Community News Stories

Visitor restrictions updates:

• Visiting hours are from 8:30 am – 8:30 pm for “well” visitors only.
• Well includes:
  • No fever
  • No cough
  • No sore throat
  • No achiness
• Visitors must be over the age of 18.
• There is a one-visitor limit per inpatient stay (same visitor for the duration of the patient stay).
• A spouse/support person is the allowed visitor in the OB department.
• All visitors must clean their hands before entering any patient room— WMC provides hand sanitizer wall dispensers throughout the facility.
• All visitors will be screened prior to entering the facility.

The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting the local business community. As a community we have supported each other through many difficult times and this time will be no different.

The times are uncertain; the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to business and community is not. In response to COVID-19, our office is closed to the public and our in-person meetings and programs are postponed but we will continue to provide resources, engagement and leadership.

Remember all the businesses that have donated to your clubs, events and organizations? They’re calling in a favor. Help us answer the call. The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce has set up a one stop shop for all your local gift card purchases. Visit www.DecorahAreaChamber.com to support 35 (and counting!) local businesses by purchasing gift cards.

We understand the difficulty our local businesses, and our local economy, will have in the coming weeks or months. Many businesses are closed or operating under reduced hours or services. Purchasing gift cards will support local business now while allowing you to shop as soon as doors are open again.

Business hasn’t stopped, and neither has the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce. Learn more about how we’re supporting you and how we can support each other by visiting www.DecorahAreaChamber.com.

The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce mission is to be the trusted resource in the business community for advocacy, collaboration, and education.

IN AN ATTEMPT TO MAINTAIN CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS AND LIMIT POTENTIAL EXPOSURE DUE TO THE CORONA VIRUS/COVID‐19. THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE AND ALL COUNTY FACILITIES WILL BEGIN LIMITING ACCESS BY THE PUBLIC! WHILE THE COURTHOUSE AND ALL COUNTY FACILITIES WILL REMAIN OPEN, PEOPLE ARE ENCOURAGED TO CONTACT THE RESPECTIVE COUNTY OFFICE BY TELEPHONE TO CONDUCT BUSINESS UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. BUSINESS MATTERS THAT REQUIRE IMMEDIATE ATTENTION WILL BE ATTENDED TO AS IS NECESSARY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION!

HOWARD COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS AUDITOR 563‐547‐9203

VETERANS/ENVIRON 563‐547‐9212

TREASURER 563‐547‐9211

ASSESSOR 563‐547‐9201

RECORDER 563‐547‐9210

CLERK OF COURT 563‐547‐9206

ATTORNEY 563‐547‐9202

Winneshiek County Emergency Management
400 Claiborne Drive
Decorah, IA 52101
(563) 387-4095
ssnyder@co.winneshiek.ia.us
March 18, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Winneshiek County Emergency Management
Contact: Sean Snyder, Coordinator

RE: SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA)

On March 9, 2020 Governor Reynolds signed a state of Iowa Disaster Proclamation pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic. Winneshiek County signed a local Disaster Declaration on Monday March 16, 2020.

Important Information for Small Businesses in Iowa Affected by COVID-19 – Latest Update on SBA Disaster Assistance (as of March 16, 2020 – 5:00 p.m. CST)
Here is the latest information we have regarding disaster assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

We’re waiting on Iowa to be designated as eligible for small businesses in the state to apply for assistance in the form of Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). Because these are Economic Injury loans, the rules require each state to demonstrate economic losses to SBA before we can declare the counties within a state as eligible to apply for the loans. The Governor’s Office has been working with SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance to get the appropriate statistics for the application. Unfortunately, we don’t have a timetable as to when a decision will be made, but hopefully it will be soon.

Small businesses who have been impacted and want to pass their information on to the state are encouraged to reach out to their County Emergency Management office. They will then provide statistics on the number of affected businesses to the state as part of Iowa’s application to SBA.

Eligible businesses would apply directly to SBA for assistance as EIDL is a direct loan program. As soon a declaration is made in Iowa, we will be getting the word out from our office through every means we have. You can also go to www.sba.gov/disaster, click on the “Apply for Assistance” button and then click on “Eligible Disaster Areas” and search “Iowa” to see what’s available. The most recent declaration will be at the top and that’s where you’ll find information on the COVID 19 EIDL Loans as soon as Iowa is declared eligible. This website is also where businesses will apply for these loans once Iowa is declared eligible.

Winneshiek County Emergency Management
400 Claiborne Drive
Decorah, IA 52101
(563) 387-4095
ssnyder@co.winneshiek.ia.us

We also have a Website that encompasses ALL the information we have available for Small Business related to COVID-19. We encourage you to check it out.

Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019

(COVID-19) – https://www.sba.gov/page/guidance-businesses-employers-plan-respond-coronavirusdisease-2019-covid-19.

For additional information please contact the Winneshiek County Emergency Management office at 563-387-4095 or ssnyder@co.winneshiek.ia.us. Email is preferred at this time due to the high number of phone calls being received.

This is an official Emergency Management press release. Modifications of any kind are prohibited without express written consent of the author. Any reprint or broadcast of this information must include this entire communication.
###

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2020
Contact: Krista Vanden Brink BA, RN Nancy Sacquitne RN, BSN
kvandenbrink@winneshiekhealth.org nsacquitne@winneshiekhealth.org
First Case of COVID-19 Confirmed in Winneshiek County

A case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been confirmed in Winneshiek County. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), the individual is self-isolating at home.

“While this is Winneshiek County’s first case, it may not be the last, and that’s why we encourage all residents to continue to make prevention a priority,” said Winneshiek County Public Health Director Krista VandenBrink.

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow/upper arm.
• Staying home when ill.

Approximately 80% of Iowans infected with COVID-19, will experience only a mild to moderate illness.

Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19. Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house. Stay home and isolate from others in the house until:

• You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever without the use of
  medicine that reduces fevers)
  AND
• other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have
  improved)
  AND
• at least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in the office or if you can recover at home. There may also be options for you to talk to a medical provider from home using technology.

If additional questions, we encourage use of the 2-1-1 call line.

For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the IDPH webpage at https://idph.iowa.gov/EmergingHealth-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus and follow the department on Facebook at @IowaDepartmentOfPublicHealth and on Twitter at @IAPublicHealth.
###

Update Coronavirus

Gov. Reynolds issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency activating the public health response and recovery aspects of the State Disaster Emergency Plan effective at noon March 17, 2020 for Covid-19 response.

Social Distancing remains a main focus of concern.  Mass gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited at ALL locations and venues, this includes festivals, conventions, fundraisers, and parades. This is important in slowing the spread of disease.

Restaurants and bars were ordered closed and many local establishments are offering take-outs or carry outs. Please call your local favorite and support them BUT call them first.

It remains essential that each individual covers their cough, washes their hands often, and stays home if not feeling well.

If you are an elderly person or someone in the high-risk category, please make every effort to stay home and away from public locations. Businesses have made changes to allow curbside, carry out, pick-up deliveries so call them and check out your options.

Ask your family first or perhaps ask a neighbor to assist you with running your errands such as picking up needed groceries or medication.

Limit visitors into your home if you are in the high-risk category. Have visitors wash their hands and maintain the social distance of six (6) feet, if they must come in.

Reminder to all residents that you must NOT use anything but toilet paper in the toilets. That is the only things that breaks down properly to avoid damage to yours and the municipal sewer pipes. Do NOT flush wipes down the toilet, put them in the trash!

If questions, regarding the Coronavirus, please call the Iowa Department of Public Health call line at 2-1-1.

Check out www.cdc.gov/covid19 or www.iowa.idph.gov  and look for COVID-19 resources for more information.

Own your energy future. Go solar today! The Winneshiek solar fair is no longer happening at the county fairgrounds.  Instead visit energydistrict.org/solarfair on Saturday, March 21st at 10 am for a live stream solar presentation and Q&A with Joel Zook, energy planner.  Get the tools you need to go solar in 2020 from the comfort of your own home!    This event is generously sponsored by Decorah Bank and Trust and Wennes Communications

Vosseteig Funeral Homes Press Release Re: COVID-19

For Immediate Release

March 18, 2020

Vosseteig Funeral Homes Press Release Re: COVID-19

The health and safety of our guests and employees is our top priority. We want to assure you that Vosseteig Funeral Home is taking proactive measures to help prevent the spread of any potential illness. We are closely monitoring the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization’s statements, along with Wisconsin Department of Health Services, regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and following guidelines from these agencies and our local health departments.

Beginning Tuesday, March 17, Governor Tony Evers announced an emergency order banning mass gatherings of 10 people or more. Funeral homes are not exempt from this. This presents an obvious challenge in gathering families for funeral services. Recognizing loss is a human instinct and is a vital component to the healing process. Simply put, funerals are important. Yet, in times of critical health importance, we stand with these difficult decisions made to protect public health.

We are handling this situation by honoring family requests, and please know we are not cancelling any events. However, events will need to be limited to 10 people in our facilities at a time.

Please make an extra effort to support those that have lost a loved one during this time. Your support is more important than ever with the added stress of these extraordinary circumstances. For those who refrain from coming for any events you are encouraged to leave messages for the family on our website, www.vossfh.com or on our Facebook page.

Losing a friend or family member is never easy, and we are very aware that these unsettling times can amplify feelings of grief and anxiety. Please know that we are here for anything else you may need to honor life, support loved ones, and initiate the healing process. Do not hesitate to reach out with concerns, questions, or if you need someone to talk to we are here day and night for our community.

Our prayers go out to those affected by the recent changes.

*****We request that guests who are experiencing any cold or flu-like symptoms including fever, cough and shortness of breath or have been in contact with or have recently traveled to any of the affected countries refrain from visiting the funeral home at this time*****

Please free to call us with any questions. (608) 637-2100

MiEnergy Cooperative offices close to the public

Co-op makes changes to annual meeting

Rushford, MN (11 a.m. March 18, 2020)— As of today, MiEnergy Cooperative’s offices in Cresco, Iowa and Rushford, Minn. are closed to the public until further notice due to COVID-19. Members are encouraged to call the cooperative at 800-432-2285 if they would like to talk with someone regarding electric service as employees are working and crews will continue to respond to outage calls 24/7.

Members who normally come into the office to make a payment can drop off payments in the drop box at the office locations. Other alternatives include using the payment phone line (1-877-853-6517) or submitting a payment online through SmartHub (www.MiEnergy.coop).

ANNUAL MEETING AND ELECTION NOTICE

The date was set, the announcement was made, the ballots will be mailed, but due to COVID-19 precautions, MiEnergy Cooperative will not have an annual meeting for members to attend on April 22.

The elections for District 1 board directors will continue as planned. A ballot package will be mailed to members living in District 1 on March 20 with details on how to vote. Contrary to what the cover letter will say with the package, as it was already pre-printed for mailing prior to changes due to the pandemic, members will not be able to cast their ballot in person.

“Information in the ballot package will explain how to cast a vote by mail with the paper ballot or online with an electronic ballot. There will be no in-person option,” explained Brian Krambeer, MiEnergy’s president and CEO. “Consistent with our bylaws, mail ballots and electronic ballots will be counted toward a member quorum to allow for director elections to proceed.”

MiEnergy’s directors will meet on April 22 to accept the elections results and adjourn the meeting. Results of the elections will be made available.

An independent firm is collecting and tabulating the ballots. Security measures are in place to protect the confidentiality of votes and to prevent duplicate voting. The cooperative encourages its members living in District 1 to submit their vote by mail or online. All details on how to submit a ballot are included with the mailed ballot package. No ballots will be accepted at MiEnergy’s office locations or in payment drop boxes.

