Community

DECC, Local Theaters Land Thousands in State COVID Relief Grants

It's part of more than $13 million in COVID relief grants, being spread out to convention centers and movie theaters across the state.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center — hit hard by the pandemic — has finally landed some relief from the state in the amount of $500,000. The grant is coming from the Minnesota Department Of Employment And Economic Development (DEED). It’s part of more than $13 million in COVID relief grants from DEED, being spread out to convention centers…

Yellow Bike Coffee Cafe Expands To Lake Superior College

DULUTH, Minn. – Yellow Bike Coffee Cafe officially opened its new permanent location at Lake Superior College. The café offers a variety of beverages and food options made to order for students to grab while on campus. Yellow Bike Coffee Cafe has a flagship store in Hermantown. The general manager believes opening a location on LSC’s campus reminds people the…

Bong Veterans Historical Center Unveils New Permanent Exhibit

The Bong Historical Center in Superior is putting the finishing touches on its new $50,000 exhibit on the Korean and Vietnam wars.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – The Bong Veterans Historical Center is on the home stretch of a nearly two-year project of a brand new exhibit about the Korean and Vietnam wars. Because of grant funds and private donations, the center was able to make this exhibit the largest built since it opened in 2002. “We had some veterans come to us and…

St. Louis County Sees 900 Small Businesses Apply for Phase 3 Grants

The total amount of aid requested comes out to $16.4 million. The county has $3.8 million dollars in grant funding from the state to distribute.

DULUTH, Minn.- 900 businesses in St. Louis County have sought relief through Phase 3 of the county’s small business relief grants. The total amount of aid requested comes out to $16.4 million. The county has $3.8 million dollars in grant funding from the state to distribute. So 200 “first tier” businesses forced to close back in November that received no…

Pandemic Ignites Passion for Many Hobby Enthusiasts

This Week's Knowing Your Neighbors Take You Inside HobbyTown

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – From knitting to sewing, to books and puzzles, hobbies have helped keep the sanity for many Northlanders during a year we’d all like to forget. “We’ve had an excellent year,” said Dan Ring, franchise owner of HobbyTown. Tucked away alongside Miller Trunk Highway in Hermantown, you’ll find this hobbyist’s haven. “I think people are spending time at…

Extreme Cold Frightful for Humans, Delightful for Animals at Zoo

According to Lake Superior Zookeepers, their animals are no strangers to climates like this.

DULUTH, Minn.- While humans have to take extra safety measures in this extreme cold, many animals at the Lake Superior Zoo love to be outside – but with windchills this low, things like frostbite are a still a danger, regardless of species. “Most all of the animals that we have here if they’re outside this is gonna be similar to…

Recent Cold Temperatures Serve As Good Reminder To Check On Older Adults

"Just be mindful. If you have a neighbor that you know is elderly, it doesn't hurt to go check on them to make sure they have everything that they need," said Mary Bovee, the executive director for Age Well Arrowhead.

DULUTH, Minn. – The freezing cold hitting the Northland, this week, can be a strong reminder to check up on older individuals. Elderly adults are among the most vulnerable to extreme temperatures and cold conditions. Recently Duluth Police dispatched a community service officer to help a 79-year-old woman, who called 911 to get assistance shoveling herself out of her home…

An Ice Sauna Is Opening In Canal Park

It stands eight feet tall with about 100 ice bricks weighing in at nearly 200 pounds each.

