Community

Cathedral School Gives Back to Hurricane Victims

Students sorted the clothing by gender and age group

SUPERIOR, Wis. – It’s been a little over three months since hurricanes devastated parts of Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico and these students were ready to step up and help. One by one these fifth graders loaded up a truck that is an example of the fruits of their labor. Nineteen students in Amber Nielsen’s class collected boxes of clothing,…

Johnson’s Bakery Preparing for Holiday Rush

Johnson's Bakery Has Been a Part of the Northland for 72 Years

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s an increase of busy bakeries in the Northland this time of year. One of those bakeries happens to be Johnson’s Bakery in West Duluth. For the past 72 years, Johnson’s has been a staple in many Northland homes. Owner Scott Johnson and his staff are busy every day mixing up and baking thousands of cookies and…

Local Organizations Join Forces For Veterans In Need

Kern and Kompany, Bong Veterans Center and the St. Louis County Veterans Service Office all helped with transportation costs.

DULUTH, Minn. -Four thousand homeless or low income veterans who may not know where their next meal is coming from are getting assistance this holiday season. Kern and Kompany and the Duluth Airshow is partnering with the Bong Veterans Center and the St. Louis County Veterans Service Office to provide Northland veterans with food. “The hope is that we’re going…

Little Northlanders Shop at Holly Jolly

The Holly Jolly Santa Shop helps Northland families put presents under the tree.

DULUTH, Minn.- Little Northlanders in Lincoln Park crossed off all the items off their holiday shopping list. The shoppers attended the 6th annual Holly Jolly Santa Shop at First Covenant Church in Duluth. With around 1,000 donated gifts, and the help of little elves, children go around.. picking out presents for their family. Coordinators said the annual event helps families in need…

Road Safety Tips for the Winter Season

Local law enforcement remind Northlanders of safe winter driving tips.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Police are offering Northlanders some safety tips when going out in wintry roads and holiday traffic. Local law enforcement want to remind Northlanders during the winter, always give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Taking it slow on the roads will help ensure safety. The snowy conditions can cause may issues. “With snowbanks, also comes pedestrian issues,”…

Proctor Public Schools Computers Hit With Virus

Proctor Public Schools has hired a company, Proven Data, and have requested expedites service to repair the files

PROCTOR, Minn, -Proctor Public School leaders were facing an unexpected situation when staff arrived to work on Monday. A virus attacked all the school computers that were left on over the weekend. Staff members tell us they believe the source of the problem came from a virtual log in. Files on Microsoft Word and pictures were locked and encrypted which…

Northland’s Snowmobile Season Is In Full Effect

Minnesota has 22,000 miles of state and grant-in-aid trails

DULUTH, Minn. -The recent cold and snow has many people excited to rev up their engines and bring out the snowmobiles. The state of Minnesota requires registration for all snowmobiles. Over at Duluth Lawn & Sport staff say they have more than 200 sleds on site. The trail oriented machines and utility sleds have been the most popular leading up to this…

Mont du Lac Offers Major Discount on Season Passes

DULUTH, Minn. – Snowfall this week has excited winter sports enthusiasts all over the Northland. Mont du Lac Resort is offering a special on season passes through the weekend. Season passes are priced at $99, which amounts to about $250 in savings. Passholder Perks include Passholder Tuesday – bring a friend for $5.00 (rental not included), 10% off cabin rental,…

Lake Superior Zoo Welcomes Newest Addition

Grip the Raven is Lake Superior Zoo's newest resident

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lake Superior Zoo welcomed in it’s newest critter on Thursday.  Grip the Raven is making the zoo his new home, after he was brought into Wildwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation after being injured. The Lake Superior Zoo took in Grip, and are taking good care of him. “He’s pretty smart, so I’m always having to think of new…

Union Gospel Mission celebrates 95 years

The organization hosted a lasagna dinner tonight, courtesy of the St. John's Catholic Church

DULUTH, Minn. – The Union Gospel Mission celebrated 95 years of helping the community on Thursday. The organization held its annual lasagna dinner at its facility in Downtown Duluth. Community members were able to have a sit down meal with their friends. “The Union Gospel Mission has been here for 95 years, serving food, and providing shelter and providing hope…

