Minnesota

Minnesota Nears Giving 1 Million Coronavirus Vaccine Doses

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota is closing in on the milestone of administering 1 million doses of coronavirus vaccines. According to an update from the Minnesota Department of Health on Tuesday, the state’s health care providers had administered a total of 927,384 vaccine doses as of Sunday. That figure covers 686,210 people who’d had at least their first doses as of…

Duluth Police Investigating Shots Fired Incident

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department is investigating a Monday afternoon shots fired incident in Duluth’s Central Hillside neighborhood. According to police, officers responded to a report of shots fired in the area of the 20 Block of Village View Drive around 1:18 p.m. Monday. When officers arrived at the scene they learned that a small silver car was…

Update: Power Restored to Thousands of Minnesota Power Customers

Minnesota Power says power has been restored to all customers affected by Tuesday's outage

UPDATE: DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Power says as of 10:18 a.m. power has been restored to all customers affected by Tuesday’s power outage. Our crews have restored power to all customers affected by this power outage. — Minnesota Power (@mnpower) February 16, 2021 DULUTH, Minn. – Thousands are without power Tuesday morning in Duluth’s Bayview Heights, Piedmont Heights, and Hermantown…

Betty’s Pies Busy on President’s Day, Excited for Better Weather to Bring More Customers

The owner says even with limited dine-in seating takeout orders have remained steady throughout the winter.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- One popular restaurant along the North Shore, Betty’s Pies has adapted to the pandemic well. But owners say they’re ready for the spring and summer months to bring more traffic again. Betty’s was bumping Monday, staying open an extra day for the President’s Day Weekend. The owner says even with limited dine-in seating takeout orders have remained…

Warming House at Bayfront Ice Rink Opens for the Season

25 people are now allowed inside at a time, social distancing markers are on the benches.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Warming House at the Bayfront Park Ice Rink is back open for the season — with limited capacity. 25 people are now allowed inside at a time, social distancing markers are on the benches. The Parks and Rec. Department hopes the opening encourages more people to use the outdoor space. “The ice is usually very nice, and…

Extreme Cold Keeping Some Property Managers Busy with Repairs on Houses, Apartments

At ShipRock Management maintenance staff offers to check on homes when tenants are away, to catch cold weather damage before it escalates.

DULUTH, Minn.- The recent arctic weather has been harder on homes in the area, especially Duluth’s older, more heat-inefficient houses and apartments. And some property managers say they’re finding their hands full with maintenance. At ShipRock Management, maintenance staff says their 10 full-time crew members have been working around the clock to combat frozen water lines and drains. “This past…

Pandemic Could Cause People To Delay Cancer Screenings And Treatment

Research suggests even a two-month delay in cancer screenings or treatments could lead to a more progressive diagnosis and increased deaths.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the coronavirus pandemic continues to have a grip on the nation, health experts are now worried it could cause patients to delay cancer screenings or treatments. Research suggests even a two-month delay in cancer screenings or treatments could lead to a more progressive diagnosis and increased deaths. The shutdown of cancer screenings at local health facilities…

New Restrictions by Canada Sting Minnesota Border Businesses

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) — Canadian officials are enforcing tighter restrictions on nonessential travel across its border, which many northern Minnesota business owners view as a move in the wrong direction. Canada has kept its border closed to nonessential visitors for nearly 11 months because of the coronavirus. New measures to require COVID-19 tests when entering the country are meant to…

Love, Much-Needed Business in the Air for Northland Restaurants on Valentine’s Day

Both Va Bene and New Scenic Cafe were open for limited dine-in options on the holiday.

