November 21, 2024

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 47 www.decorahleader.com

Decorah, Iowa 52101 email: editor@decorahleader.com

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Decorah football legacy embodied by new monument at Viking Stadium

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Past members of the Decorah High School football program see a certain quality – a quiet confidence – among the players whenever the Vikings take the field. It’s something that has somehow been passed down from generation to generation as the school has marked five state championship victories since the mid-1970s. The program’s team spirit and history of state victories inspired Viking football alumni to erect a monument in honor of the Viking coaches, teammates and community members who helped make Decorah one of the best football clubs in the state — currently tied for sixth overall out of more than 400

high school football programs statewide.

Construction of the school’s “Legacy of Champions” monument, located near Viking Stadium’s entrance, was recently completed — spotlighting DHS football’s many achievements and honoring those who made them possible. Mike Naslund, who played for Decorah during the 1987 state football championship, said organizers had two goals in mind when they envisioned the monument — to

Voters in Decorah will have another chance to exercise their civic duty before 2024 passes into the history books. A special election for a vacancy on the Decorah City Council will be held Tuesday, Dec. 10, and three candidates have filed papers in pursuit of the council’s available at-large seat.

Candidates Kent Klocke, Paul Wanless and Cody Whittle have all thrown their hats in the ring to join the city council.

Former Decorah City Council member Ross Hadley stepped down from his at-large position earlier this fall after announcing his intent to do so in July.

Hadley’s term was set to expire Dec. 31, 2025.

City officials voted Sept. 3 to hold a special election to fill the vacancy, rather than appoint a new council member. City officials had at one point hoped

Monument continued on page 10

The recently-completed Legacy of Champions monument at Viking Stadium in Decorah. Mike Naslund, a 1988 Decorah High School graduate, headed a committee to create the monument, and he said it wouldn’t have been possible without generous contributions from Troost Monument Co., Northeast Security Bank, 1975 Decorah graduate Al Rosendahl and 1976 Decorah graduate Keith Bruening – whose names appear on the monument.

(Photo by Zach Jensen)

Trio of candidates seeking vacant city council seat

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR

recognize former coach Richard Wuest as well as the coaching staff and players who were part of Decorah’s championship teams, and to add recognition to the school’s overall program “by erecting a monument that would encapsulate the storied history of Decorah football.”

Wuest began coaching for Decorah in the fall of 1964, at

to conduct the non-partisan race during this month’s general election, but state restrictions on scheduling elections required the upcoming race be decided no earlier than next month.

Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines confirmed the successful candidate in next month’s three-way race must secure more than 50 percent of the vote in order to be declared the winner. If none of the three candidates are able to do so, the two most popular candidates will face off at the ballot box four weeks later. Steines noted Decorah is the only city in Winneshiek County which includes run-off provisions in its city ordinances, and he said a potential run-off election could be held on Jan. 7 if need be.

The Decorah Leader is in the process of contacting each candidate for a Q&A feature ahead of the upcoming special election.

Helping Services kicks off 20th annual Holiday Lights

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Helping Services for Youth and Families plans to help the Decorah area get into the spirit of the holidays during its annual Holiday Lights Walk Through Night.

This year’s event will be held from 5-7:30 p.m. Wednesday Nov. 27 at Pulpit Rock Campground in Decorah. Pokey Pete, local choirs, a live Nativity scene, Santa and a professional photographer will be available during the celebration, which kicks off Helping Services’ biggest fundraiser of the year.

“This event is critically important for our organization’s stability,” said Helping Services Director Carson Eggland.

“We can’t thank the sponsors, businesses and organizations enough for their support.”

Also included for a free-will donation will be a variety of soups, hot cocoa, cookies and ice cream treats. Parking will be available near the soccer fields on Pulplit Rock Road, with shuttle services dropping visitors off at the front entrance.

No cars will be allowed, but vehicles may park near the Twin

Holiday Lights volunteer Jack Barloon directs FCSAmerica’s Bre Hemesath, Kayla Burkey and Val Brincks in erecting a Holiday Lights display at Pulpit Rock Campground. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com Springs side of the campground and handicap parking available in both areas.

“I enjoy volunteering and giving back to the community,” said Bailey Sadler of FCSAmerica, which sends volunteers to help set up the displays at the

campground every fall. FCSAmerica donates a specific dollar amount to Helping Services for every volunteer hour contributed. A total of 18 FCSAmerica staffers volunteered their time at this year’s Holiday Lights display, for which FCSAmerica

donated $4,000 to Helping Services for Youth and Families.

Helping Services for Youth and Families has provided

Holiday Lights continued on page 5

State ethics board green-lights investigation of two NICC trustees Complaints reveal specific allegations

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR State officials recently voted to move ahead with investigations focused on two members of the Northeast Iowa Community College Board of Trustees.

A complaint filed with the

Hebert Riedel

Wendy Knight

Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board by former NICC president Herbert Riedel

Jim Anderson

alleged trustee Wendy Knight provided consulting services to NICC while employed by the

college without going through a competitive bidding process — the consulting services in question totaled tens of thousands of dollars, according to the complaint. A separate complaint, filed by Riedel’s wife, alleges NICC board chair Jim Anderson inappropriately sought signatures of support from college employees — including Riedel — ahead of Anderson’s bid for reelection.

The Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board voted

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Oct. 31 to accept both complaints for further investigation.

“I welcome their review as part of a fair and transparent process,” Knight said on Nov. 15. “I have always upheld the highest standards of integrity and ethics in my work. Out of respect for the process, I will not be commenting further at this time. I appreciate the support and understanding of those who know my commitment to these values.”

Anderson did not respond

to request for comment before press time Tuesday.

Riedel was installed as president of NICC in July of 2022, after being selected earlier that year to succeed outgoing president Liang Chee Wee, who had served in that role for 11 years. Riedel was given notice in mid-November of 2023 that the college intended to terminate his employment contract.

NICC

continued on page 11

VOTE DEC 10 KENT

KLOCKE

DECORAH CITY COUNCIL AT LARGE

PHOTOS

The Holidays are Coming!

COM

2 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

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Relaxing in the high school gymnasium before the turkey shoot were Brexton and Beckham Panos, sons of Bryan and Jackie Panos.

ABOVE- Andy Bonnet and son McCoy took turns shooting baskets. BELOW- Graham Noble, son of Dustin and Bethany Noble of Decorah, was ready to take some shots. (Photos by A good crowd was on hand for the 42nd annual Roz Weis) Turkey Shoot competition on Nov. 12 in the Decorah High School Gymnasium. The event is sponsored each year by Decorah Parks and Recreation. A total of 162 people took aim at the basketball hoop during the parent-child free throw contest, as they displayed their sharp-shooting skills in pursuit of prize giveaways. Participants were divided

into age categories based on the combined ages of the participating parent and child. A turkey was awarded to the top scoring team in each category. Turkeys were provided by Decorah Fareway, and other prizes were purchased with donations from Deco Products as well as Prairie Lakes Church.

Turkey Winners

• 38 and under: Jacob and Aschim Reindhardt • 39-41: Emmett and Tyler Wedemeier • 42-44: Cody and Duke Webb • 45-47: John and Simon Vogel • 48-50: Bryan and Beckham Panos • 51-53: Derek and Drew Thompson • 54-56: Tadd and Harper Schutte

Kade Albers, son of Lindsey and Justin Albers, checks out the competition at the turkey shoot.

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• 57-59: Joel and Brock Teslow • 60-62: Amanda and Peyton Webb • 63-plus: Mark and Justin Albers Prize drawing winners

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Luther students raise funds for hurricane relief Marty’s Cafe in Luther College’s Dahl Centennial Union was a sight to see Friday night as Luther College students took to the stage to sing, dance, doing handstands and performing yo-yo tricks during the Luther’s Got Talent benefit, which was sponsored by Luther’s Social Work Association. Participants donated $5 per act and spectators purchased tickets to vote for their favorite acts. Funds raised were put toward hurricane relief efforts through the American Red Cross. Nearly 20 acts participated and, when the curtain fell at the end of the night, more than $500 had been raised. (Photos by Denise Lana)

• Gabby and Emersyn Root • Gregg and Kate Pattison • Janice and Tristan Hanson • Nick and Carter Kargalsky • Brandon and Harper Pitz • Nathan and Carter Todd • Sarah and Lydia Trimble • Adam and Archer Weber

Winners can pick up their certificates or prizes from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Decorah Parks and Recreation Office.

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NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Decorah School Board tags Brad Darling to fill vacancy

County auditor pleased with how local election proceeded

The Decorah Community School District Board appointed Brad Darling of rural Decorah to fill the board seat vacated by longtime board member Brian Petersburg. The board made the decision during a special session Monday afternoon.

Petersburg, who served on the board for 17 years, submitted his resignation last week.

The resignation was effective Nov. 12. Darling’s appointment was supported by each of the four members remaining on the board Monday.

Darling ran for an at-large position during the last school board election in 2023. He received 1,186 votes. He has also served on the district’s elementary school facilities committee this year.

The appointment is temporary until a successor is elected. Darling is expected to serve until November 2025, unless a valid petition calling for a special election is submitted.

According to Decorah Schools Superintendent Tim Cronin, should a petition be filed, the next available date for a special election would be March 4, 2025.

Board members agreed Darling’s experience in volunteer roles and the fact that he would represent the northern section of Winneshiek County were notable assets.

“I can share that since our last board meeting, and since the vacancy has been shared, I was in touch with Brad and he said

Winneshiek County Supervisors Shirley Vermace, Mark Faldet and Dan Langreck met with Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines the morning of Nov. 13 to officially canvass the results of the Nov. 5 presidential election. Steines said he was happy with the county’s election process.

“All-in-all, this election went by smoothly, so that was a positive experience,” Steines said.

“It was one of our busiest for … voting in person ever. I was quite pleased.”

Steines said Winneshiek County had nine voters on the “non-citizens list” from Iowa Secretary of State Paul D. Pate — Pate’s office had instructed county auditors across the state ahead of the election to challenge the ballots of 2,022 people whom Pate’s office listed as potential noncitizens, following an audit which identified individuals who had indicated they were non-citizens on public forms within the last 12 years and had subsequently registered to vote or had voted. Eight the nine individuals identified in Winneshiek County were allowed to vote after they provided appropriate identification, Steines said. The ninth individual’s address was listed as living at Luther College in 2017, which Steines said may indicate the individual was a Luther student who no longer lives in the area.

“None of them were provisional ballots,” Steines said.

“They all just had their ballots

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER

Brad Darling (left) of rural Decorah is pictured with son Bradan, a senior at Decorah High School. (Photo submitted) he would be proud to serve in that role on the board, and I was excited about his enthusiasm,” President Cindy Goodner said.

She went on to say there is a sense of urgency to filling all five of the board’s seats.

“With the school bond passing, with the Iowa Association of School Board Conference later this week and with all the work to be done with athletic conference placement … there are benefits of appointing someone to fill the seat immediately,” Goodner said.

When contacted by the Decorah Leader, Darling said he is eager to serve on the board in his new capacity. He plans to hit the ground running by attending the 79th IASB annual conven-

tion, which will be held Nov. 20-22 in Des Moines.

“I’m excited to be on the board,” he said. “I’m happy to be a voice on the board and to work on all the phases ahead.”

Other business In other business Monday, the board approved an application for the School Budget Review Committee for modified supplemental enrollment of nine new “open-enrollment-out” students, amounting to $75,262.68, and for the English Learner instruction beyond five years in the amount of $8,217.30.

The next regularly-scheduled school board meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9.

3

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

Supervisor Mark Faldet was one of three supervisors who participated in the canvassing of the recent election. (Photo

by Zach Jensen) counted and included with everybody else. The biggest issue with the whole thing was the timing. I wish they would have gone through the process of sending the list a few months earlier, so we would have had a cleaner list at election time — instead of two weeks before.

But, everybody got their vote counted, and that was the important part.”

The county auditor went on to explain the requirements for a write-in candidate to appear on the certified totals.

“There are write-in votes in almost every race, but to be listed in the official results, a write-in candidate needs at least 5 percent of the vote, with a minimum of 10 votes,” Steines said. “The only write-in that made that threshold was Kayla Koether, who was running for the Iowa House of Representatives. She ended up with 900 and some (votes) as a write-in.”

Steines said he held the

post-election audit on Nov. 7, during which five members of a bipartisan team audit the election results from a random precinct selected by the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office. This year, the bipartisan team audited the results for the presidential and sheriff races from the precinct locations polled at First Lutheran Church, and Steines said their results — counted by hand — perfectly matched that precinct’s results from Election Night. He added that about 70 county residents volunteered to be poll workers for the election.

“We should run a ‘thank you’ ad listing all the poll workers,” said Supervisor Shirley Vermace. “That’s a huge commitment. I just think it would be a feel-good way to recognize them.”

Faldet made a motion to certify the election results and the winners, and Vermace seconded. The motion was unanimously approved.

County supervisors to fill treasurer’s vacancy by appointment

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution Monday, to move forward with plans to fill the county treasurer’s position by appointment.

The county’s current treasurer, Brenda Kreitzer, announced her retirement, effective Jan. 3, 2025, during a recent board of supervisors meeting. Kreitzer worked as a deputy tax clerk for Winneshiek County for 27 years and was appointed treasurer in October of 2019 after Wayne Walter retired.

Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines said County Attorney Andy Van Der Maaten prepared a public notice for the appointment of a new county treasurer. Steines said letters of interest and resumes in application for the position must be received by 4 p.m., Friday, Dec. 6, and the board of supervisors will begin reviewing the received applications Dec. 9.

The appointment is expected to be made Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.

The public may file a petition calling for the county to hold a special election within 14 days of the appointment, Steines said. Per Iowa Code, the petition would require 10 percent of the votes cast for president

or governor in the last general election — in this instance, the petition would need 1,208 signatures to be considered, Steines said.

Budget review process Supervisor Steve Kelsay recommended the supervisors consider changing the annual budget review process so department budgets will submitted for review two weeks prior to their being considered during a board meeting. Additionally, Kelsay recommended each department head be required to answer how their respective departments are spending their funds and what the department has done to better serve county residents.

“This is just a suggestion,” Kelsay said. “If you have some different ideas, we could certainly modify or change it.”

Supervisor Shirley Vermace expressed some concern over Kelsay’s suggestion.

“I like this idea,” she said, “but a lot of times, we hear this information in the oral presentations of their budget.”

Kelsay said his suggested process and questions would also apply to elected officials.

“I forget how many hundreds of thousands of departments there are in the federal government,” he said. “We don’t

Thanksgiving will delay delivery of Decorah Leader Subscribers will see a slight lag in the delivery of next week’s Decorah Leader. The Nov. 28 edition will arrive in mailboxes on Friday, Nov. 29, due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Subscribers can expect similar delays next month during the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s Day. Electronic editions of the newspaper will be posted to the newspaper’s website ahead of hardcopy delivery. Readers may purchase a year-long digital subscription to the newspaper for $47, and Winneshiek County residents can take advantage of an $89 combination service in order to receive a weekly hard copy while also enjoying full digital access. Visit www.driftlessjournal.com/subscribe or call 563-382-4221 to subscribe. New subscribers may also receive a $20 Hy-Vee gift card during a Thanksgiving season promotion.

have a clue, and we’re citizens, but we’re just a smaller microcosm of the number of different departments that people may not even know about. But, if we have something that’s explained — what they’re doing or how they can do it better — I think that’s positive.”

Supervisor Mark Faldet said that having all department heads submit how they’re spending their budgeted funds is important.

County Auditor Ben Steines said there are approximately a dozen departments in the county that don’t have department heads, and another 15 or 20 department heads present their budgets and budget requests every year.

In other business: • The supervisors unanimously approved a secondary election canvass Monday to accommodate two voters in the Decorah Community School District who live in Allamakee County.

• The supervisors unanimously approved a motion to begin recording the board’s meetings no later than Jan. 1, 2025. The recordings will be available via a YouTube channel and Teams Live Feed for a minimum of one year following the meeting date.

• River City Paving crews finished paving County Road W14 from Ridgeway to Spillville on Friday. Winneshiek County Engineer Michael Kueny said striping for the roadway from Fort Atkinson to Spillville is done — as is the center line striping from Spillville to Ridgeway. Shouldering on the road will be done this week, weather permitting, but side striping may need to wait until spring.

• The improvements to the county’s Ridgeway shop are mostly complete. The shop gained in-floor heating to help road-clearing vehicles start in the winter months.

• Shouldering on Locust Road was completed last week.

• The county engineer’s office is teaming up with the Missouri University of Science and Technology, University of Wisconsin – Platteville and Iowa State University to conduct load studies on the county’s rail-car bridges. Kueny said it might be discovered that rail-car bridges are not as sturdy as once thought.

• Ten county roads won’t receive winter maintenance services this winter. Kueny said no one lives on those particular stretches of road, no livestock is located on the roadways and power lines don’t run through

Rachelle Howe, Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission executive director, gave a brief report on the organization’s activities from the last year during Monday’s board of supervisors meeting. (Photo by Zach Jensen) the areas. The roads include 365th Street from W20 to 258th Avenue; 318th Avenue from Iowa Highway 139 to the end of the road; 134th Avenue from 170th Street to 1608 134th Avenue; 205th Street from Glenville Road to end of the road; 128th Street from Iowa Highway 24 to 315th Avenue; 345th Avenue from County Road V64 to 150th Street; County Road W14 from to the end of the road; 165th Street from Middle Ossian Road to County Road W42; 320th Avenue from 200th Street to 210th Street; 335th Avenue from Dusty Road to 180th Street. The impacted roads will

be marked with signs.

• Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission Executive Director Rachelle Howe reported the organization had written and administered $8.4 million in projects for the county in the past fiscal year.

Howe also reported Winneshiek County’s membership dues for Fiscal Year 2026 will be $18,913, in addition to $3,800 for economic development administration grant dues. Department of Transportation dues and Safe Routes to School dues have yet to be announced.

Decorah trail project awarded funds The Iowa Transportation Commission on Nov. 12 approved $3,523,206 for nine State Recreational Trails Program projects. Among the successful project applications was the Decorah’s Carlson Park Trail, which is expected to receive almost $299,000 for portions of the project’s first phase. City officials said in a statement that the Carlson Park project includes the development of approximately 5.7 miles of mixed-use trails, which is designed to enhance outdoor recreational opportu-

nities for both residents and visitors.

“The Carlson Park Project has been made possible through a collaborative effort with Northeast Iowa Resource Conservation and Development and the Carlson Park Trail Coalition volunteers,” the city said in its statement.

“Their hard work and commitment were instrumental in securing this funding, which will support the creation of trails accessible to walkers, cyclists, and other outdoor enthusiasts.”

Officials said the Carlson

Park trails are expected to improve public access to Decorah’s natural landscapes and healthy activities.

“The project aligns with Decorah’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life through sustainable recreational spaces that encourage wellness, accessibility and environmental stewardship,” the city’s statement said.

The Carlson Park project was one of only two approved projects in northeast Iowa. The Clayton County Conservation Board is expected to receive

$325,000 for the first phase of the Pony Hollow Trail Extension.

The State Recreational Trails Program was created in 1988 with the purpose of developing and maintaining recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both motorized and non-motorized trail users. The funding is available to cities, counties, state agencies, local governments and nonprofit organizations through an annual application-based program.

OPINION

4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Ramaswamy once aimed to eliminate the Department of Education, now he’s in line to oversee a new government efficiency department

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR I’ve never been able to drum up much interest in the lists of proposed cabinet members each president makes following an election. Perhaps that kind of news just feels too similar to sports enthusiasts jabbering over NFL draft picks — I’ve never been much of a sports fan.

But last week’s announcement of who the incoming Trump Administration means to put in charge of the proposed Department of Government Efficiency snagged my ear. If you haven’t heard, former presidential candidate and millionaire businessman Vivek Ramaswamy is expected to be at the helm alongside billionaire businessman Elon Musk (yes, there are going to be two people in charge of the Department of Government Efficiency — insert your own joke).

The idea of Musk finding a gateway into government isn’t that surprising given how the last few years have gone, and most folks can probably take more than an educated guess as to his priorities given what he says via the little blue bird he molded into a megaphone.

But it was Ramaswamy’s name that caught my attention.

I’d imagine a lot of folks have become a bit foggy on what his specific campaign platforms were, since he dropped out of the race almost a year ago. Fortunately, I had spiral notepad to refresh myself on some particulars, but I didn’t need to go digging through my files to remember one of his proposals.

