Community News Stories

Gundersen moves some clinic appointments to phone 

Gundersen Health System is changing how it handles some clinic appointments at all locations to help prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Effective immediately and for the coming weeks, some scheduled clinic appointments will be converted to a phone visit or canceled to help us focus on preparing for COVID-19 and treating patients with the virus.

In either case, patients will receive a phone call from their healthcare team to confirm a phone visit or cancellation. Patients do not need to call us. If an appointment is canceled, we will work with patients to reschedule it for a later date.

In cases where a patient needs to be seen in person, the appointment will continue as scheduled. If you do not hear from your provider, plan to be at your appointment. Patients are reminded that only one support person may accompany them to appointments and are asked to drop off and pick up patients, rather than waiting inside the clinic.

For the most up-to-date information, visit gundersenhealth.org/covid19

Telephone: (563) 387-1417

Luther College extends distance learning period through spring semester 

On Wednesday, the Iowa Department of Public Health confirmed nine additional cases of COVID-19 in Iowa, one of which is located in Winneshiek County. Given these developments, federal and state guidance on travel and social distancing, and our obligations to protect the health and safety of students, faculty, staff and the local community, Luther leadership has decided to extend the period of distance learning through the remainder of the spring semester. Beginning Monday, March 30, and continuing through Thursday, May 21, all courses at Luther College will be held in distance learning formats.

All students who complete graduation requirements during the Spring 2020 semester will formally graduate from Luther College and become alumni in May 2020. Luther College is committed to celebrating this important accomplishment, and it will hold on-campus commencement exercises for the Class of 2020 at a date yet to be determined, depending upon local, regional and national considerations for individual and community health.

“I know that these are anxious and uncertain times. Together we will find answers to the questions that you may have now, as well as those that may arise in the future. This situation is challenging and not what we planned. But I know that our community is strong and that our commitment to academic excellence is unwavering. Even though the distance learning approach is going to be different for many of us, I know that the content of what we are going to do together will endure,” said President Jenifer K. Ward.

Campus buildings will be closed to visitors and the general public. Effective immediately, all events at Luther College are canceled through at least Thursday, May 21. The Campus Programming Office will work with event planners and hosts to identify and cancel events, including those sponsored by groups not affiliated with Luther College.

Consider Donating Personal Protect Equipment to Assist in
COVID-19 Response
Businesses and organizations are urged to donate personal protective equipment, or PPE, by
contacting their local public health department and the county emergency management
agency.
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is encouraging Iowa businesses and organizations
to donate extra personal protective equipment to assist health care providers and health care
facilities responding to COVID-19.
“This an unprecedented public health disaster, and stocks of personal protective equipment for
health care providers are being used rapidly,” said Ken Sharp, division director of Acute Disease
Prevention, Emergency Response and Environmental Health. “Any organizations that have extra
PPE supplies that aren’t immediately needed should consider donating them to help those on
the front line of this disease.”
Any type of health care PPE will be welcomed, especially gloves, gowns, eye protection, and
masks. Local public health and local emergency management officials will can work to address
needs locally and beyond.
To donate PPE, please contact county public health department or local emergency
manager. Local health department contact information can be found
at https://idph.iowa.gov/lphs/local-public-health-agencies, county emergency management
agency information can be found
at https://www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/documents/county/COORD_Public_List.pdf.

Decorah Public Library expands digital materials access

Decorah Public Library staff have been working to expand access to free e-books, digital audiobooks, and magazines for Decorah and rural Winneshiek County residents while the library is closed.

The first step towards gaining access to digital library materials is to sign up for a Decorah Public Library card; Decorah and rural Winneshiek County residents can do that by visiting the library website at www.decorah.lib.ia.us.

If someone already has a library card but can’t find it, they should email dpllib@decorah.lib.ia.us and staff will respond with the card number. That same email address can be used for questions or troubleshooting assistance. Staff will respond as soon as they’re able.

Library staff will continue to order additional digital materials for the community; users can request specific items for purchase through the Libby/Overdrive system or by emailing ktorresdal@decorah.lib.ia.us.

For additional Covid-19 information and resources, as well as current library news and online offerings, visit www.decorah.lib.ia.us or follow Decorah Public Library on Facebook.

In response to COVID-19, Hacker Nelson & Co., P.C. is
implementing precautionary procedures to keep you and our
employees healthy. Limiting personal contact is one of the
recommended methods of safety to mitigate and slow the
spread of the virus.
Hacker Nelson & Co. is now providing a Tax Information Drop
Off Service at our offices in lieu of offering in-person client
appointments and services.
Drop off hours are limited to 8:30 – 9:30 am and 12:30 – 1:30
pm Monday through Saturday.
Please leave your tax information in one of the tubs inside the
lobby of the office and an employee will secure your tax
information in a timely manner. You are welcome to request a
phone appointment at 563.382.3637 or by emailing
info@hackernelson.com this tax season. Also, if you want to
submit your information digitally, email
info@hackernelson.com and we will send a secure link.
Be assured that we are closely monitoring any developments
and its effects on taxpayers. We anticipate the IRS will extend
the tax filing deadline beyond April 15; however, this is not
confirmed at this time.
If you are a payroll client, please contact Hacker Nelson to
make communication arrangements at 563.382.3637.
Thank you for your understanding,
Your Hacker Nelson Team

A Message from the DACC

A Message from the DACC

The times are uncertain; the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to business and community is not. In response to COVID-19, our office is closed to the public and our in-person meetings and programs are postponed, but we will continue to provide you with the resources, engagement and leadership you have come to expect from us. Business hasn’t stopped, and neither has the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce.

