inspire(d) magazine, august/september 2010
DESCRIPTION
More positive news from the Driftless Region: Dream Big, Grow Here; DigIN: Decorah Iowa Green INitiative, Paul Lambrecht, Chef Douglas Dahlgren, Decorah Health Care Deals & more!TRANSCRIPT
inspire(d)magazine
inspire.
an experiment in positive news.
be inspired.
AU
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No. 22
theinspiredmedia.comCheck it:YEP, IT’SFREE!
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Fresh positive news inside!
Seed Savers ExchangeTomato Tasting
September 4, 2010 Decorah, Iowa
HARVEST FESTIVAL, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2nd!All event details at seedsavers.org or call 563.382.5990
3074 North Winn Rd. Decorah, IA 52101
Over 35 Heirloom Tomatoes will be available to taste, vote for your favorite!
Seed Saving Workshops, hay wagon rides
Great Food for Sale
Great Music
Salsa Contest sponsored by Oneota Coop—contest rules and entry
forms available soon at seedsavers.org or oneotacoop.com
Time is running out! Pick your favorite shows and subscribe by August 27 to get a 10–20 percent discount and premier seating!
TickeTs: http://centerstage.luther.edu, 563-387-1357, [email protected]
center stage series 2010–11center for Faith and Life, Luther college, Decorah, iowa
Danzón! Luna Negra Dance Theatre and Turtle island QuartetSaturday, Sept. 11, 7:30 p.m. $23, $21, $15 Individual tickets available Sept. 2.
A bold, spectacular new work of Latin-inspired ballet partnered with intrepid explorers in strings. Sponsored in part by the Luther College Diversity Council
American Brass Quintet Friday, Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m. $22, $20, $15 Individual tickets available Sept. 2.
An acclaimed 50th anniversary performance by the “high priests of brass”
inspire(d) magazine • august/
september 2
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INSPIRE(D) LOVE(S) LETTERS
GET UP AND DANZÓN!
CHEF ON THE BLOCK: DOUGLAS DAHLGREN
IT’S ALL WOOD: ARTIST PAUL LAMBRECHT
THE LAST DOWNLOA(D)
DIG IN - CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
PLANT THE DREAM; GROW HERE
FALL FESTIVAL ROUND-UP
WALK THE WALK
MISSISSIPPI MIRTH: THE SMOKER
...and more!
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AUGUST & SEPTEMBER
GOOD STUFF TO READ
contents
theinspire(d)mediainspire
(d)
2010
HEALTH CARE DEALS! 46
PROBITUARY: GALE LUDEKING 48
page 24
page 31
page 14
Cover photos/illustration by Aryn Henning Nichols
Rien de nouveau(nothing is new)
Bring in your stuff!
411 West Water Street, downtown Decorah 563 382-8898 • www.fancypantsonwater.com
Fancy Pants has expanded to bring you an exclusive consignment shop.
Now accepting consignment items of all types: Fall/Winter men's and women's quality clothing, accessories, purses, shoes,
Prom dresses, kitsch, antiques, furniture, art, jewelry, custom t-shirts.
Decorah Tsby RAYGUN
Its OK, Lutherans, you can laugh. Try it...and
leave the guilt behind! Feels good, doesn’t it?
Available at:
Fancy Pants
Preserving a heritage. Connecting us all.523 W. Water St., Decorah, Iowa • 563-382-9681 • vesterheim.org
Norwegian BusserullCarol Colburn September 10-13
Norwegian Flag QuiltJill AmdahlOctober 22-24
“Norwegian Handknits” Project: Rosemaled Shag Bag Sue Flanders and Janine KoselDecember 2-3
Check vesterheim.org or contact
[email protected] or 563-382-9681 to register today!
Classes for Textile Enthusiasts!
Northeast Iowa Regional Memory WalkSeptember 18West Union, Iowa
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and its respective associates and employees cannot providelegal, accounting, or tax advice or services. Work with your Thrivent Financial representativein collaboration with your attorney and/or tax professional for complete details.21822C R4-07 200702999 ©2010 Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
Wouldn’t it be great to give a substantialgift to the organizations you care aboutmost while staying true to your budget?
With a gift of life insurance, you can. It canbe an affordable, easy and flexible way tomake a difference.
For more information on planned charitablegiving and the life insurance qualificationrequirements, call today.
A simple act today can make asubstantial difference tomorrow.
Kate RattenborgFinancial Associate
218 E Water StDecorah, IA 52101
563-382-1801
I know I’ve started a letter like this before, but I am so flippin’ excited! I actually just wrote Benji, who is on the road being awesome as the Program Director of Celebration Iowa, an email that said,
“Hooray for everything!” Dorky, yes. But this magazine has been a bit challenging with my partner-in-all-things-wonderful being gone, but despite all that, it’s GOOD! From stories about big dreams to tips on getting great health care deals – insurance be damned – to the kick-off of a new season of Center Stage Series at Luther College and TONS of great music and festivals all over the tri-state area. C’mon. It’s exciting.
I can hardly believe autumn is approaching, school supplies are in stock, and even some leaves from the giant maple tree in our yard are beginning to fall. Fall! It’s so fun.
Here are a few of the things I’m excited about:Hawkeye Football (sorry Cyclones…if I’ve lost a few readers…I’ll miss you).Hearing the marching band practice here in Decorah in the afternoon (I
was a trumpet…at Iowa too!). Random, I know...but I love it.The 2nd Annual DigIN: the Decorah Iowa Green INitiative – this is such
a great weekend, and on top of all the great tours and events, JJ’s Paydirt Zydeco Band is playing that Saturday, and I love me some good Louisiana dancin’.
The Super Swanky Launch Party at the Hotel Winneshiek September 17, announcing the winner of the regional arts council naming contest (details on page 19). I’ve been at the forefront of this re-branding project, working hand-in-hand with the current Decorah Regional Arts Council president, Lisa Lantz. We’re so pumped about this party, and hope you will put your thinking caps on if you’re reading this before August 15 – we want all the name ideas you’ve got!
Harvest time! Our garden got a little (LOT!) unruly this year, I’ll admit that. But hey, my house is clean! That aside, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed CSA Saturdays or heading to the Farmers’ Market to check out what’s ready and looking tasty. It’s pretty much high tomato time now, and that means Seed Saver’s Tomato Tasting event (September 4) – you get to try more than 35 heirloom tomatoes! Plus there’s hay wagon rides and seed saving workshops and a salsa contest! Sweet.
I’m also delighted that we have a letters page this issue – we’ve gotten some really great, really humbling feedback in the past six months, and we wanted to share some of the notes with you all. We can’t thank you enough for your loyal readership.
So how about you? What are you excited about?
Looking forward,
Aryn Henning Nichols
a bit about the editor
Looking forward,
Aryn Henning Nichols
theinspire(d)mediainspire
(d)
Inspire(d) Magazine is published bi-monthly by Inspire(d)
Media, LLC, 412 Oak Street, Decorah, Iowa, 52101. This issue
is dated Aug/Sept, 2010, issue 22, volume 3, Copyright 2010 by
Inspire(d) Magazine.
Co-founders:Aryn Henning Nichols / editor & designer
Benji Nichols / totally awesome dude & ad sales (& husband, support team, etc)
We couldn’t do it without:Jim McCaffrey / Mississippi Mirth
Jason Stonerook/ the Downloa(d)
Kristine Kopperud Jespen/ contributor
Lauren Kraus/ contributor
Susie Clark/ contributor
Danielle Koch/ contributor
Although Inspire(d) is free on the newsstands, you can have it sent to your door for only $25/year. Email
[email protected] for a membership or visit
theinspiremedia.com for more info.
Want to make a comment about something you read in
the magazine?Email
Interested in advertising? Contact Benji at
[email protected] call 563-387-6290.
Inspire(d) is printed with soy-based ink on partially recycled paper
Write inspire(d)
support inspire(d)
3
507-467-2446www.lanesboroarts.org
LANESBORO ARTS CENTER
UPCOMING EXHIBIT AT THE GALLERIES:
CONCERT AT THE ST. MANE THEATRE:
Lanesboro, Minnesota
CONCERT AT THE ST. MANE THEATRE:
Kent DuChaineDelta Blues
Friday, Aug. 13, 7:30 pm
$12 / $10 LAC members in
advance or at the door
206 Parkway Ave N.
Wood Sculpture by Paul Lambrecht
“Sculptures from the Forest”Aug. 14
– Oct. 17Artist
Reception: Saturday, Aug. 14 6-8 pmFree to
the public!103 Parkway
Ave N.
Galactic Cowboy Orchestra Country
rock jazz
bluegrass swing folk!
Friday, Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m.$12 / $10 LAC membersIn advance or at the door
206 Parkway Ave N.
Aryn,
I’ve been coming to Decorah since 1995 or so – due to my mate, Ann Hjelle’s family connection to Siewer’s Springs. And of course, I always root around for the mags, newspapers, journals, etc. that might clue us in to “what’s happening” while we’re there & in the area. Though we like to luxuriate out at the old brick house, mental flossing in the woods around the bluff, being from The Big Apple [or more precisely, Hoboken, NJ, right across the river] we need our share of Arts & Culture.
Hence, this trip I was pleased to happen upon the June/July issue of Inspire(d), which among other things, turned me on to the Perfect Edge opening & Richard van Genderen, which was delightful. I also happened to seek out the previous copy & saw your piece on Anoushka, who I’ve known since she was a little girl – I’ve known Ravi since the mid 1970s though I’ve listened to his music since the 1960s...Since I had some hot off the press copies of the latest Raga Records CD & you professed liking sitar, I couldn’t help playing Santa & drove up to the Oak St. HQ where, alas, I didn’t meet you, however I delivered a copy of maestro Nikhil Banerjee’s Madras Concert to your partner, Benji. I do hope you’ve gotten to listen & enjoy the wonderful genius of the legendary musician.
All the Best to you both! Ira Landgarten, Hoboken, NJ
Ed. note: Thanks, Ira – the CD is great!
THANKS TO ALL OF YOU! We can’t believe we’re printing 8000 magazines and getting so much wonderful feedback! Awwww.Lots o’ love, Aryn
We are visiting relatives in Cresco and picked up a copy of Inspire(d) after a great meal at McCaffrey’s. Great magazine! Plenty of ads and info on local happenings, and best of all, interesting editorial content. You’ve certainly boosted my opinion of the Decorah area. If I lived here, I’d be sure to always have a current copy on hand. Your advertisers should be very pleased.
Keep up the good work! Don Diddams, US Virgin Islands
WE LETTERS!
Aryn and Benji,
Enclosed is $25 for a subscription to Inspire(d) Magazine. We used to subscribe, but then I got “putzy” and just started picking up my free copy. Then I realized that just as I never download music for free, or as I support public radio (and don’t expect it for free), I wanted to invest in your very worthy endeavor. You’re going a great thing for Decorah! Keep up the inspiring work.
Cheers – Janeen Christy, Decorah
WANT TO WRITE US A LETTER? TELL US YOU LOVE US, TELL US YOU DON’T – EITHER WAY, EMAIL [email protected] OR MAIL TO: INSPIRE(D), 412 OAK ST., DECORAH, IOWA, 52101.
4
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Facilitated by Johanna Kittelson, Decorah Bank & Trust Co.
A Practical & Entertaining money management course
Starting in Decorah August 26Thursdays from 7 - 9pm at the Hotel Winneshiek
RSVP to Johanna by 8/13/10 at 563.382.9661
You, your spouse & teens living in your home may attend as one family unit.
Intro video & weekly sessions list at decorahbank.com
Entire course just $98.95 Plus:Receive a
coupon upon completion to use toward a savings
account at Decorah Bank
FPU Membership Kit included in program cost
Creative writers will gather, present readings of their work, and lead discussions about writing and the writer’s life at “The Vibrant Word: A Lutheran Festival of Writing,” October 29 through 31 at Luther College in Decorah.
The event celebrates literary work by practicing Lutherans, Lutheran writers teaching in non-Lutheran colleges, writers at ELCA colleges, and a range of editors and publishers. Through readings, lectures, panel discussions, and an open-mike event, the three-day festival aims to support and encourage writers, and to cultivate a community of writers and readers in the Lutheran world.
“The Vibrant Word” is the second triennial festival. The first festival was held at Luther College in 2007.
Festival registration is open now until Friday, October 22. Registration fee is $95, with an additional $25 for the Saturday evening banquet. Luther community members receive discount prices.
For complete prices and registration information go online to: reason.luther.edu/lutheranfestivalofwriting/register.
This year’s festival keynote speakers are Robert Cording and Rene Steinke. Cording is the recipient of two National Endowment for the Arts grants in poetry, and Steinke’s novel “Holy Skirts” was finalist for the National Book Award.
Keynote events will be open to the public without registration.
Fiction writers new to the festival in 2010 include Mark Mustian, David Oppegaard, Pamela Johnston, and Thomas Maltman.
Poets participating in the conference for the first time include John Graber, Barbara Crooker, Cass Dalglish, Philip Bryant, Diane LeBlanc, Vince Wixon,
Susanna Childress, Katy Giebenhain, Joe Wilkins, Cary Waterman, and Steven Schroeder.
Other writers reading their work include creative non-fiction writer David Faldet and returning drama and fiction writers Nancy Barry and Walter Wangerin.
Other presenters returning from the 2007 Lutheran Festival of Writing include creative writers Lauri Anderson, Jill Pelaez Baumgaertner, Jill Alexander Essbaum, Gary Fincke, Carol Gilbertson, Gracia Grindal, Patrick Hicks,
Robert Schultz, Paul Shepherd, and Amy Weldon.The Reverend Norene Smith, co-pastor of Bay Shore
Lutheran Church, Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, will preach at the Reformation Day service Sunday morning. Smith was campus pastor at Luther College from 1991-97.
The Festival’s panel discussions will include “Art, Idea, and Belief,” “The Past as a Foreign Country,” “Networking for Readers and Writers,” “A Sense of Place” and “Thoughts on Editing and Publishing.”
The 2007 conference brought more than 250 people from 21 different states and three countries to the Luther College campus.
“This will be an amazing event. At the last festival, there was such talent and energy, such generosity and good will among the presenters and attendees, and this fest promises to be just as vibrant,” says Carol Gilbertson, professor of English and director of the festival. “These are all fine writers who seek to write poems and stories – novels and memoirs – that give shape and meaning to our lives. Each of us needs good stories and good words in our lives.”
The Lutheran Festival of Writing is sponsored by the Luther College Lutheran Festival of Writing Endowment and hosted by the Luther College Department of English. For more information about the Lutheran Festival of Writing visit www.LutheranFestivalofWriting.org.
Photos, from top: Lutheran Festival of Writing keynote speaker, novelist Rene Steinke; Lutheran Festival of Writing keynote speaker, poet Robert Cording; Director of Lutheran Festival of Writing, Carol Gilbertson.
LUTHERAN 3-DAY FESTIVAL OF WRITING IN DECORAH
‘Quality Chick’
Decorah Hatchery
Watch forthe NEW
T-SHIRT
HIGH-QUALITY OUTDOOR GEAR
World famous manufacturers – small town prices.
406 W. Water StreetDowntown Decorah
382-4102 www.decorahhatchery.com
HATS • SHOES • JACKETS SOCKS • BAGS AND MORE!
Phot
o by
Dec
orah
New
spap
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FAMILY FUN FESTSATURDAY, AUGUST 14
AT SIEWERS SPRING FISH HATCHERY
FREE KIDS FUN RUN 5K WALK RUN NOW A TIMED EVENT!
