Remsen St. Mary’s hosts annual Ball with “Mystery at the Speakeasy” theme
Last Saturday, Remsen St. Mary’s Schools held their 35th annual Friends of St. Mary’s Ball at the Avalon Ballroom in Remsen. Speaking to KLEM, Remsen St. Mary’s director of school advancement Shannon Ceccoli explained why the theme “Mystery at the Speakeasy” was chosen.
In addition to the mystery, a social hour, dinner, and a silent auction was held, along with live entertainment from country music artist Tyler Anthony. A total of $74,367 was raised, which Ceccoli says will go towards smartboards in the new building addition.
Ceccoli says the Ball is one of the most meaningful yearly events in the community.
The 2027 edition of the Friends of St. Mary’s Ball is set for April 3rd of next year.
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Orange City Tulip Queen visits Iowa House
The Iowa House began work Monday in Des Moines with the Orange City Tulip Queen speaking, introducing her court, and dancing in the Well. Representative Tom Jeneary of Le Mars introduced them to the House.
The Queen and her court were in traditional Dutch attire, and Queen Truesdale explained its history.
Truesdale also invited the lawmakers to this year’s festival.
This will be the 85th year of the Orange City festival celebrating their Dutch heritage, with the festival itself taking place from May 14th-16th.
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Inclusive Connections to host “Burnout is Real” professional development session
Inclusive Connections, LLC will host “Burnout is Real,” a professional development session for educators that will take place next Friday, April 24th at the Le Mars Public Library.
According to the National Education Association, nearly 75% of educators reported experiencing burnout in 2025. Inclusive Connections says next Friday’s session is designed for educators to “recognize the signs of burnout, understanding its impact on personal well-being and student outcomes, and developing sustainable self-care practices.” Attendees will also learn “practical tool and strategies to maintain balance, build resilience, and foster a healthier school culture.”
Those interested can register now on Inclusive Connections’ Facebook page for $30 per person. For questions, contact Dr. Andrea Loutsch at inclusiveconnectionsllc@gmail.com. “Burnout is Real” will take place on Friday, April 24th from noon until 3:30pm at the Le Mars Public Library.
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