51-year-old nonprofit hopes to open new store before 2025
Inc., in
through a
“I like this place because of what it does for the community,”
“I have six kids, so this is a passion of mine; to shop where things are affordable.”
By Zach Jensen
Every weekday morning, shoppers line up at the front door of Decorah’s Depot Outlet, Inc., for a chance at finding inexpensive clothing, collectibles and other treasures. The store, casually referred to as “The Depot,” opens at 9 a.m., and within the first 90 minutes of being open, employees are already restocking the shelves.
“We always have lines of people waiting to come in every morning,” said Depot Director Jessica O’Mara. “Rain or shine or 30 below, it doesn’t matter.
We’re putting new stuff out every day, all day long. It comes out as fast as we can process it. In one week in December, we processed and sold 20,000 individual items, and most of those were at $2 or less.”
As a result, the nonprofit local thrift store can provide grants and charitable donations totaling between $250,000 and $300,000 every year – all from store sales – which is why the Depot’s board of directors re-
cently decided it was time for the store’s fifth change of location. Only this time, the Depot bought nearly the entire 510 Montgomery Street building it’s currently in – almost doubling its current store and warehouse space with hopes of the new store opening before the end of the year.
“It’ll be a bigger warehouse, bigger store — bigger everything,” O’Mara said. “The Depot has always very much wanted to do what we can to improve the lives of people with disabilities. One of the priorities in this new store is that we will finally have aisles that are ADA-approved, and shoppers will feel more comfortable because there’s enough room to shop and not feel crowded.”
O’Mara, who began as a sales associate with the Depot in 2019, said the organization’s board of directors decided they wouldn’t move if they couldn’t continue to provide the county with the same amount of annual support.
“Before approving the de-
said.
cision, it was decided that if any part of this purchase would jeopardize our ability to give back to Winneshiek County, we wouldn’t do it,” she explained.
“So, if we weren’t convinced that we could continue to provide at least $250,000 to $300,000 per year to Winneshiek County, we would not have done it. And we also have to do this without raising our prices. Our necessities are going to stay cheap.”
Cheap necessities, O’Mara said, is a core value for the Depot.
“Part of the mission and the goal is to provide necessities to local individuals who otherwise cannot afford them,” she said. “This is why our clothes are still $2 each. Clothing is a necessity, and if someone cannot afford it elsewhere, they can come here and find it and have clothes for themselves or their children so they can go to school. If it’s a necessity,
Depot Outlet
continued on page 4
Breakfast on the Farm
Damp weather and soggy ground didn’t deter more than one thousand people who turned out Saturday, June 22, at Iowa’s Dairy Center in Calmar for its 14th annual Breakfast on the Farm.
From 8 till noon, the dairy was swarming with visitors taking part in tractor hayride tours, playing in corn pools, visiting educational exhibits, enjoying face painting, snacking on yummy milk, cheese, and ice cream treats, and of course, eating breakfast! There was a perpetual line flowing outside the tent where volunteers were busy serving Dad’s Belgian waffles, sausages, and a plethora of breakfast sides.
Local clinic has new brand
Merger of Bellin and Gundersen Health forms Emplify Health
By Roz Weis
Gundersen Health System and Bellin are moving forward with a merger to become Emplify Health. The announcement was formally made back in December 2022, when the two health care systems came together as one.
The merger followed months of discussions and required regulatory reviews.
After the merger is finalized, a spokesperson with Gundersen said the health systems will
offer access to more resources and a broader network of services improving care for patients and families they serve. The two systems have served patients in their respective parts of Wisconsin,
upper Michigan, southeastern Minnesota and northeast Iowa for more than 100 years. The new brand boasts hospitals and more than 100 clinic locations in 67 cities and rural communities, including Decorah.
“We have been on a transformative journey to lean into our collective expertise and our empathy and honor our systems’ legacies as we drive into the future,” according to Gundersen Region President Heather Schimmers in a letter to patients.
The transition to Emplify Health is expected over the next several months and years, with the new brand slowly being incorporated into patient experiences. Schimmers continued,
“Change is in building what’s next, not in dismantling what was. While unifying Bellin and Gundersen under one brand will bring great efficiencies as we find ways to withstand the ever-changing landscape of healthcare, our legacies re-
main as important as ever as we acknowledge our system’s storied heritage long into the future.”
Schimmers indicated the same care with the same providers at the same locations are assured.
Depot Supervisor Laurie Hatlan of Waukon sorts
box of donations at Depot Outlet,
Decorah.
