Community News Stories

Adults and children alike are invited to “Honoring Black History…Celebrating the Past, Nourishing the Future,” an event celebrating the culture of Blacks and Africans, Thur., Feb. 27, 5 pm at The Landing Market.

This community building event is sponsored by The Landing Market, the Black Student Union (BSU), a student group at Luther College, the college’s Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES), and the Oneota Valley Literary Foundation. It coincides with the Black History  Month at the college.

Focusing on “Eats, Education, Engagement,” the event will feature a meal of Jerk Chicken, collard greens, mac & cheese, and beignets prepared by members of the BSU.  Cost is $10. For students (with ID) attending any college or university and for children 17 and younger, the cost is $5. No reservations are needed.

This event will also participate in the African American Read-In, a groundbreaking effort to encourage communities to read together, centering African American books and authors. The AARI was established in 1990 by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month. Through the Oneota Valley Literary Foundation, books by a variety of Black and African American authors will be available to attendees at no charge.

In addition, several  local black-owned businesses will be hosting pop-ups at The Landing during the event.

“This event truly displays true collaboration between Luther College and Decorah to lift the diversity of our community and engage in discovery to foster greater belonging for all,” says Dr. Robert Clay, Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer and Assistant to the President for Community Engagement at Luther.

“The Landing is very excited to be a sponsor of this event,” says Landing owner Pete Espinosa, “and to be part of bringing people together to get to know one another.”

The Landing Market, located at 211 College Dr., in Decorah, opened in July 2020 as a food hall and community gathering spot.  Today The Landing is home to Justin’s (restaurant), The Buzz (coffee & cocktails), Root 43 (juices, smoothies, bowls), and Tandem which supports the disability community as well as Oneota Health Solutions chiropractic care and Nagle Signs.  For more information, email info@thelandingmarket.com or call (563) 277-1893.

Grab the kids and come meet our local law enforcement and fire departments at WW Homestead Dairy in Waukon, IA from 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM this Saturday, February 22nd.

Warm up with a hot chocolate, coffee, or cookie and visit with the Allamakee County sheriffs, Iowa State troopers, Waukon police & fire departments, and county wide first responders. You’ll be able to learn about equipment and check out all their cool cars and trucks! Cars and trucks will be parked inside to keep us out of the winter weather.

Free hot chocolate, coffee, and Gavin’s Goodies cookies available to our visitors (while supplies last).

Assumption Parish in Little Turkey will be having their Spring Card Party on Sunday March 9 at 1:30 in the church basement.  You can play your choice of 500 or Euchre.  The $5 admission includes lunch at the end of playing.  There will also be a raffle with lots of fun prizes.

Saturday, March 1, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Doors Open at 9:30 AM)

Ferryville, WI – Mark your calendars for the 15th Annual Eagle Day, a FREE family-friendly event happening Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Village Community Center on State Highway 35 – The Great River Road. Hosted by the Ferryville Tourism Council and co-sponsored by Friends of Pool 9, this event celebrates the majesty of bald eagles and the beauty of the Mississippi River.

This year, Friends of Pool 9 introduces an exciting new feature—Wood Duck Box Adoption! Kids can adopt a wood duck box for free, choose to install it themselves or have a volunteer place it on the river, and track their box’s activity on Facebook. Plus, every child who adopts a box receives a FREE hoodie from Friends of Pool 9!

Event Highlights

Live Raptor Program (10:30 AM) – For the first time, a Golden Eagle will be featured alongside other raptors from River Valley Raptors (Buffalo City, WI).

Decorah Raptor Resource Project (12:00 PM) – John Howe and Amy Ries present “Eagles of the Mississippi River”, sharing insights into eagle families along the river.

Duck ID Program (1:00 PM) – Learn about local waterfowl with experts from the Wisconsin DNR.

Bald Eagle Nest Building (10:15 AM) – Watch and participate as a real eagle nest is built, showing just how massive and strong these nests are!

Hooting Contest (11:30 AM) – Test your owl-calling skills and compete for the title of best “hooter.”

