Local Spotlight
Thrive OT bridges healthcare gaps in rural Iowa through holistic pelvic health services. Founder Erica Stevens transformed a community need into a growing practice that spares patients hour-long drives while addressing both physical symptoms and underlying wellness issues.
Local Spotlight
For 25 years, Dr. Jay's Family Eye Care has served Harlan with comprehensive vision services. What started as a hometown optometrist's dream has grown into a multi-generational practice known for personal care, led by Dr. Jay and Dr. Kristi Merchant, with Nic Christensen at its heart.
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.
Local Spotlight
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.
Local Spotlight
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.
Local Spotlight
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.
Local Spotlight
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.
Local Spotlight
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.
Local Spotlight
Inspired by a moment on his parents' roof, Ron French co-founded Shelby County Community Outreach to help elderly and low-income residents with home repairs. Twenty years later, SCCO continues serving through Hero's Attic furniture store, home repair services, and community resource connections.
Local Spotlight
In Vibe Salon, Emily Fineran transforms hair with artistic precision. From natural cuts to vivid colors, her consultative approach and honest expertise have created a thriving business with a months-long waitlist—proof that in small-town Harlan, good hair is worth the wait.
Local Spotlight
Ann Conrad's Professional Home Care LLC helps Harlan's seniors remain in their homes through personalized care services. Drawing from her experience as a CNA and inspired by caring for her own father, Conrad provides companionship, transportation, and assistance with daily tasks.
Local Spotlight
Harlan native Dr. Mary Hoch returned home to establish Cornerstone Dental, offering comprehensive care with small-town warmth. Her team provides extensive services locally, creating a comfortable experience where patients feel like family rather than just another appointment.
Local Spotlight
Studio 712 brings fresh style to downtown Harlan with full-service salon treatments in a family-friendly setting. Founded by Trish Kiesel with three fellow stylists, this team combines experience with small-town charm at their Market Street location.
Local Spotlight
After tragedy, Shari Nichols found purpose at Christian's Rise Donuts. Beyond delicious treats, this Harlan bakery employs people with special needs. Their mission is simple yet profound: "helping people rise" – in more ways than one.
Local Spotlight
Tucked in downtown Harlan, Bigfoot Sales transforms mystery pallets into retail treasure. Les and Cathy Sidman's shop offers discounted returns, handcrafted items, and unexpected finds that keep customers returning to see what's new in this ever-changing local gem.
Local Spotlight
New downtown thrift store Bits 'N Bobs offers quality second-hand clothing at affordable prices. Mother-daughter owners Laurel and Eden Klenda emphasize community support while creating a welcoming, boutique-like shopping experience for Harlan families.