Douglas County Archives

Douglas County Public Health Reports Rapid Rise in New COVID-19 Infections

In the Past 30 Days, 11 Residents Have Been Hospitalized with COVID-19 in Douglas County

January 12, 2022

Brett Scott,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Douglas County Public Health is reporting a steady rise in new COVID-19 cases, with reports coming from PCR and rapid testing. Throughout the month of December, the health department reported 439 cases. In the first two weeks of 2022, the department has reported 349 new cases. Officials say the virus is spreading throughout all ages, however, more…

Superior Chamber & Visitor Bureau Receives Large Grant

The bureau hopes to receive the funds by the end of the month.

November 16, 2021

Reece Lindquist,

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers recently awarded $15 million in grants to local tourism organizations. The Superior-Douglas County Visitor Bureau will be receiving more than $135,000. The bureau is one of several dozen organizations recognized in the grant which puts tourism as a priority in the state as travel is a priority for many people again. “We are…

Douglas County Excited for Tourism Comeback After Pandemic Dip

According to the Department of Tourism's report travelers to Douglas County spent $82.7 million in direct visitor spending last year -- a 22% dip from 2019.

May 3, 2021

Arman Rahman,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- New numbers just released on Wisconsin’s tourism last year show a dip in visitor spending due to the pandemic. But Douglas County tourism officials look toward the future excited for a comeback. “A lot of other areas are experiencing tourism impacts of much more than that,” said Taylor Pedersen, President and CEO of Travel Superior. “So we’re excited…

Vaccine Clinic Opens at Wessman Arena

The clinic is located on the UW-Superior campus at Wessman arena in partnership with AMI Healthcare.

April 13, 2021

Reece Lindquist,

SUPERIOR, Wisc.-A new community vaccination clinic has opened in Superior. It’s the first of its kind in Northwest Wisconsin. The clinic is located on the UW-Superior campus at Wessman Arena in partnership with AMI Healthcare. This arena has the capacity to vaccinate 500 people per day. “It is safe. People may be hesitant to be around others. But you’re still…

UPDATE: Outages Restored; 911 Disruption in Douglas County, Wisconsin

April 12, 2021

Brett Scott,

UPDATE: The 911 outages affecting Northwest Wisconsin have been restored. SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Douglas County 9-1-1 system is currently not functioning. If you have an emergency and you live within the city of Superior and have local phone service, attempt to call 715-394-4432. If you do not have phone service you will need to stop at any one of…

Wisconsin Expands Vaccine Eligibility

As of today, 34% of Douglas County residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

April 5, 2021

Reece Lindquist,

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Today, Wisconsinites 16 years and older now are eligible to receive a Covid-19 vaccine. With Governor Tony Evers making the announcement, Wisconsin residents now have an increased eligibility to get vaccinated. As of today, 34% of Douglas County residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine. Health officials say they are prepared for more members…

Covid-19 Vaccines Distributed Throughout Wisconsin

Almost 50,000 doses were given to eight hubs throughout the state of Wisconsin so far this week to a small amount of healthcare providers.

December 16, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

MADISON, Wisc. – According to Wisconsin’s Department of Health, thousands of vaccines have been distributed across the state. Almost 50,000 doses were given to eight hubs throughout the state of Wisconsin so far this week to a small amount of healthcare providers. So far, almost two hundred vaccines have been administered, but how the vaccine will be administered in nursing…

Wisconsin Lawmakers Launch “Vote Safe” Initiative

July 21, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin Lawmakers gathered to raise awareness about voting safely in state for the upcoming presidential election. Both the current, and former attorney general of Wisconsin were on the virtual call Tuesday morning. Although they did not disclose how they would go about making in-person voting safe, the goal of the initiative is to bring a better understanding…

Duluth Trails Open After Freeze/Thaw, No Plans to Close Beaches So Far

Walkers, runners and bikers flock to their favorite trails.

May 4, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- Just in time for the nice weather, Duluth Parks and Recreation announced that most of the city’s multi-use natural surface trails are now open after being closed due to wet conditions. “It’s been a long time coming this spring,” said Parks and Rec Trail Cooridinator Matt Andrews. “We’ve all been patiently waiting for these trails to open up….

U.S., Wisconsin Supreme Courts Rule Against Evers; Election Day Stands

The Governor's attempts to change or postpone the election have been blocked on all fronts.

