Author: Arman Rahman

Glensheen Gardens Give for 12 Years

Vegetable Gardens Celebrate 12 Years with Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank

DULUTH, Minn.- Since 2006, the Glensheen Vegetable Gardens have donated over 2,000 pounds of produce a year to the Second Harvest Food Bank, helping make over 10,000 meals for those in need. And this September, everyone can see what the gardens have to offer at their weekly Chef in the Garden show. Audiences will watch a Blackwoods chef in the gardens,…

West Duluth Kids Given the Gift of Backpacks

Backpack Drive Held in Memorial Park

WEST DULUTH, Minn.- Getting school supplies was a lot more fun for kids in West Duluth, as a Backpack Giveaway Event was held in Memorial Park on Sunday. Thanks to the Valley Youth Center, many kids got a backpack boost back into school, without breaking the bank. Since July the Center collected over 380 backpacks, and stuffed them with school…

Northern Wisconsin Bonkers for Bats

7th Annual Bat Festival Takes Place at Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center

ASHLAND, Wis.- Northlanders are going bat–crazy as the 7th annual Wisconsin Bat Festival comes up north from the Madison/Milwaukee area for the first time. It seems bats have always suffered an image problem, never associated with anything good, accept for Batman. But biologists say, there’s so much more to these furry flyers. “One little Brown Bat that we have right here…

Wisconsin Helps Veterans Settle Down

New Phase of Think, Make, Happen Wisconsin Launched at Jack Links HQ

MINONG, Wis. – Hundreds of thousands of veterans return home from service each year, which they say is both rewarding, and daunting. State officials think Wisconsin would be an excellent place to transition, and they’re willing to bet $1.9 million on it. So far, Wisconsin has proven to be a good place for vets to find jobs. According to the Bureau…

Grant for Nurses in Training at St. Scholastica

Federal Grant Announced for Undergraduate Nurses

Duluth, Minn.- The Undergraduate School of Nursing at St. Scholastica was given a big gift. A nearly $3 million grant from the Department of Health and Human Services. The funding is meant to advance the college’s shifting focus to more quality care in rural and under-served areas. School officials say that fostering nurses to have broader, more intimate techniques in…

Snacks, Swag and Smiles at Summer Carnival

9th Annual Summer Carnival Held at Viewcrest

Duluth, Minn.- Families were invited to Viewcrest Health Center  to join residents for a free, fun day filled with games, food, and goldfish prizes, at their 9th annual Summer Carnival. The senior living facility opened up their yard and their indoor park for the staff’s families and the community. There was plenty of cotton candy around. But most importantly, kids got…

Douglas County Officials and FEMA Meet and Discuss

Federal Assistance Application Has New Elements

Superior, WI- Massive flooding devastated parts of Northwestern Wisconsin back in June. As recovery from that damage continues, FEMA and Wisconsin Emergency Management experts met at the Douglas County Government Center to discuss applications for federal assistance. The storms caused an estimated $3.8 million in damage in Douglas County alone. While many repairs have been completed by area townships, many…

Skating Before School

World Of Wheels Invites Families for Free Skating

Superior, WI- Before trudging back to school kids got one last hoorah thanks to the World of Wheels skate rink. The family–run skate rink invited Superior families to skate for free today. Kids could also play any of the many games, munch on some food, or compete in a drawing for school supplies. “Having the kids here, giving back some…

Dragon Boats Dwell in Superior

Training and Preparations Underway for Dragonboat Festival

Superior, WI- A tradition with roots in ancient China continues this weekend in the Northland. It’s the Dragon Boat Festival, and the rowers have been hard at work preparing. There Be Dragons in Lake Superior, as Dragon Boats and their riders arrived to train for the 16th Annual Dragon Boat Festival. Rowers gathered on the shores of Barker’s Island Marina to…

New Democratic Campaign Office Opens

Superior Location Stayed in Building, Changed Rooms

Superior, WI- Democrats in Superior now have a new hub, which opened Wednesday. The new campaign field office is located in the same Board of Trade building on Tower, but they moved to a new room. Democrats say they view it as a resource center where people can come get information about voting and the candidates. They can also sign…

