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News
If you thought it was a little windy and rainy on Friday...
The National Weather Service Storm Survey confirmed that a tornado tracked through portions of Benton and Linn Counties (southwest of Center Point, Iowa) last Friday afternoon (7/11/2025). It was rated an EF-1 with peak winds estimated at 95 mph.Be sure to check the roof of the house and outbuildings just in case there might be storm damage that needs to be reported to your insurance company. National school voucher program included in ‘big, beautiful’ law, with no cap
By Shauneed MirandaA national private school voucher program is now law, though the school choice initiative comes with a huge caveat. States also choose — whether or not to participate. It’s a setback for advocates who hoped to see the program — baked into the mega tax and spending cut bill President Donald Trump signed into law on July Fourth — mandated in all 50 states.
BENTON COUNTY AUDITOR’S OFFICE FULL-TIME CLERK
The Benton County Auditor’s Office will be accepting applications for a full-time clerk through
Friday, July 25, 2025. The position will be responsible for assisting the Auditor and/or Deputy Auditor
with his/her duties including, but not limited to: working with governmental processes relating to
budgeting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, maintaining accurate real estate records,
fixed asset reporting, website maintenance, voter registration, as well as other routine clerical duties as
assigned including elections.
"West" Bound and Down
It wasn't Smokey and the Bandit, but if you're on Highway 30, be careful out there. On Saturday, area law enforcement had the task of trying to stop an 80,000 pound semi with government-issued vehicles. The chase originated in Benton County but sped out of the county and included officers from Tama County, Iowa State Patrol and the Belle Plaine Police Department. 13th Annual Party in Pink a Success
As I reflect on today, I'm filled with gratitude for the incredible support from our community. Despite the rainy start, the 13th Annual Party in Pink 5K/10K was a true success-wrapped up beautifully with a rainbow.Over 100 amazing volunteers and more than 100 dedicated participants showed up with heart and spirit. Some 10K runners braved water hazards and came back smiling, while over half chose to do the 5K route twice-and did so with impressive times!To everyone who took on the 5K-your grit and tenacity were inspiring.
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PARTY IN THE PARK SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, JULY 11, 5 PM TO 9 PM AT COURTHOUSE LAWN5 PM - FARMERS SAVINGS BANK & TRUST Community Picnic: Free hots dogs, chips & drinks served from the bank’s parking lot (401 B Ave)6:30 PM - KIDDIE PARADE: Let your imagination be your guide and dress up like you’re living in the 80’s! Decorate your bike, your stroller or your wagon. Kids in 5th grade and under are invited to participate and join the fun! (Line-up is at Farmers Savings Bank & Trust.
Welcome East Unit Park Ranger!
By Will SouerHello, my name is Will Souer and I am the newest Park Ranger for
Benton County Conservation. I work primarily out of the river
parks: Wildcat, Benton City, and Hoefle-Dulin, but you may see
me at any of our properties as I work closely with our other
Rangers and conservation staff to provide quality services for all
Benton County residents and park users. Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Hosts Summer Potluck for Members and Families
By: Co-Reporter, Abby McKennaOn Sunday, June 22nd at 6:00 PM, the Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter hosted a summer potluck in the high school commons. The event brought together FFA members and their families for an evening of food, fun, and fellowship.Each family contributed a variety of delicious dishes, creating a diverse and tasty spread that everyone could enjoy.
Supreme Court Approves Grants to Support Civil Legal Services for Low-Income
Iowa Supreme Court has approved $1,177,030 in grants to nonprofit programs that provide legal assistance to low-income Iowans with civil legal problems. The court awarded grants to fourteen different organizations throughout Iowa. The grants are funded by the Interest on Lawyers' Trust Account (IOLTA) program. With this year's grants, the supreme court has awarded more than $27 million in IOLTA grants since the program began on July 1, 1985.
Cornell hires Levis as new vice president, CFO, treasurer
Cornell College is proud to announce the hire of Rob Levis as the new vice president, chieffinancial officer, and treasurer.Levis comes to Cornell with nearly four decades of experience in finance, leadership, andoperations. Most recently, he has worked with AmeriCorps since 2008, leading budgeting andoperations of the program and residential campus in Vinton, Iowa.
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