Friday - September 23rd, 2022
Nishnabotna Valley REC members have been receiving scam calls. These calls are of a threatening nature, asking for immediate payment or service will be disconnected. Once again, these calls are a scam. If you have any questions about your account with REC, call their office at 712/755-2166.
House Fire in Earling -
At 7:05 Friday morning, the Harlan Fire Department was paged to assist the Earling Fire Department for a house fire at 304 3rd Street in Earling. Westphalia and Panama fire were also called. No other information is currently available.
Fatal motorcycle-tractor accident in Shelby County –
(9-23-22) The Iowa State Patrol reports a collision on Highway 59 just north of Avoca Thursday night, claimed the life of 33 year old Timothy Steve McFarland of Emerson. McFarland was northbound on Highway 59 on a 2011 Harley Davidson motorcycle at 8:19 last night when a 2005 International tractor pulled out from a farm drive at 325 Highway 59. When the tractor, driven by 49-year-old Robert Arkfeld, Jr., entered the highway in an attempt to turn south, McFarland was unable to stop. His motorcycle hit the front of the tractor, resulting in fatal injuries. McFarland died at the scene. Robert Arkfeld, Jr. was not injured. The accident remains under investigation by the Iowa State Patrol and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office
Harlan area MOPS ( a mom's group in Harlan) - is offering a child care night Friday, September 23rd to give parents the opportunity to have a date night. Children must be registered and you can sign up at eventbrite.com/e/parents-night-out-tickets or you can go to the facebook page Harlan Area MOPS.
This Friday, September 23, there are two ambassador visits scheduled in Harlan.
10:30 am. Ambassador Visit for Myrtue Medical Center’s new general surgeon, Dr. Leroy Hodges. This event will be held in the Atrium of the Specialty Clinic. Please enter through the Surgery/ Outpatient Specialty Clinic entrance on Chatburn Avenue.
11:30 am. Ambassador Visit for Conductix-Wampfler, 1605 Industrial Parkway, Harlan to celebrate their 30th anniversary of having a facility in Harlan. Staff will be providing tours of the facility during their open house 12 – 2 pm.
Tiny Lund Memorial Races Friday and Saturday in Harlan -
(9-21-22) - IT’S 2 BIG NIGHTS OF RACING – THIS FRIDAY AND SATURDAY DURING THE TINY LUND MEMORIAL RACES AT THE SHELBY COUNTY SPEEDWAY IN HARLAN. BOTH NIGHTS YOU CAN SEE LATE MODELS, STOCK CARS, SPORTS MODS, HOBBY STOCKS AND 305 SPRINT CARS. PLUS FRIDAY NIGHT THERE WILL BE COMPACTS AND DIRT TRUCKS AND SATURDAY NIGHT THERE’S MODIFIEDS AND WESTERN IOWA VINTAGE CARS TOO. PLUS THERE WILL BE A RACE CAR SHOW ON THE SQUARE FROM 10 TO NOON ON SATURDAY. DON’T MISS A MINUTE OF THE ACTION STARTING 7 PM FRIDAY AND 6 PM SATURDAY –
Celebrate Coca-Cola Days 2022 this weekend, in Atlantic -
(9-20-22) - (KJAN) - Coca-Cola Days will be held September 23rd and 24th in Atlantic. The event is the second largest collector’s show in the United States and includes a tailgate barbecue open to the public, a Show, Swap & Sell, and a Coca-Cola themed raffle. The theme for the 2022 Coca-Cola Days is “Best in Show”. The committee wanted to tie in a Fair theme due to the event taking place at the Cass County Fairgrounds this year.
Raffle items include: A Coca-Cola Cooler filled with Coca-Cola Product and Hy-Vee, Fareway, and BP gift cards worth $100 each. Tickets are available at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce for $5 a ticket or 5 tickets for 20. The winner will be announced Saturday, September 24th at 2 PM at the Show, Swap & Sell meet at the Cass County Fair Grounds. Tickets will also be available for purchase that day.
T-Shirts for the 2022 Coca-Cola Days Celebration are also available for purchase. The shirts are heather grey and feature the theme, “Best in Show”. T-Shirts can be purchased for $20 at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce or day-of at the Show, Swap & Sell Saturday, September 24th.
For more information on Coca-Cola Days or a full list of activities, please visit www.atlanticiowa.com, call the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at 712-243-3017 or email chamber@atlanticiowa.com.
Woodbine Applefest set for September 24th -
(9-16-22) – The last Saturday in September means its time for the festival that is everything apple in the City of Woodbine….It’s Woodbine Applefest! The city will host one of Iowa’s largest car shows, attracting over 350 makes and models. In addition to the car show, there will be a tractor display, a craft show, and an outdoor market, that covers several blocks throughout the town. There will also be live music, historical tours, a kids corner and more. New this year is the hay bale toss, open to all ages. A number of food vendors will be on hand, free entertainment with a live band and a beer garden. You can even take in a helicopter ride.
DNR Seeks Help In Parks On Statewide Volunteer Day -
(9-15-22) - The chief of Iowa’s Parks, Forests and Preserves Bureau is asking Iowans to mark Saturday, September 24th on their calendars to lend a hand with sprucing up our state parks. It’s the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ sixth annual Statewide Volunteer Day. Volunteer projects include putting together and painting picnic tables, picking up trash, removing invasive species, planting trees, and more. There are projects planned all across the state at about one in every four of Iowa’s state parks. To sign up, go to Iowa-dnr-dot-gov-forward-slash-volunteer.
Join your friends at the 7th Catholic Conference as World Class speakers inspire you September 24th and 25th. There are three ways to join in at christourlifeiowa.com. 1. Join them at the Des Moines Wells Fargo Arena live. 2. Come to Earling at St. Joseph Hall for live streaming, Eucharist, Confessions and Adoration. Meals are available and you can come and go. 3. Live stream where you are. If you have any questions, contact Karen Chamberlain at 579-8689.
The City of Exira’s Fall Festival is this weekend!, with many activities for participants to enjoy. The event is on Saturday, September 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Events are a vendor fair, pie baking and scarecrow contest, kid’s activities, and much more. For more information on the Fall Festival, individuals can visit the Exira Community Club on Facebook.
JOIN THE IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN KIMBALLTON THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25th FOR THEIR 9th ANNUAL BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER! FROM 9 AM TO NOON IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL, ENJOY AN EGGS, BACON, PANCAKES, SAUSAGE, BISCUITS AND GRAVY, ROLLS, MUFFINS, YOGURT AND FRUIT, AND A BEVERAGE FOR A FREE WILL OFFERING.. THE SUNDAY SCHOOL CHILDREN WILL ALSO BE HOSTING A BAKE SALE. THIS SUNDAY, ENJOY BREAKFAST AT THE IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN KIMBALLTON FROM 9 TO NOON THIS SUNDAY.
THE MINDEN AMERICAN LEGION POST 437 INVITE YOU TO JOIN THEM AT THE GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY’S DAY, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH AT THE MINDEN COMMUNITY HALL FROM 5 TO 8 PM. DINNER WILL BE SERVED AT 5:30 AND WILL FEATURE BROASTED CHICKEN AND PRIME SMOKED LOIN, POTATOES AND GRAVY, BUTTERED CORN, SALAD AND DESSERTS INCLUDING WOODBINE APPLEFEST PIE! ALL THIS FOR A FREE WILL DONATION. A PROGRAM WILL START AT 6:30 RECOGNIZING AND HONORING SURVIVING MOTHERS AND FAMILIES OF FALLEN SERVICE MEMBERS. IF YOU KNOW OF SOMEONE WHO DESERVES THIS AWARD CALL 483-2233 OR 402/680-2505. THE GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY’S DAY, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH AT THE MINDEN COMMUNIITY HALL FROM 5 TO 8 PM.
GriefShare Seminar/Support Group will be held 5:30 to 7:30 Monday, September 26th, at the First Baptist Church at 1325 Chatburn Avenue in Harlan. GriefShare is a special weekly seminar and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close them them For more information, call the church at 755-2711.
