Spirit Lake residents raise funds to honor slain toddler

Residents in Spirit Lake will hold a fundraiser tonight to raise money for a playground that’ll be constructed in memory of Shelby Duis, the toddler whose January death has sparked a statewide debate about child abuse. Alex Den Herder, is spearheading the fundraising campaign for the Iowa Great Lakes Rotary Club. She says it’s a 30-thousand dollar project they plan to build at the Eleanor Beddell State Park.Governor Vilsack will speak at tonight’s fundraiser. Den Herder says Vilsack’s presence will help the community’s healing process.The fundraiser includes a dance and an auction. It’ll be held at the Arnold’s Park Majestic Pavilion. Doors open at six p.m.