updated 03/25/2013

Looking back to January 1980 -Services were held at St. Mary’s Hanover for Gladys QUILLIN, 74. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, hand-dated 1980 New Albin News Thirty-six Republicans attended their caucus meeting at the Town House on Monday night. In the secret straw vote taken, Ronald Reagan was the winner with 25 votes, followed by Bush with 4, Baker, 3, Connally, 2, and Crane, 1, and 1 undecided vote. Floyd Pottratz was elected chairman and Jim Hosch, vice chairman. Delegates to the county caucus on March 1 are Shirley Bulman, Phyllis Breeser, Barry Fruechte, Ed Gibbs and Raymond Sires. Alternates are Leonard Heiderscheit, Earl Riser, Floyd Pottratz, Jim Hosch and Dawn Bulman. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, March 1980 -Nineteen people from New Albin attended the Republican Campaign dinner that was held at the “Drawing Board” at Waukon on Saturday night in honor of Congressman Charles Grassley. Those attending were: Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Sires, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bulman, Mr. Cleon Sires, Margaretta Mendenhall, Mr. and Mrs. Joel Sires, Floyd Pottratz, Albert and Barry Fruechte, Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Colsch, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Hosch, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Whalen and Mr. and Mrs. Carl Vonderohe. Chairmen of the Republican Party for Iowa Township are Raymond Sires and Robert Bulman. -Mrs. Forrest Sires returned home from St. Francis Medical Center on Sunday, where she had undergone foot surgery on Thursday. -The unexpected snowfall on Sunday morning caused some slippery conditions and as a result a couple of New Albin residents fell and received some painful injuries. Mrs. Mae Crowley, on her way home from church services, fell and received a painful knee injury and Mrs. Cleon Sires, in going to her aid, fell and broke her wrist. Both are recovering at their homes. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Looking back to February & March 1980 -Services were held for Art O’BRIEN, 81, at St. Patrick’s. -Rites were held for Ray GAVLE, 61 at Big Canoe Lutheran Church. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Looking back to April & May 1980 -Rites were held in Waukon for Thomas BYRNES, 65.  -Services were held at Lycurgus for John COLINS, 59. -Rites were held at St. Patrick’s for a well-known Waukon man, Ray KIBBY, 80 ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Allamakee Journal, May 1980 -EACS friends of Sylvia Hegy met in the lunch room Wednesday, May 14, to honor her upon her retirement after 21 years in this school system. She was presented with a gift and Gary Thomas treated her to an original poem, Ode to Sylvia. Former teachers from EACS who had taught with Sylvia and are not retired joined her many school friends and enjoyed visiting with her while coffee, punch, cake and ice cream were served. Her friends expressed their appreciation of her service to the school and community and wished her much happiness in her retirement. -A surprise party was given for Sylvia Hegy after choir on Thursday, May 22, at the home of Dodie and Ralph Bartels. Sylvia has been the choir director for many years at the former Presbyterian Church and now at the United Methodist Church. A beautiful plaque was given to her from the choir members and organists. The engraving on the plaque was, “Given to Sylvia for her many years of excellent service to God through music.” A delicious potluck lunch was served and everyone enjoyed visiting afterwards. Those present were: Sylvia and Laurel Hegy, Ruth and Lee Feuerhelm, Betty Gramlich, Mary Kious, Barbara Leppert, Jean Ann Weymiller, Rev. John Hall and Dodie and Ralph Bartels. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, July 2, 1980 -Rev. Thomas E. Mattson has succeeded the late Rev. John Hall as pastor of the Lansing and New Albin United Methodist churches. -Friends of Grant Gordon will be pleased to learn that he left recently by plane from Minneapolis for Norway, where he is spending about four weeks visiting with relatives there. -Ed Schultz celebrated his 90th birthday on Friday, June 20, at his home on Main St. Relatives and friends dropped by to wish him well and enjoy some cake. -The extreme hot, humid weather on Thursday, June 26, resulted in a record demand for electricity by Interstate Power Company's customers according to Fred Lyman, Dist. Mgr. The hot weather had a build-up effect over the past three or four days and caused the demand for electricity by IPC customers to reach an all-time preliminary high of 747,000 kilowatts. This compares to a 1979 peak demand of 716,000. -Mr. and Mrs. Carl Vonderohe and Mrs. Marie Vonderohe went to Villa Park, IL on Tuesday and visited his brother and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Vonderohe. -Contributed by Errin Wilker

