TUESDAY - January 14th, 2019
Tuesday, January 14th, 2020
Today's Weather Outlook -
The wintry mix of snow and freezing drizzle across northern Iowa has ended this morning. Dense fog in the southwest that began in the evening has mixed out. Most visibilities have improved to 2 miles or greater early this morning. A few slick spots on the roads are still being reported north of U.S. Highway 20. Temperatures overnight rose slightly above freezing. For this morning, a few locations may see temperatures dip back down to just below freezing before the sun comes up. Quiet weather expected for today and tonight, with temperatures around normal to just below normal for most locations. A wintry precipitation mix is possible Wednesday morning. Forecast attention turns to Friday when a considerable winter storm is expected to bring a large amount of accumulating snow to Iowa.
Winter Storm targeting Iowa for this weekend -
The National Weather Service in Des Moines says they are still working out specific details, but are expecting a Winter Storm to greatly impact travel across Iowa on Friday. Exact snow amounts remain uncertain at this time, but 5+ inches is possible especially for northern and northeast Iowa. Minor to moderate storm impacts are expected across southwest and parts of far west/northwest Iowa, with moderate effects of the storm affecting much of central and west-central Iowa.
Winter Weather Advisory in effect for Shelby & area Counties tonight thru Wednesday morning -
Monona-Harrison-Shelby-Pottawattamie-Mills-Montgomery-Fremont-
Page Counties: WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 4 AM CST WEDNESDAY. Freezing drizzle expected. Total ice accumulations of a trace to 0.05 inches. Very slippery sidewalks, roads and bridges are possible. Slick spots may linger on untreated roadways, impacting the Wednesday morning commute.
Winter Weather Advisory for counties shaded in purple.
Sac-Crawford-Carroll-Audubon-Guthrie-Dallas-Cass-Adair-Madison Counties: WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 7 AM CST WEDNESDAY. Mainly areas of freezing drizzle. Brief period of light snow with the onset of precipitation expected with a dusting of snow accumulation possible. Ice accumulations of a light glaze are forecast.
Plan on slippery roads, bridges and sidewalks Wednesday morning. The hazardous conditions will impact the morning commute. Slow down and use caution while traveling.
January activities at Harlan Community Library -
Tuesday, January 14th - Noon-1 pm, Library and Lunch Book Club; 3-4 pm Tech Time; 4-5 pm, Libraries on the Go; 4 pm, Book Worms
The Iowa Community Kitchen will be open 4 to 6 pm, Tuesday, January 14th at the First Baptist Church on Chatburn in Harlan. They will be serving muffin pizza, a salad and a dessert. Everyone is welcome. The First Baptist Church is volunteering. Due to the rising cost of food and supplies, Iowa Community Kitchen will be charging a minimum of $3 per meal to eat in. If you can't afford the $3, then please ask about their new meal program. Children age 15 and under still eat free. All take-out meals are $3.
There will be a Ribbon Cutting and Open House from Tuesday, January 14th, 4 to 7 pm, at the Old Harlan Library, welcoming the Wandering Fig, Coffee Girl, a Yoga Studio, Photography Studio and small business offices.
Free tax preparation services will be available in Shelby County for low and moderate income taxpayers as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. For more information or to make an appointment, call on or after January 13th to 755-3104. Call between the hours of 8:30 and 4:30 Monday through Friday. After an appointment is scheduled, the taxpayer will receive a confirmation letter explaining what to bring to the appointment. The VITA program is open to Iowa residents with adjusted gross income below $57,000. In Shelby County, the VITA program is a joint effort of Shelby County Extension and Outreach and the Iowa Center for Economic Success. The program is financially supported by the Internal Revenue Service and the Iowa Department of Human Services.
Harlan Police Report – 1-14-20
The Harlan Police Department reports that on Monday, January 13th, 67 year old Larry Meurer of Harlan was arrested on an active Shelby County warrant. Meurer was transported to the Shelby County Jail where he was charged with harassment.
And on Friday, January 10th, 20 year old Elizabeth Nadine Smith of Plattsmouth, NE was arrested following a traffic stop. Smith was transported to the Shelby County Jail where she was charged with possession of a controlled substance.
Man asks judge’s permission for sword battle with ex-wife, lawyer from Harlan – AP
A Kansas man has asked an Iowa judge to let him engage in a sword fight with his ex-wife and her attorney so that he can “rend their souls” from their bodies. 40 year old David Ostrom of Paola Kansas said in a January 3rd court filing that his former wife, 38 year old Bridgette Ostrom of Harlan and her attorney, Matthew Hudson, had destroyed him legally. The Ostroms have been embroiled in disputes over custody and visitation issues and property tax payments. The judge had the power to let the parties resolve their disputes on the field of battle, legally, according to David Ostrom, adding in his filing that trial by combat has never been explicitly banned or restricted as a right in the United States. He also asked the judge for 12 weeks time so he could secure Japanese Samurai swords. His motion filed in Shelby County District Court stemmed from his frustrations with his ex-wife’s attorney, Ostrom told The Des Moines Register. Hudson argued in his legal response that because a duel could end in death, “such ramifications likely outweigh those of property tax and custody issues.” Hudson asked the judge to reject the request for trial by combat. Judge Craig Dreismeier said in his own filing Monday that he won’t be issuing a decisions anytime soon, citing irregularities with both sides’ motions and responses. “Until the proper procedural steps to initiate a court proceeding are followed, this court will take no further action concerning any motion, objection or petition filed by either party at this time,” the judge said.
Manning Safe Routes program receives funds from IA Transportation Commission -
The Iowa Transportation Commission has approved more than $1.3-million in funding for four statewide Iowa’s Transportation Alternatives Program projects. The program supports projects related to trails, Safe Routes to School initiatives, National Scenic Byways, and the preservation or rehabilitation of historic transportation facilities. Funding is available to cities, counties, school districts, or other eligible organizations through an annual application-based program.
Among the projects and approved funding amounts is the Manning Safe Routes to School program – South Phase I (Manning): $49,200.
Rollover accident south of Marne -
Marne Rescue and Medivac Ambulance were called to the scene of a rollover accident this morning. The incident happened at 590th and Fairview, south-southwest of Marne. According to dispatch reports, a vehicle rolled into a field. One person was said to be out of the vehicle, walking around. The accident was reported at 5:53 am. There were no injuries reported.
Condition of the State Address given this morning -
“Opportunity Lives Here” was the title of the annual “Condition of the State” message Governor Kim Reynolds delivered this morning and she’s asking legislators to raise one tax and lower others. Governor Kim Reynolds declared the condition of the state “truly strong” — but she cautioned lawmakers not to take that for granted and urged them to make plans for what Iowa can be for the next generation. Reynolds used the speech to unveil what she’s calling the “Invest in Iowa Act.” By raising the state sales tax by one percent, Reynolds says the state can significantly CUT income taxes across-the-board by 10 percent for all taxpayers — and by 25 percent for low-income Iowans.
