Minnesota Archives - Page 255 of 380

Ashley Grimm Lands DFL Endorsement For St. Louis County Board

May 10, 2020

Dan Hanger,

Ashley Grimm DULUTH, Minn. – Ashley Grimm has landed the DFL endorsement for St. Louis County Commissioner Dist. 3, which represents the western portion of Duluth. Grimm received more than 69 percent of the votes cast by convention delegates at the first-ever electronic virtual convention. This came after a 2-week balloting period. DFL competitor Noah Hobbs received the remaining votes….

Hometown Heroes: 5/10/20

May 10, 2020

Dan Hanger,

Categories: Hometown Hero – article, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Man Credited With Helping Save Neighbor’s Garage On Fire

May 10, 2020

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. – A neighbor is being credited for helping stop a fire from getting out of control in Lincoln Park. The Duluth Fire Department says the man saw his neighbor’s garage on fire, so he grabbed two fire extinguishers to tackle it before firefighters arrived. The fire happened around 1:30 p.m. Sunday. On the 2400 block of West 24th…

Busy Mother’s Day for Vanilla Bean To-Go Brunches

May 10, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- Mother’s Day was busy for many restaurants that offer brunch in the Twin Ports. Vanilla Bean in Duluth said they saw a line out the door for their brunch-to-go. Even though they had about 15-16 orders lined up with over an hour wait for some people, owner Jason Vincent said people still thanked him for being open and…

Welfare Checks Increase Slightly in Itasca County Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Overall Calls For Criminal Activity Are Down in Many Iron Range Cities

May 10, 2020

Brett Scott,

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – During a press briefing Friday, Grand Rapids Police Chief Scott Johnson had a message for residents amid the COVID-19 pandemic — to remain calm, and check up on your family, friends, and neighbors. Overall calls for criminal activity are down in the City of Grand Rapids. Shoplifting crimes are now being dealt with electronically and through…

St. Scholastica Spring Commencement Goes Virtual, Seniors Look Back on Last Year

While disappointing, not having an in-person commencement doesn't change the fact that they completed four years of college, seniors say.

May 10, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- Graduating seniors at the College of St. Scholastica are celebrating the end of their college lives a bit differently than they may have expected: with a virtual commencement ceremony. This time last year, there was a full gymnasium filled with caps and gowns. “I was homeschooled high school so I never had the ceremony so I was really…

Cloquet High Seniors Pick Up Graduation Cap and Gowns Drive-Thru Style

Teachers, Family and Community members wear purple and come out in support.

May 9, 2020

Arman Rahman,

CLOQUET, Minn.- Picking up your graduation cap and gown is a big moment for high school seniors. So the Cloquet High School Administration and the surrounding community made it even bigger, while still maintaining social distance–having them available as a drive-thru. “It really boiled down to some form of togetherness,” said Principal Steve Battaglia. A chorus of honks greeted Cloquet…

Hospitality Industry Hit Hard By Covid-19

May 9, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn. – A recent survey conducted by Hospitality Minnesota shows more than half of businesses in the hospitality industry across the state including hotels, restaurants, and bars will likely shut down permanently as a result of financial impacts of Covid-19. With each passing day, it is getting more difficult for businesses to keep up with mounting obligations such as…

Bailey Builds Allows Customers to Shop from their Cars

Car-side shopping is in addition to curbside pickup and an online store.

May 9, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- An arts studio and store on Grand Avenue in Duluth is changing the way they bring handmade gifts to customers. You can now shop Bailey Builds from your car. One of the staff members will meet you at your vehicle with a mask and gloves to find out what you’re looking for, come back with gift ideas, and…

Minnesota House Approves Bill That Would Raise Tobacco Age to 21

May 9, 2020

The Associated Press,

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota House has approved legislation that raises the age for residents to buy tobacco products from 18 to 21. Lawmakers voted 89-41 Saturday in favor of the measure known as Tobacco 21. It became federal law last December, but promoters of the state bill say it is needed for compliance and enforcement. Democratic Rep. Heath…

New Scenic Cafe Offering Mother’s Day Meal Kits

May 8, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

DULUTH, Minn. – A popular Northland restaurant is offering some special meal kits for mothers this weekend. New Scenic Cafe is delivering and offering pickup for about 100 meal kits for Mother’s Day with brunch, dinner or a land and sea grill options in each kit. Owners say, the goal is to bring these popular items out to celebrate Northland…

Duluth Community Walks To Honor An Unarmed Man Shot & Killed in Georgia

"I'm terrified as a mom. I can't sleep at night. I can't eat. It's a thing as a parent all you want to do is keep your kids safe," said Diana Oestreich.

