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The Cool Kind of Camping Tech

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’re in the wild this summer – you’re not alone. The number of first-time campers during the pandemic reached more than 10 million and access to cellular/Wi-Fi while camping, glamping or doing the RV/van adventures was top of mind for 57 percent of those folks. If you want your devices to multitask on the road, check…

Essentia Health President Discusses New CDC Guidelines, Push to Vaccinate the Unvaccinated

Dr. Jon Pryor, President of Essentia Health, Talks Vaccinations and Routine Medical Care

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota health officials are warning the highly contagious Delta variant of COVID-19 now accounts for more than 75 percent of the state’s new cases. “This is turning out to be a pandemic of the unvaccinated,” said Dr. Jon Pryor, President of Essentia Health. “If you’re vaccinated, you still could get COVID, odds are pretty low.” Pryor says…

Fredenberg Minno-ette Hooks New Ownership

Jason Manning and His Wife Brianna Purchased the Minno-ette in December of 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – A staple more than seven decades old in the Northland just recently switched over into new hands. Now the Fredenberg Minno-ette is truly a family affair. “It’s fantastic, it’s something I certainly don’t take for granted,” said Jason Manning, the new owner of the Fredenberg Minno-ette. For this local, longtime radio personality, it’s hard to reel in…

e-Bike Duluth Offers Effortless Entertainment

e-Bike Duluth Opened This Summer, Offering a Relaxing Way to Sightsee the Northland

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Active Adventures, Meteorologist Ken Slama takes an e-bike for a spin down on the Lakewalk to Canal Park with e-Bike Duluth. An e-bike is a great way to explore Duluth while not wearing yourself out pedaling uphill to your favorite vantage points. Just let the built-in electric motor do most of the work. Click…

Registration Now Open for St. Louis River Alliance Canoe Trip

The Excursion is Taking Place Saturday, Aug. 7

DULUTH, Minn. – After being sidelined by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the St. Louis River Alliance (SLRA) is bringing back its annual canoe trip. The event will take place on Saturday, Aug. 7 from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Paddlers will set sail from Woodstock Bay Landing in Superior. Participants are encouraged to register by Aug. 4 at 4…

With School Supply Stockpile, CHUM Makes Plea for Food, Monetary Donations

Monetary Donations Made Before July 31 will be Matched Dollar for Dollar

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s hard to believe, but the return to school is just around the corner. This year, instead of doing a back-to-school drive, CHUM is looking for your help with feeding Northland families in need. With virtual learning taking place for much of last year, the organization has plenty of school supplies already in stock for this fall….

Over 100 Minnesota Breweries, Cideries Prepare for All Pints North Brew Fest

All Pints North Brew Festival is Happening Saturday, July 31 at Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Good beer, beautiful sights, and fun sounds will return to Bayfront Festival Park on Saturday, July 31 for the annual All Pints North Brew Festival. After a cancellation in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 100 Minnesota breweries and cideries are thrilled to be taking part in this year’s event. Organizers expect this year to…

Capt’n J’s Miniature Golf Offers More than Just Fun on the Course

This Week's Active Adventures Takes Meteorologist Ken Slama to 'Capt'n J's Miniature Golf in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – In this week’s Active Adventures we head to Barker’s Island where Capt’n J’s Miniature Golf offers more than the opportunity to refine your putting skills. In addition to competing in a friendly game of miniature golf against family and friends, Capt’n J’s offers a beautiful view of Lake Superior, the SS Meteor as a backdrop, and frozen…

Duluth Salvation Army Monetary Donations Matched Through July

DULUTH, Minn. -Throughout the month of July, monetary donations to the Duluth Salvation Army will be matched thanks to a partnership with Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless. “There is no reason anyone in Duluth needs to go hungry, especially kids,” said Captain Bryan Ellison, Duluth Salvation Army Officer. “Summer should be a time for family and vacations,…

Gordon Good Neighbor Days Returns After 2020 Cancellation

Event Brings Over 8,000 People to the Community of Gordon, Wisconsin

GORDON, Wis. – The town of Gordon, Wisconsin is made up of nearly 600 people, but this weekend thousands will arrive to help kick off the summer season. The 60th annual Gordon Good Neighbor Days runs from Friday, July 2 – Sunday, July 4. The event is returning after a COVID-19 prompted hiatus in 2020. Board members work year-round the…

Yellow Bird Fine Art Expands into Downtown Duluth

Yellow Bird Fine Art's Flagship Store is Located in Grand Marais

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’re looking for a unique gift, or a creative piece to display on the walls inside your home, there’s a new shop that’s now open in downtown Duluth. “We only carry original artwork,” said Quay Flom, co-owner of Yellow Bird Fine Art. Word of mouth, and a creative canvas is helping Yellow Bird Fine Art expand…