Reynolds has no interest in raising taxes, so any increase in revenue from a sales tax must be more than offset by additional tax cuts. That starts with continuing to reduce our uncompetitive income-tax rates. Reynolds is also proposing a reduction in county property taxes. Today, counties use property taxes to pay for mental health services. Reynolds proposes having the state pick up 70 percent of those costs — using money from the sales tax hike. Another fraction of the new sales tax money would be deposited in a state fund for water quality and outdoor recreation programs. Part of her plan is to change a state law, so more of the new sales tax money is spent on improving water quality rather than on outdoor recreation projects, like bike trails. Reynolds has released a state budget plan as well. The governor proposes a two-and-a-half percent increase in general state aid for public K-through-12 schools. In her speech, Reynolds mentioned her request for an additional 20 million dollars for flood relief. Governor Reynolds is calling for changes in Iowa’s licensing system for plumbers, accountants and other professionals, people with ANOTHER state’s license do not have to go through the lengthy and expensive process of getting a license to practice in Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison -
United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced Tuesday, that 39-year old Dustin Shawn Morrison, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced in U-S District Court, to 12 and a half years in prison, for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. His sentence also includes a supervised term of release of five years, once he is released from prison. On April 26, 2019, law enforcement was conducting a routine check of parolees when officers stopped Morrison. Morrison was found in possession of a bag containing three pounds of methamphetamine. The case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, and the Iowa State Parole Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Torneton appointed to Southwest Regional STEM Advisory Board -
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced appointment to Iowa’s boards and commissions on Monday. Appointed to the Commission of Deaf Services was Chris Nepper of Council Bluffs, the Iowa Autism Council, Cheryl Mulligan of Shenandoah. These appointments are subject to senate confirmation.
Appointed to the Armory Board was Virginia Taylor of Exira. Appointed to the Southwest Regional STEM Advisory Board was Terry Torneton of Harlan, Nadine Jessen of Exira, Stephanie Lane of Creston and Deb Sprecker of Woodbine and appointed to the STEM Advisory Council was Barbara Crittenden of Creston. These appointments do not require Senate confirmation.
Cass County Sheriff’s report – 1-14-20
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office has had a busy month so far. On New Year’s Day, 58-year old Myron Lee Flathers, of Anita, was arrested on charges of Possession of Marijuana 3rd-Subsequent - a Class-D Felony and OWI 1st Offense. Flathers was taken to the Cass County Jail and released the following day on his own recognizance.
On Jan. 2nd, 22-year old Jessica James Harrison, of Dallas Center, was arrested in Cass County on charges of Possession of Marijuana - 1st Offense, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. James was taken to the Cass County Jail and released later on $1,000 bond.
Jan. 6th, 51-year old Lenny Lee Biggs, of Atlantic, was arrested on a Des Moines PD warrant. Biggs was taken to the Cass County Jail and later released to Des Moines authorities.
On January 7th, Cass County deputies arrested 19-year old Devin Joel Hilliard, of Council Bluffs, on two Sheriff’s Office warrants, one for four counts of Unauthorized Use of Credit Card, and one for Theft 5th Degree. Hilliard was taken to the Cass County Jail and released later that day on his own recognizance.
On Jan. 8th, an investigation into a single-vehicle accident on Highway 6 at the AT&T curve, resulted in the arrest of 67-year old Joseph Francis Emert, from Atlantic. Emert was arrested on a charge of OWI 1st Offense. He was taken to the Cass County Jail and released the following day on his own recognizance.
Last Thursday,January 9th, 41-year old Travis Lee Demey, of Carroll, was arrested on two District Court warrants for Probation Violation. Demey was taken to the Cass County Jail where he remains held on $20,000 bond.
On Monday, January 13th, deputies arrested 35-year old Allen Michael Shampang, of Atlantic, on a charge of Domestic Abuse Assault. Shampang was taken to the Cass County Jail and released later that day on $1,000 bond.
There were also four accidents over the past couple of weeks. Three of the incidents were weather-related, and took place on January 3rd. Authorities say at about 8:25 p.m. the Cass County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a one-vehicle weather-related accident on I-80 eastbound. A 2004 Toyota Tundra driven by 22-year old Ryker Lee Stabenow, of Marion, IA, exited the roadway and flipped into the south ditch. No injuries were reported. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $4,000. On Jan. 3rd at around 8:53 p.m., the Cass County Sheriff’s Office responded to a one-vehicle weather-related accident on I-80 eastbound. A 2004 Chevy Impala driven by 63-year old Vicki Jo Nelson-Forbes, of Woodland Park, CO, lost control on the snow-covered road, striking the cable barrier and coming to rest on the south side of the road. No injuries were reported. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $2,000.
And, at around 9:46 p.m., Jan. 3rd, deputies responded to a report of a single-vehicle accident on I-80 eastbound. A 2012 Chevy Cruze driven by 33-year old Charles Lawrence Elmore, of Bellevue, NE, slid into the south ditch and struck a pole. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $4,000. Minor injuries were reported. Upon investigation of the accident, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office arrested Elmore on a US Marshals warrant. Elmore was held at the Cass County Jail and later released to the US Marshals Service.
On January 8th at around 10:12-a.m., the Cass County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an accident at Richland Road and 750th Street. Officials say a 2007 Kenworth tractor-trailer driven by 58-year old Bobby Ray Jeanes, of Fontanelle, was turning southward onto 750th Street from Richland Road when the trailer began to roll, causing both the trailer and power unit to roll on its side on the west shoulder of 750th Street. No injuries were reported. Damage is estimated at $35,000. And, last Sunday at around 5:41-p.m. a single-vehicle, weather related accident happened on I-80 westbound at the 63 mile marker. A 2005 Ford Taurus driven by 19-year old Ethan J. Cherry, of Chicago, struck a guardrail and entered the north ditch. No injuries were reported. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $3,500.
Denison Man Sentenced To Up To 15 Years In Prison – Carroll Broadcasting -
30 year old Gerardo Emmanuel Medina of Denison has been ordered to serve up to 15 years in prison. The order against Medina was handed down Friday after he reached a plea agreement with prosecutors. Carroll Broadcasting reports Medina pled guilty to one count of possession of methamphetamine with the intent to deliver, a class C felony with a habitual offender enhancement, and carrying weapons, an aggravated misdemeanor. He was sentenced to up to 15 years on the trafficking charge and will not be eligible for parole until serving at least three years. For the aggravated misdemeanor, Medina was sentenced to two years in prison to be served concurrently with the 15-year prison term. In exchange for his guilty plea, one count of third-offense possession of marijuana, a class D felony, two counts of driving while barred, aggravated misdemeanors, and failure to provide proof of financial liability and fraudulent use of registration charges were dismissed. Medina was arrested by the Manning Police Department on March 6, 2019 after he was found in possession of nearly 6 grams of marijuana, 13 grams of methamphetamine, packaging materials and a switchblade knife.
Four people arrested in Mills County on drug charges -
Four people were arrested on drug charges in Mills County. The Mills County Sheriff’s Office says 25 year old Deondria Derice Carter of Schuyler, Nebraska, was arrested Saturday for Possession of a Controlled Substance. Bond was set at $1,000. 22 year old Justin Danielle Perez, of Glenwood, was arrested Sunday for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $1,300. 26 year old Brandon Lee Lambert, of Glenwood, was arrested Sunday for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $1,300. And 30 year old Anthony Charles Binau, Homeless, was arrested this morning for two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Prescription Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $3,300.
Trout stocking on Big Lake postponed -
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources trout stocking at Big Lake on January 18 has been postponed due to unsafe ice conditions. The stocking will be rescheduled as soon as there is safe ice or open water this spring, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources said in a release. Winter trout stockings are dependent on favorable weather and safe ice conditions. With this year’s mild winter weather, use caution when venturing out on any ice. Find tips for staying safe on the ice on the DNR website at iowadnr.gov/icefishing.
