Business

Original Coney Island Sold, New Restaurant Moving In

DULUTH, Minn. — The historic Original Coney Island on East Superior Street has been sold after more than 90 years of serving hungry customers. On Wednesday, signs and décor inside the restaurant were off the walls as a transformation is underway for a new restaurant. The name of the new tenant, Martha’s Daughter, was created in 2014, according to its…

Imagine Duluth 2035 Looking For Different Ways Of Commuting Around Town

Focus Group Looks Into Possible Lake Ave Overpass Change

DULUTH, Minn. – Congestion on Lake Avenue from those trying to access Canal Park from Superior Street has become a growing concern for the city of Duluth. A focus group met tonight to talk about 6 different proposed policies that would better forms of transportation in different parts of the city. The focus group, which is part of the Imagine…

Minnesota Power Announces Plans for Natural Gas Plant in Superior

The $700 million plant would be built along the Nemadji River in Superior's industrial corridor

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Minnesota Power announced some big plans that would bring a $700 million natural gas power plant to Superior. If approved by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, the proposed Nemadji Trail Energy Center would start construction as early as 2020 and come online in 2025. The project would bring hundreds of construction and industry jobs, 26 full0time plant…

Ely Municipal Airport Receives Over $80,000 for Improvements

ELY, Minn. – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, along with Rep. Rick Nolan announced a major grant for the Ely Municipal Airport. The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the airport a grant of $82,581 for infrastructure improvements. “Municipal airports, such as the Ely Municipal Airport, support good-paying jobs and safe, efficient travel in our part of Minnesota,”…

Friends of Animals Now Open, Seeking Donations in New Location

Donations Highly Encouraged at Friends of Animals as Humane Society Starts Fresh in New Location

CLOQUET, Minn. – After being closed for nearly one month, staff and volunteers at Friends of Animals Humane Society in Cloquet are opening up the doors to a new location. While the excitement is high, funding is still needed to reach the final goal. Right now, there’s a kingdom of condos being built; condos housing herds of cute kittens. “We…

Meeting Held to Address Proposed Minnesota Power Rate Increase

Citizens Utility Board Held Session to Discuss Rate Details

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Power has proposed rate increases that would affect customers across the Northland. The Citizens Utility Board held an information session to let people know what the impact of the rate hike could be, and how customers can voice their concerns. “The rate increases are quite significant, especially, more so on low-income people and it impacts their…

North Shore Adventure Park Enters Phase One

Four Investors Break Ground on Multiphase Adventure Park in Silver Bay

SILVER BAY, Minn. – Monday was the end of an era for one decades old pit stop on the North Shore. The old Spur gas station off of Highway 61 in Silver Bay is now demolished, making way for new opportunity. Four developers are now climbing toward new adventures, hoping the community and tourists will enjoy the development. “It just needs…

Lake Superior Zoo Names Interim CEO

New exective has background of nonprofit leadership

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lake Superior Zoo announced today that it has hired an interim CEO. Dave Benson will serve as interim CEO at the Lake Superior Zoo, following seven years as executive director and three years as development director at the Daminao Center in Duluth. “Dave brings years of knowledge running an important local non-profit organization, including strategic planning,…

Two Harbors Science Lab Brings High-Tech Jobs To The Northland

BRTI Life Sciences Creates and Sells Products Used for Stem Cell Research

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – A science lab in Two Harbors is on the cutting edge of some important bio-medical work. BRTI Life Sciences is having success with their Stem Cell related technology. The lab creates and sells products other companies use for cell research. In the process, BRTI is bringing high-tech jobs to Northern Minnesota. Their Cell Mate devices are…

Volunteers Needed For Local Fire Departments

Be Somebody Campaign In Brule Looks For Recruits

Brule, Wis. – As part of the “Be Somebody” campaign, more than 30 volunteer fire departments throughout North West Wisconsin came together in Brule. No matter what day, or the time in the day it is. If you’re a volunteer first responder and duty calls, you drop everything and head out the door. “I’ve had to walk away from games…

Small Business Open House In Superior

Construction Is Taking A Toll

Superior, Wis. – Small businesses in downtown superior are doing anything possible to get patrons in the door. Construction on U.S. highway 2 has begun to take a toll on small businesses in the area. Today an open house was held by multiple businesses near the intersection of Belknap and Tower. With many of them holding raffle prizes as a…

Traveling Sauna Visits Duluth

Celebrating Finland's 100th Year Of Independence From Russia

Duluth, Minn. – During all of 2017 Finland is celebrating the country’s centennial birthday after gaining independence from Russia in 1917. As part of Finland’s 100th birthday, the traveling sauna will continue to travel the United States visiting cities and towns with a high finish population today the sauna made a stop in Duluth. ”It’s really cool to be up…

National Donut Day with Johnson’s Bakery

Happy National Donut Day! Each year on the first Friday in June, people participate in Donut Day, honoring the Salvation Army women who served donuts to soldiers during WWI. In 1917, the original Salvation Army doughnut was first served. Home cooked foods provided by brave volunteers proved to be a morale booster for troops serving overseas. Johnson’s Bakery joined us…

Jack Link’s Crew Excited for “Hometown” Show

The Screamin' Sasquatch Performs at Shows Across the Country

DULUTH, Minn. – To John Klatt, Summer is air show season.  But this week, this pilot is on cloud nine. “I feel like I’m home when  I come back to Duluth,” Klatt said. Klatt flew F–16’s for the 148th Fighter Wing out of Duluth for 14 years.  Now he flies the Jack Link’s Screamin’ Sasquatch, a one of a kind…

Visit Duluth Moves to New Office

The Company Hopes to Open on Friday, or Early Next Week

DULUTH, Minn.- Visit Duluth is officially moved into their new office. Visit Duluth used to be in a building owned by Minnesota Power, but after Minnesota Power announced they were expanding their clean energy department, Visit Duluth decided to move buildings. It’s taken a few months for Visit Duluth find a space and make the move, but now they are…

Blue Angels Arrive in Duluth

Navy Demonstration Squadron to Appear at Duluth Air and Aviation Expo

DULUTH, Minn. – If you heard loud noises coming from the sky Thursday afternoon, it was likely the Blue Angels. The U.S. Navy’s demonstration squadron arrived for this year’s Duluth Air and Aviation Expo. The Blue Angels started in the 1940’s and appear at air shows across the country from March to November.  Pilots and flight crews rotate regularly, but…

Downtown Engwalls Location Closes Its Doors

Florist Still Open in Hermantown and Superior

DULUTH, Minn. – Downtown Duluth shoppers may have noticed the Engwall’s Flowers on Superior Street is closed. The downtown shop actually closed last week, but both the Superior and Hermantown locations are still open. Engwall’s owner says closing downtown doesn’t mean his business is struggling. “It’s just an acknowledgment of how things are changing in the marketplace, especially I think…

School Board Approves Funding for Repairs

District will Borrow $4.3 Million Through Bonds

DULUTH, Minn. – At Tuesday’s meeting, the Duluth School Board approved a new long term maintenance plan. Two projects were added; repairs at Rockridge Elementary to prepare for Woodland Hills moving in, and replacing rubber mulch on school playgrounds. To pay for the projects, the district needs to borrow $4.3 million through bonds to be paid back in five years. …

Crabby Ol’ Bill’s Opens Friday With New Owners

DULUTH, Minn. – The iconic Crabby Ol’ Bill’s eatery in Canal Park is possibly a little less crabby right now because it’s opening Friday and under new ownership. The popular hot spot has gotten rotted wood fixed up, along with fresh paint and a deep cleaning inside where all those famous mini donuts are made. “Our company, Titanium Partners, is…

Only 2 Apply For Open Superior City Council Seat

Seat Was Graham Garfield's Who Resigned

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The application deadline is over in Superior, and two candidates are officially in the running to be appointed to the former council seat of Graham Garfield who resigned. Tylor Elm handed in 232 signatures of support with his application. Elm lost to Garfield in a recent election by one vote. The other candidate is Kara Schmidt who…

Duluth-Superior Film Festival Kicks Off

All Movies Can Be Seen For Free

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth–Superior Film Festival kicked off the first of five days of film, music and arts Wednesday. Wednesday night’s film was shown at Clyde Iron Works called Rumble, which is a documentary about the role of Native Americans in popular music history. The festival concentrates on movies shot and produced right here in our region. Many of…

Two Non-Profits in Duluth Receive Grants from St. Louis County Family Service Collaborative

DULUTH, Minn. – Two non-profit agencies in Duluth that serve children and families have been chosen to receive significant grants from the South St. Louis County Family Service Collaborative. The YWCA Duluth will receive $225,000 and the Lincoln Park Children and Family Collaborative will receive $25,000. Recipients took part in a comprehensive application process and were chosen based on their…

Judge Rules in Favor of Homemade Baked Goods Sales

DARLINGTON, Wis. (AP) -A Wisconsin judge has overturned a ban on selling homemade baked goods in the state. Lafayette County Judge Duane Jorgenson ruled Wednesday afternoon in favor of three women who’d challenged a state law they say made it impossible for home bakers to legally sell their treats. Jorgenson said in his oral ruling the ban primarily serves business…

United Taconite Officially Reopens

Officials Cut Ribbon on Facility Producing Mustang Pellets

FORBES, Minn. – Lawmakers and officials from Cliff’s Natural Resources had reason to celebrate, as they cut the ribbon on the re-opened United Taconite facility. “We are truly celebrating here today the largest producer of iron ore pellets in North America sending a brand new mustang pellet to the largest blast furnace in the United States,” said Sen. Amy Klobuchar…

60+ Chipotle Locations in Minnesota Hit by Payment Card Malware, Duluth Included

The incident took place over several weeks before the company removed it

DULUTH, Minn – Denver-based company, Chipotle, has provided specific time frames for more than 60 Minnesota locations, after the company was struck with malware that was designed to access payment card data. In a statement, the company stated the completion of an investigation with law enforcement, payment card networks, and leading cyber security firms. Chipotle indicated that during the investigation…

Duluth Lawmakers’ Hard Work Helps Local Projects Make State Bonding Bill

The bonding bill includes more than $80 million in funding for many big Duluth projects

DULUTH, Minn. – State lawmakers wrapped up a special legislative session by passing a state budget and a nearly billion dollar bonding bill. With the bill awaiting Governor Dayton’s signature, local lawmakers are calling this session a success for projects in Duluth and northeast Minnesota. “There was a lot of uncertainty, so we worked really hard the last few days…

Adventure Park Now Open at Spirit Mountain

Summer Adventures Begin Memorial Day Weekend at Spirit Mountain

DULUTH, Minn. – Spirit Mountain in Duluth is now back open for business as we head into the Memorial Day weekend. The Mountain’s Adventure Park opened gates Friday for the Alpine Coaster, zip line, jumping pillow, mini golf and disk golf. Five mountain bike trails are now open as well. Executive Director Brandy Ream tells FOX 21 she’s optimistic going…

Workout Group Provides Fitness & Support for Northland Mothers

Active Adventures: Stroller Strides

DULUTH, Minn. – Moms around the country are encouraging each other to be healthy through a group fitness program. Fit4Mom is a nationwide program with a branch here in the Twin Ports. The goal is to support moms through every step of motherhood. The company offers several classes: Stroller Strides Stroller Barre Body Back Fit4Baby Running Club For this week’s…

Minnesota Legislature passes $46B budget in special session

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota’s Legislature has finished passing a $46 billion budget in a special session. It took three extra days and some horse-trading to win crucial Democratic votes. But the Republican-controlled Legislature passed its final budget bills early Friday morning. The overtime began Tuesday morning after lawmakers passed the constitutionally mandated deadline to finish a budget by…

Major Cuts At Northland College

Millions To Be Scaled Back Affecting Sports And All Employees

Ashland, Wis. In a letter sent out to Northland College students and staff by the board of trustees will hit the pocket books of many. The school is making some big budget cuts totaling around 3.5 million dollars. Many areas of the school will see some type of cuts, affecting some athletes and 100% of the schools employees. As of…

ReUSE Minnesota Explores Duluth Network

Group has been Operating in the Twin Cities Since 2012

DULUTH, Minn. – A successful Twin cities re-use program Is coming to the Twin Ports. Representatives from ReUSE Minnesota and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency met with local re-use businesses to create a network to share resources. Officials say they’re targeting businesses like thrift stores, habitat restores, and consignment shops. “These are the stores that allow the rest of us…

IRRRB Announces Ilmenite Breakthrough

New Processing Method Produces Nearly Pure Samples

DULUTH, Minn. – Officials from the University of Minnesota’s Natural Resources Research Institute announced a breakthrough in ilmentite processing Thursday. NRRI partnered with Canadian firm Process Research Ortech to find a way to separate titanum dioxide and iron oxide from ilmenite deposits. The results, nearly pure samples of both titanium oxide and iron oxide.  But, officials say they’re a long…

EMS Workers Treated to Cookout

St. Luke's Emergency Department Thanked its EMS Partners

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s Emergency Department said thanks to EMS workers with lunch Thursday. Burgers and hot dogs were on the menu, as the first respsonders were treated to a cookout in the hospital’s emergency garage. The director of St. Luke’s Emergency Department says he and his staff appreciate everything EMS does. “We are fortunate in this region to…

Part 2: Downtown Duluth: What’s Next?

