Gov. Tim Walz adjusts COVID-19 restrictions
Four-week pause is replaced with new arrangements
Senior captain Danny Walsh and senior Benn Katzovitz warm up during Nordic captains’ practice. These practices were canceled due to CDC guidelines.
December 17, 2020
As COVID-19 cases rose in November, Gov. Tim Walz placed a four-week pause on indoor dining, fitness clubs, sports and other activities. However, because these rules are set to expire Dec. 18, Walz made revisions to his plan in a press conference Dec. 16.
“We’ll continue to monitor this, we’ll continue to make the decisions as Minnesotans to save our neighbors, and if we do so we can make a difference,” Walz said.
According to the Star Tribune, Walz will open outdoor dining and fitness centers with certain restrictions. Restaurants, bars and gyms are allowed 25% capacity, but pools, showers and fitness classes are not permitted till Jan. 4. Walz also will allow in-person learning for elementary schools starting Jan. 18.
In addition, sports may resume to practice only with no games Jan. 4; fitness centers can allow up to 25% capacity; gatherings can be up to 10 people from two households indoors or up to 15 people from three households outdoors. Junior Evan Donesky said he’s thrilled about gyms opening back up, however since masks are required while working out he’s uncertain if he will attend.
“I’m very excited for gyms to come back, I was routinely going almost every day working out,” Donesky said. “But I don’t know if I’m going to go because of the fact I have to wear a mask everywhere I go, while working out it’s pretty hard to breathe.”
Indoor entertainment venues such as theaters and museums are to remain closed until Jan. 10, but outdoor events are allowed to continue at 25% capacity, capped at 100 people.
In-person learning can resume, starting Jan. 18, at Minnesota elementary schools that conduct testing as well as enforcing staff to wear masks and shields.
According to senior Raegan Alexander, she isn’t satisfied with the decision made by Walz but she agreed that all sports should start off with practice.
“It’s disappointing, but I’m just thankful that we’ll get to start something,” Alexander said. “I know a big concern for a lot of people is starting abruptly and then going right into games because that can really take a big toll on your body especially not practicing for a while.”
According to freshman Hanna Wilsey, she is eager to get back with her team and rebuild bonds with everyone.
“I’m just glad we get to start again. I’ve missed my team a lot. I love the whole team dynamic that we have, all the practices are just so fun even when they’re really hard. I just miss the whole season,” Wilsey said.
The new order will take effect at midnight Dec. 19 and last until Jan. 11.
