Community

Technology Specialist Talks Back-to-School Gadgets

DULUTH, Minn. – Summer vacation is coming to an end in a few weeks and students will be heading back to school. Verizon Wireless Solutions Specialist Rachel Agurkis visited FOX 21 this morning to talk about must-have technology for students. Google Home: Students can ask the device homework questions. Fitbit Alta: This is a great accessory for student athletes. Track…

New Developments Help Provide Animal Enrichment

Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth is Building a New Catio and Dog Recreation Area

DULUTH, Minn. – Stepping outside or lounging on the deck is something we humans take for granted. Now, hundreds of furry friends will soon have the chance to spend more time in the fresh air at Animal Allies Humane Society. “I can’t wait until it’s done, it’s going to be beautiful! I think the cats and kittens are going to…

Fond du Lac Band Asks For Answers; What’s Next?

Ancient Burial Ground Unearthed By MnDOT Road Project

Duluth, Minn. This Spring, Native American grave sites were disturbed at a MnDOT Highway 23 work site. The Fond du Lac band called for some kind of resolution. Tuesday MnDOT held an open house for the community members affected by the issue to speak out. Months after the department of transportation mistake the construction site remains at a standstill and…

Carlton Residents Vote “No” On Referendum

CARLTON, Minn.- Carlton residents casted votes in a special election Tuesday. They voted “No” 1202 to 475 “Yes” votes not to approve the issuance of $23.6 million dollars in bonds to construct a grades 6-12 addition at the South Terrance site and make improvements to the existing building. By 11 a.m. Tuesday morning close to 300 people had turned out…

Firefighters help fight muscular dystrophy with Fill The Boot events

Firefighters are spread across the town, collecting money for youth with muscular dystrophy

DULUTH, Minn. – Firefighters in Duluth are spread out at busy intersections across town for the Fill the Boot event, which raises money for children with muscular dystrophy. “We take it seriously,” Duluth firefighter Aaron Bujold said.  “Its for a really good cause… Most of the people we deal with are pretty charitable. We get a good outcome out here.”…

Paddlers Alliance Holds Free Paddle Day

Community Paddle Days lets youth groups and the community experience paddling for free

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland Paddlers Alliance is continuing to help the community get out on the water. Last week, they helped folks get out on some stand up paddle boards, and this Tuesday, they set people up with canoes out at Boy Scout Landing. It’s all provided free of charge, for anyone of any skill level. “It’s all very…

First Duluth Boat Completes Yacht Race

The Eight-Person Crew Finished In Just Over Three Days

DULUTH, Minn. – Sailors on the Trans–Superior International Yacht Race are still making their way into the Twin Ports. Tuesday saw the first Duluth vessel cross the finish line. Papa Paucho II cruised into port a little after 2 p.m. The Duluth boat had a crew of eight. They finished the race in just over three days. “Lots of heavy…

Duluth Unveils Street Repair Plan

Mayor's Proposal Calls for a .5% Sales Tax Increase

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth streets are a problem for virtually every driver. However Mayor Emily Larson thinks she has a solution. “I am announcing a referendum for voters this fall, for a 0.5% sales tax dedicated entirely to fund our Streets Improvement Program,” said Mayor Larson, while unveiling her new plan Wednesday. According to Mayor Larson the sales tax increase…

T-Shirts Designed to Raise Mental Illness Awareness

Steven Gold Selling "Mental Illness Sucks" Shirts to Encourage People to Address Issues

DULUTH, Minn. – Statistics say you or someone close to you battles some form of mental illness. One Duluth man wants to raise awareness. Steven Gold came up with the “Mental Illness Sucks” t–shirt as a way to get people talking about a difficult subject. Gold, who’s battled depression since the 10th grade, says getting people to talk about their…

