Author: Graham Hakala

Agate Days Kicks Off this Weekend in Moose Lake

More than 100 vendors will be selling stones from around the globe, and even outer space

MOOSE LAKE, Minn. – Moose Lake is gearing up for another Agate Days celebration. This year’s Agate Days is the 48th annual, and features plenty of events like Art in the Park and the famous Agate Stampede. Agate Days celebrates the stones brought to the Northland by glaciers millions of years ago. “They crushed the lava rocks that held the…

City of Superior, UWS Give Storm Water Tours

Particiapnts learned more about how a city keeps its storm run-off clean

SUPERIOR, Wis. – People in Superior had the chance to learn more about how cities keep its storm waters from polluting Lake Superior. Local experts from the City of Superior and the University of Wisconsin-Superior took participants on a tour around the city, and looked at storm management systems like rain gardens. These are systems that help filter storm water…

Duluth Celebrates Lake Superior Day

Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center will host a variety of activities this weekend

DULUTH, Minn. – Lake Superior Day is on Sunday, but Duluth is celebrating the entire weekend. The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center in Canal Park will be hosting displays and discussions on Friday and Saturday relating to our lake. There will also be dancing on the lake walk in the evenings with the Fresh Water Dance Collective. “Look toward the…

Mentor Duluth Celebrates Community at Annual BBQ

DULUTH, Minn. – Rock walls, food and fun all came together at the annual Mentor Duluth Summer Barbecue on Thursday. The Harbor Highlands Community Center was bumping with energy as mentors and mentees got the chance to hang out and celebrate community. “We know that kids who have positive, caring adults in their lives, they do better,” Community Services director…

High school students take part in faith retreat at St. Scholastica

The students explore ways to help the community and learn about themselves

DULUTH, Minn. – High school students with an interest in learning more about themselves and their faith took part in a ten-day retreat in the Northland.  It’s called “The Youth Theology Institute” at st. Scholastica. The students took part in service projects to help those in need, and activities designed to help them learn more about themselves on a deeper, spiritual…

Rick Nolan holds discussions with environmental leaders

Members from the Sea Grant and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota’s 8th District Congressperson Rick Nolan was in Duluth on Friday to meet with members of the Sea Grant and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The Trump Administration had originally planned on cutting or reducing the amount of funding that these organizations receive. Through a bi–partisan effort, those funds were restored in the 2017 budget. Nolan met…

Duluth Public Library Hosts ‘Escape Room Party’ for Teens

Local teens attempt to save humanity from zombie apocalypse

DULUTH, Minn. – It was a zombie apocalypse down at the Duluth Public Library on Thursday.  That was the theme — at least for an escape room party. It’s part of the library’s summer programming for teenagers. The teens put together clues to find a cure to save humanity from the zombie takeover. Library officials say it’s important to engage…

Organizers Prepare for “A Day at The Wade”

An upcomming BBQ looks to raise funds for youth sport

DULUTH, Minn. – People are getting ready for “A Day at the Wade,” a fundraiser to raise money for youth programming in the community. The community BBQ is happening on July 19, at the Wade Stadium in Duluth. The fundraiser for youth programs like baseball, football, and robotics. Organizers say community support is vital to keeping these programs up and…

Cloquet Public Library hosts craft fair and book sale

Money raised goes to children and adult programming at the library

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Cloquet Public Library was the spot for the annual craft fair and book sale on Friday. The event is put on to help raise funds for the Friends of the Library organization. Money raised there will be used to put on adult and children programming at the library. “The library ends up being the community gathering…

Stipes Carnival opens in Cloquet

The carnival features rides, food and games

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Stipes Carnival is up and running in Cloquet. The carnival has moved from its usual spot in Voyaguer’s Park, due to the construction there. The fun and games are now located at Veteran’s Park. The carnival is open through the Fourh of July holiday. Categories: Community, Entertainment, News, News – Latest News

Disabled American Veterans Organization Serves Up Some Good Eats

The fundraiser goes to help veterans in the area

CLOQUET, Minn. – Cloquet’s Disabled American Veterans chapter served up some All-American eats to kick off 4th of July weekend. D.A.V. members set up outside the Premiere Theater offering brats, burgers and hotdogs to help raise money for local veterans, and these vets saw plenty of familiar faces. “We have a good time when the group gets together,” D.A.V. Senior…

Fireworks stands open up in the Northland

With the Fourth of July just around the corner, it's firework season.

DULUTH, Minn. – With the Fourth of July celebrations just around the corner, that means its fireworks season. Fireworks stands are opening up across the Northland. Captain Ron’s Liberty Fireworks is a locally owned stand out on the corner of Rice Lake Road and Martin Road. They say that fireworks are a great way to pay tribute to America. “That’s why…

Independent film, “No Blood of Mine” holds screening in Northland

The film is set in Duluth

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – An independent film set and shot in Duluth has made its Northland debut. A screening of the film was held in Hermantown on Monday, featuring the film “No Blood of Mine,” a murder mystery set right here in the twin ports. “I just love the town. It’s so picturesque,” writer and director Wesley Ellenwood said. “Plus about…

Duluth YMCA receives federal grant

Duluth YMCA receives funds for True North Americorps program

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth YMCA celebrated a major federal award on Friday. Duluth Mayor Emily Larson, State Representative Liz Olson and Duluth Schools Superintendent Bill Gronseth helped congratulate with the YMCA in receiving federal grant money. The funds will be used to address Duluth’s achievement gap as well as the city’s need for after school programs. True North Americorps…

FarWestFest kicks off

FarWestFest gets underway in Gary New Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Gary New Duluth is ready for an annual neighborhood tradition. FarWestFest is back. The event features live music from Aftershock, and of course fun. “There’s a lot of connections happening here,” festival founder Dan Hinnenkamp said. “Re–connections and new connections. It’s really really fun. We try to keep it family friendly, but have adult time too, so it’s a…

New Breast Cancer Detection Technology at St. Luke’s

St. Luke's unveiled its new 3d mammogram

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s unveiled new technology to help better detect breast cancer. The St. Luke’s Breast Center cut the ribbon for their brand new 3D mammogram machines on Thursday. Previously doctors only had 2 images to look at, now they can see 15 different images. Radiologists can now detect even smaller signs of breast cancer. “We know that cancers that…

Whipper Snappers get first go at Grandma’s Marathon races

Kids 14 and under hit the ground running at Bayfront Festival Park

DULUTH, Minn. – The first race of grandma’s weekend got the youngest racers out for a run. The 27th annual Whipper Snapper races had kids 14 and under dashing across Bayfront Festival park. The kids say it’s a good way to get in on the grandmas action. “I Like it because it’s a big thing for Duluth, and the kids…

DTA reroutes downtown traffic during marathon

DTA announces changes for race day

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Transit Authority has special schedules set up for grandma’s Marathon. Downtown routes will detour during the race. Eastbound routes will be on second street. Westbound routes move to first street. DTA officials advise riders to make extra time to reach their destination. “People should have a lot of patients on race day,” DTA general manager Dennis…

Local 1091 labor union celebrates 80 years

The Labor Temple in Duluth hosted a barbecue and open house

DULUTH, Minn. – Members of the 1091 labor union in Duluth celebrated a milestone Thursday. The union threw a barbecue and open house at the Labor Temple on London Road, all in honor of its 80th year in the Duluth community. Laborers and members from the business community did some reflecting on past successes over the last 8 decades. “The people…

Lincoln Park Farmers Market Kicks Off With Party

DULUTH, Minn. – Lincoln Park Farmers Market kicked off the season with a summer celebration on Thursday. It’s the fifth year for the farmers market located at the Harrison Community Center in Lincoln Park. The market is organized by Seeds of Success, and is designed to bring fresh food into a neighborhood that lacks food access. “We’re bringing fresh food…

Duluth and Superior mayors perform “Love Letters”

Emily Larson and Jim Paine take to the stage

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Duluth mayor Emily Larson and Superior mayor Jim Paine teamed up for a special performance Thursday night. The mayors performed a play called “Love Letters,” by A.R, Gurnery. Tickets and donations from the performance will benefit the non–profit theater and arts company, Twin Ports Stage. The performance was held at the Manion Theater at the University of Superior…

Cancer survivors celebrate life with loved ones

The 3rd Annual Cancer Survivorship Celebration was held in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Cancer survivors and their families had a chance to come together and show support for one another Wednesday. Miller–Dwan Foundation partnered with Caring Ways Cancer Resource Center to put on the 3rd Annual Cancer Survivorship Celebration at Clyde Iron Works. Cancer survivors enjoyed food, live music, and art. “This event can bring people together, get them to know…

North Shore Scenic Railroad hosts “Purple Train” party in honor of Prince’s birthday

Prince fans hit the rails to pay tribute to the Minnesota legend.

