Jay Gabler

Duluth authors Cassandra Medcalf and Gia Stevens have new books on the shelves, as does hockey romance specialist (and spouse of a former Bulldog) Lexi LaFleur Brown.

New board president Don Ness is seeking to return the organization to compliance after a financial filing lapse. Despite some uncertainty, board members say the festival's future is not in jeopardy.

The popular beer festival will continue, but in another location yet to be announced.

While Art in Bayfront Park is gone, Flock ArtFest aims to bring a new energy to the harborside venue. But first, the Park Point Art Fair returns for a 54th year.

Organizers say Duluth's fireworks will be bigger than ever, but they will be far from the only explosions lighting local skies on America's 250th birthday.

The performers are presenting July concerts in both Duluth and Superior. The programs will include both classic touchstones and new music, with young musicians included as always.

Ken Buehler, who has led the North Shore Scenic Railroad and Lake Superior Railroad Museum since 2002, is no longer with the associated nonprofits. A search for his replacement is underway.

I'm grateful for over four years of memorable experiences as the News Tribune's arts and entertainment reporter.

Founder Doris Ressl still runs the annual free festival of outdoor dance, which has inspired a similar series in Minneapolis.

Attendees will see stunt performers; an elite jet performance team with a 'boss' from Esko; and a handful of 'heavies.'