January 11, 2024

Thursday, January 11, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 2

Decorah, Iowa 52101 www.decorahnewspapers.com

One Section

Price One Dollar

email: news@decorahnewspapers.com

phone: 563-382-4221

fax: 563-382-5949

Helen Johnson performs during a recent show in Decorah. (Driftless Multimedia photo

by Zach Jensen)

Introducing the New Nordic Dancers A select group of Decorah third graders make up the new junior Nordic Dancers. Auditions were held last fall. The junior group will dance together over the next 10 years. Pictured at their first practice in the Decorah Middle School Gym recently are, front row from left: Evelyn Albertson, Isabella Gipp, Ani Anderson, Valentina Munoz Campos, Kinley Young, Cannyn Ewing and Ruby Courtney; second row from left: Austyn Souza, Wrenn Nikkel, Charlotte Harman, Brynn Van Gerpen, Olivia Hunt, Andie Marso, Tessa Bril, Virginia Tangen and Georgia Goulson; third row from left: Flint Mastny, Ezra Kinson, Keaton Carlson, Harry Gjerde, Beckam Wicks, Issac Salgado, Jace Tollefsrud and Jackson Tollefsrud; and back row from left: Daxton VanGundy, Cash Vercande, Felipe Barranco-Hernandez, Brendan Torkelson, Aiden Vang, Louis Weber, Brogan Barnes and Jack Schroeher. Directors are Jenna Mockler-Gjerde, Kasey Nikkel, Ryan Torkelson, Gwen Van Gerpen and Carrie Weber. The group will join the new group of senior dancers and orchestra as community ambassadors in the coming years. They share Scandinavian culture and history during Nordic Fest and throughout the country in their tenure as dancers.

(Driftless Multimedia photo by Roz Weis)

ing and explained the long history of the leaky roof. He said a more extensive temporary repair was completed about eight years ago at a cost of approximately $88,000, but the Armor Life roof continues to leak.

When asked by board member Carole Sand if continued on page 3

continued on page 7

376 area residents sign petition to halt county sale

By Zach Jensen

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers Freeport resident Christine Kolarsky addressing the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors during the public hearing, held the morning of Jan. 8, regarding the proposed sale of a piece of property regarded as a “flood buffer zone”. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Zach Jensen) specific instructions to include language restricting a future use of the parcel for a solar field only — with native vegetation plantings left in place.

The full board also indicated that the draft resolution would then be discussed and voted upon in the next official meeting on Dec. 11.

“The resolution presented and voted upon on the eleventh, however, did not include the previ-

ously-approved language for such restrictions,” Lee continued. “The supervisors, Faldet and Vermace, questioned why this occurred during the meeting, and the following meeting, on

Freeport property continued on page 7

Decorah Middle School roof repairs considered

By Roz Weis

Decorah Community School District (DCSD) board members are dealing with a leaky roof.

DCSD Superintendent Tim Cronin informed the board that the roof on the 17-year-old Decorah Middle School has leaked for 16 ½ of those years. Original roofing contractors attempted temporary repairs over the years, but those efforts

By Zach Jensen

Decorah native Helen Johnson has been musical all her life, and in the fall of 2023, she celebrated the release of her first EP containing five songs for which she’s written all the music and lyrics.

“I named the EP ‘Confessions of a Girl in Love’, because that’s what it is: Five songs that are essentially confessionals about my love life,” said the 24-year-old Decorah High School alumna. “They are all about my real life, and I liked the name ‘Confessions’, because most of “I always say them were written at a I’d rather be time when the things I was writing in my blind than songs were things I deaf because couldn’t actually say to those people in real I couldn’t live life. So, I was confesswithout ing my feelings via my songs instead. The music.” songs are also ordered very intentionally, so if -Helen Johnson you listen to the EP in order, it tells a story.”

Johnson, daughter of Andy and Emily Young Johnson of rural Decorah, said music has always been an essential part of her life. Growing up, she remembers her parents listening to the Wailin’ Jennys, Greg Brown and Peter, Paul and Mary.

And, when she wasn’t listening to music, Helen’s mother sang to Helen and her sisters, and Helen began taking piano lessons at age five.

“Music is one of the most important things in my life,” said Helen, who majored in political science, music performance and Hispanic studies at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. “I always say I’d rather be blind than deaf because I couldn’t live without music. Music can make people feel less alone, connect total strangers, bring joy, be a release for stress and emotions, the list goes on. When I hear a song that perfectly articulates exactly how I feel, it heals something about that feeling and makes me feel less alone, because someone else out there has felt that exact same thing. I want to make songs that connect to other people like that. Music provides people with a community, too. I have met some of my favorite people through choir, musical theater and other music related activities. And you can connect with total strangers over loving the same music.”

Around age nine or 10, Helen began teaching herself how to play the guitar, and she recalled that was a bit of challenge, because her hand didn’t fit around the instrument’s neck, so initially, she learned some chords incorrectly.

“I started teaching myself to play guitar by

Following public hearing, supervisors unanimously vote to reject bids on Freeport property The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors made an unexpected change of course during its regular meeting Monday, Jan. 8, regarding the Freeport property it had previously put up for bid. Following a public hearing on the matter, the supervisors unanimously voted to reject the two bids it received for purchase of the land and restart discussion of the matter at the next meeting.

During the public hearing, several Freeport and Decorah residents made cases against the sale of the land, including a complaint filed with the Iowa Public Information Board and the possibility that the land may contain a native burial site.

Additionally, multiple Freeport residents shared their concerns that the sale of the land would reduce flood mitigation and increase the likelihood that their homes could be severely damaged by future floods.

“During the regular-scheduled Dec. 4, 2023, Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors meeting, the proposed sale of land was discussed,” said Freeport resident Kevin Lee at the start of the public hearing. “At that meeting, all five supervisors approved directing County Attorney Andrew Van Der Maten to draft an initial resolution for the proposed sale of the Freeport parcel in question, with

Johnson follows her dreams, releases first EP of music career

have been exhausted.

After considerable debate at Monday’s School Board meeting, Cronin was instructed to reach out for bids from architectural or engineering firms for cost of replacing the existing roof. Cost estimates are between $800,000 and $1 million, according to Cronin.

Greg Schaller, director of building and grounds for the district, attended Monday night’s meet-

School board

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com

Johnson EP

2 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, January 11, 2024

Decorah Elementary first graders share holiday songs with residents at Aase Haugen. (submitted photo)

Decorah elementary students spread holiday cheer Throughout December, Decorah elementary students shared holiday cheer around the community. Transitional kindergarten (TK) through fourth grade students created holiday cards and decorations for residents at local nursing homes and shared holiday songs during a visit.

Several of the third-grade classes recently participated in “Holidays with Heroes” where

they visited our local heroes from the police station, sheriff’s department, fire station and city hall and shared holiday songs and cookies.

“Our educators work hard throughout the year to teach, model, practice and promote Viking Pride, which is all about being respectful, responsible and safe at school, at home and throughout the community,”

said Facilitator of Social Emotional Behavioral Health and Family and Community Partnerships Shanna Putnam Dibble. “These community service experiences are a great example of what Viking pride is all about — being respectful and sharing kindness and love while serving our community.”

Fraud and scam prevention presentation at Senior Citizen Hospitality Center Friday Con artists target people age 60 and older — swindling more than seven million Americans out of almost $3 billion each year. Roger Huinker, a Northeast RSVP Volunteer trained by the Iowa Insurance Division, will present the “Iowa Fraud

Fighters” seminar Friday, Jan. 12, at 1:30 p.m., at the Decorah Senior Citizen Hospitality Center located at 806 River Street in Decorah. Huinker will be joined by local law enforcement, Wright Way Computers staff, and/or local bank employ-

NEW MINOWA PLAYERS PRESENTS

JAN. 18, 19, 20, 26 & 27 at 7:00 p.m.

JAN. 21 & 27 at 2:00 p.m.

at NMP Theatre, 906 S. Mill St., Decorah Directed by Sheryl Scheffert

Book and additional lyrics by Nick Blaemire Music adaptation and vocal arrangement by Madeline Smith Music and orchestration by Matthew Tishler

TICKETS Adults $15, 12 & Under $5 Tickets are available at the Oneota Co-op and online at https://newminowaplayers.ludus.com/

Produced by arrangement with Music Theatre International.

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by Copyland, Decorah Bank & Trust, Family Table Restaurant, Gallery of Tops, Iroc Web Design Services, Pizza Ranch, Rockweiler Appliance & TV, Karen Esterl, Mette Hammer and Sam Townswick, Rick and Sheryl Scheffert, JoAn Stevenson and Steven Nelson, and Singing Hammers Construction.

Boy Scout service project

Decorah Boy Scout Troop 66 gathered up Christmas trees during the annual curbside tree pick-up service project Saturday. Pictured, from left, are Jonathan Crose, Scoutmaster Jeremy Smith and Domenik Smith. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Roz Weis)

Wilkerson to host Milky Way presentation at Luther College Women’s Club January meeting

ees.

The hour-long seminar teaches consumers how to shield their savings from scammers and fraudulent investment offers. Presenters will share tips on recognizing the different ways people are scammed, how to report fraud and share stories of people who have lost their life savings to fraud or scams.

Iowa Fraud Fighter seminars are being presented by Northeast Iowa RSVP volunteers with assistance from local sponsors.

Northeast Iowa RSVP matches volunteers age 55 and better with opportunities to serve at non-profits in Allamakee, Howard and Winneshiek counties.

Any business or organization that would like to host a Fraud Fighters seminar can contact Deana Hageman at 563-2775181 or rsvp@decorahlibrary. org.

Jeff Wilkerson, Luther professor of physics, will explore the Milky Way at the next meeting of the Luther College Women’s Club, to be held Jan. 16, at 1:30 p.m., in Valders Hall of Science and Sampson Hoffland Laboratories, Luther College campus.

Attendees should gather in the Emil Miller Planetarium on the first floor of Valders Hall of Science between 1:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. The program will start promptly at 1:30 p.m.

In his presentation, At Home

in the Milky Way: A Planetarium Presentation, Wilkerson will use the planetarium to explore how stars live their lives in the discs of spiral galaxies like the Milky Way, creating the materials and generating the processes that will form the next generation of stars.

Shuttle service from the Decorah Swimming Pool is available and will leave at 1:10 p.m.

In addition to the program, a short business meeting with refreshments will be held in the Sampson Hoffland Atrium.

For more than 60 years, the Luther College Women’s Club has baked treats for Luther students, with all proceeds raised funding scholarships for deserving students. To date, the club has raised more than $325,000 in scholarship funds.

All women from Decorah and surrounding communities are invited to participate.

To join the LCWC and/or learn more about the group, visit luther.edu/alumni-friends/ engage/stay-connected/womans-club.

Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, invites preschoolers and their caregivers to a birthday party during Barnetimen Children’s Hour on Tuesday, Jan. 16, at 10 a.m.

Meet in the lobby of the museum’s Main Building to learn about Norwegian birthday tra-

ditions through exploration, song, and play before enjoying a birthday-themed snack.

Barnetimen programs are free and geared toward 3-to-5year-olds, but all ages are welcome. New programs are offered in person at the museum the third Tuesday of the month September through April, from

10 to 11 a.m.

No reservations are needed, but larger groups of 10 or more are asked to contact the museum the day before the program to help with planning. For more information, contact Vesterheim Collection Manager Jennifer Kovarik at 563-382-9681 or jkovarik@vesterheim.org.

Barnetimen Children’s Hour celebrates birthday traditions

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Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, January 11, 2024 3

Decorah Council talks permits, board appointments

By Denise Lana To kick off 2024, the Decorah City Council met Tuesday, Jan. 2, to handle board appointments and discuss building permits, at length.

City staff submitted increases for building permit applications and zoning permits, a late fee of $25 and a re-inspection fee of $25, stemming from a number of routine “no-call, no-shows” when the city’s code enforcement official goes out to a property and no one is there. The fees would also serve as a deterrent for property owners who are habitually late for filling out applications.

After lengthy debate – including the option of raising rates incrementally each year, concerns with building permits being based on actual costs (not automatic increases), and building valuations versus cost – the council ultimately tabled the discussion as it was found there was not enough information available to render a cohesive and educated decision regarding the resolution. Discussion will resume at the next meeting when more facts and information are available.

Rear yard building size increase The council unanimously passed the second reading, waived the third reading and adopted an ordinance increasing rear yard accessory building size from 500 ft. to 700 ft.

This increase is mainly focused on houses located on corner lots where the “rear yard” measurement previously limited the size of accessory buildings. The Planning and Zoning Board previously reviewed and approved this ordinance.

Police sign-on bonus Decorah Police Department has a sign-on bonus for certified officers of $10,000, and due to budgetary concerns, the bonus was proposed to be lessened to $7,500, a rate comparable to other departments. Remaining

the same is the prorated repayment schedule of five years if the employee leaves, and the only change would be to the final disbursement at one year being $2,500 instead of the previous $5,000. This sign-on bonus decrease was approved unanimously by council.

Appointments/ designations • Scott Timm and Tina Hall were reappointed to the Tree Board.

• Sandhye Puroit Caton was reappointed to the Human Rights Commission.

• Jeff Clement was appointed as Decorah Fire Chief, Mike Ashbacher was appointed Assistant Fire Chief and Kyle Kohls was appointed Second Assistant Fire Chief.

• Driftless Multimedia was approved as the city’s official newspaper.

Other business • Unanimously approved by the council was a Professional Services Agreement with WHKS, who provides engineering, planning and surveying business, for Decorah’s 2024 bridge inspections. The agreement is to complete the city’s required biannual bridge inspections and forward the results to the Department of Transportation.

• A resolution regarding amending building permit fees put forth by the Sustainability Commission and city staff was tabled. The Sustainability Commission previously voted to recommend changing the solar permit application, which was valuation-based, to a flat $75 application fee for residential.

According to City Manager Travis Goedken, the vote would leave the value base, but cap the application fee at $500 for commercial projects with solar.

• Budget preparation with Goedken and City Clerk Keri Sand is on the calendar and will be presented to the council in the very near future.

City Yard Waste Site closing for the season Jan. 12 The City of Decorah has announced that the City’s Yard Waste Site will be closed for the season on Friday, Jan. 12. Once the site is closed, keys will no longer be available to check out from City Hall. The site will re-open in the spring as soon as weather permits. Call City Hall at 563-382-3651 with any questions.

School board the board could reach out to the original roofing contractor for any type of monetary compensation for the leaky roof, Cronin said the time frame for seeking damages has passed. He said one district had attempted litigation toward the company without success.

Cronin will return with roofing estimates at the next scheduled meeting, Monday, Feb. 12.

PPEL funds (Physical Plant and Equipment Levy) will be used for the new roof.

Other business In other business Monday night, board members set a public hearing for the proposed 2024-25 school calendar. The hearing will be Monday, Feb. 12, at 6:30 p.m. The preliminary calendar lists the first day of school as Friday, Aug. 23, 2024, and the last day of school as Monday, May 20, 2025.

The board accepted a new agreement for a consortium to jointly administer the instructional program at the Crossroads site in Decorah. The agreement is reviewed every two years, and this year’s revised agreement includes Clayton Ridge and Oelwein among the participating schools utilizing Crossroads Academy services. DCSD is the fiscal agent

continued from front for the Crossroads Academy in the district.