He planned on eliminating the Department of Education — as the son and grandson of public educators, that really raised an eyebrow (in fact, I think it raised both).

Specifically, Ramaswamy’s idea was to use the billions of dollars in former DOE funding to foster school choice. He also called teachers unions “the number one shackle on public schools,” and he claimed eliminating them would increase competition between public and private schools which he argued would result in “true choice” for families.

He also said he’d consider shuttering other three-letter government agencies like the FBI, IRS, ATF and CDC — all in the interest of weeding out bureaucratic influence in the U.S government, of course (and let’s remember he’s now poised to become an non-elected official with the ability to hold sway over government entities) — but nixing the DOE was the one that really baffled me.

You see, I thought that public education exists because we as a country agreed everyone should have equal access to education, regardless of what demographics they may or may not fall into.

And it was my understanding that part of the Department of Education’s job is to make sure the education the public is receiving meets acceptable standards — local entities would have set those educational benchmarks under Ramaswamy’s plan.

That may sound good on the surface. Calls for limited federal government often do. But let’s not forget that preserving individual states’ rights was a talking

point among those who resisted the ruling in Brown v. Board of Education, and some states were actually successful in putting new laws on the books to skirt the law and avoid providing education to students equally under the law.

Now, to be clear, even though I’m a public school graduate through and through, I realize there are plenty of private schools in Iowa and elsewhere in the country that provide quality education, even if they aren’t subject to the same requirements as their public counterparts. Both can exist in the same sphere, because they were created for similar yet distinct purposes.

I think we all too often equate our system of government with a for-profit business, when it’s not meant to be. I mean, I’m not any more thrilled about $35 trillion in federal debt than anyone else is, and yes, things should be done to cut down on unnecessary spending — U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley’s beef with the Pentagon over the purchase of $14,000 toilet seats in 2018 comes to mind (Grassley just might be my favorite sitting Republican — even if you disagree with him, he’s generally got years of experience to back up what he’s saying).

Again, I could be wrong, but I was pretty sure the return on public services — like education — wasn’t meant to be a monetary one. Rather it comes in the form of a population who is well-prepared to contribute to society when they become adults.

And in some ways, I understand the impulse to hack and slash at what often seems like an overly bloated government. But too often, we want to apply broad solutions to relatively specific issues within our government.

For example, not that long ago, Sen. Grassley felt the Obama Administration’s approach to the Waters of the United States rule was worded so broadly that it could have conceivably been interpreted to apply to a pothole in a farm’s driveway that just happened to collect a bit of rainwater overnight (there I go citing Grassley again).

And I think the idea of eliminating entire departments which oversee things like public education seems alarmingly broad — and frankly heavy-handed — especially when that idea was proposed by someone who is now in line to head up a department that might be given the authority to do exactly that.

I’d say we need to take a breath and slow things down, but unfortunately, if the proposed Department of Government Efficiency ends up being structured the way some expect it to be, you and I won’t have any say in the matter (so much for limited federal government, I guess). It makes me think of when Grassley called the Senate a “cooling saucer” for heated legislation from the U.S. House, saying each provision in a bill needed to be thought through thoroughly (alright, that’s the third time I’ve cited Chuck Grassley in this column, so I guess he really must be one of my favorite legislators).

And I’m hoping more folks in D.C. will be able to somehow cool any hot-headed ideas that may come their way over the next few years.

Decorah Leader

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Echoes of the Past

A LOOK BACK 50 YEARS AGO- Decorah Viking football players, cheerleaders and coaches gathered near Viking Stadium earlier this fall during Decorah High School Homecoming to commemorate the 1974-75 football team and their memorable Class AAA State Football Championbship victory from 50 years ago. The trophy from back in the day was also on display during the reunion. (Photo by Roz Weis)

Vikings are football champs

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER It was big news back in the fall of 1974 when the Decorah Vikings football team made it to the state playoffs (and beyond).

Spoiler alert: They won the championship in a big game on the Iowa State University campus in Ames in late November of 1974.

Here’s a small sample of the “big news story:” “There is no greater thrill in sports than doing the best you possibly can – and the Decorah Vikings can now sit back and relax, satisfied with the knowledge they are the best in Class AAA. What a pleasure it was to be a part of Decorah’s State Class AAA football championship at the Iowa State University Clyde Williams Field in Ames. A Decorah crowd estimated at about 2,000 was excited and happy over the way the local Vikings dominated the Atlantic Trojans in the title game, posting a decisive 23-6 victory. Once again, Tom Hovey was the bread-andbutter runner of the Viking attack! Quarterback Paul Bruemmer showed he can pass when he wants!”

The newspaper published volumes about the grand celebration welcoming the Vikings home after the victory. Coaches, players and cheerleaders were given rousing praise at the “Welcome Home” event, which was held in the high school gymnasium. Decorah’s mayor, Chamber of Commerce president and other dignitaries were on hand to congratulate Coach Dick Wuest and the team. Coach Wuest was awarded State Football Coach of the Year honors later that academic year.

Teammates from that era joined coaches and cheer squad at a gathering this past fall during DHS Homecoming Weekend. They waved to fans along the parade route and gathered near Viking Stadium to share fond memories from that memorable season.

Here are more headlines from the past:

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YEARS AGO - 1944: A peeping tom who had been bothering some folks in West Decorah has been accosted. The local police hope for some peace in the future. Officials noted they believe the menace will be cured for some time. …FDR has won the election and Dewey conceded. Winneshiek County voters gave Dewey a margin of 740 votes over Roosevelt. …That famous jalopy “Deacon’s Shay” owned by E.Y. Youman, was used in transporting some newlyweds on a rough ride down Water Street the other day. It was quite a noisy ride for the local couple. …Decorah is now boasting the largest number of Girl Scout Troops in the history of that organization. There are now 11 troops in the community.

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YEARS AGO - 1954: Two young boys were seen shooting their .22 rifles at tombstones at Phelps Cemetery recently. There also have been other acts of vandalism reported at the cemetery in recent weeks. …A barn raising took place recently at the farm of Albert Nesvik, situated two miles south of Ridgeway. …Carl “Pete” Ingvolstad, an Explorer Scout of Troop 68 here in town, was selected as a finalist to represent the area at a Boy Scout meeting in Washington, D.C.

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YEARS AGO - 1964: There is some big news to report from the sports pages. The Decorah Viking cross country team has captured the State Class AA Championship title at a meet in Des Moines.

The Vikings, who were not even rated an outside chance before the meet began, left the experts second-guessing themselves, as the team finished nine points in front of second-place Red Oak. Top individual runners from Decorah were Greg Gilbertson and John Sheridan. …Anyone in Iowa applying for a driver’s license for the first time will now receive a one-year “temporary” permit instead of a regular license. The new law is intended to reduce

teen driving violations, because one conviction of a single moving violation will invalidate that temporary license. …The annual Decorah Chamber of Commerce Halloween Costume Parade drew nearly 1,000 children. .

YEARS AGO - 1974: Voters have approved a $850,000 bond issue for a 62-bed addition to the Winn e shiek County Care Center near Decorah.

The addition should be completed within the next year.

The referendum earned o v e r whelming approval by county voters. …The Decorah Board of Adjustment recentl y denied several requests for sign variances for local businesses.

The board said they believe signs must be smaller than 50-square feet in size and less than 25-feet high.

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YEARS AGO - 1984: The Decorah Vikings lost their 3-A football playoff game to Oelwein by a score of 28-27 in two overtimes.

All-conference recognition honors were awarded to Scott Spilde, Vernon Stoskopf, Mike Ashbacher, Mike Bockman, D.J. Friest, Greg Akre, Randy Vine and Eric Sorum.

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YEARS AGO - 1994: Laura Hoeg, a local celebrity known as “The Nisse Lady,” has passed away. She is remembered for her rosemaling and design of the wooden “Nisse,” Norwegian elves found in windows of hundreds of area homes. …The Decorah Viking football team takes a run for their 5th 3A State Football Title this month. They defeated Hampton-Dumont 32-15 to advance to the play-offs. Their next

game will be against Waverly-Shell Rock. The Vikings are making their 11th tournament appearance this fall.

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YEARS AGO 2004: A record number of Winneshiek County voters turned out for the November 2004 election. Winneshiek County Auditor Georgiann Schweinefus reports there were 10,849 votes cast. A record 3,323 absentee ballots were included in that total. …While the national economy chugs along, Decorah ranks No. 1 in retail sales among 15 Iowa towns of similar size. The announcement was made by an ISU Extension Specialist from a study by Dr. Ken Stone. …The Decorah City Council has been made aware of a growing deer population in town.

Council member Steve Matter said a lot of folks near Phelps Park can’t have a garden and are losing shrubbery to the deer.

There is some talk of shooting the deer or issuing bow licenses for taking deer within the city limits. The council has decided to refer the matter to its public safety committee.

10

YEARS AGO - 2014: The No. 3 South Winn Warriors football team has advanced to the Class 1A quarterfinals at the UNI Dome in Cedar Falls. The South Winn team will do battle with district foe No. 10 Dike-New Hartford for the second time in four weeks. …For the 3rd year in a row, the Decorah Viking Girls’ Cross Country team has finished on top in the state. The team earned the class 3A State title in Fort Dodge, with 66 points. They edged Gilbert with 69 points to earn the top honors.

A prediction of life under next Trump presidency Donald J. Trump, president elect, will soon be in office. Remembering his past words is a good way to look at his and our future now.

Not long ago, we were told he wanted to be president for life. And we would never have to vote again. Removing the constitution is a part of his plan.

Representative government

would no longer exist. Project 2025 provides a roadmap for “the next conservative president” to downsize the federal government and fundamentally change how it works. And don’t forget, the Supreme Court has infused him with a broad new immunity from prosecution.

Life under an autocratic/fascist system will be different

than the present. Everyone will be affected. The older generation will pass away after living under a democracy. The younger generation will be faced with another way of life.

The future is here now.

John Carver Decorah

OBITUARIES/NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Dean Darrington

Carl Bergan

Oct. 13, 1969 - Nov. 11, 2024

Oct. 3, 1925 - Nov. 11, 2024

Dean Willard Darrington, 99, of Rushford, Minnesota, and former longtime Hesper-area farmer, died Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, at Gundersen Healthcare in La Crosse, Wi s c o n s i n , surrounded by family.

Dean Dean was Darrington born on Oct. 3, 1925, on the farm in Hesper Township of Winneshiek County to Willard and Cora (Lee) Darrington. He attended the Darrington Country School and graduated from the Mabel High School in 1943. After high school, he started farming and on June 19, 1949, was married to Shirley Olson at the Hesper Lutheran Church. From that marriage, Dean and Shirley had four children: Julie, Steven, Joan and Edward. Dean had a dairy herd for many years until 1972 when he started up an egg production facility with tens of thousands of chickens. When he first started farming his fad bought him two horses which had previously pulled the Mabel school bus. So in his lifetime of farming, he went from horses to

work the land to the last tractor he drove which was self-steering. He retired from farming in the fall of 2005. Shirley passed away on Feb. 4, 2005.

After Shirley’s passing, Dean took up dancing again with a group from Decorah at Nob Hill. This is where he met Diane Rostvold. They were married on Oct. 19, 2007. They continued to enjoy dancing and took many trips together including Hawaii and Alaska. They spent many winters in Venice, Florida near his brother Davis and wife, Shirley. In 2020 they moved back to Minnesota permanently to be closer to family. At 93, Dean took up building doll and light houses and just finished a doll house the weekend before he passed.

Dean was a member of the Hesper Lutheran Church where he was the treasurer for 29 years. He also served as President of the Winneshiek County Cattlemen’s Association and was on the Board of Directors of the Mabel Creamery.

Dean is survived by his wife Diane of Rushford; children: Steven D. (Donella), Joan (Rich) Smith and Edward; sonin-law, Melvin Laisy; step-children: Michelle (Darin) Cole,

Rusty (Jill) Rostvold and Tiffany (Aaron) Wilcox; grandchildren: Matthew (Jenessa) Laisy, Rebecca (Noah) Wilcox, Andrew (Niki) Darrington, Melissa (Chris) Wicklund, Patrick (Nikki) Darrington, Amy (Jon) Doerrfeld, Maria (David) Romero, Heidi (Bryce) Muenchow, Joseph (Lorien Sopchak) Darrington, Jonathan (Wren) Darringway, Zac (Kelly) West, Dalton (Natalie) Rostvold, Violet and Tony Cole, Ethan, Sarah, Ben and Addie Wilcox; 21 great-grandchildren; brother, Davis (Shirley) Darrington; and sister, Harriett Hoff.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley; daughter, Julie Laisy; daughter-in-law, Lois Darrington; grandson, P.J. Smith; great-grandson, Adler Darrington; and brother-in-law, Lyle Hoff.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 23 at the Hesper Lutheran Church in Hesper. Burial will be in the Hesper Lutheran Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the church prior to the service.

The Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel is assisting with arrangements.

en was a member of Henrytown Lutheran Church in rural Canton where she served as deacon for nine years, sang in the church choir and was a member of the Mary Circle and WELCA. Her special interests included her vegetable and berry gardens and mowing and caring for her yard. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting and hardanger and traveling, especially with Zimmer Tours in the United States and Canada. She also visited several countries in Europe with her friends. She enjoyed being a member of the Canton Lunch Bunch and the Canton Historical Society. She was active in the SAIL exercise program.

Helen is survived by two sons: Thomas L. (Barbara) Davis and William H. Davis, both of Canton; grandson, James (Kristi) Davis of Canton; granddaughter, Jennifer (Peter) Erickson of Chatfield, Minnesota; five great grandchildren: Brent (Crystal) Erickson of

Ostrander, Minnesota, Chandler (Aleksie) Erickson, Davis Erickson and fiancé Abby Wieser of Rochester, Minnesota, Delanie Davis (friend Nathan Cremer) of Harmony, and Avery (Cody) Lueck of Canton; five great-great-grandchildren Ryder and Rhiley Vreeland of Harmony, Sadie and Daisy Erickson of Fountain, Minnesota, and Sutton Jo Lueck of Canton; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother; her husband, Tom Davis (April 1990); brother-in-law, Carl Broeking (2007); brother and sister-in-law Leonard and Marcia Gorsegner; sister, Regina (Gorsegner) Broeking; and daughter-in-law, Diane Davis.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Nov. 16 at the Henrytown Lutheran Church in rural Canton. Burial was in the church cemetery.

The Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel assisted with arrangements.

Helen Davis

April 12, 1925 - Nov. 12, 2024 Helen Elizabeth (Gorsegner) Davis, 99, died Nov. 12, 2024, at her home in Canton, Minnesota.

Helen was born Easter Sunday morning, April 12, 1925, to Gustav and Ella (Hansen) Gorsegner in rural Thorp, Helen Davis Wisconsin. She was baptized May 10, 1925, and confirmed Aug. 18, 1938, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in rural Thorp.

She graduated from Thorp High School in 1943 and was employed several years at Thorp Finance Coop.

Helen Gorsegner and Thomas Edward Davis were united in marriage on Feb. 19, 1946, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

They moved to Canton in 1957 where she was bookkeeper for her husband’s business, Davis Construction. She also worked at the Canton State Bank. Hel-

Service Notices DARLENE STRINMOEN, 98 of Decorah, died Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, at Aase Haugen Senior Services in Decorah.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Nov.19 at Highland Lutheran Church in Decorah with Rev. Matthew Becker presiding. Burial was in the

church cemetery.

ALEX SCHMITT, 87, of St. Lucas, died Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, at Stoney Brook Village in West Union. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 22 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church,

215 East Main St., St. Lucas, with Rev. Nick Radloff presiding. Burial will be in the church cemetery with full military rites. Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church and from 9:30-10:15 a.m. before the service Friday.

Holiday Lights

Carl Marvin Bergan took his last breath here on Earth on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, with his family by his side in the home he built for them.

Carl was born Oct. 13, 1969, in Decorah to Marvin and Maxine (Roher). Carl Bergan He was baptized and confirmed at Orleans Lutheran Church.

Carl graduated from Crestwood High School in 1989, where he excelled in cross country and track, a tradition he passed along to his daughters.

He met the love of his life, Rhonda (Maroushek), and they married on Aug. 14, 1999, in Ridgeway. They were blessed with two beautiful girls, Abbie and Ella.

Carl was a hard-working man, willing to help anybody, and more importantly, willing to talk to anybody within earshot. Whether it was over a beer at a local brewery, running into someone while out fishing or striking up a conversation just about anywhere. Carl could chat with anybody willing to listen; if they had the time to visit, he made the time for them.

Carl’s hard work ethic was evident in the home he built for his family. He dreamed of building a log cabin and put in hours and hours of work to make that a reality. The house he built was full of love, all due to knowing how much effort he put into it. He was always willing to host family functions and was excited to share what he would make for the meal and give step-by-step instructions on how he made it and what ingredients he used. He also ensured that everyone in attendance would be trying whatever food or fermented malt beverage he developed.

Carl’s working career started at an early age as a young farmer, helping his dad with whatever chores were needed and then farming with neighbors and friends. He later tried his hand

at machine work, operating first in Cresco, then working at Decorah Tool & Die, where he developed a close bond with those who worked by his side. When no longer able to work, Carl appreciated having his work friends come to visit to talk about their employment day and current machining projects.

Throughout his short but meaningful life, church was a staple for Carl. He often joked that he was on church council for more years than he wasn’t.

Orleans Lutheran Church and the Ridgeway Lutheran Parish were more to him than just a Sunday service; he wanted to ensure that a small community parish would be there for years to come.

Family vacations for many years included a week spent in Hayward, Wisconsin, first taking his dad there frequently, then being able to share the lake-front time with his own family. Carl was often the first to get up in the morning (because that’s when the fish are biting), until late in the day, only coming back to the cabin to throw some food on the charcoal grill or to take his girls to the candy store downtown. But as soon as we were back to the cabin, you could be sure that he grabbed his fishing pole and his girls to take them out to various fishing locations.

His most significant accomplishments in life were his daughters. He taught them both to fish – even if he had to bait the leeches or take the fish off the hook for them until they could brave it themselves. Not only was he their personal fishing guide, but he was also their number one cheerleader. He was sure to be at every event and was never afraid to voice his opinion (very loudly) at a bad call at their games, much to his daughters’ embarrassment.

On April 19, 2023, it was discovered Carl had a brain tumor, later diagnosed as Glioblastoma. We knew this type of cancer was going to be a fight, but knowing Carl, a fight was what

was going to happen. He battled relentlessly and was willing to try anything the Mayo Clinic doctors threw at him. When all treatment options were exhausted, Carl and his family made the decision to focus on the remaining time God allowed them to be together.

Once Carl decided to focus on his time left, Howard County Hospice was called. Not only did they support Carl through his needs, but they were also available as listening ears and crying shoulders for Rhonda and his girls. The Hospice team is to be commended for the caring support they provided.

Glioblastoma didn’t take Carl; Carl took glioblastoma and showed it how to put up a fight and how a person can be just as stubborn as the disease.

Most of all, he showed the rest of us that through thick and thin, love will overcome all.

Carl is survived and will be truly missed by his wife, Rhonda; daughters, Abbie and Ella; his best friend, Buddy (his black lab); his mother, Maxine (Norman) Quam; siblings Debbie (Terry) Barger and nieces Missy (Ryan) Gripp, Tiffany (Ryan) Holtgraves, Jen (Matt) Smith; Glenn Spalding and nieces Rachel and Mara; Kathy (David) Cotant and nieces Dana and Whitney, nephew Nate (Michelle) Cotant; Charlene (Wade) Beavers and niece Shelby (David) Brust, nephews, Caleb and Carson; Kevin (Sonoko) Barnett; father-in-law, Bob Maroushek; sister-in-law, Dawn (Nic) Doughan; and many, many uncles, aunts and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Marvin Bergan; twin sisters, Dawn and Donna; grandparents, Leona Roher and Mabel and Carl N. Bergan; and mother-in-law, Phyllis Maroushek.

Funeral services were held Monday, Nov. 18 at Orleans Lutheran Church in Cresco with a celebration of life service following at Ridgeway Community Center in Ridgeway.

sity of Exeter in Exeter, England. While serving in the U.S. Army in France, John met Mary Bishop, his British bride-to-be, whom he married in her hometown, Kingsbury-Episcopi, England in 1960. The couple later settled in Glen Ellen, their longtime home in California’s Wine Country.

