News

Fourth of July In Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis.- While Duluth isn’t booming the city of Superior has been rocking. Earlier on Barker’s Island, with a bouncy house, food and fun is how some spent their day. There were even some carnival rides. The weather was nice enough for people to continue what they say is a family tradition. “Every summer we like to come out here and have our kids close to…

Fourth Fest Postponed Until July 5th

Organizers say the risk for public safety was something they couldn't ignore.

DULUTH, Minn. – Fourth Fest is changing to Fifth Fest at Bayfront Park, because of the potential severe weather. The Fourth of July has been memorable in Duluth. Thirty years ago there was a massive fireworks explosion and this year’s fourth fest is rescheduled. Bayfront Festival Park organizers tell us they were paying close attention to the forecast all weekend particularly for tonight. After…

Climber on Statue of Liberty Base After Anti-ICE Banner Hung

sic People Taken Into Custody

NEW YORK (AP) – Several people who hung a banner calling for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement from the Statue of Liberty’s pedestal on the Fourth of July have been arrested, and authorities say a person is scaling the statue’s base. National Park Service spokesman Jerry Willis says the climber was at the base beneath the statue’s foot Wednesday afternoon….

Branch Falls From 100-Year old Tree, Killing two

six Other People Were Injured in the Incident

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. (AP) – A western Illinois sheriff says the branch that fell on spectators during the Red, White, and Boom fireworks display, killing two, measured more than 8-feet around at its base and was about 45 feet long. Rock Island County Sheriff Gerald Bustos said Wednesday the branch fell from an oak tree that’s believed to be about…

Wisconsin’s top Court Suspends Judge Accused of Harassment

A Charging Decision Will Likely Come Next Week

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The Wisconsin Supreme Court has suspended a municipal judge who was arrested on preliminary charges of violating a temporary restraining order and stalking. USA Today Network-Wisconsin reports Leonard Kachinsky was booked into jail Monday then released without charge. The Supreme Court on Tuesday barred Kachinsky from exercising the powers of a municipal judge until further notice,…

Teen Climbs out car Window After Driving Into Sinkhole

The Damage was not Immediately Clear

OLIVIA, Minn. (AP) – A 16-year-old driver in Minnesota had to climb out the back window of his car after he drove into a sinkhole following heavy rains. WCCO-TV reports that the Renville County Sheriff’s Office says the sinkhole formed after a culvert under the road washed out. The driver wasn’t injured in the Tuesday accident. The driver’s grandmother, Candace…

Bayfront Fourth Fest Rescheduled due to Weather Concerns

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of the Duluth and the DECC have announced that the July 4th festivities, including fireworks, at Bayfront Park will be rescheduled to Thursday July 5th due to the high risk of thunderstorms. The “Fifth Fest” will follow the same schedule of events as usual with gates opening at 4:00 p.m. to the public and performances…

Minneapolis Officials Moving Toward Offering City ID Cards

the Mayor Supports the Ordinance

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minneapolis officials are moving closer to offering city identification cards that would be available regardless of a person’s immigration status. The Star Tribune reports the ordinance is in its early stages and would be presented to the Minneapolis City Council before the year’s end. The identification card would be available to anyone in Minneapolis above 14 years…

Lakewalk Galley Goes All Out on New Menu

Crabby Ol Bills Now Has New Owners this Summer, and the Menu has been Revamped

DULUTH, Minn. – The former Crabby ol Bills along the Lakewalk in Canal Park is now open under a new name, and fresh menu items. The Lakewalk Galley is now owned by Vista Fleet owner Justin Steinback and Lake Avenue Restaurant and & Bar owner Derek Snyder. On Wednesday morning, co-owner Derek Snyder and sous chef Steve Rantala stopped by…

Tips for Keeping Pets Calm this Fourth of July

Staff at Animal Allies Humane Society Want to Remind Pet Owners and Firework Users of the Dangers Surrounding Animals and Fireworks

Things you can do ahead of time for stressful, noisy situations: •Medication for Anxiety – prescribed by your veterinarian, this can be helpful for pets with situational or on-going anxiety issues •Securely fastened collar / harness with a Pet ID Tag •Update your ID Tag information – Has your phone number changed recently? •Microchip your pet – Even if the…

Wisconsin Department of Corrections Misses Body Camera Goal

The Report was due on July 1

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The Wisconsin Department of Corrections acknowledges it has missed a goal for providing body cameras to officers. The Legislature gave the department $591,400 to buy 200 body-worn cameras for officers in solitary confinement units at six maximum security adult prisons. But Corrections Secretary Cathy Jess acknowledged in a letter to legislative leaders Monday her department has…

UPDATE on Missing Hurley man

Tilton had Been Missing since Saturday

IRON COUNTY, Wis. – On Tuesday the Iron County Sheriff’s Office released a statement saying missing person Richard Tilton, 63, of Hurley was located in the Oma area. Authorities say Tilton was located when he was able to make his way out of the woods. According to the Sheriff’s Office Tilton had been missing since Saturday June 30, with extensive…

Fire Crews Battle Ashland Home Fire Tuesday Morning

The Cause of the Fire was Unintentional

ASHLAND, Wis. – On Tuesday morning Ashland Fire crews battled a house fire at 54595 Johnson Road. The Ashland Fire Department says the house was fully engulfed in flames when they arrived with fire coming out of the entire roof of the home. All occupants safely got out of the home and no one was injured in the fire. Authorities…

Fourth of July Holiday Travel Will Set A Record

AAA says with almost 47 million people hitting the roads and traveling at least 50 miles from hom

DULUTH, Minn. – The Fourth of July is officially tomorrow and that means the roads are becoming busier and busier with holiday travelers. Prepare to share the road with millions for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. AAA says with almost 47 million people hitting the roads and traveling at least 50 miles from home it will break a Fourth of July travel record. This…

CBD Oil Store to Open in Superior

Store sells oil derived from hemp that contains none or very small amounts of THC

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A new store in Superior will soon be selling hemp-based CBD products. CBD is said to treat everything from pain to epilepsy to anxiety and doesn’t give users a high like marijuana. Cannabidiol or CBD oil was recently approved by the FDA to treat epilepsy through a doctor’s prescription, but many users say the product derived from…

Fireworks Safety Warning for Pet Owners

Experts say if your pet is injured from fireworks, contact a veterinarian immediately.

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal experts are warning pet owners to be extra mindful as fireworks start to go off for the Fourth of July. Those loud bangs can be really stressful for pets and can even send them running away. “Have them leashed on a harness, appropriately partnered and attached to you at all times, especially if you’re out in the community watching fireworks,” said Animal Allies Development…

Attorney General Hopeful Visits Duluth

U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) currently serves as a member of congress for Minnesota's 5th congressional district.

DULUTH, Minn. – Although democratic U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison (DFL-MN) currently serves as a member of congress for Minnesota’s 5th congressional district, a position he’s held since January 2007. He has his eyes set on the role as the state’s next attorney general. Ellison was in Duluth earlier today to share why he wants to become the “people’s lawyer.” “Right for…

Butcher Shops Stay Busy During Fourth Weekend

IRON RIVER, Wis.-With many people off tomorrow, Northlander’s will certainly attempt to fire up those grills no matter what the weather conditions. Ownership from Jim’s Meat Market in Iron River said this is one of the busiest times of the year for them due to all of their out of town customers. “We get a lot of people from cabins…

Minnesota Supreme Court OKs Limited Cameras in Courtrooms

Ther Permanent Rules Represent Progress

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – The Minnesota Supreme Court has made permanent a pilot project that allows limited use of cameras in the state’s courtrooms. The high court gave its formal stamp of approval to the rules Monday. Media outlets and independent journalists still can’t provide full photo, video and audio coverage of trials. But the rules allow audio, video…

Fuel Truck Goes up in Flames in Ely

The Cause of the Fire is Under Investigation

ELY, Minn. – An Edwards Oil and Propane truck started on fire around 12:00 p.m. today in Ely. The fire happened near Sheridan Street next to the Lucky Seven. The blaze sat right next to some old propane tanks which the fire department believes were empty. Authorities say no one was injured in the fire. The cause of the fire…

Ruling Deals Setback to Proposed Power Plant in Superior

MN Power Says it Will Review the Judge's Recommendations

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – An administrative law judge in Minnesota has dealt a setback to a proposed gas-fired power plant in Superior, Wisconsin. Minnesota Power wants to join with Dairyland Power Cooperative to build the plant, saying it would provide backup for wind energy that the Minnesota utility is adding to its system. But Judge Jeanne Cochran on Monday…

Heavy Rains Lead to Flooding in Southwestern Minnesota

Home Basements Have Taken in Water

(Tad Vezner/Pioneer Press via AP)MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – A powerful downpour is washing out roads and flooding some basements in southwestern Minnesota. Lyon, Redwood and Murray counties were dealing with headaches Tuesday after an estimated 6 to 8 inches of rain fell overnight in some places. The Minnesota Department of Transportation closed highways in some flooded areas and warned travelers about…

