January 9, 2025 by Decorah Leader

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Vol. 160, Issue 2 www.decorahleader.com

Decorah, Iowa 52101 email: editor@decorahleader.com

One Section phone: 563-382-4221

Price $1.50

fax: 563-382-5949

Whittle wins runoff, Drop in farmland value ends 5-year trend city council seat BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR Decorah voters have selected Cody Whittle to serve as the newest member of the Decorah City Council, according to unofﬁcial election results released Tuesday night. Whittle earned 857 votes for approximately 55.6 percent support at the polls, according to initial tallies, defeating fellow candidate Kent Klocke, who earned 682 for about 44.3 percent of the vote. A total of 1,541 ballots were cast during this week’s runoff election — making for almost 25 percent turnout among Decorah’s eligible voters, according to the Winneshiek County Auditor’s Ofﬁce. “I’m grateful for the support of the community, and I look forward to doing my best to

Cody Whittle give back the support and do right by the town of Decorah,” Whittle said after election results were posted Tuesday night in the rotunda of the county courthouse.

Whittle continued on page 12

Iowa farmland values are decreasing — ending a five-year growth trend, and at least one Iowa State University educator believes the decreasing valuation could be the start of a new downward pattern. The annual Iowa State University Land Value Survey found farmland values decreased an average of 3.1 percent in 2024 — with decreases ranging from $369 to $11,467 per acre. Information from ISU said the decrease nearly erases a 3.7 percent increase from 2023. The nominal value of an acre of farmland this year fell from last year’s record high, according to the survey, but is still higher than the nominal value in 2022. Falling commodity prices, persistently-high interest rates and elevated input costs were found to be the main factors affecting profit margins and placed increasing downward pressure on land values across the state, said Rabail Chandio, an assistant professor at ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Chandio said, by comparison, the increase in Iowa farmland values in 2023 was driven by a combination of favorable factors. “One significant cause was the limited supply of available farmland, which naturally increased competition among buyers,” Chandio said. “This scarcity was coupled with stronger-than-expected crop yields.” Despite drought conditions, which ended in the summer of 2024, Iowa’s average corn yield of 200 bushels per acre and a soybean yield of 58 bushels per acre outperformed expectations, Chandio said — boosting farm income and overall market optimism in 2023.

Additionally, farmland remained a sought-after investment in 2023, Chandio said, particularly for those looking to hedge against economic uncertainty, with investor demand providing further upward pressure on land values. But, just one year later, in 2024, plummeting corn and soybean prices mixed with a shortage of available farmland and elevated input costs brought the value of farmland down. “Falling commodity prices,

which were still high at an absolute level and had supported higher incomes in prior years, became a signiﬁcant downward pressure,” Chandio said. “For example, USDA forecasted season-average corn and soybean prices at $4.10 per bushel and $10.20 per bushel, respectively— marking declines of 10 percent and 18 percent from the previous year — squeezing farm proﬁtability.” That decrease brings the markets down to nearly-pre-pan-

demic prices, but Chandio said expenses haven’t fallen at the same rate. “Elevated input costs — including fertilizers, machinery and fuel — further tightened farmers’ proﬁt margins, making land investments less attractive,” the professor said. “Although some areas saw slight increases due to speciﬁc

Farmland values continued on page 11

VisitIUC us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com Decorah seeks decision ahead of MEU vote Sheriff’s deputy charged Alliant says city’s assertions are unfounded after putting personal BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR The city of Decorah has asked the Iowa Utilities Commission to prohibit Alliant Energy from conducting community outreach efforts in Decorah without approval from the commission. The petition also seeks clariﬁcation on the scope of previous orders the commission issued to the company. The city ﬁled its request a little more than two months before voters will be asked to decide if the city should be authorized to municipalize its electrical service. Decorah residents will head to the polls on March 4 to voice their opinion on the city’s proposal. A similar question was posed to local voters in 2018 and failed by three votes. The city’s recent petition alleges inaccurate information provided at that time by Interstate Power and Light Company — the division of Alliant Energy which services Iowa — may have affected the outcome of the referendum. “Now that the question of

establishing a municipal electric utility in Decorah is again on the ballot in the community, it is critical that IPL not be allowed to make a fresh round of misrepresentations in advance of the election,” the city’s petition said. Brad Bauer, director of operational resources with Alliant Energy, said the company feels the comments and assertions in the city’s petition are unfounded, adding Alliant Energy is in full compliance with orders from the Iowa Utilities Commission. “Rather than spending taxpayer dollars on unrelated ﬁlings and matters, we urge the city council to focus on the facts and provide residents with accurate information about the full costs associated with establishing a city-run energy system,” Bauer said. Alliant has pursued multiple rate increases since the 2018 referendum, and city ofﬁcials previously indicated they aim to explore alternatives for providing electricity to Decorah residents, if Alliant’s rates become cost prohibitive for locals.

Alliant’s average residential rate in 2023 was higher than all but two of Iowa’s 136 municipal electric utilities, according to information compiled by the Clean Energy Districts of Iowa — a group which docket ﬁlings indicate the city of Decorah previously joined. The Clean Energy Districts of Iowa estimated, if an average household serviced by Alliant had hypothetically purchased its electricity from a municipal utility in New Hampton or Cedar Falls, the rate would have been at least 42 percent less — or about $670. However, the organization also noted Alliant’s industrial electric rates for 2023 were within the lowest third out of all the state’s electrical utilities. City ofﬁcials said, while the upcoming election might result in the establishment of a local MEU, the city council would not be required to take further steps if the concept proves unfeasible at any point. Bauer indicated a number of other cities have done just that. “When it comes to municipalizing, few communities across the U.S. have started down this

path in the last decade,” Bauer said. “Similar to Decorah, the communities initially cited local control and lower costs as the drivers. However, upon further evaluation, the communities realized the cost to acquire the local electric system would place an unnecessary burden on taxpayers – which deterred them from municipalizing.” Information from the city indicates the Iowa Utilities Commission will help determine the cost of purchasing Alliant’s infrastructure if voters approve the March 4 referendum. Alliant questions city’s info, city questions Alliant’s data The Decorah City Council recently approved a master list of information to be distributed to residents ahead of the March 4 vote via ﬂiers, mailers and other materials — the city’s sustainability commission was authorized to spend up to $15,000 on the effort. Alliant’s legal

MEU continued on page 6

purchases on ofﬁce account

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR An investigation into possible criminal misconduct involving a Winneshiek County Sheriff’s deputy has resulted in charges. A statement from the sheriff’s office said 33-year-old Makenz Allen Kriener of Fort Atkinson was charged with sales tax evasion — a class D felony — and fifth-degree theft — a simple misdemeanor. The sheriff’s statement said an immediate internal investigation began after law enforcement learned of the allegations — the sheriff’s office also said assistance from the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation was requested, due to the nature of the investigation. Criminal complaints filed against the deputy said Kriener used a tax-exempt account associated with the sheriff’s office to make personal purchases — totaling less than $300 — from Norby’s Farm Fleet in Decorah. The complaint went on to

Makenz Allen Kriener say members of the Iowa DCI interviewed Kriener, and the 33-year-old “admitted the use of the items is on a mostly personal basis and (he) had stored the items at his residence.” Court documents indicate Kriener has been given a court date of Jan. 13. Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx was unable to conﬁrm Kriener’s employment status, citing legal restrictions under Iowa Code.

PHOTOS

BETTER HEARING for 2025 Begins HERE

Indoor activity abounds during annual New Year’s Eve Bash

The sights and sounds of yearend fun ﬁlled the Regents Center on Luther College’s campus last week. The Decorah Parks and Recreation Department hosted the 27th annual New Year’s Eve Bash there the night of Dec. 31, and the public was able to use the facility’s indoor basketball courts, tennis courts, track, turf room, and swimming pool. Children and adults enjoyed a variety of athletic activities ahead of the New Year. Volunteers also offered visitors concessions and a pair of bounce houses during the celebration.

Let us help you with you r New YEAR Resolution!

COMPLIMENTARY HEARING EXAMS Call (563) 275-7448 or Book Your Appointment Online!

Calvin Trepp

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Over 35 years in the Hearing Industry!

911 S. Mill St., Suite 3 Decorah, IA 52101

www.NorthIowaHea

ring.com

LEFT- Young Miles Kragness of Calmar stretched toward the hoop during the New Year’s Eve Bash. (Photos by Seth Boyes)

RIGHT- Jon Kullen smiles as his children Willow and Wallace pedal across the indoor courts of the Regents Center in Decorah during the Decorah Parks and Recreation’s 27th annual New Year’s Eve Bash.

RIGHT- Putnam Dibble of Decorah returned a serve on the indoor tennis courts during the 27th annual New Year’s Eve Bash. Various activities took place inside the Regents Center on Luther College’s campus that night, as the public enjoyed the building’s indoor tennis courts, basketball courts, track and pool.

LEFT- A lively game of soccer took place on New Year’s Eve inside the turf room at Luther College’s Regents Center. A number of the building’s facilities were made available to the public that night during the Decorah Parks and Recreation Department’s 27th annual New Year’s Eve Bash.

Oneota Valley Community Orchestra goes intergalactic Oneota Valley Community Orchestra held an out-of-this-world performance Sunday, January 5, at Decorah High School as they tackled songs from big screen science ﬁction movies including “E.T. the Extraterrestrial,” “Alien,” “Apollo 13,” “Star Wars” and “Star Trek.” Clockwise from top: “Princess Leia” Anastasia Rocksvold’s only hope is her stormtrooper son, Russel Rocksvold; violinists Anna Hilfer and Gabriel Hiner smile for the camera before the performance; “Captain” Tim Borseth and daughter, “engineer” Ariana Borseth, channel their inner Star Trek ofﬁcers. (Photos by Denise Lana)

DOWNTOWN DECORAH Betterment Association

DOWNTOWN

FLOWER BASKET

BUILDER

MAINTAINER

SPONSOR

SUPPORTER

A&J Petersburg Agency

Bruening Rock Products

A&J Petersburg Agency

Koreana

Decorah Hatchery

Agora Arts

Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson

Decorah Leader

Blue Heron Knittery

Anderson Law Office

LAWN CHAIR NIGHT

Decorah Bank & Trust

The Getup

Lorraine Borowski

Bruening Rock Products

SUPPORTER

Oneota Community Co-op

Larry & Diane Grimstad

Cardboard Robot

Copyland

Ace Kitchen Place

Mabe's Pizza

Hacker, Nelson & Co., P.C.

Casper Plumbing & Heating

Ed & Joyce Epperly

A&J Petersburg Agency

Mike Harman

Copyland

Marjori Wharton

Bruening Rock Products

Harman Realty

DOWNTOWN PROMOTER Decorah Bank & Trust Decorah Pride Decorah Public Library Hotel Winneshiek Inspire(d) Media Luther College WinnMed

Decorah Bicycles

Mike & Pat Fitzgerald

Decorah Bank & Trust

Magpie Cafe & Coffeehouse

Erdman Engineering, P.C.

Larry & Diane Grimstad

Decorah Hatchery

Northeast Security Bank

Friest & Associates Realtors

Gundersen Health System

Decorah Pride

Seed Savers Exchange Sogo Snacks West Music West Side Dental Winneshiek County Development & Tourism

Helms Funeral Homes J. Tupy's on Water Street LA Communications Margaret's Boutique The Perfect Edge Pulpit Rock Brewing Rendered Unique

A note of

THANKS from the DDBA

Thank you to all the individuals and businesses who supported the efforts of the Downtown Decorah Betterment Association in 2024. From the Lawn Chair Night series, to the lovely flowers that adorn our downtown, to the rooftop lighting program, we couldn't do it without you!

Don & Lynne Rilling Rubaiyat Restaurant Serenity Fitness Cindy Simpson Thrivent Financial Vesterheim Museum Viking Realtors Winneshiek Master Gardeners

Hacker, Nelson & Co., P.C. Holiday Pines Philip & Sarah Iversen J. Tupy's on Water Street Marcia McKelvey Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson Oneota Community Co-op Pulpit Rock Brewing Rendered Unique

Decorah Public Library Mike & Pat Fitzgerald The Getup Gundersen Health System Hacker, Nelson & Co., P.C. Harman Realty Inspire(d) Media KL Design Luther College Mabe's Pizza

Serenity Fitness Kathleen M. Stokker Town & Country Garden Club Decorah Bank & Trust

The Miculinich Family Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson Oneota Community Coop Salu Sauna + Wellness Spa

ROOFTOP LIGHTS Decorah Bank & Trust Erdman Engineering, P.C. Harman Realty Mike & Sandy Harman

DOWNTOWN

Sogo Snacks

KIOSKS

Marjorie Wharton

West Music

Decorah Bank & Trust

Winneshiek Master

Winneshiek County

Gundersen Health System

Development & Tourism

Marcia McKelvey

Vesterheim Museum

Gardeners

FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION, CALL 563-382-3990 OR VISIT: downtowndecorahbetterment.com

NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Smock appointed new county treasurer in 4-1 supervisors’ vote BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Tim Smock of Decorah was appointed the new Winneshiek County Treasurer during the board of supervisors’ Monday morning meeting, but the agenda item didn’t pass without some dissent. Supervisor Steve Kelsay said he reviewed the minutes from the Dec. 9 and 16 supervisors meetings, and he believed the minutes were inaccurate in saying there was a consensus among the supervisors to appoint a candidate as county treasurer without conducting an interview process. “The minutes said that the majority had a consensus — not that everyone did,” Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines replied. Kelsay claimed that in an audio recording of the Dec. 9 meeting, fellow Supervisor Mark Vick had said the supervisors would conduct interviews on Dec. 16, which didn’t happen. “I believe this is disingenuous by making a staff decision for an elected ofﬁce rather than putting it out for a regular interview situation when we had candidates apply — period,” Kelsay said. “So, I’m against this appointment for those reasons.” Supervisors Chair Dan Langreck asked Steines whether it was still possible to hold interviews for the position as of Monday’s meeting. Steines explained the county’s published public notice had speciﬁed the appointment would be made

Tim Smock was appointed the new Winneshiek County Treasurer during Monday’s Winneshiek County Supervisors meeting. Smock has been with the county treasurer’s office since 2018 and served as a deputy county treasurer under Winneshiek County Treasurer Brenda Kreitzer, who announced in November she planned to retire as of Jan. 3. (Photo by Zach Jensen) during Monday’s meeting, and he said the county attorney would need to be consulted if the board wanted to go in a different route. Smock has been with the county treasurer’s office since 2018 and served as a deputy treasurer under former Winneshiek County Treasurer Brenda Kreitzer, who retired from the position this month. Supervisor Mark Faldet said Smock had plenty of experience and was the more-qualified choice of the two candidates who applied for the position. Langreck agreed with Faldet, but the chair noted he would have liked to have

held interviews for the position. “I think we had two candidates, and it would be disingenuous to (interview) also, because one was so much more highly qualified,” Supervisor Shirley Vermace said. During a December discussion about how to fill the treasurer’s position, Vermace suggested appointing an experienced individual already employed in the treasurer’s office to the position, while Kelsay suggested considering other candidates, saying the department would benefit from “a fresh set of eyes.” Supervisors Faldet, Vermace,

Langreck and Vick voted in favor of appointing Smock to the position of county treasurer, while Kelsay voted against the appointment. In other business: • Supervisor Dan Langreck was unanimously approved by his fellow supervisors to again serve as the board’s chair in 2025. Supervisor Mark Vick was approved in a 3-2 vote to continue as the board’s vicechair. Supervisor Mark Faldet nominated Supervisor Shirley Vermace to be vice-chair. • The county’s FY25-26 valuation report was unanimously

approved by the supervisors. The report showed a 0.93 percent increase in countywide valuation in FY25 and a 3.33 percent increase in countywide valuation in FY26. • Winneshiek County Engineer Michael Kueny reported the county has become a ﬁnalist for a Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity grant through the Iowa Department of Transportation to resurface County Road W14 south of Fort Atkinson. The total cost of the project is projected to be about $2.5 million, and an estimated 72 percent of that cost could be covered by the grant. The county could potentially use its own Farm To Market funds to provide the local matching funds required for the grant. The W14 project is slated to take place in 2028. • The supervisors unanimously approved a motion to renew the county’s Bird Friendly Iowa resolution. Bird Friendly Iowa is a statewide conservation and outreach program which recognizes Iowa communities for protecting bird habitat, reducing threats to birds and educating people on birding and conservation. • The supervisors unanimously approved The Decorah Leader and Calmar Courier as the county’s ofﬁcial newspapers for 2025. • Doug Groux was approved to continue as the county’s weed commissioner. • The supervisors unanimously approved the county’s holiday schedule and reimbursement rates for mileage, meals

Bachmurski murder trial back on for March BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR The trial of a former Decorah man accused of murdering a teenage girl in 2017 will take place as previously scheduled, after he reasserted his right to a speedy trial in a court filing late last month. James David Bachmurski faces a charge of second-degree murder for the death of 15-year-old Jade Colvin, whom investigators believe was at Bachmurski’s rural home south of Decorah in March of 2017. The 65-year-old filed a motion in September, invoking his right to be tried within 90 days of the formal charges, and a trial was scheduled for March 19, 2025. However, his defense attorney waived that right in November, before seeking a subpoena for information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding a possible sighting of Colvin in August of 2021 in Harvey, Illinois — about 240 miles from Decorah. Bachmurski’s attorney demanded in a Dec. 24 filing that his client again be granted a speedy trial, and a judge agreed to the demand three days later, saying the trial would be heard on March 19 as previously planned. Colvin was reported missing to the Des Moines Police Department on June 10, 2016, and

James David Bachmurski

Jade Colvin

she was last known to have contacted her family on March 23, 2017, according to information from the U.S. Justice Department’s National Missing and Unidentified Persons System. The U.S. Marshals 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 — 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 the the Winneshiek Coun-

ty 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. 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 earlier this year 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 al-

legedly “used some of his own money to facilitate Jade Colvin being brought to his residence in March of 2017.” Bachmurski had considered contacting law enforcement while Colvin was at his home, according to the 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.” A sheriff’s deputy had previously investigated a separate case involving Bachmurski approximately ﬁve years earlier, after claims the then 54-yearold 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. The teenage Colvin had planned to contact friends after arriving in Iowa in 2017, according to court documents. But her phone was said to have

District turns to grants to fund propane-powered buses BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER Joining other school districts across the country, the Decorah Community School District plans to apply for grants to replace its diesel-burning school buses through a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program. Meeting in special session Monday afternoon, school board members authorized District Transportation Director Christopher Pronschinske

to submit an application for funding from the EPA’s Clean School Bus Rebate Program. The deadline to apply for the grant funds is Jan. 9. The board voted last month to purchase the district’s ﬁrst propane-powered bus. The new bus will be added to the district’s current 40-bus diesel-powered ﬂeet. Potential funding from the Clean School Bus Rebate Program cannot be used for the bus which was approved in December, but those dollars could be

used for any additional clean-fuel buses the school may purchase in the future. Buses being considered for replacement must be diesel-powered 2010 models or older in order to be eligible for the EPA funds. Buses being considered for the funding are expected to be scrapped if successful in their application. Pronschinske said he has identiﬁed one bus for replacement. He noted the EPA funding is not guaranteed but, if approved, the Decorah District could re-

ceive $25,000 to be put toward the purchase of a propane bus. Board members debated the purchase of a propane bus during previous meetings, and members unanimously approved the purchase in December after citing factors such as a reduction in maintenance, decreased idling time for buses, fuel reduction and faster warmup time when compared with the aging diesel models. The next school board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13.

reception issues, and Bachmurski claimed he allowed Colvin to use his phone. “The messages sent by Jade Colvin from the defendant’s cell phone during the early morning hours of March 30, 2017, were the last messages ever known to be received by any person,” a criminal complaint said. The complaint said Bachmurski’s son saw Colvin’s suitcase and other property at the farmhouse months after Colvin was last seen, and the complaint went on to say Bachmurski himself “lied and told others that Jade Colvin had gone somewhere after her last text, while the investigation showed she was no longer alive.” A sheriff’s deputy discovered a loaded .223 caliber Stevens riﬂe in a closet at Bachmurski’s home during a welfare/ probation check in early January of 2018 — Bachmurski was charged with possession of a ﬁrearm by a felon three days later. His attorney in that case lost contact with Bachmurski in early 2019 and told the court Bachmurski had sold his Decorah home and was not responding to calls or text messages. The 65-year-old was listed as

and certain medical appointments. • Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines reported on several departmental budgets for the new fiscal year, including those of Winneshiek County Development, the sanitary landfill, and recycling as well as health and human services. The Department of Health and Human Services budget is projected to change the most compared to last year, due to its future move to the county’s new Community Services Building. The department’s expenses are expected to decrease significantly following the move. • Colinne McCann and Ellie Shelton of Helping Services for Youth and Families made a presentation, and asked the supervisors to proclaim January 2025 as National Mentoring Month. Carson Eggland, executive director of Helping Services for Youth and Families, presented the agency’s funding request for Fiscal Year 2025-26. The requested amount of $10,000 has remained the same each year for the last decade. • Josh Dansdill of Northeast Iowa Resource Conservation and Development made a $2,000 budget request for the Upper Iowa River Watershed Alliance to help pay for continued water testing of the Upper Iowa River waterhsed, which the organization has been doing for several years. The next meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held at 9:30 a.m., Monday, Jan. 13, at the courthouse annex.

residing in Swainsboro, Georgia, in February of 2021 — he 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 and was later served a warrant in the murder case on Aug. 12 — more than seven years after Jade Colvin disappeared. Bachmurski remains in custody at the Winneshiek County Jail.

