Business

Management Of Bayfront Festival Park Set To Return To DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — Management of Duluth’s premier entertainment venue, Bayfront Festival Park, is headed back to the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center for the next five years if the council signs off on Monday. For the last year, Winterfell Management has handled all promotions, productions and management of Bayfront with a one-year agreement with the city. Newly elected Mayor Roger Reinert…

City Of Duluth’s Largest Employee Union Authorizes Strike Mid-January If Needed

DULUTH, Minn. – The city of Duluth’s largest employee union, AFSCME Local 66, voted Tuesday to authorize a strike, demanded “fair wages and dignity” and called on Mayor Roger Reinert to fix it. AFSCME called the city’s next contract offer “insulting, inadequate and unacceptable,” according to a news release. The union said the police and fire departments got 8% market…

Former Central HS Site to become $500 Million Housing Development

The groundbreaking of 'Incline Village' comes 13 years after the school's controversial closure, and a period of vacancy

DULUTH, Minn. – After sitting largely dormant for years, the wheels have begun turning on a development plan for the former Central High School site. Incline Village’s groundbreaking, today, at the former site of Central High School marks the beginning of the second-largest private development in the city’s history. Developers and city officials gathered at the site today to mark…

‘Chicken And Whaaat?!’ Opens In West Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.–‘Chicken and Whaaat?!’ is now open in West Duluth. The Hansen family is behind the new eatery and responsible for restaurants like Duluth Grill, Corktown Deli, and OMC Smokehouse. Chicken and Whaaat?! is located in the former Charley’s Cheesesteaks at 231 North Central Avenue. The new business specializing in chicken tenders and six different sandwich options, with quick service…

Scores Released For Top 5 Finalists Of Duluth’s Next Tourism Marketing Contract

Council to vote for or against Madden Media of Arizona at Monday night's city council meeting (Dec. 9)

DULUTH, Minn. — We now know the scores for the top five marketing agencies that applied for Duluth’s next multi-million dollar tourism marketing contract. Below are the scores based off a 100-point scale: Madden Media of Arizona: 81.65 Hailey Sault of Duluth: 78.31 AIMCLEAR of Duluth: 78.29 Lawrence & Schiller of South Dakota: 75.20 Swim Creative of Duluth: 73.55 Any…

Stolen Ruby Slippers Worn By Judy Garland In ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Auctioned For $28M

  MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A pair of iconic ruby slippers that were worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” and stolen from a museum nearly two decades ago sold for a winning bid of $28 million at auction Saturday. Heritage Auctions had estimated that they would fetch $3 million or more, but the fast-paced bidding far outpaced that…

Finishing Touches on the 8th Annual Winter Village at the DECC

DULUTH, Minn.– It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the DECC, as they prepare for their 8th annual winter village weekend. Taking inspiration from European winter villages the DECC is excited to bring this back for another year. This year, they’re introducing their tinsel tavern, where you can immerse yourself in a Christmas wonderland. In addition, they’re featuring…

New $16.5M Snowmaking Operation At Giants Ridge

BIWABIK, Minn. — 74 new automated snow machines are now operating at Giants Ridge in Biwabik as part of a $16.5-million dollar investment there. A small ceremony was held on Thursday, Dec. 5, to celebrate. The new snow-making system is weather controlled turning on and off automatically for optimal snow production based on optimal air conditions. The 74 new snow…

‘Tinsel Tavern’ to Shine at Duluth Winter Village

DULUTH, Minn. — This year’s Duluth Winter Village at the DECC is expanding to include a Tinsel Tavern. The tavern includes 1,000 feet of tinsel, 600 feet of wrapping paper and 36 strings of lights.  As for the tavern, Vikre Distillery will be creating holiday cocktails and mocktails, like a Gingerbread Old Fashion. The Winter Village is Saturday and Sunday…

Trump Vows To Block Japanese Steelmaker From Buying US Steel

President-elect Donald Trump is underscoring his intention to block the purchase of U.S. Steel by Japanese steelmaker Nippon Steel Corp., and he’s pledging to use tax incentives and tariffs to strengthen the iconic American steelmaker. Trump said during the campaign that he would “instantaneously” block the deal, and he reiterated that sentiment in a Monday night statement. President Joe Biden…

4th Annual Holiday Decor Sale at Boulder Lake ELC

DULUTH, Minn.– Boulder Lake is also taking advantage of holiday sales by using materials on their property. For 4 years now, Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center has sold homemade wreathes, porch pots, and even kits to make your very own wreath. This is the largest fundraiser for that Boulder Lake hosts every year. They use freshly harvested material to create…

CASDA Launches ‘Give the Gift of Healing’ Silent Auction

SUPERIOR, Wis.– In Superior, there’s an opportunity to help victims and survivors of abuse though the “Give the Gift of Healing” fundraiser. The virtual silent auction goes live on Black Friday. CASDA is a clinic in Superior that helps victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. Funds raised through this event will help support the shelter’s operations as they…

Duluth Bridgeman’s Offering Thanksgiving Meals To-Go

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Bridgeman’s is once again offering Thanksgiving meals to go. A meal includes fresh baked turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, roasted vegetables, a dinner roll, and dessert. All meals are fully cooked and ready to reheat at home. These meals are great for those who don’t have somewhere to go or just don’t feel like cooking a whole…

CAO: Arizona Firm’s Win For Duluth’s Tourism Marketing Is ‘Tremendously Fair’; Local Finalist Disagrees

In March, Mayor Roger Reinert said he believed Duluth talent was best to tell Duluth's story.

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Chief Administrative Officer David Montgomery talked publicly Sunday for the first time since the Star Tribune broke the news Friday that a committee he appointed had chosen an Arizona firm to handle Duluth’s next multi-million-dollar tourism marketing contract – something Mayor Roger Reinert said earlier in the year should be handled by Duluth talent. “We feel…

Pink Friday Celebrates Women Owned Small Businesses

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Women owned small businesses are being celebrated over in Superior. It is all part of Pink Friday. This nationwide event takes place annually the Friday before Black Friday encouraging shoppers to shop local ahead of the holidays. This is the 2nd year the Superior Business Improvement District is celebrating this day with many deals and discounts. There…

Superior Meats Processing Deer for 2024 Season

SUPERIOR, Wis.– After hunting is over, the question of what to do with your deer harvest often comes to mind. Superior Meats is excited to cater to the hunters and help them produce venison products. Some of those products, you wouldn’t initially expect. “Make it into whatever you’re looking for. Whether it be bratwurst, summer sausage, bacon. We do a…

2024 Deer Hunting Season Begins in Wisconsin

  SUPERIOR, Wis.– Deer hunting is a beloved Midwest tradition that brings families together year after year. “My husband, son and I hunt together. You know, they’re not quite in the area, that’s real important too. You know, I’m really looking forward to it,” said Pat Kukull, owner of Superior Shooter Supply. Many enthusiastic hunters, counting down the days until…

Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce Reflects on 2024

HERMANTOWN, Minn.– The Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce recognized and celebrated volunteers, members, and efforts of this year. Around 200 members gathered at today’s celebration got an overall look to the 2024 year — the successes from businesses in Hermantown, Proctor, Duluth, and Rice Lake. There are now 300 Chamber of Commerce members. A slide show recognized all of the…

Update: Duluth Tourism Marketing Finalist Chosen; Name Announced Dec. 5

DULUTH, Minn. (Nov. 21) — The city of Duluth announced Thursday that a special selection committee has determined its finalist for Duluth’s next two-year tourism marketing contract. The top-scoring finalist will be announced at a committee of the whole meeting on Dec. 5 before the council makes a vote to deny or approve during the council meeting Dec. 9. The…

Superior Meats Prepping for Thanksgiving

DULUTH, Minn.– It’s getting down to crunch time when it comes to getting ready for Thanksgiving, and Superior Meats is getting ready for the big day. Thanksgiving will be here before you know it, and staying on top of your turkey plan is key for a happier, stress-free holiday. Superior Meats will be rolling out the fresh turkeys on Thursday…

Keeping Tabs on Tire Safety for Winter

DULUTH, Minn.– It’s beginning to feel a lot like winter, and it’s never too early to prepare your car for the ice and snow. With the unpredictable Midwest winters, checking out your car’s tires and making sure they’re safe is crucial for a smooth winter. Discount Tire in Duluth is hard at work to help change tires seeing 24 cars…

First Bookstore in 17 Years Opens in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis.– After nearly two decades, the first bookstore in Superior recently opened their doors. The lack of bookstores in the area sparked owner Maria Lockwood to take the leap and open up Foxes and Fireflies. The shop opened up back in October of this year and they’re located at the Superior Business Improvement building. Foxes and Fireflies is homing…

Wildcat Sanctuary Expands Both Acres and Residents

SANDSTONE, Minn.– Lately, there’s a lot to be excited about at the Wildcat Sanctuary in Sandstone. The Wildcat Sanctuary recently expanded from 80 acres to 200 acres, when they were able to buy 120 acres of additional land. The Wildcat Sanctuary does not have any plans for the new space. They are using the additional land as a buffer for…

Decades-Old Barko Hydraulics Shutting Down In Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – FOX 21 learned Monday that a decades-long manufacturing facility in Superior is shutting down. Barko Hydraulics is located on Banks Avenue. Employees found out Monday morning by mail that they are to not return to the office and are terminated Dec. 1. Barko President Justin Rupar said in the letter to employees that Superior’s operations are being…

Spirit Airlines Files For Bankruptcy As Financial Losses Pile Up And Debt Payments Loom

(AP) — Spirit Airlines said Monday that it has filed for bankruptcy protection and will attempt to reboot as it struggles to recover from the pandemic-caused swoon in travel, stiffer competition from bigger carriers, and a failed attempt to sell the airline to JetBlue. Spirit, the biggest U.S. budget airline, filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition after working out terms…

Hucklebeary Gift Shop is Ready for the Holidays

DULUTH, Minn. — Despite the Twin Ports looking more like a cool Autumn Day, stores are wasting no time bringing out the holiday selections. Hucklebeary located on East Superior Street in Duluth is catering to all of the upcoming holidays. The gift shop has Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations out. A few items include advent calendars, ornaments, and greeting cards. Employees…

‘Rocket Deli’ To Open In Heart Of Downtown Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – A taste of New York is coming to downtown Duluth. The Rocket Deli is under construction right now at the corner of East Superior Street and 2nd Avenue, in the former T-Icy Roll location and next to Blacklist Brewery. The windows were covered Wednesday with the deli’s menu, which includes Rueben, Italian and pastrami sandwiches, along with…

WI Agency Issues First Round Of Permits For Enbridge Line 5 Reroute Around Reservation

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Enbridge’s contentious plan to reroute an aging pipeline around a northern Wisconsin tribal reservation moved closer to reality Thursday after the company won its first permits from state regulators. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources officials announced they have issued construction permits for the Line 5 reroute around the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa’s reservation….

Lake Superior Brewing Celebrates 30-Year Anniversary

DULUTH, Minn. — Lake Superior Brewing is celebrating its 30-year anniversary in style. One of Duluth’s longest running breweries is hosting different festivities each day this week. Opening back in 1994, Lake Superior Brewing serves up various drinks. Back in 2020 a couple took over the reigns of the brewery and have found success at a new location near Lester…

Wisconsin Workforce Event Teaches Business Leaders About Artificial Intelligence

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Wisconsin business leaders, got involved in the discussion of Artificial Intelligence on Wednesday as a forum, a part of the Winning with Wisconsin Workforce series was held in Superior. The Northwest Wisconsin Workforce Investment Board and Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development hosted the event. It brought small and large business leaders across different industries together. People shared firsthand…

First Duluth Chick-Fil-A Opens Nov. 14

DULUTH, Minn.– A popular fast-food chicken restaurant will finally be opening its doors in Duluth on Nov. 14. A team of 120 workers are part of the Chick-Fil-A location in the Miller Hill Mall parking lot. The menu features signature chicken sandwiches, chicken nuggets, salads, and waffle fries. Chick-Fil-A will also be serving customers early in the morning. “So, we’re…

Sofidel Paper Company Begins Expansion

DULUTH, Minn.– Sofidel ,the paper company that took over the paper mill along I-35 is getting an expansion. Construction for 200-million-dollar project started two weeks ago. The former Verso building used to produce paper to make magazines, and newspapers. But now, with Sofidel, they switched over to tissue and toilet paper production. With the expansion, the company will get an…

Trump to Nominate Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida to be Attorney General

Associated Press WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday said he will nominate Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida to serve as his attorney general, putting a loyalist in the role of the nation’s top prosecutor. In selecting the congressman, Trump passed over some of the more established attorneys whose names had been mentioned as being…

A Thanksgiving Staple Is Back At Shamrock Pizza

SUPERIOR, Wis. — We are just a couple weeks from Thanksgiving, and for one Northland Pizza Parlor it’s their busiest time of the year. Shamrock Pizza in Superior has been offering their Thanksgiving Pizza since 2016. The customer favorite is requested year-round, but November is the only month that hungry fans can try this creative combination for themselves. “We would…

St. Louis County Landfill Unveils Geothermal Field

VIRGINIA, Minn.– St. Louis County’s landfill got a new first-of-its kind technology in the state that creates new energy from garbage. A ribbon cutting was held today in Virginia at the site of the landfill’s new 10-acre geo-thermal field. The field has a specialized liner with coils at its base. Heat produced through decomposing garbage will now be captured in…

DECC Hosts 12th Annual Junk Hunt

DULUTH, Minn.– Over 150 vendors are gathering at the DECC to sell their antiques, treats and trinkets. The event draws in junk hunters near and far. With some of the booths selling heavy furniture, the junk hunt has their team of “junk hunks” in orange shirts to help load those items. “We started with like half a dozen vendors back…

Chum Preps Thanksgiving Boxes

DULUTH, Minn. — Chum is preparing for the holidays by packing Thanksgiving boxes. Staff, volunteers, and community members gathered Thursday to work together on this project. The boxes will be given out to locals who rely on Chum’s food assistance services. Each box includes the essential items for a traditional Thanksgiving meal, from pantry staples to holiday favorites. “Thanksgiving is…