News

Who: Canton Community Association
What: New Years Day Bingo and Soup Contest
Where: ZZTAP, Canton, MN
When: Jan. 1,2025      Enter your famous soup by 11:30, Tasting starts @ 12:00, Results for soup prior to Bingo starting @1:00
Why: We are raising money for 2025 Canton Day Off Celebration in August.

The 48th Annual Allamakee Ecumenical Christmas Concert: A Night of Harmony and Holiday Spirit

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better way to embrace the spirit of Christmas than by attending the 48th Annual Allamakee Ecumenical Christmas Concert at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Waukon, IA. This cherished community tradition returns Sunday, December 8, at 7:00 PM, offering an evening of inspiring music, heartfelt storytelling, and Christmas cheer.

For nearly five decades, this concert has brought people together, and this year’s event promises to be as magical as ever. Whether you’re joining in person at St. John’s Lutheran Church, located at 8 Fifth Street SW, or tuning in via Facebook Live on St. John’s Lutheran Church’s Facebook Page, this is a must-attend celebration of the season!

A Festive Program to Delight All

The evening will feature local clergy sharing the timeless Christmas Story, accompanied by congregational carol singing with organ accompaniment. But the magic doesn’t stop there!

Musical highlights include:
🎵 The Men’s Choir, known as the Heartland Barbershop and Gospel Singers, delivering soul-stirring choral numbers.
🎵 The mass Ecumenical Choir, bringing all voices together in harmony.
🎵 Performances by the St. John’s Youth and Adult Handbell Choirs, adding a unique, resonant touch.
🎵 The talented WHS Saxophone Quartet, offering their holiday flair.
🎵 Piano accompaniment by Kristie Roeder and organ performances by James Bieber with the assistance of Kathy Murray.

A Spotlight on Soloists

Baritone soloist Shauna Johnsen, Postville Band Director, will be featured, as well as Sarah Hagen, of Allamakee Community Players and WHS’s Assistant Musical Director, whose radiant voice will join the Men’s Choir and shine in a special performance of “Pie Jesu” from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Requiem. Hagen will perform this moving duet with Sarah J. Bieber, daughter of concert director James Bieber and the Waukon Middle and High School Choral Director and Musical Director.

A Tradition Led by Talented Hands

Under the expert guidance of James Bieber, with his daughter Sarah Bieber as assistant director, this program brings together generations of talent and tradition. The two have been performing together and assisting each other on hundreds of musical occasions.

Don’t Miss Out!

This free concert is open to everyone, so bring your family and friends for an unforgettable evening of holiday joy. Immediately following the concert, please join us in the church’s basement for refreshments and fellowship! Can’t attend in person? Join us virtually on Facebook Live on the St. John’s Lutheran Church’s Facebook Page or listen live on KNEI 103.5 or kneiradio.com and experience the concert from the comfort of your home.

Let the music of Christmas fill your heart and celebrate the season in the company of community and tradition. We’ll see you there!