Community

Morning Update 7-24-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, July 24, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a look at local news and weather making headlines Friday, July 24, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Duluth Mayor, Police Chief Talk ‘Defund the Police’ Movement

Mayor Emily Larson and Police Chief Mike Tusken believe the Duluth Police Department is a leader with its holistic approach to policing.

DULUTH, Minn. – As discussions about defunding and reforming police continue to evolve at the state and national level, Duluth Mayor Emily Larson and Police Chief Mike Tusken are giving us their insight on the issue. And you might be surprised to hear, much of the change being asked of law enforcement across the country has already been in place…

Another 1,000 Person Increase In Covid-19 Cases Hits Wisconsin For Second Day In A Row

About one-third of cases are impacting people in their 20's.

WISCONSIN – For a second day in a row more than 1,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Wisconsin. This brings the state’s total number of positive cases to nearly 46,000. About one-third of those are impacting people in their 20’s. Health officials say the increase in cases is a reflection of more people attending gatherings like parties and…

Art Gallery Does Virtual Showcase

DULUTH, Minn. – The pandemic has been preventing many people from visiting local art galleries. The Joseph Nease gallery in Duluth is taking a new approach to showcasing artwork by going virtual. Art currently displayed at the gallery was supposed to debut to the public in March, but the pandemic struck the northland. All of the pieces were created by…

NAACP Gives Away More Free Masks After Statewide Mandate Announced

Organization gives away around 300 masks every week in the Twin Ports area

DULUTH, Minn. – The need for masks is even higher after the state of Minnesota and some Wisconsin cities like Superior have started requiring masks in indoor public places. The Duluth branch NAACP has been giving away free masks to the community since April, helping Northlanders protect themselves and others from the coronavirus. On Thursday, the organization was outside the…

Itasca County Officials Provide Update on COVID-19, Senior Living Facilities

Cases of COVID-19 Continue to Climb in Itasca County

ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. – Officials say coordination has been key to successful COVID-19 response strategies inside long term care facilities in Itasca County. Health professionals and management from many of the senior care facilities in the county provided an update Thursday morning on response efforts. Management from The Emeralds at Grand Rapids report they haven’t had any new cases of…

Lake Superior Art Glass Hosts Marble Scavenger Hunt

This is the first time Lake Superior Art Glass has put on the scavenger hunt.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s National Marble Day and in celebration, Lake Superior Art Glass hid 10 marbles around Canal Park for people to find. Making the marbles is a specialty of the owner, so their team took the opportunity to participate in the national day. Anyone who finds the marble can keep them. Management hopes this event boosts their business….

Midday Update 7-23-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, July 23, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, July 23, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Fresh Garden Bruschetta with Chef Arlene Coco

Cooking Connection: Garden Bruschetta

DULUTH, Minn. – Nothing represents the tastes of summer more than a fresh picked meal from the garden. In this week’s Cooking Connection, Chef Arlene Coco teaches FOX 21’s Brett Scott how to make a delicious, easily handcrafted garden bruschetta using fresh picked herbs and vegetables from a Duluth community garden. Garden Bruschetta Recipe Serving size: 6 Ingredients: 4 tablespoons…

Morning Update 7-23-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, July 23, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, July 23, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Duluth Hotel Industry Slowly Picking Up, Hoping to Reach Last Summer Numbers

According to Visit Duluth hotels citywide during the pandemic saw 15-20% of available rooms early at their lowest point.Ā 

DULUTH, Minn.- The largest hotel in Duluth, Holiday Inn and Suites on First Street Downtown says while business doesn’t look like last summer, it is picking up. The staff at Holiday Inn say occupancy is down 50%Ā  from what it was last summer. According to Visit Duluth hotels citywide during the pandemic saw 15-20% of available rooms early at their…

Live Music, Lake Shore Views Back for Wednesday Night at Glensheen

The weekly celebration is back through August at 250 person capacity.

DULUTH, Minn.- Wednesday nights are busy at Glensheen Mansion once again, as their “Wednesday Night at Glensheen” weekly celebrations are on now through August. Attendees can come for free and sit outside and enjoy some drinks and music every Wednesday night from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. This year only 250 people are allowed anywhere on the grounds at a…

Gov. Walz Says Mask Mandate Will Help Keep Businesses Open, Infection Rate Down

As of Saturday masks will be required in all indoor public spaces.

MINNESOTA- On Wednesday, Minnesota joined over two dozen other states in requiring masks to be worn in all indoor public places statewide. That new Executive Order by Governor Tim Walz goes into effect Saturday morning. You can find the full executive order here. “This is a small sacrifice for a potentially big gain,” Gov. Walz said. “The upside of the…

Little Mariners Child Care Center to Open in Silver Bay

Center aiming to open this fall in the William Kelley School

SILVER BAY, Minn. – A childcare shortage across much of the Northland has become even more urgent during this pandemic, especially in less populated towns. Now, a childcare center is expected to open in Silver Bay to help with the growing demand. Little Mariners Child Care Center is on course to open this fall. The center is expected to greatly…

Thrift Stores Are Becoming Another Resource For Back-To-School Shopping

Studies show parents across the country spend an average of about $700 per child during the back to school season.

DULUTH, Minn. – The school year is quickly approaching, and many parents may be facing some challenges as they work to get their kids prepared. Many are turning to thrift stores as the pandemic continues to create financial struggles. Studies show parents across the country spend an average of about $700 per child during the back to school season. Due…

It’s National Hot Dog Day

On average Americans eat more than 5 million hot dogs between Memorial Day to Labor Day.Ā 

CLOQUET, Minn. – If you want to relish in the joys of a good old fashion hot dog, here’s your chance because it’sĀ National Hot Dog Day. The holiday is celebrated every year to pay homage to the popular summer fan favorite. On average Americans eat more than 5 million hot dogs between Memorial Day to Labor Day. One of the…

Cloquet Mayor Reacts To Passing Of Mask Ordinance

CLOQUET, Minn. – Less than 24 hours before Governor Tim Walz made his announcement the Cloquet City Council approved an ordinance requiring residents to wear masks while at indoor businesses. Cloquet Mayor Roger Maki initially had some concerns the vote would fail. He says although the vote was not unanimous he is grateful for the councilors who changed their minds….

New Sanitizer Outlet Store Opens

With a soft opening, Owner Rick Lampton calls, the Clear-San Pro outlet store was unique business opportunity.

DULUTH, Minn. – What started as a pop-up shop in superior has now turned to a full-fledged business. With a soft opening, Owner Rick Lampton calls, the Clear-San Pro outlet store was unique business opportunity. “We were going to put the product in our establishments. Then we thought this might be an opportunity to sell some of it to the…

Midday Update 7-22-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 22, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 22, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, News, William Seay

Pet Food Donations Wanted for Dog, Cat Owners in Need

Donations Are Being Accepted at Petco in Duluth, and Dan's Feed Bin in Superior

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic is not only impacting humans but animals as well. Recently Duluthian Tina Marcella, founder of PJ’s Rescue, was approached by an anonymous donor who wanted to start a pet food collection drive to help animal owners in the Duluth region who may be having a financially difficult time due to the ongoing pandemic. Pet…

Morning Update 7-22-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 22, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 22, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Local News, morning update, News, William Seay

Minnesota State Fair Offering Drive-Thru Experience

The event will allow fair-goers to experience 16 vendors while also supporting the Great Minnesota Get-Together.

ST, PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota State Fair will host a State Fair Food Parade in late August and early September. The event will allow fair-goers to experience 16 vendors while also supporting the Great Minnesota Get-Together. Favorites like Pronto Pups and Sweet Martha’s Cookie Jar will be available. Tickets will go on sale Friday, July 31st. The parade will…

Northland Natives Formulate Healthy Boost with Boomerang Energy

Duluthians Donny and Will Pearson Wanted to Create a Healthier Alternative to Traditional Energy Drinks

DULUTH, Minn. – We’ve all been there – Long days at work making for sleepy afternoons waiting for the clock to strive five. Each year millions of energy drinks are sold in the United States. Now the Northland has a local option for those looking to sip on a healthier boost of energy. ā€œYou throw it out, it comes back,ā€…

Cloquet City Council Passes Mask Mandate; Votes to Take Effect August 1st

While some councilors supported the language of the ordinance, others thought enforcement would be an issue.

