News
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.
Sports
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
Obituaries
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.
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.
👋 Hey Harlan! Stay in the Know About Harlan Area Local News & Events by Subscribing to our Free Email Newsletter!
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.
Peggy Hansen, 88, a longtime Shelby County fixture with roots in Elk Horn, Kimballton and Jacksonville, died Feb. 17 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan. Known for decades of local service and community leadership — visitation Mar. 1; funeral Mar. 2.
64-year-old Scott Gau was found trapped under his snowmobile in a creek about 15 minutes west of Harlan on Highway 191; pulled from icy water and later pronounced dead. Shelby County deputies ask anyone with information to come forward.
Harlan students took their tech help desk to the State Capitol, new snow-parking rules are now official, and a $10K donation match boosts local schools toward a big goal. Plus Pops Concert week, varsity hoops, and the Jazz Festival. Here’s what locals need to know right now.
Shelby County State Bank matched $10,000 after Giving Tuesday for the Harlan Community School District Education Foundation, nudging donations past $100K toward a $250K endowment—see how Harlan residents can give.
Four Harlan students brought their student‑run help desk to the State Capitol, demonstrating Chromebook repairs and advanced IT skills funded by an Lt. Governor’s STEM scholarship — advocating for tech career training in Shelby County.
Harlan residents: council unanimously approved stricter snow-emergency parking—no vehicles on streets or alleys until plows finish and snowfall stops, with parking banned during active clearing. City-owned lots remain available; read full details.
Carroll surged in the second half, hitting seven 3s to beat Harlan 66-40 at Harlan — Jared Mohr had a 16-12 double-double and Harlan’s top scorer was limited to six as Carroll rolls into district play 17-5.