Community

Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge celebrates 20 years of serving the Northland

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge celebrated their 20th anniversary with an open house. Community members were given tours of the 72-bed recovery facility. The evening featured a program which included a choir performance, testimonials from program graduates, and words from the founder, Pastor Rich Scherber. MNTC serves men of the Northland facing addiction issues and offers long…

Many River Montessori Middle School students raise over $2,000 for Loaves and Fishes

DULUTH, Minn.– Each year, Many Rivers Montessori middle schoolers participate in their “Empty Bowl Fundraiser”. The students spent months planning, organizing, creating bowls, and a menu. Then, they host an event with food available, as well as bowls for purchase. This year, the kids chose to donate proceeds to Loaves and Fishes, a nonprofit dedicated to helping out the community….

Duluth doctor navigates loss of clinic due to fire 2 weeks before opening

DULUTH, Minn.– In two short weeks, Palisade Direct Primary Care was set to open its doors. “I was kind of like speechless,” said Dr. Jay Allen, the founder of Palisade Direct Primary Care. “We’ve been spending the entire time renovating. Mike and Deb, the owners of Uncle Loui’s and the owners of the building, have been putting a lot of…

Duluth’s FIRST Robotics Competition brings in Students from around the world

DULUTH, Minn. — High schoolers and robots are on the loose at the DECC as the FIRST Robotics launches into this year’s competition! Two full-size regional competitions are underway, marking week one of the 2026 season. The winners will go head-to-head to move on to the world championships. Each year, there is a new challenge, and students have six weeks…

Former UW-Superior Chancellor Julius Erlenbach passes away at 82

SUPERIOR, Wis. — UW-Superior is mourning the passing of Former Chancellor Julius Erlenbach. Erlenbach passed away on February 28 at 82. UWS said during his time as chancellor, he reshaped the UWS campus, both culturally and physically. Erlenbach was integral in the building of the Yellowjacket Union and Swenson Hall. He retired in 2010 and continued to visit the campus and…

New rules proposed for public comment plus other changes at Duluth City Council meetings

Duluth City Council Meeting Gallery (2/23/26) DULUTH, Minn. – Four Duluth City Councilors are proposing a number of changes to Duluth City Council meeting Standing Rules and order. These changes follow heated city council meetings that have seen members of the gallery trying to shout down city councilors.  The resolution is co-sponsored by councilors Jordon Johnson, Arik Forsman, Roz Randorf,…

Tony Dierckins debunks Duluth myths at the Glensheen Mansion

DULUTH, Minn. — If you’ve spent time in Duluth, you may have heard that the canal was hand dug by “100 stout men” in 1871, or perhaps that there are tunnels beneath the Glensheen Mansion. Those questions and more were addressed by local author Tony Dierckins at the “Duluth’s Greatest Myths” event held at the Glensheen Mansion. Dierckins debunked several…

Local construction union expresses interest in Hermantown data center development

DULUTH, Minn.– Following Tuesday’s announcement regarding Google’s involvement with the proposed Hermantown Data Center, a construction union based in Duluth has expressed interest in helping make it happen. The Duluth Building Construction Trades Council said, this would be their time to shine. The president of the union, Jack Carlson told FOX 21, the sheer size of the proposed data center…

Mixed reactions as Google plans Hermantown Data Center

HERMANTOWN, Minn.– Minnesota Power, and the City of Hermantown both said, it’s an exciting day for the northeast Minnesotan region. “This is a very exciting day for us, as we have been chosen by Google to provide the electric service and power to serve the new facility in Hermantown,” said Julie Pierce, Vice President of Strategy and Planning for MN…

Animal Allies preps for ‘Fur Ball 2026’ fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — Calling all party animals, Animal Allies is prepped for their biggest fundraiser – The Fur Ball! This annual event will be held at Northland Country Club on Thursday, March 12, and will have food, games, live music, and more. There will even be a traveling table magician, making it a magical night. Animal Allies is fully donation-funded,…

The City of Duluth hosts first Lester Park Land Use Study feedback session

DULUTH, Minn. — The City of Duluth held its first open house regarding the Lester Park Golf Course Land Use Study. The event gave Duluthians a chance to learn about the work completed so far and shared ideas about what they’d like to see at the site in the future. Attendees were able to review research on existing conditions, including water…

Essentia Health Workers Picket to protect mental health services

DULUTH, Minn. — Dozens of Essentia Health Workers held an informational picket to Protect Critical Mental Health Services. Members of United Steelworkers Local 9460 have filed charges with the National Labor Relations Board over Essentia’s decision to transition recreational therapists into related behavioral health technician roles. The union is urging Essentia to prioritize patient care over profits and to protect…

Giant snow sculpture honoring the life of UMD super fan “Hoagie”

DULUTH, Minn.– Right along the corner of 21st avenue and 4th street in Duluth, one community member is showing his support for a beloved Bulldog superfan. Harry Welty, a well-known snow sculptor in Duluth, has unveiled his latest creation. It honors Dale “Hoagie” Haagenson one of the area’s biggest supporters of all things UMD sports. “Hoagie” passed away Tuesday February…

