May 2, 2024 by Driftless Multimedia

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Thursday, May 2, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 18

Decorah, Iowa 52101

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Blue milk from ‘Stars Wars’ to hit shelves May the 4th By Roz Weis

Molly Brink, a Burr Oak area native and graduate of Decorah High School, has been instrumental in bringing STAR WARS™ TruMoo Blue Milk to store shelves across the country – just in time for May the 4th. The Kemps Dairy executive said she was thrilled to see so many people getting excited about the “cosmic” milk, which will be available soon in half-gallons on the shelves at Fareway and Hy-Vee in Decorah. The milk is entering stores for a limited time only. Called “TruMoo Blue Milk”, it is a low-fat, vanilla-ﬂavored milk. Brink, the daughter of John and Tammy Brink of Burr Oak, graduated from Decorah High School in 2005 and earned her degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 2008. She majored in Spanish at UNI and later earned her master’s degree in international business at St. Mary’s University in Minnesota. Brink currently resides in the Twin Cities and has two children: 8-year-old daughter Paige and 4-year-old son Ronan. She began her career in an administrative role at a commodities brokerage ﬁrm in Cedar Falls, then moved to the Twin Cities to pursue a marketing role at Target Corporation, working on their up & up®-owned brands packaging business. “Then I spent six years at Post Consumer Brands working as Associate Brand Manager on Great Grains®, then Sr. Associate Brand Manager on Malt-O-Meal® cereal portfolio,” Brink said. “I have been at Kemps/Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) for two and a half years now, working as a Brand Manager (Fluid Milk) on TruMoo® and Kemps® brands (and many more).” Brink’s current role is Brand Manager, DFA Dairy Brands for Kemps. “I work with an awesome team, and we are constantly thinking of ways we can make milk top of mind for consumers. I’m happy to see that STAR WARS™ TruMoo Blue Milk seems to be accomplishing just that,” she said.

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Brinks and other Kemps representatives had been brainstorming with Lucas ﬁlm partners on executing production plans and market plans for the milk. The milk idea came from a scene featured in “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” with Luke Skywalker drinking blue milk. The collaboration and promotion of the new product has taken Brink and her team to several sites, including the New York City Imperial March event she attended last month. The milk brand also was featured recently on a national television network segment of the late-night talk show “Late Night With Stephen Colbert” on CBS. The milk was initially introduced to Star

Blue milk

continued on page 6 Molly Brink shows off some of the new Star Wars™ TruMoo® Blue Milk. (submitted)

phone: 563-382-4221

fax: 563-382-5949

Decorah files for mediation in conference realignment request By Roz Weis The Decorah Community School District (DCSD) will seek help from the State Department of Education in an ongoing effort to join the Upper Iowa Conference (UIC). In a unanimous vote during a special board meeting Monday afternoon, DCSD Superintendent Tim Cronin was authorized to file for mediation with the Iowa Department of Education involving the District’s application to the UIC for the 2025-26 academic year. The District’s formal application was recently denied. The Vikings are currently a member of the dissolving Northeast Iowa Conference (NEIC) for the 2024-25 school year, but time is running out for the conference. Fellow NEIC members New Hampton, Waukon and Crestwood have all announced plans to leave the conference and have been accepted to the UIC in the 2025-26 school year. After Waverly-Shell Rock was voted out of the NEIC several years ago, they sought state mediation and were granted a final season (this current season) in the NEIC. That membership comes to an end in June. With a total of four schools leaving the conference, the only remaining NEIC schools are Decorah and Charles City. Charles City School Board recently filed for a similar mediation, as their request to join another conference (the North Central Conference) also was denied. “We have done our due diligence, and those requests to meet were denied unfortunately,” Board President Cindy Goodner said. “The next step is to

Conference realignment continued on page 8

Turkey Valley prom

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com

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Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers Showing some sass and pizzazz in their prom dresses are (l-r) Ivey Franzen, Ana Ventura, Megan Blong, Isabella Gruenberg, Autumn Schmitt and Emerson Lange before Saturday’s prom at Turkey Valley.

County Assessor breaks through confusion caused by recent tax report By Zach Jensen Approximately one month ago, property tax owners around Iowa received a new report from the Winneshiek County Auditor’s Ofﬁce, which were mailed by County Auditor Ben Steines, had nothing to do with the documents, which were prepared using information from the Iowa Department of Revenue. Winneshiek County Assessor Jim Alstad said each property owner’s individual tax report can be difﬁcult to read, even for someone who’s spent

the last 30 years in his profession. “It explains the current property tax dollars for the schools, county and cities, the current tax rate, the effective tax rate, proposed property tax and the proposed tax rate,” Alstad said. “House File 718 now requires the auditor to send out these letters.” The county assessor said it’s important to read each section of the report carefully, and to help taxpayers understand how to read their own reports; he used his own as an example. The ﬁrst portion of the tax report is the “School”

section - what the school in each property owner’s taxing district is proposing to spend. For example, Alstad said that according to his tax report, the school in his taxing district reported current property taxes, or revenues, totaling $10,665,332, and they’re proposing to spend $11,049,009. The tax report shows the current tax rate versus the proposed tax rate. That proposed tax rate has been in the public hearing process before it’s approved and ﬁnalized, taking place in schools around the county for the last several weeks. In each section, there’s one category that may

The 2024 Graduating Classes will be published in the Driftless Journal next month

Reserve your space in this commemorative edition by May 2

Call 563-382-4221 or email an ad rep today! Megan Warner

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CELEBRATE YOUR GRAD!

be confusing: The “Effective Tax Rate.” “The effective tax rate just means that if they would have asked for the same amount of dollars with the new amount of taxable valuation available, that’s what the new levy rate would have been,” Alstad explained. Under the “School” portion of the report is the “County” portion. Alstad said property owners in city limits usually only need to be concerned with

Tax reports

continued on page 5 Congratulations

Cong

South Winneshiek

2023!

Joshua KnutsonClass of ratulations Class of 2023

Ty Remick

Hope Stahl

Decorah

Hannah

Decorah

Congratulations

SCH NITZ LER

ULATIONS! CONGRAT u anWe d are so proud of you! We love yo oud of you! are very pr

Love you!

Love, Mom, Dad, Kaitlyn, Isabella & Brownie

ily

fam Love, your

Kiah Tweten Decorah

Sydney Hageman Decorah

Best wishes for your future!

Carlos Macario South Winneshiek

904 Short St., Deco rah, IA 563-382-5120

2 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024

Luther College President Ehrie celebrates 50 years of service Ward announces retirement On May 1, the Decorah Com-

President Jenifer K. Ward announced to the Luther College community recently her intention to retire as president at the end of June 2025. Ward became president of Luther on July 1, 2019, she will have served in the role for six years. In a message to the campus, Ward expressed her appreciation to the Luther community and her desire to maintain momentum in implementing the College’s key strategic initia-

tives. Notable among President Ward’s initiatives were deepening the attention to a holistic approach to student education and success, including collaborating with the college faculty and academic leadership to reorganize Luther’s academic curriculum, introducing an integrated student services area under the Provost and uniting academic affairs, student engagement and student success.

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munity School District honored employees who have served five, 10, 15, 20 or more years in the district. Among the guests was Orabel Ehrie, a dedicated employee who has been a valued member of the transportation department for 50 years. Ehrie started driving school buses for the district in August 1974. Her first route was hauling kindergarteners in a station wagon. Since then, she has covered the same route with minor changes due to new enrollments. Her route covers the rural areas from Glenwood to Frankville. She also shuttles the St. Benedict’s Catholic School students to and from school in the morning as well as in the evenings. She works very closely with St. Ben’s and tries to be involved in every event – from transporting them to and from Mass when needed as well as field trips they request. Some of the current district staff remember riding on Ehrie’s bus. They recall the strict rules she enforced when riding the bus – rules still in place today. She has one of the cleanest and best kept buses in the district because of these rules. She

Orabel Ehrie has been a member of the Decorah Community School District’s transportation department for 50 years. takes tremendous pride in her job and in the safety of the children she transports every day. “I rode her bus to go to my church for confirmation on Wednesday evenings,” said DHS Activities Department Manager Jacqueline Hoyme. “One day, I remember getting to the church, and she wouldn’t let us get off the bus to go to confirmation because she wanted everyone to practice an emergency evacuation drill first. We

didn’t do it fast enough the first time, so she made us do it again. She was a great bus driver and knew how to keep her buses under control and her passengers well behaved.” “Orabel always drove my fourth-grade class to all field trips during my years of teaching at St. Ben’s,” said Shannon Quandahl, Facilitator of Instructional Technology and former St. Benedict’s fourth grade teacher. “She always greeted us

with a smile and knew all students by name. We would often discuss the weather, farming and family. She is one of the kindest humans I know!” “Orabel drove me when I attended St. Ben’s,” added second grade teacher Shannon Tieskoetter. “She would pick us up at St. Ben’s and take us to our hub to find our bus to ride home. Now she drives my kids.”

Rediske named Stars Over Iowa Winner

7th & 8th Grade Orchestras

Decorah Middle School Orchestra Teacher Jennifer Larson acknowledges and celebrates the 7th and 8th grade orchestras. Larson commented, “These students embarked on the unique and challenging journey of mastering a commissioned musical piece. Despite its complexity, they collaborated tirelessly, persevering until they achieved a sense of satisfaction with the final performance. Through this endeavor, the ensemble not only conquered challenges but also strengthened their bonds as a team.”

Lily Sandhorst & Natalie Goodner

Decorah Band Teacher Matthew Cody selected juniors Natalie Goodner and Lily Sandhorst to spotlight.

Lily Sandhorst

Cody said, “To say that Lily and Natalie are hardworking is a little disingenuous. They are certainly hardworking; however, they mean so much more to the Decorah Band program than to simply consider them a hardworking cog in a wheel. Throughout their time in the program, they have demonstrated superior musicianship and do what they can to achieve group goals both as individuals and as members of a team.”

Lily is involved in cross country, track, envirothon, musical, large group/individual speech, music lisNatalie Goodner tening contest, mock trial coach, NHS, stuffed animal sleepover, citizens climate lobby, concert band and marching band. Her parents are Rachel Sandhorst and Jon Jensen. Natalie is involved in cross country, musical, track, concert band, jazz band, drumline, choir, NHS, large group/individual speech, book club, envirothon and silver cord. Her parents are Cindy and Andy Goodner

Decorah Music A Tradition of Excellence

westmusic.com

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

The 2024 Stars Over Iowa Winners for Agricultural Placement, Agribusiness, Agriscience and Agricultural Production were announced at the 96th Iowa FFA State Leadership Conference at Iowa State University on Tuesday, April 16. Jeramiah Rediske of the Decorah FFA Chapter is the 2024 Star in Agriculture Production winner. Rediske, the son of James and Amy Rediske, is in charge of a beef production operation where he has 60 head of registered and commercial cattle. He produces market and breeding stock animals both to grow his herd and make a profit. He currently has 44 breeding cows and heifers, two bulls and 14 commercial feeder calves. He has also been able to buy some of his own equipment to improve his operation, and different minerals and feeds to make his

cattle more efficient. Rediske’s future plans for this operation is to grow enough to turn it into a full-time occupation, and expand his feedlot, and potentially buy more cattle to fill it while obtaining more breeding stock and calving in more cows. In FFA his freshman year, Rediske competed at the state level in job interview and earned third place with his conduct of

the meetings team. After graduation, he will be attending Buena Vista University studying agriculture business and animal science as well as playing soccer at the collegiate level. “This award represents a significant achievement within the FFA as it reflects on the quality of Jeramiah’s supervised agricultural experience (ag workbased learning) and his FFA involvement,” said Decorah

FFA Advisor Joni Bruvold. “We couldn’t be prouder of him for this extraordinary accomplishment. His commitment to excellence in his supervised agricultural experiences and his contributions to our FFA chapter have been outstanding. We eagerly anticipate witnessing his continued growth and success, particularly in expanding his beef cattle operation.”

celebrates anniversary DCSD releases results Kinderhaus with benefit concert May 4 of facility needs survey Residents of the Decorah Community School District provided input and feedback on the proposed construction of a new school that would replace John Cline Elementary School and West Side Early Childhood Center. The survey was available April 9-23 and asked a series of questions about the district’s facility needs at the elementary level and sought feedback for the Board of Education and administration as they plan next steps in the project. “We want to thank all the community members who took the time to complete the survey and provide critical feedback as the district moves forward with the planning process,” said Superintendent Dr. Tim Cronin. “The need for a new elementary school is a subject that has been studied for more than 15 years, and these

Ribbon Cutting

Celebration!

Congratulations to J. Tupy’s! CELEBRATING

25 YEARS

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

Pictured (l-r): Superintendent Dr. Cronin, James Rediske, Jeramiah Rediske, Amy Rediske and Advisor Joni Bruvold. (submitted)

Congratulations to J. Tupy’s on their 25th business anniversary! Pictured is Joan Tupy and company with Chamber Ambassadors Chris Hicks, Joanie Rollins, Lashelle Evans, Tade Kerndt, Amanda Kupka, Ray Rinkol, Holly Allen and Joe Hammel.

responses will help inform future decisions. We will continue engaging our entire community as this process continues.” Over 76 percent of the survey’s 1,151 respondents said they would support the construction of a new elementary school, while 15.4 percent said they would not support the project, and 8.1 percent were unsure. The survey asked respondents to rank potential features that could be included with a school project. The top responses were pickleball courts, an outdoor amphitheater and outdoor basketball courts. Valuable feedback to open-ended questions was also collected from respondents, such as what they feel should be a focus of the district and Board of Education when building a school. West Side was constructed in 1939, and John Cline first welcomed students in 1964. The facilities have many pressing issues today that include outdated structural, mechanical, and electrical systems; inadequate classroom and storage space; no air conditioning and poor ventilation; asbestos located onsite; and sanitary sewer problems, among others. The Board of Education, administration, architects and engineers and committees that include community members have examined the facilities and have considered possible facility solutions for the past 16 years. The consensus is that investing funds at West Side or John Cline is not a practical, cost-effective or long-term option for DCSD. To view the complete survey report, visit https://decorah.k12. ia.us/2024/04/community-survey-report/.

Kinderhaus Preschool, Decorah’s outdoor-based and Waldorf-inspired preschool, is celebrating its 15th anniversary by hosting a benefit concert Saturday, May 4, at Impact Coffee in Decorah. Performances by “High Strung and Fretless” and “Lissie” will be featured during

the event for which tickets are required. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with music beginning at 7 p.m. For ticket information, visit the event Facebook page titled “Kinderhaus Benefit Concert – Featuring Lissie”.

Mary Christopher Park temporarily closed Decorah Parks and Recreation recently announced that Mary Christopher Park is closed until Friday, May 10. For more information, contact Decorah Parks and Recreation at 563-382-4158.

