Author: Lauren Martinson

Mayor Jim Paine veto’s lead pipe ordinance

SUPERIOR, Wis. — This evening, Mayor Jim Paine decided to veto the City Council-approved lead service line ordinance during the Superior City Council meeting. After reviewing the amended language, Mayor Paine spoke with city councilors, saying some of the amendments are incomplete or incorrect. He says publishing the ordinance now would create unnecessary costs and that the five-day review period…

Hermantown Community Schools celebrates new hockey arena with ribbon-cutting ceremony

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — Hermantown community members packed into the new arena for its grand opening. What began as a dream became a reality through the support of local businesses, community funding, and lawmakers. The project was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tours of the new NorthStar Ford Arena, which is expected to serve generations of hockey players. “This…

Bentleyville wraps up the holiday season

DULUTH, Minn. — Across the Twin Ports, people spent the past few days taking in the holiday lights, leading to Bentleyville wrapping up with volunteers helping to take down all the lights. Yesterday was the final night of the famous light show. It was accompanied by fireworks while onlookers said ‘goodbye’ to this year’s Christmas season. Today, “teardown” began and…

West Duluth Little League devastated by second fire of 2025

DULUTH, Minn. — On Christmas evening, the Western Duluth Little League suffered a structure fire that destroyed both the equipment shed and concession stand. This is the second time this year that a fire has affected the same structures. The league has released a statement on their Facebook stating, “We are devastated at this news, and moving forward will need…

Animal Allies shares successful adoption tips

DULUTH, Minn. — As the holidays come to a close, some people may realize that a well-intended gift came with more responsibility than expected. Those irresistible puppies and kittens can lead to impulsive decisions, especially during the holidays. Animal Allies in Duluth works year-round to promote successful pet adoptions and shared tips on surrender prevention. “So we, yeah, really discourage…

Shoppers hunt for holiday gifts one book at a time at Fitgers Bookstore

DULUTH, Minn. — As Christmas inches closer, many Americans are scrambling to pick up last-minute gifts. One Duluth store staying busy this holiday season is the Fitger’s Bookstore. Aside from books, their most popular item this year is gift cards. Which they say gives shoppers an easy way to support local businesses and give back to the community. “We love…

Strikepoint handbell ensemble rings in the holiday spirit

DULUTH, Minn. –Strikepoint is recognized as one of the world’s top handbell ensembles. The group continues to share their music globally and locally, using concerts like their annual Christmas one at First United Methodist Church to help fund their concerts across the globe. The funding, much of which comes from generous donations, means the world to the ensemble. “Through our…

American Legion Post 109 hosts annual lutefisk and Swedish meatball dinner

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — The American Legion Post 109 in Two Harbors hosted its 21st annual Lutefisk and Swedish Meatball Dinner, a tradition that brings together locals, travelers, and longtime supporters. Guests purchase meals, choosing either lutefisk or Swedish meatballs, to support veterans. Lutefisk is a Scandinavian tradition stretching back hundreds of years, and with its deep roots in the…

The Original Louis’ Cafe closing its doors permanently

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Popular Greek restaurant The Original Louis’ Cafe in Superior is shutting down permanently. After serving the Twin Ports for over 50 years, the local favorite is closing its doors on Friday, December 5. “It’s been an incredible journey, and we’re so grateful for every moment we’ve shared with our amazing customers and community. The memories we’ve created…

Superior kicks off Small Business Saturday with annual Holiday tree lighting

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The community gathered at Center City Park in Superior’s downtown business district for the annual Holiday tree lighting, which also marked the official kickoff to Small Business Saturday. Before the countdown began, families and community members filled the park, sipping on hot cocoa, enjoying cookies, and listening to cheerful holiday music as Santa and his helpers greeted…

Winter storm brings relief for snowmobilers

DULUTH, Minn. — As the freshly fallen powder hits the ground, snowmobilers across the Northland are gearing up to hit the trails. Many groups, like the Hermantown Night Riders, are preparing to conduct a final sweep of the trails this weekend. This helps keep the paths smooth and clear of debris, which is crucial after snowstorms. The trails are set…

UMD Rocketry performs static motor test

DULUTH, Minn. — After months of hard work, dedication, and teamwork, members of UMD Bulldog Rocketry finally had their moment, putting their brand-new rocket motor to the test before their competition in June. “We do this for our competition in order to prove that our rocket, that the motor that we make ourselves will perform nominally and without any catastrophic…

More than 300 community members gather for Epilepsy Awareness Month

DULUTH, Minn. — More than 300 community members gathered at the Great Lakes Aquarium on the evening of Saturday, Nov. 22, during National Epilepsy Awareness Month. The event, hosted by the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota, featured a catered dinner, arts and crafts, and opportunities for people in the epilepsy community to connect. More than 55,000 Minnesotans live with epilepsy. Epilepsy…

Life House Celebrates new Expansion

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce hosted an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of Duluth’s Life House’s new expansion. The event taking place at Life House highlights the new mental health and wellness center, a space dedicated to providing mental health support for area youth and young adults. The program offers free mental health…

2,700 pounds of food donated at Festival of Trees

DULUTH, Minn. — The 38th annual Festival of Trees fundraising event took place at the DECC over the weekend of Nov. 15, wrapping up with a strong attendance and a successful outcome. Organized by the women’s volunteer and leadership training organization, the Junior League of Duluth, the event featured more than 170 vendors, including retail shops and nonprofits. The festival…