NEW THIS YEAR!
KIDS OBSTACLE COURSE & GAMES!
5K PRE-REGISTRATION (by Monday, August 2)Forms available at Decorah Park & Recreation office
or online: decoraharea.com
The third annual United Way of Winneshiek County Family Fun Fest will be Saturday, August 14, at the Decorah Fish Hatchery.
This kickoff event is significant for the overall success of the 2010 United Way campaign.
“It’s really an informal and very fun way of giving the community a chance to see the agencies and organizations that are supported by the United Way of Winneshiek County,” says United Way events committee chair Jeni Grouws. “Community members will see that when they support the United Way, they directly support our local community. And they’ll have a lot of fun in the process.”
This year, the organization is needed more than ever.
“Our local agencies that benefit from your United Way contributions have seen an increase in need throughout the county,” says United Way of Winneshiek County President Maureen Yahr. “The money you give stays right in Winneshiek County, supporting our local agencies that help our local individuals and families. Give locally. Support locally.”
United Way of Winneshiek County serves 17 different nonprofit agencies and has set a goal this year of $150,000, the highest goal ever in this county.
Two major changes highlight this year’s Fun Fest – the addition of a Kids Fun Run, and that the 5K Walk/Run is now a timed event.
“We’re really excited about the addition of the free Kids Fun Run this year,” says Grouws. “It’s less than a mile, so even young children can experience what it’s like to cross the finish line with everyone cheering them on.”
Registration begins at 7:30 am. The free Kids Fun Run will begin at 8 am with the 5K Run/Walk starting at 8:20 am. In addition, a free obstacle course for kids ages 10 and under will be open from 8 am to 10 am. Other activities include face painting, yard games and pie throwing.
Pre-registration for the Family Fun Fest, which includes a t-shirt, is $10 per person. Registration on the day of the event is $15. Registration forms may be obtained by going to www.decoraharea.com and clicking on the United Way logo. All entrants are eligible in a drawing for a wide variety of prizes. There will also be an awards ceremony for the top male and female performers in the 5K run/walk.
For more info about the United Way Family Fun Fest email Jeni Grouws at [email protected].
FINALLY! FAMILY FUN FEST (FABULOUS!)
FUN!
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Monday TuesdaySunday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
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of wind.
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Thursday Night Concerts through August, Trempealeau Hotel
Free Thursdays at Vesterheim!
Exhibits at Lanesboro Arts Center:Through Aug 8: Landscapes by Sara Lubinski
Through Sept 6: Jewelry by Laura StamperAug 14 – Oct 17: Sculpture by Paul Lambrecht
Sept 18 – Nov 15: Photography by Dan Ruf
Paul Kaye, Lawn Chair Night, Decorah Court-house, 7 pm
Paul Kaye Trio w/ Eric Berg & Lloyd Bolz, Haymarket, 9 pm
Celebration at the Hatchery, Decorah Fish Hatchery, 5-9 pm
Paul Kaye, McCaffrey’s, Decorah, 7-10
Celebration Iowa finale show, Marshalltown, 7 pm
Down By The Riverside
Festival, Mayo Park, Rochester,
MN
August 10-11: Blue Collar Diaries, Commonweal, Lanesboro, 7:30 pm
Dawes, Gabe’s, Iowa City (Gabe’s is Gabe’s again!)
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic
Zeroes, Cabooze, Minneapolis
Rufus & Martha Wainwright, Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis
Under Our Skin, documentary, DPL, 6:30 pm
Miss Havesham, Lawn Chair Night,
Decorah Courthouse, 7 pm
August 12-22: Iowa State Fair!
August 13-15: Lansing
Fish Days, La Crosse Irish Fest, & Lime
Springs Sweet Corn Days
Kent DuChaine, blues, St. Mane, L-boro, 7:30 pm
Barn Dance w/ Foot-Notes, Cutting Farm, Rural Decorah, 7 pm
Paul Lambrecht Artist Reception, Lanesboro Arts Center, 6-8 pm
United Way Family Fun Fest, Decorah Hatchery
Michelle Lynn, McCaffrey’s, Decorah, 7-10 pm
Patrick Ball, Celtic Harp, Cavagnaro
home, Rural Decorah, 7:30 pm
We’re Talking Hawkeye Football w/ Gary Dolphin, Rubaiyat, 6:30 pm
Guttenberg German Band, Lawn Chair Night, Decorah, 7 pm
August 20-22: Czech Days, Protivin, IA
August 19-22: Hay Barn Rendezvous, Marquette, IA
Running on the Wild Side 5k, Lake Meyer, 9 am
Blondie & Cheap Trick, Treasure Island, Red Wing
Sonny Bryant (of The Platters), Elkader Opera House, 7:30 pm
Aryn & Benji’s 3 year wedding
anniversary!
Fairy “Chair”ity, 2106 Twin Springs Rd, Decorah, 1-6pm
KDEC’s Green Expo, Winn. Co. Fairgrounds, 11-4
Charlie Parr, Ed’s No Name Bar, Winona, MN
Lynne Rothrock w/ Ron DeWitt, Commonweal, 7:30 pm
Good Friends, Lawn Chair Night, Decorah, 7 pmAug 26: Kenny Rogers,
Mayo Civic Center Auditorium, Rochester
Lou Klimesh, McCaffrey’s, Decorah, 7-10 (Wolfe family benefit)
Two Many Banjos, Haymarket, 9 pm
August 27-29: Great River Folk Festival, La Crosse
Moon Boot Posse, The Popcorn, La
Crosse
tapes ‘n tapes, The Mill, Iowa City
Open Stage: Featuring Alex Toast, T-Bock’s
August 30-31: Lady Gaga, Xcel
Energy Center, St. Paul
digINthe decorah iowa green INitiative
Ongoing at Commonweal Theatre, Lanesboro, MNAug 1, 14, 15, 21, 22, 26, 29: Picasso at the Lapin Agile, 1:30 pm
Aug 5, 7, 12, 19, 26: Picasso at the Lapin Agile, 7:30 pmMon & Fri: Enchanted April, 7:30 pm
Aug 14, 21, 28: Enchanted April, 1:30 pmSundays: Over the Back Fence, 7:30 pm
August 20-22: Dig IN, Green Festival! Decorah
August 26-September 6: Minnesota State Fair!
August 5-15: Wisconsin State Fair!
Aug 19-22: Dear Edwina, Jr., New Minowa Players’ Young People’s Production, NMP Theatre
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August 3-9: Clayton County Fair
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Monday TuesdaySunday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 ArtHaus First Friday,
new work by Ben Moore, 7 pm
Big Daddy Cade & the Blues Masters, Haymarket, 9 pm
The Nadas, Fry Fest, Coralville
Tomato Tasting, Seed Savers, Decorah
Scissor Sisters, Epic Event Center, Minneapolis
Labor Day!
Billy Bragg, Cedar Cultural
Center, Minneapolis
Fall classes begin,
ArtHaus, Decorah
Iowa vs. Iowa State, at Iowa City
September 10-12: Steam Engine Days, Mabel, MN
Danzòn, Center Stage, Luther CFL, 7:30 pm
The Reverend Peyton’s Big
Damn Band, The Mill, Iowa City
Min Mor, Commonweal,
Lanesboro, 7:30 pm
The Delta Routine, Haymarket, 9 pm
Judy Shepard, speaker, Gallagher
Bluedorn, Cedar Falls, IA
Super Swanky Launch Party, DRAC rename, Hotel Winn, 7-11pm
Bluegrass in the Courtyard, ArtHaus, 7 pm
Dan Ruf Artist Reception, Lanesboro Arts Center, 6-8 pm
Memory Walk, West Union
Dionne Warwick, Mayo Event Center, Rochester
The Flaming Lips, The
Roy Wilkins Auditorium,
St. Paul
Michelle Shocked, The Englert, Iowa City
Of Montreal, First Ave, Minneapolis
Galactic Cowboy Orchestra, St. Mane, Lanesboro, 7:30 pm
American Brass Quintet,
Center Stage, CFLLuther, 7:30 pm
The Bad Plus, Carleton College, Northfield, MN
September 24-October 2: La Crosse Oktoberfest
Winn.Wildberry Winery Annual Grape Stomp
Choreography of Douglas Dunn, Luther Jewel Theatre, 7:30 pm
Open Stage: Featuring Maritza, T-Bock’s
The Four Tops & The Temptations, Gallagher Bluedorn, Cedar Falls, IA
Don’t Miss Free Thursdays at Vesterheim!
September 23: First Day of Autumn!
Ongoing at Commonweal Theatre, Lanesboro, MN:Sept 2, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24: Picasso at the Lapin Agile, 7:30 pm
Sept 4, 5, 6, 11, 18, 25: Picasso at the Lapin Agile, 1:30 pmSept 3, 9, 16, 23, 27: Enchanted April, 7:30 pm
Sept 4, 11, 12, 18, 19, 26: Enchanted April, 1:30 pmSept 5: Over the Back Fence, 7:30 pm
Sept 30: Preview, Turn of the Screw, 7:30 pm Luther College classes start
Sept 24: Taj Mahal, Riverside Casino, Riverside, IA
Anything Goes, Elkader Opera House, 2 pm
September 10-11: Dance Performance, “Solo,” ArtHaus, 8 & 10 pm
Sept 24-35: Boats and Bluegrass, Prairie Island Campground, Winona
September 24-25: Recession Fest, Winneshiek Co. Fairgrounds, Decorah
September 24-26: Norman Borlaug Harvest Festival, Cresco
September 25-26: Rendezvous Days, Fort Atkinson, IA
Mabel, MN
Sept 17-18: Luther College Family Weekend
COMING UP IN OCTOBER:1-3: Northeast Iowa Studio Tour
1, 2, 7, 8, 9: Anything Goes, Elkader Opera House, 7:30 (1:30 matinee Oct. 3)
2: Harvest Festival, Seed Savers, Decorah8: The People Brothers Band, Haymarket, 9 pm
8: Bill Cosby, Riverside Casino, Riverside, IA8: OK Go, Lion’s Pause, St. Olaf, Northfield
Sept 9-10: Blue Collar Diaries, Commonweal, Lanesboro, 7:30 pm
September 10-13: Clarks Grove Harvest Fest, Harmony Park, Geneva, MN
Minneapolis
September 10-13: Clarks Grove Harvest
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The First Annual “Celebration at the Fish Hatchery” will be hosted by the Friends of the Decorah Fish Hatchery August 7 from 5 to 9 pm. The event is free to attend and will feature a concert by “Big Blue Sky,” free Moo-Mobile shakes and free popcorn. There will also be fly-tying demonstrations, children’s fly-casting contests, fish races and free fish food available to feed the fish. Attendees are welcome to bring a picnic-style meal, their own beverages, and they are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs for seating.
The event is an opportunity for the public to learn more about the new non-profit organization “Friends of the Decorah Fish Hatchery” and its efforts to improve and enhance the Decorah Fish Hatchery and support its educational programs. The Friends of the Decorah Fish Hatchery is currently raising funds to construct a new interpretive facility with updated restrooms at the Hatchery. To become a Friend of the Decorah Fish Hatchery or learn more about the efforts of the Friends group, visit www.decorahfishhatchery.org or contact Brian Malaise at 563-382-8324 or Paul Berland at 563-864-7112.
The recession – by any means – isn’t over yet, and neither is the area festival of the same name. Recession Fest – “a top quality music festival at recession based prices”– will once again fill Decorah’s late summer music festival needs.
Presented by Per Capita Entertainment – Jordan Meltzer, David Polansky (aka Die Sloe), and Kyle Sorenson (DJ Smiley) – the festival is set for Friday and Saturday September 24-25 at the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds. The line-up includes everything from the newly-transplanted Decorah resident and singer/song writer Michelle Lynn to Saturday’s headliner: a reunion of local legends of the past, Rearview Mirror. Area favorites Wonder Creek and Die Sloe will also take the stage, along with La Crosse reggae band T.U.G.G., Minneapolis rock bands Throw the Fight and 3 Pill Morning, local rockers Cletus Bo-Dean and Rosie by Day, Winona hip-hop band Verbal Kint, and more.
Food and beverages will be available, and weekend passes are now on sale for $12 in advance or $15 at the gates. Updated band and ticket information can be found on Facebook or by calling 563-379-6277.
CELEBRATE A DECORAH ATTRACTION AND RESOURCE
RE: RECESSION FEST
9
& GalleryGreat for groups up to 40Baby or Wedding ShowersSmall receptions or PartiesWeddings (garden available)Murder Mystery Dinners “Amazin’ Race” Games
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As a string musician, it was with childlike excitement and anticipation that I dialed the Los Angeles phone number of Mark Summer – cellist and founding member of the Grammy-winning string ensemble, Turtle Island Quartet. Growing up listening to, as well as performing in, multiple quartets has formed in me a deep
appreciation for the art of the quartet. I felt a little like a groupie calling “the band.”
Get up Danzón!
By Susie Clark
Luther College Center Stage kick-off : Fusing Traditional & Modern, Music & Dance
& phot
o by
Jay
Bla
kesb
erg
inspire(d) magazine • august/
september 2
01
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Celebrating their 25th anniversary this year, Turtle Island Quartet’s multiple albums do not feature your typical Mozart or Haydn. Instead, the original arrangements explore the realms of rock n’ roll and jazz – with music by artists such as Jimi Hendrix and John Coltrane. More than your typical “cover band,” compositions by these legendary musicians are performed not by saxophone or electric guitar, but by two violins
(David Balakrishnan and Mads Tolling), viola (Jeremy Kittel), and cello (Mark Summer). No, Turtle Island is definitely not your average string ensemble. With professional backgrounds ranging from musical conservatory settings to adolescent rock bands, elements of both Carnegie Hall and “garage bands” contribute to the quartet’s unique “classical cocktail” of sound.
“I don’t think there is any group that does what we do,” Summer says. “We are a string group that makes people move in their seats and tap their feet.”
And in the Danzón production, the quartet will do just that. But the audience won’t be the only group moving its feet. The Chicago-based Luna Negra Dance
Theater Company brings its distinctive flavor of classical and contemporary dance to the stage. Founded in 1999, the internationally acclaimed dance troupe performs pieces of purely Latino origin. Collaborations with different visual artists, choreographers, and musicians – such as Turtle Island Quartet – create even more layers to the production.
The performance features the work of veteran choreographer and founding dancer, Eduardo Vilaro, along with string
arrangements from Turtle Island’s 2001 album also titled Danzón. The songs range from clarinetist Paquito D’Rivera’s Wapango to the Dizzy Gillespie jazz standard, A Night in Tunisia, which is the show finale and
for Luna Negra, a complete improvisation. In this song, names
are drawn out of a hat to decide the order the dancers will enter the
stage, and from there, it’s all up to each individual to make their movements flow –
or purposely not flow – together. “Every night we not only have a different audience, we have a
completely different show,” Summer says. As the dancers shake things up on stage, the quartet also takes
their craft to new places as they attempt to “be the music,” in a way. While performing a Hendrix arrangement, for example, the group emulates an electric guitar. And for Danzón, they must turn their string instruments into a type of Cuban percussion section – imitating the sounds of timbales and other Latin instruments.
“The challenge is straddling the line between being a gimmick and being ground breaking,” Summer says. “Whatever we play, we want to sound like the real thing.”