Duluth’s Largest Hospital Has Plans For Expansion

Initial planning started six months ago and Dr. Herman says this expansion will help Duluth grow

DULUTH, Minn. -While exact plans will be announced next year we do know Essentia is looking at everything from rebuilding entire structures to up and down remodels. The goal is to dramatically improve the quality of care for patients while also meeting the changing needs of the next generation of healthcare professionals. Essentia CEO Dr. David Herman tells us current facilities are outdated and uncomfortably cramped especially with modern robotics…

Therapy Dogs Offer Relief For UW-Superior Students

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Staying up late and spending hours studying for a final exam can take its toll on a college student, so UW–Superior (UWS) is offering a temporary solution. UWS is bringing students relief with therapy dogs as finals week approaches. When students needed to get a well deserved break they were greeted by therapeutic four-legged friends. One student called…

Plow Drivers Power Through To Clear the Snow

Operators plowed the shoulders in preparation for additional snow

DULUTH, Minn. – It was another busy day for plow drivers still cleaning up from this week’s snow storm. The biggest snowfall so far this season had trucks clearing 99 routes throughout the eight county district. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) crews applied a sand and salt mixture to try to keep the roads from getting too slippery. In Duluth the lake effect…

UW-Superior Receives Narcan Kits

Safety officers will administer the drug

SUPERIOR, Wis. -Nine campuses in the University of Wisconsin system will be provided with free Narcan nasal spray, this includes UW-Superior. Law enforcement and campus security will receive the spray to treat opioid overdoses. “Narcan is a first line of defense against an overdose, so it can potentially save lives here on campus by getting that immediate dose of Narcan until first responders…

Sound Serving Up Fresh Food and Live Tunes

Sound is a fine dining restaurant and an area to watch live music with friends.

DULUTH, Minn.-  A new restaurant in downtown Duluth will be giving Northlanders a taste of our unsalted sea. The Sound is bringing sustainable seafood to the table. On-goers can enjoy a raw bar to steak. The restaurant has a fine dining section and a place for live music. “What we’re going to try to do is bring phenomenal food and phenomenal music,”…

Liberace and Liza Minnelli Christmas Show to be Performed in Duluth

"A Liberace & Liza Christmas"

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend two musical legends can be seen in Duluth. “A Liberace & Liza Christmas” will be performed at The Underground located at 506 West Michigan Street. David Saffert, who is portraying Liberace, and Jillian Snow Harris, who is portraying Liza Minnelli, created the production together last year. They both describe the variety show as something that…

Skate with Santa at the Heritage Sports Center

The event was full of kids activities to give families something fun to do durring the holiday season.

DULUTH, Minn. – It was a winter celebration over at the Heritage Sports Center in Duluth. Wednesday as the annual Skate with Santa event. It included all kinds of kids activities, as well as some ice skating. It’s put on as a way to help families have fun during the holidays, without having to worry about their pocketbook. “There’s not…

Community makes wreaths to support Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center

The money raised will go to fund educational programs at the center

DULUTH,Minn. – Folks were able to stop by the Glensheen Mansion for a night of wreath making on Wednesday. The event was a fundraiser for the Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center. Families paid $20 for each wreath, and that money will be used to fund educational programs at Boulder Lake. “We really want to spread the word, and let people…

Snow Showers Hit the Northland

Some places had more than six inches of snow.

DULUTH, Minn. -For those who have been waiting for the winter season to arrive this weather is a perfect day to get out and enjoy yourselves. Many Northlanders have been waiting out a dry spell to finally get out and have some outdoor fun in the white stuff. A few places in the Northland had multiple inches of snowfall. So for the first time all season there…

Northland Family Starts Tree Stand in West Duluth

Kimberly and Darren Powell Have Always Wanted to Start Emmanuel Evergreens, Now It's a Dream Come True

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’re still looking for the perfect Christmas tree to bring home to your living room, one family in the Northland is looking to help. Kimberly and Darren Powell along with their children have chosen to start up a Christmas tree stand this year. Kimberly says she wants families to have the picture perfect experience when picking…

Dealing With Dementia During the Holidays

Experts told FOX 21 it's important for businesses and families to be aware and helpful.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Gathering with family during the holidays is exciting but can be hectic for those suffering with dementia. Experts told FOX 21 make sure your festive gathering is a safe space. Ensure that there is plenty of lighting and be supportive. “Being overwhelmed can cause them to have more issues, maybe being overwhelmed or frustrated when trying to remember…

Winners of Holiday Storefront Contest Announced

The winners of the 2017 Storefront Window and Lighting Display Contest have been announced.

