Fort Madison Fire & Rescue responded yesterday, Thursday, around 4:15 p.m. to a structure fire at 1817 Avenue F after dispatch received a 911 call reporting smoke coming from the roof of the residence.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke coming from the home and active fire in the kitchen area with extension into the attic space.

Conditions at the time were snowy and extremely slick road conditions.

Crews made an interior attack to knock down the kitchen fire while additional firefighters worked from the exterior to address flames within the attic and roofline. As conditions deteriorated and portions of the roof began to sag, crews were withdrawn from the interior for safety and suppression continued from the exterior.

The fire was brought under control at approximately 5:15 p.m.

Utility crews from Alliant Energy and MidAmerican Energy responded to secure electrical and natural gas services.
One dog was safely removed from the residence prior to the fire department’s arrival by a passerby who noticed smoke coming from the home. No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is believed to have originated in the kitchen, in a toaster located on the stovetop. The residence did not have active homeowner’s insurance.

Fire crews remained on scene into the evening performing overhaul and checking for hot spots. All units were cleared from the scene by 6:30 p.m.

Units responding included: 9400, 9411, 9415, 9442, 9454, and 9473, along with the Fort Madison Police Department, Lee County EMS, and LeeComm Dispatch.

Fort Madison Fire & Rescue would like to thank responding agencies, utility partners, and the members of the public for their assistance.

Holiday plants bring color and life to our homes during the winter months. From the scent of a fresh-cut Christmas tree to the bright bracts of poinsettias and the bold blooms of amaryllis, these plants are a big part of seasonal decor.

Aaron Steil, consumer horticulture extension specialist at Iowa State University, offers care tips to keep holiday plants healthy and appealing throughout the holidays and beyond.

Keep cut trees watered
A fresh-cut Christmas tree is often the centerpiece of holiday decorating. When choosing a tree, look for green needles that bend easily and stay attached when you shake the branches. Before placing the tree in its stand, cut about half an inch off the base of the trunk. This helps the tree absorb water. Keep the stand filled with water at all times. A tree can absorb a gallon or more in the first day.

Additionally, place the tree away from fireplaces, radiators and sunny windows to prevent it from drying out too quickly. “Checking the water level daily is the most important thing you can do to keep your tree fresh,” said Steil.

Live wreaths stay fresh outdoors
Live wreaths are another holiday favorite. To keep them looking fresh, start with greenery that is not dry or losing its needles. “The ideal conditions for wreaths are moist and cool,” Steil noted.

In most cases, live wreaths will only last a week indoors before drying out; however, in outdoor winter temperatures, they can remain green for months. Keeping wreaths out of direct sunlight and heat can also further their longevity. Additionally, an anti-desiccant spray can help slow moisture loss, keeping them fresher for a longer period.

Don’t overwater poinsettias
Poinsettias are known for their colorful bracts and deep green leaves. They thrive in bright, indirect light and temperatures between 65 F and 75 F. Keep them away from drafts and heating vents to avoid leaf drop. Water them only when the top of the soil feels dry, and avoid letting the plants sit in water.

If your plant is wrapped in decorative foil, drain the excess water. “Most poinsettias do not need abundant watering through December,” said Steil. “Overwatering might be the number one reason why poinsettias die before the end of the year.”

Amaryllis makes an easy-to-care-for gift
Amaryllis bulbs produce large, showy flowers that brighten any space. Plant the bulb in a pot with the top third of the bulb above the soil. Water lightly until growth starts, then keep the soil moist. Next, place the pot in bright light so the stalk grows strong. “When growing in low light, the stalk may get quite tall and lean. By placing it in abundant light, flower stalks will stay shorter and are less likely to tip over,” mentioned Steil.

