Ask your server about Happy Hour Specials – Discounted prices on Food and Drinks from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. each day! Monday thru Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Catering and Carryout Available
Have you seen all the new deals on pre-owned inventory at Shore Motor Co?! Check out their ad on Page 4 of this issue!
216 N. 16th St. • Clarinda, IA • 712-850-1325
Postal Customer Local ECRWSS Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Clarinda, IA Permit No. 5
Blanchard • Braddyville • Clarinda • Coin • College Springs • Essex • Farragut • Imogene • Northboro • Shambaugh • Shenandoah • Yorktown
The Page County Post
VOL. 1 NO. 42 • 712-438-7438 • phil@pagecountypost.com • P.O. Box 122, Clarinda, Iowa, 51632 • Tuesday, January 6, 2026
NEW YEAR!! NEW SAVINGS!! Home Select
6.35 oz. Disposable Moisture Absorber — Dehumidifier, Fragrance Free, Absorbs Odor & 2x Weight in Water Mix and Match
Sale: $100 Reg. 2.99 Master Mechanic 6” Pro Utility Knife $
Sharp, Ideal for cutting drywall, fiberglass, wood, plastic, cardboard and many other materials. Heavy duty zinc body accepts all utility blades, 3 locked blade positions and blade storage in handle. 2 blades included.
Sale: $200 Reg. 3.79
ALL Remaining Christmas Decor 75% OFF
Garland, Bows, Outdoor Decor, Wrap, etc.
All Remaining Master Mechanic Individual sockets and wrenches
$
100 each!!! $
Sunnyside TSP
Trisodium Phosphate Cleaner Formulated for Heavy Duty Cleaning, Removes Greasy, Sooty Dirt & Prepares Surfaces for Painting.
Sale: 1 lb: $200 Reg. 6.99 3 lb: $500 Reg. 15.99 $
$
Master Electrician 3 Outlet Power Cord with 2 USB chargers. Black.
Sale: $600 Reg. $15.99
Prices good Tuesday, Jan. 6th through Saturday, Jan. 18th or while supplies last!
The Page County Post
2
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Mo Valley Tires Now Open in Shenandoah, Ia. 1870 A Avenue
Call Shane: 712-438-7688 DEATH NOTICE Shannon Rene’ Larson was born on January 3rd, 1974, to Merrill Larson and Harryette Anderson Larson. She was a 1992 graduate of Clarinda High School and a 1996 graduate of Central College in Pella Iowa. In her senior year at Central College, she spent a semester in Spain and always wanted to return someday. She was very active in theater in high school and college. One of the judges of her one-act play entry told her she should become a comedian. Even as a teacher, she was involved in one-act plays and speech contests. Shannon Shannon went on to teach Spanish for 11 years and was a guidance Rene’ counselor for 19 years, making many friends along the way. Larson She is preceded in death by her father, Merrill, in 2022, and her cat 1974-2025 Oliver in 2025. She is survived by her mother, Harryette, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Services for Shannon were held Friday, January 2, 2026, at 11 am with a visitation one hour prior, burial took place at Memory Cemetery in New Market, IA. Pastor Russ Clark officiated. Memorials to the family to be designated at a later time. Walker-Merrick-Billings Funeral Chapel assisted the family with the arrangements.
ANTIQUE JOHN’S AUCTION SEVERAL ESTATES SATURDAY JANUARY 10TH @ 10:00 505 EAST GLENN MILLER DRIVE, CLARINDA, IOWA ANTIQUES, FURNITURE, TOOLS, YARD AND GARDEN ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLE: BARBIE DOLL IN BOX, OLD DESK PHONE , BOTTLE COLLECTION (PERFUME, AVON), GLENN MILLER ALBUMS AND MEMORABILIA, CIGAR BOXES, DOLL CRADLE, ASH TRAYS, PHEASANT TAPESTRY, WW11 BOOKS, LEOPARD TAPESTRY, MILK BOTTLES, OLD COKE POP BOTTLES, INSULATORS, ANTIQUE HAND TOOLS, OLD KITCHEN SCALES, ALLADIN THERMOS, SHOE STRETCHERS, CAMERAS, ROLLER SKATES, MANY CRAFT TOOLS, WOODEN SLAT FOLDING CHAIRS, WOOL ARMY BLANKETS, H O TRAIN, GREEN DEPRESION SYRUP PITCHER, FIRE KING MUGS, MILK GLASS, PRECIOUS MOMENTS, CUPS AND SAUCERS, KNICK KNACKS, SOME JEWELRY, PENCIL SHARPNERS, RECEIPT BOXES, OLD DECORATIVE BOX, DIAMOND DYES DISPLAY CABINET, SHOE SHINE BOX, OLD TRUNKS, WALL MOUNT KEROSENE LAMP W/BRACKET, ROCKING HORSE CHAIR, OLD CAMERAS, COLLAR BOX, OLD PHOTO ALBUMS, OLD SINGER MACHINE HEAD, OLD CHINA (HAVALAND ROSE PRINT), 30-40 QUILTS, WOODEN 4H BOX, THIMBLES, BUTTONS, SEWING BASKETS, CARNIVAL GLASS, DEPRESSION GLASS, OLD SCHOOL DESK, HENS ON NEST. FURNITURE, KITCHEN AND MISC: OAK DESK, COFFEE TABLE, QUEEN SIZE BED, NEW HOME SEWING MACHINE IN CABINET, BOOK SHELVES, END TABLES, LAMPS, FOLDING CHAIRS, SNACK TRAYS, KENMORE SEWING MACHINE IN CABINET, LEATHER COUCH, FLOOR LAMPS, HOLLYWOOD BED FRAME, PARLOR ROCKER, 2 SEWING ROCKERS WITH CANE SEATS, CHAIR W/ OTTOMAN, OAK SECRETARY WITH CURVED GLASS, OAK HARVEST TABLE W/PULLOUT LEAVES AND 6 CHAIRS, BOTTOM OF SIDE BOARD (OAK), EMERSON STEREO, SONY TV, TV TABLE, OAK LIFT UP COFFEE TABLE, STORAGE CHEST, OLD MIRROR, LARGE ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, WALNUT CHEST WITH TEAR DROP PULLERS, WALNUT DRESSER W/HANKIE DRAWERS AND MARBLE INSET, OAK BLANKET CHEST, SERPENTINE DRESSER BOTTOM, BENCH MADE OUT OF A DRESSER, QUILT RACK, FOOT LOCKERS, DINETTE TABLE W/6 CHAIRS, OAK DINING TABLE W/4 CHAIRS, FLORAL AND LEAF PRINT COUCH, BLOND DOUBLE BED SET, LARGE COUCH, HUTCH, JENNY LIND DOUBLE BED, DRESSER, 3 BROWN LAZY BOY RECLINERS, MAPLE HUTCH, OAK KITCHEN CABINET, GLASS TOP TABLE W/2 CHAIRS, HAIER CHEST FREEZER, 2 TVS AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, FRIGIDAIRE REFRIGERATOR, FRIGIDAIRE UP RIGHT FREEZER, WHILPOOL DRYER, AMANA WASHER, KENMORE MICROWAVE, 32 CUP COFFEE MAKER, PUNCH BOWL, POTS AND PANS, WHITE REFRIGERATOR (FRIGIDAIRE), PFALTZCRAFT DISHES, OLD UTENSILS, COOK BOOKS, SMALL KITCHEN APPLIANCES, CHINA, WOOD TV TRAYS, BAKE WARE, CORNING WARE, GLASSES, CUPS AND MUGS, PIE PLATES, CROCK POT, HAND MIXER, KNIFE SET, SEWING MACHINE, OFFICE CHAIRS, HEATERS, QUILT BOOKS, FABRIC, ELECTRIC FIREPLACE, QUILT RACK, FANS, BINOCULARS, OVAL FRAME, LUGGAGE, FRAMES AND PICTURES, TRASH CANS, PILLOW CASES, WICKER HAMPER, GAMES, TABLE CLOTHS, WALL AND TABLE DECOR, VCR, PICNIC BASKET, QUILT FRAME, DVD PLAYER, BOXING BAG, ADDING MACHINES, BEACH TOWELS, EDEN PURE HEATER, RCA SMALL TV, LINENS, CHRISTMAS DECOR, NORDIC RYDER EXERCISER, PAPER SHREDDER, PAINTED HAND SAW, BASKETS, CONVALESCENT ITEMS, VACCUM, COOLERS, HUMIDIFIER, SMOKING STAND, CB RADIOS, RUGS, 8 TRACK TAPES, CD’S, 45’S RECORDS, PORTABLE TYPEWRITER, DUMBBELL WEIGHTS, SKIS, OVAL BRAIDED RUG. TOOLS, YARD, AND GARDEN: HAY RAKE WHEEL, METAL WHEELS, LONG TOOLS FOR YARD AND GARDEN, AIR COMPRESSOR, CAMPING SUPPLIES, DROP CORDS, METAL LAWN CHAIRS, BAG CHAIRS, LAWN CHAIRS, POULAN CHAIN SAW, WHEEL BARROW, BUG ZAPPER, PET CARRIER, WEED EATER/BLOWER, LAWN AERATOR, GAS CANS, SHEPHERD’S HOOKS, 16’ EXTENSION LADDER (ALUMINUM), CARGO STABILIZER, 15’X 13’ SCREEN HOUSE, STANLEY 1/4-3/8 SOCKET SET, NAILS, SCREWS, SMALL SHOP VAC., 50000 BTU REDDY HEATER, TRAILER HITCH BALLS, PORTABLE AIR COMPRESSOR, HANDY MAN JACK, FULL SIZE PICKUP BED LINER, RYOBI CIRCULAR SAW, TOOL CHEST, STANLEY LEVEL, DRILLS, SANDER, ALUMINUM LAWN MOWER RAMPS, 10’ ALUMINUM WARNER LADDER, 3’X4’ LAWN CART, PINIC TABLE, FIFTH WHEEL PICKUP TAIL GATE, 15K FIFTH WHEEL HITCH, STEP STOOL, LOT OF HAND TOOLS, PROPANE GRILL, TABLE TOP DRILL PRESS, LAWN CART, LEAF BLOWER, SNOW THROWER, FERTILIZER SPREADER, YARD WINDMILL, MANY OTHER ITEMS YET TO COME IN. CLUB CAR GOLF CART.
ANTIQUE JOHN’S AUCTION JOHN WILLIAMS, AUCTIONEER 712-542-0710 MATTHEW REGAN AND GARY SCROGGIE, AUCTIONEERS LUNCH WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM LOIS DAVISON
Chad Porter, Owner 402-306-1597
24 Hour Roadside Assistance 24 Hour In-Field Service movalleytires@gmail.com
Classifieds AUTOMOBILES FOR SALE 1990 Chevy 2500 4WD, Car cover for a 2021 Toyota long bed, rough, but solid Avalon, half price, never engine, transmission and used, 712-246-9999 tires, 712-246-5016 For Sale in Shenandoah, 2011 RAM 1500 Hemi, SLT, IA: Turn-key upscale with topper, 92,000 miles, ladies consignment shop. 218-639-0686 In business nearly two 2011 Nissan Juke, blue, years with currently 200 low miles, clean car, $4,250, +/- consignees. Selling due to owner's ongoing health 712-789-2026 problems. $45,000. Contact 2014 Jeep Patriot, silver, Jackie Travis @ 712-2154x4, 150k miles, $4,300, 9027 or 712-581-9071 runs great! 712-789-2026 ProForm electric fold-up FOR HIRE treadmill, L18, wide deck, Lady will clean, cook, $100, 712-246-9999. house-sit, people or animal care, 402-547-3712 Ping Golf Clubs: Irons, 3-9; Woods, Driver, 3, 4, 5, Call FOR RENT 402-981-5830 OR SALE Crystal Glassware and Oak coffee end table with dishes, rent or buy, 402-547- one drawer and glass top, 3712. asking $40, 712-215-5206
Ceramic lamp with floral design, shade included, $25, 712-215-5206
APARTMENT FOR RENT
Disassembled complete set of numbered piano keys. 712-202-6333
One bedroom apartment for ages 55 and older and/or disabled. Utilities paid, small pets allowed.
2 8x10 tarps, brand new in package, 712-246-5440 4 Brand New Trash Barrels with wheels, Rubber Neck, 32-gallon, never been used 712-246-5440 Vintage Huffy Dr. Pepper Bike, boys 26-inch, 712246-5440 4 metal lawn chairs, 712246-5440 Professional decorative silver wooden frame, 6 inches wide. For 12X16 picture. Hangs horizontally or vertically. 712-202-6333 Restored antique furniture and weather vanes, Clarinda, 712-438-1940
PETS Purebred Great Dane puppies born Dec. 1. Still have 4 available. Both mom and dad are in the home. Have had genetic testing and 100% healthy. Puppies will have age appropriate vaccinations and dew claws removed. Taking deposits for special requests – 531999-0539 ask for Tiphany
Autumn Park Apartments 201 N. Blossom St., Shenandoah, IA Phone 712-246-4898
Tree Trimming • Removal • Stump Grinding Insured • Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates Red Oak 712-623-8118 Clarinda 712-542-8111 Serving all of Southwest Iowa
Deadline for classifieds is Thursday at Noon for the following Tuesday's publication. Classified ads run until the item sells. Please notify us when the item sells.
Fresh Start Church 322 E. Grant, Clarinda
Bishop Troy Sawyers @ 712-471-2403 Fresh Start Church will be a Spirit-Filled Church, having the understanding that God’s Grace is like hitting a reset button for our lives. Come as you are – starting anew – finding a place where you belong, letting God take the broken pieces of your life; making them into a purpose once again. (God’s mercies are new every day – because His compassion fails not - let us be reminded—so our hope sustains). — Lamentations 3:21-23
To place your ad in the
Page County Post just call Phil at 712-438-7438 or email: phil@pagecountypost.com
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
The Page County Post
3
Local libraries promoting NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING mind, body, and community BY LIZ SKILLERN
lizskillern2@gmail.com
As winter settles in, both the Clarinda and Shenandoah public libraries are offering creative, communityfocused programs designed to support mental and physical wellness during the colder months. Although the programs are not formally connected, Lied Public Library in Clarinda and Shenandoah Public Library are each launching six-week initiatives with a shared goal: helping patrons stay engaged, active, and connected throughout winter. “We are both seeking to do the same thing,” said Andrew Hoppman, director of Lied Public Library in Clarinda. “Winter can be tough for many people, and libraries are uniquely positioned to provide welcoming, low-
begin by pressure opportunities that Participants support overall well-being.” journaling three good things each day, focusing on gratitude and awareness. Clarinda: Beat • Week 2 (Jan. 19–24): the Winter Blues Lied Public Library’s Socialize by bringing a program, Beat the Winter friend to the library for Blues, runs from January puzzles, games, or coloring, 12 through February 21 and or by checking out a game to encourages participants to enjoy at home. • Week 3 (Jan. 26–31): complete weekly challenges focused on wellness, Eat healthy by attending reflection, and community a culinary program on Monday, Jan. 29 at 6 p.m., connection. Participants must sign up picking up a healthy recipe, in person at the library and or checking out a cookbook. receive a journal, which • Week 4 (Feb. 2–7): Get they will use throughout organized by checking out the program to answer books that offer tips for three reflective questions decluttering and managing each week. Anyone who stress. completes at least four of the • Week 5 (Feb. 9–14): six weekly challenges will be Exercise by attending a entered into a prize drawing free Chair Yoga class at the at the end of the program. library on Tuesday, Feb. 10 Each week highlights a at 9:30 a.m. or Thursday, Feb. 12 at 11:30 a.m., or different theme: • Week 1 (Jan. 12–17): by checking out fitness
resources. • Week 6 (Feb. 16–21): Crafting opportunities include a Create program on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 1 p.m. or a take-home craft kit. The program addresses what many refer to as the “winter blues,” a mild seasonal slump that can include fatigue, irritability, changes in sleep, and reduced motivation. “Eating well, staying active, organizing your space, and engaging your mind are all small steps that can have a big impact,” Hoppman said. “We wanted this to feel manageable and encouraging, not overwhelming.” Shenandoah: Winter Wellness Shenandoah
Public
See LIBRARIES, PAGE 7
will hold its
127th Annual Meeting Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at our office,
123 East Main Street Clarinda, Iowa Members are invited to attend. CLIP & SAVE
2607 US HWY 59 Shenandoah, IA $ 319,000 3 Bed | 2 Bath 2.22 Acres
1614 410th Ave. Shenandoah, IA $ 320,000 4 Bed | 2 Bath 2.61 Acres
Janell McIntyre • 712-246-1072 Kim Walker • 712-370-0805 Rhonda Byers • 712-215-0448 Andy Spiegel • 660-744-3685 Risa Graham • 712-303-0065 Mary Pelster • 712--246-1072
102 E. Valley St. Shenandoah, IA $ 129,500 3 Bed | 1 Bath Lot Size: 60x115
for EASTER’S TRUE VALUE in the Page County Post and also follow us on Facebook for updates and specials.
11190 US Hwy. 275 Rock Port, MO $ 425,000 4 Bed | 2 Bath 24 Acres CLIP & SAVE
COUPON
123 S. 20th St. Clarinda, IA $ 86,000 4 Bed | 2 Bath Lot Size: 60x120
COUPON
Thank you for shopping with us in 2025! We look forward to serving you in 2026! NEW things coming in ‘26, so be sure to look
The Page County Post
4
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
New Year New Deals S313B
T027B
2018 Chevy Traverse
2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT
2019 GMC Yukon XL
Original Price: 20,900
Original Price: 32,900
Original Price: $33,400
$
$
SN03A
Your Price: $19,900 Your Price: $31,900 Your Price: $30,900 SM01A
S283A
S269A
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali
2023 Chevy Equinox Premier
2023 Chevy Tahoe LS
Original Price: $47,900
Original Price: $27,400
Original Price: $47,900
Your Price: $45,900 Your Price: $26,900 Your Price: $44,900 T041A
S114A
2023 Chevy Traverse Premier
2023 KIA Telluride SX Prestige
2024 Chevy Blazer 2LT
Original Price: 39,900
Original Price: 42,900
Original Price: $25,450
$
$
SR02
Your Price: $38,900 Your Price: $40,900 Your Price: $24,900 T020A
S322A
S088A
2024 Chevy Equinox Premier
2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 RST
2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali
Original Price: $29,400
Original Price: $46,400
Original Price: $54,900
Your Price: $28,900 Your Price: $45,900 Your Price: $52,900 SP03A
SP01A
SS07
2024 Jeep Gladiator Willys
2025 Chevy Traverse AWD
2025 Kia Carnival
Original Price: $39,900
Original Price: $41,900
Original Price: $39,900
Your Price: $38,900 Your Price: $40,900 Your Price: $38,900
712-542-6581 | Clarinda, Iowa shoremotor.com
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
The Page County Post
5
The Page County Post
6
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
PHOTO PROVIDED
OH, THE PLACES YOU'LL GO Members of the Shenandoah Education Association and Shenandoah Medical Center’s Labor and Delivery team gather with donated books that will be given to newborns and their families, helping each baby begin their journey with a first book of their own.
SEA donates books to newborns at SMC BY LIZ SKILLERN
lizskillern2@gmail.com
The Shenandoah Education Association (SEA) is helping local newborns begin their educational journey from day one through a generous donation of books to the Labor and Delivery Department at Shenandoah Medical Center (SMC).
More than 120 books were recently donated and will be given to families as babies are born at SMC, ensuring each child goes home with their very first book. “This project was made possible not only through a grant but through the personal kindness of our local teachers and retired teachers who donated their own money to make
sure every baby born at Shenandoah Medical Center goes home with their very first book,” said Haley Weis, SMC Foundation director. “It’s never too early to start a library, and we are so touched that our local educators are investing in our littlest neighbors before they even reach the classroom.” See SEA, Page 7
Bulletin Board
Get your business card on the Bulletin Board!
712-438-7438
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
The Page County Post
7
DID YOU KNOW?
Have you ever seen a cucumber tree?
Did you know there was such a thing in Page County?
By DORIS McKINNON
Special Contributor to The Page County Post
This cucumber tree is in Blanchard, Iowa, on a lot owned by Clayton and Laurie Brownfield. If you wish to schedule
a time to visit with the Brownfields, call 712-3703068. As I visited with Clayton, and I quote … “I am very protective of the tree and will see it is never cut down while I am alive.”
SEA
FROM PAGE 6 Weis added that the donation carries even greater meaning as access to maternity care becomes more limited across the state. “As Labor and Delivery services are becoming increasingly rare across the state of Iowa, seeing our community rally to welcome the newest families in our area is really special,” she said. “This gift from our teachers sends a message that these babies are cared for and valued in our community from day one.” SEA member Mary Peterson, a special education instructor at Shenandoah High School, explained that the project began after the group received a $500 Community Outreach grant from the Iowa State Education Association (ISEA). “We planned to purchase about 50 books to donate to SMC to be given to families when they had a baby,” Peterson said. “We felt this would be a great way to help every baby get a start on a great education and allow every parent to have a book to read to their baby.” SEA members and retired educators were invited to donate books or contribute funds in addition to the grant. As a result, the group was able to donate a total of 128 books. “This is the first time we have done this, and we hope when the books are given, families will see the importance of reading and know that educators are here to support them even before entering the school system,” Peterson added. “We are hopeful this can continue once the first donation is fully distributed.” Eric Holste, chief operations officer at SMC, said the project highlights the strong connection between the community’s educators and health care providers. “This warms my heart and makes me so proud that our community educators and our community hospital are working together to support the next generation,” Holste said. “This gift is just another example of how invested our teachers are in setting positive things in motion for future generations.” SEA leaders said they are proud of the project and grateful for the opportunity to partner with SMC’s Labor and Delivery Department to share the gift of reading with local families.
LIBRARIES FROM PAGE 3
Library, launched a new program called Winter Wellness and it runs from January 5 through February 12. It is the first time the library has offered a program of this kind. “Our weekly themes were chosen in collaboration with businesses that are part of the Shenandoah Chamber and Industry Association,” said Bevin Anderzhon, circulation librarian. “The ideas really grew out of those conversations, and the result is a program that extends beyond the library walls and into the community.” The program began with a launch party on January 5, where attendees learned about the effects of winter on mental and physical health, including information from the National Institutes of Health on Seasonal Affective Disorder. Weekly themes include: • Get Creative (Jan. 12–17): Craft kits and a watercolor class. • Let Out Your Inner Child (Jan. 19–24): Free skeeball tickets at Sports Plex. • Get Moving (Jan. 26–31): Yoga opportunities through Serenity Spa. • Enjoy Food & Friendship (Feb. 2–6): Community games and free donuts from Donut Stop. • Reflect and Be Grateful: Gratitude journaling with materials provided by Angels Care Home Health. Each week, participants pick up a ticket at the library with the activity and information about how that week’s theme supports wellness. In addition, the library is offering Winter Wellness Bingo, a self-care challenge available throughout the program. Bingo tasks include simple activities such as reading, stretching, decluttering, calling a friend, enjoying a hot beverage, or spending time outdoors. Participants who complete a bingo can return their card to the library to earn a badge. “We hope people will connect to their community and see how many resources are available to support them,” Anderzhon said. “This program reflects the evolving role of the library. What’s good for Shenandoah as a whole is good for the library.” She emphasized that the program is intentionally lowpressure. “If anyone is hesitant, I’d encourage them to see it as low-stakes and high-fun,” Anderzhon said. “Every activity works for a wide range of ages, and families are especially encouraged to participate together.” Both libraries agree that while winter can be challenging, small, intentional actions - especially when shared with others - can make a meaningful difference. For more information, patrons are encouraged to visit their local library in person.
My interest in this tree has long standing. I have lived in Blanchard since four years of age and all through my education years, graduating from my beloved Blanchard Memorial High School. During my youth I delivered papers to the locals. Every day I would pass under this cucumber tree with much interest. It is so unusual. My curiosity led me to check with (Google) to see what was recorded there. This is what I found: “The cucumber tree is a large, cold-hardy Magnolia, native to the eastern United States and southern Ontario, Canada. It can grow up to 125 feet tall, but is usually shorter. It usually tends to occur singly as scattered specimens rather than in a forest-type setting. I would watch it as yellow blooms would appear in the spring. Then, its fruits, resembling cucumbers would appear. Then in fall, it would drop its leaves and the cucumbers would drop. The tree would then rest for the winter. Then, in the spring, its cycle of sustaining its life would begin again. It was so amazing to follow its cycle each year. The cucumber tree is definitely not native to this area. They are mainly in the Appalachian area and southern areas of the United States. Another name they have is Blue Magnolia … Magnolia Acuminats. Some personal knowledge I have gleaned over the years are much of shared knowledge or hearsay from the townsfolk. Mary Ellen Martin lived in the house where the tree continued to grow each year. It seems the first owner of the property went on vacation to the southern states and returned with the seedling, which has
continued to survive out of its natural habitat. Ken and Kathy Balster of Blanchard too the pictures shown here. As he has said, and I am speaking of Clayton, he will protect the tree. So, as they were photographing the tree, he checked out their interest there. On a personal note, I know the tree is more than 90 years old. I was four years old in 1936, when my parents John and Edna Nance moved our family to Blanchard. My dad was a blacksmith there for 50 years. I carried papers to those of the community for six years and have enjoyed the cucumber tree, its beauty and the unusual fact that it has survived all these years resident of Blanchard is a that she has acquired. Her history buff and would be phone number is 712-350out of its climate. Wendy Brownfield, a glad to share information 4982.
Eiler Senior Living best of SW Iowa BY LIZ SKILLERN
lizskillern2@gmail.com
Eiler Senior Living in Clarinda has been named the Best Retirement/Assisted Living Community in the 2025 Best of Southwest Iowa Awards, adding to the community’s recent national recognition as a 2025 Best Assisted Living provider by U.S. News & World Report. The Best of Southwest Iowa Awards are determined entirely by public participation. This year’s program received more than 2,400 nominations and nearly 15,000 votes from residents across the region. Eiler Senior Living was selected from a wide field of senior living providers for its quality of care, resident satisfaction, and commitment to serving seniors and their families. For Executive Director Ashley Phillips, the honors reflect more than awards they represent trust. “Receiving these awards really speaks to the relationships and trust we’ve built with our residents, families, and
the greater community,” Phillips said. “Our team is incredibly dedicated to caring for our seniors, and we’re proud to see their hard work recognized. For our residents, it’s reassuring to know they live in a place that is respected and trusted by the community.” Located at 920 W. Garfield St. in Clarinda, Eiler Senior Living, also known as Eiler Place, offers assisted living, memory care, respite care, and high-acuity care for seniors throughout Page County and the surrounding area. The community features private apartments with kitchenettes, walk-in showers, and built-in safety features, along with amenities such as housekeeping, laundry services, scheduled transportation, and 24-hour staffing. Phillips believes what truly sets Eiler apart is the culture created by its staff. “We go above and beyond to create a warm, home-like setting for our residents,” she said. “The personal relationships we build with seniors and their families
truly set us apart. People feel the difference when they walk through our doors.” That culture shows itself in both everyday care and meaningful moments. Phillips shared that staff members have helped furnish apartments for seniors during times of crisis, supported residents who do not have family nearby, coordinated vow renewals, and celebrated residents’ talents and accomplishments. “When we look back, it’s amazing to see the memories we’ve helped create and the bonds that form with each family we meet,” she said. Beyond physical care, Eiler Senior Living places a strong emphasis on quality of life. Residents are encouraged to remain involved in decisions about their care, helping them maintain independence while still receiving support. A full calendar of activities from wellness programs and social clubs to themed events and live entertainment promotes connection, purpose, and engagement. “Our residents are encouraged to be involved
in decisions about their care, which helps them maintain independence,” Phillips said. “We also prioritize connection by offering meaningful activities and opportunities to engage with others, both within the community and beyond.” Phillips, a Clarinda native, has served as executive director for nearly three years. During that time, she has seen significant growth in both the community and its culture. “It really means we’re headed in a very positive direction,” she said. “Our culture is in a really good place, and we’ve seen tremendous growth over the past year. It speaks to the work our team is doing every day.” Looking ahead, Phillips said the recognitions serve as motivation to continue raising the bar. “Providing a high standard of care and resident satisfaction continues to be the driving force behind everything we do,” she said. “Our goal is to remain a trusted partner and a place families feel confident calling home.”
8 The Page County Post
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Monday, Jan. 5th thru Sunday, Jan. 12th Clarinda: 1200 S. 16th Street | Shenandoah: 500 S. Fremont Street | Red Oak: 1605 N. Broadway Street
3/$10.00 Dasani
24 pack 1/2 liter bottles
2.99
$
Hickory Country Bacon 16 oz.
3799
$
Core Power
12 Pack 14 oz. bottles