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Coronavirus UpdatesIn recent weeks, the coronavirus outbreak has had a profound impact on countries around the world—and, increasingly, here in the United States. To contain the outbreak and avoid further illness, the Green Bay Press Gazette is sharing its content so that you can stay better informed. Check on this page frequently for continuous updates. "Translated into Spanish using Google translate with permission from the Green Bay Press-Gazette, who holds the copyright to this story.”
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More Press Gazette articles (In Spanish) |
Thursday, April 2
County's coronavirus case total jumps to 17
Brown County now has 17 confirmed coronavirus patients, five more than it had a day earlier.
The county announced four new cases Thursday morning, and a fifth just after noon.
The new patients are:
Officials continue to emphasize the need for the public to follow good health practices, including social distancing and frequent hand-washing, to slow the spread of the virus. They say there's no need for the public to wear face masks outside their home, but said people can if they'd like.
Across the state, there have been 1,550 confirmed cases, 398 people hospitalized and 24 deaths as of Wednesday, state health officials reported. -Doug Schneider
The county announced four new cases Thursday morning, and a fifth just after noon.
The new patients are:
- A 43-year-old man from the Oneida Nation, tested about three weeks ago, who no longer exhibits symptoms and is believed to have recovered.
- A 65-year-old woman who had recently traveled to Europe.
- A 36-year-old woman employed in a "back office" role, with no patient contact, at a health care facility.
- A 32-year-old man believed to have contracted the virus via community spread.
- A 22-year-old man from the Oneida Nation. Health officials are working to determine how he might have been infected.
Officials continue to emphasize the need for the public to follow good health practices, including social distancing and frequent hand-washing, to slow the spread of the virus. They say there's no need for the public to wear face masks outside their home, but said people can if they'd like.
Across the state, there have been 1,550 confirmed cases, 398 people hospitalized and 24 deaths as of Wednesday, state health officials reported. -Doug Schneider
County's coronavirus case total jumps to 16
Brown County now has 16 confirmed coronavirus patients, four more than it had a day earlier.
The county offered no details about the new patients, but said it would brief media via conference call at noon.
As of Wednesday, at least four people with COVID-19 symptoms had been hospitalized in the county. No deaths have been reported in Brown.
Officials continue to emphasize the need for the public to follow good health practices, including social distancing and frequent hand-washing, to slow the spread of the virus,
Across the state, there have been 1,550 confirmed cases, 398 people hospitalized and 24 deaths as of Wednesday, state health officials reported. -Doug Schneider
The county offered no details about the new patients, but said it would brief media via conference call at noon.
As of Wednesday, at least four people with COVID-19 symptoms had been hospitalized in the county. No deaths have been reported in Brown.
Officials continue to emphasize the need for the public to follow good health practices, including social distancing and frequent hand-washing, to slow the spread of the virus,
Across the state, there have been 1,550 confirmed cases, 398 people hospitalized and 24 deaths as of Wednesday, state health officials reported. -Doug Schneider
Green Bay extends early voting hours
Green Bay extended hours for early voting at Green Bay Metro until 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday.
Voters can cast their ballots in the building’s main lobby between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Early voting at the station, 901 University Ave., was previously open until 2 p.m.
To manage the spread of germs, there will be protective glass between voters and election officials. The city will allow only four people in the waiting room at a time and asks voters to bring black ballpoint pens to mark their ballots. Single-use pens will also be available.
Residents must bring a valid photo ID to vote and proof of residence if they wish to register. -Haley BeMiller
Voters can cast their ballots in the building’s main lobby between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Early voting at the station, 901 University Ave., was previously open until 2 p.m.
To manage the spread of germs, there will be protective glass between voters and election officials. The city will allow only four people in the waiting room at a time and asks voters to bring black ballpoint pens to mark their ballots. Single-use pens will also be available.
Residents must bring a valid photo ID to vote and proof of residence if they wish to register. -Haley BeMiller
Prevea moves all respiratory care to Ashwaubenon clinic
Green Bay extended hours for early voting at Green Bay Metro until 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday.
Voters can cast their ballots in the building’s main lobby between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Early voting at the station, 901 University Ave., was previously open until 2 p.m.
To manage the spread of germs, there will be protective glass between voters and election officials. The city will allow only four people in the waiting room at a time and asks voters to bring black ballpoint pens to mark their ballots. Single-use pens will also be available.
Residents must bring a valid photo ID to vote and proof of residence if they wish to register. -Haley BeMiller
Voters can cast their ballots in the building’s main lobby between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Early voting at the station, 901 University Ave., was previously open until 2 p.m.
To manage the spread of germs, there will be protective glass between voters and election officials. The city will allow only four people in the waiting room at a time and asks voters to bring black ballpoint pens to mark their ballots. Single-use pens will also be available.
Residents must bring a valid photo ID to vote and proof of residence if they wish to register. -Haley BeMiller
Prevea Health's Ashwaubenon clinic, 2502 S. Ashland Ave., will see only patients experiencing upper respiratory issues beginning Thursday afternoon. The move is in response to the coronavirus pandemic and aims to curb the spread of COVID-19 cases in the community.
Any Prevea patient with upper respiratory symptoms should visit the clinic, which remains open for urgent care appointments, too. Walk-in care is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Patients not experiencing upper respiratory symptoms can visit Prevea's four other Green Bay area health centers at: 3860 Monroe Road, in Ledgeview; 1601 Lawrence Drive, in De Pere; and 3021 Voyager Drive or 2793 Lineville Road in Green Bay. -Jeff Bollier
Any Prevea patient with upper respiratory symptoms should visit the clinic, which remains open for urgent care appointments, too. Walk-in care is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Patients not experiencing upper respiratory symptoms can visit Prevea's four other Green Bay area health centers at: 3860 Monroe Road, in Ledgeview; 1601 Lawrence Drive, in De Pere; and 3021 Voyager Drive or 2793 Lineville Road in Green Bay. -Jeff Bollier
Pet food company donates $100,000 to nonprofits
A local pet-food manufacturer is donating $100,000 to area nonprofits including food pantries, shelters and other community outreach organizations.
Carnivore Meat Company of Green Bay is donating the money as part of the Covid-19 community response, and it is challenging other businesses to do the same.
The company is kicking off the “Vital Relief Challenge,” an effort to encourage other business owners and CEOs throughout the country, to donate to their local communities.
“It is our hope this challenge will spread faster than the virus,” said Carnivore CEO and owner Lanny Viegut. - Paul Srubas
Carnivore Meat Company of Green Bay is donating the money as part of the Covid-19 community response, and it is challenging other businesses to do the same.
The company is kicking off the “Vital Relief Challenge,” an effort to encourage other business owners and CEOs throughout the country, to donate to their local communities.
“It is our hope this challenge will spread faster than the virus,” said Carnivore CEO and owner Lanny Viegut. - Paul Srubas
WEDC: Flower shops OK for contactless delivery only
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. gave flower shops the OK to resume contactless delivery this week. Though their retail stores remain closed, Green Bay area shops resumed taking online orders on March 31.
Broadway's Petal Pusher notified customers of the update in a Facebook post that notes staff will contact recipients ahead of time to make sure they're okay with receiving the delivery. It will also sanitize all surfaces and staff will wear gloves during assembly.
De Pere's Buds 'n Blooms announced its "Ding 'n Dash" service would resume. The post also provided shoppers with a list of health and safety precautions staff would take to protect the health and safety of employees and customers. -Jeff Bollier
Broadway's Petal Pusher notified customers of the update in a Facebook post that notes staff will contact recipients ahead of time to make sure they're okay with receiving the delivery. It will also sanitize all surfaces and staff will wear gloves during assembly.
De Pere's Buds 'n Blooms announced its "Ding 'n Dash" service would resume. The post also provided shoppers with a list of health and safety precautions staff would take to protect the health and safety of employees and customers. -Jeff Bollier
Wednesday, April 1
Green Bay gives bars and restaurants a break on liquor licenses
Licensed bars and restaurants in Green Bay will pay less to renew their liquor licenses this year in a move intended to relieve the burden on businesses hurt by the coronavirus pandemic.