February 18th trial date set for suspect in C.B. double murder – Daily Nonpareil
The trial for 44 year old April Montello-Roberts of Shenandoah, the remaining suspect in a double murder, robbery and police chase in and near Council Bluffs is scheduled to begin on Feb. 18. She is currently being held on a $2.2 million bond at the Pottawattamie County Jail on charges of two counts of first-degree murder, first-degree robbery and first-degree burglary in connection with the killings, plus two counts of attempted murder of a peace officer, Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Deputy Ryan Olderog and Council Bluffs Police Officer Colby McCord. Montello-Roberts has a hearing coming up on Jan. 23, in which her attorney will try to make a case for suppressing evidence, which is the statement she gave to police in December. Both the hearing and the jury trial will be held at the Pottawattamie County Courthouse in Council Bluffs. During interrogation, Montello-Roberts told police that she and suspect 28 year old Troy E. Petersen, of Essex had discussed robbing and killing Jerrot Clark the day before the alleged murder took place on Aug. 4. A neighbor of Clark’s said she witnessed a male and female carrying items out of Clark’s home at about noon on the day of his murder. The description of the female matched that of Montello-Roberts, reports stated. The duo is also suspected of murdering Steve Carlson while breaking into his home on Aug. 7. Petersen reportedly fired a rifle round through a window, which struck Carlson. The man and woman then entered the home.
IRS Free File program now available -
Free tax filing of your 2019 return is now available from the Internal Revenue Service. I-R-S spokesperson Diane Fox says you can find the information on their website - I-R-S-dot-gov-slash-free-file and get started on your taxes. Free File does all the hard work for you. Frankly, it makes taxes less taxing in a lot of ways,” Fox says. She says the program is based on your income. Anyone who made 69-thousand dollars or less last year can use Free File. They even have a special offer for active duty military personnel. And they offer one product in Spanish. Fox says they have a variety of name brand Free File options. “It’s do it yourself software — but it leads people through — so that people don’t leave money on the table — that they get all the benefits that are available to them for their refund,” according to Fox. “And makes sure that it checks everything for them before they electronically file.” Fox says there is added benefit to going through the I-R-S site to get the Free File software. “You end up with the guardrails that we have in place for this program to make sure that you are getting the Free File program that has some protections for you,” she says. “In fact, we even have some of those protections listed on our website — so you can readily see what to expect when you are using the program.”
Fox says around 22-thousand people in Iowa used Free File last year. She says that is well below the number of people who are eligible to use the program.
Audubon School Board to act on ordering a special election for $7.5-million in Bonds -
The Audubon School District’s Board of Education will hold a brief, Special session this Wednesday morning. January 15th, to act on approving a Resolution Ordering an Election to be held in March on the issuance of $7.5-million in General Obligation Bonds. The meeting takes place 7:30-a.m. in the Boardroom at the Audubon High School.
If approved by voters in the Audubon Community School District, the bonds would be used to pay for a school improvement project at the high school, which was built over 50-years ago and saw an addition constructed in 2006. School officials have said the building is in need of a replacement HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system, as well as simple upgrades to classrooms. The School Board had previously decided to handle the projects all at once, in order to save money, as opposed to piecing work on the various projects out over a period of time. And, they voted to approve Denovo as the Construction Manager for the projects, which would begin in the Summer of 2021. Public meetings are planned to better explain the work needed, as well as the bond issue.
Shelby County Democratic Caucus to be held February 3rd -
The Shelby County Democratic Caucus is set to take place in sites across the county on Monday, February 3, 2020. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the caucus will begin at 7 p.m. Caucus members will elect central committee members, convention delegates and alternates, and develop the party platform. Iowa is first in the nation for the presidential selection process, and caucusing is the only way to register your preference in the presidential race. Anyone eligible to vote in Iowa can caucus. In order to participate, you must be registered as a Democrat and must be at least 18 years old by Nov. 3, 2020. You may register to vote or change your address or party affiliation on caucus night. You must caucus at the site for your precinct. The Iowa Democratic Party has a tool to locate your caucus site at https://iowademocrats.org/2020-caucuses/
Precinct Caucus locations for Shelby County Democrats are as follows:
Grove-Union-Westphalia: St. Joseph Hall, Earling
Douglas-Greeley-Jefferson-Polk: Kirkman Community Building
Cass-Center-Jackson-Lincoln: Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
Fairview-Shelby: Shelby Community Hall
Clay-Monroe: Elk Horn Town Hall
Harlan's ALL 4 Wards: Therkildsen Activity Center
If you have questions, need childcare or a ride, or would like to volunteer to help on caucus night, you may email Shelby County Democrats Co-chairs Ellen Walsh-Rosmann and Amber Mohr at shelbycountyiowademocrats@gmail.com
Laborshed Study to be conducted in Shelby County -
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry is partnering with Iowa Workforce Development and Iowa Economic Development Authority to complete a Laborshed employment study for the Shelby County area. This study will geographically define which communities contribute to Harlan’s workforce, regardless of political boundaries. This defined area is called a Laborshed area and is based upon commuting patterns.
The purpose of this Laborshed study is to measure the availability and characteristics of Harlan area workers. Laborshed studies are useful tools for economic development teams and existing or prospective employers to understand the local labor market, make informed expansion and site selection decisions, and maintain/recruit a high-quality workforce. For the success of this study, we will be sending letters to employers in Harlan asking that they provide us with aggregate counts of their employees’ residential ZIP codes. This will allow us to define a commuting pattern for the Harlan area and determine what the scope and scale of Harlan’s Laborshed area is and better understand where Harlan’s workforce resides.
A confidential survey of residents will also be conducted to collect workforce characteristic information specific to the area. Residents will receive a letter directing them how to take the survey online and/or they will receive a telephone call to take the survey. The survey call originates out of Cedar Rapids, IA, therefore, the incoming number will have the 319 area code. It is possible that you may receive a text message from their 888 number as well, alerting you to expect a call from them. Survey questions will cover topics such as: employment status, current and desired wages, current and desired benefits, education level, and type of occupation among other things. However, Iowa Workforce Development will not be asking survey takers identifiable information such as: name, social security number, or date of birth.
Every year Iowa Workforce Development conducts Laborshed studies across the State. The results of each analysis are publicly available online at www.iowalmi.gov/laborshed. If you have any questions about the Laborshed project, please contact Katie Lippold at 515-281-3035 or Todd Valline at 755-2114. Surveys and letters will be mailed to employers and residents starting the week of January 20th.
Citizen of the Year Nominees Requested by Shelby Co Chamber -
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry is looking for Shelby County Citizen of the Year nominees. Chamber Director Todd Valline is asking people to submit short paragraphs to the Chamber on citizens they believe deserve the award. “We’re looking for that longevity, you know, that person who’s just been involved and stays involved and does things around the community that just make everybody else’s life better throughout the community,” Valline told KNOD News Monday. Voting for Business of the Year and New Business of the Year will also be taking place. The winners will be announced during the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry Annual Banquet on Friday, February 28th, at the C.G. Therkldsen Center in Harlan.
Manning Finalist for Healthiest State Award -
Manning is among the finalists for the 2020 Healthiest State Annual Awards. They’re among seven communities looking to win the Healthy Hometown Powered by Wellmark Community Award. The Healthiest State Annual Awards are sponsored by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Hy-Vee, and Nemours. Award winners will be granted a monetary gift to continue their work focused on improving the health and well-being of their employees, students, or citizens. The winners will be announced on February 6th during the Healthiest State Annual Awards Ceremony in Des Moines.
Shelby, Harrison and Audubon County’s Community Foundation Spring Grant Program Now open -
The Shelby, Harrison and Audubon County’s Community Foundation is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted from organizations providing charitable services in those counties. As part of this spring grant cycle, approximately $115,000 is available to support Shelby, Harrison and Audubon County nonprofit organizations and community projects. The deadline to apply for funds through the online application process is February 1st. Beginning December 15th, application details, a fact sheet and a link to the application form can be found only by selection your county under the County Listing at swiowafoundations.org. Applications will only be accepted through the online system.
