Community

Duluth Park & Recreational Staff Recognized for Engaging Youth Bike Program

DULUTH, Minn. — A Duluth youth bike program was recently recognized for their efforts of getting kids outdoors and enjoying the local parks and trails system. Duluth Parks and Recreation was awarded the Award of Excellence by the Minnesota Recreation and Parks Association. The parks and recreation staff started a youth and community bike program last year and have already…

FinnFest Back at the DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — A 5-day event showcasing the Finnish culture starts Wednesday in Duluth. FinnFest is all about bringing people together and celebrating the Nordic heritage. The event features cultural food such as salmon soup and Finnish pancakes. As well as music, language seminars, and foreign affairs topics. One highlight is an up-and-coming sport in Finland called Floorball. “So, floorball…

Stuff the Bus Offers a Busload of Support for Students

DULUTH, Minn. — Students are getting a busload of support from local businesses and the public through the annual Stuff the Bus project. The goal is to gather school supplies to ease the financial burden on families. Each year, they’re able to hand out hundreds of backpacks filled with supplies to students in need throughout the Northland. This year, one…

4-H Hosts First Ever Puppet Camp at the Duluth Depot

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Depot is hosting some puppet-masters in the making this week. 4-H Duluth, in collaboration with the Depot is holding its first ever puppet camp. It’s a week-long program that aims to teach 3rd through 6th graders the art of the puppet. From choosing the story to designing the characters, these students are in control of…

What You Need to Know About Minnesota’s New Child Passenger Safety Laws

DULUTH, Minn. — Starting August 1, there’s new ways for children to be safe while riding in vehicles. The new “5 Step Test” aims for child safety. Children must (1) sit flat against the back of the seat (2) without falling asleep consistently, (3) keeping knees at a 90-degree angle (4) with the seat belt resting across the hips and…

Grant Funded Shopping Spree for Boys and Girls Club of the Northland

DULUTH, Minn.– School will be in full swing soon enough. And one local organization received a grant for that special time of year. The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Northland paired up with Kohl’s to help them with school supplies this fall. Since 2019, Kohl’s has partnered up with the organization, supporting the youth across the nation. The Duluth…

17th Annual Reggae and World Music Festival Takes Place in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth’s Bayfront Festival Park was full of dancing, culture, and connecting on Saturday. It was all part of the 17th Annual Reggae and World Music Festival. More than a half-dozen artists shared their music with the crowd. Food trucks were there, too, offering Jamaican dishes and other food from different cultures. For some, reggae fest is about…

Chisholm Armory Hosts Open House For Community

CHISHOLM, Minn. — There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes of the Army National Guard. On Saturday, Military members at the Chisholm Armory had the opportunity to show the community what they all do. People could check out the armory’s fleet of vehicles. Guests also had the chance to climb inside and look around. There was a lot…

10th Annual Bike Duluth Festival Brings Together Cycling Community

The 10th Annual Bike Duluth Festival is this weekend and the fun kicked off at Spirit Mountain Friday evening. The event brings together bikers from around the country, with all different specialties and skill levels. Organizers say this year, 700 riders are signed up over 12 races. Things kicked off on with the Chainless Downhill Race. Like the name implies,…

Kids Discover Fossils at the Minnesota Discovery Center

  CHISHOLM, Minn.– Kids experienced a day full of discoveries while hunting for fossils. “Paleo- Camp” gave kids the opportunity to find fossils that are around 90 million years old. Using a variety of tools, the campers combed through the Hill Annex State Park to make discoveries of their own. They were able to find things like snails, and shark…

Duluth Man Sells Architectural Salvage He Gathers From Churches and Schools

DULUTH, Minn. — One local man has made quite the collection of unique pieces over the years and this weekend he’s hosting a sale. For over 30 years Bob Swanson has been collecting architectural stone. He will go into churches or schools to disassemble the buildings. All to find those cool pieces. At the sale you can find limestone, brownstone,…

A Behind the Scenes Look At Train Track Inspections

DULUTH, Minn.– Being out on the railroad, there is so much to take in. Unexpected landscapes, and behind the scenes projects. The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad gives people the opportunity to experience the outdoors from a new perspective. All thanks to the help of volunteers. Before all of this happens, there are countless safety measures put in place. “The…

Hermantown Fire Department Launches New Program

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — The Hermantown Fire Department has launched its new community connect program. This program is about supply first responders with vital information to better meet the needs of the community when they are called upon. Hermantown residents and businesses can voluntarily input any information that they think will aid responders. Users can outline their health or mobility issues,…

Marble and Glass Art Hunt Brings Excitement to Duluth Public Library

Duluthians visited the library to find treasures, both glass and literary

DULUTH, Minn. — The Annual Marble and Glass Art Hunt was Wednesday morning in Duluth and this year it took on a whole new meaning. Lake Superior Art Glass had a new venue for the hunt this year, the Duluth Public Library’s three branch locations. Hunters of all ages lined up to search for handcrafted marbles, pendants, and little glass…

