Community News Stories

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

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

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

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

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

Read the Lion’s Roar for all the details!

https://www.springgrove.k12.mn.us/sites/springgrove.k12.mn.us/files/files/Private_User/rachel.udstuen/March 13 (1).pdf

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

   Kristen Torresdal, Library Director, PIO

City of Decorah COVID Response

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media Release

For Immediate Release

March 15, 2020

Subject:  Granny Basketball® Games

Contact:  Barbara Trammell

319-389-7174

sixonsix@grannybasketball.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Todd Duncan, 563-419-5006

DJ Friest, 563-419-0462

Brian Fankhauser, 515-249-1338

Mike Halverson, 563-419-5251

Gavin Nimrod, 563-379-8915

Thank you for your continued support of Winneshiek Pheasants Forever.

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

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

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

9 AM – Water Aerobics

10 AM – Princess Yoga

11 AM – Cycling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, February 4

Story Time, 10:30am

Stay & Play, 11am

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

Special Story Time, 10:30am

Thursday, February 6

Tech Tutor, 10am-12pm

Saturday, February 8

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

Tuesday, February 11

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

Library Board Meeting, 4:30pm

Thursday, February 13

Tech Tutor, 10am-12pm

Pinterest Projects: Pulled String Art, 5:30pm

Monday, February 17

Teen Advisory Board (TAB), 4pm

Tuesday, Feburary 18

Story Time, 10:30am

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

Thursday, February 20

Tech Tutor, 10am-12pm

Foundation Book Sale, 2-6pm

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

Tuesday, February 25

Story Time, 10:30am

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

Thursday, February 27

Tech Tutor, 10am-12pm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

563-382-4666, nate@oneotacoop.com

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

Decorah, Iowa, 12/16/19 –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We hope you all have a fantastic holiday weekend!

—

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

News Release                                                 Contact:

                                                                        Jenna Haynes

Wednesday, November 27, 2019                                                       563-387-3143

haynesj@winmedical.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

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

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

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

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

November 26, 2019

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mary Marx, Winneshiek Medical Center Marketing Representative

563-387-3020 ● marxm@winmedical.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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November 26, 2019

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mary Marx, Director of Marketing & Communications

563-387-3020 ●marxm@winmedical.org

Mental health care expands at Winneshiek Medical Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was written by:

Helping Services for Youth & Families

November 13, 2019

Youth Mentoring is Seeking Friends for Youth

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

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

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

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

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

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

###

This article was written by:

Helping Services for Youth & Families

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winneshiek Medical Center Auxiliary holds Collective Goods & Bake Sale— Nov. 19

The Winneshiek Medical Center Auxiliary will hold their annual Collective Goods Book and Bake Sale on Tuesday, November 19 from 7 am – 3 pm in the Winneshiek Medical Center lower level conference rooms.  The sale will feature unique books and gifts from Collective Goods as well as homemade treats from WMC Auxiliary members.

Proceeds from all Auxiliary fund raisers, including profits from the WMC Gift Shop, benefit Winneshiek Medical Center by supporting program and equipment needs, as well as the Auxiliary Health Career Scholarship.

To learn more about Auxiliary events, contact the Winneshiek Medical Center Volunteer Services department at 563-387-3036.

National Philanthropy Day is quickly approaching on Friday, November 15, 2019.

This is a day to recognize and pay tribute to the contributions that people and organizations have made to our lives, community, and our world.

The Association of Fundraising Professionals, Upper Mississippi Valley Chapter will be honoring the following individuals and organizations on November 15, 2019 at a luncheon to be held at the Lunda Center on the campus of Western Technical College from 11:30am to 1pm.

Honorees this year include:

• Outstanding Philanthropists: Marilyn and Jeff Roverud of Decorah, IA
• Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: Kevin O’Reilly of Winona, MN
• Outstanding Philanthropic Organization: Dahl Automotive
• President’s Award: Rotary Works Foundation

See more information on the four recipients in the following pages.

The public is welcome to attend. Tickets for the luncheon are just $30, or a full table for eight can be purchased for $240 online.

Contacting Mary Kay Wolf (see below).

Outstanding Philanthropists
2019 NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY AWARDS LUNCHEON
Jeff & Marilyn Roverud

“Service” and “community” have been constants in the lives of Jeff and Marilyn Roverud. They have shared their gifts and talents through individual efforts and as a team. Highlights of leadership for Jeff include serving on the Iowa Limestone Association Board of Directors for 14 years including service as president. He also served on the National Stone Association Board of Directors and was elected chair of that board, traveling the U.S. representing the stone industry. A two-time Paul Harris Fellow of the Decorah Rotary Club, Jeff joined other club members on a mission trip to Panama working on a clean water project for indigenous people.

Marilyn has served on the boards of Humanities Iowa, Lutheran Services of Iowa,  Decorah Community Schools Foundation, and the Greater Decorah Community Foundation, and on the candidacy committee of the Northeastern Iowa Synod of the ELCA. Serving Luther College as a member of the Board of Regents for 12 years, including eight years as secretary, has been a lifetime privilege.

Together the Roveruds have shared their philanthropic giving with their alma mater, Luther College, by establishing endowed student scholarships, endowed faculty fellowships, and sharing their leadership in numerous campaigns along with participation in the Luther College Annual Fund. Multiple community organizations and initiatives have been recipients of their support including Vesterheim NorwegianAmerican Museum, where they have sponsored the Syttende Mai celebration for 17 continuous years.

The Roveruds are the parents of two daughters—Kirsten Roverud Heine of Decorah, Iowa, and Suzanne Roverud Mineck of Waukee, Iowa. They are active, long-time members of First Lutheran Church in Decorah.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
2019 NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY AWARDS LUNCHEON
Kevin O’Reilly

Kevin O’Reilly from Winona, Minn., Vice President of Strategic Sourcing at Peerless Chain volunteers as an organizer for Winona ORC’s Annual Sponsorship drive.

He raises between $50K and $60K each year for those with disabilities seeking employment. Not only does Kevin volunteer to lead the sponsorship drive, he also manages the annual golf tournament committee, making sure the event is not only fun but rewarding as well. Kevin also volunteers his time coordinating and delivering meals to those in need through a partnership between Peerless Chain and Volunteer Services.

Kevin is a graduate of the Blandin Community Leadership Program; he was volunteer of the year in 2011 for the Winona Area United Way, and also served several years on the Winona ORC board as a member and President beginning in 2008. The hours of volunteer time spent by Kevin raising funds for Winona ORC is immeasurable. Winona ORC staff reflected on a recent conversation they had with Kevin’s wife, Sue. After complimenting her family on the outstanding volunteer work they do in the Winona Community, Sue shared their belief “to whom much is given, much is expected.” To this Winona ORC staff, that was a perfect way to describe Kevin and his commitment to Winona ORC and the community it serves.

Outstanding Philanthropic Organization
2019 NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY AWARDS LUNCHEON
Dahl Automotive

Philanthropy has always been important to the Dahl Family, dating all the way back to 1911. In fact, one of Dahl Automotive’s Core Values is “Promote Giving Back to our Community”. Over the past 15 years the Dahl Family Foundation has awarded almost 70 grants totaling over $4.5 million.

One of the major fundraising events Dahl Automotive conducts occurs in September; the Dahl Automotive Lube-a-Thon. Through this fundraiser and other annual support, the company showed their dedication to a local non-profit. The event is run completely by volunteers; including Dahl team members, representatives from the benefiting charity, and family members of both organizations. With all of the supplies donated by many generous sponsors, 100% of the money raised goes directly to the non-profit.

Since the event’s inception over $150,000 has been raised.

President’s Award
2019 NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY AWARDS LUNCHEON
Rotary Works Foundation, Inc.

The Rotary Works Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 organization sponsored by area Rotary Clubs that encourages Rotarians to enact the Rotary Four Way Test by financially supporting local and international charitable and educational activities. The Foundation grants over $25,000 per year to organizations in need.

The Rotary Club of La Crosse founded the Rotary Foundation in 1982 to provide a separate agency to award grants for local and international activities which fall under the criteria established.