May 8, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn. – On Friday, the Duluth community came together to walk in honor of the life of an unarmed black man from Georgia who was tragically shot and killed while jogging back in February. Instead of celebrating what would have been his 26th birthday, the family of Ahmaud Arbery will now be mourning his death. Communities around the nation,…

Denfeld Staff Deliver Caps, Gowns to Seniors

On Friday, Denfeld staff showed their appreciation for the seniors by getting them the materials they would normally receive before a diploma.

May 8, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

DULUTH, Minn. – For the 2020 class at Denfeld High School, their year has been different to say the least. “We’re really trying to add those special pieces that you’d think they would be missing out on but they are still getting to some degree,” Denfeld English Teacher, Mariah Macioce says. On Friday, Denfeld staff showed their appreciation for the…

Minnesota Law Enforcement Seeing Spike in Speed Related Traffic Violations

DUI Traffic Citations Are on the Decrease Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

May 8, 2020

Brett Scott,

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Law enforcement authorities in Minnesota want to remind residents their main goal through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is to support local health officials and encourage safe social distancing practices. During a press briefing Friday by Itasca County law enforcement officials, the Minnesota State Patrol shared how troopers are seeing an uptick in speeding violations throughout the…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Friday, May 8

May 8, 2020

Site Staff,

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 10,888 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday morning and 26 new deaths bringing the death total to 534 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 101,270 tests have been completed to date. There are 5,697 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 1,549 patients have required hospitalization…

Minnesota Bans Large, In-Person Graduation Ceremonies for Class of 2020 Amid Pandemic

May 8, 2020

Kelly Tekler,

(FOX 9) – Minnesota education and health officials are banning large, in-person graduation ceremonies for the class of 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, saying the safest way for schools to celebrate is for everyone to stay home. Officials released public health guidance Friday for high school and college graduation ceremonies amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance was developing in consultation with school leaders…

Walz Outlines Virus ‘Battle Plan’ at Minnesota Nursing Homes

May 8, 2020

The Associated Press,

(Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune via AP, Pool) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz outlined a “battle plan” Thursday to keep Minnesota long-term care residents and workers safe against COVID-19, which so far has claimed the lives of more than 400 residents of nursing homes or assisted-living facilities in the state. Walz told reporters that the state is “prepared to go very…

Duluth Hospitals Confident Elective Surgeries Can Go On ‘Safely’

Both St. Luke's and Essentia Health Have Protocols in Place Before a Patient Receives a Surgical Procedure Amid COVID-19

May 7, 2020

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is allowing elective surgical procedures to start again on Monday, May 11 after hospitals take preventative measures to ensure continued safety. Before surgical dates, both St. Luke’s and Essentia Health will be testing patients for COVID-19 three days before their procedure. They will then ask patients to quarantine themselves up until the date…

The “No Poop Fairy” Returns To Give People A Reminder To Pick Up After Their Pets

May 7, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn. – The “No Poop Fairy” has returned. The unmagical being visited Hartley Nature Center in Duluth to remind residents to do their “civic dooty” of picking up after their pets. Last year, the Regional Stormwater Protection Team debuted a PSA starring the “No Poop Fairy” to help people be mindful when they are out with their pets. This…

UMD Receives Grant To Examine Climate Change Around The Great Lakes

Researchers will examine increasing water levels, changes in algae growth, and storm patterns.

May 7, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Duluth recently received a grant for half a million dollars to look more into how climate-driven disturbances are impacting the Great Lakes including lake superior. For the next three years, this grant will give UMD the opportunity to bring together more than 30 scientists, practitioners, and decision-makers to gain a better understanding of…

Officials: Northland Likely to See a ‘Wave’ Rather Than ‘Surge’ in COVID-19 Patients

St. Luke's and Essentia Health Update The Public on a Weekly Basis Regarding Preparations, New Scientific Models

May 7, 2020

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – With strict social distancing measures in place, local health experts now believe the Northland will likely not see a surge in COVID-19 patients, but rather a wave or the occasional spike in cases. During a weekly press briefing from St. Luke’s and Essentia Health Thursday, a panel of doctors and researchers gave an update on the projection…

Fond Du Lac Reservation Seeking PPE Donations

May 7, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Fond Du Lac Reservation is seeking donations of personal protective equipment. The Reservation has been screening people entering the tribal center for well over a month. Now, the band is in need of N-95 and cloth masks, disinfectant wipes and thermometer covers so they can be distributed throughout the community. “Our Fond Du Lac community has…