District Director of Nutrition Services Chad Elliott was thanked for his work obtaining a grant for a new Alto Shaam Combi Gas oven, which will be ordered in the coming weeks.

The price tag for the oven is an estimated $40,000.

Board members also approved adding to the district’s vehicle fleet, with the purchase of a 2024 Ford 10-passenger van from KAR Auto Group for $55,270 and a 2024 Chevrolet Malibu from Decorah Chevrolet/Chrysler for an estimated $26,195. A discussion on electric or hybrid vehicles also was held, with board members agreeing to hold off on such purchases until a time when the district has more vehicle charging stations and capabilities.

Finally, the board learned that the district is following the lead of other schools in state by placing some books back onto shelves after a U.S. District Judge handed down a ruling blocking an Iowa law banning some books in Iowa school libraries. The ruling came down on Dec. 29, and the judge stated a portion of the Iowa law in Senate File 496 was “incredibly, widely broad”.

Obituaries John Emery John Robert Emery, 60 of Babbitt, Minn., passed away at St. Mary’s in Duluth, Minn., on Dec. 31, 2023.

John was born Oct. 1, 1963, to Arland and Annette (Trimbell) Emery in Caledonia, Minn. He was John Emery the youngest of nine children and grew up in Burr Oak. In his early years he worked with his father and brother for Emery Construction in Iowa.

John was united in marriage to Carol Bjork on July 2, 1983, at the Burr Oak Lutheran Church. This union was blessed with three children: Tanaya, Taryn and Theodore. He was later blessed again with four grandchildren: Liliana, Evie, Violet and Jasper, and was lovingly referred to as “Papa John”.

John retired after 30 years of working for Hormel Foods in Austin, Minn. After his retirement, he and Carol moved to Babbitt in 2016 where they were able to spend more time with family and friends enjoying the outdoors.

John loved everything about the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing while referring to his most beloved spots as “God’s country”. John was a very charismatic person and always left you feeling that he was so happy to have gotten to see you. John always had a twinkle of mischief in his eye and a smile on his face. He had the gift of gab; he could turn any conversation into a captivating story.

Joseph Spalla

Joseph Spalla, 79, of Spillville died on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, at Accura Healthcare in Cresco.

Joe was born on May 22, 1944, to Joseph and Lydia (Novak) Spalla in Decorah.

He grew up on a farm Joseph Spalla near Ridgeway. He attended St. Wenceslaus School and boarded there. He graduated from Rudolphinum High School in Protivin in 1963. Following graduation, he continued working on the family farm as a dedicated farmer, dairyman and hog producer.

He loved hunting, fishing and was a steward of the land, practicing conservation, building ponds, waterways, terraces and wind breaks. He experimented with unusual crops for the area, such as buckwheat, sorghum and sunflowers. Joe designed and built his own header for harvesting sunflowers. His accomplishments were recognized on the front page of the Des Moines Register.

Church was in the forefront of his life. He was a lifelong member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church where he was a member of the choir and the

John is survived by his wife, Carol, of 40 years; children: Tanaya (Mike Hagen and Evie, Violet and Jasper Hagen) of Austin, Taryn Emery (Liliana Ramirez) of Des Moines, and Theodore Emery of Austin.

John is also survived by seven sisters and one brother: Julie (Jerry) Reckward of Decorah, Trudy (Scott) Barnes of Calmar, Marsha (Tom) Whalen of Preston, Minn., Steven (Laurie) Emery of Highlandville, Arletta (Wayne) Tweten of Cresco, Debbie (Larry) Cook, Becky (Edward) Lyon, and Sandra Mitchell (Greg O’Brien) all of Decorah; his father and motherin-law, Joseph and Janet Bjork of Babbitt; three brothers-in-law and two sisters-in-law: Kermit (Kari) Bjork of Blaine, Minn., Barbara (Larry) Tanttari of Northfield, Minn., Brian Bjork of Embarrass, Minn., Katherine Schultz (Brian Helf) of Aurora, Minn., and Carl Bjork (Alanna Novak) of Babbitt; along with many nieces, nephews and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arland and Annette Emery.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Babbitt, Minn., at Birch Lake Beach in the Log Pavilion on June 1, with a luncheon at 1 p.m. Bring a pole and try your luck at John’s favorite fishing hole.

Additionally, a Celebration of Life will be held in Burr Oak at John’s childhood family home (3504 North Winn Rd., Decorah) on June 22, with a 1 p.m. luncheon. Bring a chair and story to share.

Catholic Workmen. He was very proud of the playground his committee built for the school and the restoration of the convent through the St. Wenceslaus Heritage Society.

Joe is survived by his siblings: Gary (Linda) Spalla, Mason City, Tom (Nan) Spalla, Dubuque, Julie Spalla, and Karen (Tracy) Gustafson, Blue Earth, Minn.; nieces: Jennifer (Todd) Alexander, Sarah Spalla and Carolyn (Chad) Miller; and nephews: Mike (DeAnne) Spalla and Colby Gustafson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Lydia (Novak) Spalla, and brother, Wayne Spalla.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, at 11 a.m., at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Spillville.

Burial will be in the church cemetery with Father Henry Huber presiding.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m., until the time of the service at the church Monday morning.

In lieu of flowers, consider donations to Accura Healthcare, Howard County Hospice, Winneshiek County Soil & Water Conservation and St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church.

The Helms Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

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Rosalyn Lucas

Rosalyn “Rosie” “Toots” Baumler Lucas, 89, passed peacefully at Evans Memorial Home in Cresco, on Jan. 2, 2024.

Rosie was born April 8, 1934, to Vincent Baumler and Ellen (Gager) Baumler Ste- Rosalyn Lucas vens near St. Lucas.

On Oct. 22, 1955, she married the love of her life, William “Bill” Lucas in Preston, Minn.

Together they raised three children in Cresco where they lived. Rosie lost her husband Bill in 1984.

Rosie was a strong independent woman who took care of so many around her. She loved birds, especially hummingbirds.

She loved when Bert would take her to play BINGO! She along with her brother Charlie shared a love for the game show “Jeopardy”. She was Alex Trebek’s biggest fan. Rosie enjoyed going for rides in the car with her son, Allen. It didn’t matter where they went; she just liked the change of scenery. She truly loved having friends come to visit. Her best friend would come to share a glass of wine

Marlys Falck

Marlys Ruby (Norman) Falck, 91, of Chester, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, at Colonial Manor of Elma.

Marlys was born Jan. 26, 1932, at home in Hampton to Albert and Caroline (Heins) Norman. In 1941, Marlys Falck the family moved to a farm near Riceville. Marlys graduated from Riceville High School in 1950. After graduation, she worked in Cresco.

Marlys was united in marriage to Howard Falck on Feb. 26, 1952, at Riceville Lutheran Church in Riceville. The couple were married for more than 71 years. They lived in California while Howard served in the Marines. In February 1954, they moved to Chester where they raised their three sons and one daughter. Once moved to Chester, Marlys worked at LeRoy Products in LeRoy, Minn.

Howard and Marlys were members of the Chester United Lutheran Church in Chester.

Marlys loved to garden and had lots of flowers throughout the yard. She loved quilting, crocheting and sewing, as well as canning and baking — always making sure to have the cookie jars stocked for family visitors. She enjoyed playing cards, such as 500 and Euchre, and belonged to a card club.

Marlys is survived by her children: Michael (Patrice) of Amery, Wis., Duane (Lynette) of Decorah, Derwin of Hart,

and just visit about life and everything in between. Those are the moments that really meant the world to her. As she could brag about her family and how proud she was of them.

Rosie is survived by her two sons: William Lynn “Bert” Lucas and Allen (Julie) Lucas both of Cresco; daughter, Julie (James) Lorenzen of Jefferson; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; sister, Waneta (Keith) Gage of Oelwein; brother, Richard (Sarah) Baumler of Warner Robins, Ga.; brother-in-law, Ed Gage of Wadena; sister-in-law, Patricia Baumler of Wadena; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William “Bill” Lucas; her beloved granddaughter, Ashely Nichole Lucas; siblings: Eleanor (Edwin) Molokken, Robert “Dewey” (Winifred) Baumler, Virginia Gage and Charles “Charlie” Baumler.

Visitation was held Sunday, Jan. 7, at Lindstrom Funeral Home in Cresco. Burial was in the New Oregon Cemetery in rural Cresco.

Lindstrom Funeral Home handled arrangements for the family.

Minn., and Diane (Mark) Ihde of West Union; 10 grandchildren: Teresa (Jeff) Phillips, Jason Ihde, Jill (Mike) Kerian, Shayna (Eric) Boe, Stacey (Dan) Praska, Jeremiah (Ashlee) Falck, Shawn (Katreena) Ihde, Samantha (Justin) Hughes, Alyx (Neil) Nabholz and Samuel (Molly) Ihde; and 18 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Joan Menken, of Charles City; and sisters-in-law: Evelyn Schnitzler of Decorah, Norma Albertson of Calmar, and Janice Broghammer of Decorah; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard, on Aug. 11, 2023; parents, Albert and Caroline Norman; parents-inlaw, Fred and Verna Falck; siblings and in-laws, Cliff (Paula) Norman, Marcella (Al) Ficken, Lucille (Merle) Duenow, Phyllis (Leonard) Robinson, Alberta (Floyd) Friedrich, Jim Menken, Janice Stevenson, John Schnitzler, Louis Albertson, Vernon (Maxine) Falck, Alice (Stanley) Kurash, Jack Broghammer and Linda (Galen) Huhe.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Marlys and her late husband, Howard, will be held Saturday, Jan. 13, at 11 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10 a.m., at the St. Paul’s Maple Leaf Lutheran Church in rural Elma.

Burial will be held at a later date at Chester Hill Cemetery near Chester.

In honor of Howard and Marlys, monetary donations to St. Croix Hospice would be appreciated in lieu of flowers.

u o Y k n a h T The Carl Svenson family:

Victoria, Beth, Nic and Pat would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mike Ashbacher, the Decorah Fire Department Chief, and to all the members of the Decorah Fire Department for their caring, compassion and support following the loss of Carl.

Further, we would like to extend our gratitude to the community of family and friends and the fire departments throughout the State of Iowa.

4 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, January 11, 2024

Obituaries Mary Lou Uhlenhake Mary Lou (Schmitz) Uhlenhake, 89, of Ossian, died Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, at the Ossian Senior Hospice in Ossian.

Mary Louise Schmitz was born Feb. 12, 1934, in Postville, the daughter of Mary Lou Philip Allen Uhlenhake and Marguerite Louise (Lansing) Schmitz.

Mary Lou’s mother died when she was two months old, and she was raised by her Grandma Mabel (Allen) and Grandpa Frank Schmitz until she was 11 years old. She then moved to town to live with Philip and Florence Schmitz and her siblings Kenny, Karl and Karen.

Mary Lou received her education at De Sales Catholic School in Ossian, graduating with the class of 1952. While in high school she excelled with the saxophone in music and was an outstanding guard in basketball. Ivan Uhlenhake caught Mary Lou’s attention, with a whistle and a twinkle in his eye, the first time she wore a poodle skirt to school. She continued her education at Mt. Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, for a period of time, until she was called home to care for her Grandma Mabel. Mary Lou then worked at the Northwestern Bell Telephone Office in Decorah.

Mary Lou was united in marriage to Ivan William Uhlenhake on Sept. 1, 1954, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church by the late Rev. E.J. Frost. They moved to the Uhlenhake family farm, three miles southeast of Ossian, in March 1956, where they raised their family of seven

William Reichow

William “Bill” Lawrence Reichow, 94, of Monmouth, Ill., passed away peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, at the Monmouth Nursing Home surrounded by his loving family.

Bill was William born on May Reichow 19, 1929, in Northfield, Minn., to Lawrence and Dorothy (Boyd) Reichow.

He was raised in Decorah, then attended the University of Iowa. Bill honorably served the U.S. Army 11th Airborne Paratroopers from Dec. 11, 1950, until Dec. 18, 1953, earning the rank of Sergeant First Class. He then returned to the University of Iowa where he played football for Forest Evashevski and studied physical education and coaching. It was in Iowa City where he met the love of his life, Marcia K. Larson. They married on June 12, 1955, and continued their life in Iowa City, while they started their family and Bill earned his master’s degree. In 1958, they moved to Albia, Iowa, where he began his coaching and teaching career. In 1965 they moved to Monmouth where they built a life for the next 59 years raising their four daughters. Through-

Alice Scheidel

children whom she was always very proud of.

Mary Lou was a hardworking farm wife, doing chores, raising chickens, mowing lawn and always planted a huge garden to feed her growing family. She was well known for her homemade apple pie and banana bread. Anyone who stopped at her home never left unfed and for her, it was how she showed her love. Mary Lou enjoyed listening to music, dancing, traveling with Ivan, playing bingo, playing cards in the Crazy Eight Card Club, reminiscing, embroidery, cross stitch, sending comical greeting cards to family and friends and using the Grandpad to communicate, to play games and to view family photos.

Mary Lou was a lifelong member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and was past president of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court #983. She was past president of the Rosary Society and oversaw the creating of the De Sales Cookbook. Mary Lou was a member of The ARC (People of Intellectual and Developmental Challenges) and had volunteered with Special Olympics. She was past president of the Winneshiek County Porkettes and was a member of the Ossian Crown Club. Mary Lou also quilted at the Ossian Senior Hospice, making quilts that were donated to the missions, families in need and the Veterans. Mary Lou poured her heart into any project she was involved with.

She was so proud of her Schmitz heritage, her hometown of Ossian and was a strong advocate for supporting the local businesses. Her passion,

generosity and spirit to support her church and local community will be missed.

Mary Lou is survived by her seven children: Kurt (JoAnn) Uhlenhake of Ossian, Karla Uhlenhake of Racine, Wis., Layne Uhlenhake of Beaver Dam, Wis., Laurie (Tim) Thompson of Calmar, Jay (Margaret) Uhlenhake of Lawler, Jeff Uhlenhake of Ossian and Aric Uhlenhake of Decorah; nine grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law; and many nieces, nephews cousins.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ivan. on Jan.1, 1999; mother, Marguerite; father, Philip (Florence) Schmitz; two brothers: Kenneth Schmitz and Karl Schmitz, Sr.; sister, Karen (Jack) Hemesath; sister-in-law, Esther and her first husband, Raphael Moeller, and her second husband, Glen Stewart.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, Jan. 12, at 11 a.m., at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Ossian with Rev. Henry P. Huber officiating.

Visitation will be held Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m., and Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., at the Schmitz-Grau Funeral Home in Ossian. Also on Thursday, a C.D.A. Rosary will be held at 3 p.m., and a Parish Scripture Service at 7 p.m., at the funeral home. Interment will be at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Cemetery in Ossian.

Paul Schmitz, nephew, with the Jamison-Schmitz Funeral Home in Oelwein is assisting the family.