New Behavior Health Clinic Looks to Bridge Gap for Crisis Response

DULUTH, Minn. — A new behavior health care center is set to open near Downtown Duluth next week. During Tuesday’s public safety meeting, members of the Human Development Center opened the presser stressing the need for mental health support. A new Urgent Care Behavioral Health Clinic will open up on Monday with a dedicated space meant to de-escalate and service…

Arrowhead Transit Expands Services Into Hibbing

HIBBING, Minn. – The largest rural public transportation provide just expanded their service, targeting more in the Hibbing area. Arrowhead Transit is a vital lifeline for many people who live in the iron range and across northeastern Minnesota. Previously the city of Hibbing has had their own transportation service, but have slowed down and decreased services in recent years. Arrowhead…

Duluth Used Less Lethal Force Armed Burglar Caught in Act

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Police used less lethal options against an armed burglar who they say wouldn’t peacefully surrender after getting caught in the act. This happened around 3:10 p.m. Tuesday afternoon in an apartment complex on E 2nd St. The 47-year-old male suspect was eventually arrested. Authorities say he was armed with a box cutter. No officers were injured….

Strong Opinions On Proposed Public Safety Plan; Duluth Mayor, Chiefs Encourage More

DULUTH, Minn. — One day after a standing-room only council meeting, the city of Duluth’s top public safety leaders are reacting to 3.5 hours of public comments and dialogue about Mayor Roger Reinert’s proposed ordinance changes to get tougher on non-violent crime. Property damage, graffiti, illegal dumping and camping on public property are among the non-violent crimes that would become…

Cupcake Sale and Food Truck Supports PAVSA

DULUTH, Minn.–People enjoyed a sweet treat in support of PAVSA. The Rambler food truck and the Something Sweet bakery teamed up to raise funds for PAVSA in Duluth today. They offered unique cupcakes, such as cookie dough and raspberry passionfruit. People also had the opportunity to try their luck at a drawing for a kayak. The funds raised will go…

Council Discusses Public Safety Plan Amid Packed Chamber Room

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth’s City Council got their first chance Monday evening to discuss 10 proposed ordinance amendments to curb non-violent crimes in the city. It would make actions such as camping on city property, graffiti, and unlawful possession or firing of an airgun misdemeanors. An overflow crowd gathered in and near the council chamber’s room for a chance to…

MnDOT Crews to Repaint Route Arrows in Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Lane closures and delays are expected along the crosswalks and intersections of Hwy 169 in Grand Rapids. The Minnesota Department of Transportation will be refreshing turn arrows and crosswalks for easier viewability throughout the next week. Motorists are asked to use extra caution when traveling through work zones, seek alternate routes, and avoid left turns at…

Two Workforce Development Nonprofits Merge Providing Career Building Opportunities

DULUTH, Minn. – True North Goodwill and SOAR Career Solutions announced their plans for a merger. The two nonprofits both focus on workforce development in our region for decades. Through recent conversations between the Executive Director of SOAR, Emily Edison, and President & CEO of True North Goodwill, Dodie Brown, they found their companies visions aligned.  “This is an opportunity…

64th International Regatta Brings Together Rowing Community

DULUTH, Minn. — The 64th Annual Duluth Rowing Regatta took place on Saturday. Close to 100 Duluth Rowing Club members were joined by crews from around Minnesota, Michigan, and Ontario, Canada. Regatta Chairman Eric Dott says much of the event’s success relies on outside factors. “The weather will affect how far we are able to complete all of the races,”…

Rose Fest 2024 Celebrates Duluth’s Summer Blooms

Visitors enjoyed the gardens and learned more about roses from the Lake Superior Rose Society

DULUTH, Minn. — Saturday was Rose Fest at Duluth’s Rose Garden and people from all over came to celebrate. The free event featured guided tours, classes on selecting, growing, and arranging roses, and even a treasure hunt for kids. The Leif Erikson Rose Garden is maintained by the City of Duluth and the Lake Superior Rose Society, a volunteer organization…

Duluth Climbers Coalition Welcome Inexperienced Climbers to ‘Flock to the Rock’

DULUTH, Minn. — While Duluth offers a wide array of hiking trails to get outside UMD students and members of the Duluth Climbers Coalition offer another way to traverse some of Duluth’s rockiest trails. On Saturday, the climbers coalition offered community members out to Ely’s Peak to scale alongside the cliffside for their annual Flock to the Rock event. The…

1st Annual Duluth Summer Slam Pickleball Tournament Rallys Community

Picklers of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds entered this weekend's tournament