The Green Bay City Council voted unanimously on Wednesday to reduce fees for Class B beer and liquor license renewals for the 2020-21 licensing period to $50 instead of $500. Those with a beer-only license won’t pay anything. They normally pay $100.
Establishments with Class B licenses tend to be restaurants and bars that allow on-site alcohol consumption. City officials said those businesses are taking a particularly hard hit from Gov. Tony Evers’ stay-at-home order that required non-essential businesses to close and restaurants to adjust their operations to carry-out and delivery only if they want to stay open.
The council’s decision Wednesday comes just months after the City Council raised the cost of liquor licenses.
“People are hurting,” said Alderman Randy Scannell. “They’re looking for assistance from their government … I think we can do our part and help out as much as we can.”
Also Wednesday, the council tweaked a policy to ensure public officials can stay in office until their successors are elected. The change aims to prevent any vacancies on the City Council if the state alters next week’s election because of COVID-19 concerns.
-Haley BeMiller
The Green Bay City Council voted unanimously on Wednesday to reduce fees for Class B beer and liquor license renewals for the 2020-21 licensing period to $50 instead of $500. Those with a beer-only license won’t pay anything. They normally pay $100.
Establishments with Class B licenses tend to be restaurants and bars that allow on-site alcohol consumption. City officials said those businesses are taking a particularly hard hit from Gov. Tony Evers’ stay-at-home order that required non-essential businesses to close and restaurants to adjust their operations to carry-out and delivery only if they want to stay open.
The council’s decision Wednesday comes just months after the City Council raised the cost of liquor licenses.
“People are hurting,” said Alderman Randy Scannell. “They’re looking for assistance from their government … I think we can do our part and help out as much as we can.”
Also Wednesday, the council tweaked a policy to ensure public officials can stay in office until their successors are elected. The change aims to prevent any vacancies on the City Council if the state alters next week’s election because of COVID-19 concerns.
-Haley BeMiller
Oneida Nation has first confirmed COVID-19 case
The Oneida Nation has its first confirmed case of coronavirus within its jurisdiction.
The person has been isolated since developing symptoms, the nation said in a news release. Additional details about the person were not provided. Those who had close contact with the person will be notified.
"The Oneida Nation is committed to protect our citizens, employees, patients, customers, and the general public during this difficult time," the release said. "We want to reiterate that we need everyone to do their part in order to combat this pandemic.
"Please stay home, practice social distancing if you need to go out, wash hands frequently, and of course continue to support one another through sharing good words and prayer." - Natalie Brophy
The person has been isolated since developing symptoms, the nation said in a news release. Additional details about the person were not provided. Those who had close contact with the person will be notified.
"The Oneida Nation is committed to protect our citizens, employees, patients, customers, and the general public during this difficult time," the release said. "We want to reiterate that we need everyone to do their part in order to combat this pandemic.
"Please stay home, practice social distancing if you need to go out, wash hands frequently, and of course continue to support one another through sharing good words and prayer." - Natalie Brophy
Brown County confirms 12 cases
Brown County reported three more cases of coronavirus, bringing the total confirmed cases to 12.
One case confirmed Wednesday is a 33-year-old woman who traveled in the United States, said Ted Shove, a public information officer for Brown County Health and Human Services.
The other two — a 24-year-old man and 49-year-old woman — contracted the virus through community spread. Those two patients had not been self-isolating despite showing symptoms, but they are now in isolation, Shove said. Health officials are monitoring people who may have come into contact with them.
"There’s not been a great opportunity for them to inadvertently expose people," Shove said, noting the number of closed facilities due to Gov. Tony Evers' "safer-at-home" order.
The 24-year-old is the youngest person in Brown County to become sick.
Shove said four or five people in Brown County are hospitalized with COVID-19 symptoms. No patients have died, he said, and at least two are improving and poised to recover.
None of the confirmed cases involves health care workers, Shove said.
Statewide, the number of cases jumped 199 to 1,550, according to state Department of Health Services on Wednesday.
Thirty-one Wisconsin residents had died by early Wednesday afternoon, according to reports from state and county health departments and medical examiners.
State officials have said Wisconsin's coronavirus numbers may continue to climb for weeks before social distancing begins to flatten the curve. -Haley BeMiller and Peter Frank
One case confirmed Wednesday is a 33-year-old woman who traveled in the United States, said Ted Shove, a public information officer for Brown County Health and Human Services.
The other two — a 24-year-old man and 49-year-old woman — contracted the virus through community spread. Those two patients had not been self-isolating despite showing symptoms, but they are now in isolation, Shove said. Health officials are monitoring people who may have come into contact with them.
"There’s not been a great opportunity for them to inadvertently expose people," Shove said, noting the number of closed facilities due to Gov. Tony Evers' "safer-at-home" order.
The 24-year-old is the youngest person in Brown County to become sick.
Shove said four or five people in Brown County are hospitalized with COVID-19 symptoms. No patients have died, he said, and at least two are improving and poised to recover.
None of the confirmed cases involves health care workers, Shove said.
Statewide, the number of cases jumped 199 to 1,550, according to state Department of Health Services on Wednesday.
Thirty-one Wisconsin residents had died by early Wednesday afternoon, according to reports from state and county health departments and medical examiners.
State officials have said Wisconsin's coronavirus numbers may continue to climb for weeks before social distancing begins to flatten the curve. -Haley BeMiller and Peter Frank
Cellcom Green Bay Marathon changes to virtual event
Cellcom Green Bay Marathon event organizers announced Tuesday night that they were converting the May 16-17 race weekend into a virtual event as the country continues to fight the coronavirus pandemic, essentially wiping out the full marathon for the second straight year after flooding and standing water in 2019 made the 26.2-mile race impossible.
Participants who registered for the marathon, half marathon, relay, 5K or kids run will have the option of still receiving their bib, medal and T-shirt while running their miles safely on race day or whatever day they decide.
The race packet will be mailed the week of May 11. Those who do not want to do the virtual run can defer their entry fee to the 2021 race. For more information on how to participate in the virtual event or defer payment to next year, runners can visit the marathon website at www.cellcomgreenbaymarathon.com.
Postponing the race until the fall wasn’t realistic, not with the Green Bay Packers dominating attention at that point.
“Virtual races are even a thing on their own,” said Brighid Riordan, who is the vice president of the Cellcom Green Bay Marathon board. “As far as a pandemic is concerned, this tends to work. I think what it is, we all have had to readjust our expectations. We’ve had to readjust our normalcy and what we do.
“The beauty of this virtual event in a time like this is we know people have put in their training. Keeping something where there is a goal and something I need to work toward, and running is perfect for that because you can do it on your own. But then having that virtual connectiveness really adds to the motivation. It’s a really perfect fit for a time like this.” -Scott Venci
Participants who registered for the marathon, half marathon, relay, 5K or kids run will have the option of still receiving their bib, medal and T-shirt while running their miles safely on race day or whatever day they decide.
The race packet will be mailed the week of May 11. Those who do not want to do the virtual run can defer their entry fee to the 2021 race. For more information on how to participate in the virtual event or defer payment to next year, runners can visit the marathon website at www.cellcomgreenbaymarathon.com.
Postponing the race until the fall wasn’t realistic, not with the Green Bay Packers dominating attention at that point.
“Virtual races are even a thing on their own,” said Brighid Riordan, who is the vice president of the Cellcom Green Bay Marathon board. “As far as a pandemic is concerned, this tends to work. I think what it is, we all have had to readjust our expectations. We’ve had to readjust our normalcy and what we do.
“The beauty of this virtual event in a time like this is we know people have put in their training. Keeping something where there is a goal and something I need to work toward, and running is perfect for that because you can do it on your own. But then having that virtual connectiveness really adds to the motivation. It’s a really perfect fit for a time like this.” -Scott Venci
Tuesday, March 31
Brown County confirms 8th, 9th cases
Brown County now has nine people infected with the coronavirus, two more than it had on Monday.
County health officials on Tuesday said one of the new patients is a 69-year-old man who had recently traveled to New York state. The other new patient is a 69-year-old woman who was infected by "community spread"; officials are uncertain of the source.
Wisconsin's total cases stood at 1,351 on Tuesday, nearly triple what they were a week earlier.
