Business

Wild State Cider Collects Apples For Community Cider

DULUTH, Minn. – Wild State Cider is working on creating this year batch of “Duluth People’s Cider”, which is being made from backyard apples. Community members dropped off their donations of apples on Friday. This is the second time the cidery has created this community-based beverage. Every year the flavor comes out differently due to the multiple varieties of apples….

Cloquet Airport Gets Financial Support To Build on Emerging Aviation Industry

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Carlton County-Cloquet Airport is receiving some extra financial support to help it continue to be a valuable asset to the community. The U.S. Economic Development Administrations is awarding the county a $1 million grant to establish a new aviation workforce training center. The aviation industry is rapidly growing in the region and the EDA recognizes investing…

LSC Makes COVID-19 Case Numbers Public Through Database

DULUTH, Minn.- Lake Superior College is one of many Northland higher education institutions choosing to keep the public informed of its COVID-19 case numbers. LSC along with other schools like Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College have signed on to report case numbers to a public database. Every Wednesday, the colleges and universities will report their status and the…

Utah Aviation Company Eyes Abandoned Duluth AAR Hangar

DEDA will vote on a resolution allowing the company Borsight to submit a bid to the US Air Force, to lease out the former AAR building to service aircraft for one year. 

DULUTH, Minn.- There’s growing certainty that a new aviation company will move into a Duluth maintenance hangar that AAR abruptly abandoned earlier this year, forcing people 300 people to lose their jobs. This Friday the Duluth Economic Development Authority (DEDA) will vote on a resolution allowing the company Borsight to submit a bid to the US Air Force, to lease…

The Lincoln Park Solar Garden Takes Shape

DULUTH, Minn. – The first two solar panels from the new Lincoln Park Solar Garden were lifted as part of the initial phase of the ongoing project. Last year, Ecolibrium3, a non-profit organization that works to create renewable energy programs, received a 50,000  grant from Minnesota Power to build the new solar garden. The 40-kilowatt energy resource will provide power…

Essentia Health’s Vision Northland Project Progresses

Patients will be able to begin utilizing the facility by the third quarter of 2023.

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health’s Vision northland project is continuing to make strides. The hospital’s main goal is to build a facility that has longevity. Dozens of construction crews have been working tirelessly to make the Vision Northland project a reality. “This building is going to outlast me. it’s a landmark. It will be a fixture of Duluth for a…

DTA Buses Collecting Fares Again in October, Plexiglass Barriers Added

Service has been free since March, DTA officials said, because drivers lacked the protection needed to collect fares at the front door. 

DULUTH, Minn.- Starting October 1st, it’ll now cost you to ride DTA buses again. Fare collection is resuming as new plexiglass barriers have been installed to protect drivers. Service has been free since March, DTA officials said, because drivers lacked the protection needed to collect fares at the front door. “We started looking for a way to go back to…

Wild State Cider Needs Your Backyard Apples For The “Duluth People’s Cider”

DULUTH, Minn. – Wild state cider is bringing back its “Duluth People’s Cider” and they want your help with creating this year’s batch. The cidery is asking community members to donate their backyard apples and a specialty “Duluth” flavored cider will be produced. This is the second time Wild State has created the “Duluth People’s Cider.” Staff believes this year…

Northland Catering Businesses Feeling Impacts Of Covid-19

DULUTH, Minn. – Many Northland catering companies are experiencing big impacts as the covid-19 pandemic continues. Midcoast Catering in Duluth is holding on strong in the midst of the global pandemic, but the business continues to face a lot of uncertainty. The ongoing health crisis has forced many area companies into having their employees work from home. With many more…

Duluth’s 2020 Projected Budget Shortfall Falls To $12 Million; 2021 Deficit Projection Announced

DULUTH, Minn. – There is some good news for the city of Duluth’s budget crisis related to millions of dollars in lost revenue this year because of the pandemic. The projected 2020 budget shortfall that was once nearly $40 million in April and was decreased in June to $25 million is now projected to land around $11.88 million. Duluth Mayor…

Waters of Superior to Close, Noting Difficulties Due To Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn.– A popular canal park business for the last two decades will be closing its doors for good later this fall. The reason for shutting down is financial difficulties due to COVID-19. Waters of Superior has been an icon in Canal Park since the store opened in 2000. Providing not only a unique shopping experience but also an opportunity…

The Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon Will Happen Without Spectators

DULUTH, Minn. – The Beargrease Marathon is one of the most anticipated winter events in the Northland. While the marathon is scheduled to take place this coming January, it will happen without any spectators. This year, onlookers will have to view the live race from home. Minnesota guidelines only allow for a 250 person capacity for the event. Most of…

Waters of Superior in Canal Park Closing its Doors for Good

(courtesy: Waters of Superior) DULUTH, Minn. – Waters of Superior in Canal Park is closing its doors for good. The business made the announcement on Thursday saying that the store will close on October 25. “While the store has been profitable, COVID-19 has reduced sales dramatically, and projections showed it would have been impossible to make it through the winter…

Donald Trump Jr. Makes Pitch for Father on Duluth Stage

"They say we can't win Minnesota. I disagree, what about you?" he said at the podium at the DECC.

