Community

Duluth Public Library hosts escape room for teens

Northland teens worked together to solve the puzzle and escape the library

DULUTH, Minn. – Some teenagers simulated what might happen if they were locked inside the library.  The Mount Royal branch of the Duluth Public Library hosted a library-themed escape room puzzle on Friday. Teens worked together to find clues, and figure out how to escape the library in under 25 minutes. “There’s a whole ton of teamwork that happens here,”…

Post-holiday exercise options

9Round Fitness 30 minute Kickboxing might help knock you back into shape

DULUTH, Minn. – After the holidays is when most people start feeling like it’s time to hit the gym.A new kind of gym has opened up in Duluth recently. 9Round Fitness is a 30 minute kickboxing studio, where folks can work with a trainer, and have a slightly different workout experience than your typical gym. “The whole thing with kickboxing…

Duluth rink rats brave the cold for the love of hockey

Well below-zero temps won't stop these little athletes

DULUTH, Minn. – Well, it may be cold outside but that’s not stopping hearty Northlanders from keeping busy out there. Being that it’s Minnesota, kids don’t seem to mind that it’s a few degrees below zero. FOX21 caught up with some young rink rats playing a game of pick-up hockey at the Glen Avon hockey rinks. “It’s cold, but, I…

Northland businesses prepare for New Year’s Eve celebrations

Liquor stores are sure to be busy this weekend

SUPERIOR, Wisc. –  Now that Christmas is out of the way, it’s time to start to think about those New Year’s Eve plans. Liquor stores are obviously a major stop for many people getting ready for the celebration. Stores are getting rid of the Christmas gifts sets to make room for the champagne. Employees say this time of year is…

Island Lake Inn Announces Closure

DULUTH, Minn. – The owner of the Island Lake Inn have announced they will be closing, effective immediately. According to a Facebook post on the restaurant’s page, they will open for one last day, which will be Sunday, Dec. 31. Owners cited a growing family and a military deployment of a manager as a few reasons they will be closing…

Jay Cooke State Park Has Activities to Keep You Busy This Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – Jay Cooke State Park will be offering several free naturalist programs during the upcoming holiday time period.  All programs are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to enter the park.  They can be purchased upon arrival.  $7/day or $35/annual.  Attached is our program flier for the winter, but here are the highlights for…

Sea Smoke Appears Over Lake Superior

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Mother Nature is putting on a show in Minnesota. Sea smoke was seen rising over Lake Superior on Christmas Day. Sea smoke, also called steam fog or frost smoke, appears when really cold air slides over a warmer expanse of water. Lake Superior’s temperature was about 35 degrees and the air temperature was 9 below zero…

Northland Man Share His Story Of His Very Own Christmas Miracle

Michael Sylvester was adopted and plans to have genetic testing to see if he carries the gene.

DULUTH, Minn. – After nearly 14 years on the job with the U.S. Postal Service Michael Sylvester is what some may call a walking Christmas miracle. It’s a far cry from where he was back on Dec. 16, 2016. “I noticed I was having some chest pain,” said Sylvester. “I thought it was indigestion.” Michael then did something that isn’t…

Northland Food Bank Needs More Volunteers

Volunteers started with brand flakes and scooped two and half pounds into every bag.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank in Duluth was busy with volunteers at a repacking event. The people volunteering equal to six full time positions at the Food Bank. They are important in making sure the Food Bank runs smoothly. “So we’re just asking folks to come in and volunteer and help us get this food…

Bentleyville Starts the Teardown Process

Volunteers can show up between 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. from Tuesday through Sunday this week, at Bayfront Park to assist with teardown.

DULUTH, Minn. – After several weeks of entertainment it’s now time for the Bentleyville Tour of Lights to come to an end. Organizers say it’s time to dig in and get to work with the teardown process. Many volunteers have been helping out since Sept. so now they can get back to their normal lives. When it comes to setting…

UPDATE: Victims Identified in Fatal Hibbing Fire, Another Life Claimed from Injuries

The Fire Broke Out Tuesday, December 26, 2017 Shortly After 1:00 a.m.

