If you drive a vehicle, you should know about Southland Auto & Diesel. Located in Spring Valley, just west of Ace Hardware, Southland is a hidden gem of automotive expertise. Owner Isaac Hurst explained that, “We’ve been here since 2010. I actually started out selling used cars,” but he adds, “I would work on my own cars that I bought and then sell those, and so then I … [Read more...]
Rich Wicks
Reporter
rich@fillmorecountyjournal.com
What's an Iowegian doing writing for the Journal? That's a mystery. All
we really know is that Rich lives in Cresco (Iowa), and when he's not
working, he can often be spotted chasing his wife and kids around the
neighborhood, hollering, "Uff da, slow down!"
Spring Valley offers text alert system
The Spring Valley City Council met in regular session on April 22. Members in attendance included Mayor Tony Archer, Luan Ruesink, Chris Danielson, John Dols, and City Administrator Deb Zimmer. Mike Hadland was absent. Deb Zimmer said everyone is welcomed to sign up to receive text messages related to various Spring Valley city information. Those interested in Park … [Read more...]
Two coaches into Hall of Fame
Two coaches were inducted into the Hall of Fame during the Kingsland Athletic Booster Club (KABC) banquet on April 6, at the Five Wynds Event Centre in Spring Valley. Live and silent auctions, and a raffle, were also held to help raise funds for the booster club’s various donations to the school and community. Brent Kohn was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his many years … [Read more...]
Mabel-Canton School Board vacancy to be filled
The Mabel-Canton School Board met in regular session on April 11. Members present were Mark Weidemann, Jason Marquardt, Chris Miller, Principal Michelle Weidemann, Board Chair Cristal Adkins, High School Secretary Lynette Donald, Diane Wilder, Traci Livingood, Superintendent Gary Kuphal, and Student representative Payton Danielson. Business Manager Aimee Lake was absent. … [Read more...]
Spring Valley opts for EDA change
The Spring Valley City Council met on April 8, with all members in attendance (Mayor Tony Archer, Luan Ruesink, Chris Danielson, John Dols, Mike Hadland and City Administrator Deb Zimmer). No visitors had signed up to address the council. The council heard from Spring Valley EDA (Economic Development Authority) director Cathy Enerson, who shared information regarding the … [Read more...]
Mabel looks to upgrade water main
On April 10, the Mabel City Council held a regular city council meeting. Members in attendance included Adam Wilder, Gary Morken, City Clerk Karen Larson, Mayor Jim Westby, and Terry Torkelson. Kirsten Wyffels was absent. Kurt Marx, representing Davy engineering, addressed the council about the previously discussed situation of some areas in town that need larger water … [Read more...]
Ideas shared for Wykoff school building
At the Wykoff City Council meeting on April 8, possible uses for the vacant school building were discussed. Council members in attendance included Lyle Morey, Mary Tjepkes, City Clerk Becky Schmidt, Mary Sackett and Richard Gleason. Mayor Al Williams was absent, so the meeting was led by Gleason. Rod Thompson addressed the council, explaining what he and his brother Rick … [Read more...]
Ace Hardware’s dog a customer favorite
Todd Jones of Spring Valley Ace Hardware is a dog lover, and he especially loves Doberman dogs. But when his most recent pet Doberman died, fate had a change in mind for the Jones family. Todd said, “I’ve always had Dobermans in the past. And we had a fire, and the last one died in the fire.” So they bought a “fixer-upper” house, and fixed it up good as new. Then Todd … [Read more...]
This Dozer not for sale
Harrington Enterprises, located on Highway 63 midway between Chester (Iowa) and Spring Valley, sells and services lawn and garden equipment. But lately, a Dozer has been garnering the most attention at their location. But this particular Dozer is definitely not for sale, because he’s a dog. Chad and Camri Harrington, who operate Harrington Enterprises from their home, have … [Read more...]
James Gang gold found at Mystery Cave
Nels Isaacson of rural Spring Valley recently made an amazing find. He says he spent a lot of time doing his research, and did a lot of walking around, but in the end, dumb luck played a crucial role as well. “I’ve always been a student of history, and especially the 19th century American outlaws. Most people in Minnesota have heard that the Jesse James gang once tried to … [Read more...]