Minnesota

Gov. Walz to Self-Quarantine After Learning Bodyguard has Coronavirus

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will self-quarantine and work from home for 14 days after a member of his security detail tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday. “Though I’m feeling healthy and not showing any symptoms, I’m going to work from home and model the protocol we are asking all Minnesotans to follow,” Walz…

Klobuchar’s Husband Tests Positive for Virus

WASHINGTON — Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar says husband John Bessler has tested positive for the coronavirus. The former presidential candidate said Bessler began feeling sick when she was in Minnesota and he was in Washington. She said he immediately quarantined himself. She said he sought a test and chest X-ray after he began coughing up blood, and was checked into…

DTA Announces Rear-Door Only Boarding

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Transit Authority announced on Sunday that they will be implementing a rear-door only boarding policy.  The new policy will be in effect until further notice.  “The DTA has made sever significant changes to our system in response to this community health challenge – this latest approach puts a focus on limiting our potential driver exposure…

Duluth Fitness Studios Pivot to Online Platforms to Try to Stay Afloat

DULUTH, Minn. — Fitness and wellness businesses in Duluth are fighting to keep revenue going as they have had to shut their doors to clients amid the coronavirus pandemic. Two of the businesses we spoke with are Movo Studio and Runa Yoga. Jessica Rossing, owner of Movo Studio, opened her business in its new home on East First Street just…

Cass County Sees Its First Case of Coronavirus

CASS COUNTY, Minn. – A coronavirus case has been confirmed in Cass County by the Minnesota Department of Health. The patient is older, and hadn’t traveled recently. They developed symptoms on March 9th, but did not seek treatment for their health until one week later, on the 16th. St. Louis County, Douglas County, and Bayfield County have each seen one…

St. Louis County Officials Confirm First Coronavirus Case in the County

Officials said it is a woman in her late 60s, who contracted the virus via domestic travel.

DULUTH, Minn.- Officials have announced the first confirmed COVID-19 case in St. Louis County. Along with one in Bayfield County and one in Douglas County, the total cases in the Northland are now three. According to County officials, the patient in St. Louis County has not had contact with anyone outside her close relatives and is recovering at home. “While…

First COVID-19 Death Confirmed in Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The Minnesota Department of Health has confirmed the state’s first death due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. Officials say a Ramsey County resident in their 80s died on Thursday. Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm said the death underscores the importance of protecting the most vulnerable residents in the state, especially those over 65…

Duluth Fire Department Prepares Amid Coronavirus

DULUTH, Minn.- During the Coronavirus Pandemic, Duluth Fire Department has been in contact with St. Louis County Emergency Management and Homeland Security to prepare for COVID-19. The Fire Department tells us calls will proceed with more caution than ever before, allowing them to get as much information as possible during a call to best use their limited number of resources….

Gov. Walz Signs Executive Order Facilitating Delivery of Personal Protective Equipment

Executive order authorizes the Minnesota National Guard to provide assistance during COVID-19 pandemic

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has signed an executive order authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Governor’s office, the Minnesota National Guard’s initial mission is to transport personal protective equipment (PPE) in storage at Camp Ripley to the Minnesota Department of Health warehouse in St. Paul. The National…

Minnesota Small Businesses Eligible for Disaster Assistance

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announced Saturday that small businesses in the state are now eligible for disaster assistance through the Small Business Administration (SBA) for economic injury during the COVID-19 pandemic. “COVID-19 is placing significant economic strains and unforeseen hardships on our business community,” said Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Steve Grove. “The Governor’s…

Health Officials Confirm First Case of Coronavirus in St. Louis County

Woman in her late 60s contracted the virus, linked to domestic travel. She hasn't had contact with anyone outside her family.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn.- The Minnesota Department of Health has confirmed the first case of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in St. Louis County. The individual is a woman in her late 60s who is currently recovering at home. Her infection is linked to domestic travel, and not the result of community transmission. “At this point, there has been no request for the…

Lake Superior Railroad Museum Creates New Experience for Train Lovers During Covid-19 Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – You may not be able to visit the Lake Superior Railroad Museum in Duluth right now since it is closed during the Coronavirus pandemic. But now the museum can come to you. The organization will be offering daily video tours of the museum and the St.Louis County Depot. Viewers will get a behind-the-scenes look into spaces and…

The College Of St. Scholastica Students React To Covid-19 Precautions

"It's interesting for sure. It's kind of weird to have our freshman year end like this," said CSS student Matthew Clarke.

