Minnesota

Raleigh Academy Block Party Moved Fun Indoors

Annual Block Party Held in Celebration of National Award

DULUTH, Minn.- West Duluth kids were having a blast at Duluth Edison Raleigh Academy on Thursday. The Academy hosted their annual block party, and the rain didn’t stop ’em, as they moved the party inside the school. It was all run by teachers, volunteering their extra time outside of the school day. But they say it’s all worth it to…

Superior Swingin’ Seniors

Senior Connections Hosts First Annual Senior Prom

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Seniors got all dressed up to go to the Prom at UWS on Thursday. But they might not be the seniors you’re expecting. Senior Prom at a University sounds like a rambunctious event for college seniors. But this prom, while equally rambunctious, was all about Senior Citizens. The hoppin’ band and clinking glasses take you back to a…

Light It Up Marquee Fundraiser Hopes to Get West Theater Back on Track

Bob Boone says the redevelopment of the theater will build a sense of community.

DULUTH, Minn. – Work has been underway for years to restore the West Theater in Duluth, but after hitting a few snags the project is over budget. A fundraiser was held to help get the project back on track. Bob Boone of the Duluth Reader is sphere–heading the redevelopment project and he managed a movie theater years ago in Superior. Right now…

Maurices Employees Lend a Helping Hand in the Community

They call it "Our Best Day Ever"

DULUTH, Minn.- Maurices employees are taking a break from the office on Thursday and rolling up their sleeves to work for the community. They call it “Our Best Day Ever” the company spreads out in the city volunteering with more than 20 non–profits. We stopped by the care package assembly at the Maurices headquarters. Workers are teaming up with Blue Star…

Residents, City at a Crossroads over Glenwood Street

Community Meeting at Lester Park Elementary Abuzz with Concerns

DULUTH, Minn.-Lester Park Elementary School was alive after school hours Wednesday. A meeting was held between the city and community members to address traffic concerns with Glenwood street intersecting with Jean Duluth and Snively roads. It appears after numerous speeding tickets, accidents, and even a fatality at that intersection, community members and the city both say enough is enough, but…

Mission Creek Updates from MnDOT

Community Members Voice Concerns at Meeting

DULUTH, Minn.- 387. That was the magic number from the Minnesota Department of Transportation to the community. They say it will take 387 days to finish burial recovery at the grave site unearthed by Mission Creek Bridge Construction. It is the first time they have had a measurable timeline for the project. After burial recovery, crews move to cemetery restoration,…

St. Louis County Employee Files Complaint, Wants Investigation on Commissioner Pete Stauber

Dennis Frazier believes Stauber is using his platform as a county commissioner to run for higher office.

DULUTH, Minn.  – A 30–year employee with St. Louis County is calling for an investigation into Commissioner Pete Stauber who is running for the 8th Congressional race on the republican side. Dennis Frazier believes Stauber is using his platform as a county commissioner to run for higher office. One example, Frazier says happened at an opioid round table in August where Stauber identified himself as a 8th District Congressional candidate….

Stella Maris Academy Receives Million Dollar Gift from Duluth Native

The mission at Stella Maris Academy is to teach students to lead, love and serve.

DULUTH, Minn. -The staff at Stella Maris Academy say this donation gives the school a stable financial base to grow future academic programs. Ninety-one-year-old Lorraine Casshie is the million–dollar donor who died last July. But in her will Lorraine desired for money to be given to the catholic schools in Duluth. Staff from Stella Maris Academy at the Holy Rosary School tell us they…

Get Ready for the Head of the Lakes Chilli Cook-Off

This savory event commemorates United Ways Giving Campaign.

DULUTH, Minn.- It comes once a year and just when the chilly weather starts to set in, the Head of The Lakes Chilli Cook-Off is here. The 27th annual Head of The Lakes Chilli Cook-Off starts Thursday, Sept. 20th at the DECC from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. This savory event commemorates United Way’s Giving Campaign. United Way partners with…

How to Help the Second Harvest Food Bank

Do you know the difference between food banks and food shelves?

