Post Author's Photographer By Kristin Eggen September 3, 2025

Guest article written by Jim Fritz, Mission Green

Decorah is an arts hub and has been for many years.  There are literally dozens of ensembles, chamber groups, local bands, trios, and the like.  Additionally this is a community full of theater opportunities for all age groups.  What has been lacking has been an adequate outdoor space for performances.  The area in front of the courthouse is fine for Nordic Fest but terrible for performers at any other time.  The gazebo in Phelps Park is a nice historical icon but is also a poor place to play that isn’t centrally located.  What is needed is a Performance Pavilion located close to downtown.

This is what inspired me to design an appropriate space for artists of all ages and persuasions.  The proposed pavilion will both enhance the arts offerings for the school and community, and be sustainable, providing up to $10,000 in free solar energy to the new school.  All of this done without public funds.  If you, reader, agree that this is a good idea, be sure to let the Decorah School Board members know your thoughts.  Find additional information on our website:  https://missiongreen.llc/decorah-performance-pavilion/

Person with short hair and glasses smiles in front of a sign that reads “INNESHEK ENERGY PROJECT” with a building silhouette and sunburst in the background.

Kristin Eggen

Kristin Eggen first came to the Winneshiek Energy District as a Green Iowa AmeriCorps member in 2015. Eight years later, she is thrilled to lead the grassroots clean energy movement in Winneshiek County. Kristin deeply appreciates rural communities, Northeast Iowa, community sustainability, and nonprofit management. She uses The Art of Hosting Conversations that Matter methodology and graphic recording services to drive strategic conversations around community sustainability, justice, fundraising, and nonprofit health.

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