WISCONSIN (SPECTRUM NEWS) -- The information about the Coronavirus is coming in at warp speed. We want to keep everyone as informed as possible and we will be updating this "blog" with information as it comes in to Spectrum News 1.

CORONAVIRUS FAQS, RESOURCES, UPDATES & MORE

FOR MORE UPDATES AFTER SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd, CLICK HERE

5:15 pm WHITE HOUSE CORONAVIRUS TASK FORCE UPDATE 

  • President Trump says the National Guard has been “activated” to help New York, California and Washington state
  • The Navy hospital ship the USNS Mercy will be deployed to Los Angeles to add emergency surge medical capacity
  • VP Mike Pence says the CDC is unveiling new guidelines tomorrow
  • Pence says 254,000 Americans have been tested for COVID-19 and just over 30,000 are positive

4:45 pm Gov. Evers Suspends Utility Rules and Allows for Additional Consumer Protections

Gov. Tony Evers today issued Emergency Order #11, suspending several utility-related administrative rules, paving the way for the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) to temporarily order further consumer protections amid the COVID-19 public health emergency. The order can be found here.

“It is critically important to give people flexibility during this emergency, when paychecks might be disrupted, to keep the lights and heat on and water flowing,” said Gov. Evers. “We’re making sure that folks don’t have to make the critical choice between keeping their utilities on and paying for other essentials.”

Immediately following the governor’s emergency order, PSC Chairperson Rebecca Cameron Valcq directed regulated utilities in the state to take the following actions for the duration of the emergency:

  1. Stop utility disconnection for nonpayment for all customers, including commercial, industrial, and farm accounts. Previously this applied to residential accounts only;
  2. Cease assessing late fees to customer accounts;
  3. Halt the practice of requiring deposits from customers for reconnection of service;
  4. Allow deferred payment agreements for all customers who request them;
  5. Remove any administrative barriers for customers establishing or reestablishing utility service; and
  6. Authorize water utilities to provide budget billing arrangements to customers. Electric and natural gas utilities are allowed to do this under current rules.

2:00 pm 381 POSITIVE CASES, 6320 NEGATIVE CASES

  • No new counties in Wisconsin that received a positive case from yesterday to today
  • Milwaukee Co. once again made the biggest jump in cases from 126 Saturday to 182 Sunday
  • 40-49 year olds have the highest amount of confirmed cases in Milwaukee Co.

 

10:23 am IN-HOME COVID-19 TESTING STARTING TODAY IN GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA

RemedyNow, a Wisconsin-based virtual medicine platform with the ability to convert telemedicine visits to house calls, today announced it is commencing in-home testing for coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), providing a rapid response for triaging potential cases, a relief valve for the local medical system and a service to those who may not want, or be able, to go to a site for COVID-19 testing or to Urgent Care, the emergency room or a doctor’s office for other medical needs at this time.

--Saturday, March 21--

7:39 pm VP MIKE PENCE & SECOND LADY TEST NEGATIVE 

6:46 pm GOV. EVERS REQUESTS FEMA ASSISTANCE

At the direction of Gov. Tony Evers, Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) is asking the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist the state in obtaining protective medical supplies that can be used by law enforcement officers and firefighters who are at risk of direct exposure to COVID-19 while performing their jobs.

“We are asking FEMA to help us purchase valuable medical supplies that will be used to protect our first responders as they do the important work of keeping Wisconsin safe,” said Gov. Evers. “It is our hope that the federal government can identify a source for these supplies as quickly as possible.”

FEMA is being asked to help Wisconsin obtain 50,000 non-surgical masks, 10,000 face shields, 11,000 coveralls, 3,000 N95 face masks, and 35,000 pairs of protective gloves through its procurement process.

“We recognize that this equipment is in high demand, and we thank our first responders for their patience as we work to identify additional sources of personal protective equipment,” said Dr. Darrell L. Williams, WEM administrator. “This initial request is intended to help meet the immediate needs of agencies across the state that continue to perform their daily duties, knowing they are at risk of being exposed to the virus.”

The request comes in addition to the state’s ongoing efforts to obtain personal protective equipment (PPE) from the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS). So far, the state has received about 52,000 N95 face masks, 130,000 surgical masks, 25,000 face shields, 20,000 surgical gowns, 100 coveralls, and 36,000 pairs of gloves from the SNS. Those materials are being distributed to direct healthcare providers in areas with known community spread. The governor is calling on federal officials to help identify additional resources.

5:18 pm NEW FDA TEST CAN GIVE AMERICANS RESULTS IN HOURS

 

 

 

2:00 pm 281 POSITIVE CASES, 4628 NEGATIVE CASES IN WISCONSIN

  • Dunn Co. is the only new county in Wisconsin with a positive case since yesterday 
  • Milwaukee Co. made the jump from 85 to 126 positive cases and had it's second death

1:38 pm 4 REMAINING GRAND PRINCESS CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS RETURN TO WI

Gov. Tony Evers announced today that late last night four Wisconsin citizens who were aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship that docked in the Port of Oakland, California last week arrived in Wisconsin.. Wisconsin National Guard personnel were waiting to transport them back to their homes for self-quarantine.

The cruise ship had confirmed cases of COVID-19 on board, so each passenger will follow Center for Disease Control and Wisconsin Department of Health Services protocols and continue to self-quarantine for the requisite 14-day period after landing at the National Guard’s Volk Field Combat Readiness Training Center in Camp Douglas, Wisconsin.

There were originally 38 Wisconsin citizens aboard the ship, all of whom are asymptomatic and have not tested positive for COVID-19. A first group of 29 returned to Wisconsin late March 15 after a weeks-long ordeal aboard the ship, which had more than 3,500 on board and 21 total cases of COVID-19. Two of the original 38 Wisconsin passengers chose to remain in quarantine in Texas under the custody of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HSS), citing personal reasons. The remaining three passengers remain in California and will return back to Wisconsin at a later date. Two of the passengers remain in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HSS), custody in California, and one passenger chose to remain in California citing personal reasons.

There are no more pending transports of Grand Princess cruise ship passengers for the Wisconsin National Guard.

12:00 pm PRESIDENT TRUMP & CORONAVIRUS TASKFORCE UPDATE

  • Both VP Mike Pence and his wife will be tested for COVID-19 this afternoon
  • Hundreds of millions of N95 masks will be made available to health care providers across the country
  • VP Mike Pence says "testing is expanding rapidly" across the country
  • More than 195,000 have been tested, nearly 19,400 are positive
  • Dr. Fauci says officials are trying to get self-tests out there so people with symptoms can do a test

10:48 am STATE LEADERS RELEASE JOINT STATEMENT ABOUT COVID-19 IN WISCONSIN

Today, Wisconsin legislative leaders released the following joint statement in regards to the state’s rapidly evolving response to the COVID-19 virus:

“As the state of Wisconsin faces the enormous challenges of responding to a public health crisis due to COVID-19, legislative leaders from both houses would like to acknowledge the efforts made by Wisconsin's health care workers, public health workers, and everyone else on the front lines of this pandemic. We would also like to thank the Evers’ administration for their efforts to open up lines of communication so that we, as elected officials, are able to communicate as much as possible to our constituents as the situation changes on an hour-by-hour basis.