DULUTH, Minn.- September is Hunger Action Month and the Second Harvest Food Bank is opening its doors highlighting how you can help. Fun fact food banks and food shelves are different. We’re taking a look inside the Second Harvest Food Bank which distributes food to local non–profit programs. Second Harvest is the only food bank in the region which serves…

Tips for Avoiding Future Money Problems

Money Problems Were Different Back in the Day; Barry Bigelow with Great Waters Financial Offers Tips to Staying Financially Alert

DULUTH, Minn. – Planning for retirement used to be fairly predictable. As decades pass, times have changed and we’re now facing money problems today that didn’t exist years ago. Financial professional Barry Bigelow with Great Waters Financial stopped by FOX 21 Local News Wednesday morning to share a few key tips when it comes to staying up-to-date financially.  Q: What…

Free Medicare Advice Offered This Evening in Duluth

UnitedHealthcare is Offering a Free Community Event Wednesday, September 19 for Folks to Learn About Medicare

DULUTH, Minn. – With 62 million Americans enrolled in Medicare, and more than 10,000 Americans turning 65 every single day, there is significant interest in Medicare health coverage. Unfortunately, there’s also tremendous confusion. According to UnitedHealthcare, roughly 39 percent of Medicare beneficiaries say they have a “fair” or “poor” understanding of Medicare, and two in five beneficiaries describes Medicare as “confusing”….

UMD Students Help One Another Get Home Safely

Students can call a free hotline to be assisted walking anywhere within a two mile radius of campus.

DULUTH, Minn.- At the University of Minnesota Duluth, one campus program is helping students feel safe and ensuring no one has to walk alone. With the exception of alcohol and drug arrests sexual assault and stalking cases are the most commonly reported crimes on the UMD campus. Now some students are helping one–another feel safe on campus so they don’t…

Lights, Camera, Action! Ironbound Studios Open House

Ironbound Studios is located in the basement at Chisholm City Hall.

CHISHOLM, Minn. – If you have dreams of making it big you don’t have to travel to Hollywood. Just drive up to the Iron Range to Ironbound Studios. “There aren’t many sound stages of this size east of Burbank,” said Ironbound Studios President Joel McGuire. Lights, camera, action! During an open house people could see the 45,000 square foot sound…

Celebrating National Cheeseburger Day.

On average Americans eat 50 billion burgers a year.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s national cheeseburger day, whether you prefer cheddar, swiss, or provolone it’s the day to enjoy a cheeseburger without guilt. On average Americans eat 50 billion burgers a year. To celebrate FOX21 stopped by Big Daddy’s Burgers in Duluth, which is offering a special deal for a pepper jack cheeseburger. “Cause who doesn’t love cheese,” burger chef Casey McDougall…

Bark Avenue Recovering after SUV Slammed into Building

The damage to the dog food alone costs nearly $2,800.

DULUTH, Minn.- Bark Avenue has reopened after an SUV crashed into the business last week causing massive damage. At the corner of W. Third St. and N. 24th Avenue W. after hitting a bus an SUV slammed into the right side of the dog groomer building, causing workers and animals to evacuate immediately. Now temporary beams are currently in place. Cost…

All Aboard the Fall Colors Train Starting this Friday

CNN Once Named the North Shore Fall Colors Train Tour "Top 5 out of the Top 10 in America"

DULUTH, Minn. – Starting Friday, September 21, folks will be able to hop aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad’s Fall Color Tours. Executive Director of the North Shore Scenic Railroad, Ken Buehler, told FOX 21’s Brett Scott Tuesday morning that this opportunity gives riders the chance to view the Northland in a vibrant, colorful perspective. The Fall Color Tours will be…

Remembering the 100-Year Anniversary of the Death of Finnish Immigrant

Olli Kinkkonen was hanged in Lester Park for his acts, or lack thereof.

