May 15, 2025

Thursday, May 15, 2025

Vol. 160, Issue 20 www.decorahleader.com

Decorah, Iowa 52101 email: editor@decorahleader.com

Rob Sand enters race for Iowa governor

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Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird

Defense calls Iowa AG’s case against Sheriff Marx ‘nothing more than thought policing’ Iowa’s State Auditor Rob Sand, a native of Decorah, announced on Monday he intends to seek election as Iowa’s next governor. Sand is one of several candidates who have launched campaigns following Gov. Kim Reynolds’ decision last month not to seek reelection in 2026.

(File photo)

Decorah native aims to focus on ‘better and truer,’ not ‘redder vs. bluer’

I

BY SETH BOYES, NEWS EDITOR

owa’s State Auditor said his time growing up in Decorah was a major inspiration when he first decided to work in public service, and he said he intends to remember the lessons he learned in his youth as he launches his bid for governor of Iowa.

Rob Sand announced his campaign on Monday, saying “for too long, partisan insiders have pushed Iowa in the wrong direction.”

Sand was first elected as state auditor in 2018, and was reelected in 2022 — becoming the only Democrat to maintain a statewide elected position that cycle. He

previously served as an assistant attorney general under former Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller and was the lead prosecutor in a 2015 case exposing what became known as the largest lottery-rigging scheme in American history.

Early announcements from Sand’s campaign listed underfund-

ed schools, the loss of job opportunities to other states and a lack of innovative growth as issues Sand hopes to address if elected governor of Iowa. The Decorah native

Sand

continued on page 9

Attorneys move for dismissal, saying Bird can’t compel retraction

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR Defense attorneys have asked a judge to dismiss a case Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird filed against Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx earlier this year. Bird’s court petition alleges a social media post authored

by Marx in February discouraged local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities.

Defense attorneys with the Parrish Kruidenier Law Firm in Des Moines, which is assisting in Marx’s defense, argue the sheriff’s legal interpretations were accurate, and they claim Bird failed to cite any ongoing violation of state law.

The case so far Bird’s office began looking into allegations against Marx after Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds submitted a complaint regarding a statement the sheriff had written on Feb. 4 in response to public

concerns over immigration enforcement actions — the sheriff’s statement was posted to his office’s social media account and submitted to area news outlets for publication. The sheriff said in his statement that he views the use of non-judicially vetted detainers by agencies like the FBI or Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a violation of citizens’ rights under the Fourth and Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

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

Marx’s statement also expressed his office’s willingness to assist in verifying the legitimacy of any paperwork federal agents may have. However, Marx said, if a federal agent’s

Sheriff Marx

continued on page 12

The ‘weight’ A HUMAN TOUCH is almost Visit us WinnMed eyeing purchase of modern surgical robot online - www.decorahnewspapers.com over for DHS

BY SETH BOYES years,” Slessor said. “This strategy will allow us to avoid high upfront NEWS EDITOR workout facility costs and bake it into our annual board-approved budget for capital Officials with WinnMed in Decorah improvements.” hope to see a da Vinci robotic surgery renovation Representatives of Intuitive — the system in action later this month, beBY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER

Months of networking, planning and fundraising will finally come to fruition later this month at Decorah High School, as the school’s long-awaited weight room renovation gets underway.

According to Adam Riley, Decorah High School associate principal and activities director for DHS, the school’s workout facility has long needed a complete overhaul to repaint damaged walls, repair worn flooring and upgrade tired and broken workout equipment.

Much of the current equipment was purchased by the school in 2006, Riley

Weight room

continued on page 2

fore a potential proposal to purchase such a unit is brought to the hospital’s board of trustees.

WinnMed’s Chief Administrative Officer Steve Slessor made mention in March of possible plans to purchase a da Vinci system, saying one of the rooms in the hospital’s soonto-be expanded surgical wing was designed to accommodate the sizable surgical tool. Slessor said last week the purchase would come at a cost of between $2.05 million and $2.65 million, depending on the specific model selected.

“The da Vinci robot is a significant investment into our surgery department and, to pay for this piece technology, WinnMed will lease the equipment and pay for it over seven

company which produces the da Vinci systems — were invited to present information on the da Vinci system during last week’s hospital board meeting in order to bring the board up to speed before the trustees take any formal action on a funding or purchase request.

Ryan Omvig, a regional sales representative with Intuitive, said the da Vinci surgical system is the only mode of surgery which has seen growth within the field since 2012 — he said it surpassed typical open surgery in 2020 and laparoscopic surgery Surgeon console: Current da Vinci systems feature a three-dimensional at some point between 2023 and 2024 viewer for surgeons to work at a magnification of up to 10 times, allowing surgeons to perform small-scales tasks — such as incisions, dissections Surgical robot or sutures — with precision. (Image courtesy of Intuitive Surgical Operacontinued on page 12 tions, Inc. Copyright 2025)

“Great rates got us the car.”

“Great service keeps us coming back.”

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2 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221 A digital rendering shows what Decorah High School’s weight room is expected to look like after improvements are completed. Renovation work on the weight room is expected to begin later this month. (Rendering submitted)

Weight room

Michael Tangen, physical education teacher at Decorah High School, holds a weight used in Decorah High School’s weight room. Most of the school’s equipment was purchased in 2006 and, while some items were updated in 2014, new racks, benches, bars, weights and other equipment is expected to be replaced as part of a $250,000 renovation project slated to begin later this month. (Photo by Denise Lana)

continued from front

explained. While some pieces were updated in 2014, nearly two decades of cumulative use by thousands of students has taken its toll. School officials said a recent influx of students has been using the weight room as part of an optional strengthening and conditioning program the school is offering in lieu of a traditional physical education class, and the increase in activities has accelerated normal wear and tear.

“We have around 560 students, and our enrollment for the strengthening class is upwards of 250 kids,” Riley said.

“The equipment has lasted us a long time, but that’s a lot of kids using it for almost two decades.”

Planned upgrades include the installation of 15 multipurpose racks — an increase from the current 12 — to accommodate the rise in student participation.

According to Riley, renovations will begin at the end of May, as representatives of Des Moines equipment company Dynamic Fitness and Strength arrive at DHS and begin removing old equipment and clearing out the space. Over the next several weeks, the chipped and scratched walls of the weight room will be stripped, painted and refinished with new graphics, and the battered rubber flooring will be torn out to make way for a new floor design to be installed.

All new equipment — racks, benches, bars, weights, dumbbells and support equipment — will be installed as part of the improvement project, with some currently functioning pieces like treadmills being transferred to the new space where they will remain in use.

Plans for the $250,000 renovation came about in late 2024 when DHS Athletic Booster Club Board Member Josh Giddings and his wife recognized the club was replacing equipment fairly regularly, which he said subsequently stymied the school’s ability to acquire specialized workout equipment.

Additionally, Giddings estimated upgrading the weight (563) 379-3951|

room would directly affect 87 percent of the high school’s student body, with many involved in a sport while also participating in the school’s strength and conditioning program.

“This project made the most sense for several reasons,” said Giddings. “The weight room touches a large portion of our high school students and many middle school students. Also, I am a firm believer that physical health leads to better mental health. Keeping our kids active and involved is important to their self-confidence. The number of kids who will use this room, not just this year, but in the coming years, will be huge.”

Giddings said he spent most of the 2024-25 school year securing anchor donors and sponsorships from area businesses, such as Wicks Construction, Brynsaas Sales and Service, Mark and Ginny Olson Explosives, Toppling Goliath, Decorah Bank and Trust and The Depot.

“Whenever our booster club and community get involved in a project, that is when we see the best channeling of funds that are going to impact the most kids and the most programs,” said Riley. “All of our programs use our weight training facility, so it’s the best bang for the buck while accommodating our kids’

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needs. Everybody involved in our strengthening and sports programs touches the equipment. It’s a big deal to be able to retrofit the space so it accommodates and impacts most all of what our kids’ needs are.”

Riley said the students are looking forward for the completion of the new weight room.

“My son is a sophomore, and he is ready to do cartwheels,” Riley said. “The kids — I know they are excited. It’s a space used by almost everyone.”

Giddings said he hopes, through this project, the students will understand what servant leadership looks like and that much can be accomplished when people come together and work as a team.

“This project wouldn’t be possible without the generous donors and work from everyone involved,” said Giddings. “As a school and community, I want everyone to be proud to be a Viking. If this room gives motivation and self-confidence to just one person and helps them better their own personal life, then it was worth every minute that was put into it.”

Public enjoys afternoon tunes during Concert in the Park

The Luther College Symphonic Band and Decorah Public Library partnered during Concert in the Park, a musical event held Saturday afternoon in Phelps Park. Attendees were encouraged to bring a picnic meal and enjoy performances, featuring tunes from popular movie soundtracks.

The library’s outreach booth was set up on site, encouraging the public to sign up for library cards, and the day’s event also included what organizers called an instrument petting zoo, where attendees were able to try their hand at a number of instruments.

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or buy tickets at the DHS box office from 4-7PM the week of the show Sponsors: Copyland; Decorah Bank & Trust; Gallery of Tops; IROC Web Design Services; Bill Musser, Otter Dreaming, Cleo, Paige & Aurora; JoAn & Steven Nelson; Carl Peterson; Pizza Ranch; Martin & Marco Refsal; Sabin Family Table Restaurant; Rick & Sheryl Scheffert; and Singing Hammers Construction

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Join us on May 16 for free admission all day, plus a Children’s Parade, Decorah’s Nordic Dancers, live music with fiddler Vidar Skrede, a book signing with Amy Saw, free ice cream donated by Culvers in Decorah, and more!

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Charlie and Ellie, children of Ryan and Jenn Geris from Minnesota, enjoyed a picnic lunch with family while attending the Luther College Symphonic Band concert Saturday. The family came to support Will Grimm, who plays French Horn with the band. (Photos by Roz Weis)

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We do not work for the Veterans Administration or the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs and have no direct influence on the granting of VA Benefits.

However, we work with the Federal VA and Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs to inform veterans of various benefits which they are eligible. We are here to advocate for our veterans and their families.

If you haven’t inquired about your benefits, contact your local County Veterans Affairs office. For Winneshiek County Veterans and dependents contact our office.

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

3

Besch aims to help eradicate human trafficking through public awareness

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Algona salon owner Stacy Besch felt called to help combat human trafficking in Iowa in February of 2023, and since then, she’s said she has spoken on the issue in front of 15,000 people in 147 communities — including a presentation she gave in front of approximatley 100 people Saturday morning at the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds in Decorah.

“I thought human trafficking was about kidnapping,” Besch said in her introduction. “I thought it was about the white creepy van. I thought it was about abduction and the drug houses. That was my perception. We’ve watched way too many movies, because that’s where our thoughts and opinions come from.”

By the summer of 2023, Besch said she realized her audiences weren’t grasping the severity of human trafficking, and she bought an educational license for the film “Gridshock” — a documentary film by Davenport native Vanessa McNeal which explores the reality of sex trafficking in Iowa, with a focus on the demand side of the industry. The film includes true stories from three survivors of Iowa sex trafficking as well as information on the crime and industry from Iowa experts.

Besch claimed she spoke with one of the survivors interviewed in Gridshock — the woman was identified as “Heather,” and Besch claimed the woman told her the number-one town in which she was sold was Okoboji in northwest Iowa.

“That made sense to me because, think about it, you have very wealthy people from Omaha and the Twin Cities coming to Okoboji,” Besch said. “They know exactly who to call to get a girl like Heather there in these multi-million-dollar homes, and they have enough money to afford it. And, then I heard Heather say ‘up to 50 men a night.’ I can’t even fathom. Nor do I want to.”

Besch said human trafficking has become the largest business in the world, and the United

Human trafficking volunteer Stacy Besch spoke to a group of approximately 100 area residents Saturday morning at the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds about Iowa’s sex trafficking industry. (Photo by Zach Jensen) States is among the industry’s most prominent locations.

“That means we have so much demand here,” she said.

“You can only sell drugs one time, but a human being you can sell over and over and over again — it’s hard to believe that there’s that much evil out there, but there is, because this is all wrapped around money.”

Besch said she, filmmakers like McNeal and other volunteers have put what she called huge targets on their own backs by sharing information about sex trafficking.

“I’ve had three death threats in the last two years. They want to stop people like me, because we are trying to bring awareness, but to them, I’m trying to stop their paycheck. That’s how they look at us.”

Besch aims to give her presentations in all 940 Iowa towns across the state of Iowa in hopes of educating as many people as possible.

“Maybe not all will come to the presentation, but the ones that do will help spread the message,” she said. “If all 15,000 people said ‘I’m going to do my part,’ we are going to eradicate this in our state, and that’s what

we need to do. That’s our mission and our goal.”

Besch went on to claim the reason sex trafficking is so prevalent in Iowa may be due to the state’s previous laws. She said those convicted of a crime related to sex trafficking in the past might have served up to two years in prison for a Class D felony. However, she credited State Rep. Mark Thompson, R-Clarion, with work on more recent legislation to crack down on sex trafficking. She said, under current Iowa law, suspects who are found to have benefitted from trafficking face more severe punishment.

“If they’re caught with someone over the age of 18, it will become a Class B felony — same as attempted murder, manslaughter, etc.,” Besch said.

“If they’re caught with someone under the age of 18, it would become a Class A felony — same as murder. Life in prison. Lock them up, because that’s where they deserve to be. That went through our House and Senate in the spring of 2023, and it passed 100 percent unanimously. And, on May 16 of 2023, our governor signed that into law.

Do you know it took them til

Decorah Schools approves boost in teacher pay, support staff wages

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER Decorah teachers and support staff will see higher pay in the 2025-26 academic year.

Members of the Decorah School Board returned to the bargaining table during a special session Monday night and endorsed a 4.3 percent increase which was agreed upon with members of the Decorah Educational Association’s negotiating team.

Base salaries are to increase by 4.36 percent for teachers, 5.61 percent for administrative support staff and 4.08 percent for the administration.

Decorah Community School District Superintendent Tim Cronin said the increases align with the district’s broader effort to standardize pay and meet targeted compensation goals. Cronin went on to say the district approved a series of compensation increases across various employee groups, with specific adjustments based on role and employment status.

School officials said one of the board’s main goals was to ensure all starting wages meet or exceed a rate of $16.10 per hour and district officials adjusted percentage increases accordingly for positions which previously had lower starting pay, such as associates and cooks. Alongside overall compensation adjustments, the district applied specific base pay increases for both hourly and salaried staff. Among hourly employees, custodians will receive an 80-cent increase to

their base hourly rate, administrative assistants will receive an increase of $1 per hour, associates are to receive a $1.80 per hour increase, and cooks will receive a $1.90 per hour increase. Bus drivers received an additional $3.40 per day.

School board member Aaron Zander served as one of the school board representatives on the negotiations team, and he said the district is proud of the commitment its teachers and staff members have made to the school, their students and the broader community.

“The 4.36 percent raise for teachers is one of the highest in school history, and the significant hourly raises for our staff also show our recognition of the impact they have and the need to compensate them at a higher level,” Zander said. “The daily impact our employees have on students is laudable and incredible. Education has lifelong impacts, and we are committed to supporting our public school system, which continues to be among the strongest in Iowa.

We can’t thank them enough for what they do.”

Decorah School Board President Cindy Goodner echoed Zander, saying school employees are a key component in maintaining Decorah’s standards for public education.

“At a time when public education in Iowa is facing significant financial pressure, our board remains committed to valuing and supporting the educators and staff who make Decorah Community Schools strong,” Goodner said. “Ap-

proving these contracts and salaries reflects our responsibility to maintain high-quality programs, services and learning opportunities for students — while doing our best to navigate a challenging funding landscape with care and integrity.”

The school board voted 4-0 in favor of the key objectives in the contracts — board member Brad Darling was absent from Monday’s meeting.

The board met with representatives of the Decorah Education Association several weeks ago in the first round of contract negotiations.

The DEA had requested a 4 percent increase in educational lanes — or educational levels or degrees — as well as a 1 percent increase in what officials call steps — or years of teaching experience. The district’s newly approved salary schedule added $150 to the base pay for teachers and added a new first-level step to the model — steps 16 through 30 are to receive a salary increase of approximately 2 percent, and a 3 percent increase is expected for those in educational lanes MA through MA+24. In addition.

The DEA representatives had also requested what was dubbed a Champions Day, during which school employees would be allowed to attend a state-level competition in which their dependent is participating, if that dependent attends Decorah schools. Monday’s agreement indicated that request was approved, with a limit of one such day per year for a given dependent.

just two months ago to get our first Class A felony case?”

Iowa’s first Class A felony human trafficking case involved the conviction of 35-year-old Jarod Earl Anderson of Hiawatha, who was convicted in February of sexually abusing and forcing a Dubuque teen to have sex with other men in exchange for money. Anderson has yet to be sentenced. Besch also highlighted a case against Carl Markley who, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa, was a nurse practitioner in Ames and was sentenced in March to life in federal prison for 15 counts of sex trafficking.

“I am hoping that we expose the ‘rats’ and the demand,” Besch said, referring to the traffickers. “People will also be more likely to spot human trafficking situations more clearly after coming to a presentation.

Also, we will have more empathy and help for those that are being lured in and trafficked by being more educated. People don’t think this happens in rural communities, but it does.”

Local law enforcement agrees education is key Iowa’s human trafficking problem isn’t news to Decorah Police Chief Tricia Thein, who sits on the board of the Network Against Human Trafficking for the State of Iowa.

“Trafficking is a real problem,” Thein said. “It is not a new problem, but it is a real problem. Human trafficking has existed since the beginning of time. But, only 25 years ago, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act equipped law enforcement with the tools and some resources to help combat human trafficking. Enforcement against this crime is not only statutory, but also in mindset.

What was viewed as only ‘prostitution’ now can be looked at through a new lens. Though there are still those voluntarily engaged in the sex trade by choice …, there is a much more sinister side to the sex market, and that is the human trafficking and exploitation of human

beings — people being bought and sold as a commodity over and over again for the financial benefit of another. It is a real problem in Iowa, because there is a belief that it cannot or is not happening here.”

Thein said education about human trafficking is key, adding the crime is very underreported due to fear, force, fraud, coercion and shame. The police chief, who attended Saturday’s program, said Besch’s presentation should be shared “in every community venue” — including schools — in order to educate community members on what to look for, while also emphasizing to children that they can tell the police, their parents or teachers if they are being abused or trafficked.

“Often times, young people don’t think what is happening to them is a crime, or (they) are embarrassed about making a bad decision that led to trafficking — nude photos, sneaking out, drinking or using drugs,” Thein said. “It is critical to let our kids know that we can fix bad decisions and mistakes, and that no one has the right to exploit them. The more we can normalize the conversation about human trafficking, the more likely we can educate and eliminate young people from falling victim to the tactics used by traffickers, and the harder it will be for consumers of trafficking to hide amongst us.

To that end, Thein believes it’s important for Decorah parents to start talking about trafficking with their children.

“If your child has a cell phone, it is imperative that you are talking to them,” she said.

“Nude photos are a huge segue into many crimes that can affect our kids — from sextortion to trafficking. We know that young people are doing this younger and younger, and that kids as young as 9 have shared nude photos of themselves. These things are happening. If we don’t

Iowa human trafficking statistics The Iowa Department of Public Safety reported receiving 40 tips or leads related to sex trafficking in 2023, and seven tips or leads related to labor trafficking — 31 tips or leads were in regard to instances which involved both sex and labor trafficking. Additionally, the Iowa Victim Service Call Center reported 137 reports of sex trafficking and 12 reports of labor trafficking in 2023, while the Iowa Victim Services program reported it helped 536 human trafficking victims that year. The Iowa Department of Public Safety’s 2023 statistics said an estimated 320 victims of human trafficking exist in Iowa at any given moment. discuss it, they remain secret.

Secrets are what the bad guy counts on — secrets, the inability to feel safe to tell anyone and the blind eye of a community.”

The police chief went on to note young children are often taught how to respond to numerous day-to-day hazards, and she indicated the same approach should be taken to education them on the dangers of human trafficking.

“We teach stop, drop and roll, send them to swimming lessons, to walk with scissors pointing down, etc.,” she said.

“Why would we not arm them with information that could save their life? Or, save the life of one of their friends when they go off to college?”

To speak with a police officer about a non-emergency situation, call 563-382-3667.

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SO MUCH IS HAPPENING. CHECK IT OUT! Since the successful passage of the November bond vote to build a new PreK- school, design and stakeholder engagement has been moving full steam ahead.

Designs are taking shape, building footprint is confirmed.

Classroom locations are finalized, with details being refined.

Staff continue to share feedback as excitement builds!

Thanks to your support, we’ve been working closely with our partners to bring the new PreK–2 school to life—and we have a lot of exciting updates to share!

To explore the latest Bond Project Update, use the camera on your phone to scan the QR code or visit: decorahelementaryupdates.org

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OPINION

4 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Recognizing National Police Week

BY TRICIA THEIN DECORAH POLICE CHIEF

National Police Week 2025 runs from May 11 through May 17. National Police Week was established in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation in Washington D.C. designating May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date fell National Police Week. Since that time, this week has come to represent and honor law enforcement officers who have died or been disabled in the line of duty-truly making the ultimate sacrifice.

At a national level, thousands swarm the law enforcement memorial in Washington, D.C. to pay tribute with a memorial service — which began in 1982 with only 120 survivors and supporters of law enforcement. Families of officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice from across the United States, whose names are added to the wall, attend the ceremonies as well. I personally walked the path at memorial park and felt some of the names of the 24, 412 officers engraved on those walls. Each name represents a family who remembers that sacrifice all 52 weeks of the year. These walls honor the men and women lost in police service from 1834-2024.

One-hundred-fourty-eight officers were lost in 2024, and currently in 2025, we are at 25.

Iowa has contributed to the wall 222 times. At a local

level, we honor the sacrifice in a less noticeable way. We may don a black band across our badges in humble recognition for this week. We may watch some of the activities occurring in Washington throughout the week. Mostly, we will just show up to work to do the job that 222 other Iowans gave their life for. A job built on values, fundamental rights and principals ordained by the United States Constitution, of beliefs and ideals designed to protect those in our charge from anyone intending to do them harm. This is more than a job. This is a belief system.

It is not just something we “do,” but more something we “feel.” Something that 24,421 other people were willing to die for.

Locally, I work with some amazing people in law enforcement. People who stand for what they believe and who are willing to put that belief into action. Thoughts are good, words are good, but action; now action is where it matters. I work with people who will respond when needed and have shown they will risk their personal safety for the sake of others. I work with officers who, without their action, others would have been lost. These are some of the finest law enforcement officers I know.

Decorah, Winneshiek County and the state of Iowa can be proud of the men and women who are their law enforcement officers that stand the line between calm and chaos.

I know I am.

Decorah Leader

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Proposed EATS Act would strip states of ability to set their own standards

President seems to treat immigrants, refugees differently based on their skin color

To the Editor: On Sunday, 49 to 57 white Afrikaners departed South Africa in order to seek asylum in the United States. According to reports, white farmers have had death threats, and the result is that many of the white farmers were being killed. President Trump has granted them status as asylum seekers.