Student Involvement & Art Awards

Middle school students from De Soto and Seneca will display their bald eagle-themed art and science projects, competing in categories such as Creativity, Most Informative, Judges’ Choice, and Most Artistic. Awards will be presented at 11:45 AM.

Prizes & Giveaways

Attendees can fill out a comment card for a chance to win door prizes, including gift certificates from local businesses and other prizes. A special 16×20 metal print of a bald eagle in flight, donated by local photographers Deb and Don Warren, will also be raffled off. Proceeds go toward keeping Eagle Day a free event for years to come!

Why Ferryville?

Located right on the Mississippi River, Ferryville is located in Pool 9, home to more bald eagle nests than any other section of the river. With over 200 active nests in the Pool 9 region, it’s the perfect place to witness these incredible birds in their natural habitat.

Join Us!

Eagle Day is a must-attend event for nature lovers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts. Enjoy a day of learning, fun, and eagle watching along the beautiful Mississippi River. For more information, visit www.visitferryville.com or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ferryvillewi.

Who:  Chaseburg Rod n Gun Club and Stoddard Lions

What:  Ice Fishing Derby-Stoddard Bay

When: Saturday February 22nd, 2025:  Derby starts at 8:00a.m.-1:00 finish, registration starts at 7:00a.m.

Where: Registration at The Stoddard Boat Landing

Why: 3 Divisions for Kids and 1 adult division, Door Prizes and fish place finishers…

WHY: BREAK-UP CABIN FEVER!!!  DOOR PRIZES, LUNCH, and BEVERAGES FOR ALL AGES…come on out and enjoy the DAY!

Who: Canton Community Association
What: Lucky Leprechaun Raffle and Bingo
Where: ZZTap, Canton, Minnesota
When: March 16, 2025; Bingo @ 1:00, Raffle Drawing @ 4:00 (It’s Your Lucky Day)
Why: Canton Community Associations Fundraiser to support Canton Day Off Celebration, August 2025

Lansing FFA Chapter is hosting a soup supper and bake sale on Friday, February 7th. Serving from 5pm to 7pm. They will be serving homemade chicken noodle soup along with chili and mac and cheese. This will be taking place during the home basketball games verse MFL MarMac. It will be a free will donation. Please consider supporting the Lansing FFA Chapter at their soup supper and bake sale.

March 2,2025 9am till noon.

All proceeds will go towards the construction of a New Fire Station.
Serving pancakes, sausage, eggs, apple sauce, and eggs.
Dine-in, Carry-out or Drive Thru available at the Waucoma Event Center.
Adults $9.00 kids 5-12 $5.00 5 and under are free. Hope to see you there.

The Waukon Music Departments will be hosting the 16th annual Pop’s Concert on Friday February 28th at the Waukon Middle School gymnasium. Doors will open at 6:00PM, with concert time at 7:00PM. The Pop’s Concert features high energy musical numbers from the 1950’s through today with costumes and choreography included in every performance! Groups performing will include the high school and middle school choirs, high school and middle school jazz bands, drumline, middle school rock band, featured soloists, song and dance skits, and emcees.

The Pop’s Concert is an annual fundraising event sponsored by the Allamakee Music Boosters. This event is open to the public for a general admission fee of $5 per person with seating in the bleachers, and includes refreshments. Tables, which can seat up to ten people, can be sponsored for $70. Table sponsors can decorate their table, provide snacks/desserts to their guests, and invite family and friends to join in on the memorable night. For more information about reserving a table, please contact Michele Huinker at 563-380-3467 or email acsdmusicboosters@gmail.com. In case of inclement weather on Friday February 28th, the back-up date for the Pop’s Concert performance has been set for Saturday March 1st at 7pm.

The Landing Market, Decorah, is hosting a Chinese Lantern Festival, Sat., Feb. 15. Guests will be served traditional Chinese snacks starting at 5:30 pm followed at 6 pm by a buffet-style dinner of handmade beef dumplings, peanut noodles, cucumber salad, and sweet dumplings  prepared by Luther College instructor Hongxiao Yu and friends.

