Community

Congressional Candidate Pete Stauber Has New Campaign Headquarters

Headquarters are Located in Hermantown

HERMANTOWN, Minn.-Congressional candidate Pete Stauber has some new digs in Hermantown. The republican, who’s trying to unseat Rep. Rick Nolan, had a grand opening for his campaign headquarters today at 4690 Miller Trunk Highway in Suite 700. The candidate told Fox 21 that he wants his campaign to focus on the issues, rather than what’s been going on in Washington…

Public Invited to Skate with Santa and Rudolph on Dec. 13

DULUTH, Minn. – The public is invited to join Santa, Rudolph and friends for a free ice skating party at the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center on Wednesday, Dec. 13. The event will take place from 6:30-8 p.m. Crafts, treats, science activities, and games will accompany Santa and his reindeer. Limited skates will be available for use. Attendees are asked to…

Superior Police Department Awarded Domestic, Sexual Violence Grant

(Superior Police Dept.) SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Superior Police Department announced Thursday that it has been awarded a U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Violence Against Women (OVW) grant totaling over $440,900 over the next three years. The “OVW Improving Criminal Justice Responses to Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking” grant is designed to encourage partnerships among our…

Eveleth-area Nonprofits Awarded Over $10,000 in Grants

EVELETH, Minn. – Eveleth area nonprofit groups have been awarded more than $10,000 for projects including tutoring, social services, youth activities, and education. The Eveleth Area Community Foundation Fund issued to awards as part of its 2017 grant round. The 2017 recipients are: Volunteers in Education – $2,235 for a volunteer training program in Eveleth and Gilbert The United Way…

Mixing Up Holiday Cocktails with Vikre Distillery

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Cooking Connection, FOX 21’s Brett Scott stopped by Vikre Distillery located in Duluth’s Canal Park to test out a few holiday cocktails. Visitor Experience and Events Manager Chelsy Whittington poured two cocktails from the distillery’s taproom. The Orange Whip includes Ovrevann Aquavit, Bent Paddle Bent Hop Syrup as well as grapefruit, lemon and orange…

Kangaroo Visits FOX 21 Ahead of Ice Fishing Show

Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show Runs Friday through Sunday

DULUTH, Minn. – The Arrowhead Ice Fishing and Winter Show is opening up Friday at the DECC. A big attraction will be an exhibit full of exotic animals. Kevin Vogel, the Owner of Safari North, stopped by FOX 21 to talk about the exhibit. Vogel says people will be able to feed some of the animals and see a wide…

Rise in Impaired Driving During Holiday Season

Local law enforcement are cracking down on driving under the influence this holiday season.

DULUTH, Minn.-Last year in Minnesota 74 people died due to alcohol involved crashes, on Wednesday 74 holiday gifts were handed out at the University of Minnesota Duluth. The event is part of the Towards Zero Death Campaign. Local law officials walked students through field sobriety tests. When participants attempted to complete the tasks wearing the drunk simulation goggles, it put things perspective….

7th annual Evening of the ARTS for CHOICE, unlimited

The program helps adults with disabilities with employment and community inclusion

DULUTH, Minn. – Wednesday was the 7th annual Evening of the ARTS for Choice, unlimited. Choice, unlimited is a day program that helps adults with disabilities find employment and inclusion in their local communities. on Wednesday, the organization shared some of the arts projects they worked on, such as writing and dance. “It’s a sense of accomplishment,” visual arts instructor Maria…

Northland Finnish community celebrates 100 years of independence

Finland declared their independence from Russia in 1917

DULUTH, Minn. – December 6 Finland’s Independence Day, and Northlanders were celebrating. Wednesday is the 100th anniversary of Finland’s independence from Russia in 1917. Northlanders filled the Great Hall at The Depot to celebrate Finnish heritage, listen to music and eat some traditional food “There certainly are a lot of people here,” organizer Arlene Putikka Tucker said. “You go through the phone…

