Howie Hanson

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Howie: Why would any smart newspaper keep printing? Nobody reads — or pays — for a paper anymore.

Howie: Why would any smart newspaper keep printing? Nobody reads — or pays — for a paper anymore.

If I were running a local news outfit, I’d drop print tomorrow. I’d shove every last nickel into being the most relentless, indispensable, hyper-local digital news shop this side of the Mississippi. I’d break stories first, tell them sharper, dig harder than any neighboring outlet.

Howie on Local Media: Pine Knot News racks up statewide honors, KBJR the gold standard in regional television news

Howie on Local Media: Pine Knot News racks up statewide honors, KBJR the gold standard in regional television news

Unlike many small papers hollowed out by budget cuts or distant ownership, the Pine Knot’s modest downtown office remains a lively hub. Readers drop by to pay subscriptions, slip engagement announcements over the counter, or tip off staff to the next big council fight.

Only one surefire NHLer in this bunch, and it’s Kleber — but he’s not there yet

Only one surefire NHLer in this bunch, and it’s Kleber — but he’s not there yet

"So yeah — I’ll stick with my stubborn verdict: only Kleber looks like a clear top-six NHLer in waiting. The rest are chasing it, and there’s no shame in that." -- Howie Hanson

DECC, Duluth FC, Wyatt Carlson in the news

DECC, Duluth FC, Wyatt Carlson in the news

Truth is, nobody does this kind of whimsical civic experience quite like the DECC. Remember their other big swings? The glitzy Bentleyville Christmas village that practically owns our lakefront each winter. The rollicking Oktoberfest.

St. Louis County waives permit fees for rebuilding after wildfire

St. Louis County

St. Louis County waives permit fees for rebuilding after wildfire

Information on what materials can be disposed of at this location, and what needs to be separated, can be found online at stlouiscountymn.gov or by calling 218-749-9703.

Howie: Look at this political football, folks

Howie: Look at this political football, folks

Essentia’s playing lawyer ball with the National Labor Relations Board’s Health Care Rule, which basically says: hospitals and clinics shouldn’t be smashed into one bargaining zoo because, you know, patients need care.

Ask the Locals: Holiday Inn & Suites Duluth-Downtown is our region’s premier place to stay and dine

Ask the Locals: Holiday Inn & Suites Duluth-Downtown is our region’s premier place to stay and dine

It’s a combination of location, hospitality, amenities and smart pricing that makes the Holiday Inn & Suites Duluth-Downtown the first place locals recommend when friends, family, or out-of-town clients ask where they should book.

Duluth Chamber emerges as state’s model for business-government partnership under Baumgartner’s vision

Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce

Duluth Chamber emerges as state’s model for business-government partnership under Baumgartner’s vision

“I am so appreciative of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce and the energy and strategic advocacy the member organizations provide, and have deep respect for Matt and the Chamber leadership team.” -- Kevin Gray, St. Louis County’s top administrator

Concert series set to bring live music back aboard the William A. Irvin

Concert series set to bring live music back aboard the William A. Irvin

The events are truly a Duluth-style night out. Where else can you watch the sun set over Lake Superior, see the Lift Bridge rise, and hear great music from the deck of a 1930s freighter?

Duluth’s story deserves local storytellers — and local investment

Duluth’s story deserves local storytellers — and local investment

Mayor Roger Reinert has wisely steered Duluth back toward local control of its marketing by restoring Visit Duluth’s contract. Now there’s a chance to finish the job: to keep more of that marketing spend right here.

Howie: Remembering Terry Egerdahl, the Proctor kid whose heart shaped a community

Howie: Remembering Terry Egerdahl, the Proctor kid whose heart shaped a community

Eggs’ sudden death sent shock waves through the community. A promising young coach, a loyal friend, a local legend — gone in an instant.

Chloe Johnson No. 2 on list of top Class of 2028 high school girls basketball prospects nationally

Chloe Johnson No. 2 on list of top Class of 2028 high school girls basketball prospects nationally

Ranked No. 2 overall by ASGR and the top point guard by ESPN for 2028, Johnson combines court vision and a smooth shooting stroke. Her early varsity success has already positioned her as one of the Midwest’s most closely followed recruits.