Area Briefs from October 1
Published 4:44 pm Tuesday, September 29, 2026
October 1
KEYES for Dementia Prevention
Burgess Health Center will be hosting their KEYES for Dementia Prevention class at the Fisher Whiting Memorial Library beginning Thursday, Oct. 1, and continuing through Nov 19. The class will be held every Thursday at 1 p.m., except Oct. 8. There is a cost and registration is required. To register, call 712-423-9175.
October 2-3
Mapleton Class of 1961 Reunion
The Mapleton High School Class of 1961 will hold a Reunion on October 2-3 in Mapleton. It’s time to relive the memories, reconnect with old friends and rejoice in the journey since their school days. On Friday, October 2 – Meet at Barb’s House. On Saturday, October 3 – Tour of the museum and school then go to dinner as a group at the Hawkeye Bar at 12:30 p.m. RSVP to Barb Castle or Kathleen Loomis.
October 3
Spooking at the Pits
Join Monona County Conservation Board at Peter’s Park (Rodney Pits) 1 mile southeast of Rodney, for their annual Halloween celebration. Spooking at the Pits is free to all participants, (campers will still need to pay to register their sites). Follow their Facebook page for more info and updates. Schedule of Events:
4-6:30 p.m. – Free Hayrack Rides and Bouncy Houses
5 p.m. and 7 p.m. – Campsite Decorating Contest Judging, awards given after 7 p.m.
5:45 p.m. – Costume Contest – Contestants meet at the concessions building: Youth Age Groups: 0-5, 6-10, 11-15, 15-18 (Best Boy and Girl winners in each age group); Adult Categories: Best Male, Best Female, Best Pair (2), Best Group (2+)
6:30-7:30 p.m. – Trick or Treating – Campground roads will be closed during this portion of the event for safety, please plan accordingly
For more information, call (712) 433-2400 or email mccbnat@mononacountyiowa.gov
for any program questions.
October 4
Life Chain in Mapleton
October is known as Respect Life Month. Every October, we consider more deeply why every human life is valuable and reflect on how to build a culture that protects life from conception to natural death. Here is opportunity to participate: Life Chain in Mapleton on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 2-3 pm at the 4-way stop in Mapleton to stand for life. Signs and materials will be provided or feel free to make & bring your own sign. Fellowship to follow. Questions call: Sharyl @ 880-7749 or Bryan Flanigan 251-2478.
October 5. 7, 9
Matter of Balance
At the Mapleton Community Center an exercise class on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, for anyone 60 years young and up. Called “A Matter of Balance” this class will help reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels of older adults who have concerns about falling. This free class which lasts an hour will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11 a.m.
October 6
Storytime for Preschool
Preschool Storytime hours have changed at the Fisher Whiting Memorial Library in Mapleton. Story time starts at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays. Bring your little one (ages 0 to 5) for play, craft and stories.
After-School Program
The Fisher Whiting Memorial Library’s after-school program will be held every Tuesday throughout the school year. The program is open to children in kindergarten through 5th grade and will run from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m., directly after school. Each week will include snacks, crafts, activities and prizes.
October 8
Author Joseph LeValley
The Fisher Whiting Memorial Library are excited to welcome author Joseph LeValley back to the library on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 1 p.m. Joseph will be speaking about his books and his writing. If you haven’t had a chance to read his books, stop by the library and check one out! All of Joseph LeValley’s books are available for checkout at Library.
Bingo at Cord Memorial Library
Come and play Bingo at Cord Memorial Library in Danbury, the second Thursday of each month at 1:30, beginning in October. Bring a non-perishable item for each game. Everyone is a winner!
October 10
Giraffe Day at the Mapleton Library
Get ready for a day all about giraffes! The Fisher Whiting Memorial Library will be hosting Giraffe Day on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m.-Noon. At 10 a.m., the World Giraffe Alliance will be returning to the library with a special children’s giraffe program. This will be a fun and educational opportunity for kids to learn more about these amazing animals.
October 15
Iowa Storm Chasers
Have you ever wondered what it is like to chase a storm? Come to the Fisher Whiting Memorial Library on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 5:30 p.m. when the Iowa Storm Chasers visit the library for an exciting and informative program. Come learn more about severe weather, storm chasing, and what it takes to follow some of Iowa’s most powerful storms. Refreshments will also be served, so bring the family and enjoy an evening at the library.
September 25-November 9
Celebrate the Hills Art Show
The Moorhead Cultural Center will be hosting Celebrate the Hills Art Show from Sept. 25 until November 9. The Cultural Center is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 p.m. The Hills, Art & More will run during the Celebrate the Hills exhibit on Oct. 10-11.
