Minnesota

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. Submitted photo 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 will be submitted…

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…

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…

Three new K-9s join local law enforcement agencies, three celebrate retirement

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — Two new K-9s have joined the Hermantown Police Department, taking over the reins of two long-serving K-9s who are entering retirement. K-9s Tuuko and Jack are both retiring after serving for around 10 years on the force. Both of the dogs accomplishing many feats in their time. K-9s Bruno and Kylo have graduated from their training and…

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…

Vikings waive wide receiver Adam Thielen to allow veteran to pursue more playing time elsewhere

FILE = Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen warms up before an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Oct. 19, 2025, in Minneapolis EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings waived wide receiver Adam Thielen on Monday, allowing the 13-year veteran an opportunity for more playing time elsewhere down the stretch of his expected final NFL season and ending…

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…

Great Lakes Aquarium mourns loss of Bogey, 26-year-old bald eagle

DULUTH, Minn. — Great Lakes Aquarium announced the death of longtime resident Bogey the bald eagle, who was 26-years-old. After a period of declining health, the decision was made to humanely euthanize Bogey. X-rays taken in June revealed Bogey had significant arthritis, and recently he began to struggle with standing and eating. Bogey first arrived at Great Lakes Aquarium from…

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…

What a federal ban on THC-infused drinks and snacks could mean for the hemp industry

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The production lines at Indeed Brewing moved quickly, the cans filling not with beer, but with THC-infused seltzer. The product, which features the compound that gets cannabis users high, has been a lifeline at Indeed and other craft breweries as alcohol sales have fallen in recent years. But that boom looks set to come to a crashing…

Rules: FOX 21 Days of Holiday Treasures

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 following morning to submit your code word….

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…

City of Duluth offering complimentary parking ramps on Small Business Saturday plus other selected days

DULUTH, Min. – The City of Duluth’s Parking Services division is offering a select number of complimentary parking days one four days. The ramps include Lakeview Medical District Ramp, Technology Village Ramp, and HART District Ramps will all participate. Free days are: Saturday, November 29 (Small Business Saturday) Thursday, December 4 Thursday, December 11, and Thursday, December 18 In making…

More than 3 dozen sickened in infant botulism outbreak tied to contaminated formula

Byheart Infant Formula (AP) – More than three dozen babies have been sickened in an infant botulism outbreak tied to contaminated formula, federal health officials say. The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday reported 37 cases of confirmed or suspected illness in babies who consumed ByHeart formula since August. The most recent case was reported on Nov. 19. No deaths have been…

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…

Minnesota Power outages affect thousands of customers across Northern Minnesota

  Tree Down In Lakeside (credit: Minnesota Power) DULUTH, Minn. — Thousands of Minnesota Power customers are without power on Wednesday morning. Officials say the storm downed trees and power lines, and poles, causing scattered outages in Little Falls, Cloquet, and the Long Prairie areas. Duluth is also experiencing an outage, including about 1,000 customers in Lakeside/Lester Park, and about…

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…

Virginia office of Lakeview Behavioral Health set to close

Lakeview Behavioral Health UPDATE: Lakeview Behavioral Health has released a statement following the closure of their Virginia office. The full statement from COO Zack Kahmeyer: “After extensive evaluation and careful consideration, we made the difficult decision to close our Virginia location. This choice was rooted in our commitment to providing the highest quality mental health care. Consolidating our services will…

Canadian Border Services Agency gives tips for holiday border crossings

Flag of Canada ONTARIO. — The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is reminding travellers of what to expect when crossing into Canada this holiday season. In 2024, the CBSA says it saw more than 93 million travellers and confiscated tens of thousands of prohibited goods. The CBSA encourages you to read and follow these travel tips before arriving at the…