July 10, 2025

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Vol. 160, Issue 28 www.decorahleader.com

Decorah, Iowa 52101 email: editor@decorahleader.com

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Defense attorneys renew call for AG's Steel sculpture case against Sheriff Marx to be dismissed rises in Carl Hearing to be held next week Selland in Des Moines Park

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR

Attorneys defending Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx have reiterated their request for a judge to dismiss a case brought against Marx earlier this year by Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird. A hearing on the matter, as well as a separate request to hold the pending trial in Winneshiek County, is scheduled to take place next week.

The case centers on a statement the sheriff had written on Feb. 4 in response to local concerns over potential immigration enforcement actions — the sheriff’s statement was posted to his office’s Facebook page and submitted to area news out-

lets for publication. The sheriff said in his statement that he views the use of non-judicially vetted detainers by agencies like the FBI or Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a violation of citizens’ rights under the Fourth and Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

“The only reason detainers are issued is because the federal agency does not have enough information or has not taken the time to obtain a valid judicial warrant,” Marx wrote.

Marx’s statement also expressed his office’s willingness to assist in verifying the legitimacy of any paperwork federal agents may have. However, Marx said, if a federal agent’s paperwork falls outside what he called constitutional parameters, “then we will make every effort to block, interfere and interrupt their actions from moving forward.”

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds filed a complaint with the Iowa Attorney General’s Office the

Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird

next day. Bird’s office released a report on March 26, saying Marx’s post was at odds with a portion of Iowa Code prohibiting law enforcement from discouraging cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

The attorney general’s report instructed Marx to remove the post by 5 p.m. that same day and replace it with a statement Bird’s office had prepared.

“Our investigation into Win-

neshiek County found that the sheriff is violating the law, and we are giving the sheriff a chance to fix the problem,” Bird said that same day. “Failure to do so means that his county may lose all state funding.”

A court must rule in Bird’s favor before state funds can

Marx case

continued on page 9

2025 Fair Queen, Princess crowned Tuesday Karlie Einck (left) of Decorah was crowned 2025 Winneshiek County Fair Princess on Tuesday, and Rylee Averhoff of Decorah was crowned 2025 Winneshiek County Fair Queen. (Photo

by Seth Boyes)

The sculpture “Rolling Eclipse” by artist Steven Maeck of Burr Oak was installed in Decorah’s Carl Seeland Park the morning of Monday, July 7. The sculpture is to be leased to the city for at least one year through Decorah’s Self-Supporting Municipal Improvement District — or SSMID — with the option to renew the lease each year. Maeck said he has agreed to apply the cost of each year’s lease to the purchase price of the sculpture, estimating the city could potentially own the artwork after leasing it for 10 years. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR The profile of a distinct welded steel sculpture now stands among the beech and oak trees of Decorah’s Carl Selland Park.

The piece, entitled “Rolling Eclipse,” was created by artist Steven Maeck of Burr Oak approximately two years ago, and the sculpture was installed late Monday morning near the intersection of College Drive and Fifth Avenue. The project was funded through Decorah’s Self-Supporting Municipal Improvement District — or SSMID. The district was established in 2000 as a special taxing district in which property owners agree to pay additional

property taxes specifically for city improvements, such as benches, bicycle racks or — in this case — public art installations, within the district’s bounds. “ “Cities that invest in making their spaces interesting and engaging are places people want to be,” said SSMID committee member Eric Sovern. “At the end of the day, we are tasked to use the funds we are allotted to help visitors and locals alike enjoy their visit to downtown.”

The city absorbed the cost of installing the sculpture, and Maeck agreed to lease the

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com Sculpture

continued on page 3

City council to replace fire station concrete during road improvements

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER

Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken explained how a portion of the Decorah Fire Department’s concrete apron is sinking in part due to discrepancies in concrete thickness, which he said has resulted in a lack of proper storm water drainage. (Photo by Denise Lana)

Construction is in full force around the Decorah Municipal Building. The extensive Heivly Street Project continues to make strides, with new sidewalks and drainage lines installed from Decorah High School to the municipal building.

However, when workers reached the building’s west side, where the city’s fire department is located, they discovered the concrete apron is only 5 inches thick, while the older near-

by concrete is 7 inches thick.

The discrepancy in thickness has contributed to issues with the apron settling, according to Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken. He said, despite the thinner concrete being newer, it’s in much worse shape than the original concrete and needs to be addressed.

Goedken recommended the city council consider replacing the entire apron and change its grade so water will flow down the new apron and drain away from the building.

“We could go all the way

back to the fire station’s bay doors and position the grade of the apron in one continuous pitch,” Goedken said.

The city manager expressed his concern about spending $40,000 for the apron with decisions yet to be made as to the future of Decorah’s Municipal Building — city officials are already considering whether to renovate the aging building or tear it down completely and build a new structure.

City Engineer John Hjelle stressed that addressing the apron issue shouldn’t be done

in a piece-meal fashion, saying such an approach could result in different grades on varying portions of the property. But he indicated if the city chooses to leave the concrete as it is and address it after plans for the municipal building are finalized, the cost could be around 50 percent more than the current $40,000 estimate.

“If we waited to redo the apron, we would end up tearing

Fire station concrete continued on page 11

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Festina’s Fourth equals fried chicken, flags and fun in the sun Hundreds flocked to Festina Friday, July 4, to enjoy the town’s home-grown festivities, including a parade, ice cream and a fried chicken dinner provided by Mike and Brad Reicks. INSET TOP- Festina native Destaney Kruse, 18, is all smiles driving her tractor in Festina’s parade.

INSET MIDDLE- Audrey Callan, 3, was all sass and smiles as she collected candy during Festina’s parade. She is the daughter of Bridget Callan and Keaton Gibson-Callan of Ossian. (Photos by Denise Lana)

Kristi Holthaus and Terra Kuennen served up Mike Reicks fried chicken dinners in the Festina Community Building.

RIGHT- Lidi Hageman, 6, from Fort Atkinson, enjoys the merry go round in Festina’s park after the parade.

Spillville fireworks light up the sky Des Moines resident Lee Baker made a special trip to Spillville to take part in the town’s Independence Day celebration Saturday, July 5 and bear witness to what event promos called the “greatest fireworks in Northeast Iowa.” After the jam-packed pyrotechnics show, Baker declared Spillville’s fireworks the biggest and best she has seen since she was a child. (Photo by Denise Lana)

Ye Olde Opera House presents 2025 Summer Musical

Jack Klatt Trio rocks and rolls Lawn Chair Night crowd Jack Klatt, a songwriter and finger-style guitarist from Minneapolis, performed his version of rhythm and blues during the July 3 Lawn Chair Night in downtown Decorah. (Photos

by Zach Jensen)

Book by John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick Music and lyrics by Karen and Wayne Kirkpatrick

Shows at 8:30pm Gates open at 7:45pm

at Ye Olde Gray Barn, Spring Grove, MN Content warning: Something Rotten! contains some crude humor, sexual innuendo and adult language

TICKETS

Scan the yolk or visit yeoldeoperahouse.org/tickets ALL RESERVE SEATS $20 BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR $15

Reserve seats at yeoldeoperahouse.org or call 507-498-5859 This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund Something Rotten! is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

The Jack Klatt Trio entertained an audience of about 50 people on July 3 during the Downtown Decorah Betterment Association’s weekly Lawn Chair Night in the 100 block of Washington Street.

NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

3

Officers awarded for lifesaving actions during local house fire

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER The life-saving heroics of six area peace officers were recognized during the Decorah’s City Council meeting Monday.

Three officers with the Decorah Police Department and three deputies with the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office responded on April 20 to a late-night house fire which had trapped the home’s sole occupant inside. Receiving awards were Decorah Police Sergeant Adam Ytzen, officer Chris McLellen and officer Tera Mathis, as well as Winnshiek County Sheriff’s Deputy Lance Peters, deputy Fallon Cassidy and deputy Trevor Thomas.

“Never forget why you started, never forget why you stay and never forget the value of your service,” Decorah Police Chief Tricia Thein said, addressing the award recipients.

“You all have proven that the

value of dedicated professionals working together can and does save lives.”

During Monday’s meeting, Thein showed the city council and the public body camera footage of the response.

A fire alarm was heard shrilly ringing as an officer’s voice yelled to the woman trapped inside. Smoke could be seen billowing out of a doorway as uniformed personnel tried to make entry, and the shattering of glass windows could be heard in the background.

The calm and steady voice of the officer can be heard comforting the woman, reassuring her help is on the way.

“I can’t see, I can’t breathe,” the woman said as officers attempted to make entrance to the house.

The six awardees worked in tandem to enter through a bedroom window and quickly whisked the woman out of the building to safety.

Decorah Police Chief Tricia Thein addressed the area peace officers honored Monday. Pictured from left- Winnshiek County Sheriff’s deputy Lance Peters, deputy Fallon Cassidy, deputy Trevor Thomas, Decorah Police officer Chris McLellen, officer Tera Mathis and Sergeant Adam Ytzen. (Photo by Denise Lana)

“This is boots on the ground, in the moment, life and death emergency response,” Thein said of the response. “Time is of the essence in calls like these.”

The police chief acknowl-

Sculpture sculpture to the city for approximately $2,000 a year, with the option to renew at the end of each year. The artist also agreed to apply the cost of each yearly lease to the ultimate purchase price for “Rolling Eclipse,” allowing the city to potentially own the art after 10 years. Sovern said the city intends to do so, and he confirmed funding for the project is to come solely from the dollars collected through SSMID. Sovern said fellow SMIDD member Andy Nelson initially proposed a sculpture be placed in Carl Selland Park, and Sovern volunteered to help coordinate the project.

“We spoke at length about where a large piece of art might fit best in our district, and lots of ideas were considered,” Sovern said. “We also sought the input of the artist as well.

Somewhere along Water Street was considered, among other spots, but we eventually agreed that Carl Selland Park would be an ideal spot. There is a great deal of foot and bicycle traffic that passes by, in addition to Fifth Avenue being a busy thoroughfare. It’s location-adjacent to local businesses with outside seating, which was also a plus.

The park is also a nice piece of green space that we thought might benefit from something that helped bring some focus to it.”

Maeck, who has been creating metal sculptures from salvaged industrial materials for approximately 20 years, moved from Florida with his late wife Karleen — a Decorah native — in 2017, and relied on a friend and a flatbed truck to bring dozens of his sculptures with him. And he continued to create more large-scale art on the two rural properties they purchased.

Maeck said he considers himself a “modern-day exponent” of artist David Smith, whom Maeck described as the first to use industrial materials for welded steel sculpture.

“I do not consider myself a junkyard artist,” Maeck said. “I do everything I can not to create that aura around my work, but I source all of my material from salvage yards.”

The artist said he selected pieces of what he called industrial detritus which he then hauls to his shop, but he said they can sometimes remain unused for years on end before he finds the right artistic application for any given piece.

In the case of “Rolling

continued from front

Eclipse,” Maeck said he was inspired by a 20-foot section of box tubing during the winter two years ago. He cut the massive piece of metal in half to create the sculpture’s 10-foot vertical body before incorporating round elements toward the top of his work.

“I had some very inspiring circular material that I could mate with a very heavy piece of 4-inch plate that had a cut curve in it,” he said. “So the circular material, when welded to it in the right attitude, would look like it was in motion. Some-

thing I strive for is the appearance of kinetic energy in my work.”

Sovern and Nelson called Maeck last summer after visiting his shop, and Maeck said the two expressed specific interested in “Rolling Eclipse.”

“I personally very much enjoy Steven Maeck’s work,” Sovern said. “It’s sculpture built from discarded metal that ends up being much more than the sum of its parts.

‘Rolling Eclipse’ feels like a very organic work, despite its industrial components, and it seems to fit perfectly in the stand of trees that now surround it. For me, interesting art is something that can be beautiful and interesting, but also something that can spark questions or conversation. We hope people find it a positive addition to our fantastic city.”

INSET- Artist Steven Maeck said he strives to convey a sense of kinetic motion through his welded and assembled steel sculptures.

(Photo by Seth Boyes)

edged the responding officers’ quick arrival to the scene and praised their teamwork and professionalism under stress.

She also thanked the families of all peace officers, emphasiz-

ing how calls like this affect not only the officers responding but also their family members.

“It is incredibly important to me that we collectively take the time to acknowledge the good

works of the men and women in uniform — the sacrifice they are willing to make on any given day, on any given shift,” Thein said.

A downed tree lies across a Chevy Impala it crushed when a July 2 microburst hit Canton, Minnesota. (Photo by Roz Weis)

Canton storm topples trees, damages vehicles

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER A brief but strong storm took its toll July 2, in Canton, Minnesota.

City officials there said the storm toppled several trees — some landing on parked vehicles — but no injuries were reported and no city property was damaged.

The storm dropped about 2

inches of rain on the southern Minnesota town over the course of 10 to 15 minutes and brought winds which topped 60 mph, according to meteorologist Nate Falkinham with the National Weather Service in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He said the storm was considered a microburst.

A microburst, according to information from the National Weather Service, is produced when cool downdrafts inside

thunderstorms — where air is cooled by rain or melting hail — become denser and accelerate downwards. These downdrafts can produce damaging winds, sometimes reaching speeds comparable to an EF-1 tornado. Microbursts, which the National Weather Service said are more rare than tornadoes, can include winds of up to 150 mph in extreme cases.

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OPINION

4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

One year later a thank you to the community Tomorrow, it will have been exactly a year since area residents opened their mailboxes and asked themselves why the heck their newspaper suddenly had the words Decorah

BY SETH BOYES Leader printed across the top of the front page.

News Editor Admittedly, we came without much warning, but we hope you’ve been pleased so far. I know a number of you fully we gain at least a little have been, and that means the ground every so often.

We’ve done some good world to us here at the paper.

But I was once wisely told to work — again, that’s my obscrutinize successes as much viously partial opinion, but as failures. To put it another it’s undeniable there has been way, there’s always room for a lot to cover during the last year. improvement.

There was a school bond.

And I’d have to say, in There was a referendum on my clearly biased opinion, the staff here at the Decorah establishing a local electric Leader continue to pursue im- utility.

There were festivals and provement each week. That’s not an easy thing to do, es- celebrations aplenty.

There’s still that pending pecially in this line of work. court case through which the Some improvements are overt and obvious, yet they don’t Iowa Attorney General hopes run much deeper than the beets to cut off Winneshiek Counmy family and I tried growing ty’s state funding because in our vegetable garden this our sheriff essentially dared year — to make myself clear, to do what another sheriff did our exploratory beet planting during the Civil Rights era — has so far yielded some of the criticize the actions of those puniest root vegetables I’ve in power (alright, you got me, ever seen plucked from the that last one may have been a plug to make sure you take a soil. But hey, we tried.

And trying is important in look at this week’s front page).

Like I said, there’s been a both gardening and in journallot going on this year. And I ism — yet it’s not the end in have no doubt a lot will hapeither case.

You see, while our atten- pen in the next calendar year tion is often drawn to sudden, too — hopefully the one after dramatic change, like a bold that as well and, if all goes new masthead and an updat- well, a few more.

Know that I say that in ed color scheme, more often than not its the small gradual jest, dear reader, because I’m changes in life that herald the confident we’ll be around for some time — because of you. most lasting benefits.

They’re often the type of Even before my family archanges that can’t be mea- rived here in northeast Iowa, sured by a word count or even I was assured this community the heft of a given week’s edi- would support the paper. I was tion. It’s the intangibles. It’s promised a community which learning to see a community understood the value of local through the eyes of someone independent journalism. And else. It’s choosing to tell the you did not disappoint.

We’ve seen the numbers. difficult stories with equal parts truth and dignity. It’s We keep the little notes tucked seeing the local newspaper as into the subscription renewals. more than a glorified bulletin We pass along the encouragboard — taking a proactive ing emails you send our way.

All we can say is thank you, approach to chronicling our community, rather than sim- dear reader.

Thank you for this first year. ply waiting for what’s noteIt’s been a great starting point. worthy to find us.

Dear reader, we’re not perAgree with Seth? Think he’s fect. Roll up this edition of the newspaper and use it to slap got it completely backwards or me across the face if I ever he’s missed the point entirely? claim otherwise. I’d say we do Let your voice be heard. Letters our best, but at the same time to the editor may be emailed to I know we’re striving to outdo editor@decorahleader.com or our best, bit by bit, week by dropped off at 110 Washington week and — as of tomorrow St. Suite 4 in Decorah.

— year by year. And hope-

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No answer to a good question under Iowa’s current law

The bully game

The need for ‘light from Bullying is about putting above’

other people or groups down or threatening them so you can feel powerful and get what you greedily want. Social media and marketing use lies and weaponized words for this purpose. Our corporations and politicians use these methods to create fear and make fools of us. Power and control gained this way is illegitimate and leads to corruption. If you have a conscience, you must stay aware and ask lots of hard questions to fight this trend. Wonder how you are being manipulated by fear mongers and liars. Watch how news and commentary glorifies polarization and conflict rather than talking about real solutions. Use your deepest values to block the bully game.

Don Fish Decorah

Growing up, we sang the song “God Bless America, land that I love, stand beside her and guide her, through the night with the light from above.” That light, God’s word, which guided our Founding Fathers in the formation of this great nation of ours, is still relevant today.

Could it be that the problems at hand are there because we have exhausted divine patience and are under the discipline of our heavenly father? It’s time that we as a nation unite in prayer for wisdom to be granted to those in authority — 1 Timothy 2: 1-2 — to make decisions that reflect that light, and then we can claim as is stated in Psalm 33:12, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” And finally, remember, there is only one king. His name is Jesus!

Dear editor, At the recent Environmental Protection Commission meeting here in Decorah, Julie Fischer’s question about what was going to be done about the ammonia cloud that hangs over Iowa was met with the simple statement that the DNR doesn’t regulate ammonia. What follows is why it doesn’t regulate ammonia and what that means for humans.

