Monday, December 4th, 2023
Message from Shelby County Sheriff’s Office concerning suspicious vehicle -
(11-30-23) - The Shelby County Sheriff's Office received a phone call in the early morning hours of 11/30/23. Dispatch was advised that a black SUV with Nebraska License plate was parked on the side of the in the area of 1600th St. and Ironwood Rd. Additional information from the caller stated there was a male and female outside of the vehicle possibly attempting to wave them to stop. The caller did not stop but continued past and the male and female got into the vehicle and left the area. Responding deputies were advised the vehicle was heading west bound and responded to the area appropriately. A follow up call was then made after a duration of time that the vehicle actually went east bound. Deputies were unable to locate the vehicle and the plate given came back to a green Toyota Tacoma, not a black SUV. To the Public: If you see anything suspicious please call 911 or 712-755-5026 and give as much detail as possible to the dispatch center to assist with a proper response. Thank you for being vigilant and continue to call with anything suspicious.
Crop Insurance Discount Program - Sign-Up Began December 1-
(11-30-23) - Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the sign-up period for the Crop Insurance Discount Program will begin on Friday, December 1 and will close on Friday, January 26, 2024. To sign-up to participate, visit Apply.CleanWaterIowa.org. Offered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the program provides farmers and landowners who plant fall cover crops the opportunity to apply for a $5 per acre discount on their spring crop insurance premiums. Now in its seventh year, the Crop Insurance Discount Program has enrolled nearly 2,000 farmers who have seeded more than 1 million acres of cover crops to date. To qualify for the program, the cover crop acres cannot be enrolled in other state or United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) cost share programs. Farmers should visit their local USDA Service Center to learn about other cost share funding available to support the implementation of conservation practices. Some insurance policies, such as Whole-Farm Revenue Protection or those covered through written agreements, may be excluded. Participants must follow all existing farming practices required by their respective policy and work with their insurance agencies to maintain eligibility.
Area American Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Monday, December 4th Noon to 6 pm St. Joseph's Hall in Earling
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry invites you to shop and win! For every $25 you spend at participating businesses - look for the "Let's Keep the Cheer Here" sign from December 4th through the 22nd, you will receive a raffle ticket with a limit of 10 tickets per purchase. The drawing will be held on Tuesday, January 2nd.
The Mobile Drive-Thru Food Pantry sponsored by the Foodbank for the Heartland and Harlan Lions Club will be held Monday, December 4th, starting at 4:30 pm at Veteran’s Memorial Building in Harlan. There will be ONLY 1 DRIVE THRU LANE ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE VETS BUILDING. NO WALK-INS. You will receive 1 community box, 1 box of produce, 1 loaf of bread and 1 package meat product, donated by Monogram Foods. Limit two sets of food per vehicle. You may go through the line a second time. If you have any questions, call Sharon at 579-0286.
The GriefShare Seminar/Support Group will meet on Mondays, through December 11th from 5:30 to 7 pm at the First Baptist Church on Chatburn Avenue in Harlan. For more information, call the church office at 755-2711.
Crawford County Memorial Hospital is sponsoring a free holiday meal for senior citizens in Crawford County On Monday, December 4th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m at the Denison high school cafeteria. This meal is also free to driving companions of senior citizens. This year they will also have a drive-thru option for pick up at Circle Drive from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This year they are serving pork loin, mashed potatoes, gravy, dinner rolls, and dessert.
The Shelby County Board of Supervisors will meet at 9 am, Tuesday morning at the courthouse. Among items to be discussed is approval of Homestead applications; Internal loan set hearing Resolution 2023-49; a Secondary Roads report including utility permit with Nishnabotna Valley REC 2023-12-1, Resolution 2023-51 – a resolution awarding the contract for a project in Shelby County and authorizing the Shelby County Engineer to execute the contract, Resolution 2023-52 a resolution awarding the contract for a project in Shelby County and Authorizing the Shelby County Engineer to Execute the contract; consideration of acceptance of County Engineers Letter of Resignation; Supervisor committee reports; possible closed session – evaluation or promotion of Assistant Engineer.
The Harlan City Council will meet in regular session Tuesday, December 5th at 5:15. Among items on the agenda is a public hearing regarding the application with the Community Development Block Grant program for financial assistance for the Wastewater System Improvement project and a motion to close the hearing. Resolution No. 2549, a resolution to apply for Financial Assistance with Community Development Block Grant program for the Wastewater System Improvement Project. Resolution No 2550, a resolution of appreciation, years of service; receive and file the Airport Commission Meeting minutes from November 22nd, including reviewing federal airport improvement program and resolution No. 2551 – a resolution accepting completion of the airport reconstruction T-Hangar Taxilanes Project; review the memorandum of understanding for use of County Ambulance; receive and file personnel and finance committee meeting minutes from December 1st including reviewing the recommendation to accept retirement of City Clerk/Finance Director, approve the job description and advertise for the position; review the recommendation to update the holiday benefits effective December 6th, to include an addition half day on Christmas Eve and an additional half day on New Years Eve and a new vacation schedule, effective January 1, 2024 and review the recommendation to change city hall hours to 8 to 4:30 effective December 6th. There will also be the City Administrator’s Report and the Mayor’s Report.
Ballpark to Ballpark Trail Donation Drive -
(11-17-23) – The Shelby County Trails, a 501(C)3 organization, is doing a donation drive through December 27th to obtain matching funds for the State Recreational Trails Grant that was received in October. There were 44 applicants for the state grant and the Ballpark-to-Ballpark trail was one of only 7 applications to receive funding. Panama Transfer has pledged to match all donations received up to a maximum of $25,000. All donations are tax deductible. Donations may be dropped off at the Shelby Chamber Office.
GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON -
(11-28-23) - Festive parties, family gatherings,shopping for loved ones, giving blood? Make giving the gift of life part of your holiday traditions this year! The winter weather and hustle and bustle of the season often keeps people away
from LifeServe Blood Center’s Donor Centers and mobile blood drives, but the warmth a lifesaving donation can bring is worth experiencing. Make plans today to schedule an appointment at a location near you.
Manilla Community Blood Drive, 12/04/2023 from 12:00 pm - 04:20 pm at 550 Main St., Manilla.
Denison Community Blood Drive, 12/11/2023 from 12:15 pm - 05:45 pm at 100 Medical Parkway, Denison.
Schedule a blood donation appointment online at lifeservebloodcenter.org or call 800.287.4903.
Fill the trailer is an event that helps Operation Backpack. Operation Backpack is a program that Harlan Community Student Council runs that helps many local students be able to eat when the weekend comes around. The student Council will be at the Fareway parking lot, Saturday. December 9th from 8 to 4. They are looking for canned goods, and non-perishable items. If anyone has any questions, feel free to contact Sabre Schmitz at 579-4967.
Harlan Fire Called out Saturday afternoon –
(12-4-23) – The Harlan Fire Department was called out Saturday afternoon to a possible structure fire at Westridge Apartments. Upon arrival, it was found that someone thought they had smelled something and pulled the fire alarm. The department searched every apartment in the complex and found nothing and returned to the station.
Arrest Report: Shelby County Sheriff’s Office
(12-4-23) – The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office has released their arrest report for the last half of November.
On November 29th, 69 year old Gerard August Rueschenberg of Harlan was arrested on an active Shelby County Warrant for Failure to appear. He was transported to the Shelby County Jail.
November 27th, 40 year old Brandon Glenn Billings of Harlan was arrested following a traffic stop in the 1200 block of College Blvd in Harlan. Billings was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Driving while License is Revoked and Failure to Provide Proof of Financial Liability.
22 year old Avery Jon Zenk of Denison was arrested November 26th, on an active Shelby County Warrant for Domestic Abuse Assault. Zenk was transported to the Shelby County Jail.
On November 25th, 53 year old Craig John Stork of Harlan was arrested following an investigation of a possible motor vehicle accident in the area of 7th and Court Street in Harlan. Stork was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with OWI 1st.
There were 2 arrests on November 22nd. 58 year old Douglas Duane Curtis of Harlan was arrested following a traffic stop in the 1200 block of Hawkeye Avenue in Harlan. Curtis was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Driving Under Suspension and Interference with Official Acts. And 37 year old Bryan Joseph Schuemann of Harlan was arrested following a traffic stop in the 1100 block of Willow Street. Schuemann was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Driving Under Suspension, Keeping Premises or Vehicle for Controlled Substance, Possession of Controlled Substance – Marijuana, 3rd or Subsequent Offense, Possession of Contraband in a Correctional Institution and Failure to Provide Proof of Financial Liability.
On November 21st,, 46 year old Laura Ann Traufler of Harlan was arrested following an investigation. Traufler was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Theft 2nd, Possession of Controlled Substance 3rd or Subsequent Offense and Possession of Controlled Substance, Marijuana, 3rd or subsequent offense. Also on the 21st, 31 year old Drew Ashton Gagnon of Red Oak was arrested on an active Shelby County Warrant for Violation of Probation.
49 year old Darin Lee Turner of Harlan was arrested on November 20th following a traffic stop near Cyclone Avenue and 19th Street in Harlan. Turner was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with OWI 1st.
November 19th, 34 year old Simon Buombiey Jacob of Harlan was arrested following a call for service in the 500 block of 12th street in Harlan. Simon was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Violation of a No Contact order. And 23 year old Nyagach Dech Chigach of Harlan was arrested following a call for service in the 500 block of 12th Street in Harlan. Chigach was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Violation of a No Contact Order.
24 year old Guillermo Dominic Hernandez of Denison was arrested on an active Shelby County Warrant. Hernandez was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Violation of a No Contact Order.
