News

FBI Deputy Director Resigns

The Move Goes into Effect Today

From WikipediaWASHINGTON, D.C.-FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe is leaving his position ahead of a previously planned retirement this spring. McCabe has been a frequent target of criticism from President Donald Trump. Two people familiar with the decision described it to The Associated Press on Monday. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak on the…

Winter Market is Best Time to Buy and Sell Homes

DULUTH, Minn. – During these cold winter days heading out to look at homes isn’t the ideal way to spend time. However, winter is actually just the time to purchase a new home. According to real estate experts, this is the best time to make the purchase. “They’re motivated, they’re looking for a smooth, fast and easy transaction,” said Amy…

After Years of Work, Duluth’s NorShor Theatre Reopens This Week

Coffee Conversation: Mamma Mia! Kicks of NorShor Entertainment

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s a big week for the city of Duluth as the highly-anticipated opening of The NorShor Theatre is taking place this week. After several years of work to make this a reality, performers will once again be on the stage. “It’s incredibly exciting, it’s stressful, it’s such a momentous moment. There’s so much leading up to this…

Western Wisconsin had Most Farm Bankruptcies in the US

28 Bankruptcy Cases for Farms in Wisconsin in 2017

MADISON, Wis.-Federal court data show that a Wisconsin district had the highest amount of farm bankruptcies in the country last year. Wisconsin Public Radio reports that the Western District of Wisconsin had 28 farm bankruptcy cases in 2017. The district is made up of 44 counties and includes more than half of the state’s geographic area. There are 94 federal…

Salt, the Solution to Winter’s Dangers, Threatens US Waters

Fish at Risk in Coming Decades From Road Salt

CONCORD, N.H.-Truckloads of road salt used to keep highways ice-free in the winter are starting to take a toll on the environment. Researchers say they’re finding rising salt levels in hundreds of lakes, especially in the Northeast and Midwest where sodium chloride is used most. The findings are raising fears that salting roads could put everything from microscopic zooplankton to…

Blaze Injures Firefighter in Superior

Firefighter Suffers Minor Injury Battling Blaze

SUPERIOR, Wis.-One firefighter suffered a minor injury this morning after responding to a structure fire at 2217 Lackawanna Ave. in Superior. Fire units arrived to find smoke billowing out of a detached garage. Crews extinguished the fire quickly. Damages estimates are a $5,000. The cause has yet to be determined. Categories: News, News – Latest News Tags: news fire

Rep. Jen Schultz kicks off re-election campaign

Schultz is seeking a third term as the Representative for State House District 7A

DULUTH, Minn. – DFL Rep. Jen Schultz has announced her candidacy for a third term for State House District 7A. Schultz kicked off her campaign on Sunday at Blacklist Artisan Ales in Duluth. Schultz is looking to address issues with Minnesota healthcare, tax reform, and affordable education. “I’ve built really good relationships on both sides if the isle,” Schultz said….

Inside Look at the John Beargrease Marathon Starting Line

Every musher has a different story behind their passion to race.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.-  Mushers heading out for the John Beargrease marathon say dog racing is unlike any sport. Winter along the Northshore can create the ideal conditions or make for a challenging journey. “We go out there and what happens, happens. You just kind of go with the flow, that’s what this sport is,” first time Beargrease musher Liza Dietzen…

Carrying Trail Mail in the Beargrease Marathon

The trail mail is sent in from people around the world.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.– While on the trail mushers are looking after more than just their sled team, each racer is carrying up to a dozen pieces of trial mail. Racing with the letters is another way to honor John Beargrease and his route delivering mail. The Two Harbors Postal Service, volunteers helping run the event every year. Workers say they’re…

Fly Fishing Film Tour makes a stop in the Northland

The film tour is a celebration of all things fishing

DULUTH, Minn. – The Fly Fishing Film Tour made its way to Duluth on Sunday, hosted by the Arrowhead Fly Fishers and Gitchee Gumme Trout Unlimited organizations. The tour is a celebration of all things fly fishing. “It’s an opportunity for people to come out and learn about the sport, and see some really great stories about how people fish,…

Volunteer Veterinarians Have All Eyes on Beargrease Dogs

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- The John Beargrease race is made possible by many volunteers, including nearly 20 volunteer veterinarians. The vets travel from all over to provide pre-race vet checks and ensure safety during the event. “It’s wonderful to be able to come here and work with these athletes,” head vet volunteer Gregg Phillips said. “I mean we see the couch…

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker Visits Superior

Gov. Walker addressed health care and sales tax rebate.

