Business

Mayor Larson Announces 30-Day Duluth Mask Mandate; Restaurant Assoc. Not Thrilled

DULUTH, Minn. — Just days after the Duluth City Council was unable to unanimously vote to pass a new city-wide mask mandate, and after councilors agreed Mayor Emily Larson should take the lead on emergency orders of that kind, Larson stepped to the podium Thursday afternoon announcing just that — a new mask mandate for the next 30 days effective…

Cloquet Gets Funding For Expanding Broadband, Asks Residents To Take Survey

CLOQUET, Minn. – A foundation is recognizing Cloquet as an area of rural Minnesota that could use some help boosting its access to broadband internet. The Blandin Foundation offers $75,000 matching grants to help advance technology goals for communities that apply to be a part of the program, and Cloquet is one of the newest cities to receive funding from…

North Shore Scenic Railroad Resuming Volunteer Training

DULUTH, Minn. – After seeing record attendance in 2021, the North Shore Scenic Railroad is hoping to see this trend continue in 2022. They are in need of volunteers to help run their various excursions, and they are offering free training starting next month for those interested.  Unlike in years past, there will be no waiting for new trainees to get…

Mayor Larson’s Office Responds To Council’s Mask Mandate Failure

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Mayor Emily Larson and her administration released a statement Tuesday in response to the city council’s failure to pass a new mask mandate Monday night and after the council agreed the mayor’s office has full power and resources to lead the way on emergency orders like a mask mandate if that office so chooses, instead of…

Black Water Lounge Is Back Open In Downtown Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Downtown Duluth’s premiere martini bar, Black Water Lounge, is finally back open after three years in the dark. If you liked the atmosphere before, you’ll be happy to know that vibe remains the same with the popular band Maxi Childs Trio back at it on Tuesday and Thursday evening. The signature cocktails and apps are also back,…

Hit the Dance Floor at New North Shore Ballroom Studio in Duluth

They offer classes for beginners in both private lessons and group classes as well as advanced classes.

DULUTH, Minn.- For anyone looking to try something new this New Year there’s a new ballroom dance studio in Duluth looking for people who want to try moving and grooving into 2022. The North Shore Ballroom Studio just opened in the Kenwood neighborhood this past June. They offer classes for beginners in both private lessons and group classes as well…

Collector’s Connection Hopes To Reach More Hobbyists with New Superior Location

The owner says the new location allows him more room to display and sell his roughly 100 thousand comics, sports cards, and more.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- A longtime comic book and hobby store in Duluth has expanded to cater to enthusiasts across the bridge. Collector’s Connection opened its new location on Tower Avenue in Superior this past Black Friday. This is their second location the first being up by Miller Hill Mall in Duluth. The owner says the new location allows him more room…

Building Material Prices on the Upswing

DULUTH, Minn.-For those looking to build or remodel their homes this year, now is the time to start planning. Lumber prices are on the upswing right now as production has been slow due to the pandemic. Also, these prices are high due to the doubling of Canadian tariffs, dramatic wildfires, and high demand. There are still disruptions in the supply…

Businesses Reopen after Condemned Esmond Building Fire Monday

Caddyshack Indoor Golf and Pub is just a few blocks down from the building which was engulfed in smoke and flames for seven hours Monday.

DULUTH, Minn.- Some businesses in Lincoln Park opened back up Tuesday after Monday’s intense fire at the condemned Esmond Building, which once housed the Seaway Hotel. Caddy Shack Indoor Golf and Pub is just a few blocks down from the building which was engulfed in smoke and flames for seven hours Monday. The owner tells Fox 21 her biggest concern…

Nearby Residents, Business Owners React To Esmond Building Fire

They said the frequent fires show it's time the building comes down.

DULUTH, Minn.- The frigid firefight at the condemned Esmond building Monday required all hands on deck from not just firefighters but business owners and community members in Lincoln Park. Staff at the All-American Club just across the corner on Michigan Street provided hot coffee, muffins, and sandwiches for crews taking a break. They say they witnessed the last two fires…

Council to Vote on New Emergency Mask Mandate Monday

DULUTH, Minn. — A second city wide Duluth mask mandate will be front and center for a vote at Monday night’s first city council meeting of 2022, with a hot topic to start the new year for sure. If Thursday night’s tense agenda session says anything about the mask mandate topic, this proposed emergency declaration isn’t going to be a…

Bidders Excited to Get Hands on Last Place on Earth Items Up for Auction

Dozens of collectors filled Sellers Auction on Belknap Street and auction owners said they came from as far as Chicago and Florida.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- It’s been roughly seven years since the infamous Last Place on Earth was shut down. Those memories were unearthed Saturday at an auction in Superior. Dozens of collectors filled Sellers Auction on Belknap Street and auction owners said they came from as far as Chicago and Florida. The controversial head shop closed operations after owner Jim Carlson was…