Norshor Theatre Renovations Coming Along

The Theatre will have 650 seats and 195 new lights

DULUTH, Minn. -It’s been 18 months since the major renovations began at the historic Norshor Theatre in downtown Duluth. About 50 people got an update and went on a tour to see how the project is coming along. The restored venue underwent a top to bottom makeover. Our cameras weren’t allowed inside, but there will be new dressing rooms, rehearsal studios and administrative offices. Norshore…

Volunteers Spend Their Day of Caring At Safe Haven Shelter & Resource Center

Several non-profits benefited from the local projects for this Day of Caring Holiday Edition

DULUTH, Minn. – United Way’s Day of Caring lets volunteers pitch in at local non-profits by doing what they do best, volunteer. Safe Haven in Duluth works with women and children who have been affected by domestic violence. Volunteers were in the kitchen helping out and had it smelling like fresh baked cookies. The kids will bring the cookies home and decorate them with their family….

One Northlander is Helping Wildfire Responders

One Northlander with the Red Cross is assisting with the natural disaster in Southern California

DULUTH, Minn.- One Northlander with the American Red Cross packed up to lend a hand in with the growing wildfires in Southern California. Tony Guerra said helping this time of year means a little more. Guerra is managing a five man team heading out Tuesday afternoon to assist responders. Guerra has helped with other wild fire disasters in the past. “That’s what we…

Bent Paddle Relocating Taproom, as Brewery Continues to Expand

Expected to open in early 2018

DULUTH, Minn. – Bent Paddle Brewing Company (BPBC) announced plans for a new taproom earlier this year, but details were not finalized. The brewery has officially announced relocation plans that will move their taproom into a historic space just across the street in early 2018. The taproom will shift to the next block to 1832 Michigan Street, a location formerly…

Superior Shelter to Receive Multiple Puppies from Texas

Anywhere from Seven to Seventeen Puppies will soon be arriving at the Douglas County Humane Society

SUPERIOR, Minn. – In the coming days the Douglas County Humane Society in Superior will be receiving a litter of perfect presents just in time for the holidays. The shelter announced earlier this week they will be receiving anywhere from seven to seventeen dogs. The animals are being transferred to the Twin Ports from Texas. Right now the shelter only…

Sankta Lucia Event Celebrates Swedish Culture in Duluth

Swedish Singers, Traditional Procession and Brunch to Highlight Celebration

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend an annual celebration put on by the Swedish Cultural Society will be back in Duluth. The Sankta Lucia Celebration is being held Saturday, December 9. This event will feature a procession of the tomtes, star lights, maids of light and Lucia. Jenna Tolan is playing the role of Lucia this year. Following the procession, there…

Superior City Council Adding UWS Cuts To Agenda

Cuts Of 25 Programs Have Students And Staff Unhappy

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Students at UWS angry over cuts to 25 academic programs at the university are now turning to the Superior City Council for support. About a dozen students, staff, and even residents showed up at Tuesday night’s council meeting dressed in red in solidarity with students being affected. The group says the cuts will affect the local economy…

Texas Puppies to Find New Homes in the Northland

More than a Dozen Puppies are Headed to the Douglas County Humane Society

SUPERIOR, Wis. – In the coming days, the Douglas County Humane Society will be receiving a litter of perfect presents just in time for the holidays. The shelter announcing earlier this week they will be receiving anywhere from seven to 17 dogs. The animals are being transferred to the Twin Ports from Texas. Right now, the shelter only has two…

Farmers Cook Up Their Harvest

Potluck To Raise Money For Local Farmers Association

DULUTH, Minn- The season for harvesting may be over for area farmers but that’s no reason for not enjoying the fruits of their labor. Tonight the Peace United Church of Christ hosted the Lake Superior Farmers Association for their annual pot luck fundraiser. Donated food from area farmers were whipped up for all to enjoy and to raise money to…

Holiday Party For Morgan Park Seniors

Live Music And Food Hosted By The City Of Duluth

DULUTH, Minn- Morgan Park seniors got in the holiday spirit tonight during the sold out holiday party hosted by the City of Duluth. Turkey and ham was on the menu along with live Christmas music. One resident says it’s a good reason to get out of the house “It keeps you young. It’s good to get out and be with…

New Coffee Shop Coming to Superior

Empire Coffee Will Offer Coffee Brewhouse Atmosphere on Tower Avenue

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A new coffee brewhouse is coming to Tower Avenue in Superior. Empire Coffee will give customers the chance to try different kinds of roasts from a variety of local roasters like Duluth Coffee Company and Big Water Coffee in Bayfield. The owners just got funding secured to build their shop in the historic Empire Block located at…

4-H Kids Do Chemistry Experiments at UWS

Discovery 4-H Club Focuses on Science and Math Career Preparation

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Kids in a new 4-H program did science experiments with college students in Superior. In the Discovery 4-H Club, kids can have traditional 4-H experiences and learn more about science and math. On Tuesday, they made slime and glow in the dark projects alongside UWS chemistry faculty and students. “You don’t necessarily get the opportunity to see…

Christmas Trees Lit at St. Scholastica

Annual Advent Vespers Ceremony Held at Monastery

DULUTH, Minn. – Christmas season officially started at the College of Saint Scholastica on Tuesday. College students and staff lit the Christmas trees outside Tower Hall. Before that, they got together with the sisters of the Saint Scholastica Monastery to celebrate the beginning of advent at the annual Advent Vespers Ceremony. “It’s a really good way for all of us…

Holiday Book Sale Helps Fund Children’s Programming

The Holiday Book sale has festive reading material for everyone.

DULUTH, Minn.- Materials are donated to the Mount Royal Branch Library all year long. Workers sets aside all holiday products in preparation for their annual book sale. The holiday book sale is one of the largest fundraisers put on by Friends of the Library. Purchasing the festive books gives money to children’s programming put on at the Duluth Public Library….

New Program Helps Domestic Abuse Survivors Temporarily House Pets

The Twin Ports Pets Housing Program helps victims have one less thing to worry about.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Leaving a  relationship with domestic abuse is a difficult situation and here in the Twin Ports it’s a decision made even harder, as victims fear about what will happen to their pets. The Center Against Sexual and Domestic Abuse (CASDA) is asking the community to help a new program, that will ensure victim’s animals will have a home….

Hartley Nature Center Reports on Solar Energy Storage Project

DULUTH, Minn. — Hartley Nature Center is powered for the future! Last August, the Nature Center installed a battery to store energy from its solar panels. Now more than a year after the battery’s installation, representatives from Hartley and its partners on the project talk about their results. They held an info session in the Nature Center earlier this morning….

Duluth Winter Village Organizers Already Looking at Next Year

DULUTH, Minn — Partially because of mild temperatures this past weekend, huge crowds flocked to Glensheen for the Duluth Winter Village. The event was a huge success, officially bringing 17,250 people to the city for food, drink, and all sorts of locally crafted items for sale. Forty local businesses set up shop on the festival grounds at the Glensheen Estate….

Minnesota Ballet Prepares for Nutcracker Performances

DULUTH, Minn. – With Christmas lights being put up all throughout town, the area is beginning to feel the Christmas spirit. Another sign of the holiday is the performance of The Nutcracker by the Minnesota Ballet. Minnesota Ballet Artistic Executive Director Robert Gardner says the performance has become a holiday tradition for many families. The company performs a version of…

Morgan Park Church Stands Tall for 100 Years

Northland Uncovered: United Protestant Church

DULUTH, Minn. – A community in Duluth was created by US Steel more than 100 years ago. Morgan Park residents feel a strong sense of community there. One Duluth man, Chet Johnson, has enjoyed his time in the neighborhood so much, he’s been attending the same church for 80 years. That church is United Protestant Church and it was built…

Shovels and Salt Flew Off The Shelves

Bracing For The Storm

LAKESIDE, Minn -Hardware stores are welcoming a winter storm of any kind to get that register making’ noise. The crew over at Hanks Hardware in the Lakeside neighborhood tell us they’ve seen an increase in salt sales. “Today they’ve been buying salt and grit. There’s a few snow shovels going out but it seems like the people that are prepared…

Inside Northland’s Beloved Bailey Builds Studio

The local shop Bailey Builds sells art made from reclaimed wood pieces.

