News – Latest News

Midday Update 4-16-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 16, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 16, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Ashland County Man Dies in Fatal Crash

TOWNSHIP OF SANBORN, Wis. – A 21-year-old male from Ashland County died Wednesday night when the car he was driving crashed in the woods. Authorities say the accident happened on Birch Hill Road in the Township of Sanborn around 7:00 p.m. Officers, Bad River First Responders, and Ashland Ambulance responded to the scene where the male was found deceased. The…

Minnesota Latest COVID-19 Numbers

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Health released updated COVID-19 numbers Thursday morning reporting 1,912 confirmed cases in the state. That is 103 new cases of COVID-19 since yesterday. Minnesota is also reporting 94 total deaths in the state due to new coronavirus. To date, 1,020 in the state no longer require isolation. The MDH website reports that…

Spice Up Your At-Home Cooking With This Jalapeño Green Sauce Recipe

Meteorologist William Seay Shares His Favorite Jalapeño Green Sauce Recipe

DULUTH, Minn. – We’re all stuck at home making the most of cooking dinner night after night, and Meteorologist William Seay wants to help spice things up in your kitchen! He shared his favorite Jalapeño green sauce recipe in this week’s Cooking Connection. The sauce could be used on tacos, nachos, or simply for dipping chips. Recipe: 1 lb. jalapeños…

Evers Tells Trump Wisconsin Faces $2 Billion in Losses

(Steve Apps/Wisconsin State Journal via AP, File) MADISON, WI (AP) — Wisconsin faces $2 billion in revenue losses due to skyrocketing unemployment and other hits to the economy caused by the coronavirus, Gov. Tony Evers told President Donald Trump in a letter sent this week along with the governors of Michigan and Pennsylvania. Evers and the governors from Michigan and…

Morning Update 4-16-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 16, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 16, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Sutherland CBD, Dr. Juice Offer Hand Sanitizer, Donate Hundreds to First Responders

The pair are are selling bottles at cost for $3, all sales going back into production.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Sutherland CBD and Dr. Juice USA, both on Tower Avenue, are now offering handmade hand sanitizer. And hundreds of bottles of their product are going to first responders in need. “In these difficult times everybody’s got to do their part to stop the spread of this thing, to stay safe,” said Jacob Tout, CEO of Dr. Juice USA….

Northland Summer Camps Prepare for Uncertain Season

Camp Amnicon and Camp Nebagamon discuss planning for summer camps during pandemic

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Wis. – Going to camp is a summer tradition for many families but, with so much uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, nobody knows if kids will have the chance to attend Northland camps this year. “What we provide is the opportunity to get outdoors and to learn in the outdoors and we really feel that families, kids are going to…

Home Health Care Industry Impacted by Coronavirus

In particular, it looks like it has slowed down the home health care industry.

DULUTH, Minn. – The coronavirus has impacted businesses throughout the Northland. Touching Hearts at Home located is an in-home services and transportation provider. The company hasn’t laid off any of its employees. Owners say it’s important to keep home healthcare services available. “I would say a big part of it is an isolation factor that sometimes the only person they…

ACLU-MN sues to release Moose Lake inmates due to COVID-19

MOOSE LAKE, Minn. (AP) – The American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota is suing to release inmates endangered by COVID-19 at Moose Lake prison in northern Minnesota. The organization filed a petition Wednesday against the state Department of Corrections. According to a DOC database, 12 inmates in Moose Lake are confirmed positive for the coronavirus and another 31 inmates are…

Over 33 Thousand Minnesota Small Businesses Approved for Forgivable Loans

Sen. Tina Smith says more work has to be done to address the funding shortage for loans.

