October 12, 2023

Thursday, October 12, 2023

Vol. 158, Issue 41

Decorah, Iowa 52101 www.decorahnewspapers.com

One Section

Price One Dollar

email: news@decorahnewspapers.com

phone: 563-382-4221

fax: 563-382-5949

2023 Election explored Decorah Nov. ballot detailed by ward

Norse pride on display

Decorah City ward map, which depicts the most recent updates to each ward after the 2021 redistricting and 2020 census.

Andrew and Alli (Kephart) Tjossem returned for Luther Homecoming with their sons Henrik and Iver.

They live in Eagan, Minn.

By Denise Lana

The Luther Norse Flag was flying throughout the parade route and along Water Street and College Drive during the homecoming weekend festivities last week.

Luther College President Jenifer K. Ward drove down Water Street with Board of Regents member Willie Davismckennie (’84 alum) behind the wheel.

Members of the Luther College Black Alumni Association and Black Student Union made their way on the parade route.

Tau Delta Gamma sorority was represented at the Luther Homecoming Parade.

(Driftless Multimedia photos by Roz Weis)

The 2023 Decorah election for city council, school board, and parks and recreation is just around the corner! Wards in the city were redistricted just after the 2021 election, and the new ward map is depicted above.

City Council will be seeking new ward representatives for Wards 1 and 4 as well as filling an At Large opening. Candidates for city council include Jody Meyer and Brent Parker for Ward 1 representative, Steve Zittergruen for Ward 4 representative, and Emily Neal for At Large.

Zittergruen, who was elected in 2021 to represent Ward 5, now falls into Ward 4 due to the map redistricting. Ward 4 representative Steve Luse’s term is ending and he will not be seeking re-election, but due to city rules, when two or more council members reside in the same ward, that ward automatically has to go on the next election’s ballot.

Hence, Zittergruen is on the ballot for Ward 4 representative.

Kirk Johnson, one of two current At Large representatives, is completing his four-year term and is not seeking re-election.

Neal was elected in 2019 as Ward 2 rep but fell into Ward 1 after the map redistricting. With her four-year term ending, Neal is seeking reelection for city council, but

now hopes to fill the seat now open after Johnson’s departure. Randy Schissel was elected in 2021 to represent Ward 1, but after the map redistricting, he fell into Ward 5. Because he has two years remaining in his term, Schissel will continue to serve on the council as Ward 5 representative. Ward 2 has no candidate on the ballot, and no current representative. Ward 3 representative Kirsten Olson will serve two more years, as will Ross Hadley, the second At-Large representative on the council.

The 2023 Regular City and School Election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 7, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Absentee voting by mail begins Wednesday, Oct. 18 through Monday, Oct. 23. Absentee voting in the Winneshiek County Auditor’s Office, open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Courthouse, Decorah, begins Oct. 18 through Nov. 6.

Watch for candidate profiles in the Public Opinion’s upcoming election guide.

For more information, including voting locations, sample ballots and more, scan this QR code to connect to the Winneshiek County Auditor’s website regarding upcoming elections.

Five-year reciprocity agreement with Mabel-Canton School District expires

Decorah Community School Board (DCSB) members were informed at the regular monthly meeting Monday night that the five-year reciprocity agreement with the Mabel-Canton School District is scheduled to expire soon.

In fall 2018, the Dec-

orah-North Winneshiek interim school board (which was organized during the merger talks between Decorah and North Winn) approved a five-year reciprocity agreement with Mabel-Canton School District, allowing North Winneshiek area students to attend Mabel-Canton, about two miles from the Iowa border in Minnesota.

After the merger of North Winneshiek, some parents opted for their children to attend Mabel-Canton, due to proximity to their homes, consistency and community. The matter was discussed at length in 2018.

The interim board at that time was made up of representatives from both Decorah and North Winn Boards. The inter-state

The St. Benedict eighth grade class will present the musical “The Enchantment of Beauty and the Beast” (Pioneer Drama Productions). Performances will be held Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., at Carrie Lee School auditorium in Decorah.

In this adapted classic fable, a selfish prince (Bennett Coppola) refuses to provide rest and shelter for a disguised wizard (Jay Jensen). He curses him for his selfish ways. The prince is then destined to be a “beast” (Bennett Coppola - Act I/Jalen Klees - Act II) until he learns compassion and love for others.

Years later, a poor widow (Eden Northup) takes the beast’s forbidden rose. Though the beast sentences her to death, he allows her to go back and see her

family (Rachel Weis, Carissa Peel, Carlton Nordschow, Lucas Weigle and their dog, Ray Hayek) one last time. Beauty (Gracie Tangen), the widow’s youngest daughter, goes in her place to spare her mother’s life. With the help of the castle’s occupants (Aiden Whalen, Maggie Gavle, Molly Keuhner, Anders Wicklund, Dawson Irons, Dominic Christopher and Brock Bullerman), Beauty is able to help the Beast learn how to love and show compassion.

The team behind the performances includes: director/producer Paula Jewell; co-director Indigo Fish; music director Sarah Kowitz; art director Sherri Holland; dance director Jess Tangen; videographer Judy Franzen; and tech crew Andy Carlon, Ari Albert and Becca Kane.

Front row (l-r): Jay Jensen, Carissa Peel, Rachel Weis, Anders Wicklund-subbing in for Aiden Whalen, Bennett Coppola, Gracelynn Tangen, Maggie Gavle and Molly Kuehner. Back row: Dominic Christopher, Dawson Irons, Eden Northup, Brock Bullerman, Jalen Klees, Carlton Nordschow and Lucas Weigle. Not pictured: Ray Hayek and Aiden Whalen.(submitted photo)

By Roz Weis

reciprocity agreement was a major talking point in the merger negotiations.

DCSD Superintendent Tim Cronin informed board members Monday night that in 2018, it was expected that 14-15 students would attend Mabel-Canton and utilize the reciprocity plan. Instead, that number has grown and has averaged about

30 students each year.

When the reciprocity agreement was approved, then-Mabel-Canton Superintendent Gary Kuphal stated he believed the number of students who wanted to attend Mabel-Canton would decline. He believed there would be a “natural break” from the move to Mabel-Canton. That has not been

the case, with an average of 30 students continuing to travel to Minnesota for school at a cost of approximately $7,635 per student per year in state aid.

The financial impact of the reciprocity agreement was then discussed. Cronin said that with

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St. Ben’s musical ‘The Enchantment of Beauty and the Beast’ Oct. 18

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2 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, October 12, 2023

Nordic Dancer tryouts Oct. 19 in Decorah

All Decorah third-graders in public, private and home schools are welcome to try out to become a Junior Nordic Dancer.

Nearly 500 dancers and musicians have proudly entertained and represented Decorah at home and around the world for decades. The dancers are among the highlights at every Nordic Fest, and the junior and senior dancer groups and orchestra perform several times during the three-day fest each July.

Practice for those interested will take place Tuesday, Oct. 17, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., at the Carrie Lee Elementary School Gym, and another practice will take place Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., at the Middle School Gym. Tryouts will be Thursday, Oct. 19, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., at the Carrie Lee Gym. They are also currently looking for two eighth grade boys to

The current group of junior group of Nordic Dancers performs at Syttende Mai at Vesterheim Museum last May. This group has now moved up to becoming senior dancers. Auditions for the junior group are scheduled Oct. 19. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Roz Weis) join the Senior Nordic Dancers group.

“If your son is interested, please reach out to one of the directors,” noted Al Weis and Ann Grimstad, two of the Nor-

NEW MINOWA PLAYERS PRESENTS

Two Stories About the Gold Buckskin Whincher Childrens Show

Script by Rick Scheffert Music and lyrics by Sheryl Scheffert Based on stories by Carl Sandburg

OCT. 19-21: 7 PM OCT. 22: 2 PM at NMP Theatre 906 S. Mill St., Decorah

TICKETS Adults $15 Children $5

Tickets available at newminowaplayers.ludus.com or at Oneota Community Food Co-op

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

a tribute to

ROCK N’ ROLL

20th anniversary tour

featuring music from Elvis to The Beatles

SATURDAY 7:00

OCT 14 PM TICKETS

$35

ea.

Call Wendy at 563547-3101 or 563-5471066 with questions

Find tickets at CUSB Bank, Cresco Bank & Trust, Cresco Chamber, Cresco City Hall and 115 2nd Ave. W. Cresco Theatre Cresco, Iowa and Opera House 563-547-1066

buy tickets online

tinyurl.com/4n7rybr8

For details, upcoming shows & events, visit

crescotheatreoperahouse.com

Construction Manager McGough Construction, Des Moines, IA Engineers Meyer Borgman Johnson, Minneapolis, MN Morrissey Engineering, Omaha, NE Contractors 1st Window Treatments, Des Moines, IA 2nd Nature Landscaping, Bloomington, MN Alamco Wood Products | Bell Structural Solutions, Albert Lea, MN Artisan Ceilings, Waterloo, IA Benzing Surveying LLC, Waukon, IA Braun Intertec, Cedar Rapids, IA Casper Plumbing & Heating Inc., Decorah, IA Croell, Inc., New Hampton, IA Darold Berger Masonry Inc., Waukon, IA David Bear, Inc., Urbandale, IA

Chloe Stalberger and her son Brink posed for a picture by the Decorah Fire Department’s rescue boat.

dic Dancer Directors.

If any parent or guardian of a third grader or eighth grade boy has questions about joining the Nordic Dancers, email Al Weis at 19alweis65@gmail.com or Ann Grimstad at anaumann5@ hotmail.com.

Thrilled with the view from atop the combine at the Touch-a-Truck event are Isaac Nimrod, at left, son of Gavin and Tori Nimrod and Crue Zwanziger, son of Mallory McArtor and Alec Zwanziger.

LEFT- Owen Dahlen, son of Aarik and Carolyn Dahlen of Decorah, sat in the military utility vehicles at Truck-a-Truck.

