minnesota

Winter Village Encourages Shopping Small

Nearly 40 of Duluth's local vendors will sell special Holiday crafts.

DULUTH, Minn.- Coming up this weekend, locals can experience a special taste of the holidays during the Northland’s second Winter Village. The celebration is on the grounds of the Glensheen Mansion on Dec. 1st to Dec. 2nd. The event brings together Duluth’s small shops. More than 40 vendors will be showing off their crafts. It’s the second time the Lake Superior…

Thunderbird Mall Offering More Shopping Experiences

The Thunderbird Mall is undergoing more additions.

VIRGINIA, Minn.- Good news for shoppers on the Iron Range, the Thunderbird Mall is adding more stores. The newest addition is Tractor Supply Co. The store is a one stop shop for the whole family, even your pets. This is just the beginning for more shops and job opportunities at the mall. “The building or the complex here is going…

Santa Claus Arrives at Fitger’s

Santa and his reindeer met little Northlanders at Fitgers Courtyard.

DULUTH, Minn.- Santa and his reindeer greeted little kiddos Friday at the Fitgers Courtyard. Jingle bells and ho ho hos filled the court yard. Children who have done their best to stay on the nice list all year long waited in line to tell Santa Christmas wishes. The meet-and-greet also gives children an opportunity to ask questions about the reindeer….

State Parks Offer Free Admission for Free Park Friday

DULUTH, Minn. – Black Friday deals aren’t just taking place inside shopping malls and storefronts today. State Parks across the country are offering free admission for Free Park Friday. Some are even hosting programs. Tettegouche State Park is teaching Primitive Fire Starting from noon until 2:00 p.m. For more information head to www.dnr.mn.us. Categories: Community, Entertainment, Environment, Features, Health, Links,…

Northlanders Celebrate at Twin Ports Thanksgiving Buffet

Northlanders flock the Twin Ports Buffet.

DULUTH, Minn.-  On average 46 million turkeys are gobbled up on Thanksgiving according to the National Turkey Federation.The Thanksgiving buffet at the DECC served up plenty in the Northland. The 28th annual Twin Ports Buffet fed nearly 5,ooo people of all ages. Families gather around the table, others are filled with Northlanders getting to know their neighbors. One couple attends…

Northlanders Hit the Road, Air For Thanksgiving

The AAA reports nearly one million more Americans will travel this Thanksgiving.

DULUTH, Minn.- The busy holiday travel season is underway AAA reports 48.7 million Americans will travel over 50 miles this Thanksgiving. Traveling during the holidays can be a stressful one, but Duluthians told FOX21 they are packed prepared and ready to go. Over at the Duluth International Airport travelers are coming and going pretty smoothly and the stress has minimized…

How Sweet It Is Back Open for Business

Two local businesses team up to keep staple eats in the Twin Ports available

DULUTH, Minn.- A popular sweets shop that was forced to close last month after 20 years of business has officially made an unexpected comeback. How Sweet It Is Cakes has re–opened a revised business model inside the Duluth Grill in Lincoln Park. The owner of How Sweet It Is closed in October because of declining sales, after moving into the Holiday…

Morgan Park School Begins New Chapter

The demolition of Monday Park Schools began on Monday.

DULUTH, Minn.- Morgan Park School has been apart of the community for the past 102 years, but the property is heading into its next chapter. The first steps of demolition began Monday to make way for 96 town home units. The Morgan Park Estates as they are being called is a nearly $18 million investment into Morgan Park. The demolition…

Northland Breweries Helping Habitat for Humanity

Northlanders can grab a cold one for a good cause.

DULUTH, Minn.- Breweries in the Northland are teaming up to help out a local non–profit. The Suds for Shelter Benefit is giving craft brew lovers a good reason to grab a cold one. Participating breweries are donating a portion of pint sales to the Western Lake Superior Habitat for Humanity. This Tuesday, Nov. 21st.  the benefit will be held at Blacklist Brewery….

Christmas Trees Take Over Duluth Farmers’ Market

Northlanders can now decorate for the holiday season before Thanksgiving.

DULUTH, Minn.- Are you eager to spruce up your house for the holiday season? Christmas trees are now for sale at the Duluth Farmers’ Market.  This is the first year Hoffbauer Tree Farm is selling Christmas trees before Thanksgiving. At the market, Northlanders can pick out the perfect tree for their home with sizes ranging from eight feet high to a…

Northlanders with Twins Gather for Support

Mothers with little Northland twins gather sharing experiences.

DULUTH, Minn.- Around 32 people out of every 1,000 are a twin, according to the Center for Disease Control. One group in the Northland meets specifically to discuss raising twins.  The Twin Ports Mothers Multiples Club is a support group for moms in the Northland. It also gives twins a chance to meet other twins. According to one mother having someone who…

Love–A–Pet Day Gives Animals a New Home

Local event highlights animals up for adoption.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.- Saturday was one for the dogs at Miller Hill Subaru. Dogs and cats from Animal Allies Humane Society and Lake County Humane Society found their new families at Love–A–Pet day. It’s Animal Allies largest off site adopt event. If you’re looking for a furry friend more pets will available on Sunday. “Adoption is so important because when you…

Festival of the Season Held in Duluth

Northlanders prepare for the holiday season at the last farmers market of the winter season.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Farmers Market is filled with Christmas spirit during the 11th annual Festival of the Season. vendors show off their holiday decorations at the market. Although some Northlanders may be holding off on decorating for the Christmas season, one vendor told FOX21 it’s never too early to decorate. “It’s never, especially a year like this year when winter…

Bentleyville Tour of Lights Officially Open

Northlanders attended the first opening night of Bentleyville Tour of Lights.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Bentleyville Tour of Lights is now open to shine throughout the holiday season. Duluth is beaming with holiday spirit; families, couples, and friends stayed warm with hot chocolate while admiring the bright lights. With so many different attractions picking a favorite light display can be tough. What’s your favorite display at Bentleyville Tour of Lights? “The big…

Northlanders Spread Thanksgiving Cheer

Northlanders come together during the Thanksgiving season, ensuring everyone has a hot meal.

DULUTH, Minn.- Nearly 5,000 meals are given out on Thanksgiving at the 28th annual Twin Ports Thanksgiving Buffet. Preparations to feed Northlanders at the Thanksgiving feast, begin back in August. Friday volunteers brought in 2,200 pounds of turkey and nearly 1,900 pounds of mashed potatoes. The group of volunteers lending a hand, come from many different backgrounds. “We really all…

Bentleyville Brings in New Attractions

This year Northlanders are encouraged to use their cameras and capture moments at Bentleyville.

DULUTH, Minn.- Volunteers are working on the final preparations for Bentleyville, before the holiday season kicks off Saturday. Final touches are being perfected, before Santa parachutes in Saturday night. This year families and friends can cherish Bentleyville memories for years to come. The light festival has a variety of new photo spots set up as you walk through the Winter Wonderland….

Fighting Domestic Violence in the Northland

One local organization gives locals an opportunity to make a direct impact on abuse within the community.

DULUTH, Minn.- The organization Men as Peacemakers, aims to make a  direct impact on the domestic violence within our community. The organization is hosting domestic violence restorative circles, which rely on community support. The classes needed to be a volunteer are currently underway this weekend. Around four to six community members are needed during each circle meeting. This weekend the training…

Northlanders Renovate Old Buildings

Old abandoned buildings in Two Harbors are being restored and filled.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- Two Northland sisters are fixing up abandoned buildings, with hopes a small business will move in. Sharon Erickson Ropes and her sister are doing their part to clean up Two Harbors. The sisters purchased a small building and are in the process of flipping it. Ropes told FOX21 it’s exciting being on the first floor of restoration. “I think…

DFL Mandates Sexual Harassment Training for All Campaigns Wanting Party Support

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Laborer (DFL) Party has announced that all campaigns seeking the party’s support must under go sexual harassment training. DFL Chairman Ken Martin today announced that all campaigns receiving official party support from the DFL will be required to attend sexual harassment and workplace conduct training. “Sexual harassment is a pervasive problem that needs to…

Local Workshop Highlights Effective Communication Skills

A workshop held in the Northland aims to help improve communication.