UPDATE: Authorities have identified the victims as 63-year-old Patricia Lynn Gillitzer, 67-year-old Steven Jon Gillitzer, and their grandson 9-year-old Todd Gillizter Jr., their 3-year-old grandson Isaiah was being treated for injuries at HCMC has reportedly died from his injuries. According to a press release from the Hibbing Fire Department, Steven Gillitzer was a retired Hibbing Fire Captain and served on…

Midday Update 12-27-17

Local News and Weather Headlines for Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Categories: Community, News Update Tags: Bentleyville, Brett Scott, cold, Headlines, Local News, Minnesota Power, News, temperatures, Update, weather

Celebrating with CASDA this New Year’s Eve

CASDA Wants to Celebrate this New Year's Eve With You by Supporting Services to Victims and Survivors of Violence

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – The Center Against Sexual and Domestic Abuse (CASDA) is excited to announce the 9th Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration, “Behind the Mask,” will take place Sunday, December 31st. CASDA will also be celebrating the kickoff to their 30th anniversary of serving the Twin Ports. Tickets are $50 per person in advance, or $60 at the door. Advance…

Keeping the Pack Taken Care Of

Packare was Founded Nearly Five Years Ago by Duluthian Alicia Skjoelsvold

DULUTH, Minn. – Everything but lions, tigers and bears help keep Alicia Skjoelsvold’s business alive. “Kitties, pocket pets, sugar gliders, guinea pigs, rabbits, bearded dragons,” said Skjoelsvold. “We do pet sitting and dog walking.” The native Duluthian decided five years ago to leave her dream job; reality had set in and routine became a bore. “This time of year we…

Taking Shelter at Safe Haven

Experts say women in abusive situations tend to not leave this time of year.

DULUTH, Minn.- According to the National Resource of Domestic Violence Center calls of domestic abuse decline during the holidays. Advocates with Safe Haven Shelter and Resource Center say many reasons play a factor into victims staying in unhealthy relationships during the holidays. This year the safe haven shelter has serviced over 540 families, but a woman’s advocate says if children…

Midday Update 12-26-17

Local News and Weather Headlines for Tuesday, December 26, 2017

Categories: Community, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, christmas, Headlines, Joey Norton, News, Recycle, Tree, Updates, weather, WLSSD

Celebrate New Years Eve at the Duluth Depot

The New Years Eve Celebration Starts at 8:00 p.m. at the Duluth Depot

DULUTH, Minn. – Ring in 2018 by joining your friends and neighbors at the New Year’s’ Eve Party at Duluth’s Historic Union Depot. Ken Buehler, Executive Director of the North Shore Scenic Railroad says this is the biggest New Year’s Eve Party in the Twin Ports. The party takes over the whole Duluth Depot complex. Doors open for happy hour at…

Northland Uncovered: Duluth Bethel Receives Historical Grant

Duluth Bethel Has New Hope For Preserving the Past

DULUTH, Minn. – Historical buildings aren’t too hard to come by in the Northland. But one in Duluth is also home to an organization that’s been around for nearly 150 years, and now, Duluth Bethel has new hope for preserving their past. The story begins in 1912 when the notable Duluth building was built. Duluth Bethel still stands tall on the hill,…

Morning Update 12-26-17

Local News and Weather Headlines for Tuesday, December 26, 2017

Categories: Community, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, cold, fire, Headlines, hibbing, Joey Norton, Morning, News, temperatures, Update, weather

Christmas Movie Trivia Night

Silos Restaurant Guests Competed for Prizes by Answering Movie Questions

DULUTH, Minn. – Silos Restaurant at Pier B Resort hosted a Christmas movie trivia night for all their guests. While competing in the game, players were asked multiple choice questions about classic Christmas movies. They wrote their answers on score cards and competed for prizes. “In the movie ‘A Christmas Story’ did the mother of Ralphie give Ralphie’s dad a…

Duluth Firefighters Celebrate Christmas at Their Station

They Made a Holiday Meal and Ate Together as a Family

DULUTH, Minn. – A lot of people in the Northland were working this Christmas including police and fire departments across the region. Duluth firefighters say Christmas is just another day on the job for them. They still have work to do and calls to respond to, but that didn’t stop them from sitting down together to eat Christmas dinner. At…

Music Therapy Providing Care to Hospice Patients

If you stopped into one of Natalie's sessions it would look like; just two friends and a guitar, catching up during a shared love of songs.