Looking back to September 1980 -Rites were held for Wille VINE, 73, at the Decorah Lutheran Church. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Looking back to November & December 1980 -Services were held at Mercy Manor in Aurora for Sister Mary Jude, 74.  She was the daughter of Mike and Ella Burke. -Lansing relatives were notified of the death of Thomas KEEFE, 57, after a long illness at Baltimore. -A former Waukon resident, William GAVIN, 44, died. -Rites were held at St. Patrick’s for Grace QUILLIN, 92. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, February 1981 New Albin News - Joe Crowley was the honored guest at a birthday party held at his home Mon., Feb. 23. A pot luck dinner was served at 6:30. Those who attended were Miss Rosanne Sweeney, Miss Rosemary Knopf, Miss Leona Aschom, Mrs. Sfa Lankford, Mrs. Darlene Yeoman, Mr. and Mrs. Ted Strong, Mrs. Myrta Protsman and Mrs. Magdalene Glynn, all of Lansing. Also attending were Mrs. Georgia Schneider, Dallas, Ia, Mrs. Ferne Marshall, Ferryville, WI, Mrs. Helen Welper and Mrs. Susan Sommermeyer, Eric and Jon, New Albin. After an enjoyable evening Joe was presented with a gift of money. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, July 1981 - Pete Hartley, who owns the New Albin IGA Store and who has been associated with that business for the past 35 years, announced plans to retire soon and expects to sell the food store when he finds a qualified buyer. - Robert Love closed his medical practice here. - Mary Meehan-Strub was promoted to Assoc. Prof. in Dept. of Family Development in Crawford county, Wis. - Ted Benson’s pitching lifted Kee High to a 1-0 win over Eldora-Providence in substate play. - Nita Heffern of Harpers Ferry has the grand champion beef, an Angus weighing 1,120 pounds. - Rites were held for Herman Kerndt, 89, and Joseph Crowley, 78. - Rites were held for Mrs. Mary Lechtenberg, 90. - Waukon’s hospital received a bequest of $350,000 from the estate of Harlan and Gladys Magnusson. - A rabid horse bit Mrs. Boyd Jeglum and daughter Thea. All the Jeglums are taking anti-rabies shots. - Elnora J. Robey died after a long battle with cancer. - Marvin Hyde was named EACS superintendent. - Ed. J. Meyer of New Albin completed a long trip to Alaska at age 89. - A severe windstorm whiped Lansing, with trees lying across many streets. The Charlie Hecht home is in picturesque and leafy embrace of a walnut tree. - Rites were held for Rev. Ray Bohrer, Chris Teff and Selmer Faegre. - Thornton Manor reports bequests totaling $9,800 from estates of Irma Gilbertson Bartholomew, Mac Dunlevy and Ruby Fitschen. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, August 5, 1981 WAUKON NEWS - By Mrs. Lloyd Swenson -Mr. and Mrs. Barthell Bakkum were Sunday afternoon guests at the Helen Stadsvold home. -Mr. and Mrs. Clair Trouten and Mrs. Ella Johnson of Harmony, Minn., Mrs. Isabel Larson, Mrs. Mabel Grangaard, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson of Waterville, Adolph and Ruth Larson of Waukon were dinner guests on July 27 at the home of Mrs. Helen Stadsvold. -Dinner guests at the Lloyd Swenson home Sunday were Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Swenson, Jeff and Jamie, of Houston, Texas, and Mr. and Mrs. Milo Timmerman, Julie and Kari of Monona. They all enjoyed the Threshing Day parade in the afternoon. Hubert Swenson came by plane Friday evening from Houston,Texas and joined his wife and boys at the Henry Bakken home in Decorah. On Monday they drove to La Crosse on business for the Keystone Valve Co. and also to Austin, Minnesota. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Waukon newspaper clipping, August 1981 -Gladys Sires celebrated her birthday Tuesday, Aug. 18 in her home in Waukon with the help of several friends: Mrs. Elmer Middendorf of Caledonia, MN, Mrs. Mae Crowley of New Albin, Mrs. Pondo May of Clayton, Mrs. Dervin Rocksvold of Prairie du Chien, Mrs. William Sires and son Billie of Spring Grove, MN, Mrs. Danny Marsden and family of Mabel, MN, Mrs. Dean Carolan and family of Canton, MN, the Norval Britain family of Spring Grove, and Mrs. Pearl Ehde, Mrs. Gail Rosendahl, Mrs. Claude Grahlman and Mrs. Lorraine Britain, all of Waukon. They spent the afternoon visiting. Gladys opened her cards and gifts, after which a lunch was served by Lorraine Britain and Mabel Sires. Mrs. Norval Britain made the birthday cake. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, October 14, 1981 New Albin News -Mr. and Mrs. Fred Mauss entertained their euchre club on Thursday night. After the card games, lunch was served. -Mr. Orville Sommermeyer of Mt. Pleasant spent the weekend at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Sommermeyer. -Mr. and Mrs. Mark Hammell of Columbus Junction were weekend visitors at the home her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Fruechte. On Sunday morning they were sponsors at the baptism of Jessica Troendle, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Troendle, at Ferryville, Wis. -The Lloyd Pottratz family of Davenport were weekend visitors at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Pottratz . -Mrs. Rosemary Lochner of Prairie du Chien has been appointed Public Health Nurse for Crawford County, Wis. She is the daughter of the Fred Lagers. -Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Pohlman and Mark and Tom of Caledonia, Alan Meyer of Eitzen, Susie Costello of Lansing and Mr. and Mrs. Walt Breeser were Sunday dinner and supper guests at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gilman Meyer and Clark. -Mr. and Mrs. Frank Weymiller attended the third birthday party for their great-granddaughter, Michelle, at the Steve Weymiller home on Sunday for dinner. -Contributed by Errin Wilker

Looking back to December 1981 -Rites were held at St. Patrick’s for Jeannette MONROE, 74. -Services were held for Margaret ROONEY, 88. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, hand-dated clipping 1981 - Armed robbery isn’t just news from Iowa’s large cities, as county residents realized after an armed couple entered the New Albin home of Leo Heiderscheit Saturday morning. Heiderscheit was tied up at gunpoint and the robbers then removed the cash he had in his wallet, took his ring and his wristwatch. Heiderscheit was able to free himself and call police. The incident took place around 7:45 a.m. The Allamakee County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the incident. - The children and grandchildren of Paul H. Meyer invite you to attend an open house on Sunday, April 5, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the New Albin Town House in celebration of Paul’s 81st birthday. No further invitations will be sent. - A large crowd attended John Pete Spinner’s retirement party at the Kountry Manor near Garnavillo last Thursday evening. Dave Moeller, district supervisor with the Iowa Conservation Commission, arranged the affair, held in recognition of Spinner’s 44 years of service with the Commission. He retired on January 1 of this year. He presented John and his wife, Agatha, with a boutonniere and corsage. After the dinner, John C. Brophy, member of the Conservation Commission, commended John and gave him a personal gift, an Eisenhower commemorative silver dollar. Spinner’s contributions in various phases of fisheries work were recognized. Testimonials were given by Bob Fagerland, assistant director of the ICC, Al Farris, chief of fish and game, John Stokes, chief of lands and waters, and Jim Mayhew superintendent of fisheries. Mayhew presented Spinner with a retirement gift, a Remington 1100 automatic shotgun, from Spinner’s co-workers in the fisheries section. He also received a Weber grill from John Gruber and Mary Burke. John Pete received a standing ovation from those in attendance, and he expressed his appreciation for the gifts. There was a large turnout of his old-time hatchery workers, relatives and friends. Relatives attending were Bob Spinner, Lansing; Betty and Sam Bell, Columbus Junction; John Gruber and friend, Mary Burke, La Crosse. Wis.; Paul, and Mrs. Paul Spinner and George Lee, Lansing; Ed and Betty Kristan, Gurnee, Ill.; Mr. and Mrs. Erling Omdahl of Decorah; Mr. and Mrs. Joe Sobolik of Cresco; Mr. and Mrs. Bill Gruber and Mr. and Mrs. Bob Mefferd of Marion; and Mr. and Mrs. Tom Gruber of Cedar Rapids. Others attending included John Brophy, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson Cooper, and Gretta Gee, all of Lansing; and Ray Mulholland 0f New Albin. Conservation Commission personnel from Guttenberg, Elkader, Manchester, Bellevue. Waukon, McGregor, Decorah, Highlandville, Solon, Washington, Iowa City, Independence, Indianola and Des Moines were present. Pictured presenting certificate to Spinner are Commission chairman Marian Pike and commissioner John Brophy. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Looking back to July 1982 -Martin DEVITT, 72, died July 21 at Hines Hospital, Maywood, Illinois. Burial was at St. Mary’s Hanover. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Looking back to September 1982 -Waukon relatives received word of the death in Auckland, New Zealand, of James O’MEARA Jr. 67, which occurred Sept. 7. -Rites were held for Frances GAVLE, 70, at Big Canoe Lutheran Church. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Allamakee Journal, December 1982 New Albin News -Mr. George Hammell Sr. has sold his house to Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Middendorf of Caledonia, Minn. The Middendorfs plan to move to New Albin soon. Mr. Hammell now makes his home in the Weber Apartments. -Mrs. Pearl Kroack hosted her bridge club on Wednesday afternoon. A one o'clock dessert luncheon was served. High honors went to Phyllis Breeser. Traveling went to Gladys Dannenbring, guest to Alice Hurley and the low to Sarah Wilkins. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Looking back to February 1983 -Rites were held for Nellie BRESHNAHAN, 82, at St. Patrick’s. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Looking back to June & July 1983 -Funeral services were held at St. Patrick’s for Cora GAVIN, 89. -William “Booky” ZOLL, 63, rites were at St. Patrick’s with burial at Hanover. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Postville Herald, August 17, 1983 POSTVILLE SCHOOLS POST BUS LINE ASSIGNMENTS The Postville Herald, as a public service, is printing the bus routes of the Postville School for the 1983-84 school year. The list appears as submitted by the school, though future adjustments may be necessary. Route No. 1 Harold Meyer And Merlin Harnack, Drivers Alan Boetefure, Patty Elvig, Brian Brink, Kristal Brink, Dawn Fish, Lisa Fish, Bryan Fish, Darcy Fish, Tammie Winkie, Scott Adam, Duane Adam, Lew Steele, Trent Voss, Tricia Voss, Tim Voss, Randall Dreier, Anisa Dreier, Melissa Dreier, Lainie Tieskoetter, Jay Tieskoetter, Karla Tieskoetter, Roger Tieskoetter, Matt Marting, Deanna Dage, Darren Dage, Kari Berns, Misty Koenig, Travis Koenig, Angie Duwe, Shannon Duwe, Doug Huinker, Jon Huinker, Christa Foels, Brandon Sebastian, Jason Opheim and Nicole Opheim. Route No. 3 Marvin Radloff, Driver Alan Krambeer, Becky Krambeer, Tim Engelhardt, B.J. Rekow, John Krambeer, Julie Krambeer, Kari Krambeer, Eva Meyer, Eric Meyer, Lonnie Martins, Lisa Martins, Lynn Martins, Vicky Kuhse, Gail Kuhse, Scott Nesvik, Steffen Heins, Angela Heins, Carson Landsgard, Holly Landsgard, Tyson Landsgard, Craig Green, Jennifer Dean, Jody Dean, Russell Brandt, Amy Brandt, Daphne Deering, Deanna Gunderson, Wendy Anderson, Wayne Anderson, Wendy Waters, Jason Waters, Joni Waters, Amy Preuss, Sheila Preuss, Jayleen Suckow, Mark Suckow, Brent Wilker, Brad Wilker, Craig Sebastian, Susan Sebastian, Jean Sebastian, Ken Kerr, Jason Lechtenberg, Tim Schlee, Troy Everman, Kristi Wedo, Kevin Wedo, Robert Wedo and Christopher Anderson. Route No. 4 Ray Suckow, Driver Jerrod Enyart, Darrel Enyart, Kathy Hager, Brandon Guese, Rachelle Guese, Gerett Guese, Christopher Haugen, Ginny Haugen, Merea Haugen, Grace Barker, Carrie Barker, Larry Frey, David Frey, Joey Livingston, Leisa Livingston, Craig Adam, Kevin Adam, Richard Gaida, Tim Wahls, Kim Wahls, Susan Wahls, Tony Lopez, Craig May, Matthew Gruber, Mark Gruber, Todd Gruber, Tory Hughes, Travis Hughes, Toby Hughes, Kari Hughes, Elizabeth Enyart, Steve Enyart, Kara Lee Schultz, Shawn O'Hara, Preston Engelhardt, Paul Engelhardt, Melissa Engelhardt, Mike Engelhardt, Brandi Lange, Jason Lange, Tim White, Michelle White, Pam Arnburg, Kim Arnburg, Debra Althouse and Randy Althouse. Route No. 6 Leo Foels, Driver Melissa Zweibohmer, Elaine Martin, Eli Martin, Travis Thornton, Lisa Miller, Staci Bacon, Susan Swenson, Stacy Swenson, Lynette Koth, Carmen Koth, Sabrina Swenson, Kelly Krampeter, Kirk Krampeter, Wendy Smith, Susan Mohror, Andrew Mohror, Kraig Kuhse, Jodi Kuhse, Kyle Kuhse, Addison Hass, Gary Jarmes, Heather Swenson, Erika Swenson, Doug Zieman, Becky Zieman, Wendy Zieman, Amy Zieman, Brenda Brainard, Debra Brainard, Blake Schultz, Kari Schultz, Lane Friederich, Nancy Lechtenberg, Charlotte Olson, Lacey Mork and Stephanie Mork. Route No. 7 Leon Blumhagen, Driver Lacey Wunder, Rodney Wheeler, Tamantha Schwinefus, Debra Schwinefus, Tharin Schwinefus, Chris Wilhelm, Misty Fjelstal, Mike Colsch, Matt Colsch, Tim Jones, Darcy Broszeit, Holly Schnuelle, Scott Henning, Lisa Staake, Loren Staake, Chad Grotegut, Amy Rechsteiner, Paul Rechsteiner, Gina Lenth, Nicky Hughes, James Hughes, Darin Berg, Melissa Hughes, Ted Hughes, Justin Balk, Chonda Spilde, Carrie Spilde, Karla Klepper, Audrey Klepper, Stacy Crawford, Christoffer Crawford, Jenny Nesteby, Tim Bodley, Jeff Benson, Candice Schnuelle, Kent Jones, Janna Jones, Erica Everman, Lori Kleve, Melissa Kleve, Trent Bodley, Jamie Bodley, Vicki Bodley, Tom Hogan, Patricia Hogan, Veronica Gerleman, Lavonne Martie, Misty Anderson, Jeff Eberling, Lynette Eberling, Dan Eberling and Mark Eberling. Route No. 8 Troy Shager, Driver  Billy Koenig, Eugene Gander, Randy Larson, Christy Larson, Grant Schultz, Heather Schultz, Paul Schultz, Wendy Schultz, David Zajicek, Michelle Zajicek, Jill Linderbaum, Mathew Linderbaum, Jo Ellen Panoch, Randy Lenth, Ricky Lenth, Joshua Holthaus, Amie Anderson, Andie Anderson, Angie Anderson, Wade Henning, Devon Henning, Beth Henning, Rachele Kirkestue, Amee Kugel, Glen Ohloff, Jenni Green, Stacy Green, Lori Green, Jody Green, Anthony Meyer, Jeremy Bissell, Luther Koenig, Marce Koenig, Karisa Groth and Ryan Groth. Route