July 11, 2024

Thursday, July 11, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 28 www.decorahleader.com

Decorah, Iowa 52101 email: news@decorahnewspapers.com

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The Decorah Public Opinion and its associated shopper, the Driftless Journal, were acquired by Enterprise Media as of July 1. The publications were previously under the editorship of Kate Klimesh of Driftless Multimedia. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

Enterprise Media acquires Public Opinion, Driftless Journal The Decorah Public Opinion and its associated shopper, the Driftless Journal, were acquired by Enterprise Media as of July 1. The Charles Citybased publishing company was founded in 2016 by Christopher Hall and his wife Kristin Hall.

The pair of Decorah publications were previously under the editorship of Kate Klimesh of Driftless Multimedia, whose family purchased the local newspaper in July of 2021 after being involved with the publications for several years.

The publications will be renamed as part of the transition — the Decorah Public Opinion will be redubbed the Dec-

orah Leader, while the Driftless Journal will s i m p l y be known as The Driftless moving forward.

The Decorah Christopher Hall Leader will be helmed by incoming News Editor Seth Boyes, while Enterprise Media CEO Christopher Hall will oversee much of the business and advertising aspects of the operation alongside the local staff.

“Decorah has a proud history of notable newspaper work,

dating back to the early days of the Decorah Posten, and we’re thankful to Kate and her crew for the opportunity to write the next Seth Boyes chapter in that legacy,” Hall said. “Kate has led the Public Opinion and Driftless Journal for several years now. She and the team here have made connections across the community, and we hope to build on the momentum they have gained among their readers.”

In addition to the updated

mastheads, Enterprise plans to place a renewed focus on local news and sports coverage within the core Decorah market. Moving forward, byline news coverage, sports and legal notices will be published in the Decorah Leader, while the Driftless will serve as the area’s free advertising shopper.

“We’re going to grow the Decorah Leader by cultivating more in-depth local coverage of the Decorah market,” Hall said.

“That is something that we will need the community’s help and

Enterprise Media

continued on page 6

Participants in the annual Pulpit to Pulpit 5K began looking toward the finish line as they pounded the pavement along the College Drive bridge, which spans the Upper Iowa River. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

Annual Pulpit to Pulpit 5K raises funds for community causes

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR The skies were gray, but smiles were bright the morning of July 4 in Decorah as nearly 300 people gathered behind the starting line of the annual Pulpit to Pulpit 5K. Some were accompanied by canine companions.

And at least one runner completed the course barefoot.

But the finish line wasn’t the only goal that morning. Participants knew their strides would benefit the local community.

The Pulpit to Pulpit 5K raises funds for two area organizations each year, as runners make a circuit from Pulpit Rock Brewing Company to the Pulpit Rock Campground and back — the annual event also features a 1-mile fun run/ walk. Steph Hughes, co-director of the Pulpit to Pulpit 5K, said the budding tradition has attracted around 250 runners each of the last three years, but this year’s event saw 295 people take their marks be-

Pulpit to Pulpit continued on page 7

Community Action to buy Smith building for $1 Winneshiek County, City of Decorah applying for flood relief Concept illustrations for a proposed new elementary school were presented to the Decorah Community School Distirct Board of Directors on Monday night. The proposed school would replace John Cline and West Side Elementary. No final design has been selected. (Images courtesy of Emergent Architecture)

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

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Facilities Committee paves way for new elementary school

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER The Decorah Community School District Board of Directors unanimously approved a recommendation from the Elementary School Facilities Committee on Monday for construction of a new elementary school, which would replace John Cline School and West Side Elementary School.

“The existing facilities of John Cline Elementary and West Side Elementary, while

having served the district well for many years, no longer meet the modern standards required for a conducive learning environment,” the committee’s report said. “The infrastructure is outdated, and attempts at mere renovations will not address the fundamental deficiencies that impact our students’ learning experiences and safety. A complete teardown and rebuild will allow us to create educational spaces that can adequately support current and future educational programs and technolo-

REDEEM

gies.”

Committee member Mark Jensen said he and fellow committee members were unanimous in their recommendation to tear down the 60-year-old John Cline School and build a new school on the district-owned property – known locally as the “Heivly Island.”

The committee’s proposal includes a recommendation for a November bond referendum of not more than $38 million to fund the school, which would serve pre-kindergarten through

second-grade students, with the potential for other public amenities. The committee also recommended a measure be added to a September ballot, which would potentially authorize the school district to levy between $2.70 and $4.05 per $1,000 assessed property value to fund the proposed bond. The committee said in its written recommendation that delaying

Elementary school continued on page 3

Winneshiek County plans to sell Decorah’s historic Smith building to Northeast Iowa Community Action.

During Monday morning’s Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors meeting, NEICAC Director Trisha Wilkins reported that the NEICAC Board of Directors recently approved the purchase of the Smith building – located at 305 Montgomery St. – from the county for $1. The formal deeding of the property will require a public hearing at a later date. The board generally agreed to on a tentative transfer date of Sept. 3, and will continue discussions with NEICAC regarding the

expected sale.

Wilkins said that purchase is also contingent upon the corporation’s acquisition of appropriate insurance for the building, but she doesn’t foresee any issues.

Wilkens also discussed a number of particulars with the board, such as who might be responsible for lawn care for the property.

“I would think, on the lawn mowing, we can cover it easily till the end of the summer,” said Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines. “We have summer help, but they’re students, so they’re going to go

Supervisors continued on page 6

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n u F r i Fa

The 2024 Winneshiek County Fair Queen Annika Schmelzer of Ridgeway was crowned in front of a crowd at the grandstand Tuesday afternoon. She is the daughter of David and Jennifer Schmelzer. The 2024 Fair Princess is Addison Wicklund of Decorah, the daughter of Melissa and Christopher Wicklund. (Photo by Roz Weis)

e ll i v ll i Sp

FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Right: Winneshiek County Dairy Princess Alternate Hannah Vagts provides service with a smile in the Winneshiek County Dairy Promoter’s Moo Mobile Saturday afternoon in Spillville’s Riverside Park.

Below right: Children’s games and contests were held From 4-5 p.m. July 6 at Spillville’s Riverside Park. The three-legged sack race and the egg-spoon race were old-time favorites among the evening’s activities.

Below: Barb Pinter Luster, originally of Fort Atkinson and now of Janesville, Wisconsin, gets ready to catch a water balloon during the children’s games Saturday afternoon at Spillville’s Riverside Park. (Photos by Zach Jensen)

Static exhibit judging begins ahead of county fair

Static judging at the 2024 Winneshiek County Fair brought 4-H club members from across the county early last week. Hanna Lensch, a member of the Washington Prairie Peppers 4-H Club had her project reviewed by Family Consumer Sciences Judge Jane Blumhagen. Registering the projects were a few of the 4-H County Council members, including (left to right) Brynn Storhoff, Elizabeth Pritchard, Addison Wicklund and Katrina Hageman. (Photos by Roz Weis)

More fair photos to follow in the next edition of the Decorah Leader.

Enjoy

Fireworks FRIED CHICKEN & THE FOURTH IN FESTINA

the Winneshiek County & Allamakee County Fairs

Clockwise far left “Uncle Sam” celebrates his 247th birthday; Brad and Mike Reicks drop a batch of chicken in the deep fryer for their popular drive through chicken dinner; Winneshiek County 2023 Fair Princess Autumn Schmitt and 2023 Fair Queen Brynn Storhoff were in one of more than 60 vehicles parNIKKI MEYER ticipating in the parade; Layla Phillips, 2, from West Union, daughter of AlAgriculture Specialist lison and Eli Phillips, lost a shoe but found an ice pop and lots of candy.

BY DENISE LANA (Photos by Denise Lana) 563-568-8117 STAFF WRITER nikki.meyer@plantpioneer.com EITZEN, MN More than 60 cars, trucks, tractors and makeshift floats took part in Festina’s July 4 parade, with participants throwing out candy and trinkets to the residents and locals who turned out in droves to watch the NikkisAgService Crop planning for the future procession. When the parade had ended and the street had cleared away, cars all but immediately began queuing up in the community center parking lot to purchase chicken dinners from Brad and Mike with Mike Dedication through old fashioned hustle & using the latest digital tools.

Reicks Chicken. The line soon ran 50 cars long and congested traffic around the town.

This busy holiday event got its start 20 years prior in 2004, when two young sons of Festina locals Tim and Connie Franzen wanted to observe Independence Day, which the children said had never celebrated the holiday in the town. Eightyear-old Devin and 4-year-old Eric decorated their tricycle and bike with crepe paper – they even decked out their 2-year-old baby sister Hannah’s stroller.

“We knocked on doors, and asked neighbors if they wanted to come to our parade,” said Connie. “We went up the sidewalks two or three It’s not just about the experience and dedication of our crews. houses.”

Nieces and nephews joined the sidewalk paIt’s about the energy you count on. rade the next year, and soon neighbors joined, bringing horses. Within a few years, the parade Join us this week as we thank the members of the International Brotherhood of Electric grew too big for the sidewalk and had to be Workers who work tirelessly every day to build, maintain and repair electric infrastructure. moved to the street.

They keep power flowing in Decorah and Winneshiek County.

“When Hannah was 6 or 7, a neighbor asked if we could make it bigger, so a senior citizen alliantenergy.com float was added,” said Connie. “Another neighbor added their Model T car, another added their tractors, the fire departments joined. People took turns being grand marshal. It just took on a life of its own.”

Brad Reicks, son of Mike Reicks of the locally lauded Mike Reicks Chicken, was almost always at the end of the parade, shooting off water guns. When Brad got older, he began planning and launching fireworks shows every July 4. Additionally, Brad and Mike cook 600 pounds of chicken to make 500 dinner plates to sell. The split the profits with Festina and use the funds to offset the cost of a local fireworks display. Festina, being an unincorporated community, uses their profits to help pay for their streetlights.

“This has grown into what it is now, the parade people just show up,” said Angie Einck, who works with the town. “The parade was started just for the kids, and it is a team effort. It’s all the people in town that keeps it all going. We need more parking now.”

“It’s definitely a community event,” said Tim. “We all work together; everyone takes care of © 2024 Alliant Energy 1130100 7/24 MJ one another.”

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | NEWS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

Elementary school

the project could result in not only increased costs but prolonged disruption.

“The time is now,” Jensen said. “In the end we need a new school … but this also a community space, not exclusively a school.”

Tasked with balancing wants and needs, Jensen said the 20-member committee has met for the past six months to develop a final proposal for board consideration. He cited a recent community serving, the results of which he felt exhibit the community’s growing awareness of the current facility’s state of disrepair. He added that the committee expected 200300 surveys to be returned but received approximately 1,150.

Jensen said the overall survey results indicated positive support for moving forward with the proposed project.

He said the plan includes a footprint which would enable the district to use the current John Cline School building during the construction of the new school on the property.

Officials with the city of Decorah, including Mayor Lor-

continued from front page

raine Borowski and councilman Steve Zittergruen, served alongside Jensen on the facilities committee and echoed his thoughts on the construction of a new school.

“This has been in the works for a dozen years,” Zittergruen said. “It’s imperative we get the new school built.”

Bond election restrictions Cronin reminded school board members of a recent change to state legislation restricting school bond referendums to November elections only. Previously, a school bond referendum could be held throughout a given calendar year.

Nick Hildebrandt, chief executive officer/principal architect for Emergent Architecture, and Patty Spowart, project architect with Emergent, attended Monday’s meeting to answer questions and outlined a timeframe for the proposed project should the November bond referendum be approved.

Upon voter approval, the project would encompass 12

months of planning and design and another estimated 18 months of construction. Officials said the timeline would push the project’s prospective completion date to the fall of 2027.

Hildebrandt said, should a bond referendum fail in November, the district would be required to wait another year before putting forward a second bond proposal.

Other business In other business Monday night, DCSD Board members approved a timeline for hiring a construction manager at risk and appointed Carole Sand and Ron Fadness as district board representatives for the expected request for quotation.

Board members also approved a resolution supporting the issuance of up to $7.5 million for school infrastructure sales, services and use tax revenue bonds. Board members said this resolution extends and directs funding directly to the elementary school project.

Echoes of the Past By Roz Weis

Ladies are lighting up on the train

1924

ONE HUNDRED YEARS AGO: The first woman’s smoking car on the Illinois Central Daylight Special train was liberally patronized on its initial trip. The porter reported his supply of fags practically sold out, when the train arrived here late the other afternoon, and half of the lounge car is reserved for women. …A Chicago expert in swimming gave an enthusiastic exhibition the other night at the Tavener Dam. He showed some life-saving tactics and demonstrated those techniques with Chas. Cratsenberg before an immense crowd in the city. …Mrs. Wm. Tobiason is opening up a beauty parlor with an expert operator in charge.

Watch for more details in the newspaper. …A big Vaudeville Show is being offered here at The Str Theatre for four big circus acts. Novelty stunts, toe dancing, flexible gymnastics, sharp shooting and much more will be featured. It is reported there will also be some marvelous feats of hand and head balancing and some “upside-down bell ringing.” …A wristwatch belonging to one of the employees of Shorty’s Café was taken from the kitchen last Monday afternoon. A little boy was seen in the kitchen at the time the watch disappeared, but when he was questioned, he said he put the watch into someone’s automobile. If anyone with an auto finds the watch, please return to Shorty’s Café. …Doc Fritchen has decided not to leave Decorah after all!

This is good news to the family’s many friends here. There had been talk of him moving to Wisconsin. …Deno Kratz of Ridgeway, who had his Ford car stolen in Ridgeway last week, has recov-

health

ered the auto near Blooming Prairie, Minnesota. …There was a grand picnic at Chimney Rock for the fourth of July. An estimated 60 cars were there! …The state will now keep tabs on new babies with a registration system. Birth cards will be properly filled out as part of the new government vital statistics effort. …Percy Young, who lives near Freeport, started out for McGregor the other day and was thrown from his motorcycle about 20 feet into the air when he was a short distance from Luana. He escaped serious injury. …The store of R.B. Jones over at Ossian was entered sometime last Sunday night. Entrance was made through the cellar. Nothing appears to be missing. No clues have surfaced. …Corn is nearly knee high over at Gus Budahl’s place in Canoe Township.

1934

NINETY YEARS AGO: The city’s state liquor store, which is located in the H.J. Hutchinson building on Main Street, was formally opened for business at noon last Tuesday. The personnel of the Decorah Store includes: Manager Peter Nockels; permit clerk and cashier, Burton B. Morse; order clerk, Lawrence L. Shea; stock clerk, Owen W. Roney; and watchman, Ben Vine. A big truck load of liquor with a driver and guard in charge arrived in Decorah about 2:30 last Sunday morning and unloaded. Purchase permits will cost $1, and those permits will be good for one year. Permits are “going good,” with almost 100 being sold. Two large desks for use of patrons in writing out their orders are in the front, and posted on a large wall board are the lists of the liquors carried and the price charged. No liquor

will be on display in the store, but will be kept in bins in the rear of the store. ……Following the trail of the stork from 1934: A baby girl was born to Mr. and Mrs. William Shimek June 25, 1934. A baby boy was born June 20 to Mr. and Mrs. Norval Burreson of Hesper at their home. …FRONT PAGE NEWS: Six persons were arrested the other Saturday and put to work on the Dug Road north of the City Park to work out their sentences on charges of public drunkenness. …The Sky Line Barn Dance floor was in good condition for the dance last week. Some 475 tickets were sold. …Within the last few weeks, more than 100 new men have entered the Decorah CC Camp.

Total enrollment here is now approximately 255 men. …A good group of girls reported for kittenball practice over at Burr Oak last week.

Captain Stella Newhouse is inviting neighboring teams to start a schedule of games for the summer. …Alice’s Beauty Shop (over the Bake-Rite Bakery) has a July deal on a $4 Milky Way Permanent Wave. Now priced at $1.35. …A Ben Franklin Store, a popular variety store, is to be owned and operated by R.C. Hunt of Minneapolis. It will be located about Aug.t 1 in the former Superior Baking Building on Water Street. …Development of a swimming pool at the gravel pit just south of the fairgrounds was discussed. Keeping the window lights on in the business houses during the evenings was discussed and the suggestion made that the business houses which usually close at six o’clock keep the lights burning during the evening hours. It gives any city a live, most welcoming appearance. *Echoes of the Past is printed verbatim from the archives.

