February 29, 2024

HAPPY

LEAP DAY

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 9

Decorah, Iowa 52101 www.decorahnewspapers.com

Flying the banner high; Vikes headed to state

One Section email: news@decorahnewspapers.com

Tulgren completes new murals in Decorah’s downtown alleyway

Local Artist Hannah Tulgren has completed two new public murals located in downtown Decorah’s main alleyway.

“Floral Stamp” is a onefoot-by-two-foot mural located on the back of Impact Coffee, above the dumpster. It is the first in a Postage Stamp series being done by the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce as part of the Empower Decorah leadership program.

The second mural, “Red Fox & Flowers” a 24-foot long Nordic-inspired work, was privately commissioned and is visible in the alleyway behind the 200 block of West Water Street.

Tulgren, Marketing Manager for Pulpit Rock Brewery, is building her public art portfo-

Artist Hannah Tulgren in front lio. She received a special of the privately-commissioned invitation to do outdoor “Red Fox & Flowers Mural”. mural work in 2023 for the painting of Dr. Henry W. Both of Tulgren’s works Mack K-8 School in Miami, went through the required muFla., as part of The Reimagral permit application process ining Art Worldwide project. for approval in the C-3 district She also completed a comwhich includes review by the missioned indoor mural for a Decorah Historic Preservation childcare facility in Stillwater, Commission and the City of Minn. Other art by Tulgren Decorah. is viewable in the mezzanine The next mural effort for space at Impact Coffee and the Tulgren will be a collaboraold brewery space left of the tion with The Sunflower Child counter in Pulpit Rock.

Development & Discovery “I honestly just love bringing Center team.

A design process pops of color into spaces, espeis underway for a large indoor cially in a public setting,” the mural that will complement artist said. “I want to create fun watershed and agricultural acand happy pieces that are a joy tivities in the new Discovery to discover. Work that brings a little light into someone’s day.” play space.

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fax: 563-382-5949

Retired band director celebrates 86th birthday by reflecting on life as a teacher and piano tuner

By Zach Jensen

Andrew Rhodes and Ben Bockman wave the state qualifying banner toward the Decorah student section as the rest of the Viking boys’ basketball team celebrates their win and state tournament bid Monday night. Decorah defeated Charles City 69-40 in the Class 3A Substate 3 final to mark the school’s second trip to state in the last three years and its fourth in school history. See the complete story on the game and more photos on page 6.

(Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

Price One Dollar

Merlyn Finley isn’t tuning as many pianos anymore. Thanks to electric pianos and electronic keyboards, there’s just not as much of a call for piano tuners as there once was. So, Finley, a Decorah resident who turned 86 on Feb. 25, spends much of his free time in his old shop; once packed with pianos and piano-repairing tools — now a retreat in which he hand-crafts wood items.

“That’s the latest bowl I just made out of particle board,” Finley said, picking up his most recent project. “I finished it with an epoxy. It’s not a perfect job, but I really like how it turned out. I got to experiment with particle board one day. I had a bunch of sheets of it out here, and I thought, ‘What am I going to do with that stuff? Maybe this will work.’ So, whatever works, by golly.”

Born in 1938 in Riceville, Finley was raised on a farm neighboring the farmstead where Luther College’s famed Weston Noble grew up. But, he said, music wasn’t his first choice of career.

“In high school, I wanted to be a jock, because I was the biggest kid in my class, and I was built like a farm kid,” Finley said. “But, I had a bad foot, and I couldn’t run very well. So, I tried out for football once, and they wanted to make me their kicker, because I couldn’t run very well. One day at practice, they hiked the ball over my head, and when I went back to grab it, I was tackled and got injured. My folks didn’t even know I’d gone out for football, so when I came home with an injury, that was the end of my football career.”

By that time, young Finley had already taken lessons to play piano, the clarinet and alto

Piano tuner Merlyn Finley stops for a photo, as he tunes a piano at St. Theresa Catholic School in Spillville. (submitted)

saxophone, so with his football career having been cut short, music seemed like the obvious next step.

In 1956, Finley graduated from Riceville High School, and later that year, he began classes at Parsons College in Fairfield.

“My tuition back then was $600 a semester,” he said with a chuckle. “Now it’s $30,000 or something like that.”

Finley graduated from Parsons with a bachelor’s degree in music education (BME) in 1960, and in 1967, he earned his master’s degree in music education (MME) from the University of Northern Iowa.

His first music teaching job was in Ocheyedan, in far northwestern Iowa.

“We had a spring concert that year, and I didn’t know this, but the superintendent from Mallard attended that concert, and

he offered me a thousand-dollar raise to come teach at his school,” Finley said. “Back then, that was good money, so I took the job in Mallard.”

It was during that time, in Mallard, that Finley began tuning pianos but not for money at first.

“It started out as a hobby, because I didn’t like how the pianos were tuned at Mallard,” he said. “So, I said to myself, ‘Well, heck, I’ll just learn how to do this myself, so I can tune my own piano.’ I took a correspondence course, and that’s how I learned basic tuning. I practiced on my own piano, and I got so I could tune the band room piano, and a teacher asked me if I could tune hers, and a neighbor heard and asked ‘Can

Finley

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continued on page 2

Kueny reports to supervisors on Visit us online www.decorahnewspapers summer- work projects

By Zach Jensen

Summer work projects was the topic of discussion by Winneshiek County Engineer Michael Kueny.

Kueny said this summer’s more-significant work projects include the shouldering of County Road W14 and the first stage of the Frankville road

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paving project, which is replacing the culverts.

Kueny and the supervisors also formalized the continuing share agreement with Howard County Engineer Nick Rissman. Rissman served as Winneshiek County’s interim engineer prior to when Kueny was hired, and he will continue working for the county, helping Kueny

acclimate to his new position.

Other business • County Sanitarian Doug Groux presented a request for a dairy expansion permit for KG4 Farms. The farm would be

Supervisors continued on page 3

2 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, February 29, 2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THESE LOCAL ‘LEAPSTERS’

Landry Thornton

Community orchestra attracts many to Sunday performance The Oneota Valley Community Orchestra performed “Folksongs, Dances & Beethoven” Sunday afternoon, Feb. 25, in the Decorah High School auditorium. At least a couple hundred local residents attended the performance directed by Matthew Cody. (Driftless Multimedia photos by Zach Jensen) ABOVE: Cellists Randy Mastin (front) Carissa Egan perform during the folk songs portion of the Oneota Valley Community Orchestra’s Feb. 25 presentation. LEFTFrench Horn players Meg Sessions, Damian Combs, Weston Krug and Principal Horn, Solveig Kleppe.

Kristy Dietzenbach Norma Cahalan

LEAP YEAR FACTS • Is it a leap year? If the last two digits of the year are divisible by four (for example, 2016, 2020, 2024 …) then it’s a leap year. Century years are the exception to this rule. They must be divisible by 400 to be leap years—so, 2000 and 2400 are leap years, but 2100 will not be one. As a bonus, U.S. leap years almost always coincide with election years.

• Julius Caesar introduced the first calendar leap year in 46 B.C. The Earth takes exactly 365 days, five hours, 48 minutes and 45 seconds to circle the sun. The occasional Feb. 29 ensures we don’t lose six hours every year. The extra day adjusts the Gregorian calendar (aka, the 365-day calendar) to the solar calendar and makes sure we celebrate solar events like the spring and autumn equinoxes with some regularity every year.

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• Leap year babies are called “leapsters,” “leapers” or “leaplings.”

• Famous “leapsters” include: Dinah Shore, Tony Robbins, Jimmy Dorsey, Joss Ackland, Jessie Usher, Alex Rocco, Dennis Farina, Antonio Sabato Jr., Dave Williams, Ja Rule and Superman.

Artist Hannah Tulgren at the Chamber’s Ribbon Cutting in Miniature event for “Floral Stamp” in the company of fellow Empower Decorah participants.

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Public Opinion | Driftless Journal

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Finley continued from front

Oliver Brummel

Oliver Brummel is a junior in the high school band.

Band teacher Matthew Cody commented, “Since 5th grade, Oliver has been a trumpet player in band. As of November 2023, he switched to tuba, and hasn’t looked back. He embraced the challenge of switching to a new instrument, demonstrating his willingness to not only expand his musical expertise, but be a team player in this ensemble. Additionally, he has excelled at playing guitar in Jazz Band and is always willing to step up and play solos or accompany them.”

Oliver is also involved in swimming, jazz band, choir, large group, speech, musical, madrigal singers and National Honor Society.

His parents are Eva and Brian Brummel.

Alic� Peterson

Alice Peterson plays tuba in the 5th grade band. Middle School Band Teacher Emily Hahn said, “Alice is on top of her game! She’s very talented at playing tuba and is diligent about practicing. She’s a leader in the 5th grade band and a joy to have in class.”

Alice is also involved in soccer, summer swim team, and plays hockey at the ice rink.

Her parents are Rolf and Laura Peterson.

Iris Wadsworth

Iris Wadsworth plays the flute in the 6th grade band.

Middle School Band Teacher Emily Hahn said, “Iris is a joy to have in class. She is very organized and is always ready to learn. She’s a true leader and a very advanced player. Iris practices on a regular basis and is always prepared for her lessons and class. She’s a role model for her class.”

Alice is also involved in chorus, soccer and opus honor choir.

Her parents are Heidi Betz and David Wadsworth.

Decorah Music A Tradition of Excellence

westmusic.com

To learn more and support the school music programs, visit our Facebook page @ Decorah Music Boosters

you tune mine?’ It just kept snowballing from ‘63 – on.”

Finley taught in Mallard for three years before accepting a position in Maynard and working there for seven years. While in Maynard, Finley was tuning even more pianos, and he was charging for his work. And, on top of that, he also began moving pianos all over the country.

In 1972, Finley accepted the position of high school band director for the Waukon Community School District.

“When I was in Maynard, I was tuning quite a lot of pianos, but when I went to Waukon, I thought I’d be done with tuning,” he recalled. “But, then, one year, I got a call from Weston Noble at Luther, to come over to tune a piano. So, I did, and it turned out to be a test, and I became Luther’s piano tuner, and I was tuning all 47 of their pianos. My job was to keep them all tuned for three or four years. I’d teach in Waukon all day, and then I’d hop in my camper and drive over to Luther to tune pianos, and I’d sleep overnight in Decorah and head back to Waukon to teach the next morning.”

After doing that for a few years, Luther asked Finley to tune its pianos full-time, but at the time, he had kids of his own in college, and he didn’t feel like taking the gamble.

“I tell ya, these concert pianists are just a pain in the … well, some of them are.” he said, laughing. “I had one guy one night, I was tuning after teaching all day, and he was sitting right behind me waiting for me to get done. So, when I got done, I asked him to give it a try, and he didn’t speak English very well. He played and played, and then he stopped and said ‘Not right! Not right!’ on this one note. So, I said I’d check it out, while he used the restroom. I checked it, and there was nothing wrong with it. Everything was right on, so

I didn’t do anything. When he came back, I told him to try it again. And, this time, he played, and he said ‘Ah, just right! Just right!’. That’s the kind of thing you deal with – with some of these guys.”

Finley said that while he was teaching, he had a waiting list of about 100 pianos needing to be tuned. After he retired from teaching in 1981, his waiting list grew to 200.

“I was tuning three and four a day, five or six days a week,” he said. “It just got to be a big job.”

In the early 1980’s, Finley said he didn’t have much local competition, and he covered about a 100-mile radius around Decorah. He was tuning pianos all over the tri-state area; from Iowa Falls to Prairie du Chien and from La Crosse to Rochester and everywhere in between.

Finley said that while his tuning schedule was booked 40 years ago, he actually has more competition in the Decorah area today, with four younger tuners located around northeast Iowa.

His waiting list is under 10, and he’s content tuning one or two per week — whatever he feels like.

“It’s satisfying for me to go into a house where they have a piano that’s just god-awful and tune it up so the kids can take lessons,” Finley said. “I like to make it sound right, and I like to do that for people – give them an instrument that’s playable and sounds decent. That kid growing up could have perfect pitch – if he has an instrument to learn perfect pitch from.

“When young girls and guys grew up, they were expected to play the piano but not anymore,” he continued. “Now, they’re too busy texting or whatever. I used to have a dozen pianos sitting in here for sale, and it was good money. A piano like that one there would have brought $2,000 or $3,000. If I sold that for $500 today, I’d be lucky, because piano sales are just through the

With more time on his hands and more space in his shop, Merlyn Finley’s latest hobby is crafting wooden bowls and other objects. Pictured in front of a shelf full of past projects is a bowl Finley recently crafted out of particle board. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Zach Jensen) floor. And, that’s because there are fewer kids being brought up to play, and that has hurt the piano-tuning business a bit. I hadn’t noticed it, but like these kids that are starting out (as tuners), they have plenty of work. There are hundreds and hundreds of pianos out there. They may not tune ’em, but they’re there.”

Finley said he’d leave a business card and/or other markings inside each piano he tuned, so he’d know how it was tuned the next time he was called to tune the same piano.

“I have a piano tuning program on my iPhone, and I still argue with it once in a while.

The thing of it is, if you’re in a house with hardwood or cement floors, a piano sounds different than with carpet. When you have carpet and draperies and all this stuff that soaks up sound, you have to stretch octaves a little bit more. These gadgets don’t know that.”

Finley also explained that playing the piano is one of the most therapeutic instruments available, and if a child is giv-

en the opportunity to learn an instrument of any kind, that type of gift will stay with them throughout their lives and help shape them as they develop into adults and beyond.

“In my tuning career, I don’t know how many older women, my age, would call me up to tune their piano,” he said.

“They would tell me, when was I was there, that their doctor said ‘Get your piano tuned, and play again. Keep your hands working, keep your mind working.’ It’s one of the best therapy instruments out there.

“Teaching children how to make music isn’t just another school activity,” Finley continued. “It enriches our youth, while simultaneously stimulating and challenging them. For a young person, playing music becomes a safe place where anything is possible. I’ve been fortunate to have been able to inspire children in this way throughout my life, and now, as adults, many of them get in touch with me just to say ‘Thanks,’ and I really appreciate that.”

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, February 29, 2024 3

Upcoming Coffee and Creativity programs

Luther College Giving Day returns March 7 Gnome is where the heart is for Luther College’s Giving Day, which returns for its ninth year on Thursday, March 7. The annual event aims to celebrate the Luther community while raising money for the Luther Fund, Luther’s unrestricted current fund that supports all students, faculty, staff and community endeavors on campus. For more information on ways to give, visit the website at https://www.luther.edu/alumni-friends/support/gift-types/luther-fund/ giving-day.

Decorah Public Library and ArtHaus are continuing the Coffee and Creativity program series designed to help build community while being creative. Participants can create simple craft projects while chatting over coffee from 1011:30 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at the library.

On March 5, attendees will make crepe paper flowers. On March 19, tea towels will be created. Sessions are led by ArtHaus instructors.

All are welcome to attend, regardless of artistic ability.

Programs are free and open to the public with all materials provided.

For information, contact Zach Row-Heyveld at Decorah Public Library at zrowheyveld@decorahlibrary.org or 563-382-3717.

‘Dragons Love Tacos’ featured DHS students participate in Wartburg’s Unified Sports Day at book walk in Several students from the Dec- to learn new sports skills and such as golf and bocce ball. orah Community School District participate in games alongside Throughout the day, students Phelps Park Front row (l-r): Kamryn Leuenberger, Johnathan Bean, Sky Pasche, Daniel Bean and John Lippe. Back (l-r): Donnie Hrdlicka, Essa Miller, Jude Ryan, Haley Stinson and Braden Ramstad (submitted photo)

traveled to Waverly Feb. 10 to participate in Wartburg College’s 25th annual Unified Sports Day through Special Olympics Iowa.

The Unified Sports program is a way for Special Olympic athletes

general education students.

At this event, the Decorah students explored sports they know like basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball and pickleball as well as sports that were new to them

rotated through stations with Wartburg students to participate in each of the sports, capping off the day with a Unified Sports basketball game with members of the Wartburg basketball team.

DHS/DMS present Jazz Coffeehouse Friday Colby Leiran, Domenik Smith and Jeremiah Leiran from Decorah Lutheran Church helped greet members and guests prior to the service and also presented the children’s message during the service. (submitted)

Musicians from the Decorah High School’s 7 O’Clock Jazz Band and the middle school jazz band will join forces to share their talents at Jazz Coffeehouse Friday, March 1, in the high school cafeteria. Doors open at 6:45 p.m., and music starts at 7 p.m.

Coffee and desserts will be available and a free-will donation will be appreciated.

The public is cordially invited to join in the fun, relaxed atmosphere.

The DHS band is directed by Matthew Cody and the DMS band is directed by Emily Hahn.

Boy Scouts observe Scout Sunday The National Boy Scouts of America observed Sunday, Feb. 4, as Scout Sunday. Scout Sunday aims to recognize the contributions of young people and adults to scouting, and is a day that scouts can give back to their religious community by helping during the service.

The Boy Scout Troop 66 in Decorah had members participate in Scout Sunday at their home churches. Scouts helped with audio visual communication of the church service, greeted members and guests of

Christian Volz is seen running the camera and livestream at Decorah Covenant Church. the church and participated in the service.

‘Notes from the Border’ presentation highlights US southern border crisis The Decorah Public Library will host a thought-provoking presentation, “Notes from the Border,” at 6:30 p.m., March 6, in the library’s mezzanine. The presentation offers a journey into the lives of those crossing the border and the complexities they face. This event is free and open to the public.

Scott Boylen, local educator and volunteer, will shed light on a critical humanitarian crisis unfolding at the United States’ southern border. The program aims to foster understanding and empathy, focusing on the human beings involved and their challenging experiences, rather than engaging in political discourse.

Boylen will share his firsthand experiences and observations from his time volunteering with the Humane Borders organization, including images and stories to offer a unique perspective that goes beyond the headlines.

During winter break from teaching sixth-grade science at Decorah Middle School, Boylen dedicated eight days to work in and around Ajo, Ariz., provid-

ing basic needs and water to migrants, most of whom are asylum seekers, at the border near Lukeville, Ariz., within the Organ Pipe National Monument.

The Decorah Public Library is proud to host this event that comes from a place of compassion and hope. In line with our

commitment to respectful and meaningful discourse, we emphasize that hateful comments and behavior will not be tolerated during this event.

For more information, contact Zach Row-Heyveld at Decorah Public Library at zrowheyveld@decorahlibrary.org.

The Decorah Public Library, the Decorah Community School District and the Decorah Parks and Recreation Department are hosting a Book Walk in Phelps Park from Feb. 26 through March 11.

This book walk will feature “Dragons Love Tacos” by Adam Rubin. The Bookwalk is free, open to the public and does not require registration.

The story is available in both English and Spanish.

Law Enforcement Winneshiek Sheriff Tracy Leuchtenmacher, 32, of Cresco, was arrested in Howard County Feb. 26, and transported to the Winneshiek County Jail on an arrest warrant for two counts of controlled substance violation (Methamphetamine). The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Howard County Sheriff’s Office and Cresco Police Department. This is an ongoing investigation with more charges pending.

Holly Terrell, 40, of Ridgeway, was arrested Feb. 25 and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail on three arrest warrants for violation of probation.

Jacob Wurst, 31, of Decorah, was arrested Feb. 26 and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail on an arrest warrant for violation of no contact/protective order/contempt.

The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at residence in Cresco Feb. 26.

As a result, Dalton Hagen, 26, of Cresco, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail for two counts of controlled substance violation (Methamphetamine).

This is an ongoing investigation with more charges pending. The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Howard County Sheriff’s Office and Cresco Police Department

Congratulations to Kanpai Soda Shop on their opening!

Pictured are Chamber Ambassadors Adam Baker, Marcia Madrigal, Joanie Rollins, Tara McConnell, Ray Rinkol, Laura Gronna, Holly Allen, Joe Hammel, Tade Kerndt, and Chris Hicks with the Kanpai team and family.

Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce extends congratulations to

Our sincere congratulations and best wishes for your success and continued growth in the Decorah area.

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

Good Shepherd Lenten Recital Series begins March 6 This year’s Lenten Recital Series at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church once again features a variety of music on three Wednesdays during Lent, from 12:15-12:45 p.m., in the church sanctuary. All recitals are free and open to the public.

The series kicks off on March 6, featuring solo and chamber music by Luther College senior music student Mattie Snyder, cello and friends. The program includes: • 5 Folk Songs for Cello and Piano by Sultan Tsintsadze, Movements III and IV, featuring Mattie Snyder, cello and Nathan Eck, piano.

• Limestone and Felt by Car-

oline Shaw featuring Jess Trygstad, viola, and Mattie Snyder, cello.

• Folk Suite for Cello by Liz Davis Maxfield featuring Mattie Snyder, cello.

On March 13, students from the organ studio of Alexander Meszler, will perform. On March 20, enjoy music by Warren Gooch, George Walker and a premiere by Brooke Joyce, featuring Craig Hultgren, cello and Brooke Joyce, piano and organ.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is located at 701 Iowa Ave., Decorah. For more information, call 563-382-3963.

