Wednesday, April 1st, 2020
Wednesday, April 1st, 2020
Today's Weather Outlook - WOWT
Mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies are expected the vast majority of the day today as we get a chance to warm quite a bit. Highs will reach the mid 70s with a south wind that gusts to near 35 mph late in the afternoon. Breezy south winds will be noticeable most of the day though. South winds will likely be brisk during the day Thursday ahead of a cold front Thursday afternoon. That will bring with it some increasing clouds Thursday that lead to a 60% chance of spotty showers during the afternoon and evening hours but nothing is likely to be very heavy. Highs will get a chance to reach the lower 60s before that front moves in.Overnight into Friday morning will see enough cold air move in that some of the rain will change over to a wintry mix. The good news is that road temps are very warm and should help mitigate any widespread impacts in the morning hours. The morning wintry mix will give way to some afternoon clearing and warming, enough so that any winter precip will melt very quickly. Warmer highs in the 50s are likely Saturday after a cold morning in the 20s.
Covid -19 News
The Covid-19 pandemic has caused a number of cancellations and postponements. We here at KNOD are striving to keep you updated on all of them. In order to keep these announcements in one place, we ask that you go back to the top of our news page and click on the drop down box of Cancellations and Postponements. You will find all COVID-19 related items on that page. For ease of location, the announcements are listed in alphabetical order. Thank you for your understanding.
Reynold’s says she cannot lock down the state -
Iowa bars and restaurants have been given permission to provide carry-out or delivery of cocktails and other alcoholic beverages as their seating areas have been closed to the public, but that was set to expire at midnight. Shortly after five o’clock Tuesday afternoon, Governor Kim Reynolds issued a new proclamation, so that service may continue until April 7th. In March, Reynolds declared a public health emergency in the entire state of Iowa and ordered specific types of businesses to close, but she has resisted calls for issuing a statewide “stay at home” order. Reynold’s states that she cannot lock down the state, we have to make sure the supply chain is up and going. We have an essential workforce that has to be available. She says people also have to be responsible for themselves. Other parts of the order Reynolds issued late Tuesday give county hospitals more flexibility to borrow money and allow Iowa corporations to hold annual meetings electronically. In addition, the governor waived upcoming continuing education and certification deadlines for peace officers and jailers.
Playgrounds closed at all Pottawattamie Conservation Parks -
Pottawattamie Conservation and Pottawattamie County Public Health are continuing to examine ways of protecting the health and safety during the COVID-19 health emergency while continuing to provide quality outdoor experiences for everyone. In support of these efforts we have closed all playground facilities to public use at their parks until further notice. Trails and camping facilities at Botna Bend Park, Arrowhead Park and Hitchcock Nature Center will remain open for public use for the foreseeable future with limited amenities. Be prepared for limited or no access to restrooms when visiting your county parks. Please follow CDC guidelines by maintaining at least 6 feet of distance between you and others, limit your groups to 10 or fewer individuals, use hand sanitizer and clean your hands often, pack our your trash and all pet waste, cover coughs and sneezes and avoid touching your face. Remember to stay home if you are exhibiting symptoms or have been in contact with others exhibiting symptoms.
IDPH Update for Wednesday 4/1/20 -
The Iowa Department of Public Health reports 2 deaths and 52 additional positive cases of Iowans with COVID-19. That makes for a total of 549 positive cases in Iowa. There have been nine deaths. According to IDPH, 2 additional deaths were reported; one elderly adult (81+) in Polk County, and one elderly adult (81+) in Washington County. There have been a total of 7,304 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 52 individuals include:
Grocery Program in Shelby County off to a great start -
The Shelby County COAD took 21 orders for groceries Monday evening. Great start - thank you to our volunteer operators. We can do better Shelby County! The phone lines will be open Wednesday evening, 6 pm to 8 pm, for Fareway orders and HyVee deliveries on Saturday. Let's double the number of requests we took Monday night! Wednesday night call 833-356-9189. Please be patient - if you get a busy signal, call back in a few minutes.
Exira Medical Clinic Re-opens on a Limited Basis - KJAN -
Some residents of Exira have expressed concerns about the status of their medical clinic and that it might be closed permanently. Audubon County Memorial Hospital CEO Suzanne Cooner told sister station KJAN News Tuesday afternoon and in a written statement, that the “Audubon County Memorial Hospital has received enough personal protective equipment over the last week to re-open our Exira Clinic on a limited basis. The clinic had been temporarily closed for the safety of the staff and to maximize the use of limited PPE." Cooner said “Our provider, Val Riesberg, and Christie Konkler and Julie Vais will staff the clinic starting this Friday, April 3rd from 8 am to 4 pm. After this Friday, the clinic will be open on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 am to 4 pm.” She stressed that “It is very important for the safety of our staff that visit are open by appointment only. This includes appointments for Lab draws and BP checks, which are usually walk ins. Patients will be screened on the phone and again in person upon entering the clinic. Everyone will wear a mask and the mask will be sent home with the patient. The Clinic will schedule the patients appropriately throughout the day so that no one is in the clinic at the same time as another family is. The Clinic will only see patients whose symptoms are not suspected as possible Covid -19. Suspected Covid-19 will be redirected to Audubon County Memorial Hospital for testing at a designated time to maximize the staff’s use of full protective equipment.” Suzanne Cooner said also, “The Exira Clinic will open up fully only after the Pandemic is considered contained in Iowa. We appreciate everyone’s patience at this difficult time but safety of our patients and staff are our primary concern.”
Number of COVID-19 cases in Pottawattamie County now at five -
Officials have announced a fifth case of COVID-19 in Pottawattamie County. The Iowa Department of Public Health and Pottawattamie County Public Health said a Council Bluffs woman between the ages of 41 and 60 has tested positive. Planning Director Matt Wyant said the woman had recently traveled to Mexico. Upon her return she self-quarantined based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance. The woman then began exhibiting symptoms and was tested on March 25. The woman is in self-isolation at home. It's the second positive case announced today, after a girl age 0 to 17 tested positive on Monday.
The 0 to 17 year old girl did not have underlying health conditions and is in self-isolation at home after testing positive at the University of Nebraska Medical Center on Monday. Pottawattamie County Public Health said it is conducting a contact tracing investigation for this case and is in communication with the Iowa Department of Public Health. The girl was at Westlake Hardware, 721 West Broadway in Council Bluffs, on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Planning Director Matt Wyant said the patient is an employee at the hardware store. Westlake Hardware had already installed sneeze guards at the check-outs to mitigate COVID-19 exposure. The health department said the business promptly notified employees of the positive case. Public Health asks shoppers who visited Westlake Hardware on March 28 or March 29 to self-monitor and report any symptoms or changes in health to the Pottawattamie County COVID-19 hotline, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 712-890-5368 or 712-890-5369.
As a continued precaution against Coronavirus or COVID-19, Shelby County State Bank is making temporary changes to their business operations in an effort to keep their customers, employees and community as safe as possible. Beginning Wednesday, April 1st, Shelby County State Bank will limit operations to four of their 7 locations in Shelby County. The Harlan Downtown office, Elk Horn, Panama and Shelby offices will continue to operate in "drive-thru" only mode. These locations will be open from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday and 8 to 11 on Saturday mornings. All business will be routed through the drive-thru. This change also means that their locations in Irwin, Portsmouth and the Harlan West Branch will be temporarily closed, including the night depositories. Contact Shelby County State Bank at 755-5112 for all questions and refer to SCSB's website - scsbnet.com and Facebook page for continual updates. Please know SCSB is doing their absolute best to keep everyone safe and to also be available to their customers.
DAILY UPDATE: March 31, 2020
For up to date community information in Shelby County, please visit the Facebook page of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Myrtue Medical, Harlan Newspapers and KNOD Radio. For Iowa state updates, please visit the Iowa Department of Public Health website -https://idph.iowa.gov/ , or https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/ For national updates, please visit the CDC website – https://www.cdc.gov/
As of 2:30 PM, March 31st, there are 3 reported cases of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) in Shelby County. Statewide, there are 497 positive cases with 62 counties affected. 61 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19. Seven deaths have been reported in Iowa. IA Dept of Public Health is reporting 6,888 negative tests for COVID-19 in Iowa.
NOTE: Age is a strong risk factor for severe illness. Starting at age 60, your risk of severe illness doubles or triples between decades of life. Underlying medical conditions also increase your risk of severe illness, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease, or cancer. All age groups are vulnerable to the 2019 novel coronavirus and EVERYONE needs to practice social distancing measures.
UPDATE: UPDATE FROM SHELBY COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT: Effective immediately, Shelby County is under an Extreme Fire Danger. NO PRESCRIBED BURNS ALLOWED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. This includes all outside burning.
URGENT: Please do not flush anything down a toilet other than toilet paper. Flushing any other items (paper towels, wash cloths, wipes of any kind, feminine hygiene products, etc.) WILL damage and possibly shut down our sewer systems. Cooking Grease is prohibited from being disposed into the sewer system. Please place cooking grease into an approved container or jar and dispose in the garbage.
UPDATE: From the City of Harlan - Playground equipment in City of Harlan Parks is closed to the public. Restrooms and Shelter Houses in the City of Harlan parks are closed. If you are using the parks, please practice safe social distancing.
UPDATE: Shelby County State Bank announced effective tomorrow, Wednesday, April 1st that they will limit their operations to four (4) of their seven locations in Shelby County. The Harlan Downtown, Elk Horn, Panama and Shelby offices will continue to operate in “drive thru” mode only. These locations will be open 8 am – 4 pm, Monday through Friday and 8-11 am Saturday. The Irwin, Portsmouth, and Harlan West branches will be temporarily closed including the night depositories. Call SCSB at 755-5112 for all questions.
UPDATE: Shelby County Public Health Department – it is strongly suggested that if you choose to pleasure travel, or travel for extended business, outside of the State of Iowa you should self-quarantine upon return for two weeks. This does not include commuter travel to the Omaha Metro Market.
UPDATE: The City of Shelby is starting a donation program for people who have self-isolated in their homes and need groceries and could use some help paying for them. Please call City Hall for more details - 712-544-2404 If you would like to donate to this program to help our neighbors or buy groceries, drop them off at the old Shelby City Hall, 419 East Street, we will leave door open during regular business hours. Monetary donations can be sent to City Hall at 417 East Street. Your donations are greatly appreciated! 100% of donated funds received go to the grocery’s assistance program.
UPDATE: The Shelby County Landfill is now open to the public again. The office will remain closed. Individuals dropping off items should use the mailbox on the wall to drop off payment.
UPDATE: As of Tuesday, March 31st at Noon the Harlan Community Library will be discontinuing their curbside service. The library is encouraging everyone to stay home and access their online resources. If you would like to stock up on books/movies/puzzles, call the library at 755-5934 or reserve online before Noon tomorrow.
UPDATE: The Shelby County COAD is offering Grocery Shopping services for Fareway customers and Grocery Delivery services for HyVee customers. The phone bank to place your orders for Fareway or schedule your deliveries for HyVee is open from 6 pm to 8 pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Call toll free 833-356-8189 during these times for more information and to order/schedule delivery.
VOLUNTEERS: To volunteer to help with current Community Efforts to service our higher risk community members, contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry and you will be referred to the Shelby County COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disaster).
REMINDER: If you are making surgical masks for Myrtue Medical, there is a limited supply of elastic available at the Shelby County Chamber. Some of the elastic available is 1/2” wide. If using this donated elastic, cut the 1/2” wide ribbon in half to create two 1/4” wide ribbons for use. Thank you to Variety Distributors and Rusty’s Shoe Repair (Roger Rust) for the elastic donated!
FACE MASKS FOR MYRTUE MARCH 2020
Instructions:
REMINDER: The Shelby County Courthouse is now closed to the public. Departments are answering phones. Please call 755-3831 and select the department you wish to speak to from the menu. Please call 755-3831 option 6 for an absentee ballot for the June primary to be sent to you. Additional details regarding the Court System may be announced later.
REMINDER: From the Shelby County Auditor:
Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate has issued a directive that the June 2nd Primary will not be cancelled or postponed. The Shelby County Auditor’s Office will begin mailing absentee ballots on April 23rd or possibly later depending on when they are printed and available. Mark Maxwell, Shelby County Auditor, is encouraging everyone to request an absentee ballot. You may request a ballot by calling 712-755-3831, ext. 6 and providing your name, address, telephone number, and the number of ballots needed for your address. If you call after hours, please leave a detailed voice mail message with this information.
West Central Community Action Food Pantry is open by appointment only. If you would like to donate food, gift cards from local businesses, or need to pick up food from the pantry, you must call first: 712-755-5602.
REMINDER: Pantry items are needed for the HCSD Feed the Children Program. Needed donated items: bread, mac & cheese, fresh vegetables, eggs, peanut butter, tuna, cereal, canned goods, etc. Donated items may be dropped off at FarmTable Delivery (1901 Hawkeye Avenue). Additional volunteer drivers are needed for the Feed the Children program. If you can assist, please email Ellen Walsh-Rosmann at ellen.walshrosmann@hcsdcyclones.com
REMINDER: Links for business assistance and unemployment claims are available on the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry website – exploreshelbycounty.com – under the Shelby County COVID-19 Daily Updates and Resources button.
REMINDER FROM MYRTUE MEDICAL CENTER: Patients coming to Myrtue Medical Center are discouraged from bringing more than one visitor with them unless necessary. This limitation should be one healthy adult, no children. This includes one healthy visitor with a patient for doctor appointments, testing, and hospitalization. For our OB patients and their families’ safety, Myrtue is limiting Birthing Center visitors to one healthy adult during the entire stay. Children may visit in the OB waiting room but not in the locked OB corridor. The visitor limitation will not apply to our Hospice patients.
REMINDER: The City of Harlan announced that effective Monday, March 23rd the City Hall Office is closed to the public. If you need to speak to the City of Harlan, please call (712) 755-5137.
Visit your local church social media pages and websites for updates on service broadcasts during this time. Many will record services/messages that will also be broadcast on FMCTC and HMU - check those websites for schedules.
From the Shelby County Public Health Nurse:
All Shelby County residents: Unless you must go out for essential supplies or services, please stay home. This recommendation is even more critical for those over 60 with underlying health conditions as seniors are more likely to have severe symptoms associated with COVID-19 infections. Social distancing makes a difference when we all do our part by staying home and reducing potential exposures. Anyone who is sick, please stay home. (This is always good advice, but particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic). If you are mildly ill, please rest and recover at home. If you need to see a health care provider, call ahead. Everything we do to reduce exposure individually is a victory for our community.
If you are mildly ill with respiratory illness or fever (temperature of 100.4 or higher), stay home and isolate from others until you have gone 72 hours without these symptoms without the use of over the counter medications and 7 days have passed since the symptoms first appeared. If you are seriously ill with respiratory illness or fever (temperature of 100.4 or higher), call ahead to (712) 755-5130 and speak directly to a nurse at Myrtue Medical to screen your needs. If you decide to go to the Emergency Room, call ahead to let them know you are coming.
Please Practice Social Distancing at All Times – when considering going out for shopping, please do not make this a family outing. Have one individual from the household do your shopping.
Monitor local information at the Shelby County Chamber website and the Myrtue Medical Center website.
Purchase weekly groceries and supplies—purchasing large amounts of needed items limits access to others.
Use credible sources for information to reduce gossip and fear. Credible sources include the Iowa Department of Public Health or the Center for Disease Control webpages. At the local level, please follow Myrtue Medical Center’s webpage and social media and the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. Weekly newspaper articles also provide information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stay calm and be thoughtful. We are all in this together and want to make sure we are all able to have the resources and support we need to stay healthy, have essential needs met, and receive medical care as needed.
HMU Office and operations update. (3-30-20) -
HMU continues to monitor and comply with federal and state recommendations regarding the COVID-19 virus. We understand and acknowledge this is a unique time in our service history. We are maintaining operations to provide critical service but have an eye toward the health and safety of our customers, employees, family, friends and community. To ensure this commitment, we are having the HMU office and building thoroughly cleaned on Tuesday and Wednesday this week. The front office is currently closed to walk in traffic and will remain so until further notice. Our main phone number is answered 24 hours a day for emergency service. Electric, gas and water crews are responding to emergency outages.
On site telecom service is limited at this time. Some, but limited, technical support is available via phone. New service installations are on hold at this time. We will comply with Iowa Utility Board suggestions and recommendations regarding service to customers. The HMU Board voted last Thursday to, temporarily, suspend electric, gas, water and telecom service shut offs for non-payment. We will also temporarily waive penalties and fees associated with disconnections or late fees. This procedure will be reviewed at the April 23rd Board meeting. We certainly regret the necessity and inconvenience of these actions. We will maintain critical service to the best of our ability during this difficult time.
General News -
MONOGRAM LOVES KIDS FOUNDATION NOW ACCEPTING GRANT APPLICATIONS -
The Monogram Loves Kids Foundation, the charitable arm of Monogram Meat Snacks in Chandler, MN, will award $50,000 in 2020 to charitable organizations that sponsor programs benefiting children and their families. Registered 501(c)3 public organizations interested in applying for these grants, which will range from $500 to $10,000, should visit monogramfoods.com/values/mlkf to access the application form. All submissions must be mailed in to the address listed on the application by Friday, May 29th 2020 at 5PM CST. All applicants must be located within 100 miles of Monogram Prepared Meats, 1231 870th St. Harlan, IA 51537. A committee of team members at the Monogram Prepared Meats plant will review the grant applications from Harlan area organizations. The Monogram Loves Kids Foundation was founded in 2010 as Monogram Foods’ charitable fund to raise money for children’s charities in areas of the country where Monogram team members live and work. Between 2010 and 2019, Monogram has donated over $3 million to charities focused on children and their families.
2 lives claimed in helicopter crash in Audubon County Tuesday afternoon -
A helicopter crashed shortly before 4:30 pm Tuesday afternoon in Audubon County, about a mile west of the Guthrie County line. Crews from the Audubon and Exira Fire and Rescue Departments discovered the helicopter and field on fire due to a power line that was taken down during the crash. Officials said two people, both from Minnesota, were killed in the crash. Names will not be released until family is notified. The investigation is being handled by the FAA, assisted by the Iowa State Patrol Technical Investigation and The Audubon County Sheriff’s Office.
photo courtesy of KCCI
April 1st is Census Day -
Census Day — the date used to reference where a person lives for the once-a-decade count — arrived today with a nation almost paralyzed by the spread of the novel coronavirus. But census officials vowed the job would be completed by its year-end deadline. The virus's spread has forced the U.S. Census Bureau to suspend field operations for a month, from mid-March to mid-April, when the hiring process would be ramping up for up to 500,000 temporary census takers. The bureau also has delayed the start of counts for the homeless and people living in group quarters like college dorms and nursing homes, and has pushed back the deadline for wrapping up the head count from the end of July to mid-August. The Census Bureau is required by federal statute to send the president the counts that will be used to carve up congressional districts — a process known as apportionment — and draw state legislative districts by Dec. 31. Some groups are suggesting that the deadline be pushed back, though it's currently mandated by federal law. The head count started in late January in rural, native villages in Alaska, but the rest of the country wasn't able to start answering the questionnaire until the second week of March when the Census Bureau's self-response website went live and people received notices in the mail that they could start answering the questions. But that was only a week before many governors and mayors started issuing stay-at-home orders to slow the virus's spread, greatly hindering in-person rallies, meetings and door-knocking by activists to raise awareness about the 2020 census. The U.S. Census Bureau is spending $500 million on outreach efforts, including advertising, and it's relying on more than 300,000 nonprofits, businesses, local governments and civic groups to encourage participation in their communities. Those efforts have been hamstrung by the nationwide shutdown. Most of the census takers won't be sent out until late May to knock on the doors of homes where people haven't yet answered the questions online, by telephone or by mailing back a paper questionnaire. Until then, the Census Bureau is pushing people to answer the questions so they won't have anyone knocking on their doors in late spring and summer. As of Monday, more than 36% of households had already answered the questions, and the Census Bureau reported this week that 40,300 temporary workers were on the payroll as of mid-March. The 2020 census will help determine how many congressional seats and Electoral College votes each state gets, as well as the distribution of some $1.5 trillion in federal spending.
This from the Shelby County Emergency Management - Effective immediately Shelby County is under an Extreme Fire Danger. No prescribed burns will be allowed until further notice. This includes ALL outside burning.
2 arrested following Tuesday morning Kwik Shop robbery -
Council Bluffs Police say a man and a teenage female were arrested early this morning, following the robbery of a convenience store. 18-year old Christopher Reed, of Omaha, was taken into custody in Omaha, by Omaha Police. He was being held there while awaiting extradition to Iowa. A 17-year old female from Council Bluffs was arrested for Robbery in the 1st Degree, and transported to the Juvenile Detention Center in Council Bluffs. Authorities say at that around 2:18-a.m. officers were sent to Kwik Shop at 3632 Ave G in Council Bluffs, for a robbery that had just occurred. The clerk advised a black male dressed in dark clothing, displayed a black handgun and demanded money. The male then left the store with an unknown amount of cash. When officers arrived in the area they learned the male suspect was now with a white female in all dark clothing. A witness called Police at approximately 2:33-a.m., and said two subjects matching the robbery suspects were just seen getting onto the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge linking Council Bluffs and Omaha across the Missouri River. CB-PD officers arrived a short time later and gave chase on foot on the bridge. The juvenile female was taken into custody on the Iowa side of the river. Both suspects were arrested after interviews with detectives and evidence collection.
Gas station robbery in Council Bluffs -
On Monday, March 30th, at 8:12 pm Council Bluffs police officers were dispatched to 1220 N. 25th Street, the D&S Express on a robbery. It was reported that a male came into the store displayed a handgun and took an undisclosed amount of cash, he then fled the area southbound towards Roberts Park. The male was described as white of unknown age, 5’8 to 5’10, skinny build, white baseball hat with sunglasses on top of the hat, black jacket, blue jeans, black handgun and had acne scars on his face. At the time of this report the suspect is unknown, no one was injured. This is an active ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Division. Anyone with any information that was in the area at the time of this incident is encouraged to contact this Division at 712-328-4728 or they may call Crime Stoppers at 712-328-7867.