As such, it is a direct reflection of its time.

Don Van Duyn’s interest in tractor pulling began in 1993, and he began participating in such events himself after buying a tractor – dubbed “Birch Hollow Deer” – in 1997. (Photo submitted)

Decorah puller Van Duyn shares the challenge and excitement of tractor pulls

By Zach Jensen Staff Writer Tractor pulls always pack the stands at county fairs, and Decorah puller Don Van Duyn has been “pulling” for the last 27 years.

Van Duyn, owner of SEE Electric of Decorah, said he first became interested in tractor pulls in 1993, and four years later, he bought his first pulling tractor –a Schreier’s John Deere Model 4010 – from a man in Wisconsin. Van Duyn named the machine “Birch Hollow Deer” because of all the deer which live around his home, and his new purchase went through an extensive rebuild.

“Over the years, I have modified, upgraded, changed, redone everything on that tractor, and I never really got another tractor,” Van Duyn said. “At one point, we sold most of our tractor, but I never sold everything and started completely over. The steering wheel is the same.”

Van Duyn said he enjoys pulling, because he’s always enjoyed working on projects and preparing his machine for each brief yet powerful challenge.

“You put hours and hours of work into it, and it all comes down to 10 seconds. You always need to be ready for what happens next,” he said.

“There’s no guarantee that it’s going to go straight or do what you intended.”

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a puller’s total score is the sum of all the points they earned throughout the entire season – similar to car racing.

“If it’s 10 points to win, and you don’t show up, you’ve lost 10 points right away,” Van Duyn said. “It’s pretty hard to make up that 10 points. But, even if you win that night, you might only win one point forward. It takes a while to make up a deficit of points.”

Van Duyn said he’s been a member of Tri State Truck and Tractor Pullers –“Tri State Pullers” for short – ever since he first got into pulling in the 1990s.

“Like any sport, there’s clubs and affiliations, and our club just isn’t down here very often,” he said.

Regardless of which club is hosting the Winneshiek County Fair’s tractor pull, Van Duyn said he plans on continuing to pull as soon as he is able to get some necessary parts for “Birch Hollow Deer.” But that doesn’t mean his love for pulling has stalled out.

“Right now, because I can’t get the part I need, I go out for two-three hours a night and just work on little things and fabricating and building,” Van Duyn said. “It’s a test of our skills.”

The Winneshiek County Fair’s tractor pull will be held at 7 p.m., Wednesday, July 11, at the fair’s grandstand. For information, visit www.winneshiekcountyfair.org/grandstand. html#/.

AssuredPartners of Decorah, which includes Nikki Thompson, Peggy Lensing and Brian Huinker, has earned the Wellmark Promise Award For the fifth time in 10 years. The award is given to the top agent/agency in the state of Iowa for individual and small business health insurance. In addition, Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health has been named the recipient of Wellmark’s $5,000 non-profit donation. “We are thrilled to choose Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health as our non-profit business for the 2023 award,” said vice president of employee benefits, Brian Huinker. (Photo submitted)

(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.

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Van Duyn described tractor pulling as a weight-transfer sport in which tractors pull a sled or “skid” carrying up to 40,000 pounds. As the sled is pulled forward, the weight moves up a ramp, which drives the front of the sled deeper into the dirt track.

“When you take off, your resistance is basically nothing,” he said. “As you go down the track, that weight comes on up.

The other thing is the ‘pan’ of the sled, which is above the ground when you start and, as the weight box comes up, that pan sets into the ground a little bit, and the weight comes up over it. And, if that isn’t enough, then the back end of the sled comes off like a knife into the ground. I equate modern-day tractor pulling to dragsters – they have a parachute to stop them, and we have a sled to stop us.”

Van Duyn said he doesn’t recall how many times he’s won a pull, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t like taking the top slot at a given pull.

“I don’t have to win every time, and I don’t know what my win-lose ratio is, but we’ve always tried to be a competitive and consistent puller,” he said.

“When you’re chasing points, consistency matters. You have to be there. You don’t have to win all the time, but you have to participate.”

Van Duyn explained that in pulling, points are awarded at each event during a season, and

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OPINION

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The road back to Decorah and the return of the opinion page “These directions are wrong,” my mother said. “They must’ve been thinking we would come up from the south.”

The year was 1990-something, my cousin was graduating from Luther College, and my mother’s calm declaration from the front seat of our family’s trusty Toyota Camry was enough to pull my eyes up from the magazine I was reading (the latest copy of the since discontinued youth magazine “Disney Adventures” — that particular issue’s main feature was on an upcoming film called “Titanic” starring some rising teen heartthrob I’d never heard of named Leonardo DiCaprio). As I lazily peered over the top of the pages and out the car’s windshield, we crested the hill and I got my first real look at Decorah. Highway 52 seemed like the longest ribbon of road I’d ever seen in my life — little did I know how many times I would ride down this community’s hills in the decades to come.

I don’t recall if we were there during commencement, but I distinctly remember passing by the distinct fence line of what I now know to be the Porter House Museum as we walked to the brick house my cousin and her friends were renting at the time. It didn’t take long for my uncle to suggest he take my brother and I to the Whippy Dip for some ice cream – a memory that rises anew each time my own children stand at that same service window (with great anticipation, mind you).

Then it was 2004…at least I think it was. The girl I was dating back then wanted to take a road trip with our friends for her birthday that year and spend a day at her dad’s cabin just west of Decorah. It was the first time I ate Mabe’s Pizza — and it definitely was not the last.

Within a year, nearly every one of the teens gathered around that table were in different cities, if not different states, as we each began the next chapter of their lives.

And I was no exception — come the fall of 2005, I began my time at Iowa State University, while my girlfriend moved into a dorm at Luther College.

It was probably 2007, when that same girl and I shared a long hug in a parking lot on campus one Sunday afternoon.

Goodbyes were never easy for me back then. I’d left much lat-

BY SETH BOYES News Editor er than I meant to — a habitual happening back then — and I wondered whether we could keep this long-distance thing going until graduation. The wind cast ripples through her hair and the red dress she was wearing as she shrank in the reflection of my pitifully small car’s rearview mirror. Pearl Jam’s “Better Man” started to play on the radio…which didn’t help my emotional state much.

Guess I’ve always been more than a bit of a softy.

Maybe that’s partly why she agreed to marry me a few years later.

It was 2023 when several pieces of our lives coalesced, and life offered our family the chance to call Decorah our new home — it was pretty hard to say no, honestly. We had, of course, been back many times over the years to visit family — in fact, an offhand remark from a relative was the pebble that got the boulder rolling for us. But in what felt like no time at all, we were considering job offers, making site visits and ultimately diving headlong into the commitment of moving.

It always seemed to be windy when we’d make our pseudo secret stops in Decorah that summer. But the breezes that swept through the tree tops were different than they had been in that college parking lot years earlier — a hello, rather than a goodbye. The feeling wasn’t unlike gazing out onto that stretch of highway again — life was full of possibilities for me and my young family, but this time I was in the front seat.

Then suddenly it was May of 2024, and I was steering the last carload of our belongings eastward. The sun was going down, and the familiar valley of Decorah opened up before me once again, like a Grant Wood painting.

“Almost home,” I said to myself.

Well, alright, I’ll admit I made sure to say it out loud then so I could truthfully include it in my tale now, but that doesn’t make it any less true.

I knew my way home.

In fact, I’ve been tapping my foot in anticipation of my first day here. Newspaper work is more than familiar to me than most anything these days, so perhaps it’s fitting I should begin it again in such a familiar setting, and I’m ready to tell this community’s stories.

But a truly worthwhile newspaper doesn’t exist in a vacuum as they say. It has to be rooted in the community itself. And that’s what we at this paper aim to do, dear reader — provide you quality news from faces and names you know. It’s perhaps not that lofty of a goal, but it’s a worthy one.

The reality is, local newspapers have the opportunity to tell the kinds of stories their readers can’t get anywhere else. We can bicker about what the metro newspapers are writing or what the talking heads on cable news are saying (though I’ll maintain until my dying day that nearly everything on any cable news show is in fact not news but opinion disguised in the vestiges of journalism), but they aren’t the ones covering your city council meeting, or your county fair or Nordicfest for that matter. In short, the big guys don’t carry the truly awesome burden which local journalists bear each week — that is to say, they don’t run into their readers at the grocery store on a Wednesday afternoon.

A local newspaper is part of its community and by extension is a reflection of the community — for better or worse. It highlights the triumphs while also being capable of fairly reporting its shortcomings — not shouting from a mountaintop of self importance, but with the main street awareness that there is a starting line ahead of any positive change. Many a wouldbe journalist has led themselves astray by believing the best use of the words wrought in each week’s ink is to simply tear down the proverbial other. And that’s how we become mired in any number of hopeless divides, dear reader — left vs. right, blue collar vs. white collar, The Munsters vs. The Addams Family.

Now, I’ve been in town for a little bit at this point. I read up on the Decorah Posten and its declared purpose of providing relevant news without the politics — again, perhaps not a

lofty goal, but definitely a worthy one. You see, back in the days of the Posten, it wasn’t uncommon for newspapers to be affiliated with a particular political party — in fact, I’ve seen archived clippings from Iowa publications of the late 1880s which strongly implied party allegiance was a key component of a successful newspaper.

However, in today’s world, newsworthy stories and political happenings are more than intertwined — politics moves fast these days and can affect all our lives just as quickly. That said, I believe the spirit of the Posten’s stance can still be applied today.

Honest reporting isn’t dead.

Political happenings can (and should) be reported without opinion — that’s what good journalists (you know, the kind you might run into at the grocery store from time to time) do. They have the ability to set aside their own personal views — specifically they set them aside here on the opinion page if said opinion is so cumbersome that it’s truly got to go somewhere.

And there’s room for you too, dear reader.

It’s been said the opinion page is the heart of any newspaper, and it’s a space that’s available as much to the community as it is to the news staff.

So, we want to hear from you, honestly. There are some limits — we’re not printing slanderous accusations, and we’re going to keep the opinion page as hyper-local as possible (meaning the mass mailing sent to us by a rancher in Idaho who has strong opinions about a Supreme Court decision will promptly go in what my former boss called the round file).

But you, dear reader, are welcome to let us know what you think. Tell us how you feel about what you see in the community or across the country. Share your thoughts on our work — the good and the bad.

For it’s a poor paper that doesn’t listen to its community.

Agree with Seth? Think he’s got it completely backwards or he’s missed the point entirely?

Let your voice be heard. Letters to the editor may be emailed to editor@decorahleader.com or dropped off at 110 Washington St. Suite 4 in Decorah.

Freedom isn’t free

We enjoy a free society because Americans who were not free took risks and made sacrifices

The sun is reflected in the National Monument to Freedom in Montgomery, Alabama on June 26, 2024. The monument is inscribed with the names of 122,000 families listed in the 1870 census, the first in which many former enslaved people were recorded. (Photo by Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

BY BRIAN LYMAN ALABAMA REFLECTOR VIA IOWA CAPITAL DISPATCH You can’t understand the scope of 122,000 names until you see them on a wall.Stand at the foot of the National Monument to Freedom, recently dedicated by the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, and you’ll see all of them, soaring three or

four stories above your head.

Each name, taken from the 1870 census, belonged to a former enslaved person. These are surnames. Family names. Combined, they represent about 4 million people who emerged from bondage.

Each one stands for an American once treated as an animal.

Someone who could be abused and assaulted under the law.

Who could be stripped naked in front of a crowd of rich men;

poked and prodded, and sold away from parents, spouses and children.

You get a taste of this horror in a park surrounding the monument and along a path leading to it. There are slave cabins. And a rail car that transported human beings like cattle. Surrounding all of it are statistics that measure toll of human bondage; stories that illustrate it, and carvings of the laws that upheld it.

There’s this chilling statistic

from EJI: about 6 million Americans died as the property of someone else.

By the time you reach that wall, you know that each name represents not just those who survived, but dozens if not hundreds of people who lived and died as prisoners. Each one stands atop a mountain of pain and trauma, deposited like sediment over generations.

It’s led me to think about a phrase that seems inescapable when we approach federal holidays like Independence Day. Freedom isn’t free.

I’ve heard it invoked many times over the last 23 years. The slogan is usually employed to bludgeon critics of the nation’s disastrous military actions following 9/11.

But the National Monument to Freedom gives the phrase a new meaning.

When the United States came into being on July 4, 1776, each of its 13 constituent parts allowed enslavement. Congress struck out a paragraph condemning the slave trade from an early draft of the Declaration of Independence. There was never anything condemning slavery itself.

Human bondage declined during the Revolution, particularly in South Carolina and Georgia. In Generations of Captivity, a history of slavery, historian Ira Berlin writes that the enslaved population in Georgia fell two-thirds between 1775 and 1783. It fell by a quarter in South Carolina during that period.

‘We must step up together’ Dear Editor:

“We are in the process of the second American Revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be.”

Kevin Roberts, Heritage Foundation president, July 2, 2024.

This quote should send chills up the spine of every citizen. It is a direct threat to our democracy. How do we respond to such threats?

The recent Supreme Court decision grants Presidents broad immunity for otherwise criminal acts, solely because they are president. The decision, for the first time in our country’s history, gives the president king-like powers. This overreach is an assault on our democracy. Such extremism goes against what has kept our country free for over two centuries.

We have fought together against absolute power since 1776. We are not a dictatorship.

We do not have kings that are above the law. We are a democracy by the people, for the people … people of all ideals. “For the people” means we foster a safe, respectful and equal community for everyone. Most of us agree on that goal, though we may differ on howto achieve it.

“By the people” means we have a duty to participate: To research wisely, to discuss

That was due to chaos, not ideals. In a revolution, state authority collapses. Without state authority, it’s hard to keep people subjugated. And enslaved people took advantage of the opportunity.

But war is a poor liberator.

Slavery reasserted itself in both states within a decade. And there was nothing on paper that would have kept it from going on forever.

Except Americans.Enslaved people resisted in ways large and small, defending their humanity in a system determined to rob them of it.

It was two enslaved people — Mum Bett and Quock Walker — who pushed Massachusetts courts to declare in 1781 and 1783 that the state’s new constitution had abolished slavery.

It was Black men and women, aided by white allies, who ran the Underground Railroad and put themselves on the line to get people out of slavery.

None of this was easy. Success was not guaranteed. It took centuries to end the institution.

Every member of every family listed on the National Monument to Freedom knew someone – a parent, a child, a loved one – who lived and died as someone else’s property.

But by the eve of the Civil War, the work of brave men and women had broken through in the north. And created a bloc of politicians whose primary goal was putting slavery on the path to extinction, if not abolishing it outright.

openly, to vote and then to engage with our representatives.

Too many of us have participated minimally. More of us are deciding not to vote or even not to pay attention at all.

There is too much at stake now. Recent events risk tearing the fabric of our nation apart.

We must step up together. To do so, we must build a community that again takes the lead. How to do this?

• Get your information from a variety of sources.

• Discuss with others of all viewpoints. Listen, ask questions, withhold judgment and present your ideas kindly.

“Never discuss politics’’ is a path that led us here.

• Work with others to support candidates of your choice. Contact their campaigns for ideas: phone calls, door knocking, letter writing, donations. Every effort moves us forward. Most importantly, vote!

• Communicate with your representatives. Their job is to listen, and they know that keeping their job depends on it.

Neighbors, do not let a small minority take away our freedoms. Do not let a minority of extremists destroy our democracy. We are the majority. We have the power and the duty to rebuild.

Scott Iverson and Rebecca Burland, Decorah

That came from people on the margins of society, demanding what had been denied them: respect; the rule of law and a voice in their governance.Freedom isn’t free. But it’s not armed conflict that pushes freedom forward. More often than not, it’s the person wounded by power at its most nihilistic who broadens the boundaries of liberty. It’s the lawyer who helps register voters in defiance of a regime working to stop it. And it’s the people who march for their rights with law enforcement against them.

These men and women push past the inertia of the ordinary to grab an ideal that seems impossible.If we can celebrate a free society on Thursday, it’s not because of centuries-old philosophers or decades-old battles. It’s because Americans who were not free took risks and made sacrifices that lifted this nation higher than it was before.

