Wisconsin

Mother Speaks About Superior Firefighter Son’s Suicide; Dept. Holds New Support Training

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Cheryl Sutton, the mother of Erik Sutton — a retired Superior fire battalion chief – broke her silence Thursday about her son’s suicide to FOX 21’s Dan Hanger. This, as the Superior Fire Department – for the first time – takes on special mental health training to help prevent another tragedy involving one of their own. “Each…

Evers’ Capital Budget Calls for $2 Billion in new Borrowing

(AP Photo) MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Tony Evers’ capital budget proposal calls for borrowing $2 billion over the next two fiscal years for projects ranging from building new juvenile corrections facilities, a new state office building in Milwaukee and upgrading buildings around the University of Wisconsin System. The proposal must pass both the state building commission and the Legislature’s budget-writing…

Cleanup Talks Lead 2019 St. Louis River Summit

Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve organized event.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The cleanup of the St. Louis River was in focus at University of Wisconsin-Superior. The college held a St. Louis River Summit that included experts on the topic of clean and safe water. Currently the Wisconsin DNR said that of their 77 cleanup tasks, they’re about halfway done. They added that collaborating with others at the Summit is…

One Firefighter Injured in Superior House Fire

Cause of fire still unknown.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior Fire Department responded to a fire in a single family home on the 6400 block of Banks Avenue in the Village of Superior. The smoke alarm awoke all occupants and their pets, so they were able to get out safely, no one was hurt. However, a firefighter suffered a minor injury, crews say he is recovering…

Elizabeth Smart set to Speak in Wisconsin on Closs Rescue

The Event Will be Held on March 15

(AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File)MADISON, Wis. – Kidnapping victim Elizabeth Smart is scheduled to speak in northwestern Wisconsin next week to help the region cope with a high-profile double homicide-kidnapping. Prosecutors have accused 21-year-old Jake Patterson of breaking into 13-year-old Jayme Closs’ home just outside Barron in October, killing her parents with a shotgun and abducting her. They say he held…

World’s Longest Fat Bike Birkie

This Weekend Ride Your Fat Tire Bike In The Worlds Largest Fat Bike Race!

CABLE, Wisc. — The 45NRTH Fat Bike Birkie is taking over the world famous American Birkebeiner trails this weekend on Saturday March 9th! Fat Bike riders can test their skills and endurance on the professionally groomed ski trails! THREE events to choose from this year; the 47K Big Fat, the 21K Chico and NEW in 2019, the un-timed 10K Tour-…

Treating Pain, Anxiety with CBD Oil for Animals

Ignite Vapor and Tobacco is Located at 502 Hammond Avenue in Superior

DULUTH, Minn. – Scientific research proves man’s best friend is able to help humans relieve stress, but what helps your furry friends calm down and relax? The staff at Ignite Vapor and Tobacco in Superior believe the answer is stocked on their store shelves. Staff member Timothy Frey frequently deals with helping his German Shepard, Dakota, relieve pain. “There are all…

Early Morning Village of Superior House Fire Displaces Family

A Firefighter Sustained Minor Injury

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A home in the Village of Superior sustained an estimated $20,000 in damages after a fire broke out early Wednesday morning. Superior Fire Department crews were called to 6409 Banks Avenue at 2:35 a.m. Wednesday for a report of smoke filling up a house. When fire crews arrived the single family home had smoke visible in the…

UPDATE: Evers Refuses AP Request for Letter Walker Left him

The AP Requested the Letter on January 11

(AP Photo)UPDATE: — Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers on Monday released a hand-written note given to him by former Gov. Scott Walker just before he left office in January, after initially refusing an Associated Press open records request for the document. Evers released it hours after the AP published a story about his denial and asked that he reconsider. Evers rejected…

Wisconsin Births Decline to Lowest Point in 40 Years

Teens Births Have Dropped 60 Percent

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – A Wisconsin researcher says a drop in teen pregnancies has contributed to the lowest number of babies being born in the state in more than 40 years. Wisconsin Public Radio reports that data from the state Department of Health Services show there were less than 65,000 babies born in 2017; the lowest number in the state…

President’s Owner Sells Gas Station, Car Wash To Korner Store Owner

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Jim Bolin, the longtime owner of the President’s Liquor, Bar, One Stop and car wash, is beginning to move close to retirement by selling off half of his business to Korner Store owner Derek Medved. “I’ve come here every morning for 62 years, and it will be different not to have the convenience store,” Bolin told FOX…

New Building for Ashland Police Department in Jeopardy

The Next Council Meeting is Scheduled for March 12

ASHLAND, Wis. – The plans for a new Ashland Police Department are in jeopardy after the council failed to get a super majority to create a redevelopment authority for the $4.4 million project. Members needed 2/3rds the vote to approve the redevelopment authority for the new building. The measure needed to pass 7-4, but it only received six votes. One…

Train For The Le Grand Du Nord!

