Community News Stories

Helping Services for Youth & Families is highlighting Teen Dating Violence Awareness during the month of February. According to the CDC, nearly a quarter of adult victims of rape, physical violence and stalking by an intimate partner first experience partner violence between the ages of 11 and 17. In addition, nearly 1 in 11 female and approximately 1 in 14 male high school students report having experienced physical dating violence in the last year. 

Dating violence is not only physical abuse but may also include excessive texting, checking up on, or telling you what to wear or who to hang out with are just a few tactics abusers may use to control their partner. Abusive relationships are all about power and control, and abusive patterns can start at any age.

The Domestic Abuse Resource Center is able to help and all of our services are free and confidential. For information on services or to speak with an advocate, call us on our 24-hour resource line at 800-383-2988 or chat with us at HelpingServices.org/Chat. Everyone deserves to be in a happy and healthy relationship.

The Iowa Brewery Running Series announces their beer run with Toppling Goliath!

We are the Iowa Brewery Running Series and we run for beer!

Join us at Toppling Goliath on June 18th for a 5kish course that starts and ends at this award-winning taproom in Decorah! Weave through the surrounding area at whatever pace you like, no matter what there’s a beer waiting for you at the finish line!

What’s included?! All participants receive:

• FREE craft brew from Toppling Goliath!
• Your choice of a collector’s pint glass or seasonal swag item from the Brewery Running Series
• Your chance to win sweet door prizes, like Brewery Running Series merchandise or a growler to take home
• Access to event festivities, games, goodies and giveaways
• And more!

We are all about being active, having fun and giving back to our local community. Since our inaugural event (the Brewery Running Series was founded in Minnesota in 2012), we have been able to donate over $200,000 back to local nonprofits. This event will add to that tally and go towards The Spectrum Network who serve adults with various disabilities and challenges in the Decorah area. So not only do you get to a little exercise and enjoy a great beer, you are contributing to our awesome community!

For more information visit www.breweryrunningseries.com/iowa

Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A) has resumed monthly in-person support group meetings. The meetings will be held on the 3^rd Monday of each month from 10:00 to 11:00 am in the Education Room of the Spectrum Network building, located at 607 Washington Street, in Decorah. Masks are recommended, and anyone experiencing COVID symptoms should stay home. A phone-in or Zoom option is also available for convenience.

Kelly Kuennen, a social worker from NEI3A, will facilitate the meeting. The next meeting will take place on January 17 at 10:00 am. This is a free group, and all caregivers of elderly or disabled persons are welcomed and encouraged to attend. No reservations are needed. If you are interested in the meeting and need more information, please contact Kelly Kuennen, Family Caregiver Specialist at NEI3A, at 563-277-6024

Prom Dress Consignment Sale Elkader Iowa

ALLAMAKEE COUNTY VETERANS MUSEUM

The Allamakee County Veterans Museum will observe Pearl Harbor Day on December 7th by offering a program to the public in the Program Room of its new museum in the former Vet’s Club building in Waukon.  

On Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. a video documentary will be presented about the Japanese air raid on the U.S. Naval and Air Bases at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii Islands, which marked the entry of the United States into the Second World War.  

The Pearl Harbor documentary will be preceded by a video that museum staff are calling “The last summer of peace in Waukon before the War.”  It includes movie film shot in downtown Waukon in the summers of 1940-41 by the Cote family for entertainment viewing in their newly opened Town Theatre.   Staff encourages you to try to spot and identify relatives and family friends depicted in the film, and enjoy a nostalgic look back at the “good old days.”  Period vehicles, dress, and businesses are featured, with candid closeups of people about town.

The program room currently seats about 45 people.  Due to Covid concerns, masks are encouraged but not required.  There is no admission or membership charge. The facility is handicapped accessible.  Light refreshments will be available. 

The museum remodeling was finished in late summer.  Preparation and installation of exhibits is underway and should be completed by Memorial Day 2022.  Tours will not be offered until the exhibits have been completed.  However, educational programs will continue to be offered periodically.

Northeast Iowa Community Action Early Head Start is accepting applications. The program serves pregnant women and children birth to three years old. The program provides weekly home visits to help parents be their child’s first and most important teacher. Socializations and playgroups are held for families to participate in. If you live in Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard & Winneshiek counties contact Northeast Iowa Community Action .

Have you thought about becoming a mentor? Tuesday, November 9 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at T-Bocks Upstairs; Youth Mentoring at Helping Services is hosting a Mentoring Social. 

This is the perfect event to attend to find out more about how YOU can become involved. Mentors will informally share stories about the impact mentoring has on their youth and them as an adult, the dire need for boys to have male role models, and the ways you can get started so that you are comfortable with being a mentor. 

All adults are invited to come and connect with others about mentoring. It is the event for you to attend or bring along a friend that you know who will make a great mentor. Everyone will enjoy socializing and free appetizers. Drinks will be available for purchase.This event is open house style. Come and stay the whole time or come for a portion of the time. 

There are many options available to mentors. Community mentors spend a minimum of four hours per month with their youth doing things that they both enjoy like going to a ball game, enjoying a meal together, or going for a walk. School-based mentors meet their youth for one hour per week in their building. This option is available in the Decorah and Howard-Winneshiek School Districts. Mentors can be individuals, two buddies assigned to one youth, and families. There are also part-time mentors who attend the events that fit their schedule.