Hatlan
(Driftless Multimedia photo by Zach Jensen)
The Decorah’s Emplify Health site is located at 1830 State Highway 9 in Decorah. (submitted)
Isaac Larsen, 4 1/2-year-old-son of Laura and Tom Larsen of Charles City, made the most of his first visit to Breakfast on the Farm by feeding and milking the cow statue, swimming in the corn pool, and visiting the baby cows. His favorite thing about the entire visit was ‘eating the sausages’! (Photos by Denise Lana)
Gabby Gansen, 8, daughter of Sam and Matt Gansen of Calmar, spins the trivia wheel at the Iowa Beef Industry Council’s display.
Healing Wounds Faster.
Peterson hosts Gammel Dag
Area media forecast storms for all of Fillmore County Saturday morning, but that didn’t stop the community of Peterson from hosting its annual Gammel Dag Norwegian celebration. Attendees came from all around to join in the festivities, which included a parade, bandstand performances, local arts and crafts demonstrations and an evening street dance. No rain fell throughout the course of the event. ABOVE- This was Molly Domsten’s first Gammel Dag celebration. In this photo, the Crystal resident is making a flower crown. LEFT- Uncle Sam, portrayed by Steve Monk of Rochester, cycles his way through the parade. Monk said he dons his Uncle Sam garb and rides his unicycle in 15 parades every year, because “Uncle Sam needs cardio, too.”
The Defense Health Agency announced that TRICARE beneficiaries in Allamakee County may receive emergency prescription refills now through July 4 due to flooding.
To receive an emergency refill of prescription medications, TRICARE beneficiaries should take their prescription bottle to any TRICARE retail network pharmacy. If the bottle is unavailable or the label is dam-
Temporary prescription refill waivers expanded to Allamakee County due to flooding aged or missing, beneficiaries should contact Express Scripts, Inc., or their retail network pharmacy for assistance. To find a network pharmacy, beneficiaries can call Express Scripts at 1-877-363-1303, or search the network pharmacy locator at https://militaryrx.express-scripts.com/find-pharmacy. Beneficiaries are advised to visit Express Scripts’ Weather Alert page for updates.
The ladies of Boutique Station pose for a photo just before the Gammel Dag parade Saturday, June 22. Pictured (l-r) Boutique owner, Amy Engelhart, Deneen Krohn, Lauri Barbero and Alisa Payne.
RIGHT- Pictured (l-r): Solvi, Saren and Ceiwyn Torgerud pose for a photo with their bags full of candy after the parade. (Driftless Multimedia photos by Zach Jensen)
From your next-door neighbor to that one down on main street, a face you see around town or a name you hear over and over, these are your Driftless Neighbors.
Meet Beth Weedman
By Kathy Simpson
Residents and visitors to Harmony, Minn., may recognize Beth Weedman as the face of Harmony with her office inside the Harmony Visitor Center.
Weedman, a native of Farmington, Minn., is the new Harmony Area Chamber of Commerce Director. And with Harmony’s annual Fourth of July celebration fast-approaching, Weedman hit the ground running – lining up parade entries, hanging posters and distributing the event buttons created by Fillmore Central students.
On July 4, she’ll start the day joining the crowd at the Harmony Fire Hall during the Harmony Conservation Club Pancake Breakfast, and will stick around for music, food and fun at Selvig and Trail Head parks. She will head to the Grand Parade at 3 p.m. and enjoy fireworks at dusk. Weedman will see and be seen by thousands of parade spectators at her first major chamber duty – and have a little fun in the process!
Weedman moved to the neighborhood last July with
her husband, Mason, and son, Elwyn. She is grateful that residents have welcomed them with open arms! She is eager to get to know the community and residents, and to help promote Harmony and local businesses. Beyond her desk at the visitor center, Weedman is a skilled weaver. Her current project is creating weaving adventures, which may eventually lead to a weaving shop.
Briefly…
What do you like most about living in the Driftless: The scenery and exploring all the small towns.
Favorite Driftless location: Main Street in Harmony, of course!
Favorite Book: “The Techniques of Rug Weaving” by Peter Collingwood. Favorite scent: Kittens. Favorite ice cream flavor: I’d rather have cake, but mint chocolate chip. Favorite human: My son, Elwyn.
What do you want to be when you grow up: A weaver. Hidden talent: Drawing.
Minneapolis-based indie rock band “Bad Bad Hats” will perform July 13 in Lanesboro, Minn. (submitted)
‘Bad Bad Hats’ headline Rhythms on the Root concert
The eclectic indie band “Bad Bad Hats” are headlining the Lanesboro, Minn., Rhythms on the Root concert from 6-7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 13, at Lanesboro’s Gateway Park. The indie rock band duo from Minneapolis is celebrated for their crispy, lived-in melodies, big choruses and easy musicianship that carries across their eclectic, wide-ranging releases.