‘Get to Know Carlson Park’ event May 4 Decorah Rotary Club and the Carlson Park Trail Development Team will host a “Get to Know Carlson Park” Community Day on Saturday, May 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. The rotary club will be serving ice cream and hot dogs from the binzebo throughout the event, and individuals and families are welcome to explore Carlson Park on their own. A guided hike of Carlson Park’s two-mile original core loop will start at 1:30 p.m., from the

binzebo area, and trail development team members will be on hand to answer questions and share plans for future development at Carlson Park. Decorah Rocks members have been painting and gathering rocks for the event and participants are encouraged to look for rocks throughout the day. Rocks can be kept or hidden again. For more information, contact Brecka Putnam at brecka. putnam@gmail.com or 630957-8003.

Volunteers sought for garlic mustard removal event May 4 The public is invited to volunteer at Heritage Valley, a 1,200acre private preserve near Decorah, for “Into the Wild, out with the Mustard!” May 4. Volunteers will hand-pull garlic mustard, one of the most invasive non-native plants in Iowa, from Heritage Valley’s woodlands. Two volunteer shifts are: 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1-4:30 p.m.

A bag lunch will be provided. An RSVP is required. Work gloves, sturdy shoes or hiking boots, long pants and layers are recommended. Learn more and register at inhf.org/events or contact Senior Land Stewardship and Blufflands Director Brian Fankhauser at bfankhauser@ inhf.org or 563-382-2008.

2 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024

Luther College President Ehrie celebrates 50 years of service Ward announces retirement On May 1, the Decorah Com-

• TRIMMING • REMOVAL • STORM DAMAGE DECORAH BASED • UTILITY FULLY INSURED LINES FREE ESTIMATES • CLIMBERS dotzenrodtreeservice@gmail.com AVAILABLE 319-361-6856

Orabel Ehrie has been a member of the Decorah Community School District’s transportation department for 50 years. job and in the safety of the children she transports every day. “I rode her bus to go to my church for confirmation on Wednesday evenings,” said DHS Activities Department Manager Jacqueline Hoyme. “One day, I remember getting to the church, and she wouldn’t let us get off the bus to go to confirmation because she wanted everyone to practice an emergency evacuation drill first. We didn’t do it fast enough the first time, so she made us do it again.

She was a great bus driver and knew how to keep her buses under control and her passengers well behaved.” “Orabel always drove my fourth-grade class to all field trips during my years of teaching at St. Ben’s,” said Shannon Quandahl, Facilitator of Instructional Technology and former St. Benedict’s fourth grade teacher. “She always greeted us with a smile and knew all students by name. We would often discuss the weather, farming

and family. She is one of the kindest humans I know!” “Orabel drove me when I attended St. Ben’s,” added second grade teacher Shannon Tieskoetter. “She would pick us up at St. Ben’s and take us to our hub to find our bus to ride home. Now she drives my kids.”

Rediske named Stars Over Iowa Winner

7th & 8th Grade Orchestras

Lily Sandhorst & Natalie Goodner

Decorah Band Teacher Matthew Cody selected juniors Natalie Goodner and Lily Sandhorst to spotlight.

Lily Sandhorst

Decorah Music A Tradition of Excellence

westmusic.com

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

Ribbon Cutting

Celebration!

Congratulations to J. Tupy’s! CELEBRATING

25 YEARS

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

Pictured (l-r): Superintendent Dr. Cronin, James Rediske, Jeramiah Rediske, Amy Rediske and Advisor Joni Bruvold. (submitted)

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024 3

Incident April 17 leads to Five decades of state soil conservation funding: attempted murder charge Onward to another 50+ years The Decorah Police Department was notified Friday, April 17, at 1:19 a.m., of an assault at a residence in Decorah that resulted in significant injury to the victim. The victim was able to advise law enforcement that the suspect was still at the home, with access to firearms. A perimeter was established, and the city and county combined negotiation teams, along with an ISP negotiator, made attempts to contact the subject in the residence through multiple means, to no avail. Subsequently, additional tactical methods were utilized to assist in establishing contact with the subject in the house. According to an official release from the Decorah Police Department,

after some time, contact was established, and the subject was placed under arrest without further incident. This scene was contained, and authorities report there are no ongoing public safety concerns related to this incident. Daniel John Hammel, 27, of Decorah was arrested on the scene. He was charged with attempted murder, a Class B Felony. A Class B Felony in Iowa is punishable by up to 26 years in prison. This case remains under investigation. Anyone with additional information on this incident should contact the Decorah Police Department at 563-3823667.

Supervisors approve recycling center solar panel request By Zach Jensen The Winneshiek County Recycling Center is going solar. Recycling Supervisor Scott Logsdon presented a plan during the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors Monday meeting, in which he requested the purchase of 147 solar panels with 450-watt modules for the center. Logsdon said the $90,000 project is expected to pay for itself within approximately eight and a half years. Decorah Electric, the department’s primary electrician, will install the panels. The supervisors unanimously approved the project. Other business • Luther Biology Professor Jodi Enos-Berlage made a brief presentation on the importance of soil and invited the public to two events. The first, “Soul of Soil”, is an “immersive dance and field experiment elevating soil as the life source, the world’s largest water purifier, and agent for climate reform.” The program will be presented Thursday-Saturday, May 2-4, at 7:30 p.m., in the Jewell Theatre at Luther College Center for the Arts. Call the Luther box office for information and tickets. The second event, “Women and Soil” will be presented June 8, from 1 to 5 p.m., in the event center, at the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville. • The supervisors unanimously approved a share agreement for juvenile detention at North Iowa Juvenile Detention Services in Waterloo. • Winneshiek County Development and Tourism Executive

Director Stephanie Fromm requested a letter from the supervisors showing their support for a grant she’s pursuing through the Means and Appropriations Committee for the new Sunflower Childcare Center project. Fromm said they’re seeking a grant ranging from $100,000 to $130,000, depending on the match program, which provides a 55 percent match. The funds would be used for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) equipment. • The supervisors unanimously approved a motion to award the construction of Bridge 5, on County Road W46 over the Yellow River, to Brennan Construction Company of Lansing, which submitted the lowest bid of $711,589.89. In prior correspondence, Winneshiek County Engineer Michael Kueny said the construction would be a beam bridge, and the project has a late start date of June 10. Kueny said 100 working days is allowed in the contract, and W46 will be completely closed during most of the construction. • Jim Olson, Ashley Christianson and Larry Phillips reported to the supervisors on Burr Oak’s replacement sewer pump, which was installed April 22. The estimate for the new pump was $19,900, but the final bill was $19,141. The supervisors unanimously approved a request from Jim Olson to make monthly payments to the county in the amount of $250 per month until half the bill is paid. The next Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors meeting will be held Monday, May 6, at 9:30 a.m., at the courthouse annex.

‘May the Fourth be with You’ during free 5K run/walk Saturday In honor of “May the Fourth”, Decorah Parks and Recreation has announced that a free popup 5K run/walk will be held Saturday, May 4, with the start and finish located at the entrance to Dunning’s Spring. The course will mainly be Ice Cave Road and lower Palisades

Park, and directional signs will be up May 4 and 5. Costumes are encouraged, and costume-wearing participants are encouraged to e-mail photos to decorahrec@gmail.com or submit posts to Decorah Parks and Recreation’s Facebook page.

‘Aging Well with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities’ presentation May 4

Decorah Public Library (DPL) is hosting a special program designed to address the unique challenges faced by individuals aging with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Saturday, May 4, at 10 a.m., at the DPL Mezzanine. “Aging Well with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities” will be led by Sydney Marshman, founder of Happy at Home Consulting based in Des Moines. The one-hour educational session will explore the intricate physical, mental and social aspects of well-being in aging individuals with IDD. Attendees will gain insights into relevant health conditions, cognitive changes and effective

strategies to foster independence and improve the quality of life for these individuals. The session will cover home modifications and environmental supports, which play a crucial role in enhancing living conditions and accessibility. Participants will learn about various avenues for accessing funding and resources essential for these vital adaptations. Caregivers, professionals, and those interested in learning the nuances of aging with IDD are invited to attend this free event. For more information, contact Decorah Public Library at 563-382-3717 or visit decorahlibrary.org.

The week of April 28-May 5 is Soil Stewardship Week, which is a great time to recognize 50 years of state funding for conservation in Iowa. Fiscal Year 2023-24 marked the 50th anniversary of the state cost-share program. Iowa was the first state in the nation to establish a state-funded costshare program to implement permanent soil conservation practices. In early 1973, the Iowa General Assembly appropriated $1.5 million to the Department of Soil Conservation to reduce pollution caused by siltation in the state’s rivers and lakes, as well as by the chemicals carried with the eroded soil that negatively impacted aquatic life. Prior to that, conservation practices were funded through federal dollars or state REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) funds for wildlife practices. Winneshiek Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) received $23,000 to be spent that fiscal year ending June 30, 1974, and the District Commissioners prioritized the use of those funds for terraces. This was in line with decisions made in other counties so that almost 90 percent of the state’s cost share funds were used for terraces. Temporary soil conservation practices (contouring, strip cropping, minimum tillage) were not eligible for state costshare, but those practices were still recommended along with the permanent practices. The

Terraces were the conservation practice of choice for the initial allocation of state cost share funds. It has been a highly effective and permanent soil conservation practice in the county for over 30 years as shown in this photo from 1938. (submitted) District Commissioners also applied for and received special project funds for the Lake Meyer watershed landowners along with the initial 1973 allocation. Winneshiek SWCD has consistently been a leader in the state implementing soil and water conservation practices. There are four watershed projects in Winneshiek County – the most of any county in the state – Central Turkey River, Yellow River Headwaters, Silver Creek and the newest project in the Trout Run/Siewers Spring watershed. The watershed coordinators for these projects – Matt Frana, Sophia Campbell, Neil Schaffer and Megan Giorgetti – work one-on-one with farmers and landowners to implement practices that fit their landscape.

The number of practices has greatly increased in the past 50 years to include both structural and management practices. Cover crops are treating the most acres in the county along with no till, grassed waterways, grade stabilization structures, contour farming, prairie strips, forest stand improvement and streambank protection, as well as septic system upgrades. State cost share funds, federal conservation funding and the contributions from farmers and landowners for these practices infuse millions of dollars into the local economy, which are estimated to circulate as much as eight times over to not only bolster the economy but improve the environment and our quality of life.

Goals Moving into the next 50 years of soil and water conservation, the SWCD goals are to continue to increase adoption of conservation practices throughout the county for their multiple benefits: reducing soil erosion and runoff, improving water quality, improving soil health and productivity, improving water infiltration and filtration, reducing flooding, improving wildlife and aquatic habitat, storing carbon, and increasing pollinator species. For more information and assistance for implementation of conservation practices on your land, call 563-382-4352, ext. 3, check out the Winneshiek SWCD Facebook page, or watch for the launch of the SWCD’s new website.

Feedback sought on county Yard waste site loading days The City of Decorah will be and May 10, from 7:30 a.m. to shop construction offering several opportunities 3:30 p.m., and May 4 and May Winneshiek County Engineer Michael Kueny is seeking feedback from residents of Winneshiek County by Friday, May 3, in support of a grant to construct a new Winneshiek County Shop. “I am looking to build a new Locust Road Maintenance Shop. A new shop will reduce on-site power consumption, will be appropriately sized for our modern equipment, and will be a great benefit to our county road workers. Locust Road is one of our most important county roads for maintenance routes in Winneshiek County, so will be centrally located,” said Kueny. “The current shop would then become cold storage, which is also greatly needed.” Support Kueny is hoping to be awarded federal funding through

Community Project Funding requests to Congresswoman Ashley Hinson. To be eligible, the project will need to have letters of support submitted to: Congresswoman Ashley Hinson, U.S. House of Representatives, 1717 Longworth House Office Building. Who can submit letters of support? Any community leader in Winneshiek County, whether elected official, municipal leadership, local non-profit representative, local commercial or industrial representative, or resident of the county can submit letters of support. The more local support a project has, the better the chances of funding. For more details on the project, visit or download the letter of support from winneshiekcounty.iowa.gov. For details, call the Road Engineer’s office at 563-382-2951.

Decorah FFA member elected state FFA officer The Decorah FFA chapter announced one of its members, Creed Monroe, has been elected to serve as a 2024-25 Iowa FFA State Northeast District Vice President. This prestigious achievement exemplifies the leadership, dedication and passion for agriculture demonstrated by Monroe. As a State FFA Officer, he will assume a pivotal role in guiding the direction of the organization, advocating for agricultural education and empowering FFA members to reach their full potential. “We are thrilled to see Creed elected as a State FFA Officer,” said Joni Bruvold, Decorah FFA Advisor. “This achievement is a testament to his remarkable leadership abilities, dedication to the FFA mission, and commitment to serving others. He has been a leader within our chapter throughout his time as a FFA member by serving as the chapter president, committee and division chair, and by serving as a student coach to help members prepare for leadership and career development events. We believe that he will continue to make us proud in his new role as a state FFA officer, and he will continue to enhance his leadership and communication skills.” As a State FFA Officer, Monroe will embark on a journey of personal and professional

for free loading of compost and wood chips at the city’s yard waste disposal site on Trout Run Road. The city will have an end loader at the Yard Waste Site for two weekends: May 3

11 from 7:30 a.m. to noon. The giveaway is available to residents and non-residents of the City of Decorah. Call City Forester Sam Hogenson at 563277-5153 for more information.

Obituaries Elsa “Adele” McDowell Elsa Adele McDowell died April 9, 2024. Adele was born Feb. 17, 1927, to Elsa and John Schoeneman at their farm near Kesley, Iowa. She joined Aurene, Eldon, and Ruth Schoeneman, Adele and sister McDowell Joan followed. As a child, she developed a love of being outdoors, playing piano, reading and singing. The McDowell family lived in Waterloo, Cresco, Decorah, Des Moines and Eagle Grove, Iowa,

as well as Tacoma, Wash. She enriched the lives of her five children, their families and friends, including John and Christine Ryan McDowell, Rapid City, S.D.; Frank and Marilyn Berge McDowell, Spirit Lake, Iowa; Janis McDowell (deceased); Jane McCarver, Gulf Shores, Ala.; and Betsy McDowell and John Gussenhoven, Salem, Ore. Her husband, Frank, died in 1993. Adele is survived by her brother in-law, Wendall (Joan) Abkes of Parkersburg, seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Read her complete obituary at www.desmoinescremation. com.

Francis Stortz

Francis L. Stortz, 92, of Waukon, passed away on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Northgate Care Center in Waukon with his family by his side. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 11, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Waukon with Fr. John Moser officiating. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m., at the church. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery followed by lunch in the church hall. Creed Monroe has been named the 2024-25 Iowa FFA State Northeast District Vice President. growth, collaborating with fellow officers, advisors and stakeholders to advance the goals of the FFA organization. He will have the opportunity to engage with FFA members from diverse backgrounds, cultivate relationships with industry partners and inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders. Monroe is the third Decorah FFA member to be elected as an Iowa FFA State Officer. Other Decorah FFA members who have been elected as an Iowa FFA Officer include Aric Yaw (2023-24) and Gabe Twedt (2006-07).

