June 12, 2025

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Vol. 160, Issue 24 www.decorahleader.com

‘THE WAY OF THE FUTURE’ WinnMed moves ahead with plan to purchase robotic surgery system

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR Officials at WinnMed in Decorah are moving ahead with plans to purchase a robotic surgery system, which hospital staff said is expected to improve patient outcomes as well as help WinnMed retain and recruit surgeons. Steve Slessor, WinnMed’s chief administrative officer, received approval from the hospital’s board of trustees on June 4 to begin the process of purchasing a da Vinci surgical robot.

Decorah, Iowa 52101 email: editor@decorahleader.com

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DOING HIS PART: Tekippe adds wildlife murals to College Drive bridge supports

Representatives of Intuitive, the company which manufactures the da Vinci systems, previously told the board that, while the term robot may conjure images of an automated mechanical system, a human surgeon maintains full control of the robot during each procedure.

Current da Vinci systems feature a three-dimensional viewer for surgeons to work at a

Robotic surgery system continued on page 13

Dr. Erik Brink (foreground) tested out a da Vinci 5 during a recent demonstration inside a conference room at WinnMed. The hospital recently approved the purchase of a da Vinci 5.

Brink said he had previously been trained on a da Vinci Xi, and he found the ergonomics of the da Vinci 5 to be superior — which he said will likely allow the hospital’s surgeons to continue practicing longer than they might otherwise. (Photo submitted)

BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER A bald eagle will spend nearly two-thirds of a year building a nest, laying and hatching an egg, and raising her eaglet to a fledgling, but for Decorah resident Pete Tekippe, those same feats were recently accomplished in just 48 hours.

With paintbrush in hand and paints at the ready, Tekippe worked through the weekend of June 7 transforming the central portion of a large concrete wall beneath College Drive bridge into a mural depicting a large eagle and eaglet in their nest. Tekippe said the mural pays homage to Decorah Eagles — a bald eagle nest just outside Decorah that was made popular in 2010 via a global 24-hour live-streaming webcam.

The mural project was hatched

by Tekippe earlier this year shortly after he and his wife, Elaine, moved to Decorah from Story City. The couple loved utilizing the Trout Run Trail, with one exception: the graffiti on the walls underneath College Drive bridge.

ABOVE: Decorah resident Pete Tekippe puts the finishing touches on an eagle featured in a mural he recently completed on the side of a concrete support wall underneath College Drive bridge. Tekippe will complete two additional murals, a rainbow trout and a blue heron, on either side of his eagle mural as part of his project focused on covering graffiti defacing the bridge’s walls.

BELOW: Tekippe, a retired photographer and educated artist, shows Decorah resident Dennis Smock how he used the grid method to enlarge his reference picture while painting his Decorah Eagle mural. (Photos by Denise Lana)

Murals

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Swimming lessons returned to the Decorah Municipal Swimming Pool this week after being held last week at the pool inside the Regents Center on Luther College’s campus.

Making a splash at last

The main pump is fixed, the pH is balanced, and the Decorah Municipal Swimming Pool opened for business Saturday, June 7. Decorah officials reported additional work is being done on the water slide pump and mushroom pump to get those components rolling as soon as possible. Swim lessons, Aquacise, lap swim and open swim are now happening as scheduled at the Decorah Pool. Kathy Guyer, manager at the Decorah Pool, is pictured above on opening day for the 2025 swim season.

RIGHT- Karen Humpal takes an early morning lap swim. (Photos by Roz Weis)

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Lucas Fankhauser, 14, of Decorah, took part in this year’s 25K race.

The rising freshman at Decorah High School runs cross country and participated in the Crater Run's 5K race two years ago and completed the 10K last year. (Photos by Denise Lana)

Hundreds hit the dirt for annual Crater Trail Run

The 12th annual Crater Trail Run was held Saturday, June 7 — National Trail Day — at Van Peenen Memorial Park in Decorah, where nearly 300 runners and walkers participated in 50k, 25k, 10k, 5k and one-mile races. Cool temps and overcast skies made for mild weather, as participants navigated various trails, which included 613 to more than 5,500 feet of climbing.

After racing, participants cooled off in a plunge pool provided by Salú Sauna and Wellness Spa and enjoyed ice cream and treats provided by Sugar Bowl. Toppling Goliath was also on scene providing beverages and snacks, and aid stations were provided by Decorah Human Powered Trails.

According to race coordinator and event promoter Scott Searcy, winners received prizes donated by Toppling Goliath and The Hatchery Store, and there was a raffle as well.

Searcy added all funds raised by the event will be divided among Northeast Iowa Montessori School, DHPT, and Decorah Parks and Recreation.

Sisters Norma and Maria Guerrero, 6 and 8, traveled from Onalaska, Wisconsin, to participate in the 1 mile Crater Run. Norma said she enjoyed the race, especially all the kids who ran with her, while Maria said she liked the part of the trail where it was steep and there was an edge where she could almost fall off.

Paddle Battle hits the Upper Iowa The Upper Iowa River was a hot spot Saturday morning, June 7, for canoeists, kayakers and various paddlers participating in the area’s second annual Driftless Paddle Battle.

According to founder Steven Zittergruen, around 60 participants converged on Decorah to take part in one of two races-a 34-mile course which launched at Chimney Rock west of Bluffton, and a shorter 13mile course which started at Will Baker Park. Both races ended at Pine Bluff 4H Camp northeast of Freeport.

Zittergruen said some of the participants traveled from as far away as the Twin Cities, Illinois and Nebraska.

The event raised around $1,500 which, according to Zittergruen, will be divided between Pine Bluff 4H Camp and the Decorah Food Pantry.

Brody Holmes, 13, traveled to Decorah from Williamsville, Illinois, to take part in the event. (Photos by Denise Lana)

Hendrix Meyer and his dad Calvin, of Castalia, practice tying clinch knots during the annual Stan Shevik fishing clinic at Lake Meyer. (Photos by Zach Jensen)

Winners The solo long course was won by Abraham Van Vliet, who finished with Anna Ridenour and Jacob Ludeking paddle their way through the second a time of 5 hours and 28 annual Driftless Paddle Battle. minutes. The tandem long course was won by Isaac and Missy Pardonvarde with a finishing time of 5 hours and 47 minutes.

The solo short course winner was Logan Hahn, who clocked a finishing time of 2 hours and 40 minutes.

The tandem short course was won by duo Andy Johnson and Erik Sessions, who finished in 2 hours and 26 minutes.

Soren Zittergruen, 12, son of Decorah Paddle Battle founder Steven Zittergruen, waved to spectators as he paddled near Ice Cave Road.

Atlas Christensen, a red golden retriever belonging to Decorah residents and Paddle Battle spectators, Barry and Olivia Christensen, was oblivious to passing kayakers and canoeists as he reveled in a plunge in the river.

Seventh annual Shevik fishing camp attracts 50 to Lake Meyer The seventh annual Stan Shevik Memorial Fishing Clinic attracted about 50 people Saturday, June 7 to Lake Meyer. The event, which is paid for by the Shevik family, features fishing-focused classes for aspiring fishers of all ages. Winneshiek County Conservation’s Education and Outreach Coordinator Hanna Meyer said that in addition to the free classes, the event features a hotdog lunch, and door prizes for all participating youth, including fishing poles, tackle and tackle boxes to help them continue fishing after the clinic. Meyer said RSVP volunteers play an essential role in continuing to offer the clinic each June.

RIGHT- Georgia Goulson, daughter of Jenny and Rolf Goulson of Decorah, practices her casting during the fishing clinic held June 7 at Lake Meyer.

NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

3

Sheriff to begin search to fill civil clerk’s ‘big shoes’ Kinney to plead guilty to all charges in Spillville vehicle theft case

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER

The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office will soon be seeking candidates to fill some “big shoes.” Sheriff Dan Marx reported to the county supervisors Monday morning that the sheriff’s office’s civil clerk, Diana Wilharm, is retiring from her position at the end of 2025.

“It’s kind of bad news I’ve been dreading for a while,” Marx told the supervisors.

“While I’m very happy for her — well-earned, well-deserved — I have a problem. Those are big shoes to fill, and they’re going to be very difficult to fill.”

A sheriff’s civil clerk primarily handles paperwork and administrative tasks related to civil court orders and legal documents such as serving notices, subpoenas and garnishments.

They also assist with evictions, sheriff’s sales and other civil process duties.

Wilharm has worked as the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s civil clerk for 35 years, and Marx said a couple reasons it will be difficult to replace her, she is considered one of the top two or three civil process experts in the state, she’s a state-level civil clerk instructor, and “It’s not uncommon at all to have attorneys from all over the state reaching out to her for guidance.”

Texas man admits he and others stole truck used in Minnesota ATM theft

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR

A Texas man accused of helping to steal a truck from a Spillville dealership in January and using the vehicle to rob an ATM Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx briefly talked with the in Minnesota has reached a plea supervisors about an upcoming challenge his office will face agreement with prosecutors.

Winneshiek County Markell Deshawn Kinney, when Civil Clerk Diana Wilharm retires at the end of the year.

Sheriff’s Office Civil Clerk age 22, of Houston, Texas, was (Photo by Zach Jensen) Diana Wilharm charged with first-degree theft and five counts of third-degree criminal mischief. Kinney iniThe supervisors agreed that Frankville Road project will Marx said he was most contially signed a plea of not guilty cerned about the “learning Marx should find a replacement rely only on Farm to Market on April 18, but court docucurve” of a potential replace- as soon as possible, so they can funds only, and the project’s ments filed on June 3 show the have more time to train under cost has been reduced by ap- 22-year-old is now expected to ment. “(This) is not something Wilharm if needed. proximately $600,000 — from plead guilty to all six charges we’re going to teach in two $3.5 million to $2.9 million. against him. weeks or several weeks or a In other business: • The supervisors unanimousKinney was charged with • Winneshiek County Engi- ly approved a resolution to re- stealing a 2002 Ford F350 month,” Marx said. “What I’d like to do is succession plan- neer Michael Kueny reported codify the county’s ordinance. pickup truck at approximately the Federal Emergency Man- Winneshiek County Auditor 2 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 from ning.”

Marx would like to see the agement Agency is making Ben Steines said the ordinance Albertson Auto Center in Spillnew civil clerk hired by Octo- progress on paying the county needs to be recodified every ville. Court documents filed by ber so they can train under Wil- $49,562.72 for damages in- five years. authorities in Mower Councurred as a result of area floodharm until the end of the year.

The next meeting of the Win- ty, Minnesota, said staff at the “By the time you advertise ing in the summer of 2024. neshiek County Board of Su- dealership confirmed the Ford and find someone, you’ll be In addition to that amount, pervisors will be held at 9:30 had been on the lot at the end of running out of time, and … you FEMA still owes the county a.m., Monday, June 23 in the the business day Friday, Jan. 10. should bring them on board,” $106,121.99, about which the courthouse annex due to lack Kinney’s recent plea agreement Supervisor Steve Kelsay said. engineer doesn’t have a prog- of agenda items for a June 16 specified he “knowingly acted “It’s a matter of finding the right ress report. meeting. in concert with one or more • Kueny announced the person to fill those shoes.” other persons” while taking the truck, which Minnesota authorities said was then used to steal cash from an ATM some time before 3:20 a.m. that morning nearly 35 miles away in the city of Leroy, Minnesota.

Court filings said video surveillance at First State Bank in Leroy captured the truck “with what appeared to be a newer log chain attached to the rear.”

Court documents said three individuals in dark clothing and white face masks exited the vehicle and used pry bars to remove the front of the ATM before “hooking the chain on and ripping the ATM off the concrete.” The alleged thieves were captured on camera taking the cash out of the ATM — bank staff told investigators the maJohn Cline Elementary School, constructed in 1962, will come down when a new school chine likely contained between building for Decorah’s prekindergarten through second grade students is constructed. A $38 $20,000 and $50,000, and the million bond issue was passed last fall to pave the way for the new building. (Photo by Roz value of the ATM was estimated Weis) at about $35,700.

A witness provided a description of the truck, and a Mower to construction materials and instead of waiting for the fall modular construction was estiCounty Sheriff’s deputy later mated to save about $180,000, equipment could significantly bid day. It would help.” reported seeing a dark SUV and He went on to say that rely- and accepting what Zahalincrease project costs. He said light colored pickup matching supply chain delays could also ing on two different funds to ka called an “early structural that description at a location make it necessary to for Dec- purchase furniture, fixtures and package” could save another court documents said was aporah Schools to expedite some equipment early could reduce $250,000 by avoiding costs proximately a 12-minute drive the project’s budget by $1.15 during the winter. He also told facets of the project. from the bank in Leroy — piecthe board that simplifying exte“Tariffs are a tough one — we million. es of the damaged ATM were haven’t seen the market react in After considering a number of rior decorative elements could later found near the intersection a dollars and cents standpoint cost-saving measures, including save an additional $200,000. of State Line Road and 760th Other changes, such as reyet,” said Miron Construction eliminating some line items, the Avenue. The deputy attempted Project Manager Tom Zahalka. board is close to hitting the $38 duced floor lighting, eliminato stop the two vehicles, action of limestone veneers in the “Our budgets have still been ac- million project target. cording to court filings, but the Zahalka said the district’s commons area, reducing the SUV and truck split up during curate. But, the things we need to look at are things America budget constraints are not insur- size of the east side corridor on the pursuit. The deputy attemptisn’t good at producing — such mountable, and the design team the lower level and simplify- ed to follow the pickup along as lighting components and is prepared to make necessary ing the canopy design near the State Line Road and lost sight some kitchen components. The changes in the design develop- building’s main entrance — as of it amid billowing dust after well as elements of the early the truck reached a gravel porsteel market could be impacted ment stage of the project.

“We steer the budget to hit learning locker rooms — could tion of the road. The truck was too, and it could add expense.” yield additional savings for the soon found resting on its roof School officials are also con- the target,” he said. sidering an accelerated conZahalka proposed several school district. near the intersection of State struction timeline to potentially cost-cutting measures during The board instructed Zahalka Line Road and 680th Avenue — avoid increased costs. the June 5 work session, includ- and his team to move forward about a mile after the pavement “The faster we can move the ing reducing the second-floor with some of the design chang- ended. better,” Zahalka told the board. rooms in the northeast corner of es, and board members will The deputy reported a male “I like the idea of early procure- the new building, which would consider action on the cost-sav- — later identified as Kinney ment. Generators and mechani- save approximately $500,000. ings measures during a future — “crawling out of the pascal early bid packages are ideal, Using utility brick in lieu of board meeting.

Decorah School Board considers possible impact of tariffs on new elementary school costs

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER Growing concerns over the impact tariffs may have on the construction business prompted the Decorah Community School Board to hold a two-hour work session June 5 to brainstorm ways to reduce costs for the district’s new elementary school, which is slated to replace the current John Cline Elementary building.

Voters approved a $38 million bond measure last fall to support the project, and current projections indicate the school plan is approximately $3 million over budget.

Board members met with some faculty members of John Cline Elementary as well as a spokesman from the district’s construction company. The group took aim at budget strains — noting possible project delays and the potential that the district may be forced to reduce some features included in the building plans.

Decorah School Board Vice President Ron Fadness said, in light of what he called “the chaotic nature of our economy,” district officials should strive to prepare as much of the project as feasible sooner rather than later. Fadness highlighted the project’s need for steel, which may be affected by expected tariffs.

A spokesman from Cedar Rapids-based Miron Construction, the school district’s construction manager, indicated the tariffs on imports related

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Markell Deshawn Kinney Correction: A previous update on this case, entitled “Kinney pleads not guilty to theft mischief charges linked to Minnesota ATM theft,” appeared in the Thursday, May 8, 2025, edition of the Decorah Leader, and mistakenly listed the date of the alleged theft as Saturday, Jan. 10 rather than Saturday, Jan. 11. Staff regrets the error. senger side window,” and the deputy ordered him to halt, but Kinney “stumbled behind the truck” and was able to escape.

The Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office later detained Kinney after receiving a report of a male walking along a road in Iowa near Stacyville — about 1.25 miles from where the pickup had overturned. Investigators also discovered papers from the Spillville dealership inside the truck as well as an iPhone.

While investigating the theft of the truck in Spillville, Winneshiek County authorities also learned three privately-owned pickups in Calmar had been broken into, and each showed evidence of damage to their ignition systems. Last week’s plea agreement said the damaged vehicles included a 2006 Chevrolet K1500, a 2003 Ford F250 and a 2004 Chevrolet K2500.

Video footage obtained by the Calmar Police Department captured at least two individuals — one of whom investigators believe to be Kinney — buying gasoline around 12:15 a.m. Jan. 11 from a convenience store located less than 1,000 feet from each of the three homes where the damaged vehicles were reported. Staff at the Spillville dealership later discovered similar damage to two additional pickups on their lot — a 2004 Ford F350 and a 2001 Ford F250, according to court filings.

More recent court documents said damage to each of the five vehicles was estimated at more than $750.

Minnesota court records filed on March 21 indicate Kinney pleaded guilty to that state’s charges of theft, property damage and fleeing in a motor vehicle. He was served with a Winneshiek County arrest warrant four days later at the Mower County Jail. He was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 5 p.m. the same afternoon.

Iowa court records indicated Kinney is considered a habitual offender and could face enhanced sentencing, but last week’s plea agreement said state prosecutors will not seek stricter sentencing against Kinney if he pleads guilty to all six charges. If the plea deal is accepted by the court, filings indicate Kinney is expected to serve up to 10 years in prison for the theft charge and up to two years for each count of criminal mischief — the proposed jail sentences would be served simultaneously under the agreement, and Kinney would also pay more than $2,200 in fines as well as restitution to each of the victims.

Kinney was most recently scheduled to face trial on June 11. He remains in custody at the Winneshiek County Jail.

OPINION

4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

‘We are in a race to determine our future’

Don’t balance the budget on the backs of hungry Iowans

At a time when more Iowans than ever are turning to food banks and food pantries, a bill in Congress threatens to slash the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program by $300 billion over the next decade. As executive director of the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, I can tell you firsthand: this would be devastating.

SNAP is a critical lifeline for children, seniors and working families who are doing their best to get by. Cutting it, while also pushing costs down to states, shifts the burden onto communities already stretched thin. In 2024 alone, Iowa’s Feeding America food banks have distributed more than 61 million meals. That’s more than during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

These proposed changes would increase demand on our organization, food pantries, meal services, BackPack Program, mobile distributions and school markets, without providing the resources needed to meet that growing need.

The bill includes a cost-sharing requirement that would force Iowa to contribute at least $25 million to maintain SNAP, at a time when the state just borrowed over $900 million to balance its budget. It also proposes redefining dependents in a way that could require parents of second graders to meet stricter work requirements just to keep food on the table. That is not practical. It is disconnected from reality.

Worse still, the bill threatens to eliminate the SNAP-Ed program, which equips families with tools to make healthy,

Just my opinion

Based on 85 years of life experience, including some reading of history, I think that people don’t do well when selfish unfairness is left unchecked.

I am disturbed with how rich oligarchs corrupted religions and power-hungry nations have been allowed to dominate the globe. You can look around and see how it affects our state and local stressful existence. One of the first complaints from young children is, “It isn’t fair!” We don’t have good answers to that pea for ourselves or for them.

We are too busy manipulating

cost-effective food choices.

This is a proven and effective resource and cutting it will only increase long-term costs in public health.

SNAP works. It reduces hunger, stimulates local economies and supports Iowans in every corner of the state. A recent Iowa Food Bank Association poll found that 68 percent of Iowans support the program.

We are urging Sens. Ernst and Grassley to listen to those they serve and oppose these devastating cuts.

We have already seen reductions in federal food support through programs like TEFAP and LFPA. Food banks simply cannot continue filling the gap left by harmful policy decisions that pull support away from those who need it most.

At the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, we work toward our bold aspiration: Every Meal.

Every Day. Everyone. But we cannot do it alone. We need a smart, compassionate policy that strengthens, not weakens, our ability to meet the growing needs across Iowa.

Iowans care about doing what is right. Let’s ensure our federal policy reflects that. I urge every Iowan to contact Sens. Ernst and Grassley and ask them to oppose the cuts to SNAP in this bill. The health and well-being of thousands depend on it.

Call Sens. Grassley and Ernst today and urge them to protect Iowa families.

Thank you for standing with us.

Barbara Prather Executive Director Northeast Iowa Food Bank

the systems we have created and support to pretend we are the greatest and deserve riches and protection from the hungry people of the world. This kind of human unfairness doesn’t work for long. you guess at the consequences! Violent war threats, bully in and blatant lies will not save us. Goodness is found in human compassion and fairness. Act local with an honest opinion.

Don Fish Decorah

Decorah Leader

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Dear Editor: Since Jan. 20, the American people have been bombarded with a non-stop stream of dangerous — and often illegal — actions coming from the current administration. An authoritarian wanna-be has been sprinting to seize and centralize power before a strong enough resistance can rise up. Millions of people across the country are working to unite in massive opposition before his power becomes unassailable.

We are in a five-alarm fire, and we all need to be in the fight. We can each do something to make our voices heard - make phone calls, visit legislative offices, write letters to the editor, attend town halls, join a march or rally, or volunteer for public offices or commissions.

It has been said many times before but bears repeating - Democracy is not a spectator sport.

The current administration is working to sidestep and stomp out guardrails by: •Defying the courts - unconstitutional •Sidelining Congress - unconstitutional •Threatening allies - dangerous to national security •Disappearing adversaries unconscionable •Stifling free speech and dissent - unconstitutional These are the actions of a ty-

rant. Tyrants try to seize total control before the public even realizes what is happening or mass resistance can organize.

Donald Trump wants to be a king.

But we don’t have kings in the United States of America.

We fought a war in 1776 about this - the Revolutionary War. We also fought in other wars to resist authoritarianism and the spread of fascism. That’s why on June 14 — Flag Day — we will not stand by quietly as Donald Trump wraps himself in our flag and glorifies himself with a multi-million dollar military parade. That flag was first raised nearly 250 years ago in defiance of a king, and we will not let Donald Trump disgrace it as he tries to become one.

