Community

A New Education Co-op Fills Needs for Families During Pandemic

Any student from the region in K-12 can attend the program.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Eastridge Community Church in Duluth is making an effort to support families facing childcare and education needs during the global pandemic. The church has launched its new education co-op. The program is a consistent option for kids in area schools to learn and socialize together. Volunteers and tutors will be on hand to help fill this…

The Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon Will Happen Without Spectators

DULUTH, Minn. – The Beargrease Marathon is one of the most anticipated winter events in the Northland. While the marathon is scheduled to take place this coming January, it will happen without any spectators. This year, onlookers will have to view the live race from home. Minnesota guidelines only allow for a 250 person capacity for the event. Most of…

Duluth’s Best Bread Now Offering New Cheese Curd Creation

Cooking Connection: Fresh Cheese Curd Bread at Duluth's Best Bread

DULUTH, Minn. – While the ‘Unofficial Minnesota State Fair’ is now over at Duluth’s Best Bread, the creative bakers are choosing to keep one of the items they offered during the promotion. Co-owner Robert Lillegard and his brother Michael Lillegard have come up with Cheese Curd Bread. The dough is the same that’s used for their other specialty breads, but…

Midday Update 9-10-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Northland Newborns 9-10-20

FOX 21 and Essentia Health Team Up to Showcase Newborn Bundles of Joy Across the Northland

Every Thursday morning on FOX 21 Local News from 7 – 9 a.m., we’re teaming up with Essentia Health to showcase Northland Newborns. If you would like to submit a photo with a description of a newborn in your life, click here, or email fox21morningcrew@kqdsfox21.tv. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, Northland Newborns Tags: Brett Scott, community, Essentia Health,…

Morning Update 9-10-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

UMD Students Move-in After The University’s Two-Week Pause Ends

In-person classes are scheduled to begin Monday, while some students have already started many of their courses remotely.

DULUTH, Minn.- The University of Minnesota Duluth took a two-week pause to come up with better strategies to safely welcome students after similar universities across the nation were experiencing surges in coronavirus cases. The brief pause has since expired and UMD students have been given the green light to move on campus. Hundreds of students unpacked their cars filled to…

Bentleyville Tour Of Lights Will Look Different This year

The event is the country's largest walk-through lighting display.

DULUTH, Minn. – Thousands of people make the Bentleyville Tour of Lights part of their holiday season each year, but this year is going to be unlike any other with the pandemic still causing concern. “We made the decision as the board of the Bentleyville to offer something rather than nothing at all,” said Nathan Bentley, executive director for Bentleyville….

2021 Grandma’s Marathon Races to Be Held at Half Capacity

Registration will be open on October 1st at 7 p.m. central time and organizers expect it to fill up fast.

DULUTH, Minn. – This past year saw big changes for Grandma’s Marathon. The race was cancelled for the first time ever and runners were allowed to participate virtually. As for next year’s event, the plan is that it will be back to in-person, but with a few changes. The 45th annual Grandma’s Marathon, the Garry Bjorklund Half-Marathon and the William…

Midday Update 9-9-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Morning Update 9-9-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

DECC Stage Set for Donald Trump Jr.’s Visit — With COVID-19 Restrictions

The Trump Campaign and Secret Service conducted a site visit and agreed to all rules in place.

DULUTH, Minn.- The stage is set in Duluth to welcome Donald Trump Jr. to the DECC Wednesday for a “Make America Great Again” event. In the ballroom where the President’s son will speak, a maximum of 250 people are allowed inside including campaign staff per Governor Tim Walz’s order during the pandemic. Seats are six feet apart, masks are required,…

First Frost Of Season Could Be Concerning For Gardeners

Gardeners say frost can cause a plant's growth rate to decline immediately.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Temperatures are starting to drop for the season and maybe creating frost concerns for local gardeners. Experts say when frost hits the vegetation will go into conservation mode and save nutrients down into the roots. The pores on leaves will also close to prevent the cold from coming in, which could cause the plant’s cells to freeze…

A COVID-19 Inspired Exhibit Headed For UMD’s Tweed Museum of Art

The exhibition will showcase the art of more than a half dozen local artists.

