March 26, 2024

Tax prep available to qualified residents

By Roz Weis

Nearly 40 Driftless area volunteers are hard at work this spring helping folks file federal and state income tax forms.

Tax specialists through the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) meet on a regular basis with as many as 600 qualified clients needing tax prep assistance. They offer the free tax preparation guidance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

This program is designed so that traditionally underserved community members can get their taxes prepared for free -specifically low to moderate income individuals and families, single parents, the elderly, people with disabilities and limited English speakers.

The VITA program is operated by volunteers certified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) with specific tax preparation training. RSVP and VITA have been cooperating on the program for four years.

RSVP Director Deana Hageman said the tax program is one of the largest offered by RSVP and it’s a busy time of year for the volunteers.

Appointments may be made prior to the Wednesday, April 3 deadline by calling 563-277-

7246. VITA volunteers will help determine those eligible for the tax preparation services and provide the best method for submission of materials. Each eligible client receives assistance from a VITA volunteer to process and submit tax filing information.

Program information

The taxpayer meets in-person with staff or a volunteer who will verify your identification and help you to complete the intake form and order the tax documents. The tax forms and documents are scanned and uploaded to the organization providing volunteer tax preparers. Tax returns will be prepared within two weeks. The tax preparer will contact you if they have questions and when your tax return is complete and ready for review. You will come in person (or electronically) to sign the return. Once signed, the federal and state returns will be electronically filed for free. Free tax prep

continued on page 10

Representatives from the Regional AmeriCorps Seniors office recently made a stop in Decorah to learn more about the Northeast Iowa Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), tax preparation assistance and other services provided to area communities through partner stations. Pictured are, front: Deana Hageman, Northeast Iowa RSVP Director and Sue Schulz, RSVP Volunteer and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program Greeter; and back row: Mona Nelson and Jan Steiner, RSVP Volunteers and VITA Coordinators, Torri Tuttle, Portfolio Manager with AmeriCorps Seniors, and Kristin Honz, Senior Portfolio Manager with AmeriCorps Seniors. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Roz Weis)

By Denise Lana

The morning of Tuesday, March 19, ushered in the first day of spring with a thick chill clad in frigid gusting winds across the North Star state. Inside the Winona County Courthouse in Winona, Minn., the atmosphere was equally chilly as people gathered outside a third-floor courtroom. News reporters quietly congregated, law enforcement officials hastened to and fro, and a huddle of 20-somethings whispered hushed conversation. A quartet of people broached the landing at the far staircase and queued up adjacent to the group of young women, who noticeably became more animated with the quartet’s arrival. Whispered conversation turned frantic buzz, and the nervous silence became heavy.

women. One woman immediately exited the area, hurrying down the stairs. Within moments, the young lady returned with a sheriff’s deputy, who silently stood watch across from the two groups.

The shouting man was Richard Fravel, who was joined by his wife, adult son and adult daughter to support youngest son and brother, alleged murderer Adam Fravel.

Judge restricts public access to statements, grand jury evidence in Fravel two-day pretrial hearing

each one for security hazards before allowing them to enter the courtroom. Fravel’s family made their way to a wooden pew behind the defense counsel table, with the news reporters scattering across the rear of the gallery. The group of young women sat shoulder-to-shoulder behind the parents and sister of Kingsbury, who sat together in the front row behind the state’s counsel table.

medical history, motion to restrict video and audio evidence from being made public during pretrial hearings, and motion to restrict grand jury documents and evidence from being made public during pretrial hearings.

Buytendorp scheduled the change of venue motion for April 30, with the remaining motions being addressed March 19 and 20.

The tense void was fractured split-second, as the paternal figure in the quartet bellowed out, “If you are so threatened by me, why are you sitting next to me, then?” The man’s words were obviously and angrily directed at the group of younger

The youngest Fravel was charged June 7, 2023, with two counts of second-degree murder of off-and-on girlfriend, Madeline Kingsbury, who was a close friend to several of the women who were yelled at by the Fravel patriarch. Kingsbury went missing March 31, and her remains were located north of Mabel, Minn., June 7. Fravel remained in jail under a $2 million bond, which was increased to $3 million in October 2023, after a grand jury returned additional charges of first-degree murder and aggravated first degree murder.

Soon, court officials queued up family and friends, news and media persons, checking

Winneshiek Co. Fair announces Saturday night entertainment

The Winneshiek County Fair will feature a grandstand performance by American country music singer and songwriter Travis Denning – accompanied by “The Voice” Season 2 contestant Raelynn. Gates open for the show at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, July 13. Denning’s first No.1 and Platinum certified single “After A Few,” was released in 2019. Other singles include “ABBY,” “Buy A Girl A Drink” and “David Ashley Parker From Powder Springs.” The fair board earlier announced that Joe Nichols will perform Friday, July 12, at 9 p.m. For more information, visit www. winneshiekcountyfair.org.

Fravel was soon escorted into the room, clad in orange — his face and demeanor expressionless. Ambient voices hushed and the room turned pin-drop silent as Presiding Judge Nancy Buytendorp took her place at the bench and started the proceedings.

Tuesday’s hearing addressed numerous pretrial motions submitted by the state and the defense earlier this year. Motions included the defendant’s motion to change venue, motion to dismiss the state’s aggravated charge, motion to dismiss one charge of first-degree murder, motion to find inadmissible any evidence, testimony, or documents relating to Kingsbury’s

First to be addressed was a motion for a restrictive order requesting that during pretrial hearings, the public be denied access to grand jury transcripts and grand jury exhibits. This was based, in part, on the defense seeking a change of venue, with Fravel alleging he cannot receive a fair and impartial trial in Winona County because of the extensive media coverage. If the public had access to the grand jury records and transcripts, those records and transcripts could be skewed to the point of being inaccurate and prejudicial, hindering a fair Fravel pretrial hearing continued on page 4

Pictured speaking with media outside of the Winona County Courthouse are (l-r) Madeline Kingsbury’s father David Kingsbury, step-mother Cathy Kingsbury, mother Krista Naber and sister Megan Kingsbury. Media outlets from Rochester, Minneapolis, St Paul, northeastern Iowa, and La Crosse, Wis., attended the two-day pretrial hearings March 19 and 20. (Driftless Multimedia photos by Denise Lana)

Gardening in the Driftless

By Katie Drewitz, University of Minnesota Extension

Join the Houston County Extension Master Gardener volunteers for their 12th Annual Spring Days event “Gardening in the Driftless”.

Gardening enthusiasts will gather April 6 at the Houston High School in Houston, Minn., to learn from experts about a wide variety of gardening topics.

The day will kick off with registration at 8:30 a.m., followed by the keynote speaker Meg Cowden at 9 a.m.

Cowden, a national speaker, YouTuber and author of “Plant, Grow, Harvest, Repeat”, will present “Sowing Hope: Grow More Food Across the Seasons with Succession Planting”.

The keynote will be followed by breakout sessions taught by local experts, including Firewise: How we become firewise as landowners; Zentagle (hands-on, limited); How to Incorporate and Bring the Wild Home; We Dig Root Vegetables (cooking demo); Garden Entrepreneurs; a panel, Citizen Science; and Winter Sowing (hands-on, limited).

The afternoon will end with a raffle drawing, a new feature, replacing the silent auction. Registration includes all session materials and lunch. Registration forms are available at the Houston County Extension office and online at https://z. umn.edu/SpringDays.

For more information, call 507-725-5807.

Cresco

Saturday, March 30: 10 a.m. at Accura HealthCare.

Decorah

Monday, April 1: 10:45 a.m. at Aase Haugen Senior Services starting at the solarium facing Ohio Street.

Fort Atkinson

Saturday, March 30: 10 a.m. at the Fort Atkinson Public Park. Hosted by the Fort Atkinson Public Library.

Harpers Ferry Saturday, March 30: 10 a.m. at the ballpark.

Lansing

Saturday, March 30: 1 p.m. at the Red Barn Campground & Restaurant.

Protivin

Saturday, March 30: 1 p.m. at the ballpark. Hosted by the Protivin Booster Club.

Ridgeway

Saturday, March 30: 9 a.m. at the ballpark. Hosted by the Lincoln Leaders 4-H Club.

Spillville

Waukon

Saturday, March 30: Register at 10 a.m., hunt at 10:30 a.m. at Waukon City Park.

Harmony

Saturday, March 30: 9:30-11 a.m. at the Harmony Community Center. Free movie at the JEM Theatre at 11 a.m. Hosted by Filmore Central ECFE.

Rushford

Friday, March 29: 4 p.m. at Rushford Post 94 American Legion. Hosed by the Rushford Legion Auxiliary.

Saturday, March 30: 9 a.m. at Riverside Park. Hosted by the Calmar/Springfield Luther League.

South Winn freshman Intro to Agriscience students just completed their animal science unit and were able to learn about livestock anatomy and see what cattle ultrasounds look like for single and twin births. Pictured are Jayden Timp, Haley Fisher and Annie Hageman. (submitted)

South Winn Ag Dept receives grants

Melissa Hageman and the South Winneshiek Agriculture Department were recently awarded a $10,000 Farm Credit Working Here Grant.

The Working Here grant program has been supporting nonprofit organizations in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming since 2013.

Additionally, South Winneshiek earned a $5,000 SWEFT (South Winneshiek Education Foundation) Grant to combine

funds and purchase a Reality Works Bovine Birthing and Ultrasound Simulator for the newly added Veterinary Science Agricultural Class at South Winneshiek.

“Vet Science is taught in the spring and uses a combination of the Cornell Veterinary Science Curriculum and the Reality Works Curriculum,” said Hageman.

Additionally, the South Winn Ag Dept was able to purchase

a Swine Breeder and Farrowing Simulator, ear tagging, and notching simulator and fetal pig dissection kit.

With the hope of future funding and grants, we hope to expand our simulators to small-animal simulators for cats and dogs along with Bovine Calf and IV Simulators and continue to grow the Veterinary Science program for all students who are both going into industry and returning to the family farm.

