Good morning, Duluth.

Thousands of USW steelworkers at six northeastern Minnesota taconite plants continue working under expired agreements while negotiations with Cleveland-Cliffs and U.S. Steel, covering issues like wages + healthcare, are extended for 30 days; current contracts remain effective through Oct. 1.

Duluth Public Schools launched a new alternative education center on West First Street that will serve students of all ages and support programs like special education and early childhood.

The building also begins hosting adult education classes next Tuesday (Sept. 8).

Duluth officials are upgrading the 2.5-mile Lakewalk with a $13.3 million project that will widen trails (to 12 feet), add lighting and signage, and strengthen shoreline safety from Endion Station to 27th Avenue East.

Work, which began in August, pauses for winter and will resume in spring.

Barkers Island Beach is closed because of blue-green algae, Superior officials said (signage is posted) to warn swimmers and pet owners as low winds allow algae to concentrate along the shore and conditions may persist through September.