DULUTH, Minn.- Sept. 18, 1918 marks the supposed lynching of Finnish immigrant Olli Kinkkonen. The story goes that Olli refused to fight in World War I and there was a toss up on if he was a peaceful man refusing to fight or an outspoken anti-war advocate. A group known as the “Knights of Loyalty” labeled men who didn’t go…

Plea For Answers In Case of Missing Duluth Woman

Over the past three years, Duluth Police have received multiple tips but none have lead to anything big

DULUTH, Minn.- Three years after Sheila St. Clair went missing in Duluth family and police are urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward. Over the past three years, Duluth Police have received multiple tips but none have lead to anything big.  48–year–old Shelia St. Clair was reported missing Septemeber 10th, 2015. Authorities believe she was planning to…

United Steelworkers Local 6115 Vote Unanimously for Strike Authorization

Negotiations from both sides will resume on Thursday in Pittsburgh.

VIRGINIA, Minn. – A crucial vote for the members of the United Steelworkers (USW) Local 6115. The group in Virginia is demanding an increase in their wages and better benefits. One member told me as recently as 2015 they took some concessions like wage freezes since the company wasn’t doing so well. Now that they are, members want an increase in…

Inside Look at UMD’s Media Technology Lab

The director tells us the resources are meant to spark the student's creativity.

DULUTH, Minn.- The University of Minnesota Duluth is showing off their state of the art media technology lab. From the green screen to virtual reality this MMAD lab is utilized by everyone from theatre majors to researchers. The director tells us the resources are meant to spark the student’s creativity. “Nobody else in Hollywood is doing what we are, because we’re…

Student Senate Makes National Constitution Day Known on Campus

The CSS student body government is handing out pocket copies of the constitution.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s national constitution day and the College of St. Scholastica is making a day of it. The CSS student body government is handing out pocket copies of the constitution. Organizers tell us it’s extremely important their fellow students actually know the constitution. “It sets up the foundation of our government and it impacts literally every one of our…

Fall into Autumn Adventures with The Duluth Experience

The Duluth Experience is Offering a Wide List of Fall Happenings Throughout the Autumn Months

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth region offers seasonal attractions for thousands of visitors every year. Combine the amount of entertainment and adventure with beautiful fall colors and there’s certainly something for everyone to enjoy. Co-Founder and CEO Dave Grandmaison stopped by FOX 21 Local News Monday morning to chat about the upcoming events scheduled. The Duluth Experience is already thinking…

Ignite Your Taste Buds this Thursday at the DECC

The 27th Annual United Way Chili Cook-Off Happens Thursday, September 20

DULUTH, Minn. – Are you a sweet or spicy chili fan? No matter the type you favor most, there’s sure to a flavor for you at the 2018 United Way Chili Cook-Off Thursday, September 20 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. The 27th annual event is happening at the DECC. Organizers say it’s a great way to check out amateur and…

UMD Students Showcase Harvested Goods at Farm Fest

Every year almost 1,000 students use the Land Lab as an educational tool.

DULUTH, Minn. – Farm Fest is one of the highlights for students at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD). It’s the time for them to show off everything they’ve harvested all season. Farm Fest takes place at the UMD Land Lab. The Lab has been around for almost 10 years and one of its purposes is to teach students about agriculture….

Annual Properties Tour Highlights Duluth’s Historic Buildings

The tour also doubled as a fundraiser for the Duluth Preservation Alliance.

DULUTH, Minn. – An estimated 600 people spread out throughout Duluth as part of the 38th Annual Historic Properties Tour. A behind–the–scenes look at the NorShor Theatre in downtown Duluth was a highlight. The Duluth Preservation Alliance is behind the tour. Staff say people really enjoy walking through history. “For instance the Norshor Theatre its deep history. You know, starting as the Orpheum Theatre in the 30s and 40s…

Minnesota Amps Up Oversight For Student Loan Repayments

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Office of Higher Education has become more aggressive about taking student loan recipients to court when they fall behind on payments to keep its rates low. Minnesota Public Radio reports that the Student Education Loan Fund provides low-interest loans to Minnesota students to help bridge the gap between financial aid and the cost of education….