Duluth School Board Approves ‘Resignation and Release’ Agreement With CFO

Hasler Joined the District in Fall 2016

DULUTH, Minn. – On Monday the Duluth School Board voted to approve a resignation and release agreement for the CFO/Businesses Services Director, Doug Hasler. The agreement would provide Hasler with $63,817 in financial compensation and another $12,220.92 in non-salary benefits. Hasler has 21 days to review and accept the agreement. Hasler was placed on paid administrative leave in June of…

Eyes on the Sky as Fourth Fest Inches Closer

Officials Will Make a Decision Regarding Fourth Fest by Noon on Wednesday, July 4, Weather Permitting

DULUTH, Minn. – All eyes are on the sky as forecasters have mentioned rain showers and strong storms multiple times for the forecast on Independence Day. As of Tuesday afternoon, FOX 21 Meteorologist Brittney Merlot says we should expect storms in the morning hours, and a mix of sun and clouds through the afternoon. Later into the evening, strong storms are…

65th Spooner Rodeo Event Kicks off Thursday

The Spooner Rodeo kicks off this Thursday, July 5 with the Coca-Cola Family/Youth night starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Washburn County Fairgrounds in Spooner. This year Spooner Rodeo Queen Katie Crosby and Spooner Rodeo Princess Faith Ciesielski stopped by the studio to let us know what fun events will be taking place this year at the rodeo. Here is…

Knowing Your Neighbors: KG Fireworks

South Range Fireworks, Safety Classes and $1,000 Fireworks Giveaway!

SOUTH RANGE, Wis. — In this weeks knowing your neighbors Brittney Merlot takes us to the South Range to ignite your adrenaline at KG fireworks warehouse. KG is a must stop for firework fans as you drive down HWY 2 in Wisconsin. It’s been open for 7 years with some of the biggest selections of fireworks in the area. Stock…

Wiconsin Court OKs Unconscious Drunk Drivers’ Blood Draws

Mitchell Argued it Violates his Constitutional Rights

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The Wisconsin state Supreme Court says police can legally draw blood from unconscious drunken drivers. The court ruled 5-2 Tuesday that drivers automatically consent to a blood draw when they drive on Wisconsin roads. The court found that drivers who drink themselves into unconsciousness forfeit any opportunity to withdraw that consent. The ruling stems from a…

Ex-Federal Officer Went to NYC to Sexually Abuse Girls

he Faces at Least 10 Years in Prison if Convicted

NEW YORK (AP) – Prosecutors say a former federal law enforcement officer traveled from Minnesota to New York City with plans to sexually abuse two girls. Ex-Federal Protective Service inspector Jesse Rodriguez was arrested Sunday when he showed up to meet an undercover officer posing as a mother of 8-and-13-year-old girls. Prosecutors say the 62-year-old Rodriguez brought condoms, lubricant, and…

Ditched Semi Blocks Traffic, Highway 33 now Open

Lanes Reopened Around 8:30 a.m. Tuesday Morning

photo: Cloquet Police Department FB CLOQUET, Minn. – The Cloquet Police Department issued a traffic advisory Tuesday morning on Highway 33 due to a ditched semi that was blocking both north and south bound lanes. The truck was hauling a windmill turbine blade and attempted make a U turn on Highway 33. The truck became partially ditched just north of…

Bad Weather Could Postpone Duluth’s Fourth Fest, Fireworks Until July 5

Decision Will Be Made Before Noon on July 4

DULUTH, Minn. – All eyes are on the stormy forecast as crews get ready for Fourth Fest at Bayfront Park. Festivities kick off Tuesday evening with 80s rock and roll tribute band Hairball.  Weather is not expected to damper this concert, as the performers say they will play rain or shine. But showers and thunderstorms forecast for July 4th have DECC…

Meet The Owners Of ‘Duluth Cider’ Opening Soon In Lincoln Park

The Couple Wants To Expand Palates Past Sugary, Sweet Ciders

DULUTH, Minn. – We’re taking you inside the beginnings of Duluth’s first-ever hard cider company set to open this August in the growing Lincoln Park Craft District. The husband and wife team recently moved back to Duluth from Boston where they say cideries are booming — and that there’s no better place for true cider than Duluth, as FOX 21’s…

Delta Diner Helping the Public Navigate After Flood

Delta Diner is located at 14385 County Highway H, Delta, WI 54856.

DELTA, Wis. – The Delta Diner is known for its flavorful menu and burgers on Monday but after the recent flooding it became a source of information for the community. Employees at the diner took it upon themselves to help people get from point A to point B by letting others know what roads to take and to avoid. Even after…

Parts of Wisconsin On Road to Recovery Following Severe Flooding

The estimated damage for the area is more than $8 million and Bayfield County suffered the most damage.

Mason, Wis. – A little over two weeks ago parts of Wisconsin were hit with severe flooding, that caused millions of dollars in damage. Many people in Ashland, Bayfield and Iron County are now looking ahead to see how they can get back on track. Not too long ago the sun wasn’t shining and you couldn’t see the green grass…

DNR Offers Boating Safety Tips

DULUTH, Minn.-With all the warm weather recently, many Northlander’s boats have hit the water. Local safety officials from the DNR want to remind the public that they want people to have fun, but to do it in a safe way. They say with the recent rainfall, our lakes can be especially dangerous. “When you get on a lake you are…

Seattle Bans Plastic Straws, Utensils at Restaurants, Bars

This is the First Major U.S. City to ban Straws in Food Service

(Greg Gilbert/The Seattle Times via AP) SEATTLE (AP) — Looking for a plastic straw to sip your soda? It’s no longer allowed in Seattle bars and restaurants. Neither are plastic utensils in the latest push to reduce waste and prevent marine plastic pollution. Businesses that sell food or drinks won’t be allowed to offer the plastic items under a rule…

TV Station Threats Referenced Newsroom Shootings

Arntson was Charged Monday

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – A former worker at a St. Paul television station is charged with violent threats after authorities say he brought up the mass shooting at a Maryland newspaper while talking with the station’s security director. Gene Arntson was charged Monday in Ramsey County. The complaint said the 36-year-old Arntson was fired by KSTP-TV last year over…

Minnesota AG Swanson Sues OxyContin Manufacturer

Opioid Painkiller Deaths Jumped from 54 in 2000 to 401 in 2017

Photo: Douglas Healey / Associated PressST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota is suing the major painkiller producer of OxyContin, alleging the pharmaceutical company misrepresented the medication and contributed to overdose deaths. Attorney General Lori Swanson filed the lawsuit against Purdue Pharma on Monday. It comes amid ongoing negotiations between Purdue and several states, including Minnesota. But Swanson tells the Star…

One Remains in Hospital After Lightning Strike Injuries on Madeline Island

Two Other Victims Have Been Medically Cleared

LA POINTE, Wis. – Three people were injured from a lightning strike at the Big Bay Town Park on Madeline Island early Saturday morning. According to authorities an officer responded to the call and found three victims at a tent camping site. The female victim told the officer she was struck while trying to get into her vehicle and thrown…

Honeybees Finding it Harder to eat at America’s bee hot Spot

The Study is in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

WASHINGTON (AP) – A new federal study finds bees are having a much harder time finding food in America’s last honeybee refuge. The country’s hot spot for commercial beekeeping is the Northern Great Plains of the Dakotas and neighboring areas, where more than 1 million colonies spend their summer feasting on pollen and nectar from wildflowers and other plants. Clint…

Minnesota County’s Cabin Rentals Face tax Debate

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The rental market for vacation cabins in northern Minnesota is so popular that one county may change how such dwellings are classified to ensure the tax burden is fairly distributed. The Star Tribune reports that Minnesota properties fall into one of dozens of classifications for tax purposes, but some assessors say there’s no clear category for rented-out…

Active Adventures: Stand-up Paddleboarding

Summertime Active Adventures on Lake Superior With Day Tripper Of Duluth

DULUTH, Min. — In this weeks active adventures Meteorologist Brittney Merlot tries stand-up paddleboarding with Day Tripper of Duluth Jake Boyce. Enjoy the video above for more information on this sport! If you would like to book a trip with Day Tripper of Duluth, just click the link. They also offer … KAYAK ICEBERG KAYAK BIKE SHUTTLE BIKE – MOUNTAIN…

Deadline for Filing for Child tax Rebate Fast Approaching

Parents can File Through Midnight Monday

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin residents have only a few hours left to apply for Gov. Scott Walker’s $100 per-child tax rebate. Parents can file claims on the state Department of Revenue’s childtaxrebate.wi.gov website through midnight Monday. The filing period began May 15. Claimants must have a child who was under 18 as of Dec. 31, 2017. The child had…