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Dennis O'Hara

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Our purpose is to foster a connected, vibrant, and growing city.

Mission

Our mission is to curate and create content that inspires, educates,
and connects people to Duluth, showcasing its unique quality of place.

Vision

Our Vision is to see people filled with a deep sense of belonging and identity with Duluth.

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Intentional. Positive. Genuine. We believe that our purposeful action opens doors, positive attitude invites others to step through, and authentic relationships give the grounding to repeat this process.

REVIEW - Looking for Light in the Darkness in “Next to Normal”

 

Destination Duluth Arts & Entertainment Review of Duluth Playhouse's "Next to Normal."

Photographer Steve Mattson's Facebook post states, "The level of talent on stage and in the pit is extraordinary. What a gift, having the ability to stroll into the Norshor on a gloomy Saturday afternoon for a couple of hours and then walk out moved, glassy-eyed, and thankful for the Arts our community provides and supports. Well done, All!"

Chronic mental illness has touched almost every family, and sadly is becoming even more prevalent today. It is hard to fathom the heartache, devastation, and pain felt by the husbands, wives, and most particularly the children, as they helplessly watch their loved ones spiral down into an abyss of darkness.

Director Wes Drummond tackles these issues head on with the 2010 Pulitzer Prize winner, and the 2009 winner of three Tony awards, “Next to Normal.” This is not your light-hearted, “feel-good” musical, but it is dazzling in its brutal honesty and in its raw emotion, driving its messages home with a magnificent cast of six actors and a fabulous orchestra.

On the surface and from the outside, the play’s Goodman family seems “normal,” with the loving parents, Diana and Dan, their teenaged son Gabe and daughter Natalie.

But as one lyric says about the Goodman house, “Everything is perfect and nothing is real.” After an early tragic incident, Diana has withdrawn for nearly twenty years into the depths of bipolar disorder, and no amount of psychotropic drugs or even ultimately electroconvulsive therapy, have been able to help her.

Jen Burleigh-Bentz breaks the audience’s hearts as the bruised and broken Diana, wanting so desperately to be the wife and mother her family needs, and trying unsuccessfully every day just to “hold it all together”.

Jen Burleigh-Bentz plays Diana, in the lead role of Next to Normal at the Duluth Playhouse. Photo by Terry Cartie Norton

In her most anguished song “You Don’t Know,” the audience is able to fully sense the searing pain Diana’s illness has caused her when she vocalizes, “Do you know, do you know what it's like to die alive?” In every song, Burleigh-Bentz bares the very depths of Diana’s tattered soul using her masterful soprano voice to its full advantage.

Thomas Bevan delivers a nuanced performance as the ever-patient and devoted husband and caretaker Dan, who is only surviving by “Living on a latte and a prayer.” Bevan has a powerful voice that can, in turns, show both his fear about what he can’t control and his quiet despair as Diana’s manic-depressive episodes destroy all their lives.

Bevan shows how Dan is truly a “good man” constantly trying to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives who is pushed to the edge mentally and emotionally himself.

Bevan’s clearest statement in song about his life and his view of himself, is in “I Am The One.” He tries to make Diana see that he is the one who knows her, the one who cares, the one who has always been there, which sends her into a combative argument, leading them on a path to nowhere, especially when Gabe jumps into the vocal argument.

Natalie, played brilliantly by Daylen Moore, is a lost soul who has never felt much of any affection or even acknowledgment from her mother. In “Super Boy and the Invisible Girl,” Moore seizes the moment to reveal the essence of her character to the audience, using their amazing Broadway belt voice to tell their story.

Moore’s songs in Act II. get even more impressive as they ride the roller coaster of emotions, wanting to be angry at everyone and have someone show her love at the same time. Moore breaks the audience’s hearts with their lament, “I don’t need a life that’s normal/That’s way too far away/But something next to normal/Would be okay.”

On the periphery of the staging and at the story’s heart, all at the same time, is the son Gabe. Jake S. Nelson shows the intensity of his character’s rebelliousness, petulance, and even anger, as he fights for his mother’s exclusive attention. Nelson’s best vocals were in his anthem “I’m Alive” where the rock score is particularly suited for his voice.

Playing both of Diana’s doctors, the aptly named Dr. Fine and Dr. Madden, Antony Ferguson has some of the show’s few comic moments, and convincingly presents how, though well-meaning, the medical establishment is at a loss of how to “cure” Diana. Ferguson’s playing a rock star in one of Diana’s fantasies demonstrated both his comic chops and his strong voice.

SJ Olson plays the only character from the “real” world who comes into the Goodman home as Natalie’s boyfriend, Henry. Olson humorously plays the “stoner” kid and the sweetness of a sympathetic shoulder for Natalie to cry on, as her world falls even more apart. Vocally, Olson had a few early issues with their lower register, but they got stronger as the play progressed, especially with “Perfect for You.”

Music Director Beth Brophy brought together a tight six-piece band, with musicians at the top of their game playing a difficult score. Bravo to musicians Kyle Picha, Emily Ramsey, Toko Nakajima, Gregg Curleo, Cory Clay, and Kurt Savela.

All the shows technical aspects were firing on all cylinders too, including designers Nick Gosen (Sound), Curtis Phillps (set) and Jeff Brown (lighting), all doing some of their best work.

Sleek and sophisticated with angles, two-levels, and wrought iron railings, Phillips’ set for “Next to Normal” is appropriate for the home of an architect, Dan’s occupation in the play.

Curtis Phillips is the Scenic Designer of Next to Normal. Lighting Designer: Jeff Brown, Sound Designer: Nick Gosen, Costume Designer: Caitlin Quinn, Prop Designer: Carrie Powers Greer. Photo by Terry Cartie Norton

In a play where light is a strong symbol and is also integral to the show’s themes and motifs, Brown’s lighting design is exciting and dynamic, with hundreds of light cues, all emblematic of the music, lyrics, mood, characters, and the intensity of the story.

The lighting design by Jeff Brown is integral, exciting and dynamic. Photo by Terry Cartie Norton.

Kudos to Wes Drummond for choosing and bringing to life a show that is challenging for the actors, the production team, the orchestra, and ultimately also for the audience. While it may not be known to many audience members, it is as deserving to be seen as “The Sound of Music” and “Young Frankenstein,” or any other musical this season.

After the cast finishes the final song, “Light,” the audience is left mostly silent and emotionally drained. The show leaves everyone with more questions than answers and, undoubtedly, was the impetus for after-show discussion about where the Goodman family could possibly go from here.

Yet there is a glimmer of hope for this tortured family, as the lyrics of the final song “Light” assert, “We'll find the will to find our way/ Knowing that the darkest skies will someday see the sun.”

 Note: This production is intended for mature audiences and contains profanity, depictions of mental illness, drug use, and self-harm.

Information for “Next to Normal”

Music by Tom Kitt and Book and Lyrics by Brian Yorkey
Running March 15-31
Saturday matinee on March 16 @2 pm
Sunday matinees on March 24 & 31 at 2 pm
Audio description March 16 @ 2 pm
ASL interpretation on March 29 @ 7:30 pm
For tickets, call 218.733.7555. or visit the Playhouse site @ duluthplayhouse.org

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Duluth’s DECC Offers Nine Exciting Venues

The Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center (DECC) hosted 420 events in 2023, with 600,000 visitors. Photo submitted.

Every part of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center(DECC) is there to be a perfect gathering space for people, whether for local attendees or for visitors from outside the area.

The DECC provides two beautiful ballrooms, thirty meeting rooms, and 120,000 square feet of exhibit space. The entire complex has been designed to suit every group and is barrier-free in compliance with the ADA.

According to Dan Hartman, DECC Executive Director, “We are working with nine different venues within our DECC organization. The venues include AMSOIL Arena, DECC Arena, Symphony Hall, Pioneer Hall, Paulucci Hall, the City Side Convention Center, the Harbor Side Convention Center, Bayfront Festival Park, and the William A. Irvin.”