DULUTH, Minn.- Explaining your stance in politics issues can sometimes be frustrating when speaking to individuals with opposing views. Connection Labs came to Duluth helping Northlanders more effectively frame messages. According to research presented Sunday, responding re-actively during a conversation, creates a smaller chance of being heard. “We want to fight that, instead of stepping back and saying ‘what is…

Final Preparations Underway for Bentleyville Tour of Lights

Northlander volunteers play a large role in getting Bentleyville up and running.

DULUTH, Minn.-Bentleyville will be open in just six days, last minute preparations are currently underway. Many Northlanders have lent a hand setting up Bentleyville, now its the final count down till the holiday lights flick on. The helpers still out preparing the final details have special skill sets, necessary to get the park up and running. This year there are plenty…

‘Music With Robots’ Workshop Inspires Northland Kids

The unique instruments show their full potential at the kid friendly workshop.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth is known for its local musicians, Sunday Blacklist Brewery allowed kids to tap into their creative side with a special set of instruments. “Making Music with Robots” is a hands–on educational workshop. Creator Troy Rogers started making the instruments 14 years ago. Rogers told FOX21 sometimes the creator isn’t always the best musician, to actually use the instruments. “The…

Local Craft Festival Gives Back to Northland

The Festival of Trees gives Northland shoppers an opportunity to donate.

DULUTH, Minn.-  The Festival of Trees offers something for everyone. It has become a staple holiday event in the Northland. The event gives many local artists a place to show off and sell crafts. The Festival of Trees is the largest fundraiser for a local non–profit, the Junior League of Duluth. Fox21 spoke to one vendor, with a similar business plan…

Veterans Voiced Concerns to Senator Amy Klobuchar

Northland veterans discussed local issues with Senator Amy Klobuchar.

CLOQUET, Minn.- Senator Amy Klobuchar listened to Northland’s rural veterans speak out on concerns. Senator Klobuchar said there are some serious problems with veterans’ health benefits. Ensuring the Guard and the Reserve recieve the same health benefits other branches are given, is the biggest issue currently being worked on. One of the main issues addressed today, the long drive rural…

Festival of Trees a Northland Holiday Staple

The Festival of Trees is the Northland's largest craft show.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Northland’s largest craft festival is also the largest fundraiser for one local non-profit organization. The Duluth Festival of Trees hosted over 170 vendors. The festival is a staple during the holiday season for many Northlanders. “There’s so much tradition here at the festival of trees,” Junior League President Megan Avery said. “A lot of excitement, a lot…

Special Report: Early Education

State Funding Sends Thousands of Young Minnesotans to Preschool

MINNESOTA – More than 20,000 of  Minnesota’s 4-year-olds are heading to preschool this year because of state funding. This has been great news for some rural Northland areas. However, it is having an impact on area child care centers. As a result of the 2017 Legislative Session, Minnesota lawmakers are providing $50 million in new, one-time funding to 59 school…

Talent Shines At 7th Annual Willie Kruger Dance Competition

Competition provides an event for dancers of all backgrounds.

DULUTH, Minn.- The 7th annual Willie Kruger Dance Competition took place Sunday, honoring Kruger who was known as a local break dancing pioneer. The competition brings together dancers from diverse backgrounds. Some performances were choreographed in the studio and others mastered their skills out on the streets, which is where Willie Kruger’s love for dancing originated. “There’s no competitions around…

Meat Shops Get Busy With MN Deer Opener

DULUTH, Minn.- Many Northlanders are returning home after a successful opening weekend of deer firearm season, which means a busy time for meat shops. For Old World Meats, by the end of the hunting season the shop will process nearly 150 deer. Although some Northlanders handle their deer from the hunt to the table, shops like Old World Meats offer…

Local International Club Celebrates Diverse Community

Local college international club brings community together with authentic dishes.

DULUTH, Minn.-The University of Duluth Minnesota hosted the annual International Potluck, giving Northlanders a taste of other cultures. The potluck gives community members an opportunity to interact with the UMD International Club and a free hot meal.  Saturday afternoon the line wrapped around the building at the Hope Methodist Church. Authentic dishes from around the world were served up, bringing…

Northlanders Attend the Gales of November Convention

The Gales of November convention is the largest fundraiser for the Maritime Museum.

