Coronavirus

UWS Preps for Fall Semester

We are just weeks away from students returning for in-person classes around the Northland and today, we caught up with one university that has introduced some new protocols to keep students safe.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – We are just weeks away from students returning for in-person classes around the Northland and today, we caught up with one university that has introduced some new protocols to keep students safe. UWS has integrated safety and distancing measures throughout its school facilities to help ensure a safe and secure educational experience for both the staff and…

Minnesota Renaissance Festival Canceled Due to COVID-19

(Facebook/MN Renaissance Festival) SHAKOPEE, Minn. – The Minnesota Renaissance Festival has been canceled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Festival organizers made the announcement Wednesday on their Facebook page saying, “We worked hard the last five months to develop a plan and mitigation measures which we firmly believe would have resulted in a safe and healthy Renaissance Festival. However,…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Wednesday, August 19

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 66,618 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Wednesday morning and 17 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,738 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,308,264 tests have been completed to date. There are 60,242 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,988 patients have required hospitalization…

Bike Shops Experience Shortages

Bike shops throughout the country are experiencing a shortage in supply because of the high demand due to the pandemic.

DULUTH, Minn. – Bike shops throughout the country are experiencing a shortage in supply because of the high demand due to the pandemic. One local bike shop says that sales have been fairly flat compared to last year largely due to the fact that they can’t get bikes. Stewart’s Bikes, Sports and Trophies in Duluth says that they haven’t been…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Tuesday, August 18

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 66,061 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Tuesday morning and 9 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,721 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,273,397 tests have been completed to date. There are 59,568 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,932 patients have required hospitalization…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Monday, August 17

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 65,716 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Monday morning and 6 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,712 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,266,561 tests have been completed to date. There are 58,859 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,886 patients have required hospitalization…

DECC Chef Brings Barbecue to Hillside with Pop-Up ‘Howard’s Q’ to Stay Afloat Without Work

Howard's Q is serving fresh ribs, rib tips, Jerk Chicken and more right next to the Shanty Bottle Shop on 4th Street on weekends. 

DULUTH, Minn.- A local cook is bringing barbecue to the East Hillside Neighborhood in Duluth while making the most of being out of work during the pandemic. Howard’s Q is serving fresh ribs, rib tips, Jerk Chicken and more right next to the Shanty Bottle Shop on 4th Street on weekends. The cook, Howard Ross, was a Sous Chef at…

Porchfest Kicks Off in Superior

Northland musicians played outside today at a unique event that even the pandemic couldn't stop.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Northland musicians played outside today at a unique event that even the pandemic couldn’t stop. Strums, plucks and head bops. Handfuls of musicians gathered outside group homes on Saturday to play for residents inside. The event, called Porchfest, the first of its kind, might have changed because of COVID-19, but it didn’t take away from the spirit…

Yard Sale Fundraiser for Montessori School of Duluth

One local school is hosting a yard sale to help raise money for different items.

DULUTH, Minn. – One local school is hosting a yard sale to help raise money for different items. The Montessori School of Duluth was given donations by families at the school for the sale. All the proceeds are going to the school including supplies and new things like playground equipment. Leadership from the school says neither the pandemic nor the…

Blood Drive Tests for COVID-19 Antibodies

The American Red Cross is encouraging those in the community to give blood, especially during these times.

DULUTH, Minn. – The American Red Cross is encouraging those in the community to give blood, especially during these times. One blood drive located inside of the Miller Hill Mall had several participants donating blood. The Red Cross blood participants are being tested for COVID-19 antibodies in their bloodstream. One donor we talked to said she’s just happy to give…

Remaining 2020 Duluth City Council Meetings to be Held Virtually

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth City Council announced on Friday that all remaining City Council meetings in 2020 will be held virtually. “This decision was made with all of my Council colleagues,” Council President Gary Anderson said. “As leaders, the Council wants to set a good example for our community. To continue to hold our meetings virtually, we feel is…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Friday, August 14

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 63,723 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Friday morning and 8 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,693 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,219,816 tests have been completed to date. There are 56,659 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,783 patients have required hospitalization…

Wrenshall Builds Outdoor Classes

The pandemic has brought about many changes at Northland schools. COVID-19 even jumpstarted one particular school's efforts to build outdoor classrooms. 

