May 14, 2024

driftless

May

20 presentation features historical U.S. Veteran essays

Retired history teacher shares

World War II stories

By Roz Weis

A former Decorah teacher has donated a treasure-trove of historical essays for future generations.

For many years, the essays penned by former students after interviewing Driftless area veterans lay undisturbed in a box in Mary Jorgensen’s home. Included were unique stories from the World War II era.

A love for history and sharing stories of the past propelled Jorgensen, who taught U.S. History at Decorah High School from 1980 to 2000, to donate sample essays to the Decorah Genealogy Association.

Those well-designed writing assignments prompted students to think more deeply and thoroughly about a different time in history. Jorgensen’s goal was deepening the students’ understanding of another era. The interviews also helped students understand the importance of showing veterans the respect and appreciation they so greatly deserve.

The unvarnished truths shared by those veterans guided students in a valuable lesson about sacrifice and service. Some of those experiences had never before been shared by those veterans until the students reached out for the interviews.

“One student told me his grandfather took him up to the attic, opened a trunk and shared stories he had never before shared with his own family,” Jorgensen said.

Each year, her classes were instructed to contact an area World War II veteran, set up a one-on-one interview and write an essay. Questions for the veterans ranged from what the food

was like to how it felt to be on the front lines during a battle. Year, after year, hundreds of essays were turned in by her students for credit in her class. From those thousands of typed and/or handwritten assignments collected over the years, she saved more than 100 of the very finest for historical purposes.

“All of the essays were worth sharing of course,” she commented.

The colorful, unique stories can now be viewed in the collection at the Genealogy Association office.

Among the shared remembrances is an essay by Jake Nimrod of Decorah. He penned the essay back in February of 1996 when he was a student in Jorgensen’s 6th-hour American History class. He interviewed Spillville native Clarence Haug. Born in 1910, Haug graduated from Decorah High School. After graduating from the University of Iowa, he enrolled at West Point Academy. His military service took him to England where he worked on building air bases for heavy Allied bombers used against Germany. He was among those servicemen landing at Omaha Beach in the early hours on the day after the D-Day

Veteran

essays continued on page 7

PICTURED ABOVE- Retired

educator

The Harmony Economic Development Authority (EDA) held a golden-shovel groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of construction extending the Harmony-Preston Valley state bike trail. The event was held May 3 in Harmony, Minn.

The new Stateline Trail will extend from Harmony’s southern city limits to the Iowa state line, with a spur to Niagara Cave in Minnesota’s southern Fillmore County. Construction will continue throughout the rest of 2024 and is anticipated to be finished in 2025. The project has received nearly $6 million in federal, state and local funding — including $5.5 million from the State of Minnesota, $235,000 from the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund and $15,000 from the Harmony Area Community Foundation.

This trail will connect Niagara Cave, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Fillmore County, with Har-

Construction begins on Stateline bike trail

mony’s entertainment and tourism district, and be the first interstate trail to connect the state of Minnesota and Iowa. When Iowa finishes its connection to the Stateline Trail, users will be able to ride to Iowa destinations such as Cresco and Decorah,

Robles named Spring Grove Syttende Mai Grand Marshals

By Zach Jensen

Nineteenth century statesman

Sir William Ewart Gladstone said, “Show me the manner in which a nation cares for its dead, and I will measure with mathematical exactness the tender mercies of its people, their respect for the laws of the land, and their loyalty to high ideals.”

This year’s Spring Grove Syttende Mai Parade Grand Marshals, Alan and Judy Roble, live by those words.

The couple, both born and raised in Spring Grove, Minn., took over the Roble Funeral Home in 1993, when they bought the business from Alan’s father. Alan is the funeral direc-

tor for the business, and Judy is the secretary and also assists with visitations and funeral services.

“My dad works super hard to make sure the deceased loved ones are honored as best he can,” said the Robles’ daughter, Kirstin.

Judy and Alan, both of Norwegian heritage, agreed they love their work and enjoy helping families through difficult parts of their lives. And they’re involved in their church and community because they like helping to ensure the “good and caring spirit” of Spring Grove continues to flourish.

“From my experience with Alan and Judy, they are very

and north to destinations such as Preston, Lanesboro, Rushford via Minnesota’s Bluffland Trails System. Eventually plans call for this trail network to connect through Chatfield, to the local and state trails in Rochester to the north and eastward

across the Mississippi to La Crosse, Wis.

