Author: Sophie Varner

Duluth Parks & Recreation Crews Busy Grooming Cross-Country Ski Trails

DULUTH, Minn.–Cross-country skiing is a popular activity for many in the Northland, but keeping the trails groomed between snowstorms can be a full-time job. With Duluth seeing nearly 3 feet of snow in the past few weeks, some may say the conditions are a snow bunny’s dream, but having to clear off over 30 miles of cross-country ski trails may…

Globe News Changing Ownership By Start of New Year

Globe News has been a collector's dream on the corner of Belknap Street and Tower Avenue for 40 years.

SUPERIOR, Wisc.–The old-school, one-stop-shop, Globe News in Superior, Wisconsin will have new owners by January 1st, 2023. Globe News has been a collector’s dream on the corner of Belknap Street and Tower Avenue for 40 years. Starting off as a news stand selling only magazines and newspapers, longtime owner Tom Unterberger has expanded his inventory to include sports cards, comic…

Worldwide “Skate for Ukraine” Fundraiser Comes to Duluth

The Duluth Heritage Center is hosting a virtual skating event in which skaters and their families can support Ukrainian players and others affected by the war.

DULUTH, Minn.–This holiday season, hockey players and fans worldwide are standing with players from Ukraine. The problem is that many of Ukraine’s players are serving on the frontlines. The Duluth Heritage Center is hosting a virtual skating event in which skaters and their families can support Ukrainian players and others affected by the war. After the Russian invasion, the Ukraine…

DPD Public Information Officer And Postmasters Reminding Residents of Front Porch Theft During Holidays

DULUTH, Minn.–‘Tis the season for giving and receiving. As packages get dropped of on front steps, you’ll want to avoid leaving them unattended if you can. With the holidays being a busier time of year for ordering packages, your porch may start to pile up. This can present and appealing scenario for porch pirates. Thieves that specifically wait to steal…

Cenovus Awards $50,000 to Student-Led Manufacturing Program

Spartan Manufacturing is a student-led curriculum focused on learning hands-on skills at Superior High School

SUPERIOR, Wisc.–Superior High School’s technical education program received an early Christmas gift Wednesday. They recently founded Spartan Manufacturing and got a big donation from Cenovus Energy. Established earlier this year, Spartan Manufacturing is a student-led curriculum focused on learning hands-on skills. It not only educates students about how to make things or weld, but encourages students to explore all their…

New License Plates Raise Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People

CARLTON, Minn.–Tribal leaders gathered at Black Bear Casino Tuesday to raise awareness for missing and murdered indigenous people in a unique way. New vehicle license plates have been designed using the symbol of a red hand, a logo nationally recognized to honor native men, women and relatives who have gone missing or have died. The Fond du Lac Band of…

MN Power Crews Still Restoring Power in the Northland

While the crews have restored power to over 3,800 customers, as of 7:30 p.m. Saturday there are still 400 customer without it.

DULUTH, Minn.–Even with the snow slowing down, crews with Minnesota Power are still working hard to restore power. More than 100 additional line workers from Kansas City Power & Light have been brought in. Excavators were also brought in from Ulland Brothers near Moose Lake to help clear snow off of trees that are blocking main power lines and causing…

Wreaths Across America Ceremony Takes Place at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Saginaw, Minnesota

Wreaths Across America is a non-profit organization founded in 1992 with a mission to remember the fallen, honor those that serve, and teach the next generation the importance of honoring servicemembers.

SAGINAW, Minn.–Saturday is a day to remember the fallen and honor those who serve. It was National Wreaths Across America Day where veteran cemeteries across the country are honored with holiday wreaths. Wreaths Across America is a non-profit organization founded in 1992 with a mission to remember the fallen, honor those that serve, and teach the next generation the importance…

Minnesota Nurses Association to Ratify New 3 Year Contracts With Hospitals

MINNESOTA–Members of the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) announced they have voted to ratify the tentative 3 year contract agreements with hospitals across the state. In a live press conference Wednesday afternoon, MNA President stated that nurses overwhelmingly voted to go forward with the tentative agreements that were reached last week. This vote has averted a strike planned to involve 15,000…

Nathan Bentley Honored at County Board Meeting for Pandemic Aid

DULUTH, Minn.–St. Louis County commissioners kicked off their board meeting Tuesday with a surprise thank you to Nathan Bentley. The Founder of Bentleyville had helped provide the county vital protective gear during the early days of the pandemic. Back in the spring of 2020, the county found themselves limited with access to personal protective equipment for frontline workers. With Bentleyville…

Local Mechanics Give Winter Tire Tips

HERMANTOWN, Minn.–The winter season is upon us and one way to avoid slipping and sliding on the roads is to make sure your tires are in good condition. We asked local professionals what key factors to keep in mind when switching out tires for different seasons. Mechanics over at Pro Tires in Hermantown say it all comes down to what…

148th Fighter Wing’s Starbase Hosts Young People for STEM Event

DULUTH, Minn.–Young professionals gathered Thursday at the 148th Fighter Wing to talk about all things S.T.E.M. The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce has developed a program titled Fuse aimed at connecting community members with local professionals to expose them to different career opportunities. The Chamber hosts several interactive luncheons with their Fuse members. Thursday’s get together took place at the…

Give a Gift By Participating in ‘Make Every Child Smile’ Toy Drive

The big distribution day is on December 18, 2022, at the juice shop "Shake It" on 5801 Grand Avenue, Duluth, MN 55807.

DULUTH, Minn.–While many people are out shopping for loved ones, there’s an opportunity to be the ultimate Secret Santa with the ‘Make Every Child Smile’ toy drive. Organizer, Mike Letica, tells us it a way to make sure kids in Duluth have something to unwrap over the holidays. There’s no income restrictions or sign-up requirements. When all donations are collected,…

Participate In MnDOT’s “Name A Snowplow” Contest

The deadline to submit your idea is December 16.

MINNESOTA — MnDOT is asking for the public’s assistance in helping participate in the annual, “Name a Snowplow” contest. They’re looking to give a name to 8 different snowplows across the state, one for each district MnDOT covers. All you have to do is come up with a creative phrase or pun and submit your idea on the agency’s website….

‘Merry Little Book Sale’ Now Open At Superior Public Library

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The Superior Public Library has transformed into the “Merry Little Book Sale.” The Friends of the Superior Library organization puts on the book sale around the holidays every year. The books are unmarked, clean and ready for gift-giving. “We try to make it a festive holiday event, bring people to the library, and also raise some money…

Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation Offering $800,000 in Scholarships

DULUTH, Minn.–Students looking for 2023 scholarship opportunities can now apply for funds offered through the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. The Foundation has more than $800,000 to disperse to applicants, meaning students can choose from over 80 different scholarships. The applicants don’t have to be traditional college students, the Foundation is looking to award money to anyone pursuing studies at…

The DECC Transforms Its Space in Preparation for Winter Village

DULUTH, Minn.–It’s only Dec. 1, but the DECC is already decked out with holiday décor for this weekend’s Winter Village. The Winter Village provides a space for local creators to display the goodies. Along Harbor Drive, the outdoor cabin-like booths are all ready fore vendors to move their goods in Friday. Staff at the DECC spent the day decorating, so…

Local Event Decorator Helps with White House Holiday Decorating

Kynze Lundeen was among more than 150 people who volunteered their time to help with decorations.

DULUTH, Minn.–It’s officially the holidays when the White House gets dressed up for the occasion. One local Duluthian was selected to help with the process. Every year, the White House recruits volunteers from across the nation to help deck the halls. Kynze Lundeen was among more than 150 people who volunteered their time to help with decorations. This was Lundeen’s…

Duluth Children’s Museum Recognizing “Giving Tuesday” With Free Admission

DULUTH, Minn.–Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday are over and out. Tuesday is all about “Giving Tuesday”, aimed to support charities and special causes. It’s an effort much like “Give to the Max Day”, which Minnesotans took part in 2 weeks ago, but “Giving Tuesday” is doesn’t just focus on online donations like “Give to the Max Day”….

Menard’s Holds Special Tree For Community Members to “Be a Santa to a Senior”

DULUTH, Minn.–Over at Menard’s in Duluth, there’s a special tree in the entrance called “Be a Santa to a Senior”. The tree is full of gift wishes by 250 local seniors, including some veterans. Most of the requests aren’t extravagant, they’re mostly daily use items someone needs. Menard’s Store Manager, Tom Hanson, said, “We want to thank everyone for all…

Virginia Man Sentenced for 2021 Murder of Ex-Girlfriend

VIRGINIA, Minn.–A Virginia man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend last year, has been sentenced to a little more than 48 years in prison. 42-year-old Derek Malevich was sentenced to 583 months in prison, for the murder of 32 year old Kristin Bicking. According to a release from the St. Louis County Attorney’s office, today Malevich received 2 consecutive prison sentences….

Out-Of-Town Shoppers Spend Black Friday At Fitger’s Complex

This year the National Retail Federation is estimated a record of over 166 million people to participate in early holiday shopping this weekend.