The event is hosted by Lanesboro Arts.
Tickets are on sale now through lanesboroarts.org. Seating is first come, first served general admission. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on in the grassy riverside park.
Service Notice
ROBERT (BOB) MAXSON, died May 17, 2024, at Thornton Manor in Lansing. A celebration of life service (beer & brats for Bob) will be held at T Bock’s upper level in Decorah on July 6 from 3 to 6 p.m. A short program will begin at 3:30 p.m., followed by sharing memories and stories about Bob. The event center may be accessed by the door next to T Bock’s bar on Water Street or from the rear parking lot. The front access has a handicap-accessible chair on the stairs.
Driftless area Independence Day fireworks
Hesper July 3: Fireworks at dusk
Harmony, Minn. July 4: Fireworks at dusk at North Park
Harper’s Ferry July 4: Legion Fireworks at Dusk Festina July 4: Parade and more from 10:30 a.m., fireworks at dusk Lansing July 4: Fireworks at dusk at Anderson Park
Eitzen, Minn. July 4: Family Fun Fest, fireworks at dusk
Monona July 4: Fireworks at dusk Cresco July 5: Family Fun Night 4-8 at Prairie’s Edge Nature Center, fireworks at dusk
Spillville July 6: Family games, music and more from 2 p.m., fireworks at dusk at the Riverside Park
CASTALIA TRACTOR DAYS/REVIVAL
SATURDAY, AUG. 31
AT CASTALIA CITY PARK
MUSIC + FOOD
KIDS ENTERTAINMENT
FARMERS MARKET + MORE!
3PM Tractor Parade
7PM Magic/Comedy Show with Nathan TrickyAllen
8:30PM FIREWORKS
Music by “Smoking Gun Showdown” immediately following reworks
Harmony recognized as Smart Rural Community
MiBroadband hosted a community event June 21 at the Harmony Public Library patio to celebrate MiBroadband and the community of Harmony’s Smart Rural Community Designation.
A Smart Rural Community Certificate was presented to Harmony City Council members Domingo Kingsley, Jessie Grabau and Michael Himlie. Organizers said the celebration brought together local leaders, families and friends to celebrate fiberoptic broadband access throughout the community.
The evening included a congratulatory message from U.S. Senator Tina Smith’s Senior Regional Outreach Director
Jeanne Poppe and the reading of a congratulatory letter from U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar. The Fillmore County Dairy Producers provided ice cream for the event in celebration of June Dairy Month and officials with MiBroadband held multiple demonstrations of the company’s products and services.
CASTALIA TRACTOR
WINNESHIEK COUNTY FAIR 2024 | JULY 9-13 | DECORAH
MIDWAY OPEN DAILY
Depot Outlet
Gd Luck to all fair participants!
we’re going to keep that price low.”
History
The Depot’s current location is its fifth spot since opening 51 years ago. In 1973, The Depot was founded as a nonprofit by Rev. Ward Stephenson, Rev. Paul Christianson and Mrs. Fred Grant with a simple goal that holds true today: Donate all profits back to Winneshiek County.
bodimp.com
The very first store location was a house on East Water Street but soon after moved to the town’s old train depot on Water Street, from which it garnered its name. The train depot quickly became too small for the growing nonprofit, so the store moved again to the former Iverson’s Funeral Home, and
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
Former Sunflower Child Care Center
LOCATION: 300 IA-9, DECORAH, IOWA
Parcel is approx. 3.54 acres zoned R3
Contains former childcare center building that is approx. 9,400 sq. ft. Real estate and building sold in as is, where is condition with no representations being made by the seller. Possession will be given on or before Oct. 25, 2024.
BUYER INSPECTION + WALK THRU
Building and real estate available for inspection and walk-through by appointment only from
JULY 10 - JULY 24
To schedule, contact Sunflower Child Care Center representative Merlene Brown at 563-379-5884.
OPEN HOUSE
walk-through and inspections
SATURDAY, JULY 13
SATURDAY, JULY 20 10:00AM – 12:00PM No appointments necessary
Buyers are to submit sealed cash bids, with no contingencies, to the law offices of Putnam, Thompson & Casper, 801 Commerce Drive, Decorah, Iowa, by 12 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, 2024.
