Minnesota

Minnesota Jobless Rate Edges Up To 1.9% In August, Still Near Record Low

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – Minnesota’s unemployment rate ticked up to 1.9% in August as hiring slowed, though the jobless rate remains near a historic low amid a tight labor market. The state lost 3,100 jobs in August, according to Minnesota Employment and Economic Development officials. State officials also revised July’s gains downward to 17,100 from their initial estimate of 19,100. Minnesota had…

Local Fire Departments Provide Parents with Car Seat Safety Clinics

Car seat clinics are held in Duluth, Superior and Cloquet, you can find a clinic close to you by visiting your local fire departments website.

DULUTH, Minn.- Three out of four car seats in America are not properly installed, which could potentially lead to your child not having enough protection in a crash. At a firehall in Duluth on Thursday, St. Luke’s provided parents an opportunity to learn how to properly install a car seat. The safety clinic is something provided every month in a…

University of Minnesota Duluth Medical School Celebrates 50th Anniversary

DULUTH, Minn. — Thursday marks year 50 for the medical school within UMD’s campus. For the past 5 decades, the medical school has given Bulldogs the opportunity to gain medical training to become future physicians. Thursday, campus and city leaders came together to celebrate the milestone. Duluth’s campus provides a unique focus on rural family medicine, as well as Native…

One Building Deemed Total Loss after Duluth Fire

DULUTH, Minn. — On Wednesday, downtown Duluth was smoke-filled after a building caught fire in the Central Hillside neighborhood. According to Duluth Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj, a fire was reported on 522 East Fourth Street at 5:37pm. Engulfed in the flames was the Lake Superior Medical Equipment building and four apartment units above it. 38 Duluth firefighters worked to distinguish…

Uncle Loui’s Café Survives Next-Door Building Fire

DULUTH, Minn. — On Wednesday, one building was engulfed in flames in Duluth’s Central Hillside neighborhood and many expressed concern for Uncle Loui’s, a beloved Café next door. Uncle Loui’s Café has been around Duluth since 1993. It’s a fan favorite brunch hub, and it wouldn’t be the first time Loui’s had faced fire. In April of 2007, the café…

Nearly 15,000 Nurses Return to Hospitals after MNA Strike

DULUTH, Minn. — On Thursday, nearly 15,000 nurses with the Minnesota Nurses Association returned to work after their historic three-day strike. The strike came after months of unresolved contract negotiations between the MNA and 15 minnesota hospitals, with nurses expressing frustration over what they say are unsafe staffing levels and not enough pay. Here in the Twin Ports, St. Luke’s…

Man Found Dead In Work-Related Accident In Industrial Township

INDUSTRIAL TOWNSHIP, Minn. — A 40 year-old man died in a work-related accident Wednesday afternoon. The incident happened in the Industrial Township in St. Louis County. First responders got the call just before 3 p.m., according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. It is unclear what happened, but the Sheriff’s Office says the 40 year-old Brad Wojtysiak from Culver…

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Inline Marathon Route From Two Harbors To Duluth

DETAILED ROAD CLOSURES FROM THE DULUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT:  “On Friday, September 16, at 3:00 p.m Harbor Drive between the Irvin slip and the Aquarium will close to traffic for Kid’s Inline Sprint Races. The Great Lakes Aquarium lot will remain accessible during this time. It will open at the conclusion of the Inline Marathon on Sunday, September 18 at 8:00…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Oktoberfest Takes Over Bayfront Park Sept. 16-18

DULUTH, Minn. — Dust off your lederhosen and lace up your dirndl, Duluth’s Oktoberfest is back this weekend at Bayfront Festival Park. The fun starts Friday, Sept. 16 with cold German beer, Bovarian food, all types of games and activities, and of course authentic live music. FOX 21’s Dan Hanger got a flavor of that music on the morning show…

Thousands Of Striking Nurses Return To Work In Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Thousands of nurses returned to work Thursday at Minnesota hospitals following a three-day strike over wage increases and staffing and retention made worse by the coronavirus pandemic. Members of the Minnesota Nurses’ Association at 15 hospitals in the Twin Cities and Twin Ports walked off the job Monday. Nurses could soon learn what impact the strike may have had…

Mixed Income Cottage Rentals Coming to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — A new option for rental housing is coming to the northland, and it’s not one size fits all. Cottage villas will be up for rent, priced for mixed income households. Tucked within the trees of a West Duluth neighborhood, the Fairmount Cottage Development is planting multiple new housing seeds. “There’s one word that I know that we…

Final Day of MNA Nurse Strike: What Next?

DULUTH, Minn. — For the past two days, nearly 15,000 nurses with the Minnesota Nurses Association have been on strike. The strike comes after months of unresolved contract negotiations between the MNA and 16 minnesota hospitals, with nurses expressing frustration over staffing levels and not enough pay. Here in the Twin Ports, S. Luke’s and Essentia Health say MNA nurses…

St. Paul Man Who Targeted 1,100 Victims In Sextortion Scheme Sentenced

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – The man who targeted hundreds of girls in a sextortion scheme has been sentenced to 43 years in federal prison. Yue Vang, 31, of St. Paul, pleaded guilty in June to two counts of production of child pornography, one count of possession of child pornography and one count of interstate communications with intent to extort. He was sentenced to 516…

Coffee Conversation: Learning & Libations Fundraiser, ‘Trombone For Two’ Performs

DULUTH, Minn. – Music group Trombone For Two will be playing tunes at the Duluth Library Foundation’s 11th annual Learning & Libations fundraiser Saturday, Sept. 17 from 6:45 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. at the downtown branch. Trombone For Two helped preview the event on the morning show Wednesday by playing three fantastic songs.  See those below and hear more about…

Law Enforcement Nabs 10% More Drivers For DWIs During Summer Safety Campaign

MINNESOTA — The Minnesota Department of Public Safety says an 18-day stretch of extra patrols at the end of August into early September netted more DWI arrests compared to last summer. From August 19th through September 5th, more than 1,200 drivers were arrested for being impaired. Last year, that number was a little more than 1,100. There were almost 300…

Everything Looking Up For Hawk Ridge Bird Migration

DULUTH, Minn. — Some people may be sad that summer is over, but fall also brings a lot of excitement and anticipation to others. This was the familiar and wonderful scene at Hawk Ridge today. Mother nature and the great migration are underway. Hawks in all sizes and species filled the sky and watching from below were the viewing faithful….

KOOCHICHING CTY: FEMA Denies Individual Flood Help / SBA Offers Loans

KOOCHICHING COUNTY — After months of historic flooding near International Falls, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, says it will not be assisting individual residents in fixing the damage. Koochiching County Emergency Management says FEMA found not enough individual property damage to qualify for the assistance program. County Sheriff Perryn Hedlund says, they were told the protective measures put…

Inside the Hospital amidst MNA Nurse Strike

DULUTH, Minn. — As thousands of nurses with the Minnesota Nurses Association walked out and hit the picket lines, many are left wondering what’s going on inside of the hospitals now. Tuesday was day two of the three-day MNA nurse strike. The strike comes after months of contract negotiations between the MNA and 16 Minnesota hospitals, with nurses expressing frustration…

New Superior National Forest Supervisor Announced

DULUTH, Minn. — A new Superior National Forest Supervisor was announced Tuesday afternoon. Tom Hall is coming from Washington D.C. where he served in the USDA Forest Service. He has over 20 years of experience in sustainable land management principles. Hall said in a press release, “I am looking forward to helping the Forest, Tribes and Partners continue to manage the…

St. Louis County Historical Society To Host Centennial Celebration

100th birthday bash is happening Friday, Sept. 16.

DULUTH, Minn. — The St. Louis County Historical Society is throwing a big 100th birthday bash this Friday, Sept. 16 in the Great Hall at the Depot. The Centennial Celebration is free to attend and will feature live music, appetizers and a cash bar.   You are encouraged to reserve a free spot by click here. Categories: Business, Coffee Conversation, Community,…

Northern Lights Foundation To Host Charitable Children’s Gala

Lifting Local Spirits: Sept. 29 At The DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — The Northern Lights Foundation, which financially supports Northland families with children suffering life-threatening illnesses, is getting ready to put on its biggest fundraiser of the year. The Children’s Charitable Gala: Lifting Local Spirits is happening Thursday, Sept. 29 at the DECC. There will be a live and silent auction, raffles, social hour, dinner, and a presentation. For…

Thousands of MNA Nurses Strike Across Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. — On Monday, nurses with the Minnesota Nurses Association went on strike at hospitals across the Twin Cities and Twin Ports. The MNA and the hospitals have spent more than five months in contract negotiations, with nurses complaining of low wages and understaffing. The two groups have yet to reach an agreement. 10 days ago, nurses at 16…

Local Outdoor Recreation Industries Have Positive Impact On Duluth’s Economy

DULUTH, Minn. — Monday, some Minnesota department leaders visited Duluth to learn about how outdoor recreation helps the City’s economy. Leaders with the Minnesota DNR, the Department of Employment and Economic Development, and Explore Minnesota talked about collaborating with places like Duluth to promote outdoor tourism. A study of the economic data shows that across Minnesota, the recreation industry brings…

UPDATE: Man Identified Who Was Found In Vermilion River, Cause Of Death Being Investigated

UPDATE (September 12, 2:15 p.m.) — The 43 year-old man who was found in Vermilion River has been identified. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office says the name of the man is Keith Joseph Roy of Orr, Minnesota. The cause of death is still being investigated. ORIGINAL POST: CRANE LAKE, Minn. — A death investigation is underway after a man’s…

Thousands Of Minnesota Nurses Launch 3-Day Strike Over Pay

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Thousands of nurses in Minnesota launched a three-day strike Monday, complaining of low salaries and understaffing worsened by the strains of the coronavirus pandemic. Some 15,000 nurses at seven health care systems in the Minneapolis and Duluth areas walked out. The affected hospitals said they recruited temporary nurses and expected to maintain most services. Picket signs went…

Body Found Under I-35 Ramp In Downtown Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — A man’s body was found under the I-35 ramp in Downtown Duluth, according to the Duluth Police Department. Police say the call came in around 4:20 p.m. Sunday along the 800 block of West Railroad Street at the underpass. Investigators believe the 29 year-old man died of an apparent overdose. Categories: Crime, Minnesota, News, News – Latest…

MNA Holds Rally Ahead of Monday’s Strike, Hospitals Prepare For Nursing Gap

DULUTH, Minn. – Beginning Monday at 7 a.m., approximately 15,000 nurses with the Minnesota Nurses Association will go on strike, affecting many hospitals, including those in the twin ports. Earlier Sunday evening the MNA held a “Community Rally” at Duluth City Hall to raise awareness. Nurses, some medical students, and community members were part of the event. Speakers from the…

Bobcat Receives First-Ever Stem Cell Treatment At The Wild Cat Sanctuary

SANDSTONE, Minn. — An aging bobcat’s life has been turned around through a promising new avenue for joint treatment. Meet Baby Jenga Blue, the Wildcat Sanctuary’s 19 year-old bobcat. Baby Jenga is suffering from chronic arthritis affecting his wrists. That is, until he became the first ever bobcat to receive stem cell therapy. The treatment used cells grown in a…

Largest Model Train Display in the Midwest Comes to the Depot This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn.–Many kids got interested in playing with model trains when they were young. And for many of those kids, that love grew as they went into adulthood. Well, this weekend it will be wall-to-wall track, trestles and bridges at the St. Louis County Depot. Photojournalist Adam Jagunich caught a glimpse of the setup happening Friday afternoon. You can check…

Jerry Westrom Sentenced To Life In Prison For 1993 Murder

(FOX 9) – A hockey dad and Isanti businessman has been sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of release after 30 years for the murder of Jeanne Childs in June 1993. Jerry Westrom, 56, was convicted of first-degree premeditated murder and second-degree murder last month. A judge on Friday, Sept. 9, sentenced him based on 1993 guidelines, which are slightly different from current state…

University Of Minnesota Duluth Medical School Students Stand With MNA Nurses

MINNESOTA — As 15,000 nurses with the Minnesota Nurses Association prepare to strike Monday, up-and-coming nurses are standing in solidarity. There was a statement released Friday by 131 nursing students with the University of Minnesota Medical School, and part of it says: “We have your backs as we stand with you to call on healthcare networks around the state to…

