Two "Friend in Agriculture" Awards given by Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce

Emily Kurash of the DACC, the staff of Decorah Veterinary Clinic (Left to Right, Dr. Amy Gibbs, Laurie Bjertness , Dr. Tom Shroyer, Susan Peterson, Kathryn Riehle, Anna Keppler) and Jess Rediske, Ag Committee Chair

The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce's Ag Committee has given out two "Friends in Ag Awards."

Former NICC continuing education program manager Mary Steen was awarded the 2012 Friend in Agriculture Individual Award for her work at the community college.  Through her position she has been vital in organizing programs such as the annual Midwest Dairy School at the Dairy Center and annual farm safety days.  Mary has also been active in the Northeast Iowa Food and Farm coalition, Women Adding Value to Agriculture, Decorah Area Chamber Ag Committee, and Women Land and Legacy.

Decorah Veterinary Clinic was given the 2012 Friend in Agriculture Business Award.   The vet clinic provides 24 hour hospital care with emergency and critical care and a fully stocked pharmacy, radiology, surgery, and ultrasound services, house calls, and nutritional counseling   The award was presented to the business for its commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities.

The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce also awarded two $350 scholarships--one to high school student Kilah Hemesath and one to NICC student Nicole Massman.

Emily Kurash of the DACC; Mary Steen, 2012 recipient of the Friend in Agriculture Individual Award; and Jess Rediske, Ag Committee Chair