DULUTH, Minn.-Northlanders may have spotted Bailey Builds, a business selling reclaimed wood art pieces at various events around Duluth. The creator Anna Bailey and her husband invited FOX 21 into their studio. Artist Anna Bailey creates pieces of art using reclaimed wood. “I can’t even tell you how rewarding this is honestly,” Bailey said. In the past Anna spent her…

Coldest Air Of Season Creates Concern For Homeless

CHUM and Life House In Need Of Donations

DULUTH, Minn-  The coldest air of the season is settling in on the Northland, which has advocates concerned for homeless in the area. Typically, the CHUM homeless shelter in Duluth hosts about 50 people a warm night, according to CHUM support staff member Shawn Carr.  But he says that number can double when the deep freeze sets in. “During cold…

UWS Athletes Giving Back to Community

Events Take Place Throughout Week

SUPERIOR, Wis.-The fall semester at UWS is coming to close, but that’s not stopping the students there from giving back to the community. All week students from the athletic department are taking part in a variety of activities to help those in need. Today some Yellow Jackets rang the bell for the Salvation Army’s annual holiday drive. “It’s a really…

Police Investigating Homicide in Lavell Township

HIBBING, Minn. – The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a woman who was found in her home last week. According to police, the woman was identified as 71-year-old Courtney Lee Fenske of Lavell Township, just southeast of Hibbing. Preliminary autospy results from the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office indicates that Fenske died as a result of…

Essentia Health Pharmacies Accepting Unwanted Medications

Anyone can safely and anonymously drop off at all pharmacy locations

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health is looking to keep unused or expired medications out of the wrong hands, as well as out of landfills and waters. Essentia announced Monday that anyone looking to get rid of prescription and over-the-counter drugs can do so anonymously at any Essentia Health retail pharmacy. Pharmacies are now equipped with bright blue drop-off boxes. Certain…

Glensheen Mansion Celebrates Christmas in True Congdon Form

More than 25 Christmas Trees Fill Historic Mansion

DULUTH, Minn. – Christmas is just a few weeks away and the folks over at Glensheen Mansion are already celebrating. The Historic Congdon Estate is decked out with lights, garland, and more than 25 Christmas trees. Christmas tours are in full swing at the mansion. All tours have a little Christmas flair with the beautiful decorations, and there’s even a…

Strength in Community Scholarship Supports Northland Education

FOX 21 Offers $21,000 Worth of Scholarships

DULUTH, Minn. – FOX 21, along with partners, is once again giving back to students in the Northland. This is through Fox 21’s Strength in the Community Scholarship. It aims at educating students in the Northland who are looking for jobs in the Northland. If you’re a high school senior with a GPA between 2.5 and 3.5, be sure to…

Families Shop at Christmas Market in Superior

Eighth Annual Event Features Local Vendors

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Families shopped local for the holidays at the Christmas Market in Superior this weekend. The eighth annual event is in the community gardens at the corner of Hammond and Broadway. People can buy everything from arts and crafts to pet grooming supplies. The event organizer says she missed the Christmas markets in her native Germany, so she…

‘Tree of Lights’ Ceremony Helps Grieving Families

Essentia Health's Annual Ceremony Is a Fundraiser for Grief Support Services

DULUTH, Minn. – A ceremony at Essentia Health helps grieving families get through the holiday season. The holidays can be difficult for families experiencing the loss of a loved one. At Essentia Health’s Tree of Lights Ceremony, people experiencing grief come together to connect with others going through the same emotions. At the ceremony, families remember, honor and thank special…

Get It Local Fair a Chance to Shop Small

Annual Gift Fair Had More Than 35 Twin Ports Vendors

DULUTH, Minn. – Families had another chance to shop small this holiday season at the Get It Local Fair in Duluth. The fair had more than thirty-five vendors selling locally made gifts and artwork. About three hundred people filtered through the Peace United Church of Christ finding hand made crafts and meeting the artists. “It’s such an opportunity this time…

Winter Village a Taste of Duluth

The first day of Winter Village brought in a large crowd.