The existing trail, which connects to Lanesboro and the rest of the current Bluffland Trails system along the Root River, runs between Harmony and Preston and was completed in 1998.

thoughtful and kind people,” added Syttende Mai Parade Committee member Lisa Myhre. “When I have lost a loved one, they aren’t only there for them, they are also always making sure the family is doing well and all their wishes are met.

“When they were asked to be the Parade Marshals they commented they aren’t used to

any attention they are always behind the scenes,” Myhre continued. “This is another reason I believe they are a good pick. They deserve recognition for all the special work they do in the last moments we all have with our loved ones and friends.” Spring Grove’s Syttende Mai Grand Parade begins at noon, Saturday, May 18, in downtown Spring Grove.

NICC commencement celebrated

Nearly 20 Northeast Iowa Community College graduates from Allamakee County attended the school’s commencement ceremonies Thursday, May 9, at the Center for Faith and Life on the Luther College campus in Decorah. More photos from the event can be found in this week’s Public Opinion newspaper. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Zach Jensen)

Pictured (l-r) are Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Parks and Trails Director Ann Pierce, local volunteer Vicky Tribon, Harmony Mayor Steve Donney and landowner Larry Peterson at the groundbreaking ceremony May 3 for the new Harmony Stateline Trail in Harmony. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Kathy Simpson)

Alan and Judy Roble, owners of Roble Funeral Home, have been selected as the Grand Marshals in this year’s Syttende Mai parade Spring Grove. (submitted)

Decorah

Mary Jorgensen, at right, and Midge Kjome from the Decorah Genealogy Association, share some of the World War II essays recently donated to the historical collection. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Roz Weis)

Celebrate Syttende Mai!

Join us on May 17 for free admission all day plus a Children’s Parade, Decorah’s Nordic Dancers, hands-on crafts, and more!

Fiddler Erik Sessions will play live in the Commons and streamed on Vesterheim’s YouTube!

Made possible by a gift to the Vesterheim Annual Fund from Jeff and Marilyn Roverud.

Find more details at vesterheim.org

Celebrate Syttende Mai with Vesterheim

Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, invites all to celebrate Syttende Mai, Norway’s Constitution Day, on May 17, with activities on campus in Decorah and a live-stream fiddle concert online. Admission is free all day, and the museum and store will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Syttende Mai is the day Norway ratified its constitution in 1814 at Eidsvoll, and Norwe-

gians celebrate it with excited crowds – especially children –in the streets, waving flags and singing songs.

In the museum building, there will be hands-on craft making in the lobby from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and storytelling with Marcia Fox, inspired by Norwegian themes at 12:40 p.m.

In Vesterheim Commons, fiddler Erik Sessions will play from 12-1 p.m. This performance will by live streamed on Vesterheim invites the public to celebrate its Syttende Mai celebration on May 17, with activities including a children’s parade and performances by the Nordic Dancers. (submitted)

Vesterheim YouTube. Join in person or at youtube.com/vesterheimmuseum.

Outside in the museum campus, the Children’s Parade throughout Vesterheim Heritage Park will begin at 1 p.m., free ice cream treats from Sugar Bowl will be served at 1:15 p.m., and Decorah’s Nordic Dancers will perform after a brief welcome from Vesterheim President/CEO Chris Johnson at 1:30 p.m. Norwegian flags will be given out at the parade, and all are welcome to march along. There will also be guided tours of the historic buildings in Heritage Park at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the parade and Nordic Dancers will be canceled. All other activities will continue as planned. For more information, visit vesterheim.org or call 563382-9681.

Sons of Norway to feature Norman Borlaug presentation

Join the Sons of Norway Valdres Lodge meeting Tuesday, May 21, for a Syttende Mai celebration. Events begin at 6 p.m. with a catered Norwegian dinner at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church’s Fellowship Hall in Decorah.

The public is invited to share in this dinner with lodge members and guests by making their reservations by Tuesday, May 14. Payment for the meal may be brought to the event. To reserve dinner(s), contact Carol Maki by phone 563-277-1197 or e-mail camaki44@gmail.com.

