Community

Northland State Employees Take Tribal Relations Training

In the future UMD wants to visit Red Lake and Grand Portage for more training.

Two thousand Northland employees are better equipped to handle tribal relations after taking a special training course. In just a day and a half state employees from more than 20 agencies learned about building better relationships with Native Americans and the tribal government. The training is a collaboration between the University of Minnesota Duluth Continuing Education, Department of American Indian…

Personal Trainer Helps Turn Resolutions into Reality

Active Adventures: Duluth YMCA Personal Training

DULUTH, Minn. – Many Northlanders have made a New Year’s Resolution to get fit in 2018. The FOX 21 morning crew joined Director of Healthy Living Alisha Bradley for a personal training session. Bradley says it’s important to start small and ease yourself into a workout routine if it’s been away since you hit the gym. She took FOX 21’s…

Twin Ports Honor MLK

A mayoral reception in Duluth remembers Martin Luther King Jr's message.

DULUTH, Minn.-Thursday night the Twin Ports remember Martin Luther King Junior during a mayoral reception. This year’s moto is “The Birth of a New Nation” which came from a speech MLK gave in 1957. “He has the spirit of nonviolence and just excepting everybody for their own beliefs and we’re coming together as a community,” co chair MLK planning committee Salaam…

Celebrating a Dance for All Ages

The group aims to bring together all ages of the community for a celebration

DULUTH, Minn.- Northlanders from ages 1 to 101 all have a signature or favorite dance move. The Inter-Generational Dance Hall aims to have all ages move to the music together. Thursday KAIROS Alive International Dance Hall Event took over the second floor of the Great Lakes Aquarium. The event aims to bring together professional artists and on–goers with the hopes everyone…

Local Historical Center Receives Two Grants

The grants will help upgrade the center and educational programs.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior has received two grants totaling $30,000. The first grant of $20,000 is from a private foundation, that money will help update the 15 year old audio and visual equipment at the center. The center creates videos that help tell the stories of veterans in the Northland. The other grant…

First Witness Child Advocacy Center Announces New Executive Director

DULUTH, Minn.- First Witness Child Advocacy Center is a non–profit providing services for child in abusive situations. The First Witness Board of Directors has now announced a new executive director, Tracie Clanaugh. Clanaugh has experience in non–profit leadership previously serving as the executive director of the YMCA community services branch. She will now be replacing Beth Olson. Olson served as…

Ice Fishing Contest Supports Duluth Neighborhood

2nd Annual Ice Fishing Contest

DULUTH, Minn. – One local group is continually working to support its neighborhood in Duluth. The Gary New Duluth Community Club is taking advantage of the winter weather for an annual fundraiser this weekend. The second Ice Fishing Contest and Raffle is taking place on Saturday,  January 13. Teams of four are welcome to join the contest. Registration will be…

Recent Snowfall Expected to Provide Economic Benefits on Iron Range

Hibbing Received Roughly Seven Inches of Snow Thursday, Prompting Winter Enthusiasts to Invest in the Local Economy

HIBBING, Minn. – The Hibbing Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled with Thursday’s big snowfall on the Iron Range. The Chamber tells FOX 21, so far it’s been a slow start to the winter season. With a lack of snow before Thursday and bitter cold temperatures, staff say it keeps visitors and locals from enjoying local ski resorts and snowmobile…

Snow Storm Doesn’t Stop The DTA

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Public Transportation was not effected by Thursday’s weather. Northlanders can count on the everyday routes even in heavy snowfall. Officials say driving the 30,000 pound bus equipped with snow tires is just like any day on the job for drivers. “Obviously some operators are going to be more experienced in these conditions than others and often…

Superior School District Wants Your Input In Choosing Next Superintendent

The survey opened on Jan. 8.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Superior School District is seeking a new district administrator and needs your help. The public is asked to participate in a community survey to help choose the next superintendent. Janna Stevens, the current superintendent, is retiring on June 30. The survey closes next Friday on Jan. 19. It asks what qualities people think are important for…

Dietitian: Eating “SMART” Helps New Year’s Resolutions

Cooking Connection: 2018 Healthy Eating

DULUTH, Minn. – In a new year, many Northlanders are trying to better themselves with a list of resolutions. One of the most common resolutions is to eat better. Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator Debra Anderson with Essentia Health visited FOX 21 to share some knowledge. Anderson recommends following a SMART diet because oftentimes people try to change too many…

Veteran DJ and Officiant Hosts “Grooms Only Workshop” at Duluth Wedding Show

Wedding Show Celebrates 30th Anniversary

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Wedding Show is taking place this weekend, but it’s not just a day for the brides. Night Magic Productions is making sure the grooms feel included as well. In fact, according to Night Magic Productions Owner Dean Carlson, the company is ensuring the grooms get involved in the wedding planning process. Carlson is hosting the…

Leah Phifer Minnesota’s 8th Congressional Candidate visits Northlanders

 Leah Phifer will be holding more open meetings with the public.

DULUTH, Minn.- Leah Phifer is a candidate for Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District and took a visit to the Northland on Wednesday. Phifer is running against Rick Nolan, in Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District. She previously worked for the FBI and homeland security for 10 years. On Wednesday she spoke with locals at Perk Place in Duluth explaining the importance of national security,…

Maintaining City Sidewalks in the Winter

The responsibility is on homeowners and business owners to keep the sidewalks clear.

DULUTH, Minn.- With snow hitting some areas hard,means its time to bust out the shovels. The city takes care of our roads but its on Northlanders to maintain the sidewalks of Superior. The city doesn’t have enough resources to ensure the sidewalks are clear for pedestrians. So with this snowfall its important for homeowners and business owners to know the responsibility…

Governor Mark Dayton Visits the Iron Range

Community Leaders Discussed Important Regional Projects with the Governor

MOUNTAIN IRON, Minn. – Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton was on the Iron Range Wednesday. The Governor met with community leaders about issues important to Northern Minnesota. Increasing local government aid, funding various bonding projects, and moving the Polymet project forward were some of the important issues discussed with Governor Dayton. The Range Association for Municipalities and Schools, or RAMS, held…

Superior Fire Department Upgrading Its Headquarters

The Superior Fire Department is accepting bids for the project until Feb.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A big change is coming for the Superior Fire Department. The department’s headquarters will be replaced. The process began in 2014 after a station assessment on all of the facilities found a replacement was needed. The Superior Fire Department is currently operating out of a building that’s 37 years old. The facility doesn’t have enough space to store all…

Free Legal Clinic Helping Veterans In the Northland

The Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans will be in St. Cloud on Jan. 16.

DULUTH, Minn. – Veterans around the Northland sometimes need local help and today a special legal clinic in Duluth offered some free assistance. The program provides legal services to low income veterans or those with housing issues. Veterans could walk in to get advice on whatever legal topic they had including drafting a will. “Often times people earn more income…

Team Heads to Puerto Rico for Power Restoration

Volunteer Workers from Minnesota Power and SWLP will Leave Late Next Week, Spending at Least One Month in Puerto Rico

DULUTH, Minn. – It was back on September 7th when a group of Minnesota Power and Superior Water Light and Power workers chose to volunteer their time to head south, aiding in power restoration efforts in Florida after Hurricane Irma left millions without electricity. Nearly five months after Hurricane Maria slammed into the island of Puerto Rico, recovery and restoration…

Donations Needed at Damiano Center

Men's and Women's Coats and Boots Needed Most

DULUTH, Minn.-The Damiano Center in Duluth is in dire need of clothing donations, as the cold air continues to hover over the Northland. In particular they are looking larger sizes of men’s and women’s coats and boots. Organization leaders told us, without the generosity of the Northland, many of the needy in the area would be facing incredibly tough situations….

New Coffee Shop With A Twist Opening In Superior

Twisted Pastries will have about six employees and baristas begin training in the next few weeks.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A new coffee shop with a twist is coming to Superior. Superior natives Mark and Annette Jacobson are behind the Twisted Pastries Coffeehouse. Twisted Pastries will offer unique flavors such as chai tea cupcakes with green tea frosting. Duluth coffee products will also be served in the shop. Renovations to the building began this week. “We’re excited…

“Calendar Girls” Tickets Going Fast at The Underground

Production Follows Friends through Fame and Friendship

DULUTH, Minn. – The latest production at The Underground is opening Thursday evening. The show follows two friends on a journey for good. “Calendar Girls” is based on a true story of middle-aged friends who decide to raise money for a sofa after the sudden death of a husband. The calendar they create gets them a big amount of attention,…

Kitty Cats and Yoga Mats at HSDC

"Cat Yoga" Has Arrived at the Humane Society of Douglas County; January Classes are Already Sold Out

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Starting Wednesday, January 10 at 6:00p.m., the Twin Ports will now be home to a growing trend already popular across much of the nation. Cat yoga is skyrocketing in popularity, proving to offer benefits such as lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. “Much spontaneous laughter does happen because it’s just so unpredictable,” said Beth Swanson, Fundraising…

The Duluth Salvation Army Wraps Up Its 2017 Red Kettle Campaign

The Red Kettle total was almost the same as last year at $256,018.

