Community

Structure of Essentia’s Vision Northland Project Marked Complete with Topping Out Ceremony

According to hospital and construction officials, the project is ahead of schedule at 53% complete.

DULUTH, Minn.- Essentia Health, city and state officials celebrated a big milestone in the multimillion-dollar Vision Northland project — the end of structural construction. The “topping out” ceremony was held Tuesday. For the construction tradition, the beam is adorned with an American flag and a small tree.“They all symbolize positive things,” said Jeff Dzurik, Executive Vice President of McGough Construction….

New Duluth Boutique Hotel in Old City Hall Brings Hope for Struggling Downtown

The Inn is named after famous Duluth architect, Oliver Traphagen, responsible for many of Duluth’s buildings still used today.

DULUTH, Minn.- As downtown businesses continue to pull themselves up through labor shortages and safety issues, officials say the arrival of a new boutique hotel, the Oliver Inn, is a light on the horizon. The Old City Hall building on East Superior Street is getting a new look and new life as the Oliver Inn. “I think each experience that…

Family Donates $63K From 5K To Fund Addiction Recovery For Those Who Can’t Afford It

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge received a tremendous donation for its Northland location on Tuesday, coming from a family that started a 5K fundraiser years ago. A couple named Stevie and Sandy Paulson, along with their children, dropped off a check for more than $63,000 to the organization, which helps people start their recovery from substance…

Essentia Health Hosting Free Skin Cancer Screening Clinic

The Free Event is Happening at 330 North 8th Avenue East in Duluth on Thursday, Nov. 11 from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’re concerned about the risk of skin cancer, a free event on Thursday, Nov. 11 might help put your mind at ease. Essentia Health is hosting the event. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, with one in five Americans developing it by age 70. Health officials say the elderly…

Duluth Fire Department Participating in ‘Movember’

Captain Black said the driver of his rig usually wins the competition every year.

DULUTH, Minn. — Members of the Duluth Fire Department can spend a little less time getting ready in the morning this month, as they’re growing out mustaches for a good cause. The goal is to see who can grow the best mustache within department grooming standards. It’s also to pass on the importance of getting screened early for cancers and…

Applications Now Accepted as City Increases Vacation Rental Units

With up to ten additional units every year until an ultimate cap is reached of 120 units down the road. 

DULUTH, Minn. — The city of Duluth is accepting applications for more vacation and short-term rentals. This as the city increases the number of units allowed around town. This comes as the city council recently passed a modified ordinance increasing the vacation dwellings cap from 60 to 70 units. With up to ten additional units every year until an ultimate…

Heating Supply Stores Nearing Busy Season

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Stove and Fireplace business has moved to a new location to expand their product inventory. The business held on strong through the pandemic with home construction and renovations continuing to fuel their demand. As they approach what they call their ‘burn season” they needed an expanded building to showcase a growing product line in gas…

Midday Update 11-9-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, November 9, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, November 9, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Morning Update 11-9-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, November 9, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, November 9, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, Headlines, Ken Slama, morning update, News, weather

Klobuchar, MN Business Owner Celebrate Border Reopening, But New Requirements for Canadians Dampen Full Economic Rebound Stateside

Canadians visiting must complete a negative covid-19 test, regardless of their vaccination status to return home, and they have to pay for the test themselves here in the states.

DULUTH, Minn.- The U.S. has fully reopened its borders with Canada, after almost 20 months closed due to the pandemic. But some border businesses in Minnesota are still feeling like the door isn’t fully open as some Canadians are still hesitant to travel — knowing they face testing requirements to return home. “Our biggest trading partner, one of our best…

Duluth Council Approves DEDA’s Help in Paying Rising Cost of Historic Old Central Redevelopment

Supply chain issues and the rising cost of materials have brought the project cost up an additional $4.3 million.

DULUTH, Minn,- Supply chain issues and the rising cost of materials have affected the redevelopment of Duluth’s Historic Old Central High School into housing units. According to Councilor Zack Filipovich, the project cost has gone up an additional $4.3 million dollars due to those issues. With the developer covering about $2.7 million of that, Duluth City Council voted unanimously Monday…

Duluth Police Raise $2,853 For American Cancer Society

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Police Department raised $2,853 for the American Cancer Society through its “Pink Patch Project” last month. The DPD sold pink versions of its traditional police patches during October, which is nationally recognized as breast cancer awareness month. Chief Mike Tusken said it’s important to find a cure for all types of cancer, as many people…

KYN: Port City Nutrition

That's why she decided to bring Herbalife products such as proteins and herbal teas to downtown Two Harbors along with a positive environment.

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — “I like being in a place that people can go to get nutrition and to get coaching and get into an active lifestyle and a healthy lifestyle,” Port City Nutrition Owner, Quinn Kasell says. After moving from Grand Rapids to Two Harbors with her family, owner Quinn Kasell knew she had to bring her drive for…

Ashland Police Department Nearly Moved Into Renovated Police Headquarters

"It's very crowded. There's not a lot of room," Morland says.

ASHLAND, Wisc. — After nearly 50 years of conducting their operations in the basement of city hall, the Ashland police department finally has a new station. “This used to flood. So we would be conducting interviews with suspects or sexual assault victims and we would be sitting in water,” Ashland Police Department Lieutenant, Scott Morland says. For nearly five decades…

Chester Bowl Skis, Suds, & Slices Fundraiser Happening This Week

The Virtual Auction Begins Wednesday, Nov. 10

DULUTH, Minn. – Chester Bowl is proud to present its annual Skis, Suds, & Slices fundraiser beginning Wednesday, Nov. 10, and wrapping up Friday, Nov. 12 at 8:30 p.m. “At Chester Bowl, we believe that every family should be able to learn to ski or snowboard and attend summer camp regardless of their family income,” said Dave Schaeffer, executive director…

Midday Update 11-8-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, November 8, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, November 8, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update

Morning Update 11-8-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, November 8, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, November 8, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Rivet Run 5k Helps Support Pattison State Park

SUPERIOR, Wis. — More than 50 people came together for the Rivet Run/Walk 5k at Pattinson State Park, which is home to Wisconsin’s tallest free standing waterfall. Proceeds raised by the runners and organizers is helping give back to maintain the place they love so much. Pattison State Park was established in 1920, and features almost 1,500 acres of woods…

Hundreds of Furry Friends Find New Families at Subaru ‘Love a Pet’ Adoption Event

106 animals total -- 76 cats and 30 dogs -- were adopted out.

DULUTH, Minn.- Hundreds of pets went home with new loving families this weekend at Miller Hill Subaru’s “Love a Pet” adoption event. 106 animals total — 76 cats and 30 dogs — were adopted out. People were in and out the door Saturday and Sunday with new furry family members of all ages. Five different humane organizations from across the…

Boy Scout Christmas Wreaths for Sale

DULUTH, Minn. — Winter’s around the corner, and that means so is Christmas, and Duluth’s Troop 9 Boy Scouts were back with their annual Christmas wreath sale outside of the Mount Royal Market. Offering three different sizes and various designs, these wreaths prove to be a hit with the community and is the scouts’ biggest fundraiser. The proceeds help fund…

Vehicle Slams into Duluth Car Wash Injuring Driver, Killing Dog

According to a spokesperson with the Duluth Police Department, a 46-year-old woman experienced a medical condition while driving on Maple Grove Road and lost control.

DULUTH, Minn.- A scary afternoon at the Miller Mall Car Wash in Duluth as they’re left with a literal gaping hole after a vehicle crashed into their building at a high rate of speed. According to a spokesperson with the Duluth Police Department, a 46-year-old woman experienced a medical condition while driving on Maple Grove Road away from the Target….

CHUM’s Fresh Fridays Provides Fresh Food to Community

DULUTH, Minn.- Today marks CHUM’S third week of Fresh Fridays, and so far, it has been a success for the Duluth food bank. “Fresh Fridays” is the food bank’s new program, where they give out fresh food items like produce, milk, and more. Every Monday and Wednesday, CHUM gives out non-perishable food boxes, and on Tuesdays, they deliver food boxes…

Salvation Army Accepting Applications for Christmas Assistance

Applicants must present an ID for everyone in the household and a piece of mail for proof of address.

DULUTH, Minn.- The holidays are right around the corner and The Duluth Salvation Army is once again accepting applications for gifts and Christmas dinners. Through the 24th of this month, anyone can turn in an application at the Salvation Army office on 27th Avenue West. Applicants must present an ID for everyone in the household and a piece of mail…

Registration Open for COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics for 5-11-Year-Olds through St. Louis County

Older family members can also get a first, second, or booster dose at these clinics.

DULUTH, Minn.- Registration is open for vaccine appointments for 5 to 11-year-olds through St. Louis County Public Health. Starting next Saturday, November 13th, the county will offer Pfizer vaccines to kids at the First United Methodist Church in Duluth from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and the Eveleth Auditorium on the Range from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Parents are…

City of Duluth to Offer Parking Alternatives During Snow Emergencies

DULUTH, Minn.- Although the Northland has only experienced hit or miss light snow showers, the city of Duluth is getting prepared for its very first snow emergency enforcement by creating parking alternatives for residents with their parking pilot lot program. Two thousand three hundred snow emergency signs were installed across Duluth earlier this year. So when it begins snowing hard,…

Ski Hills Gearing Up for Winter Season

Right now, Lutsen Mountain's top priority is snowmaking which will happen when we get consecutive colder.

DULUTH, Minn. — The Northland’s Ski mountains are getting ready for the winter season. Right now, Lutsen Mountain’s top priority is snowmaking which will happen when we get consecutive colder days. With snow-making staff on standby, they have a goal of people coming in and skiing by Thanksgiving and are expecting a big season. “Last year we were in the…

Firefighters Urge Residents to Take Preventative Measures as Temperatures Drop

Members of the Duluth Fire Department want people to use Daylight Savings as an opportunity to check on their smoke detectors as well.

DULUTH, Minn. — While most people get ready to turn their clocks an hour back for Daylight Savings this Sunday, members of the Duluth Fire Department want people to use it as an opportunity to check on their smoke detectors as well. A general rule of thumb is to check the batteries on your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and…

UMD Holding Pumpkin Compost Drive

UMD held a compost drive for people looking for a place to ditch those gourds.

DULUTH, Minn. — With Halloween in the rearview mirror, it’s time to say goodbye to your pumpkins and hit the road jack-o-lanterns. UMD held a compost drive for people looking for a place to ditch those gourds. Starting Friday, people can visit two locations on the campus to dispose of their pumpkins. One in the parking lot near the new…

At-Large Council Members Tomanek, Awal Speak Out After Election Victory

New Council Members will be Sworn in Come January 2022

DULUTH, Minn. – Two new at-large Duluth city council members have been elected to their positions earlier this week. We caught up with Terese Tomanek, who was previously appointed to fill the position of councilor Barb Russ last year, and newly elected Azrin Awal, Duluth’s first Asian American to sit on the council. For Tomanek, she looks forward to continuing…

Midday Update 11-5-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, November 5, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, November 5, 2021. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Annual Rivet Run Happening Sunday at Pattison State Park

Participants Must Register by Saturday, Nov. 6 at Noon

SUPERIOR, Wis. – In this week’s Active Adventures we are getting ready for the Rivet Run with Eve Graves which happens this Sunday, Nov. 7 at 12 p.m. The Rivet Run is a 5k trail run/walk fundraiser for the upkeep of hiking and ski trails at Pattison State Park. Registration is $20 and must be completed online by noon Saturday,…

Morning Update 11-5-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, November 5, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, November 5, 2021. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, weather

Duluth School District Begins Voluntary Vaccine Clinics at Elementary Schools

On Thursday, the Duluth school district began hosting voluntary vaccination clinics starting at Laura MacArthur Elementary school.

DULUTH, Minn. — After FDA and CDC approval, the Pfizer vaccine is now available for 5 to 11-year-olds. The Duluth school district is one of the first districts in Minnesota to offer a vaccine clinic to those who want to get the shots. “We are one of the first sites in the state of Minnesota to give vaccinations for our…

Life 97.3 Hosts Winter Clothing Drive

Farmers Insurance on Superior street and DLH Clothing in West Duluth were also part of the drive.

DULUTH, Minn. — The Christian radio station life 97.3 partnered with other businesses to hold a clothing drive on Thursday. It was the third annual event and the first time the radio station has hosted it. The drive was looking for jackets, gloves, hats, mittens and other articles of clothing to help get kids ready for the winter season. Staff…

Falling into Healthier Habits with ‘Oh So Smoothie’

Cooking Connection: Super Green Smoothie

DULUTH, Minn. – We’re making smoothies in this week’s Cooking Connection with ‘Oh So Smoothie.’ This time we are taking the healthier option as we head into the season full of sweets and treats. In addition to using all fresh ingredients, Katie uses her young children for taste testing. So, if you don’t trust Ken’s word on how the Super…

Midday Update 11-4-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, November 4, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, November 4, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Morning Update 11-4-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, November 4, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, November 4, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

120 Foot Tall Snowman Postponed From Bentleyville

DULUTH, Minn. — The cost of building material is now partly responsible for the delay in the debut of one of Bentleyville’s newest and biggest attractions. Back in May, the founder of Bentleyville announced that a 120-foot lit-up iron snowman was going to be built for the site. Bentleyville was partnering with LHB, Braun Intertech, and the local ironworkers 512…

Two Harbors Area Food Shelf Getting Ready for Holiday Season

Employees pre-packaged boxes of meals with all the essentials.

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — The two harbors area food shelf has continued to be in high demand in the community. The non-profit originally started with curbside pickup last year with the pandemic, but then shifted to a drive-thru model which they say has been very successful. Employees pre-packaged boxes of meals with all the essentials. Right now, they’re boxing up…

Approved Referendum Means Big Improvements For Lake Superior School District

There is no time frame for the completion of the projects. 

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — The Lake Superior School District up the north shore received the go-ahead on one part of a two-question referendum Wednesday night. 61% of voters approved a multi-million dollar plan to make major improvements to the infrastructure of three schools. “I floated out of the building to be honest last night to be honest,” Lake Superior School…

Midday Update 11-3-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, November 3, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue Searching for More Foster Homes, Adopters

Based in the Twin Cities Metro Area, Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue Serves the Entire State

DULUTH, Minn. – Serving the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue has worked for years to pair stigmatized bully breeds with the right families after they’re moved from states such as Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia. Just last year, they helped rescue a record number of 200 pit bulls from life-threatening situations. On average, they help place over…

Morning Update 11-3-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, November 3, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Loose Cat Dumped Outside Animal Allies Highlights Issue of Illegal Abandonment

A cat let loose outside of a car prompted a day-long search and renewed calls for the proper drop-off of animals.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth’s Animal Allies Humane Society is used to seeing animals brought in, but not animals jumping out of a car in their parking lot. That’s how one person dumped a cat there Tuesday, prompting staff to plea for people to properly drop off animals. In surveillance video, around 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, someone just pops open a door, lets…

Bent Paddle Helping Raise Money, Awareness of Mental Health Services with New Beer Launch Thursday

$1 for each pint and $5 for every growler or crowler of the new Pay It Forward pale ale purchased will go back to Amberwing.

DULUTH, Minn.- Experts say mental health issues in kids and teens are rising, so one organization and brewery are teaming up to promote a new beer that raises money for mental health resources. Bell Bank’s Pay-It-Forward Launch Party at Bent Paddle Brewing this Thursday is raising funds for Amberwing, a Duluth-based center for youth and family wellbeing. In a survey…

Indigenous Business Owners Network at First-Ever Tribal Contractors Council Summit in Duluth

They also hope the event will help them connect and build relationships not only within the more than 65 industry members present but with other outside businesses or entities.

DULUTH, Minn.- Indigenous business owners throughout Northern Minnesota got together to network and discuss their industry at the first-ever Minnesota Tribal Contractors Council Summit at Pier B Resort in Duluth. Organizers say many tribal contractors and businesses who worked on the Enbridge Line 3 Pipeline replacement project are in need of new work. They also hope the event will help…

Deer Processors Ready For Upcoming Hunting Season

The meat processing fee is $110. 

POPLAR, Wis. — Meat processing plants around the Northland are gearing up for the upcoming Minnesota and Wisconsin firearm hunting seasons. “We start with the bear season so that’s pretty fast and furious. Then it cuts back a little for the bow season. We take both from Minnesota and Wisconsin,” Hursh Meat Processing Owner, Robert Hursh says. With bow season…

New London Cafe Under New Ownership

The renovations are expected to wrap up by early next year.

DULUTH, Minn. — New London Cafe in Duluth’s Lakeside neighborhood is now under new ownership. They’re wasting no time putting their ideas in motion. The restaurant will be getting a facelift including new coffee equipment, tables, artwork and more. They’re also in the process of getting their liquor license. The renovations are expected to wrap up by early next year….