Monday, April 27th, 2026
24 hour rainfall totals as of 6:30 am, 4/27 -
Harlan - .23
Anita - .10
Atlantic - .05
Avoca - .13
Dunlap - .09
Earling - .12
Elk Horn - .05
Missouri Valley - -.03
Confirmed tornado in western Audubon County Thursday evening -
(4-25-26) - The National Weather Service in Des Moines, Friday confirmed a short-lived EF-U (Strength unknown) tornado occurred Thursday, in western Audubon County. The Weather Service says no damage or injuries resulting from the tornado were reported. The event was captured on video. Officials say it began at around 4:52-p.m. six-miles east of Irwin, and ended at around 4:52-p.m. after traveling less than one-tenth of a mile (0.07 miles), at a width of 10-yards.
The National Weather Service Office in Omaha/Valley, NE, Friday afternoon, confirmed four tornadoes touched down in parts of Harrison, Fremont and Page Counties.
The first happened at around 1:46-p.m. one-point-five (1.5) miles north/northwest of Little Sioux, in Harrison County just southeast of the intersection of 120th Street and Dayton Avenue. It continued northeast, flipping-over a center-pivot irrigation system. As it continued northeast, the twister damaged farm outbuildings, tree and power poles near 120th & Early Avenue. Just over a mile from that intersection, another center-pivot system was overturned before the tornado turned slightly more eastward and tore the fabric roofing off of a hoop barn near Gage Lane and Easton Trail, where the tornado dissipated. Officials rated the tornado as an EF-1 on the Fujita Scale, packing peak estimated winds of 105-mph. It lasted for 2.9-miles and was an estimated 500-yards wide.
A second, weak tornado seen on several videos and photographs from multiple angles, indicated the twister (Rated an EF-O with top winds of up to 70-mph) began at around 5:34-p.m. five-miles southeast of Riverton, in Fremont County. When it touched down it traveled to the east-northeast for about a mile and three-quarters. The Weather Service says while the near surface dust cloud was wider (About 80-yards), the actual core circulation was quite narrow and weak. The only damage along its track was minor tree damage, as the tornado crossed mostly open fields. The twister ended at around 5:37-p.m, about five-miles south of Farragut.
The third tornado was classified as “small,” and an EF-U (Unknown strength). It was confirmed through video and photographic evidence and estimated to be 20-yard wide at the most. The event began at around 5:34-p.m. five-miles south of Riverton and ended about two-minutes later after being on the ground for a little more than one-half mile.
The fourth tornado Thursday, three-miles east of Coin, in Page County, was confirmed through Storm Spotter reports, with a funnel rotating dust at the ground level, with minor tree damage at one location. The track (about 2.1-miles, at a width of 20-yards), was mainly over open fields. It began at around 6:17-p.m. and ended three-minutes later two-miles north/northwest of College Springs.
No injuries were associated with any of the events. The Weather Service says the information is preliminary and subject to change pending final review of the events and publication in NWS Storm Data.
June sentencing set for Omaha woman in death of Council Bluffs man-
(4-27-26) – 21 year old Gabrielle Geist-Hunter of Omaha has pleaded no contest to a charge of motor vehicle homicide while driving drunk and faces up to four years in prison when she is sentenced in June. She reached a plea agreement with prosecutors from the Douglas County Attorney’s Office and entered her plea on Thursday of last week. In exchange for her plea prosecutors allowed Geist-Hunter to plea to a lesser felony than initially charged and dismissed a charge of leaving the scene of a crash involving death.
Geist-Hunter was found guilty of causing the death of 72 year old Thomas Spratt, of Council Bluffs who was pushing a bicycle on the 10th Street bridge near the Durham Museum about 2:30 a.m. on Sept. 20, 2025.
According to an affidavit from an Omaha police detective, Geist-Hunter’s preliminary breath test registered 0.216 at 3:23 a.m. A follow-up test at Omaha Police Department headquarters registered 0.194. Both tests resulted in a blood-alcohol level more than two times above the legal limit. Police said Geist-Hunter was driving a 2008 Dodge Avenger that was traveling south on 10th Street when it struck Spratt. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A police helicopter located the Avenger in the area of 10th and Arbor streets with heavy damage to it. Officers responded to the area and contacted Geist-Hunter, who was identified as the driver and sole occupant of the Avenger. The vehicle was observed to have heavy front-end damage consistent with striking a pedestrian. Pieces of apparent human hair and clothing articles were observed smashed into the front windshield, where the vehicle apparently struck something with force. A trail of debris was left behind by the vehicle as it traveled southbound on South 10th Street from the crash scene. According to the affidavit, Geist-Hunter admitted to being the driver and consuming alcohol prior to driving. She denied knowledge of striking a pedestrian. According to his obituary, Spratt was a native of Council Bluffs.
Guthrie County Accident Report -
(4-27-26) – No one was injured in any of the three accidents that were reported in Guthrie County last week. The first accident occurred at around 6:25 pm on April 22nd. It caused an estimated $6000 damage. A Panora Fiber-owned 219 Chevy pickup driven by 21 year old Reid Huntley of Panora was traveling south on Highway 4, when the vehicle rear-ended a 2010 Toyota Tundra pickup, driven by 68 year old Ted Reeve of Panora. No citations were issued.
A second accident happened April 22nd at around 2:10 am on Yellow Avenue in Guthrie County. Authorities say a 2022 Case Magnum tractor driven by a 16 year old from Guthrie Center was traveling north on Yellow Avenue and towing a manure tanker, when the tanker began to fish-tail and rolled into the east ditch. The tractor did not roll over. The tanker spilled about 5,000 gallons of manure on the grave road. Officials contacted the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The report states the tractor was owned by Bret Hodges and the manure tanker was owned by Brad Enterprise. Damage from the accident amount to an estimated $100,000.
The third accident occurred at around 8:10 pm, April 23rd in the 3000 block of Highway 141. Authorities say an SUV and a pickup were traveling west on Highway 141 when the SUV, driven by a 17 year old male from Panora, rear-ended the pickup, driven by 50 year old Steven Louis Anthofer of Carroll. The pickup stopped at the scene following the collision, but the SUV turned south and kept driving. A deputy initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle and upon further investigation, cited the teenage driver for Leaving the Scene of a vehicle and upon further investigation cited the teenage driver for Leavng the Scene of a property damage accident and following too close. The teen admitted to being tired, and having nodded-off before the accident happened. Damage from the collision amounted to $3000 altogether.
Montgomery County News -
(4-27-26) - At around 10:30 Saturday morning, officers of the Red Oak Police Department arrested Michael Webster in the 500 block of E. Reed Street on a charge of Theft 3rd Degree. Webster was transported to the Montgomery County Jail where he was being held on a $2000 bond.
Adair County Sheriff’s Report -
(4-27-26) – In Sunday, April 19th, police in Stuart arrested 39 year old Adrian Aguirre of Weslaco, TX on an Hidalgo County, Texas warrant. He was arrested at the McDonald’s in Stuart and later released on his own recognizance, after authorities in Texas failed to supply the proper documentation needed to hold or extradite him. And, 28 year old Minna Elizabeth Tootle, of Greenfield was arrested April 20th on an Adair County warrant for Violation of a No Contact Order. She was released on April 22nd after time served.