DULUTH, Minn. -The Duluth Salvation Army’s 2017 Red Kettle campaign has wrapped up and the results are in. The goal was to raise $300,000 over the holidays. Although the salvation army ended up 15 percent short of that number, the staff tells us it was still a busy season. “The Salvation Army has been in the Duluth area for 125 years…

Lake Superior Zoo Working on New Projects

Zoo Has Begun Its Revitalization Following the 2012 Flood

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lake Superior Zoo is looking ahead to some exciting new developments in 2018. The zoo is starting their revitalization. Since the flood of 2012, changes were needed. Now the zoo is moving forward with some needed projects. Their goal for this year is to raise enough money to build a new bear country exhibit where the…

The Northland Prepares For Looming Winter Storm

The public is advised to be careful when snow plows are on the roads.

DULUTH, Minn. – For the most part, the St. Louis County Public Works Department is ready as early as fall for handling winter storms. Whenever a storm is in the forecast crews go through all of the equipment to make sure everything is cleaned and greased. They also check the plow edges for wear and tear. “This garage, we have…

Mayor Larson Hosts Let’s Do Lunch Event

Mayor Working on State of City Address Which Will be Held in March

DULUTH, Minn.-We are less than 10 days into the new year, but Duluth’s mayor already has some big plans for 2018. Today she spoke with a variety of business leaders at the Greysolon Ballroom during the Chamber’s “Let’s Do Lunch” event. Larson said she’s already been working on her State of the City Address which is set for an unknown…

Future of Edna G Uncertain

Edna G Tugboat in Two Harbors Could be Removed From Water

TWO HARBORS, Minn.-The Edna G tugboat in Two Harbors has been a tourist attraction for years, but it could soon be coming out of the water. Recently the Two Harbors City Council passed a resolution to look into whether to do a feasibility study, that would determine how much it would cost to remove it from Lake Superior and place…

Sound Restaurant Opens in Duluth Today

Concert Featuring Multiple Acts Tonight at 8 p.m. at Sound

DULUTH, Minn.-The new Sound restaurant is open in Duluth. It’s grand opening is today and the place is being described as a spot sorely needed in downtown Duluth. The locale will feature different types of cuisine normally not found in the region like raw oysters and bison strip steaks. It’s all part of the chef’s goal of revitalizing the downtown…

UMD Production Honored at Regional Festival

"Antigone" Encore Performances in Duluth this Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. – A University of Minnesota-Duluth Theatre production is being honored in a big way. The department has been invited to perform “Antigone” at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival in Des Moines, IA. This is one of only seven productions selected to perform in the festival. The play was chosen from hundreds around the region. UMD Theatre…

Walz, Coleman Release Fundraising Totals in Governor’s Race

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – The rush for cash is on in the crowded race for Minnesota governor. Democratic candidate and Rep. Tim Walz said Monday his campaign had raised more than $1.1 million in 2017. Fellow Democrat and former St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman said he’d raised more than $800,000. It highlights the expensive race for the open governor’s…

New Tours, Events, Launch Glensheen Mansion to Record-Breaking Numbers

Northland Uncovered: More than 140,000 Visited Glensheen in 2017

DULUTH, Minn. – Officials are counting record numbers at Glensheen Mansion as they look into the attendance for 2017. This is a trend that’s been on the rise over the last few years. “Which is really something to say because in 1981 the murder was on the press all the time,” explained Director Dan Hartman. Hartman tells FOX 21 this…

Duluth Kicks Off Trafficking Prevention Month

The sixth annual gathering honored victims and survivors.

DULUTH, Minn. – Jan. is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and Duluth is honoring both victims and survivors. Organizers of today’s gathering say when you have people willing to purchase other people and there are potential victims who are vulnerable then human trafficking can exist. A performance by women draped in red shawls helped kick off trafficking prevention month in Duluth….

Trains and Toddlers Held at the Depot

Kids Played and Learned All About Trains

DULUTH, Minn. – Preschoolers took over the Depot today for the Trains and Toddlers event. The kids listened to stories, played with train tables, and boarded the historic, real life trains all around the North Shore Scenic Railroad Museum. “It’s a nice way to come in and hang out with friends and to do something during the day that isn’t…

Historic Saint John’s Bible On Display In Duluth

Staff told us if there a mistake when writing the bible a piece of art was drawn over it instead of starting over.

DULUTH, Minn. – The first handwritten bible commissioned by a Benedictine monastery has made its way to the Northland. The historic Saint John’s Bible is on display at the Benedictine Living community of Duluth. The chapel was full with guests who were there for a blessing event. The bible tour also celebrates the 125th anniversary of the sisters of St….

