Oskaloosa Community School District Continuous Learning Plan (4-9-20)

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Beginning the week of April 13th, 2020, the Oskaloosa Community School District will be providing Continuous Learning to all students in grades Kindergarten through 12th grade.  The Oskaloosa Continuous Learning Plan (OCLP) follows the guidelines provided by the Iowa Department of Education.  

 

The OCLP allows students to spend time engaging in new learning and participating in learning activities that will be counted as part of the school calendar and will not need to be made up at a later time.  Evidence of learning, engagement, and participation will be expected from students. 

 

Teachers will be providing feedback to students on their work to continue to move their learning forward. In addition to feedback, teachers will be conducting weekly check-ins with students and holding virtual office hours to support you and your students.

Each grade level has different expectations and looks a little different to accommodate the age of the students and their grade in school. Please review the following information relevant to your child(ren)’s grade level.

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OES Parent Letter   

  

OMS Parent Letter

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Grades 9th-11th Parent Letter      

  

Seniors Parent Letter

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We know these are challenging and uncertain times.  Our hope is the increased supports will help to create some consistency and predictability for you and your students. We know this learning structure is not the same as physically being in the school building.

 

Each family’s situation is different during this time, and we want to provide learning that is flexible and meets the needs of your individual family. For additional information read the latest Newsletter from the office of Curriculum and Instruction. If you need help, please reach out to your child’s teacher and/or building principals.  

 

Bridge View Center in Ottumwa to participate in Virtual Easter Egg Hunt (4-9-20)

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The VenuWorks-managed Bridge View Center, along with many other venues, will be part of a virtual egg hunt this weekend, starting today. Participants will have the chance to win 2 tickets to Tonic Sol-Fa on Saturday, September 26, 2020. From the accurately submitted entries, one participant will be chosen as the winner. Submissions are due by 11:59pm on April 12, 2020. The full rules and requirements are listed below:

 

How It Works:

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1. Each venue hid an egg somewhere within their website. Eggs include a word which is part of a sentence jumble. 

2. Participants visit each website, collect hidden eggs, and unjumble the sentence.

3. Submit your entry at www.venuworkspresents.com/virtualegghunt

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Rules:

NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT INCREASE THE CHANCES OF WINNING.

1. Eligibility: This Contest is open only to those who submit an online form on www.venuworkspresents.com and who are 18 years of age or older on the date of entry. Employees of VenuWorks, its affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising and promotion agencies, and suppliers, (collectively the “Employees”), and immediate family members and/or those living in the same household of Employees
are not eligible to participate in the Contest. The Contest is subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Void where prohibited.

2. Agreement to Rules: By participating, the Contestant (“You”) agree to be fully unconditionally bound by these Rules, and You represent and warrant that You meet the eligibility requirements. In addition, you agree to accept the decisions of VenuWorks as final and binding as it relates to the content of this Contest.
3. Contest Period: Entries will be accepted online starting on Thursday, April 9th and ending Sunday, April 12th at 11:59 pm (CST).

 

4. How to Enter: The Contest must be entered by submitting an entry using the online form provided at www.venuworkspresents.com/virtualegghunt. The entry must fulfill all Contest requirements, as specified, to be eligible to win a prize. Entries that are incomplete or do not adhere to the rules or specifications may be disqualified at the sole discretion of VenuWorks. You must provide the information requested in the form. You may enter only once. You may not enter more times than indicated by using multiple email addresses, identities, or devices in an attempt to circumvent the rules. If You use fraudulent methods or otherwise attempt to circumvent the rules, your submission may be removed from eligibility at the sole discretion of VenuWorks.

5. Prizes: The Winner(s) of the Contest (the “Winner”) will receive a prize from local venue listed on your submission. One winner will be drawn per market from the correct submissions. The specifics of the prize shall be solely determined by VenuWorks. No cash or other prize substitution shall be permitted. The prize is nontransferable. Any and all prize-related expenses, including without limitation any and all federal, state, and/or local taxes, shall be the sole responsibility of Winner. No substitution of prize or transfer/assignment of prize to others or request for the cash equivalent by Winner is permitted. Acceptance of prize constitutes
permission for VenuWorks to use Winner’s name, likeness, and entry for purposes of advertising and trade without further compensation, unless prohibited by law.

6. Odds: The odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received.

7. Winner Selection and Notification: Winner will be selected by a random drawing under the supervision of VenuWorks. Winner will be notified by email on Monday, April 13th. VenuWorks shall have no liability for Winner’s failure to receive notices due to spam, junk e-mail or other security settings or for Winner’s provision of incorrect or otherwise non-functioning contact information. If Winner cannot be contacted, is ineligible, fails to claim the prize within 1 day from the time award notification was sent, the prize may be forfeited and an alternate Winner selected. Receipt by Winner of the prize offered in this Contest is conditioned upon compliance with any and all federal, state, and local laws and regulations. ANY  VIOLATION OF THESE OFFICIAL RULES BY WINNER (AT VENUWORKS’S SOLE DISCRETION) WILL RESULT IN WINNER’S DISQUALIFICATION AS WINNER OF THE CAMPAIGN, AND ALL PRIVILEGES AS WINNER WILL BE IMMEDIATELY TERMINATED.

8. Rights Granted by You: By entering this content, you understand and agree that VenuWorks, anyone acting on behalf of VenuWorks, shall have the right, where permitted by law, to print, publish, broadcast, distribute, and use in any media now known or hereafter developed, in perpetuity and throughout the World, without limitation, your entry, name, portrait, picture, voice, likeness, image, statements about the Contest, and biographical information for news, publicity, information, trade, advertising, public relations, and promotional purposes, without any further compensation, notice, review, or consent.

