September 22, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ANKENY, Iowa – Eight young women involved within the Iowa dairy community will compete to win the title of 67th Iowa Dairy Princess Thursday, Aug. 6, at 2 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott in Ankeny. The princess and her alternate are charged with helping consumers learn more about dairy products and the farm families who tend the farms and cows that provide them.
The contestants are:
• Brooke Courtney, 18, daughter of Scott and Amy Courtney of Ridgeway, representing Winneshiek County;
• Amber Engelken, 18, daughter of Tom and Cherrie Engelken of Earlville, representing Iowa Holstein Association;
• Kaylee Gibbs, 17, daughter of Chris and Kerri Gibbs of Waterville, representing Allamakee County;
• Megan Gronau, 21, daughter of Todd and Karen Gronau of Durango, representing Dubuque County;
• Meghan Hettinga, 20, daughter of Jason and Mary Hettinga of Orange City, representing Iowa Jersey Cattle Club;
• Abby Klstermann, 18, daughter of Chris and Michelle Klostermann of Dyersville, representing Delaware County;
• Raegan Kime, 17, daughter of Dann and Annette Kime of Waucoma, representing Iowa Guersney Breeders Association;
• Megan Kueker, 18, daughter of Gary and Karol Kueker of West Union, representing Fayette County;
The winners are chosen on the basis of their knowledge and enthusiasm about dairy, personality and communication ability during judging which begins Wednesday, Aug. 5. Both the princess and alternate will receive scholarships from Midwest Dairy, which sponsors the contest and princess program on behalf of Iowa’s dairy farmers.
The outgoing 2019-20 Iowa Dairy Princess is Julie Hammerand, daughter of Jerry and Lois Hammerand, and the Alternate Princess is Faith Palmer, daughter of John and Meghan Palmer of Waukon. Their reigns will be completed at the end of the month, and the new Princess and Alternate will begin their duties Sept. 1.
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Midwest Dairy™ represents 7,000 dairy farm families and works on their behalf to build dairy demand by inspiring consumer confidence in our products and production practices. We are committed to Bringing Dairy to Life! by Giving Consumers an Excellent Dairy Experience and are funded by farmers across a 10-state region, including Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma. For more information, visit MidwestDairy.com. Follow us on Twitter and find us on Facebook at Midwest Dairy.

—
Mariah Busta
Iowa Dairy Princess Program Coordinator

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

Decorah Park and Rec 2020 Swimming Info

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

No additional fees for admission or parking will be charged.

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

Entry Deadline: July 10, 2020

Entry fees are as follows:

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

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

Generators: No auxiliary generators will be provided.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COVID-19 Precautions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plans are underway for the 38th Annual Governor’s Charity Steer Show (GCSS) to be held on August 15, 2020.

The event, which raises money for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, would typically be held at the Iowa State Fair. However, with the postponement of the 2020 fair, show organizers are actively making adjustments to plans.

“The Governor’s Charity Steer Show is a long-standing tradition and benefits a very good cause,” says Tanner Lawton, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association staff member and co-chair of this year’s GCSS. “We’ve known for the past few weeks that the show and auction probably wouldn’t be the same as it has been in years past, but our priority is making sure that we have a successful fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Iowa.”

This historic philanthropic event has raised over $3.8 million to help provide a home away from home for families of children who are being treated in nearby hospitals. Ronald McDonald Houses are located in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Sioux City. The location for this year’s show is yet to be determined, but we should have more information in the coming weeks.

Twenty-five steers from across the state will compete for the championship designation, showmanship honors, and the People’s Choice award. Each of the steers has been raised by an Iowa youth involved in the cattle industry, and celebrities will accompany the young steer owners.

Immediately following the competition, the steers will be sold at auction with proceeds going to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa. Last year’s auction raised more than $284,000.

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About the Iowa Beef Industry Council:  Producer-directed and consumer-focused, the Iowa Beef Industry Council is funded by the $1.50-per-head beef checkoff. Checkoff dollars are invested in beef promotion, consumer information, research, industry information and foreign market development, all with the purpose of strengthening beef demand. For more information visit www.iabeef.org.

About the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association:  The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association represents nearly 10,000 beef-producing families and associated companies dedicated to the future of Iowa’s beef industry. ICA’s mission is “Grow Iowa’s beef business through advocacy, leadership and education.” www.iacattlemen.org

June 2, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

June 1, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

XXX

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 1, 2020

Contact: Stephanie Fromm, 563-382-6061 or director@winneshiekdevelopment.org

RE: Winneshiek County Development and Tourism and Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce Awarded $5,000 from Decorah Bank and Trust

Winneshiek County Development and Tourism and the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce were recently awarded $5,000 from Decorah Bank and Trust. In a recent social media post, Decorah Bank and Trust noted “Winneshiek County Development and Tourism and Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce have always been incredible assets to our community. During this pandemic, many have recognized and been helped by their continued hard work to aid our community in any way possible.”

Decorah Bank and Trust has donated $5,000 to each organization, helping them with their efforts. Decorah Bank and Trust also expressed gratitude thanking the two organizations, stating the work being done is ”truly inspiring for us all to see.”

Stephanie Fromm, Executive Director of Winneshiek County Development and Tourism shared “We are always busy, but during the COVID-19 crisis, we were all putting in extra hours to help our businesses survive, while at the same time helping support community organizations and other partners. In addition to providing direct assistance to over 300 businesses, we were helping to get the Decorah and Winneshiek County Mutual Aid Network up and running, helping get funding for meal delivery to at-risk populations, and trying to keep everyone informed about the grants and programs with a new searchable database on our website. Every day is a new challenge, but we feel like the ingenuity and response from Winneshiek County community members and businesses has been phenomenal. We’re proud to serve them. Having said that, we very much appreciate the recognition and funding from Decorah Bank and Trust.”

Kristina Wiltgen, Executive Director of Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce also stated “As an organization, one of our core values is to be responsive to business needs. Over the past couple of months, we have supported area businesses through online gift card sales, distributed Chamber Dollars to hundreds of individuals and continued to share information and knowledge from area community businesses and leaders. We are very grateful for the funding and recognition from Decorah Bank and Trust.”

