Minnesota

Minnesota Ballet performs scenes of ‘The Nutcracker’ at Essentia

DULUTH, Minn. — Healthcare Workers and patients at Essentia saw some dazzling dances from the Nutcracker. The Minnesota Ballet visited the hospital ahead of their full performance at the DECC. They performed a few excerpts from the ballet in the atrium, then headed up to the pediatric unit to perform for the children. “It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the…

Essentia and MNA reach tentative agreement for over 100 Virginia nurses

VIRGINIA, Minn, — Essentia Health and the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) have reached a tentative agreement on contracts for more than 100  nurses in Virginia. Friday, Essentia announced the tentative agreement on a three-year contract for the nurses. “This milestone comes after productive discussions and reflects our deep appreciation for the extraordinary work these nurses do every day,” said Rhonda Kazik,…

Minnesota DNR acquires 16,000 acres of land for permanent protection

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. — The Minnesota DNR has acquired 16,000 acres of land for permanent protection. This is one of the DNR’s largest land acquisitions in recent history, resulting in the permanent protection of nearly 16,000 acres across a 10-county area in Northern Minnesota. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to protect these forests, lakes, and waterways – now and for…

Man arrested for stealing car warming up at MnDOT office then getting stuck in snow bank following chase

Kane Charles Bonga DULUTH, Min. –  A man is accused of stealing a car warming-up at the MnDOT office at the corner of Mesaba Avenue and Central Entrance. Charging documents accuse Kane Charles Bonga of stealing a 2008 Subaru Outback. The car belonged to a MnDOT employee.  That employee got into a co-worker’s car and followed the stolen Subaru.  They…

Atlanta Most Wanted man arrested in Duluth will not fight extradition back to Georgia

Kmauri Burnett DULUTH, Min. –  A man on the Atlanta Police Department’s most wanted list for allegedly committing two murders will not fight extradition back to Georgia. He signed court documents saying so about 24-hours after his arrest in Duluth. 20-year-old Kmauri Burnett was arrested bv the Lake Superior Violent Offender Task Force, DPD, and St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office near the…

Bentleyville welcomes “Zoo Crew” to tour of lights

DULUTH, Minn. — People gathered at Bentleyville for a visit from some fluffy friends known as the “Zoo Crew”. The annual tour of lights brought in animals from “Cook’s Country Connection” to help spark some holiday cheer, with goats, mini horses, and alpacas braving the chilly weather. If you missed the critters during their Bentleyville stay, they’ll be back out…

Duluth Armory receives largest ever donation amid restoration

DULUTH, Minn. — For over 20 years, the Duluth Armory has been looking for funds and donations wherever they could them. However, thanks to a very generous anonymous local, the finish line is in sight. “We are so appreciative,” said Michelle Miller, co-executive director of the Armory Arts and Music Center. “This is a local supporter of the project who…

The Veterans Memorial Hall hosts 20th annual remembrance dinner

DULUTH, Minn. — People gathered at the Veterans Memorial Hall for the 20th annual remembrance dinner. The event was hosted by the St. Louis County Historical Society and is held every year to honor service members and our nation’s history. The evening featured keynote speakers, a silent auction, dinner, the Mike Colalillo Medal of Honor Scholarship, the unveiling of the…

MadHouse Burgers featuring Chilly Billy’s to close Woodland Avenue location

Chilly Billy’s DULUTH, Min. – MadHouse Burgers featuring Chilly Billy’s has announced that it will close its Woodland Avenue location. In a news release the restaurant said the location will soon become Sabor by Pedro’s, The owners of Sabor by Pedro’s approached MadHouse Burgers about taking over the location. The new Mexican spot from the Pedro’s team is promising to,…

The “Leif Erikson Viking Ship” to be back on public display after 40+ years

KNIFE RIVER, Min. – Following more than 40-years of restoration the “Leif Erikson Viking Ship” will be on display and open to the public. Viking Ship Restoration Project Save Our Ship, Inc. has been working on the restoration. It will debut at the annual “Julebyen Christmas Village” celebration in Knife River. The boat was built in Norway in 1926 as a…

Rare twin pygmy slow lorises born at Lake Superior Zoo

The Lake Superior Zoo is delighted to announce the birth of twin pygmy slow lorises to parents Colby and Georgio. DULUTH, Min. — The Lake Superior Zoo is announcing the birth of twin pygmy slow lorises. The infants were born on November 17, 2025 to parents Colby and Georgio. The the zoo says the babies have been, “steadily growing, exploring, and…

Esko-native to retire after more than 37-years of military service

Command photo of Command Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Erikson, the Minnesota National Guard’s Command Senior Enlisted Leader taken in Cottage Grove, Minnesota on Oct. 16, 2024. ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard is honoring Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Erikson. Chief Master Sgt. Erikson will be honored in a Saturday, December 6, 2025 ceremony. The ceremony…