We are rising up across the nation to show Donald Trump, his fascist allies and our fellow Americans that we still have the power to defy and defeat tyranny. We are in a race to determine our future right now: tyranny vs. democracy.

Millions showed up for the Hands Off! protests on April 5 and came together again on May Day to remind folks of the power of working-class solidarity.

Trump’s power-grab is not slowing down, so we need to inject another dose of courage into the business leaders,

Big Beautiful Bill lies

Trump’s and the Republicans’ Big Beautiful Bill is actually a big ugly billionaire tax cut bill. To give billionaires their $1.1 trillion tax give-away, healthcare for the working poor, disabled, elderly and new mothers is being drastically cut, along with food assistance for children — Medicaid and SNAP. To justify this unpopular reverse-Robinhood bill — take from the poor and give to the

rich — Rep. Hinson and Sen. Ernst push big lies.

One of the most egregious lies is that “illegals” are getting Medicaid. The truth is that undocumented immigrants are not eligible for traditional Medicaid in Iowa. Federal law prohibits undocumented immigrants from enrolling in federally funded health coverage programs like Medicaid, Medicare and the Children’s Health

judges, academics, media figures and others in positions to stand up to him. We do that by showing up in massive numbers and showing them they are not alone in this fight.

June 14, Flag Day - No Kings Day - needs to be our biggest day of protest yet, with more people, in more places, making even more pro-democracy noise than ever before. There are over 1,400 No Kings events scheduled all over the United States on June 14.

In Decorah, please join us for the Flag Day - No Kings march beginning at Mary Christopher Park on E. Water Street, Saturday, June 14 at 1 p.m.

The National Anthem will be performed, and there will be a moment of silence to honor all veterans. A speaker or two will address the attendees, then we will parade up to the Winneshiek County Courthouse. Join us!

While at the courthouse, please stay on the sidewalks, boulevards, and the courthouse lawn.

The street in front of the courthouse will not be blocked off.

This is a constitutionally protected peaceful, non-violent protest of and by the people for the people.

Cheryl Wieseler Organizer - Northeast Iowa Indivisible Decorah

Insurance Program. However, this poll-tested lie is repeated frequently by Hinson and Ernst.

Another lie is that those who deserve Medicaid will not lose it. The Big Beautiful Bill makes deep cuts to Medicaid. Nearly 8 million people could lose coverage as a result of the Medicaid cuts.

If you care about the people receiving healthcare through Medicaid, like mom or grand-

My hope

I sent this message to the U.S. Congressional delegation Wednesday, June 4.

Sens. Charles Grassley and Joni Ernst, Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Ashley Hinson, Zach Nunn and Randy Feenstra, All humans want to keep what they have. There are many things in all our human lives we want to keep. My focus here is the job each of you have.

With your vote for the big bill, you may be able to keep men of power and money from setting a primary race against you. That could allow you to keep your job. However, damage done to children, adults and elders in Iowa can leave a question about your commitment to your constituents.

Your vote against the big bill can set men of power and big money against your keeping your job. However, the people of Iowa may look with favor on your actions to support their families health and well being.

Your decisions and actions will no doubt put you in a difficult position. Faith traditions teach us to cloth the naked, tend the sick and feed the hungry. I want you to remember the faith tradition in which you were raised and where you developed your values. These are my hopes for your actions.

Elaine St. Clair Decorah ma in the nursing home, a single working mother trying to provide for her children but unable to make ends meet, a child or adult with disabilities, then call Sens. Grassley and Ernst, telling them to vote no on this unfair, immoral tax cuts for billionaires bill.

Karen Pratte Waterville

Echoes of the Past

Meat incinerated in massive truck fire

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER

It didn’t make front page headlines back in 1935, but a Winneshiek County fire was certainly of interest to local newspaper subscribers. Here’s how the Page 5 story read: About 1,500 pounds of meat (sausage, bacon, hams and bologna) were burned when a delivery truck caught fire north of Conover (south of the city).

Alvin Wesselman was reportedly making his deliveries of meat to nearby Ridgeway when his delivery truck caught fire.

He drove for many miles without noticing the blaze. A passing motorist saw smoke was coming from the rear of the truck and alerted Wesselman, who immediately stopped on the side of the road. The driver evacuated quickly before the truck exploded. Damage estimates were in the area of were $175 (total) for the meat and $400 for the truck. Back in that era, prime rib was about 17 cents per pound and a whole ham was 13 cents per pound. In today’s climate – the meat loss would have been shockingly more substantial!

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YEARS AGO: 1935 - Headlines from 1925 read “First White Child

Vintage fire department photo Decorah Fire Department picture from Decorah’s Centennial Celebration in 1949.

Fires were well-publicized hazards in the area since Decorah’s beginning. The Department was formally organized back in the fall of 1876, and consisted of two companies – the Hook and ladder Company and Rescue Fire Company No. 1. In the “olden days” a bell was mounted on top of the fire department’s building to alert the crew and the community of a fire. The vintage picture, along with a history of the fire department in town, is included in one of the city’s “Decorah: A Walk Into the Past” markers placed along the downtown business district.

Born in County Visits”. George A. Meyer, the first white child born in Winneshiek County, visited Decorah in June 1925, and honored the newspaper office with a friendly call. He had been visiting his brother, L.A. Meyer and family from Ossian, and visited Decorah to see his nieces, Misses Victoria and Clarissa Meyer, Mayor A.C. Heck, and Frank Dessel. He was born south of Festina near Old Mission on Aug. 1, 1849, and is accounted as the first white child born in the county. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Meyer, had come to Old Mission a few months before from Indiana. It had been more than

40 years since Meyer was back in Decorah. Mr. Meyer now lives in the Old Folks Home at Dubuque. …A large crowd gathered at the Milwaukee train depot last Saturday to see friends and relatives board a special train to Minneapolis for the Norse-American Centennial there. Some 250 passengers boarded the train, which made two stops between Decorah and Minneapolis – in Ridgeway and in Austin. …Commencement ceremonies at St. John’s School Aat Fort Atkinson were held last Sunday. The program was an appropriate one, so that the young

and old could find enjoyment.

Eight grade graduates are Paul Chekal, John Rausch, Chas.

Neuzil, Angela Meyer, Marguerite Meyer, Anna Veverka, Georgiana Hlubek and Celia Poupe. …Following the trail of the stork in 1925 – A boy was born June 3 to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Stoen; a boy was born May 30 to Mr. and Mrs. Ed Broghamer; and a girl was born June 4 to Mr. and Mrs. Gunder Nerlie. …In the newspaper’s “Hints for the Household” section in June of 1925, families were encouraged to purchase the

Echoes

continued on page 13

OBITUARIES/NEWS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

John Reicks

Sept. 8, 1956 - June 8, 2025 John Francis Reicks, 68, of Lawler, died June 8, 2025, at his home on surrounded by family, due to complications from metastatic kidney cancer.

John was born on Sept.

8, 1956, in New Hampton, the John Reicks youngest child of Neal and Alice (Huinker) Reicks. He attended OLMC through sixth grade and graduated from Turkey Valley High School in 1974. During his high school years, John was a member of the wrestling team and proudly placed fourth at the state tournament his senior year. When he was a high school junior, he asked Mary Lynn (Lynnie) Bodensteiner to be his prom date. The relationship blossomed, and on Dec. 27, 1975, John and Lynnie were united in marriage at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas.

Together, they raised five children and built a life centered by love, faith and a deep devotion to their family.

After taking over the family farm in 1976, John and Lynnie worked together raising hogs and crops. John was a devoted member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Lawler. He served as a lector, taught CCD classes and was a member of the Parish Council. He lived out his unwavering faith through service to his church and community.

A passion for sports and storytelling led John to begin writing for the New Hampton Tribune and the Calmar Courier in 1997.

He reported on high school athletics with enthusiasm, attending many state tournaments, and he loved to spotlight the hard work and achievements of local student-athletes. He especially enjoyed writing his “Out in Left Field” column and being able to share personal stories and milestones. Among his most memorable columns were heartfelt reflections on the passing of his mother, Vernice; the loss of the family’s beloved dog, Bob; and a memorable journey to Albany, New York, with his son Zac for the 2002 NCAA Wrestling Tournament.

In 1999, John chose to pursue a new chapter in life and enrolled at Northeast Iowa Community College as a non-traditional student. He graduated in 2001, and continued his studies at Upper Iowa University, earning his bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2003 at the age of 44, all while meeting the demands of full-time farming and writing for the newspaper.

John began his teaching career in 2003 at CFS Catholic School in Spillville. In his retirement speech just last month, he flawlessly recited the names of every student from his very first classroom, a testament to the lasting impact they had on him. He later taught at St.

Benedict’s in Decorah before returning to his roots at Turkey Valley in 2007. He wore many hats during his 18 years at Turkey Valley, serving as the Physical Education teacher, Athletic Director, third-grade teacher and Head Golf Coach at various times during his career.

Whether in the classroom or on the golf course, “Coach JR” helped young people grow in confidence, character, and skill.

Beyond his work with students, John deeply valued the meaningful friendships he built with his colleagues, and considered the Turkey Valley staff his second family. John greatly missed the staff and students when he retired from teaching in February 2025 after receiving his cancer diagnosis and treasured their support these past few months. His legacy of service, compassion and commitment continues to inspire all who knew him.

John loved being outside and kept busy gardening and planting entirely too much sweet corn, tomatoes and cucumbers.

He loved to share the fruits of his labor with friends, family and neighbors. He also spent the last 25 years raising Labrador puppies, often timing litters around the holidays so his grandchildren could enjoy playing with the new puppies. A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, John was overjoyed when the team ended its 100-year championship drought with a World Series win in 2016.

He was a true extrovert and loved sharing words of wisdom and messages of hope. He was known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and the love he showed to others. John’s Catholic faith played a central role in the way he lived his life, and his spiritual devotion was a source of strength and comfort, especially during his illness.

Above all, John’s greatest joy and accomplishment was being a devoted husband, father and grandfather. As a devoted husband, John cherished spending time with Lynnie, whether they were catching up on their day, enjoying leisurely bike rides, or dressing up for a night out at the White House Supper Club.

He loved surprising Lynnie at Christmastime with a beautiful piece of jewelry or a stunning leather jacket, and their children equally loved watching her joy as she opened an unexpected gift.

As a devoted father, Ben, Zac, Ali, Abby and Annie each knew that his love was unconditional and they could always come to him if they needed advice or found themselves in a bit of trouble. He never missed a high school sporting event or a college apartment moving day, and only occasionally complained while sweating through multiple white V-neck t-shirts during each and every move. John also had a special talent for speaking at family events, and his tradition of delivering long, heartfelt

speeches at his children’s weddings remains unforgettable.

As a devoted grandfather, he was affectionately known as “Grandpa John” and took immense pride in his 13 grandchildren. Whether it was discussing sports, reading stories, giving Gator rides around the farm, or having them help with chicken and puppy chores, he cherished every moment spent with each of them. John and Lynnie were thrilled to be able to attend their oldest grandchild Carter’s college graduation on May 24, 2025, the day after John entered hospice care.

John is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Lynnie, of Lawler; his five children: Benjamin Reicks of Las Cruces, New Mexico, Zachary (Lucy) Reicks of Clive, Alison (Derek) Thompson of Decorah, Abigail (Dan) Bucheit of Ankeny, and Annalee (Cody) Fencl of Decorah; grandchildren: Carter Proffitt, Zoey, Fred and Harvey Reicks, Sydney, Elena and Drew Thompson, Frances, August and Vincent Bucheit, and Eloise, Franklin and George Fencl. He is also survived by five sisters: Lois (Lance) Thorkelson of Rochester, Minnesota, Elaine Reicks of Fayette, Carol Reicks of Sun City West, Arizona, Jane (Tim) Scheidel of Lawler, and Nancy (Tom) Dallenbach of Waterloo; brother, Mark (Karen) Reicks of Osakis, Minnesota; and in-laws: Shari Reicks of Waukon, Barb (Tommy) Howe of Houston, Texas, Mike (Laura) Bodensteiner of Washington, Texas, Kathy (Stan) Jirak of Monroe, Washington, Becky (Jeff) Eichenberger of New Hampton, Randy Bodensteiner of Gonvick, Minnesota, Julie Ungerer of West Salem, Wisconsin, Jack (Sherri) Bodensteiner of Nederland, Texas, and Terri Arends of Mason City; along with a community that felt his influence in countless ways.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Neal and Alice (Huinker) Reicks; stepmother, Vernice Reicks; brother, James (Jim) Reicks; and in-laws, Kilian and Elaine Bodensteiner.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 16, 2025, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Lawler with Father Nick Radloff celebrating the Mass.

A private family burial will be held at a later date Friends may greet the family from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, June 15 at the church. A 7 p.m. scripture service will be held. Visitation will resume from 9:15-10:15 a.m. at the church Monday.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests sending contributions in John’s memory to Heart Animal Rescue, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and WinnMed Hospice.

Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory have been entrusted with John’s arrangements.

ning two “Spiffy Awards” in the same summer. Donna’s laughter was contagious and she laughed a lot. She enjoyed her time with her clientele, telling stories and listening to them talk about the “goings on” in their lives. Donna made so many dear friends throughout her career and she cherished those friendships dearly. She loved to travel with family and friends on bus trips, traveling to places like New York and Washington D.C. She even traveled to Germany, taking a train around the entire country. Spending time with family was important to her and part of that time was spent dancing to her favorite country band “Blue Majic” which consisted of four of her six children, traveling with them to their many musical gigs. Donna loved music, playing her accordion at nursing homes, and showing her competitive side, joined a women’s bowling league. In her younger years, she played softball and eventually learned

to play the guitar. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Donna is survived by six children: Bruce (Yulan) Blumhagen, Beth (Randy) Withrow, Brian (Teresa) Blumhagen, Brenda (Duke) Ball, Becky (David) Henderson and Brent (Angie) Blumhagen; 17 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and four siblings: Donnie Bushman, Doris Lensing, Duane (Shirley) Bushman and Dean (Cindy) Bushman.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two siblings: Darrel (Eunice) Bushman and Dolorita (Richard) Kuennen; sisterin-law, Dorothy Bushman; and brother-in-law, Bobby Lensing.

Donna’s wish was to be cremated. Visitation will begin at 3 p.m.

A private family burial will be held at a later date in Festina.

A memorial has been established to the family to be designated at a later date.

Donna Blumhagen

Aug. 13, 1939 - June 5, 2025

Donna Mae Blumhagen, 85, of Bloomfield, Iowa died June 5, 2025 at Centerville Specialty Care in Centerville, Iowa.

Donna was born Aug. 13, 1939 in Decorah to Raymond B. and Julitta Christine Kleve Donna Bushman.

Blumhagen She married Dale Blumhagen on Aug. 5, 1958 in Festina. The couple had a dairy farm in northeast Iowa and later south of Pulaski, Iowa for many years. They raised six children and enjoyed 52 years of marriage before divorce.

Donna graduated from cosmetology school in 1982 and worked as a cosmetologist for 40 years; most of her career was spent as owner of Cutter’s Lane on the Bloomfield Square. Donna was not one to sit around.

She enjoyed gardening and taking care of her lawn – win-

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2025 Lawn Chair Night concert line-up revealed

Series opens June 12 with Sarah Morris performance

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER Decorah is home to a summer line-up of free, live music thanks to organizers of Lawn Chair Night 2025.

The downtown streets will heat up with musical performances every Thursday night from June through August.

The series is made possible by Downtown Decorah Betterment, Visit Decorah and Impact Coffee, with contributions from many area sponsors.

Those attending the Thursday night concerts are encouraged to bring their own lawn chair or blanket, pick up some food from nearby eateries and enjoy the weekly entertainment options.

The summer concert series will get underway with a performance by Sarah Morris at 6 p.m.

Thursday, June 12 on Washington Street.

This season’s schedule includes: June 19: Too Old Cat at 6 p.m. on Washington Street June 26: Family Fun Night, featuring High Strung and Fretless at 6 p.m. on Washington Street July 3: Jack Klatt Trio at 6 p.m. on Washington Street July 10: Songwriters Round with Michelle Ptacek, Brennan Henry and Michael McElrath at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Sarah Morris will open Lawn Chair Night 2025 at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 12 on Washington Street in Decorah. (photo submitted) July 17: Nordic Dancers at 7 p.m. in front of the Winneshiek County Courthouse July 24: Happy Nordic Fest – live music all weekend (visit nordicfest.com for a full schedule) July 31: Mike Munson at 6 p.m. on Washington Street Aug. 7: Blake Shaw at 6 p.m. on Washington Street Aug. 13: Special performance by Driftless Wind Ensemble at 7 p.m. on the Vesterheim Museum patio Aug. 14: The Bird Hunters at 6 p.m. on Washington Street Aug. 21: Jason Walsmith at 6 p.m. on Washington Street Aug. 28: A welcome back to Luther College concert featuring Driftless Jazz at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Jack Klatt will continue the Lawn Chair Night summer concert series July 3. (photo submitted)

Academic Achievements Nielsen named to Central College Dean’s List

Hannah Nielsen of Postville was recently named to Central College’s Spring 2025 Dean’s List. Nielsen, a member of the class of 2028, is among the 390 students named to the Dean’s List. To qualify for the honor, students must earn a 3.5 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale while

Service Notices CONSTANCE SANDE, 72, of Decorah, died Friday, June 6, 2025, at WinnMed in Decorah surrounded by family.

Memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 13 at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 307 W. Main St., Decorah, with Rev. Donald Hertges presiding. Visitation will be held from 4-6 p.m. Thursday, June 12 at Helms Funeral Home, 306 E. Water St., Decorah. There will be no visitation before the service Friday.

FRED PAHL, 62, of Decorah, died Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Aase Haugen Senior Services in Decorah surrounded by family. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 14 at Helms Funeral Home, 306 E. Water St., Decorah, with Rev. Randy Kittelson presiding. Burial will be in the Locust Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Friday, June 13 at Helms Funeral Home in Decorah.

CALVIN BIRCH, 86, of Decorah, died Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at WinnMed in Decorah surrounded by family. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 14 at Decorah Lutheran Church, 309 Winnebago St., Decorah.

There will be no visitation prior to the service on Saturday.

taking 12 or more graded credit hours during the semester.

Area students graduate from Coe College

Coe College recently recognized the graduates of the class of 2025. Among them were Taylor Peterson of Waukon, who majored in elementary education, and Cassie Wyatt of Decorah, who majored in kinesiology.

Hawkeye Community College announces spring 2025 graduates

Hawkeye Community College recently released the names of students who graduated during the 2025 spring semester. A number of area students were among the graduates.

Calmar: Breanna Moudry — office bookkeeper certification Cresco: Travis Brace — Associate degree in industrial

automation technology; Zane Wemark — Associate degree in automotive technology with high honors; Ryan Wilson — Associate degree in natural resources management with high honors Decorah: Tyler Dintaman — Associate degree in digital mass media with presidential honors Fort Atkinson: Carson Busta — Associate degree in liberal arts; Josseline Hageman — Practical nursing diploma with high honors; Alison Leibold — Associate degree in ag business management with honors Waukon: Sean Bieber — Associate degree in civil and construction engineering technology with high honors; Isaac Cooper — Associate degree in civil and construction engineering technology with high honors; Sean Liddiard — Associate degree in civil and construction engineering technology; Tanner Marting — Associate degree in CNC machining and tool making technology with honors.

COMMUNITY

6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Community briefs Vasile to hold songwriting workshop

The public is invited to join Paul Vasile for a songwriting workshop from 1-4 p.m. July 12 at the Center for Belonging Folk School in Decorah. No musical experience is required.

Participants will be invited to explore the process of composing short songs. Optional campfire singing will take place after dinner. Vasile is a church musician, teacher, coach and composer. To learn more or register, visit centerforbelonging.earth/ events.

Blood drives to be held in Decorah

The American Red Cross Decorah Community Blood Drive will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, June 13 at Stone Ridge Community Church, 1111 Montgomery St., Decorah. For an appointment call 1-800-733-2767 or visit redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code: DecorahIA. LifeServe Blood Center will be holding a Decorah Community Blood Drive from 12:305:30 p.m. Thursday, July 24 also at Stone Ridge Community Church. Organizers said summer is one of the most critical times of the year for blood donations, noting donations tend to drop while schools are out of session. To schedule a donation appointment, visit lifeserve.info or call 800-287-4903.

Decorah Public Library announces Dementia Friends Program

The Decorah Public Library and WinnMed are partnering to host a one-hour informational session for community members about becoming a Dementia Friend. The program will be held from 3-4 p.m. Wednesday, June 25 at the Decorah Public Library.

Bridget White, a certified occupational therapy assistant at WinnMed, will introduce participants to a growing global movement of people who are helping community members live with dementia. White has been working as a certified occupational therapy assistant at WinnMed in Decorah for more than 24 years and has extensive experience working with the older population in the areas of long-term care, home health and dementia care.

Participants in this month’s session will learn some basics of dementia, what it’s like to live with the disease and some tips for communicating with people who have dementia.

Organizers hope attendees can then turn understanding into practical actions which help someone with dementia living in the community.

For more information, contact Zach Row-Heyveld at the Decorah Public Library by emailing zrow-heyveld@decorahlibrary. org or by calling 563-382-3717.

Town and Country Garden Club celebrates National Garden Week

The Town and Country Garden Club recognized National Garden Week 2025 earlier this month. The club toured Hidden Springs Peony Farm - 18581 Houston County Road 4, in Spring Grove, Minnesota, on Tuesday, June 10. This is the 71st year since the Decorah Garden Club was first organized. Marian Rovang-Rude and Karen Guttebo are currently serving as co-presidents.