Search warrant results in two arrests in Montgomery County -
At 2:13 Sunday afternoon, March 29th, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in Villisca. The property is owned by 46 year old Edward Boysen and 38 year old Krystal Boysen-Harbin. Both subjects were located and apprehended a short time later in Clarinda. As a result of the search warrant and arrest in Clarinda, a number of items were seized including methamphetamine, cash, weapons, and suspected stolen property. Edward Boysen was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with intent to deliver, a Class B Felony; Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, a Class D Felony; and a Drug Tax Stamp Violation, a Class D Felony. Krystal Boysen-Harbin was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver, a Class B Felony; Drug Tax Stamp Violation, a Class D Felony. Edward Boysen is currently being held in the Page County Jail on $5, 000 bond for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and once his case is complete, will be transported to the Montgomery County Jail for the other charges and held on $35,000 cash bond. Krystal Boysen-Harbin is currently being held in the Montgomery County Jail on $25,000 cash bond.
Crawford County Law Enforcement Report (3-30-20) -
The Crawford County Law Enforcement Center has released their latest activity report. On Tuesday, March 24th, at 8 pm, two juvenile males were stopped at a traffic stop in Kiron. They were found to be in possession of Marijuana and were referred to juvenile court.
On Monday, March 23rd, a theft in Arion was reported at 7:45 am by Dennis Ten Eyck. Two Stihl chain saws, models 290 and 170, were stolen, also a Husqvarna model 435 chain saw, a Snap-on battery pack and a Snap-on impact drill. The total value of the items is $2,000.
Urgent Notice from the City of Harlan -
Do NOT flush paper towels, wash cloths or baby wipes (of any kind, no matter what the packaging says) into the City Sewer Systems. These items cannot be processed and will clog the pumping systems, eventually SHUTTING DOWN our systems. If you must use these items, dispose of them into a waste basket and throw them out with the rest of your trash. PLEASE - THIS IS URGENT. The only flushable items are toilet paper and facial tissue.
Applications for healthcare educational grants from the Endowment for Education are now being accepted. The grants are made available through the Lucille Petersen Endowment Fund, which was established in 1988. The funds will be distributed to selected applicants seeking short or long-range educational assistance to pursue healthcare occupations. An April 30th deadline has been set for applications to be submitted for the summer 2020 semester. Application forms and more information are available by contacting Ruth Pitkin at Myrtue Medical Center, 1213 Garfield Ave, Harlan, IA 51537, call 755-4316 or email rpitkin@myrtuemedical.org. The grants can be for new, entry-level or advanced training or certifications.
Shelby County Relay for Life Luminaria bags are now available! Each bag represents a loved one lost to cancer, or brings support to those affected by it and honors survivors! Get your luminarias now – they are only $5 through May 21st and $10 from May 22nd through June 5th. There are caregiver bags available too! Luminarias are available from any Relay for Life Team Member, Julie Ziola at 813-245-4851 or Cindy Schechinger at 579-1212. They are also available online for $10 with decorating included at relayforlife.org/shelbycountyia. The Luminary lighting ceremony will be held during the Shelby County Relay for Life Event on June 5th at Merrill field in Harlan.
GriefShare Seminar and Support Group will meet Mondays now through March 23rd from 5:30 to 7 pm at the First Baptist Church in Harlan. For more information, call the church office at 755-2711.
Seeds of Hope, support group for people with mental illness diagnosis, will meet Mondays, 6:30 – 8 pm, Shelby County Community Outreach.
Blood Donations Needed -
Upcoming donation opportunities include:
Saturday, April 11th - 8 am to 2 pm - Shelby Community Building
9 am to 3 pm - Harrison County Home and Public Health
Friday, April 17th - 7:30 am to 1 pm - Conductix-Wampfler in Harlan
Monday, April 20th - 8 am to 2 pm - Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan
Monday, May 4th - 7:30 am to 1:30 pm - Harlan High School
Tuesday, May 12th - 11:30 am to 5:30 pm - Veteran's Memorial Building - Harlan
Thursday, May 14th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - Atlantic YMCA
Tuesday, May 19th - 8:30 am to 2:30 pm - Cass County Memorial Hospital in Atlantic
Wednesday, May 27th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - St. Boniface Parish Center in Westphalia
Wednesday, June 3rd - 12 Noon to 5 pm - Manilla Memorial Hall
12 Noon to 6 pm - St. Patrick's Parish Ceenter in Audubon
Friday, July 24th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - Sacred Heart Church in Manning
Saturday, July 25th - 8 am to 1 pm - American Legion Building in Avoca
Saturday, August 1st - 7:30 am to 12:30 pm - Shelby Community Building
Wednesday, August 5th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - St. Patricks Parish Center in Audubon
Tuesday, December 29th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - St. Patrick's Parish Center in Audubon
AS a preventative action, the Carson Fire Department has postponed the Fish Fry Event that was scheduled for March 28th. It has been rescheduled for September 12th.
St. Albert Catholic Schools in Council Bluffs invites you to the Roaring 2020's Annual Benefit Auction, Saturday, March 28th, at St. Albert High School Gymnasium. at f pm, the evening will start with cocktails, hors d'oeurves and a silent auction. A welcome, blessing and dinner at 7 pm, and a live auction at 7:30. Don't forget your raffle tickets for a chance at $10,000.
The Carson Fire and Rescue presents their 2nd annual Fish Fry, Saturday, March 28th, from 5 to 8 pm (or while supplies last) at the Carson Community Building. The cost is a free will donation. All proceeds will go to benefit the Carson Fire and Rescue Department.
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An Immunization Clinic for Children will be held on Wednesday April 1st, from 2 to 6 pm at Community Health. Immunizations are free for children that qualify for the VFC program. If you have insurance that pays for immunizations including Hawk-I, please call Myrtue Medical Clinic at 755-4516 to schedule an appointment there. Appointments are recommended to save time, but are not required. Walk-ins are welcome. Make appointments by calling 755-4422 or at shelbycountyclinics.com. Please ask for Cathy Buman if you have questions or need to make an appointment for a different day or time.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meet every month at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan. The meetings begin at 6:30 pm. The monthly meetings will be held on:
Thursday, April 2nd
Thursday, May 14th
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Upcoming events -
Defiance Parish Picnic - June 13th - dinner only - June 14th
Panama Parish Picnic - June 19-20
Westphalia Parish Picnic - July 3-4
Earling Parish Picnic - July 10-11
Shelby County Fair - July 12-20
Portsmouth Parish Picnic - July 25-26
Today's Weather Outlook - WOWT
Mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies are expected the vast majority of the day today as we get a chance to warm quite a bit. Highs will reach the mid 70s with a south wind that gusts to near 35 mph late in the afternoon. Breezy south winds will be noticeable most of the day though. South winds will likely be brisk during the day Thursday ahead of a cold front Thursday afternoon. That will bring with it some increasing clouds Thursday that lead to a 60% chance of spotty showers during the afternoon and evening hours but nothing is likely to be very heavy. Highs will get a chance to reach the lower 60s before that front moves in.Overnight into Friday morning will see enough cold air move in that some of the rain will change over to a wintry mix. The good news is that road temps are very warm and should help mitigate any widespread impacts in the morning hours. The morning wintry mix will give way to some afternoon clearing and warming, enough so that any winter precip will melt very quickly. Warmer highs in the 50s are likely Saturday after a cold morning in the 20s.
Covid -19 News
The Covid-19 pandemic has caused a number of cancellations and postponements. We here at KNOD are striving to keep you updated on all of them. In order to keep these announcements in one place, we ask that you go back to the top of our news page and click on the drop down box of Cancellations and Postponements. You will find all COVID-19 related items on that page. For ease of location, the announcements are listed in alphabetical order. Thank you for your understanding.
Reynold’s says she cannot lock down the state -
Iowa bars and restaurants have been given permission to provide carry-out or delivery of cocktails and other alcoholic beverages as their seating areas have been closed to the public, but that was set to expire at midnight. Shortly after five o’clock Tuesday afternoon, Governor Kim Reynolds issued a new proclamation, so that service may continue until April 7th. In March, Reynolds declared a public health emergency in the entire state of Iowa and ordered specific types of businesses to close, but she has resisted calls for issuing a statewide “stay at home” order. Reynold’s states that she cannot lock down the state, we have to make sure the supply chain is up and going. We have an essential workforce that has to be available. She says people also have to be responsible for themselves. Other parts of the order Reynolds issued late Tuesday give county hospitals more flexibility to borrow money and allow Iowa corporations to hold annual meetings electronically. In addition, the governor waived upcoming continuing education and certification deadlines for peace officers and jailers.
Playgrounds closed at all Pottawattamie Conservation Parks -
Pottawattamie Conservation and Pottawattamie County Public Health are continuing to examine ways of protecting the health and safety during the COVID-19 health emergency while continuing to provide quality outdoor experiences for everyone. In support of these efforts we have closed all playground facilities to public use at their parks until further notice. Trails and camping facilities at Botna Bend Park, Arrowhead Park and Hitchcock Nature Center will remain open for public use for the foreseeable future with limited amenities. Be prepared for limited or no access to restrooms when visiting your county parks. Please follow CDC guidelines by maintaining at least 6 feet of distance between you and others, limit your groups to 10 or fewer individuals, use hand sanitizer and clean your hands often, pack our your trash and all pet waste, cover coughs and sneezes and avoid touching your face. Remember to stay home if you are exhibiting symptoms or have been in contact with others exhibiting symptoms.
IDPH Update for Wednesday 4/1/20 -
The Iowa Department of Public Health reports 2 deaths and 52 additional positive cases of Iowans with COVID-19. That makes for a total of 549 positive cases in Iowa. There have been nine deaths. According to IDPH, 2 additional deaths were reported; one elderly adult (81+) in Polk County, and one elderly adult (81+) in Washington County. There have been a total of 7,304 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 52 individuals include:
- Cerro Gordo County, 1 adult (18-40 years)
- Clayton County, 1 elderly adult (81+)
- Clinton County, 1 adult (18-40 years)
- Dallas County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Des Moines County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)
- Dubuque 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)
- Iowa County, 1 adult (18-40 years)
- Jasper County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years)
- Johnson County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Linn County, 2 adults (18-40 years), 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years)
- Madison County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Mitchell County, 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years)
- Muscatine County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- O’Brien County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Polk County, 1 middle-age adult (41-60 years), 3 older adults (61-80 years), 1 elderly (81+)
- Pottawattamie County, 1 child (0-17 years)
- Poweshiek County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Scott County, 2 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 1 adult (18-40 years)
- Story County, 2 older adults (61-80 years)
- Tama County, 1 middle age adult (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years)
- Van Buren County, 1 older adult (61-80 years)
- Warren County, 1 adult (18-40 years)
- Washington County, 1 adult (18-40 years), 5 middle-age adults (41-60 years), 2 older adults (61-80 years), 1 elderly adult (81+)
Grocery Program in Shelby County off to a great start -
The Shelby County COAD took 21 orders for groceries Monday evening. Great start - thank you to our volunteer operators. We can do better Shelby County! The phone lines will be open Wednesday evening, 6 pm to 8 pm, for Fareway orders and HyVee deliveries on Saturday. Let's double the number of requests we took Monday night! Wednesday night call 833-356-9189. Please be patient - if you get a busy signal, call back in a few minutes.
Exira Medical Clinic Re-opens on a Limited Basis - KJAN -
Some residents of Exira have expressed concerns about the status of their medical clinic and that it might be closed permanently. Audubon County Memorial Hospital CEO Suzanne Cooner told sister station KJAN News Tuesday afternoon and in a written statement, that the “Audubon County Memorial Hospital has received enough personal protective equipment over the last week to re-open our Exira Clinic on a limited basis. The clinic had been temporarily closed for the safety of the staff and to maximize the use of limited PPE." Cooner said “Our provider, Val Riesberg, and Christie Konkler and Julie Vais will staff the clinic starting this Friday, April 3rd from 8 am to 4 pm. After this Friday, the clinic will be open on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 am to 4 pm.” She stressed that “It is very important for the safety of our staff that visit are open by appointment only. This includes appointments for Lab draws and BP checks, which are usually walk ins. Patients will be screened on the phone and again in person upon entering the clinic. Everyone will wear a mask and the mask will be sent home with the patient. The Clinic will schedule the patients appropriately throughout the day so that no one is in the clinic at the same time as another family is. The Clinic will only see patients whose symptoms are not suspected as possible Covid -19. Suspected Covid-19 will be redirected to Audubon County Memorial Hospital for testing at a designated time to maximize the staff’s use of full protective equipment.” Suzanne Cooner said also, “The Exira Clinic will open up fully only after the Pandemic is considered contained in Iowa. We appreciate everyone’s patience at this difficult time but safety of our patients and staff are our primary concern.”
Number of COVID-19 cases in Pottawattamie County now at five -
Officials have announced a fifth case of COVID-19 in Pottawattamie County. The Iowa Department of Public Health and Pottawattamie County Public Health said a Council Bluffs woman between the ages of 41 and 60 has tested positive. Planning Director Matt Wyant said the woman had recently traveled to Mexico. Upon her return she self-quarantined based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance. The woman then began exhibiting symptoms and was tested on March 25. The woman is in self-isolation at home. It's the second positive case announced today, after a girl age 0 to 17 tested positive on Monday.
The 0 to 17 year old girl did not have underlying health conditions and is in self-isolation at home after testing positive at the University of Nebraska Medical Center on Monday. Pottawattamie County Public Health said it is conducting a contact tracing investigation for this case and is in communication with the Iowa Department of Public Health. The girl was at Westlake Hardware, 721 West Broadway in Council Bluffs, on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Planning Director Matt Wyant said the patient is an employee at the hardware store. Westlake Hardware had already installed sneeze guards at the check-outs to mitigate COVID-19 exposure. The health department said the business promptly notified employees of the positive case. Public Health asks shoppers who visited Westlake Hardware on March 28 or March 29 to self-monitor and report any symptoms or changes in health to the Pottawattamie County COVID-19 hotline, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 712-890-5368 or 712-890-5369.
As a continued precaution against Coronavirus or COVID-19, Shelby County State Bank is making temporary changes to their business operations in an effort to keep their customers, employees and community as safe as possible. Beginning Wednesday, April 1st, Shelby County State Bank will limit operations to four of their 7 locations in Shelby County. The Harlan Downtown office, Elk Horn, Panama and Shelby offices will continue to operate in "drive-thru" only mode. These locations will be open from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday and 8 to 11 on Saturday mornings. All business will be routed through the drive-thru. This change also means that their locations in Irwin, Portsmouth and the Harlan West Branch will be temporarily closed, including the night depositories. Contact Shelby County State Bank at 755-5112 for all questions and refer to SCSB's website - scsbnet.com and Facebook page for continual updates. Please know SCSB is doing their absolute best to keep everyone safe and to also be available to their customers.
