By Beacon Staff



A now-retired Des Moines County Sheriff’s chief deputy made thousands of dollars in improper purchases, according to a report released Tuesday by the Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand.



The report alleges Jeff White, who retired in 2018, made more than $7,400 in purchases that were not necessary for the operation of the sheriff’s office.



White returned about $3,100 in items to the sheriff’s office. Items valued at more than $4,200 were not returned or could not be located in the sheriff’s office, the report said. Some of the items that remain unaccounted for include an Apple computer and ammunition.



KWQC reported the state auditor’s office was contacted to conduct a special investigation because of concerns regarding the items purchased by White. The auditor’s report has been forwarded to the Des Moines County Attorney’s Office, the Attorney General’s Office and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.



“We’ve been working at this (investigation) for 18 months,” Des Moines County Sheriff Mike Johnstone said. “We made sure to do a thorough investigation. We wanted to make sure we did the right thing, to make sure the public still has confidence in the department."



Des Moines County Attorney Lisa Schaefer said she has referred the case to the attorney general’s office because of White's former employment in law enforcement, according to KWQC.



During the investigation, Sand identified improper purchases made between Jan. 1, 2016 and Dec. 31, 2018. The purchases included items that were personal in nature or not related to the operations of the sheriff’s office. The purchases also were not approved by someone other than White and were not included in budgeted expenditures.



Of the improper purchases identified, items costing $99 and $79 were returned to the vendor and refunded. While the items returned are reasonable for use in the sheriff’s office, they weren't planned purchases and weren't approved by anyone other than White. Some of the items were not returned until after White’s last day of according to Sand’s report.



Lynn Hicks, a spokeswoman for the attorney general's office, said a charging decision has not yet been made.



The Associated Press contributed to this article.

Audit Finds Improper Purchases By Des Moines County Deputy

By Beacon Staff



A resident of the SunnyBrook Assisted Living Center tested positive for COVID-19 on April 10 and currently is recovering at Great River Medical Center in West Burlington without the assistance of a ventilator.



Kathy Swann, vice president of sales and marketing for Frontier Management, LLC., said it is the only confirmed case at the assisted living center. Frontier Management, based in Oregon, manages nursing homes across the country, including SunnyBrook in Burlington.

One Coronavirus Cased Reported at SunnyBrook in Burlington

By Beacon Staff



The Iowa Governor’s office reported Des Moines County’s first COVID-19 death on Sunday.



The person was between 61 and 80-years-old. Additional details about the patient, including when the person succumbed to the virus, were not released Sunday afternoon.



Des Moines County currently has 16 diagnosed cases of COVID-19, and five of them have recovered. So far, 233 people living in Des Moines County have been tested for coronavirus.



The number of local COVID-19 cases currently sits at five in Lee County, eight in Van Buren County, 266 in Louisa County (including two deaths), and 31 in Henry in County (including one death).



Iowa reported its highest single-day total of COVID-19 cases Saturday as the state increases testing and targets workers at meatpacking plants and nursing homes that have been hit hard by the new coronavirus. Shearer’s Foods in West Burlington and Doran &amp; Ward Packaging in Burlington have each reported one confirmed case of coronavirus so far.



There were 648 positive tests in a 24-hour reporting period that ended at 10 a.m. Saturday, the Iowa Department of Public Health said in a statement/ That news came one day after 521 new cases were reported and pushed the total in Iowa to over 5,000.



As of 11 a.m. Sunday, April 26, Iowa had recorded 5,476 cases of COVID-19, including 118 deaths. Exactly 286 people have been hospitalized from the virus, and 1,900 have recovered so far. A total of 36,090 Iowans have been tested.

Des Moines County Suffers First Coronavirus Death

By Beacon Staff



A few years ago, tennis enthusiast Brian Japsen took on a Herculean fundraising task — making up a shortfall of $76,000.



With that money, the Burlington Tennis Association could help the city offset the cost of repaving the Dankwardt Park tennis courts. The city received a $106,000 Starker Foundation grant, but resurfacing the Dankwardt Park tennis courts costs about $182,000.



According to Burlington Mayor Jon Billups, the city has been trying to fund the project for several years, hoping to match the grant money without using city funds. Funding that $76,000 shortfall proved to be the biggest barrier.



Japsen has drummed up more than $74,000 in pledges from a variety of donors, including a donation from the Judy and John Arledge Charitable Foundation, as well as another local foundation. Marcia Carman and Cindy Heater also helped with the local fundraising activities.



“We have had very generous donations from tennis players in our area,” Japsen said.



The Burlington Tennis Association presented the Burlington City Council with the first installment of $11,500 last week.



Billups said the fundraising campaign and initial contribution has enabled the city to accept bids on the project.



