Community Archives - Page 20 of 298

Former Central HS Site to become $500 Million Housing Development

The groundbreaking of 'Incline Village' comes 13 years after the school's controversial closure, and a period of vacancy

December 10, 2024

Matt McConico,

DULUTH, Minn. – After sitting largely dormant for years, the wheels have begun turning on a development plan for the former Central High School site. Incline Village’s groundbreaking, today, at the former site of Central High School marks the beginning of the second-largest private development in the city’s history. Developers and city officials gathered at the site today to mark…

Sax Zim Bog Draws in Diverse Crowd

December 10, 2024

Emily Halling, Adam Jagunich,

MEADOWLANDS, Minn.– When the temps drop in northern Minnesota, most of the time, you can expect people to stay inside where it’s nice and warm. But the bog is a different story, as it draws quite the crowd during the winter months. “It’s really fun, and we definitely get a lot of global attention from folks coming in. Last year,…

Outdoor North Opens in Superior

December 10, 2024

Emily Halling,

SUPERIOR, Wis.– Superior has welcomed a new one stop shop that caters to all things outdoors. And the staff is eager to spread the love for these hobbies. From the time Erik Howard was three years old he was involved with all things skiing. His mission is to spread that love to Superior and get people more involved with outdoor…

KYN: Cloquet Writer Embarks on a 6 Month Journey

December 10, 2024

Emily Halling, Adam Jagunich,

DULUTH, Minn.– An ambition to travel the world, is something Cloquet writer Jess Waldbillig has felt for years. And just recently, she finally made it happen. “I think like a lot of people who got into the van life thing, I became kind of obsessed with it during college and during quarantine. And so, I like followed a ton of…

City Council Approves $3.6 Million Tourism Marketing Contract to Arizona Firm

Expressing uniform frustration with the selection process and lack of information, councilors still vote 8-1 to approve the multi-million-dollar contract

December 9, 2024

Matt McConico,

CITY HALL – Duluth City Councilors approve a $3.6 million tourism marketing contract to Arizona-based Madden Media, in an 8 to 1 vote at Monday’s meeting. Councilors made it known that they felt their “hands are tied” before voting on Duluth’s 2-year tourism marketing contract. Arizona-based Madden Media was the winner of the city’s request for proposal process earlier this…

‘Trains and Toddlers’ Program Returns to Lake Superior Railroad Museum

December 9, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– The Lake Superior Railroad Museum is bringing back its ‘trains and toddlers’ program after it was derailed by COVID. The program at the Depot is all about getting youngsters up close and person with all types of trains. The fun begins with story time in the Zelda Theater followed by arts and crafts. Organizers say it’s a perfect…

Duluth Angel Of Hope Vigil Helps Parents Of Deceased Children Grieve

December 8, 2024

Matt McConico,

DULUTH, Minn. – Parents who have lost children gathered together by candle light in Duluth Friday evening. Duluth’s Angel of Hope statue in Leif Erickson Park is one of more than 100 identical statues that echo back to a book called “The Christmas Box.” In the book, an elderly woman visits her young daughter’s grave, adorned with an Angel Statue….

A1 Movers Collecting Donations for “Fill the Truck” Food Drive

December 6, 2024

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. — This holiday season A1 Movers is collecting food donations for its 13th annual “Fill the Truck” Food Drive. At Super One locations across the Twin Ports, shoppers can purchase pre-made donation bags filled with food for $5 to $10. A1 Movers will then store and give all the food to Salvation Army and Second Harvest Food Bank….