View the online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com.

out his 15-year storied coaching career at Monmouth College his success coaching football, wrestling and golf, impacting the lives of numerous young men and woman who still admire him to this day. During his coaching dynasty at Monmouth College, the Fighting Scots Football Team had a record of 78-31-2, three Midwest Conference Champions and one undefeated season. Additionally, he coached many successful wrestling and golf teams, and his golfers won four MWC titles in a five-year span. He was affectionately known by his players as “Moose”.

Following his coaching career, he stepped into the world of agriculture as an independent Dekalb Seed dealer until his retirement. As a respected member of the Monmouth Community, Bill served on the Warren County Board, having been first elected in 1998 and serving as chairman for 28 years. Bill was an anchor for his family, Monmouth College, the Monmouth community, Warren County, and the agricultural community.

He was an advocate for economic development, the Highway 34 Coalition, and served on numerous boards in Western Illinois. Bill was a faith filled member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where he served as one of the

first Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Bill prided himself in supporting his family in all of their athletic endeavors and was their biggest coach and cheerleader. As an avid Hawkeye fan and football season tickets holder, Bill and Marcia supported their alma mater for many years. Fishing, hunting and golfing were among Bill’s favorite hobbies, especially the annual Canadian fishing trips with family. As a lifelong coach and teacher, he never passed up the opportunity to help others grow and learn. We can still hear him asking, “When you gettin’ in shape?” or reminding his grandchildren to “Keep your eye on the ball”.

Survivors include his beloved Catherine Hageman, 84, of wife, Marcia; three children: Julie (Steve) Graves, Jackie Flater Calmar, passed away on Friday, and Jan (Trent) Griffith; nine Jan. 5, 2024, at Ossian Senior grandchildren: Sam (Daphne) Hospice surGraves, Tricia Graves, Lauren rounded by (Tom) Tucker, Jenna (Matt) her family.

Cathy was Gallup, Jacob Flater, Claire (Zach McCrery) Griffith, Paige born on Feb. 1939, Griffith, Luke Griffith and Will 13, Griffith; seven great-grand- at home in to children; numerous nieces and Lourdes nephews; and one brother, Jerry John and MilCatherine dred Flaherty.

(Carolyn) Reichow.

Hageman He was preceded in death by She attended his parents, Larry and Dorothy Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Reichow; his daughter, Joanie school through eighth grade and Reichow; and his sister, Joan then attended at Cresco High School.

(Reichow) Frantz.

Following her high school Bill will be missed dearly by graduation Cathy and her close his family and community.

A Mass of Christian Burial friend ventured to Waterloo and will be held Friday, Jan. 12, at gained office positions at Rath 10:30 a.m., at Immaculate Con- Packing Company. While on a (USPS# 151-000) trip LLC, back110 home for the weekend ception Church inbyMonmouth. is published weekly Driftless Multimedia Washington Street, Cathy metpaid Ronald Hageman at Suite 4,service Decorah,will IA 52101.

Periodicals postage at Decorah, IA. A rosary be prior Send address changes to Driftless LLC, Matter’s Ball Multimedia Room, the man toPOSTMASTER: the Mass atP.O. 10 Box a.m., at the 350, Decorah, Iowa 52101-0350. church. A private family Inter- who would become her husband ment will be in St. Mary’s Cath- and lifelong partner. Cathy and olic Cemetery, Monmouth. Vis- Ron married on Oct. 20, 1959.

In 1961, they purchased a itation will be Thursday, Jan. 11, from 4 to 8 p.m., at Mc- farm outside of Calmar where Guire & Davies Funeral Home they would raise their family Phone: 563-382-4221 and live their entire lives. Cathy and Crematory in Monmouth.

Subscription Rates ....................... One Year ...................... Six Months and Ron welcomed four chilMemorials may be given to Decorah Trade Areas ..................... $57.00 ..............................$35.00 dren: Rick, Lori, Lisa and Jenthe Elsewhere University of Iowa Stead $70.00 ....................................... ..............................$42.00 ny.

Cathy was a devoted wife Family Children’s Hospital or Single copies $1.00, mailed $3.00. Official publication for Decorah and andpostage mother, doingIowa. all houseWinneshiek County, Iowa.

Periodicals at Decorah, Immaculate Conception School hold duties and tasks to ensure Gymnasium Driftless Reconstruction Multimedia LLC DEADLINE POLICY p.m. Monday. both the 4children and the men Fund. Decorah Public Opinion display advertising: Real estate, classified, entertainment and farming were well taken care For more information or toadvertising: Driftless Journal display 4 p.m. Thursday. of.Friday Sheand enjoyed keeping a tidy leave an online condolence, News, submissions: 12 Noon Tuesday.

Publisher reserves right to reject or cancel any meticulously advertisement atclean any time. yard, home, visit www.mcguireanddaviesand neat appearance. Cathy was funeralhome.com.

Decorah Public Opinion

(USPS# 151-000) is published weekly by Driftless Multimedia LLC, 110 Washington Street, Suite 4, Decorah, IA 52101. Periodicals postage paid at Decorah, IA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Driftless Multimedia LLC, P.O. Box 350, Decorah, Iowa 52101-0350.

News: news@decorahnewspapers.com Advertising: megan.warner@driftlessjournal.com Kate Klimesh, Editor-in-Chief: kate.klimesh@driftlessjournal.com Phone: 563-382-4221 Subscription Rates ....................... One Year ...................... Six Months Decorah Trade Areas ..................... $57.00 ..............................$35.00 Elsewhere. ...................................... $70.00 ..............................$42.00 Single copies $1.00, mailed $3.00. Official publication for Decorah and Winneshiek County, Iowa. Periodicals postage at Decorah, Iowa.

Driftless Multimedia LLC DEADLINE POLICY Decorah Public Opinion display advertising: 4 p.m. Monday.

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Alice Clara Scheidel, 92, of Decorah passed away peacefully at her home Jan. 3, 2024.

Alice was born on Nov. 27, 1931, at home on the farm just north of Festina to Joseph and Anna (Schmitt) Holthaus. She Alice Scheidel was the second youngest of 11 children. Alice was baptized and confirmed at Our Lady of Seven Dolars Church in Festina and attended school there as well.

Alice was united in marriage to Donald T. Scheidel on Dec. 27, 1951, when Donald was home on leave from the U.S. Air Force. After their wedding, they made their home in Mt. Home, Idaho, until being discharged.

Alice and Donald bought their farm in 1957 south of Festina and raised their family there until 1979. Then, they moved to their acreage on Bluffton black-

Ruby Yearous

Ruby Jean Yearous, 85, of rural Sumner, died Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024, at CountryHouse Residence for Memory Care in Cedar Rapids.

She was born east of Sumner on March 16, 1938, the third child of Ruby Yearous Bernard E. and Helen A. (Bartels) Buhr. She and her older twin brother were baptized at Hope Lutheran Church, Westgate, on April 3, 1938, by Pr. Leon Gehret, and confirmed there on April 6, 1952, by Pr. El Roy Buhr.

Ruby attended elementary school at Banks Center and Banks #6 Township and graduated from the Fayette County Public Schools on May 23, 1951. She graduated from Sumner High School on May 18, 1955. She received a two year teaching degree from Wartburg College in Waverly and taught elementary school in La Porte City. She then received a four-year degree from Upper Iowa University in Fayette where she met John Yearous and on July 19, 1959, the couple was united in marriage at Hope Lutheran Church. Ruby

Catherine Hageman

Decorah Public Opinion

top northwest of Decorah. Together they formed and operated Minowa Home Improvement and while Don operated the business Alice provided daycare for many children. Donald passed away in 1992 and Alice continued the daycare for many years after. Alice lived in her own home in Decorah until she sold it two years ago and moved to assisted living at Aase Haugen in Decorah. Alice’s faith and spending time with family were important to her.

Those left to honor her memory include her children: Tim (Jane) Scheidel of Lawler, Terry (Julie) Scheidel of Decorah, Cindy (Roger) Luhring of Tripoli, Ted (Mary) Scheidel of Shell Rock, Todd (Rhonda) Scheidel of Clermont, Tom (Shannon) Scheidel of Grundy Center and Tony (Meghan) Scheidel of Decorah; 21 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; sister, Delores Meyer of Calmar; and four sisters-in-law: Rosemary Holthaus of Tomah, Wis., San-

dy Holthaus of Calmar, MaryAnn Woodson of West Union and Joan Bryson of Northville, Mich.

Alice was preceded in death by her husband, Donald; parents, Joseph and Anna Holthaus; mother and father-in-law, Paul and Elenor Scheidel; daughter, Donna Johnson; daughter-inlaw, Cathy (Vick) Scheidel; grandson, Levi Scheidel; brothers: Walter, Nilus, Cyril, Robert and Rufus Holthaus; sisters: Hedwig Tieskoetter, Sylvia Bodensteiner, Oda Lensing and Ester Timp; sisters-inlaw, Irene Holthaus and Edna Holthaus; and brothers-in-law: Joe Tieskoetter, Albert Bodensteiner, Jerome Lensing, Larry Timp, Dale Meyer, Tom Bryson and Pete Woodson.

Mass of Christian burial was held Saturday, Jan. 6, at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Decorah with Rev. Daniel Knipper presiding. Burial was in the St. Benedict Cemetery.

continued her teaching career in Hawkeye. In the early 1960s the couple moved to Rialto, Calif., where she taught at Colton.

While in California, the couple was blessed with two daughters, Margo and Jonna. Upon their return to Iowa in 1967, the family was complete with the arrival of their son, Jerit. Ruby and John began farming in rural Sumner in 1975. Ruby was very hard working, whether it be milking the cows, tending to other tasks at the farm or being a mother. Although she and John remained very busy, they found time to go dancing.

They attended many dances but might be considered “groupies” of the Dave Dighton Band, even attending a Dave Dighton Band Cruise.

Ruby was a longtime faithful member of St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner, where she was very active in many of the Women’s Groups including Bible Studies, Quilting Group and serving at funerals. Her love language was serving others.

Whether opening their home as a safe loving place to people who were going through struggles in life; or simply sharing their table with visitors enjoying good food and conversation.

Ruby enjoyed sewing, quilting, gardening, reading, oil painting,

collecting recipes and baking.

Ruby is survived by her daughters, Margo (Al) Suckow of Van Meter, Iowa, and Jonna Yearous of Center Point, Iowa; daughter-in-law, Jenn (Chad) Richey of Pleasant Hill, Iowa; seven grandchildren: Madi (Luke) Moffitt of Midland, Texas, Parker (Lizzy Lyon) Suckow of West Des Moines, Burke Suckow of Dallas Center, Iowa, Estee and Ellie Winter of Center Point, Taylor (Chris) Habermann of West Des Moines and Callie Yearous of West Des Moines; three great-grandchildren: Cody, Wyatt and Beau Moffitt; and twin brother, Rev. Roger (Gale) Buhr of Decorah.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, John, in 2019; son, Jerit, in 2020; and brother, Lowell, in infancy.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 13, at 11:30 a.m., at St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner with Rev. Tracy Hinkel officiating. A luncheon will follow the service.

Visitation will precede services at the church on Saturday beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Becker & Son Funeral Home in Sumner is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.beckermilnesrettig. com.

well known for her homemade food, especially her kolaches that were loved by many.

Over the years, Cathy and Ron enjoyed spending time on the dance floor, especially Polka dancing. In the later years, they enjoyed breaks from the cold by spending time in Arizona.

As a lifelong member of the St. Aloysius Church, she served as a Rosary Society Officer and chairman. As an officer, she was also instrumental in a church wide cookbook. Cathy also enjoyed being a member of the Calmar Golf & Country Club, she especially enjoyed playing cards on ladies’ day. In the evenings you could always catch Cathy watching Wheel of Fortune and she loved quickly solving the phrases as they came up.

Cathy enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren – Justin, Brandon, Rachel and Hanna – with homemade treats whenever they stopped by. She was known for offering a ham sandwich on a fresh homemade roll and always having kolaches in the freezer, which she loved sending home with the grandchildren.

Cathy and her husband Ron had a special bond, always caring and devoted to each other.

She followed him to heaven just one month and one day after his passing.

Those left to honor her memory include son, Rick Hage-

man, Calmar; daughters and a son-in-law, Lori (Gregg) Mai, Osage, Lisa Reilly, Ankeny, and Jennifer Hageman, Rochester, Minn.; grandchildren: Justin (Molly) Mai, Brandon (Jackie) Mai, Rachel Reilly and Hanna Reilly; great-grandchildren: Levi Lanphier, Will and Ruby Mai; brother, Robert Flaherty; sister-in-law, Kay Flaherty; brothers and sisters-in-law: Delbert (MaryAnn) Hageman, Herb Hageman and Roger (Joyce) Hageman, Gertie (Paul) Kuennen; and many nieces and nephews.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mildred Flaherty; sisters, Dorothy Poshusta and Lorraine Polansky; brother, Tom Flaherty; sister-in-law, Janet Flaherty; brother-in-law, Edward Polansky; in-laws, Ray and Florence Hageman; sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Hageman; nephews, Darin Hageman and Gary Hageman and niece, Amy Hageman.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, Jan. 13, at 11 a.m., at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Calmar with Rev. Henry Huber presiding. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m., until the time of service at the church on Saturday morning.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St Aloysius Church Improvement fund.

The Helms Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, January 11, 2024

Real Estate

5

Public Notices

CHICKASAW COUNTY REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

PHYLLIS VSETECKA ESTATE

#1 - 38 Acres, 36-97-12 Jackson Township #2 - 64 Acres, 01-96-12 Jackson Township

1-2-JP-8

Bid form/registration and information packets available at Elwood, O’Donohoe, Braun & White, 101 N. Locust, New Hampton, IA. Bids and letter of credit due to Elwood Law Firm no later than 4:00 pm on Friday, January 19, 2024. Auction at Chickasaw Event Center, 301 N. Water St., New Hampton, IA on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 9:00 am. Only registered bidders allowed into the auction. Further bidding will follow to determine if a contract can be agreed upon. Bid forms and packets also availble online by calling 641-228-8054 or emailing a request to charlescity@elwoodlawfirm.com.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • January 11, 2024

For further questions, contact Judith O’Donohoe at 641-228-8054.