Carlton County Historical Society Invites Public to Watch Historical Movies

The Historical Society is Sorting Through What Movies to Keep

CLOQUET, Minn.- The Carlton County Historical Society is inviting you to join them in watching historical movies. The Historical Society has a few videos and film in their collection. But many of these old films are unmarked, or haven’t been watched in years. So historical society staff members are having a viewing of the movies to decide if they are going…

Cloquet Middle School Getting New Building

The Old School was Around 100 Years Old

DULUTH, Minn.- The old Cloquet Middle School building was almost 100 years old, and was in dire need for an upgrade. After the 50 million dollar referendum was passed and construction began, students are now only weeks away from stepping into the new building. The school has an upgraded pool facility, gymnasium, classrooms, and open learning spaces. The new school…

NE BBQ and Smokehouse Open in Cloquet

BBQ Lovers Have Been Waiting for 2 Years

CLOQUET, Minn.- The North East Barbecue and Smoke House in Cloquet is finally open. BBQ lovers in the area have been waiting for almost 2 years for the restaurant to open, and earlier this month, their wishes were answered. The menu includes smoked meats, burgers, sandwiches, and even offers vegetarian options like black bean burgers. “We’re really determined to make…

Thousands of Ship Documents Archived, Available for Public Research

Northland Uncovered: Fraser Shipping Documents

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The shipping industry is a business impacting the entire Northland. About four years ago, Fraser Shipyards donated thousands of ship drawings dating back to the 1890s to UW-Superior for archiving and research. Now, librarians are finishing up that task. “They’re more works of art than anything else,” Senior Project Assistant Dara Fillmore described of the donated documents….

Fuse Duluth Takes Networking Outdoors

Young Professionals Group Hosts First-ever Disc Golf Tournament

DULUTH, Minn. – This week Fuse Duluth is taking networking outdoors. The organization, designed by the Duluth Chamber of Commerce to attract and retain young talent to the area, is hosting a disc golf tournament on Thursday, August 10. This is taking place at the Miller Creek Disc Golf Course from noon to 5 p.m. Each of the course’s nine…

Trans-Superior International Yacht Races Finishes in Duluth

The multi-day race starts in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

DULUTH, Minn. – Sailors racing in the Trans–Superior International Yacht Race are starting to sail into the Twin Ports. About 35 boats set sail from Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and took part in the multi–day race that takes them through the center of Lake Superior, and finishes right here in Duluth. “The best part of sailing, especially distance racing, is…

New art exhibit at Zeitgeist honors artist’s late sister

Gabriel Christopher Dee's exhibit runs through Labor Day

DULUTH, Minn. – A new art exhibit is on display at the Zeitgeist Arts Building in Downtown Duluth. Gabriel Christopher Dee’s exhibit is called Muse: Images of Women. The artwork heavily feature’s the artist’s sister, who recently lost her battle with pancreatic cancer. He says that working with his sister was a good way to remain connected to her. “While…

“Wolves At Our Door” Teaches Minnesotans Wolf Facts

The Traveling Outreach Program Stopped in Two Harbors on Monday

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – People in Two Harbors had the chance to learn all about wolves at the International Wolf Center’s program, “Wolves At Our Door.” The traveling outreach program helps Minnesotans understand wolves and the problems associated with them so they can learn to co-exist with the wild canines around them. “This is the animal that lives near me…

National Lighthouse Day Celebrated at Split Rock

Since 1989, August 7th Is Used to Recognize the Importance of Lighthouses

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – August 7th is National Lighthouse Day, when we pay tribute to the lighthouses along our shorelines. National Lighthouse Day is celebrated to honor the passing of the Lighthouse Act in 1789. That law put lighthouses under federal government control. Since 1989, today’s date has been used to recognize the importance of lighthouses to our country. At…

Carlton Residents Voting in a Special Election Tuesday

Community Residents Will Vote on Carlton School District Referendum

CARLTON, Minn.- Carlton residents will be casting votes in a special election Tuesday. There will be two questions on the ballot. One is for renovating South Terrace Elementary School and building a new High school. The second question is for building an auditorium, outdoor spaces, and other improvements for those schools. “Carlton high school was built in 1916, and South…