If you have questions or need guidance please reach out
Office (563)382-3990
Kristina (563)419-2718

Drea – info@decorahareachamber.com
Kristina – kristina@decorahareachamber.com

We will remain viligant against the virus, confident in commerce!

March 20, 2020
Due to public health concerns, until further notice, Houston County drop sites will only be accepting
bagged trash, and recyclable plastic, tin cans, bottles, paper and cardboard. Drop site employees have
been instructed not to assist customers with unloading, and customers will be asked to remain outside drop
site buildings and will not be asked to sign receipts.
Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary trips to drop sites. If disposal of an item is not urgent, please
postpone it. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Press Release

Date: March 20, 2020

COVID-19 Update

COVID-19 is circulating in Iowa communities and many more Iowans are likely to become ill in the coming weeks. There are many questions in the community regarding who should be tested for the COVID-19 virus. To clarify and alleviate concerns in our communities, the Clayton County Healthcare Coalition would like to share this information with you.

Not everyone in the community who becomes ill needs to have the COVID-19 testing completed. 80% of the cases of COVID-19 are mild to moderate illness symptoms (low grade fever, cough, shortness of breath) and will recover completely by following these recommendations:

• Stay home for at least 7 days from the start of your illness and have a normal temperature for 3 full days without the aid of fever reducing medication such as Tylenol
• Get plenty of rest
• Drink plenty of fluids to remain hydrated
• Isolate yourself from other family members in your home as much as possible

Additionally, if you are experiencing mild to moderate illness symptoms that are manageable at home, the Iowa Department of Public Health is not recommending you have a COVID-19 test or a work release from your medical provider. If your occupation falls into the category of “Essential Service Personnel” such as healthcare professionals, law enforcement, fire & EMS, or long-term care and residential personnel, you may need to be tested according to your employer’s policies and can check directly with your employer on what those work policies are.

If you develop a temperature of 100.4 F or higher, your symptoms worsen or you experience shortness of breath, please call your medical provider or local hospital to be evaluated over the phone. Your medical provider will determine if you need to be seen and/or receive a test. Please remember to call your medical clinic or local hospital before arriving as they may want you to enter thru a designated entrance to protect the other patients in the waiting rooms. If you experience a medical emergency, please call 911 or your local emergency room for guidance.

It is recommended that Iowans self-isolate for 14 days in the following situations:

• If you have been on a cruise anywhere in the world in the last 14 days
• If you have traveled internationally in the last 14 days to a country with a Level 3 Travel Warning in place. Please refer to the CDC website (cdc.gov) for travel warning information as it can change rapidly.
• If you live with someone who has symptoms of COVID-19 or has tested positive for COVID-19

What does self-isolation mean?

• Stay home and do not go to school, public areas or attend gatherings.
• Do not use public transportation, ride sharing, or taxis.
• Postpone all non-essential travel.
• Wash your hands often and practice good hygiene.
• Postpone all non-essential medical appointments until you have completed your 14 days of self- isolation. If you have an essential medical appointment during this time, please work with your healthcare provider and local public health professionals, as needed, to help coordinate the visit.

What should I be watching for during self-isolation?

• Take your temperature twice a day. Watch for a fever.
• Watch for cough or difficulty breathing.

What about the people I live with?

• Family members or other persons who reside in your home may remain in your home, but you should stay in a specific room away from others and use a separate bathroom (if available).
• As long as you remain healthy, the other persons in your home can go about their daily activities as normal. There is no restriction on their movement.
• You should not have direct contact with any animals (i.e., dogs, cats, pigs, cattle, sheep and goats) out of an abundance of caution. Arrange for your pets to be cared for and housed outside of your home, if possible.

For updated information on COVID-19, visit the Iowa Department of Public Health webpage at https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus

Follow the Department on Facebook @IowaDepartmentOfPublicHealth and on Twitter @IAPublicHealth.

• Mayo Clinic Deferring Elective Care: To ensure the safest possible environment for our patients and staff and to free up resources to assist in Mayo Clinic’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mayo is deferring all elective care that can be deferred for eight or more weeks. Please know that we did not make this decision lightly, and in order for it to be effective, we must be stringent in applying it. Mayo will be reaching out to patients if changes to existing appointments are needed. Mayo Clinic is not alone in taking this extraordinary measure, as health systems across the country are starting to implement similar actions. More information is available at Mayo Clinic News Network.
• What to Do If You Suspect COVID-19: In an article on Mayo Clinic News Network, Dr. Clayton Cowl provides guidance for people who have a cough, fever, fatigue or other symptoms.
• Tips on Handling Concerns Related to COVID-19: If worry about coronavirus is becoming disruptive in your life, Dr. Sheila Jowsey-Gregoire, a Mayo Clinic psychiatrist, has advice in this article. These coping strategies can help you feel more in control of your emotions and lessen the anxiety associated with the pandemic situation.
• Gift to Support Mayo Clinic’s Response to COVID-19: On March 15, Minnesota Timberwolves player Karl-Anthony Towns announced a $100,000 gift to support Mayo Clinic’s response to COVID-19. Mr. Towns was inspired by Mayo Clinic’s recent development of a test that can detect the virus that causes COVID-19 and deliver results to patients within 24 hours. With this support, Mayo Clinic will increase its testing capacity from about 200 tests per day to more than 1,000 tests per day in the coming weeks. More information about the gift is available at Mayo Clinic News Network.

