countyfair.org for $35 per person — children age 8 and under may be admitted at no cost. Gates will open at 6 p.m. the day of the event. Friday night entertainment was announced early this year. Country music performer Tyler Farr, with special guest Timothy Wayne will perform at the fair Friday, July 11.
(The complete version of this article originally published in the April 10 Decorah Leader, find it in full with more photos at decorahleader.com)
BY SETH BOYES DECORAH LEADER NEWS EDITOR
The punctuated sound of an arrow tip piercing its target marked the official opening of Decorah’s new archery range in Will Baker Park recently.
Decorah Mayor Lorraine Borowski loosed the first arrows at the city’s newly-opened archery range in
after the ceremonial ribbon cutting. A number of
ty members — beginners and experienced archers — soon lined up to test their aim, with the help of both Sam Lewey and Drew Nielsen.
Decorah Parks and Recreation Director Marc Holtey credited Decorah’s Sam Lewey and Drew Nielsen with proposing the creation of a local archery range approximately two years ago. Lewey told the April 5 crowd he feels passionately about teaching youth to hone their archery skills. Lewey said he initially mentioned the idea of establishing a public range in Decorah to Nielsen, who serves as the shop manager at Xpedition and Anthem Archery. Lewey said it wasn’t long before more serious discussions were taking place.
“I’m just extremely excited for this to be resource to build community — friends and family coming together to be able
to participate in a fun outdoor activity,” Lewey said.
Lewey said some communities opt to establish public archery spaces in secluded areas, which he indicated can leave a range underused. He went on to say a key component of creating the new Decorah range was identifying an area with ample space for safety while maintaining the range’s visibility to the general public.
Lewey said the city’s parks and recreation office is prepar-
ing to potentially offer youth archery programming this summer, and Holtey said he sees potential for the new range to be used not only by youth but by area archery clubs and other groups.
Decorah has been home to organized archery clubs at several points over the past decades. Archives of the Decorah Public Opinion said Milo Harvey was “in the mood to start an archery club” in Decorah around December of 1941, if he could drum up enough interest. The Decorah Bowmen was formed in early 1947, with Harvey as secretary, according to the archives, and the group provided indoor shooting opportunities during the winter months in addition to summer sporting events — the Decorah Bowmen was “reorganized from the Winneshiek Bowyers, a former club which was broken up a few years ago when most of its members were called to the armed forces.” A few moments later, Decorah Mayor Lorraine Borowski drew back on a bow and released the first arrow to symbolically open the range to the public. A number of community members — beginners and experienced archers — soon lined up to test their aim, with the help of both Lewye and Nielsen. The city’s new archery range is open to the public between sunrise and sunset. Those under age 18 must be supervised by an adult, and only field points are to be fired on the city’s range.
The Decorah Public Library will host author and former Cedar Rapids Community School District Superintendent Dave Markward as he discusses his memoir “From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond: My Journey to Understand Racism in America.” Markward’s presentation will take place at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 29 in the mezzanine at Decorah Public Library. This presentation is free and open to the public. No advance registration is required. For more information, contact Decorah Public Library at 563-3823717 or visit
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) was honored with a Leadership in Community Award from Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig at the 13th Annual Iowa Ag Leaders Dinner. This recognition celebrates the Bacon Buddies® program, a groundbreaking initiative created by IPPA in partnership with Special Olympics Iowa. Bacon Buddies embodies
(Photo submitted)
principles, particularly their dedication to supporting local communities. The program offers a one-of-akind experience where Special Olympics athletes from across Iowa team up with FFA and 4-H members to learn about animal agriculture, show pigs at the Iowa State Fair and engage with judges in front of a live audience.
This transformative experience benefits everyone involved. Special Olympics athletes develop new skills, build confidence and form lasting friendships, while their mentors gain valuable insight into working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities—an opportunity that fosters compassion, inclusion and leadership.
Cael and Kaci Wangsness. John said he was interested to learn that all pigs aren’t necessarily pink.(Photo by Roz Weis)
“The Bacon Buddies event at the Iowa State Fair always brings a smile to my face, and it’s one we look forward to every year,” said IPPA past president Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman. “Caring for our communities is a core value of Iowa pig farmers, and this annual event is a powerful way to strengthen those connections.”
Since its debut at the 2019 Iowa State Fair, Bacon Buddies has continued to expand. In 2023, IPPA introduced “Bucks for Bacon Buddies”, a grant initiative offering up to $500 to county pork producers for hosting local events. As a result, 31 county fairs, including the Winneshiek County Fair, held Bacon Buddies shows in 2024.