Dan Hartman is the Executive Director of the DECC. Photo by Lynette's Portrait Design.

“We know when we have events at the DECC that we are bringing people to town who will also shop, eat, stay, and boost our local economy. We want to bring entertainment and programming in that covers a wide variety of interests and appeals to all age groups,” explained Hartman.

“We have been pleased that the state legislature continues to support us with our facilities needs so that we can work to keep all parts of our venue running smoothly and efficiently,” he added. “We also appreciate the community support in attending our events.”

Event Planning Starts at the DECC

Event planners are able to find a wide range of venues and facilities for any event. The DECC has 250,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit spaces, ballrooms, and a variety of meeting rooms. The DECC team was excited to host 420 events in 2023, with 600,000 visitors.

They offer large spaces in their AMSOIL Arena and DECC Arena and smaller spaces in their Pioneer and Paulucci Halls. Their online floor plans will help groups find the best the space for their events.

Amsoil Arena is the home of University of Minnesota Duluth hockey and serves as a venue for larger shows. Photo submitted.

In 2010, the DECC met the needs for a space for UMD hockey games and exciting music events by adding their AMSOIL Arena. AMSOIL was designed for all event-goers to feel part of the action, even while visiting the concession stands. It was named the best college hockey arena in the country by Stadium Journey,

Pioneer Hall is a great place to host an expo or to practice curling, Built in 1976, this hall boasts 48,000 square feet of exhibit space. Divided into two rooms during the winter months, North Pioneer Hall is home to the Duluth Curling Club who has hosted two World Championships, the U.S. Olympic Trials, and numerous national events. South Pioneer Hall is used year round for expo space, catered events, concerts, and other events.

Paulucci Hall was named for a Duluth legend, Jeno Paulucci, and is often used for expos and trade shows. Built along with the original Duluth Arena Auditorium in 1966, Paulucci Hall is host to exhibits and displays during a number of annual expos.

The DECC’s two skating sheets of ice and one curling facility can be used or transformed for different activities and events, including hockey, curling and ice skating. The rinks are also available for rent.

Some of the DECC’s most popular recent events have been the Robotics Tournaments, drawing teams from all over the Midwest, and the Duluth Winter Village which has quickly become a popular tradition with twenty-five thousand attendees per year.

With Father-Daughter Balls, Cirrus events, fundraisers for St.Luke’s, 148th ceremonies, U of M white coat ceremonies, many high school and college graduations, and as a destination for cruise ships, the DECC is always a community hub of activity.

Attracting Conventions to Duluth

“The beauty of Duluth and Lake Superior right out our doors, are a big draw for conventions from throughout the country,” said Hartman. “What makes a meeting in Duluth is Duluth itself. The Lake and shoreline sell themselves. If people come once, they come back. Duluth is definitely the place to be.”

In 2023, the DECC was busy with 51 conventions and 47,310 attendees. Conventions included such diverse organizations as the MN State Fire Chiefs Association, MN Association of Children's Mental Health, the American Waterworks Association, and a Climate Change Conference. The DECC was also host to over 10,000 people for other meetings in 2023.

Added in 1990, the DECC’s City Side Convention Center is perfect for social and business events, state, national, and international conventions, and everything in between. The Harbor Side Convention Center dazzles with its views of the Lake, the Bridge, and Canal Park, and is a favorite for wedding parties, conventions, and meetings.

The view from the Symphony Hall Mezzanine built in 1966 in mid-century modern style. Photo submitted.

From the Lake Superior Ballroom with its views of the Duluth’s skyline to the ten meeting rooms and 15,000 square foot Edmund Fitzgerald Exhibit Hall, the options for conventions are appealing. The beautifully appointed 26,000 square foot ballroom will seat 1,300 people for dinner or break into five separate meeting rooms.

Edmund Fitzgerald Hall offers 15,000 square feet of the best meeting space. Located on the first floor, it is convenient, near registration and meeting rooms and connects with Pioneer Hall and the DECC Arena for additional exhibit space.

Duluths Destination” Wedding Site

The DECC is the ideal wedding venue for receptions and even as a ceremony site. With an in-house catering department and spaces that can be designed for any type of wedding, the Harbor Side and City Side Convention Centers offer beautiful, scenic venues and rooms to decorate for any couple, their wedding party, and their guests.

The DECC has everything needed for dinners and receptions for any size event. Photo submitted.

The DECC has separate rooms available to rent for ceremonies, including two dressing rooms. They can also provide chairs, one wired microphone, and tables for the gifts and guest books.

Centrally located for in-town and out of town wedding guests, the DECC is within walking distance to many destination hotels and restaurants, and offers indoor skywalk access to Downtown.

The DECC’s expert wedding planners, site tours, and information packets are helpful ways to take the stress out of.,planning every style of wedding.

Delicious Catered Food for any Event

For groups who are interested in having food for their events, the DECC’s in-house catering staff is prepared to provide delicious food onsite. Whether it is for a wedding, a private party, a convention, or any other event, the staff will work to meet the needs of each group.

The DECC’s in-house catering department focuses on serving food created with ingredients that are as locally sourced as possible. Some of the local vendors they work with include: Duluth Coffee Company, Upper Lakes Foods, A Dozen Excuses Donuts & More, Johnson’s Bakery, Bent Paddle Brewing Co., Duluth Coffee Company, Mike and Jen’s Cocoa, Northern Waters Smokehaus, and Fraboni’s, The DECC also uses locally brewed beers, ciders, and spirits.

Symphony Hall: Home for the Arts

With its specially designed hall for the best acoustics, the 2,221 seat Symphony Hall and its ALLETE stage are home to both the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra and Minnesota Ballet. Symphony Hall is also host to an array of arts, including concerts, Broadway plays, operas, dance recitals, and high school graduations.

A capacity crowd enjoys a comedy show in Symphony Hall. Photo submitted.

Hartman noted, “This is the place to enjoy the best of area and visiting artists, performers, and entertainers. We were very successful with the touring production of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ and hope to bring in additional Broadway tours.”

Old Dominion performs at Amsoil Arena. Photo submitted.

Expos and Shows Galore

Each year, the DECC hosts expos for every interest including: Motorhead Madness, the Arrowhead Home and Builders Show, Duluth Junk Hunt, the Duluth Sport Show, Food Shows, the Minnesota Quilt Show, the Home and Builders’ Show, the Wedding Show, and many more.

Summer’s signature event each year, Grandma’s Marathon, is also a busy time for the DECC. They serve as the location for the race packet pickups, the Essential Health Fitness Expo, and Michelina’s All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner

Fun fact: The spaghetti feed takes 2,400 lbs of spaghetti (over a ton!), 5,000 lbs of sauce (elevated with basil and pesto), 2,500 lbs of meatballs, 25 lbs of basil, and 360 lbs of lettuce.

Opening the Doors to More

Bayfront Festival Park, with its beautiful grounds and stunning view of Lake Superior, is the place for music, entertainment, art, food, and fun. The colorful atmosphere with events such as Art in the Park, Taste of Duluth, the Fourth Fest, the Reggae and World Music Festival, the Blues Festival, and music events with groups like Trampled By Turtles and solo artists such as Willie Nelson make the Bayfront party atmosphere come alive every year.

Another popular Bayfront attraction, run by the DECC, is the lake freighter, the William A. Irvin, open for tours beginning in May. Activities onboard for kids include a popular “seek and find” adventure. “My kids love the Irvin tour. It is family friendly and very tactile,” said Hartman.

The William A Irvin ship museum is open for tours May-October. Photo by northernimages.com

Attention to Detail From a Great Team

According to the DECC website, “At the DECC, attention is paid to every detail, and every detail is tailored to fit your plans. From the magnificent ballrooms and meeting rooms to the expansive exhibit halls, you’ll enjoy an architect’s masterpiece and experience a meeting planner’s dream. Here lies the perfect space for your next meeting, convention or social event.

Hartman added, “It is very gratifying to watch a well-executed event be successful. That happens because of our hard-working team and crew.”

Major material for this article is provided by the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center website.