It’s National Purple Heart Day

It's an Honor Given to Soldiers Wounded or Killed in Battle

  DULUTH, Minn.- The Purple Heart is a medal awarded to members of the United States Military who are wounded or killed in combat. Bradley Bennett of Duluth served our country during the Vietnam War. While at war, Bennett was hit by shrapnel through his arm and ankle during a battle. He says the wounds were relatively minor, and after…

Students with Autism Attend Creative Workshop

The Event Has Been Going on for 2 Years in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.0- Students on the autism spectrum and members of the creative community worked together for an art workshop. Islands of Brilliance, a non-profit organization, is using the Hailey Sault office in the Dewitt Seitz building in Duluth to help people with autism use their creativity to make art. The students are paired one on one with art mentors to…

7 West Taphouse Opening Second Duluth Location Next Week

The Taphouse Has Expanded to a Location Along Maple Grove Road

DULUTH, Minn. – Northlanders will soon have a new location to stop for a burger and a brew in the Twin Ports. The owner of 7 West Taphouse tells FOX 21 he and his staff should be ready to open their new Duluth location Monday, August 14. Since May, crews have been busy turning the former Nevada Bob’s Golf space…

Kids on the Autism Spectrum Take a Ride on Thomas

The Event is the First of its Kind

DULUTH, Minn.- Children on the autism spectrum had a chance to enjoy a Day out With Thomas. Children with autism can be sensitive to loud noises, big crowds, and too much going on all at once. The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, in collaboration with other organizations is offering a Sensory Friendly Day Out with Thomas. Children with Autism had the…

30 Acts Expected for Bayfront Blues Festival

Coffee Conversation: 29th Annual Bayfront Blues Festival

DULUTH, Minn. – Music will be filling Bayfront Festival Park this weekend for the 29th Annual Bayfront Blues Festival. Cyndee Parsons, the Media Relations Director, says out of the 30 acts expected there will be something for everyone. The festival starts up on Friday, August 11 and runs through Sunday, August 13. Following the performances on the main stages, a…

Families Enjoy St. Luke’s Family Summer Bash

The Event is Sponsored by St. Lukes

DULUTH, Minn.- Families enjoyed quality time together at the St. Luke’s Family Summer Bash The event, held at Bayfront Park, had fun for people of all ages including yard games and water activities, princess and superhero appearances, and family races. “It’s a great chance for families to get out, be active and do fun activities together. Make some memories and…

Studies Show ‘Babies Need Boxes’

Studies Show Finland has one of the Lowest Infant Mortality Rates in the World

DULUTH, Minn. – For year, babies have been falling asleep in boxes. Closer to home, one Minnesota mother caught onto the trend back in 2015. Since then, proper education of the practice has been spread to various communities across the country. “I think it would have been fantastic,” said Lori Sawnson, St. Luke’s Birthing Center Nurse Manager. Helpful hands, for…

Thomas the Tank Engine Entertains at the Duluth Depot

More Than 10,000 Visitors Spent Time with the Famous Train This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. – More than ten thousand people got tickets this weekend to spend time with Thomas the Tank Engine at the Duluth Depot. For the first time, Thomas is joined by his friend Percy. Kids and their parents took twenty minute rides along the Lake Superior shore, and also had a blast with a Thomas themed carnival. “He woke…

Duluth for Clean Water Asking for Polymet Evidentiary Hearing

Organizers Will Send Letter to Governor, DNR Next Week

DULUTH, Minn. – Discussions for and against a proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine in Northeast Minnesota continues. On Sunday, a Duluth environmental group held an event to gain support. According to Duluth for Clean Water officials, decisions could be made later this year on whether permits to mine are granted to the proposed PolyMet project. Before that happens, some in Duluth…

