March 14, 2024 by Decorah Leader

Thursday, March 14, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 11

Decorah, Iowa 52101 www.decorahnewspapers.com

One Section email: news@decorahnewspapers.com

2024 Nordic Fest theme announced

“Uff Da!” is the theme of the 57th annual Nordic Fest, which will be held July 25-27. “We are excited to announce 2024’s theme,” said 2024 Nordic Fest Board President Ariana Cervantes. “While it’s surprising that this theme hasn’t been already used in Nordic Fest’s 57 year history, residents of Decorah, myself included, use this phrase daily and it is a staple in our everyday vernacular.” “Uff Da” is a Scandinavian exclamation or interjection used to express dismay. While it is of Norwegian origin, the phrase was brought by Scandinavian Americans to the United States, and its meaning has broadened

to express surprise, astonishment, exhaustion or relief — all sediments attendees may feel when experiencing the variety of activities, food and entertainment at Nordic Fest. The Nordic Fest Board is encouraging businesses and organizations to incorporate the theme into offerings and parade ﬂoat entries this July. Nordic Fest is Decorah’s annual threeday summer festival that celebrates community and the area’s Scandinavian heritage. Organized by a board of volunteers, Nordic Fest offers food, activities and entertainment for the whole family. For more information, visit nordicfest.com.

By Denise Lana During its monthly meeting held Monday, March 11, at 5:30 p.m., the Decorah Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously passed proposed changes to city ordinance 17 regarding zoning – R-5 Planned Unit Development District. This ordinance is created to allow flexibility of land use and building locations, with the proposed changes focused on making more properties eligible for building to help combat the city’s housing shortage. As part of the approved changes, section 17.84.020 amends the tract size of land from “not less than five acres” to “not less than two acres.” In section 17.84.030, Item “B” is deleted in its entirety and replaced with an entirely new portion. The Item B replacement states that buildings, or portions of buildings, may be used for limited commercial purposes as long as the building is no closer than 150 feet from an adjacent residential zoning district. Also, the combined commercial units may not exceed 10 percent of the total units in the development and must be identified on the development plan. Lastly, all potential uses of commercial units must be submitted with the development plan and be approved in thepermit. Section 17.84.050 is amended to delete the last portion stating that any change in the development plan should be submitted in the same process as the original development plan. A new section, 17.84.070, was added to explain that changes made after construction regarding commercial usage would require going through an abbreviated approval process including P&Z and City Council, and the changes would fall under the modification section that allowed for any change in less than 10 percent in density. Digital & Electronic Sign Ordinance During its regular meeting Feb. 19,

the Decorah City Council voted down recommended changes made by P&Z to Chapter 17.16 of the ordinance regarding regulation of electronic signs in Decorah. Proposed changes would have allowed digital signs to be permissible across all commercial zoning districts except C3, and electronic signs would have been allowed across all districts but limited to hours of operation in the C3 district. With a vote of 3-4, the proposal was nearly split among the council members, with one member questioning why the city was not enforcing the code as written and instead accommodating changes to the code to include many signs in violation. Another member voiced concerns about the city’s historical status and how digital and electronic signs might detract from the city’s downhome atmosphere. A third council member questioned the validity of the city’s Board of Adjustment (BoA) Committee when approving digital and electronic signs and billboards, asking how the council could ensure the BoA operates properly in those circumstances. Most of the council members wanted more detailed rules. The ordinance was resubmitted for review at P&Z’s March 11 meeting along with possible changes that will be resubmitted to council in the next few months. A P&Z member asked City Manager Travis Goedken how the signs already in town would be regulated. Goedken explained that those signs would be considered “non-conforming” and legal, as long as the signs conformed to the new restrictions or had been previously approved by a variance issued by P&Z. Other signs would be illegal and non-conforming if no variance was previously issued, and the sign didn’t meet the new restrictions. Goedken stressed that he and

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Beef Royalty crowned

New royalty crowned at Saturday’s Winneshiek County Cattlemen Banquet were (front, l-r) Little Miss Cowgirl Emma Drahn, Little Miss Cowgirl Eloise Lechtenberg, Little Mr. Cowhand McCoy McConnell; (back) Beef Princess Keira Myers and Beef Queen Lauren Holthaus. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

School Board adopts proposed budget ﬁgures District awaits delayed state funding data for schools By Roz Weis

P&Z board hears heated digital signage discussion

Price One Dollar

In an effort to meet the March 15 deadline for submitting budget proposals to the State of Iowa, the Decorah Community School District (DCSD) Board of Directors approved a measure Monday night estimating Supplemental State Aid (SSA) and projecting a tax levy of $12.55 per thousand, with the understanding that the tax rate can be lowered before a budget is finalized. In recent years, tax rates have been $13.82682 for fiscal year (FY) 2019; $12.15797 for FY2020; $12.33702 for FY2021; $12.40427 for FY2022; and $12.35907 for FY2023. The Decorah district joins other Iowa schools in attempts to prepare a first draft of their budget, with no final figures supplied by the state for setting funding for schools. This lack of state funding calculations has the local board in unchartered territory. In estimating the budget for 2024-

25, DCSD Superintendent Tim Cronin, District Business Manager Cathy Dietzenbach and board members applied a Supplemental State Aid roadmap, or “new money calculator”, provided by the Iowa Association of School Boards. A measure of the state’s commitment to public schools is “Supplemental State Aid,” or SSA, formerly known as “allowable growth.” Iowa school district budgets are set by a state formula based on an enrollment (the “cost per pupil”) funded by a mix of state aid and local property tax. Each year that cost per pupil is revised by SSA. Cronin said, “SSA is hopefully three percent this year, and in the last 10 years the range has been between one and four percent.” In a written comment following Monday night’s monthly board meeting, Cronin explained the process: “We are reaching out to inform you about a crucial aspect of the Decorah

Community School District’s financial planning, particularly in light of the new Iowa Law called House File 718 and the upcoming budget publication deadline on March 15. As mandated by Iowa law, school districts are required to submit their budgets by March 15 to the county auditor. However, the challenge we currently face is the absence of a set Supplemental State Aid (SSA) for the upcoming year. SSA, the per-pupil state aid for K-12 public schools, significantly influences the overall tax rate, a key component of our budgetary considerations. Although Iowa law requires the legislature to establish the level of SSA within 30 days of the governor releasing her proposed budget, that deadline has passed, without the level of SSA for

School board continued on page 8

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P&Z board continued on page 3

Making a splash at Saturday’s “Silly Saturday for Families Afternoon at the Oscars” March 9 at The Landing in Decorah were, from left: Georgia Goulson, Lily Underbakke and Olivia Underbakke, all of Decorah. Those attending enjoyed the red carpet walk, free popcorn, movies and the balloon art. (Driftless Multimedia Photos by Roz Weis)

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CONCERT BAND

CONCERT CHOIR

HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA

VIKING CHORUS

MARCH IS MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS MONTH®

arch is Music in Our Schools Month celebrating TH the amazing music programming we 9 GRADE CHOIR have available at Decorah Community School District. The music programming at Decorah Community School District is extensive and broad. It provides a diverse range of opportunities for students to engage with music. The focus of the program is on nurturing fundamental skills in music literacy, instrumental and vocal 7TH GRADE CHOIR technique, as well as artistic expression. By developing these skills, students are empowered to actively create, perform, and make meaningful connections through music, enhancing their daily lives and deepening their appreciation for music. The program's holistic approach aims to not only develop musicianship but also cultivate character and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

MARCHING BAND

8TH GRADE CHOIR

Over 1,200 kids involved in TK-12 musical programming, including: TK-4th grade music 7TH GRADE 5th-8th grade chorus ORCHESTRA 5th-8th grade orchestra 5th-8th grade band TH Middle school jazz 7 GRADE band BAND High school choirs: Ninth grade choir, Viking Chorus, Concert Choir, Frottola Singers, Madrigal Singers High school bands: Pride of the Vikings Marching Band, 7 O'Clock Jazz Band, Jazz 2, & Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble High school orchestras: 9/10 Chamber Orchestra, 11/12 Chamber Orchestra, Decorah High School Or6TH GRADE ORCHESTRA chestra

8TH GRADE ORCHESTRA DECORAH COMMUNITY SCHOOL SPRING

MUSIC EVENTS

March 1 - Jazz Coﬀeehouse, DHS

8TH GRADE BAND

March 18 - Middle School Orchestra: ComMission Possible Project Premiere Concert, Carrie Lee Auditorium, 7:00

5 GRADE ORCHESTRA TH

5TH GRADE BAND

April 29 - 2nd Grade Spring Concert, DHS, 6:00 April 29 - 4th Grade Spring Concert, DHS, 7:00

April 30 - 3rd Grade Spring Concert, DHS, 7:00

MUSIC TEACHERS

May 2 - 7th and 8th Grade Band Concert, DHS, 7:00

5TH GRADE CHOIR

Emily Hahn 5th-8th grade band, including a middle school jazz band

May 6 - 5th and 6th Grade Band Concert, DHS, 7:00

Jason Rausch 9th grade choir, Viking Chorus, Concert Choir, Frottola Singers and Madrigal Singers Matt Cody and Dustin Bliven, band directors, leading Pride of the Vikings Marching Band, 7 O’Clock Jazz Band, Jazz 2, Concert Band and Percussion Ensemble

May 7 - High School Vocal and Orchestra Concert, DHS, 7:00

ELEMENTARY STUDENTS SING AT FOOTBALL GAME ELEMENTARY MUSIC

May 3 - High School IHSMA State Large Group Festival at DHS, Band and Choir May 4 - State Large Group Music Festival, Orchestra

Jennifer Larson 5th-8th grade orchestra

Nicole Cody High school orchestra 9th-12th grade

April 11/12 - 6th Grade Musical “Bye Bye Birdie,” Carrie Lee Auditorium, 7:00

April 30 - 1st Grade Spring Concert, DHS, 6:00

DECORAH COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Dean Beckman 5th-8th grade chorus

March 23 - High School IHSMA State Solo and Ensemble Festival at Clear Lake

April 25 - High School Band Concert, DHS, 7:30, Premier of commissioned Percussion Choir piece written by Iowa - based composer Cory McBride in memory of Erick Fadness and Jerry (JD) Dean

6TH GRADE CHOIR

Sarah Zbornik 3rd/4th grade

March 2 - Kennedy Honors Orchestra March 14/15 - High School Vocal Solo/Ensemble Clinic, DHS, 5:00

6TH GRADE BAND

Sarah Schacherer TK- 2nd grade

March 2 - Tri-State Middle School Honor Band Festival

May 13 - 5th and 6th Grade Orchestra Concert, Carrie Lee Auditorium, 7:00 May 14 - 7th and 8th Grade Orchestra, “Night of the Notables,” DMS 1st ﬂoor, 7:00 May 16 - High School Concert Band Patriotic Concert 12pm at Washington St. and Water St. May 16 – 7th and 8th Grade Pops Concert, DHS, 7:00

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, March 14, 2024 3

Spectrum building to be renamed under county’s ownership; W14 project slated to begin this fall By Zach Jensen

DMS students present ‘A Night of Plays’

Decorah Middle School seventh and eighth grade students will present “A Night of Plays” on Thursday, March 14, at 7 p.m., in the Carrie Lee auditorium. The program will include several short plays and comedic monologues. The public is invited to attend at no charge. Pictured front row (l-r): Keegan Joyce, Sofia Hageman, Veda Shimek, Emma Neebel, Kimberly Mejia Junech and Lailyn McGrath. Back row: Laylah Schissel, Nils Peterson, Xavier Ahrndt, Autumn Wagner, Nathaniel Crose, Claire Ko and Lula McAbee. Not pictured: Anna Severtson. (submitted photo)

Porter House hosts March Learn about hummingbirds lectures on local women The Porter House Museum Lincoln. It will consider wheth- March 16 in Decorah will host two lectures this month on the history of women in Decorah — one about the lives of prominent women in the Broadway neighborhood and one about local women’s work for public good. Each lecture will be co-presented by local Decorah historian Elizabeth Lorentzen along with David Faldet, who chairs the Porter House Museum board. On Thursday, March 14, at 6:15 p.m., and at 7:45 p.m., Lorentzen and Faldet will present a one-hour talk, “The Women of Broadway,” about the daily lives of women in the neighborhood of the Porter House or in the acquaintance of its owners, focusing on daily routines, hired help and social life. “Visitors to the Porter House are understandably curious about how the house figured into the lives of the owners, their employees, or their friends,” Faldet said. “Who did the cooking and cleaning? How did they spend their days? It’s Decorah’s version of Downton Abbey.” The presentation will look at the women of the Ellsworth, Young and Porter families who lived in the house as well as other prominent women like Antonia Bear, Sarah Landers, Dr. Harriet Amy, and Phoebe

er the household run by these women had servants, kept a cow or horses, had a special reputation in the community, or if the woman had a notable trait. On Thursday, March 21, at 6:15 p.m., and at 7:45 p.m., Lorentzen and Faldet will present a one-hour talk entitled “Women’s Work for Public Good” about the social improvements achieved by the family of Grace (Young) Porter and other leading women of the community. Grace Porter, who came from a family of accomplished women, was a member of Monday Club and worked to get women the vote. The historic issues and institutions that benefited from women’s organizations in the county include suffrage, a women’s refuge, a public library, a hospital and a kindergarten. The two March lectures are part of a 2024 emphasis at the Porter House Museum on Grace Porter. In addition to the lectures, Porter’s clothing, and photographs of Grace Porter will be on special display throughout the summer tour season. The lectures are open to the public free of charge, and will be held at the Porter House Museum, 401 W. Broadway, in Decorah.