In 2018 Larry Stone, Dick Janson and I sued the DNR, asking them to regulate the air pollution emissions, including ammonia, coming out of hog confinements. In his “Order Granting Motion to Dismiss” our DNR lawsuit, the judge wrote: “Section 459.207 is one of many ‘Air Quality’ protections contained in Subchapter II. Section 459.207 expressly addresses the emission of ‘airborne pollutants,’ including the emission of ‘ammonia’ and “hydrogen sulfide,’ from ‘confinement feeding operation structure[s].’

And it expressly authorizes the DNR to take various measures to ‘control’ and ‘reduce’ the emissions of those pollutants ‘from animal feeding operations.’”

In 2003, the EPC adopted rules for regulating “hydrogen sulfide” and “ammonia” air emissions from CAFOs, which were, and still are, authorized under Section 459.207 as the judge noted. However, via the

The Big (not so) Beautiful Bill

rule-making process, the Iowa Legislature made it impossible to regulate air emission pollution coming out of confinements by voting to ‘Repeal the Ambient Air Quality Standards’ for ammonia and hydrogen-sulfide. So, even though Section 459.207 remains on the books, it is currently not possible to regulate air pollution coming out of confinements because there are no ambient air standards in place with which to regulate those CAFO air emissions. In other words, there is no enforcement mechanism to apply the laws.

As a result, Iowa has a constant ammonia cloud hanging over it from the volatilization of synthetic ammonia fertilizers and from confinement ammonia air emissions. When it rains or snows, all Iowans, if they are outside, are fertilized with ammonia.

Confinement air pollutants can harm the human central nervous system, the digestive system, the respiratory system, eyes and skin. Ammonia can cause asthma, and as we know, hydrogen-sulfide can kill you.

Julie’s question about what would be done about the ammonia cloud over Iowa was a good question. It is too bad that, by law, there won’t be an answer to it.

Bob Watson Rural Decorah

Frustrated by Medicaid cuts for ‘Golden Dome’

The rich are being enhanced at the expense of the poor. The humanitarian version should have been that the rich will help their poor brothers and sisters.

There was never a thought given to this. This is a dream and probably a bad one of wishful thinking. In back alley terms: “It’s all backasswards.”

I just finished watching the passage of the “Big Beautiful Bill” on C-SPAN. Shortly after the vote, Speaker Mike Johnson shared the cuts that will be made to various programs, that money will be used to fund the “Golden Dome.” To think that people will lose their Medicaid and SNAP, at least in part to pay for the “Golden Dome.” I am more than frustrated.

John Carver Decorah

Laurie Worcester Decorah

Darrell Elwood Decorah

Echoes of the Past ‘Illicit’ bootleggers aplenty in the area

The escapades of rural bootleggers in the area in the 1900s made front-page news back in that era. July of 1935 was no different. Prohibition (which make the manufacture and sale of alcoholic beverages illegal) was a controversial policy across the country. Bootleggers in Iowa had a profitable business going, mostly because they had easy access to the key ingredient – corn. Most bootleggers set up their businesses in rural areas, away from the law. Whatever moonshine they “cooked up” was available to a willing buyer. But, back to the Decorah story from the summer of 1935. It was a summer day on the highway north of Decorah when Sheriff Graf and Deputy O’Boy ambushed an alleged bootlegger on his drive toward Hesper. The man was driving in a coupe, and the officers forced his auto off to the side of the road about a mileand-a-half from the Minnesota border. The man, we’ll call him Merton, was searched. The investigating team found six halfpints on his person; six more half-pints in his car; and another seven gallons of alcohol in

his living quarters (he was renting a room from a local widow).

According to the news article from July 10, 1935, the officers had been on the trail of the man for some time. He was brought to the county jail, where he was held on bond. Typical bond in that era was $500, and they faced six months in the county jail. Most of the ‘leggers’ usually had no funds to pay the fine and were forced to serve their jail time.

100

YEARS AGO: 1925 – The yearly salaries paid to the 37 rural school teaches of the Independent School District of Decorah was $50,000. A few years ago, a teacher was paid a mere pittance, and some school directors figured they could work for about enough salary to pay their board. But times have changed. The highest paid salary is $3,500 per year to C.C. Gamertsfelder, superintendent of the district. The lowest annual salary is $1,080 for a kindergarten teacher. …The new directors of the Winneshiek County Fair are J.P. Bakke, O.B. Goodno, Gust

4-H rally

Phyllis Erickson was named the county’s best-groomed girl during a 4-H girls’ club rally back in the summer of 1945.

Pictured in the newspaper photo (from the archives) are Mrs. Ole Albertson, center at left, and Miss Erickson, center at the right. New officers at the rally program were Joann Torgrim, Springfield Bluebirds; Marilyn Haugen, Pleasant Live Wires; Evelyn Rolfs, Burr Oak Wonder Workers; and Joyce Peterson, representing the Hesper Junior Homemakers.

Bakken, C.C. Pilgrim, O.J. Ness, Peter Ramlo, E.W. Oxley, Fred Gross and Ben Geving.

H.C. Hjerleid devised the plan for financing the fair this year, selling bonds. He stated that more than $15,000 had been subscribed and that a trust deed to the fairgrounds has been executed to secure the bondholders. …FRONT PAGE NEWS from 1925 – Four Indians from Hokah, Minnesota, have been in town for nearly a week. They

came by auto and are camping in the Decorah tourist park on the bluff. There are two aged women in the group, Mrs. Joe Hall and Mrs. Hopkins. They are selling baskets. Mrs. Hall is said to be a daughter of Chief Winneshiek. She is 66 years old. …Alf Schissel is the new owner of the Hruska farm, 1 ½ miles northeast of Calmar. The

Echoes

continued on page 9

NEWS/OBITUARIES

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

5

Duane Roney County’s search for public health alternative continues Aug. 19, 1947 - July 3, 2025

BY ZACH JENEN STAFF WRITER

Winneshiek County Public Health is looking at ways to possibly reduce the amount of space it needs before services are relocated to the county’s new Community Services Building. Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors Chairman Dan Langreck asked County Public Health Administrator Krista Vanden Brink during Monday’s board of supervisors meeting if she could reduce the amount of square footage her department uses.

The Public Health office currently occupies the entire third floor of the Smith Building — 305 Montgomery St. in Decorah — for which the county pays rent to Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation. The organization purchased the building from the county in 2024. The board of supervisors have previously expressed a goal to relocate Public Health’s offices to the Community Services Building at 607 Washington St. Vanden Brink said reducing her office’s square footage possible, but at the moment, up to three rooms on the third floor are occupied by a stockpile of the county’s emergency preparedness equipment, which she said is being stored for Winneshiek County Emergency Management. She said the equipment has been stored at Public Health since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Winneshiek County Supervisor Mark Faldet put forward the idea of storing the emergency equipment in the county’s former jailhouse — located just feet from the county courthouse.

“We need to have access to it basically whenever,” Vanden Brink said. “Typically, we’re not going to have to go in there at three o’clock in the morning.

Unless there’s a true emergency going on — then we’re all up in the middle of the night, taking care of what needs to be taken care of. But usually, that’s going to happen during daytime hours.”

Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines said the county historical society rents most of the upstairs of the former jail, but it plans to relocate stored items to 302 South Mill Street — which houses the Winneshiek County Historical Society — once the building’s new addition is complete.

“The upstairs isn’t easily accessible, but maybe some of the things that are downstairs could go up there, giving us downstairs space,” Steines said of the former jail. “That would be down the road a year or more probably before they get it cleaned out.”

The local health department also has one off-site storage unit, which Vanden Brink said primarily contains a large drivethrough tent which could be used in case the department is

Winneshiek County Public Health Administrator Krista Vanden Brink discussed her department’s office space needs during Monday morning’s board of supervisors meeting.

(Photo by Zach Jensen) unable to provide services inside its offices.

Vanden Brink said she’d like to see the proposed space in the Community Services Building to determine whether it might be an appropriate location for her offices.

The public health administrator said the board of health’s advisory committee also expressed concerns about the county’s hope to find an outside provider of public health services during a recent meeting.

“They’re concerned about the tactics,” Vanden Brink said.

“They’re coming back and saying, ‘I don’t understand why the board of supervisors is wanting this.’ They feel there’s some shortsightedness from the board of supervisors.”

The Public Health Advisory Committee, which is made up of Elizabeth Kane, Amy Bruening, Liang Chee Wee, Benji Nichols and Carol Kelly, is working to find a solution for the county, according to Vanden Brink, but she said “there are a lot of moving parts,” and finding a solution will require time.

Langreck and County Supervisor Steve Kelsay indicated Public Health officials may be procrastinating in their search for ways to replace the services provided through that office.

The supervisors have asked Vanden Brink to find ways to reduce her department’s spending since 2023. Earlier this year, the supervisors also tasked Vanden Brink with finding an outside entity — such as WinnMed or the Gundersen Clinic — which could begin providing local public health services which are currently provided through Winneshiek County Public Health. Kelsay emphasized the county supervisors had directed the local board of health to secure a request for proposal from other entities which might take on the work, and he expressed frustration over what he saw as a lack of progress.

“I proposed this motion, and it was passed by this board,” Kelsay told Vanden Brink. “I understand your concerns, but I have yet to see, in three or four months, any apparent action (in) contacting these other entities … I’m a little bit puzzled

as to why it takes a long time.

The wheels don’t seem to be turning.”

Vanden Brink replied that “some wheels turn very slowly,” adding that the board of health is made up of working professionals who often have other obligations. She said she expects the Public Health Advisory Committee to have a report for her by the board of health’s August meeting.

“That’s why this advisory committee is separate,” she said. “They can do the work, and they can come back with recommendations to the board of health.”

The supervisors will discuss the issue further in future meetings.

Supervisors consider Community Services Building rental rates Some members of the board of supervisors expressed concern Monday morning about the rental rates tenants of the Community Services Building are paying — saying they are far too low when compared to the building’s expenses.

“We’re getting about half of what we should be getting,” said Board of Supervisors Vice-Chairman Mark Vick.

“We can’t be charging $2.80 a square foot and be paying $9.25 a square foot. That’s just common sense.”

The county’s Community Services Building’s expenses include a one-time cost of $33,302 for interior renovations and a new sidewalk — bringing the county’s total annual expenses for the building to about $60,608 without insurance.

“So, if you add the insurance back into this, we’re at what it cost us per year at the old hospital, if you don’t count any major renovations,” County Supervisor Shirley Vermace said, referring to the period before the county purchased the Community Services Building from the Spectrum Network.

Langreck said the county will save some funds on monthly expenses once it sells the former Iowa Department of Health and Human Services building south of Decorah on Iowa Highway 52. The county

bought the former Spectrum Industries building on the premise that no current tenant would be evicted from it, according to Vermace, and Vick posited at one point that the county could save about $20,000 each year by relocating Toys Go ‘Round — a local nonprofit, which loans children’s toys in a manner similar to a library — to a new location within the Community Services Building. Vick said the county needs to keep in mind the expenses the state is passing down to counties.

“We have a lot more expenses … that they’re throwing at us,” he said. “Two thousand bucks here, $3,000 there, five there.

We need to look at the necessities we need to provide to the county, and we (need) to start at the top and go to the bottom.”

The supervisors will continue to consider its options in future meetings.

In other business • Per a settlement agreement with Steve St. Clair of Decorah, Kim Murphy with the Iowa Public Information Board provided training to the supervisors on law pertaining to open meetings and open records. St. Clair filed a complaint with the state earlier this year, claiming he didn’t receive requested public information in a timely manner, as required by state law.

The supervisors agreed during their May 12 meeting to refund the sum paid by St. Clair for the information and to attend the training.

• The supervisors unanimously voted in favor of a proposed reorganization of Iowa Workforce Development. The reorganization includes merging some workforce development locations in the state due to “a significant reduction in funding.” While the Decorah Iowa Workforce Development office will remain open, an state report said the “long-term funding landscape is uncertain,” citing proposed federal budgets which have included significant cuts to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act — which funds Iowa Workforce Development. If successful, the reorganization is expected to create a new Northeast Iowa Local Workforce Development Area with offices in Decorah, Mason City and Waterloo. Vermace abstained from voting on the issue due to a conflict of interest.

• River City Paving of Dubuque was the low bidder on a patching product for Winneshiek County Road B32, which runs east from Festina to Ossian. The patches will provide paved shoulder and driveway entrances from 220th Avenue to 227th Avenue. The paver’s bid was $79,770.

The next meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held at 9:30 a.m. Monday, July 21 in the courthouse annex. County Auditor Ben Steines said there will be no meeting July 14 due to a lack of agenda items.

Law Enforcement Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office Christopher Scott Jensen, age 40, of Decorah was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 5:10 p.m. Tuesday, July 1 on an arrest warrant for violation of parole.

Bond was set at $10,000.

Possible minor injuries were reported after a vehicle ignited the evening of Tuesday, July 1. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 21-year-old Jameson Reid Bjerke of Spring Grove, Minnesota, was driving a 2017 Toyota Rav4 in the 3800 block of Locust Road in Decorah and swerved to avoid a deer in the roadway. The sheriff’s report said the vehicle missed the deer, but the driver overcorrected and entered the west ditch. The vehicle was on its side and was fully engulfed in flames when deputies responded to a call around 9:56 p.m. that day.

Bjerke was listed as having suspected minor injuries. The vehicle was totaled and was towed from the scene by Don’s Towing.

Regina Michelle Price, age 46, of Decorah was charged with conspiring with intent to manufacture/deliver methamphetamine,

defrauding a drug/alcohol test — synthetic urine or urine additives, first offense — possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine — first offense — at approximately 1:07 p.m.

Wednesday, July 2 at the Winneshiek County Courthouse. A criminal complaint said Price “began interacting with a Doritos bag” while meeting a probation officer to provide a urine sample. The bag was found to contain methamphetamine and a glass pipe, which Price allegedly admitted was to be delivered to a specific person that day. Authorities also found a pipe used for consuming methamphetamine in Price’s purse. Price was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 1:30 p.m. the same day, and law enforcement found she was in possession of Ventolin — a controlled substance, which had been prescribed to another individual — and “a small bottle of a substance that resembled urine.”

Aaron Anderson, age, 54, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 11:15 a.m. Thursday, July 3. Court records show an arrest warrant was issued for Anderson on June 8 for violation of proba-

tion, following allegations of domestic abuse in neighboring Howard County, but more recent filings said the Howard County allegations have since been dismissed. Court documents filed the afternoon of July 3 indicated the warrant and a hearing on the allegedly violation were cancelled.

A Decorah woman was cited for failure to obey a stop sign following a collision last week. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 64-year-old Rachel Sue Hoffland of Decorah was driving a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport west along 360th Street at approximately 8:41 a.m. Tuesday, July 1 near the intersection of 198th Avenue. A 2007 Kenworth three-axle truck driven by Dalton JD Zidlicky of Decorah was headed south through the intersection, and Hoffland failed to come to a complete stop, before continuing through the intersection without looking for oncoming traffic, according to the sheriff’s office. The vehicles collided, and the Hyundai was pushed into the southwest ditch, coming to rest on its drivers side. Zidlicky was uninjured, and Hoffland — who exited her vehicle

through its rear hatch — reported possible injuries. Damage to the Hyndai was estimated at $15,000.

Damage to the Kenworth was estimated at $500.

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

Duane Theodore Roney, 77, of Charles City, died Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Decorah, at Aase Haugen Senior Services being comforted by family and staff.

Duane was born Aug. 19, 1947, in Decorah to Duane Roney Ralph and Angeline (Klotzbach) Roney. He was one of nine children. Duane graduated from Decorah High School in 1965. After graduation, he began work for Fred Carlson Construction until he was called to serve in the United States Army in October 1966. After serving in Vietnam from 1967-1968, Duane met Linda Sweet and within a few years the two united in marriage on May 2, 1970.

The couple took up residence in a few different locations until deciding to call Charles City their home, building many wonderful friendships and memories. Duane had various occupations from his early beginning in construction, L & D Cleaning to Long & Short haul semi driving retiring from Conway (CCX) in December 2011.

Duane was a soft-spoken man with an infectious smile and laugh that could warm hearts.

He was an amazing son, brother, friend, husband, uncle, grandpa and great-grandpa. He most enjoyed spending time with family and friends – traveling, fishing, watching football, grilling, attending family activities, gardening, bird watching, building various wood items and offering a helping hand. Duane was a marvelous father who loved telling stories of taking boys to football games (Go Hawks!, Go Vikings!), fishing trips (who ate the cookies), and many famed camping trips were often his favorite to share.

Duane was well-respected as

a devoted husband caring for Linda until her passing. Shortly thereafter, he was diagnosed with ALS and within a few brief months our Heavenly Father called him home to join his beloved wife.

Living family members include sons: Rob Sweet of Decorah, Thomas (Melissa) Roney of Iowa City, John (Jamie) Roney of Charles City; 12 grandchildren: Hope, Paige, Dylan, Serena Sweet, Crystal, Jacob Garza; Jonah, Caleb, Sofia Roney; Caroline Hedrick, Nicholas and Emma Roney; six great-grandchildren: Harrison, Hadley, Nova, Mathias, Kaylix and Remus; siblings: Arlin (Pat) Roney of Moncks Corner, South Carolina, Donald (Arlene) Roney of Fort Collins, Colorado, Dale Roney of Waukon and Trudy Barrett of Loveland, Colorado; along with several nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Duane was preceded in death by his wife, Linda; parents, Ralph and Angie Roney; mother and father-in-law, Harriet and Lester Leidahl; siblings and inlaws: Robert (Joanne) Roney, Elaine (Dick) Kessler, Jeanette Harms, Ruthie Farley, Dawn Roney and Annie (Kenny) Berry; nephews: Jared Sweet, Travis Berry and Jeff Roney; and niece, Donna Freed.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 11 at Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home in Charles City with Chaplin Al Polito of St. Croix Hospice officiating. Burial will follow at Sunnyside Memory Gardens in rural Charles City. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the start of the service Friday at the funeral home.

Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Louise Hagen

July 29, 1946 - July 3, 2025 On July 3, 2025, Louise Ann Hagen died peacefully at home with her family at her side, following a three-year battle with ovarian cancer.

