Chamber News

Fairfield Cultural Alliance Mini-Grants - New Focus for 2020

7/9/2020

Fairfield Cultural Alliance Mini-Grants
New Focus for 2020

Every year, the Fairfield Cultural Alliance (FCA) promotes the arts and cultural activities in our community through various activities. One of these activities is awarding small grants to individuals, and organizations whose cultural, artistic, and musical contributions have been recognized for supporting creative projects. Traditionally, the FCA accepts applications during the spring and summer and awards the grants at an annual gala in the fall.

This year, the circumstances are different. In-person events, performances, and exhibits are too risky to consider. The FCA recognizes and especially wants to support the local organizations that are drawing on limited resources trying to provide creative and innovative platforms for showcasing art and talent. This includes virtual performance venues, online galleries and shared funding sources designed to connect artists of all sorts to their audiences. In this way, art is being kept alive in the community, and artists keep their creative edge alive as well.

Fairfield Cultural Alliance Grant Applications are now available at Fairfieldculturaldistrict.org for individuals and organizations that are working to support the art community. Download applications with instructions at http://www.fairfieldculturaldistrict.org/docs/2020-Grant-App.pdf Organizations with 501(c)3 status can either apply themselves, or sponsor other individuals and organizations with projects designed to uphold safety restrictions that are likely to be in place for the foreseeable future.

Applications are due by August 15, 2020. The recipients will be announced and grants will be distributed by September 1st. Watch for further details on the Fairfield Cultural Alliance Facebook page and in local media!
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How to Cope with Coronavirus Stress

7/1/2020

Conversation Column - Mental Health & You
How to Cope with Coronavirus Stress

In this Conversation Column, we look at these various mental health strategies for coping with prolonged stress during COVID-19 pandemic.

We have all been going through many adjustments and dramatic changes in our schedules, work, and home life. These stressors, even when we think we are adapting well, can have an impact on our mental health.

With the pandemic and other recent events we have all been forced to adjust to what has been called the new normal. But we think for most of us it doesn't feel normal. Some of the changes have been relatively minor adjustments to our schedules and daily routines, like a dearth of social events and outings and sports. For many, however, the changes have been much more drastic disruptions to our public and private lives, including, being required to work and/or stay at home, losing jobs or even struggling to put food on the table.

Research suggests that all these changes (big and small), all these stressors, can significantly impact our mental and physical health, even when we think we are adapting well.

We hope you enjoy our offerings - Let us know
Wishing you a safe and healthy Holiday weekend!
Diana and Jan

4 Mental Health Strategies for
Coping with COVID-19 Stress

Our Featured Doctor

Shainna Ali Ph.D., LMHC

Shainna Ali is a mental health clinician, supervisor, educator, and advocate.
Dr. Ali is passionate about de-stigmatizing mental health counseling and helping individuals worldwide recognize the importance of fostering mental wellness. Dr. Ali is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida, a nationally-certified clinician, and an approved clinical supervisor. She is the owner and operator of Integrated Counseling Solutions, LLC, a strengths-based clinical mental health and consulting practice located in Downtown Orlando.

About Dr. Ali

Have you been noticing a spike in your stress as a result of COVID-19? If so, you certainly aren’t alone.

Pandemics are not declared lightly, and an increase in your stress is actually a normal response.
However, not only is stress unpleasant, it can also hinder your immunity. The World Health Organization emphasizes that preventative care plays a crucial role in fighting the Coronavirus, therefore, it’s helpful to boost your coping in an effort to improve your overall well-being. Here are four strategies to help you maintain your mental wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read Full Article

Coping Strategies
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RECOGNIZE YOUR STRESS
Stress is a normal part of life.
It is a natural response to an external pressure that disrupts your equilibrium. It often causes symptoms such as:

Sadness, confusion, irritability, anger, uneasiness, and suicidal thoughts
Reduced concentration, efficiency, and productivity
Social withdrawal and isolation
Interpersonal problems (e.g., lies, defensiveness, communication concerns)
Tension (e.g., headaches, jaw clenching, teeth grinding)
Body pain (e.g., headaches, muscle spasms)
Reduced energy (e.g., tiredness, weakness, fatigue)
Sleeping problems (e.g., insomnia, nightmares)

This notion may seem simple, but it’s often easier said than done.

It’s common to miss the signs of stress early on, preventing your ability to handle them before they grow. Even if you notice these symptoms, it’s also tempting to think that you can manage them by brushing them under the rug. The danger in this tactic is that it doesn’t allow you to tackle the problem head on, and the catalyst of time can cause you to miss the crucial moment to intervene before your stress becomes overwhelming.

The first important step to managing these symptoms is to recognize that they are related to stress.

According to the Four Branch Model of Emotional Intelligence, the ability to recognize your emotional state is essential in order to understand and manage your emotions. Therefore, if you skip the phase of acknowledging that you are stressed, you impede your ability to manage your stress.

4 Coping Strategies

Our Video Corner

Tori Olds, Ph.D.

Human Complexity:
Why We are Vulnerable to Suffering

The human brain is designed to process information in a complex manner that integrates multiple ways of working with the data it receives. When that integration happens well, and true complexity is achieved, we are capable of such amazing things...art and love and states of expansion.

The main thing that is going to make us feel safe is when we know we are loved and protected.

5 Ways to Cope with Coronavirus Anxiety and Dealing with Coronavirus Fear

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Dr. Tracey Marks, M.D.
Tracey Marks, M.D., is an Atlanta psychiatrist and psychotherapist, specializing in the interplay between mind and body, and how it shapes our quality of life.

Dr. Tracey Marks shares 5 ways to cope with coronavirus anxiety and fear during this pandemic crisis.

We're social people and it's hard to keep to ourselves and not want to be around people, it's also hard to spend hours mentally unstimulated. So what do you do?
You watch television, and if you keep the news on for hours at a time, it can really ramp up your anxiety to hear nonstop information on the rising death toll.

Directory and Reviews for Online Therapy

Online Counseling Directory

The Online Counseling Directory is an international directory that provides a platform that connects people with therapists all over the world. The Online Counseling Directory also provides resources and guidance to therapists that wish to take their practice online with podcasts and documents that help you get started.
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Please stay safe and healthy!
Diana and Jan

JCPH Update for 6/30

6/30/2020

Jefferson County Public Health

*Effective July 01, 2020 official press releases will be issued as needed.

* COVID-19 information is available in “real time.” Jefferson County data is available here: https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/#

*Iowa Department of Public Health will be issuing updated guidance for schools and childcare centers. This information will be available soon. Please be understanding during this time, as our school districts are working hard to provide a safe learning environment during this on-going pandemic response. Jefferson County Public Health and Jefferson County EMA are working with school administration.

*JCPH immunization clinics will be held every Tuesday from 1-4. Appointments are required, please call 472-5929 to schedule. All individuals over the age of 10 will be required to wear a face covering. Bandanas are considered a face covering. One parent per child will be allowed. If you have more than one child in need of immunizations, an exception may be made. Screening questions will be asked prior to entering the office.

*Stop the Spread of Rumors: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/sharefacts.html

*Please continue to follow recommendations: wash your hands, practice social distancing, and wear a mask/face covering.

* Follow us on Facebook: Jefferson County Public Health, Jefferson County Emergency Management, Jefferson County Health Center, City of Fairfield, Iowa Government

National Alliance on Mental Illness - NAMICon 2020

6/30/2020

NAMICon 2020
Virtual Event - July 13, 14
Free Registration

Dear NAMI Supporter,

Register now for NAMI’s first-ever FREE virtual convention, NAMICon 2020, July 13–14.

NAMI’s two-day online convention will feature:

•Over 20 workshop sessions

•Live Q&A with presenters

•Virtual networking opportunities with peers

•Special plenaries with experts in the mental health field

•Virtual exhibit hall with convention sponsors

Our national convention is one of the largest community gatherings of mental health advocates in the U.S. If you have never attended before, this is the perfect opportunity to join our signature event for free!

