Community News Stories

The health food incentive program Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) began at Iowa farmers markets in 2016 to help low-income families eat more fruits and vegetables while supporting farmers and growing local economies.

In 2018, Double Up Food Bucks was available at 14 locations across Iowa, including 11 farmers markets and three grocery stores. In 2019, Double Up Food Bucks is expected to reach as many as 150,000 residents in 14 famers markets and 19 grocery stores in 12 counties across Iowa – including the Oneota Community Food Co-op and Winneshiek Farmers Market.

How it works
Double Up Food Bucks provides participants in the SNAP program with a one-to-one match to purchase healthy, locally grown fruits and vegetables. (SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program formerly known as food stamps.)

How to participate
Visit participating locations (Oneota Community Food Co-op, Winneshiek Farmers Market, Fareway Decorah). Pick out your favorite fresh fruits and vegetables. For every $1 you spend on fresh produce with your SNAP EBT card you will earn $1 in Double Up Food Bucks. Earn up to $10 in Double Up Food Bucks per day. Use your Double Up Food Bucks to buy LOCALLY-GROWN, fresh produce at the Co-op and Winneshiek Farmers Market. Use them immediately, or save them for later.

Double Up Food Bucks can be obtained and redeemed at any participating location in Iowa! For more information visit iowahealthieststate.com/double-up-food-bucks.

About Oneota Community Food Co-op
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. Roughly $.45 of every dollar spent at the Co-op stays within 100 miles of the store. Stop in and see us at 312 West Water Street in Decorah, or online at www.oneotacoop.com.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Many Americans enjoy do-it-yourself projects and some Americans make a living in construction. There’s a group of U.S. Navy sailors who apply the same creativity required for DIY endeavors along with the engineering discipline of construction, but with a unique twist. They work underwater. Around the world. In some of the most challenging conditions imaginable including hostile environments, extreme heat or cold, or in remote locations where the only support and supplies they have are the ones they brought with them.
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Griffin Kersting

Senior Chief Petty Officer Liam O’Brien, a 2000 Thomas Roberts High School graduate and native of Decorah, Iowa, is one of these sailors serving at Underwater Construction Team (UCT) 1, which is responsible for underwater construction, inspection, repair and demolition operations supporting both peacetime and wartime missions.

As a Navy constructionman and master diver, O’Brien is responsible for the safe and effective diving operations.

“As a master diver, I’m responsible for life support systems certification,” said O’Brien. “I’m there to keep our Navy divers safe.”

O’Brien credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned growing up in Decorah.

“As an Eagle Scout, I learned about leadership, which carried over into the Navy,” said O’Brien. “Also, going hunting and spending time outdoors helped me a lot when I got in the Navy.”

A key element of the Navy the Nation needs is tied to the fact that America is a maritime nation, according to Navy officials, and that the nation’s prosperity is tied to the ability to operate freely on the world’s oceans. More than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water; 80 percent of the world’s population lives close to a coast; and 90 percent of all global trade by volume travels by sea.

“The sailors who serve as part of the Navy’s Underwater Construction Teams possess a very specialized skill set,” said Lt. Cmdr. James Johncock, UCT-1’s commanding officer. “The work they do is crucial to providing freedom of the seas in both peacetime and wartime. It’s an honor to lead these sailors and I continue to be inspired every day by their commitment to being the absolute best at what they do. The physical and technical abilities underwater construction technicians demonstrate make them some of the most highly trained sailors in the Navy.”

O’Brien is playing an important part in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“Our priorities center on people, capabilities and processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.”

O’Brien has achieved the highest qualified diver qualifications that can be earned in the Navy.

“Master diver qualification is the pinnacle of a diver’s career,” said O’Brien. “There’s a lot of time studying for the written test, but more importantly there are a series simulated casualty drills that require a great deal of physical effort under stress. Ultimately, leadership is the key to success.”

In addition to earning his master diving qualifications, O’Brien is most proud of his family.

“I have a wife of 15 years and I have five children,” said O’Brien. “We’re both really proud of them.”

As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, O’Brien and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.

“The most important thing about serving my country is knowing that I get to help lead others to achieve their goals,” added O’Brien. “We’re like a family here in the Navy. We not only get to know each other at the command, we also get to know and support their family members.”

Caleb Ferring, a skilled trades teacher from Waukon High School participated in a six-week summer STEM externship experience at Trinity Fabricators in New Albin, Iowa to enhance his skills and understanding of the welding industry. Trinity Fabricators is an American Welding Society (AWS) structurally certified welding and fabricating business. Some of the projects to go through the shop during Caleb’s externship included steel structures for agriculture facilities, gas stations, and power plants to name a few. Caleb completed and passed a weld test for an AWS welding certification for GMAW (commonly known as wire welding) in the flat position for unlimited thickness. Caleb plans to incorporate these industry standards into the Welding Career Pathway Certificate classes he will start teaching for Northeast Iowa Community College at the newly remodeled Allamakee Regional Welding Academy located in Waukon this coming school year.

The picture is of Caleb standing next to a set of industrial strength gates he welded during his summer STEM Externship at Trinity Fabricators in New Albin.

Winneshiek County, home to the famous Decorah eagles viewed by millions online, was also recently the location of a successful release of a female bald eagle following several months of rehabilitation due to lead poisoning.

The eagle, Pole Line Road 19 (PLR19), was admitted to Saving Our Avian Resources (SOAR), a raptor rehabilitation, education, and research organization, in February and released on June 27 at Lake Meyer Park, outside of Calmar.

A Team Effort
PLR19 was found in mid-February along Pole Line Road, west of Decorah. Dispatchers received multiple reports of a downed or injured eagle in the road ditch and contacted Winneshiek County Conservation and the Winneshiek County Sherriff’s Office.

“The rescue was a team effort,” says Barb Schroeder, executive director of Winneshiek County Conservation. “Our staff handled the physical collection of the bird, the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office provided traffic control, local volunteers Brian Malaise and Patti Brice got her transported safely to SOAR, and, of course, many people called in to let us know about her in the first place.”

Rehab, Recovery, and Release
When PLR19 was collected, she was unable to hold her head upright and was having seizures. Both are symptoms of high blood lead levels, which was confirmed through tests. SOAR began administering fluids and chelation therapy, a standard treatment for lead poisoning.

Chelation therapy involves twice-daily injections for several days, followed by rest days. Chelation medication binds with lead in the bloodstream so it can be eliminated like other waste from the body.

After the initial weeks of intense care focused on helping PLR19 survive, SOAR was able to transition to a focus on rehabilitating PLR19 to return to the wild by slowly moving her in to larger flight pens. More than four months after her initial admittance, PLR19 was sufficiently recovered and strong enough for release back to the wild.

The release was scheduled to take place close to where PLR19 was initially found, but storms in the area delayed the release and necessitated a clear take-off zone to better protect PLR19. Only a small group was present during the release to reduce stress on PLR19 and she successfully and quickly left the area.

A video of the release is available on the Winneshiek County Conservation Facebook page.

Lead Poisoning and Eagles in Iowa
Lead poisoning is currently the leading cause of death for adult female bald eagles. Fifty percent of eagles admitted to Iowa rehabilitation centers and tested over a period of ten years exhibited elevated blood lead levels. Eagles inadvertently consume lead from animal carcasses and/or gut piles containing lead shot or lead shrapnel.