Brown had reported its fifth and sixth cases on Friday. The seventh, identified on Monday, is a 50-year-old man with no known medical conditions. Health officials said that person had done some domestic travel. -Doug Schneider
County health officials on Tuesday said one of the new patients is a 69-year-old man who had recently traveled to New York state. The other new patient is a 69-year-old woman who was infected by "community spread"; officials are uncertain of the source.
Wisconsin's total cases stood at 1,351 on Tuesday, nearly triple what they were a week earlier.
Brown had reported its fifth and sixth cases on Friday. The seventh, identified on Monday, is a 50-year-old man with no known medical conditions. Health officials said that person had done some domestic travel. -Doug Schneider
Police warn of scam calls about CARES Act
The Green Bay Police Department urges people to be careful of fake phone calls from IRS. Police said they are receiving reports of people getting calls from someone impersonating an IRS employee.
The scammers are asking people for their bank account information and claim to be depositing money related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.
Congress passed the $2 trillion emergency aid package to financially support businesses and individuals deeply affected by the virus. The CARES Act includes one-time checks to individuals; loans and grants for small businesses; and funds for hospitals, community health centers, and airlines.
USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin is providing this story for free. For more coronavirus coverage, sign up for our daily newsletter. To support local journalism, consider subscribing to one of our publications.
Green Bay police said the IRS does not ask for account details over the phone so people should avoid giving out personal information on any suspicious calls.
Police said scams may increase and people should not answer the phone if they do not recognize the number. -Benita Mathew
The scammers are asking people for their bank account information and claim to be depositing money related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.
Congress passed the $2 trillion emergency aid package to financially support businesses and individuals deeply affected by the virus. The CARES Act includes one-time checks to individuals; loans and grants for small businesses; and funds for hospitals, community health centers, and airlines.
USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin is providing this story for free. For more coronavirus coverage, sign up for our daily newsletter. To support local journalism, consider subscribing to one of our publications.
Green Bay police said the IRS does not ask for account details over the phone so people should avoid giving out personal information on any suspicious calls.
Police said scams may increase and people should not answer the phone if they do not recognize the number. -Benita Mathew
Monday, March 30
Officer impersonations in safer-at-home traffic stops never happened
Both reports of a man pretending to be an officer conducting traffic stops for the safer-at-home order were false, Brown County deputies said.
The Brown County Sheriff's Office said last week they were looking for a man who conducted a traffic stop to see if a driver was violating Gov. Tony Evers' safer at home order. However, the person who originally reported the incident confessed it never happened, according to the sheriff's office.
A second incident of a man impersonating an officer in Allouez also turned out to be false.
Law enforcement officials say they will not conduct safer-at-home traffic stops for that reason, and people do not need permission paperwork to drive.
The sheriff’s office advises: “If you feel you are being stopped for that reason or any other suspicious ‘pulled over’ type” that doesn’t feel proper, you can:
The Brown County Sheriff's Office said last week they were looking for a man who conducted a traffic stop to see if a driver was violating Gov. Tony Evers' safer at home order. However, the person who originally reported the incident confessed it never happened, according to the sheriff's office.
A second incident of a man impersonating an officer in Allouez also turned out to be false.
Law enforcement officials say they will not conduct safer-at-home traffic stops for that reason, and people do not need permission paperwork to drive.
The sheriff’s office advises: “If you feel you are being stopped for that reason or any other suspicious ‘pulled over’ type” that doesn’t feel proper, you can:
- Proceed to a safe well-lit location slowly and in control.
- Comply and keep your hands visible.
- Call 911 to confirm dispatch has an officer at your location making that stop.
Brown County reports 7th COVID-19 case
Brown County is reporting seven positive cases of COVID-19, according to the state Department of Health Services.
The state website Monday showed seven cases after the county confirmed the fifth and sixth on Friday. The new patient is a 50-year-old man with no known medical conditions, a Brown County Health Department official said. He had done some domestic travel.
DHS reported 1,221 cases statewide on Monday, an increase of more than 100 since Sunday. The number of deaths increased by one to 14. -Haley BeMiller
The state website Monday showed seven cases after the county confirmed the fifth and sixth on Friday. The new patient is a 50-year-old man with no known medical conditions, a Brown County Health Department official said. He had done some domestic travel.
DHS reported 1,221 cases statewide on Monday, an increase of more than 100 since Sunday. The number of deaths increased by one to 14. -Haley BeMiller
CP announces closure through April 24
CP, an Allouez-based nonprofit that provides adult day services, early childhood education and care, and therapy to people with disabilities, announced the closure of its locations on Monday. It will remain closed until April 24. -Nusaiba Mizan
Friday, March 27
Oconto County reports its first case
The first case of COVID-19 in Oconto County has been confirmed, health official announced late Friday afternoon.
How the person became infected is under investigation, and individuals who may have had close contact with the patient will be contacted.
“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 Deb Konitzer, Oconto County health officer. -Kent Tempus
How the person became infected is under investigation, and individuals who may have had close contact with the patient will be contacted.
“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 Deb Konitzer, Oconto County health officer. -Kent Tempus
Two more coronavirus cases in Brown County
Brown County is up to six confirmed cases of coronavirus.
County health officials on Friday confirmed that two more people had been diagnosed. The fifth patient is a woman in her mid-40s who had not traveled recently.
The sixth is a man in his mid-60s who had recently traveled in the U.S.
-Doug Schneider
County health officials on Friday confirmed that two more people had been diagnosed. The fifth patient is a woman in her mid-40s who had not traveled recently.
The sixth is a man in his mid-60s who had recently traveled in the U.S.
-Doug Schneider
Prevea offering free COVID-19 screenings online
Prevea Health is offering free online screening and evaluation for COVID-19 via Prevea Virtual Care at www.prevea.com/virtualcare
Screenings assess symptoms and provide information about COVID-19. If additional care is needed, patients will be given directions about where to go for lab testing and follow-up care while maintaining a safe distance from others. If a patient needs additional lab tests or follow-up care, it will be billed to the patient’s insurance provider.
The service is available to anyone, Prevea patient or not, in Wisconsin.
Those with symptoms of COVID-19 — including fever, cough and shortness of breath — should stay home and use Prevea Virtual Care online or call (920) 431-1810 to receive a free assessment by phone. If symptoms are severe and life-threatening, call 911.
A patient who prefers to travel to the emergency room on his or her own should call the hospital prior to arrival to explain their symptoms. This provides the hospital time to prepare, and be sure that others will be protected from the potential spread of infectious disease. -Doug Schneider
Screenings assess symptoms and provide information about COVID-19. If additional care is needed, patients will be given directions about where to go for lab testing and follow-up care while maintaining a safe distance from others. If a patient needs additional lab tests or follow-up care, it will be billed to the patient’s insurance provider.
The service is available to anyone, Prevea patient or not, in Wisconsin.
Those with symptoms of COVID-19 — including fever, cough and shortness of breath — should stay home and use Prevea Virtual Care online or call (920) 431-1810 to receive a free assessment by phone. If symptoms are severe and life-threatening, call 911.
A patient who prefers to travel to the emergency room on his or her own should call the hospital prior to arrival to explain their symptoms. This provides the hospital time to prepare, and be sure that others will be protected from the potential spread of infectious disease. -Doug Schneider
Marinette County confirms first coronavirus case
Add Marinette County to the list of Wisconsin communities to have a confirmed case of coronavirus. Sheriff Jerry Sauve confirmed the news in a video posted to Facebook on Friday, but provided no details about the patient.
He also said his deputies are not conducting coronavirus-related traffic stops, nor are they asking drivers for travel papers.
-Doug Schneider
He also said his deputies are not conducting coronavirus-related traffic stops, nor are they asking drivers for travel papers.
-Doug Schneider
Thursday, March 26
Allouez miffed at hand sanitizer theft
Allouez village staff are miffed that an early voter on Wednesday made off with a bottle of hand sanitizer.
About 50 people voted on Wednesday, but the offender should not feel safe in a crowd. It wasn’t a crowd, and besides … well … this Allouez Facebook posts explains it pretty well:
“To the resident voting absentee in our office today who felt entitled to take the bottle of hand sanitizer, of which we have a limited supply, and is needed by all voters, kindly return it today. Reminder we have your name (you voted) and you are on camera.”
