July 31, 2025

‘HUNGER IS A POLICY’

Decorah Food Pantry and Iowa Food Hub respond to government spending cuts

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

Matt Tapscott and Hannah Breckbill want to feed Decorah, but they say spending cuts at the state and federal levels have made that goal more difficult.

Tapscott, director of the Decorah Food Pantry, believes Healthy Kids Iowa, which was launched in June by Gov. Kim Reynolds, has been a fail-

ure. Prior to the program, qualifying low-income households received an additional $120 per summer in what were known as “Sun Bucks” during public schools’ summer breaks. Instead, Tapscott said the state has contracted with grocery store chains to send thousands of pounds of what he

Food

continued on page 9

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER

Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken met with the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors Monday to ask that they consider contributing to the construction of the city’s proposed sports complex. The first phase of the project is estimated to cost $3.1 million.

assistance from county for proposed sports complex project — a pair of baseball fields, eight pickle ball courts, sidewalks and a 100-vehicle gravel parking lot. Additionally, Goedken said, prairie and storm water detention will be built into the project, accounting for $400,000 of the construction costs. The first bid for the project was received and rejected in early June after the bid exceeded the city engineer’s estimates. The second bid letting is due

Goedken shared a brightly colored mockup of all the amenities included in the initial phase of the construction

Luther alum chooses to restore historic

Decorah hotel building

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR

Its outside looks unchanged, but the inside of the former St. Cloud Hotel in downtown Decorah smells of fresh renovation work.

Crews are now squaring away the last few details inside the three-story building, after work began last year. Deon Sawyer, project manager for the restoration of the building, said the property was purchased in January of 2024 by Brent Johnson, whom Sawyer described as a Luther College alumnus who returns to Decorah several times a year while splitting his time between Florida and Minnesota. Sawyer said the new owner was motivated to revamp the aging building partly because of its connection to the local college.

“He also has a love of restoring historic buildings,” Sawyer said of Johnson. “We didn’t know how much but, once we got into it, it obviously needed a massive overhaul, and he was willing to invest. It needed a lot.” Sawyer said signs of water damage were evident around a number of the building’s windows, which was suspected to have caused further structural damage.

“Unless you tear open the walls, you don’t know how bad the structure is,” Deon said. “They knew there was lots of issues, but they just didn’t know how deep they went.”

Difficult decisions

Information compiled by the Decorah Historic Preservation Commission said the former hotel — located at 202 West Main St. — was constructed in 1858 by E.E. Otis and was used by Luther College from 1862 to 1865 while the college completed the construction of the former Main Building on campus. The college’s professors and president were housed in the building, along with about 25 students at that time, and the basement served as a cafeteria. The building later became the St. Cloud Hotel. It also later housed an optometrist’s office and eventually a dental practice.

The former hotel had most recently been used as an apartment building, and tenants had to be vacated before restoration efforts could begin.

Gayle Jurgensen, property manager for the restored building, said Johnson granted the tenants — numbering about 10 at that time — two months of free rent during the transition. Sawyer also supplied the tenants with area property listings, and she said all of those who kept in touch with her during the project

Historic building

Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken presented plans for the city’s proposed sports complex during Monday’s Winneshiek County Board of

continued on page 4

(Photo by Denise Lana)

Historic Burr Oak mercantile building reopens

The mercantile building in Burr Oak, just steps away from the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum, has been renovated. Find the story and photos on page 3. (Photo by Roz Weis)

Decorah Food Pantry volunteers Jon Hart and Anne Bulliung prepare tomatillos to be offered to pantry patrons. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Crews continue to work on final details inside the former St. Cloud Hotel in downtown Decorah. The second-floor game room features a number of vintage design elements. (Photos by Seth Boyes)

The former hotel’s exterior stucco was added around 1979. Recent renovations to the building largely left its exterior unchanged. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

PHOTOS

Members of the Skjaldborg Viking Encampment displayed and demonstrated the use of numerous viking weapons and armor. The troupe held their mock battles in Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum’s Heritage Park, and a skirmish or two took place while the group marched in Saturday’s Nordic Fest Parade down Water Street. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

Community celebrates heritage during 2025 Nordic Fest

over the weekend, as crowds once again participated in the city’s annual Nordic Fest celebration. This year’s event also recognized the 200th anniversary of organized Norwegian migration to the United States. A number of presentations, crafts and other activities in this year’s lineup highlighted the milestone. Opening ceremonies took place the afternoon of Thursday, July 24, and a number of Nordic Fest’s staple events, such as the Enveløpet 5K, Nordic Dancers performances and evening concerts outdoors, remained popular. The Kanoløpet — or kayak and canoe race — was called off due to high water in the Upper Iowa River. The weekend’s Grand Parade meandered down Water Street on Saturday morning, and was followed by a number of entertainment options as well as competitions. Numerous booths in the downtown area offered various Scandinavian foods, and vendors did their best to keep up with demand throughout the weekend. And fest-goers took in a fireworks display Saturday evening before the annual celebration drew to a close.

A slathering of butter and a sprinkling of sugar, brown sugar or cinnamon is just the recipe for the perfect “round” of warm lefse. Lines are always long for the Scandinavian delicacy during the Fest. The lefse stand is sponsored by the Nordic Fest Board, and a long list of community volunteers kept the lines moving quickly. (Photo by Roz Weis)

Nordic Fest Board Vice President

and Vesterheim member Sally

(right) present a uniquely-rosemalled plate to Decorah’s Dave Smutzler, the 2025 Nordic Fest Skål recipient. Skål, pronounced “skoal,” is a Scandinavian term meaning “cheers” when used as a toast.

Nordic

(right) present an honorary Nordic Fest plate, rosemalled by Stromseth, to this year’s Nordic Fest Grand Marshal Diane Ott-Whealy, co-founder of Seed Savers Exchange, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary Aug. 8-9. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Frode Tilden, a native of Valdres, Norway, who now lives in Fargo, South Dakota, participated in the lutefisk eating contest Saturday. Contestants must place their empty bowl on their head and open their mouth to prove they have eaten their full portion of lutefisk — a Norwegian dish of dried cod

(Photo by Seth Boyes)

Fest attendees stopped along Water Street to watch volunteers inside the Oneota Co-Op Kitchen Classroom make lefse — a soft Norwegian flatbread.

(Photo by Seth Boyes)

RIGHT- Tansy Sears of Danby, Vermont, demonstrated how flax could be processed into yarn. She was one of several crafts people stationed in Heritage Village near Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum during Nordic Fest. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

INSET- (Photo by Denise Lana)

Downtown Decorah was full of foot traffic

Sarah Brandt (left)

Stromseth

Smutzler, a retired Decorah police chief, has attended nearly every Nordic Fest since 1991, when he was a rookie police officer in Decorah. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Fest President Cole Steffen (left) and Vesterheim’s Sally Stromseth

ABOVE- The Luren Singers sang traditional Norwegian songs as they made their way down Water Street along the fest parade route Saturday morning. The group is the oldest on-going men's chorus in the country devoted to keeping Norwegian music and heritage alive. (Photo by Roz Weis)

LEFT- Alden Klosterwill was among the youngsters crafting their personal floating ships with corks, toothpicks, rubber bands and felt sails at Vesterheim Heritage Park during the fest. Everyone had an opportunity to test their cork sailboats for stability in a nearby basin of water at the craft station. (Photo by Roz Weis)

Decorah High School’s marching band was one of many entries in Saturday’s Nordic Fest Parade. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

Maddie Peterson shows off some dance moves during the Kiddie Rave Friday evening on Winnebago Street.

(Photo by Denise Lana)

the

and

as the

and Highland Lutheran

Matthew

Lutheran Churches listens during a joint worship service Sunday at the former Highlandville School building. The two pastors, joined by the Rev. David Werges of Burr Oak and Hesper Lutheran Churches, preached from a makeshift pulpit on the landing atop the stairs which led to the schoolhouse’s entrance. (Photos by Zach Jensen)

Area churches gather at Highlandville School for joint service

A combined total of about 50 parishioners from six churches in Winneshiek County braved heat and humidity Sunday morning to participate in a joint worship service, potluck and fundraiser in the former Highlandville School yard. The event was part of the Shared Ministry Project in which members from several churches meet every two to three months and discuss ways to address declining rural church attendance as well as plan projects involving several congregations. A portion of the funds raised during the event will go toward repairing the Highlandville School’s floor and work on nearby stream bank stabilization projects. Another portion of the funds will be donated to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America’s Young Adults in Global Mission Program. Parishioners were from area Lutheran churches, including Hauge, Canoe Ridge, Burr Oak, Hesper, Big Canoe, Highland and Good Shepherd. Decorah United Church of Christ was also represented at the service.

Rasmussen of Decorah and Rev. David Werges of the Burr Oak and Hesper Lutheran Churches performed a special musical piece during the multi-congregational service Sunday morning in Highlandville. Attendees sat beneath temporary canopies, umbrellas and anywhere else they could find shade during the service. Although the temperature that morning was just 80 degrees, according to the National Weather Service, the region experienced 97 percent humidity, a 70-degree dew point and a heat index in the mid to upper 90s.

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER

Historic Burr Oak mercantile building reopens after year-long renovation

Thanks to ongoing donations and volunteer efforts, Burr Oak’s old mercantile building in the center of town is now open as the new Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum Visitor Center.

A renovation of the former mercantile was completed in just over a year, and the Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum’s aim of modernizing the building is now a reality. The center is staffed to better accommodate and preserve the village’s history.

Museum Board President Leslie Cook said grants, donations and volunteers were vital to the restoration.

“We started back in October and were finished just in time for Laura Days in June,” Cook said, referring to the community’s annual festival celebrating author Laura Ingalls Wilder.

She attributed the swift renovation effort to local contractors and businesses. Improvements ranged from removing the aging balcony area, to refinishing floors, tearing out old railings, adding new windows, installing sheet rock, positioning modern electric outlets and adding a new handicapped-accessible bathroom and larger kitchen areas.

Museum Director Barb Olson said the larger kitchen space is designed to be used for group activities, meetings, crafts and more.

Museum offices and the gift shop were previously housed in the old Burr Oak Savings Bank down the street, which had limited space, the bank building will be used as a Burr Oak History Center.

Building history

The old mercantile had experienced many decades of heavy use, after once housing the Burr Oak community’s post office and later a popular restaurant. It reigns as one of the larger buildings in town.

The former Burr Oak Mercantile building was gifted to the museum in 2017. The museum’s board and volunteers anticipated plenty of time-consuming, costly renovation work.

Former Museum Director Ferneva Brimacomb made the most recent donation to the museum, gifting the building to the nonprofit in an effort to maintain Burr Oak’s historic property.

The Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum in Burr Oak

was founded in the 1970s, after a group of historically-minded citizens of Burr Oak and Decorah learned the author of the popular “Little House on the Prairie” and other titles had lived in Burr Oak with her family from 1876 to 1877. A museum board was formed soon after the discovery, and initial steps were taken to acquire the building where the Ingalls family lived. Fundraising started, and the museum opened a few years later. The museum operates today as a nonprofit.

Several additions have been made to the museum over the years, including a pioneer park and a restored country schoolhouse on the museum grounds.

