Community

Festival of trees fundraiser brings holiday spirit

DULUTH, Minn. — People gathered at the DECC for the 37th annual Festival of Trees fundraiser. The weekend-long event doubles as one of Duluth’s largest “pop-up” arts, crafts, and gift shows, featuring a mini-tree auction, 170 vendors selling handmade gifts, treats, and art. The event is hosted by the Junior League of Duluth, a nonprofit organization with a mission to…

Indigenous winter market kicks off holiday shopping season

CLOQUET, Minn. — An indigenous winter craft market at the Cloquet Community Center helped kick off the local holiday shopping season. The market showcased pieces from a number of the area’s indigenous artists, each showing off their creations from blankets to bead work. According to one of the event’s organizers, markets like these help local artists get a headstart on…

Grand View Golf Course reopens for final weekend of season

DULUTH, Minn. — Northland golfers are sneaking in one last round at Grand View Golf Course before colder weather strikes. The course, which had previously closed down for the winter, opened back up for one final weekend of golf. Dozens of golfers have been coming out to celebrate the end of the fall season, but the owner of the course…

Sax Zim Bog extending the length of popular Auggie’s Bogwalk

MEADOWLANDS, Minn.– Over the years, Sax Zim Bog out in Meadowlands has captured the hearts of countless nature enthusiasts. One of their most famous landmarks is going through what staff is calling a long overdue extension. When visiting Sax Zim Bog, visitors have different goals and missions. Whether it’s searching for a life bird or trying your luck at some…

Filipovich announces run for State Auditor

DULUTH, Minn. — Former Duluth City Councilor Zack Filipovich wants to make a return to politics as Minnesota State Auditor. Filipovich announced his campaign launch today at the Duluth Labor Temple. He says he’s ready to work for small governments across the state after serving two terms as an At-Large city councilor in Duluth, advocating for regional economic development, and spending…

CURE hosts educational event surrounding data centers

DULUTH, Minn. — Zeitgeist has welcomed Twin Ports residents in for a conversation about data centers. The evening, which was hosted by CURE, was meant educate locals interested in the topic on the different impacts data centers have on communities. The organizers say that when data centers are discussed, it’s important to have all the facts before conversations are had….

Superior Fire Department launches annual “Toys for Tots” fundraiser

SUPERIOR, Wis.– The spirit of giving is around the corner, and that means the Superior Fire Department is hosting its annual “Toys for Tots” fundraiser. The firefighters team up with the U.S. Marines Corps to gather as many toys as possible for local families this Christmas. Anybody can drop off new toys at the main fire station at numerous locations…

Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert addresses ‘alarming’ increase with political violence

DULUTH, Minn.– The rise in political violence is as real as ever in the United States. In Minnesota just this year, two lawmakers and their spouses were shot multiple times at their homes.  House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her spouse were shot and killed.  Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were shot multiple times and survived. Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert…

Attorney for group suing Duluth Vineyard Church reacts to pastor leaving church

Spencer T. Kuvin DULUTH, Min, – Pastor John Kliewer lead Duluth Vineyard’s congregation following a sex scandal from their youth pastor and his family. After being put on leave for a number of months, Kliewer left the Duluth Vineyard. Kliewer led the effort to uncover what happened within church walls when Jackson Gaitlin was sexually assaulting children. Vineyard USA and…

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…

The Duluth 1200 Fund celebrates 40th Anniversary

  DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth 1200 Fund celebrated its 40th anniversary at Zeitgeist. The private non-profit supports entrepreneurs and business owners by providing mentorships and loans with a mission to grow the economy and create jobs in Duluth. Wednesday night’s celebration was to celebrate the hard work of everyone involved and the success stories. “We really hope that one,…

Chester Bowl preparing for upcoming winter season

DULUTH, Minn. — Chester Bowl has begun it’s preparing for the upcoming winter season. The preparations kicked off with ski fittings for young skiers and their families who will be renting the equipment during the season. With events like these featuring well over 100 athletes a night, it’s the work of volunteers that helps Chester get ready for the big…

3rd Annual Youth Wellness Summit Educates 130 Students

SUPERIOR, Wis.–More than 130 students representing 10 school districts had the chance to dive into a variety of activities focused on promoting wellness. At University Wisconsin Superior, there were thirteen breakout sessions ranging from learning how to cope with stress, to balancing sports and wellbeing. The entire opportunity was planned and put on by high schoolers. The middle schoolers attending…

Spectrum Gives 5K to the Duluth Honor Guard

DULUTH, Minn. — Spectrum recognized the efforts of the Duluth Honor Guard by presenting them with a 5 thousand dollar check today Spectrum’s spokesperson said their national workforce is over 10% veterans, so choosing to help support the Honor Guard is a natural choice. The Honor Guard performs military funeral honors, flag raisings, and other services to honor local veterans….