No. 9 Dean Downing, Driver Chris Ryan, Mike Ryan, Jeremy Ryan, Sheri Sadler, Dan Sadler, Steve Sadler, Todd Walch, Darrin Walch, Lisa Walch, Tom Miene, Trent Miene, Trace Miene, Robert Imoehl, Beth Imoehl, Tim Lenth, Chad Radloff, Jason Martins, Brian Olson, Bruce Olson, Paul Weipert, Chris Weipert, Neil Sass, Chad Moeller, Cathy Moeller, Lance Looney, Kam Looney, Sherman Zieman, Charmion Zieman, Beth Kleve, Brandon Kleve, Beth Schutte, Jason Schierholz, Jodi Schierholz, Kevin Schierholz, Peggy Schierholz, Tim Rissman, Robert Plaht, Kurt Miene, Keith Miene, Julie Heying, Craig Heying, Scott Heying and Chris Burington. Route No. 10 Don Meyer, Driver Josey Walker, Mark Walker, Matthew Moser, Jamie Keune, Sabrina Larson, Shelly Larson, Heather Olson, Mike O'Brien, Pete Peterson, Kathy Radloff, Richard Radloff, Peggy Radloff, Craig Radloff, Annette Bente, Richard Bente, Kathryn Kurth, Marcus Wettleson, Koral Foels, Laurie Foels, Darren Radloff, Charlie Meyer [remainder of article is cut off] NEW MEMBERS ON SUMMER REC. BOARD Four new members were elected to the Postville Summer Recreation Board during the group's annual picnic August 3rd. Jim Bossom, Cheryl Waters, Bill Armentrout and Susan Erbe were elected to fill positions being vacated by Doug Smith, Jeannie Bucknell, Cloy Kuhse and Fayne Szabo. Joe Duwe, Norma Koenig, Norm Leeman and Cindy Opheim remain on the board for another year. The Summer Rec. financial report showed that the group began the year with a balance of $3,228.84 and brough in an additional $2,206.74 in additional revenue.  They paid out $2,730.46 in expenses, finishing the year with a total balance of $2,705.12. A HELPING HAND Karen Meyer of Postville, presented a check to Mary Bolks, director of the Northeast Iowa Developmental Center in Waukon, for the proceeds raised during "Coffee Day" this past spring.  Coffee Day is annually sponsored by the Iowa Restaurant Association in conjunction with the Association of Retarted Citizens to hel raise funds for various projects.  The check represents the total proceeds taken in from Allamakee County and will be used to purchase ceramics supplies for the Waukon center. ADVERTISEMENTS: SEBASTIAN PAINTING & ENERGY SAVING PRODUCTS Milo Sebastian Postville, Iowa Magnetite Inside Storm Windows Rusco Doors and Windows Exterior Painting Water Blasting Tree Trimming Sign Work  NORMA JEAN'S Postville, Iowa How time flies!!!  We're having our 5th Anniversary, Wednesday, August 17th.  Come in and have a cup of coffee and a tasty bar with us and check our special buys.  Our summer racks will have really super prices.  Fall merchandise will be be marked down 10% to 25% off.  We'll be introducing a brand new sweater to our store.  Hush Puppies in many styles and colors -- buy one at 25% off and get a cute stuffed Hush Puppy free!     SCHROEDER INSURANCE Postville, Iowa Auto-Owners Insurance Life, Home, Car and Business One name says it all. SCHUTTE'S HOME FURNISHINGS Postville, Iowa ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Looking back to September 1983 -Rites were held for Francis ZOLL, 85, at St. Patrick’s Waukon. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, December 1983 A number of senior citizens and friends accepted Don Love’s invitation Saturday evening at Campbell’s Hall. Special guests were Alvina Boltz, 91, Lydia Krueger, 87, Marcia Baechler, 83, and Alfred Meyer, 82. The hall was decorated with Christmas lights, ornaments and mistletoe. The party started at 6:30 with a potluck dinner and dinner music furnished by Don Love at the Lowry organ. Dancing from 8:30 to 12:30 followed, with Don at the organ and "Tat" Sires on the trumpet. Tat was a special guest, honored for 50 years of providing dance music in the surrounding communities. The highlight of the evening was a waltz by Cleon Sires and Marcia Baechler (83 years young) to the tune "The Waltz You Saved for Me." It ended under the mistletoe. During the intermission a delicious birthday cake, baked by Mrs. Don Love, was served to the honored guests and all present. The young and young-at-heart enjoyed the evening, and are looking forward to another jamboree next year. Those who participated in this enjoyable event give their special thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Don Love, Tat Sires, and Mr. and Mrs. Duncan Campbell for donating the use of the hall. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Looking back to December 1983 -Charles L. LONNING, 17, rural Dorchester, was killed when he was on slid into the path of a motor vehicle on Iowa 76 about 10 ½ miles north of Waukon.  The report in the Allamakee County Sheriff’s office shows Lonning coming off the steep drive at the Lonning farm and sliding into the path of the vehicle operated by Randy SWEENEY, 32, of Waukon. ~*see note at the bottom of the page

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, February 1984 New Albin - The Republican Party caucus was held Monday night, February 20, at the Town House. Delegates selected to attend the county convention in Waukon on March 24 are Shirley Bulman, Sandy Hosch, Phyllis Breeser, Clarence Van Brocklin and Raymond "Tat Sires. Alternates are Roy Renk, Carl Vonderohe and Floyd Pottratz. Jim Hosch was elected chairman and Ray Whalen is the secretary. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, Lansing, March 1984 A fire gutted the trailer of the Carver Smerud family early in the morning of Sunday, February 26. The Smeruds were awakened when they heard rifle shells exploding from the heat, and although the fire department arrived shortly thereafter, the fire was by then out of control. The fire, which was discovered around 3:45 a.m., claimed nearly all the Smerud family possessions. A fund drive for the family has been started, and donations may be left the New Albin Savings Bank. ~Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, November 27,1985 New Albin news by Mrs. Walt Breeser The raffle ticket winners at the Peace Crooked Creek Church Harvest Fest dinner on Sunday, November 17, were as follows: matching quilt and pillow, Gladys Elsheimer, Coffeeville, Kansas; Lloyd Ogilvie, Caledonia, Minn.; and plant hanger, Margaret Goetzinger, Caledonia, Minn. Ruby Middendorf entertained her canasta club on Monday afternoon, November 18. A 1 p.m. dessert luncheon was served. Vernie Bellon won high score, Ann Pohlman won second high and Gladys Bakewell the guest. Mae Crowley had low honors. The "Crazy Eight" euchre club met on Tuesday night at the home of Shirley Weymiller. A 7 p.m. dessert luncheon was served. Esther Breeser won high score and Evelyn Plagge won low. Theresa Buege won the door prize. Dorothy Visger hosted her bridge club on Thursday night. Lil Sires won high honors, Phyllis Breeser won traveling and Phyllis Heiderscheit the guest. Gladys Richards won low. Lunch was served. -- -Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Richards and daughter Denise spent the past weekend with his mother, Gladys Richards. -Saturday night supper guests at the home of Gladys Richards were Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Richards and Denise, Sandwich, Ill.; Mr. and Mrs. Loren Richards and Dusty of Laramie, Wyo.; Mr. and Mrs. Gaylord Schoh of Waukon; Mr. and Mrs. Dave Richards and Corey and Kris of Lansing; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Richards and Kelly, Marie Richards and Mr. and Mrs. Cleon Sires, all of New Albin. -Mrs. Lucille Pottratz and Mrs. Martha Haar of Eitzen, Minn. and Mrs. Elsie Meiners of Caledonia, Minn. were Tuesday, November 19, dinner guests at the home of Frosty and Gina Sires. The day was spent reminiscing, as all the ladies had been neighbors while growing up in South Dakota. Frosty and Gina's daughters, Lynette and son, Dustin Herrmann of Onalaska, Wis., and Karen Lee of New Albin, were also present. -Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, December 1985 New Albin news by Mrs. Walt Breeser -The Lady Foresters met on Thursday night at the home of Lucille Mauss. They enjoyed a potluck supper at 6:30 and there was an exchange of Christmas gifts. Cards were played and Ruth Mark won high score. Rita Schulte won low, Judy Lager the traveling and Vivian Hosch, guest. -Fred and Laurayne Mauss entertained their euchre club on Thursday night. A dessert luncheon was served following the card games. -On Tuesday, December 10, the Sires cousins had their Christmas party at the Frosty and Gina Sires home. A potluck dinner was served at noon. Following the dinner, Christmas gifts were exchanged. Those attending were Mrs. Sylvia May, Clayton, Iowa; Mrs. Goldie Rocksvold, Prairie du Chien, Wisc.; Mrs. Emerald Grahlman, Mrs. Pearl Ehde, Mrs. Lorraine Britain, Miss Gladys Sires and Mrs. Genevieve Grahlman, all of Waukon; Mrs. Ruby Middendorf, Mrs. Mae Crowley, Mrs. Lillian Sires, Mrs. Iris Sires, Mrs. Karen Lee and Stephanie, Craig Lee and Cleon Sires, all of New Albin; and Mrs. Lanette Herrmann and Dustin of Onalaska, Wisc. The afternoon was spent visiting and looking at pictures. A very enjoyable afternoon was reported by all. -Contributed by Errin Wilker