Barnetimen Children’s Hour continues at Vesterheim

Vesterheim welcomes preschoolers and their caregivers to the museum Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 10 a.m., to learn about the northern lights during Barnetimen Children’s Hour.

Participants will meet in the lobby of the museum’s main building to see how people have captured images of the northern lights through paintings, weavings and photographs. Participants will then make a chalk drawing inspired by the natural phenomenon and have a snack.

Barnetimen programs are free and geared toward ages three to five years old, but all ages are welcome.

New programs are offered from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., the third Tuesday of each month from September-April. No reservations are needed, but groups of 10 or more are asked to contact the museum the day before the program to help with planning.

For information or to register, contact Jennifer Kovarik at 563-382-9681 or jkovarik@ vesterheim.org.

Vesterheim gives a special thank you to the companies who helped bring the Commons to fruition! Their dedication, expertise, and hard work are evident in the beautiful structure and details.

Architects Snøhetta, Oslo, Norway & New York City, NY BNIM, Des Moines, IA

Touch-A-Truck, always a crowd pleaser

Erdman Engineering, Decorah, IA Finholt Construction, Decorah, IA Floors by Beckers LLC, New Brighton, MN For Sure Roofing, Des Moines, IA Glen-Gery Brick, Urbandale, IA Kinzler Construction Services, Waterloo, IA Latitude Signage, Grinnell, IA Perry Novak Electric, Decorah, IA Schumacher Elevator, Denver, IA Skold Construction, Des Moines, IA Skyline Construction, Decorah, IA Summit Companies, Rochester, MN Terracon, Cedar Falls, IA Walsh Door & Hardware Company, Iowa City, IA Wicks Construction, Decorah, IA Wilkie Sanderson, Sauk Rapids, MN WL Hall, Hopkins, MN Wright Way Computers, Decorah, IA Young’s Painting & Decorating, Independence, IA

Decorah Parks and Recreation Department sponsored the 7th annual Touch-A-Truck event Saturday, Oct. 7, in the parking lot behind Decorah Fire Department. The free event offered kids an opportunity to explore their favorite vehicles, including, police, fire and emergency vehicles, a school bus, farm equipment, construction equipment and city maintenance vehicles.

The event was hosted with the Decorah Fire Department in conjunction with Fire Prevention Week. ABOVE- Rotarians were on hand to provide the free lunch for the hundreds attending the event. (Driftless Multimedia photos by Roz Weis)

South Winn School Board approves early retirement packages At the Monday, Oct. 9, meeting, the South Winneshiek School Board unanimously approved an offer for an early retirement package to certified and classified staff.

Certified staff are eligible for $60,000 distributed in an Health Reimbursement Arrangement and $15,000 distributed in a Tax-Sheltered Annuity

over a two year period. Fulltime classified staff are eligible for $30,000 distributed in an HRA and $10,000 distributed in a TSA over a two-year period.

For any early retirement package, the staff must be age 55 or older with 20 years of service to the district by June 30, 2024, or June 30, 2025. Intent to retire either year must be

made in writing to the South Winneshiek School District Superintendent or the board secretary by Jan. 3, 2024.

In other business, the board approved the sale of used Mac Book Airs with chargers and Dell PCs with chargers for $50 each, and also approved the sale of outdated uniforms.

Pictured (l-r): Betty Eggers, Marian Rovang-Rude, Marcia McKelvey, Karen Guttebo, Chris Johnson, Roger Buhr, Virginia Leidahl, Amy Wrightsman, LaVonne Monson, Chip Miller and Sharon Drew. (submitted photo)

Vesterheim given ‘Citation for Beauty’ Members of the Decorah Town & Country Garden Club presented Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum with a “Citation for Beauty” on Tuesday, Sept. 12.

The certificate recognizes Vesterheim’s outstanding use of landscape annuals and perenni-

Vote

als to enhance their buildings and to contribute to the beauty of Decorah. Town & Country Garden Club President Roger Buhr presented the award to Vesterheim President/CEO Chris Johnson and Director of Administration Marcia McKelvey. Paul Laiblan is the Vesterheim Gar-

Julie

dener and Grounds Keeper who oversees all the plantings.

This is the fifth year the garden club has given the award.

Previous winners are Gehling Chiropractic (2019), Don Jose Mexican Restaurant (2020), Culver’s (2021) and Oneota Valley Eye Care Clinic (2022).

NOV. 7, 2023

Askelson

DISTRICT 3 NICC BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Proven leadership.

An accomplished educator – bringing 30+ years of experience as both a teacher and an administrator – who will bring a fresh perspective if elected to the NICC Board of Trustees.

Support and grow skills-based training

Advocate to enhance cirriculum

Continue partnership between NICC + local schools

Support growth + expansion of NICC

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, October 12, 2023 3

Supervisors approve contracts ‘Porter House After Dark’ encore The Porter House Museum cepted at the door and refresh- ly 20th century mind-reading for fuel and ice control

By Kate Klimesh Interim Winneshiek County Engineer Nick Rissman presented the Board of Supervisors Monday, Oct. 9, with contract bids for vehicle gas, diesel fuel, LP and ice control materials for Nov. 1, 2023, through Oct. 31, 2024. Bids were received from two vendors for diesel fuel delivered to each shop building.

AgVantage of Waverly was awarded the unleaded, diesel fuel and LP contract with the low bid again this year, with delivery costs bid at $16,454 for fuel and $20,160 for LP. Rissman noted that the size of the tanks makes a difference when trucking up to 9,000 gallons of fuel to the shops, with smaller tanks making for more frequent stops and more miles in the contract. The Freeport shop currently has two underground tanks for fuel, but the other county road shops have 2,000 gallon diesel tanks.

Only one ice control bid was received from Bruening Rock Products. The bid came in at between $14.439 and $14.999/ton, with 22,000 tons under contract.

The total bid of $324,498 was unanimously passed by the supervisors. It was noted the cost had increased from approximately $290,000 from the last contract signed, which is just over a 10 percent increase for the new contract year.

The new Salt Shed at Locust

is complete and ready for deliveries for the winter season. Discussion was held concerning being more judicious with the ice control materials to maximize the use of them on the roads.

Rissman noted, “The main location for ice control is at intersections, curves, hills, but we don’t have to put it on straight stretches, people need to drive for the weather too to save on excess materials needed.”

Rissman and Jeff Kuboushek both reported on the loss of a maintainer for the crews in the near-term. While the machine was meant to be traded in once the new maintainer came in December, the transmission in machine 111 has failed and repair estimates have ticked up well over the $37,000 mark. When asked if the county should consider overhauling the engine as well, Rissman stated it may not be worth the extra cost to fix it.

He added he had been in touch with Ziegler CAT, the company taking the machine as trade-in, to determine a new trade-in value due to the transmission repair.

Kuboushek reported the same machine had already had two hydraulic pump repairs in its more than 10-year life span, and that the repair shop had reported a potential issue with the differential as well, which was estimated in the mid-to-upper $30,000 repair range. The county does have use of a loaner maintainer during the time machine 111 is in the shop.

at 401 West Broadway in Decorah is again offering its “After Dark” series.

David Faldet will present “Knocks and Voices in the Dark: Seances, Spiritualism, and Decorah” Thursday, Oct. 19, at 7 p.m. Pre-registration is required due to limited seating. Go to porterhousemuseum.org and click on “Events” to register.

Richard Merritt will present “Transmutation of Spirits: The Mindreading Craze in the Por-

David Faldet

Richard Merritt

ter Era” to an already-full house Friday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m.

Free-will offerings will be ac-

During its monthly meeting Monday, Oct. 9, Decorah Planning & Zoning Commission discussed the pending sale of city-owned property near the high school softball diamond and corner of Claiborne and Heivly Streets.

Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken spoke with the committee regarding the sale and explained that Decorah Community School District is purchasing the land with a closing date for the purchase set for Nov. 3.

The pending land for sale is comprised of the Decorah High

School softball field (small ball diamond closer to the dike on Goose Island Drive), land that makes up the left field and third base line of DHS baseball field (the field closer to Claiborne Drive), city ball diamond #2 (between Heivly and Clairborne Streets, adjacent to tennis courts), the adjacent gravel parking lot/recycling lot, one full tennis court closest to diamond #2, and one half of the next tennis court adjacent to the full court.

According to City Attorney John Anderson, the property is being purchased by DCSD for $1.975 million, and includes all previously-listed properties as

Northeast Iowa Community College President Herbert H.J. Riedel has been placed on paid administrative leave from his position, effective immediately and until further notice, fol- Herbert H.J. Riedel lowing a special NICC Board of Trustees meeting Monday, Oct. 9. Per the agenda, the meeting resulted in three closed sessions concerning personnel matters that included the college’s Human Resource Executive Director and an unidentified employee complaint involving the president.

Representatives from the col-

lege did not specify a reason for placing Riedel on administrative leave but stated that the college would maintain its normal operations during his leave.

“We understand the importance of stability and leadership during this time and will provide more information in the coming days. We want to assure our students, partners and the community that NICC is dedicated to providing high-quality education, superior workforce training and a supportive learning environment,” stated David Dahms, NICC vice president for finance and administration.

The response from Tara Cooley, NICC Public Relations and Social Media Manager, noted the college “has no further comment at this time.”

well as all the utilities that run through the properties.

Also included in the agreement is that the city be allowed to continue to use the athletic facilities and fields, including the facilities the city is conveying to the school, for the next 50 years.

The city’s intention with the recent purchase of 30 acres near the dog park on Old Stage Road is to construct ball fields on that space.

“There are at least five ball diamonds’ worth of space there,” explained Goedken, adding that site plans for the land are still in discussion. Tentatively, Goedken said DCSD will pay

for fields and courts and the city will pay for lighting.

P&Z member Marla Klocke asked if the city planned to reuse as many materials as possible, and Goedken said that any equipment and material would be repurposed wherever feasible.

The P&Z Commission unanimously approved the sale of the land. Additionally, in a special meeting held Tuesday, October 10, Decorah Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the land sale and approved 6-0. The closing date for the purchase is November 3, and a public hearing to discuss the disposition of the land is set for October 16 at 5:45pm at City Hall.

Supervisors tackle public hearings Letter

By Kate Klimesh

The Winneshiek County Supervisors Monday, Oct. 9, saw several public hearings on the agenda, along with a brief discussion on flood insurance.

A public hearing was scheduled for a requested vacation of Conover Road for Monday, Oct. 30, at 10:30 a.m., in the Courthouse Annex Building. Resident Devin Creek has requested vacation of the road right-ofway that currently cuts through a corner of his front yard. The lines have moved over the years and the edge is now through the western edge of his property.

The public hearing on the sale of land-locked, county-owned lots in Spillville was held Monday, with no public comment received. Following

the hearing, two bids on the property were opened – one bid for just one parcel and another bid with prices for each parcel.

The supervisors unanimously approved accepting the highest bid received for each parcel.

Spillville residents Jerry and Faith Lacey were awarded the first parcel No. 141942600200 with a bid of $2,103, while Spillville’s Andrew Hackman was awarded the second parcel No. 141942600100 with a bid of $1,251. Upon payment for the parcels, the board authorized Supervisor Dan Langreck to sign Quit Claim Deeds on both parcels.

Flood insurance discussion The supervisors also discussed flood insurance as an

Law Enforcement Decorah Police Decorah Police received a call for service to Walmart for a shoplifting incident Oct. 5 at 10:17 p.m.

Officers spoke with Walmart Asset Protection, and the suspect in the incident Subsequently, Francisca Demetrio Garcia, 45, of Postville, was given a summons to appear for theft, 5th degree, and released to her husband. Decorah Police Department was assisted by Winneshiek County Dispatch in the incident.

Decorah Police conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Iowa Highway 9 and Old Stage Road Sept. 30 at approximately 12:14 a.m. After further investigation, it was determined the driver was operating while under the influence. Subsequently, Lynn Roger Henning, 53, of Decorah, was placed under arrest for operating while under the influence (OWI), 1st offense. Henning was transported to Winneshiek County

Jail without incident. Decorah Police Department was assisted by Winneshiek County Dispatch and Winneshiek County Jail staff in the incident.

Decorah Police Officers conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of West Water Street/ College Drive Sept. 17 at approximately 2:12 a.m. Upon further investigation, Officers determined the driver to be operating while under the influence. Officers collected evidence from the driver to be sent to the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation Laboratory for chemical testing. The driver was transported to her residence and released, at that time. On Sept.

29 at approximately 7 p.m. the officers working this case received the results of the chemical testing.

Subsequently, on Sept. 30, Carlee Marie Meyer, 32, of Decorah was given a summons to appear for operating while under the influence (OWI), 1st offense. Meyer was re-

performance and psychological spectacles in historical perspective. He will also perform some of the experiences/illusions of mind-to-mind communication using showmanship and techniques of “parlor magic and mentalism.”

Both presentations are suitable for adult audiences. For more information or with questions, contact John at info@porterhousemuseum.org.

NICC President Riedel placed Obituary on administrative leave Verna Sand

P&Z reviews, approves pending city land sale

By Denise Lana

ments follow both programs in the museum dining room.

Faldet’s talk on Thursday looks at the wide public interest in contact with the world of the dead in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including leading public figures, significant popular movements, stage shows, movies, infamous hoaxes – and at least one prominent Decorah family.

Merrit’s presentation on Friday introduces 19th and ear-

upcoming agenda item. The county currently does not have a flood program in place and does not require flood insurance for properties in floodplains.

Supervisors in the future will discuss whether to authorize a flood program in the county, allowing properties to get flood insurance and be eligible for FEMA funding in a disaster situation. This may restrict public and private land use within the floodplain per the updated flood map and that existing properties within the floodplain may be required to take out flood insurance to remain in that location.

The deadline for deciding on the flood program is February 2024. Watch upcoming agendas for future discussions on this issue.

leased from the Law Enforcement Center after speaking with officers and receiving her paperwork. Decorah Police Department was assisted by Winneshiek County Dispatch with this incident.

Winneshiek Sheriff Brennan Wohlers, 25, of Morris, Minn., turned himself into the Winneshiek County Jail Oct. 2 on an arrest warrant for assault with intent to commit sex abuse – no injury; burglary, 2nd degree, weapon or explosive; and attempt burglary, 2nd degree – weapon or explosive.

Drake Folkedahl, 26, of Decorah, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail Sept.

26 on an arrest warrant for failure to appear.

Bryce Hoyme, 30, of Decorah, was arrested on Nordic Hills Road in Decorah Sept. 29 at 12:13 a.m., and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail for operating while under the influence.

Save the taxpayers, move the school?

In light of the upcoming city council’s public hearing regarding the possible sale of city land to the Decorah Community School Board, additional options should have been entertained to also avoid support of the fiduciary responsibilities of council and board members.

One option that should have been considered: Build a new elementary school on the Dahlen property. Do not move any of the existing sports programs. This would be a savings to the taxpayer as new sports facilities would not have to be constructed. Thus, the school board should purchase the Dahlen land, and the city would not enter into any agreements.

Traffic congestion could be a problem at different times during the day, but if the entire community would work together and make slight adjustments in the workday schedule, it could definitely work. This would be a great savings to the taxpayer. That savings could then be used to fund more affordable housing.

It appears Oct. 16 is the date of the public hearing. It is important that every voice is heard. Although there are needs on every level, this is about all of us.

Laurie Worcester, Decorah

A Celebration of Life Service for Verna Sand will be held Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, at 1 p.m., at First Lutheran Church in Decorah.

On Saturday, Sept. 9, Verna passed away peacefully in her Verna Sand sleep.

She was 96 years old. A lifelong native of northeast Iowa, she was well-loved by all who knew her selfless embrace and love of others. Verna always put you first, never expecting or asking anything in return. She was willing to be with you in silliness or sorrow. She made time for everyone, no matter her situation – always the consummate host for extended family get-togethers and short notice cinnamon rolls and coffee.

Verna Kathleen Amdahl was born Oct. 28, 1926, the daughter of John and Mae Amdahl who farmed near Ossian. She married Robert J. Sand, also from a farming family near Ossian, in 1948. They settled in Decorah where they raised a family and remained there for the rest of their lives.

Verna was educated at Luther College and taught second and third graders in McGregor. She loved teaching and continued doing so with her own children. From her they learned to be grateful and gracefully accept what was given. Like her father and mother before her, she found refuge in Christ and followed his teaching.

She became an integral part of her grandchildren’s lives, who treasure the love she gave them. Seven great grandchildren will learn of her influence on their parent’s lives and, in this way, her memory lives on.

As for the world and its ever present danger and troubles, she would only say, “Sometimes the best we can do is love our neighbor.”

And when we said, “I love you, Mom”, she would always say, “I love you more” and that was always the truth.

She is survived by their five children: Alan (Cara), Kevin (Leslie), Daniel (Carole), Robyn Sand Anderson (Jon), and Douglas (Ronda). Her husband Robert passed away in 2005.

Memorials can be given to Aase Haugen Home or First Lutheran Church, Decorah.

Service Notices Auction Calendar CARL SVENSON, 86, of Decorah, passed away Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023, at his home. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Oct. 14, at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church located at 604 W. Broadway Street in Decorah with Rev. David Severtson presiding. Burial will be at a later date in the Lutheran Cemetery with military rites. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday at the church. A reception and meal will follow the service at the Decorah Fire Station at 400 Claiborne Drive in Decorah.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14 9:30 a.m. Charlie McClintok estate.

Real Estate, household, and shop.

402 Center St, Elgin, IA. Monroe Auction Service, 563-864-7346. www.smedrealty.com/monroe-auctions. Like us on Facebook.

SANDRA ALBERTSON, 85, of Ridgeway, died Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023, at Wellington Place in Decorah. Funeral services will be held Thursday, Oct. 12, at 11 a.m., at Peace Lutheran Church located at 745 County Street in Ridgeway with Rev. Nathan Wicks presiding. Burial will be in the Lincoln Cemetery, Ridgeway.

Holiday Happiness

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 8:30 a.m. Machinery Consignment.

Sale Held At Sweeney Auction Center, Waukon, IA. Sweeney Auction Service. www.sweeneyauctionservice.com Waukon. 563-5682464.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Guns & Sporting Goods. Sale held at Sweeney Auction Center Waukon, IA. Sweeney Auction Service. www.sweeneyauctionservice.com Waukon. 563-568-2464.

Pop Up Shop Saturday,

October 21 11am-2pm

Crafters, Vendors

& Bakers

No Early Sales

at The Mint & The Place in Protivin

Decorah Public Opinion

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Public Notices IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DAVID S. REIS DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016244 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of David S. Reis, Deceased, who died on or about September 18, 2023: You are hereby notified that on September 26, 2023, the Last Will and Testament of David S. Reis, deceased, bearing date of January 9, 2018, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Anthony J Tallman 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: September 29, 2023. /s/ Anthony J Tallman Anthony J Tallman, Executor of Estate 617 Gillette Ave Cresco, IA 52136 /s/ Kevin E. Schoeberl Kevin E. Schoeberl, ICIS#: AT0006991 Attorney for Executor Story, Schoeberl & Seebach, LLP 126 N. Elm St. PO Box 89 Cresco, IA 52136 Date of second publication: October 12, 2023 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion October 5 & 12, 2023 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD D. STEFFANS DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016243 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Donald D. Steffans, Deceased, who died on or about September 15, 2023: You are hereby notified that on September 27, 2023, the Last Will and Testament of Donald D. Steffans, deceased, bearing date of June 5, 2001, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Melissa S. Moeller and Michael W. Steffans 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 September 27, 2023.

Melissa S. Moeller, Executor of Estate P.O. Box 49 Monona, IA 52159 Michael W. Steffans, Executor of Estate 602 Howard Street Calmar, Iowa 52132 Nicholas W. Erickson, ICIS#: AT0010916 Attorney for Executors Erickson Law Office 127 S. Lawler Street Postville, IA 52162-0118 Date of second publication: October 12, 2023 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion October 5 & 12, 2023 October 2, 2023 The regular meeting was called to order by Mayor Borowski at 5:45 PM. The meeting was held at the Decorah Council Chambers and electronically.

The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Members present: Ross Hadley, Kirk Johnson, Steve Luse, Randy Schissel, Kirsten Olson, Emily Neal, and Steve Zittergruen Consent agenda was presented. a. Minutes of the September 18 and September 25, 2023, Meetings

b. Claims c. Tax Abatement at 312 East Street-Dean and Teresa McCabe-New Garage d. Renewal of Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service-Skyline Lanes, LLC e. Amendment of Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service-Skyline Lanes, LLC f. Appointment of Brian Erickson to the Tree Board Luse made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented, Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

Mayor Borowski opened the public hearing at 5:53 PM on the plans, specifications, form of contract, and taking bids for the Decorah 2023 Miller Park Recreational Trail Improvement Project. Jeremy Bril, the city engineer, gave an overview of what is being proposed and bid out. No public comment.

Mayor Borowski closed the public hearing at 5:54 PM. Hadley made a motion to approve Resolution 3390 which approves the base bid plus alternate #1 and alternate #3 from Skyline Construction in the amount of $113,111.50 for Miller Recreational Trail Improvement Project. Alternate #1 is paving the trail in concrete and Alternate #3 is sidewalk work and removing of the retaining wall. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes.

Motion carried.

Luse made a motion to approve the second reading of Ordinance 1319 which amends the official zoning map of the City of Decorah in Title 17, Section 17.60.020 of the Municipal Code of the City of Decorah to change the zoning classification from A-1 Agricultural District to C-1 Highway Commercial District for a parcel of real estate owned by Decorah Jobs, Inc. Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried. Luse made a motion to waive the third reading of Ordinance 1319 and adopt the change in zoning classification, Zittergruen seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Luse, Zittergruen, Hadley, Neal, Schissel, Johnson, Olson.

Nays: None. Motion carried.

Luse made a motion to approve Resolution 3391 proposing sale of city owned property in the vicinity of Decorah High School Softball Diamond and the corner of Claiborne Drive and Heivly Street and setting a date for a public hearing on the sale of city owned property which is to be held October 16, 2023. Neal seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Luse, Neal, Johnson, Hadley, Olson, Zittergruen. Nays: Schissel. Motion carried.

Zittergruen made a motion to approve Resolution 3392 to approve the installation of stop signs at the intersection of Broadway Street and Winnebago Street. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Zittergruen, Olson, Luse, Hadley, Johnson. Nays: Neal and Schissel. Motion carried.

City Engineer, Jeremy Bril, led a discussion with council on possibly installing an accessible parking stall on Winnebago Street.

This change would help the buses make their turn onto Winnebago Street and yet be used as a handicap parking stall on Sundays. The council indicated that they would consider such a change through resolution. Bril will move forward with creating the resolution.

Bril also spoke about transitioning Franklin Street and Jefferson Street to one sided parking due to the difficulty of vehicles getting through the streets when vehicles are parked on both sides. This also leads to challenges of snow removal on these two streets. Bril suggests creating one-sided parking on Franklin Street between Broadway and Grove and between Broadway to Mill for Jefferson Street.

Again, the council indicated that they would be interested in a resolution that would make this change.

Zittergruen made a motion to award Upper Explorerland the proposal for the November 27, 2023, goal setting session in the amount of $2,100.00. Olson seconded the motion.

Roll call vote. All voting ayes. Motion carried.

City Engineer Bril presented a two-year plan for the FY ‘25 Street Improvement Plan.

The plan would enable the Street Department to work on smaller projects in the first year and then a complete reconstruction of Heivly Street in year two. This would allow the funds to build up a year to help cover the costs that would be incurred in year two. The council came to a consensus to move forward with this plan.

Mayor Borowski announced that the city will be taking applications for the Telecommunications Utility Board until October 31, 2023.

Meeting adjourned at 6:48 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Monday, October 2, 2023 Payroll, Payroll For 9-29-23 ........ 200,311.96 Connell Flying , September 2023 Service Contract ..3,683.31 Delta Dental, October 2023 Dental .. 1,191.10 Postmaster, Bulk Mailing .................... 397.54 Skyline Const, Street Improvement.................... 236,718.85 Yaneff, Nick, Reimbursement ............ 204.69 Viking Realtors, Earnest Money .... 10,000.00 Ace Hardware, Office Supplies............. 13.99 Aia Services, Clothing ..................... 1,616.00 Alliant Energy, Electric Bills .............. 267.78 Al’s Counrty Meat Locker, Resale Products .................................141.05 Amazon, Books ..................................... 86.73 Anderson Wilmarth Van Der Maatten,

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Legal Fees ......................................6,672.00 Baker & Taylor, Books.....................2,859.75 Black Hills Energy, Gas Bills ..........2,084.04 Bodensteiner Implement, Skid Loader ..................................47,016.35 Bremer, Louann, Cleaning ............... 1,000.00 Brownells, Equipment........................... 55.98 Bruening Rock Products, Rock ..........564.52 Capital One, Office Supplies...............236.55 Casper Plbg & Htg, Services ........... 1,510.39 Copyland, Reservation Cards..............335.75 Croell, Sidewalk Repairs .................... 728.25 Culligan, Bottle Exchange ...................... 8.50 Dalco, Office Supplies ........................872.55 Decorah Auto Center, Parts ................... 30.74 Decorah Electric, Services .................. 492.40 Decorah Tire Service, Services ............. 46.50 Dell Marketing, Computer ...............3,432.21 Drake Folkedahl, Sidewalk .............. 3,525.00 Driftless Multimedia, Publishing ........597.68 Driftless Yoga Center/Reefuel, Programming.....................................150.00 Driveway Specialist, Mechanic St Patch..........................4,350.00 Erdman Engineering, Centrum Easement ............................671.75 Ess Brothers And Sons, Manhole Frames.............................3,773.00 Fareway Stores, Program Supplies .........6.72 First Supply, Parts ............................1,384.66 Fisk Farm And Home, Shop Supplies .657.82 Grafix Shoppe, Vehicle Grafix ............536.04 Hahn, Logan, Reimbursement ............192.28 Hawkins, Supplies............................ 2,534.65 Ia Dept Of Transportation, Asphalt Emulsion .............................. 453.00 Icap, 2023 Insurance ........................... 919.00 Impact Coffee, Program Expense ......... 42.50 Iowa Dept. Of Natural Resources, Fees ................................................... 290.00 Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, Training ...............................................85.00 Iowa One Call, Services ..................... 215.20 Iowa Police Chiefs Association, Conference Registration...................... 60.00 Iroc Web Design Services, Website Update ...................................45.00 John Deere Financial, Supplies ............. 88.72 Kanopy, Film Database ....................... 139.00 Keystone Lab, Water Test ...................156.50 Kirchner Collision, Services ...............738.00 Klosterboer, John, Ice Cave ...........10,272.50 Malcom, Garbage ..................................65.50 Mcartor, Mallory, Reimbursement ..... 148.88 Mcdonald Supply, Sump Pump........... 379.67 Mcmaster-Carr, Street Sweeper Parts .........................442.12 Midland Scientific, Equipment ............. 81.88 Mississippi Welders, Fire Extinguisher Inspection .........1,171.28 Moen, Blake, Reimbursement ............ 178.28 Mower Power, Chainsaw Repair......... 130.91 Napa, Shop Supplies ............................... 9.52 Nbs Calibrations, Calibration Of Thermometers ........... 120.00 Ness Pumping, Septic Pumping .......... 300.00 Nimrod, Andy, Reimbursement ........... 57.76 Olsgard Auto, Truck Allignment ........... 93.26 Olson Explosives, Fuel ....................... 752.47 Overdrive, Ebooks & Audiobooks ...... 942.14 Perry Novak Electric, Services ........ 1,318.73 Peters Construction, Contract Work. 2,211.47 Petty Cash, Postage ............................... 32.23 Pitney Bowes, Postage ........................ 141.05 Quality Striping, Painted Lines ...... 22,950.00 Reiser Implement, Filters For Mini Excavator ................ 152.90 Reticulated Stone, Steyer Bridge ..... 5,500.00 Ricoh, Copies ..................................... 159.54 River City Paving, Asphalt ..............3,096.90 Riverland Expressions, Shirts ............. 903.00 Road Machinery & Supplies, Flushing Pump ...............................1,903.33 Samuelson, Riley, Graphic Design .....370.00 Schwan’s, Resale Products....................75.43 Sherwin Williams, Supplies .................. 37.68 Skyline Const, Sidewalk ................. 1,694.00 Spahn & Rose Lumber, Boa Signs........ 23.02 Steve’s Car Care, Wash .........................71.25 Storey Kenworthy, Office Supplies.. 4,072.66 The Des Moines Register, Annual Fee 545.04 Tollefson, Jim, Janitorial Services ..... 160.00 Treestuff.Com, Supplies...................... 126.22 Ups, Shipping Charges..........................28.74 Usa Blue Book, Services.....................284.38 Uw-Madison, Registration ..................121.50 Vandekrol, Scott, Reimbursement ......151.94 Voltmer, Sign Installation.................... 500.00 Voss Signs, Signs ................................250.00 Windridge Implements, Backhoe Oil.. 140.32 Windstream, Phone Bills....................... 37.54 Winn Co. San. Landfill, Deer ..................4.50 Winn. Co. Treasurer, Airport Prop Tax .50.00 Wise Welding And Fabrication, Repair For Log Spliter ...................... 150.00 Ziegler, Services...............................1,665.00 Zittergruen, Steven, Reimbursement . 481.47 Zoho Corporation, Manage Engine Desktop Central ... 1,926.00 Revenue To Date September 29, 2023 General Fund............................. 1,332,871.33 Local Option Sales Tax ................369,095.04 Road Use Fund............................. 288,916.74 Employee Benefits ....................... 399,811.64 Hotel/Motel .................................... 93,945.21 Ssmid.............................................. 67,669.77 Park Special Gifts ............................ 3,148.71 Library Special Gifts ........................ 2,375.98 Street Equip Fund ............................ 4,050.56 Debt Service Fund........................276,733.13 Special Projects .............................. 44,177.90 Water Utility Fund ....................... 336,736.09 Sewer Utility Fund ....................... 383,688.99 Enterprise Project Interest ................ 3,092.05 Metronet .........................................37,839.00 Forest Utility .................................. 30,166.69 Storm Sewer Utility ....................... 34,079.35 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion October 12, 2023 The Spillville City Council held the regular meeting at the Spillville City Hall at 6:00 PM. on Tuesday, October 3, 2023. Mayor Straube called the meeting to order with the following councilmen present Kelsay, Taylor and Wermers. Absent, Backes and Schmitt.

