HARLAN — The gears have stopped turning, and the dust has settled on an intense season for Cyclone Robotics, Team #9543. Competing at the prestigious FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Iowa Regional, the local squad proved that size isn’t everything when it comes to engineering, grit, and community spirit.

SHELBY COUNTY — Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Week will be celebrated April 6–11, recognizing the organization’s role in connecting Iowans with research-based education and resources in all 99 counties. With county extension offices, specialists and staff located statewide, the annual observance also serves as a thank-you to Iowans for their continued support.

STATEWIDE — The full route for RAGBRAI LIII has been announced, and riders will see a substantial amount of Shelby County in the first few days of the ride.
The pass-through and meeting towns were announced Friday, and Ride Director Matt Phippen said the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa will offer “quintessential American experiences.”

HARLAN — U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, stopped by Sunset Scoops in Harlan on Monday evening to honor them with the Small Business of the Week award.
Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa’s 99 counties.

HARLAN — Phil Koesters was honored at a Quilt of Valor Ceremony in Harlan on March 29.
The mission of the Quilt of Valor organization is to honor service members and veterans with the comfort and healing of a patriotic quilt.
Phil served in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964, being discharged at the rank of E4. He served during the Cold War era.

HARLAN — As preparations continue for RAGBRAI’s arrival in Harlan, the Executive Committee Chair, in coordination with the Entertainment and Special Events Group, has finalized a lineup designed to provide engaging entertainment and a memorable experience for both riders and local residents.

HARLAN — In a meeting held Thursday, March 26, the Harlan Municipal Utilities Board of Trustees voted to continue adding fluoride to the city’s water supply. The decision followed a thorough discussion and public input from both residents and health officials.

STATEWIDE — Abigail Maas, a farmer, business owner and county supervisor from Parnell, has announced her candidacy on the Republican ticket for Iowa State Auditor, citing concerns over government spending, property taxes and a lack of oversight at the local level.
Maas, 34, said her decision to run stems from frustration with recurring reports of financial mismanagement across the state.

Dorothy Arlene Hall, affectionately known as “Dottie,” was born on March 14, 1926, to Alvin and Esther (Havick) Davis in Harlan, Iowa. Her mother passed away when she was only nine months old. Dorothy was then raised with the help of Alvin’s parents until he later married Lela Balcom. Alvin and Lela were married over 50 years and shared a loving family together.