In a message to Mayo Clinic patients last week, Mayo Clinic President and CEO Dr. Gianrico Farrugia and Mayo Clinic Chief Administrative Officer Jeff Bolton emphasized that Mayo Clinic is well prepared to meet the needs of our patients and communities. Dr. Farrugia reiterated that point in an interview with CNBC this week, noting that with each passing day Mayo Clinic is increasingly well prepared.

For the latest updates from Mayo Clinic experts, I encourage you to visit Mayo Clinic News Network for a stream of articles updated in real time as circumstances and guidance from public health agencies change. Among the resources is a podcast highlighting simple steps you can take to protect yourself from COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s COVID-19 website is another excellent source of information.

Dear valued restaurant operator,

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) wants to provide clarification from the message that was sent on March 18. Specifically, this is to clarify the definition of “takeout” in the emergency order issued by Gov. Tony Evers.

The directive instructs restaurants and bars to end dine-in service and only provide takeout or delivery. No seating may be provided, and food may not be consumed at the restaurant.

Here is the new clarification for “takeout” orders:

• Online and phone orders can be picked up and paid for in person, provided there is social distancing of 6 feet between customers.
• Orders can be made onsite, limiting the total number of customers inside the establishment at one time to fewer than 10, if social distancing can be maintained during order, payment and pickup.

We recognize that this is a fluid situation. We will do our best to distribute information in a timely fashion.

Thank you for your role in keeping Wisconsinites safe and healthy by reducing the spread of COVID-19. If you have any questions, please send them to datcpfoodcomplaintsemergencyresponse@wisconsin.gov.

Sincerely,

The Division of Food and Recreational Safety

Gundersen Health System has launched an updated coronavirus disease 2019 website at gundersenhealth.org/covid19/

Here, your readers, viewers and listeners will find information on what to do if they’re feeling ill, what they can do to reduce the spread of

COVID-19, frequently asked questions, how they can take care of their mental health and much more.

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                            563-382-2911

March 19, 2020  1630 pm

Contact: Krista Vanden Brink BA, RN                                       Nancy Sacquitne RN, BSN

kvandenbrink@winneshiekhealth.org                                   nsacquitne@winneshiekhealth.org

Social distancing remains of upmost importance at this time in our communities. Avoid any gatherings of more than 10 people and you must maintain the 6 feet distance. There are no travel restrictions or shelter-in-place being implemented at this time following Governor Reynolds press conference.

We would strongly encourage that all hi-risk groups including elderly 61 years of age and older limit persons coming into your homes. This includes visits from your children and grandchildren. Talk to them by phone, FACETIME, Skype, or other methods. Don’t be put at risk.

Please ask family members, neighbors, and friends to help to pick up supplies.

Always remember to do the following as well to stay healthy:

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

Approximately 80% of Iowans infected with COVID-19, will experience only a mild to moderate illness. Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19. Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house. Stay home and isolate from others in the house until:

• You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers)

AND

• other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)

AND

• at least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

Howard County Business & Tourism and the Cresco Area Chamber of Commerce has been working with the Governor’s office and IEDA as we navigate our way forward during the pandemic.

Howard County Emergency Management would like to ask if anyone has N95 filter masks, would they please donate them to RHSHC at the hospital or Howard County Emergency Management at the Law Enforcement Center. Thank you.

If you have any questions, please let me know by emailing or calling the office.
Stay healthy everyone,

—

Hillary Zidlicky

Community and Economic Development

Associates

Office: 563-547-3434

m: 641-330-8519

e: hcbt@cedausa.com

w: www.cedausa.com

Mabel-Canton Schools- During the school closure related to the COVID-19 VIRUS, FREE cold sack Breakfast and Lunches are available to ANY child ages 0-18 years old, no matter what school they attend.  Please contact Jane Hall at jhall@mabelcanton.org or TEXT ONLY 507-272-9363

De Soto School District- School buses will be delivering the meals which may also come with homework assignments, and educational materials.  “Go Bags” will also be available at Stoddard Elementary, De Soto Middle/High School, and Prairie View Elementary for parent or student pick-up between 7:30-8:30 a.m. weekday mornings.

Seneca School District-  Click on the link to order meals for your children. It is currently set up through April 3rd. We will add additional dates if the closure continues. Please take advantage of this even if you feel your family does not NEED it. It’s great for our school and will provide some normalcy and familiarity to the children. https://forms.gle/Bwn59JyoyNMLS3ew8

Allamakee Community School District Waukon, IA- Grab N’ Go Meals for all children 18 and under.  Drive-Thru Pick Up Meal Services at Waukon Middle School.

Breakfast 7:30am-8:30 am

Lunch 11:30 am-12:30 pm

Monday through Friday March 20, 2020 until school reopens

Postville School Distrcit Postville, IA- Grab-n-Go School Lunches from 11:30-12:00 for all K-12 students at the Elementary building.  Please bring your backpack or plastic grocery sack to carry out your meals.

Eastern Allamakee School District Lansing & New Albin, IA- Grab & Go lunch for all children 18 and younger.  Pick up between 11:30-1230 Monday-Friday. Lunch available at Lansing and New Albin Centers.

MFL MAR-MAC School District-  Grab & Go Breakfast and Lunch for children at all communities which will be served by our district. These are FREE meals offered to all children 18 years of age and younger.  Students in need of Grab & Go Meals are invited to pick up at the designated locations listed below at 8 a.m. and noon, Monday – Friday, during the shutdown.

*McGregor

School Lunchroom

In front of McGregor Public Library

Breezy Point Shelter

*Marquette

Marquette Bench Diamond/Park

Marquette Under Bridge Park Parking Lot

*Farmersburg

City Park

St. John’s Lutheran Church Parking Lot

*Luana

St. John’s Lutheran Church Parking Lot

Park by Post Office

*Monona

School Lunchroom

Community Center Parking Lot

Howard-Winneshiek School District Cresco, IA-   Students will continue to receive both their school breakfast and lunch. Complete this form if you want school breakfast and lunch meals during the COVID-19 school closing.  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/hwcovid19

South Winneshiek School District- Grab and Go” meals will be available beginning Monday, March March 23, and distributed on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12:00-12:30.  Meals will be distributed throughout the district in Calmar, Festina, Ossian and Spillville.

Calmar  – South Winneshiek High School (southside by the high school office)

Festina  – Festina Community Center

Ossian – east/back door of the St. Teresa of Calcutta School

Spillville – Spillville School parking lot

Register here:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfx4EWyr9tlVPuG9HhIWDA5P_1ORSfdPpjmQz8PnbHyzwNhCg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1

Turkey Valley Schools- Free meals for children 18 and under.  Carry out breakfast and lunch will be provided. No identification or proof of school enrollment is required.

Curbside pick up at these locations:

Lawler- In front of library- Monday, Wednesday, Friday.  11-11:30AM

Fort Atkinson- Community Center- Monday, Wednesday.  Friday. 11-11:30AM

Protivin- Post Office- Monday, Wednesday, Friday.  11:45-12:15PM

St. Lucas- Church Parking Lot- Monday, Wednesday, Friday.  11-11:30AM

Waucoma- City Park- Monday, wednesday, Friday.  11:45-12:15PM

New Hampton School District- Drop off/pick up lunches and breakfast will begin on Wednesday, March 18th, at locations throughout the district from 11:30-12:30. Contact the school to sign up your child/children. If you have children who are not in school yet, meals can also be provided.

1. 1. New Hampton-Mikkelson Park and Elementary Playground
   2. Ionia- City Park
   3. Alta Vista- City Parking Lot
   4. North Washington-Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Parking Lot
   5. Jerico- Jerico Jo’s
   6. Hwy 63/18 Junction- Parking lot next to Ameritec

Caledonia School District- Caledonia Area Public Schools will be providing free bag meals during the mandated COVID-19 school closure. Bag meals will be offered starting Thursday, March 19th thru March 27th.

Caledonia Area Elementary School will be between 11:00-12:30 Monday through Friday

Drive into parking lot off Main Street and wait by the red cone for a staff person to bring the bags to your vehicle, please exit the parking/playground onto Grove Street.

Eitzen ——- Bus will be there about 11:30 near City Hall

Freeberg ——-Bus will be there about 11:30 near Community Center

Brownsville ——Bus will be there about 11:30 near City Hall/Community Center

Spring Grove Schools- FREE Meals are available for children 18 and under. Parents, if you haven’t already, please complete the survey so that we have a good idea of the number of meals to plan for. https://forms.gle/iQsQ975eJ21AyuaS8

When you pick up meals you might want to bring a reusable bag and a small cooler for cold items.

North Crawford School District- Meal deliveries within the district.  Please put a cooler near your front door for us to leave the food in. Contact Jen Kapinus at jkapinus@ncrawford.k12.wi.us or 608-735-7213.

Black Hills Energy Continues Focus on Customer and Employee Health and Safety in Response to Covid-19

Grimes, Ia. – March 20, 2020 – Black Hills Energy’s number one priority is the continued safety of our customers, employees and communities. We continue actively monitoring the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and have measures in place to ensure we continue to serve our customers in a way that is safe for everyone.

“We take the health and safety of our customers and employees very seriously and are committed to making practical decisions to appropriately protect all parties as our communities deal with the COVID-19 threat,” states Shirley Welte, vice president of operations. “We continue to closely monitor the frequently evolving environment and assess our processes alongside those developments.”

The company continues to work closely with local health, public safety and government officials to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and minimize the impact of service to customers.  Some of the actions the company has taken include:

• Black Hills Energy is temporarily suspending nonpayment disconnections for our customers. We realize that due to possible extended periods of isolation, customers may face financial hardships effecting their ability to timely pay their energy bills. Please visit www.blackhillsenergy.com/ to explore options to assist in those hardships.
• To minimize the potential spreading of COVID-19 Black Hills Energy will be asking customers who have had a fever, or dry cough within the last 48 hours to consider postponing non-emergency service calls.
• Crews will continue to respond to all emergency calls and will be wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and following health practices as recommended by the CDC and other health organizations.
• Employee travel has been limited to mission critical purposes.
• A work from home policy has been implemented for all employees who are able to do so.
• Paid leave is being provided for employees who test positive or are put under quarantine.
• All on-site meetings with consultants and gatherings of over ten people have been postponed and electronic communications are encouraged when possible.

Black Hills Energy is committed to serving the needs of our customers while also having the privilege and responsibility of providing an essential service that our communities rely on.  The company will continue to do its part to reduce the spread of the virus and take action as needed to support the health and safety of its employees, customers and communities.

###

Media Contact

Nicole Breitbach                       (563) 235-7854
nicole.breitbach@blackhillscorp.com

24-Hour Media Assistance        888-242-3969

About Black Hills Energy

Black Hills Corp. (NYSE: BKH) is a customer focused, growth-oriented utility company with a tradition of improving life with energy and a vision to be the energy partner of choice. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, the company serves 1.28 million natural gas and electric utility customers in eight states: Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming. More information is available at www.blackhillscorp.com and www.blackhillsenergy.com.

Drive-up or walk-up window will be open regular hours
ATM’s accept deposits and provide cash withdrawals
Online and Mobile Banking: view your balances, transactions and statements
Online applications for residential real estate, credit card, and checking/savings accounts
Deposit Checks by means of our Mobile App: snap a picture of your check to deposit into your
Kerndt Brothers Bank account
Set-up direct deposit to have peace of mind knowing your paycheck is in your account
Pay your bills through Online and Mobile Banking
Bank by mail
Drop your deposit in the Night Drop
As of March 19, 2020
LOBBY ACCESS
Kerndt Brothers Bank values the health of its staff and customers. We continue to monitor
recommendations from health agencies, and, for that reason, regular lobby access will be temporarily
limited.
If you need access to the lobby to enter your safe deposit box or meet with a banker please call your
local branch to make arrangements for a convenient time.
ALTERNATIVE BANKING CHANNELS
The bank offers many banking channels that enable our customers to meet their financial needs:
Many services to accommodate 24 hours a day:
BANKING INTO THE FUTURE
We continue to monitor the situation and may make changes to this schedule. A current schedule will
be maintained at www.kerndtbrothers.com and Kerndt Brothers Facebook site.
America’s financial foundation is dependent on its banks’ service to the community. Kerndt Brothers
Bank intends to remain open and serve its communities.
Thank you,
Jim Kerndt
800·577·5272

Effective March 23, 2020, Winneshiek Medical Center is deferring all elective care (care that can wait until later without putting you at risk).

This includes elective surgeries, procedures and office visits. Semi-urgent, urgent and  emergency care will continue in clinic and hospital settings. This deferment is in alignment with Mayo Clinic and Gundersen Health System.

If you have an appointment already scheduled, Winneshiek Medical Center staff will be contacting you to reschedule, if necessary.

Thank you for your understanding as we prepare our facility to respond to the needs of our communities.

Visitor restrictions updates:

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

507 W. Water St., Decorah, IA 52101
563.382.3990
Kristina@DecorahAreaChamber.com

March 19, 2020
Kristina Wiltgen, Executive Director
Buy now. Shop later.
The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting the local business community. As
a community we have supported each other through many difficult times and this time will be no
different.
The times are uncertain; the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to business and
community is not. In response to COVID-19, our office is closed to the public and our in-person meetings
and programs are postponed but we will continue to provide resources, engagement and leadership.
Remember all the businesses that have donated to your clubs, events and organizations? They’re calling
in a favor. Help us answer the call. The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce has set up a one stop shop
for all your local gift card purchases. Visit www.DecorahAreaChamber.com to support 35 (and counting!)
local businesses by purchasing gift cards.
We understand the difficulty our local businesses, and our local economy, will have in the coming
weeks or months. Many businesses are closed or operating under reduced hours or services.
Purchasing gift cards will support local business now while allowing you to shop as soon as doors are
open again.
Business hasn’t stopped, and neither has the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce. Learn more about
how we’re supporting you and how we can support each other by
visiting www.DecorahAreaChamber.com.
The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce mission is to be the trusted resource in the business
community for advocacy, collaboration, and education.

Houston County Resource List Last updated March 19, 2020 (This list will be updated as much as possible. If you have an update, please comment on the post with this link at the top of the Houston County Emergency Management Facebook page. Also check that post for the most recent updates.) 

What You Need to Know: 

• As of 3/18, there is a shortage of test kits in Minnesota. At this time, priority of testing is for hospitalized patients, healthcare workers, and long-term care residents.
• IF YOU HAVE ANY GENERAL SYMPTOMS: PLEASE STAY HOME. Any respiratory symptoms may be attributed to COVID-19. Stay home at least 7 days after symptoms go away, or at least 3 days after your fever leaves.
• Mayo Clinic: If you are showing any sign of possible COVID-19 symptoms, please contact your local health provider. Your provider or a nurse will direct you to our dedicated COVID-19 Nurse Line.
• Gundersen: Call your primary care provider or call our Telephone Nurse Advisors (24/7, 365): 608-775-4454 or 800-858-1050.

City Services & Businesses Information Table of Contents Brownsville ………………………………………………………………………………………………….2 Caledonia ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Eitzen …………………………………………………………………………………………………………4 Freeburg ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………4 Hokah …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..5 Houston ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….6 La Crescent …………………………………………………………………………………………………………..7 Spring Grove ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..8

1

Brownsville Essential Services: 

• Located at the City Hall/Community Center, bus will be there around 11:30 Monday – Friday. Caledonia Area Public Schools will be providing free bag meals during the mandated COVID-19 school closure. Bag meals will be offered starting March 19th thru March 27th. The sack will contain a breakfast (grain, cheese stick, fruit, juice) and a lunch (a sandwich, fruit, vegetable, and a beverage). Any child, in your household 18 years of age or younger is eligible to receive one of these bags of meals. All bag meals will be offered FREE of charge regardless if your student is eligible for free/reduced meals to household members 18 and under.

Restaurants & Food: 

• Saxon Hall: Regular menu available as take out and delivery (delivery only to city limits of Brownsville and not on gravel roads)

2

Caledonia Essential Services: 

• FOOD SHELF: Donations of both food and money are needed. They are looking specifically for: hot dogs, hot dog buns, canned pasta, 2 lb packages of hamburger, hamburger helper. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays at normal times.
• Caledonia City Hall, Police Station, Public Library: CLOSED until further notice. City staff will be available by phone at 507-725-3450 and by email. Non-emergency police assistance: 507-725- 3889. Utility bills can be paid using the box outside city hall, by calling 507-725-3450, or online through Payment Service Network, which can be accessed through the city website. All debit/credit surcharges through phone payments are waived.
• Located at the Caledonia Elementary School between 11:00-12:30 Monday – Friday through March 27: Caledonia Area Public Schools will be providing free bag meals during the mandated COVID-19 school closure. Bag meals will be offered starting March 19th thru March 27th. The sack will contain a breakfast (grain, cheese stick, fruit, juice) and a lunch (a sandwich, fruit, vegetable, and a beverage). Any child, in your household 18 years of age or younger is eligible to receive one of these bags of meals. All bag meals will be offered FREE of charge regardless if your student is eligible for free/reduced meals to household members 18 and under.
• Caledonia Community Giving is available with volunteers if you have needs at this time. Contact them via facebook @Caledoniachampions.

Restaurants & Food: 

• AJ’s Bar & Grill: Full menu pickup or delivery (3-mile radius). Open Wednesday-Friday to start, weekend to be determined.
• Caledonia Bakery: Limiting the number of customers in the bakery at a time. You can call to place your order and staff will bring it out to you in your car. You can also call ahead. Normal business hours.
• Chuck’s Old-Fashioned Meats: Normal hours, offering delivery arrangements after 6 pm by calling 507-725-BEEF (2333).
• Elsie’s: Regular menu available as pickup and delivery. Pickup window is the window next to the telephone booth on the north side of the building.
• The Farmhouse Eatery & Gifts: CLOSED until further notice.
• Redwood Café: Hours 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM Monday – Sunday, Friday 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Carry- out services ONLY (NO dine-in service). Call 507-725-2270 for your order.
• Wired Rooster: Selling all perishables on discount until sold. Once perishables are sold, they are closed until March 27th

Community: 

• Buckboard: Closed until further notice
• Caledonia Argus: Offices closed during business hours. You can contact via Facebook, email, or call the office at 507-724-3475. Virus-related stories posted to website free of charge.
• MAAD Alley: CLOSED through March 27th
• Mary Ann’s Floral/Pine Cone Place: Open with normal hours. Spring Open House has been cancelled.

3

Eitzen Essential Services: 

• City Hall: Remaining open at this time during normal hours.
• Located at City Hall, the bus will be there around 11:30 Monday – Friday through March 27. Caledonia Area Public Schools will be providing free bag meals during the mandated COVID-19 school closure. Bag meals will be offered starting March 19th thru March 27th. The sack will contain a breakfast (grain, cheese stick, fruit, juice) and a lunch (a sandwich, fruit, vegetable, and a beverage). Any child, in your household 18 years of age or younger is eligible to receive one of these bags of meals. All bag meals will be offered FREE of charge regardless if your student is eligible for free/reduced meals to household members 18 and under.
• To get signed up for meals on wheels (or to help deliver meals), call: 507-864-8228

Restaurants & Food: 

• Gater’s Bar & Grill is offering carry-out food from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, and 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm daily. Hours of operations are 11:00 – 7:00 daily with off-sale available.

Freeburg Essential Services: 

• Located at the Community Center, the bus will be there around 11:30 Monday – Friday through March 27. Caledonia Area Public Schools will be providing free bag meals during the mandated COVID-19 school closure. Bag meals will be offered starting March 19th thru March 27th. The sack will contain a breakfast (grain, cheese stick, fruit, juice) and a lunch (a sandwich, fruit, vegetable, and a beverage). Any child, in your household 18 years of age or younger is eligible to receive one of these bags of meals. All bag meals will be offered FREE of charge regardless if your student is eligible for free/reduced meals to household members 18 and under.

4

Hokah Essential Services: 

• Hokah City Offices: Closed to the public starting Wednesday, March 18 and may last two weeks or longer. City staff will be available to assist citizens by phone at 507-894-4990 and by email. Non-emergency city police assistance: 507-894-4777.
• Hokah Public Library: Closed to the public starting Tuesday, March 17 at 7:00 pm until further notice.
• La Crescent Schools will be providing student meals. Please contact your child’s school building office or the food service department to get on the list. This is for all students in the community including the Montessori school and private/home school children. Locations and times for services are:

o La Crescent Mayo Clinic lot 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o Dresbach-By Bobcat 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o La Crescent Pool Parking lot 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o High School Parking lot 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o Hokah Fire Hall 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o Brownsville Community Center 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM

• To get signed up for meals on wheels or to volunteer to deliver, call: 507-864-8228.

Community: 

• Hokah Firefighters Association Gun Raffle: Postponed until May 16, 2020 at 7:00 pm at Hokah City Hall.

5

Houston Essential Services: 

• City Hall: Closed to the public until further notice. Drop off your city payments in the drop box to the right of the door. Call the office at 507-896-4033 if you need assistance.
• Community Center, Nature Center, Library: Closed until further notice.
• Student Lunches: Houston Schools will be providing meal bundles (breakfast, lunch, snack). To sign up for the meal bundle or just lunch (typical meal prices), call 507-896-5323, option 8. State your name, names of children for whom you want meals, if you want lunch or the meal bundle, which weekdays you’d like it prepared, the time between 10:00 – 1:00 you can pick up OR the need for delivery due to lack of transportation or medical fragility and give your address.
• To get signed up for meals on wheels or to volunteer to deliver, call: 507-864-8228.

Restaurants & Food: 

• Barista’s Coffee House: Normal hours and all orders are made to go.

Community: 

• Valley High Golf Club: Closed until March 28.

6

La Crescent Essential Services: 

• FOOD SHELF: Open normal hours at the curb of the new location: 436 South 6th Street. They are providing pre-packed bags of food. New phone number is 507-895-1115. If you would like to donate financially, write your check to “La Crescent Food Shelf” and mail it to the HCP Center at 333 Main Street, La Crescent, MN 55947 or give online at https://givemn.org/story/LaCrescentFoodShelf
• City Hall: After 5:00 PM on Wednesday, March 18, offices will be closed to the public. Staff will be on hand to answer questions via phone. Main office line: 507-895-2595. For other numbers, visit the City of La Crescent Facebook page or the city website. You may place water payments in the dropbox outside the front door. Permits can be done online via the city website. You can renew your license plate tabs online at www.dvs.dps.mn.gov.
• La Crescent Schools will be providing student meals. Please contact your child’s school building office or the food service department to get on the list. This is for all students in the community including the Montessori school and private/home school children. Locations and times for services are:

o La Crescent Mayo Clinic lot 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o Dresbach-By Bobcat 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o La Crescent Pool Parking lot 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o High School Parking lot 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o Hokah Fire Hall 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM o Brownsville Community Center 10:30 – 11:30 AM 4:30 – 6:00PM

• La Crescent Senior Dining is offering delivery only to all clients. You can sign up to be on the delivery route or to help volunteer by calling 507-864-8231.
• To get on the meals on wheels list or to volunteer to deliver, please call 507-895-6585.

Transportation: 

• As of 3/18, Apple Express is still operating normally. Visit La Crosse MTU Facebook page for the most up to date information. Community: 
• Chamber of Commerce: Monthly membership meeting March 18th CANCELLED.

7

Spring Grove Essential Services: 

• During the mandated school closure, Spring Grove Schools will be serving free meals (breakfast and lunch) to all children under the age of 18. Meals will be grab n’ go. Pick up times are between 11:00 – 12:30 on regularly scheduled school days. You can pick up at Door 1 of the school or at Viking Memorial Park, either at the white school van or at the log cabin. If you would like your child to receive meals, please fill out the survey here: https://forms.gle/ZpmPafiwt6scQeg6A
• Spring Grove City Hall is closed to the public until further notice. Payments can be left in the drop box next to the front door or by the back garage. If you have questions or need assistance, please call 507-498-5221. Staff will be available 8-5 Monday through Friday. Public restrooms at the log cabin and fest building are closed until further notice.
• To get on the meals on wheels list or to volunteer to deliver, please call: 507-498-3385.
• If you need more resources about what is available and community happenings, please check out the Caring For Our Neighbors, Spring Grove Area Facebook page.

Restaurants & Food: 

• Doc’s Blue Moose is closed temporarily due to the severity of the pandemic.
• Ivy Grove Café is open regular hours with carry out orders ONLY. Call 507-498-5450 to order.
• The Lounge in The Corner is off-sale only from 12 pm – 10 pm through March 27.
• Red’s IGA will shop for you. Drive up to the coffee shop drive thru window, hand your list to a barista, and they will get your order ready. You may pick up your order after an hour.

Community: 

• Spring Grove Cinema is closed until further notice.

8

Winneshiek County Emergency Management
400 Claiborne Drive
Decorah, IA 52101
(563) 387-4095
ssnyder@co.winneshiek.ia.us
March 18, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Winneshiek County Emergency Management
Contact: Sean Snyder, Coordinator
RE: SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA)
On March 9, 2020 Governor Reynolds signed a state of Iowa Disaster Proclamation pertaining to the
COVID-19 pandemic. Winneshiek County signed a local Disaster Declaration on Monday March 16,
2020.
Important Information for Small Businesses in Iowa Affected by COVID-19 – Latest Update on
SBA Disaster Assistance (as of March 16, 2020 – 5:00 p.m. CST)
Here is the latest information we have regarding disaster assistance from the U.S. Small Business
Administration (SBA).
We’re waiting on Iowa to be designated as eligible for small businesses in the state to apply for
assistance in the form of Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). Because these are Economic Injury
loans, the rules require each state to demonstrate economic losses to SBA before we can declare the
counties within a state as eligible to apply for the loans. The Governor’s Office has been working with
SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance to get the appropriate statistics for the application. Unfortunately,
we don’t have a timetable as to when a decision will be made, but hopefully it will be soon.
Small businesses who have been impacted and want to pass their information on to the state are
encouraged to reach out to their County Emergency Management office. They will then provide
statistics on the number of affected businesses to the state as part of Iowa’s application to SBA.
Eligible businesses would apply directly to SBA for assistance as EIDL is a direct loan program.
As soon a declaration is made in Iowa, we will be getting the word out from our office through every
means we have. You can also go to www.sba.gov/disaster, click on the “Apply for Assistance” button
and then click on “Eligible Disaster Areas” and search “Iowa” to see what’s available. The most recent
declaration will be at the top and that’s where you’ll find information on the COVID 19 EIDL Loans as
soon as Iowa is declared eligible. This website is also where businesses will apply for these loans
once Iowa is declared eligible.
Winneshiek County Emergency Management
400 Claiborne Drive
Decorah, IA 52101
(563) 387-4095
ssnyder@co.winneshiek.ia.us
We also have a Website that encompasses ALL the information we have available for Small Business
related to COVID-19. We encourage you to check it out.
Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019
(COVID-19) – https://www.sba.gov/page/guidance-businesses-employers-plan-respond-coronavirusdisease-2019-covid-19.
For additional information please contact the Winneshiek County Emergency Management office at
563-387-4095 or ssnyder@co.winneshiek.ia.us. Email is preferred at this time due to the high number
of phone calls being received.
This is an official Emergency Management press release. Modifications of any kind are prohibited without express written
consent of the author. Any reprint or broadcast of this information must include this entire communication.
###

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2020
Contact: Krista Vanden Brink BA, RN Nancy Sacquitne RN, BSN
kvandenbrink@winneshiekhealth.org nsacquitne@winneshiekhealth.org
First Case of COVID-19 Confirmed in Winneshiek County
A case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been confirmed in Winneshiek County. According to the
Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), the individual is self-isolating at home.
“While this is Winneshiek County’s first case, it may not be the last, and that’s why we encourage all
residents to continue to make prevention a priority,” said Winneshiek County Public Health Director
Krista VandenBrink.
• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow/upper arm.
• Staying home when ill.
Approximately 80% of Iowans infected with COVID-19, will experience only a mild to moderate illness.
Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have
COVID-19. Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house. Stay home
and isolate from others in the house until:
• You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever without the use of
medicine that reduces fevers)
AND
• other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have
improved)
AND
• at least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.
If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in
the office or if you can recover at home. There may also be options for you to talk to a medical provider
from home using technology.
If additional questions, we encourage use of the 2-1-1 call line.
For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the IDPH webpage at https://idph.iowa.gov/EmergingHealth-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus and follow the department on Facebook at
@IowaDepartmentOfPublicHealth and on Twitter at @IAPublicHealth.
###

Update Coronavirus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vosseteig Funeral Homes Press Release Re: COVID-19

For Immediate Release

March 18, 2020

Vosseteig Funeral Homes Press Release Re: COVID-19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MiEnergy Cooperative offices close to the public

Co-op makes changes to annual meeting

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

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

ANNUAL MEETING AND ELECTION NOTICE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your patricipation! 

https://forms.gle/ZpmPafiwt6sCQeg6A

NEICAC Family Services & Food Pantries Still Serving Residents

For immediate release –

Decorah, Iowa

March 18, 2020

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

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

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

XXX

For more information, please contact:

Trisha Wilkins, Executive Director
Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation
563.387.4911

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

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

-The Family Table  Restaurant is Closed until March 31st

-TBocks in downtown Decorah is closed until April 2nd

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

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

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

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

-Diane’s Cafe, Hawkeye 563-427-3315

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

-Dairy Queen, West Union 563-422-6284

-the Mint in Protivin

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

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

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

-Jets MEATS AND CAFE 563-568-2620

-Buzzards In New Albin IA 544-4422

-Luana Tap. 563-539-4380

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

-Ktown tap, Kendallville 563-547-3256

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

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

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

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

–Alpha Tap, Alpha: 563-429-3051

-Farr Side, Spillville. 563 562 3114

–Buzzards, New Albin 563-544-4422

-The Barrel Drive in in West Union IS Open

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

563-382-4666, nate@oneotacoop.com

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

Decorah, Iowa, 03/17/20 –

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

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

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

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

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

David Lester, GM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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