DULUTH, Minn. – Frigid temperatures are sticking around in Northland, this week, and a local sauna company is helping people embrace the cold. Cedar and Stone Nordic Sauna has built a sauna made completely out of ice. It took roughly five days to create and stands eight feet tall with about 100 ice bricks weighing in at nearly 200 pounds…

Minnesota DEED Awards $13 Million in COVID Relief Grants to Theaters, Convention Centers

DULUTH, Minn. – On Monday, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development awarded over $13 million in COVID relief grants to various convention centers and movie theaters across the state. One of the grant recipients listed is the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center which is to be awarded $500,000. The grants include $4.6 million for 15 convention centers and $8.54…

Essentia Health Eases Visitor Restrictions

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health is making updates to its visitor policy as cases of COVID-19 in the area have started to slow down. According to a Monday press release, beginning Tuesday the hospital will allow one adult visitor per patient per day in all clinics and hospitals. The hospital says this update will also include emergency departments. The changes…

Midday Update 2-8-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, Feb. 8, 2021

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

UMD Theatre to Host Free, Virtual Performance of “Love and Information”

"Love and Information" Will Begin Streaming LIVE on YouTube Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021

DULUTH, Minn. – In March of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic sidelined LIVE performance put on by UMD Theatre. Now for the first time this year, the theatre will host a free, virtual performance of “Love and Information” starting Thursday, Feb. 11. The performance will take place via live stream on Feb. 11, 12, 13 & 14 at 7:30 p.m. The…

Morning Update 2-8-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, Feb. 8, 2021

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

Bayfield Businesses Report Steady Sales as Pandemic Continues

From Lodging to Entertainment, Many Businesses in Bayfield Say Sales Have Remained Stable as the Pandemic Continues

BAYFIELD, Wis. – Nearly one year into the global pandemic and travel is still frowned upon by many health officials. However, there is one silver lining when it comes to folks avoiding longer vacations. Local businesses in Northland communities are seeing an increase in people taking smaller weekend getaways to escape for a few days. “Outdoor rec is the name…

Cloquet Public Library Reopens For In-Person Visitors

The library is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Cloquet Public Library is back open for business. The library had closed down for the second time during the pandemic on November 19th to only offer curbside pickup. Although programs like Movie Nights have been cancelled, the library is facilitating educational projects like make-and-take crafts. Library staff hope that everyone can follow the proper guidelines. “Now…

Essentia Health Continues To See Lack Of Patients Going For A Check-Up

DULUTH, Minn- Essentia Health is continuing to see a lack of patients coming in for a check-up. They are instead waiting until it’s too late, which is creating an uptick in emergency room visits. Now that restrictions have loosened, Health experts believe many people may have become used to being home… or still do not want to visit a hospital…

Day Out With Thomas to Return to Duluth in August

According to the Railroad's Facebook page, Day out with Thomas is set for August 6-8 and 13-15. 

DULUTH, Minn. – The North Shore Scenic Railroad announced Thomas the Tank Engine will be returning to the Northland this summer. According to the Railroad’s Facebook page, Day Out with Thomas is set for August 6-8 and 13-15. Families can enjoy a ride with Thomas and his friend Percy, along with live music and other activities. Tickets are on-sale now,…

U Of M Medical School Sees Increase In Student Applications

This year there were nearly 3,500 applicants wanting to attend the school.

DULUTH, Minn. – More people are filling out applications to attend the University of Minnesota Medical School campuses including in Duluth. There are many factors that may play into the increase of applicants, but U of M Medical School officials say it is impressive knowing so many people are willing to dedicate to a career in healthcare. In a typical…

MN Power Crews Head To NY To Help With Power Outages

The Northland crew is expected to return in about two weeks.

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Power is helping battle power outages in New York, which were caused by the recent NorEaster that left behind about a foot of snow. On Thursday, a five-member crew loaded up and headed for the Big Apple to help restore power for hundreds of New York residents. Minnesota Power leadership says lending a hand is about…

State to Open Community Vaccination Site at DECC Next Week

DULUTH, Minn. – Starting Monday, the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center will be the host to a large-scale COVID-19 vaccination site. According to a Friday press release, it’s one of multiple permanent COVID-19 Community Vaccination Program sites being launched – there will also be one in Minneapolis. “Of the approximately 6,000 vaccines initially allotted to the CVP for adults 65 years…

Midday Update 2-5-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, Feb. 5, 2021

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

Essentia Cardiologist Talks Heart Attack, Stroke Prevention on Go Red for Women Day

Cardiologist Dr. Katie Benziger Explains Why We Go Red for Women on Friday, Feb. 5, 2021

DULUTH, Minn. – On the first Friday each February, American Heart Month, the nation rallies together to ignite a wave of red from coast to coast. Go Red for Women Day serves to raise awareness for heart attack and stroke among women. According to the American Heart Association, more women than men die from cardiovascular disease each year. It’s estimated…

Morning Update 2-5-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, Feb. 5, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, Feb. 5, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, News, ryan johnson

Laura MacArthur Elementary Receives P.E. Grant

The grant, worth over $1,000, allowed the school to purchase snowpup cross country skis from the local continental ski shop.

DULUTH, Minn. – Back in the fall, Laura MacArthur Elementary in Duluth received a grant allowing the school to purchase skis for their Phys Ed class. On Thursday morning, 20 second graders got the chance to take their brand new skis out for the first time. The grant, worth over $1,000, allowed the school to purchase snowpup cross country skis from…

End Of Year Tourism Taxes Made A Strong Turnaround

2020 ended with tourism in Duluth being down by about 30%.

DULUTH, Minn. – Tourism tax revenue in duluth took a hit over the past year as some bars, restaurants, and hotels were forced to close to protect public health during the pandemic, but Duluth’s estimated tourism tax drop ended up lower than expected. Based on trends shown throughout the pandemic, the City of Duluth projected a significant decrease in tourism…

Limited Vaccine Supply Creates Long Waitlist For Bayfield County Health Department

The limited supply of vaccines has left more than 2,500 people waiting to get vaccinated.

BAYFIELD, Wis.- Bayfield County has already begun the process to vaccinate residents 65 and older, which accounts for more than 25% of the county’s population. Last week, the county gave out more than 500 shots to that age group. County officials say with a staff of more than a dozen they have the manpower to do about 1,000 vaccinations per…

Itasca County Health Dept. Urges Patience, Caution as Vaccine Rollout Continues

Residents Will Be Notified When It's Their Turn to be Vaccinated

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – COVID vaccinations continue to roll out for residents in Itasca County. Public health officials say they are currently in the process of inoculating those working in schools and childcare facilities, as well as residents who are 65 and older. In the past seven days, 35 new cases of the virus have been confirmed in Itasca County….

Cold Front Activities Postponed Due to ‘Dangerously Cold’ Temps

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend’s Cold Front activities have been postponed due to forecasted dangerously cold weather. According to the National Weather Service, Duluth and surrounding areas are expected to reach dangerously cold wind chill values over the next several days and people are encouraged to stay inside this weekend. The Yeti Hunt has been rescheduled for Saturday, February 13…

Midday Update 2-4-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Feb. 4, 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

Northland Newborns 2-4-21

FOX 21 and Essentia Health Team Up to Showcase Newborn Bundles of Joy Across the Northland

Every Thursday morning on FOX 21 Local News from 7 – 9 a.m., we’re teaming up with Essentia Health to showcase Northland Newborns. Calling all proud parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles! Email a picture and date of birth to fox21morningcrew@kqdsfox21.tv for a chance to see your little one on the big screen. Click here for more information.  Categories: Community, Northland…

‘The Minnesota Marshmallow’ Maker Shares Secret S’more Brownie Recipe

Cooking Connection: Meet the Maker Behind 'The Minnesota Marshmallow,' Amy McMillan

DULUTH, Minn. – This week’s Cooking Connection caters to those with a mega sweet tooth! Duluth resident Amy McMillan had the idea of starting her own side business in the summer of 2020. Fast forward to today, and The Minnesota Marshmallow has taken off. McMillan says business is booming, and demand is high for these not-so-average mallows. She has created…

Morning Update 2-4-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021

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

St. Louis County Public Health Debuts Mobile Covid-19 Testing Trailers

"We are trying to come to people and come to the community to make it as accessible as possible," said Susan Vitulli, a public health educator for St. Louis County.