On November 17th, 58 year old Rodney Craig Musich of Kimballton was arrested on an active Shelby County Warrant. He was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Trespass 1st Offense. And 30 year old Philip Brian King of Harlan was charged with Burglary 3rd after an ongoing burglary investigation.
And on November 16th, 31 year old Crystal Jean Oliver of Harlan was arrested following a motor vehicle accident in the 2100 block of Rd M36. Oliver was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance – 2nd offense, Keeping Premises or Vehicle for Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, OWI 1st, and Failure to Maintain Control.
Disclaimer:
All arrests reported on the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page are arrests made by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office with charges originating from the Shelby County Sheriff's Office
If an arrest originated by another Agency (Iowa State Patrol, Division of Criminal Investigations, Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Department of Natural Resources, Ect.) but the individual was brought to the Shelby County Jail that arrest would not be reported on our page.
Additionally, a person arrested on an arrest warrant from another County and brought to the Shelby County Jail to be held until picked up by a different County/Agency would not be reported on this page.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Office.
IKM-Manning Superintendent Trevor Miller announces resignation -
(12-4-23) - At its regular meeting held Monday, November 27, 2023, the IKM-Manning School Board approved the resignation of Superintendent Trevor Miller, effective June 30, 2024. Miller started at IKM-Manning in 2017 as a shared superintendent with Exira-Elk Horn-Kimballton. Starting July 1, 2024, he will serve as the superintendent of Exira-EHK and move into a shared agreement with the Audubon Community School District. In his letter of resignation, Miller stated that he feels the district is in need of a fresh start. He will continue planning for the new gymnasium and classroom addition and look at other facility needs. He will work on the district’s budget and will assist the new superintendent in order to secure a smooth transition for the district.
Montgomery County News -
(12-4-23) - On Sunday, December 3rd, shortly after 2 pm, the Red Oak Police Department reported the arrest of Jordan Chase Shum on the charge of Harrassment 3rd Degree. Shum was arrested in the 100 block of West Coolbaugh in Red Oak. He was being held on $300 bond.
Omaha police arrest man in connection with fatal shooting of Council Bluffs teen - (12-4-23) – (Daily Nonpareil) - Omaha police have arrested a man in connection with the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Mauricio Chavez on Nov. 17. 18 year old Zadik Motino, is suspected of second-degree murder in the killing of Chavez, who was found suffering from a gunshot wound at the Sippin Sirens bar at 42nd and H streets around 11:15 p.m. that night, according to a news release from the Omaha Police Department. Chavez was taken to the Nebraska Medical Center with lifesaving measures in progress, but he was declared dead at the hospital. Motino is also suspected of use of a weapon to commit a felony and possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person and also had an active felony warrant out of Sarpy County, according to the release. The investigation remains ongoing.
Trial regarding murder of infant may be held in Pott County -
(12-4-23) – The trial of 26 year old Megan Staude of Norwalk could be held in Black Hawk or Pottawattamie County. Staude is accused of murdering her newborn son in February and the trial is being moved out of Warren County. On November 27th, the judge ruled in favor of a moton for her trial to be moved because of pretrial publicity. WHO-TV reports the judge said after seeing the responses to a juror questionnaire, it appeared that a significant portion of potential jurors had heard of the case and a significant portion of those jurors did not think they could be fair and impartial based on their previous knowledge of the case. The defense and the State have tentatively agreed for the case to be heard in mid-June 2024. The trial is expected to take 10 days to two weeks to complete. The judge also ruled in favor of Megan Staude’s motion to sever her case from the case of her father, Rodney Staude. He is also charged with first-degree murder. Rodney Staude’s case is on hold while a competency evaluation is completed. Court documents revealed in September that he planned to use diminished responsibility as a defense during his trial. Investigators say Megan Staude gave birth on February 24 at the family’s Norwalk home. According to court documents, she put the baby boy in a box and didn’t provide any care for him while he cried on and off for two days. After that Megan said and her father Rodney put the baby, who was still alive, into a plastic bag. Rodney allegedly discarded the baby’s body in a ditch. The newborn’s body was discovered on March 9, one day after Megan’s co-workers expressed concern about the health and safety of the baby to the Norwalk Police Department.
3 vehicle accident in Nebraska, Council Bluffs man killed -
(12-3-23) - 36 year old Tanner Mudra of Council Bluffs died in a 3-vehicle accident early Saturday morning on Interstate 80. The Nebraska State Patrol reports the crash happened at around 1 am, Saturday morning on westbound I-80 near the I Street exit in Omaha. The crash involved a semi, a Chevy Express van, and a Honda Accord. Mudra died at the scene. The driver of the Honda was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the semi was uninjured. Troopers said the Honda driver lost control and hit the concrete median. The semi driver then pulled over to help the driver of the Honda. The Chevy Express then hit the Honda, which had come to rest in a lane of travel and then hit the semi. The crash is still under investigation.
Farm Machinery falls through bridge – man trapped inside -
(12-1-23) – At 9:22 Friday morning, the Montgomery County Communications Center received a call that the driver of a piece of farm machinery had fallen through a bridge northwest of Stanton and that the driver was trapped and injured. Personnel from the Stanton Fire department, Red Oak Fire and Rescue and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office responded to 2055 Nature and located a John Deere F4365 dry floater was in the Tarkio river on it’s right side facing to the west. The driver, 53 year old Clint Means of Villisca was located in the operator’s station of the machine and was extricated by mechanical means and transported by medical helicopter to a trauma center for his injuries. New Cooperative owns the John Deere and damage is estimated at approximately $75,000, the bridge owned by Darren R Barkman of Stanton sustained an estimated $150,000 in damage. DNR was notified and did respond to determine and minimize the environmental impact of the fertilizer and diesel fuel that had spilled into the river as a result of this incident. Mr. Means is in serious but stable condition at the time of this report.
Calhoun County Sheriff's Update on Missing Person -
(12-1-23) - The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office responded to a call at 1710 23rd St in Jolley, on December 1st at 1:35 pm. 54 year old Mark Edward Reisberg from Rockwell City was found deceased in a Chrysler PT Cruiser at a wooded abandoned property with preliminary findings suggesting a single gunshot wound. Riesberg's body has been sent to the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner for autopsy. While investigations are ongoing, foul play is not suspected.
Group searching for missing Wall Lake man David Schultz reports covering nearly 50,000 acres -
(12-4-23) – Last Thursday evening, a group helping search for missing Wall Lake, Iowa truck driver David Schultz announced it had covered close to 50,000 acres. Since Saturday, November 25, the United Cajun Navy, a Louisiana-based nonprofit organization that performs search and rescue operations, has helped look throughout Sac County for the 53-year-old Schultz who was reportedly last heard from on the morning of Tuesday, November 21. Sarah Schultz, David Schultz's wife, said Tuesday afternoon, his truck was found northeast of Sac City, parked on northbound U.S. Highway 71, about five miles north of the old U.S. Highway 20 intersection. The truck was reportedly turned off but wasn't pulled over and the trailer was still loaded with young pigs. According to Jake Rowley, the Midwest team leader for the United Cajun Navy they have another 58,000 acres to cover before they can eliminate the areas along Highways 20 and 71. Friday, the group resumed search operations at 10:30 a.m. from its meeting location at the Sac City Motel in Sac City. Rowley also said in a Facebook post the group has seen volunteer numbers diminish before acknowledging they did keep a solid crew together that has covered a ton of ground. For the weekend, Rowley said the group was hoping for a big push to "finish our search area all the way to Highway 4." Since the married father of 10-year-old twin boys disappeared, volunteers have search for Schultz in Calhoun, Sac, Webster and Wright counties. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations is involved in the case as well as the Sac County Sheriff's Office and the Lake View Police Department.
Charges filed in death of Ida County 3 year old -
(12-2-23) - Officials with the Iowa Department of Public Safety reports at woman from Ida Grove was arrested on a Felony charge Thursday, following an investigation into the death of her 3 year old. Just before 8 pm, May 4th, EMT's from Battle Creek Ambulance responded to a residence in Battle Creek in regards to an unresponsive child. Jordan Reed was found to be not breathing. He was transported to Horn Memorial Hospital in Ida Grove and then transferred to Children's Hospital in Omaha where he died on May 5th. The Ida County Sheriff's Office, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner conducted an investigation. As result, Jordan's mother, 33 year old Billie Mosier of Ida Grove was charged with one count of child endangerment resulting in death, a Class B felony. Mosier turned herself in on Thursday and was released after posting bond.
Jury finds Coon Rapids man guilty of serious injury by vehicle -
(12-2-23) - (Carroll Broadcasting) - 48 year old William Ray Richards of Coon Rapids was found guilty this week of serious injury by vehicle while operating under the influence of methamphetamine. According to Carroll Broadcasting, the verdict was returned by the jury on Thursday. The charges stem from an August 11, 2022 crash on Highway 71 about 1.5 miles south of the Sac County line. Prosecutors showed Richard was intoxicated when he plowed into the rear of three vehicles that were stopped on the roadway for construction resulting in injuries to two drivers and one of their passengers. Richards was immediately taken into custody by the Carroll County Sheriff's Office and will remain there until sentencing. Each count carries a maximum of up to 5 years in prison and $7,500 in fines
Deadly crash east of Creston Friday night -
(12-2-23) - A collision east of Creston Friday night claimed the lives of two people from Nebraska. On Saturday afternoon, the Iowa State Patrol said the accident occurred around 7 pm Friday evening on Highway 34 as a 2008 Ford Explorer was eastbound on the highway. A 1996 Peterbilt semi that was stopped at a posted sign on Iris Avenue, proceeded to turn left onto Highway 34. The SUV collided with the grain hopper trailer the semi was pulling. The driver of the SUV, 17 year old Izabella M. Martinez and a front seat passenger in the vehicle, 18 year old Alex Conner Mauseth, both of Omaha, died at the scene. A third passenger in the Explorer, 14 year old Xavier Martinez of Omaha was injured and transported to the hospital by Creston EMS. The 14 year old was unrestrained. The driver of the semi, 63 year old Kelly Lee Jones of Creston was uninjured.
