Community

Strawberry Picking Kicks off for the Season

Dozens of berry lovers are out picking Spectrum Farm Strawberries on the first day of the season.

CARLTON, Minn. – Strawberry picking season is finally underway at Spectrum Farm Strawberries in Carlton. The season is starting about a week late this year due to inclement weather in the spring, and on Wednesday, they finally opened for the public to pick the berries. “They are fabulous right out of the field they are sweet they are juicy they…

Pickleball Popularity Increasing in the Northland

The sport has only been around Duluth for a few years, but fans are flocking to learn how to play it.

DULUTH, Minn. – Have you ever wondered what the midway point is between ping pong and tennis? Well that would be pickleball. “It’s fun. It’s a good exercise. You don’t realize you’re getting a good workout. New ownership took over and we wanted to incorporate not just tennis, but more indoor sports for Duluth,” DISC manager Joe Jurich said. “A…

Volunteers Remove Harmful Wild Parsnip from West Waterfront Trail

Invasive species can cause burns to skin and fur.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth is asking for your help to rid the area of the invasive species Wild Parsnip. The plant emits a sap that can cause burns on human skin and pets. This is not your run of the mill, vegetable parsnip. It looks like any flower. The Duluth Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area, or CISMA, gathered volunteers by the…

Car Show Brings Classic Rides, CHUM School Supplies

Along with cars, attendants can donate a backpack of school supplies for CHUM to distribute.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth’s Sidewalk Days has kicked off on West Superior Street as the annual Car Show rolled in not only to show off, but also get kids ready for school. Vintage, unique, and fixed up rides came from all over the Northland for people to admire on Superior Street. At the Kolar Chevrolet tent, you can admire new cars…

MN Adult and Teen Challenge Center Expands with Grant

After purchasing a new apartment building, a grant from Minnesota Power is allowing the center to expand.

DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge received a grant from Minnesota Power to help expand its Duluth Hillside location. The addiction treatment facility on East Second Street will now include an old apartment building right next door. The Center purchased the building back in March. A $10,000 grant from Minnesota Power will help them renovate it, to increase the…

Silver Bay Celebrates “Bay Days” Summer Festival This Weekend

Bay Days is Happening July 12 - 14 in Silver Bay, Minnesota

SILVER BAY, Minn. – Two small communities along the North Shore will come together this weekend to celebrate “Bay Days.” The three day festival includes food, fun, and entertainment. Events kick off Friday with the annual Bay Days Parade starting at 6:00 p.m. An evening of family friendly activities will proceed the parade, followed by a blast of fireworks around…

Midday Update 7-10-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ryan Johnson for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 10, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, ryan johnson, weather

Over 700 Dogs Dart into the DECC Starting Thursday

The Duluth Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show is Happening July 11 - 14

DULUTH, Minn. – The city of Duluth is going to the dogs July 11 – 14. More than 700 four legged friends and their owners will dart into the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) for the annual Duluth Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show. Organizers say the event brings a boost to the local economy, and smiles to the faces…

Morning Update 7-10-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ryan Johnson for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 10, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, ryan johnson, weather

Haze from Canadian Fires Moves Out with Wind and Rain

Rainfall clear smoke up, and wind moves it south.

DULUTH, Minn.- Since last weekend, fires in Canada have been burning and sending smoke into the air, which the wind blew into the Northland creating a haze throughout the sky. Officials with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) said the worst of the smoke filtered into the Southern parts of the state. However, it could still be irritable for some…

All About Monarchs at Superior Public Library

Duluth Monarch Buddies come to teach about monarchs and milkweed.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Kids at the Superior Public Library got an up close look at Monarch Butterflies. Duluth Monarch Buddies came to teach summer camps about the orange insects and how their populations are in danger. Kids could take home milkweed seeds to grow the plants that monarchs feed on to increase their numbers in the Northland. “It’s always nice to…

UDAC Opens New Bullyan Center

Organization opens new building after $3 million donation.