Francis Stortz

Decorah Public Opinion

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

News: news@decorahnewspapers.com Advertising: megan.warner@driftlessjournal.com Kate Klimesh, Editor-in-Chief: kate.klimesh@driftlessjournal.com Phone: 563-382-4221 Subscription Rates ....................... One Year ...................... Six Months Decorah Trade Areas ..................... $57.00 ..............................$35.00 Elsewhere. ...................................... $70.00 ..............................$42.00 Single copies $1.00, mailed $3.00. Official publication for Decorah and Winneshiek County, Iowa. Periodicals postage at Decorah, Iowa. Driftless Multimedia LLC DEADLINE POLICY Decorah Public Opinion display advertising: 4 p.m. Monday. Real estate, classified, entertainment and Driftless Journal display advertising: 4 p.m. Thursday. News, submissions: 12 Noon Friday and Tuesday. Publisher reserves right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time.

THANK YOU

4 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024

804 Pole Line Rd., Decorah 563-382-0642 www.casperdecorah.com

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Teachers Turkey Valley Teachers

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DECORAH COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT TEACHERS West Side Early Childhood Center: Amanda Maki Mika Peterson

Decorah West Side

Teacher Appreciation Week, May 6-10

John Cline Elementary:

Decorah John Cline

Pictured are elementary school teachers at South Winneshiek Community School District. First row (l-r): Kim Kuhn, Gretchen Wenthold, Emily Kullen, Luann Ward, Sara Bernhard, Emily Feller and Mollie Tjossem. Second row: Samantha Christopherson, Wendy Huinker, Joyce Nesvik, Jessica Peters, Karin Ihde, Courtney Gray, Brandy Wenthold and Kathy Teff. Third row: Jenny Larson, Mary Kleve, Ed Wadsworth, Julie Nolte, Kari Straube, Connie Franzen, Lori Luzum and Sherri Lensing. Fourth row: Carter Wenthold, Alex Smith, Todd Conway, Jake Elsbernd, Connie Formanek and Jason Halverson. Not pictured: Michael Wenthold, Nathan Miller, Donna Blong and Brenna Herrmann.

Beth Baumann Sarah Brynsaas Sarah Carlson Kevin Carter Katie Casterton Ashley Darling Johanna Delaney Marcie Dodd Clarissa Einck Janet Falck Amanda Hahn John Hines Carmen Johnson Andrea Knaack Karen Kuhn Catherine Moeller Carrie Nimrod Bethany Noble Meg Numedahl Kari O’Hara Shanna Putnam-Dibble Kendall Reagan Megan Reinhardt Joyce Richert Sarah Schacherer Michaela Seeman Megan Slessor Krista Smith Jessica Tangen Shannon Tieskoetter Gabriel Twedt Stacy Williams Katherine Woodhouse

Carrie Lee Elementary:

www.dentalassociatesdecorah.com

Sara Blake Beth Bodensteiner Erika Bruess Kirsten Burrett Denise Cook Jennifer DeLaRosa Amanda Hahn John Hines Karen Klotzbach Stacy Knight Jonathon Koch Annika Krieg Steve Larson Carol Lutkenhaus Tracy Maher Savanna Mosbach Kari O’Hara Jackie Panos Sara Peterson Carolin Remmen Katherine Woodhouse Sarah Zbornik

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Shear Wonders

South Winn High School

Pictured are high school teachers at South Winneshiek Community School District. Front row (l-r): Ethan Adams, Kurt Straube, Jason Drucker and Kevin Kearney. Second row: Glenna Munuswamy, Scott Conway, Dakota Gray, Margie Holien, Laurie Emery and Kathy Teff. Third row: Jason Ohrt, Julie Kipp, Brooke Lodge, Connie Euans and Melissa Hageman. Not pictured: Kirsten Snell, Nathan Miller and LeVirgil Monroe.

Decorah Middle School

Salon & Boutique

213 E. Water St. • Decorah • 563-382-6231 Belva Wemark, Owner/Stylist Krissy Bodensteiner, Stylist

Decorah High School:

801 S. Mechanic St. - Decorah

Kelly Reagan, D.C. • 563-382-4411 Perry Numedahl, D.C. • 563-382-1085

300 East Water St., Decorah

Decorah High School

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Waukon Dental

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PLAN 1 FINANCIAL

Gregory T. Weis, LUTCF

General Securities Principal; Graduate, College for Financial Planning

Martin T. Weis, LUTCF

General Securities Representative 403 W. Water St. | 563-382-8258 | plan1financial.com

Caleb Barnes Dustin Bliven Adam Bohach Jill Boyd Rachel Breitenbach-Dirks Joni Bruvold Nicole Cody Matthew Cody Marie Conway Felecia DeJong John Dunt Erik Dutcher Joshua Fenske Hans Finanger Liz Fox

John Fretham Doreen Fullhart Kelli Gapinski Julie Giese Paige Hageman Emily Hahn Larson Tim Hayes Nicholas Hirka Molly Holkesvik Gina Holthaus Shannon Horton Amanda Huinker Danyce Jacobs Brad Johansen Carrie Kauffman Allysen Lovstuen

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Your Downtown Full Service Florist 113 W. Water St., Decorah • 563-382-1148 www.thecountrygardenflorists.com

Michelle Monreal Michelle Nesteby Cristy Nimrod Jason Rausch Mark Rhodes Joel Rollinger Addison Sadler Cara Smith Shannon Quandahl Stephanie Steines Karen Stock Michael Tangen Pat Trewin Brian Waskow Brett Wilker

RANDY’S RANDY’S Auto Parts Auto Parts Congratulations, Athletes on a 382-8488 great season! 705Montgomery Montgomery St., St., Decorah Decorah 705 563-382-8488

Gene Adams Taylor Amundson Matthew Amundson Dean Beckman Elise Bennett Dustin Bliven Casey Bouska Mackynzi Bouska Scott Boylen Jonathan Carlson Sarah Casterton Matthew Cody Amy Courtney Pamela Dambek Kelly Farley Zachary Fromm Julie Giese Emily Hahn Larson Jesse Halweg Alyssa Halweg Dana Hogan Ryan Hogan Shannon Horton Danyce Jacobs Wes Knaack Danyelle Kruse Matt Kuempel Jennifer Larson Steve Larson Jesse Lyon Sarah Nowack Katharine Oftedahl Steve Peterson Amy Pipho Carrie Reed Carolin Remmen Lee Stock Brigit Storhoff Grace Syverson Jessica Uhlenhake Lisa Witzke

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024 5

DHS Envirothon students qualify for state competition Decorah High School was well represented at the regional Envirothon competition: 45 DHS students, divided into nine teams of five, recently took the regional test to qualify for the state competition. Two teams will represent Decorah at state, including last year’s defending state champions Team DNR: Lucas Arendt, Connor Evelsizer, Gabriel Hiner, Anders Lovstuen and Aiden Nalean-Carlson. The other team to represent Decorah at state is Team Skabush: Riley Berns, Carson Bohner, Alex McGohan, Nathan Swarbrick and Henry Weis. Five of the nine teams who competed should have qualified for the state competition, but the “Decorah Rule” has been in effect since 2007 after four Decorah teams qualified to compete in the state contest in 2006. Until that time, no one school had ever qualified more than two teams in the top 15. Now only the two top finishing teams from the same school are allowed to move on to state competition. Other teams representing Decorah • 7th place Leaf Me A Loam: Phuong Doan, Reid Kuehner, Emily Myers, Mason Myers and Kellen Roffman • 8th place Blundstone Babes: Hannah Arendt, Caden Branum, Eily Hegdahl, Lily Sandhorst and Amelia Wadsworth • 12th place The Eco Warriors: Elliot Berland, Lawrence Christman, Kathleen Delphey, Beau Newhouse and Clarence Nimrod • Team Oh Scotland, My Scotland: Mara Branum, Elsa Christman, Mikayla Hiner, Nora Lesmeister and Kaylie Wemark • Team Fun Run 5: Spencer Christensen, Margaret Hahn, William Hahn, Nina Sessions and Myla Leitz • Team Squirrel Friends: Grace Blikre, Natalie Goodner, Chloe Sheffield, Ava Steine and Kamryn Steines • Team Toni: Thatcher Brown,

Members of Team DNR (l-r): Aiden Nalean-Carlson, Lucas Arendt, Anders Lovstuen, Connor Evelsizer and Gabriel Hiner. Team DNR is last year’s defending state champion. (submitted photos)

Team Skabush (l-r): Alex McGohan, Henry Weis, Nathan Swarbrick, Riley Berns and Carson Bohner. Thomas Davis, Jack Hammell, Owen Rix and Oskar Swanson The state competition was April 29 at Jasper Nature Center in Granger. The team ﬁnishing with the top score at this year’s state competition will represent Iowa at the International Envirothon contest held July 28 through Aug. 3 at Hobart and William Smith College in Geneva, N.Y. Envirothon advisor Larry Berland said, “I am so proud of all of the students that participate in our school’s Envirothon program. They have stepped forward to accept the challenge that our troubled environment presents to everyone. They have and will continue to leave a positive footprint.” The Envirothon competition, North American’s largest high school environmental education competition, is sponsored by the conservation districts of Iowa.

About Envirothon The Envirothon is designed to stimulate, reinforce and enhance interest in the environment and natural resources among high school students. Envirothon challenges students to hone critical thinking skills and create inventive solutions to the complex local and global environmental and natural resource issues facing the world today, whether in the field or in the classroom. Teams of five work together while increasing their knowledge and critical thinking skills to conduct hands-on investigations, solve real-life scenarios, and answer written questions covering five categories: aquatics, forestry, soils, wildlife and a current environmental Issue. Each team is tested of their knowledge of each of these categories at the regional level.

Tax reports the “Countywide” section, while rural property owners also need to consider the “Rural Additional” category. This portion, as well as the following “City” portion of the tax report contains the same categories– Current Property Tax, Current Tax Rate, Effective Tax Rate, Proposed Property Tax and Proposed Property Tax Rate. Alstad explained that a typical urban property owner would add the “Proposed Tax Rate” sections from “School,” “County” and “City” portions to ﬁnd their total proposed tax rate for the next ﬁscal year. Using his own property tax report, the assessor added 12.54903 from the schools’ proposed tax rate, to 7.72 from the countywide proposed tax rate and the 16.27935 from the city’s “General Non-Ag” category to come up with his total proposed tax rate. “That total is going to be multiplied by taxable value to determine the property taxes I’ll owe, if the proposed tax rates are approved,” said Alstad, “and this does not include credits or exemptions. “It’s common to hear people say they haven’t heard about credits and exemptions, but typically, they have and just forgot about them,” he continued. “This new 65+ exemption was on the news, in the paper, posted on the county’s website, and being talked about a lot. Short of calling everyone on the phone, the information was everywhere.” Alstad said the difference between a credit and an exemption

is that an exemption comes off the property’s assessed value, and a credit is based on a dollar amount multiplied by the levy rate of their taxing district. An example of an exemption is the newly created “65+” tax exemption, which means that anybody living in their house, 65 years of age or older as of the assessment year, is eligible for an exemption. This is different from the Homestead Tax Credit. “For the ﬁrst year, the 2023 assessment, it was worth a reduction in your assessed value by $3,250,” Alstad said. “In the 2024 assessment year, it’s going to be worth $6,500.” House File 718, which created the 65+ exemption, also increased the amount of the military service property tax exemption, which used to be worth $1,852 off a property’s assessed value and has since been raised up to $4,000. The other side of the report shows how a person’s property taxes are distributed to school and county. “They’re giving an example of each entity’s increase or decrease based on a $100,000 home,” he said. “So, if you have a $100,000 home, with the rollback of 46.34 percent, you’re paying taxes on $46,340. Then, you multiply that by the proposed levy rate.” Alstad said that’s how this portion of the report came up with $582 going to the school, $358 to the county and $754 for the city. The assessor said he empathizes with property tax owners trying to read their new tax re-

Law Enforcement Winneshiek Sheriff Justin Bigler, 34, of Dorchester, was arrested April 19 and transported from the Allamakee County Jail to the Winneshiek County Jail on an arrest warrant for violation of probation. Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce deputies responded to a residence on Legacy Road in Burr Oak April 23 at 8:47 p.m., where two dogs were abandoned. The owner, Andrew Makela, 44, of Decorah, was contacted. He made admissions of not being at the residence; and

he had no timeline on when he was to return. Makela was charged with simple misdemeanor abandonment of cats and dogs, and he was given a court date to appear. Following the incident, other concerned citizens assumed care of the dogs. Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce responded to an accident on Frankville Road April 28 at 4:54 a.m. Pedro Alvarado, 46, of Chicago, Ill., was reportedly westbound on Frankville Road near 1137 Frankville Road Unit 1, when he swerved to miss a deer and his vehi-

continued from front ports, because “it’s a very difﬁcult read.” But, even after all this, the “tax report” still doesn’t tell exactly what property taxes will be for the upcoming year. Alstad said all aspects of a person’s property taxes must be taken into consideration, including the assessed value, any exemptions, credits and the rollback percentage. “The rollback is calculated at the state level,” he explained, noting the current 46.34 percent. “The rollback takes all the counties in the entire state, they look at each class of property. For residential and agricultural, the taxable value cannot increase statewide, including all the counties together, by more than three percent. “Residential costs are rising so quickly that we don’t want to tax the people 20 percent more just because their values went up 20 percent,” Alstad continued. “And that’s why they implemented the rollback percentage, to only allow up to three percent growth.” This is why Alstad tells property owners “It’s not your assessed value but your taxable value that matters.” “This rollback was 54 percent last year,” he said. “Even if your assessment goes up, your taxes may go down because of the rollback and the different credits and exemptions, which aren’t in the tax report that you received.” For more information, contact Assessor Jim Alstad at 563-3825356 or Auditor Ben Steines at 563-382-5085.

cle entered the north ditch. The vehicle hit a driveway culvert and was airborne, striking an Alliant Energy power pole. Alvarado left the scene, and was later located at 425 State Drive in Postville. A chunk of the front grill was found in the roadway near the scene, and it matched the damage to Alvarado’s truck. Damages totaled $5,000 to the power pole and $8,000 to Alvarado’s 2013 Ford pickup. The driver was cited with failure to maintain control.

6 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024

Decorah Spring Citywide

GARAGE SALES 1. 302 5th St. - Women’s clothes and shoes, men’s clothes, furniture, tables, dresser, small appliances, knick-knacks.

11. 404 E Main St. - Household miscellaneous.

12. 905 Maple Ave. - Multi-family sale. Friday 8-6, Saturday 8-2. 50 cents kids’ clothes; boys 6 mo. - 6+, girls 2T-7/8. Toys, trampoline, household items, treadmill, self-propelled lawnmower, garden hose, black dresser.

2. 1209 Skyline Dr. - Everything baby! Boys’ clothes 3-24 months. Toys, jumpers, walker, activity table, bouncer, tub, playmats. Lots of baby accessories. Also miscellaneous merchandise. Cash only.

13. 402 Center St. - Friday 3-6, Saturday 8-1. New jewelry, rings all sizes, bracelets, necklaces, boy clothes 8-10, women 18-22, new shoes 7-8.5, boy 16” bike, kitchen, bathroom, miscellaneous.

