Coronavirus

UWS to Resume Some On-Campus Classes in Fall

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Superior announced Thursday that it is planning to resume some on-campus classes this fall. “The UW-Superior Recovery Team has been hard at work on the plan to bring students and employees back to campus,” said Renée Wachter, UW-Superior chancellor. “It is cautious and phased in its approach. Details of the plan are being finalized…

Minnesota Restaurants Now Able to Seat 50% Capacity Indoors

For about three months, Minnesota restaurants were limited to only offering take out, delivery and curbside options. All of this has changed starting today.

DULUTH, Minn. – For about three months, Minnesota restaurants were limited to only offering take out, delivery and curbside options. All of this has changed starting today. Minnesota restaurants are now able to have 50% capacity indoors. Duluth Grill on 27th Avenue West was bustling today at guests enjoyed meals inside the restaurant. “We’re going to be living in this…

YMCA to Open Next Week

Local Northland organizations continue to prepare to reopen after many of governor's restrictions were lifted today.

DULUTH, Minn. – Local Northland organizations continue to prepare to reopen after many of the governor’s restrictions were lifted today. Leadership from the Duluth Area Family YMCA is opening up its downtown Duluth facility Monday as they work to keep their staff and guests safe. The organization is following strict hand-washing guidelines while also wearing face masks and keeping social…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Wednesday, June 10

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 28,869 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Wednesday morning and 19 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,236 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 369,795 tests have been completed to date. There are 24,675 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,482 patients have required hospitalization…

Lake Superior Zoo Plans ‘A Walk on the Wild Side’ Reopening

Indoor Exhibits Will Remain Closed as the Zoo Takes a Phased Approach to Reopening

DULUTH, Minn. – Under the latest phase of Minnesota’s ‘Stay Safe’ executive order, many public facilitates are allowed to reopen with health restrictions in place. On the list to reopen is the Lake Superior Zoo. Staff is breathing a sigh of relief after losing roughly $500,000 in earned revenue since being forced to close doors almost three months ago. Before…

Small Town Restaurants Ready to Reopen Dine-in Service

Restaurant owners call the shutdown a 'learning experience' but say they're excited to return a little closer to normal

SCANLON, Minn., and ESKO, Minn. – Restaurants across Minnesota can open at 50 percent capacity for dine-in service starting Wednesday, June 10. Local restaurants have been without a big portion of their business during the COVID-19 shutdown. Restaurant owners call it a “learning experience” but say they’re excited to return a little close to normal. “We miss our family, we…

Northland Greenhouse Stays Busy

It has been an exceptionally busy spring for greenhouses.

DULUTH, Minn. – It has been an exceptionally busy spring for greenhouses. The weather has certainly cooperated in the month of May and in the first part of June. Over at Lilac Hill Greenhouse in Hermantown, workers tell us that with the pandemic, people are staying home and not traveling, which means they are working in their yards, beautifying their…

Local Brewery Hosts Soft Opening

Restaurants and bars in Minnesota have been able to have outdoor seating for the past week but tomorrow is the first day customers will also be allowed inside.

DULUTH, Minn. – Restaurants and bars in Minnesota have been able to have outdoor seating for the past week but tomorrow is the first day customers will also be allowed inside. Duluth’s Bent Paddle, in the Lincoln Park Craft District, is having a safe and sanitary soft opening today with an open outdoor patio. All employees are wearing the required…

Glensheen Reopens After Being Closed For Months

More historic sites are opening up to the public in the Northland.

DULUTH, Minn. – More historic sites are opening up to the public in the Northland. Glensheen is now opening its historic grounds to the public after two months of closure. All staff is required to wear masks and disposable masks are available for guests when they come in. Tours are currently not available as today’s grounds opening is part of…

WHO Expert Clarifies Remarks on Virus Spread

GENEVA — A top World Health Organization expert has tried to clear up “misunderstandings” about comments she made that were widely understood to suggest that people without COVID-19 symptoms rarely transmit the coronavirus. Maria Van Kerkhove, the U.N. health agency’s technical lead on the virus pandemic, insisted Tuesday that she was referring only to a few studies, not a complete…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Tuesday, June 9

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 28,523 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Tuesday morning and 20 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,217 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 360,991 tests have been completed to date. There are 24,221 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,441 patients have required hospitalization…

Free Meals Begin for Students

A free breakfast and lunch program kicked off today for Duluth students.

