News – Latest News

Some Businesses Expand Hours Amidst Coronavirus

Duluth Best Bread has doubled business during the pandemic.

DULUTH, Minn. – Some businesses have expanded their hours amidst the coronavirus to meet demand. Duluth Best Bread, located on W. 3rd Street in Duluth, has doubled business during the pandemic. It is now open from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bread is sold through the store’s front window. “During the pandemic, I think a lot…

Superior Councilor Keith Kern Running for 73rd Assembly District

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Keith Kern, member of the Superior City Council and small business owner, announced his candidacy to represent the 73rd Assembly District on Friday afternoon. “Growing up in Superior, my parents taught me the value of community and hard,” said Kern “those values have served me well as a small business owner and member of the city council,…

Essentia Health Expands COVID-19 Testing

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health is expanding its COVID-19 testing criteria to now include all patients who have symptoms. The hospital announced on Friday that the change is effective immediately at all of its sites in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. Essentia says anyone experiencing symptoms should first start an E-Visit at EssentiaHealth.org. During the visit, a provider can evaluate…

Minnesota Gov. Walz Unveils New COVID-19 Testing Website

(courtesy: Fox 9) ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announced a new website on Friday which is aimed at helping Minnesotans find a testing location in their community. “Access to COVID-19 testing is critical to moving Minnesota forward during this pandemic,” Governor Walz said. “This tool will help make our widespread testing initiative accessible to all Minnesotans, and…

Another 21 in Minnesota Die from Coronavirus Complications

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota health officials said Friday another 21 people have died of coronavirus complications, matching the highest one-day death toll announced Thursday. The Department of Health also said there are 243 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, raising Minnesota’s total to 3,185. State data shows the largest percentage of cases involved people age 20 to 44. The department’s Public…

Trump Signs $484 Billion Measure to Aid Employers, Hospitals

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump has signed a nearly $500 billion coronavirus aid package into law, the latest federal government effort to stimulate a reeling economy and overwhelmed hospitals. The legislation is the fourth coronavirus relief bill passed by Congress. All told, Congress has delivered at least $2.4 trillion for business relief, testing and treatment, and direct payments to individuals…

Wisconsin Democrats Pick Janet Bewley as Senate Minority Leader

(courtesy: wisconsin.gov) MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Democrats in the Wisconsin state Senate chose Janet Bewley as their new leader Friday as they gear up to try to recapture control of the chamber in November. Bewley replaces Jennifer Shilling, who announced earlier this month that she won’t seek re-election this fall. Shilling said Tuesday she would step down as minority leader,…

Midday Update 4-24-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, April 24, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, April 24, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Early Morning House Fire in Cook Causes ‘Extensive Damage’

(courtesy: Northland FireWire) COOK, Minn. – According to the Northland FireWire, multiple fire crews battled a house fire Friday morning in Angora. The fire was reported around 6:30 a.m. Friday in the 8900 block of Highway 1. The FireWire reported that the home ‘appeared to have extensive damage.’ No injuries were reported. Fire crews from Cook, Pike-Sandy-Britt, Vermillion Lake, Lake…

HealthPartners Furloughs 2,600 Employees

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (AP) — Another prominent health care provider is furloughing 2,600 employees as the coronavirus cuts into revenue. HealthPartners, the second-largest nonprofit group in the state, operates seven hospitals, dozens of clinics, and a health insurance business. COVID-19 has eliminated elective surgeries and created some financial challenges for health care groups. Earlier this month Minnesota’s largest nonprofit group, the Mayo…

Morning Update 4-24-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, April 24, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, April 24, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Data Being Collected to Get Insight into Northland Employment

The Extension is collecting data about business expansion that will help leaders gain further insight into how they can help Northlanders.

New unemployment numbers were released by the U.S. government, showing that about 26 million people have filed for unemployment, which is the worst its been since the Great Depression. Locally, analysts are also compiling data to learn more about the Northland’s economic situation. Economic experts from the University of Minnesota Extension say 17 percent of workers, which is more than…

Duluth Police Chief Talks COVID-19, Community Engagement, Budget

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department is continuing to work under unprecedented times during the pandemic. Chief Mike Tusken says his patrol officers are working 12-hour shifts for five days on and 15 days off to allow an officer to potentially develop symptoms of COVID-19 before returning to work. “We do believe that the greatest threat we have in…

Superior-Douglas Co. Chamber CEO Furloughs Self, Staff

It's a move the chamber hasn't made before in its 137-year history.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Superior-Douglas County Area Chamber of Commerce has temporarily laid off most of its staff because of the financial strain from the pandemic. It’s a move the chamber hasn’t made before in its 137-year history. Chamber President/CEO Taylor Pedersen told FOX 21 the decision to furlough was tough but a responsible one so his team can be strong…

Hermantown Robotics Team Builds Earsavers

HERMANTOWN, Minn.– The Hermantown robotics team has been using their time away from school to help out the best way they know how. With robotics. “We’re helping the community even though we’re stuck at home,” said robotics student Jonah Wright. The Hermantown Cyberhawks are making what they call earsavers. It’s a piece of plastic that people wearing masks can use…

Summer Events at Bayfront in Limbo due to Pandemic

Officials, event organizers and acts are all looking at other ways to hopefully bring their art to fans.

DULUTH, Minn.- The COVID-19 pandemic has left musical acts and festivals at Bayfront Festival Park in unprecedented uncertainty–forcing organizers and artists to explore different ways to give fans an experience if shows are a no-go. Bayfront has become synonymous with summer fun, filling up every season with concert-goers, food lovers, and fireworks. But the empty, bleak park you see right…

Golfers Speak Out Against City’s Closure of Lester Park Golf Course for 2020 Season

Mayor Emily Larson announced the course will be closed for entire 2020 season

DULUTH, Minn. – Golfers are speaking out against Duluth Mayor Emily Larson’s decision to close Lester Park Golf Course for the entire 2020 season. “We wait sometimes until almost May, early May to start playing and we’re patient. And now we have nothing to look forward to,” said frequent golfer Phil Fitzpatrick. Golfers met outside the Lester Park clubhouse, showing…

Doctors Urge Parents to Keep Up on Kids Vaccinations and Check-Ups During Pandemic

Doctors also add that immunizations are incredibly important from an infant's first shot up through teenager's booster shots.

DULUTH, Minn. – Family care doctors are stressing parents should continue to keep up on their children’s check-up appointments even during COVID-19. One local physician says they want children, especially those two-years-old and younger to keep up on regular visits. All patients are screened before they go into the clinic along with waiting in the car instead of the waiting…

Duluth Superintendent Reacts to Schools Closing for Academic Year

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Public Schools will continue providing meals and childcare to certain families, and distance learning to all students for the rest of the school year. Superintendent Bill Gronseth tells us the district is planning to hold awards nights and graduations this spring despite schools being shut down. “We’re working with our schools and our students and our…

Duluth NAACP Hosts Third Free Mask Giveaway

The Duluth NAACP says they want to give masks to those who are more susceptible to suffering serious health problems from the virus.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Duluth NAACP held its third free mask giveaway, this time in Superior. Community members made and donated nearly 700 masks for distribution. Community Memorial Hospital in Cloquet also donated toothbrushes, bubbles, and coloring books to be given out to kids. The Duluth NAACP says they want to give masks to those who are more susceptible to…

Hospitals To Test Community Members with COVID-19 Symptoms

Minnesota is testing an average of 1,300 people a day for COVID-19 but after Gov. Walz's recent announcement that number is going to rise to 20,000.

DULUTH, Minn. – After Wednesday’s announcement by Governor Tim Walz, local hospitals are now allowed to test anyone with COVID-19 symptoms. Minnesota is testing an average of 1,300 people a day for COVID-19 but after Gov. Walz’s recent announcement that number is going to rise more than ten-fold. Previously, only certain people were allowed to be tested, but now the…

Minnesota Student Will Be Continuing Distance Learning For The Rest Of The Year

It's already been more than a month since Minnesota students were last in school classrooms.

DULUTH, Minn. – All Minnesota k-12 schools are remaining closed for the rest of the academic school year. Governor Tim Walz made the announcement earlier today as a further precaution to flatten the curve of the coronavirus pandemic. It’s already been more than a month since Minnesota students were last in school classrooms. Most academic school years in the state…

Corktown Deli Reopens for To-Go Service

Corktown Deli in Lincoln Park is now also serving as a partial grocery store.

Corktown Deli in Lincoln Park is now also serving as a partial grocery store. It recently reopened for to-go service while also making room for some grocery store shelving in the store, which includes items like baking supplies, beverages, and breakfast items. Owners say they are trying different things and seeing what works. “Overall the support from the community has…

Salvation Army Receives Special Donation.

Coffee isn’t necessarily an essential need. But to some, it’s a special delicacy.

Coffee isn’t necessarily an essential need. But to some, it’s a special delicacy. Scott Nelson owns Dunn Brothers Coffee in Duluth, and he is donating about 100 pounds of freshly roasted coffee beans to the Salvation Army to be handed out and served to those in need. “It’s kind of a win-win where we can keep people employed and people…

VP Mike Pence to Visit Mayo Clinic in Rochester Next Week

ROCHESTER, Minn. (FOX 9) – Vice President Mike Pence will visit Mayo Clinic’s facilities in Rochester next week, marking his second trip to Minnesota in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak. Pence’s trip is scheduled for Tuesday. He’ll tour Mayo Clinic’s research and treatment facilities and talk with workers, according to a White House statement sent Wednesday evening. Pence’s most recent trip…

Duluth City Councilor Barbara Russ Stepping Down

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth City Councilor Barbara Russ announced on Thursday that she is resigning from the Duluth City Council due to health issues. Russ wrote in a statement: “For the past 5 ½ years I have been privileged to serve as an At-Large Duluth City Councilor. During my tenure, I have fought hard to help the homeless and underprivileged…

Walz Orders Minnesota Schools Closed for Rest of School Year, Outlines Next Steps

(Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune via AP, Pool) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz on Thursday ordered Minnesota schools to stay closed through the rest of the academic year amid the COVID-19 crisis. Walz, who is a former teacher, calls it “a heartbreaking decision.” The Democratic governor says he feels sorry for all the students who will miss out on graduations, tournaments,…

LIVE: Gov. Tim Walz Press Conference

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz on Thursday ordered Minnesota schools to stay closed through the rest of the academic year amid the COVID-19 crisis. Walz, who is a former teacher, calls it “a heartbreaking decision.” The Democratic governor says he feels sorry for all the students who will miss out on graduations, tournaments and end of year celebrations. But…

CHUM 16th Annual Rhubarb Festival Canceled

DULUTH, Minn. – CHUM’s 16th Annual Rhubarb Festival has been canceled. CHUM says the decision to cancel the June 27 event is to ensure the safety of volunteers and attendees amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival raises about $60,000-$70,000 for CHUM each year. CHUM says next year’s festival will take place on June 26, 2021. Categories: Minnesota, News, News –…

Minnesota State Fair Will Either Run Full 12 Days or be Canceled Says GM

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. (FOX 9) – The general manager of the Minnesota State Fair says the Great Minnesota Get-Together is still on track to start on Aug. 27, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. In a statement, general manager Jerry Hammer said this year’s State Fair will be all or nothing—alternate fair dates, a change in the duration of the fair or significant reductions…

Latest Minnesota COVID-19 Numbers

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Health reported 21 new deaths on Thursday morning marking the most deaths reported in a single day to date. The department also reported 2,942 confirmed cases throughout the state. Health officials have cautioned that the real number of Minnesotans infected with the coronavirus is likely much higher because most people don’t qualify…

National Bank of Commerce Donates 8,000 N95 Masks to Duluth Hospitals

St. Luke's and Essentia Each Received 4,000 N95 Masks Thanks to National Bank of Commerce

DULUTH, Minn. – With a nationwide shortage of N95 masks, and states told they must find supplies themselves, it’s becoming more difficult by the day to obtain a stockpile for Northland hospitals. On Wednesday, National Bank of Commerce gifted St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth a supply of 4,000 N95 masks for healthcare workers on the front lines to utilize. Another…

Midday Update 4-23-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 23, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 23, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Voyageurs Lutheran Ministry Cancels Northern MN Summer Camps

DULUTH, Minn. – Summer camps have been canceled across Northern Minnesota by Voyageurs Lutheran Ministry. The organization operates Camp Hiawatha in Deer River and Camp Vermilion in Cook. The executive director tells us the camps host up to 1,000 kids and 60 staff members every year. The programs have been canceled for the season to help keep everybody safe during…

Walz Expected to Keep Minnesota Schools Closed

(Scott Takushi/Pioneer Press via AP, Pool) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz is expected to announce that he’s ordering Minnesota schools to stay closed through the rest of the year amid the COVID-19 crisis. The Democratic governor closed public and charter schools just over a month ago and directed them to switch to distance learning, a move that affected nearly…

Zesty Dry Rub Wing Recipe from the Kitchen of Meteorologist William Seay

Meteorologist William Seay Shares His Favorite Dry Rub Chicken Wing Recipe

DULUTH, Minn. – We’re all stuck at home making the most of cooking lunch dinner night after night, and Meteorologist William Seay wants to help spice things up in your kitchen! He shared is mouthwatering dry rub chicken wing recipe in this week’s Cooking Connection. Recipe: 3 lbs whole wings, cut into flats and drummies 1/4 cup olive oil Dry…

26 Million Have Sought US Jobless Aid Since Virus Hit

WASHINGTON (AP) – More than 4.4 million laid-off workers applied for U.S. unemployment benefits last week as job cuts escalated across an economy that remains all but shut down, the government said Thursday. Roughly 26 million people have now filed for jobless aid in the five weeks since the coronavirus outbreak began forcing millions of employers to close their doors. About…

Morning Update 4-23-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 23, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 23, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Nearly 50 Full-Time City of Duluth Employees Laid Off

This latest round of layoffs comes after 45 temporary/seasonal employees were also laid off.

DULUTH, Minn. — The city of Duluth is laying off nearly 50 more employees on top of dozens of temporary and seasonal positions because of a massive projected budget shortfall. A spokesperson for Mayor Emily Larson said Wednesday that 49 full-time employees are affected in this latest round of layoffs. The positions range from housing inspectors within the fire department…

Duluth Pack Gives Back in a Green Way

April 22nd is Earth Day, and today, some businesses are offering promotions to give back in a green way.

DULUTH, Minn. – April 22nd is Earth Day, and today, some businesses are offering promotions to give back in a green way. Duluth Pack in Canal Park, which makes canvas and leather bags and packs, launched its “Buy a Pack, We Give Back” campaign this week. With every customer purchase, a tree will be planted in the local area with…

Pike Lake Elementary School Teachers Create A “We Miss You” Video For Students

"It really does touch them and help them to see our faces, It helps them to see that we really do care."

DULUTH, Minn – Nothing says I miss you like a video filled with heartfelt messages, right? Well, teachers and staff at Pike Lake Elementary did just that to share with their students while being apart during the pandemic. The video is a combination of pictures of the teachers and staff with messages expressing how much they miss their students. The…

Local Cosmetic Store Serves Customers During Pandemic

Mix Cosmetiques in Duluth is a locally-owned makeup shop that sells custom and organic homemade makeup products.

DULUTH, Minn. – Mix Cosmetiques in Duluth is a locally-owned makeup shop that sells custom and organic homemade makeup products. Owner Lanae Rhoads attributes it to peoples’ desire to still look their best, even if it’s just for a Zoom call. She says there has been an increase of 35 to 40 percent in sales. While the business is not…

Ashland Kindergartners Drive-Up to Greet Teachers

Some students brought teachers hand-written letters, stories, and smiles

ASHLAND, Wis. – Kindergartners around the Northland are not in school right now because of the coronavirus shutdown, but that didn’t stop Ashland teachers from celebrating National Kindergarten Day with students and parents driving by Lake Superior Elementary School. A procession of cars was packed with families greeting their favorite kindergarten teachers in-person for the first time in more than…

Minnesota Increases Coronavirus Testing Capacity

ST. PAUL, Minn.– Today was Minnesota’s deadliest day yet from Coronavirus with 19 deaths and 154 new infections. This afternoon Minnesota Governor Tim Walz held a news conference with health experts from around Minnesota with an important update on the next steps the state is taking to try to contain the virus. On the state’s deadliest day from Coronavirus, Governor…

Duluth Offers Emergency Grant Funding To Support Small Businesses During The Pandemic

Each business could receive 10,000 to support operations during the pandemic.

DULUTH, Minn. – Small businesses in Duluth affected by the Coronavirus pandemic have one more day to apply for a special grant program. The Duluth 1200 Fund is handing out thousands of dollars in fast grants to provide immediate financial assistance to businesses being negatively impacted. The goal is to help preserve more than 1,000 jobs in the City of…

UW-Superior “Strongly” Considering Furloughing All Employees

"We are doing everything we can to minimize the impact and hardship on our employees," said Director of Strategic Communicatons Jordan Milan.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Superior is one of many higher education institutions suffering from the impacts of Covid-19. Due to substantial revenue loss, the university is “strongly” considering furloughing all faculty and staff beginning in July. University administration is looking into a phased approach to this furlough proposal. If it goes into effect for the institution, furloughs would…