Youth Mentoring has a place for you! For more information, attend the Mentoring Social or contact Colinne or Kathy at mentoring@helpingservices.org, 563-387-1720, or visit 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.

Cross of Christ will host a Meatball Supper on Wed., Oct. 6, from 4-7 pm at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston, MN. Drive-thru/carryout only.

Meatballs, potatoes and gravy, homegrown squash, two salads, green beans, bun, and brownies. $10.00

Co-authors Doug Newhoff and Craig Sesker will be in Decorah Wednesday, Sept. 8 to promote their new book, “Home Sweet Dome,” which shares the stories of Iowa’s best high school football programs during the playoff era.

The book includes a terrific chapter about the Decorah High School program, and features interviews with Vikings greats Josey Jewell, Dick Wuest, Jason Olejniczak and Bill Post. Decorah is one of 34 programs in the 560-page, 44-chapter book, which also highlights a handful of individuals whose teams didn’t participate in the UNI-Dome playoffs.

Wednesday’s book signing event will take place from 5-7 p.m. at T-Bocks. “Home Sweet Dome” can also be purchased online at www.domeplayoffs.com or by mailing a check for $35 to Home Sweet Dome, 5407 Glacier Dr., Cedar Falls, IA., 50613.

Note: A little more info about the book can be found on the domeplayoffs.com website. If you are interested in an interview with one or both of the authors, contact Doug Newhoff at dknewhoff@yahoo.com or (319) 240-5545. We appreciate anything you can do to help us get the word out about Wednesday’s event!

The Frankville Fire Department will be holding their annual Labor Day BBQ on Monday, September 6th from 11 – 1.  Menu will include choice of chicken or turkey tenders, homemade potato salad, baked beans, a dinner roll and milk for $10.00.   The Frankville Presbyterian Church will also be selling pieces of pie for $3.00.   This is a drive-thru event.   Please follow the signs.

Along with the annual power show going on 13th-15th city wide rummage sales are also going on! There will be a coffee truck on main street!

St. John’ Lutheran Spring Fountain will be hosting there annual dinner on August 29 2021 at the church which is located 4 miles west of Sumner on Hwy 93 to Tahoe Ave then 1 mile south. The address is 1490 Tahoe Ave Sumner Ia. We will be serving from 11:00 AM till 1:00 PM. The menu includes Barbecue Pork Loin, Cheesy Hash Browns, Cracked Green Beans, Macaroni Salad and Malts. Please join us at our beautiful brick church

Assumption Parish of Little Turkey will be celebrating their annual church dinner on Sunday, August 15th. Mass at 3:00 pm. Meal serving Reicks Fried Chicken with homemade side dishes and baked goods will be served from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. $12 per meal. No advanced tickets. Live Music by Marc Frana & Jim Busta Band. Games, Bingo, Kolache Sales, Raffle, and Facebook Auction. For more information go to the parish facebook page: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary—Little Turkey, Iowa. Outdoor dining only, carry-out or drive-thru.  Come enjoy a meal with friends and family under the tent.

AIRING OUT THE QUILTS: OUTDOOR QUILT SHOW IN DECORAH 

For Release:  Wednesday, June 30, 2021

For more information contact Mike Ellingsen

507.602.0322  ellingsenms@gmail.com

Quilts will adorn neighborhoods of Decorah on Thursday, July 8, as the NorthEast Iowa Quilters’ Guild sponsors their second annual Airing of the Quilts – a drive-by quilt show that runs from 3:00-6:00 pm. As with many organizations, it has been a tricky year for the NEIQG – they had to cancel their biennial quilt show last October – and worked to find an alternate venue to display member quilts. Clustered in three Decorah neighborhoods – Vennehjem, Broadway/Mechanic, and South Side – colorful quilts of members and friends will be draped on fences, suspended from balconies, and hung from porches and rain gutters. The event is free, and the public is invited to drive, bike, or walk the route to enjoy these quilts. While attendees are asked not to enter porches and private areas, they are welcome to move near to examine the quilts. There may be quilts hanging at other homes along the way. You are welcome to display your own quilts – if you wish to be included on the map, please contact Mike Ellingsen at 507.602.0322. Maps will be available on the NEIQG home page (www.neiqg.com), the NEIQG Facebook page (NorthEast Iowa Quilters’ Guild), and at the Decorah Chamber of Commerce.

The NorthEast Iowa Quilters’ Guild is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that meets on the first Tuesday of the month, with meetings at 2:00 and 7:00 pm. A short business meeting is followed by announcements, show-and-tell, and a program or presentation by a quilting expert. New members are always welcome.

The Floyd County Museum invites you to join us for a day of family fun featuring games, food, educational activities, and local products! The event will be at Andres Park next to the Museum. Parking available on the street and at St John’s Lutheran Church one block west. Call 641-228-1099 for questions.

COOKIE AND PIE CONTEST

Got a pie or cookie recipe you want to show off? We want to try it! Cookies and Pies will be judged in two separate categories, and scored on taste, presentation, and creativity by local judges. Call to enter by July 23. Entries must be dropped off at the Museum by 4pm on July 30.

Do you love history?  A unique museum experience is coming to Decorah July 7.

TRACES Center for History and Culture presents the “BUS-eum,” a  traveling mobile museum on a retrofitted bus featuring five unique American history exhibits from the era of 1914-1939 and spotlights Midwest connections.  Exhibits include: Prohibition era bootlegging, Farmer-led social unrest during the Great Depression, the flu pandemic of 1918, and other era-specific topics. See this unique take on bringing history to life with original artifacts: photos, documents, letters, and hear in-depth knowledge from a university professor as your guide.

The “BUS-eum” will be viewable at the Decorah Genealogy Association located at Heivly St across from the Farmers Market, Decorah from noon-7PM on Wednesday, July 7th.

Explore these “Prequels to the Greatest Generation;” five “Hidden or Forbidden” subchapters of 20th-century American history. This non-profit, educational resource is made possible by on-going support from Vander Haag’s Inc. of Spencer, Iowa.  Find us at www.facebook.com/TracesMLT

2021 Summer Live Performance at the Ossian Educational and Performance Pavilion Features the “Tom and Betty Show”

The first of eight live summer performances at the Ossian Educational and Performance Pavilion will take place on Sunday, June 27, at 7:30 p.m. Tom and Elisabeth Kirby are two members of Mason City, Iowa’s popular band “Betty and the Gents”. The “Tom and Betty Show”, which will be featured for this live performance, is known for its unique spin on popular covers and Betty’s “dreamy soul-pop” original songs. Tom’s influences include the Beatles, Weezer, Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews, and Garth Brooks.  Betty’s influences include Ingrid Michaelson, Korey Cooper (Skillet), Juni West, and Chris Martin (Coldplay). This live performance is sponsored by the Luana Savings Bank.

Tom and Betsy Kirby are the featured performers for this event. Tom, a native of Calmar, Iowa, is a 7th grade math teacher for the Mason City Community School District. Betsy is a music teacher for the Mason City Community School District. Tom, Betsy and their boys live in Mason City. Tom is the son of Kenn and Shirley Kirby of Calmar,

The 2021 Summer Performances at the Pavilion includes movies and live performances during the summer months. The Ossian Educational and Performance Pavilion features a state of the art sound system, a large movie screen and recessed lighting.

Other future events include another movie night on Wednesday, June 30, at 7:30 p.m. featuring “Soul Surfer”. The movie‘s sponsor is Bushman Insurance. The second of eight live performances will be on Wednesday, July 7, at 7:30 p.m. Mike McAbee will perform. Reilly Construction, Inc sponsors this live performance

All 2021 Summer Performances at the Pavilion are free. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the event on the lawn at Carey’s Park in Ossian. The 2021 Summer Performances at the Pavilion are sponsored by the City of Ossian, the Ossian Crown Club and Casey’s General Store – Ossian.

Washington Prairie Lutheran Church will be hosting a drive-thru Memorial Day luncheon on Monday, May 31 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church on county road W42.  Lunch consists of maid rites, salads, chips, bars and a bottle of water.  Free will offering.  Donations will be go to the Cemetery Fund.

South Winn Golf and CC on Sunday, May 2 serving from 11:00 to 2:00.

Serving  Reicks’s cod fish, potatoes, baked beans and a dinner roll for $13.

The address is 2585 175th Street, Calmar

Shopping for a Cause is an annual event held in the spring coordinated by April McQuade. For each event the vendor fees and proceeds are donated to a family in need within our community. This event will benefit the family of Ashley Plagman.

Saturday, November 28^th, 2020 Ashley passed away unexpectedly at the age of 27 after suffering from a blood clot. She left behind her 3 year old son Keeegan, daughter Brayleigh, just 3 months old at the time, and boyfriend Jeff Haas. Since Ashley’s passing Jeff has taken on the role of single dad. Proceeds from this event will help cover the kid’s daily expenses.

The event will be held Saturday, March 13^th from 10am-2pm at the Waukon Banquet Center. There will craft and vendors selling products with a portion of their sales being donated to the family. We will also have a free-will offering bake sale and a raffle.

New this year, BE Catered will be offering a meal for carry-out. You’ll be able to pre-order your dinner; meatballs, mashed potatoes and gravy, ham, corn, and dinner roll for $10. $2 from every meal will be going to the family. Watch this event and BE Catered’s Facebook page for more details.

A special thanks to the Waukon Banquet Center for donating the use of the facility.

Anyone interested in being a vendor can contact April McQude (563-794-0672). Details for bake sale donations to follow.

Anderson, Wilmarth, Van Der Maaten, Belay, Fretheim, Gipp, Evelsizer Olson, Lynch & Zahasky 
Announce Changes 

The Law Offices of Anderson, Wilmarth, Van Der Maaten, Belay, Fretheim, Gipp, Evelsizer Olson, Lynch & Zahasky are pleased to announce Jana Evelsizer Olson has become a partner of the firm.  Ms. Evelsizer Olson has been with the firm since 2016.  

Lee Wilmarth has transitioned from partner to “Of Counsel” for the firm. Mr. Wilmarth will continue to provide services in Tax, Real Estate, Probate, and Estate Planning.  

