news archives - Wednesday |
Wednesday, May 14th, 2025
Possibility of thunderstorms tonight -
(5-14-25) - A few severe thunderstorms appear possible after 9 PM, mainly north of U.S. 20 in northeast Nebraska. Damaging winds will be the main hazard, with isolated occurrences of large hail, and perhaps a brief tornado or two also possible. Locally heavy rain may also occur.
Thursday through Tuesday - Strong westerly winds gusting 40 to 45 mph are likely Thursday, which could lead to some fire weather concerns in portions of northeast Nebraska. Showers and thunderstorms are possible from late Saturday night through Tuesday. Multiple episodes of severe weather appear possible from Sunday night through Tuesday. Localized flooding may also become a concern.
Townhall meeting in Exira tonight -
(5-14-25) - The City of Exira will be hosting a town hall meeting tonight to discuss next steps regarding the low water levels and the regional boil advisory in place for customers with Regional Water Rural Water Association (RWRWA). This past weekend, RWRWA issued a boil order for customers throughout the area, which includes rural residents in southern Audubon County and the cities of Brayton and Exira. This follows an extended Level Yellow Drinking Water Advisory, due to increase demand water usage with below normal levels in RWRWA’s wellfield. The meeting will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Exira Event Center, to discuss a timeline of regional and city water and to answer any questions that attendees may have.
HMU celebrating 30 years in telecommunications -
Come help HMU celebrate 30 years in the telecommunications industry, Thursday, May 15th. Stop in at the office for cookies and popcorn and to check out their new IPTV offering available in July. You’ll now be able to record programs in the cloud without any bulky equipment, have access to programming, sports and activities from other communities within their new partnership and keep the program you currently have. Celebrate 30 years in telecommunications Thursday, May 15th at the HMU offices from 8 to 3:30.
A Mental Health Action Community Walk will be held Thursday. May 15th 5:30 to 7 pm at Pioneer Park in Harlan. The walk includes a resource fair during the evening's events. Everyone will have a resource table placed along the path. There will be a short program featuring a special guest speaker with live music and food trucks. In case of inclement weather, the walk will be held at the Harlan Community Primary School.
40th year for Relay for Life -
(5-1-25) – Relay for Life has had 40 years of impact. Relay for Life of Shelby County will be held Friday, May 30th on the Harlan Courthouse Square. Opening ceremonies will start at 5 pm with the Kids Zone, Concessions and games. At 6 pm, the Survivor and Caregiver Ceremony will begin and there will be a Pie Auction at 6:30 pm. Entertainment will be held from 7 to 9 pm and the Luminaria Ceremony will begin at 9 pm. Now is the time to become an event sponsor, start or join a fundraising team. Join the Relay for Life Event Leadership Team, invite cancer survivors and their caregivers to register, donate a pie for the auction or share a talent and sign up as a day of the event volunteer.
Crop Report -
(5-13-25) - A warm and dry week made for excellent planting conditions, allowing 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending May 11, 2025. Producers made quick progress planting corn and soybeans. Conditions were also favorable for spraying.
Topsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 22 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 24 percent short, 67 percent adequate and 4 percent surplus.
Corn planted reached 76 percent 8 days ahead of last year and 3 days ahead of the 5-year average. Corn emerged reached 30 percent, 4 days ahead of last year’s pace and 2 days ahead of normal. Sixty-four percent of the expected soybean crop has been planted, 10 days ahead of last year and 5 days ahead of the 5-year average. Soybeans emerged reached 16 percent. Nearly all of the oat crop has been planted, with 74 percent emerged, 3 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of normal. Reports of oats starting to head were received. Oat condition rated 85 percent good to excellent, up 6 percentage points from last week.
Six percent of the State’s first cutting of alfalfa hay has been completed. The first hay rating of the year showed 84 percent in good to excellent condition. Pasture condition rated 64 percent good to excellent, up 4 percentage points from last week. Livestock were reported to be in good condition with some cows and calves turned out on grass.
Montgomery County News -
(5-14-25) - At around 10:45 this morning, officers with the Red Oak Police Department arrested Michael Hohl on an active Red Oak Police Department warrant for Criminal Mischief in the 5th Degree. The arrest occurred in the 900 block of N 4th Street. Hohl was transported to the Montgomery County Jail where he was being held on a $300 bond.
(5-13-25) - On Monday, May 12th, officers with the Red Oak Police Department arrested 31 year old Joshua Michael Lowe of Red Oak for Assault with a deadly weapon, an aggravated misdemeanor and possession of drug paraphernalia, a simple misdemeanor. Lowe was transported to the Montgomery County Jail and was being held on $2000 bond.
Monona County Woman Pleads Not Guilty to Boyfriend’s Fatal Stabbing –
(5-14-25) – 46 year old Veronica Kluge of Whiting is facing charges for the fatal stabbing of her boyfriend. She has pleaded not guilty. Court records indicate that Kluge entered the plea on Monday and chose to waive her right to a speedy trial. The Monona County Sheriff's Office reported that Justin Luth was discovered dead shortly after midnight on March 16 at a residence on County Highway K-42 in Whiting. According to a criminal affidavit, Kluge allegedly admitted to deputies that she was responsible for Luth’s death. She claimed the incident occurred after Luth attacked her, but investigators stated that evidence at the scene did not align with her account.
Oakland man’s trial scheduled for today now set for June 10th -
The trial for 85 year old Gene Fritz of Oakland has been continued until June 10th. Fritz has been charged in connection with a fatal UTV crash on December 26th, 2024. He is facing a charge of Homicide by Vehicle – Reckless Driving following an incident in which 83 year old Sandra Madron of Oakland died. The crash occurred at 570 North Highway Street in Oakland. When deputies arrived on scene, they found a UTV on the sidewalk and Madron lying on her side. She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs where she died. Fritz had told deputies that he was heading home at the time of the crash and often drove his UTV on the sidewalk because he couldn’t see very well and he drove slow. He stated that he didn’t see Sandra Madron until he hit her and she must have been wearing dark clothing. Fritz does not have a valid driver’s license and the UTV he was operating was not registered for roadway use. He entered a plea of not guilty in March.
Holstein man sentenced to 10 years in prison -
(5-14-25) - (Carroll Broadcasting) - 38 year old Zachary Michael Regennitter of Holstein has plead guilty and will serve no more than 10 years in prison for a subsequent offense for failure to comply with registry requirements as a registered sex offender. According to Sac County District Court records, Regennitter failed to inform the Sac County Sheriff’s Office of his change in his primary residence from Holstein in Ida County to Schaller in Sac County. He also failed to provide employment change from Smithfield in Denison to Lopez Foods in Cherokee, and was reported to have a Snapchat account that was linked to his current registered phone number. Regennitter has a previous conviction of sex offender registry violation in Buena Vista County, where he was sentenced to five years’ probation. Regennitter has had his probation revoked, and the original sentence of five years to run consecutively with the five-year prison sentences from Sac and Cherokee Counties running concurrently. Mittimus was served immediately and Regennitter was committed to the Iowa Department of Corrections last Friday.
Thousands of fish killed in Lizard Creek in Fort Dodge -
(5-14-25) - (Radio Iowa) – The Iowa DNR has released fish kill numbers from a spill last month in the south Branch of Lizard Creek in Fort Dodge. The DNR says 71,933 fish were killed after a fertilizer byproduct leaked from the CJ Bio America plant and into the creek on April 14th. A statement from DNR fisheries biologist Ben Wallace says cooler water and higher flow reduced the number of fish impacted, and larger fish species may have still been in the Des Moines River and not the creek. The DNR says samples no longer show any byproduct in the water, and they will complete their investigation before determining any enforcement action against the company.
Glenwood Resource Center handed over to redevelopment company -
(5-14-25) -The Glenwood Resource Center is moving toward its next step after a redevelopment group took over the property. Over 200 acres of the property were transferred to the Glenwood Redevelopment Corporation on April 11, with the remaining 900 acres owned by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources as a preserve. The state-run facility was closed in 2023, and the corporation continues to work with the state to decommission the buildings. The goal for the property right now is to get permanent utilities in buildings that are still in use, such as the Glen Haven Village and the 103 building that the Glenwood School District uses. Currently, the corporation is responsible for paying utilities on all buildings, which costs nearly $60,000 a month. The corporation is working with Glenwood Municipal Utilities and MidAmerican Energy to finish the installation of permanent utilities before the center's power plant is decommissioned. The group has hired also an architect to pursue a master plan for development. The agreement with the state about 85% of the buildings on the campus will be torn down. However, if the state had stayed involved in the future of the campus, all the buildings would have been torn down. The Iowa Department of Transportation will be working on constructing roads off of U.S. Highway 34 as well as repairing a couple of surrounding roads after initial studies revealed one of the best uses of land was residential.