Community tries their luck at the YMCA “Chuck-A-Puck” event

HERMANTOWN, Minn.– Community members tried their luck by chucking some pucks at The YMCA at Essentia Wellness Center. Chuck-A-Puck is the largest fundraiser of the year at the YMCA in Hermantown. The goal of the event is to raise $13-14,000. The money brought it from Chuck-A-Puck helps fund local scholarships. It also helps provide financial assistance for day camps, swimming…

MN Power launches ‘smart sphere’ technology

DULUTH, Minn.– Innovative technology is taking over how Minnesota power lines will be operated, with simple, 8 pound, ‘smart spheres’ and drones. The sphere sensors installed using drones provides real time data on weather, temperature, and line conditions. They send the data back, using cellular, and satellite connections, and they’re powered by the lines themselves. Having this upgrade to power…

American Heart Association kicks off ‘Hard Hats with Heart’ Campaign

DULUTH, Minn. — The American Heart Association hosted its inaugural kickoff to the ‘Hard Hats with Heart’ Campaign. It’s all about improving the health and well-being of construction workers by promoting healthy food options, encouraging physical activity during breaks, and educating employees on the signs of heart disease. The American Heart Association says 343,000 construction workers have already been diagnosed with…

UW-Superior hosts spring career fair

SUPERIOR, Wis.– It was a packed house Thursday at UW-Superior for their ‘all majors’ career fair. The Yellowjacket Union was full of booths at the spring career fair. Students got to check out opportunities ranging from jobs in law enforcement to positions at assisted living facilities. With graduation season approaching landing that first real-world job is key. But simple networking…

Minnesota March Foodshare Campaign matching Salvation Army donations

DULUTH, Minn.– Minnesota’s food-share campaign is coming up in March. And the Duluth Salvation Army is doing its part to get donations to help feed people in need. During the month of March to April 6th, the Salvation Army will be proportionally matched through the Minnesota Foodshare March Campaign. At this time, they are highlighting their medical food shelf. It…

Twin Ports clothing swap promotes style and sustainability

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Many refreshed their wardrobe without spending a dime at a community clothing swap in Superior. Ritual Marketplace opened its space for the event hosted by Jill Joyce and Tiersa Wodash. Transforming its space into a hub for sharing style and sustainability. From shoes to jewelry, and outerwear to hats, there was something for everyone, with no minimum…

Food Farm hosts 10th annual Great Rutabaga Giveaway

DULUTH, Minn. — Food Farm hosted its 10th annual Great Rutabaga Giveaway at Whole Foods Co-op-Denfeld. The event celebrated local farming in the Northland, highlighting how fresh produce can be grown and stored nearly year-round, even during Minnesota winters. Community members stopped by to grab a free rutabaga, pick up recipe cards, and take home carrot seeds as they prepare…

Minnesota Braver Angels works to bridge political divide

DULUTH, Minn. – Braver Angels, a non-partisan national organization, is spreading its initiative locally, aimed at bringing people together across political divides. Formerly known as Better Angels, Braver Angels was founded in 2016 in New York and has since expanded to chapters across multiple states, including the Northern Minnesota Braver Angels Alliance. The nonprofit is dedicated to political depolarization, bringing…

Outdoor researchers gather for collaboration and conservation meeting

DULUTH, Minn.– A large group of outdoor enthusiasts are meeting to discuss research and projects with conservation. The Minnesota chapters of American foresters, fisheries, and wildlife societies are joining forces for their largest meeting of the year. This year’s event has a focus on research, and efforts with conservation. One of the attendees said, advocating for the future is powerful….

Downtown Duluth snow clearing scheduled

DULUTH, Minn. – City of Duluth street maintenance crews will be removing snow from right-of-ways in the downtown business district on Thursday, February 26 and Friday, February 27, 2026.  Snow removal operations will generally occur from 7:00 AM until 3:30 PM. Some people call the clearing process “the snow train.” No parking signs will be posted in the area ahead of…

Army Corp of engineers approve permit for line 5 relocation

FILE – Pipeline used to carry crude oil sits at the Superior, Wis., terminal of Enbridge Energy, June 29, 2018. DULUTH, Minn. & MADISON, Wis. — Energy company Enbridge has finally started work on rerouting an aging oil pipeline around a tribal reservation in northern Wisconsin after seven years of legal wrangling, moving ahead despite two new lawsuits that still…

Duluth Public Schools issues ICE‑interaction protocols to school bus drivers

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth School District has provided its bus and vehicle drivers with a list of protocols should they have interactions with ICE or other federal law enforcement. The protocol obtained by FOX21 shows step-by-step instructions for drivers during both morning routes and evening routes, as well as what to do if the bus gets pulled over, boxed…