DULUTH, Minn. – A free breakfast and lunch program kicked off today for Duluth students. Students 18 years and younger can pick up free meals during the weekdays. The meals are something simple for them to bring home to heat up, along with the essentials, like a vegetable, fruit and milk. “A lot of parents…aren’t working right now, they haven’t…

Local Non-Profits Lend Helping Hand During Pandemic

Local foundations are doing what they can to support nonprofits during the COVID-19 crisis.

DULUTH, Minn. – Local foundations are doing what they can to support nonprofits during the COVID-19 crisis. The Ordean Foundation has been prioritizing non-profits hat are on the front lines that are working with vulnerable populations on issues including poverty, and basic needs such as food and shelter. “I would encourage folks who have the means that are continuing to…

With Recovery of Last Case, New Zealand has Eradicated Virus

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand appears to have completely eradicated the coronavirus — at least for now — after health officials said Monday the last known infected person had recovered. The announcement was greeted with joy around the country and means the nation of 5 million people will be among the first to welcome throngs of fans back…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Monday, June 8

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 28,224 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Monday morning and 11 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,197 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 354,226 tests have been completed to date. There are 23,657 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,401 patients have required hospitalization…

OMC Smokehouse Expanding into Next-Door Noble Pour; Now Called ‘OMC Whiskey Bar’

A hole in the wall now connects the restaurant to the bar, increasing seating.

DULUTH, Minn.- Governor Walz announcing that bars, restaurants and other business can open at 50% capacity Wednesday is a relief for many restaurant owners. But for one in Lincoln Park, that meant scrapping a newly opened business to give new life to an existing favorite. “We’re kind of calling an audible on every play that we’ve made in the last…

Glensheen Making Plans to Reopen

Some historical sites are getting ready to reopen after being closed for months due to the pandemic.

DULUTH, Minn. – Some historical sites are getting ready to reopen after being closed for months due to the pandemic. Glensheen Mansion does not have an exact date for reopening but they plan on doing it in three phases. The first phase will be the opening up of the grounds only and eventually, the entire mansion will be opened in…

Second Harvest North Central Food Bank Ready to Help Residents in Need

Resources Are Available for All Residents in Itasca County Facing Food Insecurities

ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. -With school out and the coronavirus pandemic continuing to have a lasting impact on communities, health officials in Itasca County want to stress the importance of nutrition and food access services in the region. Second Harvest North Central Food Bank continues to provide food to 130 agencies in the region, from International Falls to Princeton. Research shows…

Percentage of Positive COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin Continues to Drop

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The percentage of positive COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin continues to decline, based on the latest figures reported Friday by the state Department of Health Services. Only 3% of all test results were positive on Friday, continuing a downward trend over the past two weeks. In total, more than 20,200 people have contracted the virus in Wisconsin…

Gov. Walz Gradually Lifts Restrictions on Indoor Dining, Entertainment, Gyms Starting June 10

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Gov. Tim Walz announced on Friday phase 3 of the Stay Safe Plan, which includes gradually loosening restrictions of indoor dining, gyms, and entertainment venues. Starting June 10, limited re-openings will be allowed with occupancy rates limited based on risk. “Thank you, Minnesotans, for the sacrifices you’ve made to slow the spread of COVID-19,” Governor Walz said. “Thanks…

Watch Live: Walz to Announce Next Steps in States Reopening

UPDATE: ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will announce he’s loosening more coronavirus-related restrictions on Minnesota businesses Friday afternoon. Walz will allow restaurant indoor dining, fitness centers, and some entertainment venues to reopen at a limited capacity on June 10, multiple sources said ahead of the governor’s news conference. ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – Minnesota Gov. Tim…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Friday, June 5

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 26,980 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Friday morning and 33 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,148 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 322,340 tests have been completed to date. There are 21,864 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,289 patients have required hospitalization…

Sara’s Table Chester Creek Cafe Opens Patio Seating

Many restaurants across the region have begun outdoor seating per the Minnesota governor's order including at Sara's Table Chester Creek Cafe.

DULUTH, Minn. – Many restaurants across the region have begun outdoor seating per the Minnesota governor’s order including at Sara’s Table Chester Creek Cafe. They have nine booths that can fit four people each along with a couple of tables out front. Owners say it’s a compromise between keeping people safe while having them enjoy their food on the patio….