DULUTH, Minn. – A COVID-19 pandemic inspired exhibit is coming to UMD’s Tweed Museum of Art. The exhibition is titled “Creating Apart.” It will showcase the art of more than a half dozen local artists. Each piece of artwork will also tell the artists stories and how the pandemic has impacted them differently. By sharing this artwork the exhibit’s curator…

The EPA Awards Funding To Restore Environmental Areas Of Concern In Twin Ports

"When you clean up the water, remove the contamination, and restore the habitat, it is an immediate benefit for the environment and the community," said Kurt Thiede, Regional Administrator for the EPA.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it will be providing nearly $14 million in funding to help rehabilitate environmental areas of concern along the St. Louis River and the Great Lakes. The financial support is part of the EPA’s five-year plan to restore environments within the great lakes. The St. Louis River in the Twin Ports has…

Midday Update 9-8-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Nominate a Northland Family in Need for This Year’s ‘Best Christmas Ever’ Giveaway

'Best Christmas Ever' Nominations Will Remain Open Through Nov. 15, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – Best Christmas Ever is a non-profit organization working to partner with business leaders and communities across the country to lift up families who have fallen on difficult times due to health conditions and other life challenges. The vision of Best Christmas Ever started when Co-Founder Don Liimatainen began battling Ulcerative Colitis in 2010. It was Christmas Eve,…

Morning Update 9-8-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

Ruth House In Superior Needs Donations

Walking Ministries, which runs Ruth House, will soon open two new locations in Washburn and Burnett counties.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Ruth House in Superior is preparing its warming centers before those cold nights hit the Northland, but they are asking for the community’s help. The local organization currently has warming centers in both Duluth and Superior. The group is looking for donations of cots, blankets and, sleeping bags. They are also hoping members of the community…

Bishop-Elect Resigns Amid Sexual Abuse Allegation

A priest recently tapped by Pope Francis to be made a bishop for a Minnesota diocese has resigned after an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor surfaced before he could take up his post.

VATICAN CITY (AP) — A priest recently tapped by Pope Francis to be made a bishop for a Minnesota diocese has resigned after an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor surfaced before he could take up his post. The Vatican announced without giving details on Monday that Francis had accepted the resignation of the Bishop-elect Michel Mulloy, who was…

OMC Smokehouse Shuts Doors Temporarily After Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19

The restaurant says they will be identifying anyone who may have been in contact with the employee and encourage them to get tested.

  DULUTH, Minn. — A popular restaurant in Duluth’s Lincoln Park Neighborhood, OMC Smokehouse is closing temporarily due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19 Sunday. “We are just working on trying to understand this and trying to do it the right way,” said owner Tom Hanson. In a post on their Facebook page Sunday, OMC Smokehouse said they will…

Iron Range Community Honors 15-Year-Old Alaric Lamke

A Celebration of Life is Happening Saturday, Sept. 5 at Miners Memorial Building in Virginia

VIRGINIA, Minn. – The Iron Range community is mourning the loss of one of their own as they prepare to say a final farewell Saturday, Sept. 5. On Saturday, Aug. 29, in the blink of an eye, 15-year-old Alaric Lamke of Britt, Minnesota, lost his life after an accident involving a skid steer. Now Alaric’s family and friends are looking…

Labor Day Gas Prices May Hit Lowest Since 2004

The lowest price per gallon since 2004 was $1.82 according to Gas Buddy.

DULUTH, Minn. – Gas prices may be the lowest they’ve been in over a decade just in time for those Labor Day travelers. According to Gas Buddy, fuel prices during Labor Day are expected to be the lowest since 2004. Experts are predicting the national price per gallon for gas to hit $2.19. This is down by nearly 40% from…

Health Officials Reminding Folks Of The Potential COVID-19 Risks During Labor Day

DULUTH, Minn. — Although celebrating the Labor Day holiday is often a way to take a break and say goodbye to summer, St. Louis County health officials are urging folks to use caution when participating in holiday gatherings. Labor day is typically a holiday where people celebrate with barbecues and other social events., but attending these types of gatherings can…

Labor Day Travelers Still Find A Way To Celebrate

DULUTH, Minn. – Labor day may feel a little different this year, but many travelers across the Northland are looking to celebrate the best way they know how. I’m going to hang out with some family and friends. Possibly do some four-wheeling,’  said Andre Jackson. Pequot Lakes resident Sarah Dawdy said “we have visitors here from central Illinois. They have…

Midday Update 9-4-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, Sept. 4, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, Sept. 4, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Morning Update 9-4-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, Sept. 4, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, Sept. 4, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

Denfeld High School Teachers Bring A New Meaning To Welcoming Students

This year, Denfeld will be welcoming nearly 300 incoming freshmen.

