News Headlines

Schwab, 2nd Place at Regional National Geography Bee, Internationals Bound!

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR - March 19th 2026 7:24 pm

Keegan Schwab, has always had a passion for learning about the world. As a result, he placed second in a regional National Geography Bee, which is an incredible achievement for someone in the 6th grade. Because of his hard work and dedication, Keegan now qualifies for both the national and international competitions! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for him to represent the Vinton community and pursue his dreams on a much larger stage.

Wesley United Methodist Church provides food to area families each month

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR - March 19th 2026 7:04 pm

On the third Saturday, Wesley's Mobile Food Pantry provides food to area families. Last month, approximately 70 area families benefited from the generousity of the organization. The group had help from area scouts and several volunteers to pull off the event. (Hint: The pantry noted that help provided by area youth is appreciated...) Last month, they were able to provide tie blankets and quilts, generously made by the Scouts and others to those who needed one.

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Welcome Our New North Unit Park Ranger!

BENTON COUNTY CONSERVATION - March 19th 2026 12:53 pm

Article Thumbnail. Ranger Wille and with a giraffe at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

By Austin Wille, North Unit Park RangerHello! My name is Austin Wille, the North Unit Park Ranger for Benton County Conservation. I will be stationed at Rodger’s Park in Vinton, but work at all the parks and recreation areas all across the county as needed. If you see me, stop and say hello!I grew up in the Cedar Rapids area, with family ties to Benton County.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day a week late with Bob Black & Banjoy on March 22

FARMERS MERCANTILE HALL - March 18th 2026 6:29 pm

Because of the weather, Bob Black and Banjoy will be in Garrison to celebrate St Patrick's Day, this coming Sunday, March 22. Enjoy Bluegrass style, and some lively Irish tunes, songs and sing-alongs, featuring Joy Ward on the fiddle! Be ready for some great music and some delicious refreshments! Hope to see you there!Refreshments will be provided by the Garrison LibraryJoin us on Sunday, March 22nd from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pmAdmission $15, children free!Farmers Mercantile Hall is located at 100 W Main St.

80th Baby Girl saved through Iowa's Safe Haven Act in March

IOWA HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - March 18th 2026 4:44 pm

Through the Safe Haven Law, a baby girl, born March 6 is now in the care and custody of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and will be placed with a foster family until permanent placement is determined. This brings the overall total to 80 infants since the law went into effect more than two decades ago.Iowa’s Safe Haven Act is an option for parents in crisis who determine they cannot care for an infant up to 90 days old.

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Iowa Nurse Leaders Day on the Hill

VIRGINIA GAY HOSPITAL - March 18th 2026 3:54 pm

Article Thumbnail. Tina Eden, Virginia Gay Hospital's CEO pictured with Charlie McClinton, State Senator

More than 240 Iowa Nurse Leaders Gather at the State Capitol for Iowa Organization for Nursing Leadership Day on the HillOn Wednesday, March 11, more than 240 nursing leaders and advocates, representing 76 Iowa hospitals and health systems across the state, gathered at the Iowa State Capitol for the Iowa Organization for Nursing Leadership (IONL) annual Day on the Hill.

Easter Week happenings

VINTON TODAY - March 18th 2026 11:54 am

Easter Egg HuntShellsburg - March 28Join the Shellsburg Area Community Group for the Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28 at 10:00 a.m. at the Shellsburg City Park. Any kid through 5th Grade is welcome...don't forget to bring a bag or basket!Watch this page for weather cancellations. Holy Week Services - 2026 - Ecumenical Services: (Click through photos to see flyer)7 – 7:30 a.

Vinton Community Foundation Accepting Grant Applications through April 15

VINTON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION - March 18th 2026 9:22 am

Left to right:Dakoda Sellers – representing Vinton City CouncilKyle Koeppen – representing the Vinton Shellsburg School DistrictKristine Horst – representing Vinton UnlimitedDeb Wilberg – representing Farmers Savings Bank & Trust Absent: Anne Williams representing the Vinton Area Ministerial Association.---One hundred percent of your tax-deductible contributions are used for the betterment of the Vinton community.

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George G Lucky American Legion Post 57 donates to the Iowa Veterans Home

VINTON TODAY - March 18th 2026 8:32 am

The George G Lucky American Legion Auxiliary Post 57 of Vinton, Iowa recently donated funds in the amount of $11,919.90 to the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, Iowa for the purchase of three Blanket Warmer Cabinets. This project was supported by a grant from the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation. These blanket warmers will be used in the residential facilities for the benefit of the residents.

Free Dental Care For Kids April 3 at Hawkeye Community College Dental Clinic

HAWKEYE COMMUNITY COLLEGE - March 17th 2026 3:54 pm

Part of American Dental Association’s Give Kids a Smile® InitiativeFree dental care is available for children ages 3-14 during a special Give Kids a Smile® event planned for Friday, April 3, 2026, from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. in the Dental Clinic at Hawkeye Community College, 1501 E. Orange Rd, Waterloo, Iowa. Give Kids a Smile® is a national outreach program dedicated to improving children’s oral health by providing free dental care and education to underserved kids.

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