DAILY UPDATE: March 31, 2020
For up to date community information in Shelby County, please visit the Facebook page of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Myrtue Medical, Harlan Newspapers and KNOD Radio. For Iowa state updates, please visit the Iowa Department of Public Health website -https://idph.iowa.gov/ , or https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/ For national updates, please visit the CDC website – https://www.cdc.gov/
As of 2:30 PM, March 31st, there are 3 reported cases of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) in Shelby County. Statewide, there are 497 positive cases with 62 counties affected. 61 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19. Seven deaths have been reported in Iowa. IA Dept of Public Health is reporting 6,888 negative tests for COVID-19 in Iowa.
NOTE: Age is a strong risk factor for severe illness. Starting at age 60, your risk of severe illness doubles or triples between decades of life. Underlying medical conditions also increase your risk of severe illness, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease, or cancer. All age groups are vulnerable to the 2019 novel coronavirus and EVERYONE needs to practice social distancing measures.
UPDATE: UPDATE FROM SHELBY COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT: Effective immediately, Shelby County is under an Extreme Fire Danger. NO PRESCRIBED BURNS ALLOWED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. This includes all outside burning.
URGENT: Please do not flush anything down a toilet other than toilet paper. Flushing any other items (paper towels, wash cloths, wipes of any kind, feminine hygiene products, etc.) WILL damage and possibly shut down our sewer systems. Cooking Grease is prohibited from being disposed into the sewer system. Please place cooking grease into an approved container or jar and dispose in the garbage.
UPDATE: From the City of Harlan - Playground equipment in City of Harlan Parks is closed to the public. Restrooms and Shelter Houses in the City of Harlan parks are closed. If you are using the parks, please practice safe social distancing.
UPDATE: Shelby County State Bank announced effective tomorrow, Wednesday, April 1st that they will limit their operations to four (4) of their seven locations in Shelby County. The Harlan Downtown, Elk Horn, Panama and Shelby offices will continue to operate in “drive thru” mode only. These locations will be open 8 am – 4 pm, Monday through Friday and 8-11 am Saturday. The Irwin, Portsmouth, and Harlan West branches will be temporarily closed including the night depositories. Call SCSB at 755-5112 for all questions.
UPDATE: Shelby County Public Health Department – it is strongly suggested that if you choose to pleasure travel, or travel for extended business, outside of the State of Iowa you should self-quarantine upon return for two weeks. This does not include commuter travel to the Omaha Metro Market.
UPDATE: The City of Shelby is starting a donation program for people who have self-isolated in their homes and need groceries and could use some help paying for them. Please call City Hall for more details - 712-544-2404 If you would like to donate to this program to help our neighbors or buy groceries, drop them off at the old Shelby City Hall, 419 East Street, we will leave door open during regular business hours. Monetary donations can be sent to City Hall at 417 East Street. Your donations are greatly appreciated! 100% of donated funds received go to the grocery’s assistance program.
UPDATE: The Shelby County Landfill is now open to the public again. The office will remain closed. Individuals dropping off items should use the mailbox on the wall to drop off payment.
UPDATE: As of Tuesday, March 31st at Noon the Harlan Community Library will be discontinuing their curbside service. The library is encouraging everyone to stay home and access their online resources. If you would like to stock up on books/movies/puzzles, call the library at 755-5934 or reserve online before Noon tomorrow.
UPDATE: The Shelby County COAD is offering Grocery Shopping services for Fareway customers and Grocery Delivery services for HyVee customers. The phone bank to place your orders for Fareway or schedule your deliveries for HyVee is open from 6 pm to 8 pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Call toll free 833-356-8189 during these times for more information and to order/schedule delivery.
VOLUNTEERS: To volunteer to help with current Community Efforts to service our higher risk community members, contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry and you will be referred to the Shelby County COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disaster).
REMINDER: If you are making surgical masks for Myrtue Medical, there is a limited supply of elastic available at the Shelby County Chamber. Some of the elastic available is 1/2” wide. If using this donated elastic, cut the 1/2” wide ribbon in half to create two 1/4” wide ribbons for use. Thank you to Variety Distributors and Rusty’s Shoe Repair (Roger Rust) for the elastic donated!
FACE MASKS FOR MYRTUE MARCH 2020
Instructions:
- Use cotton fabric. No need to prewash as the mask will be processed after arriving at MMC.
- Cut 2 pieces of fabric 8.5 inches long and 8 inches high.
- Sew right sides together along the 8.5-inch side. Turn fabric pair right side out and press.
- Sew a 5/8-inch seam from one sewn edge (on the 8.5-inch side) to create a “pocket” which will house a nose clip once the mask is processed at MMC.
- Finish the raw edges along each 8-inch side/ends making sure to leave the 5/8-inch pocket open. Zigzag the raw edge or serge if you have a serger.
- If you can find thin elastic (1/8, 1/4 or ½ inch), sew a 6-inch length to each end top and bottom taking care to secure it firmly. This creates a loop that will fit around the ears on each side so be sure the elastic is not twisted. Again, do not sew over the 5/8-inch opening where the nose clip will be inserted. You may also cut open a large elastic hair tie if elastic is not available.
- Place completed masks in a paper bag and drop off in the lobby outside the Shelby County Chamber office 1901 Hawkeye Ave. Harlan
REMINDER: The Shelby County Courthouse is now closed to the public. Departments are answering phones. Please call 755-3831 and select the department you wish to speak to from the menu. Please call 755-3831 option 6 for an absentee ballot for the June primary to be sent to you. Additional details regarding the Court System may be announced later.
REMINDER: From the Shelby County Auditor:
Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate has issued a directive that the June 2nd Primary will not be cancelled or postponed. The Shelby County Auditor’s Office will begin mailing absentee ballots on April 23rd or possibly later depending on when they are printed and available. Mark Maxwell, Shelby County Auditor, is encouraging everyone to request an absentee ballot. You may request a ballot by calling 712-755-3831, ext. 6 and providing your name, address, telephone number, and the number of ballots needed for your address. If you call after hours, please leave a detailed voice mail message with this information.
West Central Community Action Food Pantry is open by appointment only. If you would like to donate food, gift cards from local businesses, or need to pick up food from the pantry, you must call first: 712-755-5602.
REMINDER: Pantry items are needed for the HCSD Feed the Children Program. Needed donated items: bread, mac & cheese, fresh vegetables, eggs, peanut butter, tuna, cereal, canned goods, etc. Donated items may be dropped off at FarmTable Delivery (1901 Hawkeye Avenue). Additional volunteer drivers are needed for the Feed the Children program. If you can assist, please email Ellen Walsh-Rosmann at ellen.walshrosmann@hcsdcyclones.com
REMINDER: Links for business assistance and unemployment claims are available on the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry website – exploreshelbycounty.com – under the Shelby County COVID-19 Daily Updates and Resources button.
REMINDER FROM MYRTUE MEDICAL CENTER: Patients coming to Myrtue Medical Center are discouraged from bringing more than one visitor with them unless necessary. This limitation should be one healthy adult, no children. This includes one healthy visitor with a patient for doctor appointments, testing, and hospitalization. For our OB patients and their families’ safety, Myrtue is limiting Birthing Center visitors to one healthy adult during the entire stay. Children may visit in the OB waiting room but not in the locked OB corridor. The visitor limitation will not apply to our Hospice patients.
REMINDER: The City of Harlan announced that effective Monday, March 23rd the City Hall Office is closed to the public. If you need to speak to the City of Harlan, please call (712) 755-5137.