Entrepreneur Fund Gets Big Donation from GRE

Great River Energy Donates A Million Dollars

DULUTH, Minn.- Northland entrepreneurs now have more financial resources available. Great River Energy is donating a million dollars to the Entrepreneur Fund. That fund has been helping entrepreneurs with funding and business strategies for almost 30 years now. The million dollar check will help small business owners continue to have a big impact in their communities. “Entrepreneurs really bring a…

Burial Ground Restoration Concerns Unaddressed

MnDot Meets with Frustrated Fond Du Lac Residents and Native Americans at Chambers Grove Park

Duluth, Minn.- There is growing anger from the Native American Community and people who live in the Fond Du Lac neighborhood. They say they’ve got more questions than answers involving the ongoing restoration of a sacred Native American Burial Site, that was accidentally unearthed more than a year ago by MnDOT workers. On Thursday dozens of disgruntled Fond Du Lac…

Health Center Hoopla

Lake Superior Health Center Hosts Block Party

Duluth, Minn.- Lake Superior Health Center in Duluth is celebrating its accomplishments and its patients, while raising awareness for overall health in the community, during National Health Center Week. On Wednesday Aug 15, the Health Center held a block party, filled with live music, games, crafts, The Flash and his trusty sideckick Super Chicken, and free hotdogs. They even gave…

Blue-Green Algae Blots Lake Superior

UMD Researchers Look into Source of Algae

Duluth, Minn.- For years we’ve been warned to lookout for blue-green algae blooms in local lakes and rivers. But just a few days ago, it bloomed somewhere no one saw coming: Lake Superior. Patches of blooms were reportedly 50 miles long between the Twin Ports and Apostle Islands. Now researchers at UMD’s Large Lake Observatory are trying to figure out…

At Rest, At Last

Sgt. Rufus Ketchum Buried in Calvary Cemetery

Superior, WI- The bugle plays, mourning for this long overdue military funeral. Sergeant Rufus Lloyd Ketchum, being laid to rest 68 years after his death. Full military honors for this army veteran, surrounded by a crowd, who’s size is a testament to the sacrifice he made. ‘I’ve seen military funerals before, but never one of this magnitude,” said Sgt. Jeremy Walworth,…

Anytime Fitness Keeps Firefighters Fit

Superior Fire Dept Receives Donation of Fitness Equipment

Superior, WI- Normally firefighters are the ones helping people out. But on Tuesday, they got some much needed help from a local gym. Anytime Fitness donated fitness equipment to the Superior Fire Department, as part of the Department’s Wellness Initiative. Most of the 28 pieces of equipment will go to their new headquarters. The Fire Department said what they received…

Seaway Port Authority Names First Female Director

Deb DeLuca Appointed as Chief Executive Director

Duluth, Minn.- The Duluth Seaway Port Authority is celebrating its first–ever female Executive Director, in the port’s 60-year history. On Monday, Deb DeLuca was officially appointed to the position, starting this Thursday, Aug 16th. She’s not new to the Port Authority. DeLuca previously held the title of Government and Environmental Affairs Director since 2014. “The biggest task in front of us…

Knocking Doors for Voting Youth

Local Youth Organizaiton Encourages Peers to Vote

Duluth, Minn- This is the first year where millennial voters are projected to outnumber baby boomers in the state’s November general election. Some young Minnesotans are taking to the streets to get their peers to vote. Members of the Minnesota Youth Power Collective didn’t let the heat stop them, as they hit the houses of West Duluth, rallying fellow young…

Paws, Pins and Pints Parades Pooches

Duluth Dogs and Owners Out at Country Lanes North

Duluth, Minn.- The dogs took over Duluth to bowl and have a few drinks –at least their owners did. It’s all part of the “Paws, Pins and Pints” fundraising event at Country Lanes North. Where proceeds help out Animal Allies Humane Society. “Fun. And that’s what we want,” said co-organizer Cheryl Brandt. “Everyone’s having a good time. People love taking pictures of…