Depending on the color of one’s skin, President Trump appears to treat immigrants/ refugees far differently. Consider the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. The White House has accused Garcia of being a number of the El Salvadorian gang MS-13, which has been labeled a terrorist organization. Mr. Abrego Garcia has emphati-

cally denied any membership with the group. The White House has also reported that Mr. Abrego Garcia will never live in the United States again.

At one time, President Trump acknowledged that he could bring Mr. Abrego Garcia back to the United States, but he will not do it. Mr. Kilmar Abrego Garcia has continually stated he has never been convicted of a crime.

Not only is this a major racial issue, but where is Elon Musk from? Oh, Pretoria, South Africa.

Sincerely, Laurie Worcester Decorah

No, you are not entitled to revenge

When we feel wronged, injured or misunderstood, we are not entitled to revenge. It is normal to want revenge, and we probably need to let it bloom in our minds. However, the consequences of acting out revenge are quite clear. It will lead to another cycle of revenge now or sometime in the future. In game theory, revenge seems like an end but is really the beginning of a new game with the same likely consequences. Revenge does not fix what has been wronged.

It does not rehabilitate prisoners. it will not bring you lasting peace. Useful and peaceful endings require lots of hard working-through of feelings and dif-

ferences. The good news is that the working through is often quicker and easier than preparing and waiting for the returned anger and violence. Most basic religions’ foundations support these ideas but forget them in practice. Look at the conflicts in this country and around the world. How many are based on entitlement to revenge? How many are related to religious differences? Your feelings are your own, but do the hard work for better community. Or argue about these ideas.

Don Fish Decorah

At Humble Hands Harvest, we didn’t get into farming to make a quick buck — we got into it because we believe in this land, this community and the future we can grow together. We’re an organic farm near Decorah, raising vegetables and grass-fed lamb with care for the soil and for the generations to come. We chose this work because it connects us — to the earth, to each other and to a more resilient way of living.

That’s why we’re firmly against the proposed Food Security and Farm Protection Act, a federal bill recently introduced by Sen. Joni Ernst. While it has a new name, the Food Security and Farm Protection Act is identical to the previously-introduced EATS Act. And the new bill would be just as dangerous if it were enacted as the EATS Act. While it claims to protect agriculture, this bill threatens the very foundation of independent, sustainable farming in Iowa. If passed, this bill would strip states of their abili-

ty to set their own standards for food sold within their borders.

Responsible farmers like us know that the ability of states to create agricultural policy is key to promoting public health, our rural communities, humane animal care and the environment.

If Iowa were to lose the ability to set agricultural standards, we risk ceding ground to corporate agriculture, which concentrates power away from rural communities and undermines local control.

We need policies that help farmers put down roots — not ones that pull the rug out from under them. Let’s protect the future of Iowa agriculture by saying no to legislation that puts industrial profit over community wellbeing. Accordingly, we ask that members of Congress reject the Food Security and Farm Protection Act and any legislation like it.

Hannah Breckbill Humble Hands Harvest

You have a dog in the fight for environmental change Do you care about water quality? On May 21, at 8:30 a.m., the state Environmental Protection Commission will meet at the Hotel Winneshiek for their monthly business meeting. These meetings are usually held in Des Moines. The EPC creates the rules by which state agencies, like the DNR, implement the laws your representatives enact. Rules like when, where and how manure can be spread from a CAFO; rules like industrial and agri-business water withdrawal from the same aquifers that create cold wa-

ter trout streams and the wells you drink from. So yes, you do have a dog in this fight. For details, go to iowadnr.gov/about/ boards-commissions/environmental-protection-commission. Show up and speak out for your allotted two minutes about anything environmental that concerns you. Let them know you care.

Steve Veysey President - Protecting Outstanding Iowa Waters Dorchester/Ames

This must never happen again May 8, 1945, was VE day.

WWII victory over Europe.

This was 80 years ago but not so long ago in our history. There is one obvious reason why you should never ever forget this.

History can and does repeat itself.

You are about to be faced with the real Adolf Hitler who was directly or indirectly responsible for the deaths of approximately 3 percent of the world’s population during this war. The death toll was estimated at 70-85 million people, which includes military and civilian casualties.

Hitler began his march as a test of his war machine against Poland in 1939. This incursion led to the massive war crimes that followed. And remember,

over the next six years, this man was responsible for the casualties and deaths including six million Jews.

So where does that leave us today? We have all been told the Germans looked past Hitler’s Third Reick mission. Hitler, however, dismantled Germany in the process with his totalitarian dictatorship.

This episode is about one person, and I repeat one person, who caused unbelievable pain, suffering and death. Our current administration is slowly undoing the very thing we fought and died for. We must be careful not to look the other way as did the Germans.

John Carver Decorah

Echoes of the Past Germany surrenders, but area folks remain solemn

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER As long-awaited news of an Allied Victory in Europe spread throughout the country, the bitter realization that the world was still torn apart by war hit the area in early May of 1945 when a streak of new war casualties from the Decorah area hit the news. Telegrams went to the families of Pfc. Morris Kloster of Ossian, as well as Sgt. Donald Rima and Eugene Sanderson, both of Decorah. The telegrams notified relatives that these young men were killed in action. Despite uncontrolled jubilation when President Harry Truman officially announced the unconditional surrender of

Nazi Germany (his speech was on May 8, 1945), and the anticipation of the war finally coming to an end, most local folks remained solemn. Deep concern for more local boys shad been scattered around the world during this war and remained foremost on the hearts of many Winneshiek County residents.

A special “Victory” edition was published in the local newspaper to commemorate the official announcement that the war was over.

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YEARS AGO: 1945 – The Decorah City Council voted to increase the width of Water Street, the local main business street, by three feet. Workers will set back the

curbsides on each side by 10 inches. At present, the street is 44 feet wide. The extension conforms with wishes of the Iowa State Highway Commission in connection with contemplated state pavement for the street as part of Highway 9.

Due to the success of the county 4-H roller skating party a few months ago, the second such event will be conducted early this month at Haugen’s Hall. …Decorah Park Commission recently purchased two sycamore trees to be planted by Duffy Symonds and his assistants. One of the trees will be

Echoes

continued on page 5

VICTORY IN EUROPE - The front page of the Decorah newspaper back in 1945 celebrated the proclamation of peace in the world. The historic moment marked the end of World War II in Europe.

OBITUARIES

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Joseph Hageman

Ernest Heying

Oct. 31, 1940 - May 11, 2025 Joseph William “Zip” Hageman, 84, of St. Lucas, died Sunday, May 11, 2025, surrounded by family.

Joseph was born on Oct. 31, 1940 to Joseph and Catherine (Schmitt) Hageman in rural Fayette Joseph County. He Hageman received his education at St. Luke’s Catholic School in St. Lucas. At the young age of 16, following the loss of his father, Joseph took on the responsibility of managing the family farm. With resilience and a deep respect for the land, he didn’t just work it – he cared for it. His dedication to dairy management and raising beef earned him recognition and built friendships at the sale barn.

On April 26, 1960, Joseph was united in marriage to Emma Gayle McCabe, at St. Agnes Catholic Church in rural Cresco. Together they raised eight children and built a life rooted in faith, love and laughter. Their bond was an inspiration, often highlighted by their joyful dancing – capturing the “longest-married couple” honor at every one of their grandchildren’s weddings.

Joseph approached life with curiosity and wit. He was known for his warm, endearing laughter and the memorable “Zip wisdom” he readily shared. Joe made time for family fun-whether it was slow pitch softball games, canoeing, hosting barn dances, attending chuck wagon races or sledding.

A lifelong farmer, Joseph enjoyed many aspects of farming

but especially chopping. He balanced his love of farming with a variety of interests, including fishing, stock car racing, rodeos, wrestling and other sporting events. He was a proud supporter of his grandchildren, attending their games and activities when possible. Joseph cherished his role of being a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Catherine Hageman; brother, Florian (Irma) Hageman; four sisters: Lorraine (Carl) Wurzer, Sister Joselda Hageman, Rosemary (Phil) Kruse and Bernice (Ray) Karnik; and two grandchildren: Michael Croell and Paul Hageman.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Emma Gayle Hageman; children: Ricky Hageman of St. Lucas, Randy (Gayle) Hageman of St. Lucas, Roxane (Jim) Franzen of Denver, Renae (William) Croell of New Hampton, Rhonda (Keith) Schaufenbuel of St. Lucas, Robyn (Dave) Vsetecka of Lawler, Ron (Catherine Miller) Hageman of St. Lucas, and Ramona (Jeremy) Stammeyer of Decorah. He is also survived by 23 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 16 at St. Lukes Catholic Church in St. Lucas with Father Nick Radloff celebrating the mass. Friends may greet the family from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, May 15 at St. Lukes Catholic Church and for one hour prior to Mass at the church Friday.

Memorials may be directed to the family or to St. Croix Hospice.

Echoes on the flat at Pulpit Road Park and the other in Twin Springs Park. A tablet in memory of Stella Paine will be erected in Twin Springs Park. She gave the generous gift enabling the commissioners to purchase more trees. The tablet is on hold until materials may be obtained after the war.

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YEARS AGO: 1955 – The steering committee for the Luther College Science Hall funding campaign includes B.B. Anundsen, Clair Kjome, Mrs. Marjhorie Zahnrdt, the Rev. I.M. Gjellstad, Clifford Ellingson, Tjeran Heggen and the Rev. R.A. Ofstedahl. They will work closely with college representatives on the fundraising efforts. …From the national headlines: Sir Winston Churchill has stepped down as Prime Minister of Great Britain. He is age 80. …Decorah High School golfers Joe Weis, John Ahern and Richard Weis, all juniors, shot well at a recent golf meet under Coach Max Hines.

60

YEARS AGO: 1965 – The city’s annual Norwegian May Fest plans are well under way. The festival is sponsored by the Luther College Women’s Club, and will be held Sunday, May 16, 1965. …Local residents are receiving booklets in the mail, aimed at securing cooperation toward the control of Dutch Elm Disease in the city. …Mother’s Day gifts are available at Woolworth’s Department Store: Fancy nylons, 98 cents; cards,10 cents; embossed cotton dusters, $1.99; and rose bushes, 88 cents each.

50

YEARS AGO: 1975 – The Norwegian American Museum complex in town remains closed while its main building is under restoration.

The re-opening of Vesterheim is scheduled to coincide with the first day of Nordic Fest, July 25. …In compliance with a request from Luther College, the Decorah School Board has decided to move the time of commencement to 3:15 p.m. The board heard a request from Luther, stating that 10 college pro-

5

continued from page 4

fessors have seniors graduating from Decorah High School this year. The move will give those parents a chance to attend both Luther and Decorah commencements on May 25, 1975. …Eight DHS students are State of Iowa Scholars for 1975: Rebecca Hanson, David Faldet, Daniel Nelson, Cindy Cary, Ruth Bale, Dawn Williams, Janice Halverson and Paul Simonson. …The annual Bike Rodeo is scheduled this month during Bicycle Safety Week. Bike skills tests, free Pepsi and prize drawings will be held at the rodeo.

Registration fee is 25 cents.

40

YEARS AGO: 1985 – An Easter morning snowstorm complicated the search for Easter eggs in area yards over the weekend. …A membership campaign is under way for the Decorah Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps.

Membership is open to boys ages 7-14. …Teleview Systems joined hundreds of other cable operators across the country in premiering “The Disney Channel” on the broadcast lineup. Local cable subscribers started viewing the new channel earlier this month.

30

YEARS AGO: 1995 – A trial has been scheduled to determine the value of the downtown Fareway store. A jury will render a decision in the matter which came about after condemnation initiated by Fareway Stores Inc. …The new office complex and storage facility at Seed Savers Exchange will be dedicated May 6, 1995. …Decorah Auto Center has 1994 Ford Tempos and Mercury Topaz vehicles. All priced at $9,900. …Saturday night racing starts May 6 at Nordic Speedway. …Roscoe’s (formerly The Pub) has some new weekday happy hour specials – blended margaritas for $1.50; draft beers for 50 cents or pitchers for $3; and screwdrivers or Bloody Mary drinks on Sundays - $1.25. Free popcorn all the time!

Jan. 15, 1936 - April 28, 2025 Ernest Heying, 89, of Calmar, died peacefully on Monday, April 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Jan. 15, 1936 on a small farm near Festina, Ernie was the fifth of 13 children born to Joe Ernest Heying and Rose Heying.

Ernie proudly served in the United States Army from 195559, stationed in El Paso, Texas.

On June 17, 1961, he married the love of his life, Kathleen “Kay” Frey. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three daughters. His family was his greatest joy, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were truly the delight of his life. He especially loved the babies. Ernie spent many hours watching with much pride his grandchildren participating in their various activities such as acting in plays, singing in concerts, showing

cattle and playing sports.

In 1971, Ernie and his brother John founded Heying Manufacturing and Lumberyard, building a successful business and earning a respected place in the community. He was deeply civic-minded, giving his time generously to many causes. He sang in the St. Aloysius choir for over 40 years and served on the local volunteer fire department, the Calmar Commercial Club and the Calmar Lions Club. In his later years, he remained active with the American Legion, proudly supporting fellow veterans.

Ernie was well-known for his cowboy hat, his love of horses and his deep enjoyment of the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, a longtime camper and a skilled woodworker who delighted in creating projects for his family. Ernie extended his love of family to his sisters and brothers, nieces and nephews making whole hog sausage. A tireless advocate for his community, he played a vital role in bringing a swimming pool to

Calmar – ensuring future generations had a safe and fun place to gather.

In quieter moments, Ernie could be found cheering on the Chicago Cubs, enjoying whiskey and water or playing cards with friends and family.

He lived life with a full heart, a generous spirit and a dedication to the people and places he loved.

Ernie is survived by his beloved wife, Kay, and their three daughters: Lisa (Randy) Hanson, Linda Heying (Dean Manternach), and LuAnn (Mark) Wiltgen. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Kaitlin (Jake) Kempel, Jordan Hanson, Thea Manternach, Sophia Manternach (Maxim Mandel), Daron (Shawn) Omar, Michaela (Chase Lienhard) Wiltgen, Grace (Miranda Cason) Manternach, Micah Manternach and granddaughter-in-law, Jodi Sorensen; great-grandchildren: Faith Kempel, Charley Kempel, Eversynn Omar, Jameson Kempel and Weston Omar;

siblings: Doris Bouska, Lorna Bouska, Carl (Carol) Heying, Robert (Tina) Heying, Mary Ann Trewin and Susan Heying; sister-in-law, Patricia Heying; brother-in-law, Fred Miller; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Rose Heying; grandson, Isaac Wiltgen; father and mother-in-law, Ernest and Alice Frey; and siblings and in-laws: Paul Heying, Greg and Helen Heying, Helen and Melvin Hageman, Dennis and Marion Heying, John and Louise Heying, Betty and Jim Breuss, Jim Bouska, Cletus Bouska and Dick Trewin and Patsey Miller.

Ernie’s legacy of service, joy and love for family and community will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, May 5 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Calmar with Pastor Neil Manternach presiding. Burial was in St. Aloysius Cemetery with full military rites.

a short time before beginning his 45-year career as a heavy equipment operator. Many younger operators looked up to him in his years of service to the Local 150 Int’l Union of Operating Engineers, of which he was a lifetime member. He was definitely a legend in his profession.

While living outside of Protivin, Ed enjoyed pheasant opener with his dad, and taking Donna squirrel hunting and fishing to the trout stream or to Lake Meyer. Each year he’d host “The Dubuque Guys” for their annual deer hunting trip that always included lots of beers, stories and laughs.

He loved the water. In their younger years Ed and Karen were able to spend many winters oceanside in Florida and enjoyed trips to Copper Harbor,

Michigan.

In 1999 Ed’s work took him and Karen to Michigan City on the shores of Lake Michigan, an ideal location to settle for a man who loved the water. Drives to the local marinas included the occasional dumpster dive, bringing home many treasures.

He took pride in his lawn and impeccable care of his vehicles. “Fast Eddy”, as he was sometimes called, loved to read history and current events. He could often be found in front of the TV watching FOX News with a Wall Street Journal in hand.

He will be missed by the neighborhood squirrels, birds, turkey and deer that he kept well fed.

Ed leaves behind his wife Karen; daughter, Donna (fiancé John Michener) of Wabasha, Min-

nesota; grandchildren Madilyn and Jack Michener; sister, Bonnie (Jim) Shippy; brother, Dave (Robyn) Zweibahmer; sisters-inlaw, Patricia (Clint) North and Cheryl Murray; brother-in-law, Kevin (Carol) Kovarik; and nieces, nephews and a couple of little pancake eaters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother and fatherin-law, Genevieve and Paul Kovarik; brother, Steve Zweibahmer; and sister-in-law, Sue Zweibahmer.

As per his wishes, Ed will be cremated, and no funeral services will be held.

Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services of La Porte, Indiana is assisting with arrangements.

Online condolences can be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com

with Gold Cross Ambulance led to the expansion of his own personal business, Sweet Computer Services, located in West Union. In 1985, the company focused its strategy to develop and distribute Emergency Medical Services (EMS) software, which led to continued growth and success. Upon the sale of Sweet Computer Services in 2000, Dave and Mary moved operations to Decorah.

Dave was a successful entrepreneur in the computer software industry specializing in Emergency Medical Services across the country. As a pioneer in the industry, his company would become the national leader in EMS software.

Throughout his lifetime, Dave was an active community volunteer with local fire departments and served as an Emergency Medical Technician for the West Union Area Ambulance Service. He supported

rural community hospitals as a board member and volunteered as a Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) consultant, helping community members understand the transition to Medicare. In addition, he enjoyed supporting his kids’ activities in little league baseball, scouting and music.

Dave spent his retirement years on an acreage in rural Decorah, where he and Mary established a tree farm of over 4,000 seedlings. They enjoyed landscaping activities around the acreage, spending time in the woods, cutting firewood and hosting grandchildren at the farm. His hobbies included antique tractors, tractor rides, horseback riding, fishing in Canada, trout fishing, woodturning, Decorah Chorale and time spent with friends. A perfect day for Dave included sipping coffee in the sunroom, woodworking in his shop and savoring a glass

of wine as he sat on the porch watching wildlife.

Dave is survived by his wife, Mary; children: Joe (Blaire), Jim, Amy (Rich) Winter, Steve (Trinna) and Dan (Jean); grandchildren: Dugan, Mara, Jonathon Winter, Patrick (Molly) Winter, Timothy Winter, Lucas, Emma (Justin) Nolan, Katie and Courtney; and great-granddaughter, Emily Winter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Rose, and brother, Bob, of Cedar Rapids.

Please join the Sweet/Winter families for a happy hour to celebrate the life of Dave Sweet on Friday, May 23 from 4-7 p.m. at T-Bock’s event space (upstairs), 206 W. Water Street, Decorah.

A private family service will be held. Please direct condolences to Helms Funeral Home, 306 E. Water St., Decorah and WinnMed Foundation Ambulance Service.

plement as a mechanic. In 1969, Conrad relocated his family to Grand Meadow, Minnesota and with business partners operated Minnesota Implement and Midwest Auction, while also farming on the side. In 1988, he had the opportunity to purchase Featherlite Trailers with family members, and this led to a 20year career in manufacturing.

This company also included Featherlite Luxury Coaches.

In 1999, as President and CEO of Featherlite Inc., Conrad was named Entrepreneur of the Year

in manufacturing by Ernst and Young LLP. Conrad and other family members were also involved in the development of and later ownership of the Iowa Speedway.

Conrad is survived by sons Tracy and Eric (Nicole O’Gara); granddaughter, Andrea Siewert, her husband Justin and their sons Gavin and Trent; grandsons, Derek (Kara Denner) and Neil (Jessica Gartner); granddaughter, Emma; the mother of his children, Patsy Clement; brothers Larry, Bruce,

Dave and Brad; and sister, Carmen Henderson.

Conrad was predeceased by his parents and brother, Stan.

There will be a private family burial on a date to be determined. Conrad will be laid to rest at the Sugar Grove cemetery in rural Newton in a plot overlooking his boyhood home.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a dementia charity of your choosing.

The family is assisted by Helms Funeral Home of Decorah.

Edward Zweibahmer

Sept. 26, 1950 - May 6, 2025

Edward “Ed” Louis Zweibahmer, 74, of Michigan City, Indiana, died suddenly Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at his home.

Ed was born Sept. 26, 1950, in Decorah to Albert and Doris ( Wa r t h a n ) Edward Zweibahmer.

Zweibahmer He grew up in Calmar and graduated from South Winneshiek High School.

In 1969 he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and was later honorably discharged.

On April 24, 1971, Ed married his wife of 54 years, Karen Kovarik in Protivin. They soon welcomed their daughter Donna.

Ed worked for the railroad for

David Sweet

Jan. 16, 1943 - April 8, 2025 David (Dave) Sweet of Decorah, died April 8, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Dave was born Jan. 16, 1943, in New Hampton, and was united in marriage to Mary Gorman in 1963, spending 61 David Sweet years together. They raised five children in West Union before moving to Decorah.

After high school, Dave received certification from Gale Institute in Minneapolis and launched his career in the emerging field of computer programming. In 1979, he developed a computer software system with Gold Cross Ambulance Service of Rochester to submit electronic claims and business statistics for the ambulance service. The partnership

Conrad Clement

June 11, 1944 - May 6, 2025 Conrad Clement, 80, died Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at his home in Decorah.

Conrad was born June 11, 1944, to Tag and Irene Clement and grew up on the family farm in rural Newton, Iowa. He was a 1962 graduate of Newton High School. In 1964, he was united in marriage to Patsy Fisher; they were later divorced.

Ever the entrepreneur, Conrad had his first business at 16, a tire repair shop. After graduation, he worked at Newton Im-

NEWS

6 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Plans for Decorah’s new Supervisors mull language for removal of P&Z members elementary to be scaled Ulrings argue to keep business back to stay within budget zoned agricultural

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER Architects are exploring ways to scale back sections of Decorah’s proposed elementary school building in order to stay within the project’s budget. The building would house Decorah’s pre-K through second grade students and would replace the current John Cline Elementary buidling.

Decorah Community School District’s board of directors learned the building’s current design is nearly $2 million more than the approved $38 million dollar budget, according to Superintendent Tim Cronin.

Officials said an architectural team from Emergent Architecture, led by Nick Hildebrandt, is working closely with the local design team to assess resources and capabilities, and designers are now tasked with scaling back plans, focusing on the most critical components and shifting some of the design priorities.

Among the potential changes cited during Monday’s school board meeting were the scaling back of features on the proposed building’s second floor.

“They (architects) are now looking at ways to get back in line with the budget,” Cronin said.

Cronin said designers held the second of three scheduled development sessions with school staff last week, and the building’s layout continues to be modified as architects incorporate staff requests.