“The city thanks Brian and Renee (Brian Japsen’s wife), plus all those who pledged donations. Your efforts will benefit the parks and all,” he said.



Japsen, a 1978 BHS graduate who has been playing tennis since middle school, gets the satisfaction of helping his city and the firm footing of a springy new tennis court.



“If you take a look around we have the RecPlex, the brand new sports bubble, and two awesome golf courses. Why not great tennis courts?” Japsen said.



Donations are still being accepted for the project. Monetary donations can be mailed to Burlington Tennis Association: 1925 Osborn Street, Burlington, Iowa 52601.



(Editor's Note: Everyday Heroes is an ongoing series featuring people who make a difference in our community. If you want to nominate someone for a story, contact us at burlingtonbeacon@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.)



Photo by Joy Mack



The tennis courts at Dankwardt Park in Burlington are in need of resurfacing. Thanks to the fundraising efforts of tennis enthusiast Brian Japsen, the repaving project is moving forward.

Tennis Enthusiast Helps Paving Project Move Forward

By Beacon Staff



A sizable pile of debris and trash litters the drive leading to the historic Dolbee Cemetery.



The trash, which includes part of a sofa chair, is on local law enforcement’s radar. Pictures of the debris pile, which appears to have been dumped, circulated on Facebook over the weekend.



Des Moines Sheriff Mike Johnstone said he was disgusted by what he saw, noting the matter is under investigation.



Founded in 1848, the Dolbee Cemetery was the second cemetery built on the bluff in Huron Township, more than a dozen miles north of Burlington. The roughly one-acre cemetery has an entrance off Mediapolis Road.



The first cemetery signs at the Dolbee Cemetery were erected in the late 1960s.



Photo by Joy Mack

Dolbee Cemetery Drive Trashed

By Beacon Staff



State health officials announced on Sunday that nine more Iowans have died from COVID-19 and 528 new cases have been confirmed in the state.



The new numbers mean the state has now surpassed 9,000 confirmed positive cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), with the latest tally at 9,169. There are 378 people currently hospitalized, and 3,325 Iowans have recovered, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health.



Sunday's numbers bring the state's total COVID-19 related deaths to 184. The nine deaths were reported in the following counties:



Black Hawk County, 2 elderly adults (81+) Bremer County, 1 elderly adult (81+) Dallas County, 1 older adult (61-80 years) Dubuque, 1 older adult (61-80 years) Polk County, 2 older adults (61-80 years) Poweshiek County, 2 elderly adults (81+)



According to IDPH, 77 percent of the new cases announced Sunday are in the 22 counties where restrictions remain in place. Businesses in the 22 counties, including Des Moines County, remain on restrictions until at least May 15.



There have been an additional 2,932 negative tests for a total of 44,017 negative tests to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs.

Nine More COVID-19 Deaths In Iowa; Positive Cases Pass 9K Mark

Weird Harold's at 411 Jefferson Street in downtown Burlington has the best selection of collectible and new VINYL RECORDS, CDs, DVD's and so much more! Weird Harold's is currently doing curbside and will ship! 



Call (319) 753-5353, message on social media, visit www.weirdharolds.com, or come down and knock on the door to pick up curbside!

SHOP LOCAL: SHOP WEIRD HAROLD'S

By Beacon Staff



Two Tyson Foods employees died due to a novel coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) outbreak that has swept through the workforce at the Columbus Junction plant.



The deaths of the Tyson workers are the first known to be linked to an outbreak at a meatpacking plant in Iowa. The company said that it was "deeply saddened by the loss of two team members" and that their families were in its thoughts and prayers.



The plant has been shut down since April 6, when Tyson announced that more than two dozen workers were infected. Since then, 148 people total have tested positive in connection to the outbreak.



The company said Monday that it would continue the plant's suspension this week after more workers tested positive.



— The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Two Tyson Employees Die Of COVID-19

Photo by Anthony Dewitt



"The park is coming alive," said Janet Allgood of Burlington who was taking photos of magnolias last week in Crapo Park in Burlington.

Nature In Bloom

By Beacon Staff



Burlington firefighters quickly extinguished a furnace fire Wednesday evening after neighbors reported a loud “boom” on Gunnison Street at 4:47 p.m. Wednesday, April 15.



A dozen Burlington firefighters responded to the reported furnace explosion within three minutes and saw smoke issuing from the two-story wood-frame house as they arrived. Once on scene, firefighters discovered a fire above the furnace, and immediately extinguished it. They stayed on the scene until 7:10 p.m. while the source of the blaze was investigated.



Burlington Fire Marshall Mark Crooks said the cause of the fire was accidental, a mechanical malfunction within the furnace.



The single-family home, owned by Brian and Elizabeth Mosher, sustained about $20,000 in damage to the structure, furnace, and electrical system. There were two occupants in the house at the time of the incident, and both were able to escape without injury.