So, consider that a shot across the bow to others who might contemplate helping themselves to an entire bottle instead of before and after squirts.
About 50 people voted on Wednesday, but the offender should not feel safe in a crowd. It wasn’t a crowd, and besides … well … this Allouez Facebook posts explains it pretty well:
“To the resident voting absentee in our office today who felt entitled to take the bottle of hand sanitizer, of which we have a limited supply, and is needed by all voters, kindly return it today. Reminder we have your name (you voted) and you are on camera.”
So, consider that a shot across the bow to others who might contemplate helping themselves to an entire bottle instead of before and after squirts.
Wednesday, March 25
Green Bay Schools Continues to Provide Meals as an Essential Service
Under Governor Evers' Safer at Home Order, the Green Bay Area School District's Food Service will continue to provide meals for families at the 13 meal pick-up sites. This is considered an essential service. Please share this message widely.
The Green Bay Area Public School district has a high percentage of Latino families that go to Tank Elementary, therefore we think is important to provide additional support and communicate properly. Tank Elementary will now be a meal pick-up site. Starting tomorrow meals will be served between 9:00-10:30 a.m.
The Green Bay Area Public School district has a high percentage of Latino families that go to Tank Elementary, therefore we think is important to provide additional support and communicate properly. Tank Elementary will now be a meal pick-up site. Starting tomorrow meals will be served between 9:00-10:30 a.m.
Brown County confirms fourth COVID-19 case
A fourth person in Brown County is confirmed to have been infected with the coronavirus, local health officials announced Wednesday afternoon.
Officials offered no details about the patient, but a warning in the press statement mentons people between 18 and 30.
"Younger people, particularly those who are ages 18 to 30, are not immune to COVID-19,” Debbie Armbruster, De Pere health officer, said in the statement. “Anyone can contract COVID-19. It’s important for everyone, including young and healthy people, to practice social distancing.”
The county's third confirmed case, announced earlier this week, involved a person who had been traveling.
Officials offered no details about the patient, but a warning in the press statement mentons people between 18 and 30.
"Younger people, particularly those who are ages 18 to 30, are not immune to COVID-19,” Debbie Armbruster, De Pere health officer, said in the statement. “Anyone can contract COVID-19. It’s important for everyone, including young and healthy people, to practice social distancing.”
The county's third confirmed case, announced earlier this week, involved a person who had been traveling.
You do not need special papers to move about
ReadyWisconsin is trying to stop the rumor that you need special papers to drive to work. You don't. Gov. Tony Evers' Safer at Home order, which went into effect at 8 a.m. today, doesn't require "special papers or credentials to drive to work. If you see posts or tweets about this, let the sender know it's FALSE," ReadyWisconsin said in a Facebook post today.
ReadyWisconsin provides preparedness information for state residents. It's part of the Department of Military Affairs in the Division of Emergency Management and serves as a national public service campaign to education residents to prepare for and respond to emergencies.
The Brown County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday there will not be checkpoints, but those refusing to comply with the order could be referred to prosecutors for charges.
To help combat the rumors, ReadyWisconsin directed people to FEMA's Coronavirus Rumor Control page.
And the governor's office has issued a Safer at Home FAQ. It answers the question about documentation to leave home: "Individuals do not need special permission to leave their homes, but they must comply with this order as to when it is permissible to leave home. Similarly, if a business is an essential business or operation as outlined in this order, it does not need documentation or certification to continue work that is done in compliance with this order."
ReadyWisconsin provides preparedness information for state residents. It's part of the Department of Military Affairs in the Division of Emergency Management and serves as a national public service campaign to education residents to prepare for and respond to emergencies.
The Brown County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday there will not be checkpoints, but those refusing to comply with the order could be referred to prosecutors for charges.
To help combat the rumors, ReadyWisconsin directed people to FEMA's Coronavirus Rumor Control page.
And the governor's office has issued a Safer at Home FAQ. It answers the question about documentation to leave home: "Individuals do not need special permission to leave their homes, but they must comply with this order as to when it is permissible to leave home. Similarly, if a business is an essential business or operation as outlined in this order, it does not need documentation or certification to continue work that is done in compliance with this order."
Green Bay Police say there is no curfew, no checkpoints, no random stops
The Green Bay Police Department sent out Nixle alerts and posted to Facebook to dispel some of the rumors regarding Gov. Tony Evers' Safer at Home order. There is no curfew; there are no police checkpoints. You can read an FAQ about Ever's order here. From Police Chief Andrew J. Smith, here are some important points about the Safer at Home order:
- We will not be setting up checkpoints of any kind.
- We are not randomly stopping vehicles to determine the occupants’ reason for travel based on the Safer at Home Order. Officers still have to have a valid reason for a traffic stop. Policing Constitutionally is not negotiable.
- We have a procedure in place to review, investigate, and deploy resources regarding complaints of violations by businesses or illegal large gatherings.
- There is no new curfew. The juvenile nighttime curfew that has been in effect for years is still in effect. Juveniles need to be home by 10 p.m.
- If we come into contact with a group of people (10+) we will ask for voluntary compliance and for the group to disperse.
- If we respond to a business that is not essential, we educate the owner and ask for voluntary compliance.
- Officers have the discretion to charge violators through the Brown County District Attorney Office for Safer at Home Order violations.
- Employees do not need a letter from their employer to drive back and forth from work.
- The Brown County Sheriff's Office said it received a report of someone impersonating a law enforcement officer and "conducting a traffic stop to check the "Safer at Home" status of the driver. Be advised, Brown County WILL NOT be conducting compliance checks for this reason."
Tuesday, March 24
Department of Workforce Development closes job centers, online and phone services continue
All Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development job centers will be closed starting Wednesday to comply with Gov. Tony Evers' "Safer at Home" emergency order. Online and phone services will continue.
Individuals seeking to file for unemployment compensation can go online to apply the week they become unemployed. They will have to file a weekly claim each week they need benefits.
The phone number for northeastern Wisconsin, including Brown, Door, Florence, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, and Sheboygan counties is (920) 448-6760.
The Job Center can be emailed at JobCenterofWisconsin@dwd.wi.gov. Additional information regarding COVID-19 and DWD operations is online. -Nusaiba Mizan
Individuals seeking to file for unemployment compensation can go online to apply the week they become unemployed. They will have to file a weekly claim each week they need benefits.
The phone number for northeastern Wisconsin, including Brown, Door, Florence, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, and Sheboygan counties is (920) 448-6760.
The Job Center can be emailed at JobCenterofWisconsin@dwd.wi.gov. Additional information regarding COVID-19 and DWD operations is online. -Nusaiba Mizan
Brown County Sheriff's Office encourages voluntary compliance with governor's order
The Brown County Sheriff’s Office is asking for voluntary compliance and common sense from everybody regarding the state’s “Safer at Home” status.
The sheriff’s office will not put checkpoints in place, but those refusing to comply with Gov. Tony Evers’ order could be referred to prosecutors for charges, the office said in a press release.
The office has been fielding phone calls from business owners and citizens about what is or is not permitted under Evers’ order.
The sheriff’s office asks that people with questions go instead to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency or the state's Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.
Additional questions can be addressed to the Brown County Health Department at 920-448-6400.
The sheriff’s office asks people use common sense in determining what activities and travel are allowed under the order. They need to determine whether the activity is essential, involving food, medication or health care. If the answer is yes, they need to respect social distancing while doing the essential duties, the sheriff’s office said in a press release.
“Take advantage of pickup and drive-through services when available,” the office said.
People are not required to remain in their homes all hours, the office said.
“You are allowed and encouraged to go outside, take a walk/run, play with your children, exercise your dog, etc.,” the press release says. “Just be sure to respect personal distancing.
“You should NOT be taking your children to the playground to play with other children nor scheduling play dates and visiting others’ homes.” -Paul Srubas
The sheriff’s office will not put checkpoints in place, but those refusing to comply with Gov. Tony Evers’ order could be referred to prosecutors for charges, the office said in a press release.
The office has been fielding phone calls from business owners and citizens about what is or is not permitted under Evers’ order.
The sheriff’s office asks that people with questions go instead to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency or the state's Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.
Additional questions can be addressed to the Brown County Health Department at 920-448-6400.