Louise was born July 29, 1946 in Yankton, South Dakota, and grew up in LeMars, Iowa.

She thrived in a house full of music, athletics, spirituality and exposure to other cultures. Louise graduated from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with an emphasis on organ, choir and sociology.

Louise graduated from college in 1968, a time of great change in our country, which fostered her passion for equality, social justice and building relationships.

Following college, she traveled to Argentina with a friend, which proved to be a life-changing trip. Louise ended up living there for 19 years during which time she studied language, taught English, did translation work, ran a toy store and created a community of lifelong friendships.

In 1990, Louise returned to Iowa. She earned a master’s degree in English as a Second

Language/Spanish (TESOL). In her classes, she met Janet. They became friends, fell in love and eventually married. Louise and Janet moved to Grinnell, Iowa, where Louise taught high school Spanish for 10 years.

Janet and Louise retired and moved to Decorah in 2009.

They were warmly welcomed and have been blessed to be part of a vibrant, compassionate, inclusive and ecologically conscious community. Louise loved to sing. She provided a solid, steady foundation in her singing groups, much as she did in her relationships.

Louise is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Joyce Hagen; brother, Christopher (Carol) Hagen; and son, Liam (Cerrisa Snethen-Murphy) Murphy.

She is survived by her spouse, Janet Alexander; sister, Jean Jonas; brother, Jonathan (Joy) Hagen; son, Conor (Elsa McCargar) Murphy; grandsons ,Jack Murphy and Flynn Murphy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Louise will be missed. Her spirit continues with us!

Service Notices DONNA LECHTENBERG, 81, of Waverly and formerly of Spillville, died Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community in Waverly. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 10m at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 207 Church St., Spillville, with Rev. Henry Huber presiding. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of the service Thursday at the church.

VICTOR FYE, 85, of Decorah, died Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Wellington Place in

Decorah. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 11 at Decorah Lutheran Church, 309 Winnebago St., Decorah, with Rev. Eric Thiele presiding. Burial will be in the New Oregon Cemetery rural Cresco. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, July 10 at Helms Funeral Home, 306 E. Water St., Decorah. There will be no visitation before the service Friday at the church.

KAREN KOHLS, 73, of Clermont, died Monday, June 30, 2025 at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon.

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6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Decorah to seek county assistance NEI3A appoints Greg Zars as new CEO in funding sports facility

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER With a $1.5 million dollar balance looming over the city’s future sports complex, the Decorah City Council voted unanimously on Monday to ask Winneshiek County for a $500,000 contribution to the project.

“Currently our rec programs and all our amenities are enjoyed by both residents and non-residents with no additional upcharge,” said Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken. “We don’t charge additional out-oftown fees for rec programming, pool passes, shelter rentals or anything like that. The cost of those operations are offset by Decorah property taxpayers.”

The city previously sold two parcels of land to the Decorah Community School District for approximately $2 million.

That land is to be the site of a new elementary school, just west of John Cline Elementary, which will be demolished after the new building is complete.

The sale also included the city baseball fields, and the city then purchased approximately 30 acres along Old Stage Road for around $1.3 million, and plans call for a new athletic complex to be constructed on that site.

“This project is what makes this new school building possible,” said Decorah City Council member Steven Zittergruen, who added the city should ask for a letter of support from the school. “This is another way the project is benefitting not only city residents but county residents as well.”

The proposed athletic complex will serve as a venue for the city’s baseball and softball

recreation programs, and the complex is expected to pick up pickleball programming as well.

Goedken said 55.3 percent of the city’s 2025 summer programming consisted of city residents, while other Winneshiek County residents represented 38.3 percent of the summer programming. The remaining 6.4 percent of participants reside outside of Winneshiek County.

The city is hoping to pursue a Community Attraction and Tourism — or CAT — grant, which assists communities with recreational, cultural and educational projects. Goedken said Decorah is eligible for up to $500,000 through the grant program, but the city can’t apply for the funds until they are within 10 percent of the total fundraising goal.

“The CAT grant is by no means a guarantee,” Goedken said. “But an additional $500,000 from the county would go a long way to assist with the cost of this project.”

Goedken added that organizers need to demonstrate local support for the sports complex from city, county and private funding before the city can apply for a CAT grant.

“This is an additional reason to ask Winneshiek County to help contribute to the cost of this project,” Goedken said.

Council members agreed with Goedken, reiterating that more than one-third of the city’s recreational programs were attended by county residents outside Decorah, at no cost to them.

Zittergruen recalled the county judiciously making its donation toward the construction of the current Sunflower Child De-

“Currently our rec programs and all our amenities are enjoyed by both residents and non-residents with no additional upcharge ...

The cost of those operations are offset by Decorah property taxpayers.”

-Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken. “

velopment Center in Decorah, which opened last year. The city councilman said he hoped the county would do the same with the city’s proposed sports complex project.

“I appreciate that the county is looking at budgets with the same trepidation we do. I know it’s a hard time to budget right now as a government,” Zittergruen said. “I sure hope they see this as an issue of fairness and justice, that this is something good to do for our communities’ children, and we should all carry some of the weight.”

City council members agreed with Goedken and Zittergruen, and they ultimately voted to request $500,000 from the county — an amount equal to 33 percent of the project’s cost.

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Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging recently announced the appointment of Greg Zars as its new chief executive officer, effective Aug. 1. Zars will succeed current CEO Mike Donohue, who will retire at the end of July.

“Mike’s leadership, Mike Donohue Greg Zars Kristie Wiltgen compassion, and vision have made a significant differ- caregivers,” Zars said. “Mike’s uted at the national level as an ence, both within our organiza- leadership has laid a strong alternate board member for UStion and across northeast Iowa,” foundation, and I look forward Aging, advocating for the needs said Jacob Bates, chair of the to building on that success with of older Americans.

NEI3A Board of Directors. “We our dedicated team and commu“This adventure has truly are grateful for his service and nity partners.” been the perfect capstone to my excited for Greg to lead us into In addition to this leadership working career,” Donohue said. the future.” transition, Kristie Wiltgen will “I’ve been blessed to find a misZars joined the agency in assume the role of chief operat- sion-driven opportunity where I 2012. Over the past 13 years, ing officer. could share my experience and, he has held several leadership Officials said Donohue’s in the process, feel a profound roles, most recently serving as retirement marks the end of sense that my work has made a deputy director. Officials with a chapter at NEI3A. Since be- difference. I couldn’t be proudNEI3A said Zars was instru- coming CEO, Donohue has er of what we’ve accomplished mental in strengthening pro- guided the agency through pe- together.” gram operations, advocating for riods of growth and transforma Northeast Iowa Area Agenolder adults and advancing the tion, while remaining engaged cy on Aging serves 18 counties agency’s person-centered ap- in the broader community. He in Northeast Iowa and is one of proach to aging services. has served on the Dubuque six Area Agencies on Aging in “I’m honored to step into Racing Association/Gaming Iowa. For more information, the role of CEO and continue Board since 2014, holding the visit www.nei3a.org. the vital work NEI3A does to position of board chair for part support older Iowans and their of his tenure. He also contrib-

Westcott, Dozark plead guilty to charges stemming from November drug bust Three of initial nine defendants now remain on trial schedule

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR Another pair of suspects charged late last year as part of an investigation into regional drug trafficking have pleaded guilty.

Court records show 26-yearold Tyler James Westcott of West Union pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance and failure to affix a drug tax stamp. He is to pay a $1,025 fine for the tax stamp violation and complete five years of probation. Westcott is also to serve two days in jail for the possession charge. He had initially been charged with conspiring to deliver marijuana as well, but that charge is to be dismissed as part of a plea agreement with prosecutors.

A guilty plea was also filed late last month by 26-year-old Tyler John Dozark, who had been charged with possession of a controlled substance as part of the same investigation. He is expected to serve two days in jail and complete a two-year period of probation.

Previous court records showed the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office had been following a pattern of possible drug sales in the area dating back as early as February of 2023. Investigators claim 21-year-old Ckaiden Dean Nelson-Coonradt of Elmore, Minnesota, had travelled to the state of Oregon in April of 2024 and messaged a number of Winneshiek County residents the next month to arrange the sale of illegal substances — court documents said investigators believe Westcott had accompanied Nelson-Coonradt to Oregon on at least four separate occasions. A sheriff’s deputy reported in the resulting court documents that Nelson-Coonradt returned to Winneshiek County in October of 2024 and made several brief stops outside local businesses as well as area residences — including a home in the 2200 block of Highway 9 west of Decorah, which court documents indicated to be Dozark’s residence at that time.

The sheriff’s office learned Nelson-Coonradt was in Calmar the afternoon of Nov. 27, 2024, and law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of the SUV Nelson-Coonradt was driving. A search of the vehicle revealed about 300 grams of bud marijuana, 200 grams of THC wax

Tyler James Westcott

Tyler John Dozark

and more than 100 THC cartridges. Nelson-Coonradt was also found to be in possession of nearly $1,200 in cash. Nelson-Coonradt was charged with two counts of possession of marijuana with intent to deliver, failure to affix a drug tax stamp and possession of a controlled substance. Court documents said Westcott was a passenger in the SUV, resulting in his trio of charges.

Investigators executed a separate search several hours later at the rural Decorah residence on Highway 9. Law enforcement found approximately 2 pounds of marijuana as well as other THC products in the basement of the building, according to court documents. Criminal complaints filed in the case said authorities found “a child’s sippy cup and children’s toys on the floor” near the drugs and “nine juvenile children were located in the residence at the time.”

The search resulted in drug-related charges being filed against seven occupants.

Dozark, 37-year-old Lexus Briann Six and 29-year-old Ashleigh Ann Sorenson and — referred to in court documents as “Ashleigh (Six) Sorenson” — were each charged with possession of a controlled substance. Six pleaded guilty to the charge in March, and Sorenson entered a guilty plea in April.

Both have since served two days in the Winneshiek County Jail and they were each ordered to complete two years of probation — similar to the sentence Dozark is expected to serve.

Luke D. Price, age 27, of Decorah was charged with possession of a controlled substance, failure to affix a drug tax stamp and child endangerment, while 26-year-old Devan Patrick Forbes of Manchester and 29-year-old Jacob Wayne

Willitts of New Hampton were both charged with possession of a controlled substance and failure to affix a drug tax stamp.

Willitts pleaded guilty in February, and he was ordered to serve five years on probation.

Court filings also said 32-year-old Zachary Alan Sorenson — whom court filings indicate has since relocated from Decorah to West Union — was charged with possession with intent to deliver, failure to affix a drug tax stamp, possession of a controlled substance, gathering where a controlled substance was being used and three counts of child endangerment. Criminal complaints said Sorenson admitted to purchasing the drugs and allowing other occupants to use drugs in the basement of the home — investigators believe Sorenson paid Nelson-Coonradt approximately $7,780 between November of 2023 and June of 2024. He pleaded guilty to six of the seven charges in April.

Prosecutors agreed to dismiss a misdemeanor possession charge. The 32-year-old faced up to five years in prison, but the court agreed to suspend his prison sentences and order him to complete five years of probation.

Separate trials to hear the cases against Dozark and Westcott were most recently scheduled for June 11, before further proceedings were ordered. Attorneys in both cases ultimately submitted the recent guilty pleas.

Court records show Price and Nelson-Coonradt are both currently scheduled to have their cases heard at trial on Aug. 6.

Court records most recently listed Forbes’ trial date as July 9, but more recent court records show further proceedings have been scheduled and are expected to take place on July 22.

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

7

City council votes to open five Van Peenen trails to equestrians

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER Horse riders will have access to five designated trails within the city’s Van Peenen Park, but they will be restricted from using other trails previously approved by the Decorah Parks and Recreation Board. The Decorah City Council voted 6-1 on the matter Monday, July 7.

Decorah City Council member Randy Schissel was the lone dissenter.

The final draft of the city’s shared equestrian use proposal was initially drafted by members of the Decorah Parks and Recreation Board, and city council members later made line-item vetos to the policy.

Trails approved for equestrian use in Van Peenen are Fire Road, Pines Connector, Pines East, Pines West, Prairie Loop, Rocky Road and North 40 Extension. The council struck all of the proposed trails which fell outside Van Peenen Park, including The Luge, Old Randy’s and Upper Ice Cave. The initial trails were reduced by the council as a sort of pilot test for the remainder of the 2025 horse-riding season, which ends Oct. 31.

Prior to the vote, Danielle Dotzenrod spoke to city officials on behalf of the Winneshiek Saddle Club and asked the council to approve the parks and rec board’s full list of trails.

Dotzenrod asked, if her request was not possible, that the council support a previous suggestion from councilman Schissel that the Van Peenen Park return

Photo submitted

Stop the Scammers program visits Decorah Danielle Dotzenrod handed materials to city council members as she prepared to make comments on the city’s proposal for shared equestrian use of the trails in Van Peenen Park. (Photo by Denise Lana) completely to horse riders as was originally stipulated when the land was donated to the city

by John Van Peenen in the mid1970s.

“We would not pursue any access to any additional city trails,” Dotzenrod said, “Including the remainder of the trails we have responsibly ridden for more than 50 years.”

Decorah resident Tom Massman also spoke in support of the horse riders, saying he felt Van Peenen himself would feel frustration if he were alive to see how the park is currently being used.

“In a letter written by John Van Peenen to park staff nearly 20 years ago, he says, ‘I think the park has taken about all it can safely tolerate and am reluctant to agree to more,’” Massman said.

Decorah Human Powered Trails Vice President Jesse Ry-

erson, reiterated the cyclists and other trail users were not trying to keep horses out of the park.

“We’ve gone through all of this, nothing has changed,” Ryerson said.

In addition to trail access being limited to Van Peenen trails, equestrian groups are to be limited to four or fewer riders. The limit was proposed by Parks and Rec Board Member Brian Fuhrmann, who claimed other parks in the country established similar restrictions — Dotzenrod claimed she was unable to find such a precedent.

Horses cannot be on trails during 24 hours after inclement weather under the city’s new policy, and the season for horseback riding will span from May 1 through Oct. 31. Additional days may be available at the discreation of the city’s parks and recreation director if weather allows.

Trail, crosswalk redesigns considered for Heivly to increase pedestrian safety

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER Engineers recently discovered issues with the planned improvements to Heivly Street and College Drive. City officials said plans may need to be adjusted to amend the location of the planned pedestrian trail, address a lack of visibility for pedestrians trying to cross College Drive and provide a larger mustering area at the proposed crosswalk.

The project’s current design features a 10-foot-wide pedestrian trail running along the northern side of Heivly, with a 5-foot-wide sidewalk on the southern portion of the street.

According to Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken, a large concrete barrier and handrail may block southbound motorists on College Drive from seeing pedestrians and cyclists who may be queuing up at the crosswalk located near the southwest area of the bridge.

The proposed crosswalk at that intersection is currently designed to cross at an angle from the northern part of Heivly and connect to an existing trail on the western side of College Drive.

Goedken proposed multiple solutions for the city council to consider, and each may potentially be achieved through a change order rather than an entirely new contract. The first option would include moving the wide pedestrian trail from Heivly’s north side to the south side and swap the 5-foot-wide sidewalk to the north side.

“With the trail located on the south side of Heivly, we could better address any queuing up of traffic at the intersection than we could if the trail was located on the north side of Heivly, because of the levy,” said Goedken.

The College Drive crosswalk would connect to the pedestrian trail on the southern portion of Heivly and run along the south

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side of the intersection across College to meet up with the western trail continuation.

Decorah City Engineer John Hjelle said he preferred the idea of the southern crosswalk at the intersection.

The city council had originally decided to put the wide pedestrian trail on the north side of Heivly due to the number of business and residential driveways along the south side which would intersect the trail.

A separate proposal would place a portion of the wide trail along the northern part of Heivly until it reached Mill Street, and the trail would then continue along the southern portion of Heivly. Hjelle said he would put the wide trail on the south side, but he had some concern with how it would connect near Mill Street. He said the trail is less of a concern than user safety at the Heivly-College intersection.

Chase Holien, a design engineer with WHKS — the company overseeing the project’s design — told the city council a decision should be made as soon as possible.

“It obviously takes time to do a redesign and put together new quantities,” Holien said.

No firm decision was made during Monday night’s meeting, but the matter will be added to the next city council agenda for further discussion and action.

The project, which is expected to be put out for bid in the next several weeks, is estimated to take around 40 days to complete and could be accomplished in late fall or early spring.

The Stop the Scammers statewide fraud education campaign visited Decorah last week to teach local residents how to recognize and steer clear of common financial scams.

The free seminars are hosted by the Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services in partnership with the Iowa Attorney General’s Office and AARP Iowa. The seminars aim to educate Iowans about the types of scams impacting the state and how they can protect themselves, especially when it comes to online scams and cryptocurrency scams in the digital era.

“After visiting 18 communities across the state of Iowa last year, we are excited to continue this campaign to educate more Iowans on how to spot and avoid scams,” said Iowa

BY PAUL CUTTING, ENERGY PLANNER SPECIAL TO THE DECORAH LEADER Officials with the Winneshiek Energy District said federal tax credits for solar, heat pumps, energy efficiency upgrades like insulation, exterior doors and windows, electrical upgrades and electric vehicles, may soon be reduced or eliminated outright.

The “Big Beautiful Bill” which recently passed the House and Senate is expected to eliminate such incentives for consumers at the end of this calendar year or phase them out over subsequent years. Local energy advocates said those who may be inclined to move forward with a renewable or energy efficiency project, may want to start now.

Solar For many residential customers, the return on solar investment is as short as seven years.

For businesses and agriculture producers who can take advantage of grants and business depreciation, the payback may be as short as a few years.

The payback period depends on the local situation – electric rates, installation costs, losses due to shading or panel orientation, and utility net metering rules. For most Iowans, the current environment offers a mix of low installation costs and extremely consumer-favorable net metering rules.