Supervisors continued from front adding a total of 6,900 head of cattle under the new permit, which was unanimously approved.

• Supervisor Mark Faldet reported on a meeting of the first judicial district in which restructuring of the juvenile detention system was discussed.

• Supervisor Shirley Vermace reported that the behavioral health board met Feb. 22. She said the committee was waiting to see how the legislation will respond to Iowa Health and Human Services Director Kelly Garcia’s recent request regarding the further reorganization of Iowa’s behavioral health system. Vermace said that if this happens, the county’s behavioral health system will likely be required to cover a larger area with no additional funding.

• Supervisor Steve Kelsay reported that the Northeast Iowa Workforce Development Board released a notice that it has lost its Title 1 provider status with Goodwill because of new reporting requirements by the federal government and the amount of overhead versus results.

• Supervisor Chair Dan Langreck suggested that County Auditor Ben Steines put a discussion on township trustee pay on a future supervisors’ agenda.

• The supervisors accepted and filed the Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission annual financial

report.

• Amy Zeigler, State Tourism Manager for Travel Iowa, shared some “tourism insights” with the supervisors.

The next meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held at 9:30 a.m., Monday, March 4, at the courthouse annex.

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4 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, February 29, 2024

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Company, Services ........................................... 1675.75 Carquest Auto Parts, Parts.................1422.54 City of Ridgeway, Utilities ...................29.26 Compass Minerals America, Inc, Materials .......................................27781.23 Culligan, Services .................................39.00 DeBauche Truck & Diesel, Parts ......4609.18 Decorah Ace Hardware, Supplies .........26.98 Decorah Auto Center Inc, Services ....... 75.71 Decorah Rental & Sales, Equipment Rental................................60.00 Decorah Tire Service, Services ......... 5442.91 Drilling All Season Sports, Supplies..... 24.77 Fisk Farm & Home Inc., Supplies ......203.90 Headington Repair, LLC, Services ...1061.16 Helena Chemical Company, Supplies . 175.11 Hovden Oil Co, Fuel ......................... 6718.43 IA Concrete Paving Association, Fees 180.00 Iowa Prison Industries, Signs.............. 520.96 John Deere Financial, Supplies ...........344.99 Mabel Co-op Telephone Ridgeway, Telephone Service ...............................79.31 Martin Equipment of IA/IL, Inc, Supplies ........................................... 1940.77 Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Services ... 124.84 Meyer Big Iron Repair, Parts ............ 3574.84 MiBroadband, Services .......................229.18 MWSCO, Supplies..............................124.47 Napa Auto Parts, Parts ........................367.84 Olsgard’s Auto Sales, Services ...........529.99 Sadler Power Train, Parts....................674.87 Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services ......98.00 Spahn & Rose Lumber, Materials .........16.72 TraffiCalm Systems, Signs ................5737.00 Truck Country of Iowa, Services ......9892.29 UnityPoint Clinic, Services.................294.00 Verizon Connect A/R, Services ......... 1181.87 WinnMed, Services .............................258.00 County Assessor Agency Fund Amazon Capital Services, Supplies ...... 77.74 Column Software PBC, Publications .... 69.04 Decorah Newspapers, Publications ....... 46.73 Mailing Services Inc, Services..........5200.00 E911 Surcharge Fund AcenTek, Telephone Service...............512.66 Alliant Energy, Utilities ......................410.09 American Tower Corporation, Rental ..............................................1950.52 Fuse Technic LLC, Services ............. 1225.00 Iowa DOT, Signs ................................. 680.00 Mabel Co-op Telephone, E911 Service ..................................... 118.58 Emergency Management Comm Amazon Capital Services, Supplies ....188.32 AT&T Mobility, Cellular Service..........91.24 Capital One, Payment ........................... 80.57 Elan Financial Services, Payment .....1227.68 Olson Explosives, Fuel .........................63.90 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service ..............14.04 Burr Oak Sewer Sinking Fund Winn Co Treasurer, Services........... 12723.00 Winneshiek Co Health Ins Fund Midwest Group Benefits, Health Insurance ........................... 16405.23 Wellmark, Insurance .....................138100.75 Grand Total ...................................345457.07 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, FORM OF CONTRACT, AND ESTIMATED COST CITY OF SPILLVILLE, IOWA WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS 2024 CONTRACT A PUMPING STATION AND STORAGE TANK CONTRACT B MAIN STREET WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: The City Council of Spillville, Iowa, will hold a public hearing on the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract, and estimate of cost for the Water System Improvements 2024 Contract A Pumping Station and Storage Tank and Contract B Main Street Water Main Replacement projects in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 26, Code of Iowa, at 6:00 p.m. on the 19th day of March, 2024, at City Hall, 440 S. Main Street, Spillville, Iowa. Said proposed plans, specifications, form of contract, and estimated cost are now on file in the office of the City Clerk. At said hearing any interested person may appear and file objections thereto.

The Water System Improvements 2024 project consists of: Contract A - the construction of a water pumping facility and ground storage reservoir with associated site work.

The pumping facility includes three identical vertical multi-stage pumps with hydropneumatics pressure tanks. The building consists of a stick framed, vinyl sided building with wood trusses. The approximate exterior dimensions of the building is 37’ by 21’. The pumping facility will include a standby generator and controls. The proposed ground storage reservoir is to have an approximate useable volume of 60,000 gallons. Miscellaneous site work for the pumping facility and ground storage reservoir are also included in the project.

The ground storage reservoir will be bid with two options for tank materials: glass fused to steel and epoxy coated to steel.

Bidders are required to submit a bid for both options. The Owner will determine the tank material option for basis of award.

Contract B - the replacement of approximately 840 lineal feet of 6” water main and 2,300 lineal feet of 8” water main. Included in the project will be water main appurtenances and water service replacement and associated appurtenances. Surface restoration for the project includes approximately 1,800 lineal feet of PCC curb and gutter, approximately 320 square yards of PCC pavement patching, and approximately 640 tons of HMA pavement replacement along with miscellaneous driveway and sidewalk replacements and areas of seeding.

The Contract A Pumping Station and Storage Tank project will be constructed at 440 S. Main Street. Contract B Main Street Water Main Replacement will be constructed on Main Street from City Hall to just north of Mill Street in the City of Spillville, Iowa.

Published by order of the City Council given on the 6th day of February, 2024.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024 Public Notice of Storm Water Discharge Winneshiek Medical Center intends to submit a Notice of Intent to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for coverage under the NPDES General Permit NO. 2 “Storm Water Discharge Associated with Industrial Activity for Construction Activities.”

The storm water discharge will be from construction activities. The project is located at the existing Winneshiek Medical Center campus at 901 Montgomery Street, Decorah, Iowa in Winneshiek County. Runoff from this project will flow into the Upper Iowa River.

Comments may be submitted to the Storm Water Discharge Coordinator, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division, 502 E 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-0034. The public may review the Notice of Intent from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the above address after it has been received by the department.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EVELYN M. BIGLER, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016276 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Evelyn M. Bigler, Deceased, who died on or about January 18, 2024: You are hereby notified that on February 13, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Evelyn M. Bigler, deceased, bearing date of November 29, 2010, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Rhonda Olsgard and Roxanne Johnson have been appointed 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 2-24-2024.

Rhonda Olsgard, Co-Executor of Estate 2084 Town Line Rd. Decorah, IA 52101 Roxanne Johnson, Co-Executor of Estate 23065 County 22 Harmony, MN 55939 William J. Shafer, ICIS#: AT007218 Attorney for Executors Shafer & Shafer Law, PPLC 23 Allamakee St. Waukon, IA 52172 Date of second publication: February 29, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 22 & 29, 2024

Help Wanted

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Robert M. McQueen, DECEASED. PROBATE NO. ESPR 016277 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, OF APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR, AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Robert M. McQueen, Deceased, who died on or about January 20, 2024: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 13th day of February, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Robert M. McQueen, deceased, bearing date of December 21, 2001, and First Codicil dated February 13, 2006, were admitted to probate in the abovenamed Court and that Decorah Bank & Trust was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

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

Dated this 16th day of February, 2024.

Decorah Bank & Trust Company Executor of Estate 202 E. Water Street Decorah, IA 52101 Jana Evelsizer Olson ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-2959 Email: jana.olson@ andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: February 29, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 22 & 29, 2024

World Day of Prayer March 1

Shooting Star Native Seeds is seeking a

Seed Plant & Production Specialist

Responsibilities include cleaning and processing all native grass and wildflower seed, as well as assisting with field maintenance and harvesting. Full-time, year-round with overtime available. Position includes physical labor & outdoor work.

Job description & application available at

shootingstarnativeseed.com

or at Shooting Star Native Seeds, 20740 Co. Rd. 33, Spring Grove, MN

9-4-JP-12

Board Minutes February 12, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am February 12, 2024 with all members present.

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

Tara Hoffert and Tom Bushman, Community Insurance of Iowa, met with the Board to review the Iowa Communities Insurance Pool renewal information for the County’s Property, Liability, and Work Comp insurance. They warned the industry is seeing unusually high increases in premiums and declining coverages, and the ICAP renewal for the County will also.

Dan Marx, County Sheriff, joined the Board to discuss the request by the Sheriffs’ Deputies Union to reopen the Collective Bargaining Agreement to negotiate wages for next fiscal year. The Board will plan a closed session with John Anderson, their Collective Bargaining negotiator, to discuss the strategy should they choose to open negotiations.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to appoint Jeffrey Getchell to the remainder of the term of Zachary Fromm, who recently resigned from the Historic Preservation Commission. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Vermace to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting, the claims filed with the Board, and to approve the liquor licenses for Bluffton Bar and Festina Community Center. Motion carried unanimously.

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

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to adopt resolution 24-33, providing for a public hearing and bid procedures for the potential sale of land in the Freeport Industrial Park.

The public hearing will be held on March 18, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. Motion carried by roll call vote with Vick, Kelsay, and Langreck voting aye; and Vermace and Faldet voting nay.

Public notice will be published as required.

Jon Lubke, IT and GIS Director, met with the Board to discuss the issues with the audio/ visual system installed by CTI. Jon will work with other vendors and CTI to see what other steps can be taken to address the issues with hearing in the audience area of the room.

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to discuss road department projects and budget. Mike Weis, Engineering Technician, discussed options for the W14 project. Kueny presented the FY25 budget and discussed the 5-year road plan. He will continue to work on the 5-year plan and associated financial planning.

Vermace was absent for the remainder of the meeting.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, February 19, 2024. Motion carried unanimously.