DULUTH, Minn.- UDAC is celebrating the grand opening of a new building in Duluth’s Spirit Valley neighborhood. The new building was made possible from a $3 million grant from Joseph and Nancy Bullyan, of Bullyan RV in Duluth, who the new building is named after. The Joseph and Nancy Bullyan Center was thought up after the Bullyans toured the old…

Duluth Sidewalk Days Traffic Advisory

DULUTH, Minn. – The following traffic advisories have been issued ahead of Duluth’s Downtown Sidewalk Days Festival and Street Dances which will take place July 10 – July 13. Sidewalk Days: July 10 – July 12 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Superior Street from Lake Avenue to 5th Avenue West will close to vehicle traffic each day. “No…

Midday Update 7-9-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ryan Johnson for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, July 9, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, midday update, News, weather

Sidewalk Days, Movies in the Park Kick off This Week in Duluth

Sidewalk Days is Happening Wednesday, July 10 through Saturday, July 13

DULUTH, Minn. – The Greater Downtown Council is hosting the 2019 Sidewalk Days Festival Wednesday, July 10 through Saturday, July 13. Despite Superior Street reconstruction, the festivities will continue with dozens of deals, live entertainment, a car show, food vendors and more. This year Sidewalk Days will encompass five city blocks along Superior Street from Lake Avenue to 5th Avenue…

Morning Update 7-9-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ryan Johnson for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, July 9, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, weather

Taking Down Bayfront After Five-Day Concert Run

Local tent rental business feeling positive effects of Bayfront week.

DULUTH, Minn.- After a successful five-day stretch of concerts at Bayfront Festival Park, the Park is returning to its resting state. Crews with local business Doucette’s Special Events, Party, and Tent Rental were at Bayfront Monday disassembling the tents used during the shows. They say 4th of July week was a great boost for their business. “For this week I…

Record High Lake Levels Good For Shipping, Bad for Shoreline

Experts say more water is better for carrying shipping cargo, but more damaging to shoreline especially with storms.

DULUTH, Minn.- Water levels on Lake Superior have been in an upward trend, breaking record averages for July, still months away from the Fall when they’re expected to rise. As of Monday Lake Superior sits at 603.22 ft for the month of July. It is 14 inches above the norm for the month. According the Associate Director of Outreach with…

Midday Update 7-8-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, July 8, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, July 8, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather

Coffee Conversation: Saddle Up! 66th Annual Spooner Rodeo Starts Thursday

Click Below for a Full List of Events Happening During the 66th Annual Spooner Rodeo

SPOONER, Wis. – The Spooner Rodeo kicks off this Thursday, July 11 with the Coca-Cola Family/Youth night starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Washburn County Fairgrounds in Spooner. This year Spooner Rodeo Queen Faith Ciesielski and Spooner Rodeo Princess Abby Droessler stopped by the studio to let us know what fun events will be taking place this year at the…

Get Hopped Up at Caribou Highlands in Lutsen Friday, Saturday

The 9th Annual Hopped Up on Caribou Festival is Happening Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13 in Lutsen, Minnesota

LUTSEN, Minn. – Beer and cider connoisseurs have the chance to indulge responsibly Friday, July 13 and Saturday, July 14  during the 9th annual Caribou Highlands Lodge Hopped Up Caribou Festival. The event features an expansive list of craft brewers, live music and variety of activities. Several new breweries will make their festival debut this year joining some of the…

Morning Update 7-8-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, July 8, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, July 8, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, weather

Nostalgic 90s Crafts at Hucklebeary

Craft store hosted 90s Craft Party.

DULUTH, Minn.- Some nostalgic 90s kids got crafty with their memories at Hucklebeary in Duluth today. The store hosted a 90s craft party. Those who signed up made desk accessories out of old 90s crafts like melted beads and weebles, all while enjoying a lunchables lunch and listening to 90s jams. “It’s good to reminisce and remember the good times…

Five Nights of Bayfront Boosts Business in Canal Park

Restaurants and Hotels experiencing an increase in sales as concert-goers flock after shows.

DULUTH, Minn.- All the events at Bayfront the last few days have been lucrative for Canal Park businesses. The staff at 310 pub tells us even though they’ve been working through the concerts, they enjoy hearing stories about the shows from customers who come in afterward for a drink. “Business is booming we definitely had quite a lot of business…

Five Nights of Fun at Bayfront Wrapping Up

Longest run of concerts in venue's history set to bring in sizable revenue.

DULUTH, Minn.- Music lovers packed Bayfront Festival Park for the final time to hear the bands 311 and Dirty Heads Sunday night. The show concludes an impressive 5-night, back-to-back run of festivals and concerts at Bayfront, the largest run in the venue’s history. “About 35,000 total over the course of those 5 days have set foot through Bayfront Festival Park,”…

Duluth Firefighters Save Young Deer Trapped in Fence

Firefighters helped the fawn escape.