Harlan Income Survey -
(9-19-22) – There will be a local online, telephone and/or door-to-door survey of households in Harlan. The survey is necessary for the city to apply to the State for a Community Development Block Grant for sewer improvements needed by the city’s system. The survey will determine whether more than 51% of Harlan’s population is considered low to moderate income, which is required for the grant. Surveys can be picked up at Harlan City Hall, the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry or online. Please complete the survey by Friday, September 30th. If you have any questions, please contact Dani Briggs at SWIPCO at 243-4196.
Bench warrant issued for Anthony Rey Asay -
(9-23-22) – (KJAN) – On Monday, Cass County District Court Judge Greg Steensland issued a Bench Warrant for 30 year old Anthony Rey Asay. The warrant is for Failure to Appear for his September 19th Pre-Trial Conference. In Cass County, Asay faces a Class D Felony charge of Willful Injury Causing Serious Injury, and Serious Misdemeanor Charges of Assault causing bodily injury or mental illness and Possession of a Controlled Substance – 1st offense – marijuana associated with a stabbing incident that took place on May 5th in Atlantic. On August 29th, Asay’s Pre-Trial release was revoked and his cash-only bond was set at $5,000. His trial remains set for September 27th at 9:30 am in Cass County District Court. Asay, who was wearing an ankle tracking bracelet was arrested Aug. 11th in connection with a stabbing incident at a gas station in Blair, Nebraska while he was awaiting trial on the incident in Atlantic. The victim in the Nebraska incident was treated for an injury to his arm. Asay faces charges associated with the Nebraska incident that include: 3rd Degree Assault for punching the victim; 2nd Degree Assault for stabbing the victim; Use of a Weapon to Commit a Felony; Possession of a Deadly Weapon by Prohibited Person – for possessing the knife he used to stab the male after being convicted of multiple felonies prior to this incident; and Driving under Revocation.
Inman Elementary School Dean of Students arrested -
(9-23-22) – 30 year old Anthony Tyler Jones, the Dean of Students for Inman Elementary School in Red Oak, was arrested Monday night on a warrant out of Clarke County associated with an incident that happened in August of 2018. According to the Montgomery county Sheriff’s Office, Jones was arrested a little after 8:30 pm Monday on the warrant for 2nd degree criminal mischief, a class D felony. Jones was transported to the Clarke County Jail and later posted a $5,000 surety bond before being released. He’s scheduled to be arraigned on October 6th with a Preliminary hearing on October 10th.
Woman Sentenced To Prison For Vandalizing the Dakota Access Pipeline -
(9-23-22) – 32 year old Ruby Montoya, a second woman involved in the vandalism of the Dakota Access pipeline, was sentenced to six years in federal prison. Montoya admitted to cutting holes in the pipeline in several locations, and setting fire to equipment in Mahaska, Boone, and Wapello Counties, from November 2016 to May of 2017. Montoya, who is living in Arizona, was joined by Jessica Reznicek. Reznicek is serving eight years in prison. Montoya was also ordered to pay nearly three-point-two million dollars in restitution. The two were arrested after vandalizing a sign at the Iowa Utilities Board office after admitting they did the vandalism — saying they were trying to protect water supplies from the pipeline.
Shelby County Board of Supervisors minutes from Tuesday -
(9-22-22) -- The Board of Supervisors of Shelby County, Iowa, met in regular session on Tuesday morning. Mark Maxwell explained the post-election Audit Board hand counted one voting machine and two precincts worth of ballots. The number of ballots inside of the sealed ballot bags matched the number on the machine and were counted a total of four times to confirm. The Audit Board hand counted the yes and no votes in the two precincts and the totals matched perfectly with the machine count. The report was then turned into the Secretary of State’s office as required. Maxwell explained that tabulation from Harrison County is comingled with the results from Shelby County as Shelby County was designated to hold the election for eligible Harrison County voters.
This being the day set by law for the board to canvass the returns of the Shelby County results. The initial abstract was presented as follows: We, the undersigned Members of the Board of Supervisors and ex-officio County Board of Canvassers for this County, do hereby certify the following to be a true and correct abstract of the votes cast in this County at the Harlan Community Schools Public Measures Election held on the 13th day of September 2022, as shown by the tally lists returned from the election precincts for the public measures.|
Next on the agenda was Jim Shelton to advise Shelby County on the Home Base Initiative. The initiative gives Veterans financial assistance and offers employment opportunities available in Shelby County through the Home Base Initiative. A Resolution of Approval will be drafted and submitted to the Supervisors at a later date.
Terri Daringer, current Shelby County Environmental Health Head was on hand to announce her successor upon retirement. The newly hired Luke Wolken was introduced to the Board and received a warm welcome.
Kyle Lindberg, Shelby County Jail Administrator was present to give updates on his departments current quarterly report. Lindberg reported he is fully staffed at the present time. The Supervisors were notified that bookings are running at a record rate for this current year. Jail upgrades are needed and Lindberg is applying for grants to pay for the upgrades.
Alex Londo EMA Coordinator for Shelby County reported his department has been assisting in a school safety initiative, inspecting schools, in cooperation with the Sheriff’s office. The new radios are being tested with a few going to each department for reviews. A microwave antennae needs to be installed and the current tower at Sheriffs building will not support the added weight. Other alternatives are being looked at.
Tony Buman, Shelby County Assessor and Zoning Commissioner was present and informed the Supervisors that the current assessment samples looked at have revealed an assessment increase in residential and commercial properties. It was stressed that it is early in the process and those are the early findings. The process must be completed by January 1st, 2023. The Zoning Commission had a meeting with discussion about the proposed pipeline, a public hearing is to be held to receive public input.
A Building and Grounds Use Permit for Shelby County Courthouse grounds was presented for the Forgotten Art – The Artist Show on November 5th. As nothing is required of County staff, Maxwell recommended approving the use permit.
A fiscal sponsor request was made by the Sheriffs Department for a grant to acquire new safety equipment for the his office. Haake made a motion to be fiscal sponsor, Parkhurst seconded the motion. The motion passed.
Todd Valline presented updates and events sponsored and participated in by his organization, the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Valline advised that Iowa Western Community College is now offering apprenticeship jobs as part of their HVAC program and they are also offering CDL classes.
Shelby County Engineer, Brandon Burmeister, reported on several projects currently being completed by his department and a few updates on planned projects as well as presenting a Title IV assurances agreement between the Iowa DOT and Shelby County.
Atlantic Police Officer charged in northwest Iowa Misconduct in Office & Perjury investigation -
(9-22-22) – (KJAN) – On Wednesday, authorities in northwest Iowa arrested two former Lake City Police Officers and the City Administrator in Lake City, following an Iowa Attorney General’s Office investigation into law enforcement officer certification. One of the officers – 45-year-old Anthony Robert Snyder – was hired by the Atlantic Police Department in February of this year, after leaving the Lake City P-D. Snyder, 57-year-old Eric Clifford Wood, and 46-year-old Aaron Lee Alspach, are accused of providing fraudulent information to obtain Iowa Law Enforcement Academy certification. All three men were charged with misconduct in office and perjury. Wood faces an additional charge of obstruction of prosecution. Wood was released Wednesday after posting a $20,000 bond, and Alspach and Snyder were released after posting $10,000 each. This morning, Atlantic Police Chief Devin Hogue, issued a statement, saying “On September 21, 2022, the Atlantic Police Department was made aware of charges filed by the Iowa Attorney General’s Office on Officer Anthony Snyder for an incident raising questions on his ILEA certification process handled by another city prior to his employment with the City of Atlantic.” The Chief went on to say Officer Snyder has been placed on paid administrative leave while their department awaits further details on the situation and determines what actions may be taken.
No one injured in fire at Sidney School -
(9-22-22) - Students at Sidney's Junior-Senior High School were evacuated for a time Wednesday because of a fire in the building. Sidney's Fire Department and the Fremont County Sheriff's Office responded to the fire at around 1 p.m. The fire was located inside a wastepaper basket inside a restroom, and was extinguished immediately. Hood says the students were evacuated for about a half hour before returning to the building. While smoke filled the building's hallways, it's unknown whether there was any damage. No injuries were reported. The sheriff's office and Sidney fire officials are investigating the incident. Further information on the fire is unavailable at this time.
