Features

Wrestle the Massive Rasputin Burrito on an Empty Stomach

Cooking Connection: Rasputin Burrito

DULUTH, Minn. – For this week’s Cooking Connection, we are back in the kitchen at Burrito Union. If you are tired of potatoes and turkey, but still have that Thanksgiving appetite, check out the Rasputin. It comes with nearly everything on the line and barely fits in their largest tortilla.  It is also large enough to share with a friend…

Cloquet Armory Prepares to Host November Craft & Vendor Sale

The November Craft & Vendor Show is Happening Nov. 19-20 in Cloquet

CLOQUET, Minn. – Nearly 80 local and regional vendors are preparing to take part in a show at the Cloquet Armory and Pine Tree Plaza at Super One. The Fall/Christmas Craft & Vendor Show is happening Friday, Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 20 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Organizers say it’s the perfect…

Northern Star: Jacob Shields

For this week's segment, we feature a grad transfer on the UMD men's basketball team hoping to make a lasting impact on and off the court.

DULUTH, Minn. – UMD men’s basketball graduate transfer Jacob Shields just loves everything about basketball. “This might be weird to people who don’t play basketball, but I just love the sound of the ball. Like coming down the court, I love the sound of the ball. I love the smell of the ball to be honest. And that might be…

Northland Thanksgiving Staple Returns at Burrito Union

Cooking Connection: Burrito Union Thanksgiving Burrito

DULUTH, Minn. – This week’s Cooking Connection takes Meteorologist Ken Slama to Burrito Union in Duluth where he gets an early taste of turkey with their Thanksgiving burrito. It comes with everything you would expect to see come dinner time on the 4th Thursday in November and it is all made in-house, including the turkey. Click here for more information…

Duluth Pack Hosting “Pups and Packs” Adoption Event

The Event is Happening Friday, Nov. 12

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Pack is eager to announce its upcoming event in partnership with Ruffwear and Northern Lakes Rescue for a ‘Pups and Packs’ dogs and puppies adoption at the legendary retail store location. On Friday, Nov. 12 from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m., Duluth Pack’s event will unite outdoor enthusiasts and dog lovers alike. The event is happening at…

Chester Bowl Skis, Suds, & Slices Fundraiser Happening This Week

The Virtual Auction Begins Wednesday, Nov. 10

DULUTH, Minn. – Chester Bowl is proud to present its annual Skis, Suds, & Slices fundraiser beginning Wednesday, Nov. 10, and wrapping up Friday, Nov. 12 at 8:30 p.m. “At Chester Bowl, we believe that every family should be able to learn to ski or snowboard and attend summer camp regardless of their family income,” said Dave Schaeffer, executive director…

Northern Star: Addy Ranta

For this week's segment, we feature a Superior cheerleader who has the chance to represent the Northland on the national stage as a member of the National Cheerleading Association All-American Team.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Cheerleading wasn’t the first choice for Superior senior cheerleader Addy Ranta. “I didn’t make the volleyball team so it all started because I didn’t make that and I said well I guess I can try cheer,” Ranta said. Ranta, who also has a background in dance, has now been cheering since the winter season her freshman season…

Warm Fall Weekend Perfect Chance for Many to Check Out Amnicon Falls

DULUTH, Minn.- Plenty of locals and out-of-towners took advantage of the warm fall weather to check out the sights and sounds of Amnicon Falls. FOX 21 Photojournalist Adam Jagunich takes us there. Categories: Environment, Features, News, News – Latest News, Weather in the News, Wisconsin Tags: Adam Jagunich, Amnicon Falls, Amnicon Falls State Park

Falling into Healthier Habits with ‘Oh So Smoothie’

Cooking Connection: Super Green Smoothie

DULUTH, Minn. – We’re making smoothies in this week’s Cooking Connection with ‘Oh So Smoothie.’ This time we are taking the healthier option as we head into the season full of sweets and treats. In addition to using all fresh ingredients, Katie uses her young children for taste testing. So, if you don’t trust Ken’s word on how the Super…

Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue Searching for More Foster Homes, Adopters

Based in the Twin Cities Metro Area, Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue Serves the Entire State

DULUTH, Minn. – Serving the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue has worked for years to pair stigmatized bully breeds with the right families after they’re moved from states such as Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia. Just last year, they helped rescue a record number of 200 pit bulls from life-threatening situations. On average, they help place over…

New Boutique Opens in Superior

The mother-daughter-run boutique also has home decor with weekly transitions as they gear up for the holidays.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — A new boutique is open in Superior. “We just want it to be kind of like an experience when you walk into the door,” Kindred Stone & Co Part Owner, Jami Konkler says. Kindred Stone and Co first opened their doors in early October. “Whether you’re here for a gift or clothing for yourself or somebody else….

