Minnesota Archives - Page 60 of 359

Mayor Larson Appoints Filipovich To DECC Board, Mayor-Elect Reinert Asks Council To Deny

This comes after Reinert asked Larson to let him appoint board, commission seats opening in December

December 10, 2023

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Mayor Emily Larson is in power until Jan. 2, and she is using that power to appoint former city councilor Zack Filipovich to a seat on the DECC board that’s opening up at the end of the year. It’s a move by Larson that goes against the request of Mayor-Elect Roger Reinert. Last week, Reinert told…

DECC Exec. Dir.: $1M Line Of Credit Untouched, Year-Round Business Model Sought

December 10, 2023

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. — DECC Executive Director Dan Hartman gave an update Sunday on the venue’s struggling financing, saying he is proud to report the DECC has not used a dime of the $1 million emergency line of credit, which the city council reluctantly approved in September. Hartman said business has picked up, and it has been strong. The William A….

USW Local 9460 Rally Over Essentia Tech Workers’ Contract

December 10, 2023

Drew Kerner,

DULUTH, Minn. — Tech workers at Essentia Health rallied in Downtown Duluth Sunday afternoon, wanting what they call a new, fair contract agreement. The United Steelworker Local 9460 has been trying to reach an agreement with Essentia for the past six months. Click the video above for more. Meanwhile, Essentia Health released a statement Sunday: “Essentia Health and the United…

‘Northern Lights Drone Show’ Wows Crowds Over Lake Superior, Winds Cancel Day 2

Saturday's shows were canceled because of strong winds

December 10, 2023

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. – Saturday night’s strong winds canceled the Northern Lights Drone Show outside Fitger’s. But Friday’s show amazed crowds of people. The holiday show performed multiple times during the evening was put on by the North Shore Scenic Railroad and Fitger’s. 100 lighted drones took to the sky over Lake Superior forming animated scenes to music. Firefly, which created…

Santas Cross the Finish Line in Wild Santa Run

December 9, 2023

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. — Well, Santa Claus came to town Saturday, actually hundreds of Santas—for the annual Wild Santa Run at Wild State Cider. The Santas took over the Lincoln Park Craft District for the annual 5k that sees hundreds of runners every year, each one dressed as good ole’ Saint nick. Despite it raining during the last leg of the…

Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show Returns to DECC

December 9, 2023

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. — While it may not look like winter outside, many northlanders are gearing up for the upcoming ice fishing season. The 10th annual Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show returns to the DECC this weekend. Vendors sell different kinds of ice fishing gear, from rods, lures, ice shacks and plenty more. There is also plenty of craft and…

Suspects Arrested in Eveleth Kidnapping and Assault Case

December 8, 2023

Maria Vollom,

EVELETH, Minn. — Two men have been arrested in connection with a kidnapping and assault that took place over multiple days in Eveleth. Both have been booked into the St. Louis County Jail in Duluth. According to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the incident began on or around November 27th at a private residence on the city’s North end….

Northern Lights Express Gets Additional Money

December 8, 2023

Pat Brink,

DULUTH, Minn. — There is news that the Northern Lights Express passenger rail project between Duluth Superior and Minneapolis is getting federal funding for more planning. The Northern Light Express route is one of 47 projects that will each receive up to $500,000. The Minnesota DOT will use the money to update the work it completed in 2017. The money…

Proposed Passenger Train Between Duluth and Twin Cities Gets Limited Federal Funding

Northern Lights Express misses out on biggest chunk of federal funds announced Friday.

December 8, 2023

KQDS Staff,

Ten rail projects across the country received over $8 billion in funding Friday, but the proposed Northern Lights Express was not one of them. The Federal Railroad Administration announced its choices Friday. While not included in the major funding for projects, the Duluth/Superior to the Twin Cities proposal was among dozens of ideas that will receive much smaller funding of…

Coffee Conversation: Uke the Halls Holiday Show in Duluth

December 8, 2023

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — Katy Vernon & The Two Harbors Ukulele Group presents ‘Uke the Halls’ holiday show at Sacred Heart Music Center on Saturday, December 9. Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter Katy Vernon joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the event and its purpose. Vernon and the Two Harbors Ukulele Group will perform an evening of Christmas carols, holiday jingles,…

