In celebration of 529 Day, State Treasurer Roby Smith began a new a social media campaign to raise awareness for the ISave 529 plan, and encourage families to take a step toward planning for their children’s future by opening and contributing to ISave 529.

The following are Hawkeye Community College spring semester graduates and their programs of study. Graduates are listed in alphabetical order by hometown.

Renaming the Library For over four decades, the Hawkins Memorial Library has stood as a cherished cornerstone of La Porte City, providing access to information, connections with one another, and enrichment for generations of residents.

 The following students from Benton County, are members of the graduating class of 2025 at the University of Dubuque:Belle Plaine, IABonnie Koeppen, Doctor of MinistryNewhall, IAEthan Hudson, Bachelor of Science, Cum LaudeVinton, IABryce Radeke, Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum LaudeThis spring, the University of Dubuque celebrated the academic accomplishments of undergraduate, graduate, and seminary students with two commencement ceremonies on campus.

The University of Dubuque congratulates the following students on being appointed to the Spring Semester 2025 Academic Dean's List. Shellsburg, IA  Bree SwensonVinton, IA  Bryce RadekeWalford, IA  Gage WeberFull-time students in good academic standing (registered for and having earned 12 or more letter grade credits for the term) who earn a term grade point average of 3.

 The 2025 Kirkwood Community College Commencement Ceremony was held on Saturday, May 17, at 10 a.m. at the Alliant Energy PowerHouse in downtown Cedar Rapids.

Julie Games of West Union, Iowa, presented the Martin & Julie Games Cheer and Dance Scholarship to 2025 recipient Madelyn Wolf of Atkins, Iowa. A dedicated member of the Peacock Cheer and Dance team, Madelyn is entering her senior year and is pursuing business administration, marketing, and public relationsUpper Iowa University (UIU) celebrated academic excellence during its annual Honors and Awards Banquet on Saturday, April 12, at the Fayette Campus.

I recently reread 'True Biz' by Sara Novic, my choice for May's Community Book Club. This novel was my favorite read of 2023; it is a celebratory amalgam of deaf culture, teenage angst, punk rock, and our overarching need for human connection and community.

Shellsburg Public Library is hiring an assistant librarian.  Looking for part-time work, love helping people and enjoy creating fun programs?  SPL has a position that will start Mid July and will be 10 hours per week.

Just finished Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros — book 2 in the Empyrean series.OMG Violet Sorrengail’s second year at Basgiath War College is even more intense! Action? Twists? That CLIFFHANGER? I couldn’t put it down.