3. 501 Winneshiek Ave. - Group garage sale. Friday 2-6, Saturday 8-12. House decor, antique ﬁxtures and frames, furniture and much more. 4. 910 Pine Ridge Ct. - Hammock, outdoor clothing, fabric, sewing and craft items. Small furniture, bedding. Router and other tools. Friday 8-5, Saturday 7-12.

14. 2415 Tamarack Drive Rd. - Multi-family, various sizes Lululemon, Nike, Under Armour, decor, books, toys, wall art, highchair, Cybex Sensor car seat, Grizzly coolers, Shilouette- cards accepted. Friday 8-6, Saturday 8-3.

5. 1732 East Hill Rd. (High Point East Subdivision across from the airport) - Multi-family sale. Friday 3:30-5:30, Saturday, 9-11. Fabulous ﬁnds for 50 cents (unless otherwise marked)! So many things, too numerous to list! 6. 1005 Walnut St. - 7 speed bikes, dog trailer, dog crates, pedestal table, chairs, hutch, ceiling fans, utility sink, household misc, new golf clubs Friday 11-5, Saturday 7-10:30, Sunday 10-2.

8. 1713 East Hill Rd. - Friday 7-5, Saturday 7-NOON. Home decor, men/women clothes, boots, shoes, puzzles, baseball/ football cleats, Minnesota Vikings, natural gas grill, miscellaneous.

20. 302 Mound St. - Truck tents, tool pouches, miter saw with stand, ﬁsh cleaning table, women’s clothing, shoes, small crocks, books, miscellaneous items. 21. 2719 College Dr. - Lots of kids clothing NB-3T girls, NB-12 months boys, baby items, toys, maternity, men’s and women’s clothing, home decor. Friday 8-6, Saturday 8-12.

out of City 21 Limits 32

MAP

22. 2605 Elm Drive Rd. - Clothing - newborn to 5T; women’s M to 2XL; mens, women’s shoes 9-10, complete crib that converts to toddler bed, home decor.

29. 206 Lloyd St. - Metal yard art, pots, plants, outdoor furniture, leaf blower, weed eater, women’s clothing, chairs, household miscellaneous, rugs, outdoor decor and lots more. 30. 1305 Michael Dr. - Boys’ and girls’ clothes, NB-7. Random kid items. Everything is $.50. Friday 11-6, Saturday 8-1.

33. 2713 Locust Rd. - Girl’s clothing NB-4T, boys NB-6, teen boys Under Armour & Vikings, boy’s bike, hunting clothes/ blind, boy’s rollerblades, bats, shoes. Thursday 2-7, Friday 8-6, Saturday 7-12.

DECORAH

28. Little Farmers Preschool 2902 US Hwy 52 - Multi-family sale! Baby items, cloth diapers, kids’ clothes, toys, books, furniture, bike, stroller, juniors’ clothes, household items. Most items $1.00! Friday 5:30-7:30, Saturday 8-12.

17. 2519 River Rd. - Multi-family sale. Lots of clothing; kids, adults. Coats, shoes, toys, bikes, home decor, Christmas decor, crib, stroller, miscellaneous kitchen items. Thursday 2-5, Friday 8-5, Saturday 7-12.

19. 201 4th St. - Friday 9-5, Saturday 8-2. Minnie Mouse car, clothes, shoes, board games, toys, bats, purses, much miscellaneous.

10. 1725 255th St., Freeport - Furniture, men’s shirts 2x-3x/ jeans 38-42, shoes, books, women’s M-XL, yarns, pressure cooker, dishes, tools, records, exercise bike, antiques, 16’ Lund boat/50 hp motor.

27. 1682 Sawgrass Rd. - Multi-family, lots of kids’ items; clothes, toys, jogging stroller, bike trailer. Golf clubs. Don’t miss out! Friday 8-5, Saturday 8-2.

31. 2404 Red Oak Rd. - Stainless steel cookware, small kitchen appliances, kitchen utensils, silverware, small grill, Longaberger dishes, Longaberger baskets, home décor, sewing machine, sewing desk, scrapbooking supplies, tools.

18. 807 E Main - Men’s large, women’s plus clothes, decorations, household items, lamps, etc.

9. 101 Ranchview Ct. - Friday 1-6, Saturday 9-2. Hon ﬁling cabinet, Scotts lawn spreader, garden hose & cart, golf clubs, Amish drying racks, kids clothes, sports gear, NERF guns.

7 am - 2 pm (unless otherwise marked)

15. 402 South Ave. - Books, toys, household decor, adult clothes, quilts, kids’ clothes 6-16. Thursday 4-7, Friday 9-5, Saturday 9-12.

16. 2269 Middle Calmar Rd. - Thursday 4:30-7, Friday 9-6, Saturday 7-NOON. Kids’ toys, clothing, shoes (girls’NB-5T, boys NB-8). Adult clothing & shoes (women’s sm-lg, men’s med-XL), kitchen & household items.

7. 115 Randall Dr., Unit 2 - Lawnmower, exercise bike, ﬂowerpots-all sizes, lawn and garden tools, plastic ﬁle boxes, milk crates, pictures, kitchenware.

SATURDAY, MAY 4

30 26

23. 503 Mound St. - Baby clothes 12-months, walker, bath, swing, packn-play, bouncy seat, owlet sock, kitchenware, storage drawers, serger, 2010 Chevy Equinox, weed eater, fabric. Friday 4:30-7, Saturday 8-3. 24. 408 S Mechanic - Clothing - boys, men, women, needlework, fabric, yarn. Kitchen, bedroom, bath items. Books, toys, pots, vases. Thursday - Saturday.

38 3

25. 302 E Broadway - Thursday 2-6, Friday 11-3 only. Household items, 0-2T girls, women’s, men’s name brand clothing, 4Mom’s rocker, carseat, doorway jumpers, all priced to sell.

32. 2782 US Hwy 52 - Girls clothes up to size 7/8, kids’ table & chairs, toys, Amish corner student desk, miscellaneous household. Bikes and razor scooters. Friday 8-5, Saturday 8-4.

34. 406 Jefferson St. - Multi-family garage sale, accessible through alley. Toys, home goods, small furniture, and more! Saturday 7-2.

35. 602 West Main St. - Saturday 8am-4pm. Vintage goods, women’s clothing, furniture, books, art supplies, fabric and miscellaneous treasures galore! 36. 407 Twin View Dr. (Minowa Heights) - Friday 12-5, Saturday 8-? Man, women’s bowling ball in carrying bag, retro black glass table, chairs, lamps, loft bed, attached desk, table, copier, couch, lock blades, small Junior’s clothing, men’s hats, clothing, jeans, tennis shoes, women’s clothing - Medium, jeans, much more.

37. 1313 Skyline Dr. - Saturday 6:30-3. Kids’ bikes, circular saw, crib, deluxe pack & play, dumbbell set, children’s clothes/shoes, bedding, free items, portable chicken run, fresh eggs, toys.

38. 907 Rosa Dr. - Friday 3-5, Saturday 9-4. Yard/garden items, clothes men/women size XL to 2XL, books, toys, tools, medical equipment, household, golf clubs. 39. 806 River St. (INDOOR at the Decorah Senior Center) - Saturday 8-Noon. Huge multi-family sale & BAKE SALE. Housewares, kitchenwares, TV stand, wedding decorations, ﬁshing items, books, craft supplies, stroller, car seat, toys, scooter toys, paw patrol, water table, girls clothes 2T-4T, boys clothes 8-12, board games, womens’ clothes S-XXL, womens’ shoes 9 and 11, American Eagle jeans size 16, Vigoss size 10, Michael Kors and Coach handbags, wallets, laptop bags and so much more!

NORTH ON RIVER RD.

26. 100 Randall Dr. - Dining room table, furniture, home decor, luggage and more!

HAUGEN HUMMEL

13 3

27 1

19 18

25 34

10 17

Wal-mart intersection

39 12

31 5

E HILL

RD.

IV E DR N LL A A

16 out of City Limits

Citywide Garage Sales Sponsored by Driftless Multimedia Blue milk continued from front Wars fans in Disney amusement parks, but is now available in major markets. “This has been an amazing project to work on from start to ﬁnish.,” Brink said. “I feel humbled and privileged to have been raised on a Northeast Iowa beef farm and proud through my current responsibilities to support our DFA dairy farmer-owners through proj-

ects such as this Star Wars™ TruMoo® Blue Milk product launch. I know how much work and dedication our local farm families put into providing food on their family’s table, and this motivates me to provide the same dedication in my work as a Brand Manager, where we focus on bringing fun and exciting marketing campaigns.”

EAST RIDGE RD

to Wal-mart intersection

2 37

FREEPORT AREA

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024 7

MULTI-FAMILY

Sale!!

Saturday, May 4 8-Noon

# on the! map

Indoors!

Rain or Shine!

Decorah Senior Center

Garage Sale

Public Notices

Garage Sale: 505 River St, Friday May 3rd 3-6, Saturday May 4th 7:30-2. Men & women's clothes, dishes, Nascar, books, knickknacks and much more. 18-1-P-pd-2 Garage Sale: 310 1st Street Decorah Thursday 2-6, Friday 8-6, Saturday 8-12. Men’s and women’s clothing, hunting clothes, baby clothes, baby swing, home décor, miller wire feed welder, Lincoln arc welder, 3 antique sausages presses, TV's, microwave, dresser, ﬁshing poles, and other misc. items. 18-1-P-X-2

806 River Street, Decorah

Housewares, kitchenwares, TV stand, wedding decorations, fishing items, stroller, car seat, kids toys, scooter toys, paw patrol, water table, girls clothes 2T-4T, boys clothes 8-12, board games, womens clothes XL-XXL, womens shoes 9 and 11, American Eagle jeans size 16, Vigoss size 10, Michael Kors and Coach handbags, Proceeds will wallets, laptop r go to the Senio bags, and so Center much more!

Bake Sale!!

Help Wanted

Help us clear out some stuff!

Multi-Family

Garage FULL TIME Sale POSITIONS

$1,000 SIGNING BONUS #5

on the map!

1732 East Hill Road, Decorah Enjoy andwest looking (High working Point Eastoutside Subdivision of for a change? provide on the Decorah acrossWe from the airport) jobHours: training! Class AMay or B3,CDL Friday, desirable. No CDL, no problem, we from 3:30-5:30 p.m. and will help you get one.

Saturday, May 4, from 9-11 a.m. Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953

The City of Decorah Wastewater Treatment Plant is currently accepting applications for

Seasonal Laborer

This is a temporary (seasonal) position during the 2024 summer season. Duties include: mowing, painting, and assisting with equipment maintenance. Valid driver’s license required. Position subject to background check and MVR check. Applications and job description are available at the Decorah City Hall or www.decorahia.org, Return applications to PO Box 138, Decorah or mohara@ decorah.iowa.gov Applications accepted until positions are filled. EEO/AA Employer, M/F disabled and Veteran. 18-4-PJ-12

Fabulous Finds for 50¢ www.olsonexplosives.com (unless otherwise marked)!

info@olsonexp.com The City of Decorah Street Department is currently So many things, Equal Opportunity Employer accepting applications for a 11-tf-PJ-12

tooSeasonal numerous to list! Street Department Worker

These are temporary (seasonal) positions during the 2024 summer season. Knowledge of equipment operation/ maintenance, tree maintenance, and any other knowledge required in the respective job description preferred. Valid driver’s license required. Position subject to background check and MVR check.

$1,000 SIGNING BONUS

MECHANICS

Applications and job description are available at the Decorah Street Department Office, Seeking applicants for www.decorahia.org, Fullcalling Time Mechanic position. or by 563-382-2157. Decorah, IAaccepted • 563-382-2953 Applications until www.olsonexplosives.com positions are filled. info@olsonexp.com EEO/AA Employer, M/F disabled and Veteran. Equal Opportunity Employer 11-tf-PJ-12

18-4-PJ-12

The City of Decorah Wastewater Treatment Plant is currently accepting applications for

Seasonal Laborer Shooting Star Native Seeds This isisaseeking temporary a (seasonal) position during the 2024 summer Seed Plant & mowing, season. Duties include: painting, andSpecialist assisting with Production equipment maintenance. Responsibilities include Valid driver’s license required. cleaning processing all Position and subject to background nativecheck grassand and wildflower MVR check. seed, as well as assisting with Applications and job description field maintenance and are harvesting. available at Full-time, the Decorah City Hall or www.decorahia.org, year-round with overtime Return applications to PO Box available. Position includes 138,labor Decorah or mohara@ physical & outdoor work. decorah.iowa.gov 17-6-JP-12

Job description & until Applications accepted positions are filled. at application available

shootingstarnativeseed.com EEO/AA Employer, M/F disabled and Veteran. or at

Shooting Star Native Seeds, 20740 Co. Rd. 33, Spring Grove, MN 18-4-PJ-12

The City of Decorah Street Department is currently accepting applications for a

Seasonal Street Department Worker

This is a temporary (seasonal) position during the 2024 summer season. Knowledge of equipment operation/ maintenance, tree maintenance, and any other knowledge required in the respective job description preferred. Valid driver’s license required. Position subject to background check and MVR check. Applications and job description are available at the Decorah Street Department Office, www.decorahia.org, or by calling 563-382-2157. Applications accepted until positions are filled. EEO/AA Employer, M/F disabled and Veteran. 18-4-PJ-12

Decorah Community Schools for the 2024-2025 School Year:

Online Classroom Supervisor Decorah High School

POSITION OVERVIEW Supervise students participating in online learning through E2020 at Decorah High School. This is a paraprofessional position.

QUALIFICATIONS, CERTIFICATION & EXPERIENCE • Punctuality and attendance • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work cooperatively with students, parents, and staff • Project a positive image as an educator in the school and the community • Promotes a positive image of Decorah Community Schools • Respect differing points of view • Respect for diverse viewpoints and acceptance of different racial, ethnic, cultural, gender, special needs, and religious groups. • Discretion in handling confidential information and situations • Actively supports expectations of student behavior in the classroom • Demonstrates a positive attitude and manages stress in a constructive manner • Appropriate use of humor

PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES • Enroll students in online courses needed for graduation • Regular tracking and communication of student progress to students, parents, and office staff, ensuring transparency and continual support. • Supervises and assists students in completing assignments in their online courses promptly • Daily interaction with students to encourage and support their academic success and personal growth. • Contributes and participates positively in building and district professional growth opportunities • Works collegially to select and implement building and district goals • Remains informed on building and district policies and works cooperatively toward their implementation • Meets responsibilities beyond the school day related to school functions • Maintains a professional appearance appropriate to job responsibilities

HIRING SPECIFICATIONS Required: 1. Demonstrate effectiveness in oral and written communications. 2. Leadership, organization, problem-solving, conflict resolution, human relations, assessment, and evaluation skills. Desired: 1. Bachelor’s degree; Current lowa teaching license 2. Knowledge of curriculum and effective online teaching methods. 3. Previous experience in teaching and supervising students in online learning environments.

18-2-JP-12

Letter of interest must be submitted to Principal Brad Hurst, 100 Claiborne Drive, Decorah, IA 52101, by end of the day on May 3, 2024, or until the position is filled as provided for in the Agreement between the Decorah Community School District and the Decorah Education Association 2023-2024. The Decorah Community School District is an EEO/AA employer.

