Minnesota

Women’s Business Alliance North Recognized With Excellence Award

The WBA North serves women entrepreneurs in seven counties in Northeast Minnesota and Douglas County, Wisconsin

DULUTH, Minn. — On Monday women operated businesses were recognized for their part in the community. Women’s Business Alliance North was named the 2024 Women’s Business Center of Excellence in Minnesota. The WBA North provides support to female entrepreneurs through advising, training and opportunities. A discussion was held at Mexico Lindo for female businesses owners who shared their experiences around…

City Announces Proposed Changes to Skyline Parkway

DULUTH, Minn. — The City of Duluth hosted a listening session at Lincoln Park Middle School Monday evening to unveil proposed alternative modifications to W Skyline Pkwy in front of Enger Tower, as an attempt to increase non-motorized access, decrease speed and increase public safety. A city engineer says the Skyline Parkway loop could temporarily turn into a one-way road,…

Over Half Million Dollars in Grants From Northland Foundation

Targeting "basic" needs such as food, housing and shelter for those at risk of "falling through the cracks."

The people and programs working hard to help others, got some financial help themselves Monday. There are many efforts in our area to help those in need. Some prime examples would be the Damiano Center or the Salvation Army. They are just two of twenty-eight non-profits that will be receiving grants from the Northland Foundation. In the first quarter of…

Names Released Of 2 Missing Canoers, After Canoes Go Over Curtain Falls In BWCAW

Curtain Falls (Cliff Wold’s Outfitting Co. 2017) UPDATE (May 20, 10:45 a.m.) — The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office has released the names of those involved in the search for two missing canoers in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 41-year-old Jesse Melvin Haugen from Cambridge, Minnesota and 40-year-old Reis Melvin Grams of Lino Lakes, Minnesota are the two missing…

Coffee Conversation: YWCA Duluth To Host Annual Mission Soirée Fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — In celebration of 130 years of serving the northland, YWCA Duluth will hold its annual Mission Soirée on Thursday, May 30 to raise funds to continue its programs. YWCA Operations and Communication Manager Asin Biiwaash-Smith joined FOX 21 on the morning newscast Monday to talk about the event and its purpose. The Mission Soirée will take place…

Duluth’s ‘Substance Use Response Team’ Coordinator Talks Opioid Crisis

DULUTH, Minn. —  Last year in Duluth, a record number of opioid-related overdoses were recorded. There were a total of 480 opioid-related overdoses, including 46 deaths. In 2013, there were 42 opioid-related overdoses and one death. Jessica Nickila, coordinator of the Duluth Police Department’s Substance Use Response Team (SURT), said the over prescribing of opioids decades ago in our area…

Superior Woman Receives Electric Shock At Edgewater Hotel

DULUTH, Minn. — An enjoyable day swimming at the Edgewater Hotel ended badly for a Superior mom and her daughter. The family says the two received an electric shock, hospitaliizing the mother. The family says the mother, Heather Paquette, reached to open the gate to the outside whirlpool area and received a strong electric shock. According to her mother, Melissa…

National Bike Month is Celebrated in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.– Friday was a great day to bring out the bikes. With May being National Bike Month, people ditched the cars on their commute Friday morning. Riders also had the opportunity for bike checks and mechanical advice. Raising awareness about safety and sharing the roadways is also a large part of bike month. Being able to educate the public…

Reinstated Duluth Catholic Priest Returns To His Parish

Father William Graham reinstated by Vatican, appeared before grateful supporters Friday.

Describing it as a story of “light triumphing over darkness,” a Duluth Catholic priest once accused of sexual abuse returned to his church Friday. Standing in front of supportive congregation members, Father William Graham said the immediate task will be to pray together and listen to each other. The Duluth Diocese removed Graham from the St. Michael’s Parish for almost…

Fox21 Takes to the Sky in a World War II Stinson L-5

As a part of the Duluth Airshow, the Commemorative Air Force flies restored U.S. combat planes

DULUTH, Minn. — Practice was well underway this morning for the Duluth Airshow. But while eyes were trained on the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, another plane was ready for takeoff. The Stinson L-5 Sentinel is a World World II-era liaison plane. During the war, the L-5 was used for artillery spotting, bringing ammunition to the frontlines, and evacuating severely wounded…

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…