Business

JJ Astor, Bowery Bros. to Receive Rebranding, $500,000 in Renovations

Both Establishments Are Expected to Open in the Spring of 2022

DULUTH, Minn. – A Twin Cities-based restaurant company is looking to invest over a half-million dollars into the two restaurants associated with the iconic Radisson hotel in Duluth. Purpose Driven Restaurants will be taking over, and renovating the current JJ Astor Restaurant and Lounge and Bowery Bros. The iconic rotating restaurant atop the Radisson will continue to spin when renovations…

U.S. Consumer Confidence Rises Despite Omicron, Higher Prices

WASHINGTON (AP) – U.S. consumer confidence rose this month as Americans shrugged off concerns about rising prices and COVID’-19’s highly contagious omicron variant. The Conference Board, a business research group, said Wednesday that its consumer confidence index – which takes into account consumers’ assessment of current conditions and their outlook for the future – rose to 115.8 in December, the…

Fresh Off First Major Snowfall, Outdoor Enthusiasts Hit the Trails

Staff at Maple Grove Lodging & Bait Store in Finland is Receiving a Plethora of Phone Calls Regarding Trail Conditions

FINLAND, Minn. – Just days after the first snow of the season, and outdoor winter enthusiasts are chomping at the bit to begin doing what they love. “We’re excited, the ice is forming really well for ice fishing so that was great,” said Nicole Chumley, owner of Maple Grove Lodging & Bait Store. From ice fishing to more intense activities…

No Concern: Duluth Whole Foods Co-op Has Plenty of Turkeys, Options Available

With National Supply Chain Issues Impacting the Thanksgiving Table, Whole Foods Co-op Explains Why They're Prepared

DULUTH, Minn. – The two Whole Foods Co-op locations in Duluth are preparing to help you secure the final menu items on your list ahead of Thanksgiving. After hearing nationally of turkey shortages, and a spike in the price for your Thanksgiving bird, we’re learning local might be your best option this holiday season. The Co-op offers frozen and fresh…

Pedro’s Grill & Cantina Settling in to New Location

Pedro's Grill & Cantina is Now Located at 7 8th Street in Cloquet, Minnesota

CLOQUET, Minn. – Throughout the past 20 months amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve witnessed multiple businesses that were forced to shut their doors or change the way they operate just to make ends meet. This week’s Knowing Your Neighbors shines the spotlight on one success story from the community of Cloquet. “We love the atmosphere! It’s really nice in here,”…

New Gift Shop Moves into Former Lake County Chronicle Building

Fuzzly's Gifts Opened on Sept. 1 of 2021

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – “It’s a great feeling to see the accomplishment. We did all of the work ourselves,” said April Whitt, owner of Fuzzly’s Gifts. The past year and a half have been a whirlwind for Whitt and her husband Mark. “We decided that the purchase of the building was meant to be, and there was a reason behind it,…

Legacy of F and D Meats Continues Under New Ownership

The Previous Owners Left the Business in December of 2020

VIRGINIA, Minn. – After nearly 50 years in business, it can be difficult and nerve-wracking for new ownership to take over a strongly rooted establishment. “I just wanted to keep my shoulder behind the wheel and my toes out of the way,” said Joseph Walls, co-owner of F and D Meats in Virginia. Whether you’re a local, or just passing…

Vino with a View: Inside Lutsen’s North Shore Winery

North Shore Winery and Sawtooth Mountain Cider House Opened Back in 2016

LUTSEN, Minn. – When it comes to the birthplace of a good chardonnay or merlot, chances are Minnesota doesn’t come to mind. One business located in Lutsen, however, is looking to change that perception. “Just trying new things is very important. You don’t know what you like until you try it,” said Jayden Corliss, general manager at North Shore Winery….

Bayfield Businesses Looking Forward to Apple Fest

It's an occasion that is the biggest weekend of the year for the town.

BAYFIELD, Wisc. — “I think people are excited to be outside again and to gather,” Apostle Island Booksellers Store Manager, Kristen Sandstrom says. After having a different variation of the event last year, Apple Fest is coming back to downtown Bayfield this weekend. “We expect to have at least 20,000 people in and around the area this weekend,” Bayfield Chamber…

Taste Bud Tour with New Duluth-Based Charcuterie Board Business

Cooking Connection: Unique Cheese Combo Charcuterie Board with 'Yes, Cheese'

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Cooking Connection, Meteorologist Ken Slama helps assemble a unique charcuterie board filled with assorted Wisconsin cheeses with ‘Yes, Cheese.’ Get your taste buds ready because it’s sure to include a variety of cheese that is new and delicious to you! Click here for more information.   Categories: Cooking Connection, Entertainment Tags: Business, Charcuterie Board,…

New Charcuterie Board Business Now Open in Duluth

Cooking Connection: Bloody Mary Charcuterie Board

DULUTH, Minn. – Can you say Yes, Cheese? The owners and creators of Duluth’s very own charcuterie board business can! In this week’s Cooking Connection, Ken meets with one of the co-founders to find out what the business is all about, and try their Bloody Mary Charcuterie Board. The creation is perfect for a weekend at home, or a gathering…

COVID-19 Pandemic Brings Spike in Business for Discoverpc.NET

The Locally Owned Computer Solutions Center Offers Tech Assistance on Various Platforms

SUPERIOR, Wis. – If there’s one thing the past year and a half has taught us, it’s that we’re living in a technologically advanced world. Throughout that time, Discoverpc.NET in Superior has been helping to keep residents connected to the cyber world. “When I got into computers, it was pretty much a green screen commodore,” said Travus Elm, PC support…

Twin Ports Transplant Kick Starts ‘Too Good Bakery’

The Pop-Up Bakery can be Spotted at a Number of Events in Superior on a Weekly Basis

SUPERIOR, Wis. – They’re a dime a dozen these days – bakeries. However, it’s what each owner does to make their sweet treats special that sets that bar high, and customers coming back for more. “I bake with love and I’m backed by love,” exclaimed Liberty Smith, owner of Too Good Bakery. It’s a secret ingredient that can be hard…

Fredenberg Minno-ette Hooks New Ownership

Jason Manning and His Wife Brianna Purchased the Minno-ette in December of 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – A staple more than seven decades old in the Northland just recently switched over into new hands. Now the Fredenberg Minno-ette is truly a family affair. “It’s fantastic, it’s something I certainly don’t take for granted,” said Jason Manning, the new owner of the Fredenberg Minno-ette. For this local, longtime radio personality, it’s hard to reel in…

Carlton Daze Gives Local Businesses a Much-Needed Boost

Aaron Hanson, owner of Third Base Bar, said he's seeing a 70% increase in sales from last year at this time.

CARLTON, Minn.- Parade-goers weren’t the only ones enjoying “the daze” in Carlton during the “Carlton Daze” celebration. Local businesses have been enjoying a resurgence of customers this summer, especially during the festivities. Aaron Hanson, owner of Third Base Bar, said he’s seeing a 70% increase in sales from last year at this time. “We haven’t seen this in years, decades…

Duluth Based Boomerang Energy to Partner with Life Time Athletic Clubs

Life Time Currently Has Over One Million Members

DULUTH, Minn. – A local energy drink company is soaring to new heights after announcing they’ve partnered with nationally known Life Time athletic clubs. Boomerang Energy will soon be available for purchase in over 140 Life Time Cafe’s across the nation. The company first started in Duluth back in 2016. Unlike its competitors, Boomerang Energy consists of four natural sweeteners…

New Clothing Store Opens in Holiday Center

Hours are limited right now at Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. — A new business has opened in the holiday center skywalk on superior street. “I’m a mama so everything is handmade by me so it kind of just fit perfectly,” Handmade Mama owner, Kayla Moorhead says. Owner Kayla Moorhead has been selling her products online and has gained an international following but wanted to market her products to the…

New Canal Park Business Opens

Duluth Love opened in early May

DULUTH, Minn. — “We kind of cater to a really special crowd,” Duluth Love Owner, Garrett Kirwan says. The company Pandora’s Box owns about eight stores around the Midwest including one in Wisconsin Dell. In early May, they opened up shop down in Canal Park. “Luckily things were able to fall together for us and we were able to pick…

Bluestone Vue Nears Completion

DULUTH, Minn. – Construction is wrapping up at the Bluestone complex after starting nearly 10 years ago. Vue at Bluestone is the last building to go up and they may have saved the best for last. In addition to the Vue living up to its name, tenants will be offered a variety of amenities including a pool. “This is the…

Local Business Transforms From Catering to Food Truck Service Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

To Keep Business Booming, the Owners of 'Room at the Table' Have Turned to Food Truck Service

CLOQUET, Minn. – The past year has been interesting, to say the least for folks in the food service industry. From a lack of indoor dining to canceled events, many changes have had to occur for folks to make ends meet. “With COVID, we started flipping burgers and it worked out great,” said Paul Sapyta, owner of Room at the…

Spice Up Your Breakfast Routine with a Bite from Lift Bridge Bagels

Cooking Connection: Cream Cheese Filled Bagel Bites with Cinnamon Sugard on Top

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This week’s Cooking Connection features the perfect option for a quick bite to eat before your busy day begins. Lift Bridge Bagel creator, Lexy Land, shows FOX 21 Meteorologist Ken Slama how she whips up her mouthwatering cream cheese filled bagel bites with cinnamon sugar. Land also creates a variety of bagels perfect for any occasion. Click…

New BBQ Eatery Now Open on the Iron Range

Neighbor's BBQ Serves Fresh Meats Smoked Daily at Their Location in Tower, Minnesota

TOWER, Minn. – If you’re looking to get your hands on a mouthwatering rack of ribs, the Iron Range is now the place to do it. “I want to put Minnesota barbecue on the map,” said Eric Drake, owner of Neighbor’s BBQ. “I’ve been smoking meat for over 15 years.” It’s not Kansas City, Memphis, Texas, or Carolina style. Eric…

Business Owners On Lake Vermilion Optimistic for Much Better Summer Season

The Owners of Lake Vermilion Houseboats and Pike Bay Lodge Look Forward to Welcoming Guests Back to the Great Outdoors

LAKE VERMILION, Minn. – After a year of the unknown and countless cancellations, the summer season is looking brighter for businesses along Lake Vermilion. “This year is looking to be our best year-to-date,” said Kyle Colbert, owner of Lake Vermilion Houseboats. The scene is calm on Lake Vermilion, but many business owners are preparing for a stampede of activity as…

Spring Cleaning Made Easy at New Tommy’s Express Car Wash

Tommy's Express Car Wash Opened a Duluth Location in Late March

DULUTH, Minn. – When spring weather arrives, you’re guaranteed two things in the Northland — construction season and long lines at the car wash. Now one new business in Duluth is putting forth a dedicated team of deep cleaners who have a passion for saving you time and making your vehicle shine. “The flight deck is what we call it,”…

North Shore Businesses Optimistic for Strong Summer Tourism Season

From New Recreations Offerings, to Great Burgers and Brews, Two North Shore Businesses Optimistic Ahead of the Summer Season

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors venture up Minnesota’s North Shore, stopping along the way to help stimulate the various local economies in smaller communities. Two area businesses are optimistic for a better year ahead, as the COVID-19 pandemic hopefully reaches a more controllable level. “It’s probably one of the most beautiful places. You can…

Two Harbors to Welcome New Business This Summer

Burlington Station & Callie's Sweets Plan to Open by Memorial Day Weekend

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – A new place to purchase sweet treats and check out model trains is coming to the City of Two Harbors. Burlington Station is located along 7th Avenue, right before you leave the city to head up the North Shore. Inside the station, Callie’s Sweets will be offering handmade caramel, fudge, gourmet popcorn, and candy apples. The…

Savoring the Flavors of Spring With Key Lime Pie from Lady Meg’s Cakes

Cooking Connection: Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

SUPERIOR, Wis. – What started as a passion has now turned into a small-scale profession for Superior resident Meghan Gobel. Over the past few months, Gobel, the creator of Lady Meg’s Cakes, launched a Facebook page to promote her hobby of baking and sharing the goodies with customers in the Twin Ports. She’s overjoyed to see the outpouring of support she’s…

Former Cloquet Hardware Store Turning into New Thrift Shop

NorthStar Community Services Will Soon Open a Thrift Store in the Former Space of Wood City Lights and Hardware

CLOQUET, Minn. – A longtime hardware store in Cloquet will soon be shutting its doors for good. But new hope is on the horizon for the space. “It’s just wonderful to be part of the community,” said Linda Erickson, former owner of Erickson Hardware in Cloquet. Erickson has a love for helping residents in her community fix just about anything…

Ely Business Owners Optimistic for Brighter Days Ahead

From Taprooms to Outfitters, Ely Businesses Remain Optimistic as Summer Tourism Season Inches Closer

ELY, Minn. – As the pandemic continues, there’s no doubt about it, many of us are counting down the days until summer finally sets in, allowing for more time outdoors, and the perfect setting to safely visit with friends and family. “All the campsites are at least 1/8 mile apart, so I guess social distancing is just perfect. You can’t…

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Lady Meg’s Cakes, Desserts

Cooking Connection: Snicker Cupcakes with Lady Meg's Cakes

SUPERIOR, Wis. – What started as a passion has now turned into a small-scale profession for Superior resident Meghan Gobel. Over the past few months, Gobel, the creator of Lady Meg’s Cakes, launched a Facebook page to promote her hobby of baking and sharing the goodies with customers in the Twin Ports. She’s overjoyed to see the outpouring of support…

Local Shop Combines Vintage & Modern Kitchenware

Potluck Vintage & Modern Kitchenware is Located Along Chapman Street in Ely, Minnesota

ELY, Minn. – It was back in 2019 when the Ely Shopko shut its doors. The closure caused a big blow to many of the residents, who relied on the store for everyday essentials for the home or cabin. Now residents are thrilled to have a shop down the block to frequent for everyday items. “I tried to bring in…

Pandemic Prompting More People to Hit the Slopes at Lutsen Mountains

With Safety Precautions in Place, Staff at Lutsen Mountains is Ready to Welcome Visitors to the Slopes

LUTSEN, Minn. – It’s known as cabin fever, and this year, we may find ourselves letting it sink in earlier due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many winter weather enthusiasts are embracing current restrictions and taking a trip up the North Shore. “If you would like an action-packed, nature-filled, beautiful landscape ski resort, come to Lutsen Mountains,” exclaimed Rhylee Octavion,…

Two North Shore Lodges Finish Major Renovations

Mountain Inn at Lutsen and Cascade Lodge and Restaurant Recently Completed Extensive Renovations of Their Lodging Facilities

COOK COUNTY, Minn. – Recent stay-safe restrictions have given many Northlanders more time to tackle projects we couldn’t get done during the busy hustle and bustle of daily lives pre-pandemic. In this week’s Knowing Your Neighbors, you’re invited inside two lodges along the North Shore that are happy to welcome guests into fresh facilities after months of hard work. “There…

The Snake Pit Experiences Spike in Business Amid COVID Pandemic

The Snake Pit is Located 5211 Miller Trunk Highway in Hermantown

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Pet adoptions are on the rise amid the coronavirus pandemic, and The Snake Pit is experiencing the spike firsthand. Owner Roger Hill says business has picked up while restrictions have been in place. With more people stuck at home, they’re looking for companions to care for, and cold-blooded creatures are no exception. The snake pit offers a…

Best Pet Products to Invest In For Winter Weather

A Place for Fido is Fully Stocked with Products to Keep Pets Safe During Winter Months

DULUTH, Minn. – With the bitter cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing recently, it’s important to remember our pets need extra care during the winter months ahead. Jamie Parent, owner of A Place for Fido in the Fitger’s Complex in Duluth shares a few products to help keep your pet protected from the elements. The shop recently received a large shipment…

North Shore Businesses Reopen, Hopeful for Additional Snowfall

During Winter, Businesses Along the North Shore Rely Heavily on Traffic Brought in by Snow Conditions

BEAVER BAY, Minn. – Businesses along the North Shore are breathing a sigh of relief after months of being shut down. However, many owners now have to deal with another obstacle – a lack of snow this winter. “We opened in August anticipating that things were going to get better, and then we got a rude surprise in November, and…

Shaking Your Way Into the New Year With London Road Nutrition

Cooking Connection: London Road Nutrition

DULUTH, Minn. – With healthy eating on the minds of many in the New Year, London Road Nutrition is looking to help you cut down on calories and receive an extra boost of energy. The business offers a wide variety of meal replacement shakes in over 30 different flavors. The shakes are roughly 200-250 calories, and include 24 grams of…

Northland Entrepreneur Develops Crud Cloth for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Crud Cloth was Developed Two Years Ago by Hermantown Resident Tim White

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – If you ever feel the need to freshen up after a long day outdoors or a muddy trip down the bike trail, Northland entrepreneur Tim White is here to help. White developed the Crud Cloth after having dealt with his own messy outdoor adventures. “As a resident of Duluth and enjoyer of the activities here, I developed…

After 52 Years in Business, Cloquet’s Pete & Sons, Inc. Set to Close

The Final Day of Business for Pete & Sons, Inc. will be Dec. 31, 2020

CLOQUET, Minn. – Do you remember the last time you went to gas up your vehicle and an employee at the station did it for you? For one family in Cloquet, they never bat an eye at going above and beyond when it came to serving those who stopped by their business. After more than 50 years in business, the…

Handmade in the Northland: Sprig Design Co.

FOX 21 Local News is Highlighting Local Makers in the Northland Ahead of the Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – Throughout the week of Dec. 7 – 11, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the gift-giving season. Throughout the season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones while supporting local businesses amid a year of many…

Handmade in the Northland: Clover + Cotton

FOX 21 Local News is Highlighting Local Makers in the Northland Ahead of the Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – During the week of Dec. 7 – 11, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the gift-giving season. Throughout the season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones while supporting local businesses amid a year of…

Handmade in the Northland: The Big Lake

FOX 21 Local News is Highlighting Local Makers in the Northland Ahead of the Holiday Season

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. – During the week of Dec. 7 – 11, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the gift-giving season. Throughout the season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones while supporting local businesses amid a year…

A “Lure” of Lights Expected to Help Hayward Businesses

This year Hayward community members are hopeful that people still get out in a safe manner and shop local.

HAYWARD, Wisc. – As the annual “Lure” of Lights display in downtown Hayward Wisconsin kicked off Friday, community members say it’s just one of the many activities that will hopefully mean a successful winter for tourism. “We know it’s going to be a holiday season like no other,” Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Chris Ruckdaschel says. This year…

Handcrafted Po’ Boy Sandwiches From Gumbo Boi

Cooking Connection: Blackened Chicken, Shrimp Po' Boy Sandwiches

DULUTH, Minn. – Northlanders with a craving for Cajun cuisine now have a weekly option in Duluth. Robert Lee, also known as Gumbo Boi, is a Louisiana native turned Duluthian, and is now cooking up his favorite recipes for all to enjoy. He recently started serving sandwich options every Monday. You’re encouraged to order ahead of time online to make…

MISO Desserts and Catering Showcase Handcrafted Sweet Treats

Cooking Connection: Vanilla Bean Cheesecake

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Debuting a new business during a global pandemic is no easy task, but Cindy and Jonathan Katzmark were ready for the challenge. The duo has worked in the culinary industry for many years, and finally decided to branch off and begin an adventure of their own. The team works out of the kitchen space located inside the…

A Place for Fido Expanding in Duluth’s Fitger’s Complex

Jamie Parent, Co-Owner of A Place for Fido, is Aiming to Open the New, Bigger Location by Mid-November

DULUTH, Minn. – Expanding a business is no easy task, but for the owners of one local pet supply store, this year has been full of first-time adventures. The COVID-19 pandemic isn’t putting a pause on expansion plans at A Place for Fido in the Fitger’s complex. “One thing that’s super exciting is we’re going to have a lake view,”…

Working, Playing From Home? These Tech Gadgets Help Make Your Life Easier

Remote Work and Learning Habits - Making Life Easier for Parents and Kids Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – Are you still working and playing mostly at home? Verizon Wireless has new tech for helping families who are doing all their daily tasks in one place. Samsung Galaxy A71 5G UW If you want a 5G-powered phone for as little as $20 a month (with additional trade-in options) – check out the Samsung Galaxy A71 5G UW….