Community News Stories

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

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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
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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.

Coming to you with the coolest news – Decorah Bank & Trust Company attained carbon neutrality last week after 10 years of focused efforts! We don’t know for certain, but believe Decorah Bank is one of the only business in the region, and quite possibly one of the only banks in the nation to be carbon-neutral. If you aren’t yet familiar with the significance of carbon neutrality, this means our facilities have a zero net release of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, ultimately creating a more breathable environment and planet.

We hope to inspire individuals and business owners. Here’s our story:

https://www.decorahbank.com/becoming-carbon-neutral-and-how-we-did-it/

Looking for a family activity to do over the holiday weekend?

Our flower pots along Main Street have transitioned to winter decorations, but there’s plenty of room for personalization! We’d like to invite you to “Adopt a Pot” and decorate it as festively as you desire! See the attached photo for an idea of what this could look like.

And don’t forget, this weekend is Small Business Saturday! Local businesses have plenty of deals for you to explore, so make sure you come downtown! Main Street Lansing will also be hosting a food drive for LIFT in our office during Small Business Saturday, and if you make a food or cash donation you will be entered to win one of three $10 gift cards from the Lansing IGA!

We hope you all have a fantastic holiday weekend!

—

Andy KelleherExecutive Director, Main Street Lansing563-538-9229P.O. Box 307, Lansing, IA  52151

News Release                                                 Contact:

                                                                        Jenna Haynes

Wednesday, November 27, 2019                                                       563-387-3143

haynesj@winmedical.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WMC Foundation extends their gratitude to two Board directors for their service

The Winneshiek Medical Center (WMC) Foundation would like to say thank you to John Noel and Jerry Samuelson for their 9 years of service as directors of the WMC Foundation Board. Noel and Samuelson will complete their terms in December of 2019. Each of them served three, three year terms to the WMC Foundation. “They are truly dedicated to furthering the mission of WMC and the foundation in our region. On behalf of the board, we can’t begin to tell you what your service has meant. The advancement of the foundation work and passion you have for local healthcare is impeccable,” shares Holly Kanengieter, WMC Foundation Coordinator.

The 2019 Winneshiek Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors includes: Chris Redenius (President), Dan Ryan (Vice President), Amy Bruening (Secretary/Treasurer), Jim Anderson, Keri Bodensteiner, Jim Burns, Marcia Gullickson, Mike Huinker, Heidi Miller-Olinger, John Noel, Brad Orvis, M.D., Jerry Samuelson, Craig Symons, Roger Huinker (WMC Board of Trustees Representative), Steve Hildebrand (WMC Board of Trustees Representative), Lisa Radtke, WMC Chief Administrative Officer (Ex-officio) and Holly Kanengieter, WMC Foundation Coordinator.

To learn more about the WMC Foundation, visit www.winmedical.org/giving or call 563-387-3129.

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Photo cutline: WMC Foundation extends gratitude to John Noel and Jerry Samuelson for their service to the Foundation Board of Directors.

November 27, 2019
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Mary Marx, Director of Marketing & Communications
563-387-3020 marxm@winmedical.org

Chronic knee pain? It may be time for a knee replacement.

Rick Wilkerson, D.O., is Decorah’s newest orthopedic surgeon. With extensive experience in joint replacements, Dr. Wilkerson answers questions about one of the most common procedures: a knee replacement.

Q. Why do people get knee replacements?
A. Typically, chronic knee pain is the result of arthritis (osteoarthritis due to age, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis following a serious knee injury). Over time, the cartilage cushioning the bones in the knee deteriorates, causing bone-on-bone friction when the joint moves. This can lead to pain when walking or resting, depending on the severity of the arthritis. A knee replacement, or a knee arthroplasty, is an effective treatment option for chronic knee pain if medication, injections or physical therapy do not provide sufficient relief. There is no “right age” for a knee replacement; recommendations for surgery depend on a patient’s pain level and how it is affecting his/her quality of life. Patients should work with their primary care provider and an orthopedic surgeon to determine the best treatment plan for their needs.
Q. What happens during a knee replacement?
A. Your orthopedic surgeon will replace the deteriorated cartilage and surface bones with a metal implant and plastic spacer to artificially create the space your knee joint needs to move. The surgery is usually performed under spinal, regional or general anesthesia, and takes 1-2 hours. Prior to surgery, patients should complete any needed dental work and be evaluated for urinary infections to reduce the risk of complications.
Q. What is the treatment and recovery?
A. Usually, patients will spend one-two days in the hospital following a knee replacement. During that time, your orthopedic surgeon and inpatient nurses will care for the wound site, help manage post-surgical pain levels, and monitor for infection, blood clots and/or other risk factors. Soon after surgery (in some cases, the same day) physical therapists will begin exercises with you to strengthen your leg and restore knee movement. You will continue these exercises after you leave the hospital, under the on-going care of your physical therapy team. In 4-6 weeks, most patients have returned to their normal abilities, but without pre-surgery pain levels. At one year, you will have reached maximum medical improvement. It is important have realistic expectations of a knee replacement; patients will not be able to do activities they could not do prior to developing arthritis. Patients should also avoid high-impact activities like running, jogging or jumping after surgery to prolong the effectiveness of the knee implant.

