Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has extended his Stay-at-Home order two weeks, until Monday, May 18^th. He is also allowing more retail businesses to open on Monday.

City officials in Spencer say they're in the process of updating the city's Housing Market Study to address housing needs in the community. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Thurs.) reported 302 new positive cases of COVID-19 bringing the total caseload so far to 7,145 with 14 additional deaths.

For the second day in a row, Minnesota has seen a defined increase in testing and a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases. 

Rick Ayres of Lakes Marketing and Print in Spirit Lake tells KUOO news he came up with the idea after seeing an online post

Arnolds Park-Okoboji Fire Chief Chris Yungbluth tells KUOO news they were called to the Waterfront Restaurant at Bridges Bay in Arnolds Park around 4:30 this (Thurs.) morning.

The site in Orleans will open this Saturday, May 2nd.

The Spirit Lake High School music and theater department has received honors through the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards

The deadline for Iowans to pay their property taxes has been pushed back some more as the result of Governor Kim Reynolds extension of the Public Health Disaster Emergency.

The Minnesota Department of Health is reporting a single day high of 463 positive cases Tuesday

An additional 467 cases of COVID-19 are being reported today (Wed.) in Iowa, bringing the total number of cases so far in the state to 6,843.

Local health officials say they're concerned with the reopening of some retail establishments and restaurants beginning Friday, saying they're hopeful business owners will be responsible and do the right things.

Polaris Industries announced Tuesday a six percent decrease in sales, or a decline of slightly more than $1.4 million, for the first quarter of 2020.

A traffic stop earlier this month in Emmet county resulted in the arrest of a Ringsted man.

The Iowa Lakes Electric Members Charitable Foundation has awarded $12,000 to eight local hospitals within Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative's service territory.

A collision early this (Tues.) afternoon on Highway 18 just east of the Clay-O'Brien county line claimed the life of a Milford woman.

A bridge in Dickinson county is being closed because it has become structurally deficient.

Andrew Fisher of the Bedell Family YMCA says this marks the third week for the program and that they're adding a site.

The Dickinson County Board of Supervisors today (Tues.) approved a three-phase plan to re-open the courthouse to the general public, but no dates for doing that were set.

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Tues.) reported 508 new cases of COVID-19 bringing the state's total number of cases so far to 6,376.

The city council Monday set May 11^th as the date for a public hearing on a proposed change to the ordinance that would allow residents to shoot off fireworks between the hours of 11:00 am and 10:00 pm July 3^rd and 4^th.

Another big bike ride that was to go through a portion of northwest Iowa this summer has been canceled due to COVID-19.

Spencer Hospital has joined the growing number of hospitals in the region in delaying the re-start of elective surgeries.

Governor Kim Reynolds announced today (Monday) she will issue a proclamation allowing additional businesses and religious organizations in 77 counties to re-open their doors, with some limitations, effective this Friday, May 1^st

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 214 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 3,816. Nobles County saw in increase of 47 new cases, bringing their total to 399.

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Monday) is reporting an additional 349 cases of COVID-19, with the total number of cases now at 5,868.

Public Health officials in O'Brien county are reporting three more positive cases of COVID-19 in that county this (Monday) morning. It brings the total number of cases in that county to seven so far. 

The Spirit Lake Public Library is offering a unique service to its patrons during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Clay County Sheriff's Office says 25-year-old Cody Sharrow of Renner, South Dakota was driving a 2008 Ford F350 eastbound in the 2400 block of 330^th Street when he lost control of the vehicle . The pickup went into the north ditch where it rolled and caught on fire.

The Iowa Attorney General's Office is taking legal action against a northwest Iowa man accusing him of price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A collision Saturday involving a car and a semi on Interstate 90 near Sherburn claimed the life of a woman.

A Spirit Lake man officially announced over the weekend his candidacy for the District 5 seat on the Dickinson County Board of Supervisors.

A Spencer man was arrested last week in Dickinson county on drug charges. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Sunday) is reporting an additional 384 positive cases of COVID-19 in the state, for a total of 5,476 so far. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Saturday) reported an additional 648 cases of COVID-19 bringing the state's total to 5,092 positive cases so far. 

Minor injuries were reported Friday in a two-vehicle collision two miles south of Sheldon on Highway 60.

