Des Moines Register

Get more information about COVID-19 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at CDC.gov/coronavirus, or call 211, the Iowa Department of Public Heath's hotline, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Personnel at health care facilities, schools, the state government and businesses in Iowa are taking a series of measures in response to the novel coronavirus, which causes a disease known as COVID-19.

► Looking for the latest? Here's what we know, April 13-19.

Here's the latest on what Iowans need to know:

Wells Fargo Arena is offering curbside pickup

April 28:Wells Fargo Arena is offering curbside pickup beginning Friday, May 1, at 5 p.m. for pickup Sunday, May 3, from 4 p.m.- 7 p.m. The "Wells Fargo Arena Experience Package" is $40 and includes:

(4) Nathan's Hot Dogs

(8) Chicken Tenders

French Fries (2 pounds)

Popcorn (2 bags)

(4) Dasani Bottled Water

Elton John postpones "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" tour

April 23: Elton John postpones the remainder of his upcoming "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" 2020 tour dates due to the novel coronavirus.

"Previously postponed performances were from March 26 through May 2, 2020," a news release read.

John was scheduled to perform at the Wells Fargo Arena on June 11 but has moved dates to 2021.

Visit Iowaeventscenter.com for more information.

The Des Moines Symphony cancels all concerts through June 14

April 22: The Des Moines Symphony is canceling all concerts and public events through June 14 at the Des Moines Civic Center and the Temple for Performing Arts, a news release read.

The canceled shows include:

Masterworks 6: April in Paris (April 18 and 19)

Masterworks 7: The Firebird (May 9 and 10)

Sensory-Friendly Concert: American Folk Tales (June 14)

"Carmina Burana" slated for March 14 and 15 is rescheduled for Sept.19 and 20 at the Des Moines Civic Center. All tickets will be valid for rescheduled dates.

Tickets holders can visit the Symphony's website at Dmsymphony.org.covid19 before May 6 to indicate preferable ticket action. Requests must be made directly from the Symphony's website.

The DMSO is also calling for patrons to donate back the value of their tickets. Those who do can receive a tax deduction for the total ticket value "through a provision in the Federal CARES Act."

"The impact of canceling these performances and events will create significant financial hardships for performing arts organizations like ours," said Executive Director Richard Early.

"We respectfully request that our loyal ticketholders, please consider using their pre-purchased tickets to make a donation to the Des Moines Symphony in lieu of requesting refunds. This will help us plan confidently for a financially stable return to the Civic Center in the fall."

Visit dmsymphony.org for more information and updates.

2020 Des Moines Book Sale gets canceled

April 16: The 2020 Spring Break Book Sale is canceled for this spring.

"While we'll be sad to miss it, the health and safety of our volunteers and everyone who enjoys the Book Sale must come first," a news release read.

The Des Moines Book Sale has been a part of Iowa's cultural life for six decades and will continue into the fall for the Book Sale's 60th anniversary.

Book worms can visit the Book Sale website for the announcement on fall dates.

State announces 7 more COVID-19 deaths, 77 new positive tests

April 12: The Iowa Department of Public Health announced Sunday that 7 more Iowans have died from COVID-19.

Iowa's death total is now at 41.

The state also reported that another 77 positive tests were confirmed in the state, bringing Iowa's total to 1,587 confirmed cases. An additional 383 negative tests were reported, placing the statewide total at 16,005 to date.

Sunday's numbers do not reflect a complete 24-hour cycle of testing, according to Sunday's news relaese, as IDPH is transitioning to new reporting time frames.

According to the IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 7 who have died include:

Linn County, 2 older adults (61-80 years), 4 elderly adults (81+)

Washington County, 1 elderly adult (81+)

According to the IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 77 who tested positive include:

Benton County, 1 older adult (61-80 years) Black Hawk County, 1 child (0-17 years), 1 adult (18-40 years), 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years), 1 elderly (81+) Buchanan County, 1 adult (18-40 years) Clinton County, 1 adult (18-40 years) Des Moines County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years) Dubuque County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years) Jasper County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years) Johnson County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 7 middle-age adults (41-60 years) Linn County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years), 1 elderly (81+) Louisa County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 5 middle-age adults (41-60 years) Lyon County, 1 adult (18-40 years) Marshall County, 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years) Muscatine County, 4 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years) Osceola County, 1 middle-age adult (18-40 years) Polk County, 6 adults (18-40 years), 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 3 older adults (61-80 years), 2 elderly adults (81+) Scott County, 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80) Tama County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years) Warren County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years) Washington County, 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years)

► More:Updated COVID-19 maps and charts track cases and data in Iowa and across the U.S.

Scooping the loop makes a resurgence amid coronavirus outbreak

April 12: On Saturday, Stuart joined the growing list of small towns in Iowa that have been bringing back the state's traditions of scooping the loop and cruise nights.

That's not to say the tradition had gone anywhere, but as social distancing measures grew stricter as the global COVID-19 pandemic spread, communities are organizing Scoop the Loops and cruise nights in full force to support local businesses and, frankly, to give residents an excuse to get out of the house.

"A couple of weeks ago, I said to my niece, 'We need to do something for Stuart,' " said Barb Boss, the organizer of the Stuart Cruise Night that took place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday.

► More:Scooping the loop, an Iowa tradition, makes a resurgence across the state as communities grapple with social-distancing measures

Des Moines churches team up to offer a drive-in Easter service

Help us report this story

The news surrounding the coronavirus outbreak in Iowa is unlike anything the Register has covered. We'll be updating this story as news develops.

You can read what happened in central Iowa prior to this week regarding COVID-19 here.

You can help us report this story by letting us know how novel coronavirus is affecting your routine, your workplace and your day-to-day family life. We also take requests: Just tell us what you want to know. Send news tips to our online contact form, or call us at 515-284-8065.​​​​​​​

Iowa lags most states in COVID-19 tests per capita

April 11: Iowa's COVID-19 testing on a per-capita basis lags behind most other states, according to a Register analysis of public testing data.

As of Friday afternoon, Iowa reported 15,953 total test results for COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus. That equals about 524 tests per 100,000 Iowans — or No. 39 on the rankings of all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

Thirteen states and Washington, D.C., have reported more than double the tests per capita that Iowa has, according to the analysis. The average tests per capita across all 50 states and the capital is 832, or over 300 more people per 100,000 population higher than where Iowa was as of Friday.