The 122,000 names on the National Monument to Freedom testify to the enormity of that task. And remind us that the seed of justice is often planted in those who have the least of it.

This column was originally published by Alabama Reflector, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Alabama Reflector maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Brian Lyman for questions: info@alabamareflector.com.

OBITUARIES

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | NEWS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

Abby Theisen

Julia Soland

Oct. 1, 1922 - May 27, 2024

Julia Soland, 101, of Decorah, died Monday, May 27, 2024, at her home in Decorah.

Julia was born Oct. 1, 1922, in Springfield Township in Winneshiek County to John Halverson and Hilda (Orvella) Julia Soland Halverson.

She was baptized on Nov. 19, 1922, at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church. She attended Nordness School in Nordness and graduated from Decorah High School on May 28, 1941.

Julia married Ernest Gilbert Soland on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, 1943, at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church. Ernest was the son of Embret and Louise (Arness) Soland. Three children were born to this union: James Ernest Soland (died Aug. 14, 2002), Joan Landenberger of Denver, Iowa, and Mark Soland of Decorah.

Julia came from a family of six siblings and Ernie came from a family of six siblings.

They lived on the family farm that Ernie grew up on, which had been in the family for over 150 years. Ernie’s siblings had a great love for that farm and visited often with their families.

Julia was always a gracious host and opened their home up with open arms – so many wonderful memories of family gatherings.

Most of the kids had to learn how to bale hay if they were there in the summer. It wasn’t all play. They had to work too.

Julia and Ernie started out with one cow and slowly added to their herd. They saw hard times during WWII. Julia loved her farm life and drove their gator around the farm into her late 90s. She helped with some of the field work and helped milk cows morning and night. She was noted for her stash of cookies in the freezer. She always tried to have the children’s favorites waiting for them in the freezer. And she was still helping bake at 101 years old.

Julia was always noted for her blackcap jelly. Relatives were always hoping to take a jar of jelly home with them. Julia’s breakfasts were always something the relatives looked forward to also.

Julia was a lifelong member of Washington Prairie Lutheran Church and was an active member of Ladies Aid and her church circle until her health didn’t permit. They served many Nordic Fest suppers and

Nov. 12, 1993 - July 4, 2024 served lunches for funerals.

Julia patiently waited for the newspaper to come every day, because she loved the “word jumble” and the sudoku puzzles. And she solved those puzzles up until the last few weeks of her life. She was noted for her tied quilts – nothing fancy, but a comfort to all her grandchildren. Some of the quilts had been washed and were hanging by threads, but still they used them and found comfort in their gift from grandma.

Julia was given a sweatshirt with “Great Grandmother” printed on it, which she wore proudly. Each child, grandchild, great-grandchild and great-great grandchild tried to be “Grandma’s Favorite.”

T-shirts were printed and worn proudly – a fun rivalry between relatives. Her refrigerator was plastered with pictures of her favorites in their T-shirts. Julia will truly be missed.

Julia is survived by daughter Joan Landenberger; son Mark Soland (Rhonda Boe); daughter-in-law Yvonne Soland-Stoddard; brother-in-law Eugene Soland and wife Wanda (Gish) Soland, sister-in-law Ann Soland; grandchildren: Brittney (Soland) Dupuis and husband Richard Dupuis; Mandy (Soland) Quick; and husband Jeffrey Quick; Danielle (Soland) Spigarelli and husband David Spigarelli; Joshua Soland; Calli (Landenberger) Boeckmann; Nikki (Landenberger) Severson and husband Marcus Severson; Heather (Soland) Ollendick and husband Dave Ollendick, Jason Soland and wife Jen (Hall) Soland; Travis Soland and wife Kristin (Gerzema) Soland; great-grandchildren: Austin Dupuis and wife Alexis (Vodden) Dupuis; Reece Dupuis; Alianna Quick; Raven Spigarelli; Colt Boeckmann; Carter Severson; Kasyn Severson; Jonathan Berland and wife Brook (Bodermann) Berland; Michael Ollendick, Olivia Ollendick; Erica Ollendick; Quinn Soland, Charlie Soland; Landon Soland; and Peyton Soland; and great-great-grandchildren: Lenora Berland, Benjamin Berland and Maeve Dupuis.

Surviving nieces and nephews include: Ardy (Espe) Steine and son Toni Martin and his children; Yvonne (Espe) Cary and husband Bill Cary and their children; LeAnn (Giesking) Espe and family; Edward Espe and his wife Deb Espe and their children; Pearl (Haugen) Hamilton and husband Roger Hamilton and their children; Brenda Falck and her family;

Randy Falck and his family; Deb (Halverson) Larson and husband Dennis Larson and their children; LeEtta (Halverson) Choi and husband Kit Choi and their children; Janice (Reed) Hellman and husband Ted Hellman and family; James Reed and wife Mary Reed and their daughter; Karen (Soland) Wilson and husband James Wilson and their children; Linda (Soland) Sterbenz and husband Jeff Sterbenz and family; Trudy Soland and her family; Gary Soland and Jody (Auman) and their family; Cindy (Soland) Bergh and her family; Kathy (Soland) Titchbourne and husband Robert Titchbourne and family; Lisa (Soland) Stilwell and husband Deryk Stilwell; Bryan Soland and his family; Julie (Soland) Ford and husband Robert Ford and family; Michael Soland and wife Joan (Wilkinson) Soland and family; Dan Soland and wife Dottie (Thorn) Soland and family; Robert Soland and wife Jennifer (Treder) Soland and family; and Brenda (Soland) Menadelook and her family.

Julia was preceded in death by her parents, John and Hilda Halverson; her husband Ernie Soland; son James Soland; sisters Hazel (Halverson) Espe and husband Robert Espe, Clara Halverson, Gunhild Rebecca Halverson and Elsie (Halverson) Haugen and husband Ivan Haugen; brother Orville Halverson and wife Dorothy (Flaskerud) Halverson and their son Kevin Halverson; nephew Roger Espe and his son Jay Espe; nephew Gene Espe; great-nephew Tony Martin; niece Irene (Haugen) Falck and her husband Harold Falck; nephew James Haugen; and grandson Zachary Soland.

A funeral service was held June 1, 2024, at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church in Decorah with Rev. Peter Kowitz presiding. Burial was in the church cemetery.

Helms Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Service Notice PHILLIP JOHN JOHNSON (PJ), 75, of Ridgeway, died May 29, 2024, in Decorah. A celebration of life will be held from 12-3 p.m., Saturday, July 13, at the Inwood Ballroom in Spillville.

Decorah Schools conference affiliation debate continues

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER The Decorah Community School District is waiting on the sidelines, anticipating word on a possible new athletic conference affiliation starting in the 2025-26 school year.

In recent months, the Northeast Iowa Conference, of which Decorah is a member, has moved closer to collapse with a long line of member schools departing.

The NEIC dates back to 1920 – making it the oldest conference Iowa. Decorah Schools had previously applied to join the growing Upper Iowa Conference but was denied in April. Starting in the 202526 school year, the UIC will include former NEIC schools such asNew Hampton, Waukon and Cresco, as well as others like North Fayette Valley, MFL MarMac, South Winneshiek, Postville, Clayton Ridge, Elkader Central, Turkey Valley, Lansing Kee and West Central.

Decorah Community School District Superintendent Tim Cronin updated the district’s board of directors Monday night on an upcom-

5

ing mediation hearing with the Iowa Department of Education – the mediation began on the heels of UIC’s April decision to deny Decorah entry into the conference.

School officials have said Decorah’s options for new conference membership are limited due to the district’s geographic location in the corner of the state and the size of the school.

Cronin, along with Decorah High School Athletic Director Adam Riley and DCSD Board member Ron Fadness, who also serves on the Iowa High School Girls Athletic Association Board of Directors, will represent the district at the July 17 mediation in Cedar Falls. Cronin said Charles City and Waverly also have meditation meetings that same day in Cedar Falls.

Charles City is hoping to join the North Central Conference and Waverly is petitioning to join the WaMaC. Cronin said factors to be considered during the upcoming meditation include travel distance and competitive balance.

Travel distance to games for Decorah students and parents is estimated to be an av-

erage of 40 miles within the UIC. When looking at a possible membership with another conference, such as the WaMaC, travel distance for games would be an average of 112 miles one-way. The closest WaMaC school from Decorah is 68 miles away in Independence – the farthest is Grinnell, which is 145 miles away.

As it stands, the NEIC will continue to include five current member schools – Decorah, Cresco, Waukon, New Hampton and Charles City – for the 2024-25 school year.

Waverly Shell-Rock is leaving the conference after this current year and will be independent during the 2024-25 school year.

Cronin said, if no decision is found during mediation, the Department of Education has 60 days in which to propose a solution.

Abby Michelle Theisen, age 30, died Thursday, July 4, 2024, at home with her family.

Abby was born on Nov. 12, 1993, in Decorah to Michelle Gilson and Tim Theisen.

She attended school in Decorah and Abby Theisen graduated high school in 2012. She continued her education at NICC, where she received her associate of arts degree. She also studied forensic psychology through South New Hampshire University.

At age 16, Abby was a passenger in a car with an unlicensed driver and two other friends. They were on their way to their soccer picnic, but they didn’t make it there. Unfortunately, they were involved in a tragic car accident. The other girls received minor injuries; however, Abby was badly hurt. From that day on, she was

a quadriplegic. She was hospitalized in La Crosse, Wisconsin, but was later transferred to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in Chicago. She had a lengthy stay there with unfortunately, no promise of movement.

She eventually returned home and completed her high school years.

After returning home, Abby’s mother Michelle took over her care and comfort with help from outside caregivers, and she continued to do so for 14 years. Through the years, Abby had many surgeries and hospitalizations due to ongoing complications from her previous injuries.

Though there were struggles throughout Abby’s short life, she never gave up. Her much cherished sense of humor often shone through. Even when Abby was down or ill, she could still make people laugh.

She will be deeply missed by her family and many friends.

Fly high and free, beautiful Abby. You will be loved forever.

Abby is survived by her mother Michelle Gilson; her father Tim Theisen; siblings: Elisha (James) Rudolph, Megan Doda, Matt Doda and Alexis McKenna; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; and by her beloved pets, Lady and Josie.

Abby was preceded in death by her grandparents, Dewey and Ruth Theisen and John and Evelyn Gilson; aunt Marie Heiar; uncles Ron Gilson and Don Nelson; second-cousin C.J. Gilson; and her beloved pet Loki.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, July 12, at Decorah Lutheran Church, 309 Winnebago St., Decorah.

A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the start of service at the church.

Online condolences and expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.FredricksonFuneralHomes.com.

Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Bangor Chapel is assisting with arrangements.

member. Richard was an avid NASCAR fan, with Dale Ernhardt being his favorite driver.

He would stack his TVs on top of each other if a race and sporting event were airing at the same time. When Richard’s health was better, he liked to go to the races at the Mighty Howard County Fairgrounds, go fishing and vacation with his family. He enjoyed puzzle books, attending car shows and keeping track of the latest farming news.

Richard is survived by his daughter Melanie Bruening of Cedar Rapids; friend William “Al” Levis of Cedar Rapids; stepson Jon Myers of Dubuque; son-in-law Dennis (Susan) Zweibohmer of Ionia; three grandchildren: Katelyn Zweibohmer of Charles City, Gabriel Zweibohmer of New Hampton, and Kenneth Zweibohmer of Ionia; brother Doug Bruening of Cresco; motherin-law Anna Myers of Cresco; brothers-in-law Dave (Beverly

Blaess) Myers of Ridgeway, and Bill Winsell of Decorah.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; wife Diane; daughter Jennifer Zweibohmer; brother Gary (Sandra) Bruening, sisters-in-law Donna Bruening and Deb Winsell, and father-in-law Gene Myers.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 11, at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Cresco with Father Jacob Rouse officiating.

Richard will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery. Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 10, followed by a visitation from 4-7 p.m. at Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home in Cresco. Visitation will continue from 1011 a.m. Thursday morning at the church.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations may given to the family.

Online condolences may be left at Hindtfuneralhomes.com

Richard Bruening May 22, 1951 - July 5, 2024

Richard C. Bruening, 73, of Cresco, died Friday, July 5, 2024, at his home.

Richard Charles Bruening was born in Cresco on May 22, 1951, the son of Vincent and Evelyn (Schultz) Bruening. He Richard was a gradBruening uate from Crestwood High School. On May 1, 1976, Richard married Diane Myers at the Assumption Catholic Church in Cresco. After Assumption closed, Richard became a member of Notre Dame Catholic Church in Cresco. Richard practiced his faith by attending church regularly, serving as a gift bearer and greeting people as they came in for the service.

He was a fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Farm Bureau and AARP

DECORAH’S 175TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE EDITION COMING SOON!

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support in doing, but ultimately we aim to improve on many the things the paper is already doing and hopefully make the Decorah Leader into one of the best newspapers in the state.”

The Decorah operation will join Enterprise’s roster of Iowa publications, including the Charles City Press — where the two Decorah products are physically printed — the Kossuth County Advance, the New Hampton Tribune, the Spencer Reporter and the Dickinson County News.

Boyes has written for both the Spencer Reporter and the Dickinson County News over the course of his eight years in the industry. He began his news career as a staff writer at the Spencer Reporter in the spring of 2016, transitioning to the Dickinson County News early the following year. In 2021, he was named news editor at the DCN and served as the sole news writer for the weekly newspaper and its 1,200 subscribers in northwest Iowa. He was also responsible for supplying news content in the Okobojian — a free weekly summer publication circulated throughout the Iowa Great Lakes region — as well as the annual Experiance Okoboji visitors guide.

“I actually gave my notice to the company earlier this spring, thinking my family’s move to Decorah this summer would mark the end of my time behind a news desk,” Boyes said. “Unbeknownst to me, Chris had already been looking at purchasing the Deocrah paper for some time before that, so when he approached me several months

continued from front page later about filling the editor’s position in the very town I was moving to, I didn’t hesitate to jump on board.”

During Boyes’ eight years writing local news, he has earned 10 first-place awards individually from the Iowa Better Newspaper Association for his writing and photography, in addition to more than 25 second and third-place honors. His work also contributed to numerous staff awards for the Dickinson County News, which has placed among the top three newspapers in its competition category 14 times since 2011 — taking the top slot seven times, two of which occurred during Boyes’ time on staff there.

“I’ve been fortunate to have learned from some very experienced editors and publishers who are dedicated to print journalism before I ever sat in an editor’s chair myself,” Boyes said. “I’m excited to share my skills and knowledge with the talented staff here in Decorah can continue providing quality news coverage for the community they know so well.”

Northeast Iowa isn’t entirely new territory for Boyes and his family. The news editor was born in Elkader, where his mother worked for the Clayton County Register. Though the family moved while he was still young, they often visited family and friends in communities like Guttenberg and Garnavillo. Boyes’ wife Janet is a 2009 graduate of Luther College, and her family has owned property in Glenwood Township since the early ‘90s, prompting many a visit each year.

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Supervisors

back to school.”

Steines said the county still has two offices in the Smith building, County Social Services and the Historic Preservation Commission, which the county will still need to access after the transfer of ownership. The group discussed the possibility of NEICAC renting office space to the county offices after the transition. Supervisor Co-Chair Mark Vick, who sits on the public health board, said that arrangement would be suitable. Steines also put forward the option of potentially allowing NEICAC to continue using the county’s internet service in the building as compensation for the offices County Social Services and the Historic Preservation Commission would occupy.

Wilkins said NEICAC installed its own internet connection, because its needs are different, but she will talk with the corporation’s information technology staffer about the county’s inquiry.

Steines said, if the internet arrangement doesn’t work out, the county attorney would be prepared to enter into a lease agreement for the two office spaces.

Disaster relief Winneshiek County Engineer Michael Kueny reported to the board of supervisors Monday morning that the county would be applying for disaster relief from the Federal Emergency Management Agency due to recent flooding.