CICS announces kickoff event for new disability access point in District 3

Collaborative Individual and Community Supports will hold a kickoff event for the new disability access point serving District 3 on Thursday, June 12 at Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, located at 915 Short St., Suite 169 in Decorah. Organizers said the opportunity will serve as an opportunity to introduce the CICS team, share information about available services and connect with providers, community partners, clients and support networks across the district. A welcome for service providers and community partners will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon, with a brief program at 10:45 a.m. Clients and representatives of various support networks will be welcomed during an open house from 1-2:30 p.m. that day. Attendees are invited to ask questions and learn more about the services and support available through the disability access point.

Public invited to learn basics of internet, mobile devices

The Decorah Public Library will be hosting a workshop on internet basics at 10 a.m.

Wednesday, June 18. The program will take place in the library’s lower level meeting room and is open to all who wish to learn how to use and access the internet. Participants will learn about web browsers and search engines, navigating a website, and how to use search engines. The library will have a limited number of laptops to use during the workshop, and participants are welcome to bring their own laptops. This workshop is geared toward people who aren’t sure where to start when it comes to accessing the internet. Registration is required and space is limited. For more information or to register, call Decorah Public Library at 563.382.3717 or visit decorahlibrary.org.

The public is also invited to join Decorah Public Library staff for a hands-on workshop, “Android Device Basics,” at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 25. The interactive session is geared toward beginners looking for

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United Way of Winneshiek County now accepting guidance on how to get the 20 in the library. Children gomost out of their Android de- ing into second grade through annual funding applications vices. Participants will learn to 2025 graduates are welcome navigate their device, connect to wi-fi safely and securely, identify and use common apps, and adjust helpful settings. Participants should bring their own devices to the workshop. Decorah Public Library staff will be on hand to provide personalized assistance and answer questions. Advance registration is required for either session. For more information or to sign up, contact Decorah Public Library at 563-382-3717 or visit decorahlibrary.org.

These programs were made possible through a grant from AT&T and the Public Library Association.

‘Solar for Small Business’ workshop to be held

A free “Solar for Small Business” workshop will be held from 8-8:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 17 on the upper floor of Impact Coffee, 101 West Water St. in Decorah. Small businesses and farms which are considering solar and are located in Winneshiek, Allamakee, Howard or Clayton counties are encouraged to attend.

The event is co-sponsored by the Winneshiek Energy District and Clean Energy Districts of Iowa, both based in Decorah. The workshop will include short presentations by CEDI staff about USDA grant funding currently available for small businesses to apply for solar energy projects through the Rural Energy for America Program. Several renewable energy installers, solar lenders and a business owner using solar energy will also be available to discuss technical aspects of solar energy installations for businesses. There will be additional time for question and answer sessions and networking from 8:30-9 a.m. Free coffee will be provided at the workshop.

Business owners interested in attending the workshop are invited to RSVP at energydistrict. org/events or by emailing contact@energydistrict.org.

Diabetes Support Group Meeting at Veterans Memorial Hospital

The Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon will host a diabetes support group meeting at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 19 in the hospital’s ICN Conference Room, located on the lower level of the hospital. The support group is open to everyone who has diabetes or has a friend or loved one with diabetes. For more information on the diabetes support group, call Angie Mettille, certified diabetes educator at Veterans Memorial Hospital, at 568-3411.

After Hours Laser Tag to be held at Decorah Public Library

Area youth are invited to join Decorah Public Library for an After Hours Laser Tag showdown the evening of June

to attend, but only 12 participants may join each of the five 30-minute sessions. Organizers said 10 minutes will be reserved for discussing rules and suiting up, with 20 minutes for play.

Students entering second grade will participate in the first session from 5:30-6 p.m. Those going into grades three and four may participate from 6:156:45 p.m., with those entering grades five and six following from 7-7:30 p.m. and children entering grades seven and eight joining the fourth session from 7:45-8:15 p.m. Those entering grade nine and up through 2025 graduates may join the final session from 8:30-9 p.m. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult, and registration is required. Attendees must participate in the proper age group for the children’s safety, and safety rules will be strictly enforced during gameplay.

Registration is required and may be completed online at DecorahLibrary.org or by calling 563-382-3717.

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ing an increased demand for services while navigating uncertainty surrounding recent changes in both federal and state funding streams.

Eligible agencies must provide services within the county and align with United Way’s mission to improve lives and build a stronger, more equitable community. Funding is meant to support programs in areas such as food security, child care, housing stability, mental health and more.

The application deadline is June 30. Agencies may review eligibility guidelines and submit applications online at www. unitedwaywinnco.org/funding.

For more information or questions about the application process, agencies are encouraged to contact United Way of Winneshiek County at info@ unitedwaywinnco.org.

Namoli Brennet to perform concert

Namoli Brennet will be performing a concert live at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21 at Pulpit Rock Brewing — 207 College Dr. in Decorah — in celebration of Pride month. A $15 suggested donation will be accepted.

Free installation of energy-saving items available to county homeowners

The Winneshiek County Energy District recently announced a free service for Winneshiek County homeowners and renters to receive installation of energy-saving equipment. Homeowners may sign up for the Bill Savers program and, volunteers will install equipment which may help conserve energy and keep bills low, such as LED light bulbs, low-flow faucet aerators, hot water pipe insulation and more. Installation can often be complete in less than 30 minutes. Homeowners may sign up with the program by calling 563-382-4207 ext. 1 or by visiting energydistrict.org/services/ billsavers. Organizers are currently scheduling for Saturday, June 21 and Saturday June 28.

Homeowners unavailable on those dates may be added to a waiting list.

Winneshiek County Republican Central Committee meeting

The regular meeting of the Winneshiek County Republican Central Committee will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 17 at the All-Vets VFW Club in Decorah. Local updates and committees will be discussed, and all towns in Winneshiek County are encouraged to have representation present for this meeting. All republicans welcome to attend. For more information, call 563-379-4224, or email winncorepubs@gmail.com.

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United Way of Winneshiek County has officially opened its annual funding application process for nonprofit agencies and service providers serving the residents of Winneshiek County. Local organizations which provide programs and services are encouraged to apply for 2025 funding.

“United Way is proud to partner with organizations that are making a difference in the lives of children, families, seniors and individuals throughout our county,” said Christopher Miculinich, president of United Way of Winneshiek County. “This funding opportunity helps strengthen the safety net of support services available in our community.”

Organizers noted this year’s application cycle comes as many local agencies are fac-

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Luther class of 1966 graduates Gene and Miriam (Nelson) Takle recently pledged $1 million for the establishment of the Eugene S. and Miriam E. Takle Student Success Fund. (Photo submitted)

Ames couple pledges $1 million to establish student success fund Luther College is proud to announce that Ames residents and Luther class of 1966 graduates Gene and Miriam (Nelson) Takle recently pledged $1 million for the establishment of the Eugene S. and Miriam E. Takle Student Success Fund.

“At Luther, learning is grounded in community. The generosity of our alumni to support our students and their needs is a powerful example of Luther’s community supporting transformational learning experiences,” Luther College President Brad Chamberlain said.

“Gene and Miriam have been longtime supporters, and we are particularly grateful for this gift and the new ways that it will support student development and student success, inside and outside of the classroom.”

The Eugene S. and Miriam E. Takle Student Success Fund is expected to support a collaborative and coordinated campus-wide network of resources, with the goal of motivating students to attain academic success and achieve their career potential. The fund will also support the college’s existing early intervention programs provided through the Office of Student Engagement, such as Luther 360 SOS Referral, which provides a way for Luther community members to alert campus employees when a student is experiencing a personal difficulty so that an employee may intervene appropriately.

“We met at Luther College, and we are grateful that we were inspired and prepared to devote our careers to the teaching and learning process,” the couple said. “We are eager to support the administration, faculty and staff in implementing this new initiative.”

Gene and Miriam Takle

both graduated from Luther in 1966. Gene Takle is a professor emeritus of agronomy at Iowa State, and Luther officials described him as Iowa’s foremost expert on climate change and its impact on agriculture. Miriam Takle was a double major during her time at Luther, earning bachelor’s degrees in elementary education and art. She is a former teacher who taught preschool and first grade.

The couple has financially supported the Luther Fund, the Sampson Hoffland Laboratories on Luther’s campus, it physics department, college ministries, Career Connections, athletics and the Class of 1966 Scholarship, among many other efforts.

They have also served as class agents and reunion volunteers.

“Their giving has touched nearly every corner of the campus over the years,” said Mary Duvall, vice president for advancement at Luther. “What makes this gift even more meaningful is the humility and thoughtfulness of the couple behind it. We are honored and deeply grateful that Gene and Miriam have chosen this initiative as the place to make such a transformational and immediate impact.”

The couple believes that academics, athletics and co-curricular activities each play an important role in student success.

“Studies have shown that students who are fully engaged in their learning community develop a stronger sense of ‘belonging’ — one that motivates academic success and the development of career potential,” the Takles said. “Despite the current challenges facing education at all levels, Luther has a bright future with its innovative plan for developing the next generation of leaders.”

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

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School board hears plan for proposed outdoor pavilion Decorah couple would spearhead funding efforts

proposed shared community space. Other concerns included liability insurance, maintenance expense, utilities, scheduling of events and more ongoing costs to the district.

After discussion, the board agreed to seek further guidance from school project architects before making any decisions on the proposal.

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER Jim and Liz Fritz of Decorah have a vision for Decorah, and they hope to bring their dream full circle — perhaps on Decorah Community School District property.

Their vision includes a new outdoor pavilion aimed at addressing the lack of outdoor performance space in Decorah, and they proposed to the Decorah Community School Board Monday night that the pavilion be constructed on a triangular site at the northwest corner of the new elementary school. The area now stores several community recycling bins.

Addressing the school board during its monthly meeting, Liz said she and her husband, Jim, have long considered laying the groundwork for the venue.

“This idea has been percolating for many years,” she said.

The couple moved to Decorah in 1986, and they were band directors in the school district for 28 years, before retiring and making Decorah their forever home.

“The new school opportunity allows a look at a new feature to be included with the construction,” Liz said.

Private funding — boosted by a $100,000 gift from the Fritzes — would be utilized for construction of the multi-use venue.

They said the community pavilion could host a wide

A conceptual rendering of a proposed new outdoor performance pavilion was presented to Decorah Community School District Board Monday night. (Photo by Roz Weis) variety of community-based events and performances. Solar sustainability efforts would be embraced in the project, and surrounding greenspace would be developed for audiences to gather.

“The roof would be a waterproof solar array similar to what was used at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church recently,” Jim said.

Suggested uses for the stage included community band concerts, Art in the Park and Nordic Fest performances, New Minowa Players shows, Lawn Chair Night appearances and more.

The Fritzes considered the pavilion’s potential location on school district property after looking at other sites within the downtown business district.

They said the pavilion could enhance under-utilized space at the elementary school campus

and that there is flexibility of placement on the proposed site.

After construction, the privately funded pavilion would be owned and operated by the school district, Liz said.

“No school money would be used,” Jim said. “All fundraising would be through Northeast Iowa Community Foundation.

But, we would need permission to build on school property.”

Following the presentation, board members expressed several concerns about the size of the suggested space. They questioned whether the proposed location would be large enough to allow for construction of the pavilion. The Fritzes said the venue is designed to be the approximate size of the current high school auditorium stage.

Board members also considered the impact of the district’s continued responsibilities for day-to-day operations of the

2025-26 budget approved A revised 2025-26 school budget was approved — decreasing the city’s tax rate to $13.1729 instead of the previously-approved amount of $13.55 per $1,000 of taxable valuation. The property tax rate for the school year was set without the State Supplemental Aid being finalized by state law makers. State legislators eventually passed a 2 percent increase in SSA but only after the board’s budget deadline earlier this spring.

Yearly contracts Board members endorsed yearly contracts for essential school operations, including legal services, tax audits, food service bids and more. Current legal counsel Ahlers & Cooney, P.C. will continue to advise the board in the coming year. Local accounting firm Hacker-Nelson & Co., P.C. will complete the school’s audits for the next two years. A low bid for milk from Anderson Erickson Dairy and a bread and bakery low bid from Pan

Decorah Community School District Superintendent Tim Cronin, right, presented retiring John Cline Elementary School Principal Rick Varney with a certificate of appreciation for his 20 years of service to the district during Monday night’s school board meeting. (Photo by Roz Weis)

O’Gold were also approved.

Also approved at Monday night’s meeting was an increase in substitute teacher salaries from $145 per day to $150 per day. Additionally, school activity passes will be available through Go Bound for the second year, with a few changes.

An adult pass to an event will increase to $7, and student admission will be $5 per event.

A student activity pass for the school year will be available for $50. Punch cards are also available for purchase, with

costs ranging from $30 for five events to $120 for a 20-event punch pass.

The board accepted a $34,382.78 bid for the annual Canvas Studio Cloud subscription for all schools in the district. Canvas Studio is a communication tool allowing instructors and students to actively collaborate through video and audio media.

The board’s next monthly meeting is 5:30 p.m., Monday, July 21.

WinnMed Hospice announces details of annual memorial ride The annual WinnMed Hospice Memorial Ride is set for Sunday, June 22. The event will begin on the WinnMed campus in Decorah with a free-will donation breakfast and will be held rain or shine.

The breakfast will be available from 9-10:30 a.m. in the WinnMed cafeteria — the public is welcome to attend, whether participating in the ride or not.

Parking will be available in the hospital’s Lot F. All vehicles are welcome to participate in the planned poker run. The ride entry fee is $20 per entry, and sign-in will be available at WinnMed during that morning’s breakfast. Bikes and cars will take off at 11 a.m. from WinnMed to begin the poker run. Participants will tour the roads of northeast Iowa and end at 4:30 p.m. at Pivo Brewery in Calmar, where a silent

auction fundraiser, with door prizes and refreshments.

The 2025 event will support specialty services for hospice patients, including pet therapy, music therapy, massage therapy, and veteran’s services.

“There are many benefits to the complimentary therapies provided through WinnMed Hospice,” said Nancy Haberichter, director of WinnMed Hospice. “For hospice patients dealing with both physical and emotional pain and anxiety, the therapies can provide positive changes in mood, relaxation, peace and comfort.

They reduce anxiety and stress and bring on more social interaction with caregivers and families. These therapies inevitably bring a smile to the faces of patients, which in turn, is a gift to both hospice staff as well as to families.”

WinnMed Hospice provides end-of-life care which ensures quality of life, compassion and comfort for patients and their loved ones. Services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to patients and families in Allamakee, Clayton, Chickasaw, Fayette, Howard and Winneshiek Counties.

“We have received such wonderful support from the communities we serve,” Haberichter said. “We are extremely happy to provide all these therapies to our patients and excited to offer Veteran services as well. The Hospice Memorial Ride donations will help to keep these therapies available for a long time to come.”

For more information on the Hospice Memorial Ride, contact WinnMed Hospice at 563387-3024.

Pictured are (front row left to right) Emily Falck, HCA, registered nurse Jen Nahl, pet therapist Dr. Merill Guarneri, registered nurse Sam Sherwood, (back row left to right) registered nurse Nicole Reicks, social worker Melissa Whelan, administrator Dee Heying, registered nurse Jill Shindelar, registered nurse Olivia Wenthold, registered nurse Keegan Luzum, Stacy Hamm, HCA, and registered nurse Mary Wagner. (Photo submitted)

Murals Tekippe recently retired after 45 years as a studio photographer in Story City, where

two years ago, he was part of a trio of artists who designed and painted a 2,880-square-foot George Tekippe, Pete Tekippe’s sibling, works alongside his brother, prepping concrete surfaces by filling holes and cracks before the primer layer is applied. (Photo

by Denise Lana)

mural on the side of a building.

Tekippe, who hadn’t painted or drawn since college, said his love of painting was reinvigorated by the project.

“You know, painting is like riding a bike — you don’t do it for years, then you hop back on a bike and pick up where you left off,” Tekippe said.

After moving to Decorah and seeing the graffiti, Tekippe approached the city council with an offer to paint murals over the defaced concrete. If the paint and supplies were paid for, the retired artist said he would donate his time and talent.

City Council members Kirsten Olson and Christopher Miculinich worked in tandem to coordinate funding, and the city’s Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District organization provided $1,600 for the project’s costs. Additionally, Ace Hardware of Decorah offered Tekippe a 20 percent discount on all paints and supplies.

Tekippe, with help from his brother, George Tekippe of Decorah, started on the first of three murals Saturday morning. Future murals will include a rain-

bow trout jumping out of the water and one of a blue heron.

Tekippe anticipates that all three murals will be completed and sealed within the next several weeks but said he could be delayed. His project has drawn the attention of trail users and numerous passersby — many of whom stop to take pictures and chat with the artist.

“Sunday I was painting, and I could barely work on it from so many people stopping,” Tekippe said.

Shortly after saying that, the artist was approached by Decorah couple Dennis and Emmarene Smock, who stopped by to admire the mural.

“I think it’s amazing,” Emmarene said. “What a gift to Decorah.”

In addition to painting murals to cover graffiti, Tekippe uses a neutral gray paint to cover other vandalized surfaces under the bridge, adding he doesn’t dismiss the possibility of creating future murals on those painted surfaces.

Although Tekippe downplays his painting talents — insisting it’s just a hobby — his painting of an owl recently earned Best

in Show at the Iowa Artist Region 3 Art Show held in Calmar.

That owl now hangs in Rubaiyat, 117 W. Water St., Decorah, alongside four additional pieces

continued from front

he painted.

“Decorah is a fabulous place, and my wife and I love doing our part,” Tekippe said. “This is my community service.”

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

9

Congratulations

State Qualifiers!

The Decorah girls 4x100 relay took seventh overall with team members (l-r) Audrey Essa, Cassandra Stammeyer, Stella Pole and Addisyn Ivy.

Senior Kaden Barton-Franzen cleared the high jump bar at 6 feet, 1 inch to secure seventh place at state.

Teaming up for Decorah's shuttle hurdle relay were (l-r) Kelby Kerndt, Addisyn Ivy, Kennady Riehle and Renae Wilson.

SW's Ava Franzen, Annie Hageman, Karissa Wenthold and Adele Conway finished the 4x800 in 18th place.

Taking eighth in the sprint medley relay were (l-r) Maddy Jansen, Cloey Zweibohmer, Allison Hageman and Katie Shimek. (Photo courtesy of Nate Troy/Cresco Times Plain Dealer)

Members of the Vikings 12th place distance medley relay were (l-r) Landon Quandahl, Joshua Adam, Trevor Kuennen and Bennett Coppola.

Members of the distance medley relay for the Trojans included (l-r) Kendall Kuennen, Brynlee Hayek, Bella Stika and Hazel Nieman.

Earning 12th place in the 4x400 relay for the Vikings were (l-r) Lillian Olson, Stella Pole, Renae Wilson and McKenzie Riley.

Decorah's Peyton Webb took on the high jump at state, finishing 16th overall.

Competing as members of the Warrior 4x100 were (l-r) Eric Greve, Lukas Weiss, Brennan Franzen and Irving Flores.

SW freshman Cameron Einck wrapped up the season in 23rd in the 3200-meter run.

Viking Clarence Nimrod earned 21st place in the 3200-meter run.

Warrior Hugh Conway crossed the 3200-meter run finish line in seventh and fifth in the 1500-meter run.

Cloey Zweibohmer raced to 21st place in the 100-meter dash at state.

Running the 4x400 relay were (l-r) Maddy Jansen, Katie Shimek, Alexis Johanningmeier and Adele Conway.

Josh Adam represented Decorah in the 110-meter hurdles to a 20th place.

Decorah's William Hahn took home 12th in the shot put and 10th in the discus.

Decorah junior Renae Wilson won a pair of bronze medals including the 100-meter hurdles and the high jump.

The Decorah boys tennis team took fourth at the Class 1A state team tournament. Members surrounding the trophy include (front, l-r) Tyler Shaw, Keaton Nalean-Carlson, Liam Chamberlain, Beau Newhouse; (back) head coach Matt Anderson, Aitor Cuevas, Tristan Hunter, Elliot Berland, Caleb Krieg, assistant coach Brett Wilker and assistant coach Scott Hermann.

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Maddy Jansen claimed fifth in the 400-meter dash for South Winn.

Viking Garrett See competed in the 1600-meter run at state, finishing 24th.

Maddy Jansen, Cloey Zweibohmer, Alexis Johanningmeier and Katie Shimek (l-r) teamed up for 11th in the 4x200.

Decorah's 4x200 relay stepped up to the podium with its runner-up finish.

Members of the relay were Cassandra Stammeyer, Audrey Essa, Stella Pole and McKenzie Riley. The same quartet competed in the sprint medley relay in which they finished sixth.

Decorah sophomores Elliot Berland (left) and Tristan Hunter competed in the state doubles tennis tournament.

Taking eighth at the state doubles tennis tournament was the Viking senior duo Caleb Krieg (left) and Liam Chamberlain.

The South Winn boys golf team took runner-up at the Class 1A state tournament.

Members of the team included (l-r) Matson Winings, Braiden Todd, Carver Wenthold, Jackson Goltz, Cale Kleppe and Carson Streeter.

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Combining for a fifth place finish in the 4x800 relay were Vikings (l-r) Mitchell Stemper, Bill Fullhart, Thomas Hammel and Grant Zilka.

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Viking junior Keaton Nalean-Carlson took eighth at the state individual boys' tennis tournament.

The Viking 4x100 relay of (l-r) Peyton Webb, Zach Driscoll, Joshua Adam and Landon Quandahl took 11th overall.

Members of the Lady Trojan 4x400 relay at state were (l-r) Hazel Nieman, Kendall Kuennen, Bella Stika and Alexis Gruenberg.

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Taking home 10th at the Class 1A state golf tournament was Turkey Valley's Nicholas Bernhard.

Decorah freshman Cassandra Stammeyer took home 16th in the 100-meter dash in 12.64 seconds.

Representing Turkey Valley in the sprint medley relay at state were (l-r) Hazel Nieman, Jenna Throndson, Kendall Kuennen and Bella Stika.