MINNESOTA, As stimulus checks begin rolling out, additional help through forgivable loans have been awarded to over 33,819 Minnesota small businesses as of Monday. The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) grants loans to small businesses as part of the Stimulus Package. The loans are forgivable to businesses who retain or rehire their workers. Senator Tina Smith (D), who helped pass the…

MnDot Prepares for 2020 Road Construction Projects

DULUTH, Minn.– As the summer months get closer, it’s time to start getting ready for road construction season. Crews will soon be working on the roads to improve infrastructure around the Northland. The Minnesota Department of Transportation is getting ready to hit the pavement as construction season gets underway. “We’re improving our infrastructure and providing construction jobs,” said Margie Nelson,…

Ruth House Gives Out Free Meals

SUPERIOR, Wis.– In Superior, one church has been working to help those who might be food insecure right now. Ruth House in Superior has been giving out free meals for the last couple of months. Food is donated by members of the community and served daily from 5:00 p.m.-5:45 p.m. They give out around 40 to 60 meals every night….

Duplex Catches Fire in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis.– The Superior Fire Department is investigating a duplex fire in the northern part of the city. It happened around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday on the 700 block of Weeks Avenue. Officials say the fire started in the rear wall and extended to the attic. Firefighters had to cut through the roof to put out the flames. Nobody was injured….

Gov. Walz Signs Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act into Law

In 2017, 26-year-old Alec Smith died of diabetic complications because he was rationing his insulin which he could not afford to be uninsured. Legislators hope this law hopes will stop this from ever happening again.

ST. PAUL. – The Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act was signed into law on Wednesday by Governor Tim Walz. In 2017, 26-year-old Alec Smith died of diabetic complications because he was rationing his insulin which he could not afford to be uninsured. Lawmakers and advocates took up this issue in Alec’s memory to stop this from happening again. The program…

Duluth International Is Receiving More Than $5 Million In Relief Funding

Typically the airport runs up to 12 daily flights, but that has since dropped to five flights per day.

DULUTH, Minn- The Duluth International Airport is receiving more than $5 million in relief funding to support operations during the pandemic. This comes after Congressman Pete Stauber recently announced nearly $30 million in funding to assist more than 25 airports in Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District. Those funds were made available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. Duluth…

Goodwill Industries Of Duluth Lays Off Nearly 300 Employees

Most of the layoffs are impacting retail and donation processing workers.

DULUTH, Minn – More layoffs are spreading throughout the northland. Nearly 300 employees from Goodwill Industries locations around the area are out of work as a direct result of Covid-19. Goodwill’s core mission is to help people dealing with social and economic barriers, gain viable employment. With operations in the northland being closed for nearly a month, due to Covid…

Virtual Baby Showers: How the Coronavirus Impacts Gatherings

“It's probably the best thing that we can do right now and it's something that I can still look forward to," said Lynsey Haala.

DULUTH, Minn. – A lot of gatherings are being canceled these days because of the coronavirus, but people are still figuring out alternative ways to do things like baby showers. Lynsey Haala and her husband Chad are expecting a new baby in June. When they had to cancel their planned baby shower, they knew they needed to get creative. Then…

Lake Superior Zoo Accepting Donations While Closed

While you can't come visit the Lake Superior Zoo, you can still help out.

DULUTH, Minn. – The zoo is asking for monetary donations as well as selling membership extension and advanced tickets. Because the zoo is a nonprofit, it relies on revenue to keep animals fed. “It’s pretty much business as usual for them,” said Emily Perala, Lead Zookeeper. “Some of them seem to really miss having a lot of the folks come…

ACLU Sues to Release Moose Lake Inmates Due to COVID-19 Concerns

MOOSE LAKE, Minn. – According to a recent press release, the American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota filed a petition on Wednesday against the state Department of Corrections asking for the immediate release of Moose Lake inmates. The ACLU-MN says that the state DOC is not keeping prisoners and staff safe from the rapid spread of COVID-19. “The ACLU of…

Layoffs Expected at Keetac Mine Later This Week

KEEWATIN, Minn. – Layoffs are expected this Sunday, April 19 at the US Steel owned Keetac Mine. According to a letter from the Steelworkers Union, the layoffs will affect employees who have been at the mine for three years or less. Maintenance staff who have been with the company for three years or less will continue to work until the…

FDA Approves Low-Cost Ventilator Developed by U of Minnesota

(Breanna Retherford/University of Minnesota via AP)   MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday approved a low-cost ventilator developed by the University of Minnesota and aimed at helping COVID-19 patients breathe. The FDA authorized use of the compact device, known as the Coventor, that was quickly developed and designed by a team of university researchers, a…

BWCA To Close for Day and Overnight Use Through May 4

DULUTH, Minn. – Officials with the Superior National Forest announced on Wednesday that the Boundary Water Canoe Area Wilderness will be closed for day and overnight use starting tomorrow. The closure will go through May 4 to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Officials say any reservations made through May 4 will receive a full refund including reservation fees. “In…

Local Leaders Ask for Rent, Mortgage Suspension

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Nearly two dozen local elected officials are calling on Gov. Tim Walz to suspend rent and mortgage payments and stop commercial property evictions during the coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to Walz, the officials say “mass displacement, home foreclosures, and the shuttering of businesses are imminent unless aggressive measures are taken immediately.” The officials include a…

Midday Update 4-15-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, April 15, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Goodwill of Duluth Announces Layoffs Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – Effective Tuesday Goodwill Industries Vocational Enterprises of Duluth announced they will be laying off roughly 293 of its 312 workers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Goodwill says the majority of these layoffs will be from their retail and donation processing enterprise. “Goodwill Industries has been forced to continue the closure of all retail stores and all operations…

Best Buy to Furlough 51,000 Store Employees Nationwide

RICHFIELD, Minn. (FOX 9) – Best Buy announced Wednesday it will furlough approximately 51,000 employees in the U.S. as its stores remain closed nationwide aside from curbside pickup during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Richfield, Minnesota-based retailer said some corporate employees are also participating in voluntary reduced work weeks and resulting pay as well as voluntary furloughs. Best Buy CEO Corie Barry will forego…

Business Clamor for Exemptions to Reopen Amid COVID-19

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Nonessential business have inundated Gov. Tim Walz’s administration with requests to open their doors again as a stay-at-home order continues because of the coronavirus pandemic. Walz recently extended that order until at least May 4 but said he and his administration would look at exemptions for more businesses over the coming weeks. State officials would…

Morning Update 4-15-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, April 15, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Northland Bikers Get Ready to Ride

DULUTH, Minn.– Duluth’s Lakewalk has been a busy place lately with more and more bikers showing up to ride. As the weather warms up, a lot of people in the Northland are anxious to get out and ride their bikes. Biking can be a great way for people to get around, lower stress, and get some exercise. The Lakewalk has…

Making the Neighborhood Safer

The Duluth Police Department was recently awarded a big grant to help keep the community safe.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department was recently awarded a big grant to help keep the community safe. The department awarded over $33,000 from the state for the safe neighborhood program. The funding will be used to organize a group to address repeat offenders, specifically with drug and violent crimes, and promote reentry for those criminals. The planning process…

A Local Junk Hauling Company Gives Back To Community

Over the next two weeks, Twin Ports Trailer Trash will be also collecting donations for CASDA and RAD.

Twin Ports Trailer Trash is known for doing exactly what its name implies, hauling away junk and trash. But like other small businesses in the area, the junk hauling company is being impacted by Covid-19. Spring is typically a busy time for Twin Ports Trailer Trash, but the pandemic has caused a change of pace. The company is now using…

$15,000 in Meat, Liquor Stolen From Black Water Lounge on Easter Sunday

DULUTH, Minn. – More than $15,000 worth of inventory was stolen from the Black Water Lounge in downtown Duluth on Easter Sunday. This comes at a time when restaurant owners are trying to survive with only curbside and pick-up orders during the pandemic. The suspect is seen on surveillance video taking salmon, beef and liquor from the back storage area…

Senior Linkage Line: Here to Help

The Senior Linkage Line is helping older adults and caregivers with resources in their communities.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Senior Linkage Line is helping older adults and caregivers with resources in their communities. Services include helping with personal care or help around the house, chore homemaker services, roundabout rides to the doctor, rides to other locations and help with Medicare. Officials say it’s a one-stop shop for those who are growing older and how they…

Veterans Can Get Financial Support During Pandemic

Veterans can receive $1,000 each in financial relief.

DULUTH, Minn- Minnesota veterans are getting financial relief to help them recover from the impacts of Covid-19. In March, the Minnesota Legislature and Governor Tim Walz approved a one-time relief grant worth more than $6 million to be awarded to veterans. On a first come first served basis veterans in need of the support can receive $1,000 each to counter…

Duluth Police, Fire Departments Join Birthday Parade for Local Four-Year Old

The Duluth Police and Fire Departments, along with family and friends, joined a parade to celebrate a local four-year old's birthday.

DULUTH, Minn. – Birthday parties are looking a lot different due to the coronavirus, but in some ways, they’re getting more creative. On Monday, one local family held a special parade for their son. The Duluth Police and Fire departments joined the celebration for Emerson, who turned four on Monday. The coronavirus canceled the original party plan, but the parade…

Wisconsin Campgrounds Face Uncertainty During Pandemic

Campgrounds in rural areas can be packed with people from cities trying to social distance

WASCOTT, Wis. – People are trying to get out of cities as much as possible during the pandemic. That means campgrounds in rural areas can be packed. While the owners appreciate the business, they tell us it’s up to campers to act responsibly and maintain social distance. Rick Maas, owner of Up North Resort in Wascott, tells us there are…

Free Masks Bring Long Line to Vikre Distillery

Lake Superior Medical Equipment and Duluth Screen Printing team up to make 175 masks to distribute at Vikre.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Center for Disease Control has updated its recommendations, advising people to wear masks while out in public. Now Vikre Distillery is partnering with local businesses to distribute free cloth masks to Northlanders, along with hand sanitizer. “Keeps us busy while we’re closed, and feels really nice to be able to help the community that way,” said Doug…

Hannah Johnson Fabrics Giving Out Masks to Those in Need

The local fabric store is selling mask making kits, while also giving out free masks to people who still need one.

DULUTH, Minn. – Hannah Johnson Fabrics in Duluth has a few options for people who still need masks. People can purchase mask making kits, which includes the supplies for three masks, for six dollars. They also have people making and donating masks, that they’re giving out to places like hospitals or nursing homes. Hannah Johnson Fabrics also said they’re giving…

DRCC Takes Precautions To Prevent The Spread Of Covid-19

Organization is in need of more personal protective equipment.

The Duluth Regional Care Center, which is an organization that offers housing and community support for people with developmental disabilities is taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of those they serve as the coronavirus pandemic continues. DRCC runs 50 group homes in the Arrowhead Region and also offers in-home services, which have already been scaled back. As a…

All-Star Reading Program Continues

As students continue to do their school work from home, local leaders are stepping in offering up a unique event.

DULUTH, Minn. – As students continue to do their school work from home, local leaders are stepping in offering up a unique event. Recently the Duluth Public Library started it’s All-Star Storytime where leaders like Duluth Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj read a book to a public Facebook group. The fire chief told us it’s a good way to distract young…

Superior’s Restaurant Week is Still On

Restaurants are only doing delivery and carry out these days but that isn't stopping this year's event from happening.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Superior’s restaurant week is still on. 23 restaurants are offering special dining deals all the way through Sunday. The goal is to raise awareness about the unique variety of tastes offered by Superior restaurants. “I think this is an industry that needs it and I think that this is an…

Relief Funds Set Up For 3 Grand Marais Businesses Destroyed By Fire

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – Relief funds have been set up to support three downtown Grand Marais businesses destroyed by fire Monday. One account is set up at Grand Marais State Bank, PO Box 100, 55604.  Any contributions sent to “Fire Relief Fund” will be evenly distributed to the three businesses – Crooked Spoon Café, White Pine North and Picnic &…