Bids will be opened by the Sunflower Board of Directors on Aug. 13, 2024, and the three highest bidders will be contacted by Friday, Aug. 16, 2024 to inquire as to any interest in increasing said bid(s), and if so, shall offer the three highest bidders until Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, by 12 p.m. to increase any prior bid.
The Board of Directors shall accept the highest final bid and a standard Iowa Bar Association Purchase Agreement to be reviewed and fully executed by all parties on or before Aug. 30, 2024.
Terms of the purchase shall include payment of 10% earnest money at the time Purchase Agreement being executed, to be held in trust by seller’s attorney, Jeremy L. Thompson, of the law office of Putnam, Thompson & Casper, P.L.L.C., and balance of purchase price to be paid on or before Oct. 25, 2024. Seller reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
due to overcrowding once again in 1984, the store moved to the Brickner building on Decorah’s Railroad Street. And, in 2013, The Depot Outlet bought 510 Montgomery Street.
Community dedication
The first 25 years, the Depot Outlet was operated strictly by volunteers, but as the store’s inventory grew, it needed more workers, which meant it needed paid employees. Today, O’Mara said the Depot has about 25 employees and 35 volunteers and “wonderful surrounding communities. Donations are coming from as far away as Minneapolis.”
“Along the way, despite some struggles, somehow everyone who has ever volunteered or worked here has had enough foresight to keep it going,” she said. “We’ve had a lot of really smart and dedicated people along the way.”
Since 1973, the Depot’s membership has grown to 35 Winneshiek County church-
DECORAH
es, and in the last five decades, close to $3 million in funding has been granted or “recycled” back to those churches and other non-profit organizations in the county.
O’Mara said that today, the Depot hears and grants up to six funding requests every month. Additionally, through the Depot Outlet Lower Rate program (DOLR), the organization pays $2 per taxi ride for disabled individuals in Winneshiek County, and that program sees about 25 fares every day. And, at its annual meeting this year, The Depot’s member delegates approved a motion to grant $50 for every first-through-fourth-grade student in Winneshiek County to pay for fieldtrips during the 2024-25 academic year.
O’Mara added that recycling is another big service the Depot provides. The store recycles unsellable clothing with broken zippers, stains or rips, as well as unusable shoes, belts, purses and bags. However, the Depot
cannot recycle dirty, wet, moldy or mildewed garments, which means that if such soiled garments are dropped off at The Depot, the Depot is forced to pay to haul such garbage and all other trash, including bras, underwear and mattresses it receives, to the county landfill.
“We’re proud of our recycling program, and we recycle everything Winneshiek County Recycling will take,” she said.
“Our truck makes one run, and sometimes two, every day, to do recycling.
“It’s really gratifying, because when you look at all the good we’re doing, it all matters,” O’Mara continued. “Everything we do serves the entire county in every way. So many other places take donations and send their profits elsewhere. We’re different in that all the money stays right here in Winneshiek County, and we can actually see the results of all our work and take care of those closest to us first, and that is so important.”
Turkey Valley
The Turkey Valley baseball team (9-14, 8-9 UIC) went 3-1 in conference action last week, picking up a sweep of Postville (0-17, 0-15 UIC) Monday on the road, 9-1 and 7-0. Thursday, the Trojans hosted Clayton Ridge-Central, splitting the doubleheader with a 4-2 victory and dropping the game to 10-9. The two UIC doubleheaders sandwiched a 2-1 non-conference win over Clarkesville (1-17-1) at home Wednesday. Friday’s home game versus Riceville was cancelled due to forecasted rain.
It was an up and down week for the Trojan softball team (7-19, 7-7 UIC) with a pair of split decisions against Clayton Ridge (7-8, 7-5 UIC) and West Central (8-12, 8-6 UIC). Monday, Turkey Valley won 11-6 in game one over the Eagles, then dropped game two, 11-7. The same happened Wednesday at West Central as the Trojans took the first game 10-8 and fell 1510 in the nightcap. The home game versus Riceville was cancelled due to rain.
Waukon
Kicking off last week at home, the Waukon baseball team (815, 5-11 NEIC) swept Charles City (2-17, 2-14 NEIC) in a conference twinbill, 12-6 and 10-0. Wednesday, the Indians gave up a big first inning to MFL MarMac (22-7) in non-conference action, falling 16-9. Friday at New Hampton one game of the varsity doubleheader was completed before the rain with the Indians falling short, 4-3. Looking to get back into the win column, the Indian softball team (8-14, 2-9 NEIC) finally
Law enforcement urges public to celebrate July 4th responsibly
As Iowans celebrate Independence Day, the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) reminds all drivers, “No One’s A Good DRUNK Driver”. Thursday through Sunday, July 3-7, law enforcement across the state will be on high alert for signs of drunk driving and taking necessary steps to remove these dangers from the road.