WRENSHALL, Minn. – The pandemic has brought about many changes at Northland schools. COVID-19 even jumpstarted one particular school’s efforts to build outdoor classrooms. In the past, Wrenshall’s school forest area was used primarily for play and for building forts. But this year, teachers and other leaders from the school are clearing the area for classroom space. Staff members have…

Lake County Encourages Mask Wearing

One Northland county is encouraging locals to wear masks by offering up a challenge.

LAKE COUNTY – One Northland county is encouraging locals to wear masks by offering up a challenge. Lake County is hosting “We Care, Lake County Mask Up.” Residents are encouraged to submit videos of themselves that are 30 seconds or less with a story of how and why you care to wear a mask. The compilation of videos will be…

Deep Cuts Preparing to Open

A new barbershop is preparing to open in Duluth on Woodland Avenue.

DULUTH, Minn. – A new barbershop is preparing to open in Duluth on Woodland Avenue. The barbershop will be available for short clipper cuts, fades, beard trips, shampoos, and even shoe shines. One unique thing about the barbershop is that it will be open on Saturdays. “It’s really exciting,” said Brandon Golding, the owner of the barbershop. “It’s kind of…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Thursday, August 13

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 62,993 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday morning and 7 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,685 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,203,559 tests have been completed to date. There are 56,346 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,742 patients have required hospitalization…

New Scenic Cafe Hitting the Road with ‘Scenic 61’ Food Truck

Restaurant owner adds food truck to methods of staying afloat while dine-in restaurant remains closed.

DULUTH, Minn.- After months shut down due to the pandemic, food is available at New Scenic Cafe on Highway 61 again — this time on wheels, as the Scenic 61 food truck opened Wednesday. Originally set up to carry food down to the now canceled Minnesota State Fair, Scenic 61 is now carrying the business through the summer as its…

African Heritage Commissioners Needed

The City of Duluth is looking for people to serve on the Duluth African Heritage Commission.

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth is looking for people to serve on the Duluth African Heritage Commission. The commission will help educate those who are people of color, but they will also look at housing and work on having equitable transportation or those who need it. Leaders say because black indigenous people of color face more inequalities and…

St. Louis County Approves Plan To Distribute CARES Act Funding

St. Louis County has approved a plan to distribute $24.5 million in federal coronavirus aid funding, also known as the CARES Act.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY – St. Louis County has approved a plan to distribute $24.5 million in federal coronavirus aid funding, also known as the CARES Act. The goal is to give out the funds to help people and businesses that were impacted by the pandemic. The funding’s purpose is to provide assistance to organizations that support individuals in the community…

New Dance Studio Opens

Despite the pandemic, a new dance studio has opened on Grand Ave.

DULUTH, Minn. – Despite the pandemic, a new dance studio has opened on Grand Ave. 218 Dance Project is a full-serve dance studio that provides classes at the recreational and competitive levels. One of the owners tells us this new business is a dream come true and they expect to be very busy for years to come. “We are beside…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Wednesday, August 12

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 62,303 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Wednesday morning and 12 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,678 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,188,288 tests have been completed to date. There are 55,855 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,711 patients have required hospitalization…

Who: Avoid Dental Cleanings and Other Routine Visits to the Dentist for Now

NEW YORK (FOX 9) – You should delay your routine dental cleaning until the coronavirus pandemic eases, according to new guidance from the World Health Organization. Dentists, hygienists, and other oral care providers have a heightened risk of contracting COVID-19 and passing it to patients because “they are in close contact with their patients’ mouths, use spray-generating equipment that produces airborne particles,…

Proctor Golf Course Clubhouse Temporarily Closed After Employee Tests Positive for COVID

PROCTOR, Minn. – The Proctor Golf Course has temporarily closed its clubhouse after an employee tested positive for COVID-19. The golf course made the announcement on its Facebook page Wednesday morning saying that the employee worked on August 5 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. According to the post, the employee was asymptomatic and is “doing well.” Check-ins will be…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Tuesday, August 11

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 61,839 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Tuesday morning and 6 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,666 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,177,935 tests have been completed to date. There are 55,151 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,661 patients have required hospitalization…

Safety Protocols Put In Place For Primary Elections

DULUTH, Minn. – In the midst of the uncertain times of the pandemic, the primary elections in Minnesota and Wisconsin must carry on. On Tuesday, voters will be heading to the polls for these elections. Duluth city officials are spreading the word on what to look out for as this year’s primary might look a little different. The city has…

