DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – The Iowa State Fair is just 15 days away and a swine flu outbreak is changing how animals are inspected before the fair. The flu in China has prompted the state veterinarian to require inspections of animals seven days before the State Fair, instead of the usual 30 days. The Iowa Department of Agriculture says the additional requirements are designed to promote biosecurity and animal health.

DAVENPORT, IA (IRN) – Two eastern Iowa teachers are dead after drowning in a pool in Davenport, according to WHO-TV. Officers were called to a backyard pool in east Davenport around 9 p.m. Monday. Police say the men are not related and both died of accidental drowning. The incident is under investigation.

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – Two children were pepper-sprayed by Des Moines police after allegedly shoplifting at a QuickTrip convenience store. KCCI-TV reports the boys, ages 8 and 9, were holding butcher knives after shoplifting at a convenience store. Police say the pepper spray was the safest way to subdue the boys. Both were taken to the hospital and will be OK.

INDIANOLA, IA (IRN) – Two people were hospitalized after a crash during RAGBRAI Tuesday in Indianola. The crash happened at the bottom of a steep hill. Police say a 22-year-old woman and a 57-year-old man crashed into each other as they were coming down at high speeds. Both were airlifted from the scene to Des Moines hospitals.

WATERLOO, IA (IRN) – The Waterloo Police Foundation met 36 elementary and middle school students on Tuesday to help them shop for school supplies. KCRG-TV reports the “Cops, Kids, and Cool for School” event helps families who may not be able to afford the long list of items kids need for school. The event is part of an effort to help kids get excited to start the school year. Lieutenant Corbin Payne said it’s also a good opportunity to build positive relationships in their community, and he loves seeing the smiles on the kid’s faces.