South Winn junior Carson Streeter took home fourth overall at the Class 1A state golf tournament.

Crossing the finishing 13th in the 4x400 relay for Decorah were (l-r) Trevor Kuennen, Max Grimstad, Mason Avila and Mitchell Stemper.

TV's Bella Stika competed in the 800-meter run, finishing in 2:32.72.

It was a dynamic duo for the Vikes in the shot put as Lauren Luzum (left) took third and Grace Tangen earned fifth. Tangen also won fifth in the discus.

TV's Hazel Nieman hit the track in the 400-meter dash, finishing 19th.

Mitchell Stemper (left) and Thomas Hammel raced their way around the track in the 800-meter run.

Stemper finished seventh while Hammel took 18th.

Sisters Grace (left) and Olivia Huinker claimed bronze at the state doubles tennis tournament.

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10 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Area veterans receive Quilts of Valor To commemorate Juneteenth, Luther College’s Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support is hosting a day trip to Waterloo on Saturday, June 21. (Photo submitted)

The Decorah Quilts Of Valor No. 541 awarded quilts to six area veterans on Memorial Day at The All Vets Club in Decorah, Iowa. Recipients were (back row) Zachary Shearer, Jim L. Hauber, (front row) Ben Rustad, John Novshek, Milton Nelson and Raymond Hansen. To nominate a veteran or service member, call Mary Engan at 563-419-1711.

(Photo submitted)

Luther to commemorate Juneteenth with trip to Waterloo First phase of Fort Atkinson City Park

To commemorate Juneteenth, Luther College’s Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support will be hosting a day trip to Waterloo on Saturday, June 21. The trip’s itinerary includes a visit to the African American Historical and Cultural Museum, lunch at Rodney’s Kitchen and the 30th annual Juneteenth Celebration at Sullivan Memorial Park.

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Africans and African Americans. On June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation

Proclamation was signed, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to notify the more than 250,000 remaining enslaved Africans they were now free. Although Juneteenth is the newest federal holiday gaining recognition in 2021, African Americans have celebrated the day for decades.

The trip will depart from the front of the Dahl Centennial Union at 9 a.m. and return to Decorah at 6 p.m. The cost, which includes transportation, lunch and admission, is $10 per person. The deadline to reserve

a spot is Friday, June 13. For more information, email cies@ luther.edu.

In addition to the day trip to Waterloo, CIES invites community members to a lunchand-learn event which will begin at noon Wednesday, June 11 in the Mott Room, which will feature a screening of the 2022 documentary “Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom.”

In addition, Luther College will observe Juneteenth as an administrative and federal holiday.

Decorah Public Library announces June book discussions Decorah Public Library staff will be hosting five book discussions in June. The groups are open to the public, and newcomers are encouraged to attend. Anyone interested in participating may call the library at 382-3717 to learn more or to reserve a book. Email ktorresdal@decorahlibrary.org to be added to any of the groups’ email distribution lists. Funds for multiple copy sets are provided by Friends of Decorah Public Library.

The Happy Hour Book Group met Wednesday, June 11 at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company to discuss “The God of the Woods” by Liz Moore.

The History Book Group will meet at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 19 on the second floor of the library to discuss the first half of “John Lewis: A Life” by David Greenberg. Born into poverty in rural Alabama, John Lewis rose to prominence during the civil rights movement, becoming second only to Martin Luther King, Jr. in his contributions.

As a Freedom Rider, he played a crucial role in integrating bus stations across the South. Lewis was a prominent leader in the Nashville sit-in movement and delivered a historic speech at the 1963 March on Washington. As the youngest speaker and chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, he transformed it into a major civil rights organization.

His legacy endures through the harrowing events at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, where he survived a brutal beating on what became known as “Bloody Sunday.”

The Friday Book Group will meet at 2 p.m. Friday, June 20

on the second floor of the library to discuss “Soldiers and Kings: Survival and Hope in the World of Human Smuggling” by anthropologist Jason de Leon. De León embedded with a group of smugglers moving migrants across Mexico over the course of seven years. His book is the result of this unique and extraordinary access. Political instability, poverty, climate change and the insatiable appetite for cheap labor all fuel clandestine movement across borders. As borders harden, the demand for smugglers increases every year. Yet the lives and work of smugglers — or coyotes as they are often known — are often reported from a distance, depicting them as boogie men and violent warlords. In an effort to better understand this essential yet extralegal billion dollar global industry, internationally recognized anthropologist and expert Jason the first ever in-depth, character-driven look at human smuggling.

The Speculative Fiction Book Group will meet at 6 p.m.

Wednesday, June 23 via Zoom Wed. to discuss Haven Spec, a short story magazine — issue 19, March 2025. A Zoom link for discussion is available on the library’s website. Haven Spec is a speculative fiction magazine, featuring stories and poems for a 21st century audience. The

Winneshiek County Veterans Affairs Winneshiek County Veterans and their family are invited to...

VETERAN APPRECIATION DAY & OPEN HOUSE A COME-AND-GO EVENT

THURSDAY, JUNE 12 • 4:30-6:30PM

Courthouse Annex Building, 201 W. Main, Decorah, IA Presentations begin at 5:30PM

VA Decorah Clinic, Winneshiek County Contracted Counselor, ICVA Suicide Prevention and a briefing on VA Federal, State, County Benefits

REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED • MATERIALS WILL BE AVAILABLE

revitalization program nearly funded

Organizers said changes are underway at Fort Atkinson City Park as the community-driven park revitalization program gains momentum. Phase one of the project is nearly funded, thanks to support from local organizations and private donors, but organizers said the effort still needs a final push to close a $6,000 gap.

The project’s first phase will focus on resurfacing the city’s basketball and tennis court to transform it into a multi-use space which will include two new pickleball courts and two updated basketball courts.

To date, the project has raised $32,000 of the $38,000 needed for the project’s first phase. The project has received $12,000 from the Winneshiek County Community Foundation, $1,200 from AcenTek and $5,000 from The Depot Outlet. Pending contributions are expected from Al-

UIU launches five new degree programs

group will then discuss L.M. Sagas’ “Cascade Failure” beginning at approximately 6:30 p.m. the same day. The same Zoom link will be used for both meetings. Branded a Guild deserter, Jal accidentally lands a ride on a ship helmed by an AI, with a ship’s engineer/medic who doesn’t see much of a difference between the two jobs.

Responding to a distress call from an abandoned planet, the crew finds a mass grave, and a live programmer who knows how it happened. This isn’t the first dead planet, and it’s not going to be the last. Unless the crew of the Ambit can stop it.

For more information, contact Tricia Crary about the Friday Book Group or Kristin Torresdal about the Happy Hour, History, and Speculative Fiction Book Groups by calling 563-382-3717.

Upper Iowa University recently announced the addition of two new undergraduate degrees and three new master’s degree programs to provide students with expertise in highgrowth areas in which employers are searching for talent. New undergraduate offerings include Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity, Bachelor of Science in business analytics. In addition to the new undergraduate programs, UIU is also launching three new master’s degree programs which include Master of Business Administration - cybersecurity, Master of Business Administration - artificial intelligence, and Master of Public Administration - cybersecurity.

Enrollment in any of these new offerings has begun, with classes beginning in the fall of 2025.

“We’re thrilled to launch five new academic programs designed to prepare UIU students for today’s evolving workforce,” said Billie Cowley, vice president for academic affairs.

“Programs in business analytics, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence reflect the growing demand for expertise in these critical areas. Taught by experienced faculty and industry experts, these offerings represent an exciting opportunity for our students to gain relevant, career-ready skills.”

Free admission at Vesterheim the second Saturday of every month!

Free Second Saturday June 14, 11 AM The Norwegian “Mayflower” presented by Dale Goodman The adventures of the Sloopers, the first organized group of Norwegian immigrants.

vesterheim.org

Free Second Saturday is supported by Bill and Kathi Wild and The Depot Outlet.

Photo submitted liant Energy and private donors.

“This revitalization is about more than just new courts — it’s about building a stronger, healthier, and more connected community,” said project leader Kay Schmitt. “We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received so far and hopeful that the remaining funds can be raised soon.”

Phase One is scheduled to begin in June and, when additional funding is secured, fundraising will begin for the second phase of the project, which will include a zipline and interactive panels for toddlers.

To donate or learn more, contact Schmitt at gkschmt@acegroup.cc.

Milestone

70th wedding anniversary

Fritz and Jo Ann (Junk) Massman will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary with a card shower. They were married June 14, 1955 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in St. Lucas.

The Massmans have seven children: Cheryl (Stan), Darrel (Kristi), Tom, Mary (Peter), Jesse (Val), Pam (John) and Brenda (Ted); 21 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Cards and well wishes can be sent to 2475 River Road, Apt. 110, Decorah, IA 52101.

WinnMed Farmers Market Senior Nutrition Program summer distribution dates WinnMed will be offering Winneshiek County senior citizens free coupons to be used at the Decorah Area Farmers Market this season. Participants will receive $10 in coupons for locally grown fruits and vegetables — coupons may not be exchanged for money. Recipients of these coupons must be Winneshiek County residents, age 65 and older, and bring proof of their residency and age to the distribution site. A driver’s license or any previous year’s WinnMed farmers market ID are both acceptable. There are no income guidelines to participate in this program.

The coupons will be distributed from 10-11:30 a.m. Thurs-

day, June 12 at the Decorah Senior Center - 806 River St., 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 21 at the Decorah Farmers Market.

Coupons will only be distributed on the scheduled dates at the indicated locations. If there are extra coupons remaining, another distribution date may be scheduled later during the summer. Coupons will not be mailed.

This program is funded by The United Way of Winneshiek County, with participating vendors from the Decorah Area Farmers Market. For more information, call 563-382-2911 and ask to speak to a WinnMed dietitian.

RECYCLE FOR ALL IT’S WORTH

PUBLIC NOTICES

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

2025 WATER QUALITY REPORT FOR DECORAH WATER DEPARTMENT This report contains important information regarding the water quality in our water system. The source of our water is groundwater.

Our water quality testing shows the following results: CONTAMINANT Total Trihalomethanes (ppb) [TTHM] Total Haloacetic Acids (ppb) [HAA5]

MCL - (MCLG) Type

Compliance Value & (Range)

Date

Violation Yes/No

80 (N/A)

LRAA

13.00 (13 - 13)

09/30/2024

No

60 (N/A)

LRAA

17.00 (17 - 17)

09/30/2024

No

Lead (ppb)

AL=15 (0)

90th

5.50 (ND - 12)

2022

No

Copper (ppm)

AL=1.3 (1.3)

90th

0.444 (0.0432 0.706)

2022

No

RAA

0.6 (0.38 - 0.73)

12/31/2024

No

RAA

0.64 (0.400 0.900)

03/31/2024

No

SGL

1.5

02/03/2021

No

950 - DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM MRDL=4.0 Chlorine (ppm) (MRDLG=4.0) Fluoride (ppm)

4 (4)

01 - WATER STREET PUMP HOUSE, #1 Combined Radium 5 (0) (pCi/L) Fluoride (ppm)

4 (4)

SGL

0.6

03/22/2021

No

Barium (ppm)

2 (2)

SGL

0.0826

03/22/2021

No

Sodium (ppm)

N/A (N/A)

SGL

11

01/31/2024

No

10 (10)

SGL

3.100

2024

No

Nitrate [as N] (ppm)

02 - WATER STREET PUMP HOUSE, #2 Fluoride (ppm)

4 (4)

SGL

0.6

03/22/2021

No

Barium (ppm)

2 (2)

SGL

0.0708

03/22/2021

No

Sodium (ppm)

N/A (N/A)

SGL

9.87

01/31/2024

No

10 (10)

SGL

2.500 (1.600 2.500)

2024

No

Nitrate [as N] (ppm)

Source By-products of drinking water chlorination By-products of drinking water disinfection Corrosion of household plumbing systems; erosion of natural deposits Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits; Leaching from wood preservatives Water additive used to control microbes Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Erosion of natural deposits; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories Erosion of natural deposits Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Erosion of natural deposits; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories Discharge of drilling wastes; Discharge from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits Erosion of natural deposits; Added to water during treatment process Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, sewage; Erosion of natural deposits Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Erosion of natural deposits; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories Discharge of drilling wastes; Discharge from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits Erosion of natural deposits; Added to water during treatment process Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, sewage; Erosion of natural deposits

03 - WATER STREET PUMP HOUSE, #3 Combined Radium 5 (0) SGL 1 02/03/2021 No Erosion of natural deposits (pCi/L)06, 2025 March CCR 2025 DECORAH WATER DEPARTMENT PWSID: 9630012 Page 1 Discharge of drilling wastes; Barium (ppm) 2 (2) SGL 0.0671 03/22/2021 No Discharge from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits Erosion of natural deposits; Added Sodium (ppm) N/A (N/A) SGL 6.71 01/31/2024 No to water during treatment process Runoff from fertilizer use; 4.100 (2.800 Leaching from septic tanks, Nitrate [as N] (ppm) 10 (10) SGL 2024 No 4.100) sewage; Erosion of natural deposits 05 - GOOSE ISLAND DRIVE PUMP HOUSE, #6 Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Erosion of natural Fluoride (ppm) 4 (4) SGL 0.6 03/22/2021 No deposits; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories Discharge of drilling wastes; Barium (ppm) 2 (2) SGL 0.086 03/22/2021 No Discharge from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits Erosion of natural deposits; Added Sodium (ppm) N/A (N/A) SGL 12.3 01/31/2024 No to water during treatment process Runoff from fertilizer use; 4.500 (3.800 Leaching from septic tanks, Nitrate [as N] (ppm) 10 (10) SGL 2024 No 4.500) sewage; Erosion of natural deposits 06 - BALL PARK, #7 Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Erosion of natural Fluoride (ppm) 4 (4) SGL 0.6 03/22/2021 No deposits; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories Discharge from petroleum and Selenium (ppb) 50 (50) SGL 1.20 03/22/2021 No metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits; Discharge from mines PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in a wide range of consumer products and industrial applications including: non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, cosmetics, firefighting 0.007(0.006PFBS(ug/L) N/A (N/A) SGL 2024 No foams, electroplating, and products 0.008) that resist grease, water, and oil.

PFAS are found in the blood of people and animals and in water, air, fish, and soil at locations across the United States and the World.

Sodium (ppm) Nitrate [as N] (ppm) 07 - MILL STREET, #5 Combined Radium (pCi/L)

N/A (N/A)

SGL

24.5

01/31/2024

No

10 (10)

SGL

3.900

2024

No

5 (0)

SGL

1

02/03/2021

No

2 (2)

Selenium (ppb)

50

Fluoride (ppm)

4

Sodium (ppm)

N/A

Nitrate [as N] (ppm)

10

Erosion of natural deposits

Discharge of drilling wastes; Discharge from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits Discharge from petroleum and (50) SGL 1.20 03/22/2021 No metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits; Discharge from mines Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Erosion of natural (4) SGL 0.7 03/22/2021 No deposits; Discharge fromPage fertilizer CCR 2025 DECORAH WATER DEPARTMENT PWSID: 9630012 2 and aluminum factories Erosion of natural deposits; Added (N/A) SGL 11.7 01/31/2024 No to water during treatment process Runoff from fertilizer use; 6.600 (3.800 Leaching from septic tanks, (10) SGL 2024 No 6.600) sewage; Erosion of natural deposits

Barium (ppm)

March 06, 2025

Erosion of natural deposits; Added to water during treatment process Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, sewage; Erosion of natural deposits

SGL

0.0786

03/22/2021

No

Note: indicate resultscontaminants from the most recent testing donetheingenaccordance with regulations.

Note:Contaminants Contaminantswith withdates dates indicate in drinking water than highly susceptible to contamination because results from the most recent testing done in

eral population. Immuno-compromised perthe characteristics of the aquifer and overlysons such as persons with cancer undergoing ing materials provide little protection from DEFINITIONS chemotherapy, persons who have undergone contamination at the land surface. The Allu• Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or vial-Ordovician wells will be highly suscep•– TheMaximum Contaminant Level (MCL) level of adisorders, contaminant is allowed water. MCLs areasset as highest level of a contaminant that is – The otherhighest immune system somethat eldertible in to drinking surface contaminants such leaking allowed in to drinking water. asMCLs are using set as the ly, andavailable infants can be particularly at risk from underground storage tanks, contaminant close the MCLGs feasible best treatment technology. to the MCLGs as feasible using the best infections. These people should seek advice spills, and excess fertilizer application. A •close Maximum Contaminant The level of afrom contaminant in drinking water below which is no known or available treatment technology. Level Goal (MCLG) about--drinking water their health care detailed evaluation of there your source water was expected risk to health. MCLGs allow forproviders. a marginEPA/CDC of safety.guidelines on appropri• Maximum Contaminant Level Goal completed by the Iowa Department of NatuThe per levelbillion. of a contaminant in ate means to lessen the risk of infection by ral Resources, and is available from the Water •(MCLG) ppb ---- parts which there is no Cryptosporidium and other microbial conOperator at 563-382-5171 .

•drinking ppm water -- partsbelow per million. known or expected risk to health. MCLGs taminants are available from the Safe DrinkCONTACT INFORMATION •allowpCi/L – picocuries per liter for a margin of safety. ing Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

For questions regarding this information, -- parts billion.

If present, elevated levels of lead can cause please contact Todd Ihde, Decorah Water • • ppb N/A – Notper applicable million. serious health problems, especially for pregSuperintendent at 563-382-5171 during the • • ppm ND----parts Notper detected • pCi/L – picocuries per liter nant women and young children. Lead in following hours: 7-4 Monday – Friday.

• • N/A RAA – Running – Not applicableAnnual Average drinking water is primarily from materials Decisions regarding the water system are -- Not detected and components made atinthe Utilitywater.

Comm meetings and • • ND Treatment Technique (TT) – A required process intendedassociated to reducewith the service level oflines a contaminant drinking – Running Annual home plumbing.

WATER then approved at the City Councilwhich meetings.

• • RAA Action Level (AL) – Average The concentration ofand a contaminant which,DECORAH if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements a • Treatment Technique (TT) – A required DEPARTMENT is responsible for providing These meetings are posted 24 hours in adwater system process intended to must reducefollow. the level of a conhigh quality drinking water, but cannot convance and are held on the 1st and 3rd Mon•taminant Maximum Residual (MRDLG) The levelused of aindrinking waterdays disinfectant below which is no in drinking water.Disinfectant Level Goal trol the variety of- materials plumbing at 5:45 pm at City Hallthere and are open to • Action Level (AL) – The of components.

Whenthe your water has been the public These meetings are also submitted known or expected riskconcentration to health. MRDLGs do not reflect benefits of the usesit-of disinfectants to control microbial a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers ting for several hours, you can minimize the to media. Citizens may also contact City Hall contaminants. treatment or other requirements which a wapotential for lead exposure by flushing your or the Decorah Water Dept. for more informa•ter system Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL) - The highest of abefore disinfectant in drinking water. There is must follow. tap for 30 seconds to 2 level minutes using allowed tion regarding such meetings.

• Maximum Level water for drinking or cooking.

If of you are YOU MAY PICK UP COPIES OF THIS convincingResidual evidenceDisinfectant that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control microbial contaminants.

(MRDLG) - The levelResult of a drinking concerned about lead in your water, you may CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT AT •GoalSGL – Single Sample water disinfectant below which there is no wish to have your water tested. Information THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS: •known RTCR – Revised Coliform Rule on lead in drinking water, testing methods or expected risk Total to health.

MRDLGs DECORAH CITY HALL, reflect the benefits of Turbidity the use of Units disand steps you can take to minimize exposure 400 CLAIRBORNE DR 563-382-3651 •do not NTU – Nephelometric infectants to control microbial contaminants. is available from the Safe Drinking Water HoDECORAH PUBLIC LIBRARY, • Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level tline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

202 WINNEBAGO ST. 563-382-3717 GENERAL (MRDL) - TheINFORMATION highest level of a disinfectant Our water supply has completed a service DECORAH WATER DEPT., allowed in drinking water. There is convincline inventory. Please contact us for informa800 WATER ST. 563-382-5171 ing evidence that including addition ofbottled a disinfectant regarding inventory how you can smallPlease Note: report will not be mailed Drinking water, water,ismay tion reasonably bethe expected toand contain at least amounts ofThis some contaminants.

The necessary for control of microbial contamiaccess the results. to individual presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water posed a health risk. More informationcustomers. about contaminants or nants.

ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION Decorah (Iowa) Leader potential effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Agency’s • SGL – health Single Sample Result Nitrate in drinking waterProtection at levels above 10 Safe Drinking Water June Hotline 12, 2025(800-4264791).

• RTCR – Revised Total Coliform Rule ppm is a health risk for infants of less than six • NTU – Nephelometric Turbidity Units months of age. High nitrate levels in drinking GENERAL water can in cause blue baby syndrome.

Some peopleINFORMATION may be more vulnerable to contaminants drinking water than the Nitrate general population. Immuno-compromised persons Drinking water, including bottled water, levels may rise quickly for short periods of such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or may reasonably be expected to contain at time because of rainfall or agricultural activiother immune system some elderly,ty.and befor particularly at risk from infections. people should seekbe advice least small amounts of disorders, some contaminants.

If infants you are can caring an infant, you should LegalThese publications must The presence of contaminants does health not necesask adviceEPA/CDC from your health care provider. about drinking water from their care providers. guidelines on appropriate means to lessen risk of infection received bythe Monday at 4:00by sarily indicate that and waterother posed a health risk.

SOURCE WATERfrom ASSESSMENT IN- Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Cryptosporidium microbial contaminants are available the Safe Drinking p.m. to be published in that More information about contaminants or poFORMATION tential health effects can be obtained by callThis water supply obtains its water from week’s newspaper.

If elevated levels of leadAgency’s can cause serious health women and young children. Lead in ingpresent, the Environmental Protection the sand andproblems, gravel andespecially sandstoneforofpregnant the Safe Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791). aquifer.