Carroll County Nurse Pleads Guilty to Stealing Controlled Substances -
(12-1-23) - The U-S Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa reports a nurse from northwest Iowa, who stole controlled substances from a life care center where she was employed, pled guilty Thursday in federal court in Sioux City. 32-year-old Cassandra Lynne Vonnahme, from Arcadia, entered a guilty plea to one count of acquiring a controlled substance by means of misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge, and one count of false statements relating to health care matters. Vonnahme had been scheduled to begin a jury trial on December 11, 2023. At the plea hearing, Vonnahme admitted that between November 2020 and December 2020, she diverted controlled substances and falsified related documents. The controlled substances Vonnahme stole and the records she falsified pertained to actual patients. Vonnahme was later convicted of burglary in Carroll County in 2021, where she stole controlled substances from a stranger’s home. Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a pre-sentence report is prepared. Vonnahme remains free on bond pending sentencing. Vonnahme faces a possible maximum sentence of 9 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 4- years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
Former Missouri Valley missile site leaves behind contaminated wells and land –
(12-1-23) – (KETV) - Landowners near Missouri Valley want to know if their land and water are safe because they’re living on a former missile site. The Air Force scrapped the “Atlas D Missile Site 3” decades ago, but safety questions remain. All of the structures that had been in operation in the 1950’s and 60’s, were demolished in 1988. The area was sold for residential and ag use in 2006. But in 2013, a contaminant called “TCE**” was detected in residential wells. The pandemic forced people in Missouri Valley to wait years to ask questions in person about the safety of their land, and water. On Thursday, the Army Corps of Engineers worked to provide them with some answers. The Army Corps of Engineers says out of 140 drinking water wells tested 25 wells had levels of TCE. The Corps of Engineers said they wanted to assure the affected landowners and others, that they’re only trying to help, by cleaning the contamination up and fixing related issues. Engineers says they hope to have an effective plan on how to do so sometime in the next three-years, likely between 2025 and 2026, with a final decision on a remedy sometime between 2026 and 2027.
Montgomery County News -
(12-1-23) - At about 2:45 Thursday afternoon, officers with the Red Oak Police Department were called to the 1100 block of E Reed Street for a report of theft. Upon investigation, officers arrested Ryan Wells for possession of paraphernalia and unlawful possession of prescription drugs. Ryan was transported to the Montgomery County Jail where he was held on $1000 bond.
(11-30-23) - At 3:15 Wednesday afternoon, a Montgomery County deputy stopped a car for speeding at Highway 34 and 8th Street. 36 year old Ashley LaMonte Roberson of Sioux City was arrested for Driving While Barred and Speeding. Also arrested was 40 year old Nicholas LaMonte Roberson of Sioux City on a Woodbury County Warrant for Contempt of Court. Both were being held on $1000 bond.
Shortly after 5 pm Wednesday, Red Oak Police Officers arrested 40 year old Douglas Ray Kirsch in the 800 block of N. Broadway Street on the charge of Theft 5th Degree. Kirsch was transported to the Montgomery County Jail and was being held on $300 bond.
And Red Oak Police officers arrested Bryce Michael McKinnon of Clarinda on Wednesday for Assault and for Interference with Official Acts, both Simple Misdemeanors. McKinnon was being held at the Montgomery County Jail on 300 bond.
Unauthorized vehicle causes lockdown at Offutt Air Force Base -
(12-1-23) Officials at Offutt said that the Air Force base went into lockdown late Thursday night after an "unauthorized vehicle" attempted to enter one of the gates. Around 10 p.m., the vehicle tried to enter the STRATCOM Gate at the base and the 55th Security Forces Squadron enabled the barrier system, according to a Facebook post from Offutt Air Force Base. The vehicle was forced to turn around and squadron defenders fired shots as the vehicle left the area, forcing the base to lock down "out of an abundance of caution," according to the Facebook post. The lockdown was lifted once the situation was cleared. The incident is under investigation.Officials are working with the Sarpy County Sheriff's Office and Bellevue Police regarding the incident, according to the base.
Clive Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud -
(12-1-23) – 47 year old Zachary James Flaherty of Clive enter a guilty plea Wednesday to a charge of wire fraud. According to the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa, Flaherty used his position as an insurance agent and annuity salesperson to defraud elderly individuals out of their retirement savings and other money. Flaherty admitted to engaging in a scheme to defraud some of his insurance clients, specifically that he intended to defraud some of his clients by making false statements to those clients to obtain financial benefits for himself to the detriment of his clients. Flaherty is scheduled to be sentenced on April 12, 2024, and faces a potential sentence of up to twenty years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence Flaherty will receive after considering the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
EMS in Shelby County now countywide system –
(11-30-23) – The Shelby County Emergency Medical Services will start on Friday. A meeting of the Shelby County Supervisors was held Wednesday morning and they approved the purchase of the Medivac building for $95,000. The building will be leased for $1,250 for one month or until the sale transaction of the building is finalized according to County Attorney Marcus Gross. The board also approved $27,550 in equipment from Medivac. All Medivac staff members have been hired by the county, which will include 7 paramedics, six full time and one on-call, and 4 EMTs. The Supervisors also approved an addendum to the Shelby County Ambulance Commission agreement, funding change of the 28E agreement to the county operated service, the approval of an Ambulance and Rescue Service Agreement, approving PCC as the EMS billing provider, setting up a bank account for EMS, too. A hearing date of January 2nd was set for an EMS and health insurance budget amendment. Tax funding for the county will begin in September 2024. The Harlan City Council also met in special session Wednesday to approve the Addendum to the Joint 28E agreement and also approval of using Harlan Fire and Rescue personnel as a transport service for countywide EMS.
Shelby County Fair needs your help for improvements -
(12-1-23) – Each year, the Shelby County Fairboard strives to put on a high quality, fun and educational fair experience for the entire community. In addition to the fair, the fairgrounds annually hosts many other events. Their goal is to continue to hold these great attractions, promote agriculture hands on learning experiences and improve the grounds and facilities for current and future generations. The fairboard would like you to help them improve. Improvements are planned in 4 phases:
Phase 1 will be the Ag Education Pavilion, Morgan Hall Addition and fencing. The Pavilion will feature baby animal barn during the fair, various ag related education displays, space for educational presentations, open air stage for outside presentations. The structure will offer agriculture based education throughout the year. Phase 2 will focus on bathhouse and storm shelter and purchase tables and chairs. Phase 3 will include livestock barn structures and an amphitheater and phase 4 will be an equine complex and grandstand replacement. To donate to the fairgrounds “Build Our Future with Us” project, make checks payable to Shelby County Fair Build Fund and mail to Shelby County Fair – “Build Our Future” Project – PO box 528 – Harlan, Iowa 51537.
Court-appointed monitor questions care at state-run Glenwood home -
(12-1-23) - The state-run Glenwood Resource Center for people with disabilities has allegedly failed to comply with all the requirements of a 2022 settlement agreement with the federal government. The agreement was intended to address claims by the U.S. Department of Justice that the state had violated the constitutional rights of Glenwood residents and exposed them to unreasonable harm. The Department of Justice alleged that harm stemmed from “uncontrolled and unsupervised experimentation” on residents, as well as inadequate physical and behavioral health care. Glenwood is run by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, the same state agency that’s charged with protecting the health and welfare of children and dependent adults in Iowa. The agency plans to close Glenwood by the end of 2024. The report indicates Glenwood has failed to meet numerous standards in two critical areas: the protection of residents who are being transitioned into community settings as Glenwood moves toward the planned shut-down in 2024, and the clinical and medical care that’s now being provided to residents, In the area of clinical and medical care, Glenwood was found to be in substantial compliance in only 15 of the 65 standards that were evaluated. In the area of discharge and transition planning, the home was judged to be in substantial compliance in only four of 34 standards.To be considered in substantial compliance with one of the agreed-upon standards, the home had to meet those standards in only 80% of the cases that were reviewed.
Iowa & Nebraska fail in how they handle prosecuting sex traffickers -
(12-1-23) - A non-profit group whose goal is to put an end to the sex trafficking of minors, gives Nebraska and Iowa an F for how the States handle prosecution of the crime. Shared Hope International handed out grades in six different categories. Iowa got a B- for how the state holds traffickers accountable and a C for having other options when it comes to victims testifying against traffickers. But in all other categories, the group claimed Iowa failed.
Nebraska did well in criminal provisions with a B but failed in four other categories including response to victims, tools for victims, and prevention and training. Shared hope said the lack of safe harbor laws plays a major factor in the grading. “Those laws are ones that protect survivors from being re-victimized in the criminal justice system and that also give victims access to services that can help them recover from that. Almost every state surrounding Iowa also got an F in the report.
Cundiff pleads guilty to insurance fraud -
(11-30-23) – On November 17th, 48 year old Christopher Robin Cundiff of Adel entered a plea of guilty to one count of Identity Theft. The Iowa Insurance Division also reports that Cundiff pled guilty to one count of Forgery. An investigation by the Iowa Insurance Division’s Fraud Bureau began in January of this year after they received information indicating Cundiff had presented a written document in support of payment from an insurer, knowing it contained false information. Dallas County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Cundiff on June 12th. Following his guilty plea, Cundiff was placed on supervised probation for two years and was fined a civil penalty of $1,710.
