Christopher Duane Vanbeek, age 61, of Windom, MN was arrested on the charge of operating while under the influence — first offense — at approximately 10:24 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15 near Broadway Street in Arnolds Park.

Try an audiobook to help pass the time while driving over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house! The friendly staff at the Spirit Lake Public Library would be happy to help you discover which type of audiobook works best for you because there are several to choose from.

Q: How can Iowans check their Social Security benefits online?

A bond referendum valued at around $69 million was recently passed for Okoboji Community School District. Voters decided on Nov. 5 to go through with the bond referendum, with 63-percent of voters showing support for the project.

The project includes the construction of a new elementary school, as well as general improvements, renovations and additions to the high school buildings.

Armistice Day, which later became known as Veterans Day, was put into motion just more than 106 years ago on Nov. 11, 1918 — on that day, the Allies and Germany signed a treaty to end the devastation that was World War I.

Four years later, in Dec. of 1922, a veteran of the next great war was born.

Ted Carpenter is a 101-year-old World War II veteran living in Milford — he's celebrating his 102nd birthday on Dec. 16.

A Spirit Lake man was arrested on one felony count of dominion/control of firearm/offensive weapon by felon, as well as three serious misdemeanors, at approximately 7:50 p.m. April 14, 2023.

According to the criminal complaint, Maurice Xavier Bowens, age 35, was allegedly caught on video surveillance pushing the victim and punching the victim in the face. Bowens was also allegedly observed smashing the victim's iPhone 11 on the ground.

A Spirit Lake man was arrested on multiple charges, including multiple felony charges, following several incidents Tuesday, Nov. 5 in Milford.

According to the criminal complaint, Steven Andrew Wynhoff, age 28, was arrested on two charges of theft, one charge of burglary, two counts of failure to maintain control, failure to provide proof of insurance, operating a non-registered vehicle and driving while barred.

Spirit Lake School District held a Veterans Day ceremony at the SAMI Center Monday morning. Terry Bruinsma, principal at the middle school, said that the program was a chance to show respect, appreciation and gratitude for local veterans.

"Let's begin our program with an open heart and an open mind," Bruinsma said. "And let's reflect on the sacrifices our veterans made."

Brody Van’t Hul, of Rock Valley, was recently awarded the Launch Scholarship from Mau Marine. Brody, an ambitious student currently enrolled in Iowa Lakes Community College's Marine Technology program, stands out for his natural mechanical aptitude, strong work ethic, growth mindset, and enthusiasm for boating. These qualities align him with Mau Marine's dedication to fostering young talent in the boating industry.

Lakes Area Dementia and Caregiver Cafe approaching

The November Lakes Area Dementia and Caregiver Cafe will be from 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19. The First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake is the location. Entertainment will be provided by Terry Klein, with song and sing along. Refreshments will be served at this free event. Pre-registration is appreciated by not required. Call 712-336-1649 for more information.

Residents of Okoboji and Arnolds Park are finally free from construction as of Nov. 1, thanks to the completion of the four-phased Highway 71 reconstruction project.

Officials with the DOT previously said the concrete used to pave the highway some 20 years ago required regular patching about eight years after it was poured. Officials suspect there may have been a chemical issue with the concrete at that time.

Join Milford Memorial Library for our weekly Building Bookworms Storytime at 10:30 a.m. Mondays. Take a look below for our themes. All materials and services are provided by the library free to participants. All kids and their adults are welcome to stay after storytime and mingle. For more information contact the library or check out our Facebook page.

• 10:30 a.m. Nov. 18, Turkey Time

• 10:30 a.m. Nov. 25, Hats

• 10:30 a.m. Dec. 2, Safari

The Okoboji Foundation recently introduced the 2024-2025 Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) program participants.

This year, students from Okoboji, Spirit Lake and Harris-Lake Park High Schools will join the YIP program, dedicating their time to raising funds and learning about grant allocation to make a positive impact on the Lakes Area community.

Maurice Xavier Bowens, age 35, of Spirit Lake was arrested on charges of dominion/control of firearm/offensive weapon by felon, domestic abuse, theft and criminal mischief at approximately 7:50 p.m. Friday, April 14, 2023 in Spirit Lake. According to the criminal complaint, two 9mm handguns were located in Bowens's vehicle, one of them stolen. Bowens was also alleged to have pushed and struck the victim in the face, as well as smashing the victim's phone.

The topic of philosophy is one that can be rather intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! Take the opportunity to learn and study philosophy on World Philosophy Day, Thursday, Nov. 21.