DULUTH, Minn.- Northlanders supporting small businesses and got into the holiday spirit at Winter Village. The event brings together popular local vendors to spark shopping small during the giving season. Families and friends can browse the vendors, which are set up outside at Glensheen Mansion. Coordinators told FOX21 it’s a great place to find a gift made right here in the…

A Look Inside Throw-A-Thon From the Turntable

The Throw-a-Thon is open to the public and is a unique way to help feed hungry Northlanders.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s the giving time of year, local artists are helping feed hungry Northlanders in a creative way during the 18th annual Throw-A-Thon. Over the past 17 years the Throw-A-Thon has donated nearly $155,ooo from Empty Bowls. “It’s definitely out of the ordinary,” student Faith Runquisd said. “I mean somebody wouldn’t think okay I’m going to contribute to the…

Hmong Community Prepares to Celebrate New Year

Coppertop Church will be the place to be to celebrate Hmong culture Saturday

DULUTH, Minn. –  The people of the local Hmong community are getting ready for a celebration this Saturday.  The Hmong New Year celebration is happening on Saturday at the First United Methodist Church, also known as the Coppertop Church in Duluth. It will be a celebration of Hmong culture with traditional music, clothing and of course, great food. “Coming here…

Hermantown Students Graduate from D.A.R.E.

More than 170 sixth graders graduated the program

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Hermantown kids are ready for some of life’s toughest lessons, thanks to the D.A.R.E program. More than 170 sixth grade students graduated from the 2017 D.A.R.E program In Friday. Hermantown police handed out certificates and prizes. The program teaches kids about the effects of drugs and alcohol, but it doesn’t stop there. “The D.A.R.E. program is so much…

Northlanders Raise Awareness on World AIDS Day

More than 36 million people are living with HIV

DULUTH, Minn. – A candlelight vigil took place in  Downtown Duluth to commemorate the lives lost to HIV and AIDS, as well as draw attention to the illness as a way to de-stigmatize the topic. “People with HIV and AIDS are just that – They’re people,” advocate Will McGraw said. “I think that all people deserve to feel safe and respected…

New City Budget Could Increase Your Property Taxes

Mayor Emily Larson's budget proposal is nearly a six percent increase from 2017's budget

DULUTH, Minn. -Along with drawing from the city’s reserve fund, the typical Duluth homeowner could see a $30 property tax increase if a city budget proposal passes. Duluth Mayor Emily Larson’s proposal would try to fill the budget gap partially through cutting staff from city departments and increasing your property taxes. Part of the proposal includes spending an additional $1…

UMD Wants You To Go Biking In the Winter

Students also got on a Fender Blender, where students pedaled to blend the food that was in the blender

DULUTH, Minn. -Winter is here and UMD wants you to get in gear. Students from an environmental group on campus are trying to get more people to participate in winter biking activities. “Growing up in Minnesota a lot of people don’t think about going roller skating during the winter or doing a lot of those outside activities that don’t involve snow and so…

Vikre Distillery Helping Plant Trees One Bottle At a Time

Bottles from the liquor stores, cocktail room or from the bar all qualify for the tree planting

DULUTH, Minn. – For the month of Dec. if you buy a bottle from the Vikre Distillery they’ll plant a tree. The bottles are priced between $23 and $35. Even the gin is named after, you guessed it, trees like spruce and cedar. “We’re really committed to sustainability,” said Vikre Distillery Visitor Experience & Events Manager Chelsy Whittington. “We’re a triple bottom…

Cloquet’s B&B Market Lends A Helping Hand For Best Christmas Ever

B&B will also sponsor single families and this is the 10th year they've done it

CLOQUET, Minn. – Cloquet’s B & B  Market wants to help deserving families have the best Christmas ever. Proceeds from the trees and wreaths they sell will make that happen. When you walk inside you’re greeted by a Best Christmas Ever tree that lets the public pitch in. The tags on the trees are gifts that you can buy and…

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…