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Area Pickleball Association Summer Slam Tournament kicked off on Friday at Wheeler Athletic Complex and will continue throughout the weekend. One hundred forty five pickleball players from around Minnesota, as well as Canada, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Michigan, and Florida are set to compete. Picklers from eight to eighty will compete in various events over the…

Two Harbors Heritage Days Brings Out Locals and Tourists Alike

The four day festival has plenty to explore for everyone

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — Friday was the second day of Two Harbor Heritage Days, a summertime celebration for the North Shore community. Heritage Days is well underway in Two Harbors. The festival invites locals and tourists alike to enjoy an arts and crafts show, parades, entertainment, and dancing. With something for everyone, the four day celebration is a hit among…

Civic Center Farmers Market Filled With Local Vendors

DULUTH, Minn. — The 6th annual Civic Center Farmers Market is back in Duluth with local vendors. Eggs, meat, and homemade baked goods were among items there on Thursday. Plants, flowers, soaps, crafts, live music and food trucks, too. Superior Currents is an art business that features driftwood earrings and necklaces made with beach glass. The art is heavily inspired…

Major Affordable Housing Developments Underway in Harbor Highlands

DULUTH, Minn. – 40 new single-family detached additions of affordable housing units broke ground Thursday in the Harbor Highlands neighborhood. The Housing & Redevelopment Authority of Duluth held a ceremony which kickstarts Phase VI of the development project.  This phase is focused on the construction of 10 1-bedroom, 14 2-bedrooms, 12 3-bedrooms, and 4 4-bedroom units. 7 units of housing…

Passengers Board North Shore Scenic Railroad for Barbecue and Views

The North Shore Scenic Railroad is Offering Its Barbecue Dinner Train Once Again

DULUTH, Minn. — All aboard for barbecue! The North Shore Scenic Railroad is once again offering Summer BBQ in the SkyView. The trip up the North Shore offers Famous Dave’s barbecue with a side of lakeshore views. According to the railroad’s General Manager Ken Buehler, they have been offering this experience for a few years. It’s an important part of…

Union Gospel Mission Receives Outpouring Support For Summer Weekend Food Bag Program

CLOQUET, Minn. — The Union Gospel Mission is receiving a lot of support for their Summer Weekend Food Bag program. The program fills bags of food with easy to prepare items. The bags are then delivered to local youth organizations that distribute them to children who don’t have adequate food access over the weekends. Many local groups help fill the…

Downtown Duluth’s Sidewalk Sale Returns

DULUTH, Minn — The summer weather on Wednesday was very appropriate for the kick-off of Downtown Duluth’s Sidewalk Days. Wednesday was the first of three days of Sidewalk Days sales taking place on Superior Street. On a day where the weather was beautiful, the crowds turned out in big numbers. They may have come for the sales, but they were…

Spirit Lake Reopens as Part of St. Louis River Site Contaminant Free

After years of restoration, the U.S. Environment Protection Agency announced another larger portion of the St. Louis River Site to be cleared around Spirit Lake from pollution where former US Steel plants once stood in West Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn. — For decades now, the over 500-acre site commonly referred to as the St. Louis River Site contained pollutants from the former US Steel facilities. Today, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and members of US Steel confirmed the portion surrounding Spirit Lake is now contaminant free. Over the last three years, crews have worked on removing polycyclic aromatic…

Life House Welcomes New Executive Director

DULUTH, Minn. — A non-profit organization helping youth recently welcomed a new executive director to the team. Amber Sadowski worked at Life House from 2015 to 2022 and served as the Operations Director. Altogether she brings 9 years of non-profit experience to the team. She is looking forward to continuing her efforts in helping youth in need. Over time Life…

Duluth Mayor Proposes ‘Public Safety Ordinances’ For Non-Violent Crimes

DULUTH Minn.– Improving public safety is one of Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert’s top priorities. On Monday afternoon, he and his chiefs of police and fire announced a proposal to help cut down on non-violent crimes. The plan includes 10 city ordinances that will amend sections of the city code. This includes introducing misdemeanor-level offenses for problems such as burning, graffiti,…

Local Dog Training Business Takes Off

  DULUTH, Minn.– A dog training business is offering a unique approach when it comes to treating behavioral issues. Owning a dog can have its ups and downs. Unresolved issues in these animals can lead to dangerous interactions down the road. Northwood Dog Training is able to adapt to the needs of the specific dog. They take pride in their…

Knowing Your Neighbor: Local Reptile Business Seeks New Home

HERMANTOWN MN. — Tucked away in the basement of the World of Fish building, The Snake Pit is a hidden gem for reptile enthusiasts. Guests can get to know animals like snakes, geckos, skinks, tarantulas, tortoises, and even an alligator. Just to name a few. For Snake Pit owner Roger Hill, this hobby, and business, has been a lifelong passion…