Nachai Taylor

Duluth Councilors Pass Ordinance To Help Ease Child-Care Shortage

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s estimated at least 1,100 more child-care spots are needed in Duluth to meet the demand right now, according to the Northland Foundation.  But Monday night, city councilors voted to help ease that shortage. Councilors passed an ordinance with an 8-0 vote that allows companies and other mixed-use businesses to have a child-care facility on site. Councilor Jay…

Damiano Center Celebrates 37 years of Supporting the Community of Duluth

Last year, the community kitchen served more than 100,000 meals.

DULUTH, Minn. – On this date in 1982 the Damiano Center served its first meal in Duluth. Today, they celebrate their  37th anniversary. The community kitchen celebrated by sharing a delicious lunch with visitors. The Damiano center was founded as a temporary soup kitchen during a deep recession. Now it’s the largest emergency meal provider in Northeastern Minnesota and also…

The Headache of Potholes Can Be Costly for Drivers

Depending on the type of damage it can cost between $400 to more than $1,000 for repairs.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s no surprise this time of year potholes are a big issue in Duluth. Not only is it a headache to ride through them. It may even hurt your wallet. Big repairs are sometimes needed for damage caused when drivers hit potholes. Potholes happen when water seeps into the roads. When the water freezes the road expands, leaving…

Maritime Visitor Center Does Some Spring Cleaning

Maritime officials tell us more than 500,000 visitors check out the museum every year.

DULUTH, Minn. – Spring cleaning is underway at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center ahead of tourism season. Today about 20 volunteers spent the afternoon wiping down artifacts and polishing up the museum. Maritime officials tell us more than 500,000 visitors check out the museum every year. They’re thankful for the help from volunteers. “It’s just nice that people choose…

Duluth Heights Community Club Shuts It’s Doors

The nearly 50-year-old building has deteriorated over the years.

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Heights Community Club closed its doors this week. The nearly 50-year-old building has deteriorated over the years. Now it is no longer safe for people to operate. City Officials told Fox 21 the roof is leaking, causing the ceiling to collapse and electrical systems to be impacted. The roof would need to be rebuilt in order…

Minnesota Breweries May Be Forced to Stop Selling Growlers Under Current Barrel Cap Law

Growlers account for 30% of Castle Danger's Taproom sales.

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Several Minnesota breweries are advocating to change a law, which puts limitations on barrel production and growler sales. If the law stays the same brewery owners believe it could prevent potential business growth. In Minnesota, breweries are only allowed to produce up to 20,000 barrels of craft beer while selling growlers out of their taprooms. Right…

Moms Demand Action Fight for Stricter Gun Control

About 20 states have already enacted laws that would require background checks for all gun sales and another 14, including DC, adopted similar Red Flag Laws.

DULUTH, Minn. – Moms Demand Action in Minnesota has grown from five local groups to over twenty statewide. Members are continuing the fight to keep gun control a top priority. Under a current federal and Minnesota law background checks are only required for gun purchases at a licensed dealer. The group says that leaves an open window of opportunity for…

Child Advocates from Across the Nation Visit Duluth for Training Hosted By First Witness Child Advocacy Center

First witness will have another training course for advocates at the Duluth Institute next week.

DULUTH, Minn. – More than 15 child advocates from around the U.S. have been in Duluth this week for a three day training course hosted by First Witness Child Advocacy Center. The participants went through hands on practices and role play…. During the course they learned how to implement advocacy principles to build stronger relationships with families of abuse. A…

Life House Gets Green Light for New Annex Construction

Life House is hoping to open the new annex by summer or early fall.

DULUTH, Minn. – Good news for Life House in Duluth. Construction has begun on a project to add a new annex to its current building. The addition will become the new home for the organization’s youth education and employment program. The building will have a state of the art classroom with the latest technology. It will also house a workshop…

Snow Piles Causes Concern for Drivers in the Northland

Large snow mounds impairs drivers line of sight while on the roads.

DULUTH, Minn. – Snow mounds near intersections are reaching concerning heights and now drivers are speaking out. At almost every intersection in Duluth, snow mounds of different heights can be found. Many of them are blocking drivers’ views. Now when a driver approaches an intersection extra caution is often needed to stay safe and avoid accidents. “Its difficult to get…

Nepotism Policy Introduced at St. Louis County Board Meeting

The proposed guidelines would put limitations on any county employee from hiring and supervising a family member or significant other.

