Minnesota

Salvation Army Holds First Black & White Ball

The fundraiser featured a wine pull and silent auction

DULUTH, Minn. — Thursday, the Duluth Salvation Army hosted its first-ever Black and White Ball fundraiser at the Clyde Malting Building. The event not only had dinner, drinks, and dancing, but several opportunities to raise money for the Salvation Army. There was a wine pull and silent auction, featuring Minnesota sports memorabilia and lots of goodies from local businesses. It…

Coffee Conversation: Tutors Needed in Duluth and Across Minnesota Fall 2024

DULUTH, Minn. — Americorps is looking for 45 tutors to help students with reading and math this coming Fall. A total of 1,700 tutors are needed across the state of Minnesota. Early Learning Tutor Paige Blosberg and Duluth Tutor Recruiter Mikayla Karels joined FOX 21 on the morning newscast Friday to highlight the need and provide additionally information. No teaching…

USAF Thunderbirds Land in Duluth Ahead of Airshow

The 15th Duluth Airshow will be headlined by the Thunderbirds this weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — The United States Air Force Thunderbirds have landed in Duluth ahead of the big air show this weekend. The 15th Duluth Airshow is just about ready for take off. This weekend’s headliner, The Thunderbirds, includes eight pilots who will demonstrate the speed and accuracy of their F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. Major Jeffrey Downie — call sign “Simmer”…

Garage Sale With No Price Tags–For a Good Cause

In Carlton tables of donated goods will raise money for scholarships and more.

Who doesn’t like a garage sale?  Especially if it’s for a good cause– and there are no price tags! That’s the deal in Carlton at the Four Seasons Sports Complex. Tables are filled with toys, kitchen items, books– you name it. It’s put on and organized by volunteers– literally and officially. The Volunteers Services Organization does it every year. It helps…

Duluth Public Schools Look to a Future Without Special Levy Money

Voters said "no" to referendum--round two.

Voters said ‘no’ to a tax increase, and now the Duluth Public School system will be looking at what to cut and how much. This follows Tuesday’s referendum, which failed by an unofficial tally of about 450 votes–5,007 to 5,460. Superintendent John Magas said the results were disappointing, but that he appreciated all the hard-work and support from citizens, parents…

Voters Reject Duluth School District’s Technology Referendum For Second Time

DULUTH, Minn. — For a second time, voters have rejected a proposed technology referendum Tuesday for the Duluth School District. The levy would have provided $5.2 million annually over the next decade for learning technology, digital curriculum and security, according to the district. Below is a press release sent out by the district Tuesday night: Residents of Duluth Public Schools…

Newfoundland Showcase Takes Over Bayfront Park This Week

The NCA Specialty Showcase Visits Minnesota for the First Time in Its History

DULUTH, Minn. — If you walk around the Bayfront area in Duluth, you might just spot one almost 600 “gentle giants” who have made the area home this week. The Newfoundland Club of America National Showcase is at Bayfront Park this week, with an opening ceremony Tuesday afternoon. This is the first time the showcase has been in Minnesota. The…

Fit-N-Fun Run Gets Duluth Students Active and Outside

ISD 709 elementary school students raced around the track at UMD's Malosky Stadium

DULUTH, Minn. — Tuesday morning was an opportunity to get outside and get active for students from Duluth Public Elementary Schools. The Essentia Health Fit-N-Fun Run took over Malosky Stadium at UMD. More than 1,500 students from third to fifth grade raced around the track to celebrate the approaching end of the school year. Kids ran 400 meters, or one…

Authors Of Northern Waters Smokehaus Cookbook Talk Recent Award Nomination

DULUTH, Minn. — Northern Waters Smokehaus is receiving recognition for their cookbook, Smoke on the Waterfront. This is the first cookbook that has been written for the Smokehaus. It took years to complete and came out just in time for their 25th anniversary this last November. The book features recipes that were converted from industrial size to ones you can…

Coffee Conversation: Local Faith-Based Pop Band Releases New Single, Signs New Deals

DULUTH, Minn. — Faith-based pop band Presence Music finds recent success after releasing their latest single Down in the River. Members of the group joined FOX 21 on the morning newscast Tuesday, where they announced they’ve signed a development deal with Mcglaughlin Music Group and radio promotion deal with Compass Artist Management. They also played their new hit live in-studio. More…

LSC Graduates and Families Celebrate Together

Ceremony important both for those crossing the stage and walking the stage.

