Business

Sweet Exchange Bakery Offering ‘Pandemic Bridal Special’

Cooking Connection: Sweet Exchange Classic Wedding Cake with Raspberry Infused Meringue Filling

DULUTH, Minn. – Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many brides and grooms-to-be are stressed to the max, having to adjust and deal with safety guidelines as the spread of the virus continues. Lisa Quarles of Sweet Exchange Bakery is looking to take a little of the stress off their shoulders, offering a limited time ‘Pandemic Bridal Special.’ Sweet Exchange Wedding Cakes…

Spring Creek Manufacturing Seeing Increase in Business Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

The Company Dates Back to 1985, With Tom and Grant Sega Purchasing the Business Back in 2017

MOUNTAIN IRON, Minn. – Taking a business from point A to point B is no easy task – toss in a global pandemic, and things can get messy. For one company with deep roots on the Iron Range, sales show huge growth in the past year, and the product that helped get it all started decades ago could be one…

Free COVID-19 Testing Event Planned in Itasca County

Free Drive-Thru Testing is Happening Sept. 23 at the Itasca County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – COVID-19 continues to take a toll on employers and employees across Minnesota. Thursday during a weekly update from Itasca County Public Health Department, local health officials and management from area companies expressed the importance of communications between employees and employers when it comes to COVID-19 cases in the workplace. Employees are encouraged to brush up on…

COVID-19 Creates New Connections in the World of Ballroom Dance

Superior Ballroom Dance Studio is Seeing a Slight Increase in Customers Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – Small businesses across the Northland are facing extreme financial challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic. From restaurants to boutiques, and even ballroom dance studios, changes are being made daily to keep clients engaged and revenue coming in. “I like to dance all day long and share knowledge,” said Benjamin Welch, head instructor at Superior Ballroom Dance Studio. “I…

Zesty Lemon Layer Cake with Lift Bridge Baked Goods

Lift Bridge Baked Goods Operates as a Home Based Cottage Food Business

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This week’s cooking connection features a new business to the Twin Ports, Lift Bridge Baked Goods. The company was founded by Riley Perrella and Dylan Holt, a young couple currently residing in Superior. Holt studied marketing and business in college, and Perrella has a unique passion for baking and creating edible works of art. Lift Bridge Baked…

Coalition of Downtown Duluth Businesses Kick off Friday ‘HART Happy Hour’

HART Happy Hour Takes Place Every Friday in August

DULUTH, Minn. – A coalition of businesses located in the Historic Arts and Theater District in Downtown, Duluth, also known as HART, have come together to create HART Happy Hour every Friday in August. HART Happy Hour is meant to provide an atmosphere for the community to connect, socialize, and help stimulate the local economy. Every Friday in August from…

International Falls Area Businesses Experience Impact of COVID-19

U.S., Canada Border Closure Impacts Businesses in the International Falls Area

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. – COVID-19 continues to keep a tight lockdown on our daily lives and routines. Businesses are being impacted, and communities are having to come together now more than ever before to help one another. The community of International Falls, situated right along the Canadian border, is feeling the economic impact due to the ongoing U.S., Canadian border…

Northland Natives Formulate Healthy Boost with Boomerang Energy

Duluthians Donny and Will Pearson Wanted to Create a Healthier Alternative to Traditional Energy Drinks

DULUTH, Minn. – We’ve all been there – Long days at work making for sleepy afternoons waiting for the clock to strive five. Each year millions of energy drinks are sold in the United States. Now the Northland has a local option for those looking to sip on a healthier boost of energy. “You throw it out, it comes back,”…

e2ip Technologies Shutting Down Bigfork Facility By End of 2020

Economic Officials in Itasca County Provide an Update on Residents, Businesses Financially Impacted by COVID-19

BIGFORK, Minn. – Friday morning during a press briefing, economic officials in Itasca County provided new details regarding the economic impact COVID-19 is having on residents and businesses in the region. According to Tamara Lowney, President, and CEO of Itasca Economic Development Center, by the end of 2020, Montreal based e2ip Technologies will close its Bigfork location for good. The…

Lake Superior Zoo Plans ‘A Walk on the Wild Side’ Reopening

Indoor Exhibits Will Remain Closed as the Zoo Takes a Phased Approach to Reopening

DULUTH, Minn. – Under the latest phase of Minnesota’s ‘Stay Safe’ executive order, many public facilitates are allowed to reopen with health restrictions in place. On the list to reopen is the Lake Superior Zoo. Staff is breathing a sigh of relief after losing roughly $500,000 in earned revenue since being forced to close doors almost three months ago. Before…

OMC Smokehouse Expanding into Next-Door Noble Pour; Now Called ‘OMC Whiskey Bar’

A hole in the wall now connects the restaurant to the bar, increasing seating.

