Community

Morning Update 5-4-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, May 5, 2021

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

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…

Douglas County Excited for Tourism Comeback After Pandemic Dip

According to the Department of Tourism's report travelers to Douglas County spent $82.7 million in direct visitor spending last year -- a 22% dip from 2019.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- New numbers just released on Wisconsin’s tourism last year show a dip in visitor spending due to the pandemic. But Douglas County tourism officials look toward the future excited for a comeback. “A lot of other areas are experiencing tourism impacts of much more than that,” said Taylor Pedersen, President and CEO of Travel Superior. “So we’re excited…

Kari Toyota of Superior Purchases Old Motel Property As Future Home

The old vacant Manning Motel on Belknap Street will be the future site of Kari Toyota, which currently sits on Tower Avenue.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Superior’s Kari Toyota dealership is getting a new home on the former site of a motel in the Billings Park neighborhood. The old vacant Manning Motel on Belknap Street will be the future site of Kari Toyota, which currently sits on Tower Avenue. Chris and Amy Kari say the old motel’s 9 acres near the Bong Bridge is…

Ursa Minor Unveiling Brew to Raise Funds for Brain Cancer Research

This weekend Ursa Minor will debut their "Smash for Stache" brew. $2 of every crowler will be donated to Stache Strong.

DULUTH, Minn.- Local breweries across Minnesota are teaming up with a nonprofit to raise money and awareness for brain cancer research. Ursa Minor in Duluth’s Lincoln Park is partnering with nonprofit “Stache Strong.” they focus on supporting brain cancer researchers, survivors, and those suffering from disease. This weekend Ursa Minor will debut their “Smash for Stache” brew. $2 of every…

Doc Witherspoon’s Soul Food Shack Opens up in Downtown Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.– A new soul food restaurant is now open in downtown Duluth. Doc Witherspoon’s Soul Food Shack opened its doors Monday on West First Street. The restaurant offers southern-style comfort food, such as fried chicken, smoked wings, fried catfish, mac and cheese, cornbread, and a variety of other options that reflect the southern cuisine. The owner, Stephan Witherspoon, wants…

Northland Florists Preparing for Mothers Day Sales

With mothers day coming this Sunday, flower shops in the area are seeing a high demand of their products.

DULUTH, Minn. — Florists around the Northland are preparing for one of the busiest days of the year. With Mother’s Day coming this Sunday, flower shops in the area are seeing a high demand of their products. But some businesses are now dealing with a shortage of flowers as Covid-19 has impacted staffing at their suppliers in South America. At…

Downtown Businesses Optimistic About Summer Season

As we start to see more foot traffic this summer in Duluth, downtown businesses also expect to see an increase in their staffing.

DULUTH, Minn. —  A lot of workers had to change their usual routines because of the pandemic, but now there’s light at the end of the tunnel for when businesses can get back to normal. As we start to see more foot traffic this summer in Duluth, downtown businesses also expect to see an increase in their staffing. “About 49%…

Midday Update 5-3-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, May 3, 2021

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

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…

Morning Update 5-3-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, May 3, 2021

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

Undersheriff Phillips Hangs Up Badge After 32 Years with St. Louis County

Taking over for Phillips will be previous 9-1-1 Supervising Deputy Jason Lukovsky.

DULUTH, Minn.- On the last day of April, Dave Phillips said goodbye to his three decade career with the St. Louis County Sheriff office. “I truly can’t believe it,” he said. “It’s like you pick a day on the calendar and it’s like, months away, and then now here I am today.” “Want to go on a short ride?” he…

North Star Academy Students Sample Local Maple Syrup

The trees yielded about 60 gallons of sap which was boiled down to one gallon of syrup.

DULUTH, Minn. — Students at the North Star Charter school got a chance to sample the maple syrup they started tapping almost one month ago. The trees yielded about 60 gallons of sap which was boiled down to one gallon of syrup. On Friday, students went more in depth with the science and cultural significance of making the syrup along…

Midday Update 4-30-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, April 30, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, April 30, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Multiple Porta Potties Set on Fire in Enger Park Thursday Night

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Fire Department responded to reports of multiple porta-potties being set on fire Thursday night in Enger Park. According to reports, fire crews responded to the call just after 7:30 p.m. When crews arrived at Enger Park they found four porta-potties on fire which had spread to several nearby trees and ground vegetation due to the…

Morning Update 4-30-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, April 30, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, April 30, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Hayward Community Preparing for Fishing Opener

After five years, the muskie capitol of the world is set to host the annual Governors Fishing Opener this weekend in Hayward.  

HAYWARD, Wisc. — After five years, the muskie capitol of the world is set to host the annual Governors Fishing Opener this weekend in Hayward. “I would probably suggest maybe small mouth fishing if you’re looking at targeting a little bit bigger species. If you’re looking to catch and capture maybe take something home to eat before the opener I…

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…

Northland Newborns 4-29-21

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…

Midday Update 4-29-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 29, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 29, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Sweeten Mom Up with Desserts from The Cozy Hen this Mother’s Day

Cooking Connection: Turtle Cheesecake with The Cozy Hen

DULUTH, Minn.- In this week’s Cooking Connection, Meteorologist Ken Slama is on the quest to find the best dessert options in the Northland for Mother’s Day. The Cozy Hen creates handcrafted cheesecakes that are out of this world. This week’s segment features The Cozy Hen’s Turtle Cheesecake. Click here for more information. Categories: Community, Cooking Connection, News, News – Latest…

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…

Morning Update 4-29-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 29, 2021

  Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 29, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Sections of Downtown Duluth Streets to Close Temporarily

The closures will last from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

DULUTH, Minn. —  On Thursday, a part of East 1st street between north 2nd avenue east and north 1st avenue east will be closed to traffic. The closures will last from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. During that same time, north 2nd avenue east between east 1st and 2nd street will also be closed to traffic. The sidewalk will also be…