The house is insured and was equipped with working smoke detectors.



Six West Burlington firefighters responded to a call for mutual aid. The Burlington Police Department. Superior Ambulance and Alliant Energy also assisted at the scene.

Firefighters Snuff Out Furnace Explosion

By Beacon Staff



Des Moines County has recorded a dozen new cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) since Monday, just as Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the opening of a drive-thru coronavirus test site Wednesday (May 27) in Burlington.



The drive-thru test site will be across from Great River Medical Center in West Burlington at the Des Moines County Fairgrounds (next to Southeastern Community College). The entrance is on Gear Avenue.



On Thursday, Reynolds echoed an earlier statement by President Donald Trump announcing that anyone who wants a (coronavirus) test can get one. But you must take an online health assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.TestIowa.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1vH1E0CcOsMcmWEhjm1W0DnIaDosHmpzCVb9AJBv_m3-CDSRZn5-C4BEI&amp;h=AT1DHrw7lrgQszlIqwBsHFfTBML91vhnfN3J98lUI1cwV2_sKb33jg6YwrhSvWbaXjt8nJ4hP-sWTH8ug-OyJbyoRlS6B3WgQO7imVHxnN18ycFbhPshYOZGLPusKFwgW3PYYnvPNAjsk2GIOlHxL7GqaDFPWxZEYgFqiXfG3OULkbwDjV4gWPDUHEwqdqFrttMz71Tyn3xrG_IM_4A3rCa8HMXKfrYsnEyjaj5waV6a7sE5Zz2KCoMFxm00R7Y-LAWWVjlfvkNy_JzLREiGHaiLTvl5he2gtytOic8eGRrYOgU4lEm-sLIOCOSj5CMK-FpPEVd7mHgPxK_hzHW11zLwdYQ46clQDMfOF5fDgmS5uPfB96_jLz2R-AKi9zmm3c23_o9HjSDFkw3Mc2YQrzrjzXMmjc9vVMBhkbzDfhCzV-152r--lkt5TbD4rhOxydw0rdkh4kGqH5-fLc-YKLTEGdfWsTgyDqYB8DsrH-omO4_Bgyo4SbO6OuVYuC9sjQshYXubBcoSjkiQIj_7XxWbWB0K-c91sh355BRcMPTnmd3GHfchCJxkMFQfmz9PsA16fqBTYaVizCHWqTtZbzOnKZqGZIeGwJE2fCcxr1zHHWo-lJvAmK-fb4H2qsBHi6q54GVZQNpwrTdBkJy36dE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.TestIowa.com</a>&nbsp;beforehand. Assessment questions include symptoms, exposure to COVID-19, occupation, and travel.



After the assessment, those still interested in taking a test will be directed to make an appointment by telephone. Appointments will be accepted beginning Tuesday, May 26. Currently, the closest place to get a COVID-19 test is at Eagle View Health Center in Oquawka, Ill.



The test, which takes only a few minutes to complete, consists of a swab inserted into the back of the nasal cavity. The swab is sent to the state hygienic laboratory, and results are usually available with 48 to 72 hours.



Des Moines County now has 52 reported cases, with 30 people listed as recovered. The death toll remains at one for the county.



A total of 16,435 positive cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Iowa, and 8,917 have recovered. The death toll currently stands at 424, which includes 17 deaths between 11 a.m. on Thursday and 11 a.m. on Friday.



So far, one in 26 Iowans has been tested, totaling 119,604.

Coronavirus Test Site Opening in Burlington; Des Moines County Has 52 Cases of COVID-19

By Beacon Staff



There is another case of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Des Moines County, the Iowa Department of Public Health announced on Sunday.



The new case in Des Moines County is that of an adult aged 41-60 years. That brings the total confirmed cases to three in Des Moines County.



In addition to the Des Moines County case, state officials announced seven more COVID-19-related deaths, which brings the total to 41. The seven deaths include two older adults between 61-80 years and four elderly adults older than 81 years old in Linn County, and one elderly adult above the age of 81 from Washington County.



There were 77 new positive cases, including six in Louisa County. The total of confirmed cases in Iowa now stands at 1,587, with a total of 16,005 negative tests.

New COVID-19 Case in Des Moines County; Seven More Deaths Reported

By Beacon Staff



The defunct JCPenney parking lot at Westland Mall in West Burlington teemed with faithful Easter parishioners Sunday morning, and not one of them came within breathing distance of the other.



Members of the Burlington First Assembly of God Worship Team belted out their love for Jesus as they strummed their guitars on a mobile stage at the south end of the parking, their voices filtering through the car radios of those in attendance.



Unable to leave their vehicles without breaking Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds’ social distance mandate to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the drivers elatedly pounded their car horns after the opening song. Normally a noise of annoyance, the applause substitute did not go unappreciated.