ATTEST Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Claims 02-12-2024 General Basic Fund AcenTek, Telephone Service............... 511.83 Air Chek, Inc., Supplies ......................370.00 AireSpring, Telephone Service ........... 405.58 Allamakee Co Solid Waste, Bale Purchase ....................................351.58 Allamakee-Clayton Electric, Services .. 52.80 Alliant Energy, Utilities .................... 3140.84 Amazon Capital Services, Supplies .. 2920.95 Anderson Law Office, Legal Services ................................. 3309.25 Andy’s Speed Lube, Services ............. 180.00 Aramark Uniform Services, Services . 129.00 ArcaSearch LLC, Services ................4402.00 Arrowhead Scientific, Inc., Supplies.....79.77 AT&T Mobility, Cellular Service........764.72 Bacon Concrete, LLC, Services ............ 60.00 Linus Barloon, Services ...................... 520.70 BDH Technology LLP, Maintenance Agreement ................... 250.00 Lloyd Billman, Payment .....................628.00 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service ............................71.58 Bodensteiner Implement Company, Services ............................................... 30.24 Savanna Brusse, Mileage ....................259.29 Calmar Motors, Services..................... 571.41 Capital One, Payment ........................... 31.86 Carquest Auto Parts, Parts..................... 36.78 Casper Plumbing & Heating, Inc, Services ............................................. 498.75 CCDA, Dues ......................................... 40.00 CenturyLink, Telephone Service......... 680.14 CFN Mini Storage, Lease ...................660.00 Charm-Tex, Inc., Supplies................. 2900.80 City of Decorah, Services ................. 1237.80 Column Software PBC, Publications .. 453.78 Court View Place LLP, Payment ....... 1820.00 Culligan, Services ...............................225.49 Roger Dahlen, Reimbursement .............25.00 DALCO, Supplies ............................... 236.98 Decorah Ace Hardware, Supplies ....... 143.71 Decorah Community Schools, Services ............................................. 187.70 Decorah Newspapers, Publications ...1006.85 Decorah Rental & Sales, Equipment Rental................................40.00 Decorah Tire Service, Services ............. 77.51 Fareway Stores, Supplies .................... 781.91 Farmers Union Co-op, Supplies............ 50.16 Fashion Floor Center, Services ........... 866.90 John Fels, Reimbursement .................... 25.00 Fisk Farm & Home Inc., Supplies ........ 20.35 Fixxit, LLC, Services ..........................937.02 Fredericksburg Vet Clinic, Services .... 212.45 Galls, LLC, Supplies .............................48.23 Government Forms & Supplies, Supplies ............................................. 852.16 George L. Grosz, Services ..................959.40 Hageman Cleaning, Services .............. 200.00 Kayla Hageman, Reimbursement .........40.00 John Halverson, Reimbursement .......... 25.00 Hanson Tire Service Inc., Services .....892.38 Healthcare First, Services ................... 111.02 Lori Hemesath, Mileage...................... 572.18 P.J. Herold, Services..............................70.00 Penny Herold, Mileage .......................380.56 Rachel Herold, Mileage ...................... 202.34 Sally Herold, Mileage ......................... 336.34 Logan Hopp, Reimbursement ............... 65.00 Hovey Repair, Services ....................... 388.25 Huber’s Store, Supplies......................... 30.45 Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, Registration ....................................... 250.00 Iowa Narcotics Officer Assoc, Registration ....................................... 600.00 Fatimetu Jatri Emhamed, Reimbursement ...................................25.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies ...........634.43 Ian Kemp, Services .............................189.00 Kieck’s Career Apparel, Supplies ....... 288.95 Nancy Kovarik, Reimbursement........... 25.00 Brenda Kreitzer, Reimbursement ..........32.47 Ethel Barbara Krueger, Services .........129.97 Kwik Trip Extended Network, Fuel ..4805.87 LA Communications, Inc, Advertising ........................................304.00 Steve Lennon, Services ....................... 701.10 Leon’s Auto Repair, Services ..............408.97 Logistics Recycling, Inc., Services .....273.84 Mail Services, Services ....................... 671.34 Anna Mark M.D., Services .................405.00 Martin Bros. Distributing, Supplies .... 539.90 Dan Marx, Reimbursement ................... 40.00 Jamie McConnell,, Reimbursement ...... 25.00 Hubert McGee, Services ..................... 550.44 McKesson Medical Surgical, Supplies249.86 Mediacom, Services ............................ 191.81 Hanna Meyer, Reimbursement............142.36 Microbac Laboratories, Inc., Services .. 17.50 Stacy Miller, Mileage .......................... 411.38 Motorola Solutions, Inc., License Agreement.......................... 1023.75 Mr. Carpet’s Floor Shop, Inc., Material ........................................... 1100.00 Evan Neubauer, Reimbursement......... 422.36 Olson Explosives, Fuel ......................... 21.46 Lana Oyloe, Services ..........................516.60 Panasonic Connect, Equipment .......... 283.00 Lonnie Pierce, Reimbursement ............. 25.00 POC Network Technologies, Services .. 10.50 Quadient Fiance USA, Inc., Postage. 1500.00 Quadient Leasing USA, Inc., Lease Agreement .................................65.85 Olivia Rasmussen, Services .............. 1107.00 Reliable Dumpster Services Inc, Services ............................................. 180.00 Ricoh USA Inc, Maintenance Agreement ................... 157.80 Ricoh USA Inc, Maintenance Agreement ................... 761.01 Lacey Rogers, Services ....................... 170.00 Sanitation Resources, Inc, Services .... 724.00 Jayne Schultz, Reimbursement .............89.06 Schumacher Elevator, Services ........... 562.57 SERVPRO of Black Hawk County, Services ............................................. 312.84 Julie Shimek, Reimbursement .............. 45.31 Corey Sims, Services ........................1845.00 Gordon Snitker, Reimbursement........... 25.00 Ben Steines, Reimbursement ................25.00 Steve’s Car Care, Services ....................39.00 Storey Kenworthy, Supplies.............. 2448.92 John L. Storkamp, Reimbursement.......25.00 Margaret Storkamp, Services ..............631.40 Superior Building Centers...............Materials 1682.74 Thryv ........................................... Advertising 19.50 Truck Country of Iowa ..................... Services 3001.80 Uline, Supplies .................................. 1092.14 US Police Canine Association, Membership ........................................ 50.00

World Day of Prayer will be held Friday, March 1, at the First United Methodist Church, 302 W. Broadway, Decorah.

Coffee time will begin at 9 a.m. in fellowship hall and the service will follow at 9:20 a.m.

All are welcome to attend. A lift is available at the Broadway Street entrance.

World Day of Prayer is a worldwide ecumenical movement of Christian women of many traditions who come together to observe a common day of prayer and action each year on the first Friday in March. The 2024 program was written by Palestine Christian women. Martha Monson Lowe will be the guest speaker.

The Howard County Sheriff’s Office is hiring for a

Dispatcher/Jailer Position This job will require both dispatching for all emergency and non-emergency calls and jailer responsibilities in the Howard County Jail. A high school diploma or GED is required, and you must pass a background check.

Pick up an application at the Howard County Sheriff’s Office in Cresco, IA or call 563-547-3535 to have an application emailed or mailed to you.

Starting wage is $20.00 with added shift differential for late shifts.

After a 6-month probation the base wage will increase to $22.22 with yearly step increases after that.

This job will be open until filled.

Some of the benefits include health insurance, life insurance, flex spending and IPERS. 9-4-PJ-12

MIDWEST REGIONAL ROUTES Growth Oppurtunities - Now Hiring

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Call Tim Jensen for an Interview today: 1-800-772-1734 Winneshiek County Secondary Roads will be accepting applications for the full-time position of

Assistant to the Engineer

at the office of the Winneshiek County Engineer, 201 W Main St, Decorah, IA 52101.

Up to two qualified individuals will be hired. Applications and job description are available at the Engineers Office and www.winneshiekcounty.org/jobs.html.

Minimum salary is $67,055 with actual salary based on qualifications and experience. Applications are due March 11, 2024 at 4pm. EOE

EOE

Let’s talk energy! Last year the legislature passed a bill that required the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) to hire an outside consultant and take a deep dive into Iowa’s energy code sections. This is something that hasn’t been looked at in 20 years. The IUB went through a procurement process and hired London Economics International (LEI) to conduct the research and throughout the summer they held three meetings to engage with all levels of stakeholders in the energy sector. The result of these meetings was a 230page report from LEI giving several recommendations to the legislature.

I am going to talk about one of their findings and the subject of a bill that I introduced: Integrated Resource Planning or IRP. Iowa is one of a very few states that don’t require IRP or some sort of long-term planning process for its rate-regulated utilities.

So, what is IRP? IRP is a planning process that requires utilities to go through a shortand long-term planning process for generation, storage, transmission and distribution. This process would outline the utilities’ future plans for all of the above-mentioned categories.

The process as proposed would require them to do a five and 20 year look ahead and would re-

quire the utilities to share with the IUB what those plans entail.

The IUB would then be able to weigh in on whether they felt the proposal would meet the energy needs of Iowans and provide a stable three-legged approach to ensure Iowans have access to adequate, reliable and affordable energy.

I feel it is incumbent upon us as policy makers to have the ability to have a peek under the hood, if you will, as to how our Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs) plan to provide Iowans with all three legs of that stool.

We allow our IOUs to operate as a monopoly in the state, so the only way that an Iowan can change their electric provider is to move to another provider’s territory. Along with that, the IOUs can recoup capital investments in their infrastructure through rate cases, so not only are Iowans captive but also essentially collateral.

SF2244 is a bill I have introduced that would create the framework for an IRP process in Iowa. It requires the utilities to provide the Iowa Utilities Board a look at their short- and long-range planning process and allows the IUB to provide input on those plans and voice their concerns on those plans to ensure they provide adequate, reliable and affordable energy for many years to come.

The current elected officials representing Winneshiek County work to keep their constituents in the know with weekly columns during the four-month legislative session. Due to space constraints, the Public Opinion is unable to print both columns every week, but invite readers to visit www.driftlessjournal.com to view the full columns they submitted on the activities in the capital.

‘Wilderman’s Treetop Tales’ brings musical, visual entertainment to library Saturday

Musician and storyteller Chad Elliott will bring his book “Wilderman’s Treetop Tales” to the Decorah Public Library Saturday, March 2. A morning filled with musical performances and captivating visual storytelling for families with children of all ages will begin at 10 a.m. on the library mezzanine.

Through a unique blend of giggle-worthy songs and poetry, Elliott will take listeners on a multi-media journey that is sure to inspire and spark the imagination.

