Business

Duluth Wedding Show Celebrates 30 Years with Biggest Show Yet

Nearly 150 Exhibitors Expected for Annual Event

DULUTH, Minn. – Planning a wedding can be stressful and difficult, but luckily there’s a resource in town to help local brides and grooms prepare for their special day. The 30th Annual Duluth Wedding Show is Saturday, January 13th at the DECC. Nearly 150 exhibitors will fill six rooms of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. These will feature the latest…

Wisconsin Sees Decline in Dairy Farms

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin is seeing a decline in the number of dairy farms despite increasing milk production as commercial farms expand. Wisconsin Public Radio reports that numbers from the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection show the state lost 500 dairy farms last year. Wisconsin had just over 8,800 dairy herds licensed at the beginning of…

Norshor Theatre Wrapping Up Renovations

The historic Nor Shor Theatre will open up the first of February.

DULUTH, Minn.–  The countdown is on for the revival of downtown Duluth’s historic Norshor Theatre. In less than a month the stage will be lit and the arts and entertainment will begin.  The Duluth Play House will be turning on the Norshor Theatre marquee lights on February 1st. Many helping hands are ensuring the curtain will open. “It’s a historic…

Local Business Mining Cryptocurrency

Market Is Volatile, But Money Can Be Made from Digital Currency

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – There has been a lot of talk about bitcoin and other cryptocurrency recently. Now, there’s a business in the Northland where that currency is mined and released into the market. One of the owners says his business can be very profitable after an investment in computer hardware is made. “Duluth is an excellent place to mine cryptocurrency…

Ordinance May Restrict Flavored Tobacco Products In Duluth Convenience Stores

The Ordinance Would Amend Chapter 11 of the Duluth City Code

Management from both smaller local convenience stores and big names like Kwik Trip are speaking out against the proposed ban. Gary Milk House Owner Derek Medved carries a variety of flavored tobacco products. But the store owner does not want young people buying them. “We’re here to work with the city on that to prevent of course selling to minors,”…

Local Investing Expert Sees Future Dip in Market

Dow Closed at 25,300 Today

DULUTH, Minn.-The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed out at 25,000 yesterday, the first time that’s ever happened. That begs the question if Northlander’s should start investing more. One local financial advisor said you should always be investing in your future, but doesn’t want the public to think this surge will continue in the near future. He said that the market…

Fat Tire Biking Trails Expand in Cook County Ahead of Annual Race

Active Adventures: 2nd Annual Norpine Fat Tire Bike Classic

COOK COUNTY, Minn. – Cold temperatures and snow covering the ground in the Northland means fat tire bike enthusiasts are hitting the trails. The second annual Norpine Fat Bike Classic is being held Saturday, January 6. Approximately 200 cyclists are expected from across the United States and Canada. Racers can compete in a 24-mile race or 16-mile race. Racing begins…

Cold Temperatures Causing Shipping Delays

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Port normally sees cold temperatures like these in January, but officials say it’s the most ice on the lake at this time of year since about 2001. The freeze is happening so early it’s starting to hamper some of the ship movement, particularly in Lake Erie, which is much shallower than Lake Superior. Ships that would…

Life House has a new addition

The homeless youth advocacy organization has purchased a neighboring building

DULUTH, Minn. – The homeless youth advocates at Life House in Duluth are celebrating their newest property. Life House has officially acquired a building right behind its location. The building will be used to expand the education efforts for homeless youth there. “We have an in–house, paid, job training program for the homeless and street youth that we work with….

Personal Trainers Could be the Key to Unlocking New Fitness Goals

DULUTH, Minn. — If you’re one of millions making New Year’s resolutions to get into shape or make new fitness goals, maybe a personal trainer could help you. Today is National Personal Trainer Awareness Day, and there are many professionals across the Twin Ports just a phone call away. At Anytime Fitness in Duluth, they are still accepting new clients…

Post-holiday exercise options

9Round Fitness 30 minute Kickboxing might help knock you back into shape

DULUTH, Minn. – After the holidays is when most people start feeling like it’s time to hit the gym.A new kind of gym has opened up in Duluth recently. 9Round Fitness is a 30 minute kickboxing studio, where folks can work with a trainer, and have a slightly different workout experience than your typical gym. “The whole thing with kickboxing…

Adventure Zone busy during cold snap

Families look for inside fun thanks to these freezing temps

DULUTH, Minn. – With kids also out of school during this cold snap, cabin fever is also growing. Adventure Zone in Canal Park is a popular spot for kids and their families. It features all kinds of activities to keep those kid’s attention, and again, with the bitter cold outside, being inside is also a plus. “We have a two–level…

Duluth YMCA sees uptick in members during colder months

The YMCA offers a variety of activity to keep people active during the Northland's freezing season

DULUTH, Minn. – So many cold days in a row means its getting harder to stay active. FOX 21 spoke with the Duluth YMCA about what they’re doing to keep people up and active, and just staying warm during these frigid temps. “We have so much going on indoors, everything from our  rock climbing wall, we have two pools, lot…

Northland businesses prepare for New Year’s Eve celebrations

Liquor stores are sure to be busy this weekend

SUPERIOR, Wisc. –  Now that Christmas is out of the way, it’s time to start to think about those New Year’s Eve plans. Liquor stores are obviously a major stop for many people getting ready for the celebration. Stores are getting rid of the Christmas gifts sets to make room for the champagne. Employees say this time of year is…

Island Lake Inn Announces Closure

DULUTH, Minn. – The owner of the Island Lake Inn have announced they will be closing, effective immediately. According to a Facebook post on the restaurant’s page, they will open for one last day, which will be Sunday, Dec. 31. Owners cited a growing family and a military deployment of a manager as a few reasons they will be closing…

Keeping the Pack Taken Care Of

Packare was Founded Nearly Five Years Ago by Duluthian Alicia Skjoelsvold

DULUTH, Minn. – Everything but lions, tigers and bears help keep Alicia Skjoelsvold’s business alive. “Kitties, pocket pets, sugar gliders, guinea pigs, rabbits, bearded dragons,” said Skjoelsvold. “We do pet sitting and dog walking.” The native Duluthian decided five years ago to leave her dream job; reality had set in and routine became a bore. “This time of year we…

Open Restaurants Are Busy on Christmas

Cloud 9 Asian Bistro Says It's One of Their Busiest Days

DULUTH, Minn. – There aren’t very many businesses open on Christmas day, but some of the restaurants that are open say they have been very busy on the holiday. Cloud 9 Asian Bistro in Canal Park is serving up sushi, hibachi, and other specials all day. They say Christmas is one of their busiest nights of the year. “The last…

Last-minute shoppers pick out presents for pets

A Place for Fido was the place to be for dog-lovers this christmas

DULUTH, Minn. – People in Duluth were out in search of that one last thing on their list this Christmas Eve. A Place for Fido in the Fitger’s complex had folks coming in and picking up gifts for that special member of the family…the dogs! Co-owner Jamie Parent says pets always appreciate a good gift, and it can give them…

Adventure North MN Has Pop-Up Shop That Gives Back To the Environment

Adventure North has funded organizations $1,000

DULUTH, Minn. – Adventure North MN usually operates out of a enclosed trailer kind of like a food truck, but since it’s cold… they opened a pop–up shop outside Bent Paddle Brewing in Duluth. The clothing brand launched in June 2016 and 10 percent of sales goes back to different organizations in Minnesota that protect the environment. They’re currently working with Friends…

Earth Rider Brewery Partners With Duluth Coffee Co. For Coffee-Infused Pale Ale

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Earth Rider Brewery in Superior is collaborating with Duluth Coffee Company to create a coffee-infused pale ale. Brewer Allyson Rolph says it’s a process being done in a way that she has never experienced before. “They brought in some sample coffees and we tasted them and we built a beer around that,” Rolph said. “So we were…

Grizzly’s Canal Park To Become ‘310 Pub’

Owners Felt Grizzly's Business Model Was Outdated For Canal Park

DULUTH, Minn. –  After five years as Grizzly’s in Canal Park, the owners are shutting that business model down to open up a new pub in its place. It’s called 310 Pub. The menu will feature pub-style items like craft beer, apps, tacos, burgers and sandwiches. But the big change will be the entertainment, with corn hole, pool, darts, skeet…

Salvation Army Still Needs $120,000 to Reach Fundraising Goal

Free Christmas Trees Also Handed Out at Salvation Army Today

DULUTH, Minn.-The Salvation Army needs your help to reach its Red Kettle goal. As of this morning, they have raised $180,000 of their $300,000 goal. Staff said this annual fundraiser is vital to keeping the Salvation Army alive, which helps 15,000 Northlanders every year. “The Red Kettle campaign is the largest single fundraising effort that the Salvation Army does during…

Apple Admits iPhones Slow Down as They Get Older

(FOX News) — It’s not just your imagination. Your iPhone really does slow down as it becomes outdated. Apple iPhone users for years have wondered why their phone seems to go slow, compared with newer models. Apple is now reportedly admitting there is something to it. The lithium-ion battery starts to process information slower, the more times it’s charged. Usually, the slow down comes after…

Two Harbors High School Students to Host Civility Summit

DECA Program Creates Civility Summit for Community

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Two Harbors High School students are working together to create a better environment for Northlanders. The school’s DECA program has created a Civility Summit they’re hosting on Friday, January 26. This summit is open to schools throughout the Northland, local businesses and residents. So far, more than 600 Northlanders have been invited. Students say the goal…

Minnesota Unemployment Rates Drop to Lowest Level Since 2000

Duluth Has Seen an Increase of 1.5 Percent in Job Growth

DULUTH, Minn.-Minnesota’s unemployment rate fell to 3.1 percent in the month of November, the lowest it’s been since the year 2000. Trade, transportation, and utilities led all sectors in November with 2,300 new jobs.  Jobs in hospitality, manufacturing, and government have all dipped, however. “The overall number of unemployed Minnesotans fell below 100,000 last month for the first time since March…

WLSSD Treecycling Program Begins Dec. 21

"Treecycling drop off sites are conveniently located in many neighborhoods, providing the opportunity for residents to Treecycle quickly and easily," said Anderson.

DULUTH, Minn. – Western Lake Superior Sanitary District and partners have kicked off the annual Treecyling program. The program is to encourage area residents to recycle their fresh-cut holiday trees. Multiple locations will be available 24-hours a day throughout the region. “Holiday trees, like yard and garden waste, are banned from the trash in Minnesota,” said Karen Anderson, WLSSD’s director…

Altec Adding 100 Jobs in Duluth Location

Company Investing in $8.45 Million in Duluth Sites

DULUTH, Minn. –Altec Incorporated in Duluth is adding 100 jobs at its manufacturing facilities as they invest $8.45 million in an expansion there. Altec, which makes aerial lift trucks, is planning on purchasing new equipment and making other upgrades to its Northland operations. About 230 people are currently employed at their sites. “It’s very exciting to me to add to…

Busy Season for Candy Shops

National Hard Candy Day is Celebrated on Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Twin Ports – Candy lovers had the chance to splurge on their sweet tooth Tuesday. Tuesday, December 19 is National Hard Candy Day! The staff at Sweeden Sweets say now is one of their busiest times of the year with parents coming in the door looking for stocking stuffers and other sweet gifts to give. Hard candy first became popular…

Lake Superior Art Glass Gives Options for Creative Gifts

Artists Teach Several Glass Blowing Classes

DULUTH, Minn. – With less than a week until Christmas Day, it is time to finish Christmas gift shopping. Some local shops are happy to help with that. One in Duluth is Lake Superior Art Glass. Their gallery features the work of more than 60 artists. Classes are also offered for patrons. Currently, several classes are taught each week. Lake…

Duluth Pack Marks 135 Years in Business

Northland Uncovered: Duluth Pack

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland is full of history and stories of how the area was developed. One local company got its start helping the men who built the area. Duluth Pack is the oldest canvas and leather pack and bag maker in the United States. The company is now marking a milestone by celebrating 135 years in Duluth. The…

Experts Warn Pets are More Than Presents

Experts warn Northlanders a lot of work and money goes into taking care of a pet.