Bent Paddle shares concerns regarding federal hemp ban

DULUTH, Minn. — Congress voted to reopen the Federal Government Wednesday night, and in doing so, passed a bill federally banning hemp-derived THC products. Before the Government reopened, Bent Paddle, a local brewery, shared its concerns regarding the hemp ban. The bill came as a shock to many people in the industry, including the CEO and Director of Operations for…

Gales of November conference attracts over 200 attendees

DULUTH, Minn. — The 38th annual Gales of November maritime conference drew over 200 attendees to the DECC during November 7-8. The educational fundraising event included a maritime trade show, silent auction, and several keynote speakers sharing their insight on the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald, as tomorrow marks the 50th anniversary of its tragic sinking on Lake Superior. “There’s a lot…

Minnesota deer hunters gear up for 2025 season

PIKE LAKE, Minn. — Blaze orange is lighting up the Northland once again as the Minnesota deer opener makes its grand return. Saturday, Nov. 8, marks the official start to the Minnesota deer hunting season, and as hunters are gearing up, supplies are flying off the shelves. FOX21 spoke with the owner of the local sporting goods store, Fisherman’s Corner,…

Trunk or Treaters Take on the Twin Ports

TWIN PORTS — Trunk or treaters didn’t have to search far to find a trunk or treating event on the evening of Oct. 29. From the Coppertop Church in Duluth to the Richard I. Bong Center in Superior, local businesses, families, and other community members came together to celebrate Halloween early with plenty of sweets and smiles. “It’s really important…

Scarium at the Aquarium brings Halloween under the sea

DULUTH, Minn. — Instead of schools of fish taking center stage at the Great Lake Aquarium, it was a Halloween celebration filled with costumes and fun on the evening of Oct. 28. Families gathered for the Scarium at the Aquarium event – A night of Halloween fun, spent exploring exhibits, while stopping at trick-or-treating booths, set up throughout the building….

Runners hit the streets in costume for Superior Nightmare 5K

SUPERIOR, Wis. — In Superior, runners swapped out their usual workout gear for capes, masks, and Halloween spirit. On Oct. 25, The Nightmare 5k brought out runners of all ages, lacing up their shoes and hitting the streets in costumes ranging from bananas to skeletons and even the Aerial Lift Bridge. It’s all part of the city’s Halloween spooktacular, which…

Veterans Resilience Project hosts Second Annual Sweat 4 Vets event

DULUTH, Minn. — Over the weekend, people gathered to help veterans by sweating. This weekend, the Veterans Resilience Project hosted its 2nd annual Sweat 4 Vets event at Endion Station, inviting the public to come and experience the rejuvenating benefits of sauna therapy. People took to the sauna for a sweat session, then followed it up with a refreshing cold…

Taste of Hermantown Serves up Support for Students and Businesses

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — Community spirit and local eats were on full display at this year’s Taste of Hermantown. Oct. 23 marked the 18th annual Taste of Hermantown at AAD Shriners. The event featured a variety of local restaurants serving food and included a silent auction. All proceeds from the evening go toward supporting the Hermantown Legacy Fund, which offers Hermantown…

Castle Danger Heads into 10 years of ‘Pints for a Cause’

  TWO HARBORS, Minn. — Once again, Castle Danger is turning good beer into a good cause as they head into their 10th year of ‘Pints for a Cause.’ Throughout the entire year, the brewery hosts beer release parties every other month in collaboration with six different non-profits from across the region. Each release party showcases one organization’s work through…

University of Wisconsin- Superior Hosts Undergraduate Research Symposium

SUPERIOR, Wis. — On Oct. 14, student researchers gathered at the University of Wisconsin-Superior’s Yellow Jacket Union as the university hosted its undergraduate research symposium. The event provided students with an opportunity to showcase their academic work and share innovative projects with the campus community and the public. More than 30 students from a wide range of disciplines presented research…

Marine Corps Celebrates 250th Birthday in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The evening of Oct. 9, the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center commemorated the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. The department was established on Nov. 10, 1775, in Philadelphia, and this year marks its 250th birthday. The event centered on honoring that legacy and recognizing the Corps’ long-standing history of service and sacrifice. “Tonight,…

Duluth Fire Department “Charges into Safety”

DULUTH, Minn. — For this year’s Fire Safety Week, the Duluth Fire Department has chosen the theme, “Charging into Safety.” The Department is emphasizing the importance of properly caring for lithium-ion batteries. These batteries power everything from power tools to cell phones, and with so many around us, it’s important to handle them safely to prevent fires. To help prevent…

Twin Ports Interchange Project Wrapping Up

DULUTH, Minn. — Relief is in sight for drivers who travel along Minnesota I-35. After years of detours and construction, the long-anticipated “Can of Worms” project is nearing completion. On Monday, Oct. 6, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, joined by state and local leaders, will hold a ceremonial ribbon-cutting beneath the newly constructed Highway 53 bridge, located on 20th Avenue…

Sheila St. Clair Remembrance Ceremony

DULUTH, Minn. – Sept. 27, 2025, marks ten years since indigenous woman Sheila St. Clair went missing from her home in Duluth. To honor her memory and highlight the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People, organizers are hosting a remembrance ceremony for Sheila. This event is intended to bring the community together to support and empathize with victims, families,…