Minnesotans with private wells urged to test their drinking water for contaminants

In conjunction with National Groundwater Awareness Week, now in its 25th year, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is reminding Minnesotans who rely on a private household well for their drinking water to test regularly for contaminants. Testing is particularly important if babies or pregnant people will be drinking the water.

More than 4 million Minnesotans rely on groundwater for their drinking water, including 1.1 million who rely on a private well. A recent MDH study found that less than 20 percent of well users test their drinking water as frequently as MDH recommends.

Public water systems are required to meet federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards, which MDH enforces, but private wells do not have those same protections. If groundwater is or becomes contaminated, it can affect the health of those who drink it. MDH therefore recommends testing private wells regularly and using an accredited laboratory for that testing (Search for Accredited Laboratories).

“You cannot taste, smell or see most contaminants, so testing your private well is the only way to know what’s in your drinking water,” said MDH Water Policy Manager Tannie Eshenaur. “The good news is that there are many ways to address water quality issues.”

The five most common contaminants in Minnesota, and

“The Impact of a Father: A Daughter’s First Love” April 6 in Decorah

A presentation and book signing by Bob Kroll, author of “The Impact of a Father: A Daughter’s First Love”, will be held following Mass at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Decorah Saturday, April 6.

Beginning at 10:15 a.m., Kroll will present “The Father Wound...and Beyond” followed by a book signing and free will offering lunch. At 1:15 p.m., Kroll will present “Forgiveness and Freedom.”

Kroll grew up in Wisconsin in an alcoholic, abusive home, the oldest of nine children. He is the founder of With All Your Heart Institute, and his powerful presentations can profoundly change hearts and minds of audiences.

The event is handicap accessible. For more information, contact 563-380-7892.

their potential health effects, include:

• Nitrate: Test every year. Porous geology in southeast Minnesota and sandy soils in central Minnesota make these areas of the state especially susceptible to nitrate contamination from fertilizer, manure, wastewater and faulty septic systems. Consuming too much nitrate can cause babies to develop methomoglobinemia (also known as blue baby syndrome), which can be fatal.

• Coliform bacteria: Test every year. Coliform bacteria can indicate that other infectious bacteria, viruses or parasites may be in your water. These may cause diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, nausea, headaches, fever and fatigue.

• Arsenic: Test at least once. Arsenic has been detected in about half of private wells constructed since 2008. Drinking water that contains arsenic can increase your risk of cancer and other serious health effects.

• Lead: Test at least once. Lead from pumps or pipes can damage the brain, kidneys and nervous system. It also can slow development or cause learning, behavior and hearing problems.

• Manganese: Test at least once. Manganese can cause problems with memory, attention and motor skills. It can also cause learning and behavior problems in infants and children.

If testing identifies any contaminants, a variety of treatment options are available to improve

water quality, depending on the contaminant(s) to be removed. Solutions can include installing point-of-use or whole-home filters such as reverse osmosis or a water softener, repairing cracks where contaminants are entering the well or potentially even building a new well. A limited number of grants and low-interest loans are available to help offset water treatment costs.

More information about well testing, understanding your test results and treatment options can be found on MDH’s website. More information about the quality of water provided by public water systems is shared annually in each community’s Consumer Confidence Report.

Filmore County Conservation to host groundwater update March 27

The Fillmore County Soil and Water Conservation District will provide an update regarding the groundwater/EPA petition and response for southeast Minnesota on Wednesday, March 27. The Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program will also be discussed. Registration opens at 11:15 a.m., and includes a free lunch at 11:30 a.m. The program begins at noon. Registration will help plan for food quantities needed. To register, call or text 507-887-0240.

SupportingSheena

In February Sheena (Blaess) Dix suffered a brain bleed/hemorrhagic stroke that affected her entire left side. Following a craniotomy, Sheena spent 3 weeks in Saint Mary’s Intensive Care & Neuro Units in Rochester, before transferring to intensive therapy at Unity Point-Allen Hospital’s Inpatient Rehabilitation Center in Waterloo. She has made tremendous progress toward recovery but has a challenging road ahead.

Sheena has touched many lives in the Decorah area through her work at Helms Funeral Home and 14 years in elder care/social work, serving residents of Aase Haugen Senior Services and Barthel Eastern Star/Arlan Falk Assisted Living. She also assists community members with end-of-life care and planning (Full Sirkel Solutions) and was a long-time member of Decorah’s Alpha Sigma chapter of Beta Sigma Phi International Sorority.

Sheena’s friends are organizing/accepting donations to assist with medical expenses and ongoing needs as she continues therapy and recovery.

HOW TO DONATE

1.

Solar eclipse program tonight in

Decorah

Decorah Public Library will host an enlightening evening program centered around the marvels of solar eclipses, presented by Dr. Tim Folkerts Tuesday, March 26, at 6 p.m., in the library mezzanine.

Folkerts, an Iowa native, esteemed physicist, and seasoned educator will guide attendees through the fascinating world of solar and lunar eclipses. Having nurtured a passion for science from a young age, Dr. Folkerts brings a wealth of knowledge from his academic journey, which includes a double major in Physics and Mathematics from Central College in Pella, and a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of California at Davis. His career spans research in superconductivity at Iowa State University and educational roles in colleges across Iowa, Kansas, and Indiana, alongside managing a small planetarium in Kansas.