Make an appointment
Dr. Wilkerson is an experienced, proven orthopedic surgeon who has special interest in joint replacements and sports medicine surgical care. He performs hip, knee and shoulder replacements, all sports medicine procedures including ACL reconstruction surgery, pediatric orthopedic surgery, hand procedures, fracture repair and more. Dr. Wilkerson comes to Winneshiek Medical Center after 30+ years building a successful practice of eight orthopedic surgeons in Spencer, Iowa.

The Winneshiek Medical Center orthopedic practice is supported by the latest in MRI technology, quality skilled care for recovery, and the most specialized physical and occupational therapy practice in the region for successful rehabilitation.

Dr. Wilkerson’s schedule is open and he is accepting new patients at Winneshiek Medical Center. To make an appointment with Dr. Wilkerson, call 563-382-2911.

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November 26, 2019

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mary Marx, Winneshiek Medical Center Marketing Representative

563-387-3020 ● marxm@winmedical.org

Celebrate the season of giving with WMC Auxiliary Light for Life program

The Winneshiek Medical Center Auxiliary invites the community to celebrate the season of giving through the 2019 Light for Life program.

Light for Life is the Auxiliary’s annual community giving campaign.  For a donation of $15 or more, your loved one is honored or remembered with lighted snowflakes in the windows of WMC. The snowflakes light up WMC each night in December.

This year’s WMC Auxiliary Light for Life campaign will support two needs at the medical center: a pediatric safe transport system to help improve the safety of children from newborns to age 10 during ambulance transport; and a mobile Vapotherm compressor so patients can receive this special type of respiratory therapy in any patient room, during testing and during ambulance transports, if needed.

Donations may be made at Winneshiek Medical Center or forms are available at www.winmedical.org/auxiliary through December 31, 2019. Contributions are tax deductible, and a listing of donors will be displayed in Winneshiek Medical Center’s Main Entrance.

For further information, contact the Winneshiek Medical Center Auxiliary at 563-387-3036.

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November 26, 2019

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mary Marx, Director of Marketing & Communications

563-387-3020 ●marxm@winmedical.org

Mental health care expands at Winneshiek Medical Center

Mental health resources and support is one of the top community health needs identified in Winneshiek Medical Center’s Community Health Needs Assessment (June 2019).  To continue to improve regional outpatient access to specialists, Kara Crain, LMHC, has joined the Behavioral Health team at Winneshiek Medical Center.  She joins Ronald Hougen, Ph.D., Bridgette Hensley, Psy, D., Claire Haedike, Psy, D., Hannah Schroeher, LISW, Karen Nielsen, LMSW, and Health Unit Coordinators Rhonda Wyatt and Jessie Corwin.

Crain, a licensed mental health counselor, received her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and community sociology from Wartburg College and her Master of Science in clinical-counseling psychology from Illinois State University.  Originally from Ridgeway, Iowa, Kara has spent the majority of her professional career in the Twin Cities before relocating to Decorah this fall.  She specializes in the treatment of PTSD, personality disorders, mood disorders, and in caring for patients with multiple diagnoses.

Speaking of her practice, Crain says, “Over the years, I have worked with diverse populations using an evidenced-based therapy called Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT. The skills patients learn in DBT help them cope with – and make significant changes to – difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. The overall goal in DBT is to ‘build a life worth living.’  I look forward to offering this type of therapy to people in our region. It can be life-changing, and life-saving.”

Winneshiek Medical Center behavioral health professionals are dedicated to improving the quality of life for all patients. They are available to counsel people of all ages, with different types of mental health problems. Common problems that psychiatrists, psychologists, and independent social workers can help with include stress, lack of self-esteem, anxiety attacks, depression, and family issues. Patients can come in with the comfort of knowing that all counseling sessions are done with privacy and respect.

To make an appointment with a member of Winneshiek Medical Center’s behavioral health team, please call 563-382-2911.

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Cutline: WMC Behavioral Health professionals are dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients.

Seated: Claire Haedike, Psy.D., Ronald Hougen, Ph.D., and Bridgette Hensley, Psy.D.

Back Row: Rhonda Wyatt, Kara Crain, LMHC, Karen Nielsen, LMSW, Hannah Schroeher, LISW, and Jessica Corwin.

The Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston National Remembrance Ceremony on December 14th, 2019 at 11am

One of the goals of Youth Mentoring at Helping Services is to create life-long friendships between area youth and adult mentors. Being a mentor isn’t complicated, it’s just being a friend and spending time with a youth that shares similar interests

Is being a mentor a fit for you? Is the thought of being a mentor intimidating? Have you been thinking about getting involved? All of these questions can be answered at the upcoming Mentoring Social on Thursday, November 21 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Toppling Goliath Brewery in Decorah.

This open house style social is a casual come as you are event. Those who are considering becoming a mentor are invited to come and enjoy appetizers and great conversation. A cash bar will be available. There will be several current mentors attending who will informally share their inspiring stories of mentoring with their youth.

One current mentor shares, “I remember being invited to this event previously and someone saying to just come for the food. I really enjoyed the no-pressure environment and got lots of my questions answered. I am so glad I came and became a mentor. I love being a friend to my youth!”

Youth Mentoring in Allamakee, Howard, and Winneshiek Counties provides an adult mentor who spends a minimum of four hours a month with a youth, ages 6–16. Currently, 50 youth are enjoying time with a mentor and 19 youth are waiting for a mentor. For information on how you can be part of the excitement of mentoring at Helping Services, contact Kathy or Colinne at (563) 387-1720, mentoring@helpingservices.org, or online at www.helpingservices.org/mentoring.

 Serving families since 1973, Helping Services for Youth & Families is dedicated to responding to current health and safety needs of youth and families through empowerment, support, and education.

This article was written by:

Helping Services for Youth & Families

The River Valley Panthers 4-H club is hosting a food drive from November 2nd- November 16th.

There will be boxes at Fareway, Quillins, Hartig Drug, the library and the Allamakee County Extension office.

All of the food will be donated to the food shelf in Waukon.

Telephone Update: Winneshiek Medical Center continues to experience telephone issues that will not be resolved when business hours open on Monday, 11/11.  To manage the large volume of calls we typically receive on Monday, we ask the following:

1. Emergency: Call 911
2. Billing questions: Please call our toll-free number: 844-617-6990
3. To make a clinic appointment for Monday: Please call our main phone number 563-382-2911. We are only able to receive limited calls at a time, so you may hear a busy signal.  There is no menu of options, and no ability to leave a message.  If you receive a busy signal, please hang up and call again.
4. Future appointments: Please wait to call until later in the day on Monday when call volumes generally decrease.
5. Other inquiries: If your need is not immediate, please wait to call until later in the day on Monday, or until we have found a resolution to the telephone issue and the system is working normally again.  We will put out a notice when the system is fixed.
6. Business communication: Email is working.  Please consider emailing instead of calling for business needs.

We truly appreciate your continued patience with this situation.  We know it has caused inconveniences in reaching us.  We are working to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

Could you spot a vaping device? Do you understand the chemicals involved in vaping? Have you heard how dangerous vaping can be? These are a few of the questions that will be answered at an upcoming training on Tuesday, November 12 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Notre Dame School in Cresco.

The training is being hosted by Youth Mentoring at Helping Services for Youth & Families. This topic was selected by mentors as they want to learn more about this dangerous trend. The training is open to everyone that would like to learn more about the dangers, health consequences, and statistics related to vaping.

The presenter is Tessa Willie, Director of Prevention Services at Helping Services. Tessa shares, “We will be discussing local statistics about the heavy use of vaping by area youth. I am excited to give tips for talking with youth and sharing resources to help them quit.”

Youth Mentoring in Allamakee, Howard, and Winneshiek Counties provides an adult mentor who spends a minimum of four hours a month with a youth, ages 6–16. Currently, 50 youth are enjoying time with a mentor, and 19 youth are waiting for a mentor. For information on how you can be part of the excitement of mentoring at Helping Services, contact Kathy or Colinne at (563) 387-1720, mentoring@helpingservices.org, or online at www.helpingservices.org/mentoring.