Following the dinner there

Public invited to forest management field day May 21

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Iowa State University Extension will be showcasing various forestry

will be a presentation by Tom Spindler, who is past president, Education Coordinator and Tour Guide for the Norman Borlaug Heritage Foundation. His talk, titled “Norman Borlaug, Humanitarian Hero for the Hungry” will highlight Borlaug, an American agronomist who led initiatives worldwide that contributed to the extensive increases in agricultural production. Borlaug was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, one of only seven people to have received all three awards. practices at Volga River State Recreation Area as part of a public field day on May 21. Field day activities include reviewing the recent clear cut discussions on black walnuts, chronic wasting disease, ruffed grouse, proper planting, pruning and stock selection. The field day has demonstration areas and various speakers highlighting these practices.

“We want Volga to be a model of doing forest stewardship correctly,” said Jason Walker, Iowa Department of Natural Resources District Forester.

“We are following a plan developed for this 4,000-acre timber and the field day setting is a good way to highlight different management practices and allows for a good discussion.” For more information and a complete schedule, e-mail mick.klemesrud@dnr.iowa. gov.

Spring Grove Syttende Mai festivities begin May 15

The Spring Grove Syttende Mai Committee has announced its lineup for the Minnesota community’s annual Syttende Mai celebration.

Festivities kick off Wednesday, May 15, with “Music & Market” from 4-7 p.m. in Spring Grove City Park. The Queen Coronation and honoree acknowledgement will be held at 7 p.m. in the City Park Gazebo or at the Fest Building in case of rain.

The celebration resumes Friday, May 17 with city-wide garage sales, Norwegian Ridge Birding and Nature Trail hiking all day. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., an Olaf Kjome exhibit will be on display at the Giants of the Earth Heritage Center. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Merchants Bank will offer a community appreciation lunch, and the Legion’s brat stand will be serving from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Piece Makers Quilt Guild will host a quilt show from 12- 5 p.m. at the Trinity Center, and the Barnetoget (children’s parade) will be held at 1:15 p.m. A teen dance will be held from 7-10 p.m. at the Fest Building.

Saturday’s festivities begin again with city-wide garage sales, Norwegian Ridge Birding and Nature Trail hiking all day.

From 7:30-10:30 a.m., Dad’s Waffle Breakfast will be offered at the Fest Building, and “Running with my Gnomies” will be-

gin at 9 a.m. From 9-11 a.m. the Valheim Lodge of Sons of Norway will host a Norwegian bake sale at the Giants of the Earth Heritage Center, and at 10 a.m., a children’s pedal pull will be held at the Fest Building, with registration beginning at 9:15 a.m. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Piece Makers Quilt Guild will host a quilt show from 12- 5 p.m. at the Trinity Center, and various children’s activities will be offered in the park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., an Olaf Kjome exhibit will be on display at the Giants of the Earth Heritage Center, and the Legion brat stand will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Nordic Dancers will perform at 10:30 a.m. in Viking Memorial Park, and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the athletic boosters will sell pork burgers in front of the Lion’s Pub. The Grand Parade will begin at noon, and from 1-2 p.m., the First Brigade Band will perform at the City Park gazebo. From 1-4 p.m., the Kaptain Kirby Train will be available for children in the Trinity Church yard, and the soap box races will begin at 1 p.m. as will the Corn Hole. From 1:30-4 p.m., “chair volleyball” will be offered, and Mike McAbee will perform at the gazebo from 2-4 p.m. The Taste of Norway Dinner will be offered at 4 p.m. at the Giants of the Earth Heritage Center, with seating times at

& NATIONAL GUARD ADDITIONAL STATE VA

Effective July 1, 2024

4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. The First Brigade Band will perform again at 5 p.m. in the back garden of the Giants of the Earth Heritage Center. Norwegian Ridge Birding and Nature Trail hiking will again take place all day Sunday, and the First Brigade Band will perform at 9 a.m. Sunday at Trinity Church. The Piece Makers Quilt Guild will host a quilt show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Trinity Center, and a drive-thru meatball dinner will be offered at Trinity Lutheran Church from 10:30 a.m. until gone.

‘Trash-to-Cash’ quilting event May 14

The Decorah Area Quilters will meet at 6 p.m., Tuesday, May 14, at ArtHaus in Decorah for a “Trash-to-Cash” event. Quilters are encouraged to bring unfinished projects and used quilting gadgets to be sold.