On April 21st, 39 year old Amanda Marie Comly of Stuart was arrested in Greenfield on an Adair County warrant for Violation of Probation She was being held without bond in the Adair County Jail until seen by a judge.
On April 23rd, 41 year old Derik Wayne Bud Pickrell of Fontanelle was arrested for Driving While Barred – with 8 withdrawals in effect, and on a Union County warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance – marijuana – 1st offense. Pickrell was cited for the Adair County traffic offense, then turned over to Union County Sheriff’s Deputies. His bond at the Union County Jail was set at $1,000.
Also on the 23rd, 28 year old Valen Roseana McKown of Creston was arrested in Greenfield for Violation of Probation / Failure to Appear and was later released on bond.
And on the 24th, the Adair County Sheriff’s Office reports six arrests occurred last week (April 19-24). On the 24th, the Iowa State Patrol conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 80 eastbound at mile marker 79 in Adair County, and following an investigation, arrested 36-year-old Joshua Lamar Antoin Newsome, of Clinton, for Driving While License Denied or Revoked for OWI, and OWI/1st offense. He was later released on a $2,000 bond.
Mills County Sheriff’s report -
(4-27-26) – Monday, April 20th, the Mills County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 49 year old James Lee Wredt of Omaha. He was arrested in Glenwood and charged with Public Intoxication and Driving Under Suspension. His bond was set at $600.
On Tuesday, April 21st, 19 year old Alana Jolene Gerhart of Pacific Junction was arrested in Council Bluffs, for OWI-1st offense. Her bond was set at $1,000. 36 year old Joshua Tyler Herron of Honey Creek was arrested in Pacific Junction for False ID of Law Enforcement – Public Service Official and on an out of county or state warrant. His bond was set at $300.
Wednesday, April 22nd, Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 28 year old Cristyan Gonzalez Cardon of Omaha, on two counts of Violation of a No Contact Order – Domestic related. Bond was set at $600.
Thursday afternoon, 44 year old Dustin Lee Mattox of Shenandoah, was arrested in Glenwood for Failure To Appear. His bond was $5,000. And 59 year old Christopher Allen Vanderloo of Council Bluffs was arrested on two counts of Burglary in the 3rd Degree. Bond was set at $10,000
And at 7:20 pm, Friday, 44 year old Pedro R. Alejos-Mendez of Marietta, GA was arrested for Reckless Driving. His bond was set at $300.
Illinois man arrested in Carroll Thursday afternoon -
(4-25-26) - Carroll Broadcasting) - An alleged felon wanted out of Illinois was arrested Thursday in Carroll on an outstanding out-of-state warrant. According to the Carroll Police Department, 35-year-old Tremayne Donta Cherry of Joliet, Ill., was taken into custody in the 800 block of N. Court Street at approximately 8:27 a.m. on the outstanding warrant for failure to appear on pending robbery and felon in possession of a firearm charges. Cherry has a long history of run-ins with the law. In Iowa alone, he has been convicted of theft, failure to appear, and drug charges since 2015. Typically, individuals wanted on out-of-state warrants are not extradited, but a request to increase the extradition to Iowa was approved on Wednesday, leading to Cherry’s arrest on Thursday.
Riverside Names Alynn Coppock as New Superintendent -
(4-24-26) - The Riverside Community School District has named Alynn Coppock as its next superintendent following a comprehensive national search conducted in partnership with Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates.
The district announced the hiring Thursday evening after completing an extensive selection process that included candidate visits on Wednesday, April 22. During those visits, finalists toured district facilities and the surrounding communities while participating in a full day of interviews.
The interview process involved four separate committees representing a broad cross-section of the district, including students, certified and support staff, parents and community members, and district leadership. Administrative staff, the School Business Official, and department heads were also part of the evaluation process.
Coppock will succeed current Superintendent Stephanie Anderson, who is leaving the district after accepting a position as the next elementary principal in the Storm Lake Community School District.
Storms wreak havoc across western Iowa Thursday afternoon and evening -
(4-24-26) - Severe storms that fired-up in Nebraska, Thursday, didn’t take long to rumble into western Iowa. The far western parts of our listening area were pummeled early-on by hail. The National Weather Service says there were multiple reports of one-inch diameter hail (or about the size of quarters), falling between approximately 3:40- and 5-p.m., near Defiance, Denison, Aspinwall, Arcadia, Willey, Carter Lake, Missouri Valley, Dunlap, Logan and Oakland. Logan also reported some penny-sized hail (3/4″ diameter) in some spots.
A tornado was reported two-miles north of Little Sioux, in Harrison County, at around 1:45-p.m., with emergency management reporting numerous downed power lines and roofs torn-off of buildings along 120th Street. Half-dollar-size hail (1.25″ in diameter) fell 4 miles west of Pisgah, as well. Dave Reinig of Harlan, who owns a farm northeast of Little Sioux had significant damage to his farm but there were no injuries. The tornado tossed around grain trailers and threw them nearly a quarter of a mile. The storm downed power lines, scattered debris across the yard and tore buildings from the ground. Reinig stated that there are always tornadoes going through the area but this was the first one that hit the building site. Reinig says they lost a lot of trees and a bunch of things, but they are all replaceable. No one was hurt.
Fremont County Emergency Management officials reported a tornado on the ground two-miles east of Riverton at around 5:38-p.m. In Madison County, damage to outbuilding doors, as well as tree damage, was reported near Winterset between 7:15 and 7:30-p.m., as winds blew through at speeds of up to 65-miles per hour.
A house was struck by lightning at around 7:30-p.m., south of Wiota. The residents reported a fire, but were able to extinguish it. Smoke was still being observed, though, so they called to have the structure checked-out. Firefighters from Wiota and Anita were dispatched to the scene and confirmed there was smoke in the structure, and possible fire. No injuries were reported. Additional information is currently not available.
Local fire department spotters in Story County reported a tornado on the ground near Slater, at around 7:33-p.m., Thursday. A large section of a machine shed was blown-off and power lines were reported to be down at around 8:30-p.m. east of Swan, in Marion County. Thunderstorm wind damage was reported in Decatur County, near Leon and Weldon, where a metal roof was blown-off of a shed. The forecast calls for the chance for more scattered storms over Iowa on Sunday and into Monday.
Minutes from the Shelby County Supervisors meeting Tuesday, April 21st -
(4-24-26) - The Shelby County Board of Supervisors met in regular session Tuesday, April 21st. Schaben made a motion to recess the meeting and open the posted hearing for the fiscal year 2027 Shelby County Budget, Schaben seconded the motion. There were no comments from the public and no verbal or written comments were submitted to the Auditor’s office concerning the fiscal year 2027 budget. Kolbe made a motion to close the budget hearing and reopen the regular meeting, Schaben seconded the motion.
Kolbe made a motion and Schaben seconded the motion to adopt Resolution No. 2026-20 – Entry Record of the Haring and Determination of the County Budget for Fiscal Year 2027.
Schaben made a motion to open the public hearing for the FY26 Budget Amendment #3, Kolbe seconded the motion. After no written or oral comments from the public, Schaben made a motion to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting, Kolbe seconded the motion.
It was moved by Schaben, seconded by Kolbe to adopt Resolution 2026-21 – Entry Record of the Filing and Consideration of the county budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2026.