“Lord, you let there be a way. We didn’t think it was going to happen,” First Assembly of God pastor Scott Collier said.



The non-denominational drive-in Easter service was simple and efficient and open to everyone. Parishioners arrived and left as they pleased, some settling into the back pews (the north end of the JCPenney parking lot) shortly after the service started.



Most of the vehicles were separated by a parking space, allowing for social interaction at six feet for those who rolled down their car windows.



Collier reiterated the only rule of the service as he led the radio broadcast prayer.



“Please, do not leave your vehicles,” he said.



Collier didn’t dwell on coronavirus during his sermon, nor did he ignore it. Most churches across Burlington, including First Assembly of God, have been delivering church services online. Collier treated the virus as the constant it is likely to be.



“God, we pray for the essential workers, and we pray your hands to be upon them,” he said.



Upwards of 50 vehicles could be counted at the service, and the only ones wandering around outside were church volunteers taking coffee orders for parishioners. Worshipers who brought their own supplies performed communion within the mobile isolation units that got them there.



“If you can hear me, honk your horns,” Collier said, the air once again filling with a sharp sound. “Be grateful the grave was empty."



Photos by Jeff Abell



Area residents attended a non-denominational drive-in Easter service Sunday at Westland Mall in West Burlington.

Celebrating The Resurrection Of Jesus From A Car Seat

By Beacon Staff



More than 20 classic vehicles rolled past Sunnybrook Assisted Living Center in Burlington Saturday evening, bringing a bit of joy to the residents stuck inside.



The Corona Cruise, a social distancing car cruise, began in Keokuk, motoring past nursing homes on its way down through Fort Madison, Burlington, then back again.



The event hosted by the Nauvoo Grape Festival Association and Heartland Harley Davidson began early Saturday afternoon, the cars beating through the rain between Fort Madison and Burlington. A father and son duo wore gas masks during the ride, poking fun at a quarantine that’s driving everyone a bit stir crazy.



The best thing about it, of course, was that no one came within six feet of each other. The drivers didn’t even enter the same air space, so to speak.



The only cost to join the cruise was a non-perishable food item that will be donated to local food pantries.



Photo by Joy Mack

Cruising Through Corona

By William Smith



It has been a year since Kathy Johnson became director of the Burlington Area Homeless Shelter.



She has been helping the less fortunate far longer than that. However, her aversion to attention has left those acts of kindness unsung.



"As cliche as it sounds, my mom has always been able to take lemons and make lemonade. She is right where she needs to be in life, being a blessing to others. My mother is persistent, stubborn, empathetic, and a humanitarian,” said Krystal Johnson, who nominated her mother to be one of The Beacon's Everyday Heroes.



On Memorial Day, fittingly enough, Johnson will be taking one of the nation’s many homeless veterans into the shelter. He isn’t the first veteran she has taken in, and he won’t be the last.



“He already has a job, but he’s been living in his truck. He’s been paying for his own medication, but we’ve got the VA paying for part of it now," she said, noting a stay at the shelter is typically two to four months.



The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) hasn’t made Johnson’s job any easier. The shelter normally can house 11 people, but Johnson has been forced to cut the occupancy in half to follow state-mandated COVID-19 safety protocols.



“We provide food, clothing, transportation,” Johnson said. “If the BUS (Burlington Urban Service) isn’t available, we pay for a cab for them to get to work until they get their first paycheck.”



The homeless shelter is 100 percent funded through community donations and the United Way, not taxpayer dollars. The shelter survives entirely on the goodwill of others, and Johnson channels that monetary kindness into second chances.



Every resident is different, and many need more help than the shelter can provide. They are buoyed by a network of social services across Burlington that work closely with the shelter.



Alcohol and Drug Dependency Services of Southeast Iowa (ADDS) provides counseling to addicts looking for help. The Nest of Des Moines County supports new and expectant mothers with formula, diapers, and parental classes. Hope Haven and other mental health services provide stabilization. Hope Haven sets aside vouchers for clothing and furniture for homeless shelter residents at its thrift store.



Johnson worked freelance in the healthcare field before living in the shelter (a job requirement) with her 13-year-old German Shepherd. She has cared for those with Parkinson’s Disease, patients with brain damage, substance-addicted teens, and hospice patients at the end of their life.



It’s what she does. It’s what she has always done, starting with her father.



“My dad was sick for years. He got radiation poisoning at the plant (IAAP), so I helped take care of him for 17 years,” she said.



Johnson has two grown children, including a son who was also ill for several years, and four grandchildren.



“Tough but fair” is a requirement for a job like hers, and decades of experience have attuned Johnson to dealing with adversity.



“Since I’ve started, I’ve only had to kick three people out,” she said, noting that one of those involved an incident with alcohol.



After becoming director a year ago, Johnson had security cameras installed on the upper floor where most of the rooms are located. Extensive background checks of residents during the application process are required, especially since families also are housed in the shelter. The doors are locked to the general public, and strangers are forbidden.



Johnson has unlimited access to background checks through the Des Moines County Sheriff’s office. If an applicant is found to be a registered sex offender, she notifies the police. If there is a warrant for their arrest, they are taken into custody.



“I will take you if you’re an addict as long as you’re not actively using. You have to go to ADDS, though. I will take the mentally ill as long as we’re able to help them,” she said.



If the shelter is full, Johnson works to find alternative housing. Rooms can’t be held because that often means turning away someone else.



Each night ends in a communal, home-cooked meal at the first-floor kitchen table. While many women and families use the shelter, the majority of the residents are men who refuse to seek help from friends and family.



“It’s a pride thing for them a lot of times,” Johnson said.



Without the 11-person board of directors that oversee the shelter, she said, no one would be staying in the modest white house on Marshall Street. It’s due to their kindness, and the community at large, that the down-and-out get another chance for a stable life.



Johnson sees herself merely as their willing tool — an instrument of humanity.



“I have a gift for caring for people, and that’s a good thing,” she said. “This is where God wanted me.”



(Editor’s Note: Everyday Heroes is an ongoing series featuring people who make a difference in our community. If you want to nominate someone for a story, contact us at burlingtonbeacon@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.)



Photos by Joy Mack



Photos 1 and 2: Kathy Johnson, director of the Burlington Area Homeless Shelter, poses for photos at the shelter. Johnson's willingness to help others has extended to her job at the homeless shelter.



Photos 3-7: The exterior and the interior of the homeless shelter are shown last week.

An Instrument of Kindness

By Jeff Abell



As much as food feeds the body, hope feeds the soul. With both in mind, local food pantries work hard each week to fill empty stomachs and vacant hearts.



That mission has become more challenging due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Unemployment due to business closures has only increased the already high demand for food items throughout the area.



Salvation Army Lt. Dennis Jolly echoed that sentiment, adding that the faith-based charitable organization has seen an uptick in new clients. He said it has been challenging keeping shelves stocked, but so far everyone's needs have been met.



"There are people who are using the food bank for the first time. Some have lost their jobs because of the coronavirus," he said.



Jolly said food donations are always accepted and, once received, they are quarantined for the maximum time required by health guidelines governing COVID-19. The food pantry is open to all and each ready-to-pick-up basket contains several food items.



"Donations are always needed. We can make a dollar go a long way," Jolly said. " It's an honor and a privilege to serve this community."



At the Food Bank of Iowa Ottumwa Distribution Center, volunteers have been working to keep food pantries throughout the state stocked. Dylan Lampe, senior manager of marketing and communications, said it has been challenging for the non-profit to keep up with demand.



'We had one order that came in that was 20 times what it normally would be," Lampe said. "It has required us to be creative."



Food pantries also are facing a shortage of volunteers due to the self-imposed isolation of older volunteers. In light of the shortage of manpower, Lampe said volunteer shifts have been reduced at the food bank. The same situation is playing out at the Salvation Army.



"Our older volunteers are just not able to come in but we are getting by," Jolly said, adding that food baskets are distributed by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays to minimize contact.



Despite having to navigate a new normal, non-profit food providers are learning to adapt. If a person is worried about donating a food item due to COVID-19 concerns, Jolly and Lampe say monetary donations are always welcome.



"These are challenging times, and the impact will be felt for a long time, but we will get through this," Lampe said.



To donate food, give a monetary donation, or volunteer, contact the Burlington Salvation Army at (319) 753-2038. To donate to the Food Bank of Iowa Ottumwa Distribution Center, contact (641) 682-3403.



To schedule an appointment at Kayla's Cupboard, contact (319) 237-8400. The St. Vincent de Paul Society food pantry can be contacted at (319) 752-9332.



Photo by Jeff Abell



Food items ready to be donated to a local food pantry are shown Wednesday in Burlington.

Empty Stomachs, Vacant Hearts: Food Pantries Work To Keep Up With Demand

By Beacon Staff



The Flint River Trail from Starr’s Cave Nature Center to the Starr’s Cave Bridge is closed beginning today (Wednesday, April 15) for trail maintenance and silt removal, according to the Des Moines County Conservation Department.



Conservation officials said spring flooding left behind a large amount of sediment on and around the trail that needs to be removed. The project requires heavy equipment to travel on the trail, thus resulting in the closure notice.



The trail is expected to reopen on Thursday, April 30. For more information, contact Starr’s Cave Nature Center at (319) 753-5808.