DULUTH, Minn. – In Part 2 of a special report, Downtown Duluth: What’s Next?, you’ll meet a new generation of business developers who are determined to make their mart on West Superior Street – all during a time when the retail industry is feeling the pressure of online shopping an e-commerce.  FOX 21’s Dan Hanger reports. A renaissance, a boom,…

South Pier Inn Celebrates 15 Years

Staff Attributes Their Success To The Relationships Built Over The Years

Duluth, Minn. The South Pier Inn celebrated 15 years in business today. The hotel that’s located just feet away from the aerial lift bridge is known for its pristine views of the canal. The staff attributes their success to the relationships built over the years. “We’ve really gained so wonderful friendships and relationships with our guest. During that time we’ve…

Earth Rider Brewery Set To Break Ground In Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A well-known Twin Ports brewer and owner of the Cedar Lounge in Superior is moving closer to opening a brewery. The signage for Earth Rider Brewery is now up on the Cedar Lounge building on North Tower Avenue. Owner Tim Nelson says construction for the brewery will begin around June 1 at the neighboring building. Equipment will…

“I’m a Tourist Too” Training Session Readies Businesses for Summer

Customer Service Workers Had a Chance to Brush Up on Their Skills Before Tourist Season

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth businesses got a chance to brush up on their customer service skills before kicking off the tourist season. Duluth has six to seven million visitors every year which makes the hospitality business vital to the local economy. Customer service workers got a special free training session today to help them get ready for summer. The Duluth…

Gardeners Hoping for Warmer Planting Conditions

Bending Birches Greenhouses has seen some eager gardeners, but the cold, rainy weather has impacted sales

DULUTH, Minn. – Below average conditions around the Northland have led to a slow start to planting season. Bending Birches Greenhouses opened up May 1st and have seen some eager gardeners, but overall the weather has impacted sales. Jahn Hibbs, the greenhouse manager and grower at Bending Birches says it’s best to wait until the first week of June, when…

Pet Insurance Increasing in Popularity

Local Farmers Insurance Agent Shares Importance of Pet Policies

DULUTH, Minn. – Health insurance has been a hot topic for months now as lawmakers look to improve our healthcare system. But, what about our furry friends? We often forget about the possibilities of dreaded medical bills when taking our pets to the veterinarian. “I don’t think people know about it yet,” said Patrick Shelton, Farmers Insurance Agent in Duluth, Minnesota….

Part 1: Downtown Duluth — What’s Next?

DULUTH, Minn. – Major changes are beginning to unfold in downtown Duluth as investors and city leaders work to keep the area progressive. In Part 1 of a special report, FOX 21’s Dan Hanger takes a look at the changing retail industry downtown as the buyer habits of consumers continue to shift online. There’s no denying downtown Duluth is on…

Minnesota Lawmakers Push to Finalize Budget Deal

Lawmakers Doubtful Deal will Pass; Look Toward Special Session

ST. PAUL, Minn. – One-hundred twenty days have passed since the Minnesota Legislature first started work on the state’s budget bill. Monday evening the clock is ticking before the state constitution calls for a deal to be reached or the session will end without an agreement in place, resulting in a special session. “It’s compromise and it’s democracy and it’s…

Minnesota lawmakers enter final day to wrap up budget

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota lawmakers are down to their last day to wrap up several major budget bills to avoid needing extra time to finish the work of the legislative session. The House and Senate reached deals late Sunday on water buffers to pass an environment bill and agreed on funding for colleges and universities over objections from…

Safety and Preparedness Tips for Outdoor Activities

The Duluth Experience Starts New Tours for Summer Season

DULUTH, Minn. – When venturing onto the water or onto a hiking trail, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Dave Grandmaison, Co-Founder and CEO for The Duluth Experience, says you need to have the right tools when going in the woods or on the water in case something goes wrong. Grandmaison says the best thing you can do is…

Local Businesses Hold “Duluth Made” Event

Pop-Up Market Hosted By Evolve Duluth Featured Local Vendors

DULUTH, Minn. – Local businesses were brightening up this gloomy day with what’s known as a “Duluth Made” event. Artists, creators, small business owners and more all showcased their talents at this unique pop-up market. The event was hosted by Evolve Duluth and spread out throughout the studio space in the old City Hall Building on East Superior Street. “Being…

$5 Book Sale At Gabriel’s Book Store

Shoppers Fill Their Bag With As Many Books As They Can

DULUTH, Minn. – A unique sale had books flying off shelves at Duluth’s Gabriel’s Book Store. For just 5 dollars shoppers could cram as many books as possible into a large paper bag. All the money raised goes to St. Michael’s Church. Gabriel’s specializes in old and used books. Plus there are plenty of kids’ books and records at affordable…