Community

Grant provides St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office with new lifesaving device

LUCAS 3 DULUTH, Minn.– St. Louis County first responders will now be better equipped to save lives, thanks to a grant from the Helmsley Charitable Trust, the University of Minnesota Center for Resuscitative Medicine, and Stryker. The Lucas 3 machine is an automated chest compression device. The lifesaving device allows law enforcement to focus on other tasks, while the patient…

Local Police team up with the Salvation Army “Stuff the Squad” Toy Drive

CLOQUET, Minn. — Holiday cheer filled the aisles of Walmart and L&M in Cloquet as police officers partnered with local kids for the ninth annual “Stuff the Squad” and “Shop with a Cop” Salvation Army Toy Drive. The Cloquet Police Department and Fond du Lac Police Department kicked off the night by taking local kids on a holiday shopping trip,…

American Red Cross celebrates holiday season with blood drives

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The American Red Cross is hosting a special double-edition blood drive with their “Battle of the Badges” events. The two-part blood drive, the second part of which taking place at First United Methodist Church in Duluth on Dec. 4, allows each person donating to vote for their favorite department of Twin Ports first responders, in a friendly…

UMD hosts Big Band Jazz Concert

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of Minnesota-Duluth UMD treated both students and community members to a night of jazz with their Big Band Jazz Concert The big band was joined by the school’s vocal jazz ensemble “Lake Effect”. Tickets were free for all Bulldog students at the event, as all types of musicians got into the holiday spirit. Categories: Community,…

New catering company serving up smiles alongside home cooked food

DULUTH, Minn. — A new catering company in Duluth is serving up smiles alongside a good meal. “Cooking is my life. Cooking is like my breath, cooking is my heartbeat, cooking is the blood that flows through my veins,” Solomon Witherspoon, Unity Cooking Owner said. Duluth Native Solomon Witherspoon has always used cooking to spread joy. Now, following his fathers…

UMD Graphic design students painting a mural at Lake Superior Hall

Since 2019, graphic design students at UMD have been making student housing walls more colorful. And this year’s group includes Greta Feist, Albert Edumndson, Maria Owens, Autumn Gilligan and Maddie Larson, won a contest in class to give them this opportunity. For five UMD students, graphic design has been their passion. The semester long project is translating their digital experience,…

Duluth Firefighters held Mustache Madness competition, Winner Announced!

Captain Dan Smith, Mustache Madness Winner DULUTH, Minn. — Captain Dan Smith took home the trophy in the DFD’s first Mustache Madness competition. In the last week of November, the Duluth Fire Department has held a contest for which firefighter had the fan favorite mustache. Captain Smith narrowly won with 1,497, with less than fifty votes separating him from his…

Public input meeting held for St. Louis County’s 2026 budget

DULUTH, Minn. — The St. Louis County Board held a public input meeting on the proposed 2026 operating budget and property tax levy. The budget is expected to exceed $560 million to help fund essential public safety services, health and human services, infrastructure, and general government. It includes $202 million brought in through the property tax levy, which is a…

Fairlawn Mansion begins holiday tours

DULUTH, Minn. — The Fairlawn Mansion, in Superior, is back hosting its holiday tours and events. The mansion is elegantly decorated for the holidays, highlighting its rich Victorian history and an exhibit featuring rare artifacts from the Superior Historic Properties and the Douglas County Historical Society. The holiday tours run throughout Dec., alongside other events such as a quiet Santa,…

Scam Jam familiarizes community to help prevent fraud

DULUTH, Minn.– The Better Business Bureau teamed up with American Association of Retired Persons to familiarize over 100 people with detecting scams. Attendees at the scam jam got to learn from numerous outlets, including the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Department. and the Minnesota Department of Commerce. AARP officials told FOX 21us, individuals who are between the ages of 20 and…

DEDA approves future development of Lester Golf Course

DULUTH, Minn.–The Duluth Economic Development Authority held a meeting, and future plans were approved for the Lester Golf Course property. Over the course of 9 months, a land study will take place on the 250-acre property, allowing community members to voice opinions. Councilor Arik Forsman told FOX 21, it’s future will range from potential housing, conservation opportunities, as well as…

$50k Powerball winner in Virginia

ROSEVILLE, Min. & DULUTH, Min. – The Minnesota Lottery has announced someone bought a Powerball ticket in Virginia worth $50,000. It was purchased at the Short Stop at 1131 2nd Ave. S. The ticket was for the November 26, 2025 drawing. It had four out of the five numbers correct, plus the Powerball correct. In Minnesota, prize claims must be…

Chester Bowl seeking support on Giving Tuesday

DULUTH, Minn. — It’s Giving Tuesday, and local organizations like Chester Bowl are grateful for community support. Chester Bowl helps kids and families get out in nature and enjoy the seasons. They have their Ski and Snowboard programs, summer programming, concerts in the park and more. Currently they are preparing to build a new chalet with more accessibility and space….