DULUTH, Minn. – The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth has moved all classes online for the rest of the spring semester. The college also canceled graduation as a result of Covid-19. Students also returned to campus on Friday to get their belongings from the residential halls. Many students say finishing the semester doing online classes and leaving behind their…

Psychology Expert Speaks On Mental Impacts Of Covid-19

"It's really important people understand we have the ability to cope," said Licensed Psychologist Michaela Merrill Mayfield.

DULUTH, Minn. – The changes in lifestyle recommended to help stop the spread of Covid-19 can be mentally draining for many people. Psychology experts say the pandemic is causing uncertainty and that can cause anxiety for many. This may lead to feelings of anger, frustration, and panic. Experts say a helpful tip to get everyone through the difficult time is…

Three Finalists Picked for Duluth School District Superintendent Position

DULUTH, Minn. – Three finalists have been chosen by the Duluth School Board to move forward with interviews to fill the superintendent position.  Those finalists are Michael Funk, Ph.D., the superintendent of Albert Lea Area Schools in Albert Lea, John Magas, the associate superintendent of continuous improvement at the Green Bay Area Public Schools in Green Bay, and Ron Wagner,…

Lakewalk Surgery Center to Suspend All Elective Surgeries

    DULUTH, Minn. – The Lakewalk Surgery Center says they will be suspending all elective surgeries following an executive order signed by Governor Walz on Thursday.  The surgery center will remain open for patients who have urgent surgical needs.  Lakewalk says they will assist local hospitals by taking on more urgent surgical cases if it becomes necessary.  “Lakewalk also…

Walz: Minnesotans May Need to Shelter in Place Eventually

On Friday the Number of Confirmed Cases Hit 115

(AP Photo/Jim Mone) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz said Friday that he might have to follow California’s lead at some point and order residents to shelter in place to try to slow the spread of COVID-19. “I certainly think it is a possibility,” Walz said in an interview on WCCO Radio on Friday morning, adding that outside experts and…

Minnesota Board of Dentistry Recommends Only Emergency Procedures Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Dr. Daniel Loban of Loban Dental Speaks Out About the Order from the Minnesota Board of Dentistry

DULUTH, Minn. – Dr. Daniel Loban, the owner of Loban Dental, is speaking out regarding the closure of dental offices unless procedures are for emergency purposes. “I can tell you my propensity is to help people and putting myself at home and understanding how serious this is kind of draws a line in the sand so I can be a…

DECC: All Shows, Events, Conventions Canceled Until End of April

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center announced on Friday that all shows, conventions, and other events have been postponed or canceled until at least April 30.  DECC officials say that the parking ramps and lots will remain open during this time.  “Right now, the focus of the DECC board and staff are solely on everyone’s health and safety,” said…

Ursa Minor Brewing Getting Creative Throughout COVID-19 Pandemic

"We want to keep as many employees working as possible," said Ben Hugus, owner of Ursa Minor Brewing in the Lincoln Park Craft District

DULUTH, Minn. – Staff members at Ursa Minor Brewing in Duluth’s Lincoln Park Craft Distract are doing their part to practice social distancing, while also keeping the lights on inside the facility. The brewery is offering a new beer delivery service as of Thursday, March 19. A valid ID is required at the time of delivery that must match the…

Kohl’s Temporarily Closes all 1,100 Stores

The Stores Will Be Closed Until at Least April 1

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Wisconsin-based retailer Kohl’s Corp. is closing all of its more than 1,100 stores nationwide in response to declining sales tied to the coronavirus pandemic. Kohl’s said the stores will be closed at least until April 1. The company planned to “support store associates with two calendar weeks of pay,” said Michelle Gass, Kohl’s chief executive officer in a…

Man Shaves Beard To Help Fight Coronavirus Spread

DULUTH, Minn. – David Uselman is well known at the Bayshore Health Center for his beard. Now he’s shaving it off to help fend off the virus. The move comes amid a list of new protocols. With wearing a mask essential to hospital workers during these times, shaving his beard will allow for the mask to have a direct connection…

Worried Donations Will Drop, Northland Non-profits Band Together to Stay Afloat

DULUTH, Minn. – Five Northland non-profit organizations, including the Northland Foundation and the Head of the Lakes United Way, are collaborating to help support their community efforts during this coronavirus outbreak. The organizations have now created the Covid-19 Response Fund to help raise money to get them through this period of time. Most fundraisers have been canceled as large groups…

City Officials Remind Residents To Only Call 911 For Emergencies During Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – Emergency services in Duluth are beginning to prioritize emergency calls based on the most immediate need during the coronavirus pandemic. Officials are now asking the public to think before they call 911. The Duluth Fire Department tell us there has been a surge in calls from people with questions about the coronavirus. They are asking even if…

Unemployment Encouraged After Many Workers Lose Jobs As A Result Of Covid-19

Applicants could receive their unemployment benefits within a week.