MiEnergy Cooperative is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative and is the result of a merger between Hawkeye REC, of Cresco, Iowa and Tri-County Electric Cooperative, of Rushford, Minn. in 2017. It maintains 5,500 miles of power lines covering most of Fillmore, Houston and Winona counties in Minnesota and Chickasaw, Howard and Winneshiek counties in Iowa. The cooperative also serves small pockets bordering those counties. It provides electricity to more than 18,800 members in northeastern Iowa and southeastern Minnesota. MiEnergy is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

Spring Grove Public Schools is eligible to serve Free Meals (Breakfast and Lunch) to ALL children under the age of 18 during this mandated school closure.  We encourage familes to take advantage to this opportunity. 

We will not be able to serve meals in the cafeteria, therefore meals will be Grab ‘n Go and “bundled”. When you or your child/ren pick up lunch, breakfast for the following morning will also be included. Meals will be standard and will include all required meal components. Janet will be working on a menu for next week that we will publish. 

Pick-up times will be from 11:00 am. to 12:30 p.m. on regularly scheduled school days. Locations for pick-up are: Spring Grove Schools, Door #1 (Main Entry) and Viking Memorial Park, either the white school van or the log cabin (depending in weather). 

Please complete the survey below as we are trying to determine how many meals we should tenatively plan for. We want all children that want or need a meal to have one. We will put out another survey at the end of this week, for next week. 

If you have any questions, please email me at tanya.elton@springgrove.k12.mn.us. 

Thank you for your patricipation! 

https://forms.gle/ZpmPafiwt6sCQeg6A

NEICAC Family Services & Food Pantries Still Serving Residents

For immediate release –

Decorah, Iowa

March 18, 2020

Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation (NEICAC) will continue operations in all service area county Family Services offices. In following recommendations, offices will not be seeing customers face-to-face with the exception of Food Pantry pick-up at office doors. All area residents are encouraged to apply for the low-income home energy program and other assistance by phone or online. Workers who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 crisis are especially encouraged to apply. Residents of Allamakee, Bremer, Chickasaw, Clayton, Fayette, Howard & Winneshiek counties can apply online at www.neicac.org or by calling the local Family Services office listed below. Applications for assistance can be completed without visiting an office. Eligibility (175% of the federal poverty level) is based on either the household’s last 30 days of income or the most recent tax return, whichever is most beneficial to the household.

Additionally, NEICAC Food Pantries in Waverly, Decorah and Cresco will provide pre-bagged food and may be able to deliver food supplies to households needed for an emergency. To request food, residents can call or email the Food Pantry in their community.

It is important for everyone to stay home to prevent the community spread of COVID-19. NEICAC is prepared to provide needed services without requiring face-to-face appointments.

XXX

For more information, please contact:

Trisha Wilkins, Executive Director
Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation
563.387.4911

-Don Jose in Decorah: has decided to stop delivery services at this time and stick with takeout. **To call in your order call, 563-382-6052**

-Empty Nest Winery is offering Curbside Pickup at the Winery Saturdays 10-5 & Sundays 1-5pm. Our tasting room & event room are closed to the public, BUT with this curbside delivery you can either orderline, call during those hours with your order or we will take your order from your car & deliver it back to your car in our parking lot the same time. Available to order: wines, fresh sangria, growlers of tap beers & hard ciders all available for curbside pickup Saturdays 10-5 & Sundays 1-5 until further notice. Stay in your car and we will take care of you!

-The Family Table  Restaurant is Close until March 31st

-TBocks in downtown Decorah is closed until April 2nd

-Magpie Cafe & Coffeehouse Decorah is now closed until April 1st

-Barney’s in Burr Oak: open 11am-8pm for carry out food and beer! Call us 563-735-5900

-Tapt out west union. 11 til 7- 563-412-1185

-The Creamery, Rushford
-Burdey’s Cafe, Peterson
-Shawnee’s, Rushford
-Stumpy’s Rushford
-Subway, Pam’s Corner- Rushford
-The Pizza Place, Spring Valley
-Rack’s, Spring Valley

-Diane’s Cafe, Hawkeye 563-427-3315

-Pizza Hut, Decorah – CARRYOUT & DELIVERY. Now offering delivery times 11am-2PM & 4pm-close.

-Dairy Queen, West Union 563-422-6284

-the Mint in Protivin

-In Lansing: Safe House Saloon: 563-538-4288, Shep’s Riverside Bar & Grill: 563-538-2009, Milty’s: 563-538-4585, NutMeg’s Cafe and Bakery: 563-538-9214, Main Channel Grill & Lodging: 563-538-4955, Fajitas Grill: 563-538-3000 

-The Zipper in Festina: 563-534-7181 ,Monday-Saturday: 11-1:30 ,Wednesday Night: 5:30-8:30, Fish Fry Fridays 4:30-8:30

–South Side Bar and Grill in Cresco (563)547-4242

-Jets MEATS AND CAFE 563-568-2620

-Buzzards In New Albin IA 544-4422

-Luana Tap. 563-539-4380

-Green Valley Getaway -Update on hours! 430-730 pm Tue-thurs take out only! Friday 11-1 take out only! Fri-sunday 4-8 take out and delivery available!

-Ktown tap, Kendallville 563-547-3256

-Oneota Coop: ONLINE ORDERING IS LIVE! http://oneotacoop.com/covid-19-and-the-co-op/?fbclid=IwAR0AA7iO8dxaCE02WD2PDsdMyPUiQrI_MauM9jY_eYwI7geHZMnw9NEbET8

– Riverside, Waucoma Takeout only: 563-776-4971

–Stone Hearth has To -Go and Carry outs available 563-382-4614 Hours are 11-2 and 5-7

-The Fort in Ft Atkinson is open for carry outs from 11 am to 2 pm and then from 4 to 8 pm every day 563-358-9006!