April 6, 2020

Arman Rahman,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- After going through three changes in the span of one day, Wisconsin Elections will carry on as normal. Rulings from both the Wisconsin and U.S. Supreme Courts now make Wisconsin the only state with an election scheduled in April that is proceeding as planned. Governor Tony Evers signed an Executive Order early Monday postponing the election to June….

New COVID-19 Cases in St. Louis, Douglas Counties

Experts say while it's not confirmed, they are sure there is community spread.

March 23, 2020

Arman Rahman,

The cases of Coronavirus continue to climb in the Northland. A second case has been discovered in St. Louis County, along with three others in Douglas County, bringing the total there to four–with one case in Superior. There remains one confirmed case in Bayfield County The newest case in St. Louis County is a woman in her early 60s who…

St. Louis County Officials Confirm First Coronavirus Case in the County

Officials said it is a woman in her late 60s, who contracted the virus via domestic travel.

March 21, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- Officials have announced the first confirmed COVID-19 case in St. Louis County. Along with one in Bayfield County and one in Douglas County, the total cases in the Northland are now three. According to County officials, the patient in St. Louis County has not had contact with anyone outside her close relatives and is recovering at home. “While…

Whooping Cough Found in Superior Schools

Health officials say to watch children for symptoms.

January 23, 2020

Arman Rahman,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Three confirmed cases of whooping cough have been found between Superior Middle and High Schools, and other cases are pending. The Pertussis virus leads to a harsh cough which could stop breathing in some younger children, causing health officials to urge parents to keep watch. Whooping cough first shows as common cold symptoms before manifesting in a violent…

Upcoming 5K Run, Walk to Benefit Douglas County Soldiers and Sailors Relief Fund

Running for Our Heroes 5K Run/Walk is Happening Saturday, September 28 on the Campus of UW-Superior

September 20, 2019

Brett Scott,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Superior is hosting the 6th annual Running for Our Heroes 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, September 28, at 9:00 a.m. The event is hosted by UW-Superior’s Veteran and Nontraditional Student Center (VNSC) and Douglas County Veteran Services. “It’s been great to see this event grow,” said Monte Stewart, the VNSC Student Services Coordinator. “We’ve made…

Superior Council Unanimously Passes Ban on Conversion Therapy in City

Over 20 members of the community spoke in support of the ban, while Councilor shares emotional personal story.

August 20, 2019

Arman Rahman,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior City Council has voted unanimously to enact a city-wide ban on Conversion Therapy for anyone under 18. “I want people of all genders and sexualities to believe that they have a place in Superior.” These proclamations echoed throughout the packed city council meeting Tuesday as dozens of members of the community came to speak, seemingly all…

After Repairs Head of Lakes Fair Opens for Season

Fair week kicks off with Sneak a Peek Night Tuesday.

July 16, 2019

Arman Rahman,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Head of the Lakes Fair in Superior opened for the year, offering rides, a horse show, a beef auction, and more over the next five days. This comes with major repairs completed after Douglas County conducted an inspection, revealing issues like Asbestos. Now, they say those issues have been taken care of. “We’re looking forward to a…

Encouraging Conversation for Elder Abuse Awareness Month

Conversation Regarding Elder Abuse Awareness is Encouraged Throughout the Month of June

June 19, 2019

Brett Scott,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day takes place annually on June 15, as the world recognizes Elder Abuse Month. It’s an international observance, coming to be as a result of UN resolution 66/127. With a rapidly growing global population of seniors, and as longevity increases, abuse of the elderly is an increasing reality affecting health and human rights….

Narcan or Not? Law Enforcement Agencies Vary on Approach to Overdoses

While Donations and Grants Make Narcan Easily Accessible For Police, Some Choose Not to Use It

May 30, 2019

Nikki Davidson,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The number of people dying from opioid overdose in the Northland is not slowing down. Five people died in the Duluth area in January alone, and across the bridge in Superior overdose calls are becoming more frequent – and often police officers are the first ones on scene. Now, even the smaller law enforcement agencies are now faced…

Fighting Back on the Issues Veterans Face

Veterans affairs says 50 to 60 percent of Veterans don't reach out when they return home

May 7, 2019

Ryan Compeau,

SUPERIOR, Wisc.- Douglas County non-profits gathered at the Bong Center in Superior today to host a forum on how to fight back against the many issues Veterans face. The event sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs had experts on hand discussing a variety of issues including alcohol addiction or even housing or billing help. People in these non-profits…

Douglas County Tourism See’s Dramatic Rise

Visitor spending up almost ten percent compared to the previous year

May 6, 2019

Ryan Compeau,

SUPERIOR, Wisc.- Tourism business sales in Douglas County topped nearly one hundred fifty million dollars in 2018. With visitor spending up almost ten percent compared to the previous year. That’s according to a report released today from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. Local leadership say the increase is due to a number of factors, including new retail developments in Superior’s…

Ash Borer Update

The third case of Ash Borer has been discovered in Douglas County

May 6, 2019

Ryan Compeau,

HIGHLAND, Wisc.- Concern tonight after the discovery of a new Emerald Ash Borer infestation in Douglas County, this time in the town of Highland. The Highland infestation was found by a utility tree crew, and brings the affected areas in the county to three joining the City of Superior and Amnicon Falls State Park. Experts believe people bringing firewood into…

Potential Rain and Warmth Could Mean Flooding

Northland Agencies Prepare for Flooding.

March 11, 2019

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- Normally the first rainfall this time of year means spring is upon us. But being under this much snow with warmer temperatures, means it can spell out trouble, in the form of flooding. “The old saying is ‘turn around, don’t drown.’” That message is what Keith Kesler of Douglas County Emergency Management is advising drivers this week. “I…

Superior Business Center to Get New Management

City of Superior and Douglas County handing over management

February 12, 2019

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- Meanwhile the Superior Business Center off Hammond avenue could soon be returned to the hands of the Development Association. For the last five years the site has been managed by the City and Douglas County. City officials say they hope it is again used as a place for businesses to get on their feet. “Kinda turning it back…

Superior Officials, Leaders Raise Awareness for Domestic Violence

October Serves as Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October 2, 2018

Brett Scott,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Tuesday morning, the Center Against Sexual and Domestic Violence (CASDA) came together with city officials and residents of the community to recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The event kicked off in the atrium of the Government Center in Superior. Superior Mayor Jim Paine presented a mayoral proclamation at 10:00 a.m. followed by guest speakers addressing how the Twin…

Man Charged in Bar Fight Involving Superior City Councilors

Court documents say punches started flying after two intoxicated bar patrons harrassed people, used explict language, and made negative comments about non–union workers.

August 28, 2018

Lauren Leigh,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Criminal charges are now filed against a Summit, Wisconsin man after a bar fight that involved two Superior city councilors. The fight happened outside Jimmy’s Saloon in Billings Park — a bar owned by council president Keith Kern who is a victim in this case. Court documents say punches started flying after two intoxicated bar patrons harassed people, used explicit language, and…

Douglas County Receives New Voting Machines

The new machines will be used in the upcoming elections.

July 24, 2018

Lauren Leigh,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Two new voting machines in Douglas County will be used in the upcoming elections. Not much will change for voters but city officials say the new technology helps keep track of votes easier. The machines are replacing 15 year–old equipment. “If someone made a very light mark there was a chance in the past that the scanner might…

Douglas County Recovering From Flooding

Tending to these repairs may postpone some county projects due to limited funds and resources.

June 19, 2018

Lauren Leigh,

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Wis.- Some roads remain closed in Douglas County due to flooding. Officials with Douglas County tell us it may take some time before they reopen. Highways across the county remain largely affected by the heavy rainfall this past weekend. Although high water levels are dying down the Douglas County Board Chairman Mark Liebaert tells FOX 21 some clear roadways…

Douglas County Historical Society Opens New Exhibits

June 6, 2018

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – Summer is a busy time of year and the Douglas County Historical Society has been busy preparing for it. The Executive Director of the Douglas County Historical Society has been busy preparing for the season. First, there is a new exhibit case at the Douglas County Court House that is from the DCHS. It commemorates the Calvin…

DCHS History Sunday Features “NOTHiNG”

Douglas County Historical Society Brings Back History Sunday

March 16, 2018

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Douglas County Historical Society is bringing back History Sunday events. This weekend, you can learn all about NOTHiNG. NOTHiNG was a plastic container with nothing in it. The gift box was a local sensation that was in response to the pet rock craze. The box was created by two local radio disc jockeys, Dale Botten and…

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker Visits Superior

Gov. Walker addressed health care and sales tax rebate.

January 27, 2018

Lauren Leigh,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Governor walker traveled to the Northland Saturday meeting with the Republican Party of Douglas County. The Republican Party of Douglas County held its annual Lincoln Day dinner in Superior. Governor Walker spoke to on-goers addressing issues, including what he hopes for the future of healthcare. “Affirms that preexisting conditions will be covered in the State of Wisconsin,” Gov….

Talents of Young Musicians Featured at Upcoming Christmas Musicale

DCHS Hosts 2nd Annual Christmas Musicale

December 20, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The talents of local youth are being featured in a concert this weekend in Superior. The Douglas County Historical Society is hosting the 2nd Annual Christmas Musicale. The performance is taking place Friday, December 22 at 7:00 p.m. This year, musicians Austin Engelhardt & Gabrielle Koepke a Violin Virtuoso Duo, The Soul Sisters, Izzy Bromdahl and the…

Texas Puppies to Find New Homes in the Northland

More than a Dozen Puppies are Headed to the Douglas County Humane Society

December 6, 2017

Brett Scott,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – In the coming days, the Douglas County Humane Society will be receiving a litter of perfect presents just in time for the holidays. The shelter announcing earlier this week they will be receiving anywhere from seven to 17 dogs. The animals are being transferred to the Twin Ports from Texas. Right now, the shelter only has two…

Douglas County Historical Society Celebrates Halloween with Movies and Play

Historical Society Hosts Vintage Movie Night and One-Woman Show

October 23, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Halloween is just about a week away and the Douglas County Historical Society is celebrating with two fun events. The first is the Annual Monsterrific Halloween Movie Night being held Wednesday, October 25 at 6:30 p.m. The vintage movie night will feature popcorn, punch, cookies and candy. All of this is free to attend. Second, the historical…

Masquerade Ball Supports Harbor House Crisis Shelters

Saturday: Angels and Demons Masquerade Ball

October 10, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This weekend some folks in the Twin Ports will be dressing up for Halloween and a good cause. Rev. Barbara Certa-Werner visited FOX 21 to chat about the upcoming Angels and Demons Masquerade Ball. The night of music and fun benefits the Harbor House Crisis Shelters. The event is taking place on Saturday, October 14 at 6:30…

Craft Sale Benefits Local Food Shelves

Saturday: Annual HCE Craft Sale

October 6, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This weekend you can collect some cool crafts for a good cause. The HCE (Douglas County Association for Home and Community Education) Annual Craft Sale is Saturday, October 7 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. You can find it at the Head of the Lakes Fairgrounds in the multipurpose building, which is located at 4700 Tower Ave.,…

Douglas County Historical Society Welcomes “The Reading Room”

Twin Ports Residents will have Two Chances to See "The Reading Room"

September 28, 2017

Brett Scott,

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Direct from Finland, the Douglas County Historical Society welcomes the Fiasko Theatre with the presentation of “The Reading Room” written by Ann Toumi. The Finish National Theater Company will present “The Reading Room” at the Douglas County Historical Society located at 1101 John Avenue in Superior on Thursday, September 28. Twin Ports residents will have the chance…

Historical Society Brings Past to Life within Cemetery

3rd Annual Living History Walk is Saturday

September 14, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This weekend the history of Douglas County is coming to life in a place reserved for the dead. The Living History Walk is Saturday, September 16 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. The walk will be at the Greenwood Cemetery, 8402 Tower Avenue Superior, WI 54880. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the gate, $7 Veterans, $5…

19th Annual Cause for the Paws Fundraiser Happening Saturday

All Proceeds will Benefit the Humane Socitey of Douglas County

September 6, 2017

Brett Scott,

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Furry friends will guide their humans along the Osaugie Trail in Superior Saturday, September 9 at 9:00 a.m. The 19th Annual Cause for the Paws Walk/Run will be raising funds to support the shelter. Money raised goes toward medical costs, food and other various expenses at the shelter. Animals are welcome to tag along for the walk/run. A…

El Dorado Bar Gears Up for Fifth Annual Veterans Fundraiser

100 Percent of the Proceeds from Saturdays Fundraiser Benefit Local Homeless Veterans

July 31, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – Preps are underway for the fifth-annual Veterans Benefit. It’s happening this Saturday at the El Dorado Bar and Grill in the Village of Oliver. A walk will start at 10 a.m. followed by the benefit, horseshoe tournament, raffles and pig roast. 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit local homeless veterans. Todd Pfeffer, Owner of the El Dorado Bar…

Douglas County History: The Story Behind Charles Starkweather

Former Superior Mayor Impeached Just to Become Mayor Again

June 27, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A one-time mayor of Superior, Wisconsin had an unlikely path to the mayor’s office and an uncommon exit as well. Charles Starkweather, originally from Vermont, moved to Superior in 1889. He was elected to the common council in 1893 and became the city’s mayor two years later. Starkweather was impeached because he allowed salloons to have unlicensed…

One-Woman Show Remembers Laura Ingalls Wilder

Coffee Conversation: Douglas County Historical Society History Theatre

June 12, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This weekend a famous pioneer is being remembered through a one-woman show. The Douglas County Historical Society History Theatre is presenting “Laura Ingalls Wilder.” Jessica Michna is starring in the play. “Laura Ingalls Wilder” will be presented for one performance only; Saturday, June 17 at 7 pm. Tickets are $15 and are now on sale, by phone…

Superior Once Predicted to be “Next Chicago”

Northland Uncovered: Superior the Boom Town?