“With news that states around the country and even Illinois are moving to suspend business operations, we as legislative leaders agree with the Governor's statements on Friday that a further shutdown of businesses in Wisconsin is unnecessary. The consequences felt by citizens and small businesses around the state has already been tremendous.

“As we move forward together in this fight to defeat the virus, we must keep in mind that the people we serve need the jobs they have today to help weather this storm. Continued economic activity will not only help us in our fight against this virus today, it will also ensure that we don't have to fight to recover from economic collapse tomorrow.”

8:15 am FOURTH DEATH FROM COVID-19 IN WISCONSIN

The Milwaukee Medical Examiner is investiagting the death of a 69-year-old male who had been hospitalized several days prior to his death. This marks the fourth death from COVID-19 in the state and second in Milwaukee County.

--Friday, March 20--

4:00 pm GOV EVERS & DHS HOLD PRESSER

As COVID-19 cases continue to rapidly rise across the state, hospitals are set to reach a critical stage, when it comes to supplies and equipment. 

“We’ve notified health care providers that the supply of personal protective equipment such as masks that we are going to receive from the federal strategic national stockpile won’t be enough to meet the needs of our healthcare facilities at surge capacity,” said Andrea Palm.

She says Wisconsin will receive 54,709 N-95 respirators, 24,816 face shields, 130,326 masks, 20,233 gowns, & 72,044 gloves. 

Those will be distributed first to counties with community spread and active cases, as well as long-term care facilities and hospitals.

Right now, the state has 2,500 ICU beds and 620 ventilators. How many we actually need is being discussed. 

Despite increased spread and various equipment shortages, Governor Tony Evers says he does not foresee a “shelter in place” order for Wisconsinites.

“I believe we’ll be able to avoid that, Wisconsinites are taking this seriously, we continue to encourage them to stay at home but I know other states have done. That, we will follow the science on that but we don’t anticipate doing that.”

DHS is working with healthcare workers to instill preservation strategies for essential supplies.

This includes ways to clean and reuse goggles and face masks but, palm says a shortage is imminent and we need additional manufacturing capacity.

Talks have begun with local manufacturers about making extra masks and ventilators to help ease this burden.

There is also still a shortage on ingredients needed to properly run coronavirus tests in the state, and across the country.

“Globally, everyone is looking for the same types of things to fight this epidemic whether it’s reagents we need to run tests, whether it’s personal protective equipment to keep folks from being infected, whether it’s hospital equipment like ventilators and so we are all competing”

Governor Evers also responded to a call from several mayors to postpone the April 7th primary.

He says the primary will happen as scheduled, though he encourages every Wisconsinite to vote absentee, if possible.

3:23 pm GOV EVERS UPDATES REGULATIONS ON GATHERINGS/PUBLIC ACCESS

 

 

2:45 pm MESSAGE FROM PUBLIC HEALTH MADISON & DANE COUNTY

  • As new commercial labs are able to process COVID-19 tests, the number of tests conducted each day in the state is rising dramatically. This also increases the number of individuals diagnosed with COVID-19.
  • This rapid change in numbers does not necessarily indicate that illness is spreading exponentially, just that we have more information about community incidence.
  • To prevent the spread of COVID-19, Public Health Madison & Dane County is continuing to conduct contact investigations to identify people that were in close contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19 and instruct them to self-quarantine. We ask the public to do their part to prevent the spread of illness by continuing to practice social distancing.

2:30 pm UW HEALTH STATEMENT ON POSITIVE STAFF CASE

“As COVID-19 spreads in our community, we know our physicians, providers and staff may be exposed and contract the virus, either through workplace interactions or providing care. We can confirm a positive result on our team and expect more. We are following COVID-19 protocols in handling this case and any others that should arise. Additionally, we launched a dedicated drive thru testing facility exclusively for UW Health physicians, providers and staff as part of an effort to keep our workforce healthy and preserve our capacity to handle care needs associated with COVID-19.”

2:00 pm NEW POSITIVE, NEGATIVE CASES PER WI DHS

 

 

 

1:25 pm UWL SCIENCE FACULTY TO PROVIDE ENOUGH SUPPLIES FOR 2,900 COVID-19 TESTS

 UW-La Crosse faculty and staff moved quickly Thursday evening and Friday morning to provide important supplies needed to run coronavirus tests. Supplies are in short supply at Gundersen and nationwide.  

“Our UWL faculty and staff and their families are an integral part of our greater La Crosse community,” says Mark Sandheinrich, dean of UWL’s College of Science and Health. “In our own way we each need to do our best to support our community in times of need.”  

At 6 p.m. Thursday, researchers at Gundersen reached out to Microbiology Professor Mike Hoffman asking for the supplies. Hoffman got the word out to colleagues in Microbiology and Biology and by 9 p.m. they had identified the location of the supplies in UWL’s Prairie Springs Science Center.  

Enough supplies to run 2,900 COVID-19 tests were collected and delivered to the Gundersen testing laboratory Friday morning.  

12:30 pm MADISON & BELOIT START CURBSIDE VOTING TODAY

The City of Madison has reserved four parking spots on Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. outside the City-County Building and the Madison Municipal Building for curbside voting starting Friday, March 20th. Voters who are high-risk for COVID-19 can register to vote and/or cast their ballot from their vehicle. High-risk populations include older adults and people with chronic health conditions. Curbside voting will be offered 8:00am - 6:00pm, Monday - Friday, March 20th - April 3rd.

Signs will be posted at each of the designated stalls prompting voters who need to use the curbside voting option to call the City Clerk's Office. A pair of election officials will be sent out to the voter's vehicle to assist the voter in registering (if needed) and voting.

The City Clerk's Office is offering this option to those voters who are at high-risk for the virus COVID-19. For those not at high risk, in-person absentee voting is available in the Clerk's Office, City-County Building, Room 103, and in the Madison Municipal Building, Room 153. More sites may be added over the coming days; please keep an eye on the City Clerk's in-person absentee voting page for the most up-to-date information.

11:30 am CORONAVIRUS TASKFORCE UPDATE FROM WASHINGTON D.C.

