April 10, 2025

Spring Sports Preview inserted in this edition

2025

Spring Sports

preview

PUBLI SHED THURS

DAY, APRIL 10,

Ready for a dyna

2025

BY THE DECOR

mic season; fi

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AH LEADE R

SPORT S EDITO

R BECKY WALZ

Experience should pay off for At state, Branum the Decorah boys’ wrapped up tennis team his this season. stellar high school career at the state individual With five athletes tournament back with as the Class 1A runner-up letters, including substate play . He opened the tournamen and one on the big stage at state, t with a 2-0 win (6-1, 6-2) the Vikings still over have some reReicks of Kuemper Mason building to do.

Catholic and made his way Looking to lead to the final the team to with a strong season a 2-0 (6-1, 6-0) victory is head coach over Tyler Grote Matt Anderson of Sergeant who enters his Bluff-Luton. The fourth season at Viking took a the helm.

Returning letter tough three-sette winners for Vikings r loss in the fiKeaton are (l-r) Tristan A great run nals to Pella’s Jack Hunter, Briggs (6-4, Elliot Nalean-Carlson, Liam Chamber 1-6, 6-2). lain, Caleb Krieg Last year was fun Berland. (Photos and for coach courtesy of Tami Anderson and Nalean-Carlson Bohr) the Vikings as and Chamthey returned eight berlain lost in the opening round ty letter winexperienc ners. Decorah put to the Pella duo of Joshua Roo- Chamberl e — seniors Liam matched together an 11-4 dual record from positions 1-8 zeboom and Cameron ain and Caleb Krieg; so during the Rose in junior Keaton there will be a 2024 season. a pair of 6-1 sets. lot of competiNalean-C arlson tion for They fought and Back on the courts sophomores Elliot varsity spots on back in the back It all lead up to with the line lin Berland this year,” draw to earn and the tournaThompson, Addison a letter in 2025 are (front row, Tristan Hunter. ment season, as a well fought said coach l-r) DyAnder- row) win (6-4, 6-4) Maki, Myla Leitz, Decorah son. “I think this Joining the letter winners Camryn Holland, Jaidyn Duvel; (back the conference tournamen won against Glenwood team may surOlivia Huinker, on ’s Kayden courts t and Anderson Bjork and Leah Klaara Short, Kaitlyn punched a ticket will be seniors Bryan the prise a lot of teams as we Holland. (Photo and Brody Taylor, to the sort Ajzac, of rebuild

by Becky Walz) Aitor Cuevas, state team tournamen Class 1A before finally falling after losing so much Gavin Groux, in a third Ansel t by de- set talent the last two feating Aplington Kowitz, tiebreaker years.”

Andrew (4-6, 6-4, Kruger, -Parkersburg 5-1. to eventual fifth-place 1-0 (7)) Steven Munoz, Beau Newhouse Decorah boys finishers and Domenik tennis Evan Anderson and During Decorah’s Smith; junior Chase Mill- rick schedule second er Gallagher; sophomore Patstraight appearanc of Wahlert. e in the final s Jack Hammell, Evan April eight of Class 1A, 11 vs.

Osage, Madsen, Noah the Vikings Tough Talk about veteran April 12 at Mason 4:30 p.m.

Potvin, Tyler fell 5-1 in Xavier hitters City, 9 a.m.

Shaw, experi- Bjork in the opening ence. took on the individual Steines, Oskar Swanson Keagen April 17 at AplingtonAlthough Branum, round. and Colin Parkersbu a four- Thompson portion of the tournamen Third year head time state qualifi Individually, Decorah ; and freshmen Quade April 21 vs. rg, 4:30 p.m. coach Amant, comer (three as Winona Senior, ing up short of da Huinker noted had an individual Bruening, Brody three netters continue. a state 4:30 p.m. it could be a ), along with A. Darling, Peyton the doubles competitio bid. In challenge setting April Kimball, Logan pair Aidan Nalean-C Doubles Nalean-Carlson, a a lineup for Duvel n, Jaidyn Nalean-Carlson April 22 vs. Onalaska, 4 p.m. one-time and arlson and state the Decorah girls 24 at Waverly-S Nils Peterson.

Liam Chamberl qualifier in doubles hell Rock, tennis team seeded and Leah Holland were ain went 3-1 to 12 p.m. gradwith the multitude fourth, winning “I have a mix of uated last May, earn a state berth. of Decorah does experience April 25 at Winona Senior Senior Caden the squad this season. talent on first two rounds before their and good young have some experienc Branum went 4-0 (Minn.), falling newcomers. I Helping to Kaitlyn 4:30 p.m. e returning also to win the this guide the Vikes April and Kendall have maybe my district crown and season. with most ath- May 229 at Oelwein, 4 p.m. looked to dethis season are assistantHuinker of Osage to earn third. Olson letic team ever, vs. Clear Lake, Leading the way fend his Class 1A Second which will May 6 at Waverly-S 4:30 p.m. es coach- seeded title at state. are the be fun Reg Laursen, Phil Evon Leitz and five core returners hell Rock, to work with. I Olivia Yee and Huinker 4:30 p.m. with varsi- the believe Kristy Schilling. had a hard first team will be fairly match evenly May 8 vs. Columbus Catholic, but went on to fi 4 p.m. nish runner-up Highlights from to the Osage Olson 2024 duo and punch a ticket to The 2024 Viking state. squad featured six returning Competing among letter winthe best ners which formed at state, Leitz and Huinker the nucleus of a team of nearly dropped their first match to 35 athletes eager to bring home Bryn Higginbot ham and Claire a victory.

Smock 2-0 (6-2, Decorah worked 6-3) and finhard on finding a cohesive group ished their season in the throughout the season and went lation bracket against conso11-3 in dual Ballard’s action. The work Jocie Hobbs and paid off as the Ellie Volksuccessful season mann 2-1 (1-6, 6-4, 0-1 (10-7)). culminated in the conferenc e title with five Back on the attack singles champion s and one pair Much like last becoming doubles year, coach champs.

Huinker will have In regional play, a mighty the Vikings group started by defeating of returning letter winWahlert ners to Catholic 5-2 look to this year. and Western Members of the Decorah boys’ They will be led Dubuque 5-2 in tennis team for by mell, Domenik the first two the 2025 Smith, Jaidyn Duvel, Camryn seniors rounds. It was a tight regionCoach Scott Hermann Bryan Ajzac, Gavin Groux, Cohen season are (front row, l-r) Peyton Holland, Leah Holland and al final match with Kimball, Brody Berland, , Keaton Nalean-C Klaara Short Tristan Hunter, Darling, Jack HamDike-New and arlson, Colin Thompso Nils Peterson, Noah Potvin, Andrew Kruger, Hartford that ended juniors Kaitlyn Quade Bruening n, Tyler Shaw, Logan Nalean-C Swanson, Patrick Bjork and Decorah’s Olivia ; (middle row) team Keagan Steines, arlson; Gallagher, Liam Huinker with freshman season 5-4.

Steven Munoz, Chamberlain, Ansel (back row) Head Coach Matt Eliott Berland, Grace Huinker Anderson, Coach Kowitz, Beau Newhous That sent the squad and Myla Brett Leitz into the Wilker, Oskar individual e, Caleb Krieg, Aitor Cuevas and Evan Madsen. Camryn regional tournament. Surprises Holland and Kaitlyn Continued on page B-4

ers back for Vikes

Cluster of talen ted athletes may pack a few surprises

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Vol. 160, Issue 15 www.decorahleader.com

Decorah, Iowa 52101 email: editor@decorahleader.com

New archery range deemed ‘another community success’ for Decorah

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR The punctuated sound of an arrow tip piercing its target Saturday afternoon marked the official opening of Decorah’s new archery range in Will Baker Park.

Decorah Parks and Recreation Director Marc Holtey credited Decorah’s Sam Lewey and Drew Nielsen with proposing the creation of a local archery range approximately two years ago — under the tenure of Holtey’s predecessor. Lewey told Saturday’s crowd he feels passionately about teaching youth to hone their archery skills. Lewey said he initially mentioned the idea of establishing a public range in Decorah to Nielsen, who serves as the shop manager at Xpedition and Anthem Archery. Lewey said it wasn’t long before more serious discussions were taking place.

Two Sections

phone: 563-382-4221

Dave Smutzler

Decorah Mayor Lorraine Borowski loosed the first arrow Saturday afternoon at the city’s newly-opened archery range in Will Baker Park. The mayor’s first shot fell just short of the target amid gusty winds, but her second arrow found its mark.

BELOWDrew Nielsen, with Xpedition and Anthem Archery, gave Borowski a high five after she successfully struck the target.

“I’m just extremely excited for this to be resource to build community — friends and family coming together to be able to participate in a fun outdoor activity,” Lewey said.

Similarly, Decorah Parks and Recreation Commission member Rich Gaard said he and other city officials were pleased to celebrate the completion of the new archery range on Saturday, and he said cooperation between the commission, the Decorah C i t y

Council and other organizers helped propel the project to fruition.

Andy Nimrod, who previously served as Decorah’s Parks and Recreation director before retirement, coordinated with Lewey, Nielsen and other organizers on the archery range project before Nimrod retired and passed the baton to Holtey.

Nimrod credited community members, including Lewey and Nielsen, with raising the necessary fundraising for the project — information presented

Archery range continued on page A-11

Diane Ott Whealy

Nordic Fest Board of Directors announces 2025 grand marshal and Skål recipient The Nordic Fest Board of Directors recently announced the 2025 Nordic Fest honorees. Those selected as the annual festival’s grand marshal and Skål recipient are to be individuals whose dedication to Nordic Fest, meaningful contributions to the community and ongoing support of local traditions have made a lasting impact. The 2025 honorees will be celebrated throughout Nordic Fest weekend, including during the opening ceremonies and the Grand Parade.

Nordic Fest 2025 is scheduled for July 24–26 in Decorah.

2025 Nordic Fest Skål recipient - Dave Smutzler The Nordic Fest Skål recipient is an individual or individuals who have demonstrated exceptional and continuing support of the festival.

For more than three decades, Dave Smutzler has been a steadfast presence in Decorah, dedicating himself to both public service and the vibrant traditions of Nordic Fest. A native of Rushford,

Fest honors continued on page A-6

City officials to examine Decorah city code following questions on parks board, city council hierarchy

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER The Decorah City Council agreed Monday to allow Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken a degree of discretion regarding efforts between the city and its parks and recreation commission until the city council is able to rework Decorah’s city code and other rules regarding the hierarchy between the city council and the parks board.

Decorah City Councilperson at Large Emily Neal told her fellow council members she has received numerous letters

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RIGHT- Sam Lewey helped young archers find their mark after the city of Decorah opened its new archery range Saturday in Will Baker Park. Lewey and Drew Nielsen were credited with proposing the idea of an archery range to city officials approximately two years ago. Organizers said the two also led fundraising efforts to make the range a reality.

(Photos by Seth Boyes)

Price $1.50

regarding the city’s public trails and has been very frustrated by what she called a lack of clear delineation regarding the chain of command between the council, parks board and city staff — members of the city council did not specify Monday what decisions or actions the confusion may be stemming from.

“I think we need to clean up the code and share the responsibility of our parks,” Neal said.

“There has been a lot of disconnect, and that translates to a lot

City Council continued on page A-8

Sodexo expects layoffs after Luther weighs multiple proposals for campus food services Luther to release more information in coming weeks

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR Information from Iowa Workforce Development recently showed Sodexo — which currently provides food services for Luther College in Decorah — expects to layoff 130 employees as part of an expected closure this summer.

“Luther College is in the final stages of a lengthy (request for proposal) process related to the contract for its campus food service operations,” the college

said in a statement Thursday, April 3. “The college anticipates having more news to share in the coming two weeks.”

Sodexo has managed Luther’s food services since approximately 2009, according to college officials, and the company’s most recent 10-year contract with Luther expired in 2024. The college began accepting applications in the fall of 2024 from other vendors interested in providing the campus’ food services.

“We got responses from mul-

tiple vendors,” said Bill Smith, Luther’s vice president of communications, later adding the process is common to many college campuses across the country. “We evaluated them. We had finalists. We interviewed. It was a process that was several months long.”

Smith also said Sodexo agreed to extend its contract with Luther by one year in order to help college officials avoid

Sodexo

continued on page A-3

Information provided through Iowa’s Workforce Development said Sodexo, which has provided food services on Luther College’s campus, filed notice of 130 layoffs expected to take effect June 30. Luther opened its food services up for proposals in the fall of 2024. Bill Smith, vice president of communications at Luther, said whether the incoming food service vendor offers employment to the 130 affected employees is not the college’s decision to make, but he said the state’s recent report may not have the impact the numbers might seem to infer.

(Photo courtesy of Luther College)

NEWS

A-2 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

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‘HANDS OFF’

3/25 1619119558

Hundreds of people gathered at Decorah’s Mary Christopher Park to protest federal polices as part of a nationwide effort dubbed Hands Off. (Photo by Denise Lana)

Hundreds rally in Decorah to oppose federal policies, funding cuts

Not everyone held signs during Saturday’s Hands Off rally.

Some showed their support for the United States by merely holding an American flag. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER An estimated 500 people attended Decorah’s Hands Off 2025 rally on Saturday, April 5 near Mary Christopher Park.

The local rally was one of many held as part of a nationwide event in support of the public’s rights and freedoms. Some at Decorah’s rally trekked from neighboring states like Minnesota and Wisconsin to add their voices to those calling for support of the LGBTQ+ community, military veterans, farming, science, water quality and other issues attendees feel have been negatively effected by the Trump Administration’s policies and funding cuts as well as certain state-level decisions.

“People from everywhere are here today to say, ‘Hands off. Take your hands off of all our government programs, our nature, our water, our education — all of it,” said military veteran Laura Hubka, who acted as the local rally’s emcee.

“Let’s take back patriotism.

Let’s take back the American flag that belongs to all of us — this 250 years-plus experiment of democracy, where we fought against a king, against idolatry, against religious persecution, against those that would have us bend a knee. That’s not what our country stands for.”

Chrystal Duffy who lives near the city of Postville, spoke out on behalf of immigrants whom she said have experienced mistreatment in recent months as federal authorities step up deportation efforts.

“I could tell you personally — receiving a call from a friend in tears because a little boy was left behind, because his father was detained in front of him,

HANDS OFF DEMOCRACY — Decorah City Councilperson at Large Emily Neal warmed up Saturday’s rally. (Photo by Denise Lana) “We the people must rally and fight, and push back and say hands off our democracy,” Neal said. “There is no part of our lives the government doesn’t touch, from the food we eat to the medications we rely on, to the cars we drive and the bridges we drive over.”

Neal said she feels those who oppose the government’s current actions are often bullied and threatened into silence, but she encouraged the public to speak out in support of America’s congressional and judicial authority, citing the withdraw of federal funding for cancer research and efforts to mitigate climate change.

“If we don’t do this now — if we don’t rise up, our democracy will fail,” Neal said. “This is the moment that defines us, what it really means to be an American. To stand for the ideals of our country, to be better than we ever have before. The world is watching and counting on us.” and no one made sure that boy was safe,” Duffy said. “This happened in Postville, March 14. This isn’t somewhere else.

This is 15 miles away.”

She estimated the Postville community has experienced seven raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement since January, and she said the community has also been im-

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“Guess who’s not eating that food now? Immigrants, who came here to be safe,” Duffy said, before encouraging the public to support Postville’s businesses — many of which are owned or operated by immigrants.

Ava Hanson, a 16-year-old Decorah High School student, spoke out in support of LGBTQ+ rights.

“Across this country, our rights, our lives and our futures are under attack.” Hanson told the crowd.

She feels medical care should be available to all members of the public, including transgender individuals, and she opposes the banning of books on topics related to LGBTQ+ experiences.

“Elected leaders are attacking queer people,” Hansons said.

“If they really wanted to protect us, they would pass laws that support us, not take away our resources.”

She encouraged Saturday’s crowd to speak up in defense of LGBTQ+ individuals, rather than simply wear rainbow attire as a passive symbol of support.

“We need allies,” Hanson

Hands Off continued on page A-12

HANDS OFF SCIENCE — Birgitta Meade, a science professor a Luther College, voiced opposition to the government’s mass layoff at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Meade crafted a sign listing a number of the terms scientific agencies have allegedly been told to refrain from using. (Photo by Denise Lana) “I could only fit 40 of the 160 words we are not supposed to say—words that scientists aren’t allowed to say if we want them to do their jobs,” Meade said, holding up her sign. “We have a problem with ignorance rather than evidence.”

HANDS OFF PUBLIC SCHOOLS — Melanie Tietz of Decorah, who served on the Decorah School Board for 12 years, voiced her disdain over the imbalance between public and private schools in Iowa. She noted, though private schools can receive taxpayer funds through the state’s educational savings account program, the private schools do not have to account for how the money is spent, nor are they required to accept special needs students — public schools are required to do both, she said.

“This is not about demonizing private schools,” Tietz said. “There is a need for diverse educational settings, but shouldn’t they all be subject to the same rules and expectations?”

Shortly afterward, two young boys asked permission to take the stage with a sign which read “Public School Proud.” (Photo by Denise Lana)

Correction April, 3, 2025 An article in the April, 3, 2025, edition of the Decorah Leader entitled “Council, engineers discuss Heivly Street Project” mistakenly referred to the consulting firm Erdman Engineering as Erdman Construction. Staff regrets the error.

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

A-3

GATHERING THE GIRLS FOR ANNUAL WOMEN’S WEEKEND OUT Decorah’s downtown businesses were once again in the spotlight April 4-6, during the 23rd annual Women’s Weekend Out. The yearly retail event was specifically designed to bolster local businesses during the beginning of the spring season, and officials with the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce said nine new storefronts had opened in Decorah since the 2024 event, making for a field of more than 50 participating businesses this year.

A number of locations offered instore specials and pop-up collaborations for the occasion.

TOP- Women’s Weekend Out shoppers Donna Farley, Joan Smedsrud and Mary Swinburn learned about Alainn Medical Aesthetics and Health from advanced registered nurse practitioner JoEllen Anderson (at left) during a pop-up event inside Agora Arts. LEFT- Meg Storkamp of Decorah distributed the Women’s Weekend Out swag bags at the chamber office during the weekend retail promotion.(Photos by Roz Weis)

Posing for a photo as they shop along the downtown Decorah shopping district during Women’s Weekend Out were (from left) Val Massman, Jennifer Wilson, Marsha Syverson, Carol Smith and Doreen Holstad.

Kaleb Lancaster (at left) answers questions from Beth Snitker of Postville at Mercantile 1028 on Water Street.

The new shop, owned by Lancaster and his partner Taylor Vagts held a grand opening in conjunction with the Women’s Weekend Out retail event over the weekend.

Debbie Paulson crafted one of the signature Women’s Weekend Out drinks at LaRana Bistro.

Sodexo rushing the proposal process while Luther was in the midst of hiring a new finance director.

Sodexo submitted notification to state officials regarding its expected change in service on March 13, as required by Iowa’s Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification — or WARN — Act. The layoffs are expected to take effect as of

June 30. Information from Iowa Workforce Development indicated federal requirements also instruct businesses with at least 100 employees to provide notice of mass layoffs at least 60 days in advance — Sodexo employs approximately 104,000 people in the United States and provides food services and facilities management to clients in 3,400 locations across the

country, according to the company’s website. Iowa Workforce Development’s WARN log shows the last mass layoff reported in Winneshiek County occurred in early 2021, when Collins Aerospace decreased its Decorah location’s staff by approximately 30 people.

Smith said Luther can’t speak to whether the college’s incoming food services provid-

County dairy promoters crown royalty Saturday Recognition was given to a number of royalty candidates during the Winneshiek County Dairy Promoters’ annual banquet Saturday night at the Festina Community Center. The 2025 members of the dairy promoters’ royal court were joined by fellow royalty selected earlier this year by the Winneshiek County Cattlemen’s Association. Pictured are (front row, left to right) 2025 Little Mr. Cowhand Gavyn Hageman, Little Mr. Herdsman Tristan Moellers, 2025 Little Mr. Herdsman Parker Mashek, 2025 Little Mr. Herdsman Hayden Schmitt, (middle row, left to right) 2025 Little Miss Cowgirl McKinnley McConnell, 2025 Little Miss Cowgirl Tianna Yoder, 2025 Beef Princess Madelynn Dahl, 2025 Dairy Princess Hanna Vagts, 2025 Beef Queen Haylee Hanson, 2025 Beef Princess Alayna Hageman and 2025 Little Miss Squirt Ali Hageman. (Photo by Denise Lana)

Winneshiek County Fair announces Saturday night grandstand entertainment

Frankie Ballard

Drew Baldridge

Officials with the Winneshiek County Fair recently announced a pair of musical acts expected to take the stage Saturday, July 12 during the 2025 fair.

Frankie Ballard released his new album “The Messenger” in March of 2025, blending the song-craft he learned on the Nashville scene with the grittiness and guitar heroism of his favorite blues and rock ’n’ roll records — Lightnin’ Hopkins; Elvis, Johnny Cash and the rest of the Sun Records legacy.

Drew Baldridge has achieved success during his career, with more than 350 million total catalog streams. His most recent song is entitled “Tough People.”

Tickets available on our website at www.winneshiekcountyfair.org for $35 per person — children age 8 and under may be admitted at no cost.

Gates will open at 6 p.m. the day of the event. continued from front

er will hire the 130 employees notified of the pending layoffs, noting the decision is not the college’s to make, but he indicated the recent state report may have caused the Decorah community some unnecessary heartburn.

“The impact will not be what people may infer initially,” Smith said. “We’ll have more that we can share soon.”

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OPINION

A-4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Difficult questions show us our tent poles don’t amount to towers Change, as they say, is inevitable.

And I would go so far as to say change is often a good thing.

BY SETH Earlier this week, I myself BOYES cleaned out a playlist I often use while reading — and I News Editor mean reading for enjoyment, not employment, just so we’re clear. I’m admittedly a pre-in- human beings and which, if ternet child who has become applied poorly, judge them unaccustomed to a post-internet fairly. I’ll be the first to admit pattern of digital life (though that my younger self, as many I’ll proudly tell you I’ve only folks do while they are comever owned two cell phones in ing of age, believed my stancmy entire life). So, of course, es — maybe not everyone’s but I’ve had some algorithmic help surely mine — were built upon in building my page-turning se- unshakable bedrock at the far lection of music over the years. end of the philosophical fronAnd it struck me the other day tier. And as such, I also believed how far my tastes in tranquil I had no reason to move from tunes have drifted since push- where I’d planted my flag. ing a handful of musical seeds Fortunately, I was wrong, and into my phone’s digital soil I did move. years ago — so much so that I eventually had to admit my I started deleting many of the own youthful hubris in light of original tracks which made up the examples set by a handful of that playlist. I found it strange strong yet kind and humble inhow my ears now find the list’s dividuals in my life. It was then keystone compositions shrill that I could see the solid tower and distracting — harsh, when I assured myself I’d constructed compared to the smooth and on the edge of the known conticalm instrumentals to which nent of morality and justice was I’m now partial. in fact not much more than a I use music as an example, camping tent I’d pitched on the because it’s easy. But the same nearest side of the parking lot concept can be applied more from which I’d started. broadly to life itself.

There are plenty of difficult There are many things we questions facing us all these hold onto tightly during our days, and I think it’s fair to younger years and which we say many of them have been simply outgrow as the years brought on by the difficult repassively sculpt our minds and ality in which we live and in bodies — physical things which which it sometimes seems become embarrassing to carry hardships multiply each day. as we grow. Yet, there are also Fortunately, difficult questions more ethereal things we choose also have a way of smoothing to shed, to cut away from our- out our rough edges — just not selves for the better and take always in a comfortable way. a more active role in our own Truly considering such quessculpting — habits, vices and tions may cause us to realize beliefs. our tentpoles don’t amount to a As with my easy-reading tower and are barely holding up playlist, a look back from the the heavy canvas we’ve draped perch of today often frames over it. Turning such questions some facets of my past self in on ourselves may bring on the ways which now seem harsh realization that the music we — even hurtful in some cases. once loved is indeed too shrill To put it another way, there are for our more experienced ears. times when I reflect on tenets In answering such questions, my teenage self held with ab- we may demand change from solute resolve and my only re- ourselves, but that’s alright. sponse is to cringe. And I’m not Change is inevitable, and I talking about things as simple would go so far as to say change as fashion choices (on the con- is often a good thing. trary, I have no regrets about my decision to wear orange tennis Agree with Seth? Think he’s shoes all through high school). got it completely backwards or No, I’m talking about more he’s missed the point entirely? difficult quandaries — things Let your voice be heard. Letters like human rights, immigration to the editor may be emailed to or religion. I’m talking about editor@decorahleader.com or the things which often shape dropped off at 110 Washington our perceptions of our fellow St. Suite 4 in Decorah.

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Support for a competitive gymnasium at the new Decorah elementary school The proposal for a competitive gymnasium at the new Decorah elementary school is not merely an enhancement; is is a necessity. The current high school gymnasium’s design, with its dangerously close baseline to the wall, poses significant safety risks to student athletes. This is our final opportunity to rectify this hazard and ensure a safe sporting environment for all student athletes.

Reminding lawmakers we are here Dear, Editor.

Below is the email I posted on each of the U.S. congressional delegate’s websites after the Hands Off event Saturday.

I have posted emails every other day since early February on each of the delegates’ websites.

I write one message then use the copy and paste function to complete the email. Each member of the delegation receives the same message and the time to communicate is about a half-anhour to post six messages.

I have no illusion any member of the delegation will be moved by a well crafted sentence or argument about an issue. The focus of my messages is “grow a spine and stand up for the Iowans you represent.”

The point of my effort is to add a number to the daily count of calls or emails received in a delegate’s office. I believe each of them needs to remember we are here, even if we are out of their sight.

“Push back is picking up” I am writing to report my experience at the Hands Off mass mobilization held Saturday, April 5 at Mary Christopher Park in Decorah, Iowa. Approximately 500 people participated

in the event held under a clear blue sky, with an eagle riding the air currents above our heads.

There were readings, songs and chants that touched our hearts.

A particularly touching reading is titled, “Then They Came for Me.” Speakers inspired us as they spoke about issues that affect the lives of every Iowan.

•Role of government •Resistance and action •Public education •Farming •Respect for veterans •Social services •Public land •Land and water quality •Science •Immigration in northeast Iowa •LGTBQ+ rights •Community The Hands Off mass mobilization held in Decorah was one of many held across the country. I hope you will be touched by news coverage of millions of Americans taking action in this Trump-and-Musk-created dire situation.

Elaine St. Clair Decorah

The atomic age and one other This country gives thanks to those who made it happen. A short time ago, we were told by our local newspaper of a new atomic submarine christened the USS Iowa. The two submariners pictured were veterans of the nuclear age.

Let’s go back before this time when a young Decorah man, Bob Hunt, began his submarine service as the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. They made a fatal mistake by not bombing the submarine facilities and oil reserves.

Bob’s submarine was not nuclear-powered nor did it have atomic missiles. It was driven by diesel engines and batter-

ies, making life uncomfortable.

Their only offense was torpedoes fired by complex mechanical devices.

Submarines provided a singular effort in winning the Pacific war. Bob survived a record number of dangerous missions until the day Japan surrendered.

His length of war service was highly unusual.

Bob returned home and life resumed. He helped author the book “We Were Pirates.” A must-read for this history-making time..

John Carver Decorah

Addressing safety concerns The proximity of the gym floor baseline to the wall in the high school gymnasium has long been a hazard. Athletes constantly face the risk of injury due to the lack of adequate run-off space. Constructing a new gymnasium with proper measurements would eliminate this danger, creating a safer environment for all sports participants.

Alleviating space shortages Decorah has historically struggled with inadequate gym space, a problem that has adversely affected the entire community. A new competitive gymnasium would serve as a much-needed resource, providing ample playing space to accommodate various indoor sports. This would not only benefit the school but also the broader community, including local sports clubs and recreational activities.

Fostering community and student engagement The lack of gym space in Decorah has limited opportunities for physical activities, which are crucial for the holistic development of students and the community as a whole.

A new gymnasium would fill this void, offering a venue for diverse sporting events. This space could host basketball, volleyball, badminton and more, fostering a spirit of engagement and teamwork among students and community members alike.

Seizing a unique opportunity This proposal represents a significant opportunity for Decorah. Failure to seize it would mean a great loss for our community. By investing in a new competitive gymnasium, we ensure that future generations have access to a safe, versatile and community-centered facility. This gymnasium would be a symbol of progress and a commitment to the well-being of our citizens and students.