Sami Soiree of Culture and Fun

North American Sami Gathering held in Park Point

Duluth, Minn.- Duluth was the center of a cultural congregation this weekend. The Sami Cultural center of North America hosted a gathering for North American Sami at the Lafayette Community Center. Sami from as far away as Alaska and Canada came out for the event. According to organizers, Duluth is full of Sami. “Because we are a gathering for Scandinavian…

At Home, At Rest, At Peace

Korean War Vet's Remains Returned to Superior for Burial

Superior, WI- After 67 years missing, the remains of Korean War veteran Rufus Ketchum of Superior are finally back home, before officially being laid to rest. On Sunday the Blatnik Bridge carried more than just the cars riding between Duluth and Superior, it carried a fallen war hero home. The remains of Sergeant Rufus Lloyd Ketchum rode the bridge home for the…

Bustin Out the Blues at Bayfront Park

30th Annual Blues Fest Takes Place

Duluth, Minn.- It’s time to get out your guitars and harmonicas, ’cause Duluth is crying the blues this weekend. The 30th Annual Blues Festival took over Bayfront Festival Park. Hardened men hunch over pianos, or cradle guitars, playfully hopping along notes on the stage at Bayfront. The music commands the crowd to move and sway. And Duluth crowds are known to…

Bikers Band Against Bullies

Syd's Angel Bikers Against Bullies

Superior, WI- Northland kids that suffer from bullying are got some help, but the helpers may not be who you expect. On Saturday Aug 11th, the Syd’s Angels Bikers Against Bullies rally started at the Powerhouse Bar in Proctor in the morning, and later stopped at the World of Wheels skate rink in Superior. If you think it’s weird that burly…

St. Louis County Fair Full of Fun

134th Fair Continues in Chisholm

Chisholm, Minn.- It’s the kids excitement for adventurous rides, furry animals, and delicious food that keeps this fair going for 134 years. “We got on some rides, and saw the animals.” said young fair-goer Lilly Jola. Her and her sister Ava share a favorite ride: the Caterpillar roller coaster. Being around for 134 years makes the fair a token of many…

Pasta Over Pence

'Penne Not Pence' Dinner for those Against Administration

Duluth, Minn.- While Vice President Pence was entertaining crowds and raising funds for Pete Stauber, a completely different type of fundraiser happened at the Dr. Robert Powless Cultural Center in Duluth. The Loaves and Fishes Community hosted a “Penne Not Pence” Dinner. Open to the public, they served a plate of pasta for only 10 cents. Organizers said the small,…

Stauber Starstruck as Pence Endorses

Pete Stauber is Now Endorsed by the President and Vice President

Duluth, Minn.-Vice President Pence visits Duluth just days before Minnesota’s Primary Election. Republicans have their sights set on flipping the Democratic state to Republican next year. Pence made it clear during his visit that he’s supporting Pete Stauber’s campaign for the 8th Congressional District. President Trump stopped in Duluth in June to Endorse Stauber. The candidate says he’s extremely humbled…

Suspect Charged In Life-Threatening Assault Over Cigarette

Duluth, Minn.- What started as a dispute over a simple cigarette has ended in life-changing consequences for the suspect, and an uncertain recovery for the victim. 22-year-old Chazz Joseph Smith of Duluth has been charged with first-degree assault in St. Louis County Court. The criminal complaint states Smith and the 27 year-old victim had a verbal dispute over a cigarette….

Float On to A&W for National Root Beer Float Day

Restaurant Gives Out Free Root Beer Floats and Accepts Donations for Charity

Superior, WI- Many Northlanders were feelin’ the heat this week. To cool off, they could head to A&W for a free root beer float this National Root Beer Float Day. The Superior A&W restaurant gave out free root beer floats for the holiday. While enjoying that sweet foamy treat, you could also give to others. Donations were encouraged to support the…

Putt for Vets at World’s Largest Golf Outing

Fundraiser Held at Lester and Enger Parks for Fisher House Foundation

Duluth, Minn.- The Fisher House Foundation got a hole in one thanks to the World’s Largest Golf Outing fundraiser. The event took place at both Lester and Enger Park golf courses. Golfers hitting the links could win raffle prizes donated by UMD and golf gear suppliers. The weather was also on par to make this year a big hit. “Last year…