Quilters can pay whatever they feel is reasonable with all proceeds benefiting the Decorah Area Quilters. A brief welcome with intro-

ductions, show-and-tell and a Q&A session will also be held. The Decorah Area Quilters meet at 6 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at ArtHaus. There is a nominal fee to attend.

All are welcome.

For more information, contact Mike Ellingsen at 507-6020322, or Jarret Johnson at 563419-6952.

Airing Out the Quilts

July 11

Decorah Area Quilters are joining the NorthEast Iowa Quilt Guild in presenting this year’s Airing Out the Quilts event from 3-7 p.m., July 11. Traditionally held the Thursday after the Fourth of July, this year’s celebration falls during the Winneshiek County Fair.

Contact

Main St., Decorah.

Sports Editor: Becky Walz, becky.walz@driftlessjournal.com

Kee

A total of six events will represent the Kee track and field programs at the state meet this week following Thursday’s Class 1A state qualifying meet at Edgewood-Colesburg. The girls will send five events, while one individual will race for the boys. In the team standings, the girls finished fourth with the boys finishing 12th

South Winn

Hosting one of the Class 1A

Sectional Tournaments at Silver Springs Golf Course Wednesday, the Warrior boys’ golf team scored the win with a 327 to advance to district competition at Mason City Tuesday, May 14. SW also had the medalist of the meet.

It was a busy night on the track for the South Winn track and field teams Thursday at the St. Ansgar Class 1A state qualifying meet. The SW girls finished the night fourth in the team standings with 75 points and had seven events qualify. Finishing with 64.5 points in sixth place, the boys will have four events on the track this week at Drake Stadium.

Friday the SW girls golf team hosted one of the Class 1A regional semifinal meets and came away with a runner-up finish to advance to the regional final in Nashua. Playing on the Silver Spring Golf Course, the Warriors shot a 433 behind Beckman Catholic who fired a 392.

Turkey Valley

Competing at the Class 1A Sectional Golf Tournament in Ossian the Turkey Valley boys’ golf team advanced to district play after finishing second with a 336 behind South Winn. The Trojans also had the sectional runner-up golfer.

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

LEFT: SW’s Carson Streeter and TV’s Caleb Kurtenbach wait to putt on the fifth hole during the Class 1A district meet Wednesday. The two squads finished 1-2 to advance to district competition. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

Thursday, the Trojan track and field teams were on the oval at St. Ansgar for one of the Class 1A state qualifying meets. Each squad scored 12 points and finished 12th in the team standings and will send one relay event to Drake Stadium to compete in the 2024 state track championships this week.

The Turkey Valley girls’ golf team snagged a third-place finish with 451 at the Class 1A regional semifinal at Silver Springs Golf Course in Ossian.

Decorah

The Decorah boys’ golf team wrapped up its season at the Class 3A Sectional Tournament Wednesday at Pin Oaks Links in Manchester, scoring a 343 to finish fifth in the team standings.

The Viking boys’ tennis team hosted the singles and doubles district tournament Wednesday at Luther College, crowning one singles champ and having a doubles team finish runner-up to advance to the state individual tennis tournament.

Thursday the Decorah girls’ and boys’ track and field teams competed at the Class 3A state qualifying meet in Clear Lake and claimed the titles for both divisions. The girls posted 163 points for the title, while the boys had 179 points. In addition, the Lady Vikes had 13 events qualify for state, while the boys will have 16 on the Blue Oval later this week.

The Viking boys’ soccer team recorded a 5-0 win at home Thursday in its final regular season game against Denver.

The Decorah girls’ soccer team hosted Denver for its final regular season match Thursday, falling 7-0.

Defeating Wahlert Catholic and Western Dubuque in a pair of 5-2 matches at the Class 1A Region 4 meet Friday, the Decorah girls’ tennis team advanced to the regional final against Dike-New Hartford.

Waukon

The Waukon boys’ golf team finished eighth at the Class 3A sectional tournament with a 378 Wednesday at Pin Oaks Links in Manchester.

The Indian track and field teams competed at the Class 2A state qualifying meet hosted by Denver. The girls took home fifth place with 79 points, while the boys scored 64 points and finished sixth. Six events will compete in Des Moines at state for the boys, while the girls will send five events to the Blue Oval.