Museum history

The Ingalls family’s former home was at one time Burr Oak’s first hotel.

The original structure was built in 1851 by Samuel Belding. The original hotel, dubbed the Burr Oak House, was made of logs and measured approximately 16 feet by 20 feet, with a loft accessible by a ladder. After selling the hotel to John Waggoner, it was renamed as the Waggoner House. An addition was built onto the hotel in 1857, and the hotel was renamed the Burr Oak House again. It became the Masters Hotel in 1873, when William Masters purchased the hotel. Masters sold it in 1876 to William Steadman — a friend of the Ingalls Family from Walnut Grove, Minnesota. Charles Ingalls and his family — having endured plagues of grasshoppers the previous two years — set out for Burr Oak from Walnut Grove in 1876, with the intention of helping manage the hotel. They moved into the hotel, still known as the Masters Hotel at that time, with the Steadman family that same year.

The hotel continued to change ownership and names over the years. It became a private residence in the early 1900s and was unoccupied in the 1950s. It was purchased by four individuals in 1973, with the hope of restoring the hotel and opening it as a Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum.

The Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum opened in June of 1976, after three years of volunteer work, grant applications and fundraisers. Today, the museum staff greet more than 6,000 visitors each

A vintage stained-glass piece was

year — drawing guests from all 50 states and many nations. The museum has earned several awards over the years. The former Masters Hotel on the museum grounds is regis-

tered on the National Register of Historical Places. To learn more about ongoing fundraising efforts, visit lauraingallswilder.us/ or call 563735-5916.

Rev. Matthew Becker of Big Canoe

Churches reads

gospel,

Rev.

Rossler of Canoe Ridge

Glenwood

Donna

Museum staffers Zoey Rasmusson and Madi Castro stand behind the store’s restored wood counter in the visitor center.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum Board President Leslie Cook and Museum Director Barb Olson are pictured in the newly renovated visitor center space in the renovated mercantile building. (Photo by Roz Weis) INSET- Here’s a look at the old mercantile building from a bygone era. The Robert M. Brimacomb family gifted the building to the Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum Board in 2017.

installed at the entrance of the new visitor center.

Historic building

continued from front had been able to find new housing.

Jurgensen said, while some in the community believed the apartments to be affordable housing units for low income individuals, the building was not subsidized for that purpose, though one specific tenant may have been renting at a reduced rate under the previous owner.

Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken said, to his knowledge, no low income subsidies were put in place for the apartment building.

Both Jurgensen and Sawyer said the apartments were in need of numerous repairs.

“I kind of go back to the idea that, in the dynamic of any situation, you can both have a perspective that people can get behind and have competing needs if you will,” Sawyer said.

“It doesn’t necessarily make each party wrong. It’s not about throwing any negativity toward those poor renters. That was unfortunate, and I think about what would have happened if they had stayed here and the building would have just gone into disrepair. We’ve seen it in other places where it literally collapses.”

The collapse of a Dubuque apartment building in 2023 killed several residents. Sawyer said, while she has no proof such a scenario might have happened to the former hotel in Decorah, she hopes vacating the building prevented the potential for such a tragedy.

“It was recommended actually that it be torn down, but the owner did not want to do that,” Sawyer said. “He wanted to put in the extra money. Like I said, he has a love of preserving buildings. He thought it would be worth it. Also, when you think about that, it might be the easier route, but then what happens to the shared wall of the business next door?

What happens to that development and the look of what goes in on this block if the land is just sold? He wanted to keep that as much as he could and be a part of how it is now.”

Vintage vibes

Sawyer said the project’s engineer and architect spent approximately two months putting a plan together for the building renovation. Demolition work lasted about three months, she said. Plans called for steel beams and studs to be put in place, and area work crews along with local subcontractors were brought in around September of 2024. Swayer said the build-out lasted roughly 10 months.

The finished design echoes the building’s early history, with elements inspired by life during the late 1800s through the 1920s.

“It was important to have elements of that era and something from that style so it wasn’t all modernized,” Deon said, noting details, such as the window trim and brick elements.

Jurgensen noted, as part of that motif, none of the building’s five bedrooms feature closets — instead they feature armoires. In addition, the three-story building now includes multiple gathering spaces, a large kitchen, eight restrooms and a game room as well as a library stocked with approximately 2,000 books purchased from locations throughout the region. Sawyer said an-

tique and vintage furniture was upcycled to serve new purposes within the renovated hotel, and other elements were procured to match the overall aesthetic throughout the building.

“That was part of the search process,” Sawyer said. “It was months of literally going and handpicking things from a variety of antique stores and stores that had pieces that were upcycled. We went as far as Chicago, Minneapolis and Des Moines to get different things that would fit into the building.”

She and Jurgensen said they also foresee potential for the space to be rented for community uses, such as live murder mystery events.

“There’s definitely opportunity to use the first and second floor for an event if you’re not going to stay overnight and use the bedrooms,” Jurgensen said. Sawyer said the basement level is likely to remain a commercial space, and plans for that space are currently being considered.

Rethinking rentals

Open houses are already being scheduled for interested

parties to view the property, according to Sawyer.

She said Johnson hopes to establish a shared ownership model for the building — several families would hold ownership of the building and use the space when they visit Decorah. She and Sawyer hope, if the model catches on locally, it will help alleviate housing shortages in the city by visitors reducing reliance on short-term rental properties.

“Instead of thousands of people coming back to different locations to maybe pick a couple favorites and have other shared ownerships,” Sawyer said.

Decorah is home to somewhere between 70 and 100 short-term rental properties, according to Goedken. State law now prevents cities from restricting the prevalence of short-term rentals. Jurgensen said many families which use those rental properties during their visits to Decorah have ties to the community or the college if not both, but she said a shift toward shared ownership, like that proposed for the restored hotel, might also have the added benefit of increased local

From the fest...

employment.

“They come back to town for events but they own that property, and they then employ a person like myself to manage the property when they’re not there to make sure it’s in good shape,” she said. “There’s a whole other viable business

an

Sawyer

“And it’s a way of preserving these big old wonderful

The entryway of the restored building features several facets chosen to harken back to the building’s history. (Photos by Seth Boyes)

Stairwells on the second and third floor of the building had to be designed to accommodate steel beams which were put in place during the restoration process.

The three-story building now includes multiple gathering spaces, a large kitchen, eight restrooms and a game room as well as a library.

model for property owners.”

said the model may not be a viable option for all the city’s visitors, but she feels its

exciting possibility.

houses,” Jurgensen said.

TOP LEFT- Displays of Norwegian pride were evident as Saturday’s Nordic Fest parade got rolling. (Photo by Seth Boyes) LEFT- Decorah Lions Club members Larry Stevenson, left, and Dale Nimrod, staffed the popcorn stand. (Photo by Roz Weis)

ABOVE- Members of the military honor guard marched down Water Street at the start of the Fest parade.(Photo by Roz Weis)

OPINION

At least I got some lutefisk

Well, another Nordic Fest is behind us, and I can now say I have eaten lutefisk — how could I say no when a native Norwegian insisted I try it?

I’ll admit I didn’t exactly savor the gelatinized fish. Instead, I adopted the down-it-like-ashot approach I’ve seen demonstrated by some competitors during the lutefisk eating contest. And that small yet memorable act marked the end of what had been a very long day of news coverage for me.

Not to brag, but I ran the numbers. My camera kit and I walked more than 5 miles on Saturday alone, snapping more than 1,700 photos as we took in the sights and sounds of Nordic Fest (thank goodness we don’t still use film). It’s the type of thing I’ve enjoyed ever since I first sat at a news desk and was soon thrust into helping cover a week’s worth of events at the second-largest fair in the state. And I’ve found there’s just something about covering summer events that draws community to the forefront in a way that’s more rare the rest of the year. In short, you’re in it. You’re in the crowd. You’re part of the noise. You’re one of the smiling faces. You’re feeling the same excitement.

So often, we journalists have to keep our distance and in more ways than most folks realize, despite how close we have to get to the community we’re covering. I was just thinking to myself the other day how I’d

Driftless Preservation

Been away up north to lake country — feel ashamed of how millionaires and corporations have bought up lakeshore and wilderness for aggressive play. Happy to be back in northeast Iowa and Decorah, where we struggle to find balance between nature, farms and humans. I see that we need conservative and progressive ideas to mix and challenge, and am not impressed with selfish polarization and hate speech. The Decorah Leader is a blessing in providing quality information and room for opinion. I meet with a group of elders at the Senior Center who actively search for old and new wisdom to apply to life. We talk with enthusiasm and listen carefully to each person to keep the process going. Decorah and this area have rich opportunities to come together to create community. In spirit of the scary world, I find courage and hope in the wildness where we can debate and challenge without threat and with patient compassion. The challenged is to go out and lead or participate. Let’s keep this a good place for all — do your part!

Don Fish Decorah

Surprise. You may have been wondering about these new data farms. Well, wonder no longer.

It’s you that’s a part of the crop grown on these unique farms. You can’t have a farm without a crop and unfortunately, you are the crop. Oh, I know, all of these companies provide updated privacy statements assuring you everything is really ok. They want you to understand what they say, but what about what they don’t say? Now you are part of a crop

BY SETH BOYES News Editor

explain that idea to someone outside the business. The closet I could come was to compare it to a referee calling a home game for their own high school team — you may have a preference, but you have to remain impartial and apply the rules fairly.

Often, before we ever make our first keystroke, we have to pause and consider our own biases — whether how we convey part of this community’s story will cast the newspaper as something we’re not.

Maybe that’s the advantage when covering things like Nordic Fest. There’s little to no bias to be had. It is what it is.

Parades are worth smiling about. Musicians are worth clapping for. Viking reenactments which include the impromptu use of a frying pan as a deadly weapon — and which end up producing the quintessential cartoon sound when applied to a metal helmet — are worth laughing about, and we do all of it together.

Like I said, community is on display in a way that’s not as common during the other seasons.

It’s times like Nordic Fest when folks in my position can lift our professional visor just a bit more and draw just one measure closer to the people we capture through our camera lens and in ink on the pages of our notebook. We can cheer for the 5K runners crossing the finish line without fear we’ll be accused of favoritism. We can banter a bit with contest judges without worry we’ll be seen as lobbying for a certain outcome. We can drool over the savory smells emanating from the food booths along Water Street without fretting over whether wolfing down any number of Scandinavian morsels will cast suspicion on our motivations.

Well, truth be told dear reader, I’ve never actually eaten anything from the Nordic Fest food booths — and this is technically my third fest (see the 2014 fest button I proudly keep pinned on the outside of my satchel). I told myself this would be the year, but unfortunately, I kept myself too busy yet again. But it is on my to-do list for 2026. And at least I got some lutefisk this year.

Agree with Seth? Think he’s got it completely backwards or he’s missed the point entirely? Let your voice be heard. Letters to the editor may be emailed to editor@decorahleader.com or dropped off at 110 Washington St. Suite 4 in Decorah.

‘Bipartisanship at its best’

Dear Editor, Three things:

First, I want to praise all the people — from both parties — who lined the road in support of Sheriff Dan Marx when Attorney General Bird showed up in Decorah on July 14. Bipartisanship at its best.

Second, I want to voice my appreciation for the 7/24 editorial about how Attorney General Bird, in essence, took the coward’s way out. Not having the guts to admit (a) that she was wrong all along, (b) that she had gone off half-cocked and (c) that she never had a legal leg to stand on for her lawsuit against us. She tried instead to make it look as if Sheriff Marx had conceded something, or changed his stance on something somehow, somewhere along the way, to appease her. Which he had not.

What can I say? Lying to themselves and to others to save face is the only way some people can get through the day, honor be damned. At least we can be grateful she didn’t take a “common sense be damned” attitude in order to drag this endlessly through the courts.

Third, I have lately been sharing the lyrics to this old Malvina Reynolds song with various people, and I wanted, on the heels of the AG’s backing off, to put it before the public at large. It is, along with Dan Marx, a small beacon of hope even to me, old hardcore die-hard cynical Murphy’s Law adherent that I am. Might rarely makes right, but once in a while, right makes might — not in a beat-them-with-a cud-

growing on this farm and wonder how in the world you are there. Well, let me tell you. It’s the digital age. And digitally speaking, anything you do is digitized. The time spent on the computer and or phone will enrich the crop. In fact, you are the fertilizer for the crop along with “mucho” massive amounts of electricity and water. You can’t have this crop without them. What kind of defense can we mount to keep the data

gel sort of way, but rather, like the grass and Dan Marx, in a steady, gentle-but-indefatigable sort of way; for in the end, truth and right are living, and lies, fear, hate and miserly hoarding are, like the stone, dead things.

Anyone who has a sidewalk older than a few years can attest to the truth of these verses:

God bless the grass, that grows through the crack, They roll the concrete over it and try to keep it back;

The concrete gets tired of what it has to do; It breaks and it buckles and the grass grows through.

God bless the truth, that fights toward the sun; They roll the lies over it and think that it is done;

But it moves through the ground, and reaches for the air

And after a while, it is growing everywhere.

God bless the grass, that grows through cement; It’s green and it’s tender and it’s easily bent; But after a while, it lifts up its head, For the grass is living and the stone is dead.

God bless the grass, that’s gentle and low; Its roots they are deep and its will is to grow;

And God bless the truth, the friend of the poor, And the wild grass growing at the poor man’s door.

And God bless the grass.

Sincerely,

Sharon DelVento Decorah

farms from overlaying our soil with concrete, unable to grow any kind of edible crop? Good question. Who is paying for this farm? Guess. Another good question.

At least be thinking about the potential outcome because, if you’re hungry and you can’t find food, maybe it’s because a data farm is on top of your dinner.

John Carver Decorah

Echoes of the Past

It’s time to organize milk stations here

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER

Preliminary steps toward organizing a milk station in Decorah started 100 years ago. Back in late July of 1925, the headlines reported such milk stations (creameries) would increase local dairyman’s incomes from their herds. Milk producers would soon organize a cooperative marketing association, with the ultimate goal of building a central station in 22 Iowa communities for distribution of milk and manufacturing of milk products. Local organizers went to Des Moines to begin the organizational process. Organizers back then stated, “Our organization is for the purpose of stabilizing and encouraging milk production, taking care of the surplus in production through creation of new markets and the manufacturing of quality milk products … We expect to increase the dairyman’s income from his herd through elimination of wasted surplus and corrected marketing – not through an increase in price of bottled milk.” Nearby Minnesota had already started organizing cooperatives (owned by groups of farmers) earlier in the 1920s. The many cooperative creameries established across Winneshiek County and Northeast Iowa played an important role in the dairy industry, adding much to the state’s significant butter production during those years.

More headlines include …

100YEARS

AGO: The millinery business of Mrs. Mae Price in the Winneshiek Hotel has been sold to Miss Mary Ronan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Ronan of Decorah. She took possession Aug. 1, 1925. Miss Ronan has a host of friends here in town who will be pleased to know she is entering the business circles of the city. She has had three years of experience as a trimmer, and she is well versed in the millinery business. By acquiring the popular local establishment, she should command a fine business. She will leave next week for a millinery market in Chicago to purchase new stock.

…Another instance of the value of Red Cross work came to pass here last week. A young man owes his life to the presence of Billy Longstreet at the swimming hole below Tavener Bridge. The man, who is identified by the name Ryan, was supposed to know how to swim, but got caught up in the backwater that flows toward the dam. He was fighting so strenuously that the effort was his unraveling. His call for help brought Longstreet, who grabbed him by the hair just as he was going down for a third time. After getting him to shore, Longstreet applied the Schaffer method of resuscitation and soon had him breathing

…George F. Meighan, formerly of Decorah, is the traffic manager for Ringling Brothers Circus. He reports the Ringling Brothers will not make any stops in Iowa this season. According to a letter from Meighan to C.R. Selland of this city, it would please him more than anything to bring the “Big Circus Show” back to his home state. He advised that the railroads in the area might not be able to handle the big trains needed for the

This is a vintage photo of the Arctic Springs Creamery in the village of Quandahl. The creamery, one of the first in this area, churned out thousands of pounds of butter each year. The creamery started in the 1890s. It was purchased by the Quandahl area community in the 1920s and turned into a cooperative. In its prime, Quandahl was also once home to a grist mill, a dry goods store, a hardware store, a grocery store, a bank, a blacksmith shop, a shoemaker and a woolen mill. (Photo courtesy

sociation)

traveling circus. Mr. Meighan is headquartered in Chicago. He has been with the circus for a good many years.

…Decorah Furniture Company has announced they added a new Limousine Funeral Car to their equipment. The car will be available for patrons at the usual fee of $10 for use within the city and $15 for use in the country.

…That oil well over at the Bakke lease near town will be shot some time in the near future. Officials are making plans now, and they will surely find out soon if there is any oil here or not.

…Mrs. Pat Gallagher from over near Bluffton was in town last Tuesday, and reportedly had her hair bobbed. Mrs. Henry Wernet also came from Bluffton another day last week to have her hair shingled and bobbed.

…The Decorah Business and Professional Women’s Club has set aside some funds for an education project for the purpose of helping worthy girls through high school. The fund will be used for buying textbooks and other necessary items for high school work. Needy girls may also get help with buying clothes for school. The club is hosting an ice cream social later this month to raise further funding.

…The merchants of Decorah jointly conducted a “Come to Decorah Week” promotion. Some 60 businessmen offered the biggest values of the season. Folks were invited to bring their picnic dinners and enjoy an oldtime picnic at the City Park. Merchants furnished coffee and doughnuts or the grownups, and ice cream cones were available for the kiddies. A tremendous crowd was reported.

…H.B. Montgomery of the Monte Oil Company put on another big event the other day when the community celebrated the third anniversary of the opening of the new pavement on State Street. Nearly 1,000 people responded. The pavement was marked off in circles, and the kids played various games and enjoyed themselves immensely. The famous Odd Fellows Band furnished dandy music to enliven the occasion.

Children were given pretty balloons and feasted on tasty Sugar Bowl Ice Cream sandwiches. The Monte Oil Company unveiled their newly enlarged filling station with four pumps going, and they reportedly sold 1,900 gallons of gas – the biggest day’s business they ever transacted.

90

YEARS AGO: 1935

– The possibility of a municipal swimming pool for Decorah took more-or-less tangible shape the other evening with a committee of the Decorah Chamber of Commerce appeared before the city council and requested the council ask the government for a 45 percent grant. As yet, the cost of such a

pool has not been decided upon, but the probability is that such a project could cost from $28,000 to $30,000.

…A new city ordinance governing the sale of beer here has several new provisions, including sale on Sundays is prohibited; there must be an unobstructed view of any beer parlor from the street; no dancing on premises where beer is sold; and the following are prohibited: slot machines, punch boards or any other games of chance.

…New improvements at the Inwood Pavilion could cost upwards of $4,000. Enlarging the dance space, laying a hard maple floor, enlarging the dining area and adding new lighting arrangements are planned.

…A pre-opening is planned this month at the new Breezy Hill Dance Pavilion about four miles north of Decorah on Highway 52. The new pavilion is a dandy and will greatly please the dancers of Northeast Iowa.

…One customer reports her new, modern kerosene-operated Electrolux refrigerator only costs her 3 ½ cents a day to operate.

…FRONT PAGE NEWS –Anne Cox, proprietor at Anne’s Beauty Shop, has just installed a new hair drying system. It will thoroughly dry a finger wave in 10 minutes and is reputed to be one of the finest hair drying systems in this part of the state.

…Top hogs sold for $11 per hundred weight on the Chicago markets last week. This is the highest price in more than five years.

…A nice bit of volunteer work was offered to Fisheries Superintendent N.L. Moe of this city last week. Volunteers helped place some large goldfish in the pond on the east side of the city park.

…A flower festival will be held this month at C.K. Preus Gymnasium at Luther College. A great deal of interest has been expressed in Decorah and surrounding communities.

…Shop A&P Foods for these bargains from 1935: Two pounds of butter for 53 cents; tomato juice, four cans for 19 cents; Wheaties, a big package for 11 cents; 4 cakes of Palmolive soap for 17 cents; a dozen oranges for 29 cents; and a peck of white potatoes, 34 cents.

…The city will have wider control over automobile drivers after an ordinance was passed last week providing a fine of $100 for reckless driving. The ordinance also prohibits drunken driving and requires all autos have adequate brakes. Drivers must also have operational mufflers.

…The Decorah Junior Drum and Bugle Corps will leave soon for Columbus, Ohio this week to represent the state of Iowa at the National Convention of Elks. The boys, who will travel by train car from Decorah, will surely be a big hit at the big event.

Decorah Genealogy As-

NEWS/OBITUARIES

Fromm clarifi es process for sale of county’s HHS building

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

Winneshiek County Development and Tourism Director

Stephanie Fromm helped clarify the process of advertising the sale of a county-owned commercial building during Monday’s board of supervisors meeting.

Fromm’s perspective was requested after the supervisors’ July 21 meeting, during which several board members expressed frustration that the sale of the county’s previous Health and Human Services facility at 2307 U.S. Highway 52 was taking longer than expected.

This past spring, the supervisors decided to move the county’s HHS office into the recently-purchased Community Services Building at 607 Washington St. in Decorah, which was previously owned by the Spectrum Network. The move left the previous HHS location vacant, and the supervisors put the building up for sale after HHS staff moved into the new location.

The board of supervisors unanimously approved a motion on May 19, authorizing Winneshiek County Development and Tourism to market the property, and a public hearing was to be scheduled upon re-

ceiving any reasonable offer.

The supervisors held a closed session in June to discuss an offer it had received, but the supervisors voted against accepting that offer — the name of the bidder and the amount offered was not required to be made publicly available.

Supervisors Vice-Chairman Mark Vick made a motion during the July 21 meeting for a public hearing on the sale of the property to be held three weeks from that date to reconsider the first offer the county had received. That motion failed due to lack of a second.

Vick expressed disappointment during this week’s meeting that the building has been unoccupied and unsold for 90 days, and Supervisor Steve Kelsey concurred.

“We have more than 15 leads, and we did get one of-

Winneshiek County Development and Tourism Director

The building which previously housed the county’s Health and Human Services facility at 2307 U.S. Highway 52 is for sale. (File photo)

Decorah School Board elects interim treasurer while seeking permanent successor

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER

The Decorah Community School Board of Directors met in special session Wednesday, July 23, and elected a new board treasurer.