Minnesota Company to Close North Dakota Coal-fired Plant

May 7, 2020

The Associated Press,

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The company that operates the largest coal-fired power plant in North Dakota announced Thursday it will close the factory and replace most of its energy with new wind farms in Minnesota. Maple Grove, Minnesota-based Great River Energy said its Coal Creek Station near Underwood in west-central North Dakota will be shuttered in the second half of…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Thursday, May 7

May 7, 2020

Site Staff,

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 9,365 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday morning and 28 new deaths bringing the death total to 508 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 97,421 tests have been completed to date. There are 5,308 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 1,459 patients have required hospitalization…

Two More Employees Test Positive for COVID-19 at USG Plant in Cloquet

May 7, 2020

Site Staff,

CLOQUET, Minn. – Two more employees have tested positive for COVID-19 at the USG plant in Cloquet, according to a USG spokesperson. The company has now had a total of three positive cases at the plant. The first employee tested positive for the new coronavirus last month. A USG spokesperson tells Fox 21 that after learning two more employees have…

Fire Crews Battle Lakeside Home Fire Wednesday Night

May 7, 2020

Site Staff,

DULUTH, Minn. – A home in Lakeside sustained heavy damage after a fire broke out Wednesday night. According to the Duluth Fire Department, crews responded to a kitchen fire at 4617 Oneida Street around 11:46 p.m. Thursday. Authorities say one of the residents was able to partially extinguish the fire that had started on the stove and made its way…

Minnesotans Urged to Fish Close to Home to Slow COVID-19

May 7, 2020

The Associated Press,

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesotans should fish close to home to help curb the coronavirus pandemic when the walleye season opens this weekend, avoiding overnight stays and driving no further than they can go on one tank of gas, Department of Natural Resources officials said Wednesday. A surge in fishing license sales indicates that many Minnesotans are getting antsy under the…

Eagan’s Mayor Pleads Guilty to Drunken Driving

May 7, 2020

The Associated Press,

EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — Eagan’s mayor is finally talking about his decision to drink and drive. At the end of a virtual City Council meeting Tuesday, Mayor Mike Maguire said he had pleaded guilty to driving while impaired earlier in the day and was “accepting, without objection, the consequences” of his mistake. Maguire said he had been drinking while watching…

Siblings Donate Meals to Duluth Police, Continue to Raise Money to Give More

May 6, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- Some hungry police officers got a hearty meal donated by a local family Wednesday. The Parrott siblings have been raising money through their GoFundMe to give food to first responders. They have different fundraising goals, one of which involved Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj and Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken jumping into the Minnesota Slip last week. The siblings…

Some Duluth Restaurants, Hotels Look Toward Uncertain Future

Hotels and restaurants try to stay afloat after decreased business for this long.

May 6, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- As many local businesses in the hospitality industry make adjustments to continue staying open, for others that might not be an option. Dubh Linn Brew Pub in Downtown Duluth is changing their business model, offering delivery of growlers of their in-house brew, cider, wine, and food five days a week from 4pm-8pm. “People are looking for a reason,…

Arrowhead Region Receives $600,000 Brownfields Grant

This is the first time the arrowhead region of Minnesota has been chosen for the grant.

May 6, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

DULUTH, Minn. – Several cities in Minnesota will be receiving a grant totaling $600,000 towards assessing and cleaning up abandoned industrial sites. Members of the EPA, along with Congressman Pete Stauber announced that the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission has been selected to help revitalize areas in Two Harbors including an ore dock there. Other areas include Grand Rapids, International Falls,…

Crime Rates Go Down As Opioid Overdoses Increase

This is the second spike in opioid overdoses this year. In February there was a total of 25.

May 6, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn. – Since the Minnesota Stay-at-home order first took effect back in march, crime rates have gone down drastically in the city of Duluth. However, opioid overdoses are still happening during the pandemic. Duluth police say they have seen a rise in cases in the month of April. As many people are practicing social distancing and staying home during…

A New Bill Could Extend Off-Sale Purchases For Breweries And Distilleries

The bill would relax restrictions for 60 days.

May 6, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn. – Local breweries and distilleries have been significantly impacted by Covid-19. A new bill could give them some relief in restrictions preventing the sale of their products. Minnesota Representatives Liz Olson and Sydney Jordan recently introduced a bill to help Minnesota craft breweries and distilleries to recover from the loss of business. The bill creates an economic opportunity…

Duluthians Celebrate “Bike to Anywhere” Day

May 6, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

DULUTH, Minn. – With the Covid-19 pandemic, the annual Bike to School Day put on by MNDoT and Minnesota Safe Routes to School has been changed to “Bike to Anywhere” Day. It occurs on the first Wednesday of May every year, and the day gives parents and children the opportunity to tune up their bikes and find the safest routes…

St. Luke’s Reminds Patients to Seek In-Person Care for Medical Emergencies

Many Patients Are Receiving Mixed Messages About Medical Care Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

May 6, 2020

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – Staff at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth urge patients to come into their facilities if you are experiencing a medical emergency. They’ve received reports of patients receiving mixed messages when it comes to handling medical emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic. “If you have a medical problem, it’s safe to come see your physician,” said Dr. Nick Johnson,…

Windy Weather Yields Smaller Bird Count During Spring Migration

Spring Bird Counters Set Up Near Enger Tower and Thompson Hill Depending on Wind Conditions

May 6, 2020

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – Coronavirus has pretty much put a halt to humans traveling across the nation, but it’s not stopping birds and other wildlife from soaring back into the Northland for the summer season. “We have to be here regardless of the weather,” said John Richardson, a spring migration counter with Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth. A windy, cold…

Gov. Walz Allows Elective Surgeries Statewide; Essentia, St. Luke’s Say They’re Ready

The Governor signed an executive order Tuesday allowing elective surgeries and procedures, reversing an order from March.

May 5, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- An executive order from Governor Tim Walz gave the green light for healthcare providers to resume elective surgeries and procedures on May 11th. A move officials at Essentia Health and St. Luke’s Hospitals in Duluth said they are ready for. Health systems statewide have lost about $1 billion a month since procedures and surgeries were banned in March,…

CSS Students Make Masks While Getting Paid For On-Campus Jobs

One student has made about 100 masks, which she has already distributed to homeless shelters, grocery stores, and hospitals in her hometown.

May 5, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn. – Many students at the College of St. Scholastica are no longer working their jobs on-campus as the college has moved to online teaching to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. But nearly 30 of those student employees are now getting a chance to get paid, while helping to make masks for essential employees and medical workers. Many…

Bridgeman’s Restaurant Sells Sundae Kits

The restaurant has already sold hundreds of kits.

May 5, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn – Good news for all the ice cream lovers. Bridgeman’s Restaurant in Duluth is now selling sundae kits as a way to help add some fun while you get through the coronavirus pandemic. Each kit comes with two pints of Bridgeman’s ice cream of your choosing, four homemade waffle bowls, five assorted toppings, and your very own Bridgeman’s souvenir…

UMD To Hold Virtual Graduation Commencement

May 5, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

DULUTH, Minn. – UMD graduating seniors won’t be getting the traditional in-person commencement ceremony this year. However, a virtual ceremony will go live on the universities website at 11 a.m. on May 16th. Each of the five university of Minnesota campuses have this option for students with family and friends able to watch. There will be a series of recorded…

Duluth High Schools Creating Virtual Graduation Ceremony Videos

May 5, 2020

Alexandra Burnley,

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth Public Schools will hold virtual graduations this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the school district announced on Tuesday. “Graduation from high school is a significant milestone, one that students anticipate and look forward to for years,” Bill Gronseth, the ISD 709 Superintendent, said in a press release. “In the face of the pandemic and the restrictions…

Duluth Trails Open After Freeze/Thaw, No Plans to Close Beaches So Far

Walkers, runners and bikers flock to their favorite trails.

May 4, 2020

Arman Rahman,

DULUTH, Minn.- Just in time for the nice weather, Duluth Parks and Recreation announced that most of the city’s multi-use natural surface trails are now open after being closed due to wet conditions. “It’s been a long time coming this spring,” said Parks and Rec Trail Cooridinator Matt Andrews. “We’ve all been patiently waiting for these trails to open up….

Retail And Non-Essential Businesses Reopen For Curbside

"I think small businesses are a big part economy. The more small businesses we can get up and running, I think it will be a big help for everyone," said Top Knots to Tails Co-owner Karla Wirtz.

May 4, 2020

Nachai Taylor,

DULUTH, Minn- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz recently gave the green light for retail and some non-essential businesses to reopen, but only for curbside pickup and delivery. And Monday was the first day shops re-open with those restrictions. Thousands of retail and other non-essential businesses have been closed for more than a month due to the Stay-at-Home executive order. For many…

Minnesota Anglers Gear Up For Opener

May 4, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

DULUTH, Minn. – Anglers are gearing up for this weekends upcoming fishing opener in Minnesota. Over at Marine General on London Road, they have stocked up on everything fishing. Management says, they are anticipating a busy opener with people itching to get out on the water. “We’ve bought extra rods and reels and tackle. And a lot more tubes and…

Crews Begin Removal Of Lake Avenue Steam Pipes

May 4, 2020

Reece Lindquist,

DULUTH, Minn. – Crews have begun removing a 100-year-old steam system on Lake Avenue during Phase 3 of the Superior Street project. With that comes the removal of pipes containing asbestos. The public is asked to stay within the marked pedestrian areas during this time. The first stage of phase three is scheduled to wrap up in July. Categories: Business,…

Numbers Spike for Minnesotans in Intensive Care for COVID-19

May 4, 2020

The Associated Press,

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The number of Minnesotans hospitalized in intensive care with COVID-19 has jumped for three straight days to the highest levels yet, health officials said Monday. The Minnesota Department of Health reported 166 patients in intensive care units as of Monday, up 11 from a one-day high of 155 set Sunday and a high of 135 set Saturday….

Duluth Woman Killed in Sunday ATV Crash

May 4, 2020

Site Staff,

COOK, Minn. – Authorities say a 53-year-old Duluth woman died Sunday night after an ATV crash in rural Cook. According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s office, deputies were dispatched to an ATV accident in the 3200 block of Randa Road on the northern side of Lake Vermillion around 9:20 p.m. Sunday. When deputies and first responders arrived on the…

Hometown Heroes: 5/3/20

May 3, 2020

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. — FOX 21 is highlighting local front-line workers who are giving their all for the community during the coronavirus pandemic. Here are just a few of our Hometown Heroes from Sunday’s broadcast. If you’d like to nominate someone, just head over to FOX 21’s Facebook page to upload an image and a brief description about the person. We…

Duluthian With MN Army National Guard Awarded Purple Heart

May 3, 2020

Dan Hanger,

DULUTH, Minn. — A Duluthian with the Minnesota Army National Guard has been honored to receive the Purple Heart after surviving an attack in Iraq earlier this year. Al Johnson, a flight surgeon with the 2-147 Assault Helicopter Battalion, got the honor over the weekend along with some of his peers. Johnson suffered a traumatic brain injury during the Iranian…

Carlton’s Flapjack Fiasco Fundraiser for St. Jude Hospital Adapts Amid Pandemic

10th annual pancake breakfast ditches the pancake and the breakfast, with volunteers using long-handled buckets to collect cash from cars.

May 3, 2020

Arman Rahman,

CARLTON, Minn.- COVID-19 couldn’t put a kabash on the Flapjack Fiasco Fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which ditched the pancakes for a drive-by donation collection on Sunday. The four corners of the intersection of Highway 210 and 45 were flanked by neon vests, stopping cars as they drove by. “We made some buckets on a piece of bamboo…

Minnesota

Overall Calls For Criminal Activity Are Down in Many Iron Range Cities

While disappointing, not having an in-person commencement doesn't change the fact that they completed four years of college, seniors say.

Teachers, Family and Community members wear purple and come out in support.

Car-side shopping is in addition to curbside pickup and an online store.

"I'm terrified as a mom. I can't sleep at night. I can't eat. It's a thing as a parent all you want to do is keep your kids safe," said Diana Oestreich.

On Friday, Denfeld staff showed their appreciation for the seniors by getting them the materials they would normally receive before a diploma.

DUI Traffic Citations Are on the Decrease Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

Both St. Luke's and Essentia Health Have Protocols in Place Before a Patient Receives a Surgical Procedure Amid COVID-19

Researchers will examine increasing water levels, changes in algae growth, and storm patterns.

St. Luke's and Essentia Health Update The Public on a Weekly Basis Regarding Preparations, New Scientific Models

Hotels and restaurants try to stay afloat after decreased business for this long.

This is the first time the arrowhead region of Minnesota has been chosen for the grant.

This is the second spike in opioid overdoses this year. In February there was a total of 25.

The bill would relax restrictions for 60 days.

Many Patients Are Receiving Mixed Messages About Medical Care Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

Spring Bird Counters Set Up Near Enger Tower and Thompson Hill Depending on Wind Conditions

The Governor signed an executive order Tuesday allowing elective surgeries and procedures, reversing an order from March.

One student has made about 100 masks, which she has already distributed to homeless shelters, grocery stores, and hospitals in her hometown.

The restaurant has already sold hundreds of kits.

Walkers, runners and bikers flock to their favorite trails.

"I think small businesses are a big part economy. The more small businesses we can get up and running, I think it will be a big help for everyone," said Top Knots to Tails Co-owner Karla Wirtz.

10th annual pancake breakfast ditches the pancake and the breakfast, with volunteers using long-handled buckets to collect cash from cars.

Severe Weather