Motion by Wermers, second by Kelsay to approve items on the consent agenda as follows.

A. Approval of minutes of previous meetings B. Claims C. Finance Reports Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays, none. Motion Carried.

Received the Clocks report.

Received a street project update.

Water Project – Marc Ruden was present to discuss the 3 bids received for geotechnical analysis and progress on the water project.

They are on track to apply for permitting in December.

Motion by Kelsay, second by Taylor to accept the low bid of $7800 received from Braun Intertec for Geotechnical Evaluation and authorize the mayor to sign all necessary contracts. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous.

Nays, none. Motion Carried.

Received the library and Clocks reports.

The city will not be putting in a bid for two small parcels of county owned land in the city limits.

Discussed parking and enforcement. City code prohibits parking on city streets of vehicles over 10,000 lbs. except while unloading or delivering. There is also a 48-hour limit on anything parked on the streets. We are asking that residents voluntarily adhere to these codes in the best interest and safety of everyone in the community. The city has the authority to issue citations for illegal parking and/or have vehicles towed if this becomes necessary.

We are in the process of getting signatures for the property annexation east of town.

Mayor Straube appointed Backes, Kelsay, Mike Klimesh and himself to a hiring committee. The city has received four applications for the clerk position, the committee will conduct interviews and bring their recommendations to the council at the November meeting for a final decision by the council.

Floodplain Ordinance – Tabled Motion by Kelsay, second by Taylor to adopt Resolution 23-10-1 setting the policy for returned checks. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays, none. Motion Carried.

Bids were received for Sanitation Service from Hawkeye Sanitation and Shimek Sanitation.

Motion by Taylor, second by Wermers to accept the bid from Shimek Sanitation. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays, none. Motion Carried.

Motion by Wermers, second by Kelsay to adopt Resolution 23-10-2 authorizing the mayor to sign a 3-year contract with Shimek Sanitation for residential sanitation services.

Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays, none.

Motion Carried.

Received the mayors report. Trick or Treating in Spillville will be Tuesday, October 31 from 6-8 p.m. He is working on grants for park rest rooms and showers and an addition to the park shelter.

Motion by Kelsay, second by Taylor to adjourn. Roll call vote: unanimous. Motion Carried.

Fund, Income, Distribution General, $19767.24, $14869.94 Clocks, $5541.19, $4957.81

Library Trust , $27.43, $7075.06 Campground, $1146.29, $3064.99 Road Use, 3553.64, $7789.71 LOST, 5588.74, $0 Debt Service, $2780.84, $0 Capitol, $0, $0 Water, $7888.15, $27039.02 Water Deposit, $250.00, $0 Sewer, $4143.06, $6527.11 The meeting adjourned at 7:56.

Attest: Joane Kulish, City Clerk September Claims Type, Date, Num, Name, Memo, Amount Check, 09/05/2023, 22034, GESING, KATHY, Payroll ...........-1,333.09 Check, 09/05/2023, 22037, SHIMEK SANITATION, Sanitation Contract........................-3,361.70 Check, 09/05/2023, 22038, Origin Design, Water Engineering.......................-18,648.50 Check, 09/05/2023, 22039, UPPER EXPLORERLAND RPC, Dues .........-25.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22040, D & K PRODUCTS, Flowers ......................-159.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22041, LA COMMUNICATIONS, INC, Event Advertising.............................-125.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22042, IROC WEB DESIGN SERVICES, Clocks Website ...................................-45.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22043, MISSISSIPPI WELDERS SUPPLY, Shop Equipment ...............................-103.71 Check, 09/05/2023, 23-9-5-1EP, US CELLULAR, Alarm Autodialer/Cell Phone ...........-153.12 Check, 09/05/2023, 22044, WINNESHIEK COUNTY ENGINEER, Snow Removal Supplies ..................-237.42 Check, 09/05/2023, 22045, IOWA LEAGUE OF CITIES, DUES..........-449.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22046, EUROPEAN HERITAGE GIFTS, Museum Souvenirs...........................-104.95 Check, 09/05/2023, 22047, PENFIELD BOOKS, Clocks Souvenirs ..............-225.16 Check, 09/05/2023, 22048, Woodland Designs, Inc, Clocks Repairs ...........-350.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 23-9-5-2EP, ALLIANT, Electricity ...................-2,698.37 Check, 09/05/2023, 23-9-5-3EP, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones ...-62.95 Check, 09/05/2023, 23-9-5-4EP, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones .-117.48 Check, 09/05/2023, 23-9-5-5EP, CENTURYLINK, City Telephones .-126.63 Check, 09/05/2023, 22049, HAWKINS, INC, Water-Supplies ........................-439.97 Check, 09/05/2023, 22050, FARMERS UNION COOPERATIVE, Fuel ....-1,255.26 Check, 09/05/2023, 23-9-5-6EP, MEDIACOM, Clocks Internet Access .......................-94.97 Check, 09/05/2023, 23-9-5-7EP, FENCL OIL & LP CO., Library LP ...........-1,549.60 Check, 09/05/2023, 22051, DRIFTLESS MULTIMEDIA, Publications ..........-333.25 Check, 09/05/2023, 22052, GRAFTON PUBLIC LIBRARY, Library Video .....-5.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22053, MPLC, Video MPLC License .......................-158.02 Check, 09/05/2023, 22054, STATE LIBRARY OF IOWA, Library Bridges E-Book Subscription ..........................-20.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22055, Microbac Laboratories, Inc, Water/SewerTesting .........................-178.75 Check, 09/05/2023, 22056, Marv Smith Electric, Plbg & Htg, Water & Park Repairs....................-3,998.49 Check, 09/05/2023, 22057, TURKEY RIVER LAWN CARE, Flowers & Lagoon ...........................-175.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22058, RACHEL MURPHY, Clocks Souvenirs ...........-239.00 Check, 09/05/2023, 22059, HUBER’S STORE, Shop Supplies ........................-6.35 Check, 09/05/2023, 23-9-5-8EP, JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL, City Maintenance & Repair .............-250.68 Check, 09/05/2023, 22060, BOHR, DANIEL A, Payroll..........................-139.42 Check, 09/05/2023, 22061, DRIFTLESS SECURITY, Library Alarm Upgrade .................-3,180.70 Check, 09/08/2023, 23-9-5-9EP, VISA, City CC/Maintenance &Supplies.....-321.47 Check, 09/11/2023, 23-9-5-10EP, IPERS, IPERS ...............................-1,857.85 Check, 09/11/2023, 23-9-5-11EP, United States Treasury, Payroll Taxes.......-2,793.84 Check, 09/11/2023, 23-9-5-12EP, IOWA DEPT OF REV & FINANCE, Water Tax $449.72 ...........................-449.72 Check, 09/11/2023, 23-9-5-14EP, IOWA DEPT OF REV & FINANCE, Sales Tax ................-508.49 Check, 09/18/2023, 22062, Winneshiek Co Historic Preservation Comm, Clocks Staff Development ....-30.00 Check, 09/18/2023, 22063, CITIZENS SAVINGS BANK, Loane 0393 ....-7,117.68 Check, 09/18/2023, 22064, CITIZENS SAVINGS BANK, Loan 1114 ......-5,587.30 Check, 09/30/2023, 22066, Craft, Susanna-Virginia, Payroll ...-1,756.53 Check, 09/30/2023, 22067, Elsbernd, Sandra A, Payroll .............-346.21 Check, 09/30/2023, 22068, KELSAY, STEVEN, Payroll...............................-73.88 Check, 09/30/2023, 22069, KNUTSON, ELLIEROSE, Payroll.........................-46.18 Check, 09/30/2023, 22070, KUHN, RUTH, Payroll .................................-760.78 Check, 09/30/2023, 22071, KULISH, JOANE, Payroll............-1,375.35 Check, 09/30/2023, 22072, LUTGEN, ADDISON, Payroll ............................-46.18 Check, 09/30/2023, 22073, LUTGEN, MAKINLEY, Payroll .........................-87.74 Check, 09/30/2023, 22074, PHILLIPS, LARRY J, Payroll .........................-4,772.31 Check, 09/30/2023, 22076, Shatek, Lori, Payroll .....................................-272.43 Check, 09/30/2023, 22078, TAYLOR, JOHN, Payroll ..................-55.41 Check, 09/30/2023, 22079, WERMERS, PAUL L, Payroll.................................-55.36 Check, 09/30/2023, 22065, Backes, Reed, Payroll ........................-73.88 Check, 09/30/2023, 22075, Schmitt, Darrell G, Payroll ................-73.88 Check, 09/30/2023, 22077, STRAUBE, THOMAS A, Payroll........................-184.70 Check, 09/30/2023, 22080, GESING, KATHY, Payroll ............................-1,027.86 Check, 09/30/2023, 22081, PHILLIPS, LARRY J, Payroll .........................-1,095.02 Check, 09/30/2023, CITIZENS SAVINGS BANK, Service Charge ........................-1.60 .......................................................-71,122.19 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion October 12, 2023

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Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, October 12, 2023 5

School board

Decorah Schools has the following positions available for the 2023-2024 school year:

Decorah Community School Board held its first regularly-scheduled monthly meeting Monday night at the new District Administrative Office east of Decorah. Pictured (l-r) are school board members Brian Petersburg, Cindy Goodner, Ron Fadness, Superintendent Tim Cronin and board members Ben Lage and John Hjelle. Some new faces will be added to the board next month, as school board elections are scheduled Nov. 7. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Roz Weis) continuing their border agreements.