According to a release from Decorah area law enforcement agencies, in the year 2022, a person was killed every 39 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on the nation’s roads.
Every year, the Fourth of July stands out as one of the deadliest times on Iowa roads. Over the past five years (2019-23), there have been 32 traffic fatalities during the holiday, with 50 percent of those being alcohol-related.
“If you sense any level of buzz, it is your duty to stay away from the driver’s seat. For some people, even one drink is too many to drive safely,” says GTSB Bureau Chief Brett Tjepkes. “Unfortunately, many drivers don’t realize how impaired they are or feel they’re still good to drive after consum-
Cowboy Church July 7
did it Thursday against MFL MarMac (3-21) at home, getting the 5-0 victory. That was after falling three times earlier in the week in conference action. Monday, Waukon fell to New Hampton (11-8, 3-8 NEIC) at home, 2-0, then gave up a pair of games to Decorah (8-12, 5-5 NEIC) on the road Tuesday, 10-0 and 12-2. Waukon’s game at Waverly-Shell Rock was cancelled.
Kee The Kee baseball team (2110, 10-5 UIC) took a pair of UIC games from North Fayette Valley (3-18, 3-13 UIC) Monday at home, 12-1 and 10-0. Wednesday was a special doubleheader at Waterloo’s Riverfront Stadium for the Hawks with an 8-5 victory over Mount Pleasant (17-6) and a 15-10 loss to Columbus Catholic (15-12). The Hawk softball team (1513, 10-2 UIC) fell to South Winn (17-11, 12-0 UIC) in Calmar 5-4 and 12-11. At Saturday’s tournament at Don Bosco the Hawks fell 10-2 to Hudson and 22-5 to Cascade.
Decorah
Last week started out highlighted by a 4-2 marathon win for the Decorah baseball team (16-12, 11-5 NEIC) over New Hampton (21-5, 14-2 NEIC). Game two against the Chickasaws was also close resulting in a 3-2 Viking loss. Tuesday, the Decorah offense struggled to get momentum, falling to Independence (9-17) at home, 12-0. Rain postponed Friday’s doubleheader versus Waverly-Shell Rock to Friday, July 5, at 5 p.m.
The Vikings softball team (812, 5-5 NEIC) remains in the middle of the league after picking up a pair of wins Tuesday over Waukon (8-14, 2-9 NEIC). Decorah swept the twinbill 10-0 and 12-2. Decorah was limited on the basepaths Wednesday as they hosted Dike-New Hartford (17-8) as Vikes wore replica North Winn jerseys and fell 10-0. The game scheduled for Friday at Mason City was cancelled. The Vikes did compete in Saturday’s tournament at Don Bosco, falling 10-0 to Davenport North and 13-1 to Dubuque Wahlert.
South Winn
Striving to win the Upper Iowa Conference, the South Winn baseball team (18-8, 15-2 UIC) swept Clayton Ridge-Central (7-14, 7-8 UIC) Monday on the road, 6-1 and 9-0. Thursday night was a big one to stay on top of the league standings as the Warriors split a twinbill with MFL MarMac (22-7, 14-3 UIC) who sits second. SW won game one 3-2 and fell 7-3 in game two. The Warrior softball team went 5-0 last week which included a pair of conference doubleheaders. Monday, South Winn defeated Central Elkader (1-17, 1-11 UIC) on the road 10-1 and 19-0. All eyes were on Calmar Wednesday as the twinbill with Kee defined the UIC leader with the Warriors coming from behind in both games to win 5-4 and 12-11. Thursday’s non-conference game versus Oelwein took nine innings to decide the winner as SW claimed the 5-4 victory.
Softball pairings released
Regional softball pairings for all five classes were released last week.
Decorah is in Class 4A. The Vikes will be at Charles City Thursday, July 11, at 7 p.m., in the first round of Region 7 action. The winner will face Clear Creek-Amana Saturday, July 9, at 7 p.m., in Clear Creek. The regional championship is Tuesday, July 16, at 7 p.m., at the highest remaining seed. Teams on the other side of the bracket are Waverly-Shell Rock, Marion and Western Dubuque.
South Winn is in Class 2A Region 7 and hosts Postville in round one Monday, July 8, in Calmar at 7 p.m. The winner advances to the regional quarterfinal at Wapsie Valley against the Warriors Wednesday, July 10, at 7 p.m. The regional semifinal will also be at Wapsie Val-
ley Friday, July 12, at 7 p.m., with the regional final scheduled for Monday, July 15, at 7 p.m., at the highest remaining seed. Other teams in the bracket include Osage, Central Springs, Denver, Columbus Catholic, Lisbon, Jesup and Maquoketa Valley.
Turkey Valley and Kee are in Class 1A Region 7 and will play the first round Monday, July 8, at 7 p.m. The Trojans will be at West Central, while the Hawks will host Central Elkader. The winner of the Turkey Valley/ West Central game will face Edgewood-Colesburg in Edgewood. Central City will host the winner of the Kee/Central Elkader game in the regional quarterfinal Wednesday, July 10, at 7 p.m. Semifinal games will be held at either Edgewood-Colesburg (for TV) or
North Linn (for Kee). The regional finale is Monday, July 15, at 7 p.m., at the highest remaining seed. Also competing in Region 7 are East Buchanan, Dunkerton, Don Bosco, Clayton Ridge, Starmont, North Linn and Central City.
Waukon is in Class 3A Region 7 and will play in New Hampton against the Chickasaws Thursday, July 11, at 7 p.m. The winner advances to play the winner of the Independence and Oelwein game on Saturday, July 13, in New Hampton, the regional final will be held Tuesday, July 16, at the highest remaining seed. Also in Region 7 are Wahlert Catholic, North Fayette Valley, West Delaware and Crestwood. State softball will be held in Fort Dodge July 22-26.
Baseball postseason starts Saturday
Postseason brackets were fully released last week with action already under way for Class 1A and 2A.
South Winn, Turkey Valley and Kee are all in the Class 1A District 9, and will play Saturday, July 6. The Trojans will take the field against Riceville in New Albin at 5 p.m. Kee will play game two in New Albin against Edgewood-Colesburg. The winners will face each other Tuesday, July 9, in New Albin, with the game beginning at 7 p.m. The Warriors will face Clarksville to open the postseason at 7 p.m., in Calmar. The district semifinal is Tuesday, July 9, in Calmar at 7 p.m., against the win-
ing alcohol. That’s why GTSB launched a new campaign this year to remind Iowans, No One’s a Good DRUNK Driver.”
Lots of planning goes into Fourth of July festivities – plan for a sober driver. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, be proactive — take away the keys, find a safe ride home or offer a couch.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau works with city, county, state and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce death and injury on Iowa’s roadways using federally-funded grants.
ner of Nashua-Plainfield and Dunkerton. The district final is Saturday, July 13, at 7 p.m. in Calmar. The District 8 champion faces the District 7 winner Tuesday, July 16, at a location to be decided.
Waukon is Class 2A District 6 and will host Postville in the district quarterfinal Saturday, July 6, at 7 p.m. A win would put the Indians in the district semifinal versus Starmont in Monona Tuesday, July 9, at 5 p.m. The winner advances to the district final Saturday, July 13, at 7 p.m., at a location to be decided. The substate final between the District 5 and 6 winners is set for Tuesday, July 16, at 7 p.m.
Decorah is in Class 3A and will host Independence in the Substate 3 quarterfinal Friday, July 12, at 7 p.m. A win would advance the Vikings to play either Western Dubuque or Charles City Monday, July 15, at 7 p.m. The substate final will be held Wednesday, July 17, at 7 p.m. The state baseball tournament runs July 22-26. Class 1A and 2A will be at Merchant Park in Carroll while Class 3A and 4A will compete at Duane Banks Field in Iowa City. The Class 1A and 3A quarterfinals are July 22, semifinals July 24 and championship game will take place July 26.
The once-a-month Cherry Grove Cowboy Service will be held Sunday, July 7, with musicians singing at 5:45 p.m., and the service at 6 p.m. Lunch will follow at the church.
Cowboy Church is nondenominational and another way of spreading God’s message through music. The service includes a mix of country, Christian country, cowboy and southern gospel and bluegrass music.
Musicians are welcome and should contact Cindy Seabright at seabright.cindy@gmail.com or 507-272-1682 one week prior to the first Sunday-of-themonth service. The Cherry Grove United Methodist Church is located at 18183 160th Street in the small community of Cherry Grove, rural Spring Valley, Minn. Cherry Grove Church is handicap accessible.
Kee sophomore pitcher Addison Winters struck out 14 batters in the doubleheader at South Winn Wednesday.
(Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)
The Bulldog runner, Parker Kuehl, slides safely into home as South Winn’s Kole Hageman snags the throw high in the air during Thursday’s UIC doubleheader. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)
Farmers can receive instant pest alerts via free phone app
Crop farmers and others involved with crop production can receive instant updates on the latest insect pest issues in Iowa.
