Community

Superior’s Red Mug Announces Not Reopening at Hammond Avenue Location

SUPERIOR Wis.- A popular coffeehouse and bakery in Superior will be shutting it’s doors, but the owner says it’s not going away. Red Mug Coffeehouse on Hammond Avenue and Broadway will not be reopening in its current location. A post on their Facebook page said that after being closed down since March, the owner sees no way around closing that…

Experts Share Tips on Keeping Family, Pets Safe in Intense Summer Heat

Duluth Fire Officials and experts from Animal Allies weigh in on keeping pets and people hydrated and protected.

DULUTH, Minn.- Summer heat doesn’t last long in the Northland. While you enjoy it for the short time it’s here, experts say it’s important to do so safely. The first few weeks of summer have been scorchers in the Northland, with temperatures this past week reaching 90 degrees for the first time since August 2018 and temps nearing 90 Fourth…

Annual Car Show Rides Through Superior as ‘Car Cruise’

SUPERIOR, Wis.- While Superior’s fireworks were canceled due to COVID-19, some gearheads still made the most of the Fourth of July. Since the annual Dennis VanAlstine Car Show was canceled as well this year, the “Anything with a Motor Cruise” took its place to give motorists a chance to let their rides shine. The parade of hot rods started at…

Campgrounds Are Helping People Escape Impacts Of The Pandemic

"We're very pleasantly pleased and surprised that people are coming from so many places," said Penmarallter Campground's Owner Pennie Burton.

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – The Covid-19 crisis may still have a grip on the entire world, but campgrounds like Penmarallter in Two Harbors is giving people a chance to escape that reality. Tucked away behind a busy highway, you can find Penmarallter Campground. “This campground is absolutely beautiful and we enjoy it,” said Kit Hautamaki. It’s quiet and quaint, which…

Park Point Residents Host Rummage Sale

DULUTH, Minn. – A 20 family rummage sale is being held during the 4th of July weekend. It offers the chance for people to shop while still maintaining good social distancing practices. While shoppers are required to wear a mask, organizers say Northlanders are showing their appreciation for having the sale. “They all miss going to garage sales. They miss…

Veterinarians Talk Pet Safety During 4th of July Weekend

A high percentage of pets face anxiety from the noise associated with fireworks every Independence Day.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The 4th of July may not be your pets favorite holiday. A high percentage of pets face anxiety from the noise associated with fireworks every Independence Day. For those who don’t have a plan in place for the day, veterinarians say the best thing pet owners can do is provide some love and toys to keep them…

Midday Update 7-3-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, July 3, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ryan Johnson for a local look at news and weather making headlines this Independence Day-eve. Have a great weekend, and stay safe! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, ryan johnson, weather

Morning Update 7-3-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, July 3, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ryan Johnson for a local look at news and weather making headlines this Independence Day-eve. Have a great weekend, and stay safe! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, ryan johnson

Walz Asks Trump for ‘Major Disaster’ Aid Following Unrest

Estimates of the total damage exceed $500 million.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Gov. Tim Walz has requested federal money to help Minnesota rebuild and repair fire damage from the unrest that followed George Floyd’s death. Walz asked President Donald Trump to declare a “major disaster” because of extensive damage to public infrastructure following the death of Floyd on May 25 after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed…

Lifeguards Return To Park Point Beach

Lifeguards will only staff Park Point Beach from July 10th through Labor Day.

DULUTH, Minn. – Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the city had to put a pause on the use of lifeguards at park point beach. Now the city is partnering with the Duluth Area YMCA to bring those lifeguards back. Starting from July 10 until Labor Day the lifeguards will return to Park Point Beach. The Duluth Area YMCA is in…

Homeless Rate Goes Up In St. Louis County

Last year more than 500 people in the county said they were experiencing homelessness, but this year, it's up to 600 people.