9. Limitation of Liability: By entering, You agree to release and hold harmless VenuWorks and its subsidiaries, affiliates, advertising and promotion agencies, partners, representatives, agents, successors, assigns, employees, officers, and directors from any liability, illness, injury, death, loss, litigation, claim, or damage that may occur, directly or indirectly, whether caused by negligence or not, from: (i) such entrant’s participation in the Contest and/or his/her acceptance, possession, use, or misuse of any prize or any portion
thereof; (ii) technical failures of any kind, including but not limited to the malfunction of any computer, cable, network, hardware, or software, or other mechanical equipment; (iii) the unavailability or inaccessibility of any transmissions, telephone, or Internet service; (iv) unauthorized human intervention in any part of the entry process or the Promotion; (v) electronic or human error in the administration of the Promotion or the processing of entries.

10. The Contest hosted by VenuWorks is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook.

 

Iowa Economic Development Authority Announces 500 Small Businesses to Benefit from First Round of Iowa Small Business Relief Grants (4-9-20)

 

Des Moines – The Iowa Economic Development Authority recently announced that 500 small businesses have been awarded a total of more than $10 million in grants through the Iowa Small Business Relief Grant program. The program has a total of $24 million available to allocate, the additional grant recipients to be notified through additional rounds this week.

 

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“The grant awards announced this week will provide critical short-term assistance to support Iowa small businesses in maintaining or reopening business operations impacted by the public health emergency,” said Iowa Economic Development Authority Director Debi Durham.

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Nearly 14,000 businesses applied through the program requesting a total of more than $148 million in eligible assistance.

 

Due to the high demand, the funding capacity of the program has been expanded to a current total of $24 million, provided through the state Economic Emergency Fund and the Iowa Economic Development Authority. The application period is closed and any additional awards will be made from the current pool of applicants.

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The assistance provided through the Iowa Small Business Relief program is intended to provide businesses with immediate, short-term cash flow assistance for the next 30 days. Businesses with 2-25 employees who had been economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic were eligible to apply.  

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The grants awarded through the program range from $5,000-$25,000. Applications were triaged for eligibility and the businesses identifying the greatest revenue disruption were awarded in the first round of funding. 

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The Iowa Department of Revenue continues to take applications for sales and withholding tax deferral as part of the Iowa Small Business Relief Program. The relief is available to employers and businesses of all sizes that have been impacted by COVID-19. The application period for tax deferral will remain open through April 30.

 

Governor Reynolds talked about this announcement at her press conference yesterday. View that here. More information about the grant awards and tax deferral is available at iowabusinessrecovery.com.

 

Ottumwa Recycling Drop-Off (4-9-20)

 

Due to the continuing precautions with the COVID-19 outbreak, the Ottumwa Recycling office will be closed to the public until further notice but the gates will continue to stay open for drop-off collection Monday through Friday. On Saturdays only the Recycling Center will be closed to the public.

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During this time the Ottumwa Recycling Center will also be accepting appliance and electronic drop-offs at no charge until April 30th. Any questions, you may contact the Recycling Center at 641-683-0684.

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Iowa Utilities Board oversees programs offering financial and communications assistance to Iowans (4-7-20)

 

Access to emergency services and local community resources is vital to all Iowans. The Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) supports efforts to help consumers stay connected during the COVID-19 outbreak and throughout the year by accessing communications programs available to income-eligible residents or those with hearing or speech issues that make communicating via telephone difficult.

 

 

Basic telephone service, broadband internet access service, or bundled services are available to qualified low-income Iowans through the Lifeline program. Lifeline participation enables Iowans to stay connected to jobs, family, community resources, and government and emergency services. The program provides applicants limited monthly financial assistance to help defray costs.

 

 

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary changes have been made to the Lifeline program by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). For current program participants already receiving assistance, recertification is on hold for anniversary dates between April 14 and August 14, 2020, and all new reverification activity is on hold through May 18, 2020.

 

Learn more about the Lifeline program at usac.org/lifeline and get information and updates on FCC changes at fcc.gov/keep-americans-connected.

 

Telephone programs aid Iowans with hearing, speech difficulties

The IUB, by authority of the Legislature, oversees programs that provide telephone accessibility for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or have difficulty speaking. Relay Iowa is a program that assists these individuals and is available at no cost, 24 hours a day, with services including captioning that can be read while listening to a call, speech-to-speech services, and relay services for Spanish-speaking users. Visit Relay Iowa’s website, hamiltonrelay.com/Iowa for information on how to use Relay Iowa.

 

The Iowa Equipment Distribution Program, called Telecommunications Access Iowa (TAI), helps pay for specialized telephone equipment for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing or have speech difficulties. Qualified individuals can receive a voucher for approximately 95 percent of the average cost of specialized telephone equipment such as amplified phones, captioned telephones, cell phone amplifiers, and iPads. Visit TAI’s website, teleiowa.com, for information on how to apply for an Equipment Distribution Program voucher. 

 

The goal of the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP) is to ensure that every person with combined hearing and vision loss has access to telecommunication tools and the training necessary to use them. The program provides outreach, assessments, telecommunications technology and training free of charge to those who meet federal eligibility guidelines. The administrator of Iowa’s NDBEDP is the Helen Keller National Center, Great Plains Regional Office, in Kansas. Visit iCanConnect.org for more information and eligibility requirements.

 

Information on all these programs also can be found on the IUB website, iub.iowa.gov, under the Consumers tab.

