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Blanchard • Braddyville • Clarinda • Coin • College Springs • Essex • Farragut • Imogene • Northboro • Shambaugh • Shenandoah • Yorktown
The Page County Post
VOL. 1 NO. 40 • 712-438-7438 • phil@pagecountypost.com • P.O. Box 122, Clarinda, Iowa, 51632 • Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Monday, Dec. 15th thru Sunday, Dec. 21st Clarinda: 1200 S. 16th Street | Shenandoah: 500 S. Fremont Street | Red Oak: 1605 N. Broadway Street
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The Page County Post
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Tuesday, December 16, 2025
SW Iowa Happenings: Dec. 17 – Dec. 24 Clarinda square. A relaxed, Drop-off: Essex City come-and-go event perfect Hall, 412 Iowa Ave. Support for families looking to enjoy a great local cause by donating essential supplies The holiday season is a little holiday magic. for People For Paws. Items bustling across Southwest ESSEX needed include pet food, Iowa, bringing with it a Holiday Decorating litter, cleaning supplies, full slate of celebrations, Contest and laundry detergent. Each community drives, and Judging: contribution helps provide festive family activities. Wednesday, Dec. 17 comfort, nourishment, From decorating contests Essex is once again and care for area animals and Christmas drives to their forever free movies, live nativity gearing up for its annual awaiting experiences, and educational holiday lighting competition. homes. programs, local communities Residents are invited to RED OAK are offering something for deck the halls and their Red Oak Police everyone as the year winds homes with their best lights, inflatables, and seasonal Department Toys for Tots to a close. décor. Judges will travel Donations will be through town on Dec. 17, accepted through Dec. 17. CLARINDA Fareway, 811 N. Visit Santa’s Open House and all households within city limits are automatically Broadway Saturday, Dec. 20 entered. The Red Oak Police 10–11:30 a.m. Department is now accepting Southwest corner Essex Community new, unwrapped toys for of the square Club: People For Paws children ages 0–14, as well Children can visit Christmas Drive as monetary donations, as with Santa, share their Donations accepted part of its 10th Annual Toys Christmas wishes, and take a photo while enjoying through December | 9 a.m.– for Tots program. Children may be signed up to receive the beautifully decorated 4 p.m., Mon–Fri toys on Dec. 4 from 3:30– 5:30 p.m. at Fareway with a Dec. 5 deadline. Help make this holiday season even more special for local families. For more information, contact the Red Turn-key upscale ladies consignment shop. Oak Police Department at In business nearly two years 712-623-6500. with currently 200 +/- consignees. BY LIZ SKILLERN
lizskillern2@gmail.com
FOR SALE
in Shenandoah, IA
Selling due to owner's ongoing health problems. $
45,000.
Contact Jackie Travis @ 712-215-9027 or 712-581-9071
Violet Williams' 90th Birthday December 23rd
PHIL and CHAUNDEE COBB
The first issue of the Page County Post was published on Feb. 28 of this year, so it's not quite an anniversary, but we are staring at the end of our first calendar year fast approaching. My plan a month ago was to write a Thanksgiving column to recognize some of the folks who have made this publication possible,
Classifieds AUTOMOBILES 1990 Chevy 2500 4WD, long bed, rough, but solid engine, transmission and tires, 712-246-5016
low miles, clean car, $4,250, 712-789-2026
FOR RENT OR SALE Crystal Glassware and 2014 Jeep Patriot, silver, dishes, rent or buy, 402-5474x4, 150k miles, $4,300, 3712. runs great! 712-789-2026 FOR SALE 2011 RAM 1500 Hemi, SLT, Car cover for a 2021 Toyota with topper, 92,000 miles, FOR HIRE Avalon, half price, never 218-639-0686 Lady will clean, cook, used, 712-246-9999 2011 Nissan Juke, blue, house-sit, people or animal care, 402-547-3712 For Sale in Shenandoah, IA: Turn-key upscale ladies consignment shop. In business nearly two One bedroom apartment for ages years with currently 200 +/- consignees. Selling due 55 and older and/or disabled. to owner's ongoing health Utilities paid, small pets allowed. problems. $45,000. Contact Jackie Travis @ 712-2159027 or 712-581-9071
APARTMENT FOR RENT
Autumn Park Apartments 201 N. Blossom St., Shenandoah, IA Phone 712-246-4898
Angels Care Home Health: Anxiety & Depression Presentation Monday, Dec. 22 4–5 p.m. 717 W Sheridan Ave. Tonda with Angels Care will discuss strategies for managing seasonal anxiety and depression, common challenges during the winter months. Available both in person and via Facebook Live for community convenience. STANTON Josiah Bushnell Grinnell & the Iowa Underground Railroad Wednesday, Dec. 17 4–5 p.m. Stanton Public Library, 501 Elliott St. Historian Delüd Connon shares the compelling story of JB Grinnell, social reformer, abolitionist, and namesake of Grinnell, Iowa, and his role in the Underground Railroad. This free program offers a fascinating look at Iowa’s history of courage, justice, and the fight for freedom.
Dec. 23rd issue will wrap up first year of PC Post
Help us celebrate!
Cards can be sent c/o Azria Health Center 600 Manor Drive Clarinda, IA 51632
Fill the Truck & Fuel the fun, festive way to start the Community Food Drive weekend and celebrate the Dec. 1–19 season together. TNT Ford, 2027 U.S. Highway 34 East Visit Santa Claus Share in the spirit of the Dec. 20 | 12–2 p.m. season by donating nonShenandoah Historical perishable food items to help Society Museum, 800 W provide meals and groceries Sheridan Ave. for local families in need. Children can meet Santa Claus inside the museum’s Montgomery County festive displays. Each child Memorial Hospital + receives a free gift, and Clinics Blood Drive families are welcome to take Monday, Dec. 22 photos. A perfect stop before 11 a.m.–5 p.m. or after local shopping. Give the gift of life this holiday season. Donors can Bethlehem Alive — contact Katie Sapp at 712A Walk-Through 623-6725 or katsap@mcmh. Nativity Experience org to reserve a time. WalkDec. 19–21 ins are welcome as space Fri & Sat: 7–8:30 p.m. allows. Sun: 2–3:30 p.m. Nishna Valley SHENANDOAH Christian Church Free Holiday Movie Event 415 N. Fremont St. Saturday, Dec. 20 Step back in time for an Doors open 9 a.m., immersive walk-through movie at 10 a.m. retelling of the Nativity. Legacy 3 Theatre Featuring live animals, 712 W. Sheridan Ave. actors, and a recreated Bring the family for a free Bethlehem marketplace, community showing of the the experience offers a holiday favorite Elf. Enjoy meaningful and familycomplimentary holiday friendly way to celebrate the snack packs provided story of Christmas. by SCIA, with regular concessions available. A
Remote Control, Dance & Twirl Barbie, pictures available, 712-310-5808 NASCAR 50th Anniversary Barbie, photo available, 712-310-5808
Oak coffee end table with one drawer and glass top, asking $40, 712-215-5206 Ceramic lamp with floral design, shade included, $25, 712-215-5206 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
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
squeeze this in. I'm going to stop short of naming names because I don't want to forget someone or for anyone to feel left out, but there are some key See PHIL Page 5
CORRECTION Mondo's hours were incorrect in last week's Post In an advertisement that ran on the front page of the Page County Post on Dec. 9th, the hours for Mondo's Family Dining restaurant were published incorrectly. Mondo's, a popular Shenandoah eatery, located at 309 S. Fremont St. and owned and operated by Lucas Hughes, is actually open seven days a week. The Page County Post regrets the error. "I've received a ton of questions regarding this advertisement," Hughes said. "While it's always good to hear that people are responding to the advertisements of our clients, we hate it when we get something wrong." Post owner Phil Cobb said. "This was my mistake."
BRIEFS
Perfect Christmas Gift – Vintage Huffy Dr. Pepper Clarinda Dollars
Bike, boys 26-inch, 712Clarinda Dollars will once again be available for 246-5440 individuals and businesses to purchase as Christmas gifts or special employee bonuses. 4 metal lawn chairs, 712These gift certificates come in $5, $10, $15, $20, and 246-5440 $25 denominations and can be redeemed at more than 140 Clarinda Chamber member businesses. They make the Professional decorative perfect holiday gift while supporting our local community. silver wooden frame, 6 Clarinda Dollars are sold at face value with no handling inches wide. For 12X16 fee. picture. Hangs horizontally They may be purchased at the Chamber Office, located at or vertically. 712-202-6333 115 East Main Street.
Restored antique furniture ProForm electric fold-up and weather vanes, Clarinda, treadmill, L18, wide deck, 712-438-1940 Tree Trimming • Removal • Stump Grinding $100, 712-246-9999. Insured • Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates Disassembled complete set Red Oak 712-623-8118 Ping Golf Clubs: Irons, 3-9; of numbered piano keys. Clarinda 712-542-8111 Woods, Driver, 3, 4, 5, Call 712-202-6333 Serving all of Southwest Iowa 402-981-5830 PETS Purebred Great Dane puppies born Dec. 1. Still have 4 available. Both mom 322 E. Grant, Clarinda and dad are in the home. Bishop Troy Sawyers @ 712-471-2403 Have had genetic testing and 100% healthy. Puppies Schedule of Events will have age appropriate Dec. 21st following 11 a.m. service vaccinations and dew claws Stocking Stuffers removed. Taking deposits for All children present receive special requests – 531-999a stocking to fill with toys and candy. 0539 ask for Tiphany
Fresh Start Church
but we have had such an influx of great content from throughout the area, I felt it best to include it over my ramblings. Now that things are slowing down a bit, it gives me the perfect opportunity to
Collaboration underway to create new Essex facility
The City of Essex, Essex Community School District, Essex Community Club, and Essex Child Center are collaborating on a multi-functional facility that will include a daycare, after school resources, gymnasium, fitness center, and community center. The complex will be located on school property at a yet to be determined location. A committee has been formed and an architect hired. This facility will replace the renovation of the East Gym. "The collaboration between the city, school, ECC, and daycare to establish a multi-functional facility represents a powerful model for community development. By leveraging underutilized school space, we can address critical childcare shortages, support working families, and foster a stronger, more integrated community fabric,” said Tess Nelson, Essex Community Development Director. “This synergy not only provides essential services but also creates a hub Classified ads run until the for educational and social growth, demonstrating how item sells. Please notify us strategic partnerships can transform shared resources into comprehensive community assets." when the item sells.
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
The Page County Post
Holiday spirit shines bright across Page County BY LIZ SKILLERN
lizskillern2@gmail.com
Holiday magic filled the streets, schools, and hearts of Page County as communities celebrated the season in their own special way. Clarinda kicked off the season on Nov. 28 with its longtime tradition, the 33rd Annual Clarinda Lighted Christmas Parade, which once again drew large crowds and an impressive lineup of festive floats. “The 33rd Annual Clarinda Lighted Christmas Parade was a tremendous
success,” Chamber Executive Director Elaine Farwell said. “With more than 60 beautifully decorated floats and the traditional lighting of the canopy of lights, the event was made truly special thanks to our parade participants and the many volunteers who made the memorable evening possible.” Shenandoah made holiday history with its first-ever lighted parade, held in conjunction with the community favorite, The Night the Lights Come On. Originally scheduled for Nov. 29, the celebration was postponed one day due to
winter weather but still drew strong community support. “Although it didn’t go quite as planned due to the weather, overall it was a great event and a tradition we plan to continue along with Santa’s Workshop,” said Shenandoah Chamber and Industry Association Marketing Director Michelle Morelock. She added, “What an absolutely magical holiday weekend in Shenandoah! … Looking around our community this weekend was the sweetest See SPIRIT, Page 4
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BEST LIGHTS Best Display of Lights went to Nodaway Valley Christian Church of Braddyville for its beautifully illuminated nativity scene float during the 33rd Annual Clarinda Lighted Christmas Parade.
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The Page County Post
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
ESSEX FIRE
IT'S WHONANIMOUS
A Whoville-themed float, complete with the Grinch and Max the dog, brought smiles The Essex fire truck shined bright as it traveled through Shenandoah’s lighted parade, delighting nearly every child along the route. and holiday fun to parade spectators during Clarinda’s lighted parade.
LIGHTING UP THE NIGHT Josh O’Neil Design lit up the streets with a brightly decorated float during Shenandoah’s first-ever lighted Christmas parade.
SPIRIT
Shenandoah.” In Essex, the holiday spirit shined brightly inside FROM PAGE 3 the school walls as students reminder of how blessed we of all ages enjoyed seasonal are to live, work and play in
activities, from writing letters to Santa to hosting their own version of a Macy’s-style parade. Together, these
celebrations showcased what makes the holiday season extra meaningful in Page County—community, tradition, and heart.
To place your ad in the Page County Post just call Phil at 712-438-7438 or email: phil@pagecountypost.com
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Tuesday, December 16, 2025
The Page County Post
PHOTOS PROVIDED
WHEN SANTA'S AWAY Mrs. Claus delights a group of young visitors during Shenandoah’s annual holiday celebration, Breakfast with Mrs. Claus. The event held Dec. 6 was hosted by the Shenandoah Chamber and Industry Association. Thirtyfive children enjoyed donuts, fruit, and juice before creating reindeer hats, crafting ornaments and magnets, decorating cookies, and mixing up magical reindeer food for Santa’s team. The celebration also included festive games and storytime with Mrs. Claus herself. SCIA marketing director Michelle Morelock said the event was filled with laughter and holiday cheer thanks to Mrs. Claus, dedicated volunteers, and all the families who helped make the celebration a success.
PHIL
individuals from throughout the county who played pivotal roles in making this publication a possibility, and I just want to say to them, "Thank you! — you know who you are." There's no way we could have anticipated the support we would receive from area businesses and the feedback we would receive from the readership. We have now had well more than 100 advertisers put their faith in the effectiveness of this publication, and from the reports I've been given, I think they have been pleased with the return on investment. We were confident there would be support from Clarinda, as I've been doing
business in that market for nearly a quarter century now, and some of the loudest voices of encouragement were from business owners in that community, but I barely knew anyone from Shenandoah. We have been welcomed into that community with equal enthusiasm, and honestly, without that support this would not be possible. On top of the support we have received from the business communities, the feedback from our readership is the fuel that feeds the engine. We never get tired of people telling us they enjoy getting the paper. Please continue to tell our advertisers the same thing. They need to know that their advertising messages are looked forward to and
acted upon. As 2026 fast approaches, we look forward to the new relationships that we hope to form with both new businesses and new readers. As always we love to hear from you about what you would like to see from us. This paper is as much yours as it is ours. As we've said before, we never anticipated this publication being anything more than a vehicle for advertising, but along the way, it has become a source of information of all kinds. We are very much looking forward to the evolution of this publication in years to come. We want it to be what you want it to be, so please let us know. Call me at 712-438-7438 or email Liz Skillern at lizskillern2@gmail.com.
123 S. 20th St. Clarinda, IA $ 86,000 4 Bed | 2 Bath Lot Size: 60x120
1614 410th Ave. Shenandoah, IA $ 320,000 4 Bed | 2 Bath 2.61 Acres
102 E. Valley St. Shenandoah, IA $ 129,500 3 Bed | 1 Bath Lot Size: 60x115
FROM PAGE 2
2607 US HWY 59 Shenandoah, IA $ 319,000 3 Bed | 2 Bath 2.22 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
To place your ad in the Page County Post just call Phil: 712-438-7438 or email: phil@pagecountypost.com
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The Page County Post
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Bulletin Board
Get your business card or flyer on the Bulletin Board!
712-438-7438
The Page County Post
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
McGinnis, Leece earn top school honors BY LIZ SKILLERN
lizskillern2@gmail.com
PHOTO BY LIZ SKILLERN
HONORED Teacher of the Year Todd McGinnis and Friend of Education honoree Sonia Leece were recognized during the Shenandoah Education Association’s American Education Week ceremony on Nov. 19.
During a ceremony held in the Shenandoah Middle School commons on Nov. 19, the Shenandoah Education Association announced its 2025 Teacher of the Year and Friend of Education Award recipients. Middle School Language Arts Teacher and Head High School Wrestling Coach Todd McGinnis was named this year’s Teacher of the Year. Co-hosts Jenny Stephens and Danielle Terry highlighted McGinnis’ 21 years of dedication to the district and the impact he has made on students. “Todd is not only an
exceptional teacher, but also a leader in our school community,” Stephens said. “He models integrity, dedication, and perseverance, and consistently encourages students to be their best in and out of the classroom.” A 1994 Shenandoah High School graduate, McGinnis spent four years teaching in Council Bluffs before returning to Shenandoah. He said he was honored to be selected by his peers. “I just feel like the teachers who have been recognized before me are excellent teachers,” he said. “I don’t really see myself at their level, but I try my best. I’m proud to be nominated.”
McGinnis added that his own teachers and coaches inspired his decision to pursue education. Also recognized Wednesday was Sonia Leece, who was named the 2025 Friend of Education. Leece, a Middle School At-Risk Interventionist, has served the district for more than 25 years. Her nomination praised her steady presence, compassion, and commitment to supporting students, families, and staff. “Sonia goes above and beyond in her role,” Stephens read. “She works tirelessly to help students succeed and is always willing to step in wherever she’s needed.”
A 1990 Shenandoah graduate and trained social worker, Leece said her role is a natural fit. “I like working with kids—they keep you young,” she said. “This job is right up my alley, and I love it.” Other Teacher of the Year nominees included Brenda Hargis, Kendria Johnson, Trisha Johnson, Grant Staats, Abby Weinrich, and Crystal Wittmer. Additional Friend of Education nominees were Natalie Denton, Mike Peterson and KMA, and Heather Weiss. This year marks the 53rd presentation of the Teacher of the Year award, a highlight of American Education Week.
QUILT OF VALOR PRESENTED
Andrew Graham of Clarinda
PHOTO PROVIDED
ELECTED The Essex Community Club held its annual meeting Thursday, Nov. 20 at the Essex Opera House. Eric Ackerberg was elected President; Kim Juarez was elected Vice President; and Chelsea Juarez was also elected to the board. Board terms are two years. Kirchert Electric was named the ECC Sponsor of the Year, while Kevin Naico was named Member of the Year. Pictured, from left, Ackerberg, Naico, Kim Juarez, and Brian Kirchert. Not pictured: Chelsey Juarez.
Andrew Graham of Clarinda was presented with a Quilt of Valor at his home on Nov. 25, by Linda Davis and Patti Rolf, in recognition of his military service and sacrifice. Graham served in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard/Reservists from 1987 to 1994, achieving the rank of E-4 and deploying during the Gulf War for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm with the 1168th Transport Unit of Red Oak. His honors include the Army Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, and the National Defense Service Medal. The quilt was machine-pieced by the Shenandoah American Legion Auxiliary Unit #88 and the Southwest Iowa Scrappy Quilters as part of the Quilt of Valor program, which honors and comforts veterans touched by war.
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Andrew Graham
8 The Page County Post
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Celebrating 75 Years serving southwest Iowa and northwest missouri!
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