News

Protests Continue Against Enbridge Line 3

Pipeline Could be Approved by State in April

CARLTON, Minn.-Protesters gathered in Carlton and the Barnum areas today to express their thoughts on the proposed reconstruction of the Enbridge Line 3 pipeline. The protesters main contention was Enbridge is storing up pipelines in multiple sites across the region as they get ready to possibly reconstruct the line 3 oil pipeline. Protesters are arguing that they are storing pipes…

Education Department Urged to Resume Loan Cancellations

WASHINGTON (AP) – A government watchdog is urging the Education Department to resume the process of forgiving student loans for tens of thousands of Americans who were defrauded by for-profit colleges. In a report published Monday, the Office of Inspector General, an independent body within the education agency, recommends that the department restart “review, approval, and discharge process” for defrauded…

2 Fall Through Ice on St. Mary’s Lake

EVELETH, Minn. – Two males from Iron, Minnesota fell through the ice on St. Mary’s Lake in Fayal Township, just south of Eveleth, late Monday morning, according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. According to authorities, first responders arrived on scene, they found two men a 39-year-old, Paul Ollila, and 36-year-old Travis McDonald, clinging onto the ice in an…

3 Trump Accusers Speak Out, Call for Congressional Probe

WASHINGTON (AP) — Three women who have previously accused President Donald Trump of sexual harassment shared their stories on NBC’s “Megyn Kelly Today.” Jessica Leeds, Samantha Holvey and Rachel Crooks on Monday told of alleged harassment by Trump spanning decades. The White House called the claims false and “totally disputed in most cases.” It said “the timing and absurdity of…

Pentagon to Allow Transgender People to Enlist in Military Despite Trumps Opposition

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon is allowing transgender people to enlist in the military beginning Jan. 1, despite President Donald Trump’s opposition. The new policy reflects growing legal pressure on the issue, and the difficult hurdles the federal government would have to cross to enforce Trump’s demand to ban transgender individuals from the military. Two federal courts already have ruled…

Mining Ban Lifted on Gold and Silver in Wisconsin

Gov. Walker Signed Bill Today

MADISON, Wis.-Gov. Scott Walker has signed a bill lifting Wisconsin’s moratorium on gold and silver mining. Walker voted to impose the moratorium when he was in the state Assembly in 1998. He signed the Republican legislation Monday anyway. His spokesman, Tom Evenson, has said Walker believes mining can be done without harming the environment. Under current state law, sulfide mining…

Suspect in Savanna Greywind Death Pleads Guilty

CREWS, 38, OF FARGO, ORIGINALLY PLEADED NOT GUILTY TO CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT MURDER, KIDNAPPING AND GIVING FALSE INFORMATION TO OFFICERS.

Brooke CrewsFARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Brooke Crews, charged in the murder and kidnapping of Savanna Greywind, changed her plea to guilty. In Cass County Court this morning she plead guilty to all charges. Crews, 38, of Fargo, originally plead not guilty to conspiracy to commit murder, kidnapping and giving false information to officers. Crews is expected to be sentenced on Tuesday, January…

Minnesota, Fond du Lac Band Reach Agreement Related to 1854 Treaty

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Gov. Mark Dayton and Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Chairman Kevin Dupuis announced an agreement to manage the Band’s fishing, hunting, and gathering rights in the areas of northern Minnesota established in an 1854 Treaty. The lands within the treaty include an area in northeastern Minnesota that includes portions of Carlton, St. Louis,…

Survey Finds Medications Accumulating in Minnesota Lakes

WINONA, Minn. (AP) – Scientists have found that medications are making their way through Minnesota’s wastewater systems and accumulating in lake bottoms. The Winona Daily News reports that University of Minnesota professor Bill Arnold says a survey of Lake Pepin, Lake Winona in Alexandria, and the Duluth Harbor found 10 common antibiotics present in the sediment. All of those bodies…

Bill Would Create State-Certified Wisconsin Beer Label

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – A bill circulating in the Legislature would create a new state-certified Wisconsin beer label. To get the special designation, the beer would have to include a certain percentage of hops grown in Wisconsin. The measure comes from Republican Rep. Scott Krug, of Nekoosa. He says in a memo seeking co-sponsors that the bill is in recognition…

On Sale Now, ‘The Copper Hen Cookbook’

Duluth's Best Bread Co-Owner Robert Lillegard Has Released His Third Cookbook, 'The Copper Hen'

DULUTH, Minn. – Cooking can be difficult for many of us, whether it be finding certain ingredients or the time to perfect the best dishes, but one Duluthian is looking to eliminate the hesitation. Co-owner of Duluth’s Best Bread, Robert Lillegard first dabbled in cookbook writing when he was asked to write the first cookbook for The Duluth Grill. Since then,…

Coffee Conversation: Zenith Bookstore Offers Icelandic Holiday Tradition

In This Week's Coffee Conversation, Zenith Bookstore Owner Angel Dobrow Chats About the Jolabokafloo, or "Yule Book Flood"

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Midwest Roasters Coffee Conversation, Angel Dobrow, Owner of Zenith Bookstore, stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about their ongoing holiday event. The Icelandic tradition is traditionally called Jolabokafloo. The Zenith Bookstore in Duluth is bringing it to you by pairing books with chocolate. It’s a tradition done before the holidays and it’s…

Cleveland-Cliffs Purchases Mining Property in Itasca County

Cliffs Trying to Create New Plans for Site

ITASCA COUNTY, Minn.-Cleveland Cliffs has completed the acquisition of real estate in Itasca County from Glacier Park Iron Ore Properties. The acquisition includes a combination of undivided and whole fee interest land, along with mineral and surface leases, which are found in the Biwabik Iron Formation. In total, they have acquired 553 acres and the acreage being leased is about…

Cloquet Community Band Performs Classics

Director Carol Risdon's husband, Gene, is a part of the band and he plays the trombone.

CLOQUET, Minn. – For 16 years the Cloquet Community Band has performed its Annual Christmas Concert. It happens at the Cloquet Presbyterian Church. Guests were treated to a live performance of holiday classics. The 22 member band is made up of volunteers and retirees. This year’s band is the largest one they’ve had. “We all donate our time to the…

The Nutcracker Ends Its Season Run In Duluth

In March 2018 the Minnesota Ballet will perform Swan Lake

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Ballet performed The Nutcracker for the final time in Duluth this season at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC). The Nutcracker is quite popular. More than 1,600 people showed up for Saturday’s performance. Kristen O’Bey saw The Nutcracker years ago but decided to bring her six-year-old daughter along. Her daughter just started taking ballet and…

Zenith Bookstore Bringing You An Icelandic Holiday Experience

Different authors will also stop by for book signings during this time

DULUTH, Minn. – You don’t have to travel thousands of miles to experience an Icelandic Christmas custom. The Zenith Bookstore in Duluth is bringing it to you by pairing books with chocolate. It’s a tradition done before the holidays and it’s also known as Yule Book Flood, where you gift books and the sweet treat. When you buy a book…

Open House Shines Spotlight On Sami Culture

Sami American Culture has a 25 year history

DULUTH, Minn. – The Sami American Community consists of descendants from the indigenous people in northern Sweden, Norway, Finland and a bit of Russia. Duluth is home to the only Sami Cultural Center in North America. We’re told in northern Minnesota there’s a lot of Sami ancestry. at the Sami cultural center they want you to learn about the history…

Duluth Police Recruits Train For High-Speed Chase

Class Of 15 Recruits Is The Largest Ever For the Department

DULUTH, Minn. –  We’re taking you on the tarmac and behind the wheel as Duluth police recruits get tested during a mock high-speed chase. It’s all about learning to have full control of a police cruiser while facing so many distractions, especially on a 911 call. John Villa, 34, one of the 15 recruits – the largest class on record…

Final Day for Superior’s Christmas Market

The market is located at the Community Garden of Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Tonight concludes the Superior Christmas Market that’s based on European holiday traditions. At the eighth annual market guests could gather around the bonfire, meet friends, shop, and get food and drinks. But the recent cold weather affected the turnout today. “This week has been a little slower. Last Saturday it was phenomenal,” said Organizer Steve McDonald. “We had a lot…

Washington Studios Holiday Exhibit Highlights Local Artists

The exhibit was made up of live performances, arts and crafts

DULUTH, Minn. – Musicians, artists and painters showed what they’re made of at the 21st Annual Washington Studios Holiday Exhibit. Some of the artists featured at the exhibit live in the building and are able to work in the comfort of their own home. Beth Carpenter has lived at the Washington Studios Artists Co-Op for six years and some of…

Denfeld High School Students Sing the Sounds of Christmas

Maroon 16 was dressed in costumes from the University of Minnesota Duluth to look the part

DULUTH, Minn. -People in Gary New Duluth were in the holiday spirit at the Second Annual Sounds of Christmas. Students from Denfeld High School provided the music. The group calls themselves “Maroon 16.” The performance was held at the Gary New Duluth Rec Center, which has become a major gathering place in the community. “It’s important to have events like this to…

