Tri-County News

What you need to know … so far


By Jean Doran Matua, Editor

Information is changing with every press conference, news report, and business or government press release. Here’s what we know so far, in no particular order. This is by no means a comprehensive list, but it’s a summary of sorts of things that could matter most to our readers. As always, check with government sources for up-to-the-minute details.

Worldwide, as of Tuesday, March 24, there have been 423,142 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 18,906 deaths. 198,145 have recovered so far. Statistics for the United States include 54,916 total cases, 784 deaths, and 379 who have recovered. (If you love data, you can find worldwide information in interactive form at www.worldometers.info/coronavirus.)

Unemployment rules have changed in Minnesota. If you are laid off because of COVID-19, there are allowances for that. You should file right away, and the one-week wait period is waived right now. uimn.org

Utility (water, gas, electric) have agreed that they will not disconnect anyone during this COVID-19 crisis. Pay your bill if you can, of course.

The Minnesota Department of Health will have the most current information for Minnesota residents. www.health.state.mn.us.

The Minnesota coronavirus hotline number is (800) 657-3903, staffed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

REAL ID was set to be required this October for all air travel, border crossings with Canada and Mexico, and entry into federal facilities. This deadline has now been extended (no new deadline yet announced).

The 2020 Olympics that were set to begin in Tokyo in July have been postponed to some time in 2021. This is not only because it may still not be safe to fly internationally by then, but mainly because all international training facilities (and even local gyms) are currently closed.

There are loan and grand programs for small businesses affected by COVID-19, whether it’s for payroll or paying bills. (See the story on page 5 for more information.) The loans are at low interest, with repayment periods up to 30 years.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) has a website with all the information you need to know about symptoms, risk, social distancing, and more. The website is www.coronavirus.gov.

Most government offices (including cities and counties) are closed to the public. There may be staffers there working, but not directly with the public. When in doubt, call first. Public government meetings are often set up so that participants can call in, or can socially distance themselves from one another. Again, when in doubt, call to find out.

Schools in Minnesota are closed from March 18-27 so that teachers and staff can prepare for distance learning which will go into effect March 30. There’s no way of knowing yet if this will be for a few weeks, or for the rest of the school year. (See story on page 6 with information pertaining to schools at this time.)

Most, if not all, colleges have closed to in-person classes, and most students have been sent home. Colleges have shifted to online classes to begin after spring break.

Outdoor activities are great, if you’re feeling healthy, and if you practice social distancing. Walk, run, bike, and exercise. Now that spring has arrived, It’s a good idea to get out for some sunshine and fresh air every day and, as long as you’re healthy and keep your distance, it’s a good thing.

If you think you have COVID-19, call your doctor’s office; do not go to the Emergency Room. If you have a dental emergency, call your dentist; they’re open for emergencies only.

Most importantly: wash your hands, keep your distance, stay home if you can (especially if you’re sick, with anything), and stop touching your face.

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