Live Nativity Scene Brings Joy to Benedictine Living Communinty

December 8, 2023

Pat Brink,

DULUTH, Minn. — It was a Christmas first for the Benedictine Living Community in Duluth. A donkey, sheep, dog and chickens made up the live nativity scene that was presented at Benedictine Living Community. In addition to the animals, 15 actors were brought in to play the various roles. The costumes were rounded up from churches and residents, The work…

Jury Finds Duluth Man Guilty In August Murder

December 8, 2023

KQDS Staff,

DULUTH, Minn. — A 25-year-old man has been found guilty for his involvement in the death of one person and injuring another in August. The St. Louis County Attorney’s Office says on Thursday, Brandon Capone Williams-Gillard was found guilty of Aiding and Abetting Second Degree Murder, Aiding and Abetting Second Degree Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Drive by Shooting….

On Stage Dec. 8-17: ‘A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol’

December 7, 2023

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. — If you like Charles Dickens’ famous “A Christmas Carol,” there’s a Minnesota spoof of the production hitting the stage in Duluth this weekend. “A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol” takes place Christmas Eve in Bunyan Bay, Minnesota. Jason Vincent, of Boat Club Productions, explains the rest! “So, the bar owner, Gunner Johnson, gets into a snowmobile accident…

International Falls Bridge Toll Increase, Community Members Concerned

December 7, 2023

Maria Vollom,

International Falls, Minn. — The International Bridge across the borderland of International Falls and Fort Frances has a new and higher price tag to cross, leaving some residents and local leaders concerned. The bridge is privately owned and the owners say the increase is necessary. For the people who live in International Falls and Fort Frances, the bridge between them…

Warm December In Duluth? Time For A Dip!

December 7, 2023

Emma Propp,

DULUTH, Minn. — Well one local really took advantage of the warmer temps Thursday, she swam in Lake Superior! Brenna Jordan, a Duluth resident is used to jumping in the cold lake, but days like this make it a lot easier. She says getting outside is great for you physically and mentally and encourages everyone to take advantage of the…

Radio DJs Annual Day of Giving Helps Second Harvest Food Bank

Midwest Communications Radio Stations Join Together with Super One Foods

December 7, 2023

Jenna VanSickle,

DULUTH, Minn. — If you shop at Super One Foods, you might have seen — and heard — some familiar voices near the check out lanes today. Radio DJs from some of the Northland’s most popular stations were at the Miller Hill location, inviting the community to donate to Second Harvest Food Bank. Midwest Communications Radio Operations Manager Rich Cannata…

Respiratory Virus Season

Immunization Season

December 7, 2023

Pat Brink,

DULUTH, Minn. — The St. Louis County Health Department reports the number of flu cases so far this year has been low. But doctors stress the flu will take over. And it’s not just the flu that we need to be concerned with, it is now called the “respiratory virus season.” Suzy Van Norman a Disease Prevention Public Health Nurse…

10th Annual Scholarship Awards Spread Holiday Cheer and Music

Northland Musicians and Bluebird Foundation Fundraise for Youth in Performing Arts

December 6, 2023

Jenna VanSickle,

Christmas music and the giving spirit filled the air at Clyde Iron Works earlier tonight. Northland artists, like Tom O’Hara, joined together to help the Bluebird Foundation spread holiday cheer. It was also the 10th Annual Scholarship Awards. It recognizes an outstanding student in the performing arts with a scholarship and also offers six different grants. The Holiday Celebration also…

Duluth Mayor-Elect Reinert On Inheriting 2024 Budget, Securing Leadership Team, Campaign Promises

December 6, 2023

Dan Hanger, Adam Jagunich,

DULUTH, Minn. – With one month to go before a change in office at Duluth City Hall, Duluth Mayor-Elect Roger Reinert is wrapping up his civilian life and securing a core leadership team to join him in January. Beyond that, he told FOX 21 how he’ll handle inheriting Mayor Emily Larson’s budget for 2024, and he addressed his critics who…

