North Tama Title 1 Reading teacher Amy Lidgett pictured on Friday, May 30, in the North Tama main gym after being announced as the 2025 Winding Stairs Festival Parade Grand Marshal alongside her husband Tony (not pictured). CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

TRAER – In a touching and emotional moment at North Tama Elementary’s end-of-year HEART assembly held on Friday, May 30, Amy and Tony Lidgett were officially invited to serve as Grand Marshals for the 2025 Winding Stairs Festival Parade which is set to take place this August.

The surprise invitation was delivered by Winding Stairs Festival Committee members – and Amy’s fellow educators – Molly Ramirez and Leigh Sell. In front of students and staff they read a heartfelt tribute to Amy, honoring her strength, spirit, and unwavering dedication.

“This teacher embodies dedication and grace in all that she does,” Ramirez began, “Whether it’s through her unwavering commitment to her family, her students, her photography, or her friendships, she gives fully of herself – always with poise, never asking for anything in return.

“Even while facing one of life’s most difficult challenges – battling cancer – she continues to approach each day with strength, courage, and remarkable positivity. Her devotion to her work, her loved ones, and her community has never wavered.

“By her side every step of the way is her husband, offering quiet strength and support – whether he’s holding a light for her photography or sitting with her through long hospital visits. Together, they exemplify kindness, resilience, and the very best of what it means to be good-hearted people.

Amy and Tony Lidgett. PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK

“It is with great admiration and gratitude that we would like to honor Amy and her husband by inviting them to serve as the 2025 Grand Marshals of the Traer Winding Stairs Festival this August.”

The crowd erupted in applause as the invitation concluded with a simple but powerful question: “Amy, would you and your husband accept this honor?”

Amy, visibly moved, accepted the invitation with heartfelt gratitude, receiving a standing ovation from her students and colleagues.

The Winding Stairs Festival, a beloved Traer tradition, celebrates the community’s rich history and tight-knit spirit. This year’s choice of Grand Marshals perfectly embodies that spirit. The Lidgetts are a shining example of strength, love, and perseverance.

The 2025 Winding Stairs Festival will take place the weekend of August 8-9, with the parade set to march through Traer on Saturday, Aug 9. Community members are encouraged to come out and show their support for Amy, Tony, and the many others who make Traer a truly special place to call home.

North Tama’s Molly Ramirez (center) and Leigh Sell (right) – members of the Winding Stairs Festival Committee – congratulate fellow educator Amy Lidgett during an end-of-year assembly held last Friday (May 30) in the main gym in Traer. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO