News

Remembering the 100-Year Anniversary of the Death of Finnish Immigrant

Olli Kinkkonen was hanged in Lester Park for his acts, or lack thereof.

DULUTH, Minn.- Sept. 18, 1918 marks the supposed lynching of Finnish immigrant Olli Kinkkonen. The story goes that Olli refused to fight in World War I and there was a toss up on if he was a peaceful man refusing to fight or an outspoken anti-war advocate. A group known as the “Knights of Loyalty” labeled men who didn’t go…

Hotel Pikku Opens in Lincoln Park

One of the many newly opened editions for the Lincoln Park Craft District.

DULUTH, Minn.- Pikku means ‘small and odd,’ but the Hotel Pukku’s size and aesthetic appears to fit perfectly in the renovated Lincoln Park Craft District. The hotel was opened for guests to stay at for the first time in mid-September. With three suite style rooms, each with a living room, bedroom and bathroom and two with full kitchens, it was…

Plea For Answers In Case of Missing Duluth Woman

Over the past three years, Duluth Police have received multiple tips but none have lead to anything big

DULUTH, Minn.- Three years after Sheila St. Clair went missing in Duluth family and police are urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward. Over the past three years, Duluth Police have received multiple tips but none have lead to anything big.  48–year–old Shelia St. Clair was reported missing Septemeber 10th, 2015. Authorities believe she was planning to…

Senior Apartment Complex Held Grand Re-Opening

Heritage Apartments houses residents for seniors 62 or older.

DULUTH, Minn. – Heritage Senior Apartments held their grand re-opening today, celebrating the end to their renovation. The complex, located at 700 Commonwealth Avenue, homes one and two bedroom apartments for people 62 or older and was built 42 years ago. The renovation fixed the siding of the building, as well some other fixes to make the place better for residents….

Local Business Has Fun With Construction Traffic

Two Harbors construction is causing a back up in traffic and one local business wanted to lighten the mood.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- A local business is making light of the traffic construction is causing through town. Sweet Pea’s Gift Shop waned to make sure their store was noticed by backed up cars, so they decided to put jokes in the windows for passer-by’s to read. This was owners Randy and Katie Lancaster’s idea to keep people from getting frustrated…

Perfect Time To Go Pumpkin Picking

Now that the fall weather is on its way, local produce sellers are switching out their normal produce for more pumpkins.

DULUTH, Minn. – Well it’s starting to feel like fall out and everyone is getting ready for their favorite fall activities like apple picking, corn mazes and of course, pumpkin picking. Local roadside produce sellers are also busy preparing for these fall activities, switching out their normal fruits and veggies for more fall friendly treats like pumpkins. “Usually we get…

United Steelworkers Local 6115 Vote Unanimously for Strike Authorization

Negotiations from both sides will resume on Thursday in Pittsburgh.

VIRGINIA, Minn. – A crucial vote for the members of the United Steelworkers (USW) Local 6115. The group in Virginia is demanding an increase in their wages and better benefits. One member told me as recently as 2015 they took some concessions like wage freezes since the company wasn’t doing so well. Now that they are, members want an increase in…

Inside Look at UMD’s Media Technology Lab

The director tells us the resources are meant to spark the student's creativity.

DULUTH, Minn.- The University of Minnesota Duluth is showing off their state of the art media technology lab. From the green screen to virtual reality this MMAD lab is utilized by everyone from theatre majors to researchers. The director tells us the resources are meant to spark the student’s creativity. “Nobody else in Hollywood is doing what we are, because we’re…

Student Senate Makes National Constitution Day Known on Campus

The CSS student body government is handing out pocket copies of the constitution.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s national constitution day and the College of St. Scholastica is making a day of it. The CSS student body government is handing out pocket copies of the constitution. Organizers tell us it’s extremely important their fellow students actually know the constitution. “It sets up the foundation of our government and it impacts literally every one of our…

Survey Finds 2 Million US Teens are Vaping Marijuana

(AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)(AP) – A school-based survey shows nearly 1 in 11 U.S. students have used marijuana in electronic cigarettes, heightening concern about the new popularity of vaping among teens. E-cigarettes typically contain nicotine, but results published Monday in the journal JAMA Pediatrics mean a little more than 2 million middle and high school students have used the devices…

Couple Charged in Fatal Wisconsin Crash

Authorities say the Pair Were Drunk and Fighting

OCONTO, Wis. (AP) – Prosecutors say a woman and man were drunk and fighting in their pickup truck when they caused a fatal crash in northeastern Wisconsin. Twenty-six-year-old Kelly Crispin, of St. Paul, Minnesota, and 31-year-old Eric Soloman, of Plymouth, Wyoming, are both charged in Oconto County with homicide by intoxicated use of a motor vehicle and second-degree reckless homicide…