The Lantern Festival is a tradition in Chinese and other Asian cultures, celebrated on the fifteenth day of the first month in the lunar year. Guests will receive a red “blessing”” bag to wish others good luck, participate in a “Lucky Dumplings” game for prizes, and learn how to use chopsticks.

Cost is $25 per person payable at the event, space is limited, and registration is required by emailing info@thelandingmarket.com.

This event is part of The Landing’s Passport Dinner Experience events, now in its third year.

The Landing Market is located at 211 College Dr., Decorah. It houses food and beverage-oriented establishments, which include Justin’s, The Buzz, Tandem, and Root 43, as well as space for events. For more information, visit www.thelandingmarket.com, email info@thelandingmarket.com, or call (563) 277-1893.

Celebrate 100 years of 4-H in Winneshiek County and let 4-H members make you, your very own personalized omelet on Sunday, March 2nd from 8:00AM to 12:00PM in the Community Building at the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds. Tickets will be sold at the door for $10.00.  Youth ages 9 and under are $5.00.

While enjoying your omelet participants will be able to learn more about 4-H in Winneshiek County.  Silent auction items will be available to bid on throughout the event.  Proceeds from the event will be used to off-set direct expenses and to support the 4-H Youth Development County Extension Program.

To celebrate 100 years, we’re creating a commemorative 4-H cookbook featuring recipes from our 4-H members, alumni, and volunteers.  We would love for you to contribute your favorite recipe!  Submissions will open at the 4-H Omelet Breakfast.

We hope to see you at our EGG-CELLENT event!

19th Annual Czech Mardi Gras Event held at PIVO Brewery in Calmar, IA on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

Doors open at Noon and Adam Sandhurst & The Jolly Jammers start playing at 1 PM.

Borovany is the featured Village where Bouska, Strnad, Pechota & Koudelka Families hail from.

Live & Silent Auction, Music, PIVO, and Fun all afternoon and ending with a Czech Style Meal at 5:30.

Tickets are PRESALE ONLY at $40 a piece and can contact Audrey Lensing at 563.380.3015 to reserve yours!

All proceeds benefit Czech Heritage Partnership in Protivin, IA preserving Czech Culture.

THE 33RD ANNUAL GREAT TRI-STATE RAIL SALE

The 4000 Foundation, Limited proudly announces plans for The 33rd Annual Great Tri-State Rail Sale to be held Saturday, January 25th, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The La Crosse Center, Second & Pearl Streets, downtown La Crosse. Since 1992, the Great Tri-State Rail Sale has grown to become the Tri-State’s largest one-day Railroad Hobby Sale, Model Railroad Flea Market & Swap Meet. This 33rd annual railroad extravaganza celebrates the area’s railroad heritage while raising funds to maintain and restore The La Crosse Short Line Railroad Heritage Museum in Copeland Park. 

The Rail Sale traditionally hosts vendors from six states offering 300 tables of railroad related merchandise. Rail Sale patrons will have the opportunity to buy, sell, and trade an outstanding selection of model, toy and antique trains, books, magazine, railroad memorability, railroad art, hobby supplies, repairs and replacement parts and accessories, and many more related items.  

Admission is just $8.00. Children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. 

All proceeds from this event are used to maintain and restore The La Crosse Short Line Railroad Heritage Museum. The 4000 Foundation is a non-profit organization formed in 1998. 

Who: Canton Community Association
What: New Years Day Bingo and Soup Contest
Where: ZZTAP, Canton, MN
When: Jan. 1,2025      Enter your famous soup by 11:30, Tasting starts @ 12:00, Results for soup prior to Bingo starting @1:00
Why: We are raising money for 2025 Canton Day Off Celebration in August.