DULUTH, Minn. – A study completed by St. Louis County in January uncovered an increase in the number of people dealing with homelessness The County conducts what it calls the “Point in Time” survey every year. This year, surveyors found that homeless people living in shelters or on the streets jumped by nearly 20% compared to last year. The study…

Midday Update 7-2-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, July 2, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Chief Meteorologist Sam Gabrielli for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, July 2, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, Sam Gabrielli

Blasting Off for the Fourth with Delicious Desserts by Sweet Exchange

Cooking Connection: Sweet Exchange Fourth of July Cupcakes

DULUTH, Minn. – Independence Day is right around the corner, and you can’t forget dessert on the picnic table! In this week’s Cooking Connection, Lisa Quarles, pastry chef and owner of Sweet Exchange, teaches FOX 21’s Brett Scott how to make and decorate the company’s mouthwatering cupcakes. They’re red velvet with chocolate frosting, topped with a swirl of Sweet Exchange…

Morning Update 7-2-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, July 2, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Chief Meteorologist Sam Gabrielli for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, July 2, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Jamrock Cultural Restaurant Finds New Home After Eviction Complicates Business

After being evicted due to serving the food to cars lined up outside his home, the owner and chef said, a Superior bar helped him out.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- A local cook who’s Caribbean food business was sidelined after his landlord evicted him is teaming up with a Superior bar owner to serve his food once again. Average Joe’s Pub off Hammond Avenue was packed Tuesday evening, but people weren’t just there for a drink — but for Jamrock Cultural Restaurant in the back of the building….

Local Musician, Disability Rights Advocate Writes to Duluth Council in Favor of Mask Mandate

Gaelynn Lea says she feels requiring masks indoors is a logical first step for Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.- A local musician and outspoken advocate for people with disabilities is voicing her support of the City Council approving a mask-mandate in public buildings. Gaelynn Lea recently wrote to Mayor Emily Larson and also the City Council urging them to require mask-wearing in the city. She said people who don’t wear a mask in public create a serious…

Tourists Take In Amnicon Falls State Park

With over eight-hundred acres, and four unique waterfalls, Amnicon Falls State Park has a lot to explore.

SOUTH RANGE, Wisc. – Just outside of Superior you can find majestic falls waiting to be seen. “Every year me, my uncle and my brother go adventuring go adventuring up here. We just go to some state parks and this was the one we can to this year,” Wild Rose Wisconsin Resident, Julia Sullivan says. With over eight-hundred acres, and…

Wild State Cider Expands

Patrons are welcome into the taproom during the process.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s been more than a year since Wild State Cider in Duluth opened its doors for the first time. Now it’s expanding. The popular cidery is extending its existing space to make room for six new tanks. A new canning line has already been added and some other building upgrades are taking place. Wild State distributes its…

Emergency Ordinance Proposal Could Require Everyone To Wear Masks Indoors

As an effort to ensure mass compliance with this proposed ordinance Essentia Health has offered to donate 20,000 masks to the public.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth City Council is proposing an emergency ordinance to require everyone to wear masks while indoors From a statistical standpoint, many health officials believe wearing masks is a no brainer. As the number of Covid-19 cases keeps fluctuating daily around the nation, it can be difficult to see an end to the pandemic. Health experts believe…

Midday Update 7-1-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 1, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Lake Superior Zoo Launches Phase Two of Reopening, Membership Drive Extended

Starting Thursday, July 2, Lake Superior Zoo will Welcome Back Visitors to Indoor Exhibits

DULUTH, Minn. – The call of the wild is calling Northlanders back to the Lake Superior Zoo amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting Thursday, July 2, the zoo will begin phase two in the reopening process. This will allow visitors to once again check out indoor exhibits, just in time for the Fourth of July holiday weekend. “We’re just really excited…

Morning Update 7-1-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 1, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Former Hermantown Police Chief, Sons Among Injured In Hit-And-Run; Suspect Charged

Complaint: Suspect Rodney Scandin Jr. of Two Harbors drank two beers and got distracted before crash.

DULUTH, Minn. – A Two Harbors man was charged in St. Louis County Court Tuesday after a hit-and-run in Midway Township Friday that seriously injured five people — one of them critically. Suspect Rodney Scandin Rodney Scandin Jr., 35, of Two Harbors is charged with five felonies and a misdemeanor, including Criminal Vehicular Operation leading to bodily harm while also leaving…

Longview Tennis Club Resumes Operations

"I think tennis is for everybody. You don't have to be a professional at it."

