Good morning, Duluth.

Mesabi Metallics has ordered $110 million in new mining equipment for its taconite plant near Nashwauk—its purchase includes 400 ton haul trucks from Komatsu through a local distributor, with the equipment expected to arrive in October as the project moves toward a first-quarter finish in 2026.

The One Big Beautiful Bill, signed on July 4th, changes tax rules by allowing taxpayers to deduct up to $25,000 in voluntary tip income and adjusts overtime deductions while ending gambling deductions in 2026.

Tax strategist Anna Dilley said the new limits are tied to income caps—$150,000 for singles and $300,000 for joint returns—and local taxpayers should review these changes.

WisDOT approved a $6.38 million plan to repair the Bong Bridge connecting Superior and Duluth, with repairs including concrete surface work, steel painting, resealing, and new street lighting on both sides—drivers will face one lane of traffic in each direction and some Minnesota ramp closures during construction. Work is set to begin Monday, July 21 and will continue through November.

A portion of Stebner Road in Hermantown will close temporarily for a utility installation project starting July 21 at 7:00 a.m.—local traffic will still access homes while drivers follow a detour via Hermantown Road, Lavaque Road and Haines Road until reopening on Friday, July 25.

After Second District Councilor Mike Mayou resigned, eight councilors approved a procedure yesterday to fill the vacant seat—candidates must apply by 4 p.m. on August 4, be interviewed on August 7 and again on August 11, and a coin flip will decide the winner if no candidate wins a majority.

Advocates from over 20 groups have joined forces to push for a repeal of the 1994 ban on new nuclear power plants, arguing that the moratorium puts reliable energy and state carbon-free goals at risk.

Lawmakers in the 2025 session advanced bills like House File 9 to lift the ban, though it remains in place—leaving future energy plans uncertain.

Chainsaw Maintenance Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Duluth Folk School — Registration includes all materials — Master essential chainsaw maintenance skills in this hands-on class.

Waitress Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — NorShor Theatre — $30 – $59 — Experience the heartwarming journey of a waitress and expert pie-maker seeking a fresh start and happiness.

Kraus-Anderson Bike Duluth Festival

All day — Spirit Mountain Bike Park and Trailhead — Cost varies — Celebrate Duluth’s world-class bike trails with thrilling races for all skill levels.

Taste of Greece Festival

11 AM – 5 PM — Marshall School — Family-friendly fun — Experience delicious Greek food, pastries, and lively dancing.

Taste of Greece Festival

11 AM – 4 PM — Marshall School — Free entry — Enjoy Greek food, pastries, music, and dancing at this family-friendly celebration.

Waterloo Bucks vs. Duluth Huskies

6:35–8:05 p.m. — Wade Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Catch the action as the Waterloo Bucks take on the Duluth Huskies in a thrilling baseball matchup.

Waitress

7:30-9 p.m. — NorShor Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a delightful live performance of 'Waitress' on stage in Duluth.

Waitress Musical Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — NorShor Theatre — Ticket required — Experience the heartwarming original musical 'Waitress' featuring music by Grammy winner Sara Bareilles.

Community Mural Project Kick-Off

Join local artist and activist Carla Hamilton for a community brainstorming session! Come share your ideas, stories and inspiration to help shape the design of a mural being painted on the fence of the Diver Morning Sky Hope & Healing Center to commemorate our partnership with Divine Konnections and to honor the Spirit Valley neighborhood.

Waitress Musical Performance

2-3:30 p.m. — NorShor Theatre — $51.00 - $64.00 — Enjoy a delightful musical experience while supporting a charitable cause.