Bitter Cold Increases Risk for Dead Car Batteries

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Below zero temperatures can create a number of problems for vehicles, none more prevalent than a battery that isn’t working properly. One auto mechanic retailer says the design of a vehicle’s alternator helps to keep batteries better charged than in the past, but human error such as leaving lights on or charging chords plugged in after leaving…

Duluth City Councilors Have Tense First Debate About New Mask Mandate

DULUTH, Minn. – The mask mandate debate is firing back up in Duluth and being fueled by Councilor Terese Tomanek.  But the push for a mandate was not received well Thursday evening at the agenda session by the majority of the council after some felt surprised by the topic, which wasn’t on the list of items to discuss ahead of…

Mask Mandates Return To Twin Cities; No Plans In Motion For Twin Ports

Duluth and Superior mayors told FOX 21 Wednesday there are no immediate plans to bring back a mask mandate for their cities after Minneapolis and St. Paul both announced indoor mask mandates returning at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 6. Duluth Mayor Emily Larson’s office released the following statement: “The City is tracking the infection and spread of COVID-19 in Duluth,…

Sen. Tina Smith Applauds Bi-Partisan Passage Of ‘No Surprises Act’ Involving Emergency Medical Bills

Minnesota Sen. Tina Smith is applauding lawmakers on both sides of the isle in D.C. for a new law now in effect to stop surprise medical bills for most emergency care. The “No Surprises Act” went into effect Jan. 1. Smith said Americans have faced unexpected medical bills for years after seeking emergency care ranging from hundreds to tens of…

Winter Freezing Fish Lake Energizes Anglers, Local Businesses

When the fish start biting, anglers start biting at the products and services of local businesses.

DULUTH, Minn.- For residents and businesses around smaller bodies of water like Fish Lake in Duluth, winter with its frozen water and snowy trails bring back anglers, snowmobilers, and a much-needed boost to local business and life.   “Especially when we get snow on the ground, we get more snowmobilers that want to stay and the trails just right up…

Vitta Pizza Uses Mostly Wood-Burning Stove, Not Thermostat, To Heat Business

DULUTH, Minn. — Heating bills can get high in the winter, unless you have a business that generates its own warmth. Vitta Pizza in Canal Park barely has to touch the thermostat, as its wood-burning pizza oven helps heat up the restaurant. The oven can heat up to 900 degrees, cooking pizzas in just 90 seconds. While the heating bill…

Ursa Minor Welcomes Guests To Covered Patio For Outdoor Beers

DULUTH, Minn. — One business taking advantage of how hardy Minnesotans can be when the temperatures drop is Ursa Minor Brewing, which is going into its first winter season with an added roof on its patio. The roof was first added back in August. The brewery’s founder tells us even before the patio became a little more sheltered from the…

Mushers, Fans Kick Off Beargrease Marathon Month with Bent Paddle Beer Release

Organizers say 26 mushers will take on the journey, some coming from as far as Alaska and Canada.

DULUTH, Minn.- January has begun which means the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is just on the horizon. And race month kicked off at Bent Paddle Brewery Sunday. The pour of Bent Paddle’s special Beargrease British Pale Ale marked that the race is ready to run. Signup for the full marathon race of 300 miles from Duluth to Grand Portage,…

Focus on Fitness, Mental Health for New Year’s Resolutions at Svalja Yoga

The yoga studio offers a diverse array of weekly classes including strength-based workouts, cardio-based classes like piyo, and stress relief programs.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s time to kick off those new years resolutions, and for those who have yoga on your list, Svalja is the place to start. The yoga studio in Duluth offers a diverse array of weekly classes including strength-based workouts, cardio-based classes like piyo, and stress relief programs. The in-depth training and workshops provided are intended to assist people…

L & M Radiator in Hibbing Damaged by Fire in Paint Booth

HIBBING, Minn.- L&M Radiator in Hibbing was damaged by a fire and subsequent smoke late Friday. According to the Northland FireWire, the Hibbing, Chisholm, Keewatin, and Virginia fire departments were dispatched to a fire alarm at L & M Radiator on 37th Street in Hibbing. The alarm was reported around 7:30 p.m. Arriving Hibbing firefighters discovered a fire in a…

Superior Ballroom Dance Studio Starting New Year with New Full Staff

Owners say they're ready to get back to spreading joy and happiness through the medium of dance.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior Ballroom Dance Studio held an open house to introduce their two newest teachers and 2022 programs Saturday. The studio was hit hard during the pandemic losing most of their staff, but now in the New Year, they’re armed with two new instructors. Among those new programs are College Outreach, Business Outreach, and First Free Wednesdays. Owners…

Keyport Liquor and Lounge Packed with Customers Seeking New Years Spirits

Experts say supply chain issues are holding up liquor being imported from outside the country.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Like many liquor stores in the area, Keyport Liquor and Lounge on Belknap Street in Superior saw a lot of traffic Friday. Along with beer, champagne of course was a big hit on New Year’s Eve. “Today it’s champagne, champagne, champagne,” said Store Manager Adam Mitchell. According to Mitchell, they’re with liquor stores across the country seeing a…

