Community

Hermantown Sammy’s Pizza Closes

The pizza place loses its lease as the Lakehead Oil's gas station closes

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – After 26 years in Hermantown, the Sammy’s Pizza at the BP gas station on Miller Trunk Highway is closed. Lakehead Oil’s gas station, that housed the pizza place, has closed, which means that the Sammy’s Pizza there had lost its lease and was also forced to close up shop. Sammy’s manager Pat Daly said it’s the people…

Northlanders Hit the Road, Air For Thanksgiving

The AAA reports nearly one million more Americans will travel this Thanksgiving.

DULUTH, Minn.- The busy holiday travel season is underway AAA reports 48.7 million Americans will travel over 50 miles this Thanksgiving. Traveling during the holidays can be a stressful one, but Duluthians told FOX21 they are packed prepared and ready to go. Over at the Duluth International Airport travelers are coming and going pretty smoothly and the stress has minimized…

Holiday Spirit In The Lights: A Park Point Jewel Is On For Another Year

Display Was Close To Shutdown Because Of Volunteers Needed

DULUTH, Minn- The Holiday Spirit in the Lights display on Park Point has won numerous awards over the past 25 years. With one flip of the switch all that nearly came to an end this year. For Marcia Hales, the love of Christmas and the love of Christmas lights stem from her childhood. “We used to pile the family in…

Proctor Bar Raising Money For Night to Shine Prom

More Than 500 Churches Across the United States Will Host a Night to Shine Prom

PROCTOR, Minn. – Night to Shine gives people over the age of 14 with special needs a prom experience they’ll never forget. In order to pull out all the stops including a limousine it costs about $15,000 for the prom, which takes place at Proctor High School on Feb. 9, 2018. “I’ve had a lot of people that can’t make…

Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tips

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days for firefighters.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Thanksgiving turkey can be delicious, but in some homes it can be quite dangerous. The number of fires on Thanksgiving day, are typically three times higher than on an average day. The Duluth Fire Department told FOX21 some key tips to make sure your feast is fire free. Typically on this holiday several dishes are cooking in the…

DECC Feeding Thousands For Annual Thanksgiving Buffet

The College of St. Scholastica Hosts the Buffet and About 2,000 Paper Bag Turkey Sandwiches Will Also Be Distributed.

Duluth, Minn. – Thanksgiving Day is only one day away but volunteers started to prep last week to feed nearly 5,000 people in need at the 28th Annual Twin Ports Thanksgiving Buffet. “It’s a time where everyone come together and the end result is the same to have a fantastic day,” said Event Organizer Monica Hendrickson. “Everyone deserves a hot…

Local Businesses Offer Deals for Small Business Saturday

Shopping Small to Support Northland Businesses

DULUTH, Minn. – Later this week many shoppers will be heading out in the early hours of Friday morning to find an unbelievable deal, but some Duluthians are asking you to wait until the weekend. That’s because Small Business Saturday is Saturday, November 25. Many local shops will be hosting open houses and offering special promotions, demonstrations, and workshops. For…

15-Year-Old Sexually Assaulted and Threatened with Knife in Ely

ELY, Minn. – The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office and Ely Police Department responded to the report of a sexual assault in the evening hours of Monday, Nov. 20, according to police. Authorities report that a 15-year-old female had been threatened with a knife and sexually assaulted by an adult acquaintance, who was identified as as a 35-year-old male of…

Animal Blood Donors Needed in the Northland

Dogs and Cats Can Be Tested to See if They're Eligable to Donate

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds someone in the United States is in need of donated blood. Experts say it’s why blood drives are so critical in every community across the Northland. But have you ever thought about your animals when it comes to donating? Every year thousands of humans do good by donating…

Great Outdoors: Dog Parks

A New Dog Park Opened Tuesday in Gary-New Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s a new dog park at the Gary-New Duluth Community Center. There are now four dog parks across Duluth. “Not everybody wants to walk five miles, not everybody wants to walk around the block, but they love coming to the dog park and hanging out and meeting other people and then watching the dogs’ interaction, it’s a…

Earth Rider Beers Available Now

Superior's First Distribution Brewer Since the 1960s Celebrates Launch

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The beers are ready at Superior’s first distribution brewery since the 1960s. Earth Rider Brewery has five beers available now: The Apple Crush Tart, the North Tower Stout, a pale ale, an IPA, and the Earth Rider Lager. They’re celebrating their launch with all five beers on tap at the Cedar Lounge in Superior. “We really want…

Northlanders Stocking Up on Holiday Wreaths

Duluth Flower Farm Is Supplying Retailers With Wreaths

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Northlanders are stocking up on their holiday decorations, including Christmas trees and wreaths. Duluth Flower Farm has been filling orders all over the country from retailers looking for wreaths. They say hanging a wreath is a great way to say you’re ready for the holidays. “Wreath is a signal of hope and I think the smell is…