The program will cover a range of intriguing topics, including:

The Cosmic Dance: Understanding the positioning of the sun, moon and earth required for a solar eclipse, and contrasting this with the more common lunar eclipses.

Eclipses Through Time: Exploring significant past and future eclipse dates, delving into their historical, religious, and cultural significances.

The April Eclipse Path and Timing: Detailing the trajectory and timing specifics of the upcoming solar eclipse.

Safe Eclipse Viewing: Sharing various methods and tips for safely experiencing the wonder of an eclipse.

Library program organizers said the event promises to be an enlightening experience for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

For more information, contact the Decorah Public Library or visit decorahlibrary.org

Gundersen honors doctors with food pantry donations

WELCOME, IVORY WALSH

Congratulations to Zack and Matison Walsh of Decorah on the birth of their daughter, Ivory Diane!

Ivory was born March 18, at 8:29 a.m., weighing 5 lbs, 15.5 oz and was 20 inches long. She was delivered by Certified Nurse Midwife Stephanie Riley and nurses Stephanie, Haley and Jamie. Ivory is welcomed home by siblings Aria (10) and Henrietta (3), and grandparents Tracey (Hovden) and Jerry Walsh of Spring Park, Minn., and Trina and James Scanlan of Caledonia, Minn. 235 8th Ave W, Cresco | rhshc.com | 563-547-2101

Fravel pretrial hearing continued

and impartial trial. A second motion for a restrictive order was also addressed, this time regarding public access to audio and video conversations and statments made between Fravel and law enforcement, specifically from March 31 through April 2.

In both motions, Zachary Bauer, Fravel’s defense attorney, emphasized all the statments and evidence contains substantial material facts and information that has not been released publicly. He reiterated this in court, stressing that due to the substantial amount of public interest and media coverage, if the audio and video statements became public, they could be “sliced and diced and put together in a way that might not be accurate.” Furthermore, public audio and video might have a prejudicial impact, eliminating a fair and impartial jury and trial.

messages on his phone, and his phone was then collected as evidence. She said that at no time was her gun pulled or handcuffs removed from her belt. Sobotta then said that Fravel went inside the house to get a jacket, and the conversation ended with the exchange of phone numbers.

Saturday, April 6 • 9:30 a.m.

Mrs. Bill “Ramona”

The next motion presented to the court requested that the defense be prohibited from eliciting or admitting any testimony, documents, or other physical evidence regarding Kingsbury in relation to any prescription medication or controlled substances, medical records, or information regarding diagnosed physical or mental health conditions, or medical therapy or professional counseling sessions. Additionally, if the defense intended to submit any of these, they would need to give prior appropriate notification to the state.

Buytendorp then addressed defense’s motion requesting the suppression of law enforcement statements due to Fravel not being Mirandized prior to the statements being collected.

According to Bauer, Fravel was not read his Miranda rights before being questioned by the initial officer on scene, nor was he Mirandized before two encounters with Winona Police Department Investigator Anita Sobotta and WPD Deputy Chief Jay Rasmussen.

Officer Ethan Sense, a patrol officer with WPD, was the officer who received the call March 31 regarding Kingsbury’s disappearance. Sense took the stand, where he testified that when he arrived at the residence shared by Fravel and Kingsbury, Fravel was not there. Sense called and texted Fravel, who did not answer or reply. Sense testified that he confirmed the cell number he had for Fravel was a good number, and he continued trying to contact Fravel regarding Kingsbury’s whereabouts.

Sense dialed a second number and reached a female he believed to be Fravel’s mother.

Sense also believed he heard a younger male’s voice in the background of the call and believed the voice to be Fravel’s voice. Sense testified he understood Fravel would call him back, and a short time later,

Sense received a call from Fravel’s father. Sense said he made phone contact with Fravel later, engaging in a conversation with Fravel for five to 10 minutes. Sense confirmed there was no in-person contact that night with Fravel or his family, and Sense wrapped up his testimony saying that his purpose for contacting Fravel was that he was “trying to reach Madeline.”

Winona Police Department Investigator Sobotta

Sobotta was then asked about her April 2 encounter with Fravel. She testified that she called Fravel’s father’s (Richard’s) phone, and they arranged to meet Fravel in Rushford, Minn. Rasmussen accompanied Sobotta to talk with Fravel, and she had her body camera running for the entirety. They drove in an unmarked car and met up with Fravel at the Rushford Kwik Trip. They waved at Fravel, who was in his vehicle, and he followed them to the Rushford Police Department. Sobotta described the RPD, saying it looks more like a city hall. As they arrived and entered RPD, there was a uniformed officer there who let them in, but the officer departed the premises right after. Sobotta explained it was her first time at RPD. Testimony continued, with her saying there were no threats given to Fravel, nor was he under arrest. He was given water, and there were no keys used to let him out of the building. Sobotta said that when the interview was over, Fravel got up, walked out, and left in his vehicle. Sobotta confirmed she had received training regarding Miranda rights, and she confirmed she knew that a “soft” Miranda was a less-formal summarization of the formal Miranda rights. She confirmed she did not Mirandize Fravel April 2, nor did Rasmussen.

