SHELBY COUNTY — Iowans have until May 7 to obtain their REAL ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. At the end of 2024, 73.5% of Iowa driver’s licenses were REAL ID compliant. Shelby County Treasurer Carolyn Blum said 85.51% of Shelby Countians have switched to REAL ID. To check if a driver’s license is REAL ID, check the upper-right corner. If there is a gold star, it is a REAL ID.

SHELBY COUNTY — In response to the nation’s mental health crisis, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Shelby County will bring Mental Health First Aid training to Harlan Thursday, February 13, 2025.

 HARLAN — Learn about the Harlan Community Library’s outdoor revitalization project at a family friendly event,“ Books & Beyond Kick-Off”, Thursday, January 23 at 5 p.m.  The event will feature a kids’ activity and refreshments will be served. “The library has become so very active the last eight years.

 SHELBY COUNTY — Four officers were elected during the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Shelby County extension council organizational meeting January 7, 2025.

 OMAHA — A Harlan native is finding out what the hype is with the Pro Volleyball Federation. Chloe Brouillard was chosen as a member of the inaugural hype squad for the Omaha Supernovas. Brouillard said the purpose of the squad, which includes cheer, dance, tumbling and stunts, is to add to the energy during home matches.

 STATEWIDE  — Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Susan Larson Christensen of Harlan addressed a joint convention of the General Assembly on the Condition of the Judiciary Wednesday, January 15 in the House Chambers of the Iowa State Capitol. The theme of Christensen’s fifth Condition of the Judiciary speech focused on commitment, while calling for a “modernization” of the state’s magistrate system,  increasing state district court judge pay and

 SHELBY COUNTY — Jennifer Sellner, County Youth Coordinator with Shelby County Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, has received the Pride of Extension Award for the Southwest Area.  The award was announced as part of the Southwest area County Services awards program held in Atlantic December 19. Sellner said she was honored to receive the award.

 ELK HORN — The Exira-EHK School District is considering the possibility of a four-day school week.  The district had an informational meeting Tuesday, January 7 for parents, guardians, and community members.  Superintendent Trevor Miller said there were approximately 55 in attendance.

 HARLAN  — Gervas Mgonja will be the new Harlan city administrator. The Harlan City Council voted unanimously to appoint Mgonja to the position during the Tuesday, January 7 Council Meeting. Mgonja brings over 20 years of experience in the financial service industry. He holds a master’s degree in business administration with advanced knowledge in strategic planning, financial analysis, and organizational leadership.

 ELK HORN — Tim Fredericksen has been caring for the Museum of Danish America (MODA) in Elk Horn since it opened in 1994. After decades of maintaining the building and grounds, Fredericksen has announced his retirement. “I started there right after it opened,” Fredericksen said.

 SHELBY COUNTY — The Shelby County Board of Supervisors began the new year with an organizational session January 2. Newly elected officials, Supervisors  Mike Kolbe and Charles Parkhurst and Auditor Taryn Knapp, took the oath of office for their positions. Bryce Schaben was elected Chairman of the Board and Charles Parkhurst will serve as Vice Chairman. Jay Ring was again appointed Weed Commissioner and Taryn Knapp  was named GIS Coordinator.

 STATEWIDE  — Iowa lawmakers will reconvene January 13 for the 2025 session, and the 91st Iowa General Assembly will bring new lawmakers to the Capitol.

HARLAN — In the early 1990’s, the Harlan Municipal Utilities (HMU) Board of Trustees began discussing a municipal telecommunications system. However, at the time, several hurdles stood in the way. In May 1995, residents of Harlan voted on two measures to establish broadband cable communications as a municipal utility, which passed, setting the stage for HMU to offer broadband cable and internet service.

SHELBY COUN TY — Myrtue Medical Center welcomed the first baby born in 2025.Baylor William Osbahr was born Friday, January 3. His parents are Brandon and Kynzie of Avoca.He weighed 7 pounds 4 ounces and has an older sister, Berklee Osbahr, who is one and a half years old.Grandparents are Bill Osbahr and Amy Osbahr of Avoca and Kyle Fichter and Heather Fichter of Randolph.

 HARLAN —  CPM, a leading solutions provider of process equipment, engineered technologies and aftermarket parts and services, announced the acquisition of Jacobs Global in Harlan. Representatives from CPM said the transaction will enhance the company’s product offerings, expand its market reach and add capacity to better serve CPM’s growing global customer base.