Annual Memorial Tree Planting Service Takes Place in Superior

The memorial also kicks off the tree planting season in Superior.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — Superior held its annual memorial tree planting this morning at Bear Creek Park in Superior. It’s meant as a form of dedication to all those in Superior who have lost their lives while on the job. So far, the city has planted these tribune trees for over two decades. “It’s also our celebration of trees. Superior has…

Midday Update 4-28-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, April 28, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Northland Newborns 4-22-21

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…

Morning Update 4-28-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, April 28, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

New Pet Grooming Service Open in Superior

Purr-fectly Superior Grooming opened in June of 2020 but has taken off as of late with more people opting for a more personal grooming style.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – A new mobile grooming service is now open in Superior. Purr-fectly Superior Grooming opened in June of 2020 but has taken off as of late with more people opting for a more personal grooming style. Owner Amy Laessig says, along with bringing her unique services to your home she also helps educate the owners about pet maintenance…

Landline to Increase Rides from Duluth International to MSP to Five Times a Day

This is an upgrade, from their previous schedule of just two times daily.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Landline bus service has announced it’s expanding the number of trips between the Duluth International Airport and the Minneapolis- St. Paul Airport. Starting on May 15th Landline will offer five daily round trips between the two spots on their flagship 35-seat motor coach service with free Wi-Fi and on-board movies. This is an upgrade, from their previous…

Church Holds Drive-Up Food Pantry In Superior

Anybody was welcome to pick up a box of fresh produce grains and baked good.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Faith United Methodist Church in Superior continued its 20 plus year food pantry tradition Tuesday – although a little different because of the pandemic. People could drive up, tell a volunteer how many people were in their family, and boxes of food would be loaded into their car. “We serve those who feel like they were in need…

Update: One Person Shot in Downtown Duluth Tuesday Morning

UPDATE: Authorities have provided additional information in connection to Tuesday morning’s downtown Duluth shooting incident. Police say they received reports of hearing multiple gunshots just before 8:00 a.m. and that a male had been shot. When officers arrived at the scene on the 200 block of East 3rd Street they did not locate a victim but found multiple casings as…

Midday Update 4-27-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Sun Country Airlines Announces Flights to Fort Myers, Phoenix From Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – On Tuesday Sun Country Airlines announced the addition of 18 new nonstop routes, including two nonstop routes from the Duluth International Airport. “With more and more people excited to resume traveling, we’re thrilled to be able to offer them the opportunity to visit these incredible vacation destinations this winter,” said Sun Country Airlines Chief Revenue Officer Grant…

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…

Morning Update 4-27-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Duluth Police Investigating Tuesday Morning Downtown Shooting

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Police are investigating a shooting that took place in the downtown area of Duluth Tuesday morning. According to police, officers responded to reports of a shooting around 8:00 a.m. in the location of 2nd Avenue East and 3rd Street. Authorities are still on the scene and say this is an active investigation. No additional information was…

Looking Back, Ahead Three Years After Husky Refinery Explosion Rocked Superior

Now three years to the day later officials with the Husky Refinery say rebuild is going well.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- It’s been three years to the day since the Husky Refinery exploded shaking the City Of Superior and forcing thousands to leave their homes and evacuate. Mayor Jim Paine looks back at the incident, as Husky says it’s on track for a full 2023 reopen April 26th 2018 was turned upside down when the Refinery exploded. “We were…

Duluth’s Labor Union Honor Workers Memorial Day

According to OSHA, over 5,000 people died while on the job in 2019.

DULUTH, Minn. — Members of Duluth’s Labor Union held their annual memorial breakfast and tree planting ceremony this morning. Several organizations in Duluth’s labor union community were in attendance. According to OSHA, over 5,000 people died while on the job in 2019. As workers safety continues to be a top priority in the trade, today was about honoring and remembering…

UMN Medical Student Researchers Find Long Term Effects Of Tear Gas

They recommend more regulation of tear gas usage -- and if possible, other options entirely.

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.- Some University of Minnesota Medical School students have complied research that suggests tear gas can have long-lasting health impacts. The short-term reactions to tear gas such as breathing problems and skin and eye irritation are well-known already. So, the PHD Graduate Neuroscience students analyzed other studies on the longer-term health consequences, and summarized those findings. They found one…

Duluth International Airport to Announce New Air Service Coming to Region Tuesday

DULUTH, Minn. – On Tuesday, the Duluth International Airport says they will hold a press conference to announce a new air service coming to the area. The press conference will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. where the Duluth International Airport executive director, vice president of the DIA Board of Directors, and representative for the new air service will…

Midday Update 4-26-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, April 26, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, April 26, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

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…

Morning Update 4-26-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, April 26, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, April 26, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, weather

Wisconsin DNR: More Fishing Tournaments Using Immediate Release

In catch-hold-release tournaments, anglers transport fish to weigh-in areas, where they're released but not in the areas where they're caught.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin fishery officials say more tournaments are abandoning their traditional catch-hold-release formats. The Department of Natural Resources says the number of bass and walleye tournaments that have eschewed the traditional catch-hold-release format for catch-photo-release rules has increased from an average of six annually between 2010 and 2015 to more than 30 per year from 2015 to…

Duluth P.D, Mayor Talk Transparency

Back in March, the Duluth chapter of the NAACP called for more engagement between police and the public. 

DULUTH, Minn. — On Friday, city leaders provided an update on how area law enforcement will provide more transparency in several areas of their department. Back in March, the Duluth chapter of the NAACP called for more engagement between police and the public. They asked for bi-annual reports on traffic stops, use of force, and arrest rates more proportionate to…