Section of Trail Closed Until End Of The Month

By Beacon Staff



Beginning Monday (April 13), road construction will impact Fifth Street from Locust to Walnut streets, according to city officials.



Crews from FYE Excavating will be removing the old roadway, installing new storm sewers, and preparing the road for paving. After the storm sewers are installed on each block, the roadway will be paved, including intersections and driveway approaches.



Each block will be impacted for two to four weeks, depending on the weather, and the construction will affect parking and travel on those roadways. If you have any questions throughout construction, please feel free to contact the city staff on the job site or call the public works office at 319-753-8176.

Storm Sewer Work Will Affect Parking, Travel on Fifth Street

Photo by Anthony Dewitt



With a flick of the wrist, Elijah Kane of Burlington plays a round of disc golf Easter Sunday in Crapo Park in Burlington.

A Flick of the Wrist

By Beacon Staff



In what has become a familiar scene, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds stood at a podium to give her daily televised COVID-19 status report to Iowans. Today, as she did yesterday, she had the grim duty of announcing more deaths related to the novel coronavirus.



At Wednesday's press conference, Reynolds announced four more COVID-19-related deaths and 96 new confirmed cases in Iowa. The Iowa Department of Public Health has not released the ages and locations of the four people who died. Nor have they yet released information regarding those who most-recently tested positive for COVID-19.



Wednesday's announcement brings the state's total number of deaths to 53 with 1,995 confirmed positive cases. In Des Moines County, there are seven confirmed cases of COVID-19.



Reynolds said there are 407 negative tests for a total of 17,847 total negative tests in the state. There currently are 3,048 tests available, and 908 Iowans have recovered for a 46 percent recovery rate, she added.



State health officials confirmed the seventh outbreak at a long-term care facility in Iowa. Wilton Retirement Community in Wilton reported an outbreak this week, the IDPH said. A total of 171 Iowans are hospitalized with COVID-19, with 20 admitted in the past 24 hours. Of those hospitalized, 78 are listed in intensive care and 43 are on ventilators.



There are 7,930 hospital beds available in Iowa, with 533 ICU beds available and 718 ventilators available, according to state health officials.

Four More Deaths Reported; Des Moines County has Seven Confirmed COVID-19 Cases

By Beacon Staff



An unseasonably late winter/spring storm is expected to hit Burlington Thursday afternoon, possibly leaving more than half-a-foot of wet, slushy snow on the ground.



Forecasters with the National Weather Service sounded the snow alarm Wednesday afternoon, warning of 4 to 6 inches of snow between 4 p.m. Thursday and 7 a.m. Friday for Southeast Iowa and the surrounding area.



The concentrated, local forecast issued by the NWS has a 90 percent chance for 4 to 8 inches in Burlington. The wet, heavy snow will likely start falling by Thursday afternoon or early evening, bringing with it wind gusts of up to 25 mph.



Drifting won’t be a problem with such heavy snow, NWS says, but the clumpy precipitation could down tree limbs and possibly even power lines.



Friday’s high is expected to reach 44 degrees, and the high will climb to 56 degrees Saturday. No further precipitation is forecast for the weekend.

Spring Snowstorm Could Blanket Burlington

By Jeff Abell



"A book is a dream you hold in your hands." — Neil Gaiman, author



Olivia Keller, a Burlington native, is a living testament to Gaiman's sentiment. She is a woman on a mission — to spread literacy awareness. In doing so, she hopes to foster the hopes, aspirations, and dreams of others through greater access to books.



For Keller, 23, promoting literacy has always been a cause that has been dear to her heart. Keller believes in the power of reading to unlock a person's potential — to educate, enlighten, and enrich lives.



"Literacy affects everything we do in life," Keller said.



Keller cites troubling statistics, saying America has a literacy crisis. She said at least 14 percent of our population does not know how to read or write at a proficient level. About 65 percent of fourth-graders are not at a proficient level which makes them four times more likely to drop out of high school.



Although reading has been a long-held passion for Keller, her literacy initiative became a reality this year during her participation in the Miss Iowa Scholarship Program. Keller, who was a runner up for Miss Burlington, chose literacy as her social impact initiative.



"The social impact initiative is a platform cause that is something we care about, have experience with, and want to work to promote," she said. "I chose to do literary awareness and named my social impact initiative Read to Succeed. Learning to read and write is so important."



On the local level, Keller has put Read to Succeed in action. It hasn't been an easy task during this time of social distancing due to the COVID-19 outbreak. However, Keller rose to the challenge and utilized social media to get the word out.