Public Notices IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Arlin T. Branhagen DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016280 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, OF APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Arlin T. Branhagen, Deceased, who died on or about February 25, 2024: You are hereby notified that on March 7, 2024, the Last Will and Testament Arlin T. Branhagen, deceased, bearing date of November 3, 2022, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Darrel Branhagen was appointed Personal Representative(s) of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred. Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred. Date this date: 3-7-24 Personal Representative(s) of the Estate: Darrel Branhagen 1796 Lincoln Highway Road Decorah, IA 52101 LARSON LAW OFFICE By: Dennis G. Larson (IA. AT0004530) (MN 00060501) 312 W. Main St. Decorah, IA 52101 563-382-8449 / 5936 Attorney for Darrel Branhagen, Personal Representative(s) Date of second publication: May 2, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 25 & May 2, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY ELIZABETH JONES, DECEASED. PROBATE NO. ESPR 016290 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Mary Elizabeth Jones, Deceased, who died on or about November 7, 2023: You are hereby notified that on April 22, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Mary Elizabeth Jones, deceased, bearing date of November 28, 2006, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Timothy M. Jones was appointed Executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred. Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred. Dated April 22, 2024. Timothy M. Jones, Executor of Estate 245 Pendleton Ave. Palm Beach, FL 33480 Andrew P. Nelson, ICIS#: AT0005669 Attorney for Executor Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson 101 ½ E. Water Street P.O. Box 126 Decorah, IA 52101 Date of second publication: May 9, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion May 2 & 9, 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE PAUL N. JORDAHL AND JENINE E. JORDAHL TRUST NOTICE OF TRUST To all persons regarding Jenine E. Jordahl, deceased, who died on or about April 3, 2024: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that Decorah Bank & Trust Company is the Trustee of the Paul N. Jordahl and Jenine E. Jordahl Trust dated January 17, 1997, and amended May 13, 2010. ...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 18th day of April, 2024. PAUL N. JORDAHL AND JENINE E. JORDAHL TRUST dated 1/17/1997 and amended 5/13/2010 Decorah Bank & Trust Company, Trustee 202 E. Water, Decorah, IA 52101 ATTORNEY FOR TRUST: Jana M. Evelsizer Olson 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 jana.olson@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: May 2, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 25 & May 2, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Janelle F. Pavlovec DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016279 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, OF APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Janelle F. Pavlovec (a/k/a Janelle Pavlovec), Deceased, who died on or about February 9, 2024: You are hereby notified that on February 29, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Janelle F. Pavlovec, deceased, bearing date of January 19, 2024, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Jason Pavlovec was appointed Personal Representative(s) of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred. Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred. Date this date: 2-29-24 Personal Representative(s) of the Estate: Jason Pavlovec 2043 Grandview Road Decorah, IA 52101 LARSON LAW OFFICE By: Dennis G. Larson (IA. AT0004530) (MN 00060501) 312 W. Main St. Decorah, IA 52101 563-382-8449 / 5936 Attorney for Jason Pavlovec, Personal Representative(s) Date of second publication: May 2, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 25 & May 2, 2024 Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held at Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation (NEICAC) in the Conference Room at 305 Montgomery, Decorah, Iowa at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 6, 2024. The purpose of this hearing is to discuss applications from NEICAC to the Iowa Department of Transportation for financial assistance for fiscal year 2025 as follows: NEICAC will request state transit assistance and federal transit assistance to support operations amounting to approximately $465,233 and $624,956 respectively. NEICAC will request approval to increase the general fare box rate to $3.00 per trip for scheduled in-town services. NEICAC will request the following amounts of federal transit assistance to support capital equipment purchases. If approved, these funds will be matched with local dollars for buses on an 85% federal / 15% local basis, determined by the specific procurement. FEDERAL SHARE ...................$620,000 LOCAL SHARE ........................$109,430 FTA – 5339: 4 - LD ADA Buses – 158” WB (replacements) These projects will not have a significant detrimental environmental effect on the area, and no persons or businesses will be displaced by these activities. The projects are in conformance with the statewide Transit Improvement Program. Any interested person or agency is invited to attend this hearing and to speak for or against this application for funding. Written comments will be accepted at 305 Montgomery, Decorah, IA 52101 through the date and time of the hearing specified above. For additional information, you may call Lori R. Egan, Transportation Director, at (563) 3828436 ext. 120 during business hours. All NEICAC Public Hearings are open to all individuals regardless of disability. Any person with a disability requiring reasonable accommodation(s) to participate in this Public Hearing should contact the NEICAC office at (563) 382-8436 at least two days prior to the hearing. Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion May 2, 2024 RIDGEWAY CITY COUNCIL MINUTES April 23, 2024 The Ridgeway City Council met in special session April 23, 2024, at the Ridgeway Community Center, at 5:45 p.m. with Mayor Schnur calling the meeting to order. Council persons present were: Linderbaum, Novotny, Engelhardt, Schnur, and Hauber. Absent: None. Linderbaum made a Motion to approve the consent agenda, minutes and claims of two separate meetings with one being at 5:45 p.m. and the second meeting at 6:20 p.m. on April 2, 2024, seconded by Engelhardt. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. This being the date and time for a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 20242025 City Budget, the public hearing was called to order by Mayor Schnur. A discussion was held. There were no written or oral objectors or public comments. The discussion was closed. The Mayor declared the public hearing closed. Resolution No. 04-23-2024-1, a Resolution Approving the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 City Budget was read aloud. A Motion to approve and adopt Resolution 04-23-20241, was made by Engelhardt, seconded by Schnur. A Roll call vote was taken: Linderbaum-yes, Novotny-yes, Engelhardt-yes, and Schnur-yes. Motion carried. A Motion was made by Engelhardt, seconded by Novotny to set the date for a public hearing on the FY 2023-2024 Amended City Budget for May 15, 2024, at 5:45 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center, 690 County Street, Ridgeway, Iowa. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. A Motion was made by Schnur, seconded by Engelhardt to raise the community center damage deposit fee to $350.00. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. A Motion was made by Engelhardt, seconded by Linderbaum to pay the bill from All Flags in the amount of $121.56 for new flags for the Vet Memorial out of the City Vet Memorial Bank Account. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. A Motion was made by Engelhardt, seconded by Novotny to approve the fund accounting journal entry from local option for positive fund balance. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. Last fall wood chips were discussed and were to be considered again in the Spring. Wood chips were discussed. No action was taken. Council member Hauber arrived. A Motion was made by Schnur, seconded by Linderbaum to authorize the City Attorney to prepare an Ordinance for stormwater utility fees with residential being $40.00 per lot and commercial being $50.00 per lot. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. The next City Council meeting will be May 15, 2024, at 5:45 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center. Novotny made a Motion to adjourn, seconded by Hauber. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned. Sharla Berns City Clerk THERE IS INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR THE PUBLIC ON CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT. City of Ridgeway, PWSID #9680085, consumer Awareness/ public Right to Know 1996 Safe Drinking

Water Act. Any consumer wanting to know information on sampling results of water, contact Dan Pitz at the City Maintenance Building, 705 County St., Box 42, Ridgeway, IA 52165, or call 563-737-2457-shop, 563379-0712-cell. CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT LANGUAGE As the agency responsible for conducting drinking water programs in the State of Iowa, IDNR must provide each public water supply with language to be included in their Consumer Confidence Report regarding source water protection. The following language, at a minimum, must be included in each Consumer Confidence Report you produce from now on: The Ridgeway water supply obtains a portion of its water from the Ordovician aquifer. The Ordovician aquifer was determined to be susceptible to contamination because the characteristics of the aquifer and overlying materials allow contaminants to move through the aquifer fairly quickly. The Ridgeway Ordovician well will be somewhat susceptible to activities such as permitted pesticide applicators, pesticide manufacturers, leaking underground storage tanks, and risk management plan sites. A detailed evaluation of your source water was completed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and is available from Dan Pitz at the City Maintenance Building, 705 County St, Box 42, Ridgeway, IA 52165 or call 563-737-2457shop, or 563-379-0712-cell. Contact Information: For questions regarding this information, please contact Dan Pitz at: 563-737-2457shop, 563-379-0712-cell during the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Decisions regarding the water system are made at the City council meetings held on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:45 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center, 690 County Street, Ridgeway, Iowa, and are open to the public. WARRANTS FOR CITY OF RIDGEWAY – April 23, 2024 Anderson Law Firm, Legal fees 11/13/23/-1/16/24 .......... $750.00 Airgas, Maintenance-cylinders ........... $47.00 All Flags, Flags-com.center .............. $149.51 Bobbi Jo O’Donnell.Com, Cen. Refund .................................... $200.00 Carolan’s Ag & Repair, Snowplow repair .......................... $1,391.00 Driftless Multimedia, Publishing ...... $197.50 Engen Express, Shop fuel .................$161.55 Fehr Graham, Wastewater Improvement Project.................... $7,417.50 Hovden Oil, Shop supplies ................. $42.61 Land Stewardship, Com. Center deposit........................ $250.00 Mabel Telephone, Shop $113.82, Office $104.59, Hall $35.40............ $253.81 Microbac Laboratories, Lab tests ........$17.50 Ruppert, Inc., Shop supplies ...............$20.57 Shimek Sanitation, Garbage...........$2,327.95 Treasurer – State of Iowa, Sales tax .. $396.74 Treasurer-State of Iowa, Quarterly withholding tax ............ $1,100.16 USA Bluebook, Shop supplies ..........$136.26 Winneshiek County Extension, Lincoln Leaders - Easter ................$298.47 Expenditure Accounts Summary to date: General Fund.................................. $6,209.40 Community Center ............................ $911.08 Cemetery ........................................... $100.00 Road Use ........................................ $3,541.01 Water Fund .....................................$1,002.00 Sewer Fund .................................... $8,700.85 Revenue Accounts Summary to date: General Fund................................ $44,858.52 Community Center .........................$1,010.00 Road Use Tax ................................. $2,175.05 Local Option Sales Tax ................................$ Water Fund .....................................$3,807.48 Sewer Fund .................................... $6,509.83 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion May 2, 2024 OFFICIAL NOTICE BEFORE THE UTILITIES BOARD OF THE STATE OF IOWA TO THE CITIZENS OF WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IOWA: Notice is given that Dairyland Power Cooperative, La Crosse, Wisconsin, pursuant to Iowa Code chapter 478, has filed a petition with the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) for extension of franchise to maintain and operate existing electric transmission lines setting forth the following as the maximum voltages, starting points, routes, and termini of the existing lines: EXHIBIT A 69,000V Nominal Voltage (72,500V Maximum Voltage) Electric Transmission Line Winneshiek County, Iowa The North endpoint of this North line segment is an existing Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage electrical transmission line, located approximately 0.25 mile East of the NW corner of Section 8, T100N, R9W, of the 5th P.M., on the North line of Winneshiek County, Iowa, at a point on the Iowa/Minnesota State Line; the North terminus of this line is an existing Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage Harmony Electrical Distribution Substation, located in the SE¼NE¼, Section 14, T101N, R10W, Fillmore County, Minnesota; the South endpoint of this North line segment is an existing Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage electrical transmission line, located approximately 0.02 mile South and 0.01 mile West of the NE corner of Section 24, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; and the South terminus of this line is an existing ITC Midwest LLC (ITC), Decorah Electrical Transmission Substation, located in the SE¼-SW¼ and the SW¼-SE¼, Section 15, T98N, R8W, Winneshiek County, Iowa, within the city limits of Decorah, Iowa. The North endpoint of this South line segment is an existing Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage electrical transmission line, located approximately 0.1 mile South of the NW corner of Section 19, T98N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; the North terminus of this line is an existing ITC Midwest LLC (ITC), Decorah Electrical Transmission Substation, located in the SE¼-SW¼ and the SW¼-SE¼, Section 15, T98N, R8W, Winneshiek County, Iowa, within the city limits of Decorah, Iowa; and the South endpoint/terminus of this South line segment is an existing MiEnergy Cooperative 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage Nordness Electrical Distribution Substation, located in the NE¼-SE¼, Section 11, T97N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa. North Line Segment Beginning at a point being approximately 0.25 mile East of the NW corner of Section 8, T100N, R9W, of the 5th P.M., on the North line of Winneshiek County, Iowa, at a point on the Iowa/Minnesota State Line; thence South, on private right of way in the NW¼ of said Section 8, a distance of approximately 0.45 mile, to a point approximately 0.45 mile South of and 0.25 mile East of the NW corner of said Section 8; thence East, on private right of way along the east-west centerline in Sections 8, 9 and 10, T100N, R9W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (County Highway W20) and (285th Avenue), a distance of approximately 2.23 miles, to a point approximately 0.50 mile North of and 0.50 mile East of the SW corner of said Section 10; thence South, on private right of way along the north-south centerline in Sections 10 and 15, T100N, R9W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (County Highway A14), a distance of approximately 1.00 mile, to a point approximately 0.50 mile North of and 0.50 mile East of the SW corner of said Section 15; thence East, on private right of way along the east-west centerline in Sections 15, 14 and 13, T100N, R9W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, and the east-west

