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Minnesota Power updates Hydroelectric system at Island Lake Dam

The construction crew consists of divers working underwater

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Power is currently undergoing a unique construction project on the Island Lake Reservoir. Crews are working  to replace several gates under one of its hydroelectric dams. It’s a two-year project aimed at modernizing the more than 100-year-old hydroelectric system. “It’s a once in 100 year project,” hydro operations manager Chris Rousseau said. “It’s not often that…

Northforce hosts Mentor Connection

The event connects college students with local business leaders

DULUTH, Minn. – Business leaders in the Northland met with college students from the area to mentor them in their potential career field. The Mentor Connection event happened at The Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth. Fifty–five students from UMD and St. Scholastica met with local business leaders and discuss ways to pursue their careers in the Northland. Northforce, an organization…

Forum Held on Enbridge Line 3 in Grand Rapids

Enbridge Faces Criticism from Multiple Sides

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn.-Many people came out today to sound off on the Enbridge Line 3 replacement project. Today’s meeting in Grand Rapids was one of many public meetings that have been held throughout the state on the project. Recently the state’s Commerce Department came out against the project saying it’s not needed and won’t benefit Minnesota. Enbridge has argued that…

First Frost Blankets Local Golf Courses

Greens at Enger Park Golf Course Turned White Tuesday Morning, Prompting Workers to Think Winter Preparation

DULUTH, Minn. – Greens around the Northland turned white Tuesday morning as much of the Northland experienced a first frost. Staff with Duluth Golf tell FOX 21, fall is one of the busiest times to get out and enjoy a tee time. By the end of October, General Manager Mike Bender says the course superintendent will be shutting down nine…

Synthetic Drug Overdoses on Rise

No Known Way to Reverse Synthetic Marijuana Overdose

MINNEAPOLIS-Minnesota health officials say there’s been a spike in the number of overdoses from synthetic marijuana in Minneapolis. The Star Tribune reports that last week alone Minneapolis hospitals handled at least 60 cases related to the synthetic drug, which causes hallucinations and violent behavior in some users and leaves others comatose. Officials say none of the cases has been fatal….

County Board Approves New Liquor Sales Hours for One Day

Liquor Law Changing Temporarily Due to Early Vikings Game

DULUTH, Minn.-The St. Louis County Board temporarily changed the hours when liquor can be sold in the county on Oct. 29. Liquor sales will be allowed to begin at 8 a.m. that day, rather than the usual 10 a.m. The reason being is the Vikings play at 8:30 a.m. that Sunday because they are going to be in England against…

Police Looking for Robbery Suspect Who Used Hatchet

If You See Him, Call 911

BIWABIK, Minn.-The St. Louis County Sherrif’s Office is looking for 32-year-old man who robbed the Lakeland Store in Biwabik Township last night, using a hatchet. Anthony Theodore Wagoner, of Crookston, has been identified as the suspect. He should be considered armed and dangerous. Police warn not to approach him. He came into the store at about 7:30 p.m. wearing a…

Lane Closure on I-35 Near Scanlon

Highway 45 Bridge Struck Monday Causes Lane Closure

DULUTH, Minn.-An emergency lane closure has occurred on Interstate 35 northbound over Highway 45 in Scanlon. The bridge over Highway 45 was struck Monday evening and crews are their assessing the damage. It’s not known how long the lane will be closed. Motorists are advised to use caution in that area. Categories: News, News – Latest News Tags: DULUTH NEWS

Duluth Council Approves Fire Department Overtime, Salt Purchase

Both Resolutions Passed by City Council Last Night

DULUTH, Minn.-$375,000 was approved by the Duluth City Council last night, to fund extra overtime needs for the fire department. By a 6-2 vote, councilors approved the ordinance. Fire department officials said it was needed because many of their employees were gone for a variety of reasons including military leave, and lack of staffing due to injuries. Originally, the fire…

Masquerade Ball Supports Harbor House Crisis Shelters

Saturday: Angels and Demons Masquerade Ball

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…

Local Preservation Corps Works Life Back into Historic Log Church

Northland Uncovered: Sts. Mary and Joseph Church

SAWYER, Minn. – A church in Sawyer on the Minnesota Registry of Historic Places has been under construction for about a year as a preservation corps puts life into the structure. Northern Bedrock Historic Preservation Corps members are working to restore the Saints Mary and Joseph Church which was built in 1884. The goal was to provide a place of…