The WinnMed Auxiliary recently awarded scholarships to nine local students pursuing health care professions. Scholarship recipients and their field of study were:

• Luke Stock, Decorah, University of Iowa, Masters in Public Health-Epidemiology

• Mattison Duehr, Waukon, Concordia University-Wisconsin, Masters in Occupational Therapy

• Emily Womeldorf, Decorah, NICC, Radiologic Technology

• Annika Lensch, Decorah, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Medical Laboratory Scientist

• Hailey Riehle, Spillville, NICC, RN degree

• Brayden Krivachek, Decorah, Des Moines University, Physician Assistant

• Brinley Krivachek, Decorah, Allen College, BSN

• Ellie Kuennen, Decorah, Mercy College, BSN

• Hannah Teslow, Waukon, Allen College, BSN

The WinnMed Auxiliary offers their annual Health Career Scholarship to residents of Winneshiek County, WinnMed employees, or dependents of WinnMed employees pursuing a health care profession.

Students awarded Alliant Energy Innovation scholarships

Twenty-five Iowa and Wisconsin high school seniors received $1,000 Innovation Scholarships for higher education expenses from Alliant Energy. Ryan Kolsrud of Waukon High School was a local schol-

arship recipient. Those awarded scholarships demonstrated leadership through community service, as well as academic achievement through exceptional grade point averages and test scores.

mont for the Class 2A regional semifinal. The Waukon squad tallied a 453 to finish eighth.

Mabel-Canton

After starting last week with an impressive 18-2 win over Schaeffer Academy, the Mabel-Canton softball team had some struggles on the field. The Cougars dropped Tuesday’s home game to Spring Grove 6-3, then fell to Southland in a double header 2-1 and 12-2.

The Cougar baseball team had a busy week of eight games going 2-6. Last week opened at home with a 4-3 win over Spring Grove Tuesday. It was a close 9-7 loss to Hayfield at home Wednesday. Thursday saw Mabel-Canton get shut out 10-0 at Lyle/Pacelli. Southland bested the Cougars in Friday’s doubleheader 13-2 and 9-4. Saturday it was a split doubleheader against Glenville-Emmons/ Alden-Conger with the Cougars winning 6-1 before falling 4-3.

Spring Grove

It was up and down last week for the Spring Grove softball team which went 1-2. The Lions fell to Lewiston-Altura on the road 8-0 Monday, May 6, but rebounded to defeat Mabel-Canton 6-3 Tuesday. The week ended with an 8-1 loss to Houston.

The Lions baseball team went 2-1 last week on the diamond including Monday’s (May 6) 12-3 home win over Lewiston-Altura. Tuesday was a close finish with neighboring Mabel-Canton with the home Cougars winning 4-3. Spring Grove came away with an 8-1 win over Houston at home Friday.

Thursday to finish

the 100-meter

Friday, the Indian girls’ golf team were on the links at Pleasant Valley Sports Club in Cler-

Saturday, the Caledonia/ Spring Grove track and field teams competed in the Three Rivers Conference meet with the boys’ squad winning seven events and finishing fourth in the team race. The girls took home 10th

Coming up in varsity sports

May 14 – SW/TV b golf at districts (Mason City), 10 a.m.; Dec g ten vs. Dike-New Hartford team regional final (Luther), 1 p.m.; M-C bb/sb at GMLOL, 4:30 p.m.; SG bb/sb at Lyle-Pacelli, 4:30 p.m.

May 15 – Dec g golf at regionals (Manchester), 10 a.m.; Dec b ten vs. Aplington-Parkersburg (substate final), 4 p.m.

May 16 – Kee bb at Riceville, 4 p.m.; M-C bb/sb vs. Houston, 4:30 p.m.; SG bb/sb vs. Schaeffer Academy, 4:30 p.m.

May 17 – M-C sb vs. Lewiston-Altura, 4:30 p.m.; SG bb/sb vs. Glenville-Emmons/AldenConger, 4:30 p.m.; Dec g soc at Western Dubuque (regional), 6 p.m. May 16-18 – Dec/SW/TV/W/Kee g/b tr at state (Des Moines) May 18 – Dec g ten at individual/doubles state (Waterloo), 9 a.m. May 20 – Dec bb at Kee, 5 p.m.; Dec b soc vs. TBA in substate semifinal (TBA), 7 p.m.; TV sb vs. Crestwood, 5:30 p.m.

Annaleissa Arnold preps to send the shot put through the air Thursday. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

Eric Greve races his way down the track in

dash

fourth. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

Join the team at Heritage Farm!

Chauffeur Driver/ Personal Assistant Needed

FARM ASSISTANT

Full-time, $17/hour

This year-round position supports Seed Savers Exchange through onsite seed production of open-pollinated, heirloom varieties. Responsibilities include assisting with field preparation and maintenance, plant propagation and transplanting, and seed harvesting and processing, as well as seed packaging and order fulfillment in the winter months. VISIT SEEDSAVERS.ORG/JOBS FOR MORE DETAILS AND OPEN POSITIONS!

To apply, please email a cover letter, résumé, and the contact information for three references to jobs@seedsavers.org

Please include the name of the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email.

You may also contact Peggy Miller at 563.387.5653. Seed Savers Exchange is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Responsibilities include maintaining a personal and professional schedule, coordinating meetings and events. Must be reliable and arrive at appointments on time. The ideal candidate must have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills and must be incredibly organized with a strong work ethic. Send resume and cover letter to (Lsummers909@ gmail.com ) for details.

The City of Decorah Wastewater Treatment Plant is currently accepting applications for Seasonal Laborer This is a temporary (seasonal) position during the 2024 summer season. Duties include: mowing, painting, and assisting with equipment maintenance. Valid driver’s license required. Position subject to background check and MVR check.

• TRIO Administrative Coordinator: This individual will handle the logistics of student worker supervision in the TRIO office, provide administrative support, and front desk management.

Applications and job description are available at the Decorah City Hall or www.decorahia.org, Return applications to PO Box 138, Decorah or mohara@ decorah.iowa.gov

• Campus Responder: provide for the safety of people and property on the Luther campus. Patrol of building and grounds on foot or by vehicle to deter and detect unwanted activities

Applications accepted until positions are filled.

EEO/AA Employer, M/F disabled and Veteran. 18-4-PJ-12

For more information, or to apply, visit www.luther.edu/offices/hr/careers

team. Responsibilities would include 5-12 small group instruction, direct 5th grade band, 6th grade band, and Middle School jazz band. Additionally, the individual would assist with 7th and 8th grade band, high school concert band, sectionals, co-direct marching band, and summer lessons.

VERTICAL ALIGNMENT & COLLABORATIVE TEACHING

• Collaborate with K-12 music PLC and associate 5-12 Band instructors.

• Establish clear communication channels and opportunities for collaboration with colleagues to facilitate a cohesive and integrated approach to music education.

• Participate in professional development activities and workshops to stay informed about best practices in music education and instructional strategies.

CHARISMATIC RECRUITMENT & RETENTION

• Develop and implement recruitment strategies to attract new students to the 5th grade band program

• Cultivate positive relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and community members to promote enthusiasm and support for the band program.

• In collaboration with colleagues, realize and implement retention initiatives to engage and retain students in the band program.

INSTRUCTION & CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT

• Develop and implement a comprehensive and sequential instrumental music curriculum aligned with state standards and PLC team goals.

• Plan and conduct engaging rehearsals, lessons, and performances that cater to the diverse needs and skill levels of students.

• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and safe learning environment where students feel encouraged.

The South Winneshiek CSD has the following openings for the 2024-2025 school year: 20-2-J-12 Certified High School Business Teacher Part-Time Dishwasher/ Kitchen Helper at Elementary/Middle School in Ossian Monday-Friday, 5 hrs. per day Apply at www.IowaWORKS.gov Open until filled. Trinity Lutheran Church is seeking a college student

Preschool? Long Term Sub for the 2024-2025 school year Contact

19-8-JP-12

The City of Decorah Wastewater Treatment Plant is currently accepting applications for Seasonal Laborer

This is a temporary (seasonal) position during the 2024 summer season. Duties include: mowing, painting, and assisting with equipment maintenance.

Valid driver’s license required.

Position subject to background check and MVR check.

Applications and job description are available at the Decorah City Hall or www.decorahia.org, Return applications to PO Box 138, Decorah or mohara@ decorah.iowa.gov

Applications accepted until positions are filled.

EEO/AA Employer, M/F disabled and Veteran.

18-4-PJ-12

The City of Decorah Street Department is currently accepting applications for a Seasonal Street Department Worker

AND FOUND

This is a temporary (seasonal) position during the 2024 summer season. Knowledge of equipment operation/ maintenance, tree maintenance, and any other knowledge required in the respective job description preferred. Valid driver’s license required. Position subject to background check and MVR check. Applications and job description are available at the Decorah Street Department Office, www.decorahia.org, or by calling 563-382-2157.

Applications accepted until positions are filled.

18-4-PJ-12

EEO/AA Employer, M/F disabled and Veteran.

The City of Decorah Street Department is currently accepting applications for a Seasonal Street Department Worker These are temporary (seasonal) positions during the 2024 summer season. Knowledge of equipment operation/ maintenance, tree maintenance, and any other knowledge required in the respective job description preferred. Valid driver’s license required. Position subject to background check and MVR check. Applications and job description are available at the Decorah Street Department Office, www.decorahia.org, or by calling 563-382-2157.

Applications accepted until positions are filled.

18-4-PJ-12

EEO/AA Employer, M/F disabled and Veteran.

Wanted: Brooder house, 6’x8’ or 8’x10’ in good condition. 563-4194358. 21-2-JP-pd-5

Millers

Schools for the 2024-2025 School Year: String Instrument Lesson Teacher

The Decorah School District is seeking a passionate and skilled stringed instrument lesson teacher to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing individual and small group lessons to students in grades 5-12. This position offers up to 15 hours per week, with a schedule currently falling between the hours of 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday and Thursday, and 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM on Tuesdays and Fridays. On Wednesdays, the schedule is from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Pay: $22/hour

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct individual and small group lessons for students in grades 5-12.

• Provide technical instruction tailored to the skill level of each student.

• Offer constructive feedback on students’ musical performance and technique.

Luther College commencement is Sunday

Christine Cruzvergara, chief education strategy officer at Handshake, will give the 2024 commencement address at 9 a.m. Sunday, May 19, at Luther College’s Carlson Stadium. Cruzvergara leads Handshake’s partnerships with the higher education community, which includes more than 15 million students from more than 1,500 higher institutions, to connect students with career and internship opportunities.

Cruzvergara is recognized as an agent of change and an expert on strategies that create equitable student career success outcomes. Handshake connects students enrolled in fouryear institutions, community colleges and bootcamps with more than 900,000 employers. Employers on the site include Fortune 500 Companies, public school districts, healthcare systems and nonprofit organizations. No tickets are required for the outdoor commencement ceremony, which will be livestreamed. More information is available at commencement. luther.edu.

• Foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment conducive to musical growth.

• Collaborate with classroom teachers and music department staff to support students! overall musical development.

• Prepare students for performances, recitals, and competitions as appropriate.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated proficiency on a stringed instrument (e.g., violin, viola, cello, double bass).

• Previous teaching experience • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Send letter of application and resume to Principal Justin Albers, 405 Winnebago Street, Decorah, IA 52101, by end of the day on May 20, 2024, or open until position is filled. The Decorah Community School District is an EEO/AA employer. 20-2-JP-12

20-2-JP-x-9

Christine Cruzvergara

‘Laura’s Sack Lunch’ benefit

The Winneshiek County Cattlemen provided a drive-thru meal in the parking lot at Burr Oak Lutheran Church Sunday, May 5. Ribeye steak sandwiches and 1/3-pound cheeseburger

NEICAC recognizes EARL drivers for

12 consecutive

accident-free months

County Beef Princess Keira Myers all smiles and greeting everyone at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Sack Lunch fundraiser. (Driftless Multimedia photos by Roz Weis)

Veteran essays

Invasion. After a colorful career, the U.S. Army Engineer retired in 1969 with the rank of Major General.

Local presentation May 20 Jorgensen is scheduled to present a program about her donation, highlighting several colorful stories at the monthly meeting of the Genealogy Association, scheduled Monday, May

20, at 7 p.m. at the Decorah Senior Citizens Hospitality Center at 806 River Street in Decorah. Featured in Jorgensen’s talk will be interviews shared from late World War II veterans including: Weston Noble, Bob Hunt, Denton Marsh, Rev. George Strum, all of Decorah; Harry Halverson of Ridgeway; and Spillville’s Clarence C. Haug. Among the more vivid essays

EARL Public Transit, operated by non-profit Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation (NEICAC), recently recognized several driver/operators who have successfully driven 12 consecutive months without an accident.