–Alpha Tap, Alpha: 563-429-3051

-Farr Side, Spillville. 563 562 3114

–Buzzards, New Albin 563-544-4422

-The Barrel Drive in in West Union IS Open

-Little Miami, Freeburg- We will be open for carry outs and off sales ONLY, no dine in Wednesday – Sunday 11-7 p.m.
Our full menu is available.

-NutMeg’s Cafe & Bakery, Lansing- NutMeg’s will be doing carry-outs only and have a limited number of baked good and donuts on hand for the foreseeable future. We will still be taking bakery orders so just give us a call.

-Gus and Tony’s in West Union dine-in closed. Carry-outs and deliveries still availiable! Call: 563-422-9500

-Culver’s of Decorah dine-in is closed. Drive-thru will remain open! Call ahead orders are also accepted: 563-382-5120

-Mabes Pizza Decorah plans to be open 11am-9pm for carry-out and delivery only. Find their menu at www.mabespizza.com!

-Pizza Ranch Decorah- Pizza Ranch in Decorah is not doing buffets or dine ins until further notice. We will still do carry outs and deliveries until further notice. Please spread the news.

-Ede’s Angry Pickle Decorah is open Tuesday through Saturday 10:30am to 2pm for Curbside pickup. Call to order at 382-9600 and Ede will deliver out to the curb.

-Elsie’s in Caledonia has a window available for food pick up. Open 7 days a week from 9am to 7pm. Call 507-725-3313 to order.

-Jet’s Meat & Cafe Waukon open for carry outs from 9-2 Monday -Sunday and meat counter open Monday – Friday 8-5.  563-568-2620

-Two Tree’s Pizza of Ossian will be offering take out Pizza’s along with offering delivery to all places within 5 miles of Ossian.

-Milty’s of Lansing will be open for pick up orders.  Call them and they will get it ready for you.

-Ivy Grove Cafe in Spring Grove will be providing carry out orders only until further notice. Please call 507-498-5450.

-Toppling Goliath Decorah. Curbside Pick-Up AND Carry-Out services. Their full menu PLUS To-Go Beer, including cans and NEW growler fills, are all available for easy, safe pick-up.  Check out TG’s full menu online at tgbrews.com then call 563-387-6700 to place your order.

-Fireman’s Inn Ridgeway-  Will be switching gears to curbside/carryout food and beverage. We ask that you call when you arrive outside. Please pay by card over the phone, check or exact cash. We will deliver the food to you in either parking lot. We will be open normal business hours – Wednesday through Sunday 11:00am to 9:00pm. Thank you for your patience. Stay healthy and safe! The Fireman’s Inn Team.

https://www.auctionsgo.com/bill.cfm?bid=prestby2003210901&st=&key=prestby&tr=key&itm=&dbx=uhoas4zcipk4n48h3yed5q3hs

Good afternoon friends of HSNEI, in the midst of the international pandemic of COVID-19 we are in preparations for all scenarios and that includes limiting staff and non essential personnel in and out of HSNEIs facilities, especially with many of our current staff members being Luther students who will no longer be in the Decorah area. We are hoping and searching for emergency fosters at this time to lessen the burden at the shelter. If you are able and willing to accommodate a cat or two or a dog in your home during these uncertain times we would very much like to get in contact with you. Please apply for fostering at https://www.hsnei.org/foster-homes so we can get you approved as soon as possible. We appreciate and thank you in advance for your outreach

[Over]
VERNON COUNTY OFFICE OF
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
318 FAIRLANE DRIVE, SUITE 5 Brandon Larson, Director
VIROQUA, WISCONSIN 54665 Telephone: (608)637-5266
Fax: (608) 637-5502
Brandon Larson, Director of Vernon County Emergency Management
608-637-5266
brandon.larson@vernoncounty.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
County Office Building Restrictions
Viroqua, WI, March 17th, 2020-
In an effort to mitigate the spread of Covid-19, and create social distancing, effective Tuesday,
March 17th at 4:30pm all Vernon County buildings will be closed to the public. Starting
Wednesday, March 18th at 8:30am a number of Vernon County employees will be working
remotely, consistent with continuity of operations plans that have been developed. The plans
were recently updated as Coronavirus emerged as a global pandemic. Countywide, wherever
possible a number of county employees will have the technical capability to work outside of an
office setting and, effective today, are beginning to reduce face to face human contact. This will
help provide social distancing at work consistent with public health recommendations. Using
prevention, we can slow the spread of the disease and protect the most vulnerable.
There will also be County staff present and working in the County buildings. Vernon County
officials are encouraging people to conduct business with County Departments via phone and
email when possible. If you need to meet with a county department you are asked to call ahead
and make an appointment with that department. A list of department phone numbers can be
found below, and also on our website www.vernoncounty.org
Aging and Disability- 608-637-5201 Child Support- 608-637-5335
Circuit Court- 608-637-5364
Clerk of Courts- 608-637-5340
County Clerk- 608-637-5280
District Attorney- 608-637-5357
Emergency Management- 608-637-5266
Health Department- 608-637-5251
[Over]
Highway Department- 608-637-5452
Human Services- 608-637-5210
Information Technology- 608-637-5375
Land and Water Conservation- 608-637-
5480
Personnel- 608-637-5303
Register of Deeds- 608-637-5371
Resource and Community Development608-637-5379
Sheriff- 608-637-2123
Solid Waste and Recycling- 608-634-2900
Treasurer- 608-637-5367
UW Extension- 608-637-5276
Vernon Manor- 608-637-5400
Veterans Service- 608-637-5323
Zoning and Sanitation- 608-637-5270
If you would like more information please contact the Vernon County Emergency Management
office at 608-637-5266 or the Health Department at 608-637-5251.
###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:  Nate Furler, Marketing & Outreach Manager, Oneota Community Food Co-op

563-382-4666, nate@oneotacoop.com

Oneota Co-op Launches Phone and Online Ordering Offerings and Closes to Customer Foot Traffic

Decorah, Iowa, 03/17/20 –

During the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak the Oneota Community Co-op has been following our Pandemic Plan to protect employees, members, customers and vendors as this virus has progressed. Having a safe and sanitized shopping environment has always been a top priority for us and has presented many challenges to continue normal operations. The Co-op, as all grocery stores in the area, is an essential business for our community and this virus has forced us to think about how we can do business in different ways.

In order to ensure that we can continue to provide groceries and supplies to our customers in a safe manner, beginning at 1pm today (Tuesday, March 17) the Management Team, in conversation with our Board of Directors, has made the decision to close the store and secure it from outside normal customer traffic. Beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, March 18, the Co-op will launch online and phone ordering systems for customers. Phone orders may be placed from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, Monday through Friday, by calling the Co-op at 563-382-4666. Curbside pick-up at the front of the Co-op will be utilized for both phone and online orders. Please check www.oneotacoop.com for links to the online ordering platform and follow the Co-op on Facebook and Instagram for updates through the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision to close the store to customer foot traffic was not made lightly – but we feel it is our responsibility to keep our employees safe, and by limiting outside exposure to the interior of the store we can help to ensure that we will stay open and continue to serve our community.

The Board, management team, staff and I want to thank everyone in our community for your overwhelming support as we navigate this situation. The need to balance the safety of our employees with meeting the needs of our community will continue, but it will look different for a while. Thank you for your patience.

This has not been easy, but your kind words and virtual hugs go a long way!

David Lester, GM

As the coronavirus crisis has escalated, Winneshiek County residents have watched people around the world panic. It doesn’t matter which channel; the news is bad and filled with dire warnings. Fortunately, in these unprecedented times, our community members and leaders are looking for ways to keep our community members healthy, our businesses solvent, and our economy stable. They are taking the call to slow the spread of the virus and lower the curve seriously. They may even show the rest of the world how caring, ingenious, and creative rural Iowans can be.

Winneshiek County Development and Tourism just announced a new project with Decorah Now. Executive Director Stephanie Fromm noted, “We live in a part of the world where people are ingenious problem solvers. We know what it means to act locally and buy local. We know from past experience that our citizens our resilient, innovative, and caring. We care for each other and take care of each other. We have strong families and work every day to have strong local economies. What we are and how our rural communities’ function in Northeast Iowa is very different than New York or Seattle. That is why we knew we wanted our response to be different and why Winneshiek County Economic Development and Tourism was so excited to partner with Decorah Now to establish the Decorah and Winneshiek County Mutual Aid Network. It won’t be the only thing we do, but it is the first and we believe one of the most important.”

Fromm noted that the network will function through Decorah Now to help community members, businesses, and organizations from throughout Winneshiek County and beyond, share information and resources, read more about what is happening locally, let others know they are available to help, and/or to ask for help, suggest ideas, and share positive stories.

Why and how did it come about? This effort came about in part because several people want to help and didn’t know how to get in touch with people who needed help. Kayla Scholl, Brad Crawford, and Liz Rog from Decorah Now were thinking that our community needed a way to streamline communications so that we could meet the needs of individuals and the community as a whole. Crawford explained, “We were wondering how we could connect people. So for example, what if someone could safely offer temporary child care to families, especially health care workers, who must continue to work during this time? How would they get ahold of those people that need help? What if at risk community members just need someone to pick up groceries or household items? Are there businesses that could offer temporary work to healthy people who are temporarily out of work?” Scholl noted, “I wondered if we could set up a specific board on Decorah Now for requests for help and offers to help during the COVID-19 outbreak? Contact could be made just like it is when someone is selling/buying on Decorah Now.”

Around the same time, Steph Fromm and Lora Friest from Winneshiek County Development and Tourism were thinking that individuals and businesses needed a way to connect and help each other in innovative ways. Fromm noted, “We wondered, what if we encourage shifts in business policies and management that, if given a chance, could help our community members. For example, why not start more delivery options from our restaurants but if they do, how will they tell people? What if our small business counselors help our downtown businesses, and other small businesses, improve their on-line presence so more commerce can happen on-line, but if they do, how will we get the word out? What about individual community members who need assistance but have no family here? If we have people who want to help, how do we connect them?”

Friest noted that, “Because Winneshiek County Development and Tourism already works closely with Decorah Now, the partnership was obvious. I just gave Brad a call.” Brad Crawford, who has helped businesses and nonprofits create websites, was already at work developing the on-line platforms. The partnership was off and running. Crawford noted that, “Liz reached out to the community, and Lauren Bonney put together a logo in record time!” Soon others were contributing and committed to helping. Fromm noted that she is excited to see what happens and how these on-line platforms inspire people in our community. “We all know of some amazing things that people are already doing so we are excited to get that word out and inspire others. Just yesterday, I was contacted by several people who have committed to paying their child care bills even though their child care is closed. They want to make sure their child care providers are available when the child cares and schools reopen. That is just one of several examples of what is happening here.The individual things that people are doing…they are a big deal.”

When asked what people could do, Brad Crawford encouraged them to go to the website and complete the “I need help” form, the “I can help” form, join the Facebook group and if they can, join the coordination effort.

For more information, visit https://decorahnow.com/mutual-aid-network/ or contact Brad Crawford (brad@decorahnow.com) or Stephanie Fromm (director@winneshiekdevelopment.org).

In response to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, Winneshiek County is taking steps to protect employees and the public. Cleaning practices have been increased in all offices and plans are in place to assist employees in working remotely if necessary. To protect your personal health and the health of our employees, before visiting a Winneshiek County building please call ahead to see if you can conduct your business electronically or over the phone. Visit https://www.idph.iowa.gov or https://www.winneshiekhealth.org/ for the most up-to-date information about the rapidly evolving situation.