DULUTH, Minn.- It seemed Valentine’s Day was the first, closest-to-normal holiday in almost a year, especially for restaurants in the Northland. For some, it was the first time opening up to dine-in customers during the pandemic. “Love is in the air and we’re happy to be a part of it,” said Patrick Moore, co-owner of Va Bene Caffe. The Italian…

Minneapolis To Spend $6.4M To Recruit More Police Officers

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minneapolis will spend $6.4 million to hire dozens of police officers, even as some City Council members and activist groups are advocating to replace the police department following George Floyd’s death. The council voted unanimously on Friday to approve the additional funding, which was requested by police. The department says it only has 638 officers available to…

Doctors Who Say No To Opioid Use Face Threats From Patients

Doctors say they’re facing increasing threats of violence for refusing to prescribe opioids or trying to wean patients off the addictive painkillers. The issue was underscored by Tuesday’s shooting at a Minnesota clinic that left one person dead and four injured. Authorities say 67-year-old Gregory Paul Ulrich was angry about his medical treatment and had threatened a similar mass shooting…

Winterfest Medallion Hunt Canceled Due to Alleged Property Damage by Participants

Superior Mayor Jim Paine said some participants disturbed indigenous burial grounds on Wisconsin Point looking for the medallions.

DULUTH, Minn.- The 12th Annual Winterfest Medallion Hunt, hosted by Northland radio stations, has been canceled. According to organizers, it’s due to the alleged actions of some participants. A spokesperson from Midwest Communications said the Hunt was canceled because of alleged damage to public property by participants. According to a post on his Facebook Page, Superior Mayor Jim Paine said…

Former President Trump Acquitted of Inciting Violent Jan 6th Attack on Capitol

The Senate voted 57-43 that Trump is “not guilty” of incitement. Two thirds of the Senate, or 67 votes, was needed for conviction.

WASHINGTON (AP) – The Senate has acquitted Donald Trump of inciting the horrific Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, bringing his trial to a close and giving the former president a historic second victory in the court of impeachment. Trump is the first president to be impeached twice, and he is also now twice acquitted as the majority of…

With Cold Temps, Experts Say Watch for Frozen Pipes and Faulty Windows or Doors

During cold weather conditions, it’s important to make sure you’re watching out for things like frozen pipes, and faulty windows or doors.

DULUTH, Minn.- The temps are expected to remain frigid over the coming days, which may have an impact on your home. During cold weather conditions, it’s important to make sure you’re watching out for things like frozen pipes, and faulty windows or doors. Once you discover that your pipes are frozen, be sure to call a plumber as soon as…

Animal Allies Receives Wrapping on New Transport Van

The non-profit was able to raise $60,000 through their 2019 Fur Ball fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies Humane Society has just received wrapping on their brand new transport vehicle. The non-profit was able to raise $60,000 through their 2019 Fur Ball fundraiser and just received the new transport van in May of 2020. This past week, Animal Allies received new wrapping. The van will be used to take animals for vet appointments…

Gov. Walz Announces Adjustments to COVID-19 Restrictions for Bars, Gyms, Restaurants

ST. PAUL, Minn. – On Friday, Gov. Tim Walz signed an Executive Order to continue supporting Minnesota’s economic recovery by making adjustments to current COVID-19 restrictions in the state such as allowing restaurants to stay open until 11:00 p.m. “Our small businesses have made enormous sacrifices for the health of their employees and communities,” said Governor Walz. “Today, we can make these…

Crash Reported on Blatnik Bridge

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the MN Department of Transportation road reports, a crash has been reported between Garfield Avenue and the end of southbound I-535. Current reports say commuters should expect a short travel delay on the Blatnik Bridge due to the crash. For updated road reports you can visit 511mn.org. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Appeals Court Says It Won’t Step in to Delay Derek Chauvin Trial

(from left, Derek Chauvin, Tuo Thao, Thomas Lane, and J. Alexander Kueng) MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – The Minnesota Court of Appeals said Friday it will not step in and delay the upcoming murder trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged with murder in the death of George Floyd. Chauvin is scheduled to go to trial on March 8. State prosecutors, led by…

Officials: Chauvin Was Ready to Plead to 3rd-Degree Murder

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was prepared to plead guilty to third-degree murder in George Floyd’s death before then-Attorney General William Barr personally blocked the plea deal last year. Two law enforcement officials with direct knowledge of the talks say the deal would have averted any potential federal charges, including a civil rights offense, as part of…

Charges Filed: Man Shot Staff One by One in Minnesota Medical Clinic Attack

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A man who shot five staff members at a Minnesota health clinic this week shot two of them in the reception area before heading back to where patients are treated and shooting three others, including a medical assistant and mother of two who died of her wounds, authorities say in the criminal charges filed Thursday. Gregory Paul…

Local Mallow Maker Offers Sweet Treat Ideas For Valentine’s Day

Cooking Connection: Meet the Maker Behind 'The Minnesota Marshmallow,' Amy McMillan

DULUTH, Minn. – If you have yet to buy your honey something special this Valentine’s Day, then you’re looking for sweets in all the wrong place. Duluth resident Amy McMillan had the idea of starting her own side business in the summer of 2020. Fast forward to today, and The Minnesota Marshmallow has taken off. McMillan says business is booming,…

Diocese in Minnesota Settles Abuse Claims for $21.5 Million

WINONA, Minn. (AP) — The Diocese of Winona-Rochester in Minnesota says it has reached a $21.5 million settlement with 145 individuals who were sexually abused by its clergy members. It’s the last Catholic diocese in the state to settle its abuse claims, filed in response to a 2013 law that temporarily extended the statute of limitations on abuse cases. The…

Minnesota Supreme Court Deals Blow to Minntac Iron Mine

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Supreme Court says regulators can apply strict drinking water standards to limit groundwater pollution from North America’s top-producing iron mine. The high court says the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency properly concluded that pollution seeping into groundwater from the Minntac mine has harmed waters covered by federal standards meant to protect drinking water. Reports…

City Crew Respond to 6th Water Main Break in Duluth

Traffic has been limited to one lane during the fix. 

DULUTH, Minn. – Crews responded at 7:30 p.m. last night to the water main break on Grand and Seaver Ave in West Duluth. They were able to plug the small leak temporarily. Works continued the work at 7:30 a.m. Thursday morning to fix the break permanently. City officials are thankful that the break was so small. Water is not expected…

Walmart and Sams Club to Begin Offering Vaccines for Eligible Recipients

The two stores will begin administering the vaccinations in Minnesota starting on Friday

DULUTH, Minn. – Walmart and Sams Club Pharmacies will be yet another location for people to get Covid-19 vaccinations. The two stores will begin administering the vaccinations in Minnesota starting on Friday as part of the U.S Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. Any eligible customers are urged to schedule an appointment via the companies websites once they are available. For more…

U of M Medical School Researchers May Have Found A Way To Detect Ovarian Cancer Early

If ovarian cancer is not detected early, there is about a 25% survival rate.

DULUTH, Minn. – The American Cancer Society estimates more than 13,000 women will die from ovarian cancer this year. Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School may have found a way to help detect disease earlier. A new study shows the possibility of detecting the disease using a pap test, which is a process already being used to diagnose…

Moose Lake Businesses Adapting During Pandemic

Managers are thankful that they don't have to rely on just dine-in during these times.

MOOSE LAKE, Minn. – Dee Jirovec  and her husband have owned Gampers in Moose Lake for eight years and are grateful to be back open following a second shut down. “It’s wonderful to be open again and have the customers come in to be able and talk and have a good time with them,” Gampers Owner, Dee Jirovec says. And…

Government Investigating Massive Counterfeit N95 Mask Scam

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal authorities are investigating a massive counterfeit N95 mask operation in which fake 3M masks were sold in at least five states to hospitals, medical facilities, and government agencies. The foreign-made knockoffs are becoming increasingly difficult to spot and could put health care workers at grave risk for the coronavirus. A federal official says these masks are…

Update From City: No Water Main Break in Denfeld Neighborhood

Update: DULUTH, Minn. – City officials issued a correction Wednesday afternoon stating: “*Correction-The City received bad information in regards to a water main break noted below. There is no break at this location.” DULUTH, Minn. – City crews responded to a water main break in the Denfeld neighborhood just before 9:00 a.m. Wednesday. The City of Duluth Utility Operation crews…

Update: 1 Dead, 4 Hurt in Minnesota Health Clinic Shooting; Man Held

BUFFALO, Minn. (AP) — Authorities say one person is dead and four others are wounded in a shooting at a Minnesota health clinic. A 67-year-old local man said to have been angry with the care he received was arrested. The five people were taken to hospitals after Tuesday’s attack at the Allina clinic in Buffalo, a community of about 15,000…

DECC, Range Recreation Civic Center Among Minnesota Convention Centers Receiving State Grants

The DECC was given $500,000 and the RRCC, $105,000.