U.S. Census Bureau will start hiring in Iowa next month for 2020 count – Radio Iowa -
The federal government is launching a campaign to hire thousands of people across Iowa and the nation to help with the 2020 Census. The bureau’s Sam Fettig urges anyone who’s interested to apply right away. “There may only be a certain number of jobs in any given area, so once those jobs in a certain area are filled, they’re filled,” Fettig says. “So if someone’s interested, the sooner, the better to get that application in.” Fettig says workers go door-to-door to follow up when someone doesn’t respond to census questions on-line, by phone or on the paper form: “We’re hoping to hire really locally,” he says, “so that when someone comes knocking at your door, it’s someone you know and it’s someone who knows your community.” Fettig says work hours are flexible and the pay starts at 14-dollars an hour and is in some cases 16 or even 20-dollars an hour. “For someone even who might have a 9 to 5 job already, it’s a good way to get involved, to help your community, ensure that you have the federal resources and political representation for the next 10 years,” he says. Fettig says the application review and hiring process will begin in January. “It’s important that we hire workers who have connections in the community, who already have pre-existing relationships and trust,” he says. “To help bridge those gaps in understanding or to help address concerns, it really helps if we can hire from local communities.”
To apply, visit: 2020census.gov/jobs.
GriefShare Seminar and Support Group will meet Mondays now through March 23rd from 5:30 to 7 pm at the First Baptist Church in Harlan. For more information, call the church office at 755-2711.
January activities at Harlan Community Library -
Wednesday, January 15th - 10:30 am Story Time: Shapes and Colors; 10 am, Classic Movie: Fried Green Tomatoes
Thursday, January 16th - 6:30 pm Lego Challenge
Saturday, January 18th - 10 am Art for Kids
Monday, January 20th - 2 pm, Kid's Movie and Craft - Abominable
Tuesday, January 21st - 3-4 pm Tech Time; 4-5 pm, Libraries on the Go; 4 pm, Book Worms Youth Volunteers
Wednesday, January 22nd - 10:30 am, Story Time: A.A. Milne and Winnie the Pooh
Thursday, January 23rd - 5 pm, Adult Creative Writing; 6 pm, Iowa Habitats with Shelby County Conservationist Christina Roelofs
Saturday, January 25th - 10 am, Babies and Books, Baby Bouncy Time
Monday, January 27th - 12 Noon - OWLS: Older Wiser Learning Seniors at the Harlan Senior Center, History of the Sled
Tuesday, January 28th - 3-4 pm, Tech Time; 4-5 pm, Libraries on the Go; 4 pm, Book Worms Youth Volunteers
Wednesday, January 29th - 10:30 am, Story Time, Dinosaurs; 7 pm, 5 o'clock Somewhere Book Club
Thursday, January 30th - 6:30 pm, Family Fun Night - Amazing Library Race
Blood Donations Needed -
The American Red Cross is asking the public to kick off 2020 by doing something big: Give blood now to address the critical need for donations after the holidays. As a special thank-you, those who come to give now through January 19th, will be entered for a chance to win a trip to Super Bowl LIV!
Upcoming donation opportunities include:
Thursday, January 16th - noon to 6 pm - Atlantic YMCA
Tuesday, January 21st - Veteran's Memorial Building in Harlan - 11:30 to 5:30 Walk Ins are
welcome. For an appointment, call Sue at 755-5725 or visit RedCrossBlood.org
Wednesday, January 22nd - 11 to 5 pm - St. Boniface Parish Center in Westphalia.
Monday, January 27th - noon to 6 pm - Exira Recreational Center
Tuesday, January 28th - 11:30 am to 5:30 pm - Elk Horn Lutheran Church
Wednesday, January 29th - noon to 5:30 pm - Lewis Community Center
Thursday, January 30th - noon to 6 pm - Halbur Community Center
Be mindful and attend a mindful lunch: Supporting Mental Health in the workplace, Thursday, January 16th from 11 to 1 at Myrtue Medical Center's Auble Room. Join them for a look at mental health in the workplace. When employees are operating from a healthy place mentally, emotionally and socially, they are more motivated and engaged. This mindful lunch will empower business leaders, Human Resource representatives and company health and wellness coordinators with fresh ideas and resources to build engagement in your team. Please register by Tuesday, January 14th, 712/304-0164.
A Legislative Coffee will be held at 10 am, Saturday, January 18th. It will be hosted and sponsored by Town and Country Credit Union at 1414 Chatburn Avenue in Harlan.
Winter is a great time to look for animal signs. Tracks and scat can be very easy to see on top of the snow. Learn about track and scat identification and then go for a short hike to look for these things on Saturday, January 18 at 10:00 a.m. We will meet at the park office at Prairie Rose State Park. We will start out inside and then head outside. Please listen to KNOD or check the Friends of Prairie Rose Facebook page for any weather related announcements.
The Harlan Community Theater Planning Retreat will be held Saturday, January 18th, and Saturday, January 25th at 9 am at New Park Coffee in Harlan. Anyone interested in helping in the areas of directing, stage managing, set design, sound and lighting is invited to attend the meetings. No experience is necessary, only a will to learn and be involved. Auditions will be announced at a later date. Please RSVP or send questions to Kayla Weis at kweis@hcsdcyclones.com.
The Iowa Community Kitchen will be open 4 to 6 pm, Tuesday, January 21st at the First Baptist Church on Chatburn in Harlan. They will be serving spaghetti, garlic bread, a salad and a dessert. Everyone is welcome. A free will donation will be accepted. Harlan High School FFA is volunteering.
St. Patrick's Church in Neola will hold their annual Parish Auction, Saturday, January 25th. Mass will begin at 4 pm, the Staley's Chicken Dinner and raffle will begin at 4:30 pm and Live Auction will start at 6. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for those 8 and under.
The Iowa Community Kitchen will be open 4 to 6 pm, Tuesday, January 28th at the First Baptist Church on Chatburn in Harlan. They will be serving pancakes, biscuits and gravy, bacon, fruit and a dessert. Everyone is welcome. A free will donation will be accepted. The Congregational Church is volunteering.
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The Shelby County Cattlemen's Annual Banquet will be held on Saturday, February 1st at St. Mary's Hall in Panama. Social hour starts at 5 pm, with a New York Strip dinner starting at 6 pm. The annual meeting plus the Trophy and Scholarship Fund Auction will follow. Tickets are $15 and are available at the door.
An Immunization Clinic for Children will be held on Wednesday, February 5th, from 2 to 6 pm at the Community Health office in Harlan. Immunizations are free for children that qualify for the VFC program. If you have insurance that pays for immunizations, including Hawk-I, please call Myrtue Medical Clinic at 755-4516 to schedule an appointment there. Appointments are recommended to save time but not required. Walk-ins are welcome. Make appointments by calling 755-4422 or at shelbycountyclinics.com. Please ask for Cathy Buman if you have questions or need to make an appointment for a different day or time.
A Murder Mystery Event will be held Thursday, February 6th from 5:30 to 8 pm. It is hosted by the Harlan Community Library. Join them for a night of mystery. It takes place within the walls of the dark and tainted Deadwood Saloon. This is a free event, but you must reserve your spot by calling the library at 755-5934. Their night of mystery is much like a game of Clue and each attendee will be assigned a character. All attendees are encouraged to dress for the occasion. Dinner will be served during the event.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meet every month at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan. The meetings begin at 6:30 pm. The monthly meetings will be held on:
Thursday, February 13th
Thursday, March 12th
Thursday, April 2nd
Thursday, May 14th
Friday, February 28th is the date set for the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry Annual Awards Banquet at the C.G. Therkildsen Center in Harlan. It will be a night of great dining, fun, and the Annual Business Awards.