In conclusion, supporting the construction of a competitive gymnasium at the new Decorah elementary school is a decision that prioritizes safety, addresses long-standing space issues, and fosters community engagement.

Let us not miss this chance to provide our community with a facility that meets its needs and enhances the quality of life for everyone involved.

Sincerely, Andy Nelson Decorah

‘We need friends, not enemies’

Dear editor, I have walked past the WinnMed building project numerous times from its beginning as a big hole to its current enclosed state. Having recently watched our own home being constructed, I am aware of how much time, energy, material, money and knowhow are involved: financing, planning, design, excavation, footings, framing, plumbing, electrical and finishing. To build anything well is an act of integrity and love.

To build a hospital is an act of love for the benefit of many.

I believe that addition will cost around $50 million; but we are a wealthy country and can somehow raise the funds.

How would we feel if another country just dropped a bomb on WinnMed? Poof, gone, not even sorry.

Yemen by contrast is one of the poorest countries in the world with a population of 35 million. They were in the process of building their only cancer hospital. And a US bomb has destroyed that hospital. Since then we have bombed Yemen’s

civilian housing and infrastructure 65 times in 48 hours. And there is talk of more to come.

Bombing another country that has done nothing to threaten our home security is an act of war. But have you heard any debate in Congress, any rationale for this, any discussion of the consequences? I have not. Yet Article 1, sec 8 states that the power to declare war is vested in Congress.

The aggression on Yemen looks to me like “the divine right of a king.” Rule by one person.

I have called our representatives to ask why they have not performed the duty for which they were elected: to scrutinize all actions of the executive and abide by the Constitution. I urge you to do the same. This hateful destruction is being done in our name. We need friends, not enemies. We deserve accountability from those entrusted with our foreign affairs and constitutional process.

Julie Fischer Decorah

Echoes of the Past

Paving letting draws big crowds

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER The paving of roads in Winneshiek County was a top priority back in the 1920s. According to the headlines from March of 1925, the Decorah Council Chambers were packed with contractors and paving supply men.

They were all in attendance to submit bids (in-person) for paving of 14 blocks in Decorah that spring. Outside companies turned in bids, but the secured bid would be awarded to Fred Carlson, Decorah’s well known paving contractor at the time. The price secured was “a very good one too,” being $2.40 a square yard

for eight-inch reinforced concrete. The other bids came in at $2.70 and $2.80 per square yard. One of the streets (Washington Street) was to be paved with brick.

Carlson’s bid for that work was $1 per yard where old brick was used, and $2.50 per yard for new brick. Work would start in May and was projected to be complete before Sept 1. The front-page news article in 1925 (a bit flowery, but that’s how they wrote stories back then) closes with these words: “The

Echoes

continued on page A-5

Carlson Company circa 1925

A vintage ad for the Fred Carlson Company of Decorah - from the spring of 1925. The company was founded in Decorah by Fred's brother Victor in 1897. Fred and his partner, Albin Cannon, purchased the business in 1901. Back then, they built sidewalks and curbing in the area. Albin returned to Sweden and sold his part of the business to Fred a few years later. Fred's first paving contract was in Cresco in 1913. Fred's son Hjalmar later became associated with the business. When Fred Carlson took charge of the business, the annual gross receipts were between $8,000 and $12,000 ... and the rest is history.

OBITUARIES/NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Jamie Henry

Richard Blazek

March 30, 1977 – March 31, 2025 Jamie Lee Henry, 48, of Riceville, died March 29, 2025, from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. He remained under medical surveillance for two days following the accident to prepare him for organ do- Jamie Henry nation.

Born on March 30, 1977, in Decorah, Jamie was the son of Terry “Buck” Henry and Jane (Houdek) Henry. He grew up in Cresco, attending Crestwood Elementary and Crestwood High School.

Jamie’s childhood was filled with adventure and mischief, often leading to unforgettable stories. He loved spending time at his Grandpa Ralph’s in

Decorah, raising a ruckus and making memories. One of his most legendary stories occurred when he was 13, he thought it would be funny to moon a passing car, only to discover his mother was the driver.

In 1995, Jamie welcomed his son, Tanner Ray Henry. On Sept. 20, 2003, he married Amy (Ullom) Henry, and together they had two children, Skylar Rose (2004) and Talon Robert (2008). Though Jamie and Amy later divorced, he still always cherished his family.

Jamie had an unmatched energy, especially when it came to his children. He built forts in the living room, initiated Nerf wars and never hesitated to camp out on the trampoline for a night during the summer. He spent countless hours wrestling and playing UFC with his kids, and Sundays were reserved for

football with Tanner and Talon, complete with frantic runs to the kitchen for popcorn and nachos during commercial breaks.

He especially had a soft spot for Skylar, which meant shopping trips, face masks, painted nails and getting his makeup done.

All were done with a grin on his face because if his kids were happy, he was happy.

Beyond his devotion to his family, Jamie found joy in hunting, watching sports, and riding his motorcycle. His favorite memories include turkey hunting with his older brother, Jake, his trip to Alabama with his younger brother, Josh, and discussing cars with his dad. Jamie was employed as a Supervisor with McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing in Riceville.

Jamie is survived by his parents, Terry “Buck” and Jane Henry; his brothers, Jason

“Jake” Henry (Shaonda) and Josh (Sara) Henry; his beloved children: Tanner, Skylar and Talon Henry; grandson, Hudson Henry; nephews, Jace and Kyler; and niece, Rylee.

Jamie was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Ralph and Lois Houdek; paternal grandparents, Richard and Rose Henry; aunt, Donna Harnack; uncles: Clifford Harnack, Allen Henry and Sonny Henry; and niece, Patricia Harnack.

His spirit, humor and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Visitation will be held from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, April 12 at Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home in Cresco. A prayer service led by Pastor Tim Sir will begin at 4 p.m.

Alan Becker

July 24, 1948 -March 29, 2025 Richard “Dick” James Blazek, 76, formerly of Lawler, died suddenly on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at University of Iowa Heath Care Medical Center in Iowa City from a rare form of leuRichard Blazek kemia.

Dick was born in New Hampton on July 24, 1948, to Edward and Eleanora Blazek and grew up on the family farm north of Lawler. He enjoyed spending time there throughout his life; he planted and nurtured a beautiful flower garden and was particularly proud of the restored barn where he hosted parties.

Dick graduated from Turkey Valley High Class of 1966 and completed his bachelor’s and

were blessed with three daughters.

Alan taught various courses during his 30-year career at Turkey Valley, including U.S. History, Geography, Global Studies and Futuristics. He did not rely on textbooks but instead developed his own teaching units representing diverse perspectives. For 10 years, Alan taught a class at Luther College on methods of teaching social studies. After retiring in 2000, he served as a mentor for new teachers.

Service to community was Alan’s guiding principle. He was a longtime member of Calmar Community United Methodist Church where he served as the recording secretary and wrote a monthly newsletter for many years. His baritone voice was prominent during hymns.

In Fort Atkinson, he served as a volunteer firefighter (18 years) and was a member of the Friends of Fort Atkinson Rendezvous Committee, Museum Committee, Historic Preservation Committee and Centennial Book Committee. Alan also partnered with the Office of the State Archeologist and served as a Project Director of several archaeological investigations of the Turkey River Winnebago Indian Subagency Site.

After retiring, Alan coordi-

nated an annual school day in conjunction with the Fort Atkinson Rendezvous Days. A teacher at heart, he trained volunteers (including community members and his family) to lead educational tours of the military post. Wearing his skunk hat and carting around tubs of artifacts, Alan and LuAnne visited 80 schools to present on the historic Fort (2001-2011).

Alan and LuAnne led the “Backpack Program” with Northeast Iowa Food Bank to assemble and deliver backpacks of weekend food to local schools (2007-2015). They led a Weaving Bee program where volunteers wove 100 plastic sleeping mats (2017-2024).

Alan faithfully came prepared to share several jokes with the volunteers during their coffee break.

Alan and LuAnne were recognized with the Turkey Valley Friends of Education award, South Winneshiek Friends of Education award, KWWL TV Someone You Should Know Award and the Governor’s Volunteer Award for outstanding contribution of volunteer service. In 2021, Alan was inducted into the Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame for his leadership in archaeological, historic preservation for more than 30 years.

Above all else was his fam-

ily. Alan enjoyed volunteering, car rides, visiting his favorite restaurants and playing Yahtzee with LuAnne. He encouraged his daughters in their athletic, musical and service activities. More recently, he loved supporting his grandchildren in their activities. He was an amazing man and positively impacted many lives throughout his years teaching and giving back to the community.

Alan is survived by his wife, LuAnne; daughters: Karla (Nicholas) Wysocki of Rochester, Minnesota, Angela (Scott) Becker Kudelka of St. Paul, Minnesota, and Lisa (Steven McGinley) Becker of St. Charles, Minnesota; his sister, Betty (Marvin) Wulf of Booneville, Missouri; and grandchildren Jaden, Shaun, Iris and Leo. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 12 at United Methodist Church, 208 W. Main St., Calmar, with Pastor Karen Carlton presiding.

Burial will be at Calmar City Cemetery at a later date.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Friday, April 11 at Helms Funeral Home – Chekal Chapel, 201 E. Main, Fort Atkinson. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of service Saturday at the church.

James (Jim) Murray, 63, died Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, at his home in Calmar. He was a beloved husband, father, son, sibling, uncle, grandfather and friend.

Jim was born on March 4, 1961, in James Murray Boscobel, Wisconsin to John and Lela (Feakes) Murray. He attended South Winneshiek School, but due to a critical accident he finished his schooling later in life by earning his GED. As a young man, he tended bar at the Cavern in Decorah. He later followed in his father’s footsteps and began work at Foremost Farms USA (Wisconsin Dairy). He then worked for TreeHouse Foods (formally Bay Valley Foods) in New Hampton.

Jim enjoyed many activities, including hunting, fishing and woodworking. He also spent several years devoted to the Boy Scout Association where he and his son excelled and reached high honors. Jim earned his Leadership Wood Badge and son Zack the Eagle Scout Badge. After leaving the workforce and dealing with health issues, Jim branched into rock-hunting, jewelry-making

continued from page A-4

100

YEARS AGO: 1925 – A young fellow recently arrested by Sheriff Christen has been arrested again for taking an auto from Lime Springs. He was out selling Ku Klux Klan papers on the streets of Decorah, an occupation that didn’t bring him any credit either. The Klan papers reportedly didn’t bring him enough revenue, and his next occupation he indulged in was bootlegging. He was around Decorah last week and was captured again. …A new half-cent postage stamp is being issued for the first time by April 1, 1925. The new stamp became necessary because of new postal rates on third class mail. The stamp bears the picture of President Harding. …a baseball team for Decorah for 1925 is now under way, with a meeting of fans held recently at the Legion Hall. Organizers say there is plenty of

and knife-crafting. He was also passionate about motorcycles and traveling.

He is survived by his wife, Stacey Haas-Murray of Calmar; his children, Zackariah (Krysta) Murray of Decorah and Mikaila Murray of Cresco; mother, Lela (Feakes) Murray of Ossian; mother-in-law, Tessa Haas of Searcy, Arkansas; grandchild, Sadie Rose Murray of Decorah; stepchildren: Megan Brumley of Cairo, Missouri, Michelle Young of Decorah and Mitchell (Sarah) Bland of Bald Knob, Arkansas; step-grandchildren: Gracie, Avery, Reagan, Jasper, Grainger, Langston, Tylei, Tyson, Gunar and Allie; siblings: Terry Murray of San Antonio, Texas, Fred (Diana) Murray of Fredericksburg, John Jr. (Nancy) Murray of Lansing and Mary (Frank Karnik) Murray of Fort Atkinson; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Jim was met in heaven by his father, John Murray Sr.; sister, Cathy Murray; paternal grandparents, Fredrick and Katherine; and maternal grandparents, Wayne and Florence Feakes.

His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

A private Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, April 12 at Whiskey Grove in Calmar. Friends are invited to join from 2-5 p.m.

Service Notice

Echoes fact that Fred Carlson is getting the contract is very gratifying to the people of Decorah, as everybody knows he will give the city a first-class, honest job.

His work in the past has proven high class, and wherever he has laid paving, the people are always highly satisfied.”

Here are some other interesting news headlines from that era:

master’s degrees at the University of Iowa. He was an artist, published author, graphic designer at the University of Iowa Foundation for over 30 years, and a long-time Iowa City resident. Dick loved good food, fine wine and spending time with family and friends.

Dick is survived by older brother, Bill (Alice) Blazek of Cedar Rapids; twin brother, Bob, of Lawler; younger sister, Jane, of Madison, Wisconsin; niece, Colleen (Jeff) Lowe of Marion; nephew, Brian Blazek of Barcelona, Spain; and niece, Amy Davis of Cincinnati, Ohio.

A celebration of life is being planned by the family. Contributions to “Memory of Richard Blazek at: Bank Iowa, Box 269, Lawler, IA 52154” will be distributed to Iowa art and conservation interests.

James Murray

March 4, 1961 -Feb 9, 2025

July 19, 1940 -March 31, 2025 Alan Clyde Becker, 84, of Fort Atkinson, died March 31, 2025, at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Alan was born to Clyde and Esther Becker in Independence, Iowa, on July 19, 1940, and grew up on Alan Becker a farm near Lamont, Iowa. He graduated from Lamont High School in 1958 and Upper Iowa University in 1962 with a bachelor’s degree in social studies.

Alan taught one year at Arlington High School before being drafted. He served in the Army from 1963-65 and was stationed at Fort Eustis in Virgina.

After the service, Alan taught and coached at Wheatland High School (1965-70). He took graduate courses in the summers and obtained a master’s degree in history education from Northeast Missouri State University.

In 1970, Alan was hired as a social studies teacher at Turkey Valley Community School in Jackson Junction. During his first year at Turkey Valley, he began dating the art teacher, LuAnne Burns. They were married on July 31, 1971, and they

A-5

good material for a 1925 team.

A committee has been elected to promote the team. Among the members of the committee is Edwin Haugen. He is proprietor of the cigar and candy store in the former Citizens.

Savings Bank building, and he is a good baseball booster.

Formation of the team is under way. …The average cost of concrete pavement in Iowa is about $30,000 per mile. This figure came up for discussion as local leaders debate paving or gravel of the county roads.

Cost of gravel surfacing is about $3,000 to $5,000 per mile, depending on how readily accessible gravel is. Cost of maintenance is much less for the paving, according to a county engineer. …From the society pages of 1925: Mr. and Mrs. David Hexom of the city, two of Decorah’s highly respected citizens, recently celebrated their golden wedding anniversary at the parlors of the F.N.E.L. Church after morning services.

Prof. Carlo A. Sperati played a wedding march while guests assembled at the church. Rev. Torrison was the toastmaster and gave an appropriate talk in honor of the esteemed couple. Mr. and Mrs. Hexom were married in 1875 at the Luther College Chapel in Decorah.

They reside in a comfortable

home on Upper Broadway. …The biggest value offered the women of this vicinity in many a day are the new fullcut, well-tailored Lingette Bloomers at Connor-Knight Department Store. They are only $1 and are in all the leading shades of colors. …The Young Peoples Bible Class of the Congregational Church will present a home talent play “Come Out of the Kitchen” later this month at the Grand Opera. Tickets are 75 cents, and they can be reserved at M.J. Soukup’s store. This is a high-class comedy, and not to be missed. …FRONT PAGE RECIPE from 1925: A Jello Salad: Dissolve a package of lemon Jello in ½ pint boiling water. Add ½ pint canned tomato soup, 1 cup chopped celery and ½ c. chopped olives. Salt to taste.

Set away to harden and serve with some good, whipped cream or any good, cooked dressing. From Mrs. Elmer H. Parman of Decorah. …One of the finest little machines for big work that we have ever seen is a valve grinding and reseating machine installed by the Windle Motor Company. Ford users will be happy with the addition. …FOR SALE Good farmland. 160 acres for $200 an acre. …Winneshiek County has

in the neighborhood of 2,300 dogs, and to date only 1,495 dog licenses have been issued.

The law requires all delinquent dog owners must pay their licenses before May 1. So, if you own a dog – pay the license. …National Bank of Decorah is paying 4 percent interest on savings. …Representatives of the Monte Oil Company here in town report their kerosene is the best you can buy for tractor use! …Nels Askelson, one of the well-known pioneers of Bluffton Township has died. He had reached his 93rd year. …Going to Chicago? A new pullman has been added to the Chicago Great Western Railways. The new service enables a passenger to retire any time after 9 p.m., insuring a full night’s rest. The train car leaves at 1:50 a.m., and makes only two scheduled stops, arriving in Chicago at 8:30 a.m. Breakfast is included in the dining car.

H.F. Dale, insurance agent at the Decorah State Bank building, is selling health insurance for $5 per year. This protection is for able-bodied males and females ages 16 to 65 years.

A medical examination is required.

90

YEARS AGO: 1935 – Country School Su-

perintendent Charles Stoen of Decorah recently met with the schoolhouse building committee and marked the corners for the new Kendallville School.

The building will be started as soon as the roads are fit. The brick will be hauled from Mason City. …A 113-acre farm in Fort Atkinson brought $61 per acre.

The Fred Hageman place was sold to J.M. Huber. …FRONT-PAGE NEWS: Toby’s Beauty Shop in the Winneshiek Hotel has a fresh coat of paint – ivory with tints of green. …Following the trail of the stork from February of 1935: Mr. and Mrs. Leo Bruening of this city had a son on Feb. 12. …Coast-to-Coast Store is hiring Lawrence Wideking according to owner Leo Tekippe.

He will move here with his family from Cresco. …Oscar Tovson and Miss Mariam Ness are the new proprietors of the Ness Cleaners at 413 West Water Street. They both worked for Simon Ness, who conducted a laundry business here. …Carl’s Bakery has an ad for delicious, cream-filled bismarks - 12 cents per dozen. According to the advertisement, last Saturday they sold over 800 of these special filled buns on account of how they are so delicious!

EDMOND MERTZENICH, 91 of Decorah, died Friday, April 4, 2025, at Aase Haugen Senior Services in Decorah, surrounded by his family. A requiem mass was held Wednesday, April 9 at St. Joseph’s of Harmony in Harmony, Minn., with Rev. Carlos Borja presiding. Burial was in St. Benedict Cemetery in Decorah.

Obituaries can be emailed to

lifestyles@ decorahnewspapers.com

…Dr. A.R. Rikansrud, a chiropractor, has opened an office in Decorah over the Woolworth Store. …The local hospital and Luther College each received a bequest of $2,500 from the Otto Svebakken estate. Dr. Svebakken died as a result of an auto accident in Florida a little more than a year ago. …The Decorah Posten has purchased a large Norwegian newspaper called the Minneapolis Tidende.

NEWS

A-6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Bachmurski’s attorneys question timeline of teen’s disappearance in murder case

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR Defense attorneys representing a former Decorah man accused of murdering a teenage girl in 2017 are now seeking additional documentation they believe may indicate the teen was alive after her reported disappearance.

James David Bachmurski faces a charge of second-degree murder for the death of 15-yearold Jade Marie Colvin, whom investigators believe was at Bachmurski’s rural home south of Decorah in March of 2017.

Colvin was reported missing to the Des Moines Police Department on June 10, 2016, and information from the U.S. Justice Department’s National Missing and Unidentified Persons System said her last known date of contact with her family occurred in March of 2017. However, Bachmurski’s attorneys filed a request last week for a subpoena to obtain records and other information from Iowa’s Department of Health and Human Services, saying a timeline state officials provided in regard to Colvin’s activities did not fully align with information already provided to the defense.

“For example, one or more police reports state that the DHHS worker for Jade Colvin contacted law enforcement and reported that Jade’s mother knew where Jade was at a year or more after Jade’s alleged disappearance,” Bachmurski’s attorneys wrote.

The defense previously sought a subpoena for information from the National Cen-

James David Bachmurski

Jade Colvin

ter for Missing and Exploited Children related to a possible sighting of Colvin during August of 2021 in Harvey, Illinois — about 240 miles from Decorah — and a separate subpoena was requested in January of 2025, seeking what the defense called “the alleged victim’s prior history of runaway behavior” and “specific tangible items of evidence regarding her methods and plans,” which Bachmurski’s attorney believed to be in the possession of the Ames Police Department. The court also issued an order in February, allowing an employee of Iowa’s Department of Health and Human Services to provide information which would otherwise be confidential if the employee testifies during Bachmurski’s pending trial — the same court order allowed the DHS employee to potentially disclose confidential information to Bachmurski’s attorney during a deposition that month.

The latest subpoena requested by Bachmurski’s attorneys seeks the Department of Health and Human Serives’ complete file on Colvin. The court has agreed to review the requested materials and potentially take

steps to ensure any legally confidential information in the file is not disclosed when the file is given to attorneys in the case.

The case against Bachmurski is currently scheduled to go to trial on Aug. 4.

Initial court filings said March 30 was Colvin’s last known contact The U.S. Marshal Service contacted the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office in May of 2022, saying Colvin was believed to have been in Winneshiek County prior to her disappearance in 2016 — Colvin’s case was one of more than two dozen taken up by the USMS in December of 2020, as part of an effort called Operation Homecoming.

By the spring of 2022, marshals had identified a number of individuals to interview regarding the teen’s disappearance.

The investigation was turned over to the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office following the interviews, and the sheriff’s office then launched a local investigation with the aid of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Winneshiek County Attorney’s Office.

Fest honors continued from front police and as the city’s liaison to the Nordic Fest Board of Directors before retiring in 2023.

Smutzler first experienced Nordic Fest in 1991 as a rookie police officer assigned to the overnight shift. One of his earliest responsibilities was placing no parking signs in the thick summer heat — an exhausting but essential task. Despite the challenges, Smutzler quickly grew to love the festival, volunteering for as many extra shifts as possible. Even early on, he noted how Nordic Fest transformed the town, bringing an influx of visitors, lively energy and a feast of flavors to enjoy.

Smutzler is an avid canoer, a passion which blends seamlessly with one of his favorite Nordic Fest events - the Kanoløpet.

He has not only participated in the canoe race but claimed victories in 2008, 2010 and 2011.

The weekend’s other sporting events are among his fest favorites too, along with the diverse entertainment lineup.

When Smutzler became Decorah Police Chief, he was invited to join the Nordic Fest Board of Directors. The opportunity provided a vital, new avenue for collaboration between law enforcement and event organizers, especially in areas such as traffic control, public safety and the restructuring of the beverage garden.

A true Nordic Fest enthusiast, Smutzler has attended nearly every Nordic Fest since 1991.

He said lefse is his favorite Nordic Fest treat — hands down — with butter and sugar, and he

always gets two rolls to enjoy both sugar variations. Smutzler said Nordic Fest has always been “the great reunion,” a time when families gather, old classmates reconnect and the streets fill with familiar faces. Now retired, he experiences the festival from a new perspective — enjoying concerts with his family, dining downtown and watching the parade with his grandson Pax. 2025 Nordic Fest Grand Marshal Diane Ott Whealy The Nordic Fest Grand Marshal is an individual or individuals who have provided outstanding services to the community.

Since 1975, Diane Ott Whealy has been a powerful advocate for preserving agricultural heritage and fostering community. As co-founder of Seed Savers Exchange, she has helped safeguard heirloom seeds and promote biodiversity, leaving a lasting mark on Decorah and beyond.

Whealy’s journey in seed preservation began in Missouri with Seed Savers Exchange co-founder Kent Whealy.

What started with a few cherished seeds and a shared dream evolved into a globally recognized nonprofit. In 1984, she and her family moved Seed Savers’ growing operations to Decorah, drawn by her childhood ties to the area and the town’s welcoming spirit. She said attending Nordic Fest that summer confirmed Decorah

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was the right place to call home.

Today, Seed Savers Exchange is headquartered at Heritage Farm, a 900-acre sanctuary in Decorah’s Driftless Region.

The farm is home to more than 25,500 seed varieties, including 640 potato strains, 1,042 apple trees and 340 grape vines. It serves as a hub for conservation, education and community connection, offering walking trails, gardens and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Through Whealy’s leadership, Seed Savers has not only preserved genetic diversity but also enriched Decorah — creating jobs, attracting global visitors and infusing the community with cultural and agricultural richness.

“We did our homework and chose Decorah, and we haven’t regretted it since,” she said.

“What started with a handful of seeds and a dream has flourished because of passion, community support and good timing.”

Whealy believes seeds are more than biology — they’re cultural heritage. Her grandfather brought seeds over to the United States from Bavaria, and Whealy sees a parallel with Norwegian immigrants who brought their own varieties to Iowa. Seed Savers Exchange has even helped return heirloom seeds to their countries of origin, reconnecting people with their agricultural roots.

Beyond her work, Whealy has embraced Decorah’s traditions.

A former Nordic Dancer parent, she treasures Nordic Fest — especially the parade, the dancers and favorite foods like rømmegrøt and varme pølse. Organizers said her presence continues to strengthen the bonds between land, legacy and local life.

Information released by the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office in August of 2024 said Colvin’s mother brought the teen to Iowa from Arizona to live with Bachmurski at his rural Decorah residence in the early spring of 2017. A criminal complaint filed against Bachmurski claimed he had “encouraged and participated in a one-on-one relationship with Jade Colvin via electronic messaging” without the mother’s knowledge for approximately a month before Colvin arrived in Decorah, and Bachmurski allegedly “used some of his own money to facilitate Jade Colvin being brought to his residence in March of 2017.”

The teenager had planned to contact friends after arriving in Iowa, according to court documents, but her phone was said to have reception issues at that time, and Bachmurski claimed he allowed Colvin to use his phone. A criminal complaint indicated investigators were able to confirm Colvin had used Bachmurski’s cell phone during the early morning hours of March 30, 2017.

“Since that time, Jade Colvin has never spoken with family or friends and has never been seen or heard from again,” a criminal complaint said.

Court documents said Bachmurski’s son saw Colvin’s suitcase and other property at his family’s farmhouse months after Colvin was last seen, and a criminal complaint claimed Bachmurski himself “lied and told others that Jade Colvin had gone somewhere after her last text, while the investiga-

tion showed she was no longer alive.”

Bachmurski had considered contacting law enforcement while Colvin was at his home, according to a criminal complaint, but he felt “if he had alerted law enforcement that he had a runaway girl at his house, it would not have turned out good for him.”

Bachmurski left for Georgia during firearms case A sheriff’s deputy had previously investigated a separate case involving Bachmurski approximately five years before Colvin’s disappearance, after claims the then 54-year-old Bachmurski had used ratchet straps to tie his son to a metal folding chair “and shocked him multiple times on the arm with an electric fence charger.” Filings in that case went on to say Bachmurski also “repeatedly threatened to shoot his sons,” saying they were “not worth the price of the bullet it would take to kill them,” and that “he could shoot them and bury them in the backyard and no one would know.”

A deferred judgement was entered in that case. Bachmurski was placed on probation and was prohibited from possessing firearms.

A sheriff’s deputy performing a welfare/probation check in early January of 2018 — about 14 months after Colvin’s last known contact — discovered a loaded .223 caliber Stevens rifle in a closet at Bachmurski’s home. Bachmurski was charged three days later with possession

of a firearm by a felon.

Bachmurski’s attorney in that case lost contact with his client in early 2019, telling the court Bachmurski had sold his Decorah home and was not responding to calls or text messages. The 65-year-old was later listed as residing in Swainsboro, Georgia, at least six months before Colvin was allegedly sighted in Illinois — Bachmurski was accused of forcing himself on a woman there, cutting her clothing off with a box cutter and physically assaulting her, but that case was dismissed by a district attorney after the victim failed to appear for a grand jury.

Authorities investigating Colvin’s disappearance were able to interview Bachmurski at some point in 2023, according to Iowa court records, and they asked Bachmurski if he recognized a picture of Colvin.

“I do,” Bachmurski was quoted as saying. “I’m not gonna lie. I do. As a matter of fact, I’ll guarantee you I’m getting myself in a lot of trouble. I want to tell the truth.”

Authorities served Bachmurski a warrant on June 20, 2024, for his possession of the Stevens rifle. The 65-year-old was transported from the Emanuel County Jail in Georgia to the Winneshiek County Jail, where he was served a warrant in the local murder case on Aug. 12, 2024 — more than seven years after Jade Colvin disappeared.

Bachmurski remains in custody at the Winneshiek County Jail on a $1 million bond.

Eight arrested following narcotics investigation

Erin Elizabeth Chambers

Raymond Delagarza

Mandy Jo Hammond

Faith Ellen Hill

Paige Lynn Johanningmeier

Marissa Michelle Kelty

Mitchell Joseph Kubik

Lucas Harold O’Neill

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said eight people were arrested following an investigation into the trafficking of narcotics in Winneshiek County.

