Community

Northlanders Prepare for Upcoming Caucus

The training is put on completely by volunteers.

DULUTH, Minn.- Wednesday night training was held at the Duluth Labor Temple in preparation for caucuses starting Tuesday Feb. 5th. The Northlanders undergoing training learn how to host their precinct caucus. Training goes through how to register people and how to except resolutions that could be passed on to the state. The training is ran completely by volunteers. “All these…

New Housing Option for AmeriCorps Members

The home will be located at 2114 W 3rd Street

DULUTH, Minn. – AmeriCorps members spend hours volunteering and a lot of time helping others. Now it’s their turn to be rewarded. Several community partners are rallying behind AmeriCorps to provide housing for some of their members. AmeriCoprs members often face challenges when it comes to housing. Some of them make less than $12,000 a year. “The project is going…

NorShor Theatre Officially Opens

Thursday Night is the Historic Duluth Theatre's First Performance of Mama Mia

DULUTH, Minn. – The NorShor Theatre officially opened Wednesday. The velvet rope was unhooked, ushering in a new era for the historic art-deco theatre. The restoration process has taken several years including nineteen months of renovations. “This was kind of an old, tired, dilapidated icon in our downtown and to have the ability to come in and restore it to…

St. Luke’s Offers eCare Program for All

Online Proram Aims to Treat Patients Conveniently

DULUTH, Minn. – With cold and flu season well underway, it can be helpful to get a diagnosis online so you can start treating your illness quickly. St. Luke’s has started an eCare program. This is part of St. Luke’s goal to provide convenient access to care. Users can enter their symptoms into the online program and a St. Luke’s…

Mind Over Matter with Team Freking

Blake Freking and His Team Train Year-Round to Mush in the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, and Many Other Races

DULUTH, Minn. – As mushers make their final trek to the finish line Wednesday morning, the athletes leading the team will likely enjoy a bit of rest and relaxation in the coming days. However, it won’t last for long as many of the teams will soon embark on their next adventure. “Their first year of mushing is really just about…

First Musher Crosses Beargrease Finish Line

Ryan Redington Wins 34th Annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon

DULUTH, Minn. – The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon has a winner. Ryan Redington crossed the finish line at 5:00 a.m. to win the 34th running of the race. Ryan Anderson came in second place crossing the finish line just after 7:45 a.m. The race wraps up at Billy’s Bar after more than two days of competition. We have live…

Video Vision in West Duluth Closing

Video Vision Superior Remains Open

DULUTH, Minn. – One of the last video rental stores in the region is closing its doors for good this week. Video Vision opened thirty-five years ago and once had six locations across the Twin Ports. Their Superior store remains open but as their Spirit Valley location closes this week, so does a once-successful industry in Duluth. “We were the…

Community Celebrates Northland Olympic Curlers

The athletes will officially leave in two days for their final training.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Northland curlers are being sent off to compete for team U.S.A in South Korea for the winter Olympics. The Duluth Curling Club put together a spaghetti dinner to help raise money for the athletes’ families. The curlers say they’re going to face some tough match–ups at the Olympics. “My big thing is I just want to walk away…

Duluth’s ‘Cold Front February’ Kicks Off Thursday

Event Encourages Duluthians to Enjoy Winter Activities

DULUTH, Minn. – The first-ever Cold Front February is coming to Duluth later this week. The event kicks off with a festival in Canal Park this Thursday through Sunday. The festival has vendors and entertainment plus all kinds of outdoor activities like a sliding hill and ice rink to help Duluthians get out and enjoy winter. “It doesn’t have to be…

Classic Children’s Tale to be Performed on UMD Stage

"Charlotte's Web" Opens Thursday

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s a story many know from childhood, and now it’s coming to a stage in Duluth. Charlotte’s Web is being performed by students at the University of Minnesota – Duluth. The children’s tale highlights friendship and sacrifice. The play is based on the book by E.B. White. Show Dates: Feb 1-3 & 8-10 at  6:30 p.m. Feb…

Twin Ports History to be Highlighted Through “Zenith City on Tap”

Northland Uncovered: Duluth and Superior History

DULUTH, Minn. – Each month, officials at Glensheen Mansion plan community events at the historic home. Coming up in February, they’re featuring the stories that built the Twin Ports. Zenith City on Tap is a history series by Duluth author Tony Dierckins. Dierckins is the publisher of Duluth’s Zenith City Press. These talks will be happening every Wednesday in February….