Body Found in Storm Sewer on Lakewalk Identified

Authorities Confirm the Body is that of 50-Year-Old William Robert Saker, Missing Since March 13, 2017

DULUTH, Minn. – The Midwest Medical Examiners Office has identified the body found in the storm sewer on Duluth’s Lakewalk on September 28, 2017. The body was that of 50-year-old William Robert Saker. Saker was reported missing to the Duluth Police Department on March 13, 2017. Authorities say Saker needed prescribed medications. Authorities are still waiting on toxicology reports to determine…

Superior Police Respond to Body Camera Bill

Debate Over Privacy or Public Transperancy Heats Up

As body cameras worn by police officers become very common in Wisconsin, there are some disagreements over who exactly should be able to view the footage captured on them. A state assembly committee met last week about a bill that would make it possible to keep much of police video private. The bill has support from police officers across Wisconsin,…

Knowing Your Neighbors: Vikre Distillery

DULUTH, Minn. — Crafting spirits starts with water. According to Vikre Distillery co-founder Joel Vikre, distilled liquors are “800% water.” And at Vikre, it starts with the pure fresh water of Lake Superior. “The lake is such a defining feature of life here,” says Emily Vikre, Joel’s wife and the other co-founder of their eponymous business.  “Everything is kind of…

Duluth Gets “A Taste of India”

It Was the First Cultural Night in Zeitgeist Arts' "Spirit of Duluth" Program

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluthians had the chance to stop at the Zeitgeist Arts Building Monday and get a taste of India. It was the first cultural night in Zeitgeist’s “Spirit of Duluth” program. The program showcases lesser-known cultures in the city. On Monday, guests enjoyed a three course Indian meal and watched an Indian movie to learn more about that…

“Entrepreneurs on Tap” Held in Superior

Program Helps Business Owners and Inventors Market their Products

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Inventors and business owners came together at Vintage Italian Pizza on Monday night. The “Entrepreneurs on Tap” program helps Superior inventors and patent holders learn how to market their inventions. Monday, two staff members from UW-Stout talked to the entrepreneurs about product innovation. “Whether they’re running a retail or a service business in the city or the…

Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrated in the Northland

Superior Recognizes Holiday for the First Time

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The second Monday of October has traditionally been called Columbus Day. It’s been a federal holiday in the United States since 1837. But in recent years, more and more cities and states have also celebrated Indigenous Peoples Day. Indigenous Peoples Day celebrates the history and culture of Native Americans. Superior’s new mayor, Jim Paine, said he feels…

Get Downtown Week Begins Today

Buy One, Get One Offers Going on Throughout Week

DULUTH, Minn.-Get Downtown Week began in Duluth today. Numerous stores and restaurants will be offering buy one, get one free deals through Saturday. Event organizers say it’s a great way to remind Northlanders all the downtown area has to offer. “There are quite a few things down here,” said Darlene Marshall, of the Greater Downtown Council. “Flowers, symphony tickets, and…

Fire Prevention Safety Week Begins

Fire Department Leaders Say to Practice Fire Drills at Home Twice a Year

SUPERIOR, Wis.-Throughout the country this week, fire safety will be on the minds of many. That’s because it’s Fire Prevention Safety Week. Local experts we spoke to today said this year’s theme is “Every Second Counts, Plan Two Ways Out.” They advise families to practice fire drills twice a year. The Superior Fire Department says this seems like simple advice,…

Duluth Fire Department Needs $375,000 to Pay for Overtime

Cost Increase Linked to Injuries and Military Leave

DULUTH, Minn.-Tonight, the Duluth City Council will be looking at an amendment that would lead to the fire department getting an additional $375,000 to help pay for an increase in overtime. According to the amendment, the fire department has been affected by a variety of factors including staff shortages caused by injuries and military leave. Firefighters who also use the…

Aldi Grocery Store to Open in Duluth Thursday

Golden Ticket Giveaway to be Held at 8:25 a.m. Thursday

DULUTH, Minn.-ALDI grocery store will open Thursday in Duluth near the Miller Hill Mall. The store, located at 1724 Mall Drive, will be the second in the Northland. The other is located on Tower Avenue in Superior. “We’re thrilled to join the Duluth community and offer customers the benefits of the ALDI shopping experience,” said said Matt Lilla, Faribault division vice…

Former Two Harbors Resident Running for Nolan’s Seat

Candidate had Been Working for FBI

DULUTH, Minn.-A 33-year-old Two Harbors native has announced she is seeking the DFL endorsement for Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District. Leah Phifer, who lives in Isanti, will be seeking out Rep. Rick Nolan’s seat. She had previously worked for the FBI in the national security sector. This past summer, she went on a district-wide listening tour of the community, traveling nearly…

Republicans Running for Minnesota Governor Support Voter ID

Idea Already Rejected in 2012 Statewide Vote

ST. PAUL, Minn.-Four Republicans running for governor in Minnesota all support requiring voters to show identification at the polls, despite the idea being rejected during a 2012 statewide vote. The candidates are Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson, former Republican Party chair Keith Downey, state Rep. Matt Dean and state Sen. Dave Osmek. Minnesota Public Radio reports the candidates say the…

Healthy Options are Celebrated in Minnesota for National School Lunch Week

DULUTH, Minn. – This week schools across the country are celebrating National School Lunch Week. This is all with a goal of educating students and encouraging them to eat healthy foods. Northland schools offer farm-to-school initiatives, customizable meals, and innovative ways to help kids make healthy choices. The Minnesota School Nutrition Association (MSNA), founded in 1956 as a state–wide association…

Minnesota Officials Begin Mille Lacs Walleye Assessment

There Have Been Tighter Walleye Restrictions on Lake Over Last Few Years

ONAMIA, Minn.-The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is netting fish on a big central Minnesota lake as part of the agency’s annual fall assessment. Minnesota Public Radio reports the department’s work is under intense scrutiny because of tighter walleye regulations on Mille Lacs Lake in the last few years. The survey’s data will determine the harvest limits for next year…

Local Businesses Offer Specials for “Get Downtown Week”

Coffee Conversation: Get Downtown Week

DULUTH, Minn. – Local business owners are hoping patrons shop local this week for Get Downtown Week in Duluth. It’s a week developed to highlight the shops in Duluth’s downtown waterfront area. The participating stores will be featuring specials and Buy One Get One deals. More than 30 businesses are taking part in the bi-annual event. Get Downtown Week specials…

Fire Damages 42nd Avenue West Home

Owner of Home Taken to Hospital

DULUTH, Minn.-Fire blazed through a house at 820 N. 42nd Ave. W. at 7 p.m. last night. The owner of the home has been transferred to a local hospital for evaluation – she has non-life threatening injuries. Her pets were not injured in the incident. Initial damages are at $50,000. The Duluth Fire Marshall’s office is still investigating the cause….

Iron Range STEM Showcase

6th Graders Had Their Minds Working With All The Cool Stuff Around Them

DULUTH, Minn- 2,000 Northland sixth graders put on their thinking caps Friday, packing the Hibbing Memorial Building for the Iron Range STEM showcase. “It’s really cool. It’s like a once in a life time thing,” said Christian Sterzinger, 6th Grader at Lincoln Elementary. STEM, an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math continues to impact today’s classroom curriculum. “Having hands…

1 Arrested After Cars, Biwabik Post Office Damaged

BIWABIK, Minn. – The Gilbert Police Department has arrested a 21-year-old man after the Biwabik Post Office and vehicles in the neighborhood were damaged. As for the post office, police say several interior mailboxes were damaged. Officers determined mail was even stolen out of those mail boxes, according to the press release. Damage is estimated to add up to several…

German Wirehaired Pointers Compete in Solon Springs

National Specialty Show and Field Events Being Held This Week

SOLON SPRINGS, Wis. – Seventy-five dogs and their owners are in Solon Springs this week for the National German Wirehaired Pointer Show and Field Events. The national specialty show has brought hundreds of dog owners from across the country to Solon Springs to show off what their dogs can do. “I love their temperament, their personalities, their go lucky attitudes…

Haunted Shack to Open on Friday

Attraction Is Preparing for Its 24th Season

DULUTH, Minn. – The Haunted Shack is preparing for their twenty-fourth season scaring the Northland. Guests take a wagon ride through a haunted campground and then walk through the Haunted Shack itself. Seventy to one hundred actors scare everyone that comes through, providing a night of entertainment for the whole family. “Coming through the haunted shack, coming to any type…

Dryer Fire Prevention Tips

Oct. 8-14 is National Fire Prevention Week

National Fire Prevention Week runs from October 8-14, and Dryer Vent Wizard of Minnesota is giving some tips to prevent dryer fires this season. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 92 percent of appliance fires occur in dryers. Why? Dryers contain three essential elements for a fire: ignition source, the heating element within; oxygen, continuous airflow as the machine…

Moving Truck Too Tall For Duluth Bridge

Truck Becomes Wedged Underneath Low Bridge In Duluth

DULUTH, Minn- Saturday around 11:46 a.m., Duluth Police responded to 32nd Ave E above London Rd. in reference to a vehicle that struck a railroad bridge. The Penske rental truck, which was 13 ft. 1 inch at its high point, was wedged under the bridge, which was marked as 10 ft 9 inches in height allowance, The driver of the…

Oktoberfest Celebrated in Fitger’s Courtyard

The Boat Club Restaurant Put on Their First Ever German Fall Festival

DULUTH, Minn. – Fall is here and to celebrate this time of year, the Boat Club Restaurant in Duluth held their first ever Oktoberfest celebration. Oktoberfest is a traditional German folk festival held annually in Bavaria. That’s a long way from Duluth, but the Fitger’s courtyard felt a lot like Germany today at the Boat Club’s own Oktoberfest celebration. “There…

Time to Prepare Plants for Next Spring

Team at Engwall's in Hermantown Gives Tips on Plant Upkeep

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Hard frost is expected in the Northland within the next couple weeks so, for many gardeners, the time is now to start preparing their plants for next year. The team at Engwall Florist and Gifts in Hermantown say it’s critically important to get lawns and gardens ready for next spring. They recommend watering and trimming lawns before…

Birds Migrating over Hawk Ridge

Observatory Staff Counts and Band Birds to Monitor Population

DULUTH, Minn. – Birds are migrating to their winter homes, so now is the time for many Northlanders to watch them fly by. Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth is a great place to see birds flying overhead. Classes for kids and adults are offered there that teach all about our friends in the skies. The Hawk Ridge staff count,…

Apple Lovers Flock to Erickson Orchards and Country Store

Bayfield Apple Festival will Run Friday, Saturday and Sunday October 6 - 8

BAYFIELD, Wisc. – This weekend thousands are making their way to Bayfield, Wisconsin, as the community will once again host their 56th Annual Apple Festival. The Bayfield Chamber of Commerce predicts nearly 60,000 visitors to make their way through the town during the three day festival. With all the hustle and bustle comes excitement from the Erickson family. Erickson Orchards…

Super One and Second Harvest Team Up for Milk Drive

DULUTH, Minn.-Shoppers at area Super One stores can help kids, families, and seniors in need, to get milk into their fridges at home. Super One has partnered with Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank for this milk drive; it’s part of a nationwide effort called the Great American Milk Drive. Shoppers can purchase vouchers at the register at Super One…

Lake Superior Research Institute Celebrates 50 Years

Breakfast to be Held Tomorrow for Event

SUPERIOR, Wis.-Keeping our waters clean has always been a goal of the Lake Superior Research Institute. Today, all that hard work was celebrated at a conference that looked back on what they’ve done in the past 50 years. The goal of the program is to do a variety of types of work on our waters including investigating environmental issues related…

Democratic Governor Race Heats Up

Candidate Forum Held in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.-The governor’s race is heating up in Minnesota and today all the democratic candidates for the post made a stop in Duluth. A forum was held for all the candidates during AFSCME’s Minnesota Council 5 annual convention at the DECC. It’s not clear which candidate is the frontrunner so far, but today’s event could have a large impact on…

Hecker Still in Prison

Hecker's Attorney Misspoke When She Said Hecker Had Been Released From the Federal Prison

MINNEAPOLIS-Former Minnesota auto dealer Denny Hecker remains in federal prison and is not in a halfway house as his attorney reported earlier this week. The federal Bureau of Prisons says Hecker’s attorney misspoke when she said Hecker had been released from the federal prison in Illinois and sent to a halfway house in Minneapolis. Hecker’s former bankruptcy attorney Barbara May…

35-Year Sentence for Killer in Fond du Lac Case

Murder Occured Dec. 23 on Reservation

CARLTON, Minn.-A 34-year-old man was sentenced today for killing another man Dec. 23 on the Fond du Lac Reservation. Wayne Bosto was sentenced to 35 1/2 years in prison for shooting and killing 36-year-old John Korby. In July, Bosto plead guilty to second-degree murder for his role in the crime. He had also been facing a charge of being a…

Craft Sale Benefits Local Food Shelves

Saturday: Annual HCE Craft Sale

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.,…