DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – The Iowa Department of Public Health reported 56 additional positive cases of Iowans with COVID-19 this morning. The IDPH also confirmed a second and third death in Iowa. That brings the total to 235 positive cases. According to IDPH, two Iowans with COVID-19 passed away Thursday night, one elderly adult (81+ years) from Poweshiek County and one older adult (61-80 years) from Allamakee County. This brings the total COVID-19 deaths in Iowa to three.

IOWA (IRN) – Gov. Kim Reynolds announced an expansion of her prior emergency proclamation that postpones nonessential surgeries and expands business closures. This includes restaurants, bars, book stores, clothing stores, shoe stores, jewelry stores, luggage stores, perfume and beauty supply stores, florists, furniture stores, home furnishing stores and other retail businesses.

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – Iowa Workforce Development reports the number of initial unemployment claims filed last week was 41,890. That’s up from 2,229 reported in Iowa the week before.

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA (IRN) – Four residents at a Cedar Rapids nursing home have tested positive for COVID-19. KCRG-TV reports details on the conditions of the four residents have not been released. They have been isolated from other residents and will remain separated for at least 14 days. Two staff members at the facility tested positive for the virus earlier this week.

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA (IRN) – During the COVID-19 pandemic, a Cedar Rapids teacher made a promise to students if they do one thing: read. Blake Jenewein is a first grade teacher at Pierce Elementary School. KWWL-TV reports Jenewein posted a video of his challenge–if he can get 100 students to read five books, he will dye his hair and goatee pink. Within 24 hours, his video gained 1,000 views.