May 16, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Today, the Twin Ports is a thriving harbor, but years ago the city of Superior was predicted to be the “next Chicago.” Executive Director of the Douglas County Historical Society, Tony Tracy, says the population was once even at 40,000 compared to the nearly 27,000 today. Tracy says the enthusiasm for the city started back in the 1600s….

Over Fifty Cats Rescued from Superior Residence

Officials with Douglas County Humane Society are Working to Clean, Vaccinate, and Find Homes for the Cats

March 13, 2017

Brett Scott,

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – The Douglas County Humane Society is seeing an influx of cats calling the shelter home recently. First discovered by authorities in December, a Superior residence was housing dozens of cats. Officials say the owner eventually agreed to surrender the animals. Staff at the Humane Society say they have rescued more than 50 feline friends since the middle…

Native American History on Display in Superior

New Exhibit Opens at Douglas County Historical Society

February 21, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A new exhibit is opening up at the Douglas County Historical Society highlighting Native American culture in our area. The planning for this exhibit began when a Dugout Canoe was discovered in storage in 2015. The canoe was actually donated in 1939 and was found to be authentic Dakota. On Saturday, February 25th at 11 a.m. the…

Douglas County

In the Past 30 Days, 11 Residents Have Been Hospitalized with COVID-19 in Douglas County

The bureau hopes to receive the funds by the end of the month.

According to the Department of Tourism's report travelers to Douglas County spent $82.7 million in direct visitor spending last year -- a 22% dip from 2019.

The clinic is located on the UW-Superior campus at Wessman arena in partnership with AMI Healthcare.

As of today, 34% of Douglas County residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

Almost 50,000 doses were given to eight hubs throughout the state of Wisconsin so far this week to a small amount of healthcare providers.

Walkers, runners and bikers flock to their favorite trails.

The Governor's attempts to change or postpone the election have been blocked on all fronts.

Experts say while it's not confirmed, they are sure there is community spread.

Officials said it is a woman in her late 60s, who contracted the virus via domestic travel.

Health officials say to watch children for symptoms.

Running for Our Heroes 5K Run/Walk is Happening Saturday, September 28 on the Campus of UW-Superior

Over 20 members of the community spoke in support of the ban, while Councilor shares emotional personal story.

Fair week kicks off with Sneak a Peek Night Tuesday.

Conversation Regarding Elder Abuse Awareness is Encouraged Throughout the Month of June

While Donations and Grants Make Narcan Easily Accessible For Police, Some Choose Not to Use It

Veterans affairs says 50 to 60 percent of Veterans don't reach out when they return home

Visitor spending up almost ten percent compared to the previous year

The third case of Ash Borer has been discovered in Douglas County

Northland Agencies Prepare for Flooding.

City of Superior and Douglas County handing over management

October Serves as Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Court documents say punches started flying after two intoxicated bar patrons harrassed people, used explict language, and made negative comments about non–union workers.

The new machines will be used in the upcoming elections.

Tending to these repairs may postpone some county projects due to limited funds and resources.

Douglas County Historical Society Brings Back History Sunday

Gov. Walker addressed health care and sales tax rebate.

DCHS Hosts 2nd Annual Christmas Musicale

More than a Dozen Puppies are Headed to the Douglas County Humane Society

Historical Society Hosts Vintage Movie Night and One-Woman Show

Saturday: Angels and Demons Masquerade Ball

Saturday: Annual HCE Craft Sale

Twin Ports Residents will have Two Chances to See "The Reading Room"

3rd Annual Living History Walk is Saturday

All Proceeds will Benefit the Humane Socitey of Douglas County

100 Percent of the Proceeds from Saturdays Fundraiser Benefit Local Homeless Veterans

Former Superior Mayor Impeached Just to Become Mayor Again

Coffee Conversation: Douglas County Historical Society History Theatre

Northland Uncovered: Superior the Boom Town?

Officials with Douglas County Humane Society are Working to Clean, Vaccinate, and Find Homes for the Cats

New Exhibit Opens at Douglas County Historical Society

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