Following the meeting, Winneshiek County Emergency Management Coordinator Sean Snyder said the county will be seeking $50,000 to cover costs associated with the flooding, and he expects that amount to increase. Decorah City Engineer John Hjelle added he will seek assistance totaling $391,000 to repair half of a block along Winneshiek Ave-

continued from front page

Demolition on Bridge 5 has begun. Kueny reported the bridge’s deck has been removed, while its abutments remain in place. (Photo submitted) nue, remove trees and debris from the Fifth Street bridge as well as downstream from the cut and repair a number of levy outlet pipes which are no longer sealed properly.

Other business • A public hearing will be held at 9:30 a.m., Monday, July 29, to discuss an amendment to the county’s budget for Fiscal Year 2025. During the public hearing, the supervisors will discuss the possibility of making an additional $500,000 payment on the recently-purchased Community Services Building in attempt to pay it off early.

• Supervisor Mark Faldet reported that the county is making progress on its rural waste collection site data survey.

• Supervisor Shirley Vermace reported the Chrysalis Children’s Center will open this fall at 219 W. Water St. in Decorah. The location perviously housed Alliant Energy offices. The new facility will provide children age 2 to 18

with an array of services customized for their individual development needs. Vermace said the center will be holding activities during Nordic Fest and will have brochures available.

• Supervisor Steve Kelsay reported that the county is still investigating the cause of leaks in the courthouse’s roof, which was newly shingled just three years ago. The leaks are unresolved, and the shingles are being tested to determine if they’re defective.

• Supervisor Dan Langreck said the Winneshiek County Development and Tourism office is planning to hold a grand opening in September for the new Sunflower Child Development and Discovery Center.

• The supervisors entered a closed session to discuss Peel v. Winneshiek County.

• Demolition on Bridge 5 has begun. Kueny reported the bridge’s deck has been removed, while its abutments remain in place.

• Frankville Road culverts 1 and 2 are complete. Kueny said

the road closure on the west end of Frankville Road will be moved past 140th Avenue this week to allow easier access to the county landfill.

• K Construction of St. Olaf will begin working on Bridges 313 and 317A. Kueny said the company will begin construction this week by extending a County Road W14 culvert north of 147th Street.

• A resolution awarding the W14 contract to Mathy Construction Company of Onalaska, Wisconsin, was unanimously approved. Mathy’s bid was for approximately $1.6 million from Fort Atkinson to Spillville and $2.19 million for Spillville to Ridgeway.

• Fahrner Asphalt Sealers, LLC was awarded the contract to apply Ottoseal to Canoe Ridge Road with a bid of $239,770.36.

The next Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m., Monday, July 15, at the courthouse annex.

‘Community’ attracts art lovers from across the country to Ludeking’s annual Down on the Farm Iron Pour

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER The twentieth annual Down on the Farm Iron Pour, hosted by internationally-respected Decorah native and iron artist Kelly Ludeking was held July 1-8 at his family’s farm, attracting dozens of artists, fans and novices from all over the county and a couple from overseas. But, “pour” participants agree there’s more to the event than iron, molten metal and making art.

“A big portion of this is the community it brings together,” said artist John Bradley of Minneapolis, who has been to every Down on the Farm Iron Pour since its inception.

“Casting iron is something you can’t do as an individual, and it requires community. Kelly is spectacular, and one of the great things about working with him is you have the freedom to be experimental. A lot of places have guidelines of what you can do, and here, you can play around and come up with new techniques. It’s really important for self-discovery — as well as discovering how far you can push the medium.”

Dekalb, Illinois resident John Siblik agreed and said he has participated in multiple pours over the last 17 years.

“There is an amazing sense

Ludeking’s DOTF mascot, a 1935 barn built the same year Kelly’s dad was born, stands watch as a team pours metal into an open face mold. Along with the two people on the ladle, a skimmer directly across from the crucible skims impurities back from the top of the molten metal so they don’t end up in the final piece. (Photo courtesy of Austin Kedrowski, Chicago) of community here, and there are amazing people from all over the country and even some from overseas,” Siblik said. “A lot of these people I’ve known for ages.”

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Artist Tatiana Blanch, another Minneapolis artist, said this is her ninth pour, and she also comes to the pour to make art and for the community.

“It’s a one-of-a-kind event, and there’s so much more to be gained,” she said. “It’s a multi-experience thing.”

Alisa Toninato, owner of FeLion Studios in Waunakee, Wisconsin, hosted the ice cream tent at Saturday night’s ice cream social. The iron artist, who makes cast iron cookware, started participating in Ludeking’s pours in 2009 and made the molds for the ice cream cones being used that night.

“Kelly has been an absolute staple in my career for so many reasons,” Tonina-

to said. “He’s taught me so much. He’s a conduit for a nationwide network of metal casters. He’s my mentor, my best friend, my brother, my spirit animal. I love this event, because Kelly’s a connector.

We’re all at different levels, and no mater what, he continues teaching and keeping the respect, generosity and passion for the art.”

Ludeking said this year’s pour was a great success, with a turnout of more than 50 artists and more than 100 additional participants “there to witness the creation of art on Saturday night where we cast 4,700 pounds of recycled cast iron radiators. The crew and furnace all performed exceptionally well.”

CLASSIFIEDS & PUBLIC NOTICES

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | NEWS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

Pulpit to Pulpit

continued from front page

Dozens upon dozens of runners and walkers crossed the starting line outside Decorah’s Pulpit Rock Brewing Company during the annual Pulpit to Pulpit 5K, which raises funds for area organizations. (Photo by Seth Boyes) hind the starting line — the highest total recorded since 2019, according to Hughes.

Hughes largely credited the run’s origins to the Pulpit Rock Brewing’s co-founder Pete Espinosa. He had been mulling over the idea of creating an event the brewery could host for the community each Independence Day, she said, and he eventually landed on the idea of a 5K fundraiser to support local organizations.

Today the event is supported by a dozen sponsors, who Hughes noted cover expenses associated with hosting the 5K, allowing registration fees to be put directly toward the donated funds.

The Pulpit to Pulpit run debuted in 2018 and is now in its sixth year, having skipped a year during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hughes said the annual run has supported a total of 11 local organizations as of the 2024 event.

“Our purpose, intentionally, is to pick small organizations where a fundraiser of this size, which raises a couple thousand dollars for each organization, is more than a drop in the bucket to them

7

— where that can be a meaningful donation for their year,” Hughes said.

This year’s chosen recipients were Toys ‘Go Round — a local toy-lending library — and Helping Services for Youth and Families, formerly known as Helping Services of Northwest Iowa, which provides family support and youth mentoring services in addition to resources and other education on domestic abuse and substance misuse prevention.

Officials with Toys Go ‘Round indicated the nonprofit has yet to formally decided what the donation will be used for, but interim coordinator Sarah Frydenlund noted the organization is looking to hire a new director and ensuring the nonprofit is sustainable for the next 30 years or so. Toys Go ‘Round serves more than 300 children each year, according to its website, and Frydenlund said officials there hope to improve access to their services in addition to launching a new volunteer program for all ages — she said “play ambassadors” will help test toys and demonstrate how to use

them in an effort to be sure they remain in like-new condition for as long as possible.

“The donation from Pulpit to Pulpit just helps us continue the good work that we do,” Frydenlund said.

Likewise, officials with Helping Services for Youth and Families were grateful for the funds this year’s 5K raised for their work.

“The organizers do a wonderful job with the event each year,” said Carson Eggland, executive director of Helping Ser-

vices. “Our team will utilize the funding for our greatest need, which this year is the Domestic Abuse Resource Center at Helping Services. “ Eggland said advocates at Helping Services provide free and confidential services for survivors of domestic violence who reside in northeast Iowa. The nonprofit’s services can be accessed by phone or online round the clock seven days a week.

Decorah City Council Member Steve Zittergruen said he and his family have participated in most

if not all of the Pulpit to Pulpit runs since they debuted six years ago — he added that his children have been a part of the yearly event since they were old enough to get out of their strollers.

“I think it’s great for Decorah to have an activity on the Fourth of July that kicks the day off,” Zittergruen said. “For our family, it’s a fun way to start the day with friends and neighbors celebrating the holiday. And I know personally that the money it raises for charity does a lot of good.”

Zittergruen went on to say he

serves on the board of the Decorah Food Pantry, which was selected as a recipient of the funds several years ago, and he was amazed by the financial support area runners ultimately provided to the pantry. He indicated that’s part of the reason he and his family continue to lace up their running shoes each year.

“I guess, even if it were a free fun run, we’d still do it, but it sure makes me feel better about waking up early in the morning that there’s money going to a good cause,” Zittergruen said.

court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated this 9th day of July, 2024.

Decorah Bank & Trust Executor of Estate Erick Kephart 202 E. Water Street Decorah, IA 52101 Jana Evelsizer Olson ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 Email: jana.olson @andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: July 18, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion July 11 & 18, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARVIN K. HOVDEN DECEASED. PROBATE NO. ESPR 016306 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Marvin K. Hovden, Deceased, who died on or about June 8, 2024: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 3rd day of July, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Marvin K. Hovden, deceased, bearing date of June 3, 2021, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Daryl Hovden, Dale Hovden, David Hovden and Denise Hovden-Baumler were appointed co-executors of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated this 9th day of July, 2024.

Daryl Hovden 2861 Clay Hill Road Decorah, IA 52101 Co-executor of estate Dale Hovden 1880 Meadowlark Road Decorah, IA 52101 Co-executor of estate David Hovden 2845 Middle Hesper Road Decorah, IA 52101 Co-executor of estate Denise Hovden-Baumler 1812 284th Street Decorah, IA 52101 Co-executor of estate Daniel L. Fretheim ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 dan.fretheim@ andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: July 18, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion July 11 & 18, 2024

Public Notices IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JENINE E. JORDAHL, DECEASED. PROBATE NO. ESPR 016304 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Jenine E. Jordahl, Deceased, who died on or about April 3, 2024: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 28th day of June, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Jenine E. Jordahl, deceased, bearing date of January 17, 1997, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Decorah Bank & Trust was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - AMENDMENT OF CURRENT BUDGET Board of Supervisors of WINNESHIEK COUNTY Fiscal Year July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025 The Board of Supervisors of WINNESHIEK COUNTY will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of amending the current budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 Meeting Date/Time: 7/29/2024 09:30 AM Contact: Benjamin Steines Phone: (563) 382-5085 Meeting Location: Courthouse Annex There will be no increase in taxes. Any residents or taxpayers will be heard for or against the proposed amendment at the time and place specified above. A detailed statement of: additional receipts, cash balances on hand at the close of the preceding fiscal year, and proposed disbursements, both past and anticipated, will be available at the hearing. Budget amendments are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult https://dom.iowa.gov/local-gov-appeals.

Total Budget Current Total Budget After REVENUES & OTHER FINANCING SOURCES as Certified Amendment Current Amendment or Last Amended Taxes Levied on Property Less: Uncollected Delinquent Taxes - Levy Year Less: Credits to Taxpayers Net Current Property Tax Delinquent Property Tax Revenue Penalties, Interest & Costs on Taxes Other County Taxes/TIF Tax Revenues Intergovernmental Licenses & Permits Charges for Service Use of Money & Property Miscellaneous Subtotal Revenue Other Financing Sources: General Long-Term Debt Proceeds Operating Transfers In Proceeds of Fixed Asset Sales Total Revenues & Other Sources EXPENDITURES & OTHER FINANCING USES Operating: Public Safety and Legal Services Physical Health and Social Services Mental Health, ID & DD County Environment & Education Roads & Transportation Government Services to Residents Administration Nonprogram Current Debt Service Capital Projects Subtotal Expenditures Other Financing Uses: th Operating Transfers Out Refunded Debt/Payments to Escrow Total Expenditures & Other Uses Excess of Revenues & Other Sources over (under) Expenditures & Other Uses Beginning Fund Balance - July 1, 2024 Increase (Decrease) in Reserves (GAAP Budgeting) Fund Balance - Nonspendable Fund Balance - Restricted Fund Balance - Committed Fund Balance - Assigned Fund Balance - Unassigned Total Ending Fund Balance - June 30, 2025

Join our Team!

Preschool - 8 Grade School Principal

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

12,596,844 180 432,069 12,164,595 180 40,200 1,619,495 10,526,302 45,300 830,025 403,256 1,762,559 27,391,912

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

12,596,844 180 432,069 12,164,595 180 40,200 1,619,495 10,526,302 45,300 830,025 403,256 1,762,559 27,391,912

14 15 16 17

0 2,920,425 105,000 30,417,337

0 0 0 0

0 2,920,425 105,000 30,417,337

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

6,775,656 1,902,331 0 3,393,438 8,801,200 898,500 3,579,519 4,500 0 3,780,000 29,135,144

0 0 0 175,759 0 28,300 0 0 0 512,500 716,559

6,775,656 1,902,331 0 3,569,197 8,801,200 926,800 3,579,519 4,500 0 4,292,500 29,851,703

29 30 31

2,920,425 0 32,055,569

32

-1,638,232

33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

11,482,793 0 0 7,392,399 0 0 2,452,162 9,844,561

Kindergarten Teacher

St. Benedict Catholic School 0 in Decorah, IA is 2,920,425 seeking a full 0 0 time Kindergarten teacher for 716,559 32,772,128 the 24-25 school year.

A State of Iowa teaching -716,559 -2,354,791 certifi cate is11,482,793 required. Downsizing and Moving Sale 0 Friday, July 12th 8-7, Saturday, 0If interested please 0 0 0 contact Steve Haluska at July 13th 8-4. Storage containers, -184,020 7,208,379 shaluska@st-ben.pvt.k12.ia.us stroller, child car seat, canning jars, 0 or 0contact the school at craft supplies, fabric and quilting 0 0 563-382-4668.

-532,539 1,919,623

Garage Sale

-code-716,559

9,128,002

Explanation of Changes: Additional payments on purchase of Community Services Building. Roll-over unspent funds for other projects that were not completed in FY24.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • July 11, 2024

07/09/2024 09:59 AM

Help Wanted Decorah Community Schools for the 2024-2025 School Year:

Decorah Community Schools

NEEDS: High School Kitchen Server

Strength & Conditioning Coordinator Decorah Middle School

The Decorah School District is seeking a Strength & Conditioning Coordinator at the Decorah Middle School for the 2024-25 school year. The position reports to the Decorah Middle School Activities Director.

Terms of employment: 12 month year, August 1 to July 31.

JOB DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATIONS

• Valid Iowa Teaching License • Coaching License • Coaching Authorization

John Cline Kitchen Server

Hours: 9:45 am to 1:15 pm (Mon-Fri) Send letter of application and resume to Food Service Director, Chad Elliott, 100 Claiborne Drive, Decorah, IA 52101, by end of the day on July 7, 2024, or open until position is filled.

The Decorah Community School District is an EEO/AA employer.

27-4-PJ-12

Regional Advertising

Parts Manager/ Mechanic

Hours: 7:30 am to 1:00 pm (Mon-Fri)

at the office of the Winneshiek County Engineer, 201 W Main St, Decorah, IA 52101.

Class A CDL with medical card are required at application.

Applications and job description are available at the Engineers Office and www.winneshiekcounty.org/ jobs.html.

Applications are due July 12, 2024 at 4pm or until position is filled. EOE

Reading/Language Arts Teacher St. Benedict Catholic School in Decorah, IA is seeking a .8 time 6-8 grade reading/language arts teacher for the 24-25 school year.

A State of Iowa teaching certificate is required.

If interested please contact Justin Johnson at jjohnson@st-ben.pvt.k12.ia.us or contact the school at 563-382-4668.

27-tf-PJ-12

Auction Calendar

Shooting Star Native Seeds is seeking a

Seed Plant & Production Specialist

Responsibilities include operating equipment to process native seed, as well as field maintenance and harvesting. Full-time, yearround. Position includes physical labor & outdoor work.

Open until filled.

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Send letter of application and resume to DMS Athletic Director, Jake Nimrod, 405 Winnebago Street, Decorah, IA 52101, by end of the day on July 11, 2024, or open until position is filled. The Decorah Community School District is an EEO/AA employer.

The Decorah Community School District is an EEO/AA employer.