An English teacher and poet, John’s publications include a book, “Another Kind of Laughter,” Selected Poems, 19692023. His poems appeared in numerous journals including The Coe Review, published by

Coe College.

John is survived by Mary, his wife of 63 years; daughters, Catherine (Martin) Schwebel and Genevieve (Ted) McCann, both of Petaluma, California; five grandsons; two great-grandsons; and sister, Elizabeth Field Hogan of Pompton Plains, New Jersey.

John was predeceased by his parents, Henry Paul and Iduna Bertel Field of Decorah, and brother, Bert Field (Anne) of Newport Beach, California.

John Field

Sept. 24, 1934 - May 10, 2024 Decorah native John Andrew Field died May 10, 2024.

A resident of Glen Ellen, California, John was born on Sept.

24, 1934, to Dr. H.P. and Iduna Field in Decorah.

A member of the Decorah John Field High School Class of 1952, John graduated from the University of Iowa and earned a graduate degree in literature from the Univer-

LEFT- Tiffanie Stanbrough, retail closing specialist for FCSAmerica, hangs lights on a roof for Helping Services for Youth and Families’ 20th annual Holiday Lights fundraising event. BELOW- Terri Holthaus (left) attempts to untangle a string of lights with FCSAmerica coworker Bailey Sadler. (Photos by Zach Jensen)

continued from front services to families in the area since 1973, and for the last 20 years, the Decorah-based organization has been dazzling Decorah with its Holiday Lights fundraiser. Holiday Lights was first held in 2005 with 38 displays, and in recent years, more than twice that number of displays have been created by local businesses and families.

Eggland said all the funds raised during the Holiday Lights event support Helping Service’s programs, including domestic abuse advocacy, inhome family education, prevention services and a youth mentoring program.

Eggland said the Holiday Lights event marks the beginning of the holiday season for him and his staff.

“It’s fun to see people get excited as they’re walking by,” he said. “It is a lot of work, but it’s

5

really rewarding to see all the smiles it brings to people. It’s just a great tradition, and it really is a community event.”

Holiday Lights will return

to a drive-through-only format rom 5-9 p.m. every night, Thanksgiving through Christmas night.

NEWS

6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Survey shows county residents value water and air quality

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR Officials with the Winneshiek County Planning and Zoning Commission unveiled the results of a study aimed at identifying important natural and historic resources in the area.

Data from the local survey was presented on Nov. 14 at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company in Decorah, and organizers said the public indicated some clear preferences for protecting the county’s water and air quality.

A survey several years in the making Wendy Stevens, chair of the county’s P&Z commission, said the commission was tasked with developing regulations for frac-sand mining in 2015, amid concerns the industry was gaining traction in some regions.

Stevens said, around that time, the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors also requested the commission develop a potential overlay zone to protect valuable resources across the county.

The county already had overlays at that time to protect bluff land and public well water, according to Stevens, and the commission began developing a public survey to help identify other county resources residents valued. The commission began the first of what was to be a series of community meetings in March of 2020 — the COVID-19 pandemic reached Iowa within days and put those sessions on hold for more than two years.

Officials began their work anew in the fall of 2022, repeating the few public meetings they had been able to hold.

Community members across the county were asked to mark areas on county maps which they felt represented important local resources — Stevens said many marked areas like the Turkey River and Lake Meyer.

A team led by Rachel Brummel, an associate professor of environmental studies at Luther

College, examined those results and developed general categories from the public’s various responses.

Organizers created a survey which was sent to area residents in 2023, asking them to rank those general categories. Stevens said officials mailed out 2,200 questionnaires — she said voter rolls were used to achieve an equal mix of residents from various areas of Winneshiek County, while also ensuring no more than one survey was sent to any given household. About 683 surveys were returned, which Stevens and Brummel said is higher than generally expected for such surveys.

“What that means is that people in Winneshiek County feel strongly about protecting natural resources, and they wanted their voices to be heard,” Stevens said.

The survey was also made available online, but those results were logged as a separate appendix in the final report.

Brummel explained results from individuals who actively opt into a survey tend to be more polarized and can potentially shift the results — she later indicated the local online results followed that pattern.

Brummel’s researchers eventually tabulated the results and presented the community’s top six priorities last week.

The top responses Water, air quality and farmland were the top three resources respondents felt were important, Brummel said, with public recreation spaces, natural geologic features and historic resources rounding out the bottom half of the results.

“Just because these were the lowest, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t pay attention to them,” Brummel said. “Everything was ranked highly, and we would expect that because these resources were chosen because the community had already identified them as important in the community meetings.”

Water saw the strongest re-

Winneshiek County Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Wendy Stevens (left) talked with several members of the public following last week’s presentation. (Photos by Seth Boyes) sponse among survey respondents, Brummel said, with many participants noting the importance of drinking water and the region’s karst topography. Others discussed the impacts of agricultural practices on the community’s water — Brummel noted some respondents felt ag producers negatively impact water supplies, while others said they felt the ag industry received too much blame.

About 98 percent of the respondents said they agreed or strongly agreed water was an important local resource, and more than 97 percent said they feel a responsibility to protect local waters. Percentages declined as the survey asked more specific questions, such as whether local government officials should prioritize protecting a given resource, whether building on certain land should be limited to protect the resource and whether land use should be limited to protect that resource — a pattern which generally held across each of the six categories. However, at least 80 percent of the respondents were supportive of the hypothetical limits aimed at protecting local water sources.

The public’s opinion on the importance of local air quality was less than a percent be-

hind the figures for local water sources, with several individuals citing confined animal feeding operations and gravel dust as contributors to local air quality issues.

Brummel said she was somewhat surprised to see air quality rank as high as it did, but she also pointed out the survey was conducted during the summer of 2023 — when smoke from Canadian wildfires was drifting across the Midwest.

“That is what people were breathing and thinking when they took that survey,” Brummel said. “To me, that doesn’t mean that this is not a valuable finding. To me, it actually shows how people can prioritize things when they see it being threatened in front of their face.”

Support for farmland more nuanced Farmland rounded out the local public’s top three resources, according to Brummel, but many responses were paired with qualifiers and drew distinctions between types of agriculture — large commercial operations or confinements as opposed to small family farms.

“Small family farms and small diversified farms are worth protecting for the diversity of the landscapes on these

Rachel Brummel, an associate professor of environmental studies at Luther College, presented results from a county-wide survey aimed at identifying local resources important to area residents. farms, to keep them from subdivisions, and keep it from large monocrops or CAFOS,” one respondent wrote.

Others cited property rights when asked whether they would support limiting land use to protect farmland, and others noted the overall importance of Midwestern food production.

“With predicted food insecurities caused by climate change, we need to keep this wonderful northeast Iowa land, soil and water healthy,” another respondent wrote.

The survey data showed about 96 of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed farmland is an important resource for Winneshiek County — less than 3 percent behind air quality — but Brummel said the percentage of people who strongly agreed the county should take action to protect farmland was relatively low among the six categories.

Stevens also noted the state preempts county regulation of agriculture, and she encouraged attendees to contact state legislators if they feel strongly about the need for change. Former State Rep. John Beard of Decorah attended last week’s presentation. Beard was a member of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors when the initial request for the study

arose in 2015, and he said having such data in hand will likely be helpful in advocating for changes at the county and state levels.

“This adds to the credibility of the decisions those people make,” Beard said of the study.

“They can say ‘We do represent the will of the people.’”

Looking ahead Stevens said the county planning and zoning commission has yet to begin working on any new overlay zones to protect Winneshiek County’s resources — she said the commission is currently focused on addressing accessory dwellings — but she said the commission will very likely use the survey data in the future.

And she hopes they won’t be the only ones.

Stevens said other entities, such as Winneshiek County Conservation, the Decorah Parks and Recreation Department and the general public, may use the available data.

The final report is available for free at winneshiekc o u n t y. i o w a . g o v / w p - c o n tent/uploads/2024/11/ Winneshiek-County-Natural-Historic-Resources-Report. pdf.

Witnesses take stand in Jones arson trial Iowa DPS expert calls fire ‘incendiary in nature’ A jury found Mindy Jones guilty of first-degree arson the afternoon of Tuesday, Nov. 19. Due to press deadlines, an update on this week’s verdict will appear in the Nov. 28 edition of the Decorah Leader.

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER Testimony began Wednesday, Nov. 13 in the trial of Mindy Jones, who is facing charges of first degree arson and animal abuse in connection with a Feb-

ruary 2022 in Waukon.

The building’s first floor was home to Tin Rust and Harmony, Jones’ home decor and t-shirt business. Residential apartments were located on the second level. The fire destroyed the building, displaced the res-

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idents and resulted in the death of a dog.

In his opening statement Tuesday, prosecuting attorney Anthony Gericke told jurors Jones torched her building for one reason — the money. Prosecutors pointed to a $900,000 State Farm Insurance policy Jones had taken out on the building 58 days before it burned.

He argued Jones’ business was failing and could not generate enough income to cover Jones’ growing debt.

“Mindy Jones was financially shattered and overdrawn at the bank, her mortgage was upside down at the bank. Paychecks and rent checks are bouncing,” Gericke told the court. “She turned to the only thing of value she has left — the building she bought the insurance policy on two months earlier.”

Jones had purchased the commercial building for $62,000 in December of 2021 and secured

Ribbon Cutting

Celebration!

Congratulations, Sabin Family Table!

CELEBRATING

1

YEAR

507 W. Water St., Decorah 563.382.3990 | decorahareachamber.com

Congratulations to Amanda and Corey Sabin on their first year of ownership of Sabin Family Table!

Pictured is the Family Table crew along with Chamber Ambassadors Tade Kerndt, Adam Baker, Holly Allen, Joanie Rollins, Joe Hammel, Tara McConnell, Chris Hicks and Dallas Steffen.

a mortgage —including a line of credit — totaling more than $181,000. Jones soon listed the building for sale, and she received an offer for $75,000 the week prior to the fire. However, officials with FreedomBank testified they met with Jones two days before the fire and could not entertain the $75,000 offer, saying Jones would still have owed more than $100,000 on the mortgage. The day prior to the fire, Jones was also served notice and demand to pay $32,000 to local artist Marsha Angell for inventory, bounced checks and an unpaid business loan.

Jones’ Waukon business burned the evening of Feb. 13, 2022.

Her cousin Jese Lewey discovered the fire shortly before 6:30 p.m. that day, according to his testimony. Lewey had asked Jones if he would store several bins of hunting and fishing gear in the store’s basement. Jones was half-a-block away at Goodfellas Party Bar when Lewey called to say he was having trouble with the door. Jones unlocked the store’s rear entrance, but Lewey testified Jones didn’t stick around long. He said he spent less than a minute in the basement and didn’t see Jones when he returned to the first floor — but he did notice a flickering on the wall near the cash register and counter.

“I looked over the back of the counter, and I saw a fire,” Lewey said. “It was underneath the counter. I can’t pinpoint exactly what was burning, but I want to say it was paper.”

He exited the building and called both Jones and 911.

The Waukon Fire Department was on the scene with 30 firefighters within minutes.

“We arrived in full turnout gear — the guys were as well armed as they could get,” Waukon Fire Chief Dave Martin

Mickayla Close, who lived with her family in an apartment above Jones’ store, became emotional on the stand Thursday as she recalled her elderly dog Molly becoming trapped in the building during the fire. The dog died of smoke inhalation shortly after being rescued by firefighters. (Photo by Denise Lana) said. “At first we had two guys enter, but those two retreated due to extensive heat and lack of visibility.”

Waukon firefighters called for mutual aid from four other area fire departments, due to the fire’s intensity, the building’s height and its proximity to other downtown structures.

Waukon FD soon received mutual aid from four area fire departments due to the overwhelming intensity of the fire combined with the height of the buildings and their proximity to one another.

The court also heard from 27-year-old Devinn Hill, who lived in an upper level apartment adjacent to Jones’ building. He testified he was unaware the neighboring building was on fire until smoke began to roll under his apartment door — he grabbed his pets and escaped in his stocking feet, he said.

“I could see flames, and the nails in the stairs were hot,” Hill said. “I was scared.”

He said the windows of Jones’ building exploded just as he and a friend were gathering near Allamakee Street.

“Glass went all over the concrete,” Hill said. “I was 3 feet or so — a door width — away. It

was hot, and glass shot as wide as Allamakee sidewalks. It blew glass into the side of a van.”

Special Agent Ross Dillavou, an arson investigator with the Iowa Departgment of Public Safety, said the exploding windows were key to understanding the strength, speed and temperature of the fire inside the building at the time.

“Glass goes through a chemical change in a fire,” he said.

“For a room the size of Jones’ store to fill up with enough heat to create enough pressure for that glass to fail and explode outward, it would have to be more than just a fire caused by pieces of paper, in my expert opinion.”

Firefighters continued to battle the fire into the next day, but the flames destroyed not only Tin Rust and Harmony but an adjacent structure as well, and several other buildings in that block were damaged. The response depleted Waukon’s waters supply, prompting officials there to issue a boil advisory and call off school due to the lack of water. No human lives

Jones trial continued on page 12

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

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SW musical production opens this Friday RIGHT- Ariel, Sebastian, Flounder and other Disney characters will come to life on the South Winn stage this weekend as students are set for their fall musical production, which will take place at 7 p.m. Nov. 22-23 and at 2 p.m. Nov. 24.

Members of the cast include (front, left to right) Claire Becker (Mersister), Madalyn Desselle (Mersister), Maya Lensing (Mersister), Jordan Peterson (Flounder), Hector Aquino (Sebastian), Gavin Feickert (Scuttle), Jena Peters (Mersister), Cloey Zweibohmer (Mersister), Grace Zweibohmer (Mersister); (back) Luke Kruckman (light board/sound board operator), Robert Aquino (Windward), Matthew Horstman (Chef Louis), Violet Schmelzer (Flotsam), Rachel Johnson (Jetsam), Madalin Jansen (Ursula), Grace Baker (Ariel), John Donovan (Prince Eric), Cooper Huinker (Grimsby), Henry Schmitt (King Triton), Matthew Donovan (Pilot), Adam Schmitt (Leeward) and Levi Feickert (light board/sound board operator). (Photos

by Becky Walz)

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crescotheatreoperahouse.com ABOVE- Chef Louis (Matthew Horstman) spots Sebastian (Hector Aquino) under a table.

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Carver to embody famed author during ‘Dickens on Mill Street’

Prodigious produce

Dervin Ludeking of Decorah couldn’t help but satisfy his curiosity as to the weight of a sizable apple he plucked from a tree Oct. 29 on his son Jacob’s farm in Frankville Township. Ludeking carried the apple — approximately the size of a softball — to the Decorah Fareway, where he weighed it on the grocery store’s produce scale. He said the jumbo fruit pushed the needle to 1.25 pounds. Ludeking plans to keep the apple for a time and show it off a bit, but he said he’ll eventually share it and other harvested apples with his neighborhood birthday club. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

Come Grow With Us!

Actor Ray Carver is scheduled to give a performance of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” Dec. 7. (Photo submitted) producer for community, educational and professional theatres. Carver will be performing as Dickens — portraying more than 40 different characters — as he tells the tale of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge.

Other “Dickens on Mill Street” events will take place from 1-4 p.m. thad day at the Winneshiek Co. Heritage Center. The historical society will celebrate the legacy of Winneshiek County’s early English settlers and those descended

from the English. Lemon curd tarts and other English delicacies will be served by a local Englishman and his wife, brass bands and carolers will entertain, in addition to Mother Christmas — the English Mrs. Claus — and live Dickens characters. The afternoon will also feature displays of early English settlers in Winneshiek County, horse-drawn vis-a-vis carriage rides at $5 per person.

A freewill donation will be accepted.

Quilts of Valor presented on Veterans Day Gundersen Health says connecting with nature may benefit wellness A group of seven veterans received Quilts of Valor on Veterans Day at the All Vets Club in Decorah. Pictured are (front row) Delbert Matt, Gabriel Fuerhelm, Devin Creek, Doug Abbott (back row) Marvin Schnur, Rodney Rovang and Donald Nelson. (Photo submitted)

Those receiving Quilts of Valor during the Veterans Day program at South Winn were (front, left to right) Richard Hendrickson, Mark Massman, Amanda Mikesh, Tiffany (Klimesh) Weaver; (back) Lee Hendrickson, Logan Weaver and David Werges. (Photo by Becky Walz)

A practice known as forest bathing is gaining recognition at Gundersen Health System for its potential benefits in promoting overall well-being. Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku in Japanese, is the practice of immersing oneself in the natural environment, particularly forests, to enhance mental, emotional and physical health. Gunderson officials said it involves mindfully engaging with nature and using all five senses to connect with the surroundings.

According to Kati Thompson, clinical manager of Behavioral Health at Gundersen Health System, research has shown forest bathing offers several benefits to individuals of all ages.

“Spending time in nature has a deep impact on our well-being,” Thompson said. “Forest bathing allows us to disengage from the demands of modern life and tap into the healing energy of our natural world.”

Information provided by Gunderson said forest bathing has been found to reduce stress levels and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. The practice

Chris Sekorski of Gundersen’s Unity House participates in forest bathing on a recent morning in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

(Photo submitted)

may also boost the body’s immune system.

“The phytoncides released by trees and plants in forested areas have been shown to enhance the activity of natural killer cells in the human body,” Gunderson said in statement last week.

“These cells play a crucial role in fighting off infections and diseases, thereby strengthening the immune system.”

The natural surroundings may help individuals reconnect with the natural rhythms of life, according to information from the

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The Winneshiek County Historical Society’s third annual “Dickens on Mill Street” celebration slated for Saturday, Dec. 7, and organizers said they’ve added something new to this year’s event. Actor Ray Carver is scheduled to give a performance of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Weiser Carriage House just west of First Lutheran Church in Decorah. Tickets for the performance event are $15 per person and are available at Kanpai Soda Shop — 404 W. Water St. — the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce — 507 W. Water St. — and the Winneshiek Co. Historical Society — 302 S. Mill St. — during regular business hours. Seating is limited and the public is encouraged to buy tickets soon. Doors will be open at 6 p.m., with seating on a first come, first served basis.

Carver has been working for more than 50 years in the theatre industry as an actor, director, designer, playwright and

DECORAH HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS’ SWIMMING

Representing Decorah at the Girls State Swim Meet in 2024 were (l-r) Naomi Kutz, Jenna Schissel, Avalea Burns, Liz Bucksa, Bella Sailor and Grace Baker. (Submitted photo)

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Going undefeated in district play, the Decorah football team finished with a 10-1 record. Members of the 2024 team included (front row, l-r) Nick Lowery, Hunter Quandahl, Jameson LaBelle, Cash Riehle, Jackson Pipho, Gavin Groux, Gatlin Dahlberg, Louis Bucksa, Mason Avila, Will Larson; (second row) Hector Vargas Escobar, William Tallier, Kade O’Hara, Landon Quandahl, Caleb Johnson, Caleb Krieg, William Hahn, Keaton Orris, Kaden Tarwater, Bradan Darling; (third row) Ezra Harman-Wood, Tristan Baker, Jared Pavlovec, Archer Sims, Nathan Friend, Joshua Adam, Cain Monreal-Rice, Carter Dlhy, Tanner Caddell, Ian Giddings; (fourth row) Luke Franzen, Anthony Putnam, Henry Brynsaas, Brayden Wemark, Payton Webb, Trevor Kuennen, Tommy Sexton, Noah Milburn, Ryan Northup, Mason Vote; (back row) Bristol Parker (manager), Ethan Pole, Jared Bucksa, Assistant Coach Matt Kuempel, Assistant Coach Brian Waskow, Head Coach Mike Tangen, Assistant Coach Jesse Halweg, Assistant Coach Josh Fenske, Assistant Coach Alec Zwanziger and Jordan Sims (manager). (Photo by Becky Walz)

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hospital, and spending time in forested environments may enhance cognitive function as well as attention span and creativity.

“In addition, forest bathing has also been found to improve physical well-being,” information from the hospital said. “A single experience can reduce blood pressure, increase heart rate variability and decrease the stress hormone cortisol.”

To learn more about forest bathing, visit the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy website at anft.earth.