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centerline in Section 18, T100N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (U.S. Highway 52), 228th Avenue a distance of approximately 3.29 miles, to a point approximately 0.50 mile North of and 0.25 mile West of the SE corner of said Section 18; thence Southeasterly, on private right of way in the SE¼ of Section 18, T100N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (Silent Brook Road), a distance of approximately 0.57 mile, to a point approximately 0.01 mile South of the NE corner of Section 19, T100N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; thence South, on private right of way along the east line of Sections 19 and 30, T100N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 1.50 miles, crossing public road 360th St., to a point approximately 0.50 mile South of the NE corner of said Section 30; thence East, on private right of way along the east-west centerline in Sections 29, 28 and 27, T100N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (218th Avenue), (County Highway W34/North Winn Road) and (198th Avenue), a distance of approximately 2.57 miles, to a point approximately 0.50 mile North of and 0.57 mile East of the SW corner of said Section 27; thence Southeasterly, on private right of way in the SE¼ of Section 27, and in the NE¼, Section 34, T100N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 0.84 mile, to a point approximately 0.25 mile South of the NE corner of said Section 34; thence South, on private right of way along the East line of Section 34, T100N, R8W, and the East line of Section 3, T99N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (345th Street), a distance of approximately 0.75 mile, to a point approximately 0.02 mile South of the SE corner of said Section 34; thence Southeasterly, on private right of way in the NW¼ and the E½ of Section 2, the SW¼ of Section 1, and the N½ of Section 12, T99N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public roads (Middle Hesper Road) and (337th Street), a distance of approximately 2.06 miles, to a point approximately 0.17 mile South of and 0.30 mile West of the NE corner of said Section 12; thence Southerly, on private right of way in the E½ of Section 12, the NE¼ of Section 13, T99N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public roads (325th Street) and (County Highway W38/Locust Road), a distance of approximately 1.36 miles, to a point approximately 0.50 mile North of the SE corner of said Section 13; thence South on private right of way along the East line of Sections 13, 24, 25 and 36, T99N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public roads (Middle Sattre Road) and (Canoe Ridge Road), a distance of approximately 3.50 miles, to a point approximately at the SE corner of said Section 36; thence continue South on private right of way in the NE¼ of Section 1, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 0.45 mile, to a point approximately 0.45 mile South of and 0.32 mile West of the NE corner of said Section 1; thence Southeasterly on private right of way in the E½ of Section 1, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 0.63 mile, to approximately the SE corner of said Section 1; thence South on private right of way along the West line of Sections 7 and 18, T98N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (County Road A6W/River Road), a distance of approximately 1.98 miles, to a point approximately 0.02 mile North of the SE corner of Section 13, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; thence Southwesterly on private right of way in the SE¼ of Section 13 and the NE¼ of Section 24, T98N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 0.04 mile, to a point approximately 0.02 mile South of and 0.01 mile West of the NE corner of said Section 24 and the South endpoint of the North segment. South Line Segment Beginning at a point being approximately 0.1 mile South of the NW corner of Section 19, T98N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa; thence South, on private right of way along the West line of said Section 19, a distance of approximately 0.08 mile, to a point approximately 0.18 mile South of the NW corner of said Section 19; thence Southeasterly on private right of way in the W½ of Section 19, T98N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 0.86 mile, to a point approximately 0.13 mile North of and 0.52 mile East of the SW corner of said Section 19, crossing public road (County Road A52/Old Stage Road); thence South, on private right of way along the north-south centerline in Section 19, T98N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 0.13 mile, to a point approximately 0.50 mile East of the SW corner of said Section 19; thence continue South, on private right of way along the north-south centerline in Sections 30, T98N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, along the West margin of a public road (Oakhill Road), crossing public roads (240th Street) and (Tanglewood Road), a distance of approximately 0.90 mile, to a point approximately 0.10 mile North of and 0.50 mile East of the SW corner of said Section 30; thence continue South, on private right of way along the north-south centerline in Sections 30, and 31, T98N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public roads (Oil Well Road) and (State Highway 9), a distance of approximately 1.10 miles, to a point approximately 0.50 mile East of and 0.01 mile South of the SW corner of said Section 31; thence West, on private right of way along the north line of Section 6, T97N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (Valdres Road), a distance of approximately 0.07 mile, to a point approximately 0.45 mile East of and 0.01 mile South of the NW corner of said Section 6; thence continue West, on private right of way along the north line of Section 6, T97N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, along the South margin of a public road (Valdres Road), a distance of approximately 0.45 mile, to a point at approximately the NW corner of said Section 6; thence South, on private right of way near and along the west line of Sections 6 and 7, T97N, R7W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, a distance of approximately 1.42 miles, to a point approximately 0.44 mile South of and 0.01 mile West of the NW corner of said Section 7; thence Southwest and West, on private right of way near and along the eastwest centerline of Sections 12 and 11, T97N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, crossing public road (County Highway W42), a distance of approximately 1.05 miles to a point approximately 0.48 mile North of and 0.02 mile West of the SE corner of said Section 11 to the South endpoint of the South segment and the South terminus of this line at a connection point in an existing MiEnergy Cooperative 69,000V nominal voltage, 72,500V maximum voltage Nordness Electrical Distribution Substation, located in the NE¼-SE¼, Section 11, T97N, R8W, of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa. The total distance of this 69,000V nominal voltage line is approximately 29.28 miles. A map showing the route of the existing electric lines may be obtained at no cost by calling (608) 788-4000 or by writing to Dairyland Power Cooperative; Attn: Real Estate and Right of Way Department; 3200 East Avenue South; P.O. Box 817; La Crosse, WI 54602-0817. Orders issued and documents filed in this docket (Docket No. E-21394) may be viewed by searching under the docket number in the IUB’s electronic filing system (EFS) at http:// efs.iowa.gov. Objections to the granting of the franchise may be filed electronically using EFS or filed in writing with the IUB no later than 20 days after the date of the second publication of this notice. Instructions for submitting an electronic filing can be found in EFS; written objections must be mailed to the Iowa Utilities Board, 1375 East Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50319. The date of the first publication is May 2, 2024. The date of the second publication is May 9, 2024. IOWA UTILITIES BOARD BY: Jon Tack General Counsel Dated at Des Moines, Iowa, this 26th day of April, 2024. Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion May 2 & 9, 2024

Legal publications must be received by Monday at 4:00 p.m. to be published in that week’s newspaper.

563-382-4221

8 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024

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Public Notices

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - AMENDMENT OF CURRENT BUDGET City of RIDGEWAY Fiscal Year July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024 The City of RIDGEWAY will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of amending the current budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 Meeting Date/Time: 5/15/2024 05:45 PM Contact: Sharla Berns Phone: (563) 379-0964 Meeting Location: Ridgeway Community Center, 690 County Street, Ridgeway, IA 52165 There will be no increase in taxes. Any residents or taxpayers will be heard for or against the proposed amendment at the time and place specified above. A detailed statement of: additional receipts, cash balances on hand at the close of the preceding fiscal year, and proposed disbursements, both past and anticipated, will be available at the hearing. Budget amendments are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult https://dom.iowa.gov/local-gov-appeals. Total Budget Current Total Budget After REVENUES & OTHER FINANCING SOURCES as Certified Amendment Current Amendment or Last Amended Taxes Levied on Property Less: Uncollected Delinquent Taxes - Levy Year Net Current Property Tax Delinquent Property Tax Revenue TIF Revenues Other City Taxes Licenses & Permits Use of Money & Property Intergovernmental Charges for Service Special Assessments Miscellaneous Other Financing Sources

Transfers In Total Revenues & Other Sources EXPENDITURES & OTHER FINANCING USES Public Safety Public Works Health and Social Services Culture and Recreation Community and Economic Development General Government Debt Service Capital Projects Total Government Activities Expenditures Business Type/Enterprise

Total Gov Activities & Business Expenditures Transfers Out Total Expenditures/Transfers Out Excess Revenues & Other Sources Over (Under) Expenditures/Transfers Out Beginning Fund Balance July 1, 2023

1 2 3 4 5 6

145,142 0 145,142 0 0 39,205

14 15

0 376,736

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

0 0 0 0 0 0

145,142 0 145,142 0 0 39,205

1,000 20,000 41,000 130,389 0 0 0

0 0 64,567 43,600 0 12,000 1,139,000

1,000 20,000 105,567 173,989 0 12,000 1,139,000

6,100 115,789

12,000 3,580

18,100 119,369

0 1,259,167

0 1,635,903

0 18,010 2,200 86,300 22,960 0 251,359 109,000

0 11,420 0 20,530 0 1,121,865 1,169,395 5,125

0 29,430 2,200 106,830 22,960 1,121,865 1,420,754 114,125

16,377

84,647

101,024

174,064

26 27 28

360,359 0 360,359

1,174,520 0 1,174,520

1,534,879 0 1,534,879

Ending Fund Balance June 30, 2024 31 190,441 84,647 275,088 Explanation of Changes: Applying for Grant for Ridgeway Fire Department and then paying it out to them. Inflation of costs for supplies and repairs. Expenses for and Loan and Grant Revenues for Wastewater Improvement project.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • May 2, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - AMENDMENT OF CURRENT BUDGET DECORAH School District Fiscal Year July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024 The DECORAH School District will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of amending the current budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 Meeting Date/Time: 5/13/2024 05:30 PM Contact: Cathy Dietzenbach Phone: (563) 382-4208 ext: 1504 Meeting Location: Central Administrative Office, 1732 Old Stage Road, Decorah, IA There will be no increase in taxes. Any residents or taxpayers will be heard for or against the proposed amendment at the time and place specified above. A detailed statement of: additional receipts, cash balances on hand at the close of the preceding fiscal year, and proposed disbursements, both past and anticipated, will be available at the hearing. Budget amendments are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult https://dom.iowa.gov/local-gov-appeals. Total Budget Total Budget After Amendment EXPENDITURES as Certified Current Reason Increase or Last Amended Amendment Instruction 16,015,670 984,330 17,000,000 Increased positions, salary and benefits 04/29/2024 03:48 PM Page 1 of 1 Total Support Services 9,468,064 0 9,468,064 Noninstructional Programs Total Other Expenditures Total

1,166,990 3,916,577 30,567,301

0 1,164,850 2,149,180

1,166,990 5,081,427 Heivly property purchased 32,716,481

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • May 2, 2024 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - AMENDMENT OF CURRENT BUDGET City of SPILLVILLE Fiscal Year July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024 The City of SPILLVILLE will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of amending the current budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 Meeting Date/Time: 5/20/2024 06:00 PM Contact: Nikki Wagner Phone: (563) 562-3425 Meeting Location: Spillville City Hall Meeting Room 438 South Main Street There will be no increase in taxes. Any residents or taxpayers will be heard for or against the proposed amendment at the time and place specified above. A detailed statement of: additional receipts, cash balances on hand at the close of the preceding fiscal year, and proposed disbursements, both past and anticipated, will be available at the hearing. Budget amendments are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult https://dom.iowa.gov/local-gov-appeals. REVENUES & OTHER FINANCING SOURCES Taxes Levied on Property 1 Less: Uncollected Delinquent Taxes - Levy Year 2 Net Current Property Tax 3 Delinquent Property Tax Revenue 4 TIF Revenues 5 Other City Taxes 6 Licenses & Permits 7 Use of Money & Property 8 Intergovernmental 9 Charges for Service 10 Special Assessments 11 Miscellaneous 12 Other Financing Sources 13 Transfers In 14 Total Revenues & Other Sources 15 EXPENDITURES & OTHER FINANCING USES Public Safety 16 Public Works 17 Health and Social Services 18 Culture and Recreation 19 Community and Economic Development 20 General Government 21 Debt Service 22 Capital Projects 23 Total Government Activities Expenditures 24 Business Type/Enterprise 25 Total Gov Activities & Business Expenditures 26 Transfers Out 27 Total Expenditures/Transfers Out 28 Excess Revenues & Other Sources Over 29 (Under) Expenditures/Transfers Out Beginning Fund Balance July 1, 2023 30 04/29/2024 12:23 PM Ending Fund Balance June 30, 2024 31 Explanation of Changes: Water Project Expenses in this fiscal year

Total Budget as Certified or Last Amended 115,210 0 115,210 0 0 67,798 500 15,200 71,356 184,400 0 74,550 0 46,975 575,989

Current Amendment

Total Budget After Current Amendment 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5,000 0 0 0 0 110,000 0 115,000

115,210 0 115,210 0 0 67,798 500 20,200 71,356 184,400 0 74,550 110,000 46,975 690,989

23,851 154,149 1,200 224,904 11,700 63,035 27,855 0 506,694 111,262 617,956 46,975 664,931

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 110,000 110,000 0 110,000

23,851 154,149 1,200 224,904 11,700 63,035 27,855 0 506,694 221,262 727,956 46,975 774,931

-88,942

5,000

-83,942

577,140 488,198

0 5,000

577,140 Page 1 of 1 493,198

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • May 2, 2024

Public Notices Board Minutes April 22, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am April 22, 2024 with all members present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order. Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to discuss road department matters. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to approve the job offer to Elijah Nymeyer for the open position on the Bridge Crew, and approve his hire after he accepts and passes the required pre-employment physicals. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting and the claims filed with the Board. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Faldet to decline the request by the Secondary Roads Union to reopen the Collective Bargaining Agreement for wage considerations. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Vermace and seconded by Kelsay to approve the Employee Assistance Program renewal with Employee & Family Resources. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Faldet to approve the quote for a new forklift at the recycling department. Motion carried unanimously. The quote for installation of solar panels will be considered at a future meeting. The Board discussed lease rates for the tenants at the Community Services Building. Moved by Kelsay and seconded by Vick to direct the County Attorney to draft proposed leases for the tenants’ consideration as one year leases with month to month renewals thereafter at the following rates: $500/mo. for Toys-Go-Round, $2000/mo. for the Food Pantry, $2000/mo. for NEI3A, and $2000/mo. for Spectrum. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vermace to open the public hearing on the proposed FY25 Budget. Motion carried unanimously. Ben Steines, County Auditor, gave an overview of the proposed budget and budgeting history. Questions and comments were received from the public. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vermace to adopt resolution 24-42, approving the FY25 Budget as published. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to adopt resolution 24-43, approving the raises for elected officials at 55% of the recommendations of the Compensation Board. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Andy Van Der Maaten, County Attorney, met with the Board to discuss county issues. Moved by Vick and seconded by Vermace to accept as a full settlement on the account with CTI a discount of $4,138.83, for the Audio Visual System upgrades made to the Annex building. Motion carried unanimously. The IT department will work with another vendor to check into options for better sound quality in the audience area. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vermace to enter a closed session to discuss the pending litigation in Peel v Winneshiek County. Closed session is authorized under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c) to discuss the litigation where disclosure of the matters is likely to prejudice or disadvantage the position of the government body in the litigation. Motion carried unanimously. A closed session was held. Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to open the session. Motion carried unanimously. Directions were given to the County Attorney on how to proceed with the litigation. Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, April 29, 2024. Motion carried unanimously. ATTEST Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Claims 04-22-2024 General Basic Fund Agvantage FS Inc. Fuel.......................780.83 Allamakee Co Solid Waste, Bale Purchase ....................................249.00 Allamakee-Clayton Electric, Utility .....51.72 Alliant Energy, Utilities ....................1954.67 Amazon Capital Services, Supplies .... 149.70 Anderson Law Office, Legal Services .. 75.00 Aramark Uniform Services, Services .129.00 AT&T Mobility, Cellular Service......2093.02 Larry Berland, Sponsor .......................500.00 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service ........................3087.57 Terry Buenzow, Services.....................700.00 Calmar Courier, Publications .............. 108.75 Calmar Motors, Services..................... 178.95 Column Software PBC, Publications ..469.92 CTI, Services.....................................5379.61 Decorah Newspapers, Publications .....817.08 DecorahNews.com, Advertising .........922.00 Ossian Bee, Publications....................... 90.00 Freeport Water District, Utilities ......... 161.52 Galls, LLC, Supplies ........................... 231.89 Hawkeye Sanitation, Inc, Services...... 200.00 Heron Consulting, Inc., Services ...... 1800.00 Faith Hlubek, Reimbursement ............608.76 Hovden Oil Co, Fuel ........................... 181.50 Huber’s Store, Supplies......................... 19.96 ICIT Treasurer, Registration ............... 350.00 Inovalon Provider, Inc., Services ......2174.77 Iowa Project WILD, Supplies ...............25.00 IROC Web Design Services, Services 270.00 ISCTA, Registration ............................150.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies .............48.04 KAR Auto Group of Decorah Inc, Services .............................................272.20 Keeper of the Stationery, Flags ............. 32.80 Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel .............................776.89 LA Communications, Inc, Advertising ........................................890.00 Chuck Lensing, Services...................1800.00 LetterWerks Sign City, LLC, Signs ....600.00 Dr. Kevin Locke, Services ..................215.00 Manpower, Services ............................250.00 Anna Mark M.D., Services ...................75.00 Martin Bros. Distributing, Supplies ....642.21 Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Parts .......... 30.36 Hanna Meyer, Reimbursement..............20.00 Midwest Computer Brokers, Inc, Services .............................................100.00 Midwest Group Benefits, Fees ............276.00 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities ......... 429.93 Modern Marketing, Supplies .............. 473.33 Mary Moen, Reimbursement ..............348.80 Motorola Solutions, Inc, Equipment .1260.00 NE IA Comm Action, Services ...........791.34 Netsmart Technologies, Inc., Maintenance Agreement .................1249.67 Evan Neubauer, Reimbursement...........20.00 Northeast Iowa RSVP, Appropriation ................................ 10000.00 Quadient Fiance USA, Inc., Postage. 1000.00 Quadient Leasing USA, Inc., Lease Agreement ................................. 74.85 Quill LLC. Supplies .............................. 18.00 Ricoh USA Inc., Maintenance Agreement ..................... 23.69 Gregg Rude, Reimbursement ................ 20.00 Schilling Supply Company, Supplies .. 563.78 Kevin E. Schoeberl, Mileage ................ 26.80 Barb Schroeder, Reimbursement .......... 60.64 Marguerite Schwarz, Reimbursement ... 20.00 Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc, Services ........................................... 1176.80 Corey Sims, Services ..........................125.00 State Forest Nursery, Seedlings ..........152.50 Storey Kenworthy, Supplies.............. 1096.57 Sutton’s Car Wash, Services ...............191.10 Deb Thorstenson, Transport .................. 30.00 Thrifty White Pharmacy, Services ...... 394.67 Jonathan Turbett, Reimbursement ...... 436.44 Upper Explorerland RPC, Services..... 281.38 Steve Vanden Brink, Services ............. 110.00 Shirley Vermace, Reimbursement ....... 179.00 Trent Vileta, Reimbursement .............. 100.00 Winn Co Auditor, Rent......................7614.75 Wright Way Computers, LLC, Services .............................................102.18 Christopher Wuebker, Reimbursement .................................208.00 General Supplemental Fund Lynne Bullerman, Reimbursement .....307.06 Lauri Kaeser. Reimbursement .............346.50 North Iowa Juvenile Detention, Services ...........................................5425.00 Ben Steines, Reimbursement ..............722.02 Jonathan Turbett, Reimbursement ...... 536.45 Whitney Reporting Services, Services 107.50 Water Testing Grant Fund Holly Benda, Plug Well.......................800.00 Rural Services Basic Fund Alliant Energy, Utilities ........................23.31 Daniel Beard, Meeting .......................... 45.00 Bruce Bergsgaard, Meeting................... 45.00 Decorah Auto Center Inc, Services ..... 134.11 Diamond Mowers LLC, Equipment . 8433.39 Dale Johnson, Meeting..........................45.00 Kwik Trip Inc, Fuel ............................... 71.93 James Ludeking, Meeting .....................45.00 Tony Meyer, Meeting ............................ 45.00 Gary Smorstad, Meeting ....................... 45.00 J Wayne Wicks, Meeting ....................... 45.00 Winn Co Landfill, Fees .....................1452.62 Secondary Road Fund Agvantage FS Inc, Fuel...................44012.67 Alliant Energy, Utilities ......................226.63 Aramark Uniform Services, Services1317.93 AT&T Mobility, Cellular Service........770.44 Bruening Rock Prod, Materials.........1964.37 Calmar Courier, Publications .............. 150.00

City of Ridgeway, Utilities ...................29.26 Compass Minerals America, Inc, Materials .......................................15243.48 Freeport Water District, Utilities .........306.25 Hovden Oil Co, Fuel ......................... 2972.35 Huber’s Store, Supplies........................... 0.92 IA St University Extension, Registration ....................................... 270.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies ........... 411.04 Kirkeby Welding, Services................ 3442.40 Jeffrey Kuboushek, Reimbursement .....93.65 Marv Smith Electric, LLC, Services . 1024.37 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities ....... 1007.40 Moyson Resources, Services .............. 950.00 MWSCO, Supplies.............................. 136.61 Beth Novotny, Reimbursement ............. 33.50 Perry Novak Electric, Inc, Services .... 703.17 Racom Corporation, Services ............... 93.50 Weis Buick GMC, Services ................ 249.40 Dana Williams, Reimbursement ........... 73.53 WinnMed, Services ............................. 180.00 Ziegler Inc, Services ....................... 13866.28 Co Conserv Capital Improv Fund Gracious Living Knetucky Inc, Supplies ........................................... 8605.16 County Assessor Agency Fund Jim Alstad, Reimbursement ..................29.00 Watson & Ryan PLC, Services ........... 761.90 E911 Surcharge Fund Alliant Energy, Utilities ........................98.25 Black Hills Energy, Natural Gas Service ............................ 56.78 CenturyLink, E911 Service ...................52.38 Fuse Technic LLC, Services ............. 1400.00 MiEnergy Cooperative, Utilities ......... 631.27 Emergency Management Comm Julie Archer, Reimbursement ................90.00 AT&T Mobility, Cellular Service........151.00 Casey’s Business MasterCard, Fuel ......73.91 Datamaxx Applied Technologies, Services ............................................. 323.00 Elizabeth Dietrich, Reimbursement ......90.00 Erica Jensen, Reimbursement ............... 90.00 Corey Shuman, Reimbursement ........... 90.00 Verizon Wireless, Cell Service ..............40.01 Winneshiek Co Health Ins Fund Midwest Group Benefits, Health Insurance ........................... 31232.78 Midwest Group Benefits, Fees ............ 997.50 Wellmark. Insurance .....................136812.60 Grand Total ...................................348347.52 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion May 2, 2024 Decorah Community School Board Special School Board Meeting Minutes Central Administration Office Monday, April 29, 2024 12:00 p.m. (noon) Present: President Cindy Goodner, Directors: Ron Fadness, Brian Petersburg, Carole Sand, and Aaron Zander. Supt. Dr. Tim Cronin, Director of Business Services Cathy Dietzenbach, Board Secretary Darlene Woodhouse, and staff. Director Aaron Zander participated via Zoom. President Goodner called to order the special school board meeting at 12:00 p.m. Director Sand read the mission statement. The district received bids for the Middle School Roof project. Bids received were $1,018,100, $1,038,713, $1,147,604, $1,163,175. The board and Shive-Hattery, Inc. were pleased with the bids. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Sand to approve the low bid from Academy Roofing and Sheet Metal Company from Des Moines, IA as recommended by Shive-Hattery, Inc. Director Fadness amended his motion to approve the bid with the alternates with a bid of$1,018,100. Motion carried by all voting aye. Construction will begin May 30, 2024, substantial completion by August 9, 2024, and final completion by August 30, 2024. Supt. Dr. Cronin and High School Athletic Director Adam Riley updated the board on the recent process of joining an athletic conference. Mr. Riley stated the district is following the provisions in Chapter 37 of the Iowa Code in this process. The Upper Iowa Conference has denied the district’s request to join the conference leaving the request for mediation as the next step in the process. Motion: Director Fadness moved, seconded by Director Petersburg to adopt the Resolution to Request Mediation on Denial of Application to the Upper Iowa Conference with the Department of Education. Roll Call: Director Petersburg, aye; Director Fadness, aye; President Goodner, aye; Director Sand, aye; Director Zander, aye. Motion carried by all voting aye. Motion: Director Petersburg moved, seconded by Director Zander to set May 13, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. as the Public Hearing for the 2023-2024 amended budget. Motion carried by all voting aye. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:18 p.m. Cindy Goodner, Board President Darlene Woodhouse, Board Secretary Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion May 2, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANITA MARIE LANSING, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016291 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, OF APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Anita Marie Lansing, Deceased, who died on or about April 9, 2024: You are hereby notified that on April 24, 2024, the Last Will and Testament Anita Marie Lansing, deceased, bearing date of April 13, 2001, and Codicil to Last Will of Testament dated February 26, 2008, were admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Debra Stephey and Donald Lansing have been appointed executors of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred. Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred. Dated April 24, 2024 Debra Stephey, Co-Executor of Estate 2166 Sussex Rd. Winter Park, FL 32792 Donald Lansing, Co-Executor of Estate 2605 Heather View Circle Marion, IA 52302 Andrew P. Nelson, ICIS#: AT0005669 Attorney for Executors Meyer, Lorentzen & Nelson 101 ½ E. Water Street P.O. Box 126 Decorah, IA 52101 Date of second publication: May 9, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion May 2 & 9, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE: Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) proposes to construct a 359-foot guyed communications tower. Anticipated lighting application is medium intensity dual red/white strobes. The Site location is near 1321 State Highway 9, Decorah, Winneshiek County, Iowa, 43-14-23.03 N, 91-39-33.03 W. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Antenna Structure Registration (ASR, Form 854) filing number is A1092273. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS – Interested persons may review the application (www.fcc.gov/asr/applications) by entering the filing number. Environmental concerns may be raised by filing a Request for Environmental Review (www.fcc.gov/asr/ environmentalrequest) and online filings are strongly encouraged. The mailing address to file a paper copy is: FCC Requests for Environmental Review, Attn: Ramon Williams, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554. HISTORIC PROPERTIES EFFECTS Public comments regarding potential effects on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Terracon Consultants, Inc., Noah Oswald, 15080 A Circle, Omaha, NE 68144, 402-3302202, noah.oswald@terracon.com. Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion May 2, 2024

DHS Class of 1974 plans 50th reunion Organizers are planning the 50th reunion of the Decorah High School Class of 1974 for the weekend of Aug. 2-3 in Decorah. Addresses and e-mails for classmates are currently being sought. Information can be forwarded by e-mail to decorah1974@gmail.com. Further information about the 50th reunion will be announced in the coming weeks.

Winneshiek County Board of Health tours county jail

The annual Board of Health Inspection at the Winneshiek County Jail was done March 13 by the Winneshiek County Board of Health. The Board of Health toured the jail and saw the recent renovation in the jail kitchen that made the workspace more user-friendly. Jail staff and Board of Health members discussed the close working relationship the jail has with community healthcare partners, such as clinics and pharmacies, to ensure the inmates are not without their healthcare and prescription medications. The Board of Health commended the dedicated jail staff who provide safe, appropriate and exceptional care to the inmates. To read the board of health’s full report, visit winneshiekcounty.iowa.gov/departments/ sheriff/jail-reports.

Conference realignment continued from front approach the Department of Education and ask for their help in mediating our placement.” Decorah Athletic Director Adam Riley said the mediation application will keep the process moving along to have a seat at the table to have a discussion. Following state code is of the utmost important in the conference realignment process. “We know that we are guaranteed a conference,” Cronin said, “but once it goes to the Department of Education, we don’t control the process. We present a case and show a document trail, and what the mediators do with the documentation is unknown.” Roof project In other business at Monday’s special meeting, Board members approved the specifications and bids for the Middle School roof replacement project. Academy Roofing had the low bid for the project at $1,018,100. Construction will begin in late May, and completion is expected by Aug. 30. Board members approved an architectural bid of $48,000 in February from Shive Hattery Architecture Engineering to draw up the plans and specifications prior to the bid opening. DCSD Superintendent Tim Cronin informed the board several months ago that the roof on the 17-year-old Decorah Middle School has leaked for 16 ½ of those years. Original roofing contractors attempted temporary repairs over the years, but those efforts were quickly exhausted. “We are counting our lucky stars that this (bid) came in as we expected or even lower,” Board President Goodner commented. “This is really great news.” The next meeting of the Board is Tuesday, May 13, and a public hearing will be conducted at 5:30 p.m. on a proposed amendment to the school budget.

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, May 2, 2024 9

Turkey Valley prom

Decorah city workers show off the bronze medallion that marks the scientiﬁc point of impact of a meteor, before it was installed at Van Peenan Park recently. (submitted)

Autumn Maklenburg takes a spin to show off her prom dress with date Russell Nieman at Mikkelson In the spotlight during Turkey Valley’s Kinek Reicks and Haylee Hanson have a dance- Park amphitheater in New Hamp- Grand March Saturday night are Tayoff in the limelight during Saturday’s Grand March ton. (Driftless Multimedia photos lor Desloover and Ashlyn Busta. by Becky Walz) at Turkey Valley.

Crater’s point of impact marked by new St. Benedict 2024 Speech Contest held bronze medallion A new marker has been installed at Decorah’s Van Peenen Park. The large bronze medallion set into a concrete base marks the scientiﬁc point of impact of a meteor that struck 465 million years ago; long before dinosaurs roamed the earth. The new marker was funded by Winneshiek County Development and Tourism (WCDT) through a “Travel Iowa” state grant and the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce through a Winneshiek County Community Foundation grant. Decorah Parks and Recreation provided labor and materials to set the marker at the correct location. Information from WCDT said there are only 200 recognized impact structures on the earth. In 2015, the discovery of Decorah’s Impact Crater made international news. It also spurred local product designs, a local single-track trail race, and new educational curriculum. Now there is a formal marker that can serve as a destination for residents and visitors. “We know people are going to be confused that the marker for the crater is located on a hill,” said Alyssa Ritter with Visit Decorah Tourism. “Actually, most people assume Decorah is ‘in the crater’, but the landscape we see and experience today actually sits many layers above the ‘crater layer.’ Because the geologic layer of the Decorah Impact Crater is actually far below the current ground level, 300 feet below the marker actually, we know we will spend a lot of time talking about how much has changed since the meteor hit

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that GPS coordinate.” WCDT said, “To stand on the ‘point of impact’, recommendations are to park at the main entrance to Van Peenen Park off of Quarry Hill Road in Decorah. From the informational kiosk, take the Huginn Trail loop (a 1.7 mile total trek). This offroad trail includes slight elevation changes and those visiting the site are encouraged to dress for the weather and conditions, avoiding times of mud if possible.” For more information, visit www.decorahcrater.com.

The annual St. Benedict School Speech Contest was held Wednesday, April 17, at St. Benedict School. Speech Coordinator Paula Jewell worked with the seventh and eighth grade students as they each memorized a three to eight minute monologue, varying from serious to humorous to motivational categories. The top 10 speeches moved on to the Northeast Iowa Catholic Speech Contest held April 22 at St. Teresa in Ossian. Those who advanced and their speech titles are as follows: Eden Northup, “Politically Correct Story of Red Riding Hood;” Carissa Peel, “Believe You Can;” Rachel Weis, “Three Seconds;” Gracelynn Tangen, “You Vs You;” and Nessa Kane, “The Morning Drive.” Back row: AuPictured are the St. Benedict top 10 speech contestants who advanced to the drey Remington, “A Boring Sermon;” Gage Hartthe Northeast Iowa Catholic Speech Contest. Front row (l-r): Eden Northup, ley, “I’m Trapped;” Jay Jensen, “Chocolate Cake;” Carissa Peel, Rachel Weis, Gracelynn Tangen, and Nessa Kane. Back row: Bennett Coppola, “Social Anxiety;” and Kenan Audrey Remington, Gage Hartley, Jay Jensen, Bennett Coppola and Kenan White, “Chocolate Cake.” White. (submitted)

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Coming up in varsity sports May 2 – Dec b golf vs. Waverly-Shell Rock/Charles City (Oneota), 2 p.m.; Dec b ten at Columbus, 4 p.m.; SW g/b golf at Central Elkader, 4 p.m.; TV g/b golf at Clayton Ridge, 4 p.m.; Dec g/b tr at NEIC (Charles City), 4:30 p.m.; SW g/b tr host UIC, 4:30 p.m.; TV g/b tr at UIC (Calmar), 4:30 p.m.; Dec g soc vs. Union, 5 p.m. May 3 – TV g/b golf at Crestwood, 4 p.m. May 4 – Dec g/b soc at Waverly-Shell Rock tnmts., 9 a.m.; Dec g ten vs. Oelwein, 2 p.m. May 6 – Dec g ten at regionals (TBA), 9 a.m.; SW/TV b golf at UIC (Guttenberg), 9 a.m.; Dec g golf at NEIC (New Hampton), 10 a.m.; Dec b golf host NEIC tnmt. (Oneota), 10 a.m.; Dec g soc at North Fayette Valley, 4:30 p.m.