Sobotta said there were approximately 10 officers working on the case April 1, confirming the same number of officers for April 2. She testified the drive to Fravel’s parents’ home was about a half hour from Winona, and they decided to meet in Rushford to save time, and because there were kids and dogs and noise at Fravel’s parents’ home, RPD would be a quieter place where they could talk in private. Sobotta said the April 2 interview lasted approximately 90 minutes. She confirmed that after the April 1 interview with Fravel, the department continued investigating.

When asked how many interviews of others were done in a police setting, Sobotta replied she did not know. Sobotta did testify that after the April 1 interview, but before the April 2 interview, she became aware of video of Fravel taken at the local Kwik Trip. When asked if anyone else was considered a possible suspect and interviewed for 90 minutes, Sobotta said she did not know.

were conducting interviews at the same time she was interviewing Fravel. Sobotta testified that other witnesses were interviewed at WPD, confirming that they were looking into the alibi of at least one other person. When asked if it was more important to get a confession or get answers, she replied, “To get answers.” Sobotta specified that she could not recall if the alibi of the other person was confirmed before the April 2 Fravel conversation, but she added it was possible. When asked if there was no-one who was a bigger suspect than Fravel after the other person’s alibi had been confirmed, Sobotta said, “Correct.”

Deputy Chief Rasmussen

Sobotta was dismissed, and Rasmussen took the stand. Many of the questions asked of Rasmussen were identical or like the ones asked of Sobotta. In a nutshell, Rasmussen testified that he was a police officer with 24 years of experience, including nearly five years as an investigator, 10 years as sergeant, and four years as deputy chief.

Rasmussen testified that the first time ever he met Fravel was at RPD April 2, when Rasmussen and Sobotta questioned Fravel. Rasmussen was a passenger in an unmarked police car driven by Sobotta, and they arrived at RPD at the same time as Fravel. No police lights were used, and Rasmussen testified that he did not brandish his handgun or take out his handcuffs and wave them around. Rasmussen said he was wearing civilian clothing on April 2, along with a protective vest. He confirmed his badge was visible, and he did not have police patches or American flag emblems on his clothing or vest. Rasmussen testified he was wearing a “watered down” utility belt, comprised of a handgun and handcuffs, a detachable ammunition magazine and his police badge. His body cam recorded the entire interview without pauses, Fravel was offered water and was never under arrest, and there were no threats or promises made to Fravel.

Like Sobotta, Rasmussen testified that yes, the department was doing a lot of interviews saying, “We had people coming and going from WPD.” At the end of the interview on April 2, according to Rasmussen, Fravel said he had “kind of put his walls up,” but Fravel did continue inquiring about his personal computer.

discuss further the conversation with Fravel. Rasmussen was queried regarding his history with Mirandizing. Had he ever Mirandized someone who then continued talking and confessed? Rasmussen said yes. Had he ever not Mirandized someone, and then that someone stopped the interview from taking place? Rasmussen said yes.

When asked if follow up questions are common after an initial interview, Rasmussen said yes. Were there other people of interest who had been interviewed a second time after their initial interview? Rasmussen said yes. Were those people witnesses or suspects? Rasmussen explained that people who had been interviewed more than once included family members and a male friend of Kingsbury. Rasmussen said that those people were not generally considered suspects, but stressed, “We have to be open to everything or we’re not doing our jobs.”

When asked if his priority of finding Maddi was any reason why he would want a false confession, Rasmussen declared, “Oh heavens no.”

Rasmussen was dismissed, and the state and defense had no further witnesses to call for questioning. Court was dismissed for the day, and all parties departed without incident.

Day two

‘A thousand leagues’ Court reconvened Wednesday, March 20, at 10 a.m., at which time Judge Buytendorp addressed the two motions for restrictive orders regarding public access to grand jury evidence and statements made by Fravel to law enforcement March 31 through April 2, 2023. The judge agreed with both motions and issued restrictive orders regarding public access to grand jury evidence and statements, as well as audio, video, and documented conversatins between Fravel and law enforcement March 31 through April 2.

Addressed next was the defense’s motion asking the court to dismiss the aggravated portion of one of his murder charges, citing lack of evidence.

The defense submitted Rasmussen’s statement from the previous day as exhibit, and the state did not object. Submitted in support of the motion were both grand jury transcripts as well as all exhibits used by the grand jury as basis for their decision of aggravated murder.

Next on the stand was Sobotta, a 23-year seasoned police officer and investigator. She testified that it was common for her to interview people with more than one investigator with her, as two people complement one another and can catch something that might be overlooked.

