Popular Duluth, MN Television Personality Announces He Is Leaving

Local television and radio are considered very personal media because they are often enjoyed in the comfort of one's own home, or in the case of radio, while driving in one's vehicle, making them intimate experiences.

Plus, the local personalities we watch and hear are a part of the community, and we often get to know them personally, which adds to the connection. That's why it's always disappointing when a popular personality leaves the area.

Unfortunately, that is what is happening with a broadcaster in Duluth an although he's leaving for a fantastic, and well-deserved opportunity, his departure will make television in the market a little less fun.

Kenny Johnson Announces He Is Leaving WDIO-TV In Duluth

On Wednesday, May 21, WDIO-TV shared on its Facebook page that the popular and energetic Kenny Johnson would be leaving the station on June 13.

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A Ham Lake, Minnesota native, Johnson joined the WDIO team in June of 2021, after graduating from St. Cloud State, where he spent all four years working at the award-winning student-run television station UTVS. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications and a minor in Theatre.

Since joining WDIO, he has provided a lot of on-air fun for viewers, especially as a part of The Lift, a local lifestyle program that airs weekday afternoons on the station.

However, as Johnson announced, he will be leaving the area to pursue a new lifestyle reporter/host position in Colorado Springs. It will be his first time living outside of Minnesota, and while he's excited for his new adventure in Colorado, he's grateful for his experience at WDIO.

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"With a mix of high aspirations and a little bit of luck, I’ve gotten so many opportunities that would normally be impossible to do in a small market," Johnson said in his online statement. "From helicopter rides, to cheerleading with the Minnesota Vikings, doing live shots for the Twin Cities, interviewing a couple of celebrities, and of course… reporting on Broadway in NYC!"

Kenny Johnson is known to love pickle chips, so the station made sure to invite the community to get him a bag and say goodbye and good luck before his last day.

Sold! Historic Duluth Stone Carriage House Was Priced At $825,500

Duluth is filled with historic properties and another chance to own one recently arrived. Anyone in Duluth who talked about "that pretty stone cottage" was likely referring to the cottage that sits at 1600 Vermilion Road.

Renowned architect Fredrick German designed this historic property and it was once a carriage house for the neighboring mansion, which was built for lumber baron John Millen in 1912. Although it has been remodeled or refurbished for today's lifestyle, it retains much of its original character.

The iconic landmark features a majestic stone arch that welcomes you and all guests. Once inside the 1,900-square-foot cottage, there's a surprisingly open-concept floor plan on the main level. They've truly maximized this space, which features a primary suite, an ensuite, and even a unique lofted level.

The craftsmanship is from a bygone era, with stone walls so thick, you hear no sounds from the outside. While the cottage features a smaller footprint, it's certainly a case of quality of quantity and the new owner will find it a perfect fit.

It originally went on the market in July 2023. It was removed from the market in August 2023, but on March 5, 2024, it was once again listed for sale for $825,500, after owners added an additional lot.

On May 14, 2024, the property was officially sold, and the new owners got a bit of a deal.

Take another look through the historic property, which features 2 bedrooms and 3 baths and you'll also see the final sale price with the final photo.

Gallery Credit: David Drew

9 Awesome Shots Of Ships Battling Extreme Duluth Weather

Some of the coolest videos you see here in the Northland come from the Aerial Lift Bridge. These massive ships come in through all sorts of weather conditions. Here are some of the best shots in recent years.

Gallery Credit: Ken Hayes