Accident on closed Guthrie County road -
11-30-23 Earlier today Sheriff’s officials in Guthrie County said there were no injuries following an accident that took place at around 5-p.m. on Nov. 22nd. According to the sheriff’s report, 23-year-old Cory James Nevitt, of Menlo, was driving a 2018 Dodge Ram 3500ST pickup on 310th Street. He turned onto Zephryr Trail, which is a gated and closed Guthrie County Road. As a result of his actions, the pickup went out of control and collided with a post holding one of the gates for the closed road. The pickup sustained $6,000 damage from the collision. It sustained additional damage when Nevitt tried to leave the scene. He was able to get away from the post and gate, but then backed into a post holding a private property owners’ gate. The Guthrie County Roads Dept. gate sustained about $407 damage. Damage to the Grinstead Farms post was estimated at $605. There were no citations issued.
Two news bird flu cases confirmed in Woodbury County -
(11-30-23) – The Iowa Department of Agriculture says two positive cases of Avian Influenza have been confirmed in Woodbury County. The cases are both in backyard mixed species flocks. There have now been 17 cases reported in the last two months. Commercial and backyard flock owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds. Sick birds or unusual deaths among birds should be immediately reported to state or federal officials. Biosecurity resources and best practices are available on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship website. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately. Possible cases must also be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present a public health concern. It remains safe to eat poultry products. As a reminder, consumers should always utilize the proper handling and cooking of eggs and poultry products, including cooking to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Mills County sheriff resigns -
(11-30-23) - Mills County needs a new sheriff. Meeting in special session Wednesday, the Mills County Board of Supervisors accepted the resignation of Travis Oetter. His last day will be Friday. He was elected in 2020. Chief Deputy Josh England will serve as interim sheriff. The board will now either fill the vacancy by appointment or call for a special election. Oetter was elected to his first four-year term as Sheriff in 2020. If the board chooses to appoint, County Attorney DeShawne Bird-Sell notes that the citizens could still call for a special election within 14 days of publishing their intent in the local paper. While no official decision was made on how they want to move forward, board members did consider the possibility of appointing England to fill out the remainder of Oetter's term, which expires in December 2024. However, appointing England would require a 60% buyout of at least his remaining vacation time due to shifting from a county employee to an elected official.
Photo courtesy of KETV
Des Moines Man Sentenced to Federal Prison -
(11-30-23) - The U-S Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa report 36 year old Fawnie Allen Avery of Des Moines was sentenced on November 16, 2023 to 13-and-a-half years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon. According to public court documents, Avery was on parole with the State of Iowa when he led officers with the Des Moines Police Department on a nighttime chase through residential neighborhoods after law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop of his vehicle. Avery crashed his vehicle, climbed out of his window, and attempted to flee on foot. A uniformed officer attempted to apprehend him. Avery struggled against the officer and pulled a firearm from his waistband. Avery pointed his firearm at a plain clothes officer and chambered a round in the firearm. Police were able to subdue Avery when a third officer arrived on scene. At sentencing, the District Court found that two Des Moines Police officers were victims of Avery’s offense because Avery pulled his gun during the struggle leading to his arrest, pointed his gun at an officer, and chambered a round in his gun. The Court also found that Avery recklessly created a substantial risk of injury or death during the vehicle chase prior to his arrest. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department.
Weekly Fuel Report -
(11-29-23) – As of today, the price of regular unleaded gasoline averaged $2.91 across Iowa according to AAA. Prices fell 6 cents from last week’s price and are down 33 cents from a year ago. The national average on Wednesday was $3.25, down 5 cents from last week’s price. Retail diesel prices in Iowa fell 10 cents this week with a statewide average of $4.07. One year ago, diesel prices averaged $4.88 in Iowa. The current Iowa diesel price is 16 cents lower than the national average of $4.23. Wholesale ethanol held steady and is currently priced at $2.16. Propane prices rose 1 cent with a statewide average of $1.55 per gallon. Home heating oil prices rose 4 cents, with a statewide average of $3.51 per gallon and Natural gas prices fell 7 cents at the Henry Hub reporting site and are currently priced at $2.82.
Animal waste hauler fined again for illegal field spreading –
(11-29-23) – (Southwest Iowa News Source) - A Neola company that transports and disposes of partially digested food from the stomachs of slaughtered animals was recently fined again for improperly spreading the material on fields, that according to the Iowa DNR. Feedlot Service Company of Neola and its owner, Fred Roane, agreed this month to pay a $7,000 fine for disposing of the material on terrain that is too hilly and too close to a water well. It’s the second time in two years that the department has fined the company. The company operates an open cattle feedlot with about 1,500 animals but also hauls paunch manure from a cattle slaughterhouse in Omaha. Roane stated that he hauls paunch manure from the Omaha facility almost daily, stockpiles it and periodically applies it to land to help enrich the soil. He admitted that some who live nearby do not like the smell of it and are quick to complain to the DNR. The DNR fined Feedlot Service Company in 2021 for spreading paunch manure on fields along with animal parts. The company was fined $9,000 then after the DNR received several complaints about those field applications, including that there were animal parts in addition to the stomach contents. It’s illegal in Iowa to dispose of animal carcasses or their parts by spreading them across fields. In February 2023, someone again made an anonymous complaint to the DNR that the company had again spread paunch on hilly terrain and too close to a well. The DNR investigated and confirmed that and noted paunch in a roadside ditch and along the embankment of the nearby creek. As part of the order, Roane again didn’t admit wrongdoing but agreed to abide by state regulations and pay a $7,000 fine and said that it was part of doing business. He also said passersby who see potential violations should contact him instead of the DNR so that he can fix the problems without an investigation and fines. Administrative fines are capped at $10,000 by state law. Higher amounts can by sought in court.
For farm news and market information, visit www.brownfieldnetwork.com.
Upcoming events -
For a $50 annual fee, the Boy Scout Troop 90B and 90G will place a 3 by 5 foot flag on a 10 foot pole in front of your house on five national holidays - Memorial Day, Flag Day, 4th of July, Labor Day and Veteran's Day. Subscription forms can be found online or in the Harlan Tribune.
The new 2023 100 page book on the history of Harlan's downtown is now available. This version provides more anecdotal stories of the building owners and/or mysteries surrounding these buildings, as well as over 400 photos and illustrations. The book is being sold at the Harlan Newspapers and the Shelby County Chamber office for $20 plus tax with proceeds going to fund tourism projects funded by the Hotel/Motel Tax.
Area American Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Wednesday, December 6th 8:30 to 2:30 pm - CAM High School in Anita
12:30 to 6 pm St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Dunlap
8 to 2 pm AHSTW High School in Avoca
Noon to 6 pm St. Mary's Parish Center in Panama
Thursday, December 7th 1 pm to 6 pm Neola Community Center
11:30 to 5:30 pm Treynor Community Center
Wednesday, December 13th noon to 6 pm Central Church in Carroll
Thursday, December 14th 8 am to 2 pm Central Church in Carroll
Friday, December 15th noon to 6 pm Sacred Heart Church in Manning
The Shelby County Historical Museum announces that they will host their annual Santa in the Cabins event on Thursday, December 7th. The event will take place from 5:00-7:00 at the Shelby County Historical Museum located at 1805 Morse Avenue in Harlan. The event features pictures with Santa in the historic McIntosh cabin, carnival games, snacks, and take-and-make crafts! This year’s theme is historical Christmas traditions, so the3 activities, snacks, and crafts, will all be tied to Christmas traditions that were brought to Shelby County from Denmark, Germany, England, Mexico, and the Netherlands!”
The event is free and open to the public, and a great way to launch the holiday season while learning about Shelby County’s history!
The Lied Irwin Public Library is looking for volunteers to share their Nativity sets with the community this holiday season. They would like to have them on display for their Holiday Open House on December 9th. You can start bringing them in to the library on November 28th. They will be displayed on top of the bookcases so they will be out of harms way.
Santa Claus is coming to town with the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, December 9th. Santa will be at the Elk Horn Library at 9 am; Irwin Library at 10 am; St. Joseph Parish Hall in Earling at 11 am; St. Mary's Parish Center in Panama at 1 pm; St. Mary's Parish Center in Portsmouth at 2 pm and the Old Post Office in Tennant at 3 pm.
The Magical Christmas Cookie Walk will be held Wednesday, December 13th from 11 to 1 at the Harlan First Methodist Church. Enjoy soup, sandwich, pie or dessert, eat in or take out, cookie boxes and pre-boxed cookies too. For pre-boxes, call Beth by December 12th at 579-1870 or the church office at 755-5172.
Iowa poets are invited to enter their best work in the annual Iowa Poetry Association contest underway January 1st through February 28th. Cash prizes are offered and the competition is open without entry fee to adults, college and high school students, as well as students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Prize winners and other poems receiving high ranking in each category will be published in the association’s annual anthology “Lyrical Iowa.” Some school poems are also selected to go on to national competition. There is no obligation for either membership or purchase to enter these contests. Postmark deadline is February 24, 2024. Complete rules are needed in order to enter the contest. Send a stamped self-addressed envelope to Marilyn Baszczynski 16096 320th Way, Earlham Iowa 50072.
The Shelby County Conservation Board and Iowa DNR are teaming up with the Harrison County Conservation Board to host a winter women’s event. This event will be held February 2 to 4 at Willow Lake Recreation Area. Some activities included in this workshop are ice fishing, archery, hiking or snowshoeing, candle making, stargazing, owl calling, winter survival, and wild game cooking. To sign up or see the full schedule please follow the link: https://conta.cc/3R6h1cF If you have any questions, please reach out to Christina at 712-744-3403.
