Obituaries
Join the Harlan community on May 21 to celebrate the life of Joyce Nielsen, 94. A heartfelt memorial service at Immanuel Lutheran Church precedes her burial at Harlan Cemetery, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory.
News
Shelby County has introduced a burn ban starting today, May 14, 2025, due to severe water supply issues. This crucial measure aims to protect resources amid a boil advisory affecting the Regional Water system. Stay informed to ensure community safety!
Local Spotlight
The Harlan Community Summer Swim Team builds confidence and lifelong skills while creating unique mentoring relationships. "It's a great family sport where kids of all ages can participate together," says President Matt Schmitz, emphasizing its inclusive nature.
The Harlan Community Summer Swim Team builds confidence and lifelong skills while creating unique mentoring relationships. "It's a great family sport where kids of all ages can participate together," says President Matt Schmitz, emphasizing its inclusive nature.
Local business VacDaddy offers affordable car cleaning for Harlan families. With packages from $30-$75 and pickup service, owner Al Stark focuses on practical needs: "We clean for how you live, not for a car show." Serving all of Shelby County from his Victoria Street home base.
From kitchen remedy to local sensation, Leslie Assman's Farm & Three transforms beef tallow into luxurious skin care that's changing lives across rural Iowa. Her accessible, natural products prove that sometimes the best solutions come from tradition, not chemistry.
Beyond Tex-Mex, Border Fare Restaurant's hidden gem is owner Jeff Swensen's handcrafted super premium ice cream, now nearly a third of their business—a delicious secret many Harlan residents have yet to discover.
Tiarks School of Dance has inspired Harlan's youth since 1976. From their downtown studio, Janice Tiarks and daughter Jill Daeges teach tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop and tumbling to children 2-18, creating a space where everyone can shine and build confidence.
Annie's Quilting Bee, opened in 2022 by Ann Wooster, brings premium quilting fabrics and community spirit to downtown Harlan. From just 200 fabric bolts to now over 1,200, the shop offers classes, sew days, and quality materials at accessible prices.
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With a strong state tournament performance last year, the Harlan Cyclones are ready to take on the new season. Coach Stein is counting on fresh talent like freshman Jake Schneider and returning ace Weston Reisz to lead the charge. Don't miss the action!
Urgent boil advisory for Regional Water customers! Celebrate Cyclones' 4-1 victory and Bret Chickering's $100K lottery win. Join Thursday's Mental Health Walk and Roar Into Harlan Car Night, then cap the week with Sunday's graduation ceremony and BuckSnort Car Show!
In a remarkable turnaround, Harlan's Bret Chickering transformed his bad luck into a $100,000 lottery win. After overcoming tough battles with health, this victory brings hope and joy not just to him, but to the entire Harlan community. Discover his inspiring journey!
A boil advisory is in effect for Regional Water customers near the Avoca Treatment Plant, impacting Shelby County. Due to a distribution system issue amid drought conditions, residents must boil water for safety. Stay updated on this urgent situation!
The Harlan Cyclones celebrated a much-needed 4-1 home victory against the Underwood Eagles, snapping a three-game losing streak. With this win, Harlan improves to 6-8-1, while Underwood faces a rapid chance for redemption later today. Don't miss the full story!
The Harlan community mourns the loss of Connie Kay Christensen, 78, whose warmth and creativity touched many lives. A retired Food Pride employee and devoted grandmother, her legacy lives on through cherished family memories. Join us in honoring her life.
Harlan mourns the loss of Lynn D. Barry, a cherished cattleman and community pillar known for his generosity and deep love for family. From his early days in farming to timeless moments at home, Lynn's legacy continues through his loved ones.
Harlan native Chick Stessman, who touched countless lives through education and basketball, passed away peacefully at 85. From coaching at Liberty High School to founding a beloved basketball tournament, his legacy endures. Read more about his remarkable journey.
Harlan has lost a cherished figure with the passing of Yvonne Johnson at 96. Deeply rooted in the community, her warm spirit and dedication to family left a lasting impact. Join us in remembering her legacy and the love she shared throughout her life.
Molly Swensen, a standout from Harlan High School, is heading to Morningside College after an impressive senior year on the court, making 56 three-pointers and earning All-Defense honors. Discover how her Harlan roots shaped her journey in this exciting new chapter!
From Lindsey Sonderman's race for Drake Relays glory to the Mother's Day Speedway special, Harlan's buzzing with activity! Judge Welborn needs CASA volunteers, while the Fay Porter Jazz Quartet brings international sounds to Milk & Honey. Don't miss this week's packed community calendar!
Local business VacDaddy offers affordable car cleaning for Harlan families. With packages from $30-$75 and pickup service, owner Al Stark focuses on practical needs: "We clean for how you live, not for a car show." Serving all of Shelby County from his Victoria Street home base.