Volunteers Prepare for Hmong New Year Celebration

December 6, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– The annual Hmong New Year is right around the corner and volunteers are rolling out 800 egg rolls and purple rice for this celebration. Every year, the Northland has the opportunity to experience the Hmong New Year celebration. The event is described as a reunion, regulars will often return every year to experience the gathering. The Hmong…

Finishing Touches on the 8th Annual Winter Village at the DECC

December 6, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the DECC, as they prepare for their 8th annual winter village weekend. Taking inspiration from European winter villages the DECC is excited to bring this back for another year. This year, they’re introducing their tinsel tavern, where you can immerse yourself in a Christmas wonderland. In addition, they’re featuring…

New $16.5M Snowmaking Operation At Giants Ridge

December 6, 2024

KQDS Staff,

BIWABIK, Minn. — 74 new automated snow machines are now operating at Giants Ridge in Biwabik as part of a $16.5-million dollar investment there. A small ceremony was held on Thursday, Dec. 5, to celebrate. The new snow-making system is weather controlled turning on and off automatically for optimal snow production based on optimal air conditions. The 74 new snow…

Councilors’ Hands Tied in Tourism Agency Decision

December 5, 2024

Matt McConico,

DULUTH, Minn. – Despite an angry public, councilors will need to certify the city’s decision of tourism marketing firm or possibly face legal repercussions. At tonight’s committee of the whole meeting, council members heard from representatives of Madden Media, the Tuscon-based firm that is likely to secure the city’s tourism marketing contract. Madden Media came out on top of about…

Duluth Fire Foundation Fundraises for K9 Unit

December 5, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– The Duluth Fire Foundation is putting a spotlight on 20 Duluth Firefighters and their dogs. They’re selling calendars to go towards one very good boy. K9 Jack is the only dog in the state trained to detect flammable liquids that are involved in arson cases. He has worked with the Duluth Fire Department since April. Unlike police dogs, Jack…

Community Rallies Behind Couple Who Lost Longtime Home To Fire

December 4, 2024

Paige Hansen,

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Community members are rallying behind an elderly couple who lost their home after fire ripped through it Sunday night. The fire broke out just before 9 p.m. Sunday on the 4900 block of Finn Road in the Town of Superior. Sonny and Jeanne Atkinson are both in their 80s and were sleeping at the time. The couple,…

Head of the Lakes United Way’s Winter Day of Caring

December 4, 2024

Emily Halling,

SUPERIOR Wis.– On Wednesday, hundreds of volunteers helped at 15 nonprofits across the Northland. To help celebrate Head of the Lakes United Ways Winter Day of Caring. One of those places is the Superior Douglas County YMCA. Volunteers were tasked with writing over 100 thank you letters to members of the YMCA, that helps things run smoothly. The fitness center…

Holiday Light Display Safety Tips

December 4, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– According to the National Fire Protection Association, December is the leading month of house fires. And the Duluth Fire Marshal is urging homeowners to decorate with caution. Whether you’re stringing lights outside, or putting up the tree, remembering fire safety is crucial. Preventing these fires is all about making sure your displays are not outdated and set up…

CHUM in Need of Winter Clothes

December 4, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– The temps are getting cooler and organizations like CHUM needs help keeping families who use their shelter stay warm. With winter on the brink, more and more people are accessing the shelter. And with that, the demand for winter clothes is going up. CHUM specifically needs gloves to help avoid frost bite. Another thing they’re looking for, is…

Kmart Lot Still at Top of Spirit Valley Concerns

The lot has been empty since 2018, creating an eyesore, and hole in the community

December 3, 2024

Matt McConico,

DULUTH, Minn. – A meeting meant to generate ideas from the public, becomes joint calls to address vacant Kmart lot. The Spirt Valley Core Investment Plan held its first community meeting at City Center West Tuesday evening. City planners hoped that small group activities amongst residents would generate ideas and feedback, as to what those living in the area would…

Photos Of Your Christmas Trees, Decorations

December 3, 2024

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. — Thank you to our FOX 21 viewers for sending in pictures of your Christmas trees and decorations Tuesday night. Below are two segments that aired during the 9 p.m. news. Enjoy! Section 1: Section 2: Categories: Community, Entertainment, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News, Wisconsin

‘Tinsel Tavern’ to Shine at Duluth Winter Village

December 3, 2024

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. — This year’s Duluth Winter Village at the DECC is expanding to include a Tinsel Tavern. The tavern includes 1,000 feet of tinsel, 600 feet of wrapping paper and 36 strings of lights. As for the tavern, Vikre Distillery will be creating holiday cocktails and mocktails, like a Gingerbread Old Fashion. The Winter Village is Saturday and Sunday…