SUPERIOR, Wis.-  Governor walker traveled to the Northland Saturday meeting with the Republican Party of Douglas County. The Republican Party of Douglas County held its annual Lincoln Day dinner in Superior. Governor Walker spoke to on-goers addressing issues, including what he hopes for the future of healthcare. “Affirms that preexisting conditions will be covered in the State of Wisconsin,” Gov….

Inside the John Beargrease Opening Ceremony

The ceremony brings together everyone involved in the marathon, one last time before the race.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- Preparations for the annual John Beargrease Sled Dog marathon took place in Two Harbors Saturday. Saturday night’s opening ceremony sheds light on how many volunteers, sponsors, and participants it takes to make this tradition going for years to come. “Let people know that they’re involved in this race and if you ever sit down and listen to…

Man Stabbed Repeatedly; Police Believe Crime Is Random

20-year-old Male Victim Being Treated for Multiple Stab wounds; 23-year-old Male Suspect in Custody

DULUTH, Minn. – Early this morning, a man was stabbed at least twelve times in his home. Duluth Police believe the suspect entered the victim’s home through an unlocked door and began stabbing him while he was sleeping in bed. It’s believed that the suspect randomly entered the victim’s residence and the suspect and victim did not know each other….

New science building taking shape at UMD

An engineer on the project is also a UMD alum

DULUTH, Minn. – Construction on the new science building at UMD is moving along. FOX 21 got a look inside the new facility on Friday. The building features four floors with both laboratories and classrooms together in one place. UMD’s Swenson College of Science and Engineering alum Laura Hart is an engineer on the project. “It’s really cool that I…

New Police Recruits Take Part In Communication Relations Training

There are 154 sworn in officers on the Duluth Police Department.

DULUTH, Minn. – For law enforcement officers having the right training is a part of the job. Fifteen of Duluth’s newly recruited police officers are learning what it takes to build stronger relationships within the community thanks to some unique lessons. These officers are part of a type of training that goes beyond the squad car and flashing lights and focuses on communication….

Wood Stove Exchange Program Helps Protect the Environment

More than 50 percent of the heating appliances used for Project Stove Swap are manufactured in Minnesota.

DULUTH, Minn. – More and more people are exchanging their old wood stoves for newer ones that also protect the environment. Project Stove Swap started a year ago and gives homeowners incentives for upgrading their wood stoves. Energy Plus in Duluth  has a lot of customers coming in searching for a wood stove. “We’re releasing much less carbon than we…

Lake Superior Ice Festival Kicks Off

The festival will also have food vendors and ice sculptures.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – You can expect thousands to be on Barker’s Island in Superior for the Lake Superior Ice Festival. It’s day one and the atmosphere is described as electric. The snow slide will be open and pond hockey will kick off tonight. When you pick a date six months in advance you never know what the weather will be…

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland Receive “Exergaming” Kits

Seventy-five members received the kits now and the remaining 75 will receive them at a later date.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland are taking exercise and gaming to the next level. These kids are some of the first in the state to receive game kits that encourage physical activity. The kit includes a NERF ball and energy tracker. It’s called “exergaming.” “The kids get to track their points for how much…

Telemark Purchase Agreement Delayed

Interested Buyers Have Title and Environmental Concerns

HAYWARD, Wis.-Telemark Development Partners has announced it’s choosing not to move into the next phase of the purchase of Telemark at this time, due to some title and environmental concerns. The sellers of the property were notified Jan. 19, prior to the deadline for the purchase agreement. “We remain optimistic these issues can be resolved in a reasonable period of…

New District Judge Named in Virginia

District Includes St. Louis, Lake, Carlton, and Cook Counties

VIRGINIA, Minn.-Governor Mark Dayton announced today the appointment of Robert Friday as a district court judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. Friday will be replacing the Honorable Terrence M. Aronson, and will be chambered in Virginia in St. Louis County. “Mr. Robert Friday has a strong record of legal service on behalf of Minnesotans, working hard throughout his career to…

Forest Service Downgrades Twin Metals Environmental Review

Governor Makes Statement on Issue

MINNEAPOLIS-The U.S. Forest Service is downgrading an environmental review for a proposed copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota. The Forest Service says it will do an environmental assessment, rather than an environmental impact statement, on Twin Metals’ proposed project. Supporters say the mine would bring hundreds of needed jobs. Opponents fear the mining could lead to sulfuric acid and other toxic…

Circuit Training with Fitness Edge North

Fitness Edge North is Located in Hermantown at 5237 Miller Trunk Highway

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – In this week’s Active Adventures, FOX 21 Meteorologist William Seay stopped by Fitness Edge North in Hermantown to give circuit training a try. Fitness Edge North has been in business for the past 12 years. Circuit training at the facility helps customers become more physically fit through combining flexibility, balance and core strength. Click here for more information on…