DULUTH, Minn. — The parade of smiles, diplomas and tassels continued Monday in Duluth. This time it was the turn for graduates of Lake Superior College–752 to be exact. They were in 69 different program areas and every student had their own story. For Christy Cuppy it was the day to finally get her RN degree, after 15 years working…

Duluth’s Jesus Is Life Ministries Brings Aid Following Midwest Tornadoes

Two vans packed up earlier this week with supplies, leaving Duluth for Iowa

DULUTH, Minn. — A church in West Duluth continues its tradition of helping people at disaster sites across the country. This last week the Jesus is Life Ministries church from West Duluth decided to head to Minden, Iowa a small city in the southwestern part of that state. The decision to help this small town was largely made because tornadoes…

Driver Arrested After Hitting Utility Pole, Vehicle On Garfield Ave.

DULUTH, Minn. — A driver is facing serious charges after Duluth police said he slammed into a utility pole and a vehicle. The crash happened around 10:45 a.m. Saturday in the 500 block of Garfield Avenue. The Blatnik Bridge and Garfield Avenue were closed until Minnesota Power could stabilize powerlines and install a new power pole. Police said the 36-year-old…

Hermantown Firefighters Tackle ‘Significant Training Opportunity’

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — Hermantown firefighters battled a house fire Saturday as part of a “significant training opportunity.” The structure was donated by local developers from Platinum Properties and Patriot Properties of Hermantown. The day-long event featured a variety of training exercises within and around the house on the 4700-block of Lindgren Road. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News, Public…

Prescribed Burns Begin In Superior National Forest

Prescribed burning began Sunday in the Superior National Forest, north of Ely. Officials said the burning helps reduce hazardous fuel build-up and lowers the risk of intense wildfires. The process helps forest health and wildlife habitat, and is culturally significant to indigenous people in the area, according to the DNR. Categories: Environment, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News, Public Safety

Bent Paddle to Host Annual Festiversary Block Party Next Weekend

Next Saturday is Bent Paddle Brewing Company's Festiversary celebration and this year will have a theme close to many Minnesotan's hearts

DULUTH, Minn. — This year, Festiversary will not only be celebrating Bent Paddle’s 11th anniversary, but also the 40th anniversary of Prince’s album Purple Rain. The two-block party Saturday afternoon will feature two stages of live music, family-friendly activities, and lots of options to drink and eat. And of course — Prince tribute band Chase and Ovation to close out…

Minnesota Fishing Opener Reels in Mixed Results

This weekend was the official fishing opener in Minnesota and while the bait shops were busy, the fish weren't biting

DULUTH, Minn. — Fishers at Island Lake Reservoir, Wild Rice Lake Reservoir, Pike Lake, and the St. Louis River told Fox21 Local News they weren’t catching much. One fisherman even said this was the worst he’d done on opening weekend in recent history. It depends who you talk to,” said Fredenberg Minno-ette owner Jason Manning. “The nice weather will get…

Chalstrom’s Bait and Tackle Shop Busy Ahead of Fishing Opener

DULUTH, Minn. — Chalstrom’s was a popular spot for bait and tackle this week as anglers get ready for the Minnesota Fishing Opener. In the land of 10,000 lakes, the fishing opener is an unofficial holiday for Minnesotans. Chalstrom’s has just about everything one needs before hitting the water, including bait, lures, and of course snacks. Chalstrom’s says the week…

Charitable Gambling Starts at Hoops Brewing, Proceeds Going Towards Duluth Curling Club

DULUTH, Minn. — Charitable Gambling has started at Hoops Brewing, with proceeds going towards the Duluth Curling Club. The Curling Club opened its pull tab booth at Hoops Friday afternoon. People were quick to visit the booth to buy a stack of pull tabs. There is also e-tabs and e-bingo at Hoops. And all proceeds from the charitable gambling will…

“No” Voice Joins Discussion As Duluth School Referendum Approaches

Opponents say they have doubts and concerns over proposed tax levy.