The sheriff’s office asks people use common sense in determining what activities and travel are allowed under the order. They need to determine whether the activity is essential, involving food, medication or health care. If the answer is yes, they need to respect social distancing while doing the essential duties, the sheriff’s office said in a press release.
“Take advantage of pickup and drive-through services when available,” the office said.
People are not required to remain in their homes all hours, the office said.
“You are allowed and encouraged to go outside, take a walk/run, play with your children, exercise your dog, etc.,” the press release says. “Just be sure to respect personal distancing.
“You should NOT be taking your children to the playground to play with other children nor scheduling play dates and visiting others’ homes.” -Paul Srubas
Gov issues Safer at Home order
Gov. Tony Evers on Tuesday issued a Safer at Home order with the goal of keeping people in their homes to limit the spread of coronavirus in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin becomes the 17th state in the nation to order restrictions as the number of cases of coronavirus grow to more than 33,000 nationwide.
The order takes effect at 8 a.m. Wednesday. It forces the closure of all workplaces that aren't providing what are deemed essential services — putting even more people in Wisconsin at risk of being laid off as Evers and health officials seek to preserve health and prevent more deaths.
Read the story here for free.
Wisconsin becomes the 17th state in the nation to order restrictions as the number of cases of coronavirus grow to more than 33,000 nationwide.
The order takes effect at 8 a.m. Wednesday. It forces the closure of all workplaces that aren't providing what are deemed essential services — putting even more people in Wisconsin at risk of being laid off as Evers and health officials seek to preserve health and prevent more deaths.
Read the story here for free.
Northwoods tourist counties to cabin owners: Stay home
In an effort to prevent COVID-19 from continuing its wildfire-like spread, authorities in at least three northern Wisconsin counties are asking people who own cabins or other secondary homes in their areas to stay away.
Vilas and Oneida counties each issued cross-county travel advisories in response to the public health emergencies brought on by the highly contagious COVID-19 virus.
"Vilas County is recommending you stay in your home area if you have a seasonal or second home in Vilas County. Due to our very limited infrastructure, please do not visit us now," officials in that county, which includes vacation hot spot Eagle River, announced with a news release.
Oneida County, home of the Minocqua area, issued a statement with nearly identical language.
Bayfield County followed suit with a similar advisory on Monday, making the announcement on its government Facebook page.
Read the full story for free here. -Keith Uhlig
Vilas and Oneida counties each issued cross-county travel advisories in response to the public health emergencies brought on by the highly contagious COVID-19 virus.
"Vilas County is recommending you stay in your home area if you have a seasonal or second home in Vilas County. Due to our very limited infrastructure, please do not visit us now," officials in that county, which includes vacation hot spot Eagle River, announced with a news release.
Oneida County, home of the Minocqua area, issued a statement with nearly identical language.
Bayfield County followed suit with a similar advisory on Monday, making the announcement on its government Facebook page.
Read the full story for free here. -Keith Uhlig
Child care workers deemed essential, on front lines
Child care providers are on the front lines of a global health crisis, as child care programs are deemed an essential service that the state is allowing to remain open.
After Gov. Tony Evers ordered all K-12 schools across Wisconsin to shutter in an attempt to curb the spread of coronavirus, some large child care centers followed suit. But the state Department of Children and Families is encouraging child care facilities to stay open as long as they can by offering guidance, suspending some licensing regulations on day care facilities and providing supplies to those in need.
Staying open comes with challenges. Evers last week also issued a new restriction on child care centers: No more than 50 children and 10 staff members can be present at the same time. That means child care centers may have to turn "non-essential" families away and cut staff or, at least, limit their hours.
Evers also asked providers to prioritize families of health care workers and essential service providers, and asked parents stay home and care for their children if they're able, because it means more spots could open up for families in need.
Read how the orders are affecting child care providers. -Samantha West
After Gov. Tony Evers ordered all K-12 schools across Wisconsin to shutter in an attempt to curb the spread of coronavirus, some large child care centers followed suit. But the state Department of Children and Families is encouraging child care facilities to stay open as long as they can by offering guidance, suspending some licensing regulations on day care facilities and providing supplies to those in need.
Staying open comes with challenges. Evers last week also issued a new restriction on child care centers: No more than 50 children and 10 staff members can be present at the same time. That means child care centers may have to turn "non-essential" families away and cut staff or, at least, limit their hours.
Evers also asked providers to prioritize families of health care workers and essential service providers, and asked parents stay home and care for their children if they're able, because it means more spots could open up for families in need.
Read how the orders are affecting child care providers. -Samantha West
Monday, March 23
Bellin Urgent Care in Bellevue closed until further notice
Bellin Health Urgent Care, 3263 Eaton Road, in Bellevue, has been closed until further notice.
The health care provider announced the closure in a Facebook post, saying it was necessary to reallocate resources toward opening a respiratory clinic in west De Pere. -Jeff Bollier
The health care provider announced the closure in a Facebook post, saying it was necessary to reallocate resources toward opening a respiratory clinic in west De Pere. -Jeff Bollier
Sunday, March 22
Parking restrictions in Ashwaubenon no longer being enforced
Ashwaubenon Public Safety is no longer enforcing parking restrictions, it announced Sunday.
"We understand there are many people who are now at home because of these difficult times and we want to make this less burdensome for those who may have parking limitations," the police department said.
In case of snow, people should still follow the no parking restrictions so crews can clear the streets.
-Benita Mathew
"We understand there are many people who are now at home because of these difficult times and we want to make this less burdensome for those who may have parking limitations," the police department said.
In case of snow, people should still follow the no parking restrictions so crews can clear the streets.
-Benita Mathew
Friday, March 20
UW-Green Bay cancels May graduation ceremony
The spring graduation ceremony for University of Wisconsin-Green Bay students has been canceled, the university announced Friday.
The ceremony was scheduled for May 16. The university is "working to re-imagine a celebration honoring graduates."
"While we are cancelling the on-campus ceremony, make no mistake: UW-Green Bay will find a way to celebrate our students and their accomplishments following the end of this semester. There may not be an in-person ceremony, but there will be a celebration,” interim Chancellor Sheryl Van Gruensven said.
- Natalie Brophy
The ceremony was scheduled for May 16. The university is "working to re-imagine a celebration honoring graduates."
"While we are cancelling the on-campus ceremony, make no mistake: UW-Green Bay will find a way to celebrate our students and their accomplishments following the end of this semester. There may not be an in-person ceremony, but there will be a celebration,” interim Chancellor Sheryl Van Gruensven said.
- Natalie Brophy
Limited bus service resumes Monday morning
Green Bay Metro said it will resume limited bus service at 6:45 a.m. Monday after putting safety measures in place to protect employees and riders health. The city asks that you only make trips that are absolutely necessary, though.
Routes 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13 and 14 will operate from 6:45 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Saturday.
Routes 5, 10, 15, 16, 17 and 18 will be operated by demand only, meaning riders must call (920) 448-3450, press Option 1, then Option 1 again, to request service at least two hours in advance of needing a ride.
Buses will be free for everyone, but they will have a limit of six-passengers at a time. Only one passenger who needs to use the Quantum wheel chair device can be on a bus at a time .
For full details, see Green Bay Metro's full announcement here.
Routes 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13 and 14 will operate from 6:45 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Saturday.
Routes 5, 10, 15, 16, 17 and 18 will be operated by demand only, meaning riders must call (920) 448-3450, press Option 1, then Option 1 again, to request service at least two hours in advance of needing a ride.
Buses will be free for everyone, but they will have a limit of six-passengers at a time. Only one passenger who needs to use the Quantum wheel chair device can be on a bus at a time .
For full details, see Green Bay Metro's full announcement here.
Fire department seeks supplies
The Green Bay Metro Fire Department is asking the community to donate supplies it is low on.
"There is a national shortage of personal protective equipment currently for first responders. Our organization’s supplies are critically low at this time," the fire department said in a Facebook post.
The items the department is looking for include:
"There is a national shortage of personal protective equipment currently for first responders. Our organization’s supplies are critically low at this time," the fire department said in a Facebook post.
