Dickinson County News | Spirit Lake, Iowa

Clary sues Okoboji Schools over OMS records request

The Okoboji School Board began Monday's meeting with a closed session to discuss current or possible litigation. The session's limited minutes said the board took no action and further specified there was no action regarding issues with a general contractor agreement. County court records also show a lawsuit filed against the district in September was most recently scheduled for a July 28 non-jury trial. Okoboji Superintendent Todd Abrahamson said he was unable to comment on the closed session.
Local businessman Tom Clary filed a lawsuit against the district and Abrahamson several months after a request for public records regarding the sale process of the former Okoboji Middle School building in Arnolds Park.

The Dickinson County News office closed to the public as of 9 a.m. Thursday, March 19 in an effort to minimize the potential spread of the COVID-19 virus. Staff will still be working inside the building, and the public may continue to call or email the office.

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*Gaps in data from some districts have been extrapolated.

*Okoboji School District totals are shared with the public in ranges of five and have been plotted using their average.

Local COVID-19 updates

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DCNC plans return to normal hours

The Dickinson County Nature Center announced it will return to its normal operating hours as of March 2. The nature center will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Visitor restrictions in place at Spencer Hospital

Spencer Hospital has tightened visitor restrictions effective immediately following a surge of patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Effective immediately, no visitors are permitted for adult patients on the inpatient units of medical/surgical (west second and third floors), intensive care and behavioral health. No visitors are permitted in the emergency room. Pediatric patients (under age 18 years) are permitted two parents to visit. At this time, there were no changes to the current birth center visitation policy, which permits one visitor a day. Also, surgical patients may be accompanied by one family member or friend. Anyone coming to the hospital as a visitor or patient must wear a mask at all times.

Sheriff's office suspends fingerprinting services

The Dickinson County Sheriff's Office temporarily suspended fingerprinting services for the public as of Nov. 17. Officials said an announcement will be made when services are ready to resume.

The public is also being asked to apply for gun permits by mail or by using the courthouse's dropbox near the west entrance. Questions regarding permits can be directed to the sheriff's office by calling 712-336-2793 or by emailing kkolpin@co.dickinsoncountyiowa.gov

Spirit Lake Public Library closes amid rising COVID-19 cases

The Spirit Lake Public Library announced in a Nov. 1 social media post it would be closing its doors due to increasing COVID-19 statistics. The library said it will continue to offer curbside pickup for patrons through the library catalog, phone and email.

admin@spiritlake.lib.ia.us

712-336-2667

Arnolds Park library temporarily closes after confirmed case

The Arnolds Park Public Library announced in a social media post Oct. 28 its doors would be closed until Nov. 2 after an employee tested positive for COVID-19. The post said other library staff members will be tested in the meantime as a precaution. The library said story time craft bags would still to be made available Oct. 29. The bags may be picked up from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the back hallway of the building.

TOP 5 ADVANTAGES OF VIRTUAL DOCTOR VISITS

The spread of COVID-19 has caused healthcare providers to care for patients in different ways. Family medicine providers at Lakes Regional Healthcare (LRH) have cared for patients in their cars, assessed them over the phone, and held video appointments through a secure program called Doxy. Providers have found the virtual video visits have many advantages for patients, including:

1. Limited Spread of Infection

People visit the doctor for many reasons. Although there are many appointments for check-ups and what's known as "well visits," most people visit the doctor because they have an illness or injury. LRH strives to limit potential exposure during the COVID pandemic by keeping patients outside the building until they can be brought directly into an exam room. When there isn't a pandemic, there may be unavoidable times when patients come into contact with others.

"When people sit in the waiting room, sick patients expose others to viruses and bacteria and may inadvertently get them sick," LRH family medicine physician Andrew Mueting said. "During a virtual visit, you can meet with the provider without being exposed to sick patients that may spread their infection to you."

2. Greater Access

Virtual visits allow you to see your provider regardless of your location. Whether you're at home, at work, or even out of town, as long as you have an internet connection and smartphone, computer or tablet, you can virtually visit your provider and receive the care you need.

3. More Efficient Use of Time

Driving to and from a doctor's appointment and sitting in the waiting room and then even waiting in the exam room is no fun. It's easy for a 30-minute in-person appointment to take at least 60 minutes of your time. Virtual visits don't require you to travel or wait, resulting in the vast majority of your time being spent with your provider, while taking up less of your personal time overall. In fact, studies have found that 95% of time in a virtual visit is spent directly with the provider. This compares to less than 20% of the time spent directly with the provider for an in-person visit.

