minnesota

Virtual Library Cards Give Students 24/7 Access to Resources

The Library Ports Project is a partnership between the Duluth Public School and the Duluth Public Library.

DULUTH, Minn.- This week 8,500 students in the Duluth School District now have24-hour access to resources from the Duluth Public Library. City leaders and educators believe this Library Port program will spark interest in reading. Every student will have their own unique virtual card with easy an easy to remember code. “Our students will be able to access information and resources from the…

Electric Buses Soon to be Tested in Duluth’s Climate

The study will see how the buses run in Duluth's cold climate.

DULUTH, Minn.- A brand new bus is in town, electric buses will soon be apart of the Duluth Transit Authority. Seven electric buses are hitting the roads next month after a $6.3 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration. The climate in Duluth it an ideal candidate to test how the electric buses run in the winter months. They’re being used in…

First Classes in Many Rivers Montessori School’s New Location

Teachers say its all about community building on the first day at the school.

DULUTH, Minn.-It’s the first day back to school for many students in the Northland. Over at Many Rivers Montessori School, the students and teachers have a lot to be happy about because it’s their first day at their new permanent building on Red Wing Street in Woodland. Teachers say its all about community building today at the school. Students are…

New Bloodmobile Removes Donation Barriers

Meet the faces you're helping stay healthy by donating blood.

DULUTH, Minn.- The goal is to increase blood donations in the Northland as a brand new bloodmobile is now opening in Duluth and health professionals say blood donations are needed more than you may think. Health experts say having a mobile donation station removes a barrier to donating blood and for some families the need for blood hits close to home….

Minnesota Ranked Number One for Job Satisfaction

A 70 degree September Monday off, is plenty to smile about generations of families count on this day together.

CLOQUET, Minn.- For 99 years the town of Cloquet has hosted a big celebration on labor day and this year, they have something even sweeter to think about on their day off, Minnesota is now ranked number one for job satisfaction according to a new study. “Last day of summer so it’s kind of like a big bang type thing…

Hotels Hustling for Labor Day

Pier B Among Hotels Experiencing Increased Business on Holiday

DULUTH, Minn.-For those who don’t want to spend the three days outdoors, there’s always indoor camping in a hotel room this Labor Day Weekend. For area hotels like Pier B, Labor Day comes during the height of the busy season. With summer coming to a close, they say families looking for a last minute vacation come knocking. Where they come…

Steelworkers Rally for Fair Raises

After Not Getting a Raise in Over Three Years, United Steelworkers Union Had Enough

VIRGINIA, Minn.- Chants rang out filled with passion, and even anger. Members of the United Steel Workers union Local 1938 gathered in Virginia to protest what they feel is an insulting and unfair contract offer. “The CEOs shouldn’t live a life of luxury while the middle class worker struggles to eat and pay his bills,” said Steelworker Richard Poskarbiewicz. The proposed…

Construction Washout Shuts Down Slip Bridge

The project manager tells us they're currently working on a temporary solution to open the Slip Bridge for the weekend.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Duluth’s seawall reconstruction project has hit another unexpected snag, forcing a temporary shutdown to pedestrian access on the Minnesota Slip Bridge. The problem is a washout beneath the sidewalk leading up to that blue bridge. City leaders tell us while working on the seawall restoration project construction workers unintentionally disturbed the fill below the concrete sidewalk causing the…

How to Become a Better Public Speaker

One local group is helping Northlanders feel more comfortable speaking in a professional environment.

DULUTH, Minn.- Do you have a fear of speaking in front of large crowds or presenting an idea at work? One local group aims to help improve your communication skills so you can better your professional career. An open house was held on Thursday for the Toastmasters in the Paolucci Building in Canal Park. The Toastmasters is an international club…

Learn How to Spot Invasive Species on the St. Louis River-editing

Do you know how to spot plants and insects that don't belong?

DULUTH, Minn.- Thanks to a free class St. Louis River enthusiasts are learning how to spot invasive species. The Aquatic Invasive Sentry Training Program prepares fishermen and paddlers how to know what plants and insects shouldn’t be on the river. Trainers tell us it’s important to be on the lookout and inform specialists and it’s easy for people frequently out…

New Roundabout Close to Opening in Hermantown

It's that time of year when most drivers are ready to see those orange construction cones disappear.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.- After several weeks of construction, a long-awaited roundabout is set to open. It’s that time of year when most drivers are ready to see those orange construction cones disappear and at Maple Grove Road and Midway Road your wish is close to being granted.  The brand new roundabout construction is close to the finish line. This Saturday, drivers will finally…

St. Scholastica’s First Class of Physician Assistants

White Coat Ceremony Held In Mitchell Auditorium

DULUTH, Minn.- The College of St. Scholastica has cloaked its first ever class of physician assistants in their white coats. The white coat ceremony included each student reading an oath to the profession, which they struggled, together, through some of the harder parts, giggling all the way. The students say they’re dedicated to the nation’s push for improving healthcare in rural…

‘Making Canal Park Pop’ Means Closures and Changes

Officials Highlight Changes Part of 'Imagine Duluth'

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth’s top tourist hot spot known as Canal Park is about to undergo some big changes next month involving traffic and community spaces. It’s all part of a pilot project with the city’s Imagine Duluth initiative. The city won a Knight Cities Challenge grant of over $200,000 to implement these changes, which the city says is sure to bring…

Kayaking Around Lake Superior all ‘Four the Water’

The crew is paddling their way to a cleaner Great Lakes.

DULUTH, Minn.- Four kayak guides are taking the summer off to paddling their way around Lake Superior to advocate for clean water. They’re called “Four the Water” a crew of four men started a journey around Lake Superior back in May, pushing off from Lake Superior. The crew paddled up around Canada and down Minnesota’s North Shore. Overall the journey…

Glensheen Gardens Give for 12 Years

Vegetable Gardens Celebrate 12 Years with Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank

DULUTH, Minn.- Since 2006, the Glensheen Vegetable Gardens have donated over 2,000 pounds of produce a year to the Second Harvest Food Bank, helping make over 10,000 meals for those in need. And this September, everyone can see what the gardens have to offer at their weekly Chef in the Garden show. Audiences will watch a Blackwoods chef in the gardens,…

Class Back in Session at Lake Superior College & UMD

Enrollment at LSC is up 2% this semester

DULUTH, Minn. – Students are getting back into the swing of campus over at Lake Superior College. Students tell us this week is all about meeting one another which makes living away from home easier. “Being on the soccer team helped a lot, but being in class also does, a lot of people are talkative and social so it’s pretty…

UPDATE: Duluth City Council Approves Funding for Cruise Ships to Enter the Twin Ports

Approval passed at the City Council meeting for $25,000 from the Tourism Tax Fund to fund new technology for Border Patrol. 

UPDATE: The Duluth City Council unanimously approved $25,000 to fund border patrol gear for cruise ships to enter the Twin Ports. DULUTH, Minn.- Cruise ships are planning on coming to Duluth by next summer but the Port Authority needs to purchase U.S. Customs and Border Control equipment to make it happen. Monday night they’re seeking approval at the City Council meeting…

Newly Funded Program Helping Families

The Healthy Families America Program provides services for at-risk families.

CLOQUET, Minn.-  A 2.1 million dollar award is helping families receive in-home help with pregnancy and parenting. The Healthy Families America Program provides services for first-time mothers, at-risk families such as parents dealing with domestic abuse, substance abuse or those dealing with mental illness.  Through the program, medical professionals visit family’ homes providing practical health services and parenting support. “It’s working…

Grant for Nurses in Training at St. Scholastica

Federal Grant Announced for Undergraduate Nurses

Duluth, Minn.- The Undergraduate School of Nursing at St. Scholastica was given a big gift. A nearly $3 million grant from the Department of Health and Human Services. The funding is meant to advance the college’s shifting focus to more quality care in rural and under-served areas. School officials say that fostering nurses to have broader, more intimate techniques in…

One Stop Shop for Veteran Services in the Twin Ports

The Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans has been hosting the Veteran Stand Down for over a decade

DULUTH, Minn.- The Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans are looking to end homelessness for Veterans and the organization is hosting a one-stop spot for services. The annual Veteran Stand Down filled Bayfront Park with over 50 free services including medical help, higher education information, legal advice and free clothing. “Sometimes we don’t ask for help, sometimes we don’t know where to…

Cloquet Becoming More Pedestrian Friendly this Fall

Over half of the community will be more active if the sidewalks are widened according to a survey.

CLOQUET, Minn.- Do you walk or bike to work? Construction is underway for the city of Cloquet to become more pedestrian friendly. Right now work is being done to create sidewalk bump-outs making a wider path for pedestrians, other changes include bike lanes on a one-mile stretch downtown. “Just allowing people to get from point A to point B, we can’t plan…

Snacks, Swag and Smiles at Summer Carnival

9th Annual Summer Carnival Held at Viewcrest

Duluth, Minn.- Families were invited to Viewcrest Health Center  to join residents for a free, fun day filled with games, food, and goldfish prizes, at their 9th annual Summer Carnival. The senior living facility opened up their yard and their indoor park for the staff’s families and the community. There was plenty of cotton candy around. But most importantly, kids got…

Who Whacked Willy Wonka? Find Out on the North Shore Scenic Railroad

This Murder Mystery can be solved on the Disoriented Express train ride at the North Shore Scenic Railroad

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s a Murder Mystery all aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad. While aboard the Disoriented Express, passengers must figure out Who Whacked Willy Wonka. A crew of actors aboard are interacting with the audience giving clues and playing part in the Murder Mystery. This adult night-out is a two and a half hour train ride, including a four-course…

Senior Citizens Celebrate the End of Summer with a Side of Competition

This traditional Morgan Park Senior Picnic was put on hold for nearly 15 years, but it's back in full swing. 

DULUTH, Minn.-  It’s a celebration of summer, but this exclusive party is reserved for senior citizens. “And a picnic always sounds good,” picnic attendee Barbara Beverage said. This traditional Morgan Park Senior Picnic was put on hold for nearly 15 years, but it’s back in full swing. “Well, our senior community is one of our most prized so to be able…

School Board Chairman says November Referendum Vote is Crucial

The vote happens on November 6th.

DULUTH, Minn.- A three question levy referendum is in place that would add both teachers and new technology to the Duluth school district if approved by voters in November. The School Board Chairman calls this vote crucial. If passed question one would renew the current ten-year operating levy without increasing property taxes. The second question would add 25 teachers to help…

Welcome to Duluth, UMD Students

Over 2,200 new students are moving into the University of Minnesota Duluth dorms for the first time.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth welcomes students who attend the University of Minnesota Duluth back to the Northland. Those students make a large impact on Duluth and their return is creating a lot of energy and excitement on campus. “It’s always been something that’s been so far away and now it’s here so it’s weird,” UMD freshman Riley Campion said. Over 2,200 new…

Local College Students Create $77 Million in Economic Impact

The study conducted also states students produce nearly 700 jobs to the area.

DULUTH, Minn.- College students returning not only add an energy to the city but also a large economic impact. College students create more business for local shops, those students are a staple in the Duluth community. UMD students and visitors bring in $77 million of economic impact to the region according to a study conducted in 2014 by the Labovitz School’s Bureau of…

The Making of a Christmas Tree

Christmas is 180 days away although you may think its too soon to start planning your holiday if you want the perfect balsam fir or the classic Charlie Brown tree, nows the time for trimming. 

PROCTOR, Minn.-  Christmas in July has passed and it’s not quite December but one family owned business thinks about decking the halls all year long. Christmas is 180 days away although you may think its too soon to start planning your holiday if you want the perfect balsam fir or the classic Charlie Brown tree, nows the time for trimming. “Just…

Entrepreneur Fund Gets Big Donation from GRE

Great River Energy Donates A Million Dollars

DULUTH, Minn.- Northland entrepreneurs now have more financial resources available. Great River Energy is donating a million dollars to the Entrepreneur Fund. That fund has been helping entrepreneurs with funding and business strategies for almost 30 years now. The million dollar check will help small business owners continue to have a big impact in their communities. “Entrepreneurs really bring a…

Burial Ground Restoration Concerns Unaddressed

MnDot Meets with Frustrated Fond Du Lac Residents and Native Americans at Chambers Grove Park

Duluth, Minn.- There is growing anger from the Native American Community and people who live in the Fond Du Lac neighborhood. They say they’ve got more questions than answers involving the ongoing restoration of a sacred Native American Burial Site, that was accidentally unearthed more than a year ago by MnDOT workers. On Thursday dozens of disgruntled Fond Du Lac…

Nursing Home Residents Take a Field Trip to Gordy’s Warming House

The outing has been a tradition for nearly 15 years.