Social media trend of ‘NyQuil Chicken’ could be lethal
(9-22-22) - (Radio Iowa) – A dangerous and potentially deadly trend is sweeping social media that entices people to cook chicken in cough syrup or cold and flu medicine, prompting an expert at the Iowa Poison Control Center to say -never- do this. Registered nurse Tammy Noble, the Sioux City-based center’s education manager, says this practice can be exceptionally hazardous, depending on what’s used, and she calls it a recipe for disaster. “There’s different medicines that are in the cough syrup and chicken can absorb that cough syrup,” Noble says. “Some of those ingredients could be things like acetaminophen, which is the active ingredient in Tylenol. Acetaminophen is safe in recommended doses but it can cause liver damage and even death when you get overdoses of it.” The U-S Food and Drug Administration has issued an advisory, warning consumers that cooking chicken in these medications is dangerous and Noble confirms, it could be lethal. Cough suppressants can cause heart palpitations and agitations, sometimes even hallucinations depending on the amount that was taken and it also has things like decongestants which have an effect on your blood pressure, can cause heart attacks and headaches if they’re used in high, high doses.” There’s also the risk of food poisoning if the chicken isn’t properly cooked, and if the red, green or blue liquid soaks into the meat, it’ll be hard to distinguish its color. In addition, cooking chicken in a marinade of medication could give off highly concentrated vapors which could critically damage the lungs. So, why would people even consider following this TikTok challenge? Much like with the Tide Pod Challenge a few years ago, in which people shot video of themselves while eating liquid laundry detergent pods, Noble says she’s not surprised people would try cooking chicken in NyQuil.
No injuries in two vehicle accident in Denison -
(9-22-22) – The Denison Police Department investigated a two-vehicle accident on Highway 39 on Friday, September 16th just after 11 am. 51 year old Juan Carlos Gomez-Vasquez of Denison was driving a white 2005 Ford F250 and pulling a dual axle trailer loaded with a blue Dodge Durango. He was headed north on Highway 39. The left rear tire and rim of the trailer came off, striking a red 2012 freightliner semi tractor-trailer on the hood. The semi driver, 35 year old Jeffrey Scott Figgins of Omaha approached to speak with Gomez-Vasquez. Gomez-Vasquez continued driving northbound on Highway 39. Figgins stated that it had looked like Gomez-Vasquez was going to exit his vehicle but took off quickly. Figgins said the trailer was dragging on the road, due to the missing wheel. Crawford County Deputy Christensen and Torres followed the drag marks left by the trailer from the city limits in Denison to G Avenue and 255th Street. The suspect trailer was found on the shoulder. The trailer and Dodge Durango were towed to the Denison Police Impound. At about 1:35 that afternoon, Officer Torres spoke to Gomez-Vasquez who stated he had no idea his wheel came off until he was out of the city limits. He admitted to driving the trailer but denied knowing it caused an accident. The semi received $1,200 damage. The trailer received $800 damage. Gomez-Vasquez was cited for leaving the scene of an accident and operating without registration.
Iowa Economic Development Authority awards $35 million in credits to Workforce Housing Tax Credit projects -
(9-22-22) – On Wednesday, Officials with the Iowa Economic Development Authority announced $35 million in workforce housing tax credits to develop new housing across Iowa. The awards were made to support the construction of 57 housing projects in 30 counties statewide. In our area, among the projects receiving tax credits for fiscal year 2023, is:
Western Ridge on Valley View Drive, in Council Bluffs – Receiving a $1-million tax credit for the new construction of 102 rental unit properties.
A Manilla Plus Single Family Detached Home Construction project will receive a $111,731 tax credit from IEDA, for four units in an owner-occupied home.
And, a multi-family rental property – Manilla Woodland Park Apartments – is receiving a $171,715 award for new construction of 25 units.
IEDA received 133 applications requesting nearly $79 million in tax credits. IEDA had $35 million available for fiscal year 2023. Of that amount, $17.5 million in credits were set aside for projects in small communities defined as those in Iowa’s 88 least populated counties. Projects were scored competitively based on readiness, documented financing, need, local support and participation.
Minden Man Sentenced for Bank Fraud -
(9-21-22) - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa says 60-year-old Stewart Jerome Messerschmidt, of Minden, was sentenced on Tuesday to two months in prison followed by five years of Supervised Release following his plea to a charge of bank fraud. Messerschmidt made false statements to Shelby County State Bank (SCSB) regarding collateral for his farm loans. During 2017 and 2018, Messerschmidt also provided false information on applications for Marketing Assistance Loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) for Messerschmidt’s 2018 farm production. The fraud was discovered during an investigation by SCSB and FSA which showed that Messerschmidt had overstated the grain he produced, had claimed grain belonging to other producers, and falsified the number of cattle he owned. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Nebraska City Woman Sentenced for Methamphetamine Offense -
(9-21-22) - 34 year old Tabitha Standley of Nebraska City was sentenced Tuesday in Council Bluffs U-S District Court, on a drug charge. Standley was sentenced to serve 10-years in prison, following her plea to a charge of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On October 18, 2021, Standley was arrested at the Horseshoe Casino on an unrelated felony warrant. Officers performed a probable cause search of the Standley’s vehicle and located over 300 grams of methamphetamine which Standley had intended to distribute. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and Division of Narcotics Enforcement investigated the case.
Riverside Hall of Fame Class of 2022 to be inducted September 29th -
(9-21-22) – The Riverside Hall of Fame Class of 2022 has been announced. The Induction Ceremony will be held at 2:30 pm, Thursday, September 29th at the Middle/High School Gym in Oakland. Members of the Hall of Fame Class of 2022 include:
Kenneth Finnegan – the Oakland Elementary Principal from 1974-1994
Gary Funkhouse – Oakland Band Director from1967-1978, Superintendent from 1978 to 1980 in Flemme and Superintendent at Carson-Macedonia, Oakland and Whiting from 1980-1993. David Fahrenkrug, a distinguished graduate of Carson-Macedonia in 1978. Steven Pierce – a distinguished graduate of Oakland 19065, former Oakland School Board member and Oakland/Riverside Sports Announcers “Voice of the Bulldogs.”
The 1992 Oakland Yellowjacket Football Team – District 15 Champs with a record of 9 and 1. Coach Marv Thompson and Assistant Coach Tom Grobe. And 1986 Oakland Yellowjacket Boys Basketball Team – 3rd in State, WIC Tournament champions, WIC Conference Runner up and regular season record of 19 and 1 and total record 25 and 2 and coaches Larry Miller and Daryl Nelson.
Shelby County Auditor reports General Election Info -
(9-15-22) - Shelby County Auditor, Mark Maxwell, reminds every eligible elector in Shelby County to get any voting information needed as soon as possible from the Auditors office. Absentee ballot requests are now being accepted for the November 8th General election. If you plan on voting absentee, get the process completed before any deadline has passed. Call 755-3831 ext.6 with any questions. Election deadlines are fixed by Iowa Code to ease any confusion caused by documents not returned in time to be valid. Some of the important dates to remember are:
Wednesday October 19, 2022—Absentee Ballots Ready. First day absentee ballots may be voted in the Auditor’s office and placed in the US postal service process, to the electors whose valid request have been received.
