September 5, 2024

Fall sports preview inside this edition!

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A new generatio n of Vikings ating will take the field in 2004 and continuin this fall for the g his our young career at Luther red and blue, with people become College. a new head suc- pounced cessful “I am honored on the West Delaware coach calling out to have the said adults after graduation,” Hawks, the plays. the postseason privilege to help the new skipper.

21-7. Making the Having graduated for the second lead the Decshort year in a with 35 total touchdow many key orah trek to Joining Tangen row. However, a contributors from High School Football ns. on the side- rolled Crestwood, the Vikes regular 54-22 last pro- lines as season win over over the Cadets, the Decorah football season, gram and am looking assistants are Water- DHS history 34-6. loo East forward Matt team will build secured the Vikes be composed of upon the rich history to Kuempel, Brian Waskow, On the road against the Indebid many new facDecorah boasts with a 3-2 district and Jared Bucksa, pendence Mustangs success of all coaches a history of es looking to get record.

Jesse Halweg, , Decorah success having on a winning Having spoiled couldn’t control claimed a conletes who have helped and ath- Josh Fenske, Greg streak. the season ference the tempo Drew, and make Alec gave up North Scott was the Zwanziger or district title 30 program what the game 21-7.

While Mike Tangen having in 2022, and Bruce Clark. it has become.

Last year’s postseaso times. the Lancers repaid is the It is the Homecoming was new head coach, n apthe hope favor of one in myself pearances was of the first round he is no the and Reviewing 2023 the highlights of the stranger to the other coaches that of 2024 playoffs, the season as program as he 27th time – 1973, school’s we can knocking off the Decorah won 42-0 Last season started continue to bring served as an assistant ’74, ’78, Vikings, 35-7. ’84, over Mason on a high a level of pas- note ’86, ’87, ’88, for nine sion For City to open the for the Vikes with years, first under ’89, ’90, and dedication to district race. scored the season, the Vikes ’91, ’94, a trio Then Bill Post then not only of wins ’97, ’98, ’03, 250 the help the football with Pat Trewin ’04, program, but spoiled before Independence ly-Shell Vikes spoiled Waver- 25.0 points points, averaging ’05, ’08, ’09, who was at the ’10, ’11, ’12, ’13, all activities at the run Decorah a contest. The varsiRock’s homecom helm for the last Decorah High on. six seasons. He was 35-20. ’15, ’17, ’18, ’21 ing, ty picked The Vikes opened up 2,769 yards of School and most Back-to-b and also played as a ‘23.

Forack losses to at home Marion total mer head coach importantly with Viking, gradua 32-6 victory serve the larger mission Bill Post led and Western Dubuque offense. The running game over feltal- the team into helping low NEIC lied 1,974 with had Decorah fans the playoffs 11 squad Waukon, 795 more comwondering if then the Vikes ing through the would be left out air. The squad Stepping up of averaged 5.34 yards per play, Continued on page B-2

Thursday, September 5, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 36 www.decorahleader.com

tball season

Decorah, Iowa 52101

Two Sections

Suiting up on the 2024 Decorah football varsity Bucksa, Mason roster are Avila, Will Larson; (second row) Hector (front row, l-r) Nick Lowery, Tarwater, Bradan Hunter Quandah Darling; (third row) Vargas Escobar, l, Jameson Giddings; (fourth Ezra Harman-Wood, William Tallier, row) Luke Franzen, Kade O’Hara, Landon LaBelle, Cash Riehle, Jackson (back row) Bristol Anthony Putnam, Tristan Baker, Jared Pavlovec Pipho, Gavin Groux, Quandahl, Caleb Parker (manage , Archer Sims, Henry Brynsaas Johnson, Caleb Gatlin Dahlberg r), Ethan Pole, Nathan Friend, Assistant Coach , Brayden Wemark Krieg, William , Louis Jared Bucksa, Joshua Adam, Josh Fenske, Assistan Hahn, Keaton , Payton Webb, Cain Monreal-Rice, Orris, Kaden Trevor Kuennen t Coach Alec Zwanzig Assistant Coach Matt Kuempe Carter Dlhy, Tanner , Tommy Sexton, l, Assistant Coach er and Jordan Caddell, Ian Noah Milburn, Sims (manage Ryan r). (Photo by Becky Brian Waskow, Head Coach Mike Tangen, Assistan Northup, Mason Vote; Walz) t Coach Jesse Halweg,

email: editor@decorahleader.com

phone: 563-382-4221

Price $1.50

fax: 563-382-5949

Local musician thanks Decorah for propelling her songwriting career

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER

“None of what I’m doing, from hitting the Billboard charts to headlining a blues festival for the first time this past weekend would have happened if it weren’t for the community of support that exists here.”

Decorah musician Jeni Grouws will launch an eight-month artist-in-residency in Omaha, Nebraska later this month, and her last few weeks in the area will be filled to the brim with concerts, solo shows and outdoor appearances.

Coupled with a hectic performance schedule, she’s putting her talents to work at an upcoming outdoor concert Sept. 14 at the Red Barn Campground in Lansing.

Residency The local performer was accepted into an artist-in-residence project with the Omaha nonprofit Playing with Fire.

Grouws said she submitted her proposal based on what she wanted to do as an artist, and if she had the time, space and financial support to do reach her goal.

Playing with Fire’s mission, according to their social media platforms, is “to champion local non-profits and foster connections between people across the globe, all through the magic of free live music concerts”.

“They want musicians to be able to focus on their craft, and they offer a residency at The Music House as a way of allowing this focus to happen,” Grouws said. “My proposal to them focused on being able to take time to write and to enhance my skills as a player, ultimately providing a concert at the end of my residency. With a desire to have a real connection with the Omaha community, I also offered up a songwriting workshop and visits to the area schools to speak about music.”

Grouws said she wants to give back to the community during her residency.

“If I’m going to live within this community for eight months, I wanted to be sure I also gave back,” Grouws said.

“Most exciting to me is the concert at the end of the residency will include Omaha area songwriters.”

The area musician will be taking her experiences from her decades in Decorah with her, including her creation of the “Jeni Grouws and Friends Live at the Winneshiek County Fair” and the “She Writes” songwriting workshop she hosted with Arthaus to help her create some-

(File photo)

Decorah’s Municipal Building — remodel or rebuild?

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken has spent several years working with the Decorah City Council to remedy issues with the city’s municipal building, and their work has gained traction in the past few weeks.

The building was designed by renowned local architect Charles Altfillisch in 1959 and constructed in 1960. Today, Decorah’s Municipal Building houses the police department,

fire department and city business offices. It was initially revered for its contemporary design and unusual roof architecture.

Along the way, according to archives, the building had several upgrades and improvements — temperature control and air conditioning was installed in 1972, an addition was to the fire station’s single bay was constructed in 1983 and

Remodel or rebuild

continued on page A-8

Former Decorah man charged in 2017 cold case pleads not guilty

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR

Jeni Grouws of Decorah embarks on an 8-month artist-in-residency program in Nebraska in the coming weeks. (Photo courtesy Julie Simiele.) thing special in her temporary home.

She said, once she gets to Omaha, she will start researching an ideal location and a date for the finale concert and will keep her Decorah connections updated.

“While The Music House residency doesn’t come with a stipend,” she said, “they help offset the cost of living by providing a place to live. And a truly beautiful one at that. I can’t believe that I get to live there, and I’m truly grateful.”

During her residency, she plans to attend as many open mics and blues jams

A former Decorah man accused of murdering a teenage girl in 2017 has entered a plea of not guilty in the case.

James David Bachmurski is accused of killing 15-yearold Jade Marie Colvin in late March of 2017. The 65-year-old was officially charged with second-degree murder last month, after being extradited from Georgia earlier this summer.

Bachmurski is currently being held at the Winneshiek County Jail on multiple charges.

A criminal complaint filed on Aug. 12 said Colvin was

as she can, in a continuing effort to become acquainted with the music scene.

Grouws credits much of her success to the support she’s received from the Decorah community.

“It’s really crazy to think that all of this is happening at this point in my life and it’s really thanks to Decorah,” she said. “My first open mic was at T-Bock’s

Grouws

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com continued on page A-6

James David Bachmurski reported missing to the Des Moines Police Department on June 10, 2016. The U.S.

Bachmurski

continued on page A- 8

U.S. House candidate Corkery talks abortion, taxes and more at Club 45

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Sarah Corkery (D-Cedar Falls) is running against single-term incumbent U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Marion) for Iowa’s District 2 seat in the U.S. House, and for two hours Saturday morning, the candidate answered the public’s questions at Club 45 — which serves as the Winneshiek County Republican Headquarters — in downtown Decorah.

“I’m very appreciative that Sarah was willing to come here and speak with us today,” said Thomas Hansen, Club 45’s

Iowa District 2 Congressional candidate Sarah Corkery spoke to both Republicans and Democrats Saturday morning at Club 45 in downtown Decorah. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

ry sa r e v i n h n t A 50

manager, who invited Corkery to speak and introduced her to the audience of about 75 people. “It will just help us be a better society in the long run.”

Corkery said she’s running against Hinson because of three key setbacks she and her family has experienced, including the fact that she’s survived breast cancer, gave birth to a blind child, and her sister died at age 48 due to an immune disorder.

“I’m going to try to make this world a better place just in case we’re living on a day borrowed,’” Corkery said.

“And, for me, that means running for office, putting policies

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in place that make this world better for the next folks, to be sure we save some money and don’t spend it into the ground to make sure our next generations have it a little bit better off than we have it. I say ‘Smart people plant trees they know they won’t sit under.’ So, we need to do that for our environment, for our economy — for the good of the next generation. That is not a fun story. We’ve had a lot of setbacks in our lives, and we don’t use them as excuses to put our head in the sand — we use them as reasons to get up the next day and try a little harder — to make sure it’s a little bet-

ter for the next guy.”

Corkery, a mother of three school-aged children, said her religion is kindness.

“If we can help someone, we do,” she said. “If we can stand up for someone, we do. I believe, philosophically, Democrats put safety nets in place, because we believe a bad day might happen. There might be a day when you get cancer, or you go bankrupt, or you lose your job or whatever, and we need some safety nets in place. My

Corkery continued on page A-6

with musical guest Switchback

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A-2 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

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There was an orange invasion at this year’s Castalia Tractor Day Revival. Randy Hemesath of Ossian showed several Allis-Chalmers tractors at the tractor show, which grew significantly from last year. In 2023, the tractor show included only a few tractors, while this year, about one dozen tractors were shown.

Youngsters scooped sand and molded castle mounds on a makeshift beach during this year’s Grand Community Picnic at WinnMed in Decorah. (Photos by Seth Boyes) Musician Mike McAbee performed a number of familiar tunes during WinnMed’s Grand Community Picnic this year — McAbee was able to pull off a convincing vocal impression of a trumpet during his rendition of Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire.”

WinnMed hosts 10th annual Grand Community Picnic

Construction lifts became part of the festive backdrop last week outside WinnMed during the hospital’s 10th annual Grand Community Picnic.

Community members turned out to enjoy a free meal, live music, children’s entertainment and other activities the afternoon of Aug. 29. Hundreds were able to enjoy the community celebration before looming storm clouds prompted organizers to end this year’s event half an hour early. A light rain had fallen across the area that morning, and information from the National Weather Service said almost 0.75 inches fell on parts of Decorah before midnight.

Castalia held its second annual Tractor Day Revival celebration Saturday, greatly increasing its size from last year’s event. Several hundred people from all over northeast Iowa attended and participated in the festivities, which included a truck and tractor show, UTV/golf cart parade, bag-throw competition, live music, comedian, children’s attractions and a fireworks display that rivaled many small towns’ July 4 fireworks shows.

RIGHT- Adele Koenig, 8, and Eddie Schnuelle, 1, smile for the camera at the town’s city park. (Photos by Zach Jensen)

Decorah Police Captain Mandy Groth said hello to several youngsters last week as they got an up close look at local emergency vehicles during WinnMed’s Grand Community Picnic.

ABOVE- Castalia Tractor Day Revival Parade Queen Lois Schnuelle, pictured here with her daughter in the event’s golf cart/UTV parade, moved to the tiny town from south of Postville in 1969. She has three children, 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren — all of whom visited her in Castalia for the special event. RIGHT- Solo cover musician Shawnster returned to Castalia for the town’s annual Tractor Day Revival.

Driftless Jazz performs at final 2024 Lawn Chair Night The Driftless Jazz Ensemble performed during the Aug. 29 Lawn Chair Night in downtown Decorah — attracting several dozen fans to the annual series’ final show of the summer.

The Driftless Jazz Ensemble is a collection of Luther College students and alumni, sharing their passion for making and performing music. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

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Kevin and Judy Lansing inducted into Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame Kevin and Judy Lansing of Winneshiek County were inducted into the 2024 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the 4-H Exhibits Building at the Iowa State Fair on Sunday, Aug. 18.

A total of 93 Iowa counties participated this year and selected 125 inductees for their outstanding service and dedication to 4-H. Inductees or their surviving family members were presented a certificate by the Iowa 4H Foundation President

Jeff Murphy and State 4-H Program Leader Mitchell Hoyer as they were introduced on stage.

The Lansings are both lifetime supporters of the 4-H program and have been monumental in the sheep and goat project areas in Winneshiek County and across the state of Iowa.

“We are honored to recognize these special individuals, for their advocacy and dedication to the Iowa 4-H program,” said Iowa 4-H Foundation Executive Director Emily Saveraid.

The Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame was initiated in 2002 to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of 4-H. A summary of previous honorees was on display at the 2022 Iowa State Fair in the 4-H Exhibits Building.

These summaries are also available at the Iowa 4-H Foundation office in the Extension 4-H Youth Building at Iowa State University. Information about previous inductees to the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame is available at iowa4hfoundation.org.

NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

A-3

Kingsbury murder trial start date, change of venue location announced

Luna Valley Farm owners Tom and Maren Beard are long-term Oneota Co-op members and local producers. (Photo courtesy Charlie Langton)

Adam Fravel

Oneota Co-op plans 50th Anniversary Fall Frolic at Luna Valley Farm

Oneota Community Food Co-op will host a 50th Anniversary Fall Frolic event at Luna Valley Farm Saturday, Sept. 28. All are welcome to attend. The deadline for the required pre-regisFive locations have been home to Oneota tration is Monday, Sept. 23.

Co-op since 1974. The organization has been Pizza service will begin at 5 p.m. and conclude located at 312 W. Water St. (pictured) since at 7 p.m. at Luna Valley. The musical guest for the 2008. (Submitted) evening will be Switchback. The duo consists of Brian FitzGerald of Lansing and Martin McCormack of Woodstock, Illinois. FitzGerald and McCormack have been performing their musical stylings — often termed “American roots, Celtic soul” — for more than 30 years. They will perform from 7-9 p.m. during the Fall Frolic. Joining the duo on percussion will be Nick Hirka of Decorah.

Event registration is available online at https:// oneotacoop.com/ or in-store from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Oneota Co-op began as a small buying club in 1974. Today’s membership numbers 5,495.

Membership in the cooperative is not required to shop at the co-op. The organization’s annual report indicates 26 percent of 2023 sales repSwitchback’s Martin McCormack, left, and resented local farms and businesses within 100 Brian FitzGerald. (Submitted) miles of Decorah.

Luther College partners with Pulpit Rock to create official craft beer

Alma Mater beer by Pulpit Rock Brewing Company is set to become the official craft brew of Luther College. The artwork for the cans was created by the brewery’s marketing manager Hannah Tulgren, Luther College class of 2018. (Submitted) signer, and we’re grateful for their support.”

The agreement licenses the Luther College logo for use in promotion of the designated Pulpit Rock brands associated with the college, and Pulpit Rock products will be available for sale at official college-hosted events.

“We’re delighted to bring Alma Mater beer into the rotation of our core brands, creating frequent opportunities for alumni to support the college while enjoying a quality craft beverage made right here in

Alma Mater beer continued on page A-7

✓OTE Dan

The trial of Adam Fravel, accused of murdering his estranged partner Madeline Kingsbury nearly 18 months ago, is scheduled to start Oct. 7.

A change of venue was awarded earlier this summer, and the trial will be moved 127 miles west from Minnesota’s Winona County to the city of Mankato in Blue Earth County.

Kingsbury, age 26, resided in Winona with Fravel and their two young children, and she disappeared March 31, 2023, after dropping the children off at day care. According to court records, Fravel was questioned several times and denied any involvement in her disappearance. For several months, numerous search parties searched Winona and Fillmore counties for the missing mother.

On June 7, more than two months after her disappearance, a Fillmore County deputy discovered Kingsbury’s body in a culvert near Mabel along Highway 43. The culvert where her body was found was 4 miles away from the Fravel family farm, according to court records, and although the land was public, it had previously been maintained routinely by members of the Fravel family.

Fravel was arrested the next day and charged with two counts of second-degree murder.

Prosecutors later presented evidence of a history of both physical and verbal abuse as well as threats made by Fravel towards Kingsbury. In October of 2023, a grand jury returned an indictment of first-degree murder with premeditation, based on this past pattern of

PRE-OWNED

Luther College and Pulpit Rock Brewing Company have entered into a collaboration for the first official craft beer of the college.

Proceeds from designated craft beers, such as Alma Mater, will benefit Luther College as Pulpit Rock becomes the college’s official craft beer.

“We are excited about this partnership with Luther College,” said Pulpit Rock co-founder and majority owner Pete Espinosa, himself a 1981 Luther graduate. “Since our founding we have been focused on giving back to the community. As an alum, I am pleased we can do an initiative like this with Luther.”

Luther College President Jenifer K. Ward also expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration.

“This is a great partnership, and, even more than the support it will provide for Luther, it demonstrates our shared commitment to the community of Decorah,” Ward said. “We know that many Luther alumni are part of the Pulpit Rock group, from ownership to their employees to their graphic de-

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER

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ty, with a large portion of the 100 residents surveyed feeling Fravel was guilty of Kingsbury’s death.

The court ruled in favor of granting a change of venue.

The new location for the trial was made public Aug. 21, with presiding Judge Nancy Buytendorp declaring the order.

“The court finds Blue Earth County is best positioned to ensure the impartiality required for a fair trial and is well suited to accommodate this Winona County case,” the judge said.

The trial is currently scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m.

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Holly Stanschror, one of Madeline Kingsbury’s sorority sisters at Winona State University, held signs calling for justice following Kingsbury’s death. The signs also listed the domestic violence hotline’s phone number. According to police records, there were several domestic incidents between Kingsbury and Adam Fravel prior to her death.(Photo by Denise Lana)

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OPINION

A-4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

The column every editor has to write from time to time It’s hard to complain about a local opinion page that’s packed full of letters to the editor.

That’s a good thing. It means

BY SETH people are paying attention. It BOYES means people care.

News Editor And they should. Just by skimming the letters printed on this page, anyone can see folks have some strong opinions about the upcoming local elections. Again, that’s great, you to know dear reader is that because all too often in this age we’re trying to give everyone a of flash and political pizzaz, fair shake.

And to that end, you ought the elections closest to a community receive the least atten- to know about rule number two come election season. tion from voters.

At a certain — and admitAnd so, as the volume of said tedly arbitrary — point before letters seems to be growing greater, I think it may be time Election Day, you’ll find the for me as editor to undertake an Decorah Leader’s opinion page all too familiar task — laying void of all politically-focused out our policies for letters to opinions. No letter nor legislathe editor during election sea- tor will appear on that edition’s page. son.

Again, the goal is fairness.

The guidelines are fairly simple. The Decorah Leader Cutting off the discussion a chooses not to publish letters ways ahead of the polls makes which specifically endorse or sure no one has the proverbioppose a specific candidate — al last word (I say proverbial that sort of thing should in all because someone has the last honesty be a paid advertise- word no matter what you do, ment. Go ahead and tell us your of course). And yes, there’s feelings on a candidate. Tell us not much to stop one side from about the issues you think are rushing the gate and trying to important. Tell us what you get in as much as they can bethink of previous votes and fore the cutoff, but one has to draw the line somewhere — their outcomes. but then again, I’m not saying That’s all good.

But if your purpose is to use where that line is just yet… a portion of good ol’ page four mostly because I haven’t deas a mobile yard sign for can- cided.

And that’s pretty much it. didate X, we’ll have to decline, but we’ll be glad to get you Simple as promised.

Some may take issue with some pricing on an ad that can such a policy, and that’s ok. help accomplish that goal.

Other outlets may have Now, to be entirely honest with you dear reader, that’s not broader criteria for such things, always an easy task. One of my and that’s ok too.

But there’s purpose behind mentors in the news industry compared it to enforcing speed this policy. The opinion page limits — we try our best to be is meant to foster discussion fair, realizing that everyone among readers, not create goes a few mph over the limit space for the listing of resumes from time to time, and we re- and the touting of characalize it doesn’t necessarily feel ter traits. The opinion page is fair when you’re the one who about there so the community can hear from you, dear readgets told to slow down.

Trust me, folks in my posi- er. And hopefully by doing so tion would love if this sort of on this thin piece of newsprint, things was quantitative rath- we as a community will better er than qualitative, but this is understand those with differthe reality and we’re honestly ing viewpoints — something trying to do our best to be fair. many of us say there needs to I’ve had a few letters cross my be more of in modern politics. desk which weren’t quite inAgree with Seth? Think he’s side the lines, but that doesn’t mean they’re outright rejected got it completely backwards or — rather, we encourage the he’s missed the point entirely? author to rework their letter a Let your voice be heard. Letters bit, stop shy of endorsing any- to the editor may be emailed to one and resubmit their letter for editor@decorahleader.com or dropped off at 110 Washington consideration.

Some do. Some don’t. And St. Suite 4 in Decorah. that’s fine too. The thing I want

Decorah Leader

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

Phone: 563-382-4221

Certification may improve culture, climate of county board of supervisors I would like to voice my concern about the current dysfunction and “cultural climate” of the supervisors on the Winneshiek County Board. By definition, “culture sets the long-term values and beliefs that shape how things are done, whereas climate reflects the current state and experience of the work environment based on those cultural norms” (Academy to Innovate Human Resources). As Catherine Scott, AIHR manager of editorial content & strategy states, “For culture and climate to function well, in unison, they must be aligned.”

I am going to be bold and suggest that one way the board could function in better unison is to require all members obtain certification as a Certified Iowa County Supervisor. The good news is that the board is halfway there — currently, three board members are certified. I’d like to commend Supervisors Mark Faldet (D2), Steve Kelsay (D5) for obtaining certification, and Shirley Vermace (D3) for becoming re-certified.

These three members are becoming better public servants by taking advantage of profes-

sional development and personal growth opportunities.

Such training will create better collaboration with others, while fostering a supportive work environment.

The increasing demands placed upon our county supervisors are complex, ever-changing and dynamic.

Now, more than ever, in order to successfully meet the needs of constituents, I believe it’s imperative that all supervisors are well-trained and up-to-date in the latest research and best practices involved in Winneshiek County matters. Perhaps Jason Vande Hoef, President Iowa State Association of County Supervisors, says it best: “Certified Iowa County Supervisors are educational leaders.”

Respectfully Submitted, Ellen Drewes-Stoen Decorah

Squeaky wheels and loud voices aren’t always worth listening to Dear Editor, With election season ramping up, recently there have been letters and articles which have criticized and cast doubt on the work and leadership Dan Langreck has put forth as Winneshiek County Supervisor and chair of the board.

As a native of Winneshiek County, Dan is a successful and very hard-working independent business man. He has also dedicated a tremendous amount of time in service to the county as a whole in his role as supervisor, visiting all areas of his district and hearing from citizens.

He has also dedicated many years to serving the community of Ossian as a member of its city council. Dan spends a great deal of time researching and educating himself on the nuances of laws and policies, being particularly attentive to the county’s fiscal responsibility to its taxpayers.

Just one example of Dan’s work resulted in a savings of around $40,000 per year to the county in insurance coverage expenses alone. When others question his “reluctance to compromise with county employees on budget and salary issues,” it is important to keep in mind the financial boundaries the county must maintain to stay solvent, since one of the largest shares of the county budget goes to cover payroll and benefits. Many groups have a special interest when requesting county money, but the funds have to be available and allocated within the budget to do so. Dan is very attentive to this and is determined to keep a tight rein on the spending of our taxpayer dollars. Others may express different views or may simply prefer to raise taxes to spend more, but as a taxpayer,

we feel we pay enough already and the county must live within its means. If that means making hard decisions such as turning down funding requests, downsizing or delaying some programs or improvements until funds are available, it’s no different than what we must do in our own households to stay solvent and out of debt. Inflation is up and money is tight. That’s a fact and all the more reason to keep spending under control in our opinion, but some seem to prefer to foster a sense of distrust and polarization by suggesting that partisanship plays a role in the difficult balancing act of county economics.

As chair, it is Dan’s responsibility to maintain order at each supervisors meeting. This means sometimes disappointing people who want to express themselves on the record but are not on the agenda or who wish to speak over their allotted time. There can be contentious moments, and there are times when it is the visitors themselves who have raised their voices when being asked to stand down.

Dan has dedicated himself to serving our county on the board of supervisors with a spirit of collaboration, integrity, knowledge, objectivity and transparency. He works hard to collaborate with county officials, citizens and the board as a whole to conscientiously and responsibly serve the taxpayers of this county.

They say the squeaky wheel gets the grease, but in this recent “opinion page campaign” maybe the loudest voices aren’t the ones you should listen to.

Roger and Denise Uhlenhake Rural Ossian

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To the editor: “The Revenue Purpose Statement (RPS) would give the district permission to use penny sales tax (SAVE) funds for infrastructure and technology needs through 2051. State law mandates that all SAVE money must be used for local property tax relief or school infrastructure needs. If a district wants to utilize its SAVE funds on infrastructure projects by spending that money or bonding against it, officials must ask voters to approve an RPS allowing them

to forgo property tax relief.”

— Decorah Public Opinion, Thursday, May 23, 2024 How much has the school district received in RPS/SAVE funds (2019-2024)?

The school board (past, current and future) needs to advocate for the children and staff while being caretakers of taxpayer money. It all comes down to the board’s being reasonable.

Laurie Worcester Decorah

Reader says ‘it takes a village’ to maintain excellent education Dear Editor, Thank you to Seth Boyes, new editor of the Decorah Leader, for returning the opinion page and including letters to the editor. It is wonderful to have an opportunity for honest, civilized discourse in our local newspaper again.

I encourage residents of the Decorah school district to vote yes in the special school election on Sept. 10. Early absentee voting has already begun at the courthouse. This vote will help secure necessary funding for a new elementary school.

Decorah has a proud tradition of maintaining high standards and excellence in education. The staff, faculty and programming are well respected in our community and throughout the state. Beyond good teachers and programs, we need to invest in buildings that are most conducive to learning. About 30 years ago, voters approved a bond referendum to improve our high school. We were able to add a state of the art auditorium that students and local residents continue to enjoy. Later, in 2012, further renovations and additions occurred at the high school, making Decorah High School the pride of our community while creating spaces instrumental in providing excellent opportunities for students. The renovation of state of the art classrooms — including a

commercial kitchen and welding, construction and small gas engine facilities — provides students spaces instrumental in offering excellent educational opportunities. The renovation of the cafeteria spaces and the addition of a new gymnasium and weight room are also beneficial to students.

Students throughout the district deserve the physical space best suited for learning, and now it’s time to focus on our early elementary students. A new, energy efficient and climate controlled building that will best serve the needs of our youngest learners will benefit students well into the future. “It takes a village” to maintain excellence in education, and Decorah has a well-deserved reputation for providing the best possible learning environments for our children. Our youngest deserve better, and now is our chance to provide them — and their teachers — the school they deserve.

There will be another vote during the general election on Nov. 5 to approve the bond proposal for construction of a new elementary school building.

For now we need to vote yes to begin to secure the necessary funding to move ahead with a vision for the future.

Let’s continue to build better schools for tomorrow!

For more information, visit https://www.decorahcsdfuture.org/ Sincerely, Margaret Betteridge Retired Decorah High School teacher Decorah

Other reader says ‘it takes a village’ to return a car key

Dear Editor, On Aug. 28, I think it was, I went for an early morning walk for about an hour. Some while after I got home, I went to grab my car key from my little purse, and realized that I had left unzipped the pocket where the key had been, and that it must have fallen out somewhere along my route. So, even though by now a couple of hours had passed, I slowly retraced my steps, asking the occasional walkers I came across if they had seen it. Nope.

But then I arrived at Phelps Park, and now I must express my gratitude.

Thank you to the two people who found my car key by the stone wall in Phelps Park, and who handed the key over to the parks and rec guy who happened to be in the park at the time.

Thank you to the man who later noticed me diligently scanning the ground, hunting for my key, and who called out, “Hey, are you looking for a car key?” and who then proceeded to tell me what had happened earli-

er with the two people and the parks and rec guy.

And thank you to the parks and rec guy, who was still at the picnic shelter and still had my key.

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but apparently it also takes a small quorum to get my key back to me!

I’d like to attribute my good fortune to St. Anthony, whose medal is on my keychain — he is, after all, the patron saint of finding missing objects — but I think it’s more likely just Decorah; a nice town where people go out of their way to help, whether they live here or not.

Or it could have been St. Anthony working through four different people. Who knows? I’ll just send out grateful vibes to those four people in particular, to Decorah in general and to the universe at large.

And to St. Anthony, just to cover all my bases.

Sincerely, Sharon DelVento Decorah

The mark of successful government is cooperation The County Board of Supervisor meetings are valued opportunities for citizens to learn about the responsibilities of local government, as witnessed by the constituents attending in person and online. I attend often and learn from everyone: supervisors, special community representatives and the general public. Decisions taken by the BOS may affect us all which is why these meetings are intended to be an open forum for discussion of county staff information, expertise and concerns from the public. At best the BOS can and should function as a peace-keeping body. To wit: when public concerns are listened to and heeded, and when rationales for decisions are transparent, the public is more willing to cooperate.

To me, the mark of successful government is cooperation with amity, where decisions reached

have taken into consideration, clearly, the welfare of the entire community. Our community is best served by a BOS with a balance of skills and experience.

Our current board is very good at keeping our roads and bridges in repair — and thank you for that! However, they need help in creating a congenial, welcoming atmosphere, more respectful of public inputs. A supervisor with a successful career of working with diverse populations, being a mother and running her own business would bring a complementary perspective and ambience. We are fortunate to have such an independent candidate in District 4. I look forward to the improvements she could bring to our BOS. Julie Fischer Decorah

OBITUARIES/NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Trio of contested county races expected this cycle

Lloyd Yocum

April 15, 1939 - August 30, 2024 Lloyd Stephen Yocum, 85, of Mabel, Minnesota died Friday, Aug. 30, at his home surrounded by family.

Lloyd was born April 15, 1939 in Tama County to Herman and Petronilla “Lena” ( N i r s c h l ) Lloyd Yocum Yocum. He graduated from the Zearing High School. On Oct. 21, 1960, he married Jeanette Roy at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marshalltown. They lived in St. Anthony, Iowa area where he worked as a carpenter with his brother, Chuck. In 1970, they started farming when they moved to rural Mabel. Along with farming, Lloyd bought furs, traded machinery, shelled corn, broke horses, and in 1997 started L&P Sheep with his son, Phil, whom he worked side by side with for over 20 years. For 30 years, Lloyd and Jeanette were foster parents for several children. He was a member of the St. Olaf Catholic Church in Mabel and the Knights of Columbus, and he was active with 4-H and the Fillmore County Fair Board. He enjoyed fishing trips to Canada with family, waterskiing, going to the sales barns, watching his grandsons do mutton bustin’ and giving them rides in his John Deere gator, and he especially loved his grandchildren and watching

them grow up.

Lloyd is survived by his children Joan (Craig) Rasmussen of Mabel and their children Jessie (Drew) Mulford, Heather (Evan) Recio and Kayla (Andy) Otterness, Phillip (Katie) Yocum of Mabel and their children Connor, Beau and Declan, Sue Anne and her daughter Lena, Davey Peterson of Mabel, Darrell “Pete” Peterson of Mabel and his daughter Natsha, and Shirley Scrabeck of Rushford, Minnesota; other grandchildren: Jenny Crail, Jordyn Lee, Dylan Yocum, Emma Joe Yocum and Kyra Anderson; 23 great-grandchildren; brother and sisters-in-law Connie Adair, Claudia (Tim) Powers, Judy (Bill) Roads, Steve Roy (Elaine Johnson) and Jan Yocum.

Lloyd was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette; sons James, John and Joe; daughter, Mary; grandson, Jacob Crail; brothers Bill, Chuck and David; sisters and brother-in-law Sandy Messer, Jim Adair, Hazel Yocum and Phyllis Yocum.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 at St. Olaf Catholic Church in Mabel. Burial will be in the Mabel Public Cemetery in Mabel.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13 at St. Olaf Catholic Church and from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the services at the church.

The Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel is assisting with arrangements.

Winneshiek County Cattlemen announce Beef Opportunity Program

The Winneshiek County Cattlemen Association recently announced its Beef Opportunity Program — the purpose of which is to aid and inspire young individuals in enhancing their interest and involvement in the beef industry. Program participants learn the responsibility of raising a heifer, making breeding arrangements and maintaining complete records.

The WCCA is awarding $1,000 grants to students in sixth through 10th grade to be put toward the purchase of a beef-breeding female. The heifer purchased must be a registered breed female and meet the requirements of the cattlemen.

The money will be reimbursed after the bill of sale is presented to the WCCA. When the recipient returns to the Winneshiek County Fair with a cow/ calf pair the following year, the recipient will be awarded an additional $500.

To be eligible for the program, participants:

A-5

• Must be in grades six through 10 • Must meet the requirements of the Winneshiek County Fair 4-H and FFA member eligibility • Previous winners of the grant are ineligible to apply.

To be eligible for grants, participants must: • Purchase a breeding female that is already registered as a breed • Show heifer at the Winneshiek County Fair • Show heifer at the Northland Classic Show • Maintain complete records on heifer • Write reports to the Winneshiek County Cattlemen • Return to the Winneshiek County Fair as a cow/calf pair • Must become a member of the breed association with which the heifer is registered.

For applications, contact the Winneshiek County Cattlemen Association at winn.co.cattlemen@gmail.com.

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR More than 30 county-level offices will be on the ballot this November for area voters, but only three of those races will see any competition at the ballot box.

A pair of seats on the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors are up for grabs this cycle. Democratic incumbent Supervisor Shirley Vermace filed papers to maintain the District 3 seat on the board, and she’ll face off against Republican challenger Dan Hovden on Election Day. Republican incumbent Supervisor Dan Langreck — the board’s current chair — also filed for reelection in the race for the District 4 seat. He is up against a bid from independent candidate Cheryl Wieseler.

Vermace, Hovden and Langreck each ran unopposed in their respective primary races in June — Vermace received 71 votes of support, Hovden tallied 39 votes and Langreck garnered 41 votes, according to information from the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office.

Local voters will also be tasked with narrowing a field of four candidates for county hospital trustee to just three individuals. Candidates Karen P. McLean, Clark Goltz, Christopher Miculinich and Jan Heikes have all filed candidacy papers.

Heikes, Goltz and McLean all currently serve as hospital trustees, and Miculinich currently serves as the city councilman for Decorah’s Ward 2 — his term on the city council is set to expire in December of 2027.

Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines and Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx — both Republicans — are up for reelection. Neither faced an opponent during the June primaries, with each earning more than 200 votes of support, and no opposing parties filed candidate papers as of last week’s deadline.

Down the ballot Dozens of other local races will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot, but voters won’t have much deliberating to do — only a single candidate is listed in each of the 25 township trustee races. Other races, such as those for county agricultural extension council as well as soil and water conservation district commissioners, attracted as many candidates as there were open seats.

The other positions that will appear on the General Election ballot are: Bloomfield Township Trustee (vote for one) Christopher Hackman Bluffton Township Trustee (vote for one)

Stephanie Fromm Burr Oak Township Trustee (vote for one) Dawn Marlow Calmar Township Trustee (vote for one) Rodney Lensing Canoe Township (vote for one) Daryl Bosma

Trustee

Decorah Township Trustee — splits 3.2 and 9.1 (vote for one) Kevin Barth

(File photo)

Frankville Township Trustee (vote for one) Jeff Feickert

Candidates added to Iowa ballots, state-certified list on hold

Frankville Township Trustee — TFV (vote for one) Loren Broszeit

Though the filing period to appear on Iowa ballots has passed, officials at the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office added names to the November election’s official candidate list. One particular addition will affect voters in Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District.

Independent candidate Jody Madlom Puffet of Delhi was added to the list late last week. An Aug. 28 statement posted to social media by the Puffet campaign said Puffet’s name had been certified to the appropriate county commissioners for inclusion on the Nov. 5 ballot. Information from the Iowa Secretary of State listed Puffet’s filing date as Friday, Aug. 23 — the day before Iowa’s filing deadline for state and federal candidates.

The addition of Puffet’s name brings the total number of candidates seeking the District 2 seat in the U.S. House to three.

She’ll be competing at the ballot box with incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson of Marion and Democratic candidate Sarah Corkery of Cedar Falls.

Officials at the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office also added another candidate to the top of the Nov. 5 ballot. Information from the Iowa Secretary of State’s office listed independent presidential candidate Shiva Ayyadurai and running mate Crystal Ellis as having filed to appear on Iowa ballots as of Saturday, Aug. 24 — the very last day state officials accepted candidate papers.

The no-party candidate and her prospective vice president will be squaring up as part of a seven-way race in the Hawkeye state.

They will face presidential bids from not only former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris but Libertarian candidate Chase Oliver, Claudia De la Cruz of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, William Stodden of Socialist Party USA and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of We The People — Kennedy announced his intentions to drop out of the race late last month and endorsed Trump, but his name is still expected to appear on ballots in multiple states.

Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines said his office — and his counterparts across the state — expected to have state-certified candidate lists as of this week, but legal action in Iowa’s 1st and 3rd Congressional Districts has held up the process. Iowa’s State Objection Panel voted 2-1 last month to uphold challenges to three Libertarian candidates appearing on Iowa ballots amid procedural questions regarding the party’s convention. The panel decided to remove congressional candidates Charles Aldrich, who is challenging incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra for the District 4 seat, Nicholas Gluba, who is seeking the District 1 seat, and Marco Battaglia, who is running for Iowa’s District 3 seat in the U.S. House. State Auditor Rob Sand Sand was the lone dissenting vote on the three-seat panel, with Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate and Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird voting in favor of removing the Libertarian candidates from ballots in Iowa.

The Libertarian Party of Iowa released a statement Friday, saying appeals had been filed on behalf of Aldrich and Gluba, but did not mention Battaglia.

Fremont Township Trustee (vote for one) Leland Hovey Glenwood Township Trustee (vote for one) Allan J. Dahlen Hesper Township (vote for one) Mike Paulson

Trustee

Hesper Township Trustee— TFV (vote for one) Ethan Wise Highland Township Trustee (vote for one) Arden Auna Highland Township Clerk— TFV (vote for one) Sawyer Wise Jackson Township Trustee (vote for one) Ross Kurash Lincoln Township Trustee (vote for one) Rodney Ollendieck Lincoln Township Trustee— TFV (vote for one) Ted Frana Madison Township Trustee (vote for one) Roger Bergan Military Township Trustee (vote for one) Thomas J. Bushman Orleans Township Trustee (vote for one) Ron Stika Orleans Township Trustee— TFV (vote for one) Jason Ryan Pleasant Township Trustee (vote for one) Roger A. Nelson Springfield Township Trustee (vote for one) Bruce Sersland Sumner Township Trustee (vote for one) Paul Andera Washington Township Trustee (vote for one) James Neuzil Soil & Water Conservation District Commissioner (vote for three) Jon H. Lubke Donna Rasmussen Keith Newhouse County Agricultural Exten-

sion Council (vote for five) Lori L. Shatek Blake Courtney Janice Kuboushek Judy Mowry Cassidy Ferguson Correction: Aug. 29, 2024, Decorah Leader An article entitled “Filing deadlines closed for state, federal elections,” which appeared

in the Aug. 29, 2024, Decorah Leader mistakenly omitted presidential candidate Claudia De la Cruz and running mate Karina Garcia of the Party for Socialism and Liberation from the list of candidates in that race. Staff inadvertently overlooked the campaign while compiling the list printed in last week’s article and regrets the error.

Supervisors: Letter of recommendation for proposed biodigester not needed

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER No further action on the proposed biodigester facility near Ridgeway is needed from the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors.

Full Bohr Dairy, located at 3251 275th St., submitted a rezoning request to accommodate the biodigester to the county in April. In May, the Winneshiek County Planning and Zoning Commission voted against recommending the project’s rezoning request to the board of supervisors. The board of supervisors then voted 3-2 on Aug. 8 to approve the rezoning request, and they have until Sept. 6 to submit their recommendation to the DNR. Supervisor Chair Dan Langreck announced to the board, during its regular meeting Tuesday morning, that the supervisors had received information from ProAg, the company handling the DNR paperwork on behalf of Full Bohr Dairy, indicating that a new scoring matrix

Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines shares information about the proposed biodigester during Tuesday’s board of supervisors meeting. (Photo by Zach Jensen) for Full Bohr Dairy isn’t needed.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources uses what’s known as the Master Matrix to evaluate construction permit applications for confinement feeding operations, according to information from the DNR. The matrix consists of 44 criteria which describe the proposed site for the facility. Applicants can choose which criteria to apply to

and receive points for each one.

During the supervisors’ Aug. 29 meeting, County Environmentalist Doug Groux said a passing matrix is 440 points, and Full Bohr Dairy’s matrix score was 455 points — meaning that the dairy exceeds the DNR’s requirements.

County Auditor Ben Steines said Tuesday that Full Bohr placed the correct numbers for

the proposed operation in the wrong blanks on its initial application form, which he said triggered the need for a recommendation from Winneshiek County. Steines said Full Bohr Dairy withdrew its application due to that error, “and when they corrected the error, they no longer needed a Master Matrix evaluation” — although he noted the dairy may still need a permit from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for construction of the facility.

In light of the corrected application, the county no longer needs to submit its recommendation on the biodigester’s construction to the DNR. However, Steines said all the letters of concern from the public about the biodigester will still be submitted to the DNR for its consideration during the construction permit process.

Bohr, Storlie, Novilla RNG, LLC and Walnut Creek RNG, LLC — the farms proposing the biogester — have filed for a conditional use permit for a biogas processing facility. A

hearing on that request was listed on the Sept. 3 agenda for the Winneshiek County Board of Adjustment.

In other business: • The supervisors unanimously approved a Housing Trust Fund letter in which the county pledges to pay into the HTF $10,000 this year and $12,500 each of the following two years.

• Discussion on the county’s settlement with landowner Jeffrey Peel was tabled until the Sept. 9 board of supervisors meeting, at which time the supervisors will consult County Attorney Andy Van Der Maaten on how the county’s settlement may be changed to include a different locking mechanism on a gate.

• The Winneshiek County Historic Preservation Commission’s lease for space in the Smith Building was unanimously approved.

• The supervisors approved tax abatements for properties in Calmar and Decorah.

• Winneshiek County Engi-

neer Michael Kueny reported he has purchased a Chevy Blazer for county service. County vehicle 667 is being repaired and will be used by county workers, and the extra vehicle will be sold.

• The Frankville Road culvert work should be completed this week.

• The W14 ditch project has been completed.

• Denco Highway Construction of Mingo will be in the county next week to supplement the county’s pavement workers on a stretch of County Road W46.

• A tour of the county’s projects will be held during the next board of supervisors meeting.

The tour will leave from the courthouse annex and visit each project currently on the county engineer’s report. The tour is part of the public meeting, and the public is welcome to attend.

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

NEWS

A-6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

County tables changes to proposed settlement in rip rap removal case

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR County officials may be nearing a legal settlement with a rural resident who installed erosion control measures in a public right of way. The settlement was on the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors’ Tuesday agenda, but the board took no action, after reconsidering the details of the proposed agreement. The board indicated the issue would be taken up again during its next meeting.

“This has been ongoing for quite a while, so one more week, I don’t believe it’s going to throw a wrench in anything,” Supervisor Chair Dan Langreck said.

Landowner Jeffrey Peel filed a petition against the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors in mid-December of 2023, alleging the board acted illegally by instructing him late last year to remove the materials, which he had placed in the county right of way near his home along 360th Street.

A draft of the proposed agreement shows Peel would be asked to remove a portion of the measures he put in place, dismiss the case against the county and pay court costs.

A question of access Peel alleged in his December petition that the previous condition of 360th Street in northern Winneshiek County “made it nearly impossible for

regular traffic, including delivery vehicles, to enter his private drive and residence” prior to the summer of 2023. The landowner’s own filing states he placed riprap — large stones typically placed to curtail erosion — as well as other materials along a portion of the rural road without seeking the proper permits to do so. Peel argued the unpermitted installation of erosion control measures was “necessary for the day to day use that is required for a residence.”

The issue came to the county’s attention when adjacent property owner Mary Fitch submitted a complaint to the county that summer, saying the erosion control limited her tenant farmer’s access to nearby farmland. Peel’s petition questioned Fitch’s claim, saying the field could still be accessed from Locust Road — approximately half-a-mile west of Fitch’s land.

Peel began discussions with the local board of supervisors around that time, according to his initial court petition, and he asked the county to consider vacating a portion of the road — potentially making a stretch of 360th Street a private road.

County officials ultimately issued Peel a letter in mid-November of 2023, instructing him to remove the materials from the road by Dec. 20 of that year. Peel’s subsequent court filing argued the board’s directive was — among other things — illegal, discriminatory and

Supervisor Mark Faldet discussed potentially changing the specific terms of a proposed legal settlement regarding erosion control measures a rural resident installed in the county right of way. (Photo by Zach Jensen) an abuse of discretion.

The board’s defense attorney countered in a response filed earlier this year, saying the board of supervisors is considered a highway authority under Iowa Code and is required to enforce certain provisions of the law — the defense specifically noted that “placing any obstruction in a highway right-of-way constitutes a public nuisance,” under Iowa law, and reiterated Peel did not have a permit from the county to take such action independently.

Peel appeared before the board on Dec. 11, 2023, asking the county for more time to comply and proposing alternate solutions, such as vacating a portion of the rural road. Fitch spoke during that meeting as well, according to minutes from that day, opposing Peel’s proposals.

The board voted unanimously at that time to hold Peel to the initial timeline, and Peel filed his petition against the board two days later. He asked a court to void the board’s vote and place a stay on any enforcement of the decision until the case was resolved. Peel claimed in his case that the board “acted in excess of its authority and illegally deprived the plaintiff of his federal and state constitutional due process rights” when it allowed Fitch to speak, noting she was not listed on the Dec. 11 agenda. Peel alleged the board may have felt granting Peel’s request to vacate a portion of the road would leave the county open to a lawsuit from Fitch. Peel’s filings argued such consideration would have been improper and said “the rest of the evidence received was con-

jecture and speculation as to how the vacation would be detrimental or how the placement of the riprap was adverse to the adjacent landowner.”

The defense asked the court to dismiss Peel’s case in its entirety, indicating the board’s consideration was broader than alleged by Peel.

“It is not just the adjacent landowner,” the county’s defense attorney wrote. “It is the public.”

Reconsidering details The proposed settlement has yet to be officially signed, but a drafted copy provided to the Decorah Leader shows Peel would be required to take certain actions within 30 days of its execution.

Peel would be required to remove any personal property from 360th Street, and remove any rip rap north of an automatic gate he must install — the settlement specifies Peel is to pay for the gate, which must be the same width as those the county uses on such roadways. That gate is to be installed 20 feet south of the manual gate which currently stands near Peel’s home, under the current terms of the settlement, but the board briefly discussed altering that distance.

Access codes for the gate are also to be given to Peel’s neighboring landowner and the Winneshiek County Engineer’s Office as part of the settlement.

In addition, the settlement

shows Peel would agree to dismiss his case against the county with prejudice — meaning it cannot be refiled at a later date. The settlement also shows the county would agree to take no further action against Peel or subsequent owners of the property in regard to the rip rap south of the prescribed gate.

Supervisor Shirley Vermace expressed her preference for a physical key and lock on the gate, rather than a digital lock — the combination to which she said could more easily be changed without notice and potentially exacerbate the issue.

“I don’t want to create a longterm problem for everybody involved,” Vermace said.

The board generally agreed to seek legal input regarding potential changes to the settlement after it has been proposed to Peel.

“If there’s a simple solution, that would be nice to know, if it exists,” Supervisor Steve Kelsay said.

The supervisors did confirm that the terms of the proposed settlement would apply to future landowners, whom Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines noted may be willing to renegotiate with county officials at a later date.

Online property listings show Peel’s listed residence was put on the market in early August for $1.5 million — the listing describes the property as a four-bedroom log home on 76 acres of land.

Corkery mom said, ‘If you care about people, you make sure you take care of people,’ and that is the fundamental belief of my being a Democrat.”

Before the floor was opened to questions, Corkery said she was thrilled to be in Decorah and admitted that appearing in Club 45 was a bit different than most of her campaign stops.

“I’ve never stood in front of a ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ sign,” she said. “We are all here together, right now, so let’s make the most of it. I’m not here to change anyone’s mind. I’m here to tell you what I think and tell you what I believe, and hopefully, we find a little common ground, or at least let’s have a little fun, because I think fun and joy is what’s going to bring people back to politics, and I think that’s what’s happening in the Democratic party and all over.”

Abortion and IVF Corkery said her stance on abortion and in-vitro fertilization is one of the key differences between her and U.S. Rep. Hinson.

“She signed the Life at Conception Act. She believes life starts at conception. That means that little cell, that’s a person, so no abortions nationwide, no exceptions — rape, incest, life of the mother. So, they’re saying IVF is not at conception, so it’s not covered.

They’re basically saying that doesn’t count, so it’s not a protected status, which is weird.”

Corkery, a small business owner, said Republicans’ pro-life movement isn’t about life at all.

“This is about power and control,” she said. “If this was about life, we would be fully feeding our kids, fully taking care of our kids. We would put the highest priority on making sure every kid was taken care of, and that is not happening.

Legislators came in and thought they knew better, but they don’t know better, and they need to stay out of it.”

The congressional candidate went further to say that people don’t choose to use abortion as a form of birth control.

“Nobody ever gets pregnant and uses an abortion for birth control electively,” she said.

“That is not happening. This is not fun. This is not something taken lightly. I did not like the billboard that Planned Parenthood took out that says ‘Abortion is healthcare.’ To me, that sounds like you’re going to the dentist, and you’re not. This is a heart-wrenching situation if you’re pregnant and want to be or don’t want to be. Flip the coin, and if you believe in God, we ended up as the ones who could be pregnant. What if it was men? Aren’t we equal?

We could go to jail here. This is not right, and if you’re mad about it, go to the polls. It’s gone too far. If you are for a national abortion ban, you are for Ashley Hinson. If you are for people that think doctors and patients should make their own decisions between the two

of them, that is what I believe 100 percent.”

EP ‘Scenic Route’ recording in 2008 thanks to encouragement from family and friends. My EP release was at Arthaus. My first-ever bands were here in Decorah. Done Doin’ Laundry let me into their group, and I felt so very lucky. Then Absolute Hoot came out of Jeni Grouws and Friends Live at the Winneshiek County Fair.”

She said the encouragement she received in Decorah has taken her to where she is today.

“None of what I’m doing, from hitting the Billboard charts to headlining a blues festival for the first time this past weekend would have happened if it weren’t for the community of support that exists here,” she said. “I’m pretty certain there were folks here that thought I could do this long before I actually thought I could. That’s a pretty special thing.”

Illegal voters, illegal immigration Audience members asked Corkery about her position on illegal immigrants being allowed to vote — which Corkery said is not happening.

“Do we allow illegal immigrants to vote? No, we don’t,” Corkery said. “It’s illegal. We never have. Everybody who legally can vote should. I think we just need more people involved in the process. Such low voter turnout is dismal, when we look at other countries who fight for their right to vote.

Anything I can do to get more people involved and engaged in voting is important and of course, legally.”

Hansen asked Corkery if she had a plan on how to handle illegal immigrants who are already living in the United States.

“We have never supported illegal behavior,” she said. “Nobody has. It’s not just ‘Oh, send them back.’ That is a child’s way of thinking. It does not work. If they’re here, and they’re illegal, we have to prosecute them.”

Ethanol Corkery was also asked about her thoughts on ethanol fuel production.

“We need to make sure that we’re working together with farmers,” she said. “Farmers are our friends and our allies — especially small farmers, because there are not a lot of them

anymore. But, we need to talk about crop rotation, ways to take care of our environment — ways to farm differently — to make sure these farmlands are around for another 100 or 200 or 300 years, because the way we’re going, a lot of that pollution is going down the river and into our waters. I’m a truth-teller. We start with science. What is working? What’s not working? Let’s lay out the facts, and let’s look at the plan together to make it better. The farm bill is still stuck after years and years, and what are they stuck on?

Capping SNAP — feeding poor kids — and there’s an environmental factor. Well, I think we should all agree we should feed kids and keep our environment healthy.”

Ukraine aid, gun rights Members of Saturday’s audience also inquired as to whether Corkery agreed with Hinson on providing billions of dollars in aid to help Ukraine defend against Russia.

“My understanding is we sent aid to Ukraine for defensive mechanisms, because Russia and Putin are invading them,” Corkery replied. “We need to stand with those who believe democracy is the answer. We cannot let bullies enter countries and take over without standing up and saying ‘That’s wrong.’ I would have voted ‘Yes’ on that.”

Corkery went on to say she hasn’t taken much action on gun legislation in Iowa, but she

sees a distinction between gun safety and gun control.

“I’ve never said ‘Take anyone’s guns away,’” Corkery said. “I said I want safer guns.

I want to be sure they’re locked up. I want to be sure kids don’t have access to them. I want to be sure people who are mentally ill don’t have access to them.

But, everyone else, keep your guns. I don’t care. Just don’t come to my kids’ school and blow them up, please.”

Separation of church and state Corkery said she’s in favor of the separation of church and state, and she highlighted the Students First Act as an example which has negatively-impacted Iowa’s education system.

“It was passed in the middle of the night by our governor,” she said. “People didn’t say ‘I really want this,’ and then it all came about. What it does is it takes $8,000 per kid away from public schools and (puts it) into private schools. It’s not fair, and it’s not right. I’m also mad that they came for our area education agencies, because those saved us money. When (Iowa’s governor) said it was bloated and over-sighted and a waste, it wasn’t. That was an outright lie — to dismantle the AEA, and now, so many have lost their jobs or quit, because there’s no job security … and that hurts Iowans. It’s just sad for future Iowans — especially those with kids with disabilities

continued from front

or who need a little extra help.

It’s going to be harder to serve them. It’s going to be more expensive.”

Taxes Corkery said that in terms of income tax, “everyone should pay what they can towards the common good,” which may mean people lesser means would pay less, while the wealthy class would pay more.

“Rich people should pay their fair share, and I don’t think it’s ever worked to ask them if they would just do that,” she said.

“People won’t do the right thing just because it’s the right thing to do. We have to tell them what they need to do. We all need to pay our fair share.

What’s wrong with that? It’s called ‘Help each other out a bit.’ What are we here for? Everybody. We’re all going to die one day. Every single person in this room will be dead, and what will be left? Whatever we leave behind. Are we going to leave it better or worse than we found it? That is ultimately the question at the end of the day for me.”

Hansen said Club 45 hasn’t yet heard back from Hinson’s campaign on whether she’ll make a public appearance at the local Republican headquarters. Additionally, Corkery announced that Iowa Public Television has offered to host a televised debate between herself and Hinson — a date for which has not yet been scheduled.

Grouws in Decorah, and I shook the entire time.”

According to Grouws, she only started writing music at the encouragement of her WMC therapist Ron Hougen, who literally wrote a prescription for her to write a song.

“Which I swore I’d never be able to do,” she said. “But I did it, and then released my

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Songwriting career Decorah radio listeners know Grouws well. After an 18-year career in radio broadcasting in Decorah, Grouws left the radio business a few years ago to pursue a full-time musician’s schedule.

Grouws now performs solo shows, and she also tours with

Avey Grouws Band.

Blending blues, roots, rock and soul, the band has become a Midwest favorite and performs throughout the country.

The two-time top 10 billboard charting band is popular in the area, traditionally performing at one of the canopies during Decorah’s Nordic Fest each summer. Joining her in the Avey Grouws Band are Chris Avey, Bryan West and Randy Leasman.

“The only reason I’ve been able to do what I do now with Avey Grouws Band is because of the atmosphere and encouragement Decorah has offered,” she said.

Sept. 14 concert The next few weeks will be busy for Grouws. Her final days before leaving for Omaha will be spent putting the finishing

touches on her set for the Sunset Sessions in Lansing Sept.

14.

Working with a few other organizers in the area, Grouws is helping the Red Barn Campground and Restaurant on Lansing’s west edge, in welcoming award-winning songwriters for a one-day festival titled Sunset Sessions.

Grouws will join Kevin Burt, International Blues Challenge winner and Gulf Coast artist from Iowa City and Frank Martin Bush, an award-winning artist from Wisconsin. Also taking the stage for a portion of the day are JR Brink from Waukon and three area young people: 18-year-old Elayna Hook, daughter of Byron Hook and Emily Hook of Decorah; 17-year-old Annie Ellingson from Waukon; and 14-yearold Hudson Thirtyacre from

continued from front Shueyville.

Sunset Sessions starts at 3 p.m. with featured musicians Hook, Ellingson and Thirtyacre; and then from 4 to 6 p.m., the headliners will take over.

Those attending also are invited to stick around after the show for some campfire songs with JR Brink.

Red Barn owners Terry Ely and Jenetta Williams Ely hope to host events like this in the years to come.

Grouws said the Sept. 14 event is the perfect send-off for her next chapter.

“For me, this is an opportunity as a songwriter whose roots started right here in Decorah to say thank-you and I love you to the area before I leave for these eight months,” she said.

COMMUNITY

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

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Community briefs Faith Lutheran of Blackhammer to host meatball supper

The Faith Lutheran Church of Blackhammer of Spring Grove, Minnesota will host a meatball supper from 5-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 11.

The menu includes meatballs and gravy, mashed potatoes, carrots, coleslaw, buns, lefse, dessert and a beverage. The cost for adults and carry-outs is $14, and kids age 5 to 12 cost $5. Kids under 5 years old eat free. The church’s basement is air conditioned.

East Water Street to be closed for installation of water service

The city of Decorah notified residents last week that the 200 Block of East Water Street between State Street and Riverside Avenue/Day Street will be closed until the end of the day Friday, Sept. 6 to allow for the installation of a new water service. For more information, call 563-382-5171.

Wellington Place to host Alzheimer’s awareness fundraiser

Wellington Place Care Center is planning to host a silent auction and bake sale from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept.

4. The event will raise money for the broader fundraising efforts of the Wellington Walkers Team as they promote awareness of Alzheimer’s disease.

Decorah Area Quilters to meet

The Decorah Area Quilters will hold the first meeting of their second year at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 at ArtHaus in Decorah. Members are welcome to pay $5 to cover this next year’s membership at this meeting. After a welcome and introductions, members will be sharing any new projects in show and tell. Each person in attendance is asked to bring one yard of quilting fabric in a color or pattern that makes them happy. Everyone will go home with a combination of fabrics - including some of their own. The Decorah Area Quilters meet at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at ArtHaus. Each meeting consists of a brief welcome and introductions, showand-tell, a question and answer session and a few minutes to talk with other quilters. The cost is $2 per meeting or $5 for the entire year. Everyone is welcome.

For more information, please contact Mike Ellingsen at 507602-0322, or Jarret Johnson at 563-419-6952.

Alma Mater beer continued from A-3 Decorah,” said Scott Nading, general manager at Pulpit Rock.

“We’re looking ahead to potential additional partnerships on merchandise as well.”

Along with Alma Mater beer, Luther College also has entered into a separate arrangement to provide its proprietary granola mix to be used in special pastry sour beers brewed by Pulpit Rock. The initial agreement extends to the end of 2025.

Calmar Lutheran young adults participate in Nashville mission trip A group of 13 young adults from Calmar Lutheran Church participated in a mission trip and camp from July 28 to Aug. 2 in Nashville, Tennessee. The group slept on air mattresses in a local church and joined with three other churches from the Midwest. The camp included lessons on leadership, teamwork, confidence, compassion and spiritual growth. Pictured (left to right) are Jill Dahl, Caylie Adam, Kenzie Monroe, Tami Monroe, Jayden Clinton, Chance Adam, Rachel Meyer, Bridget Adam, Jenna Dahl, Tad Mueller, Lisa Mueller, Brad Dahl and Chase Adam. (Photo submitted)

Law Enforcement Decorah Police Department

Jose De Leon Juarez, age 37, of Dorchester was charged with fourth-degree theft at approximately 7:03 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22 at the Decorah Walmart. The store’s loss prevention told police two males were involved in a theft there, and a Decorah Police officer located two males fitting the description of the perpetrators in a vehicle about a mile from the local Walmart. The officer observed merchandise which appeared to be from Walmart and, with the assistance of a translator, De Leon Juarez and the driver of the vehicle — 25-year-old Oscar Tepole Tzanahua of Dorchester — admitted they had stolen the items, according to a separate criminal complaints. Tepole Tzanahua was also charged with fourth-degree theft as well as no valid drivers license.

Walmart is seeking more than $730 in restitution, according to the complaint. De Leon Juarez was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 8:10 p.m., and Tepole Tzanahua was booked into the jail at 8:10 p.m. the same day.

Decorah Police officers were dispatched at 10:07 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25 to Walmart for a reported

shoplifting which had just occurred — a criminal complaint described the suspect at “being bloody and having injuries to his face and arm.” An officer made contact with 23-year-old Tyler James Markee-Dickerson of Waukon outside the Walmart pharmacy doors and observed signs of intoxication — Markee-Dickerson admitted to having “two shots of Tito’s Vodka,” according to the complaint.

Dickerson was placed under arrest for public intoxication — first offense — and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 10:40 p.m. the same day. The initial criminal complaint said the 23-year-old became upset and aggressive during the arrest, and the officer requested assistance from deputies while en route to the county jail, and he was booked at 10:48 p.m. that day.

A separate criminal complaint said Markee-Dickerson was uncooperative and “was not making much sense and repeating things” as well as “displaying rapid and agitated body movements.” The complaint went on to indicate Markee-Dickerson refused to change into jail clothing and had to be assisted by law enforcement. At one point, he grabbed an officer’s wrist, causing redness, and the 23-year-old was charged with assault on persons in

certain occupations. He was then placed in a padded jail cell. A third criminal complaint charged Markee-Dickerson with third-degree criminal mischief, after he allegedly removed the rubber coating of the padded cell — repairs were estimated at $1,000. The complaint said Markee-Dickerson told a deputy “it was the time he was refused a phone call and he used his finger nails to cause the damage.”

The Decorah Police Department advised the public to take caution while navigating the intersection of Highways 9 and 52 in Decorah after from an animal renderings spilled onto the road on Sunday, Sept. 1. The police posted a statement at approximately 9:40 p.m. that day, saying the debris had been cleared and sand had been applied to the road. The Decorah Police Department was assisted by the Iowa State Patrol, the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Department of Transportation.

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

Grace aids Bert Porter were photographed collecting butterflies. (Photo submitted)

Grace Porter exhibit featured at Porter House Museum Free children’s books still available

Visitors to Decorah’s Porter House Museum can see a closing exhibit on Grace Porter during weekends this September, and visiting children will receive free books.

The museum is named after Bert and Grace Porter, the couple who donated the home, its contents and their many collections for public display.

This year’s special emphasis is Grace.

Grace was born in 1880 to a family who championed women’s rights. Grace also was an advocate of suffrage. “Grace was a woman of substance, a lifelong learner, devoted to changing the world for the better,” said local historian Elizabeth Lorentzen.

Dresses worn by Grace from her early childhood through her 60s are on display throughout both floors of the museum. Two collections of enlarged photos track her life from infancy to old age and

show her adventures around Decorah and the world.

Grace accompanied her husband on trips, collecting butterflies around the U.S., South America and countries of the Pacific.

Children who visit in September will receive free copies of Sibylle von Olfer’s picture book “The Story of the Butterfly Children,” in addition to free admittance to the museum. First published in 1915, the book is contemporary with Bert Porter’s beginnings as a butterfly collector.

The books are provided by the Oneota Valley Literary Foundation, in partnership with the Porter House Museum.

The museum at 401 W. Broadway in Decorah is open for tours at 1, 2 and 3 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays during September. It will then close for the season, reopening in May of 2025.

Locals place during Iowa State Fair cow showings A number of entrants in the region competed in dairy cattle showings at the Iowa State Fair earlier this month. Results from fair officials listed several area names among the top entries.

Ayrshire Show Aaron And Melissa Lovstuen and Family of Decorah placed fourth in the spring heifer calf competition, as well as 13th in the winter heifer calf division and ninth in the fall heifer calf bracket. They also took second place with their entry in the summer junior 2-year-old cow competition, and third place in the spring 2-year-old cow showing.

Alanna Schatz of Cresco earned the third-place slot in the summer yearling heifer showing, with Cody Zidlicky of Decorah taking eighth-place in that competition — Zidlicky also earned third-place honors in the senior 2-year-old cow division.

Brown Swiss Courtlane Holsteins of Ridgeway earned first place in the winter heifer calf competition as well as the top slot in the spring yearling heifer. Courtlane Holsteins’ entry was listed first in the Junior Champion Female and Reserve judging.

tion and took second place in the spring heifer calf division.

Aaron and Melissa Lovstuen and family earned the top spot in the summer yearling heifer show and took second place in the contest for Junior Champion Female and Reserve. Courtlane Holsteins earned second place in the spring yearling heifer competition.

Holstein Heavens Elite of Waukon was marked as 11th among the entries in the spring heifer calf competition. Courtlane Holsteins earned 13th place in the same contest, and Ali Melcher of Waukon earned 15th place.

Danhof Holsteins Danhof earned sixth place in the winter heifer calf class, with Alanna Schatz taking ninth place, and Courtlane Holsteins taking both 11th and 15th place. The Lovstuen family were listed in 18th place.

Tnt Cattle Company of Waukon was ranked 10th in the fall heifer calf class, with Heavens Elite in 13th place and Courtlane Holsteins in both 15th and 17th place. The Lovstuen

family were ranked 20th in that competition.

Danhof Holsteins Danhof earned second place for summer yearling heifer. Courtlane Holsteins took seventh place in that class, with Danhof Holsteins Danhof also taking eighth place.

Danhof Holsteins Danhof took third place in the spring yearling heifer contest. Heavens Elite earned ninth in that competition, and the Lovstuen family took 13th place.

Courtlane Holsteins earned seventh place in the winter yearling heifer competition, with the Lovstuen family taking ninth place.

Anna Schatz was ranked second in the fall yearling — not in milk — competition, and Nolan Schatz of Cresco earned fourthplace in that bracket.

Courtlane Holsteins took fifth place in the junior best of three female division.

TnT Cattle Company earned second place in the summer junior 2-year-old cow contest, with Iota Farm of Decorah coming taking third.

Courtlane Holsteins earned

Guernsey Danhof Holsteins Danhof of Waukon earned first place in the winter heifer calf competi-

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first-place in the junior 2-yearold cow show, with the Lovstuen family in third place and Danhof Holsteins Danhof in fourth place.

The Lovstuen family also took ninth place in the senior 2-year-old cow division. Danhof Holsteins Danhof was awarded first place in the fouryear-old cow competition, as well as fifth place in both the best head of three and best head of four contests.

Courtlane Holsteins was ranked third in the Intermediate Champion Female and Reserve judging. Danhof Holsteins Danhof was listed as first by the Senior Champion and Female and Reserve judge and listed as third in the contest for Grand Champion Female and Reserve.

Jersey Iota Farm placed third in the spring heifer calf class, as well as seventh in both the winter heifer calf and summer yearling heifer divisions. Iota Farm also earned third place in the senior 2-year-old cow contest and sixth place in the 4-year-old cow show. Nolan Schatz placed

12th in the fall heifer calf competition. Alanna Schatz was the lone entrant listed in the fall yearling heifer — not in milk — contest, earning first place.

Milking shorthorn Taylor Sparrgrove of Castalia was listed in first place for the summer yearling heifer contest, as well as fourth place in the fall heifer calf competition.

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Remodel or rebuild

Bachmurski continued from front

council chambers were redesigned in 1992.

But nearly 75 years after the building was completed, its unusual roof has started to leak and its tiles are weakening — just some of a growing list of concerns within the aging structure. Some portions of the building, such as certain restrooms and entrances are not compliant with the American with Disabilities Act — and there is no ramp access in the council chambers. Portions of the structure are also not up to Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. The building’s fire alarm system only provides partial coverage, and most areas of the building don’t have the appropriate notification — horns, strobes, speakers, etc.

Brunton Engineering and Construction firm was hired by the city in late 2023 to perform a walkthrough and inspection of the municipal building.

The firm’s evaluation outlined the building’s deficiencies and outlined potential solutions for each issue.

Goedken sorted each issue into one of four priorities — what he called “need,” “should,” “will have to,” and “do without.”

Issues like foundation cracks, leakage, condensation of exterior windows and asbestos in crawl spaces were all items which would have to be accomplished, according to Goedken,

whereas a new storage room for audio video equipment or exterior stone cleaning and sealing were listed as things the city could do without. Goedken’s list of priority items totaled more than $2 million, with the “need” and “want” lists each coming in just shy of $1 million, for a total of around $4 million. City officials indicated those items would bring the municipal building to a renewed functioning status.

As a second option, Goedken referred to a May 2022 design

by Brunton, which included a remodel of the existing building, an extension of the current fire department bays and a 3,000 square-foot addition on the northside of the building for the police department. The renovations and addition were tallied with 10 years of maintenance and upkeep, topping out around $9.5 million.

Goedken dove further into the Brunton design archives and presented a third option for council to consider.

In February 2022, Brunton designed a ground-up design, in which the current structure would be razed and a 44,000 square-foot facility would be constructed in its place. Seven bays would be erected collectively at one end, and the building could have enough offices to centrally house city employees.

According to Brunton’s 2022 estimate, the cost for a new

building would be approximately $15 million, but that number could be less.

“We don’t need as much dedicated office space as what is shown in these plans,” Goedken said.

At a special session held Monday, August 26, the city council and staff met to consider the options for the municipal building, but no decision was made. Council members did say they would like to have new construction plans reviewed by Brunton to see how they could potentially reduce the $15 million price tag.

Council members said they would sacrifice the historic value for a functional building that would be more efficient and comfortable for the offices and departments housed within.

“I want to build a building that people will want to work out of,” said Council Member at Large Emily Neal.

Several council members said they would like to consider repairing and updating the building along with several expansions.

Goedken will be meeting again with Brunton to see how much of the estimated price can be whittled down from each of the two options before presenting plans to the city council.

The city manager indicated the improvements will likely require a bond, which he said won’t go to the polls until November of 2024 at the earliest.

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Marshal Service contacted the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office in May of 2022 regarding the case, saying Colvin was believed to have come to Winneshiek County prior to her disappearance. The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office then launched an investigation with the aid of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Winneshiek County Attorney’s Office.

Teen was brought to Iowa from Arizona Information from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said Colvin’s mother brought the teen to Iowa from Arizona to live with Bachmurski in the early spring of 2017. Investigators found Bachmurski “had encouraged and participated in a one-on-one relationship with Jade Colvin via electronic messaging for approximately 30 days prior to her coming to stay at his residence.” A criminal complaint said Bachmurski told authorities Colvin’s mother was unaware of their communicating, and “he had used some of his own money to facilitate Jade Colvin being brought to his residence in March of 2017.”Investigators also discovered Colvin had “extensive conversations with friends her age, and that they planned to communicate immediately after her arrival in Iowa in late 2017.” A criminal complaint said Bachmurski told law enforcement the 15-yearold’s cell phone had no service once she arrived at his property in the 2000 block of Skyline View Drive in rural Decorah.

Bachmurski told authorities he allowed Colvin to use his phone — which records confirmed, according to the complaint. “The messages sent by Jade Colvin from the defendant’s cell phone during the early morning hours of March 30, 2017, were the last messages ever known to be received by any person,” the criminal complaint said. Court documents said Bachmurski al-

legedly lied to investigators at some point, saying Colvin had gone elsewhere after her final recorded text, and the 65-yearold allegedly made “false and contradictory statements to others, including investigators and his son.” Interviews with Bachmurski’s son indicated Colvin had been at the family’s rural farm property in southern Winneshiek County in March of that year, according to court documents, and the son observed Colvin’s property at the farmhouse “a few months after Jade Colvin was gone.”

Bachmurski previously charged with abusing sons Bachmurski had previously been charged with willful injury, first-degree harassment and assault causing bodily injury as part of a separate case in April of 2013, according to court filings — court documents showed prosecutors also filed multiple counts of child endangerment. Filings in that case accused Bachmurski of abusing his sons “on a daily basis,” saying a sheriff’s deputy was informed Bachmurski had on at least one occasion used ratchet straps to tie his son to a metal folding chair “and shocked him multiple times on the arm with an electric fence charger.” The filings went on to say Bachmurski had “repeatedly threatened to shoot his sons” and was in possession of approximately 10 firearms at that time. Bachmurski allegedly threatened his sons, saying they were “not worth the price of the bullet it would take to kill them,” and that “he could shoot them and bury them in the backyard and no one would know.”Bachmurski pleaded guilty to the willful injury and harassment charges and was placed on probation as part of court decision in May of that year — he was to serve two years probation for the harassment charge and five years for willful injury. A Winneshiek

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DECORAH’S CITYWIDE

If interested, please stop by the Central Administration Office, 1732 Old Stage Road, Decorah, IA 52101, to fill out a Substitute Application.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 14

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

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For Sale For Sale: Honda Motorcycle, Twinstar CM200T, 1980, 320 original miles, great condition. $2,500. 563380-3082. 35-4-LD-1-pd For Sale: Mini-AussieDoodles, 8 weeks old, 3 females, 2 males.

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County Sheriff’s deputy helped conduct a welfare/probation check in January of 2018 at Bachmurski’s residence and observed a .223 caliber Stevens rifle in Bachmurski’s closet.

Bachmurski was later charged with control of a firearm by a felon and pleaded not guilty.

Court filings in that case show Bachmurski’s defense attorney had lost contact with his client by February of 2019.

The attorney said Bachmurski had sold his residence and was not responding to phone calls or text messages.

“It is possible that the defendant has moved out of state, and his intentions to return are unknown,” the defense wrote in a motion filed on Valentine’s Day of 2019.

Bachmurski failed to appear in court the following month, and a nationwide warrant was issued for his arrest that same day. The warrant was originally valid for one year, but prosecutors later asked the court to strike the warrant’s expiration date — which a judge granted.

Court records indicate authorities were able to interview Bachmurski at some point in 2023, asking him if he recognized a picture of Colvin. “I do,” Bachmurski is quoted as saying. “I’m not gonna lie. I do.

As a matter of fact, I’ll guarantee you I’m getting myself in a lot of trouble. I want to tell the truth.” Authorities served Bachmurski a warrant on June 20, 2024, for his possession of the Stevens rifle. The 65-yearold was transported from the Emanuel County Jail in Georgia to the Winneshiek County Jail and was later served a warrant in the murder case on Monday — more than seven years after Jade Colvin disappeared. The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office previously said the murder case remains an open and active investigation with the possibility of additional charges and arrests.

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continued from front

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

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

Map and listing will be published in the Decorah Leader Sept. 12

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

ALL ADS MUST BE PAID BEFORE PUBLICATION DATE

Register by Noon on FRIDAY, SEPT. 6 to be on the map!

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

25 words or less description:

___________________________ ___________________________

Name: _____________________________________

___________________________

Address: ___________________________________

___________________________

____________________________________________

___________________________

Phone #: ___________________________________

___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________

Questions? Call 563-382-4221

___________________________

PUBLIC NOTICES

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LELAND HOLTHAUS DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016314 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, OF APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Leland Holthaus, Deceased, who died on or about August 9, 2024: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 21st day of August, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Leland Holthaus, deceased, bearing date of March 25, 2016, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Pamela Drucker was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated this 26th day of August, 2024.

Pamela Drucker Executor of Estate 206 N. Iowa St. PO Box 413 Calmar, IA 52132 John S. Anderson ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago, P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 563-382-2959 Email: john.anderson@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: September 5, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader August 29 & September 5, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WAYNE TIESKOETTER DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016316 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, OF APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Wayne Tieskoetter, Deceased, who died on or about August 12, 2024: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 23rd day of August, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Wayne Tieskoetter, deceased, bearing date of May 16, 2024, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Allan Schmitt was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated this 26th day of August, 2024.

Allan Schmitt Executor of Estate 1741 Sand Rd., Ossian, IA 52161 Dustin H. Noble ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago, P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 563-382-2959 Email: dustin.noble@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: September 5, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader August 29 & September 5, 2024

City of Decorah Council Minutes August 19,2024 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.

Christopher Miculinich, Brent Parker, Ross Hadley Members (Zoom), present: Mayor Randy Lorraine Schissel, Borowski Emily and Neal, City Kirsten Clerk Keri Olson, Sand Tom Hansen, 3469 Locust Road, Decorah IA spoke during public comment.

He stated that former State Senator Bill Dix was caught on video in Des Moines kissing someone other than his wife on March 1, 2018. The Republicans, including Tom Hansen, Democrats and the media was immediate. It has been two and half months since Steve Zittergruen was caught on video at Chattahoochee Park doing something just as immoral. There has been no response from Democrats or city council. As an elected official, Steve Zittergruen’s private actions reflect on his public service. Steve Zittergruen needs to resign from this council.

Consent agenda was presented.

A. Minutes of the August 5, 2024, Council Meeting and August 8, 2024, Council Meeting B. Claims C. Resolution 3484 Setting Public Hearing on Designation of the Expanded Central Business District Urban Renewal Area and on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment D. Resolution 3485 Setting Date for Public Hearing on Designation of the Decorah East Side Residential Urban Renewal area and on Urban Renewal Plan and Project E. Renewal Class C Retail Alcohol License-Corner Bar F. Renewal Special Class C Retail Alcohol License-Koreana G. Renewal Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service-La Rana Bistro H. Renewal Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service, Catering, and Living Quarters, Rubaiyat I. Renewal Class C Retail Alcohol License-Fairfield Marriott Olson made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes.

Motion carried.

Olson made a motion to approve Resolution 3486 approving a service agreement with ISG for Dahlen Property Planning. Schissel seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Schissel made a motion to approve Resolution 3487 approving the final plat of Briar Grove Subdivision, Parker seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Schissel made a motion to approve the first reading of an ordinance amending Section 2.22.030 of the Decorah Municipal Code regardingBoard of Park Commissioners Powers and Duties. Hadley seconded the motion.

Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Schissel made a motion to waive the second and third reading and adopt the ordinance. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Schissel, Olson, Parker, Miculinich, Hadley. Nays: Emily. Motion fails due to needing six out of seven votes to waive the second and third readings.

Hadley made a motion to approve the C-3 Design Application for Vesterheim at 418 W. Water St. Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

The council discussed an overnight permitted parking program for individuals that live downtown above commercial businesses. City staff referred to a report that showed that there is enough overnight parking stalls

compared to the number of downtown residents. The council will have a work session in September to discuss the overnight permitted parking program and the city street plan when more information will be available.

The council discussed the possibility of a noise ordinance. City Manager, Travis Goedken, discussed several types of noise ordinances that either work with time, activity, and/or decibels. The council has requested that Goedken create an ordinance using a combination of time and decibels to enforce a noise ordinance. This will be presented at a future council meeting.

City Manager Goedken reviewed a downtown economic development grant program for businesses in the downtown district. The council gave Goedken feedback on what they liked about the program and requested that he bring the program back to council for review and vote.

Meeting adjourned at 6:47 PM. /s/ Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Payroll, For 8/16/24 ......................228855.12 Alliant Energy, Elec Bills................27472.20 Hageman, Deana, Reimbursement ......694.96 Petty Cash, Postage ...............................20.80 Tricia Crary, Reimbursement ................43.00 Winn Co Landfill, Debris ........................9.00 Comm Foundation Of NE Iowa, RSVP............................................20000.00 Goedken, Travis, Reimbursement .......268.70 Pitney Bowes, Postage ........................141.05 ACCO, Chemicals.............................3364.70 Ace Hardware, Supplies......................166.65 AcenTek, Fees .....................................270.00 AIA Services, Apparel ......................3735.66 Airespring, Services ............................276.75 Alliant, Elec Bills ............................10780.19 Amazon, Supplies ...............................593.59 Baker & Taylor, Books........................348.74 Black Hills Energy, Gas Bills ...........3034.72 Bodensteiner Imp, Parts/Service .........541.47 Bookpage, Subscription ......................822.60 Bremer, Louann, Cleaning ................1000.00 Bruening Rock , Road Rock ...............117.56 Campground Commander, Services ..........................................1291.89 Card Service Center, Supplies...........1898.16 Casper Plbg & Htg, Parts/Service .....5627.60 Central Square Tech, Contract ............823.20 Civic Plus, Support ...........................2226.64 Croell, Street Patch ..........................3407.00 CS Solar, Electric Bill .......................3710.70 Dalco, Supplies ...................................843.64 Decorah Schools, Internet ...................281.54 Decorah Leader, Publication ...............278.22 Mobile Glass, Services........................805.00 Decorah Vet, Services .........................128.46 Diamond Vogel, Paint .......................1657.50 Drake Folkedahl, Sidewalk Repair .....900.00 Erdman Engineering, Services ........13536.50 Falck Concrete, Repair......................3980.50 Fareway, Supplies .................................77.05 Forestry Suppliers, Supplies ...............793.75 Pepsi , Concessions .............................480.90 Hawkins, Chemicals .........................2826.15 Hexom Gardens, Landscaping ............107.00 Impact Coffee, Coffee .........................250.00 IMWCA, Insurance ...........................7586.00 Invision Architecture, Space Audit ....................................1400.00 IA Dept Of Public Safety, Services ............................................667.50 IA Law Enforcement Academy, Training ..............................................25.00 IA One Call, Services............................98.10 Iroc Web Design, Services ................2775.00 J. Kupka, Cleaning ............................1681.00 Jessica Rediske, Patches .......................60.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies ...........681.81 Kanopy LLC, Film Database ..............149.00 Keystone Lab, Analysis ......................537.25 Kirkwood College, Training ...............560.00 Kwik Trip, Fuel .................................6491.78 L2 Brands, Hats ..................................361.66 Laura Gillespie, Services .................1827.00 Leon’s Auto, Parts/Service ..................144.00 Letterwerks, Supplies..........................856.50 Lexipol, Policies ...............................8013.60 Lulu & Bb’s, Dog Food ........................83.98 Malcom, Garbage ................................798.50 McClure Engineering, Consulting ....1879.05 McDonald Supply, Parts .......................48.37 Mi Energy, Electric Bill ....................3000.82 Mike’s Fab, Motor ..............................110.00 Mississippi Welders, Parts ....................40.17 Mower Power, Parts ............................619.96 Mph Ind, Equip .................................1980.00 Napa, Parts ..........................................180.72 Ness Pumping, Pumping .....................325.00 Nina Smock, Program ...........................75.00 Olson Explosives, Fuel .....................1972.96 Oneota Coop, Supplies..........................15.67 Overdrive, Books ..............................1804.73 Novak Electric, Locate........................591.00 Pinter’s, Trees......................................731.52 Kubota Of Waukon, Parts ...................566.85 PRI Management, Subscription ..........179.00 Prositions, Training ..........................3404.15 Questcdn.com, Services ......................594.00 Randy’s Auto Parts, Parts....................216.03 Reliance, Life Insurance ...................1127.00 Ricoh USA, Printing ...........................459.20 Rockweiler’s, TV .............................2298.00 Samuelson, Riley, Services .................550.00 Schwan’s, Concessions .......................143.64 Sherwin Williams, Supplies ..................99.07 Skyline Const, Materials ...................1925.00 Spahn & Rose, Supplies......................180.31 Star Equip, Parts................................8115.00 Station Automation, Subscription .....2944.05 Steve’s Car Care, Washes......................51.75 Storey Kenworthy, Office Supplies...5938.51 Storypeople, Memorial .........................50.00 Suttons Car Wash, Washes ..................248.85 The Landing, Supplies ............................6.00 Thornton’s , Supplies ..........................229.00 Tollefson, Jim, Services ......................160.00 Transunion , TLO ................................180.00 Truck Equip, Parts.............................1626.90 Uline, Boxes........................................180.00 UPS, Postage .........................................12.92 USA Blue Book, Supplies ...................543.99 Verizon, Phone ..................................1536.77 Windridge Imp, Supplies ......................39.00 Winn. Co. Treasurer, Tax ..................1650.00 Winn Co Recycling, Reycling .............60.00 Revenue To Date August 16, 2024 General Fund..................................................

Street Electric Franchise Fee ....1,075,146.54 Road Use Fund.............................164,601.41 Employee Benefits .......................178,338.41 Hotel/Motel ....................................60,586.67 Local Option Sales Tax ..................43,039.91 Ssmid..............................................................

Park Special Gifts ............................3,039.90 Library Special Gifts ......................60,476.07 Street Equip Fund ..........................................

Debt Service Fund..........................................

Special Projects ..............................................

Water Utility Fund .......................127,994.69 Sewer Utility Fund .......................200,518.28 Enterprise Project Interest ..............................

Metronet ..............................................143.10 Forest Utility ..................................23,129.39 Storm Sewer Utility .......................30,682.41 Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 5, 2024

OFFICIAL NOTICE BEFORE THE UTILITIES COMMISSION OF THE STATE OF IOWA TO THE CITIZENS OF WINNESHIEK COUNTY: Notice is given that Dairyland Power Cooperative, La Crosse, Wisconsin, pursuant to Iowa Code chapter 478, has filed a petition with the Iowa Utilities Commission (IUC) for extension of franchise to maintain and operate an electric transmission line setting forth the following as the maximum voltage, starting points, routes, and termini of the existing line: EXHIBIT A 69,000V Nominal Voltage (72,500V Maximum Voltage) Electric Transmission Line Winneshiek County, Iowa The West endpoint of this line is an existing Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage electrical transmission line, located approximately 0.07 mile North of and 0.27 mile West of the SE corner of said Section 15, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; the West terminus of this line is an existing ITC Midwest LLC (ITC), Decorah Electrical Transmission Substation, located in the SE¼-SW¼ and the SW¼-SE¼, of said Section 15, within the city limits of Decorah, Iowa.

The East endpoint of this line is an existing Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage electrical transmission line, located approximately 0.1 mile South of the NE corner of Section 24, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; and, the South terminus of this line is an existing Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage, Postville Transmission Substation, located in the SW¼-NW¼, Section 12, T95N, R6W, of the 5th P.M., Clayton County, Iowa.

Beginning at a point on the east corporate

limits of Decorah, Iowa in the Upper Iowa River, approximately 0.07 mile North of and 0.27 mile West of the SE corner of said Section 15, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; thence Southeasterly, on public right of way in the SE¼ of said Section 15, crossing public road (Ice Cave Road), a distance of approximately .16 miles, to a point on private property being approximately 0.13 mile West of and 0.01 South of the NE corner of Section 22, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; thence East, on private right of way along the North lines of Sections 22 and 23, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately .53 mile, to a point on the west corporate limits of Decorah, Iowa in the Upper Iowa River, approximately 0.01 mile South of and 0.1 mile West of the N¼ corner of said Section 23; thence continuing through the city limits of Decorah, Iowa, this transmission line begins again at a point approximately 0.01 mile South of and 0.25 mile West of the NE corner of Section 23, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; thence East, on private right of way along the North line of Sections 23 and 24, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, and along the North margin of a public road (Mollers Drive), crossing public roads (County Road A6W/River Road), (172nd Avenue), (170th Avenue) and (249th Street), a distance of approximately 1.12 miles, to a point approximately 0.04 mile South of and 0.14 mile West of the NE corner of Section 24; thence Southeasterly, on private right of way in the NE¼-NE¼ of Section 24, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 0.15 miles, to a point approximately 0.1 mile South of the NE corner of Section 24 and the East endpoint of this line.

The total distance of this 69,000V nominal voltage line is approximately 1.96 miles.

A map showing the route of the electric line may be obtained at no cost by calling (608) 788-4000 or by writing to Dairyland Power Cooperative, Attn: Real Estate and Right of Way Department, 3200 East Avenue South, P.O. Box 817, La Crosse, WI 546020817.

Orders issued and documents filed in this docket (No. E-22557) may be viewed by searching under the docket number in the IUC’s electronic filing system (EFS) at efs. iowa.gov. Objections to the granting of the franchise may be filed electronically using EFS or filed in writing with the IUC no later than 20 days after the date of second publication of this notice. Instructions for submitting an electronic filing can be found in EFS; written objections must be mailed to the Iowa Utilities Commission, 1375 E. Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50319.

The date of the first publication is September 5, 2024. The date of the second publication is September 12, 2024.

IOWA UTILITIES COMMISSION BY: Jon Tack General Counsel Dated this 22nd day of August, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 5 & 12, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON DESIGNATION OF EXPANDED CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT URBAN RENEWAL AREA AND ON PROPOSED URBAN RENEWAL PLAN AMENDMENT Notice Is Hereby Given: That at 5 :45 p.m., at the Decorah City Chambers, Decorah, Iowa, on September 16, 2024, the City Council of the City of Decorah will hold a public hearing on the question of amending the urban renewal plan (the “Plan”) for the Central Business District Urban Renewal Area and designating an expanded Central Business District Urban Renewal Area (the “Urban Renewal Area”), pursuant to Chapter 403, Code of Iowa, by adding and including certain real property situated in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, State of Iowa described as follows: Beginning at the north line of South Avenue and the centerline of First Street; thence south along the centerline of First Street to the centerline of John Street; thence continuing south along the centerline of John Street to the centerline of the alley in Block 44 of Original Decorah; thence west along the centerline of said alley to the centerline of Day Street; thence north along the centerline of Day Street to the centerline of the alley in Block 14 of Original Decorah; thence west along the centerline of said alley to an extension of the easterly line of Lot 2 of 5 in said Block 14; thence southwesterly along the extension and easterly line of said Lot 2 of 5 and the easterly line of Lot 2 of 6 and Lot 3 of 7 in said Block 14 and extending to the centerline of East Main Street; thence west along the centerline of East Main Street to the centerline of State Street; thence south along the centerline of State Street to the centerline of East Broadway; thence east along the centerline of East Broadway to the east line of State Street; thence south along the east line of State Street to the south line of Block 28 of Original Decorah; thence east along the south line of said Block 28 to the west line of Winship and Kenyon’s Addition; thence south along the west line of said Winship and Kenyon’s Addition to the north line of Block 1 of Townsley’s Addition; thence west along the north line of said Block I to the east line of Lot “13” in the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast quarter of Section 16, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th Principal Meridian; thence southwesterly along the east line of said Lot to the south line of said Lot “13 “, also being the north line in common with Lloyd Street; thence west along the south line of said Lot and line in common, to the west line of said Lot “13 “; thence north easterly along the west line of said Lot to the south line of Lot 4 of 6 in said Block 1; thence west along the south line of said Lot 4 of 6 to the east line of Lot 7 in Block 1 at a point 2.0 feet north of the south line of said Lot 7; thence continuing west along a line parallel with and 2.0 feet north of the said south line of said Lot 7 and extending to the centerline of Washington Street; thence south along the centerline of Washington Street to an extension of the south line of Lot 19 in said quarter-quarter; thence west along the south line, and extension of said Lot 19 to the east line of Woodward’s Addition at a point 22.7 feet south of the north line of Lot 18 in said Woodward’s Addition; thence continuing west along a line parallel with and 22.7 feet south of the said north line of said north line of said Lot 18 and extending to the centerline of Winnebago Street; thence north along the centerline of Winnebago Street to the centerline of West Broadway; thence west along the centerline of West Broadway to the centerline of Court Street; thence south along the centerline of Court Street to the centerline of the alley in Block 24 of Original Decorah; thence west along the centerline of said alley to an extension of the west line of Lot 2 in said Block 24; thence north along the west line, and extension, of said Lot 2 and extending to the centerline of West Broadway; thence west along the centerline of West Broadway to the centerline of the northsouth alley in Block 19 of Original Decorah; thence north along the centerline of said north-south alley to the centerline of the east-west alley in said Block 19; thence west along the centerline of said eastwest alley to the centerline of River Street; thence north along the centerline of River Street to the centerline of West Main Street; thence west along the centerline of West Main Street to the centerline of Mill Street; thence north along the centerline of Mill Street to the centerline of Heivly Street; thence west along the centerline of Heivly Street to an extension of the west line of Lot 4 of Hansen’s Addition; thence north along the west line, and extension of said Lot 4 to the north line of said Hansen’s Addition; thence east along the north line of said Hansen’s Addition to the east line of Block 7 of Central Addition, also being the west line in common with Lot 3 in the Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of said Section 16; thence north along the west line of said Lot 3 to the south line of the north 19’-8” of said Lot 3; thence east along the south line of said north 19’-8” of said Lot 3 and extending to the centerline of Mill Street; thence south along the centerline of Mill Street to an extension of the north line of Lot 1 of 2 of 9 in said quarter-qua1ter, also being the south line in common with Block 1 of Sutton’s First Addition; thence east along the north line, and extension of said Lot I of 2 of 9 and line in common, to the east line of said Block I of Sutton’s First Addition also being the west line in common with Lot 1 of 2 of 2 of 2 of 9 and Lot 2 of 1 of 2 of 3 of 2 of 2 of 9 in said quarter-quarter; thence north along the west line of said Lots and line in common, to the north line of said Lot 2 of I of2 of 3 of 2 of 2 of 9; thence east along the north line of said Lot to the east line of said

Lot; thence south along the east line of said Lot and continuing southwesterly along the east line of Lot 1 of 2 of 2 of 9 and Lot 2 of 1 of 1 of 9 all in said quarter-qua1ter and extending to the centerline of Heivly Street thence southeasterly and east along the centerline of Heivly Street to the centerline of State Street; thence north along the centerline of State Street to an extension of the north line of pa1t of Lot 29 and north line of Lots 31 and 31 1/2 in the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of said Section 16; thence east along the north line, and extension of said Lots to the east line of Riverside Avenue and the north line of South Avenue; thence east and no1theasterly along the north line of South Avenue to the point of beginning.

The proposed amendment to the Plan brings the property described above under the Plan and makes it subject to the provisions of the Plan. The amendment (1) covers the addition of the Property to the Urban Renewal Area; and (2) authorizes the unde1taking of new urban renewal projects in the Urban Renewal Area consisting of(a) providing tax increment financing support to Decorah Real Estate Fund LP in connection with the redevelopment of existing buildings into a mixeduse facility including upper story housing and ground floor commercial units; and (b) using tax increment financing to pay the costs of the City’s Downtown Revitalization Incentive Suppo1t Program. A copy of the amendment is on file for public inspection in the office of the City Clerk.

At said hearing any interested person may file written objections or comments and may be heard orally with respect to the subject matters of the hearing.

Keri Sand City Clerk Decorah(Iowa) Leader September 5, 2024

On September 20, 2024 at 4:00 p.m., a sale of personal property of Audreana Cappps and Warren Harvey will be held at unit #32, Store-it-Storage, 2340 East Ridge Rd., Decorah, IA. The item will be sold to the highest bidder who must be present. Item includes but not limited to fan, computer, men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, microwave, boots, shoes end tables, aquarium, basement shelving.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 5 & 12, 2024

Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors August 26, 2024 Minutes The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30 a.m.

August 26, 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 give updates on road projects.

The Board discussed the recommendation letter on the Full Bohr Dairy matrix application. They will consider this again at next week’s meeting.

John Beard met with the Board to comment on the appointment process for the County Conservation Board.

Members of the Veterans Affairs Commission met with the Board to present their recommendation for hiring an assistant in the VA office. They reviewed the procedures they used and recommended the hire of Britney Provost to the open position.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the hire. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to open the public hearing on the status of funded activities for the Festina Wastewater Treatment project. Diana Johnson, Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission, met with the Board to report the following: (a) A general description of accomplishments to date: The total project is approximately 75% complete. Accomplishments to date include: the ordering and receipt of all equipment, the installation of the large 10,000-gallon recirculation tank, the installation of the treatment units, the installation of the smaller 5,000-gallon discharge tank, and the installation of much of the piping and electrical (b) A summary of expenditures to date: The latest pay estimate is current through August 20, 2024, and indicates that Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) reimbursable expenditures to date are at $392,652.91 in terms of total project completed. This includes the expenditures of contractor work and related expenses of $383,371.79 and administrative expenditures of $9,281.12. The total CDBG expenditure requested-to-date is 52%. Of the total spent, grant funds received include $57,662 and local match expenditures include $334,990.

There is still $52,338 in grant funds available to draw down, which includes $50,486 in construction needs and administration of $1,852. (c) A general description of remaining work: The remaining work consists of the following: the installation of the UV system, piping and shelter, the placement of fill and road stone, the completion of wiring and piping, the startup of equipment and restoration (d) A general description of changes made to the project budget, performance targets, activity schedules, project scope, location, objectives or beneficiaries: Since the CDBG end date is set for October 31, 2024, and the project is currently at 75% completed, we will be requesting an extension until April of 2025 on the timeline of these funds. The county does not anticipate any changes in project scope, location, objectives, or beneficiaries and does expect all funds to be depleted by or before the newly requested anticipated CDBG deadline of April 30, 2025.

No written or verbal comments were received from the public. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously. Moved

by Vermace and seconded by Kelsay to approve the letter requesting an extension on the CDBG funding and to amend the contract with UERPC for additional administrative fees. Motion carried unanimously.

The Board discussed the status of the farmland lease. The lessor passed away, and the Board received a letter of termination from his estate. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to allow the estate/inheritors to continue the lease for the third and final year with no changes to the terms of the agreement, if they are willing, otherwise to open the lease up for bids by the public. Motion carried unanimously. The County Attorney will be consulted on the details of making this change if the estate/inheritors are interested.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to open the public hearing on the sale of the Smith Building. Motion carried unanimously with Vermace abstaining. No written or verbal comments were received. Moved

by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously with Vermace abstaining. Moved

by Kelsay and seconded by Vick to adopt resolution 25-09, approving the sale of the property, and to approve the Offer to Buy stipulating the details of the transfer between the County and NEIA Community Action Corporation. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote with Vermace abstaining.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting, the claims filed with the Board, and to accept and file the monthly report of the VA Commission. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to adjourn to 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 3, 2024. Motion carried unanimously.

ATTEST: Benjamin D. Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair, Board of Supervisors Claims 08-26-2024 General Basic Fund Alliant Energy, Utilities ....................3083.92 Mike Ashbacher, Services ...................300.00 Beaver Creek Graphix, Supplies .......1242.25 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service .........................345.62 Bodensteiner Implement Company, Services 182.94 Bruening Rock Prod, Materials...........942.97 Calmar Motors, Services.......................78.00 Casper Plumbing & Heating, Inc, Services ............................................657.08 Column Software PBC, Publications ..432.21 Copyland, Printing ..............................219.50 County Wide Plumbing, Services .......151.60 Decorah Ace Hardware, Supplies ...........5.20 Decorah Community Schools, Services ............................................187.70 Decorah Tire Service, Services ...........884.30 DecorahNews.com, Advertising .........576.00 Dell Marketing LP, Equipment ...........697.18 Drilling All Season Sports, Supplies...600.67 Elan Financial Services, Payment .....1081.25 FMC Landfill, Services .....................3233.45 Healthcare First, Services ...................111.02

Heron Consulting, Inc, Services .......1800.00 Faith Hlubek, Reimbursement ..............66.67 Huber’s Store, Supplies.......................139.79 IA Dept of Inspection & Appeal, Inspection .........................................100.00 Iowa DNR, Registration........................30.00 Iowa State University, Registration ....110.00 IROC Web Design Services, Services ..32.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies .............31.90 Mike Johnson, Camp Host ..................204.50 LA Communications, Inc, Advertising285.00 LetterWerks Sign City, LLC, Printing 320.00 Dr. Kevin Locke, Services ..................820.00 Luther College, Printing......................300.70 Lynch Dallas, P.C., Legal Services .....580.00 Mail Services, Services .....................7479.95 Martin Bros. Distributing, Supplies ....547.05 McKesson Medical Surgical, Supplies132.50 Mediacom, Services ............................252.58 Medico-Mart, Inc, Supplies ................378.87 Hanna Meyer, Reimbursement..............20.00 MH Equipment, Services ....................166.50 Microbac Laboratories, Inc., Services ..85.00 Midwest Computer Brokers, Inc., Services ............................................100.00 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities .......1716.45 Netsmart Technologies, Inc., Maintenance Agreement ................6893.42 Evan Neubauer, Reimbursement...........20.00 Northeast Iowa RC&D, Appropriation .................................2000.00 Northern Safety Co Inc, Supplies .......128.98 Brady O’Connor, Services ................1250.00 Quadient Fiance USA, Inc., Postage .2000.00 Carrie Quandahl, Services ..................120.00 Lacey Rogers, Services .......................240.00 Gregg Rude, Reimbursement ................20.00 Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services ......63.50 Barb Schroeder, Reimbursement ..........17.18 Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc., Services ..........................................9822.86 State Medical Examiners Office, Services ..........................................2398.00 Storey Kenworthy, Supplies................406.30 The Ossian Bee, Subscription ...............48.99 Thrifty White Pharmacy, Services ......726.25 US Cellular, Cell Service ....................292.28 Steve Vanden Brink, Services .............170.00 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service ............934.31 Weis Buick GMC, Services ................813.90 Windridge Implements, LLC, Parts ....660.69 Winn Co Treasurer, Services.............5272.00 WinnMed, Services ...........................2031.34 Wright Way Computers, LLC, Services ............................................101.89 Christopher Wuebker, Reimbursement .49.99 American Rescue Plan, .................................

AcenTek, Internet Service .................3000.00 Rural Services Basic Fund Alliant Energy, Utilities ........................21.21 Kevin Barth, Meeting............................50.00 Roger Bergan, Meeting .........................50.00 Bruce Bergsgaard, Meeting...................50.00 Daryl Bosma, Meeting ..........................50.00 Column Software PBC, Publications ....67.59 Elan Financial Services, Payment .........99.58 Carleton Haugen, Meeting ....................50.00

A-9

Larry Iverson, Meeting .........................45.00 Dale Johnson, Meeting..........................50.00 Danny Leidahl, Meeting .......................50.00 David Lensch, Meeting .........................50.00 John Lubke, Meeting ............................50.00 James Ludeking, Meeting .....................50.00 Birgitta Meade, Meeting .......................50.00 Tony Meyer, Meeting ............................50.00 Roger Nelson, Meeting .........................50.00 Kenneth Nordheim, Meeting ................50.00 Melissa O’Rourke, Meeting ..................50.00 Jeff Ode, Meeting..................................50.00 Jason Ryan, Meeting .............................45.00 Jeff Ryan, Meeting ................................45.00 Bruce Sersland, Meeting .......................50.00 Gary Smorstad, Meeting .......................50.00 Don Stromseth, Meeting .......................50.00 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service ..............36.70 J Wayne Wicks, Meeting .......................50.00 Winn Co Landfill, Fees .......................766.84 Secondary Road Fund Agvantage FS Inc, Propane.............52307.73 Alliant Energy, Utilities ......................359.14 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service..............................................111.55 Bruening Rock Prod, Materials.......28098.52 Calmar Courier, Publications ..............112.50 Carolan’s Ag & Repair, Services ......1271.53 City of Ossian, Utilities.........................20.88 City of Ridgeway, Utilities ...................29.26 Hovden Oil Co, Fuel .........................8243.57 Huber’s Store, Supplies.........................31.96 John Deere Financial, Supplies ...........142.21 K Construction, Services ................65038.74 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities .........972.84 NE Iowa Metalworks, Inc., Services ..407.50 Racom Corporation, Services .............533.84 Star Equipment LTD, Equipment........679.84 Total Tree Care, LLC, Services...........400.00 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service ............564.08 Vestis, Services .................................1316.10 Weis Buick GMC, Services ................648.47 Ziegler Inc, Services .........................1819.62 Co Conserv Capital Improv Fund Erdman Engineering, Services ..........7826.05 County Assessor Agency Fund Verizon Wireless, Cell Service ............760.88 E911 Surcharge Fund Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service ...........................37.10 CenturyLink, E911 Service ...................52.38 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities .........573.59 Emergency Management Comm Casey’s Business MasterCard, Fuel ....214.24 Napa Auto Parts, Supplies.....................31.88 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service ..............74.00 Winneshiek Co Health Ins Fund Midwest Group Benefits, Health Insurance ..........................20773.13 Midwest Group Benefits, Fees ............945.00 Wellmark, Insurance .....................135558.74 Grand Total ...................................402277.99 Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 5, 2024

the

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SPORTS

A-10 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Busy start

Grabbing hold by the fingertips...

Continued from Page A-12

Turkey Valley’s JD Kruse makes a shoestring tackle during Saturday’s game versus Fremont Mills at the West Des Moines stadium. The Trojans dropped the season opener 57-28 with Kruse scoring three of TV’s touchdowns. Comprehensive coverage to Friday’s game and all Turkey Valley sports is available in the Decorah Leader’s “sister” newspaper — the New Hampton Tribune. (Photo courtesy of Leah Kruse)

Coming up in area high school sports

Sept. 5 – SW/TV g/b xc at Charles City, 5 p.m.; SW vb at Crestwood/Waukon (V), 5 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Dec fb at West Delaware (9th/V), 5 p.m.; SW fb at North Butler (V), 7 p.m.; TV fb at Kee (V), 7 p.m.

Sept. 7 – SW/TV vb at New Hampton tnmt. (V), 8 a.m.; Dec vb at Charles City tnmt. (V), 9 a.m.; Dec g swim at Mason City invite, 10 a.m.

Sept. 9 – TV vb vs. Central Elkader (9th/JV/V), 5 p.m.; Dec fb vs. West Delaware (JV), 6 p.m.; SW fb at Central Elkader (JV), 6 p.m.; TV fb vs. Riceville (JV), 6 p.m.

Sept. 10 – Dec vb at Crestwood (9th/JJV/JV/V), 5 p.m.

Sept. 12 – Dec vb vs. Independence (9th/JV/V), 5 p.m.; TV vb vs. MFL MarMac/New Hampton (JV), 5 p.m.

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Lauren Holthaus sprints through the water in the 50-meter freestyle at Decorah’s season opener held at Luther College Thursday evening. (Photo by Becky Walz) Sophia Gardner, Molly Kuehner, Stella Pole, 2:31.07 200 free – 5. McKenzie Tollefson 2:33.15; 6. Reagan Lubahn 2:39.24; 8. Bridget Bentley 2:44.24 200 IM – 2. Schissel 2:27.76; 4.

Burns 2:40.33; 5. Kutz 2:43.60 50 free – 1. Bucksa 26.02; 2.

Sailor 27.12; 5. Grace Baker 29.07; 7. Anderson 30.53; Exhibition: Holthaus 29.33; Lubahn 31.28; Gesing 31.59; Becker 32.17; Peters 32.26; Tollefson 32.30; Demaray 32.43; Gardner 32.64; Kate Pattison 32.83; Bollinger 32.95; Ana Simon 33.34; Kuehner 33.66; Lickiss 34.73; Kinley Leliefield 35.64; Pole 37.01; Esme Cuevas 37.48; Margaret Hahn 37.51; Adalyn Farley 38.46 1 mtr. diving – 4. Ava Carolan 145.65 100 fly – 2. Sailor 1:06.58; 7.

Kuehner 1:36.79 100 free – 4. Baker 1:06.67; 6. Bentley 1:09.53; 8. Gardner 1:12.55; 10. Pattison 1:14.09; 12.

Pole 1:25.06; Exhibition: Simon 1:16.42; Hahn 1:23.79; Leliefield 1:25.57; Farley 1:26.18 500 free – 1. Bucksa 5:48.21; 3.

Kutz 6:33.28 200 free relay – 1. Sailor, Burns, Baker, Bucksa, 1:51.69; 4. Anderson, Bentley, Bollinger, Demaray,

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2:04.84; Exhibition: Lickiss, Cuevas, Hahn, Becker, 2:19.41; Kuehner, Farley, Gardner, Gesing, 2:38.50 100 back – 4. Holthaus 1:17.17; 9. Peters 1:33.47; 10. Bollinger 1:34.59; 11. Cuevas 1:44.00 100 breast – 2. Schissel 1:16.09; 4. Burns 1:17.98; 7. Gesing 1:26.69 400 free relay – 3. Baker, Bentley, Tollefson, Schissel, 4:27.76; 5. Kutz, Holthaus, Lubahn, Anderson, 4:37.79; Exhibition: Demaray, Simon, Pole, Peters, 5:22.98; Ericksen, Pattison, Leliefield, Farley, 5:36.02

Over the weekend After opening the season at home Thursday, the Vikings were back in the pool Saturday at Dubuque Senior in the Ram Relays. This invite is different from others in that all events are conducted as relays.

Cedar Falls was the champion with 118 points. Decorah finished sixth with 44.

Decorah’s best varsity finish was a pair of thirds in the

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200 medley and 300 breast relays. In the medley event it was Bucksa, Schissel, Sailor and Baker touching the wall in 2:04.18, while Burns, Bucksa and Schissel went 3:47.50 in the breast relay.

Burns and Sailor won the junior varsity 400 individual medley relay in 5:13.31. In the 400 free relay it was Ana Simon Stella Pole, Lauren Holthaus and Annika Becker claiming silver in the JV division in 5:16.06. Reagen Lubahn, Aubree Gesing and McKenna Demaray stopped in the clock at 2:13.11 in the JV 200 free relay to take home bronze.

Ram Relay team scores 1. Cedar Falls 118; 2. Bettendorf 81; 3. Cedar Rapids Kennedy 62; 4. Dubuque Senior 53; 5. Wahlert Catholic 51; 6. Decorah 44; 7.

Dubuque Hempstead 39 Varsity race results 200 medley relay – 3. Bucksa, Schissel, Sailor, Baker, 2:04.18 600 free relay – 7. Lubahn, Bentley, Tollefson, 7:52.20 400 IM relay – 4. Bucksa, Schissel, 4:59.99 200 free relay – 4. Baker, Sailor, Burns, Tollefson, 1:57.89 300 fly relay – 4. Bucksa, Kutz, Sailor, 3:36.84 1000 free relay – 7. Schissel, Kutz, 12:34.88 300 back relay – 7. Holthaus, Farley, Becker, 4:29.01 300 breast relay – 3. Burns, Bucksa, Schissel, 3:47.50 400 free relay – 5. Baker, Bentley, Tollefson, Lubahn, 4:34.89 JV race results 200 medley relay – 4. Holthaus, Pattison, Becker, Pole, 2:34.35 600 free relay – 5. Simon, Demaray, Hahn, 8:49.82 400 IM relay – 1. Burns, Sailor, 5:13.31 200 free relay – 3. Simon, Pole, Bentley, Demaray, 2:13.11 300 back relay – 4. Pattison, Peters, Lubahn, 4:24.08 300 breast relay – 3. Lubahn, Gesing, Demaray, 4:39.35 400 free relay – 2. Simon, Pole, Holthaus, Becker, 5:16.06

Heading west The Vikings will be back in competition at Mason City Saturday, Sept. 7, at 10 a.m.

Fast pace Continued from Page A-12 team. They had some things that we haven’t seen yet this year as far as two very active, strong middles and they ran a faster tempo offence,” said Coach Holthaus. “I thought Ellie (Rolfs) led our back row, and they dug the ball very well and gave our hitters a lot of chances to swing. We started very slow in set one but did respond to the pace after that.

Massman had another great night with 17 kills, 6 digs and went 7-for-9 from the service line with three aces. D. Thompson handed out 25 assists. Rolfs came up with 13 digs to lead the defense.

Stats vs. St. Ansgar Kills – Massman 17; Kerndt 5; Holland 4; D. Thompson 2; Edyn Bateman 1 Assists – D. Thompson 25; Rolfs 1; Holland 1 Blocks (assist-solo) – Wilson (1-1); Massman (0-1); Holland (10); D. Thompson (1-0); Bateman (1-0) Digs – Rolfs 13; D. Thompson 9; O’Reilly 7; Massman 6; Kerndt 4; Johanningmeier 3; Holland 1 Serving (success/attempts) – Johanningmeier (7-8); Rolfs (11-11); Massman (7-9); Holland (6-8); D. Thompson (6-8); O’Reilly (10-11) Aces – Massman 3; Rolfs 1; Holland 1; O’Reilly 1

Coming up The Vikes will compete in their first tournament of the season Saturday, Sept. 7, at Charles City at 9 a.m. Next week Decorah opens the conference season on the road against the Crestwood Cadets Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 7:15 p.m.

SPORTS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221 A-11

Season opener triangular falls away from SW

the match.

“Our girls were excited to open up the season and opening up against some strong competition gives us a great indicator on where we were at. We made some great strides throughout the evening and got settled in on both defense and offense.

We look forward to getting back in the gym for practice and getting set for our upcoming quad at Cresco,” said co-head coach Alex Smith.

South Winn will be at Crestwood in a quadrangular with the Cadets, Waukon and Central Elkader Thursday, Sept. 5, at 5 p.m.

Stats vs. Dunkerton Kills – Alyssa Holthaus 4; Addison Timp 4; Ivey Franzen 3; Bailey Kuennen 2; Ella Theis 1 Assists – Theis 9; Holthaus 1; Franzen 1 Blocks (assist-solo) – Holthaus (0-1); Bailee Frana (1-0); Kuennen (0-1) Digs – Chloe Wiltgen 5; Theis 2; Avery Luzum 2; Allison Hageman 1; Holthaus 1; Aubrey Hageman 1; Franzen 1 Serving (success/attempts) – Theis (8-8); Holthaus (6-6); Franzen (4-4); Al. Hageman (2-2); Wiltgen (3-4); Luzum (3-5) Aces – Holthaus 2; Theis 1

ABOVE: Addison Timp (14) and Alyssa Holthaus team up for a block against Hudson Thursday night.

RIGHT: Warrior senior Ivey Franzen looks to slam the ball by a Hudson defender for a kill. (Photos by Becky Walz) The South Winn volleyball team (0-2, 0-0 UIC) opened up the season at home on Thursday hosting a triangular against Dunkerton and Class 2A No. 12 Hudson. The Warriors fell short on the scoreboard, dropping both matches, but there was some high level volleyball played in the gym.

The Warriors dropped the

opening match to Dunkerton, 0-2. Set scores were 20-25 and 12-25. Alyssa Holthaus and Addison Timp paved the way with four kills each with Ella Theis dishing out nine assists.

Hudson then defeated Dunkerton two sets to one before the Warriors took on Hudson to finish the evening. South Winn battled the No. 12 team

in the state falling short in the two sets, 19-25 and 22-25. Ella Theis had 13 assists with Ivey Franzen leading the team with five kills in the match. Defense and serving were keys for the Warriors keeping it close. Chloe Wiltgen, Ella Theis and Allison Hageman combined for 35 digs and the team served 97.8 percent missing just one serve in

Stats vs. Hudson Kills – Franzen 5; Ad. Timp 3; Kuennen 3; Theis 2; Holthaus 2; Al. Hageman 1; Frana 1 Assists – Theis 13; Wiltgen 2 Blocks (assist-solo) – Holthaus (1-1); Frana (0-1); Ad. Timp (1-0) Digs – Wiltgen 16; Theis 10; Al. Hageman 9; Franzen 5; Holthaus 3; Au. Hageman 2; Luzum 2; Ad. Timp 1 Serving (success/attempts) – Al. Hageman (15-15); Theis (11-11); Holthaus (5-5); Au. Hageman (4-4); Franzen (3-3); Wiltgen (3-3); Luzum (4-5) Aces – Theis 1; Al. Hageman 1; Luzum 1

Just short; Warriors stopped by Starmont 15-14

The opportunity was there, but the South Winn football team (0-1) couldn’t seize the chance Friday night, falling to Starmont (1-0) in the opener, 15-14.

“We had our chances. Presnap penalties and ball security ended drives and hurt field position for us. The effort was there, but the execution at times was not on par with what we are capable of,” said Coach Jason Ohrt. “Starmont gave us the physical test we needed to get ready for district play starting next week. It will be important for us to get off to a cleaner start and to finish stronger than we did in the second half going forward.”

Oh so close The Stars struck first, marching down the field to the oneyard line and plunging over the goal line in the first period. The second quarter belonged the Warriors however, with Braiden Todd throwing a 24-yard strike to fellow sophomore Carson Streeter, then finishing a drive with a three-yard carry of the pigskin to give South Winn a 14-7 lead at the break.

In the third it was a 41-yard

carry by the Stars combined with a successful two-point conversion pass that was the downfall for the Warriors as South Winn failed to reach the end zone again to regain the lead.

Statistics Starmont had 195 yards on the ground and 67 through the air, while the Warriors picked up 116 on the ground and 64 through the air in the evenly-matched contest.

Kyle Kuboushek led the rushing attack with 81 yards on 19 carries. Todd kept the ball seven times for 31 yards, while Eric Greve provided 22 yards on the ground in five carries. The lone receiving target for Todd was Streeter who pulled down all six of the completions for 64 yards.

The defense was led by junior Ayden Palafox with seven solo tackles, while Kuboushek was there for six solo stops and Todd have five. Greve and Streeter each had one interception for the Warriors.

District play opens South Winn will hit the road again Friday, Sept. 7, as the War-

Carson Streeter looks for an open running path after taking the handoff from Braiden Todd against Starmont Friday night.

(Photo courtesy of Cathy Sabelka) riors open district play at. North Butler at 7 p.m. The Bearcats defeated Belmond-Klemme 14-8 in their season opener and defeated the Warriors last season 22-14.

South Winn Starmont

The Warrior defensive line begins its attack on the Stars in the season opener Friday night against Starmont. (Photo courtesy of Cathy Sabelka)

1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q 0 14 0 0 7 0 8 0

F 14 15

Scoring sequence 1st Quarter Starmont – 1-yard run (PAT) 2nd Quarter SW – Braiden Todd 24-yard pass to Carson Streeter (Streeter PAT) SW – Todd 3-yard run (Streeter PAT) rd 3 Quarter Starmont – 41-yard run (2-pt. pass conversion) 4th Quarter None

Game stats Total yards: South Winn 200; Starmont 252 Passing (comp/att/yds): Todd (6-8, 64 yds., 1 TD) Rushing (att/yds): Kyle Kuboushek (19-81); Todd (7-31, 1 TD); Eric Greve (5-22); Streeter (12); Yahir Macario (2-0) Receiving (att/yds/TD): Streeter (6-64, 1 TD) Tackles (total): Ayden Palafox (10.0); Todd (7.0); Kuboushek (6.5); Andres Macario (4.0); Ray Lienau (4.0); Greve (3.0); Streeter (3.0); Logan Tieskoetter (2.5); Tristan Bodensteiner (2.5); Gavin Feickert (1.5); Landon Livingood (1.0); Landon Humpal (1.0) Interceptions (no/return yds): Greve (1-15); Streeter (1-15) Punts (att/yds): Streeter (3-88) Kick-offs (att/yds): Streeter (3171, 2 TB, 2 PAT) Kick-off returns (att/yds): Greve (2-39), Streeter (1-8)

Clean sweep for Vikes Boys’ varsity team results 1. Decorah 65; 2. Denver 81; 3. Oelwein 94; 4. Waterloo West 121; 5. Jesup 139; 6. Vinton-Shellsburg 147; 7. Starmont-West Central 238; 8. Beckman Catholic 258; 9. West Delaware 262; 10. Columbus Catholic 262; 11. Sumner-Fred 288; 12. North Fayette Valley 321; 13.

Center Point-Urbana 332; 14. Crestwood 345; 15. New Hampton 395; 16. Wapsie Valley 407; 17. Waterloo East 443 Girls’ varsity team results 1. Decorah 89; 2. Sumner-Fred 93; 3. Center Point-Urbana 105; 4.

Denver 114; 5. Crestwood 137; 6. Jesup 150; 7. Union 194; 8. Wapsie Valley 224; 9. New Hampton 226; 10. West Delaware 239; 11. North Fayette Valley 247; 12. Vinton-Shellsburg 254; 13. Beckman Catholic 274; 14. Oelwein 338

Garrett See (left) and Mitchell Stemper pace each other during the varsity race at Oelwein Tuesday. (Photo courtesy of the Decorah Boys Cross Country Facebook page) With the first two meets of the season cancelled due to heat and severe weather concerns, the Decorah girls’ and boys’ cross country teams finally got their time to shine Tuesday in Oelwein with the varsity and junior varsity sweeping the team titles.

The Class 3A No. 10 varsity boys won comfortably finishing with 65 points over Class 2A No. 14 Denver’s 81 who took runner-up. Class 2A No. 7 Oelwein rounded out the top three with 94. For the girls it was a closer race with the Class 3A No. 13 Vikes winning with 89 points, just four points ahead of Class 2A No. 14 Sumner-Fredericksburg. With 105 points, Class 3A No. 18 Center Point-Urbana was a distant third.

In JV action, the Decorah boys had a perfect scorecard with a 15, claiming the top five spots, while the girls won with 21 points over Crestwood’s 52. Complete junior varsity results will be posted online by the Decorah Leader.

Zilka leads boys The top five Decorah harriers averaged 17:07 for their 5Ks with a spread of 55 seconds.

“This was a great start to the season as all the hard work was rewarded with great performances across the board,” noted Viking boys’ cross country coach Brad Johansen.

Grant Zilka picked up where he left off last season — as the Vikes leading harrier. The senior was the first Decorah runner to cross the finish line in 16:37.1, to take fifth. Davis Coppola toured the course in 16:55.1 to claim 10th. Producing a time of 17:11.5, D’mitry Lesser took 16th, while Landyn Hook came through in 17:22.2, good for 19th. Mitchell Stemper wrapped up the Viking scorecard in 20th with a time of 17:32.5. Thomas Hammel (21st, 17:34.6) and Garrett See (23rd, 17:37.8) were also on the course.

Girls on top While the girls squeezed out the title by just four points, the top five Vikes had an average time of 21:37 with a spread of 1:52.

“We were excited to watch the girls interact with each other. They brought positive attitudes and competitiveness to their runs. It was a good starting point for the team,” said Decorah girls’ cross country coach Cristy Nimrod.

Crossing the finish line in 20:27.9, sophomore Olivia Volkmann was the first Viking to do so in seventh. Brinlee Courtney raced her way to 19th with a time of 21:24.9, while Amelia Wadsworth claimed 22nd.

Wadsworth stopped the clock at 21:48.4. Lily Sandhorst and Deborah Hougen were close behind in 26th and 30th places, respectively. Sandhorst toured the course to a time of 22:05.2, while Hougen finished the 5K in 22:20.6. Also racing for the Lady Vikes were Natalie Stevens (49th, 23:00.1) and Grace Blikre (69th, 24:28.3).

Olivia Volkmann paced herself to a seventh-place finish Tuesday. (Photo courtesy of the Decorah Girls Cross Country Facebook page)

Coming up Decorah harriers now have time to recuperate and train before competing again at the Luther College All-American Race Saturday, Sept. 14, at 9 a.m.

Luther sports weekend round-up Women’s soccer The Luther women’s soccer team dropped the home opener to Concordia College (MN) 1-0 Friday. The Cobbers scored in the final seconds of the first half to defeat the Norse. Elisabeth Queoff had four saves and Ava Stemler led the team with three shots.

The Luther women’s soccer team fell to Whitworth University 3-0 on Saturday. Queoff had six saves. Miller led the team with three shots with two on frame.

Women’s cross country The Luther women’s cross country season kicked off at the St. Olaf Ole Opener on Friday.

Leading the team was newcomer Mia Lung as the Norse finished fourth overall as a team on the 5K course.

Lung finished 22nd with a time of 21:06.04. Completing the top-five included Norah McDonald (23rd, 21:06.08), Alyssa Blankenship (23rd, 21:06.08), Sarah Schmidt (25th, 21:06.13) and Lindsey Moseley (40th, 21:57.83).

Men’s cross country The Luther men’s cross country season kicked off at the St. Olaf Ole Opener on Friday. Michel Heinrich was the top finisher for the Norse as the team finished third overall with 89 points on the 5K course. Heinrich finished 18th with a time of 16:47.75. Completing the top-five included Jack Bode (19th,16:47.78), Kurt Lebakken (21st, 21:06.08), Christian Montover (35th, 17:17.58) and Benjamin Gillikin (36th, 17:17.77).

Volleyball The Luther volleyball team started its 2024 campaign on the road at the Ripon College Classic. In the first day of the twoday tournament the Norse fell in a five-set match to Illinois Tech (25-19, 23-25, 25-19, 25-27, 15-10) and reverse swept Ripon College (11-25, 23-25, 25-14, 25-21, 15-6) to begin the season 1-1. The Luther volleyball team finished the Ripon College Classic with a three-set loss to Marian University (20-25, 1925, 20-25) and a 3-1 win over

Martin Luther College (1525, 25-15, 26-24, 25-19). The Norse finish the weekend 2-2 overall. Emma Kowalczyk was named to the all-tournament team. Sarina Stortz entered the top 10 for career kills.

Men’s soccer The Luther men’s soccer team trailed after ClaremontMudd-Scripps (CMS) scored in the 19th minute but Rául Ferrandez would net the equalizer in the 56th minute. The game ended in a draw in the first ever

meeting between the two programs. Jack Bell made six saves in the game with five in the first half alone. Francesco Mungari led the team with two shots.

The Luther men’s soccer team lost their first game of the season to the University of Redlands 3-1 on Saturday. Luther is now 0-1-1 overall. The Bulldogs outshot the Norse 16-6 with an 11-2 advantage in shots on-goal. Jack Bell made eight saves in goal and Francesco Mungari and Javier Pastor Valls each had two shots.

SPORTS

A-12 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Vikings blow by Waukon 33-0 Big plays early on broke the game open for the Decorah football team Friday night in the season opener at Waukon.

With no touchdown play less than 29 yards, the Vikes dominated the gridiron to defeat the Indians, 33-0.

“This was a great team win for us. Our kids played very physical and with great effort all night. Our offensive and defensive line controlled the line of scrimmage and our skill positions made some explosive plays. We have things that we need to work on. We had too many penalties but overall a solid first game,” said Coach Mike Tangen.

to find the endzone for a second time. Decorah’s defense held against the Indians again on their next possession, setting up Bucksa to find Carter Dlhy for the next Viking touchdown strike with 4:24 remaining in the first period to give Decorah a 20-0 lead.

In the second quarter Tommy Sexton heard his number called as he weaved his way through traffic for a 37-yard touchdown run allowing the Vikes a 27-0 cushion at halftime. A sweep to Gavin Groux ended all scoring for either team with 27.6 seconds to play in the third giving Decorah the eventual 33-0 shutout victory.

How it went Three plays and 30 seconds into the game, Decorah’s Trevor Kuennen created excitement with a pick 6 from near the Waukon 30-yard line and set the tone for the first game of the season. The thrill of big plays was far from over as the Viking defense forced the Indians to go 3-and-out. Starting near midfield, Decorah needed just six plays and a 59-yard pass from Louis Bucksa to Peyton Webb

Highlights Decorah had 249 yards rushing and 119 passing for 368 total, while holding Waukon to just 155 yards.

Individually, Sexton rushed 13 times for 89 yards. Kuennen had 72 yards on the ground while Groux had 44. Bucksa completed 5-of-9 passes with one reception to Webb, Dlhy and Will Larson and two to Groux.

On defense, Gatlin Dahlberg

led the way with six solo and seven assisted stops. Groux, Luke Franzen and Keaton Orris all had three solo tackles with Franzen having a pair of sacks.

Kuennen had the one interception while Will Larson had one fumble recovery.

Up next Friday will be another battle as the Vikes head to West Delaware (0-1) . The Hawks fell to Western Dubuque 21-13 in the first week.

Decorah Waukon

1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q 20 7 6 0 0 0 0 0

F 33 0

Scoring sequence 1st Quarter Dec – Trevor Kuennen 26-yard INT (Brayden Wemark PAT) Dec – Louis Bucksa 59-yard pass to Peyton Webb (Wemark PAT) Dec – Bucksa 29-yard pass to Carter Dlhy (Wemark PAT failed) 2nd Quarter Dec – Tommy Sexton 37-yard run (Wemark PAT) 3rd Quarter Dec – Gavin Groux 42-yard run (Wemark PAT failed) 4th Quarter None Game stats Total yards: Decorah 368; Waukon 155

Cash Riehle (71) forges a path for ball carrier Tommy Sexton (22) against the Indian defense with Trevor Kuennen (15) coming to aid as well. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Carter Dlhy (14) hangs on to the Indian players as Jameson LaBelle (33) and Tanner Caddell (35) come to assist with the tackle. (Photo by Becky Walz) Passing (comp/att/yds): Bucksa (5-9, 119 yds., 2 TD) Rushing (att/yds): Sexton (1389, 1 TD); Trevor Kuennen (10-72); Groux (1-55, 1 TD); Tanner Caddell (2-18); Mason Avila (7-8); Bucksa (1-3); Dlhy (1-3); Archer Sims (1-1); Will Larson (1-0) Receiving (att/yds/TD): Webb (1-59, 1 TD); Dlhy (1-29, 1 TD); Groux (2-21); Larson (1-10) Tackles (total): Gatlin Dahlberg (9.5); Luke Franzen (3.5); Keaton Orris (3.5); Groux (3.0); Cash Riehle (3.0); Jackson Pipho (2.5); Dlhy (1.5); Kuennen (1.5); Larson (1.5); Sexton (1.5); Caddell (1.5); Bradan Darling (1.5); William Hahn (1.5); Jameson LaBelle (1.0); Anthony Putnam (1.0); Jared Pavlovec (1.0); Ian Giddings (1.0); Josh Adam (0.5); Hunter Quandahl (0.5); Webb (0.5); Avila (0.5); Henry Brynsaas (0.5) Interceptions (no/return yds): Kuennen (1-25, 1 TD) Fumble recoveries: Landon Quandahl 1 Punts (att/yds): Brayden Wemark (3-76) Punt returns (att/yds): Groux (114); Larson (1-13) Kick-offs (att/yds): Wemark (6348, 3 PAT) Kick-off returns (att/yds): Avila (1-28)

Decorah’s Henry Brynsaas looks to break up a pass thrown by the Waukon quarterback during Friday’s season opener. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Decorah netters picking up the pace Things are looking good for the Decorah volleyball team (21, 0-0 NEIC) early in this season with two wins under their feet in three matches.

Starting off the 200 individual medley with the butterfly was Naomi Kutz who went on to finish fifth for the Vikings Thursday. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Bucksa wins trio of golds in opener The Decorah swim and dive team opened the 2024 season last week with a pair of meets in three days with many new faces in the pool looking to contribute.

“We swam well against some very strong competition. We are a young team and that creates a lot of opportunities to get better each meet. We had two meets in less than 48 hours, I am impressed with how hard we competed on tired bodies – progress, not perfection,” said Coach Loran Storts.

Opening at home It was a busy night at the Luther College Natatorium as the Vikings hosted a double dual with Waterloo and Mason City.

Decorah defeated Mason City 101 to 80 and fell to Waterloo 106 to 77.

Liz Bucksa was the big winner of the night in the pool, winning a pair of individual races and teaming up for a relay win.

In the 50 free, the sophomore touched the wall a second faster than teammate Bella Sailor in 26.02 seconds. After winning the shortest race of the night, Bucksa went on to win the longest as she finished the 500 free in 5:48.21. She also anchored the 200 free relay to a gold. In

1:51.69, Sailor, Avalea Burns, Grace Baker and Bucksa won by more than three seconds.

The Viking also led off the runner-up finishing 200 medley relay. Bucksa joined her talents with Burns, Sailor and Jenna Schissel for silver in 2:00.01.

In addition to finishing silver in the 50 free individual, Sailor was the runner-up in the 100 fly as she stopped the clock at 1:06.58. Schissel, a freshman, took second in the 200 individ-

ual medley in 2:27.76 and the 100 breast in 1:16.09.

Race results 200 medley relay – 2. Liz Bucksa, Avalea Burns, Bella Sailor, Jenna Schissel, 2:00.01; 5. Lauren Holthaus, Liv Anderson, Naomi Kutz, Aubree Gesing, 2:45.95; Exhibition: Jena Peters, Addison Lickiss, Adeline Bollinger, McKenna Demaray, 2:25.98; Annika Becker,

Busy start

Continued on Page A-10

Pacing herself to a second-place finish in the 200-yard individual medley is freshman Jenna Schissel who also went on to grab silver in the 200-yard breaststroke. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Three sets After winning their opening match of the season Tuesday, the Vikings were geared up to do it again Thursday against another non-conference opponent.

Hosting North Fayette Valley, Decorah shut down the TigerHawks in three sets, 25-17, 2519 and 25-18.

The Vikes had 39 kills on 101 attack attempts. In addition, there were 37 assists, 52 digs and three total blocks and they served 64-for-73 with nine aces.

“NFV was a very scrappy team and their libero played well. It was sometimes difficult for us to find the floor with our swings but we played really good defense as well. Our serve receive again was good which allowed Dylin (Thompson) to move the ball around to our hitters. That balance allowed us to keep them guessing at times. Dylin and McKinley (Massman) again played well and worked hard for us at all times. Leah Holland had some big swings and was very effective at the service line. Sydney Thompson also stepped up last night and put some balls down from the right side which will help in the future to take some pressure off of McKinley and Kelby (Kerndt) on the other pin,” said coach Gina Holthaus.

Massman and Kerndt combined for 23 of the team’s 39 kills with Massman hammering down a team high 13 to go with 10 digs and a 13-for-15 serving performance. Holland and S. Thompson each pounded out seven kills. D. Thompson dished out 32 assists, while Ellie Rolfs was there defensively for 17 digs. Savannah O’Reil-

ly added nine digs and served 7-for-8.

Stats vs. NFV Kills –McKinley Massman 13; Kelby Kerndt 10; Leah Holland 7; Sydney Thompson 7; Renae Wilson 2 Assists – Dylin Thompson 32; Ellie Rolfs 2; Massman 1; Savannah O’Reilly 1; Wilson 1 Blocks (assist-solo) – Holland (1-1); S. Thompson (1-0) Digs – Rolfs 17; Massman 10; O’Reilly 9; D. Thompson 6; Holland 5; Sara Johanningmeier 4; Wilson 1 Serving (success/attempts) – Johanningmeier (13-14); Rolfs (45); Massman (13-15); Holland (1718); D. Thompson (10-13); O’Reilly

(7-8) Aces – Holland 4; Johanningmeier 2; D. Thompson 2; O’Reilly 1

Back at it The season is heating up for the Vikes as they faced Class 1A No. 9 St. Ansgar (7-2) on the road Tuesday night, surrendering the match to the Saints, 3-0. Set scores were 15-25, 2025 and 19-25.

“Saint Ansgar was a good

Fast pace

Continued on Page A-10

Leah Holland has her eye on the ball as she gets set to slam a kill from the back row while McKinley Massman covers for defense. (Photo by Becky Walz)

PUBLISHED THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 BY THE DECORAH LEADER | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ

Athletes step up as Vikings open 2024 football season A new generation of Vikings will take the field this fall for the red and blue, with a new head coach calling out the plays.

Having graduated many key contributors from last season, the Decorah football team will be composed of many new faces looking to get on a winning streak.

While Mike Tangen is the new head coach, he is no stranger to the program as he served as an assistant for nine years, first under Bill Post then with Pat Trewin who was at the helm for the last six seasons. He also played as a Viking, gradu-

ating in 2004 and continuing his career at Luther College.

“I am honored to have the privilege to help lead the Decorah High School Football program and am looking forward to build upon the rich history and success of all coaches and athletes who have helped make the program what it has become.

It is the hope of myself and the other coaches that we can continue to bring a level of passion and dedication to not only help the football program, but all activities at Decorah High School and most importantly serve the larger mission helping

our young people become successful adults after graduation,” said the new skipper.

Joining Tangen on the sidelines as assistants are Matt Kuempel, Brian Waskow, Jared Bucksa, Jesse Halweg, Josh Fenske, Greg Drew, Alec Zwanziger and Bruce Clark.

Reviewing 2023 Last season started on a high note for the Vikes with a trio of wins before Independence spoiled the run Decorah was on. The Vikes opened at home with a 32-6 victory over fellow NEIC squad Waukon, then

pounced on the West Delaware Hawks, 21-7. Making the short trek to Crestwood, the Vikes rolled over the Cadets, 34-6.

On the road against the Independence Mustangs, Decorah couldn’t control the tempo and gave up the game 21-7.

Homecoming was one of the highlights of the season as Decorah won 42-0 over Mason City to open the district race.

Then the Vikes spoiled Waverly-Shell Rock’s homecoming, 35-20. Back-to-back losses to Marion and Western Dubuque had Decorah fans wondering if the Vikes would be left out of

the postseason for the second year in a row. However, a 54-22 regular season win over Waterloo East secured the Vikes bid with a 3-2 district record.

Having spoiled the season North Scott was having in 2022, the Lancers repaid the favor in the first round of 2024 playoffs, knocking off the Vikings, 35-7.

For the season, the Vikes scored 250 points, averaging 25.0 points a contest. The varsity picked up 2,769 yards of total offense. The running game tallied 1,974 with 795 more coming through the air. The squad averaged 5.34 yards per play,

with 35 total touchdowns.

DHS history Decorah boasts a history of success having claimed a conference or district title 30 times.

Last year’s postseason appearances was the school’s 27th time – 1973, ’74, ’78, ’84, ’86, ’87, ’88, ’89, ’90, ’91, ’94, ’97, ’98, ’03, ’04, ’05, ’08, ’09, ’10, ’11, ’12, ’13, ’15, ’17, ’18, ’21 and ‘23. Former head coach Bill Post led the team into the playoffs 11

Stepping up

Continued on page B-2

Suiting up on the 2024 Decorah football varsity roster are (front row, l-r) Nick Lowery, Hunter Quandahl, Jameson LaBelle, Cash Riehle, Jackson Pipho, Gavin Groux, Gatlin Dahlberg, Louis Bucksa, Mason Avila, Will Larson; (second row) Hector Vargas Escobar, William Tallier, Kade O’Hara, Landon Quandahl, Caleb Johnson, Caleb Krieg, William Hahn, Keaton Orris, Kaden Tarwater, Bradan Darling; (third row) Ezra Harman-Wood, Tristan Baker, Jared Pavlovec, Archer Sims, Nathan Friend, Joshua Adam, Cain Monreal-Rice, Carter Dlhy, Tanner Caddell, Ian Giddings; (fourth row) Luke Franzen, Anthony Putnam, Henry Brynsaas, Brayden Wemark, Payton Webb, Trevor Kuennen, Tommy Sexton, Noah Milburn, Ryan Northup, Mason Vote; (back row) Bristol Parker (manager), Ethan Pole, Jared Bucksa, Assistant Coach Matt Kuempel, Assistant Coach Brian Waskow, Head Coach Mike Tangen, Assistant Coach Jesse Halweg, Assistant Coach Josh Fenske, Assistant Coach Alec Zwanziger and Jordan Sims (manager). (Photo by Becky Walz)

FALL SPORTS PREVIEW 2024

B-2 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Stepping up Continued from B-1 times (2003 as Decorah-North Winneshiek, ’04, ’05, ’08, ’09, ’10, ’11, ’12, ’13, ’15 and ’17 as Decorah).

Nine times the Vikes have landed in the state championship contest — 1974, ’87, ’88, ’89, ’97, ’04, ’08, ’11 and ’12.

They hoisted the trophy five times (1974, ’87, ’88, ’89 and ’12), with Post at the helm in 2012. He was the lead skipper in all four runner-up finishes.

Fragments of experience Leading the charge for 2024 are 19 returning letter winners.

The ringleader of the offense will be senior quarterback Louis Bucksa. The 6’0” veteran completed 60-of-126 passes for 675 yards. He had five passing touchdowns with 11.3 yards per completion mark.

Named first team all-district last year and second team as a sophomore, William Hahn will be back on the line for both offense and defense. In 2023, Hahn (6’2,” 272 lbs.) had 29 total tackles, including 23 solo stops and 3.5 tackles for loss.

Returning for his senior season at wide receiver and safety for the Vikes is Gavin Groux (5’10,” 170 lbs.) Earning a second team all-district nod last year, Groux reigned in 22 passes for 256 yards, an average of 11.6 yards per reception.

Additionally, he ran the pigskin for 138 yards on 29 carries, averaging 4.8 yards a touch. On the other side of the line, Groux produced 20.5 tackles (16 solo) with 1.5 tackles for loss with one interception.

Trevor Kuennen (6’2,” 187 lbs.) is back for his junior campaign at linebacker and running back. Defensively was second on the Viking squad as he wrapped up 46 tackles (32 solo) with and 2.5 tackles for loss and a pair of fumble ecoveries. Out of the backfield, Kuennen had just three carries that moved the

ball 23 yards. For his efforts, he was named second team all-district.

Gatlin Dahlberg (6’0,” 181 lbs.) at a linebacker position who tallied 36.5 tackles as a junior last season with 25 solo stops and 3.5 tackles for loss, a fumble recovery and an interception. Tommy Sexton returns as a running back and linebacker with 97 carries for 383 yards last season and 10 solo tackles and four assists.

Coach Tangen has numerous other players returning with a letter are seniors Josh Adam (6’5,” 185 lbs., WR), Braden Darling (6’1,” 180 lbs., OL/ DL), Caleb Krieg (6’2,” 176 lbs., CB), Keaton Orris (6’0,” 200 lbs., OL/DL), Jackson Pipho (5’1,” 158 lbs., WR/ CB), Hunter Quandahl (5’1,” 151 lbs., WR/DB), Cash Riehle (5’6,” 207 lbs., OL/DL), Brayden Wemark (5’11,” 175 lbs., K/P), and juniors Carter Dlhy (6’2,” 187 lbs. LB/H), Jameson LaBelle (5’11,” 151 lbs., long snapper) and Noah Milburn (6’5,” 204 lbs., TE/ DE).

“We graduated a number of starters on our offensive and defensive lines,” noted Coach Tangen. “This team will have a lot of juniors that will need to step up and get up to varsity speed quickly.”

Spots open Positions will be open this season, especially on the line as the Vikings graduated 19 seniors last year. They lost six players from the first and second team all-district lists.

At the top of the list is running back and defensive back Dakota Johnson (RB/CB) who was first team honoree in the district and All-State. He tallied 1,358 yards rushing, averaging 8.2 yards a carry and scored 21 touchdowns. Defensively he had 21.5 total tackles, two fum-

ble recoveries, an interception in addition to eight kick returns.

Brady Benzing (LB) led the Vikings defensively with 50 total stops including 34 solo tackles and three tackles for a loss to earn first team all-district honors.

Another first team honoree Kelley Gates (TE/DE) who graduated, pulled down five passes for 76 yards and had 19 total tackles. Also named first team all-district was lineman Andrew Rhodes who provided 27.5 total tackles.

To the second team were Brady Bohner (OL/DE) who had 15 total tackles and Kaiden Quandahl (WR/DB) who hauled in four receptions for 79 yards and scored twice with 22.5 total stops.

Also graduating were Cade Averhoff, Jeron Feuerhelm, Brody Hanson, Landon Kuennen, Creed Monroe, Kadin Remick, Joseph Stammeyer, Gunnar Sims, Will Teslow, Fisher Tweten, Jimmy Valdez, Kaiden Youngblood and Garrett Waskow.

Returning to the gridiron in 2024 with a letter for the Vikings are (front row, l-r) Gavin Groux, Jackson Pipho, Louis Bucksa, Cash Riehle, Keaton Orris, Jameson LaBelle; (second row) Cater Dlhy, Caleb Krieg, Gaitin Dahlberg, Brayden Wemark, Jordan Sims (manager); (back row) Tommy Sexton, Trevor Kuennen, Noah Milburn, William Hahn, Bradan Darling and Joshua Adam. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Decorah varsity football schedule

*All games start at 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 6 at West Delaware Sept. 13 vs. Crestwood Sept. 20 vs. Independence Sept. 27 at Mason City Oct. 4 vs. Waverly-Shell Rock Oct. 11 at Marion Oct. 18 vs. W. Dubuque Epworth Oct. 25 at Waterloo East

Decorah JV football schedule

Decorah freshman football schedule

Sept. 9 vs. West Delaware Sept. 16 at Crestwood Sept. 23 at Independence Sept. 26 vs. Mason City Oct. 3 at Waverly-SR, 6:15 p.m.

Oct. 14 vs. Marion, 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 17 at W. Dubuque Epworth Oct. 25 at Waterloo East, 5 p.m.

Sept. 6 at West Delaware Sept. 13 vs. Crestwood Sept. 20 vs. Independence Sept. 27 at Mason City Oct. 4 vs. Waverly-Shell Rock Oct. 11 at Marion Oct. 18 vs. Western Dubuque Oct. 24 vs. Caledonia, 6 p.m.

*All games start at 6 p.m., unless noted otherwise

*All games start at 5 p.m., unless noted otherwise

A bright future In the preseason, things look good for the Vikings. In addition to having good numbers throughout the high school level, Coach Tangen sees their depth and speed as strength for the squad.

“We have a lot of guys both young and old that will be able to contribute each Friday night,” said Coach Tangen. “We always have a tough schedule against a lot of great teams, but I think we will be competitive in each game.”

Western Dubuque has been a standard in the district according to the new skipper and will be the team to beat this season; however, he noted the parity in the rest of the league makes each Friday night important.

Suiting up on the Decorah football freshman squad are (front row, l-r) Michael Lowery, Andrew Bjork, Lucas Wymer, Kellen O’Gara, Matthew Burkholder; (second row) Ray Hayek, Jacob Kulish, Jacob Stevens, Davis Walter, Gavin Carolan, Kasen Tyler; (third row) Logan Fortman, Evan Roe, Brooks Dodd, Camden Kerner, Brayan Ortiz Gonzalez; (fourth row) Dawson Irons, Ethan Kuennen, Owen Larson, Breyden McCain, Brody Darling; (back row) Bristol Parker (manager) and Coach Alec Zwanziger. Not pictured are coaches Bruce Clark and Greg Drew. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Selected as captains for the Decorah varsity football squad were (l-r) Gavin Groux, William Hahn, Bradan Darling and Louis Bucksa. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Members of the sophomore Viking football team for 2024 are (front row, l-r) Reid Dahl, Thomas Davis, Michael Clement, Gavin Knutson, Karter Orris, Kash Turner, Gabe Monroe; (second row) Sawyer Courtney, Nathan Rhodes, Keaton Riehle, Thatcher Brown, Dakota Van Gundy, Landyn Quandahl; (third row) Drake Phillips, Carter Riley, Griffin Brauer, Blake Pattison, Parker Low, Brayden Miculinich; (back row) Coach Josh Fenske, Bristol Parker (manager) and Coach Jesse Halweg. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Luther football schedule

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Guiding the Decorah football team this season are coaches (front row, l-r) Assistant Coach Jesse Halweg, Head Coach Mike Tangen, Assistant Coach Alec Zwanziger; (back row) Assistant Coach Ethan Pole, Assistant Coach Brian Waskow, Assistant Coach Jared Bucksa, Assistant Coach Matt Kuempel and Assistant Coach Josh Fenske.

(Photo by Becky Walz)

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Sept. 14 at St. Olaf, 1 p.m.

Sept. 21 vs. Coe, 1 p.m.

Sept. 28 vs. Anderson University (IN), 12 p.m.

Oct. 5 at U. of Dubuque, 2 p.m.

Oct. 12 vs. Loras, 1 p.m.

Oct. 19 at Central, 1 p.m.

Oct. 26 vs. Nebraska Wesleyan, 1 p.m.

Nov. 2 at Wartburg, 1 p.m.

Nov. 9 vs. Buena Vista, 12 p.m.

Nov. 16 at Simpson, 1 p.m.

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Upper Iowa University football schedule Sept. 7 vs. Concordia (St. Paul), 6 p.m.

Sept. 14 at South Dakota Mines, 1 p.m.

Sept. 21 at Southwest Baptist University, 1 p.m.

Sept. 28 at Quincy University, 1 p.m.

Oct. 5 vs. Truman State, 6 p.m.

Oct. 12 vs. William Jewell, 1 p.m.

Oct. 19 at Lincoln U. of Missouri, 12 p.m.

Oct. 26 vs. U. of Indianapolis, 12 p.m.

Nov. 9 at McKendree University, 1 p.m.

Nov. 16 vs. Missouri S&T, 12 p.m.

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FALL SPORTS PREVIEW 2024 DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

B-3

Talented and versatile; Vikings have high expectations for 2024

Playing focused will be the key for the Decorah volleyball team in 2024.

With five returning letter winners and a host of young hopefuls ready to wear the red and blue, the Vikings have the experience needed to have a good season. Now it’s just a matter of putting it together and staying focused when the season starts.

Putting the team together is head coach Gina Holthaus who is in her 10th season guiding the squad. Assisting her will be Jackie Hoyme.

Working together The Vikings of 2023 featured four seniors — Maddy Fromm, Olivia Christopher, Sydney Kipp and Lydia Frank.

During the conference season, the Vikes went 2-8 overall and ended the year with a 14-18 mark.

Regional play began at home with Mason City with Decorah winning 3-1 (25-19, 23-25, 2518, 25-22). Then it was on to Xavier who ended the Vikes’ season 3-0 (11-25, 15-25, 5-25).

Through 91 sets, the Vikings had 720 kills and 2,493 attack attempts, averaging 7.9 kills per set. At the service line, the Vikes went 1,495-for-1,656, with 194 aces. Decorah athletes provided 675 assists, 1,182 digs and 128 total blocks (72 solo, 56 assists).

Ready to take the court in 2024 are Decorah sophomores, juniors and seniors including (front row, l-r) Jerikah Dodd, Annika Schmelzer, Sara Johanningmeier, Ella Stille, Edyn Bateman, Leah Holland, Savannah O’Reilly, Brynnah Hanson, Ellie Rolfs, McKinley Massman, Clara Hjelle; (middle row) Hadley Alexander, Marri Feuerhelm, Jasera Tweten, Chloe Medina, Kelby Kerndt, Jenna Leuenberger, Dylin Thompson, Sydney Thompson, Kaitlyn Bjork, Renae Wilson, Olive Klegseth; (back row) Coach Gina Holthaus, Stella Grinna, Hayley Baker, Kayley Baker, Macy Frank, Audrey Essa, Ayslynn Arnold, Kennady Riehle, Keatyn Krauskopf, Taya Snitker, Brylee Hanson and Coach Jackie Hoyme. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Defensive specialist Ellie Rolfs was named first team all-conference a season ago. She had 297 digs, averaging 3.3 per set. In addition, she served 267for-294 with 33 aces.

Earning a second-team nod from the NEIC, McKinley Massman (outside hitter) pounded 149 kills, putting up 1.6 per set. She also provided 79 digs and 10 blocks.

Leah Holland (middle hitter) led the Vikes in kills with 160, an average of 1.8 per set and was second in blocks with 29 (18 solo, 11 assists) to go with 75 digs. From the service line she had a 93.7 percent efficiency as she went 118-for-126 with 10 aces.

As Decorah’s second setter, Dylin Thompson is set to return to the court after dishing out 231 during her sophomore season.

She also provided 180 digs and served up 24 aces as she went 221-for-245. Kelby Kerndt was another force at the net last season, recording 99 kills and 11 blocks in addition to 46 digs.

Defensive specialist Sara Johanningmeier came up with 154 digs and was 92.3 percent from the service line (227-for-246)

Those graduated Four seniors factored in for Decorah last year.

Fromm was a second team All-NEIC honoree as she recorded her 500th career assist during the season. She provided a total of 299 during her senior campaign, along with 125 kills, 151 digs, 16 total blocks and served 219-for-260 with a teamhigh 49 aces.

Providing 89 kills, 32 digs and 20 total blocks (7 solo, 13 assists), Christopher, an outside hitter, was a member of the academic all-state team with Kipp.

Frank also took the court.

With a letter Coach Holthaus has six returning letter winners to rely on this season.

with 30 aces.

Looking ahead Seniors looking to make their way onto the court are Edyn Bateman (right side hitter), Brynnah Hanson (defensive specialist), Savannah O’Reilly (setter) and Ella Stille (defensive specialist).

“We are blessed to have a great group of young ladies returning to our gym,” said Coach Holthaus. “Our summer workouts were very well attended and several of our girls completed their lifting requirements with many of these girls also playing some type of club ball over the winter.”

Despite the talent, Coach Holthaus is looking for some initiative.

“As always, just getting the girls to buy in and work with each other and trust the process.

As mentioned before we have many returners but will also need to put some new people in as well. How quickly they fit in and work together will obviously be important,” she noted.

With the season opening last week, the Vikings will have their work cut out for them.

Coach Holthaus sees Charles City as the team looking to win the conference crown. However, if Decorah puts in the effort, the wins will come.

“I feel that we will compete with everyone in our conference. I would like to think that we can and will challenge for the top but that requires a day to day focused effort on skills and

working together. I’m excited to get into the gym with these ladies as they are fun to be around and love the game of volleyball. I am extremely hopeful that we will have a great season and feel good about our accomplishments at the end of the season.

It’s a special group of seniors who have really stepped up and played a lot of volleyball.”

Decorah varsity volleyball schedule

*All matches begin at 7:15 p.m., unless noted otherwise Sept. 7 at Charles City tnmt., 9 a.m.

Sept. 10 at Crestwood Sept. 12 vs. Independence Sept. 17 at Waverly-Shell Rock Sept. 24 vs. New Hampton Sept. 26 at Caledonia Sept. 28 host tnmt., 8:30 a.m.

Oct. 1 vs. Waukon Oct. 5 at Western Dubuque Epworth tnmt., 9 a.m.

Oct. 8 at Charles City Oct. 19 at NEIC tnmt. (Cresco), 9 a.m.

Returning letter winners on the Decorah volleyball squad in 2024 are (l-r) Sara Johanningmeier, McKinley Massman, Ellie Rolfs, Kelby Kerndt, Leah Holland and Dylin Thompson.

(Photo by Becky Walz)

Swimmers looking to rebuild for new season

Graduating a combined 24 athletes in 2022 and 2023, the Decorah girls swim team is focused on rebuilding the squad in 2024 with young and new swimmers to the sport.

Leading the relatively inexperienced team for the third season is head coach Loran Storts with Amy Schlake and Molly Holkesvik assisting him poolside.

Going to state Decorah’s 2023 squad featured 11 letter winners.

The Vikes pushed themselves all season long, dropping time and garnering first place after first place and were looking to defend their North Central Swim Conference title at home in October. However, their quest for a fourth consecutive crown fell short as NCMP won the meet 314 over Decorah’s 275 points. The Vikes’ Liz Bucksa won gold in a pair of individual events, while Joey Vobr and Bella Sailor took home silvers.

At the regional competition, Decorah’s Bucksa swam her way to state in the 50-yard and 500-yard individual freestyle events, while the 200-yard medley relay of Sydney Thompson, Avalea Burns, Sailor and Bucksa put together a time that gave them a state bid.

In the final swim of the season, the Vikings were unable to put points on the board in Marshalltown despite dropping times from their qualifying swims.

swimmers this season are new to the team and will look to the returnees for guidance. Among the top letter winners back are Bucksa, Burns and Sailor with state experience. Joining the trio at conference were Grace Baker, Annika Becker, Bridget Bentley, Ava Carolan, Aubree Gesing, Margaret Hahn, Lauren Holthaus, Naomi Kuta, Reagan Lubahn, Isis Timm and McKenzie Tollefson.

The Decorah coach is also excited for the newcomers including Liv Anderson, Adeline Bollinger, Esme Cuevas, McKenna Demaray, Allia Erickson, Adalyn Farley, Sophia Gardner, Molly Kuehner, Kinley Leliefield, Addison Lickiss, Kate Pattison, Jenna Peters, Stella Pole, Jenna Schissel and Ana Simon to experience the competition in

Ready to step up Fifteen of the Vikes’ 29

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Back in the water for 2024 with a letter are (front row, l-r) McKenzie Tollefson, Naomi Kutz, Ava Carolan, Avalea Burns; (back row) Bridget Bentley, Reagan Lubahn, Grave Baker, Liz Bucksa and Bella Sailor. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Decorah girls swim schedule *Home meets are held at Luther College

Sept. 7 at Mason City, 10 a.m.

Sept. 14 at Waterloo West, 12 p.m.

Sept. 17 vs. Cedar Rapids Kennedy, 6 p.m.

Sept. 24 at Waterloo West, 6 p.m.

Sept. 28 at Cedar Rapids Kennedy, 9 a.m.

Oct. 5 at Cedar Falls, 9 a.m.

Oct. 8 at Linn-Mar, 6 p.m.

Oct. 19 at Conference (Grinnell), 12 p.m.

Oct. 24 at Algona, 5:30 p.m.

Nov. 7 at Regional Diving (TBA), 6 p.m.

Nov. 9 at Regional Swimming (TBA), 12 p.m.

Nov. 15-16 at State (Marshalltown), 6 p.m./12 p.m.

Diving into the 2024 season as members of the Decorah girls swim and dive team are (front row, l-r) Addison Lickiss, Sophia Gardner, Bridget Bentley, Naomi Kutz, Adeline Bollinger, Liv Anderson, Adalyn Farley, Jenna Schissel, Ana Simon, Jena Peters; (middle row) Ava Carolan, Kinley Leliefield, Allia Ericksen, McKenna Demaray, Avalea Burns, McKenzie Tollefson, Molly Kuehner, Esme Cuevas, Isis Timm, Margaret Hahn; (back row) Assistant Coach Molly Holkesvik, Reagan Lubahn, Lauren Holthaus, Liz Bucksa, Annika Becker, Stella Pole, Kate Pattison, Grace Baker, Bella Sailor, Aubree Gesing, Assistant Coach Amy Schlake and Head Coach Loran Storts. (Photo by Becky Walz) Come Grow With Us!

Decorah • 382-5592 | Waukon • 568-3130

the pool.

“We have the necessary speed up front plus depth in all events this season. We are young this season with two-thirds of the team being freshmen and sophomores, which means we will only improve as the season progresses. The girls have already demonstrated early in the season that they are willing to put in the hard work to accomplish team and individual goals,” said Coach Storts.

As the season gets underway, the Viking skipper noted, “We will stay focused on the little things like being consistent in practice, good nutrition and hydration and getting adequate rest. If we trust the process, we will be a very strong team once the championship season gets here.”

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B-4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

With veteran experience, Viking harriers aiming for return to state and top-three finish The core will be strong for the Decorah girls cross country team this fall.

In addition to four athletes back with state experience, the Vikings also will feature a team with depth.

In her 23rd season as the head coach is Cristy Nimrod.

Getting to state With 14 returning letter winners in 2023, Decorah had the depth to make a run at the Northeast Iowa Conference title and a state bid.

During the regular season, the Vikes had several underclassmen come on strong and fight for a spot on varsity.

Decorah ran away with the conference crown, scoring 43 points and crowning Amelia Roe as the individual champion. Waverly-Shell Rock wasn’t too far behind in second with 65. Five athletes — Roe, Brinlee Courtney, Grace Brynsaas, Amelia Wadsworth and Olivia Volkmann — earned all-conference honors by placing in

Lacing up the running shoes to compete on the Decorah girls’ cross country team in 2024 are (front row, l-r) Kamryn Steines, Amelia Wadsworth, Lily Sandhorst, Ella Carlson, McKenzie Riley, Emily Myers, Grace Blikre, Kathy Muj, Natalie Goodner, Elsa Johnson, Kealy Hines; (second row) Kaya Johnson, Leah Garcia-Prats, Claire Ko, Lillian Dahlen, Riley Christopher, Simone Downing, Raelyn Newhouse, Evelyn Opheim, Kylie Lemke, Nora Lesmeister, Deborah Hougen, Jillian Volz, Addison Quandahl, Natalie Holthaus, Ariana Albert; (third row) Coach Sarah Nowack, Rachel Weis, Rachel Spilde-Maki, Ellie Adams, Grace Huinker, Alandra Mercado-Arneson, Willow Blair, Kennedy Carlson, Eva Hurley, Sophia McGee, Charlotte LaBelle, Poppy Bellrichard, Olivia Rissman, Lauren Svertson, Vivian Searcy, Morgan Miculinich, Coach Molly Holkesvik; (back row) Coach Jeff Wettach, Camryn Quandahl, Claire Storhoff, Drew Zwart, Kyra O’Hara, Olivia Huinker, Natalie Stevens, Brinlee Courtney, Lulu Bellrichard, Regine Hougen, Myla Leitz, Nina Sessions, Teagan Menke, Olivia Volkmann, Marley Harmening, Ava Hanson, Brinley Quandahl and Coach Cristy Nimrod. Not pictured is Maggie Gavle. (Photos by Becky Walz)

Decorah girls returning with a varsity letter winner are (front row, l-r) Ariana Albert, Nora Lesmeister, Deborah Hougen, Vivian Searcy, Olivia Volkmann; (middle row) Ellie Adams, Natalie Goodner, Natalie Stevens, Grace Blikre; (back row) Kamryn Steines, Lulu Bellrichard, Brinlee Courtney, Elsa Johnson, Amelia Wadsworth, Lily Sandhorst and Kealy Hines.

the top 15.

At the state-qualifying meet in Clear Lake, the Vikes were determined not to get shutout of the state meet for a third straight year and earned a runner-up finish behind the host with 75 points to punch their ticket to state. Roe and Courtney also advanced as individuals in the top 15.

It was a good run at state as the girls placed 11th in Class 3A. Roe concluded her year in ninth overall and seventh in the team standings to earn a spot on the deck.

Decorah had a strong group of athletes graduate last year.

Among them were Brynsaas and Dani Losen. Brynsaas con-

cluded her career in 96th overall while Losen was 81st. Also graduating were Brynn Storhoff, Elayna Hook, Kathryn Kelly and Abbie Volkosky.

Working hard Coach Nimrod will first look at her three returning athletes who raced at state last year.

Brinlee Courtney returns to compete for a second trip to state. Last year as a freshman, she was 51st overall (80th in team standings) in 20:43.7.

Wadsworth finished 93rd overall (64th) in 21:01.6. Volkmann capped off her freshman campaign in 103rd (71st) in 21:05.5.

“The freshman class comes into the season looking strong

as they had a good summer of training and appear to be ready for the season,” said Coach Nimrod. “That combined with a strong group of seniors who are great leaders who lead by example and have a positive attitude should lead to success.”

A look into the season Coach Nimrod believes her squad should come into the season as a favorite to win the Northeast Iowa Conference crown again but it will be important to stay healthy and focused.

“I always look forward to the season,” she said. “This group came in prepared and are will to push hard.”

Decorah boys aspire to improve upon a tradition of excellence in 2024

The Decorah boys cross country team is looking to return to the big stage in 2024 after getting left out as a team at state the last two seasons.

The high quality of depth and experience could make the battle at the varsity level a competitive one for the Vikings, according to head coach Brad Johansen, who enters his ninth season at the helm with Tim Hayes as his assistant.

Making the most of 2023 Eight letter winners looked poised to make some noise in 2023, eventually finishing second at the Northeast Iowa Conference to Waukon and boasting five All-NEIC athletes. Grant Zilka paced the Vikes with a sixth-place finish, with Garrett See not far behind in ninth.

D’mitry Lesser crossed the finish line 10th, followed by Landyn Hook in 12th and Hen-

ry Weis in 14th.

At the state-qualifying event in Clear Lake a week later, Decorah harriers finished fourth with 111 points and an average time of 17.42, missing a bid to state. Finishing 12th, Zilka earned a coveted individual ticket to Fort Dodge to represent the Vikings. See just missed his chance as he crossed the finish line 17th. Weis capped off his high school career in 23rd, while Lesser took 28th. Hook completed the Viking scoring in 31st.

In Fort Dodge, Zilka made the most of his 5K race, touring the course in 16:53.8, good for 38th overall.

Following graduation in May, Coach Johansen will be without several members that were leaders for the Vikings in 2023, including Lucas Arendt, Doug Bentley, Peter Essa, Lucas Hanson, Montana Jump-Ger-

leman, Alex McGohan, Aidan Nalean-Carlson, Travis Nordheim, Nathan Swarbrick, Adam Walter and Henry Weis.

Returning letter winners on the Decorah boys’ cross country team are (front row, l-r) Jack DelaRosa, Kyan Oftedahl, Kelton Casterton, D’Mitry Lesser, Spencer Christensen, Garrett See, Liam Huang; (back row) Grant Zilka, Riley Berns, Reid Berns, Max Grimstad, Davis Coppola, Tommy Hammel, Landyn Hook, Oliver Bollinger and Mitchell Stemper. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

With experience Coach Johansen will have a host of athletes back with talent and experience. At the top of the list are his four all-conference performers. Joining the quartet will be JV all-conference honorees Jack DeLaRosa (1st, 18:13.8), Mitchell Stemper (3rd, 18:27.8), Liam Huang (4th, 18:28.8), Max Grimstad (5th, 18:46.1) and Kyan Oftedahl (6th, 18:48.7).

“Our mental toughness in the middle of the race will determine our overall success,” said Coach Johansen.

NEIC breakdown Decorah will have its hands full when it comes to getting the top spot in the NEIC. “Every team in the league has at least one very high quality runner. The team that can put seven on the course will be the champion,” said Coach Johansen. “I like our chances to put seven talented runners out on the course. Many runners have put the time in last spring running and this summer training.

Staying healthy and injury free will be our limiting factors this season. When we are healthy and injury-free, we will be a top-notch Class 3A team.”

Decorah cross country schedule *All meets are co-ed

Lacing up the cleats for the 2024 season for the Decorah boys’ cross country team are (front row, l-r) Weston Cote, Keagan Steines, Dylan Brincks, Jayven Neubauer, Logan Nalean-Carlson, Oscar Grimstad, Oak Pashe, Derek Hrdlicka, Kelton Casterton, William Fullhart, Noah Potvin, Nils Peterson, Pranav Caton; (middle row) Coach Brad Johansen, Garrett See, Grant Zilka, Spencer Christensen, Liam Huang, Oliver Bollinger, Kyle Pattison, Bennett Coppola, Reid Berns, Andrew Olson, D’Mitry Lesser, Mitchell Stemper, Colin Thompson, Oscar Swanson, Zander McConnel, Coach Tim Hayes; (back row) Jack DelaRosa, Van Bassford, Ezra Vorvick, Tommy Hammel, Beau Newhouse, Landyn Hook, Carson Bohner, Kyan Oftedahl, Max Grimstad, Davis Coppola, Riley Berns, Max Goodner, Evan Madsen, Will Robinson, Gavin Wilkins, Wyatt Birdsell and Clarence Nimrod. Not pictured are Phuong Doan, Esteban Fernadez and Owen Rix. (Photo by Seth Boyes) 110 Court St., Decorah 382-3227 friest.com

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Sept. 14 at Luther All-American Race, 9 a.m.

Sept. 19 at Cedar Falls, 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 24 at Waukon, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 3 at Western Dubuque Epworth, 4:15 p.m.

Oct. 8 at South Winn, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 15 host NEIC (at Luther), 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 23 at Districts/Regionals (TBA), 4 p.m.

Nov. 2 at State (Fort Dodge), 12 p.m.

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FALL SPORTS PREVIEW 2024 DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

B-5

Warrior spikers deep in veteran experience; aiming for UIC crown

year, the Warriors are hungry for the top spot. The co-head coaches foresee North Fayette Valley being the top contender once again with an abundance of experience returning and having gone undefeated in the league a season ago.

“We hope to once again put ourselves in a position to compete for a conference title while developing as the season goes along to play our best come postseason,” Coach Smith concluded.

SW volleyball schedule

Donning the jerseys for the 2024 in the South Winn volleyball program are (front row, l-r) Izzy Goltz, Emmy Gehling, Grace Jansen, McKenna Looby, Jadrienne Langreck, Gabby Cline, Brinley Linderbaum, Sophia Dvorak; (second row) Bailey Kuennen, Ella Theis, Vanessa Bullerman, Hayden Steffens, Kenna Stanley, Charlotte Hageman, Claire Becker, Maya Lensen, Helen Frana, Kennedi Vagts, Alayna Hageman, Alyssa Holthaus; (third row) Gracie Humpal, Aubrey Hageman, Addison Timp, Allison Hageman, Avery Luzum, Kali Kleve, Jayden Timp, Chloe Wiltgen, Alyssa Timp, Ellie Knutson; (back row) Coach Glenna Munuswamy, Coach Darcy Einck, Natalie Klimesh, Bailee Frana, Alexis Johaningmeier, Kelsey Timp, Briana Boyer, Kiara Bullerman, Britney Hageman, Ivey Franzen, Abby Wagner, Charlotte Moonen, Coach Alex Smith and Coach Ethan Adams. (Photo by Becky Walz) The South Winn volleyball team should be loaded this fall.

With nine returning letter winners, the Warriors have the experience needed to have a good season with a handful of hopefuls ready to wear a varsity jersey, it should be another entertaining season in the gym for the red and white.

Looking to make the Warriors into a team to beat is fifth-year coach Alex Smith with Ethan Adams stepping in as his cohead coach for his first season.

Looking back A line-up that returned six letter winners in 2023 worked hard to incorporate the talents of the youth.

The Warriors went through phases of wins and losses throughout the season, ultimately finishing second in the Upper Iowa Conference with a 7-1 mark.

The season came to an end in the first round of the playoffs, with the Warriors falling to Beckman Catholic 0-3 (9-25, 10-25, 21-25).

South Winn ended the season 17-11 overall.

As a team, the Warriors served 1,325-for-1,487, for an 89.1 percent serving efficiency with 202 aces. In 78 sets, they produced 607 kills, along with 495 assists, 829 digs and 115 total blocks (34 solo, 81 assist).

Those gone The Warriors graduated three players from last year. Katrina Hageman, an outside hitter, was named first team all-conference last year. She had 219 kills, 192 digs and served 202for-226 with 43 aces. Avery Humpal had 83 kills, 136 digs and served with 92.9 percent efficiency (234-for-252) with 22 aces. Humpal received All-UIC second team honors for her efforts. Rachel Meyer saw action in 31 sets, going 24-for-25 in serving and made 16 digs.

What it takes The co-head coaches have nine returning letter winners to look to this season.

Junior setter Ella Theis handed out 245 assists and nabbed 79 digs last season. Earning a second team all-UIC nod, Theis also went 249-for-289

at the service line with 36 ace serves. Ivy Franzen and Avery Luzum were named honorable mention by the UIC last season during their junior campaigns.

Franzen, an outside hitter, recorded 90 kills and 34 blocks, while Luzum dished out 202 assists and served up 31 aces as she went 171-for-198 in serving.

Also back with a letter are Alyssa Holthaus (OH, 15 kills), Chloe Wiltgen (DS, 141 digs, 155-for-179 with 26 aces), Kiara Bullerman (RS, 41 kills), Bailee Frana (MH, 12 kills), Allison Hageman (OH, 55 digs), Addison Timp (RS, 43 kills).

Unfortunately, an injury during softball has sidelined Abby Wagner returning for her senior campaign after she earned first team All-UIC honors last season.

“We have a lot of excitement within our program and lot of depth to work with having 40 players out for high school volleyball,” said co-head coach Smith. “We should have a number of options to consider at all positions in the varsity lineup and have great competition

amongst our players in practice. We will have to get more creative with our lineups to fill the Wagner’s void, but we have a number of players returning with varsity experience and we are confident they will all take

their level up and settle into their roles as the season moves along.”

UIC race Having finished runner-up in the Upper Iowa Conference last

*All matches begin at 5 p.m., and are 9th/JV/V unless noted otherwise Sept. 5 at Crestwood/Waukon (V), 5 p.m.

Sept. 7 at New Hampton tnmt. (V), 8 a.m.

Sept. 16 at Decorah/Kee (JV), 5 p.m.

Sept. 17 vs. Kee Sept. 21 at Central Elkader tnmt.

(JV), 8:30 a.m.

Sept. 21 at Nashua-Plainfield tnmt.

(V), 9 a.m.

Sept. 24 vs. North Fayette Valley Sept. 26 at Postville Sept. 28 at Decorah tnmt. (V), 8:30 a.m.

Oct. 1 at Turkey Valley Oct. 3 vs. MFL MarMac Oct. 5 at Sumner-Fred tnmt. (JV), 9 a.m.

Oct. 8 at Central Elkader Oct. 10 at Clayton Ridge Oct. 12 at Decorah tnmt. (JV), 8 a.m.

Oct. 15 vs. West Central

Leading the way for the Warrior volleyball with a letter are (front row, l-r) Allison Hageman, Ella Theis, Chloe Wiltgen, Avery Luzum; (back row) Bailee Frana, Kiara Bullerman, Addison Timp, Ivey Franzen and Alyssa Holthaus. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Back with authority; South Winn returns six from state runner-up team The foundation is set for the preseason Class 1A No. 2 South Winn girls cross country team with six returning athletes from last year’s Class 1A runner-up team.

Guiding the two squads are Kevin Kearney and Scott Conway who are both in their 31st seasons with the cross country program.

Ready for another go The return of six of seven scoring runners at state will put a target on the Warriors’ backs throughout the season.

“Our other four girls had a great spring track season and look to factor into this season,” said the coaches. “One thing we are proud of over the past eight years or so is that we have had a very deep teams every year. Almost every year, we have No. 7, 8, 9 runners that could be scoring runners on almost every small school team in the state. This team has the potential to be that kind of team once again.”

Besides the six returnees, others looking to make it onto the course in varsity competition are senior Katie Shimek; juniors Addy Conway, Tessa Phillips and Cloey Zweibohmer.

Big things in 2023 The Warriors returned a core group of runners with experience in 2023.

Times continued to improve throughout the season, culminating with South Winn claim its fourth straight Upper Iowa Conference title and had six all-conference runners. At Central Springs a week later, the Warriors won the state-qualifying meet.

The freshman duo of Annie Hageman and Ava Franzen finished with personal best times and punched individual tickets to the state meet l by finishing in the top 10.

Fueled by determination, the Warriors entered the state meet ranked third and knew it would be a close race to the deck. In the end it was a second place finish for South Winn, marking the fourth season in a row the Warriors were on the deck at state. Posting a time of 20:27.0, Maddy Jansen led the way for the Warriors with a 33rd place overall finish (12th in team standings), followed by Hageman in 38th (16th) in 20:30.4. Franzen brought home 40th (18th) in 20:33.6 with Josie Tieskoetter crossing the finish line in 75th (35th) in 21:12.6. Tieskoetter was the first Warrior female to be a contributing member of the four trophy-winning seasons. Izzy Kuboushek concluded the SW scorecard in 85th (42nd) while Karissa Wenthold (95th, 51st) and Lauren Ondrashek (58th, 103rd) also raced.

Graduating off the team from last season were Tieskoetter, Aubrey Willey and Josie Tollefsrud.

An outlook While the coaches are excited with the return of the experience, they are concerned about the girls staying healthy.

In addition, the veteran coaches said the team graduated key leaders from the squad each of the last several years, and the success of the team has been the result of new athletes stepping up to fill those leadership positions to help boost the performance of their teammates.

“We are off to a good start with that again this season, which is really important to our success later in the season,” the skippers said.

The potential to be competitive is there for the Lady Warriors as they will likely battle North Fayette Valley and MFL Mar Mac for the Upper Iowa Conference crown. Both squads return strong runners and will add in some talented freshman according to Coach Kearney and Coach Conway.

TOP PHOTO: Members of the 2024 Lady Warrior cross country team are (front row, l-r) Addy Conway, Lauren Ondrashek, Annie Hageman, Ava Franzen, Karissa Wenthold; (back row) Tessa Phillips, Katie Shimek, Cloey Zweibohmer, Maddy Jansen and Izzy Kuboushek.

BOTTOM PHOTO: Seeking another trip to the state cross country meet from last year’s South Winn girls’ cross country team are letter winners (l-r) Karissa Wenthold, Maddy Jansen, Izzy Kuboushek, Annie Hageman, Ava Franzen and Lauren Ondrashek. (Photos by Becky Walz)

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FALL SPORTS PREVIEW 2024

B-6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Looking to gain experience; Warriors return nine starters on small squad The defense will lead the way for the South Winn football team in 2024.

With a new quarterback and some new athletes on the offensive and defensive lines, the Warriors will be a little green when they take the field for the first time. However, nine veteran starters may give South Winn an edge in the district.

Overseeing the team hungry to bring home a district title is Jason Ohrt who is entering his 18th season as the head coach of the Warriors. His has a career mark of 110-64 and will be assisted by Mike Wenthold, Justin Izer and Carter Wenthold.

Student managers are Carson Straube, Shaun Barta and Earl Lienau.

Solid finish The Warriors looked set to make a run in 2023 with 11 returning starters including a pair of all-district honorees.

They were off to a rocky start with a trio of losses to Starmont, North Butler and Wapsie Valley.

It was against Newman Catholic where things turned around for the Warriors with a 27-20 win. South Winn celebrated homecoming with a 16-12 win over AGWSR, then spoiled the homecoming celebration 22-14 at Nashua-Plainfield. The regular season capped off the 5-0 run with wins over North Tama and BCLUW, allowing the Warriors to finish second in the district and earn a postseason bid.

East Buchanan spoiled the fun

Suiting up for the South Winn football team in 2024 will be (front, l-r) Aydan Palaox-Schultz, Eric Greve, Jackson Goltz, Tristen Bodensteiner, Braiden Todd, Carson Streeter, Kyle Kuboushek, Ray Lienau, Andres Macario, Yahir Macario; (second row) Logan Tieskoetter, Brandon Kriener, Landon Humpal, Elliot Monroe, Landon Livingood, Gavin Feickert, Kolton Brummond, Cody Bodensteiner, Shayde Wermers; (third row) Jackson Hemesath, Steven Andera, Andy Acahua, Ayden Hovden, Adam Schmitt, Jordan Einck, Camden Bullerman, Ethan Oyloe, Brennan Franzen; (back) Carson Straube (manager), Earl Lienau (manager), Coach Mike Wenthold, Coach Jason Ohrt, Coach Carter Wenthold, Coach Justin Izer and Shaun Barta (manager). (Photo courtesy of Zak Kriener/Ossian Bee) in round one, 46-3.

For the season, South Winn picked up 2,414 total yards, with 1,859 on the ground and 555 through the air. They average 4.76 yards per play. The Warrior defense piled up 347 total tackles (249 solo) and 60.5 tackles for loss.

Starting lineup Coach Ohrt and the rest of the coaching staff won’t be starting from scratch. They have 11 re-

turning letter winners, including nine with starting experience, four of whom were all-district honorees last season.

Three starting seniors lead the way. Offensive and defensive lineman Tristen Bodensteiner (5’10,” 200 lbs.) saw action last season, providing 14 solo tackles and 7 assists. He helped the offense pick up 2,414. For his efforts, he was named first team all-district.

Also named first team all-dis-

Returning to the Warrior gridiron with a letter are (front, l-r) Tristan Bodensteiner, Carson Streeter, Braiden Todd, Kyle Kuboushek, Shayde Wermers; (back) Brandon Kriener, Aydan Palaox-Schultz, Eric Greve, Yahir Macario, Ray Lienau and Logan Tieskoetter. (Photo courtesy of Zak Kriener/Ossian Bee)

trict was then-sophomore Kyle Kuboushek. As a lineback and running back, Kuboushek (5’10,” 175 lbs.) was second on the Warrior squad with 57 total tackles (36 solo). On offense, he ran for 821 yards on 197 carries, averaging 4.2 yards a touch.

Carson Streeter (6’3,” 200 lbs.) will fulfill a variety of roles as he did last year — tight end, defensive end, linebacker, kicker and punter. A first-team all-district honoree last year, he caught 24 passes for 278 yards, averaging 11.6 yards per reception. Defensively, Streeter had 24 solo stops and 15 assists, two interceptions and a fumble recovery. As a sophomore last season, he provided 33 kickoffs for 1,653 yards, was 3-for6 in field goals and 12-for-18 in PATs, in addition to 20 punts that sailed a total of 673 yards.

Calling out the signals will be Braiden Todd as he steps into the role as quarterback but may also be seen as a running back on offense as well as a linebacker on defense. A second-team all-district honoree last year, Todd had 23 total tackles (17 solo, 13 assists) and 4.5 tackles for loss. He recovered two fum-

bles and had one interception.

Offensively he carried the pigskin 26 times for 60 yards.

Other athletes back with a letter include seniors Yahir Macario (5’9,” 175 lbs., RB/ LB), Shayde Wermers (6’2,” 220 lbs., OL/DL); and juniors Ray Lienau (6’6,” 230 lbs., OL/DL) and Brandon Kriener (6’0,” 165 lbs., TE/DL).

Making their mark Several athletes will be pushing for a starting spot vacated by graduated athletes.

Juniors making noise early in the preseason are Eric Greve (6’2,” 150 lbs, RB/DB), Aydan Polafox-Schultz (5’11,” 215 lbs., OL/LB); and sophomores Kolton Brummond (6’1,” 255 lbs., OL/DL), Landon Humpal (6’0,” 185 lbs., RB/LB), Landon Livingood (6’1,” 155 lbs., RB/DB) and Gavin Feickert (6’0,” 170 lbs., RB/LB).

A bright future Even with very low participation numbers, the Warriors return a solid nucleus of experienced starters and rotational starters. Coach Ohrt believes the squad’s greatest strength

will be the special teams led by Streeter.

“Despite early and late season injuries to multiple seniors last fall, we were able to tie for second place in the district. We feel very capable of competing for a district title if we can stay healthy this fall,” said Coach Ohrt.

SW varsity football schedule

*All games start at 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 at Starmont Sept. 6 at North Butler Sept. 13 vs. Wapsie Valley Sept. 20 vs. Newman Catholic Sept. 27 at AGWSR Oct. 4 vs. Nashua-Plainfield Oct. 11 vs. North Tama Oct. 18 at BCLUW

SW Junior Varsity football schedule

*All games start at 6 p.m.

Sept. 3 at Starmont Sept. 9 at Central Elkader Sept. 16 at Riceville Sept. 30 vs. Postville Oct. 7 at Turkey Valley

Small but mighty squad for SW boys Freshman will have a big impact on the South Winn boys’ cross country team this fall.

With more than 50 percent of the team comprised of first-year harriers, it will be a trial by fire experience for the Warriors this fall.

Helping the team grow will be Co-Head Coaches Scott Conway and Kevin Kearney, both in their 31st season.

Good efforts The 2023 squad was a small one with just three returning letter winners.

There were highs and lows throughout the season that saw the Warriors finish with an average time of 19:40 in third at the UIC meet. Senior Abe Conway and sophomore Brad Dahl finish near the front in fourth and fifth respectively to earn all-conference honors.

At the Class 1A state-qualifying meet a week later in Central Springs, South Winn finished eighth in the team standings but cheered as Conway punched an individual ticket to state in 10th place with a time of 18:01.9.

Dahl capped of his season in 16th (18:25.5), while Weiss was 47th (20:29.2). Bo Wangsness concluded his high school career in 49th (20:30.6) with Brennan Franzen rounding out the scorecard in 59th (20:48.0).

Others on the course for SW

were Diego Flores (71st, 21:52.4) and Eli Higgins (76th, 22:38.0).

Ready to race Left to pick up the pieces are Brad Dahl and Lukas Weiss to lead the young Warrior squad.

According to the coaches, both made big gains this spring in track and look to carry that into this cross country season.

John Donovan will make his return to the courses after an injury sidelined him for his junior campaign. Juniors set to race are Diego Flores and Eli Higgins, while freshman eyeing a spot to make a difference are Clayton Kuboushek, Levi Feickert, Myles Greet, Hugh Conway, Cameron Einck, Caden Tieskoetter, Matthew Donovan and Henry Lensing.

“This season is all about gaining experience and helping the freshmen work into high school training. We may start out a little slower but have the potential to consistently improve and build strength over the season. If we can do that, we can develop into a strong team by the end of the season,” said the coaches. “This is one of largest groups of freshmen we have ever had. Half the battle in cross country is simply having athletes willing to come out and work hard. So, the fact that this group is excited about running at a young age is a great

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What lies ahead With the boys team young, the season will be about getting them experience and helping them improve throughout the season.

“Learning how to train, how to compete at longer distances and working together as a team will be our main focus,” said Coach Conway and Coach Kearney. “It will take a little patience, but the guys like running, have some talent and are hard workers.”

That said, the Warriors likely will contend for a top 4 or 5 spot at the Upper Iowa Conference meet come later this season. The talented squads of North Fayette Valley and Central Elkader could prove to be the best of the league while MFL MarMac and Clayton Ridge had young teams last year and gained experience.

SW cross country schedule *All meets are co-ed

Sept. 5 at Charles City, 5 p.m.

Sept. 14 at Luther College All-American, 9 a.m.

Sept. 19 at Central Elkader, 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 26 at Central Springs, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 5 at Crestwood, 10 a.m.

Oct. 8 host invite, 5 p.m.

Oct. 17 at UIC invite (Elkader), 4 p.m.

ABOVE: Ready to race for the South Winn boys cross country team in 2024 are (front row, l-r) Levi Feickert, Clayton Kuboushek, Matthew Donovan, Myles Green; (middle row) Lukas Weiss, Cameron Einck, Hugh Conway, John Donovan; (back row) Caden Tieskoetter, Henry Lensing, Eli Higgins and Brad Dahl. Not pictured is Diego Flores. RIGHT: Returning to the course with a letter for the Warriors are (lr) Eli Higgins and Brad Dahl, along with Diego Flores who is not pictured. (Photos by Becky Walz)

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