DULUTH, Minn. – “I think tennis is for everybody. You don’t have to be a professional at it,” Longview Tennis Manager, Kirk Summers says. Whether you’re an ammeter or an expert, there’s no questioning how good it feels to get back outside. “We know we don’t have many days like this which is nice to come down and play outdoors,”…

Tutors Wanted For Duluth Area Schools

The deadline to apply is July 29th.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the Covid-19 crisis has already thrown a curveball in the way students receive their education there is a growing need to help students struggling with math are reading. The Math and Reading Corp of Minnesota is hoping to help fill those gaps. The organization is looking to hire nearly 2,000 tutors across the state and about…

Propane Prices Are Beginning To Go Up

In the last few months, the cost of propane has jumped by 30 cents.

DULUTH, Minn. – At the start of the pandemic, the cost for fuel and other energy resources dropped drastically. But as the world inches closer to an economic recovery those prices are steadily climbing. Fuel companies like Superior Fuel in Duluth are now urging their customers to take advantage of the low pricing while it lasts. In recent weeks, the…

ER Visits For Heart Attack, Stroke, And Diabetic Issues Drop During Pandemic

A national study found that visits for heart attack or stroke were down by at least 20% between March and May.

DULUTH, Minn. – Hospitals around the nation are experiencing declines in emergency room visits that are not Covid-19 related, but is a direct impact of the pandemic. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is showing a noticeable drop in emergency room visits for people suffering from heart attacks, strokes, and those living with uncontrolled diabetes….

North Shore Scenic Railroad Poised to Reopen

DULUTH, Minn. – The North Shore Scenic Railroad and Lake Superior Railroad Museum are set to reopen on Wednesday. The two will open together after being shut down for several months allowing directors to take a look at other attractions open around the country to see what was working for them. Now, with an increased emphasis in safety and touchless…

Midday Update 6-30-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Morning Update 6-30-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Fireworks Disturbances Creating Need To Warn About The Dangers

Duluth Police officers have answered nearly one hundred fireworks-related calls since June 1st.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department is seeing an uptick in calls for fireworks disturbances. As those calls increase, the Duluth Fire Department is looking to remind fireworks users about the potential dangers and the importance of safety. As the Fourth of July inches closer, the use of illegal fireworks around Duluth has increased drastically compared to the same…

Virtual Driver’s Education Courses Helps Get Teens Prepared For The Road

Young drivers are required to take 30 hours of classroom instruction, but the pandemic has put limitations on in-person classes.

DULUTH, Minn. – Many teens hoping to begin the process of getting their driver’s license, may have thought they lost their chance this year, as the Covid-19 pandemic continues. Fortunately, a local driving school is offering virtual driver’s education courses, so those teens get that opportunity. Northern Lights Driver Education is accepting sign-ups for its upcoming virtual class. The course…

Midday Update 6-29-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, June 29, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, June 29, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Pick Your Own! Honeyberry Harvest in Full Swing at Farm LoLa

Honeyberries Have Rippened at Farm LoLa; Raspberries Will Soon Follow Suit

WRENSHALL, Minn. – In this week’s Coffee Conversation, Farm LoLa co-owner Lucie Amundsen chats about picking season as the honeyberry crops ripen and are ready to harvest. Honeyberries taste similar to a blueberry with notes of citrus toward the end. Farm Lola is located at 852 Cemetery Road in Wrenshall, Minnesota. You’re encouraged to visit Farm LoLa online, or call the…

Morning Update 6-29-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, June 29, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, June 29, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, Morning Updatte, William Seay

Cancellation of 2020 Apple Fest a Big Test for Bayfield Businesses

It is arguably the cities largest event, and at times, can bring in over 60,000 people to a town with a popular of under 500.