Net metering— the system which credits customers for excess electricity they produce— is set to change in 2027. Right now, Alliant and MidAmerican customers sell surplus power back to the grid at the full retail rate the utilities charge residential customers. In 2027, the Iowa Utilities Board will oversee a shift to what has been

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hang up and contact my office at 1-888-777-4590. Remember to never send money to someone you met online or through a cryptocurrency ATM.” The Stop the Scammers roadshow will visit 22 communities this summer.

“Education is such an important component of fraud prevention,” said AARP Iowa State Director Michael Wagler. “By visiting communities across the state to share information about how these criminals operate, we hope to equip Iowans with knowledge they can use to avoid being targeted and scammed.”

Remaining locations for the Stop the Scammer Roadshow include Cedar Falls, Dubuque, Marion and Waukee.

For more information, visit iowafraudfighters.gov.

Winneshiek Energy District says Iowans should consider solar, heat pumps and EV’s before federal tax credits disappear

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Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen. “With the prevalence of scams rising due to technology, we want to ensure Iowans have all the tools, information and state and local resources at their disposal to shield their savings.”

Organizers said, with the rise in digital technology and artificial intelligence in recent years, scammers have adopted creative, clever and emotional tactics to con Iowans out of their hard-earned money.

“Scammers prey on ‘Iowa nice’ and will stop at nothing to rip-off Iowans,” said Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird.

“We’re laser-focused on supporting fraud victims and teaching Iowans how to protect themselves by spotting the red flags of a scam. If a suspicious number calls you and asks for money,

called a value of solar methodology, which may be less generous. By installing solar before the net metering change, property owners can be grandfathered into the existing system, potentially locking in a better deal and maximizing savings.

Under the Inflation Reduction Act, homeowners can claim the federal tax credit equal to 30 percent of their total investment. The credit directly reduces the amount of federal income tax owed, and if a homeowner doesn’t have sufficient tax liability for the year in which the system was built, the remaining unused portion can be carried forward and drawn down over future tax years.

But that 30 percent is likely to disappear at the end of the calendar year. Homeowners may want to have their solar arreays completed and put into service before that time. As part of a solar installation, contractors file an interconnection application with the utility company on the homeowner’s behalf.

This process takes time, and the Winneshiek Energy District recommends homeowners move forward on such projects as soon as possible.

Heat pumps and energy efficiency Heat pumps have the potential to offer substantial operational cost savings, while increasing home resale values and home comfort. Heat pumps can be used for both space heating and cooling, as well as for water heating. The current tax credit for heat pumps is 30 percent up to $2,000. In addition, there’s a 30 percent tax credit up to $1,200 for insulation, exterior doors and windows, and electrical panel upgrades.

In many cases, the upfront cost difference between a standard central air conditioner and an upgraded heat pump version is narrowed or fully offset by the federal tax credit. The same can be said for heat pump water heaters. When the federal tax credit is combined with local utility incentives, the cost of installation for a heat pump version is less than gas, and the cost of operating a heat pump water heater is often less than a comparable natural gas version.

Officials with the Winneshiek Energy District said this incentive, like the solar tax credit, is likely on the chopping block.

The organization recommends those interested in installing heat pumps move ahead soon and contact an HVAC contractor to be sure they’ve selected a model eligible for the tax credit.

Electric vehicles Federal tax credits for both new and used electric vehicles remain in place and, when owners file their taxes next spring, all credits may be taken as a point of sale reduction in vehicle purchase price.

Tax credit availability varies by vehicle model and are pegged to manufacturing and battery sourcing rules, but many models qualify for between $3,750 and $7,500 in rebates. There’s also a $4,000 tax credit for used EVs which, like the new EV tax credit, can be taken as a point of sale reduction in purchase price In many cases, leasing is another option, as the full $7,500 credit applies to all models, regardless of manufacturing and battery sourcing requirements.

Many manufacturers are also offering special financing rates and additional cash-back incentives.

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Thornton appointed Luther College’s dean of students Luther College President Brad Chamberlain recently announced Julie Thornton has been appointed as the new dean of students for Luther College.

With more than two decades of experience in student affairs and student-facing offices, Thornton joins Luther from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she was the Title IX coordinator and oversaw equity and compliance.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Luther community to start building relationships and working collaboratively with a team to support students through the joys and challenges of college life — focused on students feeling welcomed, having a sense of belonging and finding and nurturing their passions,” Thornton said. “My experiences with students and employees on so many different college and university campuses over my professional tenure has prepared me for the important work ahead in student life at

Julie Thornton Luther.”

Luther officials said Thornton’s past experience at other institutions made her a strong candidate for the role. While completing her doctorate in education at the University of Kansas, Thornton worked in the university’s human resources office and also served briefly as the interim associate vice chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX in Lawrence. Before her doc-

toral work, Thornton was the assistant vice chancellor for students at the University of Minnesota at Rochester. She has also worked at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Winona.

She spent almost four years as director of student activities at Washington University in St. Louis. Thornton also served as the assistant dean of students and director of residential life at Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, Illinois.

“Luther is well regarded as a community of learners marked by deep connections among its students — connections that foster a sense of belonging and a focus upon others,” Chamberlain said. “During the selection process, Provost Pamela Bacon and I agreed that the breadth of Dr. Thorton’s past experiences, her record of implementing student-centered solutions and her commitment to creating environments where students thrive both academically and personally closely aligned with

our mission and strategic priorities associated with supporting the holistic development of students, inside and outside of the classroom.”

As dean of students, Thornton will be one of the lead administrators in the Office of the Provost and work closely with Bacon, who was recently appointed to the position, which was previously held by now-President Chamberlain.

“Her talent for building relationships and collaborating across areas makes her an ideal partner in the integrated provost model,” Bacon said of Thornton. “I’m looking forward to working with her in the Office of the Provost to support and promote student success.”

Thornton will begin her role at Luther in July. She is looking forward to relocating to Decorah and being an active member of the community.

“I am learning about the strong sense of community that exists in Decorah and at Luther, and I am energized about all that is to come,” she said.

Alliant aims to add 1,000 MW of wind energy

In a filing with the Iowa Utilities Commission, Alliant Energy announced plans to add up to 1,000 megawatts of wind energy generation in Iowa to meet demand and ensure reliable, affordable energy for customers.

“This filing marks a significant step in our commitment to an all-of-the-above approach to energy generation,” said Mayuri Farlinger, president of Alliant Energy’s Iowa energy company and vice president of energy delivery. “By expanding our wind energy portfolio, we’re reinforcing our ability to meet customer demand while delivering reliable and cost-effective energy for customers.”

Alliant Energy will own and operate the projects once operational, and the company aims to retain its position as one of the top five largest utility owners and operators of regulated wind in the United States.

The company anticipates a decision from the IUC in the first quarter of 2026. To learn more about Alliant Energy and wind generation, visit alliantenergy.com/wind.

Photo submitted

SERVPRO of Decorah donates to Aase Haugen’s new community nursing home project SERVPRO of Decorah and owners Scott and Libby Demuth recently donated $3,000 to support Aase Haugen’s capital campaign for a new nursing and assisted living facility in Decorah. The Demuth’s purchased the SERVPRO franchise area in 2020, moving into their new office and warehouse on Montgomery Street in Decorah in 2023.

“We are excited to connect to the community in meaningful ways,” said Scott Demuth.

“This project is a very important health care option for Decorah, and we’re pleased to give a boost to their capital campaign.”

Aase Haugen’s capital campaign, “A New Place to Call

Home,” has already garnered $1 million in community support. While the organization has filled the remaining $2 million shortfall in order to get the project underway, organizers said further community contributions are vital.

“Fortunately, businesses like SERVPRO of Decorah recognize the value we bring to the community and have generously chosen to participate in the fundraising,” said Sam Boeke, executive director of Aase Haugen.

The new 72,000-square-foot facility, located on the existing Aase Haugen campus — located in the areas of Highland Drive, Nordic Drive and Glen Barth Circle — is scheduled

for structural completion in November of 2025, with residents expected to move in shortly thereafter. Aase Haugen leadership said the care facility’s current building on Ohio Street will be vacated, and officials are currently pursuing development options for the 7-acre site within Decorah’s city limits.

“The very people we take care of today are the ones who built our community and made it the incredible place it is today,” said Steve Langland, president of Aase Haugen’s board of directors. “It’s a critical service we’re providing to not only those seniors but also their families, and we invite the community to support this effort.”

Decorah Library invites community to book discussion on ‘The Anxious Generation’

Decorah Public Library invites parents, educators and youth advocates to join a twopart book discussion of Jonathan Haidt’s new best-seller “The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness.”

Both discussions will take place at 7 p.m. The Landing Market in Decorah. The first session will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 5, and will cover the first

three parts of the book. The second session will be on Tuesday, Aug. 12, focusing on the final part of the book and discuss practical next steps for families and communities.

Haidt’s book examines the surge in anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges among young people — linking much of the change to the rise of smartphones and social media.

Organizers said the discussion will provide space for adults to

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connect with one another, share insights and identify supportive strategies for managing screen time and fostering healthy development in kids and teens.

“This book club is more than just a discussion of ideas — it’s a chance for parents and educators to come together, reflect on what we’re seeing in our homes and schools, and begin building a stronger foundation for the kids we care about,” said Zach Row-Heyveld, assistant direc-

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Organizers with the Decorah Farmers Market are reminding the public to check their calendars ahead of Decorah’s annual Nordic Fest. The local farmers market will be held from 3-6 p.m. Wednesday, July 23 as usual, but there will be no farmers market held Saturday, July 26.

Free archery event to be held in Fort Atkinson

Winneshiek County Conservation and the Fort Atkinson Public Library will be partnering to host an open archery target shooting practice from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 16 in the Fort Atkinson Community Center Gym. All equipment will be provided — attendees are asked to not bring their own.

Archers of all skill levels, from ages 10 and up, are welcome. The open practice time will begin with a brief safety and technique demonstration

by National Archery in the Schools Program certified instructor Hanna Meyer. Open practice will end in time for participants to head out to the park for the weekly Fort Atkinson Band Concert, which begins at 8 p.m.

Participants are encouraged to contact the Fort Atkinson Public Library at 563-534-2222 or email webmaster@fortatkinsonlibrary.com in order to register and reserve supplies for this free program. Walk-ins are also welcome. For more information, visit www.fortatkinson. lib.ia.us or call 563-534-2222.

Opening reception to be held for Prairie Constructs

The public is invited to join ArtHaus in Decorah this month for Prairie Constructs.

The exhibition’s opening reception will be held from 6-8 p.m. Friday, July 11 in the Doyle G. Heyveld Gallery at ArtHaus. The reception will be a free event with light refreshments. The Prairie Constructs series documents the urban prairie through temporary collages of plants, photographs, plastics and paint. For a decade, Regan Golden has been collecting and documenting plants from the peripheral greenspaces around her neighborhood in the Twin Cities. Prairie Constructs will be open July 11 through Aug. 2.

Trio of organizations to host local listening session

The public is invited to join the Iowa Environmental Council, the Harkin Institute and the Iowa Farmers Union during a Winneshiek County listening session from noon to 1 p.m.

Thursday, July 17 at the Decorah Middle School — 405 Winnebago St. in Decorah.

The session is free and open to the public. RSVPs are required.

Learn more and register online at iaenvironment.org/cancer-

Call (563) 382-9691 to learn more

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Copies of “The Anxious Generation” are available to borrow from the library. Participants are encouraged to read the first three parts of the book before the first meeting. Registration is required and may be completed online at decorahlibrary.org.

For more information or to register, contact Row-Heyveld at zrow-heyveld@decorahlibrary.org.

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project. Those affected by cancer or whose family has been affected by cancer are encouraged to share their stories and hear from others.

Kayak event to be held at Lake Meyer

Winneshiek County Conservation invites the public to kayak from 1-2 p.m. Friday, July 18 at Lake Meyer Park — 2654 Lake Meyer Rd. off Highway 24 between Calmar and Fort Atkinson. Staff will briefly cover basic kayaking safety, and participants will have free time to paddle around the lake.

No experience is required, but attendees are asked to call 563534-7145 and reserve a spot, as kayaks are limited. The event is free and open to anyone age 10 or older. Vessels, paddles, and life jackets will be provided for registered participants.

Participants are welcome to bring their own kayak or canoe.

Participants should meet at the boat ramp on the east side of the lake. In the case of inclement weather, the program will be cancelled. For more information, call Winneshiek County Conservation at 563-534-7145 or visit www.winneshiekwild. com.

Leaf casting workshop to be held at Lake Meyer

The public is invited to join Winneshiek County Conservation at 5:30 p.m. on both July 29 and Aug. 4 at the Lake Meyer Campground Shop to create a leaf cast birdbath or stepping stone. During the first session on Tuesday, July 29, participants will setup and pour castings. In the second session on Monday, Aug. 4, participants will reveal the castings and paint/seal them for to take home for outdoor use.

Participants must attend both sessions and should meet at the campground shop, wearing clothing which can get dirty.

Attendees are also asked to bring a few leaves of their own to use — large, smooth leaves from hostas, cabbage, broccoli, elephant ear plants, monstera and catalpa trees work well.

Burdock and rhubarb leaves also work, but are a bit more challenging to remove from the concrete cast. Organizers will have some leaves to choose from for those who don’t bring their own. This program is for ages 8 and older. Youth between the ages of 8-15 must attend with an adult.

Materials are limited, and registration is required. The materials fee is $20 per person. Payment must be made at the first session.

To register, contact Winneshiek County Conservation at 563-534-7145.

Decorah Public Library announces weekly evening storytime

Decorah Public Library recently announced the addition of Evening Storytime to its weekly programming schedule, starting July 8. Evening Storytime will take place at 5:30 p.m. inside the Decorah Public Library. The program will run for 20-30 minutes. The library open will be open until 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, and families are encouraged to explore additional library resources before or after storytime. This is a drop-in program, and registration is not required. For more information, visit decorahlibrary.org, or email lsmith@ decorahlibrary.org.

NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Decorah Chamber: Chamber Dollars keep money local

Marx case continued from front be withheld from Winneshiek County — Winneshiek County received approximately $7.5 million in state funding during the 2023-24 fiscal year, according to information from the Iowa State Association of Counties. A county may request the same district court restore the county’s access to state funding no less than 90 days after a decision to withhold the funds has been made, according to Iowa Code — state law allows that 90-day period to be decreased if the official responsible for the violation is removed or leaves office.

Questions of free speech State prosecutors claimed in earlier filings that Marx’s statement — which was removed as of March 27 — would continue to discourage the enforcement of immigration detainers if a corrective statement or explicit retraction was not made. The sheriff’s attorneys said Marx can’t be legally forced to make such a statement.

“The remedy the attorney general asks for — a public apology and retraction of his statement — is nothing more than an attempt to unconstitutionally compel Sheriff Marx’s speech,” the defense wrote in a June 27 filing. “Just as the First Amendment safeguards the right to speak freely, it also protects the right to refrain from speaking at all.”

Bird’s office had previously argued Marx was acting in his official capacity when he authored the Feb. 4 post and was not protected by the First Amendment in doing so.

“Just as the state can prevent its attorneys from speaking about pending cases, so too can it prevent sheriffs from giving opinions about the constitutionality of immigration law and stating they will interfere with attempts to enforce detainers,” state prosecutors wrote in a June 6 filing.

However, Marx’s attorneys claimed in a recent filing that elected officials, including county sheriffs, are not necessarily subject to the same constitutional limits an unelected state employee may be.

“The governor and the attorney general, as elected officials themselves, would bristle at the notion that they cannot take a stand on public issues to represent their constituents,” the defense wrote, “and Sheriff Marx does as well.”

The sheriff’s attorneys went on to cite Wood v. Georgia — a 1962 case in which the U.S. Supreme Court found Bibb County Sheriff James Wood should not have been cited for contempt after criticizing a county judge whom the sheriff believed was contributing to the suppression of Black voters. The judge had instructed a grand jury to “investigate alleged bloc voting by Negroes and the rumored use of money by political candidates to obtain their votes.” Wood had released a statement the next day, “urging citizens to take notice when their judges threatened political intimidation and persecution of voters under the guise of law enforcement.” He was cited for allegedly obstructing the investigation, but the Supreme Court overturned the district court’s ruling, saying Wood “had the right to enter the field of political controversy.”

“The role that elected officials play in our society makes it all the more imperative that they be allowed freely to express themselves on matters of current public importance,” the nation’s highest court decided.

Marx’s defense team also argue Bird’s approach to limiting the speech of elected officials isn’t neutral in terms of subject matter.

“A law that is violated by statements critical of federal immigration enforcement and ICE but not violated by statements supportive of federal im-

9

Each year the Decorah Area Chamber issues approximately $100,000 in Chamber Dollars.

Area employers use these for employee appreciation/recognition. Parents of students at Luther College buy them to help connect their student to the town, and residents choose Chamber Dollars as a way to buy a local gift card.

Yard signs, shirts and window decals bearing the phrase “I stand with Dan” began cropping up in the Decorah area in response to the pending case Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird brought against Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx in March. The items were available through Letterwërks Sign City north of Decorah as part of a community fundraiser to support the sheriff’s office. (Photo

by Seth Boyes)

Defense maintains pending trial should take place in Decorah

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR A judge has yet to rule on where a possible trial in the case against Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx should be held.

That question is to be considered by the court as part of next week’s hearing.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird had previously argued Polk County was the proper location for the trial, saying her office’s investigation was based in the state’s capitol of Des Moines. Marx’s attorneys took issue with that position, saying Polk County would become the appropriate venue for all of the attorney general’s cases under such logic.

“The attorney general is essentially arguing that the venue is proper because the attorney general decided to file the petition in the venue it decided to file the petition in — a circular argument for venue that ultimately defeats the point of Iowa Code,” Marx’s attorneys wrote.

The defense also challenged legal precedents Bird’s office had cited in arguing for the case to be tried in Des Moines.

Attorneys representing Sheriff Marx noted the cases cited by state prosecutors involved challenges to illegal administrative decisions, rather than civil action filed against a public official. Marx’s attorneys added the courts decided where to try such cases based upon where the act in question occurred, rather than where an internal government decision was made.

migration enforcement and ICE is a blatant viewpoint restriction,” the sheriff’s attorneys wrote.

