Melissa Hall

I am native to Southern Minnesota, graduated from Albert Lea Senior High. After a brief stint living in Central Iowa, I made my way back to MN, and I don't plan on leaving any time soon. I have 2 children, my oldest graduated from Owatonna High School, and the youngest is in the Middle School here. I am a coach with Special Olympics and a member of the management team, a cause near and dear to my heart. I love reading, John Grisham anyone? Also, I enjoy medical dramas on TV, and I love watching the Law & Order Franchise shows....dun dun. If I'm not out and about somewhere, I love hosting get-togethers for my family and friends.

Criteria Minnesota Doctors Look at Before Testing for Novel Coronavirus

What are they looking for as they determine whether or not to test for COVID-19? Respiratory symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath).Travel history. Close contact with anyone with COVID-19 .Severe respiratory symptoms that require hospitalization. Not everyone with those symptoms will be tested for the virus.

Albert Lea Named One of Top 10 Worst Places to Live In Minnesota

Unfortunately, according to the gang at homesnacks, Albert Lea has joined the ranks with the likes of St. Paul and Minneapolis, as one of the top 10 worst places to live in Minnesota.

PETA Calls for Punxatawney Phil’s Retirement

Now, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is calling for Punxatawney Phil's retirement.

Police Sing ‘Stolen Things’ Parody Song Reminding People to Lock Car Doors [WATCH]

This is such a good reminder to not leave valuables in your vehicles and to make sure that they are locked.

[Watch] ‘SNL’ Pokes Fun at Wisconsin’s Bear Country

While this takes place in Wisconsin, you could actually place this skit in Northern Minnesota (the REAL God's Country) and it is still true.

Minnesota Projected to Be in the Top 10 For Holiday Spending

With the Holiday Season comes all of the gatherings, decorating, gift giving, and all of those things add up

Wisconsin Police Dept Not Fooled By Cardboard License Plates [WATCH]

a motorist was arrested for a fourth offense of Operating While Intoxicated. This wasn't a typical drunk-driving arrest.

Minnesota School Apologizes for Throwing Out Hot Lunches

a video, that was shared on social media, showed almost 40 students had their hot lunches dumped in front of them and offered a cold meal instead.

What is the Best Topping for Chili?

We didn't realize that we would get so many answers, and some answers that we would not have thought of. Chili is one of those dishes, everyone has their preferred way of eating it, and their preferred way of preparing it.

How Much Will That Turkey Dinner Cost You This Year?

But, what if you are responsible for the entire meal? How much are you going to need to shell out in order to feed your friends and family? Well, not as much as you might think