MnDot Considers “Can of Worm” Intersection Updates

The can of worms intersection is a visibility concern.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth’s ‘can of worms’ or what the Minnesota Department of Transportation formally calls the “Twin Ports Interchange Project” is slowing sliding along. MnDot is currently narrowing down the preferred alternatives to make the “can of worms” intersection a safer place for drivers traveling through the Twin Ports. Monday night transportation officials discussed advancing the design process and taking…

One Book Northland Honors Local Author

The book club aims to celebrate reading books accessible to everyone in the region.

DULUTH, Minn.-  For the 17th year libraries around the region are joining together celebrating the One Book Northland project. This month’s chosen book is written by local author Katharine Johnson titled The Wind and The Drum. Officials are excited to celebrate a book from the community. “Even better in a year like this when we can find a local tie…

Superior Sister City Celebrates 20th Year

Students are fundraising to make a trip to the Sister City

SUPERIOR, Wis.-  The Superior Sister City is celebrating a 20 year relationship with Ami Machi, Japan. Monday night kids in the Superior School District are getting a taste of another culture. The Japanese New Year was honored Monday night. Families tasted exotic foods. learned origami, and dress up in kimonos. “Just to be a kid from this area and have the…

Couture Floral Design in Duluth’s Woodland Neighborhood

Saffron and Grey is Located at 2303 Woodland Avenue in Duluth, Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. – When you think of flowers, a special occasion probably comes to mind. Technology has since changed the way many of us order flowers, as it’s now easier than ever to go online, place an order and have it delivered. However, owners of one flower shop in Duluth are looking to keep as many orders as they can,…

Beargrease Teams Rest Before Continuing Journey

Team Handlers Prepare Mushers and Dogs for the Next 200 Miles

GRAND PORTAGE, Minn. – The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is about halfway done. Teams rested in Grand Portage before the second leg of their journey. As mushers and dogs took a well deserved eight hour rest in Grand Portage, the team handlers were at work preparing the teams for another two hundred miles of racing. While the dogs pull…

Beargrease Mid Distance Racers Cross Finish Line

Martha Schouweiler Wins Race for Fourth Straight Year

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – It’s a night of celebration for the winners of the Beargrease mid-distance race who crossed the finish line Monday morning. Martha Schouweiler won the mid-distance race for the fourth consecutive year. Last year, her team completed the first ever three-peat and they extended that record Monday. Shouweiler says a lot goes in to building a champion…

Winter Market is Best Time to Buy and Sell Homes

DULUTH, Minn. – During these cold winter days heading out to look at homes isn’t the ideal way to spend time. However, winter is actually just the time to purchase a new home. According to real estate experts, this is the best time to make the purchase. “They’re motivated, they’re looking for a smooth, fast and easy transaction,” said Amy…

After Years of Work, Duluth’s NorShor Theatre Reopens This Week

Coffee Conversation: Mamma Mia! Kicks of NorShor Entertainment

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s a big week for the city of Duluth as the highly-anticipated opening of The NorShor Theatre is taking place this week. After several years of work to make this a reality, performers will once again be on the stage. “It’s incredibly exciting, it’s stressful, it’s such a momentous moment. There’s so much leading up to this…

Rep. Jen Schultz kicks off re-election campaign

Schultz is seeking a third term as the Representative for State House District 7A

DULUTH, Minn. – DFL Rep. Jen Schultz has announced her candidacy for a third term for State House District 7A. Schultz kicked off her campaign on Sunday at Blacklist Artisan Ales in Duluth. Schultz is looking to address issues with Minnesota healthcare, tax reform, and affordable education. “I’ve built really good relationships on both sides if the isle,” Schultz said….

Inside Look at the John Beargrease Marathon Starting Line

Every musher has a different story behind their passion to race.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.-  Mushers heading out for the John Beargrease marathon say dog racing is unlike any sport. Winter along the Northshore can create the ideal conditions or make for a challenging journey. “We go out there and what happens, happens. You just kind of go with the flow, that’s what this sport is,” first time Beargrease musher Liza Dietzen…

Carrying Trail Mail in the Beargrease Marathon

The trail mail is sent in from people around the world.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.– While on the trail mushers are looking after more than just their sled team, each racer is carrying up to a dozen pieces of trial mail. Racing with the letters is another way to honor John Beargrease and his route delivering mail. The Two Harbors Postal Service, volunteers helping run the event every year. Workers say they’re…

Fly Fishing Film Tour makes a stop in the Northland

The film tour is a celebration of all things fishing

DULUTH, Minn. – The Fly Fishing Film Tour made its way to Duluth on Sunday, hosted by the Arrowhead Fly Fishers and Gitchee Gumme Trout Unlimited organizations. The tour is a celebration of all things fly fishing. “It’s an opportunity for people to come out and learn about the sport, and see some really great stories about how people fish,…

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker Visits Superior

Gov. Walker addressed health care and sales tax rebate.

SUPERIOR, Wis.-  Governor walker traveled to the Northland Saturday meeting with the Republican Party of Douglas County. The Republican Party of Douglas County held its annual Lincoln Day dinner in Superior. Governor Walker spoke to on-goers addressing issues, including what he hopes for the future of healthcare. “Affirms that preexisting conditions will be covered in the State of Wisconsin,” Gov….

Inside the John Beargrease Opening Ceremony

The ceremony brings together everyone involved in the marathon, one last time before the race.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- Preparations for the annual John Beargrease Sled Dog marathon took place in Two Harbors Saturday. Saturday night’s opening ceremony sheds light on how many volunteers, sponsors, and participants it takes to make this tradition going for years to come. “Let people know that they’re involved in this race and if you ever sit down and listen to…

New science building taking shape at UMD

An engineer on the project is also a UMD alum

DULUTH, Minn. – Construction on the new science building at UMD is moving along. FOX 21 got a look inside the new facility on Friday. The building features four floors with both laboratories and classrooms together in one place. UMD’s Swenson College of Science and Engineering alum Laura Hart is an engineer on the project. “It’s really cool that I…

New Police Recruits Take Part In Communication Relations Training

There are 154 sworn in officers on the Duluth Police Department.

DULUTH, Minn. – For law enforcement officers having the right training is a part of the job. Fifteen of Duluth’s newly recruited police officers are learning what it takes to build stronger relationships within the community thanks to some unique lessons. These officers are part of a type of training that goes beyond the squad car and flashing lights and focuses on communication….

Wood Stove Exchange Program Helps Protect the Environment

More than 50 percent of the heating appliances used for Project Stove Swap are manufactured in Minnesota.

DULUTH, Minn. – More and more people are exchanging their old wood stoves for newer ones that also protect the environment. Project Stove Swap started a year ago and gives homeowners incentives for upgrading their wood stoves. Energy Plus in Duluth  has a lot of customers coming in searching for a wood stove. “We’re releasing much less carbon than we…

Lake Superior Ice Festival Kicks Off

The festival will also have food vendors and ice sculptures.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – You can expect thousands to be on Barker’s Island in Superior for the Lake Superior Ice Festival. It’s day one and the atmosphere is described as electric. The snow slide will be open and pond hockey will kick off tonight. When you pick a date six months in advance you never know what the weather will be…

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland Receive “Exergaming” Kits

Seventy-five members received the kits now and the remaining 75 will receive them at a later date.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland are taking exercise and gaming to the next level. These kids are some of the first in the state to receive game kits that encourage physical activity. The kit includes a NERF ball and energy tracker. It’s called “exergaming.” “The kids get to track their points for how much…

Circuit Training with Fitness Edge North

Fitness Edge North is Located in Hermantown at 5237 Miller Trunk Highway

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – In this week’s Active Adventures, FOX 21 Meteorologist William Seay stopped by Fitness Edge North in Hermantown to give circuit training a try. Fitness Edge North has been in business for the past 12 years. Circuit training at the facility helps customers become more physically fit through combining flexibility, balance and core strength. Click here for more information on…

Sled Dogs, Beer, Food and Fun to Kick Off Beargrease 2018

The First Beer-grease Event is Happening Friday, January 26 at Glensheen Mansion

DULUTH, Minn. – Happening tonight, the Glensheen Mansion will play host the first ever Beer-grease event. In order to kick-off race weekend, the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is teaming up with Canal Park Brewing and Glensheen Mansion. Race officials, mushers, Beargrease Board Members and Sponsors will be on site to celebrate all things Beargrease. Canal Park Brewing has brewed…

Humane Society of Douglas County Hosts Raffle Fundraiser

The Drawing will End on April 8, 2018 at the Dreamland Supper Club

SUPERIOR, Wisc.  – The Humane Society of Douglas County is selling raffle tickets for a 2018 Textron Off-Road Wildcat ATV, sponsored by MAC Sport and Marine. The Shelter expects this to be one of their larger fundraisers of the year. Tickets are $20. Money raised will help to benefit over 1,000 animals, finding them a forever home. The drawing will…

Plans Underway for New Unique Hotel

Officials say the hotel aims to attract millennials to Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.– New details are being revealed for a new hotel like no other planned for Duluth’s central entrance. The hotel is called “Tru by Hilton” it’s aimed at giving young professionals, a fun affordable place to stay.  The rooms will cost $100 a night and be smaller than an average hotel room. City officials say although there are many hotels, none…

Hundreds Partake in Northland Figure Skating Competition

The event is free and open to the public all weekend.

DULUTH, Minn.- This weekend figure skaters are hitting the ice for the 38th annual Northland Figure Skating Competition. The Duluth Figure Skating Club puts on the competition all weekend at AMS Oil Arena and the DECC. The skaters range from little ones to adults. Club coach Heather Seyfer has been apart of the club for 35 years; starting as a competitor, now…

Aerial Lift Bridge Undergoing Deck Replacement

The center sections of the bridge can last for several more years before they'll have to be replaced.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s been more than 60 years since the deck on the Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth was last replaced. Workers have started the process of replacing it again. Since the shipping season is now over this deck replacement won’t affect marine traffic, but those using the bridge will experience some delays for a while. Workers are replacing…

DECC’s Newest Executive Director Shares Vision For the Future

Fuse Duluth within the Chamber went on a tour to see the sustainable practices at the DECC.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center’s (DECC) newest executive director is only four months into her role, but is already looking toward the future. Chelly Townsend says she wants to see the DECC grow as a sustainable building for everyone in the Northland. The goal is do that by continuing to follow sustainable practices. “The basic recycling, reducing and…

Proctor Hockey Arena Set To Open This Summer

The arena will be located on Kirkus Street.

PROCTOR, Minn. – This July Proctor will have a brand new hockey arena and event center. The decking is finished and the final layers of the roof are going up. Once that’s done the heating work comes next. The arena will double as a community center, that’ll have a walking track, enough room to seat 1,200 people and a community…

Superior YMCA Opens Doors During Sub-Zero Temps

"Warming center helps meet the needs of community"

Superior, Wis. – The Superior Douglas County Family YMCA now offers their facility as a warming center. The Y will be open for use as a warming station from 6am-noon on days the weather dips below 0° or the wind chill is below -25° degrees. The lobby will be available to the public, as will refreshments such as coffee, tea,…

Damiano Center Connecting Those In Need With Free Resources

Lunch was provided and about 500 people showed up over the course of the day.

DULUTH, Minn. -The Damiano Center in Duluth offered a one stop shop to help people in need. Several service providers were on hand to provide free help for homeless or low income folks who stopped by. Having these resources under one roof helps make it easier for people to get to these offices. Haircuts, foot care and winter clothing items…

Ice Racing to Bring Ice to Life at Annual Ice Festival

MIRA Featured at Lake Superior Ice Festival

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This weekend the ice will come alive on Barker’s Island in Superior as the Midwest Ice Racing Association riders compete. This is part of the Lake Superior Ice Festival on Saturday, January 27 from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. A-Class Rider, Brock Zychowski, stopped by FOX 21 this morning. Zychowski says the sport gives an adrenaline rush…

Vegetable Risotto with Catering By Bellisio’s

Cooking Connection: Vegetable Risotto

DULUTH, Minn. – During the winter months, a savory dish is always a great dinner choice. Bellisio’s in Canal Park offers many meals that fit that bill. For this week’s Cooking Connection, the Executive Chef of Catering By Bellisio’s, Eric Denney, showed FOX 21’s William Seay how to make a vegetable risotto. VEGETABLE RISOTTO Dice onion Smash and mince garlic…

UMD College Republicans Host Fundraiser

The group will be traveling to Washington D.C.

DULUTH, Minn.- The University of Minnesota Duluth’s College Republicans held a fundraiser at Glensheen Mansion. The UMD College Republicans met with gubernatorial candidates at the event is a fundraiser. The group is attending the CPAC in Washington D.C. UMD College Republicans President Kynze Lundeen says organizing the event is an honor. “It means a lot to me to have my CR’s…

Duluth Public Library Rewarding Reading

The library is also giving away prizes if you attend events.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Public Library is giving away prizes to promote reading. Now until February 24th if you attend a class held at the library, you could win a prize. Wednesday the library held a Metal Tool Workshop partnering up with the Duluth Art Institute. The workshop inspired people to tap into their creative side, making raised art with tin foil…

Champ, UMD Hockey Players Visit Children’s Hospital

Each Kid Got a "Champ" Bobblehead Gift

DULUTH, Minn. – Kids in the Essentia Health Children’s Hospital got some special visitors today. UMD mascot Champ and some of the UMD Men’s Hockey players stopped in kids’ hospital rooms, talking with them and keeping them company for a little while. “It’s refreshing because you see the same nurses, same people every day,” said Bailey Eich, a cancer patient…

Public Comments on Barker’s Island Plans

The city is hoping for your input to restore the beach.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The city of superior focused in on the future restoration of Barker’s Island Beach during a public meeting. The city held the public meeting to share preliminary engineering concepts for the beach’s future. The beach is a major part of the overall success of Barker’s Island. Wednesday night the Parks Rec and Forestry Department presented drawings of the proposed…