PRESS RELEASE-REOPENING

ISU Extension & Outreach, Winneshiek County office will reopen to the public on Monday, June 1, 2020.

We take serving Iowans seriously, and we are prioritizing the health and safety of our community and staff. We will be taking precautions to ensure the safety of staff and the public. Please stay home if you have had a fever or feel sick and contact us by phone 563-382-2949 or email us at xwinneshiek@iastate.edu.

Thanks,

Alexandria McIntyre | Winneshiek County

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach

Office Assistant

325 Washington Street, Suite B

Decorah, IA 52101

alliemc@iastate.edu

563-382-2949

www.extension.iastate.edu

Luther College community reflects on Nordic values during COVID-19 pandemic

DECORAH, Iowa – A unique project has recently wrapped up at Luther College where students and alumni were asked to reflect on how Nordic values are being utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maren Johnson, assistant professor and director of the Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies, was looking for a way to connect current students with alumni who share a passion for the Nordic region.

“Nordic Studies is thriving at Luther, with nearly 90 students in our classes, 18 of whom are majors,” Johnson said. “During this time of social isolation, I wanted to find a way to build community among current and former students.”

Nordic Studies is the in-depth study of the Nordic region (Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Iceland). The discipline examines how the literature, history, language, politics and culture inform and shape norms and values present in the region today.

Johnson invited people to identify some important Nordic values and social norms, and how they saw them being used to address the coronavirus crisis.

“Graduates from multiple decades responded. One alumnus witnesses the Nordic value of janteloven, the cultural code of humility and selflessness, in the hospital where he works. Several are discovering more fully the value of friluftsliv, or purposeful, immersive time outdoors, while being confined to the indoors has raised the importance of koselig or hygge which is embracing a ‘cozy’ way of life with a focus on contentment and wellbeing in one’s living space,” said Johnson.

As a clinical psychologist and educator, Timothy Baardseth ’00, said he is inspired by colleagues and staff at his hospital and graduate school as they embrace the egalitarian value that no person is either better or worse than anyone else.

“Their willingness to place the needs of their patients and students in front of their own is awe-inspiring,” wrote Baardseth. “I believe that the egalitarian spirit of the janteloven will ultimately be an underlying societal factor that helps us to overcome these tumultuous times.”

Trust was another common theme in the responses. In the Nordic region, there is trust among people and trust in public authorities and institutions. Equality, including gender equality, was mentioned as well by Ingrid Urberg ’84.

“The contributions of all members of society across a myriad of job sectors are necessary for a functioning and healthy community,” wrote Urberg. “This focus on equality and the practice of social solidarity has resulted in a robust and valued universal health care system which is serving the Nordic region well during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

To read all of the responses, visit https://www.luther.edu/center-nordic/coronavirus/.

The Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies honors Luther College’s legacy as the first college in the United States founded by Norwegian immigrants. Its mission is to foster connections with today’s Nordic region through innovative programs and partnerships. It is the only endowed undergraduate Nordic studies center in the United States.

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.

The Iowa Finance Authority has launched the COVID-19 Iowa Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Program, which will provide mortgage and rent assistance to eligible Iowans who are unable to meet those obligations due to COVID-19. This has become necessary since the Governor’s moratorium on foreclosures and evictions was phased out after the last proclamation dated 5/26/20.

Rental assistance will cover up to four months (this can include up to two months in arrears) beginning with April 1 rent payment, ($3,200 maximum); this includes manufactured home rent and lot rent

Mortgage payment assistance will cover up to $3,000 maximum, beginning with April 1 mortgage payment (this can include up to two months in arrears).

To be eligible, you must be a current renter or homeowner who is at risk of eviction or foreclosure due to a documented COVID-19-related loss of income on or after March 17, 2020. Your household income must not exceed 80% MFI (Median Family Income) at the time of application. You are not eligible if you are currently receiving the $600 additional CARES Act unemployment benefit.

Applications are open now and will continue until all funds have been exhausted. You can learn more and apply here: https://www.iowafinance.com/covid-19-iowa-eviction-and-foreclosure-prevention-program/

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, is preparing to reopen camping at its
parks in eastern North Dakota, Minnesota and western Wisconsin, June 1.
Campgrounds were closed to start the season due to COVID-19 concerns and a need to protect employees
and the public. While the campgrounds are reopening, visitors are encouraged to contact Corps staff at the
park you are visiting to ensure other recreation areas such as beaches, boat ramps and playground areas are
open. The status of these facilities is also available at: https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/status.cfm.
Individuals with paid camping reservations at closed campgrounds will be contacted by email about
cancellations and full refunds will automatically be processed through the recreation.gov website with no
cancellation fees. Individuals should not contact the website to request a refund as that will lead to a
cancellation fee being charged. All reservations must be made via www.recreation.gov. Self-pay vaults are
closed so cash and checks will not be accepted for camping.
Corps officials have suspended the collection of day use fees for its swimming beaches and boat ramps
until Oct. 1. The Corps is also extending the expiration date of USACE and America the Beautiful annual
passes for seven months for those who previously purchased annual passes for the year.
While visiting Corps recreation areas, visitors are encouraged to practice social distancing and other
COVID-19 safety precautions required and recommended by local, state and federal authorities, to include
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC guidance on visiting parks and recreation facilities
can be found online at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/visitors.html.
In addition to COVID-19 safety precautions, Corps staff remind everyone to be smart while you are on the
water and to always wear your life jacket.
– 30 –
NEWS RELEASE

Here is the link for The B Team, walking in honor of Brendan Numedahl: https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/6783/Groups/757391

Oneota Community Co-op Re-Opening Store to Public Beginning June 1

DECORAH, IOWA 5/27/2020

The Oneota Community Co-op in Decorah, Iowa has taken extraordinary measures to keep customers and staff safe during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Since March 11, the store was closed to customer traffic and immediately launched an online and phone ordering system with curbside service. Beginning Monday, June 1 the Co-op will open its doors to the public and continue the online and phone ordering system to accommodate the needs of customers. Physical store hours will be 10:00 am to 7:00 pm every day.