Winneshiek County Secondary Roads will be accepting applications for the full-time position of

26-6-JP-12

• Organizes, coordinates and implements the overall strength and conditioning program for Decorah Middle School • Designs strength and conditioning programs for all student athletes for Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer sessions • Provides leadership and instruction to athletic coaches in the use of equipment and training of student athletes • Develops and places into operation appropriate rules and regulations for management and supervision • Establishes supervision schedule for other staff members and instructs other supervisors in techniques and responsibilities • Maintains and communicates attendance monitoring procedures • Maintains appropriate documentation of training programs • Promotes cooperation amongst and between members of coaching staffs, faculty, support personnel, and administration for advancement of the conditioning program • Assists and coordinates with the associate principal/activities director in the development and purchase of physical fitness equipment • Maintains a safe and clean environment for student athletes to participate in strength and conditioning activities • Assists coaches in motivation and encouragement of student athletes to participate in off season conditioning • Represents and supports student athletes at competitions and practices when available • Provides necessary assistance for athletic trainer in rehabbing and strengthening injured athletes • Participates in study to maintain and enhance professional competence in areas related to strength and conditioning

Page 1 of 1

Job description & application available at shootingstarnativeseed.com or at Shooting Star Native Seeds 20740 Co. Rd. 33 Spring Grove, Minnesota

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supplies, hand quilting frame, lawn seeder, wheelbarrow, coolers, -c buckets, fishing poles, motorcycle helmets, lots of garden, hand and power tools. Roller blades and poles, ice skates, 5 bicycles and helmets, 3 VCR/DVD players, record player/cassette player combo.

Lots of miscellaneous. Everything must go. MAKE AN OFFER. 2039 Grandview Rd, Decorah.

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 15 - Upcoming Online-Only Farm Line or Single Item Consignment Auction. Call now to consign 1-800-770-0347. Gehling Auction, Preston, MN. www.gehlingauction.com

Miscellaneous Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-954-5087 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 24 Farm Retirement Auction, Neverest Farms, Gerald & Christine Moellers, 2701 310th Ave., Ridgeway, IA. Sweeney Auction Service, Waukon IA, 563568-2464, www.sweeneyauctionservice.com

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PUBLIC NOTICES

8 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | NEWS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLES N. LANGLAND, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016303 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Charles N. Langland, Deceased, who died on or about May 28, 2024: You are hereby notified that on June 13, 2024, the Last Will and Testament Charles N. Langland, deceased, bearing date of May 22, 2024, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Edward S. Witkowski has been appointed Executor of the estate.

Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated June 27, 2024.

Edward S. Witkowski, Executor of Estate 302 N. Ashland La Grange Park, IL 60526 Andrew P. Nelson, ICIS#: AT0005669 Attorney for Executors Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson 101 ½ E. Water Street P.O. Box 126 Decorah, IA 52101 Date of second publication: July 11, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion July 4 & 11, 2024 ORDINANCE NO. 1332 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING DECORAH’S SIGN ORDINANCES AND CREATING A NEW CHAPTER 15.20 OF THE DECORAH MUNICIPAL CODE -SIGN CODE WHEREAS, the Decorah City Council finds that it is in the public interest to have minimum requirements for the control of signs in order to preserve, protect and promote public health, safety, and the general welfare; and WHEREAS, the Decorah City Municipal Code regulates signs in various Sections of Chapter 17.16-General Regulations of Title 17-Zoning; and WHEREAS, finds it more efficient and in the public interest to update and clarify the City’s sign regulations by creating a new Chapter 15.20 -Signs.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, as follows: SECTION 1. That Decorah City Code Sections 17.08.540, 17.08.550, 17.08.555, 17.08.560, 17.08.570, 17.08.575, 17.08.580, 17.08.590, 17.16.110, 17.16.120, and 17.16.130are hereby deleted in their entirety.

SECTION 2. That a new Chapter 15.20Sign Code is hereby established and inserted into Title 15 of the Decorah Municipal Code as follows: Chapter 15.20 -SIGN CODE 15.20.010 -Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to promote the public health, welfare and safety through reasonable, consistent and non-discriminatory sign standards. The sign regulations in the city code are not intended to regulate viewpoints, but are intended to regulate the adverse secondary effects of signs, to include adverse impact on aesthetics and traffic and pedestrian safety.

The ordinance codified in this chapter shall be known as, and may be cited as, “The Sign Code of the City of Decorah, Iowa”, and may be referred to herein as the “sign code or “this code”. It is the intent of this code to limit the aesthetic impact of signs on properties to prevent clutter and protect streetscapes, thereby preserving property values and protecting traffic safety. The accumulation of signs adversely affects these goals, property values, and public safety. This chapter must be interpreted in a manner consistent with the First Amendment guarantee of free speech. A sign displaying a noncommercial message of any type is allowed anywhere that commercial signs are allowed, subject to the same regulations applicable to such commercial signs to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech.

Unless otherwise specifically stated, all provisions of this sign code shall be interpreted to apply to commercial and noncommercial messages and speech. All signs within the city limits must be installed, maintained, and/ or removed according to the provisions of this chapter, unless specifically exempted or superseded by more specific provisions of the city code.

15.20.020 -Definitions.

A. “Device” means an object or a piece of equipment that has been designed to draw the attention of a person or the public. Additionally, “device”, depending on the context, may also mean an object or a piece of equipment or mechanism designed to serve a special purpose or perform a special function.

B. Flag, government. “Government flag” means any fabric, banner or bunting containing words, numbers, colors, patterns or symbols, used as a symbol of a government or political subdivision, including flags of the United States, States, cities, military branches, foreign nations having diplomatic relations with the United States, and other flags that have been adopted or sanctioned by an elected legislative body of competent jurisdiction.

C. Flag, non-governmental. “Non-governmental flag” means any fabric, banner or bunting containing words, numbers, colors, patterns or symbols, that does not meet the definition of “government flag”.

D. “Premises” means real property that is a tract of land, condominium unit or a rental unit, and any structures and grounds that belong to it, such as house, building, or yard, and includes commercial and non-commercial real estate.

E. Premises, off-. “Off-Premises” means any commercial or non-commercial activity, service or use of a person, business or entity conducted off the premises belonging to that person, business or entity.

F. “Sign” means any device, fixture, placard, or structure that uses any color, form, graphic, illumination, digital or other electronics, symbol, or writing designed to inform, entertain, draw attention, advertise, announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of a person or entity, or which promotes the interests of any person and that may be

viewed from the private property of another or from any public property, rightof-way or parking area. The following shall not be included in the application of the regulations herein: 1. Signs, including any type of flag, erected by the City of Decorah, the State of Iowa, or the United States government.

2. Signs located entirely inside the premises of a building or enclosed space, other than window signs.

3. Grave or cemetery markers.

G. Sign area. The surface area of a sign shall be computed as including the entire area within a regular geometric form or combinations of regular geometric forms comprising all of the display area of the sign and including all of the elements of the matter displayed.

Frames and structural members not bearing advertising matter shall not be included in computation of the surface area, except where such frames and structural members are used as an integral primary or subsidiary portion of the graphic, literal or numerical display, such as forming a picture frame to facilitate continuity or providing contrasts to emphasize the intended purpose of the sign.

H. Sign, digital. “Digital sign” means a sign where a computer or similar device is used to set a sequence of displays by the owner.

I. Sign, electronic. “Electronic sign” means a sign where the display is changed by the owner using a computer or similar device and the display remains static until changed by the owner. Electronic signs shall only display a static message or messages. There shall be no effects of movement, blinking, animation, scrolling, flashing, or similar effects in the individual images.

J. Sign, exterior. “Exterior sign” means a sign which directs attention to a business, profession, service, product or activity sold or offered upon the premises where such a sign is located. An exterior sign may be a sign attached flat against a building or structure, or projecting out from a building or structure, or erected upon the roof of a building or structure. An exterior sign may include any of the following: 1. Fascia Sign. A single-faced building or wall sign which is directly attached to and parallel to its supporting wall; 2. Projecting Sign. A double-faced building or wall sign projecting at a right angle to its supporting wall; 3. ... Marquee Sign. A sign attached to and contained within the perimeter of the face or valance of a marquee; 4. Roof Sign. A sign attached upon or above a roof or parapet of a building. (See Attachment C, at the end of this title, for illustrations of sign types and areas.)

5. Awning Sign. Signs painted, placed or installed upon any structure made of cloth, metal or other material attached to a building when the same is so erected as to permit its being raised or retracted to a position against the building when not in use.

K. Sign, freestanding or post. “Freestanding or post sign” means any sign erected or affixed in a rigid manner to one or more poles, posts or the ground, and which carries any advertisement strictly incidental and subordinate to a lawful use of the premises on which it is located, including signs, or sign devices indicating the business transacted, services rendered, or goods sold or produced on the premises. A freestanding or post sign may also include the following: 1. Directory Sign. A sign containing the name of a building, complex or center and two or more identification signs or panels of the same size, color and general design, limited to one identification sign per occupant; 2. Monument Sign. A structure, built on grade, that forms an integral part of the sign or its background.

L. Sign, illuminated. “Illuminated sign” means any sign lighted from a source inside of the sign or by a source outside of the actual sign.

M. Sign, institutional. “Institutional sign” means an on-premises sign for institutions such as a religious institution, school, library, public building, community center or similar institutions, containing the names of buildings, dates of erection, monumental citations, commemorative tablets, names of institutions, and similar signs when carved into stone, concrete or other building material or made of bronze, aluminum or other permanent type of construction.

N. Sign, integral. “Integral sign” means a sign for names of buildings, dates of erection, monumental citations, commemorative tablets, and other similar signs when carved into stone, concrete or other building material or made of bronze, aluminum or other permanent type of construction and made an integral part of the structure to which they are attached.

O. Sign, public. “Public sign” means a sign of a noncommercial nature and in the public interest, erected by or upon the order of a public officer in the performance of public duty, such as safety signs, danger signs, trespassing signs, traffic signs, memorial plaques, signs of historical interest, and other similar signs, including signs designating hospitals, libraries, schools, and other institutions or places of public interest or concern.

P. Sign, temporary. “Temporary sign” means any sign not permanently attached to the ground, wall or building, and intended to be displayed for a short and limited period of time and is related to an event of a fixed and limited time or duration.

Q. Sign, window. “Window sign” means a sign which is displayed between zero and ten feet behind a window or within a building, and when oriented so as to be viewed from the street or sidewalk.

15.20.030- Signs authorized without the need for a permit.

Signs hereinafter designated are authorized in all parts of the city without the need of a sign permit, although such signs may be subject to other approval procedures, as applicable, such as site plan approval.

A. Temporary Signs. Unless otherwise noted, one non-illuminated sign, not to exceed thirty-two square feet, shall be permitted per street frontage. Such signs shall not extend higher than four feet above grade level and shall not constitute a safety or traffic hazard, to include hindering a driver’s line of sight with other traffic. Temporary signs shall be removed within seven days following the completion of the event.

B. Public Signs.

C. Window Signs. Non-illuminated window signs when oriented so as to be viewed from the street or sidewalk; provided, however, that illuminated window signs shall be permitted only in those districts where illuminated signs are permitted.

D. Signs not exceeding one square foot in area and bearing only property numbers, post box numbers, names of occupants of premises, or other identification of premises not having commercial connotations.

E. Government flags.

F. Non-governmental flags. One non-illuminated non-governmental flag, not to exceed fifteen square feet, shall be permitted per street frontage.

G. Integral decorative or architectural features of buildings, except letters, trademarks, moving parts or moving lights.

H. Signs directing and guiding traffic and parking on private property but bearing no advertising matter.

15.20.040 - Prohibited signs.

Signs hereinafter designated shall be prohibited in the city of Decorah.

A. Obsolete Signs. Signs that advertise an activity, business, product, or service no longer conducted on the premises on which the sign is located.

B. Banners, Balloons, Posters, Etc. Signs which contain or consist of banners, balloons, posters, pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners, or other similarly moving devices, except as specifically provided in Section 15.20.030. These devices when not part of any sign shall also be prohibited.

C. Portable Signs. Signs that are not otherwise permitted by this chapter and that are not permanently anchored or secured to either a building or the ground, except as allowed

by Section 11.20.080 sidewalk displays of the Decorah Municipal Code.

D. Signs and other Devices on Public Property Prohibited. No sign, handbill, sticker, flag, streamer, banner, marking or any other device, shall be placed or erected in the public right-of-way or on any other public property, unless otherwise specifically authorized under state law or city code, or approved in writing by the proper government agency or duly authorized government official (hereinafter “sign or device”). Any such sign or device installed or placed on public property shall be deemed illegal, abandoned and forfeited to the city and subject to confiscation. In addition to other remedies available, the city shall have the right to recover from the owner or person placing such sign or device the cost of removal and disposal of such object. For purposes of this chapter, public property includes, but is not limited to, any public street, park, building, place, alley, sidewalk, plaza, bridge, traffic control device, sign, flag pole, public right of way, light or utility pole in the public right of way or on any public property, or any other public property owned or controlled by the city and dedicated for use by the city or for public use.

E. Flashing Signs. No flashing, blinking or rotating lights shall be permitted on either permanent or temporary signs.

F. Moving Signs. No sign shall be permitted with any part that moves by mechanical or electronic means.

G. Painted Wall Signs. Off-premises signs painted on building walls for commercial purposes.

H. Digital signs. No digital signs, including billboards or other digital display signs, on or off-premises, shall be permitted.

15.20.050 - General sign regulations.

A. Conformance Required. Except as may be hereinafter specified, no sign shall be erected, placed, maintained, converted, enlarged, reconstructed or structurally altered which does not comply with all of the regulations established by this chapter, and shall also comply with all other provisions of the Decorah city code, including with Title 17 zoning regulations.

B. Maintenance. All signs shall be maintained in a good state of repair, including, but not limited to, the structural components, the lighting, if any, the portion attaching the sign to the ground or structure, and the surface features.

C. Nonconforming Signs. Where a sign exists at the effective date of adoption or amendment of the ordinance codified in this chapter that could not be built under the terms of this title by reason of restrictions on area, use, height, setback or other characteristics of the sign or its location on the lot, such sign may be continued so long as it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the following provisions: 1. N . o such sign may be enlarged or altered in a way which increases its nonconformity; however, reasonable repairs and alterations may be permitted; 2. Should such sign be destroyed by any means to an extent of fifty percent or more of its replacement cost at time of destruction, it shall not be reconstructed except in conformity with the provisions of this title.

D. Permit Required. A sign permit, approved by the sign official, which unless otherwise delegated, shall be the zoning administrator, shall be required before the erection, construction, alteration, placing, or locating of all signs conforming with this chapter and the zoning code, unless otherwise specifically exempted.

E. .Permit Not Required. A permit shall not be required for repainting without changing permanent wording, composition or colors, or for nonstructural repairs.

F. Plans. A copy of plans and specifications shall be submitted to the sign official for each sign regulated by this title. Such plans shall show sufficient details about size of the sign, location, materials to be used, and such other data as may be required, for the sign official to determine compliance with this title.

G. Appeal. Any person or persons aggrieved by the decision of the sign official to approve or disapprove a sign permit related to zoning regulations set forth in Title 17, may appeal such decision to the board of adjustment as provided by Chapter 17.28 related to variances. Any person or persons aggrieved by the decision of the sign official to approve or disapprove a sign permit that is unrelated to zoning regulations set forth in Title 17, may appeal such decision to the board of appeals, as provided by Section 15.12.060.

H. Substitution Clause. Any other provision of this chapter notwithstanding, a noncommercial message may be substituted for a commercial message or another noncommercial message on any sign lawfully erected and maintained under the Code.

15.20.60 - Electronic sign regulations.

A. Electronic signs may only display numerals and are limited in size to no more than fifty (50) percent of the sign face on no more than two sides of a sign.

B. Only one electronic sign shall be permitted per parcel.

C. Electronic signs shall not display an illuminative brightness exceeding 0.3 foot candles over ambient light levels measured at a distance of one hundred fifty feet (150’).

D. If an electronic sign is located in, or visible from a residential zoning district, it shall be located no closer than one hundred feet from the nearest parcel used for residential purposes. Measurements shall be in a straight line from the nearest point of the sign structure to the nearest point of the residential lot.

E. Permit applications for electronic signs must include a copy of the manufacturer’s operating manual, including any recommended standards for brightness and other display operations.

F. Electronic signs shall not display an illuminative brightness of such intensity or brilliance that they impair the vision or endanger the safety and welfare of any cyclist or person operating a motor vehicle.

15.20.065 - Off Premises Way Finding Signs.

A. “Way finding sign” is official signage that is located within city owned public rightof-way that identifies and gives directions to activities or sites of significant interest to the traveling public. For purposes of this chapter, traveling public means motorists, bicyclists,

and pedestrians who visit the city from out of town. The city council may adopt by a resolution a way finding sign program that includes the general design, locations and limitations of way finding signs.

B. Spacing and location of way finding signs. a. Way finding signs shall be installed only when sufficient space is available, and when it will not create a visually unappealing clutter of signage. The determination of whether sufficient space is available is the responsibility of the sign official in accordance with the way finding sign program approved by the city manager. If the number of eligible applicants exceeds the capacity to accommodate all requests, a lottery drawing shall be held to determine which applicants will be accepted. b. The message of a way finding sign is limited to a descriptive name, a directional arrow, and the travel distance to the activity or site.

C. General eligibility requirements for an activity or site. This provision describes the general requirements that an individual activity or site must meet to qualify for a way finding sign. a..Types of activities or sites. The types of activities and sites that may qualify for a way finding sign include sites or activities that are of significant interest to the general public, with special emphasis on sites and activities attractive to out of town visitors and tourists.

An attraction that is of significant interest to visitors and tourists include historic, cultural, scientific, or religious sites, as well as restaurants and breweries. b. Hours. The activity or site shall be open to the general public during regular and reasonable hours and not by appointment, reservation or membership only. i.. Seasonal activities shall be in operation a minimum of ten consecutive weeks. ii. The current months, days and hours of operation shall be conspicuously posted on the premises. c. Building or area. The activity shall be conducted in an appropriate area or in a building appropriately designed or well-suited for the purpose. i. The activity shall not be conducted in a building principally used as a residence unless there is a convenient, separate, and wellmarked entrance. ii. The building or area must be operated and maintained in accordance with all applicable ordinances, laws, and regulations for that type of business or activity. d..Location of activity or site. The activity or site shall be located within a mile of where the way finding sign will be placed. e. Signage restrictions. Each site or activity is limited to no more than two signs within the city. f. Nondiscrimination. The activity or site shall comply with all applicable laws concerning public accommodations, to include federal, state, and local laws.

D. Application and approval procedure. a. Applications shall be submitted to the sign official on a form adopted by the sign official for such a purpose. b. The city street superintendent shall verify compliance with minimum safety and setback requirements. c. Permits for way finding signs shall be subject to an application fee and annual renewal fee approved by city council resolution. The application fee and annual renewal fee cover the administrative costs and normal maintenance. d.. Way finding signs shall not be installed before payment of the application fee. e. The annual renewal fee is payable on or before June 30 of each year.

E. .Installation, maintenance, replacement and removal. a. Size of way finding sign. Unless otherwise specified in the city code, each way finding sign shall be no larger than 36” x 12”. b. The sign official, subject to city manager approval, and consistent with the way finding program approved by the council, shall develop uniform way finding signs. Way finding signs shall be limited to only the form of sign approved by the sign official. The sign official shall provide the applicant with a drawing of the proposed way finding sign prior to issuance of the way finding sign permit. c. The city is solely responsible for the installation, maintenance, removal and replacement of way finding signs that are located in the public right-of-way. d. The sign official shall determine when a way finding sign is no longer serviceable and needs to be replaced. If such a determination is made, the activity or site must pay for the cost of a new sign and installation prior to installation. e. The city is not responsible for theft or damage to way finding signs, including due to vandalism, vehicle accidents, or natural causes. If a sign requires repair or replacement due to theft or damage, the activity or site must pay the cost of a new sign and installation. f. The city shall remove way finding signs if the activity or site no longer qualifies for a way finding sign.

Repealer. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed.

Severability Clause. If any section, provision or part of this Ordinance shall be adjudged invalid or unconstitutional, such adjudication shall not affect the validity of the Ordinance as a whole, or any section, provision or part thereof not adjudged invalid or unconstitutional.

When Effective. This Ordinance shall be in effect upon its passage, approval and publication as provided by law.

Date of First Reading: June 3, 2024 Date of Second Reading: June 17, 2024 Roll Call Vote: Councilmen Voting Aye: Neal, Zittergruen, Miculinich, Parker, Olson Councilmen Voting Nay: Schissel PASSED AND ADOPTED this 1 st day of July, 2024.

CITY OF DECORAH Lorraine Borowski, Mayor ATTEST: Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion July 11, 2024 July 01, 2024 The regular meeting was called to order by Mayor Lorraine Borowski at 5:45 PM. The meeting was held at the Decorah Council Chambers and electronically.

The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Members present: Randy Schissel, Emily Neal (Zoom), Kirsten Olson, Christopher Miculinich, Brent Parker, and Steve Zittergruen, Mayor Lorraine Borowski, City Manager Travis Goedken, and City Clerk Keri Sand Mayor Borowski welcomed the new Park and Rec Director Marc Holtey.

Consent agenda was presented. a. Minutes of the June 17, 2024, Council Meeting b. Claims c. Resolution 3471 Setting Public Hearing on Decorah 2024 Quarry Street Improve-

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ments d. Appointment of Jenny Werner to Decorah Historic Preservation Committee e. Reappointment of Hayley Jackson and Nan St. Clair to Decorah Historic Preservation Committee f. Special Event Application-Holiday Lights 2024-Helping Services Olson made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. Schissel seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes.

Motion carried.

Olson made a motion to approve a resolution to install two permanent stop signs at the intersection of Water Street and Winnebago Street and the intersection of Washington Street and Water Street. Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Olson, Zittergruen, Neal. Nays: Miculinich, Parker, and Schissel. Motion failed.

Olson made a motion to approve Resolution 3472 approving the setting of the City Manager’s salary to include a 6% cost of living increase as well as the 2% performance level increase. Neal seconded the motion.

Roll call vote. Ayes: Olson, Neal, Zittergruen, Parker, Miculinich. Nays: Schissel. Motion carried.

Schissel made a motion to approve Resolution 3473 approving the purchase of the right of way at 109 Quarry Street. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Olson made a motion to approve the first reading of an ordinance amending Title 6-Animals of the Decorah Municipal Code, Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote.

Ayes: Olson, Zittergruen, Neal, Miculinich.

Nays: Schissel and Parker. Motion carried.

Neal made a motion to approve and adopt Ordinance 1332 amending Decorah’s Sign Ordinance and creating Chapter 15.20 of the Decorah Municipal Code. Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Neal, Zittergruen, Miculinich, Parker, Olson. Nays: Schissel. Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve the amendment to the John Schubbe consulting proposal. Parker seconded the motion. This amendment will request Schubbe Consulting to redo the initial proposal on Phase 1 of the Carlson Park Trail that the city received from the International Mountain Biking Association. This enables the city to have more detail on Phase 1 and be able to determine if the original estimate was accurate. Roll call vote.

All voting ayes. Motion carried.

The council decided to table the discussion on a noise pollution ordinance until all council members are present.

Mayor Borowski announced that there are openings on the Decorah Human Rights Commission and the Decorah Public Library Board.

Meeting adjourned at 6:20 PM. Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Monday, July 1, 2024 Payroll, For 6/21/24...................... 239,691.31 Credit Card Fees, For June 2024....... 6,016.92 Bcbs, Health Insurance - City Portion....83,958.02 Ia Dept Of Revenue, Taxes - Pool, Park&Rec, Sewer, Water............... 11,358.63 Black Hills Energy, Gas Bills..............550.26 Connell Flying Service Inc, June 2025 Services ......................... 3,683.31 Delta Dental, July 2024 Dental......... 1,489.76 Petty Cash, Pool Supplies ..................... 40.15 United States Treasury, Pcori Fee ....... 189.98 Compass Minerals America Inc, Bulk Coarse La-Hwy...................... 5,253.76 Postmaster Decorah Ia, Bulk Mailing. 398.29 Quadient Finance Usa, Inc, Postage ... 500.00 Yaneff, Nick, Reimbursement Union Training .................................. 267.36 Revenue to date June 28, 2024 General Fund.............................. 8,392,334.85 Local Option Sales Tax.............. 1,354,935.08 Road Use Fund........................... 1,079,074.86 Employee Benefits..................... 1,757,015.06 Hotel/Motel................................... 369,988.99 SSMID............................................ 25,276.55 Park Special Gifts........................... 18,102.90 Library Special Gifts..................... 140,186.16 Street Equip Fund........................... 29,292.38 Debt Service Fund...................... 1,230,244.61 Special Projects............................. 194,536.11 Water Utility Fund..................... 1,520,538.68 Sewer Utility Fund..................... 1,340,102.83 Enterprise Project Interest............... 16,807.13 Metronet.......................................... 80,156.00 Forest Utility................................. 114,759.19 Storm Sewer Utility......................150,922.26 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion July 11, 2024

Board Minutes June 24, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am June 24, 2024 with all members present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order.

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

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting, the liquor licenses for Highland General Store and Luna Valley Farm Store, and the claims filed with the Board. Motion carried unanimously.

Vermace presented the proposed VA guest column. Consensus of the Board was to distribute the document as presented. Vermace will coordinate the distribution to the media.

Paul Cutting and Kristin Eggen, Winneshiek Energy District, met with the Board to discuss energy usage at the Community Services Building. They offered a no cost energy audit of the building and also informed the Board that Alliant Energy could do the same.

Consensus of the Board was to have both energy audits done and analyze the results to determine if any further projects should be addressed.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Vermace to adopt resolution 24-52, authorizing transfers of funds by the Auditor for FY25.

Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Copy of the complete resolution is on file in the County Auditor’s office.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to adopt resolution 24-53, appropriating funds to the various departments for FY25. Motion carried by roll call vote with Kelsay, Vick, Langreck and Faldet voting aye; and Vermace voting nay. Copy of the complete resolution is on file in the County Auditor’s office.

Andy Van Der Maaten, County Attorney, met with the Board to discuss county issues. He discussed the lease with Decorah Area Food Pantry, and pointed out any lease over three years needs a publication and public hearing before it can be approved. Vick and Langreck will continue working with the Food Pantry representatives to discuss details. Van Der Maaten also informed the Board that there may be a need to establish a 28e agreement with the Solid Waste Agency to clarify the management of the Rural Waste Collection program.

Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Faldet to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, July 1, 2024.

Motion carried unanimously.

ATTEST Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Claims 06-24-2024 General Basic Fund Alice Abbott, Mileage............................ 61.64 Allamakee-Clayton Electric, Utility...... 51.54 Allen Roofing & Const Inc, Materials........................................ 11367.00 Alliant Energy, Utilities.....................2290.99 Amazon Capital Services, Supplies...1278.18 Jeremy Andera, Reimbursement............20.00 Mike Ashbacher, Services....................600.00 Axon Enterprise, Inc., Equipment....70176.72 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service...........................434.74 Bodensteiner Implement Company, Services............................................2950.00 Suzanne Boeke, Mileage........................40.20 Calmar City Cemetery, Vet Graves......102.00 Calmar Courier, Publications...............157.50 Calmar Motors, Services........................97.90 Casper Plumbing & Heating, Inc, Services............................................4927.88

CDW Gov’t, Supplies........................8464.97 Column Software PBC, Publications...222.18 Steve Cornelius, Mileage.......................56.28 Kasie Criswell, Reimbursement...........306.86 Decorah Electric Inc, Services.............383.42 Decorah Newspapers, Publications......937.45 Decorah Tire Service, Services............100.90 Ricardo DeLaRosa, Mileage....................8.04 Dell Marketing LP, Equipment.......... 3048.59 Nova Dowdell, Reimbursement.............10.00 Elan Financial Services, Payment........417.65 Farmers Union Co-op, Supplies.........1302.42 Five Star Telecom Inc., License Agreement...........................1566.40 Galls, LLC, Supplies............................140.66 GrapeTree Medical Staffing LLC, Services............................................2144.00 Graphics, Inc, Printing.........................256.10 H & M Tinting LLC, Services.............285.00 Tina Hall, Mileage.................................42.21 Hawkeye Sanitation, Inc, Services.......720.00 Healthcare First, Services.................... 111.02 Heartland Business Systems, Services..........................................45588.08 Heron Consulting, Inc., Services.......1800.00 Logan Hopp, Reimbursement..............107.97 Huber’s Store, Supplies......................... 79.06 IA Natural Heritage Foundation, Membership.....................................1000.00 ICCS, Registration.............................1490.00 Iowa Bicycle Coalition, Membership..100.00 Iowa Prison Industries, Supplies.........191.70 Iowa State Assoc Of Counties, Registration........................................750.00 IROC Web Design Services, Services ..45.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies..............51.79 Mike Johnson, Camp Host.....................95.00 KAR Auto Group of Decorah Inc, Vehicles..........................................70000.00 Steve Kelsay, Reimbursement...........2087.83 Keltek Incorporated, Equipment......72448.60 Elizabeth Klimesh, Mileage...................69.68 Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel............................2021.36 Chuck Lensing, Services....................2250.00 Dr. Kevin Locke, Services...................770.00 Logistics Recycling, Inc., Services......265.44 Jon Lubke, Reimbursement.................640.61 Lynch Dallas, P.C., Legal Services....1000.00 Martin Bros. Distributing, Supplies.....535.50 Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Parts.......1403.60 Mediacom, Services.............................137.98 Hanna Meyer, Reimbursement.............. 20.00 MiBroadband, Internet Services..........413.00 Microbac Laboratories, Inc., Services...60.00 Midwest Computer Brokers, Inc., Services..............................................100.00 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities........ 1336.79 Motorola Solutions, Inc, Equipment.. 3315.00 Robert Moudry, Mileage........................16.75 Mower Power, Equipment...................470.00 MWSCO, Supplies.................................21.99 Evan Neubauer, Reimbursement............20.00 Bill Ohde, Mileage............................... 113.23 Plastic Recycling of Iowa Fall, Furniture...........................................2448.40 Police Legal Sciences Inc, Services..3640.00 Prairie Moon Nursery, Supplies...........321.00 Carrie Quandahl, Services...................180.00 Rockweiler Appliance & TV, Appliances........................................1304.75 RTS Tactical, Equipment.................20381.70 Gregg Rude, Services.........................1546.50 Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services.......63.50 John Scheeler, Transport........................ 60.00 Schilling Supply Company, Supplies...325.21 Barb Schroeder, Reimbursement.........196.65 Jayne Schultz, Reimbursement............892.90 Marguerite Schwarz, Reimbursement....20.00 Julie Shimek, Reimbursement...............30.45 Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc, Services............................................1663.46 State Medical Examiners Office, Services............................................4094.00 Talon Protection Agency, Inc, Transport.......................................... 3325.00 The CTK Group, Registration..............550.00 Tricia Thein, Reimbursement............... 363.75 Deb Thorstenson, Transport................... 30.00 Thrifty White Pharmacy, Services.......558.24 Kristin Torresdal, Mileage..................... 22.11 Cole Tweten, Reimbursement................ 60.00 Uline, Equipment............................... 4249.26 Upper Explorerland RPC, Services...... 133.27 US Cellular, Cell Service..................... 292.09 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service........... 1465.02 Vestis, Services.................................... 129.00 Tim Wagner, Mileage............................. 42.75 Sherman Watts, Reimbursement.......... 591.36 Weis Buick GMC, Services................... 85.45 Winn Co Engineer, Fuel....................... 365.86 Wright Way Computers, LLC, Services.............................................. 101.91 Christopher Wuebker, Reimbursement.................................. 200.00 American Rescue Plan Fort Atkinson Nursery, LLC, Supplies............................................ 1100.00 General Supplemental Fund ICAP, Insurance................................... 263.00 Water Testing Grant Fund Skyline Construction, Inc., Plug Well.. 500.00 State Hygienic Laboratory, Services....330.00 Rural Services Basic Fund Alliant Energy, Utilities......................... 21.70 Teresa Berg, Meeting............................. 45.00 Loren Broszeit, Meeting........................ 45.00 Austin Dodd, Mileage.............................. 9.17 Elan Financial Services, Payment.......... 86.72 Nancy Eldridge, Mileage....................... 16.38 Kathryn Erickson, Mileage.................... 18.34 Jeff Feickert, Meeting............................ 45.00 Mary Hoffman, Mileage........................ 47.16 Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel.............................. 219.51 Melissa O’Rourke, Meeting................... 16.39 Donna Rasmussen, Mileage................... 39.30 Byron Schultz, Meeting......................... 45.00 Wendy Stevens, Mileage........................ 39.30 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service............... 30.63 Winn Co Landfill, Fees........................ 700.78 Secondary Road Fund Agvantage FS Inc, Propane.............. 49180.59 Alliant Energy, Utilities....................... 146.70 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service........................... 119.51 City of Ridgeway, Utilities.................... 29.26 Hovden Oil Co, Fuel.......................... 5347.57 Iowa Prison Industries, Signs............. 7092.80 John Deere Financial, Supplies............ 659.90 Michael Kueny, Reimbursement............ 20.00 MiBroadband, Services.......................... 86.53 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities.......... 965.64 MWSCO, Supplies............................... 153.82 Norsolv Systems, Supplies..................253.95 Beth Novotny, Reimbursement.............. 71.64 Perry Novak Electric, Inc, Services..... 252.00 Shuck-Briston Inc., Services............ 10894.25 UnityPoint Clinic, Services.................... 42.00 Verizon Connect A/R, Services.......... 1181.87 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service............. 759.24 Vestis, Services.................................. 1580.18 Weis Buick GMC, Services............... 1105.17 Dana Williams, Reimbursement.......... 126.92 WinnMed, Services.............................. 406.00 Ziegler Inc, Services.......................... 1031.98 Co Conserv Capital Improv Fund A & R Land Services, Inc, Appraisal.1200.00 Beaver Creek Graphix, Supplies.......... 741.00 Decorah Rental & Sales, Equipment Rental............................... 774.32 Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Services.......................................... 13153.52 Plastic Recycling of Iowa Fall, Furniture........................................... 2000.00 County Assessor Agency Fund Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel................................ 43.84 Vanguard Appraisals, Services......... 15238.00 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service............. 680.62 E911 Surcharge Fund Jeffrey Albert, Reimbursement............ 199.99 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service............................. 37.79 CenturyLink, E911 Service.................... 52.38 Greenlawn, Services.............................. 68.89 Language Line Services, Inc, Services.. 68.25 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities.......... 543.73 Racom Corporation, Services.......... 22016.95 Emergency Management Comm Casey’s Business MasterCard, Fuel..... 347.50 Keltek Incorporated, Equipment........ 6406.91 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service............... 37.99 Winneshiek Co Health Ins Fund Assured Partners Great Plains, Services.......................................... 10000.00 Midwest Group Benefits Health, Insurance.......................................... 9707.82 Midwest Group Benefits, Fees............. 960.00 Wellmark, Insurance...................... 131364.77 Grand Total.................................... 676400.16 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion July 11, 2024

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Warriors cruise by TV on softball diamond Bodensteiner.

Twirling for Turkey Valley were Bodensteiner and Raelen Manderfield.

R H E 1 2 9 x x x x 12 10 0 0 0 0 x x x x 0 0 7 South Winn stats Aubree Gesing (WP) – 2IP, 1BB, 3K 2B – Britney Hageman 1; 1B – Addison Timp 2; Avery Humpal 2; Adrienne Winings 1; Alyssa Holthaus 1; Chloe Wiltgen 1; Alyssa Timp 1; Aubrey Willey 1; RBI – Hageman 3; Ad. Timp 2; Willey 2; Winings 1; Humpal 1; Al. Timp 1; Addisen Kuennen 1; Izzy Kuboushek 1; SB – Ad. Timp 1; Adele Conway 1 Turkey Valley stats Annika Bodensteiner (LP) – 2-1/3IP, 11R, 5H, 3BB, 1K; Raelen Manderfield (RP) – 2/3IP, 1R, 2K SW TV

South Winn’s Alyssa Holthaus catches up with a pitch in the twin win at Turkey Valley last week. (Photo by Becky Walz)

R H E 0 0 0 1 7 0 0 8 8 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 1 South Winn stats Gesing (WP) – 4IP, 1H, 1BB, 3K; B. Kuennen (RP) – 3IP, 1R, 1H, 2BB, 6K 1B – Ad. Timp 3; Winings 1; Holthaus 1; Al. Timp 1; Wiltgen 1; Kuboushek 1; RBI – Wiltgen 2; Ad. Timp 1; Al. Timp 1; SB – Ad. Timp 3; Winings 3; Katie Shimek 2; Holthaus 1; Conway 1 Turkey Valley stats Manderfield (LP) – 4-1/3IP, 6R, 4H, 9BB, 3K; Bodensteiner (RP) – 2-2/3IP, 2R, 2H, 1BB, 2K 3B – Jenna Throndson 1; 1B – Bodensteiner 1 SW TV

Anytime South Winn and Turkey Valley face one another, it’s always a battle.

Last week was no exception as the Trojans hosted the Warriors, who were looking to lock in the season with an undefeated conference record Wednesday, July 3. South Winn managed to do just that as the Warriors swept the series, 12-0 and 8-1.

Game one didn’t take long as the Warriors’ Aubrey Gesing threw three frames in the no hitter. Both offensively and defensively, South Winn did everything right, collecting 10 hits and playing errorless ball.

Addison Timp scored the lone run in the first. Two more in the second gave the Warriors’ a 3-0 advantage. Looking to gain some momentum, Trojan Jenna Throndson was walked and made her way around the bases before getting thrown out at home. A nine-run third inning for the Warriors led to a three up, three down Trojan at bat for the win.

The nightcap also went the Warriors’ way after three scoreless frames of game play. South Winn’s Alyssa Timp drove in

the first run of the game on a bunt single. Then the floodgates opened for the visitors as 12 Warriors found their way to the batter’s box to score seven runs.

In the bottom half of the fifth, Turkey Valley managed to load the bases with a walk to Makinley Lutgen, a hit by Annika Bodensteiner and a SW error. A second walk of the frame issued to Morgan Vsetecka walked in the lone Trojan run of the game.

The 8-1 score held through the final two frames, giving South Winn the victory and the undefeated UIC season.

Season over

WC stops Trojans in round one

Continued from page 10

the plate. That big inning was enough to hold off the Wildcats in the final two frames as Riceville plated one run in the sixth and two in the seventh.

Logan Busta got the win with Schmitt throwing in relief. In the batter’s box, the Trojans tagged the ball 11 times with doubles by Nieman, Busta and Kriener.

Holthaus came through with a pair of singles while Byrne drove in three.

R H TV 0 0 0 2 6 0 0 8 11 Rice 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 6 Logan Busta (WP) – 5IP, 3H, 3K; Oliver Schmitt (RP) – 2IP, 3R, 3H, 1BB, 2K 2B – Russell Nieman 1; Busta 1; Jordan Kriener 1; 1B – Nieman 1; Busta 1; Schmitt 1; Aidan Holthaus 1; Caleb Kurtenbach 1; Braylen Byrne 1; Kriener 1; Ethan Orvis 1; RBI – Byrne 3; Kriener 2; Kurtenbach 1; E. Orvis 1; SB – Schmitt 2; Kurtenbach 1; Hanson 1

Senior night Having had a previous game rained out, the Trojans celebrated their five seniors Wednesday as Turkey Valley hosted Nashua-Plainfield (1112) for the regular season finale, coming out on top, 2-1.

TV combined four singles in the first frame including Caleb Kurtenbach’s grounder to score Nieman to give the Trojans the early lead. After rapping out his third hit of the game in the fifth, Schmitt scored TV’s second run on another Kurtenbach single.

Those two were enough as the Trojans held the Huskies to one in the top of the seventh with Nashua-Plainfield leaving the bases loaded.

Busta and Schmitt combined in the win on the hill, striking out a total of six. It was a 10-hit outing for the Trojans with Schmitt leading the way with his 3-for-3 performance. Nieman and Kurtenbach were 2-for-3.

The Turkey Valley softball team looked to start the Class 1A postseason strong; however, a comeback launched by West Central (9-14) ended the Trojans’ plans Monday.

The Trojans end the season 7-24 overall with a 7-9 conference mark. With no seniors on the team, Turkey Valley gained valuable experience on the diamond this season.

The final game Getting baserunners is one thing, getting them to score is another as the Trojans found to be the case Tuesday against West Central in the Class 1A regional game.

“The big difference in the game was that we left 13 runners on base while they only left four. They came up with some timely hits that we didn’t. I was proud of our girls, they played hard until the end,” said Coach Junior Hackman.

Blue Devil runs in the first, third and fourth frames didn’t hinder the Trojans’ dreams of a win. The fifth inning was proof of that as Turkey Valley sent 10 batters to the plate, scoring six runs on three hits. West Central countered with three in the bottom of the same stanza, scoring on a pair of singles, two Trojan errors and an overthrown ball to lead 7-6.

TV retook the lead in the sixth, as Delaney Busta reached on a fielder’s choice and later scored on a single by Makinley Lutgen. Having been walked, Autumn Maklenburg also

TV’s Jenna Throndson snags a high throw as Warrior Avery Humpal reaches first safely.

(Photo by Becky Walz)

scored when Alexis Elsbernd singled to put the Trojans up 8-7. Bases loaded in the seventh didn’t lead to what would prove to be crucial runs as a Blue Devil led off the bottom of the seventh with a triple and scored the winning run on a sacrifice fly to centerfield as West Central went on to win 9-8.

Bodensteiner went the distance in the circle in the loss, while TV tagged the ball 10 times. Jenna Throndson, M. Lutgen and Elsbernd all had two hits in the offensive effort while Morgan Vsetecka, Bodensteiner, Busta and Maklenburg all had one.

R H E TV 0 0 0 0 6 2 0 810 2 WC 1 0 1 2 3 1 1 9 9 7 Annika Bodensteiner (LP) – 6-1/3IP, 9R, 9H, 1BB, 2K 1B – Jenna Throndson 2; Makinley Lutgen 2; Alexis Elsbernd 2; Morgan Vsetecka 1; Bodensteiner 1; Delaney Busta 1; Autumn Maklenburg 1; RBI – Karstyn Lukes 3; M. Lutgen 2; Elsbernd 2; SB – Bodensteiner 1; Busta 1

Make-up game What was to be one of the first games of the season for the Trojans ended up being the last of regular season as Turkey Valley hosted Springville (9-22) Friday night in non-conference action.

The Orioles took the lead in the second with a pair of runs that the Trojans couldn’t get back. Springville added one in the fourth and held on to the lead despite giving up one in the bottom half of the same frame.

Both squads pushed home a run

On to round two; SW tops Postville 12-0 The season rolls on for the UIC champion South Winn softball team (22-12, 16-0 UIC) after a first-round win over Postville Monday. The Warriors played Class 2A No. 14 Wapsie Valley (22-8) on the road Wednesday, July 10. Final results and stats were unavailable at press time. Check next week’s issue of the Decorah Leader for results.

First round victory Round one of the Class 2A Region 7 game proved to be an easy one for the Warriors as they hosted Postville (0-17) Monday, coming out on top 12-0 in four innings.

Sitting down the first three Pirate batters, South Winn loaded the bases in the bottom of the opening frame, eventually scoring three runs. Postville’s lone hit of the contest came in the top of the second as the Pirates limited the Warriors’ base runners to keep them from scoring. SW went back to work in the third, loading the bases once again

and ending the frame with four more runs. A five-run fourth for the Warriors ended the game on the mercy rule.

Striking out eight batters, Aubree Gesing earned the win in the circle with Bailey Kuennen throwing the final frame in relief with a pair of Ks. Izzy Kuboushek had the only multi-hit game with a pair of singles and three RBI. Avery Humpal knocked out a single and had three RBI. Others with a hit in the win were Addison Timp, Adrienne Winings, Addisen Kuennen and Rachel Meyer.

R H Post 0 0 0 0 x x x 0 1 SW 3 0 4 5 x x x 12 7 Aubree Gesing (WP) – 3IP, 1H, 8K; Bailey Kuennen (RP) – 1IP, 1BB, 2K 1B – Izzy Kuboushek 2; Addison Timp 1; Adrienne Winings 1; Avery Humpal 1; Addisen Kuennen 1; Rachel Meyer 1; RBI – Humpal 3; Kuboushek 3; Chloe Wiltgen 2; Ad. Timp 1; Aubrey Willey 1; SB – Britney Hageman 2; Winings 1; Alyssa Holthaus 1; Jadrienne Langreck 1; Meyer 1; Kuboushek 1; Willey 1

Regular season ends Gearing up for a postseason

run, the Warriors hosted Central City (28-12) Friday, coming up on the losing end, 6-2.

Britney Hageman lifted her fifth ball of the season out of the park in the first to give the Warriors the early 2-0 lead in the bottom of the opening frame; however, that was all that South Winn would plate as Central City rolled up two runs in the second, two in the third and two in the fourth to win 6-2.

South Winn had six other hits in the contest including a triple

by Chloe Wiltgen and an extra-base hit by Avery Humpal.

Rapping out a pair of singles was Addison Timp, while Adrienne Winings and Alyssa Timp had one hit apiece.

Combining their talents on the mound were Gesing and B. Kuennen.

R H E CC 0 2 2 2 0 0 0 6 11 3 SW 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 7 3 Gesing (LP) – 4IP, 6H, 6R, 2K; Bailey Kuennen (RP) – 3IP, 2H, 1BB, 3K HR –Hageman 1; 3B –Wiltgen 1; 2B –Humpal 1; 1B – Ad. Timp 2; Winings 1; Holthaus 1; RBI – Hageman 2

Coming up in area sports July 11 – Dec sb at Charles City (Regional), 7 p.m.

July 12 – Dec bb vs. Independence (Substate), 7 p.m.

July 13 – SW bb vs. Kee (District final), 7 p.m.

Winding up for a pitch in a recent game is TV’s Annika Bodensteiner. (Photo by Becky Walz) in the sixth, but the Trojans’ seven hits in the contest weren’t enough to score the victory as they fell, 4-2.

Bodensteiner and M. Lutgen each went 2-for-3 in the batter’s box with M. Lutgen driving in the Trojans’ two runs. Bodensteiner gave up no earned runs on five hits and struck out three as she was saddled with the loss on the mound.

R H E Spring 0 2 0 1 0 1 0 4 3 0 TV 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 7 4 Bodensteiner (LP) – 7IP, 4R, 5H, 3K 1B – Bodensteiner 2; M. Lutgen 2; Lukes 1; Throndson 1; Elsbernd 1; RBI – M. Lutgen 2

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Morgan Vsetecka was one of seven Trojans to put the ball in play during Monday’s playoff game. (Photo by Becky Walz)

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R H N-P 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 TV 1 0 0 0 1 0 x 2 10 Busta (WP) – 4IP, 2BB, 3K; Schmitt (RP) – 3IP, 1R, 1H, 3K 1B – Schmitt 3; Nieman 2; Kurtenbach 2; Holthaus 1; Kriener 1; Alex Hanson 1; RBI – Kurtenbach 2; SB – Schmitt 2; Holthaus 1

The numbers Aubree Gesing combined to throw six innings in the doubleheader, recording six Ks. Bailey Kuennen also made an appearance in the circle for the Warriors, ringing up six.

South Winn combined for 18 hits on the night including a double by Britney Hageman which drove in three. Addison Timp was 5-for-6 with three RBI and four stolen bases.

The Trojans had just two hits on the day with a triple by Jenna Throndson and single by

Britney Hageman sprays up dirt as she slides in before the day by the Pirate catcher Monday in round one of the Class 2A regional competition. (Photo by Becky Walz)

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SPORTS

10 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | SPORTS@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Decorah softball team wraps up final week 2-2

Second baseman Brayden Hartl prepares to slap the tag on the Go-Hawk runner Friday. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Vikes pick up 20th win While the season may have been filled with ups and downs this year, the Decorah baseball team (20-13) picked up two wins last week finishing third in the Northeast Iowa Conference with a 14-6 record and earned its 20th win.

Monday’s game versus West Delaware was cancelled, leaving the Vikes to play their final regular season game at Waterloo West Tuesday; however, the outcome and stats were unavailable at press time.