Twin Ports Prepare For a Lively New Year’s Eve

DULUTH/SUPERIOR — Authorities are expecting a busier New Year’s Eve this year with it falling on a Friday and local businesses and law enforcement have been planning all day to make sure they have their bases covered heading in to 2022. Last year’s holiday was a bit quieter coming out of the pandemic and that combined with the a holiday…

Larsmont Lodge Has Something For Everyone This New Years Eve

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — Bars aren’t the only ones prepared for the New Year’s Eve rush over at Larsmont Lodge up in Two Harbors they’re cooking up some fun activities for the family to enjoy. With a wide variety of like back country skiing, snowshoeing, and a free public ice skating rink, and guided outdoor activities like skiing tours, or…

Duluth’s Bed Bath & Beyond To Close

DULUTH, Minn. – If you love Bed Bath & Beyond, you better get there soon because the store in Duluth on Miller Trunk Highway will be closing. Customers were emailed about the closure Thursday with a promotion for a store-wide sale for every department. The ad did not say when the store will officially close its doors. The closure is…

Last Pieces of Last Place on Earth Up for Bid at Seller’s Auction Next Month

They'll host an auction for the two Last Place on Earth signs, hundreds of old albums ranging from 70s rock to disco, and even some fun adult items.

DULUTH, Minn.- Next month you could own an infamous part of Duluth history — the old Last Place on Earth store. The controversial head shop was shut down after owner Jim Carlson was arrested for willingly selling illegal synthetic drugs, mislabeled as incense and bath salts that were toxic to humans. After the FBI inspected what was left in storage…

Bentleyville Looking For More Volunteers To Help With Tear-Down

DULUTH, Minn. — The Bentleyville Tour Of Lights in Duluth wrapped up its final night on Sunday, and now volunteers are helping put all those displays away. We caught up with one young man who down to help out with his volunteer group, called Youth In Action, while he’s home from school on winter break. He said he likes visiting…

Footwear That Will Help Prevent Slipping On Ice 

DULUTH, Minn. — With winter weather hitting the Northland, icy spots are all over the place, even ones you can’t see. Tortoise And Hare in Duluth sells footwear that provides more traction on the bottom of your feet to help prevent slipping and falling on ice. The store sells different brands, such as Icebug, which include boots with the traction…

City Of Duluth Issues, Explains First-Ever Snow Emergency

DULUTH, Minn. – After more than two years in the making, the city of Duluth issued its first-ever snow emergency Tuesday requiring all vehicles on designated emergency routes with signage to be off the street by 9 p.m. and stay that way until 6 p.m. Wednesday. If vehicles are not moved, drivers could be towed or ticketed.  But Chief Administrative…

Action Packed Movie Theaters As Crowds Funnel Back Into Cinemas

DULUTH, Minn. — Time to get your popcorn, because the lines at the movies are picking up as titles like Spiderman and Ghost Busters are bringing more people to theaters. Marcus Duluth Cinema in Canal Park is back to full operations, but always gets a little busier around the holidays, and especially during the winter months. The General Manager of…

Knowing Your Neighbors: Spoon’s Studio

DULTUH, Minn. – In this week’s Knowing Your Neighbors, we take you inside Spoon’s Studio in Duluth.  It’s a new recording spot for people of all talents, with a goal of bringing the community together through music.  FOX 21 Photojournalist Adam Jagunich takes you there. Categories: Business, Community, Entertainment, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Vets: Keep Your Pet Active, Warm in Winter

They say to make sure to shovel a path for your dog to do their business, whether on a walk or in the backyard.

DULUTH, Minn.- It could be easy to hit the couch and cuddle your cat or dog close during weather like this, but vets at local animal hospitals say it’s important to get them walking even in the winter in a safe way. “It’s one more thing in the storm to do but pets are important and need to be taken…

Trashing the Christmas Tree? Junk Removers Offer Free Pickup

Just take all the ornaments off, and leave the tree on the curb, Twin Ports Trailer Trash will pick it up in January.

DULUTH, Minn.- While you can’t have Christmas without a decorated tree, there comes a time where they have to come down and head out of our living rooms. One local junk removal business is once again making it easier to turn your Tannenbaum into trash. Twin Ports Trailer Trash is doing free Christmas tree pickups for the 3rd year in…

‘Miracle 11’ Makes New Donations To 6 Local Organizations

SUPERIOR, Wis. – It’s been eight years since 11 skydivers with Skydive Superior played with death after a mid-air collision of two planes over Superior. And once again, those skydivers continue to put that highly publicized moment to good use in the community. Miracle 11is a non-profit that donates money every year to local organizations. This year included $2,500 to…

Maya Family Restaurant Staying Busy this Holiday Season

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – The Maya Family Mexican Restaurant in Hermantown has been seeing an uptick in sales this holiday season. After being shut down last year during the holidays, the restaurant was unsure how business would be this go-around. With Bentleyville and the Miller Hill Mall bringing in groups of people to the area, the restaurant is pleased to see…