Duluthians Meet with Students from Sister City in Japan

It's Part of a 2 Year Student Exchange Program

DULUTH, Minnl.- It was a reunion for Hinano Kurokawa of Ohara and Emma Stottleman of Duluth. Emma visited Ohara Isumi city in Chiba Japan last year, where she stayed with Hinano’s family. Now, Emma’s and other families in Duluth have the opportunity to host students from Duluth’s sister city for a few days. “Their hospitality was incredible and they were thrilled…

Kids Try on Fall’s Newest Fashions at Fashion Show Parade in Younkers

The Children Had the Chance to Choose Their Own Outfits for the Event

DULUTH, Minn.- Kids and parents had the chance to get a look at this year’s fall fashion at the Annual Back to School fashion Show at Younkers in Duluth. Children tried on some of the newest looks at the department store and participated in the fashion show as models, walking around the store in outfits they picked out for themselves….

Superior High School Senior Puts on Car Show at Billings Park Days for Senior Project

Money Raised During the Show Will be Donated to Charity

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Celebrations for Billings Park Days started Friday, and continued on Saturday. Friends and Neighbors enjoyed chalk art on the streets, rummage sales, and food stands in Billings Park. but today’s celebrations also included a car show, organized by Brenden Penney  a Senior from Superior High School, as part of his senior project. “My family has been involved in…

Former Clyde Iron Works Employees Come Together for Reunion

Some of the People Hadn't Seen Each Other in 30 Years

DULUTH, Minn.- Clyde Iron Works had some special visitors come through the restaurant Saturday. It’s been 30 years since the employees of Clyde shut down operations in the Lincoln Park Building, and Saturday, some of the employees came back for a reunion. “It’s amazing how many people you look at, and you haven’t seen them in 30 years and you…

Duluth Businesses Getting Attention from Twin Cities Publications

It's Not Just the Locals Loving Our Flavors

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth is a tourism city, and each year thousands visit to spend time in the city on the shores of the Lake Superior.   That’s why it’s no surprise that many of Duluth’s local businesses are highlighted by Publications in the twin cities as great places to eat, drink, or play. Perk Place Coffee House and Bakery is one…

UPDATE: Missing Couple Found Dead

Ron and Mary Tarnowski Were Found in the Brookston Area

BROOKSTON, Minn. – The search for Ron and Mary Tarnowski had a tragic ending. The couple, missing since July 29th, was found Saturday by a U.S. Border Patrol helicopter west of U.S. Highway 2 near Brookston. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is investigating, though foul play isn’t suspected. The Tarnowskis were last seen in Duluth July 29th at the…

New Strategies In Place For Missing Duluth Couple Case

Command Center And Agencies State Wide Are Now On The Case

Saturday August 5th, It was day 8 of the missing Duluth couple Ron and Mary Tarnowski. Saturday hundreds gathered at the Tarnowski home in hopes that a search party would bring them home. “We are not giving up hope. We’re keeping our heads held high, we’re going to be strong, and we’re going to bring mom and dad home. But…

Billings Park Days celebrates community

The events feature fireworks, car shows and much more

SUPERIOR, Wisc. -Billings Park Days is underway in Superior. The weekend celebration features fireworks as well as a showing of the movie The Sandlot on Friday. Saturday will have a car show, dog show, and some rummage sales, all to celebrate neighbors meeting neighbors. “It’s a great community event,” organizer Keith Kern said. “It’s great to get the community together….

First ever Bowfest kicks off at Mont Du Lac

Hundreds of archers are hitting the targets for the weekend of fun

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Archers, ready your bows. It’s the first ever Bowfest out at Mont Du Lac this weekend. Hundreds of archers are making their way to the Mont Du Lac Resort for a weekend of target shooting, live music and fun. Organizers say it’s a good way to celebrate the sport. “This right here is a good physical activity,”…

Lighthouse Days shows off historical importance of the unique structures

The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center has many activities to celebrate lighthouses.