The Alluvidrinking waterWater is primarily from materials andAlluvial-Ordovician components associated with service lines and home plumbing. DECORAH WATER Some people may be more vulnerable to al-Ordovician aquifer was determined to be DEPARTMENT is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing accordance with regulations.

DEFINITIONS

563-382-4221

June 2, 2025 The regular meeting was called to order by Mayor Borowski at 5:45 PM. The meeting was held at the Decorah Council Chambers and electronically.

The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Members present: Mayor Borowski, Randy Schissel, Kirsten Olson, Cody Whittle, Brent Parker, Steve Zittergruen, Christopher Miculinich, City Manager Travis Goedken, and City Clerk Keri Sand Absent: Emily Neal Danielle Dotzenrod at 2136 Horn Hollow Road, Decorah, spoke regarding the rules that the Decorah Park Board passed regarding equine in the Decorah Park System. Dotzenrod voiced her concerns about some of the rules, including the need for speed limits on the trails for everyone’s safety.

Jim Dotzenrod at 1583 Canoe Ridge Road, Decorah, spoke regarding equine rules in the Decorah Park System. Dotzenrod believes that the City should honor the land donor’s wishes when accepting the deed. He feels that the limit of 4 horses without a special event permit is unfair.

Aimee Hilgerson at 222 Pleasant Street, Elgin, IA spoke regarding the leadership of elected officials and that citizens need to be able to rely and trust what their elected officials say is the truth and factual. Hilgerson expressed how specific members of the Decorah Park Board have treated other members of the Decorah Park Board unprofessionally and inappropriately. Hilgerson asked for an update of the Decorah City Council on considering reconstructing of the Decorah Park Board.

Marilyn Beard of 1610 Salem Lane Road, Decorah, spoke regarding the equine rules in the Decorah Park System. Beard explained to the council that they ride with four generations and it is not realistic to have a limit of 4 horses per group. Beard requested that they have horseback riders included in the rule making; there needs to be communication from both sides.

Benji Nichols gave the latest update on behalf of DHPT. Judith Joyce with Eocene presented an update on the Upper Iowa Mitigation Banking Program.

The consent agenda was presented. a. Minutes of May 19, 2025, Council Meeting b. Claims c. Retail Tobacco Permit 905 Short StreetKwik Star#629 d. Retail Tobacco Permit 1101 Montgomery Street-Kwik Star #1081 e. Retail Tobacco Permit 306 College Drive-Kwik Star #1190 f....... Tax Abatement-709 Washington Street #1-Dexter Quandahl-New Construction g. Tax Abatement-709 Washington Street #2-Dexter Quandahl-New Construction h. Tax Abatement-709 Washington Street #3-Dexter Quandahl-New Construction i. Tax Abatement-709 Washington Street #4-Dexter Quandahl-New Construction j. Resolution 2569 Approving Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract, and Engineer’s Estimate for Decorah 2025 Gateway Trail Project k. Resolution 3570 Awarding Contract to Pine Creek Trail Builder’s LLC for the Decorah 2025 Carlson Park Gateway Trail Project Miculinich made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented, Whittle seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Miculinich, Whittle, Parker, Olson, Schissel, Zittergruen. Nays: None. Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve a resolution to approve the plans, specifications, form of contract, engineer’s estimate, and award for the Decorah Athletic Complex.

Schissel seconded the motion. Roll call vote.

Ayes: None. Nays: Zittergruen, Schissel, Miculinich, Whittle, Olson, Parker. Motion failed.

City Manager, Travis Goedken, led discussion on the RFQ scoring committee for the Decorah Municipal Building. The general consensus of the council is to discuss the scoring for the Decorah Municipal Building at the June 23, 2025, work session.

Olson made a motion to approve numbers 1 through 5 and 7, 8, and 10 of the equestrian rules in the Decorah Park System and send the remaining rules back to the Decorah Park Board to work through. Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Olson, Miculinich. Nays: Zittergruen, Schissel, Whittle, Parker. Motion failed. Zittergruen made a motion to return the entire list of equine rules to the Decorah Park Board for reconsideration. Parker seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Zittergruen, Parker, Schissel, Whittle, Miculinich, Olson. Nays: None. Motion carried.

Mayor Borowski announced that there are two vacancies on the Decorah Human Rights Commission.

Schissel made a motion to go into closed session for the city manager review. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. The council came out of closed session at 8:06 PM to complete the city manager review. Council members expressed their thoughts and opinions on the city managers’ performance. City Manager Goedken asked the Council to consider forgoing raises and consider an empty lot in Decorah that the City of Decorah currently owns as compensation. The City Manager asked the Council to think about that proposal and to reach out to him with their thoughts.

Meeting adjourned at 8:35 PM Keri Sand City Clerk Finance Officer Monday, June 2, 2025 Payroll For 5/23/25..................... 191,191.72 Card Service Center, Supplies........6,356.05 Ups, Postage........................................29.95 Laura Gillespie, April 2025 Cleaning Services .....2,257.50 Ricoh Usa, Copies.............................220.14 Skyline Const, Pay App 2 Final 2024 Quarry Street Improvements..... 73,131.58 4Imprint, Supplies.............................388.25 Ace Hardware, Supplies....................403.14 Aia Services, Parks Shirts.................190.60 Alliant Energy, Electric Bills........ 10,380.91 Al’S Counrty Meat Locker, Resale Products..............................163.53 Anderson Wilmarth Van Der Maatten Legal Services............................. 3,528.00 At&T Mobility, Services...................173.32 Bodensteiner Implement, Parts/Repair.................................2,208.19 Bruening Rock Products, Services....138.92 Carrico Aquatic Resources, Supplies/Agreement.................... 7,311.61 Central Square Technologies Prosuite Subscription.................12,474.65 Civic Plus, Municode Admin Fees.1,992.33 Copyland, Archery Signs................... 153.00 Cs Solar, Solar................................2,927.40 Cummins Central Power, Generator Service........................ 3,098.72 Custom Alarm, Fire Alarm Inspection..................... 932.40 Dalco, Supplies..................................732.97 Decorah Covenant Church, Vault Rental December 24-May 25.....................870.00 Decorah Leader, Advertisement .... 1,087.43 Decorah Mobile Glass, Windshield...280.00 Elite Clean Power Washing, Wash College Drive Bridge For Mural Preparation ....................................350.00 Fareway Stores, Archery-Grand Opening.................173.79 Feld Fire, Unit 8 Hose Reel............1,536.00 Fisk Farm And Home. Supplies.....1,157.67 Graybar Electric. Commscope Tech....60.59 Hawkins, Fluoride/Chlorine/Tank Rental....2,787.21 Hesse, Jill, Refund For Double Water Payment............................................ 76.86 Hovden Oil, Generator Fuel/Oil........ 749.36 Ihde, Todd, Renewal Fees For Wa/Ww Licenses ......................................... 124.54 Iowa Prison Industries, Ilea Uniform Pkg............................ 230.00 Iroc Web Design, 1 Yr Renewal..........16.00 Isg, Dahlen Property.......................6,742.50 Keystone Laboratories, Drinking Water Analysis-Big Springs Well...............35.00 Klosterboer, John, Eagle Rock Statue ...................... 4,879.55 Koepp, Randall, Water Refund............ 80.73 Kwik Trip, Campground Fuel........... 739.93 Lti Water Conditioning, Lti Water Conditioning-Softener......96.50 Mabes Pizza, Fundraising Meeting... 121.78 Mcclure Engineering, Airport Corporate Hangar And Attached Terminal...4,697.43 Metering And Technology Solutions Metering/Tech-Meters................. 1,518.29 Meyer, Evan, Renewal Fees For Wa/Ww Licenses.......................................... 124.54 Midwest Patch/Hi-Viz Safety, Signs.300.00 Mower Power, Services..................4,018.65 Napa Auto Parts Inc, Parts...................16.07 Ness Pumping, Septic Pumping........595.00 Northeast Iowa Task Force March 2025 Jag...........................1,296.17 Perry Novak Electric, Generator Project......................... 1,000.00 Psychology Associates, Psychology Associates, Pllc........... 300.00

Randy’s Auto Parts, Parts.................. 298.90 Riley’s, Register Service................... 174.50 River City Paving, Hma ................... 680.21 Secretary Of State, Notary-White....... 30.00 Spahn & Rose Lumber, Parks Supplies.................................. 25.99 Steven T Pedretti, Program Treats....... 37.50 Stevenson Tree Care, Tree Removal ............................. 8,895.00 Storey Kenworthy, Supplies.............. 312.59 Strand Associates, Wwtp Upgrade/Water Meter Replacement Project....... 28,880.55 T & W Grinding, Grind Brush..... 13,325.00 Truck Country Of Iowa, Nurse Truck.................................... 167.69 Upper Explorerland Rpc, EcbgApril2025 Administration Services .................. 74.49 Van De Braun, Fy 25 Downtown Economic Grant.......................................... 10,000.00 Voltmer, Traffic Signal Hwy 9 .......4,150.00 Windstream, Airport ........................... 38.37 Winn Co. San. Landfill, Deer................ 6.00 Young, Jon, Renewal Fees For Wa/Ww Licenses.......................................... 124.54 Petty Cash, Pool Start Up Cash ........ 970.00 Revenue To Date - May 30, 2025 General Fund........................... 5,831,097.41 Street Electric Franchise Fee...... 198,751.86 Road Use Fund........................... 785,117.65 Employee Benefits................... 1,653,311.60 Hotel/Motel................................ 286,029.81 Emergency Fund......................... 117,258.47 Local Option Sales Tax...........1,043,285.74 Tiff.............................................. 213,941.01 Ssmid............................................21,134.83 Park Special Gifts......................... 24,404.61 Library Special Gifts.................... 45,644.12 Street Equip Fund........................... 6,973.18 Debt Service Fund...................1,294,385.42 Special Projects Water Utility Fund......................967,075.54 Sewer Utility Fund..................1,024,921.39 Enterprise Project Interest............13,312.29 Metronet.......................................70,666.50 Forest Utility.............................. 128,507.80 Storm Sewer Utility.................... 454,561.60 Decorah (Iowa) Leader June 12, 2025

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT IN AND FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY DANIEL HOVDEN and DEAN HOVDEN, Plaintiff(s) – Contestant(s), Vs. DALE HOVDEN, DAVID HOVDEN, and DENISE HOVDEN-BAUMLER, as Executor(s) of the Marvin K. Hovden Estate; DALE HOVDEN, individually; DAVID HOVDEN, individually; and DENISE HOVDEN-BAUMLER, individually, Defendant(s).

And SHAUNA HOVDEN, HANNAH HOVDEN, HEATH HOVDEN and RUSSELL CEMETERY FUND as interested parties/ beneficiaries per the will.

Case No. ESPR016306 ORIGINAL NOTICE TO THE ABOVE-NAMED INTERESTED PARTY, SHAUNA HOVDEN: You are notified that a petition has been filed in the office of the clerk of this court naming you as an interested party in this action, which petition prays(1) that the Last Will and Testament of Marvin K. Hovden, admitted into probate on July 2, 2024, be set aside. The name and address of the attorney for the plaintiff(s) – contestant(s) is Kevin E. Schoeberl, 126 N. Elm St., PO Box 89, Cresco, Iowa 52136. The attorney’s phone number is 563-547-3329; facsimile number is 563-547-2578.

You must serve a motion or answer on or before (2) July 3, 2025, and within a reasonable time, thereafter, file your motion or answer with the Clerk of Court for Winneshiek County, at the courthouse in Decorah, Iowa.

If you do not, judgment by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

You are further notified that the above case has been filed in a county that utilizes electronic filing. Please see Iowa Court Rules Chapter 16 for information on electronic filing and Iowa Court Rules Chapter 16, division VI regarding the protection of personal information in court filings.

If you require the assistance of auxiliary aids or services to participate in court because of a disability, immediately call your district ADA coordinator at 319-833-3282. (If you are hearing impaired, call Relay Iowa TTY at 1-800-735-2942) IMPORTANT: YOU ARE ADVISED TO SEEK LEGAL ADVICE AT ONCE TO PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS Decorah (Iowa) Leader June 12, 19 & 26, 2025 Spillville City Council Meeting Minutes Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM Location: Spillville City Hall Call to Order • Time: 6:00 PM • Mayor: Wermers • Council Members Present: Kelsay, Taylor, Schmitt, and Backes • Council Members Absent: Straube Approval of the Consent Agenda • Motion by Backes, second by Taylor, to approve the Consent agenda.

• Vote: Ayes – Unanimous, Nayes – None.

• Motion carried.

Licenses/ Permits/ Applications • Received a building permit application for DJ Oblander.

• Motion by Kelsay, second by Taylor to approve the building permit application for DJ Oblander.

• Voice vote: Ayes – Unanimous, Nayes – None.

• Motion carried.

Discussion • Water Project.

• Spillville water Tower Demolition Project is Eligible for Categorical Exclusion.

This will be discussed again at the July meeting.

Motions and Resolutions 1. Approval of the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) Additional Subsidy (Principal Forgiveness) Award Terms and Conditions.

• Motion. Motion by Taylor, second by Kelsay • Voice Vote. Ayes – Unanimous, Nayes – None.

• Motion Carried.

2.. Authorize the Clerk to Post the Proposed Sewer Rate Ordinance Amendment • Motion. Motion by Schmitt, second by Taylor • Voice Vote. Ayes – Unanimous, Nayes – None.

• Motion Carried.

Adjournment • Motion by Taylor, second by Kelsay to adjourn the meeting.

• Voice vote: Ayes – Unanimous, Nayes – None.

• Motion carried.

• Time of Adjournment: 6:50 PM Attest: Reed Backes, Council Fund, Income...............................Distribution General, $13152.37....................... $20,375.46 Clocks, $10821.58........................... $6270.95 Library Trust, $152.81.....................$2473.10 Campground, $2962.60......................$367.93 Road Use, $3278.16......................... $4564.93 LOST, $6300.81..........................................$0 Debt Service, $1051.21.................. $10525.53 Capitol, $0...................................................$0 Water, $385,094.23.....................$430,321.37 Sewer, $4092.28............................... $1968.54 Claims for June 2025 Meeting Type, Date, , Name, Memo................Amount Check, 05/31/2025, Andera, Lynette C, Payroll...........................................-2,240.47 Check, 05/31/2025, Bodender, Lalanya S, Payroll..............................................-526.40 Check, 05/31/2025, Craft, Susanna-Virginia, Payroll...........................................-1,219.97 Check, 05/31/2025, Elsbernd, Sandra A, Payroll..............................................-469.57 Check, 05/31/2025, Kruckman, Luke E, Payroll................................................-32.32 Check, 05/31/2025, KUHN, RUTH, Payroll..............................................-757.27 Check, 05/31/2025, KULISH, JOANE, Payroll...........................................-1,895.88 Check, 05/31/2025, PHILLIPS, LARRY J, Payroll...........................................-4,421.71 Check, 05/31/2025, Shatek, Lori, Payroll..............................................-266.66 Check, 05/31/2025, Thompson, Linda M., Payroll..............................................-295.95 Check, 05/31/2025, Violet, Schmelzer G, Payroll..............................................-115.44 Check, 06/01/2025.. , Iowa Finance Authority 2025 Loan Payment On Water Project.........................................-40,376.58 Check, 06/01/2025, GESING, KATHY, Payroll..............................................-767.18 Check, 06/01/2025, Bodender, Lalanya S, Payroll................................................-41.56

11 Check, 06/03/2025, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones with Credit................-7.07 Check, 06/03/2025, ...STRAUBE, THOMAS Weed Control - Sewer Lagoon.........-150.00 Check, 06/03/2025, .DORSEY & WHITNEY LLP, Water Project legal service......-490.00 Check, 06/03/2025, GIGFIRE, Internet Service..................................-70.00 Check, 06/03/2025, D & K PRODUCTS, Flowers.............................................-184.00 Check, 06/03/2025, Decorah Leader, Publications......................................-224.11 Check, 06/03/2025, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones................................-149.29 Check, 06/03/2025, BADGER METER, Water Maintenance ...........................-63.00 Check, 06/03/2025, .QUANDAHL, TRACY, Lighting Bandstand..........................-100.00 Check, 06/03/2025, VISA, City Supplies....................................-368.94 Check, 06/03/2025, Amazon Marketplace, Clocks Supplies................................-128.03 Check, 06/03/2025, UPPER IOWA INSURANCE SERVICES CORP., City Insurance..................................-340.00 Check, 06/03/2025, Marv Smith Electric, Plbg & Htg, Park Maintenance........-239.25 Check, 06/03/2025, Shimek Sanitation, Shimek Sanitation Contract..........-3,082.95 Check, 06/03/2025, Jen Conger, Clocks Souvenirs...............................-25.00 Check, 06/03/2025, Beaver Creek Graphix, Souvenirs.........................................-577.80 Check, 06/03/2025, JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL, Shop Supplies...........-151.11 Check, 06/03/2025, Microbac Laboratories, Inc, Water& Sewer Testing..............-262.50 Check, 06/03/2025, MEDIACOM, Clocks Internet Access.....................-106.04 Check, 06/03/2025, MPLC, Video MPLC License.............................................-179.56 Check, 06/03/2025, KUHN, RUTH, Mileage..............................................-58.00 Check, 06/03/2025, IPERS, IPERS.-2,225.17 Check, 06/03/2025, United States Treasury Federal Payroll Taxes....................-2,917.22 Check, 06/03/2025, IOWA DEPT OF REV & FINANCE, Water Excise Tax......-664.06 Check, 06/03/2025, IOWA DEPT OF REV & FINANCE, General Sales Tax.....-353.86 Total...............................................-66,543.92 Decorah (Iowa) Leader June 12, 2025 Decorah Community School Board Work Session & Special School Board Meeting Minutes Central Administration Office Thursday, June 5, 2025 3:00 p.m.

Present: President Cindy Goodner, Directors: Brad Darling, Ron Fadness, Carole Sand, and Aaron Zander. Superintendent Dr. Tim Cronin, Board Secretary Darlene Woodhouse, Staff, News Media, and Guests.

Absent: Director of Business Services Cathy Dietzenbach.

President Goodner called to order the work session and special school board meeting at 3:00 p.m. Director Sand read the mission statement.

Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded

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

Work Session: Tom Zahalka, Commercial Construction Project Manager with Miron Construction, was present via Zoom and updated the board on the design and budget process of the elementary school project. Mr. Zahalka stated the project is moving from the schematic design phase to the design development phase.

The last phase will be the construction phase.

Mr. Zahalka and the board went through the value engineering (VE) log evaluating line items if each should be kept, rejected, or placed on hold. The board approved suggestions from Mr. Zahalka and team to eliminate the northeast corner of the second floor, remove outside design elements, and use utility brick and more. With these changes, the budget is closer to the targeted $38,000,000 budget. The board will bid separately for furniture, video surveillance, and possibly a generator for additional savings. The VE log log will continue to be evaluated as the design development phase is complete.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:48 p.m.

Cindy Goodner, Board President Darlene Woodhouse, Board Secretary Decorah (Iowa) Leader June 12, 2025

Board Minutes June 2, 2025 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am June 2, 2025 with Kelsay, Vick, Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order.

Tara Hoffert, Community Insurance of Iowa, met with the Board to review the FY26 Property, Liability, and Work Comp Insurance renewals.

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to review road projects. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to approve the plans for the B32 Otta Seal project. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to approve the hire of Carson Wenthold as Signman, after he passes pre-employment physicals. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to open the public hearing on the re-zoning requested by Adams. Motion carried unanimously. Tony Phillips, P&Z Administrator, reported the P&Z Commission held a public hearing and recommended approval of the rezoning on a five to one vote. Adams gave a review of the proposed project and agreed to the conditional request that external lighting should be directed downward. No additional written or verbal comments were received.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded

by Faldet to hold the first reading of the proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment. Motion carried unanimously and the reading was held. Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to waive the additional readings. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Vick to adopt Ordinance 25-254, approving the conditional rezoning as read.

Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Ordinance will be on file in the County Auditor’s and Recorder’s offices and be published as required.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to open the public hearing on the re-zoning requested by Hewitt and McCargar. Motion carried unanimously. Tony Phillips, P&Z Administrator, reported the P&Z Commission held a public hearing and recommended approval of the rezoning unanimously. McCargar gave a review of the proposed re-zoning. No additional written or verbal comments were received. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to close the public hearing.

Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to hold the first reading of the proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment. Motion carried unanimously and the reading was held. Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to waive the additional readings. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Vick to adopt Ordinance 25-255, approving the rezoning as read. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Ordinance will be on file in the County Auditor’s and Recorder’s offices and be published as required.

Barb Schroeder, County Conservation, met with the Board to provide further details of the Forest Resiliency Partnership Program with the DNR. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vermace for the County to enter a ten year management agreement with County Conservation for the wooded area around the Freeport Road Shop, to facilitate enrollment into the program. Motion carried unanimously. Schroeder will work with the County Attorney to draft an official management agreement.

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

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to renew the HIPAA Training agreement with ISAC. Motion carried unanimously.

The Board discussed possible adjustments to the salary matrix. Tony Phillips commented on the process. The Board asked Auditor Steines to work with Phillips to provide additional information for consideration at a future meeting.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, June 9, 2025.

Motion carried unanimously.

ATTEST Benjamin D. Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Decorah (Iowa) Leader June 12, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS

12 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@DECORAHNEWSPAPERS.COM | 563-382-4221

ORDINANCE NO. 25-254 ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COUNTY ZONING ORDINANCE TO CHANGE THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION FROM A-1 AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT TO A-2 AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT FOR THE HEREIN DESCRIBED PROPERTY. WHEREAS, a request for amendment to the zoning ordinance of Winneshiek County was submitted to the Planning and Zoning Commission, said request having been acted upon by the Planning and Zoning Commission following a public hearing; and, WHEREAS, the request for amendment of the zoning ordinance pertains to the following described real estate: The East 300 feet of the North 500 feet of lot 2 in the Northeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter, in Section 28, of Township 98 North, Range 9 West of the 5th P.M. Winneshiek County, Iowa.