Volunteers needed for upcoming “Passport to the World” event

SUPERIOR, Wis.– Superior Middle School is excited to bring back their “Passport to the World” event, but they are also looking for volunteers to make it possible. The free event is aimed at teaching students, and even community members about a variety of cultures. This is done through food demonstrations, clothing, and even music. It’s been a hit in the…

Superior Middle School hosts 2nd Annual Youth Author Conference

SUPERIOR, Wis.– Inspired middle school writers had the opportunity to meet and network with numerous local authors. For the second year, by popular demand, Superior Middle School has honored this tradition. 100 kids got the chance to hear from the keynote speaker, a fantasy novel author, as well as a playwright, journalist, and even a high school author. The goal…

Mandela Barnes talks tariffs during Reject the Washington Way tour

SUPERIOR, Wis.– Ahead of President Trump’s state of the union address tonight, a candidate for Wisconsin governor, and former Lieutenant Governor, Mandela Barnes is touring the state addressing Trump and Tom tiffany’s “Washington Way” agenda. Barnes is focusing on President Trump’s tariffs that he said is raising prices on healthcare, childcare, housing and groceries. The conference was joined by Superior…

The 2026 First Ship contest is live

Duluth’s Lift Bridge DULUTH, Minn. – The 43rd Annual First Ship Contest is open for guesses. The Duluth Seaway Port Authority and Visit Duluth are partnering for the First Ship Contest. The person who correctly guesses when the season’s first “saltie” sails into the seaport could win a Duluth prize package.  A “saltie” means an oceangoing vessel to complete a…

Olympic medal winners Corey and Korey return to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth-based Olympic medal-winning curling duo has returned. On Monday, a crowd of cheering fans met Olympians Korey Dropkin and Cory Thiesse as they got off their flight at the Duluth International Airport Family and friends brought noise makers and created signs of celebration. “We’re just so happy to be home now and be able to sleep…

Hoops Brewing closes after nearly 10 years

DULUTH, Minn. — One of Duluth’s premier brewers celebrated its final pours on Monday before permanently closing Hoops Brewing in Canal Park opened in 2017 and was known for its German-inspired beers and deep community roots. Owner Dave Hoops announced the closure in a video posted to Facebook earlier this month. SEE PREVIOUS: Hoops Brewing set to close after nearly…

Emotions run high at Duluth City Council Meeting

  Duluth City Council Meeting Gallery (2/23/26) DULUTH, Minn. — Monday’s Duluth City Council meeting continued discussions around civility in the chambers and respecting each other’s views. This was the first council meeting since some in the audience chose to jeer and speak over councilors two weeks ago. Some councilors took that meeting as a boiling point on issues of…

Head of the Lakes United Way to host 5th annual experience auction

DULUTH, Minn. — Head of the Lakes United Way is a week away from hosting its 5th annual online experience auction. The auction offers over 80 items, including hotel stays, sports memorabilia and family activities. The auction is a large fundraiser for United Way, and raises money to support programs and various events. Many local businesses support the annual event…

Lake Superior YMCA gearing up for 5th annual ‘Chuck a Puck’ event

  HERMANTOWN, Minn.– The community has pitched in over $17,000 worth of prizes for the Lake Superior YMCA’s “Chuck a Puck” event. And pretty soon, the fundraiser will cater back to the community. On Monday, March 2nd, puck purchasers can try their luck at this event, to earn some prizes. From restaurant gift cards, tickets to events and plenty of…

The popular Soul Food Night returns to UMD

DULUTH, Minn. — Smooth jazz and the aroma of soul food brought life to the University of Minnesota Duluth over the weekend. The college’s Black Student Association hosted the annual Soul Food Night, transforming the evening into a celebration of African American Culture. This year’s event was Harlem-themed. People enjoyed an open speech, poetry, a jazz band, and dancing. Soul…

Minnesota Star Wars Collectors Alliance hosts 3rd annual Frozen Force Art Showcase

HERMANTWON, Minn. — People across the Northland gathered at the AAD Shrine Event Center for the 3rd annual Frozen Force artist showcase. It originally started as a small gathering in the front yard of Stephen Kaarbo. He’s the president of the Minnesota Star Wars Collectors Alliance. This year, the showcase featured more than 20 local and national artists offering original…

Northern Lights Girls Basketball Team host grocery bagging fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — The Northern Lights Girls Basketball Team held its grocery bagging fundraiser at Super One. Since 1996, the organization’s main focus has been ensuring that every player can compete and improve regardless of financial circumstances. To make this possible, the program hosts fundraisers to help cover fees for families who need assistance, keeping basketball accessible to all. “We’ve…

Piedmont Youth Hockey Association hosts Panther Pancake Breakfast

DULUTH, Minn — The hockey community came together for the Panther Pancake Breakfast fundraiser. The fundraiser was put on by the Piedmont Youth Hockey Association, a community-run non-profit that aims to keep youth hockey accessible, inclusive, and safe. The event doubled as a celebration of a successful hockey season despite the setback that followed last year’s vandalism. Attendees had the…