UWS Offers New Online Programs

While the coronavirus pandemic continues, one local college is offering up more online degrees.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – While the coronavirus pandemic continues, one local college is offering up more online degrees. UWS is providing two new undergraduate programs and master’s programs for this upcoming school year. The undergrad programs will be psychology and computer science while the master’s programs will focus on cybersecurity and school counseling. Officials want to make sure that people will…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Thursday, June 4

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 26,273 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday morning and 29 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,115 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 275,622 tests have been completed to date. There are 21,490 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,253 patients have required hospitalization…

Cloquet 4th of July Festivities Cancelled; Pinehurst Park Pool Closed

CLOQUET, Minn.- Coronavirus continues to claim summer events throughout the Northland. Added to the list: the 4th of July fireworks and parade in Cloquet, along with the city’s Pinehurst Park natural ground pool. City officials decided to cancel the popular Independence Day festivities Tuesday, saying that it would be near impossible to limit the usual crowd of hundreds to whatever…

Protests May Cause Surge in COVID-19

Doctors say that outbreaks are expected even without protesting but there's a chance of the virus making a presence in the community through protesting.

DULUTH, Minn. – Experts say mask-wearing and keeping distance from others seems to be the best way to approach protesting during this pandemic. Doctors say that outbreaks are expected even without protesting. With more crowds of people gathering together, there’s a higher chance of the virus making a presence in the community. “So it’s likely and we are expecting to…

Farmers Market Opens in Superior

A local farmers market is back open in Superior.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A local farmers market is back open in Superior. Superior Downtown Farmer’s Market is now open every Wednesday until the end of October. They have lots of garden plants, peppers, tomatoes, herbs, flowers, and baked goods for everyone to enjoy. Organizers say this year there is a bit of a change because of the pandemic. “This is…

St. Louis County Auditor’s Service Center Opens

The St. Louis County Auditor's Service Center located on the backside of Miller Hill Mall has been quite busy since reopening this week.

DULUTH, Minn. – The St. Louis County Auditor’s Service Center located on the backside of Miller Hill Mall has been quite busy since reopening this week. Right now, they are only allowing six people into the building at a time, making for a long line for those needing driver’s license renewals, tabs, or even paying your property taxes. “We have…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Wednesday, June 3

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 25,870 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Wednesday morning and 14 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,086 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 265,718 tests have been completed to date. There are 21,169 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,203 patients have required hospitalization…

New LED Sign Celebrates Denfeld Graduates

Some local seniors at Denfeld High School are being recognized by their old elementary school.

DULUTH, Minn. – Some local seniors at Denfeld High School are being recognized by their old elementary school. Those who went to Stowe Elementary and are now graduating have their names and pictures being displayed on an LED sign on Commonwealth Avenue as a way to honor and celebrate them. Organizers say that this year has been really tough on…

Outdoor Seating Available at Duluth Cider

With bars and restaurants being allowed to open using outdoor seating, some are expanding their patios like Duluth Cider in Lincoln Park.

DULUTH, Minn. – With bars and restaurants being allowed to open using outdoor seating, some are expanding their patios like Duluth Cider in Lincoln Park. That business already has a smaller patio, but now they’ve built it to fit 50 guests in a seating area that’s comfortable. One of the owners told us that it’s nice to be open again…

Tattoo Parlors Open for Business

Owners of Anchors End Tattoo in downtown Duluth say that it's exciting to finally open up the shop to the public.

DULUTH, Minn. – Owners of Anchors End Tattoo in downtown Duluth say that it’s exciting to finally open up the shop to the public. “We want to work,” said Joseph John, the owner of Anchors End Tattoo. “We don’t want an industry to shut right back down again so we’re just going to take every precaution. We want our clients…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Tuesday, June 2

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 25,508 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Tuesday morning and 22 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,072 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 258,747 tests have been completed to date. There are 20,381 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,134 patients have required hospitalization…

A & Dubs Opens For Summer in West Duluth After COVID Delay

Customers excited to eat outside the neighborhood favorite again.

DULUTH, Minn.- A & Dubs, the drive in burger spot in West Duluth, opened to a parking lot full of excited customers Monday. A & Dubs normally opens the day after Mother’s Day but they delayed resuming business due to the Coronavirus. Customers said they were anxious to get back to the neighborhood staple they grew up with. “It’s just…

Hair and Nail Salons Open to the Public

Hair and nail salons across the area are starting to breathe a sigh of relief as they are allowed to open again.

