Howie: Essentia’s ER is the spine of Northern Minnesota
Essentia’s downtown campus functions as a Level I trauma center — the highest designation available — meaning it must have surgeons, anesthesiologists, neurosurgeons and critical care specialists available at all hours. Not on call from home. Available.
Related
Howie: AF1 opens with Albany atop Fan Zone rankings
The structure of the opening weekend leaves little room for gradual buildup. For Albany, it is a chance to reaffirm its position. For Minnesota and the rest of the field, it is an early test of whether preseason projections hold or begin to shift.
Howie: Castronova signing with UFL the talk of AF1
Castronova’s signing validates the league as a legitimate proving ground. Producing talent that advances to the UFL strengthens AF1’s credibility. At the same time, it underscores the league’s challenge: retaining elite players long enough to build recognizable stars.
Howie: Duluth’s 2027 budget will be defined by choices, not excuses
Duluth’s Local Government Aid has increased overall, not decreased. From 2016 to 2026, it rose by about $6.07 million, or roughly 20.7%. The sharpest jump was from 2023 to 2024.
Howie: In St. Louis County, project labor agreements are the practical choice
St. Louis County has deep roots in organized labor, from mining to construction. PLAs reinforce a system that prioritizes training, safety and accountability — ensuring that public investments support a workforce prepared to deliver complex projects under challenging conditions.
Latest
Allete earns seventh consecutive ‘Special Distinction’ honor for women’s leadership
“At Allete, our success is driven by the diverse talents and perspectives of our people and by living our values. Inclusion shapes our leadership, our decisions and our future.” -- Bethany Owen, Allete chair, president and chief executive officer
County board sends proposed land use Ordinance 62 updates back to planning commission
Public comment suggested more work is needed to review two areas: rules regarding storage of six or more inoperable vehicles, as well as classification of data centers.
Tim Meyer: Rally around the Rendezvous
I think we can expand on the already great Lester River Rendezvous as our own contribution to Duluth’s unique neighborhoods and provide another special weekend for those visiting Duluth.