By Beacon Staff



Burlington resident Keith Turrill believes he may have contracted the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) a few months ago.



He is not sure, of course, and likely never will be without a serologic (antibody test), which detects antibodies people develop after becoming infected with the novel coronavirus. Unlike the cotton swab test, the serologic test is not considered reliable by the CDC, which Turrill understands.



Since Turrill did exhibit most of the symptoms of coronavirus and is considered high risk because of his asthma, he figured it would be prudent to get a cotton swab test. Drive-thru testing conducted by health professionals from Great River Health System began Wednesday at the Des Moines County Fairgrounds in West Burlington.



“It went pretty well. I went online, did the survey,” he said, noting that was the first step.



Qualifying For The Test



Before obtaining an appointment to be tested at the Des Moines County Fairgrounds, individuals must first complete a brief survey on the Test Iowa website. Questions range from medical (identifying if you are diabetic, pre-diabetic, etc.) to behavioral, such as how often you are in public. You will also be asked to provide your height and weight.



The website determines if you are eligible for a test, as Turrill was. The option to test in Des Moines County does not appear on the initial confirmation screen (the closest test site presented is Ottumwa). However, if you signify you wanted to be tested at a local clinic by clicking that option, the Des Moines County test site does appear.



From there, you are given a unique identity code and a QR code, which must be scanned at the test site, either with a print-out copy or screen capture on your phone. An email containing this information is also sent.



You must then call the clinic, present your case-sensitive identity code, and then schedule an appointment.



Turrill said he didn’t get his email until after he tested, but it worked out fine. He just presented a copy of the code when he arrived using a screenshot from his phone.



Taking The Test



Turrill scheduled his appointment for 8:30 a.m. Wednesday and he waited in line for 15 minutes — mostly due to a large semi truck-trailer in front of him.



“I think they were trying to figure out how to get up on the truck and test them,” Turrill said.



Those who arrive for a test are told not to leave their vehicles, so the truck driver never had to exit.



His test went even quicker, which is the norm.



“They checked my ID, and put the swab in my nose for a few seconds,” Turrill said.



Some people report painful aftereffects, such as Burlington resident Wendi Riggens. Her nose itched and burned for about 30 minutes afterward.



Turrill suffered no post-swab discomfort.



“It felt like blowing your nose,” he said.



Doctors test for COVID-19 by collecting a culture from the mucus in the uppermost part of the throat, behind the nose. A cotton-tipped swab is gently passed through a nostril and into the nasopharynx, which is located over the roof of the mouth. The swab is quickly rotated and removed.



Turrill will know his results about three days after the test, but he’s sure he’s negative. He hasn’t had symptoms in quite some time and mostly stays at home. He’s a photographer, but the pandemic has hurt business.



“I don’t see any return to normal until they get a vaccine,” he said



Photo by Keith Turrill



Health care workers from Great River Health System are shown on Wednesday at the drive-thru COVID-19 testing clinic in West Burlington.

Coronavirus Testing Moves Forward in Des Moines County

By Beacon Staff



As cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Iowa climbed to 18,792 on Friday, the count in Des Moines continues to confuse locals.



On Thursday (May 28), the reported cases of COVID-19 in Des Moines County rose to 61, then dropped to 59 a day later, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health. That number rebounded back to 62 later Friday night (May 29), and remained there as of early Saturday morning (May 30).



Earlier in the month, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said the fluctuation in confirmed positive COVID-19 cases was due to reporting errors. She said. confirmed positive cases in the city of Des Moines were mistakenly attributed to Des Moines County.



The Iowa Department of Public Health could not be reached on Friday for further comment on the reporting discrepancies.



COVID-19 Openings And Cancellations



In Burlington, city officials announced Friday (May 29) that playgrounds and skate parks will reopen June 1, while restrooms will open on June 5. Drinking fountains remain closed, but basketball, tennis courts, and frisbee golf are still open to the public.



Dankwardt Park Pool will remain closed, while Flint Hills Golf Course is now open. Summer camps will begin on June 8, and the Burlington Regional RecPlex will open for tournaments on June 1.



The Downtown 5&amp;V Cinema (which is outside) will return for its annual summer season starting on June 6 with a screening of “Frozen II.”



The Burlington Municipal Band has canceled all summer concerts in Crapo Park. The Lee County Fair will be open only to junior 4-H children.



The Des Moines County Fair will go on as originally planned, however, that could still change. Fair officials updated the fair’s status via Facebook Thursday.



“We are proceeding as normal with camping registration and set-up of the campgrounds during fair at this time. Should public health and safety guidelines change we reserve the right to make changes to ensure the safety of all those involved,” the post reads.



Though campers will be welcome, events for the fair are being streamlined to consist of 4-H and FFA livestock events and exhibits. Food vendors will likely still be part of the fair as well, though a final decision won't be made until June 20. Fair organizers are currently exploring safe ways for exhibitors to auction their livestock off after the fair.

Iowa Coronavirus Cases Climbing With More Testing, Des Moines County Cases Yo-Yo

By Beacon Staff



Organizers of a vigil to honor the life of Minneapolis, Minn., resident George Floyd — which is also being dubbed as a Protest Against Racism — will begin at 6 p.m. on Tuesday in front of the Burlington Police Department.



Floyd was allegedly murdered by a Minneapolis police officer on Memorial Day, May 25. A criminal complaint against former Minneapolis police officer, Derek Chauvin, shows that George Floyd was "non-responsive" for nearly three minutes before Chauvin took his knee off his neck during an arrest.



Chauvin has been charged with third-degree murder.



Organizers are stressing that this will be a peaceful vigil. Signs and candles are welcome. After taking a knee in front of the police department, attendees will be invited to march down to the riverfront for a rally protest.



“Please wear a BLACK shirt and bring appropriate signs and candles to light at the riverfront to honor the lives lost! We want this to be a civil protest to spread our message! Violence, obstruction, and vandalism will not be tolerated,” event organizer and Burlington resident Tenyshia Chalupa said in a Facebook post promoting the event.



The Beacon has reached out to Chalupa for further comment.



Those interested in speaking at the protest are encouraged to contact Chalupa on her Facebook page.



