As fall harvest begins across Iowa, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding farmers to stay alert to the risk of wildfires in crop fields. Dry conditions and low humidity can create dangerous fire hazards, and standing crops with low moisture levels are highly susceptible to ignition and rapid fire spread.

The DNR is encouraging farmers to review fire prevention practices and keep equipment “firewise” during harvest. Recommendations include:

• Preparing and maintaining machinery to reduce the chance of sparks or overheated bearings.

• Ensuring fire extinguishers are fully charged, the right size, and the correct type for field or electrical fires.

• Regularly cleaning combines and other equipment of combustible debris.

• Servicing grain storage and drying equipment to prevent dryer fires.

• Storing hay properly to prevent spontaneous combustion, keeping it away from combustibles and monitoring for signs of heat or odor.

• Creating fire breaks around fields, buildings, and storage sites to slow fire spread.

If a fire occurs, the DNR stresses calling 911 immediately and giving clear directions for responders. Farmers may assist by disking a fire break or spraying nearby vegetation, but safety should always come first.

For more details on harvest fire prevention, visit www.iowadnr.gov/fire

WAPELLO COUNTY – A tragic single-vehicle accident claimed one life Wednesday afternoon on Highway 34 near Exit 199, the Eldon interchange.

According to the Wapello County Sheriff’s Office, multiple 911 calls came in at approximately 4:19 p.m. on October 1, 2025, reporting a rollover crash.

First responders arrived on the scene and discovered one vehicle had overturned with a single occupant inside. Despite immediate lifesaving measures, the individual was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The name of the deceased is being withheld pending family notification.

The Wapello County Sheriff’s Office was assisted in the response by ORMICS, Batavia Fire and Rescue, and the Jefferson County Ambulance Service.

The crash remains under investigation, and authorities say additional information may be released as it becomes available.

The Wayland City Council will convene for its regular meeting this week, with a full agenda covering seasonal events, city operations, and grant opportunities. 

The evening will open with the Citizen Forum, where residents are invited to share comments on issues not listed on the agenda. The Mayor and Council reminded the public that remarks should remain brief to allow multiple voices to be heard, and no action will be taken during this portion of the meeting. 

Following that, the Council will consider the Consent Agenda, which includes routine items such as the approval of minutes from the September 17 meeting, bills for payment, and a renewal of certificates of deposit. Also listed are financial reports from the treasurer and clerk, along with departmental updates from the utility, police, and fire departments, as well as any recent building permits. 

Under unfinished business, the Council will take up two seasonal resolutions—one to set the official date and time for Trick-or-Treat Night in Wayland, and another to establish the schedule for the community’s

The 2025 Louisa County Fine Art Show proved to be a vibrant celebration of creativity, talent, and community spirit, drawing artists and art enthusiasts together for an unforgettable event. With 90 outstanding entries spanning multiple mediums, this year’s show highlighted the depth of artistic expression within the region. 

Organizers extended heartfelt gratitude to all participating artists, noting that each piece added its own unique voice to the event. The wide range of works displayed made the judges’ task especially challenging, but after thoughtful deliberation, category winners were announced. 

Category Award Winners: 

• Emerging Artist –
  Ella Kahn – Eyes of our Rainforest 

• Photography
  • 1st Place – : Shelly Servadio – Ruffles
  • 2nd Place – : Teran Buettell – spherical 

• 2D Artwork
  • 1st Place – : Brianna Faith Rivers – Our Choice to Cluster
  • 2nd Place –: John Carlson – Wail 

• 3D Artwork
  • 1st Place – : Justin Meier – Me, Myself, and Eye
  • 2nd Place –: Dani Henke – Speaks Volumes 

Show organizers also extended a special thank-you to judges Susan Reinier and Margaret Ertz, whose expertise and thoughtful evaluations helped guide the difficult process of selecting winners from such an impressive field. 

As the 2025 Louisa County Fine Art Show came to a close, the event left attendees with a renewed appreciation for the power of artistic expression and the importance of supporting local talent. 

The Henry County Heritage Center Museum in Mount Pleasant will continue its “Voices from the Past” program this weekend, offering the community a chance to hear powerful local stories preserved through recorded interviews. 

On Saturday, October 4th, the museum will feature a video interview with Caroline Schaffner at 1:30 p.m., followed by an interview with Glenwood Tolson at 2:30 p.m. Both presentations will be shown at the museum, located at 403 W. Madison Street in Mount Pleasant. 

The “Voices from the Past” series showcases first-hand accounts and memories from Henry County residents, preserving personal histories and community heritage for future generations. Each installment highlights unique perspectives and experiences, providing an intimate look into the lives of those who helped shape the area. 

The museum invites the public to attend, learn, and reflect on the stories of their neighbors and ancestors. Admission details and additional program information are available by contacting the Henry County Heritage Center Museum. 

The Henry County Board of Supervisors will convene for their regular weekly meeting on Thursday, October 2, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the Henry County Courthouse, 100 E. Washington St., Mount Pleasant. 

The session will open moving into a Department Head meeting, which allows county officials to provide updates on their offices and services. 

County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss is scheduled to deliver his weekly report on roads, bridges, and ongoing infrastructure projects. Hotchkiss’ updates typically cover maintenance work, construction progress, and any challenges facing the Secondary Roads Department. 

A key item on the agenda is the approval of the Henry County waste disposal contract. This agreement governs how the county manages solid waste, ensuring compliance with environmental standards and maintaining services for residents. 

The supervisors will also provide reports from their sub-committee assignments, offering insight into ongoing work in areas such as public health, finance, and community services. 

Meetings are open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend to stay informed on decisions impacting the community. 

On the morning of September 30, 2025, at approximately 8:16 a.m., the Henry County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a two-vehicle collision in the 2600 grid of River Road. 

According to the investigation, a 2010 Mack semi-truck driven by Michael Francy of Mount Pleasant was turning into a field drive when it was struck by a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The Jeep was driven by Sherrie Brewer, also of Mount Pleasant. 

Authorities reported minor damage to both vehicles. Fortunately, no injuries occurred in the crash. Brewer was cited for Unsafe Passing. 

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office reminds drivers to use extra caution when navigating rural roads and field entrances, especially during harvest season when large farm machinery and trucks frequently enter and exit fields. 

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office encourages its citizens to download the HCSO app to stay informed. 

It can be downloaded by following these links: 

Android Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ocv.a1427 

iOS Link: https://apps.apple.com/…/henry-county…/id6746723082