The production name, Danzón, is also the official dance of Cuba
Celebrating their 25th anniversary this year, Turtle Island Quartet’s multiple albums do not feature your typical Mozart or Haydn. Instead, the original arrangements explore the realms of rock n’ roll and jazz – with music by artists such as Jimi Hendrix and John Coltrane. More than your typical “cover band,” compositions by these legendary musicians are performed not by saxophone or electric guitar, but by two violins
(David Balakrishnan and Mads Tolling), viola (Jeremy Kittel), and cello (Mark Summer). No, Turtle Island is definitely not your average string ensemble. With professional backgrounds ranging from musical conservatory settings to adolescent rock bands, elements of both Carnegie Hall and “garage bands” contribute to the quartet’s unique “classical cocktail” of sound.
“I don’t think there is any group that does what we do,” Summer says. “We are a string group that makes people move in their seats and tap their feet.”
And in the Danzón production, the quartet will do just that. But the audience won’t be the only group moving its feet. The Chicago-based Luna Negra Dance
Theater Company brings its distinctive flavor of classical and contemporary dance to the stage. Founded in 1999, the internationally acclaimed dance troupe performs pieces of purely Latino origin. Collaborations with different visual artists, choreographers, and musicians – such as Turtle Island Quartet – create even more layers to the production.
The performance features the work of veteran choreographer and founding dancer, Eduardo Vilaro, along with string
arrangements from Turtle Island’s 2001 album also titled Danzón. The songs range from clarinetist Paquito D’Rivera’s Wapango to the Dizzy Gillespie jazz standard, A Night in Tunisia, which is the show finale and
for Luna Negra, a complete improvisation. In this song, names
are drawn out of a hat to decide the order the dancers will enter the
stage, and from there, it’s all up to each individual to make their movements flow –
or purposely not flow – together. “Every night we not only have a different audience, we have a
completely different show,” Summer says. As the dancers shake things up on stage, the quartet also takes
their craft to new places as they attempt to “be the music,” in a way. While performing a Hendrix arrangement, for example, the group emulates an electric guitar. And for Danzón, they must turn their string instruments into a type of Cuban percussion section – imitating the sounds of timbales and other Latin instruments.
“The challenge is straddling the line between being a gimmick and being ground breaking,” Summer says. “Whatever we play, we want to sound like the real thing.”
The production name, Danzón, is also the official dance of Cuba
See it: September 11, 7:30 pm. Danzón, featuring Turtle Island Quartet & Luna Negra Dance Theater
Company. Center Stage Series, Center for Faith and Life, Luther College, Decorah. Tickets are available September 2.
Details at www.centerstage.luther.edu{ }
phot
o by
Jay
Bla
kesb
erg
photo by Cheryl Mann 11
Appea
ranc
es 301 W. Water St.Decorah, Iowa563-382-2610
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– a form of Latin contra dance. Sticking to the traditional spirit of the music while also adding personal flair is vital to the success of both groups, and an especially good fit for Luna Negra. The company celebrates Latin heritage and also seeks to navigate through present issues pertaining to race and culture.
“We explore through dance what constitutes the ‘Latino’ experience in the 21st century – looking at such topics as identity, diversity, heritage, exile, and tradition,” says Luna Negra executive director, Joanna Naftali.
The troupe’s choreographers utilize Latino and Afro-Caribbean styles depending on their area of interest. But despite the specific Latino slant, the program’s universal themes can be applied to any culture.
“One hallmark piece of the show is about the Latino coming of age ceremony, ‘Quinceañera.’ Traditions such as this exist in all cultures,” says Naftali. “What we try to do is to get people to connect with their own identity and community. By presenting them with a statement of one culture, they can draw upon their own experiences and in many ways, they can relate.”
Luna Negra recognizes heritage and tradition as the backbone of an individual’s identity, and Naftali feels remembering and respecting tradition shapes the way we identify ourselves. Equally important, it provides an outline for our relation to others in a global community.
“As a society we are growing more and more diverse by the day – and cultural backgrounds shape the way we interact as a population,” Naftali says. “This creates a fusion of cultures that mingle together in a contemporary world filled with technology and commerce – much the
same way Luna Negra fuses traditional Latin styles with ballet and contemporary movement vocabulary.”
And also much the same way Luna Negra and Turtle Island fuse their styles for the performance of Danzón. It’s a collision of contemporary and traditional music and dance. Intoxicating Latin rhythms might cause you to tap your
feet. Sultry movements on stage may inspire you to enroll in tango lessons. Or maybe the Latino influence within Danzón will instill a sense of pride in your given heritage. (I mean, who doesn’t feel a little more Norwegian after watching the Nordic dancers?) But no matter what, it may be difficult to resist the urge to get up and danzón!
Susie Clark is a 2010 graduate of Luther College. As a native Minnesotan, she is a devoted Twins baseball fan. When not arguing with White Sox fans, her hobbies include playing viola, trail running, and reading.
HAVE A LISTEN!Turtle Island Quartet will
release a new album, “Have You Ever Been…?” August 24,
2010, featuring adaptive string arrangements based upon the compositions by guitar legend,
Jimi Hendrix.
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Celebrating the 13th annual Northeast Iowa Artists’ Studio Tour, regional artists will open their doors for a behind-the-scenes view into how their art is created. Running from October 1 to 3, this event explores many workspaces that are seldom seen or open to the general public. Nestled among the wooded hills and winding rivers are numerous top caliber, award winning, nationally traveling fine artists. The tour spans a 35-mile region around Decorah and is Iowa’s first and longest-running tour of artists’ studios in the state. 2010 showcases 42 artists in 33 locations, open daily from 10 am-5 pm.
Traveling through the region, you’ll discover photographers, painters, basket weavers, quilters, silversmiths, a woodcarver, fiber artists, kaleidoscope makers, a book illustrator and binder, sculptors, and more. Each artist’s studio space and techniques are as individual as the artist, and experiencing them first-hand is the foundation of the tour. Information about the artists, images of their art, details about the studios such as handicap accessible locations, plus a map and lodging and dining information are available in the tour brochure. Directions, more detailed maps, and GPS coordinates will be available for download at www.iowaarttour.com.
The Tour includes cultural and historic sites as well, among them Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, Seed Savers Exchange, and renovated schoolhouses. Plan your Saturday touring to include the “Harvest Festival” at Seed Savers Exchange, featuring seed saving workshops, hayrides, and more. And many artists will be holding raffles for their work in their studios affording you an opportunity to win art! For more information on participating artists and the artwork offered, click on “Win Art!” at www.iowaarttour.com.
This free-to-the–public event is self-supporting, funded by artist entry fees, sponsors, grants, donations, and advertising businesses. To obtain a brochure with the Tour map, call Winneshiek County Convention and Visitors Bureau at: 563-382-2023 or 1-800-463-4692 or email: [email protected]. For more complete information about the artists and ongoing events, visit www.iowaarttour.com.
NORTHEAST IOWA STUDIO TOUR, OCTOBER 1-3
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• aug
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Name: Douglas Dahlgren Age: 35 Restaurant: Signatures Restaurant & Visions Event Center Number of Years Cooking: 23 years – eight professionally Formal training or live-and-learn?I worked in the front of the house for a number of years before I made the decision to go to culinary school. I graduated from the Art Institutes International Minnesota. I was working in the kitchen full-time during school so I would say a fruitful mixture of both. What’s your earliest or most significant memory of cooking or being cooked for? I was about eight years old. My family had gotten this microwave and it came with a cookbook and some cooking vessels. One of them was this omelette maker that would have made any French chef snicker at the sight. I would make my breakfast of an “American cheese” omelette, toast and “Tang.”
S ignatures Restaurant and Visions Event Center is nestled next to Mississippi River limestone bluffs – and a golf course – just outside of Winona, Minnesota. Floor-to-ceiling windows make for scenic, all-seasons views and the food ranges from pub-fare to playful to full-on gourmet. The AAA Three Diamond Rated restaurant
serves dinner nightly, Sunday brunch, lunch Monday through Saturday, and lounge food as well.At brunch, they’ve got crepes, quiche, pesto benedict, oh my! And don’t forget about the chicken pot pie, which
you can also get at lunch. That, plus salads, sandwiches with house cut fries, salmon tortellini, and more.At dinner, why don’t you just go ahead and start off with the gourmet/Kitsch ants on a log? You know you want
to. Then maybe move on to the gutsy duck confit pizza or the fun-to-say baba ghanoush. For entrees, go local: the Bullfrog Fish Farm (Menomonie, MN) Rainbow Trout fillet is awesome, and the grass-fed Cowboy Ribeye by Earth Be Glad farm (Lewiston, MN) is “out of control,” says Chef Dahlgren.
Lounge fare isn’t nearly as fancy – grab a burger or a dog…or maybe the coconut shrimp cocktail… before you head out to hit a few balls. Is that how golfers say it? I’ll just stick to food. And interviews. Signatures head chef Douglas Dahlgren is one busy guy – but Inspire(d) managed to catch up with him, where else, but on Facebook. There he entertained us with tales of microwaved eggs dishes and may or may not have prompted my Googling “foie gras au torchon.” (Basically duck or goose liver, marinated and slathered on toast, FYI. I’d say it in French too.)
Intro by Aryn Henning Nichols
I even thought I could open a little cafe selling this menu out of our living room. It was, as I remember, quite good. Why did you decide to become a chef?I was tired of construction. Roofing in the winter is not fun at all. Playing the guitar wasn’t paying the bills. People were always saying I should look into cooking professionally. So I did, never thought I would be where I am. But, I’ve never been happier. What’s the best thing you’ve ever made? Hard question. I would say I haven’t made it yet. A good chef is always striving to learn more, to do things better than last night. It’s like the search for the Holy Grail. Hopefully before I pass on I will have reached that pinnacle to say, “This is the best thing I have ever made!” My Smokey Clam Chowder is pretty damn good though. Do you have any monumental food fails you’d like to share with us? A keen wit and a timer can save your [butt].
CH
EFON THEBLOCK
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All day long you’re busy taking care of everyoneelse. Take a few minutes to take care ofyourself. After all, you need to stay healthy
so you can be around to care for those you love.
Our experts offer women of all ages the mostadvanced healthcare, from gynecology andobstetrics to screening mammography* andmenopause education.
We want to partner with you to make your healtha priority.
To find the Gundersen Lutheran clinic nearestyou go to gundluth.org.
Women,
Are you up-to-dateon your wellness checks?• Annual wellness exam• Yearly mammograms after age 40• Colonoscopy after age 50, earlier if family history• Bone density test after age 65• Vaccinations• Laboratory screening (cholesterol and glucose)• Regular eye exams
make your health a
priority.
Women,make your health a
priority.
*Gundersen Lutheranoffers mammograms atthe Gundersen Lutheran –Decorah Clinic and PalmerLutheran in West Union.
116 Washington, Decorah563.382.0799
Day SpringSpa
why wait?
massage is good therapy
How about secret food indulgences you don’t normally talk about? Will you tell us?I love whipped brie and foie gras au torchon. Oh, wait that’s not the dirt you wanted...There are two things from my childhood that I sometimes indulge. White potato bread (with the flour on the crust), butter and miracle whip, Oscar Meyer bologna, and ice berg lettuce. The other is meatball Spaghetti-o’s and Velvetta, eaten with Cool Ranch Dorito’s. Don’t
ask. Needless to say I haven’t eaten either in months!
What’s your favorite:Ingredient: I have three. Fat (duck fat, pork fat, butter, cream, etc.), Salt, and the heavenly animal, the pig. Dish: I really enjoy Cassoulet. A great cassoulet takes at least two days to make. It’s
truly a labor of love. I’ll never forget the first time I had this dish, it was like a lost lover’s first kiss. I’ll never forget it. Cookbook: The first cookbook I ever read was, “The French Chef Cookbook” by Julia Child. She was an amazing woman.Random (or not so random) kitchen tool: Your chef knife is everything, and it better be sharp! (continued at right...)
Vegetable: I love sautéed brussel sprouts and grilled asparagus.Fruit: We grow some amazing apples around here… I was born in the “Apple Capitol of Minnesota.”
50Depot OutletThe
Monday-Friday 9-5 • Saturday 9-3
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Reusable clothing, books, & household goods.
Do you like saving the earth AND getting a great deal?
563-382-2700•105 Railroad Ave•Decorah, IowaGently used donations accepted at the back of the building
Renae McIntosh lost 50 pounds in 5 months!
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Meetings (optional) on Tuesdays, 5:30 pm, Java John’s, Decorah
For the American Brass Quintet, in addition to five (of
course!), 50 is the magic number. They’ve performed for 50 years, recorded more than 50 albums, and traveled to all 50 United States. Not to mention Europe, Central and South America, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. In fact, the group has traveled to and performed in practically every one of the world’s major cities, concert halls, and festivals. And on Friday, September 24, they’ll travel to Decorah for the second Luther College Center Stage Series performance.
Dubbed the “high priests of brass” by Newsweek, “positively breathtaking” by the New York Times, and “of all the brass quintets, the most distinguished” by the American Record Guide, the American Brass Quintet (ABQ) is undoubtedly one of the premier chamber ensembles in recent history. When the quintet gave its first public performance December 11, 1960, brass chamber music was still pretty new to concert-goers. But today, their accolades stretch far and wide, and the
group can even boast the largest brass chamber music discography. Ever.
Playing contemporary brass music right next to more traditional scores has become a trademark of ABQ, along with a serious dedication to education and promotion of brass chamber music. They have been the ensemble in residence at The Julliard School since 1987 and Aspen Music Festival since 1970.
ABQ is currently comprised of Raymond Mase (trumpet), Kevin Cobb (also trumpet), David Wakefield (horn), Michael Powell (trombone), and John D. Rojak (bass trombone).
See the American Brass Quintet perform Friday, September
24 at 7:30 pm in the Center for Faith and Life on the Luther College campus.
Tickets are on sale starting September 2 at the Luther College Box Office, (563) 387-1357, open 9-10:30 a.m. and 11am – 3 pm on weekdays with extended hours on Thursdays until 7 pm. Tickets may also be purchased online at boxoffice.luther.edu.
photo by Peter Schaaf
Friday, Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m. Center for Faith and Life.
american brass quintetsee it:
13TH ANNUALNORTHEAST IOWA ARTISTS’
Oct 1, 2 & 3
A scenic, free, drive yourself tourall within 35 miles of Decorah.
Many Artists are award-winning and national caliber.
Artwork for sale • Open 10-5
Brochure w/map at locations,Decorah Chamber & web-site.
In Decorah... 563-382-2023
1-800-463-4692www.IowaArtTour.com
Kaleidoscopes.. .
Pottery.. .
Jewelry.. .
• 42 ARTISTS at• 33 LOCATIONS
& much MORE!
Painting.. .
IOWA’S
LARG
EST A
ND OL
DEST
STU
DIO T
OUR.
MAN
Y STU
DIOS
ARE
OPEN
TO TH
E PUB
LIC O
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OR TH
IS EV
ENT!
The Decorah Regional Arts Council (DRAC) is in the middle of an exciting new re-branding process that is “powered by the people.”
The multi-step endeavor began with a revised mission statement. The new and improved arts council will focus on community building, enabling its members to network, foster partnerships, and create stronger art-related events, cultural activities, and educational opportunities in the region, while still maintaining its non-profit status and current business structure.
The next step is the “people” part: a naming contest. Since the “artists formerly known as DRAC” want the council to be made of and for the people, they thought putting the new name in the hands of the public would be a great start. Any and everyone has been invited to visit artistsformerlyknownasdrac.com to submit their name ideas. The contest is open until August 15, and there is no limit on the number of names one can submit. There is also a section that welcomes comments and thoughts for an ideal future arts council.
The council will vote on its favorite name, and the winner will get more than just a pat on the back. They get a prize package filled with mini arts and culture vacations around the region – in towns like Decorah, Lansing, McGregor, Spillville, and even the Lanesboro/Harmony area. For these vacations, the winner will get night stays, gift certificates, restaurant vouchers, and more. It’s basically a five-day vacation – split up however the winner would like.
The new name and winner will be announced at the “Super Swanky Launch Party” Friday September 17 at the Hotel Winneshiek’s Steyer Opera House. The free and open-to-the-public party runs from 7 to 11 pm with a “Kids Dance Hour” from 7 to 8 pm. After the name announcement at 8 pm, the celebratory fun will continue on into the night with a rockin’ deejay. Party-goers will be the first to hear the exciting new name.
The evening will also represent the council’s annual meeting. New board members will be nominated and voted upon. It will also mark the launch of a membership drive and a new website that will act as the arts council’s virtual gallery while also highlighting the membership and helping artists network with each other.
The arts council rebranding project is sponsored by Luther College and Inspire(d) Media, with support from Decorah Bank and Trust and the Hotel Winneshiek.
?
Click and submit your names before August 15. artistsformerlyknownasdrac.com.
Then come to the Super Swanky Launch Party September 17, where the winning name will be revealed (plus there will be dancing and fun)!
Written by Aryn Henning Nichols, DRAC member and advocate
SEE PRIZE PACKAGE INFO ON THE NEXT PAGE!
say my name, say my nameCOME UP WITH THE BEST COUNCIL NAME: WIN A SWEET PRIZE!american brass quintet
17
Home-baked bread & treats!
100% fruit juice smoothies & home-made light fare
Travel mugs, coffee beans & gift certificates!
Home-baked bread & treats!
100% fruit juice smoothies made light fare
Travel mugs, coffee beans & gift certificates!
Mon.-Sat. 6:30am-5:30pm • Sun. 7:30am-12pm
Java John’s • 400 W. Water, Decorah • 563-382-5690
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1510 Laurel Drive ■ Decorah, Iowa [email protected]
Antiquing: it’s not just fun, it’s recycling!
Nancy LerdallOpen by chance or
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Find an amazing assortment of treasures at:801 East Water Street, Decorah, Iowa
563-382-8806
WANT TO HELP?The council – headed by DRAC
president Lisa Lantz – is seeking volunteers to help with the launch. Set-
up crew, party staff, and take-down crew are all needed. Interested parties should
contact Lisa at [email protected].
The PRIZE PACKAGE, currently worth more than $1,000 (!), will continue to grow up until the Launch Party September 17 (if you’re a business that would like to be involved, please email [email protected]). Here’s an idea about what’s in the Re-brand Prize Package so far. Enjoy mini-vacations around your region!
Decorah, Iowa1 night stay at the Hotel Winneshiekwww.hotelwinn.com1 night stay at Dug Road Innwww.dugroadinn.com$25 gift certificate to Rubaiyat Restaurantwww.rubaiyatrestaurant.com$100 gift certificate to Agora Artswww.agoraarts.com$50 gift certificate to Seed Saverswww.seedsavers.org$25 gift certificate to Winneshiek Wildberry Winerywww.wwwinery.com
Spillville, Iowa1 night stay at D&R’s Old World Inndroldworldinn.com
Lansing, Iowa1 night stay at The Loft in Lansing, Iowawww.lansingiowaloft.com
McGregor, Iowa1 night stay at the Lamp Post Inn and Gallerywww.innandgallery.com
Lanesboro and Harmony, Minnesota1 night stay at Lanesboro’s Cottage House Innwww.cottagehouseinn.com2 tickets to a show at the Commonweal Theatrewww.commonwealtheatre.org2 tickets to a show at Lanesboro Arts Center’s St. Mane Theatre • www.lanesboroarts.org$35 gift certificate to QUARTER/quarter Restaurant in Harmonywww.quarterquarter.com
Check artistsformerlyknownasdrac.com for updates!
18
Hurry! You only have until August 15 to submit your name ideas to help re-brand YOUR arts council!
7-11 pm fridayseptember 17, 2010
steyer opera house / hotel winn / decorah
super
swanky
launch
party
the NEWRegional
Arts Council at our:
Celebrate
FREE!
sweet
DJ!
We'll announce
the Driftless Area’s new arts council
name at 8 pm!
Exciting!
Kid Dance Party 7-8 pm!
Click.Win Hotel stays, restaurant vouchers, gift certificates & more in towns l ike Decorah, McGregor, Lansing, Spil lvi l le,
& Lanesboro. Only 1 prize. Only 1 winning name.
artistsformerlyknownasdrac.com
The winning name gets an
AMAZING prize!
inspire(d) the
inspire dmedia
theatre /dance
at center for the arts decorah, iowa
Luther College
2010 FALL SHOWS!Choreography of Douglass Dunn, Directed by Dunn, featuring Jane HawleySeptember 25, 7:30 p.m.
Servant of Two Masters by Carlo GoldoniDirected by Robert LarsonNovember 12, 13, 18 & 19 at 7:30 pm & November 13 & 20 at 1:30 pm Tickets @ Luther
College box office 563.387.1357 &
1 hour before shows at Jewel Theatre
$10. adult /$5. children under 12
See you there!
12
2010-11 Season details at www.luther.edu/theatredance
Carving wood, for Paul Lambrecht, is as familiar as taking a walk in the park. The Lanesboro, Minnesota, resident remembers creating little wooden boats when he was just 10 years old. And since Lambrecht’s
father was the industrial arts teacher at the local high school in his hometown of Watertown, Minnesota, the craft was always very accessible. It truly was love-at-first carving, and Lambrecht hasn’t taken a break since.
The now nationally acclaimed artist honed in on his skill throughout high school, then took classes at the Minnesota College of Art and Design as well as the Minnetonka Art Center. With self-discipline and practice, Lambrecht
has found success as a full time woodcarver since 1980, exhibiting his work all over the country.Fast-forward to 2010. Lambrecht and his family are thriving in Lanesboro and
have been for the last 12 years, where he works to achieve the balance between professional artist and all-star family man. Lambrecht makes sure his career
doesn’t interrupt any important tasks – like shuttling kids to summer activities.“Could we take a short break?” he asks politely mid-interview. “I’ve got to take
my 7-year-old daughter to kickball.”Art Show trips are often family affairs too – typically, his wife, if not the whole
clan, will travel together as Lambrecht exhibits his work. He attends eight to 10 fairs each year and has shown in over 25 states including major cities
like St. Louis, Kansas City, Dallas, Des Moines, Milwaukee and Denver. Most recently, he showed at the Cherry Creek Art Festival
in Denver, Colorado, and the Old Town Art Fair in Chicago, Illinois.
“The responses from people at shows inspires me, they inspire me to try new pieces, new ideas,” Lambrecht says. “People laugh and smile at
the sculptures and that is a very good thing to see.”
By Lauren Kraus
It’s All Wood.LANESBORO ARTIST CARVES UNIQUE NICHE IN THE SCULPTURE WORLD
Medicap Pharmacy in Decorah is committed to providing a high level of care.
We offer a Medication Therapy Management (MTM) program that reviews:
- Treatment goals - Drug interactions
- Safe and effective medication use - Generic alternatives
Our Compounding Services include:
- Hormone Replacement - Veterinary
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Call us at 382-8765 for more information.
Your Medicap Pharmacists: Lori Rissman, Sue Burks and Mark Branum
The works themselves are made from local basswood that Lambrecht gets from an Amish farm in Canton, Minnesota. He likes basswood because it is readily available and fairly soft and easy to work with. After letting the wood air-dry for one year, he draws the desired pattern on a block and cuts it out with a band saw. The process continues by shaping the wood with various knives and gouges. He uses a foredom tool (a wood carving power tool) to work on the smaller details and odd-shaped corners. Great effort is put into sanding the piece, all of which is done entirely by hand.
Once the carving is complete, Lambrecht applies acrylic paint and various wood stains. Lacquer is then layered, giving the sculpture a shine evocative of stone or glass. Lambrecht typically spends two to three weeks on the larger wooden sculptures and a day on the smaller sculptures, and they are anywhere from a foot to four feet tall. Working solo on every aspect of his pieces, he keeps very busy preparing roughly 75 sculptures for the larger art shows. During long hours alone in the studio, he keeps himself entertained by listening to books on tape
– generally nonfiction travel literature – going through an amazing 100 a year.
Lambrecht’s realistic, detailed sculptures represent his passion for nature, especially birds and frogs. “Being outside helps me recharge; it feeds my artwork,” he says. “I’ll get ideas from seeing wildlife then quickly write them down for future pieces.” He also gathers inspiration from work by other artists. “There are a lot of creative people out there!”
Lambrecht’s pursuit of a very labor-intensive and specific style of wood sculpting makes him a unique artist in this country. His sculptures are incredibly detailed, vibrant, and thought-provoking, leaving the viewer to marvel. Come check out his work for yourself! The exhibit, Sculptures from the Forest, will be at the Lanesboro Art Center galleries (formally Cornucopia) at 103 Parkway Ave N. between August 14 and October 17. There’s an opening reception and a chance to meet the artist August 14 from 6 to 8 pm
The exhibit is sponsored by Inspire(d) Media and F&M Community Bank, and supported by the Minnesota State Arts Board. The gallery is open seven days a week: Monday through Thursday 10 am to 5 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am to 7 pm and Sunday 11 am – 3 pm. Enjoy!
Lauren Kraus was definitely an artist in her previous life and now just daydreams about it. Talking with cool folks like Paul Lambrecht is definitely inspiring!
21
Research has shown that only 9¢ of each $1 spent at a traditional food market goes to the producer,
compared to 80-90¢ at a farmers market. Think of it as investment in your local economy.
You know your doctor.You know your dentist.Do you know your farmer?
Where to �ind Local Food?• Visit your local farmers’ market
• Talk to your area grocers• Use the Local Food Directory to
�ind a farmer near youVisit our website:
www.iowafreshfood.com, click on Finding Local Food
Learn more at www.iowafreshfood.com
Try it! The Northeast Iowa Food &
Farm (NIFF) Coalition is a diverse group of farmers,
community leaders, & residents in Allamakee, Chickasaw, Clayton,
Fayette, Howard, & Winneshiek counties working toward the development & marketing of
locally grown agricultural products to enhance the lives of local citizens. The NIFF Coalition
is part of the NE Iowa Food & Fitness Initiative – a partner of
the W.K. Kellogg Foundation
Food & Community
program.
Fitness Initiative – a partner of the W.K. Kellogg
CREATIVE MIDWEST FARE
120 Washington St., Decorah, Ia120 Washington St., Decorah, Ia
Serving lunch and dinner Mon - Sat • 563-382-3067
• Fresh seasonal menus• Great wine & beer selection
• Cocktails made with fresh squeezed juices• Housemade daily soups & dessertsRESERVATIONS
ACCEPTED
RELAX, REJUVENATE, REWARD YOURSELF!
601 W. Main St. Decorah, Iowa • 563-382-9355 • dugroadinn.comDUG ROAD INN, a B&B that Inspires
Visitors to Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum have the new opportunity to enhance their visit by taking a guided tour of the main building. Mondays through Saturdays at 10:30 am and 12:30 pm, as well as Sundays at 12:30 pm and Thursdays at 6:30 pm, a tour guide is available to share the stories behind the museum’s remarkable collection of 24,000 artifacts.
Haven’t heard of Vesterheim yet? Well you should! “USA Today” named Vesterheim one of “10 great places in the nation to admire American folk art.” This national treasure uses the Norwegian-American experience as a lens to explore the diversity of an immigrant nation. Inside you’ll find a cabin made from a single tree, a sailboat that crossed the Atlantic Ocean, elaborate costumes, colorful painting, silver wedding crowns, woven tapestries, and even intricately carved butter molds.
“The lives of the people who settled this nation were often as colorful as their folk art and their stories speak through the objects they left behind,” says Steve Johnson, Vesterheim’s Executive Director. “Guided tours will bring the museum to life for our guests.”
The usual guided tours of the museum’s Open Air Division will continue through Oct. 31 every afternoon at 1:30 pm.
Vesterheim also offers classes in Norwegian culture and folk art, events, tours to Norway, and educational programs for children and adults.
From May 1 through Oct. 31, Vesterheim is open daily, 9 am to 5 pm; Thursdays until 8 pm. Thanks to Decorah Bank and Trust of Decorah admission is free every Thursday, and from now through Labor Day, September 6, 2010, Vesterheim will also be offering free admission to all active duty military personnel and their families through the Blue Star Museums program, a partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and museums across America.
For more information on the museum’s exhibits, activities, and membership opportunities, or for a schedule of winter hours, visit vesterheim.org, call (563) 382-9681, or write to Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, 523 W. Water St., P.O. Box 379, Decorah, IA, 52101.
VESTERHEIM BRINGS MUSEUM TO LIFE PLUS ADDS MILITARY FREE ADMISSION
22
FAVORITE SWINGSThese are a few of my
• Made locally!• Efficiently built for reasonable pricing
• Curved back & seat for extra comfort• Sturdy, quality
lumber for a long-lasting swing
Starting at just $125
Contact Ron for more information: 563-382-5467 or [email protected]
A note from Adam Wiltgen, KPVL General Manager
89.1 FM KPVL – Northeast Iowa’s new community radio station – now has its main broadcast studio located in downtown Decorah. A second site in Postville serves as a volunteer production and training studio.
The station is seeking community members interested in getting involved with on-air programming. From hosting a show to reporting or announcing news, there are several different ways to become a part of KPVL, and getting involved can be simple and rewarding.
KPVL is focused on helping local residents use the medium of radio to express their thoughts, opinions, and talents. With flexible one-on-one training, as well as access to facilities and equipment for self-led practice, community members can develop – at their own pace – the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to produce or be a part of any type of high-quality radio broadcast.
A large personal record collection or a deep knowledge of a particular music style would be welcomed, but are not requirements. Shows don’t have to be genre specific – someone interested in telling a story could host a music program that crosses genres with a unique theme or narrative.
Programs don’t have to include music either; one could choose to help others tell their stories by producing a public affairs show. There’s also the possibility of an expert in a field like gardening, bicycling, poetry, theater, finance, ceramics, sports, or citizen journalism who wants to tell a story through a weekly segment that may last only a few minutes. Lastly, the savvy local entrepreneur might enjoy the opportunity to simply get their name and voice out into the public by occasionally reading the morning community announcements.
As a regional station, KPVL exists to educate, entertain, and stimulate its audience by building community, connecting people, and communicating the human experience. Although the station is developing, the support and involvement of interested community members today will fuel the growth necessary for the station to truly fulfill its mission tomorrow.
To learn more about getting involved in Northeast Iowa Community Radio contact the General Manager, Adam M. Wiltgen via email at [email protected] or by phone at 563-387-6920 or 563-864-7549.
YOU, TOO, CAN DO RADIO
insp
ire(
d) m
agaz
ine
• aug
ust/
sept
embe
r 2
01
0
the
dre
amBy Kristine Kopperud Jepsen
Plant
grow here
24
S tarting a business – virtually any enterprise – takes guts, sweat equity… and money. Sometimes lots of it. But thanks to a new competition for Iowa entrepreneurs, Dream Big, Grow Here, $1,000 of that start-up cash is a little easier to land.
Dream Big is an initiative of MyEntre.net, a community of Iowa entrepreneurs, small business owners, and service providers online, based at the University of Northern Iowa. The contest invites prospective small-business owners over age 18 to submit their business idea through a simple sign-up at dreambiggrowhere.com. Once registered, “Dreamers” – ranging from guitar repairmen to hospice providers – vie online for “votes” each day, with a winner announced at the end of the month.
z z
z z
Nestled in the heart of historic Decorah
Fresh &Delicious English-style tea room
From scratch daily:Delightful scones, tarts, &
desserts, entrees, soups, salads, & sandwiches!
Tues-Sat: 11 - 3Store opens at 10
113 W. Water St.Decorah,
563-382-3795hartsteaandtarts.com
zzz zzz
A Decorah dining experience not to miss!
(pho
to b
y A
ryn
Hen
ning
Nic
hols
)
25
“It’s like American Idol meets chain letter,” says July contestant Rachelle Branum, founder of The Clay Studio in downtown Decorah. Between filling sippy cups for her young children, getting outdoors before summer splashes on by, and teaching pottery at ArtHaus (Decorah’s center for creativity of all sorts), Branum found herself online, watching Dream Big’s vote tallies (updated hourly) and wording new pleas for “votes,” e-mailed daily to friends and their friends and their friends.
“I’m a pretty modest person and have a hard time throwing myself out there asking people to vote for me,” Branum admits.
Dream Big program manager Dan Beenken says that’s the point. “You to have your own skin in the game, obviously, because $1,000 only begins to fill the need for capital for small business. Those who are good marketers are going to be successful entrepreneurs, whether they’re proposing a nonprofit or a turning a hobby into something profitable.”
Branum, a Cresco native who studied art education at UNI and made her way in art communities from San Antonio to Minneapolis, is admittedly a little manic about creative enterprises. Since moving to Decorah three years ago with her husband, Mark, and two children, she has built Wise Owl Designs, an eco-friendly line of appliquéd clothing launched with Decorah-native-come-home Lea Lovelace (wiseowldesigns.com). She also
Sept. at
ArtHaus!
www.arthausdecorah.orgDetails online!
sept 17: bluegrass in the courtyard the blue roots, 7pm, $4, byob
sept. 3: first fridaynew work by artist
ben moore, 7pm, free
sept 10-11: dance performance "solo" choreographed by amanda
hamp, 8 & 10pm, $10/$5
Open Mon-�urs 10-9, Fri & Sat 10-10, closed Sun
Jason Duranceau, owner313 College Drive Decorah, Iowa • 563.382.8300
wine. beer. liquor.
cigars. kegs.Open Mon-�urs 10-9, Fri
Best selection in town on:
Ask us for a great wine recommendation!
312 West Water StreetDecorah, Iowa 52101
563.382.4666www.oneotacoop.com
Monday - Saturday 8:30 - 8:30Sunday 10:00 - 7:00
• deli• produce• grocery• body care• supplements
• bulk• cheese• bakery• wine/beer
Fresh. local. organic.
The Grand Opening of the Clay Studio is Saturday, August 28, 10 am to 1pm!
(photo by Aryn Henning Nichols).
All you need to know for food ‘n’ fun
NE Iowa & SW Wisconsin L VE
An online magazine featuring giveaways, the “food ‘n’ fun calendar” and special o�ers
All you need to know for food ‘n’ fun
NE Iowa & SW Wisconsin
An online magazine featuring giveaways, the “food ‘n’ fun calendar” and special o�ers
26
makes and sells soywax candles and has begun dabbling in quilting, creating funky pieces to sell on Etsy.com.
But that’s all warm-up, really, for The Clay Studio at 207 Washington Street, Decorah, a community space dedicated to throwing, painting, glazing, and firing clay pottery. Having scrimped together purchase of a vintage building from savings and some shifts in buying habits, Branum intends the space to host ArtHaus pottery classes as well as any curious walk-in guest looking to start a project.
And she does mean anyone: “Residents who like to dabble or are looking for something fun to do with families and friends, those who have taken a clay class and have the ‘bug,’ Luther students who want to learn more about clay but can’t fit in a 3-hour class, and visitors who are looking for something to do after a bike ride while their husbands are fishing,” she says. “I truly believe everyone has a creative side that can benefit from being nurtured.”
OCTOBER 1, 2, 7, 8, 9: 7:30 PM
MATINEES:SEPTEMBER 30 2 PMOCTOBER 3: 2 PM
THE OPERA HOUSE PLAYERS
PRESENT:
Elkader Opera House
Music & lyrics by Cole Porter
For tickets & info: call 563-873-2378, visit
Moser Pharmacy, or OperaHousePlayers.com
Information and registration • lutheranfestivalofwriting.org
October 29–31, 2010Luther College, Decorah, Iowa• Presentations, readings, and panel discussions
featuring 18 new and 12 returning authors• Friendly atmosphere, beautiful campus• All writers and readers welcome
KeynOte speaKers Award-winning poet Robert Cording andNational Book Award finalist Rene Steinke
StoRieS ANd poemS to illumiNAte ouR liveS
As a medium, clay welcomes both beginners, who might paint a pre-formed piece, and artisans, who start from scratch, Branum says. “We have such a natural draw to clay as humans. It is a material with such a history and can be found nearly everywhere. I remember throwing [pottery] in Mr. McMahon’s art class at Crestwood with clay that he had dug himself here in Northeast Iowa. Needless to say, my hands were bleeding when I was done from the pebbles in it, but it was a memorable connection to the
earth.”Now
Branum has “both feet wet” and is elbow-deep in small-business problem-
solving. “I invested in outlets for six [electric pottery] wheels, but at $1,000 a pop, now I need help affording them,” she says, for example. She also plans to restore the historic building’s original murals and facilitate an art ambassador program for
young people, combining creative impulse and community service.She heard about Dream Big, Grow Here through a business development listserv but
archived the idea thinking she didn’t have time to type up the entry requirements. Turns out, there aren’t many, and Branum created her entry “page” in less than 30 minutes (visit dreambiggrowhere.com/vote and search by “Voting Leaders”). Then, she tapped into an expanding network of supporters on Facebook, LinkedIn and other networking sites, reminding each contact that they may vote once per day. Voting ended just as this magazine was going to print - the Clay Studio came in second. But Branum can be reached at [email protected] post-contest, and more information about the studio can be found at www.theclaystudiodecorah.com.
“Dream Big is designed to give anybody with a passion for a business idea a chance,” says Beenken. “It’s a huge avenue for awareness of the challenges of small-business. When ‘voters’ hear what contestants are doing, they’re reminded of the people and processes that make Iowa communities what they are.”
Contestants who don’t win can reapply, and everyone is again eligible for the big giveaway in December 2010 – a shot at $10,000.
B y that time, another Decorah native and Dream Big
contestant, Britney Bakken, will be ready to use it.
Bakken, a farm girl who grew up on home-raised vegetables and meats, competed in Dream Big’s first challenge in June 2010, finishing second by just a handful of votes. Her business, Eat and Be Merry, will be the local-foods version of Meals-on-Wheels for Decorah-area elderly, families, and residents with disabilities, particularly people re-energizing after hospitalization.
“I believe that healthy food is very important for everyone, but there also times when nutrition is truly essential, when the body is healing,” she explains. She tested her theory in 2007-08 working as a personal care provider for an elderly resident struggling with aphasia (a disorder affecting speech). She began cooking his meals from fresh local ingredients and made sure he got enjoyable exercise outdoors. In two months time, the gentleman’s speech therapist asked what Bakken had been doing to so markedly improve his condition.
She also enjoys the challenge of cooking for special diets. “One older client and I used to arm-wrestle over the salt shaker because he wasn’t supposed to eat much of it. I
The trip from
Decorah to
Elkader is
61 miles.
The trip from Iowato Algeria is
4892 miles.
MAKE THE TRIP.
Make dining an experience again. Elkader, IA • 563-245-1992
Elkader • 563-245-1992
Make dining an experience again. Elkader, IA • 563-245-1992
(photo by Aryn Henning Nichols)
28
A Siberian born designer, Mashka began her career in fashion as a buyer for one of
New York City's most upscale boutiques. All of Mashka jewelry is handcrafted
in the USA from domestic and imported semi-precious stones
and fine metals.
August:Trunk Show with
Mashka Jewelry
the
loft
in l
ansing, iow
a
Water view, full kitchen, & WiFi
Beautifully decorated
61 North 3rd StreetLansing, IA 52151
For more information & reservations call:
563.382.8546 or email [email protected]
Enjoy the beautiful fall leaves from
the quaint village of Lansing, Iowa, nestled
between bluffs along the mighty Mississippi.
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT GETAWAY?
Great for family reunions, birthdays,
weekend trips, & more!
ended up infusing oils with garlic and mixed herbs to coax him to eat vegetables again. He was shocked that they could be so flavorful without salt.”
“In those moments, I realized I could impact and change the health of clients,” she says. “Decorah and the surrounding areas have a large quantity of quality local foods that can better the health and livelihood of our communities – let us cook, eat, and feel better!”
Competing in Dream Big helped Bakken broadcast her idea to potential funding sources and confirm the community’s need for it – a gratifying experience, she says. Now she’s building clientele, searching out commercial kitchen space, and expanding her knowledge of food and cooking, having enrolled in more nutrition classes. Keep tabs on her progress at www.eatandbemerry.com (coming soon), or contact her at [email protected].
“Any time is a good time to start a business,” Beenken says. “Our Dreamers are believers in what they do, and they’re not waiting for economic or personal timing to be ‘right.’ We’re proud to be a first step in making those ideas happen.”
As a founder of Grass Run Farm (100% local meats), Kristine Jepsen is no stranger to the challenges of small-business building. Most of her days are evenly divided between bookkeeping, marketing via phone and the Web, and refilling the coffee pot. Often, though, someone will randomly remind her that, along with her soul, she sells meat that’s tasty, local and very much appreciated. And that’s why she does it.
Britney’s friend, Hannah Arendt, enjoys fresh, local food too! (photo by Hannah’s mother Alexandra White, Decorah.)
29
11:30:Iowa's Progress As A National Leader in Energy Independence with the Office of Energy Independence
12:30:How to Create A Better World Every Day with Brett Johnson, author of “The Better World Handbook”
1:30:The Winneshiek Energy District with Andy Johnson
2:30:Values & Scale in the Local Foods Marketplace with Chris Blanchard of Flying Rutabaga Works & Rock Spring Farm
3:30:Wind Power for Farms, Schools & Business with Alicia Leinberger of Seventh Generation Energy Systems
GREENexpokdec digIN
August 22, 11 am - 4 pmWinneshiek County Fairgrounds
KDEC Green Expo Education Tent!
FREE! OPEN TO EVERYONE!The Green Expo will answer questions & give information
to all interested in local agriculture, sustainable living, conserving energy, saving money, reducing environmental
impact in ways big & small, & all things “green.”
PLUS:
KIDS GREEN ALLEY Let your child explore & learn
about “green.” Lots of fun!
FRESH, LOCAL FOOD BOOTHS with Oneota Food Co-op and more!
INDOOR AND OUTDOOR VENDOR BOOTHS: businesses and organizations from the Tri-State area will answer your questions and offer up sustainable solutions for daily living
that will help you and your family live a little, or a lot, greener.
Details at www.kdecradio.com
2nd annual
Decorah, Iowa
Green can be so much more than a pretty color these days. It’s a sustainable way of living, a monetary growth, and often times, it’s both. At the second annual “Dig IN: the Decorah Iowa Green INitiative,” home and business
owners, experts, and volunteers will show you how to bring “green” into your life AND wallet.
Celebrating the Decorah area as leaders in green initiatives, DigIN features off the grid homes and sustainable farm tours, live music, a film screening, an expert-filled green expo, local foods and more. Last year’s kick-off festival brought in nearly 500 registrants from five states, and more than 700 people trekked through KDEC Radio’s Green Expo. The Winneshiek County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau (WCCVB) is delighted to invite everyone back to the Decorah area August 20-22 for this fun and educational festival, this year full of new homes, farms, and ideas on being green.
Clip on one of the cool new DigIN buttons – it’s your pass to all the weekend fun – and tour the countryside and beautiful streets of Decorah learning about bio-diesel, solar and wind energy, hoop houses, community gardening and more. You can even check out a home tour during an audit in progress and see an economic analysis of the savings – an excellent demonstration of how to retrofit a home and finance the upgrades at the same time. Local food will also be on hand throughout the entire weekend at participating DigIN restaurants, each highlighting the region’s wares through special menus. Get to town early to enjoy a tasty meal before DigIN’s official kick off, a screening of “No Impact Man” sponsored by Decorah Bank and Trust.
Register online at digindecorah.com to get your DigIN button, full access to a program guide, and a map for home and farm tours. Registration is $10 for adults and free for kids 18 and under. The first 250 registrants will receive an insulated cooler filled with goodies! Pick up your packet at the Visitors Center (507 W. Water St., downtown Decorah) Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm, or at the Hotel Winneshiek Lobby Friday, from 6 to 9 pm. Find more information at www.digindecorah.com.
Check out the next few pages for ideas on how to spend your DigIN weekend!
Margaret’s Clothing210 W. Water St, Decorah
563-382-8208Mon. to Sat. 9-5 Thurs. ‘til 8 p.m.
Check out Margaret’s Boutique on Facebook.
Fashion & Accessories from
to
Marg
aret’s C
lothing
mfabulousfall!
Promoting breast cancer awareness & providing free mammograms to uninsured women in our area for more
than a decade!
Jackets, vests, mother-of-the-
bride & little black dresses,
jewelry, accessories, fun boots, & MORE!
m
FUNFANCY
m
Celebration of life!
Join us for
m
Don’t miss PHENOM this fall!
digINthe decorah iowa green INitiative
Can you dig it?
31
BEST Date Night Restaurant\Happy Hour Burger
Breakfast
Date Night Restaurant\Happy Hour Burger
Breakfast
Date Night Restaurant\Happy Hour Burger
Breakfast
Voted
Taste the best!117 W. Water Street
Decorah, Iowa
bar menu also available
dinner: wed-sat open at 5 sunday brunch: 9-1
lunch: wed-fri 11-1:30
563.382.WINE
www.rubaiyatrestaurant.com
reservations appreciated
find us on facebook!
a.) You’re early. That’s great! Drop your stuff at your Hotel, B&B, or campsite and get out there! This is your chance to check out all Decorah has to offer. Grab your bike or rent one from Decorah Bicycles or Oneota Cycles and hit the trails – mountain or paved. Or put a canoe in the Upper Iowa for a scenic paddle. Not feeling active just yet? Check out the great shops downtown or grab a cup of coffee at Magpie, Java John’s or the Co-op and take in the sights. OR, if you’re feeling the need for some relaxation, get a massage. I would.
b.) You left right after work, so you could get to Decorah in time for the festivities. I bet you’re hungry! Go hit one of the amazing restaurants in town – many are offering special menus full of local fare in honor of DigIN such as Rubaiyat, Albert’s, McCaffrey’s Dolce Vita, T-Bock’s, Hart’s Tea & Tart’s, and the Oneota Co-op! See page 35 for details.
c.) You couldn’t get away on Friday, so you’re just arriving in Decorah Saturday morning. That’s cool! We totally understand busy schedules. Drop your stuff in your Hotel, B&B, or campsite, put on some comfy shoes, and head to the Winneshiek County Visitor’s Bureau, 507 West Water Street – there you’ll find all the info you need to get started.
I.i’ve Made it to Decorah! Woot!
Feed Me!You’ve got so MANY options for great food in Decorah, with several highlighting local fare through special menu items created just for DigIN. Check ‘em out on the next page!
IV. Which Way Do I Go?There isn’t one RIGHT way to take the DigIN tours, but I gave you a few OPTIONS here. Try one out or be wild and go your own path. So. You say:
a.) Nice. I like your stamina. The tours begin at 1 pm and end at 5 pm, so I would get going right after lunch, planning to arrive at your first destination by 1 pm. With a fair amount of driving through the beautiful countryside of Northeast Iowa, it’s a marathon of a day, but so worth it. Here’s what I would do, either forward or backwards:Decorah start/end1. Kittleson Residence2. Quick 5-minute stop: the famous Sattre Store! It’s in the middle of nowhere, but they’ve got Spring Grove soda and all sorts of random fun. You’ll pass right by it, so you might as well stop…3. Rock Spring Farm4. Rock Cedar Ranch5. Hart Residence6. Energy Audit in Progress– Blower Door Demos: 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30Decorah start/end(Note: since number 6 is located in Decorah, it could be moved to either end of the tour.)
I took Friday afternoon off!
I couldn’t wait for the clock to hit 5!
I got on the road first thing Saturday!
By Aryn Henning Nichols
“I’m doin’ ‘em all!”
“I only want to do homes.”
“I only want to do farms.”
DiggingINgoin’ green is an adventure! We thought
we’d help with a few tips and ideas.
See the official digIN map or go to digindecorah.com for details
about homes & farms.
The second annual Decorah Iowa Green INitiative is this August 20 through 22, and boy, are we excited! Last year one of the
most frequent comments from the nearly 500 attendees was, “There was just so much to do, we didn’t know where to start!” As Decorah “junkies,” we here at Inspire(d) thought we’d help you out
with a few different directions.
II. Register!a) Movies and popcorn? Yes please! No Impact Man is screening at the Hotel Winneshiek at 8 pm. It’s a great documentary following a New York family that attempts to create no impact for one year. They give up TV, electricity, and even toilet paper in this wild experiment. Go early ‘cause registration kicks off in the Hotel Winneshiek lobby at 6 – get your free cooler if you were one of the lucky 250 who registered online early – and grab your cool new DigIN button, the official pass to all the weekend events. Attendees are encouraged to head up to the Opera House for social hour before the film begins – see who is DiggingIN with you, and maybe even coordinate ride-shares for the weekend tours.
b.) If you’re too late for the movie, that’s okay! Registration continues in the Hotel lobby Friday night until 8:30 pm. Come get your welcome package and plan your weekend fun!If you don’t arrive until Saturday, head to the Winneshiek County Visitor’s Bureau to register anytime from 8 am to 2 pm.
III. Good morning, sunshine!a.) Early birds get more than worms; they get the best veggies, pastries, and flowers at the Farmers Market. And they get to learn about bio-diesel and take a Woodland and Prairie Tour at Luther College! Grab a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy a blissful morning in the Oneota Valley.
b.) Did you sleep in? I totally understand. I suggest an easy stroll down Water Street to check out some options for lunch.
Feed Me!
c.) Well great! I’m glad you know what you like. Here’s my suggestion:Decorah start/end1. Rock Spring Farm2. Rock Cedar Ranch3. Patchwork Green FarmDecorah start/end
b.) This tour day might be a little short, but it’ll definitely be sweet! I’d do this:Decorah start/end1. Kittleson Residence2. Energy Audit in Progress – Blower Door Demos: 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:303. Hart ResidenceDecorah start/end
FALL FASHION PREVIEW!
211 West Water StreetDecorah, Iowa
M.T.W.Fr.Sat 9-5 Thurs. 9-8
563.382.8940
Mod
Coz
y
Coo
l
CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE! digIN
Sweet digIN button!
(This way!)33
Don Jose Mexican Restaurant Mexican Restaurant
Decorah201 E. Water St. 563-382-6052
Fri-Sat: 11am-10pm Sun-Thurs: 11am-9pm
Specials:Fri: All flavored
margaritas only $2.95Sat: Domestic & Mexican
bottles of beer $1.95Sun: $1.99 Kids Menu
Weekly Coloring Contest!
Authentic Mexican food, cocktails, beer, & wine! Best margaritas around!
Groups & Parties • Catering • Take Out • Gift Certificates
Enter for a chance to win a free dinner!Sunday Kids Day!
Reservations accepted
Change your life today!
Contact Diane Sondrol for more information.
563.419.5420or [email protected] [email protected]
Movement for Health & Well-Being
Small group and private lessons available, all are welcome!
Luxury salon & day spa
Cuts • Perms • Up styles • Color • Highlights • Facials • Manicure & Pedicures• 60-minute massages • Makeup
Consultation & application
303 W. Water StreetDecorah, Iowa
563.382.4941
• Facials • Manicure & Pedicures• Facials • Manicure & Pedicures• 60-minute massages • Makeup• 60-minute massages • Makeup
Consultation & application
a.) You early risers, gotta love ya. From 8 to 10 am, take a guided tour of the Luther College gardens starting at 9 am or join in on the Round Table Discussion at Baker Village Commons on the Luther College Campus – begins at 8 am.b.) Don’t fret if you’re getting a later start – there’s still lots to do, with four more tours running from 9 am to 1 pm that could really be put in any order – and all roads lead to the popular KDEC Green Expo! If I had to choose a route, I might go this way:1. Go Solar Home Tour2. Tom Massman Construction – tour a brand-new sustainable home2. Prochaska and Bollinger Farm3. Winneshiek Medical Center Garden Tour
Saturday night will come faster than you can say Zydeco. (Can’t say it? Try it with me: zie-deh-koh… good!) Get ready for a foot stompin’, spicy Louisiana dance party at the Hotel Winneshiek Steyer Opera House! Come see JJ’s Zydeco Paydirt band, 7:30 to 10:30 pm, free with DigIN button!
V. Whew! What’s there to do around here for fun?
VI. What? There’s more?
VII. KDEC Green ExpoRunning from 11 am to 4 pm, the Green Expo could be sandwiched between tours if you’re heading out of town, or make it an afternoon-long event. There will be indoor and outdoor vendors and exhibits with common sense green solutions on everything from rain barrels to renewable construction methods, sustainable agriculture to geothermal energy, and more. There’s also scheduled speakers in the KDEC Green Expo Education Tent covering a variety of interesting eco topics.
Thank you for coming! Tell your friends about the great time you had in beautiful Northeast Iowa – and check digindecorah.com for 2011 dates!
VIII. wow that was cool!
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TROPICAL FISH, SMALL ANIMALS, REPTILES, BIRDS, AQUARIUMS, CAGES & SUPPLIES
303 Sanford St. (turn east at the Family Table)
Open Monday - Saturday 10 am to 5 pm
Albert’s: Located within historic Hotel Winneshiek with a great view of Water Street, this comfortable and classy restaurant is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a great meal. Fabulous, locally grown dishes will be on the menu. Open daily at 5 pm. 104 E. Water St., 563-382-4164
Oneota Community Food Co-op: This full-service deli features a variety of the freshest, local foods from producers right here in the Decorah area. Enjoy indoor or outdoor seating, or even get a box lunch to go. It’s a social hub you are sure to enjoy. 312 W. Water St., 563-382-4666
McCaffrey’s Dolce Vita: Decorah’s newest restaurant’s Italian menu features a number of items from local producers. Try a pasta dish, salad, or the popular wood-fired pizza, which cooks in just 90 seconds! Located in Twin Springs Park, it’s a scenic stop that’s well worth the short drive or bike ride. Indoor and patio seating are available. 2149 Twin Springs Rd., 563-382-4723
Rubaiyat: Check out the farm, then taste the fare. Rubaiyat’s featured dish will be locally produced Rock Cedar Ranch Petite Ribeye with smoked lobster cream sauce and sour cream & chive potatoes. They’ll also feature fresh, local greens and other produce, TBD closer to digIN dates. Make your reservation today! 117 W. Water St., 563-382-946
T-Bock’s: Centrally located in downtown Decorah, this family-friendly restaurant has been a favorite for more than 16 years. They have over 22 tap beer selections, including the local Einfach Beer, and local Farm House Bottled Wines, along many other beers and wines. Local foods include farm-fresh eggs for breakfast, Grass Run Farm’s grass-fed, organic beef for the best burger experience around, and tomatoes, lettuce mix and other greens (perfect for great salads and burgers) – all provided by Grown Locally of Decorah! 206 W. Water St., 563-382-5970
Hart’s Tea & Tarts: This traditional tearoom is a charming stop you simply can’t pass up. Make plans for an exquisite lunch with the famous chicken salad croissant, tasty specials, or delicious barley salad – not to mention the best scones and pastries around and a wide selection of tea, fine chocolates, and other gifts. Open Mon-Sat. 10-3pm and located at 113 W. Water St., 563-382-3795
DigIN to local Decorah fare at these amazing restaurants:
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The ArchAndroid by Janelle MonáeMove over André 3000: The future now belongs to Janelle Monáe, who has created a cinematic concept album set in 2719 when an android and a knight flee the ghetto in search of an ark that will carry them to a Zion of love. Like the best sci-fi, The ArchAndroid deals in ideas, and we are chilled to find our problems and hopes still present in the future. Monáe draws from any black influence eclectic enough for her ambitions, whether that’s Sade or Octavia Butler. “Come Alive” fuses art deco swing with funk. “Mushrooms and Roses” should retire Prince. The finale (“BabopbyeYa”) transports the listener beyond fantasy and into a waking modern-day-dream. Oh, and “Tightrope” is the best song about contemporary African-American life since “Gold Digger.” A work of wondrous imagination. Buy on CD for the amazing liner notes.
How I Got Over by the RootsFor their ninth album, the Roots steal the last line from 1972’s Superfly to craft its long-awaited sequel. Channeling the anguished soul of the Chi-Lites and Curtis Mayfield, side one is a fatalistic inner city blues: God is gone, the devil’s on every corner, and no one’s leaving you alone unless they’re leaving you alone. Side two proposes a cure, and it’s not hard work or social activism, but sheer willpower. This is psychological warfare pitting recessionary despair against Obama’s hope with the Roots hauling Questlove’s reliably superb beats and some of their sharpest lyrics yet to the front.
Welder by Elizabeth CookCook wants a husband so bad she’s bound to marry the next scumbag who so much as winks at her, which is how she ends up in an El Camino (“creepy…in a perv kinda way”) running her fingers through the mullet of the hippie trash who has just drugged her drink. This isn’t to say Cook – a vocal blend of Dolly and Loretta – doesn’t have standards. She simply chooses realism, (“Heroin Addict Sister,”) wise Huckleberry naiveté, (“I could tell it to the movie out in Hollywood,”) and clever turns-of-phrase (“We got these irons in the fire”) over Grand Ole sentimentality.
Brothers by the Black KeysIn the 1960s, a lot of British rockers claimed to play the blues, which many real American bluesmen found kind of sketchy. Maybe that’s why Black Keys frontman Dan Auerbach recently stated, “When I listen to our records, I don’t hear blues music.” What he probably hears on Brothers is the low-fi buzz of the Animals, the hijacked soul of Jack Bruce’s voice, and a bunch of anguished love songs the Yardbirds could have worked out in the Crawdaddy Club. So what are we to make of the references to Muscle Shoals, Archie Bell, and Jerry Butler? As Auerbach said…
Maya by M.I.A.M.I.A. is the most important pop musician at work today; she’s either Elvis or whoever Elvis was listening to on his way to Memphis. Her newest album doesn’t measure up to its predecessor, but then Kala was one of the top three records of the 00’s. On Maya – a rough but required listen – she unfortunately trades the political for the personal and spends too much time zipping along the wires that stitch together the global village than in the village itself. Abrasively industrial at times, the album sounds like infrastructure, but stands as a framework to build upon. Choice cut: “XXXO.”
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Jason Stonerook is the author of Rock ‘N’ Politics: A State of the Union Address. This is his last column. He and his wife Kim are moving to the DC area where he will begin a PhD program at the University of Maryland. He wishes you the best of luck in your search for good new music.
American Slang by the Gaslight AnthemSpringsteen’s the hot influence now, so one could argue these punk E Streeters are merely trolling the turnpike. I don’t mind, though, because they’re a.) Actually from Jersey, and b.) Good. That, and their lead singer sounds like Paul Westerberg. It’s kind of postmodern of them to romanticize the mythology of Springsteen since the Boss romanticizes mythology all the time, but at least they’re a sincere bunch and wise enough to write an album about how those glory days will pass you by (“Don’t sing me your songs about the good times.”)
Highly recommended for curious Green Day fans.
Street Songs of Love by Alejandro EscovedoA journeyman rock-and-roller from Austin who’s played everything from punk to alt-country to Tex-Mex, Escovedo sticks to straightforward classic rock on his tenth album, drawing equally from Tom Petty, T. Rex, and the Clash. Every song here is about love, but Escovedo is such a romantic tramp that he only seems functional when he’s falling in or out of it; as he sings during “Anchor,” “I’m in love with love/ And it broke me in two.” The rockers are balanced by beautiful ballads like “Down in the Bowery,” which features an excellent vocal
from Mott the Hoople’s Ian Hunter.
Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty by Big BoiSetting: The Joel Brasserie, Atlanta, 8:30 Friday night. You’re sitting across from a woman with long dark hair and gorgeous chestnut-colored eyes. You tell her your joke about the lawyer and the alligator and she laughs. It’s been a good date. Just then a man in a fine Italian suit approaches your table. “Excuse me,” he says, “I’d like to buy this beautiful woman a drink.” You’re taken aback, but before you can respond, you see him leaving the restaurant with your date. Your pride, however, is intact. Why? Because that
was Sir Lucious Left Foot, son of Chico Dusty.
We Walk This Road by Robert Randolph & the Family BandFor their fourth album, the Family Band enlists O Brother, Where Art Thou? producer T-Bone Burnett to connect their modern gospel rock to its roots in the blues and spiritual music. The result is a collection of hollers, foot-stompers, and covers (including Dylan, Lennon, and Prince) that should rattle the floorboards of even the sturdiest wooden churches. Randolph reins in his sacred steel pyrotechnics for this outing, but the band makes up for it with a greater focus on song. Still wish they’d make their Sunday morning
message more potent by delving deeper into Saturday night. A must-see live band.
CLASSIC REVIEWSome Girls by the Rolling Stones (1978)
Disco and punk had supposedly rendered them obsolete by 1978, but the Stones specialized in the one element both musical movements had in common: sleaze. Hence this greasy tribute to NYC’s rot and riches. Lowlifes and the haute couture swim in the same cesspool here—compare the rickety disco blues of “Miss You” with the tender S&M ode “Beast of Burden”—and when Jagger yips “Ain’t you hungry for success success success?” on “Shattered,” it’s just as easy to imagine him addressing a Wall Street
trader or Studio 54 celeb as it is a Bowery punk, each drooling like a werewolf.
Thanks from
Inspire(d), Jason!
