September 26, 2024

Thursday, September 26, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 39 www.decorahleader.com

Decorah, Iowa 52101 email: editor@decorahleader.com

Learning outside the classroom

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Northern lights make for mighty nice night

Outdoor program offers students environmental education opportunities

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

Decorah’s fourth grade students are taking a walk on the wild side this week during the School of the Wild — a program developed by the University of Iowa’s College of Education to provide students with meaningful outdoor learning experiences which develop a sense of awareness and appreciation for the natural world.

“Today, many students spend less time outdoors than we did years ago, largely due to the increased amount of screen time,” said Decorah Community Schools Associate Elementary Principal Dana Bockman. “I remember being outdoors from dawn to dusk until mom yelled that it was time to come home.

Programs like School of the Wild help students explore and interact with their surroundings, fostering a lifelong love of nature.”

From Sept 23 through Sept.

26 Decorah fourth grade students were offered learning opportunities at Dunning’s Spring, Ice Cave, Van Peenan Park and the Decorah Community Prairie.

Lessons at each location were led by fourth-grade teachers, Winneshiek County Conservation staff and local experts.

“One of the key benefits of this program is that it promotes

School of the Wild

continued on page 13

Alaina Otto used several small scale models of animals to visually demonstrate eras in the Earth’s history during an educational session near Ice Cave in Decorah. (Photos by Seth Boyes)

Linda Kirkeberg and a student look over a map showing the Mississippi River after discussing tributaries during an outing to Dunning’s Spring on Monday.

Photos submitted

Students took notes as they travelled the length of a rope representing the Earth’s history. The students were then able to step inside nearby Ice Cave to see the layers of limestone and other features.

Colorful ribbons of color rippled across northeast Iowa’s sky last week. Dawson Bauer captured the aurora borealis — also known as the northern lights — at about 10:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 16 in the 2400 block of 235th Avenue west of Decorah. The phenomena occurs when electrons from outer space move down the

Earth’s magnetic field and collide with atoms in the planet’s upper atmosphere, according to information from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“The collisions produce light much like how electrons flowing through gas in a neon light collide with neon and other gases to pro-

duce different colored light bulbs,” NOAA said on its website.

The northern lights are centered on the planet’s magnetic pole, according to NOAA, but the effect can be seen farther south if the disturbance of the Earth’s magnetic field is significantly strong.

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com City approves two programs to assist downtown development

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER

The Decorah City Council is taking steps to support residential development and assist business owners with improvements in the historic downtown area. The council recently ap-

proved two separate economic incentive programs.

The Decorah City Council voted Sept. 16 to support the developer of three buildings on Water Street through tax increment financing assistance.

A trio of buildings, including the 150-plus-year-old Anund-

sen Publishing building, purchased in 2022 by Rebound Partners development group, which started development in the buildings’ upper stories earlier this summer. The group’s plan for a 10-apartment complex on the upper levels was slated to be complete no later

than the beginning of 2025, but the buildings were deemed blight structures.

Subsequently, the city council voted to provide Rebound with the TIF assistance to ensure completion and maintenance of the project. Decorah’s total TIF commitment will not

exceed $350,000 over a period of five years — legal and administration fees will be capped at $10,000. The incentives are available to the upper-level residential space only and do not include the lower level commercial space.

Rebound Partners, which

also owns Decorah’s Fairfield Inn and Hotel Winneshiek, has participated in several historic hotel rehabilitation projects in the region. Earlier this year,

Development continued on page 3

Keeping kids in classroom is goal for new absenteeism laws

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER The Decorah Community School District is taking steps to adjust its attendance policies in response to a recent change in state law.

“Attendance is a shared responsibility among students,

parents and the school, and any absence can disrupt learning,” Decorah Superintendent Tim Cronin and assistant Winneshiek County Attorney Charles W. Crain said in a joint letter, which was recently sent to district families. “Regular attendance is crucial for your child’s success and ensures they receive the full

VOTE DEC 10 A voice for the people that listens to the people Paid for by Klocke for Decorah Committee

benefit of our educational program. It also prepares students for success in the future.”

The new law — Senate File 2435 — was signed into law

by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds in early May after passing through both the Iowa House and Senate on April 18 — with lawmakers voting 32-13 in the Senate and

52-43 in the House.

The Decorah School Board met in special session Sept. 18 to conduct the first reading of new board policies regarding compulsory attendance, chronic absenteeism and truancy. Cronin said chronic absenteeism is defined as a student missing specific tiers and thresholds.

School officials noted there is now no distinction between excused and unexcused absences under the new law.

“While Decorah Community Schools can view family trips and vacations as excused absences locally, Iowa law requires these days to be counted toward chronic absenteeism

calculations,” the district’s letter to families said.

The new state law requires districts to identify students who have missed 10 percent of a given grading period. If a

Absenteeism continued on page 12

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DECORAH

The Decorah Community School District celebrated homecoming last week. The Vikings won their homecoming football game over Independence, 21-14. ABOVE- Decorah cheerleaders (from left to right) Sonya Trosper, Karlee Bullerman, Sierra Jump-Gerleman and Ava Bahr got the crowd in high spirits during the parade.

BELOW- Young Viking fans showed plenty of spirit as they awaited the start of the homecoming parade Friday afternoon. (Photos

by Roz Weis) A B O V E - The band played the Decorah Vikings fight song as they marched down Water Street to the delight of parade-goers of all ages.

LEFT- Will Hahn, the son of Brent and Amanda Hahn, and McKenzie Riley, the daughter of Adam and Jessica Riley, were crowned Decorah High School’s homecoming king and queen.

INSET LEFT- Members of the class of 1979 Katie Feid and Kathy Ellingson. ABOVE- Varsity football parents waved from their homecoming float.

SOUTH WINNESHIEK Britney Hageman and Irving Flores were crowned the South Winn Homecoming Queen and King.

The SW sophomore class went with a Halloween-themed float for the parade.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Kurt Straube and Rhonda Todd were named the teacher King and Queen by the South Winn student body. Izzy Olson. Jamison Zweibahmer works to get the wheels going on his tractor during the Ag Olympics at the pep rally Friday. Brad Dahl (throwing the bag) was one of many high school and middle school students competing in the bags tournament during the Warrior Tailgate for homecoming Friday in Calmar. (Photos by Becky Walz)

NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

3

Bachmurski granted Decorah man charged with earlier trial date attempted murder

Former Decorah man expected to face murder charges in early December

The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office released a statement Tuesday saying a Decorah man has been charged with attempted murder and other offenses.

The sheriff’s office responded to a disturbance involving weapons at approximately 11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Sept. 21 at a location along 170th Avenue in Freeport.

The sheriff’s statement said 22-year-old Hunter Youngblood of Decorah was subsequently charged with attempted murder, willful injury, harassment, serious assault and domestic abuse/ assault. The sheriff’s office also said Youngblood was airlifted from WinnMed in Decorah with what was described as self-inflicted injuries. The sheriff’s statement said no other details were expected to be released at this time.

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR A former Decorah man accused of murdering a teenage girl in 2017 is expected to have his day in court before the year’s end.

Court documents show 65-year-old James David Bachmurski is now scheduled to face a jury on Dec. 9, after invoking his right to a speedy trial earlier this month — the case was previously scheduled to go to trial in mid-March of 2025.

Bachmurski was extradited from Georgia earlier this summer and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail on June 20, for separate charges, and he was served a warrant for the murder of 15-year-old Jade Colvin the next month.

Colvin was officially reported missing to the Des Moines Police Department in June of 2016, and the U.S. Marshals Service took up the case in December of 2020 as part of a statewide initiative called Operation Homecoming — the teen’s disappearance was one of more than 29 cases included in the operation. Investigators believed Colvin had come to northwest Iowa’s Winneshiek County prior to her disappearance and, by May of 2022, the U.S. Marshals had identified a number of individuals to interview regarding the missing teen. The case was turned over the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office following the interviews, and a local investigation was immediately launched with aid from the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Winneshiek County Attorney’s Office, according to the sheriff’s office.

Investigators believe Colvin’s mother brought the teen to Iowa from Arizona in the early spring of 2017 to live with Bachmurski at his rural residence south of Decorah. A criminal complaint filed against the 65-year-old said he had allegedly considered contacting law enforcement while Colvin was at his home but felt “if he had alerted law enforcement that he had a runaway girl at his house, it would not have turned out good for him.”

Bachmurski had previously pleaded guilty to harassment and willful injury of his own family years earlier. The local sheriff’s office had received reports at that time the then 54-yearold Bachmurski was regularly abusing his sons — criminal complaints in that case claimed Bachmurski had on at least one occasion, used ratchet straps to tie his son to a metal chair “and shocked him multiple times on the arm with an electric fence charger.” The complaints went on to say 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 was prohibited from possessing weapons as part of that case’s outcome, but a sheriff’s deputy discovered a scoped .223 caliber Stevens rifle in a closet during a welfare/ probation check at Bachmurski’s home in January of 2019 — almost two years after Colvin had disappeared.

Investigators in the Colvin case 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 in Colvin’s disappearance said the teen had “extensive conversations with

James David Bachmurski

Jade Marie Colvin

(Photo Courtesy Iowa Department of Public Safety)

friends her age,” and “they planned to communicate immediately after her arrival in Iowa in late 2017,” according to court documents. Bachmurski told investigators the teen’s phone had no service upon arriving at his property south of Decorah, and the now 65-year-old let Colvin use his phone — which court records indicate was examined by law enforcement.

“The messages sent by Jade Colvin from the defendant’s cell phone during the early morning hours of March 30, 2017, were the last messages ever known to be received by any person,” a criminal complaint said.

Court documents said Bachmurski allegedly lied to investigators at some point, saying Colvin had gone elsewhere after her final recorded text, and he 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 March of that year, according to court documents, and the son observed Colvin’s property — such as her travel bags and suitcase — at the farmhouse “a few months after Jade Colvin was gone.”

Bachmurski failed to appear in 2019 for a court hearing related to his unlawful possession of the Stevens rifle, and court documents indicate he had stopped communicating with his attorney by February of that year.

“It is possible that the defendant has moved out of state, and his intentions to return are unknown,” the defense wrote at that time.

Investigators were able to interview Bachmurski in 2023, according to court documents — other court records obtained by the Decorah Leader show Bachmurski was residing in Swainsboro, Georgia, by early February of 2021. He was served a warrant on June 20, 2024, for his possession of the Stevens rifle in Winneshiek County. The 65-year-old was eventually transported from the Emanuel County Jail in Georgia to the Winneshiek County Jail and was later served a warrant in the murder case on Aug. 12 — more than seven years after Jade Colvin disappeared.

Correction: Sept. 19, 2024, Decorah Leader

An article entitled “Because we walk” Local teams raise funds for Alzheimer’s Association” inaccurately stated a quilt, auctioned in support of the association’s Aug. 14 walk, was sold in honor of the late Pam Hansen, who is in fact still living. Staff regrets the error and thanks the family for quickly bringing the error to the newspaper’s attention last week.

Development continued from front the city also approved a historic preservation tax credit for the developer, aimed at ensuring Rebound preserved the character and historic features of the trio of buildings during its renovation project.

The Downtown Economic Development Grant Program was also approved at Monday’s meeting. Under this program, business owners can receive financial help from the city to aid renovations and repairs which improve the visual appeal of downtown buildings and maintain historic character. Eligible projects include awning installations, facade projects such as brickwork and painting, structural repairs like roofing, masonry and foundation work, and accessibility improvements like ramps or the widening of doors.

The city will reimburse businesses applicants $1 for every $3 spent on an approved project, with the city contributing a maximum of $10,000.

The program also offers grants to support interior renovations for upper story residential conversions — the city offers the same 1-3 reimbursement rate up to $25,000. Major renovations like plumbing and electrical as well as safety upgrades and energy efficiency improvements all qualify for the grant.

All projects must be located in the downtown Decorah area, and applicants must be the property owners or long-term leaseholders with at least five years remaining on their leases.

A public hearing regarding the proposed TIF assistance will be held Oct. 7. No public hearing is required for the city’s grant program.

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A tractor-trailer rig passes under the Pleasant Avenue overpass on Iowa Highway 9 in Decorah. Multiple resurfacing projects have taken place along that stretch of highway since its installation in 1968, and the past work has ultimately elevated the highway to the point that the overpass is too low for certain semis. As a result, some semis have been rerouted through Decorah city streets. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Highway 9 through Decorah to be reconstructed in 2026

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Iowa State Highway 9, which passes through southern Decorah, will be getting a major facelift in 2026.

The Iowa Department of Transportation recently announced road crews will be reconstructing Highway 9 from its intersection with Iowa Highway 52 to just past the Pleasant Avenue overpass — a little more than a mile to the east.

The project is estimated to run from spring until fall of 2026.

“We are going to lower the highway in that area to improve the clearance under the bridge,” said IDOT District 2 Field Services Coordinator Pete Hjelmstad. “It was built to design standards at the time, which have now changed to allow for more clearance. Resurfacing of the highway did reduce the clearance over the years.”

Decorah City Engineer John Hjelle said, because of the now-lower overpass, semi traffic has been rerouted through Decorah’s downtown in recent years, which has resulted in downed traffic lights — especially at the intersection of Water and Mechanic Streets. Hjelle believes that problem has been fixed, but he said regular semi traffic still wears down road surfaces over time.

Iowa Highway 9 didn’t always wind south of Decorah.

During the 1930s, the highway still passed through the heart of the city — running down Water Street. When state officials at that time proposed the highway be shifted a few blocks south,

members of the Decorah Chamber of Commerce voiced their opposition, saying “it would be a very serious blow to Decorah business,” according to archives housed at the Winneshiek County Historical Society.

State plans at that time would have seen the highway run along Broadway Street from Mechanic Street on the west to Montgomery Street on the east before turning south again near the former Decorah Hospital — which exists as the Smith Building today and houses the Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation.

Public sentiment regarding Highway 9’s route through Decorah seemed to have changed by the late 1960s. Truck traffic was “creating an annoying uproar” in downtown Decorah, according to an editorial published in the July 22, 1968, Public Opinion. The newspaper staff said Broadway and Water Street were bearing most of the east-west highway traffic as vehicles made their way through “the peaceful little capital city of Iowa’s scenic wonderland.”

“City residents visiting in Decorah often make the observation that Broadway and Water Streets are noisier than many of the busiest streets of their cities,” the staff wrote. “It is to be hoped the new Highway 9 bypass will remove this nuisance from our town. When completed, Highway 9 will reroute traffic around the southern outskirts of Decorah.”

Local papers reported on the progress of the new highway over the next few years, and the final stretch of the new highway

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officially opened in late December of 1969. Hjelmstad said the Pleasant Avenue overpass was also completed that year, and the 2026 project calls for more substantial work than what has been done in the past.

“The age and condition of the pavement called for a reconstruction project compared to a resurfacing project,” Hjelmstad said. “This project was included in our statewide 2025-2029 Transportation Improvement Program approved by the Iowa Transportation Commission in June of this year.”

Hjelmstad said portions of the highway within the work zone will be reduced from four to two lanes during construction — maintaining one lane of traffic in each direction. The estimated cost of the project is $7.15 million, which Hjelmstad said will be paid for by the Iowa DOT through its transportation fund.

“When completed in the fall of 2026,” he said, “this project will result in a new and smooth ride for traffic that uses this stretch of highway.”

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OPINION

4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

State’s solution for chronic school absences needs some more work

It’s hard to blame state legislators for trying to do something about chronic school absences, but I don’t know that lawmakers hit the nail on the head this time around.

Now, I typically try to be a bit

BY SETH cautious when forming opinBOYES ions on academia these days.

News Editor After all, Gwen Stefani’s “Hollaback Girl” was still at the top of the charts the last time I sat in a high school classroom. It’s all That said, it’s probably safe too easy for any one of us to as- to assume that’s not the type of sume we understand what goes scenario state lawmakers had in on in a modern school building mind when they drafted Senate just because we ourselves were File 2435. More likely, they once seated at a desk in a (let’s were aiming to stave off the all admit it together) not-so- classic hooky scenarios (though modern classroom. in talking with teachers over the But I do think school atten- years, I have been surprised by dance isn’t viewed quite the how often parents plan extendsame among today’s families ed family vacations during the as it was in years past. It prob- academic year), and tamping ably wasn’t a sudden transition down on all that’s a worthwhile either. effort in my opinion.

You see, I recall something The problem is the state’s that happened in my own high approach is its lack of distincschool. This was the early tion between excused and unex2000s — it took forever to com- cused absences, which seems to pose a text message, bundles of have the potential to catch othCDs clung to the sun visors in erwise straight-laced students our cars and frosted tips were in an overly broad net. still a thing (not for me, I wasn’t The decision to treat all that cool, trust me). school absences the same strikes Anyway, an admittedly me as an odd decision just four high-performing student in years after a global pandemic in the grade below me was going which students were sometimes around collecting signatures told to quarantine themselves from her teachers so she could for 14 days at a time. But again, attend an extra-curricular event I think it’s a safe assumption the next day — it was mock tri- the legislature wasn’t aiming al or model UN or something, to penalize students with the if I recall. Our chemistry teach- misfortune of long-term iller — who happened to be my ness — ongoing chemotherapy dad — declined to approve treatments, for example, as was her absence. Well, this student the case with a student I knew couldn’t go on the trip without during my high school years — that signature. So, of course, but the blanket approach in the it wasn’t long until the history new law leaves one wondering and government teacher who whether a school district can lewas leading the trip was asking gally make exceptions for such why dad hadn’t signed the pa- situations at this point. per.

That the rub with these School policy, he said. things. It’s counterintuitive, but This particular student — sometimes laws that are written though the high-achieving too broadly can actually back sort — had yet to turn in sev- you into some pretty specific eral previous chemistry assign- corners. ments she missed on account of I don’t envy the job state her other extracurriculars, and legislators have each session school policy required dad to — committing endless hours not sign off on additional ab- to bills and committees in Des sences until those missing as- Moines while often holding a signments were in hand. full-time job back at home, all In other words, this student while trying to make changes had less than 24 hours to com- for the better. And sometimes plete her classwork or the bus the wide-spread approach can would literally leave without seem like the best one until it’s her. Well, spoiler-alert, that par- applied at home. ticular student suddenly prioriFortunately, that’s what tized her school work over the amendments are for, and that’s extras, and she turned in all her what I think will ultimately outstanding homework by the need to be done with this new end of the very same day. law.

I tell you all this simply to show that concerns over Agree with Seth? Think he’s how consistent absences from got it completely backwards or school can affect a student’s he’s missed the point entirely? work aren’t new. Not only that, Let your voice be heard. Letters but schools have had ways of to the editor may be emailed to addressing such issues. editor@decorahleader.com or And, anecdotally, it would dropped off at 110 Washington seem to me they worked.

St. Suite 4 in Decorah.

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Decorah should maintain its Altfillisch-designed Municipal Building Editor, Preserve and maintain our Charles Altfillisch-designed Municipal Building.

Decorah’s Historic Preservation Commission, Mark Guggli chair, produced in 1922 a special brochure entitled “A Tour of Decorah Architecture of Charles Altfillisch.”

It describes the impact Altfil-

lisch had throughout Decorah in neighborhoods, downtown and at Luther College with his 60 architecture plans.

Let us preserve and maintain Altfillisch’s Municipal Building.

Joie Cole Decorah

Christian nationalism – be careful what you wish for

Are you tempted by the idea of turning the U.S. into a “Christian” nation to control all the “sin” you see around you?

Do you wish everyone was as Christian as you? Do you resent having to “tolerate” diversity in our liberal democracy and long for a theocracy to enforce Christian values? Well, be careful what you wish for. Look around the world to nations that are run by religions. Is a “Christian” version of them a model you long for? Do you think that wouldn’t happen in your “Christian” USA? OK, say that dream happened.

Whose version of Christian would be in charge? Yours, of course. But wait. Your version of Christian is a small to tiny minority. Christians don’t actually agree on much policy-wise.

It doesn’t matter which brand you adhere to, to say nothing of all the non-Christians in the U.S. Here’s a breakdown, according to the Pew Research Center a few years ago (www. pewresearch.org/religion/religious-landscape-study).

varieties) Catholic (20.8 percent) Mormon (1.6 percent - two versions) Orthodox Christian (.05 percent - four versions) Jehovah’s Witness (0.8 percent) Other Christian (0.4 percent four versions)

Christian: 70.6 percent (Looks promising to you?

Look further – no one can claim the “Christian” brand belongs to them) Evangelical Protestant (25.4 percent - in 50 different flavors) Mainline Protestant (14.7 percent - in 22 different denominations) Historically Black Protestant (6.5 percent - in 16 different

If there is anything that distinguishes religions, it is that they are all “right.” Which means everyone else is either uninformed, wrong or evil – good material to righteously smite.

History does not bode well for religious rule, regardless of the religion.

Non-Christian: 5.9 percent Jewish (1.9 percent) Muslim (0.9 percent) Buddhist (0.7 percent) Hindu (0.7 percent) Other World Religions (0.3 percent) Other Faiths (1.5 percent) (Note: All of the above non-Christian have many sub-flavors, not separately identified) Unaffiliated (religious “nones”): 22.8 percent Atheist (3.1 percent) Agnostic (4.0 percent) Nothing in particular: 15.8 percent Don’t know: 0.6 percent

Lyle Luzum Decorah

The number of Winneshiek County residents actively monitoring our board of supervisors has increased these last two years. This began in early 2023 when the board, chaired by Dan Langreck, made a series of dubious decisions that resulted in the loss of our respected roadside vegetation manager and an employee who maintained recreational trails, and then the resignation of our county engineer after 20-plus years. In resigning, our engineer forcefully blamed the Langreck-led board for relying on “random opinions, conjecture or hearsay” instead of “information backed by facts.”

Monitoring the board is important, but not easy. Most working people don’t have Monday mornings free to attend meetings, in person or online. One obvious solution: the board could record its meetings and post the video online for open-ended public access. But the board voted on Jan. 23 and again on March 20 of last year not to record its meetings for the public (Supervisors Shir-

ley Vermace and Mark Faldet were outvoted by the Langreck faction). So community volunteers have had to use their own resources to record and post meetings on YouTube whenever possible.

But it’s worse than that. At the June 19, 2023, meeting the county attorney expressly recommended that the board record its meetings, to create an official record (useful in legal disputes), serve county residents who can’t attend on Monday mornings, and accommodate those with hearing and other disabilities. The board sat on that recommendation for six months, then last January, Langreck again provided the deciding vote against recording the board’s meetings for the public.

There is no excuse for this disregard of the public interest by the Langreck majority.

Anyone who believes that local government is the servant of the people should find this unacceptable and demand change.

Steve St. Clair Decorah

Research Harris’ policies before it’s too late

When I read the letters to the editor, I wonder, are we commenting on Democrat vs. Republican or is it really Socialist — Communism — vs our Republic — not democracy. I find it just amazing and hard to believe some of the comments.

What ever happened to common sense?

I look around the country and see that almost every town that has a college, their population tends to lean primarily liberal.

So I have to ask myself, has the education system changed that much since I was in college?

I see the difference between liberals and conservatives, as liberals tend to just follow along with the comments of one party and repeat the narrative without understanding what they said. Conservatives on the other hand tend to actually look

at both sides of an argument, thereby understanding.

So far, I have not seen Kamala say anything about her policies so everybody knows what she will do when in power. I’ve always had to look outside the box to solve different problems and always question what everybody says, do my own research and not just repeat comments. I recommend everyone do their research to find out what Kamala’s policies are. We all know what Trump says. So when you find out what her policies are, I think you will be shocked. So do your own research before it’s too late. So let’s turn the page and find out what her policies really are.

Roger Henningsgaard Decorah

Removing dark money from politics will benefit all The 1-percent rule this country. They own the media, many politicians and now the Supreme Court. They have hollowed out public education, nearly destroyed unions and gerrymandered most of the country, Meanwhile, they use their media empire to distract us with useless polling, culture war nonsense, racism and xenophobia.

There are many thousands of good people working hard to get our government back, but the oligarchy has used its power to make it so that a handful of bought-and-paid-for politicians can stop any progress. They only have to play defense, and they can afford it.

This is not a partisan issue, and it isn’t about philosophy.

It’s money. The 1-percent isn’t loyal to anything but their own wealth and power. Before the Supreme Court Citizens United ruling, our government mostly worked.

Dark money means we have no way to know who is paying to influence our vote. We know that China and Russia and others are actively trying to exert influence.

It doesn’t have to be like this.

We must work on getting big dark money out of politics for the benefit of all, and the sake of our country. If we don’t, the cruel farce that many now perceive our government to be will become a permanent reality.

Carl Homstad Decorah

Academic Achievements Iverson earns spot on DMACC Dean’s List

Des Moines Area Community College President Rob Denson recently released the names of students eligible for the Summer Semester Dean’s List. Lily Iverson of Decorah was among the honorees.

To be eligible, a student must have completed a minimum of six credits and earned a 3.5 to 3.99 grade point average for that semester.

Groux participates in DMU’s White Coat Ceremony

Allison Groux of Calmar was one of 438 Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences students from five programs to receive their white coat during the university’s annual White Coat Ceremony

on Friday, Sept. 13.

The White Coat Ceremony is often considered the formal start of a student’s medical education, becoming a compassionate and competent health care provider.

“As you don your white coat today, you assume not only the responsibilities, but also the obligation that attend to those who choose to provide care to other human beings,” said Angela L. Walker Franklin,of president and CEO of DMU. “These obligations include to be honorable in all phases of your life, to excel in your academic studies and training, to be compassionate, to be accountable, to collaborate with others as an interprofessional team member and to support a culture of inclusiveness.”

Groux and about 50 other stu-

dents in the college’s Podiatric Medicine and surgery’s Doctor of Podiatric Medicine programs participated in DMU’s ceremony.

They were joined by 63 students in the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, 25 students in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program, 66 Doctor of Physical Therapy program and 233 students in the College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program.

Bronner receives Clifford A. Rae Academic Achievement Award

Marissa Bronner of Cresco recently received the Clifford A. Rae Academic Achievement Award.

The award was given to nine Buena Vista University business students

and nine science students for the 2024 academic year.

The awards, which range up to $10,000, were created by two separate $750,000 endowments from the foundations established by Harold Walter Siebens and named after the long-time advisor and counsel to Siebens and the foundations.

The endowments support annual awards for up to three pre-qualified, academically high-performing BVU business and science students in each of the second, third and fourth years of school.

These awards often help students offset the personal costs associated with completing an internship or experiential learning initiative, providing them with opportunities they otherwise would not be able to experience.

OBITUARIES/NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Obituary John Falada

March 3, 1949 - Sept. 11, 2024 John Sylvester Falada died Sept. 11, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona.

John was born March 3, 1949, in Decorah. He grew up on a family farm near Spillville along with his mother, father and paternal John Falada grandmother. He had one sister, Mary, who passed away at nine months old and one brother, Jerry, who passed away when he was 18 years old.

Growing up on the farm, John learned the value of family, faith, hard work, loyalty and perseverance. He attended St. Wenceslaus Catholic School through the eighth grade. He graduated from South Winneshiek High School in 1967.

He moved to Minneapolis and attended electrical trade school for two years.

The world was calling him for a bigger task and he chose to enlist in the United States Air Force in October 1969. He served in the Vietnam war and retired with 20 years of service ending in Vandenburg AFB in California. He had two tours of duty in Germany that he enjoyed very much. His daughter, Cathy, was born in 1975 and John raised her as a single father from three years old until she married and had a family of her own. In 1990 after retiring from the Air Force, John and Cathy moved to Gilbert, Arizona.

John worked at Cendant (hotel reservations) in Phoenix for the next 12 years. Also working at the same company was a lady by the name of Sharon Kunold. They had very little contact with each other until nine years later in 1998. Their romance blossomed quickly, and they married seven months after their first date. They both enjoyed hiking together, travelling and going to local concerts. Faith was very important to both John and Sharon. Daily prayer together was a part of their life. John attended St. Pat-

rick’s regularly, and Sharon attended Scottsdale Bible Church where she participated and still participates in the church orchestra. They would occasionally visit each other’s church.

When COVID-19 restrictions began to lift, John and Sharon would alternate one week at St. Patrick’s and the next week at Scottsdale Bible. Growing up with different faiths, they learned how to make it work.

John was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2011. Although he endured 13 years of treatment, he always remained positive and kept a good attitude. It didn’t stop him from hiking six miles a day or travelling to all 50 states, over 50 countries and all seven continents in his life.

After leaving the Cendant company in 2002, John went to work for Mayo Clinic. He thoroughly enjoyed his 10 years of employment there and continued volunteering at Mayo for an additional 12 years. In the last few days of his life, he was hospitalized at the same place he had worked and volunteered for 22 years. It is comforting to know he was in a place he loved and trusted. He received the most excellent care from the team of doctors and nurses at Mayo and they are truly a topnotch organization.

John is survived by his wife, Sharon Falada; daughter Cathy Somers (Aaron); grandson Tyler Somers; granddaughter Moriah Somers; Sharon’s family in Nebraska and multiple cousins mostly in the Midwest.

John was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Falada; mother Irma Falada; sister Mary Falada; and brother Jerry Falada.

Interment will be at the National Cemetery in Phoenix. A memorial service will be held on at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 27 at St. Patrick’s church, 10815 N. 84th St., Scottsdale, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s memory to the USO (intermountain.uso. org/skyharbor) or the Fearless Kitty Rescue (fearlesskittyrescue.org).

Law Enforcement Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office Cody Hageman, age 22, was arrested on a warrant and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 8:55 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4 on the charge of violation of sex offender registration requirements — second offense.

A Fort Atkinson woman was taken to WinnMed with possible injuries following a single-vehicle injury the morning of Thursday, Sept.

5. Information from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 36-year-old Nicole Lynn Schroeder was eastbound on 155th Street west of 305th Avenue during a downpour and lost control on loose gravel before skidding into a ditch. An incident report said the 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe she was driving struck a field driveway and came to rest in a flat grassy area. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $5,000.

Jacob Erickson, age 32, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 12:22 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 6 on the charge of violation of probation.

Ronald Gerleman, age 51, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 5:35 p.m. Monday, Sept.

9 on charges of operating while intoxicated — first offense — and speeding.

Brandon Bruns, age 25, turned himself in at the Winneshiek County Jail and was booked at 11:45 a.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 on an arrest warrant. Court records show a criminal complaint was filed against Bruns on Sept. 9, alleging he “jabbed his finger as hard as he could” into the victim’s leg during an argument on Aug. 23 at Bruns’ residence in the 1400 block of Lazy K Road in Decorah. Bruns was charged with domestic abuse/assault.

Dylan Thomas Stull, age 32, of Waterloo was arrested and transported to Black Hawk County on an arrest warrant for violation of parole at approximately 2:05 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 12 in Calmar. The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Of-

fice was assisted by the Calmar Police Department and the Iowa State Patrol.

Isaac Crawford, age 31, of Mabel, Minnesota, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at approximately 8:21 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 12 on an arrest warrant. Court records show the warrant was issued regarding charges of eluding and possession of a controlled substance filed against Crawford in September of 2014.

Elizabeth Lesser, age 39, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 4:25 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13 on a bench/arrest warrant.

Curtis Lacey, age 39, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 6:05 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13 to serve 14 consecutive days.

Ryan Tupper, age 51, of Postville was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 5:35 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13 on an arrest warrant for violation of probation. Court records show Tupper had originally been charged in Fayette County with at least two counts of lascivious acts with a child and had completed court requirements at the West Union Residential Facility as of March 27 this year. Court documents said Tupper informed his parole officer he had been struggling with his mental health, missed work, fallen behind on rent and would be without a home the following day.

Tracy Leuchtenmacher, age 32, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 11:45 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 on an arrest/bench warrant. Court records indicate she violated the terms of her probation after being charged on Sept.

10 with domestic abuse — first offense — in Howard County. Court records claim Leuchtenmacher “shoved the victim, causing his knuckles to strike the doorway and cause bleeding.”

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

5

City engineer unveils proposed redesign of Heivly Street

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER The stretch of Decorah’s Heivly Street from River Street to College Drive may see some welcome changes.

City Engineer John Hjelle shared details of the proposed project Monday with members of Decorah City Council, highlighting key features of the design. According to Hjelle, the project will be completed in at least two phases, with bid letting for the first phase scheduled for late 2025. Paving during the first phase will end near the driveway of the city’s fire department building. Paving during the second phase is expected to pick up where the first phase ends, and improvements to Heivly will start near the intersection of River Street and head west. Phase two will be completed in conjunction with the installation of the city’s new elementary school.

Parking and utility work expected during first phase Plans show Heivly Street would be narrowed from the west side of Mill Street to College Drive, with parking allowed on only one side of the street. However, the street will be wide enough to accommodate parking on both sides starting on the east side of Mill Street and beyond. Hjelle

said most of the foot and bicycle traffic in that area uses the northern sidewalk along Heivly, and plans call for a 10-footwide sidewalk in the north boulevard to accommodate that traffic. Additionally, a 6-foot grass boulevard will be installed near the intersection of Heivly and Mill streets.

Private utilities on the poles along Heivly will be moved underground, and extensive reconstruction of public utilities is expected along the entire length of Heivly.

“There is a spider web of underground utilities from the College Drive intersection down Heivly Street,” Hjelle said. “Right now, there are pipes that are undersized feeding into oversized pipes.”

The left turn lane on Heivly at the College Drive intersection will be removed as part of the proposed plan and turned into a single lane. A modern traffic signal system will replace the antiquated pressure-triggered model currently installed at the intersection.

A bicycle lane will be created across College Drive and will connect to the bicycle/pedestrian walkway at the southern end of the bridge.

Traffic circle an option during phase two Plans for the River Street intersection may include either a traffic circle or an updated four-

A potential roundabout at the intersection of Claiborne Avenue, Heivly and River Streets has been a topic of discussion for more than a decade. If approved, instalation would occur in mid 2026. way intersection.

“This is not the first time a traffic circle has been suggested for this location,” Hjelle said.

“It was suggested 10, 15 years ago.”

Hjelle travelled to nearby Wisconsin to observe traffic circles there.

“There are three in Prairie Du Chien, and two more due to be installed,” Hjelle said. “People have gotten used to them.”

Hjelle said he took measurements during his site visits and observed vehicles passing through the traffic circles. He said the city should keep to a 100-foot model if officials decide to move forward with the traffic circle at the River Street intersection.

“It clears traffic through the intersection quicker, and it works really well,” he said.

The city engineer and the city council members discussed the pros and cons of the proposed change, specifically as it relates to safety.

Council member Steven Zittergruen expressed concern about bicyclists using the roundabout, especially the younger crowd. Council member Kirsten Olsen echoed Zittergruen’s concerns, sharing his worries about children crossing the street near the traffic circle before and after school — the district’s high school building and John Cline Elementary building both currently stand less than 1,000 feet east of the intersection.

“Let’s communicate with the school and see where they want their crosswalks to go in comparison to the circle,” said Hjelle.

Supervisors consider changes to rural waste collection program A Hawkeye Sanitation rear-load driver empties his truck Tuesday morning at the Winneshiek County Landfill. If approved, the Ossian rural waste collection site may be relocated to the landfill.

(Photo by Zach Jensen)

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Winneshiek County rural waste collection may undergo some changes as of Jan. 1, 2025, if a plan proposed by county officials falls into place.

The issue was discussed during Monday’s regular meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors — during which Winneshiek County Landfill Director and Rural Waste Coordinator TJ Schissel proposed several changes to enhance rural waste collection while also potentially saving the county money.

The supervisors had originally discussed discontinuing the rural waste collection program in May but, after significant public input, the board reversed course and decided instead to collect data on how many rural county residents were using the service.

Before data collection, Schissel said the county estimated 500-600 people were using the rural collection sites per week, but in Monday’s meeting, Schissel said that number is actually closer to 1,450 — more than double the previous estimate.

“In this whole process of data collection, we’ve eliminated a certain number of people who were coming from elsewhere — not rural residents — and we have eliminated obviously some commercial businesses and so forth that were dumping into it also,” Kelsay said. “So, now we’re getting some complaints from businesses in small towns that are having their dumpsters filled with other peoples’ trash, (because they) can no longer go out and use the rural waste.”

Schissel suggested that if the county wanted to save some money, it could add more recycling containers to the rural waste collection sites, which would then be hauled by Winneshiek County Recycling.

That move would save the

county about $35,000 annually, Schissel said.

Another option Schissel brought up was moving the Ossian rural waste collection site to the county’s landfill, which would increase rural waste users’ commute by 5 miles one way. The trade-off, Schissel said, would be that the landfill will be open to rural waste customers from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every weekday — whereas the Ossian rural waste collection site is currently only open on Tuesdays.

The Schissel said the county could also distribute rear-view mirror placards to every registered rural waste collection site user, which they can present either at their collection site or the landfill as proof they are permitted to use the collection facilities.

The collection site schedule might also change.

If approved, the Locust collection site would be open Mondays, Wednesdays and the first and third Fridays of each month. Bluffton’s site would be open on Tuesdays, and Ridgeway’s site would be open the second and fourth Friday of each month. Kendallville’s site would be open the first and third Thursday of each month, and the Fort Atkinson site would

be open the second and fourth Thursday every month. Schissel said the landfill would also be open to all rural waste program users Monday through Friday.

To make the changes, Schissel said the county would need to buy another two roll-off containers. Winneshiek County has traditionally used 30-cubic-yard roll-off dumpsters, and Schissel said someone is currently checking prices on both 30-yard and 40-yard containers.

A 40-yard roll-off container can cost more than $5,000, but County Auditor Ben Steines said they pay for themselves within a couple years.

Supervisor Steve Kelsay suggested the possibility of replacing the 20-yard roll-off container currently at the Locust collection site with a 40-yard container to reduce trips from that site to the landfill. Schissel agreed with Kelsay, adding that a larger container would help at the Locust site.

Once approved, the county would immediately begin ordering and distributing placards for registered users and would tentatively implement the schedule changes Jan. 1, 2025, Schissel said.

In other business: • Winneshiek County Engi-

neer Michael Kueny is coordinating with the county’s information technology department and vendors to install updated GPS technology in county vehicles. Two cameras will be placed on selected vehicles to test capabilities.

• A recent county equipment malfunction involving a diesel pump at the Freeport shop has been addressed, and testing by Black Hawk Environmental around the diesel tank found no evidence of contaminants in the surrounding soil.

• Kueny reported that he has completed a first pass of a budget review and five-year program.

“Most categories of the budget are at or below budget expectations,” Kueny said in his weekly report. “This reflects very highly on our crew leadership and our crew’s execution.”

• County Attorney Andy Van Der Maaten reported the supervisors should revisit the topic of recording their meetings. He asked that the matter be on next week’s supervisors’ meeting agenda.

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

COMMUNITY

6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Turkey Valley Elementary holds Annual Summer Reading Celebration Turkey Valley Elementary School recently held its annual Summer Reading Celebration — marking another year of reading and outdoor fun. The event, supported by the Turkey Valley Education Foundation, brought students together for a day of fun. Students enjoyed a variety of games at the park, including pickleball, kickball and Gaga ball.

Creative play under the oak trees at Evans Park and playground fun kept everyone active and entertained. After a morning of games, students cooled off with a swim at the Cresco Fitness Center. To top the day off, students returned to school to enjoy an ice cream treat. (Photos submitted)

Hultgren plays the Iowa Cello Book

Decorah Cellist Craig Hultgren hosted a special performance of the Iowa Cello Book the night of Friday, Sept.

13 at the Porter House Museum in Decorah. The Iowa Cello Book is a collection of music compositions by composers from the Iowa Composers Forum. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Community briefs

Decorah First UMC to celebrate building’s 150th anniversary The Decorah First United Methodist Church, the oldest congregation in Decorah, will be celebrating the 150th anniversary of their current church building. The celebration will take place at 10 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 6. All community members and friends of the church are invited to attend. The celebration will include a worship service led by Rev. Cat Stokes. The service will be followed by a potluck luncheon in the fellowship hall. Main dish, table service and beverages will be provided. Attendees are asked to bring a side dish, salad or dessert to share.

The congregation was originally founded in 1851. It built its first church building, a small white frame building, in 1855.

It was the first church building

in Decorah. The present brick church building was constructed in 1874 under the leadership of Rev. E. L. Miller. The building has undergone many changes, modifications and updates over the years. The congregation is currently celebrating a “Strong Walls, Open Doors” campaign to improve the building, including tuckpointing on the church’s exterior walls.

The church has been observing the anniversary of the building throughout the year, with various posters, presentations JOIN US IN OSAGE, IA FOR FOX RIVER’S and publications on the history of the church. These materials have included historical photos 2023 and information about the pasPREMIUM SOCKS tors that have served the church. $1 TO $3 PER PAIR on Attendees at the celebration MITCHELL FAIRGROUNDS, ST. Oct. 6CO. will be able1006 to CHESTNUT see some OCT 6TH historic OCT 7TH OCT 8TH of these materials.

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The Decorah Genealogy Association will host “Poor Farm”

by Kevin Lee, during an event at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 27 in the senior center — 808 River St. in Decorah.

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Winneshiek County Celebration of Life is planning a fundraising event scheduled to take place Nov. 1 at the Hotel Winneshiek in Decorah. Doors will open at 6 p.m. with musical entertainment from 7-9 p.m. Tickets are available for $35 at Margaret’s Boutique, Modish and Hotel Winneshiek — only 300 tickets will be sold. WCCOL members are also selling raffle tickets. The tickets will also be available the night of the event for $5 a piece or six for $20. The nonprofit is seeking sponsors willing to donate $250 in support of the event.

WCCOL partners with officials at WinnMed’s facilities in Decorah, Ossian and Mabel as well as Gundersen Health Systems’ locations in Decorah and Calmar to promote cancer awareness and prevention. Organizers said the nonprofit has provided food and fuel cards to more than 70 individuals since January of this year.

Lee to present ‘Poor Farm’

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Congratulations to the City of Decorah on ownership and management of the new Parklet Program!

Pictured are local business, organization and volunteer representatives along with Chamber Ambassadors Dallas Steffen, Chris Hicks, Tade Kerndt and Holly Allen.

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County Democrats to hold music and Politics In The Park

Winneshiek County Democrats will offer music, candidate speeches and supper during their Politics in the Park event on Oct. 6 at Whalen Cabin.

Iowa State Auditor and Decorah native Rob Sand will kick off the festivities at 4:15 p.m. with remarks about the state political scene. Blues musicians Joe and Vicki Price will play their first musical set at 4:30 p.m.

Both are members of the Iowa Blues Hall of Fame. Participants are encouraged to arrive by 4 p.m. Following the first set, WinnDem County Chair John Beard will introduce Brian Bruening, candidate for Iowa Senate District 32, and Shirley Vermace, incumbent candidate for Winneshiek County Supervisor District 3. Both will give brief speeches. The festivities will finish up with a pulled pork supper and another set by the Prices. Freewill donations will be welcomed.

Community Walking Supper to be held

The public is invited to enjoy a free supper walking around Decorah with friends and family from 5-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2. Appetizers will be served at the Carrie Lee Elementary playground. Participants may then walk to John Cline School, where walking tacos will be served from 5:45-6:30 p.m. before attendees head to the Winneshiek County Courthouse.

Dessert will be served on the courthouse lawn at 6:45 p.m.

The event will be presented by the Decorah Community School District, Decorah Parks and Recreation, Decorah Public Library and Upper Explorerland’s Safe Routes to School as part of the Healthiest State Initiative’s Annual Walk. Participants are asked to bring their own water bottles.

No registration is required, but organizers said submitting an RSVP to the Community Walking Supper Event’s Facebook page — facebook.com/share/5yfLfiFomCafSFgV/.

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The Allamakee County Veterans Services Office is seeking volunteer drivers to transport area veterans to the Iowa City VA Hospital, using the Iowa City VA van. A special license is not required, and drivers do not need to be a veteran to volunteer for driving services. A state driver’s license and good driving record are required as well as proof of insurance on a personal vehicle to show you can be insured. New volunteers will make their first trip to the Iowa City VA is with another driver who will explain the process. New volunteers will also undergo a free physical with a VA doctor during that visit. A Volunteer Services Officer will provide an orientation and take information for a background investigation. Volunteer drivers can anticipate starting their day as early as 4:30 a.m., waiting for veterans to complete their medical care returning as late as 5:30 p.m. Drivers receive a meal ticket for breakfast and, in some cases, lunch. Volunteers are compensated for their time at a rate of $60 per day. Please call Allamakee County Veteran Services at (563) 568-6135 for additional information.

Decorah Community Food Pantry diaper drive begins next week

The Decorah Community Food Pantry is sponsoring a community-wide diaper drive Oct 1-15. In-kind donations of diapers, unopened wipes and ointment can be dropped off between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the food pantry, 110 Railroad St. in Decorah. Other collection sites are the Decorah Fareway store and First Lutheran Church during office hours or Sunday mornings. Monetary donations can be mailed to the Decorah Community Food Pantry, PO Box 26, Decorah, IA 52101, or online at decorahpantry.org/ give.

“Food Pantry clients are given one package of diapers each month, but it has been a long time since we have had any in stock,” said director Matt Tapscott. “We hope this community-wide effort to collect diapers will help supply young families in need for the next several months.”

Last year nearly 25,000 clients made use of the pantry, with 60 percent coming from Winneshiek County. For more information contact the Food Pantry at 563-202-0872 or director@decorahpantry.org.

Decorah Public Library announces October Coffee and Creativity Programs

Decorah ~

Allamakee officials seeking volunteer drivers for veterans services

Decorah Public Library and ArtHaus are continuing the Coffee and Creativity program in October. This series is designed to help build community

while being creative. Participants can make simple craft projects while chatting over coffee from 10-11:30 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month in the library’s mezzanine. The sessions will be led by ArtHaus instructors. The general public is welcome to participate, regardless of previous experience or artistic ability. On Oct. 1, organizers will be hosting a Paint-A-Long and on Oct. 15 they will be needle-felting pumpkins. This program is free to the public and all materials are provided. For more information, please contact Zach Row-Heyveld at Decorah Public Library by email zrowheyveld@decorahlibrary.org or by calling 563-382-3717.

Thunder Rode to host benefit dance, silent auction

Thunder Rode, a therapeutic horsemanship program serving participants from Allamakee, Howard and Winneshiek Counties in northeast Iowa, is having a benefit dance and small silent auction from 2-5 p.m.

Oct. 6 at Pulpit Rock Brewing Co. The featured band will be Joe Sweeney and The New Toe Tappers. A free will donation will be accepted at the door. Thunder Rode provides three services – sports therapy, which is for individuals with special needs, ranging from cerebral palsy to Down syndrome; Iowa Thunder Youth Empowerment, which helps youth with ADD, anger management and depression; and Tri-state Thunder Vets, which is a program in which veterans assist veterans.

Franson to hold fireside chat

The public is invited to join Minneapolis author Sally Franson, author of “Big In Sweden,” and the Oneota Valley Literary Foundation at 7 p.m. Tuesday Oct. 1 in the Hotel Winneshiek Lobby for a fireside chat, including reading, a Q&A and book signing. Franson is the author of the novel “A Lady’s Guide To Selling Out.” Her second novel, “Big In Sweden,” was published in summer 2024 by Mariner Books.

Actress Meg Ryan is currently developing a screen adaptation of “A Lady’s Guide” with Netflix and Anonymous Content.

Sally was a 2022 cast member of “Allt för Sverige,” a Swedish reality TV show about finding one’s roots. She lives in Minneapolis.

St. John’s to host garage and bake sales

The WELCA chapter of St. John’s Lutheran Church will hold a garage and bake sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, Oct. 11, and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 12, at St. John’s Church at 1638 Big Canoe Road in rural Decorah — also known as the Locust church. All funds raised will be used for a new exterior sign and a defibrillator.

u o y k an h T

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

7

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Emergency management helps fill potential Winneshiek County Emergency Management Coordinator Sean Snyder compared his role to holes, gaps the hub of a wagon wheel. In addition to supporting fire, law enforcement and medical personSnyder’s office coordinates with church groups, nonprofits and national entities, such as during disasters nel, the Red Cross and the Salvation Army, when disaster strikes. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR

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Sean Snyder, Winneshiek County’s emergency management coordinator, says he’ll rarely, if ever, be the one in charge during a disaster.

Rather, he said, his role is to stand shoulder to shoulder with police, fire chiefs, and other emergency personnel to make sure they each have the necessary resources to do their jobs.

“I deal in what-ifs,” he said.

Snyder himself has been with the county EMS for nearly nine years, but he has been involved with fire departments, law enforcement agencies and emergency response crews since January of 2002. And he said part of his current role is to take a proverbial 10,000-foot view of a scene to anticipate what various personnel may require in various emergency scenarios.

“That can be difficult when you come from a boots-on-the-ground perspective,” he said. “But when you pull yourself back and start to look at the scene as a whole — a wholistic approach — you really start to see where emergency management can start plugging some holes and filling gaps.”

Winneshiek County is home to seven volunteer fire departments, three law enforcement agencies and about 80 trained emergency medical personnel. Snyder said he has to be familiar with what each department does and — by extension —

the resources they need. plained the command structure “I’m fortunate that I kind of have during a given call often depends the feel from being one of those re- on the specific type of emergency sponders,” Snyder said. “I’ve done — fire chiefs might be best suited to it long enough that I can guess the lead search and rescue operations, low-hanging fruit they’ll need. And while police chiefs may be the best outside of that, it’s a matter of vis- option during an active shooter iting with the chiefs and the people scenario for example. Snyder said for the agencies.” his office helps in those processes Snyder said he meets with local by discussing plans and formulatfire associations and EMS groups ing a response. And he indicated a regularly, and his own office space wide variety of experience is a benis just a few steps from the law en- efit when he and other emergency forcement center, which houses the personnel are tasked with making Decorah Police Department and critical decisions in relatively short the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s order.

Office. He said communicating “You fall back on your training,” regularly with the chiefs and heads he said. “A lot of us have had a lot of the numerous volunteer forc- of different response-level traines helps him learn their individual ings.” processes and see where his office Snyder went on to say his office can serve in a supporting role. hopes to hold a number of training In addition to working with local events in the near future. medical, fire and law enforcement He said such training sessions can agencies, Snyder often coordinates be valuable tools — though he notwith other local entities, such as the ed they generally feel quite differcounty’s public health office, pub- ent than an actual emergency. And, lic works departments and others to with many local agencies relying be prepared for situations outside on volunteer members, he indicated the typical fire or ambulance call. there’s always a need to engage poSnyder said he’s also working to tential volunteers to help maintain rebuild the Winneshiek Emergency the backbone of any community’s Preparedness Coalition, which he emergency response teams. said experienced a Winneshiek County is home to seven downturn of sorts volunteer fire departments, three law during the enforcement agencies and about 80 COVID-19 trained emergency medical personnel. pandemic.

He ex-

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8 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Music and art draw crowd to ‘Live on Winnebago’ Saturday

A sizable crowd turned out for Live on Winnebago Saturday in downtown Decorah. The one-day, free-to-attend music and arts festival celebrated local and regional artists and musicians. Activities for all ages included live music, an art fair, shadow puppet show, collaborative cardboard fort activity, community mural and more. Organizer Caleb Ulring of Decorah called the event “incredibly successful” with an estimated 850 people attending.

ABOVE- The musical group Maritza performed Saturday afternoon on the Blue Stage set up on Winnebago Street.

Named for a river in Bulgaria, Maritza was born during a jam session among Pine Wilson and friends in 1998 in Decorah. According to the group’s social media, Pine’s love for eastern European music and folk dance was the impetus for the band as it took shape.

LEFT- Showing off Live on Winnebago merchandise Saturday afternoon were volunteers (from left to right) Sophie Nall, Debbie Paulson and Sarah Zbornik of Decorah.

Tatum Murray and Everly Ludeking are pictured here taking their turns painting the community mural. Artists of all ages participated during Live on Winnebago. (Photos by Roz Weis)

Matt Steven and his daughter Maisie enjoyed the shadow puppet-making booth set up during Live on Winnebago Saturday.

Friends enjoyed the afternoon entertainment along Winnebago Street.

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TO BE SOLD BY KARLA OLSON: kitchen table, 4 chairs, 2 leaves. 3 oak end tables, coffee tables, corner table, floor lamps, entry table, large couch with assorted pillows, solid oak office desk, steel file cabinet, 2 lateral file cabinets, lighted secretary, cedar chest, miscellaneous pictures and wall decor, large assortment of miscellaneous dishes, glassware, decorative items. Yard and garden tools.

TO BE SOLD BY SHERYL AND RON JUVE: 48” round oak table with 2-12” leaves (early 1900’s Big Canoe Church), 6 solid oak chairs, China hutch, cherry queen size bed with mattress and nightstand, 3-piece computer desk, sofa, 2 metal with glass coffee tables, 2 old clocks, 12-gallon western crock (one handle gone), set of Bavarian dishes from Germany 1960, Nordic Track Intensity Stick Power Ram exercise machine - like new.

Recumbent bike. Set of Time Life leather bound western books, hand painted bowls, many old pictures and picture frames, many miscellaneous - log chains, tools, air compressor, floor jacks.

Note: This is a very abbreviated list. Many more misc. items of possible antique or collectable value.

OWNERS: RON & SHERYL JUVE AND KARLA OLSON Auctioneers: Dave Holstad - John Anderson Ron Juve - 563-379-0927

NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

9

Hotel Winneshiek

Oneota Food Co-op

Fareway

The proposed parking plan would dedicate Lot A as a 48-hour public overnight parking lot and Lots B and C would be available for overnight parking only for downtown residents who have a city-issued parking permit.

Overnight parking plan in development

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER

A resolution may be in sight for the city’s longstanding shortage of overnight parking for downtown residents. Decorah’s city engineer and city council met Monday and developed a potential parking plan.

The new plan is meant to both provide downtown residents and designate a separate public lot for overnight parking.

According to the city’s current parking plan, which was developed in 1997, there are more than 1,000 on-and offstreet parking spaces in the 200 400 downtown district, with 92 cale 1"=200' stalls designated as overnight public parking.

City Engineer John Hjelle said there are about 55 short and long-term rentals among the 100-plus buildings along Water Street, between Mill and Day streets. Long-term residents are currently restricted from parking on Water Street or on any streets adjacent to Water Street.

They can park only in city lots — such as North Alley, located behind Water Street’s northern

retail buildings.

The North Alley western lot (referred in the story as Lot A) — located behind the Oneota Community Food Co-op across from the local Post Office — has 63 parking stalls, while the large central lot (Lot B) between Court and State streets has more than 150 parking stalls. Despite a combined total of nearly 215 stalls in the two North Alley lots, only 14 are earmarked for residents — six stalls in the western lot, and eight stalls in the central lot. Sixteen additional stalls are located two blocks south on State Street next to the Fareway parking lot (Lot C).

Permit parking was discussed at several prior city council meetings, with some city officials proposing downtown residents be issued a permit allowing them to park near their homes overnight. The idea was taken up again during Monday’s meeting.

“We should open up the lot along Day Street to permit parking,” said Council Member at Large Emily Neal. “Maybe designate Lot A as 48-hour public parking, Lot B for permit

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parking overnight and Lot C would also be permit parking.”

Neal’s suggestion was met with positive feedback, and several members suggested residents pay a small yearly fee for their permits. Council Member Kirsten Olsen proposed maps showing the designated parking areas be provided for residents to use — fellow council member Steve Zittergruen expanded on that idea.

“They can pay for a yearly permit and use the map for parking options, or they can choose to use the map and find free parking spaces and walk,” Zittergruen said.

Ultimately, the council settled on a tentative plan in which Lot A would become a public parking lot for 48-hour overnight parking, while Lot B and Lot C would be available for overnight residential permit parking.

Hjelle voiced concern with snow removal in the North Alley, noting parked vehicles could hinder that process.

“We are not talking about a large number of vehicles. We are more concerned with snow removal and where the vehicles need to go,” said Hjelle, assuring the group he would meet with the street department and developed a revised plan for snow removal.

Log jam-boree at Fifth Street bridge A log jam at the city’s Fifth Street bridge was slowly removed last week by Winneshiek County workers. The blockage was one of nine such log jams across the county caused by the June 21 flooding disaster. The debris was moved to a location where it will spend the next several months drying out before being burned. The ashes will then be buried at the county landfill. (Photo submitted)

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NEWS

10 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

The Canoe German Methodist Church is having a

HYMN SING Sunday, Sept. 29, at 2:00 p.m.

Located 6 miles NE on Canoe Ridge Rd. Everyone is welcome!

right on the trail – no dog owner would leave their poop on the trail.”

Danielle Dotzenrod, representing the saddle club, stated the saddle club did not feel comfortable entering into any sort of agreement regarding the Van Peenen Park as of the Sept.

19 meeting, and she requested the committee give the group more time to work with the city to find a resolution agreeable to all parties.

Kirk Johnson, former city council member and avid mountain biker, said he is proud of the work Decorah Human Powered Trails has done to make Decorah what he called a premier mountain biking and hiking destination.

“Prohibiting horses in Decorah’s City Parks is within your duties as the caretakers of our fragile parks,” he told the board. “Any increase in the use by horses would be detrimental in the short and long term.”

Parks and rec board member Kathy Bakken said she feels officials have made a good start in discussing the issue in hopes of

developing a solution.

“We are adults and are able to have discussions of pros and cons, and the more information we get from people, the better,” Bakken said. “We don’t want to exclude anyone.”

Fellow board member Brian Fuhrman voiced his frustration at the lack of progress regarding a compromise between the groups.

“This is the third time we’ve had a conflict with horses — they can use the legacy trails and not the single-track trails, but it appears the horseback riders are operating under bad faith and are not sticking to the plan,” Fuhrmann said. “How is this going to be any different if we allow it to work itself out? We just keep running into the same issue.”

Park and Rec Director Marc Holtey and Board Chair Rich Gaard jointly suggested any vote or decision be tabled, and the board agreed to put off a decision until a later date. The next board’s next meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Oct. 17.

AUCTION CALENDAR SATURDAY, OCT. 5 - 9 a.m. at the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds Danan Lansing building. Large 2 party household & collectable auction. Owners Ron & Sheryl Juve and Karla Olson. Ron Juve Auctioneer 563-379-0927.

SATURDAY, OCT. 12 - 8:30 a.m. The Late Carleton “Corky” Kittleson Collection & Others.

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Holland Brothers Construction was started in 1950 by Harold, Fred and Frank Holland following Harold’s return from WWII. HBC started doing drainage work with a dragline and grew to 150 employees as a civil grading contractor doing county road and state highway projects in Iowa, then venturing into Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Harold, Fred and Frank officially retired in 1992 with a large equipment auction in Decorah, bringing people to Decorah from throughout the U.S. In the fall of 1992, Jeff (son of Harold) and Bill (son of Fred) began operations as JB Holland Construction with five employees, most of which were former Holland Brothers employees. They started doing small county grading projects much like their fathers. They expanded their client list to include airport runway construction, landfill cell construction and wastewater treatment facilities. They also began to perform grading for private sector large industrial site developments.

One of the company’s biggest growth periods was during the ethanol building boom in the early 2000s when JB Holland did site work for numerous ethanol sites in Iowa and Nebraska – including Homeland Energy near Lawler, Iowa. At this time, JB Holland grew to almost 100 employees.

It was during the ethanol phase that JB Holland started to work with soil stabilization – a process of mixing a product such as cement powder or flyash into the soil to improve the soil strength.

Jeff Holland retired from JB Holland Construction in 2019.

Currently ushering in its third generation, JB Holland now has over 60 employees with multiple crews performing general earthwork/grading operations, two utility crews typically performing pipe installations and up to three crews performing soil stabilization that travel throughout the Midwest.

SINCE 1992

“a treble fishing hook still stuck in her left shoulder blade area” as well as visible bruising on her elbow and legs. Hill told deputies he and the victim had been in an argument the previous night, according to the complaint. Hill was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 3:20 p.m. Sept. 15.

Michael Duane Johnson, age 64, of Castalia was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 6:50 p.m. Monday, Sept. 16 on the charge of domestic abuse/assault — first offense. A criminal complaint said the victim claimed Johnson pushed her to the ground and struck her in the face. Johnson admitted an argument had taken place, according to the complaint, but he denied striking the victim.

Loren Victor Trappe, age 56, of West Union was transported from a West Union residential facility and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 11:10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18 on an arrest warrant for violation of his probation.

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

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Anna Wheat, age 18, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 6:50 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13 to serve two consecutive days.

Court records show the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office conducted a welfare check on a residence on Pine Street in Ridgeway.

Deputies discovered 31-year-old Matthew Boehmler of Cedar Rapids and 18-year-old Dawn Elizabeth Peterson of Ridgeway at the residence. A criminal complaint said deputies observed a marijuana grinder and a green leafy substance in plain view. Peterson admitted the items were hers, according to the complaint. She was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 10:50 p.m. the same day. Boehmler provided “a different spelling of his last name as well as different dates of birth” to the deputies, but they were able to confirm his identity, learning he was wanted in Black Hawk County. Deputies also discovered a syringe and several baggies of a substance which field tested as methamphetamine.

Boehmler was charged with possession of a controlled substance — third or subsequent offense — and providing false identification information. He was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 9:50 p.m. the same day.

Dawn Elizabeth Peterson, age 18, of Ridgeway was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana at approximately 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 in the area of Pike Street in Ridgeway.

Scott Richard Hill, age 49, of Decorah was charged with domestic abuse/assault at approximately 1:16 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 15 in the 1700 block of Old Stage Road in Decorah. Deputies were called to the WinnMed emergency room that morning. The victim claimed Hill had “shoved her twice in their home,” colliding with a cabinet containing fishing tackle. The victim also accused Hill of grabbing her and throwing her on the ground multiple times. Deputies reported

To apply, mail resume to 1813 Trout Run Rd. Decorah, IA 52101 or e-mail to finholt@finholtconstruction.com

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office

38-4-DL-12

When the Decorah Human Powered Trails group and the Winneshiek County Saddle Club met in August for a discussion regarding activities inside Decorah’s Van Peenen Park, City Manager Travis Goedken had hoped the two groups would be able to put several decades of animosity to bed. That meeting did not make much headway. Per Goedken’s instructions, any further action or decision regarding the usage of Van Peenen Park is to be made by the city’s Park and Recreation Board.

Barbara Barnhart Van Peenen Memorial Park is at the center of the dispute. The park boasts a 4.6-mile trail loop, pine forests and numerous hiking paths. The park was dedicated to the city in 1976 by Dr. Hubert John Van Peenen III in honor of his wife Barbara Barnhart Van Peenen, who was an avid horse lover.

According to newspaper archives from the time, the family intended for the land to be maintained in its natural state for hikers, birdwatchers, cross country skiers and horseback riders. Included in the deed were stipulations that the land not be used — among other things — for hunting or by motorized vehicles. In more recent years, the park was opened to mountain bikers, and numerous mountain biking trails have been developed and added to existing trails.

Goedken indicated a more recent issue arose as users — such as hikers and mountain bikers — disagreed with horseback riders on where each respective activity should be permitted.

Members of the Winnesh-

iek County Saddle Club have used the park’s trails for nearly 50 years and are working to keep Barbara Barnhart’s love of horses a priority in the park.

The topic came up for discussion again during the Decorah Parks and Recreation Board’s Sept. 19 meeting. Several dozen chairs had to be added to the meeting room to accommodate the number of residents attending in support of their respective organizations, and numerous members of the audience clamored to address the board once the meeting was opened to public comment.

Bruce Ventura, a self-described avid bird watcher, argued the installation of new mountain bike trails had destroyed numerous bird nesting areas, claiming a bulldozer passed right through a prime bird habitat while putting in a new trail. He proposed to the board place a moratorium on trail building until such time a master plan which could identify all the users, dog walkers, bikers and bird watchers and accommodate them safely.

“Trail runners, hikers and bikers don’t feel safe giving way to horses,” said NHPT President Nick Pearch, later adding, “The most disrespectful thing I have noticed is poop left

39-2-DL-17

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER

Law Enforcement

38-4-DL-12

Van Peenen discussion tabled in hope of compromise

-38-4-DL-12-

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PUBLIC NOTICES

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE WINNESHIEK COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION To change the use of the land at the following described property: • Lot 2 of 1 in the Northeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter, in Section 18, of Township 99 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M. Winneshiek County, Iowa.

• The Parcel is located on the West side of 223rd Ave at the intersection of 223rd Ave and Hwy 52 North of Decorah. Parcel will encompass approx 5.17 acres.

The application is made by: Tommy & Ashley Askelson The following change in the zoning ordinance is to permit the construction of a single-family residence.

From the present zoning classification of: A-1 Agricultural District To the proposed zoning classification of: AR, Agricultural Residential District.

A public hearing will be held by the Winneshiek County Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, Oc.t 8, 2024 at 7:00pm. in the Board of Supervisors Office, Courthouse Annex Building, 201 West Main St. Decorah, Iowa, at which time you may appear, if you so desire, either in person or by agent or attorney in opposition to or support of the proposed request. If you would prefer not to attend in person please contact the Zoning office at 563-387-4080 for remote log in information and link..

Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 26, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JULIE JARVIS, DECEASED. PROBATE NO. ESPR 016326 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Julie Jarvis, Deceased, who died on or about March 6, 2024: You are hereby notified that on September 12, 2024, the undersigned was appointed administrator of the estate.

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

Dated on September 12, 2024.

Jessica Hermans, Administrator of the estate 2975 Cedar Lake Fairbault, MN 55021 Jeremy L. Thompson, ICIS#: AT0009569 Attorney for the Administrator Putnam, Thompson & Casper, P.L.L.C. 801 Commerce Drive, Suite 1 P. O. Box 70 Decorah, IA 52101 Date of second publication: October 3, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 26 & October 3, 2024

CITY OF DECORAH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND INVITATION FOR PROPOSALS FOR DISPOSAL OF CITY WOOD CHIPS TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: You are hereby given notice that the City of Decorah, Iowa is proposing to dispose of wood chips from the Decorah Yard Waste Site (“Yard Waste Site”) to Jewell Enterprizes Incorporated (“Jewell”) on the following terms: a. The City will deliver the wood chips to Jewell’s operation that is within approximately 6.5 of the City Yard Waste Site, and the delivery will be completed at a location with reasonable access to a public road; b. Jewell shall accept a minimum of 150 cubic yards of wood chips; and c. The conveyance of excess wood chips to Jewell shall continue for so long as convenient to the City and may be discontinued at any time by the City or Jewell; However, Jewell may only discontinue the agreement after receipt of a minimum of 150 cubic yards of wood chips.

The Council invites other parties interested in receiving the excess wood chips to submit proposals that are on the same terms as the proposal to dispose of the wood chips to Jewell, or that are more favorable to the City. Any such proposals must be in writing, are conditioned on the party agreeing to accept a minimum of 150 cubic tons of wood chips, and that the City may discontinue the agreement and any time, and clearly state the following: a. location of the delivery of the wood chips; b. use of wood chips; c..start date the party will accept the wood chips; and d. the name, address, phone number, and email address of the party making the proposal.

Interested parties may submit a written proposal no later than 4:00 P.M. on October 1, 2024, at the following address: City of Decorah, ATTN: City Manager, 400 Claiborne Dr., Decorah, Iowa 52101.

The City Council reserves the right to refuse any and all proposals for the disposal wood chips.

The City Council shall hold a public hearing on said proposal to dispose of the wood chips on October 7, 2024, at 5:45 PM., at City Hall during its regular Council meeting. After said public hearing, the Council shall consider making a decision on the disposal of the wood chips, whether to Jewell as proposed or to anyone submitting an alternative proposal as set forth above. The City Council may negotiate any final terms after the public hearing, so long as said terms meet at least the terms of the proposed disposal to Jewell.

By order of the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa. /s/ Keri Sand Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 26, 2024 NOTICE OF MEETING FOR APPROVAL OF DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT WlTH DECORAH REAL ESTATE FUND LP AND AUTHORIZATION OF ANNUAL APPROPRIATION TAX INCREMENT PAYMENTS The City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa (the “City”), will meet at the Decorah Council Chambers, on October 7, 2024, at 5:45 p.m., at which time and place proceedings will be instituted and action taken to consider approval of a Development Agreement between the City and Decorah Real Estate Fund LP (the “Developer”), in connection with the redevelopment of existing buildings by the Developer into a mixed-use facility including upper story housing and ground floor commercial units on certain real property in the Central Business District Urban Renewal Area. The Agreement provides for certain financial incentives to the Developer in the form of incremental property tax payments in a total amount not exceeding $350,000 as authorized by Section 403.9 of the Code of Iowa.

The agreement to make incremental property tax payments to the Developer will not be a general obligation of the City, but will be payable solely and only from incremental property tax revenues generated within the Central Business District Urban Renewal Area. Some or all of the payments under the Development Agreement may be made subject to annual appropriation by the City Council.

At the meeting, the City Council will receive oral or written objections from any resident or property owner of the City. Thereafter, the City Council may, at the meeting or at an adjournment thereof, take additional action to approve the Development Agreement or may abandon the proposal.

This notice is given by order of the City Council of Decorah, Iowa, in accordance with Section 403.9 of the Code of Iowa. Keri Sand City Clerk Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 26, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VIRGINIA A. BOLDT DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016325 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Virginia A. Boldt, Deceased, who died on or about February 28, 2024: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the September 12, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Virginia A. Boldt, deceased, bearing date of September 28, 1991, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Cheryl A. Gulbranson 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 September 13, 2024 Cheryl A. Gulbranson Executor of Estate 3432 Highlandville Road Decorah, IA 52101 Jana Evelsizer Olson ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 563-382-2959 Email: jana.olson@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: September 26, 2021 Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 19 & 26, 2024

Board Minutes September 16, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am September 16, 2024 with Kelsay, Vick, Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order.

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

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting and the liquor license for Twin Springs Supper Club. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to adopt resolution 25-10, approving the updated Employee Handbook. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

The Board discussed the Recycling Supervisor position. They made a few changes to the job description and plan to begin the job search as soon as possible. They will leave the position open until a suitable candidate is hired.

On Monday September 16, 2024, the Board of Supervisors, ex-officio Board of County Canvassers for Winneshiek County, met to canvass the results of the Special School Election held on Tuesday September 10, 2024; with all members present. Moved

by Vick and seconded by Faldet to certify the canvass summary and abstracts of votes and declare Public Measure D and Public Measure E adopted. The results of Public Measure Z will be forwarded to Howard County for a second tier canvass. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Faldet to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, September 23, 2024. Motion carried unanimously.

Decorah(Iowa) Leader September 26, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LAURA MAE BOICE DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016323 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Laura Mae Boice, Deceased, who died on or about August 23, 2024: You are hereby notified that on September 6, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Laura Mae Boice, deceased, bearing date of November 14, 2022, was admitted to probate in the above-named court and that Darrell Baker was appointed Personal Representative(s) of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the District Court of the county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this Notice or one month from the date of mailing of this Notice to the surviving spouse and all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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 September 16, 2024.

Personal Representative(s) of the Estate Darrell Baker 2588 Village Road, Decorah, Iowa 52101 Larson Law Office By: Dennis G. Larson (IA. AT0004530) (MN 00060501) 312 W. Main St. Decorah, Iowa 52101 563-382-8449 / 5936 Attorney for Darrell Baker, Personal Representative(s) Date of second publication: October 3, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 26 & October 3, 2024

In the Iowa District Court in and for Winneshiek County In the matter of the estate of Patricia J. Pavlovec, deceased Probate No. ESPR 016320 Notice of appointment of administrator and notice to creditors To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Patricia J. Pavlovec, Deceased, who died on or about March 13, 2023: You are hereby notified that on the 16th day of September, 2024, the undersigned was appointed administrator of the estate.

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

Dated this 17th day of September, 2024.

Tim Willcockson, Administrator of the Estate P.O. Box 93092, Des Moines IA 50309 Anne E.H. Kruse Attorney for the Administrator Anne E.H. Kruse, P.C. P.O. Box 359 McGregor, IA 52157 Phone: 563-873-8912 Fax: 319-377-8147 Date of second publication: October 3, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 26 & October 3, 2024

September 16, 2024 The regular meeting was called to order by Mayor Lorraine Borowski at 5:45 PM. The meeting was held at the Decorah Council Chambers and electronically.

The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Members present: Randy Schissel, Emily Neal, Kirsten Olson, Christopher Miculinich, Brent Parker, Steve Zittergruen, Mayor Lorraine Borowski, City Manager Travis Goedken, and City Clerk Keri Sand Chris Troendle, Regional Housing Planner of Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission, presented to council their annual report with a request for funding for the future.

Consent agenda was presented. a. Minutes of the September 3, 2024, Council Meeting b. Claims c. Resolution 3490 Setting Public Hearing on Amending Title 17-Zoning of the Decorah Municipal Code Regarding Can Redemption Centers as Principal Permitted Uses d. Decorah 2024 Stormwater Improvements Project Change Order#1-Final Project Quantity Adjustments e. Decorah 2024 Stormwater Improvements Project Pay App #2 (Final) f. Resolution 3491 Approving Decorah 2024 Stormwater Improvements Project as Complete g. Amendment for Class C Retail Alcohol License-Blazing Star h. Renewal of Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service-JT Haymarket LLC i. Renewal of Class E Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service and CateringToppling Goliath j. Renewal of Class E Retail Alcohol License-Decorah Mart Schissel made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented, Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Mayor Borowski opened the public hearing on the proposed amendment to the Central Business District Urban Renewal Area and Urban Renewal Plan at 6:06 PM. No public comment. Mayor Borowski closed the public hearing at 6:07 PM. Neal made a motion to approve Resolution 3492 to declare necessity and establish an urban renewal area, pursuant to Section 403.4 of the Code of Iowa and approve an urban renewal plan amendment for the Central Business District Urban Renewal Area. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Neal made a motion to approve the first reading of an ordinance providing for the division of taxes levied on taxable property in the September 2024 Addition to the Central Business District. Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Parker made a motion to approve Resolution 3493 setting a public hearing on proposed development agreement with Decorah Real Estate Fund LP, including annual appropriation tax increment payments. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Mayor Borowski opened the public hearing at 6:21 PM on the proposed designation of the Decorah East Side Residential Urban Renewal Area and Urban Renewal Plan. No public comment. Mayor Borowski closed the public hearing at 6:22 PM. Schissel made a motion to approve Resolution 3494 declaring necessity and establish an urban renewal area pursuant to Section 403.4 of the Code of Iowa and to approve urban renewal plan and projects for the Decorah East Side Residential Urban Renewal Area. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Schissel, Olson, Neal, Parker, Miculinich. Nays: Zittergruen.

Motion carried.

Schissel made a motion to approve the first reading of an ordinance providing for the division of taxes levied on taxable property in the Decorah East Side Residential Urban Renewal Area pursuant to Section 403.19 of the Code of Iowa. Neal seconded the motion.

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

Schissel made a motion to approve Resolution 3495 setting a public hearing to approve a development agreement with High Point East, L.L.C. including annual appropriation tax increment payments. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Schissel, Olson, Parker, Neal, Miculinich. Nays: Zittergruen. Motion carried.

Olson made a motion to approve Resolution 3496 establishing the Downtown Economic Development Grant Program, Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Olson, Neal, Parker, Miculinich, Zittergruen.

Nays: Schissel. Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve Resolution 3497 stating a public purpose for electricity use for the Live on Winnebago Event, Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve the first reading of Ordinance 1335 amending Section 10.52.090 of the Decorah Municipal Code regarding School Zones. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Schissel made a motion to waive the second and third reading and adopt Ordinance 1335. Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Schissel, Zittergruen, Olson, Neal, Miculinich, Parker.

Motion carried.

Schissel made a motion to approve the C-3 Design from Koreana at 207 West Water Street, Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

The council discussed the noise ordinance that City Manager Travis Goedken presented.

Goedken will bring the ordinance back for more discussion in the future.

Mayor Borowski announced that there is an opening on the Decorah Human Rights Commission.

Meeting adjourned at 7:37 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Payroll,9/13/24............................$204,615.09 Fibersmith Co., Fiber Consultation .....................$75,000.00 Ia Dnr, Twin Springs Camp Area Water Supply...............................................$75.00 Petty Cash, Postage Police...................$53.75 Ups, Postage.........................................$29.68 Ace Hardware, ParksSupplies............$286.02 Acentek, Fees.....................................$270.00 Aia, Campground Apparel..............$3,453.90 Airespring, Services...........................$276.75 Alliant Energy, ElectricBills.........$43,895.64 Amazon, Office Supplies...................$618.61 Black Hills Energy, Gas Bills.........$2,620.14 Bodensteiner Implement, Parts.......$1,156.95 Bremer, Louann, Janitorial..............$1,000.00 Bruening’S, Parks................................$49.01 Calibre Press, Training.......................$219.00 Campground Commander, Usage Fee.....................................$1,070.56 Card Service Center, Wasabi .............$259.15 Casper’S, RepairA/C.........................$474.30 Cdw Government, Equipment........... $901.22 Croell, Street Patch ........................$1,056.00 Cs Solar, Campground....................$3,684.26 Dalco, Supplies Campground............$329.40 Decorah Comm School District, Icn Internet...................................... $140.77 Decorah Electric, Service Call........... $210.00 Decorah LeaderStreetOperator .........$589.54 Decorah Rental, Power Screed Rental................................................$72.00 Decorah Tire, Tire Disposal-Trailer...$165.00 Decorah Vet, Exam/LetterDog............. $21.04 Demco, Supplies................................ $203.67 Driftless Yoga, Programming.............$100.00 Eurofins, Testing................................$181.90 Fareway, Rec Supplies.................... $1,128.24 First Supply, First Supply-Parts.........$455.36 Fisk’S, Bioretention Cell Project Sprinkler.......................................$1,316.73 Forestry Suppliers,Ppe Grant Purchase..........................................$488.00 Galls, Uniform...................................$150.99 Garrett Alan Willie, Dhpt-Trail Work................................................ $603.75 Green Repair, Green Repair-Mower.... $29.50 Haan, Mark, Services......................$2,450.00 Hexom Gardens, Landscaping............. $50.00 Hubka Construction, Sidewalk Reimbursement ........................... $2,228.00 Ia Dot, Asphalt Emulsion................... $755.00 Ice House Ice, Ice............................ $1,480.00 Icit Treasurer, Training......................... $75.00

PUBLIC NOTICE STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION 1. Publication Title - Decorah Leader 2. Publication Number - 151000 3. Filing Date - 09-25/2024 4. Issue Frequency - Weekly 5. Number of Issues Published Annually - 52 6. Annual Subscription Price - $57.00 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication Decorah Leader 110 Washington Street, Ste #4, Decorah, IA 52101/Winneshiek County; Contact Person – Zane Weston; Telephone 641-228-3211 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher- Decorah Leader, 801 Riverside Drive, Charles City, IA 50616 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor - Publisher - Christopher J. Hall, 801 Riverside Drive, Charles City, IA 50616; - Editor - Seth Boyes, 110 Washington Street, Ste #4, Decorah, IA 52101 10. Owner (If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock.

If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.) – Enterprise Media, Inc, 801 Riverside Dr., Charles City, IA 50616 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities - Enterprise Media, Inc, 801 Riverside Dr., Charles City, IA 50616 13. Publication Title - Decorah Leader 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below - 9-19-2024 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Average No. Copies Actual No. Copies Ea. issue during of single issue published Preceding 12 month nearest To Filing date a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run) 2100 1900 b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail) (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser ’s proof copies, and exchange copies) 343 243 (2) Mailed In-County Subscriptions stated on Form 3541(include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser ’s proof copies, and exchange copies) 1202 1221 (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS® 390 275 (4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g. First- Class Mail®) 0 0 c. Total Paid Distribution 1935 1839 d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail) (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PS Form 3541 0 11 (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Included on PS Form 3541 0 22 (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed At Other Classes through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) 0 0 (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means) 0 0 e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution 0 33 f. Total Distribution 1935 1872 g. Copies not Distributed 165 28 h. Total 2100 1900 i. Percent Paid 100.00 98.24 16. Total circulation includes electronic copies. Report circulation on PS Form 3526-X worksheet a. Paid Electronic Copies 48 43 b. Total Paid Print Copies (Line 15C) + Paid Electronic Copies 1938 1882 c. Total Print Distribution (Line 15F) + Paid Electronic Copies 1983 1915 d. Percent Paid (Both Print & Electronic Copies) 100.00 98.28 I Certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (Electronic & Print are paid above a nominal price.

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership.

If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed in the 09-26-2024 issue of this publication.

18. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

Christopher J. Hall, Publisher

11

Impact Coffee, Program Expense........$25.00 Imwca, 24-25 Work Comp 3Rd Installment....................................$7,586.00 Invision, Architecture Professional Fees......................... $1,050.00 Iowa One Call, Iowa One Call Services .......................................... $121.90 Iroc Web Design, Hosting And Domain....................................$150.00 Isg, DahlenProperty........................ $5,650.00 John Deere Finanial, Pool Supplies...$587.60 K & W Coatings, Ronan South Tank Rehab........................................... $5,922.75 Kanopy, Film Database...................... $128.00 Kent Pitzen, Campground Reimbursement.................................$40.00 Keystone Lab, Tthm/Haa5 Testing....$400.25 Kwik Trip, Fuel...............................$5,442.74 Laura Gillespie, August 2024 Cleaning Services.........................$2,226.00 Leon’S Auto & Truck Repair, Service Ford F150........................................ $611.00 Lulu & Bb’S, Dog Food......................$58.99 Lydon Electric Motors, Breathing Air Compressor Motor.......................... $419.40 Malcom Enterprises, Library Garbage........................................... $920.00 Metering & Technology Solutions, Metering/Tech-Meters.................. $4,926.42 Mi Energy, Electric Bills................. $2,963.38 Mississippi Welders, Extinguisher Inspection..........................................$78.60 Ness Pumping, Septic Pumping.........$545.00 Olson Explosives, Fuel................... $1,850.39 Overdrive, Books............................... $489.18 Pitney Bowes, Lease Payment.............$81.30 Police Legal Sciences, Training......$2,080.00 Questcdn.Com, 2024 Quarry Street Improvements................................. $264.00 Racom, Repair......................................$65.00 Rct Sewer, Sewer Cleaning...........$10,121.24 Reliance Standard, September 2024 Life Insurance................................. $455.00 Ricoh, Copies ....................................$265.02 Ridgeway Lumber, Kilties Shelving..........................................$310.90 Samuelson, Riley, Riley Samuelson-Graphic Design............$522.50 Schwan’S, Resale Products.................. $46.54 Secretary Of State, Notary-Pankow..... $30.00

Skyline Const, Sidewalk Repair .... $1,197.28 Spahn & Rose, Spahn & Rose .......... $210.02 State Hygienic Lab, State Hygienic Lab-Lab F........................................ $751.00 Storey Kenworthy, Building Supplies........................................... $813.60 The Landing Market, Program Supplies..............................$12.00 Tollefson, Jim, Janitorial Exterior...... $140.00 Truck Country, Truck#1..................$1,484.12 Uline, Supplies................................... $160.17 Unity Point, DrugScreening............... $126.00 Usa Blue Book, Supplies................... $871.43 Verizon, Jul-Aug2024.....................$1,536.63 Voltmer, Traffic Signal Repair........... $250.00 Winn Co Recorder, RecordingFees......$56.00 Zarnoth Brush Works, Gutter Broom.................................. $133.00 Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 26, 2024

Notice of a Satellite Absentee Voting Station Details for a satellite absentee voting station for the General Election to be held November 5, 2024: The location of the satellite station: Dahl Centennial Union, Luther College, 700 College Dr. Decorah, IA Date and Time: Wednesday, October 16th, 2024 9:00am – 3:00pm Precincts for which ballots will be available: Precincts 7 and 8 only. This includes Decorah Ward 4 and Decorah Ward 5.

Voter registration forms will be available for new registrations in the county and changes in the registration records of people who are currently registered within the county may also be made.

Decorah(Iowa) Leader September 26, 2024

Public Notices ELECTRIC POWER LINES AND GRAIN BINS DON’T MIX! Please contact your local electric cooperative/utility if you plan to build a grain bin in the vicinity of an electric distribution line or electric transmission line.

Dairyland Power Cooperative owns and operates transmission lines in Northeastern Iowa, which provide electrical energy to local rural electric cooperatives and municipalities. Those transmission lines are operated at voltages that greatly exceed local distribution and service lines that may be located on your property. Dairyland will provide assistance in planning the placement of the grain bin near our transmission line to provide a safe environment for everyone working and living around grain bins.

The State of Iowa requires specific clearances for electric lines around grain bins, with different standards for those filled by portable and permanent augers, conveyors and elevators. The drawings show specific clearances required for each scenario.

Clearance Envelope for Grain Bins Filled by Permanently Installed Augers, Conveyors, or Elevators

Source: American National Standards Institute (ANSI) C2-2017 “National Electrical Safety Code,” Rule F-234-4(a), Page 138 Legend P = probe clearance 55m (18 ft) required by Rule 234F1a H = horizontal clearance 4.8 m (15 ft) required by Rule 234F1b T = transition clearance V1 = vertical clearance above a building required by Rule 234C (Table 234-1) V2 = vertical clearance required by Rule 232B (Table 232-1 or 232-2)

Figure 234-4(a)-Clearance envelope for grain bins filled by permanently installed augers, conveyors, or elevators

Clearance Envelope for Grain Bins Filled by Permanently Installed Augers, Conveyors, or Elevators Source: American National Standards Institute (ANSI) C2-2017 “National Electrical Safety Code,” Rule F-234-4(b), Page 139 Follows the ground slope

B= Height of highest filling or probing port on grain bin A= B + 5.5 m (16 ft) D= Variable horizontal dimension

Flat

ELEVATION

In the area of sloped clearance, the vertical clearance is reduced by 300 mm (1ft) for each additional 450 mm (1.5 ft) of horizontal distance from the grain bin.

LOADING SIDE

NONLOADING SIDE

4.6 m (15 ft) Rule 232 area Area of sloped clearance

See Rule 232

Area of sloped clearance

PLAIN VIEW

Figure 234-4(b)-Clearance envelope for grain bins filled by portable augers, conveyors, or elevators.

According to the Iowa Electric Safety Code found in Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 199 – 25.2(3)b., your local electric utility may refuse to provide electric service to any grain bin built near an existing electric line which does not provide the clearances required by The American National Standards Institutes (ANSI)C2-2017 “National Electrical Safety Code,” Rule 234F. This Paragraph “b” shall apply only to grain bins loaded by portable augers, conveyors or elevators built after September 9, 1992, or to grain bins loaded by permanently installed augers, conveyors or elevator systems installed after December 24, 1997. (As adopted by the Iowa Utilities Commission) Dairyland Power Cooperative is required by the Iowa Utilities Commission to provide this annual notice to farmers, farm lenders, grain bin merchants, and city and county zoning officials. If you have any questions concerning clearance regulations, please call our Real Estate and Right of Way Department, Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 4 pm, at 608-788-4000. You may also write to us at the following address: DAIRYLAND POWER COOPERATIVE, Attn: Real Estate Dept., 3200 East Avenue South, P.O. Box 817, La Crosse, WI 54602-0817.

September 23, 2024 Decorah(Iowa) Leader September 26, 2024

Decorah (Iowa) Leader • September 26, 2024

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES/NEWS

12 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

Absenteeism

student reaches that 10 percent mark, the district is then required to report the absences to the Winneshiek County Attorney’s office, and families are to be notified of the issue via certified mail. Should a student reach the 15 percent threshold, the district must create an action plan to prevent further absences and meet with the student and family on a regular basis.

“This meeting will involve the student, parents or guardians and school officials, where we will collaborate to address the reasons for the absences and

create actionable steps to improve attendance,” the district told families. “Should the student and their parent or guardian not attend the meeting, fail to agree to a plan or violate its terms, the school will notify the county attorney.”

The new state law says the county attorney may then initiative a proceeding to resolve the issue — failure to participate in the meetings or violation of an agreed upon plan could be considered a misdemeanor offense, according to state law cited in the new bill, but a court would

have the option to require the individual to perform unpaid community service in lieu of a fine or jail time.

Once a student misses 20 percent of school in a grading period, they are considered truant by law, again requiring a notice to the county attorney and additional certified letters be mailed to parents.

“These new policies are intended to keep students engaged and supported in their education while addressing absenteeism early,” the district said in its letter to families. “We appreciate

your cooperation and commitment to your child’s education.”

Decorah School Board President Cindy Goodner expressed concern during last week’s special session as to whether the new legislation will require additional staffing and cause added expense. Cronin indicated other districts have expressed similar concerns over the costs associated with staff potentially preparing and sending the certified letters.

“It’s going to be more work,” Cronin said. “More time and more meetings.”

may be designated by ordinance or resolution of the city council as school stop zones shall be equipped with movable stop signs to be placed in the street or streets at the limits of said zones facing toward the oncoming vehicles which are to be stopped. During the hours when said school stop signs are in place, every motor vehicle shall come to a complete stop as near as practicable at the property line of the street to which entrance is to be made, or to the nearest line of the crosswalk thereat.

The driver having so stopped may then proceed with caution when no pedestrians are in the crosswalk and having yielded to vehicles not obliged to stop or yield.

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

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

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

Date of First Reading: September 16, 2024.

Date of Second Reading: September 16, 2024 Roll Call Vote: Councilmen Voting Aye: Zittergruen, Olson, Parker, Neal, Miculinich, Schissel Councilmen Voting Nay: None PASSED AND ADOPTED this 16th day of September, 2024

City of Decorah /s/ Lorraine Borowski, Mayor ATTEST: /s/ Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader September 26, 2024

Girls Wrestling Coach, Mhari Pitt-High School Associate.

Superintendent Dr. Cronin updated the board on new legislation, Iowa Senate File 2435, regarding statewide attendance policies. The policies define chronic absenteeism as missing 10% or more of days in a grading period, if a child misses 15% or more in a grading period, school officials will request an engagement meeting, and if a child is absent 20% or more of the grading period, schools must notify the County Attorney.

All these procedures are required regardless of the reason for the absences. The board will support the administration in adhering to the new state law. Motion: Director Petersburg moved, seconded by Director Sand to approve the first reading of board policies Long Range Needs Assessment 103, 103.

R1, Compulsory Attendance 501.3, Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy 501.9, 501.9R1, Annual Review of Policies: Parent and Family Engagement 505.8, 505.8R1, Education Records 506.1, 506.1E1, 506.1E2, 506.31E3, 506.1E4, 506.1ES, 506.1E6, 406.1E7, 506.1E8, 506.1R1, Student Directory Information 506.2, 506.2E1, 506.2R1, Student Photographs 506.3, and Student Library Circulation Records 506.4. Motion carried by all voting aye.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:17 p.m. /s/ Darlene Woodhouse, Board Secretary Decorah (Iowa) Leader Sept. 26, 2024

Public Notices

Help Wanted

Decorah Community School Board Special School Board Meeting Minutes Central Administration Office Thursday, September 19, 2024 12:00 p.m. (noon) Present: President Cindy Goodner, Directors: Ron Fadness, Brian Petersburg, Carole Sand, and Aaron Zander.

Superintendent Dr. Tim Cronin, Director of Business Services Cathy Dietzenbach, Board Secretary Darlene Woodhouse, staff, news media, and guests. President Goodner and Director Zander participated via Zoom.

President Goodner called to order the special school board meeting at 12:00 p.m. Director Petersburg read the mission statement.

Motion: Director Sand moved, seconded

by Director Fadness to approve the agenda as presented. Motion carried by all voting aye.

New Business: Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Petersburg to approve the personnel listing as presented.

Motion carried by all voting aye.

Hires: Kurtis Johnson-Director of Building & Grounds, Paige Darnell-8th Grade Assistant Volleyball Level E, Step 1 prorated, Chloe Chyle-Middle School Associate, Step 1. Resignations: Aaron Hanson-Middle School Wrestling Coach, Lycia Jens-Middle School Associate, Matt Simon-Assistant

Decorah Community Schools 2024-2025

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Winneshiek County is accepting applications for Recycling Supervisor. Job descriptions and applications are available in the County Auditor’s Office and online at www.winneshiekcounty. iowa.gov. Send complete application, resume, three professional references and cover letter to the Auditor’s Office, 201 W Main St, Decorah, IA 52101 or email to auditor@co.winneshiek.ia.us.

Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

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Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent.

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TO APPLY

For more information and a complete job description, visit www.decorahia.org or call 563-382-3717. Send application, resume, cover letter and a minimum of three professional, work-related references to: Kristin Torresdal, Director, Decorah Public Library, 202 Winnebago St., Decorah, IA 52101 or ktorresdal@decorahlibrary.org.

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Applications accepted until position has been filled. The first review of applications will be October 4, 2024.

M/F Disabled and Veteran EEO/AA Employer

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

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Building and grounds director named In other business, the board recently approved the hiring of Kurtis Johnson of Decorah as the new director of building and grounds for the district.

He replaces Greg Schaller, who retired from the position last spring. District Director of Technology and Information Shawn Gordon has served as interim director in recent months.

Johnson was previously employed by Casper Plumbing and Heating in Decorah. He is expected to start Sept. 30.

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The superintendent said he has met with representatives of the Winneshiek County Attorney’s Office regarding the new regulations, and Cronin expects school staff could also potentially use Powerschool software tools to help generate e-mail alerts for parents if students cross the thresholds defined in the new state law The Decorah School Board must still hold additional readings of the proposed changes to its attendance policy before they become official — state law allows additional readings to be waived in some instances, but the school board chose not to exercise that ability at this time.

The second reading of the

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CITY OF DECORAH ORDINANCE NO. 1335 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING DECORAH CODE OF ORDINANCES SECTION 10.52.090 -SCHOOL ZONES WHEREAS, the City of Decorah is committed to promoting the safety and welfare of its residents, with particular emphasis on safeguarding children and other vulnerable pedestrians in school zones; and WHEREAS, increased traffic volumes and changing roadway conditions near schools necessitate the implementation of enhanced safety measures to ensure safer interactions between motorists and pedestrians; and WHEREAS, the City of Decorah has reviewed current best practices in traffic management and school zone safety and seeks to adopt amendments to its code to reflect these updated standards; and WHEREAS, it is in the public interest to reduce vehicular speeds, improve signage, and introduce other traffic control measures to minimize the risk of accidents and enhance the walkability of school zones; and WHEREAS, the City Council of Decorah finds that amending the city code to improve pedestrian safety in school zones is essential to the community’s continued development and well-being; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED

BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DECORAH, IOWA, AS FOLLOWS: That Decorah City Code Section 10.52.090 - School Zones is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: Section 10.52.090 - School Zones Such intersections and places as are or

continued from front district’s new policy is expected to take place during the board’s October meeting.

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

13

School of the Wild continued from front high levels of student engagement,” Bockman said. “By taking learning outdoors and offering hands-on activities, our students are more likely to connect with the learning. Studies show that active learning in natural settings has a positive effect on mental health, reducing stress and increasing overall well-being.”

Students learned about topics such as fossils and rocks, types of stone and testing, erosion and flood damage, karst topography, the Decorah crater, prehistoric animals, shelter-building, geologic layers, geocaching and prairie plants as well as how to use a compass and map.

“The School of the Wild pro-

gram encourages teamwork and collaboration as students work together in small groups, enhancing their social skills and building friendships,” Bockman said. “They also gain an appreciation for the diversity of life in our local ecosystems, learning how different species interact and depend on one another. We hope to inspire future generations to be informed and engaged stewards of our planet.”

Bockman said anytime teachers can make education interactive, authentic and engaging, it’s a win-win for education.

“We know these three things have a huge impact on student learning and retention,” she

said. “So, whenever possible, we immerse students in learning outside the classroom. Learning within their community environment will be incredibly meaningful for the students.”

The week’s outdoor curriculum will also provide many opportunities for problem-solving and critical thinking — skills Bockman said are essential not just in school, but in daily life and the students’ future careers.

“For many people, being outdoors can be stress-reducing, mood-improving and beneficial for mental health,” she said. “I hope our students see the value in just being in nature.”

The associate principal added that, without the school’s

fourth-grade teachers, the School of the Wild wouldn’t be possible.

“Carrie Lee’s fourth grade team worked incredibly hard to plan for this week, including locating funding, securing necessary supplies and instructors and preparing students for the week-long event,” Bockman said. “This included attending training over the summer and working closely with Winneshiek County Conservation and other area agencies. I commend them for the time and effort they have put into providing this opportunity for our students. This would not be happening without their hard work and dedication.”

Beth Bodensteiner reviews the states which border the Mississippi River with students as part of an educational session near Dunning’s Spring. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

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1. Simply write in the team you think will win in each of the 13 games, listed in the ads on this page and the “added picks,” next to the corresponding advertiser’s name and # on the entry form or online at www.decorahleader.com.

2. Every game must be marked or your ballot will be disqualified.

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persons tying for second place.

6. The contest is open to everyone, except employees of the Enterprise Media and their families.

7. Each person is allowed only one ballot.

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9. Each entry page must be in the Decorah Leader Office by 4:30 p.m. Friday or submitted online by 2 p.m. Friday.

10. Children age 12 and under not eligible.

11. Winners must claim prize money within 30 days at the Decorah Leader Office at 110 Washington St., Suite 4, Decorah.

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NAME ________________________________________ ADDRESS _____________________________________ CITY _________________________________________ PHONE _______________________________________ Clip & Send to Decorah Leader, PO Box 350, Decorah, IA 52101 or drop off at 110 Washington St., Suite 4, Decorah.

SPORTS

14 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

TV gains 375 yards on the ground in district rout over Central

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com

Turkey Valley routed Central Elkader on Friday night.

The Dittmer Sports Complex in Elkader saw a lot of points scored in Week Four of this particular high school football clash. The problem for the host Warriors was that the majority of those touchdowns scored came from the opponent – Mark Scott’s Trojans.

Turkey Valley (2-2, 2-1) encountered little resistance in its third 8-Man, District 3 contest of the fall as it pummeled Central, 58-22.

TV ran for 375 yards and bounced into the end zone eight times. The Trojans led 44-14 at

the break and proceeded to limit Central (1-3, 0-2) to just 76 yards on the ground – although all of the Warriors’ points came via their rushing attack.

“This was a good district win for the team. Offensively we moved the ball very well,” said Scott.

Treyton Franzen and Kaden Schmidt – both Trojan sophomores – each plunged into the end zone on rushing scores in the first quarter.

Then TV busted out for four scores in the second quarter – two by Trojan standout J.D. Kruse.

Kruse, a junior, is one of 8-Man’s most dangerous weapons on both sides of the ball as evident by his 82 yards re-

Trojan sophomore Treyton Franzen (21) carries the ball down the field as Jordan Kriener holds up the Central defense and quarterback Logan Busta looks on in the background. (Photo courtesy of Leah Kruse)

ceiving and two interceptions against the Warriors. He also led the Trojans with 11.5 tackles (10 solo) – two of them for loss.

Kruse is listed as the fourthbest receiver in terms of yardage through the air in 8-Man with 399 yards on the season. He has caught 15 passes for a yardsper-catch average of 26.6. He’s scored seven touchdowns in the passing game and leads TV in tackles with 35. His three picks on the year are also tops on the team.

TV junior signal caller Logan Busta scampered for a 37-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter. He also hooked up with Kruse for a 21-yard pass to start the second-quarter scoring for the Trojans.

Busta finished with 68 yards rushing and 70 yards passing.

Another Busta – sophomore Hugo Busta – had a superb game as well. Busta cranked out 109 yards rushing on just nine carries. He scored TV’s last touchdown on a 40-yard rush and also threw a 20-yard scoring strike to Kruse in the second quarter.

Schmidt and Franzen combined to rush for 147 yards and score four touchdowns.

Schmidt’s rushing scores came in the first and third quarters.

Franzen scored the game’s first touchdown on the ground and found the end zone from eight yards out on a pass from Logan Busta to finish off the first-half fireworks for TV. Central did throw for 160 yards courtesy of Griffen

Hammersland – who is an eighth-grader.

Hammersland punched it in the end zone two times on the ground and was 9-19 passing, but as stated before, Kruse picked him off twice.

“Defensively we gave up some yards passing and made a couple of assignment errors, but that is expected when you are a young team,” Scott said.

FIRST QUARTER TV - Treyton Franzen 1 run (run failed) TV - Kaden Schmidt 10 run (Hugo Busta pass from Logan Busta) CE - Griffen Hammersland 2 run (Hammersland run) SECOND QUARTER TV - J.D. Kruse 21 pass from L. Busta (Schmidt pass from L. Busta) CE - Braxton Bormann 6 run (run failed) TV - L. Busta 37 run (Tucker Reicks pass from L. Busta) TV - Kruse 20 pass from H. Busta (2 pt. play failed) TV - Franzen 8 pass from L. Busta (Schmidt run) THIRD QUARTER TV - Schmidt 3 run (Reicks pass from L. Busta) CE - Hammersland 20 run (Hammersland run) TV - H. Busta 40 run (pass failed) TURKEY VALLEY STATS Rushing - Kaden Schmidt 15-99, Treyton Franzen 12-48, Hugo Busta 9-109, Parker Reicks 9-42, Logan Busta 7-68, Caleb Kriener 4-9.

Passing - L. Busta 6-8-70, H. Busta 1-1-20.

Receiving - J.D. Kruse 6-82, Franzen 1-8.

Tackles - Kruse 11.5, Jordan Kriener 5, Hunter Kruse 5, Schmidt 3.5, H. Busta 3, Reicks 3, L. Busta 3, Franzen 2, Alex Hanson 1.5, Mitchell Kriener 1, Eli Holthaus 1, Tucker Reicks 0.5.

Interceptions - J.D. Kruse 2.

Kickoff returns - J.D. Kruse 2-42.

Punt returns - J.D. Kruse 3-43.

Kickoffs - J. Kriener 9-319.

Women’s wrestling to become Luther’s 11th female varsity team

Luther College President Jenifer K. Ward recently announced the addition of women’s wrestling as the college’s 11th varsity sport for women for the upcoming 2025-26 academic year.

“Luther has a long legacy of supporting its students’ desires to belong to teams, to learn discipline and resiliency and to compete,” Ward said. “We were among the first colleges to establish varsity teams for women, beginning in 1964 — well before Title IX legislation required us to. We will soon celebrate our 60th anniversary offering our women opportunities to participate in varsity athletics.”

Along with announcing the addition of the program, Ward established milestones for the upcoming months.

“This will be a planning year in 2024-25,” Ward said. “Our timeline is to use this fall and winter to get the word out to recruits that the program will begin next fall. We will begin a nationwide search for our first women’s wrestling coach this winter, so that we can hire as soon as possible after this wrestling season, and we will field our first team in the 2025-26 academic year.”

Athletic Director Renae Hartl and men’s wrestling coach Dave Mitchell joined Ward in her online announcement.

“With both the NCAA and the American Rivers Conference set to add women’s wrestling as a championship, the moment to join in is now,” Hartl said. “And with renovations underway at the future Gerdin Fieldhouse for Athletics and Wellness, including an expanded wrestling training space, the timing is perfect.”

“I have seen the growth of girls wrestling in the state of Iowa first-hand and I know many of the great coaches leading girls high school programs in Iowa and beyond,” Mitchell said. “We offered a girls’ wrestling team camp in 2023, and it grew significantly this year.

One of the top questions I get asked by girls and coaches at camp, and by our alumni and Luther wrestling fans, is, ‘When is Luther adding women’s wrestling?’”

For Luther, the addition of

women’s wrestling takes the college to 22 total varsity sports, with 11 for women and 11 for men.

It comes two years after the college added both men’s and women’s bowling as varsity teams.

“We’re proud to add to Luther’s legacy of being a college that promotes new athletic opportunities for women,” Hartl said. “With Luther adding the sport, the state of Iowa will lead the nation with the most collegiate women’s wrestling programs to date. With the recent announcements by the A-R-C and NCAA, I know this can open up recruiting opportunities for students from other states to come to Decorah.”

Mitchell added the attraction will also be local.

“Our wrestling community is eager to have opportunities for our local and regional girls to study and compete, and the timing is perfect to provide those opportunities right here,” Mitchell said. “The coach who leads this new program is coming into a strong wrestling support system in a strong girls wrestling region. For example, we have in Decorah both the girls state team champions and the girls wrestling coach of the year, Gene Adams, who was an All-American himself here at Luther.”

The visibility and strength of Luther’s existing men’s program provides another support for the decision.

“Luther is known nationwide for excellence in wrestling, and in the future, we expect to see that excellence on both the men’s and women’s teams,” Hartl said.

“The construction for our Gerdin Fieldhouse is underway, and those plans include a wrestling facility expansion and a dedicated women’s wrestling locker room, so the time is right to move swiftly to align our programming with our facility renovation,” Ward said.

At the recent NCAA Convention, the national organization endorsed the creation of divisional championships at each

level. When approved this fall, women’s wrestling became the 91st national championship offered by the NCAA, and Division III will lead the way with more than 60 member institutions sponsoring the sport.

Competition schedules cannot be determined until later this year, as both the A-R-C and NCAA are finalizing details of participation in their respective first years of competition. The total number of first-year participants may also be a factor.

“We won’t know for a while whether this will begin as open competition or also include team duals,” Hartl said. “What we do know is young women will have the opportunity to put on that famous Luther blue singlet and compete like a Norse.”

State and national organization leaders expressed their support for Luther’s addition of women’s wrestling.

“The addition of women’s wrestling at Luther College will no doubt have a generational impact for female athletes to come,” said Erin Gerlich, executive director of the Iowa Girls High School Athletics Union.

“As we look across our state and our country over recent years, girls wrestling is one of the fastest growing programs offered in sports. In Iowa alone,

we have consistently seen the number of high school female wrestlers grow exponentially each year and reports from the youth wrestling community show no signs of girls wrestling slowing down anytime soon.”

“On behalf of our NWCA Board of Directors, I extend a heartfelt thanks to the Luther College administration for recognizing and embracing the rising popularity of girls and women’s wrestling in a state that has always been synonymous with the sport,” said Mike Moyer, executive director of the National Wrestling Coaches Association. “Anytime we add more opportunities for young women to further their educational and athletic goals in college, it’s a win for our students and a win for our sport.”

Girls wrestling has grown exponentially in high schools since the IGHSAU sanctioned it, expanding from from 58 schools to 204 schools with teams and another 61 with cooperative sharing agreements.

“Iowa has become a leader in the collegiate world for women’s wrestling [LB1] , which allows our Iowa girls even more opportunity to pursue their wrestling dreams at the next level,” Gerlich added.

To learn more about Luther women’s wrestling, go to LutherNorse.com for updates and to find questionnaires for prospects interested in next year’s team.

Representing Turkey Valley on the cross country courses this fall are (l-r) Hazel Nieman, Bella Stika and Madalyn Vseteka.

(Photo by Becky Walz)

Trojans look to finish strong

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com The Turkey Valley Trojans are getting close to the time of the year that most cross country coaches call their “championship season.”

For Sarah Bakula and her Trojan harriers, that means more than half of her squad’s meets are complete after Tuesday’s run at Waukon.

“We’re training through the meets eventually with the goal to increase aerobic fitness,” said Bakula. “We’re looking toward the end of October, where districts and hopefully state are, where we’re going to peak and where we’re going to drop the mileage and focus on our best times of the year.”

TV ran at Starmont last week Tuesday and the temperature at the start of the girls race was unseasonably warm.

That mid-80-degree mercury isn’t always the best weather to run in, and the Trojans’ time reflected those less-than-ideal conditions.

“Biologically, our bodies can handle only so much heat,” said Bakula. “So your body is going to slow down and it’s going to get fatigued faster in general. I wouldn’t say that’s for everybody. Some people can certainly run really great in the heat.

It’s just not ideal.”

Bella Stika, a sophomore, clipped out on the 5K course at Starmont to a tune of 23:02.37, which placed her in the 34th position.

Stika’s sophomore teammate – Hazel Nieman – finished her race in a time of 23:37.86. Nieman is looking to improve on that 53rd placing the rest of the way in 2024. She’s eyeing a career PR that is well over a minute faster than that.

“She’s a lot stronger than she was last year. She didn’t even think she was going to run that fast last year,” said Bakula of Nieman’s PR. “I think it’s fully

possible this year. Her and Bella have been doing a lot of workouts together.”

Nieman is only about 15 seconds off of her career PR (22:29), which was set at the conference meet last year. Her PR this fall of 22:44 was accomplished at the All-American meet at Luther College in Decorah the week prior to this Starmont run.

“They are improving, whether that’s just in mindset – at least going out and giving an effort, because your best effort is not always going to be a PR,” said Bakula.

TV freshman Madalyn Vsetecka earned a top-10 finish in the JV girls race with a time of 25:36.22 (eighth place). Trojan sophomore Avery Franzen ran 25:28 in the boys JV race, which put him in the 94th slot.

Bakula said the Trojans always have one “fun day” during the year, which came last week Wednesday, the day before the race at Starmont. The TV runners – including the middle-schoolers – competed in ultimate football out on the Trojans’ gridiron just down from the school building.

“It’s still running related.

They still get a good cardio workout because they have to keep running,” said Bakula.

The Trojans can also look forward to Bakula’s culinary skills as the team gets to take part in a breakfast at her house during homecoming week, which is slated for next week at TV. “It kind of breaks up the season a little bit,” said Bakula.

The Trojans run at the Cresco Invite on Saturday, Oct. 5, then South Winneshiek hosts its home invite that following Tuesday, Oct. 8. Central Elkader is the host school for the Upper Iowa Conference meet on Thursday, Oct. 17. The state qualifier in Class 1A for Turkey Valley – at a site yet to be determined – is slated to go down on Thursday, Oct. 24.

Coming up in area high school sports Sept. 26 – Dec vb at Caledonia (9th/JV/V), 4:45 p.m.; SW g/b xc at Central Springs, 4:30 p.m.; SW vb at Postville (9th/JV/V), 5 p.m.; TV vb at Kee (9th/JV/V), 5 p.m.; Dec fb vs. Mason City (JV), 6 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Dec fb at Mason City (9th/V), 5 p.m.; SW fb at AGWSR (V), 7 p.m.; TV fb at Clarksville (V), 7 p.m.

Sept. 28 – Dec vb host tnmt. (V), 8:30 a.m.; SW vb at Decorah tnmt. (V), 8:30 a.m.; Dec g swim at Cedar Rapids Kennedy invite, 9 a.m.

Sept. 29 – SW fb vs. Postville (JV), 6 p.m.

Sept. 30 – TV fb vs. West Central (JV), 6 p.m.

Oct. 1 – Dec vb vs. Waukon (9th/JJV/JV/V), 5 p.m.; TV vb vs.

South Winn (9th/JV/V), 5 p.m.

Area high school and A-R-C football standings Class 4A District 2

Decorah Western Dubuque Mason City Waverly-Shell Rock Marion Waterloo East

District Overall 0-0 4-0 0-0 3-1 0-0 2-2 0-0 2-2 0-0 1-3 0-0 1-3

Last week Decorah 21, Independence 14 Waterloo East 7, Fort Dodge 40 Western Dubuque 21, North Scott 7 Marion 26, Maquoketa 11 Mason City 49, Charles City 14 Waverly-Shell Rock 31, Clear Lake 30 This week Decorah at Mason City Marion vs. Waterloo East Waverly-Shell Rock vs. Western Dubuque Next week Decorah vs. Waverly-Shell Rock Waterloo East vs. Mason City Western Dubuque vs. Marion

Class A District 3

Nashua-Plainfield North Tama Wapsie Valley AGWSR South Winn BCLUW North Butler

District Overall 3-0 4-0 2-1 2-2 2-0 3-1 1-2 1-3 1-1 1-3 0-3 0-4 0-2 2-2

Class 8-Player District 3

Don Bosco Kee Turkey Valley Riceville Waterloo Christian Central Elkader West Central

District Overall 2-0 4-0 2-1 3-1 2-1 2-2 1-0 3-1 1-1 2-2 0-2 1-3 0-3 0-4

Last week South Winn 42, Newman Catholic 44 BCLUW 24, North Tama 54 Nashua-Plainfield 48, AGWSR 7 Wapsie Valley 33, North Butler 6

Last week Turkey Valley 58, Central Elkader 22 Kee 12, Don Bosco 49 West Central 7, Riceville 67 Waterloo Christian 36, GMG 14

This week South Winn at AGWSR North Butler vs. BCLUW North Tama vs. Wapsie Valley Nashua-Plainfield at Saint Ansgar

This week Turkey Valley at Clarksville Don Bosco vs. West Central Riceville vs. Kee Waterloo Christian vs. Central Elkader

Next week South Winn vs. Nashua-Plainfield BCLUW at Martensdale-St. Marys North Tama vs. North Butler Wapsie Valley vs. AGWSR

Next week Turkey Valley vs. Waterloo Christian Central Elkader vs. Riceville West Central vs. Kee Don Bosco at Midland

American Rivers Conference

Conference Overall Coe 1-0 3-0 Wartburg 1-0 2-1 Buena Vista 1-0 1-2 Dubuque 1-0 1-2 Central 0-1 2-1 Nebraska Wesleyan 0-0 1-1 Simpson 0-1 1-2 Luther 0-1 0-2 Loras 0-1 0-3 Last week Luther 0, Coe 63 Dubuque 28, Simpson 14 Central 6, Wartburg 10 Loras 17, Buena Vista 20 This week Luther vs. Anderson (Ind.) Simpson vs. Loras Buena Vista vs. Central Coe vs. Dubuque Wartburg vs. Nebraska Wesleyan Next week Luther at Dubuque Nebraska Wesleyan vs. Buena Vista Central vs. Simpson Loras vs. Coe

SPORTS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221 15

SW second at N-P tourney The South Winn volleyball team (7-10, 1-1 UIC) continues to grow momentum as it competed in the Nashua-Plainfield tournament Saturday and ventured back into conference play at home Tuesday.

William Fullhart leads a pack of runners including teammates Landyn Hook (left) and Garrett See (over his shoulder) around a turn in Cedar Falls. (Photo courtesy of Decorah Boys Cross Country Facebook Page)

Good competition for Vikes at Cedar Falls

With each team fielding two squads, the Decorah girls’ and boys’ cross country teams competed well Thursday night at the 39th Annual Cedar Falls Rich Engle Classic.

Tuesday, the Vikes were at the Waukon Invite, results from that meet will be published in the Oct. 3 Decorah Leader.

Varsity girls The Decorah girls, ranked 15th in Class 3A, finished fifth overall with 143 points. Class 4A No. 4 Dubuque Senior finished first with 28 points. The Vikes had an average time 22:26.6 and posted a spread of 1:55.5.

“It was a challenging night due to weather and the course itself, but we learned things about ourselves as we continue to grow. The girls continue to work hard and help each other to improve,” said Decorah girls’ cross country coach Cristy Nimrod.

Taking first overall was Class 4A No. 2 Charlee Gall of Cedar Falls. She had a time of 19:07.5.

Decorah was led by Olivia Volkmann. She just missed the top 10 as she clocked in at 21:05.1, to finish 11th overall (10th in the team standings).

Brinlee Courtney was the second Viking to cross the finish line. The sophomore toured the course in 22:31.8, good for 29th (28th team). Raelyn Newhouse took 36th (34th team) in 22:46.0 with Deborah Hougen right behind her in 22:49.1, in 37th (35th). In 38th (36th team), Amelia Wadsworth rounded out the Decorah scoring. The junior had a time of 23:00.6.

Also running varsity were Riley Christopher (39th, 23:07.2), Natalie Stevens (49th, 23:51.1), Claire Storhoff (53rd, 24:05.6), Nora Lesmeister (59th, 24:12.6), Leah Garcia-Prats (60th, 24:17.7), Natalie Goodner (62nd, 24:24.4) and Lulu Bellrichard (73rd, 25:09.7).

Leading the boys in CF The Class 3A No. 5 Viking boys posted an average time of 17:34.0 and spread of 41 seconds in their sixth-place finish with 149 points. The host, Class 4A No. 2 Cedar Falls, claimed the title with 68 points.

The individual winner was Western Dubuque’s Class 3A No. 1 Quentin Nauman. He had a time of 15:29.6.

The Vikes were led by Class 3A No. 29 Grant Zilka. The junior toured the course in 17:20.3, good for 22nd. D’mitry Lesser wasn’t too far behind, taking 25th in 17:28.3. Davis Coppola came across the finish line in 17:29.0 to take 27th, followed closely by Landyn Hook in 29th. Hook had a time of 17:30.9. Completing the scoring for Decorah in 47th (46th team) was William Fullhart with a time of 18:01.2.

Others competing in the varsity race were Clarence Nimrod (51st, 18:03.5), Mitchell Stemper (61st, 18:10.2), Garrett See (63rd, 18:13.8), Oak Pasche (82nd, 18:39.0), Thomas Hammel (87th, 18:43.4) and Spencer Christensen (97th, 18:55.0).

“There was great job and ef-

fort by those who were prepared for the hot weather while those who were not prepared had a valuable learning experience,” said Viking boys’ cross country coach Brad Johansen.

JV action The Decorah junior varsity girls tallied 109 points to earn fourth place with an average time of 25:26.5 and spread of 1:53.0. The top seven for the girls included Elsa Johnson (17th, 24:34.2), Olivia Rissman (18th, 24:48.6), Vivian Searcy (20th, 25:13.7), Grace Blikre (26th, 26:08.4), Ellie Adams (28th, 26:27.3), Natalie Holthaus (29th, 26:35.8) and Lillian Dahlen (33rd, 26:43.9).

Finishing sixth as a squad, the Viking JV boys tallied 164 points with an average time of 19:42.9 and a spread of 46.2 seconds. Those competing in the top seven were Max Grimstad (18th, 19:17.6), Bennett Coppola (22nd, 19:28.1), Kyan Oftedahl (35th, 19:44.9), Oliver Bollinger (42nd, 20:00.1), Logan Nalean-Carlson (47th, 20:03.7), Kyle Pattison (52nd, 20:12.0) and Liam Hung (58th, 20:15.4).

Girls’ varsity team results 1. Dubuque Senior 28; 2. Cedar Falls 45; 3. Dubuque Hempstead 67; 4. Mason City 123; 5. Decorah 143; 6. Cedar Rapids Kennedy 106; 7. Ames 200; 8. Grundy Center 216; 9. Western Dubuque 238; 10. Cedar Rapids Washington 253; 11. Cedar Rapids Jefferson 313; 12. Waterloo Christian 383 Boys’ varsity team results 1. Cedar Falls 68; 2. Bettendorf 94; 3. Cedar Rapids Kennedy 102; 4. Dubuque Senior 130; 5. Linn-Mar 144; 6. Decorah 149; 7. Iowa City West 177; 8. Dubuque Hempstead 212; 9. Urbandale 245; 10. Southeast Polk 265; 11. Waterloo West 287; 12.

Western Dubuque 302; 13. Grundy Center 426; 14. Cedar Rapids Washington 454; 15. Iowa City Liberty 455; 16. Cedar Rapids Jefferson 467; 17. Waterloo Christian 530; 18. Waterloo East 542; 19. Valley Lutheran 543 Girls’ JV team results 1. Dubuque Senior 25; 2 Cedar Falls 44; 3. Dubuque Hempstead 94; 4. Decorah 109; 5. Iowa City Liberty 137; 6. Western Dubuque 193; 7. Ames 203; 8. Cedar Rapids Washington 224; 9. Grundy Center 251; 10. Cedar Rapids Jefferson 312; 11. Waterloo West 344; 12. Cedar Rapids Kennedy 358 Boys’ JV team results 1. Iowa City West 33; 2. Cedar Falls 36; 3. Linn-Mar 100; 4. Urbandale 131; 5. Dubuque Senior 163; 6. Decorah 164; 7. Cedar Rapids Kennedy 175; 8.

Ankeny 212; 9. Dubuque Hempstead 265; 10. Bettendorf 279; 11. Southeast Polk 293; 12. Western Dubuque 357; 13. Mason City 434; 14. Cedar Rapids Jefferson 457; 15. Iowa City Liberty 458; 16. Waterloo West 512; 17.

Cedar Rapids Washington 547

Solid tourney day Taking on some heavy hitters, the Warriors came away with a runner-up finish at the Nashua-Plainfield tournament Saturday, going 2-1.

South Winn opened the tournament with a 2-0 win over Starmont. Set scores were 21-12 and 21-17. Then it was on to face the host. The Warriors handled the Huskies in two sets, 21-8 and 21-19. In the championship match, the Warriors squared off with Class 3A Hampton-Dumont/CAL, falling in two sets, 18-21 and 17-21.

“Getting outstanding production from Addi Timp on the right all day (18 kills, 2 errors, .449 on the day) we were able to take the pressure off our outside hitters and attain a team attack percentage of .329 on the day. I wish we could have gotten our middles more involved with better passing, but that is something our staff will need to take a look at,” said co-head coach Ethan Adams. “On the whole, we had a great tournament on the heels of our homecoming week, and I was proud of the girls. Avery Luzum stepped up in a big way, as we were without Ella Theis for the day, and totaled 40 assists on the day. Without the depth on our roster, we would look like a very different team and we appreciate our bench and rotational players immensely.”

Stats vs. Starmont Kills – Addison Timp 6; Alyssa Holthaus 4; Ivey Franzen 4; Bailey Kuennen 4; Bailee Frana 3; Avery Luzum 1; Chloe Wiltgen 1 Assists – Luzum 18; Frana 1; Ad. Timp 1 Blocks (solo-assist) – Holthaus (10); Franzen (1-0); Frana (0-1); Ad. Timp (0-1) Digs – Franzen 10; Wiltgen 10; Allison Hageman 6; Ad. Timp 3; Luzum 3; Holthaus 2; Aubrey Hageman 2; Kuennen 2 Serving (success/attempts) – Al. Hageman (5-5); Au. Hageman (4-4); Luzum (4-5); Franzen (8-9); Alyssa Timp (6-6) Aces – Luzum 2; Al. Hageman 1; Franzen 1 Stats vs. Nashua-Plainfield Kills – Ad. Timp 5; Luzum 5; Franzen 4; Kuennen 4; Britney Hageman 2; Frana 1 Assists – Luzum 9; Wiltgen 7; Au. Hageman 2; Kali Kleve 1 Blocks (solo-assist) – B. Hageman (0-2); Franzen (0-1); Kuennen (0-1) Digs – Wiltgen 9; Franzen 7; Al. Hageman 5; Au. Hageman 3; Luzum 1; Kleve 1; Kuennen 1 Serving (success/attempts) – Al. Hageman (5-5); Au. Hageman (7-8); Luzum (7-7); Franzen (3-3); Al. Timp (2-2); Wiltgen (5-6) Aces – Al. Hageman 1; Au. Hageman 1; Luzum 1; Wiltgen 1 Stats vs. Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Kills – Ad. Timp 7; Frana 3; Franzen 3; Kuennen 2; B. Hageman 1; Holthaus 1 Assists – Luzum 13; Wiltgen 2; Kleve 1 Blocks (solo-assist) – Frana (0-1); Franzen (0-1) Digs – Wiltgen 14; Al. Hageman 2; Au. Hageman 2; Luzum 2; Al. Timp 1 Serving (success/attempts) – Al. Hageman (6-7); Au. Hageman (5-6); Luzum (3-4); Franzen (2-3); Kleve (11); Al. Timp (2-2); Wiltgen (3-5) Aces – Au. Hageman 1; Franzen 1; Al. Timp 1

UIC battle Tuesday, the Warriors took on the conference leader North Fayette Valley (8-3, 3-0 UIC) at home in what was very likely a conference deciding match. In the end the TigerHawks won the battle 3-1 with set scores of 2522, 25-16, 17-25 and 25-19.

“While things didn’t go our way, I was proud of the way we battled down the stretch. There weren’t many points in the match where I felt like things were completely out of reach.

Our response was strong in many moments, and we had key players in supporting roles step up to give us big boosts,” said Coach Adams.

Aubrey Hageman had a four-ace second set to give the Warriors life in a set that was slipping away. Addi Timp had another great showing from opposite with six six kills, both in support of a great night by senior Ivey Franzen with seven kills.

Stats vs. NFV Kills – Franzen 7; Ad. Timp 6; Kuennen 6; Holthaus 5; Ella Theis 4; B. Hageman 4; Frana 2; Wiltgen 2 Assists – Theis 22; Luzum 7; Ad. Timp 3; Wiltgen 3 Blocks (solo-assist) – B. Hageman (0-2); Theis (0-1); Frana (0-1); Ad. Timp (0-1); Kuennen (0-1) Digs – Wiltgen 26; Au. Hageman 13; Al. Hageman 9; Luzum 7; Theis 4; Kuennen 2 Serving (success/attempts) – Theis (13-15); Al. Hageman (10-12); Au. Hageman (13-14); Luzum (13-13); Al. Timp (6-8); Wiltgen (11-13) Aces – Au. Hagmean 4; Wiltgen 3; Theis 1; Al. Hageman 1; Luzum 1; Al. Timp 1

Addi Timp provided six kills Tuesday in the Warriors conference battle with NFV. (Photo by Becky Walz)

A perfect entry for Christen Several adjustments were made to the second week of the Pigskin Picks football contest, with the Crestwood versus Oelwein game cancelled after the printing of the entry page. A typographical error showed Iowa State playing Arizona State, when it should have been Arkansas State.

Both games were eliminated from the scoring, leaving 13 games to score.

Decorah’s Elliott Christen had a perfect entry to win the top prize in week two while five entries missed just one game.

Second and third place came down to the second tie breaker. The first tie breaker of most

points scored in a game was 63 by Coe and there were two participants who both guessed 60. That left the second tie breaker to make the decision with the most points scored in a single game which was 86 in the South Winn versus Newman Catholic contest.

As a result Jerry Fox of Decorah took second with a guess of 90, just four away from the second tie breaker and Twila Shley won third with a guess of 74.

Commonly missed games included Newman Catholic over South Winn, Upper Iowa falling to Southwest Baptist and Minnesota Vikings defeating the Houston Texans.

Kyle Kuboushek escapes the grip of a Newman Catholic defender Friday as he carries the pigskin down the field. (Photo

by Becky Walz)

SW Homecoming spoiled

by Knights, 44-42 Friday’s non-district homecoming game came down to the wire as the South Winn football team (1-3, 1-1) were looking to defeat Newman Catholic for the second year in a row. The Warriors had their hands full throughout the game, but in the end the pesky Knight defense got the stop it needed to spoil homecoming 44-42.

“Our kids executed our offensive game plan at a high level. Our offensive line played their best game, led by Tristen Bodensteiner, Ray Lienau, Adam Schmitt, Logan Tieskoetter, Aydan Polafox-Schultz and Brandon Kriener. We were able to record 29 1st downs (highest total since stat tracking has taken place) and 448 yards on the ground,” said coach Jason Ohrt.

“We have things to improve on as we struggled defensively and were unable to make a play on 3rd and 4th down despite putting Newman in long yardage situations a number of times.”

Holding in check The Warrior offense lit up the scoreboard less than two minutes into the game on a quarterback sneak by Braiden Todd.

Then it was defense’s job to hold the Knights in check. However, on Newman’s first drive, they took a methodical approach to score after taking nearly four minutes off the clock. A missed PAT left the Warriors with a slim advantage that grew to 14-6 as Kyle Kuboushek drug a pair of Knight defenders over the goal line with him with 1:25 remaining in the first.

Several long passes by Newman opened the second period that landed the Knights in the end zone with only 21 seconds in. A successful two-point conversion knotted the game 1414. Then it was back to work for the Warrior offense with Eric Greve and Kuboushek getting their names called to carry the pigskin and another South Winn score. This time the Warriors missed the PAT. Newman responded with a score in the final minute of the quarter leaving the two teams equal at

20-20.

The cat and mouse game continued in the third quarter with each squad putting up a score and two-point conversions, leaving the game deadlocked at 28 with 12 minutes to play.

As the game rolled on, neither team was forced to punt the ball away, as the Knights put up two more scores. An early fourth period touchdown had the Warriors trailing by just one score late in the game, which came in the final two minutes. Looking to tie the game with a possibility of overtime, South Winn went for the two-point conversion and fell short.

Those numbers South Winn collected 29 first downs and 448 rushing yards.

Individually, Kuboushek led the running game with 216 yards on 31 carries. Todd picked up 153 yards on 15 carries, while Greve had nine touches for 79 yards.

The defense was led by Kuboushek who had seven solo and two assisted tackles. Yahir Macario was there for five solo and four assisted stops. Brennan Franzen and Greve also had five solo tackles.

Up next The Warriors are back in district action Friday, Sept. 27 and will travel to AGWSR (13, 1-2). The Cougars have lost their last two games, Nashua-Plainfield 48-7 and North Tama (38-9). AGWSR’s lone win of the season was over BCLUW 14-13.

1Q Newman 6 South Winn 14

2Q 14 6

3Q 8 8

4Q 16 14

F 44 42

Game stats Total yards: SW 448; Newman 439 Passing (comp/att/yds): Braiden Todd (0-4) Rushing (att/yds): Kyle Kuboushek (31-216, 3 TD); Todd (15-153, 2 TD); Eric Greve (9-79, 1 TD) Tackles (total): Kuboushek (8.0); Yahir Macario (7.0); Brennan Franzen (6.0); Greve (6.0); Todd (4.5); Carson Streeter (2.5); Landon Livingood (2.0); Tristen Bodensteiner (2.0); Ayden Palafox (0.5); Ray Lienau (0.5) Kick-offs (att/yds): Streeter (7375, 1 TB, 2 PAT) Kick-off returns (att/yds): Streeter (4-96); Todd (1-19); Greve (1-11)

South Winn’s Brennan Franzen grabs hold of a Knight for a tackles as Eric Greve (left) and Kyle Kuboushek (8) come to assist. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Turkey Valley sweeps Clayton Ridge Trojans compete at Waukon Invite over weekend

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com

Claire Storhoff was among the varsity runners for Decorah in Cedar Falls last week. (Photo courtesy of Decorah Girls Cross Country Facebook Page)

The Turkey Valley volleyball team swept Clayton Ridge at home last week Tuesday by scores of 25-21, 25-23 and 2513.

That earned the Trojans their second win of the season in the conference. TV dropped its first league tilt later that week on Thursday at North Fayette Valley – 25-23, 25-23 and 25-18.

The Trojans co-head coach Tammy Vrzak – along with

Ashley Walz – was happy with how the Trojans played in the win over CR. “The games were close, but the girls kept their composure and won in three,” said Vrzak.

Vrzak also thought her team came to play against NFV, but they came up short in the opening games.

“The score doesn’t necessarily show it, but the girls played well. They are resilient to the changes we are making within the team, which shows,” said Vrzak.

TV (6-10, 2-1) competed in the Waukon Invite this past Saturday and topped MFL MarMac for the second time this year this fall by a score of 21-6 and 21-16. The host Indians defeated TV, 21-17 and 21-16. Crestwood turned back the Trojans, 21-12 and 21-15 and Riceville pulled away from TV for a sweep, 21-15 and 21-19.

“The girls went 50/50 for the day. Their serving was fantastic, with Alexis Elsbernd’s many aces. Morgan Vsetecka was a very versatile player for us, hav-

ing to go from libero to a regular player during a game and the last game,” Vrzak added.

TV senior middle Kinsey Reicks led the team in kills (8) against NFV. Layni Schuchhardt, a senior, posted 13 kills against CR and senior Alexis Elsbernd came up with 26 digs versus the Eagles. Vsetecka, a senior, was the top digs leader against NFV with 24.

The Trojans’ Addison Steinlage, a junior for the Trojans, amassed 46 assists in the two league contests.

SPORTS

16 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

No. 5 Vikes squeak past Mustangs

The South Winn girls cross country takes off at the start of the meet held in Elkader last week.

At the end of the race, the Warriors posted the top score to win the title. (Photo courtesy of Tami Brincks)

Warriors girls first, boys third at Central

Franzen leads girls Sophomore Ava Franzen paced South Winn with a second place finish overall in 22:10.3, behind Dunkerton’s Abbi Waskow who posted a time of 21:25.0. Crossing

the finish line in 22:30.5 was Maddy Jansen, good for fourth place, just ahead of teammate Annie Hageman who took fifth in 22:44.0. Touring the course in 23:28.5 was Karissa Wenthold. Her time was good for 11th place. Izzy Kuboushek completed the scoring in 12th place. The senior had a time of 23:33.1.

Other Lady Warriors competing were Tessa Phillips (13th, 23:57.6), Lauren Ondrashek (14th, 24:30.4), Addy Conway (19th, 25:37.5) and Katie Shimek (22nd, 26:12.9).

Levi Feickert (2495) leads teammates Eli Higgins (2498) and Diego Flores along the Elkader cross country course last week. (Photo courtesy of Tami Brincks)

Leading the boys So far this season, freshmen Hugh Conway and Cameron Einck have led the Warrior pack to the finish line each race and did so again in Elkader. Conway claimed ninth place overall in 18:52.7, while Einck was just steps behind in 10th with a tie of 18:54.5. Junior Brad Dahl posted a time of 19:24.0, good for 11th place. Taking home 33rd was another freshman, Clayton Kuboushek. He had a time of 22:07.2. In 24:26.6, Eli Higgins rounded out the Warrior scoring in 47th place (39th in team standings).

Levi Feickert (49th, 24:49.8), Diego Flores (56th, 26:15.7) and Henry Lensing (66th, 31:50.0) also toured the course for the Warriors.

Girls’ varsity team results 1. South Winn 27; 2. MFL MarMac 39; 3. East Buchanan 95; 4. Central Elkader 116; 5. Clayton Ridge 144; 6. Charles City 149; 7. Postville 161

ABOVE: Noah Milburn (87) and Peyton Webb team up to drag down the Independence ball carrier in Friday’s 21-14 non-district win. LEFT: Decorah quarterback Louis Bucksa pumps his fist after sneaking his way into the end zone for the second time in Friday’s game. (Photos by Becky Walz) There are just five undefeated teams in Class 4A football and Decorah fans have a lot to cheer about since the fifth-ranked Vikings are one of them.

Friday’s battle was the final non-district match for the Vikes, who are looking to win a district title this season after defeating a previously undefeated Independence team 21-14.

“The kids did an excellent job executing our game plan on Friday,” said coach Mike Tangen.

“They played selfless football and our offensive and defensive line controlled the line of scrimmage. I am very proud of our leadership and excited about the growth that we have made each week.”

How it went It was a battle in the trenches as both defenses stole the show on homecoming night in Decorah, neither team found the end zone in the first quarter.

Jackson Pipho broke through the barrier on defense with a pick-six just two minutes into the second period, putting the Vikes on the board. With Brayden Wemark’s PAT, Decorah led 7-0. Independence soon had an opportunity to put points up but missed a field goal. A pair of Viking turnovers eventually landed the Mustangs in the endzone as they went 60 yards on four plays to tie the game with 3:17 remaining.

Then it was back to the work for Decorah. It looked like the Vikings would be stopped with a minute to play as Noah Milburn punted the ball; however, a muffed catch landed in the hands of Carter Dlhy, giving Decorah the pigskin at the Independence 26-yard line. As time ran down, the Vikings struck for their second score of the quarter as Louis Bucksa had a successful quarterback sneak from the 1-yard line making it 14-7 in favor of Decorah at the half.

Decorah’s defense pushed the Mustangs to a three-and-out to start the third quarter. A series of carries by Trevor Kuennen put the ball at the Independence 1-yard line and set up Bucksa’s second QB sneak of the game

into the end zone. That score put Decorah on top 21-7. Independence managed one more score in the third period with 1:09 remaining. It would be a scoreless fourth quarter, allowing the Vikes to survive another game.

Quick stats The Vikings ground out 203 yards rushing and 86 passing for 289 total. There were five total turnovers with Pipho picking off a pass and Gavin Groux and Dlhy each recovering a fumble.

Offensively, Kuennen rushed 22 times for 103 yards. Groux picked up 66 yards on the ground in 14 carries and caught one pass for another 15 yards.

Milburn hauled in a trio of receptions for 32 yards. Bucksa completed eight passes for 86 yards.

On defense, Gatlin Dahlberg led the way with eight solo and three assisted tackles. Kuennen had four solo stops, while Peyton Webb was there for three solo tackles. Thirteen other Vikings had a least 0.5 tackle.

On the road The Vikings are off to a 4-0 start, but now the real work begins as Decorah enters district play this Friday, Sept. 27, at Mason City at 7:30 p.m. The Riverhawks opened the season with a 26-25 win over Mar-

shalltown, then dropped a pair of games to Fort Dodge (35-17) and Gilbert (42-22) before rebounding to defeat Charles City last week 49-14.

Independ.

Decorah

1Q 0 0

2Q 7 14

3Q 7 7

4Q 0 0

Scoring sequence 1st Quarter None 2nd Quarter Decorah – Jackson Pipho 36-yd.

INT return (Brayden Wemark PAT) Independence – 48-yd. pass (PAT) Decorah – Louis Bucksa 1-yd. run (Wemark PAT) rd 3 Quarter Decorah – Bucksa 1-yd. run (Wemark PAT) Independence – 29-yd. pass (PAT) 4th Quarter None Game stats Total yards: Decorah 289; Independence 302 Passing (comp/att/yds): Louis Bucksa (8-12, 86 yds., 1 INT) Rushing (att/yds): Trevor Kuennen (22-103); Gavin Groux (14-66); Bucksa (10-21, 2 TD); Carter Dlhy (314); Tommy Sexton (1-(-1)) Receiving (att/yds/TD): Noah Milburn (3-32); Groux (1-15); Kuennen (1-12); Will Larson (1-12); Jackson Pipho (1-9); Dlhy (1-6) Tackles (total): Gatlin Dahlberg (9.5); Kuennen (5.5); Peyton Webb (4.0); Sexton (3.5); William Hahn (3.5); Larson (3.0); Keaton Orris (3.0); Tanner Caddell (2.5); Groux (2.0); Pipho (2.0); Milburn (1.5); Bradan Darling (1.0); Landon Quandahl (0.5); Jameson LaBelle (0.5); Luke Franzen (0.5); Henry Brynsaas (0.5) Interceptions (no/return yds): Pipho (1-36, 1 TD) Fumble recoveries (no/return yds): Groux (1-25); Dlhy (1-0) Punts (att/yds): Milburn (4-154) Kick-offs (att/yds): Brayden Wemark (4-190, 1 TB, 3-3 PAT) Kick-off returns (att/yds): Groux (2-41); Mason Avila (1-24)

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It was an uphill battle much of Tuesday night for the Class 4A No. 15 Decorah volleyball team (8-3 1-1 NEIC) who fell in four sets to New Hampton (108, 2-1 NEIC) at home.

Decorah stretched a set one advantage to 8-2 before the Chickasaws began to chip away at their deficit and eventually took the lead 11-10. From their it was all New Hampton as they pulled ahead 20-13. Decorah struggled to swing the momentum in its direction as the Chickasaws continued to pound the ball at the net to win set one 25-14.

Set two began with NH scoring the first point but that would be the only time the Chickasaws would lead in the close game.

Decorah managed to maintain the lead throughout when Savannah O’Reilly stepped up to serve for six of the final seven points in the 25-16 set two victory.

The third and fourth sets were closer finishes with neither NEIC team leading by more that five before swapping the advantage. In the end the visit-

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Thursday was a beautiful night of racing for the South Winn cross country teams with the girls’ taking the title at Central Elkader with 27 points. The Class 1A No. 4 Lady Warriors had an average time of 22:53.3

F 14 21

It’s a team effort as Bradan Darling (55) and William Hahn (77) drag down the Independence player. Also in on the tackle were Tommy Sexton (22) and Gatlin Dahlberg (15). (Photo

by Becky Walz)

2020 CHRYLSER PACIFICA

■

Boys’ varsity team results 1. Charles City 31; 2. Central Elkader 48; 3. South Winn 92; 4.

Kee 102; 5. Clayton Ridge 109; 6.

Postville 145; 7. East Buchanan 191

and a spread of 1:22.8, among the top seven harriers.

For the South Winn boys, it was an average time of 20:44.7 and spread of 5:33.9, as the Warriors finished third in the team standings with 92 points behind Charles City and Central Elkader.

+ more!

ing Chickasaws took both sets 25-22.

As a team, Decorah had 41 kills on 123 attack attempts, 39 assists, 77 digs and served 90.5 percent (76-for-84).

Massman pounded down a team-high 12 kills on 30 attack attempts to go with 14 digs and a 19-for-21 serving performance. Leah Holland provided nine kills, while Sydney Thompson hammered down eight. Dylin Thompson handed out 29 assists and came up with 18 digs and served 15for-17. Ellie Rolfs, Savannah O’Reilley and Sara Johanningmeier had big nights defensively with 17, 12 and 10 digs, respectively.

Stats vs.

New Hampton Kills – McKinley Massman 12; Leah Holland 9; Sydney Thompson 8; Audrey Essa 6; Renae Wilson 4; Dylin Thompson 2

Assists – D. Thompson 29; Ellie Rolfs 5; Sara Johanningmeier 2; Savannah O’Reilly 2; S. Thompson 2 Blocks (assist-solo) – Holland (01); Wilson (0-1) Digs – D. Thompson 18; Rolfs 17; Massman 14; O’Reilly 12; Johanningmeier 10; Holland 4; Wilson 1; Essa 1 Serving (success/attempts) – Johanningmeier (3-4); Rolfs (8-8); Massman (19-21); Holland (5-6); D. Thompson (15-17); Ella Stille (10-11); O’Reilly (16-17) Aces – D. Thompson 2; O’Reilly 2; Massman 1; Stille 1

Savannah O’Reilly had a big night Tuesday with 12 digs (Photo by Becky Walz)