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EPA Grants $22M For St. Louis River Cleanup

The Environmental Protection Agency is investing $22 million to clean up a polluted section of the St. Louis River in Carlton. The funding will tackle 330 acres of contaminated sediment in the Thomson Reservoir, according to the EPA. A thin layer of activated carbon pellets will be placed over the sediment.  Officials say the carbon rapidly binds to the contaminants,…

Lack of Snowfall Gives Plows a Break

DULUTH, Minn. — By this time last year, the ground was covered with snow and plows were out in full force, this year is a much different story. With a lack of snow in the northland, Duluth’s Street Maintenance Department says this time serves as a way to catch up on much needed repairs and staffing issues. After a record…

Chum Holds Annual Homeless Memorial Vigil and March

Last night, Duluthians gathered to march, sing, and honor the lives lost while experiencing homelessness

DULUTH, Minn. — Chum Food Shelf held their annual Homeless Memorial Vigil, which included a march to Duluth City Hall. People gathered to recognize 77 people in the Greater Duluth Area who lost their lives in the past year. The names read at the vigil represented both people who experienced homelessness and their advocates. The vigil has been held for…

Dabinoo’igan Emergency Domestic Violence Shelter Receives $90,000 Grant

The Ordean Foundation's donation will help expand AICHO's outreach and the shelters capacity

DULUTH, Minn. — The Dabinoo’igan Emergency Domestic Violence Shelter in Duluth is more than doubling its bed capacity thanks to a generous donation. The Ordean Foundation made a $90,000 donation to celebrate its 90th Anniversary to American Indian Community Housing Organization or AICHO. According to AICHO Board Chair Mary Owen, the funds will not only help Dabinoo’igan grow from 10…

Lester Park Students Donate Trees and Gifts to Hospitals

The 21st Annual Giving Tree Project Spread the Holiday Spirit at Hospitals and Assisted Living Facilities

DULUTH, Minn. — Across Duluth Tuesday, Santa’s helpers from Lester Park Elementary spread holiday cheer. Students delivered gifts and Christmas trees to patients at Essentia Health and St. Luke’s, as well as Ecumen Senior Living. The children raised money through helpful acts at home, donating their extra allowances. It was all a part of the 21st Annual Giving Tree Project,…

Duluth Essentia Health Employees Auction Off Christmas Trees to Help Local Organizations

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Essentia Health employees are using Christmas trees as a way to donate to local non-profits. The holiday tradition started 4 years ago, when the case management team thought decorating trees would be a great way to bring joy during the pandemic. People can come in and bid on a tree they like, with the proceeds going…

Duluth Salvation Army Christmas Distribution Helps Families In Need

DULUTH, Minn. — Families across the Northland are receiving gifts, toys and food assistance just in time for the holidays. Volunteers came together with Salvation Army staff and met the children and families they have been serving all year. Over 680 families will choose donated items, smorgasbord style. “They start in the Chapel, they get socks from the Casino, then…

Big Red Shelf Book Drive Underway

DULUTH, Minn. — The Big Red Bookshelf program has a mission of encouraging reading at an early age. The public is encouraged to donate any gently used books or even new ones for kids up to eight years old. Typically, over 2,000 books are given to children in the Twin Ports area each year. It’s a program of the Children…

Duluth Salvation Army Receives Toys And Socks, Still In Need Of Red Kettle Donations

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Salvation Army was feeling the Christmas cheer on Monday. Local organizations are giving to the non-profit. The Duluth Fire Department, along with the Duluth Firefighters Local 101 donating toys for people in need. This is the 23rd year of fundraising. The first year they raised under $500. And this year they had just over $6,800…

New Minnesota State Flag and Seal Chosen

MINNESOTA — After selecting a base design for the state flag and seal last week, the Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission made final changes Tuesday morning. The new state flag (pictured above) was chosen by 11 of the 12 commission members. However, there is a noticeable change from the original winning design (pictured below.) The shape of the star is…