(11-30-23) - The Shelby County Sheriff's Office received a phone call in the early morning hours of 11/30/23. Dispatch was advised that a black SUV with Nebraska License plate was parked on the side of the in the area of 1600th St. and Ironwood Rd. Additional information from the caller stated there was a male and female outside of the vehicle possibly attempting to wave them to stop. The caller did not stop but continued past and the male and female got into the vehicle and left the area. Responding deputies were advised the vehicle was heading west bound and responded to the area appropriately. A follow up call was then made after a duration of time that the vehicle actually went east bound. Deputies were unable to locate the vehicle and the plate given came back to a green Toyota Tacoma, not a black SUV. To the Public: If you see anything suspicious please call 911 or 712-755-5026 and give as much detail as possible to the dispatch center to assist with a proper response. Thank you for being vigilant and continue to call with anything suspicious.
Crop Insurance Discount Program - Sign-Up Began December 1-
(11-30-23) - Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the sign-up period for the Crop Insurance Discount Program will begin on Friday, December 1 and will close on Friday, January 26, 2024. To sign-up to participate, visit Apply.CleanWaterIowa.org. Offered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the program provides farmers and landowners who plant fall cover crops the opportunity to apply for a $5 per acre discount on their spring crop insurance premiums. Now in its seventh year, the Crop Insurance Discount Program has enrolled nearly 2,000 farmers who have seeded more than 1 million acres of cover crops to date. To qualify for the program, the cover crop acres cannot be enrolled in other state or United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) cost share programs. Farmers should visit their local USDA Service Center to learn about other cost share funding available to support the implementation of conservation practices. Some insurance policies, such as Whole-Farm Revenue Protection or those covered through written agreements, may be excluded. Participants must follow all existing farming practices required by their respective policy and work with their insurance agencies to maintain eligibility.
Area American Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Monday, December 4th Noon to 6 pm St. Joseph's Hall in Earling
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry invites you to shop and win! For every $25 you spend at participating businesses - look for the "Let's Keep the Cheer Here" sign from December 4th through the 22nd, you will receive a raffle ticket with a limit of 10 tickets per purchase. The drawing will be held on Tuesday, January 2nd.
The Mobile Drive-Thru Food Pantry sponsored by the Foodbank for the Heartland and Harlan Lions Club will be held Monday, December 4th, starting at 4:30 pm at Veteran’s Memorial Building in Harlan. There will be ONLY 1 DRIVE THRU LANE ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE VETS BUILDING. NO WALK-INS. You will receive 1 community box, 1 box of produce, 1 loaf of bread and 1 package meat product, donated by Monogram Foods. Limit two sets of food per vehicle. You may go through the line a second time. If you have any questions, call Sharon at 579-0286.
The GriefShare Seminar/Support Group will meet on Mondays, through December 11th from 5:30 to 7 pm at the First Baptist Church on Chatburn Avenue in Harlan. For more information, call the church office at 755-2711.
Crawford County Memorial Hospital is sponsoring a free holiday meal for senior citizens in Crawford County On Monday, December 4th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m at the Denison high school cafeteria. This meal is also free to driving companions of senior citizens. This year they will also have a drive-thru option for pick up at Circle Drive from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This year they are serving pork loin, mashed potatoes, gravy, dinner rolls, and dessert.
The Shelby County Board of Supervisors will meet at 9 am, Tuesday morning at the courthouse. Among items to be discussed is approval of Homestead applications; Internal loan set hearing Resolution 2023-49; a Secondary Roads report including utility permit with Nishnabotna Valley REC 2023-12-1, Resolution 2023-51 – a resolution awarding the contract for a project in Shelby County and authorizing the Shelby County Engineer to execute the contract, Resolution 2023-52 a resolution awarding the contract for a project in Shelby County and Authorizing the Shelby County Engineer to Execute the contract; consideration of acceptance of County Engineers Letter of Resignation; Supervisor committee reports; possible closed session – evaluation or promotion of Assistant Engineer.
The Harlan City Council will meet in regular session Tuesday, December 5th at 5:15. Among items on the agenda is a public hearing regarding the application with the Community Development Block Grant program for financial assistance for the Wastewater System Improvement project and a motion to close the hearing. Resolution No. 2549, a resolution to apply for Financial Assistance with Community Development Block Grant program for the Wastewater System Improvement Project. Resolution No 2550, a resolution of appreciation, years of service; receive and file the Airport Commission Meeting minutes from November 22nd, including reviewing federal airport improvement program and resolution No. 2551 – a resolution accepting completion of the airport reconstruction T-Hangar Taxilanes Project; review the memorandum of understanding for use of County Ambulance; receive and file personnel and finance committee meeting minutes from December 1st including reviewing the recommendation to accept retirement of City Clerk/Finance Director, approve the job description and advertise for the position; review the recommendation to update the holiday benefits effective December 6th, to include an addition half day on Christmas Eve and an additional half day on New Years Eve and a new vacation schedule, effective January 1, 2024 and review the recommendation to change city hall hours to 8 to 4:30 effective December 6th. There will also be the City Administrator’s Report and the Mayor’s Report.
Ballpark to Ballpark Trail Donation Drive -
(11-17-23) – The Shelby County Trails, a 501(C)3 organization, is doing a donation drive through December 27th to obtain matching funds for the State Recreational Trails Grant that was received in October. There were 44 applicants for the state grant and the Ballpark-to-Ballpark trail was one of only 7 applications to receive funding. Panama Transfer has pledged to match all donations received up to a maximum of $25,000. All donations are tax deductible. Donations may be dropped off at the Shelby Chamber Office.
GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON -
(11-28-23) - Festive parties, family gatherings,shopping for loved ones, giving blood? Make giving the gift of life part of your holiday traditions this year! The winter weather and hustle and bustle of the season often keeps people away
from LifeServe Blood Center’s Donor Centers and mobile blood drives, but the warmth a lifesaving donation can bring is worth experiencing. Make plans today to schedule an appointment at a location near you.
Manilla Community Blood Drive, 12/04/2023 from 12:00 pm - 04:20 pm at 550 Main St., Manilla.
Denison Community Blood Drive, 12/11/2023 from 12:15 pm - 05:45 pm at 100 Medical Parkway, Denison.
Schedule a blood donation appointment online at lifeservebloodcenter.org or call 800.287.4903.
Fill the trailer is an event that helps Operation Backpack. Operation Backpack is a program that Harlan Community Student Council runs that helps many local students be able to eat when the weekend comes around. The student Council will be at the Fareway parking lot, Saturday. December 9th from 8 to 4. They are looking for canned goods, and non-perishable items. If anyone has any questions, feel free to contact Sabre Schmitz at 579-4967.
Harlan Fire Called out Saturday afternoon –
(12-4-23) – The Harlan Fire Department was called out Saturday afternoon to a possible structure fire at Westridge Apartments. Upon arrival, it was found that someone thought they had smelled something and pulled the fire alarm. The department searched every apartment in the complex and found nothing and returned to the station.
Arrest Report: Shelby County Sheriff’s Office
(12-4-23) – The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office has released their arrest report for the last half of November.
On November 29th, 69 year old Gerard August Rueschenberg of Harlan was arrested on an active Shelby County Warrant for Failure to appear. He was transported to the Shelby County Jail.
November 27th, 40 year old Brandon Glenn Billings of Harlan was arrested following a traffic stop in the 1200 block of College Blvd in Harlan. Billings was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Driving while License is Revoked and Failure to Provide Proof of Financial Liability.
22 year old Avery Jon Zenk of Denison was arrested November 26th, on an active Shelby County Warrant for Domestic Abuse Assault. Zenk was transported to the Shelby County Jail.
On November 25th, 53 year old Craig John Stork of Harlan was arrested following an investigation of a possible motor vehicle accident in the area of 7th and Court Street in Harlan. Stork was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with OWI 1st.
There were 2 arrests on November 22nd. 58 year old Douglas Duane Curtis of Harlan was arrested following a traffic stop in the 1200 block of Hawkeye Avenue in Harlan. Curtis was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Driving Under Suspension and Interference with Official Acts. And 37 year old Bryan Joseph Schuemann of Harlan was arrested following a traffic stop in the 1100 block of Willow Street. Schuemann was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Driving Under Suspension, Keeping Premises or Vehicle for Controlled Substance, Possession of Controlled Substance – Marijuana, 3rd or Subsequent Offense, Possession of Contraband in a Correctional Institution and Failure to Provide Proof of Financial Liability.
On November 21st,, 46 year old Laura Ann Traufler of Harlan was arrested following an investigation. Traufler was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Theft 2nd, Possession of Controlled Substance 3rd or Subsequent Offense and Possession of Controlled Substance, Marijuana, 3rd or subsequent offense. Also on the 21st, 31 year old Drew Ashton Gagnon of Red Oak was arrested on an active Shelby County Warrant for Violation of Probation.
49 year old Darin Lee Turner of Harlan was arrested on November 20th following a traffic stop near Cyclone Avenue and 19th Street in Harlan. Turner was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with OWI 1st.
November 19th, 34 year old Simon Buombiey Jacob of Harlan was arrested following a call for service in the 500 block of 12th street in Harlan. Simon was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Violation of a No Contact order. And 23 year old Nyagach Dech Chigach of Harlan was arrested following a call for service in the 500 block of 12th Street in Harlan. Chigach was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Violation of a No Contact Order.
24 year old Guillermo Dominic Hernandez of Denison was arrested on an active Shelby County Warrant. Hernandez was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Violation of a No Contact Order.