Warmer Weather Sends People Outdoors

The sunny day was a welcoming sight.

DULUTH, Minn.- With temperatures around 50 degrees warmer than the recent deep freeze people were out soaking in the sunshine especially on the Lakewalk in Duluth. “Taking the walk along the lakeshore here was just a little indulgence that i decided to do because i was going to get back in my car and drive up to the range,” said M’lou Brubaker of Goodland, Minnesota. “But…

Duluth Wedding Show Celebrates 30 Years with Biggest Show Yet

Nearly 150 Exhibitors Expected for Annual Event

DULUTH, Minn. – Planning a wedding can be stressful and difficult, but luckily there’s a resource in town to help local brides and grooms prepare for their special day. The 30th Annual Duluth Wedding Show is Saturday, January 13th at the DECC. Nearly 150 exhibitors will fill six rooms of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. These will feature the latest…

Northern Lights Foundation Calls for “More Cowbell”

Annual Fundraiser Takes Place Thursday Night

DULUTH, Minn. – A night of music, dinner, and drinks is supporting a worthy cause this week. The 9th Annual More Cowbell fundraiser is taking place on Thursday, January 11. The event is once against supporting the Northern Lights Foundation. The foundation gives grants to families who have children with life-threatening illnesses. Several groups will perform on stage with The…

Storyteller Teaches Ojibwe Culture

Mike Sullivan from the LCO Reservation Tells Cultural Stories in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – An Ojibwe storyteller from the LCO reservation near Hayward told traditional stories of his people at the American Indian Community Housing Organization in Duluth. Mike Sullivan learned the tales from elders and tells them the same way they were told to him, in the Ojibwe language. Many of the traditional stories are about the half man, half…

Skating with the UMD Bulldogs

Little Northlanders skated at AMS Oil Arena with the UMD Women's Hockey team

DULUTH, Minn.-Sunday AMS Oil Arena was full of little hockey players. It’s a great day to be a UMD Bulldog, the UMD Women’s Hockey team hosted an open skate Sunday afternoon. The ladies said it was a perfect way to spend their Sunday. “A lot of them come to the games and I think just getting that one on one…

Norshor Theatre Wrapping Up Renovations

The historic Nor Shor Theatre will open up the first of February.

DULUTH, Minn.–  The countdown is on for the revival of downtown Duluth’s historic Norshor Theatre. In less than a month the stage will be lit and the arts and entertainment will begin.  The Duluth Play House will be turning on the Norshor Theatre marquee lights on February 1st. Many helping hands are ensuring the curtain will open. “It’s a historic…

Suds for Shelter Hosts Final Fundraiser

The oldest brewery in Duluth held the final fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity.

DULUTH, Minn.– This winter season breweries around the Northland are teaming up to raise money for Habitat for Humanity during Suds for Shelter. The last fundraiser is at Minnesota’s oldest brewery the Lake Superior Brewing Company. During the Suds for Shelter for every beer purchased $1 is donated to the Western Lake Superior Habitat for Humanity. “It’s kind of a neat…

Banff Film Festive Shown in Duluth

The festival highlights adventures from around the world.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Banff Mountain Film Festival kicked-off night at the DECC in Duluth, but it’s not too late to catch the films. The film festival highlights short films of expeditions and outdoor adventures from around the globe.  The Banff Mountain Film Festival travels around the world. Thanks to the Duluth Cross Country Club the films are shown in the…

Saturday Morning at the Races Kicks-off

The races give kids an opportunity to exercise away from the cold weather.

DULUTH, Minn.– Friday was a day for the races over at the college of St. Scholastica. Kids of all ages took part in the first Saturday Morning at the Races of this winter. Around 400 kids had a chance to exercise and take part in a friendly competition at the St. Scholastica gym. The races vary from 1/8 of a mile…

Spirit Mountain Hosts USSA Race

Kids of all ages competed in the family fun event.

DULUTH, Minn.- The sun was shining at Spirit Mountain as the USSA held the Minnesota/Planet Cup on Saturday. Around 360 racers headed down the slopes participating in timed and un-timed races. The competition included six different USSA teams one team is from Duluth, participating on their home slope. “It’s a unique event that you can be out on the hill, involved…

“Anonymous” Collecting Clothing and Blankets for the Homeless

One Group Member Will Sleep Outside to Raise Homeless Awareness

DULUTH, Minn. – Freezing cold temperatures can be dangerous for thousands of homeless people across the country. In Duluth, the group “Anonymous” is collecting clothing and blanket donations for the homeless. They will make bundles with the donations and leave them around the city. One group member will be sleeping outside in Superior for a whole night next week to…