News

The Circle of Friends at the Depot keeps expanding. Nearly 100 individuals or groups adding greatly to the quality of life in Duluth have been recognized and we've only just begun.

Each year when the Circle of Friends committee for the selection of the annual Arts and Cultural Awards winners gather, our challenge is not finding qualified individuals or organizations to be recognized, but narrowing the choice to one per year at the annual Circle of Friends Celebration.

Duluth is truly blessed with so many people who are willing to give of their time, talent and resources to ensure that the history of our area is not forgotten and that the cultural needs of the community are never neglected.

It is remarkable that Duluth has a world class symphony orchestra, ballet, choral group, historical society, art institute and likely the finest and most complete train museum in the country, not to mention the Duluth Playhouse which stages theatrical productions which could rival anything on Broadway.

The biggest problem the committee faces each year is how to settle on the finalists in each category. While the committee thrives on collaboration with our Depot family, the Friends of the Depot and anyone willing to offer-up the name of someone or some group to be recognized, it is not an easy task.

At the upcoming visioning session for the Depot Foundation we will consider expanding the reach of our Circle of Friends to include individuals within the area served by the Depot rather than just those who are affiliated with the tenants of the Depot.

If Duluth is to retain the rich environment of arts, history and culture, younger community activists must step forward to replace those who are retiring.