‘Veterans For Peace’ Stops In Duluth, Calls For End Of Nuclear Weapons Worldwide

DULUTH, Minn. — The mission to abolish nuclear weapons took center stage outside Duluth City Hall today with Twin Ports Mayors Emily Larson and Jim Paine there in support. Veterans for Peace chose Duluth as its first of more than 100 towns and cities where they’ll be educating people about the dangers of radiation and how they can help influence…

Blatnik Bridge Reopens All Lanes To Public

DULUTH, Minn. — Drivers are getting some relief on the Blatnik Bridge after three months of summer construction. All lanes are now open compared to single lanes in both directions since May. Crews had been working on concrete, sealing, drainage, and deck improvements. This has all been done to keep the bridge safe and functional until it can be replaced…

MNDOT Proposes Roundabouts On London Road; Some Homeowners Oppose

DULUTH, Minn.– The Minnesota Department of Transportation has recently proposed a new project to construct three new roundabouts along London Road.  But not everyone living in the area is for it. In an effort to make improvements to the pavement, calm traffic, and make the road safer for pedestrians, MNDOT has proposed the 2025 London Road Project. “We are planning…

Garden Shop Prepares for the Fall Season

DULUTH, Minn. — Despite the summer season coming to an end, one garden center is still green and blooming. A+ Garden Center has two locations; one at Duluth’s Kenwood Super One Plaza, and their main spot in Pike Lake. Owners have been transitioning both shops from summer to fall sales, meaning gardeners are leaving with more trees, shrubs, and fan-favorite…

Essentia Files Unfair Labor Charge Following MNA’s Call to Strike

DULUTH, Minn. — Essentia Health has filed an unfair labor practice charge after the Minnesota Nurses Association failed to include them in their strike notice. The filing comes after MNA nurses at 16 different hospitals in the Twin Cities, Twin Ports, and Moose Lake announced a three-day strike, starting on September 12th. The MNA and the hospitals have spent more…

Peace of Mind Duluth holds Hiring Event

DULUTH, Minn. — Peace of Mind Duluth is looking to add more staff to its team. On Wednesday, they held a hiring event for people to walk-in and get interviewed on the spot. Peace of Mind describes themselves as a supportive living service, assisting people with a range of treatments and mental health support. They are hoping to fill a…

Judge Who Voided Minnesota Abortion Limits Blocks Appeal Bid

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A Minnesota judge who struck down key restrictions on abortion in the state has rejected a bid by a county prosecutor who hopes to appeal the ruling. Ramsey County District Judge Thomas Gilligan ruled Tuesday night that Traverse County Attorney Matthew Franzese is not entitled to intervene in the case. Franzese had hoped to pursue an appeal after Attorney General Keith…

Stella Maris Academy Opens New High School

DULUTH, Minn. — Tuesday was the first day of school for many students, and some stepped foot inside Stella Maris Academy’s new High School for the first time. Nestled away in the woodland neighborhood, sits a new Stella Maris Academy High School. About 5 years ago, all of the Catholic Schools in the Duluth area decided to combine, resulting in…

Dangers of Back-to-School Posts on Social Media

DULUTH, Minn. — Posting back-to-school photos is a tradition for many parents, but the harmless act can have harmful results if too much information is shared. The Duluth Police Department is reminding parents to be cautious with what they post online. It can be common to upload a first day of school picture with your child’s name, age, and fun…

City: Duluth’s Tourism Tax Revenue Up ‘Significantly’

DULUTH, Minn. — New financial numbers show Duluth’s tourism tax revenue is up “significantly” so far this year compared to 2021, according to the city’s Treasury Division. The city’s hotel, motel, food and beverage taxes through July are ahead nearly a $1 million compared to 2021 at $7,322,291. As for the month of July alone, total tourism tax revenue is…

2 Minnesotans Among 10 Killed In Seattle-Area Plane Crash

MINNETONKA, Minn. (FOX 9) – A Minnesota couple were among the 10 people killed when a seaplane crashed near Whidbey Island in Washington on Sunday. Rebecca and Luke Ludwig were killed when the plane went down. UnitedHealthCare, which is based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, confirmed to FOX 9 on Tuesday Rebecca Ludwig works for the company and was on the plane. According to social media, the couple had two…