Charles E. Lakin Award goes out to AHSTW teacher -
(5-12-25) – Clint Sargent, the High School Business teacher at AHSTW school was presented with the Charles E. Lakin Foundation Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award this morning. Sargent received $10,000 for himself and the AHSTW School District received $2,500. Mr. Sargent has made a significant impact through his dedication to student success, both inside and outside the classroom. His leadership in Work-Based Learning Experiences and the development of Viking Brew, our school-based enterprise, has provided students with valuable real-world skills and entrepreneurial insight. He joins an elite group of AHSTW educators - now four in total - who have received the award since its inception in 2008. Each year the Charles E. Lakin Foundation recognizes four exceptional public school teachers from non-urban districts within a 40 mile radius of Emerson, the hometown of the late philanthropist Chares E. Lakin. This year the foundation received 123 nominations from across southwest Iowa. Sargent's nomination praised his dedication to student engagement and innovation in education. And beyond the classroom, Sargent plays a vital role in fostering a strong school community.
Carroll Man Charged With Felony Assault On Officer and Stealing Vehicle -
(5-13-25) – (Carroll Broadcasting) – 32 year old Asher Dodd Herrin of Carroll faces multiple charges for allegedly stealing a car and assaulting a police officer over the weekend. According to Carroll Broadcasting, 32-year-old Asher Dodd Herrin was arrested on Saturday in connection to two separate incidents. Court records show Herrin was charged with operating a motor vehicle without owner’s consent, an aggravated misdemeanor, for driving off with a car parked in the Merchant’s Park lot on Thursday, May 8. Herrin was taken into custody on Saturday after police say he took a hammer without paying from the Carroll Ace Hardware. Authorities attempted to arrest Herrin a few hours later in the 100 block of E 6th Street on the outstanding charges, but he resisted, leading to one of the officers suffering a concussion from hitting his head on a block wall. As a result, Herrin was also booked for assault on persons in certain occupations with intent to cause serious injury, a class D felony, and fifth-degree theft, a simple misdemeanor. As of Monday morning, Herrin remained in custody at the Carroll County jail pending future court appearances.
photo courtesy of Carroll Broadcasting
Harrison County News -
(5-13-25) – On May 6th, the Harrison County Sheriff’s deputy initiated a traffic stop for a speeding violation on Interstate 29, near the 73 mile marker. The driver of the vehicle was found to not have a valid driver’ license and drug paraphernalia was also observed within the vehicle during the incident. A search of the vehicle recovered drug paraphernalia, controlled substance and an offensive weapon. Based on the findings, William Weis of Council Bluffs was arrested and transported to jail for Driving While Barred, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Unauthorized Possession of Offensive Weapon violations.
Also on May 6th, 2 Harrison County deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle parked within a field entrance off of 210th Street, near Tama Trail. The vehicle VIN came back to a subject out of the state of Arkansas. Law enforcement in Arkansas contacted the vehicle owner who reported to have sold the vehicle about 2 months ago. The area near the vehicle was checked and no one was located at the time.
Sioux City man facing over 40 felony counts out of Crawford County -
(5-13-25) – 51 year old Chance Cinjin Michaels of Sioux City is facing 41 felony charges on alleged forgery, kidnapping and assault. He remains in custody after multiple attempts to dismiss charges was denied by prosecution. Crawford County District Court says Michaels was taken into custody in 2023 by law enforcement after being reported to allegedly stalking a female by placing a GPS tracker on her car, showing up to her place of employment and using multiple phone numbers and emails to remain in contact with her. On April 2, 2023, Michaels allegedly confined the victim in her apartment, handcuffed her and tased her 6 to 7 times. He was also witnessed to be armed with a knife. When being detained, a search of Michaels vehicle was conducted where he was found in possession of multiple credit cards, social security cards and out of state drivers licenses of other individuals but Michael’s picture on the document. Michaels is facing charges of second degree kidnapping armed with a dangerous weapon, a class B felony, second-degree burglary, a class C felony, going armed with intent, assault causing serious injury, 37 counts of forgery, all class D felonies, possession of burglary tools, an aggravated misdemeanor and possession of controlled substance, a serious misdemeanor. With motions to dismiss the charges denied multiple times, Michaels is scheduled for jury trial on June 17th. All charges would carry a maximum sentence of 258 years in prison if convicted.
University of Iowa fraternity suspended for 2024 hazing incident -
(5-13-25) - (KCRG) – A University of Iowa fraternity has been suspended until at least July 1, 2029, for a hazing incident that happened in November 2024. The incident was discovered when police and firefighters responded to a fire alarm at the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity at 703 North Dubuque Street. While there was no fire found, police went to the basement and discovered 56 pledges in two separate rooms. Some of them were blindfolded, some of them were shirtless, but all of them were covered in what police say was ketchup, mustard and alcohol. The court filings included several still images from police body camera footage. Joseph Gaya, of Riverdale, was arrested and charged with Interference With Official Acts for allegedly attempting to block officers’ view of what was going on in the two rooms. According to the filing, Gaya wanted evidence gathered inside the house by law enforcement to be suppressed. He specifically wanted to have observations and statements he made suppressed. A judge has denied that request.
Water Boil Advisory -
(5-10-25) - UPDATE: This past weekend Regional Water in Avoca issued a boil advisory, asking their customers to boil water before drinking or cooking with it, or to use an alternative source, due to a loss of pressure in the system's storage systems. High demand on Saturday caused a loss of pressure in the distribution center. General Manager Tom Kallman says that the wells have been impacted by drought and are struggling to keep up with demand. He also said that the pressure drop affected over half of the system and raised concerns about possible contamination. That's when they issued the boil advisory. Regional water is currently working as hard as they can to get pressure restored. A temporary booster station is being considered to help resolve the issue, but they are currently awaiting guidance from FEMA and engineering teams before moving forward. The booster station would bring enough water into the system to repressurize it and lift the boil advisory. They are working with the DNR and other officials to get pressure back to its water system as quickly as possible.
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Regional Water is recommending boiling the water before using it for drinking and to use an alternative source if possible for its Avoca Treatment Plant customers. {All customers except those in and around Underwood, McClelland, & Weston}. Regional Water had a problem with the distribution system due to excessive demand and the system lost pressure on May 10, 2025. Due to the potential for bacterial contamination, it is recommended that the water be boiled before being used for drinking or cooking or that an alternative source be used. The pressure loss is affecting over half of their system, prompting the system-wide boil advisory. IT IS RECOMMENDED NOT TO DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water. The water may be used for bathing and other similar purposes. If the water is colored, use an alternative source such as bottled water. For more information, please contact the Regional Water Office at 712-343-2413. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1(800) 426-4791. When water service is restored, there may be air in your water piping and the water may be discolored. It is recommended to run the first water from a faucet that does not have an aerator screen, such as a bathtub or hose bib. Open the faucet slowly to allow the air to escape. Once the water is flowing, allow the faucet to run until it is clear. The water may be cloudy at first due to air in the water or particles that dislodged as the pipes filled with water. This should be clear fairly quickly. If water is cloudy or colored throughout the house and it does not clear after allowing the water to run for several minutes, use an alternative source such as bottled water and contact Regional Water at the number listed above. The system is being repressurized, and bacteria samples will be collected. This advisory is a precaution until bacterial sample results are available. You will be notified when the results are available and the advisory is lifted. The system is working with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to resolve the situation.
Bottled water advisory to remain in place for City of Kimballton -
(5-12-25) - Officials with the City of Kimballton, Friday afternoon, said that the City notified the Iowa DNR Field Office in Atlantic, that during the effort to refill the water tower from last Tuesday’s incident, sodium permanganate was overfed, resulting in pink water throughout the distribution system. Sodium permanganate is used as an oxidizing agent in drinking water and wastewater treatment to help with iron and manganese removal. The pink water will be flushed out of the distribution system in phases once levels in the water tower return to normal. The City issued a public notice for manganese health advisory level exceedance on April 11th. Sample results have been received and are below the health advisory level, but the sodium permanganate overfeed will require a new public notice to be issued for adolescents and adults. The bottled water advisory will remain in place until manganese samples can be collected and results are below the health advisory level.