Local businesses host free dinner for veterans in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Armed forces veterans celebrated Veterans Day with a free dinner in Superior. The evening, hosted by Superior Elks Lodge #403, was filled with ceremonies to help bring those in attendance together, and honor those who could not attend, or never made it home. For veterans young and old, it’s events like these that help make each Veterans…

Proposed Wisconsin hemp regulation bill creates uncertainty

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Lawmakers in Wisconsin have proposed a new hemp-derived cannabinoid regulation bill, putting farmers and business owners in a difficult position. The bill proposes a three-tier licensing system requiring separate manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. According to Craig Sutherland, owner of Sutherland CBD in Superior says the new regulations would mean expensive permits and new taxes on farmers, processors,…

UWS honors campus veterans serving the community

SUPERIOR, Wis. — UWS celebrated their Veterans on campus today. A public event was held to honor those who’ve served. The ceremony included a presentation of colors, nationals anthem, and presented the Henry Blomberg Excellence in Service Awards. The awards honored campus veterans working with veterans, campus police, and in hospice care. “Veterans are a huge part of our society. They’re…

Split Rock Lighthouse commemorates 50th anniversary of Edmund Fitzgerald sinking

TWO HARBORS, Minn.– Today marks the 50th anniversary of the well-known Great Lakes tragedy. During a fierce storm, the Edmund Fitzgerald went down, resulting in the loss of its 29-man crew. And for forty years, the Split Rock Lighthouse has acknowledged the great loss. “We’ve never had to cap the event before, but we knew, because of the 50th anniversary…

Pastor tasked with leading Duluth Vineyard following sex scandal leaves church; Church apologizes to pastor

John Kliewer DULUTH, Minn. – Pastor John Kliewer was tasked by the Duluth Vineyard’s congregation to lead their flock following a sex scandal from their youth pastor and his family.  Kliewer has now left the Duluth Vineyard. In March of 2025, the Duluth Vineyard placed Kliewer on leave to investigate him.  That investigation was focusing on allegations that Kliewer’s management created…

CHUM’s prepped for Thanksgiving Boxes

DULUTH, Minn. — CHUM’s prepped to hand out over 300 boxes of Thanksgiving staples to families for the holiday. Each box will include Turkey, Stuffing, Gravy, Instant Potatoes, canned fruits and veggies, mac and cheese, and of course pumpkin pies. They’ll include other products need to make those items as well such as milk. Chum partnered with local churches, schools…

Free Gym Memberships For Federal Workers

DULUTH, MINN-  Starting this month, the YMCA is waiving membership fees and offering free memberships for federal employees on furlough during the government shut down. “I feel a sense of hope because I know that when we work together, when we support each other there’s nothing that we can’t get through.” Says Duluth YMCA Sarah Cole. Come in and show…

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…

Historical marker unveiled at Barkers Island in honor of Fitzgerald’s sinking

SUPERIOR, Wis. — People from around the Twin Ports gathered at Barker’s Island for the unveiling of the new Wisconsin state historical marker commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Edmund Fitzgerald sinking. Through the efforts of the local group, Friends of the Fitz, and the Wisconsin Historical Society’s State Historical Markers Program, Superior has officially installed a historical marker to…

Trump Administration Demands States ‘Undo’ Full SNAP Payouts as States Warn of ‘Catastrophic Impact’

President Donald Trump’s administration is demanding states “undo” full SNAP benefits paid out under judges’ orders last week, now that the U.S. Supreme Court has stayed those rulings, marking the latest swing in a seesawing legal battle over the anti-hunger program used by 42 million Americans. The demand from the U.S. Department of Agriculture came as more than two dozen…

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,…

Safe Haven partners with Northland Essentia locations for phone drive

DULUTH, Minn. — Local Essentia Health employees have come together to donate their old cellphones for a good cause. The old phones were donated to Safe Haven Shelter and Resource Center in Duluth, a center for survivors of domestic abuse, where the devices can be repurposed in order to help bring safety to those in need. “These cell phones will…

UMD hosts “Gales of November” in honor of Edmund Fitzgerald

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of Minnesota-Duluth played host to a special night of remembrance in honor of Lake Superior’s most famous ship. The production “Gales of November” took the stage at the school’s Marshall Performing Arts Center for a 1-night-only performance to relive the tale of the sinking of the S.S Edmund Fitsgerald. Just like the Fitzgerald, the show’s…

Elite Sports Complex hosts grand opening

DULUTH, Minn. — The Elite Sports Complex hosted a grand opening for its 40,000-square-foot facility located in West Duluth. The evening consisted of a tour showcasing what the large complex has to offer the Twin Ports. The facility is geared towards athletes and features four indoor turf quads, five pickleball courts, six batting cages, a world-class gym, and Essentia Health…

Northland Chevrolet presents check donation of $2,600 to St. Luke’s Foundation

DULUTH, Minn. — Representatives from Northland Chevrolet wrapped up breast cancer awareness month with a check donation of $2,600 to the St. Luke’s Foundation’s Breast Cancer Support Fund. The dealership pledged to donate $100 for every new vehicle sold through October. The funds went to the foundation, helping to provide bags filled with post-surgery essentials and care for Aspirus St….