“This issue is fraught with emotions,” he stated. “We had a unique situation here.”

School calendar revision Board members voted to designate Friday, May 25, as an additional snow makeup day in case the district exceeds the allotted number of cancellations.

WHEREAS, a Notice of the time and place of the public hearing on said request has been published pursuant to law; and WHEREAS, public hearings as required have been conducted by both the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, has found that the proposed zoning is in conformance with the City Comprehensive Plan, Iowa Code 414.3, and is in the public interest.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa as follows: 1.The official zoning map of the City of Decorah, Iowa, set forth in Title 17, Section 17.60.020 of the Municipal Code of the City of Decorah, be amended to change the zoning classification as to the following described real estate: The Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter lying North of Iowa State Highway #9 and Lot B of the North Half of the Southwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter, as per Plat recorded in Plat Book Non Page 671; all in Section 25, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M., in Winneshiek County, Iowa. (See attached exhibit) Property Owners Decorah Jobs Inc. 507 West Water Street

Decorah, Iowa 52101 from A-1 Agricultural District to C-1 Highway Commercial District.

2.That the zoning map of the City of Decorah, Iowa, be amended to reflect this change.

3.This Ordinance shall become effective after its passage and publication as required by law.

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

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

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

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of October, 2023.

CITY OF DECORAH, IOWA Lorraine Borowski, Mayor Date of First Reading: September 19, 2023 Date of Second Reading: October 2, 2023 Roll Call Vote: Councilmen Voting Aye: Luse, Neal, Schissel, Olson, Zittergruen, Johnson, Hadley Councilmen Voting Nay: ATTEST: I, Keri Sand, City Clerk of the City of Decorah, Iowa, hereby certify that at a meeting of the City Council of said City of Decorah, held on the above date, among other proceedings, the above was adopted.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this 2ND of October, 2023.

Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer

Public Notices ORDINANCE NO.1319 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF DECORAH, IOWA, SET FORTH IN TITLE 17, SECTION 17.60.020 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF DECORAH, TO CHANGE THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION FROM A-1 AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT TO C-1 HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL DISTRICT FOR A PARCEL OF REAL ESTATE OWNED BY DECORAH JOBS INC. WHEREAS, Decorah Jobs Inc. owns the following real estate: The Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter lying North of Iowa State Highway #9 and Lot B of the North Half of the Southwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter, as per Plat recorded in Plat Book N on Page 671; all in Section 25, Township 98 North, Range 8 West of the 5th P.M., in Winneshiek County, Iowa. (See attached exhibit) (the “Real Estate”); and WHEREAS, Decorah Jobs Inc. requests a change in zoning for the Real Estate from A-1 Agricultural District to C-1 Highway Commercial District in order to promote a buildable commercial site in compliance with Chapter 17.88 C-1 Highway Commercial District; and

8th Grade Boys Basketball Coach Two (2) Full Time Custodians Carrie Lee Food Service Kitchen Manager (7-1)

Board members also voted 5-1 in favor of embracing a virtual instruction option for late starts and early dismissals due to weather-related issues. Board member John Hjelle voted against the motion.

Cronin said there are an average of 5.77 weather-related closures each school year for the Decorah district, and about three late starts and three early dismissals due to weather.

During those late starts and early dismissals, teachers would have the option of offering virtual instruction for those hours.

He explained the benefits of the concept, which include striking a balance between ensuring instructional continuity and accommodating inclement weather disruptions effectively.

He added that faculty would not implement the option without more opportunities for teacher input.

(teacher associate)

Sub Bus Drivers (route & activities)

Send letter of application and resume to Supt. Tim Cronin, 510 Winnebago Street, Decorah, IA 52101 by end of the day on October 26, 2023.

NOW HIRING!

SERVERS OR SHIFT LEAD

Day shifts mostly and some weekend shifts (PT or FT)

COOKS

Prep and Line experience preferred, but willing to train (PT or FT) Apply within or send resume to: tbocks@mchsi.com 206 W. Water Street, Decorah 41-4-JP-12

Decorah Schools has the following positions available for the 2023-2024 school year:

MS Wrestling Coach 7th Gr. Girls Asst.

Basketball Coach 8th Gr. Girls Asst.

Basketball Coach 7th Gr. Boys Track & Field Coach 8th Gr. Boys Asst.

Track & Field Coach 7th Gr. Girls Asst.

Track & Field Coach 8th Gr. Girls Track & Field Coach HS Asst. Wrestling Coach HS Asst. Girls Basketball Coach

Cards of Thanks

Thank You

Dave and I thank all of you for the wonderful birthday wishes, notes, cards and those who joined us for a celebration of 80 years on this earth. We appreciate all of you so much.

Thanks again.

- Dave & Jill Amdahl

41-1-P-pd-15

Other action The board took action on several issues Monday night.

• Board members accepted an approximate $9,000 settlement from a class action settlement with Altria (JUUL e-cigarette litigation).

• A start date of January 2024 was approved to begin working with the Donovan Group, a school district communication, marketing and public relations firm on bond referendum details for a proposed elementary school. Cost is set at approximately $2,500 per month.

• The purchase of two new frozen yogurt soft-serve freezer units was approved at a cost of $31,184.82 from McCormack Distributing in LeMars. The machines will be used at the middle school and high school.

Funding was from a grant re-

ceived earlier this year and applied for by District Director of Nutrition Services Chad Elliott.

• Board members approved a contract with Traversa for a new transportation routing software system. Initial cost is $14,755, with expenditures of $3,712 over the following two years.

The program has been implemented successfully in several nearby school districts, according to Shawn Gordon, Director of Technology and Information for the district.

• The 2022-23 Transportation Report was approved, which revealed the district’s net transportation costs at $1,469,871.73.

The district transports 625 public school elementary students and 356 high school students living more than two miles from school, and an additional 47 students residing two miles or less from school. The district also transports 117 elementary students to non-public schools in the district.

The next regulary-scheduled monthly meeting is Nov. 20.

Board meetings are available to view at www.youtube. com/@DecorahTV/streams.

Join our Team

Sub Para-Professional

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continued from front the cost of $7,635 per student, it equals more than $1 million (about $200,000 per year in state aid) going out of state to Minn.

Board President Ron Fadness said he was “shocked” as the financial impact was broken down for board members.

It was noted in 2018 during the reciprocity debate that any students in DCSD could continue to attend Mabel-Canton after the five-year agreement expired, but that their tuition would be paid by their parents.

Cronin said this was a unique situation with Mabel-Canton being in such proximity to the Iowa border. In 2018, the agreement was contingent upon Iowa and Minnesota state legislatures

Help Wanted

Real Estate Rent: Nice 2-bedroom close Luther College For to hospital. Heat & hot water furnished. Laundry & car port on site. pets. No smoking. Call 1-800Woman’s Club No 250-2948. 40-6-PJ-pd-9 meet Oct. 17 Commercial Property for Rent.

Engineer. It was felt both of these options should be explored before making a decision on hiring a search firm. Auditor Steines will coordinate interview times for the two candidates and contact the surrounding County Auditors to ask their Boards and Engineers if they would consider a sharing agreement.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Kelsay to adjourn to 9:30am Monday, October 9, 2023. Motion carried unanimously.

ATTEST Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion October 12, 2023 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors of Winneshiek County, Iowa, has set the 30th day of October 2023, at 10:30 o’clock a.m. at the Board of Supervisors Office in the Winneshiek County Courthouse Annex in Decorah, Iowa, as the time and place for hearing to consider vacating that portion of THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED STREETS AND LOTS: Lot D and The East Half of Lot 8, Lots 9 through 11, Block 9, in the Town of Conover, all lying Northerly of the North Right-of-Way Line of County Road Conover Road, located in the Northeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter, of Section 15, Township 97 North, Range 9 West of the 5th P.M., Winneshiek County, Iowa, as more specifically described in a Vacation Plat filed of record on October 9, 2023 as Document No. 2023-2454 of the Winneshiek County Records; in Winneshiek County, Iowa, and conveying that property to the adjoining property owners, Devin R. Creek and Kristi L. Creek.

At said time and place, arguments for and against vacation of the subject property will be heard and considered. Any objections that are not made at the hearing will be deemed waived. By order of the Board of Supervisors

of Winneshiek County, Iowa, this the 9th day of October 2023.

Benjamin Steines, Auditor Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion October 12, 2023 In the Estate of Probate Case No. ESPR016241, in the Iowa District Court for Winneshiek County PHILIP E. GUTHRIE, Deceased NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Philip E. Guthrie, deceased, who died on June 10, 2023 You are hereby notified that on the 19th day of September 2023, the undersigned was appointed administrator of the estate.

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

Dated this 12 day of October, 2023 Kelly A. Guthrie Administrator of the Estate Benjamin T. Ruffcorn Attorney for the Administrator 224 18th Street, 4th Floor Rock Island IL 61201 309-794-1515 bruffcorn@wkclawfirm.com Date of second publication: October 19, 2023 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion October 12 & 19, 2023

Send letter of application and resume to Supt. Tim Cronin, 510 Winnebago Street, Decorah, IA 52101 by end of the day on October 26, 2023.

Maintenance Assistant / Feed Mill Assistant

Hillandale Farms LLC outside of West Union, IA Our local team is seeking a self-motivated individual for a full-time first shift Maintenance Assistant/Feed Mill Assistant.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide maintenance support in a timely, efficient manner • Responsible for basic troubleshooting, identifying issues and repair accordingly • Understand and perform routine maintenance on all processing machinery • Assisting in running the mill (grinding feed, ordering ingredients, unloading deliveries, etc.)

QUALIFICATIONS • • • • •

Must be at least 18 years old High school diploma or GED required General electrical/mechanical skills Ability to troubleshoot Able to follow instructions and perform tasks as directed • Ability to work independently • Ability to lift up to 60lbs. and be on feet for long periods of time.

We offer a good benefit package after 60 days of employment including health insurance, dental, vision, and 401K. Salary is negotiable.

To apply, send your cover letter, resume, and three references to Hillandale Farms at P.O. Box 455 West Union, IA 52175 or email abond@hillandalefarms.com.

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LOOKING FOR A REWARDING JOB? Full-time & Part-time Community Assistants FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING

to accommodate all types of work, school & social schedules. Full Circle Services offers sick, vacation and personal time to our part time staff.

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Board Minutes Monday October 2, 2023 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am October 2, 2023 with all members present.

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

Chad Wilkins, Iowa Rotocast Plastics, met with the Board to answer questions and discuss options for the county owned property next to the IRP facility, that IRP would like to purchase to facilitate the installation of a solar field. The Board will do some more research and continue to discuss options.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Faldet to approve the consent agenda which includes the minutes of the last meeting and to accept and file the quarterly report of the County Auditor. Motion carried unanimously.

The Board discussed funding for county libraries. Vermace and Langreck will work with the Library Association to update the funding agreement before budget time.

Dave Kratz met with the Board to discuss a Planning & Zoning issue he has been working on as well as the P&Z regulations for subdivisions within two miles of the City of Decorah. His specific circumstance needs City of Decorah approval before the County P&Z will take up the issue. There was discussion about that procedure, but the Iowa Code and current subdivision ordinance were clear that City approval is required.

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

The topic of the sale of property in Freeport was reviewed. The Board will need to do more research and make some decisions before taking the next steps to potentially sell the property.

Nick Rissman, Interim County Engineer, met with the Board to discuss road matters.

The Board reviewed several topics related to the hiring of a County Engineer. The consensus was to interview the two applicants they currently have as well as start inquiries with surrounding counties to research the potential of a Shared Permanent County

Great location on Water Street, Decorah. Call 563-380-4959. 412-JP-x-9

41-2-PJ-12

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • October 12, 2023

David Faldet, Luther professor emeritus of English, will present “Women, Spiritualism, and Decorah” at the next meeting of the Luther College Woman’s Club, held at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 17 in the Peace Dining Room on the Luther College campus.

Shuttle service from the Decorah Swimming Pool will be available at 1:10 p.m. In addition to the program, a short business meeting, refreshments and music are also on the agenda.

In his presentation, Faldet will explore the important role of women in spiritualism, a religious belief in the power of communication between worlds – including between the living and the dead.

DAY T HOU IME RS AVA ILAB LE! Apply at: www.fullcircleneia.applicantpro.com/jobs/

or call Jared Morriss at 563-277-2029, jared.morriss@fullcircleneia.com

Coming up in varsity sports

PAGE 6

Oct. 13 – SW fb vs. BCLUW, 7 p.m.; TV fb at Riceville, 7 p.m.; Dec fb at Epworth (WD), 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 14 – Dec vb at NEIC tnmt. (in Charles City), 9 a.m.; Dec g swim host conference (Luther), 12 p.m.

Oct. 16 – TV vb vs. Riceville (Rd. 1), 7 p.m.

Oct. 17 – Dec vb vs. Mason City (quarterfinal), 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – SW vb at Beckman Catholic (quarterfinal), 7 p.m.

Sports Editor: Becky Walz

•

THURSDAY

OCTOBER 12, 2023

DECORAH, SOUTH WINNESHIEK, TURKEY VALLEY

•

sports@decorahnewspapers.com

•

Roe, Decorah girls win NEIC title; boys second

Amelia Roe was crowned the NEIC champion Tuesday with a time of 19:37.9. (Driftless Multimedia photos by Becky Walz) Varsity girls team results 1. Decorah 43; 2. Waverly-Shell Rock 65; 3. Crestwood 68; 4.

Waukon 79; 5. New Hampton 108; 6. Charles City 160 Varsity boys team results 1. Waukon 43; 2. Decorah 51; 3.

Charles City 67; 4. Crestwood 93; 5. Waverly-Shell Rock 105; 6. New Hampton 171

The race to the postseason started with a bang for the Decorah cross country teams Tuesday, as the Vikings claimed three of the four titles and a runner-up finish.

The girls, ranked 14th in Class 3A, finished with 43 points, besting No. 20 Waverly ShellRock with 65 points. The boys, No. 15, secured second place with 51 points, behind Class 2A No. 2 Waukon who had 43.

The JV squads also did their job, sweeping their races.

Five All-NEIC The girls secured the title

with five of the seven earning all-conference honors by finishing in the top 15. They had a spread of 2:07 and the average time for the DHS runners was 21:10.

Individually, Decorah’s Amelia Roe took home the conference crown. The Viking, ranked 15th, had a time of 19:37.9.

Brinlee Courtney crossed the finish line sixth in 21:02.6.

Earning her first all-conference honor, senior Grace Brynsaas finished 10th. She had a time of 21:43.2. In 21:44.2, Amelia Wadsworth toured the course to a 12th place finish. Concluding the team score was freshman Olivia Volkmann. In a time of 21:45.1, she earned 14th.

Lily Sandhorst and Deborah Hougen were also suited up for the varsity. Sandhorst toured the course in 21:58.8, good for 19th, while Hougen finished the 5K in 23:13.1 in 28th place.

“Our seniors came into the season with high goals and expectations, their leadership has been amazing. The team was not afraid to work hard and more importantly to celebrate each other all season. We, as coaches, are so excited and proud of the effort and accomplishments of this group,” said Viking girls coach Cristy Nimrod.

So close For the third year in a row, the Viking boys were the runners-up, with five athletes being named all-NEIC. As a squad, Decorah had an average time of 17:37, with a spread of only 36 seconds.

The individual title went to Austin Soldwisch of Waverly-Shell Rock. He broke the tape in 16:47.9.

Decorah junior Grant Zilka earned his second all-conference nod with a sixth place finish in 17:15.8. After finishing 18th a year ago, sophomore

Warriors “dig” out a win

Avery Luzum preps for a back set to Addison Timp Tuesday in a gym filled with pink for Dig Pink Night at South Winn.

(Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz) The South Winn volleyball team (17-12, 7-1 UIC) captured a win in their regular season finale 3-1 Tuesday in front of a full house on Dig Pink Night over Central Elkader (10-19, 5-2 UIC).

It didn’t come easy for the Warriors as Central Elkader captured a back and forth opening set win 29-27. The second set had many momentum swings, but South Winn found a way to win a tight one 26-24 and carried that through for the third and fourth set wins to finish out the night in a pair of 2515 sets.

Katrina Hageman paced the way with 14 kills with Abby Wagner coming up with eight kills. Avery Humpal, Alyssa Holthaus and Ivey Franzen provided another five kills apiece.

Humpal was a perfect 22-for-22 with four aces from the service line. The setting duo of Avery Luzum and Ella Theis continued to distribute the ball well combining for 29 assists in the match.

“Central Elkader was a very scrappy team and I was impressed with the improvements they had made since we had

seen them at a tournament four weeks ago. We played some of our highest level moments of the year, especially offensively, but some consistency in some facets kept us from really taking control of the match early. It is always a fun moment to capture a final home win of the season, and our girls loved playing in front of a great home crowd all year. The real win of the night was raising $2300 for the Winneshiek County Celebration of Life on Dig Pink Night. Thanks to all the individuals and businesses that supported this great cause,” said Coach Alex Smith.

Postseason Wednesday A first-round bye in Class 2A Region 6, will give the Warriors a week to work on their game as South Winn will travel to Beckman in Dyersville for the quarterfinals Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m. The winner will advance to the Monday, Oct. 23, semifinal at Wapsie Valley at 7 p.m.

“We look forward to the week of preparation and spending time in the gym to gear up against a high level opponent in Beckman,” added Coach Smith.

Garrett See moved up to ninth place. He had a time of 17:38.2.

Finishing 10th was D’mitry Lesser in 17:39.2. A year ago, Lesser was the silver medalist of the JV race. Landyn Hook stopped the clock at 17:40.8, good for 12th — a big leap from his 28th place finish in 2022.

Earning his second all-NEIC nod, in 14th with a time of 17:52.5 was Henry Weis.

Also on the varsity scorecard for the Vikes were Oliver Bollinger and Thomas Hammel. Bollinger posted a time of 18:08.7, good for 18th while Hammel was 26th in 19:09.8.

“This was a great run by the team with excellent efforts by all,” noted Decorah boys coach Brad Johansen.

JV results Both the JV squads were on top of the podium again.

The girls earned first with 18 points, an average time of 22:15 and a spread of 38 seconds.

Ana Simon was the individual champion. Her time was 21:56.2. Also counting for the Lady Vikes were Danielle Losen (2nd, 21:56.7), Stella Pole (4th, 22:21.3), Natalie Goodner (5th, 22:28.8) and Elsa Johnson (6th, 22:34.6).

The boys tallied 19 points, with an average time of 18:34 and spread of 34 seconds.

Taking home the title was Jack DeLaRosa with a time of 18:13.8. Completing the JV scoring were Mitchell Stemper (3rd, 18:27.8), Liam Huang (4th, 18:28.8), Max Grimstad (5th, 18:46.1) and Kyan Oftedahl (6th, 18:48.7).