Experts Stress Caution On Lake Ice

December 3, 2024

Emily Halling,

Duluth, Minn.– As the temps go down, the anticipation for ice fishing goes up. It’s super important to get your essentials like ice picks and floatation suits. But of course, keeping safety in mind is crucial for this sport. Every year, it’s as important as ever to brush up on ice safety. Timing out your first trip is essential. A…

Duluth Salvation Army Needs Bell Ringers

December 3, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– With the holidays in full swing it’s as important as ever to remember to help make sure everyone has the holiday they deserve. There are a couple factors for this year’s holiday season that is making things difficult for the salvation army. The cost of living going up is a large reason. They are also dealing with bell…

KYN: New Vintage Clothing Store Joins Lakeside Neighborhood

December 3, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– A dream come true, to breathe new life into older clothes, has finally come true for a trio of friends. “Vintage clothing is awesome, because there is so much of it out there. And I really like the treasure hunt, kind of. I love learning, it’s such a cool snapshot into history,” said Caleb Swanson, one of the…

Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

December 2, 2024

Matt McConico,

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Local law enforcement and fire departments battle it out for a good cause. Badges on both sides of the bridge are engaged in a popularity contest, as part of the Red Cross’s latest blood drive. As people came to donate blood today at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, in Superior, they were able to cast their vote for either…

Duluth Pack Participates in Cyber Monday

December 2, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– After a busy weekend of Black Friday shopping, the fun isn’t done yet. Many locally owned stores, such as Duluth pack, is honing on cyber Monday deals for shoppers staying at home. They specialize in their backpacks, and other bags. As well as gear for camping, and other outdoor activities. Making sure to include to customers who can’t…

4th Annual Holiday Decor Sale at Boulder Lake ELC

December 2, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– Boulder Lake is also taking advantage of holiday sales by using materials on their property. For 4 years now, Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center has sold homemade wreathes, porch pots, and even kits to make your very own wreath. This is the largest fundraiser for that Boulder Lake hosts every year. They use freshly harvested material to create…

Cloquet Writer Travels Cross Country

December 2, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– One Cloquet writer, decided one day to take the adventure of a lifetime and travel cross country living in a van for six months. Filled with ambition and excitement, Jess Waldbillig hit the road and traveled the west coast for six months. All while living out of her converted van. She drove over 13,500 miles, and checked out…

Family Trying to Rebuild After Suspected Arsons Destroy Everything

A GoFundMe page has been set up for a family who lost their home in suspected Sawyer County arsons

November 30, 2024

Alex Evans,

DULUTH, Minn. – State and local officials continue to investigate a string of suspected arsons that is now up to six, while one family tries to rebuild. Rick and Jean Clark’s home in southwest Sawyer County was one of the first in a string of recent fires in the area, that authorities suspect are the results of arson. Their home,…

19th Annual Gobble Gallop

November 29, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– For 19 years Duluth Running Company has put on the Gobble Gallop. And this year, they had quite the turn out! Over 1,700 runners took on the annual Thanksgiving run. This is the largest turn out they’ve had since 2019. The younger runners participated in the Gobble Giddy up kids run, There was also the Tough Turkey 1…

Bong Center Gives Thanks for Veterans

With crowds growing over the years, the meal continues to bring servicemembers together

November 28, 2024

Matt McConico,

SUPERIOR, Wisc. -The Bong Historical Center gives thanks to veterans with a 7th year of Thanksgiving meals. From 30 to a few hundred; the Richard I Bong Center in Superior has grown their annual Thanksgiving meal with each year. With more attendees, the center gained support in feeding the larger crowds from local businesses like the Manitou Inn, and local…

American Red Cross Partners with First Responders on Battle of the Badges Blood Drives

