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Authentic Mole Poblano at Bucktales Cantina and Grill

Cooking Connection: Dee's Delicious Mole Poblano

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This week’s Cooking Connection takes us to Bucktales Cantina and Grill located south of Superior along Highway 35. Owner Dee Morales specializes in whipping up authentic Mexican dishes, but the cantina also offers a wide variety of other foods such as burgers, gyros, appetizers and more. In this week’s segment, Morales prepares a recipe with deep family…

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…

Minnesota Bigfoot Research Team Hosting Inaugural Conference

The Minnesota Bigfoot Conference is Happening Friday, August 7 - Sunday, August 9

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Over the past 20 years, Minnesota Bigfoot Research Team has grown as an organization, and now the founder is looking to celebrate in a big way. Founder Abe Del Rio is thrilled to host the first-ever Minnesota Bigfoot Conference beginning Friday, August 7, running through Sunday, August 9. The home base for the event is at…

Spirit Halloween to Open in Former Duluth Shopko Location Later This Month

DULUTH, Minn. – A new Halloween store is opening in Duluth later this month. Spirit Halloween says they plan to be open August 27 at the former Shopko located at 801 West Central Entrance. The store will be offering “a wide variety of Halloween costumes and decor including animatronics and accessories that are perfect for trick-or-treating or throwing a Halloween…

Recent Incident Sparks Plea from Wildwoods: “Stop Littering”

The Canadian Goose Caught in String Was Cut Free, Then Transferred For Further Medical Care

DULUTH, Minn. – Millions of animals are injured or even killed annually due to the careless actions of human beings. Littering – whether it be cans, containers, string, or fishing line, these materials don’t mix well when coming into contact with animals. Wildwoods Wildlife Rehab Center in Duluth is speaking out regarding a recent incident that could have taken the…

Duluth Superior Pride Festival Going Virtual Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Duluth Superior Pride Virtual Festival Begins Thursday, September 3, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – The 34th annual Duluth Superior Pride Festival will go on virtually this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Event organizers say after months of discussion, it simply wasn’t responsible to move forward with an in-person celebration as in year’s past. “I think it’s extremely important to host a virtual celebration. Pride is based on community and taking a…

Hartley Nature Center Launches August Fundraising Campaign

"We Heart Hartley" Campaign Runs August 1 - 31, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – As July wraps up, the folks at Hartley Nature Center in Duluth are thrilled to announce a month-long fundraising effort called “We Heart Hartley.” Hartley Executive Director, Tom O’Rourke said the announcement comes after the cancellation of the center’s annual August fundraiser called “Wine in the Woods.” The cancellation is due in part to the ongoing coronavirus…

Summer Harvest Provides Perfect Ingredients for Garden Vegetable Stir Fry

Cooking Connection: Garden Vegetable Stir Fry with Noodles

DULUTH, Minn. – Gardens offer ample amounts of fresh ingredients throughout the summer months, but it can be difficult to come up with the perfect recipes to help use up your entire harvest. This is a classic, “you don’t need a recipe dish.” Vary the vegetables and add a protein on the side. Chef Arlene Coco says you can even…

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…

Fresh Garden Bruschetta with Chef Arlene Coco

Cooking Connection: Garden Bruschetta

DULUTH, Minn. – Nothing represents the tastes of summer more than a fresh picked meal from the garden. In this week’s Cooking Connection, Chef Arlene Coco teaches FOX 21’s Brett Scott how to make a delicious, easily handcrafted garden bruschetta using fresh picked herbs and vegetables from a Duluth community garden. Garden Bruschetta Recipe Serving size: 6 Ingredients: 4 tablespoons…

Gov. Walz Says Mask Mandate Will Help Keep Businesses Open, Infection Rate Down

As of Saturday masks will be required in all indoor public spaces.

MINNESOTA- On Wednesday, Minnesota joined over two dozen other states in requiring masks to be worn in all indoor public places statewide. That new Executive Order by Governor Tim Walz goes into effect Saturday morning. You can find the full executive order here. “This is a small sacrifice for a potentially big gain,” Gov. Walz said. “The upside of the…

Pet Food Donations Wanted for Dog, Cat Owners in Need

Donations Are Being Accepted at Petco in Duluth, and Dan's Feed Bin in Superior

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic is not only impacting humans but animals as well. Recently Duluthian Tina Marcella, founder of PJ’s Rescue, was approached by an anonymous donor who wanted to start a pet food collection drive to help animal owners in the Duluth region who may be having a financially difficult time due to the ongoing pandemic. Pet…

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,”…

St. Luke’s Oncologist Emphasizes Importance of Routine Screenings Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Coffee Conversation: Continuing Routine Medical Exams, Cancer Screenings Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – Routine medical exams and cancer screenings are taking a back burner for many people amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a worry for many in the medical community, as this could have negative impacts in the years to come. Dr. Roberto Fernandez, a St. Luke’s Oncologist, says it’s vital for patients to come in for routine cancer…

Oasis Del Norte Serving Authentic Mexican Food Across the Northland

Cooking Connection: Mexican Street Tacos

DULUTH, Minn. – One Northland business seeing an increase in sales amid the COVID-19 pandemic is Oasis Del Norte. The food truck pops up frequently in the Northland, from Superior Street in Duluth to Castle Danger Brewery in Two Harbors. Eduardo Sandoval Luna says business is booming this summer. His recipes are authentic, coming from his mother many years ago. “These…

Bayfield City Council Approves Face Mask Ordinance

BAYFIELD, Wis. – On Wednesday night the Bayfield City Council voted unanimously to pass an ordinance requiring face coverings in indoor public spaces and most outdoor spaces in the city beginning Saturday. The ordinance states: “While indoors in any commercial business or City office, and in an Outdoor Space that is open to the general public, all customers, employees, and…

MPCA Warns of Blue-Green Algae Dangers for Dogs

Two Dogs Have Died in Minnesota This Summer After Coming into Contact with Blue-Green Algae

DULUTH, Minn. – A toxic form of algae continues to take over area lakes, rivers, and ponds. Just this summer, two dogs in Minnesota have died after swimming in water tainted by blue-green algae. As we reach the dog days of summer, officials who research the growth often are looking to alert pet owners of potential danger. “You can’t identify…

Duluth School District Provides Families, Staff With Fall Planning Survey

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth School District is asking families with children in Duluth Public Schools, as well as staff, to take part in a planning survey as they continue to weigh options for fall. “While we’re working with three scenarios provided by the state, it’s also important for us to understand the needs of our families and staff,” said…

2020 Park Point 5-Miler Includes Several Options for Runners

Park Point 5-Miler In-Person Race Happening Thursday, July 16

DULUTH, Minn. – This year’s Park Point 5-Miler will go forward with multiple options for runners amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Grandma’s Marathon has been working for weeks with guidance from the City of Duluth and the Grandma’s Marathon Medical Director to come up with a safe way to host the annual event. The plan allows the event to move forward…

Monetary Donations Matched to Feed Hungry in Duluth Throughout July

Monetary Donations Can Be Made in Person or By Mail at the Duluth Salvation Army, 215 South 27th Avenue West

DULUTH, Minn. – Monetary donations to the Duluth Salvation Army will go much further throughout the month of July thanks to a generous partnership. Thanks to a match of up to $5,000 from Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless, the more you donate this month, the bigger impact you’ll have on those facing hunger in the community. “There…

St. Louis River Alliance Continues to Make Progress Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

A Small Skeletal Crew Continues to Work on Restoration Projects Impacting the St. Louis River Estuary

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting projects small and large across the Twin Ports, and restoration along the St. Louis River estuary is no exception. Kris Eilers, Executive Director of the St. Louis River Alliance (SLRA), says her team has had to rethink the way they are doing things amid the ongoing pandemic. She’s thankful the river has…

Blasting Off for the Fourth with Delicious Desserts by Sweet Exchange

Cooking Connection: Sweet Exchange Fourth of July Cupcakes

DULUTH, Minn. – Independence Day is right around the corner, and you can’t forget dessert on the picnic table! In this week’s Cooking Connection, Lisa Quarles, pastry chef and owner of Sweet Exchange, teaches FOX 21’s Brett Scott how to make and decorate the company’s mouthwatering cupcakes. They’re red velvet with chocolate frosting, topped with a swirl of Sweet Exchange…

Lake Superior Zoo Launches Phase Two of Reopening, Membership Drive Extended

Starting Thursday, July 2, Lake Superior Zoo will Welcome Back Visitors to Indoor Exhibits

DULUTH, Minn. – The call of the wild is calling Northlanders back to the Lake Superior Zoo amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting Thursday, July 2, the zoo will begin phase two in the reopening process. This will allow visitors to once again check out indoor exhibits, just in time for the Fourth of July holiday weekend. “We’re just really excited…

Pick Your Own! Honeyberry Harvest in Full Swing at Farm LoLa

Honeyberries Have Rippened at Farm LoLa; Raspberries Will Soon Follow Suit

WRENSHALL, Minn. – In this week’s Coffee Conversation, Farm LoLa co-owner Lucie Amundsen chats about picking season as the honeyberry crops ripen and are ready to harvest. Honeyberries taste similar to a blueberry with notes of citrus toward the end. Farm Lola is located at 852 Cemetery Road in Wrenshall, Minnesota. You’re encouraged to visit Farm LoLa online, or call the…

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…

City of Duluth: Applications Now Open for Spirit Mountain Task Force

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth announced on Wednesday that they will be creating a Spirit Mountain Recreation Task Force to assist in drafting “a set of recommendations intended to help achieve financial stability” for Spirit Mountain moving forward, and applications are now open. In a recent press release, the city said Mayor Larson will be appointing nine to…

St. Luke’s Infectious Disease Doctor on Public Preparedness: “I Think There’s Room For Improvement”

St. Luke's Infectious Disease Physician Dr. Andrew Thompson Speaks on COVID-19 Preparedness in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn. – “I think there’s room for improvement, at least here in our local community,” said Dr. Andrew Thompson, Infectious Disease Specialist with St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth. Dr. Thompson made this statement when asked about his personal view on how safe and cautious residents in the Northland have been during the COVID-19 pandemic. As Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan…

Duluth YMCA on Mask Protocol, More Phased Reopening Details

The Downtown Branch of the Duluth Area Family YMCA Officially Reopened Monday, June 15

DULUTH, Minn. – The downtown branch of the Duluth Area Family YMCA officially reopened to the public Monday, June 15. Since then, new developments have come forth in the facility’s phased reopening, along with safety measures and protocols. Staff is required to wear a face mask at all times according to the Minnesota Department of Health guidelines. There are some…

Northern Lights Cutting Center Sparks Equestrian Interest in the Northland

Talmadge River Ranch, home of Northern Lights Cutting Center, is Open for Private Lessons

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s something you may have taken part in as a kid at least once or twice – horseback riding. FOX 21’s Brett Scott digs deeper into the competition world of cutting and shows how one local family is looking to share their talent with adventure seekers living in the Northland. “I think they’re shocked that it’s something…

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…

Second Harvest North Central Food Bank Ready to Help Residents in Need

Resources Are Available for All Residents in Itasca County Facing Food Insecurities

ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. -With school out and the coronavirus pandemic continuing to have a lasting impact on communities, health officials in Itasca County want to stress the importance of nutrition and food access services in the region. Second Harvest North Central Food Bank continues to provide food to 130 agencies in the region, from International Falls to Princeton. Research shows…

Experience ‘Summer Camp in a Box’ with Great Lakes Aquarium

Due to Coronavirus Concerns, The Great Lakes Aquarium Remains Closed to the Public

DULUTH, Minn. – Back in April, the Great Lakes Aquarium was forced to furlough 46 employees after Minnesota Governor Tim Walz ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses. Currently, 11 staff members report to work daily. Around 80 percent of the aquarium’s funding comes from ticket sales and field trips. Donations are being accepted through the attraction’s website to help…

Animal Allies Moves Forward With Reduced Summer Camp Class Sizes

Summer Camps Will Begin in June With Reduced Class Sizes Due to COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many summer events are canceled, but Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth has figured out a way to still host educational summer camps with restrictions in place. “We worked really hard collaborating with other humane societies to see what we could offer our community after a stressful period of sheltering in place and…

745 New Cases, 12 New Deaths Reported in Minnesota Monday Tied to COVID-19

Of the 12 New Deaths, 10 Were Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – The Minnesota Department of Health reported 745 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases and 12 new deaths Monday, bringing the total number of positive cases the state has seen so far to 21,315 and the death toll to 881. Of the 12 deaths, 10 were residents of long-term care facilities. Residents of long-term care facilities now…

Gary New Duluth Veterans Memorial Ceremony Adapts During COVID-19 Pandemic

Typically, a Large Crowd Would Have Gathered at the Gary New Duluth Veterans Memorial to Commemorate Memorial Day

DULUTH, Minn. – The Gary New Duluth community prides itself on being extremely supportive of the men and women of our military. However, this year’s Memorial Day ceremony had to be conducted virtually due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Due to the virus, residents were unable to host their annual ceremony at the Gary New Duluth Veterans Memorial, as they…

Minnesota State Fair Canceled

ST. PAUL, Minn.-The Minnesota State Fair will not be held in 2020. This was announced today following a meeting of the board of managers of the Minnesota State Agricultural Society, which governs the Minnesota State Fair. The event was scheduled for Aug. 27 through Labor Day, Sept. 7. “This isn’t a difficult decision. It’s the only decision,” said State Fair…

YMCA’s Camp Miller Announces They Will Be Open for Summer Season

Camp Miller, With Permission from Governor Tim Walz, Will Be Allowed to Host Family Camps Only

  STURGEON LAKE, Minn. – The YMCA’s Camp Miller in Sturgeon Lake, Minnesota, is celebrating its 122nd summer season this year amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Leadership learned earlier this week from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, they will be allowed to open this summer for family camps only, with restrictions in place to prevent further spread of coronavirus. “We want…

Experience Shearing Day at Frosty Ridge Alpaca Farm

Frosty Ridge Alpacas Will Soon Be Open to the Public for Free Farm Tours

DULUTH, Minn. – Can you imagine shearing more than 50 alpaca all in a matter of six hours? It happened Tuesday morning at Frosty Ridge Alpaca Farm located along Maple Grove Road in Duluth. “Believe it or not we sell more socks in the winter than the summer,” said Loni Blumerich, owner of Frosty Ridge Alpaca Farm. The process only…

Itasca County Health Officials Urge Active Living, Healthy Eating Amid COVID-19

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – As of Friday, health officials in Itasca County confirm three additional COVID-19 related deaths bringing the total to five. Three of the deceased were males in their 80s, one was a male in his 90s, and details surrounding the fifth death remain unknown at this time. Itasca County reported 42 cases of coronavirus as of Friday…

Virtual Walk for Hope Raising Awareness of Huntington’s Disease

The Virtual Walk for Hope is Happening Saturday, May 16

DULUTH, Minn. – May is Huntington’s Disease awareness month across the nation. The illness is a fatal genetic disorder causing the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. This weekend, Northlanders are encouraged to walk at their own pace and help raise awareness of the disease. The Huntington’s Disease Society of America’s (HDSA) is launching the Duluth Virtual Team…

Savor the Flavors of Spring with Fresh Buddah Bowls

Cooking Connection: Buddah Bowls with Chef Arlene Coco

DULUTH, Minn. – Buddah bowls are one of Chef Coco’s favorite things to make in late spring, early summer because they tend to be real easy to pull together and yield a wonderful combination of flavors. See below the recipe Chef Coco used in this week’s Cooking Connection. Enjoy! Sesame Soy Tofu Note from Chef Coco – I cooked this…

Tips for Keeping Ticks From Latching on to Your Pets

The CDC Recommends Using Preventative Products to Avoid Tickborne Diseases

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s that time of year again! Creepy, crawly ticks are back out and ready to latch on to you and your pets. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccines are not available for most of the tick-borne diseases that animals can get. That’s why local vets say it’s important for pet owners to…

St. Louis County Board Approves Waiving Penalties for Late Property Tax Payments

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn. – The St. Louis County Board has approved waving penalties on late property tax payments for those struggling financially due to the impacts of COVID-19. According to county officials, to be eligible property owners must fill out a short application found on the county website which can be found here. The deadline to apply for late…

2020 Duluth Monarch Festival Cancelled Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

Duluth Monarch Buddies Made the Announcement Tuesday Morning on Social Media

DULUTH, Minn. – Monarch butterflies will soon be fluttering back into the Northland, but there won’t be a festival to celebrate them this year. Duluth Monarch Buddies took to social media Tuesday morning, announcing the cancellation of the 2020 Duluth Monarch Festival. The event was scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 13. Members of the group say an outdoor…