Secretary Naig praised IPPA’s leadership and commitment, stating: “Every year, hundreds of Iowans from every corner of the state gather for the Ag Leaders Dinner to recognize outstanding contributions made by businesses, organizations, and individuals,” said Secretary
Naig. “This year’s awardees, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Nationwide Agribusiness, Pheasants Forever, and the Iowa Association for Agricultural Advancement, have all made significant positive impacts to the ongoing success of Iowa agriculture and our rural communities. These awardees play an integral role in developing young leaders and ensuring that Iowa remains an agricultural productivity powerhouse that drives our economy forward.”
With its continued success, Bacon Buddies is not just a program – it’s a movement that brings joy, inclusion and community spirit to the heart of Iowa agriculture.
The mission of the Iowa Pork Producers Association is promoting, educating and providing a leading voice for a sustainable, socially responsible and globally competitive pork industry.
The German American Museum of St. Lucas plans to hold a Maifest celebration from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, April 26 at Pivo Brewery — 101 Huber Dr. in Calmar. The day’s schedule features free musical entertainment by the Gutten-
Are you a graduating senior who has been involved in drama? All graduating high school seniors involved in drama productions are encouraged to consider applying for a scholarship from New Minowa Players. The scholarship is for students graduating from an area high school who plan to attend an accredited college or vocational school. The New Minowa Players are looking for students who have shown strong involvement in drama in school or in the community. Preference will be given to students who have participated in NMP shows and who intend to continue that involvement in some way. Applications must be submitted by May 1, 2025. For more information, visit NewMinowaPlayers.org/ scholarships.
Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging — or NEI3A — will be hosting monthly in-person support group meetings from 10-11 am. on the first and third Mondays of each month. The meetings will be held at NEI3A’s office, located at 915 Short St., Suite 169, in Decorah. This is a free group, and all caregivers of people with chronic illnesses or disabilities, including new caregivers, are welcome and encouraged to attend. No reservations are needed. For more information, contact Kelly Kuennen, family caregiver specialist with NEI3A, at 563-277-6024. Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging serves 18 counties in northeast Iowa and is one of six Area Agencies on Aging in Iowa.
Ine Eriksen Søreide, the first woman to serve as Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, will give Luther College’s 2025 commencement address at 9 a.m. Sunday, May 25, at the college’s Carlson Stadium.
“As we enter into a year of commemorations of the 200th anniversary of the first organized Norwegian migration to America, we are excited to welcome a veteran member of the Norwegian government to speak to our graduates,” said Luther College President Brad Chamberlain. “Ine Eriksen
submitted
Spring and summer are typically welcomed with open arms. Warm weather, blooming flowers and trees full of leaves are a welcome sight for many, but seasonal allergy sufferers may find the transition from winter to spring a little more challenging.
The Center for Health Statistics found that just under 26 percent of adults and roughly 19 percent of children have a seasonal allergy. Treatments for seasonal allergies can be effective, and many people find over-the-counter medications are enough to alleviate their symptoms. But even people who take OTC medications daily may have days when seasonal allergies cause considerable discomfort. In such situations, allergy sufferers can consider these strategies.
Identify your triggers
The American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology notes that pollen is the most common outside allergy trigger. Trees and grasses typically
Public invited to ‘Songs of Power, Peace and Protest’
The public is invited to join Liz Rog from 11 a.m to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 24 at the Center for Belonging Folk School in Decorah for “Songs of Power, Peace and Protest.” All voices and ages arewelcome, and no experience is needed. Visit centerforbelonging. earth to learn more and register by May 10.
pollinate in spring and summer, which is why these seasons can be especially challenging for people with seasonal allergies. Dustmites and pets might trigger allergies indoors, but these can appear throughout the year.
A visit to an allergist can determine what exactly triggers seasonal allergies. For example, certain types of grasses and trees might be triggers for some but not others. Identifying triggers is an effective first step because it can compel people to avoid the things that cause allergic reactions.
Stay indoors on dry, windy days
The Mayo Clinic advises seasonal allergy sufferers to stay indoors on dry, windy days, when pollen can be nearly impossible to avoid.
Take advantage of a good rain
The Mayo Clinic advises that the best time for seasonal aller-
Søreide brings to us a unique perspective on the value of community on the world stage from her time in roles as Norway’s Minister of Defense and Minister of Foreign Affairs.”
Eriksen Søreide is the chair of the Norwegian Parliament’s Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defense. She served as Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2017 to 2021. Prior to that position, Eriksen Søreide was the minister of defense from 2013 to 2017. She chaired the Standing Committee on Foreign Af-
fairs and Defense from 2009 to 2013 and the Standing Committee on Education, Research and Church Affairs from 2005 to 2009.