Register Here

WE ARE
EXCITED

to offer sessions dedicated to mental health research, criminal justice reform, early intervention and youth- focused programming. Highlights include:

Why diversity, inclusion and cultural competence are important and how we can address issues such as identity, language and demographics:

•What Is Behind the Increasing Suicide Rate Among Black Youth?

•Diversity and Inclusion as a Driver to Achieve Mission

•Ending Conversion Therapy to Save Young LGBTQ Lives

Research updates regarding various treatments and models:

•A Novel Approach to Treatment Resistant Depression: Esketamine

•CBT for Psychosis: Evidence-Based Training Program for Family and Caregivers

•The Fusion Model: A Peer-Informed Model for Crisis Support

•Youth Resilience in Communities of Color, Community Participatory Research

The launch of the Well Beings campaign and a virtual town hall, a partnership of NAMI a nd WETA, the flagship PBS station in Washington, D.C., and other national partners. The moderated town hall discussion will include a panel of youth, parents and experts, including NAMI's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ken Duckworth.

While we have made our virtual event FREE OF CHARGE to register, donations to support NAMI’s important work in mental health education, advocacy and awareness are appreciated for those able to contribute.

Your support makes a real difference in our work and in the lives of the people we serve.
Learn More

Thank You to Our Sponsors

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Silver

Ribbon Sale Livestock Exhibitors - Greater Jefferson County Fair

6/29/2020

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The Greater Jefferson County Fair is hosting their 4-H/FFA Premium Auction on Monday, June 29th, 2020. Please review the final list below for the Ribbon Sale livestock exhibitors. If you have questions about this year's format or would like to make a bid, please contact one of the committee members.

4-H/FFA Premium Auction
Monday, June 29th
6:30pm
Show Arena, Jefferson County Fairgrounds

Committee Members:
Brandon Ledger - 641-919-4008
Drew Johnson - 641-919-4977

Social Security Administration - Here to Help

6/26/2020

On behalf of the Social Security Administration (SSA), [I/we] want to let you know that during the current coronavirus pandemic, SSA continues to provide help to you and others in your community.

While their offices are not providing service to walk-in visitors due to COVID-19, SSA remains committed to providing ongoing benefits and vital services. SSA asked [me/us] to let you know that they remain ready and able to help you by phone with most Social Security matters. You can speak with a representative by calling your local Social Security office or their National 800 Number. They provide local office phone numbers conveniently online with their Social Security Office Locator.

SSA also wants you to know they have many secure and convenient online services to:

Apply for Retirement, Disability, and Medicare benefits,
Check the status of an application or appeal,
Request a replacement Social Security card (in most areas),
Print a benefit verification letter, and
Much more.

Most business with SSA can be done online, but they know that many people still rely on phone or in-person help. That’s why they want you to know you can still count on them by phone. And, if you have a critical situation they cannot help you with by phone or online, they may be able to schedule an appointment for you.

If you need help from SSA, please don’t wait until they can see you in person. Reach out now and get the help you need.

Lastly, SSA also understands that getting medical and other documentation can be difficult due to the pandemic. So, they are continuing to extend certain deadlines wherever possible.

Iowans Unemployment and Injury Benefits Increase

6/26/2020

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DES MOINES – Iowa Workforce Development announced an increase to the amount of maximum weekly benefits paid to unemployed Iowans and to workers injured on the job. The new benefit payment schedules apply to individuals who file new unemployment insurance claims for the week beginning July 5, 2020, and to workers injured on or after July 1, 2020. Individuals currently receiving benefits from state or federal programs will continue to receive the same weekly benefit amount.
An increase in the amount of wages covered by unemployment insurance triggered the rise in benefits. The average annual wage for insured Iowa workers increased to $48,455.86 in 2019, up from $47,290.57 in 2018.
Under Iowa law, the number of people covered by unemployment insurance and their gross wages are primary elements of a formula Iowa Workforce Development uses each year to compute maximum and minimum benefit amounts paid to jobless workers. The new rates are:

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Iowa Workforce Development officials noted that about half of those eligible for unemployment insurance benefits have enough earnings to qualify for the maximum benefit. The 2021 taxable wage base will be $32,400.
Beginning July 1, the workers’ compensation maximum weekly benefit for temporary total disability, healing period, permanent total disability and death will rise to $1,864. For permanent partial disability, the weekly maximum will be $1,715.
Information about the weekly benefits is available in the 2019 Unemployment Insurance Claimant Handbook at www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

Iowa Department of Human Rights: COVID-19 Update for News, Resources and Information

6/26/2020

We are here to help.

COVID-19 has affected various aspects of life for Iowa residents, communities, and businesses. Information surrounding COVID-19 is rapidly changing and can be overwhelming. To help Iowans navigate information, the Iowa Department of Human Rights has compiled some resources about health and safety, language access, food, employment, grants, and more that we will be sending out in a weekly email. We hope these resources will help Iowans stay safe, healthy, informed, and resilient during these challenging times.

During the pandemic, it is especially important for us to serve as a catalyst of information to provide support and resources to Iowans, particularly vulnerable Iowans who are experiencing additional challenges, to help them understand the state's response to COVID-19.

After this week, our newsletters will be available bi-weekly. Please continue to follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Thank You to Our Staff and Partners

The health and safety of our staff and our communities are our top priority. The Iowa Department of Human Rights staff are working remotely and continue to serve Iowans. We can be reached at 1-800-351-4659 or via our web portal Contact Us form.

As Iowa transitions from response to recovery phase, the Iowa Department of Human Rights thanks its staff, partners, and communities for their continued commitment and passion for helping Iowans during a time of need. From increasing access to information, to utility assistance, to distributions of food and masks, to family services, our collective actions are supporting Iowans whose lives have been impacted by the pandemic.

LIHEAP Application Deadline June 30, 2020

If you are having trouble paying your home energy bill or facing disconnection, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program is accepting applications through June 30, 2020, at your local community action agency. To find a community action agency near you, visit the Iowa Department of Human Rights' website at https://humanrights.iowa.gov/dcaa/iowas-community-action-agencies. Many agencies offer other assistance such as food banks, food delivery initiatives, clothing, diapers, and addressing other emergency needs.

Governor Reynolds issues disaster proclamation for Black Hawk County

Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Black Hawk County in response to a severe storm June 20. The governor's proclamation allows state resources to be utilized to respond to and recover from the effects of this severe weather and activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program for qualifying residents, along with the Disaster Case Management Program, for Black Hawk County.

The Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program provides grants of up to $5,000 for households with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level or a maximum annual income of $43,440 for a family of three. Grants are available for home or car repairs, replacement of clothing or food, and temporary housing expenses. Original receipts are required for those seeking reimbursement for actual expenses related to storm recovery. The grant application and instructions are available on the Iowa Department of Human Services website. Potential applicants have 45 days from the date of the proclamation to submit a claim.

For information on the Disaster Case Management Program, contact your local community action agency or visit http://iowacommunityaction.org/get-help/programs/.

Paycheck Protection Program accepting applications until June 30, 2020

The Small Business Administration is assisting small businesses and non-profits with access to the federal forgivable loan program, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which is currently accepting applications until June 30, 2020. More than $129 billion remains to be loaned in the PPP fund. The new rule updates provisions relating to loan maturity, deferral of loan payments, and forgiveness provisions and expands eligibility for businesses with owners who have past felony convictions.
To learn more, visit: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program.

Tax Deadlines and Free Tax Preparation

The extended deadline to file and pay 2019 federal income taxes is July 15, 2020. Iowa tax returns are due July 31, 2020.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) provides free tax preparation to low-to-moderate income families and individuals. IRS-trained volunteer tax preparers assist clients to complete their tax returns and file them electronically for fast refunds.