Duluth Fall Wedding Show Postponed due to COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lundeen Group announced on Monday afternoon that the Duluth Fall Wedding Show has been postponed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The show, originally scheduled to take place on September 20, has now been moved to September 19, 2021. “We have reviewed the latest State of Minnesota guidelines regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and, as it stands…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Monday, August 10

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 61,516 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Monday morning and 3 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,660 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,172,118 tests have been completed to date. There are 54,364 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,606 patients have required hospitalization…

Growing Interest in Onewheel as Outdoor Entertainment

One form of outdoor entertainment is gaining traction in the Northland.

DULUTH, Minn. – One form of outdoor entertainment is gaining traction in the Northland. The Onewheel is a skateboard with a tire in the middle and is motorized with a controller. The device is slowly growing in popularity and there are about 15 to 20 Onewheelers in the area. To operate, the Onewheel has a sensor at the front and…

Zoo Partners with Food Truck

The zoo is partnering with a local business to serve those in the community with food.

DULUTH, Minn. – The zoo is partnering with a local business to serve those in the community with food. The Lake Superior Zoo is hosting Food Truck Fridays, where every Friday during the month of August, guests can get grub from Valentini’s, whose food truck will be located in the zoo’s parking lot. At the food truck, you can get…

Stuff the Bus Campaign Gives Back

Many Northland fundraising events have changed their usual protocols during the pandemic.

NORTHLAND – Many Northland fundraising events have changed their usual protocols during the pandemic. Like in years past, Head of the Lakes United Way is still collecting school supplies for students in need. But this year, things are a bit different because of the pandemic. Head of the Lakes United Way now has a method for people to give both…

Essentia Health Center for Personal Fitness to Require Masks Full-Time

(courtesy: Essentia Health) DULUTH, Minn. – Effective Saturday Essentia Health will begin requiring masks at the Center for Personal Fitness at the Miller Hill Health Plaza. Essentia says they will require masks to be worn by members and staff at all times at the facility. “Two of the most effective ways of keeping people healthy are to wear masks and…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Friday, August 7

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 59,185 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Friday morning and 4 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,640 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,121,299 tests have been completed to date. There are 51,940 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,458 patients have required hospitalization…

30 Family Members in Minnesota Contract COVID-19 Following Funeral

LAKE PARK, Minn. (AP) — Thirty grieving members of a family in a small northwestern Minnesota town have contracted the coronavirus after attending a funeral for a loved one. The family of 78-year-old Francis Perreault gathered at the Catholic church in the Becker County community of Lake Park in mid-July to celebrate his life. Yet despite wearing masks and taking…

Coronavirus Aid Talks on Brink of Collapse, Sides Still ‘Far Apart’

WASHINGTON (AP) — Washington talks on vital COVID-19 rescue money are teetering on the brink of collapse after a marathon meeting in the Capitol generated lots of recriminations but little progress on the top issues confronting negotiators. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin says: “There’s a handful of very big issues that we are still very far apart” on. Mnuchin says there…

Unique Therapy for PTSD Comes to Northland

A unique type of therapy has made its way to the Twin Ports for the first time.

DULUTH, Minn. – A unique type of therapy has made its way to the Twin Ports for the first time. This week, a workshop is being held in Duluth training therapists on accelerated resolution therapy, also known as ART, which helps resolve traumatic memories with a combination of eye movements and memory visualization. Essentially, it helps the brain rearrange traumatic…

St. Louis County Adds New COVID-19 Cases Faster Than Any Other County In The State

We are seeing almost 40% reporting to have visited restaurants and bars," said Amy Westbrook, public health director for St. Louis County.

DULUTH, Minn.- St. Louis County has added new Coronavirus cases faster than any other county in the state by reaching nearly 500 total. Initially, the county had a pretty low rate of COVID-19 cases at the start of the pandemic. Most cases were found in long term facilities. Now the numbers are growing as a result of community transmission. County…

Segways Provide Unique Experience for Locals and Visitors

Whether it's driving, biking or walking, there are many ways to experience the views the Northland has to offer in a socially-distanced way. But one local business continues to use a unique travel device to get tourists around the area.

DULUTH, Minn. – Whether it’s driving, biking, or walking, there are many ways to experience the views the Northland has to offer in a socially-distanced way. But one local business continues to use a unique travel device to get tourists around the area. Even during COVID-19, one local business is providing a unique way to explore the area on Segways….

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Thursday, August 6

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 58,640 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday morning and 7 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,636 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,105,094 tests have been completed to date. There are 51,604 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,421 patients have required hospitalization…

Wisconsin Water Park Closes for Season After COVID Confirmed

LAKE DELTON, Wis. (AP) — A popular Wisconsin Dells attraction will remain closed for the rest of the season after two employees tested positive for the coronavirus. Noah’s Ark Waterpark announced Wednesday that it has decided to keep the park closed for the rest of the 2020 season. Noah’s Ark says the health of its guests, employees, and the Wisconsin Dells community…

St. Louis County Fastest Growing County for Coronavirus Cases

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) — St. Louis County in northeastern Minnesota this week has added new coronavirus cases faster than any other county in the state, according to health officials. Of the 475 cases in St. Louis County as of Wednesday, more than half were confirmed in July. The virus has been detected throughout the state’s geographically largest county, but about…

Essentia Health Bills Approximately 1,000 Uninsured Patients For COVID-19 Tests

DULUTH, Minn. — A representative with Essentia Health in Duluth has admitted that the health care provider charged approximately 1,000 uninsured patients for COVID-19 tests, which are free under the federal CARES Act. The issue came to light after one patient told FOX21 he received a $171 bill for his COVID-19 test in July. That patient, Superior resident Nick Dalbec,…

Denfeld Class of 2020 Celebrates Graduation Together

Class had fun and said goodbyes at grad party at Mont du Lac Resort

SUPERIOR, Wis. – After a graduation that didn’t feel like the real thing by any means because of the pandemic, the Duluth Denfeld Class of 2020 figured out a way to celebrate together. Denfeld graduation usually includes hundreds of people gathered in the auditorium cheering on the new grads. This year’s commencement was a lot different because of COVID-19, but…

Thousands of Masks Handed Out to Area Businesses

The Hermantown Chamber of Commerce handed out more than 20,000 masks to area businesses.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Hermantown Chamber of Commerce handed out more than 20,000 masks to area businesses. The goal of the event is to make sure every business along with their customers have a mask if they need them. The Chamber of Commerce expected about 200 businesses to come through for the event. “We want everybody to be safe and…

New Beer Garden Opens

One local brewery has opened its own outdoor beer garden.

DULUTH, Minn. – One local brewery has opened its own outdoor beer garden. Over at Bent Paddle in the Lincoln Park Craft District, the staff has put together tables and chairs outside where their guests can sip on some cold brews while staying socially distanced from other groups. Leadership from the business say their main goal is to keep people…

Real Estate Market Doing Well During Pandemic

The combination of a lack of inventory along with low interest rates has caused the local real estate market to reach new heights.

DULUTH, Minn. – The combination of a lack of inventory along with low interest rates has caused the local real estate market to reach new heights. One local real estate expert says some people just want to get away from the cramped larger cities where there’s bigger prevalence of the coronavirus. “We’re seeing more people wanting to come to this…

Moderna Details Coronavirus Vaccine Pricing as Orders Roll in

(Fox Business) – Moderna’s customers are lining up to order its coronavirus vaccine even though it’s still in the experimental state. “We have received approximately $400 million of customer deposits for potential supply. As we pivot to a commercial-stage company, we recognize the need for responsible pricing in the face of the pandemic,” CEP Stéphane Bancel said in the company’s earnings release. Pricing for smaller…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Wednesday, August 5

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 57,779 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Wednesday morning and 9 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,629 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 1,090,303 tests have been completed to date. There are 51,223 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 5,373 patients have required hospitalization…

Goodwill in Superior Closed Temporarily due to Employee Testing Positive for Coronavirus

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Superior Goodwill location announced on Wednesday that it will be temporarily closed due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19. The store says employees may have been exposed to the virus and are being required to self-quarantine for the recommended 14 days. Due to the temporary closure, the store says it will not be accepting donations…

Duluth Grill Temporarily Closes due to Employee Testing Positive for COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Grill announced on Tuesday that it will be closing temporarily due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19. The restaurant made the announcement on its Facebook page saying the employee worked in the ‘back of house’ and had little to no contact with guests. Duluth Grill says the staff member has not worked at the restaurant…