Obituaries
Michael Kaufman, 88, of Omaha, will be remembered Feb. 26 at 2:30 p.m. at Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan (visitation 1:30). Burial will follow at Harlan Cemetery. See WesternIowaToday.com for the full obituary and updates.
Sports
Harlan grad Kayla Anderson scored NW Iowa CC’s lone victory with a game-winning goal while fighting a nagging groin injury. She’s rehabbing, getting stronger and optimistic for year two as the Raiders rebuild.
About 10 Harlan Community High students walked out at 2:15 p.m., joined by six adults, and marched down Durant Street to the Shelby County Courthouse to protest ICE. District warned absences would be recorded; organizers cited family concerns.
Marine veteran James Sheehan and wife Laura Lee turned a $40k house flip into Harlan's premier contracting firm, tackling million-dollar projects while giving back to their community.
For 23 years, Cyclone Lanes has been more than Harlan's bowling center—it's famous for "Bowling Alley pizza" that draws visitors from miles away. The Portwoods' family business combines recreation and homemade food with small-town charm.
Jahde Osborn's Courtside Marketing & CiShirts evolved from digital startup to full-service branding partner, helping southwest Iowa businesses with everything from custom apparel to complete brand makeovers through genuine partnerships.
Sara Probst transformed Hurricane Irma's devastation into opportunity, bringing 22 years of hair expertise from Florida to Harlan. Her salon specializes in non-ammonia color services, expert fades, and personalized care in a cozy storefront where every client receives one-on-one attention.
Claire Petersen captures life's authentic moments through her natural photography style. Specializing in senior portraits and family sessions with young children, she transforms everyday chaos into treasured memories that reveal genuine connections.
Kayla Petersen brings a personal touch to real estate in Shelby County, combining banking expertise with family business values. As co-owner of Turnkey Services Realty, she educates clients through every step of their biggest investment.
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Harlan officials approved a revised snow‑emergency rule banning street and alley parking until plowing is finished — city lots allowed, with clearer signs, maps and alerts to help residents who’ve been confused about where to park.
Harlan residents: district revenue edged up 2% while expenses jumped 5.4% — driven by costly infrastructure projects. Auditor flagged two findings on taxpayer funds, one repeated. See what this means for local schools.
Harlan's Staff Sgt. Jack Petersen is home after a seven‑month stint with Operation Inherent Resolve — five months in Iraq, two in Kuwait. He was among about 250 Iowa Guard soldiers welcomed back; Gov. Kim Reynolds joined the ceremony.
Harlan Council greenlights a new West Nishnabotna river access for boating and fishing. Lady Tigers head to undefeated Bishop Heelan in a regional semifinal showdown. State wrestling photos from Des Moines. Plus corn bids, community events, and remembering two beloved Shelby County residents.
Harlan officials approved a grant-funded river access off Hwy 44, signing a construction contract with Christensen Bros. to open West Nishnabotna boat and fishing access for Harlan and Shelby County residents.
View action shots from Thursday’s Class 2A session in Des Moines: Harlan’s Chayton Snethen in a 157‑lb second‑round match and photos of Glenwood’s seven state qualifiers—must‑see for Harlan area fans. simple abstract illustration, Wrestler in singlet mid-takedown repres
Harlan remembers Sheila Mikkelsen, 73 — longtime caregiver at Elm Crest and Salem Lutheran Homes — who died Feb. 13. Survived by daughter Jeannie, grandchildren and her dog Trixie. Funeral Mass Feb. 24 at St. Michael’s. Read full obituary online.
Harlan growers: Nelson Farm Supply posted a Feb. corn bid of $4.04. Nearby elevators ranged about $3.96–$4.25; February soybeans roughly $10.62–$10.88. Full elevator bids and links on Western Iowa Today.
Harlan’s girls (9–13) travel to undefeated Bishop Heelan (21–0) for a Class 4A regional semifinal — a big postseason test for the Lady Tigers. Plus boys state wrestling finals and placement matches. Read full schedules and coverage.
Harlan heads to Sioux City Monday to try to snap a 2-8 road skid against higher-ranked Bishop Heelan (11-9). Local fans can sign up as Harlan’s live scorer—click for box score, stats and real-time updates.
Harlan tied for 66th in Class 2A with 4 team points at the IHSAA state wrestling finals. Don Bosco won 1A; nearby Atlantic (17th), Carroll (23rd) and Shenandoah (34th) also placed. See full results and brackets.
Harlan fell 86-46 to top-ranked Bishop Heelan—their heaviest loss since Jan. 20. The Cyclones are 9-14 (4 losses in 5); Bishop Heelan is 21-1 with a 13-game streak. Shelby County fans can see the full box score on MaxPreps.