Author: Emily Halling

Large group of community members attend ICE out of Duluth Sit-in at City Hall

DULUTH, Minn.–Bright and early on a freezing Friday morning, a large group of community members, gathered in solidarity to protest against ICE escalations. “I was very impressed with the turnout. Our car didn’t start, so I didn’t know if it was going to be a little bit lower of a turnout, but everyone did definitely turn out,” said Kaylee Spencer,…

Duluth businesses embrace the deep freeze with fun opportunities

DULUTH, Minn.– When it comes to experiencing the arctic-like air, many businesses decide to close their doors. However, a few of them around town see it as an opportunity. “Our hot shop comes in at a nice hot 2100 degrees,” said Katie Timmerman, Director of Operations at Lake Superior Art Glass. “Even though the ovens are hot, it’s colder than…

Minnesota Twins players meet with fans in Duluth during Winter Caravan tour

DULUTH, Minn.– Duluth welcomed in some extra special visitors today as part of their Winter Caravan Tour throughout the state. Wednesday morning, Minnesota Twins players Justin Topa and Mick Abel, stopped by the Elite Sports Complex in West Duluth. The turf was filled with excited community members, ready to get their winter baseball fix. Fans got to check out a…

45th annual Arrowhead EMS Association draws in around 700 attendees

DULUTH, Minn.– For 45 years, first responders, medical professionals, and EMS from all over the region have met to collaborate and learn from one another. This year, the DECC is expecting to welcome in nearly 700 first responders. Each attendee will participate in a series of classes, keynote speakers, as well as the national expo. Getting familiar with one another…

Free Wisconsin nonprofit’s reentry housing plan meets resistance

ASHLAND, Wis.– In Ashland, one resident has been making a difference in his community by giving back to released incarcerated individuals through his nonprofit. And now, he’s looking to expand his services. “We’re a newer nonprofit that actually works with criminal justice impacted people. We try and support them and meet them where they’re at. So, we focus on a…

Brimson Strong nonprofit featured in Castle Danger Brewing’s Pints for a Cause

TWO HARBORS, Minn.– After the massive Brimson Complex fire took out a large portion of northern St Louis County, efforts are still strong to help towns such as Brimson rebuild. Since then, a nonprofit called “Brimson Strong” lead by founder Mikala Schliep has dedicated time and effort to help her community. The fire also affected Schliep, as it took the…

‘Sprint Medic Pilot Program’ set to hit the road in northern St Louis County

VIRGINIA, Minn.– The Sprint Medic Pilot program is hitting the road, in northern St Louis County, its main goal is to improve medical response times in rural areas. The Minnesota Legislature funded the Sprint Medic Pilot Program back in 2024, aiming to provide life-saving emergency care across northern St. Louis County. But now, starting Monday, the program will have an…

Wildwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation brings awareness to wildlife lead poisoning

DULUTH, Minn.– The Executive Director at Wildwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation, is urging hunters and fishers beware of lead, after dealing with a pattern of poisoned animals, at their doorstep. The Executive Director said this problem has been ongoing for years. Last year, out of 33 eagles rescued, only ten of them were treatable. We’re told lead poisoning affects gastrointestinal system, muscle…

Submissions open to name soon-to-be Duluth Public Schools education center

DULUTH, Minn.–A new development in downtown Duluth is currently in the works, and it is looking to breathe new life into the Duluth Public School system. The soon-to-be education building, located at 424 west 1st street, is expected to open in fall of 2026. It will house education programs such as an enrollment center, an area learning center, community education,…

Hemp business owner sheds light on proposed bills in response to potential Wisconsin hemp ban

SUPERIOR, Wis.– With a federal ban on hemp-derived products taking effect in November across the country, a CBD and hemp business owner in Superior is feeling some sense of relief with new legislation in the works from Wisconsin lawmakers. Craig Sutherland with “Sutherland CBD” said, there are two competing republican-led bills that determines the future of hemp, including products such…

Memorial Blood Centers issues ‘blood emergency’

DULUTH, Minn.– Memorial Blood Centers has issued a “blood emergency” because their network of donation sites only has a two-day supply, compared to the usual seven-day supply. Kathyrn Hamm, with Memorial Blood Centers in Duluth, said the recent holidays and busy flu season have contributed to the lack of donations. “So, the seven days on the shelf, that reserve is…