Sobotta stated she was dressed in plain clothes with a badge, wore handcuffs and a handgun and drove an unmarked car April 1, 2023, when she went to Fravel’s family home in Mabel, Minn. According to Sobotta, Fravel was already at his parents’ home when she arrived. She and another officer were invited inside, but they stayed on the porch because there were dogs and kids inside the house, and it was noisy. She spoke to Fravel and his father on the porch, and the entire conversation was recorded on her body camera. Sobotta testified that Fravel wanted to show her text

When asked if, during the April 2 interview with Fravel, she ever said she didn’t believe what Fravel was saying, Sobotta said yes. When asked if she ever said, “That’s bull [expletive],” during the conversation, Sobotta said yes. Sobotta testified that talking with Fravel April 1 was done to gather information. When asked if the April 2 meeting was done with the purpose of getting a confession from Fravel, Sobotta said it was to get more information about Fravel and Kingsbury. She elaborated, saying that Fravel’s timelines didn’t match up, and she was in disbelief about some of his timelines. Sobotta testified that Rasmussen voiced the same concern about the timelines not jibing.

Sobotta cited that during the conversation with Fravel April 2, there were “points of pushback”, but then Fravel would often then say, “Well that doesn’t make sense.”

When asked if Sobotta thought Fravel was a suspect while she was talking with him, Sobotta replied, “There was not one point during my interview where I thought he did it.” She did say that on April 1 she felt “he could have maybe been involved or maybe not,” and on April 2, she had “a more firm feeling.” When asked if there was any other equal or “more (than) equal” suspect, Sobotta said, “No.”

The state then questioned Sobotta, and the investigator confirmed that time plays a role when investigating and questioning people of interest. She confirmed that other officers

According to Rasmussen’s testimony, the interview lasted around 90 minutes, and neither Rasmussen nor Sobotta Mirandized Fravel. Rasmussen reinforced Sobotta’s testimony about why they met Fravel at RPD, testifying that Rushford was a convenient halfway point between Winona and Mabel.

Going into the April 2 interview, Rasmussen testified he knew the conversation with Fravel was going to run longer than the previous day’s conversation performed by Sobotta at the Fravel family home. On April 2, there was a lot of confusion, and there were points in the interview where Fravel’s story just didn’t add up. Rasmussen confirmed that on April 2 he may have said “it’s not adding up” or “there’s more to this.” According to Rasmussen, there were sporadic moments, about halfway into the conversation with Fravel, when Rasmussen felt things were not adding up, but he did testify that he did not Mirandize Fravel, because their conversation never got to the point where he felt it was necessary.

“It was all about finding Maddi,” Rasmussen recalled on the stand.

When asked if he felt there was a potential of a confession from Fravel on April 2, Rasmussen replied, “I think there’s that thought in just about any interview we do.”

“It was always in our mind he was a potential suspect,” Rasmussen said but then added that he wanted to be careful and not “get too tunnel visioned.” Rasmussen recalled that Fravel left the April 2 conversation a few minutes prior to his and Sobotta’s departure from RPD and that he and Sobotta did not

The court then heard discussion regarding the defense’s motion seeking dismissal of one of the first-degree murder charges, also citing lack of evidence. Submitted in support of the motion were the same grand jury transcripts and exhibits from the previous motion regarding aggravated charges.

With rulings on several of these motions still pending, both the state and defense were given until mid-May to submit arguments before the judge ruled on them. Buytendorp dismissed the court, reminding everyone of the next hearing April 30, at which time the defense’s request for a change of venue will be discussed.

Fravel, who had remained impassive throughout the two-day court session, was escorted out of the court to return to Winona County Detention Center.

As Kingsbury’s family exited the courthouse, the blustery winds remained constant, staving any signs of impending spring weather.

Kingsbury’s father, David Kingsbury, paused to talk with various media reporters about his feelings regarding the court hearings so far.

“A journey of a thousand leagues begins with a single step,” Kingsbury proclaimed. “We’ve had a few baby steps; this is just another one. We’re just checking off the boxes right now, and we are getting somewhere.”

Regarding the approaching one-year anniversary of his daughter’s death and disappearance, Kingsbury lamented, “Truly there are no words to describe it. You can’t get to the depth of emotion by talking about it. We really can’t convey it to you. It’s horrible, and it’s a nightmare.”

March 29-31

Ghostbusters Frozen Empire (PG-13)

Sports Editor: Becky Walz,

Decorah athletes to continue careers in college

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING

& CUSTOMER APPRECIATION NIGHT

The members of the Mabel Cooperative Telephone Company will meet

Monday, April 8 at 6 p.m. at the Mabel Community Center, 201 S. Main St., Mabel, MN. Please note the new day and time.

Nominations for directors for a three-year term are: Kevin Manning, Mitch Aasum, or Bob Erickson

Dave O’Connell • John Hove

Please watch your mail for important voting information!

McAllister’s will be providing a catered meal. We hope to see you there! - Kevin Manning, Secretary

signed an American Rivers Conference letter of intent last week to participate in football at Wartburg College. During the past two years, Rhodes has been standout lineman on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball for the Decorah football program. As a two-year letterwinner and captain his senior year, he helped the Vikings to a playoff appearance this season. During this time, Rhodes earned first team all-district honors on the field while also receiving academic all-district and academic all-state recognition for his work in the classroom. Rhodes is the son of Mark and Britt Rhodes and also participates in Basketball, Golf and National Honor Society.