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PRIDE OF THE VIKINGS MARCHING BAND

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The band received its 21st consecutive Division 1 rating of Superior at the Iowa High School Music Association’s Marching Festival held in October. Members of the band included (front row, l-r) Grant Zilka, Ansel Kowitz; (second row) Olivia Rissman, Carlton Nordschow, Andrew Carolan, Jerald Thompson, Ezra Harman-Wood, Beau Newhouse, Liam Chamberlain, Kealy Hines, Natalie Goodner, Jameson LaBelle; (third row) Kiele Eberling, Grady Sabelka, Quade Bruening, Ari Albert, Olivia Volkman, Grace Stockman, Jackson Irwin, Lyla Lovstuen; (fourth row) Amelia Pankow, Jay Hawthorn, Kaylie Wemark, Mikayla Hiner, Leah Suhr, Simone Downing, Sophia McGee; (fifth row) Kira Dowden, Bill Fullhart, Walter Davis, Elsa Christman, June Breitenbach-Dirks, Teagan Menke, Kaelyn Kuhn, Kera Walter, Ava Hanson; (sixth row) Lucas Weigle, Victor Biederman, Oskar Swanson, Noah Potvin, Cassie Stammeyer, Mary Brown, Jaylen Klees; (seventh row) Raelyn Newhouse, Amelia Wadsworth, Lily Sandhorst, Kamryn Steines, Jillian Volz, Myla Leitz, Klara Kelly, Max Goodner, Aitor Cuevas, Emma Neebel; (back row) Isaac Bentley, Evan Madsen, Vivian Search, Colin Thompson, Jack Hammell, Joseph McFarlane, Oliver Brummel. Not Pictured are Ava Burreson, Mikael Havens, Derek Hrdlicka, Peyton Kimball, Yoseph Ko, Fox Lana, Logan Nalean-Carlson, Olivia Paulsen, Nils Peterson and Monty Winslow. (Photo courtesy of Tami Bohr)

SOUTH WINN BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY

South Winn freshman Hugh Conway was the lone boy competing in the Class 1A boys’ race earlier in November, finishing 31st overall. (Photo by Becky Walz)

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SOUTH WINN GIRLS’ CROSS COUNTRY

The South Winn girls’ cross country team fell one point shy of making the deck for the fifth straight season at the 2024 state meet Nov. 2 with members (l-r) Maddy Jansen, Tessa Phillips, Karissa Wenthold, Lauren Ondrashek, Annie Hageman, Ava Franzen and Izzy Kuboushek. (Photo by Becky Walz)

DECORAH HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS’ CROSS COUNTRY

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Representing the Decorah girls’ program at the 2024 State Cross Country Meet in early November were (l-r) Riley Christopher, Raelyn Newhouse, Brinlee Courtney, Olivia Volkmann, Deborah Hougen, Leah Garcia-Prats and Amelia Wadsworth.

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DECORAH HIGH SCHOOL BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY

Finishing fourth in Class 3A was the Decorah boys’ cross country team. Pictured are (l-r) Head Coach Brad Johansen, Landyn Hook, Davis Coppola, Garrett See, Grant Zilka, Mitchell Stemper, D’mitry Lesser, Thomas Hammel and Assistant Coach Tim Hayes. (Photo by Becky Walz)

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NEWS

10 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221 FAR LEFT- Decorah-based artist Kelly Ludeking, a 1991 Decorah High School graduate, installs the final plate on the Legacy of Champions monument at Viking Stadium. LEFT- The rear of the bronze sword incorporated into the Legacy of Champions monument bears the name Kelly Ludeking — the artist who designed and cast the sword for the new monument.

(Photos by Zach Jensen)

Monument continued from front age 27 — 10 years later, the Decorah Vikings won their first state football championship.

There would be other championship victories as the years rolled on, but Wuest said there was no single best team in his mind.

“Each team played and won in their own era,” he said. “So, to me, there’s no comparison, because they’re all different.

They all were what they had to be at that time. That monument epitomizes all our teams from the start until today. Our teams today have exactly the same attitude as all those before them, and I’m very happy with how the Decorah program has grown.”

Naslund said he and other past Viking footballers had often talked about creating a monument honoring Decorah’s history of success on the football field, and their nostalgic conversations began taking shape in early 2022. Naslund said the monument committee, which included Decorah alumni Dave Broghamer (‘75), Tom Hovey (‘75), Patrick Williams (‘88), Garth Carlson (‘88), Tom Ryan (‘89), Jason Olejniczak (‘89), Mike Lacey (‘89), Lee Anderson (‘89), Drew Moorcroft (‘90), Garic Hjerleid (‘91) and KD Wuest (‘91), organized the Legacy of Champions Banquet, which was held in September of 2022 at the Oneota Golf and Country Club in Decorah. The event attracted more than 100 Decorah football alumni and supporters who began raising funds for the project.

Drew Moorcroft, who played on the 1987 and 1988 state championship teams, designed the monument.

“The goal of the monument from the beginning was to honor the rich tradition and long historical legacy of the Decorah football program, while also inspiring future teams,” Moorcroft said. “It was also important for us to create a sculptural piece that showcases our ties to the Scandinavian culture of the Decorah community.”

Moorcroft said the monument’s center piece — a bronze sword set in a pillar of granite — was inspired by the “Sverd i Fjell” monument in Hafrsfjord, Norway, which was unveiled in 1983 by King Olav V to commemorate the historic Battle of Hafrsfjord, which took place in the year 872 when King Harald Fairhair gathered all of Norway under one crown.

Iowa Hall of Fame Football Coach Richard Wuest, who first led the Vikings to a state championship victory in 1974, said that in addition to being honored and shocked by the completion of the monument, the sword in the stone is his favorite part of the design.

“The sword in the stone epitomizes what tradition is about, because it connects the players of today with the players of yesterday and the players of the future,” said Wuest, now age 90. “I’m hoping the athletes that use those fields will touch that sword as they pass — giving them that connection which will last throughout their lives.

That’s what I’m most excited about.”

Decorah-based metal artist Kelly Ludeking, a 1991 DHS graduate, cast the bronze for the sword, and he said his design was taken from an authentic Viking sword which was donated

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Mike Wilker, senior pastor of First Lutheran Church in Decorah, attended the ELCA Churchwide Council meeting Nov. 14-17 in Chicago. Wilker is the vice president of the

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quired support from past teammates, the Decorah Athletic Boosters, fans, the community, school administrators and others.

The monument is paid in full, but the committee has a small fund left over and continues to raise money to cover the costs of possible improvements and additions to the obelisks.

“We’re still taking donations, because additions will be needed,” Naslund said. “The monument is going to need periodic updates to display future successes. I’d also like to see someone put a spotlight on the monument for safety and security reasons but also to showcase it.

Most of the games are played at night, and we want people to see this. I think the players and community are going to be very proud of it, and it’s been a real honor to be a part of it all.”

For information on how to contribute to the Legacy of Champions monument, email decorahchampions@gmail. com.

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men and adults by teaching and coaching the importance of excellence in effort, showing up on time and being prepared, the discipline factor and work ethic,” Naslund said. “Ultimately, they taught us all how to be coachable, which is huge when it comes time to get a job and work for an employer. The state and conference championships are byproducts of what they taught their players.”

Wuest recalled the team’s focus ahead of their games and how their discipline carried them through.

“One year, we played Oskaloosa in the quarter finals,” the coach remembered. “When we came on the field to warm up, the Oskaloosa players had a warmup routine that was co-

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to the Vesterheim Museum.

“I was greatly honored to be asked to create a part of this monument,” Ludeking said.

“For my work to be part of Decorah’s athletic tradition for many years to come is humbling, and I’m grateful for that opportunity.”

The monument features of four stones slabs — the sword in the stone stands in front of three marble obelisks entitled “Tradition,” “Champions” and “Legacy.” The Tradition stone displays all state runner-up years, playoff qualification years and all conference and district championships won. The Champions stone, which is taller, displays the Viking insignia and each of the five state championships.

And, the Legacy stone displays names and biographies of Decorah football coaches who have led teams to victories at state championships.

Wuest and his coaching staff, which included fellow Iowa Hall of Fame Coaches Dennis Olejniczak and Bill Post, led the DHS football program to winning three consecutive state championships in 1987, 1988 and 1989 — a trifecta that may have only been achieved by one other team in the history of the sport in Iowa high schools.

Post, the Vikings’ head football coach for the program’s fifth state championship win in 2012, retired in 2018.

“All those coaches — whether it’s the Decade Club or Coaches Post or Wuest with their state championships — helped us become better young

ordinated with their band. One of our players walked up to me and said, ‘What do you think of that?’ I said, ‘We don’t have the time to practice that kind of stuff — the only thing we know is how to play.’ Our practice time was spent getting something done that was going to help us in the game.”

Naslund said he sees a similar quality in today’s players.

“I’ve been to a couple Decorah games this year, and there’s one thing you see, when you watch a Decorah football team, that you don’t see in most other high school football teams,” Naslund said. “You see quiet confidence. You don’t see a lot of exuberating or showboating. The players exude this quiet confidence of ‘We’re well-coached, we’re disciplined and we’re here to get the job done.’ It’s a great thing.”

Naslund went on to say completing the Legacy of Champions monument was a team effort, like any of those displayed on the gridiron — he said it re-

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ka Native, Middle Eastern and Arab, and Asian and Pacific Islander - to discuss how their organizations and the ELCA can support diverse communities and work together for racial healing and justice.

Wilker was elected to a sixyear term on the board of White Lutherans for Racial Justice in 2021 and was elected vice-president in 2024. In 2020, ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton appointed him to the Task Force for the Repudiation of the Doctrine of Discovery, a national committee of indigenous and white ministers across the continent.

The Churchwide Council and observers were expected to worship together, receive financial reports, discuss recommendations of the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church, meet with the Luther College Board of Regents and engage in racial and gender justice training.

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

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Community briefs County accepting applications for area commissions

Photo submitted

Northern Lights Women’s Chorus to hold fall concert The Northern Lights Women’s Chorus will present its fall concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24 at Decorah Lutheran Church — 309 Winnebago St. in Decorah. The 49-member ensemble, composed of singers from Decorah and nine other communities, will perform a variety of choral music with the theme “Music is Life.”

The program’s wide-ranging selections mainly feature contemporary women composers, with several songs focused on

the joy of music and singing.

Several playful English and Scottish folk songs are included, as well as the joyous spirituals “Gospel Train” and “We’re Goin’ Up to Bethlehem.” The concert will conclude with a piece called “Music, Lead the Way!” Northern Lights’ artistic director is Rachael Buresh, and Mary Beth Bouska serves as collaborative pianist. Intermission music will be provided by soprano Emily Secor, who will

NICC McLainKruse joins Northeast Iowa RSVP Northeast Iowa RSVP announced the addition of a new volunteer coordinator, Michelle McLain-Kruse.

More than 600 people in Winneshiek, Allamakee and Howard counties volunteer for non-profit Michelle groups in McLain-Kruse partnership with RSVP. “Our program continues to grow so it is wonderful to have Michelle join the team” RSVP Director Deana Hageman said. “Having her here to assist volunteers in finding opportunities that match their time availability, knowledge and skills is crucial to our program.”

McLain-Kruse is a Decorah native, a 1987 graduate of North Winneshiek High School and a 1991 graduate of Luther College, with a degree in business management. McLain-Kruse led the Thunder Rode non-profit organization for 16 years, fostering a passion for non-profit organizations. She signed up with RSVP as a volunteer in August of this year, saw a notice for the open position in October and began her new job in November.

“Everybody who’s here wants to be here and wants to serve our communities,” she said.

McLain-Kruse will serve as a point of contact for incoming RSVP volunteers, refer volunteers to opportunities and support them as they volunteer.

She will respond to requests for volunteers from the 82 partner stations with RSVP. Hageman noted volunteers have already logged more than 21,000 hours during the first half of the fiscal year, providing an estimated value of more than $600,000 of service.

McLain-Kruse can be reached at the RSVP office, located on the lower level of the Decorah Public Library, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Fridays or by appointment.

For more information about Northeast Iowa RSVP and opportunities to volunteer, contact McLain-Kruse at rsvp2@ decorahlibrary.org or call 563277-5180.

Riedel has appealed that decision — most recently through a pending case filed in Winneshiek County District Court. An administrative law judge previously affirmed NICC’s decision in May of this year, saying the college had just cause to end Riedel’s employment as NICC president.

A statement issued by the college after the ruling said Riedel had failed to sufficiently improve in areas identified during a previous evaluation. The college said he failed to “build and sustain trust with all stakeholders,” “build and sustain an open, respectful and diplomatic relationship and reputation among staff and students,” and “improve communication with, and develop and strengthen bonds with community partners.”

Financial allegations Riedel’s complaint to the state board included a short string of emails between himself and Knight during mid-December of 2022. Riedel states in one of the emails that two of the college trustees had expressed “discomfort with NICC contracting for consulting services with Wendy Knight or her company, Focus Forward,” citing a possible conflict of interest. Knight served as NICC’s vice president of institutional effectiveness and advancement until July 10, 2023, according to information from the college. Financial reports included in Riedel’s complaint to the state ethics board showed the college paid Knight more than $30,000 in addition to her salary of almost $124,000 between July of 2021 and June of 2022.

Riedel recommended in a Dec. 18, 2022, email that NICC fulfill any existing contracts with Knight’s business but approve no new contracts. A response from Knight included in Riedels’ complaint indicates she agreed to severing the business relationship, and she estimated the business’ existing projects with the college would be complete by June of 2023. Knight’s email also claimed she and Riedel had “agreed it is not a (conflict of interest), but the perception is the concern of looking as (if) the college is paying me.”

Knight went on to explain there had been an error with certain

also play cello on two pieces. A freewill offering will be taken, with a portion of the proceeds being donated to local nonprofit organizations.

Upon entering the church, audience members are encouraged to use their smart phones to scan a displayed QR code to access program details, which will also be projected on video screens. A limited number of printed programs will be available.

Northern Lights would like to thank The Depot Outlet for

a major grant to support its 2024-25 season, as well as the many businesses and individuals which contributed to its fall fund drive.

During the upcoming holiday season, Northern Lights will also perform during Decorah’s Holiday Lights Walk-through Night at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27 at Pulpit Rock Campground, and during Vesterheim Christmas at noon on Saturday, Dec. 7.

tax documents which had since been corrected — she indicated the documents listed her personally, rather than her business Focus Forward.

“We should also consider the perception that I’m not going to stop growing my business, and everybody knows I’m connected to NICC,” Knight said in her email. “So the perception may not go away.”

Knight resigned her position as NICC’s vice president of institutional effectiveness and advancement on July 10, 2023.

Riedel alleges Knight used her college email account to promote her personal business before leaving, and he claims Knight entered into a $60,000 agreement that same month with the Northeast Iowa Community College Foundation regarding “a major gifts campaign in which she had personally participated and indeed headed up.” Vendor information included in Riedel’s complaint shows the college paid almost $62,000 to Focus Forward between July of 2022 and June of 2023, and more than $130,000 was paid to Knight herself during that same period.

the authority of Mr. Anderson” and “felt he had no choice.”

The NICC board held three closed sessions during its Oct. 9 meeting that year, according to published meeting minutes.

All three were listed as personnel matters — descriptions indicated one was related to the college’s executive director of human resources, another to an unspecified employee complaint and the third had to do with the college president. The board took no action on the first two instances, according to the minutes, but they voted to place Riedel on paid administrative leave.

Knight was elected to the board the next month, and Anderson was reelected. Riedel filed an initial complaint with the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board the following week, and the NICC board approved a notice of Riedel’s termination before the end of the month. Attorneys for NICC said in a response to Riedel’s more recent district court appeal that there is no basis under Iowa Code for the college to reverse Riedel’s termination.

An employee review The nine-seat NICC Board of Trustees reviewed Riedel’s performance as president near the end of that financial report’s span. Minutes from the June 19, 2023, board meeting showed the board decided to “leave the president’s salary and contract dates as is and revisit in six months.” Riedel said in a court petition filed approximately six months later that he believes the board discussed a “performance action plan” during a closed period of the meeting and enacted the plan without voting on the matter in open session — which he argues was a violation of Iowa Law. The second complaint accepted by the state ethics board alleges that Anderson asked Riedel as well as the NICC board’s secretary to sign nomination papers for Anderson’s reelection. The signatures were dated for July 12, 2023 — less than a month after the board reviewed Riedel’s performance — and the petition claims Riedel “felt enormous pressure to sign this document, since he was under

Investigation approved State officials met on Halloween to discuss the complaints filed against Knight and Anderson. Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board Chair James Albert described the allegations in the complaint against Anderson as relatively straight forward, and the board unanimously approved the complaint for investigation without any further discussion before taking up the complaint against Knight.

“I’m baffled by how they got away with hiring her to do this,” board member Leah Rodenberg said, later noting the total paid to Knight and her company without a public call for bids was well beyond the $2,000 threshold allowed under Iowa Law. “I’ll be interested in the investigation.”

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continued from front

The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be accepting applications for appointments to several boards and commissions including the county’s pioneer cemetery commission, board of health, historic preservation commission, conservation board, Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission, compensation commission for eminent domain and others as needed. Interested citizens should complete an application, which is available at winneshiekcounty. iowa.gov or at the Winneshiek County Auditor’s Office. Applications are due to the county auditor’s office by Dec. 6.

ArtHaus makes open call for community showcase

Individuals interested in submitting a piece for the Community Showcase at ArtHaus may do so by bringing their work and $10 per piece to ArtHaus during business hours. The theme this year is Black and White, but organizers said the theme is just a suggestion and any piece creative community members have been working on this year may be displayed. The public is also invited to view the Northeast Iowa High School Showcase in the Doyle G. Heyveld Gallery during the month of November.

Elliott to present during Lions Club meeting

The Decorah Lions Club will meet at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26 at the All Vets Club on State Street in Decorah. Chad Elliott, the nutrition director and culinary specialist for the Decorah Community School District, will present the program. Elliott has more than 12 years of service and has worked to make school meals an essential part of the community’s wellness and nutrition. He has also taken steps to ensure students have access to fresh and healthy meals each day. For more information and membership application, contact Lion Brad Schwartz by email at beschwartz@salamander.com,or text 563-419-4020.

Santa and Mrs. Claus coming to Santa’s Land in Ossian

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at Santa’s Land from 8:3011 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Luana Savings Bank in Ossian. The event is sponsored by the city of Ossian, the Ossian Crown Club and Luana Savings Bank. There will also be an op-

portunity to bring donations for the Greater Area Food Pantry in Calmar. A non-perishable food items and monetary donations are appreciated. Visitors are invited to bring along their wishlists for Santa and Mrs. Claus or drop them off in Santa’s Mailbox in front of the Ossian Community Center. Santa will write back if the lists include a return address.

Ossian preparing for Magic of Christmas event

A Magic of Christmas celebration will be held Dec. 6-8 at the Silver Springs Country Club in Ossian. An opening gala featuring an hors d’ oeuvres buffet and wine tasting is scheduled from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6 with entertainment by Ethan Kipp and Deb Scheidel from 7-7:30 p.m. that day. Soup, salad and dessert will be served during a luncheon from 11 a.m to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, and visitors will be served coffee and rolls among the festively decorated trees from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 8 in the clubhouse. Several home tours will be available during the celebration, including the homes of Alvin and Wendy (Mihm) Herold in Calmar; Ed and Mary Eileen (Lofte) Rickleman in Decorah; Karl Schroeder’s historic century-plus home in Ossian; and the Washington Prairie Lutheran Church in Decorah.

Public invited to partake in Peppermint Walk

The Decorah Area Chamber will host a Peppermint Walk event Nov. 22-24 in Decorah.

Chamber organizers said the free, walkable event will be a reminder for the community to shop small and shop local this holiday season. Shoppers are encouraged to participate in the event by using an official Peppermint Walk card, available at any of the 32 locations participating this year. Shoppers who make purchases at three locations may turn in their card for a chance to win a Peppermint Basket and $50 in Chamber Dollars. To learn more about the Peppermint Walk and see a full list of Peppermint Walk locations, visit the Chamber’s website at www.decorahareachamber.com.

Nisse Preschool to host Holiday Pancake Breakfast

Nisse Preschool will host its annual Holiday Pancake Breakfast Sunday, Dec. 8. The freewill donation breakfast will be served from 8:30-11:30 a.m. in the Danan Lansing Building at the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds in Decorah. The fundraising event includes a Santa visit, balloon animals and raffles.