Upper Iowa Audubon will host Tina Hall for an informative talk on how to welcome hummingbirds to your yard Saturday, March 16, at 1:30 p.m., at Convergence Ciderworks in Decorah. Hall and her husband were the former managers of a hummingbird center in southeast Arizona. All are welcome to learn interesting aspects of hummingbird biology and behavior.

Winneshiek Co. Democrats to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

Winneshiek County Democrats will celebrate St Patrick’s Day at Convergence Cider Works on Sunday, March 17, from 2 to 4 p.m. The event will feature appetizers, desserts, singing, bagpipe music, beverages from the Convergence bar and remarks by elected officials. State legislators Sharon Steckman of Mason City and Sami Scheetz of Cedar Rapids will comment briefly on pertinent legislation at the Iowa Statehouse. Locally, Winneshiek County Supervisors Shirley Vermace and Mark Faldet will attend, and Vermace will discuss the upcoming elections for the county’s board of supervisors.

The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors Monday morning unanimously approved a name change of the Spectrum building to “Winneshiek County Community Services.” The county entered into a contractual purchase of the 18,000 sq. ft. building, located at 607 Washington Street, Decorah, on Friday, March 1. Per the agreement, the county paid $250,000 on March 1 and will pay $250,000 per year until the total purchase price of $1.25 million is paid in full. Other business • County Engineer Michael Kueny reported that some changes have been made to the county’s GIS website to help make it more useful for the community. The changes will go into effect the week of March 18. Additionally, the engineer reported his office has submitted final plans for the County Road W14 project from Spillville to Ridgeway, which will begin this fall. He also reported that his office has received applications for the open positions of roadside technician and engineering technician and will be advertising for one opening on the county’s bridge crew. • The supervisors unanimously approved the appointment of Rebecca Steines to the position of Deputy Treasurer with no change in salary. Supervisor Mark Faldet abstained from voting due to a familial relation to the new Deputy Treasurer. • County IT and GIS Director John Lubke presented information relating to the potential hiring of a new senior system administrator, which would be funded through Winneshiek County Emergency Management. Lubke said the county began advertising for the position in January and received three applications. Of those three candidates, the county has chosen one to whom the position would be offered, and that person would begin their new duties with the county at the end of March or early April. The supervisors unanimously approved offering the candidate the position.

• The supervisors voted 4-1 in favor of waiving the waiting period for Moellers Dairy to increase its herd to a total of 6,900 head. Supervisor Shirley Vermace voted against the waiver. • The supervisors unanimously approved raising township officials’ pay to $50 per meeting. • A public hearing to accept bids on the county’s proposed sale of land in Freeport will be held Monday, March 18, at 10 a.m., in the courthouse annex. The next meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held Monday, March 18, at 9:30 a.m., in the courthouse annex.

Ft. Atkinson Fire Department pancake breakfast fundraiser

The Fort Atkinson Fire Department will host a pancake and sausage breakfast Sunday, March 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Fort Atkinson Community Center. All proceeds will be used to replace the department’s old Rescue Unit with a new vehicle.

BENEFIT DANCE

The Winneshiek Saddle Club via Pony Express

Music by

The Buck Hollow Band SATURDAY, MARCH 16 7:00-10:00 P.M. Winneshiek County Fairgrounds Danan Lansing Building, Decorah Contact Edna for info (563) 382-2019

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P&Z board continued from front attorney John Anderson are currently working together to define the specifics regarding digital versus electronic signs and how to incorporate current signs properly. P&Z Vice Chair Marla Klocke passionately expressed her feelings regarding council’s questioning of the changes and BoA’s abilities and processes with approving variances. Upon reading the council’s decisioning regarding the defeated ordinance, Klocke calmly said, “It bordered devious, undermining the government at Board of Adjustment. My question to council, ‘How many have ever talked to BoA? Been

health

to a meeting?’” Another member declared, “The businesses that are going to use digital or electronic signs are not many.” Klocke agreed, stating, “Schools and churches have them. That’s a good thing! I want someone to convince me or help me understand why these are not a good thing. I’m struggling with making any more changes.” BoA Chair Sue Sander was in the audience at the meeting and addressed the P&Z Board regarding several businesses who had digital and electronic signs approved by BoA. “First Lutheran was the first

one who came to us, and we talked quite lengthily with the historic commission to decide what they could do.” Sander continued, “Decorah Lutheran had to go by strict guidelines, and we worked well with them; we wanted to make sure the signs were modernized.” Sanders lamented, “Everybody wants the fastest internet, but then they don’t want that for Decorah. Changing for the good or for the bad? Do we want to make businesses want to come here, but they can’t put up their signs? Decorah is never gonna be another Vegas. Tearing billboards down every month and wasting all that paper when you

could change a digital sign and avoid all that waste? Where are we going to stop? Culver’s, light [from its digital sign] is 10 times brighter than the billboard! Chris Miculinich showed up — the first and only time I’ve had someone [from council] come to a meeting. If they don’t like what we are doing, but they don’t show up? Talk to us! If you are that concerned, show up at the meeting!” “Where do we go from here?” was the question asked by numerous board members. Goedken informed the board he would continue researching and would get clarification from council.

beauty D I R EC TO R Y

Decorah

Written by Pastor Henrik G. Engebretson appropriately for Lent or Holy Week: meditations on the seven last words of Jesus; great hymns of the church with links; powerful illustrations of Christ, the cruciﬁxion and connections to modern life.

ON SALE NOW at Dragonﬂy Books in Decorah and Luther College Book Store

Decorah Public Opinion

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

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Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, March 14, 2024 5

4 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, March 14, 2024

23/24

STATE QUALI F I E R S on grat ulat ion s C CHLOESHEFFIELD 100 lbs • Decorah Junior • 37-6 season record • Regional runner-up • 2-time state qualiﬁer • State runner-up

NAOMISIMON 170 lbs

• Decorah Senior • 48-0 season record • Regional champion • 4-time state qualiﬁer • 4-Time State Champion

KADYNMEYER 125 lbs

DECORAH GIRLS’ WRESTLING

ANASIMON 145 lbs

• Decorah Sophomore • 43-3 season record • Regional runner-up • 2-time state qualiﬁer • Third at state

LAURENLUZUM 155 lbs

KAMRYNSTEINES 190 lbs

• Decorah Sophomore • 39-8 season record • Regional runner-up • 2-time state qualiﬁer • Eighth at state

ELLIEADAMS 115 lbs

• Decorah Freshman • 35-17 season record • Regional runner-up

The Decorah girls’ wrestling team was crowned the state champions in early February winning the title by 45 points over second place. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

• Decorah Junior • 39-5 season record • Regional champion • 2-time state qualiﬁer • Sixth at state

DECORAH BOYS’ BASKETBALL TEAM

• Co-Champions of NEIC with 9-1 record • Qualiﬁed for state for second time in three seasons • Most wins in a season with 23-3 season record • First Decorah boys’ basketball team to reach semiﬁnals

MADDYJANSEN 135 lbs

DECORAH BOWLING TEAMS

• South Winn Sophomore • 24-11 season record • District runner-up • 2-time state qualiﬁer

Boys’ team • Dual season conference champs • District champion • 3rd place in Class 2A

MCKENZIETOLLEFSON 135 lbs

MADYSENLIPPE 235 lbs

COLLINHOLM 144 lbs

• Decorah Sophomore • 20-9 season record • Regional runner-up

KOLLINHENRY 150 lbs

• Decorah Senior • 23-18 season record • District runner-up

• South Winn Senior • 46-3 season record • 3rd place in Class 1A • 2-time state qualiﬁer • District runner-up

JORDAN SIMS • Decorah BROCK CHRISTENSEN • Decorah Senior • District Runner-up • 22nd at State

TOMMYSEXTON 132 lbs

• Decorah Sophomore • 39-9 season record • District champion • 4th place in Class 2A

MASONAVILA 132 lbs

• Decorah Sophomore • 25-20 season record • District runner-up • 2-time state qualiﬁer

BRODYHANSON 157 lbs • Decorah Senior • 34-12 season record • District runner-up

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Sophomore • District Champion • 10th at State

Sophomore • 6th at Districts • 24th at State

• 4th at Districts • 12th at State

• 8th at Districts • 2-time state qualiﬁer • 20th at State

Representing the Decorah boys’ swim team at state were (l-r) Dom Bigalk, Dylan Hogan, Ian Giddings, Mason Cote, Isaac Knaack, Simon Kutz, Reid Kuehner, Max Grimstad. (Submitted photo)

200-yard medley relay (Isaac Knaack, Mason Cote, Simon Kutz, Dylan Hogan) • Finished 17th at state in 1:40.88

WILLLARSON 138 lbs

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JASERA TWETEN • Decorah

ANIKA GRINNA • Decorah Senior

DECORAH BOYS SWIMMING

• Decorah Freshman • 37-9 season record • District runner-up • 6th place in Class 2A

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CADE AVERHOFF • Decorah Senior

• South Winn Senior • 43-9 season record • District runner-up

GAVINKNUTSON 106 lbs

Decorah

Junior • 4th at Districts • 15th at State

KARLIE EINCK • Decorah

AIDENFEICKERT 113 lbs

• Decorah Sophomore • 34-4 season record • District champion • 2-time state qualiﬁer • 5th place in Class 2A

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Girls’ team • Dual season conference champs • District champion • 5th place in Class 2A

The Decorah girls’ and boys’ bowling teams showcase their state trophies. Pictured are (front, l-r) Coach Michael Bruening, Kennedy Riehle, Addison Wicklund, Jasera Tweten, Karlie Einck, Anika Grinna, Marri Feuerhelm, Rylee Averhoff, Asmere Jensen; (back) Chase Vick, Jordan Sims, TJ Round, Brock Christensen, Cade Averhoff, Jace Buddenberg, Tyler Novak, Bryce Elsbernd and Coach Keith Bruening. (Photo courtesy of Amy Averhoff)

• Decorah Junior • 38-11 season record • 2-time state qualiﬁer • Third at regional

AMELIAWADSWORTH 140 lbs

• Decorah Junior • 39-13 season record • Third at regional

• South Winn Senior • 38-10 season record • Regional champion • 8th place at state • 2-time state qualiﬁer

The Decorah boys’ basketball team which qualiﬁed for the 2024 Class 3A state tournament included (l-r) Louis Bucksa, Gavin Groux, Kaiden Quandahl, Noah Milburn, Trey McCain, Zach Driscoll, Andrew Rhodes, Cael LaFrentz, Matthew Bockman, Ben Bockman, Carter Dlhy and Jackson Pipho. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

WILLIAMFULLHART 144 lbs • Decorah Freshman • 32-12 season record • District runner-up

KYLEKUBOUSHEK 165 lbs

• South Winn Sophomore • 44-10 season record • District runner-up • 2-time state qualiﬁer

ISAACKNAACK

• Decorah Senior • 23rd place in 100-yard backstroke in 54.82 seconds

PARKERTIMP 215 lbs

LANDENSCHNUELLE 150 lbs

• South Winn Sophomore • 35-17 season record • District runner-up

• South Winn Senior • 39-9 season record • District runner-up • 2-time state qualiﬁer

200-yard free relay (Isaac Knaack, Mason Cote, Simon Kutz, Dylan Hogan) • New school record • Finished 16th at state in 1:29.67

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400-yard free relay (Isaac Knaack, Dominic Bigalk, Mason Cote, Simon Kutz) • Finished 17th at state in 3:20.60

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For All Your H UConcrete B K ANeeds Cons t r uc t ion ICF and Decorative Co For All Your Concrete Needs including ICF and Decorative Concrete

Congratulations to all area athletes! 2456 Co. Road A-14, Decorah, IA • 563-735-5524

6 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, March 14, 2024

Public Notices Lang’s Dairy Equipment in Decorah, IA is seeking a

Part Time Oﬃce Assistant

Experience with QuickBooks online, phone skills & general bookkeeping. 25-30 hours per week, could lead to full time. Salary based on experience.

Vesterheim seeks a

Visitor Services Assistant

that will assist the Visitor Services Manager in developing and facilitating a range of experiences, including tours, special events, school and group visits, volunteer activities, and facility rentals. The ideal candidate will have organizational skills with strong attention to detail, be prepared to ensure a high level of visitor satisfaction and enjoy working with the public. Reporting to the Visitor Services Manager, this is a non-exempt, 20 hour/week position that will work primarily onsite requiring ﬂexible hours including some weekends and evenings. Rate per hour: $15.25 - $16.25. For the complete job description https://vesterheim.org/job/visitor-services-assistant/. To apply email a cover letter, resume, and the names of three references to tcarolan@vesterheim.org. Vesterheim is an EOE/AA.

11-4-PJ-12

drivers WANTed FT/PT with many route options. Home each night. Need to be dependable. No CDL required. Little to no experience required. Earn up to $19 per hour. NewWinneshiek equipment. County Secondary Roads

Services

ROOFING IOWA LLC SPECIALIZING IN:

OTHER SERVICES:

Contact Joan for more info at 563-547-2162

New Construction, Windows, Decks, Siding, Post Frame Buildings

Assistant to the Engineer

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at the office of the Winneshiek County Engineer, 201 W Main St, Decorah, IA 52101. Up toSW two • qualified individuals will be 530 2nd Avenue Cresco, IA 52136 hired. Applications and job description are available at the Engineers Office and www.winneshiekcounty.org/jobs.html. Minimum salary is $67,055 with actual Vesterheim is seeking salary based on qualifications and a experience. Applications are due March 11, 2024 at 4pm. EOE

Communications & Marketing Assistant

that will support Vesterheim’s Communication & Marketing team with day-to-day department operations. This position collaborates on various digital, visual, and print marketing materials, and facilitates organization and communication tasks. This non-exempt, 20 hours/week position reports to the Director of Communications & Marketing. The ideal candidate will have excellent computer, writing, and prooﬁng skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work in a team environment. Rate per hour: $15.25 - $16.25. For the complete job description https://vesterheim.org/job/communications-marketing-assistant-2/. To apply email a cover letter, resume, and the names of three references to tcarolan@vesterheim.org. Vesterheim is an EOE/AA.

11-4-JP-12

city of Decorah

Street Superintendent

The City of Decorah is accepting applications for the position of Street Superintendent. Minimum qualifications include having high school diploma or equivalent with post-secondary education preferred. Must have a Class A CDL with airbrake and tanker endorsements, or ability to obtain within six months of hire. Position is subject to emergency events and requires 30 minute response time. Must have five years progressive experience in street department operations with supervisory experience preferred. Position is subject to post-offer physical examination including drug testing, background check and motor vehicle records check. Competitive benefit package offered.

Applications and complete job description may be obtained at the City Clerk’s Office, Decorah Municipal Center, 400 Claiborne Drive or online at www.decorahia.org.

For more information call (563) 382-3651.

Return city application and resume to: City of Decorah, Attn: Travis Goedken, City Manager, PO Box 138, Decorah, IA, 52101 or citymanager@decorah.iowa.gov. 10-2-P-12

Applications will be received until position is filled, with first review of applications 4:00 PM, March 22, 2024. M/F Disabled and Veteran EEO/AA Employer.

Join the team at Heritage Farm!

AND CONSTRUCTION

Metal & Asphalt Roofing

will be accepting applications for the full-time position of

-code-

The Spillville City Council held the regular meeting at the Spillville City Hall at 6:00 PM. on Tuesday, March 6, 2024. Mayor Wermers called the meeting to order with the following councilmen present Backes, Kelsay, Taylor, Schmitt, and Straube. Consent Agenda: Motion by Schmitt, second by Straube to approve items as follows: A. Approval of minutes of previous meetings B. Approval of Claims C. Finance Reports Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays,

Full-time, $18/hour

The field operations technician will be involved in all stages of field and garden operations and seed-production activities. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to, tractor work, compost management, garden and field preparation, cover cropping, integrated pest management, and equipment maintenance.

1048 Sand Hill Rd. Waukon, IA 52172

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

563-794-2868 Help Wanted Winneshiek County Secondary Roads will be accepting applications for the temporary position of

Summer Roadside Technician Assistant

at the office of the Winneshiek County Engineer, 201 W. Main, Decorah, IA 52101. Applications are available at the Engineers Office and www. winneshiekcounty.org/jobs.html. Winneshiek County Secondary Roads will be accepting applications for the temporary position of

Summer Engineer Technician

at the office of the Winneshiek County Engineer, 201 W. Main, Decorah, IA 52101. Applications are available at the Engineers Office and www. winneshiekcounty.org/jobs.html. EOE 11-4-JP-12

$1,000 SIGNING BONUS

FULL TIME POSITIONS

Enjoy working outside and looking for a change? We provide on the job training! Class A or B CDL desirable. No CDL, no problem, we will help you get one. Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953 www.olsonexplosives.com info@olsonexp.com Equal Opportunity Employer 11-tf-PJ-12

Join the team at Heritage Farm!

SHIPPING ROOM COORDINATOR Full-time, $18/hour

This position is responsible for the efficient, timely, and accurate coordination of all incoming and outgoingshipments. The ideal SIGNING BONUS candidate should be a detail-oriented$1,000 individual with proficiency in shipping and business software. Seeking applicants VISIT SEEDSAVERS.ORG/JOBS FORfor Full Time Mechanic position. MORE DETAILS AND OPEN POSITIONS! Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953

To apply, please email a cover letter, résumé, and the contact www.olsonexplosives.com info@olsonexp.com information for three references to jobs@seedsavers.org . Equalyou Opportunity Employer Please include the name of the position are applying 11-tf-PJ-12 for in the subject line of your email. You may also contact Peggy Miller at 563.387.5653. Seed Savers Exchange is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

11-2-PJ-12

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

VISIT SEEDSAVERS.ORG/JOBS FOR MORE DETAILS AND OPEN POSITIONS!

11-2-JP-12

To apply, please email a cover letter, résumé, and the contact information for three references to jobs@seedsavers.org. Please include the name of the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email. You may also contact Peggy Miller at 563.387.5653. Seed Savers Exchange is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER Full-time, $21/hour

This highly collaborative position works closely with all Seed Savers Exchange departments and collaborates with individuals and organizations in the broader seed community to build lasting relationships. Education and engagement projects and initiatives include all SSE educational events, educational farm and garden signage, the Community Seed Network, and Speakers Bureau.

VISIT SEEDSAVERS.ORG/JOBS FOR MORE DETAILS AND OPEN POSITIONS!

DECORAH, IOWA The City of Decorah is accepting applications for the position of Public Works Director. Minimum qualifications include having high school diploma or equivalent with post-secondary education preferred. Class B CDL is preferred. Must have five years supervisory or management experience. Experience in water, sewer, and/ or street operations preferred. Position is subject to post-offer physical examination including drug testing, background check and motor vehicle records check. Competitive benefit package offered. Applications and complete job description may be obtained at the City Clerk’s Office, Decorah Municipal Center, 400 Claiborne Drive or online at www.decorahia.org. For more information call 563-382-3651. Return city application and resume to: City of Decorah, Attn: Travis Goedken, City Manager, PO Box 138, Decorah, IA, 52101 or citymanager@decorah.iowa.gov. Applications will be received until position is filled, with first review of applications 4:00 PM, March 29, 2024. M/F Disabled and Veteran EEO/AA Employer. EEO/AA Employer, M/F Disabled and Veteran.

11-2-P-12

Water Deposit, $0, $0 Sewer, $3924.81, $2843.06 City of Spillville Claims Paid & Summary of Receipts February 2024 Type, Date, Num, Name, Memo, Amount Check, 02/01/2024, ACH, MEDIACOM, Clocks Internet Access .......................-99.97 Liability Check, 02/03/2024, ACH, IPERS, IPERS............................................-1,545.51 Liability Check, 02/03/2024, ACH, United States Treasury, Federal Payroll Taxes ....................-2,081.26 Check, 02/06/2024, 22204, IROC WEB DESIGN SERVICES, Inv 8686 .......-189.00 Check, 02/06/2024, 22205, WINNESHIEK COUNTY DEVELOPMENT INC, Pledge for Travel Iowa Tourism Grant .........................-150.00 Check, 02/06/2024, 22206, NESS PUMPING, Campground Inv 7622 .-975.00 Check, 02/06/2024, ACH, US CELLULAR .. Alarm Autodialer/Cell Phone ...........-112.69 Check, 02/06/2024, 22207, GRAPHICS, INC., Inv 58909KS ............................-10.16 Check, 02/06/2024, 22208, HUBER’S STORE, Shop Supplies ......................-17.01 Check, 02/06/2024, ACH ,JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL, Park & Rec, Pickup ..-296.93 Check, 02/06/2024, ACH, FENCL OIL & LP CO., City Hall LP .......................-120.00 Check, 02/06/2024, 22209, USA BLUEBOOK, Water Supplies..........-193.30 Check, 02/06/2024, 22210, Marv Smith Electric, Plbg & Htg, North Bridge Lighting......................-423.32 Check, 02/06/2024, 22211, DRIFTLESS MULTIMEDIA, Publications ..........-101.55 Check, 02/06/2024, 22212, IOWA ONE CALL, Water & Sewer Locates Inv 258737 .............-19.80 Check, 02/06/2024, 22213, SILENT KNIGHT PEST CONTROL, Pest Control 2023.............................-900.00 Check, 02/06/2024, ACH, DRIFTLESS SECURITY, Library Alarm................-70.00 Check, 02/06/2024, 22219, Sumner Public Library, Library - Books ....................-25.00 Check, 02/06/2024, 22220, H. F. Maude E. Marchant Memorial Library, Library - Books ....................-17.00 Check, 02/06/2024, 22221, READER’S DIGEST LARGE PRINT, Library Serials....................................-32.10 Check, 02/06/2024, 22222, DRIFTLESS MULTIMEDIA, Publications ............-37.38 Check, 02/07/2024, ACH, MEDIACOM, Clocks Internet Access .......................-99.97 Check, 02/07/2024, 22214, BADGER METER, Water Maintenance .............-60.00 Check, 02/07/2024, 22215, CLERKBOOKS, INC., Annual Software Charge ........-200.00 Check, 02/07/2024, 22216, SHIMEK SANITATION, Sanitation Contract........................-3,022.60 Check, 02/07/2024, 22217, Master Burn City Building Maintenance ........................-56.37 Check, 02/07/2024, 22218, OLSGARDS AUTO SALES, Equipment Expense .........................-525.00 Check, 02/07/2024, ACH, FENCL OIL & LP CO., Clocks LP ...........................-265.00 Check, 02/07/2024, ACH, FENCL OIL & LP CO., Library LP ..........................-160.00 Check, 02/07/2024, ACH, ALLIANT, Electricity ......................................-2,619.85 Check, 02/07/2024, ACH, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones................................-200.49 Check, 02/12/2024, ACH, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones................................-113.81 Check, 02/14/2024, ACH, VISA, City CC/Maintenance &Supplies.............-620.09 Check, 02/20/2024, ACH, CITIZENS SAVINGS BANK, ACH Fees ............-18.70 Paycheck, 02/29/2024, 22224, February 2024 Payroll, Payroll .....................9,059.43 Efile, 02/29/2024, ACH, Iowa Department of Rev & Finance, Sales Tax .............484.01 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion March 14, 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE VIVIAN CATHERINE HEMESATH TRUST NOTICE OF TRUST To all persons regarding Vivian Catherine Hemesath, deceased, who died on or about November 13, 2023. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that Cathy Ann Hemesath Howell and David Joseph Hemesath are the Co-trustees of the Vivian Catherine Hemesath Trust dated July 10, 2018, and amended February 18, 2021. Any action to contest the validity of the Trust must be brought in the District Court of Winneshiek County, Decorah, Iowa, within the later to occur within four (4) months from the date of second publication of this notice, or within thirty (30) days from the date of mailing this notice to all heirs of the decedent settlor and the spouse of the decedent settlor whose identities are reasonably ascertainable. Any suit not filed within this period shall be forever barred. Notice is further given that any person or entity possessing a claim against the trust must mail proof of the claim to the trustee at the address listed below via certified mail, return receipt requested, by the later to occur of four (4) months from the second publication of this notice or thirty (30) days from the date of mailing this notice if required, or the claim shall be forever barred unless paid or otherwise satisfied. Dated this 4th day of March, 2024. VIVIAN CATHERINE HEMESATH TRUST dated July 10, 2018, and amended February 18, 2021 Cathy Ann Hemesath Howell, Co-Trustee 1616 South 189th Court Omaha, NE 68130 David Joseph Hemesath, Co-Trustee 3013 155th Street Fort Atkinson, IA 52144 ATTORNEY FOR TRUST: Dustin H. Noble ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN, FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101-0450 (563) 382-2959 dustin.noble@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: March 14, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion March 7 & 14, 2024 Board Minutes March 4, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am March 4, 2024 with all members present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order. Anna Stamat and Sherri Carolan, Guardians of NEIA, met with the Board to introduce themselves and give an overview of their programs. Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to review road department projects. Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Vick to adopt resolution 24-34, establishing the policy for dust control application. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Moved by Vick and seconded by Vermace to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to approve the second amendment to the Collective Bargaining Agreement with AFSCME Local 3483 (Deputies) for wages starting July 1, 2024. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to appoint Steve Kelsay as the alternate to the E911 Service Board. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to adopt resolution 24-35, setting the public hearing on the Proposed FY25 Property Tax Levy Rates for March 25th at 11:00am. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Public notice will be published and mailed as required. The Board reviewed Public Health expenditures by surrounding counties. Krista VandenBrink, Public Health Director, discussed programs and services. VandenBrink will work with state agencies to provide a more detailed review of programs and services in