November 28, 2024

KQDS Staff,

DULUTH, Minn. — The American Red Cross is partnering with first responders to help make a difference for those in need of life-saving blood. It’s called the Battle of the Badges blood drive. It is a 2-day event where Duluth and Superior Police and Fire and the St. Louis and Douglas County Sheriff’s Departments will be taking part. It’s all…

The DECC Preps for Thanksgiving

November 28, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– With Thanksgiving being a day away, volunteers at the DECC is wasting no time with getting their meals squared away. After planning all year, the 1,540 Thanksgiving meals are being boxed up. They have quite the crew helping out this year, even booking out volunteer slots. The DECC has been feeding the Northland for 35 years. “We have…

Street into Morgan Park Still Closed After CN Rail Bridge Concerns

The road has been closed for nearly two months, after the CN bridge running over it was found to have "advanced deterioration"

November 27, 2024

Matt McConico,

DULUTH, Minn. – One of the only roads into the Morgan Park Neighborhood remains closed after a Canadian National-owned rail bridge was shut down due to “advanced deterioration” nearly two months ago. On October 4, city officials announced that an annual inspection of a CN-owned rail bridge of Idaho Street in West Duluth found “advanced deterioration” that made travel over…

CASDA Launches ‘Give the Gift of Healing’ Silent Auction

November 27, 2024

Emily Halling,

SUPERIOR, Wis.– In Superior, there’s an opportunity to help victims and survivors of abuse though the “Give the Gift of Healing” fundraiser. The virtual silent auction goes live on Black Friday. CASDA is a clinic in Superior that helps victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. Funds raised through this event will help support the shelter’s operations as they…

Fr. John Petrich Recognized for Significant Service

November 27, 2024

Emily Halling, Adam Jagunich,

DULUTH, Minn. — For a career described as “behind the scenes work” Fr. John Petrich provided years of support as a chaplain for officers, and the public, after overcoming troubling events. “In the last 34 years, we can name off all of the major kind of catastrophe-things that have happened in the St. Louis County, and many of us were…

Chester Bowl Announces New Donation Match Opportunity For Chalet Renovations

November 27, 2024

KQDS Staff,

DULUTH, Minn. — Chester Bowl has announced a donation match opportunity to help with the expansion and renovation of their Chalet. It’s part of the campaign Growing Up Chester. An anonymous donor who is looking to inspire giving in others, will now through January 15, 2025, match up to $50,000. That gives Chester 50 days to raise $50,000 through community…

AFSCME Rally Food and Fund Drive

November 26, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– AFSCME union members collected food donations for Second Harvest Northland today outside Duluth city hall, while rallying for a fair contract with the city. AFSCME represents hundreds of City of Duluth employees. They have been calling for fair wages and better benefits and working conditions. Today’s rally came ahead of a meeting with city administration today. “You know…

Duluth Bridgeman’s Offering Thanksgiving Meals To-Go

November 26, 2024

KQDS Staff,

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Bridgeman’s is once again offering Thanksgiving meals to go. A meal includes fresh baked turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, roasted vegetables, a dinner roll, and dessert. All meals are fully cooked and ready to reheat at home. These meals are great for those who don’t have somewhere to go or just don’t feel like cooking a whole…

KYN: Foxes and Fireflies Bookstore Opens its Doors

November 26, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– For the first time in nearly two decades, a bookstore has finally made its way into Superior. “Everyone is so excited. They walk in, and they’re ‘Oh! Thank you for doing this, thank you! We’re so glad to have a bookstore in Superior! And most of them say, ‘Wow this is a great space. It’s so cozy!’” said…

Fundraiser Helps Local Musician Recovering From Extensive Surgeries

November 26, 2024

Ethan Battle,

DULUTH, Minn. — Clyde Iron Works was filled with the buzzing sounds of community this weekend. It was all for the Mula$ for Marv Fundraiser. Marv is a drummer known by the people of the Northland for his continued community engagement and now the gesture is being returned as Mula$ for Marv hopes to raise enough money to pay for…