BAYFIELD, Wisc. – This year, the fall season in Bayfield will be looking different. “Certainly overwhelming. Very large crowds come into town over the weekend. When the weather is nice, typically the streets will be packed body to body with people,” Howl Owner, Mary Thiel says. That won’t be happening with the cancellation of the 59th annual Apple Fest, and…

Park Point Beaches Packed with Swimmers Despite Rip Current Warning, Choppy Water

Many spent the hot second week of summer on the shore or in the water, despite the Red Flag Warning

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Fire Department issued a red-flag warning on Park Point Beaches Sunday because of a high risk of Rip Currents. Despite this, many on the beaches said they felt safe as long as they were careful and didn’t swim out far from shore. Sunday’s cooler temperatures were a welcome feeling for many after a week of 70’s…

Liila Boutique in Lincoln Park Moves Store to Sidewalk

Store holds sidewalk sale to make up for not being able to open interior.

DULUTH, Minn.- Another local business in Lincoln Park is trying new ways to open back up while also following public health guidelines. Liila Boutique on West Superior Street has been bringing their store to the sidewalk the past few weekends. Since they’re located in the Duluth Folk School building which remains closed, they can’t open their doors to the public….

Zenith City Horror, Main Club in Superior Support Black Lives Matter with Twin Cities Supply Drive

Production company collected 4 carloads of items to send to communities in need.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- To celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Zenith City Horror Production Company and the Main Club on Tower Avenue teamed up to send supplies to communities in the Twin Cities, and show support for the Black Lives Matter Movement. “Just like the Black Panthers did with the Queer community in ’69 at Stonewall, we think it’s important to stand together…

Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation Appoints an Interim President

President Holly Sampson has lead the foundation for 30 years and is officially retiring next week.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation is welcoming an interim president until a replacement is found. Dave Montgomery, who serves on the organization’s Board of Trustees and is Chair of its investment committee, will take over for current President Holly Sampson. Sampson is officially retiring next week. Previously, Montgomery served as Chief Administrative Officer for the City…

YMCA Gives Thousands of Meals to Duluth Area Kids

Summer Food Service Program is available to everybody age 18 and younger

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Area Family YMCA is giving out meals to local kids over the summer. The Summer Food Service Program is available to everybody age 18 and younger. Meals include healthy items like sandwiches, yogurt, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Over the last few months, the YMCA has given out 9,000 meals. “A lot of families depend…

Free Mask Giveaway Provides Protective Wear For Rural Communities

"We want to make sure we are not spreading it when we can prevent it.," said North Shore Rotary Club President Carrie Coan.

LAKE COUNTY, Minn. – The North Shore Rotary Club handed out free face masks to residents in Lake County. This was the club’s second face mask giveaway. The organization was inspired by the Duluth NAACP’s effort to continue to provide free masks to members of the Duluth community. The Rotary Club thought it was the responsible thing to help smaller…

Wilderness Health Gets An $800,000 Grant To Develop A Telehealth Program For Mental Health

"There is just a tremendous need. We have rising rates of mental health in our region. We have rising suicide rates," said Executive Director Cassandra Beardsley.

DULUTH, Minn. – Wilderness health, a collaborative of independent health providers for rural communities, was recently awarded a grant worth nearly $800,000. The grant will be used to support the development of a telehealth program to offer mental health and other services to be used within its ten health system network. The funds will also be used to provide the…

e2ip Technologies Shutting Down Bigfork Facility By End of 2020

Economic Officials in Itasca County Provide an Update on Residents, Businesses Financially Impacted by COVID-19

BIGFORK, Minn. – Friday morning during a press briefing, economic officials in Itasca County provided new details regarding the economic impact COVID-19 is having on residents and businesses in the region. According to Tamara Lowney, President, and CEO of Itasca Economic Development Center, by the end of 2020, Montreal based e2ip Technologies will close its Bigfork location for good. The…

Midday Update 6-26-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, June 26, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, June 26, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Morning Update 6-26-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, June 26, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, June 26, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Overnight Fire Causes $75,000 in Damage to Structure at Ursa Minor Brewing

No Injuries Reported After Early Morning Fire at Ursa Minor Brewing in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Shortly before 1:00 a.m. Friday, Duluth Fire Department responded to reports of a fire in the area of 2415 West Superior Street. Crews located an exterior attached shed belonging to Ursa Minor Brewing that was fully engulfed in flames. Officials report the fire was quickly extinguished. Initial examinations revealed no fire breached the inside of the main…