No registration is required.

For more information, contact Sophie Nall at snall@decorahlibrary.org.

Service Notices

SANDY FELKE, 75, of Dec- rural Decorah with Rev. Jenorah, died Saturday, Feb. 24, nifer Edinger presiding. Buri2024, at her home in Decorah. al will be in the church cemeFuneral Services will be EARN at 11 tery.

REGISTER TO A Visitation will be from 10 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 29, at a.m. until the service on Satthe Washington Prairie Lu- urday morning at the church. theran Church, 1725 Washington Prairie Rd., Decorah, VIOLA BOHR, 95, of DecSCHOLARSHIP with Rev. Jennifer Edinger orah, passed away Monday, presiding. Burial will be in Feb. 26, 2024, at Wellington the church cemetery.

Visita- college Place students Nursingand Home Iowa high school students, theirin Dection will be held after 10 a.m. orah.

Mass of Christian Iowa high school seniors may register for a chance toa Buriparents or guardian can sign up now for a chance at at the$1,000 church onofinto Thursday al worth will be held each. at 11 a.m., Frireceive one 25 scholarships $2,000 deposit a college savings account. morning. day, March 1, at St. Benedict To be considered, students should: Iowa high school seniors may register for a chance to Catholic Church, Register online by March 29, 2024, Register between Nov. 1, 2021, and March 11, 2022, at 307 West receive one of 25 scholarships worth $2,000 each.

ARLIN BRANHAGEN, 75, of Main St., Decorah, with Rev. at www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Savings. www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Know-How To be considered, students should: Decorah, died Sunday, Feb. Donald Hertges presiding.

Follow the emailed instructions to planning complete two online participants receive free college Register 1, 2021, and March at St. Fran25, 2024, All at Winnbetween Med inNov. DecBurial will11,be2022, in the tutorials and a related assessment before 4 p.m. on March 11. and financing tip emails. www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Know-How orah. Funeral services will be cis de Sales Catholic CemeFollowa.m., the emailed instructions to complete two online held at 11:30 Saturday, tery in Ossian.

Visitation will a related assessment before 9:30 4 p.m. on Marchuntil 11. the March 2,tutorials at theand Washington be from a.m., Prairie Lutheran Church, time of service at the church 1725 Washington Prairie Rd., on Friday morning.

$

1,000

www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Know-How

www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Know-How www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Know-How

9-3-PJ-12

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Obituaries James Slitor

James Lewis “Jim” Slitor, 83, of Decorah, passed away on Feb. 22, 2024, at Wellington Place with his loving wife, Sherry, by his side.

Jim was born on Jan. 19, 1941, in Waukon, the son of Truman G. and James Slitor Gwen (Kelly) Slitor. He graduated from Waukon High School in 1959 and earned his BA degree at U.N.I in 1963. He taught junior high and high school math and science in Waterloo for two years before moving to Florida. Jim was employed for five years at IBM, Boca Raton, Fla., as a computer programmer. After obtaining a MA from Florida Atlantic University, he became a statistics instructor in FAU’s college of social science where he taught for over 30 years while pursuing his PhD at Florida International University. Additionally, he taught International Relations through the Lifelong Learning Center at FAU. Jim was a man of many talents and interests. He especially

Cody Haugen

Cody Dakota Haugen, 24, of Colo, Iowa, passed away Feb. 14, 2024, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.

Cody was born Nov. 15, 1999, in Ames, the son of Paul and Tammy (Davis) Cody Haugen Haugen. He graduated from Collins-Maxwell High School in 2018. Cody had worked as a framer for Hickory Custom Carpentry for several years, and recently as grounds keeper for TMC Transportation.

Cody enjoyed tinkering with

Donald Pankow

Donald William Pankow, 88, of Cedar Falls and formerly of Decorah and Cresco, died Monday, Feb. 26, 2024, at Western Home in Cedar Falls.

Born on Jan. 20, 1936, in rural Winneshiek County to Carl and Donald Pankow Catherine (Casey) Pankow, Donald was the eldest of four boys. He was baptized on Feb. 2 at St. Benedict Church in Decorah and from an early age, he demonstrated qualities of generosity, kindness and a caring nature.

Donald attended school in Decorah, graduating from high school in 1956. His commitment to his community was evident as he assisted his father in maintaining St. Benedict Church in Decorah. On April 1, 1967, in Cresco, he married the love of his life, Mabel Anderson. The couple established their home in Cresco and shared many years of joy and companionship until Mabel’s passing.

Following this, Donald moved to Decorah, where he continued to embrace life with open arms.

Donald was a man of simple pleasures, finding joy in activities such as fishing and bike rides around Decorah.

His mornings were spent at the local barbershop, engaging in friendly conversations with friends. A dedicated community member, he also took pride in serving coffee at the bakery every morning and tending to the flowers at the Decorah State Bank.

Known for his love of fami-

loved spending time with family and friends. He had a wonderful sense of humor that made him a hit wherever he went. He loved traveling with his wife, Sherry, enjoyed reading, jogging on the beach in Florida, playing the piano, public speaking and working in the yard. He loved animals and had many pets throughout his lifetime.

Jim is survived by his wife of 35 years, Sheryl Ann (Hooker) Slitor, who he married on Sept. 2,1988; sister, Susan (Charles) LeMaster of Charles City; brother-in-law, James “Jim” Hooker (Ruth) of Tarpon Springs, Fla.; two sisters-inlaw: Arlene Slitor of Marquette, Mich., and Jacqueline “Jackie” Hooker of Clarksville, Ind. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Truman Wentworth Slitor.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, March 1, at Helms Funeral Home, 306 E. Water St., Decorah, with Rev. David Severtson officiating.

Visitation will be from 12 p.m. until the time of the service Friday at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Oakland Cemetery in Waukon at a later date.

cars and building and fixing various things. He loved being with family, friends and his cats.

Cody is survived by his father, Paul Haugen of Decorah; his mother, Tammy Haugen (Brad Becvar) of Colo; three brothers: Nick Welch of Des Moines, Lance Haugen of Colo, and Paul J. Haugen of Decorah; a sister, Kylene Ellis (Haugen) of Ossian; and two nephews: Milo Haugen of Colo, and Elliott Ellis of Ossian.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday, March 1, from 5-8 p.m. at the Maxwell Area Community Center in Maxwell, Iowa.

ly, Donald cherished moments spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His passion for family vacations, car rides, and his enthusiasm for trains, gardening, polka and dancing brought joy to those around him. The Train Museum in Boone, Iowa, held a special place in his heart, symbolizing one of his favorite excursions.

Donald is survived by son, Travis (Daisy Heins) Pankow of Elma; two daughters: Michele (Ron) Farley of Aplington, Iowa, and Darlene (Riley) McAlpin of Waterloo; four grandchildren: Jessie (Rachel) Farley of Indianola, Iowa, Ashley (Andy) Peters of Wellsburg, Iowa, Ashton Pankow of Elma, and Alexis Pankow of Elma; seven great-grandchildren: Lyle, Letty, Alice and Maeva Farley, and Edwin, Abigail and Luther Peters; brother, Robert Pankow of Dubuque; sister-inlaw, Nancy Pankow of Decorah; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mabel, on Oct. 13, 2000; daughter, Dawn Marie Pankow in infancy; and two brothers: Marvin and Wayne Pankow.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, March 1, at Jerico Lutheran Church in rural New Hampton with Rev. Peter Faugstad presiding. Friends may greet the family two hours prior to the service on Friday at the church.

Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www. hugebackfuneralhome.com.

Public Notices On March 16, 2024, at 4:00 pm, a sale of personal property of Jeff Kugel or James Kugel will be held at unit #72, Store-it-Storage, 2340 East Ridge Rd., Decorah IA. The items will be sold to the highest bidder who must be present. Items include but not limited to: bed headboard, fishing poles, chest of drawers, shovels, rakes, other furniture and tools, duck decoys, sportsman collectibles, and many other items.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29 & March 7, 2024 NOTICE TO BIDDERS CITY OF DECORAH, IOWA General Notice City of Decorah (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project: DECORAH 2024 DRY RUN DIVERSION CHANNEL IMPROVEMENTS Sealed bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the Decorah City Hall Office located at 400 Claiborne Drive, P.O. Box 138 in Decorah, Iowa 52101, until Thursday, March 14, 2024, at 10:00 AM local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.

The Project includes the following Work: Clearing and grubbing, excavation and grading, revetment, gabion baskets, erosion controls and seeding.

The project location(s) is as follows: The stormwater diversion channel is located approximately 1,000ft west from the intersection of Iowa Highway 9 and US Highway 52; all in the City of Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa.

Bids will be received for a single prime contract. Make bids on all items of Work.

One contract will be awarded. The Contractor may begin construction upon execution of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) with a Substantial Completion date of June 30, 2025, as shown in the NTP. Final payment will be made upon final acceptance of the Work.

Submit a Bid Bond with each Bid in accordance with the Bidding Documents. The Bid Bond will be a certified or cashier’s check payable to the Owner, drawn on a solvent Iowa bank or a bank chartered under the laws of the United States, or a certified share draft drawn on a credit union in Iowa or chartered under the laws of the United States, in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the Bid, or a Bid Bond executed by a corporation authorized to contract as a Surety in the State of Iowa, in the penal sum of five percent (5%) of the Bid. The Owner may, at their discretion, reject any or all bids, waive informalities, irregularities or technicalities, or accept the bid and award the Project.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish bonds and insurance, in accordance with Article 6 of the Contract for Construction of a Small Project, when the Contract is delivered to the Owner.

All Work and material are to be in strict compliance with the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract and estimate of cost now on file at the office of the City Engineer, and by this reference made a part thereof as though fully set out and incorporated herein.

By virtue of the statutory authority, a preference will be given to products and provisions grown and coal produced within the State of Iowa and to Iowa.

In accordance with Iowa statutes, a resident bidder shall be allowed a preference as against a nonresident bidder from a state or foreign country if that state or foreign country gives or requires any preference to bidders from that state or foreign country, including but not limited to any preference to bidders, the imposition of any type of labor force preference, or any other form of preferential treatment to bidders or laborers from that state or foreign country. The preference allowed shall be equal to the preference given or required by the state or foreign country in which the nonresident bidder is a resident. In the instance of a resident labor force preference, a nonresident bidder shall apply the same resident labor force preference to a public improvement in this state as would be required in the construction of a public improvement by the state or foreign country in which the nonresident bidder is a resident.

Obtaining Bidding Documents Bidding Documents for the Project may be obtained either in printed or electronic formats for free.