Please do not give the water to adults and children of any age. Adults, children, and infants who drink water containing manganese above the health advisory level may be associated with adverse health effects.
• Water, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled or other water low in manganese should be used for infants until further notice.
• DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the manganese level. Excessive boiling can make the manganese more concentrated because manganese remains behind when the water evaporates.
Residents in rural areas that have water supplied by the West Central Iowa Rural Water Association (WCIRWA) or Denison Municipal Utilities (DMU) are being asked to conserve water as well levels continue to decrease. A water watch has been in place in the WCIRWA and DMU service areas, which includes Carroll, Crawford, southern Sac and northern Audubon Counties since March, but demand has continued to increase and with the extended dry conditions, water levels continue to trend down. To ensure water is available for all essential residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal fire protection usage, consumers are asked to take steps to conserve water. Initial steps to take are no watering lawns, or gardens between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., do not fill private swimming pools or ponds, do not use for nonessential cleaning, fill dishwasher and washing machine before running, and limit time and water usage when taking a bath or shower. Penalties for anyone in violation of the restriction will be a verbal or written notice of violation for the first incident, any subsequent violation within a 12-month period will result in a $50 surcharge imposed on customer’s water bill. Anyone with additional questions is asked to contact WCURWA Manager, Jason Meredith, at 712-655-2534.
Guthrie County accident report -
(5-12-25) - The Guthrie County Sheriff’s Office reports two people were recently injured in separate accidents. Last Wednesday at around 5-p.m., 77-year-old Gerald Dean Christensen, of Panora, suffered suspected serious/incapacitating injuries, when the motorcycle he was riding failed to negotiate a left-hand curve on a slight slope while traveling in the 2500 block of Wagon Road. The 1997 Honda Valkyrie left the road to the right, and struck a cable barrier before knocking-over a few cable barrier poles. The cycle then went airborne and overturned. Christensen was ejected from the machine. Both came to rest outside of the cable barrier, in the ditch.Christensen suffered significant injuries and was transported by Panora EMS to Methodist Hospital in Des Moines. The Sheriff’s Office says two witnesses to the accident are to be commended for rendering aid to Gerald Christensen. Both are from Stuart. They were identified as Matthew Litwiller, and Tammy Richardson. The motorcycle was totaled in the crash, with damage estimated at $6,500.
The other accident happened at around 4:45-a.m. Saturday, on Highway 44 in Guthrie County. Authorities say 23-year-old Wyatt Clinton Hall, of Panora, was driving a 2003 Lincoln Towncar northbound on Andrews Terrace, when the car went off the road and onto the right shoulder. The vehicle came back onto the roadway before going out of control and crossing into a yard, where it struck a tree. Hall was transported by Panora EMS to the Guthrie County Hospital for treatment of suspected minor/non-incapacitating injuries. The car sustained an estimated $2,000 damage. Charges are currently pending.
Texas man killed in motorcycle accident near Prescott -
(5-12-25) – 25 year old Tevin Takeo Wilson of Amarillo, TX was killed in a motorcycle accident Saturday afternoon in Adams County. Wilson lost control of the bike and struck the barrier face of the Mt. Zion Branch Bridge. He was thrown over the barrier and landed on the rocks below as the motor cycle continued to slide westbound. Wilson died at the scene. His body was transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office.
Clarinda man arrested on drug & other charges -
(5-12-25) – 55 year old Charles Thomas Harmsen of Clarinda was arrested Wednesday afternoon on drug and other charges in Ringgold County. Harmsen was arrested after the sheriff’s office received a request to perform a welfare check on an individual. While attempting to make contact with the person, deputies encountered Harmsen, who then attempted to flee on foot. He was quickly apprehended and booked into the Ringgold County Jail on charges that include: Possession of a Controlled Substance – 3rd or subsequent offense (A Class D Felony); Interference with Official Acts (A Simple Misdemeanor); Possession of Burglar’s Tools (An Aggravated Misdemeanor), and Driving While License is Denied/Suspended/Cancelled or Revoked. Harmsen’s cash-only bond was set at $7,000.
Tractor and Farm Machinery Safety Course Offered -
(4-14-25) - The AgSafety4U certificate course replaces the tractor and farm machinery safety course which has been held for many years. Federal law restricts youth under 16 from using certain farm equipment unless their parents or guardians own the farm. This online certificate course provides an overview of the hazards common to farms and rural agricultural businesses. The course is offered locally through the ISU Extension and Outreach Shelby County office.
This program can be used for the classroom portion of the Hazardous Occupations Order for Agriculture (HOOA) safety certification program for youth 14 and 15 years of age who are seeking employment and must be certified to drive or operate tractors and machinery for hire. Additional hands-on training is required for issuing a US DOL certificate. Visit the registration site ag-safety.extension.org/agsafety4u-certificate-course. There is $10 fee for the course.
This course is designed for youth, new and beginning farmers, and for employers and employees of agricultural operations looking to enhance their knowledge and/or to provide professional development with a heavy emphasis on tractor and machinery. Individuals who take this course and pass the online quizzes will be able to print a certificate of completion.
There are two components to this certification, the online course work and a tractor driving test. A driving test will be given on Saturday, May 17 in Harlan. The online coursework must be completed prior to the tractor driving test. Participants will need to bring their course certificate to the driving test. Contact the Shelby County Extension office to sign up for a testing time or for questions, 712-755-3104.
DNR to present proposed Western Iowa deer hunting regulations at meetings in Denison, Hinton and Sioux Center -
(4-30-25) - The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will be presenting new proposed deer hunting regulations for portions of Western Iowa, that are intended to allow the deer herd to recover from a major sustained decline throughout the region for the past 15 years. Proposed regulations will be presented and discussed at three public meetings: May 19, in Denison, at Yellow Smoke Park Lookout Shelter; May 20, in Hinton, at Dennis L. Sohl Center; and May 21, in Sioux Center, at Sandy Hollow Lodge. The meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. Deer hunting is one of Iowa’s most recreationally and economically important traditions. Our goal is to manage deer numbers at a level that is acceptable to our citizens and that supports a quality hunting experience. The Iowa DNR held eight meetings in Western Iowa last July to address the sustained decline in deer population in that region. Attendees were provided with information on the population decline, impacts of disease, changes in land cover and high doe harvest over the past decade, and were surveyed for their satisfaction of the local deer density, current antlerless harvest restrictions, support for further harvest restrictions and more. The results from the survey guided the new proposed regulations. This is the second phase of the Western Iowa deer initiative where the Iowa DNR will present specific proposed regulations for the region, different from anything done in the past, and gauge the support and tolerances of the hunters.
Connections Area Agency on Aging Senior Farmer’s Market Voucher Distribution -
(5-7-25) - Officials with the Connections Area Agency on Aging report Farmers Market vouchers are available for seniors meeting income requirements. Vouchers can be used at participating area Farmers Markets to buy $50.00 worth of fresh, locally grown fruit, vegetables, herbs and honey. The Vouchers are valid June 1st through October 31st. Connections says they regret that not being able to distribute vouchers at the same level as in previous years. The USDA provided Connections with 1900 sets of vouchers in 2024. This year the Agency received 750 sets of vouchers for its 20-county service area. Applications will automatically be mailed to anyone that received vouchers in 2024. Individuals will be randomly selected to receive Farmers Market vouchers. Only one set of vouchers per household. Applications will automatically be sent to last year’s voucher recipients. Applicants must complete an application and meet eligibility criteria to receive vouchers. ONE set of vouchers per household is allowed. Voucher distribution is limited. Completed applications must be returned no later than May 30th. Farmers Market distribution will be done by mail ONLY.
Attorney General Brenna Bird to Speak at Treynor Optimist Club Meeting -
(5-5-25) – The Treynor Optimist Club is proud to announce that Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird will be the featured speaker at their upcoming meeting on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the Treynor Community Center, located at 11 W Main St, Treynor, Iowa. This event offers the public a unique opportunity to hear directly from Attorney General Bird about key initiatives and updates from her office. Attendees will gain insight into the work being done across the state of Iowa, as well as on federal matters impacting Iowans. Admission: Free | No RSVP needed - all members of the public are encouraged to attend.