Engineer, Chris Fredericksen, presented a ROW permit for approval. Schaben made a motion to approve the IDOT ROW permit for FMCTC; Kolbe seconded the motion. The Engineer then gave a department update which included thanking the Sheriff’s Deputies who provided traffic control for a maintainer that broke down on HWY 44 Monday afternoon.
Geralyn Greer , County Recorder, stated they are trying to update historical records on the Iowa Land Records site from 1988 forward. Greer also stated there are new hard card images available for hunting and fishing licenses.
Treasurer, Carolyn Blum, gave a brief department update stating Motor Vehicles has seen an increase in revenue for the month of March. Blum presented an abatement for taxes on a mobile home abandoned in the mobile home park which was recently removed. Schaben made a motion to abate all outstanding taxes for a mobile home with the VIN #M602045, Kolbe seconded the motion.
Nick Preston provided a Conservation department update. County parks are now open for the season, and the beaver bounty has concluded with a total of 217 tails turned in. Preston said all spots for summer kids’ programs have been filled.
Kenny Hansen, EMS Director, informed the Supervisors of a proposed transport agreement between Audubon Hospital and Shelby County Ambulance Service. Audubon County Memorial Hospital has provided a letter of intent to move forward with finalizing the agreement and asked for the Shelby County Supervisors support of the agreement. Parkhurst,
Schaben made a motion to approve amending the 2026 Shelby County Handbook Ambulance Addendum sleep period provision from designating a time to referring to the department policy for the sleep period times; Parkhurst seconded the motion. Supervisors gave a brief update on meetings they attended.
The City of Harlan did not submit their application before the meeting, this agenda item was tabled.
Kolbe made a motion to approve the following resolution No. 2026-22 a resolution fixing the date for a public hearing on the proposition to repeal Ordinance No. 2022-4 – an ordinance to amend various sections of the Shelby County Zoning ordinance No. 2006-6 for the purpose of regulating and restricting the use of land for the transport of hazardous liquid through a hazardous liquid pipeline. Schaben seconded the motion
BY FEDERAL LAW PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors of Shelby County, State of Iowa, will meet in the Supervisors Room, Shelby County Courthouse, at 9:00 A.M., on the date May 5, 2026, for the purpose of hearing public comment on and for considering and voting on the passage of a proposed ordinance repealing Shelby County Ordinance No. 2022-4, An Ordinance to Amend Various Sections of the Shelby County Zoning Ordinance No. 2006-6 for the Purpose of Regulating and Restricting the Use of Land for the Transport of Hazardous Liquid Through a Hazardous Liquid Pipeline, following a final court ruling finding the ordinance to be preempted by federal law.
Kolbe made a motion to direct the Budget Director to advertise for a public hearing on the proposed FY26 Budget Amendment #4 to be held at 9:05 a.m. on May 19th, 2026 in the Supervisors Chambers.
After discussion Schaben made a motion to appoint Taryn Knapp as ADA Coordinator for Shelby County.
Shelby County Board of Supervisors to meet in Special Session Tuesday -
(4-24-26) – The Shelby County Board of Supervisors will meet in special session Tuesday, April 28th, at 8 am. Among items on the agenda is considering approval of the agenda and consider approval of FY2027 DOT budget.
Montgomery County News -
(4-24-26) – A 15 year old juvenile male in Montgomery County was arrested Thursday for Burglary in the 3rd Degree – an aggravated misdemeanor. He was cited in the area of the 500 block of East 5th Street in Villisca for a theft from a vehicle. The juvenile was released to a parent after a brief investigation.
(4-23-26) – 67 year old Penny Torczon of Red Oak was involved in a single vehicle accident Wednesday afternoon at about 3:30 pm at 7th and Corning Streets in Red Oak. According to Red Oak Police, a tree branch fell down and struck a MidAmerican power line connected to a power pole at the northeast corner of the intersection. Authorities say the impact of the tree branch caused the power pole to fall onto and block the roadway. Shortly afterward, Torczon, in a 2011 Chrysler Town and Country van was approaching the intersection and failed to see the power pole blocking the road. Her van drove over the pole, causing an estimated $2000 damage to the vehicle. The Red Oak Police and Fire Department along with MidAmerican Energy blocked off the roadway until the debris could be cleared.
Weekly Fuel Report -
(4-24-26) - Fuel costs dipped significantly, according to this week’s report from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and AAA-Iowa. As of Wednesday, April 22, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in the state was $3.51, down 14 cents from last week but 55 cents higher than a year ago. The national average on Wednesday was down nine cents to $4.02 per gallon. The statewide average fell 16 cents to $4.91 per gallon, which is $1.54 above 2025’s prices. The national average for diesel on Wednesday stood at $5.49 per gallon. Natural gas prices at the Henry Hub reporting site were up 10 cents to $2.71 per MMBtu.
Shelby County Sheriff reports a SCAM alert -
(4-23-26) – The Shelby County Sheriff’s office reports they are seeing a SCAM alert for Traffic Violations. A text message scam is circulating in our area titled “Final Notice For Fines – Court Enforcement Action.” These messages claim to be from the State of Iowa with information regarding Missouri cases and urge you to click or scan to submit payment information. THIS IS A SCAM. The State of Iowa will NOT contact you by way of text message to request payment for unpaid fines.
What to do if you receive a message like this:
Do NOT click the link or scan the QR code
Do NOT enter any personal or payment information
Delete the message immediately and report it as SPAM
If you’re unsure about a notice, contact the Iowa DOT directly through their official website or phone number.
LifeServe Blood Center offers students opportunities to earn scholarships and save lives –
(4-23-26) - LifeServe Blood Center wants to help students and their families save money while saving lives. Students who plan and execute a successful blood drive through LifeServe can earn scholarships and recognition while making a meaningful difference in their community. LifeServe will award up to $500 in scholarship funds to students who organize a successful blood drive between Memorial Day and Labor Day. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must recruit donors, act as the chairperson for the blood drive, and register 25 donors ($250 awarded) or 40 donors ($500 awarded). With schools out and regular routines on hold, blood donations tend to drop during the summer months. But that doesn’t mean there’s less need. Each blood donation has the ability to impact three lives. By hosting a blood drive and recruiting donors, students can maximize their impact and make sure local patients have access to the blood products they need. Learn more about LifeServe’s scholarship opportunities at lifeserve.info/students. Those interested in hosting a blood drive should fill out the form on that page and a representative from LifeServe will reach out to set up the drive.
Iowa state parks seek campground hosts
(4-15-26) - Iowa state parks are actively searching for top-notch volunteers to serve as campground hosts for the 2026 camping season. Parks seeking campground hosts include:
Honey Creek State Park (Moravia, Appanoose County)
Lake Manawa State Park (Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie County)
Nine Eagles State Park (Davis City, Decatur County)
Prairie Rose State Park (Harlan, Shelby County)
Campground hosts play an important role in the Iowa state park system by welcoming campers, answering questions and providing park information. Hosts also assist park managers with light maintenance and facility upkeep as needed. Active volunteer time is about 20-30 hours per week, primarily on the weekends. Because this is a volunteer position, campground hosts are not paid but receive a free campsite while actively hosting, which is between April and October. Hosts must provide their own camping vehicle such as an RV. To apply or to learn more: visit iowadnr.gov/volunteer; send an email to [email protected]; or reach out to the individual park office.