Through the hashtag&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/read2succeed?source=feed_text&amp;epa=HASHTAG&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARBSKiLTZ52oUASxV6vk2Jl_rCl7i1Ryaj7gkRVxZz5NzgS18jWr_s6f6xmWsJVoXG6XukLZHr_gH0OlAF1ifgZWQWbG2JecgQHVIUps4zQQQ5s1dctdyBcmW58b-Rws_tFhHGwzS9djubRk8Gy-yGqRnGzJCxbUhVuSM22SB5BMi58-vDWeYamMRvquRU_BnYB1k0vtTQXK9scBlUfXvJWRRV5tfmkar5PO8ApR6onqdvU56e3RstGlbYKEpFbN_GjjtAJIicefp7PC6UjiNrx8nV6s_whmEux-S1Dy-vmdaoOcIfHnCfe9oFNCttU18Wiln2DAPQMkpSwnOmwy9gw&amp;__tn__=%2ANK-R">#Read2Succeed</a>, Keller put out a call to those with books to donate. The goal is to get books in the hands of people who can't afford or don't have access to reading materials. Also, Keller said it provides a fun activity during this time of self-isolation, like a literary scavenger hunt.



Participating is simple: select books to donate, put them in a box or basket, place them on the front porch, and use the hashtag&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/readtosucceed?source=feed_text&amp;epa=HASHTAG&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARBSKiLTZ52oUASxV6vk2Jl_rCl7i1Ryaj7gkRVxZz5NzgS18jWr_s6f6xmWsJVoXG6XukLZHr_gH0OlAF1ifgZWQWbG2JecgQHVIUps4zQQQ5s1dctdyBcmW58b-Rws_tFhHGwzS9djubRk8Gy-yGqRnGzJCxbUhVuSM22SB5BMi58-vDWeYamMRvquRU_BnYB1k0vtTQXK9scBlUfXvJWRRV5tfmkar5PO8ApR6onqdvU56e3RstGlbYKEpFbN_GjjtAJIicefp7PC6UjiNrx8nV6s_whmEux-S1Dy-vmdaoOcIfHnCfe9oFNCttU18Wiln2DAPQMkpSwnOmwy9gw&amp;__tn__=%2ANK-R">#ReadToSucceed</a>&nbsp;to post your participation information on social media. Keller said it is important to follow all COVID-19 mitigation guidelines.



"My goal with Read to Succeed is to provide those in need (mostly our youth) with books and reading materials so that they may be able to learn and gain confidence with literacy at home," Keller said. "The response has been positive. As word gets out, I think it will grow."



As Keller gears up for the Miss Iowa Scholarship pageant this summer, she has an eye on expanding her local literacy program. Keller is looking at broadening her social media presence and reaching out to news outlets. She also would like to conduct lectures and presentations on the topic of literacy.



"There is so much more I want to do with this. I also work to inform parents and caregivers on the importance of reading to their children and helping them with English homework at home," she said.



For Keller, if one child learns to love reading or improves their writing skills through the initiative, then Read to Succeed is already a success.



"I love to read and I want to help others to love to read," she said.



(Editor's Note: Everyday Heroes is an ongoing series featuring people who make a difference in our community. If you want to nominate someone for a story, contact us at burlingtonbeacon@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.)



Photo by Joy Mack



Olivia Keller of Burlington started the Read to Succeed initiative to promote literacy. She is shown with books to be donated near the Great River Bridge in Burlington.

Keller Advocates For Literacy Through Initiative

By Pat Rynard Iowa Starting Line



The Tyson meatpacking plant in Columbus Junction, where a major outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) turned Louisa County into one of the biggest per-capita hot spots in the country, is restarting some of its operations today (Tuesday, April 21).



The plant closed on April 6 after over two dozen of its employees tested positive for the coronavirus. After the state sent hundreds of testing kits to the southeast Iowa town to conduct surveillance tests of the employees, 166 workers were confirmed to have contracted the virus. Two have since died.



On Monday, multiple sources confirmed to Starting Line that workers were being called back into the plant for work Tuesday. One provided a screenshot of a text message that read, “Team Members of the Kill Floor &amp; Rendo are working tomorrow 4/21/20 at regular start time except those who are sick or tested positive.”



The sources said the “hot room” of the plant, which they say has between 200 and 250 workers, would be restarting.



The company then confirmed on Monday that the Columbus Junction plant would resume limited production Tuesday morning and then slowly ramp up capacity.



It has now been two weeks since the plant shuttered, and Tyson has said they have taken significant steps to clean their facilities and provide for social distancing between employees in places like the break room.



Multiple workers told Starting Line last week that earlier steps at several meatpacking plants in Iowa did not line up with various companies’ statements.



“In an effort to promote social distancing, many company facilities have installed workstation dividers and are providing more breakroom space,” a Tyson press release stated this evening.



As the outbreaks have spread throughout Midwestern meatpacking facilities, states have provided the kind of widespread testing at targeted locations that many argue are necessary to detect who all are infected and get them isolated.