Active Adventures: Fox 21's Brittney Merlot Trains For The Big Gravel Bike Race

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. — In this weeks Active Adventures we are training in the winter! Both for a race and for our minds. Winters can be long, with cabin fever kicking in. Join us for some tips on where to go to get outside and ease your mind, or train for a race coming up this Memorial Day weekend! The…

Green Bay man Faces 11th OWI Charge

He is due Back in Court March 14

OCONTO, Wis. – A Wisconsin man is facing his 11th drunken driving charge. Sixty-six-year-old Douglas Kluth of Green Bay was arrested early Wednesday in Oconto County. Authorities allege he had an open beer on the center console of his car. Officials say the State Patrol was helping with traffic when Kluth parked his vehicle and approached a trooper. The trooper…

Evers to Unveil First State Budget to Skeptical Republicans

Evers Will Unveil his Plan Thursday Night

(AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, file)MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Tony Evers is releasing his first state budget to a skeptical Republican Legislature, with many of his proposals likely dead on arrival and others unlikely to pass without significant changes. Evers, a Democrat, unveils his plan Thursday night during a joint meeting of the Legislature. That will kick off a monthslong process…

Cultural Night to Captivate Northlanders at UWS

Cultural Night is Happening Saturday, March 2 at UWS

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Superior will showcase food and cultures from around the world for its 22nd annual Cultural Night on Saturday, March 2, at UW-Superior. The theme for this year’s event is “Celebrating our Differences.” Cultural Night, which is sponsored by World Students Association (WSA), will feature an international food tasting (hors d’oeuvre style) and cultural performances…

911 Calls, Video Show Chaos of Massive Wisconsin Pileup

NEENAH, Wis. (AP) — Authorities in Wisconsin have released 911 calls and police video that show the chaos of a deadly, 131-car pileup during whiteout conditions. Sunday’s chain-reaction crash on southbound Interstate 41 near Neenah, about 100 miles northwest of Milwaukee, killed a 30-year-old school teacher and injured 71 others. One woman called 911 to report she was just in…

Wisconsin Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Trying to Join Islamic State

His Sentence Will Also be Followed by 10 Years Supervised Release

MILWAUKEE – A Milwaukee man who tried to join and fight for the Islamic State has been sentenced to seven years in a federal prison. Federal prosecutors say Jason Ludke was a “true danger” and asked for a 20-year sentence followed by a lifetime of supervised released. But, Ludke’s attorney asked for five years, saying his client was a “lost…

Special Report: Lets Go Ice Fishing Part II

Father & Son Head To The Ice To Build A Lasting Bond

WATERSMEET, Mich. — For some families, there is no excuse to stay inside all winter long. In fact for some, it’s time to head out on the ice and do some fishing! Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot takes us on the ice, in the wilderness of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Joining a father and son that are building life long memories and…

Head of the Lakes Job, Internship Fair Happening Thursday

Grab Your Resume and Stop by UWS Thursday, February 28 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Superior will host nearly 90 employers from the Twin Ports and beyond as part of the free Head of the Lakes Job and Internship Fair on Thursday, February 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Yellowjacket Union Great Room. Employers will be available to meet, network and recruit for internships, seasonal work,…

Evers Appoints Former Legislator to DNR Board

He Replaces Preston Cole

MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Tony Evers has quietly appointed a former legislator to the state Department of Natural Resources board. The board’s chairman, Fred Prehn, introduced Fred Clark as a board member at the board’s meeting Tuesday morning. He replaces Preston Cole, whom Evers appointed as DNR secretary in December. The DNR’s board liaison, Laurie Ross, said Evers appointed Clark…

Special Report: Lets Go Ice Fishing Part I

Importance Of Guides On Lake Superior: Safety, Convenience & Reeling In The Big Catch

WASHBURN, Wisc. — After the polar vortex overtook the Northland, ice on Lake Superior rapidly formed! As of right now, over 80% of the great lake is frozen. With more ice this year, people are excited and heading to the shores. Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot takes us on a trip across the ice on Chequamegon Bay, with Houston’s Guide Service….