DULUTH, Minn. – Many workers across the nation have lost their jobs as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. The City of Duluth is now encouraging people to apply for unemployment to help with their financial difficulties. CareerForce, which is part of the City of Duluth’s Workforce Development Department, has been seen an increase in calls from people hoping to…

Minnesota Bans Elective Surgeries in Response to COVID-19

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota health care providers must postpone elective surgeries and other medical procedures so they can focus their resources on responding to the anticipated surge of COVID-19 cases, Gov. Tim Walz ordered Thursday. The order, which also applies to non-emergency dental procedures, followed guidance issued by the federal government this week to delay elective procedures to conserve resources…

City of Duluth Holds Press Conference With Community Partners Regarding COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth is holding a 10:00 a.m. press conference with community leaders to update the public regarding COVID-19. This press conference will be closed to the public due to social distancing. Speakers:  Mayor Emily Larson Congressman Pete Stauber Shawn Krizaj, Duluth Fire Chief & Emergency Management Manager Elena Foshay, City of Duluth Workforce Development Director…

Courts Suspend Late Penalties, Collections Referrals and Drivers License Suspensions in Minnesota

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – The Minnesota Judicial Branch has temporarily suspended late penalties, collections referrals, and drivers’ license suspensions to help keep Minnesotans out of courthouses. Supreme Court Justice Lorie S. Gildea issued the order Friday in an effort to reduce in-person traffic at courthouses. The suspension will last for the next 30 days. “We are committed to…

Students Receive Free Breakfast And Lunch During Coronavirus Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn.- With all Minnesota schools being required to close its doors during Coronavirus pandemic, the Duluth Public School district is making sure students are continuing to be fed by giving out free breakfast and lunch. Starting Wednesday until May 4 any student 18 or younger from any school in Duluth can grab one of the to-go meals. Bagged breakfast…

Salons, Spas in Minnesota Ordered to Close Through March 27

Owners of Local Salons Speak Out Regarding the Impact of Business Closures

DULUTH, Minn. – If you get your hair cut in Minnesota, you won’t be able to anymore – at least until March 27 at 5:00 p.m. Affective Tuesday, March 17 at 5:00 p.m., under orders from Governor Tim Walz, hair and nail salons as well as spas have been ordered to close due to concerns over COVID-19. This news is…

CHUM Food Shelf Offering To-Go Meal Boxes

The food shelf was helped by a big donation from the Rosary School.

DULUTH, Minn.- CHUM Food Shelf at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in West Duluth is not letting the Coronavirus stop them from getting food to those in need. The food shelf is offering 20 to-go box meals everyday from 11-1:45 out of the West alley door. CHUM also received a large donation from the Holy Rosary School of 351 pints of…

Ruby’s Pantry Hosting Drive-Thru Service this Month

For this month, Ruby's will be operating outside the church in the parking lot with drive-thru service.

DULUTH, Minn. – Ruby’s Pantry is not stopping its food distribution on Thursday at Duluth’s Coppertop Church, but the way it’s being handed out is much different. Normally people are welcomed into the church basement where they can select their food. For this month, Ruby’s will be operating outside the church in the parking lot with drive-thru service. Cars will…

Wisconsin Child Care Workers Saddened by Call for Limit on Staff, Children

Governor Evers's order puts a huge burden on employees and parents.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- One of Superior’s busier child care centers reacts to Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers’s decision to scale back staff and amount of children in child care settings. The order dictates that organizations are not allowed to operate with more than 10 staff and 50 kids present. Meanwhile in Minnesota on Tuesday, Governor Tim Walz offered support to child care…

Visit Duluth Launches ’30 Days of Giveaways’ to Help Support Local Businesses

They estimate $4 million has been lost by local tourism industry because of canceled events

DULUTH, Minn. – An estimated $4 million has already been lost by the Duluth tourism industry because of canceled sporting events, conferences, and performances. Tourism is the third largest industry in Duluth, so all those cancellations have been devastating to local businesses. Visit Duluth has been limiting its promotions while the shutdowns continue. “We are pulling back on our promotions…

St. Louis County Declares Local State Of Emergency

This state of emergency builds on state executive orders and federal declarations already imposed.