UMD Hosts Stressless Week To Help Students Decompress Before Finals

December 6, 2023

Jenna VanSickle,

DULUTH, Minn. — Finals season is fast approaching and UMD is taking a unique approach de-stressing. The Kathryn A. Martin Library is doing something you wouldn’t expect; encouraging students to tear books apart. In the week leading up to finals, the campus library is holding several book shredding events for pupils to release their anger and frustration. They’ve set aside…

Bemidji Schools Move To E-Learning Day Due To Threats

December 6, 2023

KQDS Staff,

BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji Schools are having an e-learning day Wednesday, due to a credible threat made to an ISD 31 school and a specific staff member. The Bemidji Police Department says Tuesday evening the Beltrami County Emergency Communications Center received several text-to-911 messages of a threat. They then recommended schools close for the day after not being able to…

Coffee Conversation: Zeitgeist Zinema Kicks Off Holiday Film Series

December 6, 2023

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — Zeitgeist Zinema presents a holiday film series now through the end of the month. Die Hard, Little Women and A Muppet Christmas Carol are the feature films. Zinema Manager Jody Kujawa joined FOX21 live on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the holiday showings. Die Hard will hit the Zinema screen one day only on Wednesday,…

Name A Snowplow Contest Is Back

December 5, 2023

KQDS Staff,

MINNESOTA — Looking for a way to make a creative impact this winter? The fourth annual MnDOT Name a Snowplow Contest is now open. Submit you most witty Minnesota- or winter-themed snowplow name ideas on mndot.gov now through Friday, December 15. A lucky snowplow in all eight districts will receive a new name voted on by the public. Previous winning…

Finally: Fall Graduation at Lake Superior College!

Many students with some fall classes remaining didn't have to wait for spring to celebrate.

December 4, 2023

Steve Goodspeed,

When it comes to graduation, many of us think of spring and the end of the school year. But for some college students, it’s the fall when they finally take that last class. Celebrating that is what brought students and faculty together at Lake Superior College Monday afternoon. Although there was a spring graduation ceremony, many students still had a…

Coffee Conversation: Night Riders Snowmobile Club Fundraiser Dinner

December 4, 2023

Maria Vollom,

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — The Night Riders Snowmobile Club is preparing to host its annual fundraising dinner and silent auction. Chris Jacobson joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Monday to talk about the event and its purpose. The dinner is taking place on Thursday, December 14 at the Buffalo House Event Center. Tickets are $40 person. Click here for more information. Categories: Coffee…

Julebyen, Centuries Old Traditions Still Celebrated

December 3, 2023

Drew Kerner,

KNIFE RIVER, Minn. — “It’s a small community. It started off as a fishing village. A lot of Scandinavian residents got it started and that trend has continued,” said Chair of Julebyen Helene Hedlund. Knife River celebrated ten years of Julebyen, an event which translate to “Christmas Village.” Both Scandinavian and German traditions kept alive in the community through the…

Hundreds Flock to Winter Village for Festive Shopping

December 3, 2023

Drew Kerner,

DULUTH, Minn. — The lack of snow and comfortable temperatures had people out and about at the Duluth Winter Village at the DECC. Local businesses, a majority from Canal Park and Lincoln Park, sat along the Irvin in wooden cabins for the last day of the winter village. Wintergreen Northern Wear was there for it’s second year setting up a…

Chickens Killed In Barn Fire

December 3, 2023

Dan Hanger,

FLOODWOOD TOWNSHIP, Minn. — A barn fire killed several chickens in Floodwood Township Saturday evening. St. Louis County Sheriff Office deputies and area fire departments responded around 6:15 p.m. The barn is a total loss. No people were injured. The cause is under investigation, but authorities do not suspect foul play. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News, Public Safety

Man Dies In Landslide at Minnesota State Park

December 3, 2023

The Associated Press,

Courtesy: Associated Press File MANKATO, Minn. — A 19-year-old man became trapped and died as a result of a landslide at a state park in southern Minnesota. The Blue Earth County Sheriff’s Office received a call Saturday afternoon of a landslide trapping someone under collapsed earth at the falls area of Minneopa State Park, near Mankato. Emergency workers recovered the…

Duluth Library Kicking Off Winter Fun

December 2, 2023

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Public Library is kicking off it’s winter fun with various events and a reading program. Saturday the library hosted an event based off an Icelandic tradition, where kids and family could enjoy crafts, gift wrapping and of course book reading. The winter reading program also kicked off. The program promotes reading by letting anyone track…

Hmong New Year Celebrated in Duluth

December 2, 2023

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. –Duluth community members gathered Saturday to celebrate the Hmong New Year at Coppertop Church. It has been nearly 50 years since Hmong in Minnesota began resettling in the United States after being refugees from the Vietnam War. Now a Hmong New Year celebration is hosted each year in Duluth. The event was free and open to the public….