Sled Dogs, Beer, Food and Fun to Kick Off Beargrease 2018

The First Beer-grease Event is Happening Friday, January 26 at Glensheen Mansion

DULUTH, Minn. – Happening tonight, the Glensheen Mansion will play host the first ever Beer-grease event. In order to kick-off race weekend, the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is teaming up with Canal Park Brewing and Glensheen Mansion. Race officials, mushers, Beargrease Board Members and Sponsors will be on site to celebrate all things Beargrease. Canal Park Brewing has brewed…

Bong Center Breaks Attendance Record

Attendance Increased by 1,600 People

SUPERIOR, Wis.-The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center’s paid admission increased by 1,627 from 2016, which is the highest increase in attendance ever for the center. “We have renewed our marketing and freshened up our programming,” said Executive Director Hayes Scriven. “I am most proud of how the military vehicle show went for us this past August. To me it really…

Humane Society of Douglas County Hosts Raffle Fundraiser

The Drawing will End on April 8, 2018 at the Dreamland Supper Club

SUPERIOR, Wisc.  – The Humane Society of Douglas County is selling raffle tickets for a 2018 Textron Off-Road Wildcat ATV, sponsored by MAC Sport and Marine. The Shelter expects this to be one of their larger fundraisers of the year. Tickets are $20. Money raised will help to benefit over 1,000 animals, finding them a forever home. The drawing will…

Report Suggests New Office for Sexual Harassment Complaints

Report Will be Addressed by Legislative Leaders Later Today

ST. PAUL, Minn.-A new state report says Minnesota’s government should establish an independent office to receive and investigate sexual harassment complaints. Gov. Mark Dayton ordered a review of the state’s sexual harassment policies in November after two state legislators were accused of sexual misconduct. Both men later resigned. The report released Friday was limited to the state’s 23 executive branch…

Weekend Spotlight: Feb. 26-28

It’s time to “Warm Up to the Brews” this Friday night.  Bent Paddle Brewing, Carmody Irish Pub, Earth Rider Brewery, Lake Superior Brewing and Moose Lake Brewing will be sampling over 15 delicious craft beers at the Rex bar.  After tasting these local beers, be prepared to dance the night away with Kind Country and Black River Revue.  Kind Country…

Some Summer Tourism Uncertainty For Irvin, Vista With Delayed Seawall Reconstruction

City Projects Seawall Project Complete After Grandma's Marathon Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s some slight uncertainty involving the summer tourism season for Duluth’s Vista Fleet and William A. Irvin. This comes as the multi-million dollar seawall reconstruction project is roughly two months behind schedule and won’t be complete until sometime mid-summer after Grandma’s Marathon weekend. Last week, the Irvin was moved away from the seawall in the Minnesota Slip…

Duluth Coffee Company and Earth Rider Join Forces

The new coffee beer can be found in Superior and Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.– Two brewers of different kinds have teamed up to create the perfect coffee beer. Earth Rider Brewery and Duluth Coffee Company released the pale ale Thursday night. Workers say told the coffee beer is created using an imperfect pale ale but made complete with the help of the Duluth Coffee Company. “Overall in the flavor you might not…

Plans Underway for New Unique Hotel

Officials say the hotel aims to attract millennials to Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.– New details are being revealed for a new hotel like no other planned for Duluth’s central entrance. The hotel is called “Tru by Hilton” it’s aimed at giving young professionals, a fun affordable place to stay.  The rooms will cost $100 a night and be smaller than an average hotel room. City officials say although there are many hotels, none…

Hundreds Partake in Northland Figure Skating Competition

The event is free and open to the public all weekend.

DULUTH, Minn.- This weekend figure skaters are hitting the ice for the 38th annual Northland Figure Skating Competition. The Duluth Figure Skating Club puts on the competition all weekend at AMS Oil Arena and the DECC. The skaters range from little ones to adults. Club coach Heather Seyfer has been apart of the club for 35 years; starting as a competitor, now…

Aerial Lift Bridge Undergoing Deck Replacement

The center sections of the bridge can last for several more years before they'll have to be replaced.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s been more than 60 years since the deck on the Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth was last replaced. Workers have started the process of replacing it again. Since the shipping season is now over this deck replacement won’t affect marine traffic, but those using the bridge will experience some delays for a while. Workers are replacing…

Trump Immigration Plan Offers Citizenship Path to 1.8 Million

Opponents say the plan lacks details and sabotages bipartisan talks

WASHINGTON (AP) – The White House says President Donald Trump is proposing to provide a path to citizenship for 1.8 million so-called “Dreamers,” younger immigrants living in the U.S. illegally. The plan is likely to get a mixed reaction on Capitol Hill. Senior White House officials are offering a preview of Trump’s immigration framework, casting it as a compromise that…