Decorah will host Independence Friday, July 12, at 7 p.m., in Class 3A Substate 3 action. A win will move the Vikings into the substate semifinals against either Western Dubuque or Charles City Monday, July 15, at 7 p.m., at a location to be decided.

Non-conference Stepping out of the league, the Vikes shut out North Fayette Valley (3-20) Wednesday, winning by the 10-run mercy rule in five innings, 10-0.

Decorah hammered the ball early picking up three runs in the first frame, four in the third and three in the fourth, scattering 10 hits among six batters.

Kaden Alstad, Brady Bohner, Caleb Meyer and Kelley Gates all had multi-hit games with doubles by Alstad, Bohner, Meyer and Landon Kuennen.

Fisher Tweten accounted for the Vikes’ other hit. On the base paths Brayden Hartl stole a pair of bags.

Tweten earned the win, giving up no earned runs on three hits and struck out seven.

R H E NFV 0 0 0 0 0 x x 0 3 3 Dec 3 0 4 3 x x x 10 10 1 Fisher Tweten (WP) – 5IP, 3H, 7K 2B – Kaden Alstad 1; Brady Bohner 1; Caleb Meyer 1; Landon Kuennen 1; 1B – Kelley Gates 2; Alstad 1; Bohner 1; Meyer 1; Tweten 1; RBI – Gates 4; Tweten 2; Will Teslow 2; Alstad 1; Bohner 1; SB – Brayden Hartl 2; Trevor Kuennen 1; Brayden Wemark 1

Split NEIC twinbill Getting rained out a week earlier, the Vikings and GoHawks of Waverly-Shell Rock (21-12, 15-5 NEIC) made up the NEIC doubleheader Friday in Decorah, finishing in a split

night.

The visitors set the pace in game one with a tally in the first, two in the second and three in the fourth. Eighth-grade designated hitter Kasen Tyler drove in Decorah’s lone runs of the contest in the bottom of the fourth as Waverly-Shell Rock added one final run in the fifth to win, 7-2.

Shouldering the loss was senior Landon Kuennen who went five frames on the hill, giving up six earned runs on nine hits and striking out three. Cash Riehle closed out the game, throwing to innings in relief.

Decorah garnered seven hits in the contest including a pair of doubles by Trevor Kuennen.

Mason Avila also had two hits, while Meyer, Bohner and Tyler all had one.

The nightcap was also up for grabs as the Go-Hawks cashed in runs in the second and third, leading 2-0. In the bottom of the third, the scrappy Decorah squad responded with two of their own. Two runs in the fifth and four in the six gave the Vikes an 8-2 lead.

Waverly-Shell Rock went down swinging as the Go-Hawks plated three runs in the seventh to threaten before getting shut down by Decorah, 8-5.

One inning on the hill was enough for Riehle to cash in for the win with Alstad and Bohner also throwing for Decorah.

At the plate, Bohner came up with a 3-for-4 performance including a double to drive in three of the Vikes’ runs. Alstad and Gates were 2-for-2, with Hartl and Meyer driving in two apiece.

In the final week of the regular season, the Decorah softball team (10-17, 7-8 NEIC) came up with a pair of Northeast Iowa Conference wins to finish third in the league.

The Vikings open the postseason in the Class 4A Region 7 quarterfinals at Charles City (23-5) Thursday, July 11, at 7 p.m. If Decorah survives the Comets, the squad will travel to Clear Creek Amana to play Saturday, July 13, at 7 p.m.

Happy Fourth Originally scheduled for Tuesday, July 2, Mother Nature finally allowed the Vikes to host Crestwood (12-14, 5-9 NEIC) for the conference doubleheader Thursday, July 4, with softball fans celebrating the holiday at the diamond as the NEIC teams split the day.

Similar to when the two teams played on the Cadet field, the games were close with Decorah pushing the lone runs home on a two-RBI single by Lillian Olson in the third inning to give the Vikes’ a 2-0 victory.

The two NEIC squads combined for just six hits with three for each team. Rapping out singles for Decorah were Lauren

Luzum, Sydney Kipp and Olson while Clara Hjelle earned the win on the mound with four Ks. Tied 3-3 into the seventh in game two, the Cadets managed to scratch one run across and kept the Vikes from doing the same to win, 4-3.

Decorah had 10 hits in the contest that saw Luzum go 3-for-4 at the plate with a double and two RBI. Liz Bucksa connected for a pair of singles and drove in a run. Jasera Tweten also had a multi-hit game, while Hjelle and Ava Steine had the other hits for the Vikes. Kipp took the loss on six hits and three strikeouts.

R H E Crest 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 Dec 0 0 2 0 0 0 x 2 3 1 Clara Hjelle (WP) – 7IP, 2H, 4K 1B – Lauren Luzum 1; Lillian Olson 1; Sydney Kipp 1; RBI – Olson 2; SB – Liz Bucksa 1 R H E Crest 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 4 7 4 Dec 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 3 10 1 Kipp (LP) – 7IP, 4R, 6H, 3K 2B – Luzum 1; Hjelle 1; 1B – Bucksa 2; Jasera Tweten 2; Luzum 2; Hjelle 1; Ava Steine 1; RBI – Luzum 2; Bucksa 1; SB – Danika Mueller 1

Kelley Gates came up with a pair of hits in Decorah’s game two win over Waverly-Shell Rock Friday. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Round 2 It wasn’t the way any team wants the season to end; however, the Trojans suffered from lack of offense to fall in the district semifinal to Kee, 10-0 in six frames Tuesday night in New Albin.

A seven-run second inning by the Hawks was too much for TV as Kee strung the hits together with 10 batters stepping into the batter’s box. The Trojans knocked out just a pair of hits in the contest — singles

by Russell Nieman and Oliver

Finishing NEIC play On the road Monday, the Vikings closed out the regular season with a 11-6 victory over New Hampton (13-11, 4-11

R H E Dec 0 0 3 0 3 3 2 11 10 2 NH 0 4 2 0 0 0 0 6 9 0 Hjelle (WP) – 7IP, 6R, 9H, 4BB, 3K HR – Luzum 1; 2B – Olson 1; 1B – Dylin Thompson 2; Olson 2; Bucksa 1; Tweten 1; Hjelle 1; Kipp 1; RBI – Olson 4; Luzum 2; Thompson 1; Hjelle 1

Warriors keep the bats rolling, advance to district final Baumler 1; Meyer 1; RBI – Timp 3; Streeter 2; Hageman 2; Baumler 1; SB – Streeter 1; Timp 1; Tieskoetter 1; Meyer 1

Kole Hageman puts the ball in play as South Winn Head Coach Alex Smith looks on in background Saturday night.

(Photo by Becky Walz) Firing on all cylinders, the South Winn baseball team (229, 16-2 UIC) continues to roll in the postseason picking up a round one win over Clarksville Saturday and topping Dunkerton Tuesday.

The Warriors will face a familiar opponent in the district final as they will host Kee High for the fourth meeting of the year in the district final Saturday, July 13, in Calmar at 7 p.m.

Semifinal South Winn came out swinging in the district semifinal on Tuesday evening scoring five runs in the bottom of the first to take a commanding lead and they never looked back.

Braiden Todd led off the bottom of the first with a double and that started the momentum as the Warrior batted through the lineup with four hits in the inning. Parker Timp added a two-run home run in the fourth

inning and drove home the winning run in the bottom of the fifth to seal the 10-run rule victory, 11-1.

Carson Streeter was solid on the mound going four strong innings in the start to pick up the win with Braiden Todd throwing in relief. Todd was just a home run away from hitting the cycle as he went 3-for-3 at the plate.

“Scoring early in playoff baseball games is a big deal and our guys really came out with great approaches at the plate.

We were sound in all facets and picking up a win in a shortened game helps with our pitch counts going into Saturday,” said Coach Alex Smith.

R H E Dunk 0 0 0 0 1 x x 1 4 3 SW 5 1 0 2 3 x x 1113 0

Carson Streeter (WP) – 4IP, 1H, 1BB, 4K; Braiden Todd (RP) – 1IP, 1R, 3H, 1K HR – Parker Timp 1; 3B – Todd 1; 2B – Todd 1; Kole Hageman 1; Cody Meyer 1; 1B – Streeter 2; Todd 1; Timp 1; Hageman 1; Brody Tieskoetter 1; Jordan

Trojans bow in in second round; fall to Kee 10-0

A slow night offensively was the demise for the Turkey Valley baseball team Tuesday as the Trojans fell to Kee in the district quarterfinals after defeating Riceville in round one Saturday.

The Trojans end the season 11-16 overall and will graduate five seniors — Oliver Schmitt, Caleb Kurtenbach, Russell Nieman, Aidan Holthaus and Braylen Byrne — who have been mainstays on the diamond this season and throughout their high school careers.

R H E W-SR 1 1 1 1 6 0 0 10 16 0 Dec 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 3 4 7 Hjelle (LP) – 4-1/3IP, 10R, 12H, 3K; Kipp (RP) – 2-2/3IP, 1H, 2BB HR – Luzum 1; 1B – Luzum 1; Hjelle 1; Kipp 1; RBI – Luzum 1; SB – Luzum 1

NEIC).

The Chickasaws struck first, plating four runs in the second frame, leaving Decorah to scratch their way to the front.

Three Viking runs in the third were countered by a pair of New Hampton runs in the bottom of the same inning. Trailing 6-3, Decorah continued to work, pushing three home in the fifth to tie the game. Three more in the sixth and two in the seventh gave the Vikes’ momentum that will hopefully carry into the postseason.

Hjelle struck out four Chickasaw batters on her way to earning the win in the circle, giving up six earned runs on nine hits and four walks.

Seven Vikings pounded the ball for 10 hits including a tworun homer by Luzum. Olson was 3-for-4 with a double and four RBI, while Dylin Thompson had a pair of singles and drove in one run.

ABOVE LEFT: Viking catcher Lauren Luzum puts the tag on the Waverly-Shell Rock player at the plate Friday. ABOVE RIGHT: The lone senior on the Viking softball team was in the pitcher’s circle in relief Friday. (Photos by Becky Walz)

R H E W-SR 1 2 0 3 1 0 0 7 9 0 Dec 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 7 3 L. Kuennen (LP) – 5IP, 7R, 9H, 3BB, 3K; Cash Riehle (RP) – 2IP, 1H, 1K 2B – T. Kuennen 2; 1B – Mason Avila 2; Meyer 1; Bohner 1; Kasen Tyler 1; RBI – Tyler 2 R H E W-SR 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 5 6 2 Dec 0 0 2 0 2 4 x 8 10 6 Riehle (WP) – 1IP, 1K; Alstad (SP) – 2IP, 2R, 1H, 1BB, 4K; Bohner (RP) – 4IP, 2R, 5H, 2BB, 4K 2B – Bohner 1; 1B – Alstad 2; Bohner 2; Gates 2; Hartl 1; Meyer 1; Wemark 1; RBI – Bohner 3; Hartl 2; Meyer 2; Alstad 1; SB – Garrett Waskow 1

Friday recap Back on the diamond Friday, the Vikes’ hosted the league champion Waverly-Shell Rock (21-7, 14-1 NEIC), giving up a big inning to drop the NEIC battle, 10-3.

The Go-Hawks took advantage of a tired Viking team to score a run in the first, second, third and fourth innings then turned the burners on with a six-run fifth frame. Luzum put Decorah on the board with a solo shot over the fence in the fourth with the Vikes adding one in the fifth and one in the sixth.

W-SR out-hit the Vikings 164. Luzum was 2-for-2 with the homerun while Hjelle and Kipp also tagged the ball for singles.

Hjelle took the loss.

Schmitt.

“It’s not the way we wanted to go out, but we had a rough second inning that we just couldn’t recover from,” said Coach Dan Stepan. “Oliver, Caleb, Russell, Aidan and Braylen have been great senior leaders for us and we are going to miss all five of them.”

R H TV 0 0 0 0 0 0 x 0 2 Kee 0 7 0 0 2 1 x 10 10 Logan Busta (LP) – 1-1/3IP, 7R, 5H, 2BB, 1K; Russell Nieman (RP) – 4-1/3IP, 3R, 5H, 2BB, 3K

1B – Nieman 1; Oliver Schmitt 1

Playoff win An inning that fans saw the Trojans bat through the order and then some was enough to lift Turkey Valley over Riceville (14-15) in game one of the postseason Saturday in New Albin, 8-3.

“It’s always good to win in the postseason,” said Coach Stepan. “Pitching and defense have been our strong suit and they were good once again with our offense stepping up as

Opening round The Warriors opened postseason as hosts to Clarksville Saturday evening, defeating the Indians for the second year in a row in the opening round, 9-4.

SW struck early with two runs in the bottom of the first inning and built up a 6-0 lead after four. Streeter dominated on the mound through the first four innings, surrendering just one hit while striking out nine and walking one to pick up the win. Clarksville didn’t go down easy, finding a way to plate four runs in the later innings, but some insurance runs in the bottom of the sixth helped cushion the lead enough to prevent the comeback.

Timp had a big night at the plate going 4-for-4 while Brody Tieskoetter and Nolan Sabelka also had multiple hit performances.

R H E Clark 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 4 3 3 SW 2 0 0 4 0 3 x 9 11 1 Streeter (WP) – 4IP, 1H, 1BB, 9K; Todd (RP) – 2-2/3IP, 4R, 1H, 5BB, 6K; Cody Meyer (RP) – 1/3IP, 1H 2B –Timp 1; 1B – Timp 3; Tieskoetter 2; Nolan Sabelka 2; Todd 1; Streeter 1; Mason Zweibahmer 1; RBI – Todd 2; Timp 2; Streeter 1; SB – Tieskoetter 1; Sabelka 1

Last week Wednesday, the Warriors ran into a battle at Class 1A No. 3 Newman Catholic in Mason City.

Able to strike first in the game scoring in the top of the second inning, South Winn’s Kole Hageman scored on a Jordan Baumler single. The lead didn’t

well.”

The offense took three innings to warm up, but when it did the Trojans were hard to stop. Schmitt and Aidan Holthaus started things off in the fourth after walks led to runs on a Braylen Byrne sac fly and a Jordan Kriener double. Starting the fifth frame at the top of batting order, TV scored six runs on six hits and two walks as the Trojans sent 11 batters to

Season over

Continued from page 10

prove to last long as Newman responded with three runs of their own in the bottom of the inning. The Knights would add two more insurance runs throughout the game to secure the 5-1 win.

Five Warriors had singles in the game Streeter and Todd shared time on the hill with the sophomores combining for seven Ks. R H E SW 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 3 New 0 3 1 0 1 0 x 5 7 1 Streeter (LP) – 2-1/3IP, 4R, 5H, 1BB, 4K; Todd (RP) – 3-2/3IP, 1R, 2H, 1BB, 3K 1B – Streeter 1; Kole Hageman 1; Tieskoetter 1; Eric Greve 1; Jordan Baumler 1; RBI – Baumler 1

Topping the Comets SW traveled to Charles City on Friday evening for their regular season finale and captured its 20th win of the season, 13-1, in six innings.

The Warriors broke the game open in the middle inning scoring 12 runs combined in the fourth, fifth and sixth innings for the run rule victory. Kole Hageman picked up the win on the mound nearly going 5-2/3 innings surrendering just one run.

Tieskoetter and Mason Zweibahmer came up with multi-hit games for the Warriors with Zweibahmer pounding out a pair of doubles and driving in a run.

R H E SW 1 0 0 3 3 6 x 13 9 1 CC 0 0 0 0 1 0 x 1 3 3 Hageman (WP) – 5-2/3IP, 1R, 3H, 5BB, 5K; Meyer (RP) – 1/3IP, 1K 2B – Zweibahmer 2; Sabelka 1; 1B – Todd 2; Tieskoetter 2; Streeter 1; Timp 1; RBI – Todd 1; Streeter 1; Timp 1; Hageman 1; Tieskoetter 1; Sabelka 1; Zweibahmer 1; SB – Todd 1; Streeter 1; Timp 1; Tieskoetter 1; Meyer 1

Turkey Valley’s Caleb Kurtenbach makes a routine catch at short stop Saturday against Riceville. (Photo by Leah Kruse)