Open Studio Invites All Artists

Artists who specialize in various mediums gather to work.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Calling all artists, you’re invited to create in a space together during open studio. Thanks to the Duluth Art Institute open studio happens once a week at the Depot and on West Second Street in Lincoln Park. The art institute says this gives artists of all ages and a variety of mediums a common place to share ideas. “So…

‘Heroes Tree’ Honors Veterans for the Holiday Season

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The Richard I. Bong Veteran Center in Superior is gearing up for the holiday season. And they’re also helping to honor veterans at the same time. The ‘Heroes Tree’ features hand-made ornaments. Mary Houk, regent of the Lake Superior Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, says her organization has been assembling this tree for a…

Duluth Winter Village Returns to Glensheen

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Winter Village is returning to the grounds of Glensheen Mansion for its second year. The outdoor winter market is designed to promote small businesses and artists in the Duluth area and is aiming to become a new tradition in the Northland. The Duluth Winter Village is a two-day event featuring wooden cabins where local businesses…

DTA to Offer Free Shuttle to DECC on Thanksgiving

Sponsored by the National Bank of Commerce

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Transit Authority has announced that it is once against partnering up with the College of St. Scholastica to offer passenger free rides to the annual Thanksgiving buffet at the DECC. For 28 years, the DTA has offered free holiday service on Thanksgiving. The Thanksgiving Holiday Service will feature two special shuttle buses; “Turkey Bus 1”…

Former Students Remember Happy Times at Morgan Park School

Northland Uncovered: Morgan Park School

DULUTH, Minn. – A school standing in Duluth for over 100 years is being torn down to make room for new apartments. A fence and no trespassing signs now surround the old Morgan Park School. These images representing a much different message than the one former students remember. “It was like a big, happy community,” said 1980 graduate Mike Letica….

Foreigner Returns to the DECC with Dave Eggar Orchestra

WED, APRIL 4 | DOORS OPEN AT 7 P.M. | SHOW AT 8 P.M.

(via Jade Presents) DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center has announced that rock and roll band, Foreigner will be taking the stage once again in April. On Wednesday, April 4, 2018, at 8 p.m. Foreigner will hit the stage with Dave Eggar Orchestra. This collaboration will add new flavor and excitement into Foreigner’s long list of hits. Tickets…

Christmas City Express Ranked One of 10 Best Christmas Trains in America

Annual Train Ride Begins Friday

DULUTH, Minn. – A holiday season staple in the Northland is now chugging down the tracks with a big title. Web portal MSN has named the Christmas City Express of the North Shore Scenic Railroad one of the 10 best Christmas train rides in America. The ride received this honor due to a combination of the train ride and the…

Fire in Normanna Township Destroys Garage

Officials Believe the Fire is Accidental at This Time

NORMANNA TOWNSHIP, Minn. – St. Louis Deputies and fire crews responded to 6407 Mcquade Road in Normanna Township shortly after 12:00 a.m. Tuesday. When crews arrived they began extinguishing a fully engulfed garage fire. Officials say an unattended wood stove could have been the cause of the fire. The garage was a total loss with some damage to the residence…

How Sweet It Is Back Open for Business

Two local businesses team up to keep staple eats in the Twin Ports available

DULUTH, Minn.- A popular sweets shop that was forced to close last month after 20 years of business has officially made an unexpected comeback. How Sweet It Is Cakes has re–opened a revised business model inside the Duluth Grill in Lincoln Park. The owner of How Sweet It Is closed in October because of declining sales, after moving into the Holiday…

Duluthians on Olympic Curling Team Welcomed Back Home

Three Local Curlers Made the 2018 Men's U.S. Olympic Curling Team

DULUTH, Minn. – This past Saturday, three Duluthians earned the right to represent the U.S.A. in the 2018 Winter Olympics. At the Duluth Curling Club, friends, fans, and family welcomed home their Olympians. John Shuster, Tyler George, and John Landstiner were all on hand, excited to share their victory with all of the Northland. “It always feels like you’re representing…

Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil Held in Duluth

Vigil and Rally Aim to Raise Awareness for Trans Rights

DULUTH, Minn. – Trans people and their allies across the world are standing together to honor transgender lives lost to hate and violence. For Transgender Remembrance Day, a vigil and rally were held in Downtown Duluth at the corner of Lake Avenue and Superior Street. Organizers say their goal is to raise awareness for trans rights in the Northland. “If…

Packed Council Chambers Discusses Paid Sick And Safe Time

Task Force Gives Two Recommendations To City Council

DULUTH, Minn- The Earned Sick and Safe Time Task Force recommended the Duluth City Council adopt an ordinance that would provide two alternatives for businesses to give paid time off to workers who don’t currently get any. In a survey conducted by the task force, data shows that 46% of workers within the Duluth currently aren’t getting any sick and…

Ideal Winter Conditions at Spirit Mountain

The largest event at Spirit Mountain is this coming weekend and the hill is prepared.

DULUTH, Minn.- This coming weekend is a busy one for Spirit Mountain as they will host the 26th annual AMSOIL Duluth Snocross. The event will run across the length of the top chalet with other parts of the mountain remaining open. Although the Northland has yet to become a winter wonderland, officials at the mountain told FOX 21 the hill…

LOCATED: Todd Sarkela, of Duluth

Todd Sarkela (Facebook) UPDATE: Todd Sarkela has been found safe. DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating 55-year-old Todd Sarkela, of Duluth. Todd is described as a white male, 5’9″, 120 pounds, with hazel eyes and sandy hair; and typically walks with a cane. He was reported missing to police on Sunday, Nov….

Technology Tips to Help with Holiday Travels

DULUTH, Minn. – Many Northlanders will be taking to the skies and the roads to visit family and friends for Thanksgiving. Verizon Wireless Solutions Specialist Rachel Agurkis stopped by FOX 21 to give tips for keeping the home and vehicle safe during these trips. Some technology that can be picked up at Verizon Wireless includes: Arlo Cam: Protect your home…

Northland Breweries Helping Habitat for Humanity

Northlanders can grab a cold one for a good cause.

DULUTH, Minn.- Breweries in the Northland are teaming up to help out a local non–profit. The Suds for Shelter Benefit is giving craft brew lovers a good reason to grab a cold one. Participating breweries are donating a portion of pint sales to the Western Lake Superior Habitat for Humanity. This Tuesday, Nov. 21st.  the benefit will be held at Blacklist Brewery….

Shuster Skates to Fourth Winter Olympics

Shuster Joins Multiple Duluthians Headed to South Korea

OMAHA, Neb- Chisholm native John Shuster is heading back to the Winter Olympics for an incredible fourth time. Shuster bested Heath McCormick in the final of a best of 3 series to win the U.S. Olympic trials. Duluth natives, and teammates Tyler George and John Landsteiner, as well as Wisconsin native Matt Hamilton, will join him. The 2018 Winter Olympics will…

Christmas Trees Take Over Duluth Farmers’ Market

Northlanders can now decorate for the holiday season before Thanksgiving.

DULUTH, Minn.- Are you eager to spruce up your house for the holiday season? Christmas trees are now for sale at the Duluth Farmers’ Market.  This is the first year Hoffbauer Tree Farm is selling Christmas trees before Thanksgiving. At the market, Northlanders can pick out the perfect tree for their home with sizes ranging from eight feet high to a…

Love–A–Pet Day Gives Animals a New Home

Local event highlights animals up for adoption.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.- Saturday was one for the dogs at Miller Hill Subaru. Dogs and cats from Animal Allies Humane Society and Lake County Humane Society found their new families at Love–A–Pet day. It’s Animal Allies largest off site adopt event. If you’re looking for a furry friend more pets will available on Sunday. “Adoption is so important because when you…

Festival of the Season Held in Duluth

Northlanders prepare for the holiday season at the last farmers market of the winter season.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Farmers Market is filled with Christmas spirit during the 11th annual Festival of the Season. vendors show off their holiday decorations at the market. Although some Northlanders may be holding off on decorating for the Christmas season, one vendor told FOX21 it’s never too early to decorate. “It’s never, especially a year like this year when winter…

Northlanders Help Create Gingerbread City

Families learn Nordic and Minnesota Christmas traditions while constructing the Gingerbread City.

DULUTH, Minn.- Little Northlanders gathered Saturday constructing a Gingerbread Village. The 6th annual Pepperkakebyen Gingerbread City is on display at the Nordic Center. Families got in to the holiday spirit making traditional Nordic crafts. Art education students from the University of Minnesota Duluth volunteered, helping create the winter wonderland. “I find it very interesting because a lot of this information I…

Bentleyville Tour of Lights Officially Open

Northlanders attended the first opening night of Bentleyville Tour of Lights.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Bentleyville Tour of Lights is now open to shine throughout the holiday season. Duluth is beaming with holiday spirit; families, couples, and friends stayed warm with hot chocolate while admiring the bright lights. With so many different attractions picking a favorite light display can be tough. What’s your favorite display at Bentleyville Tour of Lights? “The big…

Duluth Hits the Trail For National Take a Hike Day

Duluth Has More Than 10 Trails Including: Park Point Trail and the Western Waterfront Trail