DULUTH, Minn. – It was back in January when St. Louis County Attorney Mark Rubin hired his son Tony as a prosecutor. That decision prompted the County board to introduce a nepotism policy for discussion. The non–existence of a nepotism policy within St. Louis County is sparking some controversy, but it also brought out conflicting opinions at today’s county board…

Bridgeman’s is Closed Until Tuesday for Renovations

"I think the look we are putting together is really fun. I think it kind of spans the generations," said owner Jay Broman.

DULUTH, Minn. – Heads up to breakfast and ice cream fans. Bridgeman’s in Duluth will be closed until Tuesday for phase two of renovations, which means a big facelift. Bridgeman’s has been in its current location across the street from Miller Hill Mall in Duluth since 19–74 and  changes haven’t been made since. The restaurant plans to gut the whole building,…

United Way Needs Community’s Help to Raise 40k in 40 Days

United Way will soon reach the end of their fiscal year.

DULUTH, Minn. – Head of the Lakes United Way wants to raise $40,000 in 40 days to support local organizations that help provide basic needs to people in the Northland The United Way raises money year round, but they will soon reach the end of their fiscal year. They are hoping the campaign will bring awareness to more than 50…

UWS Hosts Nearly 90 Employers from Around the Region for Annual Job Fair

I think there are some changes in the economy right now where a lot more employers are hiring right now," said Director of Career Services Cortney Alexander-Doyle

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Nearly 90 employers from around the twin ports hoped to recruit new employees at University of Wisconsin Superior today. Finding a job can be difficult for anyone in the workforce. Thanks to UWS, students and community members get a chance to network with employers from the region. The Head of the Lakes job and internship fair at…

City Officials are Hopeful for Redevelopment Plans Now That Carter Hotel Gone

"There is a real broad vision that there's great opportunity in that area," said Kristi Stokes

DULUTH, Minn. – Now that the old Carter Hotel has been torn down city officials are looking forward to opportunities to breathe new life into downtown. The city says that the deteriorating hotel had attracted graffiti and vandalism for years. They believe it had become an eye–sore to nearby businesses and there were several vacancies nearby. Kristi Stokes from the…

Sun Reflecting Off of Snow Can Be Dangerous to the Eyes

Ultra violet rays are twice as damaging to the eyes in the winter.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – When it comes to the winter we often think of ways to avoid injury, especially to our back from shoveling while also trying not to slip and fall. One area that might be neglected are your eyes. We all know it can be very difficult for drivers to see when the sun reflects off the snow, but…

UMD Could Get Big Money in Proposed Bonding Bill

"It needs serious upgrades in terms of air ventilation, life safety, and code compliance issues."

DULUTH, Minn. – Governor Walz recently announced his billion dollar proposal to fund projects statewide, including multi–million dollar plans to renovate and preserve UMD’s infrastructure. The school could get a percentage of $100 million split between all University of Minnesota campuses to preserve a former chemistry building at UMD. Also, about another $4 million dollars proposed in the bill will…

Energy-Efficient Innovations Showcased at the DECC for Minnesota Power’s 29th Annual Energy Design Conference

Nearly 40 exhibits showcased a variety of energy-efficient products, services, and practices.

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Power brings energy–efficient innovations back to Duluth for its 29th Annual Energy Design conference at the DECC. The annual conference has something for everyone. Minnesota Power works with energy conscious agencies from around the state to put spotlight on new innovations to save energy. Nearly 40 exhibits showcased a variety of energy-efficient products, services, and practices….

Methodist Church Votes to Continue a Ban on Gay Marriage and Gay Clergy

"If it was the United States' decision, we would have full equality in our United Methodist Churches."

  DULUTH, Minn. – Supporters of LGBTQ inclusion within the United Methodist Church are devastated after a final vote, at a 3-day international conference, upholds an ongoing ban of same sex weddings and gay clergy. A local Methodist Church that welcomes the LGBTQ community is now speaking out. More than half of the 800 delegates supported the final vote to…

Thousands of Kids Race in Barnebirkie on Day One of Birkie Weekend

"Birkie fever! I am a true believer!"