Easy, Accessible, Reliable and Life Changing (EARL) Public Transit is the Region 1 transportation provider under the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT), serving Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard and Winneshiek counties. At the end of a 12 consecutive month period without an accident, driver/operators are eligible for an incentive award.

Congratulates the following: Gary Brown and Don Thies

(Allamakee County); Mark Follon and Karl Knospe (Clayton County); Eric Anderson, Mac Duff, Ron Parmley, Dale Sachtschale, Marilyn Schutte and Richard Simpson (Fayette County); Melissa Foley, Ron Hyberger and Gerard O’Rourke (Howard County); and Roger Fjelstul, Karla Gossling, Laurie Ludeking, Larry McCabe, Gary Sacquitne and Daryl Treangen (Winneshiek County).

EARL services are open to the public, prioritizing safe, reliable and quality services.

EARL Public Transit vehicles are wheelchair accessible and available to provide rides for work, appointments, shopping, running errands and more.

Fishing Clinic at Lake Meyer June 8, register by May 31

Winneshiek County Conservation will host the annual Stan Shevik Family Fishing Clinic

Saturday, June 8, at Lake Meyer Park and Campground.

The free clinic is open to all ages and is a great opportunity to introduce new anglers to fishing. Sessions will include fish identification with live fish, casting practice and more. Registered youth will be eligible for a door prize.

Sign-in will begin at 8:30 a.m., and clinic sessions will run from 9-11 a.m. Door prize drawings for youth and lunch for the whole family will follow the clinic. Fishing poles, bait and assistance from Winneshiek County Conservation staff will be available from 12-1 p.m.

Registration is required by May 31 at www.winneshiekwild.com. Youth under age

continued from front featured in the collection are memories from a member of the first crew ship to cross the ocean from New York to Ireland during World War II, stories from a torpedoman aboard a submarine in the dark waters of the South Pacific, personal reflections from a U.S. Navy Chaplain, and training camp/ boot camp reflections.

Jorgensen’s gift to the Genealogy Association holds a special spot in an ever-expanding collection housed in the Decorah headquarters.

Decorah Genealogy’s Midge Kjome, said, “We have boxes and boxes of historic treasures and welcome more.”

seven must be accompanied by an adult throughout the clinic. This is a family fishing clinic, and all adults are encouraged to stay during the event.

The clinic is held in memory and honor of Stan Shevik, formerly of Spillville, and his lifelong passion for fishing and love of Lake Meyer. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will be assisting with the clinic.

The old Burr Oak Mercantile (exterior) will be renovated as a new welcome center for the museum.

South Winneshiek FFA wins Iowa FFA Ag Biotechnology Event

South Winneshiek FFA Champion Team at the annual Iowa FFA Biotechnology Career Development Event. Team members include (l-r): Kelsey Timp, Autumn Schmitt, Katrina Hageman and Kendric Langreck. (submitted)

The South Winneshiek FFA Chapter from Calmar was named the Champion Team in the annual Iowa FFA Biotechnology Career Development Event held at Iowa State University April 15. Members of the first-place team included: Katrina Hageman, Kelsey Timp, Autumn Schmitt and Kendric Langreck. Their agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor is South Winneshiek FFA’s Kelsey Timp, who was also recently crowned Winneshiek County Dairy Princess, was

named High Individual Overall in the competition. Also named in the top 10 individuals in the event were Autumn Schmitt, also of South Winneshiek FFA, and Kendra Gibbs, Little Switzerland FFA, Waukon. The Little Switzerland FFA was ranked in the top 10 teams of the event. FFA teams from 62 chapters and 237 individuals partici-

pated in this year’s Career Development Event which is designed to provide the student an opportunity to display their agricultural knowledge and

Employer of Choice

As we move forward, may we be inspired by your

future for our community. Thank you for everything you have given, and may your legacy live on through the positive changes we create together.

RETIREES Pictured (l-r): Loren Kimber (39 years), Dean Thompson (21 years), Joann Heeren (28 years and 11 months), Marie Gremm (11 years), and Richard Bakken (44 years).