DULUTH, Minn.-The 30th Gales of November convention took place this weekend at the DECC. The event is the largest fundraiser for the Lake Superior Maritime Museum Association. The association said it’s all thanks to community members. “Everywhere I look there’s somebody lending a hand, offering to donate something, to give back in some way,” executive director Tammy Sundbom Otterson said….

Critically Endangered Tamarin Welcomed to Local Zoo

The Lake Superior Zoo welcomes a critically endangered species to the family.

  DULUTH, Minn.- The Lake  Superior Zoo welcomed a baby Cotton-top Tamarin on Thursday. Zoo officials say this is a very exciting addition to the family. Tamarins are a critically endangered species, with an estimated population in South Africa of 6,000. The baby was born following recommendations from the Species Survival Plan, a program which guides breeding of critically endangered…

Hermantown is not Receiving LGA in Upcoming Budget

Local government aid cut in Hermantown due to a glitch.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.- Hermantown is receiving no local government aid for the 2018 budget. This is the fourth year the city has received a cut in LGA. Back in 2016 an unintentional error caused the city to receive less LGA than the state determined. The glitch was corrected, but it was too late to fix the city from getting funding in…

Preparing for Firearm Deer Hunting Season Opener

Hunting shops are busy with Northlanders preparing for deer hunting.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.- Many Northlanders making final preparations before Minnesota firearm deer hunting opener takes place bright and early Saturday morning. Many hunters have already spotted bucks on their trail cams. With all the excitement, hunters need to remember the essentials.  Many popular items bought from Fisherman’s Corner in preparation for the season are; scope protectors, hand warmers, and water proofing…

Trick-or-Treating Tricks and Tips

How much candy is too much candy on Halloween?

DULUTH, Minn.- Trick-or-Treating is 24 hours away, FOX21 has tips on handling the sugar monsters that come with it. Plenty of candy will be handed out and eaten by little ones. According to one local expert, allowing children to indulge on Halloween has its benefits. “A lot of times on that first night it’s good to just let them eat,”…

The Lyric Kitchen Bar hosts Grand Opening

New restaurant serves early birds to bar close in downtown Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.- On Monday downtown Duluth is officially home to a new restaurant and bar; serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Lyric Kitchen Bar is located on the first floor of the Holiday Center, with street-side views of West Superior Street. Monday was the grand opening of the restaurant, which has a large menu serving everything; from paninis, to…

Kayak Bay Village Open for Public Comment

Investors proposing development near Spirit Mountain.

DULUTH, Minn.- Next year investors are hoping to build hotels and restaurants near Spirit Mountain. The proposed development is Kayak Bay Village, which aims to create a sense of space for the base of Spirit Mountain. Kayak Bay Village would support multiple trails in the area, along with other accommodations the city is missing. “Duluth is already pretty full in…

Duluth Assessing Storm Damages Cost

The city of Duluth is assessing damages from Friday's storm.

DULUTH, Minn.- Friday’s storm pummeled the Lake Superior shore with massive waves, the city is busy picking up the pieces. The total dollar amount of the damages is unknown. The city is currently assessing the damages, which will be announced in the next couple of days. If the damages exceed the State threshold of $368,000 seventy five percent of the…

Northlanders Discuss “MinnesotaCare Buy-In” Proposal

Lieutentant Governor Tina Smith and Commissioner Emily Piper Host Town Hall for Residents in Northeastern Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith started the workweek with a stop in Duluth to talk healthcare Monday morning. Smith along with Commissioner Emily Piper chose to host a town hall in Duluth on the MinnesotaCare Buy-In Proposal. For Lt. Governor Smith, the goal of Monday’s meeting at Duluth City Hall was to inform residents of the plan…

Study: Roundabouts Reduce Serious Injuries in Minnesota

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota’s nearly 200 roundabouts are reducing serious injuries and saving lives, according to a new study released by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. According to MnDOT officials, roundabouts have a comparable initial construction costs and lower life-cycle cost than a traffic signal with similar traffic capacity. The study examined the safety performance of 144 roundabouts by…

Duluth Artist Wins Walleye Stamp Contest

Third win for the artist!