DULUTH, Minn.- Seeing a puppy under a Christmas tree might be exciting but local veterinarians want to remind Northlanders, a pet is for life not just for Christmas. Experts told FOX21 gifting a pet as a surprise is not a responsible idea. The owner should be apart of the process by picking out a breed that fits their lifestyle. “What breed…

Twitter Suspends White Nationalists As It Enforces New Rules

NEW YORK (AP) — Twitter suspended the accounts of well-known white nationalists Monday, moving swiftly to enforce its new rules aimed at reducing what it deems abusive content. The account of far-right group Britain First, a small group that regularly posts inflammatory videos purporting to show Muslims engaged in acts of violence, was among the first to go dark. The…

Epic Restaurant and Lounge Announces It Will Close Saturday

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Epic Restaurant and Lounge announced they will be closing the restaurant on Saturday, Dec. 23. The announcement came on their Facebook page Monday. “Unfortunately, for both business and personal reasons we find that we need to close our doors to regular dining business on the close of business on Saturday evening, 12/23/17,” the Facebook post stated. Epic…

Last Days to Vote for Christmas Light Displays

Lighting Challenge Winners Announced Friday

DULUTH, Minn. – With one week until Christmas, snow on the ground, lights on homes and decorations in yards, it’s not hard to tell many Northlanders are in the holiday spirit. One tradition keeping that spirit thriving is the Christmas Lighting Challenge. The challenge is put on by A Sweet Event and this year more than 80 homes are involved….

Johnson’s Bakery Preparing for Holiday Rush

Johnson's Bakery Has Been a Part of the Northland for 72 Years

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s an increase of busy bakeries in the Northland this time of year. One of those bakeries happens to be Johnson’s Bakery in West Duluth. For the past 72 years, Johnson’s has been a staple in many Northland homes. Owner Scott Johnson and his staff are busy every day mixing up and baking thousands of cookies and…

APEX Donates Winter Gear to Working Students

Northland students are receiving hands on experience out in wintry conditions.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.-  Northland high school students are working on a construction project, but with the temperatures getting chillier a local group of business leaders are ensuring students have the necessities. Members of the Area Partnership for Economic Expansion donated winter gear to students in the construction technology program. The students are working in the Northland’s wintry conditions. The bibs, gloves and…

What is Net Neutrality and Why Does it Matter?

NEW YORK (AP) — “Net neutrality” regulations, designed to prevent internet service providers like Verizon, AT&T, Comcast and Charter from favoring some sites and apps over others, are on the chopping block. On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission plans to vote on a proposal that would not only undo the Obama-era rules that have been in place since 2015, but…

Disney Buying Large Part of 21st Century Fox in $52.4B Deal

TALI ARBEL - AP

(AP) NEW YORK (AP) — Disney is buying the Murdoch family’s Fox movie and television studios and some cable and international TV businesses for about $52.4 billion, as the home of Mickey Mouse tries to meet competition from technology companies in the entertainment business. Disney’s all-stock deal for 21st Century Fox gives it the studios behind Avatar, “The Simpsons” and…

Spirits High At Spirit Mountain With Strong Start To Winter

DULUTH, Minn. – The blast snow on Wednesday and continued cold air are a welcomed signs for Spirit Mountain after a few tough and mild winters. Executive Director Brandy Ream said the mountain’s winter operations are moving into its fifth weekend. She says that’s one of the earliest season openings and comes with an uptick in season passes. “We’re lining…

Northland Family Starts Tree Stand in West Duluth

Kimberly and Darren Powell Have Always Wanted to Start Emmanuel Evergreens, Now It's a Dream Come True

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’re still looking for the perfect Christmas tree to bring home to your living room, one family in the Northland is looking to help. Kimberly and Darren Powell along with their children have chosen to start up a Christmas tree stand this year. Kimberly says she wants families to have the picture perfect experience when picking…

Dealing With Dementia During the Holidays

Experts told FOX 21 it's important for businesses and families to be aware and helpful.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Gathering with family during the holidays is exciting but can be hectic for those suffering with dementia. Experts told FOX 21 make sure your festive gathering is a safe space. Ensure that there is plenty of lighting and be supportive. “Being overwhelmed can cause them to have more issues, maybe being overwhelmed or frustrated when trying to remember…