Court records said investigators examined various phone records, social media accounts, electronic currency transactions and other evidence over a number of months and determined 33-year-old Marissa Michelle Kelty of Decorah “conspired with one or more persons to deliver more than 5 grams of methamphetamine” between Feb. 4 and Feb. 26. The complaint also accused Kelty of using her John Street residence as a gathering point for drug-related activity.

The sheriff’s office, with assistance from Decorah Police Department and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, executed multiple search warrants around 7 a.m. Friday, April 4 at five different residences — 309 John St., 1015 South Mechanic St., 508 Plum St. and

803 East Pearl St. in Decorah as well as 2480 Dogwood Rd. in the Freeport area. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services assisted at residences in which children were present.

Eight subjects were taken into custody and transported to the Winneshiek County Jail that day.

Kelty was charged with controlled substance violation — methamphetamine — and gathering where controlled substances are being used. Court records also show 42-year-old Lucas Harold Oneill of Decorah was charged with failure to affix a drug tax stamp and possession of a controlled substance — marijuana — second offense, after a search of his Mechanic Street home yeilded approximately 14 grams of psilocybin mushrooms and around 4 grams of marijuana. In addition, 41-year-old Raymond Delagarza, 42-year-old Erin Elizabeth Chambers and 29-year-old Paige Lynn Johanningmeier — each of Decorah — were charged with possession of methamphetamine. Faith Ellen Hill, age 39,

of Decorah was charged with possession of marijuana. Mandy Jo Hammond, age 37, of Eldorado was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia, and 37-year-old Mitchell Joseph Kubik of Postville was charged with possession of a controlled substance — second offense — and possession of drug paraphernalia in addition to violation of sex offender registry requirements.

A criminal complaint filed against Kubik said, while the 37-year-old’s permanent address was listed as being in Postville, he admitted to staying at the Dogwood Road residence in Freeport for a number of weeks without reporting his temporary address to authorities — court records also listed the Freeport address as the home of Delagarza, Johanningmeier and Hammond.

The sheriff’s office said the case remains under investigation, adding additional warrants and charges may be pending.

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Community briefs NEI3A to host caregiver support group meetings

Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging — or NEI3A — will be hosting monthly in-person support group meetings from 10-11 am. on the first and third Mondays of each month. The meetings will be held at NEI3A’s office, located at 915 Short St., Suite 169, in Decorah. This is a free group, and all caregivers of people with chronic illnesses or disabilities, including new caregivers, are welcome and encouraged to attend. No reservations are needed. For more information, contact Kelly Kuennen, family caregiver specialist with NEI3A, at 563277-6024. Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging serves 18 counties in northeast Iowa and is one of six Area Agencies on Aging in Iowa.

DPL to host author Markward

The Decorah Public Library will host author and former Cedar Rapids Community School District Superintendent Dave Markward as he discusses his memoir “From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond: My Journey to Understand Racism in America.” Markward’s presentation will take place at 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29 in the mezzanine at Decorah Public Library.

This presentation is free and open to the public. No advance registration is required. For more information, contact Decorah Public Library at 563-3823717 or visit decorahlibrary. org.

Preus Library to host annual National Library Week book sale

The Luther College Preus Library will hold its annual National Library Week Book Sale April 7-12. Thousands of hardcover and paperback books will be available for purchase.

Prices start at $5 for hardcovers and $2 for paperbacks and will decline daily beginning Tuesday, April 8. The library will be open from 7:30 a.m. to midnight Monday, April 7, through Thursday, April 10. The library will be open 7:30 a.m to 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 11, and from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 12.

Northeast Iowa Peace and Justice Center offering grant funding

The Northeast Iowa Peace and Justice Center is providing grant support for causes which promote peace and justice. Individuals less than 25 years old may apply for cash grants of up to $250. Individual applicants over age 25 as well as organizations may apply for grants which will be matched dollar for dollar up to $250. A limited number of grants will be awarded this spring. The first round of applications was expected to be reviewed by April 10 with awards granted by April 20. The second round will be reviewed

by May 10 and awarded by May 20. Successful applicants must submit a brief summary of the project and its impact within two months of the project’s conclusion. Grant funds may be used for travel expenses but not air travel.

Iowa PBS’s Road Trip Iowa to feature Driftless Area

Places along the Driftless Area Scenic Byway will be featured on an upcoming episode of Iowa PBS’s new series Road Trip Iowa. The episode will premiere at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 9 and be rebroadcast at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 12. The episode is expected to include

stops at Yellow River State Forest in Harpers Ferry, Steel Cow in Waukon, City Meat Market in New Albin, Dunning’s Spring Park in Decorah, Toppling Goliath Brewing Company in Decorah, Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah and Luna Valley Farm near Decorah. The show’s April 15 episode will feature Spillville’s Bily Clocks Museum and Antonin Dvorak Exhibit as well as several locations in Elkader, McGregor, West Union and Clermont. In addition to statewide broadcasts, Iowa PBS, WORLD and Create are available to livestream on iowapbs. org/live, pbs.org/livestream and the PBS app.

NMP offering scholarship opportunity

Are you a graduating senior who has been involved in drama? All graduating high school seniors involved in drama productions are encouraged to consider applying for a scholarship from New Minowa Players.

The scholarship is for students graduating from an area high school who plan to attend an accredited college or vocational school. The New Minowa Players are looking for students who have shown strong involvement in drama in school or in the community. Preference will be given to students who have participated in NMP shows and who intend to continue that involvement in some way. Applications must be submitted by May 1, 2025. For more information, visit NewMinowaPlayers.org/scholarships.

Griesheimer to present on Ole Bull

The Sons of Norway Valdres Lodge will meet on Tuesday, April 15 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church — 701 Iowa Ave. in Decorah. . The meeting feature a presentation by James Griesheimer, entitled “Ole Bull: Norway’s Great Violin Virtuoso.” The presentation will begin at 7:30 p.m. following a lodge meeting at 7 p.m. The public is invited to attend, and refreshments will be available following the presentation. Ole Bull was born Feb. 5, 1810, in Bergen, Norway, and died Aug. 17, 1880, in Lysøen, near Bergen. He was a Norwegian violinist, composer and nationalist known for his unique performance method and for starting a short-lived utopian community in Pennsylvania called New Norway, or Oleana. He gave thousands of concerts, including one in Decorah at the Steyer Opera House. He was also a mentor to the famed Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg.

Griesheimer hails from Ohio. A former Fulbright scholar and professional oboist, he taught courses in music history at Luther College and is an associate professor emeritus. He was ordained as an Episcopal priest in 2010 and has served as pastor at Grace Episcopal Church in Decorah — and has also officiated the weddings of several Luther students.

German American Museum to hold Maifest at Pivo Brewery

The German American Museum of St. Lucas plans to hold a Maifest celebration from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, April 26 at Pivo Brewery — 101 Huber Dr. in Calmar. The day’s schedule features free musical entertainment by the Guttenberg German Band from 1-4 p.m., Maypole/Annie’s Dancers at 2 p.m. and Madlee from 6-9 p.m. A meal will also be served from noon to 3 p.m. and feature pork loin or turkey casserole and hot German potato salad with all the trimmings. A silent auction will be held up until 3 p.m.

Supervisors to seek public health contract with area hospitals

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BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors opted to seek a public health contract with either WinnMed or Gundersen Clinic of Decorah.

The board has been considering options to reduce public health costs for about one-anda-half years. Winneshiek County Public Health Administrator Krista Vanden Brink previously said her office couldn’t afford to pay its staff competitive wages in the fall of 2023, which inspired most of the staff to leave the department — after which, the department no longer had enough personnel to provide a number of Medicaid services, and the local public health office was decertified by Medicaid. Since then, Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors Co-chair Mark Vick and fellow County Supervisor Steve Kelsay have proposed the county reduce public health expenses by eliminating redundant services, ceasing all non-required services and potentially halting home health services for about a dozen homebound county residents.

Kelsay proposed during Monday’s board meeting that two members of the county’s public health board meet with two county supervisors and pursue a contract for public health services with Gundersen Clinic, WinnMed or another for-profit medical facility. Vande Brink previously provided information to the board of supervisors regarding public health services other northeast Iowa counties provide — including Allamakee, Fayette, Clayton and Howard counties, which rely on hospitals to provide their public health services. Kelsay said Vick calculated the cost per capita tax payers in each county pay for public health services.

“There are real savings for the counties that partner with their local hospitals — noting that Chickasaw and Winneshiek are the only two that don’t partner,” Kelsay said. “The range in per capita costs goes from $6.35 to as high as $40.29, and if you look at services, they’re all pretty much the same.”

Supervisor Shirley Vermace countered, saying she believes the public won’t enjoy the same services from WinnMed or Gundersen as it currently does from Winneshiek County Public Health, but Kelsay maintained his position.

“At this point, what we have is what our public health director gave us for information,” Kelsay said. “And, in conversations with the other counties, they were all quite satisfied with their relationships with their hospitals.”

Supervisors Kelsay, Vick, Mark Faldet and Chairman Dan Langreck voted in favor of Kelsay’s motion, while Vermace voted against it. She and Langreck were nominated to work with the county’s public health board to gather information from area hospitals and clinics.

2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan updated Winneshiek County Emergency Management Coordinator Sean Snyder and Michelle Barness, senior regional planner with Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission, presented the county’s updated hazard mitigation plan.

Snyder said the Federal Emergency Management Agency requires such a plan be completed every five years and identify each community’s top hazards. Snyder and Barness use the hazard mitigation plan during discussions with community leaders, as officials make their respective emergency plans and apply for grant

Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission Senior Regional Planner Michelle Barness and Winneshiek County Emergency Management Coordinator Sean Snyder presented the county’s 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan during Monday’s board of supervisors meeting.

(Photo by Zach Jensen) funding to potentially mitigate concerns listed in the plan.

According to the updated plan, the county’s most significant concerns include water quality, cyber security, flooding, vehicle accidents, mental health, human disease and severe storms, while moderate concerns include hazardous materials, drought, levee failure, animal or crop disease, infrastructure failure and terrorism. The county’s lowest concern is extreme heat, according to the hazard mitigation plan.

The supervisors unanimously approved a resolution to adopt the updated hazard mitigation plan.

In other business: • The supervisors approved a resolution recognizing Public Health Week.

• The county’s collective bargaining agreements were approved.

• County Engineer Michael Kueny reported rock bids for this summer’s gravel road maintenance projects will be received this week and that 6,500 tons of new gravel per blade district will be applied, while high-volume roads — including Conover Road, Townline Road, River Road, Meadowlark Road and sections of Winneshiek County Road A14 — will receive fresh rock.

• The supervisors approved Brandon Stille to become the

county’s maintenance foreman.

Stille will oversee the southern two districts of the county.

• Structural engineering firm Shuck-Britson, Inc. of Des Moines inspected Bridge 320 on Pleasant View Road and recommended it be closed. Repairs are not feasible at this time, Kueny said.

• Bridges on 135th Street and 312th Avenue had their load ratings temporarily reduced to 3 tons. The county maintenance crew will encase each bridge’s timber piles in concrete this summer, Kueny said.

The next meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held at 9:30 a.m. Monday, April 14 in the courthouse annex.

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County conservation to host natural egg dyeing event

Winneshiek County Conservation is egg-cited to offer a program explaining how to color eggs with dyes made from natural materials. Attendees will participate in the springtime tradition of egg dyeing by using natural dyes from locally collected black walnuts, elderberries, cherries, goldenrod, and other plants. The event is open to all ages, and children should be accompanied by an adult. Attendees are asked to bring a dozen hard-boiled egg-

es or blown-out egg shells to decorate — organizers do not recommend eating eggs after they have been dyed. Natural egg dyeing will take place from 4-5 p.m. Monday, April 14 at the Oneota Co-op Kitchen Classroom in Decorah as well as from 6-7 p.m. at the Wilder Building on Northeast Iowa Community College’s Calmar Campus. To learn more and register, visit winneshiekwild. com/upcoming-events or call 563-534-7145.

Good Shepherd Lutheran 20 DMS students head to state competition Church preparing for Holy following regional National History Day Week, Easter worship Photo submitted

Several eighth grade Decorah Middle School students participated in the regional National History Day competition held March 19th at Northeast Iowa Community College. A total of 20 students were recognized as finalists in the competition and will participate at the NHD state meet on April 28 in Ames. This year’s theme is “Rights and Responsibilities in History.” State qualifiers and their projects include the following: Individual performance Ruth Kueny — Nellie Bly: Advocating for Human Rights Through Investigative Journalism Group performance Charly Courtney and Kelbi Schuman — Mildred Fish-Harnack: Restoring Rights in Germany

Individual documentary Sofia Hageman — American Indian Boarding Schools: Identity Erasure Nathaniel Crose — The United States Constitution: Pioneering Freedom of Expression in Civil Society Per Weir — Island Trees Board of Education v. Pico Group documentary Robert Davis and Leonard Nimrod — Women Code Breakers of Arlington Hall Individual websites Rosie Burkholder — Rosie the Riveter Noah Alexander — Company K of the First Michigan Sharpshooters: The Brave Native American Men, and Post-Civil War Struggles

Individual exhibit Harper Menke — Amelia Bloomer and the Fight for Women’s Rights Group exhibit Jacksyn Fromm, Hayden Wenthold and Carter Rissman — Texas Western Austin Bohner and Sam Johanningmeier — Daniel Inouye: Fighting for the Rights of Americans Group website Lula McAbee and Jaedyn Hageman — The Removal of Homosexuality from the DSM Individual paper Kylie Zoulek — The Murder of Gertrude Bestor Kenyon Bartels — The Rural Electrification Act of 1936

Photo submitted

Trojanbots excited to gear up for future competitions

Turkey Valley High School’s robotics team — known as the Trojanbots — recently competed in two competitions, placing 26th out of 52 teams in both events. The team was selected to play on an alliance for the final tournament in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and the team tied

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for fifth place. Organizers said the team learned much during this year’s competition, and the students are excited for next year’s events.

Organizers noted the robotics tournaments cost $3,000-$6,000, and the team is seeking lifetime sponsors. TVRT Robotics is

currently sponsored by approximately nine local sponsors. Organizations and individuals interested in sponsoring the team are encouraged to contact Turkey Valley Schools, or email robotics coaches Tammy Vrzak at tvrzak@turkey or Cameron Amos at camos@turkey-v.k12.ia.us.

The public is invited to attend Holy Week worship services at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church — 701 Iowa Ave. in Decorah.

A Maundy Thursday worship service will be held at 7 p.m.

Thursday, April 17, and include personal absolution, Holy Communion, and the stripping of the altar. A special jazz worship service, based on James Cone’s book “The Cross and the Lynching Tree,” will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, April 18, with musical arrangements by Jon Ailabouni. Jazz musicians will include music director Brooke Joyce, Andy Last, An-

Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office Joshua Eubanks, age 36, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 6:55 p.m. Tuesday, April 1 and held for another agency.

A Decorah man was uninjured after falling asleep at the wheel late last week. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 46-year-old Chad Martin Halverson was driving a 2018 Ford F150 westward along Madison Road and fell asleep at approximately 11:40 p.m. The truck crossed the center line and entered the ditch, traversed a field drive and came to rest on its drivers side, according to the sheriff’s report. Damage to the Ford was estimated at $15,000.

Jeremy Lee Dunn, age 28, of Ridgeway was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at approximately 8:06 p.m. Friday, April 4 on the charge of violating requirements of the sex offender registry — second offense. A criminal complaint said Dunn had been using a Snapchat account which he had not registered with authorities.

A Decorah man was uninjured after his vehicle left the road Saturday morning. A report from the

of stress for staff. Our city manager and parks board should be moving in the same direction, especially with land use.”

Goedken said the city’s code specifies the parks and recreation board reports to the city manager, and the city manager reports to the city council.

However, Goedken said the city’s code becomes somewhat murky when there are conflicting priorities between the coun-

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Residents of Aase Haugen Senior Services will be hosting an Easter Egg hunt for community children at 11 a.m.

Monday, April 21 at the nursing home — located on Ohio Street in Decorah.

The Easter Bunny, volunteers and staff will be on hand to escort the children as they search the building for eggs filled with treats and prizes. Children are invited inside to do their “egg cracking” and greet residents following the hunt. The Easter Bunny will be on hand for photos as well. Organizers said the event will take place rain or shine.

Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 50-year-old Scott Richard Hill was driving a 2015 Ford F250 west along 360th Street. The truck left the road at approximately 6:30 a.m. as Hill was negotiating a curve to the south. The sheriff’s report noted the ditch in that area dropped off at a steep angle, and “a dead tree caught the truck on the passenger side,” keeping it from rolling farther. Damage to the truck was estimated at $25,000. Hill reported the accident several hours later and Don’s Towing took possession of the truck, according to the report.

Roderick Hansen, age 31, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 9 p.m. Monday, April 7 on an arrest/bench warrant.

Decorah Police Department Kylee Ann Judge, age 19, of Decorah was charged with assault at approximately 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 2 in the area of Ohio Street in Decorah. A criminal complaint said Judge allegedly made threatening statements against an individual’s family members, and Judge pushed another individual after being told to apologize. Judge was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at

8:05 p.m. the same day.

Dylan Sweet, age 26, was charged with threat of terrorism, third-degree harassment and violation of a no contact order at approximately 8:18 p.m. Wednesday, April 2 in the 600 block of Maple Avenue in Decorah. Criminal complaints filed against Sweet said he texted an individual 27 times that day in addition to several attempted phone calls, both of which were in violation of a no contact order, according to court records. The complaint went on to say he sent another 18 texts and attempted to make several additional phone calls the following day, and he also attempted to speak with the protected party at the Maple Street location before driving “around the block a couple times to make his presence known.” A separate complaint said Sweet told the victim “that if she didn’t talk to him he is going to destroy her car.” Sweet was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 8:35 p.m. Thursday, April 3.

All people listed may face charges and should be presumed innocent until their case is reviewed through the legal process.

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The church’s Easter Vigil service will take place Saturday, April 19. The service will begin with a bonfire at 7 p.m. in the backyard, and be followed by a candlelight procession to the sanctuary for the worship service, which will include Holy Communion.

Good Shepherd’s Easter Festival Worship with Holy Communion is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Sunday, April 20 and will include music by the Good Shepherd Band. Pastor April Ulring Larson will preside and preach at all four services.

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cil and the parks board.

“Together, we work to achieve the council’s goals and priorities, which often includes parks and rec’s goals and priorities, but if they don’t overlap, they don’t rise to the top,” Goedken said. “To have another board stepping in saying ‘do this and do that,’ it’s a very uncomfortable place to be. It’s getting to the point where it’s just not working.”

City councilperson Christopher Miculinich echoed Neal’s grievances, adding that he too has experienced frustration with recent decisions and accountability related to the parks board. Several council members said they would prefer the parks and rec board act in a capacity similar to the city’s planning and zoning commission, in which commission members evaluate and recommend action but the city council must ultimately approve, modify or deny the commission’s proposal.

Decorah City Attorney John Anderson plans to research the city code used by other communities and work with both Goedken and Decorah Parks and Recreation Director Marc Holtey to generate possible changes to the Decorah’s own code and rules.

“If the parks board continues to exist and operate essential-

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ly as it is today, it really needs to be in conjunction with the council and get direction from the council what goals and priorities are to make sure those align,” Goedken said.

City councilperson Steven Zittergruen indicated he wasn’t entirely supportive of the council instructing Goedken to spend an extended amount of time on the issue, saying the city manager’s calendar was already filled with dozens of obligations. Zittergruen also felt parks board members should be included the discussion before the city took any official action, and he suggested Goedken be given a measure of autonomy in the meantime to make decisions regarding the parks board. Neal agreed with Zittergruen’s approach.

“I think staff should be allowed to create park rules,” she said. “Our current rules don’t cover them. We have no mechanism for closures, how many horses — to me those are priorities. Staff can bring to the council things to clarify.”

The city council did not put the matter to a vote but reached a general consensus to allow Goedken discretion until the city’s attorney is able to research Decorah’s current rules further and meet with officials to potentially draft an updated portion of the city code.

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NOTICE In the Matter of the Judicial Magistrate Appointing Commission For Winneshiek County The Winneshiek County Magistrate Appointing Commission will meet on May 19, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Winneshiek County Courthouse, in the District Courtroom, for the purpose of appointing one magistrate for Winneshiek County for the term beginning August 1, 2025, and ending July 31, 2029.

All applicants must be personally present for interviews on that date.

1. The magistrate must be a resident of Winnehiek County or a resident of a county contiguous to this county during the term of office and does not qualify for appointment if at the time of appointment the applicant will have reached age seventy-two (72).

2. A magistrate shall be an attorney licensed to practice law in Iowa, except for magistrates who have held office since April 1, 2009.

3. To qualify for appointment, one must file a certified application on the forms approved by the Iowa Supreme Court. The application forms may be obtained from the office of the clerk of district court between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The completed application forms (with letter of interest and resume of qualifications attached) must be returned by email to: Benita Gossman, Clerk of Court Email address: benita.gossman@iowacourts.gov By 4:00 p.m. on May 12, 2025 4. The present salary for a Judicial Magistrate is $45,484.00 per year.

5. The magistrate shall work in other counties of the district as assigned by the chief judge for the orderly administration of justice pursuant to Code of Iowa Section 602.6404.

A magistrate is also subject to Code of Iowa Section 602.6108. The magistrate may be required to handle mental commitment hearings pursuant to Code of Iowa Chapters 125 and 229.

6. The person appointed shall attend the annual school of instruction for magistrates.

7. For information on judicial magistrate appointments, jurisdiction and procedures, see Iowa Code sections 602.6403 through 602.6405.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 3 & 10, 2025

NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S LEVY AND SALE State of Iowa Winneshiek County ss.

Iowa District Court Court Case # EQCV026980 Winneshiek County Kerndt Brothers Savings Bank PLAINTIFF vs Phoenix Corp, Brian R Connell, Sarah L Connell, and Parties in Possession DEFENDANT (Judgment Debtor) Special Execution As a result of the judgment rendered in the above referenced court case, an execution was issued by the court to the Sheriff of this county. The execution ordered the sale of defendant’s real estate to satisfy the judgment. The property to be sold is Lot 3 of The Three Cubs Subdivision, which is located in Lot 1 of 2 in the Fractional Northwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter and in Lot 1 in the Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter and in Lot 1 in the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section 6, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M., in Winneshiek County, Iowa, subject to all Easements and Agreements of record with a commonly known address of 2756 Iawinn Road, Decorah, Iowa 52101.

The described property will be offered for sale at public auction for cash only as follows: Date of Sale: May 13, 2025 Time of Sale: 10 a.m.

Place of Sale: Winneshiek County Courthouse Redemption: After the sale of real estate, defendant may redeem the property within One Year.

Property exemption: Certain money or property may be exempt. Contact your attorney promptly to review specific provisions of the law and file appropriate notice, if acceptable.

Judgment amount - $737,167.33; Costs $16,028.93; Accruing Costs – Plus; Interest $161,306.67; Attorney – Samuel J. Gray (319) 366-7641; Date – January 29, 2025; Sheriff – Dan Marx, Winneshiek County, Iowa. Deputy Andrew Hageman.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 3 & 10, 2025

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ARLENE E. STENDEL DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016381 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Arlene E. Stendel, Deceased, who died on or about January 28, 2025: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 26th day of March, 2025, the Last Will and Testament of Arlene E. Stendel, deceased, bearing date of December 9, 2002, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Pam Buddenberg was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the abovenamed district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred.

Dated this 27th day of March, 2025.

Pam Buddenberg Executor of Estate 1394 135th Street Castalia, IA 52133 Daniel L. Fretheim ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 Email: dan.fretheim@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: April 10, 2025 Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 3 & 10, 2025

City of Ridgeway Minutes 4.1.25 The Ridgeway City Council met in special session April 1, 2025, at the Ridgeway Community Center, at 5:45 p.m. with Mayor Schnur calling the meeting to order. Council persons present were: Linderbaum, Engelhardt, Novotny and Schnur. Absent: Hauber.

Linderbaum made a Motion to approve the consent agenda, and the minutes, seconded

by Engelhardt. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

This being the date and time for a public hearing on the Budget Year 2025-2026 Proposed Property Tax Levy, the public hearing was called to order by Mayor Schnur. A discussion was held. There were no written or oral objectors. The Mayor declared the public hearing closed. No Resolution is needed for the property tax levy hearing, only to approve the budget after the budget adoption hearing.

The next City Council meeting will be April 1, 2025, at 6:20 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center.

Schnur made a Motion to adjourn, seconded

by Novotny. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Sharla Berns City Clerk Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET STEFFEN DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016383 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Margaret Steffen, Deceased, who died on or about March 23, 2025: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 28th day of March, 2025, the Last Will and Testament of Margaret Steffen, deceased, bearing date of December 8, 1983, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Connie Knight was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the abovenamed district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred.

Dated this 28th day of March, 2025.

Connie Knight Executor of Estate 1411 Elmhurst Avenue Humboldt, IA 50548 Jana Evelsizer Olson ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 Email: jana.olson@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: April 10, 2025 Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 3 & 10, 2025

City of Spillville Mintues & Claims April 1, 2025 The Spillville City Council held the regular meeting at the Spillville City Hall at 6:17 PM. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. Mayor Wermers called the meeting to order at 6:17 PM with the following councilmen present Kelsay, Taylor, Straube and Schmitt. Absent, Backes.

Motion by Straube. second by Taylor to approve the consent agenda. Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none. Motion carried.

Discussed the progress of the street and water projects.

The Annexation – no progress.

Motion by Kelsay, second by Taylor to approve Resolution 25-4-1 Setting A Public Hearing for the 2026 City of Spillville Budget. Meeting scheduled for April 22, 2025 at 6:00 PM. Roll call vote, Schmitt, Straube, Taylor, Kelsay; unanimous, Nayes; none.

Motion carried.

Motion by Straube, second by Schmitt to approve the purchase of the ClerkBooks Software and Service for our accounting system.

Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none.

Motion carried.

Motion by Straube, second by Taylor to remove the land line phone and replace with our current office cell phone. Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none. Motion carried.

Received the Clocks report. City Discussed and put the Clock Project on hold for this year and try for a grant to help with funds for the project. Reviewed employment for coming year.

Discussion was held on Employee Handbook Policies. It will be a agenda item at the next meeting.

Motion by Taylor, second by Straube to adjourn. Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none. Motion carried. Meeting Fund, Income.............................Distribution General, $18731.11..................... $14092.96 DebtService, $835.48............................... $0 Clocks, $463.15.............................$2925.92 Capitol, $0................................................ $0 Library Trust , $178.33..................$2993.41 Water , $199.54........................... $39551.66 Campground, $1513.93............................ $0 Water Sinking Fund, $11800.00...............$0 Road Use, $2094.20......................$9328.90 Water Deposit, $0.....................................$0 LOST, $5025.35.......................................$0 Sewer, $4244.03............................$1270.00 April Meeting Claims Type, Date, Num, Name, Memo.....Amount Check, 03/11/2025, , GIGFIRE, Internet Service...............................-70.00 Check, 03/11/2025, US CELLULAR Alarm Autodialer/Cell Phone........-178.63 Check, 03/19/2025, ALLIANT, Electricity...................................-3,035.19 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, ...Andera, Lynette C Payroll...........................................-423.45 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, Craft, Susanna-Virginia, Payroll...-667.05 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, .Elsbernd, Sandra A, Payroll...........................................-469.57 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, KELSAY, STEVEN, Payroll...........-36.94 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, KUHN, RUTH, Payroll...........................................-729.69 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, ..KULISH, JOANE, Payroll........................................-1,528.20 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, PHILLIPS, LARRY J, Payroll....-4,514.32 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, . Schmitt, Darrell G, Payroll.............................................-36.94 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, STRAUBE, THOMAS A, Payroll...-36.94 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, ... TAYLOR, JOHN, Payroll.............................................-18.47 Paycheck, 03/31/2025, WERMERS, PAUL L, Payroll............................-184.52 Check, 04/01/2025, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones.............................-230.11 Check, 04/01/2025, ZARNOTH BRUSH WORKS INC, Street Cleaning......-172.00 Check, 04/01/2025, .......... Decorah Leader, Publications...................................-266.08 Check, 04/01/2025, .FENCL OIL & LP CO. Library LP.....................................-550.60 Check, 04/01/2025, GIGFIRE....................., Internet Service...............................-70.00 Check, 04/01/2025, DRIFTLESS SECURITY, Library Alarm.............-70.00 Check, 04/01/2025, .National General Flood Insurance, Flood Insurance........-3,450.00 Check, 04/01/2025, .Microbac Laboratories, Inc, Water & Sewer Testing.............-85.00 Check, 04/01/2025, INTUIT Intuit Payroll Services................-1,100.00 Check, 04/01/2025, QUILL CORPORATION, Library Office Supplies.........................................-546.97 Check, 04/01/2025, AMAZON MARKET PLACE, Clerk Equipment...........................-279.99 Check, 04/01/2025, .....BADGER METER, Water Maintenance..........................-62.70 Check, 04/01/2025, DORSEY & WHITNEY LLP, Water Project legal service.........................................-5,960.00 Check, 04/01/2025, VISA, City Supplies...................................-11.79 Check, 04/01/2025, JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL, Shop Supplies..........-42.78 Check, 04/01/2025, ISU Extension & Outreach, Education........................-90.00 Check, 04/01/2025, KUHN, RUTH, Books-Serials & Mileage..............-262.05 Check, 04/01/2025, UPPER IOWA INSURANCE SERVICES CORP., City Insurance...............................-399.00 Total.............................................-25,578.98 Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

Public Notice The Spillville City Council held the special meeting at the Spillville City Hall at 6:00 PM. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. Mayor Wermers called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM with the following councilmen present Kelsay, Taylor, Straube and Schmitt. Absent, Backes.

