Author: Nachai Taylor

The Small Business Development Center Celebrates Anniversary at UMD Center for Economic Development

"Over 98% of our businesses would be classified small business and those businesses are locally owned."

DULUTH, Minn. – UMD’s center for Economic Development celebrated the anniversary of all small business development centers across the U.S., which were introduced four decades ago. In Duluth the development centers offers no cost business consulting for those looking to start a business. They also give training to business owners on ways to grow. In total the Northeastern Minnesota business…

Ashley Grimm Announces Candidacy for 5th District City Council Seat

Grimm is running a platform that focuses on addressing the housing crisis and economic development in Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Human Rights Commissioner Ashley Grimm announced she is running for the 5th district Duluth City Council seat, now held by Jay Fosle, outside of Duluth City Center West. Grimm has served on the Duluth Human Rights Commission since 2012. She also manages youth programming at the Damiano Center. Grimm is running a platform that focuses on…

UMD Continues the Conversation of Climate Change in Minnesota

"I think it will just help people think of what they do every day and how they interact with their environment. Recycling efforts, water usage efforts."

DULUTH, Minn. – UMD is striving to combat climate change one step at a time. University leaders kicked off the two day conference, with a tour of the Natural Resources Research Institute to share the work in progress for addressing climate change. The conference also features presentations from researchers to strategize on how to use environmental resources responsibly. “Climate change…

OMC Smokehouse set to Expand

OMC hopes to open the new space as early as May.

DULUTH, Minn. – OMC smokehouse in Duluth’s Lincoln Park neighborhood is expanding. They bought a neighboring store front and have plans to open it up in the next few months. The new space will open to offer more seating to comfortably accommodate its customers. OMC also plans to put in a brand new whiskey bar, where they will even serve…

Duluthians Stand Together with Muslim Community after Tragedy in New Zealand

"This broke trust. "

DULUTH, Minn. – Emotionally heartbroken by the tragedy in New Zealand, Muslims and Non–Muslims are standing in solidarity. Community groups from around Duluth stood with signs outside the Islamic Center of the Twin Ports to show support for the local Islamic community in Duluth. “Tears came to my eyes for the support we got here. We felt so lucky to…

Healthcare Professionals from the Northland Attend St. Luke’s Time Critical Conference

"It takes a village take care of these patients."

DULUTH, Minn. – About a 100 healthcare providers attended a conference in Duluth to build skills on how to handle trauma before a patient can be taken a hospital. Health professionals presented case by case scenarios of time critical illnesses or injuries such as heart attacks and strokes. The group also learned strategies for patient management and the importance of…

Damiano Center Celebrates 37 years of Supporting the Community of Duluth

Last year, the community kitchen served more than 100,000 meals.

DULUTH, Minn. – On this date in 1982 the Damiano Center served its first meal in Duluth. Today, they celebrate their  37th anniversary. The community kitchen celebrated by sharing a delicious lunch with visitors. The Damiano center was founded as a temporary soup kitchen during a deep recession. Now it’s the largest emergency meal provider in Northeastern Minnesota and also…

The Headache of Potholes Can Be Costly for Drivers

Depending on the type of damage it can cost between $400 to more than $1,000 for repairs.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s no surprise this time of year potholes are a big issue in Duluth. Not only is it a headache to ride through them. It may even hurt your wallet. Big repairs are sometimes needed for damage caused when drivers hit potholes. Potholes happen when water seeps into the roads. When the water freezes the road expands, leaving…

Maritime Visitor Center Does Some Spring Cleaning

Maritime officials tell us more than 500,000 visitors check out the museum every year.

DULUTH, Minn. – Spring cleaning is underway at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center ahead of tourism season. Today about 20 volunteers spent the afternoon wiping down artifacts and polishing up the museum. Maritime officials tell us more than 500,000 visitors check out the museum every year. They’re thankful for the help from volunteers. “It’s just nice that people choose…

Duluth Heights Community Club Shuts It’s Doors

The nearly 50-year-old building has deteriorated over the years.

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Heights Community Club closed its doors this week. The nearly 50-year-old building has deteriorated over the years. Now it is no longer safe for people to operate. City Officials told Fox 21 the roof is leaking, causing the ceiling to collapse and electrical systems to be impacted. The roof would need to be rebuilt in order…

Restoration Companies Ready to Help as Flooding Begins in the Northland

Dry wall is one of the most common trouble spots.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – There are many stages in the process of dealing with flood damage and now local restoration companies are gearing up to be ready Flood damage can weaken elements within a home. Dry wall is one of the most common trouble spots. When assessing damage companies like Paul Davis Restoration uses thermos– imaging technology to detect the specific…

Local Pub Getting Ready for St. Patrick’s Day Festivities

Festivities begin on Friday and last through Sunday.

DULUTH, Minn. – The luck of the Irish is in the air with St. Patrick’s Day weekend quickly approaching. Dubh Linn Irish Brew Pub and restaurant in downtown Duluth is always a hot spot for St. Patrick’s celebrations. They’ve got a specialty menu filled with Irish traditional favorites like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips The owner of Dubh Linn’s…

DNR is Reminding Fish House Deadline is Coming Up

Anglers could face a fine and risk having fish houses confiscated if they are removed.

DULUTH, Minn. – the deadline to remove ice houses from Minnesota lakes is quickly approaching. The Department of Natural Resources tells us structures must be removed by March 18th for most of Northern Minnesota Anglers could face a fine and risk having fish houses confiscated if they are removed. In the meantime officials are urging safety first especially while out…

Duluth Ordinance Possible Solution to Child Care Shortage in the Northland

City Council is Expected to Vote by the end of the Month

DULUTH, Minn. – Finding quality child care in the Northland has been a challenge for many parents in the area. In Duluth there are about one hundred fifty licensed family child care homes and centers, but it is not enough to meet the demand of more than one thousand openings still needed to cover the deficit in Duluth. Local leaders…

Minnesota Breweries May Be Forced to Stop Selling Growlers Under Current Barrel Cap Law

Growlers account for 30% of Castle Danger's Taproom sales.

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Several Minnesota breweries are advocating to change a law, which puts limitations on barrel production and growler sales. If the law stays the same brewery owners believe it could prevent potential business growth. In Minnesota, breweries are only allowed to produce up to 20,000 barrels of craft beer while selling growlers out of their taprooms. Right…

North Shore Tourism Booming This Winter

Two harbors is a popular destination for winter activities like snowmobiling or ice fishing.

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – With all the snow in the Northland this year  means tourism is booming along the north shore. Two harbors is a popular destination for winter activities like snowmobiling or ice fishing. The quaint town has seen an influx of visitors and the businesses couldn’t be happier. “With snow comes romantic getaways a lot of people are…

Whether You Love It or Hate It, Salting the Roads is Here to Stay

MnDOT and St. Louis county see no signs of stopping their salting to fight icy conditions any time soon.

DULUTH, Minn.-  More snow coming means more salt on roads. And while it’s sometimes annoying for drivers, salt can be an unsung hero during snowstorms. But will we have enough of it to last through the rest of a very snowy season?. MnDOT used over 25 thousand tons of salt on the roads so far this Winter- that’s right on…

Hardware Stores are Busy as Snow is Coming for the Northland

Steel shovels and salt are hot ticket items that are flying out the doors of stores.

DULUTH, Minn. – At Marshall Hardware, snow supplies like shovels are in popular demand as customers are preparing for the upcoming snow. People in the Northland have been tasked with finding snow supplies all winter long. As snow continues, their stashes of salt and sand decrease and it’s even likely to break a shovel while trying to clear heavy snow…

Empowered Women’s Network Celebrates International Women’s Day

The network will meet again at the holiday center on April 12th.

DULUTH, Minn. – Empowered Women’s Network celebrated International Women’s Day at a monthly luncheon at the Holiday Center. The event gives women an opportunity to network and encourage other women from around the Northland. Every month empowered women’s network invites a new key speaker. This month’s special guest shared with the women her wisdom on failure. “We have to actually…

Traveling Stem-based Toy Exhibit Opens at the Depot

Families can visit the exhibit for a discount on March 17th for "$25 Family Rate Sunday."

DULUTH, Minn. – A traveling toy exhibit is now open at the Depot for kids and parents who have always wanted to know the inside story of their favorite toy. Visitors of the exhibit will get a look at the inner workings of more than ten different toys like Etch–a–sketch and Dancing Elmo. Families can also make their own toy…

Moms Demand Action Fight for Stricter Gun Control

About 20 states have already enacted laws that would require background checks for all gun sales and another 14, including DC, adopted similar Red Flag Laws.

DULUTH, Minn. – Moms Demand Action in Minnesota has grown from five local groups to over twenty statewide. Members are continuing the fight to keep gun control a top priority. Under a current federal and Minnesota law background checks are only required for gun purchases at a licensed dealer. The group says that leaves an open window of opportunity for…

Essentia Showcases New Robotic Assisted Arm Used for Knee & Hip Surgeries

It also creates better accuracy during a knee or hip replacement surgery and cuts down on time in the operating room.

DULUTH, Minn. – Today, Essentia demonstrated a new robotic assisted arm which they now use to help during hip and knee replacement surgeries. The “Mako” will allow surgeons to plan ahead to map out the areas of concern. It also creates better accuracy during a knee or hip replacement surgery and cuts down on time in the operating room and…

Child Advocates from Across the Nation Visit Duluth for Training Hosted By First Witness Child Advocacy Center

First witness will have another training course for advocates at the Duluth Institute next week.

DULUTH, Minn. – More than 15 child advocates from around the U.S. have been in Duluth this week for a three day training course hosted by First Witness Child Advocacy Center. The participants went through hands on practices and role play…. During the course they learned how to implement advocacy principles to build stronger relationships with families of abuse. A…

Life House Gets Green Light for New Annex Construction

Life House is hoping to open the new annex by summer or early fall.

DULUTH, Minn. – Good news for Life House in Duluth. Construction has begun on a project to add a new annex to its current building. The addition will become the new home for the organization’s youth education and employment program. The building will have a state of the art classroom with the latest technology. It will also house a workshop…

Snow Piles Causes Concern for Drivers in the Northland

Large snow mounds impairs drivers line of sight while on the roads.

DULUTH, Minn. – Snow mounds near intersections are reaching concerning heights and now drivers are speaking out. At almost every intersection in Duluth, snow mounds of different heights can be found. Many of them are blocking drivers’ views. Now when a driver approaches an intersection extra caution is often needed to stay safe and avoid accidents. “Its difficult to get…

Nepotism Policy Introduced at St. Louis County Board Meeting

The proposed guidelines would put limitations on any county employee from hiring and supervising a family member or significant other.

DULUTH, Minn. – It was back in January when St. Louis County Attorney Mark Rubin hired his son Tony as a prosecutor. That decision prompted the County board to introduce a nepotism policy for discussion. The non–existence of a nepotism policy within St. Louis County is sparking some controversy, but it also brought out conflicting opinions at today’s county board…

Bridgeman’s is Closed Until Tuesday for Renovations

"I think the look we are putting together is really fun. I think it kind of spans the generations," said owner Jay Broman.

DULUTH, Minn. – Heads up to breakfast and ice cream fans. Bridgeman’s in Duluth will be closed until Tuesday for phase two of renovations, which means a big facelift. Bridgeman’s has been in its current location across the street from Miller Hill Mall in Duluth since 19–74 and  changes haven’t been made since. The restaurant plans to gut the whole building,…

Wisconsin Ranks Highest in the Nation for Elderly Fall-related Deaths

About 25,000 die each year nationally.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Recent numbers show Wisconsin has the nation’s highest rate of deadly falls among the elderly. Falling can always be hard on anyone, especially for those sixty five and older. A fall can be dangerous and even potentially deadly. Elderly fall injuries and deaths are increasing at a rapid pace across the country. More than one thousand people…

LSC Hosts English Language Conference for Educators in the Northland

Discussions focused on writing and other aspects of teaching and learning English

DULUTH, Minn. – Lake Superior College welcomed more than 50 educators from around the region and world hoping to provide more ways to engage students learning English as a second language. This annual summit is a time for educators to come together and share ideas on how to better serve their students. They sat through discussions focused on writing and…

United Way Needs Community’s Help to Raise 40k in 40 Days

United Way will soon reach the end of their fiscal year.

DULUTH, Minn. – Head of the Lakes United Way wants to raise $40,000 in 40 days to support local organizations that help provide basic needs to people in the Northland The United Way raises money year round, but they will soon reach the end of their fiscal year. They are hoping the campaign will bring awareness to more than 50…

UWS Hosts Nearly 90 Employers from Around the Region for Annual Job Fair

I think there are some changes in the economy right now where a lot more employers are hiring right now," said Director of Career Services Cortney Alexander-Doyle

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Nearly 90 employers from around the twin ports hoped to recruit new employees at University of Wisconsin Superior today. Finding a job can be difficult for anyone in the workforce. Thanks to UWS, students and community members get a chance to network with employers from the region. The Head of the Lakes job and internship fair at…

City Officials are Hopeful for Redevelopment Plans Now That Carter Hotel Gone

"There is a real broad vision that there's great opportunity in that area," said Kristi Stokes

DULUTH, Minn. – Now that the old Carter Hotel has been torn down city officials are looking forward to opportunities to breathe new life into downtown. The city says that the deteriorating hotel had attracted graffiti and vandalism for years. They believe it had become an eye–sore to nearby businesses and there were several vacancies nearby. Kristi Stokes from the…

Sun Reflecting Off of Snow Can Be Dangerous to the Eyes

Ultra violet rays are twice as damaging to the eyes in the winter.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – When it comes to the winter we often think of ways to avoid injury, especially to our back from shoveling while also trying not to slip and fall. One area that might be neglected are your eyes. We all know it can be very difficult for drivers to see when the sun reflects off the snow, but…

Students Participate in 2019 Summit on Equity, Race, & Ethnicity

"Our students are the next wave of those leaders."

DULUTH, Minn. – More than 400 students participated in UMD’s 2019 Summit on Equity, Race, and Ethnicity. The goal is creating an even more inclusive campus community. Over 40 workshops were held in the Kirby Student Center at UMD focusing on a variety of topics.   Among the workshops, many provide knowledge about how access to opportunities may not be…

UMD Could Get Big Money in Proposed Bonding Bill

"It needs serious upgrades in terms of air ventilation, life safety, and code compliance issues."

DULUTH, Minn. – Governor Walz recently announced his billion dollar proposal to fund projects statewide, including multi–million dollar plans to renovate and preserve UMD’s infrastructure. The school could get a percentage of $100 million split between all University of Minnesota campuses to preserve a former chemistry building at UMD. Also, about another $4 million dollars proposed in the bill will…

Energy-Efficient Innovations Showcased at the DECC for Minnesota Power’s 29th Annual Energy Design Conference

Nearly 40 exhibits showcased a variety of energy-efficient products, services, and practices.

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Power brings energy–efficient innovations back to Duluth for its 29th Annual Energy Design conference at the DECC. The annual conference has something for everyone. Minnesota Power works with energy conscious agencies from around the state to put spotlight on new innovations to save energy. Nearly 40 exhibits showcased a variety of energy-efficient products, services, and practices….

Methodist Church Votes to Continue a Ban on Gay Marriage and Gay Clergy

"If it was the United States' decision, we would have full equality in our United Methodist Churches."

  DULUTH, Minn. – Supporters of LGBTQ inclusion within the United Methodist Church are devastated after a final vote, at a 3-day international conference, upholds an ongoing ban of same sex weddings and gay clergy. A local Methodist Church that welcomes the LGBTQ community is now speaking out. More than half of the 800 delegates supported the final vote to…

Know Your Neighbor: Produce and Goods Sold at the Lincoln Park Winter Farmer’s Market

"We are a farm North of Duluth, we grow small apples and fruits to make fruit vinegar."

DULUTH, Minn. – Produce can be hard to come by for everyone in the winter. A partnership between Community Action’s Duluth Seeds of Success Program and the Duluth Folk School brings the Lincoln Park Winter Farmer’s Market to provide produce even during a slow season. The Duluth Folk School is known for supporting the community through creativity and this winter…

MnDOT Updates Public on “Can of Worm” Reconstruction Project

"It is very important that the look and feel of this project be acceptable to the neighborhood."

DULUTH, Minn. – Today the Minnesota Department of Transportation was at Clyde Iron Works to give a monthly update on the more than $300 million “Can of Worms” reconstruction project expected for Duluth… During the public meeting MnDOT officials explained there will be major traffic restrictions during the 2020 construction season, but it will be well worth it. “It is…

Demolition of the Former Carter Hotel Postponed

"The band is interested in making sure we are good to neighbors. we intend to take all precautions we can to protect the memorial."