DULUTH, Minn.- Northlanders the wait is over, the winners of the festive competition for best store front decoration in downtown Duluth have been announced. Twenty four participated but Kitchee Gammi Design Company and Electric Fetus won most original. PS Rudie and Salon Capelli took the prize for most traditional storefront. The vote of the people went to Duluth Trading Company. “We…

UMD Athletic Director Signs Contract Extension

Josh Berlo (University of Minnesota Duluth) DULUTH, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Duluth and Athletic Director Josh Berlo, have agreed to a two-year contract extension. The extension would put his contract that he signed in November 2015 through May 1, 2023. “Josh is a tireless advocate for student athletes. I am confident in the direction and leadership Josh has…

Holiday Gift Ideas for Technology Lovers

Verizon Wireless Gift Guide

DULUTH, Minn. – Christmas is just about two weeks away, so several people are out and about getting their Christmas shopping done. Verizon Wireless Solutions Specialist Rachel Agurkis stopped by FOX 21 to give gift ideas. Bamboo Stylus: Support navigating phone, tablet, iPad, etc. Global Payments Mobile Pay: Plugs into a phone to take credit cards on the go. Google…

Lake Superior Zoo to Host ‘Twas The Night Before Zoo-mas’

The Holiday Event is Happening Saturday, December 16 from 12:00 - 3:00p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – Happening Saturday, December 16 from 12:00 – 3:00p.m at the Lake Superior Zoo, guests will have the chance to take pictures with Santa and the Grinch while enjoying story time in Santa’s Workshop and so much more. Children can write letters to Santa and go on a Candy Cane Hunt. Animals will be available in the ‘North…

Steps to Protect Elderly from Fraud

According to the Investor Protection Trust nearly one out of every five elderly American is the victim of fraud.

DULUTH, Minn.- Elderly Americans the ages 65 and up are estimated to be frauded out of nearly three billion dollars each year. To prevent this from happening to Northlanders, Hang Up On Fraud is the key message, the Minnesota Commerce Department wants Northlanders to remember. With families gathering for the holidays we tend to see our loved ones more giving…

Great Outdoors: Visit Cook County, Lutsen Mountains

Visit Cook County Executive Director Linda Jurek Explains Why Now is Such a Vital Time to Venture North

COOK COUNTY, Minn. – Staff at Lutsen Mountains are busy preparing for a non-stop holiday season of fun right now. From maintenance on the mountains, to answering phones at Caribou Highlands Lodge and Resort, it’s all hands on deck before thousands ring in the new year. Officials with Caribou Highlands say Christmas and New Year’s is a popular time for…

Glass Christmas Tree Ornaments Blown in Superior

Shannon's Stained Glassery on Tower Avenue Offered the Class

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Blown glass Christmas tree ornaments were being made on Tuesday night in Superior. The class was at Shannon’s Stained Glassery on Tower Avenue in South Superior. It gave people the chance to design and blow their very own ornaments. Classes happen often at Shannon’s that teach the community how to make various creations. “You get to bring…

‘Choralaires’ from Duluth East Perform Downtown

DULUTH, Minn. — The songs of Christmas fill the atrium at the Holiday Center in downtown Duluth. These carolers are the Choralaires – a group of students from Duluth East High School. The singers have been practicing their holiday show for more than a month. “I’ve always enjoyed Christmas music.  It’s like – I don’t know – it’s just a…

Duluth Police Chief Releases Statement Regarding Protective Gear

This comes after concerned citizens spoke out at last night's city council meeting.

DULUTH, Minn.-  The Duluth Police Chief is pulling back on his plans to purchase $83,000 worth of riot gear. This comes after concerned citizens spoke out at last night’s city council meeting against the protective gear. Chief Mike Tusken heard those concerns has had a change in heart releasing the following statement. “I want to write to you today in…

Future of Duluth Municipal Golf Courses Unknown

The city says these challenges have no obvious or easy answers.

DULUTH, Minn.- The city of Duluth is questioning the future of the two municipal golf courses. The program is facing $ 2.2 million of debt and $12.7 million of deferred maintenance. The city says these challenges have no obvious or easy answers. Right now it is unsure if Duluth can support two 27 hole courses. “We in Duluth are facing…

District 709 Faces $1M in Projected Cuts

The District's top priority is protecting and preserving what happens in the classrooms.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth School District is facing more than one million dollars in projected budget cuts. The district is currently $400,ooo in the red. District officials tell us they only have around $100,000 left in reserve, which an only be used for specific operational needs. The district’s chief financial officer Doug Hasler told FOX21 the district is doing everything…

Cook County Board Approves 2018 Budget

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – The Cook County Board of Commissioner’s approved the 2018 county Budget Tuesday. The Board voted 3 to 2 to approve the budget that was presented by the Budget Committee with a levy of $9,236,751, a 17.5 percent increase from 2017. A homeowner with a $100,000 home would see roughly $60 extra a year in property taxes….

Bellisio’s Wine Dinner Features Croatian Wines

"The Best of Bellisio's Featuring Korta Katarina Vineyards"

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend a popular event at Bellisio’s Italian Restaurant in Duluth is featuring Italian food and Croatian wine. The Best of Bellisio’s Featuring Korta Katarina Vineyards is Sunday, December 17 from 6-9 p.m. The Owners of Korta Katarina Vineyards, Penny and Lee Anderson, will be sharing their experiences in the wine industry. The dinner includes a four-course…

Duluth Fire Department Shops for Northland Kids

The Duluth Fire Department filled carts to spread holiday cheer in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn.-  The Duluth Fire Department and Shopko have been partnering up since 2006 to check off a Christmas list for Northland kids in need. The Duluth Fire Department said doing their part to make sure less fortunate families have a happy holiday, brings them joy. This year the department was awarded $1,000 grant from Shopko. Funds are raised all year…

Superior High School Students Hold Discussion About Concussions

Kaleb Ullan Got Two Concussions Playing Hockey Last Year and Wanted to Teach Facts to the Community

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Over the last few years, we’ve all heard a lot about the effects concussions can have on athletes. Two Superior High School students looked into the information and on Monday, they presented a community discussion about concussions. Kaleb Ullan was diagnosed with two concussions while playing hockey last season. This year, he and his friend Blake Hanson…

Duluthians Experience African American Culture at “Black Is”

Event Is The Latest "Taste of Duluth" Program at Zeitgeist

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluthians had a special chance to experience African American culture on Monday night at this month’s “Taste of Duluth” program at Zeitgeist. Monday’s event was called “Black Is.” Guests watched the film “I Am Not Your Negro” and enjoyed cultural food made with Duluth NAACP President Stephan Witherspoon’s family recipe. “We have oven baked mac and cheese,…

Community Action Duluth Looking for Tax Preparation Volunteers

Volunteers Will Be Trained Before Tax Prep Begins

DULUTH, Minn. – Community Action Duluth is looking for volunteers to help prepare returns this tax season. Volunteers are from all walks of life and can be any age from college students to retirees. Training will be provided to everyone. The organization will begin preparing taxes on January 27th. They say last year’s volunteers made a big difference in the…

Fond Du Luth Casino Helping Keep Northlanders Warm

The Fond Du Luth Casino is close to their Salvation Army donation goal.

DULUTH, Minn.- Nearly 8,000 pairs of socks will keep Northlanders warm, thanks to the Fond Du Luth Casino. The casino is still gathering socks for the Salvation Army to reach their 10,000 pair goal. Last year the goal was exceeded with 12,000 pairs donated. On Monday a check was presented to help support other various projects the Salvation Army has…

Bob’s Bike Drive Still Going Strong

Still Accepting Donations for Bike Drive

DULUTH, Minn.-Bob’s annual Bike Drive is winding down in the Northland, but they still need your help. The fundraiser gives bikes to needy kids around the holidays, but they still need about $3,000 to pay for the 400 hundred bikes and helmets they are handing out through the Salvation Army. No matter the case, the event speaks volumes about the…

On Sale Now, ‘The Copper Hen Cookbook’

Duluth's Best Bread Co-Owner Robert Lillegard Has Released His Third Cookbook, 'The Copper Hen'