  • Donald Trump announced that student loan payments and all interest on federally held student loans will be waived for at least 60 days.  He said more information will come soon.
  • He also announced that the Department of Education will no longer enforce standardized testing for U.S. students, in both elementary schools and high schools.
  • He confirmed that the tax deadline has been moved from April 15th to July 15th.  Taxes can be filed then with no interest or penalties on money owed.  However, if you’re due a refund, you can file for that right now.
  • Trump said he had a “very good” conversation with Senator Chuck Schumer regarding bills to bolster the economy by offering financial help to individuals and businesses.
  • He applauded governors, particularly California’s Gavin Newsom and New York’s Andrew Cuomo for taking bold steps to curtail the spread of Coronavirus and said he’s “working closely with them”.
  • Trump said he is not considering a national lockdown.
  • He was joined by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf to announce a new agreement with Mexico to restrict  travel, saying mass migration will deplete resources, overwhelm the health care system, cripple our immigration system and put border patrol agents at risk.
  • In line with that, the CDC is exercising Title 42 protections for Customs and Border Patrol agents.  Any undocumented immigrants will be sent back to their home country immediately.
  • He said he took steps last night to “put into gear” the Defense Production Act, moving it into the “highest level of activation”.
  • He re-iterated that the federal government is helping the states “a lot”, saying things like procuring equipment is something the states would normally do, but the federal government is helping the states “a lot”, and getting them the equipment they need.

11:00am FOND DU LAC CO. HEALTH OFFICER GIVES UPDATES

10:40 am ROUNDY'S LOOKING TO HIRE 2,500 NEW WORKERS

Roundy's Supermarkets, Inc., which operates Pick 'n Save and Metro Market stores, announced Friday it is looking to hire up to 2,500 people due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The company says they will need help in all positions and all shifts at their 106 stores in Wisconsin. That includes full-time, part-time, and salaried management positions.

9:15 am MILWAUKEE REPORTS FIRST COVID-19 DEATH

The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner says it was investigating the death of a 66-year-old man who died from complications of a COVID-19 infection.

The medical examiner said the Milwaukee man had been hospitalized for several days prior to his death.

Gov. Tony Evers on Thursday announced the first two confirmed deaths from COVID-19 in Wisconsin. One was a man in his 50s from Fond du Lac County and the other was a man in his 90s from Ozaukee County.

State health officials did not immediately confirm that the Milwaukee death was the third in the state from COVID-19. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reported Thursday there were 155 confirmed cases in the state in 21 counties.

9:10 am TAX DAY MOVING TO JULY 15TH

 

 

--Thursday, March 29--

7:57 pm MAYOR TOM BARRETT IN 14-DAY SELF-QUARANTINE 

“I have been informed I came in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.  I have consulted with public health officials and they have recommended 14 days of self-quarantine and therefore that’s what I will be doing. I am following best practices by self-isolating. In an effort to maintain social distancing the last several days, I have been continuing my duties and responsibilities by teleconference and videoconference and I expect to do the same during this time of self-quarantine.”

7:09 pm FIRST TWO DEATHS IN WISCONSIN FROM COVID-19

 Two Wisconsin residents have died from the coronavirus pandemic, the first to be reported in the state.

Gov. Tony Evers announced Thursday that a man in his 50s from Fond du Lac County and a man in his 90s from Ozaukee County had died. No other details about their circumstances was reported.

“Our hearts go out to all the loved ones affected by these deaths, and to all those suffering from this virus,” Evers said in a statement. “We are committed to fighting the spread of COVID-19 in Wisconsin and I want to recognize the hard work and bravery of our nurses, doctors, state health officials, and all those on the front lines in the effort to save lives. Together we will get through this historic health challenge.”

 

 

 

5:30 pm UW SYSTEM TO OFFER PRORATED ROOM AND BOARD REFUNDS

University of Wisconsin System President Ray Cross announced today that all UW System institutions will refund the prorated charges for housing and dining for the remainder of the spring semester for students who have vacated their respective universities.

Cross said the decision is a response to the evolving situation related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the transition to classes being delivered through alternative methods.

“We recognize the tremendous upheaval this pandemic has inflicted on the lives of our students, and we appreciate their patience and their sacrifice,” Cross said. “This reimbursement is the right thing to do.”

 

 

University chancellors were consulted on the decision and agree with it. 

Prorated reimbursements will exclude the period of the originally scheduled spring break and shall be issued by the close of the spring academic semester. Crediting these funds toward future semesters in lieu of a refund is not an option because of rules related to the awarding of federal financial aid. 

5:08 pm DPW TO RELAX PARKING ENFORCEMENT

Effective immediately, the City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works has suspended all timed, metered and night parking restrictions to accommodate residents who are home due to COVID-19. Vehicles will not be required to alternate side-park or have night parking permits.

 

 

Vehicles must abide by all other parking regulations, including posted “NO PARKING” signs. Parking Enforcement will focus on safety-related violations including unauthorized parking in a handicapped space, obstructing traffic/bicycle/streetcar lanes, and parking too close to an alley/driveway/fire hydrant/crosswalk.

Additionally, No Parking in a Loading Zone (including Carryout Zones) will be actively enforced. Per Wisconsin statute, a vehicle must be attended while actively loading/unloading so that it may promptly be moved in case of an emergency or to avoid obstruction of traffic.

4:40 pm MEIJER ANNOUNCES NEW STORE HOURS, DEDICATED TIMES FOR SENIORS

Meijer announced today it is adjusting its store hours for the foreseeable future to allow more time for team members to deep clean and restock its stores, as well as dedicated hours for senior citizens, customers with chronic health conditions, essential service workers and its team members.

New store hours are as follows:

  • Meijer stores will close overnight at 10 p.m. local time, beginning Friday, March 20, and will open each morning at 8 a.m. local time.
  • Meijer Express convenience store locations will close overnight at 10 p.m. and open each morning at 8 a.m.; pay-at-the-pump fuel sales will remain available 24 hours a day.
  • Meijer stores and pharmacies will provide dedicated shopping times for senior citizens and customers with chronic health conditions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-8 a.m. local time.
  • Meijer stores and pharmacies will provide dedicated shopping times for essential service workers and Meijer team members on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7-8 a.m. local time.

“These are unprecedented times that require appropriate action to ensure we are supporting the communities where our customers and team members work and live,” said Rick Keyes, Meijer President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our adjusted store hours will ensure all of our customers have access to the products they need in the cleanest shopping environment possible.”

Essential service workers include all medical workers, first responders and law enforcement. Meijer is asking its customers and the public to please respect the times for these important groups.

“As we continue to evaluate the store hours that will best serve all our customers, it’s more important than ever for us to work together for the greater good of our communities,” Keyes said. “All of us at Meijer are proud to serve our customers and we will continue to work through these challenging times together.”

4:00 pm GOV. EVERS URGES PUBLIC TO KEEP HEALTHCARE WORKERS SAFE

Gov. Tony Evers today reminded Wisconsinites to follow the guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), urging the public to stay home as much as they are able.  