Waxed amaryllis bulbs have become popular for their convenience and ease. They require no soil or watering. Simply place the bulb in a bright location and enjoy the blooms. “Waxed bulbs are a great low-maintenance option, making them a great gift,” Steil said.
Save plants at the end of the holidays

After the holidays, don’t throw your holiday plants away. While poinsettias and waxed amaryllis bulbs are intended to be composted at the end of the season, they can be saved and even rebloom with the right care. After the flowers fade on amaryllis bulbs, cut the stalk, but leave the leaves. Continue watering and fertilizing to allow the bulb to store energy for next year. “Amaryllis can bloom year after year if you care for the bulb properly,” Steil explained.

Evergreen branches from wreaths and trees can also be composted or chipped for mulch. Trees can be set outside for the remainder of winter for birds and animals to use as shelter, or branches can be laid over perennial garden beds to provide additional protection from the cold. “With a little attention, holiday plants will stay fresh and add beauty to your celebrations,” said Steil.

The Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Education has named three finalists in its search for the district’s next superintendent.

Following a review process conducted with Grundmeyer Leader Services, the board selected Dr. Sharon Dentlinger, Ken Kasper, and Derek Philips as finalists for the position.

Dr. Dentlinger currently serves as an assistant professor of practice and superintendent program coordinator at the University of Northern Iowa, where she prepares aspiring superintendents and leads strategic planning efforts. She also serves as director of special education for the Knoxville Community School District and previously worked as superintendent and curriculum director for the Interstate 35 Community School District.

Kasper is the current superintendent for the Garner Hayfield Ventura and Rudd Rockford Marble Rock Community School Districts. During his tenure, district academic ratings improved and student participation in advanced coursework and career programs expanded. His background also includes roles as a principal, assistant principal, and science teacher in several Iowa districts.

Philips serves as principal of Davis County High School in Bloomfield, where he oversees staff and students in grades nine through twelve. His experience includes implementing instructional feedback systems, strengthening professional development, and improving staff retention. He has also previously served as superintendent of the Pekin Community School District.

Formal interviews with each finalist are scheduled for Tuesday, December 16. The board plans to discuss the candidates and make a final decision following the interviews.

The selected superintendent is expected to begin leading the district on July 1, 2026.

Attached is the announcement from Mt. Pleasant Community School District

The Henry County Board of Supervisors convened on Thursday, December 11, 2025, addressing routine business items including county engineer updates, a discussion and possible action on seeking outside counsel for the Carlos Lopez reimbursement, and a conversation with local morticians regarding county responsibilities.

County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss Weekly Updates

The board received an update from County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss. He reminded the board and the public that the bridge on 235th is now closed for replacement. He noted ongoing issues with motorists ignoring or missing detour signage and attempting to use 235th to enter or exit town. Hotchkiss said the current signage meets DOT standards, but they are discussing additional barricades to prevent drivers from using the closed route.
He also presented a potential lease agreement that would allow ITC to store equipment at the Rock Quarry, which the board will review before making a decision at the next meeting. Hotchkiss informed the board that Secondary Roads had planned to replace a truck next year, but due to long lead times, the ordering process needs to begin before the next fiscal year. The estimated cost of the truck is approximately $250,000.

Discussion & Possible Action Seeking Outside Counsel for Reimbursement to Carlos Lopez

Chad White opened the discussion by stating he agrees that Carlos Lopez should be reimbursed for his legal fees. However, he believes the supervisors should seek outside counsel for an unbiased legal opinion to confirm the county’s authority to issue the reimbursement. Steve Detrick agreed Lopez should be reimbursed but disagreed on hiring outside counsel, saying he believes the code already makes the county’s authority clear. The board ultimately voted 2 to 1 to seek outside counsel, with Steve Detrick voting against. During public comment, several residents expressed frustration with the decision, urging the board to stop “kicking the can down the road.” The board then adjourned and reconvened at 11 a.m. with local morticians.

Discussion with Local Morticians & County Responsibilities

The supervisors met at 11 a.m. with morticians from Mount Pleasant, Winfield, and New London. The discussion focused on the cost of removals and cremations for low-income individuals who qualify for county assistance. The board requested that morticians submit a breakdown of their service costs. They will then meet with Katie Reuter, Director of Public Health, to discuss how the county may revise eligibility requirements for these services.