In 2008, the foundation became a regional foundation and changed its name. Rotary Works Foundation is made up of the nine Rotary Clubs in the area — La Crosse Downtown, La Crosse East, La Crosse After Hours, Valley View, Onalaska, Onalaska Hilltopper, Holmen, Caledonia and La Crescent and is governed by a board made up of members from each of the clubs.

The efforts of the Rotary Works Foundation are supported in large part by the nine Rotary clubs and individual members of those clubs. Because of the large scope of many of the activities, the Foundation enthusiastically welcomes contributions and memorial gifts from people who share its commitment to improving the quality of life in the La Crosse area and the world.

AFP – Upper Mississippi Valley Chapter President, Rose Dobbs, selected The Rotary Works Foundation for the President’s Award because of her personal connection to Rotary. Rose was a Rotary Youth Exchange Student in 1996, sponsored by La Crosse Downtown Club. Since that time she has held a special place in her heart for the work that Rotary does for the community and the world. Rose’s late father, Tom Reinert, was also very active in the La Crosse Downtown Club serving as president, a Paul Harris Fellow, and as an outbound coordinator for the Rotary Youth Exchange.

Winneshiek Medical Center is pleased to welcome Jennifer Becker, ARNP, to the medical practice.  Jennifer recently joined the ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialty at Winneshiek Medical Center, led by Mayo Clinic Health System physician William Remington, M.D.

Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and her Master of Science in Nursing, specializing as a family nurse practitioner, from Walden University.  Prior to receiving her advanced degree, she worked as a home health and hospice nurse.

“The Ear, Nose and Throat practice at WMC provides such a wide breadth of care with many unique cases.  I look forward to specializing in this area and help provide greater access to ENT services for our patients,” says Jennifer.

ENT specialists treat conditions of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck, including:  hearing loss, dizziness, sinus problems, voice problems, and skin cancer.  At Winneshiek Medical Center, Dr. Remington performs minimally invasive sinus surgeries (Balloon Sinuplasty), ear tube insertion, tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy and many other surgical procedures.  The ENT specialty also works alongside full time Mayo Clinic Health System audiologist Cynthia See, Au.D.

To make an appointment at Winneshiek Medical Center, call 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online at www.winmedical.org/mychart.

Cutline: Jennifer Becker, ARNP, recently joined the Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT) practice at Winneshiek Medical Center Decorah Clinic.  Becker (seated) is pictured with Mayo Clinic Health System physicians William Remington, M.D. and Cynthia See, Au.D.

Winneshiek County Public Health is offering an Early Bird walk-in flu clinic to the public at the Winneshiek County Public Health office at 305 Montgomery St., Decorah this Friday, October 11, 2019 from 7-10 a.m. Cost of the vaccine is $30 and is for everyone ages 6 mos. and older. Currently, we do not have the high dose flu for ages 65 and older and are expecting another shipment later next week, BUT have sufficient amounts of the quadrivalent (4) strain available and will help to get you covered. It takes 2 weeks for you to be fully covered against the influenza with the vaccination so please don’t delay and get yourself protected.

Please be aware that water line repair is occurring outside the west entrance. That entrance is still open and you may also enter the south side of the building.

If you have questions regarding possible insurance coverage, please call 563-382-4662 for answers. Don’t delay, get your flu shot now. No appointments necessary.

The Allamakee County Economic Development (ACED) Board of Directors announced WW Homestead Dairy as the 2019 Cloy Kuhse Positive Impact Award winner at the ACED Annual Meeting hosted in Harpers Ferry on Thursday, October 10. This annual award was created to highlight and recognize a business that is making a positive impact in Allamakee County, as well as, to honor the memory of Cloy Kuhse and his vision. WW Homestead Dairy now joins the list of annual award recipients including Growing Bear Daycare & PreSchool of Waukon, New Albin Savings Bank, Waukon Dental, Mike Ferring Construction of Waukon, TASC of Waukon, Wuennecke’s Meat Market of New Albin, and NorplexMicarta of Postville.

WW Homestead Dairy includes the families of Tom & Angie Weighner, Paul Weighner, and Tom & Janet Walleser. The dairy has 10 full time employees and 8-10 part time employees making and delivering dairy products throughout Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

ACED Board President Christina Drahos shared the following comment from the nomination, “WW Homestead Dairy embodies all that is good with our American Spirit. Three families looking for a new way to market their own dairy products teamed up to start a new business, take the leap of faith, and pour their heart and soul into the adventure.”