“Social distancing not only protects you and your family from increased exposure to COVID-19, but it protects our healthcare professionals, direct care providers, and others who are on the frontlines serving our communities during this pandemic,” said Gov. Evers. “We need these workers who are providing essential services to stay healthy so they can continue to care for and serve our state. While I know the COVID-19 outbreak has caused many disruptions to your daily life, your help will go a long way in protecting the health and safety of our state.”

With limited testing materials available nationwide, Gov. Evers encourages those who are asymptomatic or experiencing mild symptoms to stay home and self-isolate. This will help conserve testing materials for those who are severely ill and require hospitalization or are considered high-risk individuals. This also helps reduce exposure to the virus for our healthcare professionals. 

2:00 pm NEW POSITIVE, NEGATIVE CASES MARCH 19, 2020

1:45 pm KOHL'S ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF STORES NATIONWIDE

Kohl’s announced today that as the result of the escalating COVID-19 pandemic the company will temporarily close its stores nationwide effective Thursday, March 19 at 7 p.m. local time.

“To demonstrate our support of the efforts underway to contain the spread of the coronavirus, we are closing all Kohl’s stores through at least April 1.  We will support store associates with two calendar weeks of pay,” said Michelle Gass, Kohl’s chief executive officer. “We will continue to serve customers on Kohls.com and our Kohl’s App, and we look forward to reopening our stores soon to serve families across the country.”

Kohl’s will continue to serve its millions of customers through Kohls.com and Kohl’s App and will ship their desired items directly to their homes. 

 

11:00 am CORONAVIRUS TASK FORCE BRIEFING

  • President Trump touts FDA approval to re-purpose therapeutic drugs that may treat COVID-19
  • Donald Trump talked about drugs that may be re-purposed to treat Coronavirus, including Hydroxychloroquine, now used to treat Malaria, and the anti-viral Remdesivir, adding Governor Cuomo wants New York to be “first in line” for the possible treatment.
  • He said the FDA would “slash red tape” to get drugs in use abroad approved for compassionate use, under the “Right to Try” law.
  • He talked about signing the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act, saying it provides critical support for families and small businesses, testing and food support, and promised more help is on the way.
  • He clarified that, although he signed the Defense Production Act, which would order mass manufacturing of products like much-needed ventilators and masks, it would only be used “if necessary”.
  • Trump once again referred to COVID-19 as the “Chinese Virus” and said it could have been stopped “where it came from” if China had made it known.
  • V.P. Mike Pence said a new initiative with private companies would mean tens of millions of N-95 masks will soon be available.

FILE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS ONLINE:

The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) is encouraging people to go online for faster service delivery. DWD's Unemployment Insurance Division is experiencing heavy call volume and longer than normal wait times.

For fast, up-to-date information and to apply for unemployment benefits, click here.

This website also contains information:

  • For employees: The majority of people applying for unemployment benefits can complete their claim online. Receiving unemployment benefits is a two-step process:
  1. Apply online - The week you become unemployed, file your application online and do not wait to file. For more information, instructional videos, and to apply, please click here.
  2. File your weekly claim - After you have applied online, you will need to file a claim certification each week. This will require you to answer a series of questions. You must continue to file a weekly claim certification for each week you would like to receive benefits. You can find more information here.

DWD has a helpful claimant handbook that can be found here. It contains important information and instructions about your eligibility for benefits and how to protect your rights to those benefits under the Wisconsin Unemployment Insurance law.

Employers can also find information on: 

DWD has a helpful Wisconsin Unemployment Insurance Handbook for Employers, which can be found here.

If you have difficulty finding the information you need, please use the search bar located at the top of each page by typing in keywords.

Frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 Coronavirus and Wisconsin Unemployment Benefits here. 

9:29 am ROUNDY'S TO OFFER SENIOR HOURS

Beginning Friday, March 20, 2020, all Pick ‘n Save, and Metro Market stores throughout the State of Wisconsin will have designated special shopping hours for those who are most at risk of COVID-19. The hours are 6 am to 8 am seven days a week until further notice.

Roundy’s Division President, Michael Marx stated, “Pick ‘n Save, and Metro Market are committed to help support the shopping needs of the elderly in our community by providing a less crowded shopping environment. Therefore, we are reserving shopping time for the elderly and those with underlying health concerns who must leave home to obtain their groceries. This will help them avoid busier and more crowded shopping periods. We encourage our customers to respect these designated store hours for seniors and to plan their shopping trips around this timeframe.”

9:15 am HARLEY-DAVIDSON TEMPORARILY SUSPENDING U.S. PRODUCTION

  • Goes into effect this evening, March, 18, through March 19
  • Will support employee health and further bolster coronavirus containment efforts
  • Facilities temporarily suspending production: York Vehicle Operations in PA, Wisconsin facilities Tomahawk Operations, and Pilgrim Road Powertrain Operations

8:00 am FROEDTERT & MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WI ANNOUNCE NEW VISITOR GUIDELINES

Effective March 19, they will no longer allow visitors in the inpatient setting. Exceptions may be made for end of life care and other limited situations. This is for Froedtert Hospital, Froedtert Menomonee Falls, & Froedtert West Bend Hospital.

7:41 am DOOR CO. ASKING TOURISTS TO STAY AWAY FOR 30 DAYS

-- Wednesday, March 18 --

4:30 pm ALL DMV OFFICE WILL CLOSE FRIDAY, MARCH 20

All WI DMV offices will close on Friday, March 20 to conduct a deep clean and modify public spaces for social distancing. DMVs reopen on Monday, March 23.

Once DMVs reopen, in-person visits will be restricted to ‘appointment only’ to issue new driver licenses or ID cards. 

4:00 pm MILWAUKEE CO. COVID-19 UPDATE

  • The number of confirmed cases will keep going up
  • Symptoms don't show up for 7 or 8 days
  • More people than those that are currently reported as positive, are also positive
  • There still are not enough tests for everyone 
  • Wisconsin will eventually get to a Level 3 warning area

3:25 pm WISCONSIN FACING BLOOD SHORTAGE

Wisconsin is facing a blood shortage after donation drives across the state have been canceled. 

Versiti blood center of Wisconsin is encouraging all healthy donors to make an appointment at one of 10 Donation centers across the state. Hours have been extended to fit in more donors.

Staff are asking for travel history and will take your temperature before you can donate. Chairs and common areas are always wiped down, and staff are taking extra time to santize surfaces. There are blue screens around each donation station to practice social distancing. Doctors are urging healthy people to keep their appointments so there is sufficient blood supply for cancer patients and trauma victims.

"This is really an unprecedented time, I'VE never seen anything like this where the whole country is affected by being able to collect blood and its going to be with us, its not going to go away next week," said Dr. Thomas Abshire, Chief Medical Officer for Versiti. 

Doctors say there is no indication coronavirus can be transmitted through blood.

To make an appointment visit versiti.org/WI

3:08 pm FIRST CASE OF COVID-19 IN WALWORTH CO. 