DULUTH, Minn. – Hair and nail salons across the area are starting to breathe a sigh of relief as they are allowed to open again. At VP Nails & Hair and Duo Tones Salons in Duluth, the owners are excited to open up to the public. Those at VP Nails & Hair say the stream of customers has been steady…

Whitmer Lifts Michigan Stay-At-Home Order, Keeps Some Places Closed

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer lifted Michigan’s nearly 10-week coronavirus stay-at-home order Monday, letting restaurants reopen to dine-in customers next week and immediately easing limits on outdoor gatherings while keeping social-distancing rules intact. The governor moved regions comprising 93% of the state’s population to phase 4 — “improving” — two weeks after she announced that northern Michigan could…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Monday, June 1

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 25,208 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Monday morning and 10 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,050 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 255,592 tests have been completed to date. There are 19,441 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,086 patients have required hospitalization…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Sunday, May 31

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 24,850 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Sunday morning and 14 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,040 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 249,519 tests have been completed to date. There are 18,695 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,047 patients have required hospitalization…

COVID-19 Update: 53 Cases, 9 Deaths Reported in Itasca County

Health Professionals Advise Residents to Maintain a Healthy Diet, Exercise Routine

ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. – As of Friday Itasca County Public Health Officials confirm 53 positive COVID-19 cases within the county. The youngest case is reported in an elementary aged individual. The county also reports a total of nine deaths related to coronavirus. Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital has tested over 1,000 residents for COVID-19. This comes as health professionals continue…

Families Enjoy Weather at Local Parks

Duluth Parks were busy today as families came out to enjoy the nice weather.

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth parks were busy today as families came out to enjoy the nice weather. Some were over at Enger Park where they went on a hike as they took a break from staying indoors. One family we spoke to says it’s also about getting a nice workout in while getting some vitamin D. “For both for mental…

Salons Prepare to Reopen

Minnesota salons now have the Governor’s ok to reopen with reduced capacity starting Monday after being shut down since March because of the pandemic.

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota salons now have the Governor’s ok to reopen with reduced capacity starting Monday after being shut down since March because of the pandemic. Leanaya Miller manages Rue 48 salon on South Lake Avenue in Canal Park. She’s busy getting the business ready to reopen next Wednesday and is definitely ready to see customers again. “Excited…talked to…

Zenith Bookstore Opens Virtually for Customers

The Zenith Bookstore is now open virtually to the public.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Zenith Bookstore in West Duluth is now open virtually to the public while keeping their brick and mortar store closed despite being able to. Management says it’s all about keeping the public safe as they try and keep their loyal customer base happy. “We feel a strong sense of responsibility to our community and to our…

US Cuts World Health Organization Ties Over Virus Response

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Friday that the U.S. will be terminating its relationship with the World Health Organization, saying it had failed to adequately respond to the coronavirus because China has “total control” over the global organization. He said Chinese officials “ignored” their reporting obligations to the WHO and pressured the WHO to mislead…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Friday, May 29

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 23,531 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Friday morning and 29 new deaths bringing the death total to 996 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 233,873 tests have been completed to date. There are 16,930 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 2,936 patients have required hospitalization…

Duluth-Superior Pride Plans To Hold First-Ever Virtual Pride Festival Amid Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth-Superior Pride Committee is looking for feedback for a first-ever virtual pride festival this Labor Day weekend because of COVID-19 concerns. For the past 32 years, the four-day festival has attracted thousands of people to the Twin Ports from across the region to celebrate LGBTQ+ community, equality and promote a safe and fun weekend for all…

Grant Recipients Receive $1.1 million for COVID-19 Relief

More than 60 recipients are getting checks from a variety of foundations to help them through this COVID-19 crisis.

DULUTH, Minn. – More than 60 recipients are getting checks from a variety of foundations to help them through this COVID-19 crisis. Organizers, which include those from the Northland – Ordean, Lloyd K. Johnson, Duluth Superior Area Community Foundations, along with United Way – focused on multiple areas of need with their main goal of helping vulnerable individuals. Funding will…

Northland Goodwill Open and Operating

Northland Goodwill is now open.

DULUTH, Minn. – Northland Goodwill is now open. So far, they have recalled about a quarter of their employees after laying off about 300. The business is now taking a phased approach in terms of calling people back to work after being closed for two months. “We need peoples’ donations more than ever,” said Scott Vezina, the communications and training…