Shelby County Candidate Filings -
(9-2-22) - The Shelby County Auditor’s Office has released a list of candidates for the November Election. They include:
County Supervisor – vote for 1
Republican – Bryce Schaben
Democrat – None
County Treasurer -
Republican – Carolyn Blum, Harlan
Democrat – None
County Recorder -
Republican – Geralyn S. Greer, Harlan
Democrat – none
County Attorney -
Republican – None
Democrat – Marcus Gross Jr – Harlan
Hospital Trustee – vote for 5
Kathleen Kohorst, Harlan
Terry R. Torneton, Harlan
James Zimmerman, Harlan
Tom Cannon, Elk Horn
Janis Norgaard, Shelby
Shelby County Extension – vote for 5
Elaine Baughman, Kirkman
Kristina Larsen, Harlan
Brenda Arkfeld, Portsmouth
Mike Kolbe, Harlan
Katelin Weis, Earling
Soil and Water Conservation – vote for 2
Cathy Johannsen, Harlan
Allan Reinig, Portsmouth
Township Clerk and Trustees – vote for 1
Cass Township
Clerk – Kenneth Stein, Portsmouth
Trustee – James Voge, Sr, Portsmouth
Center Township
Clerk – Keith Burchett, Harlan
Trustee – Steve Ineson, Harlan
Clay Township
Clerk – Steve Jacobs, Marne
Trustee – Gene Mardesen, Elk Horn
Douglas Township
Clerk - Suzanne Rasmussen, Kirkman
Trustee – H. Jay Nielsen, Defiance
Fairview Township
None
Greely Township
Clerk – None
Trustee – Norman Campbell, Irwin
Grove Township -
Clerk – Brad Gross, Earling
Trustee – Joseph Jonathan Klein, Dunlap
Joseph Jonathan Klein - to fill a vacancy
Jackson Township
Clerk – Dan Buman, Harlan
Trustee - Mark Rold, Elk Horn
Trustee – Troy Doonan, Harlan - to fill a vacancy
Jefferson Township
Clerk - Cathy Clark, Manilla
Trustee – Lyle Campbell, Irwin
Lincoln Township
Clerk – H. David Boettger, Harlan
Trustee – Duane Errett, Harlan
Monroe Township
Clerk – Bryan Greve, Walnut
Trustee – John Clayton, Walnut
Polk Township
Clerk – Matt Bartelson, Irwin
Trustee – Karl Hanson, Kirkman
Shelby Township
Clerk – Chris Evans, Shelby
Trustee – None
Union Township
Clerk – Jim Scheuring, Defiance
Trustee – Neal Gaul, Earling
Trustee – Brandon Scheuring, Defiance
Washington Township
Clerk – Connie Klein, Panama
Trustee – None
Westphalia Township
Clerk – None
Trustee – Anthony Goetz, Harlan
Upcoming events -
Need a ride? Southwest Iowa Transit Authority - SWITA - is now available online - swita.com. Through the website you can schedule a ride, setup your student's transportation for the upcoming school year, schedule medical transportation, schedule work routes for you employees, schedule a special trip, check rates and make payments on your account.
Upcoming Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Tuesday, September 27th - Veteran's Memorial Building - 11:30 am to 5:30 pm
An Influenza Clinic will be held Tuesday, September 27th at St. Mary's Parish Center in Portsmouth from 9-9:30 am. No appointments are necessary for this clinic.
Another clinic will be held Wednesday, September 28th, at the Avoca Public Library from 7:30 to 10 am. This is a drive-up clinic. Appointments are not required. Please wear a mask. Please wear clothing that will allow a shot, such as a short sleeve shirt.
THE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF HARLAN INVITES YOU TO JOIN THEM FOR A STALEY’S CHICKEN DINNER ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH FROM 5 TO 7 PM AT THE VET’S AUDITORIUM IN HARLAN. COST FOR ADULTS IS 12-DOLLARS, KIDS AGE 4 TO 10 YEARS, ONLY 5-DOLLARS, AND 3 AND UNDER EAT FOR FREE! ENJOY STALEY’S CHICKEN, POTATOES AND GRAVY, CORN, HOMEMADE SALADS, DESSERTS, PIES, TOO. PURCHASE TICKETS AT THE DOOR OR STOP BY THE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OFFICE IN HARLAN AND ENJOY STALEY’S CHICKEN, WEDNESDAY,
HERE’S A FRIENDLY REMINDER FROM CAROLYN BLUM, SHELBY COUNTY TREASURER – THE FIRST INSTALLMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES ARE DUE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH. TO AVOID PENALTY ON THE FIRST INSTALLMENT, PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED IN THE TREASUER’S OFFICE OR POSTMARKED BY FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2022. PROPERTY TAX INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED ONLINE AT IOWA TREASURERS DOT ORG OR BY CALLING THE TREASURER’S OFFICE AT 755-5847 EXTENSION 2. PAYMENTS MAY ALSO BE POSTED ONLINE BY E-CHECK FOR LESS THAN THE COST OF A POSTAGE STAMP. JUST 25 CENTS PER TRANSACTION! CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS ARE ALSO ACCEPTED ONLINE. ALL CITIZENS OF SHELBY COUNTY ARE INVTED TO VISIT THE WEBSITE WHICH ALLOWS YOU TO DO BUSINESS WITH YOUR CONTY TREASURER 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK.
JOIN THEM FOR THE FUN AND FESTIVITIES AT OKTOBERFEST 2022 AT MANNING HAUSBARN HERITAGE PARK ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1ST.! ENJOY A DELICIOUS GERMAN MEAL CATERED BY HY-VEE AND MUSIC BY BAREFOOT BECKY AND THE IVANHOE DUTCHMEN. DOORS OPEN AT 5 PM, THE KEG WILL BE TAPPED AT 5:30. DINNER RESERVATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED THROU FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23RD, BY CALLING 712/655-3131. DINNER PLUS ENTERTAINMENT IS $25. ENTERTAINMENT ADMISSION AT THE DOOR IS $15. OKTOBERFEST 2022, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1ST AT THE MANNING HAUSBARN HERITAGE PARK.
The Harlan Lion's Club will host a Mobile Drive-Thru Food Pantry Monday, October 3rd from 4:30 until all the food is gone. The event will be held at Veteran's Memorial Building at 1104 Morningview Drive in Harlan. Please enter from 12th street, you will be directed where to line up. There is a limit of 2 boxes per vehicle, to serve a total of 300 households. There will be 1 box of non-perishable food, 1 box of produce, 1 loaf of bread plus frozen meat purchased by the Lions Club. If you have questions, call Sharon at 579-0286. The food pantry is open to everyone.
The north parking lot of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce building will be closed due to work on electrical wires above the lot on Tuesday, October 4th and Wednesday, October 5th. All Chamber visitors are asked to use the Iowa Western Community College parking lot on the south side of the building, enter through the south doors of the college and then proceed to the chamber office. If you have any questions, call 755-2114.
The 16th annual Scarecrow Showdown will be held for Harvest Fest this year. Shelby County Business, display your scarecrow with the theme Beach Party or fall harvest them now through Harvest Fest on Saturday, October 29th. Enter by emailing KNOD or call their office at 755-3883. Deadline to enter is Tuesday, October 18th. First Prize is your choice of 25 free 30-second ads from KNOD or a 1/4 page ad from the Harlan Newspapers. Second prize: the KNOD ads or Newspaper ads. Voting will take place October 19th through 26th on the 2022 Scarecrow Showdown Facebook page or call KNOD. Only one vote per person allowed. The contest is sponsored by the Harlan Newspapers and KNOD Radio.
A free Welcome to Medicare seminar is being offered by the State of Iowa's senior Health Insurance Information Program and the Harlan Senior Center, Thursday, October 13th, from 5:30 to 7 pm at the Therkildsen Activity Center in Harlan. The seminar will cover Medicare Parts A & B benefits, Prescription Drub Benefits - part D. Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Identify Medicare Fraud, Errors and Abuse. Registration is required by October 5th. Call 755-2757.
Seventh Biennial lighted Halloween Campground to be held -
(9-21-22) – Cass County Conservation is hosting their 7th Biennial Lighted Halloween Campground, Saturday, October 22nd at Cold Springs Park in Lewis from 7 to 9 pm. This event is a great, non-scary, family friendly free drive into the night! Prizes will be for the top 3 voted sites, and for some special categories. Sign up to decorate a site in their lighted Halloween campground. Deadline for decorating a site sign up is October 14th and the groups will have October 22nd from noon on to decorate. If you choose to camp overnight, camping will be free. Call the Cass County Conservation office to get involved at 712/269-2372!
Harlan's 21st annual Harvest Festival will be held Saturday, October 29th. This year's theme is "Beach Party". There will not be a parade this year, but it will kick off at 10 am with the $1 Movie at the Harlan Theatre. They'll also have a petting zoo, kids' games, costume contest for kids and pets, Harlan Library's Spooky Storytime, face stickers and free hotdogs served with free lemonade or hot chocolate, depending on the weather. They're also bringing back the cookie decorating. And something new this year, the Hansen House Train.
House Fire in Earling -
At 7:05 Friday morning, the Harlan Fire Department was paged to assist the Earling Fire Department for a house fire at 304 3rd Street in Earling. Westphalia and Panama fire were also called. No other information is currently available.