HAYWARD, Wis. – Barnebirkie is the one event that makes Birkie dreams happen for thousands of kids from around the region. “The Birkie gets in your blood in different ways. I’ve been coming here since I was eight or nine,” said Cordell Manz. For more than 30 years, big smiles have been seen on the bright faces of many young…

Business Picks Up in Hayward During Day One of Birkie Weekend

It's like seeing an old friend you haven't seen in forever."

HAYWARD, Wis.- Business is booming throughout Hayward as thousands of visitors are in the area for the Birkie. Over at Coop’s Pizza Parlor staff say they are seeing many returning guests who are more like family now. “I love it because some of them I won’t recognize at first,” said Coop’s waitress Lora Hills. “They come in all frosty and…

West Duluth Business Owner is Happy Snow Mounds Are Now Gone

"We're here too in West Duluth."

DULUTH, Minn. – Businesses in West Duluth are finally happy the five foot snow banks hiding their store fronts are now gone after Duluth snow crews cleared them away. One local business owner has many reason to be happy the mounds are no longer there. “We’re here too in West Duluth,” said owner of West Duluth Sewing and Design Janette Dederling….

Mail Carriers Deal With Hazardous Conditions While on Their Routes

It's all part of the job."

DULUTH, Minn. – Saint Louis County Public Works wants to remind property owners to shovel around their mail boxes to minimize the risk by damage from a snowplow. Earlier today we caught up with post office mail carrier who is dealing with those hazardous conditions. They say slippery sidewalks streets and covered mailboxes make it difficult for carriers to deliver…

Number of Snow Blower Repairs Are Getting Higher this Winter

Currently, there is a two week backup to complete repairs.

DULUTH, Minn. – Denny’s Lawn and Garden in Woodland is pretty busy repairing snow blowers this winter, after heavy snow has hit the Northland. Broken belts and gear boxes are some common causes for a snow blower to break down. Denny’s staff say banks created from plowing puts extra tension on a blower as people attempt to clear the snow…

Monthly Conversations Gets Community Talking About Environmental Issues

"One step is getting the community talking, thinking and sharing ideas."

DULUTH, Minn. – Every month organizations from around the region visit the Duluth Branch of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to talk about environmental issues affecting the region. One of the big topics today was how Duluth is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the area. Organizers say these monthly conversations are important for community involvement. “We need to…

Two Adults and Three Kids Out of a Home After a House Fire in Lakewood Township

One person treated for smoke inhalation. No other injuries reported.

LAKEWOOD TOWNSHIP, Minn. – Two adults and their three kids are without a home after a fire. The fire occurred about 11 pm last night on the 3200 block of Tischer Road in Lakewood Township. Multiple fire agencies responded to the scene. The family was already out of the house when authorities arrived. One person was treated at the scene…

Protecting Your Children This Flu Season in the Wake of First Pediatric Flu Death in Wisconsin

The virus can turn in to a more serious condition like pneumonia or an ear infection.

DULUTH, Minn. – More than a dozen flu-related deaths have happened in Wisconsin since last October. Now a child has become one of those victims. According to the CDC, children are at the highest risk of dying from flu-related symptoms. The most recent case in Wisconsin shows how important it is to protect your children this flu season. Health officials…

Funding Delays Construction Plans for New Ashland Police Department Building

"You risk a lot of officer safety."

ASHLAND, Wisc. – For over 40 years the Ashland Police Department has been in the basement of city hall. After years of planning to start building a new police station there construction is now on hold until funding is found and approved by the Ashland City Council. Officers say the current space makes it difficult to do their jobs. Without…

American Heart Association Hosted 15th Annual Go Red For Women Luncheon

One third of women's deaths are caused by heart disease or stroke.

DULUTH, Minn. – The American Heart Association celebrated women’s heart health at the 15th annual Go Red for Women lunch today at the DECC. Healthcare providers from Essentia were on hand to give blood pressure testing and provide more information about how to be aware of the risks of heart disease. Several other organizations were also available for women to…

Homeless Person’s Bill of Rights Coalition Teaches Homeless How to Survive the Cold

"I just like being able to give back."

DULUTH, Minn. – The Homeless Person’s Bill of Rights Coalition is connecting with the homeless community by starting a new group learning series. For the first time the coalition is teaching the homeless a few winter survival tips. Everyone at today’s session received a hat, warm socks and even a few tasty treats. The coalition invited a UMD Professor and…

Lake Superior College Hosts 10th Annual Student Success Day

The annual conference is designed to help students explore career options and networking opportunities.

DULUTH, Minn. – Students at Lake Superior College had the day off from regular classes today to take part in the school’s 10th annual student success day The annual conference is designed to help students explore career options and networking opportunities. Students also participated in dozens of informational sessions like learning about personal wellness. LSC’s goal was to give students…

UMD Pharmacy Students Take Part in Annual Research Symposium

Another pharmacy research symposium was also held today in the Twin Cities at the University of Minnesota.

DULUTH, Minn. – The annual research symposium was held at the College of Pharmacy today. The event is intended to showcase recent research from students and faculty. Each year a special keynote speaker is invited. Their special guest this year was a clinical pharmacist from Essentia who shared his experiences with research. Organizers are hoping the annual event encourages students…

Superior School District Extends School Day by Seven Minutes To Make Up for Snow Days

In Superior 1,050 instructional hours is required for students in grades 1-6 and 1,137 for students in grades 7- 12.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – For the 2018–2019 school year Superior schools set aside two extra days in case school had to close for bad weather. Recent snow falls have pushed the district beyond that cushion. To stay in compliance with the state of Wisconsin, the school district is now making up time by extending each school day by seven minutes starting…

Snowmobile Drivers are Asked to Be Safe After Five Deaths in Wisconsin Over the Weekend

During the 2017-2018 season The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reported 14 snowmobile deaths and Minnesota reported seven.

DULUTH, Minn. – Five people are dead after a weekend of snowmobile accidents in Wisconsin. Experts are reminding riders the importance of snowmobiling safety. Knowing the trail you are riding on is one way to ensure safety while riding a snowmobile. Also, it is recommended to never ride alone and to stay on your side of the trail. Speed is…

Safe Driving in Snowy Conditions

One thing to remember is to know your braking system.

DULUTH, Minn. -In Duluth alone, there are thousands of drivers on the roads every day. As snowy conditions continue, drivers should take extra care to be safe on the roads. Snow driving safety starts way before you actually hit the road. Drivers should clear their cars of snow and frost from windows. In Minnesota, it is against the law to…

Duluth Library Introduces Readers to Different Books through “Book Bingo”

Instead of numbers, staff called out book titles.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Downtown Duluth Library brought a new meaning to reading and bingo. Today, 20 people at the library received a bingo card. Instead of numbers,  staff called out book titles. Each winner received a free book. Grand prize winners also won a gift card to Barnes and Noble. “Book Bingo” started about three years ago and library…

Local Non-Profit Connects Women from Around Duluth at Monthly Meeting

"I think they're energy is renewed."

DULUTH, Minn. – The Empowered Women’s Network welcomes women from all backgrounds to attend their monthly meeting. The group’s mission is to connect and encourage women in many different ways. Students, retirees, and other career women were among the dozens enjoying a delicious lunch at the monthly networking event. To get to know everyone, each woman introduced themselves by giving…

Hardware Stores Trying to Keep Up as Salt and Shovels are Selling Quickly

"Actually the warehouse where get it from ran out because so much salt is being sold."

DULUTH, Minn. – Today, hardware stores are busy with people coming in to buy winter supplies. Fox 21 stopped by Marshall hardware on East Superior Street. Quite a few different types of shovels and bags of salt have been selling very quickly. Patrons are also purchasing space heaters and even heat tape to warm up the pipes in their homes….

An Economic Study Shows the LS&M Railroad Can Be More Lucrative For Duluth

The study also shows about one million dollars a year can be spent by railroad users.

DULUTH, Minn. – For generations families have ridden the Train that runs on the Lake Superior and Mississippi railroad to make lifetime memories And the Friends of Western Duluth Parks and trails partnered with the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at UMD for this survey. Friends of Western Duluth Parks and Trails is worried about a plan to shorten…

College of St. Scholastic “Snow Team” Attempts to Keep Up with Ongoing Snowfall on Campus

The grounds team is also scheduled to come in early tomorrow .

