Library, ArtHaus announce Coffee and Creativity programs
Decorah Public Library and ArtHaus willl hold another Coffee and Creativity program this month. The series is designed to help build community while being creative. Participants may make simple craft projects while chatting over coffee from 10-11:30 a.m. the first and third Tuesdays of the month. Participants will make tiedye T-shirts on June 17 at Mary
Christopher Park. Sessions will be led by ArtHaus instructors. The public is invited to attend, regardless of previous experience or artistic ability. The program is free, and all materials are provided. For more information, email Zach Row-Heyveld at Decorah Public Library at zrow-heyveld@decorahlibrary. org or call 563-382-3717.
ROSSVILLE
The
Fraud, scam prevention presentation June 13
Roger Huinker, a Northeast RSVP volunteer trained by the Iowa Insurance Division, will be presenting an Iowa Fraud Fighters seminar at 1:30 p.m. June 13 at the Senior Citizen Hospitality Center — 806 River St. in Decorah. He will be joined by local law enforcement, staff from Wright Way Computers and/or local bank employees. According to the FBI, scams targeting individuals age 60 and older caused more than $3.4 billion in losses during 2023 — an increase of approximately 11 percent from 2022. The average victim of elder fraud in 2023 lost $33,915. The hour-long seminar will teach consumers how to shield their savings from scammers
and fraudulent investment offers. Presenters will share tips on recognizing the different ways people are scammed, how to report fraud and share stories of people who have lost their life savings to fraud or scams. Iowa Fraud Fighter seminars are being presented by Northeast Iowa RSVP volunteers with assistance from local sponsors. Northeast Iowa RSVP matches volunteers age 55 and older with opportunities to serve at non-profits in Allamakee, Howard and Winneshiek counties. Businesses and organizations interested in hosting a Fraud Fighters seminar may contact Deana Hageman at 563-2775181 or rsvp@decorahlibrary. org.
MEET THE DAIRY COWS: Exploring the 7 top dairy cow breeds in the U.S. during June Dairy Month
When it comes to dairy farming, not all dairy cows are created equal. Each breed has unique qualities that set them apart in terms of appearance, origin, milk production and more.
The seven most prominent American dairy cow breeds currently found in the United States are Holstein, Jersey, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Ayrshire, Red and White Holstein, and Milking Shorthorn.
American Dairy Association Northeast
Jersey
Jerseys are known for their brown coloring, large expressive eyes and long eyelashes. They originated from the Island of Jersey, a small British Island in the English Channel. They’re small in size, weighing about 1,000 pounds in maturity.
Jerseys have rich, creamy milk that is high in butterfat, making it perfect for cheese, butter and ice cream production.
FUN FACT: In the 1930s, the Borden Co. introduced a Jersey, Elsie the Cow, as their cartoon mascot.
Ayrshire
Ayrshire cows have reddish-brown mahogany-colored spots on a white body. They originated from the county of Ayrshire in Scotland and are considered medium in size, weighing about 1,200 pounds in maturity.
They’re hardy cows that can produce high-quality milk with a moderate fat content. They’re also known for their ability to adapt to a wide range of farming conditions.
Brown Swiss
Brown Swiss cows are graybrown colored. They originated from Switzerland, and many dairy historians consider this breed to be the oldest of all types of milk cows. They are large in size, weighing about 1,500 pounds in maturity.
Brown Swiss are known for producing a large quantity of milk, particularly prized for its high protein content, making it ideal for cheese-making.
FUN FACT: Originally from Scotland, Ayrshire cows are often called the “aristocrats” of dairy cows due to their elegance and their ability to produce high-quality milk on rugged terrain.
FUN FACT: Brown Swiss cows in Switzerland are taken to high mountain meadows during the summer. The cows wear large cow bells so farmers can find them in foggy mountain pastures.
Holstein
Holsteins have black and white patches – the iconic dairy cow! Originating from The Netherlands, they were first imported into the U.S. in the 1850s. They are large in size, weighing about 1,500 pounds in maturity.
Holsteins are the superstars of milk production, known for producing the highest quantity of milk compared to other breeds. A single Holstein averages about nine gallons of milk per day. This might be why they are by far the most common dairy cow in the U.S. making up over 90% of the dairy population!
FUN FACT: No two Holsteins have the same spots, they are as unique as fingerprints!
Red and White Holsteins look similar to their black-andwhite relatives but with red and white patches. They originated in the U.S. and Canada when farmers started breeding for the recessive red hair color trait of Holsteins. They’re large in size, weighing about 1,400 pounds in maturity.
Like the traditional Holstein, the red and white variety is a prolific milk producer. Their milk output rivals the blackand-white Holsteins, but their coloring is rarer.
