Community

Giving Tree Program Helping to Brighten the Holidays

Event Lets Patients Feel at Home

DULUTH, Minn.-Being in the hospital at this time of the year can be tough, but this year some local elementary students tried to make that experience a little bit brighter. Students from Lester Park Elementary School visited patients at Essentia Health earlier today to hand out ornaments they made in class while also delivering decorated trees. The tradition has been…

Play Gym Provides Fun Space for Little Northlanders

The city of Duluth invites little Northlanders to a free space of their own.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Parents looking to give their kids a space to play and meet others their age can now stop by one local spot. The Duluth Heights Community Center is hosting Play Gym, a free time open to preschool aged kids and parents. The event welcomes Northland families to come in, enjoy a warm space, and spend some quality time. On goers told FOX21 Play…

Two Harbors High School Students to Host Civility Summit

DECA Program Creates Civility Summit for Community

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Two Harbors High School students are working together to create a better environment for Northlanders. The school’s DECA program has created a Civility Summit they’re hosting on Friday, January 26. This summit is open to schools throughout the Northland, local businesses and residents. So far, more than 600 Northlanders have been invited. Students say the goal…

Crafting Holiday Cocktails with JJ Astor

Cooking Connection: Hot Buttered Rum

DULUTH, Minn. – The holiday season is here and Christmas is just four days away, with New Year’s Eve not far behind. For this week’s Cooking Connection we’re focusing on holiday drinks. FOX 21 Meteorologist William Seay got some tips to step up his bartending game. JJ Astor Food and Beverage Manager Kai Soderberg showed William how to make Hot…

Busy Holiday Travel in the Northland

The Duluth International Airport's main runaway is open just in time for holiday travel.

DULUTH, Minn.- This added snowfall is a sure sign a white Christmas is upon us in just five days and with that countdown comes the busy holiday travel. At the Duluth International Airport the main runway has been under construction for much of this year. Which forced planes to land on a much smaller runway, causing delays and diverted planes to…

Vets Get Big Boost Today

4,000 Meals Supplied for Needy Vets

SUPERIOR, Wis.-Homeless and low income veterans got an extra help today after 4,000 meals and 200 blankets were dropped off for them at the Richard I Bong Veterans Historical Center. The event is all part of program run by Kern and Kompany, along with the Duluth Airshow, who saw a need for undeserved vets. This may not by a one…

WLSSD Treecycling Program Begins Dec. 21

"Treecycling drop off sites are conveniently located in many neighborhoods, providing the opportunity for residents to Treecycle quickly and easily," said Anderson.

DULUTH, Minn. – Western Lake Superior Sanitary District and partners have kicked off the annual Treecyling program. The program is to encourage area residents to recycle their fresh-cut holiday trees. Multiple locations will be available 24-hours a day throughout the region. “Holiday trees, like yard and garden waste, are banned from the trash in Minnesota,” said Karen Anderson, WLSSD’s director…

Talents of Young Musicians Featured at Upcoming Christmas Musicale

DCHS Hosts 2nd Annual Christmas Musicale

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The talents of local youth are being featured in a concert this weekend in Superior. The Douglas County Historical Society is hosting the 2nd Annual Christmas Musicale. The performance is taking place Friday, December 22 at 7:00 p.m. This year, musicians Austin Engelhardt & Gabrielle Koepke a Violin Virtuoso Duo, The Soul Sisters, Izzy Bromdahl and the…

Avoiding Pet Decorating Dangers this Season

Staff at Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth Offer Tips on How to Keep Your Pets Safe this Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – By now many folks are probably rocking around the Christmas tree, but did you know your holiday decorations could be a danger to some in the household? Michelle Sternberg, Marketing and Communications Manager and Lindsay Snustad, Executive Director of Animal Allies Humane Society visited FOX 21 Local News to offer a few tips on keeping your furry friends…

Busy Season for Candy Shops

National Hard Candy Day is Celebrated on Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Twin Ports – Candy lovers had the chance to splurge on their sweet tooth Tuesday. Tuesday, December 19 is National Hard Candy Day! The staff at Sweeden Sweets say now is one of their busiest times of the year with parents coming in the door looking for stocking stuffers and other sweet gifts to give. Hard candy first became popular…

Duluth School District Makes Cuts to Budget

The District Cut More Than $1.5 Million; a $409,500 Deficit Remains

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth School District had a $2 million deficit going into the next fiscal year. Tuesday night, they made a decision about where to cut. The reductions make $1.59 million in cuts to the district’s budget. ISD 709 will carry a deficit into next year of $409,500. Layoffs are not part of the budget cuts at this…

‘Habitat for Humanity’ Decorates Tree for Superior Family

The Tree Will Help Celebrate Their First Christmas in Their New Home

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A family was recently able to purchase a home through Habitat for Humanity. They’re expected to move in before the end of the year. Tuesday, volunteers came to their new home on Weeks Avenue to help the VanHolbeck family deck the halls for the holidays by decorating their Christmas tree. “This is a big deal. It’s their…

“Make Every Child Smile” Toy Drive Giving Out Presents

Toys Will Be Available at the Iron Mug in Morgan Park on Thursday from 3-6 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – The “Make Every Child Smile” toy drive will be giving out presents this Thursday, December 21st. The toys will be available from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Iron Mug in Morgan Park. Families can grab a present or two for their kids and wrap them right at the location. Organizers say it’s another option for families…

Toyland Express Provides for Families in Need

The Salvation Army plans to serve nearly 2,300 families during the event.

DULUTH, Minn.-  The Salvation Army is helping put presents under the tree for nearly 2,300 Northland families this week. Families that are going through tough times met with the non-profit and are now welcomed to shop from the donated toys, for their children. The Salvation Army told FOX21 this event is a well run machine which relies on many volunteers….

St. Louis County Board Approves 2018 Budget

St. Louis County serves 200,000 residents spread across 7.000 square miles

DULUTH, Minn. – The St. Louis County Board has unanimously approved its 2018 budget. The budget, $397,918,261, will direct additional resources to substance abuse and mental health, in addition to the funding of core services including public health and human services, public works, tax payer services and public safety. The budget will also make additional investments to support families providing…

Lake Superior Art Glass Gives Options for Creative Gifts

Artists Teach Several Glass Blowing Classes

DULUTH, Minn. – With less than a week until Christmas Day, it is time to finish Christmas gift shopping. Some local shops are happy to help with that. One in Duluth is Lake Superior Art Glass. Their gallery features the work of more than 60 artists. Classes are also offered for patrons. Currently, several classes are taught each week. Lake…

Duluth Pack Marks 135 Years in Business

Northland Uncovered: Duluth Pack

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland is full of history and stories of how the area was developed. One local company got its start helping the men who built the area. Duluth Pack is the oldest canvas and leather pack and bag maker in the United States. The company is now marking a milestone by celebrating 135 years in Duluth. The…

Fire Breaks Out at Rainy Lake Oil Company Facility

No Injuries Were Reported from the Fire

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. – A fire broke out Monday evening shortly after 7:00 at the Rainy Lake Oil Company operations and office in International Falls. The fire is contained and there is no threat to other nearby structures. No injuries were reported from the fire. Fire officials from the International Falls Rural Fire Units and International Falls City Fire Trucks…

This Year’s Salvation Army Seasonal Campaigns Will Soon Be Over

Super One Foods Will Match Up to $50,000 for Red Kettle Campaign

DULUTH, Minn. – Only six days left for this season’s Salvation Army Red Kettle Drive. Super One Foods is helping by agreeing to match up to $50,000. The match will happen at thirteen Super One Locations in Duluth, Superior, Two Harbors, Cloquet and the Iron Range. Salvation Army officials say the match will go a long way in helping them…

Experts Warn Pets are More Than Presents

Experts warn Northlanders a lot of work and money goes into taking care of a pet.

DULUTH, Minn.- Seeing a puppy under a Christmas tree might be exciting but local veterinarians want to remind Northlanders, a pet is for life not just for Christmas. Experts told FOX21 gifting a pet as a surprise is not a responsible idea. The owner should be apart of the process by picking out a breed that fits their lifestyle. “What breed…

Ugly Christmas Sweaters Tradition and Competition in Northland

Do you have your ugly Christmas sweater picked out?

DULUTH, Minn.- Shops and homes around the Northland are dressed in the holiday spirit, another popular way to go all out this season is an ugly Christmas sweater. A shop manager told FOX21 ugly Christmas sweaters are a fun way to come together as a community. The decorative clothing are popular for holiday gatherings. “Some people have contests; to see…

The Duluth Bethel Receives Grant to Preserve History

The non-profit is asking the public to donate items in remembrance of the Bethel.

DULUTH, Minn.-  The Duluth Bethel has been serving the Twin Ports for 144 years, with the help of a state grant the non–profit is hoping to preserve its history. The Bethel received $7,650 grant from the Minnesota Historical Society. Now the non–profit is asking Northlanders to share their memories of the Bethel. The donations could include photographs, books, and recordings….

Epic Restaurant and Lounge Announces It Will Close Saturday

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Epic Restaurant and Lounge announced they will be closing the restaurant on Saturday, Dec. 23. The announcement came on their Facebook page Monday. “Unfortunately, for both business and personal reasons we find that we need to close our doors to regular dining business on the close of business on Saturday evening, 12/23/17,” the Facebook post stated. Epic…

Last Days to Vote for Christmas Light Displays

Lighting Challenge Winners Announced Friday

DULUTH, Minn. – With one week until Christmas, snow on the ground, lights on homes and decorations in yards, it’s not hard to tell many Northlanders are in the holiday spirit. One tradition keeping that spirit thriving is the Christmas Lighting Challenge. The challenge is put on by A Sweet Event and this year more than 80 homes are involved….

St. Luke’s Cardiologist Gives Heart Health Tips for Winter Months

Avoiding Heart Attacks in the Snow

DULUTH, Minn. – With recent snowfall and more in the forecast, doctors are giving warnings for those headed outside. Without previous exercise, many bodies aren’t ready for snowy conditions. Dr. Disha Mookherjee with St. Luke’s Cardiology Associates says some elderly patients can find themselves shoveling 16-20 pounds of snow as they take on the responsibilities of being a homeowner. Dr….

Scuba Santa Dives Into the Northland

Under the Bright Nights promotion you can get an admission discount

DULUTH, Minn. -Santa Claus came all the way from the North Pole and made a stop at the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth. This is the first year the Aquarium has featured something like this. It’s a community effort, because volunteers from all over the state help make this possible. In order to scuba dive, Santa must have cold water…

Highland String Quartet Performs At United Protestant Church

United Protestant Church has been around since Morgan Park was built

DULUTH, Minn. -The pews at the United Protestant Church were filled for a joyful performance. Bill Bastian and the Highland String Quartet set the tone at the annual concert. The church is celebrating 100 years and Chester Johnson has been a member for about 80. He says the concert a tradition that the people appreciate. “We like to be prominent…

Story of Jesus Comes Alive At United Church of Two Harbors

Once the scene ends darkness comes so characters can switch the scene

TWO HARBORS, Minn. -The story of the birth of Jesus has been told many times and for the last three years the United Church of Two Harbors has brought that story to life. The woman behind this live story says she was wanted to bring it to Two Harbors because it didn’t exist. The birth of Jesus is depicted in one…

Christmas City Express Train Ride Closes Its Season

According to Train Museum Officials, About 1,000 Passengers Rode Each Week

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lake Superior Railroad Museum just had the final night of their holiday train ride. At the event, families watch a performance of the “Christmas City Express” story acted out by the authors and Santa Claus. Then, they board a decorated train and ride it from the Depot to Fitger’s and back, passing Bentleyville along the way….

Hermantown Community Church Lights It Up

The light show began on Dec. 1 and at least 700 cars have showed up since then

HERMANTOWN, Minn. -Hermantown is a city of lights. The Hermantown Community Church wanted to spread Christmas joy with a colorful blessing. You can sit in your car, sip hot chocolate or apple cider and watch the lights in sync with Christmas music. “One of the things we wanted to see and has been happening is just kind of an opportunity for families to…

Handmade Holiday Market on Display in Lincoln Park

More Than 30 Artisans Showed Off Their Unique Products

DULUTH, Minn. – The Handmade Holiday Market in Lincoln Park was the place to shop local for the holidays on Saturday. More than thirty vendors showcased their creations at the Duluth Folk School and Duluth Pottery. Shoppers could find anything from porcupine earrings to locally brewed coffee. “A month ago, we didn’t even know we were doing this and somebody…

Superior Community Rallies Around Family For A Christmas Surprise

SUPERIOR, Wis. -The Superior High School class of 1993 is a tight knit group even after 24 years. So when they learned that a friend’s cancer spread they took action. “You see somebody in trouble, you see somebody hurting you want to help,” said Brian Lammi, Lynn Rae’s classmate. Classmates set up an online fundraiser. “Honestly within four hours we…

Cathedral School Gives Back to Hurricane Victims

Students sorted the clothing by gender and age group

SUPERIOR, Wis. – It’s been a little over three months since hurricanes devastated parts of Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico and these students were ready to step up and help. One by one these fifth graders loaded up a truck that is an example of the fruits of their labor. Nineteen students in Amber Nielsen’s class collected boxes of clothing,…

Johnson’s Bakery Preparing for Holiday Rush

Johnson's Bakery Has Been a Part of the Northland for 72 Years

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s an increase of busy bakeries in the Northland this time of year. One of those bakeries happens to be Johnson’s Bakery in West Duluth. For the past 72 years, Johnson’s has been a staple in many Northland homes. Owner Scott Johnson and his staff are busy every day mixing up and baking thousands of cookies and…

Local Organizations Join Forces For Veterans In Need

Kern and Kompany, Bong Veterans Center and the St. Louis County Veterans Service Office all helped with transportation costs.