Grant Applications Now Open to Boost Main Street Iowa Businesses -
(4-15-26) - Small businesses located within the Avoca Main Street district and other designated Main Street Iowa districts may compete for grants of up to $25,000. Main Street Iowa’s annual Open 4 Business program supports existing businesses and downtown revitalization in more than 50 designated Main Street Iowa communities. As part of the contest, entrepreneurs will outline a business development or expansion idea, such as adding services or product offerings or purchasing needed equipment. Eligible businesses must be for-profit and have operated for at least one year within a designated Main Street Iowa district. In addition to the online application, applicants must submit a short video highlighting their project and how it will benefit their community’s economic climate. A 25% cash match is required. Only one application is allowed per Main Street Iowa community. To determine which business will represent Avoca, eligible businesses and projects will submit a three-minute pitch video to Avoca Main Street by May 11, 2026. Videos will be reviewed by a committee of economic development experts, and applicants will be notified by the end of business day on May 12, 2026. The selected applicant will receive committee feedback and professional staff support to complete the state-wide application. Applications for the state competition must be submitted through the local program to Main Street Iowa by June 25. Main Street Iowa staff will evaluate applications based on project impact within the district, business innovation and the potential for growth, increased revenue and long-term sustainability. Five finalists will advance to the state competition on October 5 in Osceola, where they will pitch their ideas before a panel of judges. Open 4 Business launched in 2015 and has awarded funding to around 50 businesses across the state. Grants are administered through the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Downtown Resource Center and Main Street Iowa programs.
Volunteers are needed for the Wall That Heals -
The Wall that Heals is a program of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organization authorized by the US Congress in 1980 to build the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. to honor those who served in war. In November 1996, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund unveiled The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter exact replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial designed to travel throughout the United States. The Wall is the largest traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and is the only traveling display wholly owned and operated by a non-profit organization as well as the only accompanied by a mobile Education Center. Manning is one of only 31 communities across the United States selected to host The Wall That Heals in 2026 following a competitive process. Manning is honored to have been selected to host The Wall That Heals. This volunteer-driven event will welcome volunteers and visitors from across the region. It will be located at the IKM-Manning High School. There is no cost to visit. The Wall will be escorted into Manning on July 21st. The exhibit will be set during the day on July 22nd and volunteer training will take place at 6 pm. The wall will be open and accessible to the public 24 hours a day with a Welcome Home Ceremony at 6 pm on July 23rd. A Candle Vigil will be held at dusk on July 24th and a closing ceremony will take place at about 1:45 on July 26th. Hosting the Wall That Heals is a community wide effort. From start to finish they estimate it will take roughly 200 volunteers to host. Ways to volunteer, sponsor, support and attend can be found on their website at the wall that heals manning 2026 dot com.
Vietnam Veterans who died after returning home from Vietnam eligible to be honored at The Wall That Heals exhibit in Manning -
(2-5-26) - The Wall That Heals will be on display in Manning in 2026 and as part of the exhibit, local Vietnam Veterans who died after returning home are eligible to be honored as part of the In Memory Honor Roll display. Since the Vietnam War ended, thousands of Vietnam veterans have suffered due to Agent Orange exposure, PTSD and other illnesses as a result of their service. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) believes all those who served in Vietnam should be honored and remembered for their service. The In Memory program enables the families and friends of thosewho came home and later died the opportunity to have them be forever memorialized. All veterans from Iowa honored through In Memory will have their photos and names ondisplay as part of the mobile Education Center exhibit when The Wall That Heals is in Manning. If your loved one served in Vietnam, returned home and later died – we want to be able to proudly display their name and photo in our community. We’re asking for the public’s help to identify eligible veterans and get their applications into VVMF so their veteran can be on display in Manning.There is no cost to have a veteran honored and the application process is simple. To honor a loved one, you only need to complete a short application and submit the veteran’s DD214 showing their proof of service in Vietnam, a copy of their death certificate and two photographs.
For farm news and market information, visit www.brownfieldnetwork.com.
Upcoming events -
The Harlan Community Library has opened a Free Little Food Pantry, located in the entryway of the library. Help them out by dropping off your canned and dry goods. Check out the Library Facebook page for their hours.
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 2026 Fun China Luncheon will be held Wednesday, April 22nd from 11:30 to 12:30 at the Harlan Golf and Country Club Ballroom. Everyone is invited. The cost is $20 per person and seating reservations are required. For more information, contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry Office at 755-2114.
Upcoming Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Tuesday, April 28th - 8:30 am to 2:30 pm - Tri-Center High School in Neola
Noon to 6 pm - Portsmouth American Legion
Wednesday, April 29th - 7:30 am to 1:30 pm - Harlan Community High School
Thursday, April 30th - 8:30 am to 2:30 pm - Underwood High School
Tuesday, May 12th - 11:30 am to 5:30 pm - Veteran's Memorial Building in Harlan Call Sue for an appointment 579-8012.
LifeServe Donation Centers -
Monday, May 4th - 1 pm to 4:30 pm - Schleswig Community Building
Friday, May 8th - 10 am to 1:30 pm - Schleswig Community on May 4, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 4:30pm at 204 2nd Street, Schleswig
Friday, May 8th - 10 am to 1:30 pm - Ar-We-Va Community School on May 8, 2026 from 10:00 am to 1:30pm at 108 Clinton, Westside
Monday, May 11th - 12:30 pm to 5:45 pm for Denison Community at 100 Medical Parkway, Denison
Schedule your lifesaving appointment by visiting lifeservebloodcenter.org or by calling 800.287.4903.
Concerned, Inc of Harlan will be having a Fundraiser at the Harlan Pizza Hut at 2214 Lincoln Avenue in Harlan. Hours are from 11 am to 8 pm. Check out their Concerned Inc. Facebook page to find the flyer for the event. Print it out, and bring it in or mention it and Pizza Hut will donate 15% of the sales to Concerned, In.
The Hitchcock Pioneer Skills Festival will be held Saturday, May 2nd at the Hitchcock House west of Lewis. The festivities will begin at 1 pm and end at 4. You’ll have an opportunity to visit the historic Hitchcock House and see many of the skills and crafts that people of the late 1800’s used in daily living. Tour the house, then head out to the barn, the hub of the festival activities. Observe the skills and crafts of the past with rope making, candle dipping, tin punching and woodcarvings. There is a $5 fee for adults for a tour of the house. All activities in the barn are free of charge, but donations will be accepted.
Community Garden Plots are now available for any community member who would like to grow their own produce. Each plot measures 15 by 20 feet with a $20 fee for each plot and a $20 deposit is also required for a water key. All garden plots will be tilled and available on May 1st to begin planting. Call the Shelby County Extension and Outreach at 755-3104 for more information or to reserve your gardening plot.
The Harlan National Honor Society is partnering with Myrtue Medical Center for a 5K Color for a Cure at the Shelby County Fairgrounds, Sunday, May 3rd. Registration is at 3:30 pm with the Run at 4 and walk at 4:05 pm. Early bird sign up is $20. The day of the race its $25.
Relay for Life of Shelby County is scheduled for Friday, June 5th from 5 to 10 pm on the downtown Harlan Square.
Harlan - .23
Anita - .10
Atlantic - .05
Avoca - .13
Dunlap - .09
Earling - .12
Elk Horn - .05
Missouri Valley - -.03
Confirmed tornado in western Audubon County Thursday evening -
(4-25-26) - The National Weather Service in Des Moines, Friday confirmed a short-lived EF-U (Strength unknown) tornado occurred Thursday, in western Audubon County. The Weather Service says no damage or injuries resulting from the tornado were reported. The event was captured on video. Officials say it began at around 4:52-p.m. six-miles east of Irwin, and ended at around 4:52-p.m. after traveling less than one-tenth of a mile (0.07 miles), at a width of 10-yards.
The National Weather Service Office in Omaha/Valley, NE, Friday afternoon, confirmed four tornadoes touched down in parts of Harrison, Fremont and Page Counties.
The first happened at around 1:46-p.m. one-point-five (1.5) miles north/northwest of Little Sioux, in Harrison County just southeast of the intersection of 120th Street and Dayton Avenue. It continued northeast, flipping-over a center-pivot irrigation system. As it continued northeast, the twister damaged farm outbuildings, tree and power poles near 120th & Early Avenue. Just over a mile from that intersection, another center-pivot system was overturned before the tornado turned slightly more eastward and tore the fabric roofing off of a hoop barn near Gage Lane and Easton Trail, where the tornado dissipated. Officials rated the tornado as an EF-1 on the Fujita Scale, packing peak estimated winds of 105-mph. It lasted for 2.9-miles and was an estimated 500-yards wide.
A second, weak tornado seen on several videos and photographs from multiple angles, indicated the twister (Rated an EF-O with top winds of up to 70-mph) began at around 5:34-p.m. five-miles southeast of Riverton, in Fremont County. When it touched down it traveled to the east-northeast for about a mile and three-quarters. The Weather Service says while the near surface dust cloud was wider (About 80-yards), the actual core circulation was quite narrow and weak. The only damage along its track was minor tree damage, as the tornado crossed mostly open fields. The twister ended at around 5:37-p.m, about five-miles south of Farragut.
The third tornado was classified as “small,” and an EF-U (Unknown strength). It was confirmed through video and photographic evidence and estimated to be 20-yard wide at the most. The event began at around 5:34-p.m. five-miles south of Riverton and ended about two-minutes later after being on the ground for a little more than one-half mile.
The fourth tornado Thursday, three-miles east of Coin, in Page County, was confirmed through Storm Spotter reports, with a funnel rotating dust at the ground level, with minor tree damage at one location. The track (about 2.1-miles, at a width of 20-yards), was mainly over open fields. It began at around 6:17-p.m. and ended three-minutes later two-miles north/northwest of College Springs.
No injuries were associated with any of the events. The Weather Service says the information is preliminary and subject to change pending final review of the events and publication in NWS Storm Data.
June sentencing set for Omaha woman in death of Council Bluffs man-
(4-27-26) – 21 year old Gabrielle Geist-Hunter of Omaha has pleaded no contest to a charge of motor vehicle homicide while driving drunk and faces up to four years in prison when she is sentenced in June. She reached a plea agreement with prosecutors from the Douglas County Attorney’s Office and entered her plea on Thursday of last week. In exchange for her plea prosecutors allowed Geist-Hunter to plea to a lesser felony than initially charged and dismissed a charge of leaving the scene of a crash involving death.
Geist-Hunter was found guilty of causing the death of 72 year old Thomas Spratt, of Council Bluffs who was pushing a bicycle on the 10th Street bridge near the Durham Museum about 2:30 a.m. on Sept. 20, 2025.
According to an affidavit from an Omaha police detective, Geist-Hunter’s preliminary breath test registered 0.216 at 3:23 a.m. A follow-up test at Omaha Police Department headquarters registered 0.194. Both tests resulted in a blood-alcohol level more than two times above the legal limit. Police said Geist-Hunter was driving a 2008 Dodge Avenger that was traveling south on 10th Street when it struck Spratt. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A police helicopter located the Avenger in the area of 10th and Arbor streets with heavy damage to it. Officers responded to the area and contacted Geist-Hunter, who was identified as the driver and sole occupant of the Avenger. The vehicle was observed to have heavy front-end damage consistent with striking a pedestrian. Pieces of apparent human hair and clothing articles were observed smashed into the front windshield, where the vehicle apparently struck something with force. A trail of debris was left behind by the vehicle as it traveled southbound on South 10th Street from the crash scene. According to the affidavit, Geist-Hunter admitted to being the driver and consuming alcohol prior to driving. She denied knowledge of striking a pedestrian. According to his obituary, Spratt was a native of Council Bluffs.
Guthrie County Accident Report -
(4-27-26) – No one was injured in any of the three accidents that were reported in Guthrie County last week. The first accident occurred at around 6:25 pm on April 22nd. It caused an estimated $6000 damage. A Panora Fiber-owned 219 Chevy pickup driven by 21 year old Reid Huntley of Panora was traveling south on Highway 4, when the vehicle rear-ended a 2010 Toyota Tundra pickup, driven by 68 year old Ted Reeve of Panora. No citations were issued.
A second accident happened April 22nd at around 2:10 am on Yellow Avenue in Guthrie County. Authorities say a 2022 Case Magnum tractor driven by a 16 year old from Guthrie Center was traveling north on Yellow Avenue and towing a manure tanker, when the tanker began to fish-tail and rolled into the east ditch. The tractor did not roll over. The tanker spilled about 5,000 gallons of manure on the grave road. Officials contacted the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The report states the tractor was owned by Bret Hodges and the manure tanker was owned by Brad Enterprise. Damage from the accident amount to an estimated $100,000.
The third accident occurred at around 8:10 pm, April 23rd in the 3000 block of Highway 141. Authorities say an SUV and a pickup were traveling west on Highway 141 when the SUV, driven by a 17 year old male from Panora, rear-ended the pickup, driven by 50 year old Steven Louis Anthofer of Carroll. The pickup stopped at the scene following the collision, but the SUV turned south and kept driving. A deputy initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle and upon further investigation, cited the teenage driver for Leaving the Scene of a vehicle and upon further investigation cited the teenage driver for Leavng the Scene of a property damage accident and following too close. The teen admitted to being tired, and having nodded-off before the accident happened. Damage from the collision amounted to $3000 altogether.
Montgomery County News -
(4-27-26) - At around 10:30 Saturday morning, officers of the Red Oak Police Department arrested Michael Webster in the 500 block of E. Reed Street on a charge of Theft 3rd Degree. Webster was transported to the Montgomery County Jail where he was being held on a $2000 bond.
Adair County Sheriff’s Report -
(4-27-26) – In Sunday, April 19th, police in Stuart arrested 39 year old Adrian Aguirre of Weslaco, TX on an Hidalgo County, Texas warrant. He was arrested at the McDonald’s in Stuart and later released on his own recognizance, after authorities in Texas failed to supply the proper documentation needed to hold or extradite him. And, 28 year old Minna Elizabeth Tootle, of Greenfield was arrested April 20th on an Adair County warrant for Violation of a No Contact Order. She was released on April 22nd after time served.
On April 21st, 39 year old Amanda Marie Comly of Stuart was arrested in Greenfield on an Adair County warrant for Violation of Probation She was being held without bond in the Adair County Jail until seen by a judge.
On April 23rd, 41 year old Derik Wayne Bud Pickrell of Fontanelle was arrested for Driving While Barred – with 8 withdrawals in effect, and on a Union County warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance – marijuana – 1st offense. Pickrell was cited for the Adair County traffic offense, then turned over to Union County Sheriff’s Deputies. His bond at the Union County Jail was set at $1,000.
Also on the 23rd, 28 year old Valen Roseana McKown of Creston was arrested in Greenfield for Violation of Probation / Failure to Appear and was later released on bond.
And on the 24th, the Adair County Sheriff’s Office reports six arrests occurred last week (April 19-24). On the 24th, the Iowa State Patrol conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 80 eastbound at mile marker 79 in Adair County, and following an investigation, arrested 36-year-old Joshua Lamar Antoin Newsome, of Clinton, for Driving While License Denied or Revoked for OWI, and OWI/1st offense. He was later released on a $2,000 bond.
Mills County Sheriff’s report -
(4-27-26) – Monday, April 20th, the Mills County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 49 year old James Lee Wredt of Omaha. He was arrested in Glenwood and charged with Public Intoxication and Driving Under Suspension. His bond was set at $600.
On Tuesday, April 21st, 19 year old Alana Jolene Gerhart of Pacific Junction was arrested in Council Bluffs, for OWI-1st offense. Her bond was set at $1,000. 36 year old Joshua Tyler Herron of Honey Creek was arrested in Pacific Junction for False ID of Law Enforcement – Public Service Official and on an out of county or state warrant. His bond was set at $300.
Wednesday, April 22nd, Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 28 year old Cristyan Gonzalez Cardon of Omaha, on two counts of Violation of a No Contact Order – Domestic related. Bond was set at $600.
Thursday afternoon, 44 year old Dustin Lee Mattox of Shenandoah, was arrested in Glenwood for Failure To Appear. His bond was $5,000. And 59 year old Christopher Allen Vanderloo of Council Bluffs was arrested on two counts of Burglary in the 3rd Degree. Bond was set at $10,000
And at 7:20 pm, Friday, 44 year old Pedro R. Alejos-Mendez of Marietta, GA was arrested for Reckless Driving. His bond was set at $300.
Illinois man arrested in Carroll Thursday afternoon -
(4-25-26) - Carroll Broadcasting) - An alleged felon wanted out of Illinois was arrested Thursday in Carroll on an outstanding out-of-state warrant. According to the Carroll Police Department, 35-year-old Tremayne Donta Cherry of Joliet, Ill., was taken into custody in the 800 block of N. Court Street at approximately 8:27 a.m. on the outstanding warrant for failure to appear on pending robbery and felon in possession of a firearm charges. Cherry has a long history of run-ins with the law. In Iowa alone, he has been convicted of theft, failure to appear, and drug charges since 2015. Typically, individuals wanted on out-of-state warrants are not extradited, but a request to increase the extradition to Iowa was approved on Wednesday, leading to Cherry’s arrest on Thursday.
Riverside Names Alynn Coppock as New Superintendent -
(4-24-26) - The Riverside Community School District has named Alynn Coppock as its next superintendent following a comprehensive national search conducted in partnership with Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates.
The district announced the hiring Thursday evening after completing an extensive selection process that included candidate visits on Wednesday, April 22. During those visits, finalists toured district facilities and the surrounding communities while participating in a full day of interviews.
The interview process involved four separate committees representing a broad cross-section of the district, including students, certified and support staff, parents and community members, and district leadership. Administrative staff, the School Business Official, and department heads were also part of the evaluation process.
Coppock will succeed current Superintendent Stephanie Anderson, who is leaving the district after accepting a position as the next elementary principal in the Storm Lake Community School District.
Storms wreak havoc across western Iowa Thursday afternoon and evening -
(4-24-26) - Severe storms that fired-up in Nebraska, Thursday, didn’t take long to rumble into western Iowa. The far western parts of our listening area were pummeled early-on by hail. The National Weather Service says there were multiple reports of one-inch diameter hail (or about the size of quarters), falling between approximately 3:40- and 5-p.m., near Defiance, Denison, Aspinwall, Arcadia, Willey, Carter Lake, Missouri Valley, Dunlap, Logan and Oakland. Logan also reported some penny-sized hail (3/4″ diameter) in some spots.
A tornado was reported two-miles north of Little Sioux, in Harrison County, at around 1:45-p.m., with emergency management reporting numerous downed power lines and roofs torn-off of buildings along 120th Street. Half-dollar-size hail (1.25″ in diameter) fell 4 miles west of Pisgah, as well. Dave Reinig of Harlan, who owns a farm northeast of Little Sioux had significant damage to his farm but there were no injuries. The tornado tossed around grain trailers and threw them nearly a quarter of a mile. The storm downed power lines, scattered debris across the yard and tore buildings from the ground. Reinig stated that there are always tornadoes going through the area but this was the first one that hit the building site. Reinig says they lost a lot of trees and a bunch of things, but they are all replaceable. No one was hurt.
Fremont County Emergency Management officials reported a tornado on the ground two-miles east of Riverton at around 5:38-p.m. In Madison County, damage to outbuilding doors, as well as tree damage, was reported near Winterset between 7:15 and 7:30-p.m., as winds blew through at speeds of up to 65-miles per hour.
A house was struck by lightning at around 7:30-p.m., south of Wiota. The residents reported a fire, but were able to extinguish it. Smoke was still being observed, though, so they called to have the structure checked-out. Firefighters from Wiota and Anita were dispatched to the scene and confirmed there was smoke in the structure, and possible fire. No injuries were reported. Additional information is currently not available.
Local fire department spotters in Story County reported a tornado on the ground near Slater, at around 7:33-p.m., Thursday. A large section of a machine shed was blown-off and power lines were reported to be down at around 8:30-p.m. east of Swan, in Marion County. Thunderstorm wind damage was reported in Decatur County, near Leon and Weldon, where a metal roof was blown-off of a shed. The forecast calls for the chance for more scattered storms over Iowa on Sunday and into Monday.
Minutes from the Shelby County Supervisors meeting Tuesday, April 21st -
(4-24-26) - The Shelby County Board of Supervisors met in regular session Tuesday, April 21st. Schaben made a motion to recess the meeting and open the posted hearing for the fiscal year 2027 Shelby County Budget, Schaben seconded the motion. There were no comments from the public and no verbal or written comments were submitted to the Auditor’s office concerning the fiscal year 2027 budget. Kolbe made a motion to close the budget hearing and reopen the regular meeting, Schaben seconded the motion.
Kolbe made a motion and Schaben seconded the motion to adopt Resolution No. 2026-20 – Entry Record of the Haring and Determination of the County Budget for Fiscal Year 2027.
Schaben made a motion to open the public hearing for the FY26 Budget Amendment #3, Kolbe seconded the motion. After no written or oral comments from the public, Schaben made a motion to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting, Kolbe seconded the motion.
It was moved by Schaben, seconded by Kolbe to adopt Resolution 2026-21 – Entry Record of the Filing and Consideration of the county budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2026.