The defense went on to point out the attorney general’s office has not claimed Marx’s Feb. 4 post served as a policy within the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office. The defense cited Bird’s own investigation to show Marx has complied with each of the 21 detainer requests ICE has submitted to his office since November of 2018 — previous state law required local law enforcement agencies to formalize policies relating to the enforcement of immigration law by Jan. 1, 2019.

“The most reasonable reading of the statute, knowing that it targets intentional conduct, is that it does not cover statements that only have the ultimate effect of making officers feel less enthusiastic about enforcing immigration laws,” Marx’s attorneys wrote. “Rather, the local entity must intentionally try and hinder the enforcement of federal immigration laws.”

Questions of remediation Winneshiek County Attorney Andy Van Der Maaten previously said he and other local officials were informed of Bird’s March 26 deadline for removing the sheriff’s post the same day she made the announcement. County officials proposed replacing the sheriff’s Feb. 4 statement with a Feb. 14 letter Marx had previously submitted to Bird’s office as part of the attorney general’s investigation, according to Van Der Maaten, but the offer was declined — Bird’s court petition was timestamped at 10:07 p.m. that day by the Polk County Clerk of Court.

“Sanctuary counties are illegal under Iowa law,” Bird said in a statement the next day.

“Sheriff Marx was given the chance to retract his statement, follow the law and honor ICE detainers, but he refused —

even at a cost to his home county. He left us with no choice but to take the case to court to enforce our laws and ensure cooperation with federal immigration authorities.”

The sheriff’s office had removed the post as of March 27 in what a subsequent post called a demonstration of good faith, but Bird’s office later claimed doing so was insufficient to prevent the matter from going to court.

The sheriff’s attorneys pointed out in their recent filing that Iowa Code allows for voluntary compliance through written notices and responses outside the court system. The defense argues such provisions indicate Iowa lawmakers did not intend to “give the attorney general a weapon it could use to punish elected officials,” but meant for the attorney general’s office to “slowly increase pressure until the local entity took sufficient remedial measures to comply with the statute.”

“The attorney general is having such a difficult time making the statute fit their cause of action, because the legislative intent of the legislation is far different from the attorney general’s intent in bringing the cause of action,” Marx’s attorneys wrote. “The attorney general seems to see the statute as authorizing some ‘punishment’ for the citizens of a particular county — perhaps for electing a local entity the attorney general does not like.”

Marx’s attorneys once again asked the court to dismiss the case against the sheriff, saying the issue was rendered moot after the Feb. 4 post was deleted and further arguing Bird has made no claim upon which the court can provide legal relief.

A hearing in the case is currently scheduled for 9 a.m.

Friday, July 18 in room 320 of Polk County’s historic courthouse, located at 500 Mulberry St. in Des Moines.

Things to know when a customer spends Chamber Dollars The “pay to” line should specify the name of the business collecting the Chamber Dollars. Sometimes users may leave this line blank if they are unsure of what to write.

Like traditional checks, businesses receiving Chamber Dollars for more than the total purchase amount are responsible for issuing cash back. Businesses should not return Chamber Dollars to the customer.

Businesses which have a policy on providing change on check transactions are encouraged to communicate that policy to customers before purchase.

Chamber Dollars are kept by the cashier/store. They are valid checks and should be deposited at the bank in the same way as personal checks from any customer.

Chamber Dollars do not expire. Some area business owners may remember a time when Chamber Dollars did expire but, as of 2019, Chamber Dollars issued no longer carry an expiration date. However, if they are damaged or won’t process for any reason, businesses or customers may bring them to the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce to be exchanged for new ones.

Each envelope containing Chamber Dollars includes an insert listing the above information as well as a list of partic-

ipating Chamber Dollar members. The list is also available online at decorahareachamber. com/community/chamber-dollars. Businesses interested in accepting Chamber Dollars may contact hannah@decorahareachamber.com.

Things to know when buying Chamber Dollars Chamber Dollars can only be purchased at the Decorah Area Chamber, located at 507 W. Water St. in Decorah. The chamber accepts cash, check or card.

Purchases with a credit card will be charged a credit card fee on top of the face value of the purchase.

Smaller denominations, such as $5, $10, $20 or $25, often work better for both the store and the customer. Such amounts often allow stores to more easily provide cash back, and they allow customers to more easily patronize multiple businesses.

Bures to discuss ‘Pushing the River’ Minnesota author Frank Bures will return to Decorah to give an author presentation and Q&A session followed by a book signing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 15 in the Pulpit Rock Brewing events room at 207 College Dr. in Decorah. The public is invited to this free event sponsored by the Oneota Valley Literary Foundation, with support from Pulpit Rock Brewing and Dragonfly Books.

In “Pushing the River,” Bures explores the triumphs and

dangers of life on the water through gripping true stories.

From a harrowing escape from the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire to a long-lost canoe race that shaped modern paddling, Bures captures the river’s power to challenge, inspire and transform.

Bures is a writer whose work has appeared in “Harper’s,” “Outside,” “The Atlantic,” and other publications. His stories have been included in “The Best American Travel Writing” anthologies and won oth-

er awards. He is the author of “The Geography of Madness,” editor of” Under Purple Skies,” and producer of audio history tours for VoiceMap. He grew up on the Mississippi River in Winona, Minnesota, and lives in Minneapolis.

This event is part of Dragonfly Books and the Oneota Valley Literary Foundation’s author event series, which brings writers of all genres to northeast Iowa to lead in conversations about literature and writing.

Echoes farm, consisting of 123 acres, was sold for $18,819. …More FRONT PAGE NEWS from 1925 – Mrs. O.A. Natvig of near Saude has fallen and broken her left hip while visiting at the home of her sister in Glenwood Township. She will be in the Decorah hospital for about six weeks, after which she may be able to be removed. …The paving from East Broadway from Williams Street to the front of the H.C. Hjerleid home east to Montgomery Street at the hospital will be extended. This will give a paved street from the City Park clear through on Broadway to the fairgrounds. …The practice of driving up and down the main street of town should be stopped. There are some drivers who like to drive up and down the street when the traffic is congested, and they should be reminded that the business streets of town are NOT boulevards for joyriders. The drivers have no concept of the rights and privileges of others! …Train excursions to Clear Lake are planned this summer.

Special round trip fares from Decorah are $1.95. The train leaves Decorah at 8 a.m., and departs Clear Lake for home at 7:30 p.m. The attractions at Clear Lake include free picnic grounds, band concerts, boating, bathing and fishing, Bayside Amusement Pak, vaudeville, baseball and more. The train is

operated by the Chicago Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway. …The largest rattlesnake killed in Winneshiek County in many years was killed by the two young Abrahamson brothers in Bluffton Township on a Tuesday afternoon recently. The snake measured 6 feet and had 18 rattles. The snake met its demise in the potato patch of Martin Abrahamson.

90

YEARS AGO: 1935 – Alice’s Beauty Shop (located over the Bake-Rite Bakery) has installed a new air-cooling fan system for the customers having their beauty work done. Stop in today for a permanent wave - $1.35. …A twister caused an estimated $10,000 in damage at the Henry Knoke farm. The storm roared through their yard like a truck loaded with big tin cans.

While the house didn’t show much damage, it was badly twisted up. The barn was demolished, the roof was ripped form the house and blown about 200 yards, two hogs outside the barn were killed and six or seven others were crippled. They also lost one cow. The family found refuge from the storm in the cellar. Sidebar to the story – three other cows on the farm were given a free ride and were found on the opposite side of a barbed wire fence. They had been grazing on the farmyard before the tornado struck, and were picked up by the winds and

continued from page 4 hurled over the fence, landing in the mud, which broke their fall.

They were not hurt. …The Home Ice Cream Factory at 301 West Water Street has installed an ice cream maker. Price for a quart is 35 cents.

Some other fancy flavors may be added. J.C. McArthur is proprietor. …At present time, there are 37 children enrolled in the Emergency Preschool here in town.

All of the children come from relief or needy homes. There is a need for items to supply the preschool, including a toilet, books, and army cots for naptime. …Goetsch’s Café, specializing in serving hamburgers and other sandwiches, is opening today in a location formerly occupied by Severson’s Cave on East Water Street. Nearly 40 persons can be served at the booths. The café will be open until midnight or later. In addition to serving foods, he’ll sell beer, soft drinks, milk, coffee, ice cream and tobacco. …J.C. McArthur reports that a high price of $67 was paid for cows and as much as $125 for horses at the auction sale at his farm north of Decorah last week. A fine crowd attended. …Professor and Mrs. Wallace Moen are now residing in Decorah. He previously had charge of the band at Waverly High School, and he will soon assume full charge of Decorah High School musical classes this fall.

Ribbon Cutting

Celebration!

Congratulations to the The Landing Market CELEBRATING

5

YEARS

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

Congratulations to The Landing Market on their five year anniversary! Pictured are The Landing Market managers and small business owners who are located in The Landing. They were joined by chamber ambassadors Lashelle Evans, Chris Hicks, Maureen Duncklee, Joe Hammel, Marcia Madrigal, Dallas Steffen, Joanie Rollins, and Heather Benzing.

PUBLIC NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS/NEWS

10 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

City of Decorah Council Joint Work Session with Decorah Park & Recreation Commission Monday, June 30, 2025, at 5:45 PM Decorah City Council Chambers The City of Decorah Council Work Session with the Decorah Park Board was held Monday, June 30, 2025, at 5:45 PM at Decorah City Council Chambers and electronically.

Present: Kirsten Olson, Steve Zittergruen, Randy Schissel, Cody Whittle, Emily Neal, Christopher Miculinich, City Manager Travis Goedken, City Clerk Keri Sand. Park and Recreation members: Rich Gaard, Kathy Bakken, Benji Nichols, Brian Fuhrmann, and Zach Kerndt City Council discussed the equestrian rules that had been approved by the Decorah Park and Recreation Commission for the Decorah Parks. Councilman Zittergruen stated that he wanted to focus on keeping the integrity of the trail instead of certain date range that allows horses to ride, letting trail users to use common sense of when to ride as not to damage the trails. Many council members agreed that the impact on the trails is not the same as hikers or bikers due to the size of the animal and agreed that there should be specific rules for horseback riding. Councilman Schissel brought forth the idea of having Van Peenen Park for horseback riding since there are so many other trails for bicyclists and hikers. Neal spoke regarding the size of group allowed to ride together. Neal agreed with the rule allowing 4 horses in a group to ride together, anything more than that would trigger the need for a special event permit.

Neal felt that when families are hiking together that they should not have to wait for 20 horses to ride by before they are able to continue their hiking. General consensus was to have allow horses on five of the eight trails in the Van Peenen Park with the current rules in place for the rest of this season and then things can be reevaluated after the season to see how things went before making any further changes.

City Manager, Travis Goedken, went over the proposed base bid package that will be sent out for bids for the Decorah Athletic Complex. The base bid package will include two baseball diamonds and eight pickleball courts. The remaining potential items for the athletic complex will be bid as alternatives as a way of keeping the costs in line with the amount of money that will be raised through fund raising. The Council discussed and agreed to go forward with this method.

Meeting adjourned at 7:49 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader July 10, 2025

June 23, 2025 The special council meeting was called to order by Mayor Borowski at 6:02 PM. The meeting was held at the Decorah Council Chambers and electronically.

Members present: Mayor Borowski, Randy Schissel, Cody Whittle, Christopher Miculinich (Zoom), Emily Neal, City Manager Travis Goedken, and City Clerk Keri Sand Absent: Brent Parker, Steve Zittergruen, Kristen Olson Chase Holien with WHKS Engineering spoke regarding the College Drive Bridge Improvements. Holien updated Council on the design of the bridge.

Schissel made a motion to approve Resolution 3578 setting public hearing on July 21, 2025 for the Decorah 2025 College Drive Bridge Improvements Project. Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Schissel, Neal, Whittle, Miculinich. Nays: None. Motion carried.

No further discussion had due to lack of quorum at 6:31 PM Meeting ended at 6:31 PM Keri Sand City Clerk Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader July 10, 2025

Board Minutes June 30, 2025 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am June 30, 2025 with Kelsay, Vick, Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order.

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to give road updates.

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

Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Vermace to adopt resolution 25-44, authorizing transfers to the road fund for FY26. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Complete resolution is on file in the County Auditor’s office.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to adopt resolution 25-45, appropriating FY26 funds to the various departments and officers at 100% of the budgeted amount except for Public Health at $350,000. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Complete resolution is on file in the County Auditor’s office.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to adopt resolution 25-46, reappropriating $5,000 from Rural Waste to Recycling. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Complete resolution is on file in the County Auditor’s office.

Andy Van Der Maaten, County Attorney, met with the Board to discuss county issues.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to enter closed session to examine the bid and determine possible next steps on the sale of the former HHS property. Closed session is authorized under IAC 21.5(1)(j). Motion carried unanimously and the closed session was held. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to re-enter open session. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Faldet to not take any action to schedule a public hearing on the sale of the property at this time. Motion carried with Kelsay, Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet voting aye; and Vick voting nay.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, July 7, 2025.

Motion carried unanimously.

Benjamin D. Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Claims 06-30-2025 General Basic Fund District II Treasurer’s Assoc, Registration ..................................... 50.00 Elan Financial Services, Payment .... 125.03 Jayne Schultz, Reimbursement.........517.96 Water Testing Grant Fund Elan Financial Services, Payment ...... 94.50 Rural Services Basic Fund Decorah Leader, Publications .............40.09 Winn Co Treasurer, Services ........16600.00 Secondary Road Fund Franzen Sales & Service, Parts.......1600.00 County Assessor Agency Fund Tanner Imoehl, Reimbursement ....... 219.20 Emergency Management Comm Verizon Wireless, Cell Service ........... 40.01 Winneshiek Co Health Ins Fund Midwest Group Benefits, Health Insurance ........................ 24798.26 Grand Total ...................................44085.05 Decorah (Iowa) Leader July 10, 2025 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING JURISDICTION OF CITY OF DECORAH IMPROVEMENTS TO COLLEGE DRIVE Public Hearing on Proposed Contract Documents and Estimated Costs for Improvement.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: You are hereby given notice that a public hearing will be held by the City Council of Decorah on the proposed contract documents and proposed improvements for the Improvements to College Drive at its meeting at 5:45 P.M. on July 21, 2025, at City Hall in Decorah, Iowa.

The public hearing may be attended virtually using the meeting information provided in this notice and as posted in the City of Decorah City Council agenda.

The meeting can be joined virtually by computer or smartphone at: https://us02web.zoom.us/ j/82232345793?pwd=5CCBGIz4KIqkdaVyra8Vql3IzDcUC2.1 Meeting ID: 822 3234 5793 Passcode: 331542 The scope of the project includes Bridge & Street improvements including: Excavation Class 10, PCC Pavement, Bridge Repairs, Traffic Signal modifications, and miscellaneous work.

The project location(s) is as follows: On College Drive from 5th Avenue to Heivly Street and on Heivly Street from College Drive to Julian Street.; all in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa.

At the meeting the City Council will consider the plans, specifications, cost estimate, and contract proposals. The City Council will also act upon the contract proposals and decide whether to enter into a contract for the project improvements.

Any person(s) interested may attend the meeting for the purpose of expressing their opinion regarding the plans, specifications, cost estimate, or the contract proposals.

This Notice is given by authority of the City of Decorah.

Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader July 10, 2025

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission/ Regional Planning Affiliation 1 FFY 2026-2029 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (TIP) and 2025 UPDATED LONG-RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN (LRTP) The Transportation Policy Board for Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission (UERPC)/Regional Planning Affiliation 1 (RPA-1) will hold public hearings at its upcoming meeting to receive comments from the public on the draft RPA-1 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for federal fiscal years (FFY) 2026-2029, as well as the draft 2025 updated Long-range Transportation Plan (LRTP) for RPA-1. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at UERPC’s offices, located at 325 Washington Street in Decorah.

The RPA-1 TIP document identifies the multimodal transportation projects—street, transit, highway, bridge, planning, and pedestrian and bicycle facilities—on which state and federal funding will be used over the next four years within Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard, and Winneshiek Counties.

The RPA-1 LRTP is intended to guide transportation investments and policy in the five-county region in support of a transportation system that is safe for all users and modes, and that facilitates the efficient movement of people and goods. The plan includes a description of the region’s existing conditions; identifies current transportation challenges; anticipates potential future needs; and explores various strategies for addressing those challenges and needs. The plan is updated at least every five years and has a planning horizon of 25 years.

The draft FFY 2026-2029 TIP and draft 2025 LRTP are available for public review on UERPC’s website, www.uerpc.org. Written or verbal comments may be submitted prior to the public hearings to Aaron Detter, UERPC, 325 Washington Street, Decorah, IA 52101, by email at adetter@uerpc.org, or by phone at 563-419-6126. Comments must be received before July 23rd, 2025.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader July 10, 2025

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Law Enforcement

Orthopedics and sports medDecorah Police icine is expanding at WinnMed Department The Decorah Police Department with a second orthopedic surwas called at 1:56 p.m. Thursday, geon, James Voigtlander. Dr. July 3 to the intersection of HighVoigtlander will be joining Dr. way 9 and Old Stage Road for a Emily Connor, Jesse Butler and report of a two-vehicle collision John Evelsizer Olson one week which was blocking the road. each month to provide additionOfficers determined 90-yearold Marilyn Larson of Decorah al access to clinical and surgical had failed to yield while making orthopedic care to patients of all a lefthand turn from Old Stage ages.

Road onto Highway 9 and struck Hailing from California, Voia southbound vehicle being driven gtlander recently retired from by 22-year-old Mckenna Dutton serving as an orthopedist and of Black River Falls, Wisconsin.

James Voigtlander Neither driver was injured, but a in leadership roles for Kaipassenger in Larson’s vehicle was ser-Permanente in Roseville/ taken to the WinnMed emergency Sacramento, California, and he and nerves. department by ambulance for mi“I was introduced to this nor injuries. Decorah Police were currently provides orthopedic care to veterans at the VA Hos- unique opportunity through assisted on scene by the Winneshpital in Sacramento. He earned mutual acquaintances and con- iek County Sheriff’s Office, Winhis medical degree from Tulane nections,” Voigtlander said. nMed ambulance service, Don’s University School of Medicine “Though I officially retired Towing Service and bystanders. in New Orleans, Louisiana, from full-time orthopedic surAll people listed may face and completed his residency gery, I look forward to serv- charges and should be presumed year and internship in orthope- ing in new roles and locations, innocent until their case is redics from U.C. Davis School of meeting new people and sup- viewed through the legal process.

Medicine in Sacramento. Voigt- porting patients and practices in lander is board-certified by the meaningful ways.”

American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery. $1,000 SIGNING BONUS “I’ve been practicing adult FOR RENT and pediatric orthopedic surgery for 33 years with special For Rent: 1- & 2-bedroom apartments with appliances. Downtown Decorah. interests in joint replacements, Rent & utilities. NP. 563-379-0897. 23-tf-LD-9 trauma, wound care and reconEnjoy working outside and looking For Rent: 3-bedroom farmhouse. NP/NS. Appliances furnished. For more structive surgery,” Voigtlander Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953 for a change? We provide on the information contact 563-419-5262. 24-tf-DL-9 said. “At WinnMed, my pracwww.olsonexplosives.com job training! Class A or B CDL tice will include surgical and info@olsonexp.com desirable. No CDL, no problem, we For Rent: 2-bedroom apartment with garage and laundry. West Side Decorah. will help you get one. non-surgical musculoskeletal Equal Opportunity Employer NP/NS. 563-380-6712. 24-tf-DL-9 care and covering on-call referrals. Our orthopedic team will For Rent: Commercial space. 109 Court Street, Decorah. Approximately cover any questions or concerns 300 square feet. $500/month. 563-380-2194. 28-2-LD-9 when I am not immediately For Rent: 3-bedroom house. All appliances furnished. NP/NS. 563-419available.”

Orthopedics and sports med- 5262. 28-7-LD-9 icine at WinnMed specializes in surgical hip, knee and shoulder replacements; arthroscopic HELP WANTED surgery of the knee, ankle and shoulder as well as sports medicine, hand surgery, pediatric surgery and fracture or trauma Part-Time Dedicated care for all ages. They work with orthopedic patients to Class A ROUTE prevent, diagnose and treat disorders of the musculoskeletal Seasonal part time CDL driver system, including bones, joints, for a 2 ½ day round trip from Decorah, IA to Quincy KY. Must ligaments, tendons, muscles Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953

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Northeast Iowa Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)

FULL TIME POSITIONS

Northeast Iowa RSVP is hiring a Full-time Volunteer Coordinator based in Decorah, serving Allamakee, Howard and Winneshiek Counties. Ideal candidates are collaborative, community-minded, and passionate about working with seniors engaged in$1,000 volunteer SIGNING service.

BONUS Qualifications: Minimum requirements: High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred experience: Working with nonprofits, volunteers, and older adults.

Required skills: Social media, MailChimp, Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, and dataworking entry. outside and looking Enjoy Position subject to post-offer physical including for a change?

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For more information and will a complete see www.decorahia.org or call 563-277-5181. Send application, resume, cover letter and a minimum of three Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953 professional references to: Deana Hageman, RSVP Director, 202 Winnebago St., www.olsonexplosives.com Decorah IA 52101 or rsvp@decorahlibrary.org. Applications will be accepted until info@olsonexp.com the position is filled. First review of applications will be July 14th. $18/hr and competitive benefit packageEqual including health, life, and dental insurance, vacation, sick Opportunity Employer leave, paid holidays and IPERS (Iowa Public Employee Retirement System).

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Orthopedic Surgery expands at WinnMed

Decorah High School seeks a part-time Vocal Music Collaborative Pianist to support our thriving music program. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in our Concert Choir and Viking Chorus classes, as well as during various rehearsals, concerts, and other music-related events. The pianist will work closely with the Vocal Music Teacher and students, providing essential support in enhancing the students’ musical skills.

Hours are part-time, averaging 6.5 hours per week at $30/hr.

Miscellaneous Safe Step. North America’s #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our

FREE shower package and $1600 • Accompany the Concert Choir (4th period), which includes 85-minute sessions SIGNING Off for a limited$1,000 time! Call today! BONUS on Tuesdays and Fridays, a 40-minute session on Wednesdays, and 30 minutes of preparation time. This totals approximately 4 hours per week.

Financing available. Call Safe Step • Accompany the Viking Chorus (1st period), which includes 40-minute sessions on 1-844-376-4154

MECHANICS

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a 40-minute every other week on Wednesdays, and 30 Seeking applicants forMondays and Thursdays, Tired of losing session miles and money minutes of preparation time. This totals approximately 2 - 2.5 hours per week. by waiting to load and unload?

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• Proven experience as a collaborative pianist, preferably within a school or choral setting.

• Knowledge of a wide range of musical styles and genres.

• Excellent sight-reading skills.

• Ability to quickly learn and perform new pieces of music.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

• A high degree of reliability and professionalism.

• Flexibility to accommodate the varying schedule of rehearsals and performances.

• A bachelor’s degree in music or a related field is preferred.

22-4-LD-12

Decorah High School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

COMMUNITY

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

The Second Empire historic brick home of Dale and Joleen McCarty provides a backdrop for an array of gardens included in the Town and Country Garden Club’s yard and garden tours during Nordic Fest this year. (Photo by Samantha Ludeking)

11

Canines compete at the county fair

Garden club to host trio of tours during Nordic Fest The Town and Country Garden Club will be sponsoring three yard and garden tours for the public during Nordic Fest.

The sites can be viewed from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, July 25 and from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, July 26. There is no charge, but freewill donations will be accepted and used for garden club projects. The club thanked the following residents for being on this year’s tour:

Scott and Ann Ulring’s yard at 117 N. Mill Street. (Photo submitted)

Scott and Ann Ulring 117 N. Mill St. Decorah The Ulrings designed their yard to complement the beauty of Vesterheim’s Heritage Park, which is located just across the

Amy Wrightsman’s yard at 209 Fifth Ave. (Photo submitted)

NOW HIRING PART-TIME CLINIC COORDINATOR

The Decorah Community Free Clinic is seeking an RN/LPN or medical administrator for part-time work (10-12 hours per month) as the Clinic Coordinator.

See Decorah Community Free Clinic FB site for full job description.

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Send resume and letter of interest to: decorahfreeclinic.com

Are you looking for a new career?

Registered Nurse -code-

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For a complete list of benefits and to apply, visit wellingtonplacedecorah.com/careers or call Leah Benzing at 563-382-9691

street. More than 100 sun-loving perennial flowers, shrubs and trees were planted in gardens surrounding the house, the bordering front and back patios and the fire pit. A pathway meanders through a grove of quaking aspen on the property.

Dale and Joleen McCarty 709 East Main St. Decorah A Second Empire historic brick home provides a backdrop for an array of gardens highlighted by several varieties of hydrangeas mixed with colorful perennials and potted annuals. A bur oak provides shade for hostas, astilbe and more, while sunny areas flourish with hydrangeas, weigela and heirloom peonies.

Amy Wrightsman 209 Fifth Ave. Decorah Wrightsman experiments using colorful flower pots to enhance her porch, deck and landscaping along with various perennials and annual plantings. Her house, built by T.W. Burdick in the 1860s, features a wraparound porch and large back yard.

Fire station concrete continued from front

MEMBER ACCOUNTS REPRESENTATIVE Allamakee-Clayton Electric Cooperative is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Member Accounts Representative.

The Co-op invites qualified candidates to submit a cover letter and résumé

by Monday, July 14, 2025 at noon. A complete position description and a link to apply is available under the "Your Co-op" tab at acrec.com. Specific questions can be directed to ddecker@acrec.coop.

229 Highway 51 PO Box 715 Postville, IA 52162

Allamakee-Clayton Electric Cooperative is Equal Opportunity Employer

28-2-DL-12

This position reports to the Director of Finance and Administrative Services and is primarily responsible for providing exceptional member support; processing payments and managing collection and disconnection procedures. Qualified candidates must have a minimum of a high school diploma; prior bookkeeping/clerical and customer service experience is a plus. Must possess and retain a valid driver’s license, be insurable under the Cooperative auto policy and pass a pre-employment drug screening.

The Winneshiek County 4-H Dog Agility Show kicked off the Winneshiek County Fair Sunday afternoon, July 6, as nearly 30 dogs jumped, climbed and wove their way around the show arena at the Winneshiek County fairgrounds in Decorah. More than 20 Winneshiek County 4-H members worked with the dogs, training them to participate in a variety of agility and jumping competitions.

(Photos by Denise Lana)

out a portion of the new pedestrian trail at the lower portion of the apron,” Goedken added.

Decorah City Council member Emily Neal expressed support for moving ahead and spending funds to fix the entire apron, even if a portion of the new concrete will need to be removed and replaced during future remodeling plans. City Council member Brent Parker seconded Neal’s suggestion.

“This is a big project, and there’s a lot of stuff going on here,” Parker said. “We’ve got to get it right the first time. I feel going through this project, getting it right and doing a good job with the grade … when it’s all done, and we look back, it will be a good move.”

Ultimately, the city council agreed to ask the Heivly Street project’s contractor for options regarding the replacement of the building’s entire west-side apron. Goedken said he would do so as soon as possible to ensure construction along Heivly Street continues without delay.

Academic Achievements Allen announces recent graduates, Dean’s List

Allen College held its graduation ceremony at the Waterloo Convention Center on Friday, May 9. The ceremony celebrated graduates from both the School of Nursing and the School of Health Sciences. Janet Hunter of Decorah graduated with a Master of Science degree in nursing. Lisa Zheng of Decorah graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Health Sciences in medical laboratory science.

Both Hunter and Zheng were also named to the Allen College’s spring 2025 Dean’s List, as was Kylie Wurzer of Waucoma, who is studying radiography.

Area students graduate from Wartburg College

Wartburg College awarded diplomas to 318 students during spring commencement on Saturday, May 24. Among them were Alyssa Halvorson of Cresco, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, Walker Hermeier of Waukon, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in engineering, Emma Houdek of Spillville, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in actuarial science and business administration, Abigail Milburn of Decorah, who graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in biology and Spanish, Kade Munkel of Cresco, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in health and fitness studies, and Reid Wiley of Cresco, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in American

history education. Wartburg College, a four-year liberal arts college internationally recognized for community engagement, enrolls about 1,500 students.

Moonen named to University of Alabama Spring President’s List

Maxwell Moonen of Ossian was named to The University of Alabama President’s List for the spring 2025 semester. A total of 14,289 students enrolled during the semester were named to either the dean’s list — with an academic record of 3.5 or above — or the president’s list — with an academic record of 4.0.

The UA dean’s and president’s

lists recognize full-time undergraduate students. The lists do not apply to graduate students or undergraduate students who take less than a full course load.

Headington graduates from Mount Mercy University

Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids recently released the names of students who graduated in May. Among them were Annika Headington of Decorah who graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree. Mount Mercy University offers baccalaureate and graduate education to more than 1,400 enrolled students.

SPORTS

12 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Lady Trojans come up short to Saints in opening round

Enthusiastic runners of all ages participate in annual Pulpit to Pulpit 5K fundraiser

Runners of all ages, including several families with younger children and a dog or two, enjoyed participating in Friday’s annual Pulpit to Pulpit 5K run. Proceeds from the event went to the Greater Area Pantry in Calmar and Northeast Iowa Trey Neubauer, age 4, son of Annie and Evan Neubauer of RSVP. (Photo by Zach Jensen) Decorah finished near the top of the pack in the 1K race, which he ran with 6-year-old brother Tyson Neubauer. (Photo by Denise Lana)

Trojan senior Layni Schuchhardt snares a high pitch during Monday’s first round regional game versus Saint Ansgar.

(Photo by Becky Walz)

Jayden Heins, age 6, Harper Herman, age 4, and Paxton Heins, age 3, cheered for relatives running the 5K. (Photo

by Denise Lana)

By Bob Fenske editor@nhtrib.com Runners showed their enthusiasm during the annual Pulpit to Pulpit 5K run on July 4 in Decorah. Participants ran from the Pulpit Rock Brewery, west along Fifth Avenue to the Pulpit Rock Campground, east on Dug Road and back to the brewery via the College Drive bridge. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Runner #912, Adrian Swanson, enjoys a canine kiss after the race. Swanson came in second overall in the 5K race, with a finishing time of 16:52. (Photo by Denise Lana)

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left to right) wide as (from r, Smiles were Annika Schmelze royalty last week.

2024 Fair Queen Schmitt haled this year’s , Eden Scheidel, Princess Autumn k County Fair Alayna Hageman Jerikah Dodd and 2023 Fair The Winneshie Brynn Storhoff, 2023 Fair Queen Addison Wicklund, Ellie Knutson, Weis)

by Roz 2024 Fair Princessmidway’s carousel. (Photo the gathered near

County fair se comes to a clo

Local (521) ..................12 mo ............$59

Thursday, July

18, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue

29

www.decorahleader.co

Decorah, Iowa

Nordic Fest offi cials honor pair for commu nity roles m

13. The Saturday, July stand came to a close nightly grand k County Fair to not only the PRCA The Winneshie crowds of visitors track racing and the Barnes comfair drew large as dirt Families and events, such competitions. goats, concerts and they led cows, to the local livestock exhibitors as variety of Rodeo, but also cheered on young Families also had a wide munity members arenas. carnival midinto their various the petting zoo, kiddy tractor, swine and sheep including in elsewhere, events to take of fair foods both l way and plenty Additiona savory and sweet. available at photos are . ader.com decorahle Leader staff) (Photos by Decorah

email: editor@dec

It takes a village to put on Decorah’s annual Nordic Fest each year, and two members of that proverbial village their were cited forare being honored at this cerk County Fair year’s celebration opening of all the 2024 Winneshie the fair during things Scandinavi Honorees at s service to presented to, an July plaques were 25-27. ents and continuou

Decorah achievem of the Fair”

by Dan Bohr; 9.The “Friends and operated emonies July Falck ConHoltan Standard, owned ; and Steve Grouws (from left) Dan’s Justin Gullickson Falck.selected represented by as Skal operated by Steve Bank & Trust, recipient ion, owned and crete Construct

The 2024 Nordic

Fest

Skål Recipient is Jeni DistinguishedHoltan Grouws of The 2024 Decorah.

Organizers pre- said Award was the Fest Skål ServiceRecipient is an individual fair longtime or individuals sentededtoexceptional who have and continuing SacGary support of the yearly demonstratSince 2009, Holtan volunteer celebration.

Pre- Grouws has contributed (at ofright).

Nordic Fest quitne,sound to the Dancer award wasthrough integral roles – serving spirit and senting the director for 10 years, a Nordic Fest board as a Nordic six-plus years, Mark and as a musician member for Fair —President — with three different 2024 in theThe festival’s entertainment lineup Steffens. bands Holtan each of the last Grouws fient Achievem rst experienced 14 years.

Lifetime enthusiastic encouragem Nordic Fest in 1996, with was presented ent from her Award the Nordic parents to make thea group Dancers to — sure to see usly that compared posthumo was noted to of other festivals’ for being unique Ringdahl offerings and traditions.

Shirley from late the start, this year’s Impressed (Submitted) honoree later found to becoming Decorah. herself saying a Nordic Dancers

Jeni Holtan Grouws

yes director, following Ella’s successful audition to join her daughter the group. Her also joined as a daughter Lillian member of the Nordic Dancer “I’m very proud orchestra.

Grouws said. “The to have been a part of that group,” Holtan Nordic Dancers really are special, Fest honorees and people continued on

page 6

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orahleader.com

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Youth learn life skills during 2024 cou nty fair

Young fair exhibitors walked side animals at the 2024 Winneshe by side with adults through the barns as they ik County Fair.

(Photo by Seth cared for their Boyes)

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR program specialist Winneshiek County with the said Winneshiek University ExtensionIowa State Youth Coordinato County 4-H Looping tire tracks in the r Ashley Horand Outgrass are one reach office, said Winneshiek gen. “That could be just helping of gering evidence the few lin- County is home somebody show to of or even just Winneshiek County this year’s clubs — serving a dozen 4-H coming to the children fair Fair. and experiin kin- encing The dergarten fair ended Saturday, the animals.” through 12th but orga- — grade nizers say the Horgen said the as well as several lessons young annual counfair participants of the Future Farmers chapters ty fair is an opportunity for learned during the the week-long ica who participate of Amer- young students event to showcase in the local last them a lifetime will likely county fair each projects which year. they’ve poured as they look toward the next work “We into for a majority have some chapter of their of the lives. that don’t necessarilyexhibitors live on 4-H a farm, Kendra Crooks, Youth 4-H youth periencebut they still get to exshowing livestock,” continued on page 3

Winneshiek Coun ty P&Z hosts publi for construction c hearing on reque of biodigester st near Ridgeway RNG, LLC, a Michigan-based renewable Agency

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

T THE

PROUD TO SUPPOR

WINNESHIEK COUNTY

FAIR

Pictured is a Novilla biodigester facility mitted) in West

info@aasehaugen.com 563-382-6521

om asehaugen.c

www.a Mon-Fri: 8:30AM-5:30PM Saturday: 8:30AM-12PM Sunday: Closed

1001 Short St.,

Decorah, IA

95 | 563-382-79

2024

SAKI KAWALimited Ridge®

and Built for work play while delivering A all-day comfort. 999cc game-changing er in-line four-cylind with engine paired automotive-inspired takes premium features to off-roading comfort new heights.

i.com decorah-kawasak

– the facilities natural gas compaare also posed ny, submitted Rural Ridgeway digester, where the rezoning ap- sometimes called may soon be plication anaerobic be the home of a digestion systems heated and stirred it would and hopes to construct new biodigester or anaerobic to produce facility. the new facility digesters. biogas consisting on land owned of 55 percent

by Craig Bohr A public hearing methane Novilla co-CEOs and Deb was held near Jared Wil- dioxide. and 45 percent carbon during a July the intersection Storlie, liams and Mark That biogas 9 Hill said the of 275th proposed would County Planning Winneshiek Street and Iowa facility, the compa- then be transported into Highway and Zoning the bioCommission meeting ny’s second in A biodigester contains 9.

Iowa, would pro- gas upgrading plant via a memto listen organisms micro- duce to the public’s brane, which separates approximately which break concerns about 1.5 million es. down gallons the gasrezoning a piece manure in an oxygen-free Natural gas is of renewable of property for then injected envi- gas per natural into the purpose of ronment, producing a year. pipeline, constructing one leaving behind renewable biodigesting what’s known All manure from facility. Novilla natural gas, according to in the industry two local the dairy herds U.S. Environme would Biodigester ntal Protection ed via pipeline be transportinto the procontinued on page 7

SettlementVisi may t us onliclaim calm ne - www coun .dec ty erre orah dnew in orde sparing persrip.com rap removal

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR

Decorah, IA 4 Ohio Street, 563-382-3603

Branch. (Sub-

County officials are moving forward with a possible settlement in a legal case

alleging the board acted im- torney properly by instructing Andrew Van Der him late to Maaten last year to remove proceed with materials he a settlement had placed in the county right offer in the case. Van Der Maatof way along a en said Monday portion

neshiek County “made it nearly impossible for regular traffic, including delivery

stones typically placed to curtail erosion

Peel began

— as that the details discussions of 360th of vehicles, to from the unpermittedstemming Street. enter his private the potential settlement er materials along well as oth- board of supervisors with the drive and resinstallaing and a portion of artion of erosion around en’t available, The county’s weld control measures but he hopes the idence” prior to the summer the rural road without seeking the same time Fitch lodged defense attorProv iding along a rural road. ney denied a number matter will be her of 2023. His the proper permits complains, and resolved within ces against of Peel’s Peel asked that to do so. a the unpermittedpetition argued Peel’s petition allegations servi Homeowner Jeffrey matter of weeks. and installation of the board went on to say the county consider vacating Peel filed lies a petition erosion control a an adjacent against the Winnesh- in a filing earlier this year, gas supp property owner portion of 360th Street — measures was iek County Board the board of supervisors and A rocky road po“necessary for named Mary Fitch tentially making area the Supervisubmitted a a portion of voted Driftofles unanimously last use that is required day to day complaint to in mid-Decem Peel alleged the 360th Street to sors ber of 2023,

thorize Winnesheikweek to auCounty At-

‘Drive harder’:

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

in his December petition that the 360th Street in condition of northern Win-

the county in for a resi- summer dence.” of 2023 regarding the “the alleged obstruction The landowner’ ” limited a states he placed s own filing tenant farmer’s riprap — large access to nearby farmland. The petition notes

Peel’s

a private road. petition questioned

Unpermitted road

Decorah’s Hov den breaks 176 career

continued on

work

page 6

his car on a trailer, I thought ‘That kid will never make it,’” National Championships.

So, said Les Hovden, Decorah’s Dan between the both Dan’s father, of them, their been racing for Hovden has who owns the two-stall racing NAPA Auto 16 years, and garage is filled Ave. 172nd the 31-year-old 2343store in Decorah. “But, Parts not just with tires is and spare he’s parts but his way to winning already on done alright.”

Decorah countless his first national title this over-sized winners’trophies and The younger 1 year. Hovden(563) 382-898 Hovden startchecks. won the B-Mod ed racing hobby “The last few main event July stock in 2008, years, I’ve just 9, during the and in 2013, Summit USRA he switched to been giving my trophies to kids Weekly Racing B-Mods.SINCE 1939 that come down SUCCESS Series in ER event at the ED the races,” Hovden the pit after “My TO CUSTOM Winneshiek DEDICAT Raceway in Todd dad used to help out said. “They Decorah. The enjoy them a and Scott Halverson race marked his lot more. I gave in 175th career our garage at win, and three home, and that Tuesday night’s trophy to Jackdays later, he earned his 176th got my brother into it,” he said. son Roney.” win when he took “And, whatever While many racers my brother did, the are just flag in West Union. checkered I wanted to do too.”

Hovden “The first time Hovden said he went to load Mitch has won his brother Left to right are eight USRA 2024 Winneshie continued on k County Fair page 3 ka Schmelzer, Dan and Princess Addison Jade Hovden, his 175 th career Wicklund, Fair Josh Hageman win the night Queen Anniand Les Hovden of July 9 at the after Dan had Winneshiek Raceway earned in Decorah. (Submitted )

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It wasn’t the ending to the season that Turkey Valley obviously wanted, but the Trojans did not go quietly into the sunset.

Down 5-0 to St. Ansgar in the first round of the Class 1A regional tournament, Turkey Valley responded with a stirring comeback that came up just short in a 5-3 loss to the Saints.

“Obviously, we wanted to win, so in that regard, sure there’s some disappointment,” Turkey Valley coach Anthony Troyna said after his team closed out the regular season with an 11-20 mark. “At the same time, the way our girls responded, the way they battled, you know I can’t be unhappy.

Give us another inning or two and we win that game.”

For a while, it looked like Monday’s playoff opener was going to be a classic pitcher’s duel as the Trojans’ Annika Bodensteiner and the Saints’ Lexi Juhl took control.

St. Ansgar scored one run in the fourth and held that 1-0 lead into the sixth, when the Saints appeared to take command as they scored four runs, all unearned, to take what seemed like a commanding lead.

“When the girls came off the field, we said we had to go one pitch at a time, one batter at a time,” Troyna said. “A lot of teams, after an inning like that, would roll over, but that’s not the culture we’re trying to build here.”

That culture is making inroads when it comes to Turkey Valley softball as the Trojans had a response.

Madi McDanel led off the bottom of the sixth inning with a double, and senior Morgan Vsetecka put the Trojans on the board with a two-run home run. Turkey Valley wasn’t done though, as Makinley Lutgen kept the rally going with a solid single. A sacrifice bunt by Brynlee Hayek moved Lutgen into scoring position and Boden-

steiner’s two-out single made it 5-3 before Juhl was finally able to get out of the inning.

Turkey Valley did get a twoout single from McDanel in the seventh inning, but Juhl was able to escape unscathed to give the Saints a trip to the regional quarterfinals, where they played top-ranked Clarksville on Wednesday night.

Bodensteiner was solid for much of the night. Yes, the junior gave up eight hits and walked three, but save for the sixth inning, she was able to work out of trouble.

The Trojans opened the season 3-9 but rebounded to put themselves, at least for a while, in contention for the Upper Iowa Conference title. Turkey Valley ended up finishing fourth in the conference with a 9-7 mark.

Monday’s game ended the prep careers of three seniors — Vsetecka, Layni Schuchhardt and Autumn Maklenburg — and Troyna said he was appreciative of their leadership both on and off the field.

Still, the Trojans have the potential to welcome back seven girls who started Monday’s game.

“That’s the key,” Troyna said Tuesday morning. “We could have a lot back next year as long as everyone comes back out, which can be tough with summer sports. But, like we told the girls last night, we are definitely on the right track. ... I know we were hoping for more than 11 or whatever wins we had, but the improvement we saw, the buyin we saw, if we keep everyone out, we can take that next step next year.”

T. VALLEY 1, SUMNER-FRED 15 Annika Bodensteiner (LP) – 1IP, 6R, 3H, 2BB, 2K; Raelen Manderfield (RP) – 3IP, 9R, 6H, 4BB, 2K 1B – Kendall Kuennen 2; Morgan Vsetecka 1; Brynlee Hayek 1; A. Bodensteiner 1; RBI – Kuennen 1 T. VALLEY 3, ST. ANSGAR 5 Bodensteiner (LP) – 7IP, 5R, 9H, 3BB, 1K HR – Vsetecka 1; 2B – Madi McDanel 1; 1B – Kuennen 1; McDanel 1; Makinley Lutgen 1; Hayek 1; Bodensteiner 1; RBI – Vsetecka 2; Bodensteiner 1

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Stretching out for the low throw and out at first is Madi McDanel as the Saints runner comes up just short of safety.

(Photo by Becky Walz)

SPORTS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

13

Trojans move on to next round with win over Maquoketa Valley

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com Logan Busta was clutch, and the Turkey Valley Trojans knocked their runners on home when they got on base.

Dan Stepan’s baseball squad won a postseason contest for the second consecutive season on Saturday afternoon in Delhi with a 4-2 victory over the host Maquoketa Valley Wildcats in the first round of Class 1A district play.

“It was a good quality win.

The kids played well. We jumped out to that lead – that’s huge. You never know how tournament games are going to go,” said Stepan. “The kids see what we’ve worked for and what we’ve done. It was the right stuff.”

Originally slated to be an evening tilt, the threat of severe weather bumped up TV’s elimination contest to 11 a.m.

TV (10-18) beat the rain and the Wildcats. Although TV only

mustered four hits that day, they were of the timely variety.

Turkey Valley strung together three hits in the opening frame – highlighted by RBI singles by juniors Hunter Kruse and Alex Hanson – to stake claim to a 2-0 lead after one-half inning of play. J.D. Kruse, another of Stepan’s talented juniors, led off the third and scored on a Hanson sac fly.

That run support was all Busta needed as he struck out eight in his two-hitter. The only runs MV (12-13) would score came in the third and fifth innings.

Leadoff walks by “Mack Valley” would come around to score in those frames on an RBI double and a passed ball.

“He was in control. That’s kind of what you look for in a guy that’s been our district starter for three years,” said Stepan.

“I’m not surprised with what he did. I kind of expect what he did. He’s got the ability to do that stuff, and he stepped up and pitched us to victory.”

Amazingly, no outs recorded by TV came on the ground in Busta’s complete-game gem. Busta’s eight strikeouts, a picked off runner in the third inning and 12 fly ball outs comprised the punch-outs. Stepan didn’t know if he had ever witnessed something like that in his 23 seasons coaching TV. “I’ve never done that in my career – not had something on the ground,” said Stepan.

The Trojans did not commit an error in the postseason con-

test.

TV would add an insurance run in the sixth when Jordan Kriener led off the inning with a walk, and he scored on a passed ball.

“When we got people on base – they scored,” said Stepan.

TV took on a familiar foe in Kee High during the district semifinal Tuesday at Shooky Fink Field in New Albin. TV was swept by Clayton Ridge (917, 9-9) on Tuesday, July 1 by scores of 8-3 and 4-3. The Trojans also lost to Clarksville, 2-1, in the regular season finale last Wednesday night.

T. VALLEY 3, CLAYTON RIDGE 8 Cale Langreck (LP) – 5IP, 6R, 8H, 2BB, 4K; Nicholas Bernhard (RP) – 0IP, 2R, 2BB; Hunter Kruse (RP) – 1IP, 1H, 1BB, 2K 1B – Jordan Kriener 2; Alex Hanson 1; Langreck 1; RBI – Logan Busta 2; J. Kriener 1; SB – JD Kruse 2; Hanson 1 T. VALLEY 3, CLAYTON RIDGE 4 L. Busta (LP) – 5-1/3IP, 2R, 3H, 3BB, 4K; H. Kruse (RP) – 1IP, 2R, 2H, 3BB, 1K 2B – JD Kruse 1; 1B – L. Busta 2; Hanson 1; RBI – JD Kruse 1; L. Busta 1; J. Kriener 1; SB – L. Busta 2; Jayden Rausch 1; JD Kruse 1 T. VALLEY 1, CLARKSVILLE 2 JD Kruse (LP) – 5IP, 2R, 5H, 5BB, 8K; H. Busta (RP) – 1IP, 1K 1B – L. Busta 1; J. Kriener 1; Langreck 1; RBI – J. Kriener 1; SB – JD Kruse 1 T. VALLEY X, MAQ. VALLEY X L. Busta (WP) – 7IP, 2R, 2H, 3BB, 8K 1B – JD Kruse 1; L. Busta 1; H. Kruse 1; Hanson 1; RBI – Hanson 2; H. Kruse 1

Jayden Rausch (far above) tracks down a pop fly for Turkey Valley during Saturday’s district contest in Delhi. Trojan junior Alex Hanson (above) zeroes in on the ball as he looks to tag the Maquoketa Valley baserunner at first base Saturday. (Photos courtesy of Leah Kruse)

SW softball wraps up regular season

BY BECKY WALZ SPORTS EDITOR Having finished second in the Upper Iowa Conference standings, the South Winn softball team (19-18, 14-2 UIC) wrapped up the regular season Thursday at Oelwein (14-11) with a 3-0 loss.

The Warriors gave up two runs in the third and one in the fifth in the low-scoring contest.

South Winn had seven hits in the contests including a pair

by Bailey Kuennen. Adrienne Winings, Britney Hageman, Caylie Adam, Alyssa Holthaus and Alyssa Timp all tagged the ball once.

Aubree Gesing twirled for the Warriors, suffering the loss with a pair of strikeouts.

Postseason begins Having a first-round bye, the Warriors opened Class 2A regional action Wednesday at North Butler (15-11). The outcome of the contest was unavailable at press time; however, if South Winn won the Warriors will travel to Beckman Catholic Friday, July 11 to battle the winner of the Beckman

Warrior southpaw Aubree Gesing twirled against Oelwein last week, recording a pair of strikeouts. (Photo by Becky Walz) Catholic and Denver quarterfinal at 7 p.m. The regional final will be played at 7 p.m. Monday, July 14. The highest remaining ranked team from the final IGHSAU tallies will host.

SOUTH WINN 0, OELWEIN 3 Aubree Gesing (LP) – 7IP, 3R, 6H, 1BB, 2K 1B – Bailey Kuennen 2; Adrienne Winings 1; Britney Hageman 1; Caylie Adam 1; Alyssa Holthaus 1; Alyssa Timp 1

Viking freshman first baseman Ethan Kuennen snaps his glove closed and the ball ahead of a Clear Lake runner Thursday. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Vikings prep for postseason

BY BECKY WALZ SPORTS EDITOR

Final preparations are under way for a postseason run as the Decorah baseball team (22-7, 16-0 NEIC) wrapped up its final full week of games 4-2.

Decorah had one final regular season game Tuesday as the host to Waterloo West. The outcome of the game was unavailable at press time.

The Vikings will open the postseason Friday, July 11 at home as they host Maquoketa in the first round Class 3A Substate 4 game at 7 p.m.

Finishing NEIC There was little slowing the Vikings down at Charles City (1-24, 1-15 NEIC) Tuesday, July 1 as Decorah wrapped up the NEIC portion of the season with a perfect 16-0 mark and a pair of 12-1 victories.

In the first 12-1 game, the Vikings jumped on the board with two runs in the first, combining a Kasen Tyler single and Mason Avila double with a sac fly to centerfield by Kaden Alstad.

Following a pair of scoreless innings by Decorah and one Comet run in the third, the Vikings sent 10 to the batter’s box in the fourth, scoring five times.

Decorah continued to pull away with two in the sixth and three in the seventh.

The Vikings scattered 11 hits among seven batters with Tyler, Gavin Knutson and Caden Hubka rapping out multiple hits. Brayden Wemark threw six stanzas for the win with nine Ks. It took just five innings for Decorah to run up the 12-1 in the nightcap, scoring twice in the first, three runs in the second, six in the third and one in the fourth. Alstad and Trevor Kuennen had a pair of hits with T. Kuennen rapping out a triple in the second inning. Tyler poked out a double to start the game. Freshman Ethan Kuennen earned the win on the hill with four strikeouts.

Through the rain It was late into the evening Wednesday, July 2 when the Vikes swept by Waverly-Shell Rock (13-12) at home as rain invaded northeast Iowa once again. Decorah took game one 6-4 with the nightcap lasting into the darkness after the delay for the 9-8 Viking win.

The Go-Hawks struck for a run in the first and second, leaving Decorah trailing 2-0.

In the third the runs came. A walk issued to Hubka led to the Vikes’ first run, which scored on a Waverly-Shell Rock error.

Avila also crossed home plate on a sac fly by Gavin Knutson.

Taking 6-3 lead with four runs in the fifth, the Vikes gave up just one Go-Hawk run in the top of the seventh. Alstad threw for four frames for the win with Elliot Berland and Keaton Riehle throwing in relief.

Amid the rain, the Viking fans saw 10 batters step up to the plate to start game two with Decorah scoring four times and added another in the second inning. W-SR battled back with three in the second and two in the third to even the score 5-5 heading into the bottom of the third. Hit by a pitch at the plate, Henry Brynsaas utilized pass balls to move around the bases, scoring on Tyler’s single in the bottom of the third to give the Vikings the lead once again; however, W-SR responded in the fourth to keep the game knotted up. Three Viking runs in the bottom of fifth was just enough to get the job done as the Go-Hawks scored twice in the sixth and left two runners stranded in the seventh.

Monreal-Rice, K. Riehle.

Gavin Knutson and Rex LaFrentz threw for Decorah with Monreal-Rice earning the win.

Non-conference at home Friday’s home non-conference contest against Clear Lake (14-8) was called after the fifth due to rain showers with the visitors edging the Vikings 4-3.

The Lions’ leadoff batter Cayden Lester made quick work around the bases to score in the opening frame. In the third inning, Lester took advantage of a free base once again to score Clear Lake’s second run of the game and pull ahead 2-0.

The Lions added two more runs to their tally before the inning wrapped up. It was the fifth frame before the Vikings strung the hits together on two outs.

Lucas Wymer reached first on a fielder’s choice and later scored on Avila’s single. With Tyler on base after a walk as well, Alstad poked out a two-run double to give the Vikings a chance, trailing just 4-3. However, that was all the play to be had due to oncoming storms.

Close to the end Loading the buses Monday, the Vikings traveled to Class 4A Cedar Rapids Prairie (27-9) and struggled to get on the bases in the 12-1 loss.

Decorah had just four baserunners throughout the six-inning contest with Wemark scoring the lone run in the third following a double, a pass ball and a sac fly by Tyler.