DULUTH, Minn.- Governor Walz announcing that bars, restaurants and other business can open at 50% capacity Wednesday is a relief for many restaurant owners. But for one in Lincoln Park, that meant scrapping a newly opened business to give new life to an existing favorite. “We’re kind of calling an audible on every play that we’ve made in the last…

West’s Hayward Dairy Serving Scoops for Summer Memories

This Week's Knowing Your Neighbors Shares Delicious Details of One Locally Owned Business in Hayward

HAYWARD, Wis. – Happiness in Hayward is served one scoop at a time. “No one tub is ever the same because it’s whatever I’m grabbing,” said Tom Baranick, co-owner of West’s Hayward Dairy. “We’re one of the few stores in Wisconsin that makes their ice cream on site.” Consistency is key, but creativity often prevails at this Hayward hotspot. “It…

Eveleth Bar Owner: ‘June 1st is Really the End of the Wire’

Owners of bars, restaurants, and other businesses met in Eveleth to discuss opening strategies, and share frustrations with the state's handling of things.

EVELETH, Minn.- Businesses across Minnesota are anxiously awaiting the Governor’s announcement Wednesday authorizing them to open June 1st, including up on the range in the small town of Eveleth that has a population of 3,596. “Walz opening up on the first at a capacity of 25%? That’s. Not. Enough,” said one business owner. Bar and restaurant owners in Eveleth said…

Superior Businesses Navigate Operating Safely After First Weekend Open

Douglas County officials urge businesses to follow guidelines, and they may shut them down if they receive complaints.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- It was the first weekend that businesses in Wisconsin were suddenly given the green light to open after the state’s stay at home order was thrown out by the Wisconsin Supreme Court–now business owners in Superior say it’s time to figure out how to open safely. The jingle of the door opening is a sound not heard at…

White Spruce Market Seeing Spike in Business Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

The Locally Handcrafted Gift Boxes Are Proving to be Popular Gifts As Stay-At-Home Orders Continue

DULUTH, Minn. – Mother’s Day is less than a week away, and with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’ll most definitely look a little different this year. The ‘new normal’ isn’t stopping the tradition of gift-giving, however. Locally handcrafted White Spruce Market is seeing a big spike in business as consumers look to stay connected by gift-giving.  Bailey Aro Hutchence is…

Northland Foundation, Area Partners Raise $2 Million for COVID-19 Financial Relief

Relief Funds Will Be Used For Multiple Programs, Local Businesses in Northeastern Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland Foundation has been serving seven counties including five tribal nations in Northeastern Minnesota since the 1980s. The foundation strives to economically support residents and businesses in the region, especially during financially difficult times. “We’re doing our best to connect our businesses and our people with those resources both in our region, in the state, and…

Silver Bay Grocery Store Offering Curbside Service to Elderly Residents

With Help From North Shore Area Partners, More Than a Dozen Silver Bay Residents Utilize the Service

SILVER BAY, Minn. – We’ve heard it before, coronavirus doesn’t discriminate. Although no cases have been reported in Lake County thus far, residents remain cautious, practicing social distancing and limiting trips out of the home. Many small-town residents are stepping up to alleviate stress while helping those in need. “I spend an hour in here just talking. It takes me…

Visit Cook County Remains Optimistic Amid Ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic

Visit Cook County Continues to Monitor Developments, Advice from Minnesota Department of Health Officials

COOK COUNTY, Minn. – The residents of Cook County are concerned when it comes to visitors traveling to the region from elsewhere amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The friendly staff at Visit Cook County remain optimistic during these trying times and want to assure everyone they are monitoring the latest health and safety information from state health officials before reopening the…

Amid Decline in Business, PacKare Duluth Continues to Bring Pets Daily Joy

PacKare Duluth Experiences a More Than 50 Percent Decline in Business During COVID-19 Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – One thing you’re still allowed to do under a ‘Stay at Home’ order is get outside and enjoy the great outdoors with social distancing in mind. Many animals in the Northland are getting more walks than normal during this difficult time. One local pet care business is considered essential to stay open, but the owner is seeing…

Veterinary Clinics Open Amid COVID-19 Concerns, New Protocols In Place

Local Vet Clinics Are Using Curbside Services to Continue Seeing Clients' Pets

DULUTH, Minn. – With several business owners closing their doors, Northland veterinary clinics are also seeing the effects of coronavirus (COVID-19). This reality is because more people are choosing to keep their pets home instead of receiving nonessential care. At Duluth Veterinary Hospital, they have protocols in place for a curbside service, where staff comes out to retrieve the pet…

Ursa Minor Brewing Getting Creative Throughout COVID-19 Pandemic

"We want to keep as many employees working as possible," said Ben Hugus, owner of Ursa Minor Brewing in the Lincoln Park Craft District

DULUTH, Minn. – Staff members at Ursa Minor Brewing in Duluth’s Lincoln Park Craft Distract are doing their part to practice social distancing, while also keeping the lights on inside the facility. The brewery is offering a new beer delivery service as of Thursday, March 19. A valid ID is required at the time of delivery that must match the…

Salons, Spas in Minnesota Ordered to Close Through March 27

Owners of Local Salons Speak Out Regarding the Impact of Business Closures

DULUTH, Minn. – If you get your hair cut in Minnesota, you won’t be able to anymore – at least until March 27 at 5:00 p.m. Affective Tuesday, March 17 at 5:00 p.m., under orders from Governor Tim Walz, hair and nail salons as well as spas have been ordered to close due to concerns over COVID-19. This news is…

2020 Brings Changes to Retirement Savings

Financial Professional Barry Bigelow Explains the New SECURE Act (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act)

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s the first major law impacting retirement savers in more than a decade. The SECURE Act took effect January 1, which means big changes for anyone with a 401(k) or IRA. Financial Professional Barry Bigelow from Great Waters Financial recently stopped by FOX 21 Local News from 7 – 9 a.m. to discuss how the changes will…

A Place for Fido to Begin Delivery Service in Duluth, Superior

A Place for Fido will Deliver to Customers Within a Six Mile Radius of Fitger's

DULUTH, Minn. – After eight years of operation, a Duluth pet supply business located in the Fitger’s complex is expanding. A Place for Fido will officially kick off delivery service on Friday, January 10. The service operates within a six mile radius of the Fitger’s location. Customers can visit A Place For Fido online to check availability. A delivery charge…

Ring in the New Year with a New Tattoo at Miller Hill Mall

The Lost Cove Co. Tattoo Pop-Up at Miller Hill Mall in Duluth Runs from January 2 - 31

DULUTH, Minn. – Starting Thursday, January 2, the Miller Hill Mall will welcome the addition of a new pop-up tattoo shop featuring a celebrity artist. The Lost Cove Co. is a tattoo pop-up experience with a rotating crew of artists beginning in Los Angeles, second stop Duluth, third stop Austin, TX then going on to various other cities around the…

Duluth’s Best Bread Introduces Monthly Subscription Boxes

The First Delivery of Boxes will be Thursday, January 2

DULUTH, Minn. – Just in time for the holiday season, Duluth’s Best Bread is launching monthly subscription boxes. “It’s like Birchbox, but with croissants instead of makeup,” said co-owner Michael Lillegard. Duluth’s Best Bread Taste Tester Box launches new and unique baked goods into the mouths of subscribers on the first Thursday of each month starting January 2. There are…

Handmade in the Northland: Riverside Soy Candles

FOX 21 Local News is Looking to Highlight Local Makers in the Northland Ahead of the Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – During the week of December 9 – 13, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the Christmas holiday. Throughout the holiday season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones. It’s beginning to look, and smell a…

Handmade in the Northland: MOD Playhouse

FOX 21 Local News is Looking to Highlight Local Makers in the Northland Ahead of the Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – During the week of December 9 – 13, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the Christmas holiday. Throughout the holiday season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones. Shari Bradt is the creator of MOD…

Handmade in the Northland: Wildlife Artist Alexa Carson

FOX 21 Local News is Looking to Highlight Local Makers in the Northland Ahead of the Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – During the week of December 9 – 13, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the Christmas holiday. Throughout the holiday season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones. Alexa Carson is a wildlife artist based…

Handmade in the Northland: Burdock Ceramics

FOX 21 Local News is Looking to Highlight Local Makers in the Northland Ahead of the Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – During the week of December 9 – 13, FOX 21 Local News from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. will be highlighting local makers in the Northland ahead of the Christmas holiday. Throughout the holiday season, many folks are working to pick out unique, locally made gifts for friends and loved ones. Barry Sands and his partner Rita work…

Black Friday Shopping? Don’t Forget These Four Helpful Tips

Local Financial Professional Barry Bigelow Offers Advice and Tips to Help Keep Your Wallet Happy This Black Friday

DULUTH, Minn. – Black Friday is known for its door-busting deals and bargain-hunting shoppers. Local Financial Professional Barry Bigelow from Great Waters Financial stopped by FOX 21 Local News from 7 – 9 a.m. with tips to help you make the most of your time and money this Black Friday. Black Friday is almost here and so are the deals….

