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Your contribution fuels the stories that shape Decorah—make a difference today. DECORAH — A steady stream of vehicles rolled through the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds on Tuesday evening as community members turned out for the annual Chamber Ag Meal, showing their support for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Hosted by the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Committee, the June 17 event featured steak sandwiches and cheeseburgers freshly prepared by the Winneshiek County Cattlemen, along with classic shakes from the Moo Mobile — all served with a smile by local dairy and beef royalty. The event has become a popular tradition, typically drawing around 500 attendees each year. "It's important to support local beef and dairy producers," said 2025 Winneshiek County Dairy Princess Hanna Vagts as she delivered shakes to customers. "And this is a fun way to do it." Proceeds from the evening go directly toward the Chamber's Winneshiek County Agriculture Scholarships, which are awarded to local high school graduates and Northeast Iowa Community College students pursuing degrees in agriculture. Funds also support the Herdsmanship Awards at the county fair, recognizing outstanding care and cleanliness in livestock handling beyond the show ring. Scholarship recipients are expected to be announced soon, and DecorahNews.com will publish those results when available. "This event reflects everything that makes Winneshiek County's ag community so strong," said Chamber Executive Director Jessica Rilling, who was cheerfully dressed as a cow for the occasion. "We have an exceptional agriculture committee that helps host several events throughout the year. I feel really strongly that our local economy includes agriculture, so we work hard to have events that celebrate all the hard work producers are doing and keep them visible, connected, and recognized appropriately within the business community." The Chamber's Agriculture Committee includes: Bob Kane, Nate Gebel – Farm Credit Services Dave Krieger, Cole Phillips – Decorah Bank & Trust Cindy Hoyme, Tyler Hemry – Kerndt Brothers Bank Jess Rediske – Red Roxy Quilt Co. Matt Burkey, Mike Jacobson – Northeast Security Bank Allie McIntyre – Iowa State University Extension, Winneshiek County Nicholas Wilz – Knox Financial Isaac Luzum – Viking State Bank Rilling also noted the importance of youth in agriculture, highlighting ongoing support for FFA and 4-H programs that foster interest and leadership among future ag professionals. This year's Ag Meal was sponsored by LetterWerks. The 2025 Ag Partners include Anderson Law Office, Viking State Bank, Norwegian Mutual Insurance Agency, WinnMed, and Farm Credit Services. The 2025 Organizational Sponsor was Decorah Bank & Trust. More information about the Chamber's agriculture scholarships are available here. Knowledge is power! Stay empowered by subscribing to the free newsletter, packed with valuable insights, stories of local newsmakers and ideas to get your weekend started.

Support your local businesses

Drive-Thru Ag Meal Serves Up Supper and Support for Local Agriculture