“Since day one, we have offered the safest way to purchase groceries in our area,” said General Manager David Lester, “and that will continue with the re-opening of the store” he continued. The Co-op Deli will also re-open with many new options for take-home meals and other grab and go options that were previously not available.

For nearly 11 weeks we have been offering the safest way to buy groceries in northeast Iowa during the COVID-19 outbreak. Now, with our doors about to open, we will continue to offer the safest shopping environment for our staff and customers, but we need your help. We ask that you join in the effort to keep us all safe:

• Wear a mask. We will be requiring customers to wear a mask into the store. During the first two weeks of re-opening the Seamsters Union of Winneshiek County have provided us with enough masks to give out to customers who do not have one. A suggested donation of $3-$5 for each mask will be much appreciated to keep this group making masks for our community!
• Practice good hygiene. There are multiple hand sanitizing stations throughout the store – including in our entryway. Please use them, our employees are doing the same.
• Wash your hands. A portable hand washing sink will be placed in our entryway and we expect customers to wash and/or sanitize their hands before entering the sales floor. Public restroom access will not be available in-store.
• Limit the number of those shopping. To keep a safe number of customers shopping in the store, we ask that you try to limit your shopping group to yourself or one other person.
• Plan ahead. Keep your shopping trip as efficient and brief as possible. We want to make sure you find everything you are looking for and we will have some staff on the floor to help you find everything you need.
• Socially distance yourself. Please maintain physical distance between yourself and others. We recommend a minimum of 6 feet. You will also see floor decals and other signage to help remind you.
• Elevated cleaning procedures. Our employees adhere to strict CDC and National Cooperative Grocer cleaning standards. Additionally, we have enhanced these standards to clean and sanitize high frequency touchpoints like door handles, registers, trash receptacles, keypads and self-service dispensers.
• Pay by credit/debit. Please come prepared to pay with a bank/credit card or mobile pay, if possible. Cards are more hygienic than cash payment.
• These are only a few of the changes we are making. Please check out our latest store update post on our website – oneotacoop.com – for more information!

Storefront/Curbside Pick-up Continues

On Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday we will continue to fulfill online and phone orders with storefront/curbside pick-up. The deadline for online orders is 6:00 pm the prior day (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday). Phone orders will be accepted only from 9:00 am to 10:00 am Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday with same-day fulfillment. You may also email your order to onlinestore@oneotacoop.com with the same 6:00 pm deadline as online orders.

About Oneota Community Food Co-op

Located in downtown Decorah, Oneota Community Food Co-op is a cooperatively-owned grocery store specializing in local, organic, and sustainably produced products since 1974. For over four decades, the Co-op has been the leading provider of whole foods at a reasonable cost, with an emphasis on organic, local and bulk foods. The Oneota Community Food Co-op was named the 2020 Outstanding Single Store by Progressive Grocer. Located at 312 West Water Street in Decorah, or online at www.oneotacoop.com.

Winneshiek Medical Center takes steps to address financial stability

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a significant financial disruption for Winneshiek Medical Center.  The medical center is projected to lose approximately $6 million from operations by the end of June 2020.  Without intervention, between July and the end of December 2020, the medical center will experience up to an additional $1.4 million shortfall, putting the organization’s mission at risk.

Lisa Radtke, chief administrative officer, Winneshiek Medical Center, says “Our primary value, the needs of our patients come first, is and will continue to be our guide. It is essential we are able to serve our patients now and into the next century. We cannot compromise our future.”

Winneshiek Medical Center has already done much to respond to this crisis.  They have continued their focus on reducing operating expenses by minimizing nonessential expenditures, deferring minor equipment purchases, reducing use of supplemental staff and consulting services and deferring construction and capital equipment purchases that can be stopped without compromising patient care.  Staff have taken time off without pay. Mayo Clinic Health System doctors and administrators have taken salary reductions.  The medical center has received significant funding from the CARES Act to reduce their losses and keep staff pay protected.

These actions will not be enough.  Going forward:

• Annual wage adjustments for staff, normally occurring in July, will be deferred at this time
• Temporary salary reductions will affect all salaried exempt employees, beginning July 2, 2020
• Departments will return to “staffing to essential workload” upon completion of the Paycheck Protection Program
• Temporary voluntary and involuntary furloughs, reduced hours and FTE reductions will be instituted in some areas
• Staff benefits will remain intact

Radtke says, “We believe these difficult steps will allow us to maintain the financial stability to continue our mission without making permanent workforce reductions or adjustments. We expect these decisions to be temporary, and are confident Winneshiek Medical Center will rebound from this pandemic, emerge in-tact, mission-focused, true to our values and ready to resume our path to 2030 and our ten-year vision. We very much look forward to that day.”

• Beginning on Monday, June 1^st, area communities of faith will ring their bells for one minute at 11:00 am each Monday to mark lives lost and affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

This is part of a call for a National Day of Mourning and Lament. The ongoing bell-ringing each week recognizes all lives affected by the pandemic. People are invited to stand outside at this time each week in solidarity with our community and the world.

Initiated by the church leaders in the Decorah Area Faith Coalition, this one way is to express a community symbol of sympathy for the grief at the loss of over 100,000 lives in this pandemic and the grief for the many dimensions of loss and grieving that affect almost every household in this area. The US Conference of Mayors and National Governors Association have been issuing invitations to participate.

Becky Idstrom, Communications and Marketing Manager

bidstrom@vesterheim.org  •  563-382-9681

For Immediate Release

May 28, 2020

Join Vesterheim Online to Celebrate Heritage Park Groundbreaking

DECORAH, Iowa — Join Vesterheim, the national Norwegian-American museum and heritage center, on Facebook (facebook.vesterheimmuseum) to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Heritage Park project with a live stream ceremony on Friday, June 5, at 1:00 p.m. The Heritage Park project will transform Vesterheim’s campus into an educational, interpretive, and public outdoor space in downtown Decorah. When completed, the museum’s unique collection of 12 historical buildings will be displayed within a fully accessible, landscaped park that will include gentle glades and a community amphitheater.

