Health

Winter Blues Setting in? Dietitian Advises Three Superfoods to Consume

St. Luke's Clinical Dietitian Mary Cherne Offers Tips to Keeping Your Spirits High Throughout Winter

DULUTH, Minn. – When it comes to the winter blues, it’s important to have the correct diet and exercise routine to help keep depression at bay. Mary Cherne, St. Luke’s Clinical Dietitian, encourages a diet high in vitamin D, omega 3 fatty acids and fruits and vegetables. Cherne wants to encourage physical activity on a daily basis to help boost…

Superior Considering Medical Tourism Option to Save on Healthcare Costs

City looking to contain costs that reached nearly $6 million in 2018

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Healthcare cost the City of Superior nearly $6 million in 2018. Now, the city is looking at some new ways to contain those costs, including adding a medical tourism option to their employee health plan. Superior City Councilor Craig Sutherland traveled to Mexico last month for a stem cell procedure to treat his MS. “It was great,…

CHUM Kicks Off Minnesota Food Share March in Duluth

Campaign aims to restock CHUM from Holidays.

DULUTH, Minn.- CHUM kicked off the Minnesota Food Share March Campaign with a goal of raising $115,000 and 35,000 lbs of food. The campaign aims to restock food shelves across the state in March. Many of which, like CHUM, are running low on supplies donated during the holiday season. CHUM says the disadvantaged population has increased in Duluth recently, making…

City Council Approves St. Luke’s Helipad Move

Old parking lot being turned into new helipad.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth City Council has approved the move of Saint Luke’s helipad as the hospital continues to look to expand. Citizens had previously expressed concern about the noise caused by the new location. The resolution also approves the hospitals plans for the reconstruction of its parking deck, including an ambulance garage on East Second Street, where the new helipad would…

More Snow Means More Chiropractic Appointments

Local Chiropractic offices see increased fall and shovel injuries.

DULUTH, Minn.- The snow hasn’t let up across the Northland, and with more on the way, it can get treacherous to navigate. Area chiropractors have sen an increase in business due to falls and injuries. They shared with us some tips on how to avoid getting hurt, and having to pay them a visit. The officials at HealthSource of Duluth told…

More Snow Means More Business at Local Grocery Stores

Many shop before snow storm hits.

DULUTH, Minn.- More snow can be a hindrance for some. But for area grocery stores, it means a boost in sales. The Whole Foods Co-op in Denfeld said they can always anticipate an increase in sales of essentials like toilet paper and canned goods. They see the biggest uptake in their produce sales, of which increased 50 percent the past…

Shoveling and Slipping Safety Tips from Essentia Health

How to shovel without hurting your back, avoid slipping.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- More snow on the way means more shoveling for Northlanders. But there is potential danger when clearing snow. Emergency rooms see plenty of patients every winter who’ve been hurt while shoveling. While many of us don’t think twice about it, shoveling snow and even just walking on snowy sidewalks can be hazardous if you’re not careful. Using good lifting…

CBD Craze: Does It Work, and Is It Legal?

A Special Report Takes a Closer Look at CBD in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn- Chances are you’ve heard of it “CBD” is a product that’s hit the shelves in Minnesota and Wisconsin stores. Leaders in the industry are cashing in, calling the trend “a gold rush.” Many of the people who use it say it works to treat their illness, but on the flip side pharmacy leaders have issued warnings calling this…

Essentia Health Purchases Younkers for Fitness Center

Downtown Fitness Center moving to Mall

DULUTH, Minn.- Essentia Health is investing $15 million in the purchase and remodeling of the 145,000 square foot Younkers space at Miller Hill Mall, to make it the new location of their Fitness and Therapy Center. The Fitness Center at Younkers would take up about 34,000 square feet, about 12,000 square feet larger than the current downtown location. This makes…

Tips and Tricks for Winter Biking

Zeitgeist Hosts Bikes and Bites Tour for Winter Biking Week

DULUTH, Minn.- Those not bothered by the cold and snow who want to get outside this winter, might want to take their bikes out for a spin. Dozens of bikers rode in to Zeitgeist Arts Cafe in downtown Duluth today, the snow, slush and cold not stopping them. They shared with us some tips and tricks to navigating these conditions…

St. Luke’s Plans to Expand, Residents Concerned About Helipad

Community meeting meld at Hospital to discuss

DULUTH, Minn.- Neighbors who live near St. Luke’s hospital in downtown Duluth are sounding off about potential noise disturbance they feel could come from the hospital’s plan to expand it’s campus. The first phase of the hospital’s extension is estimated to cost $37.5 million and add 16 more general treatment rooms, 2 more trauma rooms, and 3 more behavioral health treatment…

Goodbye 18, Hello 21. Duluth’s Legal Age To Purchase Tobacco Products Rises

Ordinance Will Take Effect In 120 Days

DULUTH, Minn.- In a 6-2 vote Monday night, the Duluth city council voted in favor of raising the legal age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21. “I know people will say this is a complex issue. But the lives of our children–is simple,” said Tonya Sconier, principal at Denfeld High School, before the vote was made. About a…

Veterinarians On Hand During Beargrease Marathon

Veterinarians keep eyes on the sled dogs during marathon checkpoints.

DULUTH, Minn.- For those wondering about the safety of the sled dogs during the 35th annual Beargrease marathon, a veterinarian staff is on hand through the entirety of the race. A team of 20 vets are assigned to different checkpoints mushers are required to stop at during the marathon. At each stop, dogs are checked for injuries, hydration levels, exhaustion and…

Boy Scout Troop Hosts Blood Drive in Duluth

Three or four blood drives a year can save more than 500 lives

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the Red Cross, blood donations decrease during winter months. A local Boy Scout troop hosted a blood drive at the Northland Country Club. For every unit of blood donated, the Red Cross will give $10 to Boy Scout Troop 9. The money will fund future scout needs. Although the event is beneficial for the troop,…

As Warming Center Opens, Concerns Arise

Homeless Persons Bill of Rights Coalition Writes Letter to City

DULUTH, Minn.-  Thursday night marked not only the beginning of extreme cold, but the opening of a new warming center in Duluth. Five people occupied warming center on the 5800 Block of Grand Avenue in West Duluth on Thursday. While the city and the Homeless Persons Bill of Rights coalition, or HPBR, both consider that a victory, HPBR wants to…

Lungplus Helps You Breathe Warm During Arctic Blasts

Active Adventures: Ways To Stay Active Outside During Cold Snaps

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Active Adventures we introduce you to Lungplus! Lungplus is a device you place in your mouth and it aids in warming your entire body, so that you can still go outside in the below zero temperatures! It also helps you breathe easier. It also helps you with colds, throat pain, dry cough and will…

Discussion Engages Men About Sexual Violence

Men and Masculine Folks Network of Minnesota facilitating discussions statewide

DULUTH, Minn. – An organization hosted a discussion in Duluth engaging men in the subject of sexual violence. The Men and Masculine Folks Network of Minnesota held the discussion at Men as Peacemakers in Downtown Duluth. Their coordinator says it’s important to change the way men and boys are taught about sex and to focus on ending sexual violence in…

Yearlong Diabetes Prevention Program Offered at Duluth YMCA

Type-2 Diabetes is preventable if steps are taken

DULUTH, Minn. – Type-2 diabetes is a huge problem nationwide, but the disease can be prevented. At the Duluth YMCA, a yearlong program is helping people at risk for diabetes avoid the disease. The goal of the class is to lower participant’s body weight by seven percent and gradually increase their physical activity to one-hundred-fifty minutes per week. The facilitator…

Northland Schools Support Healthy Eating Resolutions

Wrenshall Schools Food Service Director Valerie Dahl Shares Tips to Getting Children to Enjoy Fruits, Vegetables During Meals

DULUTH, Minn. – With the start of a new year, healthy eating is a common resolution for families. School cafeteria professionals can often provide tips and techniques used in the cafeteria to get students to consume healthier food options that can easily translate to habits at home. • Create a food kaleidoscope – Children commonly eat with their eyes, if…

SunSpot Sisters Striving to Help Keep Northlanders Healthy this Winter

A List of Locations for The SunSpot Bus is Located Weekly on Their Facebook Page

DULUTH, Minn. – Katherine and Sue York are out to help community members fight the winter blues. The SOL Sisters are often seen driving their big red bus around the Northland to help Northlanders dealing with depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder and much more. Studies say that 71 percent of people in the Northland suffer from vitamin D deficiency during the grey winter months,…

Lightspeed Lift Helps People Walk Better Again

Local Invention Helps Northlander's Get Back On Their Feet Again

DULUTH, Minn. — In this week’s Knowing Your Neighbors a local physical therapist is helping give the gift of motion back through his personal invention that helps Northlander’s get back on their feet again. It’s called “Lightspeed Lift” and this creation all started with an idea that was sparked back in the early 90’s. Duluth physical therapist Malcolm Macaulay has…

Ignite Studio Helps Unpaid Government Workers

Fitness Studio Offers All Classes Free To Workers and Family

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s day 23 of the partial government shutdown, about 800,000 employees are either working without pay, or furloughed. Businesses are stepping forward to help those workers with the financial difficulties. Ignite Studio in Duluth is trying to help ease the worries of those affected by the shutdown by offering free classes so they can exercise–improving moods, boosting energy,…

Improve Balance & Reduce Falls With Tai Ji Quan Class

New Balance & Coordination Class Starts Next Week In Duluth, All Experience Levels Welcome

DULUTH, Minn. – With the icy conditions in place this time of year, the thought of falling can be serious. Especially the older you get and the less balance coordination you may have. One class starting next week helps improve your balance through martial arts movements. It’s called Tai Ji Quan. “It helps improve balance, coordination, strengthens lower extremities and…

Knowing Your Neighbors: Warming Up the Homeless

Ruth House Opens as Warming Center

SUPERIOR, Wis.- As the frigid air of night sets in, the question of where to sleep enters the minds of the homeless in Duluth and Superior. Places like CHUM or Solid Rock often fill up quickly, leaving them with almost no options. Until now. The Ruth House in Superior is offering warmth, and care, to anyone who needs it during Northland…

Northland’s Largest Baby Shower Happening Now

Life 97.3 and St. Luke's Hospital are Teaming Up Throughout the Month of January to Host the Northland's Largest Baby Shower

DULUTH, Minn. – Life 97.3 and St. Luke’s Hospital are partnering throughout the month of January to throw the Northland’s Largest Baby Shower! Life 97.3 is encouraging residents in the community to donate typical baby shower items that will ultimately benefit a number of organizations spread across the Northland that are helping families in need. Below is a list of all the organizations that…

Fit and Fabulous Tech to Help You Stay Motivated in 2019

Steve Van Dinter with Verizon Wireless Offers Tech Gadgets to Help Keep You on the Right Track in 2019

DULUTH, Minn. – Verizon can help put a little pep in your step if health and fitness are on your 2019 to-do list. These wearable devices make hitting the gym something to look forward to: • Fitbit Versa –The perfect fitness companion for recording workouts, heart rate zones, sleep patterns and more. • Palm – Make a resolution to spend…

Kick 2019 Into High Gear at Swift Martial Arts Leadership

Boot Camp Helps People Set Fitness Goals for New Year

DULUTH, Minn.-Health and fitness are among the top of the list of resolutions almost every year. One Northland business is helping you kick that up a notch. For many, the moves of martial arts may seem impossible, or something only Bruce Lee can do. But Swift’s Leadership Martial Arts on Grand Avenue shows that Tae Kwon Do can help you…

Duluth Bethel Shines Beacon of Hope

Beacon Lighting Helps Ring in New Year for Recovering Addicts

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Bethel has been serving the Northland in different ways for 145 years. On New Years Eve, they honored that legacy by having a dinner celebrating the lighting of their green beacon. A small crowd of counselors, community members, and those being treated at the Bethel gathered for the small lighting ceremony. The biting wind and chilling cold…

Sobriety Field Tests With Minnesota State Patrol

Troopers Partnered With FOX 21 to Demonstrate the Effects of Alcohol

DULUTH, Minn- As New Year’s Eve approaches, people are going to be out drinking alcohol and having a good time, but do you know your limit? How many drinks can you have before you’re legally impaired, and should not get behind the wheel? Is it 2, 3… 4 or more? FOX 21 teamed up with the Minnesota State Patrol to…

Using Yoga to Reflect on the Past Year

Yoga North Helping Northlanders Meditate

DULUTH, Minn.- We all have our rituals to celebrate the fresh New Year. But how many of us take steps to reflect on the year that past? At Yoga North, they say this is another key part to having a successful year, that many overlook. Reflection is not something many of us consider day to day, but according to the yoga…

10 Days Later, Cloquet House Fire Survivor Speaks Out

Still Recovering, Thankful to Be Alive

CLOQUET, Minn.-Firefighters worked three hours to put out a house fire in Cloquet 10 days ago. Now, the woman who survived it all shares her experience. Terri Cordell now lives in the Super 8 Motel in Cloquet. Scattered around her room are the belongings she salvaged from the flames. Unfortunately, her health did not make it out unscathed. Her breathing,…

Set Standards, Not Resolutions for the New Year

Coach for Success Pam Solberg-Tapper Stops by FOX 21 Local News to Chat about Setting Standards, Not Resolutions in the New Year

DULUTH, Minn. – According to Tony Robbins, “Any time you sincerely want to make a change, the first thing you must do is to raise your standards.” This New Year, if you think you should lose weight, improve finances, stop procrastinating or be kinder this year set standards, not resolutions. A standard is a rule you set for yourself. It…

UW Hospital now has 14 Cases of Legionnaires’ and 3 Deaths

One Patient Remains Hospitalized

MADISON, Wis. – A Legionnaires’ disease outbreak linked to UW Hospital’s water system has infected 14 people with the pneumonia-like bacteria, and three have died. Hospital spokeswoman Lisa Brunette tells the Wisconsin State Journal that the patients who died had other serious, life-limiting health conditions. One patient remains hospitalized. A hospital official has said the cases appear to be linked…

Coffee Conversation: Staying Heart Healthy this Winter

Dr. Leif Christianson, St. Luke's Cardiologist, Offers Tips to Stay Heart Healthy this Winter Season

DULUTH, Minn. – For this week’s Midwest Roaster’s Coffee Conversation, St. Luke’s Cardiologist, Dr. Leif Christianson, stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about ways to stay heart healthy this winter. The Northland is suffering a lack of snowfall so far this year, but that doesn’t mean we won’t make up for it as the season goes on. Christianson wants to…

MNsure Deadline Saturday for Jan. 1st Coverage

Enrollment open until Jan. 13, but if people sign up after Saturday, coverage won't start until February

DULUTH, Minn. – The deadline is fast approaching to enroll in health care coverage through MNsure. Saturday, December 15th, is the last day to sign up for coverage that starts on January 1st. Enrollment will remain open until January 13th, but if Minnesotans sign up after December 15th, their coverage will not start until February 2nd. The MNsure CEO tells…

Minnesota Lawmakers Open Discussions on High Insulin Costs

Some say the Cost of Insulin is "Immorally High"

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota lawmakers have heard from patients and families dealing with diabetes that they need help with the soaring cost of insulin. Sen. Matt Little convened an informal discussion at the Capitol Tuesday to gather information on what steps the state should take. The Lakeville Democrat says the cost of insulin is “immorally high” and there appears…

Alzheimer’s Added as Qualifier for Medical Marijuana

The state Health Department Made the Announcement Monday

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials are adding Alzheimer’s disease as a qualifying condition to get medical marijuana. The state Health Department announced Monday that the new condition would take effect in August 2019. Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm says there is “some evidence” that marijuana improves the mood, sleep and behavior of people with Alzheimer’s. The department takes public…

Craig Sutherland Sent Off for Treatment with Fundraiser

Community Came Out to Support Sutherland at Tavern 105

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The community of Superior came together to help one of their own at Tavern 105 on Saturday. The bar was packed to the brim with family and friends of Craig Sutherland. Citizens gathered to raise money to help the 8th District City Councilor pay for his Multiple Sclerosis treatment. Many showed their support by proudly sporting “Team Craig”…

Classic, Current, and Up-and-Coming Curlers Play at Curl Mesabi Classic

16th Annual Curling Event held at Curl Mesabi

EVELETH, Minn.- “Hard! HARD!” The skips’ voices quiver with passion, followed by the triumphant “CLICK” of rocks striking each other. These sounds ring in the Curl Mesabi Classic’s 16th year. An age–old tradition, yet always welcoming fresh faces. “I think for me, to come out here and be competitive, and soak up any knowledge that I possibly can,” said Ex-Viking…

15 Story Residential Tower Planned to Replace Voyageur Lakewalk Inn

$75 million dollar plans to develop on Superior Street

  DULUTH, Minn.-An estimated $1 billion dollars in development expansions is expected from Essentia and St. Luke’s hospitals next year. Now another 75 million could be added to the downtown area. Developers Titanium Partners is planning a 15 story residential tower to replace the Voyaguer Lakewalk Inn on superior street. A 2017 study conducted by the Greater Downtown Council found…

Tips to Keep Pets Away From the Emergency Room this Holiday Season

Dr. Matthew Severs with Superior Animal Hospital Offers Safety Tips for Pet Owners as the Holiday Season Arrives

SUPERIOR, Wis. – We’re just one day away from Thanksgiving — turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie and more. Chances are many of us will eat a little too much on turkey day, but what about our pets? Local veterinarians from Superior Animal Hospital want to make sure your animal stays safe this holiday season, avoiding a tragic trip to the emergency…

Boys and Girls Club Gives Feast of Thanks and Coats for Kids

Hot Thanksgiving Meal and a Coat Provided to Families

DULUTH, Minn.- On Tuesday night the Boys and Girls Club of the Northland held its annual Feast of Thanks, for dozens of families who otherwise might not get to enjoy a traditional hot thanksgiving meal. Around 200 people packed the Holy Family Catholic Church in Duluth for Turkey, Ham, Stuffing, and all the fixings. The free event is designed to…

Locally Sourced Items Help Brighten Thanksgiving Dinner

Staff at Whole Foods Co-op in Duluth Offer a Variety of Locally Sourced Items to Include in Your Thanksgiving Meal

DULUTH, Minn. – “You definitely taste the difference,” said Ali Wade, Brand Manager at the Duluth Whole Foods Co-op. Wade stopped by FOX 21 Local News Tuesday morning to offer some fresh, locally sourced items for your Thanksgiving table this year. She says both Whole Foods locations have been busy with shoppers rushing in to finalize their turkey day meals….

Mix Cosmetiques Brings Custom Makeup to Duluth

Owner Handmakes Soaps, Makeup, and More

DULTUTH, Minn.- Paris has Sephora, New York has Maybelline, and now Duluth has Mix Cosmetiques. The newest cosmetic store to hit the Northland offers custom, handmade makeup, soaps and lotion. Walking in, you’re hit with the sweet smells and vibrant colors of all the different cosmetics. You might even find the owner practicing her chemistry, mixing and testing different solutions to…

As Temps Drop, CHUM Proposes Warming Centers

CHUM Asks Council to Consider Proposal As Their Space Decreases

DULUTH, Minn.- As the extreme cold starts setting in, finding a warm, safe place to sleep becomes a serious, and even deadly challenge for Duluth’s homeless community. According to CHUM, more warm shelter options are needed in the city of Duluth, especially during a deep freeze. Last winter, 42 nights dropped below zero. In those conditions, it can take only…

Bake Sale Raises Money for Child Abuse Victims

First Witness Child Advocacy Center Hosts Bake Sale at Holiday Center

DULUTH, Minn.- A Duluth organization sold some sweet treats today, to benefit victims of child abuse. First Witness Child Advocacy Center sold baked goods donated by their board of directors and their friends and family at the Holiday Center. Organizers say, the sale’s impact is far-reaching. “Spreading the word about First Witness, and how important it is to our community…

Seventh Graders Learn Life-Saving Skills in Duluth

CPR training for Duluth's youth

  DULUTH, Minn.- Some Northland seventh graders have picked up some new skills thanks to the Superior Fire Department. More than three hundred students were trained in CPR and many other life–saving capabilities. The Superior Fire Department partnered with Enbridge Energy to provide the training. A grant from Enbridge also provides funding for the Superior Fire Department to also train…

Skip the Gym & Hit the ICE!

Active Adventures: Adult Open Skate Ice Skating At Heritage Sports Center Provides A Great Workout

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Active Adventures we are ice skating with Meteorologist Brittney Merlot at Duluth’s Heritage Sports Center! It’s a great indoor workout, affordable and for adults only! Check out all the fun Fox 21 had out on the ice in the video above. LOCATION: Essentia Health Duluth Heritage Sports Center COST: $4.00 per adult or a…

“Smoke Out” Day Brings Awareness to Duluth

  DULUTH, Minn.- It’s national “Smoke Out” Day. the FDA is announcing a tougher stand against flavored tobacco products. The goal is getting them out of young people’s hands. The federal agency is moving forward with  plan which would outlaw flavored tobacco products. About half of all U.S. teen cigarette smokers choose menthol flavored cigarettes. Flavored e–cigarettes have been blamed…