Community

The popular Soul Food Night returns to UMD

DULUTH, Minn. — Smooth jazz and the aroma of soul food brought life to the University of Minnesota Duluth over the weekend. The college’s Black Student Association hosted the annual Soul Food Night, transforming the evening into a celebration of African American Culture. This year’s event was Harlem-themed. People enjoyed an open speech, poetry, a jazz band, and dancing. Soul…

Minnesota Star Wars Collectors Alliance hosts 3rd annual Frozen Force Art Showcase

HERMANTWON, Minn. — People across the Northland gathered at the AAD Shrine Event Center for the 3rd annual Frozen Force artist showcase. It originally started as a small gathering in the front yard of Stephen Kaarbo. He’s the president of the Minnesota Star Wars Collectors Alliance. This year, the showcase featured more than 20 local and national artists offering original…

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…

Piedmont Youth Hockey Association hosts Panther Pancake Breakfast

DULUTH, Minn — The hockey community came together for the Panther Pancake Breakfast fundraiser. The fundraiser was put on by the Piedmont Youth Hockey Association, a community-run non-profit that aims to keep youth hockey accessible, inclusive, and safe. The event doubled as a celebration of a successful hockey season despite the setback that followed last year’s vandalism. Attendees had the…

Community brings the energy and excitement ahead of Birkebeiner race

HAYWARD, Wis.– A day before the big Birkebeiner race out in Cable and Hayward, the Kortelopet is in full swing, and there’s still plenty to be excited about. “it’s really cool to see everybody who comes out and, like, supports people and like, the community and like, yeah, just so many people skiing by,” said Ingrid Haaland, a Kortelopet racer….

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…

Perfect weather conditions ahead of Birkebeiner race

HAYWARD, Wis.– Ahead of the Birkebeiner, the energy is already electric, in Hayward, Wisconsin, as racers are conquering the Kortelopet. Despite all the snow and wind much of the Northland experienced a few days ago, Hayward is in great shape for this weekend. Both Hayward and Cable, are filling up with more than 10,000 participants. The event manager for the…

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….

New Wisconsin film tax credit and film office hope to boost local productions

  SUPERIOR, Wis. – Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers recently announced a new tax credit for filming in Wisconsin and the creation of a Film Office. It’s been a couple of decades since Wisconsin had a film tax credit.  Wisconsin was also one of only four states that didn’t have a film office either. It’s a great opportunity for the city…

Winter cattail burns to happen in Voyageurs National Park

Prescribed burns in Voyageurs National Park INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. – Voyageurs National Park staff will be conducting prescribed burns in selected wetlands in and near Black Bay and Cranberry Bay on Rainy Lake in February and March 2026. The prescribed burns will remove unwanted invasive cattails and dead vegetation.  They also have the goals of rejuvenating wetland plant communities, and…

Duluth and Superior soccer clubs entering strategic management agreements

Northland Sports Management Logo DULUTH, Minn. & SUPERIOR, Wis. – Duluth FC and Superior City FC are announcing new strategic management agreements with Northland Sports Management. They point out “this is not a merger.” Duluth FC and Superior City FC will remain distinct, independent clubs, each retaining its own governance, competitive pathways, and brand identity – preserving their full independence….

New bridge installed in Nemadji State Forest

Net River Forest Road Bridge NICKERSON TOWNSHIP, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has completed a bridge replacement and road improvement project on the Net River Forest Road in the Nemadji State Forest. It was the final phase of a multiyear project to reconstruct the road to make it safer and more accessible for both recreation and forest management….

Ronald McDonald House hosts 5th annual Brew Love North fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — The Ronald McDonald House hosted its5th annual Brew Love North fundraiser. Since opening in 2021, the Ronald McDonald House has supported over 500 families throughout the region. The event consisted of over 20 local craft beverage vendors offering unlimited samples, along with a silent auction and a “Donate to Vote” contest, with 100% of the proceeds going…

Mayor Roger Reinert speaks on skywalk system

DULUTH, Minn. — Following the release of a study regarding the skywalk system, the City of Duluth Mayor, Roger Reinert, weighed in. A six-month study of the skywalk system identified several challenges and outlined three main options: fully reinvesting in the system, removing it entirely, or pursuing a hybrid approach. The study ultimately found that a hybrid approach would work…

Robert’s Rules of Order turns 150 years old

DULUTH, Minn. — One of the most influential rule books for public meetings operate turned 150 years old Thursday. Robert’s Rules of Order was written in 1876 and is still shaping modern meetings today. Robert’s Rules of Order are designed to create fair, orderly meetings with equal speaking time for debates before votes are made. North Carolina attorney Jim Slaughter…

Superior Choice Credit Union holds funeral as formal goodbye to the penny

SUPERIOR, Wis.– The community is “paying” their respects and keeping a penny in their thoughts mourning the loss of the 1-cent coin, discontinued last year. The service reflected the impact the 238-year-old coin had in the nation. A crash course went over the history of the penny, and how it changed over the years… Members also discussed it’s cultural significance. From…

USW Next Gen Committee holds book drive for Kids, Teens

DULUTH, Minn. — United Steel Workers Local 9460 has a new initiative to support literacy and learning. Throughout February and March, the Next Gen Committee is holding a book drive. They are collecting new and gently used books aimed for children and teens. Donated books will be distributed to area Essentia Health locations. Kids will be able to browse in…

Duluth Sport Show kicks off at the DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — One of the Northland’s biggest sporting exhibitions is underway at the DECC. The annual Duluth Sport Show kicked off at 3 pm Thursday, February 19th. Four halls contain hundreds of products, vendors, and activities. From boats, RVs, and resorts to demonstrations and free face painting – there will be something fun for everyone. “It’s become a tradition….

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…

UMD Coaches and athletes reflect on Dale “Hoagie” Haagenson’s impact

DULUTH, Minn.– A beloved member of the UMD bulldog community, Dale “Hoagie” Haagenson, passed away Feb. 17. Athletes, UMD coaches and staff said Hoagie touched the hearts of so many, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on. “He was so uplifting and caring. I know he cared so deeply about all of us. And we’re all just heartbroken right now,…

Soul Asylum and Hippo Campus to headline Grandma’s Marathon concerts

Entertainment Lineup 50th Grandmas Marathon DULUTH, Minn. – Soul Asylum and Hippo Campus will headline concerts for Grandma’s Marathon weekend. Ten Minnesota-based bands will take the stage at Bayfront Festival Park in June 2026 to help celebrate 50 years of Grandma’s Marathon. “We were searching for acts that felt authentic to who we are and reflective of where we come…

UMD legend and hockey volunteer Dale “Hoagie” Haagenson passes away

Dale “Hoagie” Haagenson (Credit UMD) DULUTH, Minn.– Dale “Hoagie” Haagenson, the longest serving volunteer in UMD athletic history, passed away Tuesday, February 17th. He was 65 years old. Haagenson got his start with UMD men’s hockey in 1981 as a volunteer. The head coach of the Bulldogs, Gus Hendrickson, encouraged Haagenson to join the staff. This decision alone would pioneer…

UMD students celebrate the Lunar New Year

DULUTH, Minn. — Students of different cultural backgrounds gathered at UMD to celebrate the Lunar New Year. 2026 marks the Year of the Fire Horse, symbolizing energy, independence, action, and forward momentum. The event featured festive décor, traditional dishes, and cultural activities honoring zodiac traditions and the diversity of Asian culture. “I think it’s really important to me and also…

Superior Choice Credit Union to hold penny memorial

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Superior Choice Credit Union will hold a memorial for the penny this Thursday, Feb. 19. Last fall, the United States Mint ended production of the one-cent coin. In honor of its long-standing place in American history, SCCU has decided to give the penny a special send-off. Throughout the day, the credit union will host three commemorative sessions…

Power outages expected due to heavy wet snow fall

DULUTH, Minn. – FOX 21 Chief Meteorologist Rusty Mehlberg is predicting snow, sleet, freezing rain, and rain to fall across our region Tuesday (Jan 17) evening into Wednesday (Jan 18) morning.   These storms very likely will cause at least scattered power outages. Stay safe – Ways to be prepared for an outage: • Keep a “Lights Out” kit in an…

Cloquet High recognized for Unified Program

CLOQUET, Minn. — Cloquet High School received some national recognition from Special Olympics North America. Cloquet High is now recognized as a Unified Champion School, one of only five in Minnesota. The unified school program brings students with and without disabilities together for classes, sports, and events. In celebration of the honor the school hosted a variety of events, including a…

Birkie Week sees some changes due to weather

HAYWARD, Wisc. — American Birkebeiner organizers have announced a few adjustments due to the weather. They have postponed Wednesday’s (2/18) Open Track to Thursday (2/19). Events that are scheduled to take place Thursday on Hayward’s Main Street, will now be held at the American Birkebeiner Trailhead in Cable, Wisconsin. Event Director Kristy Maki says the Birkie trail is in great…

Lake Superior Zoo illuminates winter nights

DULUTH, Minn. — The Lake Superior Zoo is hosting multiple luminary night walks. The walks began over the weekend with 1,000 glowing ice luminaries lining the zoo’s walking paths, creating a magical winter experience for visitors. While warmer temps have caused many of those ice luminaries to melt, staff have replaced many of them with traditional paper bag luminaries to…

Vaughn Public Library wrapping up renovations

ASHLAND, Wis.– Wisconsin’s oldest operating library in Ashland is reaching the tail end of its recent renovation. The 138-year-old Vaughn Public Library hasn’t been renovated in 40 years. The 8-million-dollar project was made possible by a referendum that was passed several years ago, as well as several grants. The Library Director said, the 138-year-old building has a lot of catching…

Large group protesting for democracy on Presidents’ Day

CLOQUET, Minn.– Throughout the day on Presidents Day, around 100 people protested in Moose Lake and Cloquet. We the People Cloquet Area Indivisible held the protest to oppose the current administration. It mainly centered around themes of No Kings, ICE enforcement, and what they described as “injustice against democracy.” “Our democracy is being broken by a President of the United States…

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,…

Escape the Bong returns for its eighth year

SUPERIOR, Wis. — If you’re looking for a different type of activity this Valentine’s weekend, Escape the Bong is back for its eighth year. Mobile Escape Rooms have transformed the Bong Historical Center in Superior into four different escape rooms. From trying to get your stolen high school mascot back to trying to find your way out of a prohibition-era…

2nd and 3rd graders go “sled to sled” at 19th annual Ikidarod race

DULUTH, Minn.– Over the course of a month, 2nd and 3rd graders at North Shore Community school have been training their brains for all things sled dog. The students spent Friday outdoors to have one final test, on their very own “Ikidarod” “As you can as you did see, we did a sled dog race, and the kids were like,…

Benedictine Health honors veterans for Valentine’s Day

DULUTH, Minn.– Veterans felt all the love ahead of Valentine’s Day, because of an opportunity to connect with fellow former service members. The lovely gathering is part of an initiative to reduce social isolation among veterans. American Red Cross, and Minnesota Power partnered up to show their appreciation through gifts as well as conversation. The event was filled with laughs,…

Duluth City Council holds study session on future of skywalk system

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth City Council held a meeting regarding the future of the city’s skywalk system. After six months of analysis, consultants from MIG and Civilis identified accessibility challenges, declining foot traffic, high vacancy rates, and ongoing security concerns throughout the skywalk system. They emphasized that the skywalk is nearing or has surpassed its useful life. The consultants…

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory prepares for Valentines Day

DULUTH, Minn. — Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is getting ready for Valentine’s Day. The local shop says its most popular treats during the holiday are chocolate-covered strawberries and handcrafted truffles. There are options for people who aren’t big fans of chocolate, including salted caramel and assorted candy bags. The shop will also offer dipped dog bones for those celebrating Valentine’s…

Governor Evers visits Ashland to address cost of living issues with community members

ASHLAND, Wis.– Governor Evers visited Ashland Thursday to address what he is calling a cost-of-living problem across the state. The governor met with numerous community members to talk about how it is becoming a growing issue. Attendees expressed the need for increasing k-12 school funding, and prioritizing safe, clean, drinking water. This follows a legislative agenda letter, urging legislators to…

Another scuffle at UMD Turning Point USA table leads to police call

Screen shot of Turning Point USA bottle throwing incident on UMD Campus 1/29/2026 DULUTH, Minn. — Two people have been ticketed for an incident that happened at a Turning Point USA table in the University of Minnesota – Duluth Kirby Student Union. On January 29, 2026, UMD police reports say student Lars Morris called one of the people sitting at…

College students prepare for upcoming career fair

DULUTH, Minn. — Fuse Duluth partnered with the UMD Career Center to host the second annual “Ready for the Real World Series.” The free event was open to all college students across the Twin Ports, not just UMD students. Local employers, including AMSOIL, Cirrus Aircraft, and Maurices, hosted roundtable discussions focused on interview skills, personal branding, and negotiation strategies. Students…

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…

Explore MN conference reflects on statewide tourism impact

DULUTH, Minn.– A two-day conference is underway, and it’s reflecting on how tourism has impacted the state. Over 500 tourism professionals are at the DECC to discuss how each county can shine. The focus is on marketing, AI and evolving the tourism industry. One representative said, getting together to network does wonders for smaller communities. “It’s exciting to welcome people…

Lakeside Early Learning advocates for emergency childcare plans

DULUTH, Minn.–A devastating pipe burst at a local childcare center has sparked a bigger conversation surrounding childcare operations in the region. Providers, senators and commissioners met today to discuss potential emergency plans, to prevent closures. The conference comes after the pipe burst at lakeside early learning, which happened late January and resulted in a 6-day closure. Lakeside Early Learning staff…

7 West TapHouse hosts fundraiser for victims of Hermantown house explosion

DULUTH, Minn. — Nearly two weeks after an explosion at the Green Acres Townhomes killed two residents and affected others, 7 West TapHouse is serving up pints to help. The 7 West TapHouse on Maple Grove Rd is hosting a fundraiser to support residents impacted by the large blast. Proceeds of pint sales from Blacklist Brewing, Castle Danger Brewing and…

Many Rivers Montessori Middle Schoolers host Empty Bowl Fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — Students at Many Rivers Montessori Middle School held their annual “Empty Bowl” fundraiser. Throughout the school year, the students created handmade bowls for their student-run Empty Bowl event. Each piece was thrown on the wheel, glazed, and fired at the school. The students also planned and ran the event themselves, from start to finish. Every purchase included…

Hundreds gather at Duluth Curling Club to support Cory Thiesse and Kory Dropkin

DULUTH, Minn.– Two Duluthians made history Tuesday morning, by becoming the first USA duo to take home a medal in mixed doubles curling. And in their hometown of Duluth, hundreds gathered at the Duluth Curling Club to see it happen. “We knew it was just going to be explosive in here,” said Nicole Caldwell, Events Manager at the Duluth Curling…

Duluth political expert speaks on the weight of modern-day endorsements

DULUTH, Minn. — With caucuses around Duluth now complete, all eyes are turning towards the next steps in political campaigns across the state, but in an era of diverse and divisive politics, how much does an organization’s endorsement really mean? “The Republicans tend to stick to them a little more than the Democrats,” said Dr. Cindy Rugeley, an associate professor…