Mayor Wermers opened the public hearing at 6:01 pm for the City of Spillville 2026 Proposed Property Max Tax Levy.

No oral or written comments were received from the public on the City of Spillville Proposed Property Max Tax Levy.

Motion by Straube, second by Taylor to close the public hearing and adjourn. Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned 6:05 pm. Motion carried.

Attest: Lynette Andera, City Clerk Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

A-9

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BARBARA C. JIRAK DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016382 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Barbara C. Jirak, Deceased, who died on or about March 10, 2025: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 27th day of March, 2025, the Last Will and Testament of Barbara C. Jirak, deceased, bearing date of April 26, 2013 and First Codicil dated September 2, 2016, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Jerome T. Jirak was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the abovenamed district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred.

Dated this 28th day of March, 2025.

Jerome T. Jirak Executor of Estate 1348 County Road V64 Waucoma, IA 52171 Jana Evelsizer Olson ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 Email: jana.olson@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: April 10, 2025 Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 3 & 10, 2025 Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR IOWA CITIES, COUNTIES AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS 2025 DECORAH HS & CARRIE LEE ES ROOF REPLACEMENT DECORAH COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT To Whom It May Concern: You are hereby notified that immediately following the Budget Public Hearing at 5:30 PM, Central Time on April 14, 2025, at the Decorah Community School District Administration Office, 1732 Old Stage Road, Decorah, IA 52101, there will be a public hearing on the proposed plans, specifications, and estimated cost of the project. Any persons interested may appear and file objections to the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract, or cost of such improvement.

The following is a description of the Public Improvement: The Project consists of the construction of removal of approximate 14,226 SF of existing roof system and installation of a new EPDM roof system and removal and replacement of 10,302 SF of shingled roof system with a new metal shingle roof system.

The location of the project is as follows: Decorah High School, 100 Claiborne Drive, Decorah, IA 52101 Carrie Lee Elementary School, 210 Vernon Street, Decorah, IA 52101 Published by order of the Board of Directors, Decorah Community School District, Decorah, Iowa.

By: Darlene Woodhouse Title: Board Secretary Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025 Board Minutes March 31 and April 1, 2025 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am March 31, 2025 with Kelsay, Vick, Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to open the Public Hearing on the proposed FY26 Levy Rates. Motion carried unanimously. Auditor Steines reviewed the proposed budget and levy rates and answered questions from the public. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to set the public hearing on the proposed budget for April 28 at 9:30am. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Public notice will be published as required.

The Board reviewed the amendments to the loan and disbursement agreement for the Festina Sewer Project. Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Vick to adopt resolution 25-29, authorizing and approving the amended and restated Loan and Disbursement Agreement and Sewer Bond for the Festina Sewer project. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Complete resolution and agreement are on file in the County Auditor’s office.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the FY26 Solutions support agreement. Motion carried unanimously.

The Board reviewed the FY26 Public Health budgets for the surrounding counties.

Kelsay suggested the Board of Health should be directed to pursue a service agreement with WinnMed and/or Gundersen Health to provide Public Health services. This will be discussed at a future meeting.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to proclaim April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Winneshiek County. Motion carried unanimously and the proclamation was signed.

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to discuss several road projects.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve Kueny’s request for ten hours of Holiday pay for road crew employees while on the 4x10 hour schedule, at his discretion for 2025. Motion carried unanimously. Moved

by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to approve Kueny’s request for approval of the Office Manager job description and assignment to paygrade 16, and to the promotion of his two administrative staff to this position at column “G” immediately, with a raise to column “H” on July 1, 2025. Motion carried with Kelsay, Vermace, and Faldet voting aye; and Vick and Langreck voting nay.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to add to the proposed FY26 budget a $4700 appropriation for NEI3A. Motion failed with Vermace and Faldet voting aye; and Kelsay, Vick, and Langreck voting nay. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to add to the proposed FY26 budget a $2350 appropriation for NEI3A. Motion carried with Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet voting aye; and Kelsay and Vick voting nay.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Faldet to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, April 7, 2025, with a Special Closed Session on April 1 at 2:00pm to discuss pending litigation. Motion carried unanimously.

The Board met on April 1, 2025 at 2:00pm with all members present as well as Andy Van Der Maaten, County Attorney; Dan Marx, County Sheriff; and Ben Steines, County Auditor.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to enter closed session to discuss the pending litigation with counsel as authorized by Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c). Motion carried unanimously and the closed session was held. Moved

by Vick and seconded by Faldet to enter open session. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to support the Winneshiek County Sheriff and to defend the litigation that has been filed by the Iowa Attorney General alleging a violation of Chapter 27A; to authorize the County Attorney and County Sheriff to seek out legal representation to defend the lawsuit and to raise all Constitutional and Statutory defenses; and to have them provide the Board of Supervisors defense counsel options at the earliest convenience. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Kelsay to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.

Benjamin D. Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING To Whom It May Concern: Notice is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, have set for May 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Board of Supervisors room in the Winneshiek County Courthouse, Decorah, Iowa, as the time and place for hearing on the proposed sale of the Winneshiek County real estate being more particularly described as follows: A parcel of land located in [part of the Southwest ¼ of the Southeast ¼ of Section 30, Township 98 North, Range 08, West of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa as shown on Plat of Survey attached hereto and by reference made a part hereof.

PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Commencing at the South ¼ Corner of said Section 30; thence, on an assumed bearing, N 00°00’00” E 519.96 feet along the West line of the Southeast ¼ of said Section 30; thence N 90°00’00” E 428.76 feet, to the point of beginning; thence N 28°07’38” W 237.91 feet; ;thence N 00°00’00” E 217.62 feet; thence N 33°45’09” E 214.87 feet; thence N 05°17’59” E 189.71 feet to the North line of the Southwest ¼ of the Southeast ¼ of said Section 30: thence S 89°09’40” E 150.00 feet along said line; thence S 00°09’55” W 435.13 feet to the Northerly most corner of Lot 1 of the Southwest ¼ of the Southeast ¼ of said Section 30; thence S 00°18’51 “E 247.08 feet (248.7 feet Record) along the West side of said Lot 1 to the Existing Northwesterly Right of Way line of Primary Road No. U.S. 52; thence S 57°41’ 10” W 206.87’ to the point of beginning. Said Parcel contains 3.93 acres, more or less.

The above-described real estate is collectively referred to hereinafter as the “Property.”

At said time and place, consideration will be given to the sale of the Property. Winneshiek County proposes to sell the subject property for the highest amount bid for the Property, reserving the right to reject any and all bids.

Bid forms will be available from the Winneshiek County Auditor.

A copy of an “engineer’s drawing” of the building on the Property can be viewed in the office of the Winneshiek County Auditor.

The drawings and bid form are also available at https://winneshiekcounty.iowa.gov/public-auction.

Potential bidders may schedule an inspection of the property for a date after May 1, 2025, by contacting the Auditor’s office.

Winneshiek County will provide an abstract to the property through May 12, 2025, showing merchantable title within 30 days of the public hearing.

The top three initial bidders will be invited to a bid-off, where they will be given the opportunity to increase their bids. Winneshiek County proposes to sell the Property for the highest amount bid for the Property, following the bid-off, reserving the right to reject any and all bids.

The minimum bid requirement is $500,000.00.

At said time and place, arguments for and against the sale of the Property will be heard and considered. A copy of the resolution setting this public hearing is available for review at the Office of the Winneshiek County Auditor. Bids are due in the Winneshiek County Auditor’s office by 4:00 p.m. on May 9, 2025.

By order of the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, this 10th day of March 2025.

WlNNESHIEK COUNTY AUDlTOR Benjamin Steines Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING JURISDICTION OF CITY OF DECORAH Water Meter Replacement Project Public Hearing on Proposed Contract Documents and Estimated Costs for Improvement.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: You are hereby given notice that a public hearing will be held by the City Council of Decorah on the proposed contract documents and proposed improvements for the Water Meter Replacement Project at its meeting at 5:45 P.M. on April 21, 2025, at City Hall in Decorah, Iowa.

The public hearing may be attended virtually using the meeting information provided in this notice and as posted in the City of Decorah City Council agenda.

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/ j/86063953310?pwd=Of2L9pNGdaq3A4cBTlgy2x0hXWlfIt.1 Meeting ID: 860 6395 3310 Passcode: 086603 The scope of the project includes c Replacing approximately 3,145 water meters for all residential, commercial, and industrial properties serviced by the City’s water utility.

The project location(s) is as follows: Every Residential, commercial, and industrial property within the corporate limits of Decorah; all in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa.

At the meeting the City Council will consider the plans, specifications, cost estimate, and contract proposals. The City Council will also act upon the contract proposals and decide whether to enter into a contract for the project improvements.

Any person(s) interested may attend the meeting for the purpose of expressing their opinion regarding the plans, specifications, cost estimate, or the contract proposals.

This Notice is given by authority of the City of Decorah.

Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING JURISDICTION OF CITY OF DECORAH Decorah Athletic Complex Project Public Hearing on Proposed Contract Documents and Estimated Costs for Improvement.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: You are hereby given notice that a public hearing will be held by the City Council of Decorah on the proposed contract documents and proposed improvements for the Decorah Athletic Complex Project at its meeting at 5:45 P.M. on April 21, 2025, at City Hall in Decorah, Iowa.

The public hearing may be attended virtually using the meeting information provided in this notice and as posted in the City of Decorah City Council agenda.

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/ j/86063953310?pwd=Of2L9pNGdaq3A4cBTlgy2x0hXWlfIt.1 Meeting ID: 860 6395 3310 Passcode: 086603 The scope of the project includes construction of ball fields, batting cage, bleachers, pickleball courts, parking lot - General site improvements include landscaping, utilities, lighting, and site restoration.

The project location(s) is as follows: Lot owned by the City of Decorah, East of 1798 Old Stage Road and West of 1766 Old Stage Road; all in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa.

At the meeting the City Council will consider the plans, specifications, cost estimate, and contract proposals. The City Council will also act upon the contract proposals and decide whether to enter into a contract for the project improvements.

Any person(s) interested may attend the meeting for the purpose of expressing their opinion regarding the plans, specifications, cost estimate, or the contract proposals.

This Notice is given by authority of the City of Decorah.

Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Office Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS

A-10 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221 City of: SPILLVILLE The City Council will conduct a public hearing on the proposed Budget at: Spillville City Hall 438 South Main Street Spillville IA 52168 Meeting Date: 4/22/2025 Meeting Time: 06:00 PM At the public hearing any resident or taxpayer may present objections to, or arguments in favor of , any part of the proposed budget. This notice represents a summary of the supporting detail of revenues and expenditures on file with the City Clerk and County Auditor.

City budgets are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult https://dom.iowa.gov/local-budget-appeals.

The Budget Estimate Summary of proposed receipts and expenditures is shown below. Copies of the the detailed proposed Budget may be obtained or viewed at the offices of the Mayor, City Clerk, and at the Library.

The estimated Total tax levy rate per $1000 valuation on regular property

10.96337

The estimated tax levy rate per $1000 valuation on Agricultural property is

3.00375

At the public hearing, any resident or taxpayer may present objections to, or arguments in favor of, any part of the proposed budget.

Phone Number (563) 380-1379

City Clerk/Finance Officer's NAME Lynette C Andera

Revenues & Other Financing Sources Taxes Levied on Property Less: Uncollected Property Taxes-Levy Year Net Current Property Taxes Delinquent Property Taxes TIF Revenues Other City Taxes Licenses & Permits Use of Money and Property Intergovernmental Charges for Fees & Service Special Assessments Miscellaneous Other Financing Sources Transfers In Total Revenues and Other Sources Expenditures & Other Financing Uses Public Safety Public Works Health and Social Services Culture and Recreation Community and Economic Development General Government Debt Service Capital Projects Total Government Activities Expenditures Business Type / Enterprises Total ALL Expenditures Transfers Out Total ALL Expenditures/Transfers Out Excess Revenues & Other Sources Over (Under) Expenditures/Transfers Out Beginning Fund Balance July 1 Ending Fund Balance June 30

Budget FY 2026

Re-estimated FY 2025

Actual FY 2024

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

131,548 0 131,548 0 0 61,217 500 40,005 107,357 283,100 0 28,988 0 52,346 705,061

134,849 0 134,849 0 0 68,013 350 33,700 582,344 249,680 0 16,100 1,194,000 22,198 2,301,234

117,397 0 117,397 0 0 45,550 647 21,100 91,843 208,829 0 23,996 90,480 32,599 632,441

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

8,501 120,468 700 183,445 8,500 87,973 0 0 409,587 223,262 632,849 52,346 685,195 19,866 513,103 532,969

5,801 111,500 770 197,686 11,200 85,682 11,236 0 423,875 1,872,063 2,295,938 22,198 2,318,136 -16,902 530,005 513,103

19,877 114,701 0 160,256 5,262 52,373 10,437 0 362,906 211,525 574,431 32,599 607,030 25,411 504,594 530,005

Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING -- PROPOSED BUDGET Fiscal Year July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026 County Name: WINNESHIEK COUNTY County Number: 96 The County Board of Supervisors will conduct a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year County budget as follows: Meeting Date: 4/28/2025 Meeting Time: 09:30 AM Meeting Location: Courthouse Annex At the public hearing any resident or taxpayer may present objections to, or arguments in favor of, any part of the proposed budget. This notice represents a summary of the supporting detail of revenues and expenditures on file with the County Auditor. A copy of the supporting detail will be furnished upon request.

County budgets are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult dom.iowa.gov/local-budget-appeals Average annual percentage changes between "Actual" and "Budget" amounts for "Taxes Levied on Property", "Other County Taxes/ TIF Tax Revenues", and for each of the ten "Expenditure Classes" must be published. Expenditure classes proposing "Budget"amounts, but having no "Actual" amounts, are designated "NEW".

County Telephone Number County Website (if available) (563) 382-5085 www.winneshiekcounty.iowa.gov Budget 2025/2026 Re-Est 2024/2025 Actual 2023/2024 AVG Annual % CHG REVENUES & OTHER FINANCING SOURCES Taxes Levied on Property 1 12,921,510 12,596,844 11,390,338 6.51 Less: Uncollected Delinquent Taxes - Levy Year 2 190 190 0 Less: Credits to Taxpayers 3 932,295 932,295 610,998 Net Current Property Taxes 4 11,989,025 11,664,359 10,779,340 Delinquent Property Tax Revenue 5 190 190 193 Penalties, Interest & Costs on Taxes 6 40,200 40,200 51,411 Other County Taxes/TIF Tax Revenues 7 1,937,001 1,619,495 2,181,611 -5.77 Intergovernmental 8 12,431,136 10,020,698 7,663,898 Licenses & Permits 9 48,850 50,300 74,043 Charges for Service 10 677,675 584,525 809,355 Use of Money & Property 11 372,856 370,256 866,928 Miscellaneous 12 1,399,406 1,997,206 985,344 Subtotal Revenues 13 28,896,339 26,347,229 23,412,123 Other Financing Sources: General Long-Term Debt Proceeds 14 0 0 0 Operating Transfers In 15 3,019,838 2,920,425 2,936,572 Proceeds of Fixed Asset Sales 16 580,000 80,001 562,376 Total Revenues & Other Sources 17 32,496,177 29,347,655 26,911,071 EXPENDITURES & OTHER FINANCING USES Operating: Public Safety and Legal Services 18 7,117,259 6,691,856 5,133,231 17.75 Physical Health and Social Services 19 1,368,655 1,243,858 1,430,069 -2.17 County Environment and Education 21 3,425,847 3,569,197 2,633,484 14.06 Roads & Transportation 22 8,038,000 8,477,600 8,379,519 -2.06 Government Services to Residents 23 947,574 870,234 748,221 12.54 Administration 24 3,297,384 3,367,060 3,377,261 -1.19 Nonprogram Current 25 4,000 2,056 2,354 30.35 Debt Service 26 0 0 0 Capital Projects 27 5,807,500 3,502,500 2,459,982 53.65 Subtotal Expenditures 28 30,006,219 27,724,361 24,164,121 Other Financing Uses: Operating Transfers Out 29 3,019,838 2,920,425 2,936,572 Refunded Debt/Payments to Escrow 30 0 0 0 Total Expenditures & Other Uses 31 33,026,057 30,644,786 27,100,693 Excess of Revenues & Other Sources over (under) Expenditures & Other Uses 32 -529,880 -1,297,131 -189,622 Beginning Fund Balance - July 1, 33 11,971,254 13,268,385 13,458,007 Increase (Decrease) in Reserves (GAAP Budgeting) 34 0 0 0 Fund Balance - Nonspendable 35 0 0 0 Fund Balance - Restricted 36 8,952,383 8,470,349 8,135,786 Fund Balance - Committed 37 0 0 0 Fund Balance - Assigned 38 0 0 0 Fund Balance - Unassigned 39 2,488,991 3,500,905 5,132,599 Total Ending Fund Balance - June 30, 40 11,441,374 11,971,254 13,268,385 Proposed property taxation by type: Countywide Levies*: Rural Only Levies*: Special District Levies*: TIF Tax Revenues: Utility Replacement Excise Tax:

IN THE DISTRICT COURT IN AND FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY CASE NO. EQCV027133 DONNA M. BARTH, Plaintiff, v.

FRANK P. ADAMS, GEORGIA V. ROSENTHAL, CHARLOTTE ROSENTHAL, AND VIRGINIA ROSENTHAL, and ALL UNKNOWN CLAIMANTS AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHTS, TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO: ORIGINAL NOTICE Lot 1 of 1 of 14 in Block 2 of Townsley’s Addition to the City of Decorah, and the West Half of Lot “K” in the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section 16, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M., all in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa, per the plat of survey recorded May 18, 2009, as Document No. 2009-2473 of the Winneshiek County Records.

AND ALL HEIRS, SPOUSES, ASSIGNS, GRANTEES, LEGATEES, DEVISEES, AND BENEFICIARIES OF EACH AND ALL OF THE DEFENDANTS NAMED ABOVE, Defendants.

TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS You are notified that a petition has been filed in the office of the clerk of this court naming you as the defendants in this action. A copy of the petition (and any documents filed with it) is attached to this notice. The names and address of the attorney for the plaintiff is John S. Anderson of Anderson, Wilmarth, Van Der Maaten, Fretheim, Evelsizer Olson, Noble, Lynch & Zahasky whose address is 212 Winnebago, P.O. Box 450, Decorah, IA 52101-0450. That attorney’s phone number is (563) 382-2959; facsimile number is (563) 382-3773.

You are further notified that the above case has been filed in a county that utilizes electronic filing. Unless, within 20 days after service of this original notice upon you, you serve, and within a reasonable time thereafter file a motion or answer, in the Iowa District Court for Winneshiek County, at the courthouse in Decorah, Iowa, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. Please see Iowa Court Rules Chapter 16 for information on electronic filing and Iowa E-FILED 2025 MAR 28 3:24 PM WINNESHIEK - CLERK OF DISTRICT COURT Court Rules Chapter 16, division VI regarding the protection of personal information in court filings.

If you require the assistance of auxiliary aids or services to participate in court because of a disability, immediately call your district ADA coordinator at (319) 833-3332. (If you are hearing impaired, call Relay Iowa TTY at 1-800-735-2942).

Iowa Judicial Branch Case No. EQCV027133 County Winneshiek Case Title DONNA BARTH VS FRANK ADAMS ET AL You must file your Appearance and Answer on the Iowa Judicial Branch eFile System, unless the attached Petition and Original Notice contains a hearing date for your appearance, or unless the court has excused you from filing electronically (see Iowa Court Rule 16.302).

Register for the eFile System at www. iowacourts.state.ia.us/Efile to file and view

documents in your case and to receive notices from the court.

For general rules and information on electronic filing, refer to the Iowa Rules of Electronic Procedure in chapter 16 of the Iowa Court Rules at www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/ ACO/CourtRulesChapter/16.pdf.

Court filings are public documents and may contain personal information that should always be kept confidential. For the rules on protecting personal information, refer to Division VI of chapter 16 of the Iowa Court Rules and to the Iowa Judicial Branch website at www.iowacourts.gov/for-the-public/ representing-yourself/protect-personal-information/.

If you need assistance to participate in court due to a disability, call the disability access coordinator at . Persons who are hearing or speech impaired may call Relay Iowa TTY (1-800-735-2942). For more information, see www.iowacourts.gov/for-the-public/ada/.

Disability access coordinators cannot provide legal advice.

Date Issued 03/28/2025 04:15:01 PM District Clerk of Court or/by Clerk’s Designee of Winneshiek County /s/ Kiersta Fotiadis Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 17 & 24, 2025

RIDGEWAY CITY COUNCIL MINUTES April 1, 2025 The Ridgeway City Council met in regular session April 1, 2025, at the Ridgeway Community Center, at 6:20 p.m. with Mayor Schnur calling the meeting to order. Council persons present were: Linderbaum, Novotny, Engelhardt, Schnur, and Hauber. Absent: None.

Engelhardt made a Motion to approve the consent agenda, and March 11, 2025, bills and claims, seconded by Schnur. All aye.

Nay: none. Motion carried.

A Motion was made by Engelhardt, seconded by Novotny to set a public hearing on the 2025-2026 proposed City budget for April, 23, 2025, at 5:45 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

A Motion was made by Schnur, seconded

by Linderbaum to approve a building permit submitted by Brady Halverson to build a 30 x 48 addition on to the East end of his back shed at his property at 930 County Street, Ridgeway, Iowa. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

The maintenance man report was given.

The next Event planning meeting will be April 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center.

The next City Council meeting will be April 23, 2025, at 5:45 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center.

Hauber made a Motion to adjourn, seconded

by Linderbaum. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Sharla Berns City Clerk WARRANTS FOR CITY OF RIDGEWAY – April 1, 2025 Black Hills Energy, Utility-shop ....$253.33 Cardmember Services, Shop-postage and supplies .......... $732.70 Cedar Valley Electric, Generator repair...........................$500.00 Dan Pitz, Insurance & phone reimbursement .............................$550.00 Enterprise Media, Publishing ........$189.39 Iowa DHS, Support payment..........$745.35

$80. You pick-up $60, 1/2 load $40. Call or text Dan 940-7450895. 14-6-L-pd-1

at the Hesper Lutheran

Church Sunday School wing, Hesper, IA. All welcome to attend.

15-1-L-pd-17

CONTACT US! EntErprisE MEdia the

PRSRT.STD CAR-RT SORT U.S. POSTAGE PD CHARLES CITY, IA PERMIT #144 ECRWS POSTAL CUSTOMER

www.driftlessjournal.com | news@driftlessjournal.com | 563-382-4221 | Tuesday, July 9, 2024 | Vol. 1 Issue 1

the

Proposed tax rates per $1,000 taxable valuation: 11,151,983 1,769,527 0

Urban Areas: Rural Areas:

0 Any special district tax rates not included.

131,701 Explanation of any significant items in the budget or additional virtual meeting information: The budget includes a $900,000 payment for the construction of 911 Emergency Services Towers. Virtual meeting link can be found on the County website at www.winneshiekcounty.iowa.gov.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

7.67564 9.60633

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FRANCIS E. MYRAN DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016389 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, OF APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Francis E. Myran, Deceased, who died on or about March 21, 2025 You are hereby notified that on April 2, 2025 the Last Will and Testament of Francis E. Myran, deceased, bearing date of April 6, 2023, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Carlton Kjos was appointed Executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred.

Dated April 8, 2025.

Carlton Kjos, Executor of Estate 2579 265th Ave. Decorah, IA 52101 Andrew P. Nelson, ICIS# AT0005669 Attorney for Executor Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson 101 1/2 E. Water Street, P.O. Box 126 Decorah, IA 52101 Date of second publication: April 17, 2025 Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10 & 17, 2025

AUCTION For Sale: Outdoor firepit firewood. Pickup load delivered CALENDAR

Tues., April 15 at 7PM

EM

IPERS, Ipers ................................ $1,382.62 Lynch Dallas Legal, Sewer Project............................... $225.00 National Rural Water, Water meter loan payment ....................................... $385.07 Pat Sands, Com. cen. cleaning .......$240.00 Payroll .........................................$6,259.24 Payroll tax.................................... $1,851.57 Ruppert, Shop supplies ....................$ 46.95 Sharla Berns, Reimbursement .......$100.00 Shimek Sanitation, Garbage ........ $2,214.03 Treasurer – State of Iowa, Sales tax....................................... $793.93 Expenditure Accounts Summary to date: General Fund $3,581.63 Community Center $240.00 Cemetery$100.00 Road Use $661.07 Water Fund $985.07 Sewer Fund $464.98 Revenue Accounts Summary to date: General Fund $1,261.89 Local Option Sales Tax Water Fund $2,572.86 Sewer Fund $5,377.34 Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

FOR SALE

The Hesper Public Cemetery board will hold it’s annual meeting

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING -- PROPOSED BUDGET Fiscal Year July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026

563-382-4221 110 Washington Street, Decorah, IA 52101

SATUDAY, APRIL 12 8:30 a.m. Live Antique, Collectible & Household Auction. Laura Boice Estate & Jerome & Janet Uhlenhake Estate & Others. Sale held at Sweeney Auction Center Waukon, IA. Sweeney Auction Service. www.sweeneyauctionservice.com Waukon, Ia 563-568-2464.

TUESDAY, APRIL 15 - 1:00 p.m. Online Only Real Estate & Personal Property Auction. Rollin K. Isenberger Estate, Keith Isenberger, Executor, 3013 North Winn Rd, Decorah, IA. Sweeney Auction Service. www.sweeneyauctionservice.com Waukon, Ia 563-568-2464.

REGIONAL ADVERTISING Miscellaneous Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855954-5087 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

GET 50 $

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YOUR OLD, WORKING FRIDGE Must be a MidAmerican residential electric customer in Iowa or Illinois

Decorah (Iowa) Leader April 10, 2025

MidAmericanEnergy.com/appliance-recycling

Miscellaneous Does your basement or crawl space need some attention? Call Thrasher Foundation Repair! A permanent solution for waterproofing, failing foundations, sinking concrete and nasty crawl spaces. FREE Inspection & Same Day Estimate. $250 off ANY project with code GET250. Call 1-866-554-1730 Miscellaneous Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service.

Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today!

Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-844-376-4154 Entertainment and Events New and antique hand-quilted quilts for sale. Kalona Quilt Show at Kalona Community Center. April 24 5-8pm, April 25 9am-7pm, April 26 9am-3pm.

319-656-2240 www.woodinwheel.com

COMMUNITY

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

A-11

Fruit tree workshops cultivate growth and knowledge in northeast Iowa

Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation raising funds to protect area near Quandahl The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation is raising money to protect 21 acres of land northeast of Decorah in Allamakee County. The site, just east of Quandahl, offers what state officials called rare geological formations, a high-quality cold-water stream and native woodland as well as prairie plant communities.

INHF will work with partners to open the property to the public and expand use around the

adjacent North Bear Creek Wetland Management Area, which is owned by the state of Iowa and managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Preservation of the site includes protecting more than a quarter-mile of Bear Creek, a freshwater stream with naturally-reproducing brown and rainbow. The site also includes an algific talus slope — a landform where a steep north-facing hillside releases cool air from

ice found in cracks and caverns underground.

INHF plans to raise $100,000 through private donations to support the project, and the property is not currently open to the public. For ,ore information or to donate, visit inhf.org or call INHF Senior Land Stewardship and Blufflands Director Brian Fankhauser at 563-3822008.

cook or chef

Mail resume to: Cook c/o Decorah Leader PO Box 350 Decorah, IA 52101

HELP WANTED

Archery range continued from front

15-8-LD-12 Saturday listed more than a in the water,” during the year.

dozen sponsors for the range. Dervin Ludeking of Decorah

Nimrod said past city projects was one of the club’s members

— such as Decorah’s trails and photographed by the newspaper Decorah Community dog parks — were made pos- that year, and he attended Sat Schools 2024-2025 (Decorah High School) sible thanks to similar public urday’s celebration. The now NEEDS:

support.

92-year-old said the former

“It’s another community club used a number of a suitable success that citizens took on,” locations to set up their targets Nimrod said of the new archery and practice their shooting — range. typically setting their targets 20 (Decorah High School — Evening/Night Shift) Lewey said some communi- yards away — and he said they • Insurance Benefits, IPERS

and paid time off ties opt to establish public arat one point rented space at the • Insurance Benefits, IPERS • Shift Differential Stipend equivalent chery spaces in secluded areas,andcounty The Pubpaid time fairgrounds. off to $2.00 per hour Shift Diff equivalent which he indicated can• leave a erential lic Stipend Opinion’s photo appeared

per hour

range underused. He went on toto $2.00 above the words “Hey! Where’s Send letter of application and resume

to Director of Buildings & Grounds say a key component ofSend creatLittle John?” and Ludeking in

letter of application and resume Kurtis Johnson,100 Claiborne Drive, ing the new Decorah range was ofdicated comparison to the

to Director Buildingsthe & Grounds Decorah, IA 52101, or email kurtis.

Johnson,100 Claiborne Drive, identifying an area withKurtis ample legendary figure of Robin Hood johnson@decorah.school by endof

Decorah, IA 52101, or email kurtis. the day on April 16, 2025, or open

space for safety while maintainwasn’t entirely inaccurate. johnson@decorah.school by endof until position is filled.

ing the range’s visibility the to day theon April“We could split arrows yet, 16, 2025, or open The Decorah Community School The Decorah Community School until position is filled. general public. with no sights or anything,” District is an EEO/AA employer.

District is an EEO/AA employer.

Th e Decorah Community School Lewey said the city’s parks Ludeking said. “That’s a fact District is an employer. You can’t just and recreation office is prepar—EEO/AA we practiced. ing to potentially offer youth do that by picking up a bow and archery programming this sum- shooting.” $1,000 SIGNING BONUS mer, and Holtey said he sees Ludeking said the Decorah potential for the new range to Archery Club eventually disbe used not only by youth but solved, but he said archery conby area archery clubs and other tinues to be a common activity $1,000 SIGNING BONUS groups. in the area, and he said he sees Enjoy working outside and looking Decorah has been home to or- the city’s new range as a posDecorah, IA • 563-382-2953 for a change? We provide on the ganized archery clubs at several itive asset — he added bow www.olsonexplosives.com job training! Class A or B CDL points over the past decades. hunting seems to be increasinginfo@olsonexp.com desirable.

No CDL, no problem, we working outside and looking Archives of theEnjoy Decorah Pub- ly popular among young huntwill help you get one.

Equal Opportunity Employer for a change? We provide on the lic Opinion said job Milo Harvey Jessica Rilling, executive training!

Class A orers.

B CDL 9-8-DL-12 was “in the mood to start director desirable.

No an CDL,arno problem, we of the Decorah Area will help you get one. chery club” in Decorah around Chamber of Commerce, echoed December of 1941, if he IA could Ludeking, saying she and the Decorah, • 563-382-2953 drum up enough www.olsonexplosives.com interest. The chamber’s staff are often proPublic Works Technician info@olsonexp.com Decorah Bowmen was formed moting Decorah’s recreational The City of Decorah is currently accepting applications Equal Opportunity in early 1947, with Harvey as Employer offerings. for the position of Public Works Technician. Minimum -codesecretary, according to the ar“We brag about them all the qualifications include high school diploma or equivalent chives, and the group provided time, so it’s nice to have a new required. Previous experience in municipal utility operations, indoor shooting opportunities one,” Rilling said Saturday afincluding water and wastewater, is highly preferred.

Previous experience in construction, maintenance, or during the winter months in ternoon, ahead of a ribbon cutequipment operation preferred. Valid Class B Commercial addition to summer sporting ting near the range’s first target.

Driver’s License (CDL) with airbrake endorsement and events — the Decorah BowA few moments later, Dectanker endorsement or ability to obtain within 6 months men was “reorganized from the orah Mayor Lorraine Borowski of hire. Ability to operate equipment, read blueprints and Winneshiek Bowyers, a for- drew back on a bow and remaps, perform basic math calculations, and communicate mer club which was broken up leased the first arrow to symeffectively. Position is subject to post-offer physical examination including drug testing, background and a few years ago when most of bolically open the range to the motor vehicle records check. Starting wage at $25.20 with its members were called to the public. A number of community $1,000 SIGNING BONUS additional compensation based on qualifications. armed forces.” members — beginners and exApplication and complete job description may be obtained The front page of the July perienced archers — soon lined at the City Clerk’s office, Decorah Municipal Center, 400 19, 1963, Public Opinion high- up to test their aim,Seeking withapplicants the for Tired of losing miles and money or online at www.decorahia.org. lighted the Decorah Archery help of both Lewye and Mechanic Niel- position. ClaibornebyDrive waiting to load and unload?

Full Time This dedicatedcall run is what you For more information 563-382-3651.

Return city Club, which the newspaper sen.

Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953 are looking for! Minimal wait application to: City of Decorah, Attn: Michael O’Hara, Public said boasted 30 members at The city’s new archery range www.olsonexplosives.com times await you.

Works Director, PO and Boxhigh 138,miles Decorah, IA, 52101 or mohara@ info@olsonexp.com that time. The archives said is open to the public between Home every weekend. decorah.iowa.gov.

Applications will be received until the the club showed archery films sunrise and sunset.Equal Those under Employer Opportunity Apply at Olson Explosives, Inc. position is filled, with first 1837 Trout Run Rd, Decorah in city hall the second Thurs- age 18 must be supervised by-codean review of applications www.olsonexp.com 4:00 PM, April 25, 2025. day of each month, adding the adult, and only field points are info@olsonexp.com members “hunt rattlesnake, to be fired on the city’s range. and Veteran Equal Opportunity Employer M/F Disabled EEO/AA Employer deer and even shoot dogfish -code-

Full-Time Custodians

15-2-DL-12

15-2-DL-12

15-6-LD-12

FULL TIME POSITIONS

FULL TIME POSITIONS

MECHANICS

Summer Tour Guides Needed

Full or Part-time

may also cast their votes for board members. Attendees are also welcome to view the historical society’s plans for a new archive. This event is free and open to the public.

OTR CDL

DEDICATED RUN

grafted trees in the landscape,” O’Malley said.

The events were funded by Chickasaw, Fayette and Winneshiek County Extension Offices.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum, Burr Oak

Hours available May through October. All ages are encouraged to apply. Students may start employment by working on weekends.

Flexible schedule, between 14-36 hours per week, depending on the applicant. No experience necessary. Will train.

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— 302 S. Mill St. in Decorah.

The come-and-go event is an opportunity to see the new displays, check out the first floor of the historic house and enjoy refreshments. Paid members

ley’s instruction, 17 attendees practiced grafting with apple rootstocks and took home two grafted apple trees.

“We provided essential information on how to care for

HELP WANTED

County historical society to host annual meeting The Winneshiek County Historical Society will be hosting their annual meeting and open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 12 at the home of the Historical Society

Attendees of the Fruit Tree Pruning Workship watched a demonstration of how to prune fruit trees. (Photo submitted)

For more information or to apply, email museum@lauraingallswilder.us

NOW HIRING Decorah Community

Schools 2024-2025 EQUIPMENT OPERATOR II

NEEDS:

SECONDARY ROAD DEPARTMENT

Elementary Paraeducator

Winneshiek County Secondary Roads will be accepting applications for the position of “Equipment Operator II” for the Secondary Road Department until 4:00 p.m. Thursday, April 17, 2025 or until the position is filled at the office of the Winneshiek (John Cline)County Engineer, 201 W. Main,Support Decorah, IA to52101. person teachers working with children 1:1 or in a group setting.

Applications and job description are available at the Engineers Office and www.winneshiekcounty.org/jobs.html Send letter EOEof application and resume 15-3-DL-12

to Principal Rick Varney, 101 Claiborne Winneshiek County Courthouse, 201 W. Main Decorah 563-382-5085 Drive, Decorah, IA St., 52101, or email• rick.

www.winneshiekcounty.org varney@decorah.school by end of the day on April 11, 2025, or open until position is filled.

The Decorah Community School District NOW HIRING is an EEO/AA employer

ASSISTANT CHILDREN’S & YOUNG ADULT LIBRARIAN 14-2-LD-12

The Decorah Public Library is seeking an enthusiastic person to fill a full-time Assistant Children’s and Young Adult Librarian position. Ideal candidate will be a dynamic, creative individual who has a passion for serving children, young adults, and families and providing transformative library experiences.

DUTIES

Duties include but are not limited to: planning and implementing programs for children and young adults; providing book recommendations to youth and families; expanding outreach services to local school districts and at off-site events (program-specific duties will be approx. 20 hours/week); and working in a forward-facing customer service role at the library’s front desk (approx. 20 hours/week). This position reports to the Library Director but also receives direction from both the Children’s and Young Adult Librarian and Circulation Manager, as well as collaborating with other library staff. This full-time role requires a varied work schedule that fluctuates day to day and week to week including some evening and weekend hours based on the needs of the Children’s and Young Adult department. PTO requests generally need to be arranged around critical program times including June and July.

QUALIFICATIONS

Exemplary customer service skills; excellent oral and written communication skills; a passion for working with children, young adults, and families; willingness to develop working knowledge of children’s and young adult literature and library materials for youth in various formats; the ability to form effective collaborative relationships with schools and other community organizations who serve children; the ability to quickly respond to and solve problems; a high degree of empathy, diplomacy, and patience; superior listening skills; a friendly, approachable style that children and teens gravitate to; and curiosity, creativity, and innovative thinking.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Demonstrated ability to relate to children individually and in groups and to provide stimulating activities which interest them. Consideration may be given for an appropriate combination of related educational, professional, and volunteer experiences. Must have (or be willing to obtain within one year) State Library of Iowa Staff Certification.

Spanish language skills desired. Lifelong learners with a willingness to continuously re-evaluate best practices and a passion for serving youth are encouraged to apply. Position subject to post-offer physical examination including drug testing, background check and motor vehicle records check.

TO APPLY

Full job description available at www.decorahlibrary.org. For more information e-mail ktorresdal@decorahlibrary.org or call 563-382-3717.

Send application, resume, cover letter and a minimum of three professional references to: Kristin Torresdal, Director, Decorah Public Library, 202 Winnebago St., Decorah IA 52101 or ktorresdal@decorahlibrary.org.

Position open until filled; first review of applications will be May 1. Desired start date June 2. Starting wage $18.30/hr. Competitive benefit package offered.

M/F Disabled and Veteran EEO/AA Employer

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202 Winnebago St., Decorah, IA | 563-382-3717 www.decorahlibrary.org

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The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation is raising money to help protect 21 acres of creek-bed in Allamakee County — just east of Quandahl. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Organizer said a pair of fruit tree workshops hosted last month by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach empowered homeowners, gardeners and horticulture enthusiasts with hands-on skills in pruning and grafting. The Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop, held on March 25 near Ossian, provided insights into proper pruning techniques and the benefits of structured tree maintenance for the 21 attendees. ISU Extension and Outreach Commercial Horticulture Specialist Patrick O’Malley, led the session, and attendees shared how they plan to use the knowledge gained, highlighting a range of personal and community benefits.

Some plan to apply grafting techniques to expand their orchards or grow their own trees, while others intend to use these skills for senior projects, personal fruit production and even sharing knowledge with local Master Gardeners. Another Fruit Tree Grafting Workshop, held near West Union, gave participants a hands-on grafting experience. Under O’Mal-

NEWS/SPORTS

A-12 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Hands Off continued from front said. “If we don’t have leaders who will fight for all of us, those in power will keep stripping us of all our freedoms.”

Karen Trewin of Decorah wrapped up the rally by telling the crowd democracy was never meant to be an easy achievement, adding the process requires action on the part of the public.

“Real change doesn’t happen in the comment section,” Trewin said.

“It starts face to face.”

She urged attendees to step outside their Freeport resident Kevin Lee proudcomfort zones and face ly poses during the Hands Off rally those with whom they with the sign he made. The local rally took place Saturday in Decorah. may disagree.

“Remind them — and (Photo by Zach Jensen) ourselves — we are not enemies. We are neighbors,” Trewin said. “That takes courage.”

She went on to say each member of a community has a role to play in that effort.

“Democracy doesn’t require perfection, but it needs participation — your voice, your hands, your effort,” Trewin said. “Be bold enough to be uncomfortable, brave enough to listen and strong enough to show up. Outrage is a spark, but action keeps the fire going. This is where the work begins.”

Several young faces were seen among Saturday’s crowd during the Hands Off rally in Decorah.

(Photo by Zach Jensen)

An estimated 500 people attended the Hands Off rally Saturday at Mary Christopher Park in Decorah. The rally was held to protest numerous policies, orders and other decisions made by President Donald Trump, which a number of speakers argue are negatively impacting private citizens, federally-funded programs and the national economy. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Trojans march out of the gates with stellar runs

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com

NFV Early Bird boys’ team scores 1. Oelwein 188; 2. Clayton Ridge 130; 3. Turkey Valley 76; 4. North Fayette Valley 75; 5. Tripoli 38; 6. West Central 27; 7. Kee 23; 8.

Postville 10 NFV Early Bird girls’ team scores 1. Crestwood 164; 2. North Fayette Valley 124; 3. Oelwein 84.5; 4. Turkey Valley 60; 5. Kee 57; 6.

Clayton Ridge 33; 7. Tripoli 28.5; 8.

West Central 20; 9. Postville 4

The weather wasn’t chilly on Friday, but it wasn’t warm either as temps didn’t reach 50 degrees in the first week of April. That didn’t seem to bother the Trojans as the boys and girls track squads came up with some stellar times in the outdoor opener at West Union during the North Fayette Valley Early Bird Invite Friday.

For the boys “For the first meet out the boys ran really well,” said Coach Mark Scott. “They were all competitive – all the boys were, even if they got first, second or eighth. They were running hard.”

The Trojans placed third in the team standings with 76 points, just ahead of the host TigerHawks’ 75.

The first meet of the spring sports season was such a success that TV ran quicker times in the sprint medley and distance medley than any Trojan contingents ran all of last season in those relays.

Those aforementioned relays took home the blue ribbon, as did TV’s 4x400 relay of sophomores Kaden Schmidt, Isaiah Wheeler, along with juniors J.D. Kruse and Dairean Keyes.

The group ran a 3:49.82, just four seconds off TV’s best run in that event last year.

“The relays that we ran, we basically ran the last part of it all by ourselves because they didn’t get pushed. It’s hard to run some of those races when you’re just running all by yourself,” said Scott.

Wheeler, sophomore Hugo Busta, Schmidt and JD Kruse ran 1:42.13 to cross the tape first in the sprint med. Schmidt, JD Kruse, Keyes and Busta joined forces to take down the distance medley with an impressive clip of 3:59.15.

“Everybody else is running in the same weather,” said Scott. “All I told them is make sure they warmed up and between races not to just sit and get tightened up because it was cool enough if they didn’t warm up in between races you can end up hurting yourself.”

Busta ran to a runner-up finish in the open 800 in a time of 2:18.07.

DECORAH’S CITYWIDE

GARAGE SALE SATURDAY, MAY 3

Suggested sale hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A $25 fee goes towards the publication of a city map showing the location of the garage sales within city limits and a listing of 25 words or less of the items for sale. Sales outside the city limits will receive a listing of 25 words or less and have their address printed near the map indicating the direction of the sale.

Map and listing will be published in the Decorah Leader May 1.

Please return the form, along with $25 to Decorah Leader, 110 Washington St., Suite 4, Decorah, IA 52101 OR Call 563-382-4221 or EMAIL: classifieds@decorahnewspapers.com

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DECORAH CITYWIDE GARAGE SALE Mail this form along with the $25.00 fee to: Decorah Leader, P.O. Box 350, Decorah, IA 52101

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Members of the Turkey Valley boys’ track and field team this season are (front row, l-r) Tyler Forbes, Dominick Reicks, Caleb Kriener, Jacob Wurzer, Dawson Humpal, Dairean Keyes, John Forbes, Levi Kruse; (back row) Coach Mark Scott, Jayden Rausch, Tucker Tlusty, Isaiah Wheeler, Kaden Schmidt, J.D. Kruse, Hugo Busta, Brayden Hoffert, Tucker Reicks and Cole Fencl. (Photo courtesy of Tammy Vrzak) Scott, along with his squad, was happy the meet was not postponed or cancelled because of cooler temps.

“They were kind of anxious to get out on a real track.

They don’t get to practice on a real track. Their attitudes have been great this year,” said Scott.

“They would have probably been disappointed if we would have called that off.”

Top for the girls As far as season openers go, the Turkey Valley girls track team can’t complain.

TV sophomore Hazel Nieman took first in the open 200 dash (27.99) and 400 dash (1:09.68).

“She’s has crushed her times.

She is better than what she ended last year’s season with,” said girls’ coach Sarah Bakula.

“She’s stronger than she was last year – fitness-wise and strength-wise.”

Both those sprint times were faster than what Nieman ran as freshman last spring in those events. In fact, the open 400 was six seconds faster than the time cranked out by the NFV timing system. Bakula and cohead coach Dalton Hackman each had Nieman at 1:03, over two seconds faster than her previous career best.

“Somehow the timing system added six seconds, which is unfortunate,” said Bakula. “It was highly unlikely that both of us had wrong times by the same amount.”

Bella Stika, another standout sophomore for TV, won the open 800 in a time of 2:31.37.

Her best time in that event last year was 2:36.71.

TV’s first-place 4x400 relay smashed their previous best run

in that event from 2024 with a 4:34.47, over 11 seconds faster than last spring’s best effort.

The 2025 group was made up of junior Jenna Throndson, Nieman, sophomore Kendall Kuennen and Stika.

The Trojans’ winning sprint medley relay also impressed with the foursome of Throndson, freshman Alexis Gruenberg, Nieman and Stika. The pairing crossed the finish line in 1:57.84 – almost two seconds faster than last year.

“They all ran better than we expected. We put them in at a 1:57, obviously assuming that could happen, but that doesn’t always happen. To actually see it come to fruition was pretty amazing,” Bakula said of the sprint medley gold-medal performance.

TV sophomore Ellaney Bodensteiner shattered her PR in the discus with a third place throw of 92-9.5. Her previous career-best was 82 feet.

“That just speaks to how everyone’s trained over the last year. We’re just getting stronger working on those techniques,” said Bakula.

TV placed fourth in the team standings with 60 points.

Bakula noted the meet forced spectators and athletes alike to wear multiple layers of clothing because of the cool temps, but the TV head coach didn’t seem to mind the low temps.

“It might have gotten a little bit chilly, but it was actually a perfect meet,” said Bakula.

Cole Fencl 28’0.75” Discus – 10. Reicks 76’6.5” 100m – 7. Isaiah Wheeler 12.47; 13. Caleb Kriener 13.45; 14. Levi Kruse 13.61; 18. Tyler Forbes 14.77 200m – 3. Dairean Keyes 24.35; 16. T. Forbes 31.22; 17. Fencl 31.47 400m – 4. Jayden Rausch 1:03.95; 8. Dawson Humpal 1:11.34; 10. T. Forbes 1:13.73; 12.

John Forbes 1:19.88 800m – 2. Hugo Busta 2:18.07; 10. Brayden Hoffert 2:47.66 1600m – 6. Rausch 5:45.88; 12.

J. Forbes 7:19.12 110m hurdles – 5. Kriener 20.77 400m hurdles – 3. Kriener 1:09.66 4x100 – 5. Wurzer, L. Kruse, Tucker Tlusty, Dominick Reicks 52.29; 7. Humpal, Fencl, T. Reicks, Hoffert 58.05 4x200 – 3. Wurzer, L. Kruse, Tlusty, T. Reicks 1:49.16 4x400 – 1. Kaden Schmidt, Wheeler, JD Kruse, Keyes, 3:49.82 4x800 – 2. Rausch, D. Reicks, Tlusty, Hoffert 10:36.9 Sprint medley – 1. Wheeler, Busta, Schmidt, Kruse 1:42.13 Distance medley – 1. Schmidt, JD Kruse, Keyes, Busta 3:59.15 Girls results Long jump – 13. Kendall Kuennen 13’9.5” Shot put – 8.

Ellaney Bodensteiner 30’2.75”; 13. Nora Chicken 24’11.5”; 14. Courtney Ball 23’10.75” Discus – 3. Bodensteiner 92’9.5”; 10. Jenna Throndson 76’4”; 12. Chicken 71’9.5” 100m – 9. Chicken 15.15; 11.

Emersyn Hoffert 15.28 200m – 1. Hazel Nieman 27.99; 9. Brynlee Hayek 29.56; 20. Hoffert 32.86 400m – 1. Nieman 1:09.68 800m – 1. Bella Stika 2:31.37; 4.

Kuennen 2:54.51 100m hurdles – 20. Jocelyn Desloover 20.72 4x100 – 10. Hoffert, Hayek, DeSloover, Ball 1:03.26 4x200 – 7. Hoffert, Hayek, DeSloover, Ball 2:13.89 4x400 – 1. Throndson, Nieman, Kuennen, Stika 4:34.47 Sprint medley – 1. Throndson, Alexis Gruenberg, Nieman, Stika 1:57.84

Boys results Shot put – 10. Jacob Wurzer 30’9”; 11. Tucker Reicks 28’3”; 12.

Coming up in area varsity sports

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Ready to run on the ovals for the Turkey Valley girls’ track and field team this season are (front row, l-r) Courtney Ball, Jenna Throndson, Hazel Nieman, Kendall Kuennen, Addison Steinlage, Raelen Manderfield, Nora Chicken; (back row) Coach Dalton Hackman, Bella Stika, Emersyn Hoffert, Brynlee Hayek, Jocelynn DeSloover, Alexis Gruenberg, Ellaney Bodensteiner and Coach Sarah Bakula. (Photo courtesy of Tammy Vrzak)

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April 10 – Dec b golf host tnmt. (Oneota), 1 p.m.; Dec g golf at Winona Senior, 2 p.m.; SW/TV b tr at Postville, 4:30 p.m.; Dec b tr at Waverly-Shell Rock, 5 p.m.; Dec/SW/TV g tr at Decorah, 5 p.m.; Dec b soc vs. Dubuque Senior, 6:30 p.m.

April 11 – Dec b ten vs. Osage, 4:30 p.m.; Dec g soc vs. North Fayette Valley, 5 p.m.

April 12 – Dec b ten at Mason City, 9 a.m.; Dec g soc at Dubuque Senior, 10 a.m.; Dec b soc vs. Dubuque Hempstead, 11:30 a.m.

April 14 – Dec b golf at New Hampton, 4 p.m.; SW golf vs. MFL MarMac (Calmar), 4 p.m.; TV golf at North Fayette Valley, 4 p.m.; Dec/SW b tr at Decorah, 5 p.m.; Dec b/g soc vs. Independence, 5 p.m.

April 15 – Dec g golf vs. Independence (Silvercrest), 4 p.m.; Dec g ten vs. Charles City, 4 p.m.; Dec g tr at Hudson/Waukon, 4:30 p.m.; TV g/b tr at Nashua-Plainfield, 4:30 p.m.; Dec b soc at Postville, 5 p.m.

April 17 – Dec g golf vs. New Hampton (Oneota), 4 p.m.; SW golf vs. Central Elkader (Ossian), 4 p.m.; TV golf vs. Postville, 4 p.m.; Dec g ten vs. Waverly-Shell Rock, 4:30 p.m.; Dec b ten at AplingtonParkersburg, 4:30 p.m.; Dec b tr at West Delaware, 4:30 p.m.; TV g/b tr at New Hampton, 4:30 p.m.; Dec g soc vs. Mason City, 5 p.m.; Dec b soc at Mason City, 5 p.m.; Dec/SW g tr at Decorah, 5 p.m.

SPORTS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

A-13

Ready for spring; SW boys open season Viking girls hit the pitch with energy

With the Frost Open at Sumner-Fredericksburg cancelled earlier last week, the South Winn boys track and field team managed to squeeze into the Waukon early bird meet Thursday to get a taste of the outdoor competition. Monday’s meet at Decorah was moved to Tuesday, allowing an extra day of rest and practice for the Warriors.

Thursday in Waukon Kicking off the season in Waukon, the Warriors battled seven other squads to finish fifth in team standings with 65.5 points. Decorah won the meet with 166 points.

South Winn had two events finish with the gold. Kaden Barton-Franzen was the high jump champion, clearing the bar at 6 feet even. Eric Greve raced to the 200-meter dash finish line first in 24.51 seconds.

Barton-Franzen and Greve later teamed up with Irving Flores and Brennan Franzen in the 4x100 relay for silver in 47.03 seconds. Gavin Feickert, Ethan Oyloe, Cody Bodensteiner and Andy Acahua took bronze in the weightmen 4x100 relay. They posted a time of 52.37.

Waukon team scores 1. Decorah 166; 2. Waterloo West 125; 3. Crestwood 92; 4. Waukon 89; 5. South Winn 65.5; 6. Central Elkader 57.5; 7. MFL MarMac 53; 8.

Kee 34 Varsity race results High jump – 1. Kaden BartonFranzen 6’0”; 5. Irving Flores 5’6” Long jump – 4. Gavin Feickert 18’2.5”; 10. Camden Bullerman 15’4” Shot put – 13. Kyle Kuboushek 33’8”; 15. Shayde Wermers 29’4” Discus – 8. Tristen Bodensteiner 103’5”; 9. Landen Schnuelle 99’3” 100m – 8. Eric Greve 12.45; 12.

Adam Schmitt 13.58 200m – 1. Greve 24.51; 9.

Feickert 25.80 400m – 4. Brennan Franzen 55.58 800m – 8. Hugh Conway 2:18.91; 9. Cameron Einck 2:19.00

Hugh Conway (left) took the baton from Brad Dahl for the final leg of the sprint medley relay Tuesday. (Photo by Becky Walz) 1600m – 10. Caden Tieskoetter 6:04.71; 11. Clayton Kuboushek 6:05.73 110m hurdles – 5. BartonFranzen 17.27 400m hurdles – 9. Landon Livingood 1:06.71; 11. Jordan Einck 1:12.06 4x100 – 2. Greve, Flores, Franzen, Barton-Franzen 47.03 4x100 weighmen – 3. Feickert, Ethan Oyloe, Cody Bodensteiner, Andy Acahua 52.37 4x200 – 4. Bullerman, Schmitt, Kuboushek, Schnuelle 1:44.13 4x400 – 6. Brad Dahl, Conway, C. Einck, Acahua 4:11.35 4x800 – 4. Conway, C. Einck, Tieskoetter, Kuboushek 9:53.03 Sprint medley – 6. Greve, Livingood, Franzen, Dahl 1:46.22 Distance medley – 5. Livingood, J. Einck, Feickert, Dahl 4:15.45

At Decorah The Warriors returned to action at Decorah Tuesday, a day later than originally scheduled, to compete in the Decorah Early Bird meet with four other area squads. South Winn collected 57 points to finish fifth.

While no first place finishes were recorded by the Warriors, they did have a pair of runner-up and third place finishes.

Gavin Feickert took silver in the long jump with a distance of 18 feet, 5 inches. Eric Greve took runner-up in the 200-meter dash in 24.44 seconds.

In the high jump, Kaden Barton-Franzen cleared the bar at 6 feet even to finish third and it took 57.83 seconds for Brad Dahl to garner third in the 400-meter dash. The 4x100 relay of Greve, Irving Flores, Brennan Franzen and Barton-Franzen took bronze. The quartet had a time of 46.56 seconds.

Decorah Early Bird team scores 1. Decorah 226.5; 2. Mason City 116.5; 3. New Hampton 96; 4.