Sports Editor: Becky Walz

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PAGE 10

THURSDAY MAY 2, 2024

DECORAH, SOUTH WINNESHIEK, TURKEY VALLEY

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sports@decorahnewspapers.com

Trojans drop pair to Bulldogs

Looking for SW invite results?

The Decorah, South Winn and Turkey Valley girls and boys track and ﬁeld teams were in action Monday at the Warrior Invite in Calmar. The Warrior boys won the home meet, while Crestwood girls took the title. Complete results with additional photos will be available online at www.decorahnewspapers.com. ABOVE: Layni Schuchhardt leads the sprint medley relay ﬁnal leg around turn three. Also pictured are South Winn’s Alyssa Timp and Decorah’s Hadley Alexander. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

Five in a row for Viking boys

The Turkey Valley golf teams dropped a pair of golf meets to UIC frontrunner MFL MarMac at Jackson Height Golf Course Monday, but it took a pair of season-low scores by the Bulldogs in both the girls and boys meets to do it. “We didn’t play too bad ourselves, as the TV boys also shot a season-low score of 170, while the TV girls, at a combined 221, were just one stroke away from their season best as well,” said Coach John Reicks. The two-time defending UIC champion Bulldogs had three golfers shoot below 40 on the cold, cloudy evening to win 156 to 170. Trojans Caleb Kurtenbach (41), Nicholas Bernhard (41) and Oliver Schmitt (42) scored well and Logan Busta (46) help fashion the 170 cumulative total. Braylen Byrne (54) and Brady Blong (57) also appeared on the Turkey Valley varsity scorecard. For the girls, MFL MarMac won 201 to 221, with Morgan Vsetecka ﬁring a career low 48 to grab runner-up medalist honors for the Trojans. Annika Bodensteiner (56), Soﬁa Rivera (57) and Brooklyn Kuennen (60) also counted for the Lady Trojans. Delaney Busta (61), Emma Brincks (66), Kendall Kuennen (66) and Karstyn Lukes (73) also battled the elements for the Trojans.

For the ﬁfth time, the Decorah boys’ tennis team won the conference title Monday. Members of the winning squad were (lr) Caden Branum, Liam Chamberlain, Keaton Nalean-Carlson, Caleb Krieg, Tristan Hunter and Seth Bolson. (submitted photo) NCC team scores 1. Decorah 48; 2. Waverly-Shell Rock 44; 3. Marion 38; 4. Osage 24; 5. Grinnell 16; 5. Independence 16; 7. South Tama 12

Since the beginning of the North Central Conference tennis meet five years ago, no other team besides seventh-ranked Decorah has taken the title as the Vikings dominated the courts in Grinnell Monday. With 48 points, Decorah edged No. 5 Waverly-Shell Rock for the conference title, to go with the crowning two singles and one doubles team champions. It was a flighted tourney where teams could enter one player or doubles team, respectively, in the A or B flight bracket. Decorah was missing it’s No. 3 player, which made the goal of winning a little harder. In Flight 1 singles, senior Caden Branum won the title and was voted Most Valuable Conference Player of the year. “Caden continues to lead this team and impress coaches and fans alike,” noted Coach Matt Anderson. Liam Chamberlain won Flight B singles and is playing his best tennis of the season, according to the Viking coach.

Keaton Nalean-Carlson and Caleb Krieg, a junior new to the lineup and filling in for the Vikings’ missing player, represented Decorah in Flight A doubles, finishing third. “I challenged this team to finish third, knowing those points would be critical, and they delivered. Flight A doubles was the toughest group of the day as it turns out, with most top teams sending their top players into doubles,” added Coach Anderson. In Flight B doubles, Tristan Hunter and Seth Bolson came up with the most improbable result of the day, winning it all. “I thought we could play great and get a second place if everything fell into place, but the boys had other thoughts, and their semifinal win against Waverly-Shell Rock set the table for the team to win. I have to mention the growth of freshman Tristan (Hunter) over the last three weeks, as he took over the final match with consistent hard hitting play. Being a player down and already having lost to W-SR once this year, we knew winning would be tough, but this is one the most fun and memorable days of tennis I’ve had in the last three years of successes,” the coach concluded.

Decorah boys take MFL MM title

Thomas Hammel runs toward the ﬁnish line for gold in the 800-meter run Tuesday. (Photo courtesy of Amy Averhoff)

With the team divided Monday, with some at South Winn and some at MFL MarMac, the Decorah boys’ track and field team shone bright, winning the Bulldog Invite with 212 points, well ahead of the hosts’ 138. Decorah claimed gold in 14 of the 19 events. In the field events, it was Trevor Kuennen winning the long jump with a distance of 20 feet, 3.5 inches, while William Hahn sent the shot put 44 feet, 11 inches for the title. Kelley Gates broke the tape in 11.07 seconds to win the 100-meter dash, while Brayden Hartl was the champion of the 200-meter dash in 23.64 seconds. In the 800-meter run, Thomas Hammel ran away from the field to win in 2:05.32. In the distance events it was Oliver Bollinger and Davis Coppola with the golden times. Bollinger earned the 1600-meter title in 5:03.92, while Coppola’s

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Vikings knock off Wahlert, NH

The Class 2A No. 7 Decorah boys soccer team (10-3) are on a roll, picking up back-to-back wins to start the week over Dubuque Wahlert and New Hampton. Playing on their home pitch against the Golden Eagles (2-8) Monday, the Vikes garnered one goal in the ﬁrst half and added a pair of insurance goals in the second half for the 3-0 win. Tuesday night, Decorah competed at New Hampton (2-7), coming home with an 11-1 victory, having score seven goals in the ﬁrst half. No other stats or game information were available at press time. Next up for Decorah is a tournament at Waverly-Shell Rock Saturday, May 4, at 9 a.m.

Landon Kuennen looks to make a pass as a Wahlert defender closes in during Monday’s 3-0 win at home. (Photo courtesy of Heather Benzing)

Decorah girls finally get on home courts On Monday, the Decorah girls tennis team was finally on its home courts for the first time this season against the Osage Green Devils, then were back on the road Tuesday at Waverly-Shell Rock. Thanks seniors! It was a good night for the Decorah girls Monday, picking up an 8-1 victory over Osage as the Vikings honored their senior members. In competition, the Vikings took off quickly in singles, specifically finding quick first-set victories in No. 3-6 singles. Ultimately, at No. 3 singles, Camryn Holland defeated Brooklyn Brock, 6-1 and 6-3. At No. 4 singles, Kaitlyn Bjork settled into a 6-1, 6-1 victory over Marley Kerrick; at No. 5 singles, Jaidyn Duvel won 6-0, 6-2 over Taylor Swenson; and, at No. 6 singles,

Klaara Short defeated Ava Hennesey 6-2, 6-0. Most excitingly, at No. 1 singles and No. 2 singles, both Evon Leitz and Olivia Huinker found victory in third set match tiebreakers. Both Leitz and Huinker fell to their opponents in their ﬁrst sets 3-6; however, both dominated their second sets. Leitz (No. 1) won her second set 6-2 and third set “match tiebreaker” 10-7 over Kaitlyn Olson. Meanwhile Huinker (No. 2) won her second set 6-1 and their set match tiebreaker) 10-8 to best Kendall Olson. According to Coach Huinker, “Winning all six of our singles matches was a moment I will not forget. All of our girls worked through some challenges - the wind, having to generate their own pace, and playing in front of a larger crowd, which brings some nervous energy into the mix. Speciﬁcally, Evon and Oliv-

ia were challenged immensely as tennis players today, and I am so proud of their mental toughness and overall focus and drive.” In doubles, the duo of E. Leiz/ Huinker fell at No. 1 to the Olson duo, 2-6 and 1-6, but victories were found at both No. 2 and No. 3. At No. 2 doubles, Leah Holland/Duvel set each other up for active and effective net play and soundly defeated Brock and Hennesey by a pair of 6-1 sets. At No. 3 doubles, Addie Maki/Dylin Thompson, with their hustle and consistency secured a sound 6-2, 6-0 victory over Kerrick and Swenson. Regional Monday One match stands between the Vikings and the postseason, as they will play at home Saturday, May 4, against Oelwein in the ﬁnal make-up match of the season at 2 p.m.

Johnson selected to play in Shrine Bowl

Bode Balk tees off in a recent TV home meet. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

Lady Vikes endure rain

Looking to complete the final NEIC meet of the season Tuesday, the Decorah girls golf team stomached a pair of rain delays before finishing behind Waverly-Shell Rock in spite of carding its lowest score of the season. The Go-Hawks won the meet 181 to 195. Maria Riveros was solid on the course in Waverly, with a 38 to earn medalist honors. For the first time in her career, Sophia Fahey broke the 50 mark, firing a 49. Olivia Brynsaas and Isabella Sailor rounded out the Viking scorecard with 54s. Riann Oberbroeckling (59) and Lulu Bellrichard (60) also toured the course.

time of 10:24.63 was the best in the 3200-meter field. In 15.47 seconds, Dakota Johnson won the final individual gold in the 110-meter hurdles. Six relays also won for the Vikes. In 1:05.11, the shuttle hurdle quartet of Cade Averhoff, Kaiden Youngblood, Gavin Groux and Joshua Adam won. In the 4x100 relay it was Johnson, Gates and Groux teaming up with Kaiden Quandahl for the win in 44.11 seconds. Jace Buddenberg, Kuennen, Peyton Webb and Hartl took first in the 4x200 in 1:35.73. In 3:49.77, it was Montana Jump-Gerleman, Garrett Waskow, Landyn Hook and D’mitry Lesser breaking the tape. Taking first in the 4x800 in 8:41.35 was the quartet of Grant Zilka, Garrett See, Lesser and Hook. Jump-Gerleman, Waskow, Kyle Pattison and Bill Fullhart completed the distance medley relay in 3:52.98 for their title.

Decorah High School’s Dakota Johnson has been selected to play in this year’s esteemed Iowa Shrine Bowl lineup. Recog- Dakota Johnson nized as a formidable force on the ﬁeld, Johnson was a First Team All-State, First Team All-District, and First Team Academic All-District running back for Decorah for the 2023 sea-

son. He ran for 1,358 yards, averaging 8 yards per carry and scored an impressive 21 touchdowns. He also had 21.5 tackles on defense and one interception. In sync with the game’s honorable cause, Johnson will participate in fundraising efforts for Shriners Children’s Hospitals. Today, Shriners Children’s Hospitals offer care for a range of orthopedic issues and several other conditions. To date, the Iowa Shrine Bowl has donated more than 3 million dollars to Shriners Hospitals.

SW linksters to roll by WC After what the Warriors may have thought a disappointing day Friday against Decorah and Turkey Valley, the South Winn golf teams rebounded to defeat West Central at Big Rock Country Club in Fayette Monday. The Warrior boys handed the Blue Devils a loss 160 to 213. Matson Winings took top honors with a 39, while teammate Jackson Goltz carded a 40 as the runner-up. Braiden Todd also came through with a 40, while Cale Kleppe rounded out the varsity scorecard with a 41. Jordan Baumler (43) and Carson Streeter (47) also competed in the varsity line-up. “I thought the boys did a phenomenal job of rebounding after the tough round on Friday. Our depth was on full display as we got terriﬁc scores out of the 5 and 6 holes with Matson and Jackson. This was a terriﬁc round, and one

Julia Carnesi sets up for a shot to the green in a recent Warrior meet. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

that hopefully we can build off of as the postseason approaches,” said SW boys coach Mike Wenthold. Also rebounding to win the Lady Warriors moved to 8-3 in dual action 213 to 242 without missing one of their key linksters, Annie Ondrashek. Katrina Hageman shot a season low, 48, to earn medalist honors, and Aubrey Hageman shot a career low 54, earning runner-up medalist honors. Also counting for SW were Julia Carnesi (55) and Paige Jaster (56). Other varsity golfers on the course were Brooke Steffans (57) and Avery Luzum (69). “It was yet another great night for the Warrior girls golf team as we keep having girls show up and score for our team. This level of competition will be a good way to prepare us for the conference tournament and Regionals,” said Warrior girls Coach Glenna Munuswamy. Non-conference triangular The Lady Warriors hosted a pair of strong non-conference programs, Crestwood and Charles City, at South Winn Golf & Country Club, Tuesday night and ﬁnished in the middle with 211. Crestwood won the meet with 187, while the Comets ﬁnished the day at 216. Leading the way for SW were Brooke Steffans, with a career-low 48, followed by Katrina Hageman and Julia Carnesi, both with 51s. Completing the Warrior scorecard with a 61 was Aubrey Hageman. Paige Jaster also came through with a 61, while Annie Ondrashek fashioned a 67.

Johnson raised money through game program sponsorships and other sponsorships during the game. His sponsorships were due by May 1. People can also donate directly to Shriners Children’s Hospitals by going online. The game will be played on Saturday, July 20, at 4 p.m., at the UNI-Dome. Johnson will be playing defensive back for the North Squad and has committed to play for Wartburg College in the fall. His parents are Darin Johnson and Heather Hollar.

Second half goal scores win for girls

Tuesday night, the Decorah girls’ soccer team (2-6) managed to squeak out a 3-2 win on the road at New Hampton (1-4). With a strong wind at their backs in the ﬁrst half, the Vikings Nora Lesmeister and Ana Simon were able to put two goals on the board. While Decorah controlled much of the possession and had other chances, they couldn’t put an insurance goal away. “The second half was disappointment. The wind had died and we continued to control much of the possession, but one of the few times New Hampton had the ball they were somehow able to break through our defense and score to make it 2-1,” said Coach Loren Hendrickson. Then on a corner kick, the ball was bouncing around, and a Viking player deﬂected the ball into their own goal to tie the game at 2-2. With under three minutes left in the game, Lesmeister put a ball through NH’s defensive line that Sara Johanningmeier was able to control, dribbling another 20 yards and putting a perfectly placed shot past the NH goalkeeper for the winning 3-2 margin. Decorah had a total of 11 shots on goal. Lesmeister Amelia Wadsworth had three of them each with Gabbi Dixon having two. With one each were Johanningmeier, Simon and Vivian Searcy. Clara Hjelle made four saves in the goal.