Interim Director of Business Services Joan Loew of Lansing was elected to replace Cathy Dietzenbach, who retired this summer.

Winneshiek County

Sheriff’s Office

Dillon Alan Wangen, age 18, of Mabel, Minnesota, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 6:45 p.m. Sunday, July 13 on the charge of assault on an older individual—first offense. Information from the sheriff’s office said Wangen and a 17-year-old male were driving on North Winn Road north of Decorah, saw a 74-yearold woman walking along the road and “were in agreement to throw a slushy drink at the person walking.” The sheriff’s office said Wangen threw the drink at the woman while traveling at highway speeds and the slushy struck the woman in the shoulder, causing visible bruising which required medical attention. The 17-year-old was referred to the juvenile court system and faces the same charge as Wangen.

Ryan Halverson, age 43, was charged with public intoxication — first offense — and disorderly conduct at approximately 8:15 p.m. Saturday, July 19 in the 900 block of Montgomery Street in Decorah. A criminal complaint said Halverson became disruptive while being evaluated for substance abuse and mental health needs at the WinnMed emergency room. The 43-year-old was told to remain in his room, but exited the room multiple times and caused disruptions before asking a sheriff’s deputy to take him to the jail. A separate complaint said Halverson initially fled on foot and was located at a nearby apartment complex “attempting to conceal his location.” He was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 3:15 a.m. Sunday, July 20.

Zachary Willie, age 32, of Cresco was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 2:15 p.m. Monday, July 21 on an arrest warrant related to an instance of third-degree burglary. Information from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said Willie was transported to the local jail from the Howard County Jail. No injuries were reported following a rollover the afternoon of Monday July 21. Information from the Winneshiek County

Decorah Superintendent Tim Cronin praised Dietzenbach for her 17 years of service to the district.

“Throughout her time with the district, Cathy has been a steady and dedicated leader, guiding our financial operations with an unwavering commitment. From managing complex budgets to ensuring our schools remained fiscally strong and sustainable, she has played a

Sheriff’s Office said 17-year-old Devon Michael Rouse of Decorah was driving a 2008 Dodge Charger along 320th Street and lost control before entering the northern ditch. The sheriff’s report said the teen overcorrected and slid into the south ditch, where it rolled. Damage to the car was estimated at $5,000 — the teen had just purchased the car for $500, according to the report — and Rouse was cited for failure to maintain control.

Desiree Tollefson, age 30, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 3:25 a.m. Wednesday, July 23 on an arrest warrant for violation of probation. Court documents said Tollefson’s probation officer discovered the phone number authorities had been using to contact Tollefson no longer belonged to her as of mid-June. The officer filed a request to revoke the 30-year-old’s probation in a July 14 filing. Tollefson was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 3:25 a.m. Wednesday, July 23 after being transported there from the Fayette County Jail.

Chase Telsrow, age 42, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 4:05 p.m. Thursday, July 24 on a pair of arrest warrants for violation of probation as well as charges of possession of a controlled substance and diving while license suspended. Information from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said Telsrow was transported from the Fayette County Jail.

Adam Strand, age 40, was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 1:25 p.m. Friday, July 25 on a pair of arrest warrants for violation of probation. Possible minor injuries were reported after a collision Friday. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 25-yearold Jared Kenneth Frana of Decorah was driving a 2019 Ford F150 north along 245th Avenue and had stopped at a stop sign near the intersection with Town Line Road. The report said Frana failed to yield to an oncoming 2017 Ford F350 driven by 58-year-old Kevin Duane Weidow of Calmar and the two trucks collided. Frana reported possible minor injuries and was

vital role in supporting the success of our students, staff and community,” Cronin said. “We are grateful for Cathy’s many contributions and wish her all the best in a well-earned and fulfilling retirement.’

Cronin said the search for Dietzenbach’s permanent replacement is under way. He anticipates the search process will last approximately two months. He expects Loew is more than capa-

transported to WinnMed. Weidow was listed as uninjured, but two other individuals were listed as having possible injuries and were taken to WinnMed. Frana was cited for failure to obey a stop sign and yield the right of way. Damage to the F150 was estimated at $15,000. Damage to the F350 was estimated at $5,000.

Shannon Marie Bruns, age 43, of Calmar was charged with domestic abuse/assault at approximately 9:26 a.m. Saturday, July 26 in the 1700 of 265th Avenue in Calmar. A criminal complaint said Bruns struck the victim on the left side of his face. The complaint said Bruns was in the process of removing her belongings from the home she previously shared with the victim, and a conversation had become heated. Bruns was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 11:10 a.m. the same day. Possible injuries were reported after a collision in Ridgeway. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 74-yearold Beverly Jean Rosendahl of Ridgeway was driving a 2010 Dodge Ram at approximately 5:16 p.m. Monday, July 28 and exited a driveway with the intent to follow Highway 9. The truck collided with an oncoming 2002 GM Envoy driven by 45-year-old Janet Lea Smith of Ridgeway. The sheriff’s report said Rosendahl was uninjured, but Smith reported possible injuries. Rosendahl was cited for failure to yield upon entering a highway. Damage to the Dodge Ram was estimated at $4,500. Damage to the Envoy was estimated at $8,500.

Decorah Police Department

Rosanna Lee Weis, age 68, of Decorah was charged with three counts of fifth-degree theft — each under $300. Criminal complaints said Weis failed to scan items on multiple occasions while using a self check-out station at the Decorah Hy-Vee. Court filings indicated Hy-Vee Loss Prevention reviewed video footage between May 1 and July 15. The video showed Weis had placed her Hy-Vee rewards card over the barcodes of some items, according

fer,” Fromm told the board. “I don’t know how the rest of this week will go, but we just got the agreement approved at the last meeting.”

Fromm noted that, during the July 21 meeting, several supervisors discussed listing the building on real estate websites such as Zillow and Realtor.com, but Fromm said those websites are for strictly residential real estate.

“This is a commercial listing, so you can’t actually put a commercial listing on a residential real estate website,” she said.

“It doesn’t work that way.”

The property is now listed with two realty offices, according to Fromm. She said the building is also being listed with LocationOne Information Systems — a commercial real estate website used by economic developers.

Fromm said the use of Facebook Marketplace has yielded the most interest in the property, including a showing which she said is scheduled for later this week.

The supervisors agreed to discuss the topic further during their Aug. 11 board meeting.

In other business

• Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken asked the board

of supervisors for financial support in paying for the city’s planned sports complex. For information on Goedken’s request, see Staff Writer Denise Lana’s coverage in this week’s Decorah Leader

• Winneshiek County Recycling Supervisor Jeff Kuboushek was approved to offer Alan McCuen a position in the recycling department.

• The supervisors unanimously approved Hacker Nelson & Co. to perform the county’s annual third-party audit.

• The supervisors unanimously approved a resolution from the Iowa State Association of Counties, which requires counties to submit the names of all county election-related officials to the state.

• Supervisors Vice-Chairman Mark Vick reported that, contrary to recent rumors, the Social Security Administration’s Decorah office is not closing.

The next meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 11 in the courthouse annex. The supervisors are not expected to meet Aug. 4 due to lack of agenda items.

DecorahLeader.com to see changes soon

ble of filling the role until then. “Joan brings over 20 years of experience in school finance, having served as the School Business Official for Oelwein for 17 years and Waverly-Shell Rock for several years before retiring two years ago. Most recently, she provided interim support to Charles City, including assistance with their certified annual report,” Cronin said.

to court documents, and on other occasions Weis was seen holding multiple items in her hands at the check-out station “and only scanning some of the items” before leaving. The combined value of the unpaid items during that threemonth period was estimated at $719. Criminal complaints were filed on Monday, July 21.

Joseph Aaron Viduya, age 55, of McGregor was charged with operating while intoxicated — second offense — and no valid drivers license at approximately 9:22 a.m. Saturday, July 26 in the area of Short Street in Decorah. A criminal complaint said the Decorah Police Department responded to a report of a hit and run incident near Division Street and Mechanic Street. An officer located the vehicle in a no parking zone near the Kwik Star on Short Street and determined Viduya was the driver. He was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 10:30 a.m. the same day.

Fayette County Sheriff’s Office

Robie Eugene Shindelar, age 37, of Decorah was arrested July 21 by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office on a warrant for failure to serve 28 days in jail. He was transferred from the Winneshiek County Jail and brought to the Fayette County Jail where he is to serve his sentence.

Miranda R. Baillargeon, age 40, of Decorah was arrested by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office at 1:51 p.m. Wednesday, July 23. Two warrants had been issued for Baillargeon — one for failure to appear on charges of fifth-degree theft and disorderly conduct, and the other for failure to appear on a trespassing charge. Baillargeon was arrested and transported to the Fayette County Jail, where she was booked into the jail. The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Allamakee County Sheriff’s Office.

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

The Decorah Leader’s website will be undergoing some changes this week. Updates to decorahleader.com are expected to take effect Friday, and additional changes will likely take place over several days as staff begins working with the new site. Readers should be aware previous e-editions as well as archived articles and photos may not be immediately available following Friday’s updates. Staff has been working with the newspaper’s IT providers to ensure the past content local readers expect will eventually transition to the new website. The Decorah Leader thanks the community in advance for its patience during the upcoming transition.

March 14, 1945 - July 23, 2025

Dennis R. Halverson, 80, of West Union, died Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in West Union.

Dennis Halverson

Dennis R. Halverson was born March 14, 1945 in West Union to Lloyd and Evelyn Halverson. He grew up on a farm near Eldorado, attended country school until third grade, and graduated 1964 at North High, West Union. He married Jean Sweet June 25, 1966 and farmed with his dad until 1969. Dennis worked for several businesses in the area including, Eddies Garage, his own repair shops, John Falb, Baumler Implement, and Fayette County Highway Department, retiring in 2009. His wife, Jean, passed away from cancer in 2002. Dennis married Betty Nuehring in 2003. They enjoyed dancing and Dennis also played and sang with several local country bands. Dennis and Betty entertained at many local retirement and assisted living homes. Dennis had

a passion for hunting deer and turkey, fishing, and mushroom hunting. He shot an eight-point buck at the age of 75!

Dennis is survived by his stepchildren: Brenda (Dan) Schmitt, Sandy Phillips and Grant (Heather) Nuehring; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and godchild, Stacy Jimenez.

He is preceded in death by first wife, Jean; second wife, Betty; siblings, Derold and Wayne Halverson; sisters-in-law, Shirley and Donna Halverson; stepson, Kerry Nuehring; step-grandchildren, Lucas Palmer and Kelly Gordon; niece, Connie Welsh; and nephew, Steve Halverson.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in West Union with Pastor Rusty Phillips officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church. Online condolences may be directed to the family at iowacremation.com under “Obituaries.”

Service Notice

Dennis Halverson

Stephanie Fromm talks with the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors about her efforts to help sell the county’s former Health and Human Services building. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

Forbes sentenced on drug charges stemming from November bust

Outcomes still pending for only two of nine original defendants

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR

A Manchester man charged late last year as part of an investigation into regional drug trafficking was sentenced last week.

