Community

UW-Superior’s Lake Superior Research Institute Celebrates 50 Years

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin Superior’s Lake Superior Research Institute will celebrate 50 years with a free conference featuring keynote speaker Alexandra Consteau. “This is exciting time to celebrate 50 years of hard work by an environmental organization that is largely funded by extramural funds,” said Dr. Matthew TenEyck, director of Lake Superior Research Institute (LSRI.) “The celebration…

New Trail Opens in Lincoln Park

Trail Leads to Lincoln Park Middle School

DULUTH, Minn.-A new portion of a traverse trail was completed in the Lincoln Park neighborhood today. A ribbon cutting was held earlier today, for the trail that will be connected to the Lincoln Park Middle School. The goal is to encourage youth to explore the trail system and possibly use it as a commuter route. “I think this is a…

Volunteers Work to Count Pedestrians and Bikers in Duluth

Will Help Determine Course of Action for Future Developments

DULUTH, Minn.-A step was taken today, to determine how to make the city of Duluth more bike and pedestrian friendly. Dozens of volunteers took to the streets to count just how many people are using the Duluth’s walkways and bike routes. Organizers say the data will be quite useful. “This will kind of give us; the city planners and the…

Little Foresters Experience New Cabin Classroom

The Secret Forest Playschool Raised Funds for Months Before Building the Cabin Classroom

DULUTH, Minn. – A group of Northland youngsters now have the chance to enjoy their unique new classroom. After months in the making, the doors are now open at the Secret Forest Playschool’s Cabin Classroom. Founded five years ago, Owner Meghan Morrow utilized a space in the East Ridge Community Church until the congregation decided to expand on the property….

Hermantown Community Church Hosts Block Party for Harvey Victims

Hermantown Community Church Hosted Block Party

DULUTH, Minn. As millions continue to try and get their lives back together after Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the Northland continues to show their support. Another benefit for the victims of Hurricane Harvey was held by the Hermantown Community Church. Hundreds showed up Wednesday night at the church to show their support for the victims of Hurricane Harvey Lead pastor…

Annual Walk Creates Space of Support for those in Recovery

Twin Ports Recovery Walk

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend, Northlanders will be walking for recovery to support those going through the process. September is Recovery Month, so the walk is taking place on Saturday, September 16 on the campus of the College of St. Scholastica. Registration is free and starts at 9 a.m. The walk gets underway at 10 a.m. Food, vendors and games…

Historical Society Brings Past to Life within Cemetery

3rd Annual Living History Walk is Saturday

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This weekend the history of Douglas County is coming to life in a place reserved for the dead. The Living History Walk is Saturday, September 16 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. The walk will be at the Greenwood Cemetery, 8402 Tower Avenue Superior, WI 54880. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the gate, $7 Veterans, $5…

Pickleball Clinic Helping Locals Discover the Sport

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Area Pickleball Association is helping locals learn more about the unique sport through open clinics. Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of badminton, table tennis, and regular tennis. It’s played with solid paddles rather than rackets and is something that can be enjoyed by all ages. “I think everyone can play it, everyone has…

Friends of Animals Humane Society Has a New Home

Cloquet Humane Society Held a Grand Opening for Their New Building

CLOQUET, Minn. – Friends of Animals Humane Society has a new building to call home. They had an open house and grand opening ceremony for the new space on Avenue B. Tours showed off the building and taught people about the foster and adoption programs happening at Friends of Animals. “We’re trying to provide a service to animals as well…

Balloon Festival Returning to Bayfront Park This Weekend

Event Will Include a Craft Brew Village, Color Run, and Children's Performance

DULUTH, Minn. – Hot air balloons will be lifting off in Bayfront Park this weekend. Duluth Rising, the annual hot air balloon festival, is back. This year’s event will feature a craft brew village, a color run, and a free performance of “Kids Live” featuring Disney Channel’s Kevin Quinn. “In the evenings when the balloons are lit and it starts…

Final Preparations Before North Shore Inline Marathon

The Race Weekend Kicks Off Friday with the Inline Marathon Expo

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend the largest inline marathon in North America will kick off near Two Harbors with a finish line in Duluth’s Canal Park. It’s time once again for the 22nd Annual North Shore Inline Marathon. Nearly 2,000 athletes are registered throughout a series of six different races. Online registration closes at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, but those interested…

New West Duluth Business Owners Honored

Six Entrepreneurs Presented With a Certificate of Appreciation

DULUTH, Minn. – New business owners were honored by the West Duluth Business and Civic Club. Six entrepreneurs were presented with a certificate of appreciation. Their new businesses filled some empty storefronts in West Duluth and other business owners hope the new ventures will help the whole area do better. “It looks like a very vibrant area to come and…