Born in Strømmen, Norway, Eriksen Søreide received her law degree from the University of Tromsø. She was elected to the Norwegian Parliament in 2001.
No tickets are required for the outdoor commencement ceremony. The event will be livestreamed. For more information, visit commencement. luther.edu.
gy sufferers to be outside is after a good rain. Rain helps to clear pollen from the air, so post-rain conditions can be ideal for people with seasonal allergies.
Change your clothes and wash up upon coming inside
The ACAAI recommends changing clothes, washing them and taking a shower upon coming inside during allergy season. Washing clothes and taking a shower reduces the likelihood that you’ll spread pollen around the interior of your home, where it can attach to furniture and trigger allergic reactions.
Monitor the pollen count
allergy trigger, so allergy sufferers are urged to monitor the pollen count via a website such as Pollen.com, where visitors can type in their ZIP code and get an up-to-date allergy report. On days when the pollen count is high, stay indoors and keep windows closed so the pollen does not get inside. The Mayo Clinic notes that pollen counts tend to be highest in morning, so it’s best to avoid being outside during this time of day.
Seasonal allergies can make spring and summer more challenging. A few simple strategies can help people control their seasonal allergies even on days when pollen counts are particularly high.
(Retired Lutheran Pastor Ole Winter reminisces on his
years of life, sharing past experiences and life lessons with Driftless readers.)
I had just retired, and I was catching my breath in the back of our U-Haul truck. The day was September 14, 1993, and we had just moved to Decorah. Who should come around the corner but one of the pastors from Decorah Lutheran Church: he was welcoming us to Decorah. That was nice. But he didn't stay to unload. That was also the day our third grand daughter was born in Rancho Cucamonga, California. We piled all the boxes in the living room and basement and two days later took off for California. I was free; newly retired. When we arrived back home the boxes were just where we had left them, but I was pleasantly surprised to see an entirely new sidewalk in front of our Day Street house. I was impressed. Did Decorah do that for all new arrivals?
Shortly after that, when we had most boxes unpacked, who should show up but Congressman Jim Nussel. I didn't know congressmen came to visit those who had newly arrived in Decorah.
To get away from all the unpacking and decision making
As noted, pollen is a seasonal Saturday, April 26 11am-2pm
like where to put pictures on the wall, I went to a trout stream and came home with a limit of rainbows. By now I was crediting our decision to retire in Decorah about the smartest thing we ever did. I was just a tiny bit disappointed when later I found out that the sidewalk had been replaced because a cable had been laid beneath it and I have to confess that Jim Nussel had been my son's roommate at college, and he dropped by when he was in town. And someone told me I got my limit easily because they had stocked North Bear Stream the day before.
What a place to live! Oh, we do have some squabbles once in a while, such as where to locate a new school and/ or bus barn, whether or not to own our own utilities or is the racetrack too noisy. But no question about it and all joking aside- this valley of the trolls and Nisse we call Decorah is a great place to call home. The wisdom of our retirement plans was evident. Yes ... we chose the best place in the whole USA to retire!
How do you Recycle your newspaper?
•Make
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full-time Assistant Children’s and Young Adult Librarian
candidate will be a dynamic, creative individual
serving children, young adults, and families and providing
DUTIES
Duties include but are not limited to: planning and implementing programs for children and young adults; providing book recommendations to youth and families; expanding outreach services to local school districts and at off-site events (program-specific duties will be approx. 20 hours/week); and working in a forward-facing customer service role at the library’s front desk (approx. 20 hours/week). This position reports to the Library Director but also receives direction from both the Children’s and Young Adult Librarian and Circulation Manager, as well as collaborating with other library staff. This full-time role requires a varied work schedule that fluctuates day to day and week to week including some evening and weekend hours based on the needs of the Children’s and Young Adult department. PTO requests generally need to be arranged around critical program times including June and July.
QUALIFICATIONS
Exemplary customer service skills; excellent oral and written communication skills; a passion for working with children, young adults, and families; willingness to develop working knowledge of children’s and young adult literature and library materials for youth in various formats; the ability to form effective collaborative relationships with schools and other community organizations who serve children; the ability to quickly respond to and solve problems; a high degree of empathy, diplomacy, and patience; superior listening skills; a friendly, approachable style that children and teens gravitate to; and curiosity, creativity, and innovative thinking.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Demonstrated ability to relate to children individually and in groups and to provide stimulating activities which interest them. Consideration may be given for an appropriate combination of related educational, professional, and volunteer experiences. Must have (or be willing to obtain within one year) State Library of Iowa Staff Certification. Spanish language skills desired. Lifelong learners with a willingness to continuously re-evaluate best practices and a passion for serving youth are encouraged to apply. Position subject to post-offer physical examination including drug testing, background check and motor vehicle records check. TO APPLY Full job description available at www.decorahlibrary.org. For more information e-mail ktorresdal@decorahlibrary.org or call 563-382-3717. Send application, resume, cover letter and a minimum of three professional references to: Kristin Torresdal, Director, Decorah Public Library, 202 Winnebago St., Decorah IA 52101
Hundreds of people gathered at Decorah’s Mary Christopher Park to protest federal polices as part of a nationwide effort dubbed Hands Off.
