Guttenberg Press

In conversations across the rural Midwest, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago has heard increasingly about the challenges of finding quality, affordable housing and of continuing a sense of civic life amid demographic changes. Despite such reports, some rural areas have succeeded in increasing housing construction and implementing economic development projects, thus improving access to affordable units and revitalizing communities. In October 2025, the Chicago Fed’s Community Development Team brought together a wide range of people working within the rural housing ecosystem for a bus tour across Iowa’s Driftless Area to build greater awareness of some of these successful efforts.

Esther Louise Werges, 90, of Monona, formerly of Garnavillo, passed away Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, at Good Samaritan Society in Waukon, surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral services were Thursday, Feb. 26, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Garnavillo, conducted by Rev. Tyler Hoey. Visitation was before services at the church.

Burial was at Garnavillo Community Cemetery in Garnavillo.

By Audrey Posten

The first in a series of community hazard mitigation meetings that will provide feedback for Clayton County’s updated hazard mitigation plan were held last week. Meetings in additional communities are set for next week.

LaDonna Mae Jetter, 91 years young from Guttenberg passed away peacefully in her sleep on Feb. 10, 2026.

A celebration of life will be held on April 11, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Guttenberg. Visitation will be from 9:30-11 a.m., followed by the service and a luncheon. A private family burial will be held at the Guttenberg Cemetery.