Morning Update 1-9-19
Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, January 9, 2019
Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, Headlines, Local News, morning update, weather
News
GoFundMe Page Set Up For Park Point Attack Victim In Coma
DULUTH, Minn. – The family of a Park Point resident who is in a coma after being violently attacked in his own home during a burglary is asking for help with growing medical bills. 70-year-old Larry Watczak’s family has set up a GoFundMe account to raise the funds. Watczak’s son, Erik, told FOX 21 that an intruder or intruder came…
Duluth Man Gets 8-Plus Years in Prison For Hermantown Shooting
DULUTH, Minn. – A Duluth man accused of shooting a woman outside a Hermtantown hotel in August of 2018 is headed to prison for more than eight years (98 months). Benny Urrutia Jr., 21, pleaded guilty to felony first-degree assault in October. He shot the woman outside the Econo Lodge on Haines Road. She survived but suffered organ damage. Categories:…
Winter Rover Program Gets Kiddos Outside For Learning & Fun!
Great Outdoors: Lake Superior Estuarium Hosts 2 Free Events At Barkers Island For Preschoolers & Kindergarteners
SUPERIOR, Wisc. — The Winter Rovers Program brings kiddos ages 3-7 together outside to learn! It’s like an old fashioned play date hosted by the Lake Superior Estuarium. “We are just trying to connect them to the community in the area and then also get them outside.” explained intern Megan Hogfeldt. “Show them some fun things that they can do…
Ice Rinks Ready to Go in Superior
Outdoor rinks are open in Superior.
SUPERIOR, Wis.-Outdoor rinks are open in Superior. A total of seven rinks opened up this week and will continue that way until temperatures warm up. Parks and rec staff told us the warm temperatures affected setting up the rinks, along with the lack of snow in Superior. “A lot of it was just a lack of snow starting off ……
Next Generation of Workers Prepare for Future
Students network and learn about potential career paths at Greenway High School.
COLERAINE, Minn.- When we’re young, we’re all asked the same question: What do you want to be when you grow up? But not every student at Greenway High School had an answer, so the question hits a little close to home. “If a student knows their pathway in eighth or ninth grade or maybe even an interest, that’s going to help…
Homeowners Should do Research before Hiring an Ice Dam Removal Company
Low steam pressure is the best practice.
DULUTH, Minn.- During this time of year there are many companies that advertise their service to get homeowners to work with them on their ice dam problems, but you need to be careful when picking someone for the job. An ice dam is a block of ice that forms on the roof of a home. It builds up…
Second Homicide in Two Weeks Leaves Hibbing Anxious
Families Start Locking Doors, Looking After Kids Outside
HIBBING, Minn.- The city of Hibbing is on edge after Hibbing Police make three arrests in the suspected murder of 33-year-old Joshua Lavalley of Aurora. Formal charges are pending against two men, 18 and 20, as well as a 17-year-old female all from Hibbing. Meanwhile residents, especially those who exercise on the Mesabi Trail, are shaken up. “We go running…
Local Church in Duluth Becomes Dementia Friendly
Hillside United Methodist Churh has shorter services for people living with Dementia.
DULUTH, Minn.- About every 60 seconds someone in the United States develops dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Now a Duluth organization is working to make the community more aware of the disease. Dementia friendly Duluth has worked with multiple Northland organizations in the past to raise awareness for dementia They are now taking aim at local churches including…
Evening Update: 1-8-2019
A look at the latest local news and weather forecast
Categories: News, News – Latest News
Mayor Gives Annual Chamber Speech
It’s a new year and new challenges await the city of Duluth.
DULUTH, Minn.-It’s a new year and new challenges await the city of Duluth. Mayor Emily Larson held her annual Chamber of Commerce speech today where she said the city has been dealt some blows during the past year, including all the damage on the Lakewalk, but the city is on the rise. She pointed to the Northland economy as one…
Douglas County Anticipates Big Anniversaries in 2019
Northland Uncovered: The Douglas County Historical Society is preparing for the big anniversaries coming in 2019.
SUPERIOR, Wis.- Douglas County Historical Society is busy at work preparing for 2019 in honor of its big anniversaries. “It’s important to look at what we did in the past to maybe not make some mistakes in the future,” DCHS business manager Jon Winter said. In 2019, the city of Superior will have plenty to look back on. 3 major…
Many Members of Minnesota Delegation to Donate Shutdown pay
MINNEAPOLIS – Several members of Minnesota’s congressional delegation say they’ll donate their pay to charity during the partial federal government shutdown. Reps. Pete Stauber, a Republican, and Angie Craig, a Democrat, said Monday they would donate their salaries during the shutdown . Stauber plans to donate his pay to the Domestic Abuse Intervention Programs in Duluth. Craig says she’ll donate…
Minnesota Twins to Retire Mauer’s No. 7 on June 15
More Details to be Announced Later
MLBMINNEAPOLIS – The Minnesota Twins have set the date for retiring Joe Mauer’s No. 7 jersey. The Twins announced Tuesday that Mauer’s number will be retired in a pregame ceremony at Target Field on “Joe Mauer Day” on Saturday, June 15. The event will take place before the Twins’ 6:10 p.m. game against Kansas City. More details will be announced…
UPDATE: Three Arrested in the Murder of Aurora man
This is an Active Investigation
HIBBING, Minn. – Authorities announced Tuesday afternoon that three people have been arrested in the murder of 33-year-old Joshua Robert Lavalley. According to Hibbing Police an 18-year-old male and 20-year-old male were arrested Monday night and booked in the St. Louis County Jail. A 17-year-old female was arrested on Tuesday. Police were called to the Mesabi Trail east of Kerr…
Democrat Hortman Elected House Speaker
Hortman was Elected House Speaker
(Twitter)ST. PAUL, Minn. -The 2019 Minnesota Legislature is in session. The House and its new Democratic majority were called to order around noon Tuesday, while the Senate, where Republicans hold a two-vote majority, convened soon afterward. The opening day floor sessions were devoted to formalities and organizational matters, including the election of Democrat Melissa Hortman as House speaker. Dozens of…
UPDATE: Teen Arrested in Possible Connection to Mesabi Trail Homicide
The is an Active Investigation
HIBBING, Minn. – According to a recent StarTribune article, authorities have arrested an 18-year-old male on suspicion of second degree murder in the death of a man found on the Mesabi Trail. Police were called to the Mesabi Trail east of Kerr on Sunday afternoon after a snowmobiler came upon the body and called 911. Authorities determined the male to…
Midday Update 1-8-19
Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather
Adventure Awaits with The Duluth Experience this Winter
Dave Grandmaison with The Duluth Experience Talks About Upcoming Winter Excursions in the Northland
DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Experience offers a wide variety of unique adventures for every season in the Northland. This winter, Co-Founder and CEO of The Duluth Experience, Dave Grandmaison, is excited to share a new Curling and Brews Experience. This adventure allows thrill seekers the opportunity to learn how to curl, then enjoy a great local brew from Ursa…
2019 Edition of the Minnesota Legislature Convenes at Noon
Dem Leaders Will Unveil First 10 Bills Wednesday
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Democrats will take control of the Minnesota House when the 2019 Legislature convenes at noon. Democrats gained 18 seats in the November elections to win the House with a 75-59 majority. Senate Republicans hold a narrow two-seat majority going into the session. Their leaders plan a news conference Tuesday morning to unveil their first five bills…
Morning Update 1-8-19
Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, News, weather
Trump to Take his Case to Build Wall to Prime-Time Audience
The Speech Will Take Place at 9:00 p.m. ET Tuesday
WASHINGTON – With no breakthrough in sight, President Donald Trump is set to argue in a prime-time address that a “crisis” at the U.S.-Mexico border requires the wall he’s demanding before ending the partial government shutdown. Trump’s speech on Tuesday night will be followed by his visit Thursday to the southern border. White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders tweeted…
Coast Guard Commences Annual Ice-Breaking Operation
Various Waterways may Close in Coming Weeks
SAULT STE MARIE, Mich – An annual ice-breaking effort is starting on waterways in and around northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Sault Ste. Marie says Operation Taconite commenced Monday in response to expanded ice growth in commercial ports along western Lake Superior and the St. Marys River in the eastern Upper Peninsula. Operation Taconite…
Grant Awarded to CASDA for Victims with Pets
A 12,000 grant will cover food and vet costs for foster family.
