Coronavirus

Better City Superior Initiative May Create More Opportunities in Superior

The future of business development in one Northland community could soon be looking even brighter.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The future of business development in one Northland community could soon be looking even brighter. The City of Superior could soon put what’s being called the “Better City Superior Initiative” in place. This allows the creation of a special development district where a hospitality tax can be levied on restaurants and hotels. Funds collected would help support…

Wisconsin Health Officials Launch Vaccine Registry

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin health officials said Thursday they plan to launch a new online COVID-19 vaccine registry next month. People will be able to log into the registry, determine if they’re eligible, and schedule appointments for shots through their local health departments. The registry also will remind people about scheduling for a second dose and help people monitor…

COVID-19 Vaccine Connector Will Alert Minnesotans When They’re Eligible for Vaccine

(FOX 9) – Minnesota is launching a new vaccination website to help people find out when, where, and how to get their COVID-19 vaccine. Minnesotans who have not yet been vaccinated are encouraged to sign up for the COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, regardless of their current vaccine eligibility status. There is no cost and no deadline for signing up. After you fill out a…

Nearly Naked Ruck March Back On This Year After Pandemic Cancellation in 2020

The Veteran fundraiser the Nearly Naked Ruck March will be happening this year despite the pandemic.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Veteran fundraiser the Nearly Naked Ruck March will be happening this year despite the pandemic. It’s all happening on the skyline loop at Enger Tower on March 27th. In 2020, the event had to be canceled because of COVID-19 and this will be the first march that has happened since social distancing started. For the event,…

Lester Park Golf Course to Permanently Close after 2023 Golf Season

For the next two years, Lester Park Golf Course will remain closed before having its final season in 2023 when Enger Park’s course undergoes some major renovations.

DULUTH, Minn. – For the next two years, Lester Park Golf Course will remain closed before having its final season in 2023 when Enger Park’s course undergoes some major renovations. In 2019, a task force found the futures of Lester and Enger Golf Courses were in jeopardy because of an oversupply of golf options in Duluth. Failing golf infrastructure and…

More Than 1 Million Doses of Vaccine Given in Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — More than 1 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine have been administered to more than 740,000 people in Wisconsin, the state Department of Health Services reported Wednesday. Gov. Tony Evers praised the milestone, calling it “exciting news” while also urging people to remain vigilant. “While we’re not there yet, 1 million doses means real progress toward…

Minnesota Nears Vaccine Milestone; Walz Readies School Plan

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota is expected to pass a milestone this week by administering its 1 millionth dose of coronavirus vaccine, even though state health officials say severe winter weather in other parts of the country is likely to disrupt supplies. Meanwhile, Gov. Tim Walz plans to lay out a strategy Wednesday afternoon to bring more middle and high school…

Douglas County COVID Cases See a Decline

The Douglas County Department of Health is seeing a decline in cases.

DOUGLAS COUNTY – The Douglas County Department of Health is seeing a decline in cases. Currently, there are 14 active cases in the county. Just two weeks ago, there were more than 40 cases and going back farther to the middle of November, there were more than 400 cases. “As we continue to increase the number of people that are…

Winter Weather Causes Delay in Vaccine Delivery

The winter storms in the southern part of the United States have caused a delay in shipments of COVID-19 vaccines for St. Louis County.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY – St. Louis County’s COVID-19 vaccine shipments are being delayed by the winter storm in the southern U.S. Because of that, three vaccination clinics scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday this week have been canceled. It’s affecting several hundred people who were set to receive their first dose of the Moderna vaccine. Those affected will be notified by…

Minnesota Power Offers Heating Tips During Cold Weather

The chilly air remains in the Northland, and Minnesota Power is offering up some tips to save money while being safe.

DULUTH, Minn. – The chilly air remains in the Northland, and Minnesota Power is offering up some tips to save money while being safe. For instance, every one degree a thermostat is turned down, that can save up to 2% on your energy bill, and if you decide to go to the space heater route to save some money, get…

Local Chapter of Project Linus Gives Blankets to Duluth Fire Department

As these chilly temps continue, one local organization is stepping up to provide some warm forms of comfort to kids experiencing trauma.