DULUTH, Minn.- To a DECC ballroom of 250 Trump supporters, Donald Trump Jr. used his “Make America Great Again” event to bolster his father’s first term in office while bashing his Democratic opponent Joe Biden. “They say we can’t win Minnesota. I disagree, what about you?” he said at the podium to an eruption of cheers. The eldest Trump son…

First Frost Of Season Could Be Concerning For Gardeners

Gardeners say frost can cause a plant's growth rate to decline immediately.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Temperatures are starting to drop for the season and maybe creating frost concerns for local gardeners. Experts say when frost hits the vegetation will go into conservation mode and save nutrients down into the roots. The pores on leaves will also close to prevent the cold from coming in, which could cause the plant’s cells to freeze…

A COVID-19 Inspired Exhibit Headed For UMD’s Tweed Museum of Art

The exhibition will showcase the art of more than a half dozen local artists.

DULUTH, Minn. – A COVID-19 pandemic inspired exhibit is coming to UMD’s Tweed Museum of Art. The exhibition is titled “Creating Apart.” It will showcase the art of more than a half dozen local artists. Each piece of artwork will also tell the artists stories and how the pandemic has impacted them differently. By sharing this artwork the exhibit’s curator…

The EPA Awards Funding To Restore Environmental Areas Of Concern In Twin Ports

"When you clean up the water, remove the contamination, and restore the habitat, it is an immediate benefit for the environment and the community," said Kurt Thiede, Regional Administrator for the EPA.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it will be providing nearly $14 million in funding to help rehabilitate environmental areas of concern along the St. Louis River and the Great Lakes. The financial support is part of the EPA’s five-year plan to restore environments within the great lakes. The St. Louis River in the Twin Ports has…

OMC Smokehouse Shuts Doors Temporarily After Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19

The restaurant says they will be identifying anyone who may have been in contact with the employee and encourage them to get tested.

  DULUTH, Minn. — A popular restaurant in Duluth’s Lincoln Park Neighborhood, OMC Smokehouse is closing temporarily due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19 Sunday. “We are just working on trying to understand this and trying to do it the right way,” said owner Tom Hanson. In a post on their Facebook page Sunday, OMC Smokehouse said they will…

Labor Day Gas Prices May Hit Lowest Since 2004

The lowest price per gallon since 2004 was $1.82 according to Gas Buddy.

DULUTH, Minn. – Gas prices may be the lowest they’ve been in over a decade just in time for those Labor Day travelers. According to Gas Buddy, fuel prices during Labor Day are expected to be the lowest since 2004. Experts are predicting the national price per gallon for gas to hit $2.19. This is down by nearly 40% from…

Surly Brewing to Close Beer Hall, Other Breweries Impacted Due to Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn.– The Coronavirus’ financial fallout is forcing Surly Brewing Company in Minneapolis to close its popular beer hall this fall. This comes as breweries across the state prepare for an uncertain winter season without outdoor seating. The impact financially of the Coronavirus has been taking its toll on businesses across the country, including one of Minnesota’s most popular industries….

Organizations Shed Light On National Recovery Month

The month was started to bring awareness and celebrate those in recovery from substance abuse.

DULUTH, Minn. – September is National Recovery Month. Recovery is real from many people who have dealt with substance abuse and the Thunderbird Wren Halfway House and Recovery Alliance Duluth are making sure that the journey doesn’t go unrecognized. The halfway house has been a safe haven for native and indigenous people battling with their dependence on drugs and alcohol….

Red Mug Coffee House Opens Coffee Truck

Owners are waiting for construction to be completed for their new location inside the library.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – After closing at their previous location, the Superior coffee shop is now housed in a coffee truck outside of the Carnegie Library on Hammond Avenue in Superior. Owners are waiting for construction to be completed for their new location inside the library. Now in their second day back in business, the coffee house continues to serve up…

COVID-19 Creates New Connections in the World of Ballroom Dance

Superior Ballroom Dance Studio is Seeing a Slight Increase in Customers Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – Small businesses across the Northland are facing extreme financial challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic. From restaurants to boutiques, and even ballroom dance studios, changes are being made daily to keep clients engaged and revenue coming in. “I like to dance all day long and share knowledge,” said Benjamin Welch, head instructor at Superior Ballroom Dance Studio. “I…

Sports Card Sales Going Up Throughout Pandemic

Record setting sales of high-profile sports cards illustrates the high demand.

DULUTH, Minn.- Just this month LA Angels center fielder Mike Trout’s rookie baseball card sold for a record $3 million at auction. That’s on trend with a growing demand for sports cards according to local card shops. The manager at Collector’s Connection by the Miller Hill Mall in Duluth said Minnesota Twins and Vikings Players cards have typically been popular….

Superior Mayor’s 2021 Budget Proposes More Officer Training, Adding Social Worker to Police Dept.

The budget makes use of the roughly $385,000 surplus from last year.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Superior Mayor Jim Paine announced his 2021 budget proposal Monday. Calling it the most ambitious budget of his administration, it includes the largest investment into police training in the city’s history, and adding a social worker to the department. According to Mayor Paine, excess funds of $385,468 from the year 2019 will help the city forward through the…

Iron Range Mayors Endorse U.S. Senate Candidate Jason Lewis

"Mining is the engine that runs our economy. We don't have a lot of adversity in the city of Virginia," said Larry Cuffe Jr., mayor of Virginia.

EVELETH, Minn. – More than five Iron Range mayors endorsed President Trump for re-election during Vice President Mike Pence’s visit on Friday. Some of those politicians sat down for a round table discussion with republican U. S. Senate candidate Jason Lewis to talk about key issues impacting the area. The Iron Range can be mostly known for its mining industry….

Rebuild Duluth Program Accepting Applications To Fill Housing Needs

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth’s Planning and Economic Development Department is going for round two of its Rebuild Duluth program. The program was started to help reduce the cost of building new housing within existing residential areas. Applications are currently being accepted from individuals and organizations. More than a half dozen vacant lots that are capable of being…

Lake Superior Maritime Museum Gift Shop Drops Anchor Outside

Since July the gift shop has been right outside the museum on the sidewalk, as there are no plans to reopen the museum yet.

DULUTH, Minn.- As the Lake Superior Maritime Museum remains closed in Canal Park due to the pandemic, the gift shop is still finding a way to get little pieces of Duluth memories out to customers. Since July the gift shop has been right outside the museum on the sidewalk. The manager says while transitioning to an outdoor tent setting has…

Bremer Bank Opens In Downtown Duluth

The branch is open Monday through Friday.

DULUTH, Minn. – Bremer Bank has opened its newest location in downtown Duluth. The new branch, which is located in the Holiday Center, is a full-service banking institution. It offers traditional banking products and services such as checking and savings accounts. The branch was originally scheduled to open in march but the COVID-19 outbreak caused a delay. “We are opening…

DECC Interim Exec. Dir. Roger Reinert Wants To Innovate Venue’s Use During Pandemic

Bringing a local brewery's outside beer garden inside the DECC is just one idea Reinert is looking into.

DULUTH, Minn. — Roger Reinert — known in the world of politics in Duluth and St. Paul after stints as a city councilor, state senator and representative — is the new interim executive director of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center – replacing Chelly Townsend whose contract was not renewed for reason not disclosed by the board. Reinert is not new…

Domestic Abuse Shelter Looking to Build Playground

The center is still seeking an additional $15,000 for the playground

ASHLAND, Wis. –  After moving into a new location in 2019 the New Day Advocacy Center in Ashland is now seeking donations to help them build a playground and more. With Covid-19 limiting what their clients can and can’t do, having an outdoor space would cater to those families who enter their facility. “Here if they go outside they are…

Spirit Room in Superior Sets Up ‘Wine Stand’ Every Wednesday Outside

You can order a cup or bottle of any of their wines with a cheese and olive plate and take it to-go or enjoy it at any of their outdoor tables. 

SUPERIOR, Wis.- One Superior cocktail bar is interacting with its neighborhood and selling products in a unique way every Wednesday. The Wine Stand outside the Spirit Room on Broadway Street is like a lemonade stand, but with something a bit stronger for adults. You can order a cup or bottle of any of their wines with a cheese and olive…

DEED Commissioner Steve Grove Visits Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Small businesses in the Northland have been taking huge financial hits due to the global pandemic. The Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner visited Duluth on Wednesday to hear first-hand stories from some of those business owners and how grant funding has helped them rebuild. India Palace in Duluth has been serving traditional Indian cuisine to…

Mentors Needed To Help Support Students During The School Year

DULUTH, Minn.- A local non-profit is searching for mentors to help provide additional support to families as they navigate through the upcoming school year. Mentor North in Duluth is a one on one community based mentoring program. The organization is launching its new academic mentoring program to be a positive re-enforcement as many students and their families may be facing…

