Minnesota

Gordy’s Hi-Hat Opens For 60th Season

At 92, Gordy has no plans to retire.

After delaying for about three weeks, opening day for Gordy’s Hi-Hat in Cloquet has finally arrived. As COVID-19 continues to be a concern, Gordy’s is going back to their roots. Customers can now enjoy those good old fashion burgers, onion rings, and fries through car-hop service by pulling up to one of more than 20 spots. Servers will take orders…

Pandemic Forces Duluth News Tribune’s Parent Company To Make Cuts

DULUTH, Minn. — During a time when so many people are turning to television and newspapers for the latest on this historic pandemic, media companies are experiencing a drastic loss of advertising revenue from businesses facing their own uncertainties. And the Duluth News Tribune’s parent company – Forum Communications Co. out of Fargo, North Dakota — is one of those…

Live: Gov. Walz Extends Stay Home Order Until May 4

ST. PAUL, Minn. -To continue Minnesota’s success in slowing the spread of COVID-19 across the state, Governor Tim Walz today extended the Stay Home Order until May 4. “What we are doing is working, Minnesota,” said Governor Walz. “We are taking this seriously, and we are staying home. While Minnesota is showing lower rates of infections than our peers across the country,…

Walz to Announce Extension of Minnesota’s Stay-at-Home Order

(Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune via AP, Pool) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is preparing to announce an extension to his stay-at-home order, which is aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19. The governor told reporters Tuesday the extension would likely include some refinements, reflecting new data and modeling on how the outbreak is likely to develop but didn’t give…

St. Louis County to Provide Hotel Rooms for Those Without Safe Isolation Space

Hotel Rooms Will Be Available in Duluth, Hibbing, Virginia, and Ely

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Louis County Public Health along with AEOA and partners such as CHUM is working to make sure those without a safe place to shelter if they were to test positive for COVID-19 can self-isolate. Four hotels would be used at various locations throughout St. Louis County – one each in Duluth, Hibbing, Virginia, and Ely. According…

St. Louis Co. Jumps to 28 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases, 1,154 Total Cases in Minnesota, Includes 632 Recoveries

The total number of cases includes 632 recoveries

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the Minnesota Department of Health, St. Louis County now has 28 confirmed cases of COVID-19, up from 17 cases the day before. As of Wednesday morning, the MDH website reported 1,154 total cases in the state and 39 deaths. The total number of cases includes 632 recoveries. (courtesy: Minnesota Department of Health) Of those confirmed…

Guard Members Activated to Help With Spring Flooding

(Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune via AP) ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz has activated the Minnesota National Guard to help communities deal with spring flooding. Walz said COVID-19 is not the only emergency for which first responders are preparing. Guard members will support municipalities that are dealing with safety and public infrastructure challenges due to flooding, he said. “While…

Worst-Case U of M Forecast Calls for $315M Loss From Virus

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — University of Minnesota administrators are bracing for a loss of as much as $315 million in expected revenue from a $3.8 billion budget because of the COVID-19 outbreak, according to the most severe forecast presented Tuesday to the Board of Regents. The virus forced the university to close the campus and switch indefinitely to online instruction, a…

Local Liquor Stores Taking Extreme Measures to Keep Customers Social Distancing, Avoid Closing

If customers crowd liquor stores as time goes on, they could be forced to close.

Many people stuck at home in both Minnesota and Wisconsin are heading to liquor stores. But when those stores become crowded, business owners have to choose between serving customers, an following the law of public health by maintaining social distance. One sign in front of Shanty Bottle Shop in Duluth’s Hillside neighborhood says it best: “Do not rush into the…

Home Healthcare Service Accepting More Patients to Decrease Need for Hospitalization

Recover Health hopes to eliminate patients' need to go back to the hospital.

DULUTH, Minn.- A home health service in Duluth is doing its part to treat more people at home, while also lifting the burden off of local hospitals. Recover Health on Grand Avenue in Denfeld is currently accepting new patients at about 8 beds a week. They offer services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and help with medications. The service…

Local Addiction Help During Quarantine

During this time of quarantine, people with addiction issues may have a harder time dealing with self-isolation. 

DULUTH, Minn. – During this time of quarantine, people with addiction issues may have a harder time dealing with self-isolation. According to the co-founder of Recovery Alliance Duluth, technology has been a good resource with helping with recovery. Face-to-face contact has been replaced with a virtual world where clients are receiving counseling and outreach. Among the topics discussed with patients,…

President Trump Approves Minnesota Disaster Declaration

(FOX 9) – President Donald Trump has approved a disaster declaration in Minnesota due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This declaration allows for federal funding to aid the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain nonprofits in areas impacted by coronavirus.  Earlier this week, the Minnesota Congressional Delegation urged Trump’s administration to approve Minnesota’s request for a major declaration. “The coronavirus pandemic…

