June 17, 2025 by Decorah Leader

To learn more about Paws

2025 Lawn Chair Night concert line-up revealed

Decorah is home to a summer lineup of free, live music thanks to organizers of Lawn Chair Night 2025.

The downtown streets will heat up with musical performances every Thursday night from June through August.

The series is made possible by Downtown Decorah Betterment, Visit Decorah and Impact Coffee, with contributions from many area sponsors.

Those attending the Thursday night concerts are encouraged to bring their own lawn chair or blanket, pick up some food from nearby eateries and enjoy the weekly entertainment options.

The summer concert series got underway with a performance by Sarah Morris Thursday, June 12 on Washington Street.

June

July 3: Jack Klatt Trio at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

July 10: Songwriters Round with Michelle Ptacek, Brennan Henry and Michael McElrath at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

July 17: Nordic Dancers at 7 p.m. in front of the Winneshiek County Courthouse

July 24: Happy Nordic Fest – live music all weekend (visit nordicfest.com for a full schedule)

July 31: Mike Munson at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Aug. 7: Blake Shaw at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Aug. 13: Special performance by Driftless Wind Ensemble at 7 p.m. on the Vesterheim Museum patio

Aug. 14: The Bird Hunters at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Aug. 21: Jason Walsmith at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Aug. 28: A welcome back to Luther College concert featuring Driftless Jazz at 6 p.m. on Washington Street

Pulpit to Pulpit 5K set for July 4

Annual race supports community causes

“He’s given me the I can back”

community for a day of fitness, fun and fundraising. Decorah’s annual Pulpit to Pulpit run/walk is scheduled to return the morning of Friday, July 4. The yearly event, hosted by Pulpit Rock Brewing Company, will begin at 8 a.m. Runners, walkers, families and dogs can choose between a timed 5K and a non-timed 1-mile fun run/ walk. Both circuits start and end at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company in Decorah.

Registration may be completed online at runsignup.com/ Race/IA/Decorah/PulpitToPulpit for $30. Information on donations and volunteer roles is also available through the website. The annual run will once

again support a pair of local organizations. This year, funds will go toward the Greater Area Pantry of Calmar, which helps address fight food insecurity in the region, and RSVP of Northeast Iowa AmeriCorps Seniors, a program which connects older adults with volunteer opportunities that make a difference in various communities.

“We’re thrilled to bring everyone together again for a great cause,” said race organizer Steph Hughes. “Whether you’re racing for a PR, enjoying a stroll with your dog or just soaking up the community spirit, you’re helping support the people who need it most.” Participants may pick up T-shirts and number bibs from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, July 3 at Pulpit Rock Brewing or after 7 a.m. the day of the run. Timing will be provided by True Time Racing Services for the 5K.

Sarah Morris opened Lawn Chair Night 2025 Thursday, June 12 on Washington Street in Decorah. (Decorah Leader photo by Zach Jensen)

Actor Duffy Hudson presents two programs at Robey Memorial Library

Join Broadway and film actor Duffy Hudson for two programs at Waukon’s Robey Memorial Library on Wednesday, June 25 that are sure to captivate and

entertain audiences young and old alike.

Beginning at 10:30 a.m., Hudson will lead “Summer Explorers: The Magic of Dr. Seuss”, an enchanting journey through the timeless tales accompanied by thrilling magic tricks. Experience your favorite classics like never before in this dynamic show featuring “And to Think I Saw It on Mulberry Street”, “The Sneetches”, “The Zax”, “The Big Brag” and “What Was I Scared Of?” Hudson will lead the “Live & Learn Program: Houdini – the Life & Legend” beginning at 1:30 p.m. Step into the mesmerizing world of The Great Harry Houdini with Hudson’s captivating one-

Namoli Brennet to perform concert

Namoli Brennet will be performing a concert live at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21 at Pulpit Rock Brewing — 207 College Dr. in Decorah — in celebration of Pride month. A $15 suggested donation will be accepted.