DULUTH, Minn.- “Bambi” was spotted on the UMD campus and needed a little help from Duluth Fire Department. The fawn was found trapped in a fence. College police called the fire department to assist in letting the baby deer free. Firefighters said they could see how scared the animal was, but it was an easy call to take care of….

Fans Enjoy Bayfront for the Trampled by Turtles Festival

Close to 10 thousand people are expected to attend this year's festival and concert.

DULUTH, Minn.- Northland–grown and internationally known folk–band ‘Trampled by Turtles” has quite the following, thousands of which spent the day gathered at Bayfront Park in Duluth to hear them play at one of the city’s biggest events of the Summer. Trampled by Turtles is arguably the most well known musical group from the Northland. The folk–rock band makes a point to…

Battle is On at Superior Paintball’s Junkyard Paintball

A look inside the battlefield over at Superior Paintball

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Combine capture the flag, and paintball, and throw it in a junkyard. That’s what dozens of paintballers got to experience at Superior Paintball Saturday. Once the whistle blows to begin the round, you better keep an eye out for your opponent and hope your aim is on target. Players use bunkers to shield themselves, or even crawl on…

After Dropping ‘Midgets’ Wisconsin’s Hurley High Gets New Mascot

After dropping controversial nickname Hurley High School decides on new mascot.

HURLEY, Wis. (AP)- Six months after dropping its controversial nickname, a northern Wisconsin high school has a new moniker. According to Wisconsin Public Radio, Hurley High School will now be known as the “Northstars.” Back in January FOX 21 covered the Hurley School Board’s unanimous decision to change the controversial mascot. They said in a statement: “In a school district…

Law Enforcement Cracking Down on Drunk Boating in Northland

Crackdown is part of Operation Dry Water Campaign.

MINNESOTA-  Safety on the water will be a top priority this weekend. According to authorities, drunk boating is drunk driving. Law enforcement will be increasing patrols on Northland waters as part of their yearly Operation Dry Water campaign. From 2013 to 2017 alcohol was a factor in 26 boating deaths and 46 injuries on Minnesota waters. Meanwhile Wisconsin was the…

Man Dies of Natural Causes in Lake Vermillion

St. Louis County is investigating the incident.

ELY, Minn.- A man is pronounced dead Tuesday after trying to get back on his watercraft on Lake Vermillion, about 30 miles west of Ely. A resident saw 58-year-old Darrell Pfannenstein of St. Joseph struggling to get back on his jet ski in shallow water. The resident offered help but Pfannenstein declined. Later he was seen walking towards shore and…

Duluth Gets a Boost in Tourism this Fourth of July

DULUTH, Minn. – Fourth of July can be one of the busiest times of the year for Duluth. It draws thousands of visitors from across the country. And the increase in tourism can have its advantages for the city. Many call Duluth the “go to” place to spend their weekend on a non–holiday. “Well it’s a beautiful city. You have…

SUP, SUP! Gliding On Water

ACTIVE ADVENTURES: North Shore SUP Rents Stand-up Paddle Boards

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — In this week’s Active Adventures we are gliding across the water on a stand up paddle board! North Shore SUP offers cheap rentals for both hourly and for the entire day! Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot chatted with the co-owner Heather on some tips and tricks and why you should try this sport out. Interested? Click here to…

Volunteers Help with Cloquet Fourth Festivities

Volunteers say they're happy to make the event a success.

CLOQUET, Minn.- The 4th of July Festivities in Cloquet were made possible by about 100 volunteers across the 3rd, 4th and 5th. According to one of those volunteers, he is happy to make the holiday fun for everyone. “It helps the 4th of July Committee out and it helps all the volunteers out,” said Chad Erickson, who helped out with…

Wishing America Happy Birthday from Cloquet July 4th Fest

Cloquet hosts longstanding Fourth of July Fest

CLOQUET, Minn.- Veterans Park was packed with Cloquet residents enjoying fair food, live music, and 4th of July fun, despite the wet weather. Red, white and blue flooded the park as everyone put on their patriotic best to celebrate the 4th of July. “I think that people in Cloquet are patriotic and really like their town so they stay here…

Midday Update 7-4-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, July 4, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, July 4, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather

Gordon Gears up to Host 59th Annual Summer Festival

Gordon Good Neighbor Days is Happening July 5 - 7, 2019

GORDON, Wis. – The town of Gordon, Wisconsin is made up of nearly 600 people, but this weekend thousands will arrive to help kick off the summer season. The 59th annual Gordon Good Neighbor Days runs from Friday, July 5 – Sunday, July 7. A full schedule of events is listed below. Six board members work year round the help…

Morning Update 7-4-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, July 4, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, July 4, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, Comunity, Headlines, Local News, morning update, weather

Old Duluth Church Could Become New Duluth Restaurant

Two brothers are working to convert the old Bethany Lutheran Church into a full service restaurant.

