Ruth Anne Schneck will present a book talk and signing on Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Hawkins Memorial Library in La Porte City. She will discuss “Geoffrey’s Christmas Wish,” her newest book.

Reptiles wil be at the Van Horne Public Library on July 18th, 9:45 AM-10:45 AM at Van Horne Library.This event is FREE!Come out to the Van Horne Library to learn about Iowa reptiles with Benton County Conservation Naturalists! This program will include live animals and is appropriate for all ages.

IT'S FAIR TIME!!!! Make sure to mark your calendars and make sure to visit our booth this Friday and Saturday between 5:30-7:30 pm and purchase a few balls to dunk someone for a great cause! All proceeds go to the Vinton Special Olympics group.

Registration is required for the "Artistry with Aaron: Firefly in the Sky" painting class. Benton County Conservation is offering the class on July 6th, 6:30 PM at the Nature Center.

The Shellsburg American Legion Saturday morning breakfast is held each Saturday. The hours are 8 - 10 am for a FREE WILL DONATION.Menu:Every Saturday: Pancakes, Link Sausage and Scrambled Eggs Weekly Specials : 1st Sat: Sausage Gravy & Biscuits 2nd Sat: Sausage Gravy & Biscuits (leftover) 3rd Sat: Omelets to order (ham, cheese, peppers, onions, mushrooms)4th Sat: Waffles 5th Sat: Pancakes, Link Sausage, Scrambled EggsNever forget that at every minute of every day, there are members of our Armed Forces in harm's way and we need to pray for their safety and return home soonWe appreciate the past support for all the community does for the American Legion.

Wesley United Methodist Church Food Pantry will be open on Saturday, June 17 from 10-11:00 a.m. at the church. The church is located at 516 2nd Ave.

Virginia Gay Hospital continues its effort of supporting literacy in the community and will hold the Annual Bags & Baskets Silent Auction. The auction will raise funds for Reach Out & Read at the Vinton Family Medical Clinic.

The Urbana Alumni Banquet will be held on June 17 from 5-9:00 pm at the Don Bosco Hall in Urbana. Social hour will begin at 5:00 pm with a Buffet at 6:00 pm and a meeting following.

The Benton County Iowa State Extension Office and its 4-H Foundation are pleased to announce the return of “Ask an Expert” at the Benton County Fair.