The final scheduled design session will be conducted over two days — May 19 and 20 — and a 3D project model is expected to be shared with the entire staff in the near future, according to Cronin.

The superintendent applauded what he called a team effort between architects and the local development team as they continue to work toward an suitable and design which aligns with the district’s approved budget.

“In general, a lot of the boxes have been checked,” Cronin said.

In other business • Cronin’s report to the board also included an update on the

school’s new LP fueling station for its new propane-fueled buses. Low bids totaled $5,175 for electrical work and $6,000 for the cement of the station’s pad.

• Cronin also told board members there had been some complaints about the condition of the 24-hour parking lot where public recycling bins are currently located in Decorah — the school acquired the property as part of a previous land agreement with the city of Decorah.

City officials have been contacted about the need to facilitate the relocating of the recycling bins as construction along Heively Street is expected to being in the coming months.

• Board members approved the district’s 45-page Career and Academic Plan, which was outlined during the meeting by Decorah High School Principal Brad Hurst, School counselor Pat Trewin, school counselor Brigit Storhoff and Maddie Putnam-Keck, project coordinator with Winneshiek County Development and Tourism. The DCAP is a state required roadmap for implementation of the career and academic planning process. The district’s plan is reviewed regularly and requires board approval before submission to the state.

• The board approved summer office hours for the school district. The office will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Mondays through Thursdays and from 7:30-11:30 a.m. Fridays between June 2 to Aug. 1.

• Project bids for roof replacement work on the high school cafeteria area and Carrie Lee Elementary School were approved at a total cost of $398,789.

• A bid of $8,365 was accepted for point-of-sale nutrition accounting software subscription services through School Café for the district.

• A 2025-2026 service agreement with Keystone Area Education Agency for literacy, math, science, diverse learners, information technology, media and other specific services for the district was approved at a cost of $97,717.08.

Decorah’s next school board meeting is June 9 at 5:30 p.m.

Decorah School Board adjusts current year’s budget to correct previous error Administrators say state aid, property taxes entered correctly

BY ROZ WEIS STAFF WRITER The Decorah Community School Board of Education approved a more than $8.4 million dollar adjustment to the district’s 2024-25 budget following a public hearing Monday night.

There were no written or verbal public comments regarding the matter.

The total increased adjusted expenditures brought the district’s new budget figure for the current academic year from $26,511,984 to $35,008,387.

School officials said the district under-budgeted itself, but the administration stressed no funds are missing.

“There was no lack of funding — state aid and property tax amounts were correct,” Decorah Schools Superintendent Tim Cronin said. “The issue was that expenditures were understated, which made the fund balance appear larger than it actually was — over $12 million.

The amendment will increase expenditures by $8.4 million, reducing the fund balance to

$3.76 million.”

The district’s increased expenditures exceeded the budget in several categories.

Decorah’s total support services were adjusted upward by $5,802,787 — from $5,142,283 to $10,945,070 — a change which was attributed to what school officials called an error in last year’s budget. Costs associated with instruction were adjusted by $951,220 — from $16,738,780 to $17,690,000 — to account for additional salaries. Non-instructional program expenditures were adjusted by $262,357 — from $1,078,983 to $1,341,340 — to reflect increased food costs. And other expenditures were adjusted by $1,480,039 — from $3,551,938 to $5,031,977 — to factor for the price of the middle school roof project and costs associated with providing student devices.

Board members Cindy Goodner, Aaron Zander, Carole Sand and Ron Fadness voted to adopt the amended budget. Board member Brad Darling was absent for the vote.

BY ZACH JENSEN STAFF WRITER Winneshiek County Supervisor Shirley Vermace on Monday voiced her hesitance toward approving proposed changes to part of the county’s zoning ordinance.

Tony Phillips, the county’s planning and zoning administrator, introduced several text changes to Chapter 5 of the county’s zoning ordinance during an April 28 public hearing. The topic was tabled at that time, and the board of supervisors took up the issue again on Monday. Two of the proposed changes relate to zoning variances — exceptions which allow a property owner to deviate from requirements of a zoning ordinance — and another proposed change would allow the board of supervisors to remove zoning commission members from office “for cause upon written charges and after a public hearing.”

Vermace said the term “cause” must be better defined in the county’s reworded ordinance.

Planning and Zoning Administrator Tony Phillips said the county hadn’t removed a member of its planning and zoning commission or board of adjustment from service in the last 15 years he’s worked for the county.

“We’re in a new day,” Vermace rebutted, later saying ambiguity might open the door to what she called politics. “We’re living in a completely new world right now. I just want to be careful of what we’re talking about when we say ‘cause.’”

Commission members are appointed or elected for a specific term of service and, at the end of their term, their assignment is completed unless they are reappointed for another term, Phillips said. He went on to explained the issue of cause would be discussed with the supervisors at the time a commission member’s service comes into question.

Vermace countered, saying a commission member could hypothetically come under undue scrutiny if their fellow commission members or the board of supervisors took issue with the individual personally.

“It will be harder and harder to get people to volunteer for these commissions, if they know they can be arbitrarily removed for any small thing,” Vermace said, after noting the positions are unpaid.

The supervisors voted 4-1 in favor of closing the public hearing, with Vermace dissenting.

Official action on the proposed ordinance changes was tabled until the board’s May 19 meeting.

Debate over Northern Timber zoning continues Discussions over the proper zoning of an area timber operation was also taken up

again Monday.

The Ulring family aims to retain an A1 agriculture zoning designation for their family business, the Northern Timber Company, which is located near the intersection of Iowa Highway 52 and 223rd Avenue in northern Winneshiek County.

One of the county’s proposed ABOVE- Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors Vice-Chairman Mark Vick said, because Northern Timber is licensed and bonded as a log dealer, the family business needs to be zoned A2 under the amended wording. LEFT- Ned Ulring insists his family’s business is more like a grain bin than a grain co-op, but county officials disagree. The point arose as officials discussed potential changes to the county’s zoning language. (Photos by Zach Jensen) changes to its zoning ordinance could require the operation to apply for their land to be rezoned from as an A2 agriculture commercial zone. The family believes the logs on their property should be considered to be in the harvesting stage of agriculture — which they argue is appropriate for an A1 zone.

“The proposed amendment to A2 zoning arbitrarily separates an integral part of timber harvesting from the rest of the activity, which is already an established and allowed A1 use,” Ned Ulring told the supervisors, before citing a portion of the county’s zoning language.

“A forest products concentration yard is an integral part of the production of tree products and therefore should not be split up. The fact that trees are not grown at the concentration yard is irrelevant to the matter, as the county already allows for the storage of agricultural products on farms that the product is not originally harvested on. Taking away a forest product concentration yard from tree farmers is the same as taking grain bins from a grain farmer.”

Several neighbors of the Ulrings’ concentration yard attended Monday’s public hearing and insisted the Ulrings’ business was more commercial than agricultural — some attempted to bolster their position by referring back to a previous meeting, during which Caleb Ulring described the family’s business as the “UPS of northeast Iowa hardwoods.”

“It definitely needs to be zoned A2, because those logs are not local,” said Jason Carolan, one of Northern Timber’s neighbors. “They’re coming in from Wisconsin and all over place. It’s a shipping yard is what it is — a shipping yard for stuff to get shipped out. That is why it needs to be A2.”

Three other neighbors also attended the public hearing and spoke in favor of the Ul-

rings’ business property being rezoned A2, claiming it reportedly seems like a distribution center.

“If you harvest the trees where they are grown and store them there until they ship off, that is an agricultural activity,” said Phillips. “The business that the Ulrings are in is not the growing of logs. The business that the Ulrings are in is the concentration of logs, and they sort them and distribute them from there.”

Assistant County Attorney Jana Evelsizer Olson said, in order to be in business, the Ulrings must be bonded by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources as a timber buyer, which she said is an entity which contracts with a timber grower.

“So, their company, itself, is a timber-buying company, and then they buy from the timber growers,” she said.

Supervisors Board Vice Chairman Mark Vick said, by that definition, the operation seemed to be largely similar to a grain cooperative, which he said would be zoned in an A2 district.

“You’re buying it from somebody else,” Vick said. “You’re bringing it there. You’re sorting them, you’re reloading them, and you’re selling them to somebody else. It’s the same exact thing.”

However, Ned Ulring said a grain co-op doesn’t harvest the grain itself, whereas his family’s operation may be involved in the harvesting of timber.

“For us, the log yard is an integral part of our business, and our business expands to harvesting the timber directly from the land that it is grown on,” he said. “So, what the board is actually looking at is splitting one part of our business from the rest of it.”

The planning and zoning commission met in September of 2024 and voted 6-1 to rec-

ommend adding “forest products concentration yards with processing, not including sawmills” as an acceptable use in the county’s A2 zoning districts, according to meeting minutes.

Evelsizer Olson noted that the one commissioner who dissented in that vote wanted to zone the property M2 Industrial.

Evelsizer Olson told the board of supervisors the Ulring operation’s tax filings may provide some insight into the most proper course of action — she indicated farm operations file taxes under Schedule F, while independent business file taxes under Schedule C. The supervisors may take possible action on the matter during the board’s May 19 meeting.

In other business • The supervisors unanimously approved the appointment of Byron Hook to the position of lieutenant deputy with the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office. Hook is replacing former Lt. Deputy Steve Nesvick, who was recently appointed as chief deputy.

• County Auditor Ben Steines shared amendments for county’s the Fiscal Year 2026 county budget, which will be discussed and possibly acted upon during a public hearing at 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday, May 27 at the courthouse annex.

• After a closed session, the supervisors unanimously approved an informal resolution to acknowledge the county failed to produce requested public records in a timely fashion as required by Iowa law. The county will thus refund the amount paid for the records request to Steve St. Clair. County officials did not specify what records St. Clair requested.

The next meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 19 in the courthouse annex.

The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors recently signed a proclamation designating May as Historic Preservation Month. Pictured (from left to right) are Winneshiek County Supervisors Steve Kelsay, Shirley Vermace, board vice-chairman Mark Vick, board chairman Dan Langreck, supervisor Mark Faldet, Historic Preservation Commission Chair Steve Johnson and commissioners Don Arendt, Kim Glock, Roger Bergan and Greg Vanney. (Photo by Zach Jensen)

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Community briefs Saddle club donates more than $3,600 to Camp Sunnyside

Photo submitted

Turkey Valley seniors recognized for voter registration rate The Turkey Valley Community School District recently recognized the class of 2025 for attaining a voter registration rate of 86 percent among the soon-to-be graduates. Every year, the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office offers recognition

to Iowa high schools which dedicate themselves to registering their senior class members to vote. Schools which achieve a voter registration rate of at least 90 percent among their eligible senior class earn the prestigious Carrie Chapman

Catt Award, named after the renowned Iowan leader of the women’s suffrage movement.

Schools reaching 50-70 percent registration also receive statewide recognition, and Turkey Valley received a banner in recognition of this year’s efforts.

“While we fell just short of our 90 percent goal, we are so proud of our seniors for taking this important step to becoming active and informed citizens,” said Michelle Nystel, Turkey Valley social studies and special education instructor.

Annual Historic Preservation Award goes to five historic Broadway churches

The Decorah Historic Preservation Commission will present its annual award to five historic Broadway Street churches for their on-going building preservation. The public is invited to the award presentation from 4:30-6 p.m. Thursday, May 22 at the Decorah United Church of Christ Congregational Center — 209 W. Broadway St. The preservation commission will provide light refreshments.

“The historic Broadway church buildings are a crucial part of Decorah’s historic fabric, and we are eager to acknowledge the commitment to preservation that these churches have shown,” DHPC member Jenny Werner said.

Commission member Judy van der Linden said this year’s award complements the commission’s 2019 award to St. Benedict Parish for their historic church renovation and their architecturally-compatible addition.

Each of the five Broadway churches selected for the award have undertaken major maintenance and preservation projects in recent years. All five churches expressed their appreciation for the preservation award.

Decorah Lutheran Church, built in 1961, recently rebuilt its sanctuary roof and replaced the copper flashing, repaired the storm windows protecting

Decorah Lutheran Church, one of the five Broadway churches to receive the annual Historic Preservation award, was built in 1961.The church recently rebuilt its sanctuary roof and replaced the copper flashing, repaired the storm windows protecting the 1889 and 1961 stained glass windows, and refurbished the 1961 bell tower which holds the congregation’s 1889 bell and displays antique European glass panels. (Photo submitted) the 1889 and 1961 stained glass windows, and refurbished the 1961 bell tower which holds the congregation’s 1889 bell and displays antique European glass panels.

The Decorah UCC Church, built in 1896, recently replaced its roof and did some exterior work, including brick repoint-

ing.

The First United Methodist Church, built in 1874, recently completed extensive exterior repairs, including complete brick repointing and replacing limestone supports under the windows and on the stepped buttresses.

Grace Episcopal Church,

completed in 1876, has undergone interior and exterior repairs, including painting, a new roof and a bell inspection as well as restoring stained glass windows and installing new plexiglass window protectors.

They are currently restoring their historic front door.

First Lutheran Church, built in 1876, recently installed an enclosed steel structure to stabilize the roof and exterior walls.

The church is also planning a second construction phase which will likely include a new entrance, a five-stop elevator and renovation of their 1953 education and office wing. They have also announced a smaller campaign to refurbish their historic steeple bell.

“When we discovered our roof problems, we experienced an outpouring of support from both congregation members and Decorah residents for preserving our historic building and steeple,” said Pastor Mike Wilker of First Lutheran. “The renovation reflects our congregation’s inspiring devotion to God and warm service toward our neighbors.”

A list of Decorah Historic Preservation Commission’s previous Historic Preservation Awards is available online at decorahia.org/ commission-and-boards/historic-preservation/awards.

The Winneshiek County Saddle Club participated in the statewide Pony Express Ride last month, raising more than $3,600 for Camp Sunnyside, a camp near Des Moines for children and adults with disabilities. The club raised funds through donations, a benefit dance, selling raffle tickets and conducting a road block in Calmar on Good Friday.

This year’s raffle prize, a 2024 Massimo four-wheeler, was won by Jim Fredrickson of Atlantic. The Winneshiek Saddle Club has been participating in the annual Pony Express Ride since 1970 and has sent a total of more than $153,400 to the camp during the last 55 years.

The club expressed its appreciation for those who have helped support the camp.

LifeServe to host trio of blood drives next month

LifeServe Blood Center will be holding several blood drives next month. The first will take place from 1-5 p.m. Tuesday, June 3 in the fellowship hall of Calmar Lutheran Church — 200 North East St. in Calmar. Another will be held from 12:30-5:30 p.m. Monday, June 9 at the Fort Atkinson Community Center — 303 Third St. Northwest in Fort Atkinson.

The third will take place from 12:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26 in the fellowship hall of Stone Ridge Community Church — 1111Montgomery St. For more information about blood donation or to schedule an appointment to donate blood, call 800-287-4903 or visit lifeservebloodcenter.org.

Citizens Climate Lobby changes location of Thursday potluck

The northeast Iowa chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby has changed the location of its May 15 potluck. The event will now take place at 5:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of First Lutheran Church in Decorah

Greig concert to honor Norwegian immigration

and provide context for the pieces on the program. The concert is open to the public and free of charge.

County conservation invites public to go on Driftless Safari

Driftless Safari is a free, county-wide scavenger hunt which helps people of all ages get outside and explore the natural treasures of Winneshiek County. The public may join the 2025 Driftless Safari by picking up a free guidebook at any public library in Winneshiek County. Each guidebook has information on the featured Driftless Safari sites, which participants can visit in any order and at any time between Earth Day and Halloween. Adventurers may explore the featured sites to find hidden rubbing posts and make crayon rubbings in their guidebooks. Winneshiek County Conservation hosts the Driftless Safari each summer in collaboration with Winneshiek County’s public libraries. Participants are asked to register for Driftless Safari when picking up a guidebook in order to help track the program’s success and prepare enough materials for future years. Questions may be directed to Winneshiek County Conservation at 563-534-7145, and registration may be completed online at www.winneshiekwild.com/driftless-safari.

32nd annual VMH Foundation golf tournament to be held next month

The Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation’s annual three person best-shot golf tournament is scheduled for Monday, June 16 at the Waukon Golf and Country Club. Teams of three will begin the day with a shotgun start at 9:30 a.m. and play 18 holes of golf. Breakfast rolls, lunch, dinner and prizes will be provided for those who make a donation of $75.

All those interested in joining the event are asked to pre-register their team by calling the Waukon Golf and Country Club at 568-9939. For more information about the golf tournament, call Veterans Memorial Hospital at 563-568-3411.

Applications open for position on county VA commission

NMP announces cast for Emplify Health by Decorah’s Symra Norwegian Literary Society will present Winneshiek County is acconcert of Edvard Greig’s cepting applications for the apGundersen urges caution ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ asongs and instrumental works pointment of an individual to New Minowa Players recent- as Sarah Brandt, Mikayla Hiner ly announced the cast of its upand Gwen Thompson as Generat 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 16 the Winneshiek County Comamid rise in pertussis cases coming production of “The Pi- al Stanley’s effervescent wards at First Lutheran Church. The

Emplify Health by Gundersen is raising awareness about pertussis — or whooping cough — which providers there continue to see in the community.

Officials at Emplify Health said staff is particularly focused on educating the community about pertussis, which Emplify described as a highly contagious airway infection. The illness primarily affects children but can pose serious risks to individuals of all ages, especially those with underlying health conditions.

Megan Meller, infection prevention specialist at Emplify Health by Gundersen, emphasized vigilance when it comes to whooping cough.

“Pertussis is not just a simple childhood illness; it can be dangerous and even life-threatening for vulnerable populations,” Meller said. “We urge our community to take precautions around sick individuals, especially if they or their loved ones are at higher risk of complications. Early recognition and treatment are crucial in managing this infection.”

Pertussis spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets, according to Empli-

fy. Early symptoms resemble the common cold, and health officials said stressed the need for the community to be aware of symptoms and steps to prevent its spread. Treatment is available for those exposed to prevent the infection from developing. While the disease is considered rare, with fewer than 200,000 cases reported annually in the United States, it often requires medical attention and can last several months if left untreated. Emplify encouraged the public to contact a healthcare provider promptly if symptoms of pertussis develop.

To help the community navigate this health concern, Emplify Health recommends the public understand the symptoms of pertussis, which include severe coughing fits, difficulty breathing and a distinctive whooping sound when inhaling. Officials at Emplify also recommend vaccination to ensure — the DTaP vaccine is recommended for children, while the Tdap booster is advised for adolescents and adults. The public should also practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently. If ill, individuals should each cough and stay home.

rates of Penzance,” the beloved comic opera by W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan. The witty, fast-paced classic will set sail June 26-29.

“The Pirates of Penzance” tells the story of Frederic — played

by Jesse Reese — a young man who, through a comical twist of fate, has been apprenticed to a band of well-meaning but bumbling pirates, led by the formidable Pirate King — played by Matt Cody. Upon reaching his 21st birthday, Frederic resolves to leave piracy behind and dedicate himself to wiping them out, only to discover a technicality that throws his plans into chaos. Accompanied by his well-meaning former nursemaid Ruth — played by Karen Esterl — Frederic makes his way into the world. Along the way, he falls in love with the endearing Mabel — played by Emily Schmidt — daughter of the famously verbose Major-General Stanley — played

by Jonathon Struve — while navigating a madcap world of mistaken identities, lively choruses and rapid-fire patter.

Included in the principal cast are Alex Rosenow as Samuel, the Pirate King’s loyal lieutenant; Dan Mrakovich as the Sergeant of Police, leading his comically timid troupe; as well

Kate, Edith and Isabel.

The merry band of Pirates includes Cameron Berges, Paul Fadness, Esteban Fernandez, Lorenzo Fernandez, Violet Hatfield, Caleb Johnson, JJ Johnson, Kelly Johnson, Eva Kriemelmeyer, Rose Martinsen-Burrell, Doug Nalean-Carlson, Rick Scheffert and Colin Thompson. General Stanley’s wards include Eva Fassbinder-Brummel, Lilly Hemesath, Kaya Johnson, Karin Martin-Hiner, Melody Reese and Lieba Louisa Schwalbe.

The police troupe includes Cameron Berges, Paul Fadness, Caleb Johnson, JJ Johnson, Kelly Johnson, Doug Nalean-Carlson, Rick Scheffert and Colin Thompson.

“The Pirates of Penzance” is directed by Sheryl Scheffert, with musical direction by Mike Ellingsen and costume design

by Tanya O’Connor.

Performances will be held next month at the Decorah High School Auditorium — 100 Claiborne Dr. Show times are 7 p.m.

June 26-28 and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 29.

Tickets are available from 4-7 p.m. the week of the show at the Decorah High School Box Office as well as online at newminowaplayers.org/tickets.

concert will celebrate the 200th anniversary of large-scale Norwegian immigration to the United States. Greig is Norway’s most famous composer and was a champion of musical nationalism. Musicians at the upcoming concert will include pianists Jessica Paul and Nicholas Shaneyfelt, organist Kayla Van Hal and vocalists Edwin Andereck, David Judisch and Emily Secor. Additionally, Luther College associate professor of music emeritus and music historian James Griesheimer will present an illustrative biographical narrative on Grieg

mission of Veterans Affairs Board. An applicant must be a veteran as defined in Iowa Code Section 35.1. Board member applications are available at winneshiekcounty.org, in the Winneshiek County Veterans Affairs Office and in the Winneshiek County Auditor’s Office. All applications and copies of the necessary DD214 forms must be returned to the Winneshiek County Veterans Affairs Office or the auditors office by May 29. The courthouse offices are located at 201 West Main St. in Decorah.

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Heivly Street reconstruction to begin, detours expected

The city of Decorah released a statement late last week, notifying residents work on the Heivly Street Improvement project was expected to begin May 14, weather permitting.

Work to construct water mains and storm sewer along Claiborne Drive and Heivly Street in the vicinity of City

Hall will last for several weeks.

Temporary closure of intersections at Heivly Street, River Street, Claiborne Drive and Goose Island Drive will occur intermittently, beginning on or around May 19. City officials said the timing of the street closures is undetermined and will depend on material deliv-

eries and weather conditions, but residents may expect local detours and delays when traveling through these areas.

Utility and street work is expected to shift to the west two blocks of Heivly Street — between Julian and Mill streets — during early June. The west end of Heivly Street is to be

closed through July.

City officials said construction updates will continue to be released throughout the course of the project.

Questions may be directed to the city engineer at 563-2775155.