Coffee Conversation: Stuffie Boot Camp, Wellness Fair at the Bong Veterans Center

A Busy Week Ahead at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – All Northland stuffed animals are to report to boot camp Friday, March 1 at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior. The boot camp is designed to be a fun and educational event for children Pre-K through third grade. Anyone who has a stuffed animal is welcome to join in on the fun. The event…

Opposition to Evers’ Plan for Voucher Schools

MADISON, Wis. – Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ plan to freeze enrollment in Wisconsin’s program that allows students to attend private schools using a taxpayer-funded voucher is drawing opposition. School Choice Wisconsin president Jim Bender said Monday that the proposal “will not result in better academic outcomes for anyone.” Instead, the choice program advocate says the governor’s plan will “pour gas…

Facts First Before Filing Your Taxes

Financial Expert Barry Bigelow with Great Waters Financial Offers Tips as Folks File 2019 Tax Returns

DULUTH, Minn. – Nearly 90 percent of taxpayers are expected to take the standard deduction this year. While that may sound like taxes just got easier, financial experts warn filers should be aware of some major changes to the tax code. Financial Professional Barry Bigelow from Great Waters Financial offers tips to making your filing stress free this year. What…

Protecting the Birkie with Birkie Security Team

Security prepares for inclement weather.

HAYWARD, Wis.- Behind the scenes, the Birkie Security Team of about 25 volunteers say they’re Sawyer County law enforcement’s eyes and ears for the huge event. They tell us the weather’s cooperated so far, but they’re preparing for much worse as athletes and fans head home. Just be safe driving we have a major weather event heading our way,” said…

American Birkebeiner Skates Into 45th Year

Northland tradition again brings many to Hayward.

HAYWARD, Wis.- “It’s the Birkie, man!” The gun fires, and in one fluid motion the surge of skiers and skaters pushes off in Cable. “The day will go on to be talked about for years.” Main Street is lined with Birkie fans, the whole town of Hayward, and many others, lining the track with the sound of cowbells. “Your whole…

Stride, Ride & Glide A Triathlon

Get Your Friends Together And Run, Bike & Ski Through The Superior Municipal Forest

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — In this week’s Active Adventures we are headed to the beautiful woods, in the middle of winter, for a TRIATHLON! The Stride, Ride, Glide Tri is in the Superior Municipal Forest on Sunday March 3 at 10am. It consists of a 5k run on a flat snow covered dirt road, a 10k bike on a very scenic…

Wisconsin Governor Vetoes Republican tax Plan

Evers Will Unveil his Income tax Plans Next Week

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has vetoed an income tax cut bill in an early showdown with legislative Republicans who had moved to weaken the Democrat’s powers just weeks before he took office. Evers’ veto Wednesday came on a bill that his party had called a stunt by Republicans. The GOP doesn’t have enough votes to override the…

Shoveling and Slipping Safety Tips from Essentia Health

How to shovel without hurting your back, avoid slipping.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- More snow on the way means more shoveling for Northlanders. But there is potential danger when clearing snow. Emergency rooms see plenty of patients every winter who’ve been hurt while shoveling. While many of us don’t think twice about it, shoveling snow and even just walking on snowy sidewalks can be hazardous if you’re not careful. Using good lifting…

First Pediatric flu Death Recorded in Wisconsin

There Have Been 13 flu-Related Deaths Since October

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin health officials say a child has died after developing the flu. The Department of Health Services says the death occurred in southeastern Wisconsin, but declined to identify the child. Since October, there have been 13 flu-related deaths, but this is the first pediatric case. Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin physician, Lyn Ranta, says the child’s death shows…

Driver of Submerged Semi in Wisconsin ID’d; 2nd Body Found

Authorities are Investigating the Incident

  (courtesy: Fox 6) WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. – Authorities investigating an incident in which a semi plunged off a bridge and down a cliff into a lake near Wisconsin Dells have recovered a second body and also identified the driver. Authorities found a damaged guardrail on Interstate 90-94 just north of the Mirror Lake bridge in Sauk County about 7:30…

Evers Wants to Decriminalize Marijuana, Legalize Medical use

It is Unclear if Legislature Will Approve the Plan

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced Monday his budget will include proposals to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use and legalize medical marijuana. Evers said it’s time Wisconsin join more than 30 other states and the District of Columbia in legalizing medical marijuana. Possession, manufacturing or distribution of marijuana in amounts of 25 grams…

Team USA Helps Kids Ice Cross Downhill Skate

Mont Du Lac Resort hosts open skate following big international race.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Some drill holes to fish in the ice. Others skate downhill on it. At Mont Du Lac Resort, the U.S. Ice Cross Association ended it’s All Terrain Skate Cross race, or ATSX, weekend with a kids cross open skate. While this weekend hosted some major races for international teams, Sunday was the day the kids got to take…

CBD Craze: Does It Work, and Is It Legal?