Waukon 60; 5. South Winn 57 Varsity race results High jump – 3. Kaden BartonFranzen 6’0”; 4. Lukas Weiss 5’6”; 7. Jordan Einck 5’4”; 8. Irving Flores 5’4” Long jump – 2. Gavin Feickert 18’5”; 10. Camden Bullerman 16’3”; 15. Levi Feickert 15’1” Shot put – 16. Kyle Kuboushek 34’8”; 20. Tristen Bodensteiner 33’0”; 26. Landen Schnuelle 31’4”; 32. Shayde Wermers 28’11”; 32.

Henry Willey 28’11”; 36. Ethan Oyloe 28’4”; 38. Cody Bodensteiner 27’11”; 45. Mason Cox 22’11” Discus – 11. Schnuelle 111’8”; 16. T. Bodensteiner 98’8”; 21. Willey 91’9”; 24. Kuboushek 88’5”; 36.

Oyloe 72’9”; 39. C. Bodensteiner 69’1”; 43. Wermers 65’2”; 45. Cox 42’6” 100m – 4. Eric Greve 11.93; 7.

Weiss 12.16; 9. Brennan Franzen 12.28; 11. Irving Flores 12.33; 14.

Bullerman 12.42; 16. G. Feickert 12.54; 19. Barton-Franzen 12.69; 19. Schnuelle 12.69; 21. Landon Livingood 12.72; 22. Andy Acahua 12.74; 24. Jordan Einck 12.80; 27. Kuboushek 12.93; 32. Adam Schmitt 13.09; 38. Landon Humpal 13.28; 49. Yahir Macario 14.11; 53. Tyler Fels 15.33; 57. Brendon Riehle 15.80 200m – 2. Greve 24.44; 6.

Franzen 24.89; 11. Bullerman 25.54; 12. Barton-Franzen 25.71; 16. Schnuelle 26.14; 17. G. Feickert 26.15; 18. Livingood 26.19; 23.

Acahua 26.76; 24. J. Einck 26.80; 25. Kuboushek 26.88; 28. Schmitt 27.24; 33. Humpal 27.80; 40.

Macario 29.44; 43. Fels 33.37; 45.

Riehle 35.40 400m – 3. Brad Dahl 57.83 800m – 4. Hugh Conway 2:13.89; 5. Cameron Einck 2:19.91; 13.

Caden Tieskoetter 2:33.69; 15.

Clayton Kuboushek 2:38.45; 17. L. Feickert 2:45.10 4x100 – 3. Greve, Flores, Franzen, Barton-Franzen 46.56 4x200 – 11. Wermers, Willey, Oyloe, Schmitt 1:55.87 Sprint medley – 5. Livingood, Franzen, Dahl, Conway 1:46.71; 10.

Acahua, Schmitt, Kuboushek, C. Einck 1:47.68; 11. Humpal, Riehle, Macario, Tieskoetter 2:02.04

Lady Vikes run away with Patrick Murphy invite title

Landon Livingood had a burst of energy at the gun as he led off the Warrior sprint medley relay Tuesday in Decorah.

(Photo by Becky Walz)

SW boys win first tourney

After Saturday’s meet at Cedar Rapids Jefferson was cancelled, the Decorah girls track and field got the chance to navigate outdoor competition Tuesday in Dubuque at the Patrick Murphy Invite. The Vikings showcased their depth in several events to take the title with 166 points, well ahead of second place Western Dubuque who tallied 121.

Decorah finished the day with five golds with Renae Wilson earning a pair of individual medals. The junior cleared the bar a 5 feet 4 inches to win the high jump. In 15.52 seconds, Wilson added the 100-meter hurdle title to her day.

It was freshman Grace Tangen taking home gold in the shot put. She sent the weight 38 feet, 0.5 inch to win by a foot over teammate Lauren Luzum. Tangen also claimed silver in the discus with a distance of 120 feet, 1 inch.

Stella Pole broke the tape in the 100-meter dash, crossing the finish line in 12.84 seconds. She later combined her talents with McKenzie Riley, Cassandra Stammeyer and Audrey Essa to win the 4x200 relay in 1:45.41.

In 1:09.51, the shuttle hurdle quartet of Kelby Kerndt, Kennady Riehle, Addisyn Ivy and Wilson claimed silver. Rounding out the top three finishes for the Vikings was the 4x100 relay of Kerndt, Wilson, Ava Holthaus and Eden Northup. They had a time of 52.09 seconds.

Varsity results High jump – 1. Renae Wilson 5’4”; 8. Lauren Holthaus 4’2” Long jump – 9. Addisyn Ivy 14’11.5”; 11. Jerikah Dodd 13’11.5” Shot put – 1. Grace Tangen 38’0.5”; 2. Lauren Luzum 37’0.5” Discus – 2. Tangen 120’1”; 6.

Annika Schmelzer 98’0” 100m – 1. Stella Pole 12.84; 8.

Cassandra Stammeyer 13.60 200m – 5. Eden Northup 28.62; 7. Ava Holthaus 28.97 400m – 8. Olivia Volkmann 1:12.25 800m – 7. Eva Hurley 2:41.22; 12. Simone Downing 2:47.77 1500m – 5. Lily Sandhorst 5:33.85; 9. Natalie Stevens 5:50.87 3000m – 6. Brinlee Courtney 12:12.30; 7. Riley Christopher 12:20.95 100m hurdles – 1. Wilson 15.52; 7. Ivy 18.07 400m hurdles – 5. Lillian Olson 1:14.30; 6. Raelyn Newhouse 1:14.43 Shuttle hurdle – 2. Kelby Kerndt, Kennady Riehle, Ivy, Wilson 1:09.51 4x100 – 3. Kerndt, Wilson, A. Holthaus, Northup 52.09 4x200 – 1. Pole, McKenzie Riley, Stammeyer, Audrey Essa 1:45.41 4x400 – 4. Riley, Essa, Stammeyer, Pole 4:15.20 4x800 – 4. Newhouse, Hurley, Volkmann, Olson 10:19.92 Sprint medley – 4. Kerndt, Riley, A. Holthaus Northup 1:57.82 Distance medley – 5. Ella Stille, Caylee Malanaphy, Dodd, Sandhorst 4:41.75

in the first and added a pair of goals in the second half.

“Hudson is a very good, senior-led team that put us on our heels, scoring early in the first half and pushing the ball relent-

lessly at our defense,” noted coach Hendrickson. “We held better in the second half with a much better defensive effort but could only put a couple good attacks forward.”

Decorah’s Regine Hougen (23) works the ball down the pitch against a Hudson defender during Tuesday’s home match.

(Photo by Becky Walz)

Warrior girls earn three golds at Jesup 100m – 7. Allison Hageman 14.90 200m – 4. Cloey Zweibohmer 28.82; 5.

Katie Shimek 29.45 800m – 3. Karissa Wenthold 2:48.99; 5.

Vanessa Bullerman 2:54.77 1500m – 1. Annie Hitting the oval for Hageman 5:45.65; 3.

Lauren Ondrashek the first time outdoors Kelsey Timp Izzy Kuboushek Annie Hageman 6:02.40 Tuesday night, the 3000m – 2. Tessa South Winn girls’track Phillips 12:46.73 100m hurdles – 4. Izzy and field team had a lot to cel- boushek broke the tape in the Kuboushek 19.54; 5. Peters 20.63 ebrate as it claimed three golds. 400-meter hurdles in 1:20.94.

400m hurdles – 1. Kuboushek Picking up silvers for South 1:20.94; 2. Peters 1:29.47 The host, Jesup, broke the meet 4x100 – 3. Emmy Gehling, into Class A and Class B di- Winn was Jena Peters in the Alyssa Holthaus, Al. Hageman, visions, according to school 400-meter hurdles and Tes- Britney Hageman 54.49; 8. Hayden size. The Warriors were placed sa Phillips in the 3000-meter Steffans, Charlotte Moonen, Lia Schissel 1:00.59 among the smaller schools and run. The Warriors also had six Vsetecka, 4x200 – 3. Shimek, Adele finished second to Wapsie Val- events finish third.

Conway, Alexis Johanningmeier, Maddy Jansen 1:56.33; 8. Steffans, ley with 108 points.

Girls results Moonen, Vsetecka, Schissel All three titles came in indiLong jump – 4. Jena Peters 4x800 – 3. An. Hageman, Wenthold, Kuboushek, Ondrashek vidual events. Kelsey Timp took 14’5” Shot put – 5. Emily Hovden the discus title with her throw of 30’10.5”; 11. Jayden Timp 27’2”; 12. 11:13.12 Sprint medley – 3. Shimek, 91 feet, 5 inches. Annie Hage- Gracie Walz 26’9” Zweibohmer, Jansen, Conway Discus – 1. Kelsey Timp 91’5”; 2:01.19 man topped the 1500-meter run 3. Hovden 84’5”; 5. McKenna Looby field in 5:45.65 while Izzy Ku- 80’0” Jesup Class B team scores 1. Wapsie Valley 156; 2. South Winn 108; 3.

Edgewood-Colesburg 88; 4. Maquoketa Valley 81; 5. North Linn; 6. Don Bosco 13

Tough matches to start season for Decorah boys The Decorah boys’ soccer team (0-3-1) opened the season and has already had a busy first week of competition, facing Cedar Falls, competing in the Hudson tournament and traveling to Waverly-Shell Rock.

At home Thursday against Cedar Falls (1-0), the Vikings worked hard but fell 4-1 to the Tigers, who scored twice in each half. Decorah’s lone goal came in the first by junior Ian Giddings who had both of the Vikes’ shots on goal. Standing in goal, Garrison Grinna came away with 10 saves.

Competing in the five-team Hudson tournament Saturday, Decorah tied 1-1 with Assumption (1-0-1) and came up with a 6-0 loss to Waterloo West (2-0-1).

The Vikes had six total shots on goal versus

Assumption with Giddings accounting for half of them, scoring once. Will Larson had two while Oak Pasche fired off one.

Against Waterloo West, Decorah had four shots on the goal with two each from Larson and Reid Berns.

Tuesday night was another big test for the Vikings as they took on Waverly-Shell Rock (1-1) on the road, falling 4-2. Decorah scored a goal in each half, while the Go-Hawks doubled them up.

As a team, the Vikings had nine shots on goal with Giddings and Oliver Bollinger sending one into the net. Giddings had four shots on the goal, while Will Larson, Reid Berns, Bollinger, Gavin Luzum and Noah Milburn all had one.

Suiting up and running onto the pitch this season on the varsity Decorah boys’ soccer team are (front row, l-r) Gavin Luzum, Kelton Casterton, Brayan Ortiz Gonzalez, Alex Macario, Will Larson, Oak Pasche; (middle row) Jack DeLaRosa, Brigham Bishop, Oliver Bollinger, Garrison Grinna, Jameson LaBelle, Logan Fortman, Liam Huang, Reid Berns; (back row) Assistant Coach Andrew Davis, Head Coach Zach Shearer, Sawyer Courtney, Riley Berns, Ian Giddings, Noah Milburn, Tanner Caddell, Caden Malanaphy and Assistant Coach Josh Giddings. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

Pre-Owned

On a course for its first competition of the season, the South Winn boys golf team came away with a victory Monday at the 18-hole Big Rock Invitational held at Big Rock Country Club in Fayette on Tuesday, April 8. Full results are linked below.

South Winn carded a 321 for the win. Other teams competing were Waukon (352), North Fayette Valley (353) and Clayton Ridge (395).

The Warriors swept the top three medalist honors as Matson Winings, Cale Kleppe and Carson Streeter all carded 80s.

Jackson Goltz rounded out the scoring for South Winn with an 81. Others on the links were Braiden Todd (82) and Carver Wenthold (92).

“This was about as good a start to the season as we could reasonably hope for.

Everyone played very well, highlighted by our top five scorers finishing in the top five overall. Our depth really came through, competing well on a challenging course. This is a great first step in the right direction,” said coach Mike Wenthold.

The Warrior girls were also on the course in competition in Fayette; however, results were not available at press time.

Patrick Murphy Invite team scores 1. Decorah 166; 2. Western Dubuque 121; 3. Wahlert 74; 4.

Dubuque Senior 70; 5. Dubuque Hempstead 63; 6. West Delaware 53; 7. Monticello 26; 8. Northeast 14; 9. Cascade 14; 10. Marquette Catholic 0

It was a first taste of competition for the Decorah girls soccer team (0-2) last week and this as the Vikings competed against Dubuque Hempstead and Hudson.

Thursday, Decorah traveled to Dubuque to battle the Mustangs (1-1), falling 2-0. The Vikings gave up a penalty kick 10 minutes into the first half and another midway through the second half despite valiant defensive efforts.

The Vikes had just one shot on goal which came from sophomore Regine Hougen. Meanwhile, freshman goalie Taylor Sloan-Dahl came up with nine saves.

“I think we played pretty good defense throughout the game against a pretty good Hempstead team,” said coach Loren Hendrickson.

Tuesday, Decorah welcomed Hudson to its home pitch coming away with a 6-0 loss to the Pirates who scored four times

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SPORTS

A-14 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Decorah girls on the courts for first time The Decorah girls tennis team opened the season Saturday at the Chuck Schupbach Memorial Invitation Tournament (formally known as the Top Gun Tournament) on Saturday.

Monday’s dual match versus Osage was postponed until Friday, April 25.

Decorah 4x800 relay runners Grant Zilka (left) and Bennett Coppola cheer teammates Bill Fullhart (second from right) and Thomas Hammel to the exchange zone during the Early Bird meet held in Decorah Tuesday. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Back-to-back wins for Viking boys on the oval

Early in the 2025 season the Decorah boys track and field team is already dominating the oval, picking up team titles at Waukon Thursday and its home Early Bird meet Tuesday night.

Winners at Waukon Eight schools took part in the Waukon Early Bird meet Thursday, featuring mostly northeast Iowa teams, but it was Decorah who came out on top with 166 points over Waterloo West, who scored 125 points.

The Vikes had eight events claim the gold medal.

Carter Riley got things started right in the discus with a throw of 124 feet, 6 inches for the top spot.

Moving on to the running events, the 4x800 busted out a time of 8:24.68 to win. Members of the team were Mitchell Stemper, Bill Fullhart, Grant Zilka and Thomas Hammel.

Clarence Nimrod ran to the front of the 3200-meter run pack, winning in 10:25.76. Taking first in the 1600-meter run was Fullhart. The sophomore had a time of 4:52.80. Josh Adam was also an individual winner. He claimed first in 15.37 seconds in the 110-meter hurdles.

Three relays were the best of the class as well. The distance medley quartet of Davis Walter, Mason Avila, Ray Hayek and Davis Coppola stopped the clock at 3:56.26. In the 4x100 weightman relay it was Thatcher Brown, Ryan Northup, Nathan Friend and Luke Franzen breaking the tape in 49.16 seconds. In 3:31.95, it was Stemper, Zach Driscoll, Max Grimstad and Avila winning the 4x400 relay.

Waukon team scores 1. Decorah 166; 2. Waterloo West 125; 3. Crestwood 92; 4. Waukon 89; 5.

South Winn 65.5; 6. Central Elkader 57.5; 7. MFL MarMac 53; 8. Kee 34 Varsity race results High jump – 2. Peyton Webb 5’10” Long jump – 2. Trevor Kuennen 19’6”; 5. Ashton Saltou 18’2” Shot put – 2. Henry Brynsaas 45’5”;

5. Luke Franzen 40’8” Discus – 1. Carter Riley 124’6”; 2.

Franzen 116’1” 100m – 6. Kade O’Hara 12.24; 11.

Griffin Brauer 12.49 200m – 8. Archer Sims 25.74; 11.

Karter Orris 25.95 400m – 5. Parker Low 57.31; 7.

D’Mitry Lesser 1:00.68 800m – 4. Garrett See 2:03.63; 5.

Bennett Coppola 2:03.98 1600m – 1. Bill Fullhart 4:52.80; 2.

Davis Coppola 4:55.63 3200m – 1. Clarence Nimrod 10:25.76; 4. Lesser 10:34.35 110m hurdles – 1. Josh Adam 15.37; 7. Riley 18.61 400m hurdles – 2. Saltou 58.59; 6.

Kyle Pattison 1:03.81 Shuttle hurdle – 4. Riley, Brayden Miculinich, Kyan Oftedahl, Dakota VanGundy, 1:14.63 4x100 weighmen – 1. Thatcher Brown, Ryan Northup, Nathan Friend, Franzen, 49.16 4x200 – 2. Landon Quandahl, Grant Remington, Zach Driscoll, Kuennen, 1:34.58 4x400 – 1. Mitchell Stemper, Driscoll, Max Grimstad, Mason Avila, 3:31.95 4x800 – 1. Stemper, Fullhart, Grant Zilka, Thomas Hammel, 8:24.68 Sprint medley – 2. Pattison, Remington, Jace Buddenberg, Orris, 1:43.93 Distance medley – 1. Davis Walter, Avila, Ray Hayek, D. Coppola, 3:56.26

First home meet Decorah ran away with the team title Tuesday night with 226.5 points, over 100 more than runner-up Mason City. But it should be no surprise as the Vikes tallied 11 first place finishes.

Trevor Kuennen and William Hahn were winners in the field events. Kuennen won the long jump with a leap of 19 feet, 11.5 inches, while Hahn threw the shot put 51 feet, 3 inches.

In the individual running events, Decorah picked up four wins. Ashton Saltou blew by the 200-meter competition to win in 23.80 seconds. In 54.62 seconds it was Max Grimstad winning the 400-meter dash. Garrett See and Grant Zilka raced to the finish line together in the 1600-meter run, going 1-2 with See edging Zilka. See posted a time of 4:35.88, while Zilka finished in 4:36.59.

Five relays also won. Kade O’Hara, Landon Quandahl, Josh Adam and Mason Avila got things started in the sprint medley relay, crossing the finish line in 1:38.63.

Mason Avila gets ready to take off with the baton for the final leg of the sprint medley as Josh Adam hands off the stick Tuesday. (Photo by Becky Walz)

In 8:17.59, the 4x800 relay took first. Members of the winning quartet were Thomas Hammel, Zilka, See and D’Mitry Lesser.

The distance medley relay of Ashton Saltou, Davis Walter, Kuennen and Hammel blazed around the track in 3:54.06 to win their gold.

As the end of the night was nearing, the 4x100 relay got the job done in 43.80 seconds. Racing for the Vikings were Quandahl, Adam, Walter and Peyton Webb.

Mitchell Stemper, Zach Driscoll, Avila and Kuennen rounded out the wins for Decorah in the 4x400 relay. They combined their talents for a time of 3:42.40 for the win.

Decorah Early Bird team scores 1. Decorah 226.5; 2. Mason City 116.5; 3. New Hampton 96; 4. Waukon 60; 5. South Winn 57 Varsity race results High jump – 2. Peyton Webb 6’0”; 5.

Parker Low 5’4”; 6. Thomas Davis 5’4” Long jump – 1. Trevor Kuennen 19’11.5”; 3. Dakota VanGundy 17’10”; 4. Davis Walter 17’7”; 5. Kellen O’Gara 17’5”; 9. Zander McConnell 16’5.5”; 12.

Lucas Wymer 16’1.5”; 14. Ashton Saltou 15’1.5” Shot put – 1. William Hahn 51’3”; 2.

Luke Franzen 45’1”; 4. Henry Brynsaas 43’11”; 9. Thatcher Brown 38’0”; 10. Cash Riehle 37’7”; 13. Mason Vote 35’8”; 18.

Nathan Friend 34’3”; 25. Anthony Putnam 31’10”; 28. William Tallier 30’5”; 29. Ezra Harman-Wood 29’10”; 31. Cooper Ewing 29’4”; 39. Isaac Bentley 27’3”; 41. Nathan Rhodes 26’4”; 43. Matthew Burkholder 25’7” Discus – 2. Brynsaas 129’7”; 4. Carter Riley 122’4”; 5. Hahn 120’1”; 12. Brown 103’7”; 13. Franzen 102’11”; 22. Northup 89’3”; 28. Vote 82’9”; 29. Rhodes 80’1”; 32. Tallier 79’8”; 34. Harmon-Wood 74’7”; 37. Bentley 71’8”; 40. Friend 68’5”; 41.

Putnam 66’6”; 42. Ewing 65’5” 100m – 3. Grant Remington 11.90; 5.

Kade O’Hara 12.01; 6. VanGundy 12.11; 11. Ray Hayek 12.33; 15. Gavin Knutson 12.45; 47. Owen Rix 14.01 200m – 1. Saltou 23.80; 3. Max Grimstad 24.78; 8. Jace Buddenberg 25.13; 13. Archer Sims 25.77; 15. Larson 25.91; 19. McConnell 26.36; 29. O’Gara 27.32; 32. Drake Phillips 27.76; 34.

Wymer 28.07; 39. Griffin Brauer 29.22; 41. Rix 30.19 400m – 1. Grimstad 54.62; 4. Karter Orris 58.73; 5. Phillips 59.99 800m – 1. Bill Fullhart 2:10.44; 6.

Landyn Hook 2:21.07; 8. Jayven Neubauer 2:22.23; 10. Esteban Fernandez 2:29.44; 20. Wyatt Birdsell 2:53.96 1600m – 1. Garrett See 4:35.88; 2.

Grant Zilka 4:36.59; 3. Clarence Nimrod 4:59.23; 4. D’Mitry Lesser 5:00.23; 7.

Weston Cote 5:50.92; 9. Camden Kerner 6:05.22; 11. Gavin Wilkins 6:19.98; 12.

Dylan Brincks 6:44.65 3200m – 2. Hook 10:46.55; 3.

Fernandez 11:50.29; 5. Newbauer 12:05.62 110m hurdles – 3. Riley 18.55; 4. Kyan Oftedahl 20.01; 5. Brayden Miculinich 20.25 400m hurdles – 2. Kyle Pattison 1:03.09; 3. Hayek 1:04.49 Shuttle hurdle – 2. Riley, Miculinich, Oftedahl, Thomas Davis 1:15.48 4x100 – 1. Quandahl, Adam, Davis Walter, Webb 43.80; 6. Knutson, Burkholder, Wymer, VanGundy 48.62 4x200 – 2. Zach Driscoll, Adam, Quandahl, Webb 1:32.75; 5. Pattison, Northup, Kaden Tarwater, Carson Bohner 1:41.74 4x400 – 1. Stemper, Driscoll, Avila, Kuennen 3:37.12; 4. Hammel, Zilka, Fullhart, See 3:43.89; 5. B. Coppola, D. Coppola, Hook, Lesser 3:52.12; 6. Brauer, Sims, Tarwater, Bohner 3:52.31 4x800 – 1. Thomas Hammel, Zilka, See, Lesser 8:17.59; 2. Fullhart, Bennett Coppola, Mitchell Stemper, Clarence Nimrod 8:20.94; 6. Kerner, Brincks, Wilkins, Cote 10:44.17 Sprint medley – 1. O’Hara, Landon Quandahl, Josh Adam, Mason Avila 1:38.63; 6. O’Gara, Burkholder, Northup, Orris 1:46.75 Distance medley – 1. Saltou, Walter, Kuennen, Hammel 3:54.06; 4. Owen Larson, Buddenberg, Low, Birdsell 4:57.14

emerging victorious in nearly all their matches.

Chuck Schupback Memorial tnmt. team scores 1. Clinton 32; 2. Decorah 29; 3.

Columbus 15; 4. Ottumwa 14 Singles: No.1 Olivia Huinker (Dec) lost 2-11 to Sescie Haan (Clinton); lost 3-10 to Kate Holton (Columbus); won 9-4 over Nellie Morgan (Ottumwa) No. 2 Kaitlyn Bjork (Dec) lost 5-8 to Maddie Rowden (Clinton); lost 3-10 to Sawyer Schaefer (Columbus); won 11-2 over Emerson Keith (Ottumwa) No. 3 Grace Huinker (Dec) won 7-6 over Elizabeth Grinnall (Clinton); won 9-4 over Abby Ettringer (Columbus); won 9-4 over Jordan Lee (Ottumwa) No. 4 Leah Holland (Dec) won 9-4 over Lou Gonzalez (Clinton); won 11-2 over Caitlin Lockhert (Columbus); won 12-1 over Ava Baners (Ottumwa) No. 5 Jaidyn Duvel (Dec) won 8-5 over Josie Srp (Clinton); won 9-4 over Natalie Merrfield (Columbus); won 10-3 over Jaslyn Parsypo (Ottumwa) No. 6 Camryn Holland (Dec) lost 6-7 to Katie Atkinson (Clinton); won 8-5 over Addison Schares (Columbus); won 11-2 over Madalynn Sertterh (Ottumwa) Doubles No. 1 O. Huinker/G. Huinker (Dec) lost 4-9 to Haan/Rowden (Clinton); lost 4-9 to Holton/ Schaefer (Columbus); won. 11-2 over Morgan/Keith (Osage No. 2 Bjork/Holland (Dec) won 7-6 over Grinnall/Atkinson (Clinton); won 10-3 over Lockhert/Merrfield (Columbus); won 11-2 over Barnes/ Parsypo (Ottumwa) No. 3 Duvel/Klaara Short (Dec) lost 3-10 to Gonzalez/Srp (Clinton); won by forfeit over Ettringer/ Schares (Columbus); won 11-2 over Setterh/Hunter Caldwell (Ottumwa)

In Waterloo It was a second place finish for the Vikings at the Chuck Schupbach Memorial Invitation tournament as Decorah competed against Class 2A Clinton and Ottumwa and Class 1A Waterloo Columbus in Waterloo.

More notable than the second place finish, was a head to head comparison of match results. Two current polls exist for Iowa Girls Tennis. In the “Coaches Poll” produced by @iowahstennis, Decorah is ranked No. 7 and Waterloo Columbus No. 3. In the “Bound” poll, Decorah is ranked No. 9 and Waterloo Columbus No. 4. However, in Saturday’s head-to-head matches, Decorah trounced Waterloo Columbus, 6-3. Against Clinton (seeded No. 4 in the “Bound” poll for Class 2A), Decorah won 5-4, and the team demolished unranked Ottumwa 9-0.

Individually in the tournament, in singles, Decorah’s Olivia Huinker earned third place, falling only to Class 1A singles player Kate Holton of Waterloo Columbus and Class 2A No. 1 singles player Sescie Haan of Clinton.

Kaitlyn Bjork earned second at No. 2 singles as did Camryn Holland at No. 6 singles.

Earning first place were Grace Huinker (No. 3 singles), Leah Holland (No. 4 singles) and Jaidyn Duvel No. 5 singles.

In doubles, Oliviah Huinker partnered with her freshman sister at No. 1 and earned 3rd place. Kaitlyn Bjork and Leah Holland earned a first place finish with an excellent win against Clinton’s No. 2 doubles team of Elizabeth Grinnall and Katie Atkinson. Jaidyn Duvel and Klaara Short earned second place at No. 3 doubles.

Also participating in the meet were a number of JV players, including Klaara Short, Dylin Thompson, Addie Maki and Myla Leitz, playing numerous doubles and singles matches throughout the day, and as a JV team were hugely successful,

It was two wins in two days for the Decorah boys tennis team earlier this week as the season got underway.

Monday the Vikes defeated Winona Cotter 4-3 with a tough road win against a good team with loads of experience.

“We lost top three singles matches with Liam Chamberlian losing a close match but showing his senior leadership and experience. After three doubles victories, it came to sophomore Elliot Berland, playing in his first varsity singles match who gutted out a gritty three-set victory to secure the team win. Cotter is always a tough team and is fun to play because their numbers match ours meaning everyone gets a

Elliot Berland gets set to return the ball during Decorah’s home opener against Independence Tuesday.

(Photo by Becky Walz) match,” said coach Matt Anderson.

On Tuesday Decorah hosted Independence, defeating the Mustangs 9-0 to start the home season.

“I expected to win but was worried about turning around so quickly after a late night at Cotter on Monday. The boys brought energy and the results show,” noted coach Anderson.

C o o l temps didn’t deter the Decorah girls golf team from hitting the links Tuesday as the Vikings traveled to Lulu Bellrichard Waukon for its opener. The Indians took the win 219 to 237.

Leading Decorah as the runner-up with a 53 was Lulu Bellrichard. Olivia Brynsaas fired a 57 while Shelby Hageman provided a 63. Drew Zwart and Kaelyn Kuhn toured the course and finished with 64s. Rounding out the varsity line-up for the Vikings was Riann Oberbroeckling with a 70.

Using a backhand to return the volley during Tuesday’s home match is No. 1 player Liam Chamberlain. (Photo

by Becky Walz)

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Singles: No. 1 Liam Chamberlain (Dec) defeated Ethan Schmitt (Ind) 6-0, 6-1; No. 2 Tristan Hunter (Dec) defeated Kyle Beatty (Ind) 6-0, 6-2; No. 3 Keaton Nalean-Carlson (Dec) defeated Mason Ronnebaum (Ind) 6-1, 6-0; No. 4 Elliot Berland (Dec) defeated Mikey Bailey (Ind) 6-1, 6-1; No. 5 Caleb Krieg (Dec) defeated Ramon Moore (Ind) 6-1, 6-2; No. 6 Aitor Cuevas (Dec) defeated Caleb Williamson (Ind) 6-2, 6-3 Doubles: No. 1 Chamberlain/ Hunter (Dec) defeated Schmitt/ Beatty (Ind) 6-0, 6-1; No. 2 Berland/ Nalean-Carlson (Dec) defeated Bailey/Ronnebaum (Ind) 6-1, 6-1; No. 3 Krieg/Cuevas (Dec) defeated Moore/Williamson (Ind) 6-1, 6-1

ions CongratCLulat AS

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Reserve your space in this commemorative edition by April 30

Singles: No. 1 O. Huinker (Dec) won 8-0 over Kendra Rechkemmer (Oel); No. 2 G. Huinker (Dec) won 8-0 over Harley Staton (Oel); No. 3 Jaidyn Duvel (Dec) won 8-4 over Macy Schulmeiester (Oel); No. 4 Addison Maki (Dec) won 8-1 over Emily Taylor (Oel); No. 5 Myla Leitz (Dec) won 8-3 over Mackenzie Palmer (Oel); No. 6 Klaara Short (Dec) won 9-7 over Sawyer Buhr (Oel) Doubles: No. 1 L. Holland/ Bjork (Dec) won 6-1 over K. Rechkemmer/Buhr (Oel); No. 2 Dylin Thompson/C. Holland (Dec) won 6-1 over Schulmeiester/Taylor (Oel); No. 3 Addison Maki/Alynne Brandel (Dec) won 6-1 over Emma Gearhart/Aubree Rechkemmer (Oel)

Vikings hit on early wins

Decorah girls golf take a swing at Indians

The 2025 Graduating Classes will be published in The Driftless next month

First dual match After Monday’s dual with Osage was postponed, the Vikes hit the courts at Oelwein Tuesday, emerging victorious with a 9-0 win.

Highlights include Olivia Huinker at No. 1 singles and at No. 2 singles Grace Huinker each refusing to give up a game to their opponents and winning 8-0 in their respective matches. At No. 6, Klaara Short battled through to win 9-7, each doubles combo winning handedly with matching 6-1 scores.

“The JV players all got a chance to play doubles, and a few played singles as well.

While the group went 1-7 for the night, it was a great experience for many new players and some of the lost matches were close,” said coach Amanada Huinker.

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2025

Spring Sports

preview

PUBLISHED THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025

BY THE DECORAH LEADER

SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ

Ready for a dynamic season; five letter winners back for Vikes

Experience should pay off for the Decorah boys’ tennis team this season.

With five athletes back with letters, including substate play and one on the big stage at state, the Vikings still have some rebuilding to do.

Looking to lead the team to a strong season is head coach Matt Anderson who enters his fourth season at the helm.

A great run Last year was fun for coach Anderson and the Vikings as they returned eight letter winners. Decorah put together an 11-4 dual record during the 2024 season.

It all lead up to the tournament season, as Decorah won the conference tournament and punched a ticket to the Class 1A state team tournament by defeating Aplington-Parkersburg 5-1.

During Decorah’s second straight appearance in the final eight of Class 1A, the Vikings fell 5-1 in Xavier in the opening round.

Individually, Decorah had three netters continue. Doubles pair Aidan Nalean-Carlson and Liam Chamberlain went 3-1 to earn a state berth. Senior Caden Branum went 4-0 to win the district crown and looked to defend his Class 1A title at state.

At state, Branum wrapped up his stellar high school career at the state individual tournament as the Class 1A runner-up. He opened the tournament with a 2-0 win (6-1, 6-2) over Mason Reicks of Kuemper Catholic and made his way to the final with a 2-0 (6-1, 6-0) victory over Tyler Grote of Sergeant Bluff-Luton. The Viking took a tough three-setter loss in the finals to Pella’s Jack Briggs (6-4, 1-6, 6-2).

Nalean-Carlson and Chamberlain lost in the opening round to the Pella duo of Joshua Roozeboom and Cameron Rose in a pair of 6-1 sets. They fought back in the back draw to earn a well fought win (6-4, 6-4) against Glenwood’s Kayden Anderson and Brody Taylor, before finally falling in a third set tiebreaker (4-6, 6-4, 1-0 (7)) to eventual fifth-place finishers Evan Anderson and Chase Miller of Wahlert.

Tough hitters Although Branum, a fourtime state qualifier (three as an individual), along with A. Nalean-Carlson, a one-time state qualifier in doubles graduated last May, Decorah does have some experience returning this season.

Leading the way are the five core returners with varsi-

Returning letter winners for Vikings are (l-r) Tristan Hunter, Keaton Nalean-Carlson, Liam Chamberlain, Caleb Krieg and Elliot Berland. (Photos courtesy of Tami Bohr) ty experience — seniors Liam Chamberlain and Caleb Krieg; junior Keaton Nalean-Carlson and sophomores Elliot Berland and Tristan Hunter.

Joining the letter winners on the courts will be seniors Bryan Ajzac, Aitor Cuevas, Gavin Groux, Ansel Kowitz, Andrew Kruger, Steven Munoz, Beau Newhouse and Domenik Smith; junior Patrick Gallagher; sophomores Jack Hammell, Evan Madsen, Noah Potvin, Tyler Shaw, Keagen Steines, Oskar Swanson and Colin Thompson; and freshmen Quade Bruening, Brody Darling, Peyton Kimball, Logan Nalean-Carlson and Nils Peterson.

“I have a mix of experience and good young newcomers. I also have maybe my most athletic team ever, which will be fun to work with. I believe the team will be fairly evenly

matched from positions 1-8 so there will be a lot of competition for varsity spots on the line this year,” said coach Anderson. “I think this team may surprise a lot of teams as we sort of rebuild after losing so much talent the last two years.”

Decorah boys tennis schedule April 11 vs. Osage, 4:30 p.m.

April 12 at Mason City, 9 a.m.

April 17 at AplingtonParkersburg, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 vs. Winona Senior, 4:30 p.m.

April 22 vs. Onalaska, 4 p.m.

April 24 at Waverly-Shell Rock, 12 p.m.

April 25 at Winona Senior (Minn.), 4:30 p.m.

April 29 at Oelwein, 4 p.m.

May 2 vs. Clear Lake, 4:30 p.m.

May 6 at Waverly-Shell Rock, 4:30 p.m.

May 8 vs. Columbus Catholic, 4 p.m.

Members of the Decorah boys’ tennis team for the 2025 season are (front row, l-r) Peyton Kimball, Brody Darling, Jack Hammell, Domenik Smith, Bryan Ajzac, Gavin Groux, Cohen Berland, Nils Peterson, Noah Potvin, Quade Bruening; (middle row) Coach Scott Hermann, Keaton Nalean-Carlson, Colin Thompson, Tyler Shaw, Keagan Steines, Steven Munoz, Eliott Berland, Tristan Hunter, Andrew Kruger, Logan Nalean-Carlson; (back row) Head Coach Matt Anderson, Coach Brett Wilker, Oskar Swanson, Patrick Gallagher, Liam Chamberlain, Ansel Kowitz, Beau Newhouse, Caleb Krieg, Aitor Cuevas and Evan Madsen.

Back on the courts with a letter in 2025 are (front row, l-r) Dylin Thompson, Addison Maki, Myla Leitz, Jaidyn Duvel; (back row) Camryn Holland, Olivia Huinker, Klaara Short, Kaitlyn Bjork and Leah Holland. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Cluster of talented athletes may pack a few surprises

Talk about veteran experience.

Third year head coach Amanda Huinker noted it could be a challenge setting a lineup for the Decorah girls tennis team with the multitude of talent on the squad this season. Helping guide the Vikes with Huinker this season are assistant coaches Reg Laursen, Phil Yee and Kristy Schilling.

Highlights from 2024 The 2024 Viking squad featured six returning letter winners which formed the nucleus of a team of nearly 35 athletes eager to bring home a victory.

Decorah worked hard on finding a cohesive group throughout the season and went 11-3 in dual action. The work paid off as the successful season culminated in the conference title with five singles champions and one pair becoming doubles champs.

In regional play, the Vikings started by defeating Wahlert Catholic 5-2 and Western Dubuque 5-2 in the first two rounds. It was a tight regional final match with Dike-New Hartford that ended Decorah’s team season 5-4.

That sent the squad into the individual regional tournament.

Camryn Holland and Kaitlyn

Bjork took on the individual portion of the tournament, coming up short of a state bid. In the doubles competition, Jaidyn Duvel and Leah Holland were seeded fourth, winning their first two rounds before falling to Kaitlyn and Kendall Olson of Osage to earn third. Second seeded Evon Leitz and Olivia Huinker had a hard first match but went on to finish runner-up to the Osage Olson duo and punch a ticket to state.

Competing among the best at state, Leitz and Huinker dropped their first match to Bryn Higginbotham and Claire Smock 2-0 (6-2, 6-3) and finished their season in the consolation bracket against Ballard’s Jocie Hobbs and Ellie Volkmann 2-1 (1-6, 6-4, 0-1 (10-7)).

Back on the attack Much like last year, coach Huinker will have a mighty group of returning letter winners to look to this year.

They will be led by seniors Jaidyn Duvel, Camryn Holland, Leah Holland and Klaara Short and juniors Kaitlyn Bjork and Olivia Huinker with freshman Grace Huinker and Myla Leitz

Surprises

Continued on page B-4

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW 2025

B-2 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Ready for spring; Viking boys track team has high expectations

Decorah boys soccer focus on return trip to state Making it to state last season after several close misses isn’t enough for the Decorah boys soccer team – the Vikes want the title.

The potential remains with returning talent and a mix of new members, anything is possible this spring.

Anxious to see his team grow is head coach Zachary Shearer.

Photos were not available at press time and will be published in an upcoming edition of the Decorah Leader.

Members of the Decorah boys’ track and field team this season are (front row, l-r) Noah Vilardo, Kellen O’Gara, Lucas Wymer, Cash Riehle, Gavin Knutson, Landon Quandahl, Mason Avila, Matthew Burkholder; (second row) D’mitry Lesser, Derek Hrdlicka, Ashton Saltou, Garrett See, Grant Zilka, Weston Cote, Dakota VanGundy, Drake Phillips, Ray Hayek; (third row) Wyatt Birdsell, Esteban Fernandez, Zander McConnell, Owen Rix, Dylan Brincks, Kaden Tarwater, Will Tallier, Davis Walter, Bill Fullhart, Kyle Pattison; (fourth row) Clarence Nimrod, Mitchell Stemper, Karter Orris, Owen Larson, Thomas Davis, Parker Low, Griffin Brauer, Gavin Wilkins, Isaac Bentley; (fifth row) Brayden Miculinich, Kade O’Hara, Archer Sims, Bennett Coppola, Thatcher Brown, Nathan Friend, Max Grimstad, Ezra Harman-Wood, Tommy Hammel, Camden Kerner; (sixth row) Davis Coppola, Cooper Ewing, Zach Driscoll, Jace Buddenberg, Will Hahn, Peyton Webb, Kyan Oftedahl, Carter Riley, Trevor Kuennen; (seventh row) Nathan Rhodes, Luke Franzen, Carson Bohner, Anthony Putnam-Heins, Henry Brynsaas, Josh Adam, Grant Remington, Landyn Hook, Ryan Northup, Mason Vote; (back row) Coach Bill Post, Coach Loran Storts, Coach Brian Waskow, Coach Jeff Wettach, Coach Steve Nesteby, Jayven Neubauer. Not pictured is Chester Kvamme. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

True spring can’t come soon enough for the Decorah boys track team.

With a good group of senior leaders ready to take over and all of their distance runners prepared, the Vikings have a large collection of sophomores ready to add to Decorah’s storied history.

Putting together the key pieces is first year head coach Brian Waskow who takes over the reins from Joel Rollinger.

Assisting Waskow will be Steve Nesteby, Bill Post, Loran Storts, Jeff Wettach and Matt Kuempal.

A year in review With 25 returning letter winners, experience was key to dominating the ovals last season with a strong schedule and a challenging spring weather-wise.

The Viking boys closed out the season by ringing the vic-

tory bell as the Northeast Iowa Conference champs, winning the title by 57 points and 11 of the 19 events.

At the state qualifying meet, Decorah won the title with 179 points over Algona in second with 127 and qualified athletes for 16 events for state.

On the Blue Oval of state, Decorah came in 18th with 16 points with senior Kaiden Quandahl highlighting the weekend with a runner-up finish in the long jump with a personal best leap of 22 feet, 2 inches.

Kelly Gates took fourth overall in the 100-meter dash in 11.15 seconds and competed in the 200-meter dash, finishing 10th in the prelims. Dakota Johnson scored a pair of medals for the Vikings, taking seventh in the 110-meter hurdles in 15.24 seconds and eighth in the 400-meter hurdles in 54.94 seconds.

Other results at state included Peyton Webb, ninth in the high

jump; William Hahn 17th in the shot put; Thomas Hammel, 22nd in the 800-meter run; Bill Fullhart, 24th in the 800-meter run; Grant Zilka, 22nd in the 1600-meter run; Davis Coppola, 23rd in the 3200-meter run; the sprint medley (Josh Adam, Gavin Groux, Gates, Brayden Hartl) was 15th; 4x200 relay (Adam, Hartl, Webb, Quandahl), 17th; 4x800 relay (Zilka, Hammel, Daniel See, Mitchell Stemper), 21st. Three other relays including the 4x100 (Johnson, Gates, Groux, Quandahl), shuttle hurdle (Adam, Tommy Sexton, Groux, Johnson) and 4x400 (Hartl, Stemper, Mason Avila, Trevor Kuennen) also competed and either failed to finish or were disqualified.

Decorah graduated 10 seniors including Cade Averhoff, Kelley Gates, Brayden Hartl, Dakota Johnson, Montana Jump-Gerleman, Kaiden Quandahl, Gunnar Sims, Fisher

Returning letter winners on the Viking boys’ track and field team include (front row, l-r) Parker Low, D’mitry Lesser, Tommy Hammel, Grant Zilka, Trevor Kuennen, Landon Quandahl, Mason Avila, Ashton Saltou, Dakota VanGundy, Kyle Pattison, Garrett See; (back row) Bill Fullhart, Jace Buddenberg, Karter Orris, Will Hahn, Davis Coppola, Grant Remington, Josh Adam, Landyn Hook, Peyton Webb, Luke Franzen, Max Grimstad and Mitchell Stemper.

(Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

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Tweten, Garrett Waskow and Kaiden Youngblood.

Their turn “We lost a couple of high-end sprinters last season, but our focus is on getting the returning athletes to believe in their own talent and step up to fill that void,” said the new head coach.

“I fully expect them to rise to the challenge and compete at a high level this season.”

Although some big names were lost, the 2025 squad will be full of star power. The Vikes return 22 letter winners, especially those with big meet experience such as Adam, Coppola, Hahn, Hammel, Zilka, Avila, Kuennen, See, Stemper, Webb and Fullhart. Other letter winners set to lead the way include seniors Landyn Hook and D’mitry Lesser; juniors Carson Bohner, Jace Buddenberg, Luke Franzen, Max Grimstad, Kyle Pattison, Landon Quandahl and Ashton Saltou; and sophomores Parker Low, Karter Orris and Dakota VanGundy.

Among that list is the entire list of distance runners from last season and coach Waskow is excited to see what they can do, and he knows they are ready to compete.

“We also return several of our top performers in field events, and I expect them to have a great year as well. On the sprinting side, we have several sprinters with state meet and Drake Relays experience, and I am looking forward to seeing their growth and progress this season,” he added.

Repeat champs?

When it comes to the conference race, coach Waskow believes every team will have a chance to compete but expects

his Vikings to be highly driven with his focus on making sure all competitors are ready to compete when the time comes.

“We have a strong sophomore class with athletes in position to compete for varsity spots, and it will be exciting to watch their grown and development throughout the season,” said coach Waskow. “Our freshman class also brings in some great athletes, and I expect several of them to push for varsity spots as well. Even for those who might not make varsity right away, I am excited to see their progress.”

The coach said his athletes are talented and have bright futures and he expects they will achieve success in their careers.

“The athletes have really bought into the training and we have had a great start to the season with a strong number of participants. I expect them to compete every day, both in practice and at meets,” coach Waskow noted. “So far I really like what I see and anticipate a fun, exciting season for my first year as head coach.”

Decorah boys track schedule April 11 at Waverly-Shell Rock, 4:30 p.m.

April 14 hosts Invite, 5 p.m.

April 17 at West Delaware, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 hosts Invite, 5 p.m.

April 24-26 at Drake Relays, TBD April 24 at Waukon, 4:30 p.m.

April 28 at Mason City, 5 p.m.

May 5 at MFL MarMac/South Winn (split squad), 4:30 p.m.

May 8 at NEIC Invite (Waukon), 4:30 p.m.

May 15 at Districts (TBD), 4 p.m.

May 22-24 at State (Des Moines), TBD

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A great run The Vikes leaned on 12 returning letter winners in 2024 and gelled throughout the season, posting a 15-4 record.

With a spot at the state tournament on the line, Decorah came out on a mission in the substate semifinal against Wahlert Catholic, winning 3-0 at home. That put them in a match with Central DeWitt in the substate final. The two teams left the scoreboard blank in the first half before Decorah’s Jimmy Valdez scored twice in the second.

Jeramiah Rediske added a third goal for the 3-0 victory, sending the Vikings on to the Class 2A quarterfinals for just the fourth time in program history.

At state, Decorah had the hustle and the 1-0 lead into the second half before Perry scored with 4:22 remaining. In overtime, possession flipped back and forth between the two squads. A pair of scoreless overtime periods sending the game into a shootout. It was there that the Vikings fell to Perry 4-3 as the Viking trio of Rediske, Creed Monroe and Lincoln Bishop connected.

Hungry for more The Vikes lost 11 players to graduation last year — Caleb Meyer, Brady Benzing, Trey McCain, Landon Kuennen, Parker Heiselman, Creed Monroe, Nathan Swarbrick, Peter Essa, Jimmy Valdez, Lincoln Bishop and Jeramiah Rediske.

However, Decorah has reloaded with some talent back this year. Leading the way will be a hand full of athletes with varsity action under their cleats including Will Larson, Riley Berns, Noah Milburn, Liam Huang, Reid Berns, Ian Giddings, Garrison Grinna, Jameson LaBelle and Gavin Luzum.

Decorah boys soccer schedule April 10 vs. Dubuque Senior, 6:30 p.m.

April 12 vs. Dubuque Hempstead, 11:30 a.m.

April 14 vs. Independence, 5 p.m.

April 15 at Postville, 5 p.m.

April 17 at Mason City, 5 p.m.

April 22 vs. New Hampton, 5 p.m.

April 28 vs. Hudson, 5 p.m.

May 3 at North Fayette Valley, 12 p.m.

May 4 at Dubuque Wahlert, 4:15 p.m.

May 10 at Waverly-Shell Rock tnmt., 9 a.m.

May 15 at Denver, 7 p.m.

Decorah girls soccer schedule April 11 vs. North Fayette Valley, 5 p.m.

April 12 at Dubuque Senior, 10 a.m.

April 14 vs. Independence, 6:30 p.m.

April 17 vs. Mason City, 5 p.m.

April 22 at Clayton Ridge, 5 p.m.

April 25 vs. Clear Lake, 5 p.m.

April 29 at Waverly-Shell Rock, 6:45 p.m.

May 3 at North Fayette Valley, 10 a.m.

May 6 vs. New Hampton, 5 p.m.

May 8 at Union, 5 p.m.

May 10 at Waverly-SR tnmt., 9 a.m.

May 12 vs. Postville, 5 p.m.

May 15 at Denver, 5 p.m.

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

B-3

Team depth, experience key ingredients for Viking girls success this season

Donning the uniform and lacing up the spikes on the Decorah girls’ track and field team in 2025 will be (front row, l-r) Ava Steine, Emily Myers, Lillian Olson, McKenzie Riley, Natalie Goodner, Grace Blikre, Lily Sandhorst; (second row) Olivia Paulsen, Madysen Lippe, Deborah Hougen, Lauren Holthaus, Ava Holthaus, Natalie Stevens, Jerikah Dodd, Annika Schmelzer, Lauren Luzum, Renae Wilson, Kelby Kerndt; (third row) Claire Storhoff, Willow Blair, Audrey Essa, Lillian Dahlen, Rachel Spilde-Maki, Liz Bucksa, Jenna Leuenberger, Brinlee Courtney, Taya Snitker, Kennady Riehle, Caylee Malanaphy; (fourth row) Jayden Lundtvedt, Simone Downing, Camryn Quandahl, Kate Pattison, Grace Tangen, Eva Hurley, Oliva Volkmann, Addisyn Ivy, Cassie Stammeyer, Laylah Schissel, Harlie Hartong-Larson, Riley Christopher; (fifth row) Stella Pole, Alandra Mercado-Arneson, Kelsey Becker, Olivia Rissman, Brylee Hanson, Margaret Hahn, Eden Northup, June Breitenbach-Dirks, Camryn Elster, Eden Scheidel, Lyla Lovstuen; (back row) Raelyn Newhouse, Sophia McGee, Isabelle Alley, Coach Mike Tangen, Coach Brad Johansen, Coach Cristy Nimrod, Ari Albert and Kaya Johnson. Not pictured are Poppy Bellrichard, Addison Quandahl, Kamryn Steines and Ella Stille. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr) The stage is set for the Decorah girls track and field team to have another big season.

With over 60 athletes ready to take the oval including 13 past state participants, the Vikings are gunning for their 20th straight conference title.

Putting the team together are co-head coaches Cristy Nimrod and Brad Johansen, along with assistants Mike Tangen and Jeff Wettach.

A solid run through 2024 The Vikings of 2024 were back in force with 14 letter winners and seven who competed at state.

For the 19th year in a row, the Vikings were on top of the Northeast Iowa Conference, winning by nearly 100 points over Crestwood. Decorah placed first in all seven relays and 11 of the 19 total events.

It was another title a week later at the state qualifying meet in Clear Lake, with Decorah

picking up a 23-point margin of victory. In total, the girls qualified for state in 14 events.

On the blue oval the Vikings’ performances weren’t quite what they were hoping for, earning just 10 points to finish 27th in Class 3A. Renae Wilson, also a Drake Relays qualifier, had the fifth fastest time in the 100-meter hurdle prelims and finished the final race in 15.77 seconds, good for fifth overall. Lauren Luzum also garnered fifth place in the shot put, sending the weight 38 feet, 0.75 inches.

A seventh place finish by the 4x800 relay team of Amelia Roe, Lillian Olson, Lauren Holthaus and Lily Sandhorst gave the Vikes their last two points of the state meet. The quartet combined for a time of 9:52.20.

Also at state were the 4x200 relay team of Stella Pole, Ava Holthaus, Hayley Stowe and Audrey Essa (11th, 1:44.67); McKenzie Riley in the 400-me-

ter dash (13th, 59.89); the shuttle hurdle relay of Sydney Kipp, Kelby Kerndt, Kennady Riehle and Wilson (13th, 1:09.72); Essa in the 200-meter dash (15th, 25.91); the 4x100 relay of Kerndt, Essa, A. Holthaus and Stowe (15th, 50.14); Pole in the 100-meter dash (16th, 12.82); Kipp in the 100-meter hurdles (17th, 16.52); sprint medley relay of Kerndt, A. Holthaus, Essa and Riley (18th, 1:52.84); the 4x400 relay of Riley, Olson, Pole and L. Holthaus (18th, 4:10.46); and distance medley relay of Olson, Ella Stille, Claire Storhoff and Sandhorst (24th, 4:32.53).

Big squad Despite losing five seniors, two of whom raced at state last year, Decorah is stacked with lots of talent back. Leading the way are the state participants from last year.

Returning letter winners include Grace Blikre, Lillian

Olson, McKenzie Riley, Lily Sandhorst, Ella Stille, Ariana Albert, Jerikah Dodd, Ava Holthaus, Lauren Holthaus,

Kelby Kerndt, Lauren Luzum, Stella Pole, Annika Schmelzer, Natalie Stevens, Renae Wilson, Liz Bucksa, Brinlee Courtney, Audrey Essa, Brylee Hanson, Kennady Riehle, Claire Storhoff and Olivia Volkmann.

In total, there are 60 tracksters looking to make a mark, with nine seniors, 16 juniors, 15 sophomores and 20 freshman.

“We have a very large team that allows for great competition within our team for varsity positions, which will allow us to put together a competitive line up each meet,” noted coach Johansen. “As a collective group the ability to understand and execute the plan each day with both discipline and dedication will be key. Purposeful, intentional daily practice at a high level will lead to significant improvements this season.”

On the move It will be another tough run through the conference, with all six teams vying for the top spot in the final NEIC season.

“We believe we will have a strong team to compete for the conference title; however, every team will have strong individual performers,” said coach

Johansen. “Time will tell how the depth of each team presents itself.”

When it comes down to it, the co-head coaches are ready for the outdoor season and excited to see how far this team can go.

“Health is always the key to success. Secondly, the weather and opportunities to compete in meets are crucial for our success. If both of those align, we will have an excellent team on the track and in the field by the end of the season,” concluded coach Johansen.

Decorah girls track schedule April 10 hosts Invite, 5 p.m.

April 15 at Hudson/Waukon, 4:30 p.m.

April 22 at Crestwood, 4:30 p.m.

April 22 at Charles City, 5 p.m.

April 24-26 at Drake Relays, TBD April 29 at Waukon, 4:30 p.m.

May 5 at South Winn, 4:30 p.m.

May 8 at NEIC Invite (Waukon), 4:30 p.m.

May 15 at Regionals (TBD), 4 p.m.

May 22-24 at State (Des Moines), TBD

Back on the oval with experience and a letter for the Viking girls are (front row, l-r)Ava Steine, Lillian Olson, McKenzie Riley, Grace Blikre, Lily Sandhorst, Kelby Kerndt; (second row) Claire Storhoff, Lauren Holthaus, Ava Holthaus, Natalie Stevens, Jerikah Dodd, Annika Schmelzer, Lauren Luzum, Renae Wilson; (back row) Stella Pole, Audrey Essa, Liz Bucksa, Olivia Volkmann, Brinlee Courtney, Kennady Riehle, Brylee Hanson and Ari Albert. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

Decorah girls soccer scores big participation this season

Continuing to pick up the pieces five years post-COVID, the numbers have grown for the Decorah girls soccer program as the Vikes look continue the rebuilding process.

Motivating the team for his seventh season is head coach Loren Hendrickson.

A look back In 2024, the Vikings returned six letter winners, including two seniors.

Decorah struggled to put together a win streak, picking up just three victories during the regular season.

In the first round of Class 2A regional action, the Vikes battled Western Dubuque with Decorah falling 4-0. The Vikes ended the season 3-11 and graduated three seniors — Gabrielle Dixon, Elayna Hook and Lydia Monreal-Rice.

Back on the attack The success of this season will start with the letter winners.

It begins with the seniors — Sara Johanningmeier, Addison Lukes-Smith and Amelia Wadsworth. The experience continues with juniors Elsa Christman, Clara Hjelle, Nora Lesmeister, Kyra O’Hara and Ana Simon, along with the sophomore duo of Stella Grinna and Vivian Searcy.

“We have a decent veteran core through the middle of the field,” noted coach Hendrickson. “We need to rebuild our back line after the loss of several players from last season.”

Johanningmeier, Lesmeister and Simon led the offensive attack last season with three goals apiece. Lesmeister had 14 shots on goal – the most of anyone on the Viking squad, while Johanningmeier had eight. During her first season on the pitch, Search provided seven shots on the goal.

Set to control the goal is Hjelle once again who made 159 saves last year.

Rounding out the varsity squad are senior Hannah Arendt; juniors Lily Swenson, Allisson Ortiz; sophomores Marley Harmening, Regine Hougen; and freshmen Liv Anderson, Leah Garcia-Prats and Taylor Sloan-Dahl.