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Louis County Public Health is making it easier for many Northlanders to have access to COVID-19 testing. The county purchased two mobile COVID-19 test trailers for more than $200,000 The money used to buy these units came as part of CARES act funding awarded to the county. “We’re excited to offer more community testing opportunities throughout…

Public Health Officials Say Avoid Large Gatherings For Super Bowl Weekend

Health professionals say it is best to only gather with people only in your household.

DULUTH, Minn. -St. Louis County Public Health is reminding people to limit the number of people they choose to celebrate with during Super Bowl weekend Minnesota is still under the Governor’s orders to avoid large gatherings. Smaller gatherings are still a concern for many health professionals. They say it is best to only gather with people only in your household….

Midday Update 2-3-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2021

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

Essentia Health to Move Vaccine Clinic to Miller Hill Mall

(courtesy: Essentia Health) DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health announced they will be moving its COVID-19 vaccination clinic to the Miller Hill Mall this week. The hospital says vaccinations will be administered by appointment only at the new location beginning Friday. The clinic’s new location will be inside the former Dress Barn space, across from Maurices. Clinic hours will be 7…

Prepping Your Pet for Cold Artic Air Slated to Arrive This Weekend

A Local Veterinarian from Superior Animal Hospital Reminds Pet Owners to Protect Their Four-Legged Friends this Winter

SUPERIOR, Wis. – With high temperatures only forecasted to be hitting the single digits below zero this weekend, it’s important to remember your pets aren’t immune when it comes to battling the bitter cold. Dr. Matthew Severs with Superior Animal Hospital says pets are vulnerable to many of the same dangers humans are when the temps dip below zero. Your…

Morning Update 2-3-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2021

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

Erin Letzring Wins Her First Beargrease Marathon, First Female Champion in 23 Years

Letzring beats previous champ Ryan Redington by just 7 seconds at the finish.

DULUTH, Minn.- After an epic finish-line battle Tuesday evening, the winner of the 37th Annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon was first-time marathon musher Erin Letzring, beating out previous champ Ryan Redington by seconds in the final stretch. “Doing good. We’re all tired and could use a drink of water, but we’re all doing good,” said Letzring, panting with exhaustion…

More Snow Sculptures Coming to Lincoln Park

Each sculpture takes roughly two days to complete.

DULUTH, Minn. – Several snow sculptures in the Lincoln Park craft district have recently been completed and more are on the way. Three more sculptures will appear on Superior Street in Lincoln Park after the idea to bring more joy to the area had been brewing for over a year. Now, it snowballed, bringing artists Minnesota and the Twin ports…

Pandemic Prompting More People to Hit the Slopes at Lutsen Mountains

With Safety Precautions in Place, Staff at Lutsen Mountains is Ready to Welcome Visitors to the Slopes

LUTSEN, Minn. – It’s known as cabin fever, and this year, we may find ourselves letting it sink in earlier due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many winter weather enthusiasts are embracing current restrictions and taking a trip up the North Shore. “If you would like an action-packed, nature-filled, beautiful landscape ski resort, come to Lutsen Mountains,” exclaimed Rhylee Octavion,…

Many People Are Still Hesitant To Take Vaccine

DULUTH, Minn. – More COVID-19 vaccines are going into the arms of people across the country, but there are still some folks feeling hesitant about getting the shot. Experts say many people may be skeptical about its effectiveness due to how quickly it was created. The hesitation may also be because the vaccine is highly politicized and the continuous sharing…

Health Expert Say Take Pain Relievers After Getting Your Vaccine Instead Of Before To Help With Side Effects

DULUTH, Minn. – There has been a lot of debate about taking painkillers to treat side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine. Health experts say it is safe to take a pain reliever to help relieve the side effects of the vaccine, but when it should be taken is an issue many vaccine recipients are still unclear about. Many people have…