Minnesota Archives - Page 359 of 379

Great Outdoors: Visit Cook County, Lutsen Mountains

Visit Cook County Executive Director Linda Jurek Explains Why Now is Such a Vital Time to Venture North

December 12, 2017

Brett Scott,

COOK COUNTY, Minn. – Staff at Lutsen Mountains are busy preparing for a non-stop holiday season of fun right now. From maintenance on the mountains, to answering phones at Caribou Highlands Lodge and Resort, it’s all hands on deck before thousands ring in the new year. Officials with Caribou Highlands say Christmas and New Year’s is a popular time for…

Duluth Police Chief Releases Statement Regarding Protective Gear

This comes after concerned citizens spoke out at last night's city council meeting.

December 12, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Police Chief is pulling back on his plans to purchase $83,000 worth of riot gear. This comes after concerned citizens spoke out at last night’s city council meeting against the protective gear. Chief Mike Tusken heard those concerns has had a change in heart releasing the following statement. “I want to write to you today in…

Future of Duluth Municipal Golf Courses Unknown

The city says these challenges have no obvious or easy answers.

December 12, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- The city of Duluth is questioning the future of the two municipal golf courses. The program is facing $ 2.2 million of debt and $12.7 million of deferred maintenance. The city says these challenges have no obvious or easy answers. Right now it is unsure if Duluth can support two 27 hole courses. “We in Duluth are facing…

District 709 Faces $1M in Projected Cuts

The District's top priority is protecting and preserving what happens in the classrooms.

December 12, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth School District is facing more than one million dollars in projected budget cuts. The district is currently $400,ooo in the red. District officials tell us they only have around $100,000 left in reserve, which an only be used for specific operational needs. The district’s chief financial officer Doug Hasler told FOX21 the district is doing everything…

Ironton Man Dies When Snowmobile Goes Through Thin Lake Ice

December 12, 2017

The Associated Press,

CROSBY, Minn. (AP) – A northern Minnesota man has died after the snowmobile he was driving went through thin ice in Crosby. A Crosby police officer heard calls for help coming from Serpent Lake around 5:30 a.m. Monday. Law enforcement and first responders responded, and divers found the man’s body in about 45 feet of water. The Crow Wing County…

Cook County Board Approves 2018 Budget

December 12, 2017

Site Staff,

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – The Cook County Board of Commissioner’s approved the 2018 county Budget Tuesday. The Board voted 3 to 2 to approve the budget that was presented by the Budget Committee with a levy of $9,236,751, a 17.5 percent increase from 2017. A homeowner with a $100,000 home would see roughly $60 extra a year in property taxes….

Dayton to Announce Franken’s Replacement Wednesday

December 12, 2017

Melissa Lentz,

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Governor Mark Dayton will announce his appointment to fill resigning U.S. Senator Al Franken’s seat at 10 a.m. Wednesday during a press conference at the state capitol. On Thursday, Dec. 7, Franken announced he would be resigning from the U.S. Senate following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. The senator has currently been accused by eight women….

Bipartisan Proposal Changes Minnesota House Harassment Policy

December 12, 2017

The Associated Press,

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – A bipartisan proposal to change Minnesota House rules would allow lobbyists, staff, members of the executive branch, and the public to make discrimination and harassment complaints to the Ethics Committee. DFL Rep. John Lesch and Republican Rep. Marion O’Neill also proposed an expedited investigative process that allows confidentiality for accusers. A person could lodge a…

Icy Road Conditions Leave 1 Dead, Another Injured

December 12, 2017

Melissa Lentz,

FEELEY TWP, Minn. – A Roseau, Minnesota man is dead after a roll-over crash southeast of Grand Rapids, Minnesota. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, 87-year-old Arthur Carlson, was heading west on Highway 2 in Feeley Township at 11 a.m. Tuesday, around 20 miles southeast of Grand Rapids, when he over-corrected on a curve and caused his Ford Ranger to…

Bellisio’s Wine Dinner Features Croatian Wines

"The Best of Bellisio's Featuring Korta Katarina Vineyards"

December 12, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend a popular event at Bellisio’s Italian Restaurant in Duluth is featuring Italian food and Croatian wine. The Best of Bellisio’s Featuring Korta Katarina Vineyards is Sunday, December 17 from 6-9 p.m. The Owners of Korta Katarina Vineyards, Penny and Lee Anderson, will be sharing their experiences in the wine industry. The dinner includes a four-course…

USA Today: MN Is Best-Run State In U.S.

December 11, 2017

Dan Hanger,

Minnesota has been ranked the best-run state in the country by USA Today. The report points to — among other things — a median household income $8,000 more than the median income nationwide at $65,599. The tax base is around $4,400 a year per resident, which is more than all but four states, according to the report. And the state…

Duluth Fire Department Shops for Northland Kids

The Duluth Fire Department filled carts to spread holiday cheer in the Northland

December 11, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Fire Department and Shopko have been partnering up since 2006 to check off a Christmas list for Northland kids in need. The Duluth Fire Department said doing their part to make sure less fortunate families have a happy holiday, brings them joy. This year the department was awarded $1,000 grant from Shopko. Funds are raised all year…

Fond Du Luth Casino Helping Keep Northlanders Warm

The Fond Du Luth Casino is close to their Salvation Army donation goal.

December 11, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- Nearly 8,000 pairs of socks will keep Northlanders warm, thanks to the Fond Du Luth Casino. The casino is still gathering socks for the Salvation Army to reach their 10,000 pair goal. Last year the goal was exceeded with 12,000 pairs donated. On Monday a check was presented to help support other various projects the Salvation Army has…

Survey Finds Medications Accumulating in Minnesota Lakes

December 11, 2017

The Associated Press,

WINONA, Minn. (AP) – Scientists have found that medications are making their way through Minnesota’s wastewater systems and accumulating in lake bottoms. The Winona Daily News reports that University of Minnesota professor Bill Arnold says a survey of Lake Pepin, Lake Winona in Alexandria, and the Duluth Harbor found 10 common antibiotics present in the sediment. All of those bodies…

On Sale Now, ‘The Copper Hen Cookbook’

Duluth's Best Bread Co-Owner Robert Lillegard Has Released His Third Cookbook, 'The Copper Hen'

December 11, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – Cooking can be difficult for many of us, whether it be finding certain ingredients or the time to perfect the best dishes, but one Duluthian is looking to eliminate the hesitation. Co-owner of Duluth’s Best Bread, Robert Lillegard first dabbled in cookbook writing when he was asked to write the first cookbook for The Duluth Grill. Since then,…

Coffee Conversation: Zenith Bookstore Offers Icelandic Holiday Tradition

In This Week's Coffee Conversation, Zenith Bookstore Owner Angel Dobrow Chats About the Jolabokafloo, or "Yule Book Flood"

December 11, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Midwest Roasters Coffee Conversation, Angel Dobrow, Owner of Zenith Bookstore, stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about their ongoing holiday event. The Icelandic tradition is traditionally called Jolabokafloo. The Zenith Bookstore in Duluth is bringing it to you by pairing books with chocolate. It’s a tradition done before the holidays and it’s…

Cloquet Community Band Performs Classics

Director Carol Risdon's husband, Gene, is a part of the band and he plays the trombone.

December 10, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

CLOQUET, Minn. – For 16 years the Cloquet Community Band has performed its Annual Christmas Concert. It happens at the Cloquet Presbyterian Church. Guests were treated to a live performance of holiday classics. The 22 member band is made up of volunteers and retirees. This year’s band is the largest one they’ve had. “We all donate our time to the…

The Nutcracker Ends Its Season Run In Duluth

In March 2018 the Minnesota Ballet will perform Swan Lake

December 10, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Ballet performed The Nutcracker for the final time in Duluth this season at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC). The Nutcracker is quite popular. More than 1,600 people showed up for Saturday’s performance. Kristen O’Bey saw The Nutcracker years ago but decided to bring her six-year-old daughter along. Her daughter just started taking ballet and…

Zenith Bookstore Bringing You An Icelandic Holiday Experience

Different authors will also stop by for book signings during this time

December 10, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – You don’t have to travel thousands of miles to experience an Icelandic Christmas custom. The Zenith Bookstore in Duluth is bringing it to you by pairing books with chocolate. It’s a tradition done before the holidays and it’s also known as Yule Book Flood, where you gift books and the sweet treat. When you buy a book…

Open House Shines Spotlight On Sami Culture

Sami American Culture has a 25 year history

December 10, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – The Sami American Community consists of descendants from the indigenous people in northern Sweden, Norway, Finland and a bit of Russia. Duluth is home to the only Sami Cultural Center in North America. We’re told in northern Minnesota there’s a lot of Sami ancestry. at the Sami cultural center they want you to learn about the history…

Washington Studios Holiday Exhibit Highlights Local Artists

The exhibit was made up of live performances, arts and crafts

December 9, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – Musicians, artists and painters showed what they’re made of at the 21st Annual Washington Studios Holiday Exhibit. Some of the artists featured at the exhibit live in the building and are able to work in the comfort of their own home. Beth Carpenter has lived at the Washington Studios Artists Co-Op for six years and some of…

Lights go on for another year at Marcia Hales’ house

Thanks to the help of the neighborhood, Hales' lights shine for yet another season

December 8, 2017

Graham Hakala,

DULUTH, Minn. – After almost not happening this year, the lights are lit and the public is invited to come check out Marcia Hales’ lights display. Marcia Hales loved looking at Christmas lights as a kid, and now her light display on park point has been a tradition for many families for several years. After announcing that last year might…

Local Sheriff Department Welcomes Four-Legged Deputy

Wesson is the fourth dog to join the St. Louis County Sheriff Office.

December 8, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn.- The St. Louis County Sheriff department welcomed a four legged officer to the force. The canine is named Wesson and he’s officially ready to help out in the streets. Officers said the new team member makes the force fully staffed. Wesson is a huge asset, one sergeant explained to FOX21 how dogs have a better sense…

Duluth YMCA Decorates Underwater Christmas Tree

Swimmers between the ages of 5-13 decorated the tree

December 8, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Area Family YMCA is diving its way into Christmas decorations. The swim team had it’s holiday party. Since they are swimmers they decided to decorate the Christmas tree that’s at the bottom of the pool. The team used clothespins and glow sticks. When they weren’t decorating the tree, the team did some relays, so they…

The DECC Welcomes All For the 2017 Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show

This year's show featured the U.S. Army Experience, animal exhibit and prizes and certificates

December 8, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) is the place to be for the Fifth Annual Arrowhead Ice Winter and Fishing Show. “It’s a great show, comes once a year,” said Show Manager Chris Navrati. “It’s a national circuit show all the manufacturers are here and it’s family friendly and we hope everyone can come out.” It’s a…

Local Orthodontist Office asks Patients to Donate Toys

Carlson Orthodontics had patients donate toys rather than pay for the visit.

December 8, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- It can be expensive to replace a lost or broken retainer, but a Duluth orthodontist office offered an alternative. This past year Carlson Orthodontics asked patients to bring in a present and write a story about their lost retainer in exchange for a brand new one. The presents are donated to the Duluth Police Department. “I think it’s good…

2 Democrats: Minnesota Governor’s Top Choice Mulling ’18 Run

December 8, 2017

The Associated Press,

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton’s preferred appointee to fill Sen. Al Franken’s Senate seat, Lt. Gov. Tina Smith, is considering also running for the seat next year, as Dayton is being pressured by top Democrats in Washington to appoint more than a mere caretaker, according to Democrats familiar with the discussions. Franken said Thursday he would…

Construction Plans Set for Cloquet Avenue

City officials said lanes will remain open throughout the construction.

December 8, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

CLOQUET, Minn.- The construction plans for Cloquet Avenue are finalized, making it more pedestrian friendly. The two mile long stretch hasn’t been worked on in 20 years. The top two inches of the road will be replaced with new asphalt. Improvements are planned for the sidewalk corners to be extended, at the intersection between 9th and 13th street. This will shorten the…

Eskimo Ice Fishing Gear at the DECC

The Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show will Include Eskimo Fishing Gear

December 8, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – The annual Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter show is kicking off Friday and will run through Sunday. Eskimo Ice Fishing Gear will be on hand to feature exhibitors offering one-of-a-kind products that won’t be found at any retail store. Event organizers invite everyone in the Northland to take advantage of show specials at unbelievable pricing. The crew…

Pawlenty Considering Running for Franken Seat

December 8, 2017

The Associated Press,

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty says he’s considering running for Sen. Al Franken’s U.S. Senate seat. The Republican governor and one-time presidential candidate insisted Friday that he’s still “politically retired.” But Pawlenty would be a prized recruit in 2018 for Republicans hoping to captialize on Franken’s resignation amid a cloud of sexual misconduct allegations. Pawlenty…