DULUTH, Minn. – The long–awaited teardown of the former Carter Hotel on North Second Avenue East was put on hold today. The site is supposed to be replaced with a parking lot for the Fond– Du– Luth Casino. Officials at the construction site tell us the demolition was postponed until tomorrow due to a last minute inspection. In an email…

Free Day at Lake Superior Zoo

The free day was introduced last year in the spring

DULUTH, Minn. – This week Duluth Public schools have been on winter recess. Today, many students and their families spent their time off enjoying a free day at Lake Superior Zoo. Visitors had a chance to check out Lana the Tiger and all the other animals at the zoo. The free day was introduced last year in the spring, but…

New Minnesota Pollution Control Commissioner Visits Duluth

About $500,000 is needed to complete the cleanup project at Rice's Point and the St. Louis River.

DULUTH, Minn. – The new Minnesota Pollution Control Commissioner visited Duluth to check out ongoing projects in the area. This comes after Governor Walz included funding for pollution cleanup and climate–change outreach in his budget proposal. The city of Duluth and the MPCA is involved in a multi–year effort to clean up around Lake Superior, but more money is needed…

Thousands of Kids Race in Barnebirkie on Day One of Birkie Weekend

"Birkie fever! I am a true believer!"

HAYWARD, Wis. – Barnebirkie is the one event that makes Birkie dreams happen for thousands of kids from around the region. “The Birkie gets in your blood in different ways. I’ve been coming here since I was eight or nine,” said Cordell Manz. For more than 30 years, big smiles have been seen on the bright faces of many young…

Business Picks Up in Hayward During Day One of Birkie Weekend

It's like seeing an old friend you haven't seen in forever."

HAYWARD, Wis.- Business is booming throughout Hayward as thousands of visitors are in the area for the Birkie. Over at Coop’s Pizza Parlor staff say they are seeing many returning guests who are more like family now. “I love it because some of them I won’t recognize at first,” said Coop’s waitress Lora Hills. “They come in all frosty and…

West Duluth Business Owner is Happy Snow Mounds Are Now Gone

"We're here too in West Duluth."

DULUTH, Minn. – Businesses in West Duluth are finally happy the five foot snow banks hiding their store fronts are now gone after Duluth snow crews cleared them away. One local business owner has many reason to be happy the mounds are no longer there. “We’re here too in West Duluth,” said owner of West Duluth Sewing and Design Janette Dederling….

Mail Carriers Deal With Hazardous Conditions While on Their Routes

It's all part of the job."

DULUTH, Minn. – Saint Louis County Public Works wants to remind property owners to shovel around their mail boxes to minimize the risk by damage from a snowplow. Earlier today we caught up with post office mail carrier who is dealing with those hazardous conditions. They say slippery sidewalks streets and covered mailboxes make it difficult for carriers to deliver…

Number of Snow Blower Repairs Are Getting Higher this Winter

Currently, there is a two week backup to complete repairs.

DULUTH, Minn. – Denny’s Lawn and Garden in Woodland is pretty busy repairing snow blowers this winter, after heavy snow has hit the Northland. Broken belts and gear boxes are some common causes for a snow blower to break down. Denny’s staff say banks created from plowing puts extra tension on a blower as people attempt to clear the snow…

Hermantown Mayor Running For St. Louis County Commissioner

PROCTOR, Minn. – Hermantown Mayor Wayne Boucher has announced his candidacy for the St. Louis County Board seat for the fifth district, which was vacated after Pete Stauber was elected to Congress. Mayor Boucher, also a retired Hermantown police officer, began his political career on the Hermantown City Council before becoming mayor of the city in 2009. Mayor Boucher is…

Monthly Conversations Gets Community Talking About Environmental Issues

"One step is getting the community talking, thinking and sharing ideas."

DULUTH, Minn. – Every month organizations from around the region visit the Duluth Branch of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to talk about environmental issues affecting the region. One of the big topics today was how Duluth is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the area. Organizers say these monthly conversations are important for community involvement. “We need to…

Two Adults and Three Kids Out of a Home After a House Fire in Lakewood Township

One person treated for smoke inhalation. No other injuries reported.

LAKEWOOD TOWNSHIP, Minn. – Two adults and their three kids are without a home after a fire. The fire occurred about 11 pm last night on the 3200 block of Tischer Road in Lakewood Township. Multiple fire agencies responded to the scene. The family was already out of the house when authorities arrived. One person was treated at the scene…