Mapleton Named Finalist in $150,000 Cenex Hometown Throwdown—Public Voting Open Through May 31 -
(5-2-25) - Big things could be in store for small-town Mapleton as it’s been named one of just five finalists in the national Cenex Hometown Throwdown, a competition that highlights the most unique and community-driven local celebrations across the country. With $150,000 up for grabs, Mapleton's famous 4th of July Celebration is now in the national spotlight—and your vote could help bring the prize home. Mapleton’s Independence Day bash is anything but ordinary. Spanning three days, the celebration features events you won't find just anywhere, including chicken poop bingo, foam parties, tractor pulls, and classic carnival rides. It’s a quirky, family-friendly festival that captures the heart of rural America—exactly the kind of hometown charm Cenex hopes to recognize and reward. Other finalists include Windmill Days in Baldwin, Wisconsin; Hazen Chalkfest in North Dakota; the Olde Tyme Apple Festival in Versailles, Missouri; and Borderline Chalkfest in Wahpeton, North Dakota. Each community is now vying for the top prize, but only one will take home the $150,000 to put toward enhancing future celebrations. Voting is open now through May 31, 2025, and it’s one vote per person, so every voice counts. The winning town will be announced in June. To vote and learn more, visit CenexHometownThrowdown.com.
Nominate your favorite Breaded Pork Tenderloin now -
(4-17-25) – It’s that time of year. The Iowa Pork Producers Association is asking for your help in finding the 2025 Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin! Nominations for the 23rd annual Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest are officially open from April 17 to June 1, and you can throw your favorite restaurant into the ring. Whether it’s a small-town café or a local go-to spot, now’s your chance to give them the recognition they deserve. Each person can nominate one restaurant, and if your pick takes the crown, you could win $100 just for showing your love! New restaurants pop up around the state all the time, each with their own take on the breaded pork tenderloin. To qualify, a restaurant must serve hand-breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches as a regular menu item and have consistent, year-round hours that are open to the public. Sorry, no food trucks, seasonal spots, or catering-only businesses are eligible. After the nomination period, IPPA will narrow entries down to the top 40 restaurants, including the top five from each of its eight districts. Then, undercover judges will hit the road to taste and score the finalists based on pork quality, flavor, appearance, and overall deliciousness. The top five will be revealed in October during National Pork Month, and the winner will snag $500, a plaque, and some serious bragging rights. The runner-up gets $250 and a plaque too! In 2023 alone, more than 9,000 nominations came in for 774 different restaurants. Recent Winners include:
2024 — Dairy Sweet in Dunlap
2023 — Cliff’s Place in Manning
2022 — Lid’s Bar & Grill in Waukon
2021 — Victoria Station in Harlan, which has since closed
2020 — PrairieMoon On Main in Prairieburg
For farm news and market information, visit www.brownfieldnetwork.com.
Upcoming events -
IWCC, the Shelby County Center is offering a CNA course at the Harlan campus, May 30th through June 13th, 8 to 4:30 pm. It's a 76 hour Certified Nurse Assistant Program. Registration deadline is May 23rd. The cost is $595 for tuition and textbook, $190 state test fee. To register or learn more, call 755-3568.
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 public is invited to the Unveiling Ceremony of the Military Service Dog Memorial, Saturday, May 17th at 10 am at the Little Willow Dog Park at 301-399 Boston Avenue in Missouri Valley. Members of the Julius F. Muller Post of the American Legion Post #337 will be present. The first 40 people to arrive will receive a free tumbler, limit 1 per family.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month,, Senior Life Solutions and Myrtue's Behavioral Health Department will be hosting an Open House, entitled Demystifying Mental Healthcare, Tuesday, May 20th from 11 to 1 at Myrtue's Behavior Health Clinic at 1110 Morningview Drive in Harlan. They will offer demonstrations to de-mystify mental health treatment, with role play examples of common visits such as a therapy intake, a medication evaluation and types of treatment.
There will be a mushroom foray, Saturday, May 24th, from noon to 4 pm at the Elk Horn Recreation area. They will meet at the shelter House. Come and embark on a fungi-filled adventure with the Prairie States Mushroom Club. Join an expert guide for an afternoon to learn about poisonous, edible and unusual wild mushrooms. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time explorer, this event is perfect for all experience levels. Then join the Prairie States Mushroom Club at 7 pm, Saturday, May 24th at the Nishna Bend Recreation Center to explore the wonderful world of biofluorscent fungi!
American Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Monday, May 19th Noon to 6 pm - Exira Event Center
Tuesday, May 20th 11:30 am to 5 pm Elk Horn Lutheran Church
Wednesday, May 22nd 11 am to 5 pm Central Church of Christ in Griswold
Noon to 6 pm Logan-Magnolia High School in Logan
Noon to 6 pm Woodbine High School
Wednesday, May 28th 11 am to 5 pm St. Boniface Parish Center in Westphalia
12:30 to 6 pm St. Patrick's Parish Center in Dunlap
The 32nd annual National Senior Health and Fitness Day 2025 will be held Thursday, May 29th, from 9:30 to 11:30 at the Petersen Family Wellness Center in Harlan. From 9:30 to 11:30 there will be a mini Health Fair with booths, activities, prizes and giveaways and snacks. From 10:30 to 11 am, a program called "Emotional First Aid Kit" will be held with Dave Bauman, RN and Program Director at Senior Life Solutions and Katie Sandquist, Therapist with Myrtue Behavioral Health. Admittance is free for seniors 50 years of age and older.
Applications are now being accepted for the Monogram Foods Loves Kids foundation Grant. Monogram will award $60,000 to charitable organizations that benefit children and their families. Local 501(c)3 organizations within 100 miles of Monogram Foods are invited to apply via their website. Deadline for applications is May 30th at 5 pm. Applicants will be notified of the status of their application via email by Friday, September 15th.
YOU’LL FIND LOTS OF ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY AT LOG CABIN DAY, SUNDAY, JUNE 1ST, FROM 11 AM TO 3 PM AT THE SHELBY COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM IN HARLAN. COME AND TOUR THE MUSEUM AND LOG CABINES, TAKE PART IN THE COLORING CONTEST, SHELBY COUNTY MINI-GOLF, HANDS-ON HISTORY STATIONS, FOOD VENDORS, FAMILY FUN ACTIVITIES AND HOMEMADE ICE CREAM. PLUS ENJOY THE LIVE MUSIC WITH BANJOY DUO AND FRIENDS FROM 1 TO 3.
Join a panel of those affected by the April 26, 2024 tornado and industry experts to discuss the many lessons learned. This
event will provide valuable insights to help businesses, families, and individuals better plan for and respond to the next weather disaster. The event will be held on Wednesday, June 4th from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the CG Therkildsen Center in Harlan.
2025 Denison Citywide Garage Sale set for June 13th and 14th -
(5-6-25) - Bargain hunters and treasure seekers, mark your calendars! The 2025 Denison Citywide Garage Sales are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, June 13th and 14th. For the first time, this popular community event is being coordinated by the Chamber & Development Council in partnership with Visit Denison & Crawford County, Iowa. Whether you're looking to declutter or discover hidden gems, this event offers something for everyone. "One person's trash is another's treasure," organizers say—so why not turn unused items into cash while connecting with neighbors and shoppers from across the area? Residents interested in hosting a garage sale can register their address for just $10 to be included in the official event map and marketing materials. Registration forms are available at the CDC office or can be completed online at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/he8k9t9. The deadline to register is Friday, June 6th. For more information, contact the CDC or Visit the Denison office.
Register now for vacation Bible School June 16th through 20th from 9 to 11 am at the Church on the Hill at 19th and Durant Streets in Harlan. The theme this year is "Superheroes of the Bible" and is for all children completing Kindergarten through 5th grade. To register, call or text 571-0657 or pick up a form from the packet outside the front door of the church.
Marne Gearing Up for 150th Celebration -
(4-8-25) - June 21st marks the 150th birthday celebration for the city of Marne. The theme for the Marne Sesquicentennial celebration is honoring the past and embracing the future. Marne Community Club President Tonia Larsen looks forward to an event that will unite the entire community. The Food Trucks will roll in and serve from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. She says the Heritage Museum opens at 9:00 a.m. at the community center, the parade line-up starts at 10:00 a.m., and the parade starts at 11:00 a.m. The parade is followed by a flag ceremony at the city park with cake. The afternoon activities include the mini-bike races from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This is a pull-start mini-bike race, and all ages are invited to participate on the track at the softball field. The day wraps up with the Marne Fire and Rescue Annual Hog Roast at 5:00 p.m., featuring a Street Dance and Beer Garden. For more information, follow the Marne Community Club Facebook Page or MarneIowa.com. Donations are accepted to help offset the costs of the day’s activities.