Walworth County Division of Public Health announced today that there is now one confirmed case in Walworth County. This individual recently travelled domestically and at the recommendation of Walworth County Division of Public Health, voluntarily self-isolated upon returning to the community. Out of respect for the patient’s privacy, no additional information will be provided.

“We are in daily contact with this individual to monitor their symptoms and ensure they are receiving support to be able to isolate at home,” said Erica Bergstom, Public Health Officer.

2:00 pm NEW POSTIVE, NEGATIVE NUMBERS FOR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18

1:38 pm GOV. EVERS ORDERS SCALING DOWN OF ALL CHILD CARE SETTINGS

Gov. Tony Evers today directed Department of Health Services (DHS) Secretary-designee Andrea Palm to restrict the size of all child care settings. Centers may not operate with more than 10 staff present at a time and may not operate with more than 50 children present at a time. This order can be found here.

The restriction in size goes into effect at 8 a.m. on Thurs,, March 19, 2020 to give child care providers and families time to make plans for care moving forward. The closure will remain in effect for the duration of the public health emergency declared by Executive Order #72. 

1:14 pm DOCTOR AT CHILDREN'S WISCONSIN TESTS POSTIVE 

Children's hospital said this in a press release:

A doctor at Children’s Wisconsin has tested positive for COVID-19 after exposure to an individual who was positive for the virus in connection with travel outside Wisconsin before relevant travel restrictions were in effect. The provider is quarantined at home, with mild symptoms, and is recovering. We have offered our colleague our care and support in managing self-quarantine.

We have seen this happen at health care organizations across the nation, and we knew it was only a matter of time before we had a confirmed case on our team.

Our Infection Prevention team, working with the CDC, Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the Wauwatosa Health Department, are identifying and contacting all staff and all patient families with exposure to the diagnosed doctor. Patient families will be given individualized instructions and support for their needs. Staff will also be instructed on next steps based on CDC guidelines, ranging from monitoring symptoms, self-quarantine or testing.

Our priority is always the health and well-being of our patients, our staff and providers, and our larger Wisconsin community. We have rigorous internal systems for infection prevention, and have expanded them greatly in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Every COVID-19 case underscores the need for all of us to stay vigilant in the face of the virus, while offering support and care to all those who need it in our community.

11:52 am GOV. EVERS REQUESTS FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Gov. Tony Evers today submitted a request to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance for small Wisconsin businesses and private, non-profit organizations to help alleviate the economic impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak. Gov. Evers request to SBA can be found here. 

“Social distancing and self-isolation are critical steps in reducing and preventing the spread of this virus in our communities, but it comes at an economic cost to our local businesses,” said Gov. Evers. “The loan assistance from SBA will help alleviate some of the financial burden and stress on our small businesses during this public health crisis. We will continue to work with our federal partners, state officials, and stakeholders to ensure we are improving public safety and health while protecting our state economy.”

11:06 am FROEDTERT SATELLITE LOCATION IN PLEASANT PRAIRIE

As Wisconsin continues to see the number of coronavirus cases climb we are learning more about where patients can get tested.

A mobile testing station has been set up at the Froedtert satellite location in Pleasant Prairie on  Old Green Bay Road.

The drive-thru testing is a creative way to get a swab without ever having to step foot in a hospital or clinic. 

The Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers will make the decisions whether testing is appropriate for each individual case. 

If you are experiencing symptoms and/or you believe you may have been exposed to 

the COVID-19 virus, please call 262-671-7777 for an initial phone evaluation. If indicated, you may make an appointment at our drive-thru testing site, located at the Pleasant Prairie Clinic, 10256 Old Green Bay Road (Highways 31 & 165), Pleasant Prairie, WI. 

Clinic hours are: Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 

Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Sunday CLOSED 

11:00 am CORONAVIRUS TASK FORCE UPDATE

  • President Trump confirmed that two U.S. hospital ships, The Mercy and The Comfort, will be deployed in the next week, one to New York and one to the West Coast.  The ships have about 1,000 hospital rooms and surgical theatres.
  • The Department of Housing and Urban Development will offer immediate relief to renters and homeowners, suspending evictions until the end of April.
  • ”Mr. Trump announced he will invoke the Defense Production Act, which will expedite the supply of resources from industry to the military and Homeland Security.
  • He said the human clinical trial on humans is going forward in partnership with the CDC, NIH and FDA.  Trump called it the fastest development of a vaccine in history.
  • Mr. Trump also announced there would also be expanded testing on a self-swab process.  He says he’s asked the FDA to “cut through the red tape”, saying the test would “free up a lot” of health professionals. 
  • He announced he would meet with the nation’s governors at FEMA tomorrow, and will meet with nurses this afternoon.
  • Dr. Deborah Birx announced troubling news from France, where two young people became severely ill in an ICU.

10:00 am ROUNDY'S CHANGING HOURS OF OPERATION

Beginning Thursday, March 19, 2020, all Pick ‘n Save, and Metro Market stores throughout the State of Wisconsin will be adjusting their store hours. All stores will be open from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm until further notice.

Roundy’s Division President, Michael Marx stated, “Pick ‘n Save, and Metro Market are committed to providing a great customer experience. Safe food handling and clean shopping environments are a top priority. By changing our hours of operation, we’re able to effectively clean and sanitize our stores. Also, the additional hours will allow us to restock our shelves as we deal with the unprecedented surge in grocery shopping we have experienced over the last two weeks.”

8:37 am PRESIDENT TRUMP CLOSES NORTHERN BORDER

-- Tuesday, March 17 --

4:15 pm MILWAUKEE CO. GIVES CONFIRMED CASES UPDATE

There are now 40 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Milwaukee County. There are now 89 total confirmed cases in Wisconsin. That includes the newest case in Fond du Lac Co. 

4:00 pm FOND DU LAC CO. GIVES UPDATE ON NEW CASE

Kim Mueller, Fond du Lac Co. Health Officer says that there is one new confirmed case of COVID-19 in the county. Another 58 tests came back negative. The county now has a total of 12 positive cases. 

3:30 pm MARCUS THEATRES WILL TEMPORARILY CLOSES

Marcus Thetres is temporarily closing its theatres starting today with the last showtime at 8:30 p.m. This decision is in alignment with the latest direction from the preeminent national health care experts who urged Americans to avoid crowds due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

“When the timing is right, we look forward to welcoming back our guests to enjoy the social experience of moviegoing together – the way movies are meant to be seen,” said Rolando Rodriguez, chairman, president, CEO of Marcus Theaters.