The three officers who held Floyd down while Chauvin pressed his knee to Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes have been fired. The story instantly spread when a video of the incident showing Floyd pleading for air went viral.



Since then, protests and riots have erupted across the nation.



Photo courtesy of John Autey/St. Paul Pioneer Press



A man stands atop his car holding a photo of George Floyd as people gather Thursday in Minneapolis to remember and protest his death.

Vigil and Protest in Honor of George Floyd To Be Held in Front of BPD Tuesday Night

Jeff Abell: Owner and general manager.



William Smith: Community editor



Joy Mack: Photographer/videographer



Anthony Dewitt: Photographer



Email: burlingtonbeacon@gmail.com

The Burlington Beacon Staff:

Story and photos by William Smith



Due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, there was no official Memorial Day service on Monday in Burlington and West Burlington.



However, people still visited the Mississippi Valley Veterans Memorial in West Burlington, eager to pay tribute to America’s fallen heroes.



The Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard arrived before the light crowd, working out a truncated ceremony on the spot. The crowd stood at a distance, clustered into small groups of those who arrived together.



Dressed in full uniform, Burlington veteran Mike McCullough read a short speech from the podium, highlighting the importance and origin of Memorial Day. Behind him, black stone slabs etched with the names of the local fallen glinted in the sunlight.



Burlington honor guard member Curt Daughters and Larry Shacklett folded the American flag 13 times. Fellow honor guard member Jim Holtkamp stood beside them and explained the significance of each fold.



Honor guard member Dennis Brobston played taps on his trumpet under the memorial arch, his fellow veterans standing solemnly, holding their rifles in front of them.



The honor guard then stood side-by-side as McCullough saluted them, pointing their rifles at the sky. Empty shells fell to the ground with every rifle crack, a traditional salute to their fallen brothers and sisters.



Ten minutes after it began, the service ended, and the veterans gingerly bent down to collect their spent shells — another Memorial Day tradition of politeness and respect.



Michael Knotts of West Burlington visited the memorial Monday morning to find his father’s name on the stone tablets. Knotts served in the U.S. Navy from 1969 to 1972. His grandfather also served — as did his uncle, a cousin, and other family members.



“I like to come out here every once in a while,” Michael Knotts said.



The temperature rising with every minute, the veterans cheerily chatted with the crowd and each other then went about their way. They will be back next year, same day, same time.

Remembering The Fallen

By Beacon Staff



An Argyle man who was reported missing earlier in the week was found dead this morning (May 23) after falling from a height of 45 to 50 feet, according to authorities.



Jacob “Jake” Pezley of Argyle was discovered near a railroad bridge in Argyle after several days of searching by family, neighbors, friends, and law enforcement.



“Mr. Pezley was a very well known Lee County resident and it was very apparent from the number of people who came out this morning to do a ground search for him,” Lee County Sheriff Stacy Weber said in a press release.



Pezley was last seen in the Argyle area on May 18 and was driving a white 2003 Pontiac Vibe. The vehicle was found near a railroad crossing in the Argyle area on Belfast Road, not far from his residence.



No further details have been released. The subsequent death investigation will be conducted by the Lee County Sheriff's Criminal Investigations Division with the assistance of the Lee County Medical Investigator.



“We wanted to thank the many volunteers who came out this morning and those who have looked tirelessly for Mr. Pezley. His family appreciated it greatly, as did your sheriff,” Weber said.



The Lee County Emergency Management, Lee County Ambulance Service, Iowa State Patrol, Farmington Fire and Rescue, Des Moines Township Fire and Rescue, Donnellson, and West Point Police Departments, Iowa Department of Transportation, BNSF Police Department and the Lee County Reserve Unit assisted in the search.

Argyle Man Found Dead Near Railroad Crossing

By Beacon Staff



West Liberty Foods has reported eight positive cases of COVID-19 at its meatpacking plant in Mount Pleasant.



The company reported two of those cases Wednesday, May 20, then confirmed another six cases Friday, May 22.



West Liberty Food has been providing regular updates on the COVID-19 count in all its facilities via Facebook since the end of April. The company said anyone at the Mount Pleasant plant who is at an elevated risk has been notified.



Henry County currently has 57 cases of COVID-19, while Des Moines County has reported 56 cases.



A testing site for Des Moines County is opening Wednesday (May 27) at the county fairgrounds (on the Southeastern Community College campus). The entrance is on Gear Avenue. Appointments must be made in advance through&nbsp;<a href="http://www.testiowa.gov/?fbclid=IwAR0sclGxlcXtwe-sCZbrXWtUjLb_mq9bkWU1FICw1PZN7bsJwRe18iqrdF4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.testiowa.gov</a>&nbsp;beginning Tuesday (May 26).



Saturday marked the second time in three days that Iowa has recorded a daily high in deaths due to COVID-19.



The Iowa Department of Public Health reported 26 more deaths Saturday, topping Thursday’s previous high by five.



The state’s total coronavirus death count climbed to 90 for the week and now sits at 447.

Coronavirus confirmed at West Liberty Foods In Mount Pleasant

By Beacon Staff



West Burlington’s annual Independence Day celebration has been canceled due to concerns regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.



But the fireworks will go on. City councilman and event chairperson Andy Crowner made the announcement Thursday morning (May 21) in a press release.



“We feel it is important that at this time, when our city and our nation needs to pull together, that we recognize the fight that formed this great independent nation so very long ago,” Crowner said in the release.



The city of West Burlington is planning on having a fireworks show to celebrate the holiday.



“We are still working out some details, but we are planning on having the show in an area where it is easy to see from a large number of vehicles to provide for social distancing. Final details will be announced when they are available,” Crowner said.



Additional celebration events are being discussed, such as a live-stream of speakers from the city hall. The annual raffle to fund the fireworks may still happen as well. If it does, tickets will be purchased online.

West Burlington Fourth Of July Celebration Canceled, Fireworks Still Will Take Place

Game review by William Smith



If I reviewed every Batman game, I wouldn’t have time to write anything else.



There are literally dozens to choose from, ranging in quality from laughably horrible to the best experiences gaming has to offer — kind of like the movies.