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend, The Lake Superior Maritime Museum celebrates lighthouses. Several days of activities are planned for the weekend, designed to teach visitors the role lighthouses played in keeping mariners safe on the water. “As technology has progressed, more and more lighthouses are being decommissioned and we don’t want to loose that important history,” museum director Denise Wolvin…

‘Catio’ and Recreational Area Being Built at Animal Allies

Through Generous Donations and Fundraising, Cost is Covered for the Construction

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth is looking to make sure their furry friends feel more at home during their stay at the shelter. Construction on a new ‘catio,’ a patio for cats, has started. Billman Construction Inc. of Duluth is doing the construction. Work is also underway on a third dog recreational area. Staff and volunteers…

First Annual Bowfest to take Place at Mont du Lac

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Although it’s not quite hunting season, archers will be working hard in the wild this weekend. It’s all for the First Annual Bowfest at Mont du Lac Resort. Here’s a rundown of what to expect this weekend: BowFest has three Archery loops – all open at noon Friday, 10:00 a.m. Saturday and 10:00 a.m. Sunday. Prizes will…

City On The Hill Music Fest

Setting Up For A Big Weekend

Duluth, Minn. Set up for the City on the Hill Music Festival is underway at Bayfront Park. Organizers say ticket sells are at an all–time high. They’re expecting over 5,000 thousand people both Friday and Saturday night. The concert consists of Christian bands that bring their up lifting songs for all to enjoy. “It’s a chance for families to get…

Billings Park Days kicks off this weekend

Car shows, movie night, fireworks and more.

SUPERIOR, Minn. – Billings Park is getting ready for a fun celebration this weekend. Billings Park Days in Superior is this on Friday and Saturday. The celebration features fireworks on Friday, as well as a showing of the movie “The Sandlot” on the baseball diamond. Saturday features a car show, dog show, and more than 30 rummage sales. “It’s a…

‘Night Of Mayhem’ Coming To Proctor Speedway Saturday

Reverse races, trailer races, and bus races and more

PROCTOR, Minn. – Chaos is coming to the Proctor Speedway this weekend. It’s the Mid–Summer Night of Mayhem this Saturday. The event features all kinds of destructive fun, from reverse races, trailer races, and the crowd favorite – the bus races. “There’s going to be buses rolling over, there’s going to be cars smashing into everything, there’s going to be…

Thomas the Tank Engine brings a friend to the Northland

Percy makes an appearance this year for Thomas's day out.

DULUTH, Minn. – A friendly face has made his way back to the Northland. Thomas the Tank Engine has made his way to The Depot in Duluth for the “Day out with Thomas” event this weekend. It features all kinds of family friendly activities, and this year, Thomas even brought a friend with him. ” said that Duluth was his…

Search Continues for Missing Couple

Ronald and Mary Tarnowski Were Last Seen July 29th

DULUTH, Minn. – Ronald and Mary Tarnowski were last seen Saturday, July 29th. On Wednesday, their son asked for the public’s help. “Any help to get my Mom and Dad home would be more than welcome,” saind Karl Tarnowski. For Karl, his wife Bev, his brother Kurt, and the rest of their family, not knowing where Ron and Mary are…

Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive to Help Low Income Students in Two Harbors

The drive will help the 40 percent of students in the Lake Superior School District who qualify as low income

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – With the school year fast approaching many kids will be heading to the store to buy school supplies, but for many low income families these expenses can be too much, leaving students at a disadvantage when classes begin. The Head of the Lakes United Way is teaming up with other local organizations to help kids start…

Emily’s Eatery on Knife River Now Open Along Scenic Drive

One of the most popular menu items so far has been the walleye and chips

KNIFE RIVER, Minn. – A popular stop along the North Shore Scenic Drive is back in business. Emily’s Eatery on Knife River opened its doors to the public last week. The restaurant closed down two years ago, but was recently purchased by a group of local investors. After a few months of remodeling, hiring a new staff, and creating a…