TV escapes Earning his second all-NEIC West Central honor, Grant Zilka crossed

Touring the Waukon course in 21:02.6, freshman Brinlee Courtney finished sixth to earn an All-NEIC honor.

XC state-qualifying meet info

The state qualifying cross country meets are Wednesday, Oct. 18 (Class 3A/4A) and Thursday, Oct. 19 (Class 1A/2A). The varsity girls run at 4 p.m., with the varsity boys at 4:30 p.m.

Decorah is in Class 3A and will run at Clear Lake Wednesday. Other teams at that site are ADM, BK-CGD (boys), Bondurant-Farrar, Carlisle, Charles City, Clear Lake, Hampton-Dumont-CAL, Iowa Falls-Alden/AGWSR, Nevada, South Tama County, Waverly-Shell Rock and West Delaware.

In Class 3A, the top three teams, plus the top 15 individuals in each race advance to state.

South Winn and Turkey Valley are in Class 1A and will run at Central Springs Thursday. Other teams at that side are Belmond-Klemme (girls), Central Springs, Clarksville, Clear Lake Classical, Grundy Center, Janesville, Kee, Lake Mills, Nashua-Plainfield, Newman Catholic, North Iowa, Northwood-Kensett, Riceville, Rockford, Saint Ansgar, Tripoli, West Fork and West Hancock.

In Class 1A, the top two teams, plus the top 10 individual place winners, will advance to state.

The meets determine which teams advance to state, which is Friday, Oct. 27 and Saturday, Oct. 28, in Fort Dodge.

Vikes prep for NEIC tourney Stepping onto the home court for their final regular season game Monday, the Decorah volleyball team paid tribute to North Winneshiek school by wearing replica uniforms as the Vikes (12-13, 1-4 NEIC) fell 0-3 to Caledonia (Minn.). Set scores were 17-25, 15-25 and 16-25.

The Vikes had 23 kills, 96 attack attempts, 22 assists, 47 digs, six solo blocks and served 46-for-50 with five aces.

Sophomore McKinley Massman was 13-for-15 at the service line with two aces to go with a team-high seven kills and five digs. Leah Holland added six kills and two solo blocks, while Maddy Fromm had seven as-

Week 8 cross country rankings

Senior Halle Weber served 20-for-20 with an ace to go with seven digs in the Trojan’s 3-2 win over West Central Tuesday night. (Photo courtesy of Leah Kruse)

the finish line in 17:15.8, good for sixth place.

sists, four kills, seven digs and was 8-for-8 in serves with one ace. Dylin Thompson dished out 12 assists with eight digs and served 7-for-8.

Decorah now enters the postseason, which begins with the Northeast Iowa Conference tournament. The league tourney begins opening rounds Thursday, Oct. 12, at New Hampton at 6 p.m., and concludes Saturday, Oct. 14, in Charles City at 9 a.m. The Vikings will host Mason City (7-24) in Class 4A Region 5 action Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m., with the winner advancing to the semifinal against Xavier in Cedar Rapids Thursday, Oct. 19, at 7 p.m.

At Monday’s regular season finale, Decorah volleyball players wore replica North Winneshiek uniforms. Pictured are Viking seniors (l-r) Lydia Frank, Olivia Christopher, Maddy Fromm and Sydney Kipp. (submitted photo)

563-382-4221

It was a rough night on the court for the Turkey Valley volleyball team (12-12, 6-2 UIC) as the Trojans survived to win 3-2 over West Central (4-21, 3-5 UIC) on Senior Night Tuesday. Set scores were 25-7, 2325, 25-11, 20-25 and 15-12.

“Well, our seniors played our last game of the season at home and got the win but with some effort. We applaud the girls for staying in control and coming up with the victory,” said cohead coach Tammy Vrzak.

The Trojans had 53 kills on 139 attack attempts, along with 49 assists, 30 digs, 10 blocks and a serving performance of 99-for-108 with 10 aces.

Adriana Tiedt had 16 kills, nine digs and served 12-for14 with a pair of aces. Halle Weber went 20-for-20 at the service line and made seven digs. Dishing out 36 assists was Maici Weber to go with seven digs, five kills and an 8-for-10 serving performance. Ryann Schmitt, Kinsey Reicks and Layni Schuchhardt contributed seven kills apiece. Reicks also had five total blocks and served 16-for-17 with two aces.

Regional Monday The Trojans will host Riceville for Class 1A Region 6 action. The opening round of the postseason will begin at 7 p.m.

The winner will advance to the quarterfinal match against the winner of No. 9 Saint Ansgar (20-6) and Clarksville (1-17) in Saint Ansgar Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m.

Wagner wins football contest

Randy Wagner is the winner in week five of the football pigskin picks football contest.

Wagner, of Fort Atkinson, missed two games as did Decorah’s David Luhman; however, Wagner’s guess of 68 was closer in the tie-breaker than Luhman’s 78.

By that differential, Luhman took second. Don Bosco scored the most points this week against Turkey Valley with 59.

Taking third was Allen Goeke of Waukon with three missed games and a tie-breaker guess of 61, the closest of those missing three games.

Most commonly missed games were Decorah falling to Marion, New Hampton over Crestwood, Iowa State shocking TCU and Missouri S&T over Upper Iowa University.

Boys’ team rankings Class 4A – 1. West Des Moines Dowling; 2. Cedar Rapids Kennedy; 3.

Cedar Falls; 4. Ankeny; 5. Johnston; 6. Waukee Northwest; 7. Norwalk; 8.

Dallas Center-Grimes; 9. Pleasant Valley; 10. Urbandale; 11. Iowa City Liberty; 12. Ankeny Centennial; 13. Dubuque Hempstead; 14. West Des Moines Valley; 15. Waukee; 16.

Cedar Rapids Prairie; 17. Iowa City City High; 18. Dubuque Senior; 19.

Iowa City West; 20. Sioux City North Class 3A – 1. Gilbert; 2. Pella; 3. Lewis Central; 4. Glenwood; 5.

Carlisle; 6. Mount Vernon-Lisbon; 7.

Washington; 8. Winterset; 9. ADM; 10. MOC-Floyd Valley; 11. Clear Creek-Amana; 12. South Tama; 13. Solon; 14. Central DeWitt; 15.

Decorah; 16. Fort Madison; 17.

Center Point-Urbana; 18. Sioux Center; 19. Grinnell; 20. Marion Class 2A – 1. Des Moines Christian; 2. Waukon; 3. Chariton; 4. Williamsburg; 5. Denver; 6. Forest City; 7. Vinton-Shellsburg; 8. East Sac Co.; 9. Unity Christian; 10. MidPrairie; 11. Okoboji; 12. Spirit Lake; 13. Mediapolis; 14. Tipton; 15. Pella Christian; 16. Clarinda; 17. Oelwein; 18. Garner-Hayfield-Ventura; 19.

Jesup; 20. Sheldon Class 1A – 1. ACGC; 2. Lake Mills; 3. Grundy Center; 4. Iowa City Regina; 5. Ogden; 6. Madrid; 7. Woodbine; 8. Danville; 9. Pekin; 10. St. Albert; 11. Maquoketa Valley; 12. Earlham; 13. Ankeny Christian; 14. St. Edmond; 15. Bellevue; 16.

Springville; 17. IKM-Manning; 18.

Beckman Catholic; 19. SibleyOcheyedan; 20. Martensdale-St. Mary’s Girls’ team rankings Class 4A – 1. Johnston; 2.

Dubuque Senior; 3. Dubuque Hempstead; 4. Pleasant Valley; 5.

Dallas Center-Grimes; 6. West Des Moines Valley; 7. Ankeny Centennial; 8. Ankeny; 9. Iowa City City High; 10.

Waukee; 11. Indianola; 12. Cedar Falls; 13. Waukee Northwest; 14.

Dowling Catholic; 15. Iowa City West; 16. Linn-Mar; 17. Ames; 18.

Cedar Rapids Prairie; 19. Iowa City Liberty; 20. Mason City Class 3A – 1. Pella; 2. Gilbert; 3. Ballard; 4. Mount Vernon-Lisbon; 5. Solon; 6. Clear Creek-Amana; 7.

ADM; 8. Clear Lake; 9. Glenwood; 10. Sioux Center; 11. Harlan; 12. MOC-Floyd Valley; 13. Lewis Central; 14. Decorah; 15. Bishop Heelan; 16. Marion; 17. Washington; 18. Fort Madison; 19. Western Dubuque (Epworth); 20. WaverlyShell Rock Class 2A – 1. Mid-Prairie; 2. Albia; 3. Monticello; 4. Des Moines Christian; 5. Van Meter; 6.

Tipton; 7. Forest City; 8. SumnerFredericksburg; 9. Unity Christian; 10. Denver; 11. Williamsburg; 12.

Union; 13. Hudson; 14. Okoboji; 15.

Prairie City; 16. Clarinda; 17. Roland Story; 18. Cherokee; 19. Waukon; 20. Pella Christian Class 1A – 1. Madrid; 2. St. Edmond; 3. South Winneshiek; 4. ACGC; 5. Hinton; 6. Beckman Catholic; 7. Iowa City Regina; 8.

North Linn; 9. Alta-Aurelia; 10.

Collins-Maxwell; 11. Pekin; 12.

Earlham; 13. Panorama; 14. Grand View Christian; 15. Central Decatur; 16. Martensdale-St. Mary’s; 17.

Grundy Center; 18. Danville; 19.

AHSTW; 20. Newman Catholic

Registration open for DBA Registration for the 20232024 Decorah Basketball Association (DBA) season is now open and will close Monday, Oct. 23.

DBA is for fourth through eighth grade Decorah students interested in playing basketball.

Information about the season can be found online at www.decorahbasketball.com.

Contact Brigit Storhoff with questions brigitstorhoff@ gmail.com.

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