The items the department is looking for include:
- N95 masks (if you don’t know what an N95 is, then you don’t have any)
- Disposable surgical gowns or covers
- Disinfectant for ambulance decontamination
- Disinfectant wipes
- Hand sanitizer
Wisconsin Humane Society Green Bay Campus, Happily Ever After switch to pet adoption by appointment only
The Wisconsin Humane Society Green Bay Campus and Happily Ever After Animal Sanctuary have temporarily ended walk-in hours and switched to pet adoptions by appointment.
Available animals will continue to be updated in real time on the Wisconsin Humane Society’s website at wihumane.org. People interested in setting up a time to meet an animal at the shelter, 1830 Radisson St., should call 920-469-3110.
The Wisconsin Humane Society expressed an urgent need for people to adopt and foster animals, particularly cats, at its Green Bay and Milwaukee campuses so animals don’t have to wait it out at the shelter during the coronavirus outbreak.
All adoptions are closed until further notice at the Door County Campus in Sturgeon Bay.
Happily Ever After is limiting appointments to “guests that are seriously considering adoption in the near term.” Appointments must be made in advance at HEA’s Green Bay Adoption Center, 2255 Fox Heights Lane, in Ashwaubenon, and its sanctuary in Marion.
To book an appointment or submit an application to help speed up the adoption process, visit heanokill.org.
- Kendra Meinert
Available animals will continue to be updated in real time on the Wisconsin Humane Society’s website at wihumane.org. People interested in setting up a time to meet an animal at the shelter, 1830 Radisson St., should call 920-469-3110.
The Wisconsin Humane Society expressed an urgent need for people to adopt and foster animals, particularly cats, at its Green Bay and Milwaukee campuses so animals don’t have to wait it out at the shelter during the coronavirus outbreak.
All adoptions are closed until further notice at the Door County Campus in Sturgeon Bay.
Happily Ever After is limiting appointments to “guests that are seriously considering adoption in the near term.” Appointments must be made in advance at HEA’s Green Bay Adoption Center, 2255 Fox Heights Lane, in Ashwaubenon, and its sanctuary in Marion.
To book an appointment or submit an application to help speed up the adoption process, visit heanokill.org.
- Kendra Meinert
HSHS hospitals revise visitor restrictions to take affect Saturday
Visitors will not be allowed starting at 7 a.m. Saturday at HSHS St. Vincent's Hospital, St. Vincent's Children Hospital, St. Mary's Hospital Medical Center, St. Clare Memorial Hospital, and Libertas Treatment Center.
The only exception to this policy is one approved adult visitor who is cold/flu symptom free. The following are the circumstances in which a patient is allowed a visitor, according to the HSHS news release:
The only exception to this policy is one approved adult visitor who is cold/flu symptom free. The following are the circumstances in which a patient is allowed a visitor, according to the HSHS news release:
- Obstetrical patients may have one support person.
- Pediatric patients younger than 18 may have one parent or guardian present.
- Patients nearing end-of-life may have one support person; extenuating circumstances will be evaluated.
- Outpatient services patients should ask their support person to wait in the car until their service is complete.
- Patients having surgery may have one support person.
- Patients seeking emergency care may have one support person who is required to be in the patient room at all times; extenuating circumstances will be evaluated.
- St. Vincent: (920) 433-0111
- St. Mary’s: (920) 498-4200
- St. Clare Memorial : (920) 846-3444
State trail use in Brown County is fee-optional during pandemic
Use of the state’s walking trails in Brown County will be on a “voluntary fee” basis until further notice, and trail maintenance has been suspended as coronavirus concerns persist.
Users may support the trails by making a payment at www.browncountyparks.org, but payment is not required. Pay envelopes along the trail have been removed for the time being.
This applies to the Devils’ River, Fox River and Mountain-Bay state trails, county parks officials said in a news release.
The county said trail use seems to have increased during the pandemic. They remind walkers to practice social distancing while using the trails and other recreation facilities.
-Doug Schneider
Users may support the trails by making a payment at www.browncountyparks.org, but payment is not required. Pay envelopes along the trail have been removed for the time being.
This applies to the Devils’ River, Fox River and Mountain-Bay state trails, county parks officials said in a news release.
The county said trail use seems to have increased during the pandemic. They remind walkers to practice social distancing while using the trails and other recreation facilities.
-Doug Schneider
Thursday, March 19
Packers cancel Tailgate Tour, will make donations
The Green Bay Packers canceled the 15th annual Tailgate Tour scheduled for May 15-17. A number of Packers players and former players were scheduled to make stops in La Crosse, Madison and Brookfield to meet fans and raise money for nonprofit groups.
Instead, the Packers will donate $25,000 to each organization. They are Habitat for Humanity in La Crosse, Special Olympics Wisconsin, and Stars and Stripes Honor Flight.
The cancellation was made in adherance to government recommendations for combating the new coronavirus.
"While we realize this is the most responsible path forward, we are saddened to miss the opportunity to greet fans throughout the state of Wisconsin," said Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy in a release.
Scheduled for this year's tour were Nick Collins, James Jones, John Kuhn, Tramon Williams, Brandon Jackson, James Starks and Murphy.
The Packers closed Lambeau Field and Titletown District for at least two weeks beginning March 13, and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame Inc. induction ceremony for Charles Woodson and Al Harris was postponed to August.
-Richard Ryman
Instead, the Packers will donate $25,000 to each organization. They are Habitat for Humanity in La Crosse, Special Olympics Wisconsin, and Stars and Stripes Honor Flight.
The cancellation was made in adherance to government recommendations for combating the new coronavirus.
"While we realize this is the most responsible path forward, we are saddened to miss the opportunity to greet fans throughout the state of Wisconsin," said Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy in a release.
Scheduled for this year's tour were Nick Collins, James Jones, John Kuhn, Tramon Williams, Brandon Jackson, James Starks and Murphy.
The Packers closed Lambeau Field and Titletown District for at least two weeks beginning March 13, and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame Inc. induction ceremony for Charles Woodson and Al Harris was postponed to August.
-Richard Ryman
Meijer, Festival adjust hours
Meijer announced it will close its stores overnight beginning March 20 to allow employees to thoroughly clean the stores and restock shelves.
Beginning Friday, Meijer locations, including the one at 2015 Shawano Ave., will close at 10 p.m. and reopen at 8 a.m. The store and pharmacy will also offer an hour of dedicated shopping time for seniors and customers with chronic conditions from 7-8 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Festival Foods also updated its store hours on Thursday. In a media release, the grocer announced its stores would open at 5 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. daily, beginning tonight. The change applies to all Festival locations in the Green Bay area.
Beginning Friday, Meijer locations, including the one at 2015 Shawano Ave., will close at 10 p.m. and reopen at 8 a.m. The store and pharmacy will also offer an hour of dedicated shopping time for seniors and customers with chronic conditions from 7-8 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Festival Foods also updated its store hours on Thursday. In a media release, the grocer announced its stores would open at 5 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. daily, beginning tonight. The change applies to all Festival locations in the Green Bay area.
Kohl's to close at 7 p.m., stay closed through April 1
Kohl's Corp. announced it will close all 1,100 of its U.S. stores, including Green Bay area locations in East Town Mall and Bay Park Square, at 7 p.m. local time tonight and stay closed at least until April 1.
Menomonee Falls-based Kohl's originally pared back store hours in response to the coronavirus pandemic, but announced Thursday it would close stores entirely. You can still shop at Kohls.com or on the retailer's app. The company announced it would provide affected employees with two weeks of pay.
Read more details here.
Menomonee Falls-based Kohl's originally pared back store hours in response to the coronavirus pandemic, but announced Thursday it would close stores entirely. You can still shop at Kohls.com or on the retailer's app. The company announced it would provide affected employees with two weeks of pay.
Read more details here.
Brown County Courthouse closed to public
The Brown County Courthouse closed to the public Thursday after a person who was present in and around the courthouse tested positive for the coronavirus.
Court officials said the courthouse and district attorney’s office will be cleaned to prevent the potential community spread of COVID-19. The courthouse and district attorney’s office will remain closed until public health officials decide the building is safe.
Court officials said the courthouse and district attorney’s office will be cleaned to prevent the potential community spread of COVID-19. The courthouse and district attorney’s office will remain closed until public health officials decide the building is safe.