DULUTH, Minn. – Hiking in Duluth is a big deal, rain or shine, so when it’s National Take A Hike Day it calls for a celebration. The Duluth Experience was at Chester Park helping promote the city’s parks and trails. They encourage people to go outside and become familiar with exploring their city. “There is this day where we should…

45 Foot Tree Lit For The Season

Christmas Tree Is Located In Downtown Duluth

DULUTH, Minn- Let there be light in downtown Duluth! The official lighting of the Christmas tree took place Friday evening. The ceremony is a 33 year old tradition for the city of Duluth. This year the white spruce tree is about 45 feet tall. 26 nominations from the community were received before this beauty made the final cut. After the…

Northlanders Spread Thanksgiving Cheer

Northlanders come together during the Thanksgiving season, ensuring everyone has a hot meal.

DULUTH, Minn.- Nearly 5,000 meals are given out on Thanksgiving at the 28th annual Twin Ports Thanksgiving Buffet. Preparations to feed Northlanders at the Thanksgiving feast, begin back in August. Friday volunteers brought in 2,200 pounds of turkey and nearly 1,900 pounds of mashed potatoes. The group of volunteers lending a hand, come from many different backgrounds. “We really all…

Bentleyville Brings in New Attractions

This year Northlanders are encouraged to use their cameras and capture moments at Bentleyville.

DULUTH, Minn.- Volunteers are working on the final preparations for Bentleyville, before the holiday season kicks off Saturday. Final touches are being perfected, before Santa parachutes in Saturday night. This year families and friends can cherish Bentleyville memories for years to come. The light festival has a variety of new photo spots set up as you walk through the Winter Wonderland….

Fighting Domestic Violence in the Northland

One local organization gives locals an opportunity to make a direct impact on abuse within the community.

DULUTH, Minn.- The organization Men as Peacemakers, aims to make a  direct impact on the domestic violence within our community. The organization is hosting domestic violence restorative circles, which rely on community support. The classes needed to be a volunteer are currently underway this weekend. Around four to six community members are needed during each circle meeting. This weekend the training…

Give to the Max Day Raises $20.6 Million for Minnesota Organizations

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota set a new record during the state’s annual giving holiday. Roughly 5,400 nonprofits and schools across the state raised $20.6 million during the ninth annual Give to the Max Day. The day’s total was approximately $500,000 higher than the previous record set in 2016. Donations were made from 87 Minnesota counties, all 50 states, and…

Local Farmers Prepare for Holiday Decor Sales

DULUTH, Minn. – With Thanksgiving just next week, many Northlanders are close to purchasing their fresh Christmas tree. Derek Hoffbauer, Owner of the Duluth Flower Farm, says they have been busy preparing for the holiday season. Already they’ve received several orders online for wreaths, garland and more. Their products can be picked up in person at Dan’s Feed Bin in…

Working Out with Kettlebells

Active Adventures: Duluth YMCA

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth YMCA in downtown offers several options for exercise. They have offerings from group classes, rock climbing, racquetball, to swimming lessons, pickleball, basketball, and much more. For this week’s Active Adventures, FOX 21’s William Seay learned how to work with kettlebells. Alisha Bradley, Director of Healthy Living for the YMCA, says it’s a strength training device…

Duluth Organizations Take Advantage of Give To the Max Day

Most of the Organizations Set A Goal and Donors Can Match It

DULUTH, Minn. – When you add thousands of people and they give millions of dollars in donations that equals to Give To the Max Day in Minnesota. It’s the ninth year for the campaign where anyone can donate to causes they support. More than $14 million have been raised so far and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime…

Northlanders raise money for hurricane victims in the Virgin Islands

The benifit was held to raise funds and awareness of the rebuilding efforts in the Virgin Islands

DULUTH, Minn. – A couple of Northlanders with ties to the virgin islands are hosting a fundraiser for hurricane victims there. It featured many live musical acts, as well as a silent auction. Organizers hope that this event can bring awareness to the recovering efforts that are still going on in those heavily affected areas. “The U.S. Virgin Islands is…

City of Duluth hosts open house to discuss Superior Street reconstruction

The Superior Street reconstruction project is set to begin in early 2018

DULUTH, Minn. -Plans for the major Superior Street reconstruction project in the Duluth is one step closer to being finalized. The city held an open house on Thursday for the public to see the plans for the downtown project. Residents, Superior Street business owners were on hand to share their input about the upcoming transformation. “This is the transition from…

Lincoln Park Business Business Group hosts annual Turkey Bingo

It was the 69th annual Turkey Bingo

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lincoln Park community came together a the VFW for the annual Turkey Bingo. It was the 69th year for the Turkey Bingo. The event is put on by the Lincoln Park Business Group as a way to bring people together, share some laughs, and hear about all the ways Lincoln Park is growing. “We got some…