United Way Unveils “What Do You Fight For?” Campaign

Slogan Asks Northlanders Why It's Important for Them to Give

DULUTH, Minn. – The Head of the Lakes United Way is asking “What Do You Fight For?” The organization unveiled that new slogan today at Essentia Health, one of their largest local partners. The campaign asks people across the Northland what motivates them to give and why it’s important to them that everybody’s basic needs are met. “You may not…

Block Grants Available for Local Communities

Nearly $2 Million Available

PROCTOR, Minn.-Block grant funding has been instrumental in helping build up Saint Louis County since the mid-90s. It helps fund projects like the Vermilion housing project in Tower, created water and sewer infrastructure in six communities, and even helped supply meals through the Salvation Army. Today, a meeting was held in Proctor to discuss with area leaders what projects they…

Northland Residents Enjoy Warm Weather

Temperatures to Dip into 60s Over Weekend

DULUTH, Minn.-We are about a week away from when fall officially begins and many Northland residents are having one last hurrah as they enjoy summer time weather. Highs were expected to be in the 80s today with temperatures dipping into the 60s over the weekend. Today we caught up with one family enjoying one of the last hot days, as…

Artists Filling the Windows of Vacant Duluth Businesses

DULUTH, Minn. A Bemidji photographer has teamed up with a Duluth artist to brighten up store front windows of vacant businesses in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Nik Nerburn walks around Duluth looking for interesting people to photograph. Nerburn came across Brad Tollefson one day and they both agreed they needed to showcase the people of Duluth. “I want to uplift the people…

Imagine Canal Park Launch Party

A New Vision For Canal Park

DULUTH. Minn Imagine Duluth has been collaborating with residents and the Canal Park Business Association to consider the future of Canal Park. The hope for the Imagine Canal Park project is to build upon the successes in this part of the city, while also preserving the area. Imagine Canal Park is working with the public to address issues and figure…

Color Run Looks to Brighten Bayfront Festival Park

The Color Run 5K Will Happen Sunday, September 17, Starting at 9:00 a.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Color Run will return to Bayfront Festival Park on Sunday, September 17 at 9:00 a.m. On Wednesday, dance club students from Duluth Denfeld gave FOX 21’s Brett Scott a preview of what runners can expect. The event is meant to bring Northlanders together for a morning of colorful fun, with a mist of neon color, foam…

Denfeld Students Prepare to Volunteer at Color Run

Registration Continutes Throughout Sunday Morning as Runners Prepare to be Dashed with Color

DULUTH, Minn. – The Color Run will return to Bayfront Festival Park on Sunday, September 17 at 9:00 a.m. On Wednesday, dance club students from Duluth Denfeld gave FOX 21’s Brett Scott a preview of what runners can expect. The event is meant to bring Northlanders together for a morning of colorful fun, with a mist of neon color, foam…

Animal Answers: Bringing Barn Cats Home This Fall

Local Shelters See Abundance of Barn Cat Adoptions in the Fall

DULUTH, Minn. – Shelter animals in the Northland typically find homes rather quickly, however, some animals are less appealing, due to a slight temperament or lack of social well-being. Local shelters want to remind Northlanders now is the perfect time to look at adopting a barn cat if you’re in need of an extra helper around the farm. “Barn cats…

Music Resource Center Back In Session For Students

The after-school programs connects youth and music

DULUTH, Minn. – One of Duluth’s music hot spots is back open after a summer break. The Music Resource Center at Sacred Heart is an after-school program for kids to get a chance to work with music professionals, quality gear, and helps them grow their creative sides. “Music is something that’s so near and dear to so many young people,”…

Duluth Primary Election Results

Council and School Board Seats Up for Grabs

DULUTH, Minn.-Tonight the citizens of Duluth are deciding on who they want to fill two council seats and one on the school board. Polls opened at 7 a.m. as voters are deciding on a city council at-large seat, a Fourth District council seat, and a school board at-large seat. Regardless of how you vote today, local officials remind the public…

Life House Raises Money for New Shelter

The Loft Shelter Will Provide a Place for up to Ten Homeless and Street Youth on Any Given Night

DULUTH, Minn. – Morning commuters in Duluth took it upon themselves to pull over along First Street Tuesday morning. Life House, an organization providing homeless and street youth ages 12-25 with unconditional support, hosted their 2nd Annual ‘Drive Up The Change’ event. Money collected will go toward the facility’s new emergency shelter atop the First Street location. The shelter plans…

Northern Paddler’s Alliance Hosts Final Free Event of the Season

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northern Paddler’s Alliance has teamed up with Swiftwater Adventures to host their fifth and final event of the season. On Saturday, Sept. 16 community members can join the crews to go whitewater rafting down the St. Louis River followed by a BBQ picnic. The event is free and open to the public. Participants must be 11…

Ethnic Days to Feature Slovenian Button Box Player

Gary New Duluth Hosts "Ethnic Days" at New Pavilion This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend Ethnic Days is taking over Gary New Duluth. There will be performances by The Singing Slovenes with special guest performers. Gasper Krek, visiting from Slovenia, will play the button box. The Sam Miletich Tamburica Ensemble will also perform. There will also be Kolo dance instruction, face painting and ethnic food available. This will all be…

Duluth Woman’s Club Receives Historical Designation

Northland Uncovered: Duluth Heritage Preservation Landmark

DULUTH, Minn. – In Duluth, historical buildings fill the town and old mansions line the streets, giving beautiful views for visitors to enjoy. One Duluth home is now recognized as a Duluth Heritage Preservation Landmark. The women of the Duluth Woman’s Club are continuing a tradition. “We all feel like it’s a very special place and it’s home,” explained Ellie…

Imagine Canal Park Pops Up At Miller Hill Mall

The group is seeking public input on what improvements could be made to Canal Park

DULUTH, Minn. – Community members were invited to come by the Miller Hill Mall on Monday to give input on Canal Park improvements. Imagine Canal Park is an offshoot of the Imagine Duluth campaign. City officials are looking to get public input on Canal Park, and what potential changes the community might like to see. “We want every aspect of…

American Society of Civil Engineers Duluth Section celebrates 100th anniversary

The ASCE also named the Aerial Lift Bridge a civil engineering historical landmark

DULUTH, Minn. – The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Duluth Section celebrated its 100th anniversary on Monday.  The ASCE celebrated by dedicating the Aerial Lift bridge as a national historic civil engineering landmark, and recognized all the important work civil engineers do behind the scenes. ASCE president-elect Kristina Swallow said, “From the moment we get up and stumble into…

Knowing Your Neighbors: Skyline Lanes

The Bowling Alley Is More Than Just Bowling

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — In this week’s Knowing Your Neighbors, we head to Skyline Lanes in Hermantown where it’s more than just bowling. “We have a variety of different activities from bowling. We do volleyball as you can see were standing out here on the courts. We also have bocce and bean bag leagues,” said Corey Kolquist, manager at Skyline Lanes….

City Looking at Helping Get More Business in Industrial Park

City Applying for Grant Worth $1.7 Million

DULUTH, Minn.-The Duluth City Council is all set to vote tonight on applying for a grant that could lead to an economic boom in western Duluth. The grant is for $1.7 million and would be used to connect Waseca Industrial Road with Highway 23 and Grand Avenue. City leaders believe this will allow for more business to be conducted in…

Local Utility Crews Work to Restore Power in Florida

Minnesota Power and Superior Water Light and Power Crews are in Miami Working to Restore Power

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Power and Superior Water Light and Power (SWLP) crews are hitting the ground in Miami Monday. Sunday night, 31 utility workers were stationed waiting out the storm in Orlando at Florida Power and Light’s staging area. They have now been moved to Miami at the request of Florida Power and Light. The crews will help with…

Wisconsin National Guard Troops Deploy to Florida

Soldiers from the 173rd Brigade Engineer Battalion, part of the Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, depart the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Madison, Wis., Monday morning (Sept. 11) as part of a convoy en route to Florida to assist with Hurricane Irma response efforts there. Gov. Scott Walker issued Executive Order 254 Sept. 8, which authorized…

Local Leaders Seek Community Input on Future of Canal Park

Imagine Canal Park 2035

DULUTH, Minn. – Imagine Canal Park is a new initiative with the goal to make that area a spot for residents and not just tourists. In June, Duluth received a grant from the Knight Foundation to look at ways to further engage and create a common public space for residents to increase social interaction and connect with their city. The…

Food Banks Seek Donations in September

Coffee Conversation: Hunger Action Month

DULUTH, Minn. – This month people across the country are doing what they can to help the hungry. September is annually recognized as Hunger Action Month. This is meant to encourage people to donate to their local food banks. Shaye Moris, the Executive Director of Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank, says monetary donations go the farthest. The food bank…

Range Regional Airport Receives Over $3.7 Million for Safety Improvements

(Facebook) HIBBING, Minn. – The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a grant of $3,729,074 for safety improvements at the Range Regional Airport in Hibbing. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, along with Rep. Rick Nolan, made the announcement Monday. “Improving the safety of our infrastructure serves as a down payment on the long-term economic well-being of Minnesota and the country,”…

14-Year-Old Dies After Fatal Fall off Palisade Head

The Girl Was With Friends When She Fell Over the Cliff

SILVER BAY, Minn. – The Lake County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate a fall from a cliff on the North Shore. Just after 1 p.m. Sunday afternoon, the Sheriff’s Office received several 9-1-1 calls after a 14-year-old girl. identified as Bailey Belisle, fell from Palisade Head. The girl was with friends when she fell. After her fall, some bystanders rappelled…

City Council Candidate Wants Light Rail System in Duluth

Richard Williams Is Running for an At Large Position on the Council

DULUTH, Minn. – A city council candidate has proposed building a light rail system in Duluth. Richard Williams is running for an at large spot on the city council. His proposal is for a light rail loop that would stop at high-volume spots around town like the Transit Center, UMD, the Lake Superior Zoo, and the Miller Hill Mall. “I…

St. Luke’s Employees Donate Hair to Cancer Patients

Hair Will Be Donated to Pantene Beautiful Lengths Program and Made Into Wigs

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Four St. Luke’s employees donated their hair to women who lost theirs because of cancer treatments. Four St. Luke’s staff members participated in the drive. Their hair was cut at Trends Day Spa and Salon in Superior. All that hair will be donated to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths Program. They will make it into wigs that will…

Lake Superior Zoo Gains Accreditation

Zoo's Accreditation Extended by Four Years

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s good news for the Lake Superior Zoo. The zoo’s accreditation was extended four years by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The AZA, which grants accreditation to less than 10% of the approximately 2,800 animal attractions licensed by the Department of Agriculture, praised the zoo for stabilizing its finances while developing a plan for sustainability. “We…

New banners unveiled at Heritage Sports Center

30 foot banners feature values they wish to instill in young athletes

DULUTH, Minn. – New artwork is hanging outside the Essentia Health Duluth Heritage Sports Center. The facility recently unveiled eight 30-foot banners featuring illustrations from local artist Tim Cortes. Each banner also includes one of the Heritage Center’s values, which staff tries to instill in young athletes. “We’re trying to emphasize the values that were present as we built this place,”…

Harvest Festival celebrates 24 years

Music, food, and crafts

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth’s Harvest Festival celebrated 24th years of connecting the community to local food growers as well as sustainable energy providers. Harvest Festival is hosted at Bayfront Festival Park by the Lake Superior chapter of the Sustainable Farming Association. The event featured locally grown food, live music and craft demonstrations. “We are a really vibrant community, and lots…

Hundreds come out for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The event raised more than $170,000 for Alzheimer's research and assistance

DULUTH, Minn. – Nearly one-thousand people walked this morning to help end Alzheimer’s Disease. This year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s was the first joint venture between organizations in Duluth and Superior. By combining forces, more than $170,000 were raised to support research to end Alzheimer’s and dementia. “Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death, and the only one in…

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is sending fudge for troops

Chocolate Factory is matching each pound of fudge purchased by customers

The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is teaming up with the Blue Star Mothers of America to help send some fudge to our troops overseas. Throughout the month of September, when anyone buys a pound of fudge from any of the stores, the factory will match that pound to be sent overseas. “It’s just fun to have something like fudge,” owner…

Letica Looks for More Donations, Leaves Sunday for Texas

Northlander's Donated Thousands of Items Just Days Ago, Now Letica and Volunteers Travel to Texas a Second Time

DULUTH, Minn. – After Hurricane Harvey hit Texas, Duluth Entrepreneur Mike Letica organized a drive, gathered a group of volunteers and drove south with a truckload of 45,000 pounds of donations for storm victims. Letica and his group are doing it again, Saturday and Sunday. “How much more can people take,” said Letica. It’s a question he may never have…

Superior city budget nearing final stages

The budget features more funding for public safety and neighborhood improvements

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Superior’s city budget is in the final stages and getting ready to go to city council. The roughly $29 million budget features in increase in the Neighborhood Improvement Fund, and added funding for public safety, including more training for police. City leaders were able to close the deficit, leave a surplus, all without adding any new tax…

Reunion Held for USS Duluth Members

Reunion Will Continue on Through Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. – Members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps who served on the USS Duluth, reunited today for a picnic in Enger Park. The ship was commissioned in 1965 and then served this country for another 40 years. Crewmen told us today that these reunions remind them of the solidarity the military brings to its members. “There’s a…

Harvest Fest Held Today

Event Spotlights Students at Woodland and Cambria Hills Programs

DULUTH, Minn.-We are less than a few weeks away from fall officially starting, but that doesn’t fall festivals can’t start already. Today Woodland and Cambria Hills residential programs came together for their Harvest Fest. Students from the programs cooked up foods for the public that they’ve grown in their garden. They also got to show the public pictures they’ve been…