Prom season is just around the corner! Anyone looking to purchase a prom dress, or sell a gently used dress, is welcome to attend the Allamakee Music Boosters annual Prom and Semi-formal dress sale in January 2025.  Dresses to be sold can be dropped off at the Allamakee Fairgrounds Pavilion on Thursday, January 16th from 6-8pm, and Friday, January 17th from 4-6pm. The dress sale will be held at the Allamakee Fairgrounds Pavilion on Friday, January 17th from 6-8pm and Saturday, January 18th from 9am- 2pm. There will be a $5 handling fee for every dress dropped off to be sold, and dress prices will be set by the seller, however the seller will keep 90% of the sale price. Any dresses not sold by the end of the day Saturday must be picked up between 3- 4pm. Everyone from the surrounding area is welcome to buy or sell a prom or semi-formal dress at the Allamakee Music Booster annual sale January 16th through 18th 2025!!!!

The Landing Market, 211 College Dr., Decorah, is hosting “Everyone’s a Kid at Christmas,” its first holiday event for people age 75+,” Sat., Dec. 14, noon-1:30 pm. The event is free.

Those ages 75 and older can have their picture taken with Santa, then receive a coupon for a free Açaí Bowl from Root 43 Juicery.

Regional musician Charlie Warner will play traditional music of the season.

“We do enjoy focusing on the children at Christmas,” says owner Pete Espinosa. “But we want to remember the joy of Christmas is for everyone. This is our way of spreading some Christmas joy to our valued older friends and family among us.”

Known as a superfood, açaí is berry from a palm tree native to tropical Central and South America and, like blueberries, comes loaded with nutrients, antioxidants and fiber. Root 43 offers 4 Açaí Bowls with different combos of fruits, nuts, granola and other ingredients.

The Landing is also hosting its third annual “Breakfast with Santa” for families 9-11 am the same day. Santa will arrive by horse and carriage. Children can visit Santa, receive a free gift, and enjoy craft activities. Santa Face Pancakes and hot cocoa specials are available for purchase. Free carriage rides will be available. Nick Chill Photography is providing the option of having a professional photograph taken with Santa for purchase.

The Landing Market opened in July 2020 as a food hall and community gathering spot.  Today The Landing is home to Justin’s (restaurant), The Buzz (coffee & cocktails), Root 43 (juices, smoothies, bowls), and Tandem which supports the disability community as well as Oneota Health Solutions chiropractic care and Nagle Signs.  For more information, email info@thelandingmarket.com or call (563) 277-1893.

Who: Canton Community Association

What: Santa Comes to Town and Lighted Parade, 4:30-6:30:  Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, Lighted Wagon Rides, Hot  Chocolate and Popcorn served by First Southeast Bank, Lighted Parade @ 6:30, and Fireworks immediately after the Parade,  Free Movie at Town Hall right  after Fireworks!!

When: December 14,2025 ,  4:30 to 6:30

Where:  Canton, MN

Why:  Great event put on by Canton Community Association, everyone welcome!!!

Who: Canton Community Association

What: 1st Annual Elf Crawl, Wear your best Elf Costume for best dressed Elf Contest, Return with you punch card filled  to enter a drawing

When: December 14,2024  7-9PM

Where; Canton MN Register at ZZTap  @ 6:30 Maps provided at Registration

Why: Fund Raiser for Canton Day Off Celebration in August of 2025

For Immediate Release
Contact: Brecka Putnam
brecka.putnam@gmail.com
630-957-8003

Dozens of Decorah 8^th Graders Help Host Holiday Vendor Event to Raise Funds for DC Trip.
December 14 Vendor Event will include traditional crafters and vendors, over 20 8^th grade booths, breakfast and lunch, and pictures with Santa.

(Decorah, IA) – On Saturday, December 14, the 12^th Annual Holiday Craft and Vendor Market will take place at the Community Building at the Winneshiek County Fairground. Like many vendor events, the market will feature handcrafted items, health and beauty products, homemade treats, home décor, and more. Unlike most markets, over a quarter of the vendors are eighth grade students, and students will be working the door, the food area, set up and tear down. Each student attends Decorah Middle School or St. Ben’s and is working to raise funds for their trip to Washington, DC this summer.

“Six years ago my niece and I went on this trip together,” said Brecka Putnam, one of the organizers. “I noticed that there were not a lot of group fundraising opportunities, and I felt strongly that no student should miss out on this trip because of lack of funds. I’m lucky to know some great event organizers who help put on a great event that vendors and customers come back to year after year. They all really enjoy helping the students while finding great holiday items.”

This year’s event is unique in that there are more students participating than ever before, and that Santa is coming for the first time. Attendees who visit from 12-3 PM will have the opportunity to have a professional photo taken with Santa. They can also purchase breakfast and lunch, participating in wine tasting, stuff their own teddy bear, and more. The first 100 attendees will receive free gift bags.

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Santa will be coming to town, or should we say to the farm! A Drive-Thru Santa on the Farm event will be held at Iowa’s Dairy Center on Friday evening, December 13 from 5-7 p.m. Iowa’s Dairy Center is located at 1527 Hwy. 150, Calmar.

Visitors will be able to meet Santa from their vehicles. The drive-thru event will take visitors right through the farm’s freestall barn to see a close-up view of the milking cows. Pre-packaged cookies, honey, and milk will be served right to your vehicle and visitors will also receive a fun holiday goody bag which includes dairy educational activities. This family-friendly event is free to the public and donations are appreciated. The event will be weather permitting. For up-to-date information or questions, visit the Northeast Iowa Dairy & Agriculture Foundation’s Facebook page or email info@iowadairycenter.com.

CALMAR, Iowa–Santa will be coming to town or, should we say, to the farm! Join the Northeast Iowa Dairy & Agriculture Foundation for this year’s Santa on the Farm event on Friday, Dec. 13, from 5-7 pm at Iowa’s Dairy Center.

Community members will be able to meet Santa from their vehicles. The drive-thru event will take visitors right through the farm’s freestall barn to see a close-up view of the milking cows. Cookies and milk will be served right to vehicles. The community members who attend will also receive a fun goody bag with dairy activities and more.

This family-friendly event is free to the public, but donations are appreciated. It will be held weather permitting. For up-to-date information or questions, visit the Northeast Iowa Dairy & Agriculture Foundation’s Facebook page.

The 48th Annual Allamakee Ecumenical Christmas Concert: A Night of Harmony and Holiday Spirit

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better way to embrace the spirit of Christmas than by attending the 48th Annual Allamakee Ecumenical Christmas Concert at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Waukon, IA. This cherished community tradition returns Sunday, December 8, at 7:00 PM, offering an evening of inspiring music, heartfelt storytelling, and Christmas cheer.

For nearly five decades, this concert has brought people together, and this year’s event promises to be as magical as ever. Whether you’re joining in person at St. John’s Lutheran Church, located at 8 Fifth Street SW, or tuning in via Facebook Live on St. John’s Lutheran Church’s Facebook Page, this is a must-attend celebration of the season!

A Festive Program to Delight All

The evening will feature local clergy sharing the timeless Christmas Story, accompanied by congregational carol singing with organ accompaniment. But the magic doesn’t stop there!

Musical highlights include:
🎵 The Men’s Choir, known as the Heartland Barbershop and Gospel Singers, delivering soul-stirring choral numbers.
🎵 The mass Ecumenical Choir, bringing all voices together in harmony.
🎵 Performances by the St. John’s Youth and Adult Handbell Choirs, adding a unique, resonant touch.
🎵 The talented WHS Saxophone Quartet, offering their holiday flair.
🎵 Piano accompaniment by Kristie Roeder and organ performances by James Bieber with the assistance of Kathy Murray.

A Spotlight on Soloists

Baritone soloist Shauna Johnsen, Postville Band Director, will be featured, as well as Sarah Hagen, of Allamakee Community Players and WHS’s Assistant Musical Director, whose radiant voice will join the Men’s Choir and shine in a special performance of “Pie Jesu” from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Requiem. Hagen will perform this moving duet with Sarah J. Bieber, daughter of concert director James Bieber and the Waukon Middle and High School Choral Director and Musical Director.