Guernsey
Guernsey cows are brown or fawn colored with white spots of various sizes on the body or face, originating from the Isle of Guernsey, a tiny island in the English Channel. They’re medium in size, weighing about 1,200 pounds in maturity.
They’re known for producing “golden” milk that has a rich yellowish hue due to its high levels of beta-carotene. Their milk also has higher amounts of butterfat and protein.
FUN FACT: Since the 1950s, Golden Guernsey trademark milk has been sold in the U.S. and Canada as a premium product.
Milking Shorthorn
Milking Shorthorns are red, white or roan (a mix of red and white) in color. They originated in Northeastern England in the valley of the Tees Rive and are medium is size, weighing about 1,100 pounds in maturity.
They produce moderate amounts of milk with a balanced fat-to-protein ratio, making their milk versatile for various dairy products.
FUN FACT: The Milking Shorthorn breed was one of the first to enter the U.S., early in the 1780s.
These seven American dairy cow breeds each bring something unique to the table, from high milk yields to rich, creamy butterfat.
Whether it’s the iconic Holstein, the golden milk of the Guernsey or the historical Brown Swiss, dairy farmers and consumers alike benefit from the diversity of these remarkable animals.
FUN FACT: This type of cow is unique as it is the only dairy cow recognized by the Purebred Cattle Association as purebred even though it can have genetics from several other breeds of dairy cows.
The health benefits of dairy
A healthy diet is comprised of a mix of nutrient-rich foods and beverages. The United States Department of Agriculture includes dairy as part of its MyPlate program,which recommends foods and serving sizes of those foods from different food groups. For the purposes of the USDA guidelines, dairy includes milk, cheese, yogurt, lactose-free milk, and fortified soy milk and yogurt. However, dairy also may include cream cheese, sour cream, cream, and butter.
Recommendations regarding dairy consumption depend on age, gender, height, weight, and physical activity. Around two to three cups per day may be advised. However, the USDA says about 90 percent of Americans are not getting enough dairy. Dairy plays an important role in personal health. Here’s a look at why dairy is a key component of a healthy diet.
Dairy supports bone health
Calcium comprises the main mineral in the bones of the body. Healthline advises that dairy is often the best source of calcium in the human diet. Evidence indicates that dairy can help improve bone density, reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis, and lower fracture risk in older adults. Dairy, when consumed with calcium-rich leafy greens and legumes, ensures people get enough calcium to affect bone improvements.
Dairy improves vitamin D levels
About one billion people across the globe have vitamin D deficiency, while 50 percent of the population has vitamin D insufficiency, reports the Cleveland Clinic. Vitamin D is produced in the body through exposure to the sun and also comes from dietary sources. Vitamin D is a nutrient the body needs, along with calcium, to build strong bones and keep them healthy. Dairy products are often fortified with vitamin D to work in conjunction with calcium for good health.
Dairy helps to sustain energy levels
Dairy provides a source of high-quality protein and essential amino acids. Protein can curb hunger and help a person feel satiated longer. Dairy can help a person maintain fitness performance and may also be used for weight management.
Dairy promotes gut health
Fermented dairy and foods in the dairy group that contain live cultures can add beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract to foster a healthier microbiota, according to U.S. Dairy. Cheeses, yogurt and kefir are fermented foods. These foods may improve digestion and gut barrier function.
Boost the immune system
Dairy contains protein, vi-
Cheesy Chicken Tortellini Bake
There’s no denying the appeal of dairy in home cooking. Dairy helps make foods silky, creamy and more satisfying. Cheeses in particular can make meals more rich and more flavorful, so much so that they can be truly addictive.
Layering cheesy goodness can set any meal apart. That’s just what happens with “Cheesy Chicken Tortellini Bake” from “The Pampered Chef® Stoneware Inspirations” (The Pampered Chef® Ltd.) by The Pampered Chef® Test Kitchens. Freshly cooked chicken and homemade tortellini can be used for this comforting casserole, but cubed, pre-cooked chicken and refrigerated tortellini also works.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 2 tablespoons snipped fresh basil leaves or 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
Crumb topping
1 ounce grated fresh Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
1 cup fresh bread crumbs
Preheat oven to 400°F. For pasta mixture, chop onion. In a 4-quart casserole, heat oil over medium-high heat; add onion and garlic pressed with a garlic press. Cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes or until onion is tender. Stir in pasta sauce, tortellini, chicken, milk, water, peas, and black pepper. Heat until mixture just comes to a boil; remove from heat. Stir basil into pasta mixture. Meanwhile, for crumb topping, grate Parmesan cheese.
tamin A, zinc, and selenium, which work together to strengthen the body’s immune system. Dairy contains all nine of the essential amino acids that are responsible for supporting the immune system and building and repairing tissue, says Dairy Farmers of America.