“Vesterheim’s Heritage Park Project is the first step in the museum’s plan to continue uniting cultures, generations, and communities in new, exciting ways,” Chris Johnson, Vesterheim’s President/CEO explained. “And how better to begin than by creating a public space where Vesterheim patrons, Decorah residents, and visitors to our town can relax, learn, and join together in a tranquil park-like setting?” Johnson added.

During Friday’s online event, museum staff Chris Johnson, Jennifer Kovarik, and Martha Griesheimer will give a brief tour of the park to view the construction progress and share some of the plans for reinterpreting the space for visitors. Johnson will launch the project using a ceremonial shovel painted by Sally Stromseth, the instructor for the museum’s popular “Rosemaling Klubb” for youth. A video of the event will be posted on YouTube later at youtube.VesterheimMuseum.

The park was designed by Damon Farber, the award-winning landscape architectural firm from Minneapolis, Minnesota, in partnership with Snøhetta, the renowned international architecture and landscape architecture firm with offices in New York City and Oslo. Heritage Park is part of an overall Master Site Plan created for Vesterheim by Snøhetta.

The primary contractor for the project is 2nd Nature Landscaping, Bloomington, Minnesota, and other contractors include Skyline Construction, Inc., Wicks Construction, Perry Novak Electric, and Stevenson Tree Care, all of Decorah.

This project has been made possible by a grant from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies, with additional support from the Paul D. Pratt & Marguerite Olson Pratt Fund of InFaith Community Foundation and from Kate Nelson Rattenborg. The landscape will incorporate many environmentally sensitive elements, thanks to a grant from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Water Quality Initiative (WQI) Urban Conservation Project. Vesterheim has also received funding from Winneshiek County Community Foundation for interpretive signs.

Work on Heritage Park will continue through this summer and be completed in the fall. Vesterheim is currently closed through June 30 as a response to COVID-19. Further schedule adjustments due to either the Heritage Park work or COVID-19 will be announced when available.

Through 33,000 objects and 12 historic buildings, Vesterheim, the national Norwegian-American museum and heritage center in Decorah, Iowa, shares the most comprehensive collection of Norwegian-American artifacts in the world. This treasure is also a center for folk-art education, offering a wide variety of classes in authentic Norwegian folk art every year. For more information on the museum’s exhibitions, classes, events, membership opportunities, and ways to donate, check Vesterheim’s website at vesterheim.org, call (563) 382-9681, or write to Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, 502 W. Water St., P.O. Box 379, Decorah, IA, 52101-0379.

-30-

Luther College receives $100,000 grant from The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation

The grant will fund educational opportunities for high-need students in honor of Arne Sorenson

DECORAH, Iowa – The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation awarded a grant of $100,000 to Luther College in honor of Marriott International CEO and Luther alumnus, Arne Sorenson ’80, who recently completed his third term and final year of service on the Luther College Board of Regents. During Sorenson’s final board meeting on May 8, news of this generous grant to Luther was shared with the full board.

“I was grateful to be asked to serve on Luther’s Board of Regents for the last 12 years. It is a special place to me,” said Arne Sorenson. “As my service as a Regent comes to an end, I was thrilled to hear about the Marriott Family Foundation’s grant. It will enable Luther to deepen the impact it has on its students, preparing many more for successful careers of meaning and impact.”

The $100,000 grant will be used to establish a Marriott Success Award Fund for students who are recipients of the Morris A. Sorenson Family Scholarship. Established by Arne’s father, Morris Sorenson, a distinguished Luther graduate, and generously endowed by Arne and his wife, Ruth, this scholarship supports some of Luther’s most high-need students throughout their four years of college.

“I am truly grateful for the Marriott Family Foundation’s generosity in honoring Arne Sorenson as he concludes his service to the Luther College Board of Regents, and for the wisdom and leadership Arne has offered to the Board over the years,” said President Jenifer K. Ward. “Both Marriott and Luther have benefited from his clear-eyed and passionate dedication to hospitality, in all senses of the word, and it is so very fitting that Luther students will continue to be welcomed to Luther with the assistance that these awards will provide.

This grant will help to ensure recipients of the Morris A. Sorenson Family Scholarship have the necessary financial resources to fully engage with experiential learning (e.g., internship, service learning trip, collaborative research fellowship) and other high-impact experiences as part of their liberal arts education. It will also be used to fund textbooks, lab supplies or other necessities that may be out of reach for high-need students.

“Our Foundation shares a passion for creating opportunities for those who may not have the means to achieve their educational goals,” said J.W. Marriott, Jr. trustee of The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation. “We were delighted to honor Arne with this special grant to assist students at his beloved alma mater. Creating Marriott Success Awards at Luther College is a meaningful way of connecting our family’s philanthropy to a student scholarship created by his family’s philanthropy.”

The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation is committed to sustaining vibrant, healthy communities where all people have the opportunities and means to achieve their dreams and make a positive difference in the world. Through its grants, the Foundation supports effective organizations that are creating significant, lasting and transformational change either through smart and innovative responses to today’s needs or through systematic solutions that address the root causes of economic and societal challenges.

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.

Gundersen updates Clinic, Surgery, Emergency Services visitor guidelines

Patients coming to Gundersen for emergency or urgent care and those who have an appointment will soon be able to bring one person with them.

Effective Monday, June 1, one person, 16 years old or older, may accompany a patient who has an appointment in a Gundersen Clinic, Surgery, Outpatient Surgery Center or Emergency Services location.

Pediatric patients at Gundersen clinic locations will continue to be allowed one person with them. And, as it was updated May 19, adult patients in Gundersen hospitals are allowed one visitor over the age of 18 per 24-hour period.

All patients and visitors will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms when they arrive and must continue to wear a face covering whenever they are in a Gundersen facility.

Visitors who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the last 14 days or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms will not be permitted to enter any Gundersen facility.

Patients and visitors should not congregate in public areas within Gundersen and are asked to not bring any food or drinks into Gundersen facilities. They may purchase food or beverages in designated Gundersen food establishments.

A reminder that these guidelines are temporary. Gundersen continuously evaluates visitor guidelines and may update them as the COVID-19 response continues to evolve locally, regionally, and nationally.

Visit gundersenhealth.org/covid19 to read more details about our visitor guidelines and for information on face coverings, social distancing, hand hygiene and much more to help us continue to keep our communities healthy and safe.

FEMA Extends Grace Period for Flood Insurance Renewal Premiums

Release date:

March 29, 2020

Release Number:

HQ-20-040

WASHINGTON – FEMA continues to take proactive steps to address the COVID-19 pandemic.  To help serve its National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) customers who may be experiencing financial hardships, the agency is extending the grace period to renew flood insurance policies from 30 to 120 days. This extension applies to NFIP flood insurance policies with an expiration date between February 13-June 15, 2020.

To avoid a lapse in coverage, there is typically a 30-day grace period to renew policies. However, due to the widespread economic disruption arising from this pandemic, FEMA recognizes that flood insurance policyholders may not meet the standard policy renewal deadline.

“FEMA understands the sense of urgency related to financial hardships and wants to be proactive,” said David Maurstad, deputy associate administrator of FEMA’s Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, who oversees the NFIP. “We want to make sure that policyholders don’t have to worry that their policy will lapse during the spring flood season or into the start of hurricane season.  We hope this extension will give policyholders some peace of mind and allow them extra time to renew their policies to ensure they are covered should a flood loss occur.”

For more information about renewing flood insurance policies or resolving an underpayment, policyholders can contact their insurance carriers or call the National Flood Insurance Program Call Center at 1-877-336-2627.

Corey P Snitker

Emergency Management Coordinator

Allamakee County Iowa

877 HWY 9

Waukon, IA 52172

Cell: 563-568-1911

Office: 563-568-4233

csnitker@co.allamakee.ia.us

The Decorah Public Library will begin offering curbside materials pickup on Monday June 1.

Library books, books on CD, and DVDs will be available for curbside pickup from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday. Beginning June 8, interlibrary loan services will also resume, so items not owned by Decorah Public Library may be borrowed from other libraries across the state.

Anyone wishing to select items for curbside pickup may do so by using the library’s online catalog (see Facebook or the library website for step-by-step instructions) or by calling the library at 382-3717. If requested, Library staff will be happy to share reading recommendations. Brand new video recommendations for children’s and young adult materials are available on Facebook as well. Library phone lines are open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and voicemail is available after hours. Ten items may be reserved at once, and ten items checked out per pickup date.

Once reserved items become available, Library staff will contact individuals to schedule a pickup date. Items will be bagged and labeled on tables near the loading dock on the south side of the building (off Winnebago St.). Parking is available, or cars may pull in and drive downhill through the lower parking lot to exit. Rain location will be in the covered parking area located underneath the library. Checkouts are for 3 weeks, with one renewal available. No late fines will accrue during this time. Both exterior library book drops are now open for returns.

Returned materials are quarantined for a minimum of 72 hours before being reintegrated with the library collection.

Call the library at 563-382-3717 for more information.

River-N-Ridge Outdoors has been announced as a semi-finalist in Main Street Iowa’s Open 4 Business competition. The business is one of twelve businesses to advance to the next round. Their next step is an online interview with the judging panel. If they advance again, they will receive $8,000 as a finalist, with the chance to win a further $20,000.

River-N-Ridge Outdoors previously won the Lansing contest, Open 4 Business: Fish Tank Edition, which awarded $2,000 (provided jointly by Kerndt Bothers Savings Bank, Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, Lansing Fitness Center, and Main Street Lansing).

River-N-Ridge Outdoors, owned by Mark and Amy Peterson, is a full service outdoor store in business for 4 years, providing a variety of products and services related to hunting, fishing, and boating. A small sampling of their products and services include firearms, ammunition, live bait, tackle, and gun repair. The wide variety of outdoor activities in the Lansing area allow them to capture the market of outdoor enthusiasts, both locals and visitors. Their location along the river allows for easy access from the street and from a dock, and their firearm products and services are unique to the business district.

River-N-Ridge plans to use any awarded funds to expand their services to include archery, clothing, and more boating supplies, as well as helping them reach the goal of opening a larger retail space in Lansing. They also hope to increase advertising, including the use of television. They want to draw new people into Lansing to help not only their business but all the businesses in the community.

Open 4 Business is an annual competition through Main Street Iowa that allows businesses from across Iowa to compete for the chance to win up to $28,000 in grant funds to be used for business expansion efforts. The competition is only open to designated Main Street communities, and each Main Street community can only send one business to represent them in the statewide competition. A 25% cash match is required in order to receive the state funds.

For more information about the Open 4 Business competition, reach out to Andy Kelleher, Executive Director of Main Street Lansing, at 563-538-9229 or director@lansingmatters.com

—

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

State of Iowa announces new Test Iowa locations as testing criteria expands

Fri, 05/22/2020 – 12:00

Schedule can be found on coronavirus.iowa.gov. 

Today, the Office of Governor Kim Reynolds announced new Test Iowa locations will open next week in Marshalltown, Sioux Center, and Council Bluffs.

A schedule of sites, locations and times can be found below or on coronavirus.iowa.gov.

Test Iowa is a statewide initiative to expand COVID-19 testing. Testing criteria now allows any Iowan to be tested, regardless of symptoms or potential exposure to the virus. To be tested, Iowans must first complete an assessment at www.testiowa.com and schedule an appointment at a test site.

Test Iowa’s mobile testing model makes it possible to quickly operationalize a temporary test site in a community where virus activity is increasing or access to testing is limited. Testing is rapidly scaled up to identify positive cases, conduct contact tracing, and determine scope of the virus in the community. Over time when test volume decreases, sites are moved to other communities where there is a need.

The Test Iowa site currently in Sioux City will close when testing concludes at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 22. The site opened on May 4. Testing remains in Sioux City through local health care providers as well as the new Test Iowa Site in Sioux Center.

Test Iowa Sites/Schedule

Call Test Iowa with questions about testing: 515-575-2131 or 844-844-1561 (toll free)
Lines are open 8am – 8pm 7 days a week (except Holidays)

**** Please Note, There are two Half-Staff Events ****

1. President Trump orders flags to fly at half-staff to honor CoronaVirus victims

“I will be lowering the flags on all Federal Buildings and National Monuments to half-staff over the next three days in memory of the Americans we have lost to the CoronaVirus,” the President tweeted the evening of Thursday, May 22nd

^{*** Flags should be at Half-Staff Immediately for the Next Three Days per the President’s Tweet.}    

2. Memorial Day United States Flag Display

Memorial Day, which is observed on the last Monday of May, commemorates the men and women who died while in the military service.  In observance of Memorial Day, fly the United States flag at half staff from sunrise until NOON , and then raise it to full height from noon to sundown.

United States Flag Code

Section 7.M

The flag, when flown at half-staff, should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then slowly lowered to the half-staff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day. On Memorial Day the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only, then raised to the top of the staff.
Click here to see the entire US Flag Code….

*** Flags should be at Half-Staff From Sunrise Until Noon on Monday, May 25th.

Effigy Mounds National Monument Trails Re-open Friday, May 22, 2020

[Harpers Ferry, IA] Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and state and local public health authorities, Effigy Mounds National Monument is increasing recreational access, re-opening the park’s hiking trails beginning at 6:00am Friday, May 22, 2020. The National Park Service is working with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to gradually increase access on a park-by-park basis.

With public health in mind, the Effigy Mounds National Monument Visitor Center and other facilities will remain closed. Visitors are advised to come to the monument self-contained with enough water and food for safe hiking. Social distancing is highly recommended, and the public should be aware that on the North Unit trail system as well as the Yellow River boardwalks it is not always possible to maintain the recommended 6’ of social distancing, particularly when groups are moving in opposite directions along narrow, steep trail segments. Visitors are advised to seek out hiking times when visitation is low and avoid hiking during the busy afternoon hours of 1:00pm – 3:00pm if possible. Trails at Effigy Mounds National Monument are open daily from dawn to dusk.

Effigy Mounds National Monument managers are working with local, regional, and national leadership to monitor the situation and will provide updates on the park website at www.nps.gov/efmo and Facebook page whenever there are changes to the status of Effigy Mounds National Monument trails and Visitor Center operations.

The Calmar American Legion will be doing its cemetery salutes as usual on Monday May 25th, 2020 morning.  The school program is cancelled.

May 21, 2020

CONTACT:  Erin Berns at Veterans Memorial Hospital  568-3411

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 Limited Visitors Again Allowed In Veterans Memorial Hospital-Some Elective Procedures Also Now Available

Veterans Memorial Hospital is carefully beginning to loosen some hospital visitor and elective procedure restrictions.

Effective immediately, hospital visitor guidelines have been changed to the following:

• Adult patients will be permitted one visitor over the age of 18 per 24-hour period. The one identified visitor per 24-hour period must be registered daily.
• The visitor can do this by entering through the main entrance of the hospital, where they will be screened prior to entering and escorted to the patient room by a staff member.
• OB will maintain the current restriction of one support person for the entire stay.
• Visitors are asked to enter the building between 10am-2pm and asked to leave no later than 4 pm.
• Visitors are always required to cover their nose and mouth with a face covering. This is without exception. Visitors who cannot tolerate a personal face covering will not be allowed to visit.
• Visitors must respect social distancing and maintain at least six feet away from others even when wearing a face covering.
• Primary support persons, visitors and healthcare decision makers who are currently experiencing or experienced any COVID-19 symptoms within the last 14 days, such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, are not permitted.
• No visitors are permitted who have had a diagnosis of COVID-19 in the last 14 days, and visitors are not allowed to visit patients being treated for COVID-19 (except in end-of-life cases).
• Approved visitor must remain in the patient’s room and be escorted by staff out of the building when ready to leave.

During this COVID-19 pandemic, the hospital has had to limit surgeries and outpatient procedures, but is now beginning to offer a few elective surgical procedures, such as colonoscopies and mammograms.

Individuals who are interested in inquiring about having one of these preventative procedures should call their provider.  The provider can then share the order for the procedure with Veterans Memorial Hospital.  Then the appointment and instructions will be shared.

The hospital will be taking the highest precautions with each and every patient, leaving appropriate time between procedures and using all personal protective equipment and protocols.

Veterans Memorial Hospital Community and Home Care has also resumed immunizations on an appointment-only basis.  During COVID-19, the walk-in immunization clinics will remain on hold, but for those that want to call ahead and make an appointment, they can do so by calling 563-568-5660.   When the appointment is made, instructions will be given for the private location the immunizations will be administered.

Again, the hospital stresses that anyone coming into the hospital wear a face mask.  Also anyone not feeling well is asked to please call the hospital to reschedule their elective procedure.

For more information, please contact Veterans Memorial Hospital at 568-3411.

###

May 19, 2020

CONTACT:  Erin Berns at Veterans Memorial Hospital  568-3411

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hospital Laboratory Takes Measures When Re-Opening Waiting Room to Ensure Safety of Those Needing Regular Testing

The Veterans Memorial Hospital strives to provide the safest health care experience with compassion for all patients.  During COVID-19, the hospital has gone to even greater measures to ensure a safe environment for all patients, with the following requirements:

• Daily health screenings of employees, patients and visitors.
• Face masks required for all employees, patients and visitors.
• Physical distancing required in waiting rooms.
• Visitation limited to only essential visitors.
• Pre-procedure COVID –19 testing required prior to having a procedure at Veterans Memorial Hospital.
• More time scheduled between patients for proper, effective and thorough sanitizing.

The hospital’s Laboratory does see many repeat patients on a regular basis.  Since the onset of COVID-19, many of those patients have stayed in their cars while Laboratory personnel have come outside to draw their blood.  The lab patients are now given a choice to enter the main entrance as usual and wait in the main lobby waiting room until Lab escorts them to the lab drawing room.  Lab patients can also wait in their car until the lab drawing room is available.  If they still choose to wait in their vehicles, they must call the Lab at 563-568-5594 when they arrive to the hospital.  The Lab staff will meet them at the door and escort them inside the building, first to the screener and then directly to the Lab waiting room.

