Author: Lauren Martinson

Union Gospel Mission’s “Miles for the Mission” 5K draws over 100 people

DULUTH, Minn. — Over 100 people participated in the 2nd annual “Miles for the Mission” 5K, hosted by Union Gospel Mission. The event serves both as a fundraiser and a symbolic journey, with the route intentionally mirroring the path many Mission guests take upon leaving the Mission. Scheduled for March, the 5K challenges participants with cold, slippery conditions, highlighting the…

Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge celebrates 20 years of serving the Northland

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge celebrated their 20th anniversary with an open house. Community members were given tours of the 72-bed recovery facility. The evening featured a program which included a choir performance, testimonials from program graduates, and words from the founder, Pastor Rich Scherber. MNTC serves men of the Northland facing addiction issues and offers long…

Tony Dierckins debunks Duluth myths at the Glensheen Mansion

DULUTH, Minn. — If you’ve spent time in Duluth, you may have heard that the canal was hand dug by “100 stout men” in 1871, or perhaps that there are tunnels beneath the Glensheen Mansion. Those questions and more were addressed by local author Tony Dierckins at the “Duluth’s Greatest Myths” event held at the Glensheen Mansion. Dierckins debunked several…

Twin Ports clothing swap promotes style and sustainability

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Many refreshed their wardrobe without spending a dime at a community clothing swap in Superior. Ritual Marketplace opened its space for the event hosted by Jill Joyce and Tiersa Wodash. Transforming its space into a hub for sharing style and sustainability. From shoes to jewelry, and outerwear to hats, there was something for everyone, with no minimum…

Northern Lights Girls Basketball Team host grocery bagging fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — The Northern Lights Girls Basketball Team held its grocery bagging fundraiser at Super One. Since 1996, the organization’s main focus has been ensuring that every player can compete and improve regardless of financial circumstances. To make this possible, the program hosts fundraisers to help cover fees for families who need assistance, keeping basketball accessible to all. “We’ve…

Wild State Cider hosts fundraising event

DULUTH, Minn. — Wild State Cider hosted a fundraiser where each drink purchased supports a local non-profit. For each beverage sold at the event $1 will be donated to the Great Lakes Aquarium. The event also featured activities, including a spin-the-wheel game for a chance to win prizes and a raffle for an aquarium prize package. The package includes items…

Minnesota Power Foundation makes large donation to Second Harvest Northland

DULUTH, Minn. — A local non-profit has been gifted a large donation that will help serve the community for many years. For the past three years, Second Harvest Northland has been expanding the distribution center they acquired in 2022. With the help of Minnesota Power and the Minnesota Power Foundation, they are able to complete phase 1 of the project….

Superior pushes for control over SWL&P utilities

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Superior Water, Light and Power, owned by Allete, has provided Superior with utilities for the last 135 years. However, Mayor Jim Paine is pushing for a shift to keep costs affordable. “Right now, people are opening the most expensive water, light, and power bills they have ever received in the history of the city,” said Superior Mayor…

Essentia Health offers virtual care options during winter storms

DULUTH, Minn. — After a recent blizzard blew through the Northland, some businesses closed due to the heavy snowfall. But one business that never shuts down is a hospital. At Essentia Health, nurses and doctors are ready for whatever emergency comes their way during winter storms. For some patients, though, it can be too difficult to travel in the bad…

Twin Ports community supports 11th Annual MMIWR Memorial March

DULUTH, Minn. — Over the weekend, people gathered for the 11th Annual Memorial March for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives. The event began with an opening ceremony at the American Indian Community Housing Organization. Family members shared the names and stories of their loved ones. The program featured Indigenous drummers and singers, along with a Red Solidarity Shawl…

Artistic Florals by Leslie sees Valentine’s Day rush

SUPERIOR, Wis. — With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, many shoppers are scrambling for last-minute gifts, and one local shop is keeping up with the rush. Artistic Florals by Leslie in Superior is ready for the special day, offering everything from fresh flower arrangements and house plants to candy and stuffed animals. Shoppers can order roses wrapped or boxed,…