DULUTH, Minn.–You could say Black Friday was a success down at the Fitger’s Complex with heavy foot traffic filling the halls. This year the National Retail Federation estimates a record of over 166 million people to participate in early holiday shopping this weekend. With 15 shops, 5 dining venues, and a brewery, it’s really one-stop-shop whether you’re shopping for yourself…

Lester River Sawmill Changes Ownership After 42 Years

The Lester River Sawmill in Rice Lake Township has been a long supplier of locally harvested timber products for Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin.

RICE LAKE TOWNSHIP, Minn.–A locally owned sawmill, that’s been around since 1980, has changed ownership and there’s plans to expand it’s product. The Lester River Sawmill in Rice Lake Township has been a long supplier of locally harvested timber products for Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. New owner Will Feyder has a background in mechanical engineering. He’s keeping the operational side…

Dec. 8 Concert At Pier B To Benefit ‘Best Christmas Ever’ Organization

DULUTH, Minn.–If you like Christmas, live music, and helping others, there’s a fundraiser event happening at Pier B Resort Hotel on Dec. 8. The Laura Velvet Band and Big Wave Dave and the Ripples are hosting a fundraising concert. All proceeds will benefit Best Christmas Ever, which is a non-profit that helps bring joy to nominated families who have fallen…

Downtown Computer Launches Security System at Bentleyville

DULUTH, Minn.–Eagle eyes are coming back to ‘Bentleyville Tour of Lights’ for a second year in a row to help deter any Grinches trying to steal Christmas down at Bayfront. Downtown Computer is once against donating a multi-camera security system throughout Bayfront Park during the Tour of Lights. The cameras record and can be accessed remotely 24-7. The partnership between…

St. Luke’s Unveils Remodeled Hospice And Oncology Inpatient Units

DULUTH, Minn. — St. Luke’s leadership came together Wednesday to recognize the remodel of its Hospice & Oncology Inpatient Unit. $1.1 million was awarded to help modernize these specific areas as part of Phase II of St. Luke’s health Forward Initiative. The inpatient rooms are now completely private throughout the unit and the bathrooms have become handicap accessible. The expansion…

Midtowne Skatepark Equipment Transported To Keene Creek Park

DULUTH, Minn. — Now that the demolition of the overpasses near Midtowne Park has begun, skateboarders can still access those ramps and rails over at Keene Creek Park. The Minnesota Department of Transportation dismantled the Lincoln Park skate spot to be able to take down a bridge as part of the Twin Ports Interchange Project. The equipment from the former…

KYN: Duluth Curling Club

DULUTH, Minn.–With the winter sports season approaching, not all the action, or ice, is outside. We caught up with the Duluth Curling Club last week to see what it takes to turn the ice into a curler’s dream. The Duluth Curling Club has been a staple in the community for decades. It’s been housed at the DECC since 1976 and…

Opioid Lawsuit Funds Being Used for Prevention and Recovery Programs in St. Louis County

VIRGINIA, Minn.–St. Louis County is using pharmaceutical settlement money to go toward programs surrounding opioid abuse and awareness. A representative with the county tells us the settlement money comes from a national lawsuit against opioid manufacturer Johnson & Johnson. The county’s created an opioid remediation subcommittee earlier this year. That group was tasked with coming up with some recommendations of…

Vitta Pizza Close To Opening Second Duluth Location

Newly hired pizza makers have been busy getting trained at the Central Entrance location.

DULUTH, Minn.–Vitta Pizza’s second location in Duluth is getting ready to start cooking wood-fired pies in the next week or two. Newly hired pizza makers have been busy getting trained at the Central Entrance location. The doors even opened for a few hours Tuesday so employees could get a test run with real customers while trying out a new drive-though…

Lake Superior Zoo Welcomes Second Baby Chinese Goral

Baby Tyrone was born in the beginning of September and now he's ready to play!

DULUTH, Minn.–The Lake Superior Zoo is welcoming a newborn to their crew: a baby Chinese Goral. Baby Tyrone was born in the beginning of September and now he’s ready to play! The species resembles a small goat or deer and can be found in the wild of Vietnam, Laos, and China. With this new addition, the zoo is continuing to…

USPS Hiring Postal Service Workers for Holiday Season

The Duluth Post Office Held a Job Fair Friday

DULUTH, Minn.–If you’re looking for some extra cash this holiday season, the Postal Service is hiring. Friday a job fair was held looking for eligible applicants to join the USPS team for the upcoming busy couple of months ahead. The Postal Service wants to be as prepared as possible for the demands of online shopping and gift giving. Those attending…

10th Annual Junk Hunt Continues Into Weekend

DULUTH, Minn.–The DECC’s Southern Pioneer Hall was packed full of both sellers and shoppers for the 10th annual Junk Hunt. After a successful start Thursday, vendors were busy rearranging their stalls and bringing out all types of vintage items. The Junk Hunt pops up twice a year during the beginning of May and November, gathering top vendors from throughout Minnesota…

UWS Lake Superior Research Institute Floating Classroom Expected For 2024

SUPERIOR, Wis. — A classroom on water? Students at University of Wisconsin-Superior can expect to take their research on the lake by the spring of 2024. Those that are enrolled in UWS’ Lake Superior Research Institute will have the opportunity to study right on the waves. A 65-foot aluminum catamaran boat is being adapted to become “Superior’s Floating Classroom.” The…

Newly Constructed Playground Outside of Hermantown Community Learning Center

The Hawk's Nest playground is located at 4333 Hawk Circle Drive, Hermantown, MN 55811.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.–After years of planning, construction is complete for a new playground in Hermantown. It’s called the “Hawk’s Nest” and it’s located outside the Hermantown Hawk’s Community Learning Center. The center was built in 2019 to provide early childhood education for kids ages 3-5 years old. Since then, staff have been working with engineers to brainstorm ways to enhance the…

UMD Students Host Pumpkin Compost Drive

Pumpkin Compost Drive Nov. 2 Through Nov. 4

DULUTH, Minn.–Not sure what to do with your Jack-O-Lantern after Halloween? Well instead of letting it turn to mush, you can add it to a compost pile. UMD students researching Sustainable Food Systems are coming together to collect unwanted pumpkins. There are two dumpsters on campus designated for collecting pumpkins. One is located near the Bagley Nature Center and the…

The DECC Kicks Off New Weekly Vinyl Happy Hour Event

The Vinyl Happy Hours will continue every Tuesday through November from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn.–The DECC kicked off their Vinyl Happy Hour series with some old tunes and refreshments. Executive Director Dan Hartman wanted to hold an event showcasing the newly remodeled Symphony Hall Mezzanine, as well as the harbor views their Turf Deck has to offer. This part of the DECC was built in 1966. In order to embrace the history of…

Haunted Ship Wrecks Past Attendance Records

DULUTH, Minn. — How many people can the Haunted Ship scare? Well, apparently a record-breaking amount. Thousands trekked through the tank of terror this October, 29,525 to be exact, and that’s not counting ghosts. A new single day record was also set at more than 4,000 people. This year’s theme was “What are you afraid of?” tapping into people’s phobias…

Christmas Assistance Applications Now Accepted At Salvation Army In West Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Those who may need some help celebrating Christmas this year can sign up for assistance starting Tuesday. At the Duluth Salvation Army, families can apply for different types of assistance for the holidays. Applications for the Salvation Army’s Christmas dinner package can sign up November 1 through November 23. This dinner option is still available for households…

Union Gospel Mission Celebrating 100 Years of Serving Northlanders

Tuesday also marked the reopening of their great dining hall which serves sit-down meals

DULUTH, Minn.–Back in 1922 more than 20 churches of different denominations came together to form the Union Gospel Mission food bank. Today they celebrated 100 years of serving the community with a ribbon cutting. Union Gospel Mission is a space where Duluthians in need can rely on picking up hot, ready-to-eat meals. They also provide shelter through their transitional housing…

Community Garden Program Free to Public in Lincoln Park

The plot of land is at the intersection of West Third Street and North Twenty Ninth Avenue West, near Harrison Park.

DULUTH, Minn.–Even though it’s not gardening season, a community garden in Lincoln Park is still looking for those with a green thumb to get involved. There’s a plot near Harrison Park that is now reserved for growing fruits and vegetables. This garden was awarded two free libraries through the city of Duluth’s Love Your Block campaign. The free libraries that…

Continental Ski & Bike Shop Selling Discounted Winter Gear Early

The sale will be going through the weekend of October 28-30

DULUTH, Minn.–With winter around the corner, the snow bunnies down at Continental Ski and Bike are already showcasing their winter sports gear. Pop up tents are surrounding the parking lot with all their discounted items. Staff brought out the past season gear they’ve gathered to make room as more winter supplies rolls in. If you’re just learning to ski, or…

Solar Plant in Mountain Iron Expanding

MOUNTAIN IRON, Minn.–I started just 13 months ago, and on Thursday people gathered on the Iron Range to celebrate it’s finish. The Heliene Solar Plant in Mountain Iron was unveiled today with a ribbon-cutting. The newly expanded plant will manufacture solar panels in a facility described as the newest and most automated in the country. It’s named after a long-time…