SUPERIOR, Wis.- A grant for More than $12,000 was awarded to the Center Against Sexual and Domestic Abuse for their Twin Ports Pet Housing Program geared towards victims with pets. Studies show about 50% of domestic violence victims reported delay leaving their abuser in fear of their pets being harmed. While the victims find permanent housing, their pets will…
Minnesota Remembers Longtime Political Leader Tom Rukavina
DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota is remembering the life of longtime Minnesota politician and Northland leader Tom Rukavina who particularly always fought hard for Iron Range workers. The 68-year-old from Virginia died Monday after a battle with leukemia. Rukavina, who was known for his passion and feistiness at times, served on the Minnesota House of Representatives for 26 years. He most…
Knowing Your Neighbors: Warming Up the Homeless
Ruth House Opens as Warming Center
SUPERIOR, Wis.- As the frigid air of night sets in, the question of where to sleep enters the minds of the homeless in Duluth and Superior. Places like CHUM or Solid Rock often fill up quickly, leaving them with almost no options. Until now. The Ruth House in Superior is offering warmth, and care, to anyone who needs it during Northland…
Cloquet Public Library Continues Towards Expansion
The library is working to get the funds it needs for the project
CLOQUET, Minn.- A central hub for the Cloquet community is doing its best to get a makeover. The public library is working hard to get the money it needs to invest in an expansion project almost a decade in the making. A seven thousand square foot expansion would cost roughly $2 million dollars. The library previously received a grant of $784…
Fourth Suspect in William Grahek Murder Sentenced to Jail
Judge to Davenport: You Deserve More Than a Life Sentence
DULUTH, Minn.- Another suspect has been sentenced in the homicide of UMD student William Grahek. 23-year-old Deandre Davenport was given a mandatory life sentence, with possibility of parole in 30 years. Last month, Davenport was convicted of two counts of first degree murder and one count of intentional second degree murder. Davenport took part in the fatal shooting of Grahek…
Tax Refunds Will Be Processed Despite Government Shutdown
NEW YORK — The Trump administration said on Monday that despite a prolonged partial government shutdown the Internal Revenue Service would still send out tax refunds, according to FOX Business. The White House Office of Management and Budget announced the decision in order to make the shutdown as “painless as possible” for citizens, in the event it carries on into tax season….
Evening Update: 1-7-2019
A look at the latest local news and weather forecast
Categories: News, News – Latest News Tags: duluth, News
Northlanders React to Unusual January Temperatures
Some love the warm January weather, some do not.
DULUTH, Minn.- Winter lovers may not be enjoying the warm January and almost no one seemed to enjoy Monday’s slushy mix. Canal park attracted just a handful visitors who braved the fog Monday morning. One Duluthian, out to birdwatch for a rare Alaskan seagull, said he’s disappointed in the lack of birds out because of the temperatures, but he’d rather feel…
January is Proclaimed Trafficking Awareness Month in the Northland
Minnesota ranks high in the human trafficking cases across the nation.
DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesota ranks high nationally in human trafficking cases making events like this community gathering important to build awareness. The event began with a Red Shawl ceremony to honor victims and survivors of human trafficking. It was followed by remarks from several local organizations that work to prevent trafficking in the Northland. One big goal is informing and…
Update Planned Next Week in Case of Missing Wisconsin Girl
Next Week Will Mark 90 Days Since the Abduction
BARRON, Wis. – Authorities in Barron, Wisconsin, are planning to provide an update on their investigation into the apparent abduction of a 13-year-old girl whose parents were killed. Jayme Closs has been missing since her parents, James and Denise Closs, were found fatally shot in their home on Oct. 15. Barron County Sheriff Christ Fitzgerald says next week will mark…
Wisconsin Baby Sitter Charged With Homicide in Baby’s Death
Tietsort Tried to Hide the Death From the Mother
WAUSAU, Wis. – A Wisconsin baby sitter accused of killing a 2-month-old boy has been charged with first-degree intentional homicide. A criminal complaint filed Friday says 28-year-old Marissa Tietsort of Wausau caused the infant’s death in October, then put him in a snowsuit and car seat and let his mother pick him up – without telling her the child was…
Walz Calls for Education, Health Care Investment
Walz Spoke at the Fitzgerald Therater in St. Paul
ST. PAUL, Minn. -New Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is using his inaugural address to stress the need for better education and health care for everyone. Walz spoke at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul after taking the oath as Minnesota’s 41st governor since statehood. Walz told the crowd of dignitaries and supporters that disparities in the state’s educational system are…
Davenport Sentenced to Life in UMD Student Murder Case
DULUTH, Minn. – A Duluth man found guilty of first degree murder in the fatal shooting of a UMD student has been sentenced to life in prison. Deandre Davenport, 23, was sentenced on Monday to a mandatory life sentence with parole possible after 30 years. Davenport was found guilty on December 28 first degree murder while committing a burglary, first…
Evers Calls for Rejection of ‘Tired Politics’
Evers Gave Inauguration Speech Monday
(AP Photo/Andy Manis)MADISON, Wis. – Newly sworn-in Gov. Tony Evers is calling for a rejection of “the tired politics of the past” in his first speech as Wisconsin governor, saying “we’ve become content with division.” Evers delivered his inauguration speech Monday at a packed Capitol rotunda ceremony attended by five former governors and other dignitaries. Evers says the people of…
Authorities Investigating Suspicious Death in Hibbing
The Death Happened Sunday Evening
UPDATE: Authorities say they are investigating a homicide that occurred Sunday on the Mesabi Trail in Hibbing. A snowmobiler called 911 after finding a male on the snowmobile trail. Officers determined the male to be deceased and has been identified as 33-year-old Joshua Robert Lavalley, of Aurora. The Hibbing Police Department is conducting the investigation with assistance from the Minnesota…
Tom Rukavina Passes Away After Battle With Cancer
DULUTH, Minn. – St. Louis County Commissioner and former State Representative Tom Rukavina has passed away at the age of 68. According to MPR News, Rukavina had been battling leukemia and died Monday morning. DFL Chairman Ken Martin and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar released the following statements Monday afternoon: DFL Chairman Ken Martin statement: “I’m terribly saddened to learn about the…
Minnesota DNR to Have First Female Commissioner
Strommen was Appointed on Thursday
MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources is getting its first female commissioner. The Star Tribune reports that 46-year-old Sarah Strommen was appointed to the lead the agency Thursday. Strommen has held high-ranking positions at environmental advocacy groups Friends of the BWCA and Minnesota Land Trust. She was with the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources before joining the…
BANFF Mountain Festival Brings Films from Around the World to Duluth
BANFF showcased some of the best outdoor films they had to offer.
