Local News

By Pam Reinig

Although churches have been closed since late March I have “seen” the members of my congregation weekly—and not once have we defied the governor’s order prohibiting large gatherings.

            I am pastor of Illyria Community Church in Elgin, which is home to some of the area’s most caring and clever people. I’ve been live streaming our Sunday services and mid-week Christian Ed class for four weeks as part of our commitment to stay connected even as COVID-19 keeps us apart.

By Pam Reinig, Register Editor

With Central Schools closed through April 30 and its students hunkered down at home, reading specialist Liz Tuecke has turned to video clips to keep kindergartners and first graders from falling behind. The energetic and creative Tuecke has already posted several videos using a fence line, an office chair, and even her collection of reading glasses as props. Assisting in her productions are her husband, Joe, who uses his smart phone to film the videos, and her Central colleague Jarod Bormann, who’s done some editing.

“In the time we’ve been out of school, I’ve taped 12 videos and have plans to tape 12 more,” said Tuecke. “They’ve intentionally been kept short so students can view them for quick review and move on, or visit them over and over.”

Aureon is pleased to announce that an Aureon Charity Grant has been awarded to area non-profit organizations in Northeast Iowa. The grants were presented in conjunction with Alpine Communications who sponsored the grant applications. Upon reviewing an abundance of applications, the Aureon Charity Grant Committee delegated funds to projects committed to the betterment of local Iowa communities.

By Pam Reinig

Register Editor

Last week,  Chelsea Armstrong confronted a challenge that few restaurateurs anticipated: She had to close her restaurant to dine-in customers.

“I saw it coming when the state Illinois closed its bars and restaurants,” she said. “We immediately started making plans for take-out and delivery. ”She wasn’t alone in her efforts. All of Elkader’s restaurants put strategies in place after Governor Kim    Reynolds banned gatherings of more than 10 people in one area. All are offering take-out; many have added curbside delivery and delivery with a limited radius. Treats on Bridge Street has even cordoned off a parking place for customers to use as they dash in for their orders.