CHUM Distributes Thanksgiving Boxes

November 25, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– For over a decade, CHUM has pitched in to help as many people as possible to make sure they have a Thanksgiving meal they deserve. For the season of giving, CHUM has prepared 100 Thanksgiving boxes filled with all of the essentials. There are favorites such as the turkey itself, stuffing, potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce and even…

Bentleyville Tour of Lights Opens for 21st Year

November 25, 2024

Ethan Battle,

DULUTH, Minn. — It’s that time of year again, Bentleyville Tour of Lights is back open for its 21st year. With parts both old and new they bring back the spirit of Christmas and the people of the Northland are excited to participate. “Just gets me in the spirit, you know, Christmas only comes once a year!” said Abby, a…

CAO: Arizona Firm’s Win For Duluth’s Tourism Marketing Is ‘Tremendously Fair’; Local Finalist Disagrees

In March, Mayor Roger Reinert said he believed Duluth talent was best to tell Duluth's story.

November 24, 2024

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Chief Administrative Officer David Montgomery talked publicly Sunday for the first time since the Star Tribune broke the news Friday that a committee he appointed had chosen an Arizona firm to handle Duluth’s next multi-million-dollar tourism marketing contract – something Mayor Roger Reinert said earlier in the year should be handled by Duluth talent. “We feel…

Superior Meats Processing Deer for 2024 Season

November 22, 2024

Emily Halling,

SUPERIOR, Wis.– After hunting is over, the question of what to do with your deer harvest often comes to mind. Superior Meats is excited to cater to the hunters and help them produce venison products. Some of those products, you wouldn’t initially expect. “Make it into whatever you’re looking for. Whether it be bratwurst, summer sausage, bacon. We do a…

Bentleyville Tour of Lights 2024 Season Starts Saturday

November 22, 2024

Emma Propp,

DULUTH, Minn. — We are just one day away from the start of a popular holiday attraction in the Twin Ports. Bentleyville Tour of Lights happening at Bayfront Festival Park begins Saturday night with Santa flying in by helicopter just before 5pm, and then fireworks from 5:30 to 5:45 p.m. This is the 21st year of the light extravaganza with…

2024 Holiday Craft and Vendor Event in Cloquet

November 22, 2024

Emma Propp,

CLOQUET, Minn. — Community members are all set up for the 2024 Holiday Craft and Vendor Event in Cloquet this weekend. The event starts Friday at 9 a.m. at the Cloquet Armory and Pinetree Plaza. Attendees will find handmade items, crafts, holiday gifts from local artisans, and food trucks. There will be free shuttle service between each location. The same…

Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce Reflects on 2024

November 21, 2024

Emily Halling,

HERMANTOWN, Minn.– The Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce recognized and celebrated volunteers, members, and efforts of this year. Around 200 members gathered at today’s celebration got an overall look to the 2024 year — the successes from businesses in Hermantown, Proctor, Duluth, and Rice Lake. There are now 300 Chamber of Commerce members. A slide show recognized all of the…

16th Annual Give to the Max Day

November 21, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– Today is Give to the Max Day, a day to highlight, and give it your all to local nonprofits. For 16 years now, Give to the Max Day has helped improve the quality of life of local communities. To make that happen, donations are made for Duluth nonprofits. Last year, Give to the Max raised 34.2 million dollars…

Update: Duluth Tourism Marketing Finalist Chosen; Name Announced Dec. 5

November 21, 2024

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. (Nov. 21) — The city of Duluth announced Thursday that a special selection committee has determined its finalist for Duluth’s next two-year tourism marketing contract. The top-scoring finalist will be announced at a committee of the whole meeting on Dec. 5 before the council makes a vote to deny or approve during the council meeting Dec. 9. The…

Superior Meats Prepping for Thanksgiving

November 20, 2024

Emily Halling,

DULUTH, Minn.– It’s getting down to crunch time when it comes to getting ready for Thanksgiving, and Superior Meats is getting ready for the big day. Thanksgiving will be here before you know it, and staying on top of your turkey plan is key for a happier, stress-free holiday. Superior Meats will be rolling out the fresh turkeys on Thursday…