On November 17th, 58 year old Rodney Craig Musich of Kimballton was arrested on an active Shelby County Warrant. He was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Trespass 1st Offense. And 30 year old Philip Brian King of Harlan was charged with Burglary 3rd after an ongoing burglary investigation.
And on November 16th, 31 year old Crystal Jean Oliver of Harlan was arrested following a motor vehicle accident in the 2100 block of Rd M36. Oliver was transported to the Shelby County Jail and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance – 2nd offense, Keeping Premises or Vehicle for Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, OWI 1st, and Failure to Maintain Control.
Disclaimer:
All arrests reported on the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page are arrests made by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office with charges originating from the Shelby County Sheriff's Office
If an arrest originated by another Agency (Iowa State Patrol, Division of Criminal Investigations, Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Department of Natural Resources, Ect.) but the individual was brought to the Shelby County Jail that arrest would not be reported on our page.
Additionally, a person arrested on an arrest warrant from another County and brought to the Shelby County Jail to be held until picked up by a different County/Agency would not be reported on this page.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Office.
IKM-Manning Superintendent Trevor Miller announces resignation -
(12-4-23) - At its regular meeting held Monday, November 27, 2023, the IKM-Manning School Board approved the resignation of Superintendent Trevor Miller, effective June 30, 2024. Miller started at IKM-Manning in 2017 as a shared superintendent with Exira-Elk Horn-Kimballton. Starting July 1, 2024, he will serve as the superintendent of Exira-EHK and move into a shared agreement with the Audubon Community School District. In his letter of resignation, Miller stated that he feels the district is in need of a fresh start. He will continue planning for the new gymnasium and classroom addition and look at other facility needs. He will work on the district’s budget and will assist the new superintendent in order to secure a smooth transition for the district.
Montgomery County News -
(12-4-23) - On Sunday, December 3rd, shortly after 2 pm, the Red Oak Police Department reported the arrest of Jordan Chase Shum on the charge of Harrassment 3rd Degree. Shum was arrested in the 100 block of West Coolbaugh in Red Oak. He was being held on $300 bond.
Omaha police arrest man in connection with fatal shooting of Council Bluffs teen - (12-4-23) – (Daily Nonpareil) - Omaha police have arrested a man in connection with the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Mauricio Chavez on Nov. 17. 18 year old Zadik Motino, is suspected of second-degree murder in the killing of Chavez, who was found suffering from a gunshot wound at the Sippin Sirens bar at 42nd and H streets around 11:15 p.m. that night, according to a news release from the Omaha Police Department. Chavez was taken to the Nebraska Medical Center with lifesaving measures in progress, but he was declared dead at the hospital. Motino is also suspected of use of a weapon to commit a felony and possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person and also had an active felony warrant out of Sarpy County, according to the release. The investigation remains ongoing.
Trial regarding murder of infant may be held in Pott County -
(12-4-23) – The trial of 26 year old Megan Staude of Norwalk could be held in Black Hawk or Pottawattamie County. Staude is accused of murdering her newborn son in February and the trial is being moved out of Warren County. On November 27th, the judge ruled in favor of a moton for her trial to be moved because of pretrial publicity. WHO-TV reports the judge said after seeing the responses to a juror questionnaire, it appeared that a significant portion of potential jurors had heard of the case and a significant portion of those jurors did not think they could be fair and impartial based on their previous knowledge of the case. The defense and the State have tentatively agreed for the case to be heard in mid-June 2024. The trial is expected to take 10 days to two weeks to complete. The judge also ruled in favor of Megan Staude’s motion to sever her case from the case of her father, Rodney Staude. He is also charged with first-degree murder. Rodney Staude’s case is on hold while a competency evaluation is completed. Court documents revealed in September that he planned to use diminished responsibility as a defense during his trial. Investigators say Megan Staude gave birth on February 24 at the family’s Norwalk home. According to court documents, she put the baby boy in a box and didn’t provide any care for him while he cried on and off for two days. After that Megan said and her father Rodney put the baby, who was still alive, into a plastic bag. Rodney allegedly discarded the baby’s body in a ditch. The newborn’s body was discovered on March 9, one day after Megan’s co-workers expressed concern about the health and safety of the baby to the Norwalk Police Department.
3 vehicle accident in Nebraska, Council Bluffs man killed -
(12-3-23) - 36 year old Tanner Mudra of Council Bluffs died in a 3-vehicle accident early Saturday morning on Interstate 80. The Nebraska State Patrol reports the crash happened at around 1 am, Saturday morning on westbound I-80 near the I Street exit in Omaha. The crash involved a semi, a Chevy Express van, and a Honda Accord. Mudra died at the scene. The driver of the Honda was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the semi was uninjured. Troopers said the Honda driver lost control and hit the concrete median. The semi driver then pulled over to help the driver of the Honda. The Chevy Express then hit the Honda, which had come to rest in a lane of travel and then hit the semi. The crash is still under investigation.
Farm Machinery falls through bridge – man trapped inside -
(12-1-23) – At 9:22 Friday morning, the Montgomery County Communications Center received a call that the driver of a piece of farm machinery had fallen through a bridge northwest of Stanton and that the driver was trapped and injured. Personnel from the Stanton Fire department, Red Oak Fire and Rescue and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office responded to 2055 Nature and located a John Deere F4365 dry floater was in the Tarkio river on it’s right side facing to the west. The driver, 53 year old Clint Means of Villisca was located in the operator’s station of the machine and was extricated by mechanical means and transported by medical helicopter to a trauma center for his injuries. New Cooperative owns the John Deere and damage is estimated at approximately $75,000, the bridge owned by Darren R Barkman of Stanton sustained an estimated $150,000 in damage. DNR was notified and did respond to determine and minimize the environmental impact of the fertilizer and diesel fuel that had spilled into the river as a result of this incident. Mr. Means is in serious but stable condition at the time of this report.
Calhoun County Sheriff's Update on Missing Person -
(12-1-23) - The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office responded to a call at 1710 23rd St in Jolley, on December 1st at 1:35 pm. 54 year old Mark Edward Reisberg from Rockwell City was found deceased in a Chrysler PT Cruiser at a wooded abandoned property with preliminary findings suggesting a single gunshot wound. Riesberg's body has been sent to the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner for autopsy. While investigations are ongoing, foul play is not suspected.
Group searching for missing Wall Lake man David Schultz reports covering nearly 50,000 acres -
(12-4-23) – Last Thursday evening, a group helping search for missing Wall Lake, Iowa truck driver David Schultz announced it had covered close to 50,000 acres. Since Saturday, November 25, the United Cajun Navy, a Louisiana-based nonprofit organization that performs search and rescue operations, has helped look throughout Sac County for the 53-year-old Schultz who was reportedly last heard from on the morning of Tuesday, November 21. Sarah Schultz, David Schultz's wife, said Tuesday afternoon, his truck was found northeast of Sac City, parked on northbound U.S. Highway 71, about five miles north of the old U.S. Highway 20 intersection. The truck was reportedly turned off but wasn't pulled over and the trailer was still loaded with young pigs. According to Jake Rowley, the Midwest team leader for the United Cajun Navy they have another 58,000 acres to cover before they can eliminate the areas along Highways 20 and 71. Friday, the group resumed search operations at 10:30 a.m. from its meeting location at the Sac City Motel in Sac City. Rowley also said in a Facebook post the group has seen volunteer numbers diminish before acknowledging they did keep a solid crew together that has covered a ton of ground. For the weekend, Rowley said the group was hoping for a big push to "finish our search area all the way to Highway 4." Since the married father of 10-year-old twin boys disappeared, volunteers have search for Schultz in Calhoun, Sac, Webster and Wright counties. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations is involved in the case as well as the Sac County Sheriff's Office and the Lake View Police Department.
Charges filed in death of Ida County 3 year old -
(12-2-23) - Officials with the Iowa Department of Public Safety reports at woman from Ida Grove was arrested on a Felony charge Thursday, following an investigation into the death of her 3 year old. Just before 8 pm, May 4th, EMT's from Battle Creek Ambulance responded to a residence in Battle Creek in regards to an unresponsive child. Jordan Reed was found to be not breathing. He was transported to Horn Memorial Hospital in Ida Grove and then transferred to Children's Hospital in Omaha where he died on May 5th. The Ida County Sheriff's Office, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner conducted an investigation. As result, Jordan's mother, 33 year old Billie Mosier of Ida Grove was charged with one count of child endangerment resulting in death, a Class B felony. Mosier turned herself in on Thursday and was released after posting bond.
Jury finds Coon Rapids man guilty of serious injury by vehicle -
(12-2-23) - (Carroll Broadcasting) - 48 year old William Ray Richards of Coon Rapids was found guilty this week of serious injury by vehicle while operating under the influence of methamphetamine. According to Carroll Broadcasting, the verdict was returned by the jury on Thursday. The charges stem from an August 11, 2022 crash on Highway 71 about 1.5 miles south of the Sac County line. Prosecutors showed Richard was intoxicated when he plowed into the rear of three vehicles that were stopped on the roadway for construction resulting in injuries to two drivers and one of their passengers. Richards was immediately taken into custody by the Carroll County Sheriff's Office and will remain there until sentencing. Each count carries a maximum of up to 5 years in prison and $7,500 in fines
Deadly crash east of Creston Friday night -
(12-2-23) - A collision east of Creston Friday night claimed the lives of two people from Nebraska. On Saturday afternoon, the Iowa State Patrol said the accident occurred around 7 pm Friday evening on Highway 34 as a 2008 Ford Explorer was eastbound on the highway. A 1996 Peterbilt semi that was stopped at a posted sign on Iris Avenue, proceeded to turn left onto Highway 34. The SUV collided with the grain hopper trailer the semi was pulling. The driver of the SUV, 17 year old Izabella M. Martinez and a front seat passenger in the vehicle, 18 year old Alex Conner Mauseth, both of Omaha, died at the scene. A third passenger in the Explorer, 14 year old Xavier Martinez of Omaha was injured and transported to the hospital by Creston EMS. The 14 year old was unrestrained. The driver of the semi, 63 year old Kelly Lee Jones of Creston was uninjured.