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The 34th annual Harlan Newspapers Home, Garden and Living Show will be held 10:30 am to 5 pm Saturday, March 28th, at Vet's Auditorium in Harlan. Admission is free
Today's Weather Outlook -
The wintry mix of snow and freezing drizzle across northern Iowa has ended this morning. Dense fog in the southwest that began in the evening has mixed out. Most visibilities have improved to 2 miles or greater early this morning. A few slick spots on the roads are still being reported north of U.S. Highway 20. Temperatures overnight rose slightly above freezing. For this morning, a few locations may see temperatures dip back down to just below freezing before the sun comes up. Quiet weather expected for today and tonight, with temperatures around normal to just below normal for most locations. A wintry precipitation mix is possible Wednesday morning. Forecast attention turns to Friday when a considerable winter storm is expected to bring a large amount of accumulating snow to Iowa.
Winter Storm targeting Iowa for this weekend -
The National Weather Service in Des Moines says they are still working out specific details, but are expecting a Winter Storm to greatly impact travel across Iowa on Friday. Exact snow amounts remain uncertain at this time, but 5+ inches is possible especially for northern and northeast Iowa. Minor to moderate storm impacts are expected across southwest and parts of far west/northwest Iowa, with moderate effects of the storm affecting much of central and west-central Iowa.
Winter Weather Advisory in effect for Shelby & area Counties tonight thru Wednesday morning -
Monona-Harrison-Shelby-Pottawattamie-Mills-Montgomery-Fremont-
Page Counties: WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 4 AM CST WEDNESDAY. Freezing drizzle expected. Total ice accumulations of a trace to 0.05 inches. Very slippery sidewalks, roads and bridges are possible. Slick spots may linger on untreated roadways, impacting the Wednesday morning commute.
Winter Weather Advisory for counties shaded in purple.
Sac-Crawford-Carroll-Audubon-Guthrie-Dallas-Cass-Adair-Madison Counties: WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 7 AM CST WEDNESDAY. Mainly areas of freezing drizzle. Brief period of light snow with the onset of precipitation expected with a dusting of snow accumulation possible. Ice accumulations of a light glaze are forecast.
Plan on slippery roads, bridges and sidewalks Wednesday morning. The hazardous conditions will impact the morning commute. Slow down and use caution while traveling.
January activities at Harlan Community Library -
Tuesday, January 14th - Noon-1 pm, Library and Lunch Book Club; 3-4 pm Tech Time; 4-5 pm, Libraries on the Go; 4 pm, Book Worms
The Iowa Community Kitchen will be open 4 to 6 pm, Tuesday, January 14th at the First Baptist Church on Chatburn in Harlan. They will be serving muffin pizza, a salad and a dessert. Everyone is welcome. The First Baptist Church is volunteering. Due to the rising cost of food and supplies, Iowa Community Kitchen will be charging a minimum of $3 per meal to eat in. If you can't afford the $3, then please ask about their new meal program. Children age 15 and under still eat free. All take-out meals are $3.
There will be a Ribbon Cutting and Open House from Tuesday, January 14th, 4 to 7 pm, at the Old Harlan Library, welcoming the Wandering Fig, Coffee Girl, a Yoga Studio, Photography Studio and small business offices.
Free tax preparation services will be available in Shelby County for low and moderate income taxpayers as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. For more information or to make an appointment, call on or after January 13th to 755-3104. Call between the hours of 8:30 and 4:30 Monday through Friday. After an appointment is scheduled, the taxpayer will receive a confirmation letter explaining what to bring to the appointment. The VITA program is open to Iowa residents with adjusted gross income below $57,000. In Shelby County, the VITA program is a joint effort of Shelby County Extension and Outreach and the Iowa Center for Economic Success. The program is financially supported by the Internal Revenue Service and the Iowa Department of Human Services.
Harlan Police Report – 1-14-20
The Harlan Police Department reports that on Monday, January 13th, 67 year old Larry Meurer of Harlan was arrested on an active Shelby County warrant. Meurer was transported to the Shelby County Jail where he was charged with harassment.
And on Friday, January 10th, 20 year old Elizabeth Nadine Smith of Plattsmouth, NE was arrested following a traffic stop. Smith was transported to the Shelby County Jail where she was charged with possession of a controlled substance.
Man asks judge’s permission for sword battle with ex-wife, lawyer from Harlan – AP
A Kansas man has asked an Iowa judge to let him engage in a sword fight with his ex-wife and her attorney so that he can “rend their souls” from their bodies. 40 year old David Ostrom of Paola Kansas said in a January 3rd court filing that his former wife, 38 year old Bridgette Ostrom of Harlan and her attorney, Matthew Hudson, had destroyed him legally. The Ostroms have been embroiled in disputes over custody and visitation issues and property tax payments. The judge had the power to let the parties resolve their disputes on the field of battle, legally, according to David Ostrom, adding in his filing that trial by combat has never been explicitly banned or restricted as a right in the United States. He also asked the judge for 12 weeks time so he could secure Japanese Samurai swords. His motion filed in Shelby County District Court stemmed from his frustrations with his ex-wife’s attorney, Ostrom told The Des Moines Register. Hudson argued in his legal response that because a duel could end in death, “such ramifications likely outweigh those of property tax and custody issues.” Hudson asked the judge to reject the request for trial by combat. Judge Craig Dreismeier said in his own filing Monday that he won’t be issuing a decisions anytime soon, citing irregularities with both sides’ motions and responses. “Until the proper procedural steps to initiate a court proceeding are followed, this court will take no further action concerning any motion, objection or petition filed by either party at this time,” the judge said.
Manning Safe Routes program receives funds from IA Transportation Commission -
The Iowa Transportation Commission has approved more than $1.3-million in funding for four statewide Iowa’s Transportation Alternatives Program projects. The program supports projects related to trails, Safe Routes to School initiatives, National Scenic Byways, and the preservation or rehabilitation of historic transportation facilities. Funding is available to cities, counties, school districts, or other eligible organizations through an annual application-based program.
Among the projects and approved funding amounts is the Manning Safe Routes to School program – South Phase I (Manning): $49,200.
Rollover accident south of Marne -
Marne Rescue and Medivac Ambulance were called to the scene of a rollover accident this morning. The incident happened at 590th and Fairview, south-southwest of Marne. According to dispatch reports, a vehicle rolled into a field. One person was said to be out of the vehicle, walking around. The accident was reported at 5:53 am. There were no injuries reported.
Condition of the State Address given this morning -
“Opportunity Lives Here” was the title of the annual “Condition of the State” message Governor Kim Reynolds delivered this morning and she’s asking legislators to raise one tax and lower others. Governor Kim Reynolds declared the condition of the state “truly strong” — but she cautioned lawmakers not to take that for granted and urged them to make plans for what Iowa can be for the next generation. Reynolds used the speech to unveil what she’s calling the “Invest in Iowa Act.” By raising the state sales tax by one percent, Reynolds says the state can significantly CUT income taxes across-the-board by 10 percent for all taxpayers — and by 25 percent for low-income Iowans.