Visit your local church social media pages and websites for updates on service broadcasts during this time. Many will record services/messages that will also be broadcast on FMCTC and HMU - check those websites for schedules.
From the Shelby County Public Health Nurse:
All Shelby County residents: Unless you must go out for essential supplies or services, please stay home. This recommendation is even more critical for those over 60 with underlying health conditions as seniors are more likely to have severe symptoms associated with COVID-19 infections. Social distancing makes a difference when we all do our part by staying home and reducing potential exposures. Anyone who is sick, please stay home. (This is always good advice, but particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic). If you are mildly ill, please rest and recover at home. If you need to see a health care provider, call ahead. Everything we do to reduce exposure individually is a victory for our community.
If you are mildly ill with respiratory illness or fever (temperature of 100.4 or higher), stay home and isolate from others until you have gone 72 hours without these symptoms without the use of over the counter medications and 7 days have passed since the symptoms first appeared. If you are seriously ill with respiratory illness or fever (temperature of 100.4 or higher), call ahead to (712) 755-5130 and speak directly to a nurse at Myrtue Medical to screen your needs. If you decide to go to the Emergency Room, call ahead to let them know you are coming.
Please Practice Social Distancing at All Times – when considering going out for shopping, please do not make this a family outing. Have one individual from the household do your shopping.
Monitor local information at the Shelby County Chamber website and the Myrtue Medical Center website.
Purchase weekly groceries and supplies—purchasing large amounts of needed items limits access to others.
Use credible sources for information to reduce gossip and fear. Credible sources include the Iowa Department of Public Health or the Center for Disease Control webpages. At the local level, please follow Myrtue Medical Center’s webpage and social media and the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. Weekly newspaper articles also provide information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stay calm and be thoughtful. We are all in this together and want to make sure we are all able to have the resources and support we need to stay healthy, have essential needs met, and receive medical care as needed.
HMU Office and operations update. (3-30-20) -
HMU continues to monitor and comply with federal and state recommendations regarding the COVID-19 virus. We understand and acknowledge this is a unique time in our service history. We are maintaining operations to provide critical service but have an eye toward the health and safety of our customers, employees, family, friends and community. To ensure this commitment, we are having the HMU office and building thoroughly cleaned on Tuesday and Wednesday this week. The front office is currently closed to walk in traffic and will remain so until further notice. Our main phone number is answered 24 hours a day for emergency service. Electric, gas and water crews are responding to emergency outages.
On site telecom service is limited at this time. Some, but limited, technical support is available via phone. New service installations are on hold at this time. We will comply with Iowa Utility Board suggestions and recommendations regarding service to customers. The HMU Board voted last Thursday to, temporarily, suspend electric, gas, water and telecom service shut offs for non-payment. We will also temporarily waive penalties and fees associated with disconnections or late fees. This procedure will be reviewed at the April 23rd Board meeting. We certainly regret the necessity and inconvenience of these actions. We will maintain critical service to the best of our ability during this difficult time.
General News -
MONOGRAM LOVES KIDS FOUNDATION NOW ACCEPTING GRANT APPLICATIONS -
The Monogram Loves Kids Foundation, the charitable arm of Monogram Meat Snacks in Chandler, MN, will award $50,000 in 2020 to charitable organizations that sponsor programs benefiting children and their families. Registered 501(c)3 public organizations interested in applying for these grants, which will range from $500 to $10,000, should visit monogramfoods.com/values/mlkf to access the application form. All submissions must be mailed in to the address listed on the application by Friday, May 29th 2020 at 5PM CST. All applicants must be located within 100 miles of Monogram Prepared Meats, 1231 870th St. Harlan, IA 51537. A committee of team members at the Monogram Prepared Meats plant will review the grant applications from Harlan area organizations. The Monogram Loves Kids Foundation was founded in 2010 as Monogram Foods’ charitable fund to raise money for children’s charities in areas of the country where Monogram team members live and work. Between 2010 and 2019, Monogram has donated over $3 million to charities focused on children and their families.
2 lives claimed in helicopter crash in Audubon County Tuesday afternoon -
A helicopter crashed shortly before 4:30 pm Tuesday afternoon in Audubon County, about a mile west of the Guthrie County line. Crews from the Audubon and Exira Fire and Rescue Departments discovered the helicopter and field on fire due to a power line that was taken down during the crash. Officials said two people, both from Minnesota, were killed in the crash. Names will not be released until family is notified. The investigation is being handled by the FAA, assisted by the Iowa State Patrol Technical Investigation and The Audubon County Sheriff’s Office.
photo courtesy of KCCI
April 1st is Census Day -
Census Day — the date used to reference where a person lives for the once-a-decade count — arrived today with a nation almost paralyzed by the spread of the novel coronavirus. But census officials vowed the job would be completed by its year-end deadline. The virus's spread has forced the U.S. Census Bureau to suspend field operations for a month, from mid-March to mid-April, when the hiring process would be ramping up for up to 500,000 temporary census takers. The bureau also has delayed the start of counts for the homeless and people living in group quarters like college dorms and nursing homes, and has pushed back the deadline for wrapping up the head count from the end of July to mid-August. The Census Bureau is required by federal statute to send the president the counts that will be used to carve up congressional districts — a process known as apportionment — and draw state legislative districts by Dec. 31. Some groups are suggesting that the deadline be pushed back, though it's currently mandated by federal law. The head count started in late January in rural, native villages in Alaska, but the rest of the country wasn't able to start answering the questionnaire until the second week of March when the Census Bureau's self-response website went live and people received notices in the mail that they could start answering the questions. But that was only a week before many governors and mayors started issuing stay-at-home orders to slow the virus's spread, greatly hindering in-person rallies, meetings and door-knocking by activists to raise awareness about the 2020 census. The U.S. Census Bureau is spending $500 million on outreach efforts, including advertising, and it's relying on more than 300,000 nonprofits, businesses, local governments and civic groups to encourage participation in their communities. Those efforts have been hamstrung by the nationwide shutdown. Most of the census takers won't be sent out until late May to knock on the doors of homes where people haven't yet answered the questions online, by telephone or by mailing back a paper questionnaire. Until then, the Census Bureau is pushing people to answer the questions so they won't have anyone knocking on their doors in late spring and summer. As of Monday, more than 36% of households had already answered the questions, and the Census Bureau reported this week that 40,300 temporary workers were on the payroll as of mid-March. The 2020 census will help determine how many congressional seats and Electoral College votes each state gets, as well as the distribution of some $1.5 trillion in federal spending.
This from the Shelby County Emergency Management - Effective immediately Shelby County is under an Extreme Fire Danger. No prescribed burns will be allowed until further notice. This includes ALL outside burning.
2 arrested following Tuesday morning Kwik Shop robbery -
Council Bluffs Police say a man and a teenage female were arrested early this morning, following the robbery of a convenience store. 18-year old Christopher Reed, of Omaha, was taken into custody in Omaha, by Omaha Police. He was being held there while awaiting extradition to Iowa. A 17-year old female from Council Bluffs was arrested for Robbery in the 1st Degree, and transported to the Juvenile Detention Center in Council Bluffs. Authorities say at that around 2:18-a.m. officers were sent to Kwik Shop at 3632 Ave G in Council Bluffs, for a robbery that had just occurred. The clerk advised a black male dressed in dark clothing, displayed a black handgun and demanded money. The male then left the store with an unknown amount of cash. When officers arrived in the area they learned the male suspect was now with a white female in all dark clothing. A witness called Police at approximately 2:33-a.m., and said two subjects matching the robbery suspects were just seen getting onto the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge linking Council Bluffs and Omaha across the Missouri River. CB-PD officers arrived a short time later and gave chase on foot on the bridge. The juvenile female was taken into custody on the Iowa side of the river. Both suspects were arrested after interviews with detectives and evidence collection.
Gas station robbery in Council Bluffs -
On Monday, March 30th, at 8:12 pm Council Bluffs police officers were dispatched to 1220 N. 25th Street, the D&S Express on a robbery. It was reported that a male came into the store displayed a handgun and took an undisclosed amount of cash, he then fled the area southbound towards Roberts Park. The male was described as white of unknown age, 5’8 to 5’10, skinny build, white baseball hat with sunglasses on top of the hat, black jacket, blue jeans, black handgun and had acne scars on his face. At the time of this report the suspect is unknown, no one was injured. This is an active ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Division. Anyone with any information that was in the area at the time of this incident is encouraged to contact this Division at 712-328-4728 or they may call Crime Stoppers at 712-328-7867.
Search warrant results in two arrests in Montgomery County -
At 2:13 Sunday afternoon, March 29th, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in Villisca. The property is owned by 46 year old Edward Boysen and 38 year old Krystal Boysen-Harbin. Both subjects were located and apprehended a short time later in Clarinda. As a result of the search warrant and arrest in Clarinda, a number of items were seized including methamphetamine, cash, weapons, and suspected stolen property. Edward Boysen was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with intent to deliver, a Class B Felony; Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, a Class D Felony; and a Drug Tax Stamp Violation, a Class D Felony. Krystal Boysen-Harbin was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver, a Class B Felony; Drug Tax Stamp Violation, a Class D Felony. Edward Boysen is currently being held in the Page County Jail on $5, 000 bond for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and once his case is complete, will be transported to the Montgomery County Jail for the other charges and held on $35,000 cash bond. Krystal Boysen-Harbin is currently being held in the Montgomery County Jail on $25,000 cash bond.
Crawford County Law Enforcement Report (3-30-20) -
The Crawford County Law Enforcement Center has released their latest activity report. On Tuesday, March 24th, at 8 pm, two juvenile males were stopped at a traffic stop in Kiron. They were found to be in possession of Marijuana and were referred to juvenile court.
On Monday, March 23rd, a theft in Arion was reported at 7:45 am by Dennis Ten Eyck. Two Stihl chain saws, models 290 and 170, were stolen, also a Husqvarna model 435 chain saw, a Snap-on battery pack and a Snap-on impact drill. The total value of the items is $2,000.
Urgent Notice from the City of Harlan -
Do NOT flush paper towels, wash cloths or baby wipes (of any kind, no matter what the packaging says) into the City Sewer Systems. These items cannot be processed and will clog the pumping systems, eventually SHUTTING DOWN our systems. If you must use these items, dispose of them into a waste basket and throw them out with the rest of your trash. PLEASE - THIS IS URGENT. The only flushable items are toilet paper and facial tissue.
Applications for healthcare educational grants from the Endowment for Education are now being accepted. The grants are made available through the Lucille Petersen Endowment Fund, which was established in 1988. The funds will be distributed to selected applicants seeking short or long-range educational assistance to pursue healthcare occupations. An April 30th deadline has been set for applications to be submitted for the summer 2020 semester. Application forms and more information are available by contacting Ruth Pitkin at Myrtue Medical Center, 1213 Garfield Ave, Harlan, IA 51537, call 755-4316 or email rpitkin@myrtuemedical.org. The grants can be for new, entry-level or advanced training or certifications.
Shelby County Relay for Life Luminaria bags are now available! Each bag represents a loved one lost to cancer, or brings support to those affected by it and honors survivors! Get your luminarias now – they are only $5 through May 21st and $10 from May 22nd through June 5th. There are caregiver bags available too! Luminarias are available from any Relay for Life Team Member, Julie Ziola at 813-245-4851 or Cindy Schechinger at 579-1212. They are also available online for $10 with decorating included at relayforlife.org/shelbycountyia. The Luminary lighting ceremony will be held during the Shelby County Relay for Life Event on June 5th at Merrill field in Harlan.
GriefShare Seminar and Support Group will meet Mondays now through March 23rd from 5:30 to 7 pm at the First Baptist Church in Harlan. For more information, call the church office at 755-2711.
Seeds of Hope, support group for people with mental illness diagnosis, will meet Mondays, 6:30 – 8 pm, Shelby County Community Outreach.
Blood Donations Needed -
Upcoming donation opportunities include:
Saturday, April 11th - 8 am to 2 pm - Shelby Community Building
9 am to 3 pm - Harrison County Home and Public Health
Friday, April 17th - 7:30 am to 1 pm - Conductix-Wampfler in Harlan
Monday, April 20th - 8 am to 2 pm - Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan
Monday, May 4th - 7:30 am to 1:30 pm - Harlan High School
Tuesday, May 12th - 11:30 am to 5:30 pm - Veteran's Memorial Building - Harlan
Thursday, May 14th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - Atlantic YMCA
Tuesday, May 19th - 8:30 am to 2:30 pm - Cass County Memorial Hospital in Atlantic
Wednesday, May 27th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - St. Boniface Parish Center in Westphalia
Wednesday, June 3rd - 12 Noon to 5 pm - Manilla Memorial Hall
12 Noon to 6 pm - St. Patrick's Parish Ceenter in Audubon
Friday, July 24th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - Sacred Heart Church in Manning
Saturday, July 25th - 8 am to 1 pm - American Legion Building in Avoca
Saturday, August 1st - 7:30 am to 12:30 pm - Shelby Community Building
Wednesday, August 5th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - St. Patricks Parish Center in Audubon
Tuesday, December 29th - 12 Noon to 6 pm - St. Patrick's Parish Center in Audubon
AS a preventative action, the Carson Fire Department has postponed the Fish Fry Event that was scheduled for March 28th. It has been rescheduled for September 12th.
St. Albert Catholic Schools in Council Bluffs invites you to the Roaring 2020's Annual Benefit Auction, Saturday, March 28th, at St. Albert High School Gymnasium. at f pm, the evening will start with cocktails, hors d'oeurves and a silent auction. A welcome, blessing and dinner at 7 pm, and a live auction at 7:30. Don't forget your raffle tickets for a chance at $10,000.
The Carson Fire and Rescue presents their 2nd annual Fish Fry, Saturday, March 28th, from 5 to 8 pm (or while supplies last) at the Carson Community Building. The cost is a free will donation. All proceeds will go to benefit the Carson Fire and Rescue Department.
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An Immunization Clinic for Children will be held on Wednesday April 1st, from 2 to 6 pm at Community Health. Immunizations are free for children that qualify for the VFC program. If you have insurance that pays for immunizations including Hawk-I, please call Myrtue Medical Clinic at 755-4516 to schedule an appointment there. Appointments are recommended to save time, but are not required. Walk-ins are welcome. Make appointments by calling 755-4422 or at shelbycountyclinics.com. Please ask for Cathy Buman if you have questions or need to make an appointment for a different day or time.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meet every month at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan. The meetings begin at 6:30 pm. The monthly meetings will be held on:
Thursday, April 2nd
Thursday, May 14th
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Upcoming events -
Defiance Parish Picnic - June 13th - dinner only - June 14th
Panama Parish Picnic - June 19-20
Westphalia Parish Picnic - July 3-4
Earling Parish Picnic - July 10-11
Shelby County Fair - July 12-20
Portsmouth Parish Picnic - July 25-26
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