So I’ve narrowed it down to three, starting with the best.



“Batman: The Video Game” (Nintendo Entertainment System, 1990)



Unfortunately, the best Batman game is the most difficult. We’re talking 1980s Nintendo hard. Throw your controller at the screen “Battletoads” hard.



Like most kids, I rented it from my local video store. Then I died, over and over again, unable to reach the second level. I never played it again —until last week. I’m no better a gamer than I was 30 years ago, and was forced to turn the rewind/slow-motion function on in my emulator to stand a chance.



It was only through blatant cheating I discovered how tight the controls are. How ingenious the level design is. How superior art design can trump ancient technology.



The movie tie-in is limited here, especially since Batman wears his traditional blue suit rather than the black Michael Keaton version. This feels like a fresh Batman story told through kinetic action rather than words.



If you want another great Batman game in this style, try the Sega Genesis version. It’s a completely different game with similar mechanics, and nearly as good.



“Batman Returns” (Super Nintendo, 1993)



Much easier, much prettier, and much longer than the Nintendo original, this direct film tie-in to “Batman Returns” is a rarity — a one player beat-em-up that never gets boring.



The Super Nintendo really flexes its muscle with lavish graphics and meticulous detail, even allowing the player to smash store windows by throwing baddies into the background.



The challenge feels much more balanced here, though I was never quite able to finish the game in my early teenage years. It was so fun, I kept renting it anyway.



If anything, “Batman Returns” is just a bit too lengthy, especially without the modern convenience of saving your game. The only way to take a break back in the 90s was to pause the game for hours at a time, which inevitably ended in parental chiding about burning images into the TV screen.



“Batman” (Arcade, 1990)



Not a bad game by arcade platforming standards, but a hollow shell compared to the two games above.



It’s still a lot better than the “Superman” arcade game and is the only game on the list that faithfully recreates the original Michael Keaton “Batman” film. Nearly scene-by-scene, surprisingly enough.



That means you throw Jack Nicholson into a vat of green acid at the beginning of the game to turn him into the Joker, then throw him off the clock tower to his doom at the end.



Ironically enough, Joker’s death in the arcade game is actually more dramatic than the film, portraying his final fall in a detailed, Hans Gruber from “Die Hard” fashion. It makes the 20 minutes that come before more than worth it.

Critiquing The Batman

By Beacon Staff



A Burlington man was arrested on a federal warrant for dealing narcotics Thursday (May 21), following an investigation by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force that is still ongoing.



Adam Brent Branton, 39, is charged with possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, and was also arrested on a federal warrant for possession of a firearm by a felon.



A number of police units coordinated to execute a search warrant at 313 South Sixth St., including the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force, the Iowa Department of Narcotics Enforcement, the Burlington Police Department and the Des Moines County Tactical Response Unit.



According to Burlington Police Lt. Wayne Thomson, Branton is being held on pending a court appearance, and additional arrests are expected.

Federal Warrants Lead To Burlington Drug Arrest

By Beacon Staff



More than 250-yard signs featuring the faces of Burlington High School’s 2020 graduates lined the lawn outside the school Thursday, May 21, stretching for over a quarter of a mile.



School staff, board members, and volunteers stood behind the signs for three hours, waving and congratulating the seniors as they circled the school. The students will be able to take the signs home later this evening.



That’s just the beginning of the celebrations planned for BHS’s seniors. A virtual graduation commencement will air at 3 p.m. May 31, and another graduation celebration is being tentatively scheduled for July.



Photo courtesy of Brandi Coleman: Burlington High School senior Kira Harris (Photo 1) stands next to a sign honoring her as a 2020 graduate.

Honoring 2020 Graduates

By Beacon Staff



For the first time since the worldwide pandemic forced the Burlington Public Library to close its doors and eliminate curbside service, locals can once again check out physical items.



While the library building itself isn’t open for business quite yet, curbside checkout returned today, May 19.



Checking out materials will require a modicum of forethought, which means it is too late to order anything for pickup today. But there’s still time for an order for Wednesday.



The Curbside Library will run from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and orders for materials must be placed by 5 p.m. the day before making the pick-up.



Library staff has been pulling and prepping materials non-stop, measuring out socially safe spaces just outside the entrance.



Materials include books, music, movies, and other items. All digital services will continue as they have for the past couple of months.



The summer reading program begins June 1, and the library now offers the option to research old editions of newspapers through an archive.



The digital scans of older editions appear much as they do in microfiche form, but patrons no longer need to be inside the building to access the service.



To access the archive, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbpia.ent.sirsi.net%2Fclient%2Fen_US%2Fdefault%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1LzYjLEkMLw4Bdh1DRvToGdTTyObCexy7hDVMWqo662ZHOnnPewdQV9J8&amp;h=AT1iDt3h8htV120QHo5OCyk803CwvjBRRmi-_oW_H3mJEbONwJEBzmlzgYnqzdw6ipwHgNigRM4Wc5u-pGZYh15rg_fUWGF7uWq51j4Gd4AayswXlpqitXhfdJj0II3N1bRJ9cCOi-gpqx8MbhUlkxmDYK--9c_B0Xm2EGxALsOP2SK_Qh6ofc2u-cqHvvzZssDvm8lVGksBXAXLbb5ygNLBfKGuOWiQUXnj-S2ftqkXue24N1DFtprxPKaEdIVPII-qWYIKN-6GFuccUwcJVeQB6vMtZnEZS4LPBbEaXYSs4M91sdBamAE7ZER1GAFGg_22aURyjvLJE4QQl5C0-nlX_1v6b2-NP65JCb77-oHW3X9cWW2YaGqqNIHQJu0wLm8KotFSfak9UqK-2ERPvdnklcpCbptPEMtQiEErX9QIuBprEOXHR-7LRvuhjFvbS8M_pqwAyFGVsOhlEgA0NFh-Nd3nhwuhczUgavCsYsYEXPNg8jovdyJJ5B44TqMoGX5PibCbJnaO98_vNuHpsD5mWV257KHi6S42EKWoGddDvJg83OcUMT8s1UTbvaleMPalwy9DQdqu7MqJNbh-7kJBZU1VQRC43vVqk4Z9xaN6vL00tDObZ5NTEVfc-yFWaJZvAZ6IjN5FaY29OpAngvA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://bpia.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/default/</a>&nbsp;This short video will allow you to log in and navigate Newspaper Archives:&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/dcolzNlrDaY?fbclid=IwAR1LedZv98Zioqe4SbqDGvcnb_I_SEP9-SkV8mLtZNq1CbxFJg5qv9FCsO8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://youtu.be/dcolzNlrDaY</a>