State Rep. Tackles Sexual Harassment With Roundtable

Rep. Erin May-Quade Holds Roundtable at Building For Women

Duluth, Minn.- Local businesses and nonprofits sat with local leaders today to discuss the issues of sexual violence and harassment. Seven members of different businesses and nonprofits met with State Representative and DFL candidate for Lieutenant Governor Erin Maye-Quade at Duluth’s Building for Women to discuss how they’re combating sexual harassment and sexual violence. Organizations represented included the PAVSA and the…

Thomas is In Town!

Day Out with Thomas Kicks Off

Duluth, Minn-The parking lot of the Depot looks more like a street festival. But the air hung low, anticipation stirring. Suddenly, excitement rushes with the kids to greet the one and only Thomas the Tank Engine, as he returns from the last trip of the day. With over 22,000 attendees in the past years, and this year looking to surpass…

Teens Superior at Dungeons and Dragons

New Weekly Club at Superior Public Library

Superior, WI- Some teens in Superior are having a medieval summer thanks to two girls from Superior and Elk Mound High School. The pair started a weekly Dungeons and Dragons tournament for a senior community project. So for a few hours at ye olde library every Thursday, as long as ye be twixt the ages of 13-17, the quest calls to…

Duluth Rises Above Seizures

Epilepsy Foundation hosts Annual Walk to Raise Money and Awareness

Duluth, Minn- 1 out of 10 people have seizures in their life. Now epilepsy occurs when a person has two or more seizures at a time, and 1 out of 26 have it, with some not even knowing until much later in life. At Park Point, epileptics and their supporters connected, and walked, to rise above seizures. Around 300–400 people arrived…

Spirit Valley Days Parade Paints the Pavement

39th Annual Spirit Valley Days Continues

West Duluth, Minn- Spirit Valley Days continued with the Annual Parade down Central Avenue. The parade has been going on since 1979. Politicians, schools, and organizations all got to soak in the cheers going down Central Avenue The parade even featured some local royalty. “It’s just like the sense of community,” said Rachel Skwira-Brown, crowned Miss West Duluth this year. “And…

Olympian Book Signing at Fitger’s

Duluth Native Olympian Kara Goucher Signs Her Book and Speaks

Duluth, Minn- A famous Duluth Olympian came back home for a book signing. Kara Goucher welcomed fans to meet her at Fitger’s today, while she signed copies of her new book “Strong: a Runner’s Guide to Boosting Confidence and Becoming the Best Version of You.” Fans and fellow runners say living in a place she loves to train makes them…

Spirit Valley Days Kicks Off with a VROOM

The Kyle Smalley Auto Show marked the beginning of Spirit Valley Days

Spirit Valley, Minn- The popular Spirit valley days in West Duluth, that started back in 1979. The festival has kicked off for another summer weekend. And to start, it’s all about classic cars with the Kyle Smalley Auto Show. Dozens of car enthusiasts showed off their rides to the neighborhood on Grand Avenue for all to enjoy. For some motorists, it’s the…

Season of Backpack Adoption

Duluth Residents Adopt Backpacks for Kids

Duluth, Minn.- If you can believe it, summer break will soon be a thing of the past. We’re only a few weeks out from the start of the new school year. As school supply shopping kicks off around the country, you can buy a few extra supplies for a child in need through the CHUM Center. Now through the 17th you…

Locomotive Luminary Lands at the Depot

Thomas and Percy Roll In for Day Out With Thomas

Duluth, Minn- Duluth Children (and train lovers), rejoice! Thomas the Tank Engine and his pal, Percy have arrived at the Depot. For now the engines are exhausted from their excursion to get here. They’re resting, gearing up for their big debuts at the Day Out with Thomas this Friday. The trains will be ready for rides and all type of…

Superior Gratefully Gives Goodies to Storm Drain Adopters

Volunteers Thanked, Taught New Stream Monitoring Techniques

Superior, WI- The Superior Public Works Department thanked Volunteer Storm Drain Adopters, and taught them how to sample the water of Faxson Creek as a new stream monitoring system kicked off. Around 30 volunteers of all ages met at Central Park to learn how to sample the creek water for sediment, salt, temperature, and dissolved oxygen, all of which they found…

Thomas Makes His Way to the Duluth Depot

Final Preparations for Day Out with Thomas

Duluth, Minn.- Thomas the Tank Engine and his friend Percy are on their way back for some summer fun at the Duluth Depot. Crews with the North Shore Scenic Railroad have been preparing for the big arrival since December. So far 10,000 tickets have already been sold out of the 18,000 tickets expected to be purchased over the next two…

Friends of Animals Begins Closure

The 35 Year Old Shelter Enters its Final Week

Cloquet, Minn-The financial pressure hasn’t changed for the better for the “Friends of Animals Humane Society.”It’s closing its doors on Aug 5th. And the animals need to go to new homes now. Less than seven days until the cash-strapped doors are locked indefinitely. 10 cats climb, scratch, and play, unaware of the fate of their current home. And for their…

Bunches Out for Blueberries and Baubles

Ely Hosts Blueberry Art Festival

Ely, Minn- Ely was ripe for the picking as the 38th Annual Blueberry Arts Festival took place. The small town became a bustling metropolis as the Blueberry Festival brought bunches of Minnesotans, other Americans, and even foreigners to Whiteside Park. “Ely is a huge destination for people from all over the world. So we do have people from other countries at…

Pedestrians for Pitbull Positivity

2nd Walk with a Pitbull Held at Leif Erickson Park

Duluth, Minn- Duluth’s Leif Erickson park went to the dogs as a group walked to promote Pitbull awareness. Organized by nicepitbull.com, the walk was to promote Pitbull Positivity, and debunk negative Pitbull stereotypes. Many think of Pitbulls as angry, antisocial, and the start of most dog attacks. Yet according to the CDC, fatal dog attacks are not breed specific. “Pitbulls…

Bowfest in Full Swing

Archer's Find their Paradise in Superior

Superior, WI- The hills of Mont Du Lac become a plastic forest as elk, deer, bears and even dinosaurs come out….to get shot… at the 2nd Annual Bowfest. The air is filled with the “thwip” of arrows leaving bows and meeting their targets. Sunlight glisten off the shiny bows hanging patiently on archers’ shoulders. In terms of competition, even friends…

Volunteers Pack 40 Backpacks for Homeless Vets

Superior Elks Lodge Members Pack Backpacks for Homeless Veterans

Superior, WI- You’ve probably heard of backpacks for kids, but the Superior Elks Lodge #236 is trying backpacks for vets. Members gathered to pack 40 backpacks to distribute to homeless veterans on the streets of Superior. And it can mean everything to them. “When you see the spark in their eyes when they get some of the stuff, they actually…

Bowfest a Bullseye Bonanza for Bowhunters

2nd Annual Bowfest Begins

Superior, WI-Bows at the ready, Robin Hoods everywhere. The 2nd Annual Bowfest has begun in Superior. The Mont Du Lac Resort is now crawling with archers anxious to execute some targets. Equipment and food vendors are also propped up on the hill. You can choose from stationary, moving, distance or aerial targets. Not only do they look the part, they…

Duluth Brew-Haha

Organizers Gear Up for 7th Annual All Pints North

Duluth, Minn-The 7th Annual All Pints North Brew Fest is brewing. and ready to pour out to thousands at Bayfront Festival Park. For beer lovers this is really the most wonderful time of the year in Duluth. Bayfront will be packed with more than three thousand people sampling hundreds of different kinds of craft beer from 120–plus breweries across the…

Local Loveliness

Duluth Rose Garden in Full Bloom

Duluth, Minn.- Some clouds and cooler air didn’t stop people from getting a whiff of the flowers at Duluth’s Rose garden today. It was so perfect thoughts of romance were even in the air. “This would be a good spot for proposing to somebody, yknow?” said Koua Chang, visiting from St. Paul. Chang, a California native, equates the Rose Garden and…