► Analysis: Iowa is 39th in COVID-19 tests per capita

Virus creates uncertain budget outlook for state officials

April 11: Officials are bracing for the coronavirus to hit Iowa's state revenues hard, but no one knows how bad the impact will be.

The answer seems to be: It depends on how long this all lasts.

With COVID-19 causing the government to close down public-facing businesses and ban social gatherings, Iowa's unemployment numbers are skyrocketing and small businesses are asking for $148 million to mitigate the damage.

Those factors mean that income and sales taxes — which together make up about 90% of state revenues — are likely to take a big hit. The longer the virus continues to spread and prevent the economy from reopening, the bigger the losses.

► More: COVID-19 will have 'drastic impact' on Iowa's budget

14 residents in Cedar Rapids nursing home have died from coronavirus

April 11: Heritage Specialty Care, a Cedar Rapids nursing home that is considered a hot spot for Iowa's COVID-19 cases, announced Saturday that 14 out of 60 residents who tested positive for COVID-19 have died.

With no cure, the global pandemic hits people 60 and older the hardest.

"Heritage Specialty Care has experienced a total of 60 residents and 30 staff members testing positive since March 24, 2020. We are saddened to report as of end of day, Friday, April 10, 2020, 14 of the 60 residents testing positive have passed away," the facility wrote in a statement.

► More:Iowa's COVID-19 hot spot: 14 residents in Cedar Rapids nursing home have died after battling coronavirus

State announces 3 more COVID-19 deaths, 122 new positive tests

April 11: The Iowa Department of Public Health announced Saturday that three more Iowans have died from COVID-19. The individuals were all above the age of 60 and located in the counties of Crawford, Johnson and Madison.

Iowa's death total is now at 32.

The state also reported that another 122 positive tests were confirmed in the state, bringing Iowa's total to 1,510 confirmed cases. An additional 1,057 negative tests were reported, placing the statewide total at 15,622 to date.

According to the IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 122 who tested positive include:

Allamakee County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Benton County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Black Hawk County, 3 adults (18-40 years), 3 older adults (61-80 years)

Bremer County, 1 elderly adult (81+)

Buena Vista County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Clayton County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Clinton County, 4 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Dallas County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Delaware County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Henry County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Jefferson County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Johnson County, 7 adults (18-40 years), 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years)

Linn County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 4 older adults (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Louisa County, 4 adults (18-40 years), 9 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Madison County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Marion County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Marshall County, 7 adults (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Muscatine County, 8 adults (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Polk County, 9 adults (18-40 years), 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 5 older adults (61-80 years)

Scott County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 5 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 6 older adults (61-80 years)

Tama County, 3 adults (18-40 years), 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Wapello County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Washington County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Woodbury County, 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years)

​​​​​​​More:Updated COVID-19 maps and charts track cases and data in Iowa and across the U.S.

Help us report this story

The news surrounding the coronavirus outbreak in Iowa is unlike anything the Register has covered. We'll be updating this story as news develops.

You can read what happened in central Iowa prior to this week regarding COVID-19 here.

You can help us report this story by letting us know how novel coronavirus is affecting your routine, your workplace and your day-to-day family life. We also take requests: Just tell us what you want to know. Send news tips to our online contact form, or call us at 515-284-8065.​​​​​​​

County medical examiners brace for possible surge in deaths

April 10: As the novel coronavirus began to claim its first lives in Iowa, Washington County Medical Examiner Paul Towner did quick calculations and went online to buy 200 body bags to add to his county’s stockpile.

They were on back order because of high demand.

“Our county has 22,000 people in it,” said Towner, walking through the infection and mortality rates that led him to believe he could be handling as many as 300 deaths from COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus.

Towner is among the Iowa medical examiners watching with anxiety the scenes unfolding in New York and New Jersey. There, coronavirus-related deaths have spiked so dramatically that local coroners and funeral home directors are running out of places to store bodies.

► More: Iowa's county medical examiners brace for a surge in coronavirus-related deaths they hope will never come

Iowa issues 'shortage order' for PPE

April 10: Iowa faces a shortage of medical-grade protective equipment so severe that the state government is ordering use beyond typical manufacturer guidelines.

The new order allows health care workers to wear expired face masks and gowns, use the same equipment during multiple patient contacts and reuse single-use equipment. It also authorizes health care facilities to more quickly discharge COVID-19 patients once they stabilize.

Iowa Department of Public Health Deputy Director Sarah Reisetter acknowledged that “people are scared,” and said the state is doing everything it can to stock up on supplies. Some health care facilities have already been operating on extended-use guidelines for protective equipment, in part prompting the statewide order.

► More: State issues 'shortage order' over lack of protective medical equipment

Senior living company discloses COVID-19 cases at its sites

April 10: Andy Eby’s senior living centers are doing something that Iowa's health department won’t: Publish notice of every single COVID-19 case at its facilities.

“This hide-and-hope mentality, I just don’t feel that’s the way to go,” Eby said. “Our customers want transparency.”

Eby is an owner of Bickford Senior Living, which operates in 13 Iowa locations as well as dozens of additional sites in 10 other states.

Residents and staff of nursing facilities are particularly vulnerable to spread of the highly contagious coronavirus and the illness it causes, COVID-19, because of the nature of congregate living and because the people living there fit the profile of those most at risk for serious illness and death from the disease — over 60 and with underlying medical conditions.

► More: One Iowa senior living facility owner's answer to coronavirus: Transparency

Coronavirus puts the brakes on Easter travel

April 10: Iowans are taking advice to stay at home seriously, with all forms of travel dropping significantly ahead of the usually busy Easter weekend.

Des Moines International Airport reported Friday that it had seen a decline in passenger traffic through the first week of April, continuing an unprecedented decrease that began in March with the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Only 1,307 passengers flew in and out of the state’s largest airport between April 1 and April 7, according to airport spokesperson Kayla Kovarna — a roughly 95% decrease compared to the same time last year. Des Moines International also is expecting more than 575 fewer flights this month.

► More: Traditionally a busy time, travel lagging this Easter season

IHSAA, IGHSAU still planning for statewide spring sports

April 10: The Iowa High School Athletic Association and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union are both hoping to begin the spring sports season on May 1, even though, as things currently stand, Des Moines Public Schools would not be participating.

On Thursday, DMPS, one of Iowa's largest school districts, announced it has canceled all spring sports for its member schools due to concerns over spread of the coronavirus. It said it will re-evaluate things on June 1 to make a determination on if there will be practices and competition for summer sports.