DULUTH, Minn. – Cooking can be difficult for many of us, whether it be finding certain ingredients or the time to perfect the best dishes, but one Duluthian is looking to eliminate the hesitation. Co-owner of Duluth’s Best Bread, Robert Lillegard first dabbled in cookbook writing when he was asked to write the first cookbook for The Duluth Grill. Since then,…

Coffee Conversation: Zenith Bookstore Offers Icelandic Holiday Tradition

In This Week's Coffee Conversation, Zenith Bookstore Owner Angel Dobrow Chats About the Jolabokafloo, or "Yule Book Flood"

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Midwest Roasters Coffee Conversation, Angel Dobrow, Owner of Zenith Bookstore, stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about their ongoing holiday event. The Icelandic tradition is traditionally called Jolabokafloo. The Zenith Bookstore in Duluth is bringing it to you by pairing books with chocolate. It’s a tradition done before the holidays and it’s…

Cloquet Community Band Performs Classics

Director Carol Risdon's husband, Gene, is a part of the band and he plays the trombone.

CLOQUET, Minn. – For 16 years the Cloquet Community Band has performed its Annual Christmas Concert. It happens at the Cloquet Presbyterian Church. Guests were treated to a live performance of holiday classics. The 22 member band is made up of volunteers and retirees. This year’s band is the largest one they’ve had. “We all donate our time to the…

The Nutcracker Ends Its Season Run In Duluth

In March 2018 the Minnesota Ballet will perform Swan Lake

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Ballet performed The Nutcracker for the final time in Duluth this season at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC). The Nutcracker is quite popular. More than 1,600 people showed up for Saturday’s performance. Kristen O’Bey saw The Nutcracker years ago but decided to bring her six-year-old daughter along. Her daughter just started taking ballet and…

Zenith Bookstore Bringing You An Icelandic Holiday Experience

Different authors will also stop by for book signings during this time

DULUTH, Minn. – You don’t have to travel thousands of miles to experience an Icelandic Christmas custom. The Zenith Bookstore in Duluth is bringing it to you by pairing books with chocolate. It’s a tradition done before the holidays and it’s also known as Yule Book Flood, where you gift books and the sweet treat. When you buy a book…

Open House Shines Spotlight On Sami Culture

Sami American Culture has a 25 year history

DULUTH, Minn. – The Sami American Community consists of descendants from the indigenous people in northern Sweden, Norway, Finland and a bit of Russia. Duluth is home to the only Sami Cultural Center in North America. We’re told in northern Minnesota there’s a lot of Sami ancestry. at the Sami cultural center they want you to learn about the history…

Final Day for Superior’s Christmas Market

The market is located at the Community Garden of Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Tonight concludes the Superior Christmas Market that’s based on European holiday traditions. At the eighth annual market guests could gather around the bonfire, meet friends, shop, and get food and drinks. But the recent cold weather affected the turnout today. “This week has been a little slower. Last Saturday it was phenomenal,” said Organizer Steve McDonald. “We had a lot…

Denfeld High School Students Sing the Sounds of Christmas

Maroon 16 was dressed in costumes from the University of Minnesota Duluth to look the part

DULUTH, Minn. -People in Gary New Duluth were in the holiday spirit at the Second Annual Sounds of Christmas. Students from Denfeld High School provided the music. The group calls themselves “Maroon 16.” The performance was held at the Gary New Duluth Rec Center, which has become a major gathering place in the community. “It’s important to have events like this to…

UWS Ends Week of Giving With Toy Drive

New this year for the Jackets Giving Back was a visit to the Lighthouse of Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – It’s the week of giving at the University of Wisconsin–Superior (UWS) and student athletes are doing their part to make a difference. After ringing bells for the Salvation Army and caroling through the neighborhoods of Superior for can goods the Yellowjackets held a toy drive. the week of giving at UWS is dedicated to community service and…

Lights go on for another year at Marcia Hales’ house

Thanks to the help of the neighborhood, Hales' lights shine for yet another season

DULUTH, Minn. – After almost not happening this year, the lights are lit and the public is invited to come check out Marcia Hales’ lights display. Marcia Hales loved looking at Christmas lights as a kid, and now her light display on park point has been a tradition for many families for several years. After announcing that last year might…