DULUTH, Minn. – The class of 2024 at Denfeld High School received a welcoming like no other from their teachers. It might be the key to helping incoming freshmen feel at ease as they look forward to embracing a new normal. The 2020-2021 school year is going to look a lot different for many students in Duluth. Freshmen at Denfeld…

City Unveils Artwork At Sister Cities Park in Duluth

The art is being displayed at the Sister Cities Park until the end of next month.

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth and the city’s Public Arts Commission gathered to celebrate the unveiling of new art now being displayed in the Sister Cities Park. The piece, which is entitled the “Unweaving” took nearly a year to create. It was inspired by the suppressed stories of the artist’s maternal grandmother who is of Finnish descent. It…

Passing Of Movie Star Chadwick Boseman Sparks The Importance Of Getting Checked For Colon Cancer

more than 50,000 are expected to die from the disease in 2020.

DULUTH, Minn. – Studies from the National Cancer Institute show colon cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. and is responsible for more deaths than any other cancer besides lung cancer. Health professionals are stressing the importance of getting screened to uncover the illness in its early stages. Its been nearly a week since the passing of…

Itasca County Health Officials Express Flu Shot Importance This Fall

Flu Shots Will Be Available Within One to Two Weeks at Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – As the Labor Day weekend inches closer, officials with Itasca County Public Health Department want to remind residents and visitors that their actions could have long-term effects amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Health officials say the last time they saw a huge spike in cases was two weeks after the 4th of July holiday weekend. This is…

Midday Update 9-3-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Duluth’s Best Bread Baking Up ‘Sweet Michael’s Cookies’ for Limited Time Only

State Fair Style Foods will be Severd for a Limited Time Only

DULUTH, Minn. – With the cancellation of the 2020 Minnesota State Fair, the creative minds at Duluth’s Best Bread couldn’t let Northlanders go without their favorite fair flavors before summer winds down. The locally owned company is thrilled to present the first ‘Unofficial Minnesota State Fair’ of 2020. Duluth’s Best Bread is offering hungry customers state fair style food including cheese…

Northland Newborns 9-3-20

FOX 21 and Essentia Health Team Up to Showcase Newborn Bundles of Joy Across the Northland

Every Thursday morning on FOX 21 Local News from 7 – 9 a.m., we’re teaming up with Essentia Health to showcase Northland Newborns. If you would like to submit a photo with a description of a newborn in your life, click here, or email fox21morningcrew@kqdsfox21.tv. Categories: Community, Links, News, News – Latest News, Northland Newborns Tags: Brett Scott, community, Essentia…

Morning Update 9-3-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

New Program at Superior High School Helps Students with Disabilities Find Jobs

Project Search is a national program which places young adults with disabilities in professional internships.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- As school starts for area high schools, seniors are also thinking about finding jobs after they’re done. A new program at Superior High School is helping those with disabilities do that. Superior High School is the first Northland site for Project Search. Project Search is a national program which places young adults with disabilities in internships, helping them…

Free Water Maps Get Northlanders Out on St. Louis River Water Trail

The maps detail the St. Louis River National Water Trail.

DULUTH, Minn.- Throughout the month of September, the St. Louis River Alliance (SLRA) is helping Northlanders get out on local water trails with new full color water maps. The maps detail the St. Louis River National Water Trail, a multi-use waterway with 11 loop trails for paddlers of all skill levels and other watercraft. On Wednesday the SLRA was at…

Learn Outer-Space Sword Fighting From Earth in Duluth

Seven Dragons Martial Arts teaches South Korean Sword Fighting with lightsaber-esque equipment.