Huge debts listed in Lutsen Lodge fire criminal complaint

Lutsen Lodge Fire DULUTH, Min. – The Bryce Campbell, the owner of the Lutsen Lodge, has been charged with burning down his own business. The fire happened on February 6, 2024.  He was officially charged on February 3, 2025. Campbell’s debts and money problems were featured in the charging documents. It reads Campbell’s companies, “North Shore Resort Company, North Shore…

Aldi celebrates grand opening in Hibbing Minnesota

HIBBING, Minn.– A popular European grocery chain has opened another location in the Iron Range. Aldi, the budget-friendly grocery store known for its fun finds, celebrated its grand opening today. The new location sits along highway 169 west. Shoppers can also enter a $500 gift-card sweepstakes throughout the opening weekend. One customer shared that she’s thrilled to see this new…

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…

UPDATE: Lutsen Lodge owner charged with arson

Lutsen Lodge Fire Bryce Campbell UPDATE: The owner of Lutsen Lodge has been charged with arson in connection with the 2024 fire. According to court documents, Bryce James Campbell, 41, is accused of intentionally starting the fire and filing a fraudulent insurance claim. Campbell is being charged with three counts of first-degree arson and one count of insurance fraud. The…

Coffee Conversation: Christmas City Express returns to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The Christmas City Express is officially on the tracks in Duluth. Executive Director of the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and North Shore Scenic Railroad Ken Buehler joined Fox 21’s morning newscast to talk more about it. Click here for details and ticket information. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Duluth Armory Restoration project receives anonymous $5 million donation

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Armory Arts and Music Center announced Thursday a donation of  $5 million from an anonymous donor. Officials say the money will be used for matching donations for the building’s restoration project moving forward. The restoration is a $48 million project to create a lasting center for arts and entertainment while celebrating the building’s history. With…

Cougar sightings reported from Duluth to Two Harbors

DULUTH, Minn. – Cougar sightings between Two Harbors and Duluth have created quite the excitement. A cougar sighting in Duluth on Wednesday put two schools into a “secure status” as a precaution. A spokesperson for Duluth Schools said the cougar was spotted about a half-mile from Ordean East Middle School, which is also near Congdon Park Elementary. Both schools lifted…

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,…

Derek Chauvin asking for new trial

Derek Chauvin MINNEAPOLIS (CNN) –  The former police officer convicted of murder in the death of George Floyd is seeking a new trial. Derek Chauvin was found guilty of state and federal charges related to Floyd’s death. He has served five years of a 22.5 year prison sentence. Chauvin’s attorney filed court documents asking that three criminal convictions be vacated…

MyPillow founder Mike Lindell files paperwork to run for governor of Minnesota

Mike Lindell (AP) – Mike Lindell, a prominent backer of President Donald Trump’s false claims that the 2020 election was stolen, filed the paperwork with the Minnesota campaign board Wednesday. But Lindell told The Associated Press that it’s “not 100%” sure yet he will run. He said he filed because the person who would run his campaign told him they needed to get…

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…

Road to gold: Duluth’s Korey Dropkin talks Olympic pursuit

Duluth, Minn. — Duluth curler Korey Dropkin is headed to the biggest stage, the 2026 Olympics. He’ll compete alongside his curling partner, Cory Thiesse. FOX 21’s Maria Vollom sat down with Dropkin to talk about his journey on the ice and the road ahead. COMING SOON: Dropkin teaches Vollom how to curl like an Olympian. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News,…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Salvation Army seeks toys, volunteers, and donations

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Salvation Army Community Engagement Director Cyndi Lewis joined FOX 21 to share how residents can get involved with giving back this holiday season. Hartel Disposal is matching donations up to $75,000. The Salvation Army is especially in need of toys for children, plus volunteers to serve as bell ringers at Red Kettles around the region. Shoppers…

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,…

Update: ‘Possible human bones’ found in basement of Chisholm home

Home where bones were found (submitted) 7:15 p.m. update: Chisholm Police Chief James Vukad said possible human bones were found in the basement of a home Tuesday. Bones found in Chisolm home The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has been called in to process the scene. “Initial observations indicate the bones are NOT believed to be of human origin; however, they…

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….

New Finance Director for Duluth

Juanita “Nina” Salinas DULUTH, Min. – Juanita “Nina” Salinas is the new City of Duluth Finance Director. Nina most recently served as Chief Administrative Officer for the City of San Antonio Council District 6, where she oversaw constituent services, zoning, public works, and events and outreach for the district. She also supported the district’s review of the city’s $4 billion…

Federal authorities plan operation in Minnesota focusing on Somali immigrants, AP source says

FILE – In this June 28, 2019, file photo the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) seal is seen during a news conference in Washington. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Federal authorities are preparing a targeted immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota that would primarily focus on Somali immigrants living unlawfully in the United States, a move that comes as…

Coffee Conversation: “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol” brings holiday spirit to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Boat Club Productions is bringing a little nostalgia to the Northland this holiday season. “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol” opens this Thursday at the Spirit of the North Theatre inside the Fitger’s Complex. John Ryde-Crane, who plays Isadore “Buzz” Crenshaw, and Keith Russell, who takes on the role of Clifton Feddington, joined FOX 21 live in studio….

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…