UWS Ends Week of Giving With Toy Drive

New this year for the Jackets Giving Back was a visit to the Lighthouse of Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – It’s the week of giving at the University of Wisconsin–Superior (UWS) and student athletes are doing their part to make a difference. After ringing bells for the Salvation Army and caroling through the neighborhoods of Superior for can goods the Yellowjackets held a toy drive. the week of giving at UWS is dedicated to community service and…

Lights go on for another year at Marcia Hales’ house

Thanks to the help of the neighborhood, Hales' lights shine for yet another season

DULUTH, Minn. – After almost not happening this year, the lights are lit and the public is invited to come check out Marcia Hales’ lights display. Marcia Hales loved looking at Christmas lights as a kid, and now her light display on park point has been a tradition for many families for several years. After announcing that last year might…

Local Sheriff Department Welcomes Four-Legged Deputy

Wesson is the fourth dog to join the St. Louis County Sheriff Office.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn.- The St. Louis County Sheriff department welcomed a four legged officer to the force. The canine is named Wesson and he’s officially ready to help out in the streets. Officers said the new team member makes the force fully staffed. Wesson is a huge asset, one sergeant explained to FOX21 how dogs have a better sense…

Duluth YMCA Decorates Underwater Christmas Tree

Swimmers between the ages of 5-13 decorated the tree

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Area Family YMCA is diving its way into Christmas decorations. The swim team had it’s holiday party. Since they are swimmers they decided to decorate the Christmas tree that’s at the bottom of the pool. The team used clothespins and glow sticks. When they weren’t decorating the tree, the team did some relays, so they…

The DECC Welcomes All For the 2017 Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show

This year's show featured the U.S. Army Experience, animal exhibit and prizes and certificates

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) is the place to be for the Fifth Annual Arrowhead Ice Winter and Fishing Show. “It’s a great show, comes once a year,” said Show Manager Chris Navrati. “It’s a national circuit show all the manufacturers are here and it’s family friendly and we hope everyone can come out.” It’s a…

Residents at Steve O’Neil Apartments Go ‘Shopping’ for Holiday Gifts

DULUTH, Minn. — ‘Tis the season for giving, and for residents at the Steve O’Neil Apartments in Duluth, the holidays can be a tough time. The apartment building in downtown Duluth offers permanent housing for families dealing with poverty and chronic homelessness. These kids are picking out gifts for their loved ones. They’re guided by students and volunteers from the…

Curriculum Changing for Biology Students at CSS

DULUTH, Minn. — Things are changing in the biology program at the College of Saint Scholastica. At this Environmental Showcase event, freshman students discuss science posters from research projects they’ve been working on this semester. Most of the projects on display are on various topics around climate change and sustainability. But the curriculum this year has changed. Rather than big…

Student Craft Show Gives Back to Local Families

The Holiday Craft Show has raised over $42,000 throughout the years.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Students at Cooper Elementary School are working to ensure local families have presents under the tree. The 14th annual Holiday Craft Show has raised $42,000 over the years. Fundraising is a school wide effort, each class creates a basket for the silent auction. Students also sell their holiday crafts. Teachers told FOX21 the event gives something to everyone….

Local Orthodontist Office asks Patients to Donate Toys

Carlson Orthodontics had patients donate toys rather than pay for the visit.

DULUTH, Minn.- It can be expensive to replace a lost or broken retainer, but a Duluth orthodontist office offered an alternative. This past year Carlson Orthodontics asked patients to bring in a present and write a story about their lost retainer in exchange for a brand new one. The presents are donated to the Duluth Police Department. “I think it’s good…

Former Amazon Analyst Gets 6 Months for Insider Trading

SEATTLE (AP) – A former Amazon analyst has been sentenced to six months in prison and a $2,500 fine after admitting he tipped off a college friend to details about the company’s upcoming first-quarter earnings report in spring 2015. Brett D. Kennedy was sentenced Friday after pleading guilty to a federal insider trading charge in September. Prosecutors said his former…

Packers’ Kendricks Charged with Possession of Marijuana

Lance Kendricks (TMZ) MILWAUKEE, Wis. (AP) – Green Bay Packers tight end Lance Kendricks has been charged with possession of marijuana stemming from a traffic stop in early September. The Journal Sentinel reports the 29-year-old Kendricks was stopped for speeding in the early morning hours of Sept. 2. Though he only received a warning for driving 81 mph in a…

Wrenshall Students Learn How to Be a Photojournalist

Star Student Program Allows a Student to Bring a Guest Each Week

WRENSHALL, Minn. – A group of twenty-one students at Wrenshall Elementary School got to see what it’s like to be a photojournalist at Fox 21. Our own photojournalist Adam Jagunich was invited to talk to the class as part of their Star Student Program, where each week a different student is able to invite an adult into class and tell…

Court: ‘Making a Murderer’ Defendant’s Confession Stands

CHICAGO (AP) – A federal appeals court has overturned a ruling that could have freed a Wisconsin inmate featured in the “Making a Murderer” series from prison. The 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Friday that police properly obtained Brendan Dassey’s confession and he should remain behind bars. The judges were sharply divided, voting 4 to 3 that Dassey’s…

2 Democrats: Minnesota Governor’s Top Choice Mulling ’18 Run

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton’s preferred appointee to fill Sen. Al Franken’s Senate seat, Lt. Gov. Tina Smith, is considering also running for the seat next year, as Dayton is being pressured by top Democrats in Washington to appoint more than a mere caretaker, according to Democrats familiar with the discussions. Franken said Thursday he would…

Eau Claire Lawsuit Could Impact Foxconn, Other Developments

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The Wisconsin Department of Justice’s solicitor general is warning a lawsuit challenging an economic development project in Eau Claire could “imperil” the $10 billion Foxconn complex in Racine County and other ventures in the state. The state wants in intervene in the lawsuit filed on behalf of some Eau Claire taxpayers who say the city abused…

Partisan Divide Deepens Over Walker Investigation

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The deep partisan divide over the secret investigation into Gov. Scott Walker’s recall has reignited in the face of an investigatory report released this week. The report from Republican Attorney General Brad Schimel recommends that those behind seizing personal emails from scores of Republicans across the state and not keeping them secure be held in contempt….

Construction Plans Set for Cloquet Avenue

City officials said lanes will remain open throughout the construction.

CLOQUET, Minn.- The construction plans for Cloquet Avenue are finalized, making it more pedestrian friendly. The two mile long stretch hasn’t been worked on in 20 years. The top two inches of the road will be replaced with new asphalt.  Improvements are planned for the sidewalk corners to be extended, at the intersection between 9th and 13th street. This will shorten the…

Eskimo Ice Fishing Gear at the DECC

The Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show will Include Eskimo Fishing Gear

DULUTH, Minn. – The annual Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter show is kicking off Friday and will run through Sunday. Eskimo Ice Fishing Gear will be on hand to feature exhibitors offering one-of-a-kind products that won’t be found at any retail store. Event organizers invite everyone in the Northland to take advantage of show specials at unbelievable pricing. The crew…

Pawlenty Considering Running for Franken Seat

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty says he’s considering running for Sen. Al Franken’s U.S. Senate seat. The Republican governor and one-time presidential candidate insisted Friday that he’s still “politically retired.” But Pawlenty would be a prized recruit in 2018 for Republicans hoping to captialize on Franken’s resignation amid a cloud of sexual misconduct allegations. Pawlenty…

Regulators Ask Enbridge to Tweak Pipeline Environment Review

A Vote on the Enbridge Line 3 Could Come in April

ST. PAUL, Minn.- Minnesota’s utility regulators have rejected a state environmental review of Enbridge’s controversial oil pipeline across northern Minnesota. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has determined the Environmental Impact Statement for Enbridge’s proposed Line 3 pipeline is inadequate, though its concerns weren’t major. The Star Tribune reports the commission has directed the Minnesota Department of Commerce, which conducted the…

Active Adventures: Positive Energy Outdoors Winter Camp

Winter Camps will be Available for Children in December, January and February

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Active Adventures Steph Love with Positive Energy Outdoors stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about upcoming winter camps. Positive Energy Outdoors looks to encourage people and animal powered exploration of the outdoors. Winter Break Day Camp will give children three days to explore and play outdoors. In addition to snowshoeing and learning…

Trump Signs 2-Week Spending Bill to Avoid Shutdown

WASHINGTON (AP) – President Donald Trump has signed a spending bill to avoid a government shutdown and keep the federal government running through Dec. 22. The president signed the two-week spending bill at the White House after the House and Senate acted to prevent a government shutdown this weekend. The White House and congressional leaders are negotiating a longer-term agreement….

St. Louis River Alliance to Host Annual Open House

Multiple Organizations will be on Hand for the "Seasons of the St. Louis RIver" Open House Tuesday, December 12

DULUTH, Minn. – The St. Louis River Alliance is pleased to be putting on their “Seasons of the St. Louis River” photo contest celebration and open house Tuesday, December 12 from 4:30 until 6:30p.m. The event will happen in the Barker’s Island Great Lakes Ballroom (300 Marina Drive, Superior). The open house is free and open to the public. Those…