Val Reinke, Allamakee County Economic Development, Executive Director shared with audience, “The dairy offers really fun events such as the drive in mooovies, Friday Night Cruisin’, Corn Days car show, opportunities for organizations to fundraise, social media fun – name that calf, create the next ice cream flavor, photos of farm livin’ and so much more.”

Thank you to Kyle & Bobbie Goetzinger and Andy & Erica Wagner for taking the time to nominate this deserving business for the Cloy Kuhse Positive Impact Award.

The Oneota Valley Community Orchestra (OVCO) celebrates its 6th season in 2019-2020 under the leadership of Music Director, Matthew Cody. The first concert is on Sunday, October 27, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. in the Decorah High School Auditorium. Musique Française! will feature French music of the late romantic period and will include music by Jaques Offenbach, Georges Bizet, and César Franck.

The season continues on January 10th thru January 11th when the OVCO presents a fully staged production of the opera Amahl and the Night Visitors by Gian Carlo Menotti. “A family friendly opera originally written for NBC to broadcast live in the 1950’s, it is a beautiful score and we’re thrilled to be able to present it to our audience!” said OVCO director Matthew Cody. Both performances will take place at 7:00 p.m. in the Decorah High School Auditorium. Ticket information will be available on the website.

The third performance of the season will take place on Sunday, February 23 at 3:00 p.m. at the Decorah High School Auditorium. This concert includes Beethoven’s violin concerto with violinist Rebecca Corruccini of the Minnesota Orchestra and a North American premiere, by local composer Ben Hippen, American Nocturne. Also on the program is Rossini’s Overture to The Barber of Seville and Tchaikovsky’s Marche Slav.

The orchestra’s season finale is on April 26th at 3:00 p.m. when OVCO will once again have an opportunity to collaborate with the Decorah Chorale and director Jason Rausch. The orchestra and chorale will perform Carl Orff’s famous Carmina Burana in the Decorah High School Auditorium. “Carmina is one of those pieces from classical music that has filtered itself into pop culture and parts of it are recognizable by almost everyone. It has remained immensely popular in concert halls since it’s premiere 82 years ago. This is going to be awesome!” said Cody.

The Oneota Valley Community Orchestra was founded in 2014 and has grown to be one of the leading orchestras in the area providing Oneota Valley with rich cultural and educational opportunities. The OVCO is sponsored by the Marion E. Jerome Foundation and the Depot Outlet.

You, like many others, may have training in CPR to stabilize those who are not breathing or in cardiac arrest until emergency responders arrive. CPR (short for cardiopulmonary resuscitation) has saved countless lives of those we love in their time of need. But what about the times when people are in a mental health crisis? Do you have the skills and training to perform life-saving mental health intervention?

QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer — the three simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. Bridgette Hensley, Psy.D., Mayo Clinic Health System psychologist and QPR certified trainer at Winneshiek Medical Center says, “Everyone should be trained in QPR. Suicide is one of the most preventable kinds of death. QPR provides hope and empowers people to help by teaching them how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade, and refer someone to help.”

The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. QPR training is for anyone: parents, friends, neighbors, teachers, ministers, doctors, nurses, office supervisors, foremen, advisors, caseworkers, law enforcement, and many others who are strategically positioned to recognize and refer someone at risk of suicide.

Dr. Hensley says, “In CPR the general public is educated about the classic signs of a heart attack, and then taught how to respond. In QPR participants are educated about the known warning signs of a suicide crisis: expressions of hopelessness, depression, giving away prized possessions, talking of suicide, securing lethal means, and then taught how to respond.”

Dr. Hensley adds, “The more people trained in QPR in our community, the more lives will be saved.”

Free QPR Training at WMC
Winneshiek Medical Center is holding a free QPR training in the WMC lower level conference rooms on Thursday, November 14 from 6:30 – 8 pm.

The training is appropriate for teens and older, and is led by Dr. Hensley. Space is limited and registration is appreciated by Friday, November 8. Register online at www.winmedical.org/QPR-training or call WMC at 563-382-2911 and ask for Behavioral Health.

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Photo Cutline:
Bridgette Hensley, Psy.D., Mayo Clinic Health System psychologist and QPR certified trainer at Winneshiek Medical Center.

Cresco, IA | Rushford, MN (8 a.m. Oct. 23, 2019)— MiEnergy Cooperative’s Operation Round Up Trust Board met in September and elected to donate $5,300 to the following local organizations:

• $1,000, St. Lucas Fire Association, Iowa, to support the building of a new fire station.
• $750, Fillmore Central Public Schools, Preston, Minn., for a take home science experiment backpack program.
• $750, St. Charles Public Library, Minn., to help purchase a speaker system.
• $750, Winona County Emergency Management, Winona, Minn., for a winter survival kits for children program.
• $500, Lawler Lions Club, Iowa to support building a new shelter and Croell Park improvements.
• $500, Wykoff Fire Department, Minn., to help purchase road safety equipment.
• $300, Empty Bowls of Harmony, Minn., to purchase event supplies that support Fillmore County food shelves.
• $300, Peace Lutheran Church, Ridgeway, Iowa, to purchase an automatic external defibrillator.
• $250, Mobile Mamma, Cresco, Iowa., to support educational materials for online safety program.
• $200, Decorah Quilts of Valor, Iowa, to purchase fabric for quilts for veterans.

Operation Round Up is funded by donations made by members of MiEnergy Cooperative who voluntarily have their electric bill round up to the next dollar. About 1,800 members currently participate with the average donation being $6 a year per member.

The program is based on the idea that small change adds up. Currently, the program gives away about $10,000 each year to local organizations.

The Operation Round Up Trust Board chooses where the funds get donated and the amount of the donation based on an application process. The trust board members include: John Bronk, of Winona, Minn., president; Janelle Mahr, of Lime Springs, Iowa, vice president; Margaret Knutson, of Houston, Minn., secretary/treasurer; Larry Hafner, of La Crescent, Minn.; Allen Hanson, of Preston, Minn.; Arlene Hegge, of La Crescent, Minn.; Shannon Schmelzer, of Cresco, Iowa; and PerryO Sliwa, Decorah, Iowa.

Donations to Operation Round Up are tax deductible. Organizations receive grants through an application process. The next application deadline is February 15. To learn more about Operation Round Up or to round up your electric bill, visit www.MiEnergy.coop or call 1-800-432-2285.

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 18,700 members in northeastern Iowa and southeastern Minnesota. MiEnergy is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

Luther College inauguration weekend kicks off with an “Inaugural Night on the Town”

President Jenifer K. Ward encourages everyone to join in the inauguration celebration Friday night in downtown Decorah

DECORAH, Iowa — “I want you to understand we are your college and you are our town,” said President Jenifer K. Ward at the Decorah Rotary Club in August. Since her arrival, President Ward has been enthusiastic about the partnership between campus and community and the opportunity to grow this important relationship. That’s why the Friday before her inauguration she suggested an “Inaugural Night on the Town” in downtown Decorah. Friday evening, Nov. 1, downtown shops, restaurants and venues will be open for all to enjoy and special entertainment is planned.

“I’m extremely excited for the city of Decorah to be included in the inauguration of President Ward,” said Decorah Mayor Lorraine Borowski.
This event is designed to embrace the connection between Luther and the Decorah community. Luther is partnering with the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce to make this special night happen. “This is a great opportunity for businesses to participate in something that brings in people from out of town and brings the Luther community downtown to start creating those connections because there could be a lot of power between those two economic drivers,” said Kristina Wiltgen, executive director of the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce. “The businesses I have heard from so far are very excited that people will be pushed into the community rather than isolated on campus and they are excited for this kind of outreach and thinking of President Ward’s.”

Special entertainment and activities are planned for the occasion. All events are open to the public with no charge for admission:

• 6–7:30 p.m. – Open mic event at West Music (126 East Water), performers are welcome to stop in and sing or play
• 7:30 p.m. – Luther a capella groups Beautiful Mess, Bromatic Progression, Fermata Nowhere and Undeclared perform at Impact Coffee (101 West Water)
• 7:30 p.m. – Luther Ballroom and Swing Club, demonstrations and lessons at the Lingonberry Event Center (218 West Water)
• 7:30–9:30 p.m. – Free tours of the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, the gift shop will also be open
• 9 p.m. – Live music with the Bigmouth Buffalo String Band, which consists of current students and alumni including Colin Cosgrove, Jeffrey Lackmann and Nick Vande Krol, at the Courtyard and Cellar (421 West Water)

A full list of business remaining open for the event can be found at luther.edu/inauguration/schedule/Decorah.

Luther College is home to more than 1,900 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our 60+ academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.

Unique Preparation for NMP’s Alice in Wonderland

How do 45 children get ready for the upcoming New Minowa Players show Alice in Wonderland? There are the usual things like practicing lines, entrances, where to stand, and song lyrics that are part of any show. These young people are pulling out the stops to create wonderful performances at NMP’s Theatre in Decorah on October 23-27.
The unique ways this cast has been involved include drawing, painting, and working on costumes. The children have created artwork using crayons, markers, and colored pencils. Several of the cast’s artwork is on the show posters being displayed by many area businesses.

On Saturday, October 5 many of the cast enjoyed painting the set using their own ideas of what Alice’s world should be like. The painters enjoyed talking about what they wanted to paint, then carrying through with the idea while sometimes getting paint on themselves.

Two children, Link Dallenbach-Durbin and Ruth Kueny have been working with Lara Martensen-Burrell, Maxx Madcap, Emily Young Jonnson, Angela Kueny, Lindsey Harmon-Wood, and Shannon Dallenbuch-Durbin as part of the costume crew. They have discussed how to work with fur, create cards, and how outlandish the Mad Hatter’s hat should be.

Everyone’s hard work will be seen at their performances on October 23 at 6:30 p.m., October 24-26 at 7:00 p.m. and October 27 at 2:00 p.m. at NMP’s Theatre.

Due to very brisk ticket sales, a limited number of tickets will be sold one hour prior to each performance at the theatre, 906 S. Mill Street, Decorah.

Show sponsors include: Decorah Bank and Trust, Family Table Restaurant, Iroc Web Design Services, Pizza Ranch, RocketDog Books, Rockweiler Appliance & TV, Rick and Sheryl Scheffert, Sogo Snacks, and Singing Hammers Construction.

Mark your calendars now and start making plans to explore and shop the 22nd Annual Northeast Iowa Artists’ Studio Tour!!

Visit 30+ locations over 3-days for the behind the scenes look of 50+ artists’ processes and their newest works. You’ll also enjoy the beautiful scenery as you drive through quaint small towns and the breathtaking countryside of the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa.

Open 10am-5pm each day! October 11, 12 and 13!!!

Join the Winneshiek County 4-H Endowment at the Friends of 4-H Gala on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at the Wild Woods Event Center in Ossian.

Social hour will begin at 5:30 pm with live music provided by Steve Schroeder. Dinner will be served at 7:00 pm by our 4-H County Council members and a Dessert Auction will follow the dinner. Sharing some of their 4-H memories will be Dennis Blumhagen of Ossian and Marian Rovang Rude of Decorah.

Tickets are $50 and tables of 8 may be reserved. Call the Winneshiek County Extension office at 563-382-2949 for tickets and dinner choices. This is a wonderful evening to reconnect with friends and family and support the 4-H program. All proceeds support the Winneshiek County 4-H Endowment.

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

PIVO Brewery was awarded a gold and bronze medal at the 2019 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. Gold, silver and bronze medals were awarded on October 5 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, in 107 beer categories covering 174 different beer styles (including all subcategories), establishing the best examples of each style in the country.

PIVO Brewery was awarded a Gold Medal in the Chocolate Beer category for its Old Balltown Dark Chocolate 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.

PIVO Brewery was awarded a Bronze 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 and toasted caraway seed are the Nordic style beer flavorings that make this a truely unique beer.

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 35 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 is currently building an event center onto their brewery that will have a 350 person seating capacity. Craig and Sara Neuzil of Calmar are the owners of PIVO Brewery and Blepta Studios.