Knowing Your Neighbor: 20 Years of Bentleyville

DULUTH, Minn. — Nathan Bentley, the founder and Mayor of Bentleyville, says, looking back, he never would’ve imagined his creation would grow to today’s size. It all started at his home in Esko Minnesota, after a few years of decorating for passing cars, Bentley decided to make it a walkthrough experience in 2003. “With Bentleyville never actually being a planned…

Problematic Downtown Duluth Parking Ramp Secured With Fencing

DULUTH, Minn. — A problematic downtown Duluth parking ramp has been secured with new fencing to help curb unwanted behavior — and more improvements are on the way. The fencing at the HART District Ramp on East Superior Street now covers all open areas, except where vehicles enter and leave. In May, the city council approved $165,000 to install an…

ATV Falls Through Ice On Boulder Dam Reservoir

A Saginaw man broke through some ice while riding his ATV. It happened around 7 a.m. Monday on the Boulder Dam Reservoir in St. Louis County. The man got out of the water on his own. The ATV was recovered with the help of the Gnesen Fire Department and the St. Louis County Rescue Squad. The Sheriff’s Office is reminding…

Convicted Killer From Duluth Sentenced For Kidnapping, Rape

DULUTH, Minn. — A convicted killer from Duluth is sentenced again for a serious crime he committed while out on parole. Dennis Hannuksela, 64, kidnapped, bound and raped a woman on a logging road near Duluth in May of 2021. In court Monday, Hannuksela got the maximum sentence of 19 years in prison. He was previously convicted of first-degree murder…

Superior Firefighters Help Over 500 Kids During Annual Toys For Tots Fundraiser

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Superior Firefighters Local 74 were in the giving mood this weekend. The Toys for Tots fundraiser wrapped up helping over 560 kids from around 240 families in Douglas County. Many volunteer hours go into making sure the joy of Christmas is spread all around. Fire crews say they are thankful for the communities support each year. Categories:…

Two People Arrested In Duluth During Drug Bust

DULUTH, Minn. — Two people were arrested during a drug bust in Duluth on Friday. The Duluth Police Department says that the Lake Superior Violent Offender Task Force were attempting to execute a search warrant on a person inside of a vehicle. During the attempt, a 24-year-old woman rammed into two unmarked police cars. Authorities detained the woman as well…

Storied US Steel to be acquired for more than $14 billion by Nippon Steel

The Associated Press — U.S. Steel, the Pittsburgh steel producer that played a key role in the nation’s industrialization, is being acquired by Nippon Steel in an all-cash deal valued at approximately $14.1 billion. The transaction is worth about $14.9 billion when including the assumption of debt. The combined company will be among the top three steel-producing companies in the…

Fitger’s Shopping Mall Stores Remain Busy During Christmas Season

DULUTH, Minn. — At Fitger’s Shopping Mall, 15 shops sell a variety of goods; ranging from children’s clothes to outdoor wear, and even a little special something for our furry companions. But this holiday season, shoppers turned a page back into shopping local. “You can buy a book from lots and lots of places these days. Big box stores, online,”…

Rainy Weather Delays Chester Bowl Opening

DULUTH, Minn. — Enjoying the spring-like weather this December? The recent rain has delayed one park’s winter fun for just a little longer. Chester Bowl originally looked to open Saturday. For the past week park staff have been making snow to supplement a winter wonderland.  The unusual rainy conditions have postponed the park’s winter opening. According to the parks website,…

Rubber Chicken Theater Produces ‘Mayor Mia! – Emily’s Christmas Musical’

DULUTH, Minn. — The annual holiday sketch comedy revue by the Rubber Chicken Theater returns this Friday with “Mayor Mia! – Emily’s Christmas Musical.” Rehearsals were underway Sunday evening at Stage Four (former Underground Theatre) in the Duluth Depot. The revue is all about looking back at the past year by creating sketch comedy, much like Saturday Night Live. Topics…

People Pack Bentleyville As Christmas Nears

DULUTH, Minn. — With Christmas one week away, Bentleyville Tour of Lights was busier than ever Sunday at Bayfront Park. Thousands of families enjoyed all of the lights, displays and joy Bentleyville has to offer. It’s the attraction’s 20th season at Bayfront. And while it’s the largest free walk-through display in America, some decided to run through it Sunday evening,…

WI Man Gets 3 Years In Prison For Bomb Threat Against Governor In 2018

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A Wisconsin man who made a bomb threat in 2018 that prompted a search of then-Gov. Scott Walker’s office in the state Capitol has been sentenced to three years in prison and two years of extended supervision, the state Department of Justice announced on Friday. Terrance Grissom, 53, was already serving time for making other threats…

Shoppers Get Last Minute Gifts at Great Hall Marketplace

DULUTH, Minn. — With Christmas just over a week away, people were getting in some last minute gift shopping at the Great Hall Marketplace at the Duluth Depot Saturday. Over 60 local vendors filled the great hall, from bakers to painters, and even Christmas ornaments to finish your decorating. The annual marketplace sees large crowds each year, with shoppers looking to…

Minnesota State Cemetery in Saginaw Honors Veterans Through Wreaths Across America

Saturday the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Saginaw Minnesota, took place in the annual tradition of Wreaths Across the Nation. Dozens of family members and volunteers placed wreaths to honor and remember our veterans.

SAGINAW, Minn. — Every year millions of people across the nation gather to place a wreath at the final resting place of American veterans. For its fifth time, the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Saginaw Minnesota participated in the event. Wreaths across America started at Arlington National Cemetery in 1992, and has grown rapidly ever since. “Over time it expanded…

Boys and Girls Clubs Now Sporting Holiday Looks

DULUTH, Minn. — We might not have snow yet, but that doesn’t mean people are not getting into the Christmas spirit. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Duluth were turned into places of holiday joy this afternoon. At least two great things came about  Friday afternoon. One is that the kids did not find out about the redecorating until they…

Forest Service Denies Lutsen’s Plan to Expand

LUTSEN TOWNSHIP, Minn- The Forest Service has issued its final decision on Lutsen’s request to expand its ski area by an additional 495 acres. The Forest Service selected the “No Action Alternative” and will not be approving Lutsen’s permit application. The Forest Service said that its decision was based on several factors. Among them are impacts on tribal resources, potential…

One Roof Community Housing To Receive $50 Million in Funding

DULUTH, Minn. — One Roof Community Housing has been recommended to receive over 50 million dollars in funding for building and renovation– which should help the current housing shortage in the northland. The funding from the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency will be the largest amount One Roof has ever received. The funds will go towards providing affordable single family homes…

Gary-New Duluth Christmas Displays Bring Holiday Joy

Christmas decorations are plentiful as generations carry on the tradition

GARY NEW DULUTH, Minn. – The lack of snow certainly isn’t hindering the Christmas spirit in Gary-New Duluth. While some are happy with just a Christmas tree in their window or a simple string of white lights, others take decorating to the extreme. Shelly Wick-Zeman said her husband has been putting decorations up outside their home since before Halloween. “People…

Silent Vigil Held in Honor of Gun Violence Victims

Community members gathered at Peace Church on the anniversary of the Sandy Hook shooting

DULUTH, Minn. — Today marks the 11th anniversary of the Sandy Hook shooting, which took the lives of 26 first graders and educators. Here in Duluth, a silent vigil was held in honor of all gun violence victims. The Northland Brady Chapter, an advocate group against gun violence, and Peace Church invited community members to take time out of their…

Teen Toys Needed For Salvation Army Families

DULUTH, Minn. – It is the time of the year when people and groups gather toys to provide some joy to those who may not have a lot of happiness in their lives. At the Salvation Army, an entire truckload of toys was brought in and the donation was much appreciated. However, there’s one group of kids that seems to…

Wisconsin Supreme Court Makes Interim State Court Director Permanent Despite Complaints

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin Supreme Court announced Thursday that the director of state courts job will be filled by the person who has been doing it since August, despite complaints that the hiring was illegal because she had been elected to serve as a Milwaukee County judge. Audrey Skwierawski took a leave from her job as a Milwaukee County circuit…

There’s Still Time To Donate To Make Every Child Smile Toy Drive

The distribution event is happening December 17.

