Author: Nachai Taylor

Protecting Your Children This Flu Season in the Wake of First Pediatric Flu Death in Wisconsin

The virus can turn in to a more serious condition like pneumonia or an ear infection.

DULUTH, Minn. – More than a dozen flu-related deaths have happened in Wisconsin since last October. Now a child has become one of those victims. According to the CDC, children are at the highest risk of dying from flu-related symptoms. The most recent case in Wisconsin shows how important it is to protect your children this flu season. Health officials…

Funding Delays Construction Plans for New Ashland Police Department Building

"You risk a lot of officer safety."

ASHLAND, Wisc. – For over 40 years the Ashland Police Department has been in the basement of city hall. After years of planning to start building a new police station there construction is now on hold until funding is found and approved by the Ashland City Council. Officers say the current space makes it difficult to do their jobs. Without…

Second Graders Compete in the 12th Annual Ikidarod

Along the course students stopped at check points like a real race.

Dozens of second graders from North Shore Community School played the roles of mushers and sled dogs in the twelfth annual Ikidarod Race. Five sled kids pulled a musher on a plastic slay around the school’s nature trail for about a half mile. Along the course students stopped at check points like a real race. Over the last month the…

Making Memories at While Fishing at the Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel, & RV Show

Duluth Boat, Travel, Sports, and RV Show ends on Sunday.

Every year the Duluth Boat, Travel, Sports, and RV show has entertainment for everyone. The trout pond is helping families make lasting memories while fishing. For over fifty years, a tank filled with fish has been the highlight for many children visiting the show. Kids of all ages and adults test their fishing skills by attempting to catch at least…

Families Honor Loved Ones at 4th Annual Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women’s Memorial

"What amazes me is how a person can just stuff out another person's life, like killing a fly."

DULUTH, Minn. – Research shows that Native American women and girls are among the most targeted for trafficking and murder. The Native Lives Matter coalition hosted its fourth annual Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women’s memorial ceremony Each person in the room received a red ribbon as the ceremony began with a prayer. A bowl filled with tobacco, smoldered in the…

Northland Flower Shops Busy this Valentine’s Day

It really feels good when someone walks in the door and says Happy Valentine's Day."

DULUTH, Minn. – Valentine’s Day can be one of the busiest days for flower shops in the Northland. Today, we stopped by Dunbar Floral and Gifts on East 4th Street to find out how flowers sales are going. Dunbar staff says they have been working since 7 am preparing bouquets and gifts for customers this Valentine’s Day. The business’s co–owner…

American Heart Association Hosted 15th Annual Go Red For Women Luncheon

One third of women's deaths are caused by heart disease or stroke.

DULUTH, Minn. – The American Heart Association celebrated women’s heart health at the 15th annual Go Red for Women lunch today at the DECC. Healthcare providers from Essentia were on hand to give blood pressure testing and provide more information about how to be aware of the risks of heart disease. Several other organizations were also available for women to…

Homeless Person’s Bill of Rights Coalition Teaches Homeless How to Survive the Cold

"I just like being able to give back."

DULUTH, Minn. – The Homeless Person’s Bill of Rights Coalition is connecting with the homeless community by starting a new group learning series. For the first time the coalition is teaching the homeless a few winter survival tips. Everyone at today’s session received a hat, warm socks and even a few tasty treats. The coalition invited a UMD Professor and…

Lake Superior College Hosts 10th Annual Student Success Day

The annual conference is designed to help students explore career options and networking opportunities.

DULUTH, Minn. – Students at Lake Superior College had the day off from regular classes today to take part in the school’s 10th annual student success day The annual conference is designed to help students explore career options and networking opportunities. Students also participated in dozens of informational sessions like learning about personal wellness. LSC’s goal was to give students…

UMD Pharmacy Students Take Part in Annual Research Symposium

Another pharmacy research symposium was also held today in the Twin Cities at the University of Minnesota.

DULUTH, Minn. – The annual research symposium was held at the College of Pharmacy today. The event is intended to showcase recent research from students and faculty. Each year a special keynote speaker is invited. Their special guest this year was a clinical pharmacist from Essentia who shared his experiences with research. Organizers are hoping the annual event encourages students…

Superior School District Extends School Day by Seven Minutes To Make Up for Snow Days

In Superior 1,050 instructional hours is required for students in grades 1-6 and 1,137 for students in grades 7- 12.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – For the 2018–2019 school year Superior schools set aside two extra days in case school had to close for bad weather. Recent snow falls have pushed the district beyond that cushion. To stay in compliance with the state of Wisconsin, the school district is now making up time by extending each school day by seven minutes starting…

Snowmobile Drivers are Asked to Be Safe After Five Deaths in Wisconsin Over the Weekend

During the 2017-2018 season The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reported 14 snowmobile deaths and Minnesota reported seven.

DULUTH, Minn. – Five people are dead after a weekend of snowmobile accidents in Wisconsin. Experts are reminding riders the importance of snowmobiling safety. Knowing the trail you are riding on is one way to ensure safety while riding a snowmobile. Also, it is recommended to never ride alone and to stay on your side of the trail. Speed is…

Safe Driving in Snowy Conditions

One thing to remember is to know your braking system.

DULUTH, Minn. -In Duluth alone, there are thousands of drivers on the roads every day. As snowy conditions continue, drivers should take extra care to be safe on the roads. Snow driving safety starts way before you actually hit the road. Drivers should clear their cars of snow and frost from windows. In Minnesota, it is against the law to…

Duluth Library Introduces Readers to Different Books through “Book Bingo”

Instead of numbers, staff called out book titles.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Downtown Duluth Library brought a new meaning to reading and bingo. Today, 20 people at the library received a bingo card. Instead of numbers,  staff called out book titles. Each winner received a free book. Grand prize winners also won a gift card to Barnes and Noble. “Book Bingo” started about three years ago and library…

Local Non-Profit Connects Women from Around Duluth at Monthly Meeting

"I think they're energy is renewed."

DULUTH, Minn. – The Empowered Women’s Network welcomes women from all backgrounds to attend their monthly meeting. The group’s mission is to connect and encourage women in many different ways. Students, retirees, and other career women were among the dozens enjoying a delicious lunch at the monthly networking event. To get to know everyone, each woman introduced themselves by giving…

Hardware Stores Trying to Keep Up as Salt and Shovels are Selling Quickly

"Actually the warehouse where get it from ran out because so much salt is being sold."

DULUTH, Minn. – Today, hardware stores are busy with people coming in to buy winter supplies. Fox 21 stopped by Marshall hardware on East Superior Street. Quite a few different types of shovels and bags of salt have been selling very quickly. Patrons are also purchasing space heaters and even heat tape to warm up the pipes in their homes….

An Economic Study Shows the LS&M Railroad Can Be More Lucrative For Duluth

The study also shows about one million dollars a year can be spent by railroad users.

DULUTH, Minn. – For generations families have ridden the Train that runs on the Lake Superior and Mississippi railroad to make lifetime memories And the Friends of Western Duluth Parks and trails partnered with the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at UMD for this survey. Friends of Western Duluth Parks and Trails is worried about a plan to shorten…

College of St. Scholastic “Snow Team” Attempts to Keep Up with Ongoing Snowfall on Campus

The grounds team is also scheduled to come in early tomorrow .

DULUTH, Minn. – All hands were on deck today at the College of St. Scholastic, as ground crews attempted to clear more than seven inches of snow that has already fallen in Duluth. About 15 campus snow crew members have been working since 5 AM this morning plowing parking lots, shoveling sidewalks and stairs. The building and grounds team incorporated…

CDC says This Year’s Flu Season Has Been Mild; MedExpress Sees Increase in Patients

"The on–set of the flu is very fast and it usually includes fever,"

DULUTH, Minn. – Across the U.S., roughly over 150 million doses of the flu vaccine are expected to be given during this flu season. Today, we stopped by the MedExpress Urgent Care in Duluth to see how the virus is affecting the community. Fortunately, this flu season has been very mild, according to the CDC, but MedExpress has seen an…

Pottery Burn is Now Open After Relocating to Superior

"This is a little bit closer to home for me. It is a central location."