Correction - Jan. 2, 2025 An article in the Jan. 2 edition of the Decorah Leader entitled “Klimesh, Bergan look forward to 2025 legislative session” mistakenly stated Iowa State Sen. Mike Klimesh (R-Spillville) had served as a state representative in the Iowa House prior to being elected as Iowa’s District 32 state senator. Klimesh has never been an Iowa state representative. The staff of the Decorah Leader apologizes and regrets the error.

GARAGE DOORS

REPAIRS • SALES INSTALLATION Residential & Commercial

641-330-7629 Charles City, IA

OPINION

Apples, oranges, MEUs

Part 2: The Case for an MEU — Trust. I’m having trouble trusting Alliant Energy. The information presented in their recent ads and posted on their website is the same misinformation from 2018 when they spent six figures dividing our community on false pretenses. They appear to be up to the same antics again. So egregious were their lies that the Iowa Utilities Board called them out for it in their preceding rate case, commenting, “There was further information with regard to timing of rate cases and expected rate increases that were known prior to the municipalization vote. IPL’s management decided not to share, incorporate or update its messaging with Decorah residents. The lack of transparency and misrepresentation in the Decorah municipalization vote is of significant concern to the board.” All too well, I remember Alliant holding community meetings where they showed us a PowerPoint slide presentation that included a rate comparison between themselves and a potential MEU. They promised their rates would only rise a mere 6 percent over 10 years. Well, we all know that wasn’t true, as experienced by two double-digit rate hikes in just five years!

In addition to throwing out numbers without any basis, Alliant continues to peddle fear regarding the reliability of a MEU. Yet communities across Iowa that don’t rely on Alliant seem to manage to keep their lights on just fine. In fact, in most of the areas struck by the 2020 Derecho, including those served by Mid-American, local MEUs and Rural Electrical Cooperatives, were up and running faster than those served by Alliant Energy. But we don’t have to look outside Decorah to see that reliability is not synonymous with Alliant Energy. Decorah residents and businesses served by MiEnergy, including those in the business park, like Toppling Goliath, experience affordable and reliable power every day. Reliability is essential to any utility, as it would be for a Decorah MEU. There is every reason to believe that a Decorah MEU would have equal or better reliability than Alliant. It would have to, or the Iowa Utilities Commission would not consider a service area change. Let’s be clear: Alliant has a lot to lose if Decorah municipalizes. The company is out to protect its profits, plain and simple. I can’t blame them, as they are responsible for making

Decorah Leader

(USPS# 151-000) is published weekly by Enterprise Media Inc., 110 Washington Street, Suite 4, Decorah, IA 52101. Periodicals postage paid at Decorah, IA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Enterprise Media Inc., P.O. Box 350, Decorah, Iowa 52101-0350. Phone: 563-382-4221

News: editor@decorahleader.com Advertising: megan.warner@decorahleader.com Publisher: Christopher Hall Editor: Seth Boyes Subscription Rates ....................... One Year ...................... Six Months 521 zip codes ................................. $57.00 ..............................$35.00 Elsewhere. ...................................... $72.00 ..............................$44.00 Single copies $1.50, mailed $3.50. Official publication for Decorah and Winneshiek County, Iowa. Periodicals postage at Decorah, Iowa. Enterprise Media Inc. DEADLINE POLICY Decorah Leader display advertising: 12 Noon Monday. News, submissions: 12 Noon Tuesday.

Publisher reserves right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time.

money for their shareholders. If Decorah were to shed light on a better alternative, that’s not good for Alliant Energy. But, it might very well be good for Decorah. By voting yes on March 4, we will have the legal standing needed to access the necessary information to know if an MEU can offer us the same or better reliability as Alliant Energy at a more affordable rate. All while keeping our energy dollars local and putting them to work for us in our community as we choose. I trust the process for this to happen. Municipalization is a highly regulated and detailed process with plenty of opportunities for checks and balances. A yes vote on March 4 does not give the city a blank check to spend frivolously chasing a pipe dream, nor permission to switch your utility provider. It allows us to learn more and decide what we would like our next step to be. Any spending of excess capital that might be needed for the process would require another vote, and this time it would need a 60 percent majority. The ultimate decision on who controls the service territory of Decorah is up to the Iowa Utilities Commission and only after a thoroughly vetted business plan has been created. And if, at that time, the commission thought a Decorah MEU would be the best option, then the revenue generated by the utility would be used to purchase the infrastructure, and no tax dollars would be used to buy out Alliant. In addition to my trust in the process, I also trust my friends and neighbors. As electricity is a monopoly, I trust my community to know best how we want to invest in our energy dollars. I trust my colleagues on the council and our dedicated city employees, who work hard every day on behalf of all citizens of Decorah. We serve the people of Decorah; that is our only agenda. Every decision we make affects each of us and our families, along with all of our entire community. This is why I trust local decisions over those of an out-of-state, for-profit monopoly corporation. Emily Neal Councilperson At Large Decorah

I wish to add some extra context to Dan Baldwin’s letter in the Jan. 2 Leader, regarding his opposition to Decorah’s March 4 vote to authorize continued exploration of the feasibility of a Municipal Electric Utility. I appreciate Dan’s numbers and research, pointing out that the city property tax levy has risen by 41.94 percent vs. the US cumulative inflation rate during that time of 25.44 percent. The problem comes with the conclusions drawn by extending that difference into an expectation of a Decorah MEU Board’s (mis)behavior when setting rates. This is an apples-to-oranges comparison. Both are fruit, but not equivalent. Dan addressed three basic items: local taxes, investor-owned benefits for public services and sustainability. First, the numbers, as Dan said, then some observation. The simple answer about the increase in the local property tax levy by 41.9 percent is because total property assessed values have increased by that much. The state legislature sets the rules the county assessor must follow in establishing assessed values, taxable values, and the tax rate per $1,000 of value. Each entity that receives its legally limited share of this property tax pie — like counties, cities, schools, community colleges, hospitals, ag extension and others — typically relies on this as a primary funding source to provide high quality services we expect. Local boards have few options except to accept their entire share and do their best with it. Personally, I served on a school board for 12 years. Neither then nor since have I seen evidence that our friends and neighbors who serve on these boards are irresponsible stewards of those revenues and who just want to raise our taxes relentlessly. So about that 41.9 percent levy increase: taxes tied to real estate increase with its value. Don’t like it? That’s a legislature problem, not a city council’s. According to a web-based housing inflation calculator, the national housing value increase since 2017 is 33 percent. Decorah is 48 percent. Question: Has your home value increased since 2017? Ask a real estate agent or try buying a house in Decorah. Why do these numbers matter? Because of what I feel is an unfair extension of logic in Dan’s letter. The really telling observation and conclusion he makes is toward the end. He states, “My opposition to the MEU initiative is not based in ideology or partisanship. My opposition stems not from any paucity of community spirit, or civic disloyalty, or contempt or distrust of our elected officials.” I applaud and do not question that comment. However, the next sentence

betrays that spirit by applying an inappropriate extension of his primary observation about local property tax levies vs. US inflation into a fear about future local officials ultimate behavior. He continues, “I trust that our city mothers and fathers would, if given the opportunity, do with our electricity rates what they have done with our property taxes, which is to say hike them relentlessly.” Apples-to-oranges. Property taxes based on your property’s valuation is not equivalent to establishing your electrical rates based on a utility’s actual costs. The other apples vs. oranges point is that, when it comes to electrical service, all costs are paid by the consumer of the service. Whether investor-owned — like Alliant — member-owned — like a rural electric cooperative — or municipal-owned, electrical rates pay for it all. If Decorah approves and, ultimately, the Iowa Utilities Commission determines that it is the best option for Decorah, the revenue bonds needed to purchase the infrastructure and all the operational costs will be paid for through our electrical rates, like they are now, not through taxes. We rate-payers pay for all of Alliant’s costs, including all their corporate overhead and the limited but guaranteed profits to their investors in exchange for being a regulated monopoly. There are basically three components to electrical service: power generation, power transmission through high-voltage lines and power distribution to customers. Investor-owned utilities typically provide all three. This is called vertical integration. In 2008, Alliant sold their transmission lines to ITC-Midwest, but they still produce and sell electrons mostly into the grid. If the utility is a producer, it is not in their interest to promote lower usage because they need to sell what they produce. It could be argued that this as an inherent conflict of interest in comparison to the interest of the public to reduce excessive usage, expense and environmental impact. Thus, the need for regulation to off-

set the monopoly position they have been granted. And, thus the three-person governor-appointed Iowa Utility Commission’s need to approve rates that balance the public interest and the demands for shareholder profits. RECs and MEUs are typically just locally led electrical distributors. This gives them an inherent interest in emphasizing good distribution service and operating in a manner that matches the needs and desires of the public they serve. Energy efficiency is the friend of a distributor because the cost of power that you only buy in order to resell is just a passthrough expense. However, joint ownership of older power plants can complicate these goals. RECs and MEUs are not regulated for the public interest by the IUC because they both answer directly to their customers through representative boards. In other words, in a consumer-owned business, the interests of the owners are inherently served by representatives they select themselves. Personally, I have greater trust that local utility leaders understand our local public interest better than a multi-state utility and a regulator in Des Moines. And this difference – the inherent ability of a locally owned utility to be a positive force that reflects local values and reduces the outflow of dollars from the community – provides great potential for sustainability issues, both environmental and social. Personally, I’d like to see us be innovators and leaders in “greening” our local power, but doing so in a way that also provides the benefits of affordable green power to those who are not able to put solar on their roof like we did. And the technology to do really exciting things is just getting started. An MEU can give us this option. But remember, if we vote no, we are saying we don’t even want the facts needed to know if becoming our own electrical distributor is feasible. Lyle Luzum Decorah

Why vote yes to the municipal energy utility referendum Dear Editor, Thank you to the Decorah City Council for exploring the feasibility of a municipal electricity utility and for offering residents the opportunity to vote yes on the upcoming referendum in March. There are confusing and conflicting opinions about what this referendum might mean. As I understand, a yes vote does not commit us to changing energy providers. We are simply agreeing to allow our elected council members to study and consider alternative alternatives to Alliant Energy as our electricity provider down the road. Nothing more. Here are a few facts to consider: 1. Alliant has had two ma-

jor rate increases in just under five years. We pay higher rates than every rural cooperative, and 60 percent higher rates than Mid-American Energy, the other major electric utility in Iowa. 2. Since the last referendum in 2018, companies like MiEnegy have emerged that could provide energy and/or full maintenance services to the city of Decorah if we choose. MiEnergy already serves a portion of the Decorah Community. 3. The Iowa Ethics Commission has assured our council that the city’s educational materials (https://www. decorahia.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/003A-MEU-Education-Master-List.pdf) are accurate and without political purpose. Our city council has

been and will continue to be transparent and professional with their time and attention to this issue. 4. As previously stated, and most importantly, we will be voting to find out more about the rates and reliability of a proposed MEU for Decorah. We will not be voting for or against any specific energy provider. I trust our city council members to carefully study the options and to do due diligence on what’s best for our community. Let’s vote yes in March to continue exploring the best options for the future. Sincerely, Margaret Betteridge Decorah

OPINION

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Reader foresees recession under next Trump administration

I’ve had conversations with concerned people about protecting retirement funds, so no funds will be lost, wondering how to protect funds. I lost funds during the Repubs’ recessions. It took Clinton and Obama eight years each to regain what was lost in Reagan’s, Bush 1’s and Bush 2’s recessions. It took Bidenomics four years to regain what was lost in Trump’s tenure. Trumpsters thought more about eggs and gas — they were more expensive during Bush 2’s tenure — than future ﬁnancial health. Those voters forgot 45’s record of swindling them, and they came back for more swindles. They did not pull their hands/votes out of the ﬁres he fueled. I, like many of us, am older. We cannot afford another three or eight years to regain our retirement funding when we suffer another recession. I also

wish to leave my children and grandchildren some inheritance to aid them. I do see some signs of the upcoming recession. Many stockbrokers are unloading many of their stocks. Bird ﬂu is spreading — higher egg prices. Russia is advancing farther into Ukraine, a world leader in grain production. Putin is eyeballing Moldova, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia. Trump was gung-ho on nuking hurricanes. What will restrain him from using nukes on Ukraine or Taiwan/China. His sycophants in Congress, including Iowa’s delegation, want to gut Social Security and Medicare. Look for more Jim Crow laws. Civil Rights. Women’s Rights. LGBTQ rights. Iowans’ rights. I hope I am wrong, but I forecast a long and dangerous four years! Dave Ameling Ossian

Current electric prices high, but service reliable

This is just my opinion. I’m sure a lot of people will disagree with me, especially the city council. So be it. Alliant and MiEnergy out of Cresco — which I’m on — they’re both high, but they are reliable. When electric goes out, they’re usually back on within hours. It costs a lot of money to run that equipment. What isn’t high anymore? Cars, taxes, insurance groceries etc. You get my point. Any families and renters who pay an electric bill in Decorah should be able to vote. Even business owners who live out-

side of town should have a right to vote. The city will have to buy Alliant out. Which will run into many millions of dollars. How’s that going to be paid for? Get out and vote, one way or the other. Don’t let a few votes decide this. Let’s put this to rest once and for all. I’m voting no and I hope you will too. Thank you. Sincerely, Roland Breeser Decorah

Echoes of the Past

Women called upon in war effort BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER The war effort was front page news back in the 1940s, and women were a big slice of those headlines. American women were called upon to do much more than save the kitchen fat (although that was deemed a very important mission back in that era). Plenty of jobs started opening up for “the fairer sex” once the men of the house entered combat roles. Firms throughout the Midwest advertised in the Decorah paper for women to complete tasks traditionally done by men, including factory work and even some military jobs. The aviation industry was one of the biggest employers of women during those years. Women played important roles during World War II, both in uniform and at home. Giving time and energy – coupled with managing their households- Women ﬁlled many vacant farm jobs, planting seeds and harvesting. They were also hired as air raid wardens, auxiliary ﬁre service workers, Red Cross volunteers, and they excelled in manufacturing roles. It was a monumental act. Offering up a salute to all those women on the home front and beyond, here are a few more headlines from another era:

Lawmakers should move past AGO – 1945: the stigma of cannabis products 80 YEARS The Decorah City To the Editor: It is time for Iowa and its leaders and the country as a whole to legalize/decriminalize the evil weed, as some still say, aka marijuana and most all CBD products. Minnesota has done it as has Missouri and Illinois just in the Midwest. And Missouri is a very conservative state like Iowa has become. As of November 2024, the following 24 states have legalized the recreational use of marijuana: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island and Vermont. To begin with, marijuana is not a gateway drug, there is no scientiﬁc consensus that shows that marijuana is a gateway drug. I know people who use marijuana, people who use it for medical purposes and those who use it for recreational purposes, and none of them have moved on to more dangerous drugs, nor are they addicted to marijuana. When it comes to your statement “is marijuana less harmful than cigarettes?” In my opinion, and I’m sure many others would agree, yes, marijuana is less harmful than cigarettes. We all know cigarettes are addictive and contained hundreds of dangerous chemicals, with many of them known to cause cancer, along with other health issues such as heart disease, COPD and emphysema and cancer, yet cigarettes are available for sale to the public to adults 18 and older — except for Hawaii and soon to be California. The same applies to alcohol,

while many of us drink responsibly, there are those who are alcoholics, and long-term health effects for them include cancer, liver disease and pancreatitis, yet alcohol is for sale to the public. Why should we treat marijuana any different? If anything, we should treat marijuana the same way as alcohol. Why prohibit marijuana just because it can result in more car accidents? People already drink and drive, and unfortunately many are involved in car accidents that results in injuries and death, but it doesn’t stop alcohol from being sold to the public. There are already laws that make it illegal to drive a car while being high, as well as drunk or under the influence of other narcotics, it’s all classified under driving under the influence. The legal states are reaping in billions of dollars of tax money from CBD sales. There is no reason at all Iowa cannot give Iowans the freedom that many others have.. Our leaders must wake up and get away from the stigma of cannabis products as a bad thing...at the federal level Donald Trump has stated support for legalization and that should be enough for Iowa’s conservative leaders to follow suit....it’s all about freedom remember? I am sure many members of our local law enforcement would agree. So I say in 2025 lets have the freedom millions of others have and not be afraid of being punished by the law as Iowa does now for even small amounts of cannabis products. It’s past time to Spread the word to legalize marijuana. Randy Haugen Decorah

Council has dropped a proposal to place stop signs along Broadway Street to make it a through street. …An Army-owned plant in Baraboo, Wisconsin is advertising for help. This is a special appeal for WOMEN. There are plenty of jobs that a woman could handle - in making rocket powder at Badger Ordinance Works. …The ﬁrst cold wave of the season took the ofﬁcial weather bureau thermometer in town down to 18 degrees below zero the other morning. …One Decorah area grocery store owner estimated his telephone rang at the rate of 3 times a minute as housewives tried to ask him to open his store on Christmas Day. They were in desperate need of goods that would go back on the ration list later in the week. He told us he did not answer his phone. Housewives made a point to stop at the store the day after Christmas Day to buy up unrationed groceries as quick as they could. One woman paid a whopping $10 for her stash of groceries! …A salary of $145 per month is being paid to good mathematics workers by the University of Minnesota starting Jan. 22. The work is in connection with radio and radar engineering developments.

Looking east on Water Street This vintage photograph from the Decorah Leader archives is taken on Water Street, looking to the east from Court Street. There is no date indicated on the picture. A sign advertising for Decorah Furniture and Undertakers is prominent in the picture, and the National Bank of Decorah is situated farther down the street. The Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Shop is indicated on the right, (south side of the street) near the old Grand Theater.

YEARS AGO – 1955: Now showing at the Lyric: “The Last Time I Saw Paris” starring Elizabeth Taylor and Van Johnson. …Paramount’s brand new musical extravaganza “White Christmas” is presented at the Lyric Theatre in Vista Vision! Stars are Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney and Danny Kay. …The winning boys teams in the 6th annual Christmas Bowling Tourney sponsored by the Elks Lodge for Decorah High School students was the team called “Posten Five.” Team members are John Ahern, Don White, Hubie Teslow, Bob Johnson and Tom Haugen. The winning girls team is Little Darlings, made up of Kathy Ruen, Jeanette Vine, Lois Foltz, Elaine Ask and Corrine Larsen. …A baby born to Marvin and Donna Hovden has won the First Baby of 1955 Contest. Darrell John was born Jan. 1, 1955 at 5:23 p.m. …There were seven cases of polio reported in Winneshiek County this last year.

YEARS AGO – 1965: A controversial ordinance requiring dog owners to keep their animals conﬁned 365 days a year has been adopted by the Decorah City Council. …Stop by for the Sunday Buffet at Hotel Winneshiek. The hotel serves the ﬁnest buffet for miles around. Pricetag: $1.75 for grown-ups and $1 for children. All you can eat! …Nehi Bottling Company of Decorah, located at 421 West Water Street, has been purchased by the 7-Up Corporation. The sale became effective Jan. 2. Company President Henry Montgomery said about 30 people are on the Nehi payroll. …Luther College Radio Station KWLC has a new home on the campus. Studios and broadcasting facilities are now located in Valders Memorial Science Hall. …Parking meter receipts for 1954 totaled $9,649 according to City Clerk Charles Anderson.

YEARS AGO - 1975: The Decorah-Winneshiek Communications Board of Directors is opening bids next week on a new high-band communications equipment system to be installed at Decorah City Hall. It will serve the law enforcement needs of the City of Decorah and County of Winneshiek. …Security Bank and Trust of Decorah has purchased the Winneshiek Hotel-Motor Inn and apartments at a sheriff’s sale for $112,762.28. The sale was conducted on the ﬁrst ﬂoor of the courthouse here in town, which Sheriff Gene Simenson in charge. …The Hobbit Hole, the local youth drop-in center on East Water Street, is closed for remodeling. New paneling and carpet are part of the project. …Veteran Decorah merchant Leo Tekippe has sold his Coastto-Coast Store after 44 years as a retailer here.

YEARS AGO - 1985: Bruce Willer, formerly of Decorah, has been named Coach of the Year for the South Dakota Special Olympics Program. …Jamie Lynn Lamphier, daughter of Debbie Lamphier, was the first baby born in 1985 at the Winneshiek County Memorial Hospital. …Countdown to the 1985 Nordic Fest has begun. Three new board members have joined the planning committee: Maggie McConnell, Nancy Ruen and Glenda Moen. …The top story for the past year (1984) was the treasurer’s office embezzlement case, which dominated the news from May through November. The treasurer’s office was closed in May of 1984 when the body of the county treasurer was discovered.

YEARS AGO – 1995: The ﬁrst money allocated for tourism from the city of Decorah’s hotel/motel tax is going toward three different publications: a cross-country ski brochure and map to be compiled by the Decorah

Parks and Rec Department; a brochure outlining activities of Winterfest (held in January in Decorah); and a full-page ad in a visitor’s guide compiled by the Iowa Department of Economic Development’s Tourism Division. Cost for all three projects is $6,500. …Dustin Smith is the first baby of 1995 born at the Winneshiek County Memorial Hospital. He is the first child of Eric and Dainna Smith of Decorah. …Area residents flocked to the post office this holiday season. The reason? A run on 3-cent stamps. The big rush was because folks wanted to use the 3-centers on their old 29-cent stamps! Postal workers said there is an adequate inventory, so no worries.

YEARS AGO – 2005: Jacob Roberts, son of Scott and Betty Roberts of Fort Atkinson, was the ﬁrst baby born in the new year at Winneshiek Medical Center. He was born Jan. 3, 2005. …A “Freedom From Smoking” cessation program starts this month at Decorah Lutheran Church. Cost is $35 and scholarships are available. Call Helping Services for NE Iowa for more information. …Stop at Happy Joe’s for Family Night. Large pizza and pitcher of soda for $13.95. …Now showing at the Viking Theatre: “Meet the Fockers”. Coming soon: “Oceans 12.” All seats $4.

YEARS AGO – 2015: Recipients of the Winneshiek County Agricultural Association’s Distinguished Service Awards last year were Arlin Hanson, Janice Hotvedt (accepting for her late husband, Spencer) and Marsha Carlson and Dave Broghamer (accepting for their late parents Marcy and Marie Broghamer). …Winneshiek County Supervisors approved naming the ball ﬁeld at Silver Springs Golf Course as George Wolfe Field. …HELP WANTED: Several job openings for retail staffers in the area. Starting pay is $9 per hour.

Rx for what’s ailing you — the writer’s prescription We may not realize that politics is one of those human issues that can implode on us. There comes a time when this realization hits rather hard. This last election was one of them. There is a remedy to help regain that which may have been

lost. For some of us, the Rx is available at no cost. Purging 90 to 95 percent of political issues from your brain is of great value in lowering blood pressure. It’s not as hard as you might think. And another no-cost beneﬁt, you may regain the old deep

sleep you once had. Politics comes in various forms. The killer effort is working your way up to vote. And in most cases, you have contributed what is humanly possible. Now let the Rx work and live once more.

Look forward to a happy and healthy New Year by saying enough is enough. No need to age yourself unnecessarily. John Carver Decorah

OBITUARIES/NEWS

Bernice Wilharm

July 28, 1936 -Dec. 30, 2024

Bernice H. Wilharm, 88, of Sumner, died Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving children. Bernice Helen was born on July 28, 1936, the daughter of Leonard and Elsie (Nuss) Mohlis at the family’s Bernice home in DayWilharm ton Township near Buck Creek in rural Sumner. She was baptized Aug. 9, 1936, and conﬁrmed Jan. 1, 1950, both at St. John Lutheran Church-Buck Creek in rural Sumner. Bernice received her education at St. John Lutheran Church-Buck Creek Parochial School. On July 31, 1955, she was united in marriage with Marvin Wilharm at St. John Lutheran Church-Buck Creek. To this union two children were born: Dale and Darla. In her early years of marriage, Bernice worked with her brother Harold, painting and staining. Bernice was a devoted homemaker while her children were growing up, never missing any of their various activities. After her children graduated from high school, she started working in the kitchen at the Hillcrest Home, working there for many years and retiring in the mid 1990s. Bernice and her husband Marvin were in a card club for many years and enjoyed the lasting friendships they made. She was a long-time faithful member of St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner, where she was a Sunday School teacher, was involved in the Ladies Aid and volunteered to assist with other administrative tasks. Bernice was an avid gardener and always had a large and meticulous garden. Her greatest joy was the time she spent with

her family and never missed an opportunity to attend one of her grandchildren’s activities. Bernice is survived by her children: Dale (Diana) Wilharm of Decorah and Darla (Duane) Hildebrandt of Sumner; four grandchildren: Adam (Brianne) Hildebrandt of Urbana, Haylee (Brandon) Uhlenhopp of Sumner, Nick (Heather) Wilharm of Savannah, Georgia, and Alex (Brandon Patterson) Wilharm of Atlanta, Georgia; six great-grandchildren and one on the way: Coltin, Deklin, and Eastin Hildebrandt, and Lily, Brylee, and Maylee Uhlenhopp; sisters-in-law: Joan Wilharm of Sumner, Darlys Schulz of Sumner and Gerry Kane of Oelwein; brother-in-law, Larry (Carol) Wilharm of Sumner; special niece, Carmen Leech of Sumner; special nephew, Mark Goodenbour of Tripoli; close friend, Jane Kroeger; and several nieces, nephews and extended family members. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin (March 8, 1990); brothers, Harold Mohlis (April 15, 1996) and Ralph (Judy, June 2, 2014) Mohlis (Jan. 16, 1999); sister, Marlys (Cletus, Feb. 15, 1978) Goodenbour (Dec. 22, 2016); and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. Funeral services were held Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner with Rev. Tracy Hinkel ofﬁciating. Interment followed at St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Bernice’s name to St. John Lutheran Church’s Building Improvement Project, 324 E. Washington St., Sumner, IA 50674 or Care Initiatives Hospice, 6915 Chancellor Dr. Ste A. Cedar Falls, IA 50613. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig.com.

City exploring changes, improvements to traffic flow at Heivly and College Drive BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER With the first phase of construction for the long-awaited North Alley Project due to begin this summer along Heivly Street, the Decorah City Council discussed possible improvements Monday night, which could take place at the busy intersection where Heivly meets College Drive. City Engineer John Hjelle has been working with Iowa engineering and planning firm WHKS to reconfigure the intersection and offer three design concepts for the council to consider. Hjelle performed an informal traffic study at the intersection in October of 2024, observing weekday traffic for eight hours split equally between the morning and afternoon. He shared his findings with the council during Monday’s meeting, saying the left turn lane on Heivly is very lightly used throughout the day. “That left turn lane is unnecessary from a vehicle traffic pattern standpoint. We would still give motorists the option of turning left there, but left turns are about 1 percent of the traffic at that intersection,” Hjelle said. One of the possible options proposes removing the left turn lane and narrowing Heivly at the intersection, which would provide extra space on the north side of the street. Currently, as part of phase one, a 10-footwide bicycle and pedestrian track is expected to be installed on the north side of Heivly, running from the fire department and terminating near the west end of Heivly. Hjelle said work near the in-

Make Sure Your Loved One’s Memory Lives on With a Customized Memorial From West Union Monument Company and Decorah Memorial Company. Honor your loved ones with a custom memorial from West Union Monument Company and Decorah Memorial Company. We have been serving friends and neighbors throughout Northeast Iowa for over 60 years. Having a long-lasting commitment to our community, we strive to help the memory of your loved ones continue on for many generations to come.

Visit our website to check out our gallery of upright memorials, lawn-level memorials, benches, memorial accessories and more.

126 Franklin St., West Union, IA 52175

213 Washington St., Decorah, IA 52101

(563) 422-5895 WestUnionMonument.com

(563) 382-2294 DecorahMemorial.com

“Where Quality Prevails”

One of the possible options proposes removing the left turn lane and narrowing Heivly Street at its intersection with College Drive, which would provide extra space on the north side of the street. According to an informal traffic study performed by the city engineer, left turns account for about 1 percent of traffic at this intersection. (Photo by Denise Lana) tersection may also be a perfect opportunity for the city to make some much-needed improvements on the south side of the College Drive bridge. “What we would like to do is put in a crosswalk that extends from the new, wide pedestrian track off of Heivly, extends across College Drive and meets up with the extra-wide bike lane on the west side of the College Drive bridge that extends all the way to Luther College,” Hjelle said. “People from Luther College and all the west side would have an alternative means of getting around and a way for non-motorized transportation to get all the way downtown.” Several council members expressed their opposition to the removal of the left turn lane, citing concerns regarding how drivers might react to the change in traffic patterns as well as how it might stymie those who do use the turn lane to stop at businesses like the Whippy Dip and the Decorah Bicycles. Currently, a triangular slab of concrete which connects to the southernmost bridge ex-

pansion joint of the College Drive bridge is settling and has developed a gap of approximately 4-inch. The city needs to remove the slab and replace it with concrete level with the bridge, Hjelle said. Hjelle said, if the left turn lane on at Heivly Street and College Drive isn’t eliminated, there may not be sufficient room for the planned 10-foot-wide bicycle and pedestrian path, which Hjelle said may problematically result in a crosswalk passing over the bridge’s expansion joint, causing a tripping hazard. According to Hjelle, a traffic study of the intersection will be conducted in the next few weeks to gather data and information. The traffic lights may be bagged for several weeks, and temporary stop signs may be erected during the study. “A camera will be put out to look at all the turning movements and observe how the traffic is able to navigate the intersection with the traffic lights removed,” Hjelle said. “We will also be looking at how to get pedestrians across that intersection safely.”

Councilmember Steven Zittergruen voiced his support for the traffic study, saying the intersection has seen a few accidents over the past few years and the city should do all it can to prioritize safety. “Converting to stop signs and trialing the intersections — I think that’s a great first step,” Zittergruen said. “It’s a popular intersection in the city, and a heavily used location. I wish I felt just as safe sending my kids across the intersection south of the bridge as I do at the new Kwik Star intersection.” The city plans to sign a contract with WHKS in the near future. The firm will then develop a concept based on ideas put forth by city staff, council members, the city engineer and others. The concept is anticipated to be finalized in the next several months. Bid letting for the first phase of the project is anticipated to happen in May, according to Hjelle, and construction on Heivly—spanning from the fire department to Julian Street — is slated to begin this summer and extend into autumn.

MEU counsel initially questioned whether the city might violate Iowa Code by doing so, claiming the city’s drafted language omitted important information regarding potential costs and arguing state law prevents cities from using public funds for political purposes. The city council held off on approving the master list last month in order to allow the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board to review the proposed language. Zach Goodrich, executive director and legal counsel for the state board, told Decorah’s city staff in a Dec. 19 email that he “didn’t find anything that would come close to a ‘political purpose’” in the city’s draft of its master list — Goodrich later stressed his review was limited to whether the city’s proposed language violated the specific section of Iowa law cited by Alliant. The city council approved its master list on Dec. 23. Cindy Tomlinson, manager of external communications with Alliant Energy, claimed the document which city officials submitted to Goodrich was “vastly different” from the version Alliant criticized in its letter ahead of the Dec. 16 city council meeting. “Had the current version been submitted originally, Alliant Energy would not have issued a letter outlining multiple concerns,” Tomlinson said in a Jan. 4 email to the Decorah Leader. Tomlinson said Alliant’s Dec. 16 letter was referring to an earlier draft of the city’s proposed language, and she provided a copy of that draft — dated Nov. 21, 2024 — to the Decorah Leader. Alliant’s Dec. 16 letter to the city council directly quotes specific portions of the city’s drafted master list, citing specific subject headings. At least two of those quotes as well as one subject heading do not appear in the Nov. 21 draft to which the company claims

the letter was referring. The city of Decorah provided the Decorah Leader with two drafts of its master list — one dated Dec. 12 and the other dated Dec. 23. Both of those drafts contain the exact quotes and subject heading cited in Alliant’s Dec. 16 letter to the city council. Goodrich conﬁrmed the Dec. 12 draft of the master list the city provided to the Decorah Leader is “practically identical” to the document Goodrich himself received from Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken last month. “The only difference is punctuation and perhaps some formatting with extra spaces,” Goodrich said. Tomlinson was unsure when Alliant had received the city’s drafted materials, but she said the company reacted as soon as possible, which she indicated may have resulted in issues with the Dec. 16 letter. A week after approving the language for the informational materials, the city of Decorah ﬁled its petition with the IUC. In part, the city questioned data posted on Alliant’s website, which references a 2018 feasibility study and claims Decorah’s electrical rates under an MEU could be as much as 48 percent higher than Alliant’s over a 20-year period. Bauer indicated the company estimates allowing Alliant to continue providing electricity to Decorah could save residents up to $58 million compared to a municipal system. The city called the numbers unsubstantiated. “The city of Decorah and its voters have no way of knowing where Alliant is getting the data for its predicted rates, and Alliant should not be allowed to reference a seven-year-old feasibility study or mislead voters by making comparisons to the possible costs and rates of a municipal utility that is not yet formed or even approved

continued from front by voters,” the city said in its petition. Bauer indicated the 2018 study was conducted by a firm called Concentric Energy Advisors. Archives of the Decorah Journal show a study by Concentric was presented to the Decorah City Council months ahead of the 2018 referendum, and the results of that study differed from an earlier study conducted on behalf of the city by NewGen Strategies and Solutions — the Concentric study said municipalization would cost Decorah residents an additional $1.7 million per year, while the New Gen study estimated it would save residents $5 million per year. City points to past issues in making plea The city’s petition went on to cite a 2019 order from the Iowa Utilities Commission, noting the IUC had found Interstate Power and Light’s opposition to Decorah’s 2018 municipalization demonstrated “a lack of management efficiency by withholding from and not providing to the citizens of Decorah accurate information about anticipated rate increases.” The commission required IPL to create and submit a plan outlining how the company would improve its customer relations. The city’s petition cited other docket filings, saying IPL did not submit a plan acceptable to the commission for nearly two years. “IPL’s track record on this issue does not inspire confidence that it will be any more successful in future attempts to be transparent with Decorah,” the city’s petition said. The Iowa Utilities Commission has scheduled an informal meeting to discuss the city’s petition on Jan. 22 in Des Moines. Docket filings indicate the commission is expected to reach a decision on the city’s request no later than Feb. 28 unless both parties agree to a later deadline.

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

y b a B 2025 First

WinnMed is proud to introduce the first baby of 2025 and the first baby born in the newly renovated WinnMed birthing unit...

REESE DOROTHY WOODHOUSE born January 2 at 6:58 p.m. to Katherine and Joshua Woodhouse of Decorah As a part of WinnMed’s Transforming Tomorrow growth and expansion project, WinnMed created a new, fully renovated birthing unit that features all Labor, Delivery, Recovery, Postpartum (LDRP) suites, and direct access from Obstetrics to Surgery for patients needing a C-section.

WinnMed’s new OB facilities to promote early family bonding WinnMed’s new obstetrics unit includes six LDRP rooms — or rooms suited for the labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum portions of birth. The spacious new birthing suites allow mothers and babies to remain together following birth and families to be together. Katherine and Joshua Woodhouse of Decorah are pictured here with their daughter Reese, born Jan. 2. Also pictured in the new birthing suite is the couple’s older daughter, Hannah, with grandparents Maria and Jay Mathis. (Photos by Samantha Ludeking)

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR The ﬁrst baby to be born at WinnMed in Decorah arrived exactly two weeks after hospital ofﬁcials held an open house to celebrate the completion of its new obstetrics unit. The new OB unit is one of several improvements undertaken as part of WinnMed’s Transforming Tomorrow project, and staff said several aspects of the new OB unit were designed to minimize disruptions and increase patient comfort. “The whole goal with the labor is that we came make this so families never really have to leave the room,” said Brianne Leikvold, WinnMed’s director of OB.

Leikvold went on to say the beneﬁts of allowing mothers and their babies to remain together following birth are more numerous than she can count off-hand. “Not only does it promote breastfeeding, but it promotes bonding with the family,” she said. “It also promotes education that we can give to those parents. They’re getting educated being right in there with them.” Liekvold credited WinnMed’s nursing staff with ensuring families have the knowledge and resources to be successful before they head home. The hospital’s new OB unit includes spaces where new mothers can learn to breastfeed their infant and nursing staff can check the

newborn’s weight or, in some cases, assess an expectant mother before admitting her to the hospital. Hospital staff also demonstrates safe sleeping practices for each baby and performs a safety check of each family’s car seat to be sure it has been properly installed. “They always want to make sure that everybody feels comfortable,” Liekvold said of her nursing staff. “And one big thing is always making sure you know the basics of taking care of a baby. We don’t just focus on moms. We focus on the family as a whole.” The hospital’s OB unit is the ﬁrst of the aspect of the Transforming Tomorrow campaign to reach completion, according to information from WinnMed. Renovation of the OB

s n o i t a l u t a r g n o C

WinnMed!

