Author: Rusty Mehlberg

Safe Heating Tips as Temperatures Drop Below Zero

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Recent deadly building fires in New York City and Philadelphia are bringing extra attention to safe home heating practices. The Superior Fire Department says heating equipment is one of the top causes for fires in the fall and winter.  By taking several action steps before turning out equipment, such as having a professional check it and using space heaters…

Bitter Cold Increases Risk for Dead Car Batteries

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Below zero temperatures can create a number of problems for vehicles, none more prevalent than a battery that isn’t working properly. One auto mechanic retailer says the design of a vehicle’s alternator helps to keep batteries better charged than in the past, but human error such as leaving lights on or charging chords plugged in after leaving…

Below Zero Temperatures Add More Challenges for Firefighters

SUPERIOR, Wis. – There are many challenges firefighters deal with at any fire scene.  Battling flames when temperatures are below zero adds a new factor of uncertainty. Thursday’s warehouse fire on Superior’s north side occurred when temperatures were around 10-below. Crews need to make sure their equipment does not freeze as water can quickly turn to ice once it leaves their…

Happening Now: Large Warehouse Fire in North End of Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Superior Fire Department crews are actively fighting a warehouse fire in the North End district of Superior. Smoke from this fire did affect traffic along the Blatnik Bridge, which was closed in both directions for nearly two hours. Superior Police say North 3rd Street connecting downtown Superior to Highway 2 remains open at this time. It is advised…

Cold, Snowy Days Helps Duluth Public Library Stay Busy

DULUTH, Minn. – When the weather gets snowy and windy, you may choose to stay inside.  That is what the Duluth Public Library hopes people do this winter. Leaders there say plenty of people choose to make their three locations a gathering place, using their physical and online resources, and just to relax in a warm setting with a good book….

“Freshwater”, Documentary on Lake Superior, Premiers in February

NORTH SHORE, Minn. – Lake Superior will be the focal point of a new documentary set for release next month. “Freshwater” began with a surfing only focus for filmmaker Ian Planchon after seeing people ride the lake’s waves in 2019. “I never knew this group of people existed until we started this documentary,” says Planchon. It has been expanded to include…

Preparing Christmas Trees for Proper Disposal

DULUTH, Minn. – The end of the Christmas holiday season means people with live trees will need a place to properly dispose of them. The Western Lake Superior Sanitary District is reminding people that they cannot be part of curbside pickup.  They will need to be dropped off at one of 11 locations in Duluth and Carlton County. Environmental Program Coordinator…

Push Continues to Get Children, Teens Vaccinated for COVID

DULUTH, Minn. – The FDA’s recent approval for COVID vaccine booster shots for kids ages 12 through 15 has local healthcare providers encouraged that parents will take their kids to get them. Sherry Johnson, a Certified Nurse Practitioner in Infectious Disease at St Luke’s says they have seen a steady demand for kids’ vaccine shots during the recent winter break.  She hopes…

Active Adventures: Curl with Friends at Wild State Cider’s New Outdoor Rink

DULUTH, Minn.- In this week’s Active Adventures, FOX 21’s Rusty Mehlberg takes us to the new outdoor curling rink at Wild State Cider. After seeing the success of bars in the Twin Cities doing this same type of operation, the cider decided to freeze its own rink. They have a goal of hosting an eight-week outdoor curling league along with…

Christmas Lighting Challenge Winners Announced

DULUTH, Minn. – Some of the best Christmas light displays in the Twin Ports region earned special recognition Wednesday. Over 2,700 voters helped to determine the winners of the 7th annual Christmas Lighting Display, covering homes and businesses in Duluth, Superior, Hermantown, Cloquet and other nearby regions. For some, the event is a chance to continue a holiday tradition.  Bill and…

Businesses See Rush of Last Minute Holiday Shoppers

DULUTH, Minn. – With only a few more shopping days left before Christmas, businesses across the Northland are seeing plenty of last minute shoppers. At Fitger’s Mall, business managers say they have been busy the past few days, continuing what has been a strong season. Denise Kaitala, a manager at Duluth Kitchen Co. and Market Gourmet, says she has done her…

New Snowfall Brightens Landscape, Doesn’t Stop Dog Owners

DULUTH, Minn. – Several inches of snow Tuesday morning helped to make the Northland look more appropriate for the upcoming Christmas holiday. Most who were clearing it away from sidewalks and driveways had their usual complaints, but one person prefers the light and fluffy flakes. “I’d rather have snow than cold,” says Curt Timmerman of Duluth, “I mean it stays…

New Recording Studio Opens In Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s a new place for musicians to record in the Twin Ports. Spoon’s Studio recently opened near Lake Superior Zoo. It’s named after the owner Solomon Witherspoon, who says he has always wanted one.  He’s hoping to make the space a place where the city can come together and welcome everyone. “Regardless of who you are, where you…

Preparing for Icy Road Conditions

DULUTH, Minn. – With roads expected to become icy Thursday morning, Minnesota’s DOT is preparing to take on the challenge. District One Public Affairs Coordinator Margie Nelson says the recent warm weather will prevent them from being able to get to roads until either the rain turns to snow or temperatures near freezing.  So drivers will be getting updates on weather…

Salvation Army Still Needs Bell Ringers, Volunteers

DULUTH, Minn. – The Salvation Army is hoping for more volunteers as they continue their Red Kettle fundraising drive. Even with the annual Miner’s Match underway, donations are down 12-percent compared to where they want to be in order to meet their 220-thousand dollar goal. With 864 hours of open volunteer times available at their 18 kettle locations through Christmas Eve,…

Downtown Duluth Announce Holiday Window, Lights Display Winners

DULUTH, Minn. – Several downtown Duluth businesses have been recognized for their way of showing the holiday spirit. 19 locations took part in the Greater Downtown Council’s 16th annual Holiday Window and Lighting Display contest. For Hucklebeary, they were once again one of the people’s choice winners, along with earning the most original display by a retailer. “It feels great,” says…

Valley Youth Center Holding Fudge Fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. – If you don’t want to make your own sweet treats for the holiday season, Valley Youth Center Duluth can help you out. They are selling a wide variety of caramels and fudge, with flavors that include chocolate, chocolate walnut, rocky road, chocolate peanut butter, maple nut, chewy praline, sea salt caramel, chocolate mint swirl, chocolate amaretto swirl, pumpkin…

Ice Fishing Show Returns to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – The DECC is preparing to have ice fishing novice, experts and enthusiasts check out the latest gear and techniques this weekend. The Arrowhead Ice Fishing Winter Show will feature dozens of vendors, host seminars, give people the chance to catch a rainbow trout for prizes, and watch a sea lion show. For Shamrock Production, they’re ready to host…