DULUTH, Minn.- Convention Centers and Theaters across Minnesota received their own share of $13 million in grants from the state Monday, and two convention centers in the Northland say it is a much needed relief from the effects of the pandemic. The DECC was a recipient of the highest grant amount allowed by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic…

More Ice Cover Good for Lake Superior, Experts Say

Experts at the Minnesota Sea Grant say more ice cover on the lake means cooler water in the summer months.

DULUTH, Minn.- While ice on the lake proved almost disastrous for those anglers Tuesday, local experts say even though it’s coming in slowly, the appearance of ice cover is good news for the health of Lake Superior. Experts at the Minnesota Sea Grant say more ice cover on the lake means cooler water in the summer months. “A two degree…

Workers On Two Ends Of The Spectrum Speak About Working On Chilly Days

"Even if you don't think it's going to be cold, be prepared," said Gordon Eggen, a junk removal specialist for Twin Ports Trailer Trash.

DULUTH, Minn. – A blustery cold day with below zero temperatures in the Northland can make indoor work much more appealing. “I am really lucky to work inside here at Vitta,” said Logan Conley, the assistant general manager for Vitta Pizza. Those with outdoor jobs know they need to be prepared for the elements. For many in this area, facing…

Multiple Anglers Rescued from Lake Superior After Ice Breaks Free

Angler Jack Norquist Tells FOX 21 Ice Was Roughly 8 - 10 Inches Thick at the Time of the Incident

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland is a playground for many winter enthusiasts, especially for anglers when temps dip well below zero. On Tuesday, entertainment turned into an extreme rescue operation as roughly 30 anglers had to be brought back to land after ice on Lake Superior broke free. “We were out fishing and heard a big loud boom,” said angler…

Update: 5 Wounded in Minnesota Clinic Attack; Local Man Arrested

BUFFALO, Minn. (AP) –Authorities say five people were shot and wounded in an attack at a Minnesota health clinic and that they arrested a 67-year-old local man. The five people were taken to hospitals after Tuesday’s attack at the Allina clinic in Buffalo, a community of about 15,000 people roughly 40 miles northwest of Minneapolis. Kelly Spratt, the president of…

Additional Cold Front Event Postponements Announced Due to Cold Temps

(courtesy: Facebook/DuluthParksMN) DULUTH, Minn. – Cold Front activities are being postponed once again due to extremely cold weather. According to a Tuesday press release from the city, the revised schedule of events is as follows: Yeti Hunt: Saturday/Sunday, Feb. 20-21 and Saturday/Sunday, Feb. 27-28. Clues released hourly on Facebook and Instagram (@DuluthParksMN) at 10 a.m Luminary Walk: Thursday, February 18:…

Judge Blocks Another Bid to Shut Down Line 3 Construction

(AP Photo/Jim Mone, File) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A federal judge has rejected another attempt by opponents to shut down construction on Enbridge Energy’s replacement for its aging Line 3 crude oil pipeline across northern Minnesota. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly says tribal and environmental groups failed to prove any permanent harm would result from allowing the work to proceed or…

DECC, Local Theaters Land Thousands in State COVID Relief Grants

It's part of more than $13 million in COVID relief grants, being spread out to convention centers and movie theaters across the state.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center — hit hard by the pandemic — has finally landed some relief from the state in the amount of $500,000. The grant is coming from the Minnesota Department Of Employment And Economic Development (DEED). It’s part of more than $13 million in COVID relief grants from DEED, being spread out to convention centers…

Yellow Bike Coffee Cafe Expands To Lake Superior College

DULUTH, Minn. – Yellow Bike Coffee Cafe officially opened its new permanent location at Lake Superior College. The café offers a variety of beverages and food options made to order for students to grab while on campus. Yellow Bike Coffee Cafe has a flagship store in Hermantown. The general manager believes opening a location on LSC’s campus reminds people the…