When Mike Howard visited the Danish Windmill for the first time, he watched the 15-minute video featuring Harvey Sornson, the local farmer who came up with the crazy idea of bringing the sixty foot Danish Windmill to Elk Horn. Harvey’s comment, “No one said we couldn’t do it…so we did”, made an impression on Howard. As he addressed attendees at the Annual Meeting of the Danish Windmill on January 28, Howard recounted how Harvey’s story had inspired him in his many successful business ventures. At the conclusion of his remarks, Mill manager, Lisa Steen Riggs announced that Mike and Lou Howard had donated $100,000 to the Windmill. The air filled with confetti and champagne corks popped as everyone celebrated the Howards’ generous gift.

Photo attached of Danish Windmill Board members with Mike and Lou Howard: (L-R) Tony Petersen, Vice President, Manager Lisa Steen Riggs, Past President, Jody LaCanne, Shon Andersen, Secretary, Chris Fredericksen, President, Clark Ahrenholz, Director, Andy Anderson, Director, Joni Griffin, Treasurer, Lou Howard and Mike Howard. Not pictured, Tim Andersen. Photo credit: Deb Bieker

“Mike and Lou have been incredible supporters of the Danish Windmill,” said Riggs. “They’ve been so engaged in the Windmill restoration project and rebuilding the cap frame. Recently, one day over lunch, I shared all the capital projects that are still in progress for the coming year and estimated we’d need to raise about $99,000 to complete them.” She continued, “As Harvey Sornson would have said, ‘who would’ve thought’, that Mike and Lou would come to the rescue! We are so grateful for their generosity.” During the Annual Meeting, outgoing President Jody LaCanne was presented a certificate in recognition of his service on the Board. Newly elected Board members and officers include, Chris Fredericksen, President, Tony Petersen, Vice President, Shon Andersen, Secretary, Joni Griffin, Treasurer, and Directors Andy Anderson, Clark Ahrenholz and Tim Andersen.

The Danish Windmill is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt, non-profit organization. Charitable gifts and donations are the organization’s primary sources of funding. The Mill’s financials are published on the GuideStar® website so potential donors can review public records and non-profit reports. The Mill received the GuideStar® Gold Star of Transparency in 2018. Visit danishwindmill.com to review the 2018 Annual Report. To learn more about the Danish Windmill and how you can support the organization and about the projects, contact the Danish Windmill at 712.764.7472.