Last week Decorah senior Brady Benzing signed an American Rivers Conference letter of intent to participate in soccer at Wartburg College. Benzing has been a two-year letterwinner for the boys soccer while helping the Vikings amass 31 wins in his three years in the program including sub-state final appearances in 2022 and 2023. Benzing is the son of Mitch and Heather Benzing and also participates in football.

Recently Decorah senior Dakota Johnson signed an American Rivers Conference letter of intent to participate in football at Wartburg College. During the past two years, Johnson has been a standout running back and defensive back for the Decorah football program highlighted by a rushing for over 1,300 yards and 21 touchdowns in his senior year. As a result of his efforts on the field, Johnson was recognized as first team all-district and first team all-state performer in addition to earning academic all-district honors. Johnson is the son of Darin Johnson and Heather Hollar and also participates in Track and National Honor Society.

his sophomore and junior years. Both of those seasons resulted in top-10 team rankings and sub-state final appearances as a forward. Jeremiah is the son of James and Amy Rediske and is a Decorah FFA Officer and member of National Honor Society.

Athletic Training Month; Three Trainers at VMH

March is National Athletic Training Month. Veterans Memorial Hospital has three athletic trainers on staff including Brad Krambeer, ATC, LAT; Austin Troendle, D-PT, ATC, who is also a physical therapist; and Shelly Valley, PT-A, ATC, who is also a physical therapist assistant. These trainers use their variety of skills to rehabilitate athletes, often communicating with the physicians to help coordinate the best recovery.

Athletic trainers help treat and prevent injuries for people of all ages from athletes to laborers. They specialize in the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of physical injuries to the muscle, ligament and bone,

as well as rehabilitation following surgery. Athletic trainers are also key in teaching injury prevention by explaining flexibility exercises, proper use of equipment and applying prevention

devices such as tape, bandages and braces.

For more information on Athletic Training services at Veterans Memorial Hospital, call 563568-3411.

Full coverage of Decorah, South Winn & Turkey Valley sports can be found in the “Weekend Wrap-up E-edition” Public Opinion Newspaper - both can be found at: https://issuu.com/driftlessmultimedia or scan this QR code

Pictured are the three Athletic Trainers at Veterans Memorial Hospital including, from left to right, Brad Krambeer, ATC, LAT; Shelly Valley, who is also a Physical Therapist Assistant and Austin Troendle, who is also a physical therapist. (submitted photo)

Decorah senior Jeremiah Rediske recently signed his American Rivers Conference letter of intent to participate in soccer at Buena Vista University. Rediske has been a two-year letter winner while helping the team to 23 total wins in during

Andrew Rhodes

WinnMed is honored to collaborate with a collective of dedicated physicians who consistently demonstrate their compassion & commitment to our patients & communities. Thank you!

EPA strengthens safeguards to protect midwestern families and children from lead

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is lowering recommended screening levels and strengthening guidance for investigating and cleaning up lead-contaminated soil in midwestern residential areas where children live and play.

“Every family and child, regardless of their zip code, deserves to live without worrying about the life-long health effects from exposure to lead pollution,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.

“[This] action ensures that EPA uses the latest, best available science to protect children living and playing near sites contaminated by lead in soil.” EPA is lowering the screening level for lead in soil at residential properties from 400

parts per million (ppm) to 200 ppm. At residential properties with multiple sources of lead exposure, EPA will generally use 100 ppm as the screening level.

Screening levels are not cleanup standards. While this update will help EPA site teams make site-specific cleanup decisions to protect nearby communities, EPA makes cleanup decisions specific to each site, using site-specific factors, including risk factors and community input that can vary from site to site.

The science is clear: There is no known safe blood lead level in children. In infants and children, lead can severely harm mental and physical development—slowing down learning and damaging the brain. In adults, lead can cause

increased blood pressure, heart disease, decreased kidney function, and cancer. Communities often face multiple sources of lead exposure, including from

lead-based paint, lead in soil, and lead in drinking water. For more information, visit the EPA website.

Andy Goodner, M.D.

Michael D’Netto, M.D.

Claire Haedike, Psy.D.

Anthony Coppola, D.O.

Annalee Fencl, D.D.S. David Foley, M.D.

Tedd Gentry, M.D.

Mark Ballard, M.D.

Darren Hyams, M.D.

Anna Mark, M.D.

Richard Remark, M.D.

Sandy Clayton, M.D.

Hannah Ingvalson D.O.

Tyler Menke, M.D.

Anna Ryan, M.D.

Scott Bohner, D.O.

Jessica Hyams, M.D.

Thomas Marquardt, D.P.M.

William Remington, M.D.

Ross Avant, M.D.

Ronald Hougen, Ph.D.

Kevin Locke, M.D.

Evan Nelson, M.D.

Emily Connor, M.D.

Sunil Khanna, M.D.

Adam Miller, M.D.

Janet Ryan, M.D.

Christopher Cooper, D.O.

Michael LaBelle, M.D.

Catherine Nelson, D.O.

Kristy Schilling, M.D.

Melissa Simon, D.O.

Caroline Schwickerath, D.O. Cynthia See, Au.D.

Ian Stock, D.O.

Elleson Schurtz, M.D.

Dominick Siconolfi, D.O.

Joe Starke, M.D.

Craig Sullivan, D.P.M.