2:05 pm UW-MADISON NO IN-PERSON CLASSES REST OF SEMESTER

In a letter from Chancellor Rebecca Blank:

  • We will shift to alternate delivery of courses from March 23 through the end of the spring semester, including final exams. Students will receive information about instruction as plans are completed.
  • In addition, we advise those who have opted to travel away from Madison for Spring Break to carefully consider whether they need to return to Madison or can continue the semester from their permanent residence.
  • All units were asked to move all possible employees into teleworking this past Monday, March 16. Beginning March 18, campus will take steps so that the only employees (including graduate student employees) physically working on campus are those needed to deliver essential services that cannot be done via telecommuting. This will be in effect until further notice. Employees who cannot telecommute and who are not involved in essential services will be eligible to use leave.
  • Essential services include public safety, academic course delivery and student support, admissions, financial aid and enrollment for new and continuing students, certain research activities and associated animal care, University Housing, communications as well as core administrative and facility services.

2:00 pm 72 POSITIVE CASES, 1038 NEGATIVE CASES

1:47 pm GOV. EVERS DIRECTS DHS TO LIMIT GATHERINGS TO 10 OR LESS

Gov. Tony Evers today directed Department of Health Services (DHS) Secretary-designee Andrea Palm to issue an agency order prohibiting mass gatherings of 10 people or more to slow the spread of COVID-19. The order makes exceptions for transportation, educational institutions, child care, hotels, military, law enforcement, food pantries, hospitals, long-term care facilities, restaurants and bars can only offer take-out or delivery, grocery stores and convenience stores, utility facilities, job centers, and courts. See full order and list of exemptions here. Additionally, schools will be closed for the duration of the public health emergency.

“Our top priority at this time is to keep Wisconsinites safe and healthy by reducing the spread of COVID-19, especially for those who are considered high-risk. With limited tests available nationwide and continued community spread, we have to take every precaution to protect ourselves, our families, and our neighbors,” said Gov. Evers. 

1:19 pm ONEIDA CASINO CLOSING

Oneida Casino will be temporarily closing Saturday, March 21, at 11:59 pm. It will be a two week closure to the public, subject to change. All casino employees will continue to be paid. 

12:12 pm BROWN COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE GOING VIRTUAL

For the well-being of staff and the public alike, the Brown County Clerk’s Office will be closing the public counter service area of the office effective at 1 p.m. on Tuesday March 17, 2020, but will remain fully staffed to answer questions or information needs of the public via telephone, email and fax.

In response to the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Brown County Clerk’s Office will be taking the necessary steps to protect the health and safety of our visitors and staff, while doing our part to assist in minimizing the spread. 

11:30 am WHITE HOUSE TASK FORCE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

Full story: Trump wants quick checks sent to public in virus response

  • President Trump wants checks sent to public in virus response in the next two weeks
  • Says Americans should put in 15-day plans and "if you're sick, stay home," urges Vice President Mike Pence
  • Continuing to urging social distancing, no crowds of more than 10 people

8:45 am KENTUCKY DERBY RESCHEDULED

Full story: The Biggest Events in Kentucky are Being Rescheduled

-- Monday, March 16 --

11:10 pm MILWAUKEE COUNTY ORDERS BARS, RESTAURANTS TO CLOSE

Starting Tuesday 11 Milwaukee County municipalities are closing restaurants and bars except for carryout or delivery. 

3:45 pm ARCHDIOCESE OF MILWAUKEE CANCELS PUBLIC MASSES

Per a press release: "Effective Wednesday, March 18, I am suspending the public celebration of Masses throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, through Friday, April 3. This includes weekday and Sunday Masses. I ask that priests still celebrate Mass in their parishes, without an assembly, including the Sunday “pro populo” Masses as required by canon law." 

2:30 pm PRESIDENT TRUMP PROVIDES UPDATE

President Trump recommends a "15 Days to Slow the Spread" of COVID-19 by:

  • Avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 people 
  • Avoid eating/drinking at bars, restaurants, and food courts 
  • Avoid discretionary travel 
  • School from home, if possible

Full story: Trump Urges No Groups Larger Than 10 to Slow Coronavirus Spread

Courtesy: White House/CDC

1:49 pm 47 POSITIVE, 504 NEGATIVE CASES IN WISCONSIN

1:30 pm GOV. EVERS, WI DHS PRESS CONFERENCE UPDATE

Highlights from the press conference:

  • Restaurants may remain open as long as they follow guidelines on social distancing and maintain less than 50% capacity
  • WI DHS Secretary: Recommendation has been made that daycare centers remain open around the state
  • The State Public Health Lab now is able to test 400 tests a day, seven days a week
  • Testing is only encouraged for those who have "flu-like" symptoms

12:08 pm GOV. EVERS TO ORDER BAN ON GATHERINGS OF 50 OR MORE PEOPLE

The order exempts infrastructure and services such as grocery stores, food pantries, childcare centers, pharmacies and hospitals. More information to follow after a 1:30 pm press conference today. 

11:31 am CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF WISCONSIN CHANGES

Beginning Tuesday, March 17, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin will be suspending all non-time-sensitive surgeries and clinic appointments. 

11:19 am COLLEGE BOARD CANCELS MAY SAT 

In response to the rapidly evolving situation around the coronavirus (COVID-19), the College Board is canceling the May 2, 2020, SAT administration. Makeup exams for the March 14 administration (scheduled March 28) are also canceled. Registered students will receive refunds.

The College Board has not yet canceled the June, 6 2020 administration.

11:01 am POTAWATOMI CASINO CLOSES ITS DOORS

In accordance with the most recent guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control, Potawatomi Hotel & Casino will suspend operations indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The closure will begin at 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 17. Employees will be paid during the closure.

“At this time, the health and safety of our guests and the 2,700 team members at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino is the top priority,” said Rodney Ferguson, CEO and General Manager of the property.

We will remain in communication with local health officials and update guests, team members and community as warranted. 

10:15 am 29 WISCONSINITES FROM GRAND PRINCESS ARRIVE HOME SAFELY

Twenty-nine Wisconsin residents who were aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship that docked at the Port of Oakland in California last week were safely transported back to Wisconsin late Sunday night, where Soldiers and Airmen from the Wisconsin National Guard were waiting to transport them back to their homes for self-quarantine.

9:44 am VOTER REGISTRATION CLOSES WEDNESDAY

A reminder from the city of Madison: Wednesday, March 18 is the final day to register to vote online or by mail prior to the April 7 Spring Election. Voters can check their registration at https://MyVote.wi.gov.

Voter registration is available at all absentee voting sites through the Friday before Election Day and at the polls on Election Day.  Proof of address is needed when registering to vote, and it may be electronic or printed on paper.  

9:22 am ELTON JOHN AT FISERV FORUM POSTPONED

The shows for the Farwell Yellow Brick Road tour from March 26 to May 2, 2020 are postponed. Ticketholders of the postponed performances will receive new event information shortly and all original tickets will be honored at the rescheduled performances. 

-- Sunday, March 15 --

7:00 pm CDC NEW RECOMMENDATION

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday recommended that no gatherings with 50 people or more take place for the next eight weeks in an effort to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

FULL STORY: US CDC recommends strict 8-week limit on crowds

6:40 pm CORONAVIRUS VACCINE TRIAL STARTS MONDAY

A clinical trial evaluating a vaccine designed to protect against the new coronavirus will begin Monday, according to a government official.

