HARLAN – Harlan Community School District patrons should have answers next week to the many questions they have regarding the re-opening of school in August.    HCS Superintendent of Schools Lynn Johnson said hopes are that parents/guardians should have in their hands next week the plan of action on everything from if masks, social distancing and temperature checks will be required, to how lunch, education delivery and busing will be handl

    STATE – Guidance from the Iowa Department of Education released in late June allows schools to re-open with normal activities and without requirements for students and teachers to observe social distancing, have their temperatures checked when entering a building, or be required to wear a mask.    Those decisions are being left to individual school districts, state officials said.    Guidelines were posted on the department’s website to he

    COUNTY -- This summer’s restrictions might find families struggling to find activities that please everyone.  Shelby County Wellness Alliance listed numerous all-age opportunities for your family to experience by exploring what Shelby County has to offer.   •    Bowling   •    Golfing  and driving ranges•    Harlan Public Library: Grab and Go Book Bags.  Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays this summer. Free snack 2-3 p.m.

    HARLAN -- Miranda Lingle was crowned the 2020 Shelby County Fair Queen during coronation ceremonies held at the Shelby County Fairgrounds Monday evening, July 13.  First runner-up was Justine Buman (right) and second runner-up was Lucy Borkowski (left).

    COUNTY – The Shelby County Fair kicked off this week with safety and health of those involved top of mind as 4-H’ers and FFA begin to show their animals and projects at the fairgrounds in Harlan.    The Shelby County Fair Board made the decision in late June to proceed with a limited fair, one that will allow the kids to participate but limit the number of spectators and fair-goers as a way to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.    “Th

    HARLAN -- Rickey Martin, 64, Harlan, died Tuesday, July 14 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan.  No services are planned at this time.

    WOODBINE -- Joyce Christensen, 90, formerly of Harlan, died Tuesday, July 14 at Rose Vista Home in Woodbine.    Services will be held at a later date.    She is survived by her children Kevin (Sue) Christensen of Omaha, NE, Tim (Joan) Christensen of Bennington, NE and Deb Larsen of Harlan.
 

    EARLING -- Richard Mathias Wilwerding, 77, Earling, died July 9 at his home.    Graveside services will be held Saturday, July 18 at 9 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Earling.    Wilwerding is survived by brothers Jerry Wilwerding and Eugene (Janice) Wilwerding, both of Harlan; sister Jackie Wilwerding of Earling; many nieces and nephews.    Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan is in charge of arrangements.
 

    SHELBY -- Steven J. Bladt, 70, Shelby, died July 14 at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan.    Graveside services will be held Wednesday, July 22 at 2 p.m. at the Shelby Cemetery in Shelby.  Family will greet friends Tuesday, July 21 from 4-7 p.m.