Winneshiek and surrounding counties. The Board discussed ofﬁce space availability in the newly acquired Spectrum building. Kelsay and Vick will work with current tenants and VandenBrink to see if Public Health could be relocated to this building. Trisha Wilkins, Director NEIA Community Action, asked about the disposition of the Smith Building if Public Health moved out. The Board will discuss this with the County Attorney, but felt they could make a “good deal” with NEIA Community Action if they wanted to own the Smith Building. More discussion on these topics will follow in upcoming meetings. Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, March 11, 2024. Motion carried unanimously. ATTEST Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck,Chair Board of Supervisors Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion March 14, 2024

For Sale For Sale: Teddy Bear puppies - Shih Tzu/Yorkie mix. Vet checked. $550. 563-497-3280. 11-6-JP-pd-1

Garage Sale Garage Sale: Friday, March 15 and Saturday, March 16; 8-5 both days. Loads of vintage and antiques! Furniture and smalls. Don’t miss it! 207 Highland Dr., Decorah 11-2-JP-pd-2

Help Wanted Bookkeeper/Receptionist. Miller Law Office has an employment opening for a qualiﬁed bookkeeper who would also be asked to do some reception and other clerical duties. Bookkeeping duties would include recording financial transactions, reconciling accounts, preparing financial statements, maintaining accounts receivable and processing payroll. This can be a full-time position or part-time, depending on the applicant. To apply, send your resume to Miller Law Ofﬁce, PO Box 28 Decorah, IA 52101 by April 1, 2024. 11-4-JP-x-12

Auction Calendar LARGE TOY, COLLECTIBLE, HOUSEHOLD, TOOLS & MISC LIVE AUCTION - Saturday, March 9, 8:30 a.m. Sale Held at Sweeney Auction Center, Waukon IA. Donald Steffans Estate Decorah IA & Caryn Weymiller Estate Waukon IA Sweeney Auction Service, Waukon IA, 563-568-2464, www.sweeneyauctionservice.com OVER 400 LOTS ONLINE ONLY COLLECTIBLES, HOUSEHOLD, TOOLS & MISC AUCTION - Monday, March 11, 4:30 p.m. Michael Wicklund Trust, 2765 Blackhawk Rd New Albin, IA, Sweeney Auction Service, Waukon IA, 563-568-2464, www. sweeneyauctionservice.com GUNS & SPORTING GOODS AUCTION - Saturday, March 16. Sale held at Sweeney Auction Service, Waukon. 563-568-2464, www.sweeneyauctionservice.com. 38.48 ACRES WINNESHIEK COUNTY REAL ESTATE AUCTION - Friday, March 29, 10:30 a.m. Otters Family, 115th St., Fort Atkinson, IA. Sale held at Fort Atkinson Community Center. Sweeney Auction Service, Waukon IA, 563568-2464, www.sweeneyauctionservice.com LARGE COIN AUCTION - Sunday, April 7, 10:00 a.m. Held at the Community Center in Protivin, IA Shindelar Auction Service, LLC. Protivin, Ia 563-569-8235. www. auctionsgo.com

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Help Wanted-Government POLICE OFFICER: Indianola Police Department is taking applications for the positions of Police/ Patrol Ofﬁcer. Obtain applications by visiting https://indianolaiowa. applicantpro.com/jobs , choose Police Ofﬁcer. Deadline 5/10/2024 EOE

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none. Motion Carried. EMC Insurance: Jane Regan was here to review and present the city with the updated insurance policies and rates. Motion by Straube, seconded by Taylor to approve the updated policies and rates. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays, none. Motion carried. Street Project: No updates. Water Project: Mark Ruden from Origin Design was here to further discuss the project plan. There has been a good response from bidders. Tree removal will need to be completed by the end of the month on the eastside of the street. Motion was made by Schmitt, seconded by Backes to move forward with the removal of trees. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays, none. Motion carried. Annexation: No update Pitchcamp Policies & Requests: Policies were discussed and will be revisited again in the future. Matt Frana – Turkey River Watershed Project Coordinator: Matt presented and submitted a report for the update on the Iowa DNR Underserved Farmer and Farm Communities Grant. Driftless Multimedia Tourism Book 2024 Ad: Add was discussed for publication. Budget 2025: No update. Bily Clocks Report: A report summary was submitted. Library Report: A report summary was submitted. City Maintenance Report: A report summary was submitted. Adjournment: Motion by Taylor, seconded by Kelsay to adjourn at 8:20 pm. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays, none. Motion Carried. Attest: Nikki Wagner, City Clerk. Fund, Income Distribution General, $4335.35, $10724.39 Clocks, $70.00, $1990.76 Library Trust , $14711.78, $2428.86 Campground, $1012.79, $2389.72 Road Use, $2300.13, $3106.99 LOST, $6550.82, $0 Debt Service, $89.98, $0 Capitol, $0, $0 Water, $8465.78, $1014.13

50-4-JP-pd-14 7-14-JP-14

10-4-JP-12

For consideration email resume to rob@langsdairyinc.com

SECTION 00 1115 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR IOWA CITIES, COUNTIES AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS 2024 DECORAH MIDDLE SCHOOL ROOF REPLACEMENT DECORAH COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT To Whom It May Concern: You are hereby notified that at 12:00 PM, Central Time on March 25, 2024, at the Decorah Community School District Administration Office, 1732 Old Stage Road, Decorah, IA 52101, there will be a public hearing on the proposed plans, specifications, and estimated cost of the project. Any persons interested may appear and file objections to the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract, or cost of such improvement. The following is a description of the Public Improvement: The Project consists of the construction of removal of approximate 53,613 SF of existing roof system and installation of a new EPDM roof system. The location of the project is as follows: Decorah Middle School, 405 Winnebago Street, Decorah, IA 52101 Published by order of the Board of Directors, Decorah Community School District, Decorah, Iowa. By: Darlene Woodhouse Title: Board Secretary END OF SECTION 00 1115 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion March 14, 2024

10-4-PJ-12

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Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, March 14, 2023 7

Public Notices March 04, 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, Ross Hadley, and Brent Parker Mayor Borowski read a proclamation for Music in the Schools Month for the month of March. Consent agenda was presented. a. Minutes of the February 19 and February 26, 2024, Meetings b. Claims c. Resolution 3429 Setting Public Hearing for Proposed Property Tax Levy for Fiscal Year 2025 Budget d. Syttende Mai Celebration at Vesterheim Special Event Application e. Walk to End Alzheimer’s Fundraiser Special Event Application Olson made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented, Schissel seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Mayor Borowski opened the public hearing on the plans, specifications, form of contract and taking bids for the Decorah 2024 Bioretention Cell Project at 5:49 PM. No public comment. Mayor Borowski closed the public hearing at 5:50 PM. Hadley made a motion to approve Resolution 3430 approving the plans, specifications, form of contract and taking bids for the Decorah 2024 Bioretention Cell Project. Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Mayor Borowski opened the public hearing on plans, specifications, form of contract, and taking bids for the Decorah 2024 Stormwater Improvements Project at 5:52 PM. No public comment. Mayor Borowski closed the public hearing at 5:53 PM. Olson made a motion to approve Resolution 3431 approving the resolution approving the plans, specifications, form of contract and taking bids for the Decorah Stormwater Improvements Project. Schissel seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Neal made a motion to approve Resolution 3432 to approve the Energy Efficient and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) application, Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Hadley made a motion to approve Resolution 3433 to approve setting public hearing on Decorah Municipal Airport Corporate Hangar with Attached Terminal Project for April 15, 2024, Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Schissel made a motion to approve Resolution 3434 setting public hearing on Decorah Municipal Airport Solar Array Project for April 15, 2024, Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. 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 6:17 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer MONDAY, MARCH 4, 2024 PAYROLL, 3/1/24........................179,575.52 IA DEPT OF REVENUE, TAXES .. 5,264.16 CREDIT CARD FEES, FEES ............ 716.79 EBS HEALTH INSRANCE, CLAIMS COVERAGE.............. 102,894.50 JEFF ALBERT, EQUIPMENT ........1,000.00 BLACK HILLS ENERGY, GAS BILLS ...................................5,875.13 CAPITAL ONE, SUPPLIES ................ 30.00 DELTA DENTAL, MARCH DENTAL ........................1,375.24 PETTY CASH, POSTAGE ..................... 9.30 UPS, POSTAGE....................................12.36 WINN CO. SAN. LANDFILL, FEES .. 76.32 CHAMBER OF COMM./WINN CO DEVELOP, HOTEL/MOTEL 3RD QTR ..................................... 21,112.54 CONNELL FLYING SERVICE, FBO FEBRUARY ‘24 ................... 3,683.31 DECORAH JOBS, HOTEL/MOTEL 3RD QTR ....... 25,335.07 PETTY CASH, POSTAGE ................... 12.19 POSTMASTER DECORAH IA, POSTAGE ......................................... 357.28 QUADIENT LEASING USA, LEASE PAYMENT...........................214.68 ACE HARDWARE, SUPPLIES ........... 18.37 ALLIANT ENERGY, ELECTRIC BILLS ........................7,907.73 AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES, SUPPLIES......................................2,192.40 AMERICAN RED CROSS, TRAINING ......................................300.00 ANDREW SAMPSON, REFUND FINAL BILL OVERPAYMENT .....................19.82 BAKER & TAYLOR, BOOKS ........... 296.78 BODENSTEINER IMPLEMENT, TRACTOR SERVICE AND REPAIR ................................... 822.29 BRUCELLI ADVERTISING, SUPPLIES......................................... 134.40 BRUENING ROCK PRODUCTS, MATERIALS/MISC PROJ. .............. 187.56 CASPER PLBG & HTG, REPAIR ..........................................7,894.59 CENTER POINT LARGE PRINT, BOOKS ............................................... 66.73 CHRISTOPHER MICULINICH, REIMBURSEMENT BUSINESS CARDS ........................... 67.52 CROELL, MATERIALS .................1,038.00 DAKOTA SUPPLY GROUP, CHAINS ......................................4,077.10 DARE IOWA, DUES .......................... 100.00 DECORAH ELECTRIC, SERVICES ..................................... 1,662.50 DECORAH RENTAL , RENT............ 107.50 DECORAH TIRE SERVICE, REPAIR ........................................1,573.88 DECORAHNEWS.COM, BANNER . 521.00 DELL MARKETING, EQUIPMENT 277.85 DRIFTLESS MULTIMEDIA, ADVERTISING/PUBLICATION .. 1,500.29 DRIFTLESS YOGA CENTER/REEFUEL, PROGRAMMING ............................ 250.00 ERDMAN ENGINEERING, SERVICES ..................................... 8,164.00 EUROFINS ENVIRO TESTING, TESTING .......................................... 540.35 FAIR MANUFACTURING, REPAIR .............................................187.35 FAREWAY, SUPPLIES ........................ 19.98 FIRE SERVICE TRAINING BUREAU, TRAINING ....................................... 150.00 FISK FARM AND HOME, SUPPLIES......................................... 250.73 FORESTRY SUPPLIERS, SUPPLIES......................................... 190.84 MARK HAAN, SERVICES ............ 5,025.00 HAWKEYE TRUCK EQUIPMENT, REPAIR .............................................204.17 HAWKINS, TANK RENT ....................50.00 HEADINGTON REPAIR, MATERIALS ....................................330.60 HIRTH’S JUNK REMOVAL, NUISANCE ABATE......................1,250.00 IAWEA, CONFERENCE ................... 260.00 IMPACT COFFEE, SUPPLIES ............60.00 IMPACT7G, INC, ENGINEERING ..........................13,827.50 IOPONICS, PROGRAMMING..........141.25 IOWA ONE CALL, SERVICES .........125.40 JENNIFER OPHEIM, PROGRAM EXPENSE ....................500.00 KELTEK, EQUIPMENT .................8,887.67 KIRKWOOD COMM. COLLEGE, TRAINING ....................................... 545.00 LA COMMUNICATIONS, ADVERTISING ................................ 552.50 LABORATORY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM, LAB FEES ..................400.00 LEON’S AUTO & TRUCK REPAIR , SERVICE VEHICLES ...................... 269.00 LUTHER COLLEGE, REIMBUIRSEMENT DOMAIN........ 55.97 LYDON ELECTRIC MOTORS, PART .............................................. 295.16 MALCOM ENTERPRISES, SERVICES .......................................... 71.50 MID-AMERICA PUBLISHING, SUBSCRIPTION ................................45.00 MIDWEST BREATHING AIR, AIR TEST ......................................... 203.33 MIDWEST PATCH/HI-VIZ SAFETY, SIGNS .................................................10.00 NAPA AUTO PARTS, PARTS ............855.99 NORTHEAST IOWA TASK FORCE, DECEMBER 2023 JAG .....................73.55 OLSGARD AUTO SALES & SERVICE, PARTS ...........................................3,137.83 PERRY NOVAK ELECTRIC, SERVICES ..................................... 1,888.98 RACOM , PART ...................................63.50 RANDY’S AUTO PARTS, PARTS .... 191.22 SANDRY FIRE SUPPLY, REPAIR .... 439.13 SHERWIN WILLIAMS, PAINT ........132.07 SPAHN & ROSE LUMBER, SUPPLIES......................................1,484.45 STEVENSON TREE CARE , TREE REMOVAL........................16,949.00 STEVE’S CAR CARE CENTER, CAR WASHES ................................... 46.50 STOREY KENWORTHY, SUPPLIES . 98.68 TRAC SYSTEMS, SOFTWARE ........ 900.00

TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION PRODUCTS , REPAIR .................. 3,050.00 TRUCK COUNTRY OF IOWA, REPAIR ..........................................2,767.93 TRUCK EQUIPMENT , REPAIR ........56.84 UPS, POSTAGE....................................12.36 USA BLUE BOOK, SUPPLIES ...........69.80 VOLTMER , REPAIR ...................... 3,656.00 WHKS & CO., ENGINEERING ..... 2,811.59 WEIS BUICK GMC, PART.................. 73.66 WINDSTREAM, PHONE BILL .......... 38.17 WINN. COUNTY CONSERVATION BOARD COMMUNITY COMPOSING PROJECT ..............6,270.00 WINNMED, PHYSICAL ...................388.00 Revenue to Date February 29, 2024 General Fund............................. 5,829,915.30 Local Option Sales Tax ................961,331.87 Road Use Fund.............................723,051.02 Employee Benefits ....................... 968,511.57 Hotel/Motel .................................. 275,000.00 SSMID ........................................... 13,826.78 Park Special Gifts ............................8,094.15 Library Special Gifts ......................38,039.00 Street Equip Fund ..........................13,779.61 Debt Service Fund........................677,414.04 Special Projects ............................149,496.85 Water Utility Fund .................... 1,211,886.86 Sewer Utility Fund ....................... 915,989.43 Enterprise Project Interest .............. 10,786.77 Metronet .........................................67,554.00 Forest Utility ..................................80,043.45 Storm Sewer Utility .....................123,628.85 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion March 14, 2024 Decorah Community School Board Public Hearing & Regular School Board Meeting Minutes Central Administration Office Monday, March 11, 2024 5:30 p.m. Present: President Cindy Goodner, Directors: Ron Fadness, Carole Sand, and Aaron Zander. Supt. Dr. Tim Cronin, Director of Business Services Cathy Dietzenbach, Board Secretary Darlene Woodhouse, Staff, News Media, and Guests. Directors Sand and Zander participated via Zoom. Absent: Director Brian Petersburg. President Goodner called to order the public hearing at 5:30 p.m. The purpose of the public hearing was to hear comments oral or written concerning the Instructional Support Levy (ISL) continued participation program. There were no comments oral or written. President Goodner adjourned the public hearing at 5:31 p.m. President Goodner called to order the regular school board meeting at 5:31 p.m. Director Fadness read the mission statement. Old Business: Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Sand to approve the second reading of code #405.2-Licensed Employee Qualifications, Recruitment, Selection. Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Sand to approve the agenda as presented. Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Zander moved, seconded by Director Fadness to approve the consent items as presented: February 12, 2024 minutes, bills and personnel as listed below. New Hires: a. Isaac Cooper (Varsity Assistant Boys Soccer Coach) Level D, Step I b. Everett Wegge (Part-time High School Food Service) Step I c. Paulette Darling (Carrie Lee Food Service Kitchen Manager) Step 1 + Manager d. Heidi Snell-Anderson (Fifth Grade Science Teacher) e. Middle School ELL Teacher f. Josh Fenske (Middle School Boys Track Coach) Level E, Step I g. Jenn DeLaRosa (Middle School Girls Track Coach) Level E, Step 3 h. ... Kalea Oftedahl (Middle School Girls Track Coach) Level E, Step 2 i. Brian Waskow (Middle School Girls Track Coach) Level E, Step 1 j. Jesse Halweg (Middle School Boys Track Coach), Level E, Step I Resignations: a. Danyce Jacobs (7th Grade Volleyball Coach) b. Regina Kirkeby (Custodian) Transfer: a. Alec Zwanziger (High School Associate to School Technology Technician) There was no communication from the public. The presentation was postponed. New Business: Motion: Director Fadness introduced the Resolution to Consider Continued Participation in the Instructional Support Program and moved its adoption, seconded by Director Sand. Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Sand moved, seconded by Director Zander to adopt the Board Resolution for Budget Adjustment (Guarantee). Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to approve the AEA Food Service Purchasing Agreement as presented. Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to set a public hearing for the Middle School roof project on Monday, March 25, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. (noon). Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Zander moved, seconded by Director Sand to set the date for the Middle School roof project bid acceptance for Monday, April 29, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. (noon). Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Sand moved, seconded by Director Fadness to approve the collaboration agreements for teacher education programs (Morningside & UNI). Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Zander to adopt the Resolution proclaiming “March as Music in our Schools Month”. Motion carried by all voting aye. Supt. Dr. Cronin discussed the property tax rate amidst the State not setting the supplemental state aid (SSA) yet. The district must submit its budget to the county auditor’s office by March 15th. The auditor’s office will include a tax statement with the property tax mailings, new this year. The district wants to be conservative and set the SSA at zero percent to allow for an adjustment once the SSA is set by the State. The district can lower the property tax rate after publication, but it can’t raise the tax rate. The zero percent SSA will set the prope1iy tax rate at $12.55 per $1,000 assessed valuation. The board anticipates this tax rate to be lower. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Sand to approve setting SSA at zero percent, anticipating setting a higher SSA with a lower tax property tax rate in the future. Motion ca1Tied by all voting aye. Supt. Dr. Cronin updated the board on the elementary mold mitigation, Middle School roof project, district bus-at-home policy, and facilities committee meetings. Open Enrollment In: Natalie Carver - ECSE for 2023-2024, from South Winneshiek to Decorah CSD. Parent: Ashley Carver Open Enrollment Out: • Savannah McCann -11th Grade for 2023-2024, from Decorah CSD to Dubuque (online). Parent: Colinee McCann • Kendrick Formanek- Kindergarten for 2024-2025, from Decorah CSD to South

Winneshiek. Parents: Constance & Brenton Formanek Director of Business Services, Cathy Dietzenbach, presented the monthly financial reports for February 2024. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:20 p.m. Cindy Goodner, Board President Darlene Woodhouse, Board Secretary Claims for March 2024– General Fund Prepaids: Alliant Energy, Electricity..............21,851.52 Century Link (Lumen), Telephones-dist. ................................ 603.93 Decorah CSD Gen. Fund BMO, CC ........................... 13,710.90 Hotel Winneshiek, Award Banquet Rent ......................... 150.00 U.S. Cellular, Phone Usage-district .1,180.29 Total General Fund Prepaid Claims ...........................$37,496.64 General Fund Payables: Ace Hardware, Supplies-district ......... 378.03 Acentek, Internet .................................540.00 Ahlers Cooney, Legal Services ........ 1,113.00 Alliant Energy, Electricity.............. 11,983.00 All Makes, HS Grounds Repair ..........743.75 Attainment Company, HS Spec. Ed. Equip...........................250.95 Betteridge, Margaret, Interpreting/Conf..............................125.00 Blick Art Materials, Art Supplies-HS .194.00 Brueing, Keith, Fuel Reimbursement ...33.23 Bruening Rock Products, Salt-district.190.95 Capital Sanitary Supply, Cleaning Supply ............................. 2,162.46 Carquest, Misc. Vehicle Repairs .........137.08 Casper Plumbing & Heating, Maint. ...........................................13,251.43 CDW Government, Purchased Service ..........................4,350.26 CEC, Repairs-district ..........................410.00 Chileda Institute, Tuition .................6,864.00 City of Decorah, Water/Sewer ......... 1,699.55 Clayton Ridge CSD, Open Enroll Tuition .....................18,520.41 Clinicare Corporation, Tuition ....... 99,866.57 Cronin, Tim, Reimbursement for Mileage .............105.74 Culligan Water Conditioning, Cooler Rental ......................................54.00 Culver Hahn Electric, Repairs-MS .....803.79 Decorah Activity Fund, RevTrak-Year .................................1,433.00 Decorah Mobile Glass, Repairs-Bus Garage ..........................100.00 Decorah Rental, Kerosene ..................124.50 DHS Cashier 1st Floor, Medicaid Direct ..........................23,703.91 Donovan Group, Other Service Purchase ..................2,500.00 Don’s Sales & Service, Repairs-Bus Garage ..........................314.44 Driftless Multimedia, Advertising ...1,262.78 Farmers Win Coop, Diesel ............... 1,342.66 Fastenal, Parts/Repairs-CL..................224.68 Fisk Farm & Home, Supplies-district .107.16 Grainger, Supplies-Bus Garage........2,954.37 Goldline CDL, ELDT Driver Online Tr. ................. 1,600.00 Gopher Stage Lighting, Inspection Aud. .............................. 2,448.00 Heinemann, Supplies-district ...........2,526.72 IA HSAP, HSAP Registration ............... 30.00 Iowa Communications Network, Internet ...........................................1,882.50 John Deere Financial, Supplies-district ................................ 151.79 Kauffman, Carrie, Fuel Reimbursement ...........................65.75 Kinderhaus, 4 Year Old Preschool Prog. ............ 3,505.41 Kwik Trip, Fuel ..............................15,420.23 Lakemary Center, Inc., Tuition ........2,960.00 Letterwerks Sign City, Vehicle Decals ................................1,106.00 Luther College, Tuition ....................1,000.00 Malcom Enterprises, Garbage Service 855.00 Marco, Copier Expenses/Repairs .....4,833.17 McDonald Supply Company, Supply-dist. ....................................1,154.08 Meirick, Lee, Fuel Reimbursement ......25.51 Mercy One Occupational Health, Drug Test .............................................60.00 Miracle Recreation, CL Repairs.......4,466.46 Mississippi Welders, Supplies.............649.37 Moss Roofing & Inst., Repairs-district ...............................1,715.00 Mr. Carpet Floor Shop, JC Carpet ...... 168.82 Napa Auto Parts, Misc. Vehicle Repairs .................... 1,065.37 Nisse Childcare/Pre., 4 Year Preschool.............................6,231.84 Northeast IA Community College, Tuition ............................................ 6,236.00 Northeast IA Montessori, 4 Year Pre. ...................................... 3,505.41 Novak, Perry Electric, Repairs-MS .... 415.92 Olsgard Auto, Vehicle Repairs ............918.94 Postville CSD, Open Enrollment Tuition ............... 5,812.11 Powerschool, Contract Service ........3,409.55 Quadient Leasing, HS Copier ............ 341.76 Rausch, Jason, Fuel Reimbursement .... 46.45 Rogue, HS Supplies ............................ 510.00 School Specialty, JC/HS Supplies.......127.65 Schultz Strings, MS Repairs ................. 71.40 Smith, Krista, Travel Expenses-Cheer 116.16 South Winneshiek CSD, Open Enroll-Tuit. ..............................419.93 St. Benedict School, 4 Year Preschool ............................7,010.82 Sunflower Childcare Center, 4 Year Pre. ...................................... 7,789.80 Thompson, Jordan, Fuel Reimbursement ...........................66.83 Timberline Billing Service, Medicaid .......................................2,543.25 Tri-State Sound & Light, HS Repairs .....................................2,888.13 Truck Country, Vehicle Repairs/Maint. ......................242.78 Tyler Technologies, Software-district............................. 7,772.00 Value Inspired, HSAP Equipment ....3,450.00 Vande Krol, Kris, BOEE Filing Fee....123.00 Viking Pest, Pest Control, District ...... 100.00 Total GENERAL Fund Claims .. $305,683.61 Management Fund Payables: A & J Petersburg, Auto Insurance .......238.00 Total Management Fund Payables: .$238.00 PPEL Fund Payables: Winneshiek County Treasurer, Prop. Taxes .....................................3,973.00 Total PPEL Fund Payables:............ $3,973.00 Total Add’t March GENERAL Fund Payable Advanced Environ. Testing, JC Repairs ......................................1,377.00 Dalco, Cleaning Supplies-district ....1,218.10 Decorah Mobile Glass, Repairs ............65.00 Demco, JC Supplies ............................270.58 Fareway, Supplies-district ...................424.37 Kauffman, Carrie, Reimburse Fuel .......68.47 Keystone AEA, Special Education Supply ..............1,336.17 Lakemary Center, Inc., Tuition ........7,030.00 Marco, HS Copier Supplies ................320.25 McCain, Kevin, Reimburse Fuel ..........53.59 National History Day IA, Supplies .......30.00 Reinhardt, Jacob, Reimburse Fuel ........ 48.12 Revtrak, Inc., February Trans. Fee... 1,415.02 Riley, Adam, Reimburse Fuel ...............25.47 Rollins, Gunnar, Reimburse Fuel .......... 55.86 Stewartville Auto Center, Vehicle Repairs .................................274.45 Tandem Tire, Repairs ..........................256.00 Verizon Connect, Supplies ..................962.66 William V. Mac Gill, JC-Supplies......... 79.02 Total Add’t March GENERAL Fund Payables ............................$15,310.13 Claims for February 2024-