unknown newspaper, November 1986 The late John C. Brophy, a Lansing, Iowa, businessman and longtime supporter of Viterbo College has left the college a $442,774 estate gift. According to Robert E. Gibbons, president of Viterbo College, the gift is significant for several reasons. Not only is it the largest bequest the college has ever received, it comes at a time when the successful three-year' 'Building the Future" Capital Campaign is nearing completion. And, the gift comes from a man whose generosity has served Viterbo for many years. John C. Brophy, past president of the Lansing Company, began working for the company in 1936 by filling orders for buttions and novelties. As the company grew from a payroll of 13 people and sales of $140,.000 to employment of 250 people and sales of $7 million, Brophy rose to assume the presidency of the company. He also continued to have a greater philanthropic role in the community. His involvement and concern for higher education and his devotion to the Franciscan Sisters led him to take an active part in the future of Viterbo College. Brophy served as a member of the Viterbo President's Club and on the Viterbo College Board of Directors. The Brophy Nursing Center bears his name. He was also one of the chief benefactors to the $1 million Rev. J. Thomas Finucan Endowment Fund at the college. Much of this most recent gift from the John C. Brophy estate is earmarked for this fund. According to Dr. Robert Gibbons, this gift sets a standard against which future commitments can be evaluated. "For those people who want to make a major gift to the college, it gives- them a point of reference," said Gibbons. "It. will also inspire larger scale philanthropy than we have had before." "Another significance of the gift is that with the fairly certain success of the 'Building the Future' campaign and the building of the new Student Activity Center, the gift addresses what is now the greatest long range need of the college; the endowment fund." Brophy died in December of 1985. -Contributed by Errin Wilker (Clipping from my grandmother's scrapbook, I am not related)

Allamakee Journal, November 1986 Barbara Donovan, a special education teacher in the Eastern Allamakee school district, was severely burned in a fire at her apartment in Uptown Manor Friday evening. Donovan, who is handicapped, was cleaning with a flammable fluid (nail polish remover). A nearby candle ignited fumes from the liquid and her clothing caught fire. She threw the pan of cleaning fluid across the room where it ignited the couch. A woman in an adjacent apartment heard Donovan scream and also the smoke alarm go off, but it was three youths in the alley next to the apartment who turned in the alarm at a downtown store. Before firemen reached the scene, Jeff Fitzgerald of Lansing and Christine Genz of Waterville went to Donovan's aid. Fitzgerald, with the help of Mark O'Malley, carried her from the apartment. Miss Donovan was burned on the upper part of her body. She was taken by ambulance to Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse, then transferred to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Burn Center. At press time her condition was listed as critical. Fire chief Dave Moritz said there was some smoke and water damage to the apartment. Donovan is the daughter of Mrs. Edna Donovan of New Albin. ----- In a fire Sunday evening around 9 o'clock, the firemen responded to a call on Diagonal Street near the Lutheran Church. They arrived at the Mavis Nelson home, where Mrs. Nelson and son John had been rescued by neighbors Tom Garrett and Allen Stahl. Moritz said the fire was of undetermined origin and that it gutted the wood frame building. The firemen responded a­round 8 a.m. Monday to a second call to the Nelson home. -clipping from my grandmother's scrapbook -Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, October 1988 NEW ALBIN NEWS by Mrs. Walt Breeser -There will be an "All you can eat" Chili dinner on Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Town House from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored by the New Albin Boy Scouts Troop 49. -There was a tremendous crowd turnout for the Mark Hartley benefit on October 1st in Eitzen. People from all surrounding towns attended. The Hartley family, Mark and help were overwhelmed by the support and are so grateful to all who attended and helped in anyway. -St. Joseph's Altar Rosary Society held their meeting on Monday night, October 10th at the church. Deb Beneke showed a Pro Life film. Deb Burroughs and Kay Buege served lunch. -Fred and Laurayne Mauss entertained their Euchre club on Thursday night. A dessert luncheon was served following the card games. -Bernice Wild hosted her "500 Club" on Wednesday night. A dessert luncheon was served at 7 p.m. Sarah Wilkins won high prize; Bernice Wild, second high; Gladys Bakewell, guest and Ann Pohlman, low. -Esther Breeser was taken by ambulance to Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse, on Thursday morning. -Joan Metzdorf, Mackinaw, IL came on Sunday, October 2nd to spend a few days with her mother, Mrs. Gert Darling. On Thursday, October 6, she left for home taking her mother with her for a ten day visit. Gertie returned home on Sunday night. -Keith and Phyllis Wilkins, Chad, Todd and Brooke, Waukon, were dinner guests at the Wilbur Wilkins home. -The winners of the drawings at St. Peters U.C.C. Fall Festival on Sunday, Oct. 9th were: Bruce Beneke, peanuts; Robert Maust, Sr., lap quilt; Bob Beneke, wooden train; Deb Mueller, pillow; Violet Beneke, mints; Ethel Thomas, wreath; Anita Meyer, doilies. The committee is very grateful for all the help and cooperation they recieved and for all those who attended the celebration. -Mr. and Mrs. Leo Thimmesch, Topeka, KS, spent last week visiting at the home of his mother, Mrs. Helen Thimmesch and her mother, Mrs. Marcella Strub. -Mr. and Mrs. Leo Ott and Allan of Ft. Atkinson, la, Leo and Ann Thimmesch and Marcella Strub were supper guests at the home of Linus and Bernice Ott and family on Monday night, October 10th. -Donald Sires, Enumclaw, WA, arrived on Septembet 17th at the home of his mother, Mrs. Lillian Sires. On September 21st they went to Evanston, IL where Lil stayed for two weeks at the home of her sister and husband, Edna and John Hudachko, Donnie going on to Christianburg, VA where his wife Jean was visiting her parents. After picking up Lil in Evanston, they all returned to New Albin on October 7th, visiting Jim and Linda Sires and family in Onalaska, WI, and Sally and Donna Welper in La Crosse, WI, and also many relatives in New Albin. Donnie and Jean left for their home on Wednesday, October 12th. -Rusty and Jean Martin and son Robert, Iowa City, IA returned to their home on Monday morning after spending some time with her parents, Fred and Laurayne Mauss.   -Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, November 4, 1988 New Albin News -The committee for the New Albin High School class reunion of the years of 1936, 1937, 1938 and 1939 has met and the reunion is planned for Saturday, October 1, 1988. Classmates keep the date in mind and plan to attend. -Craig and Karen Lee and Frosty and Gina Sires were supper guests of Leland (Shorty) and Evelyn Wiemer­slage of Dorchester on Mon­day, February 22. The even­ing was spent looking at old postcards of New Albin and area and visiting. A most enjoyable evening. -Recent visitors at the Frosty Sires home were Bill and Mabel Sires of Spring Grove, MN and Lorraine Britain of Waukon, IA. -Contributed by Errin Wilker

Allamakee Journal, July 1989 New Albin news By Mrs. Walt Breeser -Saturday, July 1, 16 of the 17 Pottratz first cousins gathered at the Russ and Sally Paus home for a steak fry and an evening of reminiscing. It had been six years since the last reunion. They are the grandchildren of Richard and Emma Pottratz. Attending were: Dick Pottratz, San Luis Obispo, CA; Jessica Leadley, San Clements, CA; Fred and Mary Staggemeier, La Crosse, WI; Ron and Joyce Vonderohe, Ron and Lois Weymiller and Robert, Tom Pottratz and Mary Staggemeier all of New Albin; Russ and Mary Georgesen, Duluth, MN; Dennis Roeber, Stafford, VA; Richard Roeber, Tulare, SD; Bonnie Reiss, Stratford, SD; Carol Welke, Rapid City, SD; John and Carol Paus and Russ and Sally Paus of Dorchester; Stan Paus of Waukon and Jerry and Dixie Plagge of New Albin. Unable to attend were John and Pat Nystuen, Minneapolis, MN. -Sunday, July 2, a family reunion was held at the Ron Weymiller shop in New Albin. Attending were: Norma Paus, John and Carol Paus, Courtney and Tim, Russ and Sally Paus, Bonnie and Julie, Stan and Tom Paus, Jerry and Dixie Plagge, Joe and Jeremiah, George and Lucille Pottratz, Tom Pottratz, Russ and Mary Georgesen, Dennis and Richard Roeber, Bonnie Reiss, Carol Welke, Elmer and Erma Staggemeier, Fred and Mary Staggemeier, Ron and Joyce Vonderohe, Janet, Cheryl, Gary, Terry, Richard and Joni, Steve and Jean Meiners, Ron and Lois Weymiller, Tom and Deb Crane, Jason, Hopie and Morgan, Sherry and Todd Weymiller, Karl Leppert, Robert and Mary Staggemeier, Laurie, Scott, Jeff & Tina, Ida Pottratz, Dick Pottratz and Jessica Leadley. -Mr. and Mrs. Barry Sires and daughter Shauna from Tulare, SD spent the weekend With Barry's parents, the Forrest and Virginia Sires, and sisters Lanette Herrmann and Karen Lee and their families. They brought Heather Lee back with them. She had been visiting at the Barry Sires home for two weeks. -Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Tanner and four boys visited at the Forrest Sires home the weekend of July 8. They had come from South Dakota and were on then way home to Manhattan, IL. -Stephanie Lee returned to her home Saturday after spending a week at Bible camp at Woodland Campground, Zumbro Falls, MN. -contributed by Errin Wilker

*This clipping is from the Lansing Journal "Looking Back" collection of the late Harold Devitt. The contributor wrote: "These were given to me, so I don't know when they ran as "Looking Back" items. I still am not certain who typed these pages, but I think it should be noted that many of the entries are just little snippets that somebody chose to type up. I’m sure the original paper has more information on some of these entries."

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