Those who want to incorporate more dairy into their diets are urged to choose low- and non-fat versions, which do not contain as much saturated fat as
full-fat dairy. Saturated fat can contribute to elevated “bad” cholesterol (LDL) numbers and increase the risk of heart disease. Harvard Health suggests no more than 20 grams of saturated fat per day for the average 2,000-calorie diet, making low-fat dairy options a smarter choice.
Dairy is an important food group for good health that helps to strengthen bones and the immune system.
Place butter in a small microwave-safe dish, microwave on high 30-45 seconds or until melted. Stir in bread crumbs and cheese; mix well. Spoon pasta mixture into a baking dish; sprinkle with crumb topping. Bake 15-20 minutes or until edges are bubbly and topping is golden brown.
Tip: Alfredo sauce in a jar can be found in the pasta sauce section of the supermarket. Do not substitute refrigerated Alfredo sauce; it may separate and curdle during baking.
Moving Sale
OPENINGS
GUESS
Answers will be posted on the Decorah Leader’s Facebook page.
6. Small fruits that grow on bushes
8. The shade of the eggs laid by the American robin
10. Type of trousers made from denim or dungaree cloth
12. Has blue or green veins and is ripened with edible mold cultures
13. Individually portioned baked product
team(2)
Eighth planet from the sun
Large size and long, ornate tail
Unobstructed view upward from the surface
Haying equipment demonstration planned at NICC Dairy Center register, contact the Fayette County Extension Office at 563-425-3331; or the Winneshiek County Extension Office at 563-382-2949.
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, in partnership with Northeast Iowa Community College, will be hosting an equipment demonstration field day June 23, focusing on hay equipment — demonstrations will take place from 10 a.m. and the field day will run through 4 p.m. The event will be held on-site at the NICC Dairy Center, located at 1527 Highway 150 in Calmar. A free lunch will be provided, and onsite registration will be available the day of the event.
Shelby Gruss, an Iowa State University state forage specialist, will lead a general session during the provided lunch, covering topics of forage selection, fertilization and harvesting. ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomists and beef specialists will also be on site for the duration of the program, available to visit with attendees and address production questions. For more information or to
Flavorful fungi prove profitable for young mushroom hunter
(The complete version of this article published in the June 5 Decorah Leader, find past editions of the newspaper at decorahleader.com)
Young Hans Propson has been hiking the woods for less than an hour, when he spots the often-elusive quarry – edible wild mushrooms specifically a supply of golden oyster mushrooms.
The 11-year-old Decorah boy is believed to be the youngest licensed forager in the state, and he’s taking on this year’s late mushroom season like a pro.
The young forager has learned plenty of interesting facts about the unique characteristics of the different mushroom species he seeks. Morels, for instance, are a highly sought-after variety due to their short season. They have a honeycomb-like appearance and have a hollow interior. Oyster mushrooms are widely consumed and easily recognizable with their yellow, oyster-shaped caps. Gills run down the stem of the oyster varieties.
Every year in the spring, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Ames offers classes for those who desire to become certified to legally sell wild-harvested mushrooms in Iowa. Last year, Hans attended the workshop with his parents and asked if he could enroll in Iowa State’s certification workshop, which covers identifying and distinguishing the mushrooms from lookalikes — such as varieties of false morel mushrooms, which closely resembled the highly-sought fungi but can be poisonous, according to information from Iowa State University.
TUESDAY, JUNE 178:30 a.m. Machinery Consignment Auction. Sale held at Sweeney Auction Service Waukon. Sweeney Auction Service. www. sweeneyauctionservice. com Waukon. 563-5682464.
THURSDAY, JUNE 19
- Online Auction - Kruse Machinery Liquidation Auction, ends June 19. Preview June 16, 102pm, Meadowlark Rd., Decorah. Cedar Valley Property Solutions. www. cvpsauctions.com. 641228-4262.
SATURDAY, JUNE 2110 a.m. Real Estate Auction. Protivin American Legion Post 605, Owner. Shindelar Auction Service, LLC. Protivin. 563569-8235. www.auctionsgo.com
Hans Propson proudly displays his Iowa wild-harvested mushroom certification.
RIGHT - Golden oyster mushrooms are found growing wild on a tree trunk on the Propson farm.(Photos by Roz Weis)
HSNEI Announces Annual Tails and Treasures online auction
The
at 9 a.m.