Ribbon Cutting

Celebration!

Congratulations, Oneota Community Food Coop CELEBRATING

50 YEARS

507 W. Water St., Decorah 563.382.3990 | decorahareachamber.com

Congratulations to Oneota Community Food Co-op on 50 years of business! Pictured is the co-op crew along with Chamber Ambassadors Marcia Madrigal, Amanda McIntosh, Maureen Duncklee, Tara McConnell, Laura Gronna, Tade Kerndt, Joe Hammel, Lashelle Evans, Holly Allen, Dallas Steffen, Chris Hicks, Nick Wilz and Ray Rinkol.

COMMUNITY

12 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

TV FFA Alumni hosting membership drive

The Turkey Valley FFA Alumni and supporters are currently hosting a membership drive. Organizers said past membership donations have helped the Turkey Valley FFA chapter flourish and become stronger. Funds raised have been used to help cover the cost of activities such as leadership workshops, state and national convention and agriculture education opportunities. Mem-

berships are available in several degrees — from less than $100 to $500 — and all memberships will be recognized at the annual FFA Banquet and Post Harvest Breakfast.

Donations can be dropped off or mailed to: Turkey Valley FFA Alumni and Supporters, c/o Steve Pfaffle/Nancy E. Franzen, 3219 State Highway 24, Jackson Junction, IA 52171.

There are also many volun-

teer opportunities within the FFA alumni. Volunteer help is needed during fruit distribution at the beginning of December, as well as to give feedback to FFA Members practicing for their LDE competitions. Those willing to volunteer may contact Pfaffle by emailing spfaffle@turkey-v.k12.ia.us or by calling the school at 563-7766011.

Law Enforcement Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office

Lillian Faye Eggert, age 23, of Ossian was charged with domestic abuse/assault — first offense — at approximately 5:14 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13 in the area of Lydia Street in Ossian. A criminal complaint said Eggert and the victim had been in an argument, but both denied any physical altercation had taken place. A sheriff’s deputy observed a fresh abrasion on the victim’s neck, and Eggert “stated it must have come from when she tried to grab the victim by the hair during the argument,” the complaint said. Eggert was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 6:35 p.m. the same day.

Wesley Johnson, age 47, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 1:50 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13 on the charge of domestic abuse/assault.

A Decorah teen was cited with failure to maintain control and violation of his special minor’s restricted license on Saturday, Nov. 9. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said teenager was driving a 2005 Buick Rainier around 1:30 p.m. along Quarry Hill Road and lost control, entering the west ditch and down an embankment. The teen was uninjured, according to the report, and damage to the Buick was estimated at $7,000.

Carlos Hernandez Figueroa, age 24, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 1 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15 on the charge of operating while intoxicated.

A Decorah woman was cited for failure to maintain control following a Nov. 14 collision south of Decorah. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 49-year-old Jessica Mae Von Arx of West Union was driving a 2015 Jeep Cherokee south along Highway 52 that afternoon and slowed as another vehicle prepared to turn off the highway. A 2008 Chevrolet Impala driven by 21-year-old Karleigh Awana Fairchild of Decorah struck the Jeep in the rear, causing what the report called minor cosmetic damage. No injuries were reported.

Brady Togerson, age 22, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 10:55 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15 to serve two consecutive days.

Decorah Police Department

Jamarr Antonio Eddy, age 32, of Decorah was charged with assault — insulting or offensive contact — and assault causing bodily injury at approximately 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3 in the 1 block of Ohio Street in Decorah. Criminal complaints in the case said the victim “heard an altercation in another room” and came to investigate. The complaint went on to say Eddy tackled the victim’s roommate and “then proceeded to grab the victim around the waist, pulling her into his lap on the couch.” Eddy was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 11:15 p.m. the same day.

Lauren Ashley Poye, age 41, of Decorah was charged with trespass — first offense — at approximately 11:18 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7 in the 100 block of West Water Street in Decorah. A statement from the Decorah Police Department said an officer was responding to an ongoing harassment issues between residents of an apartment complex,

and 55-year-old Bradley Eddy of Decorah was issued a summons to appear for third-degree harassment.

A criminal complaint said, before the officer had finished responding to the initial call, Poye entered a neighboring apartment uninvited and yelled an obscene phrase at the tenants. Poye was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 11:40 p.m. the same day.

Matthew Paul Henning, age 49, of Decorah was charged with stalking and seven counts of violating a no contact order at approximately 11:40 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Fairfield Inn and Suites in Decorah. Information from the Decorah Police Department said Henning was already out on bond for 13 counts of violating a no-contact order. More recent court filings said Henning has continued to come to the home of the protected party, as well as call or text the individual’s cell phone. Henning was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 1:50 a.m. Friday, Nov. 8.

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

Photo submitted

DHS students explore career opportunities in manufacturing facilities The entire ninth-grade class at Decorah High School explored four manufacturing facilities in Winneshiek County on Tuesday, Oct. 22. The students visited Stanley, Calmar Manufacturing, Gemini and Deco Products.

The field trip was made possible through a partnership among Decorah High School, Winneshiek County Development and Tourism, Northeast

Iowa Community College and local businesses. During the tour, students experienced the full production process at each facility. At Deco Products, for example, they discovered that the plant processes 30 tons of zinc each week. They observed the entire workflow, from melting the zinc to molding, painting and preparing products for shipping, as well as the office operations. Students engaged

with team members at various levels, gaining valuable insights into the daily operations of the manufacturing sector.

“Exposing students to the many career options available in these factories can motivate them to learn more about them and make a more informed decision about the career they plan to pursue,” said school counselor Pat Trewin.

Jones trial were lost, but a dog named Molly had been trapped in a stairwell and died from extensive smoke inhalation after she was removed from the building.

Dillavou was contacted early the morning after the blaze began — Valentine’s Day that year — to investigate alongside a number of other state and federal entities. Dillavou learned he would be working alongside members of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Water from the firehoses the previous day had frozen in the single-digit temperatures, making it difficult for investigators to throughly examine the damage. Photos were taken, sketches were made, and

the scene was secured behind portable fencing until the ice melted, and it was deemed safe for investigators to enter nearly two months later on April 6, 2022. Dillavou said fuel or other accelerants could have evaporated during those weeks if they weren’t washed away by the fire hoses the day of the fire. None were found after investigators were able to access the site either, and fingerprints were found on an empty diesel fuel can found at the scene.

But they continued to look for clues as to how the fire had originated.

“Fire is indiscriminate — it will destroy everything, but it leaves a story behind,” Dil-

lavou said. “There are things left over, artifacts that burned — what contributed and what did not. Fire burns hotter in certain areas than others. It leaves us a trail of evidence, and we can determine what was in that area and what happened in that area.”

Dillavou, who specializes in investigating house fires and explosives, examined the building’s fuse box, and a third-party laboratory ruled out an overloaded power strip witnesses had recalled behind the sale counter — the same area Lewey testified he initially saw the fire.

“Power cables showed damage from the fire — they were melted, components were melt-

ed, but all had survived — they were badly damaged but not completely destroyed,” Dillavou said. “If that is where the fire came from, we would have expected those to have been completely consumed.”

A plume-like burn pattern near a floor grate led Dillavou to examine the building’s furnace.

The exterior of the furnace had been damaged by the ceiling as it collapsed during the fire, but it showed no visible signs of fire damage, according to evidence in the case. Dillavou unscrewed a panel covering the furnace coils and discovered a 5-10-inch piece of fabric on the coils — the cloth material was consistent with a shirt Jones carried at her store, according to investigators.

“It hadn’t gotten there by ac-

continued from page 6

cident, because if it had fallen down the heat or cold air vents,” he said. “The material would have had to miraculously make a turn upwards and have been sucked into the coils and somehow manage to land perfectly between the coils and the panel, which was screwed into place.”

He testified that the cloth did not cause the blaze which destroyed the store — he said any potential fire locations would have put itself out quickly — but Dillavou said it was his belief someone likely believed it would start a fire.

“Based on examination and evidence, this fire was incendiary in nature,” Dillavou said.

“Two areas in origin — behind the counter, one in the cold air return — two separate fires.

Suspicious circumstance.”

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PUBLIC NOTICES

13 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

Public Notices

Decorah Community School Board Annual & Organizational School Board Meeting Minutes Central Administration Office Monday, November 11, 2024 6:30p.m.

Annual School Board Meeting 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 called to order the annual meeting of the retiring school board at 6:30 p.m. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to approve October 14 & November 1, 2024, minutes. Motion carried by all voting aye. There was no old business of the retiring board.

Motion: Director Zander moved, seconded

by Director Sand to approve the district’s 2023-2024 treasurer’s report.

Motion carried by all voting aye.

The annual meeting of the retiring school board adjourned at 6:32 p.m.

Organizational School Board Meeting 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 called to order the organizational school board meeting at 6:32 p.m.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded

by Director Petersburg to nominate Cindy Goodner as Board President.

Motion: Director Zander moved, seconded

by Director Fadness to cease nominations.

Motion carried by all voting aye ceasing nominations and appointing Cindy Goodner as President.

Motion: Director Sand moved, seconded

by Director Petersburg to nominate Ron Fadness as Board Vice-President. Director Sand moved, seconded by Director Zander to cease nominations. Motion carried by all voting aye ceasing nominations and appointing Ron Fadness as Vice-President. The Oath of Office was administered to President Goodner and Vice-President Fadness by Board Secretary Woodhouse.

Director Petersburg read the mission statement.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded

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

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Sand to approve the consent items: bills and personnel as listed below. Motion carried by four votes. Director Petersburg abstained.

New Hires: a. Amanda Webb (High School Assistant Girls Basketball Coach) Level C, Step 2 b. Justin Redenius (Middle School Associate) Step 3 c. Gunnar Rollins (8 Grade Boys Basketball Coach) Level E, Step 5 d. Johanna Bergan (Large Group Speech Coach) Level D, Step 1 Resignations: a. Maria Leitz (High School Associate) b. Emilee Burcham-Schofield (High School Assistant Girls Basketball Coach) c. Biran Petersburg (School Board Member) Volunteer Coaches: a. Matt Simon (Volunteer Assistant Girls Wrestling Coach) b. Bob Holkesvik (Volunteer Assistant Girls Wrestling Coach) c. Bruce Sacquitne (Volunteer Assistant Girls Wrestling Coach).

There was no communication from the public.

Presentation: Shanna Putnam-Dibble presented on family and community engagement, including the Family Engagement STEAM night on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. It was stated it takes a village to raise a Viking. Research shows that family and community engagement promote academic achievement, positive behavior, attendance, motivation and engagement, communication enhancement, social and emotional development, and school safety. The Family, Educator, and Community Organization (FEC) is a collaborative group which supports students and raises $35,000 to $45,000 annually.

These funds help fill student and classroom needs.

New Business: Director Petersburg’s resignation from the schoo] board was approved in Personnel earlier in the meeting. Board President Goodner stated the role of a board member is much more than attending meetings. President Goodner thanked Director Petersburg for his seventeen years on the board, being a positive leader in the community, expansive knowledge, and his appreciation for the seriousness of the role of a board member. Superintendent Dr. Cronin appreciated Director Petersburg’s role in maintaining board stability and Director Fadness thanked Director Petersburg for his thoughtfulness and commitment for doing what is best for the kids. Director Petersburg thanked the amazing board members, great students, parents, and community. Director Petersburg stated with his retirement from his profession, the board and district would be better serviced with someone who is in the district full time. Superintendent Dr. Cronin provided options for the board with the process of filling the board vacancy. The board can appoint a board member or receive letters of interest. The board stated the importance of a new board member being able to attend the Iowa Association of School Boards on November 20-22, 2024. Due to the timing, the board chose to appoint a board member based on criteria including who has run for board member and the results from the election in November 2023, participation in Vote Yes election, and has been on district committees. The board set Monday, November 18, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) for a special board meeting.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to set the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. October — February, and 5:30 p.m. March — September as the date and time for school board meetings. The board meetings will take place at the Central Administration Office, 1732 Old Stage Road. Motion carried by all voting aye.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded

by Director Sand to appoint Director Zander as the 2024-2025 shareholder board representative. Motion carried by all voting aye.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded

by Director Petersburg to appoint President Goodner as the 2024-2025 county conference board representative. Motion carried by all voting aye.

Motion: Director Sand moved, seconded

by Director Petersburg to appoint Directors Fadness and Zander to the 2024- 2025 negotiating team. Motion carried by all voting aye.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded

by Director Sand to approve the 2024-2025 CTE Advisory Committee as presented. Motion carried by all voting aye.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded

by Director Petersburg to appoint Director Sand as the 2024-2025 CTE advisory committee board representative. Motion carried by all voting aye. The State of Iowa didn’t have the website ready for SBRC requests currently. The board tabled the two SBRC requests atthis time. The board received the annual 2023-2024 Progress Report.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Sand to approve four early graduation requests pending meeting all the necessary graduation requirements. Motion carried by all voting aye. Superintendent Dr. Tim Cronin updated the board on the certified enrollment. Certified enrollment dropped from 1,508.63 to 1,450.43. Resident public students attending decreased from 1,465.10 to 1,398.20. For funding purposes, total school age students provided services by the district decreased from 1,598.13 to 1,525.63.

The budget next will be impacted with the enrollment numbers. Superintendent Dr. Cronin stated the district lost some students to Mabel-Canton, Home School student count down with Montessori”s accreditation, and the district had more students open enroll out and fewer students open enroll in than previously, and fewer students living in the district’s attendance area. The board acknowledged the change in funding to public schools and the real-estate climate provide challenges for the district.

Superintendent Dr. Cronin updated the board on the design phase of the new elementary facility following the passage of the bond vote. The board thanked the Vote Yes Committee. Superintendent Dr. Cronin recognized Decorah High School for receiving the National Blue-Ribbon award which highlights the strength of the entire district. Superintendent Dr. Cronin acknowl-

edged Dr. Snow’s final decision that Decorah will not be placed in the Upper Iowa Conference and the district will be Independent in the 2025-2026 school year. The district will use this opportunity to have internal and external conversations for options for an athletic conference in the 2026-2027 school year. The board stated that every district which desires a conference is guaranteed a conference and this did not happen for the Decorah district.

Open Enrollments: Michael Bean, Grade 12, from Decorah to Oelwein CSD Online Aaron Busta, Grade 12 from Decorah to CAM CSD Katie Pfister, Grade 3 from North Fayette Valley to Decorah CSD Kaesen Manhart, Grade 11, from Decorah to Clayton Ridge-lowa Virtual Academy Calyn Kennedy, Grade Kindergarten, from Decorah to Howard-Winneshiek CSD Caisyn Kennedy, Grade Kindergarten, from Decorah to Howard-Winneshiek CSD Braelynn Kennedy, Grade 6, from Decorah to Howard-Winneshiek CSD Blake Kennedy, Grade 11, from Decorah to Howard-Winneshiek CSD Director of Business Services, Cathy Dietzenbach, presented the monthly financial reports for October 2024, with additional ELL and transportation comparison reports.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:43 p.m.

Darlene Woodhouse, Board Secretary Claims for October 2024 – Activity Fund Albers, Cindy, MS Volleyball Official.................... 525.00 Allamakee CSD, Cross Country Invite Fee..................85.00 Berland, Larry, MS Football Official.......................270.00 Berland, Paul, MS Football Official.. 270.00 Billiet, Pat, MS Volleyball Official.... 300.00 Bohr, Tami, VB Senior Posters.......... 112.00 Brodbeck, Denne, MS Football Official.........................70.00 Burras, Lori, MS Volleyball Official...75.00 Byerly, Brad, HS Football Official....140.00 Cedar Falls HS, HS Swimming Invite Fee............... 125.00 Charles City CSD, MS Invitation Fee/Pass.....................82.50 Christen, Elliot, MS Football Worker.......................175.00 Country Garden, HS Swim/VB Senior Night............227.00 Decker Sporting Goods, HS Track & FB............................1,217.70 Decorah General Fund(BMO), AF CCard................................... 11,367.97 Decorah Rental, HS Horticulture Supplies.................85.00 Delaney, Jesse, HS Football Official.140.00 DeMoulin, Color Guard Flags...........536.46 Derlein Scale, Inc., Testing Wrestling Scale.................. 180.00 Gaard, Rich, MS Football Worker.....150.00 Gallery of Tops, HS FB Cheer T-Shirts/MS.............. 326.40 Grimm, Grayden, HS Football Official.......................140.00 Grimm, Vaughn, HS Football Official....................... 140.00 Hendrickson, Loren, MS Football Worker.........................75.00 Heritage Art, HS Bulletin’s................. 79.92 Iowa Cheerleading Association, Registration.................................... 200.00 Iowa City Area Sports Comm., Wrestling.....................................1,000.00 Iowa Sports Supply, MS Jerseys VB/XC........................ 186.18 Jostens, HS Yearbook Balance....... 7,735.31 Kennedy High School, Swim Invite Fee.............................125.00 Krauskopf, Kurt, MS Football Official.......................180.00 Letterwerks, HS Wrestling Supplies.262.50 Lyons, Dennis, HS Football Official.140.00 Mabe’s Pizza, Homecoming/Press/FFA Mtg.........440.39 O’Neill, Tyler, HS Football Official.. 140.00 Osage CSD, MS Cross Country Invite Fee...........45.00 Perfect Edge, HS Supplies................150.25 Peterson, Amy, HS Volleyball Official....................125.00 Prochaska, Jim, HS Football Official....................... 140.00 Schemmel, Matthew, HS Football Official....................... 140.00 Thompson, Terry, HS Football Official....................... 140.00 Tyler, Ryan, HS/MS Football Official................630.00 South Winneshiek CSD, HS XC Invite Fee...........................200.00 Weiand, Pete, MS Football Official...180.00 Western Dubuque Athletics, HS XC En.Fee................................170.00 Western Dubuque HS, Volleyball Tourn. Fee.......................90.00 Wilharm, Dale, MS Volleyball Official...................... 75.00 Zehr, Jeremy, HS Football Official.... 140.00 Claims for October 2024-Food Service Fund Ace Hardware, Supplies...................... 53.94 Anderson Erickson, Dairy.............. 9,214.43 Busta, Hon, Refunding Lunch Account...............55.95 Casper Plumbing & Heating, Repairs............................................190.00 Country View Dairy, Dairy Products................................931.00 Decorah Activity Fund, Horticulture.512.25 Decorah Gen. Fund-BMO, Purchases-FS..................................804.45 EMS Detergent, Supplies.................. 728.50 Farmers Union Cooperative, LP Tank Refill................................. 163.32 Iowa Food Hub, Food..................... 8,217.62 Joe’s Restaurant Equipment, Repairs.. 85.00 Kingsley Mercantile, Inc., Repairs.1,555.75 Kwik Trip, Ala Carte...........................73.80 Larson, Michelle, Refunding Lunch Acct.......................5.55 Martin Brothers, Food/Produce/Supplies..............40,638.06 Pan-O-Gold, Baking Products........ 1,099.91 Snyder, Jody, Refunding Lunch Account............... 33.40 Streed, Jason, Refunding Lunch Account............... 10.90 Wilson Restaurant Supply, Repairs......................................... 8,930.85 Wood, Carla, Refunding Lunch Account............... 17.05 Total Food Service Claims........ $ 73,321.73 Claims for November 2024–General Fund Prepaids: Acentek, Internet...............................540.00 AlliantEnergy, Electricity.............21,494.07 Auto & Toy Trader, 2024 Dump Trailer...................... 5,850.00 Century Link (Lumen), Telephones-dist.............................. 610.13 Decorah CSD General Fund (BMO) CC........................19,756.67 Total General Fund Prepaid Claims $48,250.87 General Fund Payables: Academy Trophies & Awards, Engraving......................................... 16.05 Acentek, Internet...............................540.00 Ace Hardware, Supplies-district........387.49 Acentek, Internet Monthly Charge....540.00 ACME Tools, HS Equipment.........2,475.00 Ahlers Cooney, Legal Services...... 4,915.18 Alliant Energy, Electricity..............9,898.75 Apple Inc., Replacement Parts-district.............. 716.95 Arnold Motor Supply, Bus Parts/Repairs...........................294.74 Bodensteiner Implement, HS Repairs......................................962.24 Capital Sanitary Supply, Cleaning Supplies...........................223.30 Casper Plumbing & Heating, MS Maint........................................518.44 CDW Government, Supplies-district..............................957.08 Clinicare Corporation, Tuition... 114,569.98 Copyland, MS Mock Trial................... 32.00 Culligan Water Conditioning, Cooler Rental.................................... 21.00 D & N Fence Company, HS Repairs.................................18,254.00 Dean’s Repair, Bus Garage Cont. Service..............752.50 Decorah Activity Fund, RevTrak Year/PSAT....................... 310.00 Decorah Chiropractic, Bus Driver Physicals......................300.00 Decorah Electric, Repairs HS Bus Gar/CL.............. 4,339.24 Decorah Food Service, District Supplies.............................527.43 Decorah Music Booster, RevTrak Payment........................1,050.00 Decorah Rental, HS Equipment Rental.....................120.54 Demme Learning, Workbooks-HSAP.......................... 100.00 DHS Cashier 1st Floor, Medicaid Direct ........................17,048.66 Dickinson Bradshaw, Fowler, Hagen, Legal..................1,007.00