UW-Superior Launches Strategic Diversity Plan

The university introduces first Strategic Plan for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Superior has recently initiated the first Strategic Plan for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the history of the institution. The plan is designed to help the UW-Superior community achieve a diverse and inclusive campus climate. “There have been so many groups in involved,” said Jerel Benton, Senior Diversity Officer. “It’s been great. It gives…

DECC’s Newest Executive Director Shares Vision For the Future

Fuse Duluth within the Chamber went on a tour to see the sustainable practices at the DECC.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center’s (DECC) newest executive director is only four months into her role, but is already looking toward the future. Chelly Townsend says she wants to see the DECC grow as a sustainable building for everyone in the Northland. The goal is do that by continuing to follow sustainable practices. “The basic recycling, reducing and…

Proctor Hockey Arena Set To Open This Summer

The arena will be located on Kirkus Street.

PROCTOR, Minn. – This July Proctor will have a brand new hockey arena and event center. The decking is finished and the final layers of the roof are going up. Once that’s done the heating work comes next. The arena will double as a community center, that’ll have a walking track, enough room to seat 1,200 people and a community…

Superior YMCA Opens Doors During Sub-Zero Temps

"Warming center helps meet the needs of community"

Superior, Wis. – The Superior Douglas County Family YMCA now offers their facility as a warming center. The Y will be open for use as a warming station from 6am-noon on days the weather dips below 0° or the wind chill is below -25° degrees. The lobby will be available to the public, as will refreshments such as coffee, tea,…

Damiano Center Connecting Those In Need With Free Resources

Lunch was provided and about 500 people showed up over the course of the day.

DULUTH, Minn. -The Damiano Center in Duluth offered a one stop shop to help people in need. Several service providers were on hand to provide free help for homeless or low income folks who stopped by. Having these resources under one roof helps make it easier for people to get to these offices. Haircuts, foot care and winter clothing items…

Steel Workers Union Enters Into Agreement With Mesabi Metallics

Company Agrees Not to Interfere With Union Organization

NASHWAUK, Minn.-The United Steelworkers union has announced that they have entered into an agreement with Mesabi Metallics at the company’s Nashwauk taconite mining and processing site, which is still being built. The agreement will allow the USW to organize the Mesabi Metallics workers into the union without interference from the company. “The steelworkers have a long and deep history of…

Fitger’s Frozen Fundraiser Tomorrow

Event is a Fundraiser for Animal Allies

DULUTH, Minn.-Fitger’s will be hosting the annual Frozen Fundraiser for Animal Allies tomorrow (Friday). The event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. on the third floor of the Fitger’s complex in the August Fitger Room. It will feature local beers along with all sorts of savory and sweet delights. “We are super excited to partner with Fitger’s for this event….

Ice Racing to Bring Ice to Life at Annual Ice Festival

MIRA Featured at Lake Superior Ice Festival

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This weekend the ice will come alive on Barker’s Island in Superior as the Midwest Ice Racing Association riders compete. This is part of the Lake Superior Ice Festival on Saturday, January 27 from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. A-Class Rider, Brock Zychowski, stopped by FOX 21 this morning. Zychowski says the sport gives an adrenaline rush…

Vegetable Risotto with Catering By Bellisio’s

Cooking Connection: Vegetable Risotto

DULUTH, Minn. – During the winter months, a savory dish is always a great dinner choice. Bellisio’s in Canal Park offers many meals that fit that bill. For this week’s Cooking Connection, the Executive Chef of Catering By Bellisio’s, Eric Denney, showed FOX 21’s William Seay how to make a vegetable risotto. VEGETABLE RISOTTO Dice onion Smash and mince garlic…

Minnesota Agencies Report Few Hate Crimes

Several High Profile Incidents are Missing from Report

MINNEAPOLIS-A newspaper examination of last year’s hate crime reports in Minnesota found several high profile incidents missing. The Star Tribune’s study found no mention of last summer’s Bloomington mosque bombing. A November FBI report found that nearly two-thirds of the state’s law enforcement agencies reported no hate crimes in their jurisdictions in 2016. Victims, advocates and federal officials say inconsistency…

Minnesota Governor Pays $6k for Home State Super Bowl Seat

Super Bowl Will be Played Feb. 4

ST. PAUL, Minn.-Minnesota’s governor has forked over $6,000 for a ticket to his own state’s Super Bowl game. Gov. Mark Dayton expressed regret Wednesday that the Minnesota Vikings won’t play the Feb. 4 game in Minneapolis. The Philadelphia Eagles beat the Vikings Sunday to face the New England Patriots. But Dayton says he still felt obligated to attend the game…