Dubuque County - Operation New View Community Action Agency is resuming a free income tax preparation service in Dubuque. Taxpayers will need an appointment to leave documents at the Operation New office at 1473 Central Ave. in Dubuque. For more information and needed documents, click here.
Cerro Gordo and Winnebago Counties - North Iowa Community Action Organization 1-800-873-1899.

Quad Cities - United Way of the Quad Cities VITA will be hosting a one-day VITA FREE tax preparation drop off service Saturday, June 27, at the Davenport Fairmount Library parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information and required documents, visit https://www.facebook.com/unitedwayqc/?nr.

To locate the VITA site nearest to you, visit the IRS website or call 1-800-906-9887 or 211 in Iowa for opened offices. The IRS website has information available in multiple languages.

Low Income Taxpayer Clinics

Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITC) assist low income individuals who have a tax dispute with the IRS, and provide education and outreach to individuals who are English Language Learners. For more information and eligibility, visit the Iowa Legal Aid website at https://www.iowalegalaid.org/ or call 1-800-532-1275. Spanish and other languages are available through interpreter services.

Stimulus Payment Request Deadline for Non-Filers- October 15

The IRS reminds Americans who don't earn enough to have a tax filing requirement to sign up online with the IRS to request an Economic Impact Payment. If you're a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or "qualifying resident alien", you may be eligible for an Economic Impact Payment. Even if you don't normally file taxes or are experiencing homelessness, you may still qualify for a payment. You may also get an additional $500 for each qualifying child. To get this $1,200 payment, sign up at IRS.gov by October 15, 2020. No income is required and registering won't result in you owing taxes.

For eligibility requirements, required documents, and more information, visit https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here (website available in multiple languages).

EEOC Unveils New Online Visual Data Presentation

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has created new data visualizations to illustrate existing online employment discrimination data found here.
The purpose of these visuals, created by the EEOC’s Office of Enterprise Data and Analytics (OEDA), is to display enforcement data in a simple, comprehensible, and visually appealing way for all the EEOC’s stakeholders.

COVID-19 Language Resources

American Sign Language Videos-CDC
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-Resources for Limited English Proficient Populations
Congolese Health Partnership Videos
Coronavirus, State Website
Crescent Community Health Center-Marshallese Language
EMBARC Ethnic Minorities of Burma and Advocacy and Resource Center
Iowa Department of Human Rights-Language Access
Iowa Department of Public Health
Iowa Spanish Helpine 515-344-3936
Multi-Lingual Hotline 1-877-558-2609
(Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa and partners)
Test Iowa-COVID-19 Testing (Spanish available)

Previous Newsletters

June 19, 2020
June 12, 2020
June 6, 2020
May 29, 2020
May 22, 2020
May 15, 2020
May 8, 2020
May 1, 2020
April 24, 2020
April 17, 2020
April 10, 2020

JCPH Update for 6/24

6/24/2020

Jefferson County Public Health

*COVID-19 information is available in “real time.” Jefferson County data is available here: https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/#

*Iowa Department of Public Health will be issuing updated guidance for schools and childcare centers. This information should be available within the next two weeks.

*Guidance from the CDC regarding Gathering and Community Events can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html

*JCPH immunization clinics will be held every Tuesday from 1-4. Appointments are required, please call 472-5929 to schedule. All individuals over the age of 10 will be required to wear a face covering. Bandanas are considered a face covering. One parent per child will be allowed. If you have more than one child in need of immunizations, an exception may be made. Screening questions will be asked prior to entering the office.

Follow us on Facebook: Jefferson County Public Health, Jefferson County Emergency Management, Jefferson County Health Center, City of Fairfield, Iowa Government

Jefferson County Fair 4-H/FFA Sellers at Premium Auction 2020

6/24/2020

Jefferson County Fair
4-H/FFA Sellers at Premium Auction Held on Monday, June 29th, 2020

Please visit the Jefferson County Fair website or Facebook page for more information!
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