Donovan Group, Purchased Service-district........... 2,500.00 Don’s Sales & Service, Labor/Repairs.................................416.25 Dragonfly Books, HSAP/HS Books............................ 420.70 East Side Body, Bus Repairs.............279.00 EdClub, MS Typing Club Student License..................... 143.75 Fareway, WS/HS Supplies................ 134.09 Farmers Win Coop, Diesel.............1,000.97 Fisk Farm & Home, Supplies..............46.92 Five Start Tele., Safety Grant Cameras..............163,909.91 Follett Content Solutions, MS Books.......................................415.38 Gerk, Katelyn, Reimbursement for Fuel...................36.52 Gopher, HS Supplies.........................256.19 Green, Emily, HS Community Job......25.50 Hackman, Lee Allen, Reimbursement Bus.........................25.88 Hrdlicka, Donnie, HS Community Job..........................26.00 Image Learning, MS Curriculum... 1,100.00 Imperial Dade, Cleaning Supplies-district...........2,557.95 Iowa Communications Network, Teleph..........................................1,882.50 Iowa Future Problem Solving Program, HS................................................... 450.00 ISEA, HS Booklets............................240.00 ISFIS, Inc., Subscription/Conference.............. 2095.00 JW Pepper, MS/HS Supplies............... 91.58 Keystone AEA, Reg. Fee/Edgenuity Lic.............12,000.00 Kinderhaus, 4 Year Old Preschool Prog..........2,808.40 Krug, Weston, MS Solo Adjudicator... 75.00 Kwik Trip, Fuel............................14,138.27 Lakemary Center, Inc., Tuition.......8,558.00 Letterwerks Sign City, Decals Bus Garage.........................185.40 Lippe, John, HS Community Job........12.00 Lovstuen, Allysen, Reimbursement for Fuel...................12.00 Luther College, CL/JC Charlotte’s Web ...............1,210.00 Mabe’s Pizza, District Meeting...........74.93 Malcom Enterprises, Garbage Service.............................855.00 Mann, Carly, HS Community Job.......38.00 Marcia Brenner Associates, Subscription...............................10,049.32 Marco, Copier Expenses/Repairs...3,484.06 McDonald Supply Company, Supply-dist..................................1,955.33 Mercy One Occupational Health, Drug Test........................................506.00 Midwest Group Benefits, Admin Fee (3).................................144.00 Miller, Nathan, MS Solo Adjudicator.. 75.00 Mississippi Welders Company, Repairs............................................517.90 Napa Auto Parts, Misc. Vehicle Repairs..................1,922.17 Nisse Childcare/Pre., 4 Year Preschool..........................7,622.80 North Central International, Bus Repairs.................................5,863.90 Northeast IA Bandmasters Ass., HS Member......................................20.00 Northeast IA Montessori, 4 Year Preschool..........................2,407.20 Novak, Perry Electric, JC Repairs..... 729.94 Pinter Landscaping & Tree, CL Pumpkins..................................480.00 Pitney Bowes, Postage......................248.13 Pleggenkuhle, Wyatt, HS Community Job..........................20.25 Ramstad, Braden, HS Community Job..........................32.00 Reliable Dumpster Services, Dumpster Rent................................927.76 RevTrak, November Transaction Fees........1,929.10 Rockweiler Appliance HS Repair/Parts...........................1,838.80 St. Benedict School, 4 Year Preschool .........................8,024.00 Stinson, Hailey, HS Community Job...13.75 Sunflower Childcare Center, 4 Year Pre....................................8,024.00 TCI, K-5 Social Studies License.........88.00 TeachTown, MS Level 3 Software.3,750.00 Thompson, Jordan, Reimbursement for Fuel................... 25.61 Timberline Billing Service, Medicaid .....................................1,760.70 Truck Country, Vehicle Repairs/Maint.................2,338.18 Verizon Connect, Bus Garage Supplies......................962.66 West Music, HS/MS Supplies........1,239.16 Total GENERAL Fund Claims $465,358.38 Management Fund Payables: Assured Partners, Auto/Bus Insurance.....................1,649.00 Total Management Fund Payables: $1,649.00 PPEL Fund Payables: Dahl Automotive, 2024 Ford 12 Pass. Van.............63,642.00 Karl Auto Group, 2025 Chevy Silverado............... 45,687.40 Total PPEL Fund Payables:......$109,329.40 Total Add’t November GENERAL Fund Payable Access Elevator & Lifts Inc., WS Repairs..................................2,101.54 Alliant Energy, CL Electricity........4,956.25 Decorah Mobile Glass, CL/JC Repairs................................ 379.00 Dragonfly Books, HSAP Books........103.90 John Deere Financial, District Repairs................................. 27.25 J.W. Pepper, HS Band Supplies...........70.00 Letterwerks, Vehicle Stickers..............80.55 Ness Pumping Service, HS XC Rental.............................. 1,200.00 Sabin Family Table, Conference Meals........................... 159.80 Tandem Tire, Vehicle Repairs......... 8,115.04 Total Add’t GENERAL Fund Payables $17,193.33 Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024 RIDGEWAY CITY COUNCIL MINUTES November 12, 2024 The Ridgeway City Council met in regular session November 12, 2024, at the Ridgeway Community Center, at 5:45 p.m. with Mayor Schnur calling the meeting to order. Council persons present were: Linderbaum, Novotny, Engelhardt and Schnur. Absent: Hauber.

Engelhardt made a Motion to approve the consent agenda, minutes, and claims, seconded by Schnur. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

A Motion to approve the Wastewater Plant Improvement Project Change Order Number 2 was made by Schnur, seconded by Engelhardt. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

A Motion was made by Engelhardt, seconded by Novotny to approve the fund accounting journal entries. All aye. Nay: none.

Motion carried.

The City event for June 14, 2025 was discussed.

A Motion was made by Schnur, seconded

by Linderbaum to hire Braelyn McCarville to perform at the City event in June, 2025, for the cost of $500.00. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

A Motion was made by Schnur, seconded

by Linderbaum to approve the City of Ridgeway to sign up for Alliant Energy’s LED upgrade program to save on energy costs, for all buildings, to be done in 2025. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

The maintenance man report was given.

The next City Council meeting will be December 10, 2024, at 5:45 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center.

Engelhardt made a Motion to adjourn, seconded by Schnur. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Sharla Berns City Clerk Alliant Energy, Utilities.............$2,077.44 Banyon Data Systems, Tech support annual fee.......... $2,520.00 Black Hills Energy, Utility-shop ....$47.92 Cardmember Services, Shop-postage and parts................ $64.93 Carquest, Shop-pick up oil change.$36.88 Dan Pitz,......................Insurance & phone reimbursement...........................$550.00 Department of Treasury, Quarterly Tax..........................$1,035.52 Engen Express, Shop fuel.............$334.10 Enterprise Media, Publishing.......... $91.45 Fehr Graham, Waste water Improvement Project................. $700.00 Fehr Graham, Wastewater Improvement Project.............. $1,723.50 Iowa Rural Water , Annual dues ..$305.00 Iowa Water Environment Assoc.

Dan- class registration.................$40.00 IPERS, Ipers.............................. $1,272.20 John Deere Financial, Wastewater Project.....................$106.78 John Deere Financial,

Shop - Antifreeze......................... $17.94 Lisa Engen, Com. Center Cancel – Refund........................ $400.00 Mabel Telephone, Shop$108.96, Office$104.88, Hall$35.68........ $249.52 Marvin Schnur, Snow fence help ...$54.00 Mehmert Tiling, Street Maintenance/repairs.. $ 10,031.45 Microbac Laboratories, Lab tests.....................................$188.00 Payroll........................................$5,659.46 Payroll tax..................................$1,440.12 Ridgeway Lumber, ................. Wastewater Improvement Project – parts...... $109.22 Ruppert, Inc., Shop-supplies........... $93.83 Sharla Berns, Reimbursement ..... $100.00 Sharla Berns, Reimburse-Budget workshop registration.................. $50.00 Shimek Sanitation, Garbage...... $2,214.03 Treasurer – State of Iowa, Sales tax..................................... $482.75 Upper Explorerland, Wastewater Improvement Project CDBG.. $1,088.50 Expenditure Accounts Summary to date: General Fund $7,178.35 Community Center $550.00 Cemetery $100.00 Road Use $10,526.33 Water Fund $1,018.77 Sewer Fund $4,997.25 Revenue Accounts Summary to date: General Fund $6,791.19 Community Center $1,390.00 Cemetery Road Use Tax Local Option Sales Tax Water Fund $2,968.77 Sewer Fund $5,859.29 Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024 NOTICE OF INTENT TO GRANT A PERMIT TO WITHDRAW WATER FOR GENERAL COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURAL PURPOSES (DAIRY PRODUCTION PURPOSES) IN WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IOWA Notice is hereby given that pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 455B, there is now on file with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Water Supply Engineering Section, 502 E 9th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50319 the application as described below.

FULL BOHR DAIRY (Iowa DNR Log No. 33,471) requests a permit authorizing withdrawal of water from two existing and one proposed Galena-Decorah- St. Peter formation (Upper Ordovician) wells, each about 290 feet deep, and one existing Maquoketa Dolomite /Devonian Limestone Devonian well, about 130 feet deep, located in the NE¼ of the SE¼ Section 05, T98N, Rl0W, Winneshiek County, Iowa, in the maximum total quantity of 75 million gallons of water per year at a maximum rate of 150 gallons per minute throughout each year for operation of a dairy, on land generally described as above located in Winneshiek County, Iowa.

The Department has determined that this use of water conforms to the relevant criteria (Iowa Code Chapter 455B and Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 567) and recommends the permit be granted. A copy of the summary report for the application is available upon a request to the department at the address listed above. Comments on the report and on this use of water must be received by December 4, 2024, and should be addressed “ATTN.: Michael K. Anderson, P.E.”, and should specify the applicant’s log number.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024 NOTICE OF INTENT TO FILL VACANCY IN THE OFFICE OF THE WINNESHIEK COUNTY TREASURER BY APPOINTMENT To Whom It May Concern: Notice is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, intends to fill the vacancy created by the pending retirement of Winneshiek County Treasurer Brenda Kreitzer, by appointment pursuant to Chapter 69 of the Iowa Code. Notice is given that the electors of Winneshiek County have a right to file a petition requiring that the vacancy be filled by special election. If within 14 days after publication of this Notice or within 14 days after the appointment is made, whichever is later, a petition is filed with the County Auditor requesting a special election to fill the vacancy, the appointment will be deemed temporary, and a special election shall be called as provided in Iowa Code Section 69.14A(2)(b).

The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will meet on January 6, 2025, to appoint a Winneshiek County Treasurer to fill the vacancy in that office. If no petition for special election is filed, the office of Winneshiek County Treasurer will be listed on the ballot for the general election in November 2026.

Those persons interested in being considered for appointment to fill the vacancy must submit a Letter of Interest and Resume to the Winneshiek County Auditor before 4:00 p.m. on December 6, 2024.

By order of the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, Benjamin D. Steines Winneshiek County Auditor Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21 & 28, 2024

NOTICE OF INTENT TO MODIFY A PERMIT AUTHORIZING USE OF WATER FOR MUNICIPAL PURPOSES IN WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IOWA Notice is hereby given that pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 455B, there is now on file with the Iowa Department of Natural Resourcec, Water Supply Engineering Section, 6200 PARK AVE., Suite 200, Des Moines, Iowa 50321 an application as described below.

The Freeport Water & Sanitary District (Iowa DNR Log No. 33,554) requests a permit authorizing withdrawal of water from a Cambrian_Ordovician (Jordan Sandstone) well, approximately 505 feet deep, on land generally decribed as the SE1/4 of the SE1/4 of Section 14, T98N, R8W, Winneshiek County, Iowa, in maximum quantity of 45.0 million gallons per year, at a maximum rate of 270 gallons per minute throughout each year for municipal and industrial uses in the vicinity of the unicorporated village of Freeport, Iowa.

This modification represents the increase in instantaneous pumping capacity, from 220 gallons per minute to 270 gallons per minute.

The Department has determined that this use of water conforms to the relevant criteria (Iowa Code Chapter 455B and Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 567) and recommends the permit be granted. A copy of the summary report for the application is available upon a request to the Department at the address listed above. Comments on the report and on this use of water must received by December 06, 2024, and shoud be addressed “ATTN.: Water Supply Engineering Section” and should specify the applicants log number.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024 PUBLIC NOTICE Pursuant to the requirements of Section 508 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987, as amended, the City of Spillville is hereby providing Public Notice that on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., the City Council will hold a public hearing at the Spillville City Hall (438 South Main Street). The purpose of the hearing will be to provide the public information concerning the progress, scope, budget and status of the City’s Water System Improvements Project.

This project is being funded through a Community Development Block Grant provided by the Iowa Economic Development Authority and DNR/SRF Funding.

If you have questions concerning the project, or if you require special accommodation to attend the hearing such as handicapped accessibility or translation services, you may contact the City Clerk at City Hall. Persons interested in the status of funding, or the progress of the project, are welcome to attend this meeting or submit written comments to City Hall before the Hearing.

Program Contact: City Hall at (563) 3801379 or Program Administrators (Simmering-Cory) at (641) 355-4072.

Julie Shimek, City Clerk Decorah (Iowa) Leader Novenber 21, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF DECORAH BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT Notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the City of Decorah, Iowa, has set 5:15 PM, Wednesday, December 4, 2024, for a regular meeting to be held at the Council Chambers of City Hall, in Decorah, Iowa, 52101, as the time and place for consideration of requested variances from the Ordinance requirements to-wit: Patricia Meyer for 306 Upper Broadway Street, legally described as N 52.2’ LOT 2 BLK 1 UPDEGRAFF’S ADDN in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa requesting permission to replace an accessory building contrary to City Code Section 17.16.030 – Accessory Building.

All interested persons may appear at said time and place to be heard for or against the granting of variances from the Ordinance requirements.

Sue Sander, Chair Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DANIEL J. SCHMITT DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016344 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Daniel J. Schmitt, Deceased, who died on or about October 27, 2024: You are hereby notified that on the 7th day of November, 2024, the undersigned was appointed as Executor of the estate.

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

Dated this 7th day of November, 2024.

Mary Schmitt, Executor 101 Grove St. Fort Atkinson, IA 52144 Miller Law Office, P.L.C. James Burns AT0001264 Attorney for Executor 301 West Broadway, P.O. Box 28 Decorah, Iowa 52101 Telephone: (563) 382-4226 Facsimile: (563) 382-3783 millerlaw@millerlaedecorah.com Date of second publication: November 21, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 14 & 21, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EVELYN C. ELSBERND DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016341 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Evelyn C. Elsbernd, Deceased, who died on or about October 25, 2024: You are hereby notified that on the 4th day of November, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Evelyn C. Elsbernd, deceased, bearing date of February 15, 2020, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Cynthia M. Jestrab and Floyd A. Elsbernd were appointed co-executors of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated this 5th day of November, 2024.

Cynthia M. Jestrab PO Box 123 Protivin, IA 52163 Co-executor of estate Floyd A. Elsbernd 2024 Elm Circle West Des Moines, IA 50265 Co-executor of estate Daniel L. Fretheim ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 dan.fretheim@andersonlawdecorah.com

Date of second publication: November 21, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 14 & 21, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RANDAL R. KUENNEN DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016340 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Randal R. Kuennen, Deceased, who died on or about October 8, 2024: You are hereby notified that on the 5th day of November, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Randal R. Kuennen, deceased, bearing date of October 13, 2009, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Jacquelynn Kuennen was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated this 7th day of November, 2024.

Jacquelynn Kuennen Executor of Estate 2418 Co. Road B32 Fort Atkinson, IA 52144 Dustin H. Noble ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 Email: dustin.noble@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: November 21, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 14 & 21, 2024 NOTICE OF INTENT TO GRANT A PERMIT TO WITHDRAW WATER FOR GENERAL COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURAL PURPOSES (DAIRY PRODUCTION) IN WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IOWA Notice is hereby given that pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 455B, there is now on file with the Iowa Department of Natural Re-

sources, Water Supply Engineering Section, 502 E 9th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50319 the application as described below.

KEVIN MOELLER on behalf of KG4 Dairy {Iowa DNR Log No. 33,470) requests a permit authorizing withdrawal of water from one existing and one proposed Galena-Decorah- St. Peter formation (Upper Ordovician) wells, each about 580 feet deep, and one existing Maquoketa Dolomite /Devonian Limestone well, about 135 feet deep, located in the NE¼ of the SE¼ Section 34, T99N, RlOW, Winneshiek County, Iowa, in the maximum total quantity of 75 million gallons of water per year at a maximum rate of 150 gallons per minute throughout each year for operation of a dairy, on land generally described as above located in Winneshiek County, Iowa.

The Department has determined that this use of water conforms to the relevant criteria (Iowa Code Chapter 455B and Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 567) and recommends the permit be granted. A copy of the summary report for the application is available upon a request to the department at the address listed above. Comments on the report and on this use of water’ must be received by December 4, 2024, and should be addressed “ATTN.: Michael K. Anderson, P.E.”, and should specify the applicant’s log number.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LORNA A. BJERKE, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016342 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Lorna A. Bjerke, Deceased, who died on or about October 18, 2024: You are hereby notified that on November 5, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Lorna A. Bjerke deceased, bearing date of July 31, 2007, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed court and that Janice M. Bjerke was appointed Executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the 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 November 5, 2024.

Janice M. Bjerke, Executor of Estate 705 Jefferson St. Decorah, IA 52101 William J. Shafer, ICIS#: AT007218 Attorney for Executor Shafer & Shafer Law Office, PLLC 23 Allamakee St. Waukon, IA 52172 Date of second publication: November 21, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 14 & 21, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROLLIN KENT ISENBERGER, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016343 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Rollin Kent Isenberger, Deceased, who died on or about September 25, 2024: You are hereby notified that on the 7th day of November, 2024, the undersigned was appointed as Executors 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 of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred.

Dated this 11th day of November, 2024.

Keith Allen Isenberger, Executor 1030 Sage Circle Golden, CO 80401 Miller Law Office, P.L.C. Jon Specht AT0012576 Attorney for Executor 301 West Broadway, P.O. Box 28 Decorah, Iowa 52101 Telephone: (563) 382-4226 Facsimile: (563) 382-3783 jspecht@millerlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: September 21, 2021 Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 14 & 21, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ELAINE MARIE HIPPEN DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016345 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Elaine Marie Hippen, Deceased, who died on or about October 11, 2024: You are hereby notified that on August 19, 2021, the Last Will and Testament Elaine Marie Hippen, deceased, bearing date of March 3, 2010, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed court and that Susan Elizabeth Hippen was appointed Executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the 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 November 14, 2024.

Susan Elizabeth Hippen, Executor of Estate 86 E. 7th St., Apt. 1 New York, NY 10003-8467 Christina I. Thompson, ICIS#: AT0011346 Attorney for Executor Phil Watson, P.C. 535 East Army Post Road Des Moines, IA 50315 Date of second publication: November 28, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21 & 28, 2024 Public Notice from Board of Supervisors The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be accepting applications for appointments to several Boards and Commissions including the following: Pioneer Cemetery Commission, Board of Health, Historic Preservation Commission, Conservation Board, Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission, Compensation Commission for Eminent Domain, and others as needed. Interested citizens should complete an application which is available at winneshiekcounty.iowa.gov or at the County Auditor’s office. Applications are due to the county Auditor’s office by December 6th.