Reynolds has no interest in raising taxes, so any increase in revenue from a sales tax must be more than offset by additional tax cuts. That starts with continuing to reduce our uncompetitive income-tax rates. Reynolds is also proposing a reduction in county property taxes. Today, counties use property taxes to pay for mental health services. Reynolds proposes having the state pick up 70 percent of those costs — using money from the sales tax hike. Another fraction of the new sales tax money would be deposited in a state fund for water quality and outdoor recreation programs. Part of her plan is to change a state law, so more of the new sales tax money is spent on improving water quality rather than on outdoor recreation projects, like bike trails. Reynolds has released a state budget plan as well. The governor proposes a two-and-a-half percent increase in general state aid for public K-through-12 schools. In her speech, Reynolds mentioned her request for an additional 20 million dollars for flood relief. Governor Reynolds is calling for changes in Iowa’s licensing system for plumbers, accountants and other professionals, people with ANOTHER state’s license do not have to go through the lengthy and expensive process of getting a license to practice in Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison -
United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced Tuesday, that 39-year old Dustin Shawn Morrison, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced in U-S District Court, to 12 and a half years in prison, for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. His sentence also includes a supervised term of release of five years, once he is released from prison. On April 26, 2019, law enforcement was conducting a routine check of parolees when officers stopped Morrison. Morrison was found in possession of a bag containing three pounds of methamphetamine. The case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, and the Iowa State Parole Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Torneton appointed to Southwest Regional STEM Advisory Board -
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced appointment to Iowa’s boards and commissions on Monday. Appointed to the Commission of Deaf Services was Chris Nepper of Council Bluffs, the Iowa Autism Council, Cheryl Mulligan of Shenandoah. These appointments are subject to senate confirmation.
Appointed to the Armory Board was Virginia Taylor of Exira. Appointed to the Southwest Regional STEM Advisory Board was Terry Torneton of Harlan, Nadine Jessen of Exira, Stephanie Lane of Creston and Deb Sprecker of Woodbine and appointed to the STEM Advisory Council was Barbara Crittenden of Creston. These appointments do not require Senate confirmation.
Cass County Sheriff’s report – 1-14-20
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office has had a busy month so far. On New Year’s Day, 58-year old Myron Lee Flathers, of Anita, was arrested on charges of Possession of Marijuana 3rd-Subsequent - a Class-D Felony and OWI 1st Offense. Flathers was taken to the Cass County Jail and released the following day on his own recognizance.
On Jan. 2nd, 22-year old Jessica James Harrison, of Dallas Center, was arrested in Cass County on charges of Possession of Marijuana - 1st Offense, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. James was taken to the Cass County Jail and released later on $1,000 bond.
Jan. 6th, 51-year old Lenny Lee Biggs, of Atlantic, was arrested on a Des Moines PD warrant. Biggs was taken to the Cass County Jail and later released to Des Moines authorities.
On January 7th, Cass County deputies arrested 19-year old Devin Joel Hilliard, of Council Bluffs, on two Sheriff’s Office warrants, one for four counts of Unauthorized Use of Credit Card, and one for Theft 5th Degree. Hilliard was taken to the Cass County Jail and released later that day on his own recognizance.
On Jan. 8th, an investigation into a single-vehicle accident on Highway 6 at the AT&T curve, resulted in the arrest of 67-year old Joseph Francis Emert, from Atlantic. Emert was arrested on a charge of OWI 1st Offense. He was taken to the Cass County Jail and released the following day on his own recognizance.
Last Thursday,January 9th, 41-year old Travis Lee Demey, of Carroll, was arrested on two District Court warrants for Probation Violation. Demey was taken to the Cass County Jail where he remains held on $20,000 bond.
On Monday, January 13th, deputies arrested 35-year old Allen Michael Shampang, of Atlantic, on a charge of Domestic Abuse Assault. Shampang was taken to the Cass County Jail and released later that day on $1,000 bond.
There were also four accidents over the past couple of weeks. Three of the incidents were weather-related, and took place on January 3rd. Authorities say at about 8:25 p.m. the Cass County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a one-vehicle weather-related accident on I-80 eastbound. A 2004 Toyota Tundra driven by 22-year old Ryker Lee Stabenow, of Marion, IA, exited the roadway and flipped into the south ditch. No injuries were reported. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $4,000. On Jan. 3rd at around 8:53 p.m., the Cass County Sheriff’s Office responded to a one-vehicle weather-related accident on I-80 eastbound. A 2004 Chevy Impala driven by 63-year old Vicki Jo Nelson-Forbes, of Woodland Park, CO, lost control on the snow-covered road, striking the cable barrier and coming to rest on the south side of the road. No injuries were reported. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $2,000.
And, at around 9:46 p.m., Jan. 3rd, deputies responded to a report of a single-vehicle accident on I-80 eastbound. A 2012 Chevy Cruze driven by 33-year old Charles Lawrence Elmore, of Bellevue, NE, slid into the south ditch and struck a pole. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $4,000. Minor injuries were reported. Upon investigation of the accident, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office arrested Elmore on a US Marshals warrant. Elmore was held at the Cass County Jail and later released to the US Marshals Service.
On January 8th at around 10:12-a.m., the Cass County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an accident at Richland Road and 750th Street. Officials say a 2007 Kenworth tractor-trailer driven by 58-year old Bobby Ray Jeanes, of Fontanelle, was turning southward onto 750th Street from Richland Road when the trailer began to roll, causing both the trailer and power unit to roll on its side on the west shoulder of 750th Street. No injuries were reported. Damage is estimated at $35,000. And, last Sunday at around 5:41-p.m. a single-vehicle, weather related accident happened on I-80 westbound at the 63 mile marker. A 2005 Ford Taurus driven by 19-year old Ethan J. Cherry, of Chicago, struck a guardrail and entered the north ditch. No injuries were reported. Damage to the vehicle was estimated at $3,500.
Denison Man Sentenced To Up To 15 Years In Prison – Carroll Broadcasting -
30 year old Gerardo Emmanuel Medina of Denison has been ordered to serve up to 15 years in prison. The order against Medina was handed down Friday after he reached a plea agreement with prosecutors. Carroll Broadcasting reports Medina pled guilty to one count of possession of methamphetamine with the intent to deliver, a class C felony with a habitual offender enhancement, and carrying weapons, an aggravated misdemeanor. He was sentenced to up to 15 years on the trafficking charge and will not be eligible for parole until serving at least three years. For the aggravated misdemeanor, Medina was sentenced to two years in prison to be served concurrently with the 15-year prison term. In exchange for his guilty plea, one count of third-offense possession of marijuana, a class D felony, two counts of driving while barred, aggravated misdemeanors, and failure to provide proof of financial liability and fraudulent use of registration charges were dismissed. Medina was arrested by the Manning Police Department on March 6, 2019 after he was found in possession of nearly 6 grams of marijuana, 13 grams of methamphetamine, packaging materials and a switchblade knife.
Four people arrested in Mills County on drug charges -
Four people were arrested on drug charges in Mills County. The Mills County Sheriff’s Office says 25 year old Deondria Derice Carter of Schuyler, Nebraska, was arrested Saturday for Possession of a Controlled Substance. Bond was set at $1,000. 22 year old Justin Danielle Perez, of Glenwood, was arrested Sunday for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $1,300. 26 year old Brandon Lee Lambert, of Glenwood, was arrested Sunday for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $1,300. And 30 year old Anthony Charles Binau, Homeless, was arrested this morning for two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Prescription Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $3,300.
Trout stocking on Big Lake postponed -
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources trout stocking at Big Lake on January 18 has been postponed due to unsafe ice conditions. The stocking will be rescheduled as soon as there is safe ice or open water this spring, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources said in a release. Winter trout stockings are dependent on favorable weather and safe ice conditions. With this year’s mild winter weather, use caution when venturing out on any ice. Find tips for staying safe on the ice on the DNR website at iowadnr.gov/icefishing.
February 18th trial date set for suspect in C.B. double murder – Daily Nonpareil
The trial for 44 year old April Montello-Roberts of Shenandoah, the remaining suspect in a double murder, robbery and police chase in and near Council Bluffs is scheduled to begin on Feb. 18. She is currently being held on a $2.2 million bond at the Pottawattamie County Jail on charges of two counts of first-degree murder, first-degree robbery and first-degree burglary in connection with the killings, plus two counts of attempted murder of a peace officer, Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Deputy Ryan Olderog and Council Bluffs Police Officer Colby McCord. Montello-Roberts has a hearing coming up on Jan. 23, in which her attorney will try to make a case for suppressing evidence, which is the statement she gave to police in December. Both the hearing and the jury trial will be held at the Pottawattamie County Courthouse in Council Bluffs. During interrogation, Montello-Roberts told police that she and suspect 28 year old Troy E. Petersen, of Essex had discussed robbing and killing Jerrot Clark the day before the alleged murder took place on Aug. 4. A neighbor of Clark’s said she witnessed a male and female carrying items out of Clark’s home at about noon on the day of his murder. The description of the female matched that of Montello-Roberts, reports stated. The duo is also suspected of murdering Steve Carlson while breaking into his home on Aug. 7. Petersen reportedly fired a rifle round through a window, which struck Carlson. The man and woman then entered the home.
IRS Free File program now available -
Free tax filing of your 2019 return is now available from the Internal Revenue Service. I-R-S spokesperson Diane Fox says you can find the information on their website - I-R-S-dot-gov-slash-free-file and get started on your taxes. Free File does all the hard work for you. Frankly, it makes taxes less taxing in a lot of ways,” Fox says. She says the program is based on your income. Anyone who made 69-thousand dollars or less last year can use Free File. They even have a special offer for active duty military personnel. And they offer one product in Spanish. Fox says they have a variety of name brand Free File options. “It’s do it yourself software — but it leads people through — so that people don’t leave money on the table — that they get all the benefits that are available to them for their refund,” according to Fox. “And makes sure that it checks everything for them before they electronically file.” Fox says there is added benefit to going through the I-R-S site to get the Free File software. “You end up with the guardrails that we have in place for this program to make sure that you are getting the Free File program that has some protections for you,” she says. “In fact, we even have some of those protections listed on our website — so you can readily see what to expect when you are using the program.”
Fox says around 22-thousand people in Iowa used Free File last year. She says that is well below the number of people who are eligible to use the program.
Audubon School Board to act on ordering a special election for $7.5-million in Bonds -
The Audubon School District’s Board of Education will hold a brief, Special session this Wednesday morning. January 15th, to act on approving a Resolution Ordering an Election to be held in March on the issuance of $7.5-million in General Obligation Bonds. The meeting takes place 7:30-a.m. in the Boardroom at the Audubon High School.
If approved by voters in the Audubon Community School District, the bonds would be used to pay for a school improvement project at the high school, which was built over 50-years ago and saw an addition constructed in 2006. School officials have said the building is in need of a replacement HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system, as well as simple upgrades to classrooms. The School Board had previously decided to handle the projects all at once, in order to save money, as opposed to piecing work on the various projects out over a period of time. And, they voted to approve Denovo as the Construction Manager for the projects, which would begin in the Summer of 2021. Public meetings are planned to better explain the work needed, as well as the bond issue.
Shelby County Democratic Caucus to be held February 3rd -
The Shelby County Democratic Caucus is set to take place in sites across the county on Monday, February 3, 2020. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the caucus will begin at 7 p.m. Caucus members will elect central committee members, convention delegates and alternates, and develop the party platform. Iowa is first in the nation for the presidential selection process, and caucusing is the only way to register your preference in the presidential race. Anyone eligible to vote in Iowa can caucus. In order to participate, you must be registered as a Democrat and must be at least 18 years old by Nov. 3, 2020. You may register to vote or change your address or party affiliation on caucus night. You must caucus at the site for your precinct. The Iowa Democratic Party has a tool to locate your caucus site at https://iowademocrats.org/2020-caucuses/
Precinct Caucus locations for Shelby County Democrats are as follows:
Grove-Union-Westphalia: St. Joseph Hall, Earling
Douglas-Greeley-Jefferson-Polk: Kirkman Community Building
Cass-Center-Jackson-Lincoln: Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
Fairview-Shelby: Shelby Community Hall
Clay-Monroe: Elk Horn Town Hall
Harlan's ALL 4 Wards: Therkildsen Activity Center
If you have questions, need childcare or a ride, or would like to volunteer to help on caucus night, you may email Shelby County Democrats Co-chairs Ellen Walsh-Rosmann and Amber Mohr at shelbycountyiowademocrats@gmail.com
Laborshed Study to be conducted in Shelby County -
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry is partnering with Iowa Workforce Development and Iowa Economic Development Authority to complete a Laborshed employment study for the Shelby County area. This study will geographically define which communities contribute to Harlan’s workforce, regardless of political boundaries. This defined area is called a Laborshed area and is based upon commuting patterns.
The purpose of this Laborshed study is to measure the availability and characteristics of Harlan area workers. Laborshed studies are useful tools for economic development teams and existing or prospective employers to understand the local labor market, make informed expansion and site selection decisions, and maintain/recruit a high-quality workforce. For the success of this study, we will be sending letters to employers in Harlan asking that they provide us with aggregate counts of their employees’ residential ZIP codes. This will allow us to define a commuting pattern for the Harlan area and determine what the scope and scale of Harlan’s Laborshed area is and better understand where Harlan’s workforce resides.
A confidential survey of residents will also be conducted to collect workforce characteristic information specific to the area. Residents will receive a letter directing them how to take the survey online and/or they will receive a telephone call to take the survey. The survey call originates out of Cedar Rapids, IA, therefore, the incoming number will have the 319 area code. It is possible that you may receive a text message from their 888 number as well, alerting you to expect a call from them. Survey questions will cover topics such as: employment status, current and desired wages, current and desired benefits, education level, and type of occupation among other things. However, Iowa Workforce Development will not be asking survey takers identifiable information such as: name, social security number, or date of birth.
Every year Iowa Workforce Development conducts Laborshed studies across the State. The results of each analysis are publicly available online at www.iowalmi.gov/laborshed. If you have any questions about the Laborshed project, please contact Katie Lippold at 515-281-3035 or Todd Valline at 755-2114. Surveys and letters will be mailed to employers and residents starting the week of January 20th.
Citizen of the Year Nominees Requested by Shelby Co Chamber -
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry is looking for Shelby County Citizen of the Year nominees. Chamber Director Todd Valline is asking people to submit short paragraphs to the Chamber on citizens they believe deserve the award. “We’re looking for that longevity, you know, that person who’s just been involved and stays involved and does things around the community that just make everybody else’s life better throughout the community,” Valline told KNOD News Monday. Voting for Business of the Year and New Business of the Year will also be taking place. The winners will be announced during the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry Annual Banquet on Friday, February 28th, at the C.G. Therkldsen Center in Harlan.
Manning Finalist for Healthiest State Award -
Manning is among the finalists for the 2020 Healthiest State Annual Awards. They’re among seven communities looking to win the Healthy Hometown Powered by Wellmark Community Award. The Healthiest State Annual Awards are sponsored by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Hy-Vee, and Nemours. Award winners will be granted a monetary gift to continue their work focused on improving the health and well-being of their employees, students, or citizens. The winners will be announced on February 6th during the Healthiest State Annual Awards Ceremony in Des Moines.
Shelby, Harrison and Audubon County’s Community Foundation Spring Grant Program Now open -
The Shelby, Harrison and Audubon County’s Community Foundation is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted from organizations providing charitable services in those counties. As part of this spring grant cycle, approximately $115,000 is available to support Shelby, Harrison and Audubon County nonprofit organizations and community projects. The deadline to apply for funds through the online application process is February 1st. Beginning December 15th, application details, a fact sheet and a link to the application form can be found only by selection your county under the County Listing at swiowafoundations.org. Applications will only be accepted through the online system.
U.S. Census Bureau will start hiring in Iowa next month for 2020 count – Radio Iowa -
The federal government is launching a campaign to hire thousands of people across Iowa and the nation to help with the 2020 Census. The bureau’s Sam Fettig urges anyone who’s interested to apply right away. “There may only be a certain number of jobs in any given area, so once those jobs in a certain area are filled, they’re filled,” Fettig says. “So if someone’s interested, the sooner, the better to get that application in.” Fettig says workers go door-to-door to follow up when someone doesn’t respond to census questions on-line, by phone or on the paper form: “We’re hoping to hire really locally,” he says, “so that when someone comes knocking at your door, it’s someone you know and it’s someone who knows your community.” Fettig says work hours are flexible and the pay starts at 14-dollars an hour and is in some cases 16 or even 20-dollars an hour. “For someone even who might have a 9 to 5 job already, it’s a good way to get involved, to help your community, ensure that you have the federal resources and political representation for the next 10 years,” he says. Fettig says the application review and hiring process will begin in January. “It’s important that we hire workers who have connections in the community, who already have pre-existing relationships and trust,” he says. “To help bridge those gaps in understanding or to help address concerns, it really helps if we can hire from local communities.”
To apply, visit: 2020census.gov/jobs.
GriefShare Seminar and Support Group will meet Mondays now through March 23rd from 5:30 to 7 pm at the First Baptist Church in Harlan. For more information, call the church office at 755-2711.
January activities at Harlan Community Library -
Wednesday, January 15th - 10:30 am Story Time: Shapes and Colors; 10 am, Classic Movie: Fried Green Tomatoes
Thursday, January 16th - 6:30 pm Lego Challenge
Saturday, January 18th - 10 am Art for Kids
Monday, January 20th - 2 pm, Kid's Movie and Craft - Abominable
Tuesday, January 21st - 3-4 pm Tech Time; 4-5 pm, Libraries on the Go; 4 pm, Book Worms Youth Volunteers
Wednesday, January 22nd - 10:30 am, Story Time: A.A. Milne and Winnie the Pooh
Thursday, January 23rd - 5 pm, Adult Creative Writing; 6 pm, Iowa Habitats with Shelby County Conservationist Christina Roelofs
Saturday, January 25th - 10 am, Babies and Books, Baby Bouncy Time
Monday, January 27th - 12 Noon - OWLS: Older Wiser Learning Seniors at the Harlan Senior Center, History of the Sled
Tuesday, January 28th - 3-4 pm, Tech Time; 4-5 pm, Libraries on the Go; 4 pm, Book Worms Youth Volunteers
Wednesday, January 29th - 10:30 am, Story Time, Dinosaurs; 7 pm, 5 o'clock Somewhere Book Club
Thursday, January 30th - 6:30 pm, Family Fun Night - Amazing Library Race
Blood Donations Needed -
The American Red Cross is asking the public to kick off 2020 by doing something big: Give blood now to address the critical need for donations after the holidays. As a special thank-you, those who come to give now through January 19th, will be entered for a chance to win a trip to Super Bowl LIV!
Upcoming donation opportunities include:
Thursday, January 16th - noon to 6 pm - Atlantic YMCA
Tuesday, January 21st - Veteran's Memorial Building in Harlan - 11:30 to 5:30 Walk Ins are
welcome. For an appointment, call Sue at 755-5725 or visit RedCrossBlood.org
Wednesday, January 22nd - 11 to 5 pm - St. Boniface Parish Center in Westphalia.
Monday, January 27th - noon to 6 pm - Exira Recreational Center
Tuesday, January 28th - 11:30 am to 5:30 pm - Elk Horn Lutheran Church
Wednesday, January 29th - noon to 5:30 pm - Lewis Community Center
Thursday, January 30th - noon to 6 pm - Halbur Community Center
Be mindful and attend a mindful lunch: Supporting Mental Health in the workplace, Thursday, January 16th from 11 to 1 at Myrtue Medical Center's Auble Room. Join them for a look at mental health in the workplace. When employees are operating from a healthy place mentally, emotionally and socially, they are more motivated and engaged. This mindful lunch will empower business leaders, Human Resource representatives and company health and wellness coordinators with fresh ideas and resources to build engagement in your team. Please register by Tuesday, January 14th, 712/304-0164.
A Legislative Coffee will be held at 10 am, Saturday, January 18th. It will be hosted and sponsored by Town and Country Credit Union at 1414 Chatburn Avenue in Harlan.
Winter is a great time to look for animal signs. Tracks and scat can be very easy to see on top of the snow. Learn about track and scat identification and then go for a short hike to look for these things on Saturday, January 18 at 10:00 a.m. We will meet at the park office at Prairie Rose State Park. We will start out inside and then head outside. Please listen to KNOD or check the Friends of Prairie Rose Facebook page for any weather related announcements.
The Harlan Community Theater Planning Retreat will be held Saturday, January 18th, and Saturday, January 25th at 9 am at New Park Coffee in Harlan. Anyone interested in helping in the areas of directing, stage managing, set design, sound and lighting is invited to attend the meetings. No experience is necessary, only a will to learn and be involved. Auditions will be announced at a later date. Please RSVP or send questions to Kayla Weis at kweis@hcsdcyclones.com.
The Iowa Community Kitchen will be open 4 to 6 pm, Tuesday, January 21st at the First Baptist Church on Chatburn in Harlan. They will be serving spaghetti, garlic bread, a salad and a dessert. Everyone is welcome. A free will donation will be accepted. Harlan High School FFA is volunteering.
St. Patrick's Church in Neola will hold their annual Parish Auction, Saturday, January 25th. Mass will begin at 4 pm, the Staley's Chicken Dinner and raffle will begin at 4:30 pm and Live Auction will start at 6. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for those 8 and under.
The Iowa Community Kitchen will be open 4 to 6 pm, Tuesday, January 28th at the First Baptist Church on Chatburn in Harlan. They will be serving pancakes, biscuits and gravy, bacon, fruit and a dessert. Everyone is welcome. A free will donation will be accepted. The Congregational Church is volunteering.
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The Shelby County Cattlemen's Annual Banquet will be held on Saturday, February 1st at St. Mary's Hall in Panama. Social hour starts at 5 pm, with a New York Strip dinner starting at 6 pm. The annual meeting plus the Trophy and Scholarship Fund Auction will follow. Tickets are $15 and are available at the door.
An Immunization Clinic for Children will be held on Wednesday, February 5th, from 2 to 6 pm at the Community Health office in Harlan. Immunizations are free for children that qualify for the VFC program. If you have insurance that pays for immunizations, including Hawk-I, please call Myrtue Medical Clinic at 755-4516 to schedule an appointment there. Appointments are recommended to save time but not required. Walk-ins are welcome. Make appointments by calling 755-4422 or at shelbycountyclinics.com. Please ask for Cathy Buman if you have questions or need to make an appointment for a different day or time.
A Murder Mystery Event will be held Thursday, February 6th from 5:30 to 8 pm. It is hosted by the Harlan Community Library. Join them for a night of mystery. It takes place within the walls of the dark and tainted Deadwood Saloon. This is a free event, but you must reserve your spot by calling the library at 755-5934. Their night of mystery is much like a game of Clue and each attendee will be assigned a character. All attendees are encouraged to dress for the occasion. Dinner will be served during the event.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meet every month at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Harlan. The meetings begin at 6:30 pm. The monthly meetings will be held on:
Thursday, February 13th
Thursday, March 12th
Thursday, April 2nd
Thursday, May 14th
Friday, February 28th is the date set for the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry Annual Awards Banquet at the C.G. Therkildsen Center in Harlan. It will be a night of great dining, fun, and the Annual Business Awards.
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The 34th annual Harlan Newspapers Home, Garden and Living Show will be held 10:30 am to 5 pm Saturday, March 28th, at Vet's Auditorium in Harlan. Admission is free
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