Author: Nachai Taylor

State Senators Head To Hibbing As Ongoing Debates Continue Into Proposed Minnesota Gun Law

HIBBING, Minn. – Ongoing debates about new Minnesota gun laws continue. Several state senators traveled to Hibbing for a public informational hearing to touch on a few proposed bills addressing firearms and public safety in Minnesota Nearly 100 advocates from both ends of the spectrum of gun rights and gun control showed up to testify about their stance on the…

High School Band Students Visit CSS For Annual Honor Band Festival

DULUTH, Minn. – Nearly 100 high school students visited the College of St. Scholastica for a day of music-making. The college hosted it’s fourth annual High School Honor Band Festival. High school band directors from around the region nominated students to take part in this year’s event. The students spent the day rehearsing in preparation for their big concert at…

$1 Million In Governor Walz’s Bonding Proposal Could Fund New Manufacturing Department At LSC

The entire project will cost between $12-14 million.

DULUTH, Minn. – Governor Walz recently announced his higher education proposal. The proposal included nearly $1 million in pre-design funding for new manufacturing labs at Lake Superior College. LSC’s manufacturing department resides in downtown Duluth, but the program has outgrown the leased space over the years. If the funding is awarded, it would allow the manufacturing department to move from…

Residents And Business Owners Speak Out About Union Plow Driver Strike

"I think they should just think of people, think of the community more than they do their paychecks," said Pike Lake resident Eric Bergum.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn. – With more snow in the forecast, the lack of plow drivers out on county roads could mean major impacts for many communities Some business owners and residents, who depend on county roads being cleared, are speaking out. St. Louis County currently has more than 30 replacement drivers ready to go for when the snow comes….

Women In Construction Bond At Networking Event

DULUTH, Minn. – Dozens of women who work in the construction industry came together for a networking event at Clyde Iron Works in Lincoln Park. The women had the opportunity to participate in speed mentoring, where they were able to connect with other women to get advice on working in the industry. The ladies also got a chance to hear…

Union Plow Drivers Go On Strike; St. Louis County Responds

"We are taking this seriously. We expect them to take it seriously. We want to go back in and do a deal. Let's get this done," said Cory Garden.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn. – Dozens of union plow drivers posted up outside of more than ten public works locations hoping to get the attention of St. Louis County officials. “It’s heartbreaking because we know the impact this is having on employees. It’s disappointing, we know it has impacts on the citizens,” said St. Louis County Communications Manager Dana Kazel….

Workshop Trains Birth Workers New Practices

DULUTH, Minn. – A local organization called Spinning Babies held a workshop to train birth workers like doulas and midwives ways to better help new moms throughout their pregnancy. Throughout the session, nearly two dozen guests participated in group exercises. They learned techniques useful that birth workers and new mom can use to during and after pregnancy. A spinning babies…

Hermantown City Officials Say Plowing Will Still Get Done While Strike Happens

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Out of the thousands of miles roads maintained by St. Louis County, Hermantown has some of the busiest. With more snow on the way Hermantown city officials tell us as the strike happens, they aren’t worried that the job won’t get done. “At this point the contingency plan St. Louis County has in place, we feel comfortable…

“Can Of Worms” Project Is Still On Track

DULUTH, Minn. – In November the Minnesota Department of Transportation announced the “Can of Worms” reconstruction project came in 100-million dollars over budget. But during Monday’s monthly public meeting, MnDOT officials said the project is still right on track. To help stay within the $343 million budget MnDOT decided to hold off indefinitely on two portions of the reconstruction, which…

The Lake Superior Zoo Welcomes A New Addition To It’s Animal Family

The 300 pound tiger comes to Duluth from the South Bend Zoo in Indiana.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lake Superior Zoo is welcoming a new member to it’s animal family. A new Amur tiger named Taj will now make Duluth it’s new home. Taj arrived in Duluth last Tuesday. Lake Superior Zoo staff members say the six-year-old tiger is already beginning to get acclimated with her new home. Taj spends most of her time…

Opioid Overdoses and Deaths Rising In St. Louis County

In St. Louis County, the percentage of Narcan administered has jumped by 10% since 2018.

DULUTH, Minn. – 2019 was a record year for St. Louis County. Opioid overdoses rose from 151 in 2018 to 230 in 2019. More than 20 of those overdose victims died, which is seven more than the year before. In Duluth alone, there were nearly 200 overdoses, 15 of which were also fatal. One more death is expected to be…

Seniors Learn How To Outsmart The Scammers

According to the Federal Trade Commission nearly 15 million Americans have their identities stolen each year.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Fraud rates are on the rise and scammers are becoming sneakier with their approach. One of the reasons many people are subject to a large number of incidents of fraud and identity theft is the lack of education. At the Lew Martin Senior Center in Superior, a financial advisor from Edward Jones Investments stopped by to teach…

Magic Show Teaches Elementary Students About Bullying

  DULUTH, Minn. – While most kids were learning typical school subjects, these Piedmont Elementary School students were learning a lesson of a life with the help of a little magic. Nearly 100 students sat in Piedmont Elementary school gym, gazing at one of Duluth’s longtime illusionists. Magician and puppeteer Kelvin Saline entertained the students with some of his best…

The DTA Is Giving Free Rides To A Superior Warming Center

The free rides are provided on the first and last trips on route 16.

