Good morning, Duluth.

Essentia Health has committed $500,000 to support Union Gospel Mission’s new Mission Engagement Center in downtown; the center will offer affordable housing and coordinated social, food, and healthcare services across from the St. Louis County Government Services Center, with construction starting spring 2027 and opening in 2028.

After months of discussion, locals asked Google questions at an open house about the proposed Hermantown data center campus; the company said its plan will use sound-approved technology + water-efficient cooling, and an environmental review will come before the city council this fall.

A & Dubs drive-in reopened on June 12 with new owners Ryan Spears & Michael Koralia determined to revive its classic menu while introducing updated options.

The first day's rush forced the restaurant to close at 5 p.m. due to supply shortages.

Minnesota will update K-12 social studies standards this fall following years of feedback from educators, parents and students.

The new approach, which adds Ethnic Studies and uses an inquiry-based method (supporters say it is engaging) and (critics find it divisive), may change classroom learning.

Researchers from University of Minnesota Duluth found invasive bloody red shrimp had established a self-sustaining population in Duluth-Superior Harbor as 2025 samples showed all life stages and spread across the Great Lakes — the DNR advises boaters to clean, drain, dry equipment to prevent further spread.

After trading Julius Randle and a draft pick earlier this week, the Timberwolves selected Duke guard Isaiah Evans with the No. 33 pick on Wednesday night.

Evans (6’6”), who averaged 11 points over two seasons at Duke, will join Minnesota as he begins his professional career.

Midnight Sun Midnight Run

5K — Midnight Sun Midnight Run — Check the race website for entry fees — Celebrate summer with a scenic run along Lake Superior in Duluth.

Rich Mattson & The Northstars Concert

8-11 p.m. — Cedar Lounge Earth Rider Brewery taproom — Tickets available on Eventbrite — An evening of diverse sounds from The Northstars, Miss Georgia Peach, and The Mud Puppies.

4th of July Island Lake Band on the Barge 2026

12-5 p.m. — Island Lake Reservoir Public Water Access — Free entry — Enjoy live music from Sydney Hansen and Jake Birdseye on the barge for a festive Fourth of July celebration.

In-Person Meetings for Adults Affected by Epilepsy

6-7 p.m. — Caribou Coffee — Free entry — Connect with peers and share experiences in managing epilepsy at a supportive group gathering.

Movies in the Park

8:30-11 p.m. — Leif Erikson Park — Free entry — Enjoy beloved films under the stars along the shores of Lake Superior.

Natural Watercolor Making Workshop

12:30-4:30 p.m. — Duluth Folk School — Registration includes all materials — Explore the art of creating natural watercolors from plants and minerals.

Legally Blonde The Musical

2-4:30 p.m. — NorShor Theatre — $30 – $60 — Experience the high-energy, award-winning musical that celebrates ambition and self-discovery with heart and humor.

AAD Shrine Circus 2026

6 p.m. — DECC Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience three rings of magic with acrobats, animals, and pre-show fun for the whole family.

William A. Irvin Museum Tour

10 AM - 5 PM — William A Irvin Museum — Tickets from $10 — Explore a historical freighter with guided tour experiences.

Co-op Crafts: Tie-Dye Totes

3-5 p.m. — Whole Foods Co-op Denfeld — Materials provided — Create your own unique tie-dye tote bag in a fun summer workshop.