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JCPH Update for 7/30

7/30/2020

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Jefferson County Public Health

*To date Jefferson County Public Health has performed contact tracing on 76 individuals. There has been a 2-person discrepancy in the reported totals. This number is accurate information provided by JCPH. All cases in Jefferson County have recovered or are in the “recovery phase” of illness. No COVID-19 related deaths have occurred.

*Jefferson County Public Health does not release numbers on a daily basis. IDPH provides state wide information. COVID-19 information is available in “real time.” Jefferson County data is available here: https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/#

*Contact tracing will continue to be performed by JCPH for COVID-19 and other communicable diseases. JCPH requests that all individuals be honest and transparent when answering contact tracing questions. This is important for the health of our entire community.

*JCPH continues to work with all local school districts and other community partners during this on-going pandemic response.

*Please continue to follow recommendations: wash your hands, practice social distancing, and wear a mask/face covering. Stay home if you are sick. 
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Fairfield Football Webstore Now Open

7/30/2020

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The Fairfield High School Trojan football apparel store is open!

Orders can be placed through August 11th, 2020. Orders placed on or before August 11th will be available for pickup from the high school on the afternoon of 8/25.

Questions? Please contact Jim Weaton at J.Weaton@Lisco.com

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https://stores.teamelitesports.com/fairfield_football/shop/home
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IEDA Small Business Utility Disruption Prevention Program

7/30/2020

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​Iowa Economic Development Authority
Small Business Utility Disruption Prevention Program


PROGRAM PURPOSE The Iowa Economic Development Authority’s (IEDA) Small Business Utility Disruption Prevention Program will provide short-term relief to eligible small businesses and nonprofits that face significant hardship in the payment of utility bills for service provided during the months of disruption to their business.

Please click here for a PDF copy of the full program description, eligibility and application process.
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Iowa Department of Human Rights - Newsletter

7/27/2020

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​We are here to help.

The Iowa Department of Human Rights (DHR) brings strength to Iowa's rich heritage.  Our three divisions - Community Action Agencies, Community Advocacy and Services, and Criminal and Juvenile Justice Planning - work to reduce cultural, social, and economic barriers to opportunities for Iowans to succeed.

Join Our Team

The Iowa Department of Human Rights is partnering with Iowa AmeriCorps 4-H Outreach to have AmeriCorps members serve as the Coordinator for the State of Iowa Youth Advisory Council and the Coordinator for the Iowa Youth Congress. 
For details on the positions and and how to apply, visit https://humanrights.iowa.gov.
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Extended Unemployment Benefits

Iowans who have exhausted their entitlement of the additional 13 weeks of Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) may be eligible for the State Extended Benefit (EB) program of up to an additional 13 weeks. The payable period for State Extended Benefits (EB) in Iowa began the week of May 17, 2020, when the 13-week average insured unemployment rate reached 5.0%.  Unemployed workers who exhaust their allotted weeks of regular state unemployment and then the 13 weeks of federal PEUC benefits will now be eligible for State EB, which provides up to an additional 13 weeks of regular unemployment benefits while State EB is still triggered “On” in Iowa.  For more information, visit https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/state-extended-benefits
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Rent and Mortgage Assistance

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Statewide
Iowa Finance Authority's COVID-19 Iowa Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Program provides short-term relief to income-eligible renters and homeowners who are at risk of eviction or foreclosure due to a documented COVID-19 related loss of income.  Housing Recovery Helpline 855-300-5885

Des Moines Residents
The Rental/Mortgage Assistance program provides one-time or short-term (no more than three months) emergency payments are available on behalf of individuals or families, For eligibility requirements and program details, call IMPACT Community Action Agency at 515-274-9496.
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West Des Moines Residents
West Des Moines Human Services offers emergency financial assistance to help qualifying residents of West Des Moines.  Emergency Financial Assistance provides partial payments in a crisis situation towards rent, gas/electric and water utility bills, or fuel along with assistance in working with related organizations/agencies.  For more information, call 515-222-3660. 

Rent and Mortgage Resources

EMBARC (Ethnic Minorities of Burma Advocacy and Resource Center) partnered with Polk County Continuum of Care to translate eviction rights into multiple languages.  Download a translated flyer from EMBARC's Facebook page. 

Iowa International Center 515-282-8269, ext. 5 (180+ languages)  Free housing interpretation hotline helps landlords and limited-English-speaking tenants communicate better during rent and lease negotiations, maintenance notifications and repairs, lease terminations, or whenever clear communication is essential. 