Food Service Fund Anderson Erickson Dairy Co., Dairy .............................................. 7,546.67 Country View Dairy, Dairy .................636.00 DCSD Activity Fund, Produce from Garden .......................... 14.80 DCSD General Fund (BMO), CC Purchases ................................. 1,050.11 Elliott, Chad, Reimbursement for Supplies ............... 27.00 EMS Detergent, Detergent/Supplies 1,023.00 Fareway, Food/Catering ........................ 60.77 Farmers Union Cooperative, Supplies-Grill ....................................182.04 Gallery of Tops, Supplies-Kitchen ...... 802.40 Iowa Food Hub, Produce/Dairy .......2,372.79 Joe’s Restaurant Equipment, Repairs ...........................................1,568.40 Kwik Star, Produce ...............................88.20 Martin Bros, Food/Produce/Supplies ................39,018.39 Pan-O-Gold, Bread ..........................1,821.26 Rapids, Supplies..................................458.09 Total Food Service Claims ........... $56,669.92 Claims for February 2024 – Activity Fund Ace Fundraising, MS Fundraising Supply ...............12,498.00 Adams, Gene, HS Wrestling Meals ....600.00 Ahrndt, Martin, HS Speech Judge ......150.00 Berland, Larry, HS BB Official...........100.00 Berns, Bev, HS Speech Judge ............. 150.00 Bohr, Tami, BBB & GBB Posters .......108.00 Burton, Jen, HS Speech Judge ............150.00 Cantine-Maxson, Susan, HS Speech Judge............................... 150.00 Carlson, Jon, Reimbursement Pizza-BBall ............. 170.00 Center Point Urbana, Wrestling Entry Fee .......................... 150.00 Chatfield High School, BBall Tourn. Fee ............................... 100.00 Country Garden, Flowers Bowling/Wrestling .............. 120.00 Darling, Brad, MS Wrestling Worker ... 25.00 Decorah CSD-Nutrition Dept., Catering .......................................... 5,088.09 Decorah General Fund (BMO) CC Purchase ................................... 4,564.38 Dramatic Publishing, Speech Fee .........55.00 Durbin, Shannon, HS Speech Judge ...150.00 Ewald, Gary, HS BB Official .............. 140.00 Fareway, Supplies-HS ......................... 228.83 Flathers, Colleen, HS Speech Judge ... 150.00 Hawkeye Stages, HS Boy BBall Travel ..................... 1,257.00 Henkes, Owen, HS Speech Judge ....... 150.00 Hill, Kaleb, MS Event Worker .............. 30.00 Hudl, HS Supplies............................... 402.00 Hull, Dennis, HS Speech Judge .......... 150.00 IHSSA, Large Group Speech Registration .. 1,650.00 Independence High School, HS Bowling....................................... 320.00 Iowa Sports Supply, MS Supplies .......309.00 Jostens, Inc.,

MS Yearbook Supplies ...................3,778.60 Krauskopf, Kurt, HS B/GB Ofﬁcial....250.00 Kvale, Aaron, HS Speech Judge ......... 150.00 Letterwerks, HS Decals/Pins ...........1,128.00 Luther College, JC Admissions...........760.00 Luzum, Richard HS Girls BBall Ofﬁcial ....................... 50.00 Mabe’s Pizza, HS Pizza District Speech ..................752.56 Mason City High School, Wrest. Entry Fee................................100.00 McBride, Cory, HS Percussion Supplies ................. 1,500.00 Meldahl, Breelyn, FFA Refund Fruit Sales .......................14.00 Newcom, Joy, HS Speech Judge .........150.00 Newcom, Mark, HS Speech Judge ..... 150.00 Olson, Patricia, HS Speech Judge ....... 150.00 Oneota Co-op, XC Supplies.................... 9.69 O’Shea, Pat, MS Wrestling Announcer. 25.00 Perfect Edge, HS Supplies .................... 45.00 Putnam, Madeline,

MS Wrestling Worker .........................25.00 Rausch, Jason, Reimbursement Conference .............. 154.00 Reckward, Jackie, HS Wrestle/Music Meal .................1,597.50 Straube, Kari, HS Speech Judge ......... 150.00 Trewin, Karen, HS Madrigal Services 600.00 Unbreakable Female Athlete, HS Supplies.......................................820.00 Walter, Adrian, MS Wrestling Worker ..25.00 West Music, HS Music Repairs ..........153.99 Wild, Louise, HS Speech Judge .......... 150.00 Williams, Maleek, MS Wrestling Ofﬁcial ....................... 200.00 Winterset Schools, Ofﬁciating Fees .... 217.50 XTream Arena, HS Girls Wrestling Parking ..............225.00 Total Activity Claims ...................$42,446.14 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion March 14, 2024

Public Notices

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • March 14, 2024

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Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • March 14, 2024

8 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, March 14, 2024

Good Shepherd hosts UW-Madison Nordic Folk Arts project presentation

Decorah Park & Rec annual Easter Egg Hunt March 24

A presentation by Dr. Anna Rue, Director of the Center for the Study of Upper Midwestern Cultures in Madison, Wis., will be held at 7:30 p.m., March 19, at Good Shepherd Church in Decorah. Rue’s presentation, “Supporting Nordic American Folk Arts in the Upper Midwest: Past Projects and New Directions”, will highlight the Nordic Folk Arts project at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. How BONUSthe the$1,000 projectSIGNING works to support practice and study of Nordic American traditional arts in the region and beyond will be disEnjoy working outside and looking cussed. for a change? We provide on the Rue is a Decorah job training! Class A ornative B CDL and is desirable. involved theproblem, Sustaining Nowith CDL, no we will help you get Arts one. in the Scandinavian Folk Upper Midwest Project. Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953 www.olsonexplosives.com The event is free and open to info@olsonexp.com the public, with refreshments Equal to follow.Opportunity A Sons Employer of Norway 11-tf-PJ-12 Lodge meeting will be held prior to the presentation at 7 p.m.

Decorah Park & Recreation’s annual Easter Egg Hunt will take place at Will Baker Athletic Fields Sunday, March 24, beginning at 3 p.m. The Easter Bunny will make a special visit to greet children eight-years-old and under as they find plastic eggs filled with candy or prizes. Children will also receive a participation gift at the close of the hunt. The deadline to register for the Easter Egg Hunt is Monday, March 18. The per child fee can be made online or in the Park-Rec Office located at the Decorah Municipal Center. There is a sign-up sheet/waiver for this event and each child who registers receives an official Easter basket which is their ticket into the hunt.

FULL TIME POSITIONS

$1,000 SIGNING BONUS

MECHANICS Seeking applicants for Full Time Mechanic position.

Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953 www.olsonexplosives.com info@olsonexp.com Equal Opportunity Employer 11-tf-PJ-12

Registration due March 18

Letter Winneshiek County Supervisors to take bids for development of flood buffer land

Dear Editor: A small parcel of land that has served as a buffer of flood protection for local residents is slated to be sold to the highest bidder on March 18, against widespread opposition from county voters. The 7+ acre parcel of land, located in the unincorporated community of Freeport immediately northeast of Decorah, became very controversial recently after Iowa Roto Cast Plastics (located in Freeport) approached the Board of Supervisors (BoS) last summer about purchasing at least part of the parcel to construct a large solar array. In January, after the ruling majority of the BoS announced their intent to sell the land to the highest bidder, many local residents protested, including those who live in Freeport and

Public Notices March 11, 2024 Call to Order & Determination of Quorum: The Winneshiek County Area Solid Waste Agency meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mark Vick at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 11th, 2024 at the Winneshiek County Annex Building. Voting members present were; Dan Langreck, Mark Vick, Steve Kelsay, Leon Kipp, Don DiLaura, Todd Ihde, Dennis Wilkins, and Mark Faldet. A quorum was determined by the chairperson. Also present were; Counsel Jana Evelsizer Olson, Landfill Director T.J Schissel, and Landfill Operator Meghan Scheidel, and Clayton County representative Steve Doeppke. Approval of Minutes & Agenda: Moved by DiLaura, seconded by Faldet, to approve the meeting minutes of 01/08/24. All voting approved. Moved by DiLaura, seconded by Faldet to approve the 03/11/24 agenda. All voting approved. Introduction of Guests: None Report from Secretary-Treasurer: 01/31/24 Checking Balance: $341,587.75 01/31/24 Checking Interest: $13.35 01/31/24 Certificates of Deposit (Operating): $1,645,774.04 01/31/24 Certificates of Deposit (Closure-Post Closure): $6,957,695.30 01/31/24 Total Investments: $8,603,469.34 02/29/24 Checking Balance: $411,485.43 02/29/24 Checking Interest: $14.64 02/29/24 Certificates of Deposit (Operating): $1,645,774.04 02/29/24 Certificates of Deposit (Closure-Post Closure): $6,957,695.30 02/29/24 Total Investments: $8,603.469.34 Public Comment: There was no public comment. Approve Claims Paid: Moved by Wilkins, seconded by DiLaura to approve the January claims of $118,774.21 and February claims of $92,028.19. All voting approved. Committee Reports: Landfill Director’s Report AECOM was on-site sampling wells and ASR. Cover dirt was hauled. Evaporator and aerators were installed. Engineer’s Report ACM comments were received from DNR to continue gas monitoring. Spring sampling will take place in May. EPA greenhouse gas report will be submitted. Committee Reports: 1. Item 6.3-Approval resolution for financial assurance plan to the Iowa DNR. Moved by Ihde, seconded by Langreck to approve resolution. Roll call vote: Mark Vick, aye. Dan Langreck, aye. Leon Kipp, aye. Mark Faldet, aye. Don DiLaura, aye. Dennis Wilkins, aye. Todd Ihde, aye. Steve Kelsay, aye. All voting approved. Motion carries. 2. Item 6.5 Discuss/approve reinstating Jakes Roofing charge account. Moved by DiLaura, seconded by Wilkins to reinstate. All voting approved. Motion carries. 3. Item 6.6-Discuss/approve possible land purchase. Motion rejected. Establish Time & Date of Next Meeting: The WCASWA will meet on June 10th , 2024 at 5:00 pm at the Winneshiek County Sanitary Landfill. Adjournment: Moved by DiLaura, seconded by Ihde to adjourn at 5:40 pm. All voting approved. Leon Kipp, Secretary Winneshiek County Area Solid Waste Agency General Ledger As of January 31, 2024 Type, Date, Num, Name, Detail, Payments, Balance ...................................................... 331,179.85 Deposit, 01/02/2024, Deposit......... 11,878.23 Check, 01/02/2024, 11890, AECOM, Engineer........................................39,265.78 Check, 01/02/2024, 11891, CENTURY LINK, Telephone................................... 80.16 Check, 01/02/2024, 11892, Winneshiek County Auditor, Payroll..................48,750.92 Check, 01/02/2024, 11893, Carolina Software, Office.................. 200.00 Check, 01/02/2024, 11894, Windridge Implement, Fuel............... 128.70 Check, 01/02/2024, 11895, PIONEER TELEPHONE, Telephone.................... 14.73 Check, 01/02/2024, 11896, CULLIGAN WATER CONDITIONING, Office......44.25 Check, 01/02/2024, 11897, WINNESHIEK COUNTY RECYCLING, Glass.......... 39.36 Check, 01/02/2024, 11898, MIDWEST ELECTRONIC RECOVERY, TV recycling...................................... 100.00 Deposit, 01/08/2024, Deposit...........3,578.21 Deposit, 01/08/2024, Deposit.........39,614.00 Check, 01/08/2024, 11899, Bruening Rock Products, Road Rock.......................1,173.05 Check, 01/08/2024, 11900, WINNESHIEK COUNTY RECYCLING, Glass.......... 45.12 Check, 01/08/2024, 11901, AcenTek, Internet.................................................54.95 Check, 01/08/2024, 11902, Village Farm & Home, Storm water..................... 1,069.57 Check, 01/08/2024, 11903, Fisk Farm and Home, Shop............... 584.84 Check, 01/15/2024, 11904, Decorah Tire Service, Tire repair............................... 45.50 Check, 01/15/2024, 11905, Ziegler Inc., Repairs............................................ 1,082.51 Check, 01/15/2024, 11906,