A Tradition Led by Talented Hands

Under the expert guidance of James Bieber, with his daughter Sarah Bieber as assistant director, this program brings together generations of talent and tradition. The two have been performing together and assisting each other on hundreds of musical occasions.

Don’t Miss Out!

This free concert is open to everyone, so bring your family and friends for an unforgettable evening of holiday joy. Immediately following the concert, please join us in the church’s basement for refreshments and fellowship! Can’t attend in person? Join us virtually on Facebook Live on the St. John’s Lutheran Church’s Facebook Page or listen live on KNEI 103.5 or kneiradio.com and experience the concert from the comfort of your home.

Let the music of Christmas fill your heart and celebrate the season in the company of community and tradition. We’ll see you there!

Santa and Mrs. Claus Come to Santa’s Land in Ossian
Get out your lists and your cameras! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at Santa’s Land at the Luana Savings Bank on Saturday, December 7, from 8:30 -11:00 a.m. The event is sponsored by the City of Ossian, the Ossian Crown Club and Luana Savings Bank. There will also be an opportunity to bring donations for the Greater Area Food Pantry in Calmar. A non-perishable food item or monetary donations is appreciated.

Bring along your list for Santa and Mrs. Claus or drop it off in Santa’s Mailbox in front of the Ossian Community Center. Santa will write back to you if you include your return address. See you at the Luana Savings Bank on Saturday, December 7, for Santa’s Land.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Community Luncheon to Feature Distinguished Lutheran Scholar Dr. Caryn Riswold

DECORAH, IOWA — A community-wide luncheon and presentation featuring Dr. Caryn Riswold, Professor of Religion and McCoy Family Distinguished Chair in Lutheran Heritage and Mission at Wartburg College, will be held on Sunday, November 10, from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 701 Iowa Street, Decorah.

Earlier that morning, Dr. Riswold will also present at the Sunday Forum at First Lutheran Church, 604 W. Broadway Street, Decorah, from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m., offering two opportunities for community members to engage with her work.

Dr. Riswold will discuss her recent publication, “ReEngaging ELCA Social Teaching on Abortion,” which examines the evolution of Lutheran social teaching in changing contemporary contexts. The book focuses on fostering thoughtful dialogue within faith communities while emphasizing the Lutheran call to compassionate community engagement.

A respected scholar in Religion and Gender Studies, Dr. Riswold joined the Wartburg College faculty in 2018 after sixteen years of teaching at Illinois College. Her work is praised for its nuanced approach to complex social issues through the lens of Lutheran theology and ethics.

Dr. Jacqueline Bussie, former Concordia College professor, describes the book as “nuanced, clear, and hopeful,” noting that it “takes holy risks, builds bridges across barriers, and insists that we feel the intricate textures of real-life situations.”

The book includes discussion questions and additional reading resources, making it suitable for both individual and group study. Copies are available through Augsburg Fortress Press and as a Kindle download on Amazon.

Event Details:

Sunday Forum:

– Date: Sunday, November 10

– Time: 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.

– Location: First Lutheran Church, 604 W. Broadway St, Decorah

Community Luncheon:

– Date: Sunday, November 10

– Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m.

– Location: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 701 Iowa St, Decorah

– Cost: a $10 suggested donation

All community members are welcome to attend. 

For more information, contact:

First Lutheran Church, 563-382-2638, office@firstlutherandecorah.org

Good Lutheran Church, 563-382-3963, office@goodshepherddecorah.org

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On Saturday, October 19, Decorah Human Powered Trails (DHPT) members and their families and friends gathered for a chili cookoff at the top of Palisades Park in Decorah. Members include hikers, runners, walkers, and cyclists, and, appropriately, guests were encouraged to hike, run, or bike up the hill for the occasion. The group had much to celebrate, as they have logged over 450 hours volunteering on trails within the City of Decorah this year.

DHPT, now a non-profit organization, relies mostly on volunteers to build, maintain, promote, and enhance trail experiences in Decorah. The Independent Sector determines the value of one hour of volunteering to be $33.49, valuing DHPT’s contribution to the City of Decorah at over $15,000. DPHT also has two employees who logged over 250 hours and are paid entirely through funds raised by their members.