DULUTH, Minn.- Music brings many people together especially in hospice care. Music therapists play many roles in soothing and caring for patients. Experts say the songs can also help patient’s family members. Natalie Hest is a certified music therapist working for Essentia Health at the Solvay Hospice House. “As a music therapist I say I have the gift of time and…

Tips for Recycling Old Tech Devices

Responsible Ways to Recycle Old Electronic Devices with the Help of Best Buy

DULUTH, Minn. – Best Buy Mobile Expert Zach Creger offers a few tips for those looking to get rid of your old, out-of-date electronics. Best Buy will recycle or even trade in old electronics. Devices with heating elements will not be accepted. With TVs and monitors, a $25 dollar fee is charged for the item to be recycled. If folks are getting…

Midday Update 12-25-17

Local News and Weather Making Headlines on Monday, December 25, 2017

Categories: Community, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, christmas, Entertainment, Fun, Gloria Dei Church, Local, Morning, News, Update, weather

Church celebrates “Awkward Family Christmas” stories

They say it's a fun way to celebrate togetherness and remember that life isn't perfect.

DULUTH, Minn. – Eastridge Community Church added a little holiday twist to their services on Sunday.  They held the “Awkward Family Christmas” series at their church on Arrowhead Road. They shared stories of their own awkward holiday struggles, and how the first Christmas was kind of awkward too. “You know, Jesus was born in a barn. Sometimes we share our Christmas…

KOZLOWSKI HELPING UMD REACH NEW HEIGHTS

BULLDOGS' JUNIOR LEADS WITH PLAY

DULUTH, Minn- It was a season that started with some uncertainty. Being the only non–senior starter returning from last season, UMD point Guard Sammy Kozlowski knew leading this year’s team would fall on her shoulders. Which required adjusting her game, to help facilitate those around her, and the chance has paid off, UMD is 7 and 2 heading into their winter…

Last-minute shoppers pick out presents for pets

A Place for Fido was the place to be for dog-lovers this christmas

DULUTH, Minn. – People in Duluth were out in search of that one last thing on their list this Christmas Eve. A Place for Fido in the Fitger’s complex had folks coming in and picking up gifts for that special member of the family…the dogs! Co-owner Jamie Parent says pets always appreciate a good gift, and it can give them…

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church Looks Forward to New Year with New Hope

Almost two years after the fire, Gloria Dei plans to rebuild

DULUTH, MINN.-  It’s been almost two years since Gloria Dei Lutheran Church caught fire but this Christmas they are looking forward to the future, instead of the past. This week the church is expected to receive their permit from the city to begin construction and to celebrate Gloria Dei held a groundbreaking prayer on Christmas Eve.   Categories: Community, News,…

Grinch Snow Sculpture on 21st Avenue East in Duluth

Sculpture Is At The Home of School Board Member Harry Welty

DULUTH, Minn. – A snow sculpture of the Grinch and his dog Max can be seen at the corner of 21st Avenue East and East Fourth Street in Duluth. There is also a sign that says “Keep Whoville Great Again.” The creation is at the house of outgoing Duluth School Board member Harry Welty. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest…

VFW Christmas Dinner Spreads Holiday Cheer

Dinner Provides Event For People Who Can't Be With Family on the Holiday

DULUTH, Minn. – Across the Northland, families are spending time together to celebrate Christmas Eve, but some families can’t be together on the holiday. The VFW in Duluth’s Lincoln Park neighborhood provided a free Christmas Eve dinner, open to everyone who would otherwise be alone on the holiday. For more than three decades, the VFW Post 137 has served Christmas…

Trailfitters Shares The Best Clothing To Stay Warm

Trailfitters says people are mostly looking for winter down jackets.

DULUTH, Minn. – Staying warm in the Northland can come down to the right clothing. Trailfitters in Duluth says that layers are essential to hold the warm air in. The type of material you buy can also determine if you’ll stay warm and dry. Cotton will keep you cold if it gets wet. While wool and synthetics won’t. “We get a…

CHUM Community Vigil Remembers Those Affected By Homelessness

CHUM's Street Outreach works with about 150-200 people a year.

DULUTH, Minn. – Nearly 100 people showed up at the steps of City Hall in Duluth for a memorial vigil. It was to honor people who’ve been homeless or who were homeless and died in 2017. “First off, they are people and they’re human beings and families. They’re part of our family. second, many of these folks are forgotten by…

Santa Hands Out Gifts at Benedictine Health Center

Residents and Pre-Schoolers Received the Presents

DULUTH, Minn. – Santa Claus was in town today giving out presents at the Benedictine Health Center. Santa’s presents went to the residents of the center and a class of pre-school kids there. While he’s in Duluth, Santa said that Mrs. Claus is in charge of the North Pole as the elves work on packing his sleigh for Christmas. “You…

Christmas Lighting Challenge Winners Announced

Duluth, Superior, Two Harbors, and Cloquet All Had a "Best Home" and "Best Business" Winners

DULUTH, Minn. – The winners were announced at Bentleyville for the Christmas Lighting Challenge Contest. Duluth, Superior, Cloquet, and Two Harbors each had a “Best Home” and “Best Business” winner. Families voted online for their favorite display after using a map to find more than eighty registered properties. The contest was a lot of fun for Christmas lovers to compete…

Northlanders Have An Option To Prepay 2018 Property Taxes

The St. Louis County Auditor's Office was busy with people calling wanting to pay their taxes early.  

DULUTH, Minn. – Here in the Northland taxpayers are able to pay their 2018 taxes based on their truth and taxation that was mailed out in Nov. By paying these taxes early one can deduct that from their income tax that is filed in April 2018. Officials recommend that all taxpayers speak to an accountant to determine best option. “As…

FIT4MOM Twin Ports Demonstrates Quick Workout for Busy Moms

Active Adventures: FIT4MOM Twin Ports

DULUTH, Minn. – The holiday season is extremely busy for families and sometimes it can be easy to pass on a regular workout routine. One Northland mom, Lisa Filzen, says there are ways to work something no matter how busy you may be. Filzen is the Owner of FIT4MOM Twin Ports. She says they offer a wide range of classes,…

New Communication Tower Ensures Signal for Emergency Responders

The communications tower will help provide a signal that has caused issues for emergency responders in the past.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- A new communications tower will be built in the city of Superior, after to the approval from the state panel. The tower will be built near the intersection of Townline Road and Polish Road on county property. Officials said the signal in that area is spotty. The topography drop off towards the St. Louis River can cause signal problems…

Make Every Child Smile Toy Drive

The toy drive is open for any Northland family in need.

DULUTH, Minn.– Four days until Christmas and Northlanders are busy shopping, the second annual Make Every Child Smile Toy Drive ensures all families can shop. The event is put together by a local entrepreneur Mike Letica. Letica said a Facebook post last year took off and now the toy drive will be an annual event. This year hundreds of gifts…

Salvation Army Still Needs $120,000 to Reach Fundraising Goal

Free Christmas Trees Also Handed Out at Salvation Army Today

DULUTH, Minn.-The Salvation Army needs your help to reach its Red Kettle goal. As of this morning, they have raised $180,000 of their $300,000 goal. Staff said this annual fundraiser is vital to keeping the Salvation Army alive, which helps 15,000 Northlanders every year. “The Red Kettle campaign is the largest single fundraising effort that the Salvation Army does during…