Vasile to hold songwriting workshop

The public is invited to join Paul Vasile for a songwriting workshop from 1-4 p.m. July 12 at the Center for Belonging Folk School in Decorah. No musical experience is required. Participants will be invited to explore the process of composing short songs. Optional campfire singing will take place after dinner. Vasile is a church musician, teacher, coach and composer. To learn more or register, visit centerforbelonging.earth/ events.

Winneshiek County Republican Central Committee meeting

The regular meeting of the Winneshiek County Republican Central Committee will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 17 at the All-Vets VFW Club in Decorah. Local updates and committees will be discussed, and all towns in Winneshiek County are encouraged to have representation present for this meeting. All republicans welcome to attend. For more information, call 563-379-4224, or email winncorepubs@gmail.com.

man show exploring Houdini’s extraordinary life, his relentless pursuit of magic and the astonishing feats that defined his legacy. The program includes insights into Houdini’s secrets of success, stories of his fascination with magic and the occult and thrilling escapes and mesmerizing magic tricks.

Duffy Hudson is an actor, director, writer, teacher and filmmaker. After graduating from college, he moved to New York City where he attended the Circle in the Square Theater School on Broadway.

Contact Robey Memorial Library at 563-568-4424 or www. waukon.lib.ia.us with questions.

Public invited to learn basics of internet, mobile devices

The Decorah Public Library will be hosting a workshop on internet basics at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 18. The program will take place in the library’s lower level meeting room and is open to all who wish to learn how to use and access the internet. Participants will learn about web browsers and search engines, navigating a website, and how to use search engines. The library will have a limited number of laptops to use during the workshop, and participants are welcome to bring their own laptops. This workshop is geared toward people who aren’t sure where to start when it comes to accessing the internet. Registration is required and space is limited. For more information or to register, call Decorah Public Library at 563.382.3717 or visit decorahlibrary.org.

The public is also invited to join Decorah Public Library

staff for a hands-on workshop, “Android Device Basics,” at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 25. The interactive session is geared toward beginners looking for guidance on how to get the most out of their Android devices. Participants will learn to navigate their device, connect to wi-fi safely and securely, identify and use common apps, and adjust helpful settings. Participants should bring their own devices to the workshop. Decorah Public Library staff will be on hand to provide personalized assistance and answer questions. Advance registration is required for either session. For more information or to sign up, contact Decorah Public Library at 563-382-3717 or visit decorahlibrary.org.

These programs were made possible through a grant from AT&T and the Public Library Association.

United Way of Winneshiek County now accepting annual funding applications

United Way of Winneshiek County has officially opened its annual funding application process for nonprofit agencies and service providers serving the residents of Winneshiek County. Local organizations which provide programs and services are encouraged to apply for 2025 funding.

“United Way is proud to partner with organizations that are making a difference in the lives of children, families, seniors and individuals throughout our county,” said Christopher Miculinich, president of United Way of Winneshiek County. “This funding opportunity helps strengthen the safety net of support services available in our community.”

Organizers noted this year’s application cycle comes as many local agencies are fac-

ing an increased demand for services while navigating uncertainty surrounding recent changes in both federal and state funding streams. Eligible agencies must provide services within the county and align with United Way’s mission to improve lives and build a stronger, more equitable community. Funding is meant to support programs in areas such as food security, child care, housing stability, mental health and more.

The application deadline is June 30. Agencies may review eligibility guidelines and submit applications online at www. unitedwaywinnco.org/funding.

For more information or questions about the application process, agencies are encouraged to contact United Way of Winneshiek County at info@ unitedwaywinnco.org.

Decorah Public Library announces Dementia Friends Program

The Decorah Public Library and WinnMed are partnering to host a one-hour informational session for community members about becoming a Dementia Friend. The program will be held from 3-4 p.m. Wednesday, June 25 at the Decorah Public Library.

Bridget White, a certified occupational therapy assistant at WinnMed, will introduce participants to a growing global movement of people who are helping community members live with dementia. White has been working as a certified occupational therapy assistant at WinnMed in Decorah for more than 24 years and has extensive experience working with the

older population in the areas of long-term care, home health and dementia care.

Participants in this month’s session will learn some basics of dementia, what it’s like to live with the disease and some tips for communicating with people who have dementia.