Wednesday, March 18
How to access free meals
Families can pick up meals at the following locations. Parents can pick up meals on behalf of their children, who don't need to be present, and the district is asking people not to eat on site.
Meals are available to all children, as well as Green Bay School Districts students between the ages of 18-21.
Meals are available to all children, as well as Green Bay School Districts students between the ages of 18-21.
- Baird Elementary, 539 Laverne Drive, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Beaumont Elementary, 1505 Gatewood St., 9-10:30 a.m.
- Chappell Elementary, 205 N. Fisk St., 9-10:30 a.m.
- Eisenhower Elementary, 1770 Amy St., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Elmore Elementary, 615 Ethel Ave., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Franklin Middle School,1233 Lore Lane, noon-3 p.m.
- Howe Elementary, 525 S. Madison St., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- King Elementary, 1601 Dancing Dunes, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Langlade Elementary, 400 Broadview Drive, 9-10:30 a.m.
- McAuliffe Elementary, 2071 Emerald Drive, 9-10:30 a.m.
- Nicolet Elementary, 1309 Elm St., 9-10:30 a.m.
- Washington Middle School, 314 S. Baird St., noon-3 p.m.
CP closes facilities, including Green Bay location
CP will close its facilities in Green Bay, Kimberly and Two Rivers effective 5 p.m. Wednesday through April 3.
The organization provides therapy and other services for those with physical, sensory and cognitive conditions. Leaders will monitor developments related to COVID-19 in the coming weeks to determine if the facilities need to stay closed longer.
“We understand that families rely on CP to help with the care of their loved ones,” said Kristen Paquet, CP’s director of marketing and communications. “However, after much discussion, we feel closing is a necessary step in order to do our part to lessen the potential spread of the virus and to ensure people’s safety, which is our first priority.”
-Haley BeMiller
The organization provides therapy and other services for those with physical, sensory and cognitive conditions. Leaders will monitor developments related to COVID-19 in the coming weeks to determine if the facilities need to stay closed longer.
“We understand that families rely on CP to help with the care of their loved ones,” said Kristen Paquet, CP’s director of marketing and communications. “However, after much discussion, we feel closing is a necessary step in order to do our part to lessen the potential spread of the virus and to ensure people’s safety, which is our first priority.”
-Haley BeMiller
Fox Valley Technical College closed
All Fox Valley Technical College locations are closed and classes are resuming online, the college announced Wednesday.
This college will remain closed until further notice, as well as the Parent Child Center. Faculty and staff are working remotely.
"Although we don’t have answers to every question regarding current classes and training, we are doing everything possible with our varied offerings to continue our services as much as possible," the college said. "Our faculty and staff are continuing to work from their homes to accomplish this. We will communicate more information in the coming days and weeks."
- Natalie Brophy
This college will remain closed until further notice, as well as the Parent Child Center. Faculty and staff are working remotely.
"Although we don’t have answers to every question regarding current classes and training, we are doing everything possible with our varied offerings to continue our services as much as possible," the college said. "Our faculty and staff are continuing to work from their homes to accomplish this. We will communicate more information in the coming days and weeks."
- Natalie Brophy
St. Norbert College moves to online classes for rest of semester
St. Norbert College students will finish the spring semester online. The college's president, Brian Bruess, made the announcement Wednesday in a news release.
Students living on campus should plan to move out as soon as possible. The spring commencement will be rescheduled and the college, based in De Pere, is working on plan to refund students for room and meal plans.
St. Norbert employees working off campus will need to continue through March 27.
Those with questions are asked to email covid19response@snc.edu.
Bruess will hold virtual office hours from 3-4 p.m. Monday-Friday for the next two weeks. Students can email him.
Students living on campus should plan to move out as soon as possible. The spring commencement will be rescheduled and the college, based in De Pere, is working on plan to refund students for room and meal plans.
St. Norbert employees working off campus will need to continue through March 27.
Those with questions are asked to email covid19response@snc.edu.
Bruess will hold virtual office hours from 3-4 p.m. Monday-Friday for the next two weeks. Students can email him.
Green Bay-area malls closed
Both Bay Park Square and East Town Mall closed down on Tuesday after Gov. Tony Evers ordered all enclosed malls to cease operations.
On its website, Bay Park Square said it is "temporarily" closed, but that restaurants who offer takeout or delivery service may still be open. It encouraged consumers to check with those businesses to get their updated hours of operation.
"We are closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation related to COVID-19 with public health officials and will provide updates as they become available," said a statement posted to Bay Park Square's website by owner/operator Simon Property Group.
-Jeff Bollier
On its website, Bay Park Square said it is "temporarily" closed, but that restaurants who offer takeout or delivery service may still be open. It encouraged consumers to check with those businesses to get their updated hours of operation.
"We are closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation related to COVID-19 with public health officials and will provide updates as they become available," said a statement posted to Bay Park Square's website by owner/operator Simon Property Group.
-Jeff Bollier
The Department of Workforce Development is keeping job centers open
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development's job centers will remain open to serve job seekers and employers. Some sites across the state are closed due to their proximity to technical colleges and organizations that have closed. The Brown County Job Center at 301 N. Adams St. in Green Bay remains open. Its hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Job Center resource rooms have computers available for people seeking to apply for unemployment insurance. The number of applicants has increased as employers lay off or furlough workers. Job seekers can also look for obs at jobcenterofwisconsin.com.
Some applicants for unemployment compensation are required to participate in the state's re-employment services program, a program that helps applicants get back to work faster. The workshops for this program will be held remotely over phone.
A full list of open and closed job centers can be found online.
-Nusaiba Mizan
Job Center resource rooms have computers available for people seeking to apply for unemployment insurance. The number of applicants has increased as employers lay off or furlough workers. Job seekers can also look for obs at jobcenterofwisconsin.com.
Some applicants for unemployment compensation are required to participate in the state's re-employment services program, a program that helps applicants get back to work faster. The workshops for this program will be held remotely over phone.
A full list of open and closed job centers can be found online.
-Nusaiba Mizan
Request absentee ballots
Today is the deadline to register to vote online or by mail for April 7 election and presidential preference primary, according to the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
The election commission advises:
The election commission advises:
- Starting Thursday, registration is still available in person at your municipal clerk's office until the Friday before the election and on Election Day at the polling place.
- Voters should request an absentee ballot as soon as possible for April 7. The deadline is April 2, but do not wait.
- Request your absentee ballot online at https://myvote.wi.gov
Tuesday, March 17
Green Bay diocese suspends Mass
The Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is suspending public attendance at Mass until mid-April, Bishop David Ricken announced Tuesday.
Starting Friday, Catholics within the diocese’s 16 counties will no longer attend daily or weekend Mass. The diocese will review the situation in mid-April to determine whether that timeline should be extended.
Ricken will hold a 30-minute Mass every Sunday that will be broadcast on WFRV, Channel 5, at 10:30 a.m. Parishioners can also view Mass on WBAY, Channel 2, at 5:30 a.m. Sunday and on CW14 at 8 a.m, or listen to Relevant Radio, 1050 AM at 9 a.m.
-Haley BeMiller
Starting Friday, Catholics within the diocese’s 16 counties will no longer attend daily or weekend Mass. The diocese will review the situation in mid-April to determine whether that timeline should be extended.
Ricken will hold a 30-minute Mass every Sunday that will be broadcast on WFRV, Channel 5, at 10:30 a.m. Parishioners can also view Mass on WBAY, Channel 2, at 5:30 a.m. Sunday and on CW14 at 8 a.m, or listen to Relevant Radio, 1050 AM at 9 a.m.
-Haley BeMiller
Police department functioning at full speed but is closed to walk-in traffic
The Green Bay Police Department is staying as active as ever, but you can’t go there anymore.
Non-employees are barred from entering the station until further notice.
Meanwhile, officers will take reports over the phone and will try to investigate some incidents over the phone, rather than in person, When that’s not possible, they’ll encourage “social distancing” when conducting face-to-face inquiries, which may occasionally require them to ask citizens to step outside. Police won’t be conducting tours, ride-alongs, fingerprinting, nor will they be engaging in training and roll calls. They are encouraging residents to file reports online at report.gbpolice.org/ and are looking for ways for employees to work offsite when possible.