Aase Haugen staff recently gathered for a memorial photo at the Ohio Street location in Decorah. Their new nursing and assisted living facility on Highland Drive will be open in a few months and the current location will close. Pictured (front row, left to right) Patty Casterton, Nyeli DeLaGarza, Nancy Gutierrez, Abbeke Jensen, Stacey Collins, Morgan Eggert, Brenda Pecinovsky, Brooklyn Larson, Mary Capouch, Kate Klimesh, Karen Berg, Hannah Scheevel, Alicia Fink, Erica Dahl, Janita Bushman, Barbara Johnson, Sydney Obaseki, Kayla Schwade, Paul Sonnenberg, Quinn Snyder, (back row, left to right) Kevin Lafferty, Andel Gavin, Sissy Ryan, Kristen Albertson, Raya Herold, Sam Boeke, Meredith Lensing, Hannah Meyer, Hunter Drenth, Jon Wedl, Berly Derival, Justin Smith, Colleen Kray, Matt Bushman, Joel Farley, Jenifer Mtisi, Ross Meier and Rex Nelson. (Photo submitted)

Aase Haugen celebrates National Skilled Care Nursing Week before moving to new location

Staff at Aase Haugen are celebrating National Skilled Care Nursing Week for a final time at their Ohio Street location.

Aase Haugen’s new nursing and assisted living facility on Highland Drive will be open in a few months, and this week’s celebration will serve as a memorial while the Aase Haugen staff and residents bid goodbye to the old location.

“Our leadership has grown and changed with the addition of very skilled and experienced staff who provide compassion-

ate care and connection to our elderly residents every day,” said Aase Haugen Executive Director Sam Boeke. “It takes a certain type of person to work in this industry, and this week is more than just a celebration.

It is a tribute to the character of our hardworking team.”

Aase Haugen’s administration called the facility’s staff quiet heroes.

“You may meet a certified nursing assistant who remembers every resident’s favorite music, nurses who catch subtle

changes in mood or appetite before they become a crisis, activity aides who can light up a room and kitchen staff who serve more than warm meal – they serve comfort and fellowship,” said Rex Nelson, Aase Haugen administrator.

This year, Aase Haugen has organized special activities, such as contests and social events for staff, residents and the community to help celebrate the week.

“Our staff are the heartbeat of this home. They don’t just

provide care – they bring dignity, joy and love to our residents. That’s worth celebrating, not just this week, but all year long,” Nelson said. “We invite the public to send messages to our team, whether through mail, social media or a personal greeting to let them know how much our community appreciates the services we provide.”

Aase Haugen earned certification as a Great Place To Work 2025, is a top employer in Winneshiek County and has been serving the community since 1915.

Sons of Norway preparing for Syttende Mai celebration Johnson to speak on 200th anniversary of organized Norwegian migration The public is invited to attend the Sons of Norway Valdres Lodge meeting on Tuesday, May 20 in the fellowship hall of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church for a Syttende Mai celebration. The evening’s events will begin at 5:45 p.m. with a catered Norwegian dinner. The public is invited to share in this dinner. Reservations are requested before Tuesday, May 13.

The cost for the dinner is $15 and payment may be brought to the event. To make reservations, contact Carol Maki by phone at 563-277-1197 or by email camaki44@gmail.com.

Part of the evening’s festivities will include a presentation

by Chris Johnson, president and CEO of Vesterheim, The National Norwegian Amer-

ican Museum and Folk Art School. The title of his presentation is “Commemorating 200 Years of Norwegians in America.”

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the first organized immigration of Norwegians to the United States with the voyage of the Sloopers in 1825. Johnson’s presentation will discuss how other organizations in the United States, Canada and Norway are commemorating the milestone, and more specifically what Vesterheim is doing to observe the anniversary.

Johnson’s own Norwegian ancestors haled from the inner portions of the Sognefjord near Sogndal and Jostedal, immigrating to the U.S. in the 1850s and 1860s.

Winneshiek Energy District to host summer book club The Winneshiek Energy District and First Lutheran Church invite the public to read and discuss the book “What if We Get It Right? Visions of a climate future” by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson. The group’s summer book club discussions will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 5 and Thursday, June 26 in the fireside lounge at First Lutheran Church, located at 604 W. Broadway St. in Decorah — participants can expect to discuss approximately half the book during each session. The events are open to the public.

Those interested in joining for one or both discussions are encouraged to sign up online at energydistrict.org/events.

“Johnson’s book reminds us that responding to climate

change is a community effort that takes many leaders with different areas of expertise. We all have something to offer,” said Winneshiek Energy District Director Kristin Eggen.

“Discussing these ideas with community members will be especially powerful, because at the end of the day all change starts at a local level.”

The book is available through local retailer Dragonfly Books at a 10 percent discount and other retailers. Johnson’s work is also available as an audio book through Libro.fm.The Winneshiek Energy District has a limited number of copies participants may borrow. The public may email kristin@energydistrict.org to inquire about borrowing a copy.

Curtis Johnson Memorial Scholarship awarded ABOVE- Noetic Challenge Team Winner and National Honor Roll title holders Peter Robinson and Kyle Joyce. LEFT- (front row, left to right) Ada Lyon, Peter Robinson, Koe Schwickerath, (middle row, left to right) Lillian Rude, Brekin Halweg, Callen Ruckert, Louis Weber, (back row, left to right) Marta Vogel, Silas Row-Heyveld, Kyle Joyce and Brogan Barnes.

Not pictured are Brantley Leibold and Harper Scott.

(Photos submitted)

Decorah fourth grade students excel at Noetic Learning Math Contest

A group of 13 fourth grade students from Decorah’s Carrie Lee Elementary Extended Learning Program, led by Mrs. Kari O’Hara, competed on April 7 in the Noetic Learning Math Contest. Peter Robinson and Kyle Joyce were the team winners and also won the Na-

health

tional Honor Roll title. Brekin Halweg, Brantley Leibold, Ada Lyon, Lillian Rude, Harper Scott and Koen Schwickerath received National Honorable Mention, which is awarded to approximately the top 50 percernt of participating mathletes.

All other Decorah students re-

ceived a participation certificate.

The Noetic Learning Math Contest is a national mathematics contest for elementary and middle school students.

The goal of the competition is to encourage students’ interest in math, to develop their

problem-solving skills and to inspire them to excel in math.

This spring, a total of 41,034 students participated in the contest. More than 4,500 students earned the prestigious National Honor Roll title, and more than 17,000 students earned the Honorable Mention title.

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Kinsey White and Autumn Schmitt were selected as recipients of the 2025 Curtis Johnson Memorial Scholarship. White and Schmitt will each receive $1,000 to be put toward their college education.

White is a 2025 graduate of Decorah High School and is attending Northeast Iowa Community College’s Early Childhood Education Program. After obtaining her AA degree, she plans to transfer to a four-year college to complete a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Her parents are Bridget and Jason White of rural Decorah.

Schmitt is a 2024 graduate of South Winneshiek High School and is a student at Iowa State University majoring in genetics with a minor in animal science.

Her parents are Sara and Greg Schmitt of rural Waucoma. After graduation, Schmitt plans to pursue a career in the dairy genetics field.

The memorial scholarship is named after Curtis Johnson, who grew up on a farm in Hesper Township and was inspired by his father to pursue a college education. After graduating college, Johnson taught high school English, history and American studies for 35 years.

Living and working in the area of St. Paul, Minnesota, Johnson always had a special spot in his heart for where he grew up and attributed his work values and ethics to his youth on the

Kinsey White

Autumn Schmitt farm. His wife Mary Johnson and daughter Rannveig Polinski established the scholarship fund in 2024 to support Winneshiek County 4-H and FFA youth pursuing a degree in agriculture, teaching or communications.

The Winneshiek County 4-H program and the Johnson family extend congratulations to White and Schmitt on their awards and wishes them the best as they continue their college education.

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Decorah City Forester Sam Hogenson (center left) and Decorah Tree Board Chair Scott Timm (center right) received the Tree City USA Growth Award earlier this month during the 34th Annual Community Forestry Awards Luncheon in Ankeny. (Photo submitted)

Decorah receives Tree City of the World, Tree City USA Growth awards

The city of Decorah was recently honored with the 2024 Tree City of the World and Tree City USA Growth Awards at the 34th Annual Community Forestry Awards Luncheon in Ankeny. The awards were presented by the Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources on April 3 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny.

“The Tree City USA award

is a symbol for communities who have made a commitment to the management of public trees,” said state forester Jeff Goerndt. “Your community has provided an outstanding example for other Iowa communities by enhancing our forest resources and demonstrating the great value of trees in providing multiple benefits for future generations.”

Decorah was one of only

Sand

three Iowa communities to qualify for Tree City of the World and one of 25 for the Tree City USA Growth Award status. To receive these awards, a city must, at a minimum, have either a city forester or an active city tree board; have a tree ordinance; spend at least $2 per capita annually on its community forestry program; and have a tree planting and maintenance plan.

continued from front

also pointed to a bill Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed into law in 2023, limiting the ability of the State Auditor’s Office to access certain state information — Sand noted Monday the governor signed the law, despite what he called bi-partisan opposition at the time.

“This is one of those moments when you can put a stake in the ground,” Sand said Monday. “It is the clearest evidence that state government in Des Moines is much more focused on serving insiders and special interest groups than they are in serving Iowans. They don’t want Iowans to know about waste, fraud and abuse, because they gutted our office. That to me is just absolutely beyond the pale.”

Sand joins a growing field of gubernatorial candidates who have entered the race after Reynolds announced last month she will not seek reelection in 2026.

Currently, Sand is expected to face fellow Democratic candidate Paul Dahl in a primary election. On the other side of the aisle, Republican Brad Sherman has launched a campaign for the governorship, and Iowa’s U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra filed paperwork for “Feenstra for Governor” with the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board on Monday, according to the Iowa Capital Dispatch. A number of other Republicans, such as Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird and Iowa House Speaker Pat Grassley, previously said they were considering a run for the governor’s office, but neither had made an official campaign announcement as of press time.

Courtney Alexander, communications director for the Republican Governors Association, released a statement on Sand’s campaign after it was announced Monday morning, calling the Decorah native “just another extreme liberal” and arguing Sand would “turn Iowa into Tim Walz’s Minnesota” through higher taxes and what

Alexander called radical liberal values.

“Iowans want a governor who will protect their values and tax dollars, not one who needs his rich family to be named the ‘Influencer of Iowa Democrats’ by the New York Times,” Alexander said.

Gov. Walz endorsed Sand on Tuesday.

“Being a Midwesterner means a few things, and among them is that we’ve got a strong sense of community, and we do what we can to help our neighbors,” Walz said in a statement released by Sand’s campaign. “I believe you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who embodies that better than Rob Sand, which is why I can say with confidence that he’s the best person to lead Iowa forward as governor.”

Sand said Monday he feels optimistic he’ll gain public support now that he has thrown his proverbial hat in the ring to seek the governorship.

“I think that Iowans have elected me twice because, when they listen to me, they hear something a little bit different than the usual redder vs. bluer talk from politicians,” he said.

“They hear me really more focused on better and truer, and I think that’s what Iowans want.

They don’t want the back and forth. They don’t want the tug of war. They want someone to actually just try to solve problems.”

The state auditor harkened back to his high school days in Decorah, during which he worked to establish a skate park on the east side of the city — the park became a reality in the early 2000s and remains in place today. Archives of the former Decorah Journal said Sand led a 22-month campaign for the creation of the park, and Sand described that process as a nonpartisan one in which he, officials with Decorah’s Parks And Recreation Department, its park board members and city council worked together to answer what Sand called “ordinary, prob-

lem-solving questions,” such as the park’s location, funding and safety considerations.

“A lot of that perspective I’ve carried with me in the work that I’ve done,” Sand said Monday.

“In the auditor’s office, my senior leadership team has always been independents, Democrats and Republicans, because I like working together across those divides. I’ve always had people in senior leadership positions who made campaign contributions to my opponents, because I thought — growing up in Decorah — that part of the point was to actually work with people no matter what to try to solve problems.”

Sand went on to say he hopes to improve Iowans’ access to hunting, fishing and other outdoor opportunities, and he aims to undo a number of legislative decisions he feels have decreased government transparency.

“We need to restore the auditor’s office to have an ability to deter and detect waste, fraud and abuse of tax dollars,” Sand said. “Now we can’t do it for a hoot compared to how well we used to be able to do it. The governor denied our ability to look at the controls on $100 million in (private school) voucher spending last year. They stonewalled us for six months to try to stop us from finding out that the contract to the company that runs the voucher program got doubled — they literally just amended the contract to say ‘here, we’re going to pay you twice as much money do to what you already agreed to do for half as much.’ And then we were never even able to look at what was going on with the board of parole more than a year ago and whether or not it was following its own rules for how it does the state’s business.

That’s messed up. Iowans deserve to know how their money’s getting spent. They deserve to know how their government is running things.”

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Decorah ninth grade students visited Rubaiyat, where they toured the restaurant’s kitchen and learned how owners Kim and Andy Bonnet manage the business of fine dining. (Photo submitted)

Decorah ninth grade students get taste of local business during downtown field trip Approximately 150 ninth grade students from Decorah High School took to Water Street last week for a distinct field trip, visiting a variety of local businesses to learn about their operations firsthand. Each homeroom class toured three businesses — one restaurant, one bank and one retail store — as part of an ongoing effort to boost career readiness among Iowa high schoolers. The event came about through a partnership between Decorah High School, Winneshiek County Development and Tourism, Northeast Iowa Community College and participating local businesses.

This year’s participating businesses included Rendered Unique, Mabe’s Pizza, Decorah Bank and Trust, Viking State Bank, The Get Up and Rubaiyat.

“This initiative is a key part of Decorah’s District Career and Academic Plan, which is designed to increase awareness of local career paths, build real-world skills and support future workforce development

Bonnet manage the fast-paced world of fine dining and hospitality. At Mabe’s Pizza, students got a behind-the-scenes look at restaurant operations and the work which goes into running one of Decorah’s most iconic food spots. Rendered Unique owner Jamie Gavle offered the students insight into sourcing handmade goods, inventory management and customer experience in a boutique retail setting. At Viking State Bank, students learned about digital security and the diverse jobs which are necessary in a banking setting. Decorah Bank and Trust gave students a look at various banking careers, from marketing and branding to mortgage lending and customer service.

“It’s so important for students to connect with the businesses right here in their own community,” event coordinator Maddie Putnam-Keck said. “These kinds of experiences help give them a clearer picture of jobs they could have here in Decorah and Winneshiek County.”

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across Iowa,” said Decorah High School Counselor Pat Trewin. “The success of this event highlights the value of offering these kinds of hands-on learning opportunities. Students get to know many behind the scenes aspects of a business and some of what it takes to work at these places and the hard work it takes to own and run one of them. Businesses get exposure to 150 future potential workers or customers. Feedback was very positive about the experience and the school and students appreciate these businesses taking the time to share their story.”

At each stop, students engaged with local business owners and employees to get a closer look at what it takes to succeed in different industries.

At The Get Up, owner Lisa Lantz shared the boutique’s sustainable resale model, demonstrating how the store uses a unique code system to track items and handle transactions.

At Rubaiyat, students toured the restaurant’s kitchen and learned how owners Kim and Andy

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©978650_25

PUBLIC NOTICES

10 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - AMENDMENT OF CURRENT BUDGET WINNESHIEK COUNTY Fiscal Year July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024

The WINNESHIEK COUNTY will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of amending the current budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 Contact: Benjamin D. Steines, Winneshiek County Phone: (563) 382-5085 Auditor Meeting Location: Courthouse Annex There will be no increase in taxes. Any residents or taxpayers will be heard for or against the proposed amendment at the time and place specified above. A detailed statement of: additional receipts, cash balances on hand at the close of the preceding fiscal year, and proposed disbursements, both past and anticipated, will be available at the hearing. Budget amendments are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult https://dom.iowa.gov/local-gov-appeals.

Meeting Date/Time: 5/28/2024 09:30 AM

Taxes Levied on Property Less: Uncollected Delinquent Taxes - Levy Year

1 2

Total Budget as Certified or Last Amended 11,206,806 180

Penalties, Interest & Costs on Taxes Other County Taxes/TIF Tax Revenues

6 7

40,450 1,309,898

REVENUES & OTHER FINANCING SOURCES

Less: Credits to Taxpayers Net Current Property Tax Delinquent Property Tax Revenue

3 4 5

423,635 10,782,991 180

Current Amendment

Total Budget After Current Amendment 0 0

11,206,806 180

0 0

40,450 1,309,898

0 0 0

423,635 10,782,991 180

Intergovernmental Licenses & Permits Charges for Service

8 9 10

10,238,810 41,400 804,225

211,754 0 -95,000

10,450,564 41,400 709,225

Subtotal Revenue Other Financing Sources: General Long-Term Debt Proceeds

13

25,659,506

134,254

25,793,760

Use of Money & Property Miscellaneous

11 12

14

Operating Transfers In Proceeds of Fixed Asset Sales

15 16

Public Safety and Legal Services Physical Health and Social Services

Total Revenues & Other Sources EXPENDITURES & OTHER FINANCING USES Operating:

248,256 2,193,296

0

2,000 15,500

0

250,256 2,208,796

0

17

2,936,572 30,000

28,626,078

0 300,000

2,936,572 330,000

434,254

29,060,332

18 19

5,532,408 1,845,357

35,000 75,000

5,567,408 1,920,357

1,500 402,192 0

858,476 4,486,363 4,500

Mental Health, ID & DD County Environment & Education Roads & Transportation

20 21 22

0 2,719,393 7,986,119

0 151,490 995,000

Debt Service Capital Projects Subtotal Expenditures

26 27 28

0 4,545,000 27,573,924

0 755,000 2,415,182

0 5,300,000 29,989,106

29

2,936,572

0

2,936,572

Government Services to Residents Administration Nonprogram Current

Other Financing Uses: Operating Transfers Out

Refunded Debt/Payments to Escrow Total Expenditures & Other Uses Excess of Revenues & Other Sources over (under) Expenditures & Other Uses Beginning Fund Balance - July 1, 2023

Increase (Decrease) in Reserves (GAAP Budgeting) Fund Balance - Nonspendable

Fund Balance - Restricted Fund Balance - Committed Fund Balance - Assigned

Fund Balance - Unassigned Total Ending Fund Balance - June 30, 2024

23 24 25

30 31

856,976 4,084,171 4,500

0 30,510,496

0 2,415,182

0 2,870,883 8,981,119

0 32,925,678

32

-1,884,418

-1,980,928

-3,865,346

33

10,698,225

0

10,698,225

36 37 38

6,076,038 0 0

-1,302,650 0 0

4,773,388 0 0

34 35

39 40

0 0

2,737,769 8,813,807

0 0

-678,278 -1,980,928

0 0

2,059,491 6,832,879

Explanation of Changes: Additional expenses associated with the purchase of a building, additional right-of-way maintenance equipment, transfer of funds to the Farm-to-Market account, and other miscellaneous items.

Additional revenue associated with the sale of property and other miscellaneous items.

Additional revenues and associated expenses for grant awards.

05/08/2024 12:16 PM

May 5, 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, Christopher Miculinich, Steve Zittergruen, Cody Whittle, Brent Parker, Emily Neal, City Manager Travis Goedken, and City Clerk Keri Sand Absent: None Council Member Parker read the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge Proclamation The consent agenda was presented. a. Minutes of April 21, 2025, Council Meeting b. Claims c... Renewal Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service - Pulpit Rock Brewing Company d. Renewal Class B Retail Alcohol License - Kwik Trip #629 905 Short Street e. Renewal Class B Retail Alcohol License - Kwik Trip #1081 1101 Montgomery Street f. Decorah 2024 Quarry Street Improvements Pay Application #1 g. Resolution 3557 Set Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2025 Amendment h. Crater Trail Run Special Event - Scott Searcy and Decorah Park and Recreation i. Tobacco License Backwater Spirits & More j. Tobacco License Caseys #1591 401 College Drive k..Tobacco License Caseys #2183 1807 Old Stage Road l. Tobacco License Fareway Stores #589 m. Reappointment of Steve Runde to Civil Service Commission n. Resolution 3558 Approving Contract and Performance and/or Payment Bonds for the Water Meter Replacement Project Zittergruen made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented, Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Neal made a motion to approve Resolution 3559 authorizing an internal advance for funding of an urban renewal project, Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Neal, Olson, Zittergruen, Whittle, Parker, Olson, Miculinich. Nays: None. Motion carried.

Neal made a motion to approve Resolution 3560 approving the Assistant City Clerk job description and pay matrix. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes.

Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve the second reading of Ordinance 1344 amending Section 9.58.030 of the Decorah Municipal Code regarding curfew exemptions. Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Schissel made a motion to waive the third reading and adopt Ordinance 1344, Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Neal made a motion to have Alliant Energy complete the light design and installation for the Heivly Street Project and the City of Decorah to own the light poles within the Heivly Street Project. Olson seconded the motion.

Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Neal made a motion to approve the Decorah Fire Department to solicit quotes for a new fire rescue truck for potential ordering of the truck in July 2025. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Parker made a motion to have Steve Zittergruen participate in the Heivly Street Intersection Improvements RFQ Scoring. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve $100,000.00 of Sustainability Funds be used for Fiscal Year 2026 Downtown Economic Development Grant, Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Neal made a motion to approve the bridge mural proposal from Pete Tekippe, Olson seconded the motion. The mural would be located below the College Drive Bridge next to the bike path. Roll call vote. All voting ayes.

Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve the mayoral appointment of Jerita BalikBurreson to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

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

Meeting adjourned at 6:59 PM Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer MONDAY, MAY 5, 2025 PAYROLL, 25-Apr-25................180401.42 DELTA DENTAL, MAY 2025 DENTAL.................... 1305.20 HAHN, LOGAN, REIMBURSEMENT...................... 304.00 PETTY CASH, POSTAGE ................ 40.15 SCHUBBE CONSULTING, SERVICES................................... 8248.70 LANDFILL, DEBRIS.........................82.66 STAN MOELLERS, REIMBURSEMENT........................ 50.00 ACE HARDWARE, SUPPLIES......... 31.97 AHLERS & COONEY, SERVICES................................... 5790.00 ALLIANT, UTILITIES.........................7.80 AMAZON, SUPPLIES...................1449.96 ANDERSON WILMARTH VAN DER MAATTEN, SERVICES.............. 2376.00 ARIN, SERVICES............................. 262.50 BAKER & TAYLOR, BOOKS......... 901.66 BODENSTEINER IMP, PARTS....... 302.74 BRUENING ROCK, SUPPLIES...... 197.27 CALIBRE PRESS, TRAINING........ 219.00

Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025 CAPITAL ONE, SUPPLIES............. 151.94 CAROLINE ALLEN, PROGRAM..... 75.00 CASPER PLBG & HTG, WATER CHECK............................937.67 CHILL, NICK, REIMBURSEMENT.34.16 CIVIC SYSTEMS, SOFTWARE ............................19932.00 COPYLAND, SUPPLIES.................170.16 CROELL, SUPPLIES..................... 1658.50 CS SOLAR, UTILITIES................. 3045.96 DALCO, SUPPLIES.........................955.53 DECORAH ELECTRIC, TIMER ....190.46 DECORAH LEADER, PUBLICATIONS...........................703.56 DECORAH TIRE, REPAIR................ 24.99 DOUGLAS BERG, SERVICES........150.00 E-COLLAR TECH, SUPPLIES..........93.00 ELECTRIC PUMP, REPAIRS.......... 935.04 ELLIOTT EQUIP, PARTS................801.84 ERA, SUPPLIES............................... 321.60 ERDMAN ENGINEERING, REDESIGN ................................. 9170.50 EUROFINS, SERVICES................... 629.16 FORESTRY SUPPLIERS, SUPPLIES...................................... 122.07 FORTRESS FLOORS, SERVICES................................... 7513.20 HAWKINS, SERVICES......................50.00 HOLIDAY INN, TRAINING............ 474.88 HY VEE, MEALS...........................2825.50 ICMA, DUES.................................. 1001.00 IMPACT COFFEE, PROGRAMMING...........................39.50 INGRAM, BOOKS......................... 1196.78 IA DEPT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, SUPPORT.....................................1032.25 LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY, TRAINING..................................... 175.00 IROC WEB, WEBSITE .....................55.00 KRUSE, ANDY, REIMBURSEMENT......................120.00 LIFTOFF, SERVICES................... 12368.40 MACQUEEN, REPAIR.................... 137.85 MALCOM, SERVICES.................... 401.50 MCCLURE, CONSULTING.......... 7707.83 MELBY, JUNE, PROGRAM............100.00 METERING AND TECH, METERS...................................... 2298.90 MI ENERGY, UTILITIES..............2405.37 MISSISSIPPI WELDERS, SUPPLIES........................................ 69.00 NAPA, PARTS .................................... 54.15 NORTHEAST IA RC & D, SERVICES.................................45000.00 NE IA TASK FORCE, SERVICES.2925.27 ONCORPS, SUPPORT................... 1200.00 PERRY NOVAK ELECTRIC, REPAIRS....................................14107.94 PHILADELPHIA INS, INSURANCE ................................ 300.00 QUADIENT, POSTAGE................... 500.00 RACOM, SERVICES........................ 539.84 RANDY’S AUTO, PARTS...............129.37 RJ THOMAS MFG, SUPPLIES.....3171.00 SENSOURCE, PARTS......................432.00 SKYLINE LANDSCAPING, SAND.............................................200.00 SMI, FIBER....................................1422.75 SMITH, LEROY, REFUND.............. 150.00 SPAHN & ROSE, SUPPLIES......... 1499.08 STOREY KENWORTHY, SUPPLIES...................................... 702.11 STRAND ASSOCIATES, WATER METERS........................4755.25 SYN-TECH, MAINTENANCE......1675.00 THORNTON’S, SEED.....................100.00 UPPER EXPLORERLAND, TRAINING..................................... 448.78 UPS, POSTAGE................................139.23 USA BLUE BOOK, PARTS..............849.28 WINDSTREAM, UTILITIES............. 38.37 REVENUE TO DATE - MAY 2, 2025 General Fund.............................5678812.14 Street Electric Franchise Fee....... 147187.23 Road Use Fund............................ 785117.65 Employee Benefits..................... 1653311.60 Hotel/Motel................................. 286029.81 Emergency Fund.......................... 117258.47 Local Option Sales Tax.............1043285.74 TIFF............................................. 213941.01 SSMID........................................... 21134.83 Park Special Gifts..........................22779.74 Library Special Gifts.....................45644.12 Street Equip Fund............................6958.18 Debt Service Fund.....................1294385.42 Special Projects Water Utility Fund....................... 882695.72 Sewer Utility Fund...................... 935415.21 Enterprise Project Interest.............13312.29 Metronet........................................ 67130.00 Forest Utility............................... 118469.53 Storm Sewer Utility..................... 443475.21 Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT, IN AND FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY (JUVENILE DIVISION) IN THE INTEREST OF B.S. and B.S. A Child.

JUVENILE NO. JVJV002023 and JVJV002024 NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING [CHILD IN NEED OF ASSISTANCE] TO: Robie Eugene Shindelar YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Petition alleging that the child named above is a child in need of assistance has been filed in the office of the clerk of juvenile court for the above-captioned county. A true copy of the Petition is attached hereto and made a part hereof.

YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that the Court has entered an Order setting an ADJUDICATORY HEARING (CINA) on the merits of the Petition on June 18, 2025, at 9:00 am, in the designated Juvenile Courtroom of the Winneshiek County Courthouse in Decorah, Iowa.

Page 1 of 1

YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that the child must be represented by an attorney and guardian ad litem, which may be the same person. The Court has appointed an attorney and guardian ad litem to represent the child.

If the parent has or will retain an attorney to represent the child as attorney and guardian ad litem, that attorney should be notified immediately. If the child is then represented by counsel retained by the parents and the Court determines there is a conflict of interest between the child and her parent, guardian or custodian and that retained counsel could not properly represent the child as a result of the conflict, the Court shall appoint other counsel to represent the child and set a hearing to determine payment for attorney fees to be assessed to the parent.

YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that a parent, guardian or custodian in a child in need of assistance proceeding has the right to be represented by counsel at all hearings subsequent to the filing of a Petition. Attorney Gregory Schiller has been appointed to you and may be contacted at 563-539-2175. If you wish to privately retain counsel, you should immediately notify the attorney of these proceedings. If you desire representation but you cannot afford to hire and attorney, you should immediately contact the Clerk of the abovenamed Court and request from and file with the Clerk an Application for Appointment of Counsel and Financial Statement. If you are determined to be indigent, the Court may appoint counsel for you at minimal or no cost to you.

YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that upon your request, the Clerk shall issue subpoenas requiring the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of papers at the adjudicatory hearing.

YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that the adjudicatory hearing may take place without your presence if you fail to appear after reasonable notification. If you wish to state your views to the Court, you must appear in person or by attorney or the Court may rule against you.

YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that in the event the Court places a child in foster care, the child’s parent or guardian may be liable for all or a portion of the cost of foster care. Foster care includes all out-of-home placements except the State Training School at Eldora, the State Juvenile Home at Toledo, or the Mental Health Institute at Independence. The Iowa Department of Human Services will notify you of the amount of any recommended parental liability for the cost of foster care and there exists an administrative procedure if you object.

If you need assistance to participate in Court due to a disability, call the disability coordinator at (319)833-3332. Persons who are hearing or speech impaired may call Relay Iowa TTY (1-800-735-2942). Disability Coordinators cannot provide legal advice.

THIS CASE HAS BEEN FILED IN A COUNTY THAT USES ELECTRONIC FILING. You must register to eFile through the Iowa Judicial Branch website at https://www.iowacourts.state.ia.us/Efile and obtain a log in and password for filing and viewing documents in your case and for receiving service and notices from the court.

• For general rules and information on electronic filing, refer to the Iowa Court Rules Chapter 16 Pertaining to the Use of the Electronic Document Management System, available on the Iowa Judicial Branch website.

• For court rules on the Protection of Personal Privacy in court filings, refer to Division VI of the Iowa Court Rules Chapter 16.

• If you are unable to proceed electronically, you must receive permission from the court to file in paper. Contact the clerk of court in the county where the petition was filed for more information on being excused from electronic filing.

Iowa Judicial Branch Case No. JVJV002023 County Winneshiek You must file your Appearance and Answer on the Iowa Judicial Branch eFile System, unless the attached Petition and Original Notice contains a hearing date for your appearance, or unless the court has excused you from filing electronically (see Iowa Court Rule 16.302).

Register for the eFile System at www.iowacourts.state.ia.us/Efile to file and view documents in your case and to receive notices from the court.

For general rules and information on electronic filing, refer to the Iowa Rules of Electronic Procedure in chapter 16 of the Iowa Court Rules a www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/ ACO/CourtRulesChapter/16.pdf.

Court filings are public documents and may contain personal information that should always be kept confidential. For the rules on protecting personal information, refer to Division VI of chapter 16 of the Iowa Court Rules and to the Iowa Judicial Branch website at www.iowacourts.gov/for-the-public/ representing-yourself/protect-personal-information/.

If you need assistance to participate in court due to a disability, call the disability access coordinator at (319)833-3332.

Persons who are hearing or speech impaired may call Relay Iowa TTY (1-800-735-2942).

For more information, see www.iowacourts. gov/for-the-public/ada/. Disability access coordinators cannot provide legal advice.

Date Issued 05/09/2025 03:47:59 PM District Clerk of Court or/by Clerk’s Designee of Winneshiek County /s/ Sarah Trimble Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 22 & 29, 2025

ORDINANCE NO. 1344 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 9.54.030 OF THE DECORAH MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING EXCEPTIONS TO CURFEW ORDINANCE WHEREAS, the City of Decorah, Iowa currently has a curfew for minors set out in Chapter 9.54 of the Decorah City Code; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to amend Chapter 9.54 to provide further exceptions consistent with Constitutional rights.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, as follows: SECTION 1. That Decorah City Code Section 9.54.030 Exceptions to the curfew ordinance is amended by deleting the same in its entirety, and inserting in lieu thereof the following: 9.54.030 Exceptions.

The curfew restrictions of this chapter shall not apply to: A. Minors who may be out of their homes of residence after curfew hours when in the company of their parent, legal guardian, or another adult specifically authorized by law or by a parent or guardian to have custody or control of the minor; or B. Minors who are regularly enrolled students in a college or university; or C. Minors who are proceeding directly to or from their place of employment; or D. Minors who are proceeding directly to or from their place of religious activity; or E. Minors who are engaged in, or proceeding directly to or from, political activity such as a march, protest, demonstration, sit in or meeting of an association for the advancement of economic, political, religious or cultural matters, or for any other activity protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees of free exercise of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly; or F. The minor is on an emergency errand for a parent or legal guardian; or G. In a motor vehicle traveling through the city and in interstate travel; or H. On the sidewalk abutting the minor’s residence; or I. Persons who are under the age of eighteen, but considered emancipated pursuant to Iowa law, including being married or having been married.

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

Date of First Reading: April 21, 2025 Date of Second Reading: May 05, 2025 Roll Call Vote: Councilmen Voting Aye: Zittergruen, Miculinich, Whittle, Schissel, Neal, Olson, Parker Councilmen Voting Nay: None PASSED AND ADOPTED this 5th day of May, 2025.

CITY OF DECORAH Lorraine Borowski, Mayor ATTEST Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD RAY BUHR, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016395 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Donald Ray Buhr, Deceased, who died on or about April 27, 2025: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 7th day of May, 2025, the Last Will and Testament of Donald Ray Buhr, deceased, bearing date of June 25, 2019, was admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Russell Smith was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated this 9th day of May, 2025.

Russell Smith Executor of Estate 3903 N. River Blvd.

Independence, MO 64050 Jana Evelsizer Olson ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 Email: jana.olson@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: May 22, 2025 Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15 & 22, 2025 The Spillville City Council held a regular meeting at the Spillville City Hall at 6:00 PM. on Tuesday, May 1, 2025. Mayor Wermers called the meeting to order at 6:03 PM with the following councilmen present Kelsay, Straube, Schmitt, and Backes, absent: John Taylor, and Joe Honings and Greg Brennon from Iowa Geological Survey and Matt Frana from FPAC-NRCS were present.

Motion by Kelsay, second by Schmitt to approve the consent agenda. Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none, Abstained: Straube.

Motion carried.

Joe Honings and Greg Brennon from Iowa Geological Survey and Matt Frana from FPAC-NRCS were here to discuss findings and recommendations on Well 1.

Matt Frana presented on purchasing nitrate and chlorine testers along with doing an algae test. Larry Phillips and Matt Frana will work together on what we need. This will be reimbursed through the grant.

Motion by Backes, second by Kelsay to approve the Bily Clocks Rain Garden Project with funding from the RC&D and Winneshiek County Soil & Water Conservation District. Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none. Motion carried.

The Council discussed the new security system at the Bily Clocks and grant check from Depot Outlet to put towards the project.

The mayor updated the Council on the Water Project and the Precontractor’s Meeting held today.

The council discussed employee wages and will approve at the next Council Meeting.

Motion by Schmitt, second by Reed to approve payment for fireworks for Spillville 4th of July Celebration with request for past balance sheets and an invitation to meetings in the future. Roll call vote, Schmitt, Kelsay, and Backes, unanimous, Nayes; none; Abstained; Straube. Motion carried.

Motion by Straube, and second by Schmitt to approved the Spillville Fireworks Permit with South Winn Area Community Group for July 5, 2025 with rain dates for July 6 and July 7. Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none. Motion carried.

Motion by Straube, second by Kelsay to approve Resolution 25-5-6 Approve Adoption of Comprehensive Solid Waste Reduction Program by Winneshiek County Solid Waste Agency. Roll call vote, Schmitt, Straube, Kelsay, and Backes, unanimous, Nayes; none. Motion carried.

Council discussed rental rates at campground and will table it until next meeting.

Motion by Backes, second by Schmitt to close the meeting and adjourn. Voice vote, Ayes; unanimous, Nayes; none. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned 7:50 pm Attest: Lynette Andera, City Clerk May Meeting Claims 05/06/2025 Date, Name, Memo.........................Amount 04/30/2025, Andera, Lynette C, Payroll........................................-1,735.85 04/30/2025, Bodender, Lalanya S, Payroll...........................................-150.06 04/30/2025, Craft,Susanna-Virginia, Payroll...........................................-358.91 04/30/2025, Elsbernd, Sandra A, Payroll...........................................-561.54 04/30/2025, KUHN, RUTH, Payroll...........................................-711.29 04/30/2025, KULISH, JOANE, Payroll........................................-1,502.15 04/30/2025, PHILLIPS, LARRY J, Payroll........................................-5,690.26

04/30/2025, Thompson, Linda M., Payroll...........................................-131.02 05/05/2025, Origin Design, WaterEngineering.....................-20,451.20 05/06/2025, CITIZENS SAVINGS BANK Pay off Loan #59300 - Pleasant View Dr & Wonder Creek Water Main...-16,416.81 05/06/2025, DRIFTLESS SECURITY, Library Alarm – Inv 000395-R-0006.........................-70.00 05/06/2025, DRIFTLESS SECURITY, Clocks Security System - half Down – Inv 000458..................................-1,823.74 05/06/2025, Marv Smith Electric, Plbg & Htg, Sewer - Ran Inspection Camera Inv. 17943......................................-189.00 05/06/2025, BADGER METER, Water Maintenance & Fix Network Serv. Unit – Inv 80193546.................................-123.00 05/06/2025, ACE HARDWARE & RENTAL, Oil & Wax For Clocks #211515...............................-92.94 05/06/2025, , TASTE OF HOME, Library Serials.................................-27.82 05/06/2025, FISHER WHITING MEMORIAL LIBRARY, Library Books....................................-8.00 05/06/2025, MICROMARKETING, Library Books..................................-48.19 05/06/2025, Stanhope Public Library Book - Inv 202501...........................-15.00 05/06/2025, STRAUBE, THOMAS, Weed Control - Granular Weed Prevention Baseball Field - Preemergent........-230.00 05/06/2025, STRAUBE, THOMAS, Weed Control - Broadleaf at Park and 23 Acres Fertilize Library, Clocks, Baseball Field............................................-2,025.00 05/06/2025, US CELLULAR, Alarm Autodialer/Cell Phone...................-177.30 05/06/2025, Decorah Leader, Publications...................................-435.40 05/06/2025, VISA, City Supplies..-1,705.92 05/06/2025, T . ransferring From Library T & A Fund - Amazon Bill $138.96 - $25.00 Donation from D Ungs..................-113.96 05/06/2025, SHIMEK SANITATION, Shimek Sanitation Contract........-2,979.95 05/06/2025, FARMERS UNION COOPERATIVE, Fuel...............-1,290.57 05/06/2025, FENCL OIL & LP CO., Fuel................................................-946.47 05/06/2025.. , JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL, Shop Supplies................................-138.57 05/06/2025, IPERS, IPERS...........-2,143.28 05/06/2025, United States Treasury, Federal Taxes..............................-2,837.56 05/08/2025, GIGFIRE, Internet Service...............................-70.00 05/08/2025, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones.............................-234.26 05/08/2025, CENTURYLINK, Clocks Telephones.........................-147.49 Total.............................................-65,582.51 Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF DECORAH BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT Notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the City of Decorah, Iowa, has set 5:15 PM, Wednesday, May 21, 2025 for a regular meeting to be held at the Council Chambers of City Hall, in Decorah, Iowa, 52101, as the time and place for consideration of requested variances from the Ordinance requirements to-wit: Craig Running at 205 Riverside Avenue, legally described as the South 26 feet of Lot 6, in Block 6 of Original Decorah in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa as per plat recorded in Book A of Town Plats on page 228. Also, Lot 2 of 3, Lot 2 of 1 of 3 in the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter and Lot 2 of 1 of 25 in the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section 16, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M., in the City of Decorah, in Winneshiek Couty, Iowa; is requesting permission to construct an accessory building in the side yard of a corner lot and with a 1’ setback, contrary to City Code Section 17.16.030 – Accessory Building.

Alex Gisleson at 608 East Main Street, legally described as the East 41 feet of Lot 7, in Block 41 of Original Decorah in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa is requesting permission to construct an accessory building exceeding 30% of the back yard, contrary to City Code Section 17.16.030 – Accessory Building.

Ben Levinson & Heather Dolan at 1307 Big Sky Lane, legally described as Lot 1, in Block 1 of Minowa Heights 5th Addition in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa is requesting permission to construct 6’ tall fence in the front yard, contrary to City Code Section 17.16.135 – Fences.

All interested persons may appear at said time and place to be heard for or against the granting of variances from the Ordinance requirements. /s/ Sue Sander Sue Sander, Chair Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission/ Regional Planning Affiliation 1 DRAFT SFY 2026 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM (TPWP) The Transportation Policy Board for Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission (UERPC) / Regional Planning Affiliation 1 (RPA-1) will hold a public hearing at its upcoming meeting to receive comments on the draft RPA-1 Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) for state fiscal year (SFY) 2026. RPA-1 includes the Counties of Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard, and Winneshiek in northeast Iowa. The RPA-1 TPWP document identifies the transportation planning and administrative tasks on which federal funding will be used over the course of the fiscal year that begins July 1, 2025.

The public hearing will take place during the RPA-1 Transportation Policy Board meeting to be held on Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., at UERPC’s offices at 325 Washington Street in Decorah.

The draft TPWP is available for public review on UERPC’s website, uerpc.org. Written or verbal comments may be submitted prior to the public hearing to Aaron Detter, by mail at UERPC, 325 Washington Street, Decorah, IA 52101; by email at adetter@uerpc. org; or by phone at (563) 419-6126. In order to be considered by the RPA-1 Transportation Policy Board, comments submitted in advance must be received by May 27th, 2025.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING for proposed amendments to Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission/ Regional Planning Affiliation 1 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (TIP) The Transportation Policy Board for Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission (UERPC) / Regional Planning Affiliation 1 (RPA-1) will hold a public hearing at its upcoming meeting to receive comments on a proposed amendment to the approved RPA-1 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for federal fiscal years (FFY) 2025-2028. The meeting will take place on Thursday, May 29th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at UERPC’s offices at 325 Washington Street in Decorah.

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

The proposed amendment to the FFY 20252028 TIP is as follows: Addition of new project to the FFY 20252028 TIP, programmed in FFY 2026.

• Project # BHM-8295(604--8K-33 • Sponsor: City of West Union • Activity: Replacement/construction of bridge on N Pine St over Glovers Creek •zz Funding: $1,500,000 of federal BFP or STBG funding through Iowa DOT’s City Bridge Program.

Written or verbal comments may be submitted prior to the public hearing to Aaron Detter, by mail at UERPC, 325 Washington Street, Decorah, IA 52101; by email at adetter@uerpc.org; or by phone at (563) 4196126. In order to be considered by the RPA-1 Transportation Policy Board, comments submitted in advance must be received by May 27th, 2025.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025

Board Minutes May 5, 2025 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am May 5, 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.

Jon Vagts and Chris Wuebker, Opioid Taskforce, met with the Board to introduce Jen Pearson, UCS Healthcare, and give an overview of their Opioid Treatment programs.

The Taskforce is recommending an expenditure of $19,000 from the Opioid Settlement funds to UCS Healthcare to help them continue their programs here in Winneshiek County. Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Faldet to approve the request. Motion carried unanimously.

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to review road projects and present his FY25 DOT budget amendment. Moved

by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to approve the budget amendment as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the hire of John Bodensteiner for the Bridge Crew and Alex Kuennen for the Operator II positions. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Kelsay to approve the road closure request for a portion of County Rd B32 on July 4th for the Festina Community. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to adopt resolution 25-35, setting the public hearing on the FY25 budget amendment for 9:30am on May 27th. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Public notice will be published as required.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to renew the contract with Employee and Family Resources Inc for the Employee Assistance program. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to sign the letter of support for the City of Decorah’s application to the Iowa Thriving Communities program. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting and to accept and file the monthly reports of the VA Commission and the County Recorder. Motion carried unanimously.

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

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to enter closed session authorized under Iowa Code 21.5(k) to hold a joint meeting with the Security Committee and a representative of the Department of Homeland Security, to review the Security Assessment. Motion carried unanimously and the Closed Session was held.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to return to open session. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Vermace to acknowledge the receipt of the Security Assessment and refer it to the Security Committee for recommendations. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, May 12, 2025.

Motion carried unanimously.

ATTEST Benjamin D. Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025 The Spillville City Council held the special meeting at the Spillville City Hall at 6:00 PM. on Tuesday, May 1, 2025. Mayor Wermers called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM with the following councilmen present Kelsay, Taylor, Straube, Schmitt, and Backes.

Motion by Kelsay, second by Taylor to approve the agenda for the meeting. Ayes; unanimous Nayes none. Motion carried.

Motion by Straube, second by Schmitt to approve the liquor license for Civic Improvement Association. Ayes; unanimous Nayes none. Motion carried.

Motion by Straube, second by Schmitt to adjourn. Roll call vote: Ayes; unanimous Nayes none. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned 6:10 pm.

Attest: Reed Backes Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 15, 2025

Public Notice Winneshiek County is accepting applications for the appointment of Commissioner Board Member of the Winneshiek County Commission of Veterans Affairs Board. An applicant must be a veteran as defined in Iowa Code Section 35.1. Board Member applications available at winneshiekcounty.org, Winneshiek County Veterans Affairs Office or Auditors Office. Please return application and copy of all DD214’s to Winneshiek County Veterans Affairs or Auditors Office. Courthouse - 201 West Main, Decorah, IA 52101.

Applications are due by May 29th.

Decorah (Iowa) Leader May 8, 15 & 22, 2025

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DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

21, of Mexico was charged with operating while intoxicated — first offense — at approximately 10:53 p.m. Monday, May 12 in the area of Meadowlark Road in Decorah. A criminal complaint said the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office received a driving complaint from Houston County, Minnesota, that night and later observed a vehicle matching the caller’s description run a stop sign near the intersection of Meadowlark Road and Middle Hesper Road. A deputy stopped the vehicle, and observed “several open containers of alcohol on the front passenger floorboards,” according to a criminal complaint.

The complaint went on to say a preliminary breath test indicated Tecpile Macuixtle’s blood alcohol concentration was well above the legal limit to operate a vehicle in Iowa. He was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 12:10 a.m. Tuesday, May 13 and online booking information indicated Tecpile Macuixtle was being held for officials with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

day, May 10 on an arrest warrant for failure to serve jail time.

No injuries were reported after an Elgin teen lost control of his vehicle Sunday morning. A report from the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office said 17-year-old Ty Daniel Hurda was driving a 2013 Subaru Legacy north in the 1300 block of Frankville Road and entered a curve at what the report called an excessive speed.

The report said one of the vehicle’s tires dropped onto the east shoulder, and the car began to skid as the teen reentered the road. The vehicle then entered the west ditch and rolled several times. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $10,000. Hurda was cited for failure to maintain control.

Anthony William Sabin, age 37, of Cresco was charged with operating while intoxicated at approximately 10:40 p.m. Sunday, May 11 in the area of Highway 9 in Decorah. A criminal complaint said Sabin’s blood alcohol concentration was found to be more than twice the legal limit to operate a vehicle in Iowa. He was booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 11:30 p.m. the same day.

Aaron Tecpile Macuixtle, age

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For School, moreyouin committed each student formation call (563) 382-3651. Return cityto helping application to: achieve their full potential. Our students SIGNING BONUS Application and $1,000 complete job description may be obtained consistently perform at theDirechighest levels academically, athletically, and Decorah, Michael O’Hara, Public Works

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Winneshiek County Sheriff’s OfWinneshiek County fice said 20-year-old Luke MatSheriff’s Office Possible injuries were reported thew Stortz of Ridgeway was following a collision near Fort driving a 2015 GMC Acacia east Atkinson last week. A report from along 240th Street around 11:51 the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s a.m. Tuesday, May 6 and failed to Office said 62-year-old Sara Jan stop at the intersection of County Vagts of West Union was driving Road W14. The GMC struck a a 2006 Chevrolet Suburban north 2024 Ford F-150, which 31-yearalong Highway 150, as a 2012 old Troy Vincent King of CaledoVolkswagen Beetle driven by nia was driving north. The sher88-year-old Carol Yvonne Larson iff’s report said the Ford rolled was approaching from the oppo- and came to rest in the northeast site direction. Vagts turned west ditch. Stortz was cited for failure into a parking lot, and the report to obey a stop sign and yield the said Larson was unable to avoid right of way. Damage to the GMC a collision. The Volkswagen was was estimated at $10,000, while struck on the rear passenger side, damage to the Ford was estimated and continued moving southwest at $40,000.

Cheyenne Raven Bushman, after the collision before coming to rest on a parking barrier. Lar- age 22, of Spillville was charged son reported possible injuries. with possession of a controlled The report said Vagts, who was substance at approximately 11:02 cited for failure to yield upon a p.m. Friday, May 9 in the area of left turn, was uninjured. Damage Highway 52 south of Decorah. A to the Chevrolet was estimated at criminal complaint said Bushman $1,500, while damage to the Volk- was involved in a traffic stop and swagen was estimated at $10,000. law enforcement discovered marShane Michael Engelhardt, age ijuana inside the vehicle, after 23, of Decorah was charged with Bushman consented to a search.

Nickolas Holien, age 21, was first-degree harassment at approximately 9:56 p.m. Tuesday, May charged with operating while in6 in the area of Decorah Avenue toxicated — first offense and posin Decorah. A criminal complaint session of a controlled substance said Engelhardt allegedly called — first offense — at approxian individual and “requested the mately 9:49 p.m. Saturday, May victim return ‘a mushroom vape’ 10 in the area of 240th Avenue in and key within 10 minutes,” Calmar. A criminal complaint said threatening to “kick the victim’s a sheriff’s deputy observed three door in and bash her head in.” A males standing in the road near a Decorah Police officer later lo- stopped vehicle. Holien claimed cated Engelhardt, whom the com- to have driven the vehicle, and plaint said initially denied making the deputy observed an open conthe call, but ultimately admitted tainer of Busch Light in the cento the statements. Engelhardt ter console, a plastic cup on the was booked into the Winneshiek trunk and a vaping device which $1,000 tested positive for marijuana near County Jail at 1:05 a.m. SIGNING Wednes- BONUS day, May 7. He was booked into the driver’s side rear tire. Holien the Winneshiek County Jail again was booked into the Winneshiek at 9:20 a.m. Friday, May 9 and County Jail at 11:35 p.m. the same day. was held for another agency.

Enjoyreported working outside Carl Johnson, age 25, of WauNo injuries were fol- and looking a change? We provide on the lowing a collisionforlast week south kon was booked into the Winneshjob training! Class A or B CDL of Ridgeway. Adesirable. report from the iek County Jail at 8:35 p.m. SaturNo CDL, no problem, we

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NEWS

12 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | EDITOR@DECORAHLEADER.COM | 563-382-4221

Sheriff Marx

continued from front

Pictured are (left to right) Chief Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Deputy Lt. Steve Nesvik, Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx, Winneshiek County Jail Administrator Jeanne Sebastian and second Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Deputy Lt. Byron Hook. Nesvik and Hook were recently promoted to their current positions, and the four individuals make up the new administrative team at the sheriff’s office. (Photo submitted)

Sheriff Marx announces promotions Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx recently appointed former Second Deputy/ Lieutenant Steve Nesvik to the position of chief deputy. Additionally, former Deputy Byron Hook was promoted to second deputy/lieutenant.

The new administrative team will consist of Sheriff Marx, Chief Deputy Nesvik, Lt. Hook and Jail Administrator Jeanne Sebastian.

Nesvik is a 25-year veteran of law enforcement. Nesvik grew up in Winneshiek County and was a 1997 South Winneshiek graduate. Nesvik graduated from Hawkeye Community College in 1999 and has an associate of applied science degree in police science and criminal justice. Nesvik started his career in 2000 with the Winneshiek County Jail. In 2002, Nesvik was hired by the New Hampton Police Department before joining the Winnesh-

iek County Sheriff’s Office in 2006. During his law enforcement career, Chief Deputy Nesvik specialized in OWI and narcotic enforcement. Nesvik has been an active K-9 handler for the past 17 years, handling two different canines — Ricky and McCoy. Nesvik has served as investigator and a field training officer. He is also certified in meth lab/site safety, and he served as a team leader for the former Decorah/Winneshiek County Special Response Team.

Chief Deputy Nesvik will serve as second in command at the sheriff’s office.

Hook grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, and moved to northeast Iowa in 2000. Hook attended Upper Iowa University from 2001 to 2003. Hook served in the Army Reserve Unit for 13 years and was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Hook began his law enforcement career in 2009 with the Monona Police

Department and graduated from the 233rd Basic Police Academy at Camp Dodge Military Base in Johnston. Hook was a Decorah Police Officer before joining the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office in 2018. Lt. Hook is currently the firearms instructor and Winneshiek County Tactical training coordinator as well as an investigations and field training officer.

He is also certified in meth lab/ site safety. Lt. Hook will serve as third in command of the Sheriff’s Office.

Jail Administrator Jeanne Sebastian has 22 years of service and experience with the sheriff’s office. Sebastian has served in leadership since 2013 when she was promoted to jail administrator.

Sheriff Marx has been in law enforcement in Winneshiek County for 27 years and has served as county sheriff since 2015.

Surgical robot

continued from front

to become the main method in the U.S. for providing soft tissue surgery procedures.

Officials with Intuitive stressed that, while some might assume robotic surgery relies on automated mechanical systems, the surgeon maintains full control of the da Vinci during each procedure. Current da Vinci systems feature a three-dimensional viewer for surgeons to work at a magnification of up to 10 times, allowing surgeons to perform small-scale tasks — such as incisions, dissections or sutures — with precision.

“It’s almost like being able to do open surgery with minimally invasive tools,” Omvig said.

In addition, 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. In addition, while officials noted surgeons will still be trained in other surgical methods, Omvig said the degree of precision provided by a da Vinci system often yields improved patient outcomes, shortening their length of stay at the hospital, lowering readmissions to the hospital and decreasing mortality. WinnMed’s board was also told surgeons who use a da Vinci have seen a decreased need to prescribe opioids for patients as they manage post-surgical pain. The potentially addictive medication was dispensed at a statewide per capita rate of 34.6 in 2023, according to information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, and that year’s per capita rate in Winneshiek County was recorded at 23.4 — the state had recorded 237 opioid related deaths the previous year, according to information from the Iowa Department of Public Safety.

Omvig told the board earlier models of the da Vinci system were often used during heart procedures, but some surgeons at that time found the robotic system was also effective for urological procedures. He said that trend soon took hold and,

Officials with WinnMed in Decorah may be asked to approve the purchase of a da Vinci surgical system next month. The hospital’s board of trustees learned about a number of benefits the precision robotic system may provide, and a demonstration is expected to take place later this month.

INSET BELOW- The da Vinci system’s small robotic arms are able to articulate as a surgeon’s wrist would, allowing them to perform incisions, dissections or sutures with precision. (Images courtesy of Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc. Copyright 2025) around 2009, the systems were being used more commonly for hysterectomies and other gynecological procedures before taking root among general surgeons in approximately 2014, particularly to treat hernias.

Omvig estimated there are now 6,000 da Vinci robots in use at hospitals around the country — with about 32 of the 54 da Vinci systems in Iowa being used for general surgery. He went on to say the robotic surgery tool has seen significant growth among the Midwest’s critical access hospitals

— such as WinnMed — and he said the da Vinci often has the added benefit of functioning as a recruitment tool for rural hospitals. He said approximately 47 percent of the system’s growth in popularity is attributable to surgeons who were trained on a da Vinci unit during their residency period.

Slessor previously said a number of WinnMed’s current and future staff members had expressed interest in using a da

Vinci system, and discussion during last week’s board of trustees meeting indicated the hospital’s potential purchase would be available for use by surgeons at both Winnmed and Gundersen Clinic.

Intuitive personnel said many surgeons who have not previously been trained on a da Vinci t a k e t o the robotic system in relatively short order and are able to complete procedures as fast — if not faster — than they were using laparoscopic methods, in which another person must hold a small camera steady for the surgeon while they work. And WinnMed officials will potentially see a da Vinci robot up close in a matter of weeks. Company officials hope to bring one of the surgical systems to the hospital for a demonstration before the end of the month. Slessor indicated WinnMed’s Board of Trustees may be asked to approve the multi-million dollar purchase of a da Vinci robot as part of next month’s agenda.

paperwork falls outside what he called constitutional parameters, “then we will make every effort to block, interfere and interrupt their actions from moving forward.”

Bird’s office released a report on March 26, saying the post was at odds with a portion of Iowa Code prohibiting law enforcement from discouraging cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Bird’s report instructed Marx to remove the Feb. 4 post by 5 p.m. that same day and replace it with a statement Bird’s office had prepared.

“Iowa law makes clear that there are no sanctuary counties,” Bird said in a statement that day. “Any reports of sanctuary counties or sheriffs will be investigated. Our investigation into Winneshiek County found that the sheriff is violating the law, and we are giving the sheriff a chance to fix the problem.

Failure to do so means that his county may lose all state funding.”

A court must agree with Bird’s position before state funds can be withheld from Winneshiek County — the county received approximately $7.5 million in state funding during the 2023-24 fiscal year, according to information from the Iowa State Association of Counties.

Winneshiek County Attorney Andy Van Der Maaten previously said he and other local officials were informed of the attorney general’s proposed remedy and deadline the same day they were announced. Van Der Maaten said, as an alternative, county officials proposed replacing the sheriff’s Feb. 4 statement with a Feb. 14 letter Marx had previously submitted to Bird’s office as part of the attorney general’s investigation, but Van Der Maaten said the county’s offer was declined.

Bird’s petition was filed later that day, naming Marx and the county as defendants. A time stamp on the documents indicated the petition was logged electronically by the Polk County Clerk of Court’s Office roughly five hours after Bird’s 5 p.m. deadline — Marx’s attorneys have since asked a judge to transfer the case to Winneshiek County, citing a portion of Iowa law which requires cases against a public officer to be heard where the legal cause arose.

“Sanctuary counties are illegal under Iowa law,” Bird said in a March 27 statement. “Sheriff Marx was given the chance to retract his statement, follow the law and honor ICE detainers, but he refused — even at a cost to his home county. He left us with no choice but to take the case to court to enforce our laws and ensure cooperation with federal immigration authorities.”

Defense: ‘Mistrust of ICE officers is inherent in the statute’ The sheriff’s defense team claims Bird’s case is lacking in several aspects, arguing in part that Marx’s statements on the use of ICE detainers were legally accurate, adding Bird had also failed to show either Marx was committing any ongoing violation of the law — the sheriff’s attorneys questioned whether the attorney general’s office can legally sue Marx individually, and attorneys with Patterson Law Firm in Des Moines, which is representing Winneshiek County, asked the court on Wednesday to drop the county from the lawsuit, saying Bird’s petition doesn’t accuse the county of any unlawful action and naming the county as a defendant was improper. The defense pointed to Bird’s own March 26 report, which noted Marx’s office had complied with each of the 21 detainer requests ICE had submitted to the sheriff’s office since November of 2018 — previous state law required local law enforcement

‘I stand with Dan’ signage spreading through community

BY SETH BOYES NEWS EDITOR Messages of support for Sheriff Marx have been appearing around the community in the form of yard signs, t-shirts, stickers and other means since the Iowa Attorney General’s case was filed. Brian Peterson, co-owner of Letterwërks Sign City north of Decorah, said the business began printing signs and shirts — several bearing the words “We the people” and “I stand with Dan” — shortly after the case against Marx was filed in late March.

“He’s a very level-headed and common-sense sheriff,” Peterson said, noting Letterwërks had worked with Marx on a number of projects in the past. “We wanted to do what we could do to support him. We know a lot of people appreciate his style of doing things, so we’re just trying to do the neighborly thing and support our own.”

Local realtor Brianna Bruening was also hoping to launch a fundraiser in support of the sheriff soon after she heard of the lawsuit. Bruening said she isn’t typically outwardly vocal when it comes to political matters, but she said she felt a drive to raise awareness and support for Marx.

“After finding out about how everything happened — the order of events, with the post being taken down and then the lawsuit still coming out — nothing about it felt right,” Bruening said. “A lot of people in our community have known Dan for a really long time, and he’s just a really good guy. It felt like we needed to stand up for him, like he’s done for so many people in our community over the years.”

Bruening reached out to Letterwërks to see how she might help further the fundraising effort, and eventually, a number of other products were made available to the public — such as tumblers and decals. The messages of support have been popping up in front of houses and in downtown store windows in addition to some of the clothing items worn by area residents.

“I love that people are aware of what’s going on and supporting him,” Bruening said. “He deserves all of our support.”

Peterson estimated the fundraiser has generated about $1,500 so far, which he and Bruening said will be used to support the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office.

Peterson said the reaction from the public continues to be a positive one, judging by the comments he and his staff have received as customers pick up their orders.

“A lot of them are very appreciative of us doing it, and it’s one thing that’s probably brought both sides together — people, in whatever party they are a part of, are very supporting and unified,” Peterson said.

agencies to formalize policies relating to the enforcement of immigration law by Jan. 1, 2019.

“The petition is nothing more than thought policing,” the defense wrote in its May 7 motion. “At its core, Sheriff Marx posted his understanding of his constitutional duties on Facebook. Not only did the state take issue with that position, but (it) now threatens to withhold needed public funding from the people of Winneshiek County because Sheriff Marx does not agree with (a) state-drafted retraction.”

The motion also claims that there is no legal statute through which the Iowa Attorney General’s Office may compel Marx to post “a specifically phrased apology.”

The defense went on to argue Bird’s petition to the court became moot after the Facebook post was removed. The motion cited legal precedent in saying courts generally decline to hear cases in which a ruling will ultimately have no effect due to a change in circumstances.

“The court cannot grant an injunction for a violation that no longer exists,” the defense wrote.

Marx’s defense team also noted Bird’s petition does not claim Marx instructed any personnel to refuse to assist federal immigration officials, rather they said state prosecutors seem to argue statements in the sheriff’s Feb. 4 post were inaccurate and may have discouraged such cooperation. The sheriff’s defense team found no such in-

accuracies in Marx’s since-removed post, saying a number of points with which state prosecutors took issue were the sheriff’s opinions, while others were legally accurate.

“A sheriff having mistrust of ICE may make officers have less enthusiasm in their role in enforcing federal immigration laws. However, Sheriff Marx’s written policies make it clear that officers are instructed to cooperate with ICE,” the defense wrote. “The court should not take the unintended effect of loss of confidence of officers in ICE’s mission as an intentional hindering of the enforcement of federal immigration laws.”

The defense went on to cite a 2020 California District Court case in which a judge ruled ICE incorrectly identified a U.S. citizen named Gerardo Gonzalez for removal from the country and held Gonzalez on a detainer without properly establishing probable cause after he had been arrested on state charges.

Marx’s attorneys argue, if the legal statute demonstrated in the Gonzalez case is constitutional, the court cannot rule Marx’s statements merit the withholding of state funds.

“Mistrust of ICE officers is inherent in the statute, as local law enforcement must determine if the requests for detainers are properly completed,” the defense wrote.

Marx’s attorneys have asked, if the court agrees to dismiss Bird’s case against the sheriff, that attorney fees be paid by the state of Iowa. the

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SPORTS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

NEIC titles

TV girls secure two gold medals, boys one

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com The Turkey Valley track and field teams put the final touches on what could be the line-up for Thursday’s Class 1A state qualifying meet at Edgewood-Colesburg.

Turkey Valley girls mustered up 89 points and a fourth-place finish in the process. South Winneshiek sat atop the leaderboard in the team standings with 183, followed by North Fayette Valley’s 130 and Kee High’s thirdplace tally of 107.5.

The Trojan boys placed sixth as a team with 61 points. The host MFL MarMac Bulldogs won the meet with 155 points, 18 points better than runner-up South Winn’s 137.

Golden girls Bella Stika and her Turkey Valley Trojans were not to be denied in the distance medley at the UIC meet in Monona.

In the league get-together hosted by MFL MarMac, TV ran to a blue-ribbon finish in that distance medley relay, which was also anchored by Stika. Turkey Valley claimed the gold medal in a season PR of 1:57.15. Joining the sophomore on the oval were Hazel Nieman, Brynlee Hayek and Kendall Kuennen.

Stika, a sophomore, also outran the field in the open 800 by winning that event in 2:29.43.

Trojan sophomore Nieman ran a career PR in the open 400 with a second-place clip of 1:03.21. Alexis Gruenberg, just a freshman, also ran an all-time best in the 200 dash in 29.16 seconds, good for fifth place.

Rounding out top individual finishes for TV was sophomore Ellaney Bodensteiner’s second-place finish in the discus (103’7”). That throw was just inches away from her career-best toss of 104 feet.

TV’s 4x400 relay (4:19.67) ran its best time of the spring with the foursome of Kendall Kuennen, Stika, Gruenberg and Nieman.

The Trojans’ sprint medley squad of Kuennen, Jenna Throndson, Nieman and Stika ran to a silver medal in a time

Marion and Waverly-Shell Rock.

In Class 3A and Class 2A, the top two place winners in each event plus the next eight performances statewide from qualifying meet place winners first through eighth will advance to the state meet. In Class 1A, the top place winner in each event plus the next fourteen (14) best performances statewide from qualifying meet place winners will advance to the state meet.

of 1:57.15.

The 4x100 relay of Kuennen, Brynlee Hayek, Emersyn Hoffert and Throndson produced its second-best time in that event with a runner-up finish of 54.88.

Highlights for the boys The Trojan boys struck gold in the 4x400 relay with the contingent of Kaden Schmidt, Hugo Busta, Isaiah Wheeler and J.D. Kruse racing to a blue-ribbon finish in a season-best time of 3:38.64.

Schmidt did the same as he recorded an all-time PR in the open 400 with a second-place time of 53.97 seconds.

Wheeler, Kruse, Schmidt and Busta were rewarded with a silver medal in the 4x800 relay with a time of 9:05.

TV’s 4x100 relay – the exact same as that aforementioned 4x400 relay – crossed the tape in third place with a time of 47.66 seconds.

TV freshman Caleb Kriener notched a career PR in the 110-meter high hurdles with a clip of 19.71 seconds. That placed him fifth overall. Trojan sophomore Jayden Rausch also placed fifth in the mile run in a time of 5:12.

State-qualifying Thursday Turkey Valley girls and boys will be at Edgewood-Colesburg for the Class 1A state-qualifying action at 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 15. Running events will begin at 4:45 p.m. Other teams competing with the Trojans and host Vikings include South Winn, Central Elkader, Clayton Ridge, Dunkerton, Kee, Maquoketa Valley, Marquette Catholic, North Linn, Starmont, Wapsie Valley and West Central. In Class 1A, the top place winner in each event plus the next 14 best performances statewide from qualifying meet place winners will advance to the state meet.

UIC girls team scores 1. South Winn 183; 2. North Fayette Valley 130; 3. Kee 108.5; 4.

Turkey Valley 89; 5. Central Elkader 62; 6. Clayton Ridge 53; 7. West Central 28.5; 8. Postville 23; 9. MFL MarMac 20 UIC boys team scores 1. MFL MarMac 137; 2. South Winn 137; 3. Central Elkader 133.5;

TV sophomore Ellaney Bodensteiner finished second in the discus last Thursday with a throw of 103 feet, 7 inches — just short of her personal best. (Photo by Becky Walz) 4. Clayton Ridge 80; 5. North Fayette Valley 72; 6. Turkey Valley 61; 7. Kee 47; 8. West Central 30.5; 9. Postville 3 Girls results Shot put – 6.

Ellaney Bodensteiner 30’5”; 10. Nora Chicken 28’7” Discus – 2. Bodensteiner 103’7”; 10. Jenna Throndson 71’3” 100m – 10. Chicken 15.02; 16.