St. Louis County Working to Provide Temporary Housing to the Homeless Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn. – St. Louis County says they are in the process of finalizing contracts with several hotels to provide temporary housing to individuals experiencing homelessness who do not have a safe place to quarantine. “Providing shelter to a person in isolation or quarantine is among the essential services that St. Louis County Public Health is mandated to…

Minnesota House Passes New Protection for Front-Line Workers

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota’s coronavirus infection count surpassed 1,000 Tuesday, as lawmakers moved closer to passing legislation to ensure first responders and health care workers on the front lines of the battle against COVID-19 qualify for workers compensation, even if they can’t prove they caught the virus at work. A surreal scene played out on the House floor as representatives…

Windows Filled With Teddy Bears Brings Positivity To Local Neighborhoods

"I think teddy bears are like comfort food. They're cozy," said Therese Gurba.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s been a “beary” sight to see the community getting creative and connecting during this uncertain time as Covid-19 continues. The Duluth Public Library is inviting more residents to spread positivity as they live out a real life neighborhood bear hunt inspired by a popular children’s book. Many people are tucking away teddy bears of all shapes,…

Researchers Needs Help With Collecting Data From Local Streams

There are more than 15 water depth rulers in nearly 10 streams in the Northland.

DULUTH, Minn – Northland researchers are looking for volunteers to help them collect data to monitor spring water flow in area streams. This is the time when researchers would be out getting their own data, but Covid-19 is preventing them from doing their research. Fortunately, a citizen crowd-sourcing program was set up along local streams several years ago to allow…

U of Minnesota Summer Classes to be Online Only

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The University of Minnesota has announced that summer classes will be online only because of concerns about the coronavirus outbreak. University President Joan Gabel made the announcement in a system-wide email Monday. “While we manage through the immediate concerns and challenges presented by COVID-19, my leadership team and I are also considering plans for the intermediate and long-term future,”…

Inmate Collapses, Dies at Moose Lake Prison

MOOSE LAKE, Minn. (AP) — An inmate has collapsed and died while showering at the Moose Lake prison, Minnesota corrections officials said Sunday. Officials responded immediately after the 48-year-old man collapsed around 9:45 a.m. Sunday and found him in full arrest. Despite life-saving efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said the man had complained of heartburn…

Six-Year-Old’s Birthday Party Becomes Personal Birthday Parade Thanks to Community

Josie Ulvestad was surprised with a parade filled with her friends, and Duluth Police and Fire Department.

DULUTH, Minn.- As gatherings and parties have to be cancelled to maintain social distance, one Duluth community couldn’t let one six-year-old birthday girl go without having some type of celebration. Car honks, sirens, and waves greeted a very happy Josie Ulvestad, as she got her own personal birthday parade. Her mother told the other parents of her classmates over social…

Governor Walz: ‘The State of our State is Resilient’

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – The coronavirus pandemic has brought Minnesota to a grinding halt. Schools have closed, events have been cancelled, and many businesses have shut down as leaders have worked to slow the spread of the disease and prevent hospitals from being overloaded. Governor Walz issued a stay-at-home order that took effect starting March 27, urging Minnesotans…

Phase 3 of Superior Street Reconstruction Starts Monday; Section of Phase 2 Delayed Longer

DULUTH, Minn. – The final phase of the Superior Street reconstruction project begins on Monday, April 6, and it includes the busy intersection of Lake Avenue to 3rd Avenue West. Signs will be posted through the project area, and barricades will be in place beginning Monday morning. 3rd Ave. East to 4th Ave. East delayed until Spring of 2021 because…

Dogs, Anglers Enjoy Sunny Warm Day on Park Point Beach

Humans, dogs, and anglers out enjoying the weather.

DULUTH, Minn.- The sands of Park Point beaches were covered with some fur on Sunday, dog fur that is. Temperatures in the high 40s called dogs and their owners out of the house. “She’s been locked up for a while along with myself, with everything going on,” said Patrick Bittinger, playing fetch with his dog Bella. “So just trying to…

All Natural Surface Trails in Duluth Closed due to Wet Conditions

Temporarily closure done regularly.

DULUTH, Minn.- All surface trails in Duluth have been closed for a few weeks by the city due to trail conditions. Trails like Superior Hiking Trail are routinely closed this time of year when conditions are too wet for foot or bike traffic. According to city staff, this ensures good quality for the trails once things dry out. “What we’re…

LSC Donates PPE to City of Duluth to Distribute

College donated 400 masks, 60 boxes of gloves.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth Emergency Management has received a large donation of Personal Protective Equipment from Lake Superior College. Officials picked up about 400 masks, 60 boxes of gloves, gowns, sharps containers and more. The smaller places that do nursing home or adult care, or even child care needs,” Duluth Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj said. “I think this partnership is going…

Independent Contractors Worried About Future As Pandemic Continues

DULUTH, Minn – The impacts of Covid-19 are beginning to trickle down to businesses, which are still open for essential services. Many local contractors are seeing declines in business and they are fearing what may happen in the future. Independent contractors rely on business from home owners. As the pandemic is creating hardship for their customers, contractors are becoming concerned….

More Layoffs For St. Luke’s Hospital

DULUTH, Minn – More layoffs are happening at St. Luke’s Hospital. As of now the hospital has let go of over a dozen employees, but some volunteered to leave due to a lack of work. St. Luke’s reps cite the decrease in patient volumes is creating the need to layoff staff. Earlier this week, Essentia announced they were laying off more than…

Covid-19 Testing Site Moves From Original Location In West Duluth

Testing site is now stationed on 59th Avenue West.

Essentia Health’s Covid-19 testing site has been open in West Duluth for the last two weeks, but officials have confirmed the testing location has now been moved. The tents were previously posted up in the parking lot of Essentia’s Business Services Center on 46th Avenue West. The testing site is now stationed in the residential area of 59th Avenue West….

Gov. Walz Rolls Out COVID-19 Data Dashboard Website

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota state government rolled out a new COVID-19 dashboard Friday as a one-stop-shop for residents to see the latest data on the state’s response to the pandemic as well as information on how to protect themselves. The website, which will be updated daily, includes data on available ventilators, intensive care beds, personal protective equipment and tests as…

3M Fires Back at Trump Over Order to Produce More Face Masks

Manufacturing giant 3M pushed back Friday against criticism from President Donald Trump overproduction of face masks that are badly needed by American health care workers. 3M said the administration asked it to stop exporting medical-grade masks to Canada and Latin America, which the company said raises “significant humanitarian implications” and will backfire by causing other countries to retaliate against the…

LIVE: Gov. Walz Updates Minnesota on Fight Against COVID-19

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz delivers a video address to update Minnesotans on the state’s fight against COVID-19. The governor’s spokesman said Walz plans to talk about the latest numbers and the challenges ahead. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, the state’s death toll from the pandemic is 22 as of Friday. The state’s confirmed case count rose…

Local Mothers, Organizations Hosting Virtual Birthing Summit

The Virtual Summit is Taking Place April 4 - 10

DULUTH, Minn. – Giving birth or even the thought of starting a family can be a difficult topic to deal with during the stress of the coronavirus pandemic. Thankfully, local professionals and area mothers are teaming up to help expecting parents. Stacy Holden is the creator of the Birth and Baby Fair Duluth. “We have an amazing birth community here…

Walz to Update Minnesota on COVID-19 Fight via Video Address

(Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune via AP, Pool) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz will deliver a video address Friday to update Minnesotans on the state’s fight against COVID-19. The governor’s spokesman said Walz plans to talk about the latest numbers and the challenges ahead. The address will be livestreamed via the governor’s YouTube channel at 1 p.m. Walz has been self-quarantining at the…

‘Associated Builders and Contractors’ Calls Out City of Duluth for Losing Costco Development

DULUTH, Minn. – Costco no longer plans to build a long-awaited store in Duluth. The company was planning to build near the intersection of Haines Road and West Arrowhead Road. The real estate agent working on the project said Costco had issues with the city’s Project Labor Agreement (PLA) as well as with rising costs associated with the project. The…

A Covid-19 Surge Predicted For The Spring In The Northland

Medical experts say a peak could be reached by summer.

  DULUTH, Minn – Covid-19 is continuing to impact millions around the world. Medical professionals are now saying there could be a spike in the number of cases in Minnesota. Many health models on Covid-19 predicts a surge to start in Minnesota between late April and early May. There are multiple prediction models explaining Covid-19’s curve. Medical experts believe not…

Local Company Creates 3-D Face Shields For Medical Professionals

Design Eye Q could produce up to 150 face shields a week.

  DULUTH, Minn. – The need for more personal protective equipment continues to be a concern for many area healthcare facilities. A local company is printing 3-D face shields for healthcare workers in the Northland. Design Eye Q is known for designing parts for aircrafts and performance vehicles. For about a week, the company has been creating more than 75…

St. Louis County Jail to Continue Release of Some Inmates to Help Slow Spread of COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – The St. Louis County Jail is taking some precautions for what it believes will help prevent a large COVID-19 outbreak inside its walls. St. Louis County Sheriff Ross Litman talls us the jail has been releasing low-level non-violent offenders like people with warrants for unpaid fines, traffic violations, misdemeanor theft, and their first DUI offense. Because of…

Whole Foods Co-Op Implements “Safe Shopping” Protocols

DULUTH, Minn. – With many local businesses closing, Whole Foods Co-op has remained opened during the Covid-19 pandemic and staff are practicing safe ways to shop. Plexiglass shields have been installed to enforce social distancing. Signs, and red tape on the floor also indicate no standing zones which is essential for safety of all shoppers. There are a couple other…