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Howie Hanson — Minnesota’s Columnist
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THE ARCHIVE

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Media

Howie: Laura Lee the next television anchor voice of the Northland

You can sense Lee's broadcast discipline the moment the red light clicks on. Her voice carries polish without pretense, her cadence deliberate but not cold. She has that calm, centered presence that suggests she’s not there to perform — she’s there to communicate.

6-minute read
Media

Howie: Darren Danielson, WDIO's statesman

That perfectionism has made WDIO what it is — the region’s dominant newscast for years running. Viewers know exactly what they’ll get: no chaos, no stunts, just clean, confident journalism. Danielson’s the face of that brand, but also its conscience.

5-minute read
Media

Howie: Dan Hanger’s quiet reign over the Twin Ports airwaves

If you watch Hanger closely, you’ll notice he occasionally glances at the prompter with a smirk, like he’s reminding himself not to take any of it too seriously. That’s a healthy instinct in an industry where self-importance runs rampant.

8-minute read
Minnesota's Rural Health Reckoning

Howie: When hospitals become economic engines

Dr. David Herman sees hospitals as ecosystems — living, breathing networks that keep small towns from disappearing. Duluth’s skyline now offers proof in steel and glass. The new St. Mary’s Medical Center doesn’t just treat patients. It sends a message: downtown Duluth still matters.

4-minute read