Big Top Chautauqua Celebrates 35th Anniversary With Jam-Packed Summer

The Season Kicked off Friday, June 18, 2021

BAYFIELD, Wis. – After a COVID-19 prompted hiatus in 2020, Big Top Chautauqua is back and ready to celebrate 35 years of entertainment in the community. This year’s season began June 18 and will run through September 17. “We can’t wait for our grand reunion when we see you all back up at the tent, and we are able to…

Duluth Salvation Army Looking for Food Donations, Hygiene Products

The Need for Food and Hygiene Assistance Increases as Kids Get Out of School

DULUTH, Minn. – We often hear about the high demand for food and monetary donations during the holiday season, but demand remains just as high throughout the summer months as well. The Duluth Salvation Army is currently accepting donations of food and hygiene products. The increase in need stems from more students being home over the summer months, and families…

COVID-19 Hospitalizations Remain Steady at Essentia Health

Dr. Jon Pryor, President of Essentia Health, Talks Hospitalizations, Vaccinations, and Summer Safety

DULUTH, Minn. – Over 46 percent of the eligible population in Minnesota is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In Wisconsin, over 44 percent of the eligible population is fully vaccinated. While the numbers continue to climb, health officials say there is still plenty of work to be done. Dr. Jon Pryor is the President of Essentia Health in Duluth. Pryor says…

Lake Superior Zoo Spring Membership Drive Ends Today

Zoo Officials Say Memberships Pay for Themselves After Two Visits to the Facility

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s a summer packed with wild fun at the Lake Superior Zoo. Happening Tuesday, June 2, the zoo will host its M.A.D. Safari member appreciation day event. There will be free train rides, floats, and behind-the-scenes tours. Zoo CEO, Haley Cope, explains the benefits of becoming a member of the Lake Superior Zoo. “Beyond the bonus perks which…

Visit Cook County Looks Toward Summer Fun as Restrictions Continue to Ease

Visit Cook County Continues to Update Their Website Daily with New Entertainment, Activities Happening in the Region

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – With summer fun now in full swing, more visitors will be venturing up north to check out the sights, sounds, and entertainment Cook County has to offer. Kjersti Vick with Visit Cook County says they are prepared and excited to welcome tourists back to the region after a year of tight restrictions. Safety measures still remain…

Chef Arlene Coco Shares Recipe for Refreshing Asian Inspired Chicken and Rice Noodle Salad

Cooking Connection: Fresh Chicken and Rice Noodle Salad -- Great For Summer Meals!

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Cooking Connection, regional cooking instructor, Chef Arlene Coco, shares a quick, easy recipe to toss together for a refreshing dinner this summer. Asian Inspired Chicken and Rice noodle Salad Rice sticks can be bought at most grocery stores these days. Mung bean thread noodles are also great, they are smaller and more translucent. Mung…

Registration Now Open for Upcoming Humane Society of Douglas County Fundraiser

Kickin' It For Animals Fundraiser is Happening Saturday, July 17, 2021

SUPERIOR, Wis. – You have the chance to help support the Humane Society of Douglas County this summer. The shelter is hosting their first Kickin’ It for the Animals Golf Scramble & Foot Golf Tournament. Participants will enjoy a beautiful day on Saturday, July 17 on the green at Norwood Acres Golf Course in Lake Nebagamon. A 9-hole golf scramble…

Duluth Huskies Pitch Plans for Hosting Fans, Players Ahead of May 31 Season Opener

Changes Are Coming to Wade Stadium to Ensure Safety of the Fans, Players

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Huskies are revealing more about what the future of the summer season will look like amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Despite safety guidelines in place, officials with the team are simply thrilled to be bringing a grand-slam of a good time back to Wade Stadium after the 2020 season was canceled. “Everybody is like on…

North Shore Scenic Railroad Prepares for Summer Season Full Steam Ahead

Trains will Begin Taking Trips on Friday, May 21, 2021

DULUTH, Minn. – After a year of unknown, the summer season is looking brighter as restrictions ease across Minnesota. The North Shore Scenic Railroad will begin running routes on Friday, May 21. The volunteer team at the North Shore Scenic Railroad has been working around the clock to get up-to-date with certifications, and making sure the tracks are ready to…

Babbitt Resident Needs Your Help to Win $10,000 Prize in National English Muffin Competition

Voting Ends on Sunday, May 16, 2021

BABBITT, Minn. – Local resident, Crystal Schlueter, from Babbitt, Minnesota is one step away from winning $10,000 and being crowned the winner of Thomas’ ‘Split Decisions’ Recipe Contest, but she needs your help. Thomas’ English Muffins celebrated National English Muffin Day on April 23 by inviting fans to create with both sides of their English muffin. Schlueter created Hawaiian Pesto…

Essentia Health to Begin Vaccinating Children Aged 12-15

(courtesy: Essentia Health) DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health says it will soon begin vaccinating 12-15-year-olds with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. This follows the announcement on Monday that the Food and Drug Administration cleared the expanded use of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine citing evidence that the shot worked well in that age range. Essentia Health officials say shots are expected to begin…

Registration Now Open For Animal Allies Summer Camps

Camps Begin in Early June and Run Through August

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth is preparing to host youngsters from all across the Northland for a new series of summer camps this year. The first camps begin in early June, and will follow current safety protocols and guidelines to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Camps range from puppy and kitten camps, to helping animals,…

Local Business Transforms From Catering to Food Truck Service Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

To Keep Business Booming, the Owners of 'Room at the Table' Have Turned to Food Truck Service

CLOQUET, Minn. – The past year has been interesting, to say the least for folks in the food service industry. From a lack of indoor dining to canceled events, many changes have had to occur for folks to make ends meet. “With COVID, we started flipping burgers and it worked out great,” said Paul Sapyta, owner of Room at the…

Clinical Dietitian Reports Rise in Patients Dealing with Weight Gain, Eating Disorders

The COVID-19 Pandemic is Impacting Individuals on Different Levels Including Weight Gain & Eating Disorders

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’ve packed on a few pounds over the past year, you’re not alone. In a poll of more than 1,000 WebMD readers, nearly half of the women and almost one-quarter of the men said they’d gained weight “due to COVID restrictions.” St. Luke’s Clinical Dietitian, Mary Cherne, says she’s seeing an influx of patients coming in…

Lack of Staff Impacting Local Business Owners Along the North Shore

Staff Shortages Prompting Many Small Businesses to Make Adjustments to Menus, Hours of Operation Along the North Shore

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – It’s a serious, seasonal problem along the North Shore of Lake Superior. The struggle to find employees at often overflowing businesses. Frustration is high among business owners as the peak summer season is now just weeks away. “We’ve tried every possible avenue to attract staff,” said Abby Tofte, owner of The Fisherman’s Daughter. It’s a common…

Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center Offering Trip of a Lifetime for Area Veterans

The First Round of Applications is Due by Friday, May 14, 2021

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Northland veterans are urged to apply for the trip of a lifetime now through Friday, May 14. A final deadline for consideration is set for Friday, May 21 for those who miss the first review date. The 4th and 5th trips for veterans to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Northern Minnesota are slated for this summer. The trips…

Friendly Reminders from Wildwoods as Spring Newborn Season Arrives

Wildwoods Would Like to Remind the Public to Contact Their Office Before Dealing with Wildlife, Especially Newborn Animals

DULUTH, Minn. – Spring is a time for new life, and new beginnings, especially in the animal kingdom. Come late May and early June, fawns will start to be born, and oftentimes people end up getting in between the newborns and their mother. Staff at Wildwoods Rehabilitation Center in Duluth are currently dealing with calls for baby birds, squirrels, and…

UMD Recreational Sports Outdoor Program Providing Opportunities for Students, Community

This Summer the Program will Expand Its Offerings to Your Camping Destination

DULUTH, Minn – Over the past year, many have turned to the outdoors as a source of solace amid a global health crisis and other stressors in our everyday lives. “It’s perfect. I couldn’t be any more grateful,” said Hannah Holmberg, a senior at UMD. It’s a source of gratitude only Mother Nature can provide. “We have three extra days…

New BBQ Eatery Now Open on the Iron Range

Neighbor's BBQ Serves Fresh Meats Smoked Daily at Their Location in Tower, Minnesota

TOWER, Minn. – If you’re looking to get your hands on a mouthwatering rack of ribs, the Iron Range is now the place to do it. “I want to put Minnesota barbecue on the map,” said Eric Drake, owner of Neighbor’s BBQ. “I’ve been smoking meat for over 15 years.” It’s not Kansas City, Memphis, Texas, or Carolina style. Eric…

Help Raise Awareness for Huntington’s Disease Throughout May

May is Huntington's Disease Awareness Month; the Genetic Disease Eventually Leads to Death as a Cure is Not Known at This Time

