STATE -- The Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced that the State of Iowa has received nearly $1 million in funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to offer free crisis counseling to any Iowan who has been affected, in any way, by the COVID-19 public health emergency.    The program, called COVID Recovery Iowa, is available immediately.

    COUNTY – Two Shelby County entities have been awarded funding from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs as emergency relief grants made possible by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic  Security (CARES) Act.    The Shelby County Historical Museum, Harlan, received $4,500 under the second and third round of funding from the state, while the Museum of Danish America, Elk Horn, was awarded $14,000 through the State Humanities P

    HARLAN -- The 8-Ball Aviation Club and City of Harlan have announced that the annual Flight Breakfast held on Father’s Day Weekend every year, and scheduled for this weekend, has been canceled.    Officials said they made the tough decision to cancel due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  All activities, the breakfast and airplane rides at the Harlan Municipal Airport, Rueschenberg Field, are canceled.    Hopes are for a re-scheduled event later t

EARLING – It’s a funny account of how Bowser the pooch helped lead to an informative hour-long documentary about the Earling Catholic church entitled St.

    COUNTY -- Statement from Shelby County Fair Board -- “As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, the Shelby County Fair Board is making changes to the 2020 fair. The fair will be limited to 4-H and FFA shows and activities. Unfortunately, there will be no open class exhibits, commercial exhibits, or entertainment on the grounds.    “There will be limited concessions.

    HARLAN -- The Norman D. Stamp Aquatic Center will re-open Wednesday, June 17 with normal business hours, pending approval by the Harlan City Council tonight.    Following Iowa Gov. Kim Reynoldss announcement on June 10, the Harlan pool is projected to open. Final approval on opening the pool will be reviewed by Harlan City Council tonight, Tuesday, June 16.

    HARLAN -- Harlan Community High School will host a live graduation ceremony on Sunday, June 28 at 2 p.m. at Merrill Field in Harlan.    The ceremony will include an introduction, senior speeches, National Honor Society recognition, Cum Laude recognition, and presentation of the graduating class.

    HARLAN -- Harlan Community High School’s 2020 Prom officially has been canceled.    In a statement released Thursday, June 11, the district said, “Due to the COVID-19 guidelines regarding social distancing requirements, Harlan Community School is unable to host a prom that allows for the dancing and socialization that is a prominent part of this event.

    HARLAN – The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says swimming is now okay at Prairie Rose Lake after a week of it being not advisable due to high levels of E.

    HARLAN -- Harlan’s citywide garage sale will be held on Saturday, July 11.    Sponsored by the Harlan Newspapers, the deadline for advertising and to be on published maps is Tuesday, June 30 at noon.    The citywide garage sale was moved to July 11 from its previous date in June.

    HARLAN -- Crews finished installing fitness equipment in Pioneer Park this week.  The project is a partnership between the City of Harlan and the Shelby County Wellness Alliance, and includes four pads and seven pieces of Norwell Outdoor Fitness Equipment.    Pictured above is the Air Walker and Stretch Station and the station also includes descriptive signage showing how to use the equipment and local benefactors involved in purchasing th

    HARLAN -- Utility Services Group (USG), utility maintenance company serving water providers across the United States, is performing work this month on the 12th Street water tower as part of an all-inclusive service agreement with Harlan Municipal Utilities. The tank is being power washed, primed and painted.    According to USG, “The exterior finish color is called Tank White. A color that has a very high gloss with a hint of blue.

    COUNTY -- The Shelby County Community Foundation has announced that grants totaling $60,575 have been awarded to Shelby County nonprofit organizations and community projects as part of its spring grant cycle.    The following organizations were awarded grants by the Shelby County Community Foundation Advisory Board:    •  Concerned, Inc., $1,000, Hoyer Lift    •  Defiance Fire and Rescue Department, $5,000, kitchen and meeting room heating

    STATE -- Iowa Gov.

    REGIONAL – The summer sports season officially gets under way next week, and with that in mind, local healthcare officials are providing guidance for athletes, coaches and spectators at upcoming contests.    Myrtue Medical Center and Shelby County Public Health have released information for those who participate in athletic contests this summer, as well as for those who attend games and events.    School-sponsored activities are encouraged