Information and Bidding Documents for the Project may be obtained in electronic format at the following designated website: QuestCDN.com Ebid Reference No.: 8992880 Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the designated website. Prospective Bidders are urged to register with the designated website as a plan holder, even if Bidding Documents are obtained from a plan room or source other than the designated website in either electronic or paper format.

The designated website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project.

Information and Bidding Documents for the Project may be obtained in printed format from the Issuing Office Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM: The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: City of Decorah Street Department 108 Railroad Avenue Decorah, IA 52101 Ph: 1-563-382-2157 / E: cityengineer@ decorahia.org Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available in any format. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the designated website and Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the designated website or Issuing Office.

This Advertisement is issued by: Owner: City of Decorah By: Lorraine Borowski Title: Mayor Date: February 19, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY VALLEY STRONG CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff, vs.

JOHN QUANDAHL, SHANNON QUANDAHL, PARTIES IN POSSESSION, AND All Unknown claimants, and all Persons Unknown Claiming any Right, Title or Interest in and to the following described real estate situated in Winneshiek County, Iowa, to wit: LOT 1 OF 1 OF HAVEN HILLS SECOND SUBDIVISION, WHICH IS LOCATED IN LOT 3 OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 97 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST OF THE 5TH P.M., AND ALL KNOWN AND UNKNOWN CLAIMANTS AND ALL PERSONS KNOWN OR UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST AND ALL OF THEIR HEIRS, SPOUSES, ASSIGNS, GRANTEES, LEGATEES, DEVISEES AND ALL OF THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS, Defendants.

CASE NO. EQCV026996 ORIGINAL NOTICE OF PUBLICATION TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANT(S): You are notified that a petition has been filed in the office of the clerk of this court, naming you as a defendant in this action, for foreclosure of the property legally described as: LOT 1 OF HAVEN HILLS SECOND SUBDIVISION, WHICH IS LOCATED IN LOT 3 OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 97 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST OF THE 5TH P.M. Plaintiff also seeks to reform the mortgage, which has an erroneous legal description. ‘Exhibit A’ to the subject Mortgage should be reformed to conform to the intention of the parties at the time the Mortgage was executed, as follows, to wit: LOT 1 OF 1 OF HAVEN HILLS SECOND SUBDIVISION, WHICH IS LOCATED IN LOT 3 OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 97 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST OF THE 5TH P.M. (Mortgaged Premises) due to a default in making contractual payments on a promissory note; for judgment in rem against the mortgaged premises for the principal amount of $35,949.25 plus interest as provided in the Note and as may have been subsequently adjusted thereafter, fees, costs, and attorney’s fees, for a declaration of the sum due as a lien on the premises, a declaration that the mort-

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, February 29, 2023 5 gage is prior and superior to all of the other liens on the property, for a special execution to issue for sale of the Mortgaged Premises at sheriff’s sale, for the issuance of a writ of possession, for a appointment of a receiver upon plaintiff’s application, and for such further relief the Court deems just and equitable.

FOR FURTHER PARTICULARS SEE THE PETITION NOW CONTAINED IN THE COURT FILE NOTICE THE PLAINTIFF HAS ELECTED FORECLOSURE WITHOUT REDEMPTION. THIS MEANS THAT THE SALE OF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY WILL OCCUR PROMPTLY AFTER ENTRY OF JUDGMENT UNLESS YOU FILE WITH THE COURT A WRITTEN DEMAND TO DELAY THE SALE. IF YOU FILE A WRITTEN DEMAND, THE SALE WILL BE DELAYED UNTIL THREE MONTHS FROM ENTRY OF JUDGMENT IF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY IS YOUR RESIDENCE AND IS A ONE-FAMILY OR TWO-FAMILY DWELLING OR UNTIL TWO MONTHS FROM ENTRY OF JUDGMENT IF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY IS NOT YOUR RESIDENCE OR IS YOUR RESIDENCE BUT NOT A ONE-FAMILY OR TWO-FAMILY DWELLING. YOU WILL HAVE NO RIGHT OF REDEMPTION AFTER THE SALE. THE PURCHASER AT THE SALE WILL BE ENTITLED TO IMMEDIATE POSSESSION OF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY. YOU MAY PURCHASE AT THE SALE. ...... IF YOU DO NOT FILE A WRITTEN DEMAND TO DELAY THE SALE AND IF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY IS YOUR RESIDENCE AND IS A ONE-FAMILY OR TWO-FAMILY DWELLING, THEN A DEFICIENCY JUDGMENT WILL NOT BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU. IF YOU DO FILE A WRITTEN DEMAND TO DELAY THE SALE, THEN A DEFICIENCY JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU IF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY ARE INSUFFICIENT TO SATISFY THE AMOUNT OF THE MORTGAGED DEBT AND COSTS. IF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY IS NOT YOUR RESIDENCE OR IS NOT A ONE-FAMILY OR TWO-FAMILY DWELLING, THEN A DEFICIENCY JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU WHETHER OR NOT YOU FILE A WRITTEN DEMAND TO DELAY THE SALE. You are further notified that unless you serve and, within a reasonable time thereafter, file a motion or answer on or before April 3, 2024 in the Iowa District Court for Winneshiek County, Iowa, at the Courthouse in Decorah, Iowa, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Petition. ... This case has been filed in a county that utilizes electronic filing. Please review Iowa Court Rules Chapter 16 for general rules and information on electronic filing and division VI of Chapter 16 regarding the protection of personal information in court filings.

If you need assistance to participate in court due to a disability, call the disability coordinator at 319-833-3274. Persons who are hearing or speech impaired may call Relay Iowa TTY (1-800-735-2942). Disability coordinators cannot provide legal advice.

IMPORTANT: YOU ARE ADVISED TO SEEK LEGAL ADVICE AT ONCE TO PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS. Iowa Judicial Branch Case No. EQCV026996 County Winneshiek Case Title VALLEY STRONG CREDIT UNION VS JOHN QUANDAHL ET AL You must file your Appearance and Answer on the Iowa Judicial Branch eFile System, unless the attached Petition and Original Notice contains a hearing date for your appearance, or unless the court has excused you from filing electronically (see Iowa Court Rule 16.302).

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

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

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

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

Persons who are hearing or speech impaired may call Relay Iowa TTY (1-800735-2942). For more information, see www. iowacourts.gov/for-the-public/ada/. Disability access coordinators cannot provide legal advice.

Date Issued 01/19/2024 09:00:05 AM District Clerk of Court or/by Clerk’s Designee of Winneshiek County /s/ Denise Barton-Franzen Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, March 7 & 14, 2024 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING To Whom It May Concern: Notice is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, have set for March 18, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Board of Supervisors room in the Winneshiek County Courthouse, Decorah, Iowa, as the time and place for hearing on the proposed sale of the Winneshiek County real estate being more particularly described as follows: A. The South, approximately, 4.59 acres located in Lot 1 of 9, excluding the east 7 feet thereof, of the Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter in Section 13, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M. in Winneshiek County, Iowa. This property is located in Parcel No. 111337700300, of the Winneshiek County Records; and, B. Lot 1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1, excluding the east 7 feet thereof adjacent to 170th Street, of the East Half of the Northwest Quarter in Section 24, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M. in Winneshiek County, Iowa.

This property is located in Parcel No. 112412700100, of the Winneshiek County Records; and, C. Lot 2-1, excluding the east 7 feet thereof, of the Northeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter lying North of County Road A52/ Old Stage Road in Section 24, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M. in Winneshiek County, Iowa. That portion of Parcel No. 112415100100 lying North of County Road A52/Old Stage Road; and, A. The real estate lying 7 feet west of the west right-of-way line of 170th Street between Parcel No. 112412700100 and Parcel No. 111337700300. This parcel is bounded on the west by a straight line connecting the Northwest corner of Parcel No. 112412700100 and the Southwest corner of Parcel No. 111337700300.

At said time and place, consideration will be given to the sale of the subject real estate.

Winneshiek County proposes to sell the subject property for the highest amount bid for individual or multiple parcels, reserving the right to reject any and all bids. The successful bidders for Property A, Property B, Property C and Property D will be required to survey the properties prior to conveyance of the properties. Bid forms will be available from the Winneshiek County Auditor.

Property A, Property B, Property C and Property D will also be sold subject to a restrictive covenant that requires all of Property A, B, C and D to be subject to the rules, regulations and standards imposed for Floodway Fringe property as set forth in Winneshiek County Ordinance No. 24-250, an ORDINANCE AMENDING THE WINNESHIEK COUNTY ZONING ORDINANCE BY THE ADDITION OF FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT CHAPTER 10. Said Ordinance was filed on January 29, 2024, as Document 2024-192 of the Winneshiek County Records.

Property A, Property B, Property C and Property D will be sold subject to a restrictive covenant that prohibits the following Winneshiek County Zoning Ordinance; M-2 General Industrial District uses: a) Fat rendering, fertilizer, or glue manufacture. b) Garbage, offal, or dead animal reduction. c) Salvage yards and/or junkyards including auto wrecking and salvage, used parts sales, and junk, iron, rags, or paper storage or baling. No part of the front yard is to be used for the conduct of business in any manner except for the parking of customer or employee vehicles. Any premises on which such activities are conducted shall be wholly enclosed

with a building or by a wall or fence, reasonably maintained, not less than six (6) feet in height, and in which the openings or cracks are less than fifteen percent (15%) of the area. d) Slaughter houses, meat packing and processing plants, and stockyards. e) Hide-trading or tannery. f) Adult entertainment business in compliance with Chapter 335 of the Code of Iowa.

The restrictive covenants on all Properties will be permanent and will run with the land.

At said time and place, arguments for and against the sale of the property will be heard and considered. A copy of the resolution setting this public hearing is available for review at the Office of the Winneshiek County Auditor. Bids are due in the Winneshiek March 14, 2024.

By order of the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, this 12th day of February 2024.

WlNNESHIEK COUNTY AUDlTOR Benjamin Steines Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024 Northeast Iowa School Insurance Trust February 20, 2024, 2:00 pm Zoom Meeting On February 20, 2024, the Northeast Iowa School Insurance Trust (NEISIT) board meeting was called to order at 2:00 pm by Board President Robert Busch from Starmont.

Members present: South WinneshiekKris Einck; Allamakee -Jay Mathis; Starmont - Rob Busch, Carmen Swales, and Katie Taylor; Howard-Winneshiek- Kris Einck; Postville - Brendan Knudtson; Decorah - Tim Cronin and Darlene Woodhouse; New Hampton -Jay Jurrens; Midwest Group Benefits­ Rachel Narum; Assured Partners-Brian Huinker, and Justin Pieper.

Consent Agenda: Moved by Jay Mathis, seconded by Kris Einck Old Business New Business A... Discussion to allow Oelwein Schools to withdraw from NEISIT effective June 30, 2024. a. Motion by Jay Mathis to approve allowing Oelwein to withdraw from”NEISIT and to waive the 150 day notice requirement, seconded by Kris Einck. Motion carried unanimously.

Discussion Items: A. Waiting on quote from Reliance B. Waiting on quotes for dental and vision to present at the April meeting C. Adjourn a. Moved by Jay Jurrens and seconded by Jay Mathis to adjourn at 2:27 pm. Motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully Submitted, Carmen Swales, Secretary Robert Busch Board President Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024 City of Decorah Council Budget Work Session Monday February 19, 2024, at 5:00 PM Decorah City Council Chambers The City of Decorah Council Work Session was held Monday, February 19 2024, at 5:00 PM at Decorah City Council Chambers.

Present: Christopher Miculinich, Kirsten Olson, Steve Zittergruen, Randy Schissel, Ross Hadley, Emily Neal, and Brent Parker (arrived at 5:30PM) Steve Van Dyke from Strand and Associates presented the agreement and two task orders for the Decorah Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Project. The agreement was for the technical services of the project.

The task orders were for the design, bidding, and construction administration and for the solar feasibility study for the project. The council went through the information and asked questions of Steve Van Dyke.

Meeting adjourned at 5:36 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024 NOTICE OF CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSAL TO CONTINUE PARTICIPATION IN THE INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAM FOR THE DECORAH COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the Decorah Community School District, in the Counties of Winneshiek and Allamakee, State of Iowa, will hold a hearing upon its Resolution to Consider Continued Participation in the Instructional Support Program. The hearing will be held in the Central Administration Office, 1732 Old Stage Road, Decorah, Iowa, on March 11, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. The Board of Directors is considering continued participation in the Instructional Support Program as provided in Sections 257.18 through 257.21, Code of lowa, for a period of five years, commencing with the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

Additional funding for the Instructional Support Program for a budget year will be determined annually by the Board of Directors and will not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total regular program district cost for the budget year and moneys received under Section 257.14, Code of Iowa, as a budget adjustment for the budget year.

Moneys received by the District for the Instructional Support Program may be used for any general fund purpose.

The Instructional Support Program shall be funded by instructional support state aid and a combination instructional support property tax levied annually upon the taxable property within the School District commencing with the levy of property taxes for collection in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, and an instructional support income surtax imposed annually, the percent of income surtax to be determined by the Board for each budget year to be imposed upon the state individual income tax of each individual income taxpayer resident in the School District on December 31, 2026, and each year thereafter.

DECORAH COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Darlene Woodhouse Secretary of the Board of Directors Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024 February 19, 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.

Members present: Randy Schissel, Emily Neal, Kirsten Olson, Christopher Miculinich, Steven Zittergruen (Zoom), Ross Hadley, and Brent Parker Mark Muggli with the Decorah Historic Preservation Committee presented the annual report.

Consent agenda was presented. a. Minutes of the February 5, 2024, Meeting b. Claims c. Resolution Setting Public Hearing on Decorah 2024 Dry Run Diversion Channel Improvement Project d. Residential Tax Abatement at 217 Hilltop Drive -Alexandra White and Bruce Arendt e. Amendment Special Class C Retail Alcohol License-Ownership Change-Vesterheim Museum f. Amendment Class C Retail Alcohol License-Add Privilege-Convergence CiderWorks g. Renewal Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service-Leise Trolls LLC h. Renewal Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service-T’Bock’s Sports Bar and Grill i. Amendment Class B Alcohol License-Ownership Updates-Kwik Star #629 j. Amendment Class B Alcohol License-Ownership Updates-Kwik Star #1081 k. Amendment Class B Alcohol License-Ownership Updates-Kwik Star #1190 l. Approve Erdman Engineering Professional Services Agreement for Decorah 2024 Heivly Street Improvements-Utilities m. Approve Agreement for Technical Services with Strand Associates for Decorah Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements n. Approve Task Order 24-01 with Strand Associates for Design, Bidding, and Construction Administration for Decorah Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements o. Approve Task Order 24-02 with Strand Associates for Solar Feasibility Study for Decorah Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements Ross Hadley requested that letter O be removed from the consent agenda. Olson made a motion to approve the consent agenda except for letter 0. regarding Task Order 24-02 with Strand Associates.

Parker seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. The contract with Strand Associates for the solar feasibility study for the wastewater treatment plant was dis-

cussed. A consensus was reached to not move forward with the study. No action was taken.

Mayor Borowski opened the public hearing on amending Chapter 17.16 related to digital and electronic signs at 6:08 PM. Benji Nichols of 412 Oak Street gave a history of planning and zoning and why things were managed the way they were. The proposed changes will help with the process.

Does caution about allowing signs, especially digital, in all districts.

Mark Muggli of 722 Washington Street stated that the Decorah Historic Preservation Committee has appreciated the limitations that the city has put for electronic and digital signs in the C-3 District. The committee has not looked further into the matter for other districts, including historic districts.

Mayor Borowski closed the public hearing at 6:14 PM. Schissel made a motion to approve the first reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 17.16 regarding digital and electronic signs. Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Schissel, Miculinich, Olson.

Nays: Zittergruen, Hadley, Neal, Parker. Motion denied.

Schissel made a motion to approve the Aase Haugen ALTA Plat of Survey, Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote.

Ayes: Schissel, Miculinich, Hadley, Zittergruen, Olson, Parker. Nays: None. Neal abstained from the vote due to being related to an investor. Motion carried.

Hadley made a motion to approve the Hearthside Fireplace & More site plan with the following contingencies: 1. The site plan did not include the legal description of the property, the present zoning, or contour lines. This information should be provided as required.

4. The site plan does not show an accessible/ADA parking stall. Based on the number of stalls in the parking lot, a minimum of one van-accessible ADA parking stall is required.

5. No bicycle parking is shown on the site plan. A minimum of one bicycle parking stall needs to be provided.

Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote.

All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Hadley made a motion to accept the Decorah Parks and Recreation Rules and Regulations, Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Michelle Barness, representing the Sustainability Commission, spoke regarding the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant application. Barness explained the intentions of the program and how they would want to use this grant. They believe that this program would help tenants save up to $117,000.00 in energy costs over a ten-year period. This plan would be implemented at the Woolen Mill Apartments and the Washington Court Apartments. Also, part of the plan would be to offer free energy audits to lowincome households, followed by energy coaching to connect them with Inflation Reduction Act energy efficiency incentives.

City Manager, Travis Goedken, led the discussion on the fiscal year 2025 budget. He explained that the council will be setting the public hearing at the next council meeting in March and so if there is any interest in changing anything in the proposed budget, now would be the time to have that conversation.

Council pointed out that the non-profit requests for the NEICAC-Family Assistance and the Northeast Iowa Housing Trust Fund should funded with LMI Funds and use of Sustainability Funds to cover the difference of what is available for LMI funds and the amount of the requests.

Mayor Borowski announced that there are openings on the Human Rights Commission, the Sustainability Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and Civil Service Commission. The city will be accepting applications until filled.

Meeting adjourned at 7:27 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer 2/19/24 2/16/24 Payroll, Payroll................ 182,429.80 HAGEMAN, DEANA, REIMBURSEMENT......................... 334.01 PETTY CASH, POSTAGE................... 34.95 RELIANCE STANDARD, LIFE INSURANCE..........................443.75 ROW-HEYVELD, ZACH, REIMBURSEMENT...........................445.2 SOPHIA NALL, REIMBURSEMENT ..67.8 A&P FOOD EQUIP, SUPPLIES........... 15.58 ACE HARDWARE , SUPPLIES......... 302.43 ACENTEK, FEES....................................270 AIRESPRING, SERVICES.................270.38 AMAZON, SUPPLIES.......................... 42.84 ANDERSON WILMARTH VAN DER MAATTEN, SERVICES................. 2,753.00 ARTHAUS, SUPPLIES............................325 AT&T MOBILITY NATIONAL ACCOUNTS, CELL PHONE.............. 58.78 BAKER & TAYLOR, BOOKS ....... 2,008.61 BODENSTEINER IMP, PARTS.............. 1.75 BREMER, LOUANN, CLEANING....................................1,000.00 CARD SERVICE CENTER, SUPPLIES......................................4,401.18 CASPER PLBG & HTG, HVAC WORK.................................... 638.05 CHRIS A STORLIE, UTILITIES........488.68 CIVIC PLUS, LLC, CODE HOSTING....735 COPYLAND, COPIES............................ 2.52 COUNTRY GARDEN, PLANT................. 50 DECORAH CLEANERS, UNIFORM....21.6 DECORAH SCHOOLS, INTERNET.140.77 DECORAH ELECTRIC, SERVICES...................................... 1,764.64 DECORAH TIRE, TIRE............................. 55 DECORAH VET, EXAM....................244.45 DOG WASTE DEPOT, BAGS............ 259.98 DRIFTLESS MULTIMEDIA, PUBLICATION................................. 828.43 ERDMAN ENGINEERING ......... ANNUAL REPORT........................................... 2,403.00 FAREWAY, SUPPLIES....................... 212.69 FREEPORT WATER, WATER BILL................................. 2,717.79 FRONTIER MUDJACKING, SERVICES...................................... 2,800.00 FUSE TECHNIC , SERVICES.................700 GARY’S TRACTO, PARTS................ 138.18 GRAINGER, PARTS...........................197.68 HOVDEN OIL, FUEL...........................983.5 IA DEPT OF INSPECTIONS, INSPECTION......................................... 160 IMPACT COFFEE, COFFEE...................129 IOWA PARKS & REC, CEU.................... 145 JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL, SUPPLIES......................................... 685.34 KANOPY, FILM.......................................210 KEYSTONE LAB, FLUORIDE ANALYSIS...................... 332.5 KWIK TRIP, FUEL........................... 8,525.88 LULU & BB’S, SUPPLIES .................. 11.36 LYDON ELECTRI, COMPRESSOR.. 188.15 MALCOM, GARBAGE...........................325 MCCLURE ENGINEERING., SERVICES...................................... 1,569.00 MCDONALD SUPPLY, MOTOR......... 388.9 MI ENERGY , UTILITIES...............2,795.98 MID-STATES ORG, MEMBERSHIP......150 MISSISSIPPI WELDERS, GAS .......... 67.35 NAPA, SUPPLIES................................. 32.05 NELSON, KEVIN, REIMBURSEMENT................................75 OLSGARD’S , PARTS........................ 717.96 OLSON EXPLOSIVES, FUEL...........837.58 ONEOTA CO-OP, SUPPLIES............... 17.02 OPG-3, RENEWAL.................................. 453 OUTDOOR RECR, PARTS.................206.88 OVERDRIVE, BOOKS....................... 492.84 PITNEY BOWES, POSTAGE................. 46.5 PR DIAMOND, TOOL.....................1,431.00 RANDY’S AUTO, SUPPLIES............ 974.02 RICOH, COPIER................................. 240.01 SAMUELSON, RILEY GRAPHIC DESIGN............................... 590 SATTRE SERVICES, SNOW REMOVAL.................................210 SKYLINE LANDSCAPING.............. SNOW REMOVAL............................................... 440 STOREY KENWORTHY, SUPPLIES......................................... 126.82 STREICHER’S, SUPPLIES.....................274 TOLLEFSON, JIM, SERVICES............... 140 TRUCK COUNTRY, PARTS.............. 298.28 UNIVERSAL TRUCK, PARTS.............828.5 UPS, POSTAGE...................................... 53.3 USA BLUE BOOK, SUPPLIES.......... 532.63 UW-MADISON, CONFERENCE............ 260 VOLTMER , SUPPLIES...................... 210.97 WERTJES UNIFORMS, PATCHES.... 232.98 WINN CO LANDFILL, DISPOSAL.......... 10 Revenue to date February 16, 2024 General Fund.............................. 5,491,632.20 Local Option Sales Tax.................820,743.85 Road Use Fund.............................. 644,917.50 Employee Benefits........................ 968,511.57 Hotel/Motel................................... 228,552.39 SSMID............................................ 13,826.78 Park Special Gifts............................. 8,094.15 Library Special Gifts....................... 36,892.15 Street Equip Fund........................... 13,779.61 Debt Service Fund......................... 677,414.04 Special Projects............................. 106,007.95 Water Utility Fund..................... 1,184,896.36 Sewer Utility Fund........................885,873.31 Enterprise Project Interest............... 10,786.77 Metronet.......................................... 67,554.00 Forest Utility...................................77,537.80 Storm Sewer Utility...................... 120,816.49 ................................................. 11,357,836.92 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion February 29, 2024

PAGE 6

THURSDAY

FEBRUARY 29, 2024 Sports Editor: Becky Walz

•

DECORAH, SOUTH WINNESHIEK, TURKEY VALLEY

•

sports@decorahnewspapers.com

•

563-382-4221

NEIC honors Viking boys quartet

The Decorah boys basketball team shows off the state-qualifying banner following the 69-40 substate final win over Charles City. (Driftless Multimedia photos by Becky Walz and Ashley Walz)

Vikes headed to state; face Williamsburg first

Ben Bockman takes the ball strong to the basket.

Wide open layup for Zach Driscoll

Cael LaFrentz (32) and Matthew Bockman (4) for the block.

well-coached Charles City team.

Our guys dug deep late in the third quarter and really picked up our defensive intensity which propelled us to easier offensive looks,” said Coach Jonathan Carlson. “Substate final basketball games look a lot like this, with state tournament riding on the line, the stakes are high and there is a lot of energy in the gym.

We expected to be where we are now and look forward to the opportunity to compete at the state tournament.”

A trip to state This year marks the fourth trip for the Vikes to the state tournament in school history, the second in three years. The win also ties the school record for single season victories as Decorah enters the tournament with a 22-2 record.

Decorah will tip-off the tournament against eighth-seed Williamsburg (16-8) Tuesday, March 5, at 2 p.m., at Wells Fargo Arena in the quarterfinals. A win will move the Vikes into the semifinals against the winner of the Assumption (16-8) and Ballard (16-8) contest Thursday, March 7, at 2 p.m. The title game is scheduled for Friday, March 8, at 5 p.m.

Rundown of the game Neither of the Northeast Iowa Conference teams were hitting their mark to open Monday’s substate final, as the two teams combined for 14 first-quarter points.

A pair of jump shots by Matthew Bockman, combined with a three-pointer by Zach Driscoll, managed to give the Vikes a slim 9-5 advantage with eight minutes in the books.

In the second, the Comets rattled off 10 unanswered points, swinging the momentum in their favor, 15-9. Decorah’s Ben Bockman single-handedly brought the teams even, 15-15, with back-toback threes with 4:11 remaining in the half. From there, the Vikes and Comets would trade the lead five times with Charles City, closing out the second period with a

Trey McCain in a mad scramble for a loose ball.

24-23 halftime lead.

Twelve seconds into the third, B. Bockman put Decorah out front 26-24 with a long ball. A bunny shot by Cael LaFrentz and a three by M. Bockman pushed the Vikings to a 31-26 lead; however, the Comets fought back and tied the game again 34-34 with 2:27 on the clock. From there the Decorah defense shut down Charles City, putting up 10 unanswered points to carry a 44-34 lead into the fourth period.

Charles City’s scoring drought carried over into the first minute and a half of the final period, allowing the Vikes to pull away 5134. The Comets would only score six points in the fourth as the Decorah fans began to celebrate with the team.

Scoring – Ben Bockman 23; Cael LaFrentz 10; Zach Driscoll 10; Matthew Bockman 9; Kaiden Quandahl 8; Trey McCain 5; Andrew Rhodes 2; Noah Milburn 2 Rebounds – Quandahl 10; LaFrentz 8; M. Bockman 5; McCain 3; Milburn 2; B. Bockman 1; Assists – M. Bockman 5; B. Bockman 4; Driscoll 4; McCain 3; Quandahl 1; Gavin Groux 1; Steals – Rhodes 3; B. Bockman 2; LaFrentz 2; Driscoll 2; McCain 1; M. Bockman 1; Quandahl 1; Milburn 1; Blocks – LaFrentz 4; B. Bockman 1; Quandahl 1

Three Viking gals recognized

Trey McCain Senior First Team

Cael LaFrentz Sophomore First Team

Recognized on the second team by the NEIC was junior Zach Driscoll, who was second in assists in the league with 112 and led the Vikings in steals with 43. Driscoll converted on 49.5 percent of his field goals while averaging 10.1 points a night. In addition, the junior grabbed 90 boards (69 defensive, 21 offensive) and had 11 blocks.

Zach Driscoll Junior Second Team

All-NEIC Teams First team – Ben Bockman, Sr., Decorah; Cole Marsh, Sr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Noah Frazell, Sr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Luke Frazell, Jr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Cael LaFrentz, So., Decorah; Trey McCain, Sr., Decorah; Keenan Wiley, Sr., Charles City Second team – Benny Ramker, Sr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Jack Hanson, Sr., Charles City; Zach Driscoll, Jr., Decorah; Cael Laures, Sr., New Hampton; Ty Cotant, Sr., Crestwood; Jeb Wandro, Sr., Charles City, Mason Wasson, Sr., Waukon

Boys BB Final NEIC Standings NEIC Overall Decorah 9-1 22-2 Waverly-SR 9-1 20-3 Charles City 16-4 15-9 Waukon 4-6 7-15 Crestwood 1-9 2-19 New Hampton 1-9 2-19

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Senior Yazmeen Whitsitt is recognized for the third time, while freshman Claire Storhoff and her senior sister Brynn Storhoff each earn first-time honors.

Whitsitt was recognized on the first team, breaking several team records this season, including the most points scored in a game with 42 and the most threes scored in a game, with nine. During her senior campaign, Whitsitt averaged 20 points a game, tallying 551 for the season — both a conference best. She connected on 33.9 percent of her three-point shots, sinking 92 for the season, topping the NEIC. In addition she had a team-high and was second in the league in steals with 64. Whitsitt was second for the Vikes in assists with 46.

Also receiving a first team nod was C. Storhoff as she averaged 11.2 points a contest with 269 for the season. The freshman came away with 54 steals, second for the Vikes and fifth best in the NEIC. She had the best free throw percentage of the conference at 81.5 percent, connecting on 44-of-54 attempts. C. Storhoff also provided 88 rebounds (69 defensive, 19 offensive) and 32 assists.

Leading the Vikings in assists for her second team honor was

rebounder as well with 120 boards (87 defensive, 33 offensive) to go with 22 steals and a 4.7 points per game average.

Girls BB Final NEIC Standings NEIC Overall Waverly-SR 10-0 23-0 Decorah 8-2 15-8 Waukon 5-5 13-9 Crestwood 4-6 9-14 New Hampton 3-7 6-16 Charles City 0-10 2-20 All-NEIC Teams First team – Brenna Bodensteiner, Sr., WaverlyShell Rock; Charley Curtis, So., Crestwood; Katelyn Eggena, Sr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Lizzy Frazell, Fr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Brecken Stewart, Sr., Waukon; Claire Storhoff, Fr., Decorah; Yazmenn Whitsitt, Sr., Decorah Second team – Sarah Anderson, Sr., Crestwood; Ava Leichtman, Fr., New Hampton; Keira McCormick, Jr., Waukon; Taylor Ries, Jr., New Hampton; Brynn Storhoff, Sr., Decorah; Emma Thompson, Sr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Lydia Williams, Jr., Crestwood

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The top-ranked Vikings aren’t done yet as the Decorah boys basketball team not only secured a trip to the Class 3A basketball tournament, but also the top seed after defeating Charles City 6940 in the Substate 3 final in Cresco Monday night.

“We knew the third time was going to be a challenge versus a

Four members of the Decorah boys basketball team were recognized as being named a l l - c o n f e rence.

For the Ben Bockman third time, Senior Ben BockFirst Team man has been named All-NEIC by the league, having been a second team selection as a sophomore and first team last season. The senior returns to the first team as he led the NEIC in points with 474, averaging 19.8 a game.

He hit 53.0 percent from the field and 49.1 percent from beyond the arc. He was tied for second on the team with 25 steals, and handed out 94 assists with 114 total rebounds (90 defensive, 24 offensive) through the 24 games played so far by the Vikings.

Trey McCain makes the first team list. Previously, the senior had been a second team honoree as a sophomore and was sidelined his junior season with an injury.

Earlier this season, McCain broke the single-game assist record with 15 and led the NEIC with 171. He averaged 11.8 points a game and was 51.2 percent from the three-point line, with an 85.7 percent mark from the charity stripe. McCain also provided 62 total rebounds and 25 steals.

Sophomore Cael LaFrentz was second on the squad in points per game with 15.8 a night. He converted on 68.1 percent of his field goals and made 42-of-58 free throws. Leading the NEIC under the basket, LaFrentz pulled down a total of 257 rebounds (176 defensive, 81 offensive). He also topped the blocked shot category in the league, with 65.

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