Iowa Mortgage Help  877-622-4866  State-wide referral hotline, foreclosure intervention and negotiation, mediation services (website available in Spanish)
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Iowa COVID-19 Free Legal Hotline

Iowa COVID-19 Legal Advice Hotline 800-332-0419   Iowans experiencing legal issues related to COVID-19, such as eviction, denial of unemployment benefits, employment issues or identity theft may call the hotline.  Callers can leave a message, and a representative will call them back. The hotline is a project of Iowa Legal Aid, the Iowa State Bar Associatio,n and the Polk County Bar Association’s Volunteer Lawyers Project.

Community Action Agencies

Many community action agencies offer assistance such as food banks, food delivery initiatives, clothing, diapers, and addressing other emergency needs. There is a network of 17 community action agencies that serves all of Iowa's 99 counties. To find a community action agency near you, visit the Iowa Department of Human Rights' website.

COVID-19 Testing for Uninsured

Uninsured individuals who may be positive for COVID-19  have the option of getting tested at Broadlawns Medical Center and Primary Health Care. Through special funding through the CARES Act, both healthcare systems can test and treat uninsured individuals for free.

Primary Health Care (PHC)
The Respiratory Clinic is open to all; being a PHC patient is not a requirement. The clinic is located immediately south of the Engebretsen Medical Clinic at 2401 SE 14th Street. Hours of operation are 8:00 - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday.  Individuals will be tested if they meet criteria set in place by Iowa Department of Public Health and by the clinician.
No appointments are necessary. Patients will be seen in the order they arrive. Questions or to schedule a Telehealth appointment to talk with a healthcare provider first, patients are encouraged to call their home PHC location. All others may call (515) 248-1400. Individuals with COVID-19 symptoms are encouraged to to call first before entering a PHC Clinic or go directly to the Respiratory Clinic.

Broadlawns Medical Center
Symptomatic patients can come to the Broadlawns Urgent Care at the hospital which is open Monday through Friday from 8 am-8 pm and Saturday 9 am-3 pm. Symptoms per CDC recommendations include fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, generalized muscle pain (not injury related), headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell.
Persons without symptoms who are concerned about whether or not they need testing due to exposure to a known COVID person may be tested by their Primary Care Provider in any of the Broadlawns Primary Care or Family Medicine clinics.

COVID-19 Test Iowa Sites/Schedules

The Test Iowa COVID-19 test is free and available to Iowans wishing to get tested, regardless of symptoms or potential exposure. Before heading to a Test Iowa location, you must first complete an online assessment at the Test Iowa website at  https://www.testiowa.com.  You will then receive instructions on your scheduled appointment and location. Information about the COVID-19 Test Iowa locations and schedules is available at the State's website https://coronavirus.iowa.gov.
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FCC Designates 9-8-8 for National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

On July 16, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission adopted rules to establish 9-8-8 as the new, nationwide, 3-digit phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors. The rules require all phone service providers to direct all 988 calls to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by July 16, 2022. During the transition to 988, Americans who need help should continue to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK) and through online chats. Veterans and Service members may reach the Veterans Crisis Line by pressing 1 after dialing, chatting online at www.veteranscrisisline.net, or texting 838255.
See news release: https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-designates-988-national-suicide-prevention-lifeline

Respond to the 2020 Census

You can still complete the 2020 Census questionnaire online, by phone, by mail, or when a census taker comes to your door.  Visit https://my2020census.gov or call 844-330-2020 to get started. Language support is available.  Learn more at  https://2020census.gov/en/languages.html.

Avoid Census-related Fraud and Scams
We've heard about COVID-19 scams, but scammers are also taking advantage of the Census survey.  Census takers will never ask you for information about your social security number, bank account or credit cards, or ask for money. For more on census scams, visit https://2020census.gov/en/avoiding-fraud.html.