A Special Report Takes a Closer Look at CBD in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn- Chances are you’ve heard of it “CBD” is a product that’s hit the shelves in Minnesota and Wisconsin stores. Leaders in the industry are cashing in, calling the trend “a gold rush.” Many of the people who use it say it works to treat their illness, but on the flip side pharmacy leaders have issued warnings calling this…

Superior Business Center to Get New Management

City of Superior and Douglas County handing over management

DULUTH, Minn.- Meanwhile the Superior Business Center off Hammond avenue could soon be returned to the hands of the Development Association. For the last five years the site has been managed by the City and Douglas County. City officials say they hope it is again used as a place for businesses to get on their feet. “Kinda turning it back…

Evers Says Wisconsin Joining Group Fighting Climate Change

Evers Says it is Time to Embrace Science

MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Tony Evers says Wisconsin will be joining the U.S. Climate Alliance, a group that works to implement an international climate accord and combat climate change at the state level. Neighboring Michigan became the 20th state to join the alliance last week. The group was formed in 2017 after President Donald Trump announced plans to withdraw the…

Northwestern Students Create Awards for Upcoming Sled Dog Race

Tiger Manufacturing has Proudly Created Medals for the Inaugural Northern Pines Sled Dog Race

IRON RIVER, Wis. – Northwestern High School students Alex Smith and Ethan Brown are excited for the upcoming inaugural Northern Pines Sled Dog Race in Iron River, Wisconsin. The students recently stopped by FOX 21 Local News with their instructor to chat about projects related to “Tiger Manufacturing,” the student-run manufacturing business on campus. Tiger Manufacturing was honorably tasked with creating…

Seven People Hurt in 40-Vehicle Pileup in Eau Claire

One Person was Critically Injured

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – The scene has been clear after a 40-vehicle pileup on I-94 in Eau Claire Sunday afternoon. The State Patrol says the crashed happened on both side of the interstate. The series of crashes involved seven semis and 33 cars. Seven people were hurt, one of them critically. The crashes are under investigation. Categories: News, News –…

Inaugural Northern Pines Sled Dog Race Happening in Iron River

The Northern Pines Sled Dog Race is Happening Saturday, February 16, 2019

DULUTH, Minn. – Residents in the community of Iron River are excited to host the inaugural Northern Pines Sled Dog Race Saturday, February 16, 2019. The event is happening at the Northern Pines Golf Course and Event Center. It’s free and open to the public. Organizers are looking to encourage all families in the region to come witness this first-ever…

Coffee Conversation: UWS Theatre Presents “I and You”

The Productions of "I and You" will Begin Friday, February 15, 2019

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Students involved with UWS Theatre are counting down the minutes until the premiere of the drama “I and You.” The upcoming performances, directed by Kathy Laakso, will be taking place February 15, 16, 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and February 17 and 24 at 2:00 p.m. “The audience will experience an appreciation of life for what it…

Book Across The Bay!

Ski, Snowshoe, Hike or Run From Ashland to Washburn Across The Frozen Chequamegon Bay!

CHEQUAMEGON BAY, Wisc. — The 23rd Annual Book Across the Bay takes place Saturday February 16th, 2019! Book Across the Bay is the upper Midwest’s most unique winter event, open to skiers and snowshoers of all ages and ability levels. The 10-kilometer course, which is groomed for both classic-style and skate skiing, starts in Ashland and ends in Washburn, and…

UW Regents OK Graduate Tuition Increases at Eight Schools

The Increases Were Approved Friday

MADISON, Wis. – University of Wisconsin System regents have approved raising graduate tuition at eight schools and out-of-state undergraduate tuition at six schools. Resident graduate tuition will increase at Eau Claire, Green Bay, La Crosse, Oshkosh, Parkside, Stevens Point, Stout and Whitewater. Green Bay will see the biggest increase, from $7,793 to $7,996. Nonresident graduate tuition will increase at all…

Escape Rooms Take Over The Bong Historical Center For A Good Cause

This Weekend Only! You Can "Escape The Bong" With 3 Different Themed Room Options.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — In this weeks Active Adventures, Brittney Merlot and Brett Scott get locked into a mobile escape room with 1 hour to get out! Watch the video above to see if they got out in time! Northland, you get the chance to try out the 3 new escape rooms that are only here for this weekend only! Grab…

Prosecutors: Wisconsin man Asked for Video of Rape Before Helping Teen

Rogers is due in Court Again on Thursday

(Dane County Jail via AP)MILWAUKEE — A Wisconsin man told a 14-year-old Tennessee girl he met online that he’d help her run away when she told him her adoptive father had been raping her, but only if she sent him video proof of an assault, federal prosecutors allege. Prosecutors said in a complaint filed this week against 31-year-old Bryan Rogers…