Bentleyville Stays Open Late for Special “After Hours” Event

December 1, 2023

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. — For its 20th season, Bentleyville is changing things up to celebrate the holidays. For the first time ever, Bentleyville is hosted a special “After Hours” event Friday night. Everyone ages 21 and older could purchase a wristband and take a walk through the “Tour of Lights” while enjoying an alcoholic beverage. Different artists will be taking stage…

Duluth Police Department Welcomes Nine New Officers

December 1, 2023

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Police Department welcomed nine new police officers, aiding the departments current officer shortage. The recruits were sworn in during a ceremony this afternoon. Family and friends pinned each new officers badge onto their uniforms. Duluth Chief of Police, Mike Ceynowa says since Fall of 2022, the department has added 18 officers to its staff, which…

2024 Duluth Lawn And Sport ALS Circle Tour Raising Awareness

December 1, 2023

Emma Propp,

DULUTH, Minn. — In 1999 a group of 4 men went on a snowmobile ride fundraising for those fighting ALS. Now, a new group is recreating that original ride. A year after that snowmobile fundraiser, a group of people got together to form what is now the Black Woods Blizzard Tour. To celebrate 25 years of raising awareness and funds…

Floating Sauna to Open Saturday in Duluth

December 1, 2023

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — You may have taken a sauna before, but have you experienced one from on top of Lake Superior? Well, you can do just that beginning on Saturday, December 2. Cedar and Stone Nordic Sauna presents a 10 person floating sauna experience located on the harbor at Pier B. While enjoying the sauna, you’ll see a view of…

Agreement Reached For Sale of KQDS-TV, FOX21

December 1, 2023

KQDS Staff,

Duluth, MN – The owners of KQDS-TV, FOX21, have entered into an agreement for the sale of the station. Red River Broadcast Co., LLC has signed an asset purchase agreement with Coastal Television. Coastal Television operates ten television stations in seven states; Alaska, Wyoming, New York, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas and Indiana. “We think Coastal will be a good fit for…

YWCA Young Mothers Program Receives Grant

December 1, 2023

Pat Brink,

DULUTH, Minn. — The YWCA Duluth’s Spirit Valley Young Mothers Program works with homeless mothers who are between the ages of 16 and 21. Each at-risk mother and their child who are a part of the program live at the YWCA for a year to a year and a half. While in the mentoring program mothers receive stable housing and…

4 People Arrested On Drug Charges In Duluth

December 1, 2023

KQDS Staff,

DULUTH, Minn. — 4 people have been arrested in Duluth Thursday afternoon on drug charges. According to the Duluth Police Department, the Lake Superior Violent Offender Task Force, along with other agencies executed search warrants at two different houses in Duluth. Police say during the search, 864.4 grams of fentanyl, 858.3 grams of methamphetamine, a little over 100 fentanyl pills,…

Duluth Firefighters Tackle Downtown Garage Fire

November 30, 2023

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. – Northland firefighters have been busy lately responding to structure fires. In Duluth Thursday, firefighters tackled a garage fire on the 100 block of East Third Street. No injuries were reported. Damage is estimated around $10,000. The Duluth Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating a cause. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News, Public Safety

An Infectious Canine Respiratory Illness Spreads Throughout The Country

November 30, 2023

Lucretia Free,

DULUTH, Min. –Dr. Scott Beeman, a veterinarian at Duluth Veterinary Hospital, has devoted his life to working with animals. He says it is important to remember that during this time of year any respiratory illness is common. However, he noted there is an increase in cases, along with some that are significantly more severe and long lasting. “This has been…

