The Number: $62,387
That's the annual cost of living for two working parents and two kids in Carlton County, according to an ongoing alphabetical DEED study of the economies of Minnesota's counties. The good news there is the state's cost of living for a working family of four is much higher at $81,504, making Carlton County an affordable choice for families (you're welcome for the new slogan idea). Then again, the average annual income in the county, $41,444, is nearly $13,000 less than the statewide average, and unemployment rates remain a few points higher. Win some, lose some.
The Word: "As a college professor, I know that my students already have easy access to beer and fast food; what most of them actually need is a better diet, more exercise and more sleep. A small cafe or deli serving healthy food would be better suited to the neighborhood," writes Penny Schwarze in a letter to the city opposing the Golden Bulldog restaurant planned at 318 N. 18th Ave. E. that is looking to get through some regulatory hurdles at this week's planning commission meeting.
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The Lead: I launched an email newsletter today - DNT Business - and would be so grateful if you'd subscribe. Sent just once a week, on Monday mornings, it's another way of staying in the loop with all things business in the Northland. Head to duluthnewstribune.com/dnt-business-newsletter to help put an end to my shameless self-promotion.
The Happy Hour: Oakhold Farmhouse Brewery is edging closer to opening, I'm told, with the Midway Township brewery-in-a-barn potentially releasing its ales this fall. Caleb Levar has left his post at Fair State Brewing Cooperative to focus on the mixed-fermentation brewhouse full-time with business partner and fellow brewer Levi Loesch, so now it's just a matter of cheering on the yeast.
The Meeting: West Duluth Business Club
This month's lunchtime gathering in support of West Duluth commerce will feature Angie Miller of Community Action Duluth. Get a seat at the table starting at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at Mr. D's, 5622 Grand Ave.
The Memo is a weekly roundup of things to know, ya know? Send business news of all kinds to biz@duluthnews.com and give newsletter-promoting business reporter Brooks Johnson a call every now and then at (218) 723-5329.
