TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Families headed up the North Shore to welcome in the New Year, which is keeping some hotel busy for the weekend. Several hotels, cottages, and cabins up the shore were already filled up for the New Year’s weekend. Some on the other hand, still have a few vacancies. One girl from Texas visiting her family in…
DULUTH, Minn. – Canal Bark in Duluth is closing from January 4th to the 31st as the business struggles to stay afloat. Before COVID, Canal Bark had about 30 staff members, some being full time and a lot being part-time. However, management had to lay off everybody in April. Then the business got federal funding and was able to get…
DULUTH, Minn. – FOX 21 Local News is taking a look back at the top stories that made headlines in 2020. Here are some of those stories from April, May and June. Categories: Business, Community, Crime, Features, Minnesota, News, Wisconsin
SUPERIOR, Wis. – Superior bars are gearing up for what could be a busy New Year’s Eve. Bars and restaurants in Minnesota won’t get to enjoy the excitement of New Year’s Eve crowds as they can only open for takeout. “I do feel really bad. I work at another bar in Minnesota,” said Jessica Horn, a bartender and server at…
CARLTON, Minn. – Carlton County’s Public Health and Human Services Division held its first drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination clinic. The county distributed its first shipment of the Moderna vaccine. The clinic was not open to the public. The vaccinations were only for emergency medical services workers and others helping to do community COVID-19 testing. One first responder says getting the vaccine…
HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Two Northland cousins are partnering together to bring some holiday hope to families throughout the area. Their collaboration is bringing smiles to healthcare workers and families in the newborn intensive care unit. It was back in 2012 after a long journey of infertility and pregnancy loss. Janelle Wourms carried triplets who ended up passing away, just a…
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Opponents of a pipeline project that crosses three states have asked a federal court to halt construction in Minnesota on allegations that U.S. Army Corps of Engineers failed to address several environmental issues when it approved a water quality permit. Two Minnesota Ojibwe bands and two environmental groups filed a lawsuit Thursday that asks for a preliminary…
TWO HARBORS, Minn. – McQuade’s Pub and Grill is continuing to adjust to new normals while settling into its new digs. This popular restaurant was once nestled in the heart of Two Harbors. In November it relocated taking over the building of the former Carmody 61. “We expanded our kitchen size a lot. That was a big thing for us,…
DULUTH, Minn. – COVID-19 vaccinations have started at long-term care facilities in Minnesota, including here in the Northland. Benedictine Health Center in Duluth received and distributed doses of the Moderna vaccine to its residents and staff. BHC, like many other long-term care facilities, has been greatly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. “We’ve had a couple of outbreaks within our community….
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn. – St. Louis Public Health has received its first shipment of the Moderna vaccine. The public health department held a vaccination clinic on Christmas Eve to distribute some of the 500 doses received. As of Monday, 150 people have been vaccinated. Priority is being given to public health nurses and local emergency medical response workers such…
HERMANTOWN, Minn. – With the snow finally blanketing the ground in parts of the Northland, more people have been getting outside to enjoy winter activities. At R J Sport & Cycle, there have been more people buying snowmobiles, especially this year when there’s less to do. The sales team there says that there are six snowmobiles still in stock with…
DULUTH, Minn. – Lotus on the Lake is closing its doors in the new year. The women’s clothing store, located in the Fitger’s complex, made the announcement in a Facebook post on Monday morning, saying: “The decision was made for me…I will be spending the spring and maybe some of the summer with my mom in Indiana! Lotus will be…
DULUTH, Minn. – Gift cards can be great last-minute gifts this holiday season, and a local restaurant is taking some of the proceeds from gift card sales to give back to its employees. Maya Family Mexican Restaurant in Hermantown will give 20% of the money raised from gift cards to more than 15 employees. Governor Tim Walz recently extended his…
WASHINGTON (AP) – House Republicans have shot down a Democratic bid to pass President Donald Trump’s longshot demand for $2,000 direct payments to most Americans. The made-for-TV clash came as the Democratic-controlled chamber convened its session on Thursday. It was scheduled in anticipation of a smooth Washington landing for of unrelated, but bipartisan bills. If Trump were to follow through…
ASHLAND, Wis. – The importance of shopping local is even more polarizing this year amid the ongoing pandemic. Many longtime business owners are thankful for continues support, while some new owners are grateful for a successful start during a global health crisis. “I try to bring things from all around the state,” said Jerry Henderson, owner of Taste of Wisconsin….