Organizers hope attendees can then turn understanding into practical actions which help someone with dementia living in the community. For more information, contact Zach Row-Heyveld at the Decorah Public Library by emailing zrow-heyveld@decorahlibrary.org or by calling 563-382-3717.

The Winneshiek County Energy District recently announced a free service for Winneshiek County homeowners and renters to receive installation of energy-saving equipment. Homeowners may sign up for the Bill Savers program and, volunteers will install equipment which may help conserve energy and keep bills low, such as LED light bulbs, low-flow faucet aerators,

hot water pipe insulation and more. Installation can often be complete in less than 30 minutes. Homeowners may sign up with the program by calling 563-382-4207 ext. 1 or by visiting energydistrict.org/services/ billsavers. Organizers are currently scheduling for Saturday, June 21 and Saturday June 28. Homeowners unavailable on those dates may be added to a waiting list.

CUSB Mortgage Team (pictured l-r): Dan Ollendick, Cresco; Deb Novak, Cresco; Brian McConnell, Cresco; Diane Schick, Ridgeway; Adam Munkel, Lime Springs; Deanna Halbach, Osage; Curt Hallett, Charles City; Michele Johnson, Osage; Levi Meier, Shell Rock; Jamie Jordan, Waverly.

(Retired Lutheran

The best that you have

One Tuesday morning, I found a small black obsidian stone on my desk with this note written on a crumpled piece of paper, “If this was not my best stone, I would not have given it to you.” The author and giver was an 8-yearold girl whom I had baptized the Sunday before. Her family were rock hounds. Now, that really mad this emotional pastor puddle up.

After that Tuesday morning, that piece of black rock was on my desk to remind me to always give the best I have; the vest I can. It joined a tiny ceramic turtle given to me by a friend who said, “Like this turtle, you never get anywhere unless you stick your neck out.” I will now stick out my neck a bit and challenge you to always give the best you have. If I sound like a coach of an athletic team, I will accept that as a compliment. Having played quite a few rounds of golf, I know how difﬁcult it is to play anywhere near as well as a golf pro. The

woman or man who dares to attempt to be a golfer on the tour has to give the very best that person can give and spend hundreds of hours at the practice tee. The only time I attended a professional golf tournament, I was privileged to shake hands with a couple of pros. I will never forget the callouses and strong grip that made me wince a bit.

The carpenter, plumber, mechanic, nurse, teacher or chef will not long have a job or income unless that person is willing to work at and give the best of this or her learning and ability. I think it was the writer and poet John Milton who said, “The undisciplined life is not worth living.”

A thankful 8-year-old reminded me, by giving the best she had, to go and do likewise. I am sure I did not always follow that admonition and stick out my neck to do the very best I could. But as I write this, i have tried. I feel much obliged to do so.

Annual WinnMed Hospice memorial ride is Sunday

The annual WinnMed Hospice Memorial Ride is set for Sunday, June 22. The event will begin on the WinnMed campus in Decorah with a free-will donation breakfast and will be held rain or shine.

patients dealing with both physical and emotional pain and anxiety, the therapies can provide positive changes in mood, relaxation, peace and comfort. They reduce anxiety and stress and bring on more social interaction with caregivers and families. These therapies inevitably bring a smile to the faces of patients, which in turn, is a gift to both hospice staff as well as to families.”

Fun Facts

WinnMed Hospice provides end-of-life care which ensures quality of life, compassion and comfort for patients and their loved ones. Services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to patients and families in Allamakee, Clayton, Chickasaw, Fayette, Howard and Winneshiek Counties.

The breakfast will be available from 9-10:30 a.m. in the WinnMed cafeteria — the public is welcome to attend, whether participating in the ride or not. Parking will be available in the hospital’s Lot F. All vehicles are welcome to participate in the planned poker run. The ride entry fee is $20 per entry, and sign-in will be available at WinnMed during that morning’s breakfast. Bikes and cars will take off at 11 a.m. from WinnMed to begin the poker run. Participants will tour the roads of northeast Iowa and end at 4:30 p.m. at Pivo Brewery in Calmar, where a silent auction fundraiser, with door prizes and refreshments.

The 2025 event will support specialty services for hospice patients, including pet therapy, music therapy, massage therapy, and veteran’s services.

“There are many beneﬁts to the complimentary therapies provided through WinnMed Hospice,” said Nancy Haberichter, director of WinnMed Hospice. “For hospice

“We have received such wonderful support from the communities we serve,” Haberichter said. “We are extremely happy to provide all these therapies to our patients and excited to offer Veteran services as well. The Hospice Memorial Ride donations will help to keep these therapies available for a long time to come.”

For more information on the Hospice Memorial Ride, contact WinnMed Hospice at 563387-3024.

WinnMed is offering Winneshiek County senior citizens free coupons to be used at the Decorah Area Farmers Market this season. Participants will receive $10 in coupons for locally

Pictured are (front row left to right) Emily Falck, HCA, registered nurse Jen Nahl, pet therapist Dr. Merill Guarneri, registered nurse Sam Sherwood, (back row left to right) registered nurse Nicole Reicks, social worker Melissa Whelan, administrator Dee Heying, registered nurse Jill Shindelar, registered nurse Olivia Wenthold, registered nurse Keegan Luzum, Stacy Hamm, HCA, and registered nurse Mary Wagner. (Photo submitted)

For Rent: 1- & 2-bedroom apartments with appliances. Downtown Decorah. Rent & utilities. NP. 563379-0897. 23-tf-LD-9

For Rent: 2-bedroom apartment with garage and laundry. West Side Decorah. NP/NS. 563-380-6712. 24-tf-DL-9

For Rent: 3-bedroom farmhouse.

NP/NS. Appliances furnished. For more information contact 563-4195262. 24-tf-DL-9

2-bedroom apartment on W Water Street, Decorah. Available June 1st. $850/month. NS/NP. Water, garbage, snow removal included. 563-380-4959. 20-tf-LD-9

Heights Golf Course. Regular, mid-size, or jumbo. (The Winn Dri-Tacs, Golf Pride, many other brands.) Free, professional installation by Dan Elliott. 940-745-0895. 24-4-LD-1

4th of July ﬁrewood sale. Pickup load delivered $80. You pick up in Spillville $60. 940-745-0895. 24-6-LD-1

HELP WANTED

custom

For Rent: 3-bedroom, full-size kitchen. Great Decorah location. Carport and laundry on site. 507498-3333. 25-6-DL-9 Decorah Community Schools for the 2025-2026 School Year: Certified Special Education Teacher (Instructional Strategist I - Mathematics Co-Teacher)

Administrative Assistant

The City of Decorah is accepting applications for the position of Administrative Assistant. Minimum qualifications include associate’s degree in administration or 3 years of clerical, administrative, or office experience, proficient computer skills, strong verbal and written communication skills, and high degree of attention to detail. Position subject to background check and MVR check. The position will remain open until filled with first review of applications on June 23, 2025.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Application and complete job description may be obtained at the City Clerk’s office, Decorah Municipal Center, 400 Claiborne Drive or online at www.decorahia.org. For more information call (563) 382-3651. Return city application and resume to: City of Decorah, Attn: Keri Sand, PO Box 138, Decorah, IA, 52101 or ksand@ decorah.iowa.gov.

EEO/AA Employer, M/F Disabled and Veteran.

Decorah High School seeks a dedicated and collaborative Special Education Teacher for the 2025-2026 school year. This position offers a unique opportunity to join one of Iowa’s top-ranked schools, where inclusivity, academic rigor, and a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of all learners are foundational to student success.

24-3-LD-12

As a Special Education Teacher, you will be vital in supporting students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in co-taught high school mathematics courses. Partnering with general education teachers, you will provide targeted instruction and accommodations to ensure students access rigorous, grade-level math content. Your work will emphasize developing foundational math skills, problem-solving strategies, and confidence in mathematics. Using evidence-based practices, personalized interventions, and a student centered approach, you will help students overcome challenges and achieve their academic goals.

WHY DECORAH HIGH SCHOOL?

LOST AND

• Educational Excellence: Ranked consistently among Iowa’s top five high schools by U.S. News &World Report, we earned our second National Blue Ribbon Schools Award in 2024, reflecting our dedication to academic achievement and equity.

• Inclusive Practices: We embrace a non-categorical approach to special education, focusing on each student’s strengths and unique needs. Our inclusive classrooms ensure all students receive the support and opportunities to thrive academically and socially.

• Holistic Support: Beyond academics, we prioritize the social-emotional wellbeing of every student. Our counselors and teaching staff collaborate to foster a safe and supportive learning environment that nurtures the whole child.

• Extracurricular Excellence: With over 85% of students participating in sports, clubs, or activities—including Special Olympics and Unified Champion programs—Decorah High School offers a vibrant community where every student feels connected and valued.

At Decorah High School, our commitment to inclusivity is deeply ingrained in our policies, practices, and culture. By collaborating with colleagues, leveraging technology, and implementing data-driven interventions, you will play an integral role in ensuring all students with IEPs succeed in mathematics and beyond. This dedication to individualized support and high expectations sets Decorah High School apart as an exceptional place to teach, learn, and grow.

POSITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Instructional Support

• Co-teach mathematics courses aligned with Iowa Core standards and grade-level expectations. Develop and implement accommodations, modifications, and instructional strategies to support students with IEPs. Provide small-group and one-on-one interventions for students needing additional support in math.

• Collaborate with general education teachers to deliver engaging, inclusive, and differentiated instruction.

Student Growth Monitor and assess student progress toward IEP goals, adjusting strategies and supports as needed.

• Foster positive relationships with students to build confidence, motivation, and engagement.

• Communicate regularly with families to ensure consistency and alignment between home and school support.

Collaboration and Professionalism

• Participate actively in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to align teaching practices and interventions.

Work collaboratively with paraprofessionals, counselors, and administrators to support student success.

• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all student, family, and staff interactions.

Professional Development

Engage in ongoing training to enhance knowledge of special education practices, co-teaching strategies, and evidence-based math interventions.

• Contribute to the school’s culture of continuous improvement by sharing successful strategies with colleagues.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Valid Iowa teaching license (or willingness to obtain).

• 5-12 Instructional Strategist I: Mild/Moderate (261) Endorsement (or willingness to obtain).

• Strong communication and organizational skills. Commitment to ongoing professional development and collaboration. Preferred: Prior co-teaching experience, ideally in mathematics

• 5-12 Mathematics (143) Endorsement (or willingness to obtain).

• Familiarity with technology integration to enhance math instruction and interventions

Stanley Black & Decker seeks Manufacturing Excellence Engineer in Decorah, IA responsible for operational improvement workstream(s) that require development of workstream charter, detailed work plan, & identification of operational & financial KPIs to measure progress of improvement actions. Required Bachelor’s in industrial/manufacturing/processing/mechanical engineering or related, and 4 yrs experience with processing engineering & continuous improvement. Up to 15% domestic travel. Benefits: Full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on position offered. Salary range: $101,712.00$126,500.00/year. Resumes to: Jess Coffman, jess.coffman@sbdinc.com

and install them. Preferred candidates with good working experience and construction background. Must have valid drivers license. Competitive wage based on experience. Interested parties please call Dewey Brincks at (563)380-6122, (563) 238-3371 or (563) 238-2019 or stop by the shop in person at 413 E. Grove Street, Lawler, IA

Turn

June 21, 2025, 10:00 a.m.

Protivin American Legion Post 605, Owner.

• 130 West Street. Lot 8 and Lot 9 in Block 3 of the Replat of the West Half of the East Half of the Southwest Quarter of Section 13, Township 97 North, range 11 West of the 5th P.M. in the City of Protivin, Howard County, Iowa, as surveyed in May 2025.

• Lot 9 (South lot) has the building on it. The building measures approximately 18’ x 32’.

• Each lot measures approximately 50’ x 150’.

• Lots can be sold separately, or together whichever brings the most money.

• No water or sewer on property.