DHPT volunteers have been busy with trail building and maintenance this year, most recently teaming up with the Luther College Cross Country team to clear invasive brush before extending a trail near the south end of Ice Cave Road, helping to repair storm damage to the east section of River Trail and Public Television Trail, and rerouting trails at Palisades Park. This year was so wet and stormy that volunteers provided extra mowing, weed whacking, and tree clearing, cutting over fifty fallen trees off Decorah trails. DHPT leadership works closely with Decorah Parks and Recreation and the City of Decorah, with officials approving the building and rerouting of all trails and taking an active role in checking to make sure projects are completed to their specifications.

Members also support other groups promoting the use of human powered trails in the area by regularly volunteering at their programs. DPHT members were instrumental in the construction of the Decorah Rotary Club Binzebo Trail Hub at Carlson Park in early 2024; donating both time and equipment to make the project possible. They also provided volunteers and expertise for the Iowa Scholastic Mountain Bike League races in June and staffed a water stop for the Crater Run this summer.

DHPT members also groom trails throughout the snowy season and hold monthly Buckthorn Blitz days from November-February. On these days they cut, treat, and remove invasive species in the park system to improve the overall health of the forests.

“Our volunteers range in age from 3 to over 70. They are dedicated to creating the best possible user experience on Decorah’s human powered trails,” said DHPT President, Nick Pearch, “I’m glad to live in a community with this many people who are excited to roll their sleeves up and work to improve recreation for all. It was great to celebrate them on Saturday!”

For more information about DHPT, please email dhpt2023@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/DecorahHPT.

CALMAR, Iowa–Northeast Iowa Community College is developing its new three-year strategic plan (2025-2028). The College is hosting 10 community listening sessions across northeast Iowa to gather input as part of the planning process. During the hour-long session, community members will be asked for their feedback on the College and an initial draft of strategic priorities.

Calmar Community Listening Session:

Iowa’s Dairy Center, Room 115
1527 Hwy. 150
Thursday, Oct. 31

7:30 am

If you cannot attend, email Erin Shaw, strategic planning project manager, at shawer@nicc.edu  to RSVP or request an online input form.

The Landing Market in collaboration with Latines Unides, a student group at Luther College, and the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) is hosting Latines Fiesta, Tues., Oct. 29, 5-7 pm at The Landing.

Latines Fiesta coincides with Hispanic Heritage Month at the college and is the first cultural community connection event planned for the 2024-25 academic year. The word “fiesta” means to bring togetherness. Hosting fiestas is common in Hispanic communities to build connections.

Latines Fiesta will features traditional Hispanic eats, education, and engagement. The meal of chicken flautas with mole and Spanish rice made by Luther’s Roberto Coral, CIES Office Manager, and Latines Unides will be available for $10. For students (with ID) attending any college or university and children 17 and younger, the cost is $5. Quemadita, a type of punch, will also be available for purchase. No reservations are needed.

“We’re excited to partner with folks at Luther for this fun event,” says Pete Espinosa, owner of The Landing. “Everyone is invited. We look forward to celebrating Hispanic culture with some great food and a good time.”

“We have such a diverse tapestry of cultures in our community and are excited to lift them through partnerships like this,”  says Dr. Robert Clay, Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer and Assistant to the President for Community Engagement at Luther. “This is a great opportunity for students and community members to get to know each other, enjoy good food together, and have fun.”

The Landing Market, located at 211 College Dr., in Decorah, opened in July 2020 as a food hall and community gathering spot.  Today The Landing is home to Justin’s (restaurant), The Buzz (coffee & cocktails), Root 43 (juices, smoothies, bowls), and Tandem which supports the disability community as well as Oneota Health Solutions chiropractic care and Nagle Signs.  For more information, email info@thelandingmarket.com or call (563) 277-1893.