(5-14-25) - A few severe thunderstorms appear possible after 9 PM, mainly north of U.S. 20 in northeast Nebraska. Damaging winds will be the main hazard, with isolated occurrences of large hail, and perhaps a brief tornado or two also possible. Locally heavy rain may also occur.
Thursday through Tuesday - Strong westerly winds gusting 40 to 45 mph are likely Thursday, which could lead to some fire weather concerns in portions of northeast Nebraska. Showers and thunderstorms are possible from late Saturday night through Tuesday. Multiple episodes of severe weather appear possible from Sunday night through Tuesday. Localized flooding may also become a concern.
Townhall meeting in Exira tonight -
(5-14-25) - The City of Exira will be hosting a town hall meeting tonight to discuss next steps regarding the low water levels and the regional boil advisory in place for customers with Regional Water Rural Water Association (RWRWA). This past weekend, RWRWA issued a boil order for customers throughout the area, which includes rural residents in southern Audubon County and the cities of Brayton and Exira. This follows an extended Level Yellow Drinking Water Advisory, due to increase demand water usage with below normal levels in RWRWA’s wellfield. The meeting will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Exira Event Center, to discuss a timeline of regional and city water and to answer any questions that attendees may have.
HMU celebrating 30 years in telecommunications -
Come help HMU celebrate 30 years in the telecommunications industry, Thursday, May 15th. Stop in at the office for cookies and popcorn and to check out their new IPTV offering available in July. You’ll now be able to record programs in the cloud without any bulky equipment, have access to programming, sports and activities from other communities within their new partnership and keep the program you currently have. Celebrate 30 years in telecommunications Thursday, May 15th at the HMU offices from 8 to 3:30.
A Mental Health Action Community Walk will be held Thursday. May 15th 5:30 to 7 pm at Pioneer Park in Harlan. The walk includes a resource fair during the evening's events. Everyone will have a resource table placed along the path. There will be a short program featuring a special guest speaker with live music and food trucks. In case of inclement weather, the walk will be held at the Harlan Community Primary School.
40th year for Relay for Life -
(5-1-25) – Relay for Life has had 40 years of impact. Relay for Life of Shelby County will be held Friday, May 30th on the Harlan Courthouse Square. Opening ceremonies will start at 5 pm with the Kids Zone, Concessions and games. At 6 pm, the Survivor and Caregiver Ceremony will begin and there will be a Pie Auction at 6:30 pm. Entertainment will be held from 7 to 9 pm and the Luminaria Ceremony will begin at 9 pm. Now is the time to become an event sponsor, start or join a fundraising team. Join the Relay for Life Event Leadership Team, invite cancer survivors and their caregivers to register, donate a pie for the auction or share a talent and sign up as a day of the event volunteer.
Crop Report -
(5-13-25) - A warm and dry week made for excellent planting conditions, allowing 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending May 11, 2025. Producers made quick progress planting corn and soybeans. Conditions were also favorable for spraying.
Topsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 22 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 5 percent very short, 24 percent short, 67 percent adequate and 4 percent surplus.
Corn planted reached 76 percent 8 days ahead of last year and 3 days ahead of the 5-year average. Corn emerged reached 30 percent, 4 days ahead of last year’s pace and 2 days ahead of normal. Sixty-four percent of the expected soybean crop has been planted, 10 days ahead of last year and 5 days ahead of the 5-year average. Soybeans emerged reached 16 percent. Nearly all of the oat crop has been planted, with 74 percent emerged, 3 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of normal. Reports of oats starting to head were received. Oat condition rated 85 percent good to excellent, up 6 percentage points from last week.
Six percent of the State’s first cutting of alfalfa hay has been completed. The first hay rating of the year showed 84 percent in good to excellent condition. Pasture condition rated 64 percent good to excellent, up 4 percentage points from last week. Livestock were reported to be in good condition with some cows and calves turned out on grass.
Montgomery County News -
(5-14-25) - At around 10:45 this morning, officers with the Red Oak Police Department arrested Michael Hohl on an active Red Oak Police Department warrant for Criminal Mischief in the 5th Degree. The arrest occurred in the 900 block of N 4th Street. Hohl was transported to the Montgomery County Jail where he was being held on a $300 bond.
(5-13-25) - On Monday, May 12th, officers with the Red Oak Police Department arrested 31 year old Joshua Michael Lowe of Red Oak for Assault with a deadly weapon, an aggravated misdemeanor and possession of drug paraphernalia, a simple misdemeanor. Lowe was transported to the Montgomery County Jail and was being held on $2000 bond.
Monona County Woman Pleads Not Guilty to Boyfriend’s Fatal Stabbing –
(5-14-25) – 46 year old Veronica Kluge of Whiting is facing charges for the fatal stabbing of her boyfriend. She has pleaded not guilty. Court records indicate that Kluge entered the plea on Monday and chose to waive her right to a speedy trial. The Monona County Sheriff's Office reported that Justin Luth was discovered dead shortly after midnight on March 16 at a residence on County Highway K-42 in Whiting. According to a criminal affidavit, Kluge allegedly admitted to deputies that she was responsible for Luth’s death. She claimed the incident occurred after Luth attacked her, but investigators stated that evidence at the scene did not align with her account.
Oakland man’s trial scheduled for today now set for June 10th -
The trial for 85 year old Gene Fritz of Oakland has been continued until June 10th. Fritz has been charged in connection with a fatal UTV crash on December 26th, 2024. He is facing a charge of Homicide by Vehicle – Reckless Driving following an incident in which 83 year old Sandra Madron of Oakland died. The crash occurred at 570 North Highway Street in Oakland. When deputies arrived on scene, they found a UTV on the sidewalk and Madron lying on her side. She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs where she died. Fritz had told deputies that he was heading home at the time of the crash and often drove his UTV on the sidewalk because he couldn’t see very well and he drove slow. He stated that he didn’t see Sandra Madron until he hit her and she must have been wearing dark clothing. Fritz does not have a valid driver’s license and the UTV he was operating was not registered for roadway use. He entered a plea of not guilty in March.
Holstein man sentenced to 10 years in prison -
(5-14-25) - (Carroll Broadcasting) - 38 year old Zachary Michael Regennitter of Holstein has plead guilty and will serve no more than 10 years in prison for a subsequent offense for failure to comply with registry requirements as a registered sex offender. According to Sac County District Court records, Regennitter failed to inform the Sac County Sheriff’s Office of his change in his primary residence from Holstein in Ida County to Schaller in Sac County. He also failed to provide employment change from Smithfield in Denison to Lopez Foods in Cherokee, and was reported to have a Snapchat account that was linked to his current registered phone number. Regennitter has a previous conviction of sex offender registry violation in Buena Vista County, where he was sentenced to five years’ probation. Regennitter has had his probation revoked, and the original sentence of five years to run consecutively with the five-year prison sentences from Sac and Cherokee Counties running concurrently. Mittimus was served immediately and Regennitter was committed to the Iowa Department of Corrections last Friday.
Thousands of fish killed in Lizard Creek in Fort Dodge -
(5-14-25) - (Radio Iowa) – The Iowa DNR has released fish kill numbers from a spill last month in the south Branch of Lizard Creek in Fort Dodge. The DNR says 71,933 fish were killed after a fertilizer byproduct leaked from the CJ Bio America plant and into the creek on April 14th. A statement from DNR fisheries biologist Ben Wallace says cooler water and higher flow reduced the number of fish impacted, and larger fish species may have still been in the Des Moines River and not the creek. The DNR says samples no longer show any byproduct in the water, and they will complete their investigation before determining any enforcement action against the company.
Glenwood Resource Center handed over to redevelopment company -
(5-14-25) -The Glenwood Resource Center is moving toward its next step after a redevelopment group took over the property. Over 200 acres of the property were transferred to the Glenwood Redevelopment Corporation on April 11, with the remaining 900 acres owned by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources as a preserve. The state-run facility was closed in 2023, and the corporation continues to work with the state to decommission the buildings. The goal for the property right now is to get permanent utilities in buildings that are still in use, such as the Glen Haven Village and the 103 building that the Glenwood School District uses. Currently, the corporation is responsible for paying utilities on all buildings, which costs nearly $60,000 a month. The corporation is working with Glenwood Municipal Utilities and MidAmerican Energy to finish the installation of permanent utilities before the center's power plant is decommissioned. The group has hired also an architect to pursue a master plan for development. The agreement with the state about 85% of the buildings on the campus will be torn down. However, if the state had stayed involved in the future of the campus, all the buildings would have been torn down. The Iowa Department of Transportation will be working on constructing roads off of U.S. Highway 34 as well as repairing a couple of surrounding roads after initial studies revealed one of the best uses of land was residential.