DULUTH, Minn. – May is Huntington’s disease (HD) Awareness Month. HD is a fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It deteriorates a person’s physical and mental abilities during their prime working years and has no cure. Recently, the HD Community was hit with devastating news as the Roche Phase III Generation HD1 Study…

COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations Trend Up in Itasca County as Vaccine Rollout Continues

Itasca County Public Health Division Urges All Residents to Research and Receive Their COVID-19 Vaccination

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Itasca County Public Health and area residents are reflecting on the gratitude of science after surpassing the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Public Health Department reports new cases of COVID-19 to continue to rise in Itasca County, especially among residents aged 30 – 50, and school-aged children. As of Thursday, April 29, in the…

Business Owners On Lake Vermilion Optimistic for Much Better Summer Season

The Owners of Lake Vermilion Houseboats and Pike Bay Lodge Look Forward to Welcoming Guests Back to the Great Outdoors

LAKE VERMILION, Minn. – After a year of the unknown and countless cancellations, the summer season is looking brighter for businesses along Lake Vermilion. “This year is looking to be our best year-to-date,” said Kyle Colbert, owner of Lake Vermilion Houseboats. The scene is calm on Lake Vermilion, but many business owners are preparing for a stampede of activity as…

New Bagel Business Opens in Northland

Lift Bridge Bagels is currently taking orders online for a variety of flavors of bagels and the owner loves interacting with her customers.

SUPERIOR, Wisc.- After starting making her bagels a few years ago, owner Lexy Land’s bagel business began to take shape. “They are all made out of organic wheat, and then organic cane sugar goes in the dough as well as the yeast and the salt,” Lift Bridge Bagels Owner, Lexy Land says. This past winter season, Lift Bridge Bagels was…

St. Luke’s Seeing Rise in Middle Aged Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19

Hospitilizations Declined in February and March, but Dr. Andrew Thompson Says the Rate is Beginning to Rise Again

DULUTH, Minn. – A recent report released by the CDC shows nearly eight percent, or five million Americans have not received their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. St. Luke’s Infectious Disease Specialist, Dr. Andrew Thompson, has mixed reaction to the new data. Thompson says while the number is somewhat cause for concern, 92 percent of adults who have received…

Essentia Vision Northland Project 35 Percent Complete, On Track for 2023 Opening

The $900 Million Project Remains On Budget as Crews Work to Enclose the New Inpatient, Outpatient Facilities

DULUTH, Minn. – A multi-million dollar development is changing the skyline of Duluth’s downtown district. Ground broke on Essentia’s Vision Northland Project in 2019, and if you’ve recently driven by, you’ve noticed a large amount of progress has been made on the exterior of the new structure. What started as a vision in 2017 is now becoming an impressive reality….

Bid Now! Rotary Club of Superior Hosting Virtual Fundraiser

The Craft Beer & Wine Fundraising Event is Happening April 26 - May 2

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Rotary Club of Superior is hosting its 9th annual “Craft Beer and Wine Event” with a twist in 2021. This year, for the health and well-being of supporters, the Rotary Club will be offering an online-only auction via Bidding Owl throughout the week of April 26 – May 2. Proceeds from this year’s online auction will…

Essentia Vision Northland Project 35 Percent Complete, On Track For 2023 Opening

The $900 Million Project Remains On Budget as Crews Work to Enclose the New Inpatient, Outpatient Facilities

DULUTH, Minn. – A multi-million dollar development is changing the skyline of Duluth’s downtown district. Ground broke on Essentia’s Vision Northland Project in 2019, and if you’ve recently driven by, you’ve noticed a large amount of progress has been made on the exterior of the new structure. What started as a vision in 2017 is now becoming an impressive reality….

Humane Society of Douglas County Hosting Virtual ‘Paws for Love’ Fundraiser

The Fundraiser Ends Sunday, April 25 at 9 p.m.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Humane Society of Douglas County Paws for Love fundraising event is taking place virtually in 2021. The auction event is happening now, and will run through Sunday, April 25 at 9 p.m. Tickets are free in 2021. Organizers say they will still have a wonderful silent auction and heartwarming informational videos. Guests will have nine full…

Youth Aged 16-18 Encouraged to Sign Up for COVID-19 Vaccination in Itasca County

A Vaccination Clinic Will Take Place Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. in Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Even with the pause of Johnson & Johnson’s COVID vaccine, the rollout continues to be strong in Itasca County. Public health leaders say only 6.6 percent of the vaccines delivered to Minnesota have been from Johnson & Johnson. As of Thursday, April 15, 78 percent of the 65-plus population in Itasca County has been vaccinated while…