You can sign up for a library card here:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/u7jyung?fbclid=IwAR270Yoj0LwcG5wcumaAw518WgcobT79kyZmn7ebF8TVjitJPppzWFf7NjM" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://tinyurl.com/u7jyung</a>



Photo courtesy of the Burlington Public Library

Library Now Offering Curbside Services

By Beacon Staff



Unlike the graduating classes that went before them, the seniors of 2020 were robbed of their graduation glory by a worldwide pandemic.



That’s life, and the seniors get it. Safety comes first, and once school was canceled for the rest of the year, they figured traditional graduation ceremonies might be delayed or canceled. However, they didn’t expect to be handed their diplomas while dropping off their school laptops.



Twin siblings Spencer and Sidney Ellsworth, both 18, didn’t realize they had received their diplomas until their mother, Mary Hofmann, discovered them with other paperwork they had picked up from the school last week.



“It was kind of lame,” Spencer said.



Their mother had a stronger reaction.



“I missed their big moment,” she said. “I wish the principal could have handed them their diplomas.”



The twins’ stepbrother, Brandon Hofmann, also a 2020 graduate, felt just as deflated. BHS has a virtual commencement planned for May 31, as well as some form of an in-person ceremony in July. The district announced the plans on the school Facebook page Tuesday, May 19.



Brandon recently joined the Iowa Army National Guard, and ships out at the end of the summer for basic training. He and his two siblings will still get to attend prom in late June, as well as the proposed July event if it happens.



“This (virtual commencement) is not intended to replace a formal ceremony but rather to provide each student recognition on that date since, under current circumstances, schools are unable to hold their traditional ceremonies. BCSD is still hopeful that a ceremony at Bracewell Stadium can be held in July if restrictions are lifted. A specific date has not yet been selected due to a high level of uncertainty,” reads the BHS Facebook page.



Mary Hofmann has been in constant contact with other parents and the school board, trying to come up with a plan. Drive-through graduations, personal visits from the principal, and staggered commencements that limit the number of people in the building at the same time are just a few options.



“There are ways to do it,” she said.



BHS is also planning to festoon the school grounds with yard signs featuring photos of the graduating seniors.



The contrast between BHS’s plans and West Burlington High School is as stark as the divide that runs down the Hofmann family’s street — at least in the amount of detail provided. Located on the edge of West Burlington, one side of the street falls under West Burlington jurisdiction. The Hofmans fall on the Burlington side of the narrow lane.



West Burlington’s first graduation option has been set for June 20. If that doesn’t work, a postponement date has been set for July 25. A virtual commencement will be held in August if that falls through.



“We believe that holding an in-person ceremony is very important to our school community and we will strive to make that happen, even if in a limited (restricted) guest capacity,” West Burlington High School Principal Bruce Snodgrass said in a letter sent to parents and students.



Every school is handling graduation differently. Notre Dame, which has a small graduating class, is recognizing seniors at a 10:30 a.m. Baccalaureate Mass this Sunday, May 24, online. Each senior also has recorded personal videos that have been airing on Notre Dame school’s Facebook page.



Mediapolis is planning on having an in-person graduation ceremony at 10 a.m. on July 11. Danville High School has yet to publicly announce their plans.



Burlington’s virtual graduation ceremony will be live-streamed and broadcast on the district’s Mediacom channel. The ceremony will consist of videos from speakers, recordings of previous music performances, and slides of students.



Each student will be allotted two slides, a formal one containing their picture and a list of their accomplishments and extracurricular activities, and an informal one displaying a collage of senior-submitted photos.



Life moves fast for a teenager. The three siblings are bored and cooped-up, their social contact limited to their workplaces. All three are essential workers in Burlington, and that weighs heavy on Hofmann’s mind.



She wants them to have some kind of social release that emulates that final walk as a high school student. A chance for recognition, and a chance for the 2020 seniors to bid farewell to their classmates.



“We’ll have a party here,” she said, noting that all safety precautions would be followed.



Photo by Anthony Dewitt



Spencer Ellsworth, left, his twin sister Sidney Ellsworth, in the middle, and their stepbrother Brandon Hofmann, right, are shown in their caps and gowns. 



Area high schools are handing graduation differently due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, and seniors have been forced to cope with being honored in a less traditional way.

Three BHS Siblings Hoping For More Than Virtual Commencement May Get Their Graduation Wish Afterall

Game Review by William Smith



My adoration for Michael Jackson’s music wasn’t uncommon. His fourth album, “Dangerous,” was the first CD I ever purchased. “Thriller,” still the best-selling album worldwide at 66 million copies, was my second.



I even purchased the incomparable feature-length music video “Moonwalker” on VHS, which the arcade and Sega Genesis are based on.



Ironically enough, working arcade versions of the Moonwalker arcade game aren’t nearly as common. Developed by Sega, the game’s arcade board ran on the company’s suicide battery, which rendered the game unplayable at the end of its lifespan.



Nothing truly dies in the digital age.



A typical beat-em-up with an a-typical, isometric perspective, the laughable lunacy that defined the music video is faithfully adapted here, to a disturbing degree. Jackson shoots blue lightning from his hands like a Sith Lord — your main means of attack. Reach a certain point in the game’s five, beautifully rendered (if annoyingly brief) levels, and he turns into a killer robot.



He later transforms into a futuristic (by 1980s standards) prototype sports car. Then a silver spaceship.



If you have a special attack stored up, Jackson forces all the on-screen baddies to dance with him in unison, causing them to explode. It’s usually to the strains of “Bad,” but there are some earlier songs in there too.



Like the majority of the gorgeous beat-em-ups that populated arcades at the time, the game ends 20 minutes after it starts. Mr. Big, portrayed by a cartoonishly top-knotted Joe Pesci, is finally vanquished.



It’s a blast while it lasts, lacking the challenge of a continuous system that would erase the player’s progress. Once you die, just pump in a few more quarters to pick up right where Michael and his chimpanzee Bubbles (who’s in the home version as well) left off. Each death replenishes your dance attack, layering the game with a macabre subtext that certainly wasn’t intended. Those moves are too slick not to die for.



Thanks to the modern conventions of the MAME arcade emulator, it doesn't cost anything to play now. And if that makes you feel guilty, just remember the arcade machine was designed with a timed kill switch, much like Jackson’s legacy.

Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker (Arcade, 1990)

By Beacon Staff



The Burlington Civic Music program is returning for its 91st season in September, bringing 10 diverse music performances to Memorial Auditorium and the Capitol Theater.



According to executive director Barbara McRoberts, eight of those shows will be at the auditorium, while the other two will take place at the Capitol Theater in downtown Burlington. The shows are scheduled through the end of 2020 and into 2021.



To ensure current seats or best seating at Memorial Auditorium, Burlington Civic Music is encouraging previous and new season subscribers to order their tickets now for the 2020-2021 season.



Prices for reserved season seats at the auditorium are $130 for the main floor, $115 for the first balcony, $115 for the second balcony, and $20 for students. The cost includes all 10 shows. Tickets for the two Capitol Theater shows can be purchases separately and are $20 for each show.



To order season tickets or for more information, call 319-752-0336 or email BurlingtonCivicMusic@gmail.com.



All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.



• Thursday, Sept. 17: Shaun Johnson Big Band and Tonic Sol-fa. Last seen and heard in Burlington in 1997, Shaun Johnson and Tonic Sol-fa are described as a “five-man swinging sensation.” His big-band experience is rare for traditional pop, fusing a big band spirit with an inventive edge. • Friday, Oct. 9: Gentri — The Gentlemen Trio. Gentri delivers a signature sound described as “cinematic pop.” That means arrangements with lush orchestrations and rich, dynamic three-part harmonies, combining classic hits with original songs. • Tuesday, Nov. 3: Dhamaal Dancers and Singers. This new show pays homage to the rich culture and traditions of India passed down through generations. Drawing on mythology, traditional dance, and a variety of Indian musical styles, these legendary dances tantalize senses with acrobatic flair and world-class music. • Saturday, Dec. 19: A Country Christmas With David Kroll. Civic Music welcomes David Kroll to the concert series as a vocalist, songwriter, and bandleader. Sporting a musical career that began in Burlington as a 16-year-old, Kroll moved to Nashville in 2007. A Burlington resident once again, his Country Christmas show has become an area favorite. Special guest Bethany Shane will join him. • Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021: Sultans of String. Riding a wave of international success, this Canadian string super-group combines acoustic strings with electronic wizardry. Their sonic tapestry of Spanish flamenco, Arabic folk, Cuban rhythms, and gypsy-jazz fill the hall. This performance will take place at the Burlington Capitol Theater. • Monday, Feb. 8, 2021: “Wings” Dublin Irish Dance. Dazzling dance, theatrical performances, and the vibrant emotion of Celtic music. These world champion dancers and performers from Riverdance present a captivating portrayal of Irish culture. • Thursday, March 25, 2021: Catapult: Magic Shadows. Dancers transform their bodies into seemingly impossible shapes from the world around us. • Thursday, April 22, 2021: FLY Dance Company: The Gentlemen of Hip-Hop. Originally an experiment combining hip-hop movement with classical music by Antonio Vivaldi, the company crosses street dance with classical choreographic principles. Known for their high-energy performances, clever staging, and clean-cut artistry designed to cross all audience boundaries, FLY has trained and inspired a generation of dance students. • Monday, May 3, 2021; Chicago Harp Quartet. A leading harp ensemble in the U.S., Chicago Harp Quartet has played in Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Ravinia Festival. • Saturday, May 15: The Texas Tenors. These classically trained and versatile tenors have become classic performers.



Besides their evening performances, five of the season’s artists will provide free hour-long student concerts on the same day as their shows. Adults must be accompanied by a student to attend.



All student concerts begin at 1 p.m. at the venues of their evening performances. This season’s student concerts are Shaun Johnson and Tonic Sol-fa, Gentri – The Gentlemen Trio, Sultans of String, Catapult: Magic Shadows, and FLY Dance Company.

Civic Music Bringing 10 Diverse Different Concerts to Burlington

By Beacon Staff



Two West Burlington men were arrested Tuesday for causing more than $10,000 worth of damage to 30 vehicles in the South Hill area of Burlington.



Jeremy Lee Hand, 20, and Xavier Zane Sourwine, 18, are charged with first-degree criminal mischief and are being held at the Des Moines County Correctional Center in Burlington on $25,000 bond pending a court appearance.



Lt. Wayne Thomson, who issued a press release Tuesday afternoon, did not specify the nature of the damage to the vehicles. Several complaints from residents in the area on April 19 led to an investigation by the Burlington Police Department and the eventual arrests.

West Burlington Men Damage 30 Burlington Vehicles, Held on $25,000 Bond

By Sandy Dockendorff and William Smith



Des Moines County’s sudden drop in COVID-19 cases Friday has been attributed to a reporting error by the Iowa State Health Department.



Seven cases originally coded to Des Moines County were supposed to be coded to the city of Des Moines in Polk County. Friday’s Des Moines County COVID-19 cases were adjusted from 46 to 39 to reflect the error correction.



But questions about which cases were misreported, and when those cases were reported, have yet to be answered.



The Des Moines County Health Department confirmed the reporting error Friday, but could not clarify if the incorrectly coded cases were reported in the past week, or earlier than that. The county’s COVID-19 cases increased from 31 at the beginning of last week to 46 on Thursday, before being corrected to 39 Friday.



Without further detail about the timing, it is unknown if Des Moines County saw a spike of 15 cases in the past week, or just eight. The Des Moines County Health Department did note on Friday that the situation in Des Moines County is very stable.