DECORAH 12, CHARLES CITY 1 Brayden Wemark (WP) – 6IP, 1R, 3H, 3BB, 9K; Ethan Kuennen (RP) – 1IP, 2BB 2B – Kasen Tyler 1; Mason Avila 1; Gavin Knutson 1; 1B – Caden Hubka 2; Tyler 1; Kaden Alstad 1; Ga. Knutson 1; Cain Monreal-Rice 1; Trevor Kuennen 1; Elliot Berland 1; RBI – Alstad 2; Tyler 1; Avila 1; Ga. Knutson 1; Monreal-Rice 1; Hubka 1; Berland 1; Guston Pole 1; SB – Tyler 2; Ga. Knutson 2; Henry Brynsaas 2; Monreal-Rice 1; Hubka 1; Keaton Riehle 1; Berland 1; Grant Knutson 1 DECORAH 12, CHARLES CITY 1 E. Kuennen (WP) – 3-2/3IP, 1R, 3H, 2BB, 4K 3B – T. Kuennen 1; 2B – Tyler 1; 1B – Alstad 2; Avila 1; Ga. Knutson 1; T. Kuennen 1; Monreal-Rice 1; Wemark 1; Brynsaas 1; Hubka 1; RBI – Avila 3; T. Kuennen 3; Alstad 1; Wemark 1; Brynsaas 1; Hubka 1; Gr. Knutson 1; SB – Alstad 2; Tyler 1; E. Kuennen 1; Ga. Knutson 1; Monreal-Rice 1; Brynsaas 1; Hubka 1; Lucas Wymer 1 DECORAH 6, W-SR 4 Alstad (WP) – 4IP, 3R, 3H, 5BB, 4K; Elliot Berland (RP) – 2-1/3IP, 1R, 1H, 2BB, 1K; K. Riehle (RP) – 2/3IP, 1H 2B – T. Kuennen 1; 1B – Tyler 1; Avila 1; Alstad 1; Monreal-Rice 1; Brynsaas 1; Caden Hubka 1; RBI – Alstad 2; Tyler 1; Avila 1; Ga. Knutson 1; Brynsaas 1 DECORAH 9, W-SR 8 Monreal-Rice (WP) – 2IP, 2R, 3H, 1K; K. Riehle (SP) – 3IP, 5R, 7H, 1BB, 1K; Ga. Knutson (RP) – 1IP, 2BB, 2K; Rex LaFrentz (RP) – 1IP, 1R, 2BB, 1K 1B – Tyler 1; Avila 1; Alstad 1; Ga. Knutson 1; Monreal-Rice 1; RBI – T. Kuennen 2; Tyler 1; Alstad 1; Ga. Knutson 1; Monreal-Rice 1; Wemark 1; Brynsaas 1 DECORAH 3, CLEAR LAKE 4 2B – Alstad 2; 1B – Avila 1; Brynsaas 1; RBI – Alstad 2; Avila 1 DECORAH 1, CR PRAIRIE 12 K. Riehle (LP) – 1IP, 6R, 6H, 1BB; Monreal-Rice (RP) – 1/3IP, 4R, 4H, 2BB; Berland (RP) – 3IP, 2H, 4K; Guston Pole (RP) – 1IP, 2R, 1H, 1BB, 1K 2B – Wemark 1; RBI – Tyler 1

Kaden Alstad knocked out a two-RBI double in the fifth inning Thursday against Clear Lake. (Photo by Becky Walz)

One win continued from page 14 Luzum walked in the Vikings’ only other run of the game.

Throwing for the Vikes were Hjelle and Hadley Alexander.

While suffering the loss, Hjelle recorded her 500th career strikeout.

Decorah did just enough in the nightcap to win as six hits were

scattered about the eight-inning game. Bucksa scored for the Vikings in the top of the first and Pattison’s second inning single led to an RBI for Bucksa in the second. Having scored one in the first frame as well, North Linn knotted the game 2-2 in the bottom of the third. The two

squads stranded several baserunners throughout the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh innings before Decorah struck for a run in the top of the eighth. The Lynx threatened in the bottom of the same frame with an out tagged at home.

DECORAH 1, CRESTWOOD 4 Clara Hjelle (LP) – 6IP, 4R, 5H, 2BB, 6K 2B – Lauren Luzum 1; 1B – Liz Bucksa 1; RBI – Luzum 1 DECORAH 0, CRESTWOOD 6 Dylin Thompson (LP) – 2-2/3IP, 2R, 1H, 2BB; Hjelle (RP) – 3-1/3IP, 4R, 7H, 1BB, 3K 1B – Luzum 2; Bucksa 1; Jasera Tweten 1; SB – Bucksa 1

DECORAH 3, DIKE-NH 5 Hjelle (LP) – 6IP, 5R, 8H, 1BB, 5K 2B – Luzum 1; 1B – Bucksa 1; Tweten 1; Jenna Leuenberger 1; Kate Pattison 1; Olivia Brynsaas 1; Thompson 1; RBI – Bucksa 1; Luzum 1; SB – Luzum 1 DECORAH 2, NORTH LINN 10 Hjelle (LP) – 3-1/3IP, 8R, 8H, 1BB, 5K; Hadley Alexander (RP) – 1IP, 2R, 3H, 3BB

2B – Luzum 1; 1B – Brynsaas 2; Bucksa 1; Thompson 1; RBI – Bucksa 1; Luzum 1 DECORAH 3, NORTH LINN 2 Hjelle (WP) – 6IP, 3H, 1BB, 5K; Thompson (SP) – 2IP, 2R, 5BB, 1K 2B – Brynsaas 1; 1B – Bucksa 1; Luzum 1; Lillian Olson 1; Pattison 1; Thompson 1; RBI – Bucksa 1; Hjelle 1; Olson 1

SPORTS 14

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DECORAH LEADER

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THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025

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WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM

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SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ

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BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Marathon playoff game for Warriors, season continues

BY BECKY WALZ SPORTS EDITOR Wrapping up the regular season last week with a doubleheader Tuesday in Waverly with Sumner-Fredericksburg and Waverly-Shell Rock then Thursday at Cascade, the South Winn baseball team (18-13, 13-5 UIC) struggled to get its offense fired up Saturday in the first round of the Class 1A Substate 3 contest versus EdCo. The Warriors came up with the victory to keep their season alive — barely.

The Warriors hosted Nashua-Plainfield Tuesday, July 8, in round two of the playoffs; however, results of the game were

Hayden Tieskoetter (left) just missed tagging the Ed-Co player on his slide into third base during the seventh inning Saturday. Eric Greve (below) slides safely into second base around the Viking tag during Saturday’s first round district game versus Ed-Co. (Photos by Becky Walz)

unavailable at press time.

Playoff marathon The Warriors opened up district play on Saturday. Fans got their money’s worth and then some.

Nashua-Plainfield defeated Riceville in the first game of the day by a score of 3-1 in Calmar.

In game two, it took 11 innings to determine a winner between South Winn and Edgewood-Colesburg (4-18) with the Warriors edging the Vikings 3-2.

It was a pitchers’ duel with runs at a premium for both teams. The Warriors struck first in the bottom of the fifth inning drawing a bases loaded walk to

Jamie Zweibahmer (right) celebrates the Warriors’ win with Sid Hesse who scored the winning run Saturday on a pass ball. (Photo by Becky Walz)

score the first run of the game.

In the top of the seventh, Ed-Co struck back, scoring two runs to take the 2-1 lead. The Warriors were down to their final out of the game when Eric Greve fought off a pitch into shallow right field to score the tying run.

The teams would both go scoreless in the eighth, ninth and 10th innings with neither team able to come up with the big hit to score a run.

In the top of the 11th, Hayden Tieskoetter took over on the mound and dominated the inning, striking out the side. Sid Hesse and Nolan Sabelka both singled in the bottom of the 11th, and Braiden Todd drew a walk to load the bases. It took all the way to the 11th inning for Ed-Co to surrender a wild pitch, and the Warriors took advantage with Hesse scoring the winning run with two outs for the walk off win.

“I was very impressed with both pitchers for Ed-Co on how they established themselves in the strike zone. We left guys on base several times in the game, just coming up shy without getting a big hit, but Eric’s single in the seventh kept our season alive,” said coach Alex Smith.

Braiden Todd, Carver Wenthold and Tieskoetter threw well on the mound, striking out a total of 21 batters and walking five.

Todd, Greve and Hesse collected two hits apiece with Greve having the lone extra-base hit for the Warriors to drive in a pair of runs.

Doubleheader in Waverly South Winn headed to Wartburg College on Tuesday, July 1, to take on Sumner-Fredericksburg (17-4) and Waverly-Shell Rock (13-10).

Game one was a thriller for the Warriors, as they came from behind to pull of the 5-4 win over the Class 2A No. 10 Sumner-Fred Cougars. South Winn trailed 4-1 entering the top of the seventh inning. They loaded the bases, and Todd drove in three runs on a basesclearing double to tie the game.

Greve followed that up with a triple to knock in Todd.

Tieskoetter picked up the win on the mound tossing the final 1-2/3 innings stranded the tying run at third in the bottom of the seventh. Wenthold was effective in the starting role going 5-1/3 innings while allowing just three hits and two earned runs.

Waverly Shell-Rock put up a big five-run first inning and followed that up with a four-run fifth inning which eventually led to the run rule victory in six innings during game two, 11-1.

Knocking out a double, Todd had the lone Warrior hit of the game.

“This was a great opportunity for our guys to play two high quality teams in a great field set up at Wartburg. The bigger field presents some opportunities for extra base hits and Braiden and Eric had two great swings in that seventh inning. Carver and Hayden did an outstanding job on the mound and we made plays when we need to get that big win,” said coach Smith.

Wrapping it up The Warriors wrapped up the regular season on the road traveling Thursday to Cascade (1912), falling 10-0 in five frames.

Cascade came out swinging early and never looked back, pounding out 14 hits and 10 runs over the first five innings to secure the run rule victory.

“We knew we would be tested with their solid squad and I was very impressed with how they went about things offensively.

They really took advantage of any mistake we made with our

pitching location from the top to the bottom of their lineup,” said the veteran skipper.

SOUTH WINN 2, ED-CO 3 Tieskoetter (WP) – 1IP, 3K; Todd (SP) – 8IP, 3H, 2BB, 15K; Carver Wenthold (RP) – 2IP, 2R, 3H, 3BB, 3K 2B – Greve 2; 1B – Todd 2; Hesse 2; Sabelka 1; Greve 1; Jordan Einck 1; Meyer 1; RBI – Greve 2 SOUTH WINN 5, SUMNER-FRED 4 Hayden Tieskoetter (WP) – 1-2/3IP, 1R, 3H, 1BB, 2K; Carver Wenthold (SP) – 5-1/3IP, 3R, 3H, 3BB, 3K 3B – Eric Greve 1; 2B – Braiden Todd 1; 1B – Nolan Sabelka 2; Todd 1; Greve 1; Caden Meyer 1; Sid Hesse 1; RBI – Todd 3; Greve 1 SOUTH WINN 1, W-SR 11 Cameron Einck (LP) – 3IP, 6R, 4H, 4BB, 1K; Sid Hesse (RP) – 1-2/3IP, 4R, 3H, 2BB, 2K; Sabelka (RP) – 2/3IP, 1R, 1H, 1BB, 1K 2B – Todd 1; RBI – Todd 1; SB – Sabelka 1 SOUTH WINN 10, CASCADE 0 Todd (LP) – 2IP, 3R, 5H, 1BB, 1K; Tieskoetter (RP) – 2IP, 5R, 7H; Hesse (RP) – 2/3IP, 2R, 2H, 2BB 1B – Hesse 2; Todd 1; William Timp 1

Warriors sweep TV in neighborhood tussle

BY BECKY WALZ SPORTS EDITOR Closing out the Upper Iowa Conference season, the South Winn softball team (19-18, 14-2) defeated Turkey Valley (11-20, 9-7 UIC) in a two-day affair. Game one was completed Wednesday, July 2 when storms rolled through the area, forcing game two to be postponed to Thursday, July 3.

Over two days Trojan Kendall Kuennen ripped off a single during the opening play and stole second before the Warriors retired the rest of the side. Stepping up to lead off South Winn, Abby Wagner blasted a shot over the left field fence to put the Warriors on the board, a lead that held into the third when Annika Bodensteiner poked out a single and later scored for TV.

Trojan Karstyn Lukes squares up for a bunt during last week’s conference game at South Winn. (Photo by Becky Walz)

The Trojans put two more on the board to take a 3-1 lead in the fourth. Leading off the bottom of the fourth, Bailey Kuennen pounded out a hit and later scored on a Caylie Adam single. South Winn got the bats warmed up in the sixth with four runs to win 6-3.

With some rest under their feet, game two was played Thursday afternoon, with South Winn taking control of the contest after the Trojans put two runs up in the first frame. The Warriors pushed three runs home in the bottom of the opening inning, padding their lead with two in the second and four in the third. Turkey Valley managed to scratch one home in the fifth, but it was too late as South Winn finished the game early on the run-rule with two in the bottom of the fifth.

The numbers Aubree Gesing and Kuennen picked up the wins for South Winn in the pitcher’s circle.

Gesing threw game one and rang up five batters while Kuennen struck out seven.

At the plate, Kuennen was effective as she was 4-for-5 over the course of the two games with a double. Adrienne Winings and Britney Hageman had a hit in each game.

For the Trojans, Annika

Warrior shortstop Adrienne Winings (left) tracks down the throw ahead of a Turkey Valley baserunner at second on a steal attempt last week in game one of the UIC twinbill.(Photo by Becky Walz) Bodensteiner and Raelen Manderfield shared the mound, striking out 10 in the twinbill.

Kendall Kuennen was 3-for6 over the two days. Morgan Vsetecka collected two hits and drove in two runs.

SOUTH WINN 6, T. VALLEY 3 South Winn stats Aubree Gesing (WP) – 7IP, 3R, 5H, 5K HR – Abby Wagner 1; 2B – Bailey Kuennen 1; 1B – Adrienne Winings 1; Britney Hageman 1; Kuennen 1; Caylie Adam 1; RBI – Wagner 1; Alyssa Holthaus 1 Turkey Valley stats Annika Bodensteiner (LP) – 5-2/3IP, 6R, 4H, 3BB, 6K; Raelen Manderfield (RP) – 1/3IP, 2BB

1B – Kendall Kuennen 2; Morgan Vsetecka 1; Makinley Lutgen 1; Brynlee Hayek 1; Bodensteiner 1; RBI – Bodensteiner 1; SB – Kuennen 1 SOUTH WINN 11, T. VALLEY 3 South Winn stats Kuennen (WP) – 5IP, 3R, 2H, 1BB, 7K 2B – Holthaus 1; 1B – Kuennen 2; Winings 1; Hageman 1; Holthaus 1; Alyssa Timp 1; Izzy Kuboushek 1; SB – Winings 2 Turkey Valley stats Manderfield (LP) – 1-1/3IP, 5R, 2H, 6BB, 2K; Bodensteiner (RP) – 3-2/3IP, 6R, 5H, 5BB, 4K 1B – Kuennen 1; Madi McDanel 1; Vsetecka 1; Bodensteiner 1; RBI – Vsetecka 2; SB – Lauryn Dagit 1

Alyssa Holthaus hauls in a foul ball on the third baseline. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Viking softball comes up with one win in final week

BY BECKY WALZ SPORTS EDITOR Looking to carry momentum into postseason play wasn’t in the books for the Decorah softball team (15-12, 6-4 NEIC) who finished the regular season week 1-4 and third in the NEIC. The Vikings open the next chapter of the 2025 season at 7 p.m. tonight (Thursday, July 10) in Charles City against the Comets (14-14, 7-3 NEIC). If Decorah advances to the Class 4A Region 8 semifinal the Vikes will play at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 12 at Western Dubuque (29-9).

NEIC games Still in the hunt to win the Northeast Iowa Conference the Vikings traveled to Crestwood (17-6, 9-1 NEIC) Tuesday, July

1, with less than desirable results, falling 4-1 and 6-0.

Viking base runners were in short supply during game one with the lone run in the first frame. Surviving a full count Jasera Tweten was walked and scored on a double hit to left centerfield by Lauren Luzum.

Liz Bucksa provided Decorah’s only other hit in the fifth but the Vikings left the bases loaded.

Striking out six, Clara Hjelle suffered the loss in the pitcher’s circle.

The nightcap was a similar story with the Vikings putting just five runners on the bags on four hits and a dropped third strike. Luzum rapped out a pair of singles, with Tweten and Bucksa collecting one apiece.

Dylin Thompson twirled for 2-2/3 innings in the loss with

Hjelle throwing in relief.

Road game The Viking bats were more engaged Wednesday as Decorah packed up and took a road trip to Dike-New Hartford (19-9) for a non-conference game. In spite of Viking offense knocking out seven hits, Decorah dropped the contest 5-3.

Olivia Brynsaas got the Vikes on the board with the first run in the third inning after a single and RBI single by Bucksa. The Wolverines quickly responded with one in the bottom of the same frame before pushing three home in the fourth.

Decorah got two runs back in the fifth on a Brynsaas walk, Thompson single, Wolverine error and capped it all off with an RBI double by Luzum. The

Vikes scattered three more hits

by Jenna Leuenberger, Kate Pattison and Tweten in the final two stanzas but couldn’t capitalize to close the gap.

Hjelle threw six frames and struck out five in the contest.

Split decision Wrapping up the week at North Linn (21-17) Decorah came home with a split in the doubleheader, falling 10-2 before edging the Lynx 3-2.

Swinging the bats well from the first pitch of game one, North Linn put up three runs in the first and one in the second. The Lynx added four in the fourth before the Vikings managed to scratch a pair across home plate. Sitting on two outs, singles by Brynsaas, Thompson and Bucksa scored one. Tweten

Lillian Olson was one of a handful of Vikings to put the ball in play during last week’s contest at Crestwood. (Photo coutesy of Nate Troy/Cresco Times Plain Dealer) kept the bases loaded for Decorah as the junior reached first base on an error. Hit by a pitch,

One win continued on page 13