U.S. Coast Guard SPAR reaches tail end of ice breaking season

DULUTH, Minn.– With Minnesota experiencing a seemingly normal winter season this year, it’s been a busy stretch of time for the members aboard the SPAR. “We started to hear what how much trouble boats were having coming in and out of Duluth and the Great Lakes district, our Coast Guard headquarters had us turn around and get right back up…

Denfeld High School students peacefully protest against ICE escalations

  DULUTH, Minn.– Earlier this morning at Denfeld High School, a large crowd of students gathered to make their voices heard as they peacefully protested against ICE. The walk out gathering was filled with chants, and signs to express their feelings surrounding ice escalations in the state. Duluth Public School officials told FOX 21, the kids were practicing their first…

22nd annual Ice Climbing Festival attracts hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts

SANDSTONE, Minn.– When choosing to take on winter sports, many people tend to choose skiing and snowboarding. But the Ice Climbing Festival in Sandstone, takes things to the extreme. For over two decades, Sandstone has held the not so hidden gem in the Robinson Quarry Park. Brave adventurers from both near and far gather here for this bone chilling experience….

“The Iron Exchange at 400” Hibbing housing development officially underway

HIBBING, Minn.– Since 2018, the city of Hibbing has been navigating new changes for a potential housing development downtown. And finally, they’re starting to see those plans come into fruition. The historic 400 block on Howard Street has seen quite a bit over the years. Developed in the 1920s, singer Bob Dylan once lived there, and a fire broke out…

New Duluth City Councilors take the oath of office

DULUTH, Minn.– It was a packed house at the Duluth city hall, because three new Duluth City Councilors took the oath of office. A swearing-in ceremony took place at the council chamber for incumbent Terese Tomanek, and newcomers Jordon Johnson, Diane Desotelle, and David Clanaugh. Councilor Clanaugh was not at the ceremony because of a work obligation. As for Tomanek,…

Superior National Forest announces BWCA permits will be available later this month

BWCA, Minn.– During the middle of winter, many outdoor enthusiasts look forward to some summer camping, and the Superior National Forest is staying on top of that. The Superior National Forest announced permit reservations will be up for grabs on Wednesday, January 28th at 9 am CDT. They will be valid starting on May 1st- September 30th, 2026. Officials from…

Local author to donate all profits to student food assistance program

SUPERIOR, Wis.– A local author and professor is bringing a lot of wisdom into the new year with the release of his newest book. ‘Wisdom from the Woods’ is a book designed to carry positivity and relaxation throughout the year. It’s filled with 52 nature inspired metaphors and short stories he’s gathered to give gentle guidance. Author Mark Langenfeld is…

Wussow’s Concert Cafe celebrates New Year’s Eve with all day concert

DULUTH, Minn.– The New Year’s Eve celebrations at Wussow’s began bright and early this morning and sounds of local artists will be filling the room all day. For more than a decade, the concert cafe has made this all-day concert a tradition. Every forty minutes, artists will take turns taking the stage. Attendees of all ages will get to take in…

Lake Superior Zoo announces ‘Porcupine Pub’, and 21+ events

DULUTH, Minn.– The Lake Superior Zoo is saying ‘cheers’ to the new year, by welcoming in some new 21+ opportunities. The ‘Porcupine Pub’ is debuting at the zoo, and it’s bringing along some new events. Starting in January, they will be hosting a trivia night every third Wednesday of the month. Attendees can take advantage of their selection of local…

Senator Amy Klobuchar speaks on potential hemp ban

DULUTH, Minn.– Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar visited Wild State Cider in Duluth Tuesday to discuss the impacts of a potential hemp ban across the state. In less than a year, breweries and cideries could look a lot different. Many of them are currently selling drinks and gummies with THC and CBD and at the end of this year, things could…

Superior Fire Department shares important cold weather tips

SUPERIOR, Wis.– With the cold weather bringing unexpected issues with heating the Superior Fire Department is reminding the community of some important tips. A Battalion Chief with Superior Fire said they see a significant increase with house fires December through march. This is largely related to improper heating techniques, such as poorly ventilated appliances. They said to keep space heaters…