Tyson now has the benefit of knowing who had the virus in previous weeks when testing was conducted, allowing them to keep those employees from reentering the workplace. However, it’s not clear how many of the workers who tested negative may have spent the past week around family members or others living in their homes and communities who might have had the virus and transmitted it further.



Louisa County currently has 215 cases. That’s the equivalent of over 1,900 cases per 100,000 population. Only a small handful of places in the entire country have higher per capita rates than that. Louisa County’s rate has now surpassed New York City’s and New Orleans’. Surrounding Iowa counties like Muscatine, where many plant workers live, has also seen soaring case numbers.

Tyson's Columbus Junction Plant Is Restarting

By Beacon Staff



Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the continued closure of Iowa schools during a press conference Friday morning, (April 17).



Schools will remain closed through the end of the academic year to curb the spread of coronavirus.



School districts will continue to offer distance learning opportunities, both online and through paper packets distributed to students, for the remainder of the school year. In a reversal of an earlier policy Reynolds put in place, students will not be required to make up the time missed during the shutdown.



The Burlington School District responded to the closure of the school’s official Facebook account.



“We are committed to continue providing learning opportunities and services for our students during this challenging time. We continue to update our plans and will share information and updates as they are available. Please continue to check our school website,&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bcsds.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3ky8t4FTKte-CkxMKqfn12PDAkrCtYp-ItIbwBnmlpJwyCNbeq4IRnaBU&amp;h=AT26j0UkxUY27_a2ywGpoyyzeWlTSt1KFCZ2JIAlV7WWCkNOCbEBqnDZyyjwk-NkpcLN7uLerdYAznt5scZdv4gGaA_I82oN8X0RhLPVjA9GLC77wPV0II5PsYBUhi5H33X1qlq-M30JNZ8Emw_ecu3gb_nMzjBlVRqONbNftB6r9ec31BPiWUjcBu4699BY37ipTKaNfDDuNL7F3lXAgylJgKpmlUDh-mMovIoxYKuT7yNgI2jcFnoffOA80-w7BQAoQCZDgcdMYBCNa3n1EKn0sKk8Og2ifbbM1qH4pq7X9Q1-7cD-KmsN7inMpiTLiZ_dJcOmVuD5GZpu40hw_ZJAgjbbaty8K1cnOWWEAnwg9Mfq7sXif3CLiVf1KxU9bNQmNZlT2XJTTLTjMvetpOOGNeZWWy1_wVLZzrv2RlRNyZ0Z-JuDNAxOJVZFMcGZEGDhrVom1xGFSJoBO0C7YY59JQpeLIDi-plQevibvlgGxU_V290Cs7A5w2ZNz7qnQ59E6Ms2XFgy-hcqfcZS60nrFQsFjUrd2rwggYJ-PV92PN8jbAFfA8TlNEkQQuCDmQpBMnIPNzc_9E6R2VfmGLsaf8EJnoT5n06pFRhvuNb0wuaJGMlX70HJouGf7nVdmHy9kxo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.bcsds.org</a>&nbsp;for regular updates or call our school closure hotline, (319) 753-9698, for assistance,” the statement reads.



Burlington Notre Dame responded in much the same way on its Facebook page.



“The school is working on contingencies regarding this. We will have something out to you next week,” the statement reads.



The West Burlington School District had a materials pick-up event Wednesday that will allow students the chance to learn at home. The district has not officially responded to the governor’s new declaration.



All high school spring sports are canceled as well. The cancellation covers boys' and girls' track and field, soccer, golf, and tennis. There will be a decision made on summer sports (baseball and softball) by June 1. For now, those sports are suspended until that decision is made.



The governor also announced Friday that she will waive the late-August start date requirement, which could allow school districts to start the 2020-2021 academic year earlier than Aug. 23.



"Maybe there's a possibility for schools to start three weeks early and start some of that remediation so that we can start to see where the kids are at and help provide them the instruction they need to get them there to where they should be," Reynolds said.



Schools are required to submit a "return to learn" plan to the Iowa Department of Education by July 1 that could include things like summer school classes, enrichment activities or other programs designed to address disruptions to learning.



The Associated Press contributed to this article.

Schools In Iowa Will Remain Closed For The Rest Of This Academic Year

By Beacon Staff



A record-breaking snowfall swept across Burlington Thursday night, leaving 7 inches of rapidly melting snow.



Much of that 7 inches has evaporated, but not before setting the 2019-20 snowfall record for Burlington. The highest measured snowfall before that was roughly 4 inches at the end of October 2019.



Locally higher amounts were observed, but Burlington’s seven inches was the second-highest in the state, according to the National Weather Service.



The tiny town of Beaconsfield (population of 15) in Ringgold County recorded the most snow at 9 inches.



Photo by Anthony Dewitt



A storm that swept over the area dumped 7 inches of wet snow on Burlington.