News

Five St. Louis County Roads Closed Due to Flooding

County Road 338 (Aurora Road) south of the Townline Road (Photo: St. Louis County Public Works) ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn. – Heavy rain overnight has caused several County Roads in the area near Palo, Markham, and Makinen to flood. St. Louis County Public Works has announced the temporary closure of these roads until high waters recede: County Road 338 (Aurora…

Minnesota State Fair Already has a 2018 Concert Booked

FOX 9 - KMSP

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. (KMSP) – It hasn’t even been two weeks since the 2017 Minnesota State Fair wrapped up, but there’s already a Grandstand headliner for the 2018 State Fair concert series. One Direction alum Niall Horan will play the Grandstand on the Fair’s opening night. Thursday, Aug. 23. Tickets go on sale later this month, at 10 a.m. on Sept. 22 ($59…

Wayzata Policeman Remembered as Officer with Big Heart

Officer Mathews and his wife and son. (Courtesy Wayzata PD) PLYMOUTH, Minn. (AP) – A Wayzata policeman who was fatally struck by an unlicensed driver was eulogized as a friendly and conscientious officer. Hundreds of law officers from across Minnesota turned out Thursday for the funeral of 47-year-old William Mathews in Plymouth. Mathews received full honors, as he had requested…

UK Raises Terror Alert Level to ‘Critical

This is an image made from video showing burning items in underground train at the scene of an explosion in London, Friday. (Sylvain Pennec via AP) LONDON (AP) – British officials have raised the country’s terrorism threat level to ‘critical’ – meaning another attack is expected shortly. Prime Minister Theresa May acted on the recommendation of the Joint Terrorism Analysis…

Search for Perpetrators of Bomb on London Subway, 29 Wounded

JILL LAWSON - THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

A police forensic officer stands beside the trail, at left, where an incident happened, that police say they are investigating as a terrorist attack at Parsons Green subway station in London. (AP) LONDON (AP) — A homemade bomb planted in a rush-hour subway car injured 29 people in London on Friday, sparking a huge manhunt for the perpetrators of what…

Routine Bridge Inspections Scheduled in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Ramp closures will take place on Monday, Sept. 18 and Tuesday, Sept. 19 as Minnesota Department of Transportation crews work to conduct routine bridge inspections. Temporary ramp closures will include Sept. 18 – northbound I-35 to eastbound Highway 535 ramp will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 19 – southbound I-35 to eastbound Highway…

Motorcyclists Gear Up for Fall Flood Run This Weekend

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Motorists are urged to use extra caution this weekend along the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers as thousands of motorcyclists take to the streets for the Fall Flood Run. As many as 30,000 riders are expected to travel between the Twin Cities and Winona on Saturday, Sept. 16. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is asking riders…

Duluth Named Least Stressed City in America

Adam JagunichBayfront Park, Duluth, MN DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth has been named the Least Stressed City in America by smartasset.com. Smartasset analyzed data for 512 cities in the country. Nine factors were considered when analyzing the cities including, average work week, average commute times, percent of residents getting sufficient physical exercise, density of entertainment establishment, unemployment rate, bankruptcy rate, housing costs…

Cloquet Middle School Shows Off New Digs

Open House Held For The Public

CLOQUET, Minn. Cloquet Middle School showed off their $40 million facility Thursday. Hundreds made their way to check out the new school. The city broke ground on the school back in April of 2016 after the referendum was passed in 2015. The school has all the newest technology including 53 smart boards and a multipurpose media center. “The peripheral stuff…

Enbridge Protestors Arrested In Superior

Blockade Set Up Prevented Construction Workers From Working

SUPERIOR, Wis. Protestors hoping to keep Enbridge workers from getting into their construction site on the line 3 replacement project Thursday morning are now in trouble with the law. In a dramatic scene, several protesters were arrested Thursday in Superior. One has been charged with disorderly conduct during the incident while three others were booked for resisting arrest and trespassing….

