Author: Lena Takada

Positive Future Ahead for UMD Land Lab

The Lab Was in Jeopardy, But Not Anymore

DULUTH, Minn.- The UMD Land Lab and Sustainable Agriculture farm has a bright future ahead of it The land lab and SAP farm was in jeopardy because of the school’s budget. But after many people showed support for the program, the school has made the decision to keep the 10 acre land lab available to students who want to learn…

CSA Farms Prepare for Growing Season

Organic Food is Growing in Popularity

DULUTH, Minn.- CSA creates a partnership between farms and members who purchase shares.  The members financially support the farm by purchasing a share before the growing season. In Return, they receive fresh and organic produce from the farms. The partnership is one that lasts through the good, and the bad. This means some years a member could receive plenty of…

No More Snow Days In Minnesota?

Bill Would Replace Snow Days With 'E-Learning Days'

PROCTOR, Minn.- A House committee is discussing a bill that could replace up to 5 snow days each year with electronic learning days, where students would complete school work online, from home. Proctor High School Asst. Principal Mark Hughes believes the transition would be a smooth one for students at Proctor High School, if the bill passes, because the school…

Courage Kenny Ski Camp Helps People Ski on Adaptive Skis

More Than 20 Skiers Learn to Ski

DULUTH, Minn.- Skiers on adaptive skis hit the slopes as part of Courage Kenney’s Ski camp. Around 20 skiers had the chance to learn, or brush up on their skiing techniques at Spirit mountain, Thursday. The Ski camp is designed for adults and teenagers with disabilities, and helps encourage people to pursue healthy life styles and hobbies. “It’s just a…

Interest in Home Security is Going Up

  DULUTH, Minn.- After a string of violent crimes in Duluth, some community members are looking into making their homes a little more secure. Experts say interest in home security has been going up in the last couple of years. But experts say simple things like trimming bushes in your yard to eliminate hiding spots, and making sure your doors…

Superior Police Department Getting New K9

Currently the Department Only Has One Dog

SUPERIOR, Wis.- With the current schedule and lack of dogs, the Superior Police Department has to use dogs from Duluth, St. Louis County, and other police departments with K9 Units, on a regular basis. But thanks to a grant from the Amsoil K9 Foundation, that’s all about to change.  The Superior Police Department will be getting a new K9 though the…

Food Shelves in the Northland Asking for Donations This March

It's Part of a State Wide Campaign to Benefit Thousands of People

DULUTH, Minn.- Food shelves across the Northland are participating in The Minnesota Foodshare March Campaign. Food shelves in Northeastern Minnesota are able to raise more money and food during the campaign, through getting a proportionate match to what is donated.  This means each dollar raised in March, goes further to help people in need. “It was developed 34 years ago…

Fire in Superior Damages Home in Superior

$70,000 Dollars Worth of Damages, But No One Was Injured

SUPERIOR, Wis.- A fire in Superior left behind $70,000 worth of damages to a home. The Superior Fire Department responded to a fire on Cumming Avenue in Superior late Sunday night. Upon Arrival Crews saw fire coming from the 2nd floor windows of the building.  Crews were able to extinguish the fire that started in the upstairs apartments kitchen. All…

Petition: Reinstate Former Proctor Police Chief

Walter Wobig Served As Chief Since 2002

PROCTOR, Minn.- An online petition was growing Monday for the reinstatement of former longtime Proctor Police Chief Walter Wobig. The petition had more than 180 signatures Monday evening, along with personal messages of support. This comes one week after Mayor Phil Larson and councilors Troy DeWall and Gary Nowak got the majority vote to not renew Wobig’s contract as chief….

NAACP Fundraiser Honors Black Leaders, Activists

DULUTH, Minn.- Throughout the years, many Iconic Figures have progressed the Civil Rights movement, and Sunday, images honoring some of those people lined the walls of the Zeitgeist arts building in Duluth, as part of a fundraiser for the local NAACP chapter. UMD graphic design students created all of the art on the wall, and each one features a black activist…

Congressman Nolan Visits Hermantown

Local Leaders Attend Forum to Talk About Transporation

HERMANTOWN, Minn.- U.S Congressman Rick Nolan held a transportation forum in Hermantown Saturday. Local leaders and stakeholders were invited to discuss transportation and infrastructure needs in the Northland.  Attendees included wastewater treatment managers, city planners, and economic developers. “We’ve been neglecting America. And trying to rebuild the rest of the world. But we have to refocus and get America back…

People March Nearly Naked for a Good Cause

Veterans and allies hiked 10 miles on Duluth’s Lakewalk

DULUTH, Minn. – Hundreds of people dressed down to their skivvies and braved the cold to raise awareness of Veteran suicide rates Veterans and allies hiked 10 miles on Duluth’s lakewalk wearing nothing but underwear and a pack full of weights. The packs represented the weight that veterans carry in the battle against combat stress. “I have many military friends,…

Students Observe Trio Day at CSS

It's a Day to Celebrate Federal Programs That Help Underprivileged Kids

DULUTH, Minn.- Federal Trio programs help students with disadvantaged backgrounds get into college, and have experiences they might not get otherwise. Congress designated National Trio day back in 1986. Since then, the 4th Saturday in February has been celebrated as National Trio Day each year.  This year St. Scholastica celebrated with keynote speakers, wellness classes, and workshops.  Students say the…

Narcan Cheaper for First Responders in Wisconsin

Wisconsin's Deal With Adapt Pharma Makes Narcan More Easily Accessible

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Naloxone, known as Narcan, is used in emergencies to treat people who have overdosed on Heroin or Prescription Opioids. The state of Wisconsin has made a 1 year deal with Adapt Pharma that makes it possible for First Responders, state and local governments and community organizations to purchase Narcan at a 40 percent discount, when buying more than…

Interest in Open Carry Up After Recent Events

But Minnesota and Wisconsin Have Slightly Different Requirements

DULUTH, Minn.- Some Gun advocates believe having your own weapon is the best way to protect yourself from violent crimes. But in the state of Minnesota, a permit is required to carry a gun, whether open or concealed. Obtaining a concealed carry permit requires attending 5 to 7 hours of class learning about gun laws, training at a shooting range,…

Children Enjoy Winter Camp at Hartley Nature Center

It's a Chance for Them to Learn While Having Fun

DULUTH, Minn.- Children learned about nature and the outdoors while still having fun at Hartley Nature Center’s Winter Camp in Duluth. Children, age ranging from 4 to 9 learned about how plants and animals survive the winter, through games and exploring the park. Hartley Nature Center representatives believe Winter Camp is the perfect way to get children outside and exercising,…

Warm Temperatures Means Grilling in February

Local Meat Shops Saw Increase in Sales After Warm Week

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Northland saw temperatures 10 to 20 degrees higher than average last week. And Meat lovers took advantage. Deanna Reder, a meat handler at Superior Meats says sales spiked, as Northlanders fired up their grills to enjoy delicious food and time outside. Some of the best sellers included beef patties, and smoked sausages.   “You get to be outside,…

One Year Since Fire That Devastated Gloria Dei Lutheran Church

Members Remembered the Day With a Prayer Service

  DULUTH, Minn.- It’s been exactly One Year since members of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church have been without their original space of worship, and Saturday, those members remembered the fire that devastated their beloved church building, at a prayer service held at Dougherty’s Funeral home. “We think that marking this day is important.  We might remember where we were when…

Local Legislators Hold Town Hall

The Venue at the Children's Museum was Packed

DULUTH, Minn.- More than a hundred people turned out for the town hall with State Senator Erik Simonson, as well as representatives Jennifer Schultz and Liz Olson. Saturday’s listening session was the first since the Minnesota’s legislative period opened in January. “It’s really important for any elected official to make sure that they stay in tune with their constituents, and…

Polar Plunge Benefits Special Olympics

Fox 21 News Team Raised $3,153 for the Cause

DULUTH, Minn.- The annual Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics Minnesota was held Saturday. Despite warmer temperatures, plungers were still quick to get out of the icy water. The Fox 21 crew took the plunge again this year. Our team raised a total of $3153. Thank you to everyone who donated. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News

Northlanders Enjoy Warm Weather

It's the 2nd Warmest February 17th on Record

DULUTH, Minn.- Though the unseasonably warm weather hurts snow conditions and other winter sports, some community members took advantage of the sunny days. People could be seen walking, running, and soaking up the rays. Temperatures were as high as 51 degrees in Duluth, making it the 2nd warmest February 17th on record, and only 1 degree away from making it…

Children Experience ‘Dog Sledding’ at 10th Annual Ikidarod

The Event Helps Teach Children About Local and National Dog Sledding Races

  DULUTH, Minn.- Excited barking noises echoed from the playground of North Shore Community school. But those sounds weren’t coming from dogs, but rather, kids playing the role of sled dogs pulling a plastic sled. On the sled was a musher, also played by a classmate. “We go around our nature trail in some sleds, while the kids pull you…

Update on 11th Street Shooting in Duluth

Police Can't Give Any New Information to Protect the Case

DULUTH, Minn.- A shooting that left one person dead happened on 11th Street in Duluth, Tuesday. Since then the victim has been identified as 22 year old William Andrew Grahek.  A person of interest has been detained since the shooting, but no new updates have been released. Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken says homicide investigation are some of the most…

New Task Force Helps Fight Drugs and Violence

It's a Merge of 2 Task Forces in the Northland

  DULUTH, Minn.- The Lake Superior Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force merged with the Boundary Waters Drug Task Force to Form the New Lake Superior Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The new task force will be fighting violent crimes and drugs in St. Louis County, Lake County, Carlton County, all of Minnesota, and Douglas county of Wisconsin. By…

Officers Recognized for Good Work at Ceremony

Dozens of Police Officers Are Celebrated For Their Work

DULUTH, Minn.- Police Officers were recognized for their hard work and achievements at a ceremony held in Duluth, Thursday. The Duluth Police Department Recognition Ceremony celebrated dozens of officers, and their service to the community.  Some were recognized for their promotions and leadership skills, while others were presented with special awards. “Our employees of the Duluth Police department, both civilian…

Warm Weather Brings Out the Shovels

But the Thaw-Freeze Cycle is Bad for the Roads

DULUTH, Minn.- The warm weather helps the ice break up, making it easier to remove snow and ice from sidewalks, roads, and driveways. The warm weather even helps city workers remove ice using less chemicals. Many people are enjoying the warm weather, and utilizing it to finish up some chores. With temperatures well over freezing, ice and snow is easy…

Candy Shops Busy for Valentines Day

People Flock to Buy Candy For Their Sweet Hearts

DULUTH, Minn.- Valentine’s Day is tomorrow, and businesses across the Northland are helping people celebrate the day of love. Candy shops in the Northland are busy as people come through to buy chocolates and other sweets for their loved ones. Tina Anderson, the owner of Hepzibah’s Sweet shoppe says some of her top sellers include truffles, sea salt caramels, and…

UMD Kicks Off Out Cold Week

It's a Week Full of Winter Fun

DULUTH, Minn.- The University of Duluth Minnesota is kicking off a week of winter fun. Events for Out Cold Week started today with a photo-booth and free Watermelon Sugar Cookies provided by Love Your Melon. The rest of the week will include game night, free hot cocoa, and comedy night. The goal of the week is to help students shake…

4th Street Market Closes

The Only Grocery Store in the Neighborhood Closes

DULUTH, Minn.-  The 4th Street Market in Duluth closed its doors possibly for good, Monday. The market is the only grocery store in the neighborhood, and according to Tom Potter, the owner of the market, many people in the neighborhood who don’t have transportation depend on the store for groceries.  Potter says the closure is because Zeppa Foundation, the owner…