Thank you for selecting us for your electrical needs!

area began in March of 2024, and Leikvold said that portion of the hospital was torn down to its studs. The OB unit’s footprint remained roughly the same — about 6,200 squarefeet — but Leikvold said the

new layout and design features are meant to provide a more ideal experience for families as they welcome their newest member into the world. The hospital’s new unit includes six LDRP rooms — or rooms suit-

ed for the labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum portions of birth. Each sound-dampened

OB facilities

continued on page 10

Thank You

WinnMed! Congratulations on your renovation and expansion!

The Perry Novak Electric Perry, Wendy & Russell Nursery

Electrical + Solar Contractor

Serving northeast Iowa for over 40 years

2727 Locust Rd., Decorah

563-382-2179

www.perrynovakelectric.com

202 E. Water St., Decorah, IA | 563-382-9661

www.decorah.bank

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

2025

Brianne Leikvold, WinnMed’s director of OB, displays some of the details that make a big impact on patients and families in the OB unit. A simple lighted keyboard (above) means the nursing staff doesn’t need to turn on lights when the patient is resting. LEFT- Passthrough cupboards in the rooms can be accessed by the nursing staff from an outside hallway to avoid disturbing families.

FIRST BABY Hannah Woodhouse and her grandparents walk the hall of WinnMed’s new OB unit past a small waiting area and kitchenette just a few yards from the patient rooms, which families can use during their stay.

Reese Dorothy Woodhouse born January 2 at 6:58 p.m. to Katherine and Joshua Woodhouse of Decorah

Reese and her family will enjoy a tote bag (from The Getup) filled with a variety of gifts, compliments of the following businesses: Enterprise Media/ Decorah Leader, Country Garden Flowers and Gifts, Magpie Cafe and Coffeehouse, Jenny Wren Gift Market, Ace Hardware, The Getup, Heavenly Made Gifts and the Gnome Store, Magic Morpho, King Pin Entertainment Center, Viking State Bank and DuTrac Community Credit Union.

8 lbs. 7 oz. | 19 in. Delivering Physician: Dr. John Vogel (Mayo Clinic Health System Physician)

s n o i t a l u t a r g n o C y b a B t s r i F

Katherine and Joshua Woodhouse of Decorah with their daughters Hannah and Reese. (Photos by Samantha Ludeking)

An expanded nurse’s station looks over the main obstetrics hallway and into the nursery.

Congratulations on your new arrival! May your new baby bring you all the joy in the world!

and WinnMed on the new OB unit from these businesses

COUNTRY GARDEN Flowers & Gifts

Your Local Full-Service Florist WE DELIVER!

Welcome Reese Dorothy! Come experience the Magic

Proud to deliver fresh flowers in celebration of baby Reese's arrival!

Congratulations to the Woodhouse family on the birth of their baby and to WinnMed on their newly-renovated OB Department!

Welcome baby!

Shop our home goods, small appliances + gifts!

Hardware & RENTAL 200 E. Main St., Decorah Hardware & RENTAL 563.382.3538

200 E. Main St., Decorah • 563-382-3538 101 E. Water St., Decorah • 563-382-3544

WELCOME REESE DOROTHY! CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WOODHOUSE FAMILY AND TO WINNMED ON THE COMPLETION OF THEIR OB DEPARTMENT RENOVATIONS!

! y ab Ace B e om c el W AceKitchen Place

Kitchen Place

106 E. Water St., Decorah 563.382.3544 106 E. Water St., Decorah Mon.- Wed. 9-6; Thur. 9-8; 563.382.3544 Fri. 9-6; Sat. 9-5; Sun. 12-4 We buy & sell gently newborn to young Mon.-used Wed. 9-6; Thur. 9-8; adult Some exceptions, services, Sat. 9-5; Sun. 12-4 gift certificates, gas grills, etc. clothing, Fri. kids’9-6; gear & maternity wear!

WELCOME BABY!

Congratulations Katherine + Joshua Woodhouse on the birth of your baby Reese Dorothy, the first born at WinnMed’s 202 W. Water St. renovated OB department! Decorah

exceptions, services, gift certificates, gas grills, etc. @TheGetupDecorah Some | thegetupdecorah.com | 102 W. Water St., Decorah

563-382-0642

OSSIAN PERK

COFFEE + DRINKS BAKED GOODS BREAKFAST & LUNCH TAP BEER, MIMOSAS + BLOODY MARYS

563-387-0593 mymagpiecoffee.com

Congratulations to the Katherine and Joshua Woodhouse family on your new baby born at WinnMed in the newly-renovated OB Department!

Stop in and ﬁnd a cuddle buddy for the little one in your life

200 W. Water St., Decorah | (563) 419-4034

Reese Dorothy Woodhouse

www.casperdecorah.com

200 E. Main St., Decorah Open M, T, W, F, S 7:30 563.382.3538 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thurs. 7:30 Open M, T, W, F, S 7:30 to 8; Sun. 10 to 4. a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thurs. 7:30 to 8; Sun. 10 to 4.

r e p s a C

804 Pole Line Rd. Decorah, IA PLUMBING & HEATING INC.

Congratulations to the Woodhouse family!

Congratulations to the Woodhouse Family on the birth of your new baby at WinnMed in the newly-renovated OB Department! “We Install Comfort”

130 W. Water St. Decorah 563-387-6014 magicmorpho.com

113 W. Water St., Decorah • 563-382-1148 • thecountrygardenﬂorists.com

Welcome

Sunﬂower Child Development & Discovery Center 902 Commerce Drive Decorah, IA 563-382-5717

COFFEE SHOP

Welcome

Reese Dor othy!

Welcome Baby

915 Short St., Suite 105 Decorah, IA 563-387-8061

dutrac.org

DuTrac oﬀers the Savasaurus Kids Club to all young members age 12 and under to encourage good savings habits. Club members earn “points” for each deposit & withdrawal which can be redeemed for a wide selection of prizes. Learn more at DuTrac.org

! y b a B Welcome

Congratulations to the Woodhouse family on the birth of Reese Dorothy, born at WinnMed in the newly-renovated OB Department!

Real. Life. Banking. That’s DuTrac.

Wake up with SCOOTER’S COFFEE! Welcome Reese Dorothy!

Hot + Cold Drinks, Food Kids Menu & More!

Congratulations WinnMed on the new renovations!

900 Short St. Decorah OPEN DAILY 6AM-8PM

Welcome Reese Dorothy!

Congratulations to the Woodhouse family on the birth of their baby Reese Dorothy! Congratulations to WinnMed on the newly-renovated OB departmment!

DuTrac is here for you for life as your trusted ﬁnancial partner.

400 HEIVLY ST., DECORAH | 563-277-1555 | KPEC.US

YOUR GO-TO PLACE FOR BOWLING, AXE THROWING, AND ARCADE GAMES.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WOODHOUSE FAMILY ON THE BIRTH OF THEIR NEW BABY BORN AT WINNMED IN THE NEWLY-RENOVATED OB DEPARTMENT!

Welcome to the world Reese Dorothy!

Empty Nest Winery

Congratulations to the Katherine 1352 Apple Rd., Waukon & Joshua Woodhouse family 563-568-2758 and to WinnMed on the emptynestwinery.com renovation of the Closed from Jan. 1 to Feb. 13, 2025 OB department!

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW SWEET PEA! Born in the newly renovated WinnMed obstetrics unit. Gundersen proudly provides comprehensive pregnancy care and delivery in Decorah.

Congratulations

Katherine & Joshua Woodhouse!

For more information on

the Obstetrics unit, please scan the QR code at right.

OB facilities continued from page 7 room can be monitored from an expanded nurse’s station in the unit’s main hallway, and wireless fetal heart monitors allow mothers more mobility during the birthing process. Leikvold said each room’s lighting can be adjusted to suit the appropriate stage of the process — full and bright for delivery or low and calming for rest afterwards. All six rooms also feature heat-jetted tubs for what Leikvold called a spa-like experience, and the rooms also include specially-shaped sinks to safely bathe newborns. Leikvold also noted the renovation provided significantly greater storage than the OB unit’s previous design, and pass-through cupboards in the rooms can be accessed by the nursing staff from an outside hallway to avoid disturbing families as they rest or bond with their baby. “We can stock the rooms — we can take any kind of laundry, trash, All six rooms feature heat-jetanything — from out in the hallway ted tubs (above) and specialand never have to come into the paly-shaped sinks (right) to safely tients’ rooms,” she said. bathe newborns. Outside the birth suites, the OB unit’s overall design includes a viewing window for the public to see the hospital’s newest arrivals. Leikvold said it was a feature which many patients requested be included in the renovation designs. “We kind of found, with COVID, it was nice to have that option,” she said. “If you have all these visitors, you don’t have to bring them into the room. We can just show off baby right from the window.” Leikvold said the OB unit will see additional benefits once portions of the Transforming Tomorrow campaign are complete elsewhere in the hospital — specifically work on WinnMed’s operating rooms. “The biggest thing that we’re probably the most excited about is, once the Transforming Tomorrow project is completed, we will have direct access to the OR,” Leikvold said. “We will no longer have to go out and around. We can just go straight into the OR.” She said more efficient access to surgery will be an improvement not only in terms of care but also in terms of privacy for mothers who may need to undergo a C-section or other procedure while giving birth. WinnMed’s Transforming Tomorrow project is tentatively slated for completion in January of 2026.

Members of the public mingled with hospital staff during a Dec. 19 open house inside WinnMed’s new obstetrics unit. The renovation is part of the hospital’s Transforming Tomorrow campaign, and WinnMed ofﬁcials expected staff to be moved into the new space by Dec. 30, 2024. The hospital saw its ﬁrst birth of 2025 three days later. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

ABOVE- The hospital’s new obstetrics unit includes a viewing area for visitors to see newborns. WinnMed’s OB Director Brianne Leikvold said the viewing window was one of the many design features patients requested. She noted the window provides an opportunity for large groups to see the hospital’s new arrivals without having to crowd into a patient’s room. LEFTVisitors attending the open house Dec. 19 were able to explore the renovated suites. (Photos by Seth Boyes)

Vesterheim Museum to host online talk with ‘Leading with Our Hearts’ exhibit artists

Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, will host an online conversation at 1 p.m. Jan. 12 with the artists of the museum’s exhibit, “Leading with Our Hearts: Nordic, Sami, and Ojibwe Designs From Nature.” The public may register for a Zoom link to this free event by visiting vesterheim.org/program/ leading-with-our-hearts-conversation-artists. Artists Alison Aune, Chi Ma’iingan, Laurel Sanders, Wendy Savage and Marlene Wisuri will talk about their contributions to the exhibit as well as the cultural and ancestral roots of their work in textiles, wood and paint. Influenced by her experiences as an art professor and interest in and study of ancestral Nordic folk art, Alison Aune of Duluth, Minnesota, creates contemporary pattern-filled and color-rich paintings depicting individuals, symbolic artifacts and floral imagery.

Operations Support Specialist Key responsibilities include preparing customer quotes, assisting with seed tests, allocating orders, and managing product sales through the company website. This position also may include providing general office support and assisting with technology systems.

51-14-DL-12

The ideal candidate should be proficient in Microsoft Excel and have strong computer skills. This full-time position offers a mix of in-person and remote work. Job description & application available at shootingstarnativeseed.com or at Shooting Star Native Seeds 20740 Co. Rd. 33 Spring Grove, Minnesota

(Photos submitted) al Center of North America in Duluth. Wendy Savage of Duluth is

Affordable Rents in Decorah! Some income restrictions do apply.

an art educator and contemporary Ojibwe artist, who shares the stories through her paint and fabric creations. Marlene Wisuri of Duluth is of Finnish-Sami heritage. Wisuri is an author and photographer as well as the director of the Sámi Cultural Center of North America in Duluth. The “Leading with Our Hearts” exhibit is open through April 13 at Vesterheim and is made possible by a gift to the Vesterheim Annual Fund in memory of Floy Anderson Sauey by her daughters.

SAFETY, HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER A former chief of police for the Fond du Lac Reservation from Cloquet, Minnesota, Chi Ma’iingan is a designer and maker of contemporary fabric-appliquéd Ojibwe regalia. Laurel Sanders of Duluth is an art educator and recipient of a 2024 American-Scandinavian Foundation Fellowship to study Sami band-weaving in Norway. Sanders is a board member of the Sami Cultur-

for more information Call (563)382-2901 or Email Diane Krentz dkrentz@jbhc.biz Apply online at www.jbholland.net

Oneota Village Apartments in now Call our site manager Barb today for taking applications for openings details and a tour! 563-382-1865 starting January 2025. Affordable Equal Housing Opportunity one bedroom units with rent based on 30% of the household income for those 62+ or disabled of any age. All Oneota Village first floor living with utilities includApartments ed, a fridge and stove, a/c, laundry 5 Ohio Street, Decorah, Ia, 52101 on site, off street parking. (563) 382-1865

NEW MINOWA PLAYERS PRESENTS

Affordable Rents in Decorah! Doctor Dolittle

Oneota Village Apartments in now taking applications for openings starting January 2025. Affordable one bedroom units with rent based on 30% of the household income for those 62+ orA disabled of any age.MUSICAL All first floor living with utilities included, FAMILY-FRIENDLY a fridge and stove, a/c, laundry on site, off street parking. Directed by SHERYL SCHEFFERT

Book, music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse Some income apply. Based on therestrictions stories by do Hugh Lofting Call our site manager Barb today for details and a tour! 563-382-1865 Equal Housing Opportunity

Oneota Village Apartments

JANUARY 16, 17, 18, 24 & 25: 7:00PM JANUARY 19 & 25: 2:00PM 5 Ohio Street, Decorah, Ia, 52101 (563) 382-1865

AT NEW MINOWA PLAYERS THEATRE, 906 S. MILL ST., DECORAH

TICKETS

Females and minorities are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA

ADULTS: $15 CHILDREN: $5 (12 and under)

Sponsored by Bill Musser, Otter Dreaming, and Cleo, Paige, and Aurora; Carl Peterson, Copyland, Decorah Bank & Trust, Pizza Ranch, Sabin’s Family Table Restaurant, Gallery of Tops, Iroc Web Design Services, JoAn and Steven Nelson, Rick and Sheryl Scheffert, and Singing Hammers Construction.

Scan code for tickets or visit 2-4-DL-12

2191 US HWY 52, DECORAH, IA 52101

LOOKS LIKE A GREAT OPPORTUNITY! OPPORTUNITY ! Part-time Community Assistants FLEXIBLE

SCHEDULING

to accommodate all types of work, school & social schedules. Full Circle Services offers sick, vacation and personal time to our part time staff.

8:30-1:30 shifts available weekdays!

2-8-DL-12

Apply at: www.fullcircleneia.applicantpro.com/jobs/ or call Jared Morriss at 563-277-2029, jared.morriss@fullcircleneia.com

newminowaplayers.ludus.com

Produced by arrangement with Music Theatre International

Vote Yes

ON TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2025

VOTING YES! on March 4 opens the door to an opportunity for Decorah to keep our energy dollars LOCAL.

This vote will give us access to the data we need to determine the path forward and learn what is in the best interest of Decorah.

Scan

for more info or follow

Decorah Power

Paid for by Citizens for Local Power

NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

DPL awarded grant to bridge technology gaps for area residents Jan. 15 program to focus on cybersecurity, identifying scams BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Technology has become a significant part of everyday life, but many in the community may not have grown up with mobile devices and other digital-age tools, according to staff at the Decorah Public Library. The library has taken it upon itself to help bridge the gap between area residents and the online world. The library was recently awarded a $5,000 grant through a partnership between AT&T and the Public Library Association to increase digital literacy in the Decorah area. DPL Technology and Facilities Manager Jon Pankow said, while the library’s grant application was focused on assisting older adults and those with little to no digital skills, staff won’t turn away anyone from any age bracket who is interested in learning about modern technology. “The DPL is proud to be at the forefront of boosting digital literacy skills and bridging the digital divide in our community,” said Decorah Public Library Director Kristin Torresdal. “Thanks to this successful

grant application submitted by library staff, more learners in our county will get connected to vital digital literacy skills and technology resources.” The library’s $5,000 grant-funded initiative will focus on targeted outreach and training for seniors and users with limited experience to improve basic digital skills and safety. Staff hopes the resources provided through their efforts will help participants maintain independence, access information easily and stay connected with family and friends. “I see a lot of folks coming in with questions about their devices, and we hear people talking about not knowing if an email is legitimate or if it’s a scam,” Pankow said. “We have folks coming to us regularly, needing help with printing something on the internet or off their phone. So, we know these are needs in the community. That’s what I’m kind of excited about — helping people navigate these online safety concerns and feel more confident online and more connected.” Pankow went on to explain that many of today’s seniors have adapted and learned to

use technology to some degree, but he noted, as technology has evolved, so too have scammers’ strategies. “The senior age bracket didn’t grow up with the devices, but they’ve had to learn how to use them to stay in touch with family, go shopping or do anything online,” Pankow said. “So, it’s our goal to help those folks learn how to navigate those things as safely as they can. It’s kind of a tricky place out there, and scammers have gotten much better at what they’re doing, and they’re targeting that audience as well.” DPL will host a variety of workshops on site and at select outreach locations, beginning with its first free program at 11 a.m. on Jan. 15. The presentation, entitled “Cybersecurity Basics,” will take place in the library’s lower level meeting room and will help attendees identify secure websites, create strong and memorable passwords and recognize scams before it’s too late. The DPL’s goal is to reach a number of learners through the end of May, and then consider the library’s next steps. “We’re kind of using this

grant to help kickstart an increase in our digital literacy programming,” Pankow said. “We’ll be evaluating how these workshops go, and we hope to extend these workshops or some other digital programming into the future.” Pankow added that, as a free technology hub, the local library is the ideal host for such programming. “We are a bridge for technology,” he said. “We are a place where people can come to use technology for free. We have public-access computers here, and we have some public-access laptops available. So, we are a community tech resource, and a lot of people come here to use our technology. They may go online to do a job application or write a resume — online shopping or check email. We’re kind of an obvious choice for training like this, and we’re a good resource for folks without financial barriers. No registration is required for the Jan. 15 program, and the public is welcome. For more information, call Decorah Public Library at 563-382-2717 or visit decorahlibrary.org.

Riverview Center seeks county funding to continue providing support services survivors of sexual violence BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER About 25 percent of Winneshiek County residents will experience sexual violence in their lifetimes, according to numbers from Riverview Center, a regional nonprofit which provides support and advocacy for survivors of sexual assault. Representatives of Riverview Center recently requested county officials include a $8,500 contribution to Riverview Center in the county’s budget for fiscal year 2025-26. The nonprofit organization provides completely free and confidential services to people of all ages who have been impacted by sexual violence in 14 Iowa counties and two northwest Illinois counties. The organization’s services include therapy, peer counseling, legal guidance and more. Riverview Center’s Director of Development and Public Relations Sam Blatt said the $8,500 request will help increase the availability of the center’s counseling, therapeutic and advocacy services for survivors of sexual grooming, rape, sexual assault, incest and other experiences. Blatt said Riverview Center has served 41 individuals in the last year alone — totaling almost 900 service hours. “It’s estimated that almost 3,500 women in Winneshiek County will experience sexual assault or sexual violence in their lifetime, and almost 1,500

Riverview Center Sexual Assault Therapist Mindy Myers speaks with the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors Monday morning. (Photo by Zach Jensen) men in Winneshiek County will also experience sexual assault or abuse in their lifetime,” Blatt said. “And we are there to provide support.” Riverview Center Sexual Assault Therapist Mindy Myers presented the funding request with Blatt and emphasized the organization is available to any victim of sexual violence, regardless of when the event occurred. “Whether we’re called immediately when the assault happens or we’re called about something that happened years (ago), the response isn’t different,” Myers said. “A lot of people we serve do not come in the day the event happened — they

come in a few days later, after they talk with their mother and their sister and whoever they would need to support them.” Once a survivor contacts Riverview Center, Myers, who has worked in victim services for 28 years, said the individual chooses which of the nonprofit’s free services — such as therapy, advocacy or help with the legal or court processes — they want to use. “Some people just want (support),” Myers said. “We don’t push ourselves on people.” Myers noted that providing services in northeast Iowa is often challenging, noting the region is a mostly-rural area and some survivors might not

be able to afford traveling to a Riverview Center location — but Riverview Center’s staff is sometimes able to find solutions. “If parents can’t get off work to get kids to us, we meet them at the school,” Myers said. “Or, we can provide gas cards, or we can meet them at a library or a church. It requires a little more travel from us, but it means so much to people who just would not have been able to come.” And Blatt said being able to access services can have a ripple effect, potentially preventing survivors from resorting to harmful behavior such as substance abuse or suicide. “I get goosebumps going into work almost every day, hearing about the work that we do and knowing we’re a one-of-a-kind program in northeast Iowa,” Blatt said. “Right now, mental health is one of the biggest topics … and when we are able to provide this support, we are doing suicide prevention. It prevents substance abuse. It provides education — trauma-informed education — so people can make more-informed decisions in their lives. The work we do goes so much further beyond what we could ever tell you in this room.” Blatt said private donations and volunteers are always welcome at Riverview Center, which has an office at 1014 S. Mill St. No. 3 in Decorah. For more information, call 563380-3332 or visit riverviewcenter.org.

Board of supervisors recognizes National Mentoring Month Pictured (from left to right) are Cindy Simpson, Steve Kelsay, Elaine Holthaus, Mark Vick, Ellie Shelton, Dan Langreck, Colinne McCaan, Shirley Vermace, Mark Faldet, Lanie Luensman, Carson Eggland and Eva Fassbinder Brummel. The group gathered for a photo Monday morning, during the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors meeting, after the supervisors signed a proclamation recognizing January as National Mentoring Month. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

DPL Technology and Facilities Manager Jon Pankow helps an older adult couple use one of the free-use computers at the local library. (Photo submitted)

Farmland values continued from front local factors — such as investor-driven demand for recreational land in south-central Iowa — these exceptions were not enough to counteract broader declines statewide.” Chandio said that when adjusting for inflation, the 2024 average value is 2.5 percent lower than 2013’s inflation-adjusted values. “Although the dollar amount for land in 2024 is higher than it was in 2013, inflation has reduced the real value of those dollars,” she said. “Simply put, $11,467 per acre in 2024 buys less in terms of goods and services than $8,716 per acre did in 2013. This means that, while nominal prices have risen, landowners are not necessarily wealthier in terms of real purchasing power compared to a decade ago.” Iowa’s farmland values aren’t expected to stop falling, either. Chandio said that, looking ahead to 2025, the forecast for Iowa farmland values suggests “modest declines may continue.” “Falling commodity prices are expected to keep farm incomes under pressure, which in turn reduces land values,” she explained. “While lower inflation is likely to lead to slightly-reduced interest rates, the effects of these reductions may not be felt immediately. Interest rate changes typically take time — sometimes up to a decade — to be fully reflected in land values. At present, the lingering effects of rate hikes from 2022, and the high rates that persisted through 2023 and much of 2024, continue to weigh on the market and are likely to exert downward pressure for the next couple

of years. Without substantial rate cuts in 2025, which are not part of the Federal Reserve’s current plan, the earlier rate increases will remain a significant headwind.” Additionally, while lower inflation may stabilize costs, that doesn’t mean prices — including input costs — will drop. Instead, Chandio said lower inflation signals that prices are no longer increasing as rapidly, but farmers will still contend with elevated expenses. “These persistent costs, coupled with high borrowing rates, will likely continue to limit net incomes and, by extension, land values in 2025 — unless borrowing costs decline significantly and quickly,” she said. “As things stand, it seems reasonable to expect this current period of adjustment to extend for another year or two. This cautious outlook is shared by most survey respondents, with 58 percent predicting declines in land values over the next year, though most expect these to be modest — at less than 5 percent.” Chandio said the long-term view, however, is much more optimistic. “A significant 80 percent of respondents expect land values to rise over the next five years — with 36 percent forecasting increases of 10–20 percent,” Chandio said. “This confidence reflects expectations of stable or slightly-improving commodity prices and the gradual easing of economic pressures. While the short term may be challenging, the market’s fundamental strength and resilience point to a more positive trajectory in the years ahead.”

• TRIMMING • REMOVAL • STORM DAMAGE DECORAH BASED • UTILITY FULLY INSURED LINES FREE ESTIMATES • CLIMBERS dotzenrodtreeservice@gmail.com AVAILABLE 319-361-6856

COMMUNITY

Scouts complete annual Christmas tree service project Boy Scout Troop 66 undertook its annual Christmas tree pick-up service project on Saturday, Jan. 4 in Decorah. The public was encouraged to place their live trees on the curb by 8 a.m. that morning for the scouts to remove as part of the project. Scout Leader Jeremy Smith said the troop picked up an estimated 100 trees around town this year. Scouts pictured here picking up Christmas trees over the weekend were (from left to right) Gabe Creek, Christian Volz, Daniel Bean, Quade Buening, Simon Potvin, Johnathan Bean and Dak Sabin. (Photo by Roz Weis)

Father-daughter duo plan cello performance Good Shepherd Lutheran Church will be hosting a new-music concert by Vcs – Contemporary Cello Duo at 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12 at the church — 701 Iowa Ave. in Decorah. Vcs is comprised of Craig Hultgren and his daughter Shelby Camp. Hultgren has had more than 300 solo compositions created for him, and he now resides outside of Decorah as the farmer-cellist. This is the first performance the cello duo will be presenting before they travel to the New York City area, where they will repeat the program a number of times. The program will feature several musical styles, ranging from avant-garde, atonal compositions to cross-over pop, jazz and Latin music. Vcs will be premiering Two-Part Variations on Axel F by UK composer Paul Ayres and a brand-new duo cello arrangement by Owen Speas of AiRA by the young Latin songwriter Gustavo Andres. Admission to the performance is free and the public is welcome to

Craig Hultgren (pictured) and his daughter Shelby Camp will perform as a cello duo Sunday, Jan. 12 at Good Shepard Lutheran Church in Decorah. (Photo submitted)

attend. Currently, Hultgren is president of the Oneota Valley Community Orchestra Board of Directors in Decorah and also serves as secretary for the Iowa Composers Forum, having completed three years as chair. Camp is a music major with a concentration in cello performance at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey, where she currently serves as principal cellist of both the university’s orchestra and string ensemble. She has received a scholarship there to study under renowned cellist Udi Bar-David. Camp began her musical journey at the age of 5, studying with her father. She was invited to perform as a soloist with the Moscow Ballet at the age of 13, and she was later accepted into the Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham and continued her education at the University of North Alabama, where she won the Young Artist Concerto Competition as a freshman.

Decorah Chorale to hold Whittle previously said he er, the three-way race required auditions January 11

Whittle

continued from front

was looking forward to having meaningful discussions and building relationships with Decorah’s residents as a city council member. “It’s not news to anyone that we are living in polarizing times, and this element of the work can be an intimidating one, but I feel that I am well suited to be able to listen to and hold respectful civil discussions with all types of people,” Whittle told the Decorah Leader as part of a candidate Q&A in early December. Whittle described himself as a small business owner, noting he founded Big Driftless — a retail location specializing in handmade outdoor gear — in 2018. Whittle said he sees a lack of affordable housing in Decorah, and he feels the issue is linked to the cost of affordable downtown retail space. “I would like to explore potential incentive programs for property owners to offer long-term rentals over shortterm rentals, and for vacant unused spaces in downtown buildings to be renovated into more housing options,” Whittle said during the December Q&A. “I also like the idea of ADU — Accessory Dwelling Unit — programs that would allow homeowners to transform things like detached garages or in-law units into rental property options.” Whittle was initially one of three candidates to join the race for an open at-large seat on the Decorah City Council, after former Decorah Councilman At Large Ross Hadley stepped down from his position in the fall of 2024. The remaining city council opted to hold a special election to fill Hadley’s seat, and Whittle, along with Klocke and candidate Paul Wanless, began campaigning for the position. Voters first headed to the polls on Dec. 10, 2024. Howev-

candidates to earn more than 50 percent support in order to be declared the winner. None of the three crossed that threshold during last month’s special election — though the 673 ballots cast in Whittle’s put him less than 2 percent away from an outright victory, and Klocke was about 100 votes behind him. Wanless, who earned 129 votes in December was eliminated from the race, while Klocke and Whittle prepared to square off again at the ballot box Tuesday. The unofficial election night tallies show Whittle gained more than 100 votes among absentee voters, compared to the votes he received during the three-way race in December. County election officials reported Tuesday’s voting totals by polling location, and unofficial election results show both candidates gained more than 30 votes among residents of Wards 1 and 2, compared to last month’s totals — Klocke’s increase of 38 votes was slightly ahead of Whittle’s gain of 33 votes. Results from Wards 3A and 3B were the most similar to the December tallies. Voters at that polling location cast 156 ballots in Whittles favor compared to 141 in December, while 96 voters favored Klocke, compared to 92 last month. City officials said Whittle will likely be sworn in during the Decorah City Council’s Jan. 21 meeting and take his seat immediately. Whittle is expected to serve on the council until at least Dec. 31, 2025 — what would have been the end of Hadley’s most recent term. The at-large council seat will then be placed on the ballot again. Whittle will then need to file new candidacy papers if he intends to retain a position on the council.

The Decorah Chorale, an adult mixed chorus with members from northeast Iowa and southeast Minnesota, is holding auditions for new singers interested in joining for the spring term. Auditions will be held from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 in the Decorah High School choir room on a first-come, first-served basis. The short audition will assess vocal and musical skills – no prepared piece is necessary. Auditions will be

held with the chorale’s artistic director Jason Rausch. Participants may enter the high school from the west parking lot, door 29. Auditions may be scheduled by emailing decorahchoraledirector@gmail.com. Questions may also be directed to that email address. The first rehearsal for the chorus’ spring term will be Sunday, Jan. 19. Visit www.decorahchorale.org for a full schedule.

Community briefs Decorah Library invites public to Toddler Thursdays The public is invited to kick off Thursday mornings at the Decorah Public Library with two back-to-back events designed for toddlers and their caregivers. Circle Song will begin at 9:30 a.m., and attendees can groove with lively sing-alongs featuring drumming, shaking and dancing to children’s tunes. The library will then host Stay and Play at 10 a.m. Attendees may enjoy a complimentary cup of Impact Coffee while children explore social play. Toddler Thursday takes place weekly at Decorah Public Library. Programs are conducted on a drop-in basis, with no registration required.

Adams to speak to Lions Club next week

The Decorah Lions Club will be meeting at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 at the All Vets Club on State Street in Decorah. Bonnie Adams will speak to the group about the Iowa Veterans Washington DC Honor Tour. This event has been held during the Labor Day weekend in the past. Adams will be the guest of Lions Club member Del Fure. Lions Club International is a service organization dedicated to serving the needs of individuals, the community, the state, the country and the world. Programs include sight conservation, hearing, diabetes awareness, youth outreach, international relations and environmental issues. The Decorah Lions Club meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. For more information and membership application, contact Brad Schwartz by email at beschwartz@salamander. com or text 563-419-4020.

Decorah Area Quilters to meet

The Decorah Area Quilters will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 at ArtHaus in Decorah. After a welcome and introductions, members will be sharing any of their new projects - and any quilt-based Christmas gifts - during a show and tell session. The program for the evening will be Facing a Quilt, presented by Katheryn Russi, a local quilt artist. A facing provides an edge to a quilt without the need for binding - often used for contemporary quilts or art pieces. The Decorah

Area Quilters meet the second Tuesday of each month. Each meeting will consist of a brief welcome and introductions, show-and-tell, a question and answer session and a few minutes to talk with other quilters. The cost is $2 per meeting or $5 for the entire year. The public is welcome. For more information, contact Mike Ellingsen at 507-602-0322 or Jarret Johnson at 563-419-6952.

Library, Pulpit Rock Brewing to host ‘Boards and Brews’

Decorah Public Library and Pulpit Rock Brewing Company invite adults age 21 and over to step away from their screens and step into the world of tabletop games during “Boards and Brews,” a special community-building event from 7-9 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22 at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company. The free event is to be the first in a series of community game nights and will feature a variety of classic and modern board games, along with the option for participants to bring their personal favorites to share and play. Beverages will be available for purchase. “This program is all about fostering genuine human connection in a relaxed, welcoming environment,” said Zach RowHeyveld, assistant director at Decorah Public Library. “We’re thrilled to partner with Pulpit Rock Brewing Company to offer a night of good games, great drinks, and meaningful interactions.” For more information, contact Decorah Public Library at 563-382-3717.

The Depot Outlet to hold Annual Meeting of Members

The Depot Outlet in Decorah will hold its 50th Annual Meeting of Members at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21 at Stone Ridge Community Church, located at 1111 Montgomery St. in Decorah. The meeting will review the financials and events of the past year and provide information regarding the grants the Depot Outlet has given to Winneshiek County organizations. The Depot Outlet will close at noon on Jan. 21 to allow staff to attend. In case of inclement weather, listen for cancellation notices on the local radio stations. The Annual Meeting of Members is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend.

Public invited to community conversation with councilwoman Decorah City Councilwoman Emily Neal will host a community conversation at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 at Impact Coffee. All residents of Decorah are welcome to attend, ask questions and share their thoughts on the upcoming city budget session, ongoing city priorities and the city’s March 4 municipal electric utility referendum. Neal is currently serving her

second term on the Decorah City Council. She was first elected as the Ward 2 council member in 2019; then in 2023, Neal was elected as one of the two at-large council memebers. “One of my most important jobs on council is to listen to my constituents and to share my perspectives as their elected representative,” Neal said. “As we have an upcoming budget

session at the end of the month and a scheduled referendum for a municipal electric utility in March, this is a good chance for folks to get together and share ideas.” The city is considering several large projects this coming year, including the development of a baseball/softball complex on Old Stage Road, the reconstruction of Heivly Street

and the formulation of plans to address needs at the city’s fire station. In addition, the city has scheduled a referendum on March 4 to consider establishing a municipal electric utility. This would give the City of Decorah the legal standing needed to explore this option further and learn how a MEU might benefit Decorah.

Chamber draws 20 winners in Countdown to Christmas

More than 40 of Decorah’s small businesses collaborated in the Decorah Area Chamber’s Countdown to Christmas this year. The shop local event afforded customers a chance to win gift bags for every $25 spent locally. Slips were drawn four times during the month of December, with a total of 20 winners. Each gift bag was filled with more than $200 in gift cards and prizes contributed by the local businesses. “Our small businesses work extra hard during the holidays, create memorable in-store experiences, and take time to add holiday magic to their spaces,” said Decorah Area Chamber Director Jessical Rilling. “We are blessed to have such a di-

versity of stores in our town - truly making it possible to check off most of a gift list. The Countdown to Christmas is about loving our local shops and about consumers’ commitment to buy gifts locally. We, of course, love giving out 20 gift bags, but the real gift is a strong local economy and a downtown district that can thrive.” The chamber offered its congratulations to the 2024 Countdown to Christmas Winners: Karen Micheal of West Union, shopped at J.Tupy’s Cassie Fouts of Ossian, shopped at Magic Morpho Anna Shewey of Decorah, shopped at Ace Kitchen Place

Mike Dahl of Cresco, shopped at Fisk Farm & Home Dacia Bestor of Harmony, shopped at Market 52 Helen Snell of Decorah, shopped at Agora Arts Shelly Bast of New Hampton, shopped at Rockweiler Appliance and TV Sarah Blair of Decorah, shopped at Modish Arlene Sinclair of Stewartville, shopped at Heavenly Made Gifts and The Gnome Store Erica Eiken of Canton, shopped at Fisk Farm and Home Spencer Rix of Decorah, shopped at Cardboard Robot Cody Mincks of Decorah, shopped at Coffee Break

Britney Todd of Decorah, shopped at Rockweiler Appliance & TV Jeanne Gullekson of Decorah, shopped at KL Design David Farwell of Spillville, shopped at Driftless Botanicals Mitch Hemesath of Decorah, shopped at Fisk Farm & Home Erica Riha of Decorah, shopped at DRiFT: Strength + Yoga Center Tami Schmitt of Waucoma, shopped at Ace Kitchen Place Andrew Casper of Decorah, shopped at The Perfect Edge Jeremy Thompson of Decorah, shopped at Hammel Jewelers

PUBLIC NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS/NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

Board Minutes December 16, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am December 16, 2024 with Kelsay, Vick, Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order. Members of the Frankville Water Board met with the Board of Supervisors to discuss the additional treatment for high iron content in the water system. They requested the Board consider funding $4500 of the implementation cost of the system. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to approve $4500 for the Frankville Water Board to cover installation of the new system. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting and the claims filed with the Board. Motion carried unanimously. Members of the Winneshiek County Pioneer Cemetery Commission met with the Board to review 2024 projects and request funding for FY26. Trisha Wilkins, NEIA Community Action Director, met with the Board to review programs and request funding for FY26. Jayne Schultz, County Recorder, met with the Board to review her FY26 budget. Members of the Winneshiek County Historic Preservation Commission met with the Board to give project updates and request funding for FY26. Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to review road matters. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to approve the hire after pre-employment physicals of Andy Norton for the Signman position. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to approve the MOU with Fillmore and Houston County Townships for Bridge Inspections. Motion carried unanimously. Andy Van Der Maaten, County Attorney, met with the Board to discuss county issues. Tom Murray met with the Board to describe his experiences on the Conservation Board and express concerns with the process of appointing Dan Langreck to the Conservation Board at the December 9th meeting. Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Faldet to appoint Dr. Janet Ryan and Allison Schultz to the Board of Health for three year terms. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to appoint Halley Wise, Carleton Haugen, and Stacey Gossling to the Pioneer Cemetery Commission for three year terms. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to appoint Ellen Rockne to the Compensation Commission for Eminent Domain. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Vick to approve the appointments by Benjamin Steines, County Auditor, of Lynne Bullerman, Lauri Kaeser, and Tony Clarke as Deputy Auditors. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to sign the paperwork for the acceptance of the SRF Loan Forgiveness for the Festina Sewer Project. Motion carried unanimously. Auditor Steines reviewed the results of the December 10th Special Election for the vacancy on the Decorah City Council. Moved

by Faldet and seconded by Vick to approve the Canvass Summary and Abstract of Votes. Motion carried unanimously. Vermace discussed the Conservation Board appointment made at the December 9th meeting. She reviewed several concerns she had with the process. She asked if any of the three members who had voted affirmatively would consider a motion to reconsider the action. No motion to reconsider was made. The Board reviewed miscellaneous budget items. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, January 6, 2025. Motion carried unanimously. Benjamin D. Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Claims 12-16-2024 General Basic Fund Allamakee-Clayton Electric, Utility............................................. 166.32 Anderson Law Office, Legal Services................................125.00 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service...................... 2035.70 Bodensteiner Implement Company, Services.......................................... 295.08 Bruening Rock Prod, Materials....... 3185.57 Casper Plumbing & Heating, Inc, Services.......................................... 274.89 CenturyLink, Telephone Service.......................... 766.24 Column Software PBC, Publications...................................... 36.16 Copyland, Printing............................ 162.50 Culligan, Services..............................130.79 Christian Cutsforth, Reimbursement.................................20.00 Dean Dorton, Services.....................1800.00 Decorah Electric Inc, Services.......... 201.44 Decorah Leader, Publications.......... 2404.15 Decorah Mobile Glass, Services.........75.00 Decorah Tire Service, Services.........643.36 Drilling All Season Sports, Parts....... 999.99 Fareway Stores, Supplies.................... 26.97 Farmers Union Co-op, Supplies........ 263.00 Ossian Bee, Publications..................... 65.00 Galls, LLC, Supplies........................... 62.83 Teresa Gehling, Mileage......................32.00 Christina Goeden, Reimbursement..... 30.00 GrapeTree Medical Staffing LLC, Services.......................................... 480.00 Hageman Cleaning, Services.............120.00 Hawkeye Sanitation, Inc, Services....100.00 Holiday Inn Des Moines Airport Lodging..........................................772.80 Huber’s Store, Supplies.......................78.65 IA Public Health Association Membership......................................20.00 ibbi, llc, Supplies.................................74.62 IDALS, Fees........................................15.00 Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, Registration...................................... 10.00 Iowa Prison Industries, Signs............601.08 John Deere Financial, Supplies.........344.93 LA Communications, Inc, Advertising.....................................400.00 Leon’s Auto Repair, Services..............77.25 Lynch Dallas, P.C., Legal Services...... 25.00 Anna Mark M.D., Services................300.00 Hanna Meyer, Reimbursement............20.00 MiBroadband, Services.....................210.00 Midwest Automatic Fire, Services....340.00 Midwest Group Benefits, Fees..........252.00 MWSCO, Parts..................................101.21 Napa Auto Parts, Parts.........................53.06 NE IA Comm Action, Services.......3079.74 Evan Neubauer, Reimbursement.........20.00 Pitney Bowes bank Inc., Postage....1400.00 Quadient Fiance USA, Inc., Postage.........................................2010.00 Ricoh USA Inc, Maintenance Agreement.................924.65 Gregg Rude, Services..........................20.00 Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services..........................................463.50 Barb Schroeder, Reimbursement.........25.14 Jeanne Sebastian, Reimbursement...... 30.00 Steve’s Car Care, Services..................20.25 The Depot Outlet, Materials................54.00 Thrifty White Pharmacy, Services.....479.19 United States Postal Service, Payment..........................................100.00 Upper Explorerland RPC, Services........................................ 1000.00 US Police Canine Association, Membership...................................... 50.00 Vestis, Services..................................141.90 Viking Pest Control, Services..........1070.00 Weis Buick GMC, Services............... 501.00 Ryan Wiltgen, Reimbursement............27.16 Windstream, Telephone Service.......... 51.55 General Supplemental Fund Mark Albers, Election Worker.............15.00 Leslie Battle, Election Worker.......... 217.50 Timothy Borseth, Election Worker....190.18 Lori Burras, Election Worker............187.50 Copyland, Printing.......................... 2888.42 Mary Fitch, Election Worker...............40.72 Marcia Fox, Election Worker............187.50 Lois Kuennen, Election Worker........225.00 Patricia Lien, Election Worker............30.00 Elaine Lore, Election Worker............217.50 Diane Lovstuen, Election Worker.....234.25 Mail Services, Services...................5046.68 Jill Marquardt, Election Worker........217.50 Susan McKone-Burks, Election Woker...............................187.50 Jody Meyer, Election Worker............217.50 Dennis Peterson, Election Worker.....217.50 Elaine Saint Clair, Election Worker.... 30.00 Jane Vande Berg, Election Worker....217.50 Water Testing Grant Fund State Hygienic Laboratory, Services.......................................... 330.00 Rural Services Basic Fund Bodensteiner Implement Company Equipment................................ 113000.00 Diamond Mowers LLC, Equipment.................................. 30733.00 Drilling All Season Sports, Supplies.......................................... 679.98 Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel...........................125.36 Winn Co Landfill, Fees......................839.80 Secondary Road Fund Agvantage FS Inc, Propane...........23722.09 All States Ag Parts-131464, Parts....... 71.78 Alliant Energy, Utilities..................... 305.65 Anderson Law Office, Legal Services................................125.00 Becker Hardware, Inc., Supplies..... 1007.48 Bruening Rock Prod, Materials..... 41810.73 Calmar Courier, Publications.............. 37.50 City of Ridgeway, Utilities.................. 29.26 Decorah Mobile Glass, Services.......100.00 Hovden Oil Co, Fuel......................... 752.64 John Deere Financial, Supplies......... 617.68 Kahn Tile Supply, LLC, Supplies......440.00 Kevin & Stacey Moellers, Septic Pumping............................1050.00 Jeffrey Kuboushek, Reimbursement...17.30 Michael Kueny, Reimbursement.......845.67 Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Services........................................1409.64 Ridgeway Lumber, Materials..............30.45 UnityPoint Clinic, Services.................84.00 Vestis, Services................................1328.12 Weis Buick GMC, Services...............659.33 Michael Weis, Roads.......................1208.15 Winn Co Landfill, Fees....................6882.56 WinnMed, Services........................... 232.00 Ziegler Inc, Services........................ 3516.45 County Assessor Agency Fund Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel...........................153.28 E911 Surcharge Fund Black Hills Energy Natural Gas Service..........................38.16 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities....... 598.01 Emergency Management Comm Casey’s Business MasterCard, Fuel.................................................183.58 Winneshiek Co Health Ins Fund Assured Partners Great Plains, Services......................................10000.00 Midwest Group Benefits, Health Insurance........................... 5702.98 Midwest Group Benefits, Fees..........945.00 Wellmark, Insurance....................135094.56 Grand Total.................................. 424940.61 Decorah (Iowa) Leader January 9, 2025 NOTICE OF PROOF OF WILL WITHOUT ADMINISTRATION, NOTICE OF TRUST, AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS, HEIRS, SPOUSE AND BENEFICIARIES IN THE MATTER OF THE ROBERT M. REILLY REVOCABLE TRUST, DATED MAY 19, 1997 To all persons regarding Robert M. Reilly, deceased, who died on or about November 1, 2024: You are hereby notified that on December 19, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Robert M. Reilly, deceased, bearing the date of June 8, 2022, was admitted to probate in the District Court of Winneshiek County, Iowa (ESPR 016354), and there will be no present administration of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the District Court of the above 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 the surviving spouse and all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred. You are further notified that Catherine M.

Reilly is the trustee of the Robert M. Reilly Revocable Trust, dated May 19, 1997. Any action to contest the validity of the trust must be brought in the District Court of Winneshiek County, Iowa, within the later to occur of four months from the date of second publication of this notice or thirty (30) days from the date of mailing this notice to all heirs of the decedent, spouse of the decedent and beneficiaries under the trust whose identifies are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred. You are further notified that such Will designates the Robert M. Reilly Revocable Trust, dated May 19, 1997 as the residual beneficiary of the estate, that all persons indebted to the Decedent, the estate of the Decedent, or the Trust are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned trustee, and that any person or entity possessing a claim against the Decedent, the estate of the Decedent, or the Trust must mail proof of the claim to the trustee at the address listed below by certified mail, return receipt requested, by the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or thirty days from the date of mailing this notice if required, or the claim shall be forever barred, unless paid or otherwise satisfied. Dated: December 23, 2024. Robert M. Reilly Revocable Trust, dated May 19, 1997 Catherine M. Reilly, Petitioner and Trustee 203 N. Mary Street Ossian, IA 52161 Donald L. Johnson Shuttleworth & Ingersoll, P.L.C. 235 Sixth Street S.E., P.O. Box 2107 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52406-2107 ATTORNEYS FOR THE TRUSTEE Date of second publication January 9, 2025 Decorah (Iowa) Leader January 2 & 9, 2025 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JEAN M. VOBR, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016356 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Jean M. Vobr, Deceased, who died on or about December 1st, 2024: You are hereby notified that on December 31st, 2024 the Last Will and Testament of Jean M. Vobr, deceased, bearing date of February 15th, 1984, was admitted to probate in the above-named court and that Robert J. Vobr 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 date of 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 January 3, 2025. Robert J. Vobr, Executor 10699 345th Avenue Cresco, IA 52136 Joseph P. Braun, ICIS#: AT0001120 Attorney for Executor ELWOOD, O’DONOHOE, BRAUN & WHITE, LLP 217 North Elm Street PO Box 377 Cresco, IA 52136 Date of second publication: January 16, 2025 Decorah (Iowa) Leader January 9 & 16, 2025 Decorah Community School Board Special School Board Meeting Minutes Central Administration Office Monday, January 6, 2025 12:00 p.m. (noon) Present: President Cindy Goodner, Directors: Ron Fadness and Aaron Zander. Superintendent Dr. Tim Cronin, Director of Business Services Cathy Dietzenbach, Staff, News Media, and Guests. President Gooder and Director Zander attended via Zoom. Absent: Directors Darling and Sand. President Goodner called to order the special school board meeting at 12:00 p.m. Director Zander read the mission statement. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to approve the agenda as presented. Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to approve the Personnel Listing as presented. Motion carried by all voting aye. New Hires: a. Casey Bouska (8” Grade Boys Basketball Coach) Level E, Step 5 b. Al Ludeking (8” Grade Boys Track Coach) Level E, Step 5 c. Alyssa Ryan (Carrie Lee Associate) Step 1 d. Carrie McCartney-Vincent (High School Associate) Step 1, Lane 1 e. Dawn Schweizer (High School Associate) Step 3, Lane 1 Resignations: a. Michelle Nesteby (High School Special Education Teacher) Superintendent Dr. Cronin and Assistant Director of Transportation Chris Pronschinske updated the board on the clean school bus program grant application. The application is for a future propane bus purchase with the understanding of replacing an old bus and taking it out of commission. The grant funds aren’t guaranteed, but if approved, the district would receive $25,000 towards the purchase of a propane bus. Motion: Director Zander moved, seconded by Director Fadness to approve the Clean School Bus Program Grant Application as presented by administration. Motin carried by all voting aye. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:10 p.m. Cindy Goodner, Board President Darlene Woodhouse, Board Secretary Decorah (Iowa) Leader January 9, 2025

Kasemeier change of venue request denied Jury pool info granted, trial rescheduled A Waukon man charged with murdering his wife in January of 2024 was denied a recent request for a change of venue, but he was granted a request for jury pool information, with certain restrictions. Brandon Kasemeier, age 40, of Waukon faces a charge of first-degree murder in the shooting death of his estranged wife Jami Kasemeier, who was found deceased in his residence Jan. 22, 2024. He requested a change of venue in mid-December, claiming he would not receive a fair trial in Allamakee County due to news cover-

Brandon Kasemeier age, his attorney argued would cause difficulty in finding an

impartial jury. A private investigator hired as part of Kasemeier’s defense will be allowed to ask Allamakee County residents how much he or she knows about the trial, and the results could be used to potentially renew Kasemeier’s motion for a change of venue if he can show there is a substantial likelihood a fair and impartial trial is not possible in Allamakee County. The trial, which was scheduled to begin later this month, has been rescheduled for May of 2025.

Law Enforcement Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office

Dalton Guess, age 24, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 7:50 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31 on an arrest warrant for violation of parole. Michael Pozsgay, age 35, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 2:05 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 1 on two arrest/bench warrants. Robert William Gronemann, age 53, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, was charged with public intoxication — first offense — at approximately 10:22 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 1 in the 400 block of Claiborne Drive in Decorah. A criminal complaint said Gronemann was intoxicated when he reported to the Winneshiek County Jail around 8:50 a.m. that same day. A Waukon woman was cited for failure to yield following a col-

PUBLIC NOTICE Public Notice Winneshiek County Recycling is requesting proposals for contract hauling for the rural waste routes. There is one route per day, five days a week. The contract is a six month contract with option to renew, at the sole discretion of the County. Winneshiek County will provide the roll-offs. Please submit proposals to the auditor’s office by January 17th. Decorah (Iowa) Leader January 9, 14 & 16, 2025

lision along Frankville Road last month. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 33-year-old Kori Sue Troendle of Postville was traveling north along the road around 5:40 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 in a 2019 Ford Expedition, when a driven by 57-year old Kristy Kay Welch of Waukon exited a driveway and collided with the side of the Ford. Troendle was uninjured, according to the report, and Welch reported possible minor injuries. Damage to the Chevrolet was estimated at $3,000. Damage to the Ford was estimated at $4,000. No injuries were reported after a Waterloo man fell asleep at the wheel last month. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 42-year-old Jesse Ray Klein of Waterloo was traveling north along Highway 150 around 3:35 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19 in a 2021 Chevrolet Express and fell asleep. The report said Klein awoke just before contacting the rear of the

FOR RENT Apartment for Rent: 1-bedroom, upstairs apartment. NS/NP. 326 Washington St. Decorah. 563-4192621. 46-tf-LD-x-9

HELP WANTED

2020 Ford Super Duty driven by 49-year-old Ryan Anthony Becker of Ossian. Klein then lost control and entered the east ditch, striking what the report called a water runoff, damaging its front end. The report said both drivers said they were uninjured and declined medical treatment. No damage was reported to Becker’s truck, and damage to Klein’s Chevrolet was estimated at $11,000. All people listed may face charges and should be presumed innocent until their case is reviewed through the legal process.

CARDS OF THANKS

We wish to thank everyone for all the 50th anniversary wishes. Howard & Lorna Sande 2-1-L-15

Person needed to clean following vacation rentals at cabin located in Highlandville IA. Rentals occur 1 to 2 times weekly. Call Brenda for more information 515-681-2055. 2-4-LD-12

The family of

Lavonne “Bonnie” Syverson

Optometric Technician Our clinic provides family eye care services in addition to helping patients address a wide variety of medical ocular needs. Responsibilities with this role include taking a medical history, preliminary exam procedures, and additional medical testing as indicated. The ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment is important. Prior eye care experience is not necessary. We will assist you with the tools to learn and train with our team. If this opportunity sounds like the right fit for you, please send a cover letter and your resume to aklocke@ decoraheye.com.

1-4-LD-12

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING DECORAH CITY COUNCIL CITY OF DECORAH, IOWA TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Notice is hereby given that the Decorah City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, has set January 21, 2025, at 5:45 PM at the Council Chambers in City Hall in Decorah, Iowa, shall be the time and the place for a public hearing on a proposal to amend the Decorah Municipal Code, Title 17, Section 17.36.020 of the Municipal Code of the City of Decorah, regarding Site Plans, as follows: That Section 17.36.020 – Procedure, is amended by deleting said section and inserting in lieu thereof the following: 17.36.020 - Procedure. A. Whenever any person, firm, corporation or other group wishes to develop any tract, lot or parcel of land within the city located in any zoning district for all uses except single-family dwellings up to four-family dwellings such person shall cause to be prepared a site plan of such development and shall submit ten copies of the site plan to the zoning administrator. The provisions of this section shall also be applicable to the conversion of a single-family residence to a duplex or multi-unit dwelling and to the redevelopment, enlargement or extension of square footage of more than twenty-five percent of any commercial or industrial uses and structures existing at the time of the adoption of the ordinance codified in this title and for all uses including single-family and two-family dwellings subject to the COS regulations. The site plan shall contain such information and data as outlined herein. B. The zoning administrator shall review the site plan for compliance with this title and shall refer a copy of the site plan to the city engineer, or such other person as shall be designated from time to time by the city council, who shall review the site plan as to its compliance with other ordinances of the city and its effect upon public utilities and the public street system and submit findings as soon as possible to the planning and zoning commission. C. The zoning administrator shall also forward a copy of the site plan to each member of the planning and zoning commission. The planning and zoning commission shall, after receiving the report of the engineer and the zoning administrator, review the site plan for conformity with the regulations and standards contained herein and may confer with the developer on changes deemed advisable in such site plan. D. The planning and zoning commission shall forward its recommendation, either for approval or disapproval of the site plan, to the city council within forty-five days of the date of the submission of the site plan. If the commission does not act within forty-five days, the site plan shall be deemed to be approved by the commission, unless the developer agrees to an extension of time. E. The commission may, in its discretion, hold a public hearing on the site plan of the proposed development and prescribe the notice thereof and to whom such notice shall be given. F. The city council shall, upon receipt of the recommendation of the planning and zoning commission, either approve or disapprove the site plan for the proposed development. G. No building permit or certificate of zoning compliance for any structure within any district in which a site plan is required shall be issued until the site plan has been approved as provided herein. H. Upon final action by the planning and zoning commission on any site plan, a copy of the site plan, with the action of the planning and zoning commission noted thereon and signed by the chairperson of the commission, shall be filed with the city clerk. I. If the zoning administrator finds that any construction or proposed construction or occupancy of a development on a tract of land for which a site plan has been approved will not substantially comply with the site plan as approved, or if the administrator finds that the construction and development of the tract is not being carried out in accordance with the development schedule filed with the site plan, the administrator shall suspend all building permits for the development and order all construction stopped until such time as the owner of the project, or the successors in interest, shall have provided satisfactory proof that the site plan will be complied with. The zoning administrator shall not issue a certificate of zoning compliance for any structure within the development while the permit for the development has been suspended pursuant to this subsection. Any person aggrieved by any decision or action of the zoning administrator under this subsection may appeal such action or decision to the board of adjustment. J. If the owner or developer of a tract of land for which a site plan has been approved determines that an extension of time is necessary or that a modification of the site plan would provide for a more appropriate or more practicable development of the site, the owner may apply for an amendment of the site plan. The planning and zoning commission may grant an extension of time or a modification of a previously approved site plan if it determines that such modification of the site plan would provide for a more appropriate development of the site. All interested persons may appear at said time and place to be heard for or against the proposed changes to the City’s Municipal Code as set out aforesaid. By order of the Decorah City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, this 16th day of December, 2024. Keri Sand-City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader January 9, 2024

305 East Water Street Decorah, IA 563-382-4279

REGIONAL ADVERTISING Help Wanted-Government POLICE OFFICER: Indianola Police Department is taking applications for the positions of Police/Patrol Officer. Obtain applications by visiting https:// indianolaiowa.applicantpro.com/jobs , choose Police Officer. Deadline 2/7/2025 EOE

Getting help is the first step to getting better. If someone you love has a problem with gambling, they likely feel powerless to control it. 1-800-BETS OFF can help. It’s a free, confidential, 24/7 resource that can help you and your loved one find an experienced treatment professional. Call 1-800-BETS OFF today to get help for them — and you.

would like to thank the staff at Wellington, Winneshiek County Hospice, Helms Funeral Home, family, friends and neighbors, and the ladies of the Springfield Church. 2-2-DL-15

AUCTION CALENDAR FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 - 10 a.m. Farm Machinery Auction. Pagel Sunlight Inc, 14073 T Ave, Sumner, IA Sweeney Auction Service 563-568-2464 www.sweeneyauctionservice. com

SPORTS

SW Warriors surge past Central 74-48 A fast start was the key for the South Winn boys basketball team (7-2, 4-2 UIC) Tuesday night as the Warriors defeated Central Elkader (4-6, 2-5 UIC) on the road 74-48. South Winn scored 18 points in the first quarter to lead 18-10 after eight minutes. That offensive prowess continued in the second in the second period, with the visiting Warriors go-

Members of the Decorah boys junior varsity basketball team this season include (front, l-r) Liam Huang, Andrew Marcum, Blake Pattison, Drake Phillips, Thomas Davis, Bryson Wemark; (back) Coach Jacob Reinhardt, Landan Gjere, Lawrence Christman, Elliot Berland, Gabe Monroe, Garrett Henry, Jack DeLaRosa, Austin Bina, Tyler Shaw and Parker Low. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

ing into the locker room happy with a 43-27 lead. Central outscored the visitors 13-12 in the third frame before South Winn stormed back in the final eight minutes to pour in 19 and claim the UIC win. Individual stats were unavailable at press time.

South Winn Central

18 25 12 19 74 10 16 13 9 48

Kaden Barton-Franzen makes his way into the lane toward the basket in a recent road Warrior contest. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Good effort by SW girls in UIC action

Donning the freshman jerseys for the Decorah boys basketball program are (front, l-r) Peyton Kimball, Jalen Klees, Jacob Stevens, Davis Walter, Ray Hayek, Lucas Weigle; (back) Coach Josh Wiepert, Leo Waskow, Bennett Coppola, Max Goodner, Hayden Einck, Brooks Dodd, Evan Roe, Breyden McCain and Camden Kerner. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

A late run by Central Elkader (6-5, 4-4 UIC) was enough for the Warriors to pick up a victory Tuesday night in Elkader, defeating the South Winn girls’ basketball team (4-6, 3-5 UIC) 47-40. It was a close first half, with South Winn trailing 17-8 after the first quarter. South Winn came back to within two at the half 23-21 in the second period. The two Warrior squads combined for 17 points in the third with South Winn pulling within one 31-30. Central came out strong in the final eight minutes to outscore the visitors 16-10 to take the win. We started slow and got down by more then 10 in the first quarter but fought back,” said coach Mike Gehling. “Central seemed to always hit a big shot when we would get the game close. We did some good things at times but we weren’t able to put it all together for the whole game. We have to just

keep working on improving everyday.” Individual stats were unavail-

able at press time.

South Winn Central

8 13 17 6

9 10 40 8 16 47

South Winn freshman Vanessa Bullerman brings the ball over the time line and looks to the middle of the lane. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Runner-up finish for Jansen at Osage tourney

Those stepping onto the court for the Decorah girls’ junior varsity team in 2024-25 are (front, l-r) Margaret Hahn, Grace Huinker, Regine Hougen, Anna Knaack, Claudia Dixon; (back) Nora Klegseth, Grace Tangen, Ella Christopher, Kate Pattison and Allison Bigler. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

Osage Invite team scores 1. Cedar Falls 273.5; 2. Osage 253.5; 3. East Buchanan 180; 4. Lewis Central 144.5; 5. Mason City 141; 6. Lake Mills 103; 7. Clear Lake 99.5; 8. Alburnett 94; 9. New Hampton 90; 10. Nevada 72; 11. Crestwood 71.5; 12. Dubuque Senior 66; 13. Saint Ansgar 57; 14. Waukon 43; 15. Don Bosco 24; 15. South Winn 24; 17. NashuaPlainfield 20; 18. NorthwoodKensett 11; 19. Eagle Grove 8

After a long holiday layoff, the South Winn girls’ wrestling team returned to action Thursday, Jan. 2, as one of the 19 teams competing in the Osage varsity and junior varsity tournament. Maddy Jansen picked up all 24 points for the Warriors who finished 15th in the team stand-

Coming up in area varsity sports

Members of the South Winn junior varsity girls’ basketball team for 2024-25 are (front, l-r) Helen Frana, Annie Hageman, Jaden Timp, Emmy Gehling, Charlotte Hageman; (back) Gracie Thompson, Vanessa Bullerman, Claire Becker, Alexis Johanningmeier, Chloe Wiltgen and Clara Kriener. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Members of the South Winn boys’ junior varsity basketball team are (front, l-r) Jackson Hemesath, Hugh Conway, Cameron Einck, Andy Acahua; (back) Caden Tieskoetter, Landon Livingood, Trevor Sbiral, Ethan Oyloe and Adam Schmitt. Not pictured is Brendon Riehle. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Jan. 9 – SW b wr at UIC dual tnmt. (Elkader), 4 p.m.; SW g wr at Waukon, 5 p.m.; Dec g/b wr vs. Crestwood, 5:30 p.m.; TV g/b bb vs. Riceville, 6:15 p.m.; Dec g bb at Kee, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 – Dec bowl vs. Oelwein, 4 p.m.; SW g wr at Central tnmt., 4:30 p.m.; SW g/b bb at Kee, 6:15 p.m.; TV g/b bb at Postville, 6:15 p.m.; Dec b bb at Charles City, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 11 – Dec g wr at Anamosa tnmt., 9:30 a.m.; Dec b wr at Clarion-Goldfield-Dows tnmt., 10 a.m.; SW b wr at Tripoli tnmt., 10 a.m.; Dec b swim at Waterloo West, 12:30 p.m.; Dec g/b bb vs. Cascade, 2:30 p.m. Jan. 13 – SW g wr hosts quad, 7:15 p.m.; Dec b bb vs. Spencer (at NIACC), 7:30 p.m. Jan. 14 – Dec g wr at WaverlyShell Rock, 5:30 p.m.; Dec b wr at Caledonia, 6 p.m.; SW g/b bb vs. Postville, 6:15 p.m.; TV g/b bb vs. MFL MarMac, 6:15 p.m.; Dec g bb vs. Waverly-Shell Rock, 7:30 p.m.

ings. Cedar Falls took the top spot with 273.5 points, with the host Green Devils claiming runner-up with 253.5 points. East Buchanan rounded out the top three teams with 180 points. Jansen, a junior, threw her first two opponents of the day pinning Chloe Gorby of Cedar Falls in 3:06 and East Buchanan’s Destiny Krum in 5:15. A medical forfeit by Lainey Schreck of Cedar Falls sent the Warrior grappler into the 135-pound finals against Lyni Gusick of Alburnett who proved to be too much for Jansen. The Warrior was turned to her back in 1:32, leaving her second. Isabelle Goltz (110) and McKenna Stanley (115) also were on the mats in varsity competition, while Sophia Dvorak (115) and Mackenzi

Maxwell (130) competed in junior varsity matches. Individual results 110 – Isabelle Goltz, DNP Rd. 1 – LBF in 0:32 to Erica Irvine (DB); Cons. rd. 1 – LBF in 1:24 to Lydia Bollman (Crest) 115 – McKenna Stanley, DNP Rd. 1 – LBF in 0:23 to Lauren Whitt (CF); Cons. rd. 1 – LBF in 0:42 to Evelyn Jergenson (EG) 135 – Maddy Jansen, 2nd place Rd. 1 – WBF in 3:06 over Chloe Gorby (CF); Quarterfinal – WBF in 5:15 over Destiny Krum (EB); Semifinal – won by medical forfeit over Lainey Schreck (CF); Final – LBF in 1:32 to Lyni Gusick (Alb) 115 JV – Sophia Dvorak, 4th place Rd. 1 – LBF in 3:53 to Jassie Carter (Alb); Rd. 2 – LBF in 1:54 to Avery Hundley (CF); Rd. 3 – LBF in 3:47 to Harper Winter (Wau) 130 JV – Mackenzi Maxwell, 4th place Rd. 1 – WBF in 3:13 to Keylyee Collins (EG); Rd. 2 – LBF in 0:49 to Savannah Burns (Wau); Rd. 3 – LBF in 2:15 to Aali Martinz (CL)

Hunting seasons starting to close

Iowa’s pheasant, late muzzleloader and archery deer, and archery fall turkey seasons close on Jan. 10. Squirrel, quail, partridge and grouse remain open until Jan. 31. Furbearer seasons and rabbit season is open until Feb. 28. Crow season is Jan. 14 to March 31. Beaver trapping season closes on April 15. For waterfowl, the north zone dark and light goose season closes on Jan. 11, the central zone dark and light goose season closes on Jan. 18, and the south zone dark and light goose season closes on Jan. 25. The light goose conservation order season is open Jan. 26 to May 1 statewide; additional regulations apply.

2024 hunting, fishing licenses expire Friday

All 2024 hunting and fishing licenses expire on Jan. 10, 2025. All hunters and anglers will need a 2025 license to hunt or fish beginning Jan. 11.

Members of the Turkey Valley boys’ junior varsity basketball team for the 2024-25 season are (front, l-r) Cole Fencl, Dawson Humpal, Abe Wemark, Isaiah Wheeler, Ryan Lukes, Braxton Steinlage; (back) head coach John Izer, Larry Vrba, Jayden Rausch, Kaden Schmidt, Wyatt Maklenburg, Caleb Kriener, Alex Hanson, assistant coach Justin Izer and volunteer coach Adam Hanson. (Photo by Becky Walz)

SPORTS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Three Vikes top podium at Belle of the Border Belle of the Border team scores 1. Osage 223.5; 2. SEP 186.5; 3. Decorah 156; 4. Mason City 148; 5. BHRV 93; 6. Forest Lake 91; 7. Humboldt 81; 8. Owatonna 59; 9. Graettinger-Terril-Ruthven 56.5; 10. Centennial 49; 11. Marshall 44; 12. St. Ansgar 33; 13. St. JamesMadelia 27; 14. FCLMC 26.5; 15. West Lyon 26; 16. Luverne 24; 17. Tri City United 22; 18. LPGE 16.5; 19. St. Peter 15; 19. Wabasso 15; 21. Kasson 13; 21. Rosemount 13; 23. Scott West 8; 24. Hutchinson 3; 25. Stewartville 0

TOP PHOTO: Reid Kuehner glides through the backstroke during a recent medley relay event. BOTTOM PHOTO: Thomas Hammel paces himself during the 200-yard freestyle at the Vikes’ lone home meet held in December. Tuesday night the Vikings traveled to Vinton-Shellsburg for a dual meet picking up the win 82-10. Individual race results were unavailable at press time and will be posted online when they become available. (Photos by Becky Walz)

Three locals were crowned champions at the Belle of the Border tournament hosted at St. James, Minnesota., Saturday. Decorah’s Chloe Sheffield, McKenzie Tollefson and Lauren Luzum brought home titles. In the team race, Osage won the day with 223.5 points. SEP claimed second with 186.5 points while Decorah was third with 156 points. At 100 pounds, Sheffield went 3-0 to win gold and move to 24-3 on the season. She earned a bye in round one, then did battle with Owatonna’s Kayla Pastika in the quarterfinals. Sheffield goy the pin in 2:35 to move to the semifinals. There, it took the Viking senior just 50 seconds to turn Piper Phillips of Mason City. In the finals, Sheffield picked up a 15-5 major decision over Osage’s Ainsley Hemann. Tollefson claimed the 142-pound title for the Vikings.

Decorah’s McKenzie Tollefson works to pin her opponent, Damiyah Williams of Mason City in the Belle of the Border finals Saturday. The junior didn’t get the fall, but did earn the title at 142 pounds by decision. (Photo courtesy of Melissa Stello) She also received a first-round bye to advance directly to the quarterfinals against Alannah Hanson of St. Ansgar. She got the pin in 2:26 to advance to the semifinal. There she squared off with Hannah Ratajczak of Marshall and picked up the fall in 3:21. Battling Mason City’s Damiyah Williams, Tollefson won by an 8-5 decision to claim the title and move to 23-4 on the season. Decorah junior Lauren Luzum (155) advanced to the finals with a first round bye and

Decorah keglers top MC

a pair of falls. In the quarterfinal, Luzum put Savana Stand of Forest Lake on her back in 35 seconds and pinned Teryn Vander Beek of SEP in 3:21. Advancing to the finals to face Cece Rock of Luverne, the Viking survived to win by 7-3 decision. She improve her overall record to 29-1. Two other Vikings reached the finals and came up just short of the title including Ana Simon at 148 pounds and Kamryn Steines at 190 pounds. Individual results 100 – Chloe Sheffield, 1st place Rd. 1 – bye; Quarterfinal – WBF in 2:35 over Kayla Pastika (Owa); Semifinal – WBF in 0:50 over Piper Phillips (MC); Final – won 15-5 maj. dec. over Ainsley Hemann (Osage) 112 – Audrey Feuerhelm, DNP Rd. 1 – LBF in 0:49 to Annica Blasko (FL); Cons. rd. 1 – bye; Cons. rd. 2 – LBF in 1:30 to Ella Als (MC) 118 – Isabella Kos, DNP Rd. 1 – LBF in 0:48 to Ivy Christensen (Osage); Cons. rd. 1 – LBF in 5:37 to Gwenevere Lieb (FCLMC) 124 – Simone Downing, 6th place Rd. 1 – bye; Quarterfinal – LBF in 1:46 to Peyton Corbin (Cent); Cons. rd. 2 – WBF in 2:44 over Lexi Ewalt (BHRV); Cons. semifinal – won 1-0 dec. over Anna Ruka (FL); 5th place match – LBF in 3:01 to Carleigh Arjes (MC)

Chloe Shefﬁeld has Osage’s Ainsley Hemann in a pretzel during the 100-pound title match. The Decorah grappler was crowned the champion following the 15-5 major decision. (Photo courtesy of Melissa Stello)

130 – Bristol Parker, DNP Rd. 1 – LBF in 3:41 to Cameron Halbur (BHRV); Cons. rd. 1 – bye; Cons. rd. 2 – LBF in 0:24 to Charlotte Ferrie (FCLMC) 136 – Amelia Wadsworth, 5th place Rd. 1 – WBF in 0:53 over Sarah Perez Cardosa (SW); Quarterﬁnal – lost 13-4 maj. dec. to Mya Holdaway

(SEP); Cons. rd. 2 – WBF in 1:53 over Sierra Bahr (Marsh); Cons. semifinal – won 14-2 maj. dec. over Mckayla Selle (Owa); 5th place match – WBF in 3:32 over Isabelle Harris (G-T-R) 142 – McKenzie Tollefson, 1st place Rd. 1 – bye; Quarterfinal – WBF in 2:26 over Alannah Hanson (St. Ans); Semifinal – WBF in 3:21 over Hannah Ratajczak (Marsh); Final – won 8-5 dec. over Damiyah Williams (MC) 148 – Ana Simon, 2nd place Rd. 1 – WBF in 3:16 over Aliah Fischer (Owa); Quarterfinal – won 13-4 maj. dec. over Bella Carlson (FL); Semifinal – WBF in 1:16 over Eliana Kooi (WL); Final – lost 10-0 maj. dec. to Skylar Slade (SEP) 155 – Lauren Luzum, 1st place Rd. 1 – bye; Quarterfinal – WBF in 0:35 over Savana Stans (FL); Semifinal – WBF in 1:24 over Teryn Vander Beek (SEP); Final – won 7-3 dec. over Cece Rock (Luv) 170 – Isabelle Alley, DNP Rd. 1 – LBF in 0:58 to Alexis Fahey (FL); Cons. rd. 1 – WBF in 0:38 over Jayne Aranda (NHRV); Cons. rd. 2 – LBF in 1:53 to Heidi Foy (Wab) 190 - Kamryn Steines, 2nd place Quarterfinal – bye; Semifinal – WBF in 1:26 over Elyza Williamson (Osage); Final – LBF in 4:38 to Josie Bishop (SEP) 235 – Madysen Lippe, 5th place Quarterfinal – lost 12-1 maj. dec. to Aniyah Smith (MC); Cons. rd. 1 – WBF in 4:52 over Ariana Thorud (FL); Cons. semifinal – LBF in 4:00 to Emma Schipper (Osage); 5th place match – won by medical forfeit over Alayna Jones (WL) 112 JV – Cassie Wilkins, 5th place Quarterfinal – WBF in 0:52 over Kamryn Berge (Kasson); Semifinal – LBF in 2:47 to Alivja Henamen (Kasson); Cons. semifinal – LBF in 2:32 to Kelsey Schmitt (LPGE); 5th place match – WBF in 3:07 over Daila Quevedo Pech (BHRV)

Sexton goes 6-0 at Clash National Wrestling Duals

Decorah’s Jace Buddenberg rolled individual games of 214 and 183 to aide in the Vikes’ win over Mason City Monday. (Photo by Becky Walz) The wins rolled in Monday night for the Decorah girls and boys bowling teams as the varsity and junior varsity squads swept Mason City at Kingpin Entertainment Center. After suffering their first dual loss in two seasons before the holiday break, the Viking boys got back on track to defeat the visitors 3,235 to 2,658. Baker game scores were 245, 179, 257, 221 and 190. Tyler Novak was 10-for-10 in fills and had 13 strikes for the Vikings in the baker games. “The boys had a great start, firing a 2,143 in round one and basically winning the match by being up 400 pins,” said coach Keith Bruening of his 4-1 Vikings. Alex Maki fired individual games of 211 and 256 to lead Decorah with senior Jordan Sims trailing the junior by two

Monday it was Marri Feuerhelm leading the Decorah girls on the lanes with individual games of 170 and 224 versus Mason City. (Photo by Becky Walz)

pins with a 242 and 223. Cain Monreal-Rice (216, 219), Jace Buddenberg (214, 183), Novak (189, 190) and Bryce Elsbernd (186, 170) also competed in the varsity competition. The Decorah girls improved to 5-0 with their 2,769 to 2300 victory over Mason City. “We showed up to win the match,” noted coach K. Bruening. “Now we hit the meat of our schedule. We will enjoy this win and get back at it.” Baker game scores for the girls were 193, 177, 150, 178 and 181. Leading the girls were Marri Feuerhelm (170, 224), Jasera Tweten (159, 254) and Karlie Einck (217, 175). Others on the lanes in varsity action were Addison Wicklund (165, 189), Rylee Averhoff (142, 149) and Asmere Jensen (135, 202).

Teams from throughout the country converged on the La Crosse Center over the weekend to partake in the Clash Boys’ National Wrestling Duals XXII, including Decorah. Friday, the Vikings competed in Bracket D and finished day one 1-2 in dual competition. Decorah’s lone win of the weekend came over Cumberland (Wisconsin) 41-29. Chatfield topped the Vikes 41-25, while Vacaville (California) defeated Decorah 44-24. Day two was a four-team round robin competition. The Vikes fell to Hastings (Minnesota) 45-22, Anoka (Minnesota) 52-15 and La Crosse Aquinas (Wisconsin) 44-28. Highlighting the weekend event, Tommy Sexton went 6-0 for the Vikes. Wrestling at 189 according to Minnesota weight divisions, the junior had a pair of tech falls on day one over Chatfield’s D’Andre Williams by a 22-7 score and DauTre Allen of Cumberland, 18-1. He finished the day with a 7-2 decision over Brady Wight of Vacaville. Day two started with Sexton throwing Hunter Hoff of Hastings in 1:10, followed by an 11-5 decision over Luke DeChene of Anoka. He put an exclamation point on his outing with a fall in 1:50 over Isaac Miller of La Crosse Aquinas. Wrestling 152 and 160 pounds during the tournament, sophomore Bill Fullhart went 5-1, while Gavin Carolan was 4-2 at 133 pounds. Decorah 25, Chatfield 41 107 – Meison Tollefson (Dec) LBF in 1:40 to Jameson Priebe (Chat); 114 – Kelton Casterton (Dec) LBF

in 2:43 to Logan Pearson (Chat); 121 – Michael Clement (Dec) LBF in 0:50 to Javier Berg (Chat); 127 – Gavin Knutson (Dec) won 17-1 tech fall over Layne Root (Chat); 133 – Gavin Carolan (Dec) won 15-3 maj. dec. over Kaisen Johnson (Chat); 139 – Will Larson (Dec) lost 12-6 dec. to Hunter Polikowsky (Chat); 145 – Kasen Tyler (Dec) lost 10-9 Dec to Alden Pearson (Chat); 152 – Bill Fullhart (Dec) won 16-0 tech fall over Wyatt Jacobson (Chat); 160 – Steven Munoz (Dec) lost 17-1 tech fall to Ayden Miner (Chat); 172 – Bradan Darling (Dec) LBF in 0:47 to Ben Carrier (Chat); 189 – Tommy Sexton (Dec) won 22-7 tech fall over D’Andre Williams (Chat); 215 – Adrian Smith (Dec) LBF in 0:32 to Will Boelter (Chat); 285 – Ethan Kuennen (Dec) WBF in 3:56 over Cole Ramaker (Chat) Decorah 41, Cumberland 29 107 – Tollefson (Dec) WBF in 0:45 over Colin Hagen (C); 114 – Casterton (Dec) LBF in 2:52 to Caleb Hile (C); 121 – Clement (Dec) WBF in 2:50 over Simon Rodriguez (C); 127 – Knutson (Dec) lost 28-9 tech fall to Braden Johnson (C); 133 – Carolan (Dec) WBF in 0:47 over Rock West (C); 139 – Larson (Dec) WBF in 3:22 over Nathan Swint (C); 145 – Tyler (Dec) won 16-6 maj. dec. over Onesimus West (C); 152 – Munoz (Dec) LBF in 0:41 to Harrison Ruppel (C); 160 – Fullhart (Dec) won 22-12 maj. dec. over Logan Peterson (C); 172 – Darling (Dec) LBF in 0:50 to Jack Owens (C); 189 – Sexton (Dec) won 18-1 tech fall over DauTre Allen (C); 215 – Smith (Dec) LBF in 2:29 to Joseph Eggert (C); 285 – Kuennen (Dec) won 9-0 maj. dec. over Gabriel Erickson (C) Decorah 24, Vacaville 44 107 – Tollefson (Dec) lost 17-1 tech fall to Gabe Martinez (V); 114 – Casterton (Dec) WBF in 3:11 over Eli Mayer (V); 121 – Clement (Dec) won 11-6 dec. over Ethan Busby (V); 127 – Knutson (Dec) lost 19-4 tech fall to Eli Almarinez (V); 133 – Carolan (Dec) WBF in 3:55 over Landon Borchers (V); 139 – Larson (Dec) LBF in 1:51 to Jack Giangrasso (V); 145 – Tyler (Dec) LBF in 1:50 to Ryan Espiritu (V); 152 – Munoz (Dec) LBF in 1:24 to Christian Timms (V); 160 – Fullhart (Dec) WBF in 1:41 over Demean Garcia (V); 172 – Darling (Dec) LBF in 0:55 to James Corbett (V); 189 – Sexton (Dec) won 7-2 dec. over

Brady Wight (V); 215 – Kuennen (Dec) lost 14-3 maj. dec. to Mario Lopez (V); 285 – Dec lost by forfeit

Decorah 22, Hastings 45 107 – Lucas Wymer (Dec) LBF in 5:19 to Sullivan McNamara (H); 114 – Tollefson (Dec) LBF in 0:33 to Beckett Edstrom (H); 121 – Casterton (Dec) LBF in 4:57 to Rocco Iallonardo (H); 127 – Knutson (Dec) WBF in 0:43 over Brock Lundstrom (H); 133 – Carolan (Dec) lost 16-2 maj. dec. to Trey Beissel (H); 139 – Larson (Dec) LBF in 4:26 to Presley McCrae (H); 145 – Tyler (Dec) won 17-11 dec. over Taylon Little Soldier (H); 152 – Fullhart (Dec) won 10-2 maj. dec. over Fletcher Peterson (H); 160 – Munoz (Dec) LBF in 1:25 to Mark Svoboda (H); 172 – Darling (Dec) lost 16-0 tech fall to Kasen Esterby (H); 189 – Sexton (Dec) WBF in 1:10 over Hunter Hoff (H); 215 – Kuennen (Dec) won 7-6 dec. over Elijah Christopher (H); 285 – Dec lost by forfeit Decorah 15, Anoka 52 107 – Tollefson (Dec) LBF in 3:30 to Declan Dahl (A); 114 – Wymer (Dec) LBF in 1:49 to Gabrielle Bragg (A); 121 – Casterton (Dec) lost 13-5 maj. dec. to Finnegan Bromenschenkel (A); 127 – Knutson (Dec) LBF in 5:22 to Owen Rhode (A); 133 – Carolan (Dec) won 16-0 tech fall over Ali Al-Hamad (A); 139

– Larson (Dec) won 22-9 maj. dec. over Gunnar Cameron (A); 145 – Tyler (Dec) LBF in 1:54 to Garrett Wittek (A); 152 – Munoz (Dec) LBF in 1:38 to Connor Smith (A); 160 – Fullhart (Dec) won 12-8 dec. over Austin West (A); 172 – Darling (Dec) LBF in 0:58 to Oliver Ollman (A); 189 – Sexton (Dec) won 11-5 dec. over Luke DeChene (A); 215 – Kuennen (Dec) LBF in 0:42 to Michael Chamberlain (A); 285 – Dec lost by forfeit

Decorah 28, LaCrosse Aquinas 44 107 – Isaac Quandahl (Dec) LBF in 1:22 to Lincoln Stanek (LA); 114 – Tollefson (Dec) WBF in 0:34 over Cal Smith (LA); 121 – Casterton (Dec) LBF in 1:53 to Martez Sheard (LA); 127 – Knutson (Dec) LBF in 1:58 to Tyler Paulson (LA); 133 – Carolan (Dec) lost 12-5 dec. to Roger Flege (LA); 139 – Larson (Dec) WBF in 2:47 over Michael Jones (LA); 145 – Tyler (Dec) won 19-2 tech fall over Grady Nicklay (LA); 152 – Fullhart (Dec) won 16-1 tech fall over Trevor Paulson (LA); 160 – Munoz (Dec) LBF in 1:19 to Waylon Hargrove (LA); 172 – Darling (Dec) lost 19-4 tech fall to Marcus Klar (LA); 189 – Sexton (Dec) WBF in 1:50 over Isaac Miller (LA); 215 – Kuennen (Dec) LBF in 0:17 to Tyson Martin (LA); 285 – Dec lost by forfeit

Adrian Smith was just one of the many wrestlers on the mats at the Boys’ National Wrestling Duals XXII for Decorah over the weekend. Here the Viking is in action from earlier this season. (Photo by Becky Walz)

SPORTS

No. 3 Vikings now 6-0 with win over Hudson

It was a high-scoring non-conference matchup Friday night as the Class 3A No. 3 Decorah boys’ basketball team (6-0, 3-0 NEIC) defeated Hudson (0-6) at home 89-64 to start the 2025 portion of the season. The Viking defense gave up 15 points in the first quarter but maintained a 21-15 advantage heading into the second. The Decorah lead stretched to 48-26 by the break and added 28 points in the third quarter to the tally to lead 76-45 with eight minutes remaining. Cael LaFrentz and Zachary Driscoll posted double-double efforts for the Vikes with LaFrentz shooting lights-out for 34 points to go with 10 rebounds. Driscoll put up 11 points and dished out 11 assists. Providing 15 points, six boards and four steals was Noah Milburn. Tanner Caddell was also big under the basket as the junior came away with seven caroms.

Peyton Webb makes his way through the lane in a game held earlier this season in Decorah. Friday, the junior put up seven points and grabbed four rebounds in the win. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Hudson 15 11 19 19 64 Decorah 21 27 28 13 89 Scoring – Cael LaFrentz 34; Noah Milburn 15; Zachary Driscoll 11; Louie Bucksa 9; Jackson Pipho 7; Peyton Webb 7; Tanner Caddell 4; Gavin Groux 2 Rebounds – LaFrentz 10; Caddell 7; Milburn 6; Carter Dlhy 6; Driscoll 5; Webb 4; Bucksa 3; Trevor Kuennen 3; Groux 2; Assists – Driscoll 11; Webb 5; Milburn 4; Caddell 3; Bucksa 3; LaFrentz 1; Dlhy 1; Keaton Nalean-Carlson 1; Steals – Milburn 4; Driscoll 3; Groux 1; Bucksa 1; Webb 1; Blocks – LaFrentz 2; Dlhy 1

Trojan girls get best of South Winn, 51-27

South Winn’s Carson Streeter (left) is heavily Turkey Valley senior Jonah Orvis keeps the guarded by Trojan JD Kruse on his way to the ball out of the reach of Warrior Jordan Einck basic. (Photos by Becky Walz) in the closing minutes of Friday’s game.

Fast-paced SW speeds to 69-35 win at TV Speed proved to be the deciding factor Friday night as the South Winn boys’ basketball team (6-2, 3-2 UIC) wore down Turkey Valley (3-5, 2-4 UIC) in the 69-35 conference victory in Jackson Junction. The Warriors posted 12

Warrior junior Matson Winings prepares to throw down the basketball following a steal in the first quarter. (Photo by Becky Walz)

points in the first quarter, with half of them coming from junior Matson Winings, including a throw down after a midcourt steal. South Winn continued to press the inexperienced Trojans, picking up several steals at midcourt which led to easy buckets and a 32-13 halftime advantage. The Warriors’ Carson Streeter accounted for nearly half of their points in the period with nine. Turkey Valley’s scoring was scattered in the third, with Logan Busta putting up six of the Trojans’ 11 points as the Warriors carried a 56-25 advantage into the final period. Tucker Reicks scored the first points of the fourth with a shot fired off behind the arc, but the Warriors continued to roll as they outscored the home team 15-11 for the win. Winings led the Warriors with 26 points, along with six rebounds and three steals. Carson Streeter put up 18 points to go with five steals and five boards. Braiden Todd had a double-double with 10 points and 10 assists, along with nine rebounds. Kaden Barton-Franzen provided six points and six rebounds.

For the Trojans it was Busta setting the pace with 16 rebounds and three steals. JD Kruse had eight points and seven boards, while Jordan Kriener provided five points and three rebounds. Treyton Franzen and Reicks each had three points.

South Winn 12 20 22 15 69 Turkey Valley 7 6 11 11 35 South Winn stats Scoring – Matson Winings 26; Carson Streeter 18; Braiden Todd 10; Kaden Barton-Franzen 6; Nolan Sabelka 2; Jordan Einck 2; Carver Wenthold 2; Logan Tieskoetter 2; Hugh Conway 1 Rebounds – Todd 9; Winings 6; Barton-Franzen 5; Streeter 5; Sabelka 4; J. Einck 2; Wenthold 2; Tieskoetter 2; Cale Kleppe 1; Cameron Einck 1; Assists – Todd 10; Sabelka 2; Winings 2; Streeter 2; Wenthold 2; Barton-Franzen 1; Conway 1; Tieskoetter 1; Steals – Streeter 5; Winings 3; Todd 1; Sabelka 1; Kleppe 1; Conway 1; C. Einck 1; Blocks – Winings 1; Barton-Franzen Turkey Valley stats Scoring – Logan Busta 16; JD Kruse 8; Jordan Kriener 5; Treyton Franzen 3; Tucker Reicks 3 Rebounds – Kruse 7; Cale Langreck 5; Kriener 3; Reicks 2; Busta 1; Franzen 1; Jayden Rausch 1; Jonah Orvis 1; Assists – Langreck 2; Busta 1; Kruse 1; Reicks 1; Steals – Busta 3; Reicks 2; Kruse 1; Langreck 1

Decorah girls start 2025 on right foot A pair of wins to kick off the second half of the season is just what the Decorah girls’ basketball team (6-3, 3-0 NEIC) needed. The Vikes opened the new year with a home win over Hudson, followed by a victory over MFL MarMac.

ABOVE: Charlotte Moonen (24) scrambles for the rebound against Trojan senior Delaney Busta (34) as Adele Conway (2) and Emersyn Hoffert (31) look on. RIGHT: Warrior Ella Theis gets the block on TV’s Addison Steinlage. (Photos by Becky Walz)

Doubling up South Winn’s efforts in three of the four quarters was key to victory for the Turkey Valley girls’ basketball team (6-2, 6-1 UIC) Friday night as the Trojans defeated the Warriors (4-5, 3-4 UIC) in Jackson Junction 51-27. “It was good to come out of the break and get the win. We still have a lot of work to do but I like the progress we have made since the start of the season,” said Trojan head coach Steve Hoffert. Although the Warriors scored the first bucket of the night on a Chloe Wiltgen drive to the basket, it was Turkey Valley who took the reins and never let go. Three baskets by Addison Steinlage in the first four minutes pushed the Trojans ahead 9-2 before the Warriors put in a charity toss. By the time the eight minutes were up, Turkey

Valley had doubled up the visitors 14-7. A reflection of the first quarter, the Trojans finished the half on top 28-14 as Vanessa Bullerman tallied five of South Winn’s seven points in the quarter. A slower pace in the third period also led to low scoring for both UIC squads as they combined for just 14 points with TV leading 36-20. The Trojans got back at it in the fourth, knocking down 15 points to the Warriors’ seven. “Turkey Valley had a pretty big size advantage on us and it gave us a hard time. We got out rebounded 51 to 23. I felt like we took some good shots but it just wasn’t our night offensively,” said SW head coach Mike Gehling. “We have good shooters on this team and I know our shots are going to start falling in games soon. I was happy with how aggressive Vanessa Bull-

South Winn 7 7 6 7 27 Turkey Valley 14 14 8 15 51 Turkey Valley stats Scoring – Addison Steinlage 13; Ellaney Bodensteiner 12; Annika Bodensteiner 8; Delaney Busta 6; Emersyn Hoffert 4; Bella Stika 3; Hazel Nieman 3; Layni Schuchhardt 2 Rebounds – E. Bodensteiner 14; Stika 13; Busta 11; Nieman 4; Hoffert 4; Steinlage 3; A. Bodensteiner 2; Assists – A. Bodensteiner 3; Stika 3; Steinlage 1; Schuchhardt 1; Busta 1; Nieman 1; Hoffert 1; Kendall Kuennen 1; Brynlee Hayek 1; E. Bodensteiner 1; Steals – Steinlage 4; Busta 2; E. Bodensteiner 2; A. Bodensteiner 1; Stika 1; Kuennen 1; Blocks – E. Bodensteiner 2; A. Bodensteiner 1; Busta 1; Hoffert 1 South Winn stats Scoring – Vanessa Bullerman 13; Karissa Wenthold 4; Ella Theis 4; Allison Hageman 2; Chloe Wiltgen 2; Adele Conway 2 Rebounds – Charlotte Moonen 6; Theis 3; Emmy Gehling 3; Bullerman 3; Wenthold 2; Conway 2; Alexis Johanningmeier 2; Al. Hageman 1; Wiltgen 1; Assists – Gehling 4; Wenthold 1; Wiltgen 1; Steals – Moonen 4; Conway 2; Wenthold 1; Theis 1; Wiltgen 1; Gehling 1; Blocks – Theis 1

Hudson 8 12 5 15 40 Decorah 12 5 17 12 46 Scoring – Sydney Thompson 17; Claire Storhoff 9; Brooklyn Fromm 8; Grace Tangen 4; Clara Hjelle 3; Renae Wilson 3; Liz Bucksa 2 Rebounds – Storhoff 11; Fromm 5; Thompson 4; Wilson 4; Tangen 4; Hjelle 3; Bucksa 2; Natalie Stevens 2; Assists – Storhoff 2; Fromm 2; Wilson 2; Bucksa 1; Steals – Fromm 2; Storhoff 1; Bucksa 1; Wilson 1; Blocks – Wilson 2; Fromm 1

Non-conference Stepping out of the Northeast Iowa Conference for a second straight game, the Vikings

and togetherness we need each night.” Leading the offensive attack with 17 points and seven steals was Storhoff while Thompson put up 14 to go with six rebounds. Fromm was there for eight points and a pair of blocked shots. Renae Wilson also snagged six boards and had two blocks, while Clara Hjelle pulled down five rebounds.

Decorah 21 9 7 11 48 MFL MM 7 14 7 4 32 Scoring – Storhoff 17; Thompson 14; Fromm 8; Tangen 4; Wilson 3; Hjelle 2 Rebounds – Thompson 6; Wilson 6; Hjelle 5; Bucksa 4; Tangen 3; Storhoff 2; Fromm 2; Stevens 1; Assists – Storhoff 2; Bucksa 2; Wilson 2; Thompson 1; Hjelle 1; Fromm 1; Steals – Storhoff 7; Stevens 2; Thompson 1; Wilson 1; Blocks – Fromm 2; Wilson 2; Storhoff 1; Stevens 1

Head coach Blake Moen and the bench keeps an close eye on the floor during a recent home Decorah basketball game. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Pre-Owned

Ellaney Bodensteiner (right) passes the ball off to her sister Annika late in Friday’s game versus South Winn. (Photo by Becky Walz)

erman was on offense we are going to need her to keep it up going forward.” The Trojans were led by Steinlage with 13 points and four steals. Sophomore Ellaney Bodensteiner came off the bench for a double-double, putting up 12 points and grabbing 14 rebounds to go with two steals and two blocked shots. Annika Bodensteiner contributed eight points, three assists and two rebounds. Bella Stika pulled down 13 boards while Delaney Busta was there for 11 caroms.

A big win A big third-quarter set the Vikes up for the victory Friday with Decorah defeating Class 2A No. 14 Hudson at home 4640. “This was a huge win after Christmas break against a high quality Hudson team. Our girls continue to show outstanding fight, that our staff knows we have in them. After the first half we regrouped and stuck together to put on an excellent second. I love seeing this group play, grow, and get better from game to game,” said coach Blake Moen. The Vikes scored 12 points in the first frame to lead 12-8. The Pirates battled back in the second quarter and took a 20-17 lead into the locker room. Outscoring Hudson 17-5 in the third turned the tides back in Decorah’s favor 34-25, a lead that held in the final eight minutes. Junior Sydney Thompson had a monster game offensively. The starter scored 17 points, including four behind the arc. Claire Storhoff led the Vikes off the rim with 11 rebounds to go with her nine points, while Brooklyn Fromm put up eight points and hauled in five boards.

trekked to Monona Monday to play MFL MarMac (6-5, 6-1 UIC) and returned home with a 48-32 victory. Decorah was hot to start the game, scoring 21 points in the first quarter to take a 21-9 lead after the first eight minutes. In the second, the Vikes held the advantage 30-21. Moving into the third period, the offense of both teams chilled as both scored seven points. Outscoring the Bulldogs 11-4 in the final quarter handed the win to Decorah. “We started out with our best first quarter this season, so I was excited to see the girls ready to go from the beginning. We went back and forth with MFL until the fourth quarter, we were able to stick together and pull away,” said coach Moen. “This team continues to show the grit

2021 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500

SALE PRICE

$33,500

4D Crew Cab LT EcoTec3 5.3L V8 8-Speed Automatic 4WD One-Owner. Silver Ice Metallic. Jet Black Cloth Seat Trim. 57,694 MILES Alloy Wheels Remote Start ■ Back-Up Camera ■

■

Heated Seats/Wheel Stability Control

■ ■

Keyless Start Tow Hitch

View inventory at www.weisgmc.com

Driven by trust.

Your local automotive dealer for four generations 131 College Drive, Decorah, IA ■ 563-382-8474

NEW & USED SALES