Fatal motorcycle-tractor accident in Shelby County –
(9-23-22) The Iowa State Patrol reports a collision on Highway 59 just north of Avoca Thursday night, claimed the life of 33 year old Timothy Steve McFarland of Emerson. McFarland was northbound on Highway 59 on a 2011 Harley Davidson motorcycle at 8:19 last night when a 2005 International tractor pulled out from a farm drive at 325 Highway 59. When the tractor, driven by 49-year-old Robert Arkfeld, Jr., entered the highway in an attempt to turn south, McFarland was unable to stop. His motorcycle hit the front of the tractor, resulting in fatal injuries. McFarland died at the scene. Robert Arkfeld, Jr. was not injured. The accident remains under investigation by the Iowa State Patrol and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office
Harlan area MOPS ( a mom's group in Harlan) - is offering a child care night Friday, September 23rd to give parents the opportunity to have a date night. Children must be registered and you can sign up at eventbrite.com/e/parents-night-out-tickets or you can go to the facebook page Harlan Area MOPS.
This Friday, September 23, there are two ambassador visits scheduled in Harlan.
10:30 am. Ambassador Visit for Myrtue Medical Center’s new general surgeon, Dr. Leroy Hodges. This event will be held in the Atrium of the Specialty Clinic. Please enter through the Surgery/ Outpatient Specialty Clinic entrance on Chatburn Avenue.
11:30 am. Ambassador Visit for Conductix-Wampfler, 1605 Industrial Parkway, Harlan to celebrate their 30th anniversary of having a facility in Harlan. Staff will be providing tours of the facility during their open house 12 – 2 pm.
Tiny Lund Memorial Races Friday and Saturday in Harlan -
(9-21-22) - IT’S 2 BIG NIGHTS OF RACING – THIS FRIDAY AND SATURDAY DURING THE TINY LUND MEMORIAL RACES AT THE SHELBY COUNTY SPEEDWAY IN HARLAN. BOTH NIGHTS YOU CAN SEE LATE MODELS, STOCK CARS, SPORTS MODS, HOBBY STOCKS AND 305 SPRINT CARS. PLUS FRIDAY NIGHT THERE WILL BE COMPACTS AND DIRT TRUCKS AND SATURDAY NIGHT THERE’S MODIFIEDS AND WESTERN IOWA VINTAGE CARS TOO. PLUS THERE WILL BE A RACE CAR SHOW ON THE SQUARE FROM 10 TO NOON ON SATURDAY. DON’T MISS A MINUTE OF THE ACTION STARTING 7 PM FRIDAY AND 6 PM SATURDAY –
Celebrate Coca-Cola Days 2022 this weekend, in Atlantic -
(9-20-22) - (KJAN) - Coca-Cola Days will be held September 23rd and 24th in Atlantic. The event is the second largest collector’s show in the United States and includes a tailgate barbecue open to the public, a Show, Swap & Sell, and a Coca-Cola themed raffle. The theme for the 2022 Coca-Cola Days is “Best in Show”. The committee wanted to tie in a Fair theme due to the event taking place at the Cass County Fairgrounds this year.
Raffle items include: A Coca-Cola Cooler filled with Coca-Cola Product and Hy-Vee, Fareway, and BP gift cards worth $100 each. Tickets are available at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce for $5 a ticket or 5 tickets for 20. The winner will be announced Saturday, September 24th at 2 PM at the Show, Swap & Sell meet at the Cass County Fair Grounds. Tickets will also be available for purchase that day.
T-Shirts for the 2022 Coca-Cola Days Celebration are also available for purchase. The shirts are heather grey and feature the theme, “Best in Show”. T-Shirts can be purchased for $20 at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce or day-of at the Show, Swap & Sell Saturday, September 24th.
For more information on Coca-Cola Days or a full list of activities, please visit www.atlanticiowa.com, call the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at 712-243-3017 or email chamber@atlanticiowa.com.
Woodbine Applefest set for September 24th -
(9-16-22) – The last Saturday in September means its time for the festival that is everything apple in the City of Woodbine….It’s Woodbine Applefest! The city will host one of Iowa’s largest car shows, attracting over 350 makes and models. In addition to the car show, there will be a tractor display, a craft show, and an outdoor market, that covers several blocks throughout the town. There will also be live music, historical tours, a kids corner and more. New this year is the hay bale toss, open to all ages. A number of food vendors will be on hand, free entertainment with a live band and a beer garden. You can even take in a helicopter ride.
DNR Seeks Help In Parks On Statewide Volunteer Day -
(9-15-22) - The chief of Iowa’s Parks, Forests and Preserves Bureau is asking Iowans to mark Saturday, September 24th on their calendars to lend a hand with sprucing up our state parks. It’s the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ sixth annual Statewide Volunteer Day. Volunteer projects include putting together and painting picnic tables, picking up trash, removing invasive species, planting trees, and more. There are projects planned all across the state at about one in every four of Iowa’s state parks. To sign up, go to Iowa-dnr-dot-gov-forward-slash-volunteer.
Join your friends at the 7th Catholic Conference as World Class speakers inspire you September 24th and 25th. There are three ways to join in at christourlifeiowa.com. 1. Join them at the Des Moines Wells Fargo Arena live. 2. Come to Earling at St. Joseph Hall for live streaming, Eucharist, Confessions and Adoration. Meals are available and you can come and go. 3. Live stream where you are. If you have any questions, contact Karen Chamberlain at 579-8689.
The City of Exira’s Fall Festival is this weekend!, with many activities for participants to enjoy. The event is on Saturday, September 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Events are a vendor fair, pie baking and scarecrow contest, kid’s activities, and much more. For more information on the Fall Festival, individuals can visit the Exira Community Club on Facebook.
JOIN THE IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN KIMBALLTON THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25th FOR THEIR 9th ANNUAL BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER! FROM 9 AM TO NOON IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL, ENJOY AN EGGS, BACON, PANCAKES, SAUSAGE, BISCUITS AND GRAVY, ROLLS, MUFFINS, YOGURT AND FRUIT, AND A BEVERAGE FOR A FREE WILL OFFERING.. THE SUNDAY SCHOOL CHILDREN WILL ALSO BE HOSTING A BAKE SALE. THIS SUNDAY, ENJOY BREAKFAST AT THE IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN KIMBALLTON FROM 9 TO NOON THIS SUNDAY.
THE MINDEN AMERICAN LEGION POST 437 INVITE YOU TO JOIN THEM AT THE GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY’S DAY, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH AT THE MINDEN COMMUNITY HALL FROM 5 TO 8 PM. DINNER WILL BE SERVED AT 5:30 AND WILL FEATURE BROASTED CHICKEN AND PRIME SMOKED LOIN, POTATOES AND GRAVY, BUTTERED CORN, SALAD AND DESSERTS INCLUDING WOODBINE APPLEFEST PIE! ALL THIS FOR A FREE WILL DONATION. A PROGRAM WILL START AT 6:30 RECOGNIZING AND HONORING SURVIVING MOTHERS AND FAMILIES OF FALLEN SERVICE MEMBERS. IF YOU KNOW OF SOMEONE WHO DESERVES THIS AWARD CALL 483-2233 OR 402/680-2505. THE GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY’S DAY, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH AT THE MINDEN COMMUNIITY HALL FROM 5 TO 8 PM.
GriefShare Seminar/Support Group will be held 5:30 to 7:30 Monday, September 26th, at the First Baptist Church at 1325 Chatburn Avenue in Harlan. GriefShare is a special weekly seminar and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close them them For more information, call the church at 755-2711.
Harlan Income Survey -
(9-19-22) – There will be a local online, telephone and/or door-to-door survey of households in Harlan. The survey is necessary for the city to apply to the State for a Community Development Block Grant for sewer improvements needed by the city’s system. The survey will determine whether more than 51% of Harlan’s population is considered low to moderate income, which is required for the grant. Surveys can be picked up at Harlan City Hall, the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry or online. Please complete the survey by Friday, September 30th. If you have any questions, please contact Dani Briggs at SWIPCO at 243-4196.
Bench warrant issued for Anthony Rey Asay -
(9-23-22) – (KJAN) – On Monday, Cass County District Court Judge Greg Steensland issued a Bench Warrant for 30 year old Anthony Rey Asay. The warrant is for Failure to Appear for his September 19th Pre-Trial Conference. In Cass County, Asay faces a Class D Felony charge of Willful Injury Causing Serious Injury, and Serious Misdemeanor Charges of Assault causing bodily injury or mental illness and Possession of a Controlled Substance – 1st offense – marijuana associated with a stabbing incident that took place on May 5th in Atlantic. On August 29th, Asay’s Pre-Trial release was revoked and his cash-only bond was set at $5,000. His trial remains set for September 27th at 9:30 am in Cass County District Court. Asay, who was wearing an ankle tracking bracelet was arrested Aug. 11th in connection with a stabbing incident at a gas station in Blair, Nebraska while he was awaiting trial on the incident in Atlantic. The victim in the Nebraska incident was treated for an injury to his arm. Asay faces charges associated with the Nebraska incident that include: 3rd Degree Assault for punching the victim; 2nd Degree Assault for stabbing the victim; Use of a Weapon to Commit a Felony; Possession of a Deadly Weapon by Prohibited Person – for possessing the knife he used to stab the male after being convicted of multiple felonies prior to this incident; and Driving under Revocation.
Inman Elementary School Dean of Students arrested -
(9-23-22) – 30 year old Anthony Tyler Jones, the Dean of Students for Inman Elementary School in Red Oak, was arrested Monday night on a warrant out of Clarke County associated with an incident that happened in August of 2018. According to the Montgomery county Sheriff’s Office, Jones was arrested a little after 8:30 pm Monday on the warrant for 2nd degree criminal mischief, a class D felony. Jones was transported to the Clarke County Jail and later posted a $5,000 surety bond before being released. He’s scheduled to be arraigned on October 6th with a Preliminary hearing on October 10th.
Woman Sentenced To Prison For Vandalizing the Dakota Access Pipeline -
(9-23-22) – 32 year old Ruby Montoya, a second woman involved in the vandalism of the Dakota Access pipeline, was sentenced to six years in federal prison. Montoya admitted to cutting holes in the pipeline in several locations, and setting fire to equipment in Mahaska, Boone, and Wapello Counties, from November 2016 to May of 2017. Montoya, who is living in Arizona, was joined by Jessica Reznicek. Reznicek is serving eight years in prison. Montoya was also ordered to pay nearly three-point-two million dollars in restitution. The two were arrested after vandalizing a sign at the Iowa Utilities Board office after admitting they did the vandalism — saying they were trying to protect water supplies from the pipeline.
Shelby County Board of Supervisors minutes from Tuesday -
(9-22-22) -- The Board of Supervisors of Shelby County, Iowa, met in regular session on Tuesday morning. Mark Maxwell explained the post-election Audit Board hand counted one voting machine and two precincts worth of ballots. The number of ballots inside of the sealed ballot bags matched the number on the machine and were counted a total of four times to confirm. The Audit Board hand counted the yes and no votes in the two precincts and the totals matched perfectly with the machine count. The report was then turned into the Secretary of State’s office as required. Maxwell explained that tabulation from Harrison County is comingled with the results from Shelby County as Shelby County was designated to hold the election for eligible Harrison County voters.
This being the day set by law for the board to canvass the returns of the Shelby County results. The initial abstract was presented as follows: We, the undersigned Members of the Board of Supervisors and ex-officio County Board of Canvassers for this County, do hereby certify the following to be a true and correct abstract of the votes cast in this County at the Harlan Community Schools Public Measures Election held on the 13th day of September 2022, as shown by the tally lists returned from the election precincts for the public measures.|
Next on the agenda was Jim Shelton to advise Shelby County on the Home Base Initiative. The initiative gives Veterans financial assistance and offers employment opportunities available in Shelby County through the Home Base Initiative. A Resolution of Approval will be drafted and submitted to the Supervisors at a later date.
Terri Daringer, current Shelby County Environmental Health Head was on hand to announce her successor upon retirement. The newly hired Luke Wolken was introduced to the Board and received a warm welcome.
Kyle Lindberg, Shelby County Jail Administrator was present to give updates on his departments current quarterly report. Lindberg reported he is fully staffed at the present time. The Supervisors were notified that bookings are running at a record rate for this current year. Jail upgrades are needed and Lindberg is applying for grants to pay for the upgrades.
Alex Londo EMA Coordinator for Shelby County reported his department has been assisting in a school safety initiative, inspecting schools, in cooperation with the Sheriff’s office. The new radios are being tested with a few going to each department for reviews. A microwave antennae needs to be installed and the current tower at Sheriffs building will not support the added weight. Other alternatives are being looked at.
Tony Buman, Shelby County Assessor and Zoning Commissioner was present and informed the Supervisors that the current assessment samples looked at have revealed an assessment increase in residential and commercial properties. It was stressed that it is early in the process and those are the early findings. The process must be completed by January 1st, 2023. The Zoning Commission had a meeting with discussion about the proposed pipeline, a public hearing is to be held to receive public input.
A Building and Grounds Use Permit for Shelby County Courthouse grounds was presented for the Forgotten Art – The Artist Show on November 5th. As nothing is required of County staff, Maxwell recommended approving the use permit.
A fiscal sponsor request was made by the Sheriffs Department for a grant to acquire new safety equipment for the his office. Haake made a motion to be fiscal sponsor, Parkhurst seconded the motion. The motion passed.
Todd Valline presented updates and events sponsored and participated in by his organization, the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Valline advised that Iowa Western Community College is now offering apprenticeship jobs as part of their HVAC program and they are also offering CDL classes.
Shelby County Engineer, Brandon Burmeister, reported on several projects currently being completed by his department and a few updates on planned projects as well as presenting a Title IV assurances agreement between the Iowa DOT and Shelby County.
Atlantic Police Officer charged in northwest Iowa Misconduct in Office & Perjury investigation -
(9-22-22) – (KJAN) – On Wednesday, authorities in northwest Iowa arrested two former Lake City Police Officers and the City Administrator in Lake City, following an Iowa Attorney General’s Office investigation into law enforcement officer certification. One of the officers – 45-year-old Anthony Robert Snyder – was hired by the Atlantic Police Department in February of this year, after leaving the Lake City P-D. Snyder, 57-year-old Eric Clifford Wood, and 46-year-old Aaron Lee Alspach, are accused of providing fraudulent information to obtain Iowa Law Enforcement Academy certification. All three men were charged with misconduct in office and perjury. Wood faces an additional charge of obstruction of prosecution. Wood was released Wednesday after posting a $20,000 bond, and Alspach and Snyder were released after posting $10,000 each. This morning, Atlantic Police Chief Devin Hogue, issued a statement, saying “On September 21, 2022, the Atlantic Police Department was made aware of charges filed by the Iowa Attorney General’s Office on Officer Anthony Snyder for an incident raising questions on his ILEA certification process handled by another city prior to his employment with the City of Atlantic.” The Chief went on to say Officer Snyder has been placed on paid administrative leave while their department awaits further details on the situation and determines what actions may be taken.
No one injured in fire at Sidney School -
(9-22-22) - Students at Sidney's Junior-Senior High School were evacuated for a time Wednesday because of a fire in the building. Sidney's Fire Department and the Fremont County Sheriff's Office responded to the fire at around 1 p.m. The fire was located inside a wastepaper basket inside a restroom, and was extinguished immediately. Hood says the students were evacuated for about a half hour before returning to the building. While smoke filled the building's hallways, it's unknown whether there was any damage. No injuries were reported. The sheriff's office and Sidney fire officials are investigating the incident. Further information on the fire is unavailable at this time.
Social media trend of ‘NyQuil Chicken’ could be lethal
(9-22-22) - (Radio Iowa) – A dangerous and potentially deadly trend is sweeping social media that entices people to cook chicken in cough syrup or cold and flu medicine, prompting an expert at the Iowa Poison Control Center to say -never- do this. Registered nurse Tammy Noble, the Sioux City-based center’s education manager, says this practice can be exceptionally hazardous, depending on what’s used, and she calls it a recipe for disaster. “There’s different medicines that are in the cough syrup and chicken can absorb that cough syrup,” Noble says. “Some of those ingredients could be things like acetaminophen, which is the active ingredient in Tylenol. Acetaminophen is safe in recommended doses but it can cause liver damage and even death when you get overdoses of it.” The U-S Food and Drug Administration has issued an advisory, warning consumers that cooking chicken in these medications is dangerous and Noble confirms, it could be lethal. Cough suppressants can cause heart palpitations and agitations, sometimes even hallucinations depending on the amount that was taken and it also has things like decongestants which have an effect on your blood pressure, can cause heart attacks and headaches if they’re used in high, high doses.” There’s also the risk of food poisoning if the chicken isn’t properly cooked, and if the red, green or blue liquid soaks into the meat, it’ll be hard to distinguish its color. In addition, cooking chicken in a marinade of medication could give off highly concentrated vapors which could critically damage the lungs. So, why would people even consider following this TikTok challenge? Much like with the Tide Pod Challenge a few years ago, in which people shot video of themselves while eating liquid laundry detergent pods, Noble says she’s not surprised people would try cooking chicken in NyQuil.
No injuries in two vehicle accident in Denison -
(9-22-22) – The Denison Police Department investigated a two-vehicle accident on Highway 39 on Friday, September 16th just after 11 am. 51 year old Juan Carlos Gomez-Vasquez of Denison was driving a white 2005 Ford F250 and pulling a dual axle trailer loaded with a blue Dodge Durango. He was headed north on Highway 39. The left rear tire and rim of the trailer came off, striking a red 2012 freightliner semi tractor-trailer on the hood. The semi driver, 35 year old Jeffrey Scott Figgins of Omaha approached to speak with Gomez-Vasquez. Gomez-Vasquez continued driving northbound on Highway 39. Figgins stated that it had looked like Gomez-Vasquez was going to exit his vehicle but took off quickly. Figgins said the trailer was dragging on the road, due to the missing wheel. Crawford County Deputy Christensen and Torres followed the drag marks left by the trailer from the city limits in Denison to G Avenue and 255th Street. The suspect trailer was found on the shoulder. The trailer and Dodge Durango were towed to the Denison Police Impound. At about 1:35 that afternoon, Officer Torres spoke to Gomez-Vasquez who stated he had no idea his wheel came off until he was out of the city limits. He admitted to driving the trailer but denied knowing it caused an accident. The semi received $1,200 damage. The trailer received $800 damage. Gomez-Vasquez was cited for leaving the scene of an accident and operating without registration.
Iowa Economic Development Authority awards $35 million in credits to Workforce Housing Tax Credit projects -
(9-22-22) – On Wednesday, Officials with the Iowa Economic Development Authority announced $35 million in workforce housing tax credits to develop new housing across Iowa. The awards were made to support the construction of 57 housing projects in 30 counties statewide. In our area, among the projects receiving tax credits for fiscal year 2023, is:
Western Ridge on Valley View Drive, in Council Bluffs – Receiving a $1-million tax credit for the new construction of 102 rental unit properties.
A Manilla Plus Single Family Detached Home Construction project will receive a $111,731 tax credit from IEDA, for four units in an owner-occupied home.
And, a multi-family rental property – Manilla Woodland Park Apartments – is receiving a $171,715 award for new construction of 25 units.
IEDA received 133 applications requesting nearly $79 million in tax credits. IEDA had $35 million available for fiscal year 2023. Of that amount, $17.5 million in credits were set aside for projects in small communities defined as those in Iowa’s 88 least populated counties. Projects were scored competitively based on readiness, documented financing, need, local support and participation.
Minden Man Sentenced for Bank Fraud -
(9-21-22) - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa says 60-year-old Stewart Jerome Messerschmidt, of Minden, was sentenced on Tuesday to two months in prison followed by five years of Supervised Release following his plea to a charge of bank fraud. Messerschmidt made false statements to Shelby County State Bank (SCSB) regarding collateral for his farm loans. During 2017 and 2018, Messerschmidt also provided false information on applications for Marketing Assistance Loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) for Messerschmidt’s 2018 farm production. The fraud was discovered during an investigation by SCSB and FSA which showed that Messerschmidt had overstated the grain he produced, had claimed grain belonging to other producers, and falsified the number of cattle he owned. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Nebraska City Woman Sentenced for Methamphetamine Offense -
(9-21-22) - 34 year old Tabitha Standley of Nebraska City was sentenced Tuesday in Council Bluffs U-S District Court, on a drug charge. Standley was sentenced to serve 10-years in prison, following her plea to a charge of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On October 18, 2021, Standley was arrested at the Horseshoe Casino on an unrelated felony warrant. Officers performed a probable cause search of the Standley’s vehicle and located over 300 grams of methamphetamine which Standley had intended to distribute. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and Division of Narcotics Enforcement investigated the case.
Riverside Hall of Fame Class of 2022 to be inducted September 29th -
(9-21-22) – The Riverside Hall of Fame Class of 2022 has been announced. The Induction Ceremony will be held at 2:30 pm, Thursday, September 29th at the Middle/High School Gym in Oakland. Members of the Hall of Fame Class of 2022 include:
Kenneth Finnegan – the Oakland Elementary Principal from 1974-1994
Gary Funkhouse – Oakland Band Director from1967-1978, Superintendent from 1978 to 1980 in Flemme and Superintendent at Carson-Macedonia, Oakland and Whiting from 1980-1993. David Fahrenkrug, a distinguished graduate of Carson-Macedonia in 1978. Steven Pierce – a distinguished graduate of Oakland 19065, former Oakland School Board member and Oakland/Riverside Sports Announcers “Voice of the Bulldogs.”
The 1992 Oakland Yellowjacket Football Team – District 15 Champs with a record of 9 and 1. Coach Marv Thompson and Assistant Coach Tom Grobe. And 1986 Oakland Yellowjacket Boys Basketball Team – 3rd in State, WIC Tournament champions, WIC Conference Runner up and regular season record of 19 and 1 and total record 25 and 2 and coaches Larry Miller and Daryl Nelson.
Shelby County Auditor reports General Election Info -
(9-15-22) - Shelby County Auditor, Mark Maxwell, reminds every eligible elector in Shelby County to get any voting information needed as soon as possible from the Auditors office. Absentee ballot requests are now being accepted for the November 8th General election. If you plan on voting absentee, get the process completed before any deadline has passed. Call 755-3831 ext.6 with any questions. Election deadlines are fixed by Iowa Code to ease any confusion caused by documents not returned in time to be valid. Some of the important dates to remember are:
Wednesday October 19, 2022—Absentee Ballots Ready. First day absentee ballots may be voted in the Auditor’s office and placed in the US postal service process, to the electors whose valid request have been received.
- October 24, 2022—Voter Pre-Registration Deadline. The deadline to pre-register to vote for the General Election is 5:00 p.m. Voters may still register after this date but need to show both ID and proof of residence.
- Monday October 24, 2022—Absentee Ballot by Mail Request Deadline. Deadline is 5:00 p.m. Postmarks do not count for requests.
- Saturday November 5, 2022—Auditor’s office open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Monday November 7, 2022—Absentee Ballot In-Person Deadline. Last day to request and vote an absentee ballot in person at the Auditor’s Office.
- November 8, 2022--GENERAL ELECTION DAY. Polls open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Absentee Ballot Deadline to Auditors office 8:00 p.m.
Shelby County Candidate Filings -
(9-2-22) - The Shelby County Auditor’s Office has released a list of candidates for the November Election. They include:
County Supervisor – vote for 1
Republican – Bryce Schaben
Democrat – None
County Treasurer -
Republican – Carolyn Blum, Harlan
Democrat – None
County Recorder -
Republican – Geralyn S. Greer, Harlan
Democrat – none
County Attorney -
Republican – None
Democrat – Marcus Gross Jr – Harlan
Hospital Trustee – vote for 5
Kathleen Kohorst, Harlan
Terry R. Torneton, Harlan
James Zimmerman, Harlan
Tom Cannon, Elk Horn
Janis Norgaard, Shelby
Shelby County Extension – vote for 5
Elaine Baughman, Kirkman
Kristina Larsen, Harlan
Brenda Arkfeld, Portsmouth
Mike Kolbe, Harlan
Katelin Weis, Earling
Soil and Water Conservation – vote for 2
Cathy Johannsen, Harlan
Allan Reinig, Portsmouth
Township Clerk and Trustees – vote for 1
Cass Township
Clerk – Kenneth Stein, Portsmouth
Trustee – James Voge, Sr, Portsmouth
Center Township
Clerk – Keith Burchett, Harlan
Trustee – Steve Ineson, Harlan
Clay Township
Clerk – Steve Jacobs, Marne
Trustee – Gene Mardesen, Elk Horn
Douglas Township
Clerk - Suzanne Rasmussen, Kirkman
Trustee – H. Jay Nielsen, Defiance
Fairview Township
None
Greely Township
Clerk – None
Trustee – Norman Campbell, Irwin
Grove Township -
Clerk – Brad Gross, Earling
Trustee – Joseph Jonathan Klein, Dunlap
Joseph Jonathan Klein - to fill a vacancy
Jackson Township
Clerk – Dan Buman, Harlan
Trustee - Mark Rold, Elk Horn
Trustee – Troy Doonan, Harlan - to fill a vacancy
Jefferson Township
Clerk - Cathy Clark, Manilla
Trustee – Lyle Campbell, Irwin
Lincoln Township
Clerk – H. David Boettger, Harlan
Trustee – Duane Errett, Harlan
Monroe Township
Clerk – Bryan Greve, Walnut
Trustee – John Clayton, Walnut
Polk Township
Clerk – Matt Bartelson, Irwin
Trustee – Karl Hanson, Kirkman
Shelby Township
Clerk – Chris Evans, Shelby
Trustee – None
Union Township
Clerk – Jim Scheuring, Defiance
Trustee – Neal Gaul, Earling
Trustee – Brandon Scheuring, Defiance
Washington Township
Clerk – Connie Klein, Panama
Trustee – None
Westphalia Township
Clerk – None
Trustee – Anthony Goetz, Harlan
Upcoming events -
Need a ride? Southwest Iowa Transit Authority - SWITA - is now available online - swita.com. Through the website you can schedule a ride, setup your student's transportation for the upcoming school year, schedule medical transportation, schedule work routes for you employees, schedule a special trip, check rates and make payments on your account.
Upcoming Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Tuesday, September 27th - Veteran's Memorial Building - 11:30 am to 5:30 pm
An Influenza Clinic will be held Tuesday, September 27th at St. Mary's Parish Center in Portsmouth from 9-9:30 am. No appointments are necessary for this clinic.
Another clinic will be held Wednesday, September 28th, at the Avoca Public Library from 7:30 to 10 am. This is a drive-up clinic. Appointments are not required. Please wear a mask. Please wear clothing that will allow a shot, such as a short sleeve shirt.
THE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF HARLAN INVITES YOU TO JOIN THEM FOR A STALEY’S CHICKEN DINNER ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH FROM 5 TO 7 PM AT THE VET’S AUDITORIUM IN HARLAN. COST FOR ADULTS IS 12-DOLLARS, KIDS AGE 4 TO 10 YEARS, ONLY 5-DOLLARS, AND 3 AND UNDER EAT FOR FREE! ENJOY STALEY’S CHICKEN, POTATOES AND GRAVY, CORN, HOMEMADE SALADS, DESSERTS, PIES, TOO. PURCHASE TICKETS AT THE DOOR OR STOP BY THE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OFFICE IN HARLAN AND ENJOY STALEY’S CHICKEN, WEDNESDAY,
HERE’S A FRIENDLY REMINDER FROM CAROLYN BLUM, SHELBY COUNTY TREASURER – THE FIRST INSTALLMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES ARE DUE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH. TO AVOID PENALTY ON THE FIRST INSTALLMENT, PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED IN THE TREASUER’S OFFICE OR POSTMARKED BY FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2022. PROPERTY TAX INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED ONLINE AT IOWA TREASURERS DOT ORG OR BY CALLING THE TREASURER’S OFFICE AT 755-5847 EXTENSION 2. PAYMENTS MAY ALSO BE POSTED ONLINE BY E-CHECK FOR LESS THAN THE COST OF A POSTAGE STAMP. JUST 25 CENTS PER TRANSACTION! CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS ARE ALSO ACCEPTED ONLINE. ALL CITIZENS OF SHELBY COUNTY ARE INVTED TO VISIT THE WEBSITE WHICH ALLOWS YOU TO DO BUSINESS WITH YOUR CONTY TREASURER 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK.
JOIN THEM FOR THE FUN AND FESTIVITIES AT OKTOBERFEST 2022 AT MANNING HAUSBARN HERITAGE PARK ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1ST.! ENJOY A DELICIOUS GERMAN MEAL CATERED BY HY-VEE AND MUSIC BY BAREFOOT BECKY AND THE IVANHOE DUTCHMEN. DOORS OPEN AT 5 PM, THE KEG WILL BE TAPPED AT 5:30. DINNER RESERVATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED THROU FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23RD, BY CALLING 712/655-3131. DINNER PLUS ENTERTAINMENT IS $25. ENTERTAINMENT ADMISSION AT THE DOOR IS $15. OKTOBERFEST 2022, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1ST AT THE MANNING HAUSBARN HERITAGE PARK.
The Harlan Lion's Club will host a Mobile Drive-Thru Food Pantry Monday, October 3rd from 4:30 until all the food is gone. The event will be held at Veteran's Memorial Building at 1104 Morningview Drive in Harlan. Please enter from 12th street, you will be directed where to line up. There is a limit of 2 boxes per vehicle, to serve a total of 300 households. There will be 1 box of non-perishable food, 1 box of produce, 1 loaf of bread plus frozen meat purchased by the Lions Club. If you have questions, call Sharon at 579-0286. The food pantry is open to everyone.
The north parking lot of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce building will be closed due to work on electrical wires above the lot on Tuesday, October 4th and Wednesday, October 5th. All Chamber visitors are asked to use the Iowa Western Community College parking lot on the south side of the building, enter through the south doors of the college and then proceed to the chamber office. If you have any questions, call 755-2114.
The 16th annual Scarecrow Showdown will be held for Harvest Fest this year. Shelby County Business, display your scarecrow with the theme Beach Party or fall harvest them now through Harvest Fest on Saturday, October 29th. Enter by emailing KNOD or call their office at 755-3883. Deadline to enter is Tuesday, October 18th. First Prize is your choice of 25 free 30-second ads from KNOD or a 1/4 page ad from the Harlan Newspapers. Second prize: the KNOD ads or Newspaper ads. Voting will take place October 19th through 26th on the 2022 Scarecrow Showdown Facebook page or call KNOD. Only one vote per person allowed. The contest is sponsored by the Harlan Newspapers and KNOD Radio.
A free Welcome to Medicare seminar is being offered by the State of Iowa's senior Health Insurance Information Program and the Harlan Senior Center, Thursday, October 13th, from 5:30 to 7 pm at the Therkildsen Activity Center in Harlan. The seminar will cover Medicare Parts A & B benefits, Prescription Drub Benefits - part D. Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Identify Medicare Fraud, Errors and Abuse. Registration is required by October 5th. Call 755-2757.
Seventh Biennial lighted Halloween Campground to be held -
(9-21-22) – Cass County Conservation is hosting their 7th Biennial Lighted Halloween Campground, Saturday, October 22nd at Cold Springs Park in Lewis from 7 to 9 pm. This event is a great, non-scary, family friendly free drive into the night! Prizes will be for the top 3 voted sites, and for some special categories. Sign up to decorate a site in their lighted Halloween campground. Deadline for decorating a site sign up is October 14th and the groups will have October 22nd from noon on to decorate. If you choose to camp overnight, camping will be free. Call the Cass County Conservation office to get involved at 712/269-2372!
Harlan's 21st annual Harvest Festival will be held Saturday, October 29th. This year's theme is "Beach Party". There will not be a parade this year, but it will kick off at 10 am with the $1 Movie at the Harlan Theatre. They'll also have a petting zoo, kids' games, costume contest for kids and pets, Harlan Library's Spooky Storytime, face stickers and free hotdogs served with free lemonade or hot chocolate, depending on the weather. They're also bringing back the cookie decorating. And something new this year, the Hansen House Train.
KNOD Radio
|
Phone: 712.755.3883
800.876.KNOD (5663) FAX: 712.755.7511 General Email: knodfm@harlannet.com News Email: knodnews@harlannet.com |
|
Site Map |
|
Copyright © 2012-02017 KNOD Radio 105.3 FM • 909 Chatburn Ave. • Harlan, Iowa 51537 • 712.755.3883 • All rights reserved
|