ESTHERVILLE — Iowa Lakes Community College's criminal justice program, under the leadership of Dr. Michael Elbert, is hosting a dynamic speaker series this fall, designed to immerse students in the criminal justice career path through real-world experiences and industry connections.

The Spencer Ambassadors visited Shoe Sensation, on Tuesday, for an official grand reopening ribbon cutting. Manager Kim Stevens shared that the store has been completely renovated, remodeled and rearranged since the June flood. While it took a lot of effort to reopen, they’re now back and ready to serve the area’s footwear needs. (Photo submitted)

The Palms Theaters at Southpark Mall are nearing the end of their flood repairs after the June 22 flood spoiled the opening of the movie theater’s multimillion-dollar remodel last summer.

A pair of Clay County teens have been arraigned on felony burglary charges after police say they broke into an apartment in Spencer and attacked two people.

As October nears Halloween, Spencer-based Shayla Bee welcomed Jeff and Kelly Metzler, as well as their 16-year-old son Justin, of Palmer, as the organization’s 285th family. Justin was involved in a dirt bike accident in May, sustaining multiple major fractures of his spine and is a complete paraplegic. He and his buddies are big haunted house fans so, Saturday night, The Bango Haunted Crib in Schaller hosted the presentation prior to the opening for the evening.

EVERLY — Maggie Schoelerman, of Everly, took top honors in the Babydoll Sheep show judged at the 2024 Iowa State Fair, Aug. 8-18. She was awarded the Champion Ram and Ewe banners and first place in the Premier Exhibitor contest; and placed first in 15 showings, including four where she also earned second.

Trick-or-treaters took over Grand Avenue, Saturday afternoon, ahead of the a few days ahead of the spooky holiday as Spencer Main Street hosted MASKerade on Main Street. Businesses downtown handed out candy to costumed children (and adults). The weekend concluded with long lines at Trunk-or-Treat hosted by Hope Church. Halloween night, kids will take to the streets in search of candy and scares. (Photo submitted)

A ribbon cutting ceremony took place last week to officially open the Spencer Public Library’s brand new Music Garden. The ribbon was cut outside with the attendees, and the instruments were available. Refreshments were served in the library. (Photos submitted)

Spencer Hospital's annual audit report reveals significant improvements over the past year, despite persistent challenges with supply chain costs, workforce shortages and patient revenue.

The Spencer Community School Board is taking steps to explore a potential renovation of the aging high school field house, a facility that has served the district for nearly 75 years.

Superintendent Terry Hemann broached the subject during the Tuesday, Oct. 22, regular school board meeting. He said the field house was originally constructed in 1952, and despite receiving several updates over the years, it is starting to show its age.

The Spencer Community School District is facing a decline in enrollment, but the district is working to maintain strong attendance numbers despite the challenges.

According to the latest data presented at the Tuesday, Oct. 22, regular school board meeting, the June 22 flood has taken a toll on the district's certified enrollment. The annual count saw the district’s enrollment drop from 2,011.84 during the 2023-24 school year to 1,950.17 this year — a decrease of 61.67 students.

Dollar General announced its store, at 110 W. 24th St. in Spencer, is now open. To celebrate, the location planned a grand opening event on Saturday at 8 a.m., including $10 complimentary gift cards to the first 50 adult customers and Dollar General tote bags to the first 100 customers.

The Clay County Fair Association is currently searching for eligible candidates to join its board of directors and encourages interested community members to become part of the Clay County Fair Association. This year, the Fair Association’s annual meeting and election of the board of directors has been moved to Feb. 25 creating a new opportunity for interested individuals to get involved.

The Clay County Community Foundation Disaster Recovery Fund received a $25,000 donation from Farm Credit Services. The funds are being used to support flood recovery efforts in Clay County. To date over $300,000 has been granted from CCCF DRF to 24 organizations for projects directly assisting with flood recovery.

A dance, sponsored by Dance 4 Fun, will be held on Saturday, Nov. 2, at the Hap Kettleson Community Center in Everly. Doors will open at 6:15 p.m., with the dance conducted is from 7-10:30 p.m. The band is Galaxy. Feel free to bring snacks to share. Singles and married couples are welcome. (Photo submitted)