Tribal Leaders Call For Clean Water, Less Pipelines

DULUTH, Minn. – Tribal leaders from across the Great Lakes discussed environmental concerns raised by the expansion and abandonment of pipelines. Leaders addressed how pipeline removal projects could impact local economies, help fight climate change, and protect water sources. Tribal leaders also discussed Standing Rock and their concerns that a new pipeline could wreck on the environment. “We are deeply…

Planned Parenthood Protests Spread to Duluth

It's a Conversation Taking Place Nation Wide

DULUTH, Minn. – Pro Life people across the nation took a stand at more than 130 Planned Parenthoods across the Nation, calling for legislators to de-fund the women’s health care provider, And here in the Northland, dozens of people turned out for the cause, holding signs denouncing planned parenthood and abortions, in front of the Duluth planned parenthood clinic. “It’s…

Ice Climbing Festival Draws More Than 100 to Quarry Park

It's Held at the City's Newest Park

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Climbing Coalition’s 2nd Annual Winter Rendezvous brought over 100 people to Casket Quarry in Duluth Dozens of people tried ice climbing and mixed climbing, a combination of climbing rock and ice, at the Casket Quarry. The walls at Casket Quarry are known for their steepness and technical difficulty, but organizers say climbing is only one of…

Kids Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Clyde Iron Works

It's a Day Full of Family Friendly Fun

DULUTH, Minn.- Children celebrated valentines day with family fun at Clyde Iron works The event, hosted by Duluth’s Kids Club had things like bouncy houses, dances, and costumed characters, and food. Organizers say it’s a safe way for kids to get their wiggles out while staying warm inside. “We really focus on the importance of play with families, and building…

Apostle Island Ice Caves Not Likely to Form This Year

Warm Temperatures and High Winds Are to Blame

BAYFIELD, Wis.- The Lake Superior Ice caves draw thousands of people to Bayfield when they form, but Park Officials say they wouldn’t count on seeing the caves this year The winter started out looking promising, but recent warm temperatures and high winds caused the little ice that did form to break apart. Park Officials are not positive the caves won’t…

Children Dress Up to Celebrate I Love to Read Month

It's an Event to Encourage Kids to Read More Books

DULUTH, Minn.- Hundreds of Children brought story book characters to life at the Edison Charter Schools North Stare Academy. Little Arthurs, Harry Potters, and Curious Georges walked through the halls of the school today. It’s part of the school’s effort to encourage kids to read more books.  While the school hosts many events to spark kids’ interest in reading, dress…

Madeline Island Ferry to be Open All of Winter

It's a Rare Occurance That the Ferry Stays Open All Year

BAYFIELD, Wis.- The Madeline Island Ferry Line will stay opened for the winter. With the open waters of Lake Superior still visible from the marina, it’s the second year in a row that the ferry will be traveling between Bayfield and Madeline island all winter long. Shannon Mager who has been working at the Ferry Line for over a decade, says…

Gronks Welcomes Gift Certificates of a Closed Business

O'Neill's Pub and Liquor Gift Cards Can be Used at Gronks

    SUPERIOR, Wis.- Gronks Grill and Bar is accepting O’Neill’s Pub and Liquor gift cards and drink tickets. O’Neills had been open on its location on Tower Avenue for about 10 years, but closed for good on December 31st. Gronks Owners decided to extend a helping hand to O’Neills customers who never had the chance to use their gift…

Firefighters Battle More Than Blazes

Hypothermia is a Big Problem in Winter Fire Fighting

SUPERIOR, Wis.- More Heating and electrical appliances can mean more fires in homes across the Northland. When firefighters battle blazes in the wintertime, they may be in an environment like a burning house that can be more than 300 degrees, and within minutes come back outside to subzero temperatures. This contrast in temperature can cause hypothermia. To combat this, fire…

Illegal Tobacco Sales to Minors Up in Douglas County

Under-aged Kids Were Able to Buy Tobbaco Products 13% of the Time They Tried

  SUPERIOR, Wis.- State mandated compliance checks were held in Douglas County to make sure businesses aren’t selling tobacco products to under aged minors. The minors who were part of the test were able to purchase the tobacco products 13 percent of the time they tried. Experts say the tobacco industry is producing products that appeal to a younger generation,…

St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church is Torn Down

The Church is Around 100 Years Old

  DULUTH, Minn.- The St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church which closed in 2015, was demolished today The Duluth Diocese made a decision in 2012 to merge St. Elizabeth Catholic church in Gary New Duluth and St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Morgan Park with St. James Catholic Church in West Duluth back in 2012. It was a move to address…

Ely’s Winterfest Draws People from Across the State and Canada

The Event Celebrates All Things Winter.