DULUTH, Minn. – All aboard the “Purple Train,” The North Shore Scenic Railroad honored the Minnesota legend on the rails tonight. Prince fans hopped aboard the “Purple Train” to celebrate the late musician’s birthday Wednesday evening. Fans enjoyed food, drinks, and of course, the music. “To the best of our knowledge, this is the only Prince party on a railroad,” party organizer…

Volunteers Take On ‘Chore Day’ In Two Harbors

Community Members Help Elderly Citizens Among Others

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Up the shore in Two Harbors, Head of the Lakes United Way partnered with Community Partners and Lake View Hospital for a day of helping. Volunteers went throughout the city to assist older citizens with various chores, like moving brush, as well as window washing. “This is a town that’s given a lot back to me,”…

Baby Lemur Makes Debut At Lake Superior Zoo

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s a new addition at the Lake Superior Zoo. The zoo welcomed a brand new baby lemur to its exhibit on Thursday. The baby lemur was born at the zoo recently, and is now available so see in the primate section “It’s always fun having someone new to welcome to our animal care group here,” lead zookeeper…

Duluth Public School Dist. Celebrates Retirees’ Careers

DULUTH, Minn. – Sixty employees of the Duluth Public Schools celebrated their retirements together on Thursday. From teachers to maintenance workers, to office staff, they all had the chance to honor each others careers at a reception at East High School. “I really like working with students,” retiring special education teacher Al Chepelnik said. “I liked helping them find jobs in…

Art and Science come together at the Duluth Art Institute

An artist and a scientist talk about oceanic pollution

DULUTH, Minn. – Art and science came together at the Duluth Art Institute on Thursday. Artist Kimberlee Roth teamed up with scientist Tom Hollenhorts to discuss ocean pollution, and how art can raise awareness for the problem. “As scientists, sometimes we have a hard time conveying information in an understandable way,” Hollenhorts said. “And working with artists is really an…

AT&T workers are on strike over contract negotiations

Communication Workers of America on strike over contract negotiations

DULUTH, Minn. – AT&T workers across the country are striking this weekend. Members of the Communications Workers of America union walked off the job and onto the picket lines as part of a three–day strike. The CWA’s contract with at&t expired in February. “So far, there’s been almost no movement on that,” CWA member and AT&T employee Whitney Horky said. “So…

Eighties dance party supports Choice, Unlimited.

An 80s themed party supports individuals with disabilities

DULUTH, Minn. – Downtown Duluth’s Ignite Studio invited people for a party – 1980’s style. Eighties music, 80s hair, and 80s workout gear was everywhere as folks got “physical” for a good cause. The whole thing was a fundraiser for Choice, Unlimited, an organization which helps people with disabilities lead a more active life. “We think it’s key to be out and be…

College of St. Scholastica celebrates graduation

CSS commencement held at Amsoil Arena

DULUTH, Minn. – The college of Saint Scholastica held its commencement at Amsoil Arena. Nearly 700 saints marched across the stage to pick up their degrees. 1981 Saint Scholastica grad, Patrick Schiltz gave Saturday’s commencement address. Categories: News, News – Latest News

Families walk and run for Mother’s Day

Runners and walkers get together for a good cause

DULUTH, Minn. – Mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, heck, everyone was invited to celebrate a Twin Ports Mother’s Day tradition. Runners of all ages gathered at Clyde Iron Works for the 33rd annual Duluth YMCA run/walk. Saturday’s events included Betty’s Race, Duluth’s only 5–k for women only. No matter which event they were in everyone got a good workout for a good cause….

Cloquet Community Garden is Ready for the Season

Gardeners in Cloquet have a community spot to grow

CLOQUET, Minn. – There’s a new community garden ready for gardeners in Cloquet. After two years of planning, the Cloquet Community Garden is ready to see some plants this spring. The land for the garden was donated by Zion Lutheran Church, and is available for members of the community who would like a place to plant things. “Here, it’s available, ready to…

Duluth Pack Celebrates Its Grand Reopening

Duluth Pack underwent a remodel earlier this year

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Pack in Canal Park went through a little remodeling earlier this year, and on Thurday, they celebrated their new look. The event included free beer from Dubh Linn Pub, as well as free pizza from Sammy’s Pizza. Organizers say it’s a good way to welcome the community back. “Having this event is a really great way to get…

University of Wisconsin-Superior Hosts Sexual Assault Awareness Discussion

UWS speak out against sexual assault

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – While Sexual Assault Awareness Month is in April, folks over at the University of Wisconsin-Superior are continuing the conversation, and bringing more awareness to the issue. UWS was the host for the “Speak Out Superior: Changing the Culture and Engaging New Voices. Trained advocates were on hand to talk with the community about ways to prevent sexual assault,…

Motorcyclists Rally For Safety, Fewer Deaths In 2017

Nearly 5,000 Bikers Were Killed On U.S. Roads in 2015

SUPERIOR, Wisc. –  The snow’s gone, the sun’s heating up and the pavement’s getting much busier with motorcycles hitting the road for another season. And those bikers are urging drivers to keep a serious eye out for riders to help cut down on the nearly 5,00 biker deaths a year on U.S. roads, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration….

Cloquet School Raises Funds For Playground

Our Redeemer Lutheran Preschool Holds Annual Barbecue Fundraiser

CLOQUET, Minn. – It was a great day for a barbecue as Our Redeemer Lutheran Preschool in Cloquet. It was part of a fundraiser to help fix up the school’s popular playground for the kids there. “Really, we love serving the community,”  Pastor Matt Kohl said. “We’ve been doing a lot of great things with the preschool, and we’re seeing more…

Docks Filling Up At Barker’s Island Marina

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Boaters are moving on out of hibernation and ready to take over lakes and rivers. Over at Barker’s Island in Superior, boats of all sizes are already docked and hitting the waters of Lake Superior. Despite the strange weather we’ve been experiencing over the past couple months, boaters haven’t held back. “It’s been really good,” Ship Store manager, Megan…

UMD holds commencement ceremonies

UMD students celebrate graduation

DULUTH, Minn. – Saturday was one to remember for about 2,000 University of Minnesota Duluth students. The school held its spring commencement ceremonies on Saturday at Amsoil Arena. As seniors picked up their diplomas, many grads now start their careers, but say good bye to college with advice for those following them. “Keep pushing along,” says graduate, Tyler Cogswell. “You…

Multiple Sclerosis advocates walk to bring awareness

The annual M.S. walk was held on the Lakewalk

DULUTH, Minn. – Hundreds packed Duluth’s Lakewalk to help raise awareness for the fight against Multiple Sclerosis. A group of about  250 people walked in the annual Walk M.S. fundraiser. People on hand walked for friends and family suffering from M.S. Officals say community support is important for M.S. patients. “It really lifts their spirits,” Walk M.S. coordinator, Beth Swanson said. “It really makes…

Opening day for Duluth little league players

Teams prepare for the start of the season with fun exhibition games

DULUTH, Minn. – Play ball! Saturday was opening day for the Western Duluth Little League. The league held its first ever “opening day” ceremony at their field by Wade Stadium. Little leaguers hit the field for a day of intra-squad games as a way to ease into a new season. “It’s a lot less pressure to play against their own team, learn, and kind…

Dennis Godfrey Memorial Car Show held at Lake Superior College

Students organize the annual car show

DULUTH, Minn. – Lake Superior College’s automotive program hosted its 11th annual Dennis Godfrey Memorial Car Show on Saturday. The event is organized and run by the students. “Putting on a car show like this gets them contacts,” organizer, Matthew Bisbee said. “Because there are some business owners that have vehicles entered in, so  can get to know in an informal setting…

Twin Ports organization makes Homegrown Music Festival a safer place

Feminist Action Collective members are here to help concert goers feel safe

Duluth, Minn. The Homegrown Music Festival is a really big party, and there is a local organization that is working to make sure it’s as safe as possible. Members of the Feminist Action Collective have been trained on bystander intervention techniques to help people who may be in a dangerous situation. They are wearing yellow buttons, and encouraging people to…

Boats get ready for the water

Experts say to make sure your boat is in good shape before hitting the lakes

Hermantown, Minn. With fishing season just around the corner, people are getting their boats ready for the water. Experts say its always a good idea to make sure your boat is functioning properly so you don’t get stranded out on the lake. The folks over at the Prop Shop in Hermantown say it’s important to make sure your propeller is…

Derailed Bar Hosts Fundraiser For School Damaged By Arson

Bayview Elementary Was Vandalized In April

Proctor, Minn. – People in Proctor are helping raise money for the Bayview Elementary School that was vandalized back in April. The Derailed Bar and Grill offered free tacos all day Tuesday, and encouraged people to make a donation to help the school. All of the proceeds will go toward fixing up the damaged property. “We just like to help…

Homegrown Music Festival Photo Showcase on Display

Local photographers capture the essence of the music festival.

Duluth, Minn. – Duluth’s Homegrown Music Festival is in full swing and a huge part of the week-long event is all about those photo–worthy moments. The Homegrown Photography showcase is on display at the Red Herring Lounge on East First Street. The local photographers’ shots capture the spirit of the festival on and off stage. “It’s not just photos of people…

Survivors of sexual assault break the silence

Survivors tell their stories to people who will listen

Superior, Wisc. Survivors of sexual assault are breaking the silence. They came together on Monday to speak about their experiences in a supportive environment. The Center Against Sexual and Domestic Abuse (CASDA) worked with other agencies to host the “Break the Silence” event at the Spirit Room in Superior. Sexual assault survivors were able to talk about what happened, with each…