Thanks, Ben Steines Winneshiek County Auditor Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 28 & December 5, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221 E911 Service ...............................121.58 Emergency Management Comm Amazon Capital Services, Supplies.......................................158.47 AT&T Mobility, Cellular Service ....91.27 Capital One, Payment ......................95.63 Chickasaw Ambulance Service, Equipment ................................. 3000.00 Decorah Electric Inc, Services ... 13964.98 Elan Financial Services, Payment 1618.72 Leon’s Auto Repair, Services ...........94.25 Olson Explosives, Fuel ..................189.36 US Cellular, Cell Service ................. 50.31 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service.........14.04 Winneshiek Co Health Ins Fund Midwest Group Benefits, Health Insurance .....................17475.61 Wellmark, Insurance ................ 135175.07 Grand Total .............................. 451486.03 .Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024 Decorah Community School Board Special School Board Meeting Minutes Central Administration Office Monday, November 18, 2024 12:00 p.m.

Present: President Cindy Goodner, Directors: Ron Fadness, Carole Sand, and Director Zander.Superintendent Dr. Tim Cronin, Director of Business Services Cathy Dietzenbach, Staff, News Media, and Guests. President Goodner and Director Sand participated via Zoom.

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

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded

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

Old Business: Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to authorize the district’s administration to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee in the amount of $75,262.68 for modified supplement amount (MSA) for nine open enrolled out students not included in the district’s previous year’s certified enrollment count. Motion carried by all voting aye.

Motion: Director Zander moved, seconded

by Director Sand to authorize the district’s administration to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee in the amount of $8,217.30 for MSA for providing an English Language Learner program for five students who have exceeded five years of weighted funding. Motion carried by all voting aye.

Motion: Director Sand moved, seconded

by Director Fadness to approve the personnel listing listed below. Motion carried by all voting aye.

New Hires: a. Chris Krammen (Carrie Lee/Middle School Associate) Step 1, Lane | b. Jaxon Withers (9’” Grade Girls Basketball Coach) Level D, Step 1 Resignation: a. Fred Eickert (Carrie Lee Associate) Modification: a. Ellice Stammeyer (Part-time Custodian to Full-time Custodian) Director Petersburg resigned as board member effective Tuesday, November 12, 2024. The board followed due process in posting the vacancy in the Decorah Leader on Thursday, November 14, 2024. The board discussed the importance of appointing a new board member with the bond passage, athletic conference discussions, and Iowa Association of School Board Conference this week.

With an appointment, the new board member would serve on the board for eleven months, until November 2025. The board stated criteria for an appointee include running for board member previously and volunteering for district committees. President Goodner stated Mr. Brad Darling fulfills these criteria and would be honored to fill this role.

All directors agreed with this process and appointment. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to appoint Brad Darling as the board member to fill Director Brian Petersburg’s vacancy.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:14 p.m.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024

Decorah (Iowa) Leader November 21, 2024

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

SERVICES HELP WANTED

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT WINNESHIEK COUNTY An appeal to the Zoning Board of Adjustment for a variance of the zoning ordinance as applied to the property described as: Lot 1, Blk 1 of Oneota Estates Subdivision, Section 13, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa.

Said parcel is located at 2559 River Rd, Decorah, IA. The purpose of this appeal is to: 1) .... Reduce the Rear Yard area to 17 feet from the Required 25 feet.

The petitioner is Quarry Street Rentals, LLC. The Public Hearing will be held by the Zoning Board of Adjustment on Tuesday Dec 3rd, 2024 at 7:00 P.M. 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 November 21, 2024

FARM MARKET driftless

McKesson Medical Surgical, Supplies.......................................451.49 MiBroadband, Services..................210.00 Microbac Laboratories, Inc., Services .........................................42.50 Midwest Computer Brokers, Inc., Services .....................................1780.85 Robert Moudry, Reimbursement.... 613.21 Mower Power, Parts .........................32.19 Brian Muth, Services ...................2109.61 Napa Auto Parts, Parts ...................460.12 North Slope Estate’s LLC, Rental.... 84.00 Brady O’Connor, Services ...........1500.00 O’Reilly Automotive, Inc., Parts ...306.87 Lana Oyloe, Services ................... 1175.29 Lonnie Pierce, Reimbursement ........25.00 Pinter Landscaping & Tree Serv, Supplies.....................................4760.84 Olivia Rasmussen, Services ......... 1103.68 Reliable Dumpster Services Inc, Services .......................................300.00 Ricoh USA Inc, Maintenance Agreement ............. 623.44 Riley’s Inc, Supplies ........................70.17 Lacey Rogers, Services ..................400.00 Gregg Rude, Services ..................2500.00 Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services .......................................781.00 Schilling Supply Company, Supplies.......................................366.24 Gordon Snitker, Reimbursement .....25.00 Ben Steines, Reimbursement ...........25.00 Steve’s Car Care, Services ...............59.25 Storey Kenworthy, Supplies ..........623.57 John L. Storkamp, Reimbursement..25.00 Stress Less Tech, Services .............129.99 Thryv, Advertising ........................... 21.00 US Cellular, Cell Service ...............276.70 Krista Vanden Brink, Mileage .......167.50 Vestis, Services ..............................141.90 Windstream, Telephone Service ......51.39 Wright Way Computers, LLC, Services .....................................4896.63 Christopher Wuebker, Reimbursement .............................48.15 General Supplemental Fund Cynthia Albers, Election Worker ...266.25 Mark Albers, Election Worker ....... 112.50 Amazon Capital Services, Supplies . 93.61 Cathryn Baldner, Election Worker .162.34 Leslie Battle, Election Worker .......393.75 Patricia Billiet, Election Worker ....506.25 Gabriella Bizal, Election Worker ...217.50 Gail Bolson-Magnuson, Election Worker ..........................300.00 Ranell Bolson, Election Worker .... 276.97 Timothy Borseth, Election Worker ..........................265.85 Roxann Brown, Election Worker ...288.09 Lynne Bullerman, Reimbursement ..48.91 Lori Burras, Election Worker .........326.25 Calmar Lutheran Church, Election Rent...............................100.00 City of Ossian, Election Rent ........ 100.00 City of Ridgeway, Election Rent ... 100.00 Column Software PBC, Publications................................. 137.29 Decorah Leader, Publications ........ 159.71 Robert Drew, Election Worker .......322.39 Debra Eichenberger, Election Worker ..........................404.74 First Lutheran Church, Election Rent............................... 100.00 Mary Fitch, Election Worker .........153.22 Melanie Folkerts, Election Worker 442.50 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Election Rent............................... 100.00 James Haemker, Election Worker .. 112.50 Susan Haemker, Election Worker .. 112.50 Jennifer Halton, Services ................. 31.50 Lise Hedstrom, Election Worker.... 112.50 Andrea Hemesath, Election Worker ..........................304.30 Carol Hemesath, Election Worker .180.00 Patty Humpal, Election Worker ..... 294.79 ICAP, Insurance .............................650.70 IMWCA, Insurance......................9986.00 Kristen Jakoubek, Election Worker ..........................474.25 Andrew Johnson, Election Worker 147.06 Eileen Kipp, Election Worker ........296.26 Elizabeth Klimesh, Election Worker ..........................295.46 Judith Krauskopf, Election Worker..55.05 Anne Kriener, Election Worker...... 177.34 Lois Kuennen, Election Worker .....630.00 Laura Lechtenberg, Election Worker ..........................445.20 Larry Leliefeld, Election Worker ...150.00 Patricia Lien, Election Worker .......127.50 Charles Lore, Election Worker ......389.20 Elaine Lore, Election Worker ........202.50 Diane Lovstuen, Election Worker ..483.50 Kris Lynch, Election Worker .........247.50 Traci Marcum, Election Worker ....127.50 Jill Marquardt, Election Worker ....225.00 Sharon Mashek, Election Worker ..355.46 Susan McKone-Burks, Election Woker............................502.50 Molly McNicoll, Election Worker . 390.00 Jody Meyer, Election Worker ........268.93 Rochelle Meyer, Election Worker ..286.35 Emily Mineart, Election Worker ....266.25 Joseph Needham, Election Worker 288.09 Patrick O’Regan, Election Worker 307.52 Peter Olafsen, Election Worker......182.83 Dennis Peterson, Election Worker .298.40 Kaija Rice, Election Worker ............60.00 Elaine Saint Claire, Election Worker ..........................487.50 Beverly Sheridan, Election Worker .............................302.29 Nancy Sojka, Election Worker .......120.00 Bonnie Steinberg, Election Worker ..........................262.50 Margaret Storkamp, Election Worker ..........................266.25 Kurt Straube, Election Worker .......277.37 Nathan Thompson, Election Worker ..........................298.40 Jeffrey Tomlinson, Election Worker ..........................142.50 Jane Vande Berg, Election Worker.........................................536.26 Cody Webb, Election Worker ........ 291.31 Paul Wermers, Election Worker .....267.51 Michael Whalen, Election Worker .150.28 Water Testing Grant Fund State Hygienic Laboratory, Services .......................................420.00 Rural Services Basic Fund Teresa Berg, Meeting ....................... 50.00 Loren Broszeit, Meeting .................. 50.00 Everest Property Group, LLC, Site Rent........................................ 80.00 Jeff Feickert, Meeting ...................... 50.00 Tony Phillips, Reimbursement .........25.00 Reliable Dumpster Services Inc, Services .....................................2970.00 Byron Schultz, Meeting ...................50.00 Winn Co Landfill, Fees ................1528.36 Secondary Road Fund AcenTek, Telephone Service.......... 265.62 Alliant Energy, Utilities ...............1013.87 Amazon Capital Services, Supplies.......................................748.44 AT&T Mobility, Cellular Service ..476.97 Becker Hardware, Inc., Supplies ..... 46.97 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service ......................41.86 Bodensteiner Implement Company, Services .....................................1985.01 Carquest Auto Parts, Parts ...........1886.12 Culligan, Services ..........................154.00 Dakota Supply Group, Parts ........ 6262.81 Dan’s Standard Service, Services ..901.32 DeBauche Truck & Diesel, Parts . 1007.11 Fisk Farm & Home Inc., Supplies . 165.55 Folkedahl Service, Services ............. 98.00 Housby Heavy Equipment, Equipment ...................................759.13 Hovden Oil Co, Fuel ....................1223.96 IDALS, Fees .................................... 30.00 Iowa DOT, Payment ....................4231.02 Iowa Prison Industries, Signs........... 40.90 ISU Extension & Outreach, Registration .................................135.00 Jeffrey Kuboushek, Reimbursement 18.36 Mabel Co-op Telephone, E911 Service .................................85.31 Martin Equipment of IA/IL, Inc, Supplies.....................................1960.48 Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Services .......................................234.25 Metal Culverts, Materials ..........61764.30 MiBroadband, Services.................. 212.97 Mitko Specialty Sales, Parts ........ 1640.82 MWSCO, Supplies.........................181.98 Napa Auto Parts, Parts .....................69.99 NE Iowa Metalworks, Inc., Services .......................................277.48 Ness Pumping Service, Inc., Services .......................................345.00 River City Paving, Materials ..... 62731.20 Sadler Power Train, Parts.............1087.89 Safety X-treme, LLC, Supplies......977.20 Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services . 98.00 Star Equipment LTD, Equipment 1202.30 Storey Kenworthy, Supplies ............25.08 Truck Country of Iowa, Services .1294.25 US Cellular, Cell Service ...............352.17 Verizon, Services ......................... 1189.44 Winn Co Landfill, Fees ......................8.36 County Assessor Agency Fund Amazon Capital Services, Supplies . 94.26 Dawn Hageman, Reimbursement .. 612.46 E911 Surcharge Fund AcenTek, E911 Service ................1025.32 Alliant Energy, Utilities .................152.79 American Tower Corporation, Rental ........................................2009.04 Mabel Co-op Telephone,

FARMS FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

WANTED TO BUY

NOW HIRING

SIGNMAN

SECONDARY ROAD DEPARTMENT

CLAS REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

FARMS FOR RENT

Help Wanted

WANTED TO RENT

SERVICES

Apartment for Rent: 1-bedroom, upstairs apartment.

NS/NP. 326 RECREATIONAL WashingtonVEHICLES St. Decorah. 563-4192621. 46-tf-LD-x-9

Will walk your dog between 6:30 and 7:15 am.

Small to mid-size HELP only. $25/hr. Text 315-729-8277 WANTED 44-tf-DL-14

WINNESHIEK COUNTY will be accepting applications for the position of “Signman” for the Secondary Road Department until 4:00 p.m. Friday, December 6, 2024 or until the position is filled at the office of the Winneshiek County Engineer, 201 W. Main, Decorah, IA 52101.

PERSONALS NOW HIRING

Applications and job description are available at the Engineers Office and www.winneshiekcounty.org/jobs.html EOE 47-5-LD-12

FOR SALE Clayton County, Iowa is seeking qualified applicants for the position of full-time Information Technology Help Desk Technician.

Winneshiek County Courthouse, 201 W. Main St., Decorah • 563-382-5085

www.winneshiekcounty.org

The South Winneshiek CSD has the following openings for the 2025-26 school year:

NOW HIRING

Elementary Teacher High School Science Teacher 5-12 Biological Science

High School Principal Administrative Assistant High School Head Varsity Football Coach All positions are full-time with insurance benefits, with the exception of the football coaching position Applicants can apply through Iowa Workforce Development www.lowaWORKS.gov or contact the Elementary Principal: Jason Halverson at jhalverson@swinn.k12.ia.us or High School Principal: Brennan Williams at bwilliams@swinn.k12.ia.us.

Open until filled.

FARM MARKET

Information Technology Help Desk Technician FARMS CLAYTON COUNTY, IOWA

ANNOUNCEMENTS RESPONSIBILITIES

The Information Technology Help Desk Technician is responsible FARMS for assisting the Information Technology Director with the dayFOR systems RENTin the to-day operations of all computer and technology county and will assist in developing a technology roadmap for the future ofAUTOMOTIVE technology systems in the county. The position will work five days per week with the ability to be flexible to meet the needs of the county.

WANTED TO BUY

TO APPLY

Questions pertaining to the position duties and expectations CARDS can be directed to the Information Technology Director, Robert OF by THANKS Kurdelmeyer, emailing krobertmeyer@claytoncountyia.gov.

Qualified applicants can apply by visiting our website at www.

RECREATIONAL claytoncountyia.gov/jobs.

CLUBHOUSE MANAGER

High School English Teacher 5-12 English Language Arts

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Board Minutes November 12 & 13, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am November 12, 2024 with Vick, Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet present in person and Kelsay present electronically. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order.

Tom Madden, SEH Engineering, met with the Board to detail the final steps in completion of the Festina Sewer Project. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Vick to approve the Certificate of Substantial Completion.

Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to approve the Notice of Acceptability of Work. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve Change Order #4 and the contract extension. Motion carried unanimously.

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to review road projects, the No Winter Maintenance Roads Resolution, and the Resolution for FEMA. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to adopt resolution 25-11, permitting the Secondary Roads Department to utilize the County’s UEI# for FEMA claims. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Complete resolution is on file in the County Auditor’s Office. The Board will act on the No Winter Maintenance Roads resolution at a future meeting.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vermace to adopt the proposed resolution to re-establish the Compensation Board. Motion failed with Vermace and Faldet voting aye; and Kelsay, Vick, and Langreck voting nay.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the lease with Everest Property Group for the dumpster location in Bluffton for Rural Waste Collection. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vermace to make an acceptation to policy to retroactively pay Kayla Hageman $300 per week for additional duties performed in the ten week absence of the Recycling Supervisor. Motion carried unanimously.

The Board discussed the process for filling the vacancy in the position of County Treasurer. The consensus of the Board was to proceed with an appointment to fill the vacancy, with letters of interest due by December 6th. The County Attorney will prepare the appropriate paperwork to proceed with this process.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting and the claims filed with the Board. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, November 18, 2024, with a special meeting scheduled at 9:30am on November 13th to canvass the General Election. Motion carried unanimously.

The Board of Supervisors, ex-officio Board of County Canvassers for Winneshiek County, met at 9:30am November 13, 2024 with Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet present; to canvass the results of the General Election held on Tuesday November 5, 2024. Moved

by Faldet and seconded by Vermace to certify the canvass summary and abstracts of votes and declare the following duly elected for the offices listed: Shirley Vermace, Supervisor District 3; Daniel Langreck, Supervisor District 4; Benjamin D. Steines, Auditor; Dan Marx, Sheriff; the following township trustees: Christopher Hackman, Bloomfield; Stephanie Fromm, Bluffton; Dawn Marlow, Burr Oak; Rodney Lensing, Calmar; Daryl Bosma, Canoe; Kevin Barth, Decorah; Jeffrey Feickert and Loren Broszeit, Frankville; Leland Hovey, Fremont; Allan Dahlen, Glenwood; Mike Paulson and Ethan Wise, Hesper; Arden Auna, Highland; Ross Kuresh, Jackson; Rodney Ollendieck and Ted Frana, Lincoln; Roger Bergan, Madison; Thomas Bushman, Military; Ron Stika and Jason Ryan, Orleans; Roger Nelson, Pleasant; Bruce Sersland, Springfield; Paul Andera, Sumner; James Neuzil, Washington; the following township clerks: Sawyer Wise, Highland; Clark Goltz, Jan Heikes, and Karen McLean, Hospital Trustees; Donna Rasmussen, Keith Newhouse, and Jon H. Lubke, Soil & Water Conservation Commissioners; and Lori Shatek, Blake Courtney, Janice Kuboushek, Judy Mowry, and Cassidy Ferguson, Agricultural Extension Council. Motion carried unanimously. Ben Steines, County Auditor, thanked the Precinct Election Officials for a job well done. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Claims 11-12-2024 General Basic Fund A-OK Well Service, LLC, Services .....................................2941.90 AcenTek, Telephone Service.......... 511.72 AireSpring, Telephone Service ...... 416.24 Allamakee Co Solid Waste, Bale Purchase.............................. 511.08 Alliant Energy, Utilities ............... 4738.04 Amazon Capital Services, Supplies.....................................1076.73 Anderson Law Office, Legal Services ........................... 3659.67 Wendy Anderson, Mileage .............213.73 Andy’s Speed Lube, Services ........ 180.00 AT&T Mobility, Cellular Service .. 959.42 Linus Barloon, Services ................. 589.75 BDH Technology LLP, Maintenance Agreement ............. 250.00 Becker Hardware, Inc., Supplies ... 719.00 Thomas Benda, Services .................. 45.00 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service ...................... 24.83 Bob Barker Company, Inc, Supplies.........................................41.58 C&B Material Handling, LLC Equipment ................................. 2888.16 Calmar Courier, Publications ...........55.00 Calmar Motors, Services................ 139.90 Capital One, Payment .................... 329.30 Carquest Auto Parts, Parts ............. 447.70 Cen Tec Cast Metal Products, Markers ....................................... 183.32 CenturyLink, Telephone Service ...753.79 City of Decorah, Utilities ............... 896.13 Column Software PBC, Publications................................. 313.35 County Binders, Inc, Services...... 4270.28 Court View Place LLP, Payment.. 1970.00 Culligan, Services .......................... 769.30 Charles P Cunningham, Reimbursement ........................... 175.00 Roger Dahlen, Reimbursement ........25.00 Decorah Ace Hardware, Supplies ....63.56 Decorah Community Schools, Services .......................................187.70 Decorah Electric Inc, Services ....... 575.32 Decorah Leader, Publications ........ 841.55 Decorah Tire Service, Services ...... 989.60 Dentons Davis Brown PC, Legal Services ............................... 90.00 Dept of Inspections & Appeals Certification .................................. 80.00 Fareway Stores, Supplies ...............841.06 John Fels, Reimbursement ............... 25.00 Fisk Farm & Home Inc., Supplies ..... 6.99 Fixxit, LLC, Services ................... 5879.28 Teresa Gehling, Mileage .................. 34.84 Government Forms & Supplies, Supplies.......................................202.00 GrapeTree Medical Staffing LLC Services .......................................704.00 George L. Grosz, Services .............876.20 Hageman Cleaning, Services ......... 200.00 Kayla Hageman, Reimbursement ....40.00 John Halverson, Reimbursement ..... 25.00 Healthcare First, Services .............. 111.02 Rachel Herold, Mileage ................... 58.29 Sally Herold, Mileage .................... 318.92 Faith Hlubek, Reimbursement ....... 212.96 Howard’s Tire & Repair,Repairs....389.50 Ricky Hughes, Services ............... 1573.60 IA Dept of Public Safety, Services .....................................1031.25 Imaging Summit, Supplies.............269.95 Kari Iverson, Reimbursement ..........36.85 Fatimetu Jatri Emhamed, Reimbursement ............................. 25.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies...... 625.68 Mike Johnson, Camp Host ............... 27.50 Elizabeth Klimesh, Reimbursement ........................... 119.84 Brenda Kreitzer, Reimbursement..... 25.00 Ethel Barbara Krueger, Services ....141.39 Kwik Trip Extended Network, Fuel ........................................... 5496.03 LA Communications, Inc, Advertising ..................................288.00 Steve Lennon, Services .................. 606.60 Chuck Lensing, Services.............. 1800.00 Dr. Kevin Locke, Services ...........1087.15 Logistics Recycling, Inc., Services 264.60 Mail Services, Services ..................779.03 Anna Mark M.D., Services ..............75.00 Martin Bros. Distributing, Supplies.......................................569.09 Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Services .......................................264.04 Nancy Marx, Services ......................50.00 Jamie McConnell, Reimbursement .. 25.00 Hubert McGee, Services ................ 628.40

14

­

-CODE-

Applications will be accepted until positionVEHICLES is filled. An initial review of applications will take place on November 27, 2024.