The Iowa Pest Alert Network provides short, timely updates via text messaging to farmers and crop consultants, agronomists and extension who advise farmers. This free, user-friendly service provides timely scouting information about pests in your area.
phone number. Sign up by visiting the Pest Alert Network website, at pestalerts.extension. iastate.edu.
Celebrate contemporary folk art at Vesterheim’s national exhibition
Find out what’s happening today in Norwegian folk art at “The National Norwegian-American Folk Art Exhibition”, a judged show at Vesterheim, from June 8-July 27.
“These short bursts of information are meant to reach people wherever they are, and they can use links in the alerts to access relevant scouting information,” added Erin Hodgson, professor and extension entomologist at Iowa State.
Recent pest alerts cover topics such as scouting for bean leaf beetle, black cutworm in emerged corn, as well as alfalfa weevil.
The website provides links to information about key pests in the Midwest, degree day mapping, regional updates and supplemental publications. There is also an archive listing of past pest alerts.
All a user needs is a cell
• Teach business courses aligned with business, finance, marketing, and management standards for the State of lowa.
• Develop and manage a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) in Business, providing opportunities for leadership, competition, and professional development.
• Participate in professional development and ongoing training to maintain expertise in business education, including staying up-to-date on new trends and best practices.
• Develop and implement lesson plans, assessments, and curricula that align with the Iowa Teaching Standards and Danielson Domains.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress, grades, and attendance per school policies and procedures.
REQUIREMENTS
•
We
“A needs assessment published by the North Central Soybean Research Program in 2021 determined that farmers and the industry are really interested in receiving real-time alerts about pests,” said Ashley Dean, extension specialist in entomology with ISU Extension and Outreach. “Farmers and the people who advise them are often out in the fields during the day, so text messages might be more efficient than emails.”
The user can customize the service to receive specific pest alerts based on specific pests, or per region of Iowa.
The service was created in 2022 and is free to subscribe with a mobile phone number.
For more information, Ashley Dean can be reached at 515447-3766 or adean@iastate. edu; Erin Hodgson is available at ewh@iastate.edu.
This biennial exhibition celebrates techniques inspired by traditional Norwegian folk art by encouraging and inspiring emerging and established folk artists to develop their craft. It features woodworking, knifemaking, metalwork, rosemaling and weaving and includes stories from the artists about their pieces – the craft and inspiration behind the artwork.
As part of the exhibition, artists compete for ribbons. Judges award blue, red and white ribbons representing points that accumulate over successive exhibitions toward a Vesterheim
The National Norwegian-American Folk Art Exhibition showcases the self-expression of contemporary artists who create folk art rooted in Norwegian traditions. (submitted photo)
gold medal. Judges also present honorable mentions and Best of Show Awards. Visitors vote for People’s Choice Awards. Ribbons are placed next to winning
• Collaborate with other teachers, administrators, and staff to promote student success and achievement, including through interdisciplinary projects and initiatives.
• Incorporate technology and other innovative teaching methods to engage and motivate students, including those with diverse learning needs and backgrounds.
• Build opportunities for work-based learning through internships and apprenticeships, and support and guide students in pursuing these opportunities.
• Foster a positive and supportive classroom environment that promotes student learning, growth, and success and upholds the school and district’s values and mission.
entries on July 25, opening day of Decorah’s Nordic Fest celebration. For more information, call 563-382-9681.
June 29, or until the position is filled as provided for in the Agreement between the Decorah Community School District and the Decorah Education Association 2023-2024. The Decorah Community School District is an EEO/AA employer.
playing opportunities with the fall musical and spring solo and small ensemble clinic and state festival.
REQUIREMENTS
• Proven experience as a collaborative pianist, preferably within a school or choral setting.
• Knowledge of a wide range of musical styles and genres.
• Excellent sight-reading skills.
• Ability to quickly learn and perform new pieces of music.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• A high degree of reliability and professionalism.
• Flexibility to accommodate the varying schedule of rehearsals and performances.
• A bachelor’s degree in music or a related field is preferred. Decorah High School
‘There is a Field’ performance in Lanesboro’s Gateway Park
Lanesboro Arts and Catie Glynn’s A.R.T (Audacious Raw Theater) will present “There is a Field”, July 6-7 at Gateway Park in Lanesboro, Minn. The A.R.T. performance will focus on parenthood, procreation, and reproductive justice.
A.R.T. shows are always original co-devised collections that celebrate the raw creativity of the featured artists. Performers include Katie Berger Wood, “There is a Field” (photo courtesy Eye Prize Marketing)
Master Gardener Training to be offered this fall Register by Aug. 12
The application window opens July 12 for the 2024 Fall Master Gardener training cohort, which will be offered in 29 counties or extension regions.
Iowans wishing to become Master Gardener volunteers choose a county to complete training through, participate in online learning modules and attend at least four in-person training sessions organized by the county office. After passing the final exam, trainees put their knowledge to work with a 40hour internship in their training county.
Applicants have from July 12-Aug. 12 to apply for the fall session. Counties are seeking participants of all backgrounds and experience levels who desire to grow their horticultural knowledge and serve their communities. Training for the fall session begins Sept. 3.
“Many people have misconceptions about what the Master Gardener program truly is,” said Alicia Herzog, Master Gardener Statewide Coordinator with ISU Extension and Outreach. “The Master Gardener program is about more than just learning how to grow your best garden, although you will learn that as well. Trainees use knowledge gained in training to grow food for those in need, partner with area organizations to design green spaces, and
present programs in their local communities.”
The Iowa Master Gardener Program is a year-round volunteer service organization that utilizes university-trained volunteers who use research-based horticulture and gardening knowledge and practices to educate people and coordinate projects that promote healthy communities.
For more information, call the Winneshiek County Extension Office at 563-382-2949.
Eric Decker, Juliana Frick, Hannah Gaff, Catherine Glynn, Nicholette Routhier, Hilary Williams and Jerome York.
Performances will be held July 6 at 7 p.m. and July 7 at 5 p.m. Tickets are available at lanesboroarts.org. Audience members should bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the show in the natural surroundings of Gateway Park.
Celebrating Laura
ABOVE- Laura Ingalls Wilder presenter Julie Miller demonstrated pioneer sewing techniques at Laura Day in Burr Oak Saturday, June 22. RIGHTOld-fashioned butter making was one of the activities at Laura Day. Pictured are Cora Gossman of Bluffton, Harper Ryan of Burr Oak and Oaklee Ryan of Burr Oak. (Photos by Roz Weis) More Laura Day photos were published in the June 27 Public Opinion newspaper.
The annual Airing Out the Quilts event is planned July 11 from 3-7 p.m. (submitted photo)
Airing Out the Quilts July 11
Quilts will adorn neighborhoods of Decorah Thursday, July 11, as the Decorah Area Quilters and the NorthEast Iowa Quilters’ Guild sponsor the fifth annual “Airing Out the Quilts” event – a drive-by quilt show from 3-7 p.m.
All homes in Decorah are invited to display quilts– over fences, on porch rails, from rain gutters, wherever works! The NEIQG began Airing out the Quilts when forced to cancel their biennial quilt show in October 2020 – and worked to find an alternate venue to display
member quilts. Colorful quilts of members and friends will be seen throughout the community. The event is free, and the public is invited to drive, bike or walk the route to enjoy these quilts. While attendees are asked not to enter porches and private areas, they are welcome to move near to examine the quilts. All are encouraged to display quilts. To be included on the map, contact Mike Ellingsen at 507-602-0322. Maps will be available at www.neiqg.com, on the NEIQG and Decorah Area Quilters Facebook pages and at the Decorah Chamber of Commerce.
Find a health care provider you feel comfortable talking to openly about your sexual health.
If you don't feel your regular provider can provide the best care in this area, consider finding a second provider that is knowledgeable, inclusive and affirming who will provide you the best sexual health resources.
Make prevention and testing part of your journey.
Getting tested for HIV is the only way to know your status. And knowing your HIV status helps you choose options to stay healthy!
Practice safer sex.
Internal and external condoms can prevent HIV and other STIs when used properly, and using an appropriate lubricant is also helpful! You can also choose sexual activities with a lower likelihood of passing on an infection. Get in care. Stay in care.
If you’re living with HIV, getting and keeping an undetectable viral load helps you s tay healthy and prevents transmission to your sex partners.
Quilters feature ‘All That Glitters’ July 9
in Decorah. After a welcome and introductions, members will be revealing their “All That Glitters” projects – a project that features the challenging fabric gold lamé. Gold lamé is not typically used in quilting, so interest is high in how the creative members approached the months-long challenge.
The Decorah Area Quilters meet at ArtHaus at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Each meeting will consist of a brief welcome and introductions, show-and-tell, a Q&A session and time to talk with other quilters. There is a nominal fee to attend. All are welcome. For more information, contact Mike Ellingsen at 507-6020322, or Jarret Johnson at 563419-6952.