The Superior Fire Department was called to 1124 280^th Avenue, which is about a mile north and three miles west of Superior after getting a report of a barn on fire. 

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources announced today (Friday) it's extending the closures of campgrounds and other park facilities the agency operates through May 14th, 2020. 

The President and CEO of Lakes Regional Healthcare says he's concerned there could be a spike in COVID-19 cases in the Iowa Great Lakes depending upon the methods used in opening the state back up.

One area hospital says it's still going to hold off on once again offering elective surgeries, even though Governor Kim Reynolds announced today (Fri.) it will be okay for them to do that starting next week if they so wish.

No injuries were reported in a fire early this (Fri.) morning that heavily damaged a house in Sheldon.

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 243 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 3,185. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Friday) is reporting an additional 521 new cases of COVID-19 for a total of 4,445 positive cases so far. That's the highest number yet reported in a single day.

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 221 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 2,942.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced this afternoon that he was ordering schools to remain closed through the remainder of the school year.

The city of Spencer is looking at the possibility of revising its ordinances that pertains to the operation of ATV's and golf carts on city streets.

The Iowa Department of Public Health is reporting today (Thurs.) an additional 176 positive cases of COVID-19 bringing the total number of cases so far to 3,942.

Another major event in the area has fallen victim to COVID-19 concerns.

Amanda Gloyd of Spencer Municipal Utilities says this is an appropriate time for the annual observance with many people starting up construction projects for the season.

Chairman Dr. Pat O'Brien says they're seeking applications from those with expanded development and leadership experience.

Area farmers are taking advantage of ideal spring weather to get the crops in the ground.

A Spencer woman battling a rare form of ALS, or Lou Gehrig's Disease, is now in hospice care.

A Milford man was seriously injured last (Wed.) evening after being struck by a vehicle in the area of 19^th Street and Highway 71 on the north side of Milford.

Windom Area Health has announced plans to start a limited curbside testing program for COVID-19. 

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 154 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 2,721.

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Wed.) is reporting an additional 107 positive cases of COVID-19 for a total of 3,748 to date. 

Iowa Lakes Community College is making some contingencies available for COVID-19 accommodations should they be needed.

John Wills is a recipient of this year's Circle of Excellence Award from the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance.

A lakes area nurse who continues to assist at the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic gives us an update on the situation in New York City.

A traffic stop earlier this month in Emmet county resulted in the arrest of an Estherville man.

Another pork processing facility in the region has announced it is temporarily suspending operations due to COVID-19.

The Okoboji Foundation's Youth in Philanthropy program announced today (Tuesday) they have awarded slightly more than $66,000 in grants to six different projects in the Iowa Great Lakes.

Locally, the Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce received $2,000 in gift cards and the Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber received $1,25 in gift cards.

Some more details are being released into the upcoming June 2^nd Primary Election and how the process is going to work with concerns over COVID-19.

The Iowa Department of Public Health this (Tues.) morning reported an additional 482 cases of COVID-19 in the state, bringing the total number of positive cases to date to 3,641.

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 97 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 2,567.

A tractor rollover Monday in Osceola county claimed the life of a rural Hartley man.

The Dickinson County Board of Supervisors today (Tues.) heard an update on a joint recycling program being conducted with several cities in the county.

A pursuit Monday evening in West Okoboji involving a motorcycle resulted in the operator being taken to the hospital, and police say charges are pending.

An Estherville woman was arrested Saturday after allegedly threatening to burn a house down and injuring a police officer. 

An Estherville meat processor is temporarily shutting down indefinitely after an employee tested positive for COVID-19.

Chamber officials say the decision was made in the best interest of the community and that it was made in consultation with local government and health officials, as well as the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. 

A Spencer woman is among those currently serving on the U.S. Navy Hospital ship anchored near Los Angeles, California during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

They say the decision was made after close consultation with the eight overnight town executive committees, government agencies, and public health officials. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Monday) reported an additional 257 cases of COVID-19 bringing the state's total to 3,159 so far.

JBS USA has announced the indefinite closure of the Worthington pork production facility this morning. The facility employs more than 2,000 team members and processes 20,000 hogs per day.

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 114 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 2,470. 16 of the new cases were reported in Nobles County

In a day and age of troubling developments, there's actually some good news for member-owners of Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative.

Several contractors working on a construction project at Lakes Regional Healthcare have tested positive for COVID-19

The National Weather Service is sounding the alarm over a very high fire danger across the region today (Monday).

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Sunday) is reporting an additional 389 positive cases of COVID-19. That brings the state's total number of cases since the pandemic began to 2,902. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Saturday) is reporting an additional 181 positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases so far in the state to 2,513.

Public health officials today (Saturday) are reporting the second positive case of COVID-19 in Jackson county.

As reported this morning by the Minnesota Department of Health, there was a spike in COVID-19 cases in Nobles County.  At the afternoon press briefing, Gov. Tim Walz confirmed the outbreak is tied to the JBS plant in Worthington

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 159 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 2,071.

A Sioux City man seeking Iowa's 4^th District Congressional seat says what's going on right now with COVID-19 and the meatpacking industry and the disruption in the food chain that will likely follow is deeply concerning to him.

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Fri.) reported an additional 191 new cases of COVID-19 along with four more deaths, bringing the state's total fatalities to 64.

Iowa schools will remain closed the rest of the school year. That announcement today (Friday) from Governor Kim Reynolds

As another sign of the times we're going through right now, the Iowa Department of Transportation is now offering driver's instruction permit testing for students right in their own home.

Okoboji High School Principal Brian Downing earlier this week put together a video on Tik Tok, a platform that's common among young people.

Spencer Hospital is one of 13 sites in Iowa to receive an Abbott ID Now analyzer that allows for a rapid COVID-19 test to be performed locally. 

The number of new COVID-19 cases in Iowa continues to surge.

RuthAnn Burke of the Okoboji Summer Theatre says OST has been in existence since 1958 and that this is the first time they've ever had to do something like this.

Interim President Holly Skopec says one of those, in the amount of $8,822, will be going to the Lakes Regional Healthcare Foundation

A lakes area resident who has returned to the area for the season is taking the advice of local health officials by quarantining for 14 days.

Experts are bracing for what they expect will soon become another scourge associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Dickinson County Hunger Coalition and Iowa Great Lakes Corona Relief have released additional information regarding food pantries. 

The temporary closure of the Smithfield Foods pork processing plant in Sioux Falls has turned an already very difficult situation for area farmers into even more of a dire one.

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 114 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 1,809. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health reported this (Wed.) morning an additional 96 cases of COVID-19 in the state, bringing the total number of positive cases to 1,995.

While the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is continuing to present countless challenges to area businesses, Kiley Miller, President and CEO of the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation, says it could also present opportunities for some.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the deadline for absentee voting in the June 2^nd Primary Election in Iowa being extended.

City Administrator Michael Meyers told the council it streamlines the distribution of that part of the proceeds dedicated to the promotion of tourism.

Authorities in O'Brien county are investigating a hit-and-run crash that left some people in the dark earlier this week.

Clay county authorities are asking for the public's assistance as they investigate a burglary at the office at Scharnberg Park in Spencer.

A Spencer man charged with violating a no contact order was arrested Monday while hiding from authorities under the Grand Avenue bridge in Spencer. 

A lakes area resident who's a registered nurse can truly tell you what it's like to battle COVID-19 in one of the hottest spots in the nation for the virus.

The Arnolds Park Amusement Park is paying tribute to healthcare workers and others at the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The number of new cases of COVID-19 in Iowa has soared. The Iowa Department of Public Health reported an additional 189 positive cases as of this (Tues.) morning

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 45 new cases in the state this morning bringing the state’s total to 1,695.

Polaris Industries has announced it will discontinue the production of Rinker, Striper and Larson FX boats at its plant in Syracuse, Indiana in June.

The Dickinson County Board of Supervisors today (Tues.) awarded bids on some major trails projects to be completed this summer.

Officials with the Iowa Office of Consumer Advocate say you should continue to pay your utility bills or atleast a portion of them if at all possible, even though residents impacted by COVID-19 can get relief.

Polaris Industries announced Monday it's donating iPads, Chromebooks, wireless hot spots, chargers and other electronic items to the Spirit Lake and Estherville-Lincoln Central Schools

The Spirit Lake School Board Monday evening approved proposals for architectural and engineering services for the bus barn project.

The city of Arnolds Park is reminding residents that all city parks and the Minnewashta Campground remain closed through April 30th in accordance with an order issued by Governor Kim Reynolds.

After a record number of positive COVID-19 cases announced Sunday in Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Health reported just 29 new cases in the state this (Monday) morning bringing the state’s total to 1,650. For the first time in almost three weeks, there were no new deaths reported

The Iowa Department of Public Health announced today (Mon.) an additional 123 new positive cases of COVID-19 in the state, bringing the total number of cases since the outbreak began to 1,710. 

Elderbridge Agency on Aging and RIDES announced today (Mon.) they're partnering to provide free grocery pick-up delivery for those 60 years and older.

Organizers of RiseFest announced today (Mon.) this year's event is being postponed due to COVID-19 concerns.

Jackson-based Federated Rural Electric Association announced today (Mon.) it's awarded a little more than $17,000 in its latest round of grants from its “Operation Round Up” program.

A local architect has received some special recognition from the American Institute of Architects, Iowa Chapter.

Several maintenance projects on Dickinson County's trails system are still scheduled to be done this spring, in spite of coronavirus and our recent return to old man winter.

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Sunday) is reporting 77 additional positive cases of COVID-19 in the state, along with seven more deaths. Six of those were in Linn county with one in Washington county.

(Des Moines)-3 additional deaths confirmed from coronavirus in State of Iowa

(Sioux Falls, SD)-Heavy snow and strong northerly winds expected through Monday morning.

(Sibley)-Case is a female between ages of 41 and 60

(Des Moines)-Governor Reynolds creates Feeding Iowans Task Force, Medical PPE Shortage Order has been issued

(St. Paul)-5 new deaths reported on Thursday

(Okoboji)-Hike is free and open now for families to enjoy safe outdoor activity

(Des Moines)-Officials also note that State Tax Refunds taking about 30 days

(Spirit Lake)-Iowa DNR reminds Hunters and Hikers to not wear red or colors resembling wild male birds

(Sioux City)-Lay offs due to extension of Casino closures

(Spencer)-Applications still being accepted

(Cylinder)-Numerous agencies responded to scene, MART activated

(Johnston)-Two more deaths were reported, both in Linn County

(St. Paul, MN)-11 new deaths reported on Wednesday in Minnesota

(Estherville)-Engineering Technology helping to create vital equipment

(Ames)-Service is available free of charge 24 hours a day

(Jackson, MN)-Two students selected for $1,000 scholarships

(St. Paul, MN)-Executive Order also extends the closure of bars, restaurants, and other public venues through 11:59 pm on May 3, 2020

(Spirit Lake)-Minnesota Governor Walz expected to modify shelter at home order Wednesday afternoon

There's growing concern among local governmental entities over the potential impacts the COVID-19 pandemic may be having on their budgets. An already sharp decline in Road Use Tax Revenue and the potential for a huge drop in hotel-motel tax revenues are fueling the concerns.

(Orange City)-Extension says farmers should take precautions for employees, their families and themselves

(Spencer)-Need continues to help support medical community

(Estherville)-Diplomas to be sent to students via email

(Milford)-Playgrounds, ballparks and track/football field to remain closed

(Ankeny)-Ride has been a tradition for over 50 years

(Spencer)-Opens spaces and trails to remain open, social distancing guidelines recommended

(Sioux Falls, SD)-Ethanol producers across the country are slashing production amid the ongoing crisis

(Johnston)-State total now at 1,048

(St. Paul)-Martin County continues to be a hot spot

Meeting electronically, the Dickinson County Board of Supervisors approved a request from the Dickinson County Trails Board to purchase some property at the corner of Lake Street and Peoria Avenue in Spirit Lake, the former location of what was known as the shiny diner, for $230,000.

(Spirit Lake)-Message follows last week's Joint Letter issued by Dickinson County Governmental entities.

(Spirit Lake)-Spirit Lake Chamber has partnered with Iowa Great Lakes Chamber to create local guide online

(Spirit Lake)-Anyone wishing to sew face masks should contact Jennifer Gustafson

(Storm Lake)-Individual has reportedly recovered from symptoms

(Spencer)-Connie allegedly led police on high speed chase with infant daughter in car who was unharmed

(Johnston)-Governor says closures and restrictions to be enforced, specifically the limitation on social gatherings

(Des Moines)-Day users are urged to follow safety guidelines and social distancing

(Spencer)-Corridor can help guide businesses to appropriate assistance

(Estherville)-Some Volunteers finding ways to help from home

(Storm Lake)-City officials urge social distancing on area trails which remain open

(Orange City)-Executive Committee hopes Festival will return for 80th Anniversary in 2021

(Sibley)-Plan to be finalized by April 10

The Minnesota Department of Health today (Sunday) is reporting a total of 935 positive cases of COVID-19 since the outbreak began. The death toll stood at 29.

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Sunday) is reporting an additional 83 positive cases of COVID-19, with eight additional deaths.

City officials made the announcement today (Saturday), saying the action was based on the recommendation of Dickinson County Public Health officials.

The number of positive cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota continues to grow, with a total of 865 cases reported as of this (Sat.) morning. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health announced late this (Sat.) an additional 87 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Minor injuries were reported Friday in a single vehicle crash near George.

Walmart is announcing new changes to its stores' policies with the hope to encourage social distancing amongst its customers.

Thursday's announcement by Governor Kim Reynolds to extend an emergency medical disaster proclamation originally issued March 19th will push back further the late penalty on property tax payments. 

The Iowa Great Lakes Corona Relief program is reminding residents food banks throughout Dickinson county remain in operation during the COVID-19 outbreak, but with some modifications.

Hy-Vee today (Fri.) announced additional protective measures being taken in its stores as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Iowa Department of Public Health is reporting today (Fri.) an additional 85 positive cases of COVID-19 in the state, for a total of 699 positive cases since the outbreak started.

A disaster recovery fund has been established by the Okoboji Foundation to support those populations in the Iowa Great Lakes Community that are most negatively impacted by COVID-19.

The Dickinson County Recycling Center announced earlier this week it was reverting back to its winter hours due to concerns with COVID-19. Today (Fri.), Center Manager Charles Vigdal announced some additional changes that have gone into effect and will remain in place until further notice.

Valero Industries says it's plant in Harley started producing the substance Thursday.

Motorists on Highway 71 in Jackson and Cottonwood counties can expect some longer commutes beginning later this spring and continuing through the summer.

Governor Kim Reynolds this (Thurs.) afternoon announced she's extending the closure of non essential businesses and schools in the state through the end of April in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

It was announced today (Thursday) Lakes Regional Healthcare, Lakes Family Practice and Spirit Lake Medical Center are temporarily transitioning to virtual visits instead of in-person visits.

The laborious task of counting the population and figuring out where everyone lives is underway.

The Iowa Department of Public Health today (Thurs.) is reporting an additional 66 positive cases of COVID-19 in the state, bringing the total number of cases to 614 since the outbreak began.

While the confirmed numbers of positive COVID-19 cases in the area remain relatively small, public health officials say that's very likely to change over the next several weeks.

The city of Spirit Lake will begin curbside pick up of green waste this coming Monday, April 6th. 

The city of Spencer has temporarily closed a number of outdoor recreational facilities due to COVID-19 concerns.

An incident Tuesday night in Palo Alto county resulted in the arrest of a Ruthven man.

A Rock Rapids was injured this past Sunday in an accidental shooting.

We told you earlier in the week about a series of scams associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities say there's another one you need to be aware of as well.

A Peterson man has been sentenced in Palo Alto county on a charge of a probation revocation on an original count of conspiracy to commit intimidation with a dangerous weapon.

(Milford)-Residents encouraged to call ahead with questions.

Officials with Seasons Center for Behavioral Health say they're seeing an increased demand for their services as the COVID-19 crisis continues.

The Iowa Department of Public Health reported late this (Wed.) morning an additional 52 positive cases of COVID-19 in the state

Governmental entities in Dickinson county, along with several chambers of commerce, have issued a joint letter highly urging those coming back to the Iowa Great Lakes for the season to self-isolate for 14 days. 

Police in Hartley are asking for the public's help as they investigate a burglary that took place last week at a restaurant there.