WHEREAS, the said zoning request requested that the property be rezoned from A-1 Agricultural District to A-2, Agricultural District; and, WHEREAS, a notice of the time and place of a public hearing on said request was published pursuant to law; and, WHEREAS, a public hearing as required has been conducted by the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors.

WHEREAS, the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors has considered the Winneshiek County Comprehensive Plan in their review of the Applicant’s request and does find that the request is consistent with the policies and goals set out in the Winneshiek County Comprehensive Plan; and, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED

BY THE WINNESHIEK COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS 1. That the zoning classification as to the following described real estate: The East 300 feet of the North 500 feet of lot 2 in the Northeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter, in Section 28, of Township 98 North, Range 9 West of the 5th P.M. Winneshiek County, Iowa. is hereby changed from A-1 Agricultural District to A-2, Agricultural District.

2. That the zoning map of Winneshiek County, Iowa, be modified to reflect this change.

3. External lighting should be directed downward.

Repealer. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this zoning ordinance or inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, are hereby repealed to the extent necessary to give this Ordinance full force and effect.

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

Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect after its passage and publication as provided by law.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of June 2025.

WINNESHIEK COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Daniel Langreck Chairman Attest: Benjamin D. Steines Winneshiek County Auditor Decorah (Iowa) Leader June 12, 2025

FOR RENT iek County Comprehensive Plan in their review of the Applicant’s request and does find that the request is consistent with the policies and goals set out in the Winneshiek County Comprehensive Plan; and, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED

BY THE WINNESHIEK COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: 1. That the zoning classification as to the following described real estate: A Southerly portion of Lot 1-1 in the Northwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter, of Section 4, and a Southeasterly portion of lot 2 in the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter in Section 5, all in Township 98 North, Range 7 West of the 5th P.M. Winneshiek County, Iowa. is hereby changed from A-1 Agricultural District to A-R, Agricultural Residential District.

2. That the zoning map of Winneshiek County, Iowa, be modified to reflect this change.

Repealer. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this zoning ordinance or inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, are hereby repealed to the extent necessary to give this Ordinance full force and effect.

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

Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect after its passage and publication as provided by law. .PASSED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of June 2025.

WINNESHIEK COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Daniel Langreck Chairman Attest: Benjamin D. Steines Winneshiek County Auditor Decorah (Iowa) Leader June 12, 2025

COUNTY ORDINANCE NO. 25/256 AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE EXISTING COUNTY CODE, WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IOWA: Be it enacted by the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa: Section 1. Purpose. The purpose of this adopting ordinance is to enable Winneshiek County, Iowa, to comply with the provisions of Section 331.302(10) of the Iowa Code.

Section 2. Adoption. Winneshiek County, Iowa, hereby adopts the existing Code of Ordinances for Winneshiek County, Iowa, pursuant to the provisions of Section 331.302(10) of the Iowa Code.

Section 3. Content. The 2025 Code of Ordinances of Winneshiek County, Iowa, is composed of all ordinances presently in effect in Winneshiek County, Iowa.

The 2025 Code of Ordinances shall include this ordinance, readopting the existing County Code, and the Winneshiek County Auditor’s certification of its adoption and passage.

If the Code of Ordinances includes an ordinance which has adopted by reference the provisions of any statewide or nationally recognized standard code pursuant to the provisions of Iowa Code Section 331.302(5) (a), the county auditor shall also keep on file, with the official copy of the County Code, a copy of such state or nationally recognized standard code.

Section 4. Format. The 2025 Code of Ordinances of Winneshiek County, Iowa, shall be ORDINANCE NO. 25-255 compiled in loose leaf format.

ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COUNSection 5. Official Copy. The Winneshiek TY ZONING ORDINANCE TO CHANGE County Auditor shall be responsible for the THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION FROM compilation, organization and maintenance A-1 AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT TO A-R of the official 2025 Code of Ordinances of AGRICULTURAL RESIDENTIAL DISWinneshiek County, Iowa, and shall keep an TRICT FOR THE HEREIN DESCRIBED official copy on file in the office of the WinPROPERTY. neshiek County Auditor.

WHEREAS, a request for amendment to the Section 6. Additional Ordinances. All ordizoning ordinance of Winneshiek County was nances adopted after the effective date of the submitted to the Planning and Zoning Comordinance readopting the Code, shall be in the mission, said request having been acted upon form of an amendment to or in addition to the by the Planning and Zoning Commission fol2025 Code of Ordinances. lowing a public hearing; and, Section 7. Effective Date. This ordinance, WHEREAS, the request for amendment of after its passage and publication as required the zoning ordinance pertains to the following by law, shall be effective after its final pasdescribed real estate: sage, approval and publication as provided A Southerly portion of Lot 1-1 in the Northby law. west Quarter of the Southwest Quarter, of Passed this 9th day of June 2025.

Section 4, and a Southeasterly portion of lot Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors 2 in the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Daniel Langreck Quarter in Section 5, all in Township 98 Chairperson North, Range 7 West of the 5th P.M. WinneAttest: shiek County, Iowa.

Benjamin Steines WHEREAS, the said zoning request reWinneshiek County Auditor quested that the property be rezoned from I hereby certify that the above Ordinance A-1 Agricultural District to A-R, Agricultural No. 25/256 was published on the 12th day of Residential District; and, June 2025 in the Decorah Leader paper.

WHEREAS, a notice of the time and place Benjamin Steines of a public hearing on said request was pub$1,000 SIGNING BONUS Winneshiek County Auditor lished pursuant to law; and, Decorah (Iowa) Leader WHEREAS, a public hearing as required June 12, 2025 has been conducted by the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors.

WHEREAS, the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors has considered the Winnesh-

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

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Robotic surgery system magnification of up to 10 times, allowing surgeons to perform small-scales tasks — such as incisions, dissections or sutures — with precision. The system’s small robotic arms are able to articulate as a surgeon’s wrist would, and some models simulate resistance from a patient’s tissue for the surgeon as they work.

Slessor said the hospital aims to purchase a da Vinci 5 unit — the latest model available — for approximately $2.6 million. He said WinnMed officials had considered purchasing a da Vinci Xi, which would have saved the hospital approximately $500,000, but he said that model is close to 10 years old and service for the Xi may not necessarily be provided in the coming years.

WinnMed’s da Vinci 5 is expected to be leased over seven years, with an annual payment of about $385,000, and the hospital would have the option to buy the robot at the end of the lease period. Slessor indicated WinnMed won’t have trouble factoring the annual payments into its yearly budget, and he noted training for the hospital’s surgeons is included as part of the purchase. In addition, he reminded the hospital board WinnMed’s new surgical addition, which was part of the hospital’s ongoing Transforming Tomorrow improvement project, was designed to accommodate a da Vinci unit — the hospital’s surgical teams moved into the new operating rooms in mid-May, according to information from WinnMed. “We have built our ORs to accommodate this, so the construction is already done,” Slessor said last week. “There’s a space that already exists for the robot, and it’s been vetted and validated that we are ready to rock ‘n’ roll.”

Dr. Caroline Schwickerath, a general surgeon who works at WinnMed as part of the Mayo Clinic Health System, said she and many surgeons in various specialties are interested in using the da Vinci. She said having one at the local hospital will help establish what she called

a plan of succession within the surgery department as staff retire and new surgeons are hired.

The robot will be a particularly effective recruiting tool for OBGYN providers, according to Schwickerath.

“All the OBGYN residents who are coming out are looking for a robot,” she said, adding residents are typically trained on such systems. “I think it will be really difficult to get an OBGYN without a robot. Similarly, with urology, most urology residents are going to come out looking for a robot.”

Intuitive estimates there are currently 6,000 da Vinci robots in use at hospitals around the U.S. and more than 50 of them are in Iowa. However, Slessor said few facilities near WinnMed have a da Vinci on site — some of the closest locations to Decorah include Guttenberg, Waterloo, Mason City and La Crosse, Wisconsin.

“They’re pretty widespread across the states of Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin, but we still have that whole area up in the northeast part of the state that does not have a robot,” Slessor said, adding WinnMed officials aim to be the first in the region.

Dr. Chris Winters, a surgeon with the Gundersen Clinic in Decorah, indicated he was trained in robotic surgery last year and has completed approximately 100 cases using a robotic system.

“This is kind of the way of the future,” Winters said.

“There are advanced hernia cases I’m sending out that I would probably take on if I had a robot here.”

Winters went on to say the da Vinci allows surgeons to make smaller incisions, perform finer dissections and more easily complete a wide variety of small-scale techniques.

“The ability to sew proficiently inside the abdomen with a teeny-tiny incision is just really a huge benefit to the patient,” Winters said.

Dr. Erik Brink, a recently hired general surgeon at WinnMed, echoed Winters, saying the use of the robot often results

continued from front

in decreased pain for the patient. He said the ability to work in detail has allowed surgeons to avoid attaching bulky structures to muscle tissue as they might have during laparoscopic procedures — information from Intuitive said the da Vinci system surpassed laparoscopic surgery at some point between 2023 and 2024 to become the main method for providing soft tissue surgery in the U.S. “It’s become outpatient surgery,” Brink said. “It saves the hospital stay. It saves the pain levels. The other advantage is I can fix multiple hernias at one time through the same incisions.”

Slessor said about $3.4 million of WinnMed’s current annual net revenue is generated through procedures which could be completed using the robotic surgical system, and he said hospital officials project the surgery department will see between 15 and 20 additional cases on the calendar once the robot is installed — potentially generating between $150,000 and $200,000 in added annual revenue. Slessor cited information from the Iowa Hospital Association, saying an estimated 350 cases being treated at other Iowa hospitals in WinnMed’s broader market area could be treated using a da Vinci — Slessor noted the data did not include cases being treated at other facilities in neighboring Minnesota or Wisconsin.

He said WinnMed would need to gain a little less than 50 such cases in order to break even with the purchase of the robot, after factoring for reimbursement payments WinnMed receives as a critical access hospital. He went on to indicate gaining 60 new cases would not be an unreasonable expectation.

“Everybody wants the robot now,” Brink said. “It seems to be the popular thing people are looking for. If we can offer that to our community and the surrounding counties, I think this will be an advantage.”

Slessor told the board the hospital’s new asset may arrive later this fall.

Echoes continued from page 4 necessary provisions for a family of five’s one-week camping trip. Among the “essentials” were 5 cans of sardines, 4 cans of tongue, 5 cans of chicken, 4 cans of salmon, 5 cans of soup, 10 pounds of sugar, 1 bushel of potatoes, 2 pounds of lard, 2 pounds of canned cheese; 2 tins of crackers and 10 loaves of bread. A slab of bacon and a two-gallon pail of eggs also made the list. …The three Protestant Evangelical Churches here in town (Episcopal, M.E. and Congregational Churches) are arranging to have a joint Vacation Bible School in early June, continuing for two weeks. Miss Clara Rollins has been secured to oversee the program. The work will include Bible study, music, worship, recreation, sand handy work and more. A contribution of 25 cents from each family with any children enrolled is requested to oversee expenses. The teachers will contribute their services. …Sever Olson has invented new front bumpers and rear bumpers for Ford cars, which are proving very successful.

The bumpers are attached in such a manner as to prevent the continued rattling of the fenders, as well as to perform the usual functions of bumpers. …Two girl hikers passed through Decorah the other day.

The nice-looking young girls, from Red Wing, Minnesota, came by on their way home after a hike to Topeka, Kansas, to visit friends. Of course, they got a good many lifts along the way, admitting they didn’t walk the entire way. At nights they would put up at a hotel. …It’s nearly Father’s Day and what better way to remem-

ber dad than with kind, soothing words and a nice suit of clothes from Mott & Company department store. Suits start at $2.98 up to $10. …Heavy hail during a recent rainstorm played havoc with Symon’s Brothers greenhouse over on the West Side. The hail, which some said were as large as hen’s eggs, broke out many windows. …Julia Brickner, beloved wife of the late Henry Brickner, passed last month. She was in her 91st year.

90

YEARS AGO: 1935 - A temperature of 42 degrees on a recent morning was recorded by Weather Observer M.D. Whitney. Frost was also predicted. …Rev. O. Glesne confirmed a class of 35 at Decorah Lutheran Church last Sunday morning. …A dance hall is being constructed on the Charles Marlow farm about five miles northwest of Decorah on Highway 52.

Three acres have been leased.

Construction estimates are at about $4,000. …Two Decorah pupils won a spot in the “Every Pupil Contest” at Iowa City recently. They competed with about 1,000 other high school pupils in the state. The honorees were Arthur Youmans and Olga Strandvold. …About 1,500 pounds of carp from Clear Lake were brought to Decorah last week and distributed to folks on the relief rolls in the county. …The Silvercrest Golf Course is observing its 5th year with opening day approaching. …There were 297 eighth grade graduates in the county spring. Of that total, 214 were rural country-school students.

They received their diplomas recently in ceremonies at C.K. Preus Gymnasium on the Luther College campus. This year’s guest speaker encouraged the students to continue into high school. But for those ending their organized schooling, he urged them to form habits of good reading – because by reading good books they will educate themselves. …A big shipment of Crisco shortening has arrived in town – much to the delight of local housewives! …A new bridge on Highway 52 in the city, known locally as the West Decorah Bridge, will open to traffic this week. The oldest motorist in the area, Mr. C.W. Pilgrim, whose 89th birthday was a few months back, has the honor of being the first motorist to drive over the new bridge, thanks to kind permission from the highway officials from the state. …The annual season of the Winneshiek Cow pasture. Baseball League starts this Sunday and will continue through the end of August. Eight teams make the up the league -= Canoe, Decorah, Trout Run, Calmar, Decorah CC Camp, Ossian, Red Oak and Nordness. …An elephant seen here in Decorah when the Atterbury Brothers Circus came to town in early May, has killed a little girl in Minnesota. The elephant, named “Virginia” reportedly crashed through a row of seats in a capacity-filled tent in Crookston, Minn., killing a 9-year-old when the bleachers collapsed from the impact of the elephant’s charge. The elephant ran the entire length of the tent after being angered by an attack from a dog.

13

Luther College Concert Band travels to Japan for series of performances The Luther College Concert Band, under the direction of Cory Near, toured Japan from May 28 through June 9 — the ensemble’s first international tour since 2017.

The concert band last toured Japan in 2010 under the late Fred Nyline, its longtime director, and college officials said this year’s trip was expected to build on that history. The Luther College Concert Band traveled to Japan five times between 1993 and 2010. Nyline died on Nov. 16, 2022.

“It’s significant and special to have the band return to Japan on its first international tour since Mr. Nyline’s passing,” said Susan Potvin, director of programming and outreach at Luther College.

Potvin also noted Nyline served as guest conductor for the Musashino Academia Wind Ensemble in Tokyo for five semesters, and Near said the tour has likely benefited the student-musicians in multiple ways.

“When discussing locations, we decided returning to a country that the ensemble has traveled to in the past would be a great opportunity for our students and also pay tribute to the years of history and planning this ensemble has with Japan,” Near said. “I was fortunate to have many conversations with Prof. Nyline about those experiences. Prof. Nyline spoke highly of not only the musical opportunities our students can and will experience, but also the culture of Japan, which will undoubtedly shape our students for years to come.”

The band, which is made up of 60 Luther students, performed in Kyoto, Hakone, Nagoya and Tokyo. The ensemble performed in several exchange concerts with musicians from four high school bands and one university band. This tour

(Photo submitted) included many culturally significant stops, including Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi and the Fushimi Inari Shrine.

The tour’s performance program, titled “Friends: Old, New, and Remembered” will open with Nicole Piunno’s “Bright Shadow Fanfare,” a piece which the concert band performed in the fall and was selected by peer review to be included as part of a March showcase during the College Band Directors National Association’s National Conference in Fort Worth, Texas.

The band also performed “Furusato,” a well-known Japanese children’s song, and Catherine Likhuta’s “Bury and Rise,” which was the composer’s response to her mother’s passing in Ukraine during the Russian invasion. Switching gears, the concert band performed “In Living Color” by Katahj Copley, and Carter Pann’s “The Three Embraces.” The band will close with James Barnes’ “Finale” from Symphony No. 3.

“This piece was Prof. Fred Nyline’s favorite composition,

so it felt fitting to travel across the world and bring ‘Finale’ to life in his honor in a country that meant so much to him,” Near said.

A group of 17 Luther alumni, friends and concert band family members toured Japan along with the band, attending performances and taking in scenery and architecture of the country.

About the Luther College Concert Band The Luther College Concert Band was formed in 1878 and is now one of the oldest touring organizations in the nation. The concert band is Luther College’s principal band ensemble. From its beginnings as a student-directed brass and percussion ensemble using instruments from a discontinued community band, the concert band rose to its current position through the directorships of Carlo Sperati (1905–1943), Weston Noble (1948–1973), Nyline (1973– 2011) and Joan deAlbuquerque (2011–2020). The concert band has been under Near’s direction since 2020.

Law Enforcement Fayette County Sheriff’s Office The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office received a report at approximately 1:12 pm. Tuesday, June 3 of a vehicle accident on W Avenue near 210th Street, approximately 4 miles west of Hawkeye. After further investigation, it was determined Mary Martha Hegg, age 68 of Decorah was driving southbound in a Red 2025 Cadillac XT5 Premium when she fell asleep at the wheel, entered the ditch, struck a sign and then drove out of the ditch. Damage to the Cadillac was estimated at $5,000. The occupants reported no injuries. Hegg received a citation for failure to maintain control.

Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office Robert Anthony Neuzil, age 77, of Fort Atkinson was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon at approximately 9:17 p.m. Wednesday, June 4 in the 1300 block of 280th Avenue in Fort Atkinson.

A criminal complaint said deputies with the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Neuzil’s home that day and found a .22 caliber rifle as well as ammunition. Court documents also show Neuzil was accussed of first-degree harassment earlier that afternoon. A separate criminal complaint said Neuzil’s dog entered the property of a nearby resident and attacked the resident’s dog

while a child was playing outside.

The resident “obtained a firearm and shot it in the direction of Neuzil’s dog to scare it away,” according to the complaint, and Neuzil arrived soon afterward, allegedly stating “If you shoot my dog, I will shoot you,” and “If anything happens to my dog, your whole bunch is going to die.” Neuzil was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 10 p.m. Wednesday, June 4 for his possession of the rifle. Bond was set at $2,000.

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

AUCTION CALENDAR

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SATURDAY, JUNE 21 - 10 a.m. Real Estate Auction.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 19 - Online Auction - Kruse Machinery Liquidation Auction, ends June 19. Preview June 16, 10-2pm, Meadowlark Rd., Decorah. Cedar Valley Property Solutions. www.cvpsauctions.com.

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

TV earns win over CGD at Wayne Bergstrom Classic

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com

Pulpit to Pulpit 5K set for July 4 Annual race supports community causes

Lace up your running shoes and grab the leash for your fourlegged friend—Pulpit to Pulpit, the beloved 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk, is back on Friday, July 4, bringing together the Decorah community for a day of fitness, fun and fundraising.

Decorah’s annual Pulpit to Pulpit run/walk is scheduled to return the morning of Friday, July 4. The yearly event, hosted

by Pulpit Rock Brewing Company, will begin at 8 a.m. Runners, walkers, families and dogs can choose between a timed 5K and a non-timed 1-mile fun run/ walk. Both circuits start and end at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company in Decorah.

Registration may be completed online at runsignup.com/ Race/IA/Decorah/PulpitToPulpit for $30.

Information on donations and volunteer roles is also available through the website.

The annual run will once

again support a pair of local organizations. This year, funds will go toward the Greater Area Pantry of Calmar, which helps address fight food insecurity in the region, and RSVP of Northeast Iowa AmeriCorps Seniors, a program which connects older adults with volunteer opportunities that make a difference in various communities.

“We’re thrilled to bring everyone together again for a great cause,” said race organizer Steph Hughes. “Whether you’re racing for a PR, enjoying a stroll with your dog or just soaking up the community spirit, you’re helping support the people who need it most.”

Participants may pick up T-shirts and number bibs from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, July 3 at Pulpit Rock Brewing or after 7 a.m. the day of the run. Timing will be provided by True Time Racing Services for the 5K.

Norton receives Luther College’s Young Alumni Award

Chris Norton received Luther College’s 2025 Young Alumni Award in absentia during the college’s commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 25. Norton is a 2014 graduate of Luther College.

The college’s Young Alumni Award was established in 2003 and recognizes Luther alumni who have graduated in the last 15 years and have attained outstanding achievements in their vocation or avocation. Each year, an alum is presented with the award during commencement.

As a first-year student at Luther in 2010, Norton was injured during a football game and paralyzed from the neck down. He was given a 3 percent chance of ever moving below the neck again. After years of intense physical therapy and training, which college officials described as a stunning show of determination and perseverance, Norton walked across the stage during his graduation with the help of his then fiancé Emily. Video of the feat touched the world and went viral, with more than 300 million views.

Soon after, Chris and Emily set an ambitious new goal to walk 7 yards side-by-side down their wedding aisle, which they did in 2018. Norton’s eight-year journey is chronicled in the award-winning documentary “7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story.”

Luther officials said Norton has dedicated his life to empowering others to overcome their obstacles. Since graduating from Luther with a degree in business management, he has become a motivational speaker, best-selling author and the founder of the Chris Norton Foundation, which provides rehabilitation technology grants and organizes wheelchair camps free of charge for families living with disabilities. He

The Upper Iowa Conference baseball standings see the Kee High Hawks, South Winneshiek Warriors or the MFL MarMac Bulldogs near the top of the conference hierarchy on a regular basis.

So, when Dan Stepan’s young Turkey Valley Trojan (3-10, 2-6 UIC) squad can get three separate doubleheaders in the books against those aforementioned league behemoths and still remain standing, it’s noteworthy.

Pitch counts matter a lot more in prep baseball, where the state of Iowa changed those rules on the high school level several years ago to protect young arms. For teams that don’t have a bevy of hurlers, that can make twinbills difficult against favored opponents.

“Doubleheaders when you have unlimited pitching are an okay thing. Doubleheaders where you’re spreading out pitching sometimes you just gotta eat it every once in a while,” said Stepan.

Wayne Bergstrom Classic Friday the Trojans traveled to the inaugural Wayne Bergstrom Classic over in Clarion, hosted

by Clarion-Goldfield-Dows (59).

TV trailed Aplington-Parkersburg (5-5) by just a single run – down 1-0 – headed into the top of the seventh at that weekend tourney. The Falcons had trouble scoring against Logan Busta, who reached his pitch limit after six complete innings on the bump where he gave up just two hits and one earned run. A-P scored four in the seventh to win, 5-0.

“That was a quick, competi-

Suiting up for the Turkey Valley baseball team in 2025 are (front, l-r) assistant coach Adam Hanson, Hugo Busta, Mitchell Kriener, Nicholas Bernhard, Isaiah Wheeler, Jayden Rausch, assistant coach Noah Hanson; (back) assistant coach Steve Busta, Ethan Orvis, Wyatt Maklenburg, Logan Busta, Alex Hanson, JD Kruse, Jordan Kriener, Ethan Orvis, Cale Langreck and head coach Dan Stepan. (Photo by Kelly Terpstra/New Hampton Tribune) tive game. It just got away from us with an error or two in the seventh inning,” said Stepan.

The second game at the classic saw the Trojans take on CGD and take down the host school by a margin of 8-7.

Stepan said he was happy about his pitching and defense after the Cowboys strung together three-consecutive infield singles in the bottom of the fifth inning but did not score.

“We were able to get out of it,” said Stepan.

Busta doubled in that game as well and JD Kruse tripled.

JD Kruse came up with three hits apiece and Jordan Kriener knocked in two runs. Hunter Kruse worked four-plus innings and allowed six hits and zero earned runs to help get out of that jam in the fifth.

“We hit the ball well,” said Stepan. “We just scored some runs.”

Stepan said CGD installed a new synthetic playing surface at its baseball and softball complex. He said it’s state of the art.

“At Clarion they put in a brand new, all-turf field,” said Stepan. “It’s high tech. They

have a pitch-aware system where you can watch the game from six different angles. It’s pretty unreal.”

Hard hitting Kee TV took on the No. 9 Hawks of Kee High Monday in a doubleheader played in Jackson Junction. Game one started out in competitive fashion as TV closed the deficit to 3-2 in the bottom of the second inning on a Logan Busta double.

The Hawks, now 14-4 overall and 7-0 in league play, ended up getting to Trojan junior hurler Hunter Kruse, who surrendered three runs in that ensuing top of the third frame despite pitching well early on.

“I thought Hunter pitched well. He had six K’s and no walks. That’s what you need to do there. Our defense let us down,” said Stepan. “Against a team like that, some of our errors either led off innings or were with two outs. That’s just kind of costly and our guys know that stuff.”

The end result was a Kee High sweep by scores of 14-3 and 13-1.

TURKEY VALLEY 3, KEE 14 R H E Kee 3 0 3 3 0 2 3 14 16 1 TV 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 6 7 H. Kruse (LP) – 3IP, 6R, 8H, 6K; Bernhard (RP) – 2-2/3IP, 5R, 4H, 5BB, 1K; Braxton Steinlage (RP) – 1-1/3IP, 3R, 4H, 1K 2B – L. Busta 1; 1B – L. Busta 1; J. Kriener 1; JD Kruse 1; H. Kruse 1; Langreck 1; RBI – L. Busta 1; Hanson 1; H. Kruse 1; SB – L. Busta 1 TURKEY VALLEY 1, KEE 13 R H E Kee 0 4 0 1 1 3 4 13 10 0 TV 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 5 Hanson (LP) – 4UP, 5R, 5H, 5BB, 3K; Langreck (RP) – 1IP, 1R, 1H, 2BB; Rausch (RP) – 2/3IP, 3R, 2H, 2BB; JD Kruse (RP) – 1-1/3IP, 4R, 2H, 1BB 1B – Hanson 1; Langreck 1; Mitchell Kriener 1

Manderfield (WP) – 4IP, 4R, 4H, 7BB, 5K 3B – Jenna Throndson 1; 1B – Kuennen 2; Maklenburg 2; A. Lutgen 2; M. Lutgen 1; Schuchhardt 1; Bodensteiner 1; RBI – Schuchhardt 3; Maklenburg 2; A. Lutgen 2; Lukes 1; M. Lutgen 1; Throndson 1; Bodensteiner 1; SB – Kuennen 2; M. Lutgen 1

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com

and his wife have adopted five children and have been foster parents to more than 23 children. He also serves as the 10th grade youth group leader at his church. The couple currently lives in Florida.

Unfortunately, Norton was unable to attend last month’s commencement ceremony due to a family emergency. Elisabeth (Marvin) Sandersfeld, class of 2000 and president of the Luther Alumni Council, read a message to the class of 2025 on Norton’s behalf.

“Class of 2025, life will bring both triumphs and tribulations.

When challenges come — and they will — do not hesitate to call on our community. I promise they’ll show up for you,” Sandersfeld read to the audience. “The good news is, the Luther community you’ve been a part of doesn’t end today. Instead, as you move on, (the Luther community) can expand. So, going forward, be the one who shows up when others need support. And when your personal struggles become too heavy, have the courage to ask for help. Because receiving help is just as important as offering it.”

TURKEY VALLEY 8, C-G-D 7 R H E TV 2 0 3 0 2 0 0 812 0 C-G-D 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 7 8 0 Hunter Kruse (WP) – 4-1/3IP, 1R, 6H, 2BB, 6K; Hanson (SP) – 2-2/3IP, 6R, 2H, 6BB, 2K 3B – JD Kruse 1; 2B – L. Busta 1; 1B – Jordan Kriener 2; JD Kruse 2; Langreck 2; L. Busta 1; Hanson 1; H. Kruse 1; Bernhard 1; RBI – Kriener 2; JD Kruse 1; Hanson 1; SB – J. Kriener 2; L. Busta 1; JD Kruse 1; Langreck 1

Lady Trojans notch first wins of season

Taking the field in varsity action for the Turkey Valley softball team are (front, l-r) head coach Anthony Troyna, Addison Lutgen, Kendall Kuennen, Jenna Throndson, Karstyn Lukes, Annika Bodensteiner, Raelen Manderfield, Maddison McDanel, Makinley Lutgen, assistant coach Kristen Hackman, assistant coach Haley Kriener; (back) Alexis Elsbernd, Delaney Busta, Autumn Maklenburg and Morgan Vsetecka. (Photo by Kelly Terpstra/New Hampton Tribune)

Chris Norton

TURKEY VALLEY 0, A-P 5 R H E A-P 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 5 5 1 TV 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 4 L. Busta (LP) – 6IP, 2R, 2H, 3BB, 3K; Langreck (RP) – 1IP, 3R, 2H, 1BB, 1K 1B – L. Busta 2; Alex Hanson 1

The Turkey Valley softball team (3-9, 2-2 UIC) brought the lumber to Postville (0-5, 0-4 UIC) last week Wednesday with a doubleheader sweep over the host Pirates by scores of 15-0 and 14-4.

Those wins for the Trojans were the first of the season and highlighted a jam-packed week for TV, who also earned win No. 3 on the season with an impressive 6-3 takedown of Waukon at the North Fayette Valley Invite on Saturday.

“We’re doing and seeing a lot of great things, we just have to get some consistency with what we’re doing and then we will see more success,” said coach Anthony Troyna, in his first season as head coach of the Trojans.

TV collected 12 hits in the opener versus the winless Pirates. Karstyn Lukes and Makinley Lutgen each came up with three hits apiece and three runs knocked in. Madi McDanel racked up four RBI. Annika Bodensteiner did not allow an earned run in four innings of work in the first game.

She struck out three and walked two in her three-hitter.

Layni Schuchhardt amassed three RBI in the nightcap versus the Pirates and Raelen Manderfield earned the win inside the circle. She struck out five

Pirates.

On Friday at West Union in the NFV Invite, TV played one of its better games of the year despite losing 9-7 to Oelwein.

McDanel was a perfect 4-for4 at the dish with three RBI and a double.

Outside of two bad innings – the third and fifth – TV outplayed the Huskies.

“This has been my favorite game of the season. This was one of our most complete games we have played so far this season,” said coach Troyna. “We were extremely happy with the girls after this game, seeing them play the way we know they can play in all phases of the game!”

TV ended up losing in game two on Friday to Edgewood-Colesburg, 23-0.

On Saturday the Trojans lost to Maquoketa, 11-2 but bounced back with a solid win over Waukon.

Bodensteiner twirled her magic inside the circle with five

innings of work, which saw her give up just three hits and one earned run.

McDanel and Lutgen each doubled in the win and senior shortstop Morgan Vsetecka plated two runs.

“This was a good game to end the weekend tournament and respond back from our first game of the day,” said the TV head coach.

On Monday TV hosted NFV and the TigerHawks took it to the Trojans with a 12-1 and 5-1 sweep of the league twinbill.

TURKEY VALLEY 15, POST. 0 R H E TV 2 2 7 4 x x x 15 12 1 Post 0 0 0 0 x x x 0 6 3 Bodensteiner (WP) – 4IP, 3H, 2BB, 3K 2B – Makinley Lutgen 2; Morgan Vsetecka 1; 1B – Karstyn Lukes 3; Madi McDanel 2; Vsetecka 1; M. Lutgen 1; Addison Lutgen 1; Layni Schuchhardt 1; RBI – McDanel 4; Lukes 2; Vsetecka 2; M. Lutgen 2; Autumn Maklenburg 1; SB – Brynlee Hayek 3; Kendall Kuennen 1; Lukes 1; A. Lutgen 1 TURKEY VALLEY 14, POST. 4 R H E TV 4 6 4 0 x x x 14 10 2 Post 1 1 2 0 x x x 4 4 2

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TURKEY VALLEY 7, OELWEIN 9 R H E TV 1 4 0 1 0 1 0 7 9 3 Oel 0 0 4 0 5 0 x 9 8 3 Manderfield (LP) – 3-2/3IP, 4R, 2H, 6BB, 1K; Bodensteiner (RP) – 5R, 5H, 1BB 2B – McDanel 1; 1B – McDanel 3; Kuennen 2; Vsetecka 1; Maklenburg 1; Schuchhardt 1; RBI – Kuennen 2; McDanel 2; Vsetecka 1; SB – Kuennen 3; Throndson 1 TURKEY VALLEY 0, ED-CO 23 R H E TV 0 0 0 0 x x x 0 1 6 Ed-Co 118 2 2 x x x 23 23 1 Lukes (LP) – 1-1/3IP, 9R, 8H, 4BB; Manderfield (RP) – 0IP, 8R, 4H, 4BB; Bodensteiner (RP) – 2/3IP, 2R, 2H, 1BB; Courtney Ball (RP) – 2IP, 4R, 2H, 2BB 1B – McDanel 1 TURKEY VALLEY 2, MAQ. 11 R H E TV 0 0 0 2 0 x x 2 2 3 Maq 6 2 0 2 1 x x 11 15 1 Lukes (LP) – 1IP, 6R, 4H, 2BB; Manderfield (RP) – 4IP, 5R, 7H, 2BB, 2K 1B – Kuennen 1; Schuchhardt 1; RBI – Kuennen 1 TURKEY VALLEY 6, WAUKON 3 R H E TV 0 2 3 1 0 x x 6 4 2 Wau 1 0 2 0 0 x x 3 5 2 Bodensteiner (WP) – 5IP, 3R, 3H, 2BB, 1K 2B – McDanel 1; M. Lutgen 1; 1B – Bodensteiner 1; Maklenburg 1; RBI – McDanel 1; Bodensteiner 1; Maklenburg 1; Schuchhardt 1 TURKEY VALLEY 0, NFV 12 R H NFV 3 4 0 5 x x x 12 10 TV 0 0 0 0 x x x 0 2 Manderfield (LP) – 4IP, 12R, 10H, 4BB, 3K 1B – Maklenburg 1; Schuchhardt 1 TURKEY VALLEY 1, NFV 5 R H NFV 0 0 1 2 1 1 0 5 11 TV 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 Bodensteiner (LP) – 7IP, 5R, 11H, 2BB 2B – Vsetecka 1; SB – Hayek 2

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SPORTS

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

Offensive bursts

Continued from page 16

South Winn’s Carver Wenthold got a face full of dirt as he slid into third base without the throw down to the New Hampton player at last week’s game. (Photo by Becky Walz) Monday sweep Opening up their week at Postville (0-3, 0-3 UIC) Monday evening, the Warriors put up big runs in their contests with several guys up and down the lineup having big offensive performances. In the pair of four-inning games, South Winn won 19-3 and 20-0.

Nolan Sabelka and Jordan Einck picked up the wins on the mound with Einck tossing the four innings in game two allowing just one hit.

“This is a busy week for us and our guys were efficient on the mound and we played well defensively behind them. Hopefully we can carry the offensive momentum into our upcoming games,” said coach Smith.

SOUTH WINN 1, NH 6 R H E SW 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 4 NH 3 2 0 0 1 0 x 6 8 3 William Timp (LP) – 5IP, 6R, 7H,

4BB, 4K; Nolan Sabelka (RP) – 1IP, 1H, 2K 1B – Braiden Todd 1; Eric Greve 1; RBI – Timp 1 SOUTH WINN 15, NFV 7 R H E SW 2 1 0 3 1 3 5 15 11 1 NFV 0 0 0 6 0 1 0 7 9 3 Todd (WP) – 4IP, 1R, 4H, 1BB, 6K; Jordan Einck (SP) – 3IP, 6R, 5H, 2K 3B – Todd 1; 2B – Sid Hesse 2; 1B – Sabelka 2; Hesse 2; Todd 1; Greve 1; J. Einck 1; Gavin Thuente 1; RBI – Hesse 3; Sabelka 2; Todd 2; Greve 1; J. Einck 1; Timp 1; SB – Sabelka 3; Greve 2; J. Einck 1; Carver Wenthold 1; Hugh Conway 1 SOUTH WINN 11, RICEVILLE 1 R H E Rice 0 0 0 0 1 x x 1 4 1 SW 4 1 6 0 x x x 11 4 1 Wenthold (WP) – 4IP, 4H, 5K; Hesse (RP) – 1IP, 1R, 1BB; Timp (RP) – 0IP 2B – Hesse 1; 1B – J. Einck 1; Timp 1; Caden Meyer 1; RBI – Hesse 3; Timp 2; Greve 1; J. Einck 1; Landon Steffans 1; Hayden Tieskoetter 1; SB – Sabelka 1; Greve 1; J. Einck 1 SOUTH WINN 5, ED-CO 0 R H E SW 0 2 0 0 3 0 0 5 9 2 Ed-Co 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0

Tieskoetter (WP) – 5IP, 4H, 3BB, 12K; Sabelka (RP) – 2IP, 3BB, 4K 1B – J. Einck 2; Wenthold 2; Sabelka 1; Todd 1; Greve 1; Timp 1; Cameron Einck 1; RBI – Wenthold 2; Greve 1; Timp 1; SB – Wenthold 2; Todd 1; Timp 1; J. Einck 1

Growth continues for Decorah softball Producing three wins in the last week, the Decorah softball team (6-3, 2-1 NEIC) endured stiff competition in and out of the Northeast Iowa Conference.

nine hits including doubles by Luzum, Hjelle and Steine. Liz Bucksa was 2-for-4, while Lillian Olson went 2-for-3 in the batter’s box.

At home Thursday, the Vikings had the offensive shutting out Waukon (2-7, 0-3 NEIC), at home 5-0.

After receiving a free base, Jasera Tweten scored Decorah’s first run of the contest on a double by Lauren Luzum in the first inning. Clara Hjelle’s sacrifice fly to left field scored Luzum, putting the Vikes up 2-0.

In the second frame a single by Tweten sent Dylin Thompson on two outs pushing Decorah out to a 3-0 advantage. The final scoring wrapped up with a two-RBI double by Ava Steine in the fifth stanza.

Hjelle had a stellar night in the circle sitting down 12 batters while giving up six hits.

The Vikings connected for

Tough night Friday the Vikings fell 9-0 to Class 4A top ranked Xavier (11-0) in Cedar Rapids in four innings.

The home team scored five times in the first, then tacked on three in the third and one in the fourth to end the contest early.

Decorah had no hits.

SOUTH WINN 20, POSTVILLE 0 R H E SW 2 14 4 x x x x 20 11 2 Post 0 0 0 x x x x 0 1 1 J. Einck (WP) – 4IP, 1BB, 5K 2B – Todd 1; Greve 1; J. Einck 1; 1B – Timp 3; Hesse 2; Todd 1; Greve 1; J. Einck 1; RBI – Greve 4; J. Einck 4; Timp 4; Hesse 2; Sabelka 1; Todd 1; Wenthold 1; C. Einck 1

Decorah’s Liz Bucksa is called safe at home under the tag of the New Hampton pitcher Monday night in the top of the seventh inning. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Going on the road for their first conference action Monday, the South Winn softball team (4-7, 2-0 UIC) swept the twinbill after a harsh week last week.

SOUTH WINN 0, ED-CO 2 R H E SW 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 Ed-Co 0 0 0 0 2 0 x 2 8 1 Gesing (LP) – 6IP, 2R, 8H 1B – Addison Timp 1; Hageman 1; Chloe Wiltgen 1; Izzy Kuboushek 1

Hageman homers On the road Wednesday, June 4, South Winn tussled with Class 1A No. 13 Wapsie Valley (7-0), falling 6-1.

The Gold and Black Warriors put up the first six runs of the game with one in the first and a five-inning fourth. The Red and White scored just one run — a solo blast by Britney Hageman in the top of the seventh. Caylie Adam had South Winn’s other hit of the contest.

Bailey Kuennen and Aubree Gesing teamed up on the mound, giving up four earned runs on eight hits and striking out three.

SOUTH WINN 3, BECKMAN 4 R H Beck 0 0 2 0 1 1 0 4 6 SW 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 8 Kuennen (LP) – 6IP, 4R, 6H, 1BB, 2K HR – Kuennen 1; 1B – Ad. Timp 2; Alyssa Holthaus 2; Adrienne Winings 1; Kuennen 1; Caylie Adam 1; Kuboushek 1; RBI – Kuennen 2; Ad. Timp 1

Tournament The Warriors trekked to West Union Friday and Saturday to participate in the North Fayette Valley tournament, going 1-3 overall.

Opening the event Friday with Ed-Co (8-1), the Warriors struggled to get the bats going and fell 2-0 as the Vikings put up two runs in the fifth. South Winn had just four singles in the contest with one apiece by Addison Timp, Hageman, Chloe Wiltgen and Izzy Kuboushek.

Leading 3-2 after the third inning in game two against Beckman Catholic (6-5), South Winn gave up scores in the fifth and sixth to drop the contest 4-3.

Freshman Bailey Kuennen connected for her first ever home run with a pair of RBI. Ad. Timp and Alyssa Holthaus provided two hits apiece with Timp driving in one.

Saturday morning, the Warriors picked up their lone win over Maquoketa (5-9). South Winn took the game 7-3 while collecting nine hits. Hageman was 2-for-2 with a triple and RBI. Abby Wagner went 2-for3 and drove in three, while Wiltgen had two hits with a pair of RBI. Ending the tournament against Independence (2-9), the

Putting the bunt down in a recent South Winn softball contest is Adrienne Winings. (Photo by Becky Walz)

UIC action Packing up their gear Monday, the Warriors headed to Maynard for their first Upper Iowa Conference doubleheader of the season with West Central (0-9, 0-4) and came home with the clean sweep, 14-1 and 12-0.

Game one saw the Blue Devils score their lone run in the bottom of the first which would also be the only time the home team led at 1-0. In the top of the second, the Warriors brought the heat at the plate as they scored 10 runs. SW tacked on three in the third and finished the game early with one in the fourth.

Wiltgen smashed her first out of the park home run as one of the Warriors’ five hits. Ad. Timp pounded out two while Winings tagged the ball once. Wagner also had a triple which drove in three runs. Gesing twirled for the Warriors with one run scored on six hits and struck out five.

The nightcap was also a

Challenged Saturday Decorah went 1-1 at the Marion tournament, dropping a game to Marion (4-5) and defeating Davenport Central (2-7) It was a close finish against the host Wolves after the Vikings mounted a late charge to score eight runs in the final two frames. Decorah trailed

NEIC doubleheader Rained out last week, the Vikings finally got the chance to take the field at New Hampton (6-4, 1-2 NEIC) Monday night, splitting the evening with the Chickasaws.

Game one was a slow go in the offensive department for both teams until late in the game. Decorah held a 1-0 lead after the first frame that held until the sixth when Chickasaw first baseman Caycee Crawford cranked one out of the park with two baserunners. Trailing for the first time in the contest, Decorah opened the seventh with single by Dylin Thompson who then scored on Liz Bucksa’s double. Luzum came in clutch as she stepped up to the plate to pummel her own home run to give the Vikings a slim 4-3 lead which was good enough for the win.

New Hampton owned the nightcap, putting up two runs

SOUTH WINN 19, POSTVILLE 3 R H E SW 2 6 1 3 7 x x 19 10 0 Post 3 0 0 0 0 x x 3 5 4 Sabelka (WP) – 3IP, 2H, 1K; Timp (SP) - 1-2/3IP, 3R, 3H, 2BB, 4K; Thuente (RP) – 1/3IP 2B – Todd 1; Greve 1; 1B – Timp 2; Wenthold 2; Sabelka 1; Greve 1; Hesse 1; J. Einck 1; RBI – Todd 4; Wenthold 3; Hesse 2; J. Einck 2; Timp 1; Meyer 1; Thuente 1; SB – Wenthold 3; Sabelka 1; Timp 1; Brandon Kriener 1

Lady Warriors get back on track with wins over WC

Warriors put up just one run, losing 2-1. South Winn had five hits in the contest with one each

by Ad. Timp, Adrienne Winings, Kuennen, Adam and Kuboushek.