‘Essentia East Market’ Healthcare Workers Want To Unionize

November 29, 2023

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia healthcare workers have announced their filing to join the Minnesota Nurses Association. The healthcare workers wanting to unionize include nurse practitioners, physician associates, nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists. They’re part of what’s called the Essentia East Market, which extends from Brainerd north to International Falls and Duluth, and east to Ashland and Hayworth, Wisconsin. The…

Chlorine Gas Issue Forces Proctor Hotel Evacuation

November 29, 2023

Dan Hanger,

PROCTOR, Minn. — A chlorine gas issue forced an evacuation of a hotel in Proctor Wednesday. The incident happened around 11 a.m. at the AmericInn at 185 Highway 2. The Proctor and Duluth fire departments responded. Officials said the gas was caused by an apparent mixing of cleaning chemicals in a drain, which created a chlorine gas. Pressure fans were…

Hermantown Fire Evolves Past Volunteer Model

The Department continued growth by hiring a fire inspector and training officer

November 29, 2023

Jenna VanSickle,

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — The Hermantown Fire Department is expanding its efforts to better serve the community. Over the past year, the City has been making changes to the volunteer firefighting model. That system has been in place for more than 70 years. But as Hermantown grows, the Fire Department is looking to not only increase efficiency, but support their firefighters….

Minnesota Duluth Mourns Death of Football Player Reed Ryan

In celebration of Reed's life, a memorial wake will be held on Friday, December 1 followed by a funeral service on Saturday, December 2.

November 29, 2023

Maria Vollom, Neil Vierzba,

DULUTH, Minn. — University of Minnesota Duluth football senior defensive lineman Reed Ryan passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at Essentia Health in Duluth at the age of 22. Ryan collapsed in the team’s weight room back on November 21st. He would fight for his life for a week before passing just short of midnight on Tuesday. Photo Courtesy: University…

Coffee Conversation: DSA Community Foundation Scholarship Opportunities

November 29, 2023

Maria Vollom,

TWIN PORTS — Beginning on December 1, the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation will have $800,000 available for scholarships across the Northland. Community Impact Specialist Amber Burns joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about scholarship opportunities and the application process. Scholarships support students and job seekers who are pursuing post-secondary education throughout the region. High school seniors…

Construction Returns To Duluth Housing Project With ‘Cash,’ No Financing

November 28, 2023

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. – FOX 21 learned Tuesday that construction crews are back on site of a delayed housing development (Urbane 218) in Duluth’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. But the final piece of funding from LISC, which halted the project in August, is still not in the developer’s hands. Merge Urban Development told FOX 21 Tuesday the company is “currently paying for…

Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank Plays Critical Role in Helping Feed Those in Need

November 28, 2023

Pat Brink,

DULUTH, Minn. –The nationwide Giving Tuesday event took place on Tuesday, one week after the Minnesota version, Give to the Max, fundraiser took place. Shaye Moris, the Executive Director of Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank, says the Give to the Max fundraiser went well. “Give to the Max Day was really successful. We had a five percent increase over…

Native American’s Flag Design is a Finalist for New Minnesota Flag

November 28, 2023

Pat Brink,

CLOQUET, Minn. –The days are numbered for the current Minnesota state flag that’s been in place since 1957. The State Emblems Redesign Commission has narrowed the choice for a new state flag to six designs from the more than 2,600 hundred designs submitted. One of the final designs is by a Native American woman in Cloquet. “The absolute most important…

Apricot Lane Relocates and Opens Larger Store

November 28, 2023

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. — Apricot Lane Boutique is a franchise with dozens of stores around the country, but Duluth’s own Apricot Lane is one of a kind. “I hand pick, along with our team all of the merchandise that comes into our store. So, we’re able to change things up really fast, if something doesn’t work for us, we can try…

Twin Ports Grad Sharing Naval Academy Experience

Talks to students about his desire to serve his country, as well as the opportunities.

November 27, 2023

KQDS Staff,

Rising global tension has put a spotlight on armed forces around the world. Some of those currently training to serve were among college students who were home for the Thanksgiving weekend. Kai Braaten grew up in the Twin Ports and is now a Midshipman Third Class at the United States Naval Academy. He said a primary goal for him was…