For more information on the DECC’s programming and services, visit decc.org or their Facebook page.

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At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café Is A Farm-to-Table Dining Adventure

DD Eat & Drink Duluth Review - At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café

Located at 1902 East 8th Street – in the former home of Taran’s Food Market – is At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café (ASTCCC). This sweet, unique restaurant in the heart of Duluth’s Chester Park neighborhood offers farm-to-table fare and deliciously creative cooking. They grow some of their produce and even have an on-site bakery.

ASTCCC has its own on-site bakery, featuring a wide variety of delicious treats.

The diverse restaurant menu provides options for everyone. “We specialize in gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian cuisine, and we also cater to people with food allergies,” explained Executive Chef Jillian Forte. “In fact, everyone who works here receives training on food allergies.”

Whether you have special dietary needs or not, everyone can find something tasty at ASTCCC. There are plenty of menu options for vegetarians and carnivores alike.

With over 2,000 Google reviews, and an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, the restaurant has become a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Please join us as we Eat & Drink Duluth – the ASTCCC way!

History

Opened in 2002, the restaurant is owned by Barb Neubert and Carla Blumberg. As an LGBTQ-owned restaurant, ASTCCC prides itself on being welcoming to all.

When remodeling this former grocery store, the women prioritized salvaging as many materials as possible.

Guests are welcomed with a sign that features ASTCCC owners, Barb Neubert and Carla Blumberg.

For instance, the wooden ceiling in the “front dining room” is made with boards from an old walk-in cooler that was originally in the grocery’s basement. The “rear dining room” tin ceiling is from the original grocery ceiling. And the booths, tables, wait station, and bookshelves are all made from salvaged lumber, too.

In the back room of the restaurant is a library with bookshelves made from reclaimed wood.

As the story goes, each selected a different name for the restaurant. Barb wanted At Sara’s Table, and Carla wanted Chester Creek Café, so the names were combined, and At Sara's Table Chester Creek Café was born.

Vibe

The restaurant is outfitted with many beautiful touches: a tin ceiling, wooden bookshelves and seating options, and even a “library” area filled with books and plants. A fireplace keeps the lobby area warm, and the bakery cases are filled with scrumptious desserts.

The interior of the restaurant features cozy touches, including reclaimed wood, plants, and a fireplace.

A gorgeous outdoor patio provides a great place to dine or have a beverage during the warmer months. There is even a beautiful “Sky Room” located upstairs, which can be rented for private events.

We opted for an early dinner on a Friday afternoon, and our fellow patrons included couples and larger groups.

Food

ASTCCC offers a dizzying array of food and drink. From 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., a variety of delicious breakfast items are served.

Beyond that, there are appetizers, sandwiches, specialties, salads, soup, dinners, appetizers, and “mains.” A rotating features menu is available every weekend. The restaurant offers a kids’ menu, too. Beverages include teas, juices, specialty coffees, mocktails, cocktails, wine, and beer.

ASTCCC offers a comprehensive wine list. We sampled the One Stone Cellars Cabernet and the Joliesse Cabernet.

Mike and I each ordered a glass of red wine. With some assistance from Tabe, I selected the One Stone Cellars Cabernet from Paso Robles, California. This delicious red had notes of cherry and plum.

Mike selected the Joliesse Cabernet from Napa Valley, California. This velvety vino featured hints of juicy blackberry.

For dinner, I selected the Paella. From the menu:
Sea scallops, Gulf Coast shrimp, Yker Acres chorizo sausage, golden rice, saffron sofrito, peas, piquillo peppers, and lemon.

The Paella is chock full of delicious protein and features tons of color and flavor.

With a combination of tender rice and plenty of protein, this dish was a delight for the senses. Two generous, seared scallops, three plump shrimp, and several slices of chorizo – which had a significant kick – were beautifully displayed atop a mound of golden rice. The piquillo peppers (sweet chili peppers with no heat), and plenty of fresh green peas added delicious flavor and some lovely color to the dish.

Mike selected the open-faced turkey dinner. From the menu:
Organic Ferndale Farms turkey breast, cranberry wild rice toast, beet-cranberry sauce, potato-parsnip mash & herbed gravy.

The open-faced turkey dinner is a delicious comfort meal with a twist.

This delicious comfort meal was a throwback to a home-cooked Thanksgiving dinner but with a twist. The beets in the cranberry sauce offered a slightly more complex flavor profile, and the thick cranberry wild rice toast was a nice addition. Although parsnips were blended with the mashed potatoes, they were undetectable to us. The texture of the potatoes was mostly smooth, with a few yummy, chewy bites. The turkey was perfectly salty and topped with the most delicious gravy – which contained more bits of that savory turkey and was flavored with various herbs and spices.

Service

Our server, Tabe Elliott, has worked at ASTCCC for about a year and a half and started as a host. His engaging personality is no doubt a huge part of his promotion to server. Tabe answered questions about the wine list, menu, and history of the restaurant with ease.

Executive Chef Jillian Forte and Server Tabe Elliott take time out for a photo.

Executive Chef Jillian stopped by to discuss the menu, and Social Media Manager Jude also visited us to chat about Destination Duluth, restaurant photo options, and more. In our experience, the staff at ASTCCC were incredibly polite, friendly, and willing to help in every way.

Tabe shared that the most popular menu items are the Fusion Curry (which I have enjoyed on a separate occasion – it is delicious), the Cowboy Hash breakfast, or the Okonamiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake.

Verdict

At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café has earned its reputation as a well-loved Duluth treasure for a reason.  ASTCCC is a fantastic place to experience unique cuisine, beverages, and delightful baked goods in a cozy, comfortable setting.

The restaurant’s culinary staff puts much effort into offering tasty dishes, opting for locally grown and sourced ingredients whenever possible. And the service is excellent. The restaurant and patio are getting a bit of a remodel this summer, so patrons can expect to see a few changes in the aesthetic sometime soon.

If you want to expand your palate or even enjoy a home-cooked classic with a twist, this is your place.

Please visit astccc.net to learn more.

___________________________________________________________________

About Andrea Busche, Eat & Drink Duluth Editor

Andrea Busche is a Duluth and regional freelance writer credited with over 1,000 bylines in local print and digital publications. Her food column, Local Pairings, was first featured in Duluth.com magazine, and later published in the Duluth News Tribune from 2016-2018.

 

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DECC Hosts Motorhead Madness Car Show March 23-24

Mike Busche

Motorhead Madness is the Northland’s Biggest Indoor Custom Car Show

Arena view from the 2023 Motorhead Madness. Photo by Katrina Jensen

For over fifty years, Motorhead Madness (previously known as the World of Wheels) has been taking place the third weekend in March, featuring all varieties of cars. This includes customs, street rods, trucks, cycles, race cars, rat rods, muscle cars, and antique vehicles.

For car geeks, grease monkeys, and gearheads everywhere, Motorhead Madness is the place to be to enjoy the hard work and vehicles from like-minded car aficionados. It’s decidedly “car central” for people who love to talk with others about their cars.

Long-time owner of Motorhead Madness Jack Dejoy’s Cadillac. Photo by Mike Busche

History

In 2021, long-time owner Jack DeJoy decided to sell Motorhead Madness. Around this time, a group of three friends - Mike Podgornik, Dean Birman, and Mike Busche - purchased the show. They renamed it Veit Automotive Foundation Motorhead Madness, presented by Hunt Electric, as an homage to two of the show’s top sponsors.

Sadly, in 2020 and 2021, due to Covid, the owners could not hold the show. In 2022, however, the new owners were thrilled to bring Motorhead Madness back, and it was better attended than ever, with over 6,000 spectators.

“The show has been great the last two years,” said Busche. “Bigger than we expected! Because of time off work due to Covid, many people had more time to work on their cars, allowing for the completion of many freshly-built vehicles that people have not seen before.”

Luke Merrill's 1940 Chevrolet (2023 best of show winner). Photo by Mike Busche 

Entertainment and Vendors

In addition to the vehicles on display, show attendees can enjoy a variety of entertainment for all ages.

For the kids, there are Lake Superior Radio Control Car Club Races, toys, “make and take” models, Modelmania (competition for model builders, kids, and adults), and a Dragster Reaction Simulator. A new addition this year will be competitions and demonstrations by Harbor City Robot Riot.

One of the weekend’s highly anticipated events is the Miss Motorhead Contest, sponsored by the Border Town Betties. This competition features women in attire from the 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s. Contestants are judged on their hair/makeup/wardrobe, personalities, and thoughtful responses to questions.

For spectators, hourly door prizes, including tools, gift cards, and more, will be given out throughout the weekend. And, during the show, participants can watch a car being pin-striped by Dillon Aistrop, and two others being wrapped by Statt Wraps.

Various vendors will be on hand, selling memorabilia, car supplies, signs (metal and neon), tires, and more. Food options include all the DECC’s delicious concessions and other treats, such as mini-doughnuts, honey-roasted nuts, and more.

Generous Prizes

Entrants in the show are eligible for a variety of prizes. This includes:

  • Best of Show ($1,000)
  • Best Creative Display ($500)
  • Star of the North Award ($500) - Open to first-time participants
  • Rising Star, Outstanding Entry, and Best Paint, which are all open to exhibitors under age 30
  • Magnificent Seven – Awarded to the judges’ seven favorite entries
  • Plus, awards for several different categories of vehicles.

New in 2023, and continuing this year, is the Young Backyard Builders Award, presented by the Veit Automotive Foundation. “We wanted to make the show appealing to all ages,” said Busche. “So, we started the Young Backyard Builders Program.”

For the Young Backyard Builders’ Program, participants must:

  • Be 18-27 years of age.
  • Have built the majority of their car or truck themselves.
  • Be a registered entrant for the 2024 Motorhead Madness show, and be present with their car or truck during the show, in order to compete.

The winner will receive a full toolbox and $500.

Giving Back to the Community

A $3,000 check is presented to the Wounded Warriors last years show. Photo submitted.

Giving back to the community is important to Motorhead Madness. According to Busche, “In 2022, a portion of the proceeds were donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland. Last year, we chose the Wounded Warriors United - Minnesota as our recipient. This year, Wildwoods, a non-profit dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife, is our non-profit of choice.”

Wildwoods work to help orphaned, sick, and injured animals return to their natural lives. Submitted.

Some of the proceeds come from sales of show merchandise, including Motorhead Madness-branded shirts and hats. Wildwoods will also have a booth at the show.

Motorhead Madness will be held Saturday, March 23, from 10 am to 9 pm and Sunday, March 24, from 10 am to 5 pm at the DECC.

For more information, please visit motorheadmadnessmn.com

Tickets are available at the DECC Box Office the week of the show and online at decc.org. Dollar-off coupons are available at all local RSC/Auto Value locations.

 

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How Canal Park Went From Junkyard To Gem

 

What we now call the Lakewalk looked like this in the late 1960's or early 1970's. Duluth News Tribune photos.

The Lakewalk today. Photo by Joe Garfield @shotbygarf

How Canal Park went from junkyard to gem

Make no bones about it: Duluth is an absolute hotspot for tourists.

The Duluth of today – particularly the Canal Park area - enjoys a well-deserved reputation as a tourist destination. People flock here in droves to enjoy the city’s natural beauty, vibrant arts culture, and many attractions and events.

In fact, according to the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce, a whopping 6.7 million people visit Duluth annually. This makes tourism one of the city’s largest industries, creating well over $780 million in annual direct economic impact.[1]

But it hasn’t always been this way. Going back to the 1960s, Canal Park was a gritty, industrial area often used as a dumping ground. Old junk cars, piled two and three high, were unceremoniously discarded on the shores of Lake Superior.

It’s hard to imagine the site of the current Lakewalk – one of our fine city’s greatest jewels - being used as a trash can. But it’s true.

Canal Park in the 1960's. Photo submitted.

It took several successful visionary businessmen to suggest a change. They developed a plan to implement a tourism tax. The strategy was to have visitors invest in attracting more visitors. This tax has since allowed for the regional marketing of Duluth as a destination, improvements to the DECC, financial support of local groups and attractions, and spurred the investment citywide of millions of dollars by private investors.

So, Duluth’s success as a tourist mecca is ultimately due, in large part, to a few strategic visionaries … and taxes.

Local Historian

Tony Bronson has become a bit of an expert on Duluth’s revitalization. He has worked for the Grandma’s Restaurant family for 36 years and holds the title Director of Business Development - Grandma’s Restaurant Company.

Tony Bronson has worked for Grandma's Restaurants for 36 years and has become a Canal Park and Duluth tourism historian. Photo submitted.

Once he landed his job at Grandma’s, Bronson never looked back. “Working at Grandma’s is the college job I never left,” he said with a chuckle.

“Sometimes I think Duluth's tourism and hospitality industries get a bad rap. People will say they offer low wages and offer no career pathways,” he added. “But I disagree. It’s my passion, and it’s many people’s passion. Duluth’s hospitality industry has provided a great life for me and my family, and I am grateful for it.”

Bronson believes tourism is one of the four pillars of Duluth’s success. “It’s all about tourism, education, aviation, and healthcare,” he said. “So, tourism is worthy of investment, and in turn, provides a good return investment in our community.”

Bronson undoubtedly walks the walk. He is the current President of the Canal Park Business Association and President of the Duluth Local Restaurant Association. Additionally, he is the past Board Chair for Visit Duluth and the Bentleyville Tour of Lights. These “extracurricular activities” are enjoyable for Bronson and part of his job.

“In my 36 years at Grandma’s, it’s been part of my duties to be involved in the community,” he explained. “This includes volunteering, being on different boards, and being involved in what’s going on around town. Over time, I became interested in learning as much as I could about tourism in Duluth and, subsequently, the origins of the tourism tax.”

Visionaries behind Duluth Tourism

Bronson shared a bit about the topic of tourism in Duluth. “Back in the 1960s, a group of local business people that I consider to be visionary – including Jeno Paulucci, an American food industry magnate, investor, and philanthropist; and retail/hotel magnates, Erwin and Monnie Goldfine – had this idea that Duluth could really be something. Duluth and its hospitality industry could be an attraction.

“Now, it seems like a no-brainer, but nobody had thought of it up to that point,” he added. “It required vision.”

These visionary businessmen decided to propose the idea of a self-imposed tax that would be turned over to the city – called a hotel/motel tax. The first 5% of the tax would go to a general operating fund for the city. Another 65% of the tax was proposed to go to the Duluth Arena Auditorium (now known as the DECC), which was built in 1966. And the remaining 35% would be spent on advertising and publicity for the Duluth Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (now called Visit Duluth).

Groundbreaking for the Duluth Arena Auditorium - now known as the DECC - Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. Submitted photo.

On March 17th, 1969, the Duluth City Council approved this proposal, and the city’s “tourism tax” was born. “This is when Duluth started to get some traction and get on the map for tourism,” Bronson said.

History of the Tourism Tax

Since its inception in 1969, these taxes have had an immense impact on making Duluth a welcoming destination for visitors. Over the years, revenue from these taxes has been used to improve and update the DECC (and helped foot the bill for adding Amsoil Arena), clean up Canal Park, support and modernize Spirit Mountain and other attractions, and much more.

The DECC today. Photo submitted by DECC.

There is no question that the tourism tax has contributed much to improving Duluth.

A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

While Bronson has a particular fondness for Canal Park, considering how he has worked there for 36 years, he is glad to see how the tourism industry has helped to improve many other Duluth neighborhoods, too.

“To paraphrase Paul Wellstone, ‘We all do better when we all do better,’” he said. “I see the Craft District of Lincoln Park, the college campus area, the St. Louis River Corridor, and Lakeside improving and adding shopping districts, hotels, et cetera, and I am so happy about this. The more attractions, the better for Duluth. We in Canal Park are comfortable knowing that, at some point during their stay, tourists will come here.

“And to this day, when people say Canal Park is overdeveloped and commercialized, I say, ‘Look at the alternative. Look at what it used to be. Now, it’s a nice, clean neighborhood with restaurants, shopping, breweries, distilleries, and other great attractions.’”

“Tourism is an industry that I’m proud to be a part of,” Bronson added. “It has made Duluth a better community for visitors and citizens alike.”

[1] Visitors - Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce (duluthchamber.com)

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Outside Magazine was the inspiration to #befromDuluth

When Duluth won Outside Magazine's "Best Town in America" Contest, the August 2014 cover story spurred Tanner and Pamela Hermes to move to Duluth. 

Destination Duluth's
Photographer Profile Series

 Tanner Hermes

Tanner and Pam Hermes with their two children - Hazel (7) and Hunter (3). Photo submitted.

Although his Louisiana accent has faded with time, Tanner Hermes’ southern charm and good manners remain firmly intact. One of four children born to Randal and Susan Hermes, a police officer and a school teacher, Tanner is polite and well-spoken. “My mom was very big on grammar,” he noted.

What is a Louisiana boy doing way up here in the Great Northwoods? you may be wondering. Hermes was inspired to move here after reading Outside Magazine’s 2014 story, “Why Duluth is the Best Town in America,” written by Stephanie Pearson. [1]

“I love the fact that Duluth has a small-town feel, but with tons of amenities,” he shared. “I can ski, rock climb, and even mountain bike right out my back door. There are great restaurants, breweries, and shopping. Our kids love the zoo and the aquarium. And everything is so easily accessible and right in front of us – with no traffic.”

Youth and Education

Athletics were a significant part of Hermes’ youth. He played several sports, but truly excelled on the football field.

Hermes played college football at Louisiana Tech, earning a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology – studying human movement. His alma mater is located right in his hometown of Ruston, Louisiana.

He later graduated with a master’s degree in medical science from Arcadia University’s physician assistant program in Philadelphia. Before moving to the Twin Ports, Hermes and his wife, Pam, lived in Seattle for seven years.

Today, Hermes lives right here in Duluth. He and Pam have two young children – Hazel (7), and Hunter (3), and a Springer Spaniel named Tug. Hermes is a physician assistant at Orthopedic Associates. He is also a relatively new, but highly talented photographer.

He and his family made the move in 2017, and today, he considers Duluth home.

Draw to Medicine

Tanner Hermes, PA-C, Orthopedics. Photo by Orthopedics Associates.

Hermes first considered a career in medicine because of his involvement in sports. “I was initially interested in physical therapy,” he said. “I felt it was a natural progression from playing sports.

“But I also enjoyed surgery and orthopedics. I did some job shadowing and decided I wanted to be a PA.”

Hermes met his wife, Pam, while attending PA school in Pennsylvania. While Tanner was drawn to orthopedics, Pam focused on neurology and stroke care. Today, she is a physician assistant for the stroke team at Essentia Health. Interestingly, Pam is originally from Hurley, Wisconsin.

The two graduated from PA school in 2010, and moved to Seattle, where they both found jobs in their field. They were married in 2012.

Pamela Hermes, PA-C, Neurology. Photo by Essentia Health

Seattle

Initially, the couple loved Seattle. “We spent every weekend in the mountains, hiking and backpacking,” Hermes said. “I volunteered with the Seattle Mountaineers and even got into rock climbing.”

After some time, however, the long commutes and a welcome new addition had the Hermes’ thinking of a change. “After we had our first child, Hazel, it became more important for us to be near family,” Hermes said.

“And the Pacific Northwest is so beautiful, but you feel like you’re really far away,” he added. “For instance, it took a 2-hour car ride for us to go skiing in Seattle.”

The couple knew they wanted to be somewhere in the Midwest. So, they started researching places to live. Initially, Lacrosse, Wisconsin, and Marquette, Michigan were top contenders. But then they discovered Duluth.

Duluth via Outside Magazine

2014 "Vote Duluth" campaign, led by Destination Duluth. Creative by Beau Walsh.

In May 2014, Duluth was one of 64 cities selected to participate in Outside Magazine's contest for "Best Town In America."  Destination Duluth designed and implemented the #VoteDuluth social media campaign and website, in a campaign led by then-mayor Don Ness. Competing through six rounds of bracket-style face-offs, Duluth handily won each round and was crowned in the Outside Magazine August 2014 cover story.

After reading the article, Hermes recalls turning to his wife, tossing the question, "What about Duluth?"

“I still remember the article. I thought, ‘This place sounds really cool. It has everything we like to do – hiking trails, mountain biking, skiing. And Pam had remembered trips she had taken to Duluth as a kid.

“I started looking for job opportunities for orthopedic PAs, and believe it or not, there were two job opportunities in Duluth. One for an orthopedic PA, and one for a stroke PA. It couldn’t have been more perfect.

“We came to Duluth, interviewed, and discovered it was the perfect fit for our family. I was hired at Orthopedic Associates. I help patients with joint replacements, trauma, and sports-related injuries with surgeon Dr. Sam Harms. And, Pam was hired as a PA in stroke care at Essentia. We moved here in 2017.

Photography

Aurora captured by Tanner Hermes.

Hermes is also a talented photographer. He bought his first camera in 2011, but at that time, he didn’t have the drive to delve into the hobby truly.

During the pandemic, however, Hermes decided to get back into photography. And Duluth and the surrounding area have provided the perfect muse. His niche includes vibrant landscapes, northern lights, and captivating shots of the night sky and Milky Way.

Hermes night sky photo of the Milky Way on the North Shore.

His images, rich in dramatic color and light, have captured much attention. Destination Duluth’s Jerry Thoreson contacted Hermes in 2022, and Hermes has since become a well-respected photographer on DD’s platforms. He received a certificate recognizing 260,000 impressions of his 12 photos featured on DD Facebook and Instagram in 2022.

Hermes shared several of his favorite spots to photograph. “I love Stoney Point for waves, Lake Superior images, and surfing,” he said. “And I like the Isabella area for shooting the Milky Way and northern lights. Brighton Beach is another favorite. I feel like there are so many little pockets of interesting rock formations and compositions all along the North Shore.”

A recent highlight shared on the Destination Duluth platforms was Hermes’ 2023 Labor Day photos. They included Hermes, friends, and family enjoying a day of paddleboarding on Lake Superior. A fun addition was the floating charcuterie board!

Hermes family and friends paddle board on Lake Superior on Labor Day 2023. Photo submitted.

Hermes is entirely self-taught, sharing what he has learned through watching YouTube videos and other online tutorials and reading photography blogs.

When it comes to equipment, Hermes has upgraded since his early days. “I finally bought my dream camera in 2021,” he explained. “It is a Sony A7 III with a full-frame sensor. This is important for night sky photography. It allows you to gather more light and shows less ‘noise,’ or grain, in the images.”

He also utilizes the app PhotoPills, which helps photographers plan their photo shoots by calculating the exact timing of the sun and moon.

While he doesn’t currently promote sales of his images, they are available for purchase by request. As Hermes has continued to improve his craft, he has also been asked to take family photos for friends.

Looking Ahead

Hermes has been richly blessed with a rewarding career, a healthy family, and an absolute passion for his adopted hometown. Looking ahead to the future, he shared that he’d like to continue to improve his photography.

“It’s great to know you can be entirely self-taught and learn to do anything you’re passionate about,” he said. “I feel like photography is a hobby that can continue to grow for me. Improving my website is the next step in my evolution.

“But for now, I have really enjoyed contributing to Destination Duluth. I feel like I’m doing my part to help share the beauty of Duluth.”

To view his images, please visit tannerhermesphotography.com.

[1] Why Duluth is the Best Town in America (outsideonline.com)

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Native Duluthian Returns Home at Last

Charles Howard Smith

Destination Duluth's
Photographer Profile Series
Charlie Smith

After being born in Duluth in 1983 and residing here until 1989, the twists and turns of life brought Charlie Smith elsewhere.

After his parents’ divorce, Smith, along with his mother, Linda Popkes, and his brother, Tim, moved to South Dakota – the home of the boys’ new stepfather. Later, college, followed by a few career hops, kept him away as he matured into adulthood.

But his beloved hometown was never far from his mind - and heart. “Growing up, Duluth was always our vacation spot,” he said. “Duluth has always been a staple in my life. Going over Thompson Hill was, and still is, a thrill for me.”

Smith finally moved back home to Duluth in 2014, which brought him a sense of peace, and the comforting feeling of home. Since then, he has experienced success in all areas of his life. Today, he is a photographer (many of his compelling images have been featured with Destination Duluth); a Duluth Transit Authority (DTA) bus driver; a homeowner; a dog dad; a volunteer; and got engaged at Glensheen and married at Gooseberry Falls State Park.

Charlie proposed to his girlfriend Britney at the Glensheen 2021 Fall Photomeet. –Photo by Glen Blaszkiewicz

Smith recently opened up about his journey and shared his story with Destination Duluth.

Returning Home

After graduating from high school in Estelline, South Dakota, Smith attended a year of college at South Dakota State University. As a young man, he struggled to find his niche.

“I bounced around on the eastern side of South Dakota until I turned 30. There was just no stability,” he said. “I was living out my 20s, trying to figure out my life. During that time, I changed oil, was a bouncer at a bar, sold cars, changed tires, and built kitchen cabinets.”

He continued, “While selling cars, I landed a job at a wholesale driving company where I’d be driving a semi-truck, and I came to Duluth for a vacation. But, when I returned to South Dakota, I found out the job had been given to someone else, and my roommate was selling his house and moving. So, I was basically going to be both homeless and unemployed.”

After doing some soul-searching, Smith said a bittersweet goodbye to his family in South Dakota and returned to Duluth in 2014. Thankfully, his father, Dale Smith, still resided in Duluth, along with much of Smith’s extended family, providing Smith with a built-in support system in his old hometown.

Photography

After settling in, Smith found work building cabinets and later worked as a certified nursing assistant (CNA). He soon discovered, however, that his real passion was in the world of photography.

“The invention of the smartphone with a camera was really what sparked photography for me,” he shared. “I started out with a Blackberry Flip Pearl, and seemed to have an artistic eye, along with an eye for lighting and angles. I could make a simple cell phone shot unique.”

A wall of sea smoke made for a dramatic arrival of Edgar B. Speer to Two Harbors. –Photo by Charles Howard Smith Photography

Smith’s photography, along with his small business (professionally, he uses the name Charles Howard Smith Photography, in homage to his heritage; Smith was named after his grandfathers, who were both WWII veterans), continued to improve and grow.

Today, Smith’s specialties include images of landscapes, wildlife, and the northern lights. He often travels up the North Shore, chasing down the perfect shot; often requiring a rope and cleats to reach his destination.

Aurora display from just outside Charlie's home in Morgan Park. –Photo by Charles Howard Smith Photography

While Smith is happy to share the details of his current equipment (he has upgraded to a Nikon D850, and a Nikon D500 for wildlife shots), he is reluctant to give out his secret locations. “I would just say that the Arrowhead Region of northern Minnesota is good, and Boulder Lake Reservoir is a good place to start,” Smith said with a chuckle.

Smith sells his photography through the website SmugMug, which is linked from his Facebook page. Recently, he sold over 100 calendars, which feature Smith’s images of a moose in a pond, the northern lights, Bentleyville, and other unique photos.

His photography has been a great addition to Destination Duluth’s online presence, too; he has had over 100 images featured on their social media platforms since 2016, with over six million views of his photos.

Lake Superior Sunrise in Tofte, MN. –Photo by Charles Howard Smith Photography.

Advice

When it comes to advice for other budding photographers, Smith likes to keep it simple.

“The best camera is the one you have on you,” he shared. “You don’t need all the fancy equipment to get started. Use a cell phone. Just capture the moment.”

Career and Family

In addition to his photography, Smith works full-time as a bus driver for the DTA. His routes take him all over Duluth; from downtown to UMD; from the mall area to Lakeside and Gary.

Another special interest is his volunteer work. Smith volunteers time around the holidays to dress up as Santa Claus for the residents at Viewcrest Health Center. “I just love doing it,” he said. “There are some folks there with dementia or Alzheimer’s, and you can just see the memories flooding back.”

Charlie loves playing Santa. –Photo by Glen Blaszkiewicz

Smith and his wife Brittney own a home in Duluth’s Morgan Park neighborhood, which they share with their three dogs. Eventually, the couple hopes to purchase some acreage near Two Harbors and add children to their family.

The Draw of Duluth

After several years away from his hometown, Smith is glad to be home. “The Lake, along with the beautiful views, was my biggest appeal to coming home,” he said. “It just becomes part of your soul; who you are. I love how you can drive while staying in Duluth, and see trees, waterfalls, wildlife, and hike on the Superior Hiking Trail. And, the people here are so nice and really embrace winter.”

The South Pier Lighthouse is surrounded by Lake Superior "Sea Smoke" –Photo by Charles Howard Smith Photography

Speaking of people, Smith also noted his gratitude for the good friends he’s met through the pursuit of photography in Duluth, including Randy Wolf and Jeff Doty.

Ultimately, Smith hopes to continue honing his photography and growing his business. He shared, “My goals and dreams are to build my photography enough so I can retire early and go exploring.”

To see more of Charlie's photographs and order prints, go to his Smugmug site or Charles Howard Smith Photography on Facebook 

 

 

 

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Duluth Public Library Is Your Passport to the World

Duluth Public Library Is Your Passport to the World

I have no shame in my game. I’m proud to admit that I am a true-blue, bona fide bookworm. And, despite all the amazing digital offerings available today, I personally kick it old-school, preferring to curl up with an actual book.

Whether you’re a fellow book lover like me or prefer more modern selections like audio books and eBooks, the Duluth Public Library (DPL) has your back. In fact, today’s library has enough options to keep you educated, informed, and entertained in perpetuity.

Best of all? This amazing resource is open and welcoming to everyone. The library remains one of the few places where money isn’t a barrier to entry. Today we’ll explore how the DPL can serve as your free passport to the world.

Material

The DPL offers an abundance of materials for patrons of all ages, including CDs, DVDs, digital services such as audio and eBooks, and streaming services. The library also lends out toys, puzzles, Wi-Fi hotspots, and hosts a wealth of programs and activities. Patrons can even check out an electric meter device, called a Kill-O-Watt, to measure their electricity consumption.

The library also serves as a “partnership center,” where various community partners schedule time to meet with the public. This includes MNSure advocates/navigators, tax professionals, and more.

And the library does much to support local youth. For instance, the DPL coordinates a community-wide school readiness initiative called Every Child Ready Duluth. Head Start screenings are available for young children. Another major DPL project is a program that provides a virtual library card to every student in the Duluth School District, called a Port Card.

An ISD709 student types in their student ID number to check items out on their Port Card. Photo submitted.

These services are free of charge to all patrons. Tourists and visitors can even get in on the action!

Relevance

In our modern times, some may question the relevance of public libraries. Library Manager, Carla Powers, shared her thoughts on the subject.

Carla Powers is the Duluth Public Library Manager. Photo submitted.

“There are many reasons why libraries in general, and our library in particular, are relevant today,” Powers shared. “I will touch on three of them: access, connection, and sustainability.

“First, access. In the digital world, libraries are a lifeline for people who do not have a computer or internet in their homes. Despite all the work that's been done to close the digital divide, it still exists.

“People come to the public library to access free Wi-Fi or check out a Wi-Fi hotspot if they have their own device. If they don't have their own device, they can use a desktop computer or laptop in the library.

A library visitor browses local historical records in the Main Library's North Shore Room. Photo submitted.

“Importantly, libraries also offer help and instruction. Having access to the digital world is important, but it doesn't do much good if people don't know how to accomplish what they need to do online.

“Second, connection. Libraries are among the few places where everyone in the community is welcome. You don't need to have a membership, and you don't need to pay money or buy something to get in.

“A lot of people who come to the library are here to borrow a book, use a computer, or do research. But we also have teenagers who come in to meet up with their friends, a couple who makes a library visit part of their date night each week, and folks who just need a warm place to hang out.

Young enthusiasts explore the world of everyday plant remedies in the Plant Magic program at the Main Library. Photo submitted.

“Third, sustainability. The entire community shares what's in the library collection, which means the items get reused over and over again. Even though digital offerings are a bigger part of what libraries check out these days, books and other physical items are still in high demand. I don't foresee this changing anytime soon. A report released last fall by the American Library Association found that Gen Z and Millennials have a preference for print books.

“Along with books, DPL offers DVDs, music and audiobooks on CD, puzzles, toys, Wi-Fi hotspots, and electric meters for checkout,” she added. “And, every time someone borrows and returns one of these items, it saves them from having to buy (and later discard) it.”

Stats

As Powers noted, the DPL remains a highly utilized community resource. For instance, in 2023, more than 762,000 books and other materials were checked out from the Duluth Public Library.

That same year, there were over 300,000 library visits across the three library locations (Downtown, West Duluth, and Mount Royal). Additionally, nearly 130,000 digital items were downloaded, 30,000 uses of the DPL’s public computers, and over 37,000 people were attending DPL programs. The DPL’s total number of cardholders hovers around 51,000.

Tourists

If you’re just in Duluth for a visit, you’re in luck: the DPL welcomes you, too.

“If area visitors have a library card from within the state of Minnesota, we can get it registered at DPL,” Powers explained. “This would give visitors access to many items that may be of interest while on vacation: guidebooks, toys and learning kits for kids, games, puzzles, and of course, books, magazines, DVDs, and audiobooks.

“For visitors who do not hold a Minnesota library card, there are still many resources to utilize for all ages and interests,” she added. “They can consult with a reference librarian on local attractions or get the inside scoop on favorite spots, from restaurants to local trails. They can browse current and historical local newspapers, research significant buildings and sites, use the library's free Wi-Fi, or take a guest pass to use the library's computer and printing services.

“And, for groups with children, visitors are welcome to drop in for a story time at any of our library locations. Families can attend outdoor story time during the summer and discover one of our local parks!”

In the summer, the Every Child Ready Duluth initiative teams up with Duluth Parks and Recreation to host a series of story and play times with each session held at a different neighborhood park in the city. Photo submitted.

Educate, Inspire, Entertain

Well, there you have it. Whether you’re looking to learn, be entertained, or find inspiration, the DPL is simply the place to be.

The library is a place where everyone is welcome. Consider checking out this amazing resource today.

For more information, please visit duluthlibrary.org.

___________________________________________________________________

Andrea Busche is a Duluth + regional freelance writer and small business owner. She is credited with over 1,000 bylines in local print and digital publications, and has been a frequent contributor to Destination Duluth since 2017.

 

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Kevin Seime Is Scholastica’s Tech Theatre Wizard

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PROFILE SERIES - KEVIN SEIME

Kevin Seime is The College of St. Scholastica’s Theatre Scenic, Lighting, and Sound Designer. Photo submitted.

For over thirty years, Kevin Seime has been The College of St. Scholastica’s Theatre Scenic, Lighting, and Sound Designer, pulling out all the bells and whistles from his technical theater bag of tricks season after season.

Tucked away in the theater behind Tower Hall at St. Scholastica (CSS), Seime is used to working behind the scenes with small crews of students, limited budgets, and the special requirements of a black box theater space.

“Our theater is a ‘found’ space that once was a gymnasium where the nuns and students played basketball,” said Seime. “Now we reconfigure both the theatrical space and the audience space for each show.”

Over the decades, Seime has helped every director with whom he has worked see their concepts come to life, giving their casts colorful theatrical worlds in which they could “play.”

Duluth Playhouse presents “Vanya Sonya Masha and Spike”, Director Julie Ahasay, Set Design by Kevin Seime. Photo submitted.

Finding Theatre

“I was a jock in high school and never planned to have anything to do with theater. I remember seeing a musical at my school and thinking it was really dumb,” he said with a chuckle.

After starting his college years at the University of Wisconsin in LaCrosse, he saw a production of “The Crucible” and took an Intro to Theater class, and was hooked.

He started working as a stage manager and then designing for shows.”I found it was something I really liked. I was good at drawing and that led to scene design. This was back before there were computer programs and everything had to be done by hand.”

Duluth Playhouse presents “Other Desert Cities”, Director Julie Ahasay, Set Design by Kevin Seime. Photo submitted.

He transferred to the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis where he earned his   Bachelor of Arts in Theatre (Stage Management and Set Design). For his graduate work, he went to the University of Idaho, graduating with a Master of Fine Arts (Theatre Set Design).

Wanting to move back to Minnesota for his family, he applied for a theatre position at CSS. “I have stayed for thirty years because I love the small department and collaborating with each other. Here I have had room to experiment as a set designer and to integrate sound and lighting with my designs.”

In addition to being St. Scholastica’s “one-man technical band,” he has also worked his magic with several other area arts organizations over the years.

Seime has freelanced with the Duluth Playhouse designing sets for a number of shows, including “The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” “Grease,” “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” “Cats,” “My Fair Lady,” “The 39 Steps,” “Amadeus,” “Other Desert Cities,” and “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.“

The set of "Cats" by Duluth Playhouse was designed by Kevin Seime.

He guest designed “The Woman in Black” for Renegade Theater and worked with UMD’s Minnesota’s Repertory Theater for three years. He also did a few set designs for Lake Superior College and helped them to build a permanent thrust stage. Across the bridge, Seime worked with Superior High School on sets for their summer theater program.

Early on in his theatrical journey, he honed his technical theater skills with the Texas Shakespeare Festival, the Utah Shakespeare Festival, and the Idaho Repertory Theater.

He has taught a variety of classes at CSS including Stagecraft, Intro to Design, and practicums.”I really am teaching with every show we do, working with student crews, many who don’t come in with many skills,” he said.

Seime added “I have really enjoyed working with students who have never done theater or who have done little technical theater, to feel a sense of accomplishment, and then can say with some pride, ‘I built that’ or ‘I painted that.’”

“Theater is a place where you are allowed to make mistakes and a place to learn from those mistakes,” he said. “I am proud that the students I work with can also see and understand how much work it is. I love to watch them grow. It is hard, though, to see them move on, most of them in their senior year when they are too busy to do theatre.”

Kevin said, “I know that for myself, theater has opened my eyes to the human experience and has taught me compassion for other people.”

He noted one of his favorite productions at CSS was “Journey’s End,” set in WWI in a bunker. For this show , he had to rig the roof to collapse at the end. He has loved working on other shows with “tricks” and special effects to rig such as in “Dracula,” “Little Shop of Horrors" and “Blithe Spirit.”

CSS Theatre presents “Blithe Spirit”, Director Merry Vaughan, Set and Sound by Kevin Seime. Photo submitted.

“I was also very proud of our ‘Diary Anne Frank’ set, recreating the attic and having the audience feel that they were living in that attic too,” he said.

Seime enjoys getting out of the dark of the theatre and going outdoors to bike and hike. “I get so wrapped up in my job, and so it is good to get outside. This is an amazing area to live, another big reason I have stayed,” he noted.

“Rabbit Hole”

St, Scholastica’s current production is “Rabbit Hole,” written by David Lindsay-Abaire and winner of the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The play tells the story of Becca and Howie Corbett, a couple trapped in grief, loss, and darkness after the accidental death of their young son.

CSS Theatre presents “Rabbit Hole”, Director Sharon Dixon Obst, Set, Lights, and Sound Design by Kevin Seime. Photo submitted.

The show’s director, Sharon Dixon Obst, said, “I chose ‘Rabbit Hole’ because I wanted to do a drama that would challenge the students. This show calls for vulnerability from the actors and touches on grief, something we all experience.”

“I asked for a lot from Kevin. I needed a full kitchen, a child's bedroom, a living room, and a dining room--all in our little theatre. And he delivered. It has turned out beautifully. The color scheme reflects the true emotions of grief, and the photos on the set are of people who I have lost or who I have nearly lost,” she said.

Rabbit Hole” Information

Remaining Performances: February, 29, March 1, 2 AT 7:30 PM
and March 3 AT 2 PM
ASL interpreted performance on February 29

For tickets, call 218-723-5900 or go to: https://thecollegeofstscholastica.ticketspice.com/rabbit-hole

Please note: The CSS Theatre is now cashless—card payments only.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Amber Nichols Considers Herself an “All-Around Photographer”

DD SATURDAY EVENING POST - PHOTOGRAPHER PROFILE - Amber Nichols, owner of Amber's Impressions Photography.

When it comes to photography, Esko resident Amber Nichols can just about do it all. “I like to say that I’m an ‘all-around photographer,’” she noted. “While I love to shoot wildlife, landscapes, and night photography, I have done everything from event photography to portraits and more.”

Today, she is probably most well-known for her images of Grandma’s Marathon and the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon; several of which have won some pretty cool awards.

Impressively, other than a few community education courses, she is mostly self-taught.

She is also familiar to the Destination Duluth audience. In 2023, she was recognized with one of DD’s Top Photographer awards, after attracting over a million views. “It was one of my images of the northern lights that put me over a million,” she shared.

March 23, 2023 Aurora Borialis showed up in a spectacular way. This was taken facing south at the Veterns Overlook outside of Duluth. Photo by Amber Nichols.

Unique Upbringing

Nichols and her siblings were raised in a rural setting between Palisade and Aitkin, Minnesota. Her childhood domicile was rustic, to say the least.

“We had no electricity, and no running water,” she explained. “We used a wood stove to heat the house, and we had an outhouse. It was a very unique childhood.”

After her parents’ divorce, Nichols moved with her mom to Danbury, Wisconsin, and she  graduated from Webster High School. As a teen, she worked as a cashier at a gas station, had an office job at the Burnett County Sentinel, and also served on the Danbury, Wisconsin volunteer fire department, alongside her stepfather.

She was two weeks away from entering college (where she planned to pursue equine science), when she learned she was pregnant. “I was supposed to go to college, but I got pregnant, so life took a drastic turn,” she explained. But everything ultimately worked out for the best.

When she was offered a temp job through Kelly Services at Nels Nelson & Sons, she and her two young daughters, Serena (now 26) and Marcy (23), moved to Cloquet. Nichols later had a 3rd child, a son, Chase (20).

Amber with her daughters Serena and Marcy and son Chase. Photo submitted.

To make ends meet, she worked a few temporary jobs - through places like Kelly Services and Manpower - before landing a full-time job as the office manager at High-Mark Construction. While at High-Mark, she returned to college full-time, where she earned an associate’s degree in business management and an associate’s degree in fine art, from Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College (FDLTCC), and two bachelor’s degrees – in accounting and business management – from Bemidji State University. She is currently the general manager at Lake Superior Art Glass.

As a single mother to three kids, Nichols has had to work incredibly hard to achieve her professional and educational dreams. “I have always taken on more than I probably should,” she said with a grin. “But that’s how I was raised.”

Photography

Nichols became interested in photography at an early age, when she wanted to capture memories from family vacations. She bought her first camera, a basic Kodak, as a teen - with money earned from her cashiering job.

“I have been interested in photography since I was a teenager,” she said. “Over the years, it has become a passion. I had always wanted to turn into a business, but wasn't sure how or when to do it.

“About ten years ago, I became a member of Frozen Photographers, a group on Facebook. It has changed my whole perspective on photography. What was just a hobby has now become my new career.  It turns out that I was just waiting for the right moment.” She has now shifted her focus to photographing events, races, and photojournalism.

Winter in Duluth with sunrise and sea smoke rising from the bay. Taken behind the DECC on a cold winter morning. Photo by Amber Nichols.

“In the beginning, I was mainly focused on landscape/wildlife photography,” Nichols noted. “I love being out in nature and surrounded by the beauty that it provides. After I joined the Facebook group, I found a new aspect of photography called Light Painting.  I fell in love with it instantly!  People can check out my night photography for examples.”

Equipment and Locations

Nichols has come a long way from that early Kodak. Today, she uses a Canon EOS R6, a mirrorless camera that is good for fast action and low light, but is also a good overall camera. For lenses, she has several Sigmas, a Canon, and a Tamron.

Her favorite place to shoot wildlife is the Sax-Zim Bog. In fact, she offers guided photography tours where she brings clients to the Bog. She also has several favorite locations in Duluth, Superior, and Cloquet.

Great Grey Owl taken at Sax Zim Bog. He was content to sit there and have his photo taken for about 20 minutes before he left his perch. Photo by Amber Nichols

Nichols loves everything Duluth and the surrounding area have to offer. “Duluth has a big city feel with a small-town atmosphere,” she noted. “And I just love the amount of nature that is right here at our fingertips.”

Accolades

Nichols’ photos have been published in many places, including the Burnett County Sentinel newspaper, and the Pine Knot newspaper in Cloquet, where she also maintains a freelance gig alongside her full-time job.

2023 Snow storm photojournalism. This is at River Ranch Farm in Esko, and won 1st place from the Minnesota Newspaper Association 2023 Feature Photo. Photo by Amber Nichols

Her photos have been used for the cover of the Duluth Community Education catalog, and have been published in Lake Superior Magazine. Her images have been displayed inside the Great Lakes Aquarium, Whole Foods Co-op, VIP Pizza, and she has been the featured photographer at Split Rock Lighthouse.

She is now one of the official photographers for Grandma’s Marathon, and also shoots for Marathon Photo. She’s taken snaps for the NorthShore Inline Marathon, the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, and Catalyst Content Festival.

2023 John Beargrease Dog Sled Marathon Start. The photo won 1st Place from the Minnesota Newspaper Association 2023 Sports Photo. Photo by Amber Nichols

Additionally, as noted, Nichols has won several awards for her images, including:

  • 2023- Minnesota Newspaper Association - 1st place sports photo and 1st place featured photo
  • 2023 - Destination Duluth Top Photographer - 1.02 million views
  • 2020 - Minnesota Newspaper Association - 2nd place sports photo
  • 2020 - PSA - Best of the day
  • 2020 - N4C - 3rd place best of the best

She also maintains a variety of photography-related affiliations. She is the current treasurer (and former vice-president and president) of the Duluth-Superior Camera Club. She has served on a non-profit board for The Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Foundation, and since 2015, she has been the administrator for the Frozen Photographers Facebook page.

Personal

In her spare time, Nichols enjoys spending time with her three kids and her mixed-breed dog, Winchester, who is quite the charmer. “He’s the unofficial greeting dog for the cruise ships when they dock in Duluth,” she said with a chuckle. “Everyone loves him. Even the captain came off the ship to say hi to him.”

Amber and her dog Winchester enjoy the holiday season. Photo submitted.

She also enjoys reading and traveling. Two of her bucket list locations (to visit and take photos) are Ireland and Iceland.

Although she does make some income through her photography, eventually, she’d like to make it her main, full-time gig. “I’d love to take photos as my main source of income,” she said. “It would be great to have the freedom to travel and take photos and do what I want, when I want.”

Advice

As a talented photographer who has come a very long way, Nichols graciously offered some helpful advice for new shutterbugs. “Whether it’s as a hobby or a business, there’s always something new to learn about photography,” she noted.

“Don’t get discouraged. I would recommend doing stuff you love; it can really feed your soul. And, have fun with it. Art is meant to be shared and enjoyed.”

To learn more, or to purchase one of Amber’s photos, please visit ambersimpressions.com.

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Andrea Busche is a Duluth + regional freelance writer and small business owner. She is credited with over 1,000 bylines in local print and digital publications, and has been a frequent contributor to Destination Duluth since 2017.

 

 

 

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