Throughout the tournament Kuennen and Gesing shared the mound with Gesing earning the win against Maquoketa. Kuennen tallied five Ks while Gesing rang up six batters.

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four-inning contest as the Warriors shut out the home team 12-0. Nine runs in the first by South Winn put the game out of range for the Blue Devils early.

SW only added to their tally with two in the second and one in the third.

Rapping out seven hits, the Warriors saw new faces at the plate including Maya Lensing who debuted in the pitcher’s circle in relief. Alyssa Timp, Sophia Dvorak, Jadrienne Langreck, Charlotte Moonen and Wagner all had one hit apiece.

Adam pounded out a double in the game as well.

SOUTH WINN 1, WA. VALLEY 6 R H E SW 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 2 WV 1 0 0 5 0 0 x 6 9 0 Bailey Kuennen (LP) – 3-1/3IP, 6R, 7H, 1BB, 2K; Aubree Gesing (RP) – 2-2/3IP, 2H, 1K HR – Britney Hageman 1; 1B – Caylie Adam

SOUTH WINN 7, MAQUOKETA 3 Gesing (WP) – 5IP, 3R, 9H, 7K 3B – Hageman 1; 1B – Wiltgen 2; Abby Wagner 2; Hageman 1; Kuennen 1; Kuboushek 1; Holthaus 1; RBI – Wagner 3; Wiltgen 2; Hageman 1; Kuennen 1; SB – Ad. Timp 1; Winings 1; Hageman 1; Addy Conway 1 SOUTH WINN 1, IND. 2 R H E SW 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 5 0 Ind 0 0 2 0 0 0 x 2 7 0 Kuennen (LP) – 7IP, 2R, 6H, 5BB, 1K 1B – Ad. Timp 1; Winings 1; Kuennen 1; Adam 1; Kuboushek 1 SOUTH WINN 14, W. CENTRAL 1 R H E SW 010 3 1 x x x 14 5 0 WC 1 0 0 0 x x x 1 4 6 Aubree Gesing (WP) – 4IP, 1R, 6H, 5K HR – Wiltgen 1; 3B – Wagner 1; 1B – Ad. Timp 2; Winings 1; RBI – Wagner 3; Ad. Timp 2; Winings 1; Hageman 1; Wiltgen 1; Kuboushek 1; Holthaus 1; SB – Ad. Timp 1; Conway 1

5-0 entering the sixth inning when Luzum blasted a ball out of the park to jumpstart the offense. The Vikings would score four more runs to lead 6-5 before Marion batted through their line-up for six of its own.

Two runs in the seventh wasn’t enough to push Decorah to the win as the Vikings fell 11-8.

Hitting 3-for-4 to lead the Vikes was Olson while Luzum and Steine were 2-for-4. Hjelle took the loss in the circle with four Ks. Decorah rebounded from the loss with an 8-4 win over Davenport Central later in the day.

The Vikes scored twice in the second and once in the third but still faced a 4-3 deficit as the Blue Devils pushed two runs home in each the third and fourth frames. After sending 11 batters to the plate in the sixth, the Vikings rang up five runs and sat down the Davenport Central batters 1-2-3 in the top of the seventh to secure the win.

Tweten got the win as she joined Hjelle in the pitcher’s circle. The two combined for nine strikeouts.

Kate Pattison tagged the ball for two hits, driving in three runs, while Olson had two hits, including a double with an RBI.

in the first, one in the second and three in each of the fifth and sixth innings while holding Decorah to a lone run in the third to win 9-1.

No stats were available at press time.

DECORAH 5, WAUKON 0 R H E Wau 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 2 Dec 2 1 0 0 2 0 0 5 9 4 Clara Hjelle (WP) – 7IP, 6H, 12K 2B – Lauren Luzum 1; Hjelle 1; Ava Steine 1; 1B – Liz Bucksa 2; Lillian Olson 2; Jasera Tweten 1; Dylin Thompson 1; RBI – Steine 2; Tweten 1; Luzum 1; Hjelle 1; SB – Bucksa 1 DECORAH 0, XAVIER 9 R H E Dec 0 0 0 0 0 x x 0 0 5 Xav 5 0 3 1 x x x 9 5 0 Hjelle (LP) – 4IP, 9R, 5H, 4BB, 2K DECORAH 8, MARION 11 R H E Dec 0 0 0 0 0 6 2 8 9 4 Mar 3 1 0 0 1 6 x 11 11 2 Hjelle (LP) – 6IP, 11R, 11H, 1BB, 4K HR – Luzum 1; 2B – Steine 1; 1B – Olson 3; Bucksa 1; Luzum 1; Steine 1; Thompson 1; RBI – Bucksa 2; Luzum 2; Kate Pattison 1; Steine 1; Thompson 1; SB – Tweten 1; Thompson 1 DECORAH 8, DAV. CENTRAL 4 R H E DC 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 4 7 1 Dec 0 2 1 0 0 5 x 8 9 3 Tweten (WP) – 3IP, 2R, 4H, 2BB, 3K; Hjelle (RP) – 4IP, 2R, 1BB, 6K 2B – Olson 1; 1B – Pattison 2; Bucksa 1; Tweten 1; Hjelle 1; Olson 1; Olivia Brynsaas 1; Thompson 1; RBI – Pattison 3; Bucksa 2; Hjelle 1; Olson 1

SOUTH WINN 12, W. CENTRAL 0 R H E SW 9 2 1 x x x x 12 7 0 WC 0 0 0 x x x x 0 4 3 Kuennen (WP) – 2IP, 3H, 1BB, 1K; Maya Lensing (RP) – 2IP, 2H, 1BB, 2K 2B – Adam 1; 1B – Lensing 1; Alyssa Timp 1; Wagner 1; Sophia Dvorak 1; Jadrienne Langreck 1; Charlotte Moonen 1; SB – Ad. Timp 1; Winings 1; Hageman 1

Coming up in area high school sports June 12 – Dec sb vs. Crestwood (JV/V), 5:30 p.m.; SW bb at Janesville (V/JV), 5 p.m.; TV bb at MFL MarMac (JV/V), 5 p.m.; SW sb at Nashua-Plainfield (JV/V), 6 p.m.

June 13 – Dec/SW sb at Jesup tnmt. (V), 9 a.m.; TV bb vs. New Hampton (V/JV), 4 p.m.; Dec bb vs. Charles City (V), 5 p.m.; SW bb at Center Point-Urbana (JV/V), 5 p.m.

June 14 – Dec/SW sb at Jesup tnmt. (V), 9 a.m.; Dec bb vs.

Ottumwa/South Winn (V), 10 a.m.

June 16 – TV bb vs. Waukon (V/JV), 4 p.m.; SW bb vs. North Fayette Valley (V), 5 p.m.; SW sb vs. North Fayette Valley (V), 5 p.m.; TV sb vs. Central Elkader (V), 5 p.m.

June 17 – TV bb at North Fayette Valley (V/JV), 4 p.m.; Dec bb at Crestwood (V), 5 p.m.; SW bb at Kee (JV/V), 5 p.m.; Dec sb at Charles City (JV/V), 5:30 p.m.; SW sb vs. Waukon (JV/V), 5:30 p.m.

June 18 – SW bb at Clayton Ridge (V), 4 p.m.; Dec bb at West Delaware (JV/V), 5 p.m.; SW sb at MFL MarMac (V), 5 p.m.; TV bb at Postville (JV/V), 5 p.m.; TV sb at Kee (V), 5 p.m.

Viking first baseman Ava Steine watches the ball into her glove for the final out of game one with New Hampton Monday night. (Photo by Becky Walz)

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

Decorah boys tennis takes fourth at state

The Decorah boys tennis team took fourth at the Class 1A state team tournament and showcased their trophy. (Front, l-r) Tyler Shaw, Keaton Nalean-Carlson, Liam Chamberlain, Beau Newhouse; (back) head coach Matt Anderson, Aitor Cuevas, Tristan Hunter, Elliot Berland, Caleb Krieg, assistant coach Brett Wilker and assistant coach Scott Hermann. (submitted photo)

Talent continues to rise for the Decorah boys tennis team as it made the final four at the state tournament for the third time in as many years last week.

Entering the tournament undefeated, the Vikings were seeded fourth and opened play against Ballard Tuesday, June 3, winning 5-3.

At No. 2 Tristan Hunter won 6-4, 6-1 over Isaiah Ziegler and No. 3 Keaton Nalean-Carlson topped Rex Olsan 6-1, 6-1. Caleb Krieg took the No. 5 singles match 6-1, 6-2 from Seth Hilleman.

Rain forced senior Aitor Cuevas and his opponent Eli Preston to move their No. 6 match inside. The Vikings prevailed 6-7, 7-6, 1-0. Moving into doubles play to determine the winner, Liam Chamberlain and Krieg defeated Miller and

Zeigler 6-1, 6-4 to advance the Vikings into the semifinals.

Later Tuesday, Decorah faced top-seeded Xavier, falling 5-0 in singles action.

“The team played with some nerves being the favorite going into the meet, but eventually the experience and hard work won the day. That advanced us to the semi-finals against eventual champion Xavier, but the boys put a great fight. The scores didn’t show it but we had lots of very close deuce games and tough matches,” said coach Matt Anderson.

Wednesday morning (June 4) Decorah lost a close third-place match to Sergeant Bluff-Luton 5-3. Elliot Berland won his No. 4 singles match 6-0, 6-3 over Dylan Janzen. Krieg also came out victorious in singles action at No. 5, winning 6-4, 4-6, 1-0

over Brayton Ouellette.

Trailing 4-2 the Vikings went into doubles play. Krieg and Cuevas won the No. 3 match 6-4, 0-6, 1-0 over Janzen and Braxton Van Meter, while Hunter and Berland dropped a hard match 5-7, 6-1, 0-1 to Tyler Grote and Carter Gehling at No. 2.

“This match was the best effort and quality match of the year and sends us into the off season hungry to improve,” concluded coach Anderson.

The Vikings have graduated a number of athletes including key contributors Liam Chamberlain, Caleb Krieg, Aitor Cuevas as well as Bryan Ajzac, Gavin Groux, Ansel Kowitz, Andrew Kruger, Steven Munoz, Beau Newhouse and Domenik Smith.

Vikings hit six-game win streak during busy week

Since dropping a disappointing contest at Mason City, the Decorah baseball team (8-2, 6-0 NEIC) hasn’t lost a contest.

That’s six wins in a row.

Make-up game Nearly a week from the start of the game, the Vikings and Crestwood (0-8, 0-2 NEIC) finished game two of their conference doubleheader that had been rained out. Decorah trailed 2-0 at the time; however, the time off must have put some fire in the Vikings as they only gave up one run in the seventh to the Cadets to win 8-3 Wednesday afternoon.

Single runs in the fourth and fifth evened the playing field with Crestwood. Decorah batted through the line-up in the bottom of the sixth, taking advantage of three walks, three singles and an error to score six runs to secure the win.

Keaton Riehle earned the win on the hill with Cain Monreal-Rice and Cash Riehle also throwing for the Vikings.

Five hits by Mason Avila, Ethan Kuennen, Monreal-Rice, Brayden Wemark and Austin Helgerson contributed to the win with Helgerson driving in three of those runs.

Viking shortstop Kaden Alstad fires to first base. (Photo

by Kelly Terpstra/New Hampton Tribune) Non-conference Hours after defeating Crestwood, the Vikings hosted a non-conference game with Center Point-Urbana (1-5), edging out the visitors 9-8.

The pressure was on Decorah early as the Stormin’ Pointers lit up the scoreboard with six runs in the opening two frames.

Monreal-Rice gave the Vikings their first run in the bottom of the second, utilizing an issued walk and pass balls to score. In the third, Monreal-Rice came up with a two-RBI single, giving Decorah two more. Still training 6-4 into the fifth, Decorah went to work again and took a 7-6 lead and extended it to 9-6.

CPU threated in the top of the seventh, scoring two runs on two outs on a pair of Viking errors before Avila struck out the final batter for the win.

Avila threw the final two frames to secure the win with six Ks. Decorah tagged the ball for six hits including a double

by Kaden Alstad. Knocking out singles were Kasen Tyler, Gavin Knutson, Monreal-Rice, Brayden Wemark and C. Riehle.

League sweep The busy week of action continued Friday at New Hampton (12-2, 0-2 NEIC) with a NEIC

South Winn catcher Braiden Todd reached to tag the Chickasaw player at the plate just a little too late during last week’s game in New Hampton. (Photo by Becky Walz)

SW baseball starting to Decorah’s Brayden Wemark makes a diving effort to catch a foul ball in front of New Hampton fire on all cylinders head coach Cory McDonald and the Viking dugout last week. (Photo by Kelly Terpstra/New Hampton Tribune)

twinbill that saw Decorah sweep the Chickasaws, 7-4 and 11-1.

In game one, Alstad got the Vikings their first runs with a three-run blast over the fence.

New Hampton got one back in the bottom of the same inning.

Decorah rattled off another three-run frame in the fifth and kept the Chickasaws off the board until the sixth when the home team scored twice. Each squad added one run in the seventh.

C. Riehle had a good outing on the mound for the win.

Decorah had six hits in the contest with Alstad going 2-for2 with three RBI. Gavin Knutson had a double and scored a run.

In the nightcap, Decorah ended the game in five frames with scoring four times in the third, once in the fourth and six runs in the fifth.

Wemark went the distance on the hill with eight strikeouts.

At the plate, Trevor Kuennen and C. Riehle were 2-for-3 and drove in one.

Close games Closing out last week at Waukon (3-5, 2-2 NEIC), the Vikings took the doubleheader which had been postponed from Tuesday due to rain.

Waukon kicked off game one with a run scored in the bottom of the first stanza before the Viking offense went to work.

A double by Wemark to start the second frame and an Indian error put on Austin Helgerson grounder put two Vikings on the bases. A pass ball while C.

Riehle was at the plate allowed Wemark to score and Helgerson added another Viking run on a fielder’s choice.

Through the middle portion of the game, both NEIC squads suffered a scoring drought before Waukon’s Cael Lange hit a two-run shot over the fence.

Trailing 3-2 into the top of the seventh, Decorah had another chance to pull ahead. The Vikings sent eight batters to the box, scoring three runs to secure the 5-3 victory.

K. Riehle had a good start for the Vikings, throwing the first five innings. Tyler earned the save as the two combined for five Ks. Decorah combined for 10 hits with Wemark leading the way as he went 3-for-4 with a double. Avila was 2-for-3, scoring once and driving in a run. C. Riehle was 2-for-3.

A trio of three-run innings gave Decorah a boost in game two, with the winning run coming in the top of the seventh. In each the first, fourth and fifth innings, the Vikings pushed three runs home while Waukon’s even scoring in nearly every frame had the score 9-8 in favor of Decorah heading into the seventh.

Leading off the seventh, Tyler was issued a walk and scampered around the bases on a pass ball before Alstad’s single sent him home for the go-ahead run. Waukon got one back in the bottom of the final inning and had the tying run at third before Decorah closed out the game.

Avila got the win, throwing the three and a third innings

as Tyler picked up his second save of the day. Ethan Kuennen also made an appearance on the mound.

DECORAH 8, CRESTWOOD 3 R H E Crest 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 3 3 Dec 0 0 0 1 1 6 x 8 5 1 Keaton Riehle (WP) – 2IP, 1R, 2H, 2BB, 2K; Cain Monreal-Rice (SP) – 2-2/3IP, 2R, 1H, 3BB, 2K; Cash Riehle (RP) – 2-1/3IP, 1K 1B – Mason Avila 1; Ethan Kuennen 1; Monreal-Rice 1; Brayden Wemark 1; Austin Helgerson 1; RBI – Helgerson 3; E. Kuennen 2; Wemark 2; SB – Avila 2; Kaden Alstad 1; E. Kuennen 1; Gavin Knutson 1; Caden Hubka 1 DECORAH 9, CPU 8 R H E CPU 2 4 0 0 0 0 2 8 8 2 Dec 0 1 3 0 3 2 x 9 6 3 Avila (WP) – 2IP, 1BB, 6K; MonrealRice (SP) – 1-2/3IP, 6R, 4H, 5BB; Kasen Tyler (RP) – 1/3IP, 1K; Wemark (RP) – 1-2/3IP, 2R, 3H, 1BB, 1K; E. Kuennen (RP) – 1-1/3IP, 2BB, 2K 2B – Alstad 1; 1B – Tyler 1; Knutson 1; Monreal-Rice 1; Wemark 1; C. Riehle 1; RBI – Monreal-Rice 2; Avila 1; Wemark 1; C. Riehle 1; SB – Avila 1 DECORAH 7, NEW HAMPTON 4 R H E Dec 0 0 3 0 3 0 1 7 6 3 NH 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 4 8 0 Riehle (WP) – 7IP, 4R, 8H, 3K HR – Alstad 1; 2B – Knutson 1; 1B – Tyler 1; Alstad 1; Wemark 1; Trevor Kuennen 1; RBI – Alstad 3; Tyler 1; Helgerson 1; T. Kuennen 1; SB – Nathan Wymer 1; Caleb Krieg 1; Tyler 1

After dropping a non-conference game Wednesday, June 4, the South Winn baseball team (7-4, 5-2 UIC) are on a fivegame win streak.

Limited hits The Warriors hit several balls hard with runners in scoring position but couldn’t buy a hit and ended the game with just two total hits against New Hampton Wednesday, June 4 on the road, falling 6-1.

The Chickasaws jumped out to an early 5-0 lead after two innings that included a leadoff home run in the bottom of the first inning. William Timp settled in on the mound to provide fiving innings of work and Nolan Sabelka tossed a solid sixth inning to hold the Chickasaws to just one run score over their final four offensive innings.

“This was a great early season matchup for us to see a team of their caliber. Our guys had to work hard in all facets and outside of a couple mistakes, I feel like we competed really well,” said coach Alex Smith.

Braiden Todd and Eric Greve connected for singles for South Winn.

Back to UIC play Thursday evening

South

DECORAH 11, NEW HAMPTON 1 R H E Dec 0 0 4 1 6 x x 11 6 2 NH 0 0 1 0 0 x x 1 3 6 Wemark (WP) – 5IP, 1R, 3H, 3BB, 8K 2B – C. Riehle 1; 1B – Kuennen 2; Alstad 1; Wemark 1; C. Riehle 1; RBI – Alstad 3; Avila 1; Knutson 1; Monreal-Rice 1; Wemark 1; Kuennen 1; C. Riehle 1; SB – Monreal-Rice 1 DECORAH 5, WAUKON 3 R H E Dec 0 2 0 0 0 0 3 5 10 4 Wau 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 3 4 4 K. Riehle (WP) – 5IP, 1R, 1H, 3BB, 3K; Tyler (Save) – 2IP, 2R, 3H, 2K 2B – Wemark 1; 1B – Wemark 2; Avila 2; C. Riehle 2; Tyler 1; Knutson 1; E. Kuennen 1; RBI – Avila 1; Tyler 1; Knutson 1; SB – Tyler 1

Viking second baseman Kasen Tyler calls for the pop fly as Austin Helgerson scampers out of the way during Friday’s NEIC twinbill in New Hampton. (Photo by Kelly Terpstra/New Hampton Tribune)

DECORAH 10, WAUKON 9 R H E Dec 3 0 0 3 3 0 1 10 8 5 Wau 1 0 1 2 3 1 1 9 6 4 Avila (WP) – 3-1/3IP, 3R, 4H, 3BB, 8K; E. Kuennen (RP) – 2/3IP, 3R, 1H, 3BB; Tyler (Save) – 3IP, 3R, 1H, 2BB, 2K 2B – Avila 1; Alstad 1; Wymer 1; Monreal-Rice 1; 1B – Avila 1; Tyler 1; Alstad 1; Knutson 1; RBI – MonrealRice 4; Alstad 3; Knutson 1; E. Kuennen 1; Henry Brynsaas 1; SB – Carter Riley 1

Eric Greve steers himself under the pop fly down the first base line at New Hampton during last week’s non-conference game. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Winn headed to West Union to take on North Fayette Valley (09, 0-8 UIC) in a UIC matchup, winning 15-7.

The Warriors jumped out to an early 6-0 lead, but NFV responded with a big fourth inning to tie the game. A big two-out single by Sid Hesse got the Warriors back on top and the Warriors exploded for eight additional runs in the final two innings to secure the victory.

“We came out strong early to take the lead and even though we hit a rough stretch in the middle of the game, I thought our guys responded really well to put the game away,” noted coach Smith.

Todd and Jordan Einck combined for eight strikeouts on the hill. In the batter’s box the Warriors united for 11 hits with Hesse going 4-for-5 with a double and three RBI. Todd and Sabelka each collected a pair of hits and drove in two runs.

Triangular Playing at home Saturday, South Winn picked up a pair of wins over Riceville (7-6) and Ed-Co (2-6) in a triangular.

Pitching and solid defense were the key for the Warriors, as Carver Wenthold and Hayden Tieskoetter had strong outings in the starting roles and Sid Hesse and Nolan Sabelka closed down each game.

“Pitching depth is a strength of ours and I feel really good about where we are at with a number of guys that are capable of shutting teams down,” said coach Smith.

The day opened with an 11-1 four-inning win over Riceville highlighted by a three-RBI double by Hesse. J. Einck, Timp and Caden Meyer also rapped out hits with Timp driving in two runs.

A powerful pitching performance by eighth-grader Hayden Tieskoetter highlighted game two against Ed-Co. Tieskoetter struck out 12 batters to pick up the win as the Warriors defeated the Vikings 5-0. SW opened the scoring in the second when Carver Wenthold singled, sending Landon Steffans and William Timp across the plate. The Warriors added three runs in the fifth.

Offensive bursts

Continued to page 15