Help Wanted $5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • January 11, 2024

Water Testing Grant Fund Frank Livingood, Plug Well ................ 500.00 Dexter Quandahl, Plug Well ............... 500.00 Rural Services Basic Fund John Berlage, Mileage ..........................26.20 Mary Hoffman, Mileage .......................47.16 Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel ...............................66.62 Donna Rasmussen, Mileage .................. 72.05 Wendy Stevens, Mileage .......................44.54 Winn Co Landfill, Fees ....................... 856.18 Winn Co SWCD, Appropriation .....30000.00 Secondary Road Fund AcenTek, Telephone Service...............265.84 All States Ag Parts-131464, Parts ......... 48.68 Alliant Energy, Utilities ......................607.44 Aramark Uniform Services, Services1544.07 Becker Hardware, Inc., Supplies........... 40.97 Bruening Rock Prod, Materials.....346715.01 City of Ridgeway, Utilities ................... 29.26 Compass Minerals America, Inc, Materials ....................................... 24841.08 Culligan, Services .................................23.00 Decorah Newspapers, Publications ..... 224.00 Dick’s Petroleum Company, Services ........................................... 1345.50 Drilling All Season Sports. Supplies..... 61.59 Fastenal Co, Supplies ..............................7.76 Franzen Sales & Service, Parts ...............2.52 Harmony Telephone Company, Services ............................................. 117.08 Hovden Oil Co, Fuel .........................2984.38 Howard’s Tire & Repair, Repairs ..........23.00 Iowa DNR, Registration......................130.00 Iowa Prison Industries, Signs..............176.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies ........... 758.08 Jeffrey Kuboushek, Reimbursement .....91.00 Martin Equipment of IA/IL, Inc, Supplies ............................................. 242.00 MiBroadband, Services ....................... 112.08 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities ....... 1002.03 MWSCO, Supplies.............................. 140.13 Napa Auto Parts, Parts ........................300.27 Pomp’s Tire Service, Services........... 1608.28 Nickolas Rissman, Reimbursment ......184.71 River City Paving, Materials............... 114.40 Ronco Engineering, Services ............2457.63 Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services ......90.00 Shuck-Briston Inc., Services ............. 9031.50 Skyline Construction, Inc., Materials ...70.00 Storey Kenworthy, Supplies................ 642.09 Verizon Connect A/R, Services ...........120.92 WinnMed, Services ............................... 90.00 Ziegler Inc, Services ......................... 3578.04 Co Conserv Capital Improv Fund LetterWerks Sign City, LLC, Signs ....252.50 County Assessor Agency Fund Dell Marketing LP, Equipment .........1440.59 Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel .............................167.78 E911 Surcharge Fund CenturyLink, E911 Service ...................52.38 Mabel Co-op Telephone, E911 Service .....................................257.00 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities ......... 595.32 Emergency Management Comm Casey’s Business MasterCard, Fuel ....885.98 Real Human Performance, LLC, Services ......................................... 13428.00 Festina Sewer Sinking Fund Winn Co Treasurer, Services............. 1331.00 Winneshiek Co Health Ins Fund Midwest Group Benefits, Health Insurance ............................. 4745.42 Midwest Group Benefits, Fees .......... 1005.00 Wellmark, Insurance ..................... 136140.22 Grand Total ...................................626808.30 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 11, 2024

Decorah CommunityWe Schoolare Boardlooking for Boardan Minutes December 18, 2023 Special School Board Meeting Minutes The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am Central Administration Office December 18, 2023 with all members presThursday, January 4, 2024 ent. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was 12:00 p.m. (noon) recited, and the meeting was called to order.

Present: President Cindy Goodner, DirecSean Snyder, Emergency Management tors: Ron Fadness, Brian Petersburg, Carole Coordinator, Dr. Kevin Locke, Medical ExSand, and Aaron Zander. Supt. Dr. Tim Croaminer, and Dr. Anna Mark, Deputy Medical nin, Director of Business Services Cathy DiExaminer; met with the Board to review the etzenbach, Board Secretary Darlene Woodproposed Mass Fatality Plan. Moved by Verhouse, Staff, and Guests. Director Petersburg mace and seconded by Vick to approve the E-mail resume to participated via Zoom.

Mass Fatality Plan as presented. Motion carlbenzing@wellingtonplacedecorah.com or President Goodner called to order the ried unanimously. special school board meeting at 12:00 p.m.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to call 563-382-9691 for details Wellington Place in beautiful scenic Decorah Iowa, Director Zander read the mission statement. approve the consent agenda which includes President Goodner offered Mr. Fullhart minutesNurse of the last meeting is looking for an Overnight the Charge to join ourand the claims Excellent Salary, the opportunity for a closed session. Mr. Fullfiled with the Board. Motion carried unanprofessionals. are 6 pm - 6 am. hart chose an open team session.ofSupt.

Dr. Cronin Hours imously.

401k, Vacation reviewed the complaints, investigations, and $28 up Brenda Kreitzer, County Treasurer, met Starting wage: to $39.50! his findings. Supt. Dr. Cronin’s conclusion with the Board to review her FY25 budget. & Sick Time was a recommendation for the termination of Christopher Miculinich met with the all Mr. Fullhart’s contracts. In the findings, it Board to request his appointment to the Board 2479 River Road, Decorah, IA 1-4-JP-12 was outlined that Mr. Fullhart violated five of Health stay in place. He recommended exboard polies. President Goodner provided panding the Board of Health to six members Mr. Fullhart the opportunity to respond. Mr. to still include Apply at: Tim Cronin, or to consider Fullhart responded to the complaints and stat- online making Cronin an ad hoc member. ed the investigation wasn’t completely accuTony Phillips, Planning, Zoning, and www.wellingtonplacedecorah.com/careers rate. The board discussed the findings and Mr. Flood Plain Administrator, met with the Fullhart’s response and concluded there is a Board present a resolution of intent to Family owned and operated Chevrolet dealership R.W. Pladsen Or call Leah Benzing atto563-382-9691 continued pattern of behavior and violation of join the National Flood Insurance Program.

Inc. in Waukon, Iowa is seeking a Service Advisor. board policies.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet EOE -codePersonnel: Motion: Director Fadness to adopt resolution 24-28 as presented by DETAILS moved, seconded by Director Petersburg to Phillips. Motion carried unanimously by roll Position is a customer facing-role responsible for opening/closapprove the termination of all Lee Fullhart’s call vote. contracts as recommended by Superintendent Kevin Lee and John Beard met with the ing repair orders and scheduling service appointments utilizing Dr. Cronin. Motion carried by all voting aye.

Board to discuss issues surrounding the prothe DealerBuilt DMS system.

There being no further business, the meetposed Freeport Property sale. They invited Individual will fill in at parts counter when needed. Service/Parts ing was adjourned at 12:30 p.m. the Board to attend a community meeting Cindy Goodner, Board President with local residents and tour the area in ANNUAL NOTICE hours are M-F 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m. with a 1-hour lunch break from 12-1 Darlene Woodhouse, Board Secretary question. The Board will discuss whether REGARDING RECORDS p.m. No nights and weekends necessary.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion to schedule a meeting as requested at a later 1. FERPA. January 11, 2024 time.

Keystone Area Education Agency (AEA) BENEFITS Julie Fischer met with the Board to ask maintains records on each student served in about procedures related to the proposed sale order to facilitate the instruction, guidance, R.W. Pladsen Inc. offers a competitive wage and benefits package. of land in Freeport. The Board will ask Andy and educational progress of the student. The Wage based on experience. Automotive knowledge preferred but Van Der Maaten to respond at his agenda records contain information about the student willing to train the right candidate. Candidate may be subject time. and his/her education. These records may inIN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT Andy Van Der Maaten, County Attorney, clude, but are not limited to, the following: FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY to background check and drug testing. Valid drivers license and met with the Board to discuss county issues. identification/directory information, permisIN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF clean driving record is necessary.

The Board asked him to outline the timeline sion(s) of parents for evaluation and placeGrace Pearl Nesheim in development of draft resolutions involved ment, support services reports, Individual DECEASED in the Freeport property sale, which was ultiFamily Service Plans (IFSPs), Individual EdPROBATE NO. ESPR 016259 TO APPLY mately finalized with adoption of resolution ucation Programs (IEPs), and external agency NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, If you feel you are the right person for this position, please 24-27 on December 11th. reports. These records are located at the local OF APPOINTMENT, OF EXECUTOR Moved by Vermace and seconded by Falfield office of Keystone AEA serving the local email resume to carli@pladseninc.com.

AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS det to rescind the appointment of Christopher school district.

To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Miculinich to the Board of Health made at Authorized persons have the right to reGrace Pearl Nesheim, Deceased, who died on FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED 201 Rossville Rd. Full benefits, sign-on bonus, shift pick-up bonus the December 11th meeting.

Motion carried view education records of the student, have or about September 12, 2013: Waukon, IA and free employee meal planYou are hereby notified that on November with Kelsay, Langreck, Vermace, and Faldet those records explained, obtain copies of the For Sale: Starting 2011 FordWage: F150 XLT - V6 13, 2023, the Last Will and Testament of voting aye; and Vick abstaining. Moved by records, and write a response to materials in 563-794-4634 $30-$41.50 Vick and seconded by Vermace to reopen the records. They also have the right to chalPearl Nesheim, deceased, bearing date Ecoboost 35,385 miles.

Clean, kept Grace the Board of Health application process with lenge the content of the records they believe pladseninc.com of November 3, 2005, was admitted to proNEW FACILITY OPENING FALL 2024 applications due December 29th, after which are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in bate in the above-named Court and that Susan garaged. 563-380-4224. 2-tf-PJ-4 To learn more about us visitL. Nesheim, Linda K. Nesheim and Nils W. the applications will be forwarded to the violation of the student’s privacy rights under BOH for review and recommendation back to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Nesheim were appointment Personal Reprewww.wellingtonplacedecorah.com/careers the Board. Motion carried with Kelsay, LanAct (FERPA). The Agency’s policy on stusentative(s) of the estate. Any action to set For Sale: '06 Dodge Grand Caravan.

WINNESHIEK COUNTY IOWA greck, Vermace, and Faldet voting aye; and dent records can be secured upon request by the Will must be brought in the district or call at 563-382-9691 and ask foraside Leah.

7-passengers, very nice condition Vick abstaining. contacting Keystone AEA, 1400 2nd St. NW, court of said county within the later to occur is accepting applications for the position of We look forward to meeting you!

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met Elkader IA 52043, or phone 1-800-632-5918. of four months from the date of the second and reliable. Good tires. Recent with the Board to give project updates.

Agencies and organizations, as identified publication of this notice or one month from EOE -codecheckup. 319-427-3593. 2-1-P- the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs Moved by Vermace and seconded by Falin FERPA regulations, may have restricted det to reappoint Vick to the Northeast Iowa access to student records without prior writof the decedent and devisees under the Will pd-4 Response Group with Sean Snyder as the alten consent of the parent or student over the whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, JOB SUMMARY: This job consists of various advanced network and systernate. Motion carried unanimously. age of 18 years. The AEA discloses education or thereafter be forever barred. tems administration functions involving enterprise level hardware, softBen Steines, County Auditor, reviewed the records without prior written consent under Notice is further given that all persons inware and applications. The position will administer, manage, document Valuation report he compiled for the January the FERPA exception to school officials with debted to the estate are requested to make 1, 2023 valuations used in the preparation of legitimate educational interests. A school immediate payment to the undersigned, and and support the more complex portions of the Information Technology FY25 budgets. Moved by Vick and secondofficial may include, but is not limited to, a creditors having claims against the estate systems and ensure optimal system performance and end-user efficiency. ed by Faldet to approve the 2023 Valuation person employed by Keystone, its board, sershall file them with the Clerk of the above For Rent: 2-bedroom apartment. named district court, as provided by law, duly Report including property valuations, utility vice providers to students (including school REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE: Extensive knowledge and technical skills fovaluations, Homestead Credits/Exemptions, district administrators, instructors, and other authenticated, for allowance, and unless so 1 stall garage. NP/NS. Available filed by the later to occur of four months from Military Exemptions, Family Farm Credits, support staff), consultants, contractors, volcused on installing, configuring, and monitoring enterprise level networks soon. $725/month. 563-380-6712. the second publication of this notice or one and all other associated valuation and credit unteers, job shadows, and other agents of and associated equipment. Experience operating and managing computinformation as compiled by Steines. Motion Keystone. Any other access to student remonth from the date of mailing of this notice 2-4-PJ-x-9 er networks, servers, workstations, and mobile devices. Includes expericarried unanimously. cords shall be only upon written consent or (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is Moved by Faldet and seconded by Verupon court order or legally issued subpoena. thereafter forever barred. ence working in virtualization, Windows server environments, firewalls, mace to adjourn to 9:30am Tuesday, January A Record of Access is maintained so that parDated this date: December 9, 2023.

VPNs, switches, access points, mobile routers, databases, and MS365 2, 2024. Motion carried unanimously. ents may learn who has viewed their student’s Personal Representative(s) of the Estate government tenants. Proficiency in administering AD services, including ATTEST records.

Susan L. Nesheim Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor 2. Record Maintenance/Destruction.

5241 Lincoln Dr. Apt. 111 user management, group policies, domain, DHCP, and DNS controllers.

Assist laundry, Daniel Langreck, Chairand meal service.

It is Keystone AEA’s policy to destroy Minneapolis, MN 55436 with housekeeping, A diverse skill set for managing, maintaining, and securing an organizaBoard Supervisors the following information deemed no longer Personal Representative(s) the Estate Weofcan provide you withofthe training you need to Claims 12-18-2023 needed for determining educational services Linda K. Nesheim tion’s IT infrastructure, including backups, computer policies, emergency Looking for an established and succeed at this position.

General Basic Fund for its students: 5241 Lincoln Dr. Apt. 111 preparedness and incident response. The ability to work contact Leahplanning, Benzing atcyber 563-382-9691 Amazon Capital Services, Supplies ......35.65 successful business or company a. Electronic communication more than Minneapolis, MN 55436 Starting wage: $12.50 outside of normal business hours is required.

Arbeider SP, Services ..........................262.50 seven years old; Personal Representative(s) of the Estate lbenzing@wellingtonplacedecorah.com to purchase. Call 515-341-7886.

Jeff Berns, Reimbursement ................... 80.00 b. Agency forms not related to Early Nils. W. Nesheim Additional information available at Bird Friendly Iowa, Fee ...................... 100.00 ACCESS or special education more than 6316 NW 95th Street 2-4-P-x-3 Apply online at: Black Hills Energy, seven years old; and Johnston, IA 50131 79 River Road,www.winneshiekcounty.iowa.gov/jobs Decorah, IA 52101 • EOE Natural Gas Service ........................ 1921.18 c. Underlying information reported in LARSON LAWwww.wellingtonplacedecorah.com/careers OFFICE Bob Barker Company, Inc, Supplies .....62.58 IEPs/IFSPs (i.e. progress monitoring Please send applications to jlubke@co.winneshiek.ia.us By: Dennis G. Larson Alvin Buege, Transport .........................

60.00 probes, staff notes and evaluation data) (IA AT0004530)

by January 31, 2024 | An EOE employer Benzing at 563-382-9691 Calmar Courier, Publications .............. 120.00 more than seven years old.

(MN 00060501) Or call Leah CenturyLink, Telephone Service......... 684.33 Be advised that this information may 312 W. Main St. EOE PBC, Publications .... 88.03 contain Column Software personally identifiable information Decorah, IA 52101 -codeCopyland, Printing .............................. 185.00 regarding students. If you would like a copy 563-382-8449/5936 DALCO, Supplies ............................... 512.40 of these materials prior to destruction, please Attorney for Susan L. Nesheim, Construction/Remodeling/Windows Decorah Community Schools, contact Keystone AEA at 1-800-632-5918.

Linda K. Nesheim and Nils W. Nesheim, Services .............................................

375.40 Students and parents may file a complaint Personal Representative(s) METAL ROOFS $4995* COMDecorah Farmers Market, Fee............... 40.00 with the U.S. Department of Education conDate of second publication: PLETELY INSTALLED. SIDING/ Decorah Newspapers, Publications .....221.28 cerning alleged failures by Keystone AEA January 18, 2024 Decorah Rental & Sales, to comply with the requirements of FERPA. Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion WINDOWS $1000 OFF. We are Equipment Rental................................62.00 Correspondence should be addressed to: January 11 & 18, 2024 • Some Over Night opening a local branch and will be Decorah Tire Service, Services ........... 231.63 Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. DecorahNews.com, Advertising ........... 96.00 Department of Education • Returning Daily to Cedar Rapids using these homes for advertising.

Drilling All Season Sports, Supplies..... 94.49 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, • Steady Income/100% Paid Benefits SAVE HUNDREDS.*FOR DEMark Faldet, Reimbursement................97.77 DC 20202 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT • Company Training Farmers Union Co-op, Supplies ..........432.00 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion TAILS. 800-664-4856 TRIMASFOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY Galls, LLC, Supplies ...........................129.67 January 11, 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Sam Hageman, Services.................... 2005.00 TER CONSTRUCTION CLINTON JAMES FRANA, Healthcare First, Services ................... 104.74 DECEASED. Heron Consulting, Inc., Services ...... 1800.00 PROBATE NO. ESPR 016262 www.jensentransport.com IAN Treasurer, Membership .................60.00 Miscellaneous NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, ibbi, llc, Supplies................................... 84.82 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND Eliminate gutter cleaning forevIMT Insurance, Bond Premium ..........861.00 Call Tim Jensen for an Interview today: FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, er!

LeafFilter, the most advanced IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF To All Persons Interested in the Estate of EOE 1-800-772-1734 Registration ....................................... 125.00 Carolyn D. Flaskerud, debris-blocking gutter protection. Clinton James Frana, Deceased, who died on Iowa State Assoc Of Counties, DECEASED or about December 20, 2023: Registration ....................................... 100.00 Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estiPROBATE NO. ESPR 016264 You are hereby notified that on December John Deere Financial, Supplies ........... 213.48 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, mate today. 20% off Entire Pur- 27, 2023, the Last Will and Testament of Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel ............................. 475.10 APPOINTMENT, OF EXECUTOR Clinton James Frana, deceased, bearing date Sign City, LLC, Signs ......45.00 chase. Plus 10% Senior & Military of November 14, 2023, was admitted to pro- LetterWerks AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Dr. Kevin Locke, Services .................. 380.00 To All Persons Interested in the Estate of bate in the above-named Court and that DarDiscounts. Call 1-855-913-1560 Martin Bros. Distributing, Supplies .... 467.59 Carolyn D. Flaskerud, Deceased, who died on ryl L. Frana was appointed Executor of the Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Services ... 312.39 or about November 28, 2023: estate. Any action to set aside the Will must Dan Marx, Reimbursement ...................80.00 You are hereby notified that on the 4th day be brought in the district court of said county Miscellaneous Matthew Bender, Publications ............460.01 of January, 2024, the undersigned was apwithin the later to occur of four months from Hanna Meyer, Reimbursement..............20.00 GENERAC Standby Generators the date of the second publication of this no- Midwest Automatic Fire, Inspection ...316.00 pointed as Executor of the estate.

Notice is further given that all persons inor one month from the date of mailing MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities ......... 974.11 provide backup power during utility tice debted to the estate are requested to make of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and Membership ............................ 450.00 immediate payment to the undersigned, and power outages, so your home and devisees under the Will whose identities are NACo, NE IA Comm Action, Services ........... 764.99 creditors having claims against the estate ascertainable, or thereafter be forNE Iowa Metalworks, Inc., Services 3175.00 family stay safe and comfortable. reasonably shall file them with the Clerk of the above ever barred.

Netsmart Technologies, Inc., named district court, as provided by law, duly Notice is further given that all persons inPrepare now. Free 7-year extended Maintenance Agreement ................... 694.00 authenticated, for allowance, and unless so debted to the estate are requested to make warranty ($695 value!). Request a immediate payment to the undersigned, and Evan Neubauer, Reimbursement........... 20.00 filed by the later to occur of four months from Pfizer Inc, Supplies ............................. 762.30 the second publication of this notice or one free quote today! Call for additional creditors having claims against the estate Pitney Bowes Global Financial, month from the date of mailing of this notice shall file them with the Clerk of the above Postage .............................................. 229.80 terms and conditions. 1-855-954- named district court, as provided by law, duly (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is POC Network Technologies, thereafter forever barred. authenticated, for allowance, and unless so 5087 Services ............................................. 631.50 Dated this 5th day of January, 2024. filed by the later to occur of four months from Quadient Fiance USA, Inc., Postage . 2500.00 Herman Jay Flaskerud, Executor the second publication of this notice or one Ricoh USA Inc, 807 River St. month from the date of mailing of this notice Miscellaneous Maintenance Agreement ................... 810.76 Decorah, IA 52101 (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services ......59.50 Replace your roof with the best thereafter forever barred.

MILLER LAW OFFICE, P.L.C. John Scheeler, Transport ....................... 30.00

BY James Burns Dated December 27, 2023.

Marguerite Schwarz, Reimbursement ... 20.00 looking and longest lasting material James Burns AT0001264 Darryl L. Frana, Executor of Estate SCS Engineers, Services .....................487.50 ATTORNEY FOR EXECUTOR 1753 Peppy Place Rd. steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc, 301 West Broadway, P.O. Box 28 Decorah, IA 52101 Services ........................................... 1937.12 styles and multiple colors available.

Decorah, Iowa 52101 William J. Shafer, ICIS#L AT007218 Superior Building Centers, Materials ...88.31 Telephone: (563) 382-4226 Attorney for Executor Guaranteed to last a lifetime! LimitDeb Thorstenson, Transport .................. 60.00 Facsimile: (563) 382-3783 Shafer & Shafer Law Office, PLLC Thrifty White Pharmacy, Services ........ 33.42 ed Time Offer 50% off installation Email: 23 Allamakee St. United States Postal Service, Payment . 98.00 millerlaw@millerlawdecorah.com Waukon, IA 52172 + Additional 10% off install (for Steve Vanden Brink, Services .............120.00 Date of second publication: Date of second publication: Shirley Vermace, Reimbursement ......... 55.67 military, health workers & 1st reJanuary 18, 2024 January 11, 2024 General Supplemental Fund Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion sponders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: Henry M. Adkins & Son, Inc, January 11 & 18, 2024 January 4 & 11, 2024 Services ........................................... 6770.00 1-855-974-5952

FULL-TIME

Day Shift & Over Night Shift Nurse

NOW HIRING SERVICE ADVISOR

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LORENE GEISELHART, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016261 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Lorene Geiselhart, Deceased, who died on or about December 9, 2023: You are hereby notified that on December 22, 2023, the last will and testament of Lorene Geiselhart, deceased, bearing date of September 16, 2014, was admitted to probate in the above-named court and that Nancy Geiken was appointed Executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated December 22, 2023.

Nancy Geiken, Executor of Estate 859 230th Street Ogden, IA 50212 Andrew P. Nelson, ICIS#: AT0005669 Attorney for Executor Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson P.O. Box 126 Decorah, IA 52101 Date of second publication: January 11, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 4 & 11, 2024

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6 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, January 11, 2024

Public Notices Winneshiek County - AccountingWinneshiek County - Accounting Winneshiek County - Accounting Semi-Annual Report Semi-Annual Report Semi-Annual Report

Date 1/03/24 ate - -1/03/24 Time - 12:30:02 ime - 12:30:02

Program - TR20501 Page -

1

Brenda K Kreitzer, Treasurer-Winneshiek County, Decorah, IA Brenda K Kreitzer, Treasurer-Winneshiek County, Decorah, Brenda K Kreitzer, Treasurer-Winneshiek County, Decorah, IA IA For the period from July - December, Inclusive period from July - December, Inclusive ForFor thethe period from July - December, Inclusive Statement of Account By Fund Statement of Account By Fund Statement of Account By Fund

24 Certification Date 01/08/2024 Certification Date 01/08/2024

Revenues Total to beRevenues Disbursements Fund Balance Auditor's Warrants Balance Total Disbursements Fund Balance Auditor's Warrants Balance Revenues Total to to be be Disbursements Fund Balance Auditor's Warrants July Accounted for December Outstanding July Accounted December Outstanding July Accounted forfor December Outstanding 6,928,353.94 4,928,148.53 11,856,502.47 6,061,319.89 5,795,182.58 50,065.70 General Basic 6,928,353.94 4,928,148.53 11,856,502.47 6,061,319.89 5,795,182.58 50,065.70 01 01General Basic 6,928,353.94 4,928,148.53 11,856,502.47 6,061,319.89 5,795,182.58 50,065.70 l 1,513,538.66 1,863,190.48 3,376,729.14 1,804,069.03 1,572,660.11 93,943.54 General Supplemental 1,513,538.66 1,863,190.48 3,376,729.14 1,804,069.03 1,572,660.11 93,943.54 02 02General Supplemental 1,513,538.66 1,863,190.48 3,376,729.14 1,804,069.03 1,572,660.11 93,943.54 c 3,431,388.50 2,311,084.85 5,742,473.35 1,939,635.59 3,802,837.76 11,585.64 Rural Services Basic 3,431,388.50 2,311,084.85 5,742,473.35 1,939,635.59 3,802,837.76 11,585.64 03 03Rural Services Basic 3,431,388.50 2,311,084.85 5,742,473.35 1,939,635.59 3,802,837.76 11,585.64 Fund 04 Water Testing 154,547.29 16,032.00 170,579.29 8,992.87 161,586.42 1,300.00 Grant Fund 154,547.29 16,032.00 170,579.29 8,992.87 161,586.42 1,300.00 04 Water Testing Grant Fund 154,547.29 16,032.00 170,579.29 8,992.87 161,586.42 1,300.00 949,631.04 5,821,710.60 6,771,341.64 5,872,851.43 898,490.21 107,643.12 Secondary Road 949,631.04 5,821,710.60 6,771,341.64 5,872,851.43 898,490.21 107,643.12 05 05Secondary Road 949,631.04 5,821,710.60 6,771,341.64 5,872,851.43 898,490.21 107,643.12 335,054.57 15,384.56 350,439.13 .00 350,439.13 .00 General Reap Grant 335,054.57 15,384.56 350,439.13 350,439.13 07 07General Reap Grant 335,054.57 15,384.56 350,439.13 .00.00 350,439.13 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Drivers License 09 09Drivers License .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 MH-DD Services 10 10MH-DD Services .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 nagement Fe 30,023.26 1,713.52 31,736.78 .00 31,736.78 .00 Recorders Record Management 30,023.26 1,713.52 31,736.78 31,736.78 15 15Recorders Record Management Fe Fe 30,023.26 1,713.52 31,736.78 .00.00 31,736.78 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Property Agency 18 18Property TaxTax Agency .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 22.75 1,428.50 22.75 1,451.251,428.50 1,427.161,451.25 24.091,427.16 .00 24.09 TB/Eradication Fund 19 19TB/Eradication Fund 22.75 1,428.50 1,451.25 1,427.16 24.09 .00.00 4,862.89 329,795.14 334,658.03 327,979.57 6,678.46 .00 Township Control 4,862.89 329,795.14 334,658.03 327,979.57 6,678.46 20 20Township Control 4,862.89 329,795.14 334,658.03 327,979.57 6,678.46 .00.00 27,318.32 4,587,655.43 4,614,973.75 4,570,750.49 44,223.26 .00 Corporation Control 27,318.32 4,587,655.43 4,614,973.75 4,570,750.49 44,223.26 21 21Corporation Control 27,318.32 4,587,655.43 4,614,973.75 4,570,750.49 44,223.26 .00.00 trol 22 School District 117,024.21 9,641,848.76 9,758,872.97 9,593,111.18 165,761.79 .00 Control 117,024.21 9,641,848.76 9,758,872.97 9,593,111.18 165,761.79 22 School District Control 117,024.21 9,641,848.76 9,758,872.97 9,593,111.18 165,761.79 .00.00 8,584.75 810,250.47 818,835.22 806,381.72 12,453.50 .00 Area School Control 8,584.75 810,250.47 818,835.22 806,381.72 12,453.50 23 23Area School Control 8,584.75 810,250.47 818,835.22 806,381.72 12,453.50 .00.00 tion 26 Recorders E Transaction .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 26 Recorders E Transaction .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 1,903.65 156,483.76 158,387.41 155,739.75 2,647.66 .00 Extension 1,903.65 156,483.76 158,387.41 155,739.75 2,647.66 29 29Co.Co. Ag.Ag. Extension 1,903.65 156,483.76 158,387.41 155,739.75 2,647.66 .00.00 nd 58,582.59 13,042.40 71,624.99 .00 71,624.99 .00 Opioid Abatement Fund 58,582.59 13,042.40 71,624.99 71,624.99 30 30Opioid Abatement Fund 58,582.59 13,042.40 71,624.99 .00.00 71,624.99 .00.00 694,406.94 293,553.08 987,960.02 231,013.22 756,946.80 6,800.14 Assessor 694,406.94 293,553.08 987,960.02 231,013.22 756,946.80 6,800.14 31 31Co.Co. Assessor 694,406.94 293,553.08 987,960.02 231,013.22 756,946.80 6,800.14 705,429.94 4,440,664.13 5,146,094.07 4,159,936.21 986,157.86 .00 Motor Vehicle Trust 705,429.94 4,440,664.13 5,146,094.07 4,159,936.21 986,157.86 32 32Motor Vehicle Trust 705,429.94 4,440,664.13 5,146,094.07 4,159,936.21 986,157.86 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Trust 33 33UseUse TaxTax Trust .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 ments 34 City Special Assessments 792.03 36,364.61 792.03 37,156.64 37,078.64 78.00 .00 36,364.61 37,156.64 37,078.64 78.00 34 City Special Assessments 792.03 36,364.61 37,156.64 37,078.64 78.00 .00.00 t .00 25,175.00 25,175.00 25,175.00 .00 .00 Redemption Trust 25,175.00 25,175.00 25,175.00 35 35TaxTax Redemption Trust .00.00 25,175.00 25,175.00 25,175.00 .00.00 .00.00 803,430.26 988,743.15 1,792,173.41 1,057,870.09 734,303.32 137,145.22 Winn Health 803,430.26 988,743.15 1,792,173.41 1,057,870.09 734,303.32 137,145.22 36 36Winn Co Co Health InsIns 803,430.26 988,743.15 1,792,173.41 1,057,870.09 734,303.32 137,145.22 Special AsTownship and County .00Special As .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 37 37Township and County Special As .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 50.00 201.14 251.14 50.00 .00 251.14 251.14 .00 251.14 Over/Short Fund201.14 38 38Over/Short Fund 201.14 50.00 251.14 .00.00 251.14 .00.00 ust .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Elderly/Disabled Trust 41 41Elderly/Disabled Trust .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Special Appraiser .00 42 42Special Appraiser .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Trout Trail 51 51Trout RunRun Trail .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 10,750.00 .00 10,750.00 .00 10,750.00 .00 Freeport Trail 10,750.00 10,750.00 10,750.00 52 52Freeport Trail 10,750.00 .00.00 10,750.00 .00.00 10,750.00 .00.00 c Trust53 Recorders Electronic 264.00 Trust 1,521.00 264.00 1,785.001,521.00 1,559.001,785.00 226.001,559.00 .00 226.00 53 Recorders Electronic Trust 264.00 1,521.00 1,785.00 1,559.00 226.00 .00.00 7,325.01 853,880.037,325.01 861,205.04 846,722.86 14,482.18 .00 County Hospital 853,880.03 861,205.04 846,722.86 14,482.18 60 60County Hospital 7,325.01 853,880.03 861,205.04 846,722.86 14,482.18 .00.00 l 18,642.30 .00 18,642.30 .00 18,642.30 .00 Prairie Farmer Trail 18,642.30 18,642.30 18,642.30 61 61Prairie Farmer Trail 18,642.30 .00.00 18,642.30 .00.00 18,642.30 .00.00 d .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Anatomical Gift Fund 67 67Anatomical Gift Fund .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 d Acq. 68 Co Conservation 422,770.12 129,034.90 551,805.02 47,512.82 504,292.20 252.50 Land Acq. 422,770.12 129,034.90 551,805.02 47,512.82 504,292.20 252.50 68 Co Conservation Land Acq. 422,770.12 129,034.90 551,805.02 47,512.82 504,292.20 252.50 Emerg. 78 Mgt.Agency Fund/E911 1,325,870.05 746,131.38 2,072,001.43 840,524.93 1,231,476.50 26,208.32 & Emerg.

Mgt. 1,325,870.05 746,131.38 2,072,001.43 840,524.93 1,231,476.50 26,208.32 78 Agency Fund/E911 & Emerg.

Mgt. 1,325,870.05 746,131.38 2,072,001.43 840,524.93 1,231,476.50 26,208.32 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Landfill Fund 81 81Landfill Fund .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Sewer Fund 83 83Sewer Fund .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 32,841.54 25,223.00 58,064.54 16,150.00 41,914.54 .00 Sewer Sinking Funds 32,841.54 25,223.00 58,064.54 16,150.00 41,914.54 84 84Sewer Sinking Funds 32,841.54 25,223.00 58,064.54 16,150.00 41,914.54 .00.00 23,679.00 350.00 24,029.00 350.00 .00 24,029.00 .00 Sewer Reserve Funds 23,679.00 24,029.00 24,029.00 85 85Sewer Reserve Funds 23,679.00 350.00 24,029.00 .00.00 24,029.00 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Escrow Fund 92 92TaxTax Escrow Fund .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 d 43,479.34 1,633.83 45,113.17 44,914.14 199.03 .00 Future Collected 43,479.34 1,633.83 45,113.17 44,914.14 199.03 94 94Future TaxTax Collected 43,479.34 1,633.83 45,113.17 44,914.14 199.03 .00.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 Credit Card Fees 95 95Credit Card Fees .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 Fund 96 Clerk of Court Debt .00Fund .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 96 Clerk of Court Debt Fund .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 .00.00 Fund Fund

Program - TR20501 Program - TR20501 Page Page - 1 1

Balance

17,650,718.09

Decorah, IA

52101

01/08/2024

Balance on Hand

38,040,093.11 17,650,718.09 55,690,811.20 38,040,093.11 38,450,715.59 55,690,811.20 17,240,095.61 38,450,715.59 17,650,718.09 38,040,093.11 55,690,811.20 38,450,715.59

434,944.18 17,240,095.61 17,240,095.61

Decorah Chorale ‘Home for the Holidays’ concert donation The Decorah Chorale presented their annual “Home for the Holidays” concert Dec. 9 at Decorah Lutheran Church. A portion of the concert’s free-will donation proceeds were awarded to Winneshiek County Habitat for Humanity ($2,413.22), and the Decorah Food Pantry ($1,043.22). Checks were presented by the Decorah Chorale board president Peggy Kittelson and treasurer Kari Iverson. The next performance for Decorah Chorale will be their annual benefit fundraiser at PIVO Brewery in Calmar, on Sunday, March 10.

The chorale is led by director Jason Rausch. (submitted photo)

434,944.18 434,944.18

$17,240,095.61

I, Brenda K Kreitzer, Treasurer of Winneshiek County, do hereby certify that the report given is a correct summary of the business transacted by me as said during the period therein specified.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 11, 2024 January 2, 2024 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.

Member present: Randy Schissel, Emily Neal, Kirsten Olson, Christopher Miculinich, Steven Zittergruen, Ross Hadley, and Brent Parker Trisha Wilkins presented the annual report for Northeast Iowa Community Action Consent agenda was presented. a....... Minutes of the December 18, 2023, Meeting b. Claims c. Reappointment of Scott Timm and Tina Hall to Tree Board d. Reappointment of Sandhye Puroit Caton to Human Rights Commission e. ............Appointment of Jeff Clement as Fire Chief, Mike Ashbacher as First Assistant Chief, and Kyle Kohls as Second Assistant Chief, per City Code Section 2.14.020 f. ..... Approve Driftless Multimedia as the Official Newspaper for City of Decorah g. Resolution 3421 to Set Public Hearing to Consider Proposing to Vacate a Woodland Protection Easement at 1004 Eileen Court Zittergruen made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented, Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes.

Motion carried.

Hadley made a motion to table the approving of the building permit fees to allow for more research and discussion. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes.

Motion carried.

Hadley made a motion to approve the second reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 17.16.030 related to accessory buildings.

Schissel seconded the motion. Roll call vote.

All voting ayes. Motion carried. Schissel made a motion to waive the third reading and adopt Ordinance 1321 which amends Chapter 17.16.030 relating to accessory buildings, Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve the lowering of the police department sign on bonus from $10,000.00 to $7,500.00 with a three year repayment contract versus a five year repayment contract for certified police officers who are hired by the City of Decorah.

Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote.

All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Schissel made a motion to approve the professional service agreement with WHKS for 2024 bridge inspections, Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes.

Motion carried.

Mayor Borowski announced that there are openings on the Telecommunications Board and the Human Rights Commission. The city will be accepting applications until filled.

Meeting adjourned at 7:00 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Tuesday, January 2, 2024 Payroll, Payroll For 12-22-2023 ..182,849.78 Idals - Entomology & Plant Science Burea, Idals- Renewal/Pesticide ..................... 15.00 Delta Dental, Ins. For January 2024 1,539.20 Fastenal, Parts/Supplies ........................ 35.69 Row-Heyveld, Zach, Pla Conference Reimbursement 2023 ..................... 1,312.60 Kerndt, Zach, On Star Reimbursement .................... 270.00 Ytzen, Adam, First Line Supervisor Training .......... 827.61 Connell Flying Service, 45261 ........3,683.31 Milligan, Cole, Reimbursement For Shipping .............19.56 Viking Realtors, Land Purchase Dahlen Property ......................1,265,000.00 Petty Cash, 2023 New Years Eve Bash/ Tobacco Comp. Check ......................400.00 Postmaster, Bulk Mailing ....................389.86 Wmca-Iimc Region Vi, Iimc Training..................................... 200.00 Ace Hardware, Supplies...................... 112.92 Aia Services, Campground Apparel ....989.60 Alliant Energy, Electric Bills ........... 6,944.14 American Library Assoc, Membership ...................................... 247.00 Baker & Taylor, Books.....................2,763.57 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas ...... 3,679.11 Bruening Rock Products, Rural Sewer Repair ...........................219.80 Cameron Price Ford, Services.............295.00 Canine Development Group, Yearly Subscription ...........................140.00 Capital One, Supplies..........................232.96 Card Service Center, Supplies.......... 2,898.11 Casper Plbg & Htg , Services ..........6,178.99 Center Point Large Print, Books .........142.13 Chris A Storlie, Solar ....................... 1,604.99 County Wide Plbg., Roto Root ........2,108.00 Croell , Manhole Repair...................1,460.25 Dalaco, Concrete Blankets .................. 279.44 Decorah Tire Service, Vehicle Maint. ...29.94 Des Moines Stamp, Stamp ....................68.00 Driftless Multimedia, Minutes And Claims .........................150.14 Erdman Engineering, Easement Research ........................... 652.00 Fareway Stores Inc, Supplies ................42.44 First Supply, Services.......................1,665.81 Fisk Farm And Home, Supplies/Parts .637.57 Grafix Shoppe, Vehicle .......................585.90 Hawkins Inc, Tank Rental/Fluoride . 2,150.15 Helena Agri-Enterprises, Herbicides2,149.51 Impact Coffee, Program Expense ......... 85.00 Imwca, 23-24 Work Comp Premium .........................................8,164.00 International Mountian Bicycling Assoc, Carlson Park .................................14,186.86 Iowa Dept Of Public Safety ........Dept Public Safety-Oct-Dec 2021 ..........................967.50 Iowa Division Of The Iai, Membership 75.00 Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, Training .............................................160.00 Iowa Library Association,

Membership ......................................155.00 Jennifer Opheim, Services ..................725.00 John Deere Financial, Operating Supplies ............................263.39 Kirkeby Welding, Shop Supplies ............5.00 Kwik Trip, Fuel ................................5,356.71 Letterwerks -Sign City, Services.........470.00 Lulu & Bb’s, Dog Food ..................... 102.88 Mabes Pizza, Touch A Truck Food .....287.23 Marso Electric, Replace Green Light On Beacon ...............................425.50 Mcdonald Supply, Parts ........................ 45.19 Midwest Patch/Hi-Viz Safety, Clothing.............................................977.00 Minuteman, Services...........................108.78 Mississippi Welders, Tank Certification..8.67 Mower Power, Services ......................185.47 Napa, Floor Dry .................................... 94.90 Ncl Government Capital, Bucket Truck Payment ................. 53,581.41 Nina Smock, Program .........................300.00 Perry Novak Electric, Electrical ......... 590.09 Pitney Bowes, Postage Ink..................127.80 Randy’s Auto Parts, Supplies ..............502.07 Ross Chemical Systems, Structure Gear Detergent ..................155.95 Skyline Const, Pcc Patch/Sidewalk ...................... 28,600.48 Spahn & Rose Lumber, Parts/Supplies .13.44 Storey Kenworthy, Office Supplies.......88.98 T & W Grinding, Grind Brush ....... 11,050.00 Truck Country Of Iowa, Services - Truck 9 ..........................6,937.69 United States Police Canine Assoc, Membership Renewal .........................50.00 Universal Truck Equip, Truck #2 - Turn Cylinder ..................826.00 Ups, Postage..........................................37.74 Usa Blue Book, Services.....................729.70 Vick’s Htg And Plbg, Parts ...................78.30 Wallace Holland Kast, Diversion Channel Feasibility Study .......................... 13,513.59 Windridge Implements, Tractor - Shift Lever Repair ..............849.76 Winn Co. San. Landfill, Deer ............... 19.50 Wise Welding, Bench Repair ................50.00 Ziegler Inc, Parts/Services ...............2,914.64 Revenue to date December 29, 2023 General Fund.............................5,171,300.17 Local Option Sales Tax ................715,850.27 Road Use Fund.............................555,524.54 Employee Benefits .......................947,288.36 Hotel/Motel .................................. 228,552.39 SSMID ...........................................13,673.18 Park Special Gifts ............................7,468.46 Library Special Gifts ........................6,554.15 Street Equip Fund ............................9,845.08 Debt Service Fund........................662,723.05 Special Projects ............................ 106,007.95 Water Utility Fund ....................... 730,117.78 Sewer Utility Fund ....................... 695,347.10 Enterprise Project Interest ................7,666.30 Metronet .........................................63,328.00 Forest Utility ..................................58,364.55 Storm Sewer Utility .....................100,335.08 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 11, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MILFRED O. NELSON, DECEASED. PROBATE NO. ESPR 016263 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Milfred O. Nelson, Deceased, who died on or about July 22, 2021: You are hereby notified that on December 29, 2023, the Last Will and Testament of Milfred O. Nelson, deceased, bearing date of January 25, 2018, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Mark Nelson and Ronald Nelson have been appointed Co-Executors of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated December 29, 2023.

Mark Nelson, Co-Executor of Estate 2156 Middle Ossian Rd. Decorah, IA 52101 Ronald Nelson, Co-Executor of Estate 3150 state Hwy. 9 Ridgeway, IA 52165 Andrew P. Nelson, ICIS#: AT0005669 Attorney for Co-Executors Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson 101 ½ E. Water Street, P.O. Box 126 Decorah, IA 52101 Date of second publication: January 11, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 4 & 11, 2024 NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS FOR TIERED PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS Date of Publication: [January 18, 2024] Iowa Finance Authority 1963 Bell Ave., Suite 200 Des Moines, Iowa 50315 515.452.0422 On or after January 30, 2024, the Iowa

Finance Authority will authorize the Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission to submit a request to the HUD Program Office for the release of HOME funds under Title II of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, as amended to undertake the following project: Tier 1 Broad Review Project/Program Title: Northeast IA Homebuyer Program Purpose: To assist 5 first-time low-income homeowners with down payments and rehabilitation activities to secure safe, decent, and affordable housing.

Location: Within the incorporated city limits in Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard, and Winneshiek Counties in Iowa.

Project/Program Description: The program will provide downpayment and/or rehabilitation to five income-eligible first-time homebuyers. Tier 2 site-specific reviews will be completed for those laws and authorities not addressed in Tier 1 broad review for each address under this program when addresses become known.

Level of Environmental Review Citation: The level of environmental review required for this program is 24 CFR Part 58.35(a)(3).

Tier 2 Site Specific Review: The site-specific reviews will cover the following laws and authorities not addressed in Tier 1 broad review: Historic Preservation [National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, particularly sections 106 & 110; 36 CFR Part 800] and Noise Abatement and Control [Noise Control Act of 1972, as amended by the Quiet Communities Act of 1978; 24 CFR Part 51 Subpart B], Contamination and Toxic [24 CFR 58.5(1)(2)]; Explosive and Flammable Hazards 24 CFR Part 51 Subpart C and Floodplain [24 CFR 55.12(c)].

Mitigation Measures/Conditions/Permits (if any): Historic Preservation: Each home purchased with the HOME funds will go through Section 106 consultation with State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The SHPO documentation packet will be uploaded into the SHPO’s ESHPO system. Noise Abatement and Control: The Preliminary Screening will determine if there are noise generators in the vicinity of the project. If the project does have noise generators in the vicinity (1000 feet of a major road, 3,000 feet of a railroad and/or 15 miles within an airport.

The project will have to be in compliance with HUD’s Noise regulation prior to HOME funds being used on the project. Contamination and Toxic: Each home purchased with HOME funds must document that project will not be located on or near a site that contains hazardous materials, contamination, toxic chemicals or gases, or radioactive substances, that could affect the health and safety of occupants or that conflict with the intended utilization of the property. Floodplain: Each home purchased must not be in a floodplain and will be documented by a FIRMette. Explosive and Flammable Hazards: Each home purchased with HOME funds must document that the project will not be located on or near a site that would be located within HUD required distances from explosive and/or flammable hazards.

Estimated Project Cost: ... estimated HUD funds $224,097 and total estimated project cost of $244,097.

The activity/activities proposed are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements per 58.35(a) (3). An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this project is on file at Iowa Finance Authority 1963 Bell Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa, 50315 may be examined or copied on weekdays from 9 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. The ERR can also be found on HUD Exchange Environmental Review Records at http://www. hudexchange.info/programs/environmental-review-records/ . This project will not allow homes to be located within a Special Flood Hazard Area or a 500-year floodplain or wetland.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Iowa Finance Authority. All comments received by January 30, 2024; will be considered by the Iowa Finance Authority prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.

ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION The Iowa Finance Authority certifies to HUD that Deborah Durham, Certifying Officer, in her capacity as Executive Director consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission to use HUD program funds.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the Iowa Finance Authority certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Iowa Finance Authority; (b) the Iowa Finance Authority has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmen-

tal quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD environmental mailbox at CPD_COVID-19OEE-OMA@ hud.gov Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Name and Title of RE Certifying Officer, Deborah Durham Note: The seven-day public comment period is the minimum time period required by regulation prior to submission of a Request for Release of Funds and Certification (form HUD-7015.15 to HUD/State. The Responsible Entity may choose to allow a longer comment period. The fifteen-day objection period is a statutory requirement. The objection period follows the submission date specified in the Notice or the actual date of receipt by HUD/State, whichever is later.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 11, 2024 Board Minutes January 2, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am January 2, 2024 with all members present.

The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order

by Benjamin D. Steines, County Auditor.

Steines called for nominations for Chair for 2024. Langreck was nominated by Vick, Vermace was nominated by Faldet. The vote was held and Langreck was elected Chair with Vick, Kelsay, Langreck, and Vermace voting for Langreck; and Faldet voting for Vermace. Steines called for nominations for Vice Chair. Vick was nominated by Kelsay, Vermace was nominated by Faldet. The vote was held and Vick was elected Vice Chair with Vick, Kelsay, and Langreck voting for Vick, and Vermace and Faldet voting for Vermace. Langreck assumed the chair.

Trisha Wilkins, NEIA Community Action Director, met with the Board to present an annual report, request funding for FY25, and review the General Relief budget for FY25.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Vermace to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting, the liquor license for The Zipper, and to accept and file the monthly report of the VA Commission and the quarterly report of the County Auditor. Motion carried unanimously.

Sean Snyder, Emergency Management Coordinator, met with the Board to review the Emergency Management Commission budget for FY25.

Nicole Uthoff, Department of Human Services, met with the Board to review the DHS facilities budget for the local office for FY25.

Scott Logsdon, Recycling Supervisor, met with the Board to review his FY25 budget.

Mark Dawley, resident of Bluffton, met with the Board to report an issue with the surveyed property line and road adjacent to his house. Michael Kueny, County Engineer, presented a map and findings by the County Surveyor. Kueny reported that a vacation of eleven feet of road right-of-way may alleviate Dawley’s concerns without creating an issue for the road department. Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Vick to adopt resolution 2429, setting a public hearing on the proposed vacation for January 15, 2024 at 10:00am.

Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Jon Lubke, IT & GIS Director, met with the Board to discuss the continuing issues with the A/V upgrade in the Annex building and the proposed change order from CTI. The Board was not in favor of signing the change order but would like to have the CTI personnel on the agenda for a future meeting.

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, and Nick Rissman, Howard County Engineer, met with the Board to review the FY25 road department budget.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to name the Decorah Public Opinion and Calmar Courier the Official County Newspapers for 2024. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the 2024 list of County Holidays as presented by Steines. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Vermace to leave the mileage, meal, lodging, and medical reimbursements the same for 2024. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Vick to appoint Doug Groux as the Weed Commissioner for 2024. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vermace and seconded by Kelsay to adopt resolution 24-30, the Construction Evaluation Resolution for the Master Matrix scoring of CAFO operation for 2024.

Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

The resolution will be forwarded to the DNR as required.

The Board discussed the Freeport residents’ request to hold a public meeting in Freeport on Thursday January 4th at 7:00pm.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vermace to post a meeting notice for the meeting as an official meeting of the Board. Motion failed with Vermace and Faldet voting aye; and Vick, Kelsay, and Langreck voting nay.

The residents still plan to hold the meeting and two of the Board members plan to attend.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Vermace to enter into contract with Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission for administration for the State Revolving Loan funding for the Festina Sewer Project.

Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Faldet to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, January 8, 2024. Motion carried unanimously.

ATTEST Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 11, 2024

The Well at Crater Fitness gives back to Decorah community

Throughout the year at The Well at Crater Fitness, a portion of each person’s class fee is set aside, and each time someone attended a class in November, they were encouraged to nominate a local non-profit to benefit — the name of which would be drawn on Giving Tuesday. This year, the Elks Children’s Foundation, nominated by Annette Schweinefus, Public Notices was drawn as the recipient.

Ordinance No. 1321 The donation will assist in AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 17 -ZONING OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE providing local students asOF THE CITY OF DECORAH RELATED sistance in participating in TO SECTIONS 17.16.030 ACCESSORY BUILDINGS. the Washington, D.C. trip WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Decorah, Iowa with their classmates. Picrecommends amending Title 17 of the Dectured (l-r) are Mary Ann orah City Code regarding accessory buildings and permitted accessory uses; and Humpal, Les Askelson, AnWHEREAS, a public hearing was held on the proposed resolution, where public comnette Schweinefus and Heidi ment was made in favor of and against the request; and Rockweiler. (submitted phoWHEREAS, the City Council finds allows to) increase the minimum allowed accessory buildings as a way to allow larger buildings in smaller rear yards in Decorah.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa as follows: 1. That Decorah Municipal Code Sections 17.16.030 by deleting said Section 17.16.030 and adopting in lieu thereof as follows: 17.16.030 Accessory buildings.

A. No accessory building shall be erected in any required yard other than a rear yard, except as provided hereinafter. Accessory buildings in rear yards shall be at least five feet from alley lines and at least five feet from lot lines of adjoining lots which are in any “R” district, and on a corner lot they shall conform to the setback regulations on the side street. Accessory buildings may be erected as a part of the principal building, or may be connected thereto by a breezeway or similar structure, provided all yard requirements for a principal building are complied with.

An accessory building which is not a part of the main building shall not occupy more than thirty percent of the rear yard and shall not exceed twenty-five feet in height; however, this regulation shall not be interpreted to prohibit the construction of a seven hundred fifty-square-foot garage on a minimum rear yard.

B. No accessory building shall be constructed upon a lot until the construction of the main building has been actually commenced, and no accessory building shall be used unless the main building on the lot is also being used.

Repealer. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed.

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

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

Date of First Reading: 12-18-2023 Date of Second Reading: 01-02-2024 Roll Call Vote: Councilmen Voting Aye: Hadley, Schissel, Zittergruen, Neal, Miculinich, Parker, Olson Councilmen Voting Nay: None PASSED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of January, 2024.

CITY OF DECORAH Lorraine Borowski, Mayor ATTEST: Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 11, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, has set the 15th day of January, 2024, at 10:00 o’clock a.m. at the Board of Supervisors Room in the Winneshiek County Courthouse in Decorah, Iowa, as the time and place for hearing to consider vacating and approving transfer of THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY: The East 11 feet of Bluffton Hill Road, adjacent to Lot 1, Block 10, in the Village of Bluffton, Winneshiek County, Iowa; and, At said time and place, arguments for and against vacation and approving transfer of the subject properties will be heard and considered. Any objections that are not made at the hearing will be deemed waived.

By order of the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, this the 2nd day of January, 2024.

Benjamin D. Steines, Auditor Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion January 11, 2024

Schrandt cheers great-grandson on to victory

On Thursday, Nov. 16, Edna Schrandt once again traveled to Camp Randall Stadium in Madison to watch her great-grandson, Brady Lehnherr, play in the Wisconsin Division 5 State Championship Football Game.

Brady is a senior at Aquinas High School in La Crosse and plays for the Aquinas Blugolds.

Brady had multiple roles for the Blugolds — starting at Tight End and Middle Linebacker as well as handling the punting duties. The Blugolds won their third consecutive state championship by a score of 32 to 13 — over the Wrightstown Tigers. In the Blugolds victory, Brady had 11 tackles, rushed for 2 touchdowns and ran a fake punt 15 yards for a critical first down. Brady was also selected to the Wisconsin State Football Championship All-Finals Team (all divisions) and was a First Team All-Conference selection.

Brady will continue his football career next fall playing for the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Eagles. Brady Lehnherr is also the great of nephew of Vicky Hinsenbrock of Decorah.

A frosty adventure for students Caregiver Field trips with Decorah Library and Upper Explorerland’s Walking School Bus Students in grades 3-8 are invited to lace up their boots and grab their winter gear for a series of Winter Walking Field Trips with the Walking School Bus. Decorah Public Library and Upper Explorerland have collaborated to host the events, held on Wednesdays, Jan. 17, 24 and 31 and Feb. 7, from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.

Each week, students will explore a new destination in town. The hands-on program promises a blend of winter fun and physical activity, including

Support Group Meeting Jan. 15 cross-country

snowshoeing, skiing and sledding (weather permitting). Participants should come prepared with appropriate winter gear, including snow pants, hats and warm gloves or mittens.

Due to limited space, registration is required. Interested participants can find registration forms at www.decorahlibrary.org/calendar-of-events.

For inquiries about accessibility, accommodations or logistics, contact Sophie Nall at snall@decorahlibrary.org.

Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A) is hosting its free monthly in-person support group meeting Monday, Jan. 15, at 10 a.m., in the Conference Room of the Spectrum Network building, located at 607 Washington Street, in Decorah.

Meetings are held the third Monday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. All caregivers are welcome to attend.

For more information, contact Kelly at NEI3A at 563277-6024.

Johnson EP learning Taylor Swift songs,” she said.

Helen said she started writing her own music, when she was about 10 years old, but she wrote her first whole song a bit earlier.

“I wrote my first actual song with the guitar in fifth grade, but I will not be sharing that, because it was about my fifthgrade crush,” she said with a laugh. “That will never see the light of day.”

Currently working as an immigration paralegal at a small Minneapolis firm, Helen describes her niche as a combination of pop, bedroom pop, Americana and country. And, she said her style is most influenced by Taylor Swift, Lana Del Ray, The Chicks and Shania Twain.

“More recently, in my adult life, I have been loving pop artists like Maisie Peters and Olivia Rodrigo,” she said. “I’d love to try my hand with that genre — more mainstream pop — in the future.”

Helen, an All-State musician in high school, began performing in Decorah, when she was 11 or 12 years old, and she said releasing an EP was simply the next logical step in her music

career.

“It was important, because in order to have any kind of career in music, you obviously have to release music!” she said. “I hardly had anything released to show people my songs, my sound, etc., so I needed to get a larger project out there in the world. It was also important to start realizing my music as fully produced songs. All my life I have performed as a solo artist with just me and my guitar and keyboard. That’s fun, but it’s not how I hear my music in my head. I always wanted to make my songs with a full band production.

“I am super happy with the EP,” she continued. “As an artist, there’s always going to be things you think you could have done better, or ideas you have after you’ve already finished the project, but for a first EP I’m pretty proud of it.”

Although the Decorah area knows Helen as a mostly-solo artist, she said she couldn’t have done any of it without her parents’ unwavering support.

“My parents have always supported me unconditionally, in everything I do, but specifically with music,” she said.

“They have always been my

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biggest cheerleaders and supporters. They have helped me financially with my music too, which I am extremely grateful for, because making music costs a lot of money, and as an independent artist, just starting out, you don’t really make anything back. My grandparents and sisters have also always supported me and cheered me on. I really couldn’t ask for a more supportive family.”

Helen’s short-term goals include making a music video for her song “Round and Round”, building her audience through social media and doing more shows. And in the long run, she hopes to make a living in the music industry.

“One of my long-term goals is getting a lot better at music production, so that I can make songs and play around with my sound by myself,” Helen said.

“And, of course, the big longterm goal is to have a career from music. I’d love to tour someday. That’s the dream, right?”

For more information on Helen and her new EP, visit www. helenmusicofficial.com.

Freeport property Dec. 18, it became apparent, during those two meetings, that communications had occurred outside of public settings between supervisors Langreck, Kelsay, Vick and Van der Maten, between Dec. 4 and Dec. 11. On Dec. 15, you received a request for all communication records, phone records, e-mails and soforth regarding this issue by the Winneshiek County Citizens.

That request yields information that calls into question whether the Iowa state laws regulating open public meetings were violated during the drafting and final approval of the resolution that governs the acceptance for bids for the Freeport parcel in question. Subsequently, an official complaint has been filed with the Iowa Public Information Board.

As of today, Jan. 8, 2024, that complaint remains open.”

Lee concluded his presentation by saying that because of the open complaint, the supervisors should table further action on the matter until the complaint with the Iowa Public Information Board is resolved.

Later in the meeting, the Winneshiek County Attorney said he didn’t feel the supervisors had anything to be concerned about, in regard to the Iowa Public Information Board complaint. However, Van der Maten said the potential for the parcel to contain Native American burial sites is a little more concerning.

Freeport-area resident and attorney Melissa O’Rourke said she received an e-mail from Dr. Lara Noldner, the Bioarchaeology Director for Iowa State Archaeologist, in which Noldner said she could confirm that a mound site is located in the parcel’s location.

“That one mound is basically adjacent to the pin to the north on the map you provid-

ed,” O’Rourke said, reading the e-mail aloud for the supervisors. “The site boundaries significantly overlaps your area of concern, although much of the site has been built over as of 1976, but is certainly considered an ancient burial site, and therefore, intentional disturbance is unlawful, pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 263B.7-9 and {…}. If it currently owned by the county, and that ownership can be maintained, that would be ideal. If it is sold, we would just need to make sure the new owners know the burial site as well.”

Van der Maten agreed any potential buyers of the land need to be informed that it contains an ancient burial site, which would require the new owners to follow Iowa Law, as it pertains to ancient burial sites, as O’Rourke shared.

Between Lee’s and O’Rourke’s presentations, however, Freeport resident Christine Kolarsky presented to the supervisors nearly two dozen statements from residents who spoke during the Freeport community meeting, which was held the night Jan. 4, which attracted 70 local residents who were concerned about the issue.

“Our floors were completely destroyed in the flood of 2016,” Kolarsky said, sharing her personal experience with local disaster. “We rebuilt with fill dirt.

Our house sits higher now. No help from the county, but our community helped a great deal.

These are our homes, and every few years, we’re back here, pleading with you to do what you can to help us protect them.

We’re trying, personally, to do what we can, and we are. I want you to think of us as your neighbors and your friends.”

Decorah resident Steven Nelson shared with the supervisors

continued from front

a petition that 376 residents from in and around the Freeport community had signed in opposition of the supervisors’ possible sale of the property. And, near the end of the public hearing, Decorah resident Barbara Massman had only one very specific point to make.

“Is there anybody here that is in support, from the public, is in support of this transaction?”

Massman asked — in response to which nobody from packed courthouse annex raised their hand. “By a show of hands, who here is opposed to it?”

All members of the audience raised their hands. Massman then asked the supervisors if they had received any indication, by anyone and by any means, showing they were in favor of the county’s sale of the land. Supervisors Chair Dan Langreck said he’d received a phone call that morning from someone who was in favor of the sale.

“So, one phone call?” Massman asked. “One phone call this morning. I mean … does that speak volumes?”

After the public hearing the supervisors asked the county attorney for his thoughts on how they should move forward, and at first, the supervisors unanimously approved a motion to delay the opening of the bids until Jan. 22 and giving the bidders the option to modify or withdraw their bid due to fact that the parcel contains an ancient burial site. Further discussion on the matter was originally tabled until the Jan. 15 supervisors meeting.

However, after a brief discussion, the supervisors unanimously approved a motion to reject the bids received and further discuss the terms of the potential sale during the Jan. 15 meeting.

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, January 11, 2024 7

Echoes of the Past

By Roz Weis

Ice rink flooding is now under way

1944

EIGHTY YEARS AGO: With the advent of cold weather this month, it was possible to build a base and flood the ice skating rink just west of the former Hoyem Grocery in West Decorah. Carl Selland is in charge of this project. …Olaf M. Hustvedt of Decorah has earned the Legion of Merit Award. The local Rear Admiral was recognized by U.S. Congress. …Noecker Taxi Service currently transports all of the Decorah mail to Calmar in the evenings. …No liquor permits will be sold at the 177 state-owned liquor stores in Iowa during the week of Christmas. This ruling was adopted by the State Liquor Control Commission.

1954 Ice Cave

SEVENTY YEARS AGO: The Rev. Frank Callender, pastor at Decorah Congregational Church for the past eight years, has resigned to take a post in Windsor, Wis. …The Decorah Toastmaster Club will receive their charter soon in a ceremony in the Hotel Winneshiek’s Viking Room. …A new line of fine, Norwegian sterling has arrived at the Viking Gift Nook at 409 West Main Street. …Tenor Charles Rosenthal is home from his studies in Italy, and sang at the Christmas service this holiday season at the Decorah Lutheran Church.

He has spent the past few years singing throughout Rome.

Charles is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Rosenthal of 601 Main Street. …Decorah’s Bandbox has some sweet pretties for the best girls on your shopping list. Cotton anklets are 39 cents. Little lady nightgowns are $1.39.

1964

SIXTY YEARS AGO: For the first time in more than three years, all students in the Decorah Schools are attending classes in actual school classrooms when classes resumed after the Christmas vacation.

Contractors on the new John Cline School say the move went off on schedule! The new school is a one-story building, completely modern in design! …Known to locals at the Coon Club Cabin, this little piece of paradise is just 14 miles northeast of Decorah. The area is encircled by vast hills of trees in a special wonderland. It is situated on 40 wooded acres.

Coon Club Cabin was purchased back in 1895 by eight area businessmen: Henry Davidson, Fred Ruen, Gus Neufert, Burt Morse, Jim Weiser, Bill Meyrick, George Groves and E.J. Curtin. Some extensive remodeling of the cabin has taken place recently by the new owners, Henry and Louise Coughlin. …Some of the historic artifacts from Luther College’s Norwegian-American Historical Museum, have become part of a collection to be featured at the American Museum of Immigration which will open at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City.

1974

FIFTY YEARS AGO: Dick Wuest, football coach for the Decorah Vikings for the past 10 years, was named Class 1 “Coach of the Year for Northeast Iowa”. Wuest guided the local football team to a perfect

This picture shows some explorers at the entrance to Ice Cave in Decorah from a bygone era. Today the cave entrance is approximately 15 feet high and leads down a slippery, sloped passageway. (From the Driftless Multimedia archives)

8-0 record this past season. …Decorah School Board approved purchase of five new school buses. Total cost for all: $46,572. …The proposed Sunday sale of liquor was vetoed by Decorah Mayor Vern Iverson. The mayor said he felt Decorah residents could last a few hours without buying liquor, and they can certainly stock up during the week for Sundays. …Jack and Jill has a deal on frozen pumpkin pies – 19 cents each. A pound of butter is on sale this week for 50 cents.

1984

FORTY YEARS AGO: The “hex” over South Winneshiek’s boys’ basketball team is over.

Coach Ehler’s Warriors had not won at Tripoli in the past eight years. That was until the other night when South Winn came out victorious, 53-46. …Decorah Junior High will present “Christmas in Oz” next week. Principal roles went to Andrea Strand, Sandi Snitker, Bob Boleyn and Erik Yarwood. …Luther College will hold the annual Santa Lucia program, with Scandinavian and American students dressed in white robes telling the legendary story. A breakfast of traditional Lucia buns will follow in the lobby of the Center for Faith and Life. …Nor-Ski Runs right here in Decorah has opened for the season. Nearly 50 skiers hit the slopes of the ski hill after several inches of snow blanketed the area over the weekend.

coach, principal and activities director.

2004

TWENTY YEARS AGO: West Side residents are celebrating the life of the historic Tavener (Green) Bridge with lights. Each evening at twilight, the steel truss bridge on Fifth Avenue shimmers with 4,000 white lights. The onelane structure, which spans the Upper Iowa River, is scheduled to be replaced next year with a two-lane bridge. …Decorah’s Depot Outlet is turning 30 years old. The outlet has been a mainstay in the community, featuring lowcost, used clothing and other items. Barbara Butler of Decorah served as past president of the Depot Outlet Board in the 1970s and 1980s, and she said the idea of providing a center for this kind of distribution came out of social concerns in the 1970s. The Depot is a registered, non-profit organization and was incorporated in 1973.

It was originally located in the old Decorah Railroad Depot – hence its name. Directors say they are overwhelmed with the demand for this type of service. …A ribbon-cutting was held recently at one of Decorah’s newest businesses – Steven’s Fun & Fitness at 301 West Water Street. Steven Olson is the owner. …The Decorah Kilties recently hosted a cookbook fundraiser. New corps members were among those marching in the recent Decorah Christmas Parade.

1994 2014

THIRTY YEARS AGO: Decorah’s Seed Savers Exchange has been awarded a $125,000 grant from the Kresge Foundation to build an office complex and storage facility at Heritage Farm north of Decorah. …The homecoming court at North Winneshiek School north of Decorah includes Travis Snell, Tricia Berg, John Quandahl, Nicole Headington, Steven Henry, Stacey Tweten, Stefan Forberg, Pam Sande, Josh Abbott, Aaron McConnell, Erik Wangsness, Laura Carolan, Eddie Szabo, Trisha Headington, Marsha Headington, Amy Monson and Stacy Bigler. …Elliot Christen of Decorah has announced his retirement from public education at the end of the school year. He has spent 33 years as teacher,

TEN YEARS AGO: Decorah School District Board of Directors approved creating a new position for a “Dean of Students” at the high school. The new dean will be responsible for attendance, discipline, safety and related student personnel services. …Pam Breitsprecher of Ossian is being honored this month at a “Round Up Retirement Party” in observance of her 30 years with Decorah Bank. …The first annual “Holiday Soiree” at Hotel Winneshiek’s Steyer Opera House is being held this month. A concert will be the highlight of the event.

Featured entertainers are Dietrich Jensen, Jeni Grouws and Jessica Breed.

8 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, January 11, 2024

January proclaimed National Mentoring Month 2024

By Zach Jensen Helping Services for Youth & Families (HSYF) asked the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors to proclaim January 2024 as National Mentoring Month during the supervisors’ regular meeting held the morning of Monday, Jan. 8.

In a presentation for the supervisors, HSYF Mentoring Coordinator Kathy Schwartzhoff, CPS, shared information about mentoring services the local organization provided area youths in the last year. The statistics show that throughout 2023, HSYF served 89 youths, and 97 percent of youths served have positive relationships with others. Additionally, 148 people volunteered time working for HSYF, and 159 adult participants attended substance abuse training offered through the mentoring program.

“Whereas studies show that mentoring is a highly effective strategy for preventing several key problems that young peo-

Pictured (l-r): beginning in the front row, are: Cindy Simpson, Helping Services for Youth & Families (HSYF) mentor; Leah Hemesath, HSYF Steering Committee member; Colinne McCann, HSYF Mentoring Coordinator; Diane Sadler, HSYF Steering Committee member; Maya Pribbenow, HSYF Mentoring Intern; Colleen Wetli, HSYF Steering Committee member; Kathy Schwartzhoff, HSYF Mentoring Coordinator and Shirley Vermace, Supervisor.

Back row: Supervisor Steve Kelsay, Supervisors Vice-Chair Mark Vick, Supervisors Chair Dan Langreck, Supervisor Mark Faldet, Carson Eggland, HSYF Executive Director; and Ben Steines, County Auditor. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Zach Jensen) ple face, and whereas mentors are a highly valued source of friendship to youth in our country, and whereas more mentors are needed,” the HSYF proclamation reads, “now, therefore, we, the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors do hereby proclaim that January 2024 is National Mentoring Month in

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Other business • The supervisors heard a funding request from Bear Creek Maintenance.

• VA Administrator Faith Hlubek, County Attorney Andy Van Der Maten, IT & GIS Director Jon Lubke and Public Health Director Krista VandenBrink presented their FY25 budget reports. The Decorah Public Opinion will cover all the county’s budgetary issues in a future edition.

• The Winneshiek County Library Association shared its annual reports and funding requests for FY25.

• Lincoln Township Trustee Kelvin Rue presented a request for help in paying for a new

pump truck for the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department. The request is for $30,000, which will go toward a new pump truck at a cost of $440,000.

• Nathan Reasner and Jessie Hartsock of CTI of Cedar Rapids met with the supervisors to discuss their options regarding the new sound system in the courthouse annex. The CTI representatives agreed it would install speakers on the east and west walls of the audience area of the annex — as well as include several detachable earpieces to be used by audience members who are hearing impaired.

• County Engineer Michael Kueny reported he’d visited Fort Atkinson and Spillville to discuss projects in those communities. He also reported he’s fielding questions and concerns from the public, and he’s driven multiple county roads in preparation for future projects.

The next regular meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held at 9:30 a.m., Jan. 15, at the Courthouse Annex in Decorah.

Recipients at the 2 p.m. presentation included Jerry Skoda, Kenneth Westin and Steven Haugen. Back row: Linda Cameron Rose, Doug Frana and George Hamilton. Quilts of Valor is a nonprofit organization with the mission to cover service members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing quilts. To nominate a Veteran, contact Julie Lukes at 563-562-3511.

Depot to host annual meeting Jan. 16

The Depot Outlet of Decorah will hold its 49th Annual Meeting of Members at Stone Ridge Community Church, 1111 Montgomery Street, Decorah, on Tuesday, Jan. 16, at 1:30 p.m. The meeting will review the events of 2023 and provide information regarding the grants made by the Depot

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Winneshiek County. As public officials, we call upon all citizens in our county to join us in raising awareness of mentoring in its various forms, helping to recruit individuals to mentor youth, and support the rapid growth of mentoring in our county.”

The proclamation was signed by all the county supervisors.

TWELVE VETERANS WERE HONORED and presented Quilts of Valor during two presentations Nov. 11, 2023, at the All Vets Club in Decorah. Recipients in the 10 a.m. presentation included, from left to right, beginning in the front row: Trevor Thomas, Steve Nelson and Kurt Schulte. Back row: Benjamin Holland, Willard Hanson and Ron Rude. (Submitted photos)

Outlet to Winneshiek County organizations.

The Depot Outlet will close at noon that day to allow staff to attend. In case of inclement weather, listen for a cancellation notice on local radio stations. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome to attend.

Law Enforcement Winneshiek Sheriff Ezekiel Larson, 24, of West Union, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail Dec. 29 at 2:45 p.m., on a Floyd County arrest warrant for failure to appear.

Jeffrey Schmitt, 42, of Fort Atkinson, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail Dec. 29 at 11:08 a.m., on an arrest warrant for two counts of contempt – violation of no contact/protective order.

Madison Geerts, 21, of West Union, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail at 2:45 p.m., Dec. 29 on a Floyd County arrest warrant for failure to appear.

Nathaniel Coleman, 26, of Wau-

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kon, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail Dec. 31 at 3 a.m., on two arrest warrants (Winneshiek County arrest warrant for violation of probation and Allamakee County arrest warrant for domestic abuse assault).

The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an erratic driver who was driving in the ditch on Highway 9 between Cresco and Ridgeway at 1:50 a.m., Dec. 30. Subsequently, Allen Mann, 21, of Ridgeway, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail for operating while under the influence. Howard County Sheriff’s Office and Cresco Police Department assisted the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office.

The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office responded to a disturbance at a residence on 172nd Ave, Decorah, at approximately 12:27 a.m., on Dec. 30. Upon arrival two deputies were assaulted by being punched and spit on. Subsequently, Jacqueline Stocks, 48, of Rochester, Minn., was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail for D felony assault on a peace officer with the intent to inflict serious injury, serious misdemeanor assault on a peace officer, simple misdemeanor interference with official acts/resisting arrest and simple misdemeanor disorderly conduct.

Winneshiek County Deputies were dispatched to the scene on West Ridge Road Dec. 28 and found no one at the car. Discovered were male-sized shoe prints in the snow leading from the driver’s side of the vehicle. The vehicle was southbound on the road when it failed to negotiate a corner on the slippery gravel. Vehicle struck a wooden fence post and snapped the barbed wire fence. The driver reportedly fled the scene. While investigating, officers found several pieces of paperwork belonging to the named driver. The driver arrived as the vehicle was being towed, and admitted to driving.

Nathan Klein, 36, of Mechanicsville, claimed to be uninjured and was alone. Klein was cited for failure to maintain control and driving while license denied, suspended, cancelled or revoked. Damages totaled $5,500 to the 2005 Cadillac SUV and $1,500 to a fence owned

by Larry McGraw.

Santa delivers to Toys Go ‘Round

Decorah Public Library Toys Go ‘Round (TGR) Coordinator Kathy Barloon announced that Santa made a special delivery to the TGR center at the library in Decorah, and he reportedly left lots of toys for the little girls and boys of the Winneshiek County area. Area parents and guardians are encouraged to stop by at 607 Washington Street Wednesdays and Thursdays, between 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Membership to TGR is open to anyone in the Winneshiek County area and beyond. For information, call Barloon at 563-4199119. (submitted photo)

Sunday Cinema Series continues Jan. 14 Decorah Parks and Recreation is hosting another Sunday Cinema Series on Jan. 14. Community members are invited to attend a family-friendly movie showing at 2:30 p.m., in the Decorah Middle School Gym. Movies are chosen via social media votes, so be sure to follow Decorah Parks and Rec on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Movie options will be posted the Monday before each showing. Voting will begin as soon

as the post is live and will be available Monday through Friday. The movie with the most votes by the end of the day Friday will be shown at the Cinema Series.

Popcorn will be available for free throughout the movie. Participants are welcome to bring in their own snacks and a beverage.

The next tentative movie date is Sunday, Feb. 11, at 2:30 p.m.

Decorah Area Quilters meeting postponed The Decorah Area Quilters have rescheduled their Jan. 9 monthly meeting due to severe weather. The meeting will now be held Tuesday, Jan. 16, at 6 p.m., at ArtHaus in Decorah.

After a welcome and introductions, members are encouraged to share show-and-tell projects - especially any items that arrived over the holidays. Rachel Faldet will tell about her love of batik fabrics and will show some quilts that illustrate the point.

The Decorah Area Quilters meet at 6 p.m., on the second Tuesday of each month at ArtHaus. Everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Mike Ellingsen at 507-602-0322, or Jarret Johnson at 563-419-6952.