Winneshiek County Assessor – Iowa Code 441.23 requires assessment notices be delivered by April 1^st. Winneshiek Counties 2020 assessment notices were recently mailed to property owners where changes were made in 2019. Please contact this office by email, phone, or mail regarding your assessment notice, to file an appeal, or signing up for any of the various credits and exemptions. All contact information is listed on the top portion of your assessment notice. Please, also review specific dates on the lower portion of the notice. Feel free to contact our office with any questions you may have.  Phone: 563-382-5356 .

Winneshiek County Recorder – most services except passport applications and vital statistics records can be done online, by mail or over the phone. Please call 563/382-3486 or email: recorders@co.winneshiek.ia.us for details.

Winneshiek County Treasurer –Many transactions can be done online with a credit card or by phone or by mail. Please call 563/382-3753 for an appointment before you go to the Winneshiek County Courthouse for Treasurer Office transactions. If your transactions can be done online staff can walk you through the process. Simple vehicle tag/sticker renewals and property taxes can be paid online at www.iowatreasurers.org or by mail to Winneshiek County Treasurer, 201 W. Water Street, Decorah, IA 52101. Simple driver’s license renewals can be processed online at MyMVD.iowadot.gov.

Winneshiek County Sheriff – check the Winneshiek County Sheriff Facebook page and website for adjustments to services. Please call (563/382-4268) to schedule an appointment for any non-emergency services.  https://www.winneshiekcounty.org/departments/sheriff.

Winneshiek County Veteran Affairs – please call the office at 563/382-5786 to conduct business via the phone or to schedule an appointment.

Winneshiek County Engineer – please call the office at 563/382-2951 to conduct business via the phone or to schedule an appointment.

Winneshiek County Auditor – please call the office at 563/382-5085 to conduct business via the phone or to schedule an appointment.

Winneshiek County Public Health – please call the office at 563/382-4662 to conduct business via the phone or to schedule an appointment.

Winneshiek County Environmental Health (Sanitarian)– please call the office at 563/387-4120 to conduct business via the phone or to schedule an appointment.

Winneshiek County Planning and Zoning– please call the office at 563/387-4080 to conduct business via the phone or to schedule an appointment.

Winneshiek County Conservation– please call the office at 563/334-7145 to conduct business via the phone or to schedule an appointment.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact: Todd Ihde, City Water Superintendent, 563-382-5171
decwat@decorahia.org

City of Decorah Water Dept Warns, don’t flush disposable wipes

Aase Haugen Senior Services has cancelled the Annual Meeting Scheduled for Tuesday, March 17. New date TBD

Library Director Kristin Torresdal said “Our mission centers on serving the community; we have determined that the most important service we can render at this time is to aid social distancing measures and limit community spread. It is our hope that by discontinuing open hours in the short term, we can help protect our most vulnerable community members.”

Public Libraries across the state are announcing closures this week as k-12 schools and colleges and universities are also closing or moving to online education modules.

“Don’t worry about due dates or fines,” Torresdal said, “just hang on to any library materials you have for now and we’ll get things sorted out as we move forward. Community members can still access free e-books and digital audiobooks via our website during this time. Staff will also share recommendations for additional online resources on our social media pages.”

When open hours resume that information will be made available on the library’s website, social media, and in local media outlets. Contact Torresdal at ktorresdal@decorah.lib.ia.us with questions

Northeast Iowa Wellness & Recreation Center located at 313 W. Post Street in Postville, Iowa

will be holding it’s annual Women’s Day Event on Saturday ~ April 18th from 9 AM to Noon

The event will feature vendor shopping, free fitness classes:

9 AM – Water Aerobics

10 AM – Princess Yoga

11 AM – Cycling

~~~ The event will also have canvas and sign making classes – with preregistration and class fee.

Update regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): The Minnesota Department of Health does NOT recommend K-12 school closures at this time. For more information from MDH, including guidelines f or school closures from CDC, click here.The BAND AND CHOIR CONCERTS are postponed. More information to come.

Read the Lion’s Roar for all the details!

https://www.springgrove.k12.mn.us/page/3064

Girl Scout Carnival event to be held 3:30-6:30pm on Sunday March 15th at Luther Regents Center has been cancelled.

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Cancels Upcoming Pesticide Applicator Testing Sessions

Events will not be held from March 16-31 out of an abundance of caution

DES MOINES, Iowa (March 13, 2020) – To help slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is canceling its in-person pesticide applicator testing sessions through the end of the month.

“We’re working with public health officials and other state and federal agencies to monitor the rapidly developing COVID-19 situation,” said Secretary Naig. “The health of the public and our employees is our top priority so we are temporarily suspending in-person testing out of an abundance of caution.”

The affected in-person meetings were scheduled to take place between March 16 and 31.

• March 16: Nevada
• March 17: Everly, Mason City and Tama
• March 18: Emmetsburg and Newton
• March 23: Oskaloosa
• March 24: Garner, Orange City and Waterloo
• March 25: Altoona, Muscatine and Rock Rapids

Additional pesticide applicator certification testing sessions may be offered at partner locations later in the year. Visit iowaagriculture.gov/pesticide-bureau for a list of alternate pesticide applicator certification testing dates and locations.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Contact: Wanda Hemesath, City Clerk,Tr., PIO

   Kristen Torresdal, Library Director, PIO

City of Decorah COVID Response

Decorah, IA (March 12, 2020) – The City of Decorah is taking all steps necessary to ensure the continuation of all public services during this time of potential health concern.

Staff shall follow specific procedures to help limit the exposure or spread of COVID19 within their respective departments and the City overall.

The City will work in cooperation with and follow the direction of Winneshiek County Public Health and the Winneshiek Emergency Preparedness Coalition in taking all necessary steps to provide for public safety and the continuation of City services.

The City will continue to update the public with changes as they occur.  Public information releases will be accomplished by press releases to radio, newspaper and other public forums, city website www.decorahia.org and city social media venues.

The Iowa Department of Public Health is the lead agency for the dissemination of information related to the Coronavirus (COVID19).  Winneshiek County Public Health is your local, central point of contact for local efforts.

            Iowa Department of Public Health – www.idph.iowa.gov or call IDPH at 2-1-1

            Winneshiek County Public Health – www.winneshiekhealth.org 563-382-4662

Please refer to these agencies for specific information and direction regarding COVID19. 

Media Release

For Immediate Release

March 15, 2020

Subject:  Granny Basketball® Games

Contact:  Barbara Trammell

319-389-7174

sixonsix@grannybasketball.com

The Granny Basketball League® is hosting an official game day at De Soto High School April 4, 2020. Games will begin at 11 a.m. and end at 3 p.m. The public is invited to watch the somewhat amusing action; admission is by free will donation.

Six teams from Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin (Lansing Great Dames, Center Point Model Ts, Monticello Gothics, La Crosse Does, Wanamingo Bulldogs and Faribault Hot Shots) will meet at the two-gym facility to allow simultaneous games. Other area teams (Viroqua, Dubuque, Decorah, Harpers Ferry) will be playing at a different venue.

The Granny Basketball® League began in Lansing in 2005 and now includes 39 teams in 9 states. The slow-moving granny games are played using 1920s women’s basketball rules, which include three courts, two dribbles, no physical contact and no running or jumping. “Hurrying” is allowed.  Players wear uniforms typical of the 1920s: bloomers, middy blouses and long stockings. No bare legs or upper arms are permitted and players shoot underhanded (granny) shots for three points from anywhere on the floor.

These “ladies of a certain age” play throughout the year for fun, exercise and, as a 501(c)3 Corporation, donate game proceeds to various charities.

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In response to the worldwide COVID-19/Coronavirus pandemic we have made the decision to postpone the April 4 Winneshiek Pheasants Forever Banquet with plans to reschedule as soon as is responsibly possible

We understand that individuals have a unique level of risk tolerance, and that some individuals might have reached a different decision regarding these developments. In an attempt to be civically responsible, we are making decisions with an eye on the impact on community risk and public health, and are deferring to the guidelines of the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you have questions, please contact one of the following WPF board members:

Todd Duncan, 563-419-5006

DJ Friest, 563-419-0462

Brian Fankhauser, 515-249-1338

Mike Halverson, 563-419-5251

Gavin Nimrod, 563-379-8915

Thank you for your continued support of Winneshiek Pheasants Forever.

Northeast Iowa Wellness & Recreation Center located at 313 W. Post Street Postville, Iowa

Will hold it’s annual Women’s Day Event on Saturday ~ April 18th from 9 AM to Noon

The event will feature a Vendor Shopping Fair, Free Group Fitness Classes:

9 AM – Water Aerobics

10 AM – Princess Yoga

11 AM – Cycling

~~ Canvas painting and sign making classes will also be offered with preregistration and class fee~~

Ames, IA – The Best Burger Contest is not only a great way to celebrate Iowa’s 25,000 beef farmers, it’s also a great way to increase business for participating restaurants and draw visitors to Iowa communities.

“Winning the 2019 Iowa’s Best Burger Contest put our restaurant on the map and garnered new customers from all over the state. We went from serving 200 burgers a week to 200 burgers a night,” says Oskaloosa’s Wood Iron Grille. “Our burgers have always been our best-selling menu item, but after winning the contest nearly every guest that dined at our restaurant ordered a burger.”

The contest is sponsored by the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) and occurs in two phases. In the first phase, Iowans are encouraged to nominate their favorite burger, whether it’s gourmet or down-home style. Nominations will be accepted between February 10 and March 10, 2020.

Mardi Gras Carnival

Sunday, Feb. 29

4-6:30 p.m.

Holy Name Church in West Union

Food, Buy tickets for Games, Prizes

Everyone is invited!

OFFICE OF THE IOWA SECRETARY OF STATE
MEDIA RELEASE: Office statement from Secretary Pate regarding Iowa Caucuses

DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate released the following statement today regarding the Iowa Caucuses:

“The Iowa Secretary of State’s Office and county auditors have no official role in the Iowa Caucuses. They are run by the political parties. Although the caucuses are the kickoff of the presidential nominating process, they are not elections. Iowans do a terrific job of vetting the candidates and I congratulate the tens of thousands of citizens who turned out on caucus night and made their voices heard.
The accuracy of the Iowa Democratic Party’s vote totals is much more important than the timeliness of releasing the results. I am glad to hear they have a paper trail for their votes, just as we use paper ballots in all official elections in the State of Iowa. I support IDP while they take their time and conduct checks and balances to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the votes.”

Tuesday, February 4

Story Time, 10:30am

Stay & Play, 11am

Wednesday, February 5
World Read Aloud Day, 10am-8pm

Special Story Time, 10:30am

Thursday, February 6

Tech Tutor, 10am-12pm

Saturday, February 8

Matinee Movie: Million-dollar Duck, 1:30pm

Tuesday, February 11

Story Time with Ross: River Otters, 10:30am

Library Board Meeting, 4:30pm

Thursday, February 13

Tech Tutor, 10am-12pm

Pinterest Projects: Pulled String Art, 5:30pm

Monday, February 17

Teen Advisory Board (TAB), 4pm

Tuesday, Feburary 18

Story Time, 10:30am

People’s Law School: Elder Abuse, 5:30pm

Thursday, February 20

Tech Tutor, 10am-12pm

Foundation Book Sale, 2-6pm

Book Club: Thrift, Gift, or Used Book, 6pm

Tuesday, February 25

Story Time, 10:30am

After School with Ross: Animal Relationships, 3:30pm

Thursday, February 27

Tech Tutor, 10am-12pm

Live & Learn:Cultivate Hardwood Log Mushrooms, 5:30pm

More info… https://www.waukon.lib.ia.us/download_file/force/2184/1395

Maple Crest Campus in Fayette will be having a job fair 2/26/20 from 10a-6p. We will have tours, open interviews, child care available during your interview/tour, refreshments and more! Please plan to join us! Come and see what Maple Crest Campus has to offer!

Decorah, IA (January 16, 2020) – The City of Decorah is notifying residents that a snow emergency will be in effect starting Saturday, January 18th at 8:00 AM. The snow emergency will be in effect until Sunday, January 19th at 12:00 PM.

Residents are reminded that during a snow emergency, all vehicles shall be parked on the side of the street where buildings bear even numbers, until such time as the snow has been plowed from the opposite side of the street (where buildings bear odd numbers). Vehicles shall then be moved to the side of the street where buildings bear odd numbers.

Please contact the Street Department at 382-2157 with any questions.

DECORAH, Iowa — Be inspired by budding folk artists and Scandinavian traditions at Vesterheim, the national Norwegian-American museum and heritage center, during an open house for students from the “Scandinavian Fine Handcraft” January Term course at Luther College. This free community event will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 28, in the museum’s Main Building.

During the open house, students from the class will demonstrate carving and exhibit their class projects. Refreshments will be served.
The class is taught by Harley Refsal, Luther professor emeritus of Scandinavian folk art. Refsal is a Vesterheim Gold Medalist who has taught Scandinavian figure carving throughout the United States and Norway. He was honored by Norway’s King H. M. Harald V with the St. Olav Medal of Honor for his efforts in reinvigorating Scandinavian figure carving in both the United States and Norway.

Vesterheim, the national Norwegian-American museum and heritage center, in scenic Decorah, Iowa, showcases the best in historic and contemporary Norwegian folk and fine arts, and explores the American immigrant experience. This national treasure includes world-class exhibitions and 12 historic buildings. It is also a center for folk-art education, offering a wide variety of classes in authentic Norwegian folk art every year. For more information on the museum’s exhibitions, classes, events, membership opportunities, and ways to donate, check Vesterheim’s website at vesterheim.org, call (563) 382-9681, or write to Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, 502 W. Water St., P.O. Box 379, Decorah, IA, 52101-0379
A national liberal arts college, Luther offers an academic curriculum that leads to the Bachelor of Arts degree in more than 60 majors and pre-professional programs. For more information about Luther visit the college’s website: www.luther.edu.
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For your information, the first “check-plans” for Decorah’s 2020 Locust Road Improvement Project have been posted to the Iowa DOT website and available for your public review and comment through the Iowa DOT website.

Please follow the link and information below.
Let us know if you have any questions locally, but engineering and design questions will flow through the DOT’s site.

Posted at https://iowadot.gov/contracts#notices

CHECK PLAN FOR INFORMATION, LOCUST ROAD IMPROVEMENTS, City of Decorah, Winneshiek County
Project Details: PCC Pavement – Replace, In the City of Decorah, on Locust Road From College Drive 0.87 Miles to Pine Crest Drive – PCC Pavement Replace – Bid Alternate: Pine Crest Drive to Highland Drive
Project Number: STBG-SWAP-1867(617)—SG-96
Proposed Letting: April 21, 2020

Brief Description: This project involves full reconstruction of Locust Road in Decorah, Iowa from College Drive north to Highland Drive. The project also includes storm water and drainage improvements to the entire corridor, and the addition of new sidewalk from College Drive north to Shady Lane Drive and a little North of the intersection of Shady Lane. The Section from Pine Crest Drive to Highland Drive is a bid alternate and will be awarded if bids come within range of City estimate.

Plans are provided for information and comments only and are subject to change. Please contact Jeremy Bril (cityengineer@decorahia.org) or Chad Bird (citymanager@decorahia.org) with any comments/questions.

This is the Tentative project schedule and timeline:
The following is a possible schedule for the Locust Road project.
January 13th Street Committee meeting, plan review with Engineers (McClure Engineering to meet with the Street Committee to review plans and engineer’s estimate of cost. Open House / public review of final plans, (NO council action)
January 20th (Final Plans due to DOT on January 21st)
April 20th: Resolution for public hearing in front of Council for consideration and approval.
April 21st: Project is Bid, Notice of Public Hearing is sent for publication to Decorah News.
April 21st through May 1st: Information from DOT to City/McClure about bids received, contract forms, etc.
May 4th Public Hearing, followed by Council consideration and approval to award work to low bidder (with or without Bid Alternate 1: Pine Crest Drive to Highland Drive)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:  Nate Furler, Marketing & Outreach Manager, Oneota Community Food Co-op

563-382-4666, nate@oneotacoop.com

Round-Up at the Register Campaign at the Oneota Community Food Co-op Raises $1,700 for Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging.

Decorah, Iowa, 12/16/19 –

The Oneota Community Food Co-op hosted a “Round-Up at the Register” campaign November 18^th through December 2^nd. During this time, customers at the Co-op were given the opportunity to round-up their sale to the nearest whole dollar with these funds going to support the Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging. The campaign held in November/December raised just over $1,700.

Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging coordinates services for individuals to help them maintain the independence they desire. Services include option counseling, case management, meal programs, caregiver support, respite services, evidence based health programs, advocacy, and recreation and education programs. They serve the following counties in Iowa: Allamakee, Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, Chickasaw, Clayton, Delaware, Dubuque, Fayette, Grundy, Hardin, Howard, Jackson, Marshall, Poweshiek, Tama, and Winneshiek.

For more information about the Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, check out www.nei3a.org.

Located in downtown Decorah, Oneota Community Food Co-op is a cooperatively-owned grocery store specializing in local, organic, and sustainably produced products since 1974.  For over four decades, the Co-op has been the leading provider of whole foods at a reasonable cost, with an emphasis on organic, local and bulk foods. Stop in and check out the newly remodeled store at 312 West Water Street in Decorah, or online at www.oneotacoop.com.

Pictured in photo: (left to right) Kristie Wiltgen, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging Regional Coordinator, Kristin Evenrud, Oneota Community Food Co-op, and Maddy Beiwel, Oneota Community Food Co-op.