DULUTH, Minn – As the Coronavirus pandemic continues, the St. Louis County Board of Commissioners has now declared a local state of emergency. This state of emergency builds on state executive orders and federal declarations already imposed. Public access to all St. Louis County offices, including walk-up service windows, will now be suspended. Some St. Louis County employees will also…

St. Luke’s Scaling Back Nonessential Appointments, Elective Surgeries, Procedures

DULUTH, Minn. – Starting Thursday, March 19 St. Luke’s will be scaling back on nonessential clinic appointments, elective surgeries, and procedures.  The hospital says they will be rescheduling many of these appointments through April 1.  St. Luke’s says they will contact patients to let them know if their appointment is going to be rescheduled and patients with questions can contact their…

First Case of Coronavirus Confirmed in Minnesota House of Representatives

(AP Photo/Steve Karnowski) ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – The first case of the COVID-19 coronavirus has been confirmed at the Minnesota House of Representatives, officials say. Right now, it’s not clear if the case is among a lawmaker or a staffer and officials say, due to privacy laws, they won’t release further information about the individual. “It is possible that…

Update: Miller Hill Mall to Temporarily Close

DULUTH, Minn. – Simon Property Group announced Wednesday afternoon that it will be closing all of its malls in the U.S. in an effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19.  The measure means that Miller Hill Mall will close tonight at 7 p.m. and open Monday, Mar. 30.  “The health and safety of our shoppers, retailers, and employees are…

Duluth Diocese Suspends Mass to Help Stem the Spread of COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Diocese announced on Wednesday that they will be suspending masses through April 20 to help stem the spread of COVID-19.  The suspension takes effect Friday, March 20.  According to the press release, All gatherings of more than 10 people will also be canceled.  Father Bissonette says confessions and office hours should continue to be made available…

Minnesota Unemployment Claims Jump as COVID-19 Cases Rise to 77

(Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune via AP) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota saw a sharp jump in applications for unemployment insurance after Gov. Tim Walz ordered restaurants, bars, theaters, fitness clubs and other places of public amusement closed to slow the spread of COVID-19. The Department of Employment and Economic Development took more than 2,000 applications per hour Tuesday, compared with about 40…

Animal Allies Taking Precautionary Measures Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth Postpones Humane Education Activities, Volunteer Trainings Until End of April

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic is now impacting the animals up for adoption in the Northland. Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth announced Wednesday morning on FOX 21 Local News that all humane education activities and volunteer trainings will be postponed until the end of April. Michelle Carter, Development Officer at Animal Allies, said the shelter is experiencing shifts…

Miller Hill Mall Modifies Operating Hours Due to COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – The Miller Hill Mall is temporarily changing its operating hours amid the COVID-19 pandemic.  The mall says the changes were made to support retailers and the community and are in accordance with CDC guidelines.  Operating hours will now be 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday.  The changes went into…

Judge Backs Minnesota’s Twin Metal Mines in Lease Dispute

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A federal judge on Tuesday rejected a challenge by environmental groups against the proposed Twin Metals copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota, saying the Interior Department had the authority to reverse itself and renew the project’s federal mineral rights leases. The Obama administration rejected the company’s application to renew its leases, citing the risk of acid mine drainage…

Grandma’s Marathon Still on for June, Officials Discussing Further Action

Officials recommend participants should look into cancellation plans for lodging in case race is postponed or cancelled.

DULUTH, Minn.- Grandma’s Marathon has not decided yet if the race of more than 9,000 runners will be cancelled because of the Coronavirus. Race officials told us they are right now discussing whether they need to cancel or postpone the race in June 19th. As for now, the race is still on. But officials are urging runners and spectators to…

Great Outdoors: Northlanders Enjoy The Sun

DULUTH, Minn. –  “Spend a couple days up here in Duluth and enjoy the surrounding area,” Champlin Resident, Jared Galligan says. That’s just what Jared Galligan and his family were able to do for a weekend while his children are on spring break. “They love this area. They always loving climbing on the rocks. Swimming at the hotel pools,” Galligan…

Instructors Get Creative as Colleges Move to All-Online Classes

CARLTON COUNTY, Minn. – Colleges and universities are switching to all-online classes as the coronavirus spreads. That can be a big challenge for teachers who have to change their curriculum to fit the current situation. Annie Dugan is teaching in a unique space for the rest of the semester. “Right now we have this big open greenhouse that I can…