The firm would also like to announce the addition of Charles Crain as an associate attorney and Assistant Winneshiek County Attorney.  Mr. Crain received his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University in 2002 and his Juris Doctor from the University of St. Thomas School of Law in 2012 and is licensed to practice law in Minnesota and Iowa.  Previously, he was a Director of Student Services at the University of Minnesota.  Mr. Crain is married to Kara Crain, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Winneshiek Medical Center. They have three children.  

### 

St. Paul Lutheran Church, Postville

Spring Festival

Drive Thu Meal

Sunday, April 11

10:30 to 1

Swiss Steak and Pit Ham

Real Mashed Potatoes w/gravy

Freezer Corn – Cole Slaw

Dinner Roll – Bar – Water

Raffle tickets available – Drawing at 1:15

Adults $12 – Children 5-10 $6 and Children 4 and younger Free

Tickets available the day of.

Please sign up to be a donor in Cresco Iowa, at the VFW, March 4th, 1:00 – 6:00

Contact RedCrossBlood.org or call Pat Joiner (563 547 5839) or (563 380 8954)

PIVO Brewery recognized for brewing excellence at world’s largest commercial beer competition.

CALMAR, IOWA, 10/16/2020. PIVO Brewery was awarded Gold and Silver medals at the 2020 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) competition, the world’s largest commercial beer competition. The GABF, presented by the Brewers Association, recognizes the most outstanding beers produced in the United States. The best beers in 91 beer categories covering 170 different beer styles (including all subcategories) were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals during a virtual ceremony Friday, October 16, hosted on The Brewing Network.

PIVO Brewery was awarded a Gold Medal in the Historic Beer category for its Decorah Nordic Gruit. This traditional Scandinavian style of beer is brewed with no bittering hops. Juniper berries, rosemary, bay leaf, black walnuts, bog myrtle and toasted caraway seed are the Nordic style beer flavorings that make this a truly unique Viking era beer.

PIVO Brewery was awarded a Silver Medal in the Chocolate Beer category for its Balltown Bulleit Bourbon Barrel Aged Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Brownie Milk Stout. This beer has deep and complex dark chocolate flavors blended with salted caramel. It is aged on bourbon barrels for several months to mellow the flavors and add some vanilla and bourbon accents from the oak barrel.

Judges for the 34^th edition of the celebrated GABF competition evaluated 8,806 entries from 1,720 breweries from all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. Socially distanced judging took place in 35 sessions over 18 days with strict safety measures in place.

PIVO Brewery is a 15 barrel microbrewery located in Calmar, Iowa that strives to make a large variety of different beers and ciders. Their brewery taproom in Calmar has 40 taps that are typically serving over 36 different PIVO made beverages. They are the only brewery in Iowa co-located with a commercial art studio (Blepta Studios) that teaches classes and produces art for sale. PIVO Brewery also has an event center attached to the brewery that can seat 370 people. Craig and Sara Neuzil of Calmar are the owners of PIVO Brewery and Blepta Studios.

Waucoma Fire Department is hosting a Grilled Boneless Iowa Chop Dinner drive-thru on November 15th, 11AM-2PM.

Drive-thru only at the Waucoma Fire Station

Meal Includes: Grilled Boneless Iowa Chop, Green Beans, Baked Potato, Roll and Dessert

First 600 meals, No advance tickets available.

Price is $10.00 per meal

September 22, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month”

Helping Services for Youth & Families’ Domestic Abuse Resource Center (DARC) is hosting Domestic Violence Awareness during the month of October. In Iowa and around the world, October is a month to create awareness around domestic violence, using the color purple to symbolize the cause.

Throughout the month of October you will notice areas that highlight domestic violence awareness. We have a few ways you can support local survivors of domestic violence:

1. Throughout the month of October, Pivo Brewery & Blepta Studios in Calmar will be donating 20% of their online sales to DARC.
2. On Saturday, October 17, Luna Valley Farm in Decorah will be providing 20% of pizza sales to DARC. All pizza orders need to be made in advance.

Last year, the Helping Services’ DARC team of advocates and volunteers assisted 223 individual survivors of domestic abuse in the 7 counties the team serves (Allamakee, Bremer, Chickasaw, Clayton, Fayette, Howard, and Winneshiek). Staff and volunteers also answered 1,728 calls on our Resource Line and provided 88 transportation trips for clients.  For more info about Helping Services’ DARC please call 800-383-2988 or visit www.helpingservices.org to access our chat option with an advocate.

###

CIA Insurance, CUSB Bank, CUSB Wealth Management Solutions, and Thomson Charitable Foundation donates 6,700 masks and shields to area school districts

CUSB Bank, CIA Insurance, CUSB Wealth Management Solutions, and the Thomson Charitable Foundation are proud to partner to provide masks and shields for the Howard-Winneshiek, Notre Dame, Riceville, Osage, Charles City, Immaculate Conception, and LeRoy-Ostrander school districts as they return to learn this Fall.

J. Scott Thomson, CEO and President of CUSB Bank and CIA Insurance said, “As a community-minded bank we have reinvested in the financial well-being of our communities and now we are re-investing in the personal well-being of our youth and educators. We’re proud to donate 6,700 masks and shields to area school districts as they return to school.”

Washable and adjustable adult and children masks, personalized by school district in school colors, have been donated to each school for distribution. Youth face shields have also been purchased and given to schools for distribution. Donations of masks have also been made to area day care centers for their employees to use.

Caring and family are core values of CUSB Bank, CIA Insurance, and CUSB Wealth Management Solutions. Thomson said, “As community-minded institutions, we feel a deep responsibility towards supporting the communities that we are fortunate to serve. Our communities and our families have been greatly impacted by COVID-19 and we want to show our support as the transition back to school starts. Many of our employees are parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles and we wanted to help provide a layer of protection for their loved ones and yours as they start a new school year.”
Be sure to tag CUSB Bank and CIA Insurance on social media (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) in your back to school masked photos.

Picture descriptions
Brian Midthus Pic
CIA Insurance Agent Brian Midthus is pictured with his wife, Michelle, a teacher at Crestwood Elementary, and their two daughters, Madison, and Mackenzie.

Cindy Butikofer Pic
CIA Insurance Agency Manager Cindy Butikofer (second row, right) has her grandchildren (Cole, Lawson, Aiden, Kyra, and Carver) all masked and stacked up, ready for school at Crestwood Schools.

Dan and Janice Ollendick
CUSB Vice President Dan Ollendick and his wife, Janice, are pictured with their granddaughters, Oaklee and Etta, who are ready for school at Notre Dame Elementary.

Jeanne Voyna
CUSB Employee Jeanne Voyna is pictured with her three children, Emily, Brock, and Trenton, ready for school at Crestwood.

Face Shields and Masks
CUSB Bank, CIA Insurance, CUSB Wealth Management Solutions, and the Thomson Charitable Foundation are proud to partner to provide 6,700 masks and shields for the Howard-Winneshiek, Notre Dame, Riceville, Osage, Charles City, Immaculate Conception, and LeRoy-Ostrander school districts as they return to learn this Fall.

BLOOD DRIVE ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 15
Community Presbyterian Church In Postville will be hosting a blood drive on Saturday, August 15 from 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.  COVID-19 guidelines will be followed in the building. You will have to wear a mask and practice social distancing. Unfortunately, we will not be able to have homemade goodies available, but there will be juice and pre-packaged snacks. If you are interested in signing up for an appointment to give blood, please call Travis  (563) 380-1607.

Gage Hovey, son of Tammy and Trav Hovey won a bike at the Races at the Upper Iowa Speedway on June 13, but Gage told his parents, “I already have a bike, so I want to donate it to a kid in need”. Gage’s parents collected names on Facebook for a drawing for that bike. Jana Albers, social worker at the Child Health Specialty Clinic, saw the post on Facebook and  contacted Gage’s parents to let them know she has several children they work with at their clinic whose families cannot afford a bike but she cannot share their names due to HIPPA/confidentiality laws.  Gage had such an overwhelming response to his offer to donate the bike he won, that people started donating money so Gage could give more bikes away.

Gage’s parents contacted Jana to let her know they now had 3 more brand new bikes to donate and they wanted to donate them to children served by the CHSC clinic. Gage and his family met Jana and  her co-worker, Tracy Meirick in front of their clinic to  give the bikes to them and Gage wanted to have a picture taken with the clinic staff.

Eight Candidates Pursue
Title of 67th Iowa Dairy Princess
2020-21 Iowa Dairy Princess to be Crowned August 6

ANKENY, Iowa – Eight young women involved within the Iowa dairy community will compete to win the title of 67th Iowa Dairy Princess Thursday, Aug. 6, at 2 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott in Ankeny. The princess and her alternate are charged with helping consumers learn more about dairy products and the farm families who tend the farms and cows that provide them.
The contestants are:
• Brooke Courtney, 18, daughter of Scott and Amy Courtney of Ridgeway, representing Winneshiek County;
• Amber Engelken, 18, daughter of Tom and Cherrie Engelken of Earlville, representing Iowa Holstein Association;
• Kaylee Gibbs, 17, daughter of Chris and Kerri Gibbs of Waterville, representing Allamakee County;
• Megan Gronau, 21, daughter of Todd and Karen Gronau of Durango, representing Dubuque County;
• Meghan Hettinga, 20, daughter of Jason and Mary Hettinga of Orange City, representing Iowa Jersey Cattle Club;
• Abby Klstermann, 18, daughter of Chris and Michelle Klostermann of Dyersville, representing Delaware County;
• Raegan Kime, 17, daughter of Dann and Annette Kime of Waucoma, representing Iowa Guersney Breeders Association;
• Megan Kueker, 18, daughter of Gary and Karol Kueker of West Union, representing Fayette County;
The winners are chosen on the basis of their knowledge and enthusiasm about dairy, personality and communication ability during judging which begins Wednesday, Aug. 5. Both the princess and alternate will receive scholarships from Midwest Dairy, which sponsors the contest and princess program on behalf of Iowa’s dairy farmers.
The outgoing 2019-20 Iowa Dairy Princess is Julie Hammerand, daughter of Jerry and Lois Hammerand, and the Alternate Princess is Faith Palmer, daughter of John and Meghan Palmer of Waukon. Their reigns will be completed at the end of the month, and the new Princess and Alternate will begin their duties Sept. 1.
###

Midwest Dairy™ represents 7,000 dairy farm families and works on their behalf to build dairy demand by inspiring consumer confidence in our products and production practices. We are committed to Bringing Dairy to Life! by Giving Consumers an Excellent Dairy Experience and are funded by farmers across a 10-state region, including Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma. For more information, visit MidwestDairy.com. Follow us on Twitter and find us on Facebook at Midwest Dairy.

—
Mariah Busta
Iowa Dairy Princess Program Coordinator

Although the Winneshiek County Historical Society’s office has been closed to walk-in traffic since the pandemic emerged in late March, work has continued both outside and inside the office.
The entrance to the WCHS office at 302 S. Mill Street is sporting a new look. Porch columns, ceiling, door, and window trim have been stripped, repaired, caulked, primed and painted by Ron and Sandy Stover. The Stovers are also continuing to strip, caulk, prime, and paint the rest of the trim on the first-floor windows and doors, with west and south sides completed. Historic metal work has been stripped of paint and restored by the Stovers, and vintage hooks on the front porch have been stripped and given a baked historic coating to preserve their metal finish by David Wadsworth. Shingling and roof repair, soffit, and fascia repair are slated for late summer, and attic insulating and other efforts to conserve energy will also be accomplished before the winter heating season.
When the office reopens to foot traffic, it will be easier for patrons to locate. A new sign at the office entrance directs patrons to the Winneshiek County Heritage Center, the new designation for the Winneshiek County Historical Society headquarters. The sign was painted by Elizabeth Lorentzen and recently installed by Jerry Thompson and Ron Stover. Improvement and maintenance of the grounds also continues with Ron and Sandy Stover heading up that project.
Work has also been carried on inside the office. The Historical Society volunteers have continued to research questions that people have emailed or called in, as well as accepting donations of family histories, photos, and other historic memorabilia. Some interesting photos of vintage homes, historic photos of local families and their stories have been received, and the WCHS research database and offerings continue to grow. The Society’s newsletter is sent out regularly keeping members apprised of current happenings.
The Historical Society looks forward to the day when they can again serve patrons face-to-face. Until that time, they can be contacted with questions and research requests via their email, winneshiek.historical.society@gmail.com or their office phone, 563-382-4166. Their website, www.winneshiekcountyhistoricalsociety.com updates current WCHS happenings. Patrons can also explore the digitized vintage county newspapers online at http://winneshiekcounty.advantage-preservation.com produced as a project in collaboration with the Luther College Library. Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Winneshiek County Historical Society may contact them by calling or emailing the WCHS office.

Decorah Park and Rec 2020 Swimming Info

Decorah Parks and Recreation will follow guidance from the CDC and the Iowa Department of Public Health to protect swimmers, staff, and patrons.

The 2020 pool experience will be completely different in Decorah and across the nation. The health and safety of patrons and staff will be our highest priority. Below you will find a summary of actions Decorah Parks and Recreation pledges to initiate to help lower COVID-19 risk as much as possible while also allowing swimmers and patrons to enjoy the water.

All staff and swimmers will be screened and temperatures will be taken before admittance. No one with a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or greater will be allowed into the facility.
When not in the water all staff and patrons are encouraged to wear masks when interacting with others.
The 2020 Decorah Swimming Pool capacity will be limited to 388 people to allow for social distancing. Capacity was determined by a formula using the area of the pool and is 37% of the facility’s normal operating capacity.
The facility will be cleaned and sanitized above and beyond CDC guidelines.
Efforts will be made to help with social distancing through signage and markings that note where patrons should stand when waiting in line to enter the facility, to use diving boards and to go down the slide. Staff will mark out areas on the deck and grass to help patrons to spread out.
The Decorah Municipal Swimming Pool will be open 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm daily for public swim.
Family time has been added for this season and will run from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm daily. Children must be accompanied by an adult to come during this time. This is an excellent time for parents wishing to work on teaching some basic swimming techniques with their children or bring younger children to enjoy the pool in a quieter setting.
Lap swim and water walking hours have been expanded to safely accommodate and maximize the number of patrons served. Lane reservations will be taken online.
Season passes can be purchased online. Prices have been prorated. Daily admission prices will remain the same as previous years.
Concessions will not be provided and food will not be allowed in the pool area. Staff and patrons are encouraged to bring their own water bottle with their name on it.
Swimming lessons will not be provided by Decorah Parks and Recreation this season (this includes both private and group lessons). Effective lessons require close contact between instructors and participants, which is not feasible while social distancing.
Pool parties will not be scheduled this year.
A new group of adult volunteers, Decorah Swimming Pool Ambassadors, is being formed to help Decorah Parks and Recreation navigate the pool season. The Decorah Swimming Pool Ambassadors will help pool staff by answering questions, assisting with registration at the front door and educating patrons about social distancing out on the pool deck. This will allow the life guards to concentrate on guarding. If you are interested in volunteering as part of this program please direct any offers or questions to the DPR office, 382-4158 or email parkrec@decorahia.org. Volunteers must be adults.
The status of the pool will be reviewed daily and guidelines will be updated as needed.

2020 Fair Special Edition: Iowa 4-H and FFA Livestock Show Information

In the spirit of tradition, the Iowa State Fairgrounds are excited to host the 2020 Fair Special Edition: Iowa 4-H and FFA Livestock Show. Held with the same prestige and competition found at the Iowa State Fair, this 2020 Special Edition will showcase the superior showmanship, hard work, and determination of Iowa’s 4-H and FFA youth. This Special Edition show will follow all Iowa Department of Public Health and CDC recommendations for social distancing, hand washing and sanitization, so although it will be held in August and on the Iowa State Fairgrounds, you may notice some “special” considerations for this stand-alone event.

Purpose: To support the mission statement of the Iowa State Fair by providing an opportunity for Iowa 4-H and FFA youth to showcase their hard work and livestock projects.

Eligibility: Open to Iowa 4-H and FFA exhibitors that have nominated livestock projects for the 2020 Iowa State Fair. Shows will be available for the following:

FFA Beef
FFA Horse
FFA Meat Goat
FFA Poultry*
FFA Rabbit*
FFA Sheep
FFA Swine
FFA & 4-H Dairy Cattle
FFA & 4-H Dairy Goats
4-H Beef
4-H Horse
4-H Meat Goat
4-H Poultry*
4-H Rabbit
4-H Sheep
4-H Swine
*nomination not required

Schedule: The attached schedule allows more room for exhibitors to obey social distancing recommendations. The separation of the shows allows for the Fairgrounds to be cleaned thoroughly between sessions.

**Some shows and competitions will not be offered for 2020. This includes the 4-H Dog Show, all carcass and/or performance contests including FFA Performance Beef, 4-H Beef of Merit, Sheep and Swine Carcass Contests, Livestock Skillathons, and non-show competitions (no poster presentations, etc.) and no Showmanship classes will be conducted this year. Just simply the livestock shows themselves.

Attendees: For crowd control purposes each exhibitor will receive 3 wristbands total.

A limited number of wristbands will be available to show supporters. A $100 donation to the show will grant the donor 2 wristbands good for all three sessions August 6-22. Click here to donate.

Wristbands will be required to access the Fairgrounds. Wristbands will not be available on site.

No additional fees for admission or parking will be charged.

Entry: 4-H exhibitors will enter thru 4-H Online.
FFA exhibitors will work with their advisor to enter thru the Fair entry system.
Both systems will open on Monday, June 22.

Entry Deadline: July 10, 2020

Entry fees are as follows:

FFA Beef $35
FFA Horse $25/head + $5/class
FFA Meat Goat $15
FFA Poultry $5
FFA Rabbit $5
FFA Sheep $15
FFA Swine $15
FFA & 4-H Dairy Cattle $30
FFA & 4-H Dairy Goats $15
4-H Beef $35
4-H Horse $25/head + $5/class
4-H Meat Goat $15
4-H Poultry $5
4-H Rabbit $5
4-H Sheep $15
4-H Swine $15

Exhibitor Communication: Follow show information on Facebook under 2020 Fair Special Edition: Iowa 4-H and FFA Livestock Show or text SHOW to 75782

Generators: No auxiliary generators will be provided.

Parking: Parking will be allowed on the fairgrounds in designated areas at no cost. All persons in the vehicle must have a wristband to enter the Fairgrounds. Wristbands will not be available on site.

Trailer Parking: Trailers parking will be available on grounds in designated areas at no cost.

Premiums and Ribbons: The Danish Ribbon systems will still be used – exhibitors will receive the typical Purple, Blue, Red, White in each class. However, monetary premiums will be paid only to the top 3 placings in each class across all divisions.

Rules: Premium books with full rules will be available by end of day June 19 at www.iowastatefair.org/participate/competition/how-to-enter/

Exhibitors will notice some key changes for 2020 in certain species. For instance, due to no market outlet, market swine will not be loaded out for harvest. All shows will be non-terminal with the exception of the following animals that will be processed at Iowa State University Meat Lab: Grand and Reserve Grand Champion 4-H Market Steer; Grand and Reserve Grand 4-H Champion Market Heifer; Grand and Reserve Grand Champion 4-H Market Hog; Grand and Reserve Grand Champion 4-H Market Lamb; Grand and Reserve Grand Champion 4-H Broiler (Special); Grand Champion 4-H Market Meat Goat; Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion FFA Market Lamb; Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion FFA Market Hog; Grand Champion FFA Market Meat Goat.

Due to physical distancing requirements, reduction of interactions and lack of resources, carcass classes will not be available.

Other Amenities: A small variety of food and show supply vendors will be available.

No overnight accommodations will be allowed in the barns or the Youth Inn.

Camping is available in the Fair campgrounds. More information may be found here: https://www.iowastatefairgrounds.org/camping/off-season-camping/

COVID-19 Precautions:

All employees, exhibitors, vendors, and patrons must closely follow all rules, guidelines, and advice set forth by the United States Federal Government, CDC, State of Iowa Governor’s Office, Iowa Department of Public Health, ESA (Event Safety Alliance), and the IISC (Iowa Illinois Safety Council).

It is strongly encouraged that volunteers, participants, and families use face coverings and practice physical distancing.

Some rows or sections of seating may be blocked off in order to space people at least 6 feet apart.

Lines or queues will be eliminated where possible or people will be encouraged to stay at least 6 feet apart by providing signs or other visual cues such as tape or chalk marks.

Frequent hand washing with soap and water is greatly encouraged. If soap and water is not available hand sanitation stations will be placed throughout the barns and show arenas.

Cleaning and sanitization of all frequently touched surfaces will occur during the set-up and throughout the duration of the events.

For further information, please contact the Competitive Events Department at competitiveevents@iowastatefair.org or 515.262.3111 x207

June 2, 2020

Dear 4-H and FFA members, families, and volunteers,

Recently the Winneshiek County Fair Association cancelled the 2020 grounds and entertainment activities due to continued restrictions of Covid-19. We appreciate the support provided by the Winneshiek County Fair Association to support decisions of Winneshiek County Extension/4-H staff and the 4-H committees when determining plans to provide a ‘4-H Fair’ in 2020.

The Winneshiek County Extension Council, Youth Development Committee along with 4-H and Extension staff have made the difficult decision to shift all efforts and resources to a limited audience Show and Go Livestock Exhibition and contact-free Static, Clothing, & Communication Exhibit Judging. The health and safety of our 4-H members, families, volunteers, staff, and animals are the primary concern in making this decision. Winneshiek County Extension and Outreach must follow the guidance of Winneshiek County Public Health and Iowa 4-H.

This year has been full of difficult decisions and learning experiences. This is not a decision we ever imagined we would need to consider. We ask for your patience and kindness as we prepare materials and information for 4-H and FFA members who still choose to participate in the modified events. Some may choose that these events are not what they would like to participate in this summer and others will choose to participate. Like every year, fair is not a requirement to be a 4-H member.

What is next?
• FairEntry is currently closed. Fair Entry will open on the new date of June 10 and close on June 30.
• Updates regarding schedule and classes will be shared on June 9 to your 4HOnline email.
We thank you in advance for your patience and support. Questions can be sent to winneshiek4h@iastate.edu or by phone at 563-382-2949. Additional updates may be found on our website in the weeks to come.

The Winneshiek County 4-H Staff Team, Youth Development Committee and Winneshiek County Extension Council.

The Winneshiek County Agricultural Association has made the difficult decision to cancel grounds and entertainment activities for the 2020 Winneshiek County fair.
This cancellation includes Fair Races, Rodeo, Tractor Pull, Joe Stamm Band for Friday night, and Saturday night acts Gabby Barret and Jordan Davis. All carnival and grounds entertainment are also cancelled.
The Nitty Gritty Dirt band, scheduled for Friday night, had already canceled their appearance at the 2020 Fair.
Public Health comments, CDC guidelines, along with legal guidance from the County Attorney were considered throughout this decision making process, in addition with the concern to keep residents of Winneshiek County safe and healthy.
Should the CDC guidelines still be in place at the time of the fair, it was felt that the 6 foot social distance rule would be virtually impossible to enforce in most, if not all scheduled activities. The rule also severely limits the Fair’s ability to remain financially viable. Due to the requirement of only 50% capacity at any event, revenue deficits are simply too great to overlook.
The Fair Board is working with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach to find a workable solution to schedule the 4-H and FFA shows. Details will come in the near future.
A great amount of time and thought was put into this decision. While it is deeply disappointing the Fair Board looks forward to 2021. We are all very grateful for the great community support we receive each year to be able to put on the “Biggest Little Fair in Iowa.” Thank You to each and every one of the businesses and individuals who help make this fair what it is.

June 1, 2020

For immediate release –
Decorah, Iowa
June 1, 2020
Northeast Iowa Community Action, in collaboration with Iowa Community Action Association and the Iowa Finance Authority, is implementing a rent assistance program for COVID-19 related housing issues. Current renters that are at risk of eviction due to a documented COVID-19 related loss of income after March 17, 2020 may be eligible for rent assistance. For more information on how to apply, please contact NEICAC Housing, your local NEICAC Family Services Outreach Office, or visit https://www.iowafinance.com/covid-application/.
Household income at the time of application may not exceed 80% of the median family income, which varies by household size and county. Those receiving the $600 per week additional unemployment payment are not eligible to receive assistance through the EFP program.
NEICAC Housing – housing@neicac.org , or call 563-387-4959
Family Services Outreach Offices
Waukon Family Services 563-568-4224 jmiller@neicac.org
clooney@neicac.org

Waverly Family Services/Food Pantry 319-352-4532 cmunson@neicac.org

New Hampton Family Services 641-394-2007 tlehs@neicac.org

Elkader Family Services 563-245-2452 sschultz@neicac.org

West Union Family Services 641-394-2007 tlehs@neicac.org

Oelwein Family Services 319-283-2510 fstewart@neicac.org
dscharnhorst@neicac.org

Cresco Family Services/Food Pantry 563-547-4413 mahrndt@neicac.org

Decorah Family Services/Food Pantry 563-387-4958 trovang@neicac.org

XXX

For more information, please contact:
Karli Schmelzer, Operations & Development Director
Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation
563.387.4936