Monday, June 1 - 4:27 p.m. - SHS Commencement Plan 2020
1) SCSD will abide by CDC guidelines, including urging vulnerable Iowans with pre-existing medical conditions &
those over age 65, to remain at home.
2) This plan was reviewed by the Clay County COVID Taskforce on 5/20/20 and by Public Health on 6/1/20.
Plan A: All Srs & 4 Family/Guests in Dale Norton FB Stadium
When
● SCSD will choose the date based on the weather forecast, and notify families on June 10.
● If Friday, June 12th, the ceremony will begin at 7 pm.
● If Saturday, June 13, or Sunday, June 14, at 2:30.
Family/Guests
● Each family will be allowed up to 4 people besides the graduate. It 2 Primary Guardians are listed, two
tickets would be provided to each guardian for a total of 4 tickets.
● An RSVP is required including names of those who will receive the tickets. RSVP through this link by
June 1. Paper tickets, printed with the name of each guest, will be mailed to the Primary Guardian(s) and
must be presented at Commencement. Tickets are not transferable.
Gates Open
● 60 minutes before the start time of the ceremony.
○ If Friday night, gates open at 6:00.
○ If Saturday or Sunday, gates open at 1:30 pm.
● 3 gates for entrance
○ North Ticket Entrance
○ South Ticket Entrance
○ Southeast Gate (ambulance parking at FB games); parking available at baseball & softball complex
Seating
● Families will bring lawn chairs & blankets for seating on the football field, following appropriate social
distancing guidelines.
● Seniors sit in the stadium bleachers, beginning on the south half.
“ Rehearsal”
● Using Google Meet, Mrs. Wiemers will conduct a virtual rehearsal with students.
○ Attend one rehearsal: Wed, 6/10 @ noon OR Wed, 6/10 @ 7 pm
○ Log on Google Meet (meet.google.com) and use the password “hsadmin”
○ Parents welcome!
Dress Code
● Seniors: Graduation Cap, Gown, Tassel, Honors Cords, and NHS Stoles; dress up as much as you can!
○ No flipflops - Too noisy.
○ Girls, be cautious about heel height as you have stadium stairs to navigate.
○ Decorate your cap! Offensive decor will not be allowed; Mrs. Wiemers will have a plain hat for you.
○ Borrowed items, including NHS stoles, will be returned at the end of the ceremony.
● Family Members & Guests: Dress comfortably
After the ceremony
● All seniors and guests should depart from the SHS campus immediately. Thank you
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3:00 p.m. Thursday, May 28 - All positive cases have recovered at this time
County officials have confirmed that all 13 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, including those confirmed this week, in Clay County are considered recovered at this time.
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2:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 27 - Clay County positive cases reach 13 total
Three newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 have brought Clay County's total to 13, with 10 having recovered at this time. According to the IDPH, 351 individuals in Clay County have been tested for the coronavirus as of Wednesday.
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12:15 p.m. Tuesday, May 26 - Gov. Reynolds signs new proclamation continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration
DES MOINES - Today, Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency until June 25, 2020.
As previously announced, the proclamation permits bars, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and social and fraternal clubs may reopen on May 28 with the same public health measures as restaurants in place.
The proclamation also permits the reopening on June 1 of additional establishments, including outdoor performance venues, casinos, bowling alleys, amusement parks, skating rinks, skate parks, outdoor playgrounds.
The proclamation again permits social, community, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings and events of more than 10 people if public health measures are implemented, including limiting attendance to 50% of the venue capacity and maintaining six feet of distance between those attending. This also allows practices, games, and competitions for youth and adult baseball, softball, and individual sports such as running, biking, swimming, tennis, and golf to resume with appropriate public health measures in place.
And the proclamation extends regulatory relief to those affected by this public health emergency until June 25.
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3 p.m. Wednesday, May 20 - Positive cases of COVID-19 remain at nine after erroneous positive
Although state data was updated today showing an increase in positive cases of COVID-19 in Clay County by one, Clay County Public Health Coordinator Colette Rossiter said today's reported additional confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Clay County is incorrect.
"There have been recent cases assigned to Clay County that were incorrect," Rossiter said. "This happened last Friday and has happened again today. So the actual number of cases for Clay County is nine, and all have recovered."
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11:48 p.m. Wednesday, May 20 - Mayor, public health experts recommend precautions
With less than a dozen confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Clay County and with more services reopening for business in the region, it may be an easy assumption that the risk of COVID-19 has lessened. Yet, local public health officials and community leaders encourage people to remain vigilant in practicing safety precautions to mitigate the risk of becoming ill.
“As a state and as a community, restrictions are easing. And, while it’s exciting to be able to return to our local businesses and support them, we also know that the COVID-19 virus remains a risk and wish to encourage citizens to continue to practice safety measures,” commented Spencer Mayor Kevin Robinson.
Colette Rossiter, Clay County Public Health manager, said that since a vaccine to prevent COVID-19 does not yet exist, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid exposure.
“Infection disease experts continue to learn more about this novel virus and have already learned that in addition to being spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets, the virus can live on surfaces for a time period,” Rossiter said. “Also, a person may not have symptoms, yet can be a carrier and sharer of the virus, so it’s beneficial when everyone practices safety measures, including thorough hand washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based sanitizer, wearing a mask, and, when possible, maintaining a distance of six feet from others.”
If someone does become ill, it’s important to first call your healthcare provider who can assess your health status. For those who are able to remain in their home while recovery, please follow these steps recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention:
· Stay home in isolation. Do not leave except to seek medical care.
· As much as possible, stay in a specific room of your home and away from other people and pets in your home. If possible, use a separate bathroom. If you need to be around others in your home, wear a cloth face covering to protect them.
· Monitor your symptoms. If you have difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical care. If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, a representative of public health will routinely contact you.
· Continue to cover your coughs and sneezes; wash your hands frequently; do not share personal household items (dishes, drinking glasses, towels, etc.) with others; and clean high-touch surfaces daily.
When your fever is gone and your symptoms have improved, public health officials will use CDC guidelines to determine when you can end home isolation.
“We’ve been fortunate that to date our county has not been hit hard by COVID-19, yet, we’ve all seen the number of cases grow in our region. To help keep our local infection numbers low, we’re asking everyone to be mindful of how we can protect one another’s health and continue to keep our infection numbers low,” Robinson said. “Shop our local stores and enjoy food and beverages from our local establishments, but please do your part to help keep our community healthy.”
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12 p.m. Tuesday, May 19 - Arts on Grand's Backyard Bach and Blues postponed to Aug. 29
In a Facebook post, Arts on Grand announced its annual Backyard Bach and Blues event would be pushed back to Aug. 29. Additionally, the upcoming AOG exhibit "Termespheres" by Dick Termes has been postponed until 2021.
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6:00 a.m. Saturday, May 16 - All known positive cases of COVID-19 recovered
Clay County Emergency Manager Eric Tigges shared through his office's Facebook page that after investigation regarding a 10th positive case of COVID-19 in Clay County, all nine positive cases in the county were considered recovered as of Saturday.
"Yesterday, we were notified of the 10th case of COVID19 in Clay County," the Clay County Emergency Management post stated. "Upon further investigation by Clay County Public Health, it was determined that this person no longer lives in Clay County. We are officially at nine confirmed cases, all of which have recovered."
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4:00 p.m. Thursday, May 14 - New case of COVID-19 confirmed in Clay County
According to an update from Clay County Public Health Coordinator Colette Rossiter, a new positive case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Clay County this afternoon, bringing the total of positive cases confirmed in Clay County to the double digits, at 10.
Rossiter also said that all nine previous confirmed cases in the county have recovered.
Per the state coronavirus dashboard, 228 in Clay County have been tested for COVID-19 as of Wednesday's end.
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2:26 p.m. Thursday, May 14 - Coronavirus Food Assistance Program Toolkit for Stakeholders
USDA is preparing to open the application period for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, particularly the payments to agricultural producers to help offset direct losses as well as additional adjustment and marketing costs. CFAP will use funding and authorities provided in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, and other USDA existing authorities. In total, this program will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to producers to help offset impacts from the pandemic. We need your help. In advance of opening the application period, we want to share information with producers on how they will apply, what type of information is needed, and what the process will look like. This toolkit includes: • Key messages • Newsletter article • Infographic • Social media posts • Social media story posts If you have questions, you can reach us at fpac.bc.press@usda.gov.
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1:39 p.m. Wednesday, May 13 - Test Iowa site coming to Storm Lake Saturday
Information from BV County Emergency Management
As many of you have probably heard, we will have a Test Iowa site in Storm Lake. The site will open on Saturday. Anyone who is concerned that they may have the virus or have been exposed to the virus can go to www.testiowa.com and take the survey. If they should be tested, the site will give them a QR code to show at the Test Iowa site to get tested. The State lab is caught up on testing so results are coming back fairly quick. Please share this info widely as this is open to anyone in Iowa. We have many people coming into BV Co to work from all over. This is our chance to find those asymptomatic spreaders of the virus and get them to isolate to prevent further spread of the virus. They can test 320 people/day, The site is managed by the National Guard and will be set up at the Storm Lake High School. Also, there are no questions or concerns about citizenship, immigration, etc.
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1:36 p.m. Wednesday, May 13 - Governor loosens more lockdowns
Today, Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency. The proclamation permits salons, barbershops, and massage and tattoo establishments to reopen throughout Iowa in a limited fashion with appropriate public health measures in place. It also permits restaurants (but not bars), fitness centers, libraries, and race tracks to reopen in the 22 counties where they have remained closed. These changes are effective at 5:00 a.m. on Friday, May 15.
The proclamation continues the other ongoing closures and public health measures, including the prohibition on social, community, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings and events of more than 10 people, until 11:59 p.m. on May 27, 2020.
It also strongly encourages all vulnerable Iowans, including those with preexisting medical conditions and those older than 65, in all counties of the state to continue to limit their activities outside of their home, including their visits to businesses and other establishments and their participation in gatherings of any size and any purpose.
Clay County Covid-19 numbers remain steady at 9, with 13 tests done in the county on Tuesday. Eight of the nine cases have recovered.
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11:58 a.m. Friday, May 8 - Spencer Hospital resumes limited elective surgeries
Spencer Hospital Surgery Center will resume same day surgical procedures on a limited basis Monday, May 11.
“The hospital and its medical staff have developed a plan which takes measured steps to reopen elective procedures,” explained hospital president Bill Bumgarner. “We’re anxious to meet the health needs of our patients, yet with a first priority to focus on patient and healthcare provider safety during the COVID-19 public health emergency.”
Safety protocols will include, but are not limited to, the following:
· All patients considered for elective surgery will be carefully prescreened. In addition to a traditional physical and health history assessment, each patient will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms.
· Upon entering Spencer Hospital or any of the clinics for a scheduled procedure, patients will be asked to wear cloth masks and will be screened again for COVID-19 symptoms.
· All care team members will wear surgical masks and protective eye wear or face shields, as well as other necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed when caring for a patient.
· Current temporary visitor restrictions remain in place. For surgery procedures, one parent or guardian may accompany a patient under the age of 18. Patients 18 and older will be asked to have someone transport them to the hospital and be prepared to transport the patient home afterwards, yet not accompany them into the facility. All surgical patients are encouraged to have a contact person whom the care team can keep informed regarding the patient’s procedure and contact when the patient is ready to be released and transported home.
In addition to the patient safety measures, Spencer Hospital remains prepared to cease elective procedures if a surge of COVID-19 cases develops in the area, supply chain limitations impact critical supply inventory or hospital employees must be reassigned to higher priority care assignments.
“The Spencer medical community looks forward to increase service access in a responsible way,” Bumgarner said. “Since the outset of the pandemic, the hospital has continued to provide essential healthcare services. As some elective procedures are resumed, an emphasis will continue to keep precautions in place to protect patients. This includes continuing to limit the number of people who enter our healthcare facilities and using additional protective measures as recommended by disease control experts.”
He added: “Until an effective vaccine is developed, the community can support all healthcare workers by being mindful of social distancing and other preventative measures. By joining to together to limit the spread of the coronavirus, Spencer Hospital will be able to most effectively ensure optimal care to patients who may require care due to the virus."
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10:55 a.m. Friday, May 8 - One more positive COVID-19 case in Clay County
Clay County COVID-19 total rises by one
Clay County had one more patient test positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, May 7, bringing the county total to 9. A total of 184 persons have been tested for COVID-19 in Clay County. Statewide, another 403 positive tests were returned on Thursday, with 13 deaths attributed to COVID - 19, bringing the death toll in the state to 243.
Statewide, there have been a total of 11,457 cases of COVID-19, with 70,261 tests done.
In the area, Dickinson County sits at 6 positive cases, while Buena Vista County has 32, an increase of 14 on Thursday when 34 tests were completed in the county.
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3:30 p.m. Thursday, May 7 - FSA offering farm ownership, operating loans to farmers during COVID-19 crisis
DES MOINES — The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency reminds producers that FSA offers farm ownership and farm operating loans to agricultural producers who may not find success obtaining loans from their traditional financial institutions because of COVID-19. Farmers who cannot obtain commercial credit from a bank can apply for FSA direct or guaranteed loans. USDA offers a variety of loans to meet different production needs. Direct loans are made to applicants by FSA. Guaranteed loans are made by lending institutions who arrange for FSA to guarantee the loan. FSA can guarantee up to 95 percent of the loss of principal and interest on a loan. The FSA guarantee allows lenders to make agricultural credit available to producers who do not meet the lender’s normal underwriting criteria. The direct and guaranteed loan program offers two types of loans: farm ownership loans and farm operating loans. Repayment terms for direct operating loans are scheduled from one to seven years. Financing for direct farm ownership loans cannot exceed 40 years. Interest rates for direct loans are set periodically according to the government’s cost of borrowing. Guaranteed loan terms and interest rates are set by the lender. For more information on FSA’s farm loan programs, please contact your local FSA office or visit farmers.gov.
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11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 6 - Positive cases in the state rise by 293
DES MOINES - Today, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of 293 additional positive cases for a total of 10,404 positive cases. There have been an additional 2,309 negative tests for a total of 52,767 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs.
According to IDPH, an additional 12 deaths were also reported, 414 are currently hospitalized, and 3,803 Iowans have recovered. At this time, 1 in 50 Iowans have already been tested.
According to IDPH the additional 12 deaths were reported in the following counties:
- Black Hawk County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Clayton County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Jasper County, 2 elderly adults (81+)
- Linn County, 1 older adult (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Marshall County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Muscatine County, 1 older adult (61-80 years),
- Polk County, 3 elderly adults (81+)
- Woodbury County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
The state of Iowa has released an updated dashboard on coronavirus.iowa.gov that will be updated daily to include comprehensive tracking of COVID-19 in Iowa. The new dashboard includes cases, deaths, and tests conducted in each county. The state is now providing demographic information that was not previously provided as well as Iowa’s epidemiological curve.
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1:08 p.m. Tuesday, May 5 - State announces highest daily death toll from COVID-19
The Iowa Department of Public Health as announced another 408 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state. In addition, the highest daily death toll was announced, with 19 deaths across the state, with six in Linn County. In Clay County, a total of seven cases of COVID-19 have been reported, with three of those cases having recovered.
In Clay County, a total of 160 people have been tested for COVID-19, while statewide the number stands at 60,569. The state has 10,511 cases of COVID-19, with 3,572 having recovered.
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8:35 a.m. Tuesday, May 5 - Transfer Station reopens, Spencer Library to offer curbside pickup
The Spencer Transfer Station will reopen today for service with no cash payments and social distancing remaining in practice. Also beginning today, the Spencer Library will begin offering curbside pickup. To reserve library materials for pickup, call 580-7290.
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8:40 p.m. Monday, May 4 - 7th Clay County COVID-19 case confirmed
Clay County Public Health Cordinator Colette Rossiter reported that as of Monday afternoon, the county has reached seven laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases. Of which, three people have recovered. The four most recently diagnosed cases are recovering at home in isolation.
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8:36 p.m. Monday, May 4- SHS commencement date set
Tradition is important at Spencer Community Schools. For the Class of 2020, the Covid-19 virus has interrupted the usual manner of celebration of graduates enjoyed by our community. Nonetheless, school staff have devised creative and innovative ways to provide attention and recognition of these students and their four years at SHS in order to honor the tradition of a grand send-off
Spencer Community Schools is happy to announce a plan for a live commencement for Spencer High School seniors at Dale Norton Football Field on the weekend of June 12th. The tentative plan includes commencement beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday night, June 12th, with consideration for Saturday, June 13th at 2 p.m. or Sunday, June 14th at 2 p.m. School officials will choose the day with the best weather forecast, and inform students and families on June 10. Students will sit in the bleachers and family members, up to 4 family members per student, will sit in the grass of the football field on lawn chairs and blankets brought from home.
Seniors will wear their caps with tassel, gown and any honor medals or cords. As names are read students will come across the front walkway of the bleachers, stop in the center section for a photo and to pick up their diploma and turn their own tassel.
The SHS Virtual Commencement set for Sunday, May 17 at 2:30, will continue as planned in order to provide students and families with a celebration of graduation that corresponds with the seniors’ last day of classes and optional school work, which is May 15.
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12:17 p.m. Monday, May 4 - Clay County positive cases rise to six, 534 new positive COVID-19 cases and four additional deaths confirmed in Iowa
DES MOINES - Today, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of 534 additional positive cases for a total of 9,703 positive cases. There have been an additional 3,441 negative tests for a total of 47,458 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs. 85 percent of new positive cases today are in the 22 counties where restrictions remain in place.
According to IDPH, an additional 4 deaths were also reported, 389 are currently hospitalized, and 3,486 Iowans have recovered. At this time, 1 in 55 Iowans have already been tested.
According to IDPH the additional 4 deaths were reported in the following counties:
- Appanoose County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Jasper County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Poweshiek County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Wapello County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
The state of Iowa has released an updated dashboard on coronavirus.iowa.gov that will be updated daily to include comprehensive tracking of COVID-19 in Iowa. The new dashboard includes cases, deaths, and tests conducted in each county. The state is now providing demographic information that was not previously provided as well as Iowa’s epidemiological curve.
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Sunday, May 3 - Additional COVID-19 cases, deaths Confirmed
DES MOINES - Today, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of 528 additional positive cases for a total of 9,169 positive cases. There have been an additional 2,932 negative tests for a total of 44,017 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs. 77 percent of new positive cases today are in the 22 counties where restrictions remain in place.
According to IDPH, an additional 9 deaths were also reported, 378 are currently hospitalized, and 3,325 Iowans have recovered. At this time, 1 in 59 Iowans have already been tested.
According to IDPH the additional 9 deaths were reported in the following counties:
- Black Hawk County, 2 elderly adults (81+)
- Bremer County. 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Dallas County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Dubuque, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Polk County, 2 older adults (61-80 years)
- Poweshiek County, 2 elderly adults (81+)
The state of Iowa has released an updated dashboard on coronavirus.iowa.gov that will be updated daily to include comprehensive tracking of COVID-19 in Iowa. The new dashboard includes cases, deaths, and tests conducted in each county. The state is now providing demographic information that was not previously provided as well as Iowa’s epidemiological curve.
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Saturday, May 2 - 757 additional positive cases, death toll grows by five
DES MOINES - Today, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of 757 additional positive cases for a total of 8,641 positive cases. There have been an additional 3,377 negative tests for a total of 41,085 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs. 87 percent of new positive cases today are in the 22 counties where restrictions remain in place. 493 of the new 757 positive cases are from Black Hawk, Dallas, Polk and Woodbury counties.
As Governor Reynolds mentioned in yesterday’s press conference, the state of Iowa will report large case counts this weekend as SHL completes reporting from a high volume of tests processed this week.
According to IDPH, an additional 5 deaths were also reported, 353 are currently hospitalized, and 3,156 Iowans have recovered. At this time, 1 in 63 Iowans have already been tested.
According to IDPH the additional 5 deaths were reported in the following counties:
- Linn County, 2 older adults (61-80 years)
- Polk County , 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Tama County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Woodbury County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
The state of Iowa has released an updated dashboard on coronavirus.iowa.gov that will be updated daily to include comprehensive tracking of COVID-19 in Iowa. The new dashboard includes cases, deaths, and tests conducted in each county. The state is now providing demographic information that was not previously provided as well as Iowa’s epidemiological curve.
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Friday, May 1 - Additional COVID-19 Cases in Iowa, Additional Deaths Confirmed
DES MOINES - Today, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of 739 additional positive cases for a total of 7,884 positive cases. There have been an additional 2,186 negative tests for a total of 37,708 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs. The number of positive cases will continue to grow as Test Iowa sites open and additional surveillance testing of large businesses and nursing home staff continues.
According to IDPH, an additional 8 deaths were also reported, 345 are currently hospitalized, and 2,899 Iowans have recovered. At this time, 1 in 69 Iowans have already been tested.
According to IDPH the additional 8 deaths were reported in the following counties:
- Bremer County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Linn County, 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years)
- Muscatine County, 1 older adult (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Polk County, 2 elderly adults (81+)
- Scott County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)
The state of Iowa has released an updated dashboard on coronavirus.iowa.gov that will be updated daily to include comprehensive tracking of COVID-19 in Iowa. The new dashboard includes cases, deaths, and tests conducted in each county. The state is now providing demographic information that was not previously provided as well as Iowa’s epidemiological curve.
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11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 30 - 306 new positive COVID-19 cases, 14 additional deaths
During her press conference Thursday, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced 306 new positive cases of COVID-19 and 14 additional deaths throughout the state of Iowa. Clay County's confirmed cases increased by one to a total of four, with three having recovered at this time.
More information will be available with an official release from the governor's office later today.
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1:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 29 - 467 additional positive cases, 12 deaths
DES MOINES - Today, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of 467 additional positive cases for a total of 6,843 positive cases. There have been an additional 1,047 negative tests for a total of 34,494 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs. The number of positive cases will continue to grow as Test Iowa sites open and additional surveillance testing of large businesses and nursing home staff continues.
According to IDPH, an additional 12 deaths were also reported, 323 are currently hospitalized, and 2,428 Iowans have recovered. At this time, 1 in 76 Iowans have already been tested.
According to IDPH the additional 12 deaths were reported in the following counties:
- Black Hawk County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Dubuque County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Jasper County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Linn County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Marshall County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Muscatine County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Polk County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Pottawattamie County, 1 adult (18-40 years)
- Washington County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
The state of Iowa has released an updated dashboard on coronavirus.iowa.gov that will be updated daily to include comprehensive tracking of COVID-19 in Iowa. The new dashboard includes cases, deaths, and tests conducted in each county. The state is now providing demographic information that was not previously provided as well as Iowa’s epidemiological curve.
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11:16 a.m. Tuesday, April 28 - 508 more positive COVID-19 tests, nine more deaths statewide
Another 508 Iowa residents have tested positive for COVID-19, in numbers released Tuesday. That brings the statewide total of COVID-19 confirmed cases to 6,376.
Nine additional deaths have been reported, for a total of 136 in Iowa.
Clay County numbers remain the same, with three confirmed COVID-19 cases, all of whom have recovered. A total of 116 tests have been conducted in Clay County throughout the crisis, an increase of two since yesterday.
Statewide, 39,823 COVID-19 tests have been conducted.
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3:52 p.m. Monday, April 27 - Deliberate approach to reinstating elective surgery planned at Spencer Hospital
On Friday, Iowa’s Governor Kim Reynolds announced that under certain parameters, Iowa hospitals could begin re-offering elective surgeries as of Monday, April 27. Spencer Hospital will be taking deliberate steps in re-initiating elective procedures.
“Spencer Hospital, in collaboration with its medical staff, is evaluating a plan to reinstate elective surgeries in a measured way,” commented hospital president Bill Bumgarner.
“Currently, it’s not anticipated elective procedures will be resumed before May 11. Patients will be prescreened in a careful manner for COVID-19 symptoms and other potential risk factors before being eligible to be scheduled for an elective surgery,” Bumgarner stated. The hospital’s surgery center has continued to provide urgent and emergency surgeries.
Bumgarner added: “The safety of its patients and healthcare team is the hospital’s priority during this public health emergency. Spencer Hospital will communicate significant updates about elective surgeries and other services to keep the public informed.”
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3:50 p.m. Monday, April 27 - Spencer Hospital fitness center to remain temporarily closed
On Monday, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds shared a list of businesses which could reopen with restrictions beginning May 1. This list included fitness centers.
Jason Trierweiler, director for the Athletic Enhancement & Adult Fitness, and director for Cardiopulmonary Services, said that with positive Covid-19 cases continuing to increase in Iowa, those services will not open May 1.
“We miss our clients – both our cardiopulmonary rehab members and our AE members,” Trierweiler said. “Yet, we feel it’s in the best interest of those very people that we wait until we can see a downward trend in positive Covid-19 cases in the Midwest. Our facility is different than many fitness centers as AE is located within a hospital. We want to limit people entering the hospital to mitigate the risk of the virus spreading.”
Trierweiler added: We’ve been in regular contact with our cardiopulmonary clients and will continue to check in with them regarding their health as well as our plans to recommence services. Likewise, we’ll announce to our AE members when we can resume fitness center services. We all look forward to that day.”
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3:47 p.m. Monday, April 27 - IWD announces guidance on unemployment benefits
DES MOINES – Iowans who have been placed on a temporary layoff related to COVID-19 but refuse to return to work when recalled by their employer will lose unemployment benefits, except for certain circumstances including:
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 and are experiencing symptoms;
If you have recovered but it caused medical complications rendering you unable to perform essential job duties;
If a member of your household has been diagnosed with COVID-19;
If you are providing care for a member of your household who was diagnosed with COVID-19;
If you do not have childcare due to COVID-19 reasons; or
If you do not have transportation to your place of work because of COVID-19.
Employees in any of these positions are strongly encouraged to work with their employer in the best way to handle the situation to return to work.
Refusing to return to work when recalled for any other reason, or in an attempt to continue to draw unemployment benefits will be considered a "voluntary quit" which would disqualify a claimant from receiving benefits, including the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation benefit of $600/weekly. An employee who is recalled on a part-time basis may continue to be eligible for benefits depending on the amount of wages they earn. They should continue filing their weekly claims and report the gross wages they earned each week. Additionally, the self-employed should continue to report their weekly gross income as part of their continuing claims as they return to work.
"The additional unemployment benefits that are provided under the CARES Act are meant to be temporary in nature and bridge the gap between the outbreak and a return to normal,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “For Iowans whose employment may be permanently affected by the outbreak, we have many training opportunities under Future Ready Iowa to help them obtain training and begin a new career in a high-demand, high-paying job."
Businesses should report employees who refuse to return to work without good reason or who quit their jobs as soon as possible to IWD at https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/job-offer-decline-form-employers
While an employee may have temporarily earned more in benefits than they earn in wages, the CARES Act outlines serious consequences for fraud, including fines, confinement and ineligibility for future unemployment benefits until all fraudulent claims and fines have been repaid should an individual continue to claim benefits they are not otherwise eligible for because of a change in their employment situation.
For more information, please visit www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov
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12:24 p.m. Monday, April 27 - Additional Covid-19 Cases reported, plan for reopening announced
Iowa reported another 349 Covid-19 cases today, bringing the total cases statewide to 5,858, with nine additional deaths reported.
The total deaths from COVID-19 in the state now stands at 127.
Clay County had no additional cases reported. The total number of tests given in the county is 114, with three positive cases, all of whom have recovered.
Across the state, a total of 38,150 tests have been conducted.
During her press conference this morning, the Governor announced the reopening of businesses in 77 counties across the state, beginning this Friday, May 1. We will have more detailed information on that later this afternoon.
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3:43 p.m. Friday, April 24 - 521 additional COVID-19 cases reported, 11 more deaths
DES MOINES - Today, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of 521 additional positive cases for a total of 4,445 positive cases. There have been an additional 2,190 negative tests for a total of 27,528 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs.
Clay County numbers remain stable, with three cases, all of whom have recovered. A total of 99 tests have been reported in the county.
According to IDPH, an additional 11 deaths were also reported, 278 are currently hospitalized, and 1,604 Iowans have recovered.
According to IDPH the additional 11 deaths were reported in the following counties:
- Bremer County, 1 elderly adults (81+)
- Black Hawk County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)
- Linn County, 2 older adults (61-80 years), 2 elderly adults (81+)
- Polk County, 2 elderly adults (81+)
- Scott County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
The state of Iowa has released an updated dashboard on coronavirus.iowa.gov that will be updated daily to include comprehensive tracking of COVID-19 in Iowa. The new dashboard includes cases, deaths, and tests conducted in each county. The state is now providing demographic information that was not previously provided as well as Iowa’s epidemiological curve.
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9:36 p.m. Thursday, April 23 - Spencer Avera Clinic adjusts 'Quick Care' hours
Effective immediately, Avera Medical Group Spencer has temporarily adjusted hours for Quick Care services. The clinic is open each weekday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with afternoon Quick Care hours until 5 p.m. On Saturdays, Quick Care services will be open from 8-11 a.m. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, all visits are by appointment only. “During the week, we offer three distinct clinic services,” explained Nate McCormick, clinic manager. These include: - Virtual appointments which are conducted online between a provider and patient; - An in-person respiratory clinic which uses a separate entrance for anyone experiencing respiratory illness type symptoms such as a cough, shortness of breath or fever; and - In-person appointments for non-respiratory issues McCormick encouraged anyone with a health concern to call the clinic. “We’ve heard stories that some people are avoiding calling their physician’s office, thinking we’re only providing care for emergencies or patients who have Covid-related symptoms. We don’t want people to put off their health issues that we can address today. Call us and our health teams can determine if an in-person or online appointment is best, or if the need for a visit can be delayed for a short period of time, which is typically appointments such as routine physicals when no health concerns are present.” He added, “During our Saturday Quick Care services, our healthcare team is available to see patients with health concerns which feel urgent, yet are not an emergency. For example, patients with health issues such as low-grade fevers, bothersome earaches and sore throats. Quick care does not replace the emergency room for critical care nor does it take the place of routine appointments and more comprehensive scheduled exams with a patient’s physician.” Avera Medical Group Spencer is a family practice group which includes 12 physicians trained in family medicine and seven family medicine advance practice providers. To call for an appointment at AMGS dial 264-3500.
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7:41 p.m. Thursday, April 23 - Memorial Day parade, ceremony cancelled in Spencer
Memorial Day 2020 The Avenue of Flags committee along with the VFW and American Legion felt that during this COVID-19 pandemic and in conjunction with the govenor's guidelines, it is in the best interest of our community to cancel the Memorial Day parade and ceremony. We feel that by making this difficult decision we are doing our part to keep everyone healthy and safe. The Avenue of Flags plans to continue to take in flags for dedication. All flags received after Memorial Day 2019 until May 2021 will be dedicated in 2021's ceremony. Thank you for your understanding and all of your support!
The Avenue of Flags
The VFW
The American Legion
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10:51 a.m. Thursday, April 23 - Flagfest 2020 cancelled
Spencer, IA – Based on advice from local health care officials and the recommendations by Governor Reynolds the Spencer Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Flagfest Committee have determined to cancel Flagfest 2020. Flagfest includes: the parade, river float, The Chill, and all other activities associated with the event.
The goal with cancelling Flagfest 2020 is to decrease the risk of exposure in large groups and therefore, minimize the chances of the COVID-19 virus from spreading.
The Flagfest Committee is working on a few events that will meet the social distancing guidelines and be for the complete community be able to participate. The new Spencer Together events will be introduced in May.
For questions, please contact Becky Fear-Hatting, Program Director – Spencer Chamber of Commerce at (712) 262-5680 or programs@spenceriowachamber.org.
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12:58 p.m. Wednesday, April 22 - 107 positive COVID-19 cases, seven deaths announced
A total of 107 positive Covid-19 cases were reported today in Iowa, with seven deaths. Clay County has had no new cases, with a total of three, two of those having been recovered. A total of 90 tests have been conducted in Clay County to this point.
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4:28 p.m. Governor launches Test Iowa Initiative to expand testing capacity
DES MOINES - Today, Governor Kim Reynolds launched the Test Iowa Initiative to expand testing capacity to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Iowa. The state is partnering with Nomi Health and its subsidiary DOMO which has already launched a similar initiative in the state of Utah.
Gov. Reynolds made the announcement at today’s news conference.
“Iowa is now the second state in the nation to deploy this ambitious initiative, and starting today I am encouraging Iowans to go to testIowa.com to complete their own health assessment,” said Gov. Reynolds. “This type of information will help Iowans assess eligibility for testing and further inform the state’s response to COVID-19.”
The Test Iowa Initiative includes an assessment that was developed in coordination with the Iowa Department of Public Health and it will better inform Iowans of their current health status, whether or not they should get a COVID-19 test, and instructions on how to get tested. The assessment asks about existing symptoms and occupational considerations.
Governor Reynolds also kicked off the #TestIowaChallenge in a video encouraging Iowans to go to testIowa.com and complete the assessment. The #TestIowaChallenge encourages all Iowans regardless of symptoms to take the assessment and get tested if needed. Those part of the essential workforce are especially encouraged to take the assessment and then get tested if needed.
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11:28 a.m. - Nearly 500 Iowans tested positive for COVID-19, with four additional deaths
A total of 482 Iowans tested positive for COVID-19 statewide in numbers released today. Four persons died on Tuesday, bringing the total deaths attributed to COVID-19 to 83. Clay County remains at a total of three cases, with two of those recovered at this time.
A total of 85 persons in Clay County have been tested for COVID-19.
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5:08 p.m. Monday, April 20 - Additional 257 COVID-19 cases in Iowa, four deaths reported
Today, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of 257 additional positive cases for a total of 3,159 positive cases. There have been an additional 1,013 negative tests for a total of 22,661 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs. Of these new cases, 27 can be attributed to Tyson employees and 19 to National Beef employees.
According to IDPH, an additional 4 deaths were also reported, 214 are currently hospitalized, and 1,235 Iowans have recovered.
According to IDPH the additional 4 deaths were reported in the following counties.
- Black Hawk County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)
- Linn County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Mahaska County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)
46 of today’s 257 new positive cases are part of surveillance testing for meat processing facilities. Of those new positives: 27 were Tyson employees and 19 were National Beef employees.
The state of Iowa has released an updated dashboard on
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