2018 Walleye Stamp competitionFirst Place: Dean Kegler (MnDNR) DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has announced that a Duluth artist has won the Minnesota Walleye Stamp contest. Dean Kegler, was selected by judges from among 11 entries for the annual contest sponsored by the DNR. Kegler’s painting featured a walleye about to strike a crankbait and will…

Solving the Healthy Food Access Issue

The Minnesota Food Access Summit discusses local issues, to make healthy food more available.

DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesotans working to change the flow of food through laws, policies, and systems are meeting this week. The Minnesota Food Access Summit brings together around 550 individuals from different fields, aiming to solve the issue of healthy food access. “When you have an opportunity to work with different sectors, it really helps you expand and creatively think of…

City Roads Ready for Winter

The roads are clear right now, but soon Northlanders will have their first snowy drive of the season.

DULTUH, Minn.- The first snowfall can be excited, but it requires some extra attention on the road. The roads are clear right now, but soon Northlanders will have their first snowy drive of the season. The city of Duluth is prepared for the conditions. Trucks started off the morning laying black top to fill potholes, within a couple hours its…

Remembering Senator Paul Wellstone’s Legacy

Northlanders remember Senator Paul Wellstone on the 15th anniversary of his death.

DULUTH, Minn.- Fifteen years ago on October 25th Northlanders were devastated when a plane crash took the life of a beloved Senator. FOX21 is remembering the legacy of Senator Paul Wellstone. “We all do better, when we all do better,” Paul Wellstone said. Those words have stuck with Northlanders. FOX21 spoke with one of Wellstone’s early supporters- which grew later…

Chaplain Training Underway in Duluth

Training underway for chaplains, who help our community and local law enforcement.

DULTUH, Minn.- Chaplains from across the region are in Duluth this week. Chaplains are participating in training at the Public Safety Office by the St. Louis County Sheriff’s office, to be the best chaplains possible. FOX21 is told their role is to offer emotional and spiritual support to all people. Chaplains serve as a listening ear to police officers, their…

Jobs Cut at the Lake Superior Zoo

The Lake Superior Zoo cut jobs as part of a budget sustainable program.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Lake Superior Zoo started facing many challenges after the loss of the polar shores exhibit. On Monday twelve positions at the Zoo were cut, as part of a revitalization process.  Ten workers at the zoo were laid-off on Monday, two of the twelve jobs were unfilled. The layoffs are helping create a sustainable budget plan; to help…

Energy Awareness Expo Helps Northlanders

The 14th annual Energy Awareness Expo was packed full of eager customers.

DULUTH, Minn.- The 14th annual Energy Awareness Expo kicked off today at the Salvation Army. The event is hosted by the Minnesota Board of Light and Power, AEOA, and Comfort Systems. The organizations invited income eligible customers to meet with energy providers ask questions and learn tips on energy conservation. The event is popular with customers, the line to get…

City Snow Plow Training Underway

The city is prepping workers for the winter months during snow plow training.

DULUTH, Minn.- On Tuesday city workers in Duluth prepared for the upcoming snow during a training session at Spirit Mountain. The course gives workers an opportunity to operate the machinery, before work will be in full swing during winter in the Northland.  City employees are practicing maneuvering graters and plows for snow removal.  “What we do here is we get them…

Winter Preparation Tips

Are you prepared for the first snowfall of the season.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s been a warm October in the Northland, but we could be seeing some now later in the week. FOX21 has winter preparation tips. Northlanders are use to the cold and snow, but an unexpected snowfall or frozen windshield can sometimes set you behind schedule. Don’t be thrown off guard, add some of these items to your shopping…

Checking Chimneys before Chilly Temps

The months before winter are a busy season for chimney services.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s the time of year homeowners should begin prepping for colder temperatures, which includes checking the chimney. Having your chimney inspected helps prevent household fires. Chimney inspectors clear obstructions such as animals or debris. Full chimney services offer; cleaning, inspection, rebuilding, and repairing. Black Goose Chimney and Duct has been servicing the local community for 30 years.  “Most people…