Engineer, Chris Fredericksen, presented a ROW permit for approval. Schaben made a motion to approve the IDOT ROW permit for FMCTC; Kolbe seconded the motion. The Engineer then gave a department update which included thanking the Sheriff’s Deputies who provided traffic control for a maintainer that broke down on HWY 44 Monday afternoon.
Geralyn Greer , County Recorder, stated they are trying to update historical records on the Iowa Land Records site from 1988 forward. Greer also stated there are new hard card images available for hunting and fishing licenses.
Treasurer, Carolyn Blum, gave a brief department update stating Motor Vehicles has seen an increase in revenue for the month of March. Blum presented an abatement for taxes on a mobile home abandoned in the mobile home park which was recently removed. Schaben made a motion to abate all outstanding taxes for a mobile home with the VIN #M602045, Kolbe seconded the motion.
Nick Preston provided a Conservation department update. County parks are now open for the season, and the beaver bounty has concluded with a total of 217 tails turned in. Preston said all spots for summer kids’ programs have been filled.
Kenny Hansen, EMS Director, informed the Supervisors of a proposed transport agreement between Audubon Hospital and Shelby County Ambulance Service. Audubon County Memorial Hospital has provided a letter of intent to move forward with finalizing the agreement and asked for the Shelby County Supervisors support of the agreement. Parkhurst,
Schaben made a motion to approve amending the 2026 Shelby County Handbook Ambulance Addendum sleep period provision from designating a time to referring to the department policy for the sleep period times; Parkhurst seconded the motion. Supervisors gave a brief update on meetings they attended.
The City of Harlan did not submit their application before the meeting, this agenda item was tabled.
Kolbe made a motion to approve the following resolution No. 2026-22 a resolution fixing the date for a public hearing on the proposition to repeal Ordinance No. 2022-4 – an ordinance to amend various sections of the Shelby County Zoning ordinance No. 2006-6 for the purpose of regulating and restricting the use of land for the transport of hazardous liquid through a hazardous liquid pipeline. Schaben seconded the motion
BY FEDERAL LAW PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the Board of Supervisors of Shelby County, State of Iowa, will meet in the Supervisors Room, Shelby County Courthouse, at 9:00 A.M., on the date May 5, 2026, for the purpose of hearing public comment on and for considering and voting on the passage of a proposed ordinance repealing Shelby County Ordinance No. 2022-4, An Ordinance to Amend Various Sections of the Shelby County Zoning Ordinance No. 2006-6 for the Purpose of Regulating and Restricting the Use of Land for the Transport of Hazardous Liquid Through a Hazardous Liquid Pipeline, following a final court ruling finding the ordinance to be preempted by federal law.
Kolbe made a motion to direct the Budget Director to advertise for a public hearing on the proposed FY26 Budget Amendment #4 to be held at 9:05 a.m. on May 19th, 2026 in the Supervisors Chambers.
After discussion Schaben made a motion to appoint Taryn Knapp as ADA Coordinator for Shelby County.
Shelby County Board of Supervisors to meet in Special Session Tuesday -
(4-24-26) – The Shelby County Board of Supervisors will meet in special session Tuesday, April 28th, at 8 am. Among items on the agenda is considering approval of the agenda and consider approval of FY2027 DOT budget.
Montgomery County News -
(4-24-26) – A 15 year old juvenile male in Montgomery County was arrested Thursday for Burglary in the 3rd Degree – an aggravated misdemeanor. He was cited in the area of the 500 block of East 5th Street in Villisca for a theft from a vehicle. The juvenile was released to a parent after a brief investigation.
(4-23-26) – 67 year old Penny Torczon of Red Oak was involved in a single vehicle accident Wednesday afternoon at about 3:30 pm at 7th and Corning Streets in Red Oak. According to Red Oak Police, a tree branch fell down and struck a MidAmerican power line connected to a power pole at the northeast corner of the intersection. Authorities say the impact of the tree branch caused the power pole to fall onto and block the roadway. Shortly afterward, Torczon, in a 2011 Chrysler Town and Country van was approaching the intersection and failed to see the power pole blocking the road. Her van drove over the pole, causing an estimated $2000 damage to the vehicle. The Red Oak Police and Fire Department along with MidAmerican Energy blocked off the roadway until the debris could be cleared.
Weekly Fuel Report -
(4-24-26) - Fuel costs dipped significantly, according to this week’s report from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and AAA-Iowa. As of Wednesday, April 22, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in the state was $3.51, down 14 cents from last week but 55 cents higher than a year ago. The national average on Wednesday was down nine cents to $4.02 per gallon. The statewide average fell 16 cents to $4.91 per gallon, which is $1.54 above 2025’s prices. The national average for diesel on Wednesday stood at $5.49 per gallon. Natural gas prices at the Henry Hub reporting site were up 10 cents to $2.71 per MMBtu.
Shelby County Sheriff reports a SCAM alert -
(4-23-26) – The Shelby County Sheriff’s office reports they are seeing a SCAM alert for Traffic Violations. A text message scam is circulating in our area titled “Final Notice For Fines – Court Enforcement Action.” These messages claim to be from the State of Iowa with information regarding Missouri cases and urge you to click or scan to submit payment information. THIS IS A SCAM. The State of Iowa will NOT contact you by way of text message to request payment for unpaid fines.
What to do if you receive a message like this:
Do NOT click the link or scan the QR code
Do NOT enter any personal or payment information
Delete the message immediately and report it as SPAM
If you’re unsure about a notice, contact the Iowa DOT directly through their official website or phone number.
LifeServe Blood Center offers students opportunities to earn scholarships and save lives –
(4-23-26) - LifeServe Blood Center wants to help students and their families save money while saving lives. Students who plan and execute a successful blood drive through LifeServe can earn scholarships and recognition while making a meaningful difference in their community. LifeServe will award up to $500 in scholarship funds to students who organize a successful blood drive between Memorial Day and Labor Day. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must recruit donors, act as the chairperson for the blood drive, and register 25 donors ($250 awarded) or 40 donors ($500 awarded). With schools out and regular routines on hold, blood donations tend to drop during the summer months. But that doesn’t mean there’s less need. Each blood donation has the ability to impact three lives. By hosting a blood drive and recruiting donors, students can maximize their impact and make sure local patients have access to the blood products they need. Learn more about LifeServe’s scholarship opportunities at lifeserve.info/students. Those interested in hosting a blood drive should fill out the form on that page and a representative from LifeServe will reach out to set up the drive.
Iowa state parks seek campground hosts
(4-15-26) - Iowa state parks are actively searching for top-notch volunteers to serve as campground hosts for the 2026 camping season. Parks seeking campground hosts include:
Honey Creek State Park (Moravia, Appanoose County)
Lake Manawa State Park (Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie County)
Nine Eagles State Park (Davis City, Decatur County)
Prairie Rose State Park (Harlan, Shelby County)
Campground hosts play an important role in the Iowa state park system by welcoming campers, answering questions and providing park information. Hosts also assist park managers with light maintenance and facility upkeep as needed. Active volunteer time is about 20-30 hours per week, primarily on the weekends. Because this is a volunteer position, campground hosts are not paid but receive a free campsite while actively hosting, which is between April and October. Hosts must provide their own camping vehicle such as an RV. To apply or to learn more: visit iowadnr.gov/volunteer; send an email to [email protected]; or reach out to the individual park office.