2018 Walk for Thought Raising Awareness for Brain Injuries

The Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance says falls are the leading cause of brain injury.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance says falls are the leading cause of brain injury. The organization supports people and families affected by brain injuries. Its annual walk for thought event does just that. There were walks in the Twin Cities, St. Cloud and here in Duluth. For one family the Walk for Thought hits close to home…

AmeriCorps Presents at City Hall

Volunteers Introduce Themselves, Talk Future Projects

DULUTH, Minn.- The Northland’s AmeriCorps VISTA program introduced itself to the public today during a special presentation at City Hall. Local politicians and leaders met with Americorps VISTA members to learn all about what they do. If you didn’t know, VISTA–which stands for Volunteers In Service To America–is a one year commitment young people take at non-profit organizations or local government…

Having A Stressful Day?

Try Meditation, Relaxation & Yoga With Yoga North & Brittney Merlot

DULUTH, Minn. —  Yoga North gives Brittney Merlot a stress-free night on the shores of Lake Superior in this week’s Active Adventures! Using meditation, relaxation and yoga at Brighton Beach, even this video will make you more relaxed! Give it a try! LOCATION: 4628 Pitt Street, Duluth, MN 55804 PHONE: 218-722-9642 WEBSITE: Yoga North SCHEDULE: Categories: Active Adventures, Community, Features,…

Tailgating Tech Tips with Verizon Wireless

For Avid Football Fans, Verizon Wireless Wants to Offer a Few Tips to Staying Up-To-Date with Technology

DULUTH, Minn. – Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan, or simply love to tailgate once in awhile, Verizon Wireless offers a few of their best products to help you get through the long day. Verizon Wireless Solutions Specialist, Chad Fajkus, stopped by the FOX 21 Local News Morning Show Friday to share four items now on the market. Fajkus says…

Making Fun Fall Memories with Simek’s Family Farm

Simek's Family Farm Will Open Saturday, September 15

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s a sure sign fall is right around the corner. Family owned and operated Simek’s Farm is opening Saturday, September 15! Co-owner Andrea Simek says the farm is a wonderful place for both the young and the young-at-heart to enjoy a fall farm experience. The grounds include a corn maze, pick your own fall pumpkin, fresh produce,…

Superior Daycare Provides Flu Shots to Staff to Fight Spread to Kids

Many daycares in the Northland are noticing these flu-like symptoms earlier than previous years but it's not too early for a flu shot.

SUPERIOR, Minn.- Daycares in the Northland are already seeing flu-like symptoms and tell FOX21 this is earlier than usual. If you are young and healthy the flu may not affect your body that harshly, but by getting the flu shot it stops you from being a carrier to those who could suffer serious problems related to the flu. People over…

One Roof Opens 285th Land Trust Home

Open House for New 4-Bedroom In Denfeld

DULUTH, Minn.- A newly renovated, single-family home is now available in Duluth for low and middle-income home seekers. One Roof Community Housing, which is behind the effort, held an open house to show off the home in the Denfeld Neighborhood. This is the 285th of its kind in the Duluth Area. One Roof buys old homes and repurposes them to…

Advocating for the Minnesota Homeless Population

Advocates are focusing on cultivating champions for a bolder Minnesota.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Minnesota is leading the nation in reductions to Veteran homelessness but there’s still a lot to be done. Five hundred people are advocating for the homeless population in Duluth on Thursday, September 13th, at the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless annual conference at the DECC. Advocates tell us the hot topics for Minnesota as a whole, are serving…

Hunger Action Month Looks to Raise Awareness in the Northland

Hunger Action Month is Part of a Larger Campaign Started by the Organization, Feeding America

DULUTH, Minn. – Thursday, September 13 marks the official celebration of Hunger Action Month. To honor this month long campaign of raising awareness, Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank will be hosting an open house tour of their facility on Wednesday, September 19 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Second Harvest is located at 4503 Airpark Boulevard in Duluth. This behind-the-scenes…

2018 Twin Ports Recovery Walk this Saturday

The 2018 Twin Ports Recovery Walk is Happening in Leif Erikson Park

DULUTH, Minn. – The 2018 Twin Ports Recovery Walk looks spread encouragement and community support. The event is happening on Saturday, September 15 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. in Leif Erikson Park in Duluth. The walk will be a total of one mile, beginning at scenic Leif Erikson Park and continuing east down the Lakewalk. Schedule of Events: 4:45 p.m….

This Northland Race is Unlike Any Other

The final stretch takes you up a 35 foot hill and you must ring the bell to finish.

CLOQUET, Minn.- To start racers already get five minutes knocked off their finish time, just for wearing a fanal. Some are calling it the last run of Summer and it’s safe to say the Lost Forester Adventure Run is one participant won’t ever forget. This unique eight-mile course goes through the woods, as runners must traverse through swamps and fallen trees with…

Celebrating a Successful Summer

Families tell us Cloquet’s daylong celebration is the perfect way to end summer together.

CLOQUET, Minn.- The celebrations continued in Cloquet, at the Veteran’s Memorial Park. From bounce houses to food trucks the park packed full of families that mark their calendars for this every year.While many are celebrating having a good job, one little girl is celebrating the joys of being young and having a whole summer off. “This is like the best…

Coastal Cleanup Kicks Off

Duluth and Superior Unite to Rid Lake Superior of Trash

SUPERIOR, Wis.- On Barker’s Island Mayor Jim Paine and Duluth Mayor Emily Larson kicked off what’s being called the “Twin Ports Coastal Cleanup.” It’s part of a larger, month-long effort by the Alliance for the Great Lakes to adopt beaches, and clean them up. Last year, more than 6,300 volunteers picked up more than 11,000 pounds of trash on more…

New Machinery Creating Medical Miracles in Physical Rehabilitation

It's a balancing hoist, funded by an anonymous donor through the Miller-Dwan Foundation and medical professionals tell us the impact is amazing.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s called the ZeroG, a new piece of medical equipment that’s helping make vast improvements possible for patients attempting to walk again. It’s a balancing hoist, funded by an anonymous donor through the Miller-Dwan Foundation and medical professionals tell us the impact is amazing.  The ZeroG is cutting edge technology and it’s creating more opportunities for therapists at…

Lieutenant Governor Candidates Visit Duluth for Housing Forum

DULUTH, Minn. – Lieutenant Governor candidates made a stop here in Duluth for a forum on affordable housing. The forum was put on by the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless, an organization focused on providing stable housing. DFL endorsed candidate Peggy Flanagan and Republican endorsed candidate Donna Bergstrom were at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center for a conversation. Not being able…

As Wrenshall School Deteriorates, Referendum Modified

Facilities Committee Meets with Community to Discuss Changes to Referendum

WRENSHALL, Minn.- Talks continue about a proposed referendum in Wrenshall’s School District. Last year, voters turned down a $12.5 million referendum. But the district is bringing back a $13 million referendum. Some who voted no last year were still for a referendum and remodel, but the terms pulled voters in opposite directions. “Well I’ll tell you what last time I…

Duluth Police Officers Address Mental Health Crisis

The Duluth Police Department's Mental Health Unit is made up of officers, social workers and health professionals.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department’s Mental Health Unit is made up of officers, social workers and health professionals. One officer says he expects the unit could expand over the next few years. Police officers and mental health experts sat on a panel to inform the public of some of the training put in place. Officers can complete 32…

Unique School Bus Helps Special Olympic Athletes

The UCare Mobile Dental Clinic is providing teeth cleaning and other dental services to Special Olympic athletes.

DULUTH, Minn.- Surprising dentist visits are typically bad but one teeth-cleaning station cruising into the Northland is making quite the impact. Dental students from the University of Minnesota are cleaning teeth on a traveling bus, called the UCare Mobile Dental Clinic. During a pit stop in Duluth on Wednesday, September 12, Special Olympics Athletes are receiving free dental work. The soon-to-be dentists tell…