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St. Lucia Day in Stratford is today

STRATFORD — Stratford Lutheran Church, 812 Teneyck Ave., Stratford, is holding Svenska Klubben Christmas luncheon at 7 p.m. today. There will be a short program for Luciadagen (St. Lucia Day), one of Sweden’s most beloved holidays. Those attending will learn about the history of St. Lucia and join in singing some traditional songs. Immediately following the program is a Christmas luncheon. Both events will be held in the church’s social room. Meats and tableware will be provided. Bring a side dish, a salad or a dessert (or all three).

FDPL holding adult DIY Thursday

The Fort Dodge Public Library, 424 Central Ave., is hosting a December adult DIY from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday to make honeycomb ornaments. What better way to get into the festive spirit than an afternoon of ornament making. These honeycomb ornaments will be perfect to hang on your trees. For more information, contact the library at 515-573-8167, ext. 6233, or visit the library website at www.fortdodgelibrary.org.

Second fire reported Thursday

A structure fire caused significant damage to a home on the south side of Fort Dodge on Thursday afternoon. The Fort Dodge Fire Department responded to a two-story wood frame home engulfed in flames at 1207 S. 24th St. shortly after 3 p.m. The crew executed its search, forcible entry and attack operations to address a fire that had stretched from the main floor to the upstairs area. Multiple handlines were used to bring the fire under control. A second alarm was requested, and six off-duty firefighters were called back to assist with extensive overhaul. No one was home at the time, ...

Some weekend events are canceled or rescheduled due to weather

The Blanden Holiday Open House scheduled for Saturday is canceled due to the potential of significant snow and frigid temps below zero. • HARCOURT — Jamie Aaron Kelley fourth annual Christmas Tour is coming to the Lost Grove Community Center, 116 Larch St., Harcourt, at 7 p.m. on Dec. 20. The event was rescheduled to the weather. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. This is a family-friendly Christmas show. A freewill offering will be accepted for the Lost Grove Community Center preservation fund. • LEHIGH — The Lehigh Lions Club Deer Hunters Breakfast for Saturday has been ...

State hunting, fishing licenses to go on sale

Iowans can buy 2026 resident hunting, fishing and other licenses beginning on Dec. 15, according to an announcement from the state Department of Natural Resources. Licenses purchased for 2025 expire on Jan. 10. The menu of license options includes the popular Outdoor Combo annual resident hunting/fishing/habitat combo license for $55; the Angler’s Special three-year fishing license for $62; and the Hunter’s Special three-year hunting license with habitat included for $101. Also available is the Bonus Line option for $14 letting resident and nonresident anglers to fish with one ...

FDPD gets new sergeant, patrol officer

A newly promoted Fort Dodge Police Department sergeant and a new patrol officer were introduced to the City Council Monday evening. Andrew Lane was promoted from patrol officer to sergeant. He started his law enforcement career with the Humboldt Police Department and joined the Fort Dodge force in July 2018. Since that time he has served on the Special Emergency Response Team and as a field training officer. He is also an instructor for radar and for combatives and self-defense. Lane is a veteran of the Iowa Army National Guard. Mason Steinberger is the department’s newest ...