News

Santa and his elves have been raising funds by taking a turn ringing the bell for the Red Kettle campaign. I have it on good authority that more elves are needed in the next couple of weeks! Here are the slots that are not filled…if you can lend a hand it would be so appreciated! (And if you are worried about the temperatures you can ring inside!)Call 319-329-7119 to sign up for an hour or two!Ringing ends Dec 24th.

Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Endangered Species Act Protection for Monarch Butterfly; Urges Increased Public Engagement to Help Save the SpeciesThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing protection for one of the nation’s most beloved species -- the monarch butterfly -- and is encouraging the public to be part of its recovery. The Service is seeking public input on a proposal to list the species as threatened with species-specific protections and flexibilities to encourage conservation under section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

"Some people think they are in community, but they are only in proximity. True community requires commitment and openness. It is a willingness to extend yourself to encounter and know the other." David SpanglerThis past Saturday evening Vinton Fire Department hosted our annual Christmas party at the fire station. This party is many things: a look back on the year with plenty of laughs, recognition of years of service and retirements, a reunion of retired members, and a show of appreciation to other community members (City Council and Rural Board members, and donors) and departments (mutual aid depts, Vinton Police Department, North Benton Ambulance, Benton County, Iowa Sheriff's Office, Benton Co Emergency Management) for their assistance throughout the year.

Have you ever run out of good puzzles? Tired of recreating the same old puzzles year after year? The Vinton Public Library will be holding a Puzzle Swap from January 10-22nd. Adults can bring a puzzle and swap it out from a selection of other puzzles in the community! 

Attached you will see the calendar for garbage pickup in Vinton for 2025.

Festive celebrations, flickering lights and winter greens are hallmarks of the holiday season, but they also present fire risks that can quickly turn this festive time of year into a devastating one. NFPA works to educate the public about potential fire risks during the holidays, offering tip sheets, videos, and other resources to help everyone safely enjoy the Winter Holiday Fire FactsU.

To all interested bidders: Benton County Conservation now is accepting sealed bid proposals at the Benton County Conservation Nature Center (5718 20th Ave Dr, Vinton, IA 52349) until 12:00pm, Friday, January 10, 2025 for the purchase of a lot located within Vinton City Limits, 0.62 acres at 5999 25th Ave Trl, Vinton, IA 52349; parcel#24041820.

Pictured is not the girl mentioned in the story-this family left before the writer realized they should have captured a photo. However, pictured are two other children who love the tradition of giving into the Red Kettle at Christmas time.1st picture-   Mya Good gives to the Red Kettle Campaign2nd picture- Everly Trachta and her mom Nicole pause to bless those in need this season.

The Vinton Police Department is proud to announce its participation in the iPledge Program, an initiative by the Iowa Department of Revenue to educate retailers and enforce Iowa’s tobacco, alternative nicotine, and vapor product laws. This program is a critical step in safeguarding the health of our community, especially