Duluth Library Foundation Hosts Fundraiser for Northland Children

DULUTH, Minn. – On Saturday, September 16 from 6:00 – 9:30 p.m., the Duluth Library Foundation will host their 6th Annual Learning and Libations at the Library. This event consists of food, fun, entertainment, along with dazzling conversation with the best and brightest of Duluth. From a silent auction to chats on human genetics and technological advances, staff and volunteers…

Hundreds Flock to Hawk Ridge for Annual Fall Migration

Organizers Expect the Great Fall Migration to Happen this Saturday, September 16 at Hawk Ridge Observatory in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Happening Saturday, September 16, hundreds will gather at Hawk Ridge Observatory in Duluth to see the fall migration of birds. Visitors from as far away as Sweden are known to come for the annual event. Different species will be making their way south as cooler temperatures push into the Northland. Organizers say the weekend of events is…

Moving to the Music with Sterling Silver Dance Studio

In This Week's Active Adventures, Meteorologist William Seay Practices His Dance Moves with Sterling Silver Studio in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – In this week’s Active Adventures, FOX 21’s William Seay tackles the dance floor with Sterling Silver Dance Studio in Superior. The friendly staff taught William a few basic moves to the music, and from there, the rest was history. The crew rehearsed a short routine, and told William he was on his way to becoming a professional….

Enbridge Employees Help Habitat For Humanity

Enbridge Employees Help Habitat For Humanity

Enbridge employees got out of the office and outside Thursday for a good cause. Employees helped out at six different sites for Habitat for Humanity in Duluth and Superior. Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that mobilizes volunteers and community partners in building affordable housing to break the cycle of poverty. “I love the opportunity that Enbridge gives us…

Duluth Police, Fire Unions Against Mayor Larson’s Proposed Budget Cuts

Departments Face A Combined $711,800 Cut With Record Calls For Service

DULUTH, Minn. – The clock is ticking. Duluth fire and police departments are facing a $711,800 combined budget cut proposed by Mayor Emily Larson – a cut the unions believe is putting lives at serious risk. It’s been one month since Larson released her 2018 budget proposal with a total of $2.1 million in cuts. And since then, the public…

UW-Superior’s Lake Superior Research Institute Celebrates 50 Years

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin Superior’s Lake Superior Research Institute will celebrate 50 years with a free conference featuring keynote speaker Alexandra Consteau. “This is exciting time to celebrate 50 years of hard work by an environmental organization that is largely funded by extramural funds,” said Dr. Matthew TenEyck, director of Lake Superior Research Institute (LSRI.) “The celebration…

New Trail Opens in Lincoln Park

Trail Leads to Lincoln Park Middle School

DULUTH, Minn.-A new portion of a traverse trail was completed in the Lincoln Park neighborhood today. A ribbon cutting was held earlier today, for the trail that will be connected to the Lincoln Park Middle School. The goal is to encourage youth to explore the trail system and possibly use it as a commuter route. “I think this is a…

Winter Gear Already Hitting Store Shelves

Local Business Says This is the Best Time of the Year to Sell Skis

DULUTH, Minn.-After temperatures reached 80-degrees yesterday, the Northland will be hit with a dose of reality soon. We are getting very close to feeling that fall chill on our skin and local businesses are already getting out their winter gear. One we spoke to today, says now is the time to get your winter gear. “If you are in the…

Volunteers Work to Count Pedestrians and Bikers in Duluth

Will Help Determine Course of Action for Future Developments

DULUTH, Minn.-A step was taken today, to determine how to make the city of Duluth more bike and pedestrian friendly. Dozens of volunteers took to the streets to count just how many people are using the Duluth’s walkways and bike routes. Organizers say the data will be quite useful. “This will kind of give us; the city planners and the…

Epicurean Has New Home

The Business Moved to Superior in January

SUPERIOR, Wis.-The business Epicurean has moved its headquarters to Connors Point in Superior. The business makes a variety of kitchen tools and cutting boards. The new 60,000 square-foot facility actually opened in January, but renovations were recently completed at the new site. The new building will allow the business to expand which means they will now have a factory outlet…

Little Foresters Experience New Cabin Classroom

The Secret Forest Playschool Raised Funds for Months Before Building the Cabin Classroom

DULUTH, Minn. – A group of Northland youngsters now have the chance to enjoy their unique new classroom. After months in the making, the doors are now open at the Secret Forest Playschool’s Cabin Classroom. Founded five years ago, Owner Meghan Morrow utilized a space in the East Ridge Community Church until the congregation decided to expand on the property….

Biracial Boy Nearly Hanged by Teens

Photo courtesy Cassandra Merlin CLAREMONT, N.H. (AP) – More than 100 people, holding hands and singing “We Shall Overcome,” gathered at a park to offer support to the family of an 8-year-old biracial boy who was nearly hanged by a group of teenagers. The boy’s grandmother said the teens taunted him with racial slurs on Aug. 28 in the mostly white town…

Hermantown Community Church Hosts Block Party for Harvey Victims

Hermantown Community Church Hosted Block Party

DULUTH, Minn. As millions continue to try and get their lives back together after Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the Northland continues to show their support. Another benefit for the victims of Hurricane Harvey was held by the Hermantown Community Church. Hundreds showed up Wednesday night at the church to show their support for the victims of Hurricane Harvey Lead pastor…

Grant Hart, of Pioneering Indie Rock Band Husker Du, Dies

Grant Hart (left) and Bob Mould (right) Photo courtesy of Bob Mould/Facebook. ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Grant Hart, the drummer and vocalist for pioneering indie rock band Husker Du, has died at age 56. Ken Shipley, who runs the band’s record label Numero Group, tells The Associated Press that Hart died Wednesday in Minnesota. Hart had been diagnosed with…

Annual Walk Creates Space of Support for those in Recovery

Twin Ports Recovery Walk

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend, Northlanders will be walking for recovery to support those going through the process. September is Recovery Month, so the walk is taking place on Saturday, September 16 on the campus of the College of St. Scholastica. Registration is free and starts at 9 a.m. The walk gets underway at 10 a.m. Food, vendors and games…

Historical Society Brings Past to Life within Cemetery

3rd Annual Living History Walk is Saturday

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This weekend the history of Douglas County is coming to life in a place reserved for the dead. The Living History Walk is Saturday, September 16 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. The walk will be at the Greenwood Cemetery, 8402 Tower Avenue Superior, WI 54880. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the gate, $7 Veterans, $5…

JJ Astor Makes Fall Favorites in Preparation for New Menu

Cooking Connection: JJ Astor

DULUTH, Minn. – JJ Astor, the revolving restaurant in the Radisson in Duluth, has hired a new Executive Chef and is creating an updated menu. The new Executive Chef and Director of Food and Beverage, Bob Boyd, joined FOX 21 in the kitchen for this week’s Cooking Connection. JJ Astor Restaurant and Lounge is located in the Radisson at 505…

US West’s Wildfires Spark Calls to Thin Tree-Choked Forests

AP file photo, June 23, 2017 SALEM, Ore. (AP) – Wildfires that are blackening the American West in one of the nation’s worst fire seasons have ignited calls, including from Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, to thin forests that have become so choked with trees that they are at “powder keg levels.” The destruction has exposed old frictions between environmentalists and those…

Air Quality Reduced in Areas of Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – A combination of smoke from Western wildfires, high temperatures, and sunshine is eroding the air quality in the Twin Cities and in eastern and central Minnesota. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an alert for Thursday, warning those sensitive to air quality that it’s at an unhealthy level. The worst conditions are expected during the afternoon…

Water Protectors Protesting Enbridge Line in Superior

Some Protesters Cut Out of Car

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Four people have been arrested after participating in a protest outside of the Michel’s Pipeline Construction building in Superior late Thursday morning. During the protest, two vehicles were parked in front of the gates and tires deflated in order to make it more difficult to move vehicles. One person has been arrested for disorderly conduct and three others…

Pickleball Clinic Helping Locals Discover the Sport

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Area Pickleball Association is helping locals learn more about the unique sport through open clinics. Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of badminton, table tennis, and regular tennis. It’s played with solid paddles rather than rackets and is something that can be enjoyed by all ages. “I think everyone can play it, everyone has…

Utility Repair Underway on East Superior St and 34th Ave East

UPDATE: The city expects the intersection to reopen by 4 p.m. Friday. DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth reports that a failed storm drain pipe caused a washout at the intersection of East Superior Street and 34th Avenue East. The intersection has been closed to traffic as repairs to the pipe and road surface are conducted. The City anticipates…

St. Paul Security Guard Arrested for Filing False Shooting Report

Security Guard Accidentally Shot Himself

ST. PAUL, Minn.-St. Paul police say a security guard who was shot at St. Catherine University has been arrested for falsely reporting a crime. In a statement posted on the department’s Facebook page, police say the 25-year-old guard was taken into custody Wednesday night after he admitted to investigators that he accidentally shot himself while on duty Tuesday night. Authorities…

City of Superior Releases Images Of Future Housing Development

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The city of Superior has released images of what a future housing development will look like when it is completed next year. The building is under construction at North 13th Street and Grand Avenue. It’ll include 54 one-and-two bedroom market rate apartments. All units will have a washer and dryer, dishwasher, air conditioning and a private balcony….