Raelen Manderfield 16.06 200m – 5. Alexis Gruenberg 29.16; 15. Manderfield 32.20 400m – 2. Hazel Nieman 1:03.21; 3. Gruenberg 106.00 800m – 1. Bella Sticka 2:29.43; 10. Courtney Ball 3:26.04 100m hurdles – 9. Jocelyn DeSloover 21.61; 10. Brynlee Hayek 22.44 400m hurdles – 10. DeSloover 1:36.94 Shuttle hurdle – 3. Hayek, Thronson, Gruenberg, DeSloover 1:21.22 4x100 – 2. Kendall Kuennen, Hayek, Emersyn Hoffert, Throndson 54.88 4x200 – 5. Hoffert, Addison Steinlage, Chicken, Manderfield 2:08.64 4x400 – 2. Kuennen, Stika, Gruenberg, Nieman 4:19.67 4x800 – 3. Steinlage, DeSloover, Ball, Hoffert 13:09.21 Sprint medley – 2. Kuennen, Throndson, Nieman, Stika 1:57.15 Distance medley – 1. Nieman, Hayek, Kuennen, Stika 4:25.75 Boys results Long jump – 9. Dawson Humpal 11’7.25” Shot put – 14. Jacob Wurzer 28’4”; 15. Cole Fencl 27’10” Discus – 7. Tucker Reicks 94’4” 100m – 11. Fencl 15.20 200m – 7. Darien Keyes 24.67; 14. Wurzer 27.74 400m – 2. Kaden Schmidt 53.97 800m – 7. Domminick Reicks

Tucker Reicks took seventh in the discus at the UIC meet last week in Monona. (Photo

by Becky Walz) 2:26.03 1600m – 5. Jayden Rausch 5:12.87; 13. John Forbes 6:59.25 110m hurdles – 5. Caleb Kriener 19.71 400m hurdles – 8. Kriener 1:07.91; 11. Levi Kruse 1:08.34 Shuttle hurdle – 5. Wurzer, Tucker Tlusty, L. Kruse, Kriener 1:20.47 4x100 – 3. Schmidt, Hugo Busta, Isaiah Wheeler, JD Kruse 47.66 4x200 – 4. Wheeler, Busta, JD Kruse, Keyes 1:40.95 4x400 – 1. Schmidt, Busta, Wheeler, JD Kruse 3:38.64 4x800 – 2. Wheeler, JD Kruse, Schmidt, Busta 9:05.42 Sprint medley – 6. L. Kruse, Rausch, D. Reicks, Keyes 1:50.39 Distance medley – 7. T. Reicks, J. Forbes, Humpal, Tyler Forbes 5:21.51

Girls’ event results High jump – 1. Renae Wilson 4’10’; 3. Brylee Hanson 4’4” Long jump – 3. Ava Holthaus 16’0”; 5. Jerikah Dodd 15’0.5” Shot put – 1. Lauren Luzum 41’6.5”; 2. Grace Tangen 39’11” Discus – 1. Tangen 121’4”; 4. Annika Schmelzer 107’10” 100m – 1. Stella Pole 12.59; 2.

Audrey Essa 12.60 200m – 1. Pole 26.21 400m – 1. McKenzie Riley 1:00.08; 2. Eden Northup 1:01.90 800m – 2. Lauren Holthaus 2:34.63; 3. Eva Hurley 2:35.93 1500m – 4. Olivia Volkmann 5:23.11; 6. Lily Sandhorst 5:38.90 3000m – 3. Brinlee Courtney 12:07.19; 4. Riley Christopher 12:07.38 100m hurdles – 1. Wilson 15.29; 3. Addisyn Ivy 17.18 400m hurdles – 2. Lillian Olson 1:13.10; 3. Raelyn Newhouse 1:14.69 Shuttle hurdle – 1. Kelby Kerndt, Ivy, Kennady Riehle, Renae Wilson 1:08.36 4x100 – 1. Ivy, Pole, Cassandra Stammeyer, Essa 50.53 4x200 – 2. Stammeyer, Ella Stille, A. Holthaus, Kerndt 1:49.29 4x400 – 1. Riley, Wilson, Northup, Pole 4:14.71 4x800 – 1. Olson, Volkmann, Newhouse, L. Holthaus 10:05.62 Sprint medley – 1. Kerndt, Stille, Stammeyer, Riley 1:52.72 Distance medley – 3. Jerikah Dodd, Caylee Malanaphy, Olson, Sandhorst 4:33.31

13

Continued from page 16 Shuttle hurdle – 3. Riley, Brayden Miculinich, Kyan Oftedahl, Thomas Davis 1:13.18 4x100 – 2. Quandahl, Adam, Driscoll, Webb 43.35 4x200 – 2. Driscoll, Grant Remington, Kade O’Hara, Webb 1:32.26 4x400 – 1. Max Grimstad, Mason Avila, Kuennen, Stemper 3:32.11 4x800 – 1. Fullhart, Zilka, See, Stemper 8:08.44 Sprint medley – 2. Quandahl, O’Hara, Adam, Grimstad 1:38.41 Distance medley – 2. Quandahl, Remington, Kuennen, Hammel 3:39.39

In 1:00.08, Viking senior McKenzie Riley (above) won the 400-meter dash at the NEIC meet Thursday.

Finishing second was teammate Eden Northup (below) in 1:01.90. (Photos by Becky Walz)

Boys’ event results High jump – 1. Peyton Webb 6’2”; 6. Parker Low 5’4” Long jump – 1. Trevor Kuennen 18’9”; 3. Dakota VanGundy 18’6” Shot put – 1. William Hahn 51’10.5”; 4. Luke Franzen 43’1” Discus – 1. Hahn 140’10”; 2.

Henry Brynsaas 139’7” 100m – 3. Josh Adam 11.34; 4.

Webb 11.48 200m – 4. Landon Quandahl 23.24; 5. Zach Driscoll 23.30 400m – 1. Mitchell Stemper 51.92; 2. Bennett Coppola 53.37 800m – 4. Thomas Hammel 2:04.87; 5. Bill Fullhart 2:05.87 1600m – 2. Grant Zilka 4:37.28; 3. Garrett See 4:39.88 3200m – 2. Clarence Nimrod 10:24.09; 3. Davis Coppola 10:54.53 110m hurdles – 1. Adam 15.34; 7. Carter Riley 18.42 400m hurdles – 4. Kyle Pattison 1:00.00; 6. Ray Hayek 1:02.37

TV finishes fifth in UIC; Bernhard league medalist Trojans swing past Clayton Ridge, 4th in UIC

Trojan Nick Bernhard earned the top spot in the Upper Iowa Conference Monday with a 72. (Photo by Becky Walz)

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com Turkey Valley has experienced some home cooking as of late as coach Nick Bernhard’s Trojans have hosted the last four golf meets they’ve competed in at Jackson Heights Golf Course.

The most recent home date was on Monday as TV hosted the Upper Iowa Conference meet and finished fifth with an 18-hole round of 342. South Winneshiek was crowned league champ with a 318.

TV sophomore Nicholas Bernhard achieved the No. 1 spot on the leaderboard as he was tabbed overall medalist along with Central Elkader’s Griffen

Hammersland at the conference get-together as each shot even par 72s.

Trojan junior Logan Busta was also tabbed all-conference as he fired an 81, good for seventh place. Brady Blong finished the day with an 88 while Calen Franzen carded an 18hole score of 101. Colton Kurtenbach (107) and Wyatt Maklenburg (115) also competed.

Turkey Valley hosted a triangular at home on Thursday, May 8 and saw Waukon and South Winneshiek come to town.

Waukon won the meet with a 317, South Winn carded a 319 and TV wound up with a 337.

Bernhard again made some noise out on the links with a

77, which tied him with fellow Trojan Blong and South Winn’s Braiden Todd for runner-up.

Blong’s stellar round, which matched his teammate Bernhard, was a career low. Blong shot the low nine-hole total with a 35, which was one-under par. Maklenburg fired a 97 to wrap up the Trojan scorecard.

Other Trojans on the links included Franzen (107) and Kurtenbach (110).

TV took on Crestwood at home Friday and saw the Cadets outscore the Trojans, 168 to 174.

Busta was on-point with a 41 (medalist runner-up), followed

by Blong’s 43. Franzen, a senior, and Maklenburg, a junior, each accumulated rounds of 45.

Each of those nine-hole rounds were personal bests for those aforementioned Trojans. Caleb Kriener toured the course to finish with a 58.

Back on Tuesday, May 6, TV outplayed Clayton Ridge at home to come away with a 22-stroke victory – 170 to 192.

Bernhard fired an even-par 36 to secure the top spot on the leaderboard.

Blong and Busta each entered the clubhouse with respective rounds of 44, while Maklenburg filled out the Trojan scorecard with a 45. Kurtenbach (50) and Kriener (58) toured the links as well for the Trojans.

Postseason hits high gear TV competed on Wednesday at the Class 1A sectional at South Winn Golf and Country Club in Calmar. Team and individual qualifiers advance on to Highland Golf Course in Mason City on Monday, May 19 for the district meet.

By Kelly Terpstra sports@nhtrib.com

It’s been a busy week of competition for the Turkey Valley girls golf team, hosting Clayton Ridge, a triangular with Waukon and South Winn as well as competing in the Upper Iowa Conference meet at the Guttenberg Golf and Country Club Tuesday.

Last week Turkey Valley turned back Clayton Ridge out on its home course of Jackson Heights last week Tuesday by a score of 222 to 250.

TV junior Annika Bodensteiner earned the medalist top spot with a 51, followed by sophomore Miyah Byrne’s

53. Brooklyn Kuennen (59), Morgan Vsetecka (59) and Karstyn Lukes (64) also competed for the Trojans.

The Trojans also hosted a triangular versus Waukon and South Winn last week Thursday.

The Warriors shot the lowest score among the three teams with a 397. TV was second with a 439 and Waukon carded a 444.

Bodensteiner was again the low score for the Trojans with a 101. Vsetecka fired a 103, with Byrne (116) and Lukes (119) concluding the TV scorecard.

Kuennen finished the day with a tally of 123.

Crestwood slipped past TV at home on Friday by a score of 186 to 228. Vsetecka carded TV’s best score with a 53. By-

Morgan Vsetecka chips onto the ninth green at the Guttenberg Golf Course. The TV senior knocked out a 103 Tuesday to finish 13th and earn a UIC nod. (Photo by Becky Walz)

rne (55), Kuennen (57) and Lukes (63) completing the scoring for the Trojans.

Conference action The Trojans were back at it Tuesday at the Upper Iowa Conference meet at the Guttenberg Golf Course, finishing fourth with a 435 final tally. MFL MarMac (387) edged South Winn (388) for the team title with North Fayette Valley finishing third.

Bodensteiner was the top Trojan with a 100 to finish seventh with All-UIC honors. Morgan Vsetecka also got a league nod for her 13th place finish with a 103. Kuennen (115) and Lukes (117) also counted for Turkey Valley with Byrne finishing the day with a 119.

Regionals Friday The Trojans’ postseason run begins at the Class 1A Region 5C first round regional in Colesburg at 10 a.m. Friday, May 16.

The top two teams in each region advance to the regional final. If the host school (playing on their home course) finishes first or second place in the first round of Regionals, then the third-place team will advance to the regional meet as well. The top six individuals (and those tied for sixth place) also advance to the next level of play, regardless of if they are on a qualifying team or not. All individual ties will be broken (except for sixth place ties) to determine each golfer’s final rank.

The regional final will be hosted by Midland Schools at the Little Bear Country Club near Wyoming Wednesday, May 21.

SPORTS

14 | DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

South Winn girls win, boys runner-up at UIC races UIC girls team scores 1. South Winn 183; 2. North Fayette Valley 130; 3. Kee 108.5; 4.

Turkey Valley 89; 5. Central Elkader 62; 6. Clayton Ridge 53; 7. West Central 28.5; 8. Postville 23; 9. MFL MarMac 20 UIC boys team scores 1. MFL MarMac 155; 2. South Winn 137; 3. Central Elkader 133.5; 4. Clayton Ridge 80; 5. North Fayette Valley 72; 6. Turkey Valley; 7. Kee 47; 8. West Central 30.5; 9.

Postville 3

Sunshine, calm winds and the talent of the Upper Iowa Conference track and field girls and boys teams led to some impressive outcomes Thursday as MFL MarMac hosted the league meet.

Cale Kleppe sends up a cloud of dust and grass as he hits from a fairway at Jackson Heights Golf Course Monday during the UIC tournament. The junior carved out a 75 to claim fifth and an all-conference nod. (Photo by Becky Walz)

SW boys best of UIC linksters Getting to play in the sunshine and calm winds, the South Winn boys golf team is ready for so much more after winning the Upper Iowa Conference title Monday and finishing up the regular season last week in a triangular.

Top of the league Hard work continues to pay off for the Warriors as they earned the UIC title Monday at Jackson Heights Golf Course, hosted by Turkey Valley.

South Winn combined for a tally of 318 to win over MFL MarMac’s 324. North Fayette Valley came through with a 330, just ahead of Central Elkader’s 331. The Trojans finished with a 342 in fifth place. Other teams on the course included Clayton Ridge (358), West Central (374) and Postville (412).

“Winning this conference tournament this year is a very big deal. The conference is probably as strong as I’ve ever seen it, so coming out on top is a very difficult thing to do. We had five players receive all-conference awards, with Carver (Wenthold) just missing by a single stroke. Our depth was on full display and will be crucial going forward. I am just so incredibly proud of our boys.

They’ve worked very hard over the last few years, and they deserve everything they’ve achieved,” said coach Michael

Warrior junior Carson Streeter carded an 85 Monday to earn conference honors and help South Winn to the team title. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Wenthold.

Turkey Valley’s Nicholas Bernhard carved out a par 72 score to win medalist honors with Central’s Griffen Hammersland as the runner-up, also with a 72.

Braiden Todd led South Winn with a 74 to finish fourth, just ahead of Cale Kleppe’s 75, who finished fifth. Matson Winings fired an 84 to earn 14th while Jackson Goltz completed the Warrior scoring with an 85 in 15th. Carson Streeter also carded an 85 with Carver Wenthold fashioning an 86, to put all six Warriors in the top 20.

18 holes at Jackson Heights In preparation for the postseason South Winn competed in an 18-hole triangular against Waukon and Turkey Valley at Jackson Heights Golf Course in Jackson Junction on Thursday.

The Warriors came up short of the win, two strokes behind Waukon (317) with a 319. Turkey Valley finished the day with a 342.

Waukon’s Dylan Stegan (73) took home medalist honors with Todd finishing in a three-way tie for the runner-up spot with the Turkey Valley duo of Nicholas Bernhard and Brady Blong with all three posted 77s.

Kleppe toured the course with a 78 with Streeter and Goltz firing rounds of 82s to fill out the Warrior scorecard. Winings (84) and Wenthold (89) were also on the course.

“This was another really strong round by the guys, and it’s great to see that our solid play continues as the postseason begins. Braiden Todd played what we call ‘boring golf’ which is a very good thing. He put himself in good positions and made a lot of pars.

That’s what we are looking for from all of the guys,” said coach Wenthold.

Road to state The Warriors hosted one of the Class 1A sectionals at South Winn Golf and Country Club in Calmar. Team and individual qualifiers advance on to Highland Golf Course in Mason City on Monday, May 19 for the district meet.

Nine golds The South Winn girls dominated the oval, winning nine golds on their way to the conference title with 183 points.

North Fayette Valley was second with 130 points.

Individually Maddy Jansen won a pair of titles. The junior broke the tape in the 200-meter dash in 27.73 seconds and won the 400-meter dash in 58.33 seconds. Cloey Zweibohmer sprinted 100-meters in 13.39 seconds to win that event. Annie Hageman won the only other individual event. The sophomore took home the 1500-meter title in 5:31.42.

Five relays also reigned over the UIC field. Emmy Gehling,

A little short Putting up 137 points, the Warriors boys were second to the host Bulldogs’ 155 points.

South Winn had four gold-medal performances that began with Kaden Barton-Franzen in the high jump.

The senior took the win with the bar at 5 feet, 10 inches. In 4:43.87, Hugh Conway won the 1600-meter run.

Two relays also won titles.

The distance medley’s time of 3:47.70 was the best of the night. Teaming up were Eric Greve, Lukas Weiss, Brennan

Landen Schnuelle fired off the discus 109 feet, 7 inches to finish fourth at the Upper Iowa Conference meet in Monona last week. (Photo by Becky Walz) Franzen and Conway. In the 4x100 relay the quartet of Irving Flores, Franzen, Weiss and Greve broke the tape. They had a time of 45.25 seconds.

State-qualifying Thursday South Winn will be at Edgewood-Colesburg for the Class 1A state-qualifying action at 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 15.

Running events will begin at 4:45 p.m. Other teams competing with the Warriors and host Vikings include Turkey Valley, Central Elkader, Clayton Ridge, Dunkerton, Kee, Maquoketa Valley, Marquette Catholic, North Linn, Starmont, Wapsie Valley and West Central. In Class 1A, the top place winner in each event plus the next 14 best performances statewide from qualifying meet place winners will advance to the state meet.

Girls results High jump – 3. Alyssa Holthaus 4’4” Long jump – 5. Charlotte Moonen 12’8.75”; 6. Hayden Steffans 10’10.25” Shot put – 5. Emily Hovden 32’0”; 11. Jayden Timp 26’9” Discus – 3. Kelsey Timp 101’5”; 8. McKenna Looby 89’2” 100m – 1. Cloey Zweibohmer 13.39; 2. Katie Shimek 13.51 200m – 1. Maddy Jansen 27.73; 2. Shimek 27.98 400m – 1. Jansen 59.33; 7. Tessa Phillips 1:09.98 800m – 2. Addy Conway 2:32.73; 6. Karissa Wenthold 2:43.46 1500m – 1. Annie Hageman 5:31.42; 2. Ava Franzen 5:31.84 3000m – 2. Phillips 12:08.56; 4.

Lauren Ondrashek 12:46.79 100m hurdles – 7. Izzy Kuboushek 19.15; 11. Moonen 22.99 400m hurdles – 4. Kuboushek

ABOVE: South Winn senior Kelsey Timp begins her spin in the discus during the UIC meet Thursday in Monona where she finished third with a throw of 101 feet, 5 inches.

RIGHT: Lauren Ondrashek treks down the front stretch during the 3000-meter run at the conference meet. (Photos by Becky Walz)

1:17.06; 5. Vanessa Bullerman 1:17.39 4x100 – 1.

Zweibohmer, Holthaus, Allison Hageman, Britney Hageman 54.84 4x200 – 1. Shimek, Emmy Gehling, Al. Hageman, B. Hageman 1:53.69 4x400 – 1. Shimek, Alexis Johanningmeier, Conway, Jansen 4:14.63 4x800 – 1. Wenthold, Franzen, Kuboushek, Bullerman 10:49.11 Sprint medley – 1. Gehling, Al. Hageman, Johanningmeier, Jansen 1:54.94 Distance medley – 2. Conway, Steffans, Johanningmeier, An. Hageman Boys results High jump – 1. Kaden BartonFranzen 5’10”; 3. Jordan Einck 5’6” Long jump – 5. Gavin Feickert 17’3.5”; 7. Levi Feickert 16’1.75” Shot put – 10. Kyle Kuboushek 32’0’; 13. Shayde Wermers 30’9” Discus – 4. Landen Schnuelle 109’7”; 5. Tristen Bodensteiner 108’11” 100m – 3. Camden Bullerman 11.97; 4. Irving Flores 12.12 200m – 2. Eric Greve 23.57; 3.

Brennan Franzen 24.00 400m – 9. Yahir Macario 1:04.67; 11. Landon Humpal 1:09.04 800m – 2. Brad Dahl 2:10.80; 5.

Cameron Einck 2:15.98 1600m – 1. Hugh Conway 4:43.87; 10. Caden Tieskoetter 5:44.38 3200m – 3. Cameron Einck 10:43.80; 6. L. Feickert 12:43.09 400m hurdles – 6. Landon Livingood 1:03.79; 9. BartonFranzen 1:08.12 Shuttle hurdle – 4. BartonFranzen, J. Einck, Livingood, G. Feickert 1:15.78 4x100 – 1. Flores, Franzen, Lukas Weiss, Greve 45.25 4x200 – 3. Bullerman, Livingood, K. Kuboushek, Schnuelle 1:40.25 4x400 – 6. K. Kuboushek, Andy Acahua, J. Einck, Schnuelle 3:53.36 4x800 – 4. Dahl, Acahua, Tieskoetter, Clayton Kuboushek 9:38.03 Sprint medley – 2. Flores, Franzen, Weiss, Conway 1:42.79 Distance medley – 1. Greve, Weiss, Franzen, Conway 3:47.70

South Winn girls fall one stroke short of UIC title

It appears as if the South Winn girls golf team is playing some of its best games with the postseason now underway. Last week, the Warriors won a triangular at Jackson Heights and finished second in the Upper Iowa Conference Monday.

UIC Anything can happen once the postseason hits, as the Warriors found out all too well Tuesday, falling one stroke shy of tying MFL MarMac at 387 for the UIC title at the Guttenberg Golf Course. South Winn finished the day with a season

Coming up in area varsity sports May 15 – Dec b golf vs. Winona Senior (Oneota), 2 p.m.; Dec g/b tr host Class 3A State-Qualifying, 4 p.m.; SW/TV g/b tr at State-Qualifying (Edgewood-Colesburg), 4 p.m.; Dec g/b soc at Denver, 5 p.m.

May 16 – Dec g ten at Team Regional (Luther College Courts), 9 a.m.; SW/TV g golf at First Regional (Colesburg), 10 a.m.

May 17 – Dec b ten at Team Substate (Luther College courts), 10 a.m.

May 19 – Dec b golf at Districts (Manchester), 10 a.m.; SW/TV b golf at Districts (Mason City), 10 a.m.; Dec g soc at Regional (TBA), 6 p.m.; Dec b soc at Substate (TBA), 6 p.m.

May 20 – Dec g ten at Team Regional Final (TBA), 1 p.m.

May 21 – Dec g golf at Regional (Manchester), 10 a.m.; Dec b ten at Team Substate (TBA), 10 a.m.

May 22-24 – Dec/SW/TV g/b tr at State (Des Moines), TBD May 24 – Dec g ten at Team State Quarterfinal (TBA), 9 a.m.

May 26 – Dec bb vs. Kee, 5 p.m.; Dec b soc at Substate (TBA), 6 p.m.

May 27 – Dec g ten at Team State (TBA), 9 a.m.; Dec b golf at State, 10 a.m.; Dec b ten at State Singles/Doubles (Waterloo), 10 a.m.; Dec g soc at Regionals (TBA), 6 p.m.; TV bb vs. MFL MarMac, 4 p.m.; Dec sb at South Winn, 7 p.m.; TV sb vs.

Starmont, 7 p.m.

Allison Hageman, Alexis Johanningmeier and Jansen had the best time in the sprint medley with 1:54.94. The 4x800 relay was the second team to win.

Karissa Wenthold, Ava Franzen, Izzy Kuboushek and Vanessa Bullerman put up the winning time of 10:49.11. In 1:53.69, it was Katie Shimek, Gehling, Al. Hageman and Britney Hageman taking the gold in the 4x200 relay. The night finished with back-to-back relay wins by the 4x100 and 4x400. In the 4x100 relay it was Zweibohmer, Alyssa Holthaus, Al. Hageman and B. Hageman going around the track in 54.84 seconds. Shimek, Johanningmeier, Addy Conway and Jansen teamed up in the 4x400 for the win. The quartet posted a time of 4:14.63.

A 111 left Bailee Frana just outside of the All-UIC list Tuesday. (Photo by Becky Walz)

low 388, well ahead of third place North Fayette Valley who tallied a 402.

The Warriors put three linksters on the all-conference list for finishing in the top 15 including the runner-up Abby Wagner who is only in her first year of competing in the sport.

