Duluth News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Duluth’s Oktoberfest is rolling into Bayfront Festival Park this weekend — think authentic German beer, hearty Bavarian eats, live music, and festive games. Hosted by Fest Master Michael Niemeyer, it’s the most legit Oktoberfest in Minnesota, complete with traditional vibes, dachshunds, and costumes. Tickets are on sale now — students get in free with ID. Don’t miss your chance to soak in real German culture right on the waterfront.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.northernnewsnow.com/2026/09/18/duluth-oktoberfest-returns-bayfront-festival-park/

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https://sources.thednn.ai/78794c0dd4913b65

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Birchwood Apartments in Duluth just got a $10.5 million makeover, saving 24 severely neglected homes and turning them into affordable, livable spaces for families paying just 30% of their income—just as the city battles a crushing housing shortage with skyrocketing prices and dwindling rentals. This isn’t just about fixing apartments; it’s a lifeline for the economy, tying housing to jobs, education, and healthcare. While this win is huge, officials know the crisis isn’t over—and they’re already hunting for more solutions, including zoning updates and new development.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.northernnewsnow.com/2026/09/18/grand-marais-apartment-renovation-adds-affordable-housing-amid-regional-shortage/

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https://sources.thednn.ai/b10e1bb66718338d

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Minnesota voters can start mailing or dropping off absentee ballots this Friday—no in-person voting yet, but early action is key. Ballots must physically arrive by 8 PM if mailed or 5 PM if hand-delivered on Election Day, November 3. Minnesota isn’t a “postmark state,” so timing matters. Despite federal funding cuts for election security, local officials are stepping up with their own resources and remain confident in county administrators to ensure a safe, accurate vote. Early in-person voting begins October 13—don’t miss your deadline.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.northernnewsnow.com/2026/09/17/early-absentee-voting-begin-friday-minnesota/

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Mesabi Metallics just hit a historic milestone in Nashwauk, Minnesota—unveiling the first iron ore concentrate from a brand-new mine and pellet plant in over 50 years. Dubbed the “patriot pellet,” this project aims to revive the Iron Range’s industrial might while slashing U.S. reliance on imported steel. Backed by a $770 million federal loan from EXIM, part of a $2.5 billion investment, the operation is a major win for America’s “Make More in America” push, symbolized by an on-site blast from EXIM’s top official—and a bold step toward domestic manufacturing dominance.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.northernnewsnow.com/2026/09/17/mesabi-metallics-celebrates-federal-support-progress-toward-pellet-production/

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Northland’s Best of the Best awards celebrated over 100 local favorites—from bakeries to bike shops—at Bent Paddle Brewing, honoring small businesses that power the community. Nominations opened in June, and winners like discoverpc.NET (10th straight win for best computer repair) and Kurtz Catering (7th win in 47 years) proved consistency wins. Real estate pro Aiden Bachand also shined, taking home top honors for agent and agency just a year after joining Re/Max. It’s a night of pride, grit, and hometown heroes—check the Duluth News Tribune for the full list.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/news-tribune-recognizes-2026-best-of-the-best-winners

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Tom Hansen, a broadcasting legend with 41 years in the Twin Ports, is being honored with the Upper Midwest Emmy’s Silver Circle — a lifetime achievement award for journalists with at least 25 years of service. A cornerstone of Northern News Now for 36 years and a mentor at UW-Superior, Hansen joins esteemed peers like Michelle Lee, Barbara Reyelts, Dave Jensch, and Dave Anderson in this prestigious recognition. Beyond accolades, he cherishes seeing his former students succeed and recalls unforgettable moments — from covering Super Bowls to pulling off live broadcasts during a station fire. For Hansen, local sports aren’t just games; they’re community stories rooted in passion and participation. The ceremony takes place October 17th in the Twin Cities — a fitting tribute to a career defined by dedication, storytelling, and legacy.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.northernnewsnow.com/2026/09/17/tom-hansen-inducted-into-upper-midwest-emmys-silver-circle/

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St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her is reversing the closure of the Dayton’s Bluff library and Highwood Hills Recreation Center after securing $574K in new revenue from Xcel Energy — including $300K from a renegotiated franchise fee and savings from shifting elections to even years. The funds will keep libraries open, maintain recreation center hours, and support enforcement of the city’s immigration separation ordinance. While one East Side rec center remains slated for closure, residents’ voices helped sway the mayor’s decision — and City Council approval is expected soon.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.startribune.com/kaohly-her-library-budget-cuts/601890811

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https://sources.thednn.ai/3008396aa87f3bac

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The Minnesota Twins are on a mission to sweep the Angels in a crucial four-game West Coast series, with Taj Bradley facing off against rookie Walbert Ureña in a matchup that could swing the playoff race. Bradley, with 11 wins and a strong ERA, brings a proven track record against LA, while Ureña, making his Twins debut, brings electric heat. Key bats like Mike Trout and Luke Keaschall will be pivotal, with Trout needing to quiet Bradley and Keaschall setting the table. First pitch is at 8:38 p.m. CT — don’t miss it on TwinsTV.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.si.com/mlb/twins/onsi/twins-get-top-prospect-back-in-lineup-for-angels-series-opener-01m2rmsrq882

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Zeitgeist, known for arts and theater, is turning its focus to infrastructure—launching an eight-week Transportation Academy in Duluth to empower residents to shape how they move through the Twin Ports. Designed to demystify complex planning processes, the program teaches community members how to engage with engineers and agencies before construction begins, ensuring voices from all walks of life—including walkers, bikers, and transit users—are heard. With past success like the Safer Sixth Avenue East project, Zeitgeist believes better transportation equals stronger communities and healthier lives. Upcoming sessions will feature local leaders to equip participants with real tools to advocate for change.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/local/transportation-academy-teaches-public-how-to-shape-road-projects

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https://sources.thednn.ai/76e31da433fa83b3

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Cenovus Energy is making a big splash by donating $260,000 to UW-Superior to fuel scholarships, leadership programs, and student research—spreading impact across six key initiatives to empower future leaders and strengthen the regional workforce. This isn’t their first rodeo with the university, as they’ve backed everything from research vessels to stadium construction, proving their long-term commitment to education and community growth.

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This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Sources:
https://www.northernnewsnow.com/2026/09/17/cenovus-commits-260000-uw-superior-scholarships-research-leadership-programs/

More coverage & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/6a8498b872547960

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