4:26 pm FEDERAL RESERVE SLASHES RATES

The Federal Reserve took emergency action Sunday and slashed its benchmark interest rate by a full percentage point to nearly zero and announced it would purchase more Treasury securities to encourage lending to try to offset the impact of the coronavirus outbreak.

2:54 pm 33 TOTAL POSITIVE CASES IN WISCONSIN

-- Saturday, March 14 --

3:05 pm 27 TOTAL POSITIVE CASES IN WISCONSIN

The DHS released new numbers Saturday afternoon showing there are now 27 total positive cases affecting 8 counties. There is also a total of 246 negative cases as well.

1:18 pm WHITE HOUSE NOW CONDUCTING TEMPERATURE CHECKS

The White House announced Saturday that it is now conducting temperature checks on anyone who is in close contact with President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.

The move is being taken out of an abundance of caution in response to the coronavirus outbreak, said Judd Deere, a White House spokesman.

Trump and Pence attended an afternoon news conference at the White House, and Trump said he had his own temperature taken before speaking to reporters.

“It was totally normal,” Trump said. “If it wasn’t, I wouldn’t have been here.”

10:22 am BUCKS ENTIRE ROSTER TO MAKE DONATIONS

FULL STORY: Entire Bucks Roster Chips in to Help out Fiserv Forum Workers

The whole Bucks team is making sure the 1,000 plus hourly workers are taken care of.

9:15 am MPS TO PROVIDE MEALS TO STUDENTS DURING CLOSURE

In light of the school closures, MPS says they will be proving meals to the students throughout the closure period. 

They will be doing so at a series of distribution locations throughout the greater Milwaukee area. 

Those meals will be available Monday through Friday 11 am to 1 pm. 

The distribution centers will also provide enrichment resources and additional materials for students both in hard copy and online. 

More information will be available in the future from the district. 

-- Saturday, March 14 --

5:23 pm SCHOOLS CLOSED EFFECTIVE MONDAY, MARCH 16

Following the recent school closure announcement from Gov. Tony Evers, Kenosha Unified, Racine Unified and Milwaukee Public Schools have decided to close effective Monday, March 16, 2020. 

This decision has been made in the best interest of our students and staff to ensure the safety and well-being of all in our school communities. The districts will continue working closely with health officials and one another to make informed decisions and update our communities as expeditiously as possible. 

Both Kenosha and Racine will reopen on Monday, April 6, unless notified otherwise by the governor’s office and/or city/county health officials. Milwaukee will reopen Tuesday, April 14, due to their previously scheduled spring break scheduled for April 6-13.

Information regarding lunch programs, student support services and staffing requirements will be shared with each individual school district’s families and staff in the very near future.  

4:29 pm GOV. EVERS MANDATES STATEWIDE K-12 CLOSURE

Gov. Tony Evers today directed Department of Health Services (DHS) Secretary-designee Andrea Palm to issue an agency order mandating the statewide closure of all K-12 schools, public and private, as part of the state’s efforts to respond to and contain the spread of COVID-19 in Wisconsin. A copy of DHS Secretary-designee Palm’s order can be found here.

 

 

The mandated closure will begin on Wednesday, March 18th, in order to give school districts ample time to make plans for kids, families, educators, and staff. School districts, particularly those in counties with reported cases of COVID-19, may choose to close earlier than Wednesday. The anticipated reopening date is April 6, 2020; however, the reopening date is subject to change pending further information.

4:17 pm UW-MADISON RESPONDS TO EMPLOYEE WITH COVID-19

University officials are cooperating fully with Public Health Madison & Dane County and other public health officials regarding a university employee who works in the School of Veterinary Medicine building who was diagnosed with novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

The employee recently traveled to a country with widespread transmission of coronavirus. This employee is currently isolated at home. Due to privacy concerns, we are not releasing more information about this individual. This person will remain at home until authorized by Public Health to return to normal activities.

Public Health will be identifying close contacts. These individuals will be asked to do daily symptom and temperature checks and isolate themselves.

Non-essential employees in the building are being directed to return home this afternoon and to self-monitor for symptoms. University officials are working closely with Public Health Madison & Dane County to determine what ongoing actions may need to be taken.

3:40 pm MORE SCHOOLS ANNOUNCE CLOSURES

  • Cudahy:  3/16-4/10 Will offer packaged meals for pick up, alternative learning details coming next week
  • Wauwatosa:  3/16-27 will move to digital learning 3/17-20
  • St. Francis: 3/16-4/13
  • Greendale:  3/16-4/3
  • New Berlin:  3/16.  Classes resume 3/30
  • Muskego-Norway  3/16-3/27

2:59 pm BUCKS TO MATCH PLAYER DONATIONS

The Bucks organization announced via Twitter and press announcement that they are proud to match all Bucks player donations to part-time arena workers following the donation that Giannis made earlier Friday. 

2:45 pm PRESIDENT TRUMP DECLARES NATIONAL EMERGENCY

2:06 pm SCHOOL DISTRICTS CANCELING FOR 4 WEEKS

  • Brown Deer
  • Cedarburg
  • Fox Point-Bayside
  • Germantown
  • Glendale-River Hills
  • Grafton
  • Maple Dale-Indian Hill
  • Mequon-Thiensville
  • Nicolet High School
  • Northern Ozaukee
  • Port Washington
  • Shorewood
  • Whitefish Bay

1:52 pm GIANNIS DONATION TO FISERV FORUM WORKERS

Bigger than basketball! Giannis and his family are following Kevin Love by pledging to donate $100,000 to the Fiserv Forum Staff.

1:49 pm 19 POSITIVE CASES IN WISCONSIN

Per DHS, there is now 19 positive cases in Wisconsin. Breakdown:

  • Milwaukee Co. -- 2 cases
  • Racine Co. -- 1 case
  • Sheboygan Co.-- 3 cases
  • Fond du Lac Co. -- 6 cases
  • Dane Co. -- 5 cases
  • Pierce Co. -- 1 case
  • Waukesha Co. -- 1 case

1:24 pm CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS

Charter Communications, the parent company of Spectrum News 1, announced efforts to help customers for the next 60 days.

  • Charter will offer free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription at any service level up to 100 Mbps. To enroll call 1-844-488-8395. Installation fees will be waived for new student households.
  • Charter will partner with school districts to ensure local communities are aware of these tools to help students learn remotely.
  • For eligible low-income households without school-aged children, Charter continues to offer Spectrum Internet Assist, a low-cost broadband program delivering speeds of 30 Mbps
  • Charter will open its Wi-Fi hotspots across our footprint for public use
  • Spectrum does not have data caps or hidden fees.