Halvor Lines breaks ground on new headquarters

DULUTH, Minn.– Halvor Lines, a trucking company employing nearly 500 drivers in Superior announced a game changing expansion. The company has purchased new property still in superior because of the conflicting Blatnik Bridge construction. Officials at Halvor Lines are calling it significant expansion to its headquarters with this new project. The new building will give drivers an upgraded living space…

Red Kettle Karnival brings the spirit of giving

DULUTH, Minn. — The Salvation Army and Bentlyville teamed up again to shine some bright and colorful lights on the Red Kettle Karnival fundraiser. The free family-friendly event brought people from across the region together in the spirit of giving back to the community. The festival offered a chance to walk inside Bentleyville’s 128-foot LED tree in exchange for a…

UMD’s Tau Kappa Epsilon to Host Annual Fundraiser for St. Jude

DULUTH, Minn.– A fraternity chapter UMD has spent nearly a decade raising an impressive amount of money for St. Jude Research Hospital. Over the past eight years, the Tau Kappa Epsilon UMD Duluth chapter has kept busy with fundraising for the organization. Each yearly campaign involves collecting donations from friends, families, and local businesses. The first year they began, the…

Lake Superior Zoo announces birth of critically endangered cotton-top tamarin

DULUTH, Minn.– It’s been all monkey business at the Lake Superior Zoo when it comes to raising their newest little primate. The not yet named cotton-top tamarin was born 36 days ago and is thriving alongside mom “Mira” and dad Dino”. The species itself originates in Colombia and is critically endangered. Zoo staff said there’s less than 2,000 in the…

Right to Repair passes in Duluth

DULUTH, Min. – The “Right to Repair” ballot initiative passed with more than two thirds of yes votes. The measure asked, “Shall the petition ordinance 25-015-0 amending Chapter 29A of the Duluth City Code be passed to give tenants the right to make repairs in residential rental property, and withhold up to half of a month’s rent or $500, whichever…

Diane Desotelle wins her race for Duluth City Council

Diane Desotelle DULUTH, Min. – Diane Desotelle won the race for Duluth’s 2nd City Council District. She won with 80% of the vote compared to Chris Adatte’s 20%. The race was for the open seat after Mike Mayou resigned. Deborah DeLuca was appointed to fill Mayou’s term, but she said she would not run for the seat. Categories: Community, Minnesota,…

Littlefork-Big Falls School District special election decided by four votes

Littlefork-Big Falls School District Logo KOOCHICHING COUNTY, Min. – In the Special Election for School Board Member Littlefork-Big Falls School District (ISD #362) the race came down to just four votes. Chelsey Melander garnered 134 votes compared to Delane Klemetse’s 130 votes.   Categories: Community, Education, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News, Political

UMD Students Make Voices Heard at Polls

DULUTH, Minn. — College students took to the polls to cast their ballots for the city and school board elections. Students have been gearing up for this election, attending UMD forums on campus. Each forum featured city council representatives and some at-large candidates to help students prepare to vote. The candidates spoke to students regarding things that affect them. “They…

Local Law Enforcement Holds Multi-Jurisdictional Training Exercise At UW-Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Police departments met on the University of Wisconsin-Superior campus to conduct a training exercise. They warned students and community members ahead of time that there would be a large police presence on site, as they simulated a hostage situation at the school. The exercise involved multiple agencies across Northwestern Wisconsin and Minesota working together in a controlled…

Upper Lakes Foods Show serving up hungry customers and guests

DULUTH, Minn.– The DECC in Duluth was packed with 60 Upper Lakes Foods vendors, showcasing a delicious sneak peek of what they’re offering. The bi-annual event was prepared to serve thousands of hungry guests. It’s meant to foster community connections and showcase standout products. Upper Lakes Foods caters to 24-hundred customers around Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. Many of their…

The Waging Peace Project Awards 2nd Annual “Duluth Peace Hero Award”

DULUTH, Minn. — Local heroes were being recognized as the “Duluth Peace Hero Award” was given out. The Waging Peace Project hosted the 2nd annual event, with the recipient of the award being given a $1,000 cash prize. The nominees are all local community members who are “making a positive change” in their community. To receive the award, nominees had…