Montgomery County schools, businesses prepare for COVID-19
As of Monday, March 16, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Southwest Iowa, but that doesn’t mean local businesses aren’t taking precautions.
Additionally, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds recommended Sunday, March 15, all schools in Iowa close for four weeks to assist in containing the virus.
Stanton, Southwest Valley, Essex, East Mills, Glenwood, Griswold, Clarinda and other area schools held classes Monday, March 16, in order to prepare students and staff for the upcoming weeks of what’s to come with school out of session.
Red Oak school officials were not going to make a decision on whether they’d also close until Tuesday, March 17, after The Red Oak Express’ press time.
Betsy Sharp, Good Samaritan Society-Red Oak administrator; Red Oak Rehab and Care Center Administrator, J.R. Moss; and Melissa Wiebenga, Senior Housing marketing director; are not allowing visitors into the facilities until further notice.
Outside personnel and deliveries are also being more carefully screened before entering the premises. This is a precautionary measure to protect the residents, as the virus is most severe on the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.
Kara Sherman, executive director of the Wilson Performing Arts Center said she is monitoring the situation closel and is committed to staying in communication with patrons, artists, volunteers, students and staff.
“Based on the recommendation of the local health department, there will be no event cancellations or schedule changes at this time. All performances will proceed as scheduled. If anything changes, we will immediately notify the public news outlets and contact our ticket holders,” commented Sherman. “We respectfully request that any patrons who feel ill refrain from entering the building or attending performances or special events. If you are experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, the WPAC Box Office will gladly exchange your ticket.”
Sherman, who also serves as marketing director at the Red Coach Inn and Restaurant, said they remain open and committed to keeping hotel and restaurant guests as safe as possible.
“Please be assured that we continue to keep the highest standards of cleanliness in our facility. Should the recommendation from our local health department change, we will immediately notify the public news outlets and contact our guests,” replied Sherman. However, they do ask guests who feel ill to refrain from entering the facilities.
Nishna Productions, Inc., posted on its Facebook page they are cancelling or postponing all scheduled outings and gatherings, as well as updated visitation policies at all locations.
“We are not allowing visitors at this time, unless pre-arranged with a member of the administration,” read the post.
Beau Boeye, events and marketing coordinator for the Red Oak Chamber and Industry Association, said in light of current events, the Annual Ag Appreciation Dinner, scheduled for Wednesday, March 24, was postponed to Thursday, Aug. 6 at the Gold Fair Building.
Boeye said the Southwest Iowa Buy Local Expo, scheduled for Saturday, April 4, has also been postponed, with no make up date announced as of yet.
Up-to-date cancellations and postponements can also be found on Page 5A, The Red Oak Express’ Facebook page and website, redoakexpress.com.