Carroll County Nurse Pleads Guilty to Stealing Controlled Substances -
(12-1-23) - The U-S Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa reports a nurse from northwest Iowa, who stole controlled substances from a life care center where she was employed, pled guilty Thursday in federal court in Sioux City. 32-year-old Cassandra Lynne Vonnahme, from Arcadia, entered a guilty plea to one count of acquiring a controlled substance by means of misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge, and one count of false statements relating to health care matters. Vonnahme had been scheduled to begin a jury trial on December 11, 2023. At the plea hearing, Vonnahme admitted that between November 2020 and December 2020, she diverted controlled substances and falsified related documents. The controlled substances Vonnahme stole and the records she falsified pertained to actual patients. Vonnahme was later convicted of burglary in Carroll County in 2021, where she stole controlled substances from a stranger’s home. Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a pre-sentence report is prepared. Vonnahme remains free on bond pending sentencing. Vonnahme faces a possible maximum sentence of 9 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 4- years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
Former Missouri Valley missile site leaves behind contaminated wells and land –
(12-1-23) – (KETV) - Landowners near Missouri Valley want to know if their land and water are safe because they’re living on a former missile site. The Air Force scrapped the “Atlas D Missile Site 3” decades ago, but safety questions remain. All of the structures that had been in operation in the 1950’s and 60’s, were demolished in 1988. The area was sold for residential and ag use in 2006. But in 2013, a contaminant called “TCE**” was detected in residential wells. The pandemic forced people in Missouri Valley to wait years to ask questions in person about the safety of their land, and water. On Thursday, the Army Corps of Engineers worked to provide them with some answers. The Army Corps of Engineers says out of 140 drinking water wells tested 25 wells had levels of TCE. The Corps of Engineers said they wanted to assure the affected landowners and others, that they’re only trying to help, by cleaning the contamination up and fixing related issues. Engineers says they hope to have an effective plan on how to do so sometime in the next three-years, likely between 2025 and 2026, with a final decision on a remedy sometime between 2026 and 2027.
Montgomery County News -
(12-1-23) - At about 2:45 Thursday afternoon, officers with the Red Oak Police Department were called to the 1100 block of E Reed Street for a report of theft. Upon investigation, officers arrested Ryan Wells for possession of paraphernalia and unlawful possession of prescription drugs. Ryan was transported to the Montgomery County Jail where he was held on $1000 bond.
(11-30-23) - At 3:15 Wednesday afternoon, a Montgomery County deputy stopped a car for speeding at Highway 34 and 8th Street. 36 year old Ashley LaMonte Roberson of Sioux City was arrested for Driving While Barred and Speeding. Also arrested was 40 year old Nicholas LaMonte Roberson of Sioux City on a Woodbury County Warrant for Contempt of Court. Both were being held on $1000 bond.
Shortly after 5 pm Wednesday, Red Oak Police Officers arrested 40 year old Douglas Ray Kirsch in the 800 block of N. Broadway Street on the charge of Theft 5th Degree. Kirsch was transported to the Montgomery County Jail and was being held on $300 bond.
And Red Oak Police officers arrested Bryce Michael McKinnon of Clarinda on Wednesday for Assault and for Interference with Official Acts, both Simple Misdemeanors. McKinnon was being held at the Montgomery County Jail on 300 bond.
Unauthorized vehicle causes lockdown at Offutt Air Force Base -
(12-1-23) Officials at Offutt said that the Air Force base went into lockdown late Thursday night after an "unauthorized vehicle" attempted to enter one of the gates. Around 10 p.m., the vehicle tried to enter the STRATCOM Gate at the base and the 55th Security Forces Squadron enabled the barrier system, according to a Facebook post from Offutt Air Force Base. The vehicle was forced to turn around and squadron defenders fired shots as the vehicle left the area, forcing the base to lock down "out of an abundance of caution," according to the Facebook post. The lockdown was lifted once the situation was cleared. The incident is under investigation.Officials are working with the Sarpy County Sheriff's Office and Bellevue Police regarding the incident, according to the base.
Clive Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud -
(12-1-23) – 47 year old Zachary James Flaherty of Clive enter a guilty plea Wednesday to a charge of wire fraud. According to the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa, Flaherty used his position as an insurance agent and annuity salesperson to defraud elderly individuals out of their retirement savings and other money. Flaherty admitted to engaging in a scheme to defraud some of his insurance clients, specifically that he intended to defraud some of his clients by making false statements to those clients to obtain financial benefits for himself to the detriment of his clients. Flaherty is scheduled to be sentenced on April 12, 2024, and faces a potential sentence of up to twenty years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence Flaherty will receive after considering the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
EMS in Shelby County now countywide system –
(11-30-23) – The Shelby County Emergency Medical Services will start on Friday. A meeting of the Shelby County Supervisors was held Wednesday morning and they approved the purchase of the Medivac building for $95,000. The building will be leased for $1,250 for one month or until the sale transaction of the building is finalized according to County Attorney Marcus Gross. The board also approved $27,550 in equipment from Medivac. All Medivac staff members have been hired by the county, which will include 7 paramedics, six full time and one on-call, and 4 EMTs. The Supervisors also approved an addendum to the Shelby County Ambulance Commission agreement, funding change of the 28E agreement to the county operated service, the approval of an Ambulance and Rescue Service Agreement, approving PCC as the EMS billing provider, setting up a bank account for EMS, too. A hearing date of January 2nd was set for an EMS and health insurance budget amendment. Tax funding for the county will begin in September 2024. The Harlan City Council also met in special session Wednesday to approve the Addendum to the Joint 28E agreement and also approval of using Harlan Fire and Rescue personnel as a transport service for countywide EMS.
Shelby County Fair needs your help for improvements -
(12-1-23) – Each year, the Shelby County Fairboard strives to put on a high quality, fun and educational fair experience for the entire community. In addition to the fair, the fairgrounds annually hosts many other events. Their goal is to continue to hold these great attractions, promote agriculture hands on learning experiences and improve the grounds and facilities for current and future generations. The fairboard would like you to help them improve. Improvements are planned in 4 phases:
Phase 1 will be the Ag Education Pavilion, Morgan Hall Addition and fencing. The Pavilion will feature baby animal barn during the fair, various ag related education displays, space for educational presentations, open air stage for outside presentations. The structure will offer agriculture based education throughout the year. Phase 2 will focus on bathhouse and storm shelter and purchase tables and chairs. Phase 3 will include livestock barn structures and an amphitheater and phase 4 will be an equine complex and grandstand replacement. To donate to the fairgrounds “Build Our Future with Us” project, make checks payable to Shelby County Fair Build Fund and mail to Shelby County Fair – “Build Our Future” Project – PO box 528 – Harlan, Iowa 51537.
Court-appointed monitor questions care at state-run Glenwood home -
(12-1-23) - The state-run Glenwood Resource Center for people with disabilities has allegedly failed to comply with all the requirements of a 2022 settlement agreement with the federal government. The agreement was intended to address claims by the U.S. Department of Justice that the state had violated the constitutional rights of Glenwood residents and exposed them to unreasonable harm. The Department of Justice alleged that harm stemmed from “uncontrolled and unsupervised experimentation” on residents, as well as inadequate physical and behavioral health care. Glenwood is run by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, the same state agency that’s charged with protecting the health and welfare of children and dependent adults in Iowa. The agency plans to close Glenwood by the end of 2024. The report indicates Glenwood has failed to meet numerous standards in two critical areas: the protection of residents who are being transitioned into community settings as Glenwood moves toward the planned shut-down in 2024, and the clinical and medical care that’s now being provided to residents, In the area of clinical and medical care, Glenwood was found to be in substantial compliance in only 15 of the 65 standards that were evaluated. In the area of discharge and transition planning, the home was judged to be in substantial compliance in only four of 34 standards.To be considered in substantial compliance with one of the agreed-upon standards, the home had to meet those standards in only 80% of the cases that were reviewed.
Iowa & Nebraska fail in how they handle prosecuting sex traffickers -
(12-1-23) - A non-profit group whose goal is to put an end to the sex trafficking of minors, gives Nebraska and Iowa an F for how the States handle prosecution of the crime. Shared Hope International handed out grades in six different categories. Iowa got a B- for how the state holds traffickers accountable and a C for having other options when it comes to victims testifying against traffickers. But in all other categories, the group claimed Iowa failed.
Nebraska did well in criminal provisions with a B but failed in four other categories including response to victims, tools for victims, and prevention and training. Shared hope said the lack of safe harbor laws plays a major factor in the grading. “Those laws are ones that protect survivors from being re-victimized in the criminal justice system and that also give victims access to services that can help them recover from that. Almost every state surrounding Iowa also got an F in the report.
Cundiff pleads guilty to insurance fraud -
(11-30-23) – On November 17th, 48 year old Christopher Robin Cundiff of Adel entered a plea of guilty to one count of Identity Theft. The Iowa Insurance Division also reports that Cundiff pled guilty to one count of Forgery. An investigation by the Iowa Insurance Division’s Fraud Bureau began in January of this year after they received information indicating Cundiff had presented a written document in support of payment from an insurer, knowing it contained false information. Dallas County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Cundiff on June 12th. Following his guilty plea, Cundiff was placed on supervised probation for two years and was fined a civil penalty of $1,710.