All appointments for Laboratory should be pre-scheduled.  Please call the Lab at 563-568-5594 before the next visit to Veterans Memorial Hospital to schedule an appointment.

For questions or concerns, please call Beth Fitzpatrick, Lab Supervisor at 563-568-5594.

###

Corps welcomes 101 days of summer with a water safety message

1. PAUL, Minn. –The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, is welcoming the 101 days of summer with a reminder for everyone to play it safe while on the water and to always wear a life jacket.

The 101 days of summer starts with Memorial Day Weekend and goes through Labor Day. Corps staff are reminding everyone to understand the value of wearing a life jacket. According to the National Safety Council, drowning caused 3,709 deaths in 2017. With the start of the summer recreation season upon us, let’s do our part to reduce these preventable deaths.

“As we wrap up National Safe Boating Week and look toward the summer, I want everyone to think about the importance of being smart while on the water,” said Randy Urich, St. Paul District recreation and natural resources chief. “With everything going on right now, it’s easy to get distracted, but the key is to remember that life jackets save lives. Your friends and family are counting on you coming home after being on the water so please play it safe and wear your life jacket.”

Before casting off for a day on the water, Corps staff recommend everyone should always wearing a life jacket, avoid consuming too much alcohol, let a friend or family member know where you are going and how long you plan to be gone, keep an eye on the weather and take a boating safety course.

In addition to remembering to being smart on the water, boaters should also practice good social distancing to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19.

For more information on our water safety program, please visit https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/Water-Safety/  or https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/National-Water-Safety_Program/

May 19, 2020

CONTACT:  Erin Berns at Veterans Memorial Hospital  568-3411

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hospital Laboratory Takes Measures When Re-Opening Waiting Room to Ensure Safety of Those Needing Regular Testing

The Veterans Memorial Hospital strives to provide the safest health care experience with compassion for all patients.  During COVID-19, the hospital has gone to even greater measures to ensure a safe environment for all patients, with the following requirements:

• Daily health screenings of employees, patients and visitors.
• Face masks required for all employees, patients and visitors.
• Physical distancing required in waiting rooms.
• Visitation limited to only essential visitors.
• Pre-procedure COVID –19 testing required prior to having a procedure at Veterans Memorial Hospital.
• More time scheduled between patients for proper, effective and thorough sanitizing.

The hospital’s Laboratory does see many repeat patients on a regular basis.  Since the onset of COVID-19, many of those patients have stayed in their cars while Laboratory personnel have come outside to draw their blood.  The Lab patients are now given the choice to enter the Lab waiting room to wait for their blood draw, or continue to wait in their car until the Lab waiting room is open.  If they still choose to wait in their vehicles, they must call the Lab at 563-568-5594 when they arrive to the hospital.  The Lab staff will meet them at the door and escort them inside the building, first to the screener and then directly to the Lab waiting room.

All appointments for Laboratory should be pre-scheduled.  Please call the Lab at 563-568-5594 before the next visit to Veterans Memorial Hospital to schedule an appointment.

For questions or concerns, please call Beth Fitzpatrick, Lab Supervisor at 563-568-5594.

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May 19, 2020

CONTACT:  Erin Berns at Veterans Memorial Hospital  568-3411

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hospital Requests More Masks Needed in Hospital and Community

Veterans Memorial Hospital continues to be appreciative of the outpouring of community support and interest in making and donating face masks for patients and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Hospital is encouraging those that have been sewing for the hospital to please continue to do so.  In fact, with the reopening of some elective procedures, the hospital is requesting more donations of masks, if possible.

The hospital staff remains concerned and committed to the community and encourages face mask use by everyone, especially the elderly and immune-compromised, to help them stay safe when they have to leave their homes.

For this reason, the hospital is also still encouraging face masks to be donated to the area communities.  The Waukon Economic Development, Lansing City Clerk Office, Postville City Clerk Office and Monona Chamber of Commerce are all accepting homemade masks and supplying them to the grocery stores in their communities.  These masks are then being handed out to each qualifying customer to have and wear to enter the public places they need to go.

The masks are reusable and the shopper should keep and launder the mask for reuse on each shopping visit.  With the limited supply, it is asked that those receiving the masks be sure to keep the same one for reuse and not take a new one each time they enter a store.

Masks can be dropped off at the following locations:

• Waukon Chamber of Commerce/Economic Development Office (place in tote at front door between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. M-F)
• Lansing City Office (place in tote at front door between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. M-F)
• Postville City Office (Place in tote in front of police station door anytime)
• Monona Chamber of Commerce (place in drop off slot in front door anytime)

Please put any homemade masks in a bag and leave at one of these locations.  Masks will then be distributed as needed to the stores.

For more information, please call Erin Berns, Public Relations, at Veterans Memorial Hospital at 563-568-3411.

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CAPTION:  Veterans Memorial Hospital continues to be appreciative of the outpouring of community support in making and donating masks for patients and staff during this pandemic.  With the reopening of some elective procedures, the hospital is requesting more donations of masks, if possible.  Pictured is some hospital staff members wearing some of handmade masks that a have been sewn and donated to the hospital by many talented individuals in the community.  These masks are very effective in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Mask donations are also being accepted at these city locations of Waukon Economic Development, Lansing City Clerk Office, Postville City Clerk Office and Monona Chamber of Commerce and will be given to the elderly and immune-compromised to use every time they must leave home.

May 19, 2020

CONTACT:  Erin Berns at 568-3411

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Need for Blood Does Not Stop During COVID-19

The local blood drives continue to be held during COVID-19 since the need for blood is in more demand than ever.  Life Serve team members only report to work if they are healthy and only healthy donors are eligible to give blood.   Blood drives are essential medical services and not considered mass gatherings. The number of donors is limited to ensure donor separation and staff has strict cleaning and disinfection schedules. Other measures are also in place to ensure the safety of the blood supply so these lifesaving donations can continue during COVID-19.

The next blood drive will be held on Monday, June 1, from Noon to 5 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in south Waukon.

