Minnesota

UMD Unveils New Kirby Rafters

DULUTH, Minn.– UMD’s Kirby Rafters has received a makeover right on time for the start of their spring semester. The Kirby Rafters is an event center at University Minnesota Duluth that has lived many lives. Originally starting as a student lounge center, The Rafters has now transformed to a venue for small concerts karaoke and board meetings. According to UMD…

Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital Reapproved as a Critical Access Hospital

UPDATE: As of Tuesday evening Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital’s status as a Critical Access Hospital was restored and will continue to care for patients as they have in the last two decades. ORIGINAL: ELY, Minn. — Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital (EBCH) has lost its status as a Critical Access Hospital (CAH) after the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) found the…

Tickets On Sale: Musical Bingo Fundraiser Feb. 6

SUPERIOR, Wis. – If you like Bingo and supporting local musicians, there’s a perfect fundraiser happening soon. The event is called Musical Bingo.  It’s happening Thursday, Feb. 6 at Barkers Island in Superior. The Mackie Brothers will perform snippets of popular songs over the decades, instead of calling numbers.  The names of those songs are on the Bingo cards. FOX…

‘Another Door’ Shelter For Young People Opening In Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.– A new shelter for young adults in Duluth is receiving its final touches, and they’re eager to begin helping the community. The site is located at Peace Church and is operated by Lutheran Social Services. Another Door emergency shelter will provide short-term emergency housing for people ages 18-24. The facility is offering 12 units, equipped with beds and…

Lake Superior College and College of Saint Scholastica Students Come Back for Spring Semester

DULUTH, Minn. — It was a chilly return to the books for many college students at both Lake Superior College (LSC) and College of Saint Scholastica (CSS). Students at Lake Superior College  kicked off their semester with crafts and an ice cream sundae bar as part of their Winter Welcome Week. Throughout this first week, students can participate in carnival…

Hillside Stabbing Suspect Charged

DULUTH, Minn. – A man faces 2nd Degree Assault charges, for a seemingly unprovoked stabbing in a Hillside neighborhood apartment last week, according to court documents. 24-year-old Lewis Barney Jr. is charged with 2nd Degree Assault with a deadly weapon after police say he stabbed a sleeping man. Police were called to 115 E 3rd St Apartments around 12:00 pm…

Man Charged for 778 grams of Cocaine, was out on Bond in Separate Drug Case

A LSVOTF search warrant seized 778 grams, and arrested a 24-year-old

DULUTH, Minn. – A man who was out on bond for allegedly possessing 730 grams of cocaine back in June, was arrested again last Tuesday for another substantial drug charge. The Lake Superior Violent Offender Task Force (LSVOTF) seized 778 grams of cocaine when executing a search warrant at 2325 West 7th St in Duluth on Tuesday. The search and…

Winter Weather Safety Reminders

DULUTH, Minn.– With the Northland experiencing another cold snap there are a few things to keep in mind. The seasonal snowfall brought in a wave of customers checking out equipment to handle the weather. Staff at Marshall Hardware in Duluth informed FOX 21 about the importance of stocking up on the right winter gear. These items including plastic window covers,…

Outdoor Trails Ready for Winter Activities

DULUTH, Minn.– Outdoor staff and enthusiasts alike are breathing a sigh of relief because ski trails are finally usable. The trails are finally up and running, because they were finally groomed Monday morning. Following the weekend snow, the trails are ready for mountain biking, snowshoeing, and skiing. Being able to offer these activities after having a disappointing winter season is…

DFL Reps Sworn in Early, Threaten to Withhold Quorum

Another twist in the road to the 2025 Legislative Session

DFL State Representatives early swearing-in ceremony at the Minnesota History Center, on January 12, 2025, in St. Paul, Minnesota. (DFL House Caucus). DFL Representatives are sworn in early, as they plan not to show up to the Capitol until they secure a power sharing agreement with House Republicans. With control over the Minnesota House of Representatives still uncertain, and negotiations…

Prince Estate Seeks To Block Netflix Documentary

An Oscar-winning filmmaker has made a nine-hour Netflix documentary on the late music legend Prince, but it may never be shown. Prince’s estate is in a legal battle with Netflix blocking the film’s release. The estate has reportedly demanded changes to the documentary. Two of the companies involved in the estate gave a joint statement to the Hollywood Reporter in…