1:00 pm MAYOR BARRETT NEWS CONFERENCE

The Milwaukee County Fire Chief says that the best thing we can do to protect ourselves and the community is keep our distance, coughing into our sleeves, don't touch our faces, and don't go to crowded areas. He also says that the city of Milwaukee is prepared to take care of their citizens. 

Update on cases in the U.S.: CDC says there are 1629 total cases and 41 deaths.

According to Jeanette Kowalik, Milwaukee Health Comissioner, the state of Wisconsin has 8 positive cases. There are no cases in the city of Milwaukee, but officials are decalring a public health emergency effective today. This give them the ability to mandate closures. The city will be in talks with MPS over the weekend to decide what they will do with the school system. 

11:28 am CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL RESTRICTIONS

Effective immediately, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin is restricting visitors for appointments to only one caregiver and no siblings.

10:39 am NASCAR POSTPONING RACES

Nascar has decided to postopone their next two races in Atlanta and Miami. They will continue to monitor the situation as they assess future race events. 

9:55 am PRESIDENT TRUMP ADDRESSING NATION

The president sent a tweet announcing he will be addressing the nation this afternoon at 3:00 pm EST, 2:00 pm CST.

9:25 am BOSTON MARATHON POSTPONED

9:25 am ONEIDA NATION DECLARES PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY

Dr. Ravinder Vir, Oneida’s Comprehensive Health Division Medical Director, told Oneida Administrators today, “We are focused on prevention and protection. Our initiative is not fear driven. If we are pro-active today, it will lend to a better tomorrow.”

Further updates and information will be posted on their website. 

9:10 am MASTERS TOURNAMENT POSTPONED

The Masters Tournament is the latest sporting event to be postponed. Fred Ridley, Charirman of Augusta National Golf Club released a statement.

-- Friday, March 13 -- 

11:44 pm WIAA CANCELS ALL WINTER STATE TOURNAMENT EVENTS

The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association determined all remaining games of the State Girls Basketball Tournament, and the boys basketball sectional finals and the State Tournament will be canceled in response to the evolving concerns over the spread of COVID-19. 

4:45 pm UWM FOUNDATION EMPLOYEE TESTS NEGATIVE

The UWM Foundation employee who was tested for coronavirus has tested negative. The employee became ill after coming in contact with someone who had recently been to a country with a Level-3 travel warning. In response, UWM extended its spring break to two weeks and is preparing to move the majority of its classes online. 

3:48 pm MILWAUKEE BUCKS ADDRESS BUCKS TICKETS

Due to the NBA’s suspension of games until further notice, tonight’s game against the Boston Celtics and remainder of the 2020 regular season are currently postponed. Tickets held for any postponed game will be valid for the rescheduled date, when that is determined. The NBA is currently evaluating plans for the remainder of the 2020 regular season.

3:27 pm DISNEYLAND RESORT CLOSES

The California amusement park is shutting down for only the fourth time in history, according to the New York Times.

3:16 pm NCAA CANCELS REMAINING WINTER AND SPRING CHAMPIONSHIPS

NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors have now canceled all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. Earlier Thursday, the NCAA canceled DI men's and women's basketball tournaments. The decision is based on the changing COVID-19 threat.

2:43 pm JASON ALDEAN CONCERT POSTPONED MARCH 14

2:10 pm MLB CANCELS SPRING TRAINING GAMES, DELAYS OPENING DAY

Per MLB, Opening Day wil be delayed at least two weeks. The Milwaukee Brewers opener was scheduled for March 26 against the Chicago Cubs at Miller Park. 

1:30 pm KENNY CHESNEY TOUR POSTPONED

According to Kenny Chesney's website, his April 25th concert at Miller Park has been postponed. He has postponed all of his concerts through May 28th. 

1:04 pm DAN + SHAY POSTPONED AND RESCHEDULED 

Due to the unprecedented circumstances surrounding the coronavirus, the spring leg of Dan + Shay The (Arena) Tour has been postponed. The tour has been rescheduled, and previously purchased tickets will be honored for all dates as outlined below. Originally, the group was supposed to play at Fiserv Forum on April 11, and now they will play on August 28, 2020 at the Fiserv Forum. 

12:36 pm NHL PAUSES SEASON

National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman released the following statement regarding the current season.

11:30 am GOV EVERS DECLARES PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY 

The Governor has declared a public health emergency in response to new cases of COVID-19. Just this week, Wisconsin has had 5 new cases of COVID-19 and the cases in Illinois and Minnesota have been increasing. There are also 37 Wisconsin residents returning from the Princess Cruise ship who may have been exposed and must go into self-quarantine for 14 days. 

“We have been working aggressively to slow the spread of COVID-19, and this declaration allows us to get the resources we need to continue to be proactive when it comes to protecting Wisconsinites,” said Gov. Evers. “It is the latest step in the work our state agencies have been doing around the clock with our health care partners to prepare for the possibility of COVID-19 becoming a global pandemic.”

11:29 am DEMOCRATIC DEBATE SUNDAY

The Democratic National Committee announced the Democratic debate scheduled for Sunday between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders will be moved from Arizona to Washington, DC. 

"Out of an abundance of caution and in order to reduce cross-country travel, all parties have decided that the best path forward is to hold Sunday's debate at CNN's studio in Washington, D.C., with no live audience," DNC communications director Xochitl Hinojosa said in a statement.

Univision's Jorge Ramos was supposed to be one of the moderators, but he may have been exposed to coronavirus and has stepped down. Univision's llia Calderon' will take his place. The other moderators are CNN's Dana Bash and Jake Tapper. The debate will still take place Sunday, March 15 at 8 pm on CNN.

10:49 am  BIG TEN CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT

Big Ten officials announced Thursday morning that the remaining games of the league's men's basketball tournament have been cancelled. Wisconsin was scheduled to play the winner of Rutgers and Michigan Friday at 11 a.m.

10:48 am WIAA

The WIAA is restricting attendance at high school basketball tournament games in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The guidelines for mass gatherings call for restriction of public events to 50-250 attendees, according to the WIAA. The girls' state basketball tournament is at the Resch Center in Green Bay from March 12-14 and the boys' state tournament is at the Kohl Center in Madison from March 19-21.

PRESIDENT TRUMP CANCELS EVENT IN WISCONSIN MARCH 19

President Donald Trump’s campaign has canceled an event in Wisconsin next week because of the coronavirus. The “Catholics for Trump” event was scheduled March 19 in Milwaukee.

Reelection campaign spokesman Tim Murtaugh tweeted the cancellation was made “out of an abundance of caution because of the coronavirus outbreak.”

Murtaugh said the event will be rescheduled.

NBA

Top officials in the NBA will discuss how to move forward with the season after putting it on hiatus because of the Coronavirus. The move came after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert tested positive. Donovan Mitchell also tested positive for COVID-19 Thursday morning.