DMPS is also canceling all performing arts events and proms. It is exploring alternative commencement methods that don't involve thousands of people all in one area.

► More: Spring prep sports seasons remain in flux

Thousands of Wells Fargo employees will work from home

April 10: A Wells Fargo & Co. spokesman said "thousands" of call center employees in Des Moines and West Des Moines offices will be working from home by next week.

Spokesman Steve Carlson said in an emailed statement that some employees will continue to work in the offices but will remain "an appropriate distance" from each other. He said the company also will stagger shifts to help keep workers separated.

Two employees, as well as a cafeteria contractor, have tested positive for COVID-19 at a West Des Moines call center from March 29 to April 4. Wells Fargo is sending employees who had contact with the infected workers home for two weeks, Carlson said.

Iowan songstress Iris DeMent pens tribute to late singer John Prine

April 10: Musician and Iowan Iris DeMent penned a tribute to later singer John Prine, who passed away from complications due to COVID-19 on April 7. DeMent has known Prine for approximately 30 years, recorded, and toured with him.

“It is my prayer that all the love he gave to this world will be returned ten-fold to his family — the ones he cherished the most — and that that love will help sustain them through their grief,” DeMent’s tribute read.

“John Prine was, without a doubt, one of the greatest songwriters this world will ever know,” she also stated.

Read the full tribute at IrisDeMent.com.

2 COVID-19 deaths, 118 positive tests reported

April 10: Two Linn County residents with COVID-19 in Iowa have died, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced during a Friday news conference, bringing the statewide total to 31.

Additionally, another 118 people statewide have tested positive for COVID-19, Reynolds said. There have been 1,388 positive tests in iowa.

An additional 862 negative tests were reported, which brings the statewide total to 14,565 negative tests by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs, according to Iowa Department of Public Health.

One of the Linn County deaths reported Friday was an older adult (61-80 years) and the other was an elderly adult (81+).

According to IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 118 who tested positive individuals include:

Allamakee County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60)

Black Hawk County, 6 adults (18-40 years), 7 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Cedar County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Clarke County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Clayton County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Clinton County, 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Dubuque County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Fayette County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Harrison County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Henry County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Jasper County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Johnson County, 1 child (0-17 years), 5 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Linn County, 3 adults (18-40 years), 4 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Louisa County, 5 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 3 older adults (61-80 years)

Marshall County, 2 adults (41-60 years)

Muscatine County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 8 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Osceola County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Polk County, 6 adults (18-40 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Pottawattamie County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Scott County, 3 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years, 1 elderly adult (81+)

Tama County, 4 adults (18-40 years), 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years)

Union County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Wapello County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Warren County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Washington County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Winnebago County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Woodbury County, 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years)

Help us report this story

The news surrounding the coronavirus outbreak in Iowa is unlike anything the Register has covered. We'll be updating this story as news develops.

You can read what happened in central Iowa prior to this week regarding COVID-19 here.

You can help us report this story by letting us know how novel coronavirus is affecting your routine, your workplace and your day-to-day family life. We also take requests: Just tell us what you want to know. Send news tips to our online contact form, or call us at 515-284-8065.​​​​​​​

VA Central Iowa Health Care System hiring clinical staff during pandemic

April 10: VA Central Iowa Health Care System announced Friday it is hiring temporary health care workers to help support the COVID-19 response.

The system is hiring positions ranging from physicians to anesthesiologists and from respiratory therapists to housekeeping assistants.

In addition, VA Central Iowa Health Care System is reaching out to recent retirees with experience in high-need areas to help during the COVID-19 response.

Health care workers are among the highest filing for unemployment as their services are deemed "non-essential" during the pandemic.

Job opportunities can be found online at www.vacareers.va.gov.

Iowa's rural economy reeling from pandemic shutdown

April 9: From manufacturing to farming to mom-and-pop Main Street businesses, Iowa's rural economy faces widespread challenges as it battles through the coronavirus crisis.

"Many of the industries in rural Iowa were in trouble to start with," said Patty Judge, the state's former lieutenant governor and a rural Iowa advocate.

Among the issues that have hurt rural Iowa are trade wars that pummeled corn, soybean, pork and other commodity prices, requiring $28 billion in federal farm assistance programs. Also a factor are the Trump administration's waivers that exempt small refineries from blending ethanol into its gasoline. The ethanol industry says the waivers have crushed demand for billions of gallons of renewable fuel, much of it made from corn.

► More: From closed factories to falling corn prices, coronavirus pandemic hurts rural Iowa

Officials confident Iowa has enough beds, ventilators to handle surge

April 9: ​​​​​​​Assuming Iowans practice full social distancing through the end of May, the outlook for how many could die from the coronavirus should improve dramatically, according to a leading forecasting model used by the White House to track the pandemic.

As the forecast trends downward, Gov. Kim Reynolds and her team tracking the virus say they feel confident — at this point in time — Iowa will have enough hospital beds and ventilators if the state reaches its predicted peak of positive cases and deaths by the end of April.

The state has presented data over the last several days that show Iowa has 4,029 hospital beds, 411 intensive care unit beds and 642 ventilators available for new patients across six regions, known as Regional Medical Coordination Centers. The data is a snapshot in time from April 6-8.

► More: Will Iowa have enough hospital beds, ventilators for coronavirus surge? The latest projections look promising.

Groups criticize Reynolds' day of prayer declaration

April 9: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds declared Thursday a day of prayer as the state continues to battle the coronavirus, but one group says that's not her place.

Interfaith Alliance of Iowa pushed back on the proclamation, which specifically references Judaism and Christianity and includes a Bible passage.

"I think it’s a violation of our First Amendment and that the government should not establish a religion," said Interfaith Alliance Executive Director Connie Ryan. "When an elected official uses their position as a government representative, they should be careful not to promote one religion."

► More: Religious freedom groups question governor's prayer declaration

Iowa company delivering hand sanitizer to whiskey fans

April 9: RackHouse Whiskey Club, a Des Moines-based craft whiskey subscription box service, will include hand sanitizer made with 190-proof vodka in its next shipments.

Solar Spirits Distillery made the hand sanitizer, which is paired with moonshine and bourbon from 2bar Spirits in boxes set to ship on Saturday. Both featured distilleries are based in Washington State, an early coronavirus hot spot.

“As one of the regions hardest hit by the coronavirus, we’re proud to be partnering with two Washington distilleries to highlight how this industry pulls together in a time of need,” said RackHouse Whiskey Club CEO Dannie Strable in a news release. “We wanted to make sure our members remain safe so what better way to do that than by providing them with hand sanitizer made from vodka!”

2 COVID-19 deaths, another 125 positive tests reported

April 9: Another two people with COVID-19 in Iowa have died, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced during a Thursday news conference. To date, 29 people have died.

Additionally, another 125 people have tested positive for COVID-19, Reynolds said. Statewide, there have been 1,270 positive tests. There also were 882 negative tests, bringing the statewide total to 13,703 negative tests reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs.

The two people who died were both from Linn County. One was an older adult (61-80 years) and the other was an elderly adult (81+).

According to IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 125 individuals who tested positive include:

Benton County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 2 middle age adults (41-60 years)

Black Hawk County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle age adult (41-60 years)

Boone County, 1 middle age adults (41-60 years)

Buchanan County, 1 middle age adult (41-60 years)

Cedar County, 1 middle age adults (41-60 years)

Cerro Gordo County, 1 middle age adult (41-60 years)

Chickasaw County, 1 middle age adults (41-60 years)

Clinton County, 1 child (0-17 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Dallas County, 1 middle age adult (41-60 years)

Dubuque County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 2 middle age adults (41-60 years)

Iowa County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Jasper County, 1 middle age adult (41-60 years)

Johnson County, 8 adults (18-40 years), 12 middle age adults (41-60 years), 4 older adults (61-80 years)

Jones County, 2 middle age adults (41-60 years)

Linn County, 1 child (0-17 years), 7 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle age adults (41-60 years), 3 older adults (61-80), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Louisa County, 4 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle age adults (41-60 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Marshall County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Muscatine County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 6 middle age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Polk County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 3 middle age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Scott County, 1 child (0-17 years), 6 adults (18-40 years), 2 middle age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Story County, 1 middle age adult (41-60 years)

Tama County, 3 adults (18-40 years), 9 middle age adults (41-60 years), 3 older adults (61-80 years), 2 elderly adults (81+)

Washington County, 2 middle age adults (41-60 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Winneshiek County, 1 middle age adult (41-60 years)

Woodbury County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

► More:Updated COVID-19 maps and charts track cases and data in Iowa and across the U.S.

Smithfield Foods closes Sioux Falls operation after COVID-19 outbreak

April 9: Smithfield Foods will close its Sioux Falls, South Dakota pork processing plant for three days, the company said Thursday.

The decision came less than 24 hours after Health Secretary Kim Malsam-Rysdom confirmed that more than 80 employees at the plant had tested positive for the new coronavirus.

The company said it will suspend operations in a large section of the plant on April 11 and completely shutter the Sioux Falls facility on April 12 and April 13.

"Smithfield is taking this action out of an abundance of caution for its 3,700 employees in Sioux Falls, a portion of whom have tested positive for COVID-19," said a statement Thursday.

During the closure, "essential employees" will clean and sanitize the plant, and install additional physical barriers to further enhance social distancing, the release said.

Employees will be paid for any previously scheduled hours during the temporary closure.

— Sioux Falls Leader Argus

Iowa Farm Bureau donates $100,000 to the Iowa Food Bank Association

April 9: The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, the state’s largest farm organization, said it will donate $100,000 to the Iowa Food Bank Association to help Iowans who need assistance through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The food bank association says its network is seeing four times the number of new requests for food assistance, given several temporary business closures.

Farm Bureau said it would match up to $500 each donation made by any of Iowa’s 100 county farm bureaus to their local food bank from March 1 through April 24.

“We recognize this is an especially difficult time for so many Iowans,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Craig Hill.

Kemin Industries plans to spend $1 million in bonuses to thank front-line workers

April 9: Kemin Industries, the Des Moines company that makes nutritional ingredients for people, pets and livestock, said it plans to spend $1 million in bonuses for front-line employees working through the coronavirus outbreak.

The company said it wanted to thank team members in in North America, including Canada and Mexico, who cannot work from home during stay-at-home mandates and shelter-in-place orders.

Many of the essential jobs include handling inventory and equipment, production, research requiring a laboratory, security, process transactions, and those who facilitate the ability of other workers to do their jobs remotely.

"Despite the challenges that COVID-19 has brought us, Kemin team members have demonstrated infallible work ethic and a deep dedication to their role in protecting our food supply during this crisis," said Kemin CEO Chris Nelson.

"I'll never be able to fully convey how truly grateful I am for the effort these individuals put in every day,” Nelson said in a statement.

The family-owned business said it implemented other bonus programs and initiatives to support teams at its global locations, including Europe, China and Singapore.

Des Moines halts pickup of large trash items

April 9: Des Moines' Public Works Department has indefinitely halted its pickup of large items because of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

In a video posted to Youtube, Public Works Director Jonathan Gano said workers who pick up couches, tables and chairs puts them at additional risk to contract COVID-19.

“It’s a decision we had to make for the health and safety of our team,” he said.

He mentioned that residents can still dispose of large items in Metro Waste Authority landfills.

Garbage, recycling and yard waste will still be collected as normal. Residents can also leave old appliances outside to be picked up.

Iowa Association of Business & Industry cancels annual conference

April 9: The Iowa Association of Business & Industry announced Thursday morning that it has cancelled its annual conference, scheduled for June 9-11 in Cedar Rapids.

“The safety of ABI members, staff, and those who assist us with this event is our top priority,” said ABI President Mike Ralston said in a statement.

The organization expected 600 people to attend the Taking Care of Business Conference, a networking event for business leaders in the state. The ABI has already scheduled its next conference for June 2021.

Some told to stay home after 4 get virus at Iowa corn plant

April 8: CLINTON, Ia. (AP) — Some workers at a large corn processing plant in eastern Iowa have been told to stay home after four of their colleagues have tested positive for coronavirus.

Archer Daniels Midland spokeswoman Jackie Anderson said Wednesday that operations at the plant in Clinton are continuing but with staffing changes.

The company said that the four workers who have tested positive are in quarantine and recovering at home.

In addition, ADM said that it has asked all colleagues who worked “in close proximity" to the infected individuals to self-quarantine at home. Anderson would not say how many workers are currently at home due to their exposure.

“We are following CDC guidelines around social distancing, hygiene and temperature screening protocols to protect our employees at work, and we are taking other precautionary measures including deep cleaning at the facility to avoid additional spread,” Anderson said.

She said that plant, which employs about 800 people, still has enough employees to operate.

— Associated Press

Iowa Democratic Party announces remote county conventions

April 8: The Iowa Democratic Party announced Wednesday it will hold its county conventions remotely during the month of April. The conventions originally were scheduled for March 21 but were postponed because of the coronavirus.

When Iowans who were elected precinct delegates and alternates register to participate in their county convention, they'll have the option to participate online, over the phone or through the mail. Registration is open from April 13-17, and absentee balloting will take place from April 22-30.

The party's county conventions are used to elect delegates and alternates who are then sent on to the district and state conventions. Those delegates then elect Iowa’s national convention delegates.

Kum & Go launches full-service fueling

Saying it wants to provide a safer option to customers who are more susceptible to the coronavirus, Kum & Go is launching on-request full-service fueling in metro Des Moines.

Customers at several Kum & Go locations around the metro now may call from their cars and request that an employee pump their gas. The gloved employees will process the transaction using the customer's cash or card.

The service will be available at all Kum & Go locations beginning Monday. Hours will vary, but a company news release said most stores will offer full service from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

► Like the old days: Kum & Go offering full-service fueling during coronavirus pandemic

Governor declares Thursday a 'Day of Prayer'; Iowa Prayer Breakfast will go fully online this year

April 8: The 59th annual Iowa Prayer Breakfast will take place completely online this year because of the coronavirus outbreak, according to a news release from Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds.

Reynolds signed a proclamation Wednesday declaring Thursday as a “Day of Prayer” in Iowa, urging Iowans to “unite in prayer” as the coronavirus continues to spread across the state.

“We have all been impacted by COVID-19. Some of us have lost a loved one and others know those who are sick,” Reynolds said in the news release. “Whether you are a nurse on the front lines fighting the pandemic, a grocery store worker, the truck driver making a delivery or someone laid off at home, this has been a challenging and stressful time. Let us join together and pray for our neighbors, communities and state.”

Thursday is the beginning of the Jewish festival of Passover and is the Christian holy day Maundy Thursday, followed by Easter on Sunday.

The annual Iowa Prayer Breakfast will be 7:30 a.m. Thursday. Those wishing to attend the breakfast digitally can register online. The cost is free.

MidAmerican donates $500,000 to help fight hunger during coronavirus crisis

April 8: As food banks and other agencies combating hunger struggle with challenges that include short supplies and ensuring safety during the coronavirus pandemic, MidAmerican Energy Co. announced Wednesday that it will donate $500,000 to support them.

The Des Moines-based utility, which provides natural gas and electric power for a wide swath of Iowa and parts of neighboring states, said in a press release that its donation will go to more than 30 organizations throughout its service area, helping to fund food banks, community foundations and United Way agencies that provide food and other community needs.

It said the money will be directed to organizations “that have demonstrated their wide-reach and ability to serve their regional populations.”

The company also has suspended service disconnections during the crisis. The Iowa Utilities Board earlier this month ordered a moratorium through May 1 as tens of thousands of Iowans lose their jobs as a result of coronavirus-related business shutdowns.

► More: Philanthropic ways for Iowa to help during the pandemic

Spring clean-ups postponed because of COVID-19

April 8: Double-check online for spring-clean up schedules before you take out any large trash items this year: Metro Waste Authority has postponed “spring clean-up” pick ups around the Des Moines Metro due to the COVID-19 epidemic.

Services have been postponed in Altoona, Bondurant, Clive, Des Moines, Grimes, Johnston, Mitchellville, Pleasant Hill, Runnells, Urbandale, and West Des Moines, according to a news release from MWA. There has not been a rescheduled date set yet.

“The current public health emergency is effecting many aspects of our daily lives, and spring clean-up in some communities is no exception,” Metro Waste Authority Executive Director Michael McCoy said.

There are not currently any dates set for the rescheduled spring clean-ups. However, many other towns still have planned pick-ups in April, May and June: people in the Des Moines area can check their town’s specifications online.

If residents were depending on any large items being picked up through this program, they can still take those to the Metro Park East Landfill, which remains open from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on week days, and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends.

“We are committed to providing safe, smart disposal; and we are grateful for the resources we have to continue serving the changing needs of the metro,” McCoy said.

Updated information on spring clean-up times will be posted on the Metro Waste Authority’s website when it is announced.

'The Book of Mormon' canceled at Des Moines Performing Arts

April 8: The Willis Broadway series engagement of "The Book of Mormon" initially scheduled July 28- Aug. 2 has been canceled.

Ticket-holders will get a credit refund. If patrons purchased tickets with cash or check, a check would be mailed to the address associated with their account. According to a news release, a refund will appear on the credit statement between seven to 10 days. The mailing of checks may take longer.

The DMPA Tickets Office is limited to online communication and phone calls during this time. DMPA is working to reschedule shows and will inform patrons with further details.

Des Moines Playhouse will remain closed

April 8: The Des Moines Playhouse will remain closed until further notice for planning purposes and protections of students, teachers, staff and patrons.

“Once we have a return date and staff are allowed back in the building, we will reach out to every individual who purchased a ticket or a class and explore options which include turning your purchase into a donation, exchanging for another show or class, creating a credit for something in the future, or getting a refund,” a Des Moines Playhouse news release reads.

Wells Fargo to offer more Personal Paycheck Protection loans for small businesses

April 8: After the Federal Reserve lifted the banking giant's "asset cap" on Wednesday, Wells Fargo announced it will process more forgivable loans for small businesses.

Wells Fargo said it received 170,000 "indications of interest" in the Paycheck Protection Program loans over the weekend. But on Sunday night, it announced it could not take any more loan applications because of restrictions the Fed has placed on the bank.

As part of the stimulus bill approved March 27, Congress set aside $349 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program. Small businesses — generally those with 500 or fewer employees — can receive money to cover about 2½ months of payroll. If the owners spend that money on employee pay, rent, utilities and mortgage payments, the U.S. Small Business Administration will forgive the loans.

Banks are charged with administering the program. The Fed capped how much assets Wells Fargo could hold as punishment for the bank's scandal of creating fake accounts in customers' names. The Fed said Wednesday that Wells Fargo most give any money earned from processing the Paycheck Protection Program to a nonprofit for the U.S. Department of Treasury.

COVID-19 cases increase to 1,145 in Iowa

April 8: Another 97 people have tested positive for COVID-19, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Wednesday during a news conference. The number of positive cases in Iowa has increased to 1,145.

According to the Iowa Department of Health, a Linn County resident age 81 or older has died, bringing the statewide total to 27. Linn is one of the state's COVID-19 hot spots, with eight deaths and 197 positive tests, both of which are more than any other Iowa county.

According to IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 97 who tested positive include:

Allamakee County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Benton County, 1 child (0-17 years)

Black Hawk County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years)

Cedar County, 3 adults (18-40 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Clinton County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Crawford County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Harrison County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Henry County, 2 adults (18-40 years)

Johnson County, 10 adults (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 2 older adult (61-80 years)

Linn County, 1 child (0-17 years), 4 adults (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 3 older adults (61-80 years), 2 elderly adults (81+)

Louisa County, 4 adults (18-40 years), 5 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Marshall County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Muscatine County, 4 adults (18-40 years), 5 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Polk County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 4 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Pottawattamie County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Scott County, 4 adults (18-40 years), 7 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Tama County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Warren County, 1 elderly adult (81+)

Washington County, 3 adults (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Webster County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Woodbury County, 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years)

Worth County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

► More:Updated COVID-19 maps and charts track cases and data in Iowa and across the U.S.​​​​​​​

Des Moines schools will finish year with distance learning

Des Moines Public Schools announced Wednesday that the district will finish the academic year with online classes.

After closing its facilities on March 13, the district has decided not to return to in-person classes. Superintendent Thomas Ahart said in a statement that he does not believe returning shortly after the coronavirus' projected peak in mid-April is "in the best interest of the health of our students, staff and community."

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds on April 2 ordered that the state's schools closed through the end of the month. Districts have until Friday to inform the Iowa Department of Education of continuous learning measures they are putting in place, which can include online lessons, paper packets delivered to students, or a mixture of voluntary and required programs.

► More: Students and staff at Des Moines schools will finish the year online

Winnebago announces it resume production of some lines

April 8: Winnebago Industries announced Wednesday morning that workers will return to some of its factories next week.

The Forest City-based company halted production on its recreational vehicles on March 23, citing concern about the spread of COVID-19. In a news release, Winnebago said employees will begin making the company's Chris-Craft powerboats and some specialty vehicles next week.

The company plans to resume production of its Newmar Motorhomes, Grand Design RVs and Winnebago Motorhomes the week of May 4. Employees will begin making Winnebago towables again the week of May 18.

When it shut down production, Winnebago announced that employees would receive base pay and insurance benefits for two weeks. The company instructed workers to file for unemployment benefits for any other time they were off. In its news release Wednesday, the company said it would continue to pay its portion of health and dental insurance on behalf of the employees out of work through the end of April.

► More: Some Winnebago employees will return to work beginning next week

Iowa proclamations now seen as 'equivalent' to a 'stay-at-home' order

April 7: ​​​​​​​Gov. Kim Reynolds has resisted mounting calls to issue what other governors are calling “stay-at-home” or “shelter-in-place” orders, arguing that the proclamations she’s issued over the past month amount to the same thing in the end: a clear directive to Iowans to stay home and self-isolate in the face of a spreading coronavirus pandemic.

After taking new measures this week to further limit nonessential businesses and gatherings, some public health figures now say Iowa is roughly on par with those aggressive orders in other states — one month after the state saw its first positive coronavirus case.

► More: Does Iowa have the 'equivalent' of a 'stay-at-home' order? We asked the experts about the state's coronavirus approach

101-year-old Iowan reflects on 'Spanish flu' amid COVID-19

April 7: Ronald Mason was born in Adair County during the "Spanish flu" pandemic, just months after his brother died of flu complications. Gifford Mason was no more than nine months old when he died in 1918, Mason’s daughter Linda Hunter said.

One hundred and one years later, Ronald Mason is living through another global public health crisis. The active centenarian said he’s largely keeping to his schedule — working out for an hour every morning and reading voraciously every night — but is making changes such as getting his Hy-Vee groceries delivered to lower his risk of being infected with COVID-19.

Almost a year after he made a bucket-list skydive at age 100, Mason spoke in a phone interview from Edgewater at WesleyLife, a West Des Moines senior living community, about being born during a flu pandemic, his perspective on the coronavirus and how Iowans can stay healthy.

"Do what the medics want you to do," Mason said. "They don’t want you to be within six feet of anyone else. They don’t want you to be going to events where there are more than 10 people. If you have a fever, you should be aware that you shouldn’t be communicating with other people. "

► More:A 101-year-old Iowan's take on the coronavirus pandemic

National Guard delivers PPE to towns to help with COVID-19 response

April 7: Gov. Kim Reynolds praised the Iowa National Guard during her daily news briefing on the novel coronavirus, saying they play a critical role in the COVID-19 response team.

The Guard has made deliveries to 88 of Iowa's 99 counties, often hitting the road before many people have made their morning coffee.

"We get a lot of appreciation when we roll into towns," said Specialist Aaron Metheny, of Griswold. "That's the part that makes you feel good. Seeing people that are happy to see you."

► More:Iowa National Guard steps up to deliver aid, PPE to counties battling COVID-19

Iowa ethanol plants close, slow production as coronavirus curbs travel

April 7: Ethanol giant Poet said Tuesday it will idle production at two Iowa ethanol plants, citing falling vehicle fuel demand as Americans stay home to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Poet isn't alone. Renewable fuels production has dropped about 50% in Iowa through a combination of shutdowns and reduced output, the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association estimates. Most of the production cut comes from ethanol, the organization said.

"I know of at least seven ethanol plants and two biodiesel plants have shuttered, and I assume there are more," said Monte Shaw, the association's executive director.

The impact is significant in Iowa, the nation's largest producer of ethanol and biodiesel. About half of the state's corn production typically is used each year to make ethanol, and oil from its soybeans goes into biodiesel.

► More: Iowa plants close as coronavirus slashes travel and ethanol demand

Auditor says governor not answering 'basic questions' about assessment tool

April 7: Iowa state auditor Rob Sand said Tuesday that Gov. Kim Reynolds has failed to "answer basic questions" about the tool the state is using to assess the coronavirus pandemic.

Sand, a Democrat, said in a news release that his office has requested background information on the tool from the governor but has not received an answer.

"Basic questions that affect life and death matters should get answers. Good ones," he said in the release. "Instead, when asked why this tool should get used for decision-making, we got nothing. The public should take note."