DULUTH, Minn. – As these chilly temps continue, one local organization is stepping up to provide some warm forms of comfort to kids experiencing trauma. For kids going through challenging times, a blanket may be the way to bring both comfort and joy to a struggling child. Whether it be at a hospital, a result of a fire, or possibly…

Minnesota Nears Giving 1 Million Coronavirus Vaccine Doses

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota is closing in on the milestone of administering 1 million doses of coronavirus vaccines. According to an update from the Minnesota Department of Health on Tuesday, the state’s health care providers had administered a total of 927,384 vaccine doses as of Sunday. That figure covers 686,210 people who’d had at least their first doses as of…

Indoor Facilities Experience Increase in Patrons Because of Cold Weather, Busy Time of Year

Indoor facilities are experiencing increases in patrons – some having to do with the cold weather while others are simply thriving because it's their busy time of year.

NORTHLAND – Indoor facilities are experiencing increases in patrons – some having to do with the cold weather while others are simply thriving because it’s their busy time of year. While the cold weather may be contributing to an increase in people visiting indoor facilities, some are experiencing a rise in customers because of the nature of their businesses. At…

Car Washes Remain Busy During Cold Snap

While it is cold outside, people are still getting their cars washed at places like Miller Mall Car Wash in Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn. – While it is cold outside, people are still getting their cars washed at places like Miller Mall Car Wash in Duluth. According to management, while there is a slight decrease because of the temperatures, the business services about the same number of cars in the summer as in the winter. During cold weather, they take a lot…

Fuel Spikes Due to Pandemic, Cold Temps

With the cold weather, fuel companies are making sure that people are getting propane and heating oil they need to get through the frigid temperatures.

DULUTH, Minn. – With the cold weather, fuel companies are making sure that people are getting propane and heating oil they need to get through the frigid temperatures. With the combination of COVID and the cold weather, more people are working and playing at home, burning more oil and propane than projected. For instance, there has been a 10 to…

With Cold Temps, Experts Say Watch for Frozen Pipes and Faulty Windows or Doors

During cold weather conditions, it’s important to make sure you’re watching out for things like frozen pipes, and faulty windows or doors.

DULUTH, Minn.- The temps are expected to remain frigid over the coming days, which may have an impact on your home. During cold weather conditions, it’s important to make sure you’re watching out for things like frozen pipes, and faulty windows or doors. Once you discover that your pipes are frozen, be sure to call a plumber as soon as…

County Pop-Up Vaccination Site Aims to Reach Minorities, People of Color Ages 65 and Older

DULUTH, Minn.– As the COVID-19 vaccine continues to rollout, local public health officials and community organizations are trying to get doses out to groups most impacted by the virus. Over 30 shots were given out to those who pre-registered at the pop-up vaccination at St. Mark’s church in the Hillside community on Friday. The goal was to prioritize vaccinations for…

Mont du Lac To Host Annual Ice Cross on Saturday

This Saturday, Mont du Lac will kick off its annual ice cross.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This Saturday, Mont du Lac will kick off its annual ice cross. Ice cross downhill is a winter sport using hockey gear and hockey skates where racers compete by skating downhill. This is the only ice cross race in the U.S., according to Mont Du Lac officials, and will feature men’s, women’s, and junior league races. “It’s…

Bakeries Hope for Busy Valentine’s Day

Bakeries are getting busy for what they hope is a busy Valentine’s Day holiday.

DULUTH, Minn. – Bakeries are getting busy for what they hope is a busy Valentine’s Day holiday. Over at Johnson’s Bakery in Lincoln Park, workers are putting together everything from cookies and cakes to doughnuts, all with Valentine’s theme. While the special day had been busy in the past at the bakery, everything is so different now with COVID because…

Union Gospel Mission Stays Busy During Cold Snap

During this cold snap, many organizations that help the homeless and disadvantaged are seeing an uptick in people using their services.

DULUTH, Minn. – During this cold snap, many organizations that help the homeless and disadvantaged are seeing an uptick in people using their services. Over at the Union Gospel Mission, the organization has seen its numbers grow as more people have been coming in to get hot meals, which are served curbside because of spacing. The mission let go of…

20th Year for Northland’s St. Jude Radiothon Kicks Off

It’s the 20th year of the Northland’s St. Jude Radiothon on B-105.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s the 20th year of the Northland’s St. Jude Radiothon on B-105. The event raises money for children battling cancer at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In 2020, the radiothon raised about $80,000. Organizers say it’s inspiring to see people come together under one cause. “It makes me almost emotional to see everybody like leaning on each…

Boots and Coats: Keep Pets Warm During the Winter

With the cold weather, we should be paying extra attention to making sure our furry friends stay safe.

DULUTH, Minn. – With the cold weather, we should be paying extra attention to making sure our furry friends stay safe. Management at “A Place for Fido” in Duluth says you can put boots on dogs’ feet to keep their paws safe from the elements. Jackets and coats may be more beneficial for short-haired dogs as they need more insulation…

UWS Renovates Parts of Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center

Despite the pandemic, several renovations are now complete at the Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center at UWS.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Despite the pandemic, several renovations are now complete at the Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center at UWS. Some of the renovations include expanding classroom spaces while also moving the previous media lab to a larger area that has more work stations. Another big project they worked on was renovating a highly visible space adjacent to the…

New Legislation to Remove Brewery Growler Cap

A group called the Alliance of Minnesota Craft Breweries introduced new legislation today that would remove Minnesota’s growler cap, a state law that now prohibits bigger breweries from selling their beer in 64 ounce growler containers.

MINNESOTA – A group called the Alliance of Minnesota Craft Breweries introduced new legislation today that would remove Minnesota’s growler cap. A state law that now prohibits bigger breweries from selling their beer in 64 ounce growler containers. That law says Minnesota breweries cannot sell to-go growlers if they make more than 20,000 barrels of beer a year. There are…

Wisconsin Pharmacies Receiving Vaccine Under Federal Program

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Nearly 200 Walgreens pharmacies across Wisconsin are expecting to receive coronavirus vaccines directly from the federal government starting this week. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services on Thursday announced the beginning of the program that targets underserved areas. The state health department says the vaccinations will be provided for free under the state and federal partnership….

Local Gym Finds Pandemic Changes Help Business Flow Better

Over at Impact Sports Training CrossFit gym in Duluth, management says they made a few changes during the pandemic that are now permanent.

DULUTH, Minn. – Over at Impact Sports Training CrossFit gym in Duluth, management says they made a few changes during the pandemic that are now permanent. To keep up with the restrictions on gyms, they dropped the size of classes from 40 people to 22, but then realized that actually makes it easier to coach and give clients more attention….

Health Experts Give Advice for Couples to Stay Safe from COVID-19 During Valentine’s Day

DULUTH, Minn.– Valentine’s Day is just a few days away and health experts are encouraging couples to get creative and find some new ways to celebrate the day and stay six feet apart from other people. Some options include getting take-out, cooking a meal together, or making a playlist together at home. Even though we’re doing better as more vaccines…

Experts Warn Public on How to Stay Safe While Out on the Ice

The risk of falling through the ice or being stranded is something you want to be prepared for before going out ice fishing.

DULUTH, Minn. – 27 ice anglers had to be rescued from Lake Superior in Duluth yesterday. The risk of falling through the ice or being stranded is something you want to be prepared for before going out ice fishing. Waterways like Lake Superior or the St. Louis River can be unpredictable as ice can break off at any time and…

DECC Donates Gallons of Ice Cream to Duluth Fire Department

The Duluth Fire Department received a much-deserved treat today for all they do for the community. The DECC donated 75 gallons of ice cream to the department as part of its “Share the Love” initiative.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Fire Department received a much-deserved treat today for all they do for the community. The DECC donated 75 gallons of ice cream to the department as part of its “Share the Love” initiative. “We appreciate the recognition,” said Jon Otis, the deputy chief at the Duluth Fire Department. “It’s always nice to be recognized for…

First Northland Ronald McDonald House Opens

The first Ronald McDonald House has opened in the Northland after partnering up with Essentia Health.

DULUTH, Minn. – The first Ronald McDonald House has opened in the Northland after partnering up with Essentia Health. A Ronald McDonald House is a place of refuge for families traveling to get the best care for their children battling cancer or other illnesses. The space includes five bedrooms, along with a full kitchen, family room, and stocked pantry. Management…

Warming Center Updates Hours to Accommodate Homeless During Cold Snap

The warming center at the Tri-Towers will be open from 6 p.m. to 10 a.m. through Friday as the chilly temperatures linger in the Northland.

DULUTH, Minn. – The warming center at the Tri-Towers will be open from 6 p.m. to 10 a.m. through Friday as the chilly temperatures linger in the Northland. The center will also be open 24 hours over the weekend. Since the chill hit, there’s been an increase of people using the site of about a dozen. The center has a…

Government Investigating Massive Counterfeit N95 Mask Scam

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal authorities are investigating a massive counterfeit N95 mask operation in which fake 3M masks were sold in at least five states to hospitals, medical facilities, and government agencies. The foreign-made knockoffs are becoming increasingly difficult to spot and could put health care workers at grave risk for the coronavirus. A federal official says these masks are…

Auto Parts Stores Remain Busy During Cold Snap

As the temperatures continue to remain frigid, local auto parts stores have been busy with people coming in to get batteries.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the temperatures continue to remain frigid, local auto parts stores have been busy with people coming in to get batteries. The colder it gets, the less charge is on your battery, which could mean you need a replacement. And if you are not sure if you should be getting a new one, most auto parts stores…

Should you Double Mask? Benefits and Trade-offs to Double Masking

Many may be wondering if they should be double masking, especially with the new COVID variants out there.

DULUTH, Minn. – Many may be wondering if they should be double masking, especially with the new COVID variants out there. According to doctors at Essentia Health, if you wear an N-95 mask, double masking is not necessary. Double masking could come into play when wearing a cloth mask that doesn’t have as many layers of fabric. In that case,…

New Treatment for Those with Mild to Moderate COVID-19

A new treatment for those diagnosed with mild to moderate COVID-19 is being offered at Essentia in Duluth.

NORTHLAND – A new treatment for those diagnosed with mild to moderate COVID-19 is being offered at Essentia in Duluth. The drug being used in this new antibody treatment at Essentia Health is called bamlanivimab, which mimics the immune system’s ability to fight off viruses like COVID. The aim of the treatment is to make sure that people don’t progress…

US Vaccine Drive Complicated by 1st, 2nd Dose Juggling Act

(AP) – The U.S. has entered a tricky phase of the COVID-19 vaccination effort as providers try to ramp up the number of people getting first shots while also ensuring a growing number of others get second doses. The shift is happening just when millions more Americans are becoming eligible to receive vaccines. The need to give each person two…

COVID Community Testing Site to Reopen at UWS on Monday

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Superior’s COVID-19 community testing site will reopen Monday, February 15. “The Wisconsin Department of Health Services completed an assessment of testing facilities statewide,” said Harry Anderson, Dean of Students. “Based on their findings and our proven ability to conduct mass testing in a safe, efficient and friendly environment, DHS requested that we reopen our COVID-19 community testing site. We are honored to continue serving our…

St. Louis County Sees 900 Small Businesses Apply for Phase 3 Grants

The total amount of aid requested comes out to $16.4 million. The county has $3.8 million dollars in grant funding from the state to distribute.

DULUTH, Minn.- 900 businesses in St. Louis County have sought relief through Phase 3 of the county’s small business relief grants. The total amount of aid requested comes out to $16.4 million. The county has $3.8 million dollars in grant funding from the state to distribute. So 200 “first tier” businesses forced to close back in November that received no…

Experts Advise Public to Stay Safe Inside and Outside During Cold Weather

Experts say there are things you can do to stay safe when temperatures drop this far, not only when you are heading outdoors, but also when it comes to making sure you can stay warm inside your home.

NORTHLAND –  Experts say there are things you can do to stay safe when temperatures drop this far, not only when you are heading outdoors, but also when it comes to making sure you can stay warm inside your home. “You’re wearing those layers, you are keeping those areas warm and preventing them from having extended cold exposure,” said Dr….

New Variants Raise Worry About COVID-19 Virus Reinfections

(AP) – Evidence is mounting that having COVID-19 may not protect a person against getting infected again with some of the new variants emerging around the world. New research also suggests that people can get second infections with earlier versions of the coronavirus if they mounted a weak defense the first time. How long immunity lasts from natural infection is…

Minnesota DEED Awards $13 Million in COVID Relief Grants to Theaters, Convention Centers

DULUTH, Minn. – On Monday, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development awarded over $13 million in COVID relief grants to various convention centers and movie theaters across the state. One of the grant recipients listed is the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center which is to be awarded $500,000. The grants include $4.6 million for 15 convention centers and $8.54…

Evers Announces New Vaccine Sites as Doses Increase

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Tony Evers’ administration is partnering with an international health care organization to set up community sites for COVID-19 vaccinations. Evers announced Monday that his administration will work with AMI Expeditionary Healthcare to establish six to 10 community vaccination sites. The first site is slated to open on Feb. 16 in Rock County and will be…

House GOP Calls for Lifting Business Restrictions by May 1

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota House Republicans laid out a roadmap Monday for lifting the state’s coronavirus restrictions on businesses with a goal of letting them return to full operations by May 1. Rep. Dave Baker, of Willmar, said at a news conference that businesses such as restaurants, hotels, event centers, and gyms need to be able to make reopening plans…

Wisconsin Security Guard Punched for Reminding Man To Wear Mask

KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) — A Paddock Lake man is facing charges after he was accused of punching a security guard who reminded him to wear a mask at a Kenosha grocery store. Police recommend the man in his 50s be charged with battery and disorderly conduct. The incident happened Saturday night at Woodman’s Food Market. “Somebody from the store approached…

‘Love Creamery’ Accommodates Customers During Pandemic

Management says they are grateful to the local community for keeping them alive.

DULUTH, Minn. – During the pandemic many businesses have struggled, including Love Creamery in Lincoln Park. Management says they are grateful to the local community for keeping them alive. To accommodate for customers’ needs, Love Creamery developed a more prepackaged take on their products, added a service window to the store to lessen contact with guests, and they even run…

St. Luke’s Needs Volunteers for COVID-19 Study

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s is in need of volunteers to help complete their COVID-19 RECOVER study. Doctors say they want 100 more essential workers, which includes bus drivers, grocery store workers, and bankers. The goal is for people to swab their noses weekly to test for COVID-19 and do the occasional blood test to look for COVID antibodies. “The…

14 Percent of St. Louis County has Received COVID-19 Vaccine as Rollout Continues

DULUTH, Minn.– The vaccination rollout is continuing to push on in St. Louis County. St. Louis County Public Health says the county has vaccinated more than 4,000 people so far. And the additional vaccinations from health care providers and pharmacies have helped bring the total to 27,000. That’s close to 14 percent of the county’s population. Right now, the county…

Hospitals Criticize Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota hospitals are criticizing the state’s coronavirus vaccine distribution system as inequitable, leaving some clinics and hospitals without doses for older, vulnerable patients. The Minnesota Hospital Association, in a letter to state health officials, says some clinics haven’t received vaccine doses in days. In January, the state opened up vaccinations to people 65 and older…