New Local Business Taking Stress Out Of Holiday Baking

Lake Superior Baking Co. Began in October of 2019; Hermantown Resident Chloe Harris is the Founder of the Company

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Baking is all the buzz in the kitchen of one Hermantown resident. 17-year-old Chloe Harris started Lake Superior Baking Co. in October of 2019. Harris says she has had a passion for baking since she was 7-years-old. Now she’s turning her passion into a profession by starting up her very own company. Harris bakes out of her…

New Pet Transportation Service Opening Soon in Twin Ports

Poocher Pet Shuttle will Begin Animal Transportation Services on Monday, November 4

DULUTH, Minn. – If you’ve ever needed to get your pet to an appointment, but simply don’t have the time or want to go out in the cold, a new business will soon be at your service in the Twin Ports. Poocher Pet Shuttle will be similar to Lyft and Uber, but will only transport animals. Owner Gerald Osgan recently…

Twin Ports College Students Connect with Business Mentors

Mentor Connection program helps students establish connections with the Twin Ports Business Community.

DULUTH, Minn.- Northland College students got to rub elbows with Twin Ports business leaders who work in the field they’re studying. The career-finding organization Northforce put on the event at Great Lakes Aquarium. It’s part of the launch of their Mentor Connect program, which matches students from the College of St. Scholastica, Lake Superior College, University of Wisconsin-Superior, and UMD…

All Natural, Eco-Friendly Grooming Service Opens in Superior

All Natural Canines is Located at 1308 Tower Avenue in Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Dogs, cats, rabbits, and even birds. It sounds like a handful, but for one business owner in Superior, it’s her clientele. Some could say there are new doggies in one window along Tower Avenue in Superior. “Dogs are my main passion,” said Amy Mundt, owner of All Natural Canines Pet Grooming in Superior. The longtime resident of…

Game Day Apps with Bucktales Cantina and Grill

Cooking Connection: Fresh Baked Loaded Nachos and Homemade Guacamole

SUPERIOR, Wis. – It’s football season and with it comes the munchies! In this week’s Cooking Connection, FOX 21’s Brett Scott chats with Bucktales Cantina and Grill owner Dee Morales as business picks up for the fall season. Morales is the only chef in the kitchen at Bucktales, handcrafting each order to perfection. The business is located near Pattison State…

Proctor Businesses React to Construction

Proctor, MN – Construction in Proctor is continuing to buzz along. Stop light repairs and accessibility to county road eleven are taking up the bulk of the work. The construction, which started August 7th, is on the main drag of town on highway two. One local business owner says, crossing the street and taking new delivers has been difficult. “The…

Knowing Your Neighbors: East End Driving Academy Now Open in Lakeside Neighborhood

East End Driving Academy is Located at 512 North 45th Avenue East in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – When teens start their drivers training course they’re well on their way to legally getting behind the wheel. But with few options in Duluth to take the required courses, one local man is trying to fill the void. Before East End Driving Academy, parents in this specific area of the city didn’t have any alternatives to enroll…

Handcrafted Ravioli Augusti Offers Seafood Satisfaction

Cooking Connection: The Strand Waterfront Dining and Wine Bar at Lutsen Resort

LUTSEN, Minn. – Entrees are sizzling off the menu this summer at The Strand Waterfront Dining and Wine Bar at Lutsen Resort up the North Shore. Executive Chef Chris Homyak has hand selected fine ingredients and recipes to refresh the restaurant’s menu this year. This week’s cooking connection features a handcrafted Ravioli Augusti. Ravioli Augusti: House made beet ravioli with…

Report: Iron Ore Trade Up Two Percent in May

Shipments of Iron Ore from U.S. Great Lakes Ports Increased Two Percent in May Compared to 2018

CLEVELAND – A new report released by the Lake Carriers’ Association shows shipments of iron ore from U.S. Great Lakes ports totaled six million tons in May, an increase of nearly two percent compared to a year ago. The new data is also four percent above the month’s 5-year average. Year-to-date the iron ore trade stands at 14.5 million tons, an increase of…

Pet Supply Store Secures Location in New Duluth Retail Development

Chuck & Don's is Expected to Open Late Winter, Early Spring of 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – FOX 21 is learning more about a new Eagan, Minnesota based pet store coming to Duluth. According to a company spokesperson for the pet supply company, Launch Properties is responsible for building the retail development that Chuck & Don’s will call home in late winter, early spring of 2020. The space will be located in the Jigsaw retail development…

Order Up! ‘Bite Squad’ Rolls into Duluth, Hermantown

Bite Squad is a Food Delivery Service Based in Minneapolis

DULUTH, Minn. – Are you hungry, but don’t want to cook or wait at the restaurant to get your food? Minnesota based Bite Squad is now serving the Duluth and Hermantown areas. Bite Squad started in Minneapolis in 2012 serving 17 restaurants and employing five drivers. The food delivery business is now in more than 375 cities across the United…

Lake Superior Art Glass Now Offering Kid’s Classes

Classes will be Offered Seven Days a Week Beginning Thursday, May 23

DULUTH, Minn. – A new kid’s class is coming to Lake Superior Art Glass in Duluth’s Canal Park. Owner Dan Neff says classes will begin on Thursday, May 23, and will be offered seven days a week. The Kid’s Class is offered to children ages 4 – 11 where the kids will help design and create their own pendant. As…

Purchase a Pack, Plant a Tree

The Monthlong Drive is in Collaboration with the Minnesota DNR

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Pack has brought back its company-wide and month-long Arbor Day campaign called, “Buy A Pack, We Give Back.” Due to the company’s success with the philanthropic campaign in 2018, the Made in America business has brought it back once again for 2019. For every Duluth Pack manufactured product sold, Duluth Pack will properly plant a tree…

Living Walls Blossom Throughout Local Duluth Businesses

Bill and Kate Isles are the Creators Behind Duluth Living Walls

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lincoln Park craft district is now home to a massive 37 foot long living wall. The concept is sprouting up in popularity across much of the nation, but the owners are proud to be the first official business right here in the Northland. “A lot of people, first their thought is, wow, and second it’s like, is…

Local Organizations Honored During Special Lunch

Multiple Northland organizations were honored today for all the work they do in the community during the Local Initiatives Support Corporation's Luncheon at the DECC.

DULUTH, Minn.-Multiple Northland organizations were honored today for all the work they do in the community during the Local Initiatives Support Corporation’s Luncheon at the DECC, which included a keynote address from the governor. Those honored included multiple affordable housing groups, which Duluth leadership say are vital to the Northland’s growth. “It’s so great as a mayor to know that…

51st Annual Motorhead Madness Revs up Northland Auto Enthusiasts

The 51st Annual Arrowhead Auto Body Motorhead Madness is Happening March 23 - 24

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland’s biggest indoor car show is coming to the DECC March 23 – 24. The show is in its 51st year, featuring four overflowing arenas filled with customs, street rods, trucks, 4X4s, race cars, cycles, rat rods and antiques. Vendors will be on site along with a swap meet and flea market for folks to enjoy….

Order Up! Gordy’s Hi-Hat to Host Hiring Event Saturday

The Hiring Event is Happening Saturday, March 9 from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Gordy's Hi-Hat in Cloquet

DULUTH, Minn. – After many months of cold temperatures and heavy snowfall, Gordy’s Hi-Hat is preparing to open for the 59th season. The family-owned eatery is hosting a hiring event on Saturday, March 9 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Gordy’s grandson, Sever Lundquist, says positions available range from cooks to janitors and even teens looking for their first summer job. Lundquist invites everyone interested…

Treating Pain, Anxiety with CBD Oil for Animals

Ignite Vapor and Tobacco is Located at 502 Hammond Avenue in Superior

DULUTH, Minn. – Scientific research proves man’s best friend is able to help humans relieve stress, but what helps your furry friends calm down and relax? The staff at Ignite Vapor and Tobacco in Superior believe the answer is stocked on their store shelves. Staff member Timothy Frey frequently deals with helping his German Shepard, Dakota, relieve pain. “There are all…

New Outdoor Consignment Shop to Host Pop-Up Event in Duluth

The First Ever Great Lakes Gear Exchange Pop-Up Event is Happening Saturday, March 9, 2019

DULUTH, Minn. – Since January, items new and used have been coming in rapidly to the Great Lakes Gear Exchange. Owners Brooke Wetmore and Emily Richey decided two years ago to begin developing an outdoor consignment business. Northlanders are able to sell their items to the owners, which then are resold to other folks looking to purchase new or gently used…