‘Hairball’ rocks their way into Kuwait to perform for service members

DULUTH, Minn.– If you’ve ever been to a Hairball show, you’ve seen their tributes to veterans, and active-duty service members and recently, they gave the ultimate tribute, overseas. The rock cover band, just returned from a trip to Kuwait, that they will never forget. During their visit, Hairball members got to spend time with different military departments, through educational tours,…

Residents at Ecumen Lakeshore meet and greet with Santa Claus

DULUTH, Minn.– Santa made a special early visit in Duluth today to cap off a month full of holiday celebrations. The residents at Ecumen Lakeshore were clearly on the nice list, because Santa came prepared with treats and a chance to meet and greet. But before that, the month has been filled with laughter, sing-alongs, and musical performances. Staff said…

Office of Inspector General Coordinating Council established to combat fraud

DULUTH, Minn.– The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is putting more resources toward preventing fraud across state, instead of being reactive. In September, the Office of Inspector General Council was formed by an Executive order from Governor Tim Walz. The announcement comes during a time the federal government is sounding the alarm on fraud they believe is roughly $9 billion…

Amazon Distribution Center tackling busy holiday season

DULUTH, Minn.– The holidays are here, and for many people, that means finding the perfect gift for their loved ones online. For the Amazon Distribution Center in Duluth, that means a significant increase in package deliveries. But the station manager said, it’s been like that for a while. “The holiday season for us started the day after Thanksgiving. We saw about…

Family Freedom Center hosts holiday market

DULUTH, Minn.– Right on time for the holidays, the Family Freedom Center gave entrepreneurs the chance to show off their products. The holiday market is filling the halls of the family center full of local vendors. Throughout the afternoon, entrepreneurs of all ages showed off items such as baked goods, earrings, wreathes, and sweatshirts. “My favorite part about this is…

Salvation Army in Duluth hosts distribution day for local families

DULUTH, Minn.– The Salvation Army is transformed into a Christmas wonderland, because of their busy distribution days. In years past, they’ve helped out 600 families. But this year, Community Engagement Director said, this year they had twice as many applicants. Throughout the course of the two days, the Salvation Army will be giving 1,000 families a Christmas. Each guest will…

Behind the scenes: Duluth factory is the country’s only producer of popular ingredient

DULUTH, Minn.–Whenever you decide to crack open a bag of salt and vinegar chips or break into a bag of some sour candy you’ve likely tasted malic, or fumaric acid. For 47 years, a key ingredient found in many popular food items has been made right here in Duluth. The factory, Primient Duluth, is the country’s only producer of the…

Chum warming shelter sees record breaking numbers

DULUTH, Minn.– After a stretch of sub-zero temps, chum staff say record-breaking numbers of people are turning to the warming shelter, and they need extra support. The peer recovery specialist at chum told FOX 21 they’ve noticed a drop in winter gear donations. This has led to several cases of frostbite that could result in medical attention. In December, their…

RSM Duluth donates $21,000 to Duluth Area Family YMCA

DULUTH, Minn.– A recent $21,000 donation to the Duluth Area Family YMCA came largely from a place of love. RSM Duluth, part of a global accounting firm, has partnered with the YMCA for its annual ‘Power of Love Stewardship Campaign.’ Each year, the campaign focuses on selecting a youth-centered organization to support through volunteer service and fundraising efforts. A managing…

Salvation Army in Duluth celebrates Truckers for Tots and sock drive

DULUTH, Minn.– It was a big morning for the salvation army, in Duluth as they had two generous events take place, back-to-back. Truck drivers arrived at the salvation army following last night’s mission at fleet farm. There was a massive turn-out with cash donations, and people shopping. Ascendance Trucks in Duluth have made this shopping spree a tradition for 17…

Duluth’s Best Bread steps in to host farmers market after Lincoln Park cancellation

DULUTH, Minn.– Following the sudden cancellation of the ‘Community Action Duluth, Lincoln Park farmers market, the owners of Duluth’s Best Bread, took matters into their own hands. Duluth’s Best Bread is hosting a farmers’ market, at their Superior street location in Duluth. The vendor sales are independent, and they are simply using the space for the market. The owner of…

CHUM urgently seeking gloves and hand warmers as extreme cold weather approaches

  DULUTH, Minn.– With this weekend projecting to be the coldest in the season so far, CHUM is hoping to help prevent frostbite in the community. At this time, CHUM in Duluth is in desperate need for gloves and hand warmers. CHUM staff told FOX 21, they’ve already had several guests experiencing frostbite already. They’ve seen record numbers this season…

Lake Superior Zoo welcomes a pair of Canadian lynx brothers

  DULUTH, Minn.– The Lake Superior Zoo was thrilled to announce two new big cats, after they arrived back in October. Canadian lynx brothers six-year-old Bjorn and seven-year-old Floki traveled to Duluth from the Pittsburgh Zoo. The boys are right at home, as they originated in this region, but they also live all over Canada. Zoo staff telling us, they…

Lake Superior Zoo shows off pygmy slow loris babies

DULUTH, Minn.– The Lake Superior Zoo welcomed two new pygmy slow loris babies, and they’re growing fast! The little critters were born unexpectedly back on November 17th. And since then, zoo staff has been carefully managing their care with supplemental feeding, and health monitoring. Slow Pygmy Lorises are the only venomous primates in the world, and they’re critically endangered. This…

148th Fighter Wing honors TSgt Ryan Ewald with 13th annual toy drive

DULUTH, Minn.– For thirteen years, the 148th Fighter Wing has honored Tech Sergeant Ryan Ewald through their annual toy drive. And this year’s toy haul was quite successful. Two truckloads of toys were brought in for the salvation army distribution. One of the airmen said Ewald passed away from an ATV crash and was known for toy drive involvement every…

Aspirus St. Luke’s becomes first hospital in U.S to earn AAP level 2 NICU designation

DULUTH, Minn.– Aspirus St Luke’s in Duluth is the first hospital in the country to be designated by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for their level 2 NICU. The designation shows that they’ve met new guidelines for proper equipment, protocols, and staff training. The AAP implemented these designation guidelines in 2023 to help standardize NICUs across the country. A…

Duluth Area YMCA to integrate Superior location

DULUTH, Minn.– For over 150 years, the YMCA has graced its presence in Duluth, and 72 years in Superior. Going forward exciting changes have been announced. The Duluth location has now acquired the Superior YMCA location. The employees over in Wisconsin will temporarily be laid off but are expected to immediately be re-hired under the new Duluth ownership of the…

Union Gospel Mission unveils new resting area for community

DULUTH, Minn.– Union Gospel Mission, a nonprofit dedicated to helping out the homeless community, has unveiled a new space for anyone to take advantage of. The Nest resting area is in response to the mission’s goal to accommodate their growing population. Union Gospel Mission officials said they have 75 seats in their dining facility. But they have been seeing up…

Parent speaks out following Superior Middle School incident

SUPERIOR, Wis.– Following the incident that ended up involving the Superior Middle School, one mother is making her voice heard about the aftermath of this situation. During the difficult moments, Katie Hagglund of Duluth said she was impressed with how the City of Superior handled the situation. However, she’s still feeling confusion and mixed emotions after everything played out. But…

Lutsen residents address the loss of Lutsen Lodge and its lingering impact

LUTSEN, Minn.– Following the recent news regarding the Lutsen Lodge arson case, several community members told FOX 21, the potential bankruptcy, and the debt left behind, will impact numerous people. That being said, they’re all still mourning the loss of the historic landmark. One Lutsen resident is speaking out about the aftermath the charges bring the community. “Losing that piece…

Aldi celebrates grand opening in Hibbing Minnesota

HIBBING, Minn.– A popular European grocery chain has opened another location in the Iron Range. Aldi, the budget-friendly grocery store known for its fun finds, celebrated its grand opening today. The new location sits along highway 169 west. Shoppers can also enter a $500 gift-card sweepstakes throughout the opening weekend. One customer shared that she’s thrilled to see this new…

Grant provides St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office with new lifesaving device

LUCAS 3 DULUTH, Minn.– St. Louis County first responders will now be better equipped to save lives, thanks to a grant from the Helmsley Charitable Trust, the University of Minnesota Center for Resuscitative Medicine, and Stryker. The Lucas 3 machine is an automated chest compression device. The lifesaving device allows law enforcement to focus on other tasks, while the patient…