Et Cetera

Great Seats Available for 2012 Iowa State Fair Grandstand Shows

  Music-loving Fairgoers still have time to purchase tickets for this year's line-up of award-winning Grandstand entertainment and track events. "Nothing Compares" to the 2012 Iowa State Fair set August 9-19. Seats are still available for performances by hit Christian performer TobyMac, country stars Hank Williams Jr. and Miranda Lambert, pop-rockers Big Time Rush, and comedian Larry the Cable Guy.

Half-off Park & Ride Shuttle Offers State Fairgoers Value, Convenience

  Fairgoers can enjoy special half price savings and extended hours for DART Park & Ride shuttles to the Iowa State Fair. Park for free at any of the three Park and Ride locations and catch the bus for a quick and easy direct trip to the Fair. "Nothing Compares" to saving time and money with DART Park & Ride. The Iowa State Fair is set August 9-19.

Fabric and Threads Offers State Fairgoers Hands-On Crafts

  The Iowa State Fair invites Fairgoers to get involved with the Fabric and Threads department with a variety of hands-on crafts and sewing projects to participate in. "Nothing Compares" to the 2012 Iowa State Fair set August 9-19. The State Fair Sew-In will be open each Fair day from noon until 5 p.m. in the William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building.

Iowa State Fair Animal Learning Center Brings New Exhibits and Fair

  Celebrating six years at the Iowa State Fair, the Paul R. Knapp Animal Learning Center continues to educate and delight Fairgoers of all ages. "Nothing Compares" to this hub of agricultural activity that will feature young farm animals and fresh educational programming August 9-19. Learn about fish farming in Iowa at the new aquaculture exhibit, which features two 500 gallon tanks with viewing windows to see tilapia at different stages of development.

Iowa State Fair, Google Launch Partnership for 2012 Iowa State Fair

  Google to Broadcast Fair Highlights and Special Events A media partnership was announced today between Google and the Iowa State Fair to bring a new perspective on the Fair to both Iowans and non-Iowans. Using Google's video and social media platforms, the Iowa State Fair will use the power of the internet to show the world that "Nothing Compares" to the Iowa State Fair, set August 9-19.

AmeriCorps NCCC Class 18 Corps Member Spotlight: Jerome Frey

Jerome Frey       Name: Jerome Frey Hometown: Woodbury, Conn.   Jerome is currently serving as a member of Cedar 4 with the AmeriCorps NCCC at the Vinton Campus. Jerome has a variety of experiences that are assisting him in his success as a Corps Member. Jerome has worked with non-profit organizations for many years, including, Trumbull Loves Children Inc.

Tired of shucking your corn? Try this microwave method

Aw, Shucks! The secret to removing the corn from the ear of this Iowa-grown treat, is in the microwa Duane Randall saw it on YouTube. Bob Moen and Laurie Ortner tried it. Yes, indeed, you can use a microwave oven to make corn shucking easier.  The three tried -- and succeeded -- several times on Thursday during the weekly Vinton Farmers Market at the Vinton Depot. It's simple: Place an entire ear of corn in the microwave -- Bob set the timer for 4 minutes.

Race fans support Friends of the Shelter

Volunteers from Friends of the Shelter collected donations from race fans at BC Speedway July 22.   Hot weather didn't distract fans at the Benton County Speedway from showing their support of the local "Friends of the Shelter" organization during Fuzzy Friends and Hawaiian night on Sunday, July 22nd. Everyone was encouraged to wear their Hawaiian themed clothing and bring donations of pet supplies. Hundreds of fans entered the gates carrying bags of dog food, cat toys, treats and more.

It Was Supposed to be a Movie

    T’was just another boring eve; We planned to see a movie. A date night you could call it; Just me and my wife Suzy.     A brand new movie set to start; It wasn’t in our town. We thought about which one to see, Then decided we’d stay home.     We woke up early the next day.

Lost Dog: Family missing golden retriever from Dysart area

This dog is missing from the Dysart area; can you help find her? The following lost dog has been reported to the Friends of the Vinton Animal Shelter: Missing: female golden retriever about 70 pounds from northeast of Dysart (Bruce township area).  She went missing July 8. She has a choke collar and another red collar. If you have any information please call the Vinton/Benton Co. Animal Shelter at (319) 472-4623 or email vintonshelter@yahoo.