CLOQUET, Minn.- A mask mandate for indoor public places was passed by the Cloquet City Council Monday evening, taking effect August 1st. Unlike Duluth, the vote was not unanimous — the council, it seems, as divided as they said the community is on the issue. The Council passed the ordinance 5-2, the only change being making it effective August 1st….

Superior School District Approves Three Reopening Scenarios; Asks Parents to Submit Preferences

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior School District has approved their possible plan for how students will be taught this fall. The coming school year will either be all virtual, all in-person, or a hybrid of at-home and in-school learning. The district is still waiting to pick a final option. They say they hope to have a set plan in place by…

Construction Of Mixed-Use Space At Board Of Trade Building Nears Completion

The housing units are about 50% full.

DULUTH, Minn. – The transformation of the historic Board of Trade building in downtown Duluth is inching closer to completion. In October, construction crews began renovating the century-old building to turn it into the next mixed-used space in the city. The building will offer more than 80 mixed-income housing units and commercial space. Nearly 20%of those are affordable units. Each…

Red Flag Warning Issued for Dangerous Swimming Conditions on Park Point

DULUTH, Minn. – A red flag warning has been issued by the Duluth Fire Department due to dangerous swimming conditions on Park Point. The warning is in effect until 10:00 a.m. Wednesday. The warning means that wind and wave conditions can support rip currents, which are life-threatening to anyone entering the water. The fire department is telling swimmers to stay…

Midday Update 7-21-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, July 21, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, News, William Seay

Morning Update 7-21-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, July 21, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, News, William Seay

New Federally Funded Construction Projects at Duluth International Airport to Infuse $2 Million into Local Construction

Asphalt will be replaced on Taxiway A and the Commercial Service Apron will be expanded.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth International Airport announced two new construction plans that are fully funded by the federal CARES Act, which will infuse $2 million into the regional construction community. Starting this week, the top layer of asphalt will be replaced on Taxiway A, which officials said is necessary for safety. It is a short-term solution while they evaluate permanent…

Superior School Board Approves Response Plan for Reopening this Fall

Plan allows families to choose all-virtual, or hybrid of virtual and in-person learning.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- In their first in-person meeting since March, the Superior School Board Monday approved their COVID-19 District Response Plan on reopening schools this fall. In the plan (found here), families can choose whether to continue having their children learn virtually at home, or attend in a hybrid setting with partial education at home and partial in the school building….

Virginia Woman Makes Life-Sized Monopoly Game In Her Driveway

The giant copycat even has all that's needed to play including real-life game pieces like the iron and the wheelbarrow.

VIRGINIA, Minn. – Who doesn’t love a good game of Monopoly? One Virginia woman created a life-size version of the popular childhood game in her driveway. The colorful board painted on the driveway is a real duplicate of the original game. The giant copycat even has all that’s needed to play including real-life game pieces like the iron and the…

Mayor Larson Announces Members of Spirit Mountain Task Force

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Mayor Emily Larson announced on Monday that thirteen members have been selected for the Spirit Mountain Task Force. Last month, the city said they would be creating the Task Force to assist in drafting ” a set of recommendations intended to help achieve financial stability” for Spirit Mountain moving forward. The Task Force will be working…

Midday Update 7-20-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, July 20, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, July 20, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather, William Seay

St. Luke’s Oncologist Emphasizes Importance of Routine Screenings Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Coffee Conversation: Continuing Routine Medical Exams, Cancer Screenings Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – Routine medical exams and cancer screenings are taking a back burner for many people amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a worry for many in the medical community, as this could have negative impacts in the years to come. Dr. Roberto Fernandez, a St. Luke’s Oncologist, says it’s vital for patients to come in for routine cancer…

Morning Update 7-20-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, July 20, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, July 20, 2020. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, weather, William Seay

Live Music, Food Enjoyed While Social Distanced at Earth Rider Brewery

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Some people spent the warm Sunday outside listening to live music — socially distanced of course — at Earth Rider Brewery. At the outdoor space at Earth Rider’s Cedar Lounge, customers enjoyed a few drinks, some live music, and Thai-fusion cuisine from the “One Night in Bangkok” Food Truck. Staff at Earth Rider say they are happy their…

Some Cloquet Business Owners Ready for Mask Mandate Ahead of Council Vote Tuesday

While city officials' views on the ordinance are divided, these business owners say it's a good idea.

CLOQUET, Minn.- Coming up Tuesday two Northland cities, Cloquet and Superior, will vote on a mask mandate for indoor public places. In Cloquet, some business owners say it’s a good idea if it means continuing their operations as safely as possible. “I think it’s good for the community overall, just to keep the spread of the Coronavirus,” said Cindy Peterson,…

Pandemic Doesn’t Erase ‘Chalk.a.Lot’ Festival in Two Harbors

The festival continued this year, albeit downsized due to COVID-19.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- Artist hard at work could be spotted throughout Two Harbors Saturday, and their canvas — the sidewalks. The 9th Annual “Chalk.a.Lot” Festival carried on. “Everybody’s so excited to be here and they’re happy to be creating art,” said Carrie Coan, President of the Two Harbors Area Arts and Events Board. “This is our 9th year and everybody…

Owner of Twin Ports Bars, Restaurants Weighs in On Proposed Superior Mask Mandate

After abiding by the new ordinance at his Duluth locations, Rick Lampton says he expects adjusting at Grizzly's and 7 West in Superior to go smoothly.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- In just three days the Superior City Council will vote on whether to implement an indoor public mask mandate similar to Duluth. Now more bar and restaurant owners are speaking out on that proposed ordinance. Rick Lampton, owner of many establishments in both Duluth and Superior, including Grizzly’s and 7 West Taphouse, has already adjusted his businesses to…

Local Businesses Helps Community Prepare To Follow Duluth Mask Mandate

"I can hardly keep up. It's really busy. I am thinking about hiring somebody to help me out," said Jeaneth Deterling, owner of West Duluth Sewing and Design.

DULUTH, Minn. – This week the Duluth City Council passed an ordinance requiring masks in numerous indoor environments. Now some local businesses are using their services to help the community follow those rules. This new rule could be creating a need for face covering and even signage to be placed in area businesses explaining the requirement. To help people from…

Midday Update 7-17-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, July 17, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, July 17, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Morning Update 7-17-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, July 17, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, July 17, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, News, William Seay

Friends of the Lakewalk Receive Pollinator Plant Donation

DULUTH, Minn. – Friends of the Lakewalk have recently received a huge donation of pollinator plants. The organization has been active for about 12 years and it’sĀ geared towards preserving and improving the Lakewalk. The 750 perennials allow them to expand their pollinator plots. “So there throughout the length of the Lakewalk at various sites. That way the pollinator insects and…

Essentia Health Moves Mobile Testing Site To Old Sears Building At Miller Hill Mall

The testing site is open seven days a week.

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health in Duluth has moved its mobile COVID-19 testing site from West Duluth to the former Sears building at Miller Hill Mall. Hospital leaders say the mobile site has outgrown the area as testing volumes are increasing. With more people visiting the site, it caused traffic disruption for the West Duluth neighborhood, including drivers blocking a…

A Unanimous Vote For Mask Wearing In Cloquet Could Be a Longshot

Enforcement is one of the biggest issues which could cause the vote to fail.

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Cloquet City Council is expected to vote on Tuesday on a proposal that could force everyone to use face coverings while indoors. The possible new rule could be shot down as some council members do not agree with implementing the proposed ordinance. Duluth is the latest Northland community to move forward with a face covering requirement….