DULUTH, Minn. – All hands were on deck today at the College of St. Scholastic, as ground crews attempted to clear more than seven inches of snow that has already fallen in Duluth. About 15 campus snow crew members have been working since 5 AM this morning plowing parking lots, shoveling sidewalks and stairs. The building and grounds team incorporated…

CDC says This Year’s Flu Season Has Been Mild; MedExpress Sees Increase in Patients

"The on–set of the flu is very fast and it usually includes fever,"

DULUTH, Minn. – Across the U.S., roughly over 150 million doses of the flu vaccine are expected to be given during this flu season. Today, we stopped by the MedExpress Urgent Care in Duluth to see how the virus is affecting the community. Fortunately, this flu season has been very mild, according to the CDC, but MedExpress has seen an…

Pottery Burn is Now Open After Relocating to Superior

"This is a little bit closer to home for me. It is a central location."

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Pottery Burn is now open for business after moving from the Village Square Mall in Duluth to Tower Avenue in Superior. Customers can still expect the same fun activities like painting mugs, plates, or other pottery. The new space will also provide more room for parties and classes. There is even a gift shop for patrons to…

Teachers in Minnesota Visit Duluth for MAAP Conference

"Teaching in an alternative setting is a little unique."

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Association of Alternative Programs also known as MAAP is an organization that works to lead, support, and improve experiences in the classroom for students who may have learning disabilities. Representatives from several organizations and businesses from around Minnesota presented their expertise to educators giving ideas that could be used during the school year. Throughout the…

Students Enjoy Festivities at the 45th Annual Sno-Week at WITC

Daily prizes are given and at the end of the week one student could win $100 in cash.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College in Superior is celebrating its second day into their 45th annual Sno-Week. Today, students enjoyed a host of activities such as making photo key chains, root beer floats and participating in an interactive program with reptiles. One student volunteer we spoke to said events like this really help lift their spirits during the…

Winter Temperatures Can Be Dangerous for Stray Animals

It can be useful to check Facebook and online websites to try and find the owners of the animals.

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies has already seen about 30 strays enter their shelter since the start of 2019. Cold temperatures can be dangerous for strays and lost pets and the need for help becomes greater as winter continues. Winter is a crucial time for strays in the Northland. As temperatures continue to drop, it can be common to see…

Northland Foundation Receives Award for Combatting Childcare Crisis

More than 30% of childcare services have become "Parent Aware."

DULUTH, Minn. – Today,  the Northland Foundation was honored with the Trailblazer award, from Blue Cross Blue Shield, for their efforts to help provide better childcare in greater Minnesota. The Northland Foundation’s initiative “Parent Aware” works to help rate daycare centers along with helping parents understand which daycare fits their children’s needs. The Vice President of the foundation says the…

Polar Plunge is Back in Duluth on February 16th

530 plungers are set to participant in the annual event.

DULUTH, Minn. – Once again, A host of people from across the Northland will take a leap into Lake Superior for the Annual Polar Plunge on February 16th. The goal of the annual event is to raise money for the Special Olympics. Just last year, fundraising efforts in Minnesota finally hit more than one million dollars combined over the last…

City Crews Repair Second Water Main Found Near Mount Royal

"We have no way of warming up the pipes."

DULUTH, Minn. – City crews have been working countless hours near Mount Royal Market fixing a water main break from yesterday. During the repair they found another main that needed to be fixed and more bad pipes that continued to gush with water. City officials say as temperatures fluctuate, the ground shifts causing the pipes to snap. Officials also tell…

West Duluth Warming Shelter is Making Strides

More than 250 people have entered the facility since it's opening on January 17th.

DULUTH, Minn. – About three-fourths of visitors to CHUM have experienced some form of homelessness in their lifetime. The local organization and the homeless community could not be more grateful that the West Duluth warming center is open for use. As overnight temperatures have fallen way below zero recently, the need for use of the warming facility  has grown. So…

Subzero Temperatures Could Leave Home Brutally Cold Due to Drafty Windows

"Condensation is going to deteriorate your window, it could even possibly create mold."

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend we will get a little relief from subzero temperatures. As the frigid cold is expected to return, drafty windows can leave your home feeling frosty. Glass Guru in Duluth offers a long list of window services including diagnosing and repairing window insulation problems. Experts say the common reason a window may be drafty is typically…