ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLE, FURNITURE, HOUSEWARES, GARDEN AND YARD, TOOLS ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLE: KINGS CROWN SNACK SET, LANTERNS, JEWELRY, PAINTED PLATES AND BOWLS, SEVERAL PIECES OF GREEN DEPRESSION, FULL BOX OF TINKERTOYS, LG. ORNATE FRAME, FERN STANDS, LG. WHITE ROSEVILLE VASE, SMALL BROWN CROCK BOWL, BLUE CROCK BOWL W/DESIGN, LT. GREEN CROCK BOWL W/LID AND DESIGN, SEVERAL LONGABERGER BASKETS, LIGHTHOUSE DÉCOR., HULL VASE, ENAMIL WARE, LOT OF CRYSTAL ITEMS, AMISH ITEMS, S&P SETS, NAPKIN RINGS, CANDLE STICKS, KNICK KNACKS, COUKOO CLOCK, WOODEN BOXES, OLD TOYS, PAPER WEIGHTS.CD’S, DVD’S, VHS TAPES, MUSIC BOXES, MANY PICTURES, CHICKEN LAMP, CERAMIC CHICKEN STATUE, STAIN GLASS FLOOR LAMP, TABLE TOP STAIN GLASS LAMP, POTTERY ITEMS, WOOD BOWL, WOOD LEAFS, SEA SHELLS, VIEW MASTER, BAKELITE RADIO, WICKER BASKETS, ANTIQUE ICE SKATES, OLD GAMES, RECORD ALBUMS, WOODEN SLED, COMPLETE SET OF PFALTZGRAFF “VILLAGE”, WOODEN BREAD BOX. FURNITURE, HOUSEWARES, AND MISC., OLDER BEDROOM SET W/CHEST OF DRAWERS, LANE CEDAR CHEST, STANDING JEWELRY CABINET, TALL POSTER BEDROOM SET W(LG. CHEST OF DRAWERS, NIGHT STAND, HEAD AND FOOT BOARD), WHITE 6 DRAWER DRESSER W/MIRROR, QUEEN ANNE OAK DINING SET (2 LEAVES, 6 CANE BACK CHAIRS, MATCHING HUTCH), ICE CREAM CHAIR, 5 PIECE MAPLE RATTAN (SOFA, LOVESEAT, CHAIR AND OTTOMAN, COFFEE TABLE AND CUSHIONS), 5 PIECE RATTAN TABLE WITH GLASS TOP (SMALL TABLE , 4 CHAIRS AND CUSHIONS), BROWN LAZY BOY RECLINER, GLIDER CHAIR, FILE CABINETS, FLOOR LAMPS, 3 BAR STOOLS, BOOKCASES, CARD TABLES, 4’ FOLDING TABLE, MAPLE HIGH BOY DRESSER, WATERFALL VANITY, TWIN BED W/UNDER STORAGE, LAMP TABLES, LAZY BOY RECLINER, BLUE FLORAL SOFA, OAK DINETTE TABLE WITH FOUR ROLLER CHAIRS, DANISH MODERN CHINA CABINETS, DRESSER AND MATCHING CHEST OF DRAWERS, QUEEN ANNE LAMP TABLES, COAT RACK, SOFA, LOUNGING CHAIR, SIDE TABLES, LARGE ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, QUEEN SIZE PLATFORM BED WITH HEAD BOARD, WHITE 4 DRAWER CHEST, WHITE STORAGE CABINET, QUILT RACKS, WHITE END TABLE, MASSIVE GLASS FRONT CHINA CABINET, OAK LAMP TABLE, TALL SMALL 5 DRAWER CHEST, SHORT GLASS FRONT CHINA HUTCH, WOOD ROCKING CHAIR, STEMWARE, JELLO MOLDS, BAR TYPE TALL TABLE W/2 CHAIRS, KITCHEN ITEMS, PUNCH BOWLS, PAMPERED CHEF BAKING STONES, SMALL KITCHEN APPLIANCES, COOK WARE, BAKING DISHES, COOKBOOKS, CROCK POTS, ROASTER, UTENSILS, SILVERWARE, WOK, COLANDER, CORAL STONE WARE DISHES, WOOD LAZY SUSAN, SMALL MICROWAVE, ALUMINUM MIXING BOWLS, CORNING WARE, NICE TV TRAYS, CORN DOG MAKER, TUPPERWARE, MEAT GRINDER, POTS AND PANS, LARGE JACK-O-LANTERN, SOUND DESIGN STEREO SYSTEM, BASKET STAND, PAPER CUTTER, BAKERS RACK, PAPER SHREDDER, VASES/CANDLES, MIRROR SCONES, BOOM BOX, QUILTING BOOKS AND MAGAZINES, QUILTING CUTTING BOARD, WOODEN IRONING BOARD, MILK BOTTLES, CLOCK, FANS, MANY PICTURES, HAND WEIGHTS, FLOWERS, DOILIES, IRONS, BLANKETS, WHEEL CHAIR, VIZIO TV, DECORATED TOWELS, WEIGHTED BLANKET, LINENS, DÉCOR. ITEMS, SMALL STEP LADDER, OFFICE CHAIRS, RUGS, TABLE CLOTHS, NEW KITCHEN TOWELS, ASST. LINENS, BEDSPREADS. TOOLS, YARD AND GARDEN: RIGID SHOP VAC, DEWALT SAWZALL, MISC SMALL. HAND TOOLS, HAMMERS AND ETC., CRAFTSMAN 5 PIECE LARGE WRENCHES, PIPE WRENCH, SOCKET SETS, CAMPBELL HAUSFIELD 12 VOLT IN FLAT, CRAFTSMAN CORDED CIRCULAR SAW, HITACK 3 ¼ PLANER, PORTABLE AIR TANK, WORK PRO 2700 PSI POWER WASHER, WORK MATE, NUT AND BOLT ORGANIZER, BENCH GRINDER REMINGTON POLE SAW, EXTENSION CORDS, PLASTIC WHEEL BARROW, EXTENSION LADDER PLUS OTHERS, MOTORCYCLE RAMPS, ANTIQUE WRENCHES, FUNNELS, JUMPER CABLES, BARN PULLEYS, LAWN AND GARDEN TOOLS, PATIO TABLE AND UMBRELLA, COOLERS, METAL LAWN CHAIR, PATIO CHAIRS AND TABLE, WOODEN SLED, CONCRETE STEPS, OUTDOOR ITEMS (FROGS, CATS, PLANTERS, FISH. 61” COMMERCIAL POULAN MOWER. 26 HP KAWASAKI ENGINE. 240 HOURS. ZERO TURN. MULCHING BLADE IS ON MOWER. NEW BELT 1 YEAR OLD. FRESH OIL AND JUST SERVICED. NEW SET OF BLADES STILL PACKAGED. 2 KEYS AND OWNERS MANUAL.
ANTIQUE JOHN’S AUCTION
JOHN WILLIAMS AUCTIONEER 542-0710
GRANDMA FILES
The Sweetest Job I Never Applied For
By LIZ SKILLERN
No one ever asked for my résumé. There was no interview. No orientation. No training manual. And yet somehow, I hold the title of “Grandma.”
The first time I heard “Grandma” from a tiny voice that could already talk back, negotiate bedtime, and ask deep questions about the world, I knew life had changed.
Vivian was not a quiet introduction to grandparenthood. She arrived with personality plus. At six, she has definite opinions, plans, and what I can only describe as strong leadership tendencies. Especially now. Because a few months ago, I held seven pounds of brand-new life - Bennett Joseph - and realized it changes again. There is something about cradling a newborn that resets your heart. He fits perfectly in the crook of my arm, all softness and possibility. He sighs. He stretches. He sleeps like it’s his full-time job.
And hovering nearby is his big sister.
Vivian has fully embraced her role as Assistant Manager of All Things Baby.
She insists on helping change diapers, and she corrects my “baby” technique. “Grandma, you have to support his head better.” “Grandma, that wipe goes in the trash.” “Grandma, you should pat his bottom like this.”
I have been officially retrained.
But what shines through all that supervisory energy is pure love. She adores him. The way she leans close to kiss his forehead.
The way she studies his face like he’s the most important assignment she’s ever been given. The way she beams when he grips her finger.
She waited for him. And now she claims him.
Being a grandma to a six-year-old and a newborn at the same time is like living in two different worlds.
With Vivian, it’s conversations. Stories from school. Playground politics. Promises I must
absolutely keep because she remembers everything.
With Bennett, it’s quiet. Rocking. That sweet newborn weight against my chest. The gift of holding him without the pressure of being the one awake at 2 a.m.
And in the middle of it all are Sean and Carly, navigating life as parents of two. Watching Sean step into fatherhood again, this time with more confidence and calm, feels like a circle closing and opening all at once. And Carly, steady and wonderfully chill, makes motherhood look grounded and grace-filled, even when I know the days are long.
I didn’t apply for this job. I didn’t know the qualifications.
But apparently, loving fiercely, showing up consistently, and accepting correction from a sixyear-old are part of the requirements. And that feels like the sweetest job I never applied for. And I am more than willing to serve.
Southwest Iowa Happenings | Feb. 24 – March 27
By LIZ SKILLERN lizskillern2@gmail.com
Late February may still feel like winter, but Southwest Iowa’s communities are in full swing. From pancake suppers and benefit tournaments to library programs and local celebrations, the coming week offers plenty of opportunities to gather, give back, and connect with neighbors.
BEDFORD
Feb. 27 – Winter Festival
New Life Missionary Church, 301 Pollack Blvd. #1187, 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Bedford Community School, 305 Main St. 5:00 - 7:30 p.m.
CLARINDA
March 2 – Read Across America Celebration
Eiler Place Senior Living
920 W Garfield
6:30-7:30 pm
Lied Public Library will celebrate Read Across America Day and Dr. Seuss’ birthday with a special intergenerational program featuring snacks, crafts, games, and a fun photo backdrop. Families are invited to join the celebration. Info: 712-5422416
FARRAGUT
Feb. 28 – Butt Family Cornhole Benefit
The Waterfalls Event Center | 907 Hartford Ave. | 11 a.m
Support the Butt family as they rebuild after a house fire. $60 per team, double elimination tournament with payouts for 1st–5th place. Raffle prizes, silent auction, 50/50 drawing, music, food, and drinks. All proceeds support the family’s housing and essential needs.
RED OAK
Deadline March 1 –
MCYMCA Youth Soccer Registration
Montgomery County Family YMCA Soccer program for ages 5–7. Practices Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:15–6:15 p.m. at Kelly Park Soccer Field.
Members: $25
Nonmembers: $45
Jersey: $15 Info: 712-623-2161
www.mcymca.com
March 3 – FFA Alumni Supper & Auction Gold Fair Building | 1809 N. 4th
Meal 5–7 p.m.
Auctions begin at 5 p.m.
Pork chop dinner with live and silent auctions supporting FFA programs.
March 9 – Pizza Ranch Community Impact Night 1511 N. Broadway 5–7:30 p.m.
A portion of sales benefits Christ’s Cupboard Community Food Pantry.
March 13 – Retirement & CEO Welcome Celebration
Wilson Performing Arts Center, 300 Commerce Drive, 5–8 p.m.
Celebrate the retirement of Ron Kloewer and welcome new CEO Mike O’Neal at an evening hosted by Montgomery County Memorial Hospital & Clinics. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, live music, and local art.
March 14 – After Prom Fundraiser
Bowling Tournament at Red Oak Lanes
11 a.m.–1 p.m. or 1–3 p.m.
$120 per team of four. Includes Fareway meat raffle.
Contact: Cassie Woods, 712-621-2339
March 14 – Soup & Pie
Supper (Pi Day!)
First Christian Church 1909 E. Summit | 5 p.m.
SCIA encourages area seniors to apply for Agriculture Future of America Scholarship
The Shenandoah Chamber & Industry Association (SCIA) Ag Committee is encouraging graduating seniors from Shenandoah, Essex, and Sidney high schools to apply for the Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Scholarship.
The AFA Scholarship supports students who plan to pursue degrees in agriculture or food-related fields. Through its partnership with AFA, the SCIA Ag Committee helps provide a $3,200 scholarship to selected area students.
In addition to financial support, recipients gain access to AFA’s nationally recognized leadership development programs and industry networking opportunities.
“Agriculture is a cornerstone of our community,” Michelle Morelock, SCIA marketing director emphasized. “The Shenandoah Chamber & Industry Association Ag Committee is proud to support students who are pursuing careers that will strengthen rural communities and the agricultural industry for years to come.”
Students may apply online at www.agfuture.org. The application deadline is March 5. For more information, contact the Shenandoah Chamber & Industry Association at 712-246-3455.
Feb. 25 – Room at the
Chili, potato soup, pies, cinnamon rolls, and desserts. Freewill offering. Dine-in or carry-out available.
March 17 – 8th Annual
Ag Appreciation Dinner
White Fair Building, Montgomery County Fairgrounds
6 p.m. social 6:30 p.m. dinner
Free event honoring area agriculture producers and businesses. Featured speaker: Jeremy Nunes. RSVP by March 13 at www.chamberredoakiowa. org or 712-623-4821.
Register now - The Day the Crayons Quit Summer Theatre Camp
July 6–10 at the Wilson Performing Arts Center
Ages 6–12 will write the script, design costumes and props, and perform on stage. 9 a.m.–3 p.m., with Friday performance at 5 p.m.
$150 by March 1
$175 after Info:
www.wilsonartscenter.org 712-623-3183
SHENANDOAH
Feb. 24 – Ribbon
Cutting & Anniversary Celebration 1101 W Sheridan 3–5 p.m.
Join the Shenandoah Chamber & Industry Association in celebrating Blaines Service, LLC’s 20th year in business and the one-year anniversary of their new Shenandoah location. Stop by for coffee, snacks, and a chance to connect with the owners and staff.
Table Community Meal
First Presbyterian Church | 200 W. Clarinda Ave. 5:30–7 p.m.
Free monthly meal and program featuring guest speaker Sherri Bowen of Volunteer Iowa. All are welcome.
Feb. 28 – Sip n’ Paint Elks Lodge 709 S. Fremont St. 7 p.m.
Guided painting session. $20 includes supplies and take-home canvas. Register in advance at 712246-5110.
March 4 – Crafts with Carole: Great Potato Race Prep 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Shenandoah Public Library 201 S Elm
Decorate and “bling” potatoes in preparation for race day on March 11, 2–3:30
March 6–8 – SHS
Musical: The SpongeBob Musical Gladys Wirsig-Jones
Leadership Clarinda to launch Community Leadership Program
A new community leadership development initiative, Leadership Clarinda, will launch its inaugural class in September 2026. Designed to cultivate and empower emerging leaders, the nine-month program will run from September 2026 through May 2027, meeting on the third Thursday of each month from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Leadership Clarinda is a community-driven initiative dedicated to investing in Clarinda’s future by providing participants with meaningful learning experiences, valuable connections, and practical leadership opportunities. The program is currently accepting applications to form a cohort of 12–15 emerging leaders from diverse industries and backgrounds. Through intentional engagement and collaboration, Leadership Clarinda seeks to strengthen civic involvement, sharpen professional skills, and cultivate a dynamic network of leaders committed to the long-term success of the community.
Each monthly session will explore key sectors that shape the community, including healthcare, recreation, government, education, nonprofit organizations, industry, agriculture, finance and more. Through site visits, panel discussions and interactive learning experiences, participants will
gain a deeper understanding of local systems, challenges and opportunities while building lasting professional relationships.
“I am both excited and proud to serve on the planning committee for the inaugural Leadership Clarinda program,” said Chad Wellhausen of Wellhausen Real Estate and Consulting. “Leadership Clarinda will serve as a catalyst for growing leaders in a variety of capacities in our community. In return, this investment will strengthen our industries, small businesses and nonprofit organizations.”
Wellhausen, along with Austin Gutknecht, Mike Anderson, Kerry Clark, Elaine Farwell, Andrew Hoppmann, and Beckie T. Finch, serves on the Leadership Clarinda Planning Team, a subcommittee of Clarinda’s Vision35 community-wide planning process held in 2024.
The Leadership Clarinda Planning Team operates with a shared commitment to investing in people and strengthening the community, believing that stronger leaders help build a stronger Clarinda. Community members interested in participating in or supporting the program are encouraged to visit www. clarindafoundation.com/ leadership for additional information, updates and application materials.
LEADERS OF LEADERS
Members of the Leadership Clarinda Planning Committee. Austin Gutknecht, Mike Anderson, Chad Wellhausen, Kerry Clark, Elaine Farwell, Andrew Hoppmann, and
a new nine-month leadership development program designed to prepare
influence and decision-making. The program will meet monthly from September 2026 through May 2027 as part of the Vision35 initiative.
Auditorium
1000 Mustang Drive
March 6 & 7 at 7 p.m.
March 8 at 2 p.m.
March 13 & March 27 –
Lenten Fish Supper
Emmanuel Lutheran Church
406 E. Pioneer Ave.
5–7 p.m.
Pollock fillets (fried & baked), baked beans, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, potato salad, cornbread, desserts, and drinks. Freewill offering.
March 20 – Spring Tea
Shenandoah Public
Library 201 S Elm St. 4–5 p.m.
Community members are invited to the library for an afternoon Spring Tea featuring tea, light refreshments, and good company. Enjoy
relaxed conversation and fellowship in a welcoming setting. Adult (19+) event. SWITG Youth Summer Camp – Registration Open
Two age groups with family discounts and scholarships available. Details available on Facebook or by contacting the SWITG board treasurer at 712-246-8414.
STANTON
Feb. 25 – Native American Appreciation Program
Stanton Public Library
501 Elliott St. 5 p.m.
Deb Karwal presents an interactive look at what life was like for Native Americans 500–1,000 years ago in Iowa. Refreshments served. Have an upcoming event to share? Send the details to lizskillern2@gmail.com and help keep Southwest Iowa connected.
Tree Trimming • Removal • Stump Grinding
Insured • Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates Red Oak 712-623-8118 Clarinda 712-542-8111
Serving all of Southwest Iowa
APARTMENT FOR RENT
One bedroom apartment for ages 55 and older and/or disabled. Utilities paid, small pets allowed.
Autumn Park Apartments
201 N. Blossom St., Shenandoah, IA Phone 712-246-4898
Mar. 3, 5, 19
Mar. 11, 25
Mar. 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30
Mar. 4, 11, 25
Mar. 24, 30
Mar. 25
Mar. 3, 5, 10, 12, 19, 24, 26
Mar. 2, 3, 5, 9, 10,12, 16, 17, 19, 24, 26, 30
Mar. 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
Mar. 23
Mar. 6, 13, 27
Mar. 18
Mar. 13, 27
Mar. 6, 10, 20, 24
Mar. 16
Mar. 12, 26
Students in Julie Streitenberger’s Clarinda Community Schools preschool class display their Valentine cupcakes during a recent visit from the Clarinda Kiwanis Club. As part of the Clarinda Adopt-A-Class program, a partnership between Clarinda Public Schools, Clarinda Lutheran School and Clarinda Chamber member businesses, Kiwanis members Adam Lawrence, Elaine Farwell and Sydney Marckmann helped students decorate cupcakes and create a “hug” craft featuring their handprints.
AUTOMOBILES
2001 Mustang GT Convertible, no rust or dents, clean body, after market wheels and tires, good condition, no engine or transmission, $1,000 or best offer. Parts car. Located in Shambaugh, 602-399-4143
2015 KIA SOUL, 104K miles, gas saver, $6,400, 712-789-2026
2008 Ford Coachman RV, runs good, everything works, $10,000, 712-314-1609
1990 Chevy 2500 4WD, long bed, rough, but solid engine, transmission and tires, 712-246-5016
Car cover for a 2021 Toyota Avalon, half price, never used, 712-246-9999
For Sale in Shenandoah, IA: Turn-key upscale ladies consignment shop. In business nearly two years with currently 200 +/- consignees. Selling due to owner's ongoing health problems. $45,000. Contact Jackie Travis @ 712-2159027 or 712-581-9071
ProForm electric fold-up treadmill, L18, wide deck, $100, 712-246-9999.
4 Brand New Trash Barrels with wheels, Rubber Neck, 32-gallon, never been used712-246-5440
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
Deadline for classifieds is Thursday at Noon for the following Tuesday's publication.
SHINING SMILES
Guests pause from the dance floor to
Dance floor magic highlights second annual Night to Shine in Shenandoah
By LIZ SKILLERN lizskillern2@gmail.com
Sparkle, music, and celebration filled St.
Mary’s Catholic Church in Shenandoah on Feb. 13 as Nishna Productions and St. Mary’s hosted the second annual Night to Shine in Page County.
The event, part of the nationwide prom experience for individuals with special needs, once again transformed the evening into one centered on joy, dignity, and community connection. For Tiffany Doyle, cochair of the planning committee, one moment continues to define what
the evening is truly about.
“I know I mentioned it last year, but I think the moment in the evening that just captures what this is all about is when everybody hits the dance floor,” Doyle said. “At that time there’s no difference between the volunteers, students, the honored guests, or the staff.
It’s just a big group of people who came out for the night to have the best time smiling, singing, and dancing.”
This year’s Hollywood theme brought added glamour to the celebration, with decorations and details designed to give the evening glamour and style. “We did have a new theme -
SHINING MOMENTS
A Night to Shine guest shares a special moment with a volunteer during the celebration hosted by Nishna Productions and St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
Hollywood, and it was very glitz and glam,” Doyle said.
“I think it really elevated and added sophistication to the event this year. The evening itself was very similar to last year, and as a whole was just another successful, fun evening. It was great to see so many familiar faces from the previous year, but I also really enjoyed seeing new faces join us.”
Beyond the decorations and dancing, organizers say the heart of Night to Shine lies in how guests and families feel from the moment they arrive. “We truly want the guests to feel valued and equal and honored,” Doyle said. “We want them to know that this evening is for them
because they are amazing people who deserve to be pampered and treated like royalty for the evening. We hope that we are able to create lasting memories for our guests and families and an excitement to join us year after year.”
Planning for the event is intentional and ongoing. Doyle noted the committee spends significant time evaluating the evening and working to make improvements. “We are very open to feedback and suggestions from our volunteers, our honored guests and whoever joins them for the evening,” she said. “We want to make sure we continue to make this an exciting event.”
A NIGHT TO REIGN
An honored guest beams after being crowned during Shenandoah’s second annual Night to Shine at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Each guest was celebrated as royalty during the Hollywood-themed evening.
PHOTO PROVIDED
PHOTO PROVIDED
PHOTO PROVIDED
flash smiles during the Hollywood-themed Night to Shine celebration in Shenandoah.
PHOTO PROVIDED
RED CARPET TREATMENT
Honored guests make their way down the red carpet during Night to Shine in Shenandoah, greeted with cheers and applause from volunteers and supporters.