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Masks Required for Ottumwa Paratransit Riders (4-6-20)

 

April 6, 2020 - Ottumwa, Iowa – Effective immediately, any person requesting Paratransit service from our Ottumwa Transit will be required to wear a face mask, or something to cover their nose and mouth when riding in the vehicle. This is being done to protect the drivers from any infection due to the close sitting quarters in the vehicles. This is not a requirement for those riding the regular transit buses. Any questions you may contact the Ottumwa Transit office at 641-683-0695.

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Ottumwa Campground to Close (4-6-20)

 

Effective today, April 6, 2020, the Ottumwa Park Campground will be closing to the public. This decision follows Governor Reynolds order closing all public and State parks and campgrounds until further notice to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. In addition to the campground, all of the park’s playgrounds and Skate Park will be closed. The City wants to remind people to follow the Governor’s guidelines when it comes to social distancing and mass gatherings. The City will provide updates as they become available.

 

Governor Reynolds orders campgrounds, cabins, yurts and playgrounds close temporarily (4-6-20)

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In a proactive effort to prevent further spread of Covid-19, this morning Governor Reynolds signed a proclamation closing all public campgrounds, cabins and yurts temporarily, as well as all outdoor playgrounds through April 30. 

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The proclamation goes into effect at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow. Those with reservations will be contacted directly by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Parks, Forests and Preserves Bureau. 

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State Parks, Forests and Preserves remain open during this time for day use opportunities, but visitors are reminded to strictly abide the social distancing rules and not gather in groups. Remember to stay home if you feel sick, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and bring supplies from home including disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer and other hygiene products. All restroom facilities, including pit latrines and port-a-potties, are closed until April 30 as well. 

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These closures will be reevaluated in the future to determine if an extension is necessary. 

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For more information on State Park closures visit: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures.For more information on what the Iowa DNR is doing to respond to Covid-19 and what is being impacted, visit: https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Covid-19.

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Ottumwa Transit Buses Running Normal Operations (4-6-20)

 

 

Residents are reminded that during these uncertain times, Ottumwa Transit is continuing to run normal operations. Ottumwa Transit is running an essential service to the community and continues to provide rides to people in need. The only change during this time is the route to the Airport is by request only. You may contact the Transit office at 641-683-0695 for a request or notify the Airport route driver. Ottumwa Transit is taking every precaution in keeping all the buses sanitized and safe.

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Second Positive Case of COVID-19 in Wapello County: (4-6-20)

 

On Sunday, April 5, 2020, a second positive case of COVID-19 has been reported to the Wapello County Public Health Department.  The individual, between the ages of 18-41, is receiving appropriate medical care and is being followed by Wapello County Public Health officials.  Please continue to follow social distancing and nonessential travel recommendations.  If you are sick, stay home. Wash your hands frequently.  Cover coughs and sneezes and sanitize surfaces.  If you have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call a healthcare provider before visiting an office.  If your symptoms are severe, call 911.

 

Monroe County Jail Canceling Visitation: (4-6-20)

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The Monroe County Jail will be canceling visitation until May 3, 2020. This takes effect immediately. This is due to the threat of COVID-19. We understand that visitations are not contact visitations but this is in place to limit person-to-person contact with staff. This is for the protection of all inmates and staff. 

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USDA Announces Second Application Window for Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program Funding (4-3-20)

 

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand today announced that USDA is opening a second application window for funding under the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) grant program.

 

“Due to the COVID-19 National Emergency, USDA is providing an additional window for those who cannot complete applications prior to the first application deadline,” Brand said. “This action will provide more time for applicants to complete their funding requests. Access to distance learning and telemedicine makes it easier for thousands of rural residents to take advantage of health care and educational opportunities without having to travel long distances or be among large groups of people.”

 

Electronic applications for window two may be submitted through grants.gov beginning April 14, 2020, and are due no later than July 13, 2020. Paper applications will not be accepted under the second window. Additional information on how to apply will be available on grants.gov on April 14.

 

USDA opened the period for the first application window on February 10. That application deadline is April 10.

 

Applicants eligible for DLT grants include most state and local governmental entities, federally recognized tribes, nonprofits, and for-profit businesses.

 

Rural Development was provided an additional $25 million in the CARES Act for the Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program. USDA will make a separate announcement in coming weeks when these funds are available.

 

USDA Rural Development has taken a number of immediate actions to help rural residents, businesses and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. To learn more about Rural Development’s COVID-19 response, visit www.rd.usda.gov/coronavirus.

 

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

 

If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.

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Oskaloosa Schools to Remain Closed Through April 30: (4-2-20)

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Based on the Governor's recommendation, the Oskaloosa School District will remain closed through April 30th of this year. More information will be released next week regarding continuous learning opportunities/requirements and food service. The Oskaloosa School District thanks you for your continued support during this difficult time.

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Ottumwa / Wapello County Landfill and Recycling to Resume Normal Operations (4-2-20)

 

The Ottumwa/Wapello County Landfill and the Recycling Center will return to normal operations as of today April 2, 2020. Landfill and Recycling Center hours are Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Saturday 7:00 a.m. – Noon. Curbside trash and recycling collections will be done weekly as normal. Curbside yard waste and bulky item pick-up will resume normal pick-up operations. Yard waste collection is on Tuesday in all neighborhoods on Ottumwa's south side; north side neighborhoods are collected on Thursday.  Yard waste must be on the curb by 4 AM on collection day to ensure pick up.  

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If you have any questions, please call the Landfill at 641-683-0644 or the Recycling Center at 641-683-0685.