DULUTH, Minn. – With those cold temperatures rolling in the Duluth Transit Authority is helping to make it easier for the homeless community to have better access to local warming centers. The DTA is now offering free transportation to the Ruth House in Superior, which provides overnight shelter when temperatures drop below 40 degrees. The free rides are provided on…

Leader of Duluth And Superior Area Community Foundation Retires

Sampson's last day is June 30th.

DULUTH, Minn. – The longtime leader of the Duluth and Superior area Community Foundation will be retiring after 30 years. Holly Sampson is known her role in helping non-profit organizations to better the communities of Duluth and Superior. Under her guidance the organization has grown significantly. Donations rose from $6 million to now nearly $80 million since she started. Sampson…

St. Louis County Board Postpones Vote To Allow Refugees to Settle Within County Lines

DULUTH, Minn. – In September President Trump imposed an executive order requiring state and county governments in America to provide written consent to allow the resettlement of refugees in their areas. St. Louis County board was expected to vote whether or not to allow refugees to settle with in county lines, but instead the board voted 4-3 to postpone the…

AICHO Highlights Missing And Murdered Indigenous Women During Human Trafficking Awareness Month

  DULUTH, Minn. – statistics show native women are trafficked at ten times the rate of other populations in the region. Minnesota ranks high nationally in human trafficking cases, making events like this community gathering more significant. At the gathering, women wore red solidarity shawls and participated in a traditional dance to honor victims. The goal is to not only…

CareerForce Helps Job Seekers In The New Year

DULUTH, Minn. – In the new year, many people are looking for a fresh start, by taking on a new job or career. The CareerForce Center in Duluth is helping job -hunters achieve that goal. The organization hosted it’s weekly Job Club. Participants can get the opportunity to meet other job seekers. They also learn tips on how to create…

Anderson Furniture Building In Lincoln Park Sold

DULUTH, Minn. – The Anderson Furniture building in Lincoln Park finally has new owners. The building was purchased in early December by two local business partners. They run Lake Wood designs, which refurbishes wood for home furnishings and interior designs. One of the owners tells us they plan to convert the Anderson building into a multi-use space. A portion of…

Stauber Visits Star Of The North Maternity Home

DULUTH, Minn. – Congressman Pete Stauber visited the star of the North Maternity Home in duluth to see first hand how the new non-profit is helping women in need. The Star of the North opened its doors in June. The program provides aid and shelter to pregnant women and new moms who are experiencing homelessness. Congressman Stauber says the great…

Hermantown School District Receives $1 Million To Make Improvements To Football Field

Additional upgrades will include a new locker room facility and press box.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Hermantown School District’s football field need some major improvements. Thanks to a one million dollar donation, the district can make those need upgrades. The money was donated by Centricity Credit Union, formerly known as Hermantown Credit Union. The donation is being called a sign of good faith to establish community trust. Multiple future improvements are on…

Plant-Based Lifestyle Popular For New Year’s Resolutions

Studies show a plant-based diet really reduces your risk of cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

DULUTH, Minn. – The beginning of the year is when people are making resolutions they hope to stick with. One that has become popular in recent years is taking up a plant-based lifestyle. The Vegan Cookbook Club hosted its monthly round table, at the Mount Royal Library to help those who are hoping to explore a plant-based diet. The group…

Lake Superior Zoo Accepting Recycled Christmas Trees

Zoo staff say the Christmas trees can offer a great source of play for the animals.

DULUTH, Minn. – The holiday season is over, but the Lake Superior Zoo is hoping to continue the “gift of giving” a little while longer. The zoo is now accepting unwanted fresh Christmas trees for its animals. You can stop by the gift shop or business office to drop them off. The trees must be clear of ornaments, garland, and…

First Baby Of The Decade Delivered At St. Luke’s

"We were shocked. We assumed the New Year's baby was going to be born a little after midnight," said Jaakola.

DULUTH, Minn. Oh baby, it’s a boy! St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth welcomed not only it’s first baby of the year but of the decade. Baby Barrett Jaakola entered the world at 6:03 am, weighing in at a healthy 7 pounds, 13 ounces. Having a New Year’s baby was the farthest expectation for Cloquet mom Kate Jaakola . Baby Barrett…

Local Junk Removal Company Offering Free Christmas Tree Pickup

Pickups are only available in Duluth, Superior, and Hermantown.

DULUTH, Minn. – Some people may be just getting around to taking down their Christmas trees, but getting rid of it can be an inconvenience. Don’t worry. A local junk removal company, has got you covered. Twin Ports Trailer Trash will be offering free curbside Christmas tree pick up on January 6th and 7th. Residents can call to schedule a…

Marcus Theater Stays Open For A Fun Start To The New Year

Christmas day is the second busiest holiday for the theater.