Michael and Susan Dell donate $6.25 billion to encourage families to claim ‘Trump Accounts’

Michael and Susan Dell pose for photographs Nov. 26, 2025, in New York. NEW YORK (AP) — Billionaires Michael and Susan Dell pledged $6.25 billion Tuesday to provide 25 million American children under 10 an incentive to claim the new investment accounts for children created as part of President Donald Trump’s tax and spending legislation. The historic gift has little precedent,…

Hartel Disposal matching $75,000 in donations for Salvation Army

DULUTH, Minn.–Hartel Disposal, a local waste management company is wasting no time helping out the Salvation Army. Starting on Tuesday December 2nd Hartel Disposal will match up to $75,000 in donations towards the Salvation Army. Perfect for the occasion, a special Hartel garbage can is decorated, and ready to receive. Donations can only be dumped at the West Duluth location,…

UMD students hold ‘ICE Whistle Training Session’

DULUTH, Minn. — As Immigration and Customs Enforcement increases raids in cities across the country, the University of Minnesota-Duluth’s chapter of the Young Democratic Socialists of America are taking action of their own. The student organization’s most recent event is what they dub an “ICE whistle training session.” The event welcomed community members to campus as well, with the organizers…

Jeff Bezos awards $2.5M to Chum

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth’s Chum Drop-In Shelter has landed its biggest grant in the history of the non-profit, thanks to the owners of one of the biggest companies in the world. Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren, issued a $2.5 million grant to Chum through its Day 1 Families Fund. That fund focuses on connecting families with housing and hope….

Merryweather Inn lights up the holidays

DULUTH, Minn. — The Merryweather Inn is back again, hosting Marcia Hales’ famous “spirit of the Lights” display. The Inn is festively decorated from top to bottom, inside and out, spreading holiday cheer throughout the community. Visitors are encouraged to drive up to the Inn for a quick view or take a walk along their lighted path. While exploring, people…

UMD stores preparing for finals weeks and holidays

DULUTH, Minn.– It’s a busy time of year with finals, and the holidays all wrapped together. And luckily, UMD is prepared for all of it. The UMD store will be celebrating cyber-Monday and continuing through finals week. For the occasion, they’re putting lots of UMD merchandise on sale. And to get through final exams, they’ve assembled ‘survival kits’ to purchase…

Farmer Doug’s Tree Farm gaining statewide attention

DULUTH, Minn.– Tis the season for trees, and many of the local tree farms are now in full swing. Some of the customers are traveling hours to make the trek for their perfect tree. Farmer Doug said, it’s been a slow fall season. Now, pumpkins are done, and winter has finally shown itself. They’re fully stocked with their supply of…

Farmers market vendors say they are still waiting on payments from Community Action Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — During the ongoing tensions between Community Action Duluth and its employees, Twin Ports vendors with the Duluth Farmers Markets are still yet to be paid their promised fee by the organization. According to one of the vendors, many sellers attending these markets have yet to receive compensation from Community Action Duluth, as part of the non-profit’s EBT…

Santa and his reindeer begin meet and greets at Fitgers

DULUTH, Minn.– The holiday season has officially arrived, and Santa Claus and his reindeer are wasting no time getting into the spirit. Each weekend leading up to Christmas, Santa is stopping by Fitgers to visit with kids and families. He isn’t coming alone; Donner and Blitzen are tagging along for some extra holiday fun. Santa said he’s looking forward to…

Superior kicks off Small Business Saturday with annual Holiday tree lighting

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The community gathered at Center City Park in Superior’s downtown business district for the annual Holiday tree lighting, which also marked the official kickoff to Small Business Saturday. Before the countdown began, families and community members filled the park, sipping on hot cocoa, enjoying cookies, and listening to cheerful holiday music as Santa and his helpers greeted…

Rules: FOX 21 Days of Holiday Treasures

Fox 21 Days of Holiday Treasure Sponsors Fox 21 Days of Holiday Treasure Rules Promotion Period: November 28th to December 20th How to Participate: Tune In: Watch the 9pm News on Fox 21 during the promotion period. Code Word: Each night, a special code word will be announced. Email Entry: Once you see the code word, email it to happyholidays@kqdsfox21.tv. Submission Deadline: You have until 6am the…

Free Minnesota state park entry November 28th

DULUTH, Minn. — Enjoy free entrance to Minnesota state parks and recreation areas on Friday, Nov. 28 The DNR offers fours Free Park Days a year, where vehicle fees to all 73 state parks and recreation areas are waived. “After Thanksgiving celebrations, we encourage friends and family to get outside and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature,” said Ann…

20th Annual Gobble Gallop raises nearly 10K for Safe Haven

DULUTH, Minn. — The 20th Annual Gobble Gallop had runners working up a Thanksgiving appetite. Hosted by Duluth Running Company this annual staple brings thousands together to kick off Thanksgiving Day. The run supports the Safe Haven Shelter and resources center. This year they raised nearly 10 thousand dollars in sponsorships and donations. The Gobble gallop features a variety of…

Bentleyville back open after storm damage

Bentleyville re-opens(credit: Bentleyville) DULUTH, Minn. — Bentleyville is set to open Thursday evening after it was temporarily closed due to damage sustained in Tuesday evening’s storm. Crews came together on Thanksgiving morning to repair what was damaged. SEE PREVIOUS: Bentleyville to close Wednesday night following storm damage Bentleyville will be open  5–9 PM. Categories: Community, Minnesota, News, News – Latest…

Winter storm brings relief for snowmobilers

DULUTH, Minn. — As the freshly fallen powder hits the ground, snowmobilers across the Northland are gearing up to hit the trails. Many groups, like the Hermantown Night Riders, are preparing to conduct a final sweep of the trails this weekend. This helps keep the paths smooth and clear of debris, which is crucial after snowstorms. The trails are set…

Surfers spend the snow day catching some waves

DULUTH, Minn.– During a snow day, you may find people outside making snowmen, and snow angels. But for some people, they’re hoping to do something a little more adventurous. All around Brighton beach and French River Wayside, handfuls of surfers kept busy catching some waves. Before hitting the water, they make sure to have good wetsuits, leashes for boards, and…

Lutsen expects to open first runs of the season Friday

Lutsen Skiing LUTSEN, Min. – The team at Lutsen Mountains expect the first runs of the season to open on Friday, November 28, 2025. They say the expected snow over Thanksgiving should be enough to open a few runs. In a news release, “For opening day, our plan is to operate Raptor Express along with the Flapjack Conveyor, giving us a blend…

Bentleyville to close Wednesday night following storm damage

DULUTH, Minn. — Bentleyville’s ‘Tour of Lights’ will be closed Wednesday night due to damage sustained in Tuesday evening’s storm. According to their Facebook, they will remain closed while crews work to assess and repair the damage. They state this is for the safety of their guests, volunteers, and staff. Bentleyville storm damage. Officials with Bentleyville say repairs will start…

City of Duluth snowplow drivers say they’re ready for first major snowfall

DULUTH, Minn. — With snowplows officially out on Duluth roads assisting Twin Ports commuters, there’s some interesting science that goes along with the first plowable snowfall. While the snow has been few and far between so far during the season, the noticeable lack of snowfall has helped plow drivers be extra ready for whatever comes their way. “The city takes…

Stempathy Career Fair inspires middle schoolers

DULUTH, Minn. — Ordean East Middle Schoolers are getting inspired at the STEMpathy Career Fair. The career fair aims to connect the students with professionals in the science, technology, engineering, and math fields. The event showcases diverse STEM career pathways, allowing students to explore career options, learn about educational pathways, and see how these fields contribute to the community’s economic…

Volunteers at the DECC preparing for Thanksgiving buffet

DULUTH, Minn.– The biggest Thanksgiving dinner in the Northland is currently receiving it’s finishing touches. The DECC’s free Thanksgiving meal is staffed by volunteers from the college of St. Scholastica, Minnesota Power, and Mid Coast Catering. They’re preparing more than 2,200 pounds of turkey and mashed potatoes, 500 gallons of gravy, and 100 pounds of stuffing. The team is ready…

Kirby Board Program at UMD kicks off Turkey Eggstravaganza

DULUTH, Minn.– UMD students are burning off some pre-holiday steam, because the Kirby Board Program brought back its ‘Turkey Eggstravaganza’. The annual hunt began four years ago to get students into some holiday fun. 40 little turkeys are scattered around campus, waiting to be found. If students can’t find a turkey, they’re also holding a hand turkey contest. Hand turkey…

Chester Bowl prepping to have new building by ’26-’27 winter season

DULUTH, Minn. — We could finally be seeing a new chalet at Chester Bowl come next winter. The Chester Bowl team are finalizing design plans, and they intend to start contract bidding in February. Once they award the contractor and close for the winter season on March 13th, construction can finally start rolling. It’ll be about a six-month project, so…

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas coming to Duluth

DULUTH, Min. – Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis is back in Duluth.  The holiday tradition for 4-decades features their distinctive Mannheim sound. They’ll be playing Wednesday, December 17 at 7:00pm in the DECC Symphony Hall. FOX21 talked to Roxanne Layton, who plays percussion and recorder for the band. She’s very proud their sound and the whole show experience.  People with varying…

CHUM distributing 300 Thanksgiving dinners throughout the week

DULUTH, Minn.– Since June, CHUM has been planning and organizing their plan to give over 300 Northlanders a Thanksgiving dinner. Around fifteen volunteers gathered at our Saviors Lutheran Church for the distribution. Most of their canned goods came from donations from churches and schools around the area. Each family will receive a turkey, stuffing, potatoes, canned fruits and veggies, and…

Die Hard part of Zeitgeist’s holiday film selection

Die Hard movie poster DULUTH, Min. – Zeitgeist has announced their holiday film line-up. The Muppet Christmas Carol will have four showings between November 29 and December 7. It’s A Wonderful Life will get three weekend showings between December 13 and 21. Scrooged will have a single showing on December 16. Die Hard will have its sole opportunity to save…

Hermantown grad awarded 2025 Mike Colalillo Medal of Honor Scholarship

Ely Young DUUTH, Min. – Ely Young of Hermantown has been awarded the 2025 Mike Colalillo Medal of Honor Scholarship. The honor comes from the St. Louis County Historical Society. Young wrote his winning essay about his great aunt, Shirley Hedin (nee, Armstrong), who appeared on the cover of LIFE Magazine in 1943 as part of the Women’s Land Army….

Thanksgiving meals and buffets in the greater Twin Ports area

DULUTH, Minn. — Various Thanksgiving meals available both free and paid. Free Thanksgiving Meals St. Scholastica Annual Thanksgiving Meal at the DECC – Thursday, Nov. 27 from 11am to 3pm Free dinner for anyone in the community Turkey dinner with homemade mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, vegetables, dinner roll, and cake for dessert DECC — Lake Superior Ballroom Free parking…

UMD Rocketry performs static motor test

DULUTH, Minn. — After months of hard work, dedication, and teamwork, members of UMD Bulldog Rocketry finally had their moment, putting their brand-new rocket motor to the test before their competition in June. “We do this for our competition in order to prove that our rocket, that the motor that we make ourselves will perform nominally and without any catastrophic…

More than 300 community members gather for Epilepsy Awareness Month

DULUTH, Minn. — More than 300 community members gathered at the Great Lakes Aquarium on the evening of Saturday, Nov. 22, during National Epilepsy Awareness Month. The event, hosted by the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota, featured a catered dinner, arts and crafts, and opportunities for people in the epilepsy community to connect. More than 55,000 Minnesotans live with epilepsy. Epilepsy…

Bentleyville Tour of Lights powers on for 22nd season

DULUTH, Minn. – The Christmas spirit has come alive at Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth for the 22nd- annual Bentleyville Tour of Lights. The tour is America’s largest free walk-through lighting display. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived by helicopter to flip the lights on Saturday night. Bentleyville shines bright with more than five-million lights, including a 128-foot LED tree that…

Iron Range film Small Town Girl releases its theme song

Small Town Girl Poster DULUTH, Min. – The film “Small Town Girl” now has a theme song. Director Bill Cooper made the announcement in an e-mail message. Cooper had previously announced that Brian Bryson would be working on music for the production. Now the song “Rudy” by Bryson has been released. The song of about one and a half minutes….