The technology referendum for Duluth schools is just days away and as the final weekend unfolds, both those in favor and opposed are working hard to get their messages out. The referendum has been getting attention and signs of opposing voices are visible. Lawn signs with a “Vote No” message have been appearing. The Citizens Research Council is a local…

Duluth East Students Perform “Spelling Bee” Musical

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth East Theatre Program is putting on a spring musical that is getting even audience members involved in the fun. ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ is a comedic musical that centers around six students who compete in a spelling championship. Audience members filled the theater for the opening night of the production which even…

MN DNR Recommends Safety Equipment When Fishing

MINNESOTA — As fishermen and women head out on the water this weekend, the Minnesota DNR is making sure people stay safe. The DNR suggests having the right safety equipment including an engine cut off switch and life jackets for each person. The engine cut off switch is recommended to be attached in case of an unexpected fall overboard. Life…

Duluth’s ‘Tourism Marketing Working Group’ To Hold Listening Sessions In May

DULUTH, Minn. — The future of Duluth’s multi-million dollar tourism marketing contract is being guided by a working group at the request of Mayor Roger Reinert.  And later in May, there are opportunities for businesses and the public to weigh in. This comes after Reinert’s announcement in March that he believes next year’s marketing contract should be awarded to local…

Minnesota’s April Distracted Driving Citations ‘Extremely Frustrating’

Disturbing, unacceptable and extremely frustrating — those are the words from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety when describing the number of distracted driving citations in April. “The number of citations issued is disturbing, unacceptable and extremely frustrating,” said Mike Hanson, DPS Office of Traffic Safety director. “Getting distracted behind the wheel for even a couple seconds can end with…

Wildfire Burns Dozens Of Acres Near Cotton

Courtesy: Northland Fire Wire KELSEY TOWNSHIP, Minn. — A wildfire ignited Thursday afternoon near Cotton that burned up dozens of acres. Kelsey and Cotton firefighters, along with the Minnesota DNR, were called in around 1p.m. along Kacer Road in Kelsey Township, according to the Northland Fire Wire. The Cotton Fire Department said the fire burned at least 80 acres, according…

Northland High Schools Compete in a Burger Cook Off

DULUTH, Minn. — It was a day filled with flipping burgers for four high school culinary classes on Friday. There was some friendly competition between northland schools today as they competed in the first annual Northeast Minnesota High School Cook Off. Duluth East, Duluth Denfeld, Rock Ridge and Cook County schools participating in the burger cook off. The cook-off focused…

Union Gospel Mission Receives $25,000 From Project Joy For Summer Food Program

DULUTH, Minn. — Union Gospel Mission has received a donation from Project Joy to help feed local children this summer. Thursday afternoon Project Joy gave the Mission a check for $25,000. The money will go towards filling up bags with easy-to-prepare food for kids in the northland. The bags will given to local organizations that have youth programs. It will…

Problems Identified in Post Offices in Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn – You count on your mail being delivered promptly, and that is the goal of the Postal Service. However, in audits conducted by the Inspector General of the Postal Service, prompt delivery has not been happening. We talked with Senator Tina Smith who has been working to understand the problems with the mail system. Recently, the issues facing…

Work Continues on Downtown Duluth Safety

Approach is combination of outreach, education, and when necessary--enforcement.

Crime and safety in downtown Duluth have been a growing community concern, and the city has taken steps it says are slowly making a difference. That was the message inside the Greysolon Ballroom Wednesday, where Downtown Duluth members heard from the mayor, police chief and city attorney. The approach has involved a combination of education, persuasion and enforcement. It ranges…

Northeast Minnesota Fishing Outlook For 2024 Season

MINNESOTA — The Minnesota Fishing Season Opener is this weekend, and the fish are out and about this year. The Minnesota DNR tells us that although Northeast Minnesota is known for its beautiful lakes and rivers, there are plenty of fish to catch while enjoying the scenery. An expert says the walleye population is abundant this year. Northern Pike and…

Coffee Conversation: Mix Cosmetiques DIY Mother’s Day Bonding Bliss Workshop

DULUTH, Minn. — Mix Cosmetiques presents a DIY Mother’s Day bonding class where attendees will craft lip gloss, lip polish and perfume using only plant-based ingredients. Owner of Mix Cosmetiques Lanae Rhoads joined FOX 21 on the morning newscast Wednesday with more information. Rhoads helped FOX 21’s Maria Vollom make a lip polish live in-studio. DIY Mother’s Day Bonding Bliss…

Pro-Palestine Encampment Grows In Duluth Civic Center; Police Monitoring

DULUTH, Minn. — A few more tents have arrived at the pro-Palestine encampment in Duluth’s Civic Center courtyard six days after police said it was illegal to set up tents on the property. On Tuesday, May 7, there were at least five tents, instead of the original two, outside the Federal Building, St. Louis County Courthouse and City Hall. A…

Cloquet Students Compete in 7th Annual Battle of the Books

CLOQUET, Minn. — Students faced-off Tuesday in the 7th annual Battle of the Books competition at the Cloquet Senior High Auditorium. The quiz bowl style event featured students from Churchill Elementary, Washington Elementary and Cloquet Middle School. The kids read 12 different books this year and answered questions Tuesday about the authors, characters, themes and settings. Event Coordinator Jessica Gagne…

Allete Sold to Partnership in $6.2 Billion Deal; Company Going Private

Announcement says headquarters to remain in Duluth.

The company behind most of the northland’s power and energy has been bought. Allete announced the purchase Monday morning, and it will now become a private company. Allete is the parent company of Minnesota Power and Superior Water, Light and Power. It has been bought by a large partnership with hopes that deep pockets will fund future capital investments. The…

Minnesota Legislators Consider Constitutional Amendment To Protect Abortion And LGBTQ Rights

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Democrats have introduced far-reaching legislation to add abortion and LGBTQ rights to the state’s constitution in hopes of making it much harder for future lawmakers to repeal these and other rights in the future. The Minnesota Equal Rights Amendment was introduced last week and has its first legislative hearing Monday. It would be among…

Hoops Brewing Hosts ‘We’re Cutting You Off’ Homegrown Wrap-Up Party

Festival-goers could stop by and get a deal on beers by letting a bartender cut off their Homegrown wristband

DULUTH, Minn. — Sunday was the last day of the Homegrown Music Festival in the Twin Ports. This year’s festival started with an official kick off party at Hoops Brewing in Canal Park and now music lovers can return to Hoops to be “cut off.” Hoops Brewing invited festival-goers for the “We’re Cutting You Off” Wrap Up Party. Anyone who…

‘Everyone Can Bird’ Event Series Makes Birdwatching Accessible for All

Birders met up at Chamber Grove Park for an accessible birdwatching event -- catching a firsthand glimpse of the spring migration

DULUTH, Minn. — Sunday morning, dozens of people flocked to Chamber Grove Park for the Everyone Can Bird event. The morning was designed with accessibility in mind, making sure birders of all abilities could enjoy. The event had an American Sign Language interpreter on hand, as well as a track chair — an all-terrain wheelchair for hiking. Interested birders of…

UMD Students Walk the Stage for Graduation

DULUTH, Minn. — It was a big day for University of Minnesota Duluth students who graduated on Saturday. Around 2,000 UMD students walked across the stage at Amsoil Arena. There was two commencement ceremonies on Saturday, recognizing students who earned their bachelor’s degree, doctoral degree, or master’s degree. Family and friends of the students packed the arena and cheered on…