DULUTH, Minn.- A new restaurant could be coming to Duluth, in a more unorthodox location. Brothers Chuck and Robert Bagley are working on turning the old Bethany Lutheran Church on the 2300 block of West 3rd Street into a restaurant. They have not decided the menu just yet, though have began amassing kitchen equipment and have their plans laid out….

New Kwik Trip Causing Proctor Small Businesses to Close

Proctor Milk House and Stokke's Meat Market Closing Doors.

DULUTH, Minn.- One Proctor business has closed, and another announced its closure, as the new Duluth Kwik Trip near Proctor undergoes construction. Back in 2017 over 100 Duluth and Proctor residents and business owners packed an open house, opposing the Kwik Trip on Boundary Avenue, for fear of it forcing smaller businesses out. Ultimately Kwik Trip got the land, and…

New Apartment Complex Proposed for Endion Neighborhood

A Public Hearing Will be Held on July 9

DULUTH, Minn. – A new apartment building is being proposed in the 2200 Block of South Street directly next to the Endi apartment complex on London Road. Launch Properties, based out of Minneapolis, says the four to six story apartment building would hold 98 units with roughly 84 interior parking spaces for automobiles, 5 interior motorcycle spaces and 19 additional…

Midday Update 7-3-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 3, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather

Roosevelt, Lincoln, Washington & Jefferson to Visit Superior’s Bong Center

Mount Rushmore, LIVE! is Happening Thursday, July 4 at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – President Teddy Roosevelt is the reason why the Executive Mansion is known as The White House today. This is just one of the fun facts folks will have the chance to learn Thursday, July 4 at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center. Mount Rushmore, LIVE! will feature four living history reenactors that will present the show…

Keeping Fido Calm During Fourth Festivities

A Place for Fido Offers a Variety of Products to Help Keep Animals Calm During Stressful Situations

DULUTH, Minn. – Anxiety medications are flying out the doors of local veterinary clinics and hospitals this week along with other treats, toys, and materials used to keep animals calm as humans prepare to blast off fireworks to celebrate independence. “We do get a lot of anxiety ridden dogs that come in this time of year,” said Jamie Parent, Owner…

2019 Northland Fourth of July Festivities

Events Across the Northland for the 4th of July

Minnesota: Aurora July 3: Quilt Show from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Kids’ Carnival and Amazing Charles Balloon Sculpturist from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. First Annual Eino Koivisto & Terry Koivisto Vintage Car & Motorcycle Show on Main Street from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Evening Patriotic Parade at 5:30 p.m. Live Music: Diamonds & Dreams from 3:30 to…

Morning Update 7-3-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 3, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, weather

Midday Update 7-2-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ryan Johnson for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, July 2, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, ryan johnson, weather

Maritime Improv Crew to Host Performance Saturday at Fitger’s

The Crew Performs in the Spirit of the North Theater at Fitger's in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – “Belly Laughs” is set to light off  fireworks in the Spirit of the North Theater at Fitger’s Saturday, June 6. The Maritime Improv Crew offers a hilarious PG 13 long form improve show once a month in the theater. Shows begin at 7:00 p.m. and end early enough to still get to bed at a decent time!…

Morning Update 7-2-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ryan Johnson for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, July 2, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, Headlines, Local News, morning update, ryan johnson, weather

Knowing Your Neighbors: Brian’s Workshop

Craftsman constructs handmade coasters and trivets while battling Cerebral Palsy.

DULUTH, Minn.- Many people can turn a hobby into a business, but not quite like Brian Bentley has. “I don’t consider it work. Most would say it’s a job, but I don’t consider it work. I enjoy what I do.” You may have seen Bentley at markets or outdoor festivals. Though he may be more recognizable by his products. “People…