The senior fired a 91 behind medalist Devon Meyer of MFL MarMac who had an 86.

Freshman Maya Lensing carded a 93 to finish third with Julia Carnesi carving out a 100 to take eighth place. Bailee Frana’s 104 was one stroke short of all-UIC honors, wrapping up the SW scorecard. Claire Becker fashioned a 107 while Aubrey Hageman toured the course with a 111.

Career lows The Warriors had yet another impressive day Thursday at Jackson Heights Golf Course, shooting an impressive 18-hole combined score of 397 to win over Turkey Valley (439) and Waukon (444).

Claire Becker was a medalist of the meet, shooting a career low 97. Right behind her was runner-up, senior Aubrey Hageman, shooting a career low 98. SW’s two scoring players were Maya Lensing at 100 and Julia Carnesi with a career low 102. Seniors Abby Wagner (107) and Bailee Frana (111) were also touring the course.

Warrior senior Abby Wagner finished at the conference runner-up Tuesday in Guttenberg with a 91. (Photo by Becky Walz) “The girls continue to play great golf. Our abundance of 18-hole meets this year have been crucial to preparing us for the postseason,” said coach Munuswamy.

Regional Friday The Warriors’ postseason run begins at the Class 1A Region 5C first round regional in Colesburg at 10 a.m. Friday, May 16.

The top two teams in each region advance to the regional final. If the host school (playing on their home course) finishes first or second place in the first

round of Regionals, then the third-place team will advance to the regional meet as well.

The top six individuals (and those tied for sixth place) also advance to the next level of play, regardless of if they are on a qualifying team or not. All individual ties will be broken (except for sixth place ties) to determine each golfer’s final rank.

The regional final will be hosted by Midland Schools at the Little Bear Country Club near Wyoming Wednesday, May 21.

SPORTS

DECORAH LEADER | THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 | WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM | SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ | BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Girls soccer scores first win It was a long time in the making, but the Decorah girls soccer team (1-12-2) earned its first win Monday after a struggle against Union Thursday and a weekend tournament in Waverly.

Overpowered Decorah faltered with its abilities Thursday at Union (4-6-3), falling 8-0.

“This was one where nothing went right for us. We struggled to defend, and when we attacked, our shots were ineffective. We will look at the video of this one and see what new options we might try to change the trajectory of this season.

Everything is on the table,” said coach Loren Hendrickson.

While nothing seemed to go right, the Vikes did have eight shots on the goal. Stella Grinna, Nora Lesmeister and Amelia Wadsworth had two apiece with Sara Johanningmeier and Regine Hougen each putting on toward the net.

In the goal, Taylor SloanDahl had four saves.

Good play Saturday Following the disappointing showing at Union Thursday, the Vikings turned things around Saturday at the Waverly-Shell Rock tournament, going toeto-toe with Regina Catholic (73-3) in a 0-0 tie and playing a tight match against No. 11 Center Point-Urbana (10-1-2).

“This (game one) was a nice turnaround game for us against Regina. We were arguably the better team throughout the whole game but couldn’t find a finishing touch to get our first victory. We tried a new formation and it seemed to be working quite well for us. We outshot Regina, and our goalkeeper had practically nothing to do,” noted coach Hendrickson.

Lesmeister and Vivian Searcy

had two shots on the goal each to account for the four recorded by the Vikes.

In game two, the Stormin’ Pointers took advantage of the little fuel left in the Vikes’ tank, winning 3-0.

“We continued our good play for the first half of this game, keeping it scoreless into the break, but seemed to run out of gas in the second half, giving up all three goals during that stanza,” said coach Hendrickson.

“I have to give the girls credit, though. We are going through a stretch where we played four games in the course of four days. Our legs are pretty exhausted and we still kept up the fight.”

Decorah had just two shots on the goal with Grinna and Leah Garcia-Prats providing the pair.

Sloan-Dahl once again stood in the goal and came up with four saves.

Huinker sisters headed to state tennis tournament The Decorah girls tennis team wrapped up their 2025 regular season with a dominant performance in their final meet and will send a doubles team to state.

Kelton Casterton takes on a header in a recent Viking match. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Up and down week for Routing the Pirates The Vikings were finally re- Viking boys warded with a win Monday as they hosted Postville (2-8), de- on the pitch feating the Pirates 8-0.

Decorah put a pair of goals in the net in the first half and netted six more in the second for the victory.

“This one was nice for the mere fact that our girls were finally rewarded for all the effort put in during the course of the season. Instead of that little black cloud that has followed us through this season, we finally were able to bask in some sunshine,” said coach Hendrickson.

While eight goals were scored, Decorah dominated the match with 17 shots on the goal.

While the Vikings had multiple scores, it was Johanningmeier and Lesmeister leading the offense with two goals apiece.

Grinna, Wadsworth, Ana Simon and Clara Hjelle all added one.

Decorah senior Sara Johanningmeier makes a pass in a recent road match at North Fayette Valley. Monday, Johanningmeier put two balls into the net at Postville to help lift the Vikes to an 8-0 win. (Photo by Becky Walz)

15

The Decorah boys soccer team (4-7-4) saw every outcome possible last week, suffering a loss, winning and posting a tie.

Make-up match Thursday’s match versus Class 1A No. 3 Hudson (10-02), which had been rained out in late April, could have easily gone in the Vikes’ direction with 12 shots on the goal; however, the Pirates took the 2-1 victory back to Hudson.

The junior duo of Will Larson and Ian Giddings had three shots on goal apiece with Oliver Bollinger adding a pair. With one each were Oak Pasche, Brigham Bishop, Gavin Luzum and Noah Milburn.

In goal, senior Garrison Grinna grabbed six saves.

In Waverly Saturday Taking part in the annual Waverly-Shell Rock tournament Saturday, Decorah earned an 8-1 victory over Garner-Hayfield-Ventura (3-7-1) and tied 3-3 with Hampton-Dumont-CAL (8-3-3).

The Vikings opened the day with four goals in each half against Garner-Hayfield-Ventura, giving up the lone score in the second half.

Scoring on eight of their nine shots on goal, Liam Huang scored a pair of goals. With one goal apiece were Larson, Bollinger, Sawyer Courtney, Riley Berns, Giddings and Milburn. Bollinger had Decorah’s other shot on goal. Grinna took care of the goal with four saves.

In game two, Hampton-Dumont-CAL held a 3-1 lead at halftime before the Vikes put two balls in the net to tie the score 3-3. Larson scored the hat trick for Decorah on his three shots on the goal. Bollinger and Pasche also fired once at the goal while Jameson LaBelle came up with five saves.

Road to state Hosting a Class 1A girls individual tennis qualifier on Monday, Decorah was represented by singles players Jaidyn Duvel and Klaara Short, along with the doubles teams of Olivia and Grace Huinker and Kaitlyn Bjork and Leah Holland.

In singles play, Klaara Short opened the day with a strong win over Osage’s top player, Marley Kerrick. After taking the first set 6-2, she gutted out a tight second set for a 7-5 victory. Her quarterfinal match was a hard-fought battle against Megan Bruns from Aplington-Parkersburg. After dropping the first set 4-6 and playing through a shoulder injury, Short roared back to take the second 6-1 and secured her semifinal spot with a 10-5 win in the match tiebreaker. In the semifinals, she faced Sofia Alina of Charles City, who would go on to be the regional champion.

Despite falling 2-6, 3-6, Short played with grit and determination. In the third-place match, she defaulted due to injury.

Jaidyn Duvel started strong, cruising past Carly Vogel of Western Dubuque 6-0, 6-3.

Her next match, played in peak heat, was a grind against Addie Kruse of Waverly-Shell Rock.

With smart play and endurance, Duvel claimed a 6-4, 7-5 win to reach the semifinals. There, she battled Bella Buseman of Aplington-Parkersburg in a grueling three-set match. After taking the first set 6-4, Duvel dropped the next two 3-6, 4-6 in a display of relentless effort.

She finished third overall after Short’s injury default.

In doubles action, Kaitlyn Bjork and Leah Holland, seeded third, opened with a 6-3, 6-1 victory over Waverly-Shell Rock’s Megan Heyer and Madelyn Van Kley. The pair continued their dominant run with a 6-0, 6-2 win against Macey Brant and Makayla Martin of

Leah Holland prepares to slam the ball back over the net as her doubles partner Kaitlyn Bjork looks on in the background during Monday’s regional action. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Clear Lake. Their semifinal match against No. 2 seeds Adria Neymeyer and Peyton Klooster from Aplington-Parkersburg was a rollercoaster. After dropping the first set 3-6, Bjork and Holland bounced back 6-3 in the second but narrowly lost the deciding set 4-6. In the thirdplace match, they rebounded with a strong 6-2, 6-4 win over Natalie Beck and Adyson Huisenga of Waverly-Shell Rock.

Top-seeded Olivia and Grace Huinker began their tournament with back-to-back 6-0, 6-0 wins over teams from Osage (Mylie Havig and Ella Sparrow) and Western Dubuque (Kendall Kotz and Audrey Recker).

In the semifinals, they faced Natalie Beck and Adyson Huisenga and played steady, aggressive tennis en route to a 6-2, 6-2 win, which ultimately secured their trip to the State Tournament. The final was a test of resilience against Adria Neymeyer and Peyton Klooster of Aplington-Parkersburg.

After winning the first set 6-4 and dropping the second by the same score, the Huinker sisters stormed ahead in the third. Up 5-1, they withstood a late push and closed out the match 6-3 to

Decorah’s Klaara Short reached the third-place singles match Monday but was forced to default due to a shoulder injury to teammate Jaidyn Duvel. (Photo by Becky Walz)

claim the title of regional doubles champions and qualify for state.

Dominance For the first time, the Vikings faced off against the Mason City Riverhawks, a member of the Alliance Conference. The Riverhawks follow a meet format featuring six varsity singles and five varsity doubles matches.

Decorah swept the varsity competition 11-0, with especially commanding performances from No. 1 Olivia Huinker and No. 3 Grace Huinker, who both won their matches 6-0, 6-0. The No. 4 doubles team of Addison Maki and Dylin Thompson also delivered a flawless victory, winning 6-0, 6-0.

Varsity match results Singles: No. 1 Olivia Huinker (Dec) won 6-0, 6-0 over Tamar Lewerke (MC); No. 2 Kaitlyn Bjork (Dec) won 6-2, 6-0 over Olivia Wickman (MC); No. 3 Grace Huinker (Dec) won 6-0, 6-0 over Lily Clausen (MC); No. 4 Leah Holland (Dec) won 6-1, 6-0 over Addison Dannen (MC); No. 5 Jaidyn Duvel (Dec) won 6-3, 6-0 over Estella Huesman (MC); No. 6 Klaara Short (Dec) won 6-3, 6-2 over Claire Sampson (MC) Doubles: O. Huinker/G. Huinker (Dec) won 6-2, 6-1 over Lewerke/ Wickman (MC); No. 2 Bjork/L. Holland (Dec) won 6-1, 6-2 over Clausen/Avery Fiser (MC); No. 3 Duvel/Camryn Holland (Dec) won 6-3, 6-3 over Dannen/Huesman (MC); No. 4 Addison Maki/Dylin Thompson (Dec) won 6-0, 6-0 over Tammy Nguyen/Ryleigh Penn (MC); No. 5 Myla Leitz (Dec)/Alynne Brandel (Dec) won 6-4, 6-3 over Sophia Muniz/Lily Geving (MC)

Coming up The Vikings will begin Class 1A Region 4 team play at 1 p.m.

Friday, May 12. After earning a first-round bye, they will face the winner of the 9 a.m. match between Osage and Western Dubuque. If Decorah advances, the Vikings will host the team semifinal and finals at 9 a.m.

Tuesday, May 20.

The individual and doubles state tournament will be held Friday and Saturday, May 3031 in Byrnes Park in Waterloo.

Decorah girls earn fifth at NEIC tourney

Things are heating up for the Decorah girls golf team as they came close to notching a win in the dual finale and finished fifth at the Northeast Iowa Conference tournament.

Shelby Hageman prepares to tee off at Cedar Ridge Golf Course during Monday’s conference meet. The Viking fashioned a 119 for the day. (Photo by Kelly Terpstra/New Hampton Tribune)

NEIC time The Northeast Iowa Conference girls teams hit the course one final time together Monday at Cedar Ridge Golf Course in Charles City.

New Hampton rode away with the team title with an 18hole total of 346. Crestwood finished second with 381, followed by Charles City’s 428.

Waukon (438) and Decorah (447) rounded out the league field.

Crestwood’s Ainsley Teeling and New Hampton’s Lauren Nuss were the co-medalists of the meet with 82s. Kristin Nuss of New Hampton was the runner-up with an 83.

Decorah put two linksters in

the top 15 for all-conference honors with Olivia Brynsaas finishing with a 105 in 12th place. Lulu Bellrichard carded a 106 in a three-way tie for 13th.

Drew Zwart fashioned a 117 while Shelby Hageman carved out a 119 to finish the Decorah tally. Others competing for the Vikes were Anna Knaack (125) and Riann Oberbroeckling (127).

Dual finale Thursday, the Lady Vikes hosted Caledonia Minnesota to end the regular season at one of their home courses — Oneota Golf and Country Club. The visiting Warriors defeated Decorah 189 to 224.

Delivering a team low score of 54 was Bellrichard. Hageman and Oberbroeckling delivered 56s with Zwart finishing the Viking scoring with a 58.

Smedsrud (60) and Knaack (67) also toured the course for the

Decorah varsity squad.

Regional Wednesday Decorah is in Class 3A and has just one regional meet standing in the way of competing at the state golf tournament.

The Vikings will be at Pin Oak Pub and Links in Manchester, vying for one of two coveted team spots and/or one of six individual tickets to state.

The Class 3A state tournament will take place at Saddleback Ridge in Solon Thursday and Friday, May 29-30.

Anna Knaack chips from the rough during Monday’s conference tournament. (Photo by Kelly Terpstra/New Hampton Tribune)

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SPORTS 16

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DECORAH LEADER

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THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025

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WWW.DECORAHLEADER.COM

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SPORTS EDITOR BECKY WALZ

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BECKY.WALZ@DECORAHLEADER.COM

Vikes win NEIC title with five all-conference linksters

The peak is coming at the right time for the Decorah boys golf team as it finished fourth at a tournament Saturday and won the Northeast Iowa Conference title Monday.

Jackson Naber chips the ball toward a pin during Monday’s NEIC meet in New Hampton and finished the day in 13th place with an 84 to earn conference honors. (Photo by Bob Fenske/New Hampton Tribune)

NEIC champs Hitting the links for league action Monday, the Vikings enjoyed one of the better days they have seen on the New Hampton Golf Course, winning the NEIC title. Decorah carved out a team total 305, well ahead of Charles City who was the runner-up with 319. Waukon finished third with 327 with New Hampton (333) and Crestwood (342) rounding out the NEIC field.

Not only did Decorah win the title, but it also had five golfers finish in the top 15 for all-conference honors, including the medalist and runner-up. Jacob Stevens toured the course for a 72, just ahead of teammate Tommy Sexton who carded a 73. Coming through with a 78 in seventh place was Jackson Pipho, while Carter Dlhy fashioned an 82 in 11th place to complete the scorecard. Jackson Naber also nabbed all-NEIC nod with an 84 in 13th place.

Two medalists On a road trip to Ames Saturday, the Vikings competed in the 18-hole Gilbert Invitational, finishing fourth in the tight race.

Decorah finished the day with a tally of 311, one stroke out of third place taken by North Polk.

Gilbert stroked a 295 to win its home tournament with Ballard firing a combined 299 for second. Also competing were Newton (315), Knoxville (316), Nevada (316), Winterset (326) and Boone (336).

Carving out a 73, Stevens took home third place on the par 67 course. Pipho was one

stroke back in a five-way tie for fourth. Firing 82s were Dlhy and Sexton to finish the Viking scorecard.

Others on the course for Decorah were Naber (86), Bradan Darling (92), Evan Roe (93) and Caden Hubka (96).

Postseason The Vikes were set to compete in a Class 3A sectional Wednesday (May 14) at the Gardner Golf and Country Club in Marion.

A win advances Decorah into the district competition at 10 a.m. Monday, May 19 at Pin

Oak Links in Manchester.

The Class 3A state tournament will be held at Pheasant Ridge Golf Course in Cedar Falls May Tuesday and Wednesday, May 27-28.

The top two overall individual players (plus ties) at each site from among the non-qualifying teams will advance from each sectional to district tournament.

Similarly, the top two overall individual players (plus ties) at each site from among the non-qualifying teams will advance from each district to the state tournament.

Decorah golfers securing the NEIC title Monday were (l-r) Carter Dlhy, Jackson Naber, Caden Hubka, Jacob Stevens, Tommy Sexton, Jackson Pipho with coach Casey Bouska. (Photo by Bob Fenske/New Hampton Tribune)

On full display, Decorah track teams win NEIC titles 1. Decorah 168; 2. Crestwood 80; 3. New Hampton 64; 4. Waukon 60; 5. Charles City 20 NEIC boys team scores 1. Decorah 144; 2. Crestwood 84; 3. Waukon 61; 4. New Hampton 51; 5. Charles City 50

It was a clean sweep for the Decorah girls and boys track and field teams last Thursday as the Vikings won both divisions of the Northeast Iowa Conference meet, held in Waukon.

Golden dozen The girls more than doubled second place Crestwood with 168 points to win the girls title. The Cadets ended the night with 80.

“Congratulations to all the Decorah girls who participated and cheered on their 20th consecutive conference championship,” said co-head coach Brad Johansen.

In all, the Vikes won a dozen titles, including a trio of field events.

Renae Wilson’s leap over the high jump bar at 4 feet, 10 inches landed her in first. Lauren Luzum took the shot put

title over her teammate Grace Tangen. Luzum sent the weight 41 feet, 6.5 inches while Tangen recorded a best throw of 39 feet, 11 inches. Tangen then had her chance at gold in the discus and took full advantage with a throw of 121 feet, 4 inches.

Decorah swept the individual sprint events with Stella Pole breaking the tape in both the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. Pole edged out teammate Audrey Essa in the shorter event with a time of 12.59 seconds. In the 400-meter dash it was senior McKenzie Riley posting the fastest time of 1:00.08 for gold. Wilson won her second title of the night in the 100-meter hurdles in 15.29 seconds.

Five relays also took the top spots. The night began with the sprint medley winning in 1:52.72. Members of the relay were Kelby Kerndt, Ella Stille, Cassandra Stammeyer and Riley. In the 4x800 relay, Lillian Olson, Olivia Volkmann, Raelyn Newhouse and Lauren Holthaus were the champions.

They had a time of 10:05.62.

Kerndt, Addisyn Ivy, Kennady

Starting the distance medley is Landon Quandahl who combined with Grant Remington, Trevor Kuennen and Thomas Hammel for second place. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Riehle and Wilson posted a time of 1:08.36 to be crowned the shuttle hurdle champions.

As the night wound down, the 4x100 relay of Ivy, Pole, Stammeyer and Essa broke the tape in 50.53 seconds before the 4x400 relay won gold. Riley, Wilson, Eden Northup and Pole put up the winning 4x400 relay time of 4:14.71.

Eight for the boys Putting up 144 points, the Viking boys bested Crestwood as well as the Cadets accumulated 84 points during the NEIC competition.

It was a clean sweep of the field events for Decorah, accounting for half of the Vikings titles.

Peyton Webb took the top spot in the high jump with clearance of 6 feet, 2 inches. In the long jump, Trevor Kuennen was the best of the field with a leap of 18 feet, 9 inches. William Hahn won a pair of titles, winning both throwing events.

In the shot put, the senior threw the weight 51 feet, 10.5 inches and sent the discus 140 feet, 10 inches.

Mitchell Stemper and Bennett Coppola went 1-2 in the 400-meter dash. Stemper broke the tape in 51.92 seconds with B. Coppola crossing the finish line in 53.37 seconds. Joshua Adam was the other lone individual to win a title. Adam took first in the 100-meter hurdles in 15.34 seconds.

Winning Viking relays included the 4x800 and 4x400. In the 4x800, Bill Fullhart, Grant Zilka, Garrett See and Stemper combined for a winning time of 8:08.44. In the final event of the night, Max Grimstad, Mason Avila, Kuennen and Stemper had the best time, winning the 4x400 relay in 3:32.11.

State-qualifying Thursday Decorah will host one of the eight Class 3A meets at 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 15. Running events will begin at 4:45 p.m.

The Vikes will compete against Center Point-Urbana, Charles City, Clear Lake, Hampton-Dumont-CAL, Independence,

NEIC titles

Continued on page 13

Vikings Stella Pole (left) and Audrey Essa finished 1-2 in the 100-meter dash at the Northeast Iowa Conference meet in Waukon Thursday. (Photo by Becky Walz)

LEFT: Addisyn Ivy traversed the 100-meter hurdles in 17.18 seconds Thursday to finish third at the NEIC meet in Waukon. ABOVE: Joshua Adam (left) and Peyton Webb battled to the 100-meter finish line. Adam edged Webb for third at the conference meet in Waukon. (Photos by Becky Walz)

Caleb Krieg is set to fire the ball back over the net in a recent home Viking match. Last week, Krieg shut out his Columbus opponent, winning 6-0, 6-0. (Photo by Becky Walz)

Decorah boys tennis finishes regular season undefeated On the court for the final time before beginning postseason action, the Class 1A No. 4 Decorah boys tennis team (13-0) wrapped up an undefeated dual match campaign with an 8-1 win over Columbus Catholic (11-6) Thursday.

The Vikes dominated the home courts for the win. In singles action at No. 2 Tristan Hunter defeated Fabio Hechler 6-4 and 6-1 with No. 3 Keaton Nalean-Carlson winning 7-6(70) over Bryce Noland. Elliot Berland topped Drew Schultz 6-3, 6-0 at No. 4 and Caleb Krieg shut out Rudy Lind at No. 5, winning in a pair of 6-0 sets. No. 6 player Aitor Cuevas picked up the win over Timothy Shockley 6-1 and 6-0.

Doubles teams went 3-0 as well with Liam Chamberlain and K. Nalean-Carlson winning over Parker Stroh and Hechler at No. 1. The No. 2 team of Berland and Hunter and No. 3 duo

of Cuevas and Krieg also won.

Rolling to postseason The Vikings began the road to state Wednesday (May 14) as the host to one of the Class 1A District singles and doubles tournament. The top two individuals and doubles teams will advance to state Tuesday and Wednesday, May 27-28 at Byrnes Park in Waterloo.

The team tournament begins at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 17, at the Luther College tennis courts, against Hampton-Dumont-CAL. A win advances Decorah into the substate semifinal at 12 p.m. against the winner of the Clear Lake and Aplington-Parkersburg dual. If the Vikings win, they will play in the substate final at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, for a chance to compete at state.

The state tournament will be held June 3-4 in Iowa City.

Sophomore Elliot Berland tracks down the ball near the back of the court during a previous home meet for Decorah. (Photo by Becky Walz)