Times-Register

By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times

Butterflies, birds, flowers, water—with a bit of knowledge and initiative, the general public can collect and share data about these things and more, aiding the research efforts of universities and other organizations. The concept is called citizen science.

“Anybody who has a little expertise in something can do it,” said Jim Langhus, a former MFL MarMac science teacher, who spoke about citizen science during the monthly coffee house program at Monona’s Murphy Helwig Library on March 6. “It’s fun, the challenge of it all and helping [researchers and scientists] gather volumes of information.”

Throughout March, which is Women’s History Month, the North Iowa Times will publish a series of articles highlighting local women. Whether through their careers, hobbies, volunteer efforts or unique personalities, these women have become an inspiration to others. Here is our first article, featuring Casey and Candace Drahn, from M's Machine.

By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times

Monona-based M’s Machine & Mfg. Co., Inc.,  has been one of the area’s leading manufacturers since 1981, when Paul Murphy and Chet Allen opened the company to provide high-quality machining services. Today, M’s is responsible for milling and turning metal and plastic parts for some of the Midwest’s leading agricultural, automotive, industrial and medical manufacturers.

By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times

Only a few months removed from writing their own novels, MFL MarMac eighth graders are now adding documentary filmmaking to their list of accomplishments.

The process began earlier this semester, when students in Scott Boylen’s language arts classes watched several documentaries, identifying the unique features of documentary filmmaking. They also learned about proper interviewing and filming techniques.

Now, after researching a topic of interest, the students—split into small groups—have begun interviewing multiple sources in order to further investigate their topics.

Grace Louise Erickson, 88, of Farmersburg, died Sunday, Feb. 25, at the Elkader Care Center, Elkader. 

Grace Louise was born Dec. 31, 1929, near Rossville, to Sankey George and Minnie (Haman) Van Gorder. She was educated at Jefferson No. 8 Country School in Allamakee County and Waukon Public School. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul Methodist Church in Waukon.