Reynolds' administration is using a 12-point scale that weighs age, hospitalization, population and long-term care outbreaks to determine if and when a stay-at-home order is necessary, according to documents made public last week.

► More: State auditor Rob Sand says governor should be "trusting Iowans with basic information" about its assessment tool

COVID-19 cases increase to 1,048 in Iowa

April 7: Iowa has seen more than 1,000 positive COVID-19 tests, with the state reporting another 102 cases Tuesday.

Additionally, Gov. Kim Reynolds said during a news conference Tuesday that there was another death related to COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

On March 8, ​​​​​​​Reynolds announced the first three cases to be discovered in the state. Iowa's first death linked to COVID-19 was reported March 24.

Tuesday's announcement brings the statewide death toll to 26 and positive cases to 1,048. The reported death occurred in Benton County, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health. The person who died was at least 81 years old

According to IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 102 individuals who tested positive include:

Benton County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Black Hawk County, 3 adults (18-40 years)

Buena Vista County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Delaware County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Des Moines County, 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Dubuque County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle age (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Greene County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Hamilton County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Henry County, 1 child (0-17 years), 1 adult (18-40 years), 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years)

Johnson County, 10 adults (18-40 years), 4 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Linn County, 4 adults (18-40 years), 5 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Louisa County, 7 adults (18-40 years), 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 3 older adults (61-80 years)

Mahaska County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Marion County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Marshall County, 2 adults (18-40 years)

Muscatine County, 2 children (0-17 years), 3 adults (18-40 years), 3 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Polk County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Pottawattamie County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Scott County, 6 adults (18-40 years), 5 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 3 older adults (61-80 years)

Story County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Tama County, 3 older adults (61-80 years), 3 elderly (81+)

Warren County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Washington County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years), 1 elderly (81+)

Woodbury County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Help us report this story

The news surrounding the coronavirus outbreak in Iowa is unlike anything the Register has covered. We'll be updating this story as news develops.

You can read what happened in central Iowa prior to this week regarding COVID-19 here.

You can help us report this story by letting us know how novel coronavirus is affecting your routine, your workplace and your day-to-day family life. We also take requests: Just tell us what you want to know. Send news tips to our online contact form, or call us at 515-284-8065.

Outlets of Des Moines to host blood donation drive

April 7: Outlets of Des Moines, an outdoor shopping center in Altoona, will be hosting a blood drive Saturday, April 25, in partnership with LifeServe Blood Center.

“In these challenging times, Outlets of Des Moines is pleased to host this vital blood donation drive,” Outlet of Des Moines general manager T.J. Just said in a news release. “The need for blood donations is greater than ever and LifeServe provides a safe, convenient way to donate."

The blood drive is by appointment only: interested donors must schedule their visit using the LifeServe website.

The news release also cited that the Food and Drug Administration said the novel coronavirus "does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives."

But LifeServe is adhering to social distancing recommendations: the organization asks blood donors take keep from congregating at blood drives unnecessarily, and is taking "extensive disinfection measures" at their donation centers. The center is also screening staff and donors through a health questionnaire that can be completed on-site or online on the day of donation.

The Altoona blood drive will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Outlets of Des Moines, outside in space 325 near the store VF Outlet.

Des Moines Performing Arts 'The Band's Visit' gets postponed

April 6: The DMPA postponed next month's performance of "The Band's Visit" scheduled initially at the Des Moines Civic Center from May 12-17.

Individuals holding tickets should maintain their current tickets. DMPA's Ticket Office will be in touch with ticket holders who purchased directly from DMPA with more information.

Please visit DMPA.org for further updates

Science behind Iowa's coronavirus shelter-in-place metrics remains a mystery

April 6: Gov. Kim Reynolds deflected a question Monday asking her to make public the specific scientific data and sources used to develop Iowa’s 12-point system to determine if she issues a shelter-in-place order.

But she said other states have contacted Iowa’s health department to start using some of the metrics.

Reynolds didn’t name the states who are seeking Iowa’s coronavirus metrics and her staff have not answered follow-up questions about the matter.

Reynolds said Iowa’s metrics align with recommendations from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention and epidemiologists across the state. But she did not agree to make the specific science or sources for the 12-point system public.

More:Iowa's coronavirus shelter-in-place metrics remains a mystery

Reynolds says she had 'productive and positive' conversation with Dr. Fauci

April 6: Gov. Kim Reynolds says she has spoken on the phone with Dr. Anthony Fauci and that the doctor told her Iowa and Nebraska are "on the same page" as far as the federal guidance he's providing other states.

Last week, Reynolds said Fauci "maybe doesn't have all the information" about Iowa's efforts to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.

Fauci said Thursday on CNN that he didn't understand why all states hadn't ordered residents to shelter in place. Iowa is one of only a few states in the country without a shelter-in-place order, although Reynolds has closed schools and many businesses and forbidden gatherings of more than 10 people.

"If you look at what's going on in this country, I just don't understand why we're not doing that," Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, added on CNN. "We really should be."

On Monday, Fauci applauded the approach taken by Reynolds and Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts.

More:Gov. Kim Reynolds warns of 'difficult' week ahead for coronavirus deaths in Iowa

Gov. Kim Reynolds orders more businesses closed to fight virus' spread

April 6: Gov. Kim Reynolds has ordered more businesses closed through April 30 to fight the spread of the novel coronavirus, including malls, bowling alleys, zoos, campgrounds, playgrounds and libraries, among others.

The order, issued Monday, extends through April 30 and is in addition to the businesses she’s already ordered closed throughout the pandemic.

The new closures include:

Malls

Social and fraternal clubs

Bingo halls

Bowling alleys

Pool halls

Zoos

Arcades

Amusement parks

Libraries

Skating rinks and skate parks

Outdoor/indoor playgrounds and children's play centers

Race tracks

Tobacco and vaping stores

Toy, music, gaming, instrument and movie stores

Campgrounds

Anyone not following the guidelines, specifically those not limiting social gatherings to fewer than 10 people, will be cited with a simple misdemeanor, Reynolds said.

More:Gov. Kim Reynolds warns of 'difficult' week ahead for coronavirus deaths in Iowa

Tyson says it has suspended pork production in Columbus Junction

April 6: Tyson Foods Inc. said Monday it suspended production at its Columbus Junction pork processing plant after identifying “two dozen cases of COVID-19 involving team members.”

The Arkansas company said it was experiencing “varying levels of production impact," due to additional worker-safety precautions and worker absenteeism.

Tyson said it is diverting livestock slated for Columbus Junction in eastern Iowa to other pork plants in the region.

In addition to taking temperatures and deep cleaning, the company said it is "erecting dividers between workstations or increasing the space between workers on the production floor, which can involve slowing production lines."

The additional cleaning "sometimes requires suspending at least one day of production," CEO Noel White said in a statement.

Tyson, which has nine meat processing plants in Iowa employing 11,000 workers, said it suspended Columbus Junction production "out of an abundance of caution."

Tyson said it is "coordinating with federal agencies to emphasize the need for personal protective equipment to support our team members as we remain open."

The company said it's working to "secure an adequate supply of protective face coverings for production workers and have implemented interim protocols for temporary protective coverings."

► More:COVID-19 outbreak halts production at Tyson pork processing plant in eastern Iowa

Related:Iowa JBS workers tell advocates they're packed in too tight to stay safe from coronavirus​​​​​​​

Another 3 COVID-19 deaths reported

April 6: Another three people with COVID-19 have died, Gov. Kim Reynolds said Monday. Statewide, 25 people have died.

Reynolds said two of the people who died were from Tama County; both were elderly adults and at least 81 years old. The third death occurred in Linn County and involved an adult between the ages of 61 and 80.

Additionally, Reynolds said another 78 people tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the state total to 946 positive cases.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, there have been an additional 680 negative tests for a total of 10,653 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs.

According to IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 78 individuals who tested positive include:

Allamakee County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Benton County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Cedar County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Cerro Gordo County, 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Chickasaw County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Clinton County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Crawford County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Dubuque County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Franklin County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Henry County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Jackson County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Johnson County, 5 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Linn County, 5 adults (18-40 years), 6 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Louisa County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Marion County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Marshall County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Muscatine County, 5 adults (18-40 years), 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)

Page County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)

Polk County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)

Pottawattamie County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Scott County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 7 middle age adults (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80), 1 elderly adult (81+)

Tama County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80), 3 elderly adults (81+)

Wapello County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Warren County, 1 adult (18-40 years)

Washington County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80)

• Winnebago County, 1 middle age adult (41-60 years)

► More:Updated COVID-19 maps and charts track cases and data in Iowa and across the U.S.

Deadline to contest assessments extended

April 6: Iowa property owners who wish to contest their new property assessments now have until June 5 to file an appeal, according to the Iowa State Association of Assessors.

Previously, in non-pandemic times, owners had until the end of April to file an appeal with their local board of review, boards of Iowa residents who listens to property owners’ appeals and decides whether to alter the assessment.

Property assessments are in part the basis for what Iowa homeowners pay in property taxes.

Anyone who disagrees with their assessment can also request an informal review with their local assessor’s office. The deadline to request a review is April 27.

Iowans wishing to appeal their assessment can visit iowa-assessors.org to find their local assessor’s office.

DART again reduces bus services for metro

April 6: The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority will again reduce its bus services across the metro on Sunday as the novel coronavirus pandemic continues.

Some bus routes will run less frequently while five routes will be temporarily suspended.

In a news release, officials also said drives will skip stops if their buses already have enough people aboard, ensuring the passengers can maintain proper social distance. Smaller buses will follow normal buses on busier routes during peak times so riders left behind can still get where they’re going.

DART again emphasized that people should only take the bus if absolutely necessary: to go to the grocery store, a doctor’s appointment, the pharmacy or an essential job.

Across the state, public transportation ridership is down as Iowans practice social distancing, and DART said it’s “experiencing a shortage of frontline staff.” Some of its drivers are the most at-risk to contract COVID-19 or need to stay home to care for children, so the service reductions allow for DART to keep operating with its available staff.

The authority announced it would temporarily suspend service on the following routes: Local Route 8 (Fleur Drive), Local Route 10 (East University Avenue), Local Route 11 (Ingersoll Avenue/Valley Junction), Local Route 13 (Southeast Park Avenue) and Local Route 74 (Northwest Urbandale).

Twelve of the authority’s bus routes will switch to Sunday service beginning Sunday, meaning the buses will run less frequently than they do during weekdays.

Regular weekday service will continue on Local Route 50, which travels across Des Moines’ northside on Douglas and Euclid avenues.

► Related:As coronavirus spreads, rural Iowa's public transit services have seen ridership numbers — and revenue — plummet

'God keeps us together': Faith stays strong in the face of coronavirus

April 5: Even religious practices — often times the only facet of life that stays regular — have had to bend to the coronavirus’ will. But faith has stood firm.

No matter the religion, coronavirus has changed the physicality of faith — but not the spirituality.

At its core, faith is a conviction of things not seen. It is giving in to the mystery that maybe we can't know how or when, but there will be a resolution. It is not letting fear or worry crash over us like a wave, and instead believing with a clear heart that, as a community, we will prevail.

► More:'God keeps us together': Faith stays strong in the face of coronavirus

Iowa now has 868 cases and 22 deaths because of COVID-19

April 5: Eight more people with COVID-19 have died, the Iowa Department of Public Health reported Sunday. Officials said there also have been an additional 83 positive COVID-19 tests, bringing the statewide total to 868. There have been 22 deaths in Iowa related to COVID-19.

There have been an additional 519 negative tests for a total of 9,973 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs, according to the release.

According to the IDPH, more than 10% of all positive cases in Iowa are occurring among long-term care staff and residents. More than 40% of all deaths in Iowa are associated with outbreaks in long-term care facilities. The statistics underscore that COVID-19 poses the most risk for older adults above the age of 60 with chronic health conditions, resulting in more severe illness and death, according to the release.

► More:Coronavirus in Iowa: Updated COVID-19 maps and charts track cases and data in Iowa and across the U.S

Des Moines restaurants and bars selling cocktails to-go

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​April 5: Some Des Moines-area restaurants have tapped their creative sides to take advantage of the opportunity, selling their most popular pre-mixed drinks as part of their carryout menus.

Which comes at a perfect time when many people are seeking something — anything — to help relax.

“I have not met very many people who have not increased their alcohol and food intake right now,” said Kate Willer, the general manager at Bubba in downtown Des Moines.

“I think we’re all in the same boat there.”

► More:Happy Hour at home? Des Moines restaurants and bars selling to-go cocktails

► More:A look back at COVID-19 in Iowa, March 30-April 5​​​​​​​

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