Skate for the Heart held at Essentia Duluth Heritage Center

DULUTH, Minn. — Families, love birds, and community members of all ages celebrating Valentine’s Day with a night of skating at Essentia Duluth Heritage Center. As skaters made laps around the rink, songs about love played throughout the arena, creating an enjoyable atmosphere. To celebrate Valentine’s Day, skaters were treated to a special gift, a night of free skating. “I…

St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office PAL Boxing Club hosts open house

DULUTH, Minn. — The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League Boxing Club hosted its first open house this evening. The boxing club is located in the former First Presbyterian Church on East 2nd Street. The program came together through community partnerships and donations. This included equipment and financial support that helped transform the once-empty space into a fully…

Cold conditions bring hot competition to Barkers Island

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Engines roared across the ice as racing enthusiasts gathered for a winter competition on a track far from traditional. From bikes, to quads, and side-by-sides, the competition welcomed a variety of racers taking to the ice in front of Barkers Island. The event, hosted by the nonprofit group Midwest Ice Racing Association, takes place during the Lake…

Zenith Bookstore sees increased sales in the dystopian genre

DULUTH, Minn. — A local bookstore has seen an uptick in sales for one particular genre. As many Minnesotans express uncertainties about the state’s future, many readers are gravitating toward dystopian novels. Zenith Bookstore in Duluth has noticed the trend, spanning everything from the classics to new releases. Store manager, Sarah Brown said, “history repeats itself, and what these books…

“No NDA’s in the DFL” meeting held at Zeitgeist

DULUTH, Minn. — The topic of non-disclosure agreements took center stage at a public meeting at Zeitgeist. Elected officials and community members alike gathered to discuss NDA’s ahead of an upcoming caucus. The focus was on how NDA’s have been used by officials, but an update was also provided on the Hermantown data center. Small groups broke out for discussions…

Brightwater Health reveals re-branding

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth’s largest mental health and addiction services provider has officially re-branded. Brightwater Health, formerly known as the Human Development Center, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event included remarks from Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce president Matt Baumgartner and guided tours of the space. “Most people in our community, at some point, will have…

Protestors gather outside Rep. Pete Sauber’s meeting with Teamsters

DULUTH, Minn. — A protest was held outside the Teamsters Local 346 union hall in Lincoln Park, where Congressman Pete Stauber was believed to be attending a private gathering. People outside said they showed up looking to share their concerns with proposed legislation easing federal restrictions on mining near the Boundary Waters, and the current unrest in Minneapolis involving ICE…

Music fills Duluth City Hall as Lyric Opera of the North begins artist residency

DULUTH, Minn. — The rotunda at Duluth City Hall filled with music and voices from Lyric Opera of the North as Mayor Roger Reinert welcomed the 2026 Artists in Residence to the City Hall on the afternoon of Wednesday, Jan. 21. This year marks the opera company’s 20th year of performances and education in the community. At the event, guests…

Mayor Reinert comments on Duluth City Hall protest

DULUTH, Minn. — As many Minnesotans participated in anti-ICE protests, and some businesses shut down for the day as part of statewide demonstrations. Nearly 100 community members gathered at the Duluth City Hall rotunda for a civil protest organized by Twin Ports Democratic Socialists of America. Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert spoke on the protests and addressed the city’s role. “We…

Northern Waters Smokehaus appears on “Triple D Nation”

DULUTH, Minn. — Grab your popcorn, grab your snacks, and hunker down in front of the TV, because this local eatery is featured on a popular Food Network Show. In 2010, Northern Waters Smokehaus appeared on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,” hosted by food personality star, Guy Fieri. Recently, the restaurant returned for the spin-off series “Triple D Nation.” The show…

‘Push-In Ceremony’ places new Tender 1 Tanker into service

TOWN OF SUPERIOR, Wis. — The Town of Superior Fire Department held a “Push-In Ceremony” to officially place Tender 1, their new tanker truck, into service. The Fire Chief began the ceremony with a speech regarding the importance of the truck, which cost approximately $520,000, and took three years to plan, order, and build. The ceremony included filling the tanker…

Duluth participates in nationwide ICE protests

DULUTH, Minn. — Twin Ports residents gathered at Lake Avenue and Superior Street during a weekend of nationwide protests following the death of Renee Nicole Good, who was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis. Organized by the Twin Ports Democratic Socialists of America, Anti-Imperialist Action, and the Northwoods Socialist Collective, the protest focused on ICE’s…

Fans get “Caged In” celebrating iconic actor at Duluth Depot

DULUTH, Minn. — Fans of the iconic Nicolas Cage gathered at the Duluth Depot for the 4th annual “Caged In,” a free event celebrating the actor and the lasting impact of his films. Attendees enjoyed screenings of three Nicolas Cage movies, including “Left Behind”, “The Rock”, and “Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent.”  Along with trivia and prizes, all while celebrating…

Candlelight vigil and “ICE out for good” protest in Cloquet

CLOQUET, Minn. — A community gathering took place in Cloquet honoring the life of Renee Nicole Good, while also protesting ICE’s presence in Minnesota. The 37 year old and mother of three was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis on Jan. 7, 2026. More than 100 people coming together for a peaceful candlelight vigil hosted…

Mentor North is celebrating National Mentor Month through art

DULUTH, Minn. — January is National Mentor Month. Duluth’s Mentor North is celebrating the month by hosting an Art Show at the Duluth Folk School. The organization is showcasing artwork created by youth, families, and mentors, highlighting the role creativity plays in building strong relationships throughout the Twin Ports. The event also offered hands-on art-making activities, which included making flip…

Mayor Jim Paine veto’s lead pipe ordinance

SUPERIOR, Wis. — This evening, Mayor Jim Paine decided to veto the City Council-approved lead service line ordinance during the Superior City Council meeting. After reviewing the amended language, Mayor Paine spoke with city councilors, saying some of the amendments are incomplete or incorrect. He says publishing the ordinance now would create unnecessary costs and that the five-day review period…

Hermantown Community Schools celebrates new hockey arena with ribbon-cutting ceremony

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — Hermantown community members packed into the new arena for its grand opening. What began as a dream became a reality through the support of local businesses, community funding, and lawmakers. The project was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tours of the new NorthStar Ford Arena, which is expected to serve generations of hockey players. “This…

Bentleyville wraps up the holiday season

DULUTH, Minn. — Across the Twin Ports, people spent the past few days taking in the holiday lights, leading to Bentleyville wrapping up with volunteers helping to take down all the lights. Yesterday was the final night of the famous light show. It was accompanied by fireworks while onlookers said ‘goodbye’ to this year’s Christmas season. Today, “teardown” began and…

West Duluth Little League devastated by second fire of 2025

DULUTH, Minn. — On Christmas evening, the Western Duluth Little League suffered a structure fire that destroyed both the equipment shed and concession stand. This is the second time this year that a fire has affected the same structures. The league has released a statement on their Facebook stating, “We are devastated at this news, and moving forward will need…

Animal Allies shares successful adoption tips

DULUTH, Minn. — As the holidays come to a close, some people may realize that a well-intended gift came with more responsibility than expected. Those irresistible puppies and kittens can lead to impulsive decisions, especially during the holidays. Animal Allies in Duluth works year-round to promote successful pet adoptions and shared tips on surrender prevention. “So we, yeah, really discourage…

Shoppers hunt for holiday gifts one book at a time at Fitgers Bookstore

DULUTH, Minn. — As Christmas inches closer, many Americans are scrambling to pick up last-minute gifts. One Duluth store staying busy this holiday season is the Fitger’s Bookstore. Aside from books, their most popular item this year is gift cards. Which they say gives shoppers an easy way to support local businesses and give back to the community. “We love…

Strikepoint handbell ensemble rings in the holiday spirit

DULUTH, Minn. –Strikepoint is recognized as one of the world’s top handbell ensembles. The group continues to share their music globally and locally, using concerts like their annual Christmas one at First United Methodist Church to help fund their concerts across the globe. The funding, much of which comes from generous donations, means the world to the ensemble. “Through our…

American Legion Post 109 hosts annual lutefisk and Swedish meatball dinner

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — The American Legion Post 109 in Two Harbors hosted its 21st annual Lutefisk and Swedish Meatball Dinner, a tradition that brings together locals, travelers, and longtime supporters. Guests purchase meals, choosing either lutefisk or Swedish meatballs, to support veterans. Lutefisk is a Scandinavian tradition stretching back hundreds of years, and with its deep roots in the…

The Original Louis’ Cafe closing its doors permanently

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Popular Greek restaurant The Original Louis’ Cafe in Superior is shutting down permanently. After serving the Twin Ports for over 50 years, the local favorite is closing its doors on Friday, December 5. “It’s been an incredible journey, and we’re so grateful for every moment we’ve shared with our amazing customers and community. The memories we’ve created…

Superior kicks off Small Business Saturday with annual Holiday tree lighting

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The community gathered at Center City Park in Superior’s downtown business district for the annual Holiday tree lighting, which also marked the official kickoff to Small Business Saturday. Before the countdown began, families and community members filled the park, sipping on hot cocoa, enjoying cookies, and listening to cheerful holiday music as Santa and his helpers greeted…

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…

UMD Rocketry performs static motor test

DULUTH, Minn. — After months of hard work, dedication, and teamwork, members of UMD Bulldog Rocketry finally had their moment, putting their brand-new rocket motor to the test before their competition in June. “We do this for our competition in order to prove that our rocket, that the motor that we make ourselves will perform nominally and without any catastrophic…

More than 300 community members gather for Epilepsy Awareness Month

DULUTH, Minn. — More than 300 community members gathered at the Great Lakes Aquarium on the evening of Saturday, Nov. 22, during National Epilepsy Awareness Month. The event, hosted by the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota, featured a catered dinner, arts and crafts, and opportunities for people in the epilepsy community to connect. More than 55,000 Minnesotans live with epilepsy. Epilepsy…

Life House Celebrates new Expansion

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce hosted an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of Duluth’s Life House’s new expansion. The event taking place at Life House highlights the new mental health and wellness center, a space dedicated to providing mental health support for area youth and young adults. The program offers free mental health…

2,700 pounds of food donated at Festival of Trees

DULUTH, Minn. — The 38th annual Festival of Trees fundraising event took place at the DECC over the weekend of Nov. 15, wrapping up with a strong attendance and a successful outcome. Organized by the women’s volunteer and leadership training organization, the Junior League of Duluth, the event featured more than 170 vendors, including retail shops and nonprofits. The festival…

Bent Paddle shares concerns regarding federal hemp ban

DULUTH, Minn. — Congress voted to reopen the Federal Government Wednesday night, and in doing so, passed a bill federally banning hemp-derived THC products. Before the Government reopened, Bent Paddle, a local brewery, shared its concerns regarding the hemp ban. The bill came as a shock to many people in the industry, including the CEO and Director of Operations for…

Gales of November conference attracts over 200 attendees

DULUTH, Minn. — The 38th annual Gales of November maritime conference drew over 200 attendees to the DECC during November 7-8. The educational fundraising event included a maritime trade show, silent auction, and several keynote speakers sharing their insight on the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald, as tomorrow marks the 50th anniversary of its tragic sinking on Lake Superior. “There’s a lot…

Minnesota deer hunters gear up for 2025 season

PIKE LAKE, Minn. — Blaze orange is lighting up the Northland once again as the Minnesota deer opener makes its grand return. Saturday, Nov. 8, marks the official start to the Minnesota deer hunting season, and as hunters are gearing up, supplies are flying off the shelves. FOX21 spoke with the owner of the local sporting goods store, Fisherman’s Corner,…