Charles E. Lakin Award goes out to AHSTW teacher -
(5-12-25) – Clint Sargent, the High School Business teacher at AHSTW school was presented with the Charles E. Lakin Foundation Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award this morning. Sargent received $10,000 for himself and the AHSTW School District received $2,500. Mr. Sargent has made a significant impact through his dedication to student success, both inside and outside the classroom. His leadership in Work-Based Learning Experiences and the development of Viking Brew, our school-based enterprise, has provided students with valuable real-world skills and entrepreneurial insight. He joins an elite group of AHSTW educators - now four in total - who have received the award since its inception in 2008. Each year the Charles E. Lakin Foundation recognizes four exceptional public school teachers from non-urban districts within a 40 mile radius of Emerson, the hometown of the late philanthropist Chares E. Lakin. This year the foundation received 123 nominations from across southwest Iowa. Sargent's nomination praised his dedication to student engagement and innovation in education. And beyond the classroom, Sargent plays a vital role in fostering a strong school community.
Carroll Man Charged With Felony Assault On Officer and Stealing Vehicle -
(5-13-25) – (Carroll Broadcasting) – 32 year old Asher Dodd Herrin of Carroll faces multiple charges for allegedly stealing a car and assaulting a police officer over the weekend. According to Carroll Broadcasting, 32-year-old Asher Dodd Herrin was arrested on Saturday in connection to two separate incidents. Court records show Herrin was charged with operating a motor vehicle without owner’s consent, an aggravated misdemeanor, for driving off with a car parked in the Merchant’s Park lot on Thursday, May 8. Herrin was taken into custody on Saturday after police say he took a hammer without paying from the Carroll Ace Hardware. Authorities attempted to arrest Herrin a few hours later in the 100 block of E 6th Street on the outstanding charges, but he resisted, leading to one of the officers suffering a concussion from hitting his head on a block wall. As a result, Herrin was also booked for assault on persons in certain occupations with intent to cause serious injury, a class D felony, and fifth-degree theft, a simple misdemeanor. As of Monday morning, Herrin remained in custody at the Carroll County jail pending future court appearances.
photo courtesy of Carroll Broadcasting
Harrison County News -
(5-13-25) – On May 6th, the Harrison County Sheriff’s deputy initiated a traffic stop for a speeding violation on Interstate 29, near the 73 mile marker. The driver of the vehicle was found to not have a valid driver’ license and drug paraphernalia was also observed within the vehicle during the incident. A search of the vehicle recovered drug paraphernalia, controlled substance and an offensive weapon. Based on the findings, William Weis of Council Bluffs was arrested and transported to jail for Driving While Barred, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Unauthorized Possession of Offensive Weapon violations.
Also on May 6th, 2 Harrison County deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle parked within a field entrance off of 210th Street, near Tama Trail. The vehicle VIN came back to a subject out of the state of Arkansas. Law enforcement in Arkansas contacted the vehicle owner who reported to have sold the vehicle about 2 months ago. The area near the vehicle was checked and no one was located at the time.
Sioux City man facing over 40 felony counts out of Crawford County -
(5-13-25) – 51 year old Chance Cinjin Michaels of Sioux City is facing 41 felony charges on alleged forgery, kidnapping and assault. He remains in custody after multiple attempts to dismiss charges was denied by prosecution. Crawford County District Court says Michaels was taken into custody in 2023 by law enforcement after being reported to allegedly stalking a female by placing a GPS tracker on her car, showing up to her place of employment and using multiple phone numbers and emails to remain in contact with her. On April 2, 2023, Michaels allegedly confined the victim in her apartment, handcuffed her and tased her 6 to 7 times. He was also witnessed to be armed with a knife. When being detained, a search of Michaels vehicle was conducted where he was found in possession of multiple credit cards, social security cards and out of state drivers licenses of other individuals but Michael’s picture on the document. Michaels is facing charges of second degree kidnapping armed with a dangerous weapon, a class B felony, second-degree burglary, a class C felony, going armed with intent, assault causing serious injury, 37 counts of forgery, all class D felonies, possession of burglary tools, an aggravated misdemeanor and possession of controlled substance, a serious misdemeanor. With motions to dismiss the charges denied multiple times, Michaels is scheduled for jury trial on June 17th. All charges would carry a maximum sentence of 258 years in prison if convicted.
University of Iowa fraternity suspended for 2024 hazing incident -
(5-13-25) - (KCRG) – A University of Iowa fraternity has been suspended until at least July 1, 2029, for a hazing incident that happened in November 2024. The incident was discovered when police and firefighters responded to a fire alarm at the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity at 703 North Dubuque Street. While there was no fire found, police went to the basement and discovered 56 pledges in two separate rooms. Some of them were blindfolded, some of them were shirtless, but all of them were covered in what police say was ketchup, mustard and alcohol. The court filings included several still images from police body camera footage. Joseph Gaya, of Riverdale, was arrested and charged with Interference With Official Acts for allegedly attempting to block officers’ view of what was going on in the two rooms. According to the filing, Gaya wanted evidence gathered inside the house by law enforcement to be suppressed. He specifically wanted to have observations and statements he made suppressed. A judge has denied that request.
Water Boil Advisory -
(5-10-25) - UPDATE: This past weekend Regional Water in Avoca issued a boil advisory, asking their customers to boil water before drinking or cooking with it, or to use an alternative source, due to a loss of pressure in the system's storage systems. High demand on Saturday caused a loss of pressure in the distribution center. General Manager Tom Kallman says that the wells have been impacted by drought and are struggling to keep up with demand. He also said that the pressure drop affected over half of the system and raised concerns about possible contamination. That's when they issued the boil advisory. Regional water is currently working as hard as they can to get pressure restored. A temporary booster station is being considered to help resolve the issue, but they are currently awaiting guidance from FEMA and engineering teams before moving forward. The booster station would bring enough water into the system to repressurize it and lift the boil advisory. They are working with the DNR and other officials to get pressure back to its water system as quickly as possible.
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Regional Water is recommending boiling the water before using it for drinking and to use an alternative source if possible for its Avoca Treatment Plant customers. {All customers except those in and around Underwood, McClelland, & Weston}. Regional Water had a problem with the distribution system due to excessive demand and the system lost pressure on May 10, 2025. Due to the potential for bacterial contamination, it is recommended that the water be boiled before being used for drinking or cooking or that an alternative source be used. The pressure loss is affecting over half of their system, prompting the system-wide boil advisory. IT IS RECOMMENDED NOT TO DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water. The water may be used for bathing and other similar purposes. If the water is colored, use an alternative source such as bottled water. For more information, please contact the Regional Water Office at 712-343-2413. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1(800) 426-4791. When water service is restored, there may be air in your water piping and the water may be discolored. It is recommended to run the first water from a faucet that does not have an aerator screen, such as a bathtub or hose bib. Open the faucet slowly to allow the air to escape. Once the water is flowing, allow the faucet to run until it is clear. The water may be cloudy at first due to air in the water or particles that dislodged as the pipes filled with water. This should be clear fairly quickly. If water is cloudy or colored throughout the house and it does not clear after allowing the water to run for several minutes, use an alternative source such as bottled water and contact Regional Water at the number listed above. The system is being repressurized, and bacteria samples will be collected. This advisory is a precaution until bacterial sample results are available. You will be notified when the results are available and the advisory is lifted. The system is working with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to resolve the situation.
Bottled water advisory to remain in place for City of Kimballton -
(5-12-25) - Officials with the City of Kimballton, Friday afternoon, said that the City notified the Iowa DNR Field Office in Atlantic, that during the effort to refill the water tower from last Tuesday’s incident, sodium permanganate was overfed, resulting in pink water throughout the distribution system. Sodium permanganate is used as an oxidizing agent in drinking water and wastewater treatment to help with iron and manganese removal. The pink water will be flushed out of the distribution system in phases once levels in the water tower return to normal. The City issued a public notice for manganese health advisory level exceedance on April 11th. Sample results have been received and are below the health advisory level, but the sodium permanganate overfeed will require a new public notice to be issued for adolescents and adults. The bottled water advisory will remain in place until manganese samples can be collected and results are below the health advisory level.