Taking the pitch for the 2025 edition of the Decorah girls’ soccer team are (front row, l-r) Hayley Baker, Kora Kelly, Allisson Ortiz, Marley Harmening, Nora Lesmeister, Hannah Arendt, Elsa Christman, Kathy Sitan Muj, Leah Garcia-Prats, Cassie Wilkins, Jillian Volz, Sara Johanningmeier, Haleigh Steege; (second row) Karmyn Bakken, Kennady Carlson, Guisela Pastor Tala, Stella Grinna, Erika Valdez Gonzalez, Hilary Junech Solovi, Jessalyn Lozano, Lily Swenson, Kayley Baker, Taylor Sloan-Dahl; (third row) Coach Kyrie Jorgenson, Kera Walter, Adeline Bollinger, Harlie Zahasky, Klara Kelly, Kaylie Wemark, Claudia Dixon, Rachel Weis, Molly Kuehner, Claire Ko, Evelyn Opheim, Liv Anderson, Regine Hougen, Coach Kenna McGee; (back row) Coach Teo Jube, Addison Lukes-Smith, Amelia Wadsworth, Sophia Hill, Brinley Quandahl, Margaret Gavle, Kyra O’Hara, Clara Hjelle, Vivian Searcy, Charlotte LaBelle, Kinley Leliefeld, Ana Simon, Sophia Grinna, Coach Loren Hendrickson. Not pictured is Macy Frank. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

Returning letter winners for the Viking girls’ soccer program are (front row, l-r) Nora Lesmeister, Sara Johanningmeier, Elsa Christman, Stella Grinna; (back row) Amelia Wadsworth, Kyra O’Hara, Addison Lukes-Smith, Clara Hjelle, Vivian Searcy and Ana Simon. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

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Staying sharp In order to put together a winning season, coach Hendrickson knows it will take work both on and off the field.

“This will be another rebuilding season. We need to rebuild the defense and continue to improve our attacking capabilities.

One good thing that happened this year is a very large turnout of new players to the squad after a few lean years of the COVID aftermath,” he concluded.

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SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW 2025

B-4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Back with power; Vikes return four starters They might have been small in terms of overall numbers in the past, but the Decorah boys’ golf team is making up for in 2025.

The Vikings feature six returning letter winners, including three all-conference players who played the links last season.

Putting the team together for his second season is Casey Bouska.

Strong team Last year’s squad featured a long line-up of experience, abil-

ity and youth on the links with over 20 athletes competing for a varsity spot.

The group worked hard throughout the season to cut strokes off their score, going 11-27. The Vikes shined at the Northeast Iowa Conference come May carding a combined 337 to finish second to Waverly-Shell Rock (315). In addition to the runner-up finish, Decorah had four all-conference golfers as Ben Bockman fired an 81 to finish seventh. Caden Hubka was on his heels in eighth with an 82 while Jackson Pipho fin-

Swinging into the new season with a letter for the Vikes are (lr) Caden Hubka, Louie Bucksa, Carter Dlhy, Jackson Pipho, Andrew Olson. Not pictured is Bradan Darling.

ished touring the course with an 86 in 13th. Carter Dlhy rounded out the Viking scorecard with his 15th place finish with an 88.

The season ended a week later at the Class 3A sectional meet, where the Vikes finished fifth with a 343.

Graduating following the season was four-time all-conference golfer Ben Bockman and Andrew Rhodes.

Talent back Play will start up front with Pipho who posted the second-best nine-hole average behind Bockman last season at 40.5 strokes. Dlhy comes in for his senior season with a 40.75 average, while Hubka averaged 42.75 as a freshman last year.

Louie Bucksa (44.0), Bradan Darling (44.25) and Andrew Olson (47.50) also return to the area courses with a letter.

They are joined by seniors Kaden Alstad, Hunter Quandahl and Shane Treangen; juniors Alex Maki, Cain Monreal-Rice, Jackson Naber, Will Robinson and Tommy Sexton; sophomores Garrett Henry, Andrew Marcum, Keaton Riehle, Adrian

Members of the Decorah boys’ golf team this season are (front row, l-r) Andrew Marcum, Jacob Stevens, Andrew Olson, Jack Turner, Meison Tollefson, Shane Treangen, Anders Wicklund; (middle row) Kaden Alstad, Jackson Pipho, Caden Hubka, Bryson Wemark, Keaton Riehle, Alex Maki, Evan Roe, Hunter Quandahl, Kash Turner; (back row) Louie Bucksa, Carter Dlhy, Tommy Sexton, Adrian Smith, Garrett Henry, Cain Monreal-Rice, Will Robinson and Jackson Naber. Not pictured is Bradan Darling. (Photos by Becky Walz) Smith, Kash Turner and Bryson Wemark; and freshmen Evan Roe, Jacob Stevens, Meison Tollefson, Jack Turner and Anders Wicklund.

“This is a very competitive group and we should hopefully have about nine guys who can step into the lineup and score,” said the second-year head coach. “Our senior leadership is solid and these guys played a lot of golf in the summer. Now it is

time to put it together so we can compete at a higher level.”

play good, solid, consistent golf in order for that to happen,” noted coach Bouska. “I think the guys are ready to compete and hopefully take it up a notch from last season. We have a competitive schedule with some top-notch teams and tournaments, so I am excited to see what we have in store for the season.”

Putting in the work It will be another year of tough competition in the Northeast Iowa Conference with coach Bouska seeing Charles City and New Hampton as threats to win the title.

“We should be right there competing for a chance at a championship. We just have to

Ready to swing; Viking gals looking to lower strokes at state for the first time since 2012 and finished the year in a tie for sixth place in the Class 3A girls state golf meet, ending the season with a two-day tally of 155.

Members of the 2025 Decorah girls’ golf team are (front row, l-r) Kahri Oberbroeckling, Clair Smedsrud, Shelby Hageman, Kaelyn Kuhn, Mara Baumann, Anna Knaack, Ella Carlson; (back row) Sophia Fahey, Drew Zwart, Lulu Bellrichard, Olivia Brynsaas, Ava Carolan, Riann Oberbroeckling, Ella Christopher and Nora Klegseth. (Photo by Becky Walz) Decorah’s girls’ golf coach Katie Woodhouse is hoping experience will be the key to a successful season on the links during the 2025 season.

With eight returning letter winners and no one graduating from last year’s squad, the Vikes have the potential to do well.

Last year Interest was growing in Dec-

orah last season with 14 swinging the clubs for first-year coach Woodhouse. Add to the fact that there were no seniors, there was only experience to be gained on the course.

Eight of those 14 were returning letter winners for the new coach were joined by Columbian exchange student Maria Riveros who made a mark on the program last season.

The Vikings worked on low-

ering their strokes all season long. At the Northeast Iowa Conference meet, Decorah shot a 414 to finish fifth. The Vikes were led by Riveros as the runner-up medalist with an 81.

At the regional meet, the Vikings finished the day with a 409 in eighth place. Riveros once again fired a solid game, to take third and qualify for state as an individual.

Decorah was represented

Veteran team The Vikes will be a veteran team for sure as they didn’t graduate anyone last year.

At the top of the roster will be the eight returning letter winners including seniors Sophia Fahey and Shelby Hageman; juniors Riann Oberbroeckling and Olivia Brynsaas; and sophomores Clair Smedsrud, Kahri Oberbroeckling, Kaelyn Kuhn and Lulu Bellrichard.

“We have some girls who have put in a lot of time in the off-season and who are eager to improve their skills and set some personal best this season. I’m excited to see them set some individual goals and am hopeful for their success,” said the second-year coach.

They will be joined by senior Ella Carlson; juniors Ava Carolan and Drew Zwart; sophomores Mara Baumann, Nora Klegseth; and freshmen Ella

competitive once again but noted that with Waverly-Shell Rock out of the league now, there should be some top spots in the conference up for grabs.

“I am hopeful that one of my girls can grab at least one of them,” she said. “As for the team race, I would be happy if we can finish better than at least one other team.”

Christopher and Anna Knaack.

How it will shake out “Obviously losing Maria Riveros is going to impact us,” pointed out coach Woodhouse.

“We may not have a record this season that reflects that improvement has been made.”

As for the NEIC the coach expects New Hampton to be

Returning letter winners to the links for the Decorah girls’ golf team are (front row, l-r) Clair Smedsrud, Kahri Oberbroeckling, Shelby Hageman, Kaelyn Kuhn; (back row) Sophia Fahey, Lulu Bellrichard, Olivia Brynsaas and Riann Oberbroeckling. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Surprises Continued from B-1

looking for a varsity spot in the lineup, according to coach Huinker.

And of course, there is also the potential for someone else to find a place in the line-up.

Other members of the team are senior Gwenyth Thompson; juniors – Alynne Brandel, Addison Maki and Dylin Thompson; sophomores Teagen Menke, Nina Sessions and Isis Timm; and freshmen Ava Burreson, Esme Cuevas, Natalie Holthaus and Kimberly Mejia Junech.

Overall, coach Huinker has lots of reasons to be excited about the team.

“We have a talented group of girls returning with solid skills,

Swinging the rackets for the Decorah girls’ tennis team this season will be (front row, l-r) Myla Leitz, Dylin Thompson, Addison Maki, Kimberly Mejia Junech, Ava Burreson, Natalie Holthaus; (middle row); Jaidyn Duvel, Isis Timm, Klaara Short, Olivia Huinker, Grace Huinker, Kaitlyn Bjork, Gwen Thompson; (back row) Head Coach Amanda Huinker, Assistant Coach Phil Yee, Nina Sessions, Teagan Menke, Leah Holland, Alynne Brandal, Camryn Holland, Esme Cuevas and Assistant Coach Reg Laursen. Not pictured is Assistant Coach Kristy Schilling. (Photo by Becky Walz)

knowledge of the game and the desire to make this season a great one,” she noted. “We have strong match play experience in both singles and doubles and a multitude of team depth.”

As for teams to beat in the area, coach Huinker pointed to Aplington-Parkersburg and Columbus Catholic among the top foes. While Mason City, Dubuque Senior and Dubuque Hempstead won’t be in Class 1A during postseason action, the third-year head coach is also looking toward seeing how her Vikings will match up with them on the court for the first time.

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SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW 2025

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

B-5

Spots open; Warrior girls look to fill hurdle and field events Development into new roles may be a factor for the South Winn girls track team this season.

With veteran talent and experience in sprint and distance events, the Warriors will be looking to fill out the entire line-up in order to compete for a conference title.

Leading the way will be head coach Kevin Kearney, who has been with the program for 32 years. He will be assisted by Darcy Einck, Ed Wadsworth, Justin Einck and Todd Conway.

Solid in 2024 Eleven returning letter winners highlighted last year’s squad which had lost some key contributors; however, those with experience stepped up to the challenge and led the Warriors to the Upper Iowa Conference title with nine champions crowned.

A week later South Winn qualified four individuals and three relays to the state meet, finishing fourth as a team.

Competing on the Blue Oval,

the Warriors didn’t score any points but gained the experience of the big meet as nine of the 10 athletes competing were set to return in 2025.

Josie Tieskoetter closed out her stellar running career at South Winn as she raced to 10th place in the 800-meter in 2:24.94. She also teamed up with Tessa Phillips, Ava Franzen and Annie Hageman for a 14th place finish (10:17.54) in the 4x800 relay.

Abby Wagner competed in a pair of field events, finishing 14th in the long jump and 16th in the high jump, while Franzen took home 17th in the 1500-meter run. Katie Shimek, Maddy Jansen, Allison Hageman and Cloey Zweibohmer combined their efforts in the 4x200 relay to finish 22nd, while the distance medley relay took home 23rd. Members of that relay were Shimek, Allison Hageman, Addy Conway and Franzen.

Those with experience Leadership will start with

Lacing up the shoes for the 2025 season for the South Winn girls’ track and field team are (l-r) McKenna Looby, Annie Hageman, Ava Franzen, Lauren Ondrashek, Addy Conway, Emmy Gehling, Alyssa Holthaus; (middle row) Lia Vsetecka, Hayden Steffens, Vanessa Bullerman, Allison Hageman, Izzy Kuboushek, Britney Hageman, Jena Peters, Jayden Timp, Emily Hovden, Karissa Wenthold; (back row) Gracie Walz, Jenna Schissel, Alexis Johanningmeier, Natalie Klimesh, Cloey Zweibohmer, Tessa Phillips, Maddy Jansen, Kelsey Timp and Charlotte Moonen. Not pictured is Katie Shimek. (Photo by Becky Walz) the returning letter winners with state experience. At the top of the list are Franzen, Allison Hageman, Shimek, Zwei-

Returning letter winners on the Lady Warrior track and field team are (front row l-r) Annie Hageman, Ava Franzen, Lauren Ondrashek, Addy Conway, Alyssa Holthaus, Karissa Wenthold; (back row) Allison Hageman, Izzy Kuboushek, Cloey Zweibohmer, Tessa Phillips and Maddy Jansen. Not pictured is Katie Shimek. (Photo by Becky Walz)

bohmer, Conway, Phillips, Annie Hageman and Jansen who competed at state last season, along with Izzy Kuboushek and Lauren Ondrashek who were members of the 2024 state-qualifying cross country team. Joining them is experienced high-jumper Alyssa Holthaus.

“We return a large contingent of experience and competitive runners across many areas and should have good depth at sprints, mid-distance and distance,” said coach Kearney.

“As a result we should be competitive across the board in individual and relay events. We will have some solid contributors in hurdles and field events – but we lack depth in those areas, at least early in the season. Hopefully we will have kids step up and fill those roles as the season progresses.”

Rounding out the returnees

are seniors Britney Hageman, Kelsey Timp, Emily Hovden; junior Charlotte Moonen; and sophomores Jayden Timp and McKenna Looby.

Nine freshmen are also stepping into the grind of high school competition including — Jena Peters, Hayden Steffens, Vanessa Bullerman, Emmy Gehling, Alexis Johanningmeier, Lia Vsetecka, Jenna Schissel, Gracie Walz and Natalie Klimesh.

“It is too early to really know how they will compete at the high school level,” noted coach Kearney. “However they have good attitudes, are working hard and have some ability. So I expect to see them begin to contribute over the course of the season and add to our depth and quality.”

In the UIC As last year’s UIC champions

and so many key contributors returning, the Warriors look to be an early favorite; however, coach Kearney emphasized Kee, Central Elkader and North Fayette Valley always field quality teams with good depth and expects them to be in the mix for the title this season.

“We are a bit thin at field events and hurdles so we will need to develop there. We will also need upperclassmen to step into more prominent leadership roles,” said coach Kearney about his concerns for the team this season. “Overall, we should have an opportunity to have a fun season. We have a good mix of depth, talent, experience and leadership. As always, we will need to stay healthy and develop over the season. But if we can do that, we should be able to compete pretty well across the board.”

South Winn boys looking for right mix of experience, youth and talent not just in track and field but as student athletes and as people according to the long-time coach.

Looking ahead While coach S. Conway is pleased with the rise in participants, he noted there is still a lack of depth in a handful of events which will be a challenge when the Warriors run upon the championship part of the season.

The Warriors will have to do some mixing and matching in order to find the right combination to fill out the team to be the

best in the UIC. “MFL MarMac is the returning conference champs and return a solid team, and North Fayette Valley is always a contender. From early meet results, Central Elkader has a nice group of freshmen to complement what they bring back from last year and are going to be competing at the top of the conference as well,” said coach S. Conway.

“The season will come down to whether or not we can get out of our own way. This is a group of guys that want to be successful.”

Members of the 2025 edition of the South Winn boys’ track and field team are (front row, l-r) Levi Feickert, Brad Dahl, Hugh Conway, Andy Achahua, Clayton Kuboushek, Yahir Macario, Lukas Weiss, Cody Bodensteiner, Jordan Pahl; (middle row) Jordan Einck, Adam Schmitt, Irving Flores, Brendon Riehle, Brennan Franzen, Mason Cox, Tristen Bodensteiner, Cameron Einck, Camden Bullerman, Landen Schnuelle; (back row) Gavin Feickert, Landon Humpal, Tyler Fels, Kaden Barton-Franzen, Shayde Wermers, Ethan Oyloe, Caden Tieskoetter, Landon Livingood, Eric Greve and Kyle Kuboushek. (Photo by Becky Walz) Finding a blend of experience and enthusiasm will be what propels the South Winn boys’ track and field team this spring.

The Warriors return nine letter winners and have a large host of newcomers and returnees from injuries to the program looking to find a place on the oval.

Putting together the squad is head coach Scott Conway, who has guided the Warriors for 23 years. He will be assisted by Darcy Einck, Ed Wadsworth, Todd Conway and Justin Einck.

Headed to state Much like this year, the Warriors of 2024 featured a nucleus of talented seniors mixed with strong underclassmen hoping to forge their own path.

The season progressed at a strong pace leading up to the Upper Iowa Conference meet.

For the second year in a row the Warriors finished third, finishing

behind MFL MarMac and edged

by North Fayette Valley by one point. It was a pair of field event wins for South Winn as Kaden Barton-Franzen flew over the high jump bar at 5 feet, 10 inches and Parker Timp sent the shot put 46 feet, 4.75 inches for gold.

Six events came up with runner-up finishes.

A week later at the state-qualifying meet in St. Ansgar, South Winn finished in sixth place with 64.5 points and sent three individuals and one relay to state.

On the big oval, the Warriors were kept off the scoreboard despite their best efforts. Barton-Franzen had the best finish of the weekend in the high jump in 10th place. In the shot put, Timp heaved the weight to 45 feet, 3.5 inches in his first state appearance in the event to finish 17th. Lukas Weiss crossed the finish line in 16.46 seconds in the 110-hurdle prelims to finish

May your hard work pay off with a phenomenal season!

the season in 20th. Weiss, Timp, Barton-Franzen and Brady Ohrt teamed up in the shuttle hurdle relay, finishing 14th in the prelims with a time of 1:04.50.

Following the conclusion of the season, the Warriors lost Ohrt, Timp, Abe Conway, Chandler Riehle, Brody Tieskoetter and Casey Bohr, along with exchange student Szymon Kalinowski.

Talented squad The Warriors of 2025 will feature 30 athletes. At the top of the list are returning letter winners Brad Dahl, Brennan Franzen, Lukas Weiss, Landen Schnuelle, Landon Livingood, Irving Flores, Kaden Barton-Franzen, Tristen Bodensteiner and Eric Greve.

They will be joined by a host of upperclassmen including seniors Mason Cox, Yahir Macario and Shayde Wermers; junior

Kyle Kuboushek and Henry Willey; sophomores Cody Bodensteiner, Gavin Feickert, Tyler Fels and Landon Humpal.

Rounding out the squad are freshmen Andy Achahua, Camden Bullerman, Hugh Conway, Cameron Einck, Jordan Einck, Levi Feickert, Clayton Kuboushek, Ethan Oyloe, Jordan Pahl, Brendon Riehle, Adam Schmitt and Caden Tieskoetter.

“Last year our numbers were down a bit, and we weren’t always able to fill all of the events,” noted Coach S. Conway. “While we lost seven athletes from last year, we picked up 15. That is going to give us the ability to fill nearly event.

We have a solid group of returners that will be the nucleus of our team.”

Now it is time for the seniors and juniors to step up as leaders to show the large contingent of freshmen how things are done,

Good Luck to the Spring Athletes this season!

Back to compete on the oval for the Warrior boys with a letter are (front row, l-r) Brad Dahl, Brennan Franzen, Lukas Weiss, Landen Schnuelle; (back row) Landon Livingood, Irving Flores, Kaden Barton-Franzen, Tristen Bodensteiner and Eric Greve. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Good luck

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SPRING ATHLETES

and to our own Decorah High School senior tennis player JAIDYN DUVEL Dr. Peter J. Blodgett Dr. John E. Wilmes Dr. Lana W. McDermott Dr. Janet L. Boyes

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SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW 2025

B-6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

SW boys eyeing big season on the greens

The South Winn boys golf team has the talent — and the experience — to be the team to beat in the Upper Iowa Conference this spring.

With five of their six top players back from last year’s state-qualifying team, the Warriors will be strong.

Hoping the hours logged on the courses this past year pay off is head coach Michael Wenthold, who is entering his eighth season at the helm.

A big year While last season the Warriors were young, the talent pool was deep with five returning letter winners.

The spring proved to be no trouble for South Winn as the squad went 18-5 in dual action and finished as the team run-

ner-up by one stroke behind MFL MarMac at the Upper Iowa Conference meet. Four Warriors finished in the top 15 for all-UIC honors including Cale Kleppe, Jackson Goltz, Braiden Todd and Carson Streeter.

At the Class 1A sectional meet a week later, the Warriors fired a combined 327 to win the title and advance to district competition. Playing at Highland Park Golf Course in Mason City, South Winn punched their ticket to state for just the third time in school history, winning with a 325 tally. The sophomore quartet of Matson Winings, Kleppe, Todd and Streeter led the charge at the district meet with senior Jordan Baumler and Goltz also on the course.

Weather interrupted the state

Returning letter winners for the Warrior linksters will be (lr) Carver Wenthold, Braiden Todd, Matson Winings, Carson Streeter, Cale Kleppe and Jackson Goltz. (Photo by Becky Walz)

tournament, cutting it to a oneday event instead of two, leaving the Warriors with a one day total of 337 for eighth place in a tight Class 1A race at the Ames Golf & Country Club.

Loaded Coach Wenthold will have lots of names to look to this season. At the top of his list are his athletes from a year ago.

“Our key strength will once again be our depth,” noted the coach. “We have a strong core of players returning from a very talented team and we have a lot of guys who we can rely on to score well for us.”

Topping that list is Kleppe, a junior who averaged 42.76 strokes per nine holes a year ago, leading the team. Goltz, now a senior, was second with a 43.78 nine-hole average. With a 44.14 average is Streeter, last year’s sectional runner-up sits third. Winings brings back an average of 44.83 strokes per nine holes after finishing fourth at districts as a sophomore last season. Finishing third at the sectional last season, Todd returns to the links with a 45.39 average. Joining the ranks of letter winners with some varsity action under his feet is Carver Wenthold who average 46.66 per nine holes.

“We do have some guys re-

Set to swing the clubs in 2025 for the South Winn boys’ golf team are (front row, l-r) Ethin Timp, Jackson Hemesath, Luke Kruckman; (back row) Carver Wenthold, Braiden Todd, Matson Winings, Carson Streeter, Cale Kleppe and Jackson Goltz. Not pictured are Kaden Cook, Toa Ryan, Trevor Sbiral and Carson Straube. (Photo by Becky Walz)

covering from some injuries, but we have a lot of time to get guys healthy and a team that is deep enough that we can still have a lot of success in the meantime,” added coach Wenthold.

Time well spent Coach Wenthold believes it will be a battle between his

Warriors and MFL MarMac again this season.

“If we continue to play well at the end of the season, I think we should be in the mix for the conference championship,” the coach added. “This team returns a lot from the top 10 finish last year and it will be interesting to see how the guys respond to the pressure, or if they even put that

Experience to guide way for Warrior girls It will be a year of new faces for the South Winn girls’ golf team in 2025.

Having graduated four varsity members at the end of last year, the Warriors will need to find some players to step up quickly.

Putting the team together is Glenna Munuswamy, who leads the Warriors for her seventh season.

Big improvement Four seniors combined with a pair of juniors led the Warrior squad into the 2024 season. Two-time all-conference performer Katrina Hageman set the tone for much of the season, along with Annie Ondrashek, Brooke Steffans, Paige Jaster, Julia Carnesi and Avery Luzum.

Heavy overnight rains the night before the UIC meet proved troublesome for the teams, leaving South Winn to finish third with a 437. Hageman dropped the lowest 9-hole score on the front nine with a 43 and finished with a 55 on the back nine for a 98 tally and a third-place finish overall.

It came down to the wire a week later at the Class 1A Regional, hosted by the Warriors at Silver Spring Golf Course,

South Winn finished as the runner-up with a 433 to advance further into the postseason.

Leading the way for South Winn with 107s on their cards were Steffans and Carnesi. Hageman finished one stroke back while Luzum fired a 111 to conclude the Warrior scoring. Also on the course for SW were Ondrashek and Jaster.

At the regional final, South Winn may not have qualified for state, but the Warriors did complete the day with a season low score of 425, finishing sixth.

Steffans fired a career-low 18hole score of 105, while Hageman and Carnesi wrapped up the season with a 106. Filling out the scorecard with a 108 was Luzum. Rounding out the Warriors’ squad were Ondrashek (116) and Frana (124).

Two remain The Warriors will look to their two returning letter winners to lead the squad in 2025.

The senior duo of Carnesi and Luzum return as the lone letter winners with Bailee Frana, Aubrey Hageman and Liz Bohr who have cycled through the varsity roster during their careers at South Winn.

Rounding out the team are seniors Ellie Knutson and Abby Wagner; juniors Ella Theis, Addison Timp; sophomores Delaney Steffans, Hailey Hageman, Chloe Wiltgen; and freshmen Maya Lensing, Claire Becker and Helen Frana.

“Claire Becker and Maya Lensing are both freshmen who come in with a lot of golf experience. We expect to see them making great strides this year and contributing to the team,” said coach Munuswamy. “Abby Wagner is a senior but competing in golf for the first time. Her golf experience and athleticism could prove to be a benefit to the team as well as her leadership ability.”

With 15 girls competing for varsity spots, the Warriors definitely have strength in numbers as any one of them could snag a top six spot in the line-up according to the coach.

In the league “I think that competition alone will push us to improve throughout the season. Our seven seniors should do a great job leading and pushing our underclassman. We have several girls who were already

SW golf schedule

*All meets are co-ed and begin at 4 p.m., unless noted otherwise April 14 vs. MFL MarMac (Calmar) April 17 vs. Central Elkader (Ossian) April 19 at New Hampton tnmt. (boys), 9 a.m.

April 21 at Dike-Hartford, 12 p.m.

April 22 vs. Decorah/Turkey Valley (Calmar) April 24 at Clayton Ridge April 28 at Postville (Luana) May 1 vs. West Central (Ossian) May 5 vs. North Fayette Valley (Calmar) May 6 vs. Charles City (Calmar) May 8 at Turkey Valley/ Waukon (Jackson Junction) May 12 at UIC Meet-Boys (Jackson Junction), 9 a.m.

May 13 at UIC Meet-Girls (Guttenberg), 9 a.m.

SW girls track schedule

Avery Luzum (left) and Julia Carnesi will lead the Lady Warriors on the courses as the lone returning letter winners.

(Photo by Becky Walz) close to claiming varsity spots last season. With that group and our new golfers, the jockeying for position should raise our level of play,” noted coach

Members of the South Winn girls’ golf team in 2025 are (front row, l-r) Aubrey Hageman, Delaney Steffans, Maya Lensing, Julia Carnesi, Ellie Knutson; (back row) Avery Luzum, Hailey Hageman, Claire Becker, Helen Frana, Abby Wagner and Liz Bohr. Not pictured are Ella Theis, Addison Timp, Chloe Wiltgen and Bailee Frana. (Photo by Becky Walz)

All the best for a successful and exciting season!

Have a great season, athletes!

563.382.2911 • WinnMed.org

much pressure on themselves.

It will be important to work hard and stay focused early in the season so that way we can ensure that we are once again playing our best at the end of the year. In the meantime, I look forward to working with this group of guys who love golf and are a ton of fun to be around.”

Good Luck!

Munuswamy.

When it comes to the race in the Upper Iowa Conference the veteran coach identified MFL MarMac and North Fayette Valley as solid teams as the returning champions and runners-up.

“I could see us once again placing in the top three. We have a chance to be pretty competitive this year. If we commit to focused practices with a mindset of improving each day, we could be carding some low scores by the end of the season.

I think this particular group of ladies are ready to move the Warrior golf team to another level, and I am excited to see what they can accomplish,” she finished.

.

April 10 at Decorah, 5 p.m.

April 17 at Decorah, 5 p.m.

April 21 at Hudson, 4:30 p.m.

April 25 at North Fayette Valley, 4:30 p.m.

May 1 at Crestwood, 4:30 p.m.

May 5 hosts Invite, 4:30 p.m.

May 8 at UIC Outdoor (Monona), 4 p.m.

May 15 at State Qualifying (TBA), 4 p.m.

May 22-24 at State Meet (Des Moines), TBD

SW boys track schedule April 10 at Postville, 4:30 p.m.

April 14 at Decorah, 5 p.m.

April 21 at Decorah, 5 p.m.

April 25 at North Fayette Valley, 4:30 p.m.

May 1 at Crestwood, 4:30 p.m.

May 5 hosts Invite, 4:30 p.m.

May 8 at UIC Outdoor (Monona), 4 p.m.

May 15 at State Qualifying (TBA), 4 p.m.

May 22-24 at State Meet (Des Moines), TBD

Have a great season

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900 Montgomery St., Decorah, IA • 563-382-2933

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