Devan Patrick Forbes pleaded guilty on July 22 to possession of marijuana and failure to affix a drug tax stamp. The 26-year-old was one of nine individuals taken into custody after local enforcement executed a pair of search warrants in November — one for a vehicle and another for a rural residence west of Decorah. Forbes is now the seventh of those defendants to enter a guilty plea.

A judge ordered Forbes to serve two days in jail for the possession charge in addition to completing a two-year period of probation. The court also agreed to suspend a $1,025 fine and a jail sentence of up to five years for the drug tax stamp charge, but Forbes must complete a separate probationary period of five years. Both terms of probation may be served simultaneously.

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. 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.

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 he was driving. Court filings said 26-year-old Tyler James Westcott of West Union — whom investigators believe accompanied Nelson-Coonradt to Oregon on at least four separate occasions — was also riding in the vehicle. A search of the SUV revealed about 300 grams

of bud marijuana, 200 grams of THC wax 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.

Westcott was charged with conspiracy to deliver marijuana, possession of a controlled substance and failure to affix a drug tax stamp. He has since been ordered to serve two days in prison and complete a fiveyear period of probation after the conspiracy charge was dismissed as part of a plea agreement with prosecutors. The court also agreed to suspend a $1,025 fine while Westcott complies with the terms of his probation.

Investigators conducted a separate search at the rural Decorah residence on Highway 9 several hours after searching the SUV.

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, including Forbes.

Zachary Alan Sorenson — whom later records 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 the 32-yearold 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, and prosecutors agreed to dismiss a misdemeanor possession charge. Sorenson 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.

Court records also show 26-year-old Tyler John Dozark of Decorah, 37-year-old Lexus Briann Six of Decorah and 29-year-old Ashleigh Ann Sorenson of Decorah — 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, Ashleigh Sorenson entered a guilty plea in April, and Dozark followed suit in June. All three were ordered to serve two days in jail and were each placed on probation for two years — Six and Sorenson have both served their required jail time. Jacob Wayne Willitts, age 29, of New Hampton was charged with possession of a controlled substance as well as failure to affix a drug tax stamp. Willitts pleaded guilty in February, and he was ordered to serve five years on probation.

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. He and Nelson-Coondradt are the only two defendants with pending trial dates, following Forbes’ recent plea. Price is currently schedule to face a jury of his peers on Sept. 17. Nelson-Coodnradt is slated to have his day in court on Aug. 6, but a July 16 filing indicated the matter was to be removed from the court docket at Nelson-Coonradt’s request and scheduled for further proceedings — similar requests were filed by a number the other defendants prior to their respective guilty pleas being filed.

Forbes’ trial was most recently scheduled for July 9 before his attorney requested the trial be cancelled and a judge agreed to schedule further proceedings.

Forbes filed his guilty pleas a little more than a month later.

Local

Rotarian bikes

1,700-plus

miles to club’s international convention in Canada

Ward Budweg, Decorah Ro-

tarian and governor of Rotary District 5970, set off on a 1,714 mile journey May 23 from Rotary International Headquarters in Evanstan, Illinois to the 2025 Rotary International Convention in Calgary, Canada.

Budweg, a longtime cyclist, attended the national convention from June 21-25, just before he took the helm as district governor for Rotary District 5970 on July 1. The district includes most counties in the northern half of Iowa, save for those on the far west side of the state.

“My personal twist to being a district governor is to engage all members in a more physical manner,” Budweg said. “I am super hopeful that, during my club visits, members of the clubs will show their successes to me while on bicycle. Also, I will be giving a pair of work gloves to all members as a symbol of their continued hard work and future work activities.”

The 1,700-plus mile journey was organized by John Schultz from the Cedar Rapids Rotary Club. Leory Kemnitz from the Madison Rotary Club joined Budweg and Schultz on the ride. Schultz’s wife Rebecca served as support driver. The couple’s two children, Charlotte and Graham, traveled with the group and rode parts of days. The trek took the men through the Badlands, the Mount Rushmore area, the Big Horn Mountains, Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. They faced climbs with 7-9 percent grades and sometimes rode 30 consecutive miles uphill.

Academic Achievements

were:

Dean’s List

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville recently announced its Dean’s List, honoring full-time students who earned a grade-point average of 3.75 and above in the spring 2025 semester. Among the honorees were Jacob Bohr, a civil engineering major from Calmar, Hannah Franzen, a mechanical engineering major from Fort Atkinson, Megan Hageman, a biology major from Fort Atkinson, and Isaiah Kruckman, a civil engineering major from Spillville.

Local students recognized for academic success at Drake University Drake University recently announced the list of students named to its Dean’s List and President’s List. Amber Hussain, an arts and sciences major from Decorah, and Autumn

Schaller, a pharmacy and health sciences major from Decorah, were named to the Dean’s List. Sophie Weis, a pharmacy and health sciences major from Decorah, was named to the President’s List. To be eligible for the Deans’ List, students must have earned a GPA of 3.5 or higher during the spring 2025 semester at Drake. To be eligible for the President’s List, students must have earned a perfect 4.0 GPA during the spring 2025 semester at Drake. Drake enrolls nearly 3,000 undergraduate and more than 1,800 graduate students.

Local students make the spring 2025 Dean’s List at St. Olaf College A number of Decorah area students were named to the Spring 2025 Dean’s List at St. Olaf College. The Dean’s List is a scholarly award for students who demonstrate academic excellence and have earned a GPA of 3.75 or above and completed at least three credits for that semester. Among the honorees

• Gracia Larsen-Schmidt, English major, child of Brian and Kristen Larsen-Schmidt

• Jake Magner, computer science and philosophy major , child of David Magner and Sar-

ah Zbornik

• Alex McGohan, mathematics major, child of Gregory and LaDonna McGohan

• Grace Neal, nursing major, child of Todd and Emily Neal

• Nathaniel Roberts, Chinese

“I did not walk, but my lungs and legs told me to do so,” Budweg said.

The cyclists said a major highlight of the journey was reaching the summit of Powder River Pass, which boasts an elevation of 9,600 feet and demanded a four-hour climb via bike. They said low points included a relentless headwind for two full days in Wyoming and descending Logan Pass in Glacier National Park during a downpour and 35-degree temperatures.

“My hands were freezing,” Budweg said.

Budweg led a bicycle tour of Decorah in May during this year’s Rotary District Conference. The event was held in Decorah and was planned by fellow Decorah Rotarian Shannon Duncan, who was serving as district governor at the time.

Rotarians noted installing backto-back district governors from within the same club is a rarity.

“We were proud to see our past president Shannon Duncan in the role of district governor, overseeing 49 Rotary clubs in northern Iowa,” Decorah Rotary Club Co-Presidents Mike Huinker and Phil Iverson said in a statement. “As Shannon’s year ended on July 1, we now have another past president of Decorah Rotary Club in the role of district governor, Ward Budweg. His energy is obvious and contagious, and we’re so happy to have him serving as district governor. It is a distinct honor for Decorah Rotary Club to have two district governors in a row.”

August 9, 2025

major, child of Kevin Roberts and Katherine Elliott

• Gareth Sweet, sociology/anthropology and political science major, child Derek and Kathleen Sweet

Kaitlyn Rooney & Jake Muhlbauer

August 16, 2025

Shelby Schroeder & Ryan Schmalen

Congratulations to New Member Business

Technologies! Pictured is owner Danielle and son Ayden with Chamber

Ambassadors Marcia Madrigal, Heather Benzing, Amanda McIntosh, Dallas Steffen, Chris Hick, Ray Rinkol, and Adam Baker.

Devan Patrick Forbes

John Schultz (left) of the Cedar Rapids Rotary Club and Decorah’s Ward Budweg, recently installed governor of Rotary District 5970, posed for a picture near Logan Pass in Glacier National Park during a 1,700-plus mile bicycle trek to this year’s Rotary International Convention in Calgary Canada. (Photo submitted)

Ward Budweg of Decorah (far right) and his fellow cyclists left Evanstan, Illinois, in May to attend the 2025 Rotary International Convention in Calgary Canada. (Photo submitted)

Community briefs

Decorah Friends, Decorah Universalists to host peace crane event

The Decorah Friends Meeting, a Quaker group, and Decorah Unitarian Universalists will be hosting an origami peace crane folding commemoration event, along with a short video of the story of Sadako at 5 p.m. Aug. 6 in Phelps Park near shelter no. 1. Paper and instruction will be provided. Attendees are asked to bring a dish to share for a potluck which will follow the event. The inscription on the Children’s Peace Monument, in Hiroshima, Japan, reads “This is our cry. This is our prayer. Peace in the world.” Each year, thousands of paper cranes are left at the monument on Aug. 6 to remember the story of Sadako and the 1,000 paper cranes, as well as to re-commit to a world where nuclear weapons will never be used again. For more information, contact Bill Deutsch at 563-382-3699.

ArtHaus to hold reception for ‘Map of Somewhere’

The public is invited to visit ArtHaus in Decorah during the month of August for the exhibit “Map of Somewhere” in the Doyle G. Heyveld Gallery at ArtHaus. The exhibition’s opening reception will take place from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8 at ArtHaus. The reception is a free event with light refreshments. The artwork was described by organizers as both random and deliberate, with elements of both spontaneity and precision. “Map of Somewhere” will be on display Aug. 8-30. For more information, visit arthausdecorah.org, call (563) 382-5440, or email at info@arthausdec-

Thank You

Quilters’ guild to meet

The Northeast Iowa Quilters’ Guild will meet at both 2 and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5 for its monthly meeting. The meeting will be held at the First United Methodist Church — 302 W. Broadway St. in Decorah. The meeting may also be viewed virtually via zoom, and the link will be sent out closer to the meeting date. The program will be presented by Sharon Davison of Maquoketa. She is owner/quilter of “Dancing with Threads - Art of Quilting.” Davison started thread painting on fabric around 2014 and has received awards with her work.

“My goal is to inspire individuals to have new adventures in learning more tools to cre-

ate their own one-of-a-kind art quilts,” Davidson said. “I enjoy embellishing quilts by blending assorted colors of threads to show realism in a unique way.” For more information, visit neiqg.com.

Caregiver support group to meet

Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging will be hosting monthly in-person support group meetings from 10-11 a.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. The meetings will be held at NEI3A’s new office, located at 915 Short St., Suite 169, in Decorah. In May, the meetings will take place on Aug. 4 and 18. This is a free group, and all caregivers of people with chronic illnesses or disabilities, including new caregivers, are welcome and encouraged to attend. No reservations are needed. For more information, contact Kelly Kuennen, Family Caregiver Specialist at NEI3A, at 563277-6024.

Decorah Library, Luther College announce composting presentation

Decorah Public Library and Luther College’s Center for Sustainable Communities will be hosting a free presentation on composting, which will be given by Hannah Batterson at 6 p.m. Aug. 14 in the library’s lower level meeting room. Attendees will learn how to turn food scraps and lawn clippings into gardening gold during this informational conversation. This event is free and open to the public. No advanced registration required. For more information, contact Zach Row-Heyveld at Decorah Public Library by emailing zrowheyveld@decorahlibrary.org or by calling 563-382-3717.