Bob Dylan Memorabilia Up For Auction

A treasure-trove of Bob Dylan memorabilia is going up for auction. Julien’s Auctions says about 50 items and artifacts will be up for sale, including early handwritten drafts of Dylan’s first number one hit “Mr. Tambourine Man.” The items are from the personal collection of journalist Al Aronowitz, commonly known as the “godfather of rock journalism.” Among the items are…

47th Annual Atmore Memorial Ski Race Draws in Skiers From Across the Nation

DULUTH, Minn. — At Spirit Mountain, one of the biggest ski traditions continued this year as competitors from across the nation participated in the 47th Annual Atmore Memorial this weekend. The event is hosted by Team Duluth and named in memory of Dr. William Atmore, one of the original founders of the Duluth/Superior Alpine Club, now known as Team Duluth….

Preparations Underway for Duluth Wedding Show

DULUTH, Minn. — Preparations are underway for the 37th annual Duluth Wedding Show, taking place Saturday, Jan 11. at the DECC. For brides and grooms to be, the Duluth Wedding Show is a one stop shop for the big day. With over 130 vendors, couples can visit with professionals in the industry, such as wedding planners, florists, photographers and plenty…

Bent Paddle Brewing Participates in Dry January

DULUTH, Minn.– While many people are ringing in the new year with a toast to ‘Dry January,’ Bent Paddle Brewing in Duluth is tapping into the trend, offering something for everyone. Bent Paddle Brewing has been embracing inclusivity since 2018 with their ‘Canna-products’ lineup. From THC sodas and seltzers to gummies, they’re offering a unique twist on your favorite beverages….

Smooth Sailing for Duluth Port Authority’s 2024 Season

DULUTH, Minn.– The 2024 shipping season was apparently smooth sailing for the Duluth Port Authority. Duluth Port Authority officials told FOX 21, Through the end of November, import and export tonnage was nearly 30 percent ahead of last season. It has also been a good year for grain, specifically wheat, being one of the port’s leading export cargos. The port…

Virtual Public Meeting Held For ALLETE Acquisition

MINNESOTA – A public hearing was held online Friday morning regarding the acquisition of ALLETE, Minnesota Power’s parent company. The acquisition aims to strengthen operational and financial foundations of the ALLETE. It looks to keep Minnesota Power as an investor-owned utility while getting extra support from the Canada Pension Plan and Global Infrastructure Partners. They hope to eventually upgrade and…

Fuel Oil Leak in Morse Township

MORSE TOWNSHIP, Minn. – Approximately 500-1000 gallons of fuel oil leaked from a fuel oil storage facility in Morse Township on Thursday. According to a press release, around 12:43 p.m. on Jan. 9, 2025, the Morse Township Fire Department responded to a report of a fuel leak on private property on the city limits of Ely. The fuel was contained…

Johnny B’s Braves the Cold

DULUTH, Minn. — One local food truck is braving the cold and sharing their love for their craft. Food trucks are usually seen as a staple of summer cuisine but Johnny B’s is determined to serve up savory meals year-round. “They’ve been here almost every Thursday, all throughout the winter and we appreciate that as employees of cirrus, because having…

MN and WI Volunteers Aid Wildfire Recovery

DULUTH, Minn. — Red Cross Volunteers from Minnesota and Wisconsin are helping recovery efforts in California from historic wildfires. Volunteers have been quick to respond to the recent wildfires that have decimated parts of Los Angeles County. The Northern Minnesota Red Cross announced that some of their volunteers are already on the ground in the effected areas. The Minnesota’s Director…

Duluth Mayor’s Girlfriend Speaks Out After Being Cleared Of Any Political Wrongdoing

DULUTH, Minn. — An outside investigation has concluded Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert and his girlfriend, Amber Gurske, acted legally and ethically with city business during Reinert’s first four months in office.  And for the first time, Gurske spoke to FOX 21’s Dan Hanger Thursday to talk about it all. (Video of the full interview at the bottom of this story)…

Duluth Hillside Stabbing Suspect In Custody, Charges Pending

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Police say a man is in custody with charges pending for 1st Degree Assault, after a stabbing today in Duluth’s Hillside neighborhood. A 24-year-old was booked into the St. Louis County Jail today, pending charges for 1st Degree Assault, according to a statement by the Duluth Police Department. Officers responded to 100 block of East 3rd…