ARAMARK UNIFORM SERVICES, INC., Office........................................ 216.92 Check, 01/18/2024, ACH, USPS, Office.................................................... 30.21 Deposit, 01/22/2024, Deposit........... 4,582.54 Deposit, 01/22/2024, Deposit......... 23,024.49 Check, 01/22/2024, 11907, AGVANTAGE FS INC., Fuel.................................. 3,465.43 Check, 01/22/2024, 11908, MiEnergy Cooperative, Electric........................... 413.23 Check, 01/22/2024, 11909, Hacker, Nelson & Co.P.C., Accounting..................16,800.00 Check, 01/22/2024, 11910, Decorah Tire Service, Tires ................................. 1,057.36 Check, 01/22/2024, 11911, WINNESHIEK COUNTY RECYCLING, Glass............ 40.32 Check, 01/22/2024, 11912, Olsgard Auto Sales, Repairs..................................... 543.38 Check, 01/29/2024, ACH, Treasurer-State of Iowa, Sales Tax.1,199.04 Deposit, 01/29/2024, Deposit......... 44,372.46 Check, 01/29/2024, 11913, CULLIGAN WATER CONDITIONING, Office........ 52.75 Check, 01/29/2024, 11914, Hawkeye Sanitation, Inc., Appliance recycling.........................1,386.00 Check, 01/29/2024, 11915, Decorah Overhead Door LLC, Repairs............125.00 Check, 01/29/2024, 11916, STOREY/KENWORTHY, Office........64.53 Check, 01/29/2024, 11917, HAWKEYE RECYCLING, Glass............................31.44 Check, 01/29/2024, 11918, Starnet Technologies, Leachate.......... 480.00 Check, 01/29/2024, 11919, MIDWEST ELECTRONIC RECOVERY, TV recycling...................................... 100.00 Check, 01/29/2024, 11920, PIONEER TELEPHONE, Telephone.................... 15.48 Deposit, 01/31/2024, Deposit........... 2,118.83 Check, 01/31/2024, ACH, First Data Merchant Bank, January fees............... 73.68 Deposit, 01/31/2024, Interest, 13.35 129,182.11, 118,774.21 129,182.11, 118,774.21, 341,587.75 General Ledger As of February 29, 2024 Type, Date, Num, Name, Detail, Payments, Balance Balance..........................................341,587.75 Deposit, 02/05/2024, Deposit.........22,457.57 Check, 02/05/2024, 1192, CENTURY LINK, Telephone.................................80.18 Check, 02/05/2024, 11922, AcenTek, Internet................................................. 54.95 Check, 02/05/2024, 11923, WINNESHIEK COUNTY RECYCLING, Glass.......... 21.48 Check, 02/05/2024, 11924, Decorah Tire Service, Tire repair.............................217.78 Check, 02/05/2024, 11925, Winneshiek County Auditor, Payroll................34,579.74 Check, 02/05/2024, 11926, AECOM, Engineer........................................24,941.75 Check, 02/05/2024, 11927, Clark Tire Pros, Tire repair...........................................434.45 Check, 02/05/2024, 11928, Fisk Farm and Home, Shop.......................................730.40 Deposit, 02/12/2024, Deposit.........42,708.52 Check, 02/12/2024, 11929, Buddenberg Custom Services, Repairs....................57.50 Check, 02/12/2024, 11930, UnityPoint Clinic-Occupational Medicine, Employee screen.................................. 42.00 Check, 02/12/2024, 11931, Eurofins Environment Testing NC, Monitoring wells.............................1,761.25 Check, 02/12/2024, 11932, RICOH, Office ...................................................35.96 Check, 02/12/2024, 11933, WinnMed, Employee screen.................................. 24.00 Check, 02/12/2024, 11934, STOREY/KENWORTHY, Office .................................. 18.30 Check, 02/12/2024, 11935, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Shop.........................................192.71 Check, 02/12/2024, 11936, JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL, Shop............................449.99 Deposit, 02/19/2024, Deposit...........2,318.38 Deposit, 02/19/2024, Deposit.........70,582.23 Check, 02/19/2024, 11937, AGVANTAGE FS INC., Fuel......... 4,225.50 Check, 02/19/2024, 11938, Ziegler Inc., Repairs...............................................591.43 Check, 02/19/2024, 11939, Driftless Multimedia LLC, Advertising............225.53 Check, 02/19/2024, 11940, Hacker,Nelson & Co.P.C., Accounting....................2,540.00 Check, 02/19/2024, 11941, MiEnergy Cooperative, Electric..........................487.40 Check, 02/19/2024, 11942, WINNESHIEK COUNTY RECYCLING, Glass.......... 44.28 Check, 02/19/2024, 11943, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, State Tipping Fees........................10,989.38 Deposit, 02/26/2024, Deposit.........20,078.76 Check, 02/26/2024, 11944, MIDWEST ELECTRONIC RECOVERY, TV recycling...................................... 100.00 Check, 02/26/2024, 11945, AECOM, Engineer..........................................8,845.65 Check, 02/26/2024, 11946, PIONEER TELEPHONE, Telephone....................14.67 Check, 02/29/2024, ACH, TreasurerState of Iowa, Sales tax......................298.92 Deposit, 02/29/2024, Deposit...........3,765.77 Check, 02/29/2024, ACH, First Data Merchant Bank, February fees............22.99 Deposit, 02/29/2024, Interest................. 14.64 161,925.87, 92,028.19 TOTAL, 161,925.87, 92,028.19, 411,485.43 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion March 14, 2024

personally suffered extensive damage to their homes during the historic 2016 flood. Because the land was set aside by the previous Board of Supervisors as a natural flood buffer and was planted with native grasses after that event, locals considered the move a violation of the citizens’ trust. A public meeting was held by the citizens in Freeport that drew approximately 80 residents, all against selling the property. Additionally, a petition was organized online that received approximately 400 signatures, all against selling the property. The first public hearing held by the BoS on Jan. 8 drew many residents who spoke against the proposed sale. In spite of the widespread opposition, the BoS majority voted again in February to hold another public hearing to accept bids, which will happen March 18 at 10 a.m. The Winneshiek County Citizens for Good Government are encouraging everyone to attend and speak out against the sale. Lyle Otte, Decorah

Law Enforcement Winneshiek Sheriff Brandon Kimber, age 25, of Cresco, was located and arrested in Fayette County March 7 at 11:46 a.m., following a search by the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office and Decorah Police Department. Kimber was transported and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail on three separate arrest warrants. Arrest warrants were for violation of parole, violation of probation, burglary 3rd degree – motor vehicle 2nd or subsequent and possession of burglar’s tools. This case is still under investigation with additional charges pending. Robert Gronemann, age 52, of Minneapolis, Minn., was involved in a single vehicle collision with a guard rail March 5 at 4:44 p.m. on Old Stage Road near Decorah. Gronemann was subsequently arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail for operating while under the influence, 2nd offense.

Obituaries Nanette Eklund

Dr. Nanette J. Eklund, 92, passed away March 1, 2024, at The Wealshire of Bloomington, Minn., where she resided. She was born on Nov. 13, 1931, in Grand Rapids, Mich., to Blanche Nanette Eklund and James Timmer, and was a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church. Nanette’s focus was always education. Although she did not learn to read until the sixth grade, she was a lifelong learn-

Dennis Curtin

Dennis (Denny/Gramps) James Curtin died on March 8, 2024. He was born May 22, 1947, in Waukon, the son of Joseph and Eleanor (Casey) Curtin. He was raised Dennis Curtin and resided in Waukon. Throughout his life, Denny demonstrated compassion and generosity. He was not known to worry but to generally assume things would always work out, expressing this positive outlook and attitude to others as well. Gramps will be remembered by many for his greeting with a big smile, generous hug and lively ”Howdy!” or “Hello, darlin’!” He made it a point to express his love openly, ensuring that everyone around him knew how much they meant to him, especially his children and grandchildren. His love and pride of his horses and mules was well known and he found joy in trail riding with family and friends. He enjoyed his excavating business, driving truck and opening Curtin’s Arena with Joe, where many rodeos and get-togethers were enjoyed and frequently only partially remembered.

PETER FRANA, 57, of rural Decorah, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Ossian Senior Hospice. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, March 16, from 1 to 3 p.m., at St. Wenceslaus School in Spillville. LAVERNE HAGEMAN, 83, of Fort Atkinson, passed away on Monday, March 11, 2024, at Ossian Senior Hospice. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, March 18, at 11 a.m., at St. Aloysius Catholic Church at 304 South

er and teacher. She earned her B.A. at Dana College, Master’s at Kansas State University and Doctorate at the University of Iowa, becoming the head of the Department of Education at Luther College. She was a world traveler, visiting many countries with her dear friend, John Mulligan. Nanette loved to talk to people from other countries, whether abroad or at home. She was also a proud lifelong Democrat and ardent Joe Biden supporter. A truly remarkable woman with a love of classical music, she was a much loved mother, grandmother and dear friend.

She is survived by Timmerly (Gary Smith) Eklund of Washburn, Ill., Sally (Steven) Sawin of Middletown, Va., and Frida (John) Maiers of Bloomington; 13 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by son, Andrew Eklund; daughter, Catherine Burchell; special friend, John Mulligan; husband, Rev. Milton Eklund; husband, Zong Sui Yang; brother, George Timmer; sister, Catherine Offenhauer; as well as her parents. The deceased requested no services. Memorials can be made to PBS or Minnesota Public Radio.

Denny was immensely proud of his Irish heritage and visited his ancestral home with family members, where he readily made even more friends. He loved celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and participating in the parade (where he will be honored this year). Denny demonstrated a strong determination and resilience, surviving two types of cancer and met Alzheimer’s Disease with tenacity and grace. Denny conscientiously stepped away from public gatherings in recent years, expressing his concern that he might forget names and how this may impact others. He expressed particular concern of this happening with his family, but it never did. The love and fun he shared with Vickie was reflected in her dedicated care for him. Denny was known for his long goodbyes (especially for those waiting to leave with him), always ensuring he spoke with nearly everyone before departing a gathering. In the end, he chose a polite form of an Irish goodbye, departing quickly and quietly on his own terms, a final gesture of kindness to those surrounding him with love as he passed. Denny is survived by his favorite wife, Vickie; his children: Shannon (Joe) Breitenstein of

Decorah, Rachel Curtin (Kyle Halverson) of Waukon, Stacy Hamm (Chad Olson) of Rossville, Iowa, Jason Curtin of Tiffin, Iowa, and Joe (Shanea) Curtin of Waukon; stepsons, Ben Kruse and Adam (Ashley) Kruse; 15 grandchildren: Tyler (Amber) Baker, Justin (Julia) Baker, Jennifer Hamm, Bryan (Madison) Hamm, Nick Hamm, Brenden Curtin, Deanna Damiano (Brody Lawson), Derinda Damiano, Kasi Curtin (Ross Berger), Jacob Curtin, Joseph Curtin, Kane Curtin, Kole Curtin and Liam and Levi Kruse; six great-grandchildren; siblings, Mary Curtin and Reg (Cindy) Curtin; sister in-law, Kate Curtin; and his “adopted” son, Matt (Becky) Koch. He was a special uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Patrick. In accordance with one of his final requests, a celebration of Denny’s life will be held at Curtin’s Arena on Saturday, April 6, 2024, beginning at 2 p.m. Friends and family are invited to join in honoring and celebrating his life as he lived it, with food, music and drinks. Due to liability issues of the celebration being held at a business, we are unable to serve alcoholic beverages, but you are more than welcome to bring your own.

Service Notices

Maryville Street in Calmar, with Rev. Henry Huber presiding. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, March 17, from 2 to 5 p.m., at Helms Funeral Home, French Chapel at 202 South Washington Street in Calmar, and one hour before the service at the church on Monday morning. BERNADETTE MAGNER, 93, formerly of Decorah, passed away on Friday, March 8, 2024, at her home in Cedar Rapids surrounded by

her family. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, March 20, at 11 a.m., at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Decorah with Rev. Donald Hertges presiding. Burial will be in St. Bridget Cemetery near Bluffton. Visitation will be Tuesday, March 19, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Helms Funeral Home at 306 E. Water Street in Decorah, and after 10 a.m. at the church Wednesday morning. There will be a rosary at 3:30 p.m., before the visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday.

School board continued from front the upcoming year being established. In light of this uncertainty, the Decorah Community School District has taken the responsible step of estimating the SSA at 3%, resulting in an overall tax rate of $12.37. This estimate aligns with tax rates in previous years. However, should the legislature set an SSA lower than 3%, it will impact our overall tax rate. In anticipation of this, the district will submit a budget on March 15 with a conservative estimate, assuming a 0% SSA, leading to a tax rate of $12.55. This precautionary measure is taken to ensure compliance with the statutory deadline. It is important to note that the School Board retains the authority to revise the budget after the SSA is established. In the event that the SSA aligns with our initial estimate of 3%, the board has the capacity to pass a lower tax rate, reverting back to $12.37. Please be aware that the Board is only permitted to reduce the tax rate and is not authorized to increase it.

We acknowledge the potential impact on our community, and we assure you that this matter is entirely contingent on the timely setting of SSA by the legislature. We remain committed to transparency and responsible fiscal management. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we navigate these budgetary complexities. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.” – DCSD Supt. Tim Cronin. Board members will revisit the budget estimates and tax rate once the SSA figures are released from the state. Black mold resolved During Monday’s meeting, board members were updated on a black mold issue discovered at John Cline and West Side Schools. Greg Schaller, District Director of Building and Ground, said the mold was discovered recently and he believes the mold may have developed following a summer carpet cleaning.

Advanced Environmental Testing and Abatement, a Midwest firm licensed for mold and asbestos removal and cleaning, was called in to assess the mold issue, and Servicemaster was contracted for a thorough cleaning of the areas affected. An ultraviolet light was used in the process. The Advanced Environmental team is expected to return in the coming weeks to determine the issue is resolved. Middle school roof replacement An estimated start date of May 28, 2024, was set for the start of the Decorah Middle School roof replacement project. A public meeting is set at 12 p.m., Monday, March 25, to approve drawings and specifications for the project. A bid opening is scheduled at another public meeting at 12 p.m., April 29. Board members reviewed a timetable set by the architecture firm Shive-Hattery Inc., contracted to oversee the project. The firm estimated a completion date of Aug. 30.

In other business Monday night, board members discussed new bus scheduling software and the process for some rural bus drivers to keep the school buses at their homes, provided it is more convenient and cost-effective to start their routes from there. Four bus drivers currently keep their buses at home. Bond referendum Board members were updated on the ongoing bond referendum roadmap for a proposed new elementary school facility to replace John Cline School. Following a February meeting, a special standalone website is being developed to answer frequently asked questions regarding the proposal, with additional information to be included about facility needs and solutions. Board President Cindy Goodner emphasized the importance of ongoing communication with the public regarding the referendum. The next regularly scheduled board meeting is Monday, April 8.

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, March 14, 2024 9

Winneshiek County Cattlemen Enjoy farm fun during awards presented Vesterheim’s Children’s Hour

Old farm life is the topic of the next Barnetimen Children’s Hour Tuesday, March 19, at 10 a.m., at Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School. During the program, participants will learn Norwegian farm animal names and then make farm-inspired art before enjoying a snack. Barnetimen programs are free and geared toward threeto-ﬁve-year-olds, but all ages are welcome. New programs are offered in person at the museum the third Tuesday of the month from 10 to 11 a.m., April through September. No reservations are needed, but larger groups of 10 or more are asked to contact the museum the day before the program to help with planning. For more information, contact Vesterheim Collection Manager Jennifer Kovarik at 563-382-9681 or jkovarik@vesterheim.org.

Jordan Tietz (left) and Dustin Bigler operate JD Farms and were the recipients of the Young Cattlemen Awards from the Winneshiek County Cattlemen’s Association Saturday night, March 9, in Decorah.

Scholarship recipients from the Winneshiek County Cattlemen were (front, l-r) Kayleigh Smith, Katrina Hageman, Alison Leibold, Anna Holthaus; (back) Mitchell Vagts, Jeramiah Rediske, Creed Monroe and Travis Nordheim. Joel Sloan and Taylor Sloan received one of the Friend of Cattlemen awards Saturday at the 2024 Winneshiek County Cattlemen Beef Banquet.

Recipients of the $1,000 Beef Opportunity Program grants were Tylar Wenthold (left) and Bentley Smith. Not pictured but receiving a grant was Isabella Schnitzler. (Driftless Multimdia photos by Becky Walz)

PBS Wisconsin to feature Decorah in March episode of ‘John McGivern’s Main Streets’ On Thursday, March 21, an entire episode of “John McGivern’s Main Streets” will be dedicated to Decorah. The show, a local public television program presented by PBS Wisconsin, is in its third season and focuses on travel around the Upper Midwest. The ﬁlming for the Decorah episode took place in July 2023 following nearly a year of correspondence with the crew. Local tourism expert Alyssa Ritter with Visit Decorah led the effort with support from Decorah Area Chamber and Winneshiek

County Economic Development & Tourism. The Decorah episode features anchor attractions such as Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, Seed Savers Exchange, Lawn Chair Night’s Nordic Dancer Performance, Decorah Impact Crater & Sea Scorpion Display at Luther College and more. Starting March 21, the Decorah episode may be viewed for free on PBS Wisconsin, the PBS streaming app or at www. pbs.org/show/john-mcgivernsmain-streets.

Mike Roling was honored as one of the Friend of the Cattlemen award winners at the Winneshiek County Cattlemen Beef Banquet Saturday.

Receiving the Seedstock Producer Award Saturday was the Springer family (l-r) Briana Springer, Steve Springer, Jeff Springer, Lynda Springer, Michelle Christianson and Todd Christianson.

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Coming up in varsity sports March 15 – SW/TV g/b tr at UIC Indoor (Luther), 4 p.m. March 16 – Dec g/b tr at Luther Indoor, 11 a.m. March 19 – Dec g/b tr at NEIC Indoor (Luther), 4:30 p.m. March 22 – TV g/b tr at North Fayette Valley, 4:30 p.m. March 25 – Dec b soc at Jamboree (Cedar Valley Soccer Complex), 4 p.m.; Dec g soc at Jamboree (Waterloo Memorial Stadium), 5 p.m. March 26 – SW/TV g/b tr at Sumner-Fred, 4:30 p.m.

Sports Editor: Becky Walz

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PAGE 10

THURSDAY

MARCH 14, 2024

DECORAH, SOUTH WINNESHIEK, TURKEY VALLEY

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sports@decorahnewspapers.com

Bockman earns All-State nod The Iowa Print Sports Writers Association (IPSWA) announced the 2024 boys basketball all-state teams on Tuesday. During an in-person meeting Friday, March 8, the teams were selected by approximately 40 Iowa print sports writers and basketball coaches. Decorah senior Ben Bockman was among those honored on the Class 3A First Team by the IPSWA. A Ben Bockman

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will host an open house Friday, March 22, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Fort Atkinson State Preserve located at 303 2nd Street in Fort Atkinson, to discuss upcoming repairs to several of the historic structures at the preserve. The open house will begin with a short presentation, with DNR staff on hand to answer questions. For more information, contact Detra Dettmann, Detra.Dettmann@dnr.iowa.gov; or (563) 608-4597.

Decorah High School Special Olympic Athletes (l-r): Kamryn Leuenberger, Braden Ramstad, Donnie Hrdlicka, Haley Stinson, Brandon Thomas, Wyatt Pleggenkuhle, Klaressa Miller, Jude Ryan and John Lippe. (submitted photo)

TRICK’S DAY S T. PCA E L E B R AT I O N

DIRT to start second season

Decorah Iowa Racing Team (DIRT), sponsored through the Iowa Scholastic Mountain Bike League, is going into its second year of racing. An informative meeting for riders and guardians will be held at the Decorah High School cafeteria on Saturday, March 23, at 9 a.m. Mountain biking ﬁrst aid training will be taught to riders by Steve Vanden Brink. The team is open to all sixth through 12th graders. Participants are required to provide their own riding gear including a good quality mountain bike, helmet, water bottle, safety riding glasses and submit paperwork before riding. Volunteer coaches who are experienced mountain bikers will train the team on handling skills, trail etiquette and simple bike maintenance. Along with

attending practices, members and a guardians will help with trail maintenance. Many of the practices are held at Carlson Park and the team is very excited to have Scholastic racing there once the bike-optimized trails are built. These trails will be more suitable for progression of skills. Currently, Carlson Park is raising funds for the development of these professionally-built trails. Decorah held the ﬁrst mountain bike race in Iowa 40 years ago, and DIRT has received great support from area mountain bike riders. For information on getting involved and for a complete schedule of the season’s races, please email decorahmountainbiketeam@gmail.com or Facebook message by visiting Decorah Area Mountain Bike Team.

Pictured are some of the Decorah Mountain Bike team members: Van Bassford, Oskar Swanson, Keagan Steines, Garrett Willie, Spencer Christensen, Benny Bentley and Oak Pasche. (Photo submitted)

Vikes hit the track at UD

MUSIC + GUEST SPEAKERS Decorah Middle School Special Olympics Athletes (l-r): Luke Thompson, Sky Pasche, Aiden Farley, Zoey Lollar, Johnathan Bean and Daniel Bean. (submitted photo)

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Decorah Special Olympics teams compete On Sunday, March 5, the Decorah High School and Decorah Middle School Special Olympics teams traveled to Cedar Falls to compete in the Northeast Iowa Regional Track and Field event. At this event, Decorah athletes competed in shot put, softball throw, tennis ball throw, standing long jump, sprints and walks. DHS junior Haley Stinson was selected to carry the torch on the final leg of the Opening Ceremony of the games and light the Olympic flame. Competing and placing for Decorah High School were Donnie Hrdlicka, who placed second in the long jump and fifth in the 50 meter dash; Kamryn Leuenberger, who placed first in the tennis ball throw and first in the 50 meter walker race; John Lippe, who placed first in the shot put and fourth in the 50 meter dash; and Klaressa Miller, who placed first in the 50 meter walk and first in the shot put. Also competing were Wyatt Pleggenkuhle, who placed first in the 50 meter walk and second in the shot put; Braden Ramstad, who placed first in the shot put and second in the 50 meter dash; Jude Ryan, who

placed first in the 50 meter dash and second in the shot put; Haley Stinson, who placed first in the long jump and second in 100 meter dash; and Brandon Thomas, who placed second in the shot put and fourth in the 50 meter dash. Competing and placing for Decorah Middle School include Daniel Bean, placing third in the 100 meter dash and third in the shot put; Johnathan Bean, placing first in the 100 meter dash and second in the shot put; Aiden Farley, placing first in the 50 meter dash and first in the long jump; Zoey Lollar, placing first in the 50 meter dash and second in the softball throw; and Sky Pasche, placing first in the softball throw and third in the 50 meter dash. Luke Thompson also participated representing the middle school. The Decorah Schools Special Olympics teams would like to thank their teacher, paraprofessionals, and parents for making a great day happen for them. The high school athletes would also like to thank Mike Tangen for teaching them how to throw a shot put and Gina Holthaus for her assistance in their runs and jumps.

Decorah’s Simon to be featured on PBS’ Iowa Life

Lilly Luft from Charles City, Tatum Shepherd from Schaller and Naomi Simon from Decorah will be featured in Naomi Simon an upcoming episode of Iowa PBS’s Iowa Life, a magazine-style series uncovering the diverse tapestry of Iowa’s people, cultures and stories. The episode will premiere Tuesday, March 19, at 6:30 p.m. and be rebroadcast Sunday, March 24, at 10:30 a.m. In this episode of Iowa Life, Luft, Shepherd and Simon, who are pioneers in the world of girls wrestling in Iowa, will share their passion and excitement for the sport, which was ﬁrst sanctioned by the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union in 2022. Iowa Life explores the exceptional lives of the individuals who call Iowa home. In addition to its statewide broadcast, Iowa PBS .1 is available to livestream on iowapbs.

org/watch, pbs.org/livestream, the PBS App, Local Now, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Iowa PBS programs, behindthe-scenes extras and more can be enjoyed on iowapbs. org, Facebook and YouTube.

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Tuesday, the Decorah girls’ and boys’ track teams competed at the University of Dubuque Early Bird Co-Ed Invite, coming away with third and fourth place team finishes. The girls tallied 42 points to bring home third behind Pleasant Valley and Dubuque Hempstead, while the boys garnered 49 points to finish fourth in the team standings. The girls had eight events score points including a runner-up spot for Renae Wilson in the 55-meter hurdles in 9.04 seconds. The 4x800 relay of Amelia Roe, Lillian Olson, Olivia Volkmann and Lily Sandhorst put together a time of 10:26.24 for silver as well. It was a bronze finish for Lauren Luzum in the shot put with a throw of 34 feet 5 inches. Claire Storhoff (4’6”) and Lauren Holthaus (4’2”) posted points in the high jump with fourth and eighth place finishes, as Audrey Essa claimed fourth in the 55-meter dash in 7.66 seconds. The 4x200 and 4x400 relays finished fifth respectively. It was Essa, Kelby Kerndt, Sydney Kipp and Wilson on the track in the 4x200, finishing in 1:52.90. In 4:25.58, Roe, McKenzie Riley, Sandhorst and Lillian Olson completed the 4x400 relay. Crossing the finish line in 2:42.50 to take seventh in the 800-meter run was L. Holthaus. The Viking boys scored in 10 events highlighted by the gold medal in the 4x200 relay won by Kelley Gates, Joshua Adam, Trevor Kuennen and Dakota Johnson in 1:34.08. Johnson and Gates added a runner-up finish to their days. Gates had a leap of 19 feet 9 inches in the long jump for silver while Johnson went 8.19 seconds in the 55-meter hurdles. William Hahn tossed the shotput 44 feet 4 inches to take fourth, while Thomas Hammel took 4:48.42 to circle the track in the 1600-meter run to claim fourth. The 4x800 quartet of Mitchell Stemper, Thomas Sexton, Grant Zilka and Davis Coppola brought home fifth in 8:41.59. Finishing in 3:46.74 was the 4x400 team of Brayden Hartl, Ashton Saltou, Landyn Hook and Stemper. Saltou claimed sixth individually in the long jump with a leap of 19 feet 2 inches while Adam was seventh in the 55-meter hurdles in 8.55 seconds. Concluding the scoring for the Vikes was Peyton Webb in the high jump as he cleared the bar at 5 feet 6 inches. The Vikings will be on the track again Saturday, March 16, at the Luther Indoor event at 11 a.m.

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Public meeting on historic fort

three-time NEIC honoree, B. Bockman led Class 3A in made three-pointers with 86, with a 3-pointer percentage of 48 percent. He was sixth in overall scoring in the class, with 513 total points for the season, and averaging 19.7 points per game with a ﬁeld goal percentage of 52.4 percent for the season. Class 3A All-State teams First team – Jesse Van Klasbeek, Sr., MOC-Floyd Valley; Tanner Berggren, Sr., Bondurant-Farrar; Matt Noll, Sr., Bishop-Heelan; Derek Weisskopf, Sr., Williamsburg; Jude Coibson, So., Ballard; Cole Marsh, Sr., Waverly-Shell Rock; Ben Bockman, Sr., Decorah; Navon Shabazz, So. Davenport Assumption

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