4. Scheduling Flexibility

It's common for people to require time off from work to see their healthcare provider. With virtual visits, the amount of time you spend in total for the appointment is less and may be accomplished over a break and not require time off work.

5. Improved Satisfaction

A recent study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that 62% of virtual visit patients said the quality was just as good as in-person visits, and 21% said it was even better.

"Research has shown that virtual visit patients are often more relaxed and transparent in what they tell providers," Mueting said "This may be because they aren’t stressed from traveling and waiting, but whatever the cause, it helps us as providers to know everything that’s going on with the patient and to know what the best care would be for them."

"What started as something to do during COVID is something we anticipate doing a lot more even after the COVID pandemic ends," Mueting said.

Those interested in scheduling a virtual visit with Lakes Regional Healthcare family medicine providers are encouraged to call 712-336-3750.

SPENCER HOSPITAL RESUMES LIMITED ELECTIVE SURGERIES

Spencer Hospital Surgery Center will resume same day surgical procedures on a limited basis Monday, May 11.

"The hospital and its medical staff have developed a plan which takes measured steps to reopen elective procedures," hospital president Bill Bumgarner said. "We're anxious to meet the health needs of our patients, yet with a first priority to focus on patient and healthcare provider safety during the COVID-19 public health emergency."

Safety protocols will include, but are not limited to, the following:

• All patients considered for elective surgery will be carefully prescreened. In addition to a traditional physical and health history assessment, each patient will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms.

• Upon entering Spencer Hospital or any of the clinics for a scheduled procedure, patients will be asked to wear cloth masks and will be screened again for COVID-19 symptoms.

• All care team members will wear surgical masks and protective eye wear or face shields, as well as other necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed when caring for a patient.

• Current temporary visitor restrictions remain in place. For surgery procedures, one parent or guardian may accompany a patient under the age of 18. Patients 18 and older will be asked to have someone transport them to the hospital and be prepared to transport the patient home afterwards, yet not accompany them into the facility. All surgical patients are encouraged to have a contact person whom the care team can keep informed regarding the patient’s procedure and contact when the patient is ready to be released and transported home.

In addition to the patient safety measures, Spencer Hospital remains prepared to cease elective procedures if a surge of COVID-19 cases develops in the area, supply chain limitations impact critical supply inventory or hospital employees must be reassigned to higher priority care assignments.

"The Spencer medical community looks forward to increase service access in a responsible way," Bumgarner said. "Since the outset of the pandemic, the hospital has continued to provide essential healthcare services. As some elective procedures are resumed, an emphasis will continue to keep precautions in place to protect patients. This includes continuing to limit the number of people who enter our healthcare facilities and using additional protective measures as recommended by disease control experts."

He added: "Until an effective vaccine is developed, the community can support all healthcare workers by being mindful of social distancing and other preventative measures. By joining to together to limit the spread of the coronavirus, Spencer Hospital will be able to most effectively ensure optimal care to patients who may require care due to the virus."

USDA OFFERS FARM LOANS

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) reminds producers that FSA offers farm ownership and farm operating loans to agricultural producers who may not find success obtaining loans from their traditional financial institutions because of COVID-19. Farmers who cannot obtain commercial credit from a bank can apply for FSA direct or guaranteed loans.

"Farming and ranching is a capital-intensive business and FSA is committed to helping producers maintain their agricultural operations during this time of crisis," Amanda De Jong, FSA State Executive Director in Iowa, said. "FSA loans are designed to assist beginning and historically underserved farmers and ranchers, as well as those who have suffered financial setbacks from natural disasters or economic downturns. Producers may find that an FSA loan is the best option for them if they cannot qualify for a loan with their traditional financial institutions or other financial institutions because of COVID-19."

USDA offers a variety of loans to meet different production needs. Direct loans are made to applicants by FSA. Guaranteed loans are made by lending institutions who arrange for FSA to guarantee the loan. FSA can guarantee up to 95% of the loss of principal and interest on a loan. The FSA guarantee allows lenders to make agricultural credit available to producers who do not meet the lender's normal underwriting criteria.

The direct and guaranteed loan program offers two types of loans: farm ownership loans and farm operating loans.

Farm ownership loan funds may be used to purchase or enlarge a farm or ranch; purchase easements or rights of way needed in the farm’s operation; build or improve buildings such as a dwelling or barn; promote soil and water conservation and development; and pay closing costs.

Farm operating loan funds may be used to purchase livestock, poultry, farm equipment, fertilizer, and other materials necessary to operate a farm. Operating loan funds can also be used for family living expenses; refinancing debts under certain conditions; paying salaries for hired farm laborers; installing or improving water systems for home, livestock or irrigation use; and other similar improvements.

Repayment terms for direct operating loans are scheduled from one to seven years. Financing for direct farm ownership loans cannot exceed 40 years. Interest rates for direct loans are set periodically according to the government’s cost of borrowing. Guaranteed loan terms and interest rates are set by the lender.

For more information on FSA's farm loan programs, please contact your local FSA office or visit farmers.gov.

IWD ANNOUNCES UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFIT GUIDANCE

Iowans who have been placed on a temporary layoff related to COVID-19 but refuse to return to work when recalled by their employer will lose unemployment benefits, except for certain circumstances including:

• If you have tested positive for COVID-19 and are experiencing symptoms;

• If you have recovered but it caused medical complications rendering you unable to perform essential job duties;

• If a member of your household has been diagnosed with COVID-19;

• If you are providing care for a member of your household who was diagnosed with COVID-19;

• If you do not have childcare due to COVID-19 reasons; or

• If you do not have transportation to your place of work because of COVID-19.

Employees in any of these positions are strongly encouraged to work with their employer in the best way to handle the situation to return to work.

Refusing to return to work when recalled for any other reason, or in an attempt to continue to draw unemployment benefits will be considered a "voluntary quit," which would disqualify a claimant from receiving benefits, including the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation benefit of $600/weekly.

An employee who is recalled on a part-time basis may continue to be eligible for benefits depending on the amount of wages they earn. They should continue filing their weekly claims and report the gross wages they earned each week. Additionally, the self-employed should continue to report their weekly gross income as part of their continuing claims as they return to work.

"The additional unemployment benefits that are provided under the CARES Act are meant to be temporary in nature and bridge the gap between the outbreak and a return to normal," Iowa Workforce Development Director Beth Townsend said. "For Iowans whose employment may be permanently affected by the outbreak, we have many training opportunities under Future Ready Iowa to help them obtain training and begin a new career in a high-demand, high-paying job."

Businesses should report employees who refuse to return to work without good reason or who quit their jobs as soon as possible to IWD. While an employee may have temporarily earned more in benefits than they earn in wages, the CARES Act outlines serious consequences for fraud, including fines, confinement and ineligibility for future unemployment benefits until all fraudulent claims and fines have been repaid should an individual continue to claim benefits they are not otherwise eligible for because of a change in their employment situation.

For more information, please visit iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov.

HOSPITALS RECEIVE ILEMCF SUPPORT

The Iowa Lakes Electric Members Charitable Foundation awards a total of $12,000 to eight local hospitals within Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative’s service territory. The Foundation awarded each hospital $1,500 as a thank you to them and their staff for being there for our communities during these unsettling times.

"It is the foundation's wish that the hospitals use the grant funds to show their appreciation to their staff with gift cards to local businesses, the purchase for necessary PPE and supplies for ER, or for other needs as they see fit at this troubling time," Foundation Chairperson Janet Deim said. "We would like them to use $500 toward gift cards for their staff and the balance as they wish."

The charitable foundation is funded by the member-owners of Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative through the Operation Round Up program. Members participate by "rounding up" their monthly electric bills as a contribution. The foundation board meets quarterly to review applications and distribute the funds to non-profit organizations within the Cooperative’s eight-county service area.

Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit cooperative that serves over 12,000 member-owner accounts locally in Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Kossuth, Palo Alto, and Pocahontas counties. Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative is dedicated to leadership, growth and environmental responsibility by providing reliable, competitively priced energy while offering valuable service to benefit our member-owners and the communities we serve.

SINGLE POLLING PLACE PLANNED FOR JUNE PRIMARY

Ongoing COVID-19 concerns have prompted county election officials to encourage all voters to vote absentee by mail in the June 2 Primary Election this year, but in person polling will still be available starting May 4 at 909 19th Street — locally known as Paul's Body Shop.

Voters in all precincts who wish to vote in person may do so at the shop, which is just south of the Dickinson County Courthouse parking lot. The courthouse has also been closed to the public to minimize the potential spread of the virus. Dickinson County Elections Clerk Jordan Moyer stressed that all voters are strongly encouraged to vote by mail at this time.

Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate's office has decided to send absentee ballot request forms to all registered voters in Iowa. Moyer said if Dickinson County voters do not receive the request form by May 4, they may call the Dickinson County Auditor's Office or go to the auditor's website to print a form themselves. Absentee ballots should still be sent to the Dickinson County Auditor's Office. They must be postmarked by June and received by the auditor's office by June 8 to be considered valid. Absentee voting will also be available at the body shop from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. starting May 4. Hours on June 2 will be 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

"They'll be able to walk right in," Moyer said. "We'll have the garage doors open. I'll have my precinct workers there to help me and tell people to stay 6 feet away. We'll have markers on the ground as well for where they can stand, kind of like the grocery stores."

She said masks are being made for the precinct workers, and she expects several large bottles of hand sanitizer to be provided by the Iowa Secretary of State's Office.

WHAT IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a new virus, and many Dickinson County residents aren’t sure how to know if they have been infected, and if they have, what they should do about it. With so much information available on the internet, and not all of it accurate, Lakes Regional Healthcare reminds residents the statewide COVID-19 information line is available at 2-1-1 to answer these kinds of questions.

"We are learning more about COVID-19 each day," Dr. Andrew Mueting of Lakes Family Practice said. "We want to provide the most accurate information we have to help slow the spread of the virus in our county and protect our most vulnerable residents."

Here are some of the most frequent questions received:

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever over 100°, cough and shortness of breath. These symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to another infected individual.

What should I do if I have these symptoms?

It's important to know that 80% of people who get COVID-19 will have mild to moderate illness – similar to a bad cold. If this is how you feel, take these steps:

• Stay home. People who are mildly ill are able to recover at home.

• Treat your symptoms as you would any respiratory virus. Drink fluids, rest and treat your cough with over-the-counter medication.

• Call Lakes Regional Healthcare’s COVID-19 Hotline at 712-336-6696. A nurse will assess you over the phone and may have you come in to be seen in person and possibly have a test. Please understand that due to limited testing capacity in the country, the criteria for testing is very narrow.

• Separate yourself from others in your home. You can spread the illness, even when you’re mildly ill, so to protect others in your household, try to stay away from others as much as possible.

Who is at most risk for serious complications of COVID-19?

People who may be at higher risk for getting very sick include older adults and people who have underlying medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease.

If you have additional questions, call Lakes Regional Healthcare’s COVID-19 Hotline at 712-336-6696 or the national 2-1-1 COVID-19 information line. For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the Iowa Department of Health website and follow Lakes Regional Healthcare on Facebook at @LakesRegionalHealthcare.

DRIVERS PERMIT PROCEDURES ADJUSTED FOR COVID-19

Dickinson County Treasurer Kris Rowley says her office recently got notification of opportunities for area students who are preparing to drive and needing an instruction permit — or are ready to move up to an intermediate or full license.

"It'll be a big help during this time when COVID-19 disruptions have limited many of our drivers license services," she said.

The Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) is now offering driver's instruction permit testing for students in the comfort of their own home. When completed successfully, the student is not yet valid to drive. The student must complete the rest of the requirements of licensing, including completion of an Iowa-approved driver education course. The full list of requirements can be found online at iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/under-18.

According to the IDOT, a parent or guardian will be required to administer the test, and the student will need an electronic device connected to the internet. A phone or tablet will not work with testing.

To apply to take the test at home, the child must be at last 14 years old. The parent must apply to the IDOT by completing and submitting the "Application to Proctor Knowledge Exam" form. This is available on the IDOT’s website at iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/skip-the-trip. Upon approval, the parent and student will receive an email with instructions for taking and administering the test. After the test is completed, the student will receive an email with the test results and instructions. The student is not valid yet to drive with adult supervision until the student is issued a permit at a state or county driver’s license station.

The IDOT also announced that if a student is at least 16 years of age and has completed an Iowa-approved driver education course and the other requirements listed in full at iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/under-18, the IDOT can now issue an intermediate or full license remotely. A parent or guardian must complete the remote issuance parent's/guardian's consent form available online at iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/under-18. After the IDOT processes the completed form, a customer service representative will contact the parent/guardian during normal state service center business hours (Tuesday-Saturday) using the phone number provided to begin the process. Please allow 5-7 business days.

Currently the Dickinson County Driver’s License station is closed to the public due to COVID-19 but available to answer phone calls at 712-336-6277.

LAKES REGIONAL HEALTHCARE REMINDS PEOPLE: TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER

Lakes Regional Healthcare reminds area residents that although they are spending more time away from friends and family because of social distancing, state, county and local leaders recognize and appreciate the vital role they serve in stopping the spread of COVID-19.

"This unprecedented time is not easy," said Lakes Regional Healthcare COVID-19 Task Force physician Zach Borus, MD, MPH. "We want everyone to know that the actions they are taking — staying home except for essential trips to the store or physician and keeping a 6-foot distance from other individuals – are important and make a difference."

These actions, known as social distancing, help stop the spread of COVID-19.

While physical health is a primary focus now, mental health should also be a priority.

"Spending most of your time at home often means more television and social media, and that often means an overload of information about COVID-19," Borus said. "People may feel lonely, isolated, and anxious. This is common, but there are steps we can take to help these emotional results of COVID-19."

• Use the phone, computer or other devices to connect electronically with friends and family.

• Take time to unplug. It’s important to stay informed, but you can do that by checking in with trusted sources a few times a day.

• Eat healthy meals and find ways to be active. Eat regular, healthy meals and make time to move.

• Find ways to support others. Go to iglcoronarelief.org to see how you can help others.

• If you need to talk to someone, visit YourLifeIowa.org, where you can online chat. Or call Iowa Concern at 1-800-447-1985. You can also text YourLifeIowa at 1-855-895-8398 or call 1-855-581-8111. All services are confidential and free.

Lakes Regional Healthcare thanks all the local businesses, schools, essential service workers, health care providers, coalitions, churches and individuals for doing their part during this COVID-19 pandemic. As a reminder, all residents should:

• Stay home as much as possible, leaving only for essential errands like groceries or medication.

• Stay home completely when even mildly ill (the kind of illness that normally wouldn’t prevent you from your everyday activities)

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

Symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, fever (100.4 or greater) and shortness of breath. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should call Lakes Regional Healthcare’s COVID-19 Hotline at 712-336-6696. A nurse will assess you over the phone and provide next steps, which may mean coming into the clinic to be seen by a provider and possibly having a test.

OKOBOJI DISASTER RECOVERY FUND ISSUES GRANTS

As the impacts of COVID-19 continue to evolve across our community, local nonprofits are responding to meet the needs of people who are most affected. The Okoboji Foundation Disaster Recovery Fund is answering the call with urgent financial support for these organizations.

Thank you to those who have supported the Okoboji Foundation's Disaster Recovery Fund. Because of your generosity, the Okoboji Foundation is proud to announce a grant distribution of $14,822 to three nonprofit organizations in the Iowa Great Lakes Community. These organizations are actively helping our community during this pandemic.

"We have tried to focus these grants to help people in our community who are the most vulnerable and the most at risk due to the crisis," said Holly Skopec, interim president of the Okoboji Foundation. "This includes the elderly, the unemployed and the healthcare providers."

Recipients for the first round of grants include:

• Lakes Regional Healthcare Foundation — $8,822.30 To purchase six Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR). PAPR devices are a helmet with a purifying respirator that allows health professionals to be in the room and treat patients with suspected or known COVID-19 safely.

"The devices not only protect staff, protect patients, and preserve PPE, but also provide for better communication, greater provider vision fields, reduce fatigue on providers, and allows for patients to see staff’s caring faces better," Lakes Regional Healthcare COVID-19 Task Force Member Brandon Rohrig said.

• Voluntary Action Center — $4,000 To subsidize costs of meals for the Meals on Wheels program, preparing alternative meal options to meet emergency needs, as well as connecting volunteers with the home-bound through phone communications.

• Bedell Family YMCA — $2,000 To reopen the Community Table and serve two grab and go meals a week from the Character Center entrance for the next four weeks.

"We are excited to be able to support our community during this unsettling time," Andrew Fisher, CEO YMCA of the Okobojis said. "Thanks to this grant from the Okoboji Foundation’s Disaster Recovery Fund, we are able to provide meals to those in need and use our facility while being closed to the public. The support in this community is amazing."

Due to the novel nature of the coronavirus — and the unprecedented measures being taken by state and local governments regarding health and safety — nonprofits are experiencing a dramatic increase in volumes of need. Every grant distributed went to nonprofits seeking funding for both new and current needs, that have arisen as a direct response to COVID-19. The foundation's grant review committee has vetted the requests to ensure vulnerable populations are receiving services.

The Okoboji Foundation established the Disaster Recovery Fund to provide leadership and collaborative funding to support those who face the greatest need.

The coronavirus has stunned the world and is taking its toll on every individual and organization, including our community's nonprofits. To help respond to this unprecedented challenge, this effort will provide funding to local nonprofit organizations that work with people disproportionately affected by the consequences of COVID-19. Initially, these recipients include human service organizations that address food insecurity, especially for youth and older adults.

As a basis for this initiative, the Foundation contributed $10,000 dollars. The Okoboji Foundation is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions from private foundations, corporate partners, and individual donors.

The Okoboji Foundation will administer grants from the Disaster Recovery Fund with the assistance of community volunteers who will sit on the grant selection committee. Grants will be distributed to nonprofit organizations throughout the Iowa Great Lakes Region through the course of the crisis as long as funding is available. The goal is to move resources quickly and adapt to evolving needs.

ITC MIDWEST ADDS TO RELIEF FUNDING

As the nation rallies to support the fight against the pandemic, ITC Midwest is committing $175,000 in disaster relief funding to support agencies in need throughout its footprint in Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois and Wisconsin. The funding will be distributed in two rounds – the first for food charities and the second to support mental health and substance abuse agencies.

Rod Pritchard of ITC Midwest said the company provides funds to UDMO in Spirit Lake to support purchases and distribution to those Dickinson County residents in need.

"ITC Midwest has always taken an active role in the communities we serve by offering support beyond providing reliable energy," said ITC Midwest President Dusky Terry. "During these unprecedented times, there are tremendous needs across the country. Given the significant need being experienced from food charities, we felt it was important to step up to support organizations that can make an immediate impact in this region."

Food banks, pantries and soup kitchens are reporting a significant increase in demand for their services at a time when many are struggling to secure the supplies and resources needed to survive the national COVID-19 crisis.

Through its Charitable Giving Program, ITC awards grants to qualified nonprofit organizations that deliver charitable services in the communities it serves. Grants support programs and projects that reflect ITC’s focus on education, environmental stewardship, social services, health and wellness, and arts and culture. ITC is streamlining the process for its upcoming grant cycles to focus on two areas of giving announced Tuesday, April 14.

ITC Midwest operates nearly 6,700 circuit miles of electrical transmission lines in Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois and Missouri, and holds utility status in Wisconsin.

3D-PRINTED MEDICAL SHIELDS MADE AT IOWA LAKES

The Iowa Lakes Engineering Technology program is partnering with Rick Ayres, Lakes Marketing and Print, and Adam Perry, band director at Sioux Central Schools, and many other businesses, individuals, and schools to help combat the shortage of personal protective equipment for healthcare professionals. This equipment will be used by healthcare professionals who are on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic in the Iowa Lakes District and throughout northwest Iowa.

Together, they are creating 3-D printed personal protective equipment and ear savers for healthcare facilities.

While the project initially started by Perry and Ayres, the group has grown to include more than 23 3D printers running to meet the needs of northwest Iowa.

"I started this project as a way to help out during this crazy time and partnered with Rick Ayers to make laminated face shields. Rick posted our project on Facebook, and we reached over 43,000 people in under 24 hours who had an interest in obtaining the face shields," said Perry.

With the demand outweighing the supply, Iowa Lakes Community College joined the consortium's efforts. Chad Tischer, Iowa Lakes Engineering Technology Program Coordinator, Mike Gengler, Iowa Lakes Wind Energy Program Coordinator, and the Iowa Lakes Engineering Technology program are all contributing to the project.

"Mike Gengler and I are printing headbands and ear savers via our Dreamer 3D printers located on the Estherville campus. We can produce about six headbands per print, and each print takes about 22 hours. We are currently able to output about 18 headbands per day," explains Tischer.

Tischer also noted, "We are using a fourth 3D printer to create ear savers. The ear savers are worn by healthcare professionals to help reduce the soreness that can occur when wearing face shields all day. We can print about four ear savers in about 90 minutes so that we can print 32 ear savers in 24 hour period."

