News
Fundraisers established for the Meyer Family following fire that destroys home
The Meyer family of Shellsburg has lost everything in the fire that completely destroyed their home in Shellburg at about 4:00 a.m. on Saturday morning.Six family members lived in the home, including a mother, and her two sons, daughter-in-law and grandchildren. The mother and daughter-in-law were taken to the hospital following the incident. The daughter-in-law had to jump from a second-story window to escape the flames and injured her back in the fall which required surgery from that injury, she also suffered some burns. Iowa Public Information Board Upholds Complaints
The Iowa Public Information Board met on Thursday, to address complaints filed by Benton County residents. The board deals with complaints concerning Iowa law specifically those dealing with Chapters 21 and 22 which address Open and Closed Sessions for public officials. Between October 22 and November 20, ten separate complaints were filed against the Benton County Board of Supervisors stating violations of Iowa Code; Chapters 21 and 22. FFA Spaghetti Dinner Serves Up Excitement
By: Co-Reporter Izzie Birker The Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter recently held its annual Spaghetti Dinner event in the high school commons during a home basketball game on Tuesday, February 6th. Both the High School and Middle School FFA members participated in serving meals, cooking food, cleaning, and greeting guests. The members served a delightful spread that included spaghetti, salad, cookies, and refreshing drinks. Benton County Veterans Affairs Executive Director Resigns, Seeking Applications
Benton County Veterans Affairs is now accepting applications for the position of Director. Current Director, Cara Martin has served just under three years in the county position. On February 1, 2024, she submitted her formal resignation to the county.Serving on the board for Veterans Affairs are Dale Henry, Michael Silhanek and Courtney Long. Henry said of Martin, "Cara has an opportunity to move into a position to better help veterans, which is her passion.
Cookies will help a family fight for someone else
When the community loses a member of its own, and that member is gone way too early, it hits everyone. It doesn't matter if you know the person or not, chances are you know at least one member of the family. Then you see someone reaching out and using social media for good, during this terrible, sad, no-good situation. But I wasn't surprised, not in Vinton. BENTON COUNTY CARE FACILITY FARM LAND FOR RENT
NOTICE
BENTON COUNTY CARE FACILITY FARM LAND FOR RENT
38 Acres more or less
All tillable
TERMS: CASH
All that part of the East one-half of the SE ¼ of Section 22 in Taylor Township lying south of the railroad right-of-way, excepting
there from approximately five acres on which the buildings of the care facility are located. All tillable. Lease is for a three-year term.
Two injured in Shellsburg fire on Saturday morning
There were two injured in a house fire in Shellsburg early on Saturday morning. The fire was located in the 100 block of Grove Street in Shellsburg. The injured were taken by helicopter to the hospital for treatment. Their conditions are unknown at this time. There were also three pets that were lost in the fire. Neighboring properties had damage from the heat including melted siding and some vehicle damage. Opportunity for community input on school facility planning
Residents of the Vinton-Shellsburg School District are encouraged to attend events on February 20, March 14Residents of the Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District will have an opportunity to provide input on potential facility projects at two upcoming events on February 20 and March 14.On Feb. 20, residents can tour all the district buildings from 5 to 6:15 p.
Belle Plaine Native Chekal Recognized as Senior Sailor of the Year
The Navy Office of Community Outreach announced that Belle Plaine native, Petty Officer 1st Class Blake Chekal, was named the Senior Sailor of the Year aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. This distinction is given to an exemplary sailor selected by a board of senior enlisted out of multiple competitive entries.
Chekal joined the Navy 12 years ago and serves today as a machinist mate (nuclear) responsible for the operation of the propulsion plants onboard. Faith Independent Baptist Church Welcomes Everyone
The building known as Faith Independent Baptist Church, located at 911 D. Ave. in Vinton, has been holding services since it was built in 1882. Before it was a Baptist church, it was a Free Methodist church and started originally as the Catholic Church. Several congregations have passed through these doors and the Baptist services continue to this day.