Grant Applications Now Open to Boost Main Street Iowa Businesses -
(4-15-26) - Small businesses located within the Avoca Main Street district and other designated Main Street Iowa districts may compete for grants of up to $25,000. Main Street Iowa’s annual Open 4 Business program supports existing businesses and downtown revitalization in more than 50 designated Main Street Iowa communities. As part of the contest, entrepreneurs will outline a business development or expansion idea, such as adding services or product offerings or purchasing needed equipment. Eligible businesses must be for-profit and have operated for at least one year within a designated Main Street Iowa district. In addition to the online application, applicants must submit a short video highlighting their project and how it will benefit their community’s economic climate. A 25% cash match is required. Only one application is allowed per Main Street Iowa community. To determine which business will represent Avoca, eligible businesses and projects will submit a three-minute pitch video to Avoca Main Street by May 11, 2026. Videos will be reviewed by a committee of economic development experts, and applicants will be notified by the end of business day on May 12, 2026. The selected applicant will receive committee feedback and professional staff support to complete the state-wide application. Applications for the state competition must be submitted through the local program to Main Street Iowa by June 25. Main Street Iowa staff will evaluate applications based on project impact within the district, business innovation and the potential for growth, increased revenue and long-term sustainability. Five finalists will advance to the state competition on October 5 in Osceola, where they will pitch their ideas before a panel of judges. Open 4 Business launched in 2015 and has awarded funding to around 50 businesses across the state. Grants are administered through the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Downtown Resource Center and Main Street Iowa programs.
Volunteers are needed for the Wall That Heals -
The Wall that Heals is a program of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organization authorized by the US Congress in 1980 to build the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. to honor those who served in war. In November 1996, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund unveiled The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter exact replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial designed to travel throughout the United States. The Wall is the largest traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and is the only traveling display wholly owned and operated by a non-profit organization as well as the only accompanied by a mobile Education Center. Manning is one of only 31 communities across the United States selected to host The Wall That Heals in 2026 following a competitive process. Manning is honored to have been selected to host The Wall That Heals. This volunteer-driven event will welcome volunteers and visitors from across the region. It will be located at the IKM-Manning High School. There is no cost to visit. The Wall will be escorted into Manning on July 21st. The exhibit will be set during the day on July 22nd and volunteer training will take place at 6 pm. The wall will be open and accessible to the public 24 hours a day with a Welcome Home Ceremony at 6 pm on July 23rd. A Candle Vigil will be held at dusk on July 24th and a closing ceremony will take place at about 1:45 on July 26th. Hosting the Wall That Heals is a community wide effort. From start to finish they estimate it will take roughly 200 volunteers to host. Ways to volunteer, sponsor, support and attend can be found on their website at the wall that heals manning 2026 dot com.
Vietnam Veterans who died after returning home from Vietnam eligible to be honored at The Wall That Heals exhibit in Manning -
(2-5-26) - The Wall That Heals will be on display in Manning in 2026 and as part of the exhibit, local Vietnam Veterans who died after returning home are eligible to be honored as part of the In Memory Honor Roll display. Since the Vietnam War ended, thousands of Vietnam veterans have suffered due to Agent Orange exposure, PTSD and other illnesses as a result of their service. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) believes all those who served in Vietnam should be honored and remembered for their service. The In Memory program enables the families and friends of thosewho came home and later died the opportunity to have them be forever memorialized. All veterans from Iowa honored through In Memory will have their photos and names ondisplay as part of the mobile Education Center exhibit when The Wall That Heals is in Manning. If your loved one served in Vietnam, returned home and later died – we want to be able to proudly display their name and photo in our community. We’re asking for the public’s help to identify eligible veterans and get their applications into VVMF so their veteran can be on display in Manning.There is no cost to have a veteran honored and the application process is simple. To honor a loved one, you only need to complete a short application and submit the veteran’s DD214 showing their proof of service in Vietnam, a copy of their death certificate and two photographs.
For farm news and market information, visit www.brownfieldnetwork.com.
Upcoming events -
The Harlan Community Library has opened a Free Little Food Pantry, located in the entryway of the library. Help them out by dropping off your canned and dry goods. Check out the Library Facebook page for their hours.
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 2026 Fun China Luncheon will be held Wednesday, April 22nd from 11:30 to 12:30 at the Harlan Golf and Country Club Ballroom. Everyone is invited. The cost is $20 per person and seating reservations are required. For more information, contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry Office at 755-2114.
Upcoming Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Tuesday, April 28th - 8:30 am to 2:30 pm - Tri-Center High School in Neola
Noon to 6 pm - Portsmouth American Legion
Wednesday, April 29th - 7:30 am to 1:30 pm - Harlan Community High School
Thursday, April 30th - 8:30 am to 2:30 pm - Underwood High School
Tuesday, May 12th - 11:30 am to 5:30 pm - Veteran's Memorial Building in Harlan Call Sue for an appointment 579-8012.
LifeServe Donation Centers -
Monday, May 4th - 1 pm to 4:30 pm - Schleswig Community Building
Friday, May 8th - 10 am to 1:30 pm - Schleswig Community on May 4, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 4:30pm at 204 2nd Street, Schleswig
Friday, May 8th - 10 am to 1:30 pm - Ar-We-Va Community School on May 8, 2026 from 10:00 am to 1:30pm at 108 Clinton, Westside
Monday, May 11th - 12:30 pm to 5:45 pm for Denison Community at 100 Medical Parkway, Denison
Schedule your lifesaving appointment by visiting lifeservebloodcenter.org or by calling 800.287.4903.
Concerned, Inc of Harlan will be having a Fundraiser at the Harlan Pizza Hut at 2214 Lincoln Avenue in Harlan. Hours are from 11 am to 8 pm. Check out their Concerned Inc. Facebook page to find the flyer for the event. Print it out, and bring it in or mention it and Pizza Hut will donate 15% of the sales to Concerned, In.
The Hitchcock Pioneer Skills Festival will be held Saturday, May 2nd at the Hitchcock House west of Lewis. The festivities will begin at 1 pm and end at 4. You’ll have an opportunity to visit the historic Hitchcock House and see many of the skills and crafts that people of the late 1800’s used in daily living. Tour the house, then head out to the barn, the hub of the festival activities. Observe the skills and crafts of the past with rope making, candle dipping, tin punching and woodcarvings. There is a $5 fee for adults for a tour of the house. All activities in the barn are free of charge, but donations will be accepted.
Community Garden Plots are now available for any community member who would like to grow their own produce. Each plot measures 15 by 20 feet with a $20 fee for each plot and a $20 deposit is also required for a water key. All garden plots will be tilled and available on May 1st to begin planting. Call the Shelby County Extension and Outreach at 755-3104 for more information or to reserve your gardening plot.
The Harlan National Honor Society is partnering with Myrtue Medical Center for a 5K Color for a Cure at the Shelby County Fairgrounds, Sunday, May 3rd. Registration is at 3:30 pm with the Run at 4 and walk at 4:05 pm. Early bird sign up is $20. The day of the race its $25.
Relay for Life of Shelby County is scheduled for Friday, June 5th from 5 to 10 pm on the downtown Harlan Square.
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