Minnesota

The Perfect Christmas Tree

Duluth MN – Monte Miller says business is booming. Even with the proliferation and convenience of artificial, he says, real trees seem to be making a comeback. ” Now we have quite a few people in their 30s with children getting out of their mini vans, Suvs and stuff like that. So yeah, I’ve been pretty pleased with that. There…

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…

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,…

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…

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,…

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…

DOJ Arrests 10 Wanted Fugitives In Twin Ports

TWIN PORTS, Minn. – Ten wanted fugitives are off the streets of the Twin Ports after an operation lead by the U.S. Department of Justice. During the arrests between Dec. 8 and the 12th, three handguns were recovered, along with 69 fentanyl pills, meth and cocaine. Five of the suspects were wanted for firearms-related crimes, according to authorities. A half-dozen…

Lincoln Park Boys & Girls Club Remodels Cafeteria

The Club Partnered with Bell Bank to Upgrade the Multi-Purpose Space

DULUTH, Minn. — The Boys and Girls Club in Lincoln Park just got a much-needed refresh to its Game Room and Cafeteria. New flooring, cabinets, and a colorful paint were added to the space to create a more functional serving area. Tim McShane, president of Bell Bank Twin Ports, said the remodel was possible thanks to their $25,000 donation. “The…

First Witness Opens New Center in Duluth

The Child Advocacy Group Held a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

DULUTH, Minn. — The sound of drums opened the opening ceremony at the new First Witness Child Advocacy Center this afternoon. Community leaders and child advocates joined the Cedar Creek Drummers in the full room at the center to celebrate the new location’s opening. First Witness helps investigate child abuse and coordinate services said Executive Director Tracie Clanaugh. “We stand…

BCA: Third Suspect Turns Himself In After Eveleth Kidnapping, Sexual Assault

DULUTH, Minn. — A third suspect is under arrest in connection to a kidnapping and assault in Eveleth that took place over multiple days. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension on Monday said the 38-year-old man is from Eveleth. He turned himself into the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia Monday morning. The other men under arrest are a…

Council OKs Mayor Larson Appointments Against Mayor-Elect Reinert’s Plea To Deny

DULUTH, Minn. – Without discussion and against the wishes of Mayor-Elect Roger Reinert, the Duluth City Council approved three appointments by outgoing Mayor Emily Larson at Monday night’s city council meeting, and it included appointing former city councilor Zack Filipovich to the DECC’s board. Reinert had called on the council to deny Larson’s appointments, He said the 60-40 win on…

Man Imprisoned As Teen For Flower Shop Killing Is Released After Judge Throws Out His Conviction

BAYPORT, Minn. (AP) — A 35-year-old man who was sent to prison for the 2004 killing of a man in a Minneapolis flower shop was released Monday after a judge ruled the eyewitness evidence on which his conviction rested was unreliable. Marvin Haynes, who was 16 at the time of the killing, was released from prison shortly afterward the judge’s ruling. The…

Hibbing Man, 20, Killed In Head-On Crash; ‘You Are Loved By So Many’

HIBBING, Minn. –  Family and friends on the Iron Range are in mourning after a young man was killed over the weekend in a head-on crash. Levi Greenwood, 20, of Hibbing graduated last year from East Range Academy of Technology and Science. Levi and family The Minnesota State Patrol said the accident happened around 4:30 a.m. Saturday. They said Greenwood…

Mayor Larson Appoints Filipovich To DECC Board, Mayor-Elect Reinert Asks Council To Deny

This comes after Reinert asked Larson to let him appoint board, commission seats opening in December

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Mayor Emily Larson is in power until Jan. 2, and she is using that power to appoint former city councilor Zack Filipovich to a seat on the DECC board that’s opening up at the end of the year. It’s a move by Larson that goes against the request of Mayor-Elect Roger Reinert. Last week, Reinert told…

DECC Exec. Dir.: $1M Line Of Credit Untouched, Year-Round Business Model Sought

DULUTH, Minn. — DECC Executive Director Dan Hartman gave an update Sunday on the venue’s struggling financing, saying he is proud to report the DECC has not used a dime of the $1 million emergency line of credit, which the city council reluctantly approved in September. Hartman said business has picked up, and it has been strong. The William A….

USW Local 9460 Rally Over Essentia Tech Workers’ Contract

DULUTH, Minn. — Tech workers at Essentia Health rallied in Downtown Duluth Sunday afternoon, wanting what they call a new, fair contract agreement. The United Steelworker Local 9460 has been trying to reach an agreement with Essentia for the past six months.  Click the video above for more. Meanwhile, Essentia Health released a statement Sunday: “Essentia Health and the United…

‘Northern Lights Drone Show’ Wows Crowds Over Lake Superior, Winds Cancel Day 2

Saturday's shows were canceled because of strong winds

DULUTH, Minn. – Saturday night’s strong winds canceled the Northern Lights Drone Show outside Fitger’s. But Friday’s show amazed crowds of people. The holiday show performed multiple times during the evening was put on by the North Shore Scenic Railroad and Fitger’s. 100 lighted drones took to the sky over Lake Superior forming animated scenes to music. Firefly, which created…

Santas Cross the Finish Line in Wild Santa Run

DULUTH, Minn. — Well, Santa Claus came to town Saturday, actually hundreds of Santas—for the annual Wild Santa Run at Wild State Cider. The Santas took over the Lincoln Park Craft District for the annual 5k that sees hundreds of runners every year, each one dressed as good ole’ Saint nick. Despite it raining during the last leg of the…

Northern Lights Express Gets Additional Money

DULUTH, Minn. — There is news that the Northern Lights Express passenger rail project between Duluth Superior and Minneapolis is getting federal funding for more planning. The Northern Light Express route is one of 47 projects that will each receive up to $500,000. The Minnesota DOT will use the money to update the work it completed in 2017. The money…