DULUTH, Minn.- Among several stops on its world tour, the BANFF Mountain Film Festival made a visit to the Northland to showcase award winning films from around the world. Duluth is one of the festival’s biggest venues for more than a decade. Over four thousand people attended the two day event at DECC Symphony Hall. BANFF was hosted by Duluth…
Bakeries See Drop in Sales at the Start of the New Year
Positively Bakery is just one business to fall victim to Winter trends.
DULUTH, Minn.- You may think the holidays and Winter weather would cause an increase in the purchase of baked goods. It’s quite the opposite at one Duluth bakery who says the new year is usually a difficult time for them. Positively Bakery is opened year round but sees less than half the average daily sales during Winter months than during…
Midday Update 1-7-19
Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, January 7, 2019
Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, Viktoria Capek, weather
Coffee Conversation: Duluth Wedding Show 2019
Wedding Bells are Ringing as Ticket Sales Continue for the Duluth Wedding Show Saturday, January 12, 2019
DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Wedding Show, the area’s premier wedding planning event, hosts its 31st annual show at the DECC on January 12, 2019 with over 140 exhibitors and one of its newest enhancements, the ULTA VIP lounge. “The Duluth Wedding Show sees over 2,000 attendees each year,” said show producer, Tracy Lundeen. “We added the VIP Lounge in…
Morning Update 1-7-19
Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, January 7, 2019
Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, crime, FOX 21, Headlines, Local News, morning update, Park Point, weather
One Injured in Bayfield County Snowmobile Crash
There is no Update on his Condition
BAYFIELD COUNTY, Wis. – According to the Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office a 14-year-old male was injured on Sunday following a snowmobile crash in Drummond Township. Great Divide Paramedics, Drummond Fire Department, and Bayfield Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a call of a snowmobile accident on North Delta Road around 3:20 p.m. According to authorities the male was going too fast for…
Hundreds Without Power due to Monday Morning Storm
Crews are Working to Restore Power to Customers
UPDATE: Minnesota Power says power has been restored to all customers. The power outage was cased by a snowplow backing into a transformer near 40th Avenue West. DULUTH, Minn. – According to the Lake Country Power Outage map there are still 575 customers without power Monday morning. As of 9:00 a.m. crews were dispatched and working to restore power to…
Walz Prepares to Take Oath as Minnesota’s 41st Governor
Walz Takes Over From Dayton
(AP Photo/Jim Mone)ST. PAUL, Minn. – Tim Walz is preparing to take the oath to become Minnesota’s 41st governor since statehood. The Democratic former congressman from Mankato says he’s ready to hit the ground running after Monday’s ceremonies at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul. He’s already named all but one of his state agency heads. Minnesota’s other constitutional officers…
1-7-19 Closings and Delays Due to Winter Weather
Closings and Delays Received by FOX 21 Local News for Monday, January 7, 2019
Aitkin Public Schools – Closed Barnum Schools – Closed Bessemer, MI Area School District – Closed Birchwood School District – 2 Hour Delay Carlton Schools – Closed (* No AM or PM preschool) Cook County School District ISD 166 – Closed Cloquet Schools – 2 Hour Delay Deer River Schools ISD 317 – 2 Hour Delay East Central School District ISD 2580…
Family of Park Point Attack Victim Left in Coma Speaks Out; Police Announce Arrest
Family Of Larry Watczak, 70, Says Police Are Downplaying The Crime to the Public
DULUTH, Minn. – The Park Point resident who was violently attacked during a burglary in his home Jan. 2 is 70-year-old Larry Watczak, according to his son Erik Watczak. This comes as police announced an arrest Sunday night of a 30-year-old male suspect. Erik says his father remained in the hospitalized Sunday night in critical condition and has not come…