Non-employees are barred from entering the station until further notice.
Meanwhile, officers will take reports over the phone and will try to investigate some incidents over the phone, rather than in person, When that’s not possible, they’ll encourage “social distancing” when conducting face-to-face inquiries, which may occasionally require them to ask citizens to step outside. Police won’t be conducting tours, ride-alongs, fingerprinting, nor will they be engaging in training and roll calls. They are encouraging residents to file reports online at report.gbpolice.org/ and are looking for ways for employees to work offsite when possible.
Brown County Libraries close until further notice, but due dates are extended
Effective immediately, Brown County Library buildings are closed to the public, though the library remains open online.
Due dates are extended, fines and fees are suspended, and the renewal line (920-448-6263) will remain active. Book-drops will remain open, except Denmark’s. Reference services and account services will be available by phone or email.
Library programs and meeting room reservations are also all canceled pending further notice.
Due dates are extended, fines and fees are suspended, and the renewal line (920-448-6263) will remain active. Book-drops will remain open, except Denmark’s. Reference services and account services will be available by phone or email.
Library programs and meeting room reservations are also all canceled pending further notice.
Nonprofits provide $55K in COVID-19 relief funds and seek donations
Brown County United Way and the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation are collectively providing over $50,000 in emergency relief funds to support those impacted by COVID-19.
United Way is providing a seed investment of $30,000 and seeking additional donations from the community to help pay for day care, meals, transportation, hygiene products and other essentials. The Community Foundation activated a $25,000 grant and is also asking for donations.
“In light of the current public health emergency and Brown County United Way’s commitment to the health and well-being of every person in Brown County, we believe this is a very important action for us and our community to take,” United Way CEO Robyn Davis said in a statement. “This is a time for our community to come together and help each other out.”
The Community Foundation pledged to ensure all funds go directly to nonprofits working to help residents. Donations that exceed the need for COVID-19 will go toward future disaster relief.
To donate via Brown County United Way:
United Way is providing a seed investment of $30,000 and seeking additional donations from the community to help pay for day care, meals, transportation, hygiene products and other essentials. The Community Foundation activated a $25,000 grant and is also asking for donations.
“In light of the current public health emergency and Brown County United Way’s commitment to the health and well-being of every person in Brown County, we believe this is a very important action for us and our community to take,” United Way CEO Robyn Davis said in a statement. “This is a time for our community to come together and help each other out.”
The Community Foundation pledged to ensure all funds go directly to nonprofits working to help residents. Donations that exceed the need for COVID-19 will go toward future disaster relief.
To donate via Brown County United Way:
- Online at www.browncountyunitedway.org
- By mail: Brown County United Way, P.O. Box 1593, Green Bay, WI, 54305-1593, attention: Emergency Response Fund
- Online at www.ggbcf.org
- By mail: Greater Green Bay Community Foundation, 320 N. Broadway, Suite 260, Green Bay, WI 54303
Monday, March 16
Chicago Street Pub & Grill to offer free bag lunches to school-age kids beginning Wednesday
A De Pere-area business says it will offer free bagged lunches to school-age children on weekdays, beginning at 11 a.m. Wednesday.
Chicago Street Pub, Grill and Banquets said on Facebook that it will provide a sandwich (ham or turkey), and applesauce to any child in kindergarten through grade 12. This being Wisconsin, each child will also get some string cheese.
“We are so proud to be a part of this community and hope this can help in these trying times,” the business said on Facebook.
The offer is good weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. until further notice. The pub is at 1950 Dickinson Road in Ledgeview, just east of De Pere.
-Doug Schneider
Chicago Street Pub, Grill and Banquets said on Facebook that it will provide a sandwich (ham or turkey), and applesauce to any child in kindergarten through grade 12. This being Wisconsin, each child will also get some string cheese.
“We are so proud to be a part of this community and hope this can help in these trying times,” the business said on Facebook.
The offer is good weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. until further notice. The pub is at 1950 Dickinson Road in Ledgeview, just east of De Pere.
-Doug Schneider
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Green Bay asking for donations for care packages
The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Green Bay is looking for financial donations to create care packages for families in the area. The organization’s facilities will be closed until further notice. It will still be providing care packages including food, basic essentials, and activities to keep children engaged at home.
They will be delivered to the organization’s thousands of members and families, said interim executive director Eric Vanden Heuvel.
“During this time we are still committed to meeting the needs of our over 3,000 members that we serve in this community,” he said.
People can donate online at BGCGB.org/donate. All funds received this week will go to the care packages.
Anyone who wants a care package should call the clubhouse at 920-494-7090 before Wednesday.
- Benita Mathew
They will be delivered to the organization’s thousands of members and families, said interim executive director Eric Vanden Heuvel.
“During this time we are still committed to meeting the needs of our over 3,000 members that we serve in this community,” he said.
People can donate online at BGCGB.org/donate. All funds received this week will go to the care packages.
Anyone who wants a care package should call the clubhouse at 920-494-7090 before Wednesday.
- Benita Mathew
St. John's Homeless Shelter opens emergency shelter sites
St. John’s Homeless Shelter, 411 St. John St., will open two emergency shelter sites Wednesday to accommodate the record number of people using its services amid COVID-19. The shelter had 123 guests Sunday night, the shelter said in a news release.
The two sites will be at the shelter and a church downtown. The shelter created two sites instead of one to maintain social distancing and have smaller groups of guests. The Micah Center and Wellspring daytime centers will be closed while the emergency sites are open.
The shelter is asking community partners to donate or provide dinners for its guests. Anyone who can drive shelter guests to work should also email info@sjehs.org.
General donations will be limited. The shelter said it will only accept hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, masks, gloves, toilet paper, packaged foods, and paper products.
- Benita Mathew
The two sites will be at the shelter and a church downtown. The shelter created two sites instead of one to maintain social distancing and have smaller groups of guests. The Micah Center and Wellspring daytime centers will be closed while the emergency sites are open.
The shelter is asking community partners to donate or provide dinners for its guests. Anyone who can drive shelter guests to work should also email info@sjehs.org.
General donations will be limited. The shelter said it will only accept hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, masks, gloves, toilet paper, packaged foods, and paper products.
- Benita Mathew
Community spread of coronavirus confirmed with 17 cases in Dane County
Local health officials announced Tuesday that there are documented cases of the new coronavirus spreading through community transmission in Dane County.
Seventeen people in Dane County have been diagnosed with COVID-19, according to a news release, and no patients are hospitalized at this time.
Community spread occurs when the origin of the virus cannot be traced to travel history or previous contact with a confirmed case. State health officials announced Monday that this type of transmission was "likely" in the state, but did not say where.
LIVE UPDATES:The latest on coronavirus in Wisconsin
FULL COVERAGE: What you need to know about coronavirus in Wisconsin
UPDATING COVERAGE: Coronavirus worldwide
There is an "urgent" need for people to stay home and practice social distancing now that community transmission has occurred, Tuesday's news release said.
Director of Public Health Madison & Dane County Janel Heinrich said in the release that orders to limit public gatherings to under 50 people may need to be amended to be "more restrictive" as the situation evolves.
This story will be updated with new statewide information after the Department of Health Services media call at 1:30 p.m.
Contact Madeline Heim at 920-996-7266 or mheim@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @madeline_heim
Seventeen people in Dane County have been diagnosed with COVID-19, according to a news release, and no patients are hospitalized at this time.
Community spread occurs when the origin of the virus cannot be traced to travel history or previous contact with a confirmed case. State health officials announced Monday that this type of transmission was "likely" in the state, but did not say where.
LIVE UPDATES:The latest on coronavirus in Wisconsin
FULL COVERAGE: What you need to know about coronavirus in Wisconsin
UPDATING COVERAGE: Coronavirus worldwide
There is an "urgent" need for people to stay home and practice social distancing now that community transmission has occurred, Tuesday's news release said.
Director of Public Health Madison & Dane County Janel Heinrich said in the release that orders to limit public gatherings to under 50 people may need to be amended to be "more restrictive" as the situation evolves.
This story will be updated with new statewide information after the Department of Health Services media call at 1:30 p.m.
Contact Madeline Heim at 920-996-7266 or mheim@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @madeline_heim