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August 12-22: Iowa State Fair, Des Moines, Iowa - www.iowastatefair.comThis IS the big one – everything on a stick, the
butter cow, endless display buildings, music, animals, a giant
midway, and more.
August 20-22: Czech Days, Protivin, Iowa - www.howard-county.comC Z W X N Q S T A C Z - “Can you read this?” the optometrist asks. “Read it?” the Czech replies, “I even know
the guy.”
August 20-22: DigIN, Decorah – www.digindecorah.comDecorah hosts the second annual festival of all things green. Register now and receive a goodie cooler bag – home/farm tours, music, film, green-expo, presentations, DigIN!
August 22-23: Haybarn Rendezvous, Marquette, Iowa - www.waygoodmusic.comJust when you thought it had been a while since Switchback was in the area – the Haybarn Rendezvous brings some of the midwests’ best music to a fun rural location!
August 27-29: Great River Folk Festival, La Crosse, Wisconsin – www.greatriverfolkfest.orgFolk Yeah! The Hobo Newphews of Uncle Frank, Muddy Flats & the Hep Cats, UW La Crosse Campus – sounds like a folk party, eh?
Bored?
2nd Annual Fall Festival Round-Up!
Gimme a break!
If you’ve ever heard anyone complain about the lack of “things to do” in our beautiful region, you now have a printed list to quench their thirst (re: shut them up). There are more than a dozen festivals, fairs, and celebrations throughout the next two
months that feature everything from sweet corn to folk music, steam engines to sunfish to Nobel Peace Prize winners. Get on out there and enjoy all we have to celebrate!
September 4: Heirloom Tomato Festival, Seed Saver’s, Decorah, Iowa – www.seedsavers.orgOver 40 Varieties of heirloom tomatoes for your tasting pleasure – that’s a lot of lycopene!
September 10-12: Steam Engine Days, Mabel, Minnesota – www.steamenginedays.comInspire(d)’s favorite fall right of passage – watch the “old girls” glide down the gravel roads of the Mabel Steam Engine Grounds, and don’t miss the Lutheran Church Stand Pie – seriously.
September 24-25: Recession Fest, Decorah, Iowa - www.myspace.com/diesloeWe give it to this ambitious group of young musicians from NE Iowa – check out two days and nights of local and regional musicians – from hick to haute, Merle to metal.
September 24-26: Norman Borlaug Harvest Festival, Cresco, Iowa - www.crescochamber.comDr. B. has won our wheat hearts and Cresco celebrates it! Jump in on the fun as one of NE Iowa’s most important figures in history is honored.
September 26-27: Froelich Fall-der-All, Froelich, Iowa – www.froelichtractor.comThe town, named after the family, is home to the modern tractor – be there to check out a village captured in another century, with modern food and hospitality!
October 2: Uff-Da Fest, Spring Grove, Minnesota - www.uffdafest.comWhat’s not to love about another festival celebrating all things Norwegian? Head north in your bunad and get your lefse on!
August 13-15: Fish Days, Lansing, Iowa – www.lansingfishdays.com The Mississippi River comes alive with a “Venetian parade” and revelers do the fish dance.
August 13-15: Sweet Corn Days, Lime Springs, Iowa www.limesprings.com What’s not to love about sweet corn – the staple of summer in Iowa? Celebrate it!
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9|16|10 Judy Shepard, speaker 9|30|10 The Four Tops and The Temptations 10|10|10 Legally Blonde the Musical 10|13-14|10 The Laramie Project & Epilogue Tectonic Theater Project 11|14|10 Bonga & the Vodou Drums of Haiti 11|18|10 DRUMLine Live 12|17|10 The Ten Tenors 12|19|10 A Christmas Carol Nebraska Theatre Caravan 1|21|11 Die Fledermaus presented with UNI School of Music 1|22|11 Sleeping Beauty Russian National Ballet Theatre 1|25-27|11 The Blue Man Group 2|13|11 Cuarteto Casals with Andreas Klein 3|6|11 Giggle Giggle Quack Dallas Children’s Theater 3|27|11 Van Cliburn Gold Medalist, Haochen Zhang 4|3|11 Johnny Mathis 4|8-10|11 Disney’s Beauty and the Beast 4|17|11 Boston Brass
TwentyTen | TwentyEleven | ArtistSeries
Something for Everyone
Tickets on sale August Two.
Dr. Jon R. Hart • Dr. Peter J. Blodgett • Dr. John E. Wilmes
108 Fifth Avenue, Decorah, Iowa • 563-382-3657 • Visit our website at: www.decorahdental.com
Okay…we know you’re probably not going to say that. But we do have cable TV in every room, local art throughout our state-of-the-art facilities, nice views, and, of course,
free toothbrushes and floss. Now let’s hear a wooo hooo!
“Wooo hooo, I’m going to the dentist!”
It has been said that a river has
no memory. If you pick out a spot on the Upper Iowa and hold your gaze, the longer you look at it, the more it changes. It runs a restless pace only satisfied on the move, and with that motion, goes dirt, rocks, and history, along for the thrilling ride.
David Faldet, Luther College English professor and Paideia program director, went along for the historical ride of a lifetime as he wrote “Oneota Flow,” a biographical tribute to the Upper Iowa River and its citizens. Faldet weaves an intricate pattern of stories and local history that carries the reader to the depths of our watershed.
On August 29, Upstart Crow Theatreworks – alongside a group of 20 Luther faculty, staff, and students – will bring Oneota Flow to life through “The River Walk,” a series of performances based from the book. The production was created by Upstart Crow director Kristen Underwood, exclusively for the 650 incoming Paideia students. Paideia, ancient Greek for education, is a required class that, according to the Luther College website, “honors the
conviction that life in community depends on centuries of shared wisdom.” It’s fitting, then, that the group would read about the history of a river that has run through the community of Decorah for hundreds – if not thousands – of years.
The Decorah-based Upstart Crow launched in 2002 with a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Since then, the company has opened 24 shows and a large range of workshops for both children and adults. The River Walk is similar to the Decorah Phelps Cemetery Walks Underwood both conceived of and created. It is a guided tour with six stations along the Upper Iowa, taking students out of the classroom, off the campus, and into the community. At each stop, they’ll gain a new in-depth perspective of Decorah: their home for the next four years.
“At college, you’re expected to sit and listen,” Underwood
says. “These river walks will give the students a kinesthetic experience. Just by moving your body, you’re jogging your memory.”
The scenes range from a tale of the 1941 flood to a depiction of current environmental lawyer Karl Knutsen and his discoveries on the Upper Iowa public water
By Danielle Koch
Walk the WalkLUTHER COLLEGE STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT THE UPPER IOWA RIVER & DECORAH
photo by Aryn Henning Nichols
is
Kuhl, Keen, Columbia, Levi, Dockers, and more!
130 West Water Street Decorah, IA
563.382.5761
Monday - Friday 9-5 Thursday 9-8Saturday 9-5
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Kuhl, Keen, Columbia, Levi, Dockers, and more!Dress yourself. For all mankind. Even Ken.
Surprisingly, Ken’s biggest wish in life wasn’t what
you’d think.
He always wished to dress himself…obviously to avoid outfits like this.
highway.“This experience is about connections and
commitments,” Underwood says. “From what you read to the river itself, scene to scene, the river connects past to present and it connects you to people.”
The event will conclude with a discussion about water quality. In “Oneota Flow,” Faldet reports that the Environmental Protection Agency has listed Iowa’s waterways as containing the highest level of nitrogen in the USA – during the spring floods, the levels can be as high as 22 parts per million, more than double the rate needed to merely label it a health hazard.
The River Walk experience will allow students to not only connect to their new community and witness the story of the Upper Iowa, but also gain a better understanding of living in a water-dependent world. It highlights the complexity a single river has as a livelihood, resource, and necessity. Underwood hopes the River Walk will open students’ minds to new ways of thinking about what they read and how they apply that knowledge in the world.
Creating this production also opened Underwood’s own
mind to some of the river’s complexities. For example: In a controversy during the 1960s, homeowners whose yards bordered the Upper Iowa filed complaints about fanatic canoers who cut fences to gain access to the river. But technically, the boaters were in the right. Though corporations and private owners claim the land around the river, the water itself is owned by the public. Since then, much of the barriers between water-craving-adventurists have been removed, but a question then remains. If we own this water, Underwood asks, what is our responsibility as stewards? It’s an essentional question, because just as The River Walk connects new Luther College students to the history of the community, the river itself connects the community to the world.
The River Walk will last one and a half hours. Students will start crossing the river at the River View bridge and follow the trail behind the Pulpit Rock Campground. It will include sights like the re-scouted river and the brewery. Currently, Upstart Crow has not scheduled a public performance. The entire Luther campus community will be invited for a dress rehearsal on Saturday August 28 at 1 pm beginning at Storre Theatre.
Danielle Koch hails from Lakeville, Minnesota and claims herself as an enthusiastic word smashing poet and a part-time collage maker. In her spare time, she attends class and pays her third year of Luther tuition.
Savor the Sweet Life.
Specializing in wood-fired
pizza & International
Cuisine!
563.382.4723
2149 Twin Springs Road, Decorah, Iowa
4-9 pm Wed – Fri | 11 am - 9 pm Sat – Sun
SORRY - NO RESERVATIONS
Friday:
Pizza, pasta, salads, sandwiches, soups, appetizers, homemade cheesecake & more!
Gift certificates available!
Wednesday:
Blackened Salmon
Spaghetti & meatballs / kids pizzas
Thursday: Prime Rib DinnerEveningSpecials!
Saturday: Steak of the Week
Decorah , 563-382-8714
CJ Huber
WANT TO HELP? Donate good, clean, used toys; volunteer; or offer a monetary donation. TGR is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization
202 Winnebago StDecorah
Public LibraryLower Level
563-382-3717, ext. 111
Tues/Sat 10 am – 1 pm • Wed/Thurs 3 pm – 7 pm
More than 1,400 toys -
watch for new additions!
Grandparent: $20Family, Schools, or Childcare Providers: $45Mini Membership: $15/ 3 mo.
Yearly Membership Fees:
Check out toys, videos & games!
www.toysgoround.org
Ad sponsored by Winneshiek County Community Foundation
So what does a 220-gallon oil tank rescued from your dad’s salvage yard, a Rambler front-end chassis complete with chrome hubcaps embossed with red letter ‘R’s, and an dilapidated old boat trailer have in common?
Stick around. There’s a story to be told here. One night after closing last winter, I was sitting at
our restaurant bar with Dolce Vita head chef, Mike Domine (aka Mike D.). While sipping on a couple of cold ones, we were discussing the batch of ribs he had made that night and how they could improve.
“You know, we really ought to have a smoker,” Mike D. comments.
IRISH INGENUITY? By Jim McCaffrey
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Now there was food for thought. I dwelled upon it for about three seconds, took a sip of Pinot Grigio, and replied, “Yeah, that sure would be super. Adding some smoke to those ribs would definitely put them in a class of their own. However, you know as well as I, that Brenda (my lovely wife and the woman who ‘cooks the books’ for our company) – with the current state of the economy – is no way going to let us take 10 or 15 G’s to purchase one of those mammoth boy toys. Mike D. replies, “Yeah… but it still would be nice.”
In the early 1980s, when Brenda and I had the Café Deluxe in Downtown Decorah, our friend and local welding shop entrepreneur, John Beard, built us a stationary barbeque for the outside dining patio. It, basically, was an old oil tank pulled from someone’s basement when they switched to gas for their primary heat source. John cut the tank in half the long way, reinforced the edges with angle iron, and hinged the two pieces. We went to Carlson Construction, a cement and sand company, and purchased a couple of discarded shaker grates. John incorporated these into a platform on the bottom to hold charcoal or wood and a cooking surface. Pretty much everything in the cooker was recycled. Hey, 30 years ago, we were going green and didn’t even know it!
At the first Nordic Fest we used the cooker, we served barbeque chicken with homemade potato salad and fresh sweet corn. We had people lined up for two blocks after the parade. 400 servings in two hours. Now that was a lot of cluckers.
A few years later, Brenda and I sold the Café. The cooker went along in that transaction. But I had the itch. Barbeque was in the blood. Bigger was better. Visions of grilling for the masses was occurring in my head. My kingdom for a BBQ.
One day, after work, I stopped up to see my dad at his salvage yard. Low and behold, there was another oil tank standing out front. That got the adrenaline pumping. “So Dad, what are you going to do with that?” I query. “They
are a real pain,” he replies. “By the time and gas you spend cutting them up you end up losing money.” “Do you want me to take it off your hands?” I ask. “It will only cost you a beer.” A split six-pack later the deal was consummated. Since John was busy with a large project, I got my brother Pat (welder extraordinaire as well) involved. I wanted this unit to be mobile. Pat pulled the front-end chassis off of an old Rambler from the salvage yard. After modifying it to fit under the tank, he cut the tongue off of an old boat trailer and mounted it to the chassis. A couple more shaker grates and we were ready to rock and roll.
I spent a weekend burning wood on the inside to get rid of any potential oil residue. Then the project got put on hold. I started working at the Calmar Manufacturing Company. I also started building a house. So the rig sat for 25 years.
Back at the bar I say to Mike D., “You know, I think I may have a solution to this little problem. I have that old barbeque cooker down on the bottom that we could modify into a smoker. It will have to wait until spring as it is only buried under 24 feet of snow.” Mike D. replies, “Yeah, that
sure would be nice.”Spring arrived. When the
ground dried out, I had Conor, my son, pull the rig out with his pickup. Completely rust-covered, tires rotten, and a missing bottom shaker grate. But other than that, she was cherry. Pat was busy working on his new place and John, our newly-elected state representative, was in Des Moines legislating. So I called a third area welder/fabricator/friend, Jan Dansdill, to see if he had time to work on our little project.
In the meantime, one of our friends came by to take a look. He had two good used tires in his garage that would fit and he would be willing to donate. Conor pulled the wheels off. When Jan showed up, we were road ready. I explained that besides being a barbeque rig, we wanted to use it as a smoker. We needed to cut holes on the backside and construct a smoker box. Three days later, after some other modifications and a new paint job, Jan pulled it into the parking lot. He added a couple of wings on the side to hold food and utensils, a new handle made out of heavy-duty truck exhaust pipe, and a chimney with an enclosed damper. A Cadillac of a rig.
Well, almost. Jan left. Brenda to come down to take a
OR JUNKYARD DOG? ...YOU BE THE JUDGE.
1,566 SQUARE INCHES OF COOKING AREA. ONE HECK OF A WEENIE ROAST.
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Mississippi Mirth
501 MONTGOMERY ST • DECORAH, IA
563-382-4010 • 563-380-5851
AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR OF ALL KINDS
Pick up & delivery available!
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FOLKEDAHL SERVICE
SINCE 1979
New home construction
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431 S. Main Street Spillville, Iowa563-379-0670
Repairing guitars, banjos, mandolins, violin family
instruments, & moreGuitar lessons also available
Lew's String Shop
Smoked BBQ Chicken Quarters (serves eight) 8 chicken quarters w/skin onRub½ cup no salt garlic and herb seasoning2 tsp cayenne pepper2 tsp paprikaSauce1 cup Open Pit BBQ Sauce1 cup Pace Medium Picante SauceJuice of one lemon 2 garlic cloves minced
Soak wood chips (hickory, cherry, pecan, apple) in water 2 hours prior to start. Preheat oven at 500 degrees. Rinse chicken off with cold running water. Discard any excess fat. Pat dry with paper towels. Wash hands with soap and hot water. Arrange chicken skin side up in a single layer in a couple 11 x 19 shallow baking dishes. Mix rub ingredients. Generously sprinkle rub mixture on chicken pieces. Gently massage rub into the skin. Place dishes into the oven for eight minutes. This will sear the juices in. Reduce heat to 350 degrees. Bake uncovered for another 30 minutes or so. Usually when the juices run clear, the chicken is cooked thoroughly. It is best to check with a meat thermometer. Insert in the deep part of the thigh. It needs to read 165 degrees minimum. While chicken is baking, prepare outside grill for smoking. If using charcoal, stack briquettes to one side and light. With gas, light a burner on one side. When grill is hot, place wood chips in a small metal pie tin and place directly over heat. When wood chips start smoking, arrange chicken on grill away from the heat. Cover. Let smoke for 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, mix sauce ingredients. Baste chicken liberally with sauce. Cover again for 10 to 15 minutes. Baste once more and repeat. Time to eat. This is a fast way to get the smoked flavor. One can also just put the chicken on the grill in the same fashion and cook and smoke it from the beginning. This will probably take 3 to 4 hours. Remember the internal temperature must be at 165 degrees to be food safe. Have fun!
look, and after explaining the different details, I went into the building to close up. When I came out, the cooker was partially turned over and Brenda was down for the count. She had decided to shut the hood and it tipped over on her. Good thing these Bowegians have hard noggins, ‘cause she escaped with just a bump on her head. We added some stabilizer legs and it was finally done. 1,566 square inches of cooking area. Room for 300 hot dogs. One heck of a weenie roast. Smoker works great as well. It has only been 25 years in the works, but as an old buddy of mine used to say, “It isn’t a record.” And for 99 percent of you testosterone laden, bbq-crazed, alpha males, I’ve just one thing to say: “Mine’s bigger……er….. my Smoker, that is.
Jim McCaffrey is a chef, author, and co-owner with his family of McCaffrey’s Dolce Vita restaurant and Twin Springs Bakery just outside Decorah. He is author of a humorous cookbook titled “Midwest Cornfusion.” He has been in the food industry in one way or another for 40 years.
inspire(d) magazine • august/
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Fern: Welcome and thank you for taking time out of your busy day of frolicking, revelry and general merry-making talk with me about the 5th Annual Summer Fairy “Chairity” and Home Tour.
Twin Springs Fairy: I am quite happy to be here.
Fern: Please tell me about the upcoming Fairy Chairity. I understand that all the proceeds go to benefit Northeast Iowa’s People for Animal Welfare (PAW).
Twin Springs Fairy: This is one of the most magical events fairies have been a part of in recent history and is my personal favorite. As you know, fairies are quite fond of companion animals and when we heard PAW was seeking funds to build a shelter, we knew we had to find a way to help. A special River Fairy Conclave was held five years ago to bring awareness to this serious need. A royal decree from the King and Queen of the Fairies resulted in several Driftless Region fairyfolk offering to manifest their homes in the Magnuson’s garden to inspire humans to give up some green for this noble cause.
Fern: Please excuse me, I know I ask this question every year in hope that you may someday share the answer. Just how you are able to bring so many fairy homes to the garden on this special day?
Twin Springs Fairy: I regret that I still cannot share that fairy wisdom with you. I can say, however, that it takes more than a teaspoonful of pixie dust....
Fern: Well, never hurts to ask. Can you share more details about the tour?
Twin Springs Fairy: Of course! Dear readers, on Sunday, August 22 from 1 to 6 p.m., you are invited to a magical Fairy Home Tour and Exhibit at 2106 Twin Springs Road (across from Twin Springs Park). Actual fairies’ homes from all over the area will appear in the garden and their invisibility spells will be lifted for this special day. As you enjoy a tour of our homes,
some of our favorite chairs will also be on display. You will have an opportunity to bid on extraordinary and charming birdhouses created by human artists under our spell. The silent auction will conclude at 6 p.m. Lemonade and tantalizing treats will also be available for a wee fee. Fern: How much is admission and can tickets be purchased ahead of time? Twin Springs Fairy: Tickets are $5 for human grown-ups
and $3 for human children 12 and under. Tickets are available Agora Arts, Blue Heron Knittery, The Perfect Edge, and Fancy Pants – all in downtown Decorah. Or you can buy your tickets at the garden gate. We so look forward to seeing you in the garden... though you may not be certain that you see us!
Fanciful Fairies for Furry Friends!Recently, the relatively unknown reporter Fern Barkley met at an undisclosed
location with an anonymous winged source to find out about an enchanting occasion that is definitely taking place on August 22nd in the garden.
A n I n ter v i e w w i th a T w i n S p r i n g s F ai r y
(psss t : I t � s the Fairy �Chair � i ty! ):
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CHEAP At Winneshiek Medical Center:Walk-In Wellness Lab Testing – You (if you’re 18 or older) can go to Winneshiek Medical Center from 8 am to 12 pm, Monday through Friday, simply register at the Main Entrance Registration, pay for the labs you choose by cash, check or credit card, and head to the Laboratory for testing. Test options include everything from just one test – like cholesterol – basically up to the ‘Almost Kitchen Sink’ of Blood Work ($35). You can screen for cholesterol, blood type, PSA (prostate), glucose, glucose with estimated mean and HgbA1c, TSH (thyroid), uric acid (gout), hemoglobin (anemia), BUN (kidney function), creatinine (kidney function), potassium, calcium, and AST (liver function). Results are mailed to the patient within five business days, after which the patient should schedule an appointment with their provider to interpret and discuss the results.Flu Clinic (in season) – Low-cost influenza vaccinations are available through community clinics on the medical center campus and at various businesses in the area. The influenza shot is also available without an appointment through Decorah Clinic at WMC. Reduced Rate Athletic Physicals are available year round at Decorah and Mabel Clinic for just $30.Runners Analysis is a program that helps athletes run more efficiently and identify posture-related or movement-related problems, for only $20.
At Windemere Institute of Healing Arts: Discounted massage & body workScheduled Sundays and Mondays, get massage work at a discounted rate at Windemere Institute of Healing Arts – the massage types vary: circulatory, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, shiatsu, hot stone, Thai, neuromuscular, and more. 50 minutes for $25. Scheduled Tuesdays, try out some energy healing work like reiki, aromatherapy, breathwork and more. 60-90 minutes for $35. Call 563-382-8495 to make an
appointment.
At Donlon Health Mart: Did you know Donlon’s has a $5 dollar generic plan that mimics the big box stores? You can get a 30-day supply of a medication for just $5 or 90-day supply for $14 dollars – choose from more than 300 generic medications included on the list. For the meds not on the list, there’s an in-store discount card, the “RX Advantage Discount Club.” This card equals savings on brand name
medications as well as generics not on the $5 list. Plus Donlon’s offers the Zostavax (shingles) vaccination – with no office visit or office fees, it’s simple, quick, and convenient. (Requires a prescription.)
West Side Dental: And did you also know Drs. Wilmes, Blodgett, & Hart participate in the Donated Dental Services of Iowa Program (free work for those who qualify), accept
The Top 20 (or so) Area Health Care
Deals You’ve (Maybe) Never Heard Of
One rarely hears the words “health care” followed by the word “deal,” but we here at Inspire(d) like to sneak up on our readers like that. The fact of the matter is so
many people spend time complaining about their terrible insurance that they don’t stop to consider the options their area hospitals, clinics, offices, and pharmacies are offering.
Sometimes it’s an even better deal than insurance could ever touch! After a recent trip to Winneshiek Medical Center to utilize their Walk-In Wellness Lab Testing, I was inspire(d) to make
sure you knew about some of the great cheap or free health care deals available in the area. It’s important to take care of yourself – all of you, from your teeth to your toes. And I encourage you, if you’re not from Decorah, to explore options in your area – all you have to do is ask! Easy!
Written/Compiled by Aryn Henning Nichols
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201 West Water StDecorah, Iowa 563-382-2626
donlonpharmacy.com
Lesson one: You get the picture: We make life easier. Easy
prescription transfers, Luther College delivery, photos in minutes, plus
toiletries, supplies, & gifts all in one – you guessed it –
convenient location!
Get it?The picture?
Ha ha!con·ven·ient/kun–vēn-yent/Adjective1. Fitting in well with a person’s needs, activities, and plans.2. Involving little trouble or effort
i.e. “I’ve never been to a pharmacy that was more convenient.”
some title XIX, and all Hawkeye Insurance (low income working families)? They also provide some services through the Decorah Free Clinic.
BETTER THAN A FREE LUNCH!Free at WMC:Monthly blood pressure checks in the community – at convenient locations such as Decorah Bank and Trust, Viking State Bank, Bank of the West, Northeast Security Bank, and the Decorah Senior Dining Center.Health Screenings (dates are available throughout the year) and can be found at winmedical.org. Various screenings include: skin cancer, prostate, foot/ankle and hearing (the latter every fourth Tuesday of the month from 2 to 4 pm –must call for an appointment).Mammogram screenings are offered in cooperation with Winneshiek County Celebration of Life. Women who are uninsured or underinsured can qualify for a free screening at WMC. The application is a simple one-page form that is based on insurance deductibles, income, number of persons in the household and eligibility for Medicare or Medicaid, to name a few. For instance, a woman may qualify if she’s in a household of 4, with an income of $66,000 or less annually, or an insurance deductible of $5,000 or more. Women of all ages should apply; the form
is conveniently located at www.winmedical.org or www.winneshiekcol.com.
Car seat checks are offered in cooperation with HAWC. Winneshiek
Medical Center hosts car seat checks on the second Thursday of every month at the Winneshiek Medical Center
East entranceSports injury clinics
for area athletes every Saturday morning from 9-11 am during fall months.
Free at Meehan & Schwartz Family Eye
ClinicEarly Detection of Potential
Eye & Vision Problems for Your Baby (6-12 months) – the most critical
stages of their development. At this screening your baby gets their first pair of Baby Banz sunglasses and sun hat, also free.Vision Detection for Your 3-year-old – some vision conditions require correction at an early age. This screening ensures your child can see to learn when entering pre-school & kindergarten.
Free at Medicap Pharmacy:Bathroom safety products such as grab bars and shower chairs to help prevent fallsPlus – as an free extra service, Medicap will dispense your medications in individual daily use packages to make it easier to tell if you’ve taken your meds – especially good if you have a lot to keep in order.
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ALWAYS FRIENDLY, COURTEOUS & ON TIME.Our drivers are happy to take
you where you need to go. Call us today for a ride!
563-382-3155
6:30 am - 6 pm Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri6:30 am - 8 pm Thursday7:30 am - 8 pm SaturdayClosed Sunday
TAXI HOURS
What the best advice anyone ever gave you? Don’t run up big debts.
What did you want to be when you grew up? A good farmer/cattle man.
What did you do? I was born in Waukon and was raised on a farm in the Frankville area until 1943, when I joined the army. I had basic training at Camp Dodge in Des Moines and after was sent to the Philippines. Later I was a part of the Occupational Forces of Japan. When I returned home in 1946, I became a buyer for Oscar Meyer Meat Packing in Viola, Wisconsin. They wanted me to move to Illinois, but my wife didn’t want to, so I began working for Fairbanks Morris building locomotives until 1954, when I bought a farm in Iowa. I raised tobacco and milked – after a �ire in 1964, I switched to tobacco and sheep, then started also selling Mormon’s Feed, and �inally I went full-time raising beef, hogs, and grain. I retired in 1992 and moved back to Waukon.
What meant the most to you as a veteran?I helped save the country in a time of need, and am now a lifetime member of the VFW. We were welcomed home as heroes.
What was the worst thing about being a veteran?Losing friends and seeing what you see.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want with you? Water, food, and books.
Try to describe yourself in one sentence. Happy and content with what I have.
If you could eat anything every day for the rest of your life, what would it be? Good �ish.
Name one thing you could not live without. A warm house.
Tell us about…your wedding day.I married Helen in 1948 – we had been going together for quite awhile, so we just sort of decided to get married over the long New Year’s holiday weekend. We couldn’t get married in the church because it was such short notice. Our parents came and we got married at East Salem Church Parsonage (the same church Ron’s parents and grandparents attended!) with a small party at my parents’ house after, then together we went back to Wisconsin to live.
Tell us about…your favorite memory.When I was about 7 or 8 years old, my grandpa gave me a pony – which was a pretty big deal for someone my age to get. It was an older horse, but I really loved to ride it!
Probituary: It’s a Notice of Life!
Interview and foreword by Ron Henning (Aryn’s dad)
I volunteer to drive the VA van to Iowa City and back on a fairly regular basis, and I meet and talk to a lot of wonderful veterans in the process. So when my daughter, Aryn, asked if I wanted to interview one of them for Inspire(d), I said, “Yes, I’d love to.” I was impressed with Gale Ludeking – he has a very good memory and is interesting to talk to. He seems like a content guy, and has a lot of good life stories that he’ll talk to you about if you ask.
GALE LUDEKING, 84: PRACTICAL, SMART, & A GREAT STORYTELLER!
Do you know someone you’d love to interview for this
page? Let us know! [email protected]
For your 3-year-old we detect vision conditions that require correction at an early age. This free screening is designed to ensure your child can See to Learn when entering pre-school & kindergarten. www.seetolearn.com
DID YOU KNOW?We offer 2 free screenings for your kids!
For your baby (6-12 months) we offer early detection of potential eye & vision problems in the most critical stages of their development. At this free screening we present your baby with their first pair of Baby Banz sunglasses & sun hat, free of charge. www.infantsee.org
Infant See1See To Learn2
805 MONTGOMERY ST. DECORAH
HOURS: 7:30-5:30 M, W, TH, F; 7:30-7:00 TUESDAY
563-382-4279 • WWW.DECORAHEYE.COM
Glenn Johnson, M.D., orthopedic surgeon with Decorah Clinic Physicians - Mayo Health
System, has joined Decorah Clinic at Winneshiek Medical Center. With more than 30 years experience, Dr. Johnson will provide his patients with the highest quality, state-of-the-art, and
clinically proven orthopedic services available in our region, including:•MinimallyInvasiveSurgical(MIS)hip,kneeandshoulderreplacement
•Shouldersurgery•Arthroscopicsurgeryoftheknee,ankleandshoulder
•Adultreconstructivesurgery•SportsMedicine
•FractureCare
Contact us for an appointment or to learn more about
orthopedic options available locally.
DecorahClinicwinmedical.org563-382-2911
Physician services provided by Decorah Clinic Physicians -
Mayo Health System
OrthopedicCareThe first name in local
just got a new last name.
digINthe decorah iowa green INitiative
Tour off-the-grid & retro-fitted homes, check out sustainable farms, & enjoy local foods,
film screenings, energy-saving tips from experts, KDEC’s Green Expo, & more at the 2nd annual Decorah Iowa Green INitiative!
it’s time to
August 20-22, 201
Brought to you by the Winneshiek County Convention & visitors bureauMore info & registration at digindecorah.com
FRI: NO IMPACT MAN FILM • SAT: JJ’S ZYDECO PAYDIRT BANDPLUS NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT AT THE HISTORIC HOTEL WINNESHIEK
$10 for adults. Kids 18 & under free!Register online – first 250 get a free cooler!
Serious & fun documentary, sponsored by Decorah Bank & Trust Spicy Louisiana dance music that’ll keep you on your feet!