DULUTH, Minn.- Wanna-be Jedis can now travel to a galaxy far far away right in Duluth, at the Sci-Fi Battle Arena class at Seven Dragons Martial Arts. “I never thought something like this would be in Duluth so that’s why I was so excited about it,” said first-time student CJ Luke. Fitness-friendly costumes are encouraged at the class, which started…

35th Annual Duluth Rotary Rose Sale Starts Sept. 3

DULUTH, Minn. – The 35th annual Rose Sale kicks off Sept. 3 to benefit the Duluth Rotary Club’s mission of improving the lives of people in our communities. You can purchase a dozen roses for $25 through Oct. 6, which will include a coupon book for local businesses. All you have to do is call 348-ROSE or log on to…

Life House In Duluth Needs Donations

The shelter provides housing for about six to ten teens at any given time.

DULUTH, Minn. – Life House in Duluth wants your help with restocking items for its shelter. They are looking for donations of bedding and sheet sets to provide to the youth they serve. The shelter provides housing for about six to ten teens at any given time. When youth spend time at the shelter, they each get their own set…

Organizations Shed Light On National Recovery Month

The month was started to bring awareness and celebrate those in recovery from substance abuse.

DULUTH, Minn. – September is National Recovery Month. Recovery is real from many people who have dealt with substance abuse and the Thunderbird Wren Halfway House and Recovery Alliance Duluth are making sure that the journey doesn’t go unrecognized. The halfway house has been a safe haven for native and indigenous people battling with their dependence on drugs and alcohol….

Artwork Brings Awareness For Stormwater and Storm Drains in Superior

There are now more than a dozen works of art at various storm drains throughout the city.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- There are hundreds of storm drains across the city of Superior. A city program is using art as a way to shed light on the significance of the infrastructure. The Storm Drain Art Program started in 2014. Through the years, local artists have created artwork to educate and bring awareness to storm drains and stormwater. The program recently…

Wisconsin Department of Justice Unveils School Safety Tipline

The program is called "Speak Up and Speak Out" and its funded by nearly $2 million in federal grants.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – The Wisconsin Department of Justice and the Office of School Safety have unveiled a new way for middle and high school students to get more safety guidance. The program is called “Speak Up and Speak Out” and its funded by nearly $2 million in federal grants. Students can access the system entirely online giving them a new…

Red Mug Coffee House Opens Coffee Truck

Owners are waiting for construction to be completed for their new location inside the library.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – After closing at their previous location, the Superior coffee shop is now housed in a coffee truck outside of the Carnegie Library on Hammond Avenue in Superior. Owners are waiting for construction to be completed for their new location inside the library. Now in their second day back in business, the coffee house continues to serve up…

Midday Update 9-2-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, September 2, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Check Your Mailbox! Bridge to Health Survey Sent to 27,000 Northland Residents

The Survey is Sent to Residents in Northeastern Minnesota and Douglas County Once Every Five Years

DULUTH, Minn. – 27,000 Northland residents will soon receive a survey in the mail from Generations Health Care Initiatives. Known as the ‘Bridge to Health Survey,’ this document helps provide vital information regarding resident’s access to healthcare throughout Northeastern Minnesota and Douglas County, Wisconsin. The comprehensive regional health status survey asks residents about health conditions, access to mental health, dental,…

Inaugural Ann Redelfs Bird Count Honors a Life Lost Too Soon

The Ann Redelfs Bird Count is Happening Sept. 1 - 10 on the Grounds of Glensheen Mansion in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn – This year’s fall bird migration comes with a special meaning for one group of avid bird counters in the Northland. Dozens will be turning their eyes to the sky with a special message for a friend who impacted so many and was taken too soon. “It’s not the best day for birding, but they will come with…

Morning Update 9-2-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, September 2, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

“Pilgrim” Tall Ship Attracts Many for Free Tours, Stories of Three-Year Journey

In three years the four-person crew made their way across the Atlantic and then through the Great Lakes to Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Pilgrim tall ship that arrived to Duluth Monday on a three-year journey from Russia was full of Northlanders Tuesday touring the ship, getting a taste of the sea. The Pilgrim was built in Duluth’s Sister City of Petrozavodsk, Russia in 2015. It made its way across the Atlantic and then through the Great Lakes to Duluth with…