Hundreds rally in Decorah to oppose federal policies, funding cuts
complete version of
BY DENISE LANA STAFF WRITER
An estimated 500 people attended Decorah’s Hands Off 2025 rally on Saturday, April 5 near Mary Christopher Park. The local rally was one of many held as part of a nationwide event in support of the public’s rights and freedoms. Some at
Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation raising funds to protect area near Quandahl adjacent North Bear Creek Wetland Management Area, which is owned by the state of Iowa and managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Decorah’s rally trekked from Minnesota and Wisconsin to add their voices to those calling for support of the LGBTQ+ community, military veterans, farming, science, water quality and other issues attendees feel have been negatively effected by the Trump Administration’s policies and funding cuts as well as certain state-level decisions.
Preservation of the site includes protecting more than a quarter-mile of Bear Creek, a freshwater stream with naturally-reproducing brown and rainbow. The site also includes
“People from everywhere are here today to say, ‘Hands off. Take your hands off of all our government programs, our nature, our water, our education — all of it,” said military veteran Laura Hubka, who acted as the local rally’s emcee. “Let’s take back patriotism. Let’s take back the American flag that belongs to all of us — this 250 years-plus experiment of democracy, where we fought against a king, against idolatry, against religious persecution, against those that would have us bend a knee. That’s not what our country stands for.”
Chrystal Duffy who lives near the city of Postville, spoke out on behalf of immigrants whom she said have experienced mistreatment in recent months as federal authorities step up deportation efforts.
“I could tell you personally — receiving a call from a friend in tears because a little boy was left behind, because his father was detained in front of him, and no one made sure that boy was safe,” Duffy said. “This happened in Postville, March 14. This isn’t somewhere else. This is 15 miles away.”
deepen their sense of place through earthbased skills, ecological awareness practices and connection with one another on the land. Days are centered around play and exploration, building relationships through games, and other activities. For more information or to register, visit redoakoutdoorschool.com.
Serves 4 to 6
and celebration, and also an opportunity to gather with family members for a delicious dinner. Traditional main courses for Easter include lamb and ham, so home cooks may want to select side dishes that can work with both. Sweet potatoes are a healthy option that also are tasty and nutritious. While some people associate sweet potatoes with the marshmallow-covered dish common around Thanksgiving, they can be sweet or savory, depending on preference. This recipe for “Savory Sweet Potato Mash” makes a delicious side dish worth enjoying. Try it, courtesy of “Danielle Walker’s Eat What You Love” (Ten Speed Press).
Did you know...
3 pounds Garnet sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1⁄2 cup almond milk
1 1⁄2 teaspoons fine sea salt
3⁄4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1⁄3 cup melted ghee
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme, plus whole leaves for garnish
Place the sweet potatoes in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover by 2 inches. Bring the potatoes to a boil over high heat, then turn the heat to medium-low and simmer until tender, about 18 minutes. Remove the potatoes from the heat, drain the water from the pan, then return the potatoes to the pan. Add the almond milk, salt and pepper to the potatoes and use a potato masher to mash to your desired consistency. Drizzle with the ghee, sprinkle in the chopped thyme, and stir gently until just combined. Garnish with thyme leaves and serve warm.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days. Reheat in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, stirring frequently, about 5 minutes.
Billions of Christians across the globe celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday, and that includes scores of children. Easter eggs figure prominently in children’s Easter celebrations, and the origins of this tradition are older than youngsters may realize.
History.com notes that historians suggest Easter
eggs can be traced to pagan traditions that considered eggs a symbol of new life. Decorating eggs is a wildly popular tradition among modern Easter celebrants, and this tradition also has a lengthy history. Some historians believe the decoration of eggs for Easter began in the thirteenth century, if not earlier. Some suggest eggs might have been forbidden during Lent, a 40-day period of sacrifice that precedes Easter. Eggs were decorated as Lent drew to a close and then eaten as part of Easter Sunday celebrations.