Aase Haugen residents invite children to Trick or Treat

Aase Haugen residents are excited to invite area children to Trick or Treat at the nursing home on Thursday, October 31 from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.  “It really brightens our day to see the little ghost and goblins,” says Andrea Hexom, Aase Haugen activities supervisor. “Our residents will have pumpkins full of candy to pass out as the children wander through the main dining room and around the hall through Assisted Living to trick or treat with us.”

The children and their escorts should enter through the main entrance of the nursing home where they will be guided to the trick or treat area and end up exiting through the Assisted Living doors. It’s all inside, so come rain or shine!#30#

West Clermont Lutheran Church 3rd Annual Fall Ham Ball Dinner and Silent Auction

Sunday October 27, 2024

Serving from 10:30am – 2:00pm at the Clermont Opera House

Freewill Offering

Menu: Ham balls, Cheesy potatoes, green beans and pie.

Silent Auction during event with bidding ending promptly at 2:00pm.

Please see the attached information for the Humane Society of Northeast Iowa’s current adoption event going on now through the Bissell Pet Foundation.

Thanks!!

Community Presbyterian Church in Postville, Iowa will be hosting their Early Thanksgiving Dinner and Silent Auction on November 3, from 11 am-1 pm. Carry outs are available. Adults $15, Age 10 & under $5, Preschoolers and younger are free! Handicap parking Available, no pre-sales.

Address is 106 S. Reynolds Postville, IA 52162

Join LifeServe Blood Center and the Regional Health Center of Howard County Auxiliary for a community blood drive on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM at the VFW Hall,  103 2nd Ave SE, Cresco

Walk ins are welcome, appointments are encouraged.  To schedule, call 800.287.4903, text LIFESERVE to 999-777, or click the following link:

https://donor.lifeservebloodcenter.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/184888

Alta Vista Fire Department’s 5th Annual Pancake Breakfast

SERVING PANCAKES, SAUSAGE, SCRAMBLED EGGS, JUICE, MILK AND COFFEE
FREE WILL DONATION
“FILL THE BOOT!”
FOOD WILL BE SERVED DRIVE THRU OR DINE IN!
ALL PROCEEDS GOING TOWARDS PURCHASE OF EXTRICATION TOOLS
GUN RAFFLE DRAWING AT 11AM – CONTACT ANY FIREFIGHTER FOR DETAILS
*WE WILL ALSO HAVE A DRAWING FOR DOOR PRIZES*
DELIVERY AVAILABLE WITHIN THE ALTA VISTA FIRE DISTRICT *Please call 641-229-6523 by 7pm Saturday, October 12*

Christopher Winters, MD, has joined the surgery staff at Gundersen Decorah Clinic. As a general surgeon, he offers a broad spectrum of services including appendectomy, cholecystectomy, colectomy, hernia repair, upper and lower endoscopy, Caesarean delivery plus many more. 

Born and raised in Oelwein, Dr. Winters received his Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from The University of Iowa, Iowa City.  He then earned his Doctor of Medicine from The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City. Dr. Winter completed his General Surgery Residency at Iowa Methodist Medical Center, Des Moines.  

“I chose to pursue a career in healthcare after I started engineering school. I grew up working in my parents autobody repair shop, and I have always really enjoyed complex problem solving as well as working with my hands,” says Dr. Winters. “While I was in engineering school, I really missed interacting with people as a regular part of my day, and I also found myself wanting to move back to a rural community. I found pursuing a career in medicine as a way to help others through complex medical problems while being able to work within a community similar to the one I grew up in. Choosing to pursue training in general surgery was a natural fit as I have always found a lot of fulfillment in working with my hands.” 

In his free time, Dr. Winters enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife, Amanda, and their son, Theodore. He also likes to work on home improvement projects, along with grilling, biking and hunting. 

Dr. Winters joins Gundersen Decorah surgeons Elleson Schurtz, MD; Phillip Yee, MD; and Michael LaBelle, MD, in providing general surgery services in Decorah. In addition, Dr. Winters will provide surgery services in Waukon, West Union and Cresco. 

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Winters or one of his colleagues, call the Gundersen Decorah Clinic at (563) 382-3140.