DULUTH, Minn. — A community event is making sure every kid gets a Christmas present this year. The Make Every Child Smile toy drive is an opportunity to be the ultimate Secret Santa by getting gifts so infants through teens have something to unwrap over the holidays. This year a woman donated hundreds of beanie babies to give to the…

Mail Delays Causing Concerns

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota Senator Tina Smith is calling for the US Postal System to do a better job of delivering the mail without delays. Smith said she is hearing that mail delivery is inconsistent and that sometimes people are waiting for critical packages, such as those containing prescription medications. Smith and Senator Amy Klobuchar have introduced legislation that would…

‘Hairball’ Coming to Black Bear; Vocalist Drew Hart Wowed By Age Range Of Fans

Hairball, one of the most popular tribute bands in America, is hitting the big, big stage this New Year’s Eve, performing at half-time at U.S. Bank Stadium for the Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers game. But before that, Hairball is headed back to Black Bear Casino this Friday to perform. Drew Hart, one of the lead vocalist for Hairball,…

Mayor-Elect Reinert Makes First Shakeup At Duluth City Hall

DULUTH, Minn. — A shakeup has begun at Duluth City Hall.  Mayor-Elect Roger Reinert announced new nominations Wednesday for Chief Administrative Officer and City Attorney. Reinert has tapped Dave Montgomery to return to the role of CAO.  Montgomery retired from that position in 2018 after serving nine years under Mayors Emily Larson and Don Ness. Reinert said Montgomery will only…

State Narrows Flag Finalists to Three

DULUTH, Minn.  -The State Emblem Redesign Commission cut the field of possible new state flags to three at its meeting Tuesday. One of  the three finalists for the new flag will be chosen by the end of this year and displayed for the first time on May 11, Statehood Day in Minnesota Not included in the final three is the…

Iron Range Hells Angels “President” Charged in Eveleth Alleged Kidnapping and Assault

Criminal complaint includes two felony charges; says accused is "President" of Hells Angels Iron Range Charter.

A man described as the head of the Hells Angels on the Iron Range was charged Wednesday in an alleged kidnapping and assault case. He is charged with two felonies, including kidnapping and false imprisonment. He’s also charged with assault. A criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court says the man is Jerand Paul French. The complaint says French, 38,…

Superior Firefighters Rescue Deer Stranded On Ice

SUPERIOR, Wis. — A deer stranded on the ice of the St. Louis River was safely rescued Wednesday morning by fire crew members in Superior. Reports of the little guy stranded on the ice came in Wednesday morning. The Superior Fire Department says Platoon 3 crews then arrived on scene, put on their ice rescue suits, took out their inflatable…

Supreme Court Will Hear A Case That Could Undo Capitol Riot Charge Against Hundreds, Including Trump

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Wednesday said it will hear an appeal that could upend hundreds of charges stemming from the Capitol riot, including against former President Donald Trump. The justices will review a charge of obstruction of an official proceeding that has been brought against more than 300 people. The charge refers to the disruption of Congress’ certification of Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential…

DSGW Architecture Creates Annual Gingerbread Village

DULUTH, Minn. — An architectural firm in Duluth is bringing the holiday spirit to the Northland. DSGW Architecture has built their annual Gingerbread Village. The company started this tradition during the pandemic as a way to get together and celebrate when they couldn’t have their Christmas parties. It has expanded over the years with themes such as a ski village…

Northwood Children’s Service Receives Support From RSM

DULUTH, Minn. — Northwood Children’s Services received a big check Tuesday, thanks to a generous donation from RSM Duluth. It’s all part of the financial service’s Power of Love, nationwide fundraising initiative supporting youth in the areas of education, hunger, housing, and health. They chose Northwood Children’s Services because the non-profit aligns perfectly with those areas. And along with the…

1 Of 3 Suspects Charged In Eveleth Kidnapping, Sexual Assault

EVELETH, Minn. — An Eveleth man with alleged connections to the Hells Angels has been charged with beating up and kidnapping another man, and sexually assaulting a woman. A criminal complaint says he is one of three men in custody who have connections with the motorcycle group. Charges against Paul Anthony Debelak include kidnapping to commit bodily harm, criminal sexual…