ELY, Minn.- The pick of a shovel, the grind of a saw, and bitter cold temperatures of a February day welcomes the winter festival in Ely Minnesota. Teams of people are carving away at 12 foot snow blocks in Whiteside Park, turning each of them into unique sculptures. It’s Jodi Pratt‘s second year building snow sculptures with 3 of her…

Human Trafficking Numbers Up Across Nation

24% Increase in Reported Trafficking Cases

  DULUTH, Minn.- Cases of reported human trafficking increase each year. While Human Trafficking is a critical problem Nationally and Globally, some experts say the rise in numbers could partly be because of an increase in awareness surrounding the issue. More survivors than ever reached out to the National Human Trafficking Hotline and other resources in 2016. There was a…

Bugs in Your Hair? No Fear, Lice Lounge is Here!

It's a Business That Specializes in Treating Lice

  DULUTH, Minn.- If your kids bring home some insects that get you ripping your hair out, a new business in town might be able to help you out. The Lice Lounge specializes in Head Lice Treatment and Prevention.  The lounge has a location in White Bear Lake, but after having so many clients travel from the Northland to get…

OMC Smokehouse Opening Soon

The Restaurant Opens on February 15th

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s less than two weeks before the OMC Smoke House opens up in the Lincoln Park Neighborhood in Duluth OMC, or Oink, Moo, Cluck Smokehouse specializes in barbeque, and was named after some of the sounds that their ingredients make. The Smokehouse chefs traveled all over the country to perfect their art of barbeque, but work with Northland…

Cloquet Working to Revitalize Downtown and Business Districts

Many Projects are in the Works

CLOQUET, Minn.- A healthy downtown can be the key to a strong community.  That’s why the city of Cloquet is working to revitalize its downtown and business districts. “It’s exciting to allow local businesses who have been here for quite some time to expand their foot print and their operations and grow locally here in Cloquet,” says Holly Hansen, the…

American Birkebeiner Around the Corner

Thousands of Skiers From Around the World to Come to Wisconsin

DULUTH, Minn. – Thousands of skiers from around the world will be in Cable and Hayward the end of this month, to race in North America’s longest cross country ski race, the Birkie. The festivities start on February 23rd, and the actual race takes place February 25th. “It is really one of the shining moment for the communities. And it…

Runners, Bikers, and Skiers Travel 135 Miles in the Snow

It's an Extreme Race from International Falls to Tower

DULUTH, Minn.- Joe Stiller has been competing in the Arrowhead Ultra for 4 years, and says the 135 mile race is one of his favorites. “This has a real tight family community, more than any other race that I do,” says Stiller. The race starts in International Falls Minnesota, and Ends in Tower. Competitors pack gear like sleeping bags, extra…

Big Tower Project to Start Construction This Spring

The Project Has Been in the Works for A Decade

TOWER, Minn.- The city of Tower is preparing for some big things this spring. The Vermilion Harbor Development Site plan has been in the works for around a decade, but city officials say they’re ready to start construction this spring.  The project will be quite the facelift for Tower, and will include town homes, a restaurant, and a hotel. “Up until…

American Red Cross Holds Blood Drive at UMD

Winter Weather Causes Blood Shortage for American Red Cross

DULUTH, Minn.- The American Red Cross is having a blood shortage, after several rounds of severe winter weather in many parts of the country forced them to cancel blood drives. Since December 1, around 300 blood drives across 27 states have been canceled because of weather, but hospital patients still need blood transfusions. So today, students and community members donated…