Northern Star: Caitlin Schneeweis and Ashley Larson

For this week's segment, we feature two hitters who are cousins playing their first season together on the St. Scholastica volleyball team.

DULUTH, Minn. – Family is the most important thing for St. Scholastica volleyball players Ashley Larson and Caitlin Schneeweis. “We call ourselves a big commune. We’re just one big family. Everyone’s invited, even if they come into the family,” Larson, a right side for the Saints, said. The cousins have been playing volleyball together since the sixth grade and went…

Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue Looking for More Fosters, Adopters

Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue Looks to Break Down the Stigma Surrounding 'Bully Breeds'

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’re looking to make a big impact in the lives of animals this month, look no further. October serves as Pit Bull Awareness Month. It’s a time when activists and rescue operations spread the word of positivity. Twin Cities-based Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue serves the entire state with a mission of taking rescued pit bulls in…

Local Mother Brings Nutritional Smoothie Options to Duluth

Cooking Connection: Banana Bread Smoothie with 'Oh So Smoothie'

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Cooking Connection, Meteorologist Ken Slama meets up with Katie Dague of ‘Oh So Smoothie’ to see what smoothie creations she has to offer. Stepping away from more traditional smoothies, Katie combines fresh ingredients to whip up a banana bread smoothie. If you like banana bread, then you will find this smoothie to be delicious,…

New Gift Shop Moves into Former Lake County Chronicle Building

Fuzzly's Gifts Opened on Sept. 1 of 2021

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – “It’s a great feeling to see the accomplishment. We did all of the work ourselves,” said April Whitt, owner of Fuzzly’s Gifts. The past year and a half have been a whirlwind for Whitt and her husband Mark. “We decided that the purchase of the building was meant to be, and there was a reason behind it,…

New This Year: Nominations for ‘Best Christmas Ever’ Due by Monday, Nov. 1

More Than 150 Families will be Chosen to Receive the 'Best Christmas Ever' in 2021

DULUTH, Minn. – The clock is ticking! Nominations for this year’s Best Christmas Ever are coming to a close. Northlanders have until Monday, Nov. 1 to nominate a family in need this holiday season. Don Liimatainen, founder of Best Christmas Ever, says the organization plans to surpass its goal of helping more than 150 families this year. Each year from…

Northern Star: TJ Chiabotti

For this week's segment, we feature a North Woods running back who recently became the 19th player in Minnesota High School football history to rush for over 5,000 career years.

COOK, Minn. – North Woods running back TJ Chiabotti has always loved the game of football. “I like running it and hitting people,” Chiabotti said. And he’s been making his mark on the North Woods football team long before this record breaking season. “He’s been the guy for a very, very long time for us. Starting almost in sixth grade…

October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

Humane Society of Douglas County is Seeing an Increase in Dog Adoptions

SUPERIOR, Wis. – October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by bringing home a furry friend from your local shelter. The Humane Society of Douglas County is seeing more dogs come into the shelter this month, providing potential adopters with a variety of furry friends to choose from. Click here to see…

Legacy of F and D Meats Continues Under New Ownership

The Previous Owners Left the Business in December of 2020

VIRGINIA, Minn. – After nearly 50 years in business, it can be difficult and nerve-wracking for new ownership to take over a strongly rooted establishment. “I just wanted to keep my shoulder behind the wheel and my toes out of the way,” said Joseph Walls, co-owner of F and D Meats in Virginia. Whether you’re a local, or just passing…

All Aboard! The Great Pumpkin Train Returns MEA Weekend

The Great Pumpkin Train Runs Along the North Shore Scenic Railroad Oct. 21 - 24

DULUTH, Minn. – The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth is thrilled to be bringing back the annual Pumpkin Train Express Oct. 21 – 24. Each passenger will have the chance to pick out their own pumpkin to take with them. The train ride is about 90 minutes total. Passengers will return to the Duluth Depot where you can stay…

Northern Star: Alexie Pryd

For this week's segment, we feature a UW-Superior outside hitter who's making a name for herself in her first full season with the Yellowjackets.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Growing up in the Twin Cities, Alexie Pryd decided she wanted to go far away for college. But after a year at Division II’s Wingate University in North Carolina, Pryd decided to return home. “I’m such a homebody. When I first went to school in North Carolina, I totally was homesick. The girls were great, the coach…

Spooktacular Halloween Treats with The Sweet Exchange

Halloween is on Sunday, October 31 -- Get Your Treats Today!

DULUTH, Minn. – We are talking Halloween deserts in this week’s Cooking Connection with Lisa Quarles from Sweet Exchange. She has plenty of decorating ideas for getting those cupcakes ready by the end of October. You can also have them made for you knowing they will be fun and delicious. Quarles asks customers to place orders at least 48-72 hours…

Animal Allies to Host Virtual ‘Fur Ball Fundraiser’ Beginning Friday

Animal Allies Virtual Fur Ball Fundraiser is Happening Oct. 15 - 17

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies Humane Society is preparing to host a virtual fundraiser with the goal of raising more than $100,000 to help support their mission of finding pets new homes in the Northland. The virtual ‘Fur Ball Fundraiser’ will begin with an auction kicking off at 12 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15. The auction will end on Sunday, Oct….

Vino with a View: Inside Lutsen’s North Shore Winery

North Shore Winery and Sawtooth Mountain Cider House Opened Back in 2016

LUTSEN, Minn. – When it comes to the birthplace of a good chardonnay or merlot, chances are Minnesota doesn’t come to mind. One business located in Lutsen, however, is looking to change that perception. “Just trying new things is very important. You don’t know what you like until you try it,” said Jayden Corliss, general manager at North Shore Winery….

Northland Native Releasing New Book After Battle With Breast Cancer

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

DULUTH, Minn. – One Northland woman is using this Breast Cancer Awareness Month to reach out to others and share her story of survival, healing, and learning. In 2015, Natalie Zeleznikar was 48 when she was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. She’s now 55 and continues to heal mentally, physically, and spiritually. “I had no breast cancer in my…

Northern Star: The Turnbull Triplets

For this week's Northern Star, meet a trio of Cloquet football players who have literally been together since they were in the womb.

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’ve been to a Cloquet football, there’s a good chance you’ve heard the name “Turnbull”. If you listen to the starting lineups, you’ll hear it called three times for Reese, Alec and Will. “They’ve been certainly the base of any team that they’ve been on, in the youth level, and then in the middle school, and…

Taste the Flavors of Fall with The Sweet Exchange

Cooking Connection: Mega Cupcakes, Caramel Apple, Turtle Cheesecake with The Sweet Exchange

DULUTH, Minn. – This week’s Cooking Connection has Meteoroloist Ken Slama trying his best to become a professional cake decorator. Lisa Quarles, the owner of The Sweet Exchange, shows off recipes for her mega cupcakes, caramel apple pie, and turtle cheesecakes. Quarles asks customers to place orders at least 48-72 hours in advance. She can be reached at (218) 310-2412…

Pet Oxygen Mask Helps Save the Life of 3-Year-Old Ozzy the Pug

The Duluth Fire Department First Started Receiving Pet Oxygen Masks in 2014

DULUTH, Minn. – Pets in distress. It often happens when a fire breaks out, or during traffic emergencies. Now thanks to a partnership between the Duluth Fire Department and Duluth Veterinary Hospital, local first responders are better equipped to handle our four-legged friends. “I treat them like my kids,” said Coralie Anderson, owner of 3-year-old Ozzy the Pug. It’s a…

Optimism on the Iron Range as New Event & Convention Center Opens

The New Iron Trail Motors Event & Convention Center is a Project 20 Years in the Making

VIRGINIA, Minn. – A massive project 20 years in the making is now a reality, and standing tall in the City of Virginia. Now the City of Virginia Parks and Rec Department is proud to bring people inside the new Iron Trail Motors Event and Convention Center. “This is a game-changing facility for the entire Iron Range,” said Brian Silber,…

Split Rock Lighthouse to Host Historic Tours by Lantern Light

Tours will Begin Saturday, October 9 at 6 p.m.

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – The history of Split Rock Lighthouse is set to come alive by the light of lantern this Saturday, Oct. 9. Visitors will be guided to various first-person interpretations of important people throughout Split Rock Lighthouse’s story. With tales of daring survival and perspectives that range for decades, six figures of Split Rock’s history share some of…

Northern Star: Blake Perry

For this weeks segment, we highlight the record-breaking accomplishments of one senior on the UWS Men's Soccer team.

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The sky is the limit for senior Blake Perry of the UWS men’s soccer team as he continues to raise the standards for the yellowjackets. “The boys all love him, there’s no question who they’re trying to follow, he just sets a great example,” Joe Mooney, the UWS Head Coach said. He sets records too, on Friday,…

Taste Bud Tour with New Duluth-Based Charcuterie Board Business

Cooking Connection: Unique Cheese Combo Charcuterie Board with 'Yes, Cheese'

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Cooking Connection, Meteorologist Ken Slama helps assemble a unique charcuterie board filled with assorted Wisconsin cheeses with ‘Yes, Cheese.’ Get your taste buds ready because it’s sure to include a variety of cheese that is new and delicious to you! Click here for more information.   Categories: Cooking Connection, Entertainment Tags: Business, Charcuterie Board,…

Mini Goats Take Over the Campus of UW-Superior

Duluth Goat Yoga Provided a Fun, Entertaining Way for Over 50 Students to Relax and Unwind

SUPERIOR, Wis., – Over a dozen goats took over the campus of UW-Superior Tuesday afternoon. With in-person events returning to campus this fall, Student Involvement booked a session for 50 students to sign up and experience Duluth Goat Yoga. The company was founded back in 2018, and is clearly a hit! Organizers say students were lining up an hour before…

New Iron Range Coffee Shop Helping to Support Mental Health Wellness

Loonies Coffee Shop is Donating 10 Percent of Profits to Mental Health Wellness

VIRGINIA, Minn. – As we head into the colder months, a cup of coffee is wonderful at any time of the day. When you pair it with compassion and empathy, the customers just keep coming back. “The coffee’s good, but the pizza is even better,” said Aaron Bialke, a customer from Grand Rapids. It’s hard to pinpoint a favorite part…

Visit Cook County Promotes ‘Art Along the Lake: Fall Studio Tour’ as Colors Begin to Pop

According to the Minnesota DNR, Fall Foliage in Parts of Cook County is 75 - 100 Percent Changed as of Monday, Sept. 27

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – Happening now through Sunday, Oct. 3, the ‘Art Along the Lake: Fall Studio Tour’ is taking place throughout Cook County. The event features over 20 local artists who open up their private home studios to the public. Organizers say this is a rare opportunity to view new and upcoming works as well as the residential areas…

Northern Star: John Schwinghamer

For this week's segment, we feature a St. Scholastica runner and skier who spent this past summer in Jackson, Wyoming helping fight wildfires.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s been quite the year for St. Scholastica senior John Schwinghamer. He qualified for the NCAA Skiing championships, then was All-UMAC in outdoor track and field in just his second season with the Saints. “I like how they all work together, they’re all endurance sports. I love to run but I’m better at skiing but I still…

New Charcuterie Board Business Now Open in Duluth

Cooking Connection: Bloody Mary Charcuterie Board

DULUTH, Minn. – Can you say Yes, Cheese? The owners and creators of Duluth’s very own charcuterie board business can! In this week’s Cooking Connection, Ken meets with one of the co-founders to find out what the business is all about, and try their Bloody Mary Charcuterie Board. The creation is perfect for a weekend at home, or a gathering…

‘Boo at the Zoo’ Returns for Three Weekends in October

'Boo at the Zoo' is Happening Saturday, October 16, 23, and 30

DULUTH, Minn. – The annual family-fun fall tradition of ‘Boo at the Zoo’ returns to the Lake Superior Zoo on Saturday, October 16, 23, and 30. Each day we will have 9, 2-hour time slots for guests to choose from. This year, there are no capacity limits at this time and the timeframe is your arrival time. 9 am –…

Explore the Sights, Sounds of Tettegouche State Park This Fall

The Park is Seeing an Influx of Visitors Looking to Catch a Glimpse of the Beautiful Fall Foliage

SILVER BAY, Minn. – It’s one of the most scenic sections along Highway 61. Just a hop off the highway, Tettegouche State Park offers a wide variety of hiking, climbing, and camping options. “It’s not too hot, not too cold, it’s just about right,” said Kelly Thielien, visiting from Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The so-called “Goldilocks principle” holds true along the…

Huntington’s Disease Society of America Hosting ‘Hope Walk’ in Duluth

Duluth Team Hope Walk is Happening Saturday, Sept. 25 Beginning at 11 a.m. at Endion Park

DULUTH, Minn. – Team Hope is Huntington’s Disease Society of America’s (HDSA) largest national grassroots fundraising event. Thousands of families, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and communities walk together each year to support HDSA’s fight to improve the lives of people affected by HD and their families. This year’s walk is happening Saturday, Sept. 25 at 11 a.m. at Endion Park, located…

Northern Star: Gabby Jauhola

For this week's segment, we feature the star setter of the Proctor volleyball team who's led by her mom as head coach.

PROCTOR, Minn. – Volleyball is in the Jauhola family’s blood. “She has 7 siblings and all of them have played volleyball, whether in the yard or as an organized sport. Her brothers went to state twice for volleyball and she has a little sister coming up,” Proctor volleyball head coach Trish Jauhola said. “It’s nice because they’re always here supporting…

Potato Salad Perfection Inside the Kitchen of Howard’s Que

Cooking Connection: Homemade Potato Salad with Howard's Que

DULUTH, Minn. – We’re back at Howard’s Que in this week’s Cooking Connection where we get a sneak peek into Howard’s famous potato salad. While some of the ingredients remain a family secret,  the source of inspiration shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone. The amazing potato salad is a great compliment to the delicious, fall of the bone ribs, at…

Visitors Flock to See Fall Migration at Duluth’s Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory

Hawk Weekend Festival is Happening Friday, Sept. 17 - Sunday, Sept. 19

DULUTH, Minn. – Each fall, millions of birds flock south, migrating to warmer climates for the winter months. Happening now, the natural phenomenon is attracting repeat visitors, and new watchers to Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory for the great fall migration. “Would you like to see 10,000 hawks in one day come right over your head?” If you ask the average…

Solar Module Production Facility Taking Shape in Mountain Iron

The Sun is Shining Brighter in the Community of Mountain Iron as a New Solar Project Gets Underway

MOUNTAIN IRON, Minn. – Aside from the vibrant mining industry, one Iron Range community is now helping to diversify the workforce, becoming a new leader in solar energy. “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for him,” said Martin Pochtaruk, President and CEO of Heliene. With the help of a dedicated state senator, solar energy will soon be shining brighter…

Duluth Oktoberfestival Returning to Bayfront Park

Duluth Oktoberfestival is Happening Sept. 17, 18, 19 at Bayfront Festival Park

DULUTH, Minn. – Grab your stein and dig out the lederhosen! Duluth Oktoberfestival makes a return to Bayfront Festival Park on Sept. 17, 18, and 19. This is the second time the event is taking place. COVID-19 sidelined the festival back in 2020. The family fun begins Friday, Sept. 17 at 4 p.m. Duluth Oktoberfestival 2021 will feature the largest…

Northern Star: Baamlak Haugen, Emilia McGiffert, Victoria Thorson

For this week's segment, we feature three former Duluth Marshall soccer standouts who are all in their first seasons together at UMD.

DULUTH, Minn. – Victoria Thorson, Baamlak Haugen and Emilia McGiffert have all been playing soccer together for as long as they can remember. “Me, Emilia and Tori have been playing since we were little, we were playing on Gitch together and school soccer too and it’s been really fun. We’ve had chemistry,” Haugen said. They then played together at Duluth…

Howard’s Que Sets Up Shop in Duluth’s All American Club

Cooking Connection: Chicken Vegetable Alfredo from Howard's Que

DULUTH, Minn. – This week’s Cooking Connection takes you to Howard’s Que in the Lincoln Park Craft District of Duluth. Owner Howard Ross now operates his business out of the All American Club. Aside from ribs, potato salad, and other traditional BBQ staples, Ross also whips up a mouthwatering chicken alfredo with mixed vegetables. Click here to see the full…

Teamwork Takes Center Stage During Recent Youth in Action Retreat

The Retreat Took Place at Camp Esquagama in Gilbert, Minnesota

GILBERT, Minn. – The saying goes, teamwork makes the dream work. During a recent Youth in Action retreat on the Iron Range, over 30 students from St. Louis County connected, in person, to help each other build and grow as good stewards of the community. “I was a little bit nervous coming in actually,” said Lauryn Biondi, a junior at…