DECC Board Parts Ways With Executive Director, No. 2 Leader To Retire

Chelly Townsend DULUTH, Minn. – A major shake-up is underway at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center as the DECC’s board is parting ways with its executive director, and the No. 2 person under her has decided to retire. All of this comes as the DECC is virtually empty and facing a serious financial challenge during the pandemic. Chelly Townsend told…

Iron Range Communities, Officials Rally in Nashwauk to Keep Togo Prison Open

They say if the Governor needs to make cuts to address the state's budget, a big source of jobs and criminal reform on the Range isn't the place to do it.

DULUTH, Minn.- A packed crowd in Nashwauk rallied around keeping the Minnesota Correctional Facilities in Togo and Willow River open. “Keep the program that is actually putting people, taking people out of prisons and putting them to work,” said District 6 Senator David Tomassoni. Hundreds from both sides of the political aisle packed the Nashwauk Area Veterans Memorial Park, including…

Thrift Stores Are Busy Helping Those In Need

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Thrift stores in the Twin Ports are staying busy as people are continuing to deal with the financial struggle of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Salvation Army Thrift Store in Superior has seen an increase in sales in the last several weeks. The most popular items being purchased are clothing and household items. “Some people aren’t working and…

Students At UMD Will Have To Wait To Return To Campus

"Despite extensive preparation research planning and advice, the landscape is shifting yet again and we need to reevaluate our fall plans," said U of M system President Joan Gabel.

DULUTH, Minn. – The University of Minnesota’s Board of %egents voted in favor of a proposal to pump the brakes on the start of the fall semester as a way to further evaluate the potential impacts the global pandemic could have on students if they return to campus. 18- 24-year-olds are among the fastest-growing age group testing positive for COVID-19….

DLH Airport Seeing Less Flights This Summer Due to Pandemic

Commercial air service last month was down 80% from July 2019, though overall activity since April has been increasing. 

DULUTH, Minn.- Officials at Duluth International Airport say businesses during this peak time of year, June-September, is being hurt by the pandemic. According to Executive Director Tom Werner, commercial air service last month was down 80% from July 2019, though overall activity since April has been increasing. Normally most passengers fly out of DLH for business, Werner said. But due…

Marcus Duluth Cinema Reopens To Movie-Goers

Marcus Duluth Cinema will continue discount days like $5 Tuesday or Student Thursdays.

DULUTH, Minn. – It may have felt like forever, but the Marcus Duluth Cinema is open and ready to offer a safe distraction to everyone. Going to the movies just might be everyone’s favorite entertainment activity. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic put a pause of a lot of extracurricular fun. The Marcus Duluth Cinema has finally reopened its doors, but not…

Businesses on Iron Range Work to Recover After Slower Summer Due to COVID-19

Businesses owners say they're keeping their heads up, while local officials say the Fall and Winter seasons look bleak.

VIRGINIA, Minn.- As it has everywhere, the pandemic has put a damper on business on the Iron Range this summer — a time when many businesses just began opening back up after three months shut down. “It’s hard to know what’s going to happen with the virus,” Brooke Forseen, an employee at Canelake’s Candies in Virginia said. “It’s really just…

“Bikes For Basketball” Fundraiser Looks To Provide Opportunities For Young Boys And Girls

  DULUTH, Minn. – The Rookie Basketball Association, which is a year-round basketball program for young boys and girls through the salvation army, is hoping to raise money to keep kids playing the game. One of the RBA players came up with the idea to host a fundraiser called “Bikes for Basketball.” More than a dozen bikes and tons of…

Iron Range Businesses Recognized by Chamber of Commerce with Awards Ceremony

The normal awards banquet scheduled this year was canceled due to coronavirus-related restrictions, but the chamber still found a way to honor Range businesses. 

VIRGINIA, Minn.- Businesses on the Iron Range were recognized for their contributions to the community at Olcott Park in Virginia Wednesday. The Laurentian Chamber of Commerce Honored them as part of this year’s award ceremony. The normal awards banquet scheduled this year was canceled due to coronavirus-related restrictions, but the chamber still found a way to honor Range businesses. The…

Fitger’s Bookstore Shows Support For Local Educators

Teachers can receive a discount at Fitger's Bookstore every day.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Fitger’s Bookstore is helping teachers get ready for the upcoming school year. Wednesday was dedicated specifically to show support to those educators. Twice a year the bookstore hosts a teacher’s day to help them learn more about the benefits of shopping at an independent bookstore. Some educators also had the opportunity to have a one-on-one shopping…