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Pottery Burn is now open for business after moving from the Village Square Mall in Duluth to Tower Avenue in Superior. Customers can still expect the same fun activities like painting mugs, plates, or other pottery. The new space will also provide more room for parties and classes. There is even a gift shop for patrons to…

Teachers in Minnesota Visit Duluth for MAAP Conference

"Teaching in an alternative setting is a little unique."

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs also known as MAAP is an organization that works to lead, support, and improve experiences in the classroom for students who may have learning disabilities. Representatives from several organizations and businesses from around Minnesota presented their expertise to educators giving ideas that could be used during the school year. Throughout the…

Students Enjoy Festivities at the 45th Annual Sno-Week at WITC

Daily prizes are given and at the end of the week one student could win $100 in cash.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College in Superior is celebrating its second day into their 45th annual Sno-Week. Today, students enjoyed a host of activities such as making photo key chains, root beer floats and participating in an interactive program with reptiles. One student volunteer we spoke to said events like this really help lift their spirits during the…

Winter Temperatures Can Be Dangerous for Stray Animals

It can be useful to check Facebook and online websites to try and find the owners of the animals.

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies has already seen about 30 strays enter their shelter since the start of 2019. Cold temperatures can be dangerous for strays and lost pets and the need for help becomes greater as winter continues. Winter is a crucial time for strays in the Northland. As temperatures continue to drop, it can be common to see…

Northland Foundation Receives Award for Combatting Childcare Crisis

More than 30% of childcare services have become "Parent Aware."

DULUTH, Minn. – Today,  the Northland Foundation was honored with the Trailblazer award, from Blue Cross Blue Shield, for their efforts to help provide better childcare in greater Minnesota. The Northland Foundation’s initiative “Parent Aware” works to help rate daycare centers along with helping parents understand which daycare fits their children’s needs. The Vice President of the foundation says the…

Polar Plunge is Back in Duluth on February 16th

530 plungers are set to participant in the annual event.

DULUTH, Minn. – Once again, A host of people from across the Northland will take a leap into Lake Superior for the Annual Polar Plunge on February 16th. The goal of the annual event is to raise money for the Special Olympics. Just last year, fundraising efforts in Minnesota finally hit more than one million dollars combined over the last…

Snowmobile Sales are Up During This Winter Season

The store has sold about 150 sleds.

DULUTH, Minn. – The cold snap is over for the moment, but tons of snow is still around for snowmobile riders to enjoy some fun. Today we stopped by Duluth Lawn and sport to see how sales are going. So far, the store has sold about 150 sleds, which is an improvement from last year’s sales. Duluth Lawn and Sport…

Most Common Causes for Winter-Related Fires

"A lot of fires are started from carelessness. "

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – About 900 people die and over 2 billion dollars’ worth of property loss occurs each year due to winter-related home fires across the country. Studies show that heating and cooking incidents are the most common causes for house fires during the cold season. One big concern is the use of space heaters. The Superior Fire Department recommends…

St. Louis County Public Works Debuts New Anti-Icing System for Treating Roads

New system can reduce salt us by up to 40%

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Louis County now has a new anti– icing system for roads. Officials have also purchased new equipment costing around $1.2 million to help pre–treat roads. This new anti–icing system will not only relieve the stress of icy roads this winter, but St. Louis County Public Works says it’s also more environmentally friendly. Gour brand new trucks…

City Crews Repair Second Water Main Found Near Mount Royal

"We have no way of warming up the pipes."

DULUTH, Minn. – City crews have been working countless hours near Mount Royal Market fixing a water main break from yesterday. During the repair they found another main that needed to be fixed and more bad pipes that continued to gush with water. City officials say as temperatures fluctuate, the ground shifts causing the pipes to snap. Officials also tell…

West Duluth Warming Shelter is Making Strides

More than 250 people have entered the facility since it's opening on January 17th.

DULUTH, Minn. – About three-fourths of visitors to CHUM have experienced some form of homelessness in their lifetime. The local organization and the homeless community could not be more grateful that the West Duluth warming center is open for use. As overnight temperatures have fallen way below zero recently, the need for use of the warming facility  has grown. So…

Subzero Temperatures Could Leave Home Brutally Cold Due to Drafty Windows

"Condensation is going to deteriorate your window, it could even possibly create mold."

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend we will get a little relief from subzero temperatures. As the frigid cold is expected to return, drafty windows can leave your home feeling frosty. Glass Guru in Duluth offers a long list of window services including diagnosing and repairing window insulation problems. Experts say the common reason a window may be drafty is typically…

Plows Pulled From Roads in Rochester Due to Mechanical Issues

Plows in 11 Southeastern counties weren't working properly due to mechanical issues.

DULUTH, Minn. – Snow plows have been pulled off of the roads in parts of Minnesota after the below zero temperatures caused them not to work properly. MnDot says plows in 11 Southeastern counties weren’t working properly due to mechanical issues. They choose to keep the plows off of the roads in the interest of driver safety. The local MnDot…

Family Remembers Heroin Overdose Victim

"He felt alone."

DULUTH, Minn. – Just a few days ago, the Duluth Police announced a spike in opioid overdoses, which is causing concern in the area. Since the start of 2019 the city has already seen five fatalities. 26–year–old Jess Sprately recently died due to a heroin overdose. The tragic and unexpected loss has left those who love him in mourning. On…

Duluth International Airport Needs More Bookings For Test Flight to Nashville

Officials are hoping for people to book the flight by February 15th.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth International Airport is still looking to fill the majority of seats for a new test flight direct to Nashville this may. About three–fourths of the plane is empty right now. Officials are hoping for people to book the flight by February 15th. The package includes round-trip airfare from Duluth to Nashville, a four day, three…

Its National Plan Your Vacation Day, Freezing Temperatures are Motivating People to Get Away

Research shows that individuals who plan are more likely to use all of their time off.

DULUTH, Minn. – Today is “National Plan Your Vacation” day. As freezing temperatures are expected to continue, Divine Destinations in Duluth is helping people get started with their travel plans. According to the U.S. Travel Association, more than 700 million vacation days went unused in 2018. On a very cold day like today people are more likely to look for…

Free Rummage Sale at the Damiano Center to Make Room In “Free” Store

Clothing for men, women, and children were available for anyone to grab.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Damiano Center is running out of room in their “free” store. Today the center hosted a free rummage sale for the community to access. Clothing for men, women, and children were available for anyone to grab. Normally Damiano’s “free” store has a limit on the amount of items a person can take in a day, but…

Cookies and Coloring at the Bong Center for Kids Enjoying a Day Off from School

"I'm pretty sure it is her great uncle"

  SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Children of all ages explored the imagination of putting color to paper at the Richard I Bong Center’s Cookies and Coloring event today. It is a day designed to give kids something fun to do with schools being closed due to cold weather stint in the Northland Drawings, crayons, cookies and icing filled the tables in…

Smoke Shops Worry Duluth’s 21-Plus Tobacco Ordinance Will Hurt Business

Nationally, more than 310 communities in 20 states have adopted a Tobacco 21 policy.

DULUTH, Minn. – Supporters of the ordinance cite research shows that increasing the tobacco purchase age to 21 would greatly reduce the tobacco use by youth, but smoke shops in the area are concerned about the potential impact on their businesses. Back in June of 2018, the city of Duluth implemented a ban on the sale of menthol and flavored…

First Official Day the IRS is Accepting Tax Filings

Tax refunds are expected to take two week to process.

DULUTH, Minn. -Today is officially day one taxes can be accepted by the IRS, after a three week reprieve was put in place to temporarily end the government shutdown. The IRS recently recalled more than 40,000 employees to help with the processing of taxes before the reprieve. During that time some tax payers were able to file, but e–filing documents…

Boy Scout Troop Hosts Blood Drive in Duluth

Three or four blood drives a year can save more than 500 lives

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the Red Cross, blood donations decrease during winter months. A local Boy Scout troop hosted a blood drive at the Northland Country Club. For every unit of blood donated, the Red Cross will give $10 to Boy Scout Troop 9. The money will fund future scout needs. Although the event is beneficial for the troop,…

Billy’s Bar Gets Ready For 35th Annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon

The Beargrease is a small non-profit committed to the fans.