CDC-Considerations for Schools
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As some communities open schools, CDC offers guidance for ways in which schools and parents can help protect students, teachers, administrators, staff, and families.
  • Considerations for Schools 
  • Childcare, Schools, and Youth Programs
  • Resources for Young Adults: 15 to 21
  • Colleges and Universities

​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 Helpline 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
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July 10, 2020              
June 26, 2020
June 19, 2020
June 12, 2020
June 6, 2020
Archives

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Sky Factory - Two Finalist Nominations in 8th Annual Architizer A+ Awards

7/22/2020

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Sky Factory Nominated Twice at the 2020 Architizer A+ Awards
David Navarrete


The 8th Annual Architizer A+ Awards just announced five finalists per category who will vie for both the Jury Award and the Popular Choice Award. Architizer, the world’s largest platform for architecture, announced the official nominations across 100+ categories ranging from typology projects, materials and technology applications, and new architectural products.
Sky Factory earned two finalist nominations. The first was for the Aperture SkyCeiling, a bi-sensory oculus that features a unique mechanical design for virtual skylights. Aperture was nominated in the Lighting: Contract Lighting category. At the same time, the INFINITY SkyCeiling, the first biophilic illusion of sky designed as a suspended ceiling cloud, secured the company’s second nomination in the Finishes: Ceilings category.

Place your vote by July 31st, 2020 to help Sky Factory win!


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Goodwill of the Heartland - Hiring

7/22/2020

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Goodwill in Fairfield, IA

Are you looking for a great place to work? Are you seeking a retail position that will leave you going home feeling fulfilled each and every day? Do you enjoy setting goals and working in a team environment? If so, Goodwill of the Heartland is hiring full time Retail Service Specialists for its Fairfield Store! If you’re a dependable team member who enjoys a fast paced environment, and can provide great customer service, we welcome you to apply only at www.workatgoodwill.com. We offer a starting pay range of $11.08 - 12.28 for the Service Specialist position. The schedule will vary.

Additionally, we offer 12 paid days off and 5 holidays per year, a 31% discount at our stores, pharmacy discounts, and a full benefits package for full time employees.

Goodwill of the Heartland is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status or other protected categories.
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Iowa Department of Revenue - Updated State Tax Guidance

7/22/2020

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​Iowa Department of Revenue


In 2018, the Iowa legislature enacted Senate File 2417, a state tax reform bill that included extensive changes to the state’s tax structure. The Department has released updated guidance to explain the following tax change: 
  • Global Intangible Low Tax Income & Foreign Derived Intangible Income - Beginning in tax year 2019, Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income (GILTI) is included in individual and fiduciary (estates and trusts) income taxpayers' Iowa net income, but under recent legislation GILTI is excluded from income for Iowa corporate income and franchise tax purposes. Taxpayers are allowed the same deduction for Foreign Derived Intangible Income (FDII) for Iowa purposes that they are allowed for federal purposes. Corporate taxpayers that file consolidated federal returns may have to make certain adjustments to both GILTI and the FDII deduction in order to properly report their income for Iowa purposes. Partnerships and S-Corporations are not typically required to include GILTI on their Iowa returns or make any Iowa specific adjustments to amounts reported on K-1s, but individual and fiduciary income taxpayers are required to report GILTI received from a passthrough to the same extent included on their federal returns for Iowa purposes.
The Department maintains a tax reform page to provide taxpayers with guidance on tax reform topics. Additional guidance is added as it becomes available. 
 
To receive notifications of resources and guidance issued by the Department, subscribe to updates by selecting the tax topics of interest.
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Welcoming New Chamber Member - Summit Pharmacy

7/10/2020

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New Chamber Member
Summit Pharmacy


Bryan Vander Linden is the owner Summit Pharmacy, of one of Fairfield’s newest businesses. Originally hailing from Pella, Bryan is no stranger to Fairfield, as he has been a practicing pharmacist in town for over six years. Coming from a family of four generations of pharmacists, Bryan decided it was time to start his own business and is now about to open the doors of Summit Pharmacy where the Sweet Spot had been for a number of years. They have a drive-up window as well as a storefront where they carry many over the counter medications, vitamins, and other supplements. 
 
While still waiting to clear a few last hurdles before he open the doors, Bryan can be reached at 641-472-7987 for inquiries about becoming a new customer. Congratulations on your new business and thank you for choosing Fairfield as your home!
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Fairfield Cultural Alliance Mini-Grants - New Focus for 2020

7/9/2020

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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

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Conversation Column - Mental Health & You
How to Cope with Coronavirus Stress
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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
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Our Featured Doctor
Shainna Ali Ph.D., LMHC
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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

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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

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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. 


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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.
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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.

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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. 
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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
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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.
Visit Site


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Please stay safe and healthy!
Diana and Jan

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