DULUTH, Minn. -Four thousand homeless or low income veterans who may not know where their next meal is coming from are getting assistance this holiday season. Kern and Kompany and the Duluth Airshow is partnering with the Bong Veterans Center and the St. Louis County Veterans Service Office to provide Northland veterans with food. “The hope is that we’re going…

Little Northlanders Shop at Holly Jolly

The Holly Jolly Santa Shop helps Northland families put presents under the tree.

DULUTH, Minn.- Little Northlanders in Lincoln Park crossed off all the items off their holiday shopping list. The shoppers attended the 6th annual Holly Jolly Santa Shop at First Covenant Church in Duluth. With around 1,000 donated gifts, and the help of little elves, children go around.. picking out presents for their family. Coordinators said the annual event helps families in need…

Road Safety Tips for the Winter Season

Local law enforcement remind Northlanders of safe winter driving tips.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Police are offering Northlanders some safety tips when going out in wintry roads and holiday traffic. Local law enforcement want to remind Northlanders during the winter, always give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Taking it slow on the roads will help ensure safety. The snowy conditions can cause may issues. “With snowbanks, also comes pedestrian issues,”…

Proctor Public Schools Computers Hit With Virus

Proctor Public Schools has hired a company, Proven Data, and have requested expedites service to repair the files

PROCTOR, Minn, -Proctor Public School leaders were facing an unexpected situation when staff arrived to work on Monday. A virus attacked all the school computers that were left on over the weekend. Staff members tell us they believe the source of the problem came from a virtual log in. Files on Microsoft Word and pictures were locked and encrypted which…

Northland’s Snowmobile Season Is In Full Effect

Minnesota has 22,000 miles of state and grant-in-aid trails

DULUTH, Minn. -The recent cold and snow has many people excited to rev up their engines and bring out the snowmobiles. The state of Minnesota requires registration for all snowmobiles. Over at Duluth Lawn & Sport staff say they have more than 200 sleds on site. The trail oriented machines and utility sleds have been the most popular leading up to this…

Mont du Lac Offers Major Discount on Season Passes

DULUTH, Minn. – Snowfall this week has excited winter sports enthusiasts all over the Northland. Mont du Lac Resort is offering a special on season passes through the weekend. Season passes are priced at $99, which amounts to about $250 in savings. Passholder Perks include Passholder Tuesday – bring a friend for $5.00 (rental not included), 10% off cabin rental,…

Lake Superior Zoo Welcomes Newest Addition

Grip the Raven is Lake Superior Zoo's newest resident

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lake Superior Zoo welcomed in it’s newest critter on Thursday.  Grip the Raven is making the zoo his new home, after he was brought into Wildwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation after being injured. The Lake Superior Zoo took in Grip, and are taking good care of him. “He’s pretty smart, so I’m always having to think of new…

Union Gospel Mission celebrates 95 years

The organization hosted a lasagna dinner tonight, courtesy of the St. John's Catholic Church

DULUTH, Minn. – The Union Gospel Mission celebrated 95 years of helping the community on Thursday. The organization held its annual lasagna dinner at its facility in Downtown Duluth. Community members were able to have a sit down meal with their friends. “The Union Gospel Mission has been here for 95 years, serving food, and providing shelter and providing hope…

Duluth’s Largest Hospital Has Plans For Expansion

Initial planning started six months ago and Dr. Herman says this expansion will help Duluth grow

DULUTH, Minn. -While exact plans will be announced next year we do know Essentia is looking at everything from rebuilding entire structures to up and down remodels. The goal is to dramatically improve the quality of care for patients while also meeting the changing needs of the next generation of healthcare professionals. Essentia CEO Dr. David Herman tells us current facilities are outdated and uncomfortably cramped especially with modern robotics…

Therapy Dogs Offer Relief For UW-Superior Students

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Staying up late and spending hours studying for a final exam can take its toll on a college student, so UW–Superior (UWS) is offering a temporary solution. UWS is bringing students relief with therapy dogs as finals week approaches. When students needed to get a well deserved break they were greeted by therapeutic four-legged friends. One student called…

Plow Drivers Power Through To Clear the Snow

Operators plowed the shoulders in preparation for additional snow

DULUTH, Minn. – It was another busy day for plow drivers still cleaning up from this week’s snow storm. The biggest snowfall so far this season had trucks clearing 99 routes throughout the eight county district. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) crews applied a sand and salt mixture to try to keep the roads from getting too slippery. In Duluth the lake effect…

UW-Superior Receives Narcan Kits

Safety officers will administer the drug

SUPERIOR, Wis. -Nine campuses in the University of Wisconsin system will be provided with free Narcan nasal spray, this includes UW-Superior. Law enforcement and campus security will receive the spray to treat opioid overdoses. “Narcan is a first line of defense against an overdose, so it can potentially save lives here on campus by getting that immediate dose of Narcan until first responders…