Meanwhile, a coronavirus outbreak of 22 people at a Wapello nursing home in Louisa County was confirmed Friday.



Wapello Specialty Care announced Friday that 10 residents of the facility have contracted COVID-19, as well as 12 employees. Identities of the patients won’t be released, but family members have been notified, as well as staff and residents.



“We have been and will continue to screen all staff at the beginning and end of their shift for signs and symptoms of COVID-19,” facility administrators said in a press release on Friday.



A case of Pediatric Multi-system Inflammatory Syndrome was also reported in eastern Iowa Friday night by the Polk County Pediatric Medical Collaborative — the first in Iowa.



The syndrome is possibly connected to COVID-19, and an outbreak in New York has resulted in over 100 cases and at least three child deaths.



In addition to inflammation, symptoms include rash, abdominal pain, and vomiting.



Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds addressed the inflammatory syndrome during her Friday morning press conference, saying no cases had yet been identified. That was several hours before the first case was reported later that night.



Overall, Iowa hospitalizations for COVID-19 have decreased in the past week. The Iowa Department of Health reported the fewest patients on ventilators Friday than at any time in the past two-and-a-half weeks. Half as many people were hospitalized between Thursday and Friday then from the previous 24-hour reporting period.



Coronavirus case numbers have not been updated by the health department as of Saturday morning. According to Friday’s numbers, 374 new cases were reported, 18 more have died, and 330 have recovered.

Seven COVID-19 Cases Accidentally Attributed To Des Moines County; Nursing Home Outbreak Reported in Wapello

By Beacon Staff



The local owners and managers of the Burlington Trailways motorcoach company are in Washington D.C. right now (May 13), driving around the nation’s capital with an urgent plea for help.



More than 1,000 bus drivers from 47 states drove across the country to join the “Motorcoach Rolling for Awareness.” That comes out to about nine miles of circling buses, participating in a mobile rally organized by the American Bus Association and the United Motorcoach Association.



They are seeking $15 billion in government assistance to stay afloat during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, along with modifications to programs to support small businesses and their payrolls.



About 90 percent of bus operations throughout the country are small and family-owned (including the one in Burlington), and unlike airlines and cruise lines, those businesses were not singled out for financial assistance in the most recent coronavirus aid package.



Burlington Trailways executive assistant Nicole Fritz, president Ron Moore, executive vice president Matt Moore, and general manager Mark Moore arrived in Washington D.C. this morning and live-streamed the event on the company’s Facebook page.



The motorcoach industry employs 100,000 employees, and according to a press release, “do everything from evacuating victims of hurricanes and wildfires to transporting thousands of America’s military troops all around the nation.”



Though the motorcoach industry is comprised mostly of small businesses, their combined size is massive. Nearly 600 million motorcoach trips occur in the US each year, 100 million fewer than the domestic airline industry.

Burlington Trailways Owner Joins Washington D.C. Rally Asking for $15 Billion In Industry Aid

By Beacon Staff



Burlington is slowly chugging back to life, shimmying with the fits and starts of an economy primed by loosening restrictions.



That means in-person religious services are back in session, at least for one local entity.



Sporting the slogan “Hope Is Not Canceled,” the Burlington Salvation Army is holding its first in-person church service since Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds put the state on partial lockdown to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).



The service is scheduled for 10 a.m. Sunday (May 17) at the Salvation Army Chapel inside the new headquarters building. Social distancing rules will apply. Those who feel ill are asked to stay home and live stream the service instead. Parishioners are asked to bring their Bible, even if it’s a digital phone version, to avoid sharing with others.



The Art Center



A few days later, The Art Center on Jefferson Street in Burlington will open its doors and host its first art exhibit since the partial lockdown — a showcase of paintings by Wisconsin artist “Oil Painter Annie.” The Art Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. next Saturday, May 23.



The exhibit, titled “Earthly Dreams and Tactile Skies,” will go up May 19 and stay on display through the end of the month. Social distancing rules apply, and patrons are encouraged to wear masks inside the building.



Other aspects of local life are stirring more slowly and uncertainly, or in some cases, not at all.



Des Moines County Courthouse



The Des Moines County Courthouse remains closed to the public, though services are available by appointment, via phone, or online. Reynolds has not issued guidance on when courthouses may reopen. In-person hearings at the courthouse in downtown Burlington are expected to resume in June, with trials to return in mid-July.



The Social Security office also remains closed for face-to-face appointments but can be contacted via phone or email.



Burlington Public Library



The Burlington Public Library remains open digitally, but for now, there is no set date for the building to open the public.



In a statement issued Wednesday, library officials said they are working toward that reopening.



“As the state begins a reopening process, your Burlington Public Library staff is retrofitting our spaces to meet social distancing guidelines, ensuring we have the necessary protective equipment, sanitizing supplies, updating procedures in place for your protection, and preparing new low- and no-contact service models,” the statement reads.



County Fair



As of now, the Des Moines County Fair, as well as the Lee County Fair, are still on track for mid-summer. Applications for fair queen contestants are already being accepted for both fairs.



But as fair organizers noted, that could change quickly, depending on guidance from the state. The governor said she has yet to decide county fairs or the Iowa State Fair.



Great River Medical Center



Though Great River Medical Center in West Burlington never fully closed, other aspects of hospital services that were suspended will resume this weekend. That includes outpatient occupational, physical and speech therapy, mammography, and DEXA bone-density screening. Elective surgeries and dentist appointments were allowed starting three weeks ago.



“Our plan is to reopen services slowly,” said GRMC Chief of Clinical Operations Teresa Colgan. “Following CDC and Iowa Department of Public Health guidelines, we will maintain social distancing by staggering appointments to reduce the number of patients in waiting rooms, and seating will be at least six feet apart.”



Masks are required.



IAAAP Memorial Day Service



The annual military service to honor America’s fallen veterans at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant has been canceled due to the pandemic, though plant officials are offering an alternative to the service.



Lt. Colonel Eric J. Schilling will be available to meet with families for a moment of remembrance on Thursday, May 21, anytime between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Families who wish to join Schilling at IAAAP’s Eagle Park Memorial, located just inside Gate 4 in Middletown, are asked to RSVP to (319) 753-7001 by Tuesday, May 19.



Participating families will be required to adhere to all COVID-19 precautions currently in place at IAAAP. That includes wearing cloth face masks/coverings, complying with visitor temperature checks, and practicing social distancing.



The Mall



Westland Mall in West Burlington was allowed to re-open last Friday, but few businesses inside were ready to follow suit that same weekend.



That has changed over the past week, and even more, businesses are expected to reopen in the mall over the next week. That includes mall anchor store Marshall’s, which is expected to reopen Monday, May 18.



The theater will not reopen, and at this time, Gov. Reynolds has not provided a date as to when theaters will be allowed to show movies again. A list of mall openings, which is constantly in flux, is available on the Westland Mall Facebook page.



Patrons are encouraged to wear a mask, and mall-walking is still suspended.



Pzazz Entertainment Complex



Per the governor’s orders, casinos, bars (that don’t serve food), arcades, and other amusements will stay closed, including Catfish Bend Casino and FunCity.



Local Restaurants



Though some Des Moines County restaurants will be opening their dining areas to 50 percent capacity this week, several with smaller dining areas will not. That includes downtown eateries such as La Tavola, Napoli’s, and Orange Ember, all of which will offer food remotely. Bent River Brewing will also keep its dining area closed.



Closures and reopenings for locals restaurants shift daily, and most establishments provide updates on their respective Facebook pages.



Beacon File Photo



Westland Mall in West Burlington is shown on April 12 during a drive-and-park Easter service.

"Hope Is Not Canceled” Businesses, Organizations Reopen With An Eye Toward Safety

Column by William Smith



Before Jon Billups became mayor and I ascended to City Editor of The Burlington Beacon, we worked together at Burlington’s oldest newspaper.



Billups was the maniacally positive circulation manager, I was a shy but steady reporter, and our desks were nowhere near each other. But he frequently found occasion to chat me up, as he did with everyone in the building.



Those brief conversations usually revolved around video games.



I wrote a weekly video game column for the newspaper for more than 13 years, and Billups would occasionally stop by the desk for general advice. Asking questions like, “Should I put a PlayStation 3 or an Xbox 360 in my boat cabin?”



It wasn’t that unusual. Just as most moviegoers aren’t hardcore cinephiles (nor should they be), most past or current gamers are everyday folks with a passing interest in a time-consuming hobby.



After writing a review for the recently reissued 1983 LaserDisc arcade game “Dragon’s Lair,” Billups approached me with a confession.



He was a hardcore “Dragon’s Lair” player back in ‘83.



I was floored. This was a much bigger commitment than buying a used PlayStation 3 for the occasional game of Madden football.



Consisting entirely of lush cartoon animation by Don Bluth (of “Sleeping Beauty” and “The Secret of NIMH" fame) the game was a revelation for the “Pac-Man” era of gaming, or so I’ve read. I was 3-years-old at the time.



It’s also damn difficult — nearly impossible for a softened, post-Atari gamer like me. I muddled my way along, abusing modern conventions like on-screen prompts and unlimited continues to survive. To this day, it’s one of the trippiest, most breathtaking pieces of visual media I’ve encountered.



The sequel not so much. But it’s still a fun romp.



Billups downloaded “Dragon’s Lair” on his phone after reading my review, presumably kicking much more ass at it than I. Considering every continues cost him 50 cents a pop back in ‘83 (twice the price of most arcade games at the time), he had no choice but to hone his teenage skills.



A few months later, former city councilwoman Annie Wilson approached me with her own confession. She’s a longtime fan of the “Fallout” video game series, a much more modern mix of first-person-shooting and role-playing set in a nuclear ravaged America.



Once again, I was pleasantly stunned. I’ve been reviewing “Fallout” games for more than a decade.



I thought these all-encompassing experiences were mostly for nerdy neck-beards like me, rather than local politicians who frequent the headline. I had been blinded by cynicism.



It’s been far too long since I’ve regularly written about video games, and it would be a mistake to assume the hobby revolves only around the newest releases. Nearly everyone has a favorite arcade or console game that briefly consumed them over the past 30 years, from Nintendo to PlayStation.



Starting Saturday, The Burlington Beacon’s website will feature a fresh, capsule-size review of a classic video game, every day. I possess a library of more than 1,200 retro games to choose from, minus the stinkers that wasted your parent’s money.



We’ll run the first seven-game reviews concurrently on our Facebook page. Both are free to access, but I’m not anxious to clutter our Facebook news coverage beyond the first week.



I’ve shamelessly loaded the deck this first week with arcade adaptations of classic popcorn films that speak to my generation – “Hook,” “Willow,” “Batman,” “Robocop,” “Aliens,” and the supremely odd, “Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker,” to name most of them.



Somewhere, buried deep inside your forgotten memories, likely resides a seasoned arcade cask bursting with similar digital nostalgia. I’m going to do my best to dig it out, no matter how many years it takes.

Video Game Confessions Of The Burlington City Council

By Jeff Abell



Anyone who has met Kali Eastin of Burlington knows her optimism and enthusiasm are infectious. Through her business, she has changed minds and opened hearts by helping people embrace a positive body image.



Eastin, who owns Kalioke Movement Lounge, preaches the gospel of positivity through fitness that feeds the mind, body, and spirit. Eastin is no stranger to having a negative body image, a situation faced by many. It is something she has worked hard to overcome and it has become her mission to help others do the same.



"There is no one perfect size. We all have completely different bodies which makes us all beautiful," Eastin said. "Learning to love your body can be a difficult journey, but people need to know they can get there. Our goal is to put out a message of body acceptance."



The Kalioke Movement Lounge was born out of a desire to provide people an alternative to a singular-focused fitness approach to health. Eastin set out to build a community that could act as a support network beyond the limits of a typical gym.



"A lot of what I do here is to build a community of people, a support network for people to maintain wellness. Physical exercise is only one part of being healthy," Eastin said, adding mental and spiritual health are as important as physical exercise to a person's overall health.



Her studio's name reflects Eastin's love of singing (including Karaoke) and the importance of movement to wellness. The "lounge" part of the name represents the communal, relaxed atmosphere of her Burlington studio.



"Movement is so important to our overall health. We want to provide a relaxed, lighthearted environment free of body shame or guilt," she said. "The best part about it, though, isn't the physical benefits of movement. but the sense of community."



Eastin offers Pound fitness as part of her wellness program. Pound fitness is a combination of cardio and weight training exercise that includes some of the rhythmic techniques used in pilates. Colorful, light-weight drumsticks add an element of fun while helping exercisers count out the length of time they hold certain positions. Her studio also offers yoga, trauma-informed care, and functional training classes.



Through her studio at 2825 Mount Pleasant St., Eastin has created a trauma-informed space to discover and explore joy in movement. In doing so, she has created a community full of trust and understanding.



The community of encouragement she has built often spills out from the four walls of her studio onto the sidewalk — members write inspirational messages in chalk. One message, in particular, hit home for Eastin.



"One day I went to the studio and saw someone had written 'safe space.' (in chalk). I got tears in my eyes knowing someone felt that way," she said.



Eastin said keeping people motivated to maintain a healthy lifestyle has been a challenge during a time of social distancing and social isolation amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Through Zoom classes and other means of distance instruction, which Eastin admits is not as fun as in-person instruction, she has kept her community of members motivated.



"We rely on the internet more," Eastin said. "It gives people a way to stay connected; it helps them maintain a support network."



For her friends and students, Eastin is more than just an instructor — she is an inspiration, which is something her friend, Lucy Miller, noted when she nominated Eastin for The Beacon's Everday Heroes story series.



"She can often be heard saying, 'Listen to your body.' She wants you to do your best, not what the most capable in the class does. She is great at helping you modify the workout to suit your situation."



Miller added: "She wants you to feel included, regardless of those capabilities or inabilities. She preaches that all bodies are worth loving and should feel joy in movement."



Always humble, Eastin credits her students for making her studio an inclusive, positive space. Every day, she said, she feels honored to be a part of her students' lives.



"I'm a small voice and sometimes I don't realize people are listening," she said. "Honestly, it's a privilege for me to be able to do this, to help others."



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 Anthony Dewitt



Kali Eastin, the owner of Kalioke Movement Lounge, has made it her mission to promote wellness — mind, body, and spirit. She offers Pound fitness, which incorporates colorful sticks as part of the exercise routine. Students often leave encouraging messages in chalk at her Burlington studio.

A Positive Voice For Positive Body Image

Photos by Jeff Abell



The Jefferson Street Farmers Market returned Thursday, albeit not on Jefferson Street. The market was held at the Harmony Bible Church parking lot (the former Tom’s Market) and was smaller in scale to comply with restrictions imposed by the state to help curb the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).



Photo 1: Julie Schroer, who is wearing a protective mask, bags up homemade dog treats at the farmers market. Schroer owns Breezy's Biscuits 'n' Barks based out of Mount Pleasant, and she makes a variety of dog treats.

Farmers Market Returns

By Beacon Staff



Malls, retail stores, tanning facilities, dentists, and campgrounds in Des Moines County were allowed to reopened to the public on Friday after Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds eased COVID-19 restrictions.



All businesses must follow social distancing guidelines, increased hygiene practices, and not go over 50 percent capacity. There have been 11,059 confirmed positive cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Iowa, with 4,266 people recovered and 231 deaths.



Photo 1 by Jeff Abell



The "open" sign is placed on the door at B-Town Comics and Games. The store reopened on Friday and will operate with shorter hours for the next few weeks. All retail stores are taking the necessary precautions to protect customers and employees.

It's Back To Business For Some Retail Stores, Albeit At A Safe Distance

By Beacon Staff



Malls, retail stores, tanning facilities, dentists, and campgrounds throughout the state will have the option of reopening to the public this Friday.



A revised order issued by Gov. Kim Reynolds on Wednesday eases restrictions in the 22 counties (including Des Moines County) currently under stricter rules than the rest of the state. The order does not mention easing restrictions on restaurants, salons, and tattoo parlors.



Local businesses such as B-Town Comics and Games, Weird Harold’s, Myrtle Vera’s Hallmark, and BOLD Beauty Bar are some of the first Burlington establishments to announce their reopening Friday, and others likely will follow. BOLD Beauty Bar will only be open for tanning.



Medical spas that provide aesthetic medical services, such as laser hair removal, acupuncture, and Botox injections, also will be allowed to reopen.



But there are restrictions, depending on the types of business. All businesses will have to follow social distancing guidelines, increased hygiene practices, and not go over 50 percent capacity.



Following The Rules



Reynolds was in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday to meet with President Donald Trump and update him about Iowa's response to the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed 219 Iowans and infected 10,404 as of Wednesday.



The Iowa Department of Natural Resources announced it will only re-open state campgrounds to campers with tents, pop-up campers, or RVs with a functioning, self-contained bathroom. Playgrounds, rental lodges, shelter houses, cabins, and visitor centers will remain closed. Beaches will be open but monitored closely. Communal picnic tables will be available to use at campers’ “own risk.”



The Associated Press contributed to this article.

Some Des Moines County Businesses Reopening to The Public

By Beacon Staff



Shearer’s Foods on Friday has officially confirmed the second case of COVID-19 at its West Burlington plant, according to a company official.



In a press release on Friday, a Shearer’s Foods official said the second employee who was diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19 )contracted the virus from a non-employee. A second positive case was confirmed in April by employees who wished to remain anonymous. Company officials have not acknowledged if the case announced Friday was the same individual.



Kimberly Davenport, corporate director of Shearer’s Snacks corporate office in Massilon, Ohio, said the second individual has agreed to self-quarantine for 14 days. Company officials did not say when the second employee was tested or when they became ill.



Friday's official confirmation comes a month after the first case was announced by Shearer’s Foods. Davenport said that person has fully recovered from COVID-19.



Regarding the second confirmed case, Davenport said: “The team member did not come in contact with the product and there is no food safety risk. People who have been asked by the company to stay at home in quarantine, under an abundance of caution, will continue to receive pay and benefits during their quarantine period."