Northlanders Preparing After First Winter Storm

DULUTH - It's the first major snow storm of the season as the Northland welcomes winter with more than a foot of snow in some spots. Manager of Burggraf’s Ace Hardware, Aaron Gursky said, “This year we kind of prepared a little bit better." It's nothing new to Northlanders, but the first snow storm sends many out to the grocery stores. Northlanders were quick to prepare for the predicted 8 to 12 inches headed for Duluth. General Manager at Mount Royal, Steve Schadewald said, "The early portion of the day has been busy and then we will get slammed one more time today when everybody's going home." People should stock up on the essentials. Schadewald said, "Water, milk, eggs, pot roasts, pizzas. Things that you can make multiple meals out of." Schadewald says they are prepared for what the winter will bring. “Stock up, you know load the specials up and make sure you have plenty for the customers," Schadewald stated. Stocking up on food wasn't the only response to the first snow fall. While people are preparing themselves for winter, stores are preparing for people. "Winter clothes, boots, warm clothing, gloves, hats, the whole ball wax," said Marine General's General Manager Russ Francisco. By stocking up on snow blowers, shovels, sand and salt. Gursky stated, "We brought more different products in, we actually brought in different snow shovels that are more sturdy.""Selling a little bit more salt to businesses like in July and August so they are prepared for the snow," Gusky continued. According to Francisco, the demand for winter items has increased within the last couple days. “They are going to sell through and they are going to walk away, the manufacturers are and so what we have is what we have," Francisco said. In case of an emergency, make sure you stock up on car essentials. Gursky stated, "Carry a nice sturdy shovel in case you get stuck in your trunk maybe a little bit of tube sand in your trunk for weight that always helps."