CLOQUET, Minn.- Residents from a nursing home at the Cloquet Memorial Hospital were treated to some free scoops of ice cream at Gordy’s Warming House in Cloquet. The residents were transported to the business in wheelchairs, something that’s becoming a tradition in that community. Live music filled the air as the patients enjoyed a free scoop of ice cream. One man told us…

Wells Fargo Employees Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity

Wells Fargo is donating $35,000 to the Western Lake Superior Habitat for Humanity

DULUTH, Minn.- Employees with Wells Fargo are helping build the community through a partnership with the Western Lake Superior Habitat for Humanity. Wells Fargo is donating $35,000 to the Western Lake Superior Habitat for Humanity and the bank’s employees are picking up their tool belts building a home in Lincoln Park. Employees we spoke with tell us they appreciate being…

Blue-Green Algae Blots Lake Superior

UMD Researchers Look into Source of Algae

Duluth, Minn.- For years we’ve been warned to lookout for blue-green algae blooms in local lakes and rivers. But just a few days ago, it bloomed somewhere no one saw coming: Lake Superior. Patches of blooms were reportedly 50 miles long between the Twin Ports and Apostle Islands. Now researchers at UMD’s Large Lake Observatory are trying to figure out…

Congdon Park Elementary School Re-Opens after Rat Infestation

DULUTH, Minn.- Congdon Elementary School in Duluth shut down school grounds for the summer after a rat infestation was found on school grounds underneath the building, but with school just around the corner school district leaders tell us the problem is under control. Congdon Elementary School grounds are ready to welcome students back. Pest Control experts found around 300 to 500 rats…

New Hermantown Market Space Hosts Groundbreaking

Once complete eight new buildings will be built on 12 acres of land available for small and large businesses to lease spaces.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.- An exciting new development center is coming to Hermantown. The Hermantown Marketspace has been years in the making and broke ground on Wednesday. The Hermantown Marketspace is located on Miller Trunk Highway by Haines and Stebner road. Once complete eight new buildings will be built on 12 acres of land available for small and large businesses to lease…

UMD Political Science Professor Weighs in on Tuesday’s Primary Election

Primary Elections are Taking Place in Minnesota and Wisconsin Tuesday, August 14; Polls Close at 8:00 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – On Tuesday, August 14, residents in Minnesota and Wisconsin have the chance to make their voice heard during the 2018 Primary Election. Tuesday morning, Cindy Rugeley, UMD Associate Professor of Political Science, gave her insight on the importance of the primary election. Races up for grabs include Governor, Congress, Senate, Attorney General and many more local races….

Seaway Port Authority Names First Female Director

Deb DeLuca Appointed as Chief Executive Director

Duluth, Minn.- The Duluth Seaway Port Authority is celebrating its first–ever female Executive Director, in the port’s 60-year history. On Monday, Deb DeLuca was officially appointed to the position, starting this Thursday, Aug 16th. She’s not new to the Port Authority. DeLuca previously held the title of Government and Environmental Affairs Director since 2014. “The biggest task in front of us…

Knocking Doors for Voting Youth

Local Youth Organizaiton Encourages Peers to Vote

Duluth, Minn- This is the first year where millennial voters are projected to outnumber baby boomers in the state’s November general election. Some young Minnesotans are taking to the streets to get their peers to vote. Members of the Minnesota Youth Power Collective didn’t let the heat stop them, as they hit the houses of West Duluth, rallying fellow young…

What to Know before the Primary Election

More information on poll locations and times.

DULUTH, Minn.-  It’s primary election Tuesday, as candidates in many big races will be finalized for the general election in November. With several major statewide races in both Wisconsin and Minnesota, voter turnout is expected to be higher than a typical primary election. Along with the highly contested races a high number of young voters could help push turnout up. This…

Paws, Pins and Pints Parades Pooches

Duluth Dogs and Owners Out at Country Lanes North

Duluth, Minn.- The dogs took over Duluth to bowl and have a few drinks –at least their owners did. It’s all part of the “Paws, Pins and Pints” fundraising event at Country Lanes North. Where proceeds help out Animal Allies Humane Society. “Fun. And that’s what we want,” said co-organizer Cheryl Brandt. “Everyone’s having a good time. People love taking pictures of…

Sami Soiree of Culture and Fun

North American Sami Gathering held in Park Point

Duluth, Minn.- Duluth was the center of a cultural congregation this weekend. The Sami Cultural center of North America hosted a gathering for North American Sami at the Lafayette Community Center. Sami from as far away as Alaska and Canada came out for the event. According to organizers, Duluth is full of Sami. “Because we are a gathering for Scandinavian…

Bustin Out the Blues at Bayfront Park

30th Annual Blues Fest Takes Place

Duluth, Minn.- It’s time to get out your guitars and harmonicas, ’cause Duluth is crying the blues this weekend. The 30th Annual Blues Festival took over Bayfront Festival Park. Hardened men hunch over pianos, or cradle guitars, playfully hopping along notes on the stage at Bayfront. The music commands the crowd to move and sway. And Duluth crowds are known to…

Duluth VFW Welcomes Home 148th Fighter Wing Members

Servicemen and women recently returned from Southwest Asia

DULUTH, Minn. – Members of the 148th fighter wing were welcomed back to the area at the VFW in West Duluth. The servicemen and women were deployed in Southwest Asia and returned last month. The VFW gathering was the first time some of the airmen had seen their family and friends since returning. They say it’s good to know an…

Blues Fills Bayfront For Blues Festival

The Blues Festival runs throughout the rest of the weekend.

DULUTH, Minn. – The 30th annual Blues Festival is happening this weekend at Bayfront Park, and thousands already made their way over for the first day of the fun. The weekend-long event features different blues artist lineups happening all day, and people can bring their own chairs and blankets to enjoy the day. They also have food and drink vendors…

St. Louis County Fair Full of Fun

134th Fair Continues in Chisholm

Chisholm, Minn.- It’s the kids excitement for adventurous rides, furry animals, and delicious food that keeps this fair going for 134 years. “We got on some rides, and saw the animals.” said young fair-goer Lilly Jola. Her and her sister Ava share a favorite ride: the Caterpillar roller coaster. Being around for 134 years makes the fair a token of many…

Sixth Judicial Judge Mark Munger Announces Retirement

Munger has been practicing law here in Duluth for almost 40 years

DULUTH, Minn. – Longtime sixth judicial judge Mark Munger will soon be retiring after decades on the job in St. Louis county. Judge Munger has been practicing law for almost 40 years. He’s lived and worked in Duluth for his entire life. Munger served as a practitioner for 18 years and a judge for almost 20 years. “Well I think I’m…

Dayton Requests Federal Help for Storm Damage

Federal, state, and local officials conducting damage assessments verified more than $21 million of eligible damages for 29 counties and three tribal nations.

ST. PAUL, Minn.- Gov. Mark Dayton is requesting federal help for Minnesota communities hit hard by severe storms and flooding between June 15 and July 12. Dayton has sent a letter to President Donald Trump requesting a disaster declaration. That would mean the Federal Emergency Management Agency would fund 75 percent of approved costs. The state would pay the other…

Pasta Over Pence

'Penne Not Pence' Dinner for those Against Administration

Duluth, Minn.- While Vice President Pence was entertaining crowds and raising funds for Pete Stauber, a completely different type of fundraiser happened at the Dr. Robert Powless Cultural Center in Duluth. The Loaves and Fishes Community hosted a “Penne Not Pence” Dinner. Open to the public, they served a plate of pasta for only 10 cents. Organizers said the small,…

Stauber Starstruck as Pence Endorses

Pete Stauber is Now Endorsed by the President and Vice President

Duluth, Minn.-Vice President Pence visits Duluth just days before Minnesota’s Primary Election. Republicans have their sights set on flipping the Democratic state to Republican next year. Pence made it clear during his visit that he’s supporting Pete Stauber’s campaign for the 8th Congressional District. President Trump stopped in Duluth in June to Endorse Stauber. The candidate says he’s extremely humbled…