7 and run through 9 p.m. June 15. Funds raised will be used to purchase essential food and enrichment for HSNEI’s cats and dogs. Last year, the event provided 7,054 lbs. of dry food, 1,914 lbs. of special-diet/wet food and $2,645.75 of enrichment treats and toys. This year, the humane society’s goal is to reach $25,000, which would pay for 80 percent of the society’s annual food and enrichment costs.
“We have established partnerships with distributors and amazing local businesses, like
Lulu and BBs Pet Supplies, to reduce our cost and allow us to provide a consistent nutrition program,” said Ries Magnuson, HSNEI executive director. “With the community’s help, we can continue making a positive impact on the lives of the animals in our care and in our community.” For more information about sponsorship opportunities or to donate auction items, email treasurer@hsnei.org or call (563)277-0012. Auction winners may collect their items at HSNEI or at library locations in Postville, Lime Springs, Murphy Helweg, Volga, Spillville or Cresco.
Huber-Gaertner Reunion
to be held June 15
The annual Mass and Huber-Gaertner Reunion will take place at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, June 15 at St. Anthony’s Smallest Church near Festina and will be followed by Mass at noon. Rev. Ivan Nienhaus is to be the celebrant. Attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs. In case of rain, Mass will be held at Our Lady of Seven Dolors in Festina. A potluck picnic will take place in the Parish Hall in Festina, following Mass. Attendees are asked to bring a dish to pass, tableware and their own beverage. Copies of this year’s newsletter will be available at the reunion for $1.50 each — copies of the
2025 newsletter as well as previous newsletters are available by mail for $3 each. Reunion participants are asked to send family news items — births, weddings, deaths, anniversaries — which have occurred between June of 2024 and June of 2025 for inclusion in the newsletter. Newsletter items may be forwarded to Victoria Lansing by calling 602-943-4782, emailing viclansing@outlook. com or sent by mail to the Saint Anthony Chapel Reunion Committee at 833 E. Cochise Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85020. Items for the newsletter must be received by June 3.
Robey Memorial Library offering Pinterest Projects Class
Service Notice
ELWYN “JR.” DOTZENROD, 82, of Decorah, died Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Wellington Place in Decorah. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 10 at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 307 West Main Street, Decorah, with Father Donald Hertges presiding. Burial will follow at Stavanger Cemetery in Ossian. There will be no visitation Tuesday morning before the Mass.
Season previews for Decorah and South Winneshiek High School baseball and softball teams were featured in the June 5 Decorah Leader. Find it at: DecorahLeader.com
Follow all the action each week on the Decorah Leader sports pages in print and online, call 563-382-4221 or visit DecorahLeader.com to subscribe!
Your Path To Healing
NEI3A launches dementia service consultations
Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging recently announced the launch of Dementia Friendly Iowa’s Dementia Service Specialist Consultations. The free consultations are designed to provide personalized support, guidance and resources to individuals and families navigating dementia. Each consultation is to be led by a trained dementia service specialist who will assess the current situation — including symptoms and stage of dementia — help develop a clear care plan and provide education on dementia progression, safety strategies and communication tips in addition to tools and techniques to support caregivers. Families may also receive information on local resources, such as support groups. Each session concludes with a customized roadmap and referrals.
Driftless Fiber Arts Collective presents ‘The Violet Collective’ exhibition
The Driftless Fiber Arts Collective of Lanesboro, Minnesota will present “The Violet Collective: A Creative Call to CommUnity”, a group exhibition opening with a celebratory event on Friday, June 20.
This group exhibition features the creative works of Lanesboro residents and neighbors. Participants were invited to explore the beauty of crossing divides by creating artwork that combines red and blue, literally and symbolically, to unite in “violet.” This project was inspired by the Violet Protest, a national public art project challenging political polarization.
Submissions for The Driftless Fiber Arts Collective’s Violet Collective were open to all creatives working in any medium, with an emphasis on fiber arts. The exhibition will be on view at the collective until September.
The exhibition will open June 20 with a celebration at 6:30 p.m. At 7 p.m., participating artists and members of the collective will present, followed by art activities and light refreshments. Sales of artwork made during the opening will support the Driftless Fiber Arts Collective’s programs.
space and expand its reach and mission to a variety of activities around play, craft and words. From what was once a quilt shop, the Driftless Fiber Arts Collective has blossomed into a welcoming space for creative community connection, peer learning and interactive projects to challenge the hand and the mind.
About the Driftless Fiber Arts Collective
In January 2025 several women came together to imagine how to take an already hospitable and functional makers
Driftless Fiber Arts Collective is located at 108 Coffee Street East, Lanesboro.
Learn more at driftlesscollective.org.
Violet Circles (Photo courtesy of Driftless Fiber Arts Collective)