DULUTH, Minn. – Most businesses are closed on New Year’s Day, but the Marcus Theaters in Duluth stayed open. People had the chance to check out one of the latest movies now playing. New Year’s day is typically the busiest day out of the year for Marcus Theaters. Staff say catching a movie can be a better way to make…

Duluth Public Library Welcomes The New Year Early

This is the fourth year the library has hosted the Noon Year's Eve party.

DULUTH, Minn. – Waiting until the clock strikes midnight to celebrate the new year is usually way past bedtime for most kiddos. The Duluth Public Library hosted its annual Noon Year’s Eve to help children ring in 2020 a little early. Kids made crafts like noise makers and colorful crowns. There was even a countdown, which ended with a shower…

Liquor Stores Keeping Busy On New Year’s Eve

Lake Aire Bottle shoppe sells on average 50 cases of champagne, which is nearly 600 bottles, every New Year's Eve.

DULUTH, Minn. – This New Year’s Eve, some folks are having a night out on the town while others are cozying up for a quiet night in, which means liquor stores in Duluth are busy with people stopping in to stock up. The most popular drink of choice on everyone’s list for New Year’s Eve is champagne. Lake Aire Bottle…

Some Are Rolling Into 2020 At World Of Wheels

World of Wheels is will be open new year's day from 1- 4pm.

DULUTH, Minn. – 2019 maybe almost over, but what better way than to start 2020 off than skating right into the new year. For most people the biggest celebration is done on the dance floor on New Year’s Eve. But taking a few laps around the World of Wheels roller rink can live up to just the amount of fun…

Hibbing Gets First Ever Co-Working Center

HIBBING, Minn. – A new trend of using shared workspaces is rapidly growing across the U.S. Now that trend has made it’s way to the Iron Range. A local entreprenuer has opened Hibbing’s very first co-working space called TechTank. A co-working space is where business owners and workers can share a remote office space for convenience and affordability. TechTank is…

Kids Create A Blizzard At The Superior Public Library

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A few elementary kids are making the most of their winter break, by creating their very own blizzards in jars. The Superior Public Library partnered with the University of Wisconsin-Extension to offer the free science activity. The youngsters mixed up ordinary household ingredients like Alka Seltzer tablets, baby oil, and glitter to create the snowy effect. the…

Popular Restaurant Shorty’s Is On The Market For A New Owner

"I actually had no intention of selling Shorty's even in the last year and a half. You come to the realization that at some point you have to do what's best for you," said Noel

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The popular restaurant Shorty’s in Superior is now up for sale. Shorty’s opened on Tower Avenue in 2013. More than five years later, it has blossomed into one of Superior’s favorite food spots. “I love the food here. Everybody in the area loves the food here. People come from all over the country to have our food,”…

Retailers Busy With After Christmas Returns And Exchanges

Studies show eight out of ten people will return or exchange at least one gift this year.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The holiday shopping season is a busy time leading up to Christmas, but the days after can also be packed for many retailers. This is the time when folks are making returns and exchange of those holiday gifts. Incorrect sizing or style are the most common reasons people take unwanted items, like clothing, back to the store….

WLSSD Reminds Folks To Recycle Their Fresh Christmas Trees

Twin Ports Trailer Trash is offering free Christmas tree pick ups for residents in Duluth and Superior.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Western Lake Superior Sanitary District is once again offering their “Treecycle” program to give people a place to properly dispose of their Christmas trees. Now until January 31st, people can drop off their fresh-cut trees to six of WLSSD’s convenient drop off locations in Duluth, free of charge. All trees must be stripped of any holiday…

St. Paul Church Celebrates 150th Anniversary Of First Christmas Service

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Paul Episcopal church is one of the oldest churches in duluth. This Christmas has a very special special meaning for this church’s community. In 1869, the church celebrated its first Christmas service. “We have been so blessed by our ancestors for 150 years,” said Rector Bill Van Oss. Nearly two centuries later the spirit of Christmas…

Secret Santa Donates $20,000 To The Duluth Public Library

DULUTH, Minn. – the Duluth Public Library Foundation got a special Christmas surprise. A secret Santa generously donated a check worth $20,000. Along with the check, the anonymous donor sent a letter requesting the money be added to the foundation’s endowment. The endowment is money set aside to support the library year after year. “It was so meaningful because we…

Stokke’s Holiday Food Boxes Perfect Last Minute Gift

Stokke's is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Christmas Eve and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Christmas day.

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – As many are looking for those last minute gifts this year Stokke’s Meat Market in Hermantown might have just the right thing. Stokke’s is selling holiday gift boxes with a variety of foods for everyone’s taste buds. The boxes are packed with goodies such as signature jams and pickled items. Homemade fudge and other treats can also…

Two Cloquet Ice Arenas Will Need $4 Million In Repairs

CLOQUET, Minn. – Both the Northwood’s Credit Union Arena and the Pine Valley Ice Arena in Cloquet are in need of repairs. The city of Cloquet arranged an audit to determine what needs to be upgraded. it estimated those repairs will cost nearly $4 million. But that sum will be spread out over several years. The Northwood’s Credit Union arena…