Iowa News:
The Iowa Department of Public Health released the latest data on COVID-19 in the state today. IDPH reported 279 new positive cases and 10 deaths. That brings the statewide total to 14,328 positive cases and 346 deaths. There are currently 387 Iowans hospitalized, 128 are in ICU, and 83 patients are on ventilators.
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Two different papers, two weeks in a row, from the University of Iowa, warned Governor Reynolds against greatly relaxing mitigation efforts against COVID-19. Those papers were April 29 and May 4. Since then, the Des Moines Register has been trying to get copies to see what the recommendations were. They break it out, but basically, researchers were, and are, concerned that a swift reopening of a majority of businesses can cause a reversal in efforts to blunt the virus in Iowa. You can see their full story here.
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Even with COVID-19, democracy goes on. The Iowa Primary Election is June 2, so KCCI is having a virtual debate amongst the Democratic candidates who want to face off with U.S. Senator Joni Ernst in the fall. See the details here.
Local News:
Des Moines Police are officially investigating the racist, sexist, and pornographic messages sent during a city meeting this week. The virtual meeting of the Des Moines City Council and Des Moines Civil and Human Rights Commission was interrupted by the hateful attack. The city is looking at how to better secure the meetings and will reschedule while the police investigate.
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Due to losses created by COVID-19, Goodwill Industries is closing four stores in Central Iowa. Grinnell, Oskaloosa, Waukee, and South Des Moines are permanently shuttered because they are not as financially viable. All other Central Iowa stores are reopened under new state rules except Newton and Boone – those stores should restart soon.
Good News:
Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance Company of Iowa has partnered with the Food Bank of Iowa to raise funds for its COVID-19 Relief Challenge. FMH is matching contributions for every dollar donated up to $100,000. To learn more about FMH’s fundraiser and to donate, click here.