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Central Cares Fund Set Up to Help Students in Need (4-2-20)

 

Central College has established the Central Cares Fund to help students experiencing extreme hardship during the coronavirus pandemic.

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"As we continue to navigate these unprecedented times, Central recognizes the need to help others," says Sunny Gonzales Eighmy, a 1999 graduate and vice president for advancement at Central. "This includes our students who have been forced to move off campus and learn remotely the remainder of this semester.

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"The burdens of doing so impact each student and family differently," she adds. "Some face larger challenges than others. While the future is uncertain, we know many of our students need more assistance than ever before. Our goal is to alleviate some of the anxiety students may be experiencing and minimize disruptions to their academic experience at Central."

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The Central Cares Fund will be a big part of the college's annual Hoo-Rah Day celebration Tuesday, April 7. The day has always been a day to celebrate Central, share the college's pride with the world and raise funding for student scholarships.

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The fund will help ensure every student succeeds. Contributions to Central Cares will be awarded to students demonstrating need for emergency assistance due to changes in economic or health conditions because of the coronavirus pandemic. Funds are intended to support students and needs that arise. This may include, but is not limited to, assisting with technology and access, unexpected travel, shipping and storage, book and course materials and student accounts.

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For more information on Hoo-Rah Day visit hoorah.central.edu. To donate to the Central Cares Fund, visit ignite.central.edu/centralcares.

Central College of Pella, Iowa, is a private, four-year liberal arts college. Central is known for its academic rigor, leadership and character development, global experiential learning, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and sustainability education, athletics and service. For more information about Central College: www.central.edu.

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Get Popcorn-To-Go at Penn Centre Theatre Friday thru Sunday (4-2-20)

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Penn Centre Theatre is offering curbside large popcorn to go for $6.25  Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 2:30 to 6:30 pm. Call the theatre at 641-673-4333 during these hours to place your order. pay over the phone with credit or debit card and arrange pickup.

When you arrive, your popcorn will be brought to your car.

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U.S. CELLULAR RECOMMENDS WIPING DEVICES FREQUENTLY WITH SOFT, SLIGHTLY DAMP LINT-FREE CLOTH (4-2-20)

 

Recent studies have found that coronaviruses can possibly last on
surfaces, such as metal, glass or plastic, for two hours and up to nine days. Therefore, U.S. Cellular encourages people to take precautionary measures and regularly clean your devices.

U.S. Cellular recommends wiping devices frequently with a soft, slightly damp lint-free cloth. The company also encourages people not to share their phone with other people and keep it out of restrooms.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that people clean all “high touch” surfaces, such as phones and tablets, every day. Apple, Samsung and Google have tips online on how to
properly clean their devices, such as:

 

Using a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes. You may gently wipe the hard, nonporous surfaces, such as the display, keyboard or other exterior surfaces.

Don’t use bleach.

Avoid getting moisture in any opening and don’t submerge your device in any cleaning agents.

 

Ottumwa Transit Airport Route by Request Only (4-2-20)

 

Due to low ridership, effective immediately, Ottumwa Transit will only be traveling to the Airport area (Iowa Workforce, Job Corps, IHCC) by request only. Any questions/concerns, you may contact Ottumwa Transit at 641-683-0695.

 

ABSENTEE VOTING FOR PRIMARY ELECTION JUNE 2, 2020 (4-2-20)

 

Due to the current COVID-19 directives on social distancing, Davis County voters are encouraged to vote by mail for the upcoming June 2, 2020 Primary Election.

 

Absentee ballot request forms are being mailed directly to every active registered voter in Iowa. The forms will be sent in mid-late April and will include prepaid postage for return mailing to the Davis County Auditor’s Office. Absentee ballots will be available to vote by mail on April 23, 2020.

Absentee ballots to be mailed must be requested in writing no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, May 22, 2020. Absentee request forms may also be requested by phone from the Davis County Auditor’s Office (641-664-2101) or on the Auditor’s webpage of the Davis County website at www.daviscountyiowa.org.

Completed forms should be dropped off or mailed to the
Davis County Auditor’s Office, 100 Courthouse Square, Suite 2, Bloomfield, IA  52537.

 

The Davis County Auditor’s Office will pay the postage for all completed ballots returned by mail. Ballots must be postmarked prior to midnight, Monday, June 1 (the day prior to the election), or may be delivered to the Davis County Auditor’s Office before the polls close at 9:00 p.m. on Election Day.

 

Absentee voting in person at the Davis County Auditor’s Office will begin on Monday, May 4, 2020.  Voters may vote early during the regular office hours of 8 am to 4 pm through Monday, June 1, 2020.
Voters will be required to wait outside the Auditor’s Office until the voter in front of them has completed voting.

 

For further information, contact the Davis County Auditor’s Office at 641-664-2101 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

 

Oskaloosa Community Gardens Kick Off is postponed; but garden spaces are still available: (3-31-20)

 

The community garden kick off scheduled for April 2 is postponed as we are prioritizing the health and safety of all. We hope to be able to reschedule. Thank you for your understanding.  But garden spaces are still available.

 

To inquire about available spaces, please contact the coordinators of the community garden sites. They are: Hope Gardens (New Hope)- Blaine Vos 641-676-1601 oskyhope@gmail.com; OCSD Glendale- Ron Van Heuvelen 641-660-4329 rveuvelen@gmail.com;  and William Penn- Marsha Riordan 641-673-1044 riordanm@wmpenn.edu.  All had garden plots available for 2020. 

 

More information regarding horticulture programming can be found at the Mahaska County Extension Office; 212 North I Street; Oskaloosa Phone 641-673-5841; and www.extension.iastate.edu/mahaska/yardgarden.htm.

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COVID-19-Related Investment Schemes Anticipated: (3-30-20)

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Des Moines – The Iowa Insurance Division is alerting investors to be on guard against an anticipated surge of fraudulent investment schemes amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“In these extraordinary times the health and welfare of our people is our first concern, and that includes financial health,” said Iowa Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen. “Scammers will begin perpetrating schemes that require little or no advance planning and minimal sophistication. Most will simply be old scams dressed up in new clothing.   Especially in these times of market and economic challenges, investors must stay calm, keep their eyes on the longer term ‘big picture’ and remain vigilant to protect themselves.”

In particular, the Iowa Insurance Division warned investors to be on the lookout for investments specifically tied to the threat of COVID-19. Bad actors can be expected to develop schemes that falsely purport to raise capital for companies manufacturing surgical masks and gowns, producing ventilators and other medical equipment, distributing small-molecule drugs and other preventative pharmaceuticals, or manufacturing vaccines and miracle cures. The schemes often appear legitimate because they draw upon current news, medical reports and social and political developments.

Scammers also will seek to take advantage of concerns with the volatility in the securities markets to promote “safe” investments with “guaranteed returns” including investments tied to gold, silver and other commodities; oil and gas; and real estate. Investors also can expect to see “get rich quick” schemes that tout quickly earned guaranteed returns that can be used to pay for rent, utilities or other expenses. These schemes also target retirees and senior citizens, falsely claiming they can quickly and safely recoup any losses to their retirement portfolios.

“Investors should stay clear of anything sounding too good to be true, such as guarantees of high returns with no risk,” Ommen said. “Iowans can double-check with our office to make sure the investment and the person offering the investment are properly licensed or registered.”

Iowans can contact the Iowa Insurance Division at iid.iowa.gov or 877-955-1212.  

 

Group of Pella Individuals Offer Grocery Shopping Service for Elderly and Immune-Compromised Residents:  (3-28-20)

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A group of Pella individuals are offering to grocery shop for those in Pella who are quarantined, elderly, or have compromised immune systems.

The shoppers will wear gloves. Your shopping list, money and a note where you prefer to shop can be left on your doorstep or in your mailbox. They will deliver the food to your doorstep as a free public service.

For more info, call Betsy Duffy at 641-660-4041.

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Mahaska County Emergency Management Establishes Mahaska COVID-19 Hotline (3-27-20)

Mahaska County Emergency Management in collaboration with Mahaska Health has established a public help hotline to answer community questions during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Beginning at 10 AM on March 27th, community members can call into the Mahaska County COVID-19 Hotline with general questions about COVID-19. The call center will be staffed by volunteers that can assist callers with a variety of information, dispelling rumors and connections to local resources.

At this time, the call center will be open 8-5 Monday through Friday, but may open to calls on weekends dependent on staffing.

One key intent of the hotline is to relieve high call volumes from law center dispatch, the emergency management office, and the hospital. The hotline will not provide medical advice to callers or replace emergency services. In an emergency, always call 911.

To reach the Mahaska County COVID-19 Hotline, call 641.676.3599 or send an email to info@mahaskaema.com or help@mahaskema.com.

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Reported Case of COVID-19 in Wapello County:   (3-27-20)

 

A local Wapello County business has reported a positive case of COVID-19 to Wapello County officials. The individual, who does not live in Wapello County, is receiving appropriate medical care. The business is proactively working with county leaders, healthcare partners, and county emergency management to ensure the health and safety of Wapello County residents.

 

Please continue to follow social distancing and nonessential recommendations. If you are sick, stay home. Wash your hands frequently. Cover coughs and sneezes and sanitize surfaces. If you have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call a healthcare provider before visiting an office. If you symptoms are sever, call 911.

 

We urge residents to remain calm and assure the public that county leaders will provide more information as it become available.

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From the Mahaska County Auditor’s Office: (3-26-20)

Mahaska County Auditor Susan Brown is encouraging residents to vote in the June 2 primary election by mailed absentee ballot due to concerns with the COVID-19 virus.

Absentee ballots must be requested in writing.  Forms can be accessed on the Mahaska County Elections website www.mahaskaelections.org or written on a standard piece of paper that includes a name, address, mailing address if different than the  home address, party affiliation, a date and signature.

For the primary election, Brown reminds voters that they must choose a political party on the request form in order to receive the correct ballot.
Absentee voters will need to provide a personal identification number on the form.  That number is most likely their Iowa driver’s license number or their Iowa non-operator’s ID number.  If a voter does not have either of those, the voter should have received a Voter Identification Card with a four digit PIN number on it from the Iowa Secretary of State’s office.

Absentee requests can be mailed to Mahaska County Auditor’s Office, 106 S 1st St, Oskaloosa IA  52577.

Absentee requests for the June 2 primary election may be submitted now up through 5 p.m. May 22.   We cannot accept absentee ballot requests for the General Election until July 6, 2020.

Please contact the Mahaska County Auditor’s Office for more information 641-673-7148 or email auditor@mahaskacounty.org.

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Targeted Small Business Sole Operator Fund Has Been Created (3-26-20)

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A fund has been created to support Targeted Small Businesses (TSB) with zero employees that have been economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program offers eligible small businesses grants ranging from $5,000-$10,000 to businesses that are sole proprietors or single-member LLCs that are also TSB certified, or have an application submitted to the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) by April 10, 2020 to become TSB certified.

 

This program will continue to process applications on an ongoing basis until all funds are exhausted. Applications are processed in both order of receipt of application and submission of all required documents and Targeted Small Business certification approval. 

 

Iowa Center for Economic Success will review grant applications for eligibility and determine the grant amount by the level of impact including loss in sales revenue and employees. The Iowa Center for Economic Success will also provide recommendations of award decisions to IEDA. IEDA will verify and/or finalize the applicant’s TSB certification and notify the applicant of the award decision.

 

Documents Required for Upload in the Online Application:

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• 3-month income statement 

• Revenues - March 2019 

• Revenues - March 2020 to date 

• Balance Sheet (as of application date)

• Completed Business W-9 Form  

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Additionally, you will be asked to provide: 

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• Date of business establishment 

• Description of Economic Impact Loss (loss of sales or revenue) 

• Estimated loss of revenues March 15, 2020 - April 15, 2020 

• Description of how funds will be utilized to maintain operations or reopen after the disaster

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To be eligible for a TSB Sole Operator Fund grant, eligible businesses must: 

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• Be experiencing business disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic; and

• Be a Targeted Small Business or have an application in process by April 10, 2020 to become certified as a Targeted Small business in accordance with Chapter 52 of Iowa Code; and

• Be a sole proprietor, single-member LLC with no employees, or a corporation with only one owner and no employees; and

• Verify that Targeted Small Business income is the sole source of income for the business owner

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To be eligible for TSB Certification, businesses must be: 

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• Located in the state of Iowa; and

• Operating for a profit; and

• Make less than $4 million in gross income, computed as an average of the preceding three fiscal years; and

• Majority owned (51% or more), operated and managed by a female, individual with minority status, service disabled veteran or individual with a disability

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The funds may not be used to pay debts incurred prior to March 17, 2020.

 

How to Apply:

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• Read the FAQ document

 

Click here to complete an application

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Mahaska County Reports First Positive for COVID-19 (3-25-20)

 

Testing reported to the Iowa Department of Public Health has indicated one positive case of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in a Mahaska County, Iowa resident. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), the individual was an adult aged 61-80 years who is believed to have contracted the virus via community spread. This case did require hospitalization and is recovering.

 

“While this is Mahaska County’s first case, it may not be the last, and that’s why we encourage all residents to continue to make prevention a priority,” said Mahaska County Public Health Coordinator, Patty Malloy.

 

These actions include:

 

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.

 

• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow/upper arm.

 

• Staying home when ill.

 

Approximately 80% of Iowans infected with COVID-19, will experience only a mild to moderate illness. Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19.

 

Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house. Stay home and isolate from others in the house until:

 

• You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers) AND

 

• other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved) AND

 

• at least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

 

If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in the office or if you can recover at home. There may also be options for you to talk to a medical provider from home using technology.

 

For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the Mahaska Health website at www.mahaskahealth.org, or the IDPH webpage at https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus and follow Mahaska Health and the Iowa Department of Public Health on Facebook.

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Remote notarization now in effect in Iowa after Governor Reynolds issues emergency waiver (3-25-20)

 

DES MOINES – The in-person requirement for notarizing documents is temporarily waived for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency, Governor Reynolds declared earlier this week. The requirements are subject to guidance provided by Iowa Secretary of State of State Paul Pate.

 

A new law allowing remote notarization in Iowa was scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2020. Governor Reynolds declaration accelerates the timeline.

 

“I’ve been a longtime advocate for remote notarization as long as the integrity measures are kept in place,” Secretary Pate said. “During this crisis, waiving the in-person requirement is a necessity. We want to help Iowans conduct important business and other vital transactions while maintaining social distancing. Remote notarization will help commerce continue.”

 

The temporary guidelines that apply during the emergency waiver of the in-person requirement are below:

 

• The new remote notary law is currently scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2020. Notaries are advised that as that date approaches, we will be re-evaluating what the changeover will look like and will issue further guidance at that time. Questions may be emailed to the Secretary of State’s Office at notary@sos.iowa.gov.

 

• Under the emergency declaration, remote notarial acts must conform to all the provisions in Iowa Administrative Code 721-43, Iowa Code chapter 9B, and every provision of Section 6 of Senate File 475.

• Section 6 requires the use a software service designed for the purpose of facilitating remote online notarization, as opposed to services that primarily offer video-conferencing ability. Online notarization services include the necessary identity-proofing, e-signing, and recording/storage capabilities.

• Even though the revised administrative rules are not yet in effect, the ARC 4997C draft is available online and will help notaries ensure they will be in compliance when they do take effect: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/aco/bulletin/03-25-2020.pdf

• Section 6 requires notaries to register with our office before performing any remote notarial acts.  A web application is available to complete and submit on our website at this address: https://sos.iowa.gov/remotenotary

• It is strongly advised that notaries follow the training on how to use the remote online notarization service provided by the service they choose.

• Verification of the customer’s identity is of critical. Notaries are advised to be certain that the video resolution through the service they choose is sufficient to see identity-proofing documents clearly, and that the audio clarity is sufficient to understand everything the customer says.

• Notaries are reminded that they are professionally responsible for properly performing notarizations under the law, even in this emergency context.

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Attorney General Tom Miller warns online marketplaces, other sellers over price gouging (3-25-20) Read the full article HERE.

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Iowa Small Businesses Can Apply for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (3-24-20)

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SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans are working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.
Details on SBA's Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program and information on how to apply for it are included below:

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How to Apply for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan:

In Wapello County, contact Bryan Ziegler, Small Business Development Center Director: bryan.ziegler@indianhills.edu OR 641-683-5127

Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call (800) 877-8339.

For those wishing to make "paper" submissions, completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
 
Application Filing Deadline is December 17, 2020.

Disaster Loan Assistance Available: Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) – Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.
 
Credit Requirements:

• Credit History – Applicants must have a credit history acceptable to SBA.

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• Repayment – Applicants must show the ability to repay the loan.

• Collateral – Collateral is required for all EIDL loans over $25,000. SBA takes real estate as collateral when it is available. SBA will not decline a loan for lack of collateral, but SBA will require the borrower to pledge collateral that is available.
 
For Questions: Applicants can call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call (800) 877-8339.
 

Iowa Small Businesses- Click here to Apply On Line

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First Case of COVID-19 Confirmed in Wapello County (3-23-20)

Wapello County Public Health and Wapello County Emergency Management has learned that a local community member has tested positive for the novel Coronavirus, COVID-19.  The individual is receiving appropriate medical treatment and is isolated at this time.  Wapello County Public Health is working with them.

While this is the first case in Wapello County, it may not be the last. We encourage all residents to continue to make prevention a priority.  These actions include:

⦁    Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.
⦁    Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow/upper arm.
⦁    Staying home when ill.
⦁    Avoid nonessential travel and social distance.

For individuals who have symptoms of illness, particularly with fever and cough or shortness of breath, your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in the office or if you can recover at home. If you think you need healthcare, call first. Approximately 80% of Iowans infected with COVID-19, will experience only a mild to moderate illness. Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19. Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house.  

Iowans should stay at home and isolate themselves from other people and household pets in the home in the following situations.  Isolation should be in place for 14 days after the last exposure, if:

⦁    You have traveled outside of Iowa for business or vacation in the last 14 days.
⦁    You have taken a cruise anywhere in the world in the last 14 days.
⦁    You have traveled internationally to a country with a level 3 travel warning in the last 14 days.
⦁    You live with someone who has symptoms of COVID-19 or has tested positive for COVID-19.

Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house, if:

⦁    You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever - without the use of medicine that reduces fevers) AND

⦁    other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)  AND

⦁    at least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

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We recognize that this is a very uncertain time for everyone. County partners working to continually ensure the health and wellbeing of Wapello County residents. We encourage residents to follow recommendations from Iowa Department of Public Health, Governor Reynolds and local healthcare agencies. Wapello County Emergency Management, Department of Public Health and local healthcare partners will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. 

Iowans with general questions about COVID-19 can visit the IDPH webpage at https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus and follow the department on Facebook at @IowaDepartmentOfPublicHealth and on Twitter at @IAPublicHealth or call 211.  For local information please visit: www.wapelloready.org and follow us on Facebook at Wapello County Public Health and Wapello County Emergency Management.
 

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Know what to and what NOT to flush down your toilet (3-22-20)

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The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is reminding Iowans of the importance of flushing ONLY toilet paper and human waste down toilets to avoid disruption of sewer systems.

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The Department recognizes the temporary shortage of toilet paper products during the Covid-19 outbreak, but warns items such as flushable wipes, disinfecting wipes, surface cleaning wipes, baby wipes, even though advertised as flushable, are not recommended for disposal by flushing down a toilet. Diapers, paper towels, tissues and feminine hygiene products should also not be flushed down toilets.

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Even though these products may not clog your sewer system at your residence, when deposited together, in an entire community, can pose a serious risk of overwhelming a community’s sewer system. If a sewer system is clogged, it can lead to backups of sewage into residences and overflows into the environment. Additionally, it can cause pump failures and lead to several hours of repairs and expenses to city wastewater systems.

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Residents are encouraged to dispose of the items in bags and dispose in the trash.

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Public drinking water safe to drink (3-22-20)

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The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is providing this important information about COVID-19 as it relates to public drinking water to provide clarity to the public. The COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking water supplies. Based on current evidence, the risk to water supplies is very low. Disinfection methods used in drinking water treatment plants are effective for inactivation of coronaviruses and all other viruses. Iowans can continue to use and drink water from their tap as usual.  The Iowa DNR recommends obtaining your potable water from your tap as much as possible to conserve bottled water for emergency situations if needed.  

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Stay up to date on the latest news regarding coronavirus with the World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH).

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State Public Health Emergency Declaration Provides Temporary Extension of Weapon Permits (3-22-20)

 

https://dps.iowa.gov/state-public-health-emergency-declaration-provides-temporary-extension-weapon-permits

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The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the largest law enforcement agency in the state.  It includes six divisions and several bureaus, all working together with local, state and federal government agencies and the private sector, to keep Iowa a safe place by following our core values: leadership, integrity, professionalism, courtesy, service and protection.

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Divisions within the Iowa DPS: Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Fire Marshal Division, Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center, and Administrative Services Division. The Department of Public Safety is led by the Commissioner, appointed by the Governor.

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From the Office of Iowa Senator Joni Ernst (3-22-20)

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Dear Friend—

I know these are trying times, and my heart goes out to all Iowans who may be struggling. I encourage everyone to look out for one another. Iowans are resilient, and we are going to get through this together. 

Please continue to visit my website for information on COVID-19, and if you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. 

 

Coronavirus Rumor Control (3-22-20)

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FEMA has announced a new website to help the public distinguish between rumors and facts regarding the response to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Rumors can easily circulate within communities during a crisis, stay informed with our updated myth vs. facts related to the federal (COVID-19) response.

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Visit the website HERE.

 

For more information on the coronavirus, visit coronavirus.gov. You can also visit our coronavirus (COVID-19) response page for more updates on the federal response.

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Grocers Assure Communities ‘There Is Enough Food’ During the COVID-
19 Pandemic  (3-22-20)
 
URBANDALE, IOWA—As Iowa responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, the state’s grocery industry is adapting to unprecedented consumer demand.
COVID-19 has caused a surge in demand for a number of grocery items, leaving some grocery store shelves temporarily empty. In response, the grocery industry is working hard to meet the needs of consumers, with many stores restocking items multiple times each day and changing store hours to accommodate extra sanitation and stocking efforts.

“The demand for certain products has made it challenging to distribute goods fast enough to restock shelves with those items as quickly as consumers are purchasing them,” says Iowa Grocery Industry Association President Michelle Hurd. “But the important thing to know is that there is enough food and most items will be back in stock within a day or two.
“We are asking people to please remain calm and buy only what you need for the week. This will allow us to get products back on store shelves and for everyone to get what they need.” 

Hurd explains that the food industry has been working with government at the federal, state and local levels to ensure uninterrupted service to consumers. As a result, grocery stores and food manufacturer employees have been identified as essential emergency workers.

 

Hurd says that shortened store hours are NOT due to any shortages. Adjusted hours allow store employees the time they need to clean and sanitize, and keep shelves stocked to meet the needs of all Iowans.

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According to Hurd, stores are following federal, state and local guidelines as well as CDC guidelines when it comes to protecting customers and employees. That includes preventing sick employees from coming to work and asking sick customers not to come into stores.

Hurd emphasizes, “The supply chain is strong and shelves are being refilled daily. Please remain calm and do not over buy so everyone can get the items they need. “As the leading resource for the food industry in our state, the Iowa Grocery Industry Association is proud to represent an industry that is providing essential support during this time of need. We share the hope that the impact of this disease will be minimized and our thoughts are with those who have been affected by it.”

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Masons of Mahaska County extend their hand to help

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Novel Coronavirus, or COVID-19, has disrupted the lives of many, and the Masons of Mahaska County with Mahaska Lodge 644 is extending a hand to help those that are most vulnerable to the disease.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults 65 and up, pregnant women, people with HIV, asthma, heart disease, diabetes or lung disease are all most susceptible to the illness. If you fall into the category of any of these conditions, or you’re self-quarantining for personal reasons, Mahaska Lodge 644 wants to help you.

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Mahaska Lodge 644 Master (President) Shawn Garrison said the fraternity is filled with young, healthy men that are ready and willing to assist with running general errands, like picking up groceries or prescriptions. Garrison said anyone that needs assistance can contact him directly at 641-660-1329 to schedule an appointment.

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“If there are people that are quarantined, or elderly, that just does not feel comfortable getting out, we have enough younger brothers who aren’t as high risk that would be more than welcome to go pick groceries or prescriptions,” he said.

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The Masons of Mahaska Lodge 644 are Freemasons under the Grand Lodge of Iowa. Masonry is a charitable, community service-based organization dedicated to truth, relief and brotherly love. The call to help that they are extending to the community now backs up two out of three of those factors, relief and brotherly love.

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In late February of this year, Mahaska Lodge 644 was recognized alongside Campbell’s Drivers Education for donating funds to have a retractable American Flag installed in the gymnasium at Oskaloosa Middle School last year. The idea to donate came from Owner of Campbell’s Driver Education Rob Campbell, who is also a Freemason. Campbell said he chose to donate to the cause because he wanted to give the students at OMS something to be proud of, something that was unique to them.

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“I mainly [chose] to donate to set our school off from something that everybody else had,” he said. “I wanted the kids to come to the school see them lower that flag and go, ‘oh wow.’ You know that wow factor was kind of neat and it says, kind of, a special thing to me. The Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem played to the flag is really kind of neat.”

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Garrison said the organization hopes that when residents in the community see kind acts of service like these they are reminded that of the history that the organization has in the community, a principal foundation that they hope to return to.

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“The Masons have been in Oskaloosa since the late 1860s,” Garrison said. “They were for the longest time a benevolence for the community and we hope to return to being a benevolence for the community.”

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FROM THE STATE OF IOWA DEPT OF PUBLIC HEALTH: (3-19-20)

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The Iowa Department of Health WIC office has received numerous calls regarding a FALSE Facebook post that states the government will be sending “disaster cards” because of expiring WIC benefits and/or that WIC offices are closed. These are both false. WIC benefits will not run out at the end of the month. WIC is OPEN and is providing services to existing and new families remotely. If you have questions, call 515-281-6650 or 1-800-532-1579.

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Financial assistance for customers impacted by COVID-19: (3-19-20)

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MidWestOne Bank today announced programs to aid clients affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

“We recognize the immediate pain and anxiety our customers are experiencing. We are immediately implementing a number of programs designed to help those in need,” said President and CEO Charlie Funk.

 

MidWestOne is committed to implementing programs that assist our customers, employees, and communities. We are here to help. Taking care of our customers…

 

Through April 30 MidWestOne will offer the following assistance to our retail and business customers:

 

• Work with each customer to help with their unique situation

• One withdrawal from a certificate of deposit up to $20,000 and no early withdrawal penalty

• Consumer hardship assistance loans ranging between $1,000 to $5,000 at low rates*

• 30-day payment extensions on most retail loans and lines of credit

• Consumer home equity lines of credit at low introductory rates*

• Consumer credit cards with limited time benefits*

• 90-day deferred principal payments for qualified business customers with identified need

• Other business loan accommodations such as increasing borrowing capacity where warranted Taking care of our communities…

 

MidWestOne is committed to supporting our communities. We are actively asking everyone to shop locally starting with our employees. We support our restaurant and bar businesses by ordering take out and using local businesses’ phone and mail order and online capabilities.

 

Visit https://www.midwestone.bank/news/covid19 for more information.

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