Please do not give the water to adults and children of any age. Adults, children, and infants who drink water containing manganese above the health advisory level may be associated with adverse health effects.
• Water, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled or other water low in manganese should be used for infants until further notice.
• DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the manganese level. Excessive boiling can make the manganese more concentrated because manganese remains behind when the water evaporates.
Residents in rural areas that have water supplied by the West Central Iowa Rural Water Association (WCIRWA) or Denison Municipal Utilities (DMU) are being asked to conserve water as well levels continue to decrease. A water watch has been in place in the WCIRWA and DMU service areas, which includes Carroll, Crawford, southern Sac and northern Audubon Counties since March, but demand has continued to increase and with the extended dry conditions, water levels continue to trend down. To ensure water is available for all essential residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal fire protection usage, consumers are asked to take steps to conserve water. Initial steps to take are no watering lawns, or gardens between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., do not fill private swimming pools or ponds, do not use for nonessential cleaning, fill dishwasher and washing machine before running, and limit time and water usage when taking a bath or shower. Penalties for anyone in violation of the restriction will be a verbal or written notice of violation for the first incident, any subsequent violation within a 12-month period will result in a $50 surcharge imposed on customer’s water bill. Anyone with additional questions is asked to contact WCURWA Manager, Jason Meredith, at 712-655-2534.
Guthrie County accident report -
(5-12-25) - The Guthrie County Sheriff’s Office reports two people were recently injured in separate accidents. Last Wednesday at around 5-p.m., 77-year-old Gerald Dean Christensen, of Panora, suffered suspected serious/incapacitating injuries, when the motorcycle he was riding failed to negotiate a left-hand curve on a slight slope while traveling in the 2500 block of Wagon Road. The 1997 Honda Valkyrie left the road to the right, and struck a cable barrier before knocking-over a few cable barrier poles. The cycle then went airborne and overturned. Christensen was ejected from the machine. Both came to rest outside of the cable barrier, in the ditch.Christensen suffered significant injuries and was transported by Panora EMS to Methodist Hospital in Des Moines. The Sheriff’s Office says two witnesses to the accident are to be commended for rendering aid to Gerald Christensen. Both are from Stuart. They were identified as Matthew Litwiller, and Tammy Richardson. The motorcycle was totaled in the crash, with damage estimated at $6,500.
The other accident happened at around 4:45-a.m. Saturday, on Highway 44 in Guthrie County. Authorities say 23-year-old Wyatt Clinton Hall, of Panora, was driving a 2003 Lincoln Towncar northbound on Andrews Terrace, when the car went off the road and onto the right shoulder. The vehicle came back onto the roadway before going out of control and crossing into a yard, where it struck a tree. Hall was transported by Panora EMS to the Guthrie County Hospital for treatment of suspected minor/non-incapacitating injuries. The car sustained an estimated $2,000 damage. Charges are currently pending.
Texas man killed in motorcycle accident near Prescott -
(5-12-25) – 25 year old Tevin Takeo Wilson of Amarillo, TX was killed in a motorcycle accident Saturday afternoon in Adams County. Wilson lost control of the bike and struck the barrier face of the Mt. Zion Branch Bridge. He was thrown over the barrier and landed on the rocks below as the motor cycle continued to slide westbound. Wilson died at the scene. His body was transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office.
Clarinda man arrested on drug & other charges -
(5-12-25) – 55 year old Charles Thomas Harmsen of Clarinda was arrested Wednesday afternoon on drug and other charges in Ringgold County. Harmsen was arrested after the sheriff’s office received a request to perform a welfare check on an individual. While attempting to make contact with the person, deputies encountered Harmsen, who then attempted to flee on foot. He was quickly apprehended and booked into the Ringgold County Jail on charges that include: Possession of a Controlled Substance – 3rd or subsequent offense (A Class D Felony); Interference with Official Acts (A Simple Misdemeanor); Possession of Burglar’s Tools (An Aggravated Misdemeanor), and Driving While License is Denied/Suspended/Cancelled or Revoked. Harmsen’s cash-only bond was set at $7,000.
Tractor and Farm Machinery Safety Course Offered -
(4-14-25) - The AgSafety4U certificate course replaces the tractor and farm machinery safety course which has been held for many years. Federal law restricts youth under 16 from using certain farm equipment unless their parents or guardians own the farm. This online certificate course provides an overview of the hazards common to farms and rural agricultural businesses. The course is offered locally through the ISU Extension and Outreach Shelby County office.
This program can be used for the classroom portion of the Hazardous Occupations Order for Agriculture (HOOA) safety certification program for youth 14 and 15 years of age who are seeking employment and must be certified to drive or operate tractors and machinery for hire. Additional hands-on training is required for issuing a US DOL certificate. Visit the registration site ag-safety.extension.org/agsafety4u-certificate-course. There is $10 fee for the course.
This course is designed for youth, new and beginning farmers, and for employers and employees of agricultural operations looking to enhance their knowledge and/or to provide professional development with a heavy emphasis on tractor and machinery. Individuals who take this course and pass the online quizzes will be able to print a certificate of completion.
There are two components to this certification, the online course work and a tractor driving test. A driving test will be given on Saturday, May 17 in Harlan. The online coursework must be completed prior to the tractor driving test. Participants will need to bring their course certificate to the driving test. Contact the Shelby County Extension office to sign up for a testing time or for questions, 712-755-3104.
DNR to present proposed Western Iowa deer hunting regulations at meetings in Denison, Hinton and Sioux Center -
(4-30-25) - The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will be presenting new proposed deer hunting regulations for portions of Western Iowa, that are intended to allow the deer herd to recover from a major sustained decline throughout the region for the past 15 years. Proposed regulations will be presented and discussed at three public meetings: May 19, in Denison, at Yellow Smoke Park Lookout Shelter; May 20, in Hinton, at Dennis L. Sohl Center; and May 21, in Sioux Center, at Sandy Hollow Lodge. The meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. Deer hunting is one of Iowa’s most recreationally and economically important traditions. Our goal is to manage deer numbers at a level that is acceptable to our citizens and that supports a quality hunting experience. The Iowa DNR held eight meetings in Western Iowa last July to address the sustained decline in deer population in that region. Attendees were provided with information on the population decline, impacts of disease, changes in land cover and high doe harvest over the past decade, and were surveyed for their satisfaction of the local deer density, current antlerless harvest restrictions, support for further harvest restrictions and more. The results from the survey guided the new proposed regulations. This is the second phase of the Western Iowa deer initiative where the Iowa DNR will present specific proposed regulations for the region, different from anything done in the past, and gauge the support and tolerances of the hunters.
Connections Area Agency on Aging Senior Farmer’s Market Voucher Distribution -
(5-7-25) - Officials with the Connections Area Agency on Aging report Farmers Market vouchers are available for seniors meeting income requirements. Vouchers can be used at participating area Farmers Markets to buy $50.00 worth of fresh, locally grown fruit, vegetables, herbs and honey. The Vouchers are valid June 1st through October 31st. Connections says they regret that not being able to distribute vouchers at the same level as in previous years. The USDA provided Connections with 1900 sets of vouchers in 2024. This year the Agency received 750 sets of vouchers for its 20-county service area. Applications will automatically be mailed to anyone that received vouchers in 2024. Individuals will be randomly selected to receive Farmers Market vouchers. Only one set of vouchers per household. Applications will automatically be sent to last year’s voucher recipients. Applicants must complete an application and meet eligibility criteria to receive vouchers. ONE set of vouchers per household is allowed. Voucher distribution is limited. Completed applications must be returned no later than May 30th. Farmers Market distribution will be done by mail ONLY.
Attorney General Brenna Bird to Speak at Treynor Optimist Club Meeting -
(5-5-25) – The Treynor Optimist Club is proud to announce that Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird will be the featured speaker at their upcoming meeting on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the Treynor Community Center, located at 11 W Main St, Treynor, Iowa. This event offers the public a unique opportunity to hear directly from Attorney General Bird about key initiatives and updates from her office. Attendees will gain insight into the work being done across the state of Iowa, as well as on federal matters impacting Iowans. Admission: Free | No RSVP needed - all members of the public are encouraged to attend.
Mapleton Named Finalist in $150,000 Cenex Hometown Throwdown—Public Voting Open Through May 31 -
(5-2-25) - Big things could be in store for small-town Mapleton as it’s been named one of just five finalists in the national Cenex Hometown Throwdown, a competition that highlights the most unique and community-driven local celebrations across the country. With $150,000 up for grabs, Mapleton's famous 4th of July Celebration is now in the national spotlight—and your vote could help bring the prize home. Mapleton’s Independence Day bash is anything but ordinary. Spanning three days, the celebration features events you won't find just anywhere, including chicken poop bingo, foam parties, tractor pulls, and classic carnival rides. It’s a quirky, family-friendly festival that captures the heart of rural America—exactly the kind of hometown charm Cenex hopes to recognize and reward. Other finalists include Windmill Days in Baldwin, Wisconsin; Hazen Chalkfest in North Dakota; the Olde Tyme Apple Festival in Versailles, Missouri; and Borderline Chalkfest in Wahpeton, North Dakota. Each community is now vying for the top prize, but only one will take home the $150,000 to put toward enhancing future celebrations. Voting is open now through May 31, 2025, and it’s one vote per person, so every voice counts. The winning town will be announced in June. To vote and learn more, visit CenexHometownThrowdown.com.
Nominate your favorite Breaded Pork Tenderloin now -
(4-17-25) – It’s that time of year. The Iowa Pork Producers Association is asking for your help in finding the 2025 Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin! Nominations for the 23rd annual Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest are officially open from April 17 to June 1, and you can throw your favorite restaurant into the ring. Whether it’s a small-town café or a local go-to spot, now’s your chance to give them the recognition they deserve. Each person can nominate one restaurant, and if your pick takes the crown, you could win $100 just for showing your love! New restaurants pop up around the state all the time, each with their own take on the breaded pork tenderloin. To qualify, a restaurant must serve hand-breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches as a regular menu item and have consistent, year-round hours that are open to the public. Sorry, no food trucks, seasonal spots, or catering-only businesses are eligible. After the nomination period, IPPA will narrow entries down to the top 40 restaurants, including the top five from each of its eight districts. Then, undercover judges will hit the road to taste and score the finalists based on pork quality, flavor, appearance, and overall deliciousness. The top five will be revealed in October during National Pork Month, and the winner will snag $500, a plaque, and some serious bragging rights. The runner-up gets $250 and a plaque too! In 2023 alone, more than 9,000 nominations came in for 774 different restaurants. Recent Winners include:
2024 — Dairy Sweet in Dunlap
2023 — Cliff’s Place in Manning
2022 — Lid’s Bar & Grill in Waukon
2021 — Victoria Station in Harlan, which has since closed
2020 — PrairieMoon On Main in Prairieburg
For farm news and market information, visit www.brownfieldnetwork.com.
Upcoming events -
IWCC, the Shelby County Center is offering a CNA course at the Harlan campus, May 30th through June 13th, 8 to 4:30 pm. It's a 76 hour Certified Nurse Assistant Program. Registration deadline is May 23rd. The cost is $595 for tuition and textbook, $190 state test fee. To register or learn more, call 755-3568.
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 public is invited to the Unveiling Ceremony of the Military Service Dog Memorial, Saturday, May 17th at 10 am at the Little Willow Dog Park at 301-399 Boston Avenue in Missouri Valley. Members of the Julius F. Muller Post of the American Legion Post #337 will be present. The first 40 people to arrive will receive a free tumbler, limit 1 per family.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month,, Senior Life Solutions and Myrtue's Behavioral Health Department will be hosting an Open House, entitled Demystifying Mental Healthcare, Tuesday, May 20th from 11 to 1 at Myrtue's Behavior Health Clinic at 1110 Morningview Drive in Harlan. They will offer demonstrations to de-mystify mental health treatment, with role play examples of common visits such as a therapy intake, a medication evaluation and types of treatment.
There will be a mushroom foray, Saturday, May 24th, from noon to 4 pm at the Elk Horn Recreation area. They will meet at the shelter House. Come and embark on a fungi-filled adventure with the Prairie States Mushroom Club. Join an expert guide for an afternoon to learn about poisonous, edible and unusual wild mushrooms. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time explorer, this event is perfect for all experience levels. Then join the Prairie States Mushroom Club at 7 pm, Saturday, May 24th at the Nishna Bend Recreation Center to explore the wonderful world of biofluorscent fungi!
American Red Cross Bloodmobiles -
Monday, May 19th Noon to 6 pm - Exira Event Center
Tuesday, May 20th 11:30 am to 5 pm Elk Horn Lutheran Church
Wednesday, May 22nd 11 am to 5 pm Central Church of Christ in Griswold
Noon to 6 pm Logan-Magnolia High School in Logan
Noon to 6 pm Woodbine High School
Wednesday, May 28th 11 am to 5 pm St. Boniface Parish Center in Westphalia
12:30 to 6 pm St. Patrick's Parish Center in Dunlap
The 32nd annual National Senior Health and Fitness Day 2025 will be held Thursday, May 29th, from 9:30 to 11:30 at the Petersen Family Wellness Center in Harlan. From 9:30 to 11:30 there will be a mini Health Fair with booths, activities, prizes and giveaways and snacks. From 10:30 to 11 am, a program called "Emotional First Aid Kit" will be held with Dave Bauman, RN and Program Director at Senior Life Solutions and Katie Sandquist, Therapist with Myrtue Behavioral Health. Admittance is free for seniors 50 years of age and older.
Applications are now being accepted for the Monogram Foods Loves Kids foundation Grant. Monogram will award $60,000 to charitable organizations that benefit children and their families. Local 501(c)3 organizations within 100 miles of Monogram Foods are invited to apply via their website. Deadline for applications is May 30th at 5 pm. Applicants will be notified of the status of their application via email by Friday, September 15th.
YOU’LL FIND LOTS OF ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY AT LOG CABIN DAY, SUNDAY, JUNE 1ST, FROM 11 AM TO 3 PM AT THE SHELBY COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM IN HARLAN. COME AND TOUR THE MUSEUM AND LOG CABINES, TAKE PART IN THE COLORING CONTEST, SHELBY COUNTY MINI-GOLF, HANDS-ON HISTORY STATIONS, FOOD VENDORS, FAMILY FUN ACTIVITIES AND HOMEMADE ICE CREAM. PLUS ENJOY THE LIVE MUSIC WITH BANJOY DUO AND FRIENDS FROM 1 TO 3.
Join a panel of those affected by the April 26, 2024 tornado and industry experts to discuss the many lessons learned. This
event will provide valuable insights to help businesses, families, and individuals better plan for and respond to the next weather disaster. The event will be held on Wednesday, June 4th from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the CG Therkildsen Center in Harlan.
2025 Denison Citywide Garage Sale set for June 13th and 14th -
(5-6-25) - Bargain hunters and treasure seekers, mark your calendars! The 2025 Denison Citywide Garage Sales are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, June 13th and 14th. For the first time, this popular community event is being coordinated by the Chamber & Development Council in partnership with Visit Denison & Crawford County, Iowa. Whether you're looking to declutter or discover hidden gems, this event offers something for everyone. "One person's trash is another's treasure," organizers say—so why not turn unused items into cash while connecting with neighbors and shoppers from across the area? Residents interested in hosting a garage sale can register their address for just $10 to be included in the official event map and marketing materials. Registration forms are available at the CDC office or can be completed online at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/he8k9t9. The deadline to register is Friday, June 6th. For more information, contact the CDC or Visit the Denison office.
Register now for vacation Bible School June 16th through 20th from 9 to 11 am at the Church on the Hill at 19th and Durant Streets in Harlan. The theme this year is "Superheroes of the Bible" and is for all children completing Kindergarten through 5th grade. To register, call or text 571-0657 or pick up a form from the packet outside the front door of the church.
Marne Gearing Up for 150th Celebration -
(4-8-25) - June 21st marks the 150th birthday celebration for the city of Marne. The theme for the Marne Sesquicentennial celebration is honoring the past and embracing the future. Marne Community Club President Tonia Larsen looks forward to an event that will unite the entire community. The Food Trucks will roll in and serve from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. She says the Heritage Museum opens at 9:00 a.m. at the community center, the parade line-up starts at 10:00 a.m., and the parade starts at 11:00 a.m. The parade is followed by a flag ceremony at the city park with cake. The afternoon activities include the mini-bike races from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This is a pull-start mini-bike race, and all ages are invited to participate on the track at the softball field. The day wraps up with the Marne Fire and Rescue Annual Hog Roast at 5:00 p.m., featuring a Street Dance and Beer Garden. For more information, follow the Marne Community Club Facebook Page or MarneIowa.com. Donations are accepted to help offset the costs of the day’s activities.
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