Donating blood is safe, simple and it saves lives.  Blood donors have a unique opportunity to contribute to their community by making a life-saving blood donation.  Everyone who registers to donate blood goes through four simple steps during the donation process:  registration, donor history and mini-physical, blood donation and snacks.

New blood donors who are not familiar with the blood donation process are encouraged to ask questions before, during and after their blood donation.  Below are a few tips for ensuring a successful donation:

• Get a good night’s sleep before your blood donation.
• Eat a good meal before donating blood. Do not donate on an empty stomach.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Bring a photo ID or Blood Donor ID Card to your appointment.
• If you are 16 or 17 years old and you’ve never donated blood with LifeServe Blood Center, be sure to get a signed Parental/Guardian Permission Form.

LifeServe Blood Center is one of the 15^th largest blood centers in the country, and provides blood and blood products to more than 90 hospitals located across Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota.  This includes Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon.  LifeServe is committed to saving lives by providing premier service to volunteer blood donors and access to a safe, quality blood supply for hospitals and patients.

For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate blood at the next Waukon blood drive on Monday, June 1, from Noon to 5:00 p.m., please call 800-287-4903.

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Gundersen eases hospital visitor guidelines

As Gundersen Health System continues its safe, careful approach to resuming in-person procedures and appointments, new Hospital visitor guidelines reflect these changes. (Guidelines may differ for select Gundersen Critical Access Hospital locations.)

Gundersen Hospital Visitor Guidelines

• Adult patients will be allowed one (1) visitor over the age of 18 per 24-hour period.
• Nursery, Pediatric and Pediatric/Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (PNICU) patients may have one (1) support person, not to exceed two different people in 24 hours.
• Exceptions are available for end-of-life care, interpreter/communication needs and Labor and Delivery.

All Gundersen Locations

Gundersen continues to have multiple touchpoints to ensure the health and safety of patients, visitors, and staff. These policies continue to be in line with other state and national guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Visit our COVID-19 page for more information.

• Patients, support people and visitors must bring and wear a cloth face covering. These are needed for everyone, including Gundersen staff.
• Everyone entering a Gundersen facility will be asked if they are experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 and have their temperature taken. (Symptoms include temperature of 100.0 F, new cough, shortness of breath or unexplained body aches.)
• All patients and visitors should allow at least six feet between themselves and other patients and visitors, even when wearing a face covering.
• No visitors are allowed who have had a diagnosis of COVID-19 in the last 14 days, and visitors are not allowed to visit patients being treated for COVID-19.
• Primary support people, visitors and healthcare decision makers who are currently experiencing or experienced any COVID-19 symptoms within the last 14 days, such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, are not permitted.

Entrances to Gundersen locations will continue to be limited to ensure appropriate patient and visitor screening.

Visitor guidelines regarding Gundersen Clinics, Emergency Services, Surgery and Outpatient Surgery Center are also being reviewed. Any changes will be shared once they are finalized.

Gundersen continuously evaluates visitor guidelines and may update them as the COVID-19 response continues to evolve locally, regionally, and nationally.

Spring Grove American Legion Post #249 announces the schedule for the Memorial Day observance on Mon., May 25.

At 9:45 a.m., the Legion color guard will leave from in front of the school and march to Viking Memorial Park.

At the park, there will be patriotic music, reading of the Honor Roll, decorating the crosses with wreaths, gun salute, and taps.

For immediate release…

Voters are reminded that Friday May 22^nd is the last day to request an absentee ballot in the mail.  Voters are encouraged to use this option for the 2020 Primary to help minimize person to person contact.

In-person absentee voting will still be available in the County Auditor’s Office through Monday June 1^st.  Weekday hours are 8:00 – 4:00.  The Auditor’s Office will also be open Saturday May 30^th from 7:00 – 3:00 for early voting.

Voting on Election Day, June 2^nd, will be from 7:00am – 9:00pm.  There will be a reduced number of polling sites:

Voters that normally vote in Ossian or Calmar will be voting at the Calmar Lutheran Church.

Voters that normally vote in Ridgeway or Fort Atkinson will be voting at the Ridgeway Community Center.

All other voters will be voting at the Courthouse.

Voters using in-person voting options should practice appropriate social distancing when doing so.  For the safety of other voters and poll workers, please do not crowd the polling location and also consider bringing your own blue or black pen to use to mark your ballot.

Sample ballots, polling information, election forms, and other election information is available at www.winneshiekcounty.org. Questions can be directed to auditor@co.winneshiek.ia.us or (563) 382-5085.

Thank you,

Ben Steines

Winneshiek County Auditor

The SBA has issued guidance on calculating the forgiveness of PPP loans. The Loan Forgiveness Application includes several measures to reduce compliance burdens and simplify the process for borrowers. The biggest change is the addition of a new exemption from the loan forgiveness reduction for borrowers who have made a good-faith, written offer to rehire workers that was declined. Previously, your eligibility for PPP loan forgiveness was dependent on maintaining your pre-COVID-19 payroll, with a business losing a percentage of loan forgiveness for each employee not rehired. Now, as long as you attempt to rehire your employees by June 30, you will not suffer a loan forgiveness reduction. This exemption also applies to employees who were fired for cause, left their jobs voluntarily, or voluntarily requested a reduction in hours. (NOTE: you still have to spend the funds on eligible expenses in order to receive forgiveness; all excess funds must be repaid).

If you have a PPP loan or are looking into one (there’s still $120 Billion allocated for the program), you will need to apply for forgiveness at the conclusion of your 8-week forgiveness period, which begins once funds are disbursed to you. Speak to your lender for more details. You can view the PPP Loan Forgiveness Application here: https://content.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2020-05/3245-0407%20SBA%20Form%203508%20PPP%20Forgiveness%20Application.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Also, as a reminder, the SBA is offering debt relief for current and new 7(a) and 504 loan borrowers. The SBA will automatically make payments to the lender on behalf of the borrower for 6 months, including principal, interest, and any associated fees. New loans made through September 27, 2020 will be provided the same debt relief benefits. If you have been considering starting a business or growing your business by using an SBA loan, now is a good time to explore that option since the SBA will cover 6 months of your payments. You can learn more about this here: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/sba-debt-relief?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery