News Headlines

Health Fair brings in more than 500 Visitors

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR - March 8th 2026 2:02 pm

Article Thumbnail. Benton County Suicide Prevention Coalition, offered support for attendees at this year's Health Fair

For the last several years, Virginia Gay Hospital has organized an amazing event in the Vinton-Shellsburg High School Gym. The event continues to grow!At these events, you are made aware of all of the services necessary to keep a community safe and functioning. It's always fun to see the local Vinton Police Department with their resident K-9. This was the first year for the new pup, Edo to meet the community.

Local Adult and Youth Volunteers needed for Youth Gardens

VINTON TODAY - March 6th 2026 11:47 am

Join us this summer at the Youth Gardens! On March 19, there will be an informational meeting at the Benton County Extension Office. The group is seeking the help of both adults and youth. For more information, call 319-472-4739

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Benton County Health & Wellness Fair, March 7th at Vinton-Shellsburg High School

VIRGINIA GAY HOSPITAL - March 5th 2026 12:48 pm

Benton County residents are invited to attend the Benton County Health & Wellness Fair on Saturday, March 7th, at Vinton-Shellsburg High School, held in conjunction the annual Kiwanis Club of Vinton with Pancake Breakfast.The Health & Wellness Fair will bring together dozens of local and regional organizations offering information, resources, and services focused on physical, mental, and community well-being.

Center Point-Urbana FFA finds success at Sub-Districts

FFA - March 5th 2026 11:50 am

By Co-Reporters: Audrey Seiler and Addyson SweeneyThe Center Point-Urbana FFA chapter had an outstanding day at sub-districts. Beginning with teams, Conduct of Chapter Meetings scored gold and placed 2nd overall. This team included Kolten McLaughlin, Kyla Russler, Brynne Hite, Tabitha Letts, Sophia Blackwell, Audrey Seiler, and Emily Cue. Bella Edler, Kinze Manson, and Hannah Walvatne competed in Chapter Program of Activities and received gold for their amazing presentation, demonstrating their deep knowledge of the chapter and events.

Discounted trees available at distribution events this spring

BENTON COUNTY CONSERVATION - March 4th 2026 1:02 pm

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), through a partnership with Alliant Energy, is offering a mixture of hardwoods, low-growing ornamental and evergreen tree species for $25 each.Alliant Energy customers can purchase up to two trees to be picked up at the following locations:● Tuesday, April 21, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Williams Park (610 H Ave, Ogden)● Thursday, April 23, 4:00-6:00 p.

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Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) Stakeholder Meeting

BENTON COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH - March 4th 2026 11:48 am

Benton County Public Health will be conducting our next Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) in 2026. The CHNA is a vital tool for identifying the most pressing health & human service needs within Benton County. It helps to guide and support local health initiatives by assessing community strengths, identifying gaps in services, and clarifying top health priorities for citizens.

Iowa’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dysart

DYSART CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - March 4th 2026 11:48 am

It may be short, but it is big on fun!Join us in downtown Dysart for Iowa’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17th at noon, organized by Mayor Tim Glenn.It’s quick, festive, and a fun community tradition you won’t want to miss. Wear your green and don’t blink!

Iowa Attorney General Bird stops at the Benton County Sheriff's Office

BENTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE - March 4th 2026 11:27 am

We had the pleasure of welcoming Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office yesterday! During her visit, we provided a tour of our facility and had an open discussion about the issues currently impacting Benton County, as well as the proactive work and positive momentum happening within our agency.We appreciate Attorn

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VGH: Top 100 Critical Access Hospital via the Chartis Center for Rural Health

VIRGINIA GAY HOSPITAL - March 3rd 2026 9:03 pm

Virginia Gay Hospital in Vinton, IA today announced it has been recognized as a 2026 Top 100 Critical Access Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. The Top 100 awards program celebrates outstanding performance annually among the nation’s rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®.“This recognition reflects the extraordinary dedication of our providers, nurses, and staff who deliver high-quality, compassionate care every day,” said Tina Eden, CEO of Virginia Gay Hospital.

Primary Season: First Candidates file to be on the June 2nd Primary Ballot

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR - March 2nd 2026 9:05 pm

Article Thumbnail. Bethany Hantz turns in her paperwork to be a candidate on the Primary Ballot. Pictured with Deputy Auditor, Gina Edler

The first candidate for the June 2, 2026 primary election ballot was Bethany Hantz. She filed her paperwork with the Benton County Auditor's Office bright and early on Monday morning, the first day that papers could be submitted. She will now be one of the candidates on the Republican ticket to run for Benton County Supervisor. Hantz said that she believes public office is built on trust and that elected officials must operate with openness and accountability.

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