DULUTH, Minn. – 60 mushers will be in line and ready to go starting Sunday for the John Beargrease Sled Dog race. Crews were at Billy’s bar getting set up for the marathon festivities. The owner of the bar says he expects big crowd to watch the start of the 35th Annual race. “It’s very exciting we are the start…

Duluth Police are Fighting to Reduce Opioid Overdoses

Duluth experienced seven opioid related deaths in 2018.

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth has already seen 16 opioid overdoses since the start of the year, five resulted in a death. Authorities recently apprehended 26-year-old Jacob Johnson and 49-year-old Jamie McNeary for an opioid related death, but investigators say this is just the start when it comes to cracking down on opioid distribution. In Duluth, opioid overdoses dropped from 150…

Affinity Plus Credit Union Opens In New Location

Maple Grove Road location is the only Affinity Plus branch in Duluth.

  DULUTH, Minn. – Affinity Plus Credit Union hosted a grand opening for its newly built branch after relocating to Maple Grove Road in Duluth. The Affinity Plus is excited to serve their members better with a new drive-thru, larger parking lot and new ATM. Staff at the credit union say they are dedicated to making everyone feel comfortable while…

Alternative to Exercising Outside to Stay Fit during the Winter

Miller Hill Mall welcomes more walkers.

DULUTH, Minn. – More sub–zero temperatures and wind chills are on the way making it difficult for people to stick with their health goals. Endless loops around the Miller Hill Mall are helping people of all ages maintain a healthy lifestyle through exercise. Before stores open, it is common to see people taking advantage of the opportunity to circle the…

Superior Jaycees Sits Car on Ice to Raise Money for the Community

Raffle tickets will be sold during Ice Festival at Barker's Island.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Heads up to visitors of Barker’s Island. If you see car resting on the ice, don’t panic. It’s Superior Jaycees newest fundraiser. The organization will be selling raffle tickets at Pond Hockey and A–1 movers in Superior for people to guess how long it will take the car to fall through the ice. The “Superior Sinker” has…

United Way of Carlton County Connects Residents to Local Resources

Operation Community Connect is an annual event.

CLOQUET, Minn. – The United Way of Carlton County connected residents to local resources during their Annual Operation Community Connect event at Journey Church in Cloquet. Local Service agencies were on hand to provide information to residents who are in need of energy assistance, housing assistance, and much more. Every year the goal for United Way is to offer awareness…

American Airlines Comes to Duluth Int. Airport with Direct Flights to Chicago

New service will provide affordability for Duluth travelers.

DULUTH, Minn.- American Airlines brings this new direct service to provide even more affordability to travelers in Duluth. Starting in May four daily non–stop flights will be offered two from Duluth and two returns from O’Hare in Chicago. It has been a three year process to get these American Airlines flights in motion, but airport officials are hoping this will…

Ruby’s Pantry Continues to Help Federal Employees Going Without Pay

$10 donation accepted from furloughed workers.

CLOQUET, Minn. – As the prolonged government shutdown reaches day 33, Ruby’s Pantry at the Cloquet National Guard continues to help furloughed workers provide food and supplies for their families. Federal employees, not receiving a pay check due to the shutdown, were able to pick up meat, bread, milk, toilet paper and other personal products for $10. Seeing furloughed workers…

Holiday Center Supports Local Businesses at Marketplace Tuesday

"It's very motivating and exciting."

  DULUTH, Minn.- Locally sourced foods, products and crafts were up for sale from a variety of vendors in Duluth to those walking within the Skywalk system. Guests also enjoyed food and hair demonstrations. Belle Adventure Salon owner says she appreciates the Holiday Center for hosting Marketplace Tuesday. “Its really about collaboration, but also the support they are giving us…