Laurie Tope, D.O.

Eric Svestka, M.D.

Kent Svestka, M.D.

Kurt Swanson, D.O.

Brooke Tappe, D.P.M.

Matthew Thompson, D.O.

Gregory Valkosky, D.P.M.

John Vogel, D.O.

Lisa Zittergruen, M.D.

Paul Wenner, M.D.

Sarah Wymer, M.D.

Daniel Wientzen, D.O.

Phillip Yee, M.D.

RV Open House

Saturday, March 30 • 9 am - Noon

Bachelor’s Degree in Business or Engineering related field

SR. DESIGN ENGINEERINNOVATION

10 years of applied experience as a Quality Manager or equivalent “decision making” position

A person with a passion for process improvement within the Assembly operations group

A self-motivated and mechanically minded engineer who possesses a creative and innovative mindset

Black Belt or Master Black Belt

Certification and at least 2 years’ experience as full-time, active Belt

Experience with developing and implementing creative solutions including automation and robotics

Experience with CREO design so�ware, CREO mechanism and PTC Windchill is a plus

5 years’ experience as Lead Auditor for ISO9001 and IATF16949 current standards

Manager of Quality/Organizational

Excellence, or equivalent, certification preferred

Ability to cultivate, inspire, and motivate a high-performing team

Servant leadership with high integrity

A working knowledge of LEAN tooling and methodology is desired

Experience with troubleshooting and programming automation for maintenance and improvement of processes

Proficiency in MS Office, CAD packages and PLC logic is desired

Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and tools for Design for Six Sigma knowledge is preferred

Proficiency in Microso� Office programs, as well as strong communicaiton skills also preferred

Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with teams, colleagues, and senior management

Extensive experience with data analysis to support strong problem solving skills

Applied experience with core quality tools

Knowledge of what drives quality costs and the ability to reduce costs effectively

Technical and Professional Expertise

Fore! Aim high, score low

of varied sizes. The 1920s brought in the era of the formal 9-hole golf course

(first course in the area established in 1921), with many early courses no longer in existence.

One of those that passed into memory was Spillville’s Civic Improvement Association, who established the Riverside Golf Links in 1922, a 9-hole course that was one of the few courses available at the time. At the time, golf cost 15 cents per game, 50 cents per day or $2 per month to play on a course. The Riverside Golf Links course was closed in the early 1930s, but other courses opened over the years to fill the void for outdoor sport enthusiasts who enjoyed the game of golf, as well as the quest for the perfect par.

The South Winneshiek Golf Course

is a semi-private, 9-hole, par 36 course established in 1960 just outside Calmar. Wednesdays and Thursdays are members’ days, but the facility is open to the public other days.

Further south is the 18-hole classic course at Big Rock Country Club in Fayette, opened in 1965 and upgraded from nine holes in 2002. A variety of terrains are available through the holes, and the club offers public golfing in addition to memberships.

Golf has many benefits, especially for those walking the five to seven kilometers of an average nine-hole golf course. Between better breathing, increased flexibility, great aerobic exercise and stress relief being out in nature, there’s many reasons to take up

the sport. Watch a local school’s golf team to see the next generation learning how it’s done and see the fun of the sport.

Follow Decorah, South Winneshiek and Turkey Valley Golf teams and all school sports in the Decorah Public Opinion newspaper and the TriSchool Weekend Wrap-Up E-edition — both available as a subscription delivered to your mail or inbox each week.

As the days get warmer, consider taking up the clubs you have tucked away or taking up a new hobby with equipment rentals and enjoy some time getting out to play — the golf way.

There is no charge for VITA tax-filing services.

Guidelines to qualify for VITA assistance

• Persons with income of $64,000 or less

• Persons with disabilities

• Persons with limited English-language fluency Service types

• Face-to-Face: Taxpayer client (and spouse) meets with two tax-law certified volunteers who will prepare your return while you wait.

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The taxpayer completes his or her own return.

Multiple locations

• Virtual: Client scans all the required tax documents and intake form to the tax-law certified volunteers who prepare the tax return. When completed, the volunteer sends the completed returns to the client online.

• Do It Yourself: VITA provides free software access for both federal and state returns to anyone making less than $73,000 adjusted gross income.

• Drop-off: Taxpayer client meets with a tax-law certified volunteer, discusses client’s tax documents and an intake form, then leaves. At a-later scheduled time, the client picks up the completed tax returns.

An appointment is required before visiting any of the VITA sites by calling 563-277-7246.

The regional VITA sites include:

• Decorah: ISU Extension office, 2316 Sweet Parkway Road, Decorah; Decorah Public Library, 202 Winnebago Street, Decorah

• Waukon: ISU Extension office, 218 7th Avenue SE, Suite 102, Waukon

• Cresco: Cresco Public Library, 320 N. Elm Street, Cresco

• Postville: Postville Public Library, 235 W Tilden Street, Postville

• Elkader: ISU Extension Office, 120 S. Main St., Elkader

Each filing season, tens of thousands of dedicated VITA volunteers prepare millions of federal and state returns. They also assist taxpayers with the preparation of thousands of Facilitated Self-Assistance returns.