Active Adventures: Positive Energy Outdoors Winter Camp

Winter Camps will be Available for Children in December, January and February

December 8, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Active Adventures Steph Love with Positive Energy Outdoors stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about upcoming winter camps. Positive Energy Outdoors looks to encourage people and animal powered exploration of the outdoors. Winter Break Day Camp will give children three days to explore and play outdoors. In addition to snowshoeing and learning…

St. Louis River Alliance to Host Annual Open House

Multiple Organizations will be on Hand for the "Seasons of the St. Louis RIver" Open House Tuesday, December 12

December 8, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – The St. Louis River Alliance is pleased to be putting on their “Seasons of the St. Louis River” photo contest celebration and open house Tuesday, December 12 from 4:30 until 6:30p.m. The event will happen in the Barker’s Island Great Lakes Ballroom (300 Marina Drive, Superior). The open house is free and open to the public. Those…

Local Students form Suicide Prevention Group

The Students Offering Support group is reaching out to neighboring schools to help more Northland students.

December 7, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

CLOQUET, Minn.- Students from Cloquet High School are doing their part to prevent teen suicide. After the Northland students attended a text for life conference in Grand Rapids last year, they were inspired to bring the program back home. In students offering support also known as S.O.S. members know how to talk with someone struggling with depression and what adult…

UWS Yellowjacket Student Athletes Caroling For Cans

UWS has participated in Caroling For Cans for more than four years

December 7, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

SUPERIOR, Wis. -About 300 student athletes from University of Wisconsin-Superior (UWS) were out in Superior going door-to-door singing your favorite Christmas carols. They’re caroling for cans, so they can donate non-perishable food to a local food shelf. This is one of the many activities the Yellowjackets do for their week of giving. Athletes say this helps build team spirit while…

Northland Commemorates Pearl Harbor On the 76th Anniversary

Many from the older generation say they want to pass down the history of Pearl Harbor onto the younger generation

December 7, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – Dec. 7, 1941, is a date that many will never forget. It’s the 76th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Every year the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) has a ceremony to remember the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor and this year was no different. Laying the wreath in the harbor has a heartfelt…

Duluth Fifth Graders Learn About STEM

Careers in STEM include Medical Scientists, Computer Programmers, Civil Engineers and Cost Estimators

December 7, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – Fifth graders at Duluth Public Schools are dabbling into science, technology, engineering and math, also known as STEM. This week students visited the 148th Fighter Wing to use technology that real scientists use like 3–d printers, rovers and robots. The purpose of the program we’re told is to help build confidence in students and give them a passion for STEM. Teachers tell us it’s critical to expose students to STEM around the…

Census Data Shows More Minnesota Residents are Multilingual

December 7, 2017

The Associated Press,

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Data from the U.S. Census Bureau show that Minnesota is seeing a growing number of residents who speak multiple languages. Minnesota Public Radio reports that data shows more than 11 percent of Minnesota residents don’t speak English at home. About 60 percent of those people reported that they speak English “very well.” The bureau found…

Mixing Up Holiday Cocktails with Vikre Distillery

December 7, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Cooking Connection, FOX 21’s Brett Scott stopped by Vikre Distillery located in Duluth’s Canal Park to test out a few holiday cocktails. Visitor Experience and Events Manager Chelsy Whittington poured two cocktails from the distillery’s taproom. The Orange Whip includes Ovrevann Aquavit, Bent Paddle Bent Hop Syrup as well as grapefruit, lemon and orange…

Kangaroo Visits FOX 21 Ahead of Ice Fishing Show

Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show Runs Friday through Sunday

December 7, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – The Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show is opening up Friday at the DECC. A big attraction will be an exhibit full of exotic animals. Kevin Vogel, the Owner of Safari North, stopped by FOX 21 to talk about the exhibit. Vogel says people will be able to feed some of the animals and see a wide…

Northland Doctors Discuss Ethical Patient Care

Northlanders can do their part addressing the opioid epidemic.

December 7, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- Northland medical professionals are discussing ethical issues when treating patients with pain or addiction. The goal of the Medical Ethics Conference is to make sure patients are being treated fairly. When treating chronic pain medical professionals have a lot to take into consideration; from when opioids should be prescribed, to what to do if your patient develops an…

Rise in Impaired Driving During Holiday Season

Local law enforcement are cracking down on driving under the influence this holiday season.

December 7, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.-Last year in Minnesota 74 people died due to alcohol involved crashes, on Wednesday 74 holiday gifts were handed out at the University of Minnesota Duluth. The event is part of the Towards Zero Death Campaign. Local law officials walked students through field sobriety tests. When participants attempted to complete the tasks wearing the drunk simulation goggles, it put things perspective….

Aerial Lift Bridge Malfunction Causes Brief Delay

The repairs were made within 45 minutes

December 7, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. -The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge is raised and lowered a lot. But just like any piece of equipment the bridge can malfunction. Last Friday a 1,000 foot ship couldn’t pass through with its cargo because the bridge wouldn’t come up properly leveled The captain ended up turning around and coming back and it was all caught on video….

Sen. Al Franken Announces His Resignation Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

December 7, 2017

Site Staff,

WASHINGTON – Senator Al Franken has announced his resignation from the United States Senate. During a scheduled speech on the senate floor, Senator Al Franken announced he will be leaving the United States Senate in the coming weeks amid multiple sexual misconduct allegations. Gov. Mark Dayton must now appoint someone to take Franken’s seat during the Nov. 2018 election….

7th annual Evening of the ARTS for CHOICE, unlimited

The program helps adults with disabilities with employment and community inclusion

December 6, 2017

Graham Hakala,

DULUTH, Minn. – Wednesday was the 7th annual Evening of the ARTS for Choice, unlimited. Choice, unlimited is a day program that helps adults with disabilities find employment and inclusion in their local communities. on Wednesday, the organization shared some of the arts projects they worked on, such as writing and dance. “It’s a sense of accomplishment,” visual arts instructor Maria…

Northland Finnish community celebrates 100 years of independence

Finland declared their independence from Russia in 1917

December 6, 2017

Graham Hakala,

DULUTH, Minn. – December 6 Finland’s Independence Day, and Northlanders were celebrating. Wednesday is the 100th anniversary of Finland’s independence from Russia in 1917. Northlanders filled the Great Hall at The Depot to celebrate Finnish heritage, listen to music and eat some traditional food “There certainly are a lot of people here,” organizer Arlene Putikka Tucker said. “You go through the phone…

Norshor Theatre Renovations Coming Along

The Theatre will have 650 seats and 195 new lights

December 6, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. -It’s been 18 months since the major renovations began at the historic Norshor Theatre in downtown Duluth. About 50 people got an update and went on a tour to see how the project is coming along. The restored venue underwent a top to bottom makeover. Our cameras weren’t allowed inside, but there will be new dressing rooms, rehearsal studios and administrative offices. Norshore…

Volunteers Spend Their Day of Caring At Safe Haven Shelter & Resource Center

Several non-profits benefited from the local projects for this Day of Caring Holiday Edition

December 6, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – United Way’s Day of Caring lets volunteers pitch in at local non-profits by doing what they do best, volunteer. Safe Haven in Duluth works with women and children who have been affected by domestic violence. Volunteers were in the kitchen helping out and had it smelling like fresh baked cookies. The kids will bring the cookies home and decorate them with their family….

One Northlander is Helping Wildfire Responders

One Northlander with the Red Cross is assisting with the natural disaster in Southern California

December 6, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- One Northlander with the American Red Cross packed up to lend a hand in with the growing wildfires in Southern California. Tony Guerra said helping this time of year means a little more. Guerra is managing a five man team heading out Tuesday afternoon to assist responders. Guerra has helped with other wild fire disasters in the past. “That’s what we…

Bent Paddle Relocating Taproom, as Brewery Continues to Expand

Expected to open in early 2018

December 6, 2017

Melissa Lentz,

DULUTH, Minn. – Bent Paddle Brewing Company (BPBC) announced plans for a new taproom earlier this year, but details were not finalized. The brewery has officially announced relocation plans that will move their taproom into a historic space just across the street in early 2018. The taproom will shift to the next block to 1832 Michigan Street, a location formerly…

New Northern Pike Fishing Regulations Coming in Spring 2018

Regulations go into effect March 1, 2018 for Minnesotans fishing on inland waters

December 6, 2017

Melissa Lentz,

(MnDNR) MINNESOTA – Anglers and spearers going after northern pike this winter can prepare for new regulations that will be in effect for the spring fishing opener on Minnesota’s inland waters. The new regulations on inland waters will be in effect starting March 1, however northern pike fishing is not allowed until fishing opener on May 12. “Pike regulations remain…