• Real estate is subject to owners’ approval

• Terms are $5000.00 down payment per lot on the day of the auction and the remaining balance due upon closing within 30 days.

Selling AS IS, WHERE IS, LIKE IS.

Any questions contact Dean Hubka 563-380-8450

conducted and clerked by:

SHINDELAR AUCTION SERVICE LLC Box 97 Protivin, IA 52163 Ph 563-569-8235

ingredients, such as a favorite cookie and homemade ice cream. “Vanilla Ice Cream Infused With Rose Geranium Leaves” from “Simple Soirées” (Stewart, Tabori & Chang) by Peggy Knickerbocker makes for an ideal treat this summer.

Vanilla Ice Cream Infused With Rose Geranium Leaves

Makes about 1 quart; serves 6 to 8

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 cups whole milk

3⁄4 cup sugar 24 rose geranium leaves or 6 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 small branch lemon verbena 6 large egg yolks

To make the custard: In a heavy saucepan combine the cream, milk, 1⁄2 cup of the sugar, and the geranium leaves. Cook over medium-high heat until the mixture just begins to boil, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat, cover, and let the leaves steep in the milky mixture for about 15 minutes. Then pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer and discard the leaves or herbs.

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and remaining 1⁄4 cup of sugar until thick and pale. Add a few tablespoons of the warm milk mixture to the egg mixture, whisking vigorously. Once combined, add the egg mixture back into the milk mixture, whisking continuously.

6. Photographs must have a fully completed entry slip attached to the back.

Cook over medium-low heat until the rich custard coats the back of a spoon (run your finger down the bowl of the spoon — if the finger mark remains, it’s done). Or use an instant-read thermometer; the custard is done at 175 to 180 F. Do not allow the mixture to boil.

Strain the custard again into a glass bowl using a fine mesh sieve. Cover and refrigerate until you are ready to make the ice cream (the custard needs to chill for 30 to 60 minutes). You may place the bowl into a larger bowl of ice to quicken the chilling time.

THURSDAY, JUNE 19 - Online

Auction - Kruse Machinery Liquidation Auction, ends June 19. Preview June 16, 10-2pm, Meadowlark Rd., Decorah. Cedar Valley Property Solutions. www.cvpsauctions.com. 641-228-4262.

SATURDAY, JUNE 21 - 10 a.m.

Real Estate Auction. Protivin American Legion Post 605, Owner. Shindelar Auction Service, LLC. Protivin. 563-569-8235. www.auctionsgo.com

To make the ice cream: Pour the chilled custard into an icecream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions. When it is done, serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer for a day or two. Remove it from the freezer about 10 minutes before serving time.

SATURDAY, JUNE 28 - 9:30 a.m.

7. Entries need to be delivered to the Winneshiek County Fair Community Building on July 1, 12-4 p.m. or July 8, 1-4 p.m.

Houshold, Lawn & Shop Auction. Pauline & the late Dave Flack. 490 Hwy 51, Postville, IA. Monroe Auction Service, 563-864-7346. www.smedrealty.com/monroe-auctions. Like us on Facebook.

To make ice cream sandwiches, let the ice cream thaw until spreadable. Place an ample amount on a cookie and top with another cookie. Wrap sandwiches individually in waxed paper and put into the freezer to allow the ice cream to harden again. Use large cookies, which can be homemade or store-bought.

Hundreds hit the dirt for annual Crater Trail Run

The 12th annual Crater Trail Run was held Saturday, June 7 — National Trail Day — at Van Peenen Memorial Park in Decorah, where nearly 300 runners and walkers participated in 50k, 25k, 10k, 5k and one-mile races. According to race coordinator and event promoter Scott Searcy, winners received prizes donated by Toppling Goliath and The Hatchery Store, and there was a rafﬂe as well. Searcy added all funds raised by the event will be divided among Northeast Iowa Montessori School, DHPT, and Decorah Parks and Recreation. (Decorah Leader photo by Denise Lana) Full article and more photos are featured in the June 12 Decorah Leader, ﬁnd past editions of the newspaper at decorahleader.com.