MOOSE LAKE, Minn. – After 14 years of running the well-known Arts Café in Moose Lake, management sold the café to new owners who transformed it into a barbecue restaurant known as Redneck ‘Meats’ BBQ. Dinel and Lance Hollarbach have been in the barbecue business for almost 19 years, and now they have branched out, opening their own restaurant in…
DULUTH, Minn. – About 2,500 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have already been given to frontline workers at Essentia Health. So far, only two employees had allergic reactions to the vaccine. Essentia Health officials say the reactions weren’t severe, but out of caution each worker was treated and evaluated. It is believed the reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine may be…
DULUTH, Minn.- Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake in Duluth’s Central Hillside got creative to welcome customers back outside, per Governor Tim Walz’s updated restrictions on Minnesota businesses which went into effect Saturday. New fire pit tables powered by propane tanks replaced most of their patio furniture, giving customers a toasty way to enjoy a beverage and food. On Wednesday…
DULUTH, Minn.– As the pandemic continues into its ninth month, local lawyers say more people have begun the process of getting your affairs in order. Dahlberg Law Office has seen an increase in estate planning during the pandemic. The head of Dahlberg says estate planning makes up most of his business. And that it takes a crisis event like Coronavirus…
ASHLAND, Wis.- The city of Ashland won’t behaving their long-standing Garland City of the North Parade this year because of the pandemic. Instead, it was replaced by a Christmas decorating contest. 57 homes and businesses in the city limits of Ashland joined up to see which is the most festive in the area, with the winners receiving a prize package….
DULUTH, Minn. – It was quite the scene Wednesday outside Minnesota Power in downtown Duluth as a giant wind turbine blade was lifted into place on the building. Two cranes were called in to lift the 82-foot, 6,000-pound blade. Allete said the blade symbolizes the company’s focus on sustainability as Minnesota Power is on the cusp of reaching 50 percent…
DULUTH, Minn. – Despite all of the negative news in 2020, Duluth Cider is ending the year on a positive note, and they’re also helping give back to our community. Jake Scott, owner of Duluth Cider, says their Greenstone Hopped Semi-Dry Cider has won a Gold Medal at the 2020 US Open Cider Championship. This is the second US Open…
DULUTH, Minn- The tax money generated from hotels, food, and beverage sales in the city of Duluth, is down by nearly 30% due to the financial impacts of the pandemic. This loss of revenue is forcing the city to tighten the belt on the distribution of money collected from tourism. Nearly 60% of the tourism tax budget will help fund…
ASHLAND, Wis. – Groups in support of the Enbridge Line 5 relocation project gathered Tuesday morning to announce the Wisconsin Jobs and Energy Coalition. The goal of the group is to help bring attention to different energy projects going on in the state and to raise awareness of the positive economic impacts of Line 5 and beyond. Recently the Line…
DULUTH, Minn. – The winners have been announced for the Greater Downtown Council’s 15th Annual Holiday Window and Lighting Display Contest. Ballots from the public were also totaled for Peoples’ Choice Awards and Facebook Favorite categories. Some of the top displays were at Fitger’s, Lester River Trading Company, and Frost River. One of the winners says it’s always nice to…
DULUTH, Minn. – Loll designs has been sold but it will continue to stick around Duluth, providing jobs for 85 people. The company was acquired by Landscape Forms, which is headquartered in Michigan. In the past, Landscape Forms collaborated on products with Loll designs and CEO Greg Benson says it’s going to be a great cultural fit to be working…
DULUTH, Minn.- At their second to last meeting of the year Duluth City Council voted on, among other things, next year’s distribution of a smaller pot of Tourism Tax Revenue due to the effects of the pandemic. Last year, about $12 million in Tourism Tax — or Hotel, Motel, Food and Beverage Tax — Revenue was collected for Duluth tourism-related…
DULUTH, Minn. – With fewer people not wanting to spend much time shopping in person due to the pandemic, gift card sales have been on the rise at some local retail outlets. Staff at Frost River in Lincoln Park says gift cards are very popular during this time. The store manager says increased gift card sales can really give a…
DULUTH, Minn. — A new company in Duluth that sells small, sustainable Christmas trees created from black spruce tops is taking off this holiday season. It’s called “Little C Tree,” created by Duluth residents Benjy Christensen, Nola Wilson, and Wilson’s brother. These trees can fit into smaller spaces, such as apartments, and can even be mailed to loved ones you…
DULUTH, Minn. – Demand for healthcare workers is becoming critical in the Northland. Essentia Health is now hiring, hoping to find skilled healthcare employees to fill the gaps brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. A shortage of frontline workers such as nurses is already creating a strain for hospitals in the region. Many hospital officials are getting concerned for the…
DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend, the annual Winter West Market will be held throughout west Duluth. The third annual event is aimed at supporting small businesses as many in the area will be offering up discounts. Owners at Wussow’s Café say it’s important to be supporting your local business for the market, especially during these times. “I think it’s easy…
DULUTH, Minn. – Throughout the week of Dec. 7 – 11, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the gift-giving season. Throughout the season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones while supporting local businesses amid a year of many…
DULUTH, Minn. – A Coronavirus vaccine could be available in the Northland within the next few weeks. Although a treatment is on the way health officials are still urging the community to avoid holiday gatherings to help slow surges in COVID-19 cases. Demand for a Coronavirus vaccine in the northland is expected to be far greater than the doses available….
DULUTH, Minn. – This season, the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldog hockey fans won’t be allowed into Amsoil Arena to watch any of the games, but you still have a chance to show your support for the teams in a creative way. Fans can now purchase a cardboard cutout of themselves to be displayed in the arena during the home…
NORTHLAND – With COVID-19 changing the way social gatherings are held, some area bakeries are feeling the impact. Bakeries throughout the region are having to be flexible in the way they distribute their treats with the pandemic changing the way they do business. At Johnson’s Bakery on west 3rd street in Duluth, business has changed drastically mainly because its catering…
DULUTH, Minn. – Throughout the week of Dec. 7 – 11, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the gift-giving season. Throughout the season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones while supporting local businesses amid a year of many…
NORTHLAND, Minn. – First responders have been strained by this pandemic, especially ambulance crews that may respond to someone having symptoms. Communities rely on first responders when emergencies happen, but as coronavirus case numbers surge in the region, the job is becoming more challenging. “We need some help in being able to respond to the emergencies,” said Virginia Mayor Larry…
TWO HARBORS, Minn. – McQuade’s Pub and Grill is now open for take out after relocating to a bigger space. The restaurant used to be in downtown Two Harbors, but now takes over the Old Carmody 61 on Highway 61. The restaurant expanded its seating and size of the kitchen. The owner says the pandemic has also allowed him to…
DULUTH, Minn. – With kids doing distance learning and adults working from home, there has been an increase in the number of repairs being done at tech shops throughout the area. As more and more people either work or learn from home, local electronic repair shops have been busier than usual, fixing up Northlanders’ devices. Over at Box Tronics in…
SUPERIOR, Wis. – Distance learning is becoming the norm for students but that doesn’t mean they have to be bored during these times. Duluth Flower Farm now has different homeschool kits for students of all ages. Kids can come to the store and buy their own homemade crafts, which range from winter decorated pots to wreath kits. “I just think…
ESKO, Minn. – A familiar restaurant has moved into the building previously occupied by Eskomo Pizza Pies in Esko. Mike’s Cafe and Pizzeria, which spent nearly four decades in western Duluth as Mike’s Western Cafe, opened up in early November. With the owner growing up in the town, he says that despite the pandemic, the community response has been uplifting…
BIWABIK, Minn. – Giant’s Ridge is officially open despite the pandemic to help Northlanders get outside to enjoy some beautiful scenery while getting some exercise. Fred Seymour, the general manager at Giant’s Ridge, says that with COVID, it has been difficult adjusting to the different precautions, but visitors are likewise being flexible as well. While skiers enjoy all Giant’s Ridge…
DULUTH, Minn. – During the week of Dec. 7 – 11, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the gift-giving season. Throughout the season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones while supporting local businesses amid a year of…
VIRGINIA, Minn. – The Virginia City Hall has closed to the public after one city staff member tested positive for the coronavirus. The closure is just a precaution to prevent the spread of the virus. The individual exposed to the virus worked as an evidence technician for the police department as well as staffed the general public services window. Unfortunately,…
DULUTH, Minn. – As the pandemic continues to hurt many parts of the Northland tourism industry Duluth city leaders are starting the process of deciding how tourism generated tax dollars should be spent next year. Last year, about $12 million in tourism tax revenue ended up being set aside for Duluth community investments and to help pay for some of…
HERMANTOWN, Minn. – The Hermantown Government Services building has reopened to the public once again after some staff members were diagnosed or exposed to COVID-19. The facility is home to the Hermantown City Hall, Police, and Fire Departments. The building was closed for about a month as a precaution for the safety of the public, but staff continued to work…
GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – During the week of Dec. 7 – 11, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the gift-giving season. Throughout the season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones while supporting local businesses amid a year…
DULUTH, Minn. – Some vacant storefronts in Lincoln Park are being dressed up with holiday displays created by local artists. The windows showcase holiday cultural traditions like Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. People passing by can read and learn more about those traditions. A local artist says she hopes the displays remind the community of the importance of sticking together. The first…
SUPERIOR, Wis. – The COVID-19 pandemic is continuing to put a strain on the funeral industry. The rapidly rising case numbers are making it difficult for funeral homes just to keep up. Since the start of the pandemic, the Lenroot- Maetzold funeral home in superior has been getting hit hard. “We had a difficult time trying to get PPE. The…
DULUTH, Minn. – Local mailing and shipping stores are keeping busy as more people are sending holiday gifts during the pandemic. The Pack and Mail on Grand Avenue has seen an uptick in customers sending packages all across the country. The steady business hasn’t left any downtime for the workers. A clerk says in the last couple of years mailing…