Hibbing HRA Receives 26 Million Dollar Grant for Workforce Housing

HIBBING, Minn.– Millions of dollars is heading to Hibbing, to go towards a brand-new housing development. This project tackles the need for quality and affordable housing for low- and moderate-income families. The new development will replace the current 52 units at the Greenhaven Apartments, which were built in 1952. The goal of all of this, is to address problems related…

Mid Range Honor Guard Honors Former President Jimmy Carter

HIBBING, Minn.– City of Hibbing first responders and veterans gathered today in remembrance of Former President Jimmy Carter. The Mid-Range Honor Guard gave military honors for Jimmy Carter. The remembrance took place at the Hibbing City Hall. Hibbing Fire and Police, as well as citizens attended the ceremony. The guard gave the 21-gun salute, and taps was played as well….

Hibbing Fire Department Purchases New Aerial Apparatus Truck

HIBBING, Minn.– Since 1994, the Hibbing Fire Department has relied on their big yellow apparatus truck to help them out with emergencies. But now, in the coming years, they will welcome a new aerial apparatus to join their fleet of trucks. The 1.9-million-dollar truck will take around two years to get manufactured. The truck will be built over in Wyoming…

Renew Thrift Store Opens in Morgan Park

DULUTH, Minn. — The Renew Church is expanding its reach, now helping to renew some wardrobes in the Morgan Park neighborhood. The pastor of the church is the brains behind the new Renew Thrift Store which will offer a mix of items — including free non-perishable food and gently used clothing. “Eventually we want to open up a drop off…

Study on ATV Tourism Revenue

NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTA — ATV Riders are bringing in the big bucks to Northeastern Minnesota according to a University of Minnesota study. In collaboration with the Northeastern ATV Joint Powers Board, researchers from the University of Minnesota has been collecting data on trail traffic through surveys and tracking where riders spend their money. The study found that in 2023, Riders spent…

Hockey Day Cloquet Rink Received Finishing Touches

CLOQUET, Minn. — Veteran’s Park in Cloquet is getting its final glaze of ice for “Hockey Day Cloquet” this weekend. It’s an eight day tournament highlighting hockey players from Cloquet all the way up north to the Iron Range, and as far south as Sartell. More than 50 volunteers and community business owners helped make this rink possible. Construction began…

Ice Sculptures Showcases Duluth Around Pier B

DULUTH, Minn. – Folks at Pier B can enjoy ice sculptures of several of Duluth’s most recognizable icons.  From Champ the Bulldog to the lift bridge these sculptures can be found inside and outside of Pier B. The sculptures were made by a company called Crystal Clear out of  Green Bay, Wis. For the last two years the sculptures have…

UPDATE: Superior Police Say Missing Superior Man Found Safe

UPDATE: Superior Police say Richard Elliot was found safe Thursday. ORIGINAL POST: SUPERIOR, Wis./DULUTH, Minn. – The Superior Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in locating Richard Elliot, age 62.  On Wednesday, January 8, Elliot left for work in Duluth, Minn. After work Elliot went to a church in Duluth and then to the Duluth Transit Authority where he…

Coffee Conversation: Nate Knutson Talks First-Ever Hockey Day Cloquet

DULUTH, Minn. — On Thursday, January 9, Nate Knutson was live on Fox 21’s morning show to talk about the inaugural Hockey Day Cloquet. A regulation-size outdoor hockey rink has been set up at Veterans Park for Cloquet’s first-ever outdoor hockey celebration, featuring local teams in a weeklong tribute to the sport. The event will conclude with four exciting Lumberjacks’…

Deadly Los Angeles Wildfires Rage On; FOX 21’s Perspective Of Fires On Northland Map

DULUTH, Minn. — Click the video above to watch FOX 21’s coverage at 9 p.m. Wednesday of the raging, fatal wildfires in the Los Angeles area.  Plus, Meteorologist Rusty Mehlberg gives a perspective of what the size of the fires over Los Angeles would look in Duluth and other parts of the Northland.  It’s a perspective that really opens your…

MN Judge Orders Mike Lindell’s MyPillow To Pay Nearly $778K To Delivery Service DHL

Courtesy: Mike Lindell MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A Minnesota judge has ordered MyPillow to pay nearly $778,000 for unpaid bills and other costs to package delivery service DHL, which had sued the company that’s synonymous with its founder, chief pitchman and election denier Mike Lindell. The award includes over $48,000 in interest and over $4,800 for DHL’s attorney’s fees. The order,…

Wonder Wednesdays at Great Lakes Aquarium

DULUTH, Minn.– Aquatic enthusiasts are fighting that midweek slump feeling by participating in this weekly winter event. Wonder Wednesdays is a winter long event put on by the Great Lakes Aquarium. They’re offering admission reduced to six dollars all day every Wednesday It’s giving both kids and adults the opportunity to warm up and enjoy the exhibits. There are also…

Hermantown Awarded $950,000 For Trails System

HERMANTOWN, Minn.– The City of Hermantown is going to be seeing some big changes to their trails system in the coming years. Earlier this week, it was announced that the city has been awarded a $950,000 grant from the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission to continue development of the Hermantown Connector Trail System. These trails are a part…

Women’s Care Center Giving Away Baby Formula

Courtesy of Women’s Care Center  DULUTH, Minn.–The Women’s Care Center in Duluth is giving away baby formula powder that is expiring in April 2025. The nonprofit organization posted on their Facebook page, acknowledging their overabundance of formula. They are encouraging the community to take what they need during business hours. Categories: Business, Community, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

$11.2 Million in Federal Dollars for Lift Bridges Rehab

DULUTH, Minn. — $11.2 million in federal funding is on its way to Duluth to help rehabilitate the historic Aerial Lift Bridge. The grant is provided by the u-s department of transportation. The rehab work will include surface preparation and repainting, lead abatement, replacement of deteriorated sections, miscellaneous structural steel repairs, repairs to concrete, and replacement of the bridge sidewalks….

Elderly Woman Dies After Scooter Starts On Fire

ELY, Minn. — An elderly woman burned to death after her motorized scooter started on fire. Ely police said the 80-year-old was outside the Boundary Waters Care Center when the flames ignited. Emergency crews were dispatched around 4:30 p.m. Monday after a witness reported the fire to 911. The report stated the victim was engulfed in flames before staff members…

Tensions Between AFSCME, City Of Duluth Still Strong After Tentative Contract Agreement

DULUTH, Minn. — The potential for a historic strike by hundreds of key Duluth city workers, including the all-important plow driver, has been averted.  A tentative deal between AFSMCE Local 66 and the Mayor Roger Reinert’s administration was reached late Monday night.  And now, a vote by union members will happen next week. But on Tuesday, one day after reaching the…

Annie Harala Becomes First Woman To Chair St. Louis County Board In 20 Years

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Louis County Board Commissioner Annie Harala has become the first woman in 20 years to serve as the county’s board chair. Harala was appointed by the board Tuesday for 2025. Harala joined the county board in 2023. Commissioner Mike Jugovich will serve as vice chair through the end of the year. Annie Harala Below is the…

Duluth’s Largest Employee Union Reaches Tentative Deal With City

The vote comes after tense negotiations that lasted months.

DULUTH, Minn. — The city of Duluth’s largest employee union, AFSCME Local 66, reached a tentative agreement Monday night with the city of Duluth that includes “no major concessions,” according to the union. The union announced the news to its nearly 500 members at 9 p.m. after 12 hours of “long, hard negotiations.” The tentative agreement came after historic tensions…

Carlton Co. Inmate Charged with Attempted Murder of Guard

CARLTON, Minn. – A Carlton County inmate has been charged with attempted murder after he attacked a corrections officer, according to court documents. Matthew William Johnson, 27, is facing charges, including attempted murder, after authorities say he attacked a corrections officer at the Carlton County Jail on December 30. According to court documents, an officer let Johnson out of a…

Limited Time: ‘Twin Ports Trailer Trash’ Free Christmas Tree Dump

DULUTH, Minn.– One person’s Christmas tree is a Duluth company’s trash. And once again, they’re helping clean up after the holidays — for free. For seven years, Twin Ports Trailer Trash has given back to the community by collecting Christmas trees at no cost. Of all people, the Grinch is involved in this operation and is responsible for much of…

Unseasonal Winter Weather Impacts Hartley Nature Center

DULUTH, Minn.– The winter programs are looking a little different this year for Hartley Nature Center, but they have several ways to overcome this. Following last year’s lack of winter, this year’s season is trailing behind with a different problem. Over the course of several weeks, many of the trails at Hartley Nature Center have developed a thick coat of…