Get-2-Gether planned for Aug. 15

Decorah’s Get-2-Gether — or G2G — Committee, along with Decorah Parks and Recreation Department, invite adults with special needs to enjoy yard games, bingo, dancing, and music from 5:45-7:45 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 at Whalen Cabin near Phelps Park. Mabe’s Pizza, Culver’s ice cream and beverages will be provided. Participants must register by 5 pm Monday, Aug. 11. Registration may be completed online at www. get2g.com or by calling the Decorah Parks and Recreation Office at 563-382-4158.

Summer reading winds down as Decorah Library looks to fall programming

As the summer season wraps up, the Decorah Public Library reminds families that reading logs for the Summer Reading Challenge must be submitted by July 31, and all prizes should be claimed by Aug. 31.

August marks a short programming break as the library prepares to transition into the upcoming school year. Weekly events, such as Wednesday Storytime and CircleSong as well as Stay and Play, will be paused for the month, and return in September. However, families can still look forward to a number of special events in August.

The Science Museum of Minnesota will present a hands-on program about dinosaurs, with sessions at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Aug. 5. Children ages 10 and up are invited to register for a Zine Workshop with ArtHaus, where they’ll learn the history and techniques behind the art form and have the opportunity to create their own zines.

The rescheduled Movie in the Park screening of Minecraft will take place Aug. 8, after the original date was postponed due to weather. Families are invited to bring a blanket and enjoy the film under the stars, with popcorn provided by the Decorah Parks and Recreation Department.

Younger children may continue to enjoy Wiggles and Giggles, presented in collaboration with DRiFT, and Evening Storytime will continue on Tuesday nights throughout the month.

For a full list of August events and program details, visit the library’s website or pick up a calendar at the library.

Lynch Family Foundation raises funds for community support during annual event

The Lynch Family Foundation hosted its annual two-day fundraising event on June 5-6 in Decorah. The yearly happening connected community members, philanthropists and guests in order to support individuals and organizations in need. The event included a Beneficiary Banquet on Thursday, June 5, followed by a golf outing on Friday, June 6, which helped raise funds for various causes.

Iowa State University Head Football Coach Matt Campbell highlighted the importance of community support during his keynote address at the Beneficiary Banquet, which was attended by approximately 225 guests. Aaron Thomas of the Ed Thomas Foundation and Ter-

ry Norton of the Chris Norton Foundation also spoke, sharing personal stories about the impact of the Lynch Family Foundation’s contributions to their organizations and others.

On June 6, 160 golfers participated in the annual golf outing.

Funds raised during the event will support a wide range of causes, including food banks, veterans and nonprofit military organizations as well as Chris Norton’s Wheelchair Camp and other causes.

Established in 1996, the Lynch Family Foundation provides financial support to individuals facing financial hardship, health challenges or other difficulties. The foundation also partners with local and national

nonprofit organizations aligned with Lynch Family Companies’ values, such as those addressing veterans’ services, food insecurity, healthcare, housing and more.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us for this year’s event,” said Gary Lynch of the Lynch Family Foundation. “The generosity and enthusiasm of our supporters allow us to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and organizations across our community and beyond.”

For more information about the Lynch Family Foundation and its mission, visit lynchfamilycompanies.com/foundation.

Local Lions Club assists Decorah food pantry

The Decorah Lions Club recently assisted the Decorah Community Food Pantry to support Healthy Kids Iowa, a pilot summer feeding program for SNAP-eligible children ages 4-18. The program is sponsored through the Iowa Department of Human Services in partnership with Iowa Food Banks and local Food Pantries. Decorah Lions Club President Charlie Smock presented the idea to the club members, and “they jumped right in” according to Smock.

The club will assist packaging food each Tuesday morning through July, as the Food Pantry receives additional shipments of Healthy Kids Iowa products from the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. There will also be two summer feeding program shipments in August.

The Decorah Community Food Pantry is busy five days per week, according to the pantry’s director Matt Tapscott, and he said the summer feeding program has been a significant

increase in food handling for the pantry and its volunteers. Tapscott expressed his thanks for the Decorah Lions’ assistance, and he said Healthy Kids Iowa had distributed more than 400 monthly meal packages to eligible school-age children in the area as of June 11. For more information about the Healthy Kids Iowa program, contact the Decorah Community Food Pantry at 563-202-0872 or visit decorahpantry.org.

Pictured are (left to right) Aaron Thomas of the Ed Thomas Foundation, Jason Golly of the Lynch Family Foundation, ISU Head Football Coach Matt Campbell and Erin Golly of the Lynch Family Foundation during a visit to Toppling Goliath Brewing Company in Decorah. (Photo submitted)

Photo submitted

sees as unneeded food to pantries — food that may go to waste due to lack of storage space at the locations receiving them.

“They broke a program that was working,” Tapscott said. “A pantry is an already-stressed emergency system, and we’ve got food sitting in the garage because of this.”

He went on to say there’s still extra food amid a recent uptick in people registering to use the pantry since early July, after President Donald Trump signed the “Big Beautiful Bill” into law. Information from the White House said the bill’s supporters claim it will reduce waste, fraud and abuse, but those opposed to the bill have suggested the cuts will negatively impact vulnerable populations and may lead to a significant increase in hunger and poverty, according to a Center for American Progress report. The new law is estimated to cut $186 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — or SNAP — over the course of ten years, impacting more than 22 million families. The bill will go into affect following the 2026 midterm elections, according to information from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

“There’s a sense that ‘You better find out how you can get food,’” Tapscott said. “Our numbers are always going up, but we have seen an increase in the last two weeks over what we normally see.”

Tapscott said the pantry is completely funded through private donations and small grants, and all its food comes from local producers, relationships with retail partners who participate in the Food Rescue Program and the Iowa Food Hub — a Decorah-based nonprofit organization which distributes locally-farmed food throughout northeast Iowa, portions of southeast Minnesota and western Wisconsin. The pantry also receives food donations from Luna Valley Farms, Lynch BBQ, Reicks View Farms, Fareway and other sources.

“This community is overwhelmingly supportive of this organization, which I believe is a commitment to not wanting our neighbors to go hungry,” Tapscott said. “It truly is a community pantry, but when we start whacking away at grants that support local farming, that has a huge impact on us. It

hasn’t trickled down to us yet, but we’ll be next.”

Tapscott noted there are subsidies for corporate agriculture, and he said there needs to be equal support to bring new people into farming.

“It was a really cool system,” Breckbill said. “It wasn’t just a subsidy that gave money to farmers. We were growing food for it, and it was going to our communities. It was exactly why a lot of farmers get into farming — we want to feed our communities, right?”

Tapscott highlighted Local Food Purchasing Agreement and the Local Food for Schools Program — two federal programs which guaranteed local farmers would be paid for their produce. The federal government made cuts to both programs earlier this year.

The Local Food for Schools Program, funded by the United States Department of Agriculture, aimed to enhance local food systems by purchasing food from Iowa farmers and distributing it to underserved communities through partnerships with food banks, food hubs and other organizations, according to the organization’s website. Due to spending cuts by the Trump administration and the Department of Government Efficiency, the USDA recently canceled the program’s funding.

Funding was also cut for the Local Food for Schools program, information from the USDA said. Local Food for Schools intended to increase the amount of locally-produced food served in public schools and connect schools with local producers and food hubs, information from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship said.

Breckbill said the cuts will affect farmers like her.

“For the past three or four years, we were working with the Iowa Food Hub in the (Local Food Purchasing Agreement), so we were selling over $10,000 worth of food per year to food pantries in that grant, and that has been canceled by this administration,” said Breckbill, co-owner of Humble Hands Harvest north of Decorah. “So, we just absolutely don’t have that income this year. That’s about 15 percent of our income — just gone.”

Breckbill said, because of that lost income, she’s now forced to donate her produce to the food pantry for a tax credit.

“I know that I’m going to have more food this year that doesn’t have a home, because it formerly had a home through the (Local Food Purchasing Agreement),” she said. “So, I’m going to be donating more food and not getting money for it but getting a tax deduction instead.”

Tapscott foresees the loss of those two programs causing some locally-produced food to no longer make its way into communities, “because the farmers can’t give it away for free.” And Breckbill said organizations like the Iowa Food Hub could potentially lose half their income.

“The food hub has been doing great work finding new outlets and new customers, but that’s just such a huge chunk (to replace),” Breckbill said.

Tapscott explained that in the past, when Humble Hands Harvest had produce available, the Iowa Food Hub had funding through the Local Food Purchasing Agreement and Local Food for Schools Program to buy the produce and make it available to food pantries at a reduced rate.

“LFPA was supported by federal dollars, but those dollars were going to Hannah’s farm, and she makes purchases locally with those dollars,” he said.

“It’s all so deeply interconnected that, when they start eliminating these programs, they don’t have any idea. The average person takes 40 pounds of food out of the pantry per visit. Whatever that 40 pounds saves, those are dollars in their pocket, and they’re staying in town to do their shopping and spending. All of those things work together to help put more dollars into the local economy.”

When such programs are cut, Tapscott said the pantry has a difficult time getting fresh vegetables, leaving patrons to purchase fresh food out of pocket, which he said results in less money for the local economy.

“Hunger is a policy,” he said. “(Legislators) don’t understand how this is deeply rooted in the basics of the economy in this community. I see people who utilize the pantry in establishments around town, and some people say they shouldn’t be there. Hogwash. I don’t care if they’re sitting in (a tavern) and spending five bucks. That’s $5 that just came into the local economy. Yeah, let’s just pull out all the pieces — it’s beyond the pale.”

Andersons inducted into Winneshiek County 4-H Hall of Fame

John and Pam Anderson were recently recognized for their lasting contributions to the Winneshiek County 4-H Program, as they were inducted into the Winneshiek County 4-H Hall of Fame. Officials with the club said the Andersons embodying the spirit of service and dedication which 4-H strives to instill in all its members and volunteers. Their involvement with 4-H began during their younger years, as they took part in local clubs, showing and judging livestock as well as completing other 4-H projects throughout those years.

4-H officials said the couple continued to foster a love of the club over the course of 25 years, as their own four children participated in 4-H. They were also able to assist with hosting club meetings and helping with various 4-H club events over those years.

John served on the Winneshiek County Extension Council from 2005 to 2012, where organizers said he played an instrumental role in shaping local extension programming and advocating for youth development initiatives. From 2007 to 2012, he also served on the Youth Development Committee, helping provide guidance,

leadership and support to 4-H members and volunteers across the county.

Officials said, in addition to their leadership roles, the Andersons have been steadfast supporters of the Winneshiek County Endowment Board, contributing both their time and expertise to help ensure the long-term financial sustainability of local 4-H programming. John has also volunteered countless hours as an auctioneer and ring helper at the 4-H/ FFA Livestock Auction, a role

which organizers said requires energy, charisma and a deep understanding of the agricultural community. The Andersons were awarded the Winneshiek County 4-H Hall of Fame award during the 2025 Winneshiek County 4-H/ FFA Livestock Auction, which took place on Saturday, July 12 at the Winneshiek County Fair. The couple is expected to be inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame on the last day of the Iowa State Fair.

Earning top honors in the Dairy show were Reagan Gallagher with the Overall Supreme Champion and Kolton Gallagher with the Reserve

Photo submitted

Keatyn Krauskopf showed the Grand Champ Market Steer at the Winneshiek County Fair earlier this month.

ABOVE-

Supreme champion. (Photos by Becky Walz)

RIGHT TOP- Landon Hemesath showed the 2025 Grand Champion Market Pig at the Winneshiek County Fair.

RIGHT BOTTOM- The Supreme Champion Breeding Meat Goat was shown by Odessa Oyloe.

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Farmers Union Cooperative is currently seeking a dependable and motivated LP Service/Driver to join our team.

July, 2025. CITY OF DECORAH Lorraine Borowski, Mayor ATTEST: Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader July 31, 2025

CLOSING MONDAY, AUGUST 4 - Lots will be closing at 4 p.m.

Large Online Antique, Collectible and Household Auction. Auction Preview Saturday August 2nd 9:00 A.M. to 12 Noon. Sweeney Auction Service. www.sweeneyauctionservice.com Waukon, Ia 563568-2464.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 19 - Macherinery Consignment Auction, Waukon, IA. Call Today to Cosign, 563-568-2464. Sweeney Auction Service. www.sweeneyauctionservice.com Waukon, Ia 563-5682464.

Thank You LAW ENFORCEMENT

right: Attendees at last year’s National Night Out event in Phelps Park had the chance to mingle with local law enforcement as well as other emergency personnel and area organizations. Some took the opportunity to get up close and personnel with McCoy — a K9 deputy with the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office who is to retire in August. His handler, Steve Nesvik was recently promoted to chief deputy within the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office. (File photo)

National Night Out August 5

Public to mingle with local law enforcement at upcoming National Night Out event

Organizers are preparing to welcome area residents during next week’s National Night Out. This year’s event will take place from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5 at Phelps Park in Decorah. The Decorah Police Department, Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office and Helping Services for Youth and Families each plan to have representatives on site, and the evening often includes a number of other emergency responders community organizations, offering free activities, food and entertainment.

The annual event is part of a national campaign introduced in 1984 by National Association of Town Watch — the inaugural event was estimated to include 400 communities across 23 states for a total of about 2.5 million participants. National Night Out is aimed at promoting partnerships between local law enforcement and the community as well as fostering a sense of camaraderie among area neighborhoods, according to information from the NATW.

“National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true

sense of community,” information from the organization’s website said. “Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.”

The event is typically held on the first Tuesday night in August. National Night Out takes place in all 50 states, as well as a number of U.S. territories and military bases. The annual happening, which is now in its 42nd year, boasts millions of participants worldwide. More than 44 cities in Iowa partake in the community event, according to National Night Out’.

“Neighborhoods host block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and various other community events with safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, exhibits and much, much more,” the organization’s website said.

Organizers of Decorah’s upcoming event said visitors can once again expect music, food and games in addition to smiles from local emergency responders.

Pictured

Above- A number of musicians provided live entertainment during last year’s National Night Out in Phelps Park. Among them were Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Deputy Byron Hook. (File photo)

Seed Savers preparing to celebrate 50 years

Representatives of the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce visited Seeds Savers Exchange on Monday to cut a ceremonial ribbon in celebration of the nonprofit’s 50th anniversary. Organizers with Seed Savers plans to officially mark the occasion during its celebration and conference, which is scheduled for Aug. 8 and 9. Jessica Rilling, executive director of the Decorah Area Chamber, said nonprofits like Seed Savers are sometimes overlooked in the public discussion of local business and economics.

“The importance of Seed Savers for our local economy is enormous,” she said.

Seeds Savers can trace its roots back to 1975, when it was founded by Diane Ott-Whealy and Kent Whealy in Missouri. Ott-Whealy had been given morning glory and tomato seeds her ancestors had carried

as they immigrated from Bavaria, Germany, to St. Lucas. The budding organization put out a call for other stewards of heirloom seeds who might be interested in preserving and sharing their treasured stock. About 29 responses were received at that time, and a sixpage listing of available seeds was typed up. Today, the nonprofit offers approximately 18,000 seed listings for growers, and it has become home to the largest non-governmental seed bank in the country.

Ott-Whealy herself said she often has to remind herself how much happens at Seed Savers these days, adding that if she devoted but one minute to describing each year of the nonprofit’s operation, she would be talking for nearly an hour. She went on to say she feels Seed Savers’ preservation efforts — both in terms of seeds and land — will become increasingly important in the future, amid

Milestones

Brad Hanson is turning 90 years old on Aug. 2. Please help wish Brad a happy birthday by sending cards to Bradley Hanson, 911 Ridgewood Dr., Apt. 214, Decorah, IA 52101.

continued development of land across the state.

“I love Decorah because of the environment this represents Iowa here in this little corner (of the state)” she said.

Planning for retirement can be

and ways

So, when the time is right, you can

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Seed Savers Executive Director Mike Bollinger said few at Seed Savers during the organization’s early days might have expected the business to grow into what it is now. Seed

Savers not only offers its heirloom seeds but welcomes the public to tour the grounds and preservation areas on the 900 acre site. He expects hundreds of visitors from all over the

to wrap up this week, and the project will potentially be awarded Monday, Aug. 4.

Goedken — with support of the Decorah City Council and Decorah Mayor Lorraine Borowski — is hoping the county board of supervisors will donate upwards of $500,000 to the project.

“With $3.1 million, we are still short,” Goedken told the board Monday. “We have private fundraising on the way, which has secured $462,000 so far.”

Goedken said the sports complex benefits all of Winneshiek County, not just Decorah, adding that nearly 40 percent of the recreational programs in the city are attended by out of town and rural residents. He said the county’s contribution is paramount to the city’s planned application for a Community Attraction and Tourism Grant.

“The CAT program requires city contribution, county contribution and private funding,”

Goedken said. “The county’s participation will help us in our application for an additional $500,000 in state funding towards this project.”

As the board listened quietly to Goedken’s presentation, several members voiced concerns about the project’s absence of lighting and restrooms. Goedken explained lighting would be included in future construction, and he said portable resthrooms were budget-friendly items which worked within the project’s current constraints. He explained that a restroom and concession stand facility — at a cost of $800,000 — would be included in the second phase of the project, and the facility would double as a storm shelter.

“Nobody likes to use port-apotties, but they are a whole lot cheaper than $800,000,” Goedken said. “We need ball diamonds first and foremost, and pickleball courts for the community to enjoy.”

Supervisors Vice Chairman

Mark Vick said he had received numerous calls about the complex’s proposed location north of the local Walmart, saying residents asked him why the city is willing to build an $8 million sports complex but was not amenable to the addition of a Menard’s store location in 2018, noting the business would have generated tax revenue.

Goedken said Decorah is arguably one of the county’s lead generators of local option sales tax revenues, which he said are, in turn, distributed on a per capita basis to all other incorporated areas across Winneshiek County. Additionally, Goedken said the city’s hotels and weekend rental properties would prove financially fruitful with a sports complex in the city.

“My oldest son decided to go out for club baseball — it’s an extremely expensive venture,” Goedken said, illustrating for the board how the complex would increase revenue. “You are spending all of your weekends into late June and July traveling, staying nights and weekends, buying last minute stuff you need at Walmart. The economic development aspect, not just the recreational aspect of this project, is why I ask the county’s consideration.”

It was argued during Monday’s board meeting that small-

continued from front

er communities in the county don’t have the same amenities as Decorah and don’t receive the same tourism development dollars. Some of the supervisors noted that, while many communities have ball fields and others have pickleball courts, they aren’t asking the board for additional funds to expand their sports facilities.

Goedken tempered the board members’ concerns as he reiterated the nature of local option sales tax.

“While LOST might not have a place in your communities or incorporated areas, it doesn’t matter where the money is spent, as long as it is collected in Winneshiek County,” Goedken said. “It is distributed to the county on a per capita basis — even if all the influx is in Decorah, it gets sent back out to the rest of the county as well.”

Goedken thanked the board for their time as discussion of the agenda item wrapped up.

“There are a lot of considerations as part of this project,” Goedken said. “We are hoping to finally have this project awarded, hopefully with your help.”

A meeting of the Decorah Parks and Recreation Board is scheduled for 5 p.m. Thursday, July 31 at city hall to review and discuss potential bids for the project.

Seed Savers Exchange founder Diane Ott-Whealy (center) cut a ceremonial ribbon alongside Mike Bollinger, the nonprofit’s executive director, as well as other Seed Savers officials and community figures during a visit from the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce on Monday afternoon. Seed Savers is preparing to celebrate 50 years since it was founded in 1975. (Photo by Seth Boyes)

United States will make the trek to Seed Savers during next month’s conference and celebration. And Ott-Whealy said she’s looking forward to the event.

Adeline Langland are observing their 75th wedding anniversary. The Langlands were married on Aug.

Local baseball players tagged as all-district

A total of six players from Decorah, South Winn and Turkey Valley were recently honored by the Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association with all-district nods.

Brayden Wemark, Gavin Knutson and Kaden Alstad received Class 3A Second Team honors for the Northeast District while South Winn’s Braiden Todd was named to the First Team and Carver Wenthold to the Second Team in Class 1A. Logan Busta of Turkey Valley also was named to the Class 1A Second Team.

Vikings Wemark, a senior, put together a 7-1 mark on the hill to be named one of the three pitchers on the second team in Class 3A. He struck out 61 opposing batters and gave up just seven earned runs on 27 hits, finishing with a 1.10 earned run average.

Roaming the outfield, Knutson made his mark at the plate with a team high 35 hits, hitting .380 with a .482 on-base percentage and .500 slugging mark. The sophomore pounded out 11 doubles, drove in 19 runs and stole a team-high 14 bases.

Fifth in Class 3A with a .412 batting average, Alstad capped off his career will the Vikings as an All-District utility player.

The senior rapped out four home runs and 12 doubles among his 33 hits and had 33 RBIs. On the base paths he had eight stole bases. Alstad climbed the hill for 12-1/3 innings, finishing 2-2 with 17 strikeouts.

Warriors Todd compiled a .463 hitting average during his junior campaign to lead South Winn at the plate. He knocked out 44 hits including five home runs which was fifth-best in Class 1A. Todd also proved 14 doubles, one triple and 39 RBI with a .592 on-base percentage and .789 slugging mark. He collected seven stolen bases. While earning his first team nod as a catch, Todd also found himself on the mound for 54 innings finishing with a 5-4 record and a 1.81 ERA with 77 strikeouts.

Utility player Wenthold transitioned between short stop and pitcher throughout the 2025

Brayden Wemark

Decorah, Senior Class 3A Northeast District Second Team Pitcher

season. Throwing 47-1/3 innings, the junior was 4-2 with a 2.66 ERA and 40 strikeouts, allowing just 18 earned runs. He also collected 21 hits and 20 RBI to go 17 stolen bases.

Lone Trojan Busta, the Trojan’s pitching ace went 3-3 on the bump this year with a 2.46 ERA. He struck out 52 batters over the course of just over 48 innings. Busta was a consistent run producer with 12 runs knocked in to go along with a .287 batting clip. He led his team with 23 hits and crossed the plate 20 times. Busta was perfect in the stolen base department as he swiped 13 without being thrown out.

Class 3A Northeast District Second Team – Brayden Wemark, P, Sr., Decorah; Brandon Cummer, P, Jr., Wahlert; Brooks Birdsell, P, So., Benton; Elijah Scott, C, So., Marion; Xavier Perez, C,

Knutson

Decorah, Sophomore

Class 3A Northeast District Second Team Outfielder

South Winn, Junior

Class 1A Northeast District Second Team Utility Player

So., Center Point-Urbana; Noah Krapfl, 1B, Jr., Wahlert; Joe Huinker, 2B, Sr., Wahlert; Jack Casey, SS, Sr., Xavier; Drew Fillenworth, 3B, Jr., Benton; Carson Nolan, OF, Jr., Benton; Jack Cantwell, OF, Jr., West Delaware; Gavin Knutson, OF, So., Decorah; Brent Yonkovic, UT, Sr., West Delaware; Tanner Anderson, UT, Sr., Western Dubuque; Kaden Alstad, UT, Sr., Decorah; Jack Wedemeier, UT, Jr., Waverly-Shell Rock

Class 1A Northeast District First Team – Anthony Harrington, P, Jr., Midland; David Schmitz, P, Sr., Don Bosco; Jordan Cota, P, Sr., Kee; Will Hansen, P, Sr., East Buchanan; Cael Benesh, C, Sr., North Linn; Braiden Todd, C, Jr., South Winn; Pryce Rochford, 1B, Sr., Ed-Co; Aidan Ebert, 2B, Sr., Riceville; Jax Steger, SS, Fr., EdCo; Jaren Lauver, 3B, Sr., Don Bosco; Cole Griffith, OF, Sr., North Linn; Payton Regenold, OF, Sr., Don Bosco; Carter Seitz, OF, Sr., Kee; Mason Bechen, UT, Sr., North Linn; Brady Van Scoyoc, UT, So., East Buchanan; John O’Donnell, UT, Sr., Riceville; Brady Wall, UT, Jr., Maquoketa Valley; Waylon Raue, UT, So., North Linn Second Team – Dalton Mudderman, P, Sr., Kee; Trevor

Larson to chair NCAA Division III Management Council

Luther College Professor of Management Rob Larson was elected to be the NCAA’s Division III Management Council’s chair at the July meeting of the Management Council. Currently, he serves as vice chair of the management council.

“Serving in this new role comes at a time of significant change at the NCAA and in college athletics,” Larson said.

“Being in a position to advocate for the interests of Division III student-athletes and Division III institutions at this time is an opportunity and challenge I look forward to. At Luther, as well as at hundreds of other colleges and universities, student-athletes make up a vital part of the college and the undergraduate experience. Working to support and enhance their experiences has been an important part of my work at Luther, and I am grateful for the chance to serve in this new position.”

The management council reports directly to the presidents council and handles the implementation of policies adopted by the association’s board of governors and the Division III Presidents Council. The management council may sponsor legislative proposals; make interpretations of Division III’s bylaws; and may also handle resolution of Division III issues and recommendations from other committees and working groups throughout the division’s substructure. The chair of the management council also is a member of the Division III

3A Northeast District

Santee, P, Jr., Janesville; Asher Ebert, P, Fr., Riceville; Hunter Curley, P, Jr., Wapsie Valley; Carew Kamaus, C, Jr., Lisbon; Talan Pletz, C, Jr., Janesville; Brayden Darling, 1B, Sr., Kee; Dawson Graham, 2B, Sr., Janesville; Garet Shannon, SS, Jr., Wapsie Valley; Bryce Boots, 3B, Jr., Lisbon; Trey Cota, OF, So., Kee; Aiden Hellman, OF, So., Don Bosco; Bryar Bellis, OF, So., Wapsie Valley; Logan Busta, UT, Jr., Turkey Valley; Liam Thompson, UT, Sr., North Linn; Carver Wenthold, UT, Jr., South Winn; Isaac Jones, UT, Jr., Janesville; Brady Koch, UT, Jr., Calamus-Wheatland

Presidents Council.

“We are incredibly proud to see Rob Larson step into the role of Division III Management Council Chair,” Athletics Director Megan Wilson said.

“This is a tremendous honor for Rob, and it’s an even greater benefit for Luther College, Norse athletics, and all our student-athletes. His leadership on a national stage will undoubtedly elevate our program and amplify the voice of Division III.”

Larson will also serve on the NCAA Board of Governors.

The board of governors is made up of 16 members who represent each of the three divisions of the NCAA and provides strategic planning for the NCAA, which governs intercollegiate athletics at roughly 1,100 colleges across the United States.

The board also initiates and settles litigation, provides oversight of the NCAA’s budget, and employs the NCAA president.

Larson joined the faculty of

Luther College in 2003 and is a professor of management in the college’s department of economics, accounting and management. Larson’s first engagement with the NCAA came as a member of the Division III Membership Committee from 2015–2019. He has also served as a faculty athletics representative to the American Rivers Conference since 2006.

Luzum, Hjelle earn postseason softball honors

The junior Decorah battery of Lauren Luzum and Clara Hjelle earned additional honors last week as members of the Class 4A Northeast All-District Team.

Luzum was also named to the Class 4A Third team.

Hjelle, the pitcher in the unit, went 14-10 in the circle recording 165 strikeouts this season which put her over 500 Ks in her career. She finished her junior campaign with a 2.74 earned run average, allowing 61 earned runs in her 156 innings of work.

Hjelle also provided support for herself at the plate with a .278 hitting average as she knocked out 25 hits and drove in 16 runs.

While Luzum sat behind the plate as the Viking catcher, the junior collected her two honors for what she did in the batter’s box. She rapped out 33 hits, including eight home runs and nine doubles to lead Decorah with a .385 batting average and .470 on-base percentage. She

Class 4A Northeast All-District Emerson Bohlen, Sr., Charles City; Kyla Schulte, Jr., Clear CreekAmana; Brenna Williams, Jr., Clear Creek-Amana; Lauren Luzum, Jr., Decorah; Clara Hjelle, Jr., Decorah; Kylee Bond, Jr., Grinnell; Rhiannon Reese, Jr., Grinnell; Chevelle Kingsley, Sr., North Scott; Megan Heyer, Sr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Kaitlyn Thole, Sr., Western Dubuque; Melanie Runde, Jr., Western Dubuque; Braylen Conlon, Sr., Xavier; Katie Pilcher, Sr., Xavier Class 4A Third Team All-State Alexis Havlovic, So., BondurantFarrar; Carly Busch, Sr., Boone; Anna Prosise, So., Central DeWitt; Emerson Bohlen, Sr., Charles City; Taryn Fredrickson, Sr., Creston; Lauren Luzum, Jr., Decorah; Brylie Lorence, Sr., Fort Madison; Clara Newton, Jr., Gilbert; Allison Koontz, Sr., Glenwood; Rhiannon Rees, JR., Grinnell; Brenna Leraas, Sr., LeMars; Kalyn Hackman, Sr., Maquoketa; Aubrey Deshaw, Sr., MOC-Floyd Valley; Tessa Dillinger, Sr., North Polk; Chevelle Kingsley, Fr., North Scott; Brinley Schroeder, Jr., North Scott; Lily Delperdang, Jr., Sergeant Bluff-Luton; Avery DeHaan, So., Storm Lake; Kyla Ramler, So., Western Dubuque; Maddyn Gates, So., Xavier

Rob Larson

Clara Hjelle Decorah, Junior Class 4A Northeast All-District

Lauren Luzum Decorah, Junior Class 4A Northeast All-District & Third Team All State

Gavin

Kaden Alstad Decorah, Senior Class

Second Team Utility Player

Braiden Todd South Winn, Junior Class 1A Northeast District First Team Catcher

Carver Wenthold

Logan Busta Turkey Valley Junior Class 1A Northeast District Second Team Utility Player

Slingin’ stones

Dozens of Nordic Fest attendees enter annual rock throwing contest

Dozens of competitors put their might to the test Saturday afternoon during Decorah’s annual Nordic Fest celebration. The weekend once again featured the traditional rock throwing contest. Dozens of entrants stepped up to the line — or more accurately the log — and in some cases hefted the heavy stones onto their shoulders before attempting to hurl them onto the grassy lawn outside John Cline Elementary. Each competitor was given the opportunity to throw twice, and the better of the two scores was recorded for each entrant. The event is also part of the weekend’s Ultimate Nordic Triathlon, in which contestants run the Enveløpet 5K, participate in the rock throwing contest and partake in the afternoon’s ludefisk eating contest.

Many of the top competitors in Saturday’s rock throwing contest were able to toss the stones more than 30 feet. Officials marking each competitor’s distance occasionally commented on the length the stones would roll following the initial throw.

Kanoløpet nixed from 2025 Nordic Fest amid high water

Nordic Fest organizers decided to cancel Saturday’s Kanoløpet — or kayak and canoe race — due to high water within the Upper Iowa River. Participants in the Nordic Fest event typically paddle along the river from a launch near Will Baker Park to the Twin Bridges area on Fifth Street in Decorah. Officials announced the cancellation in a social media post around 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning, saying “safety is our top priority” and highlighting other Nordic Fest events still scheduled for that day. Recent downpours left the Upper Iowa River somewhat swollen ahead of this year’s Nordic Fest celebration. Data provided by Richard Bernatz, a mathematics professor at Luther College in Decorah, said the city’s total rainfall last month was almost 1.5 inches more than average, with a total of 6.26 inches. Bernatz’s data showed exactly half the days in June had measurable rainfall, and nearly an inch of rain fell on June 3, with 1.79 inches on June 15 and more than 1.5 falling again on June 27. Data from the U.S. Geological Survey — part of the Department of the Interior — said the water level of the Upper Iowa River in Decorah had reached more than 4 feet by June 28. The river hit its highest point so far this year on July 23, reaching about 4.4 feet the day before opening ceremonies for this year’s Nordic Fest’ were held. The river had dropped to about 3.45 feet as of Saturday.

Nordic Fest Enveløpet 5K draws hundreds

The annual Enveløpet 5K and 15K took place in Decorah on Saturday morning as part of the city’s Nordic Fest tradition. Runners gathered near city hall that morning as the 15K began, and entrants in the morning’s 5K filled Water Street near the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce’s office as they began their circuit through the city streets a few minutes later. More than 450 runners recorded times during the 5K, and about 55 ran the 15K route, according to race information.

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Several runners dressed in Army clothing ran alongside one another during Saturday morning’s Eveløpet 5K. The event was part of the Decorah’s traditional Nordic Fest celebration.

Nicole Winke Gentes, a Luther College alum and Mrs. Iowa winner from Lansing, competed in Saturday’s Enveløpet 5K and finished with a time of 37 minutes and 15 seconds in the 50-59 year old bracket.

Runner Ida Lunden, of Bozeman, Montana, strode toward the finish line Saturday morning.

Runner Kyle Baer of Shoreview, Minnesota, smiled as the finish line came into view during Saturday’s 5K race.

(Photos by Seth Boyes)

(Photos by Seth Boyes)

Dozens of teams from around the country vied for cash prizes Friday and Saturday during the Nordic Fest Bags Tournament held at the Decorah Middle School practice field.

LEFT: Decorah native Abraham Van Vliet lets a bag fly during the bags tournament during Nordic Fest.

(Photos by Zach Jensen)