On Monday, April 6, Iowa Lakes Community College delivered 58 face bands to Lakes Printing to help fill an order for AVERA Holy Family Hospital located in Estherville.

The Iowa Lakes Engineering Technology program will continue to print headbands and ear savers daily. It will contribute to supplies needed by each of the healthcare facilities located in the Iowa Lakes Community College district.

Additionally, students currently enrolled in the Engineering Technology program and other programs like Wind Energy and Turbine Technology have the opportunity to take part in this project.

"Students in the Engineering Technology program are trained to integrate technology to solve real-world problems. Making components for face shields for our frontline healthcare providers is a perfect example of this application," Tischer said. "Our students take part in this project virtually, and it allows them to expand their knowledge base and skills further."

SMOKING, VAPING INCREASE LUNG DAMAGE ODDS

If Dickinson County residents were looking for the right moment to finally kick the habit of smoking or vaping, that time has arrived. With over 1,899 reported cases of COVID-19 in the state of Iowa, including one in Dickinson County, it is important to reduce the risk of serious lung damage associated with novel coronavirus. In addition to proper hand hygiene, frequent cleansing of high-touch surfaces, and following social distancing practices, quitting smoking and vaping can increase your immunity and lower the likelihood of experiencing severe coronavirus symptoms.

Dickinson County Public Health Educator Katy Burke said researchers are beginning to explore the relationship between COVID-19 and the use of tobacco and nicotine products. While studies are limited due to the newness of the coronavirus, initial findings may point to a negative health correlation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted a nationwide study from Feb. 12 to March 28, showing evidence that smoking is among the primary underlying conditions that can lead to serious health complications linked to COVID-19, along with chronic lung disease, heart disease, and diabetes.

Burke added that, according to the "Scientific American," vaping aerosol and cigarette smoke are linked to reduced immune function and increased lung inflammation. Tobacco use also increases your risk of developing chronic lung conditions. This can make it more difficult for smokers and e-cigarette users to combat the effects of the novel coronavirus. As such, the American Lung Association is asking individuals to quit smoking and vaping, improving their bodies’ abilities to fight the virus.

Quitting tobacco can be challenging, but there are many free resources available to help you to manage cravings, identify tobacco triggers, and get back on track after relapses.

• Quitline Iowa offers personalized quit coaching and nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) to Iowans ages 18 and older. Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit their website at quitlineiowa.org to receive cost-free cessation support.

• My Life My Quit provides free, specialized quit coaching for teenagers between the ages of 13-17 seeking assistance to stop vaping, smoking, or using smokeless tobacco. To start your quit journey, text “Start My Quit” to 855-891-9989 or visit mylifemyquit.com.

For up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Dickinson County, follow Lakes Regional Healthcare on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter.

LEARN-FROM-HOME OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

Iowa 4-H Youth Development is committed to providing youth and their families with research-based, accessible online learning opportunities. A collection of online educational resources for K-12 youth audiences is available on the 4-H at home learning resources webpage.

These engaging educational resources from the local, state and national 4-H program are available for all youth and their families to further explore project area learning virtually.

"From aerospace to animal science, 4-H educational opportunities are available online to empower youth to be in the driver's seat of their learning experiences as they engage in developing a skill or learning more about a specific 4-H project area," said Debbie Nistler, state 4-H program leader with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. "The 4-H at home learning resources are providing opportunities for youth to engage in interactive, online learning communities and help provide youth with a sense of belonging in what can be scary and challenging times."

Iowa 4-H youth development will provide new educational content online on a focused topic of learning each week for youth audiences to engage with. Topics will include, but are not limited to, healthy living, civic engagement and leadership, communication and the arts, 4-H project area discovery, and STEM learning. Many county 4-H programs across Iowa are also providing interactive, online learning opportunities for youth.

IOWA MUNICIPAL UTILITIES TAKE ACTION

Community-owned municipal utilities across the state of Iowa are working overtime to provide exceptional services to all residents during the challenging COVID-19 crisis.

Additional measures have been implemented by municipal utilities, such as organizations in Spencer, Indianola and Mount Pleasant to waive late fees and/or suspend disconnections as residents are advised to stay home.

While many office lobbies have been closed off to the public, some municipal organizations, like those in Milford, Muscatine, Sioux Center, Coon Rapids and Atlantic are communicating with customers through phone, email, drive-thru windows, and/or drop boxes.

Other precautions are being taken to keep employees in the field safe by limiting or rescheduling home visits, providing safety gear, separating employees into switch shifts, and providing employees with the necessary tools to work from home.

The Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities represents 755 municipal water, wastewater, electric, natural gas, and broadband utilities statewide, and maintains a marketing relationship with more than 160 associate member businesses. IAMU's mission is to support and strengthen Iowa’s municipal utilities.

LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES RESPOND TO COVID-19 OUTBREAK

Dickinson County Food Pantries are continuing to serve clients during the COVID-19 outbreak, but with some changes. In order to comply with the guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and authorities, the pantries are still serving while adhering to social distancing. Pantries are also considered essential and will continue to operate. If you need assistance getting food from a pantry, please enter your request at iglcoronarelief.org.

Bedell Family YMCA Community Table free meal — 1900 41st St., Spirit Lake, IA 51360

• Wednesdays and Thursdays 5:30-6:30 p.m.

• Process: Staff wil bring a to-go meal out to you. Pick up is on teh north side circle drive near the character center.

Good News Community Church — 712-332-5698 - 1010 Julia St., Okoboji

• 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, 9-11 a.m.

• Process: remain in vehicle. A pantry member will bring pre-packed groceries to your vehicle. Check-in procedures and paperwork will be completed at your vehicle.

Lake Park Mobile Pantry — 712-832-3401

• First Thursday of every month, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

• Process: remain in vehicle. A pantry member will bring pre-packed groceries to your vehicle. Check-in procedures and paperwork will be completed at your vehicle.

Upper Des Moines — 712-336-1112 - 1575 18th St., Spirit Lake

• Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

• Process: remain in vehicle. A pantry member will bring pre-packed groceries to the curbside. Check-in procedures and paperwork will be completed at your vehicle.

Crossroads Food Pantry – 712-362-4390 - 2014 Central Ave., Estherville

• First Thursday of every month, 4-6 p.m.

• Do not arrive before 3 p.m.

• Process: Remain in vehicle. A pantry member will bring pre-packed groceries to your vehicle. Check-in procedures and paperwork will be completed at your vehicle.

Okoboji Community Schools Food Distribution – see locations below

• Monday – Friday, see times below

• Breakfast and lunch meal

• For any resident of Okoboji school district 18 and under

• Pick-up Locations (stay in vehicle):

— Okoboji High School (8-9 a.m.)

— Milford: St. Joseph's Parking Lot (9:30-10 a.m.)

— Arnolds Park: OMS Parking Lot (9:30-10 a.m.)

— Fostoria: Farmers Savings Bank Parking Lot (9:30-10 a.m.)

— Okoboji Elementary Playground Parking Lot (9:30-10 a.m.)

Spirit Lake Community School District (as of March 15)

• For qualified free and/or reduced lunch students a breakfast and lunch meal via grab and go is available.

• Pick-ups take place from 8-9:15 a.m. at the food service loading dock on the south side of the Elementary/Middle School building.

OKOBOJI FOUNDATION ACTIVATES DISASTER RECOVERY FUND

The Okoboji Foundation has established the disaster recovery fund (DRF) to support the area's most negatively impacted populations as they face the effects of COVID-19.

The DRF provides an opportunity for the public to give with the reassurance their donations will be used to quickly move resources where they are most needed and to adapt to evolving needs. The flexibility of the fund will ensure that the community will be able to respond to needs that are not being met by existing non-profit, local, state and federal programs.

The Okoboji Foundation’s Board has committed an immediate $ 10,000 to the disaster recovery fund. The foundation has established a "disaster recovery fund" button at okobojifoundation.org to encourage additional donations.

Dollars received will first focus on disproportionately affected communities by addressing economic needs and health challenges of populations negatively impacted by COVID- 19 related closures and other effects of the outbreak. The long-term application of the fund will focus on additional needs that are not being met by existing non-profit, local, state and federal programs that will inevitably arise.

The Okoboji Foundation is the community foundation for the Iowa Great Lakes Region. Its mission is to be the "Center Point of Community Giving," providing leadership and building beneficial partnerships to make a lasting positive impact in the Iowa Great Lakes Region. Okoboji Foundation is affiliated with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, an organization that meets National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations.