A ceramic exhibit from Storm Lake artist Ron Netten is coming to Arts on Grand this week. The opening reception for Netten’s exhibit will be held at the gallery Thursday from 4-6 p.m.

“His works are well known in the Midwest, including in Spencer,” said Christina Muggenberg, gallery manager at Arts on Grand.

The Summer Reading Program at the Spencer Public Library is still going strong and has a new activity for families to participate in. Two language learning classes for adults with babies or toddlers will be offered at the library on July 11 and 18 at 6 p.m.

A new program at the Spencer Public Library — Shut Up and Write — was introduced last month. The library’s writing program will continue this month on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m.

The Shut Up and Write program, adult librarian Robin Munson said, is something all ages may come and take part in.

Clay County Tourism, in collaboration with the Spencer Reporter, announced the release of the 2023-24 Experience Clay County Visitors Guide. This comprehensive guidebook serves as a gateway to the diverse attractions, hidden gems and unique experiences offered by each community within Clay County. Packed with invaluable information, the 36-page guide aims to provide visitors with an unforgettable journey through the heart of Iowa.

Spencer Community Theatre is embracing comedy and horror with its teen production this summer. Partnered with Deegan Children’s Theatre, theatregoers will be treated to the sci-fi musical “Little Shop of Horrors.” Performances will be at the SCT Playhouse on July 6-8 at 7:30 p.m. and July 9 at 2 p.m.

For the first time since being reelected to office, Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand visited Spencer and spoke with community members as part of his 100 town hall tour.

Sand emphasized the importance of checks and balances during the event, speaking to a crowd of about 15 locals at Sunset Park.

A new study has revealed the most commonly reported crimes in different states across the US. The five most commonly reported crimes in Iowa include simple assault, property destruction, drug and narcotics violations, larceny and drug equipment violations.

The Spencer Public Library is carrying on its “Find Your Voice” Summer Reading theme with its upcoming showing of a film about disability. The library will be showing the documentary “Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution” with a discussion afterward on Monday from 5-8 p.m.

DES MOINES — The Iowa Utilities Board issued an order establishing the procedural schedule and setting the date for a public hearing regarding the proposed five-year energy efficiency plan by Black Hills Energy Company.

The hearing, for the presentation of evidence and cross-examination of witnesses, will be held at 9 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 25, in the IUB’s Hearing Room at 1375 E Court Ave. in Des Moines. A comprehensive procedural schedule is attached to today’s order.

To celebrate the Fourth of July, a fireworks display was launched out by the Clay County Fairgrounds on Wednesday night by the Spencer Fireworks Committee. Hosted by the Spencer Chamber of Commerce, the event was rescheduled from Tuesday due to rainfall. (Photos by Celia Brocker)

The Clay County Fair Association is currently seeking candidates for the board of directors, as well as interested individuals to become members of the association.

The Spencer baseball team has finished its regular season. The boys defeated Humboldt for their 20th win of the season, but lost to Sergeant Bluff-Luton on Monday. The loss snapped an eight-game winning streak for Spencer. Now the Tigers will officially begin their postseason journey Friday, hosting the Spirit Lake Indians at Andy McGaffin Field at 7 p.m. Tickets for the game must be purchased online at https://www.iahsaa.org/tickets/.

OKOBOJI — This musical comedy, written by Neil Simon and with music by Burt Bacharach and lyrics by Hal David, runs from Tuesday through Sunday, July 16, at the Okoboji Summer Theatre.

Fool House, a '90s pop-rock band, is inviting people of all ages for an “ultimate dance party” at the Roof Garden Ballroom on Friday, July 14. The band will be making its second appearance at the Lakes corridor after a drawing in hundreds at its February concert.

“Arnold’s Park was excellent,” lead singer Gary Hochstette said. “The response was great and (we were) very well received. We wanted to return to the area because the show was such a success.”

Saul Christensen, of the Iowa Homeschool Association, son of Tim and Susan Christensen of Royal, will be attending Iowa Lakes Community College in the fall.

Elizabeth Findling, of Spencer High School, daughter of Jennifer Findling of Royal, was the 2022 Pork Ambassador and will be attending Ellsworth Community College in the fall.