In addition to the muscle weakness and seizures exhibited by PLR19, eagles suffering from lead poisoning also frequently experience vision impairment, brain swelling, vomiting, paralysis, and organ failure. Only about 10 percent of lead poisoning cases admitted for rehabilitation result in birds being able to be released back to the wild as PLR19 was.

Non-toxic alternatives to lead shot and tackle are now available and effective for all hunters and anglers. For more information, visit www.huntingwithnonlead.org.

SOAR is a 501(c)3 raptor rehabilitation, education, and research organization, established in 1999. More information about SOAR and lead poisoning research can be found at https://soarrpators.org.

 DECORAH, Iowa – Luther alumnus Chris Norton is returning to Decorah to speak about his new book, “The Seven Longest Yards.” He and his wife, Emily Norton, co-authored the book. You can meet the couple and get a signed copy at 7 p.m. Monday, July 1 at Carrie Lee Auditorium.

Norton, a first-year student athlete, was injured in a 2010 football game. He saw an opening for a tackle but mistimed his jump and collided with the ball carrier.

“In an instant I lost all feeling and movement from my neck down. I was told I would never be able to move again,” said Norton.

Since then he has continued to defy the odds. First at his Luther College commencement ceremony in 2015. With the help of his then fiancé, Emily Summers, Norton walked across the stage to receive his diploma.

“I was incredibly nervous and anxious. However, right from the beginning of the walk, the gym erupted with cheers and applause, which was really encouraging,” said Norton. “Then to conquer one of my biggest goals with the help of Emily, who I was going to spend the rest of my life with and in front of people who have been so supportive like family, friends, and my college community was a moment I’ll forever cherish.”

The video of that moment has been viewed more than 300 million times. His next big walk came in 2018. After the couple said their wedding vows, Summers helped Norton out of his wheelchair, they sealed the deal with a kiss and walked seven yards down the isle as husband and wife. Norton says it took seven years to prepare for that moment with Summers helping him each day.

Since graduating from Luther College, Norton has dedicated his life to empowering others to overcome their obstacles.

“It was at Luther College that I discovered how compassionate people are and the power of community.”

Norton says he has seen far too many people go without necessary therapy equipment and assistance to achieve their recovery goals so he started the Chris Norton Foundation. The non-profit works to help people with spinal cord and neuromuscular disabilities lead their best lives. Norton also speaks across the nation and was named a “2018 Hottest Event Keynote Speaker” by ITA Group.

To register for the July 1 event, visit www.dragonflybooks.com/event/norton.

Luther College is home to more than 2,000 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our 60+ academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu

DECORAH, Iowa— A well-known woman of worship will be leading the Luther College student congregation on her path to pastoral work. Vicar Amalia Vagts, a 1995 Luther graduate, is a candidate for word and sacrament ministry in the Northeastern Iowa Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran church in America (ELCA.) Her candidacy is sponsored and supported by her home congregation, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Decorah, Iowa.

All candidates studying to become pastors in the ELCA complete a year of pastoral internship. Vagts’ internship is a collaboration between the Luther College student congregation with supervisor Pastor Anne Edison-Albright and two area congregations: Bethany Lutheran Church in Elkader, Iowa and Emanuel Lutheran Church in Strawberry Point, Iowa with supervisor Pastor Susan Friedrich. “It’s been a few decades since we’ve had a pastoral intern at Luther,” said Pastor Edison-Albright, “Vicar Amalia’s time with us will be renewal of an important aspect of ministry at the college.”

At Luther, Vagts will plan, preach and lead worship as well as intentionally connect with students who are looking for ways to add spiritual practices into their daily lives. “Vicar Amalia brings creativity, curiosity and outstanding communication and leadership skills to every team she’s on,” said Pastor Edison-Albright. “I’m excited to get to continue to work with her in this new way, and to accompany her in everything she’s going to learn and experience about ministry on internship. She brings so much to the campus context and the parishes she’ll be serving this year.”

Vagts graduated from Luther College with degrees in religion and English. She then spent a decade working for reproductive and sexual health as a community organizer, lobbyist and campaign field manager for Planned Parenthood. From 2006 – 2017, Vagts served as executive director of Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries, working in support of LGBTQ ministry leadership in the Lutheran church.

Pastors Edison-Albright and Friedrich expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with a pastoral intern who is openly LGBTQ. “It’s increasingly possible for diverse leaders to answer the call to serve in ministry leadership, and that’s a real blessing for the church,” said Pastor Edison-Albright. “As a member of the LGBTQ community, Vicar Amalia will bring valued new diversity to our ministry teams.”

When describing herself Vagts said, “I love to listen, work, and figure out how to invite people into their true selves. I believe God is alive in the world and seek to live my live in such a way that shows this is true.”

After Vagts’ internship year, she will return to Wartburg Theological Seminary School for a final year of study before beginning the process of ordination and seeking a first call as a pastor.
Luther College is home to more than 2,000 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our 60+ academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.

News from Anatomical Heart Films

Lansing, IA – Mason City native, Iowa State graduate, and 2017-18 Iowa Arts Council Artist Fellow Jack Meggers will be hosting the premiere screening of his short film, The Burial, at TJ Hunter’s in Lansing, IA at 7pm, Thursday, June 20th, 2019. The screening will also be hosted by Allamakee County Economic Development and Tourism.

Last August, Meggers completed principal photography for his short film produced in and around Lansing, IA. Since filming was completed, Meggers has been working on the editing and finishing of his film and is very excited to debut it for many of the people that helped in its creation.

A Q&A session will follow the screening and will be attended by Meggers and his lead actress, Nokomis Leaman-Logsdon, all the way from New York City.

Parents of young children are cautioned: there is some adult language in the film.

The film follows Abby, a young woman of Native American and Caucasian descent (played by New York actress Nokomis Leaman-Logsdon), as she returns to her childhood home in NE Iowa. After receiving word that her estranged father has passed away, she returns to settle her father’s affairs, only to fall in with some childhood friends and ignore her responsibilities. The group makes a startling discovery in the woods and must deal with the consequences of their poor decisions.

This screening is the first of two planned screenings. The second will take place in Des Moines on June 22nd and will be held at the State of Iowa Historical Museum auditorium at 4:30pm.

The natural beauty of the driftless area in the NE corner of Iowa is featured in this short, proof-of-concept film. Meggers wishes to extend great thanks to everyone in Allamakee County and  beyond that made this film possible.

Links of interest:
www.facebook.com/theburialmovie
www.jack.film
Jack Meggers IMDB
Anatomical Heart Films
415 7th Street, Ste 108
West Des Moines, IA 50265

DECORAH, Iowa—Luther College will host the second annual Dorian Choral Retreat for adults from June 28 through June 30, 2019. The public is invited to attend ‘Livssang’, the culminating event of the weekend, at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 30, in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall. ‘Livssang’ will include a performance of the choral repertoire learned during the retreat, sharing of personal stories and a hymn sing led by Pastor Mike Blair, there is no charge for admission.

Designed for Luther alumni, music educators and all who love singing, the choral retreat is meant to be a musical escape. It’s an opportunity to take a break from everyday life, sing alongside music enthusiasts and a time to explore Decorah and all Luther College has to offer.

Weekend highlights include a keynote speech by Bret Amundson titled “Transformational Choral Singing” which will show how the arts – singing in particular – can enliven social justice efforts. Other events include breakout sessions by Luther alumnus Tanya Kruse Ruck, campus pastor Mike Blair and choral faculty Mark Potvin and Jill Wilson. Rehearsals of choral repertoire will be led by Andrew Last, director of choral activities.

The Dorian Choral Retreat is available to anyone at least 19 years of age. Costs are dependent on housing preference. You may choose to stay in the Luther College residence halls, or you may find your own housing option off campus. Specific rates can be found here.

Registration for the retreat is available at https://tinyurl.com/choralretreat, enrollments will be accepted through June 21.

Luther College is home to more than 2,000 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our 60+ academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu

Prairie du Chien, WI – The Crossing Rivers Health Clinic in Prairie du Chien is celebrating five years of caring for the community. In honor of this milestone anniversary, the Clinic is hosting a Customer Appreciation Celebration on Monday, July 1 from 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Patients and community members of all ages, including those who are not clinic patients, are welcome to enjoy a picnic supper consisting of hamburgers, chicken, beef hot dogs, salads, and fruit, along with an inflatable obstacle course for all ages, face painting, and door prizes including one adult and one youth bicycle. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the clinic and meet staff members.

“Our Clinic team is incredibly excited to welcome the community to celebrate our five year anniversary with us,” shared Maria Mathis, Clinic Director. “We are honored that we have the opportunity to provide care to residents of this region. As primary care providers, we truly enjoy the relationships that are created with our patients and their families. This event is a great time to celebrate our patients and our community!”

The Crossing Rivers Health Clinic provides comprehensive family care and services including acute illness care, chronic disease management, DOT and sports physicals, immunizations, Medicare wellness visits, obstetrics and postnatal care, preventative medicine, well-child check-ups, and women’s health services. The board-certified team of Clinic providers include Dr. Walter Downey, Family Medicine Physician; Katy Maker, Certified Nurse Midwife; Sue McMillan, Family Nurse Practitioner; Terri Payne, Certified Nurse Midwife; Brian Quick, Physician Assistant; Charlene Sauer, Family Nurse Practitioner; Molly Schlegel, Certified Nurse Midwife; and Dr. Kenneth Valyo, Doctor of Osteopathic Family Medicine.

The Crossing Rivers Health Prairie du Chien Clinic is located at 37822 US Hwy 18 next to the Medical Center. To learn more about services provided at the Clinic, along with provider videos, patient stories, and information on health topics, visit crossingrivers.org. The Crossing Rivers Health Clinic is now welcoming Dean Health Plan’s Commercial Insurance.

Photo: The Crossing Rivers Health Clinic team is hosting a Customer Appreciation Open House in honor of the Clinic’s five year anniversary of providing care.

Prairie du Chien, WI – A team of four participants from Crossing Rivers Health Cardiac Rehabilitation and Healthy Hearts program recently participated in the 20th Annual Hearts of Gold Games held in Baraboo, Wisconsin. The Crossing Rivers Health team won the first place overall team award, along with six total medals in categories ranging from cooking to basketball, golf, and walking.

Crossing Rivers Health Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Manager Tammy Thompson was proud of the team’s participation. She said, “We have been participating in the games for all 20 years and thank each of the participants for entering these challenging events and representing our organization year after year. Our participants certainly enjoy participating in the Hearts of Gold Games and look forward to the event every year. Participation in these games and belonging to a group exercise program provides an opportunity to form new friendships that otherwise wouldn’t have been formed. These participants reap more than just the medals they win, they reap the benefits of maintaining their long-term health, and living a lifetime of wellness.”

Individuals interested in learning about the Cardiac Rehab, Peripheral Artery Disease Exercise Program, as well as the Healthy Hearts or Pulmonary Rehab programs are encouraged to call Crossing Rivers Health at 608.357.2349 or visit crossingrivers.org to learn more.

Participant results:

• Bake-off –  Female: Dyan Winkers – 2nd place
• Dart Ball – Male: Bob Zwirlein – 2nd place
  Female: Connie Collins – 3rd place
• Putt Putt Golf – Male: Bob Zwirlein – 1st place
• Prediction ½ mile track walk – Female: Connie Collins – 2nd place
• Prediction ¼ mile treadmill walk – Female: Connie Collins – 2nd place

Photo (L to R): The Crossing Rivers Health Hearts of Gold Games team won the first place overall team award, along with six total medals in categories ranging from cooking to basketball, golf, and walking. Team members include: Betty Brietsprecher, Monona; Dyan Winkers, Woodman; Connie Collins, Prairie du Chien; Bob Zwirlein, Monona; and Pat Stovey, Crossing Rivers Health Clinical Exercise Physiologist.

Sponsored by DECORAH BANK & TRUST in cooperation with Decorah Parks and Recreation

On TUESDAY, JUNE 18, slide into summer at the Decorah Municipal Pool! This free, family fun night will be from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, and will include free pool admission, a bouncy house, face painting, and other fun activities. Popcorn will be given away and pizza and other refreshments will be available for purchase.

Winneshiek County Development, Inc. (WCDI) is excited to confirm that Hy-Vee will open a grocery store in Decorah’s Centrum Plaza in the former Quillin’s location. The 25,000 square-foot store will offer a large grocery product offering. Renovations of the existing structure will begin this fall.

Benefiting the Local Community
The store is forecasted to add up to 70 new jobs to the local economy. In addition to the products and services their stores provide, Hy-Vee has a long history of working as partners with the local communities where their stores are located. “Hy-Vee is an outstanding organization and we are excited about their investment and interest in our community,” states Fromm. “Over the years, we have heard many times from community members about their interest in bringing Hy-Vee to our area, and that feedback is what really set off this endeavor.” Local building owners, Kent and Marla Klocke, “We are grateful to WCDI, Decorah Jobs and the city of Decorah for supporting this economic development project that will not only benefit Decorah but our surrounding communities as well.”

Project History
The work to bring Hy-Vee to the area has been a collaborative effort over nearly twelve months when the development group first came to Decorah searching for challenging projects. Stephanie Fromm, Director of WCDI, initiated and fostered the relationship between local business owners Ken and Marla Klocke–owners of the building which will now house Hy-Vee–and project developer Brian Ridge of Ridge Development and commercial real estate professional Ryan Fitzpatrick of Cushman and Wakefield. This fostered relationship resulted in the agreements to purchase the former Quillins Grocery box for redevelopment and eventually lead to the opportunity to develop the building for the Hy-Vee store.

“It is always exciting when you can help fulfill the needs of parties on all ends of a transaction,” states Fromm. “This one project enabled us to assist the Klockes in the transition of their building, utilize existing infrastructure for a new project, and secure a high-quality retailer for our area that will become an anchor tenant that spurs further growth and development of our local economy.”

For more information about the project or the services available through Winneshiek County Development, contact Stephanie Fromm at 563-382-6061 or director@winneshiekdevelopment.org.

DECORAH, Iowa — Vesterheim, the national Norwegian-American museum and heritage center, is grateful to have community partners like Mississippi Welding who are willing to support our Folk Art school classes. Their support serves, not only our community members, but also participants from across the nation enabling many to find their own way to create at Vesterheim! Mississippi Welding provided assistance accessing welding equipment.

Pictured here is metal artist Kelly Ludeking who taught an amazing metal sculpture class at Vesterheim this past weekend.

With world-class exhibitions and 12 historic buildings in scenic Decorah, Iowa, Vesterheim, the national Norwegian-American museum and heritage center, showcases the best in historic and contemporary Norwegian folk and fine arts, and explores the American immigrant experience. This national treasure 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.

Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum & Heritage Center
P.O. Box 379
523 W. Water St.
Decorah, IA 52101

Two upcoming concerts!!

1. The Decorah Municipal Band performs Wednesday, June 26, for Music in the Park in downtown Spring Grove, Minnesota, at 6:30 pm. The band is under the direction of Jim Fritz and Merlyn Finley. Bring a friend and find a cozy place to sit and enjoy the FREE live music! More at decorahmuniband.org.
2. The Decorah Municipal Band performs Thursday, June 27, for Lawn Chair Night in front of the Winneshiek County Courthouse at 7:00 pm. The band is under the direction of Jim Fritz and Merlyn Finley. Bring a friend and find a cozy place to sit and enjoy the FREE live music! More at decorahmuniband.org.

Iowa Organ Donors has sponsored this Saturday’s race (June 15, 2019), come and show support for this great organization. Donations have been pledged, if attendance in grandstands reaches 800 paid spectators, in addition Gundersen helicopter will be landing in the infield to attend this event. A fantastic show is instore for all, come in force, and support this organization.

U.S. Department of the Interior

Bureau of Land Management

Northeastern States District

626 E. Wisconsin Avenue, Ste. 200

Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202

www.BLM.gov/whb

MEDIA ADVISORY

What:

• Approximately 60 wild horses and burros gathered from western public rangelands will be available for adoption in Marshfield, WI.

 Who:

• Media can come out to visit the event to meet adopters and wild horse specialists on Friday and Saturday.

 When:

• Friday, June 14, select your wild horse or burro from 9:00 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday, June 15, select your wild horse or burro from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 Where: 

• Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
  513 East 17^th Street
  Marshfield, WI  54449

Directions:

• Going South on Hwy 97 to McMillian St., turn left on McMillian and take a quick right onto Peach Ave.  Follow Peach Ave. through town to Fair parking areas.                                           

To help maintain an ecological balance on western rangelands and to preserve mustangs as ‘Living Legends’, BLM gathers some horses and burros each year to control the population and offers them to adopters with good homes for the animals.

Wild horses are intelligent, athletic, sure-footed, and many compete in a variety of equine events; they excel in cutting, endurance, western pleasure, and even dressage.

For more information or for assistance in arranging an interview with a past adopter in your area, please contact Public Affairs Specialist, Martha Malik, at (414) 297-1236 or Martha_malik@blm.gov.

Regional Health Services of Howard County in Cresco is encouraging area residents to take a step toward better health with Walk with a Doc, a health program that brings doctors and patients together to walk one Saturday morning a month beginning on Saturday, June 22, 2019 at 9:00 am at Prairie’s Edge Nature Center on Valley Avenue in Cresco.

Walk with a Doc is an international non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire communities through movement and conversation.

The Walk is open to anyone, and participation is free and pre-registration is not required. Walkers will enjoy a refreshing and rejuvenating walk with Dr. David Heine and other healthcare professionals, who will provide support to participants and answer questions during the Walk.  Please bring a water bottle to help stay hydrated during the walk.

Learn more about Walk with a Doc at www.walkwithadoc.org or call Amanda Reicks, RN, Population Health Care Manager and WWAD Project Coordinator at RHSHC in Cresco at 563-547-6644.

Donating blood is safe, simple and it saves lives. It takes just one hour to make a life-saving blood donation, which will impact the lives of up to three different hospital patients. You can make a difference in your community by helping to maintain the local blood supply when you donate blood with LifeServe Blood Center.

Give your life-saving gift at the upcoming blood drive at Winneshiek Medical Center on Friday, June 28 from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm on the lower level of the medical center.

Appointments are recommended, but walk-in donors will be worked into the schedule as time allows. To schedule an appointment, go online to www.lifeservebloodcenter.org or contact Marketing & Communications 563-382-2911 or at communityrelations@winmedical.org.

The LifeServe Blood Center requires all donors to provide identification, such as your Blood Center donor card, driver’s license, etc. Eligible donors must be at least 16 years of age, in general good health and weigh at least 120 pounds.

Prairie du Chien, WI – With speech and language disorders ranking among the most common disabilities in children, parents and caregivers are encouraged to learn the signs—and seek an evaluation—if they have concerns about their child’s ability to communicate. The Crossing Rivers Health speech therapy team includes Nicole Martin, Speech Therapy Manager; Juli Smith, Speech Therapist; Kim MacEachern, Speech Therapist; and Traci Konichek, Birth to Three Coordinator. Together, the team works to assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders in children and adults.

“Development of strong communication skills is extremely important—and parents anxiously await their child’s first words,” said Nicole Martin, Crossing Rivers Health Speech Therapy Manager. “Yet common misconceptions remain. One is that children generally ‘grow out’ of speech or language difficulties. Unfortunately, this mistaken impression too often delays treatment. Of course, some children are indeed ‘late bloomers,’ yet treatment is frequently necessary, too. Good communication skills are critical, helping with behavior, learning, reading, social skills, and friendships. It is much easier, more effective, and less costly to treat speech and language disorders early—and May is a great time to educate parents on this important point.”

Speech and language disorders are evaluated and treated by speech-language pathologists. Speech is the ability to produce speech sounds using the mouth, lips, and tongue. A child may say sounds the wrong way, repeat sounds and words, or be otherwise difficult to understand. Language is the ability to use and put words together—and to understand others’ words. A child may have trouble understanding questions, following directions, or naming objects. Early speech and language treatment sets a child up for future school and social success.

The speech therapy team at Crossing Rivers Health shares some of the following warning signs for parents to watch for in young children:

• Does not babble (4–7 months)
• Makes only a few sounds or gestures, like pointing (7–12 months)
• Does not understand what others say (7 months–2 years)
• Says only a few words (12–18 months)
• Says p, b, m, h, and w incorrectly in words (1–2 years)
• Words are not easily understood (18 months–2 years)
• Does not put words together to make sentences (1.5–3 years)
• Says k, g, f, t, d, and n incorrectly in words (2–3 years)
• Produces speech that is unclear, even to familiar people (2–3 years)
• Repeating the first sounds of words, like “b-b-b-ball” for “ball” (any age)
• Stretching sounds out, like “fffffarm” for “farm” (any age)

For school-age children, warning signs may include the following:

• Has trouble following directions
• Has problems reading and writing
• Does not always understand what others say
• Is not understood by others
• Has trouble talking about thoughts or feelings

The speech therapy team also offers parents these tips to encourage a child’s communication development:

For young children:

• Talk, read, and play with your child.
• Listen and respond to what your child says.
• Talk with your child in the language that you are most comfortable using.
• Teach your child to speak another language, if you speak one.
• Talk about what you do and what your child does during the day.
• Use a lot of different words with your child.
• Use longer sentences as your child gets older.
• Have your child play with other children.

For elementary-age children:

• Have your child retell stories and talk about their day.
• Talk with your child about what you do during the day. Give them directions to follow.
• Talk about how things are the same and how things are different.
• Give your child chances to write.

• Read every day. Find books or magazines that interest your child.

Although treatment ideally begins early—in the toddler years—it is never too late to get treatment. The large majority of parents report significant improvement after treatment. To schedule an assessment at Crossing Rivers Health, call 608.357.2339 or visit crossingrivers.org/speech.

Photo (L to R): The Crossing Rivers Health speech therapy team includes Nicole Martin, Speech Therapy Manager; Juli Smith, Speech Therapist; Kim MacEachern, Speech Therapist; and Traci Konichek, Birth to Three Coordinator.

DECORAH, Iowa — Vesterheim, the national Norwegian-American museum and heritage center, was pleased to once again have the volunteers from Decorah’s Town and Country Garden Club fill the planters at Vesterheim with beautiful flowers this Spring. The flowers were made possible by the generous support of FreedomBank of Decorah, formerly Farmers and Merchants Bank. FreedomBank is a long time Vesterheim Corporate Member. “Nothing says ‘Velkommen’ with warm hospitality more then an inviting entry filled with spring garden plantings!” Kristen Heine, Vesterheim Major Gifts Officer, said.

Pictured here seated left to right: Roger Buhr and LaVonne Monson, volunteers of the Decorah Town and Country Garden Club. Standing left to right: Chris Johnson, Vesterheim CEO, Maureen Duncklee, FreedomBank VP and Branch Manager, Diane Brondyke, Vesterheim Director of Development, Karen Henning and Rachel Gannon FreedomBank Decorah Branch staff.

With world-class exhibitions and 12 historic buildings in scenic Decorah, Iowa, Vesterheim, the national Norwegian-American museum and heritage center, showcases the best in historic and contemporary Norwegian folk and fine arts, and explores the American immigrant experience. This national treasure 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.

June 1, 2019

Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah has installed the latest MRI technology for patients.  The new digital MRI machine provides flexibility in scanning options and exceptional image quality.  Additionally, it has an increased weight capacity, offers more room for patients during the exam, and is quieter for patient comfort.

Tasha Croell, director of WMC Radiology, says, “The new MRI features a larger opening, soft lighting and soothing fans to lessen the ‘claustrophobic’ feeling of our prior scanner. With it, our MRI team will be able to produce higher-quality imaging, quicker diagnosis, swifter patient flow, enhanced comfort, and reduced wait times overall. We are very excited to be able to offer this incredible technology to our patients!”

What is MRI?

MRI is the common term for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. MRI is a non-invasive type of scan that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body.  An MRI scanner is a large tube that contains powerful magnets.  The patient is positioned within the tube during the scan.

MRI is useful in diagnosing disorders of the central nervous system, joints, abdominal and pelvic organs, and circulatory system.

An accredited team

Since 2011, the Winneshiek Medical Center MRI team has maintained the American College of Radiology Gold Seal of Accreditation for providing the highest level of MRI image quality and patient safety.  The Gold Seal of Accreditation is awarded only to facilities meeting American College of Radiology Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed.

Request a referral to Winneshiek Medical Center

If your doctor recommends an MRI, request a referral to Winneshiek Medical Center Radiology.  We provide MRI exams daily.  We serve everyone in our region, and will send the results to the doctor of your choosing.  Call Winneshiek Medical Center Radiology at 563-387-3022 to learn more about leading-edge imaging technology available locally.

Lansing, IA – The Allamakee County Conservation Foundation is pleased to award Brooke Wasson with a 2019 Conservation Scholarship in the amount of $500.00.  One of the Foundation’s many goals is to support area youth who are interested in careers in conservation.  Wasson is planning on attending Iowa State in the fall where she intends to double major in Environmental Science and Spanish.

The Allamakee County Conservation Foundation Scholarship is available to seniors graduating from an Allamakee County school including Postville, Allamakee Community and Eastern Allamakee Schools with plans on entering a conservation field after attending a two or four year school.  To learn more on how you can support the Allamakee County Conservation Foundation Scholarship please contact the Driftless Area Educaiton and Visitors Center at (563)538-0401.  Congratulations Brooke!

Pictured from left to right: Board member Gary Krapfl, Brooke Wasson, board member Jeannie Carrol, board member Jessie Delaney.

Making a difference in someone’s life is truly inspiring. It can be even more meaningful when a youth’s life is changed to head at things in a more positive way.

Isaac is eight years old. He is often late for school. Not on Tuesday’s. His mother shares, “Every Tuesday he jumps out of bed and shares that he gets to have lunch with his friend, Carl.” He beams knowing that he gets time with his mentor.

Youth Mentoring at Helping Services for Youth & Families is hosting an inspiring event called a Mentor Social on Tuesday, June 18 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at T-Bock’s Underground. Those who are considering becoming a mentor and spending a minimum of four hours per month with a youth 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 volunteering with their youth.

One current mentor shares, “I remember being invited to this event previously and someone saying 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 5–16. Currently, 44 youth are enjoying time with a mentor, and 29 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.

Lansing, IA – June 5th, 2019
Mason City native, Iowa State graduate, and 2017-18 Iowa Arts Council Artist Fellow Jack Meggers will be hosting the premiere screening of his short film, The Burial, at TJ Hunter’s in Lansing, IA at 7pm, Thursday, June 20th, 2019. The screening will also be hosted by Allamakee County Economic Development and Tourism.

Last August, Meggers completed principal photography for his short film produced in and around Lansing, IA. Since filming was completed, Meggers has been working on the editing and finishing of his film and is very excited to debut it for many of the people that helped in its creation.

A Q&A session will follow the screening and will be attended by Meggers and his lead actress, Nokomis Leaman-Logsdon, all the way from New York City.

Parents of young children are cautioned: there is some adult language in the film.

The film follows Abby, a young woman of Native American and Caucasian descent (played by New York actress Nokomis Leaman-Logsdon), as she returns to her childhood home in NE Iowa. After receiving word that her estranged father has passed away, she returns to settle her father’s affairs, only to fall in with some childhood friends and ignore her responsibilities. The group makes a startling discovery in the woods and must deal with the consequences of their poor decisions.

This screening is the first of two planned screenings. The second will take place in Des Moines on June 22nd and will be held at the State of Iowa Historical Museum auditorium at 4:30pm.
The natural beauty of the driftless area in the NE corner of Iowa is featured in this short, proof-of-concept film. Meggers wishes to extend great thanks to everyone in Allamakee County and beyond that made this film possible.

Links of interest:
www.facebook.com/theburialmovie
www.jack.film
Jack Meggers IMDB
Anatomical Heart Films
415 7th Street, Ste 108
West Des Moines, IA 50265

Recycle your old hearing aids to benefit patients through Winneshiek Medical Center’s hearing aid recycling program

 Winneshiek Medical Center Decorah Clinic Audiology is pleased to partner with Starkey Hearing Foundation to offer a hearing aid recycling program. The program, in partnership with Winneshiek Medical Center Foundation, allows anyone to donate any brand of used hearing aids which are in turn sent in for rebate dollars from Starkey Foundation. The rebate dollars are allocated to patients who need assistance paying for hearing aids or hearing aid supplies.

“We are able to refurbish some of the donated hearing aids to loan out to patients as well,” says Cynthia See, Au.D., Mayo Clinic Health System audiologist at WMC Decorah Clinic. “Patients appreciate the opportunity to wear these demo models to experience how hearing aids can change their quality of life before making a decision to purchase.”

To donate used hearing aids, simply contact Winneshiek Medical Center Foundation and you may request a tax-deductible donation receipt if you choose.  “We’re pleased to be a partner for this program,” says Holly Kanengeiter, WMC Foundation coordinator. “It’s another way we can address the health needs of our community and support those patients who are dealing with hearing loss.”

Winneshiek Medical Center Audiology specializes in evaluating and treating patients with hearing loss. In addition to fitting hearing aids, Dr. See can help with concerns about hearing, ringing of the ears, dizziness, ear fullness, ear drainage, and more. Top-quality hearing products/supplies are available at Decorah Clinic lower level reception desk.  Including hearing aid batteries (by the pack or case), audiowipes, dehumidifiers, wax guards and wax loops. For more information on the WMC hearing aid recycling program or audiology services, visit www.winmedical.org/audiology.

Medicare Questions? SHIIP can help.

SHIIP (Senior Health Insurance Information Program) is a program through the State of Iowa – staffed by trained volunteers – that provides free informational materials as well as one-to-one assistance with:

• Medicare coverage
• Medicare supplement insurance
• Medicare Part D assistance and enrollment (prescription insurance)
• Long-term care insurance
• Medicare and insurance claims
• Other related issues

SHIIP does not endorse insurance companies, plans or agents; the volunteers answer questions and provide impartial information to help seniors make well-informed decisions. SHIIP is available to help if you:

• Are going on Medicare
• Are over age 65, on Medicare, and have questions
• Are on disability with Medicare and Medicaid

SHIIP volunteers are available by appointment at Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah by calling 563-387-3036.

The Decorah Municipal Band performs this Thursday, June 6, at Lawn Chair Night in front of the Winneshiek County Courthouse at 7:00 pm. The band is under the direction of Jim Fritz and Merlyn Finley. Bring a friend and find a cozy place to sit and enjoy the live music! More at www.decorahmuniband.org.

Decorah, Iowa, 05/30/19 –

The Oneota Community Food Co-op hosted a “Round-Up at the Register” campaign May 6^th through May 20th. 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 Neighbors Helping Neighbors. The campaign held in May raised over $1,400.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors is a fund established by Decorah UCC to assist immigrants and their families in rebuilding their lives following an immigration related crisis. This community effort is funded through individual donations, local congregations, and local organizations. Funds currently assist local families in need of items such as household supplies and beds as they establish new homes following release from ICE custody.

For more information about Neighbors Helping Neighbors at Decorah UCC, check out decorahucc.org/neighbors.

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 see us at 312 West Water Street in Decorah, or online at www.oneotacoop.com.

Pictured in photo: (left to right) Laura Wright, Decorah UCC, David Lester, Oneota Community Food Co-op.

Did you know that about 25% of the Decorah Community School District is on free and reduced lunch? Food needs are present for families in the Decorah region. Whether its due to economic means or simply busy summer schedules, a community-driven program called “Kids Lunch Club” has served Decorah families for three summers and is returning again for its fourth summer. The program serves free grab-and-go lunches to any child. The program will run every weekday starting June 10. Children can pick up one free lunch per day at John Cline Elementary from 12-12:30 p.m. or at Freeport Park from 12:45-1 p.m. No registration is taken for participation. Meals include fresh fruits and vegetables, snacks, and protein sources.

Thanks to the generous support of the Decorah community, the Kids Lunch Club initiative served 4,122 lunches over its first three summers. This collaborative program is run entirely through local monetary donations from faith communities, businesses, and individuals. Volunteers pack lunches based on a rotating menu. Additional volunteers help with distribution of meals. For additional information, to donate, or to volunteer, visit www.kidslunchclub.org.

Houston, MN

Treat your taste buds to a locally sourced artisan breakfast of buckwheat shortcake fruit tarts with Paskha goat cheese; pinwheel quiche with fresh shiitake mushrooms, spinach and gruyère cheese; wild boar bacon; strawberry shrub; and locally roasted fair trade organic coffee. The event will feature a chance to meet the Center’s live owl ambassadors, the story of the Owl Center, and a live auction. You’ll also go home with your choice of exceptional owl art created by talented children from all over the world. All proceeds from the event will go toward acquiring the building site for the Owl Center’s future home.

The intriguing array of auction items includes a Japanese dinner for eight in New Brighton, MN, a one-of-a-kind locally made English Grolleg porcelain owl vase, a one-night stay and breakfast for two at the Hilton-Mall of America, wine baskets, chocolate bourbon pecan pie, Kahlua brownies, winning artwork from our international children’s owl art contest from prior years, and much more.

Local producers donating their goods to put on the breakfast include Schech’s Mill, Buffalo Gal, Carlson Roasting Company, Ethan’s Eggs, Valley of the Goats, Wold Strawberry Farm, and Brian Lee.

Cost to participate in the Breakfast with the Owls is $75/person or $600 for a table of eight. For those who cannot attend, proxy bidding on auction items is possible. For more information or to register go to www.InternationalOwlCenter.org. Please register by June 21.

Winneshiek Medical Center is pleased to welcome Ericka Moudry, PA-C, to Decorah Clinic.  Ericka joins Mayo Clinic Health System specialist Brad Orvis, M.D. in providing urology care to people of our region.

Dr. Orvis says, “I am very excited to add Ericka to the urology practice here at WMC. She has 15 years of experience as a health care provider and is an excellent clinician. Working as a team, she will allow us to meet the urology needs of our patients more efficiently and effectively.”

Urology at Winneshiek Medical Center provides expert care for male and female patients of all ages who suffer from problems of the urinary tract. The field of urology diagnoses and treats disorders of the male reproductive system as well, including prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment and support.

The urology program at Winneshiek Medical Center specializes in:

• Treatment for enlarged prostate, including laser therapy
• Laser surgery to fragment kidney stones
• Vasectomy
• Female incontinence
• Vaginal prolapse
• Cancer care: bladder, prostate, kidney, testis

A Protivin, Iowa  native, Ericka earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from Iowa State University and her Masters Degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Des Moines University-Osteopathic Medical Center.  Since 2004, she has been working in cardiothoracic surgery and gynecology in Des Moines, Houston, Texas and most recently, St. Paul, Minnesota. She says, “I enjoy procedure-based medicine, which is partly what drew me to the urology practice at Winneshiek Medical Center.  Dr. Orvis has built a valuable service in this community, and people trust him and his care.  I look forward to being part of that team.”

The urology practice is accepting new patients at Winneshiek Medical Center. To make an appointment, call 563-382-2911.

Cutline: Ericka Moudry, PA-C joins Brad Orvis, M.D. in providing urology care at Winneshiek Medical Center Decorah Clinic.

Direct access to physical and occupational therapy is now available at Winneshiek Medical Center, meaning patients can schedule appointments with therapists without a doctor’s referral.  Jason Engelken, physical therapist and athletic trainer, says, “We see patients directly for muscle weakness or stiffness, sciatic pain, wrist or thumb pain, chronic headaches and so many other issues we face.  For people looking to improve their athletic performance, we also offer runner’s analysis, biker’s analysis and training support.”

Winneshiek Medical Center offers comprehensive rehabilitation services for people of all ages and conditions. Our highly-trained staff includes licensed physical and occupational therapists, including sports certified specialists; an orthopedic clinical specialist; certified hand therapists; certified athletic trainers; certified speech language pathologists; and registered nurses.

Specialty programs include:

• Acute Care
• Balance & Fall Prevention
• Cardiac Rehab
• Dementia Care
• Gait Analysis
• Geriatric
• Hand Therapy
• Home Health
• Industrial Rehab
• Lymphedema
• Neurological Rehab
• Orthopedic/Post-surgical Rehab
• Pediatric
• Pilates
• Pulmonary Rehab
• Skilled Nursing
• Sports Excel Programs
• Sports Medicine
• Sports Physicals
• Ultrasound Mist Therapy
• Vestibular Rehab
• Women’s Health, including Urinary Incontinence Retraining
• Wound Care

Appointments with physical and occupational therapists are conveniently available at the Winneshiek Medical Center Rehab Clinics in Decorah, Ossian, Calmar, Postville and Spring Grove.  Therapists will work with you to determine the best plan of care for your individual needs and goals.   Physical and occupational therapy is covered by most insurance plans.  To make an appointment at any of the Winneshiek Medical Center Rehab Clinic locations, call 563-387-3031.

 Photo – Rehab department picture – \Wmc01dept docsMarketing and CommunicationsPhotographyREHABILITATION and SPORTS MEDICINE2019 Department Photos

Cutline: Direct access to physical and occupational therapy is now available at Winneshiek Medical Center, meaning patients can schedule appointments with therapists without a doctor’s referral. Appointments with physical and occupational therapists are conveniently available at the Winneshiek Medical Center Rehab Clinics in Decorah, Ossian, Calmar, Postville and Spring Grove. Call 563-387-3031 to schedule.

TO: Northeast Iowa Newspapers/Radio Stations
FROM: Clayton County Conservation Board
DATE: May 28, 2019
NEWS RELEASE—FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Osborne Park featured on State of Iowa’s “99 Counties, 99 Parks” list

Osborne Park in Clayton County is one of 99 county parks featured in a new effort announced by the State of Iowa today to encourage residents and visitors alike to explore Iowa’s outdoors. The “99 Counties, 99 Parks” initiative highlights the wide array of recreational activities the state has to offer within its county parks.

“Iowa’s county parks are great places to feed your sense of adventure,” said Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. “We have an abundance of natural beauty in this state and we’re thrilled to issue an invitation for people to experience it first-hand. I know my family will be outside exploring all our county parks have to offer this summer, so I hope my fellow Iowans will join us.”
The “99 Counties, 99 Parks” initiative features one county conservation-managed park in each of Iowa’s 99 counties. Individuals are encouraged to visit traveliowa.com/99parks to browse parks by interest (or view all 99) and find the parks that best fit their needs. In addition to traditional activities like fishing, boating and hiking, the list includes parks with golf courses, archery ranges, disc golf courses, observation towers, eco-cruises, Olympic-sized swimming pools and luxury cabins.

“In addition to being beautiful, our county parks play an important role in Iowa,” said Gov. Reynolds. “Research shows that natural beauty and outdoor activities are key qualities in places where individuals want to travel or live. We think the ‘99 Counties, 99 Parks’ initiative is another great way to help spread the good word and surprise people about Iowa.”
Families are encouraged to download the “99 Counties, 99 Parks” Family Fun Guide. Available on the “99 Counties, 99 Parks” website, the guide features a variety of activities, including recipes, a scavenger hunt and art projects as well as information on geocaching and creating nature sculptures.

Participants can track their visits to the featured parks on the “99 Counties, 99 Parks” checklist. Many of the parks also include “selfie stands” where visitors can take photos and share their experiences on social media using #ThisIsIowa or #99parks.

—————————————–End Press Release——————————————-

ArtHaus is pleased to be bringing the artists from Fire Farm Lighting Company in Elkader to Deocrah with a showcase of freestanding illuminated sculptures on display from May 31 through June 28.

“Each Fire Farm artist was given opportunity to create a free-standing illuminated sculpture out of scrap pieces of acrylic thermo-formed in our oven. They are dramatic and very organic,” says FireFarm owner Adam Pollock.

Inspired Media is sponsoring the show, which can be viewed for free at the ArtHaus Gallery at 508 West Water Street from 1 pm-5pm Monday – Friday. Artists will be greeting guests at a gallery opening this Friday, May 31 from 7-8 pm.

Full details about the show may be found at www.arthausdecorah.org.

TO: Northeast Iowa Newspapers/Radio Stations

FROM: Abbey Harkrader, Clayton County Conservation Board

DATE: Jan 29th, 2019

NEWS RELEASE—FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

O.W.L.S.
“The McGregor Wildlife School”
Thursday, June 20th
Reservations Required
Osborne Nature Center

Osborne’s Older, Wiser, Livelier, Souls will continue the “Conservation Heroes” series on June 20th with a visit to the McGregor Museum to learn about the historic McGregor Wildlife School.

Iowa has a long history of important and famous conservationists who were an active part of the McGregor Wildlife School. Come learn who these conservation heroes were, what the school was, and the things the school achieved. Make your reservation today by calling (563) 245-1516 or visit the Osborne Nature Center. Shuttle will leave Osborne at 10:30.

The Osborne Center is located on Highway 13, ten miles north of Strawberry Point or five miles south of Elkader. The center is open from 8:00am to 4:00pm, Monday-Saturday and 12:00pm to 4:00pm Sundays. Please call 563-245-1516 for more information or visit www.claytoncountyconservation.org.

—————————————–End Press Release ———————————————–

Friday May 24th

• The Tomah VA Medical Center will host a Memorial Day Ceremony on Friday at 10am at the Veterans Hall in Tomah.

Sunday May 26th

• On Sunday May 26th the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston will host a Memorial Service. The public is invited to attend. There will be music beginning at 1:30 and a 2pm Ceremony.
• Clermont American Legion will host a Memorial Day pancake breakfast on Sunday from 8 am to 1pm at the Clermont Opera House along with Auxiliary bake sale and silent Auction
• There will be a Memorial Weekend Pancake breakfast on Sunday from 7a m to noon at the Harpers Ferry Fire stations

Monday May 27th

• The Wadena legion will be hosting their legion Memorial Services on Monday at 10:30 at the Wadena All Veterans Memorial. There will be Dinner to follow at the Legion Hall.
• Harpers Ferry/Waterville Memorial Day Parade and Program will be held on Monday May 27th. Beginning at the Old East Paint Creek Cemetery at 7:15, Waterville at 7:45, Cherry Mound at 8a, Paint Rock at 8:15, Cota Creek Bridge at 8:30, Harper Ferry Sandy Point Cemetery at 8:40. Then a memorial mass will be held at St Ann St Joseph Church at 9am, parade to follow at approximate 10am. Parade line up begins at 8:30 and transportation will be provided for those unable to March in the parade. The Legion and it’s Auxiliary will also be having a pork chop dinner at 11am.
• Waukon Community Meals will be serving Memorial Day Supper at the First Presbyterian Church in Waukon on Monday from 5 to 7pm.
• There will be a Memorial Day lunch held at the Hauge Lutheran church, rural Decorah, on Monday from 11am to 1pm.
• Decorah memorial Day services will be observed beginning with a parade at the West Decorah Bridge at 10am. The parade, featuring Grand Marshals Howie Bernatz and Bob McQueen, will process to the courthouse where Memorial day ceremonies will continue featuring speaker Jim Burns. All Veterans who wish to participate in the parade should meet at 5th Ave at 9:30, for those unable to march there will be a flatbed trailer provided. Decorah Quilts of Valor will be conducting a presentation ceremony at 3pm at the VFW Post in Decorah. They will be awarding quilts of valor to Mel Macal, Pat Corrigan, Collyn Bridges, Ferneva Brimacomb, Tom Klimesh, Dennis Fisher, Ray Koshatka, Jim Mensen, Larry Elf Lectenburg and Chuck Humpal.
• There will be a Memorial Day pancake breakfast serving from 8am to 11am at New Hope Methodist Church in Red Mound Wisconsin. Carry outs will be available and there will also be a bake sale.
• The Waukon Memorial Day Parade, muster time 9:15, step off 9:45, is going to be rerouted due to construction. It will start out in the St. Pats parking lot and individuals may park there or in the parking lot behind Waukon State Bank. The parade will head east on 1st Ave SW toward Kwik Star. The parade will then head south (right at Kwik Star) on Rossville Rd and run all the way to the Oakland Cemetery. Should the parade be canceled due to weather, the program will still take place at the Waukon Reception Center on Rossville Rd. Avenue of flags will not be put out this year due to construction and possibility of rain. However, we will be putting out the 18 KIA flags only at the cemetery Saturday morning. For the Memorial Day dinner at the vets club, there is parking in the city parking lot south of the courthouse, the two courthouse parking lots, behind the Vets Club and the Farm Bureau Building.
• The Mabel VFW Post will be conducting Memorial Day Services beginning at Highland Lutheran Cemetery at 7:30, then Hesper Lutheran at 8:30, Hesper Public at 9am, Burr Oak at 9:45am, Henrytown at 10:15, Prosper at 10:45. They will march from the Mabel Legion to the Steam Engine grounds at 11:20 am with a program, featuring speaker Eddie Macha and music by the Mabel-Canton band, will be held at the Steam Engine Grounds beginning at 11:30. There will be a potluck meal held after the services at the Mabel American legion. In case of rain the program will be held at the High School Auditorium
• The American Legion in Spring Grove will be having a program on Monday beginning with a parade from the school to Viking Memorial park at 9:45. The program begins at 10am featuring speaker Legion Commander Anne Doering and music by the Spring Grove High School Band and decoration of crosses by the Boy and Girl Scout troops of Spring Grove. In case of inclement weather the program will be held at the school
• High Roller Skating Centers in LaCrosse and Eau Claire will be hosting skates on Monday from noon to 4pm to raise money for the A Million thanks Fund a Scholarship program that raises fund to provide higher education scholarships for children of fallen military members. 50% of all center admissions will be donated. For more information log on to high roller skating dot com
• McGregor memorial Day Events begin with a memorial service at St Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, a parade leaving MFL MarMac Middle school at 10 processing to the riverfront and there will be a memorial service at 11am at Pleasant Grove Cemetery featuring speaker Mike Ayers.
• New Albin memorial day services will be held at 9am at the Community Center featuring music by the Kee Middle School Band and readings from the book Veterans from the Heartland by Maury Gallagher and a presentation of Quilts by the NEIA Quilters.
• Lansing Memorial Day services begin at 7:30 on Monday morning at Wexford Cemetery, then to Gethsemane Cemetery at 8:15 , 8:30 am flag raising at Thornton Manor, 9am flag raising at Mount Hosmer and a Navy Remembrance Ceremony at Sweeney’s Boat Landing at 10am. There will be a parade at 10:15 and a program at Oak Hill Cemetery at 11am featuring music from the Kee High school Band and a memorial day address by Dustin Benzing. If it is raining the program will be held at Kee High School.
• American legion Post 467, Spillville/Ridgeway will host Memorial Day Services at the Ridgeway United Lutheran Cemetery beginning at 9:30 featuring speaker Dan O’Brian.
• A Memorial Day program will be hosted by members of the Belding Fox Slagle Legion Post 189 at 10:00 a.m., Monday, May 27 in front of the Waucoma Veterans Memorial. Following the program, all are invited to the Waucoma Event Center for coffee and treats. In case of rain the program will be held at the Waucoma Event Center.
• The Calmar Memorial Day observance will begin with visits to cemeteries. Veterans will start the day at Springfield Lutheran at 7:30 a.m. and then move to Calmar Lutheran at 7:45 a.m., Festina at 8 a.m., St. Aloysius at 8:15 a.m. and Lake Meyer at 9 a.m. The day’s observances will conclude at the Winneshiek County Freedom Rock in Calmar at 9:30 a.m. A Memorial Service will take place at the South Winneshiek Auditorium at 10 a.m. Robert Gross, administrator at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, is the planned speaker with the Rev. Robert Gross as clergy.

Iowa Gov Kim Reynolds and Lt Gov Adam Gregg were in our area this week and Josh Blake was able to catch up with Gov Reynolds at Toppling Goliath to discuss new bills she’s signed. To see more details about those bills click the link below.

Decorah Parks and Recreation is partnering with local yoga instructors to offer Free Yoga in the Park Saturdays, 10-11am, June thru August. This program will be held in the green space west of John Cline School. Bring your own mat or towel (limited supply available). No need to register, just show up! For a complete calendar and list of instructors visit https://parks.decorahia.org/. Yoga in the Park is sponsored by Gundersen Health Clinic and Winneshiek Medical Center.

The Allamakee Community School District is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Meals will be provided, at a first come, first serve basis, at the site and times as follows:

Waukon Middle School
Mondays-Fridays, June 3rd -June 28th & August 5th -August 16th
Breakfast 8:00am-9:00am
Lunch 11:15am-12:45pm

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at:
http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

1. mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture
   Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
   1400 Independence Avenue, SW
   Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;
2. fax: (202) 690-7442; or
3. email: program.intake@usda.gov.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Iowa Non-Discrimination Statement:
“It is the policy of this CNP provider not to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or religion in its programs, activities, or employment practices as required by the Iowa Code section 216.6, 216.7, and 216.9. If you have questions or grievances related to compliance with this policy by this CNP Provider, please contact the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, Grimes State Office building, 400 E. 14th St. Des Moines, IA 50319-1004; phone number 515-281-4121, 800-457-4416; website: https://icrc.iowa.gov/.”