All commercial pesticide applicators must take exams in order to become initially certified and some choose to become re-certified by exam rather than by attending continuing instructional courses.

     EMC Insurance Companies has announced its 2011 "Leading Partners" and has distinguished Three Rivers Insurance of Vinton, Iowa is one of the highest-performing EMC agencies in the country, placing them in the top 15 percent  of all EMC agencies nationally.

  January 21, 2011   East-Central Iowa Rural Electric Cooperative Contact:  Frank Weber, member Service Director Direct phone:  319-443-3565   Contractor conference to promote energy-efficiency   East-Central Iowa Rural Electric Cooperative (ECI REC) will join other Iowa Touchstone Energy Cooperatives to sponsor the annual “Momentum Is Building” conference February 10-11, 2011, at the Sheraton West Des Moines hotel.

    More workers could be eligible for a special tax credit this year and not know it. As a result, they may overlook claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, which can put anywhere from $2 to more than $5,600 into their pockets.

  Unpredictable weather patterns, volatile markets and rising inputs costs will certainly challenge producers in 2011.  Iowa State University Extension in cooperation with program sponsors are offering the 2011 Ag Market Outlook Seminars.

  Vinton Unlimited had the privilege of welcoming the following businesses as new members in 2010: 5th Street Koffee Haus- 102 E 5th Street – Offering fresh brewed coffee, cappuccino, lattes, and many other items to get your day started off right.

  Vinton Unlimited would like to welcome Laura McClure and her employees during this busy tax season as the newest member of Vinton Unlimited.

  For Sale, Installation, and Maintenance of   ERGONOMIC CONSOLE FURNITURE for the Public Safety Answering Point   The Benton County Iowa Sheriff’s Office is establishing a new county‑wide Communication Control Center at the new Benton County Law Enforcement Center.

  Serving Buffet from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, Monday through  Friday. A choice of salads is available on the buffet. Everyone is WELCOME! Suggested contribution for  individuals 60 years old or older, and their spouse  (regardless of age) is $2.

  A successful agricultural operation needs more than a good owner/manager, quality animals, and appropriate facilities. Knowing the “how, when and why” of employee management also is a vital component that not everyone can claim.