ENTERTAINMENT

111 High St. NE, Elkader • 563-245-1106 www.claytoncountyia.gov

PERSONALS-CODE-

Clayton County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

the

CONTACT US!

MISCELLANEOUS

www.driftlessjournal.com | news@driftlessjournal.com | 563-382-4221 | Tuesday, July 9, 2024 |

ANNOUNCEMENT

the

AUTOMOTIVE

563-382-4221 LOST AND

editor@decorahleader.com

FOUND 110 Washington Street, Decorah, IA 52101

COMMUNITY

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

15

Holiday traditions returning to Vesterheim

One Team Day supports Luther’s student-athletes Luther will host its fifth annual One Team Day fundraiser on Thursday, Nov. 21. The event was launched in 2020 and supports Luther College’s 22 intercollegiate teams and 500 student-athletes both in the classroom and on the field. In 2023, Luther raised $367,000 from more than 1,100 donors, which was the largest-ever One Team Day so far.

“The athletics department looks forward to this day each year,” said Renae Hartl, director of intercollegiate athletics.

“These 30 hours are full of meaningful connections that leave us feeling an astounding amount of support.”

During One Team Day, student-athletes invite alumni, family members and other Norse athletic supporters to designate their monetary gifts for specific teams at Luther.

Funds raised during One Team Day provide support, such as advanced technologies for

training, conditioning and recovery as well as equipment, uniforms, travel, experiences and recruitment.

“We want our coaches to be able to create competitive schedules and provide cutting-edge training equipment for our student-athletes,” Hartl said. “The outcome on One Team Day ensures that we can do so. Your gifts will make a great impact in our programs.”

Supporters may give online at Luther.edu/one-team-day or by calling 563-387-1862. Contributions on Nov. 21 will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $125,000 by One Team Day sponsors.

The daylong event will conclude with light refreshments and a cash bar from 5:30–7:30 p.m. Nov. 21 at T-Bock’s on Water Street in Decorah. Luther alumni, parents, coaches and fans of Norse athletics are invited to attend.

Holiday

n o i t p i r c s Sub special

The public is invited to kick off the holiday season with a Norwegian Christmas celebration at Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, from 10-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Admission to the museum building will be free for youth under age 18. Free activities will also be held throughout Heritage Park and the Commons Building.

Goats from the Lost Pine Farm in Decorah will be outside in Heritage Park, and visitors may take a picture by the giant wooden nisse. Hot drinks, Scandinavian s’mores and lefse will be served on the commons’ patio, and face painting will be available weather permitting.

Julebukker — costumed folk who roam the museum campus scaring away evil spirits — and young julenisse — or Christmas elves — will be on site. The elves will visit at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. during juletrefest — a Norwegian party during which participants sing around a decorated tree — in the commons building.

There will be four free live music performances in the

Photo submitted museum’s Bethania Church.

Decorah Chorale will sing at 11 a.m., Northern Lights will perform at noon, Luren Singing Society will follow at 1 p.m. and a special Hardanger fiddle concert and demonstration by Eden Ehm and Karen Rebholz will take place at 2 p.m. In addition, the Decorah High School Madrigal Singers will perform at 11:45 a.m. in the ship gallery of the museum building, and A Touch of Brass will perform at

Decorah Elementary Schools Host STEAM event

Decorah Elementary Schools recently hosted a family STEAM event Tuesday, Nov. 12. Nearly 400 participants engaged with hands-on learning as they explored science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Volunteers from Decorah Bank and Trust, Keystone AEA, Raptor Resource Project, Iowa State Extension and Outreach, the Humane Society of Northeast Iowa, Wartburg Science Department, Northeast Iowa RSVP Program, Winneshiek County Conservation, and Decorah High School helped to make this event a success.

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Ellie Burras was able to hold a bearded lizard from Wartburg College’s biology department.

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Volunteers with The Raptor Resource Project taught students about wild birds.

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12:15 p.m. in the commons.

Storytime for youth is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. with Sharon Rossman reading Jan Brett’s “Christmas Trolls” in the Norway House inside the museum building.

Visitors will have a chance to craft their own decorations at stations throughout the museum building and the first floor of the commons, including Scandinavian heart baskets, yarn nisse dolls, julenek straw wheat

ornaments and paper crafts. Sally Stromseth, Ruth Green, and Lia Vestecka will demonstrate rosemaling. Kim Glock will demonstrate green woodworking. Beverly Schrandt will be making straw wheat ornaments, and Renee Thoreson and Lynette Aanonson will show Hardangersøm embroidery. Oneota Weavers Guild members will demonstrate weaving and spinning, and Mary Lake will teach visitors how to make lucet braids.

Many of the folk-art demonstrators will also be selling items.

The Norman Borlaug Heritage Foundation will sell julenek — sheaves of wheat — grown from Borlaug wheat, which was developed in the 1960s by Howard County’s Norman Borlaug in an effort to address world hunger. In Norway on Christmas Eve, julenek are hung outside to feed the birds. NBHF uses the proceeds of the julenek sales to support their food program, which packages meals for people in areas of the world experiencing food scarcity.

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16 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Decorah shines with gridiron honors

Naomi Kutz, Jenna Schissel, Avalea Burns, Liz Bucksa, Bella Sailor and Grace Baker (l-r) competed over the weekend at the 2024 state swim meet. (submitted photo)

Louis Bucksa Senior Mr. Football Overall MVP

Brayden Wemark Senior Kicker of the Year

William Hahn Senior First Team All-District

Gavin Groux Senior First Team All-District

Trevor Kuennen Junior First Team All-District

Noah Milburn Junior First Team All-District

Gatlin Dahlberg Senior First Team All-District

Jackson Pipho Senior First Team All-District

Tommy Sexton Junior First Team All-District

Keaton Orris Senior Second Team All-District

Fine finish for Viking swimmers at state meet

The Decorah girls swim team capped its season over the weekend at the state swim meet in Marshalltown.

The Vikings sent four events to the meet, which featured teams from across the state, regardless of size.

Overall, Dowling Catholic was the team champion with 260 points. Waukee Northwest was a close second with 243.

Although Decorah didn’t score any points, the Vikings did swim to their potential, having four strong races.

Liz Bucksa kicked off the competition for Decorah in the 100-yard breaststroke event.

The sophomore was seeded 18th with a time of 1:07.70 entering the prelims Friday night. She finished the season in 1:08.34 in 20th. Waterloo West’s sophomore Lucy Parson won the event in 1:02.43.

In the pool, Saturday started with the 200-yard medley relay.

The combination of Bella Sailor, Jenna Schissel, Liz Bucksa and Grace Baker came into the meet with a time of 1:55.90,

seeded 21st. Saturday, the quartet finished 18th in 1:56.10.

Cedar Falls won the event in 1:45.36.

The same quartet dove back into the water to compete in the 200-yard freestyle relay, finishing 21st in 1:44.26, one spot ahead of their seed. Winning the event was Bettendorf in 1:35.07.

The foursome concluded the meet in 24th in the 400-yard freestyle relay, posting a time of 3:48.92. Bettendorf won the final relay in 3:28.39.

Ohrt steps down as Warriors’ football coach

Inheriting a team that had gone 0-9 during the 2006-07 season, Jason Ohrt soon turned the program around and led the South Winn football program through ups and downs for the past 18 seasons.

Coming to South Winn in 2007, Ohrt hailed from Dubuque Senior where he had served as a freshman assistant coach, sophomore head coach and varsity defensive coordinator.

Ohrt, also a physical education teacher at South Winn, announced last week that he is stepping down from the program, which has qualified for the playoffs 13 times, won seven district titles and won 14 playoff games during his tenure, amassing a career record of 114-69. That record includes leading the Warriors to a state runner-up finish in 2009 and a semifinal spot in 2014.

“Taking part and helping develop our youth into future leaders is what drives me as a teacher and coach. That will never change. I may be stepping away from the coaching aspect for now, but I still believe and take pride in these values as I continue to grow as an educator,” said the long-time skipper.

Ohrt said he will continue to work as an educator at South Winneshiek.

“My goal is to address and

After 18 seasons at the helm, Jason Ohrt announced last week that he is stepping away from the South Winn football program. (Photo by Becky Walz) better manage some concerns/ issues I have with my own personal health. I’m excited and look forward to the future of Warrior Football and all other activities at South Winneshiek,” Ohrt said. “Whoever takes my place will have my full support and encouragement. When I am able to get a better handle on things health wise, I will keep an open mind toward coaching again in a lesser role. Unfortunately, the stressors and time commitment that come with being a head coach are no longer something I wish to endure at this point in my life.”

Ohrt went on to take the opportunity to acknowledge and

thank the many people he said have been a part of his journey along the way.

“To all my past and current players/managers, administrators/assistants, assistant coaches, program volunteers, athletic trainers, grounds crew/maintenance, local media representatives and parents/community members, thank you for your help, support, passion and efforts along this journey,” he said. “Thank you for welcoming and allowing me the opportunity to serve and lead our football program within such a great community for the past two decades. I have had an absolute blast.”

Schultz joins NICC athletic department Northeast Iowa Community College athletics announced the hiring of their cross country coach recently.

Former Loras College coach Bob Schultz will lead the Cougars men’s and women’s cross country teams starting in fall 2025.

Running has been a part Bob Schultz of Schultz’s life since high school, and he has seen success at every stop along the way. Between being a state champion in high school, running collegiately at the DII level and becoming a national championship-winning coach at Loras, he knows what it takes to elevate athletes to the next level and achieve greatness.

Schultz has over 30 years of collegiate coaching experience, including 23 in the Dubuque area.

“I knew in high school that I wanted to be a cross country coach,” Schultz said. “I didn’t decide to be a college coach until I was in college myself. The position is intriguing to me because it is brand new. I love the idea of building a program from nothing and creating a lot of firsts. I also like that NICC is right here in my backyard.”

Having recently retired from Loras earlier this year, Schultz knew he wanted to chase this opportunity when it opened. One of his former runners had informed him of the position.

This is not the first time Schultz will be building a program from scratch. While coaching at his hometown school of Elmhurst College (now Elmhurst University), he inherited a program that was down at the time. He was able to turn the tide on the program and give it a heartbeat it hadn’t seen in years.

“I believe I can help the team the most by establishing a culture of character and success,” he said. “I want to set the standard of greatness at the beginning and pursue that on a daily basis.”

Athletic Director Nick Weinmeister said he feels fortunate to add someone with Schultz’s experience to the athletic department.

“His knowledge of the sport, recruiting experience and extensive network in collegiate coaching will be invaluable in getting the cross country program built and maintained for NICC.” Schultz added that he is thrilled about the opportunity to start up a cross country program at NICC and begin competition in fall 2025. To stay up to date on NICC Cougar Athletics, visit nicc. edu/athletics.

Cash Riehle Senior Second Team All-District

Henry Brynsaas Junior Second Team All-District

Thirteen Decorah football players were recognized by Class 4A District 2 for their work on the gridiron in 2024, along with the Vikings having the Coaching Staff of the Year.

It’s the first time for 10 of the 13 receiving a district nod.

Special distinctions Aside from those athletes receiving first or second team honors, seniors Louis Bucksa and Brayden Wemark earned special recognition.

Bucksa, the initial starting quarterback, called out the signals for just over seven games before a season-ending injury took him to the sidelines. Despite watching the final three and a half games from the team box, Bucksa completed 73-of-122 passes for 1,236 yards, finishing second-best in the district. He led the district in passing touchdowns with 14 and rushed himself for four scores as he carried the pigskin 31 times for 107 yards to earn the Mr. Football - Overall MVP award.

Wemark was named the Kicker of the Year, as he was 36-for40 in PATs and made five, his longest being 39 yards, the most in either category of any other kicker in the district. The senior kicked off 60 times for the Vikes for a total of 2,996 yards, including six touchbacks.

First team Seven athletes were named to the first team, including William Hahn, Gavin Groux, Trevor Kuennen, Noah Milburn, Gatlin Dahlberg, Jackson Pipho and Tommy Sexton.

As a sophomore, Hahn was a second-team honoree and has notched first team accolades the past two seasons as a left tackle for the Vikes. He aided Decorah in scoring 39 touchdowns this season and amassing 3,662 yards of total offense during the 2024 campaign.

Groux picks up his second all-district nod as a full safety on the Viking roster. The senior was a second team selection a

Will Larson Junior Second Team All-District

year ago. Instrumental on both sides of the pigskin, Groux had 36 total tackles, 27 of them solo stops to go with 501 yards rushing. Averaging 7.2 yards a carry, he scored six touchdowns on the ground. Groux also caught 21 passes for another 269 yards, scoring once.

Moving from a second team designation to first team, Kuennen was third in the district with 888 yards as one of the Vikings’ running backs. The junior scored seven times as Decorah’s leading rusher, averaging 5.1 yards a carry. Pulling down nine passes, Kuennen had 1,156 all-purpose yards which was fourth best in the district.

Milburn, a junior tight end for the Vikes, hauled in 25 passes for 427 yards, finishing third in the district for his inaugural nod. He also shouldered punting duty with 37 punts for a total of 1,348 yards.

Racking up 70 total tackles, Dahlberg was just 0.5 tackle from leading the district. Of his tally, 44 of those were solo stops with nine tackles for a loss. The linebacker also collected four fumble recoveries and had two interceptions for the Viking defense.

Viking corner back, Pipho, was there for 31 solo tackles and 10 assisted stops to go with a pair of interceptions during his senior campaign for his first all-district honor.

Third on the squad in total tackles, Sexton grabbed his first district nod at the conclusion of his junior campaign. Filling in a linebacker role, he was third with 41.5 total tackles for Decorah with 27 solo tackles and 3.5 tackles for a loss. Sexton had three interceptions during the season with one returned for a touchdown.

Second team Four Vikings received their first all-district selections on the second team. Among the honorees were seniors Keaton Orris and Cash Riehle, along with juniors Henry Brynsaas and Will Larson.

Those named as the Coaching Staff of the Year in Class 4A District 2 from Decorah included (front row, l-r) Assistant Coach Jesse Halweg, Head Coach Mike Tangen, Assistant Coach Alec Zwanziger; (back row) Assistant Coach Ethan Pole, Assistant Coach Brian Waskow, Assistant Coach Jared Bucksa, Assistant Coach Matt Kuempel and Assistant Coach Josh Fenske. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Orris, the nose guard, anchored the defensive line for the Vikes, a defense which tallied 492 total tackles, of which Orris had 25.5 with 12 solo stops and 4.5 tackles for loss.

Snapping the pigskin at center, Riehle helped provid protection for the quarterbacks who threw for 1,497 yards and the running backs who rushed for another 2,165, allowing the Vikes to average 29.27 points per game.

Brynsaas, a defensive end, earned his first district honor with 20.5 total tackles. The junior had 5.5 tackles for a loss to go with 1.5 sacks and 10 solo stops.

On the gridiron of 23 solo tackles (32 total), Larson earned his second team nod. The junior also recovered one fumble on defense. Offensively, Larson caught 13 passes, averaging 17.2 yards per reception with a pair of touchdowns.

Academics The Vikes also were recognized for their efforts in the classroom. In total 19 Vikings were named academic all-district.

Among the honorees were seniors Louis Bucksa, Carter Dlhy, Gavin Groux, William Hahn, Caleb Krieg, Jackson Pipho; and juniors Tristan Baker, Henry Brynsaas, Tanner Caddell, Ian Giddings, Caleb Johnson, Trevor Kuennen, Jameson LaBelle, Noah Milburn, Cain Monreal-Rice, Landon Quandahl, Thomas Sexton, Archer Sims and Peyton Webb.

Class 4A District 2 Coaching Staff of the Year – Mike Tangen and Decorah Mr. Football-Overall MVP – Louis Bucksa, Sr., Decorah Offensive MVP – Ethan Bibler, Sr., Waverly-Shell Rock Defensive MVP – Garrett Kluesner, Sr., Western Dubuque Punter of the Year – Noah Case, Sr., Marion Kicker of the Year – Brayden Wemark, Sr., Decorah Utility Player of the Year – Drew Hobart, Jr., Mason City First team – William Hahn, Sr., LT, Decorah; Noah Milburn, Jr., TE, Decorah; Gavin Groux, Sr., FS, Decorah; Trevor Kuennen, Jr., RB, Decorah; Gatlin Dahlberg, Sr., LB, Decorah; Jackson Pipho, Sr., Corner, Decorah; Tommy Sexton, Jr., LB, Decorah; Cam Kramer, Sr., LB, Waverly-Shell Rock; Matthew Langner, Jr., OL, Waverly-Shell Rock; Ian Sedgwick, JR., OL, Waverly-Shell Rock; Kael Dewey, Jr., LB, Waverly-Shell Rock; Wesley Hubbard, Sr., QB, Waverly-Shell Rock; Gavin Stockdale, Sr., TE, WaverlyShell Rock; David Theisen, Sr., LB, Western Dubuque; Drew Burds, Sr., DB, Western Dubuque; Drew Bergfeld, So., RB, Western Dubuque, Alex Gassman, Jr., LB, Western Dubuque; Clayton Hogan, So., OL, Western Dubuque; Logan Tilkes, Sr., LB, Marion; Brady Walsh, Sr., OL, Marion; Ethan Halm, Sr., DL, Marion; Drayden Witt, Jr., WR, Mason City; Andrew Novak, Sr., LB, Mason City; TyAndre Sanchez-Evans, Jr., TE, Mason City; Jah’Khi Parker, Sr., UT, Waterloo East; Keeron Harris-Veasley, Sr., DT, Waterloo East; Isaac Lomas, Sr., DB, Waterloo East Second team – Keaton Orris, Sr., Nose, Decorah; Cash Riehler, Sr., Center, Decorah; Henry Brynsaas, Jr., DE, Decorah; Will Larson, Jr., DB, Decorah; Charlie Kramer, Sr., LB, Waverly-Shell Rock; Brady Bodensteiner, Jr., DB, Waverly-Shell Rock; Sam Wilson, Sr., DB, Waverly-Shell Rock; Nathan Miller, Sr., DB, Waverly-Shell Rock; Charlie Ernzen, Jr., DL, Western Dubuque; Owen Habel, Jr., DB, Western Dubuque; Tanner Anderson, Sr., QB, Western Dubuque; Bradley Brosius, Jr., UT, Western Dubuque; Matthew Danninger, Jr., WR, Marion; Kolby Beltz, Jr., S, Marion; Gideon Hansen, Jr., DL, Marion; Noah Fischer, Jr., LB, Marion; Jayden Williams, Jr., DL, Mason City; Lincoln Berding, Jr., DB, Mason City; Jameer Falls, So., QB, Mason City; Carter Klemesrud, Sr., DB, Mason City; Tariq Moore, Sr., WR/DB, Waterloo East; Gianni Speller, Sr., LB, Waterloo East; Jordan Banks, So., LB, Waterloo East; Brayden Card, Jr., OL, Waterloo East