New Campground Opens at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground State Park

More Camping Sites Also Coming Later

TOWER, Minn. – A new state park campground has opened on the Iron Range. Today the Lake Vermilion–Soudan Underground State Park officially opened for campers. The new campground used $7 million in bonding to become a reality. The new spot includes 33 campsites and electricity. “To be able to have campsites open to people can enjoy our natural beauty in…

Friends of Animals Humane Society Has a New Home

Cloquet Humane Society Held a Grand Opening for Their New Building

CLOQUET, Minn. – Friends of Animals Humane Society has a new building to call home. They had an open house and grand opening ceremony for the new space on Avenue B. Tours showed off the building and taught people about the foster and adoption programs happening at Friends of Animals. “We’re trying to provide a service to animals as well…

Balloon Festival Returning to Bayfront Park This Weekend

Event Will Include a Craft Brew Village, Color Run, and Children's Performance

DULUTH, Minn. – Hot air balloons will be lifting off in Bayfront Park this weekend. Duluth Rising, the annual hot air balloon festival, is back. This year’s event will feature a craft brew village, a color run, and a free performance of “Kids Live” featuring Disney Channel’s Kevin Quinn. “In the evenings when the balloons are lit and it starts…

Final Preparations Before North Shore Inline Marathon

The Race Weekend Kicks Off Friday with the Inline Marathon Expo

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend the largest inline marathon in North America will kick off near Two Harbors with a finish line in Duluth’s Canal Park. It’s time once again for the 22nd Annual North Shore Inline Marathon. Nearly 2,000 athletes are registered throughout a series of six different races. Online registration closes at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, but those interested…

New West Duluth Business Owners Honored

Six Entrepreneurs Presented With a Certificate of Appreciation

DULUTH, Minn. – New business owners were honored by the West Duluth Business and Civic Club. Six entrepreneurs were presented with a certificate of appreciation. Their new businesses filled some empty storefronts in West Duluth and other business owners hope the new ventures will help the whole area do better. “It looks like a very vibrant area to come and…

United Way Unveils “What Do You Fight For?” Campaign

Slogan Asks Northlanders Why It's Important for Them to Give

DULUTH, Minn. – The Head of the Lakes United Way is asking “What Do You Fight For?” The organization unveiled that new slogan today at Essentia Health, one of their largest local partners. The campaign asks people across the Northland what motivates them to give and why it’s important to them that everybody’s basic needs are met. “You may not…

Block Grants Available for Local Communities

Nearly $2 Million Available

PROCTOR, Minn.-Block grant funding has been instrumental in helping build up Saint Louis County since the mid-90s. It helps fund projects like the Vermilion housing project in Tower, created water and sewer infrastructure in six communities, and even helped supply meals through the Salvation Army. Today, a meeting was held in Proctor to discuss with area leaders what projects they…

Northland Residents Enjoy Warm Weather

Temperatures to Dip into 60s Over Weekend

DULUTH, Minn.-We are about a week away from when fall officially begins and many Northland residents are having one last hurrah as they enjoy summer time weather. Highs were expected to be in the 80s today with temperatures dipping into the 60s over the weekend. Today we caught up with one family enjoying one of the last hot days, as…

Virginia PD Looking for Public’s Help in Burglary Incident

VIRGINIA, Minn. – The Virginia Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying suspects that were involved in an early morning burglary on Sept. 13. On Wednesday, Sept. 13, around 12:42 a.m., two male suspects entered an occupied residence in the 800 block of 7th Street South by kicking in the door. Suspects took an undisclosed amount of cash,…

50% of Millennials Would Give Up Their Right to Vote to Get Student Loans Erased

(FOX NEWS) – As the staggering national student loan debt tally sits at an all-time high of $1.33 trillion, according to the Department of Education, many Millenials say they would go to extreme lengths to wipe their slate clean. According to a new study from Credible, a personal finance website, 50 percent of all respondents ages 18-34 said they would…

Target Recalls Dresser for Tip-Over Hazard

Target is recalling nearly 180,000 dressers after 12 reports of dressers tipping or collapsing. Incidents reportedly involved two three-year-old children, according to the recall notice.  The recalled dressers are unstable if they are not anchored to the wall, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Room Essentials 4-drawer dresser was sold in Target stores nationwide and online…