Sen. Johnson Says Panel Should Hear From Kavanaugh Accuser

Voting Will Take Place Later This Week

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson says the Senate Judiciary Committee should hear from a woman accusing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her when they were in high school. Johnson said in a Monday interview on WTMJ radio in Milwaukee that “this woman is willing to come forward and tell her story and…

Fall into Autumn Adventures with The Duluth Experience

The Duluth Experience is Offering a Wide List of Fall Happenings Throughout the Autumn Months

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth region offers seasonal attractions for thousands of visitors every year. Combine the amount of entertainment and adventure with beautiful fall colors and there’s certainly something for everyone to enjoy. Co-Founder and CEO Dave Grandmaison stopped by FOX 21 Local News Monday morning to chat about the upcoming events scheduled. The Duluth Experience is already thinking…

Ignite Your Taste Buds this Thursday at the DECC

The 27th Annual United Way Chili Cook-Off Happens Thursday, September 20

DULUTH, Minn. – Are you a sweet or spicy chili fan? No matter the type you favor most, there’s sure to a flavor for you at the 2018 United Way Chili Cook-Off Thursday, September 20 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. The 27th annual event is happening at the DECC. Organizers say it’s a great way to check out amateur and…

Divers Locate Body in Lake Minnetonka After Boater Missing

The Cause of Death is Unknown at This Time

ORONO, Minn. (AP) – Divers have recovered a body from Lake Minnetonka near where a boater was reported missing. The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office says the body was found Sunday near Big Island. Deputies had been searching that area for a missing boater since Saturday evening. Deputies responded to a 911 call of a boat circling in the water. When…

UMD Students Showcase Harvested Goods at Farm Fest

Every year almost 1,000 students use the Land Lab as an educational tool.

DULUTH, Minn. – Farm Fest is one of the highlights for students at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD). It’s the time for them to show off everything they’ve harvested all season. Farm Fest takes place at the UMD Land Lab. The Lab has been around for almost 10 years and one of its purposes is to teach students about agriculture….

Border Battle Celebrates Rivalries

Locals gathered at bars across the Northland, including the Reef, to watch the game.

DULUTH, Minn. – Football season brings fun, food and rivalries to fans everywhere, especially right here in the Northland this weekend for a Border Battle. The Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers squared off earlier this afternoon. Their first meeting of the year brought excitement to the fans and created rivalries within friendships. “I wish it was later in the…

UMD Students Join International Movement to Help Solve Plastic Pollution Issue

The students held their own trash and plastic clean up Sunday at Chester Park

DULUTH, Minn. – Two international organizations have been working together throughout the week to clean up parks and learn more about plastic pollution, and a group of UMD students joined the movement to learn more about the issue here in Duluth. “The Story of Stuff Project” and “#BreakFreeFromPlastic” Movement are currently working together across the world to clean up plastic…

Annual Properties Tour Highlights Duluth’s Historic Buildings

The tour also doubled as a fundraiser for the Duluth Preservation Alliance.

DULUTH, Minn. – An estimated 600 people spread out throughout Duluth as part of the 38th Annual Historic Properties Tour. A behind–the–scenes look at the NorShor Theatre in downtown Duluth was a highlight. The Duluth Preservation Alliance is behind the tour. Staff say people really enjoy walking through history. “For instance the Norshor Theatre its deep history. You know, starting as the Orpheum Theatre in the 30s and 40s…

Minnesota Amps Up Oversight For Student Loan Repayments

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Office of Higher Education has become more aggressive about taking student loan recipients to court when they fall behind on payments to keep its rates low. Minnesota Public Radio reports that the Student Education Loan Fund provides low-interest loans to Minnesota students to help bridge the gap between financial aid and the cost of education….

Wisconsin To Hit Highest Loss Of Dairy Farms Since 2013

MADISON, Wis. (AP) _ Wisconsin is on pace for losing the most dairy farms this year since 2013. The Wisconsin Public Radio reports that the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection says Wisconsin lost 47 dairy farms in August alone. The department’s figures show there were fewer than 8,400 licensed dairy producers at the beginning of this month,…

East End Family Fun Day Day In Superior

The event had lots of food, good times, and even a pet parade

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The east end of Superior knows how to have a good time. Many people came out for the family fun day there. Lots of food, good times and a pet parade. Fur babies, big and small were ready to strut their stuff. Some people come every year because of the environment for the dogs to come and…

Last Day to Score Deals at Friends of the Library Book Sale

Proceeds from the book sale support the Superior Public Library.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- It’s the second day of the Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale and many people were out to grab a deal. The shelves were filled with thousands of books of all varieties at a low price. Shoppers could fill up a bag and get as many books as they wanted for a donation of their choice. Proceeds…

2018 Walk for Thought Raising Awareness for Brain Injuries

The Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance says falls are the leading cause of brain injury.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance says falls are the leading cause of brain injury. The organization supports people and families affected by brain injuries. Its annual walk for thought event does just that. There were walks in the Twin Cities, St. Cloud and here in Duluth. For one family the Walk for Thought hits close to home…

2018 NorthShore Inline Marathon Brings in Nearly 2,000 Athletes

The 23rd annual race reached its highest number of registered athletes that its seen in years.

DULUTH, Minn. – The 23rd annual NorthShore Inline Marathon brought runners and skaters from all over the country to compete in the different races on Saturday morning. While many of the athletes enjoy the competition and exercise part of the day, they also enjoy getting the chance to share the day with their families. “So exciting, every year it’s fun…

Read to Final Four Program Begins

The Final Four will be in Minneapolis this spring, but that hasn't stopped the NCAA from kicking off the festivities early.

DULUTH, Minn.-The Final Four will be in Minneapolis this spring, but that hasn’t stopped the NCAA from kicking off the festivities early. Earlier today the UMD men’s and women’s basketball teams came to Piedmont Elementary to launch the “Read to the Final Four” program. The initiative includes free access to a library of more than 5,000 books online while also…

Cleveland Cliffs Provides Update on Projects

Chairman, President and CEO Calls Press Conference

FORBES, Minn.- In the midst of a legal battle with Mesabi Metallics, and days after suing the DNR, Cleveland Cliffs Chairman, President and CEO Lourenco Goncalves passionately talked of the company’s future plans, at a press conference today. Among the topics discussed was an update on the steelworkers’ potential strike situation. Rather than a strike, Goncalves wants to strike a…

AmeriCorps Presents at City Hall

Volunteers Introduce Themselves, Talk Future Projects

DULUTH, Minn.- The Northland’s AmeriCorps VISTA program introduced itself to the public today during a special presentation at City Hall. Local politicians and leaders met with Americorps VISTA members to learn all about what they do. If you didn’t know, VISTA–which stands for Volunteers In Service To America–is a one year commitment young people take at non-profit organizations or local government…

Emergency Response Team Revamps Place in Twin Ports

Wenck is an Environmental Consultant Company whose emergency response sector is looking to protect the Northland.

DULUTH, Minn.- A Twin Cities based company, experts in emergency response are ramping up their image in Duluth. Wenck is an environmental consultant whose response team is expanding into the Twin Ports to protect the several industries in the area. The company plans to work alongside the fire and police departments, but will focus primarily on the clean up and…

Chester Bowl Fall Fest Highlights the Changing Season

Another Fall festival is taking place in the Twin Ports.

DULUTH, Minn.- The annual Chester Bowl Fall Festival celebrates the changing of the season with art vendors, live music and activities for kids. The festival is a free event, but a suggested donation of $5 is asked for at the door to help raise money to get kids on skis and out in the snow for the Winter. Operations manager…

Superior Public Library Hosts their First Big Book Sale Since Renovation

The annual sale is a crowd favorite among the Northland!

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Friends of the Superior Public Library hosted their annual book sale! Bargains on books- paperbacks, hardbacks, CDs, DVDs, artwork and more were available for the first time since the library’s renovation. People from all over the Twin Ports, like Paul Peterson and his wife, packed the building to support an events they hope to see continue in…

Having A Stressful Day?

Try Meditation, Relaxation & Yoga With Yoga North & Brittney Merlot

DULUTH, Minn. —  Yoga North gives Brittney Merlot a stress-free night on the shores of Lake Superior in this week’s Active Adventures! Using meditation, relaxation and yoga at Brighton Beach, even this video will make you more relaxed! Give it a try! LOCATION: 4628 Pitt Street, Duluth, MN 55804 PHONE: 218-722-9642 WEBSITE: Yoga North SCHEDULE: Categories: Active Adventures, Community, Features,…

Two Dead as Florence Drenches the Carolinas

Another 20 to 25 Inches of Rain on the way

WILMINGTON, N.C. (AP) — A mother and infant in North Carolina are dead after a tree fell on their home – the first two fatalities of Hurricane Florence. The Wilmington Police Department said Friday that the two were killed when a tree fell on their house. The father was transported to a hospital for treatment. No other information was given….

Tailgating Tech Tips with Verizon Wireless

For Avid Football Fans, Verizon Wireless Wants to Offer a Few Tips to Staying Up-To-Date with Technology

DULUTH, Minn. – Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan, or simply love to tailgate once in awhile, Verizon Wireless offers a few of their best products to help you get through the long day. Verizon Wireless Solutions Specialist, Chad Fajkus, stopped by the FOX 21 Local News Morning Show Friday to share four items now on the market. Fajkus says…

Making Fun Fall Memories with Simek’s Family Farm

Simek's Family Farm Will Open Saturday, September 15

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s a sure sign fall is right around the corner. Family owned and operated Simek’s Farm is opening Saturday, September 15! Co-owner Andrea Simek says the farm is a wonderful place for both the young and the young-at-heart to enjoy a fall farm experience. The grounds include a corn maze, pick your own fall pumpkin, fresh produce,…

Edina Hospital Violated Patient Privacy

Fairview Says it has Ended the Video Practice

EDINA, Minn. (AP) – A federal investigation has found a suburban Twin Cities hospital violated the privacy rights of some patients by videotaping psychiatric evaluations in the emergency department without their knowledge. The Medicare investigation focused on a woman who was taken to the ER at Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina against her will in May 2017. The Star Tribune…

GM Recalls 1.2M Pickups, SUVs for Power Steering Problem

GM Recalled 2014 Model Year Trucks Last Year for the Same Problem

(AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File) DETROIT (AP) — General Motors is recalling 1.2 million big pickup trucks and SUVs mainly in North America because of power-assisted steering problems that have been cited in a number of accidents. GM says the power steering can fail momentarily during a voltage drop and suddenly return, mainly during low-speed turns. Such a failure increases the…

Superior Daycare Provides Flu Shots to Staff to Fight Spread to Kids

Many daycares in the Northland are noticing these flu-like symptoms earlier than previous years but it's not too early for a flu shot.

SUPERIOR, Minn.- Daycares in the Northland are already seeing flu-like symptoms and tell FOX21 this is earlier than usual. If you are young and healthy the flu may not affect your body that harshly, but by getting the flu shot it stops you from being a carrier to those who could suffer serious problems related to the flu. People over…

Civilian Bosses Take Off with 148th Fighter Wing Employees

Supervisors tour the base and take flight during a refueling mission

DULUTH, Minn. – Most service men and women employed at Duluth’s 148th Fighter Wing also have civilian jobs. When they’re gone for deployments or training, it can put stress on their civilian employers. More than five-hundred members of the 148th recently returned home after a deployment overseas. Because their civilian bosses were so understanding of their time away, the airmen…

Florence Rolls Ashore in Carolinas, Tears Buildings Apart

Top Sustained Winds Have Dropped to 85 mph

WILMINGTON, N.C. (AP) – Wind speeds are kicking up far from the coast in central South Carolina as Hurricane Florence slowly makes its way along the coast. The National Weather Service reported wind gusts of up to 21 mph on Friday morning in Columbia. That’s about 220 miles from Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, where Florence made landfall as a Category…

One Roof Opens 285th Land Trust Home

Open House for New 4-Bedroom In Denfeld

DULUTH, Minn.- A newly renovated, single-family home is now available in Duluth for low and middle-income home seekers. One Roof Community Housing, which is behind the effort, held an open house to show off the home in the Denfeld Neighborhood. This is the 285th of its kind in the Duluth Area. One Roof buys old homes and repurposes them to…

Look to 320 North, New Apartments Being Built

P&R Starts Construction on Superior's 3rd Apartment Complex

SUPERIOR, Wis.-The owners behind the newly opened Onyx Apartments in Superior are building another luxury apartment building. It’s located at 320 North F St. The complex will house 46 One Bedroom Apartments starting at about $1,200 a month. Then 36 Two Bedrooms at $1,600, and 4 Three Bedroom Apartments at $1,900 a month. “Y’know, we have other brand new apartment…

Superior School District Struggles With Bus Driver Shortage

A Website Has Been Created For Parent Feedback

SUPERIOR, Wisc- The Superior School District has now set up a website for parents to send their feedback about the school transportation system after facing backlash on issues related to the school buses. The district says that since the end of last year, six bus drivers have left the job. Three of those people left due to changes in policy….

Hibbing Man Guilty in Infant Nephew’s Death

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s a guilty verdict for Jesse Bonacci-Koski, 26, of Hibbing in the death of his 11-month-old nephew. On Thursday, the jury found Koski guilty of two counts of second-degree manslaughter. Koski left the infant home alone to go buy some drugs. A fire started in the house while he was gone, which lead to the child’s death….