Accident on closed Guthrie County road -
11-30-23 Earlier today Sheriff’s officials in Guthrie County said there were no injuries following an accident that took place at around 5-p.m. on Nov. 22nd. According to the sheriff’s report, 23-year-old Cory James Nevitt, of Menlo, was driving a 2018 Dodge Ram 3500ST pickup on 310th Street. He turned onto Zephryr Trail, which is a gated and closed Guthrie County Road. As a result of his actions, the pickup went out of control and collided with a post holding one of the gates for the closed road. The pickup sustained $6,000 damage from the collision. It sustained additional damage when Nevitt tried to leave the scene. He was able to get away from the post and gate, but then backed into a post holding a private property owners’ gate. The Guthrie County Roads Dept. gate sustained about $407 damage. Damage to the Grinstead Farms post was estimated at $605. There were no citations issued.
Two news bird flu cases confirmed in Woodbury County -
(11-30-23) – The Iowa Department of Agriculture says two positive cases of Avian Influenza have been confirmed in Woodbury County. The cases are both in backyard mixed species flocks. There have now been 17 cases reported in the last two months. Commercial and backyard flock owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds. Sick birds or unusual deaths among birds should be immediately reported to state or federal officials. Biosecurity resources and best practices are available on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship website. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately. Possible cases must also be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present a public health concern. It remains safe to eat poultry products. As a reminder, consumers should always utilize the proper handling and cooking of eggs and poultry products, including cooking to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Mills County sheriff resigns -
(11-30-23) - Mills County needs a new sheriff. Meeting in special session Wednesday, the Mills County Board of Supervisors accepted the resignation of Travis Oetter. His last day will be Friday. He was elected in 2020. Chief Deputy Josh England will serve as interim sheriff. The board will now either fill the vacancy by appointment or call for a special election. Oetter was elected to his first four-year term as Sheriff in 2020. If the board chooses to appoint, County Attorney DeShawne Bird-Sell notes that the citizens could still call for a special election within 14 days of publishing their intent in the local paper. While no official decision was made on how they want to move forward, board members did consider the possibility of appointing England to fill out the remainder of Oetter's term, which expires in December 2024. However, appointing England would require a 60% buyout of at least his remaining vacation time due to shifting from a county employee to an elected official.
Photo courtesy of KETV
Des Moines Man Sentenced to Federal Prison -
(11-30-23) - The U-S Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa report 36 year old Fawnie Allen Avery of Des Moines was sentenced on November 16, 2023 to 13-and-a-half years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon. According to public court documents, Avery was on parole with the State of Iowa when he led officers with the Des Moines Police Department on a nighttime chase through residential neighborhoods after law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop of his vehicle. Avery crashed his vehicle, climbed out of his window, and attempted to flee on foot. A uniformed officer attempted to apprehend him. Avery struggled against the officer and pulled a firearm from his waistband. Avery pointed his firearm at a plain clothes officer and chambered a round in the firearm. Police were able to subdue Avery when a third officer arrived on scene. At sentencing, the District Court found that two Des Moines Police officers were victims of Avery’s offense because Avery pulled his gun during the struggle leading to his arrest, pointed his gun at an officer, and chambered a round in his gun. The Court also found that Avery recklessly created a substantial risk of injury or death during the vehicle chase prior to his arrest. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department.
Weekly Fuel Report -
(11-29-23) – As of today, the price of regular unleaded gasoline averaged $2.91 across Iowa according to AAA. Prices fell 6 cents from last week’s price and are down 33 cents from a year ago. The national average on Wednesday was $3.25, down 5 cents from last week’s price. Retail diesel prices in Iowa fell 10 cents this week with a statewide average of $4.07. One year ago, diesel prices averaged $4.88 in Iowa. The current Iowa diesel price is 16 cents lower than the national average of $4.23. Wholesale ethanol held steady and is currently priced at $2.16. Propane prices rose 1 cent with a statewide average of $1.55 per gallon. Home heating oil prices rose 4 cents, with a statewide average of $3.51 per gallon and Natural gas prices fell 7 cents at the Henry Hub reporting site and are currently priced at $2.82.
Animal waste hauler fined again for illegal field spreading –
(11-29-23) – (Southwest Iowa News Source) - A Neola company that transports and disposes of partially digested food from the stomachs of slaughtered animals was recently fined again for improperly spreading the material on fields, that according to the Iowa DNR. Feedlot Service Company of Neola and its owner, Fred Roane, agreed this month to pay a $7,000 fine for disposing of the material on terrain that is too hilly and too close to a water well. It’s the second time in two years that the department has fined the company. The company operates an open cattle feedlot with about 1,500 animals but also hauls paunch manure from a cattle slaughterhouse in Omaha. Roane stated that he hauls paunch manure from the Omaha facility almost daily, stockpiles it and periodically applies it to land to help enrich the soil. He admitted that some who live nearby do not like the smell of it and are quick to complain to the DNR. The DNR fined Feedlot Service Company in 2021 for spreading paunch manure on fields along with animal parts. The company was fined $9,000 then after the DNR received several complaints about those field applications, including that there were animal parts in addition to the stomach contents. It’s illegal in Iowa to dispose of animal carcasses or their parts by spreading them across fields. In February 2023, someone again made an anonymous complaint to the DNR that the company had again spread paunch on hilly terrain and too close to a well. The DNR investigated and confirmed that and noted paunch in a roadside ditch and along the embankment of the nearby creek. As part of the order, Roane again didn’t admit wrongdoing but agreed to abide by state regulations and pay a $7,000 fine and said that it was part of doing business. He also said passersby who see potential violations should contact him instead of the DNR so that he can fix the problems without an investigation and fines. Administrative fines are capped at $10,000 by state law. Higher amounts can by sought in court.
For farm news and market information, visit www.brownfieldnetwork.com.
Upcoming events -
For a $50 annual fee, the Boy Scout Troop 90B and 90G will place a 3 by 5 foot flag on a 10 foot pole in front of your house on five national holidays - Memorial Day, Flag Day, 4th of July, Labor Day and Veteran's Day. Subscription forms can be found online or in the Harlan Tribune.
The new 2023 100 page book on the history of Harlan's downtown is now available. This version provides more anecdotal stories of the building owners and/or mysteries surrounding these buildings, as well as over 400 photos and illustrations. The book is being sold at the Harlan Newspapers and the Shelby County Chamber office for $20 plus tax with proceeds going to fund tourism projects funded by the Hotel/Motel Tax.
Area American Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Wednesday, December 6th 8:30 to 2:30 pm - CAM High School in Anita
12:30 to 6 pm St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Dunlap
8 to 2 pm AHSTW High School in Avoca
Noon to 6 pm St. Mary's Parish Center in Panama
Thursday, December 7th 1 pm to 6 pm Neola Community Center
11:30 to 5:30 pm Treynor Community Center
Wednesday, December 13th noon to 6 pm Central Church in Carroll
Thursday, December 14th 8 am to 2 pm Central Church in Carroll
Friday, December 15th noon to 6 pm Sacred Heart Church in Manning
The Shelby County Historical Museum announces that they will host their annual Santa in the Cabins event on Thursday, December 7th. The event will take place from 5:00-7:00 at the Shelby County Historical Museum located at 1805 Morse Avenue in Harlan. The event features pictures with Santa in the historic McIntosh cabin, carnival games, snacks, and take-and-make crafts! This year’s theme is historical Christmas traditions, so the3 activities, snacks, and crafts, will all be tied to Christmas traditions that were brought to Shelby County from Denmark, Germany, England, Mexico, and the Netherlands!”
The event is free and open to the public, and a great way to launch the holiday season while learning about Shelby County’s history!
The Lied Irwin Public Library is looking for volunteers to share their Nativity sets with the community this holiday season. They would like to have them on display for their Holiday Open House on December 9th. You can start bringing them in to the library on November 28th. They will be displayed on top of the bookcases so they will be out of harms way.
Santa Claus is coming to town with the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, December 9th. Santa will be at the Elk Horn Library at 9 am; Irwin Library at 10 am; St. Joseph Parish Hall in Earling at 11 am; St. Mary's Parish Center in Panama at 1 pm; St. Mary's Parish Center in Portsmouth at 2 pm and the Old Post Office in Tennant at 3 pm.
The Magical Christmas Cookie Walk will be held Wednesday, December 13th from 11 to 1 at the Harlan First Methodist Church. Enjoy soup, sandwich, pie or dessert, eat in or take out, cookie boxes and pre-boxed cookies too. For pre-boxes, call Beth by December 12th at 579-1870 or the church office at 755-5172.
Iowa poets are invited to enter their best work in the annual Iowa Poetry Association contest underway January 1st through February 28th. Cash prizes are offered and the competition is open without entry fee to adults, college and high school students, as well as students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Prize winners and other poems receiving high ranking in each category will be published in the association’s annual anthology “Lyrical Iowa.” Some school poems are also selected to go on to national competition. There is no obligation for either membership or purchase to enter these contests. Postmark deadline is February 24, 2024. Complete rules are needed in order to enter the contest. Send a stamped self-addressed envelope to Marilyn Baszczynski 16096 320th Way, Earlham Iowa 50072.
The Shelby County Conservation Board and Iowa DNR are teaming up with the Harrison County Conservation Board to host a winter women’s event. This event will be held February 2 to 4 at Willow Lake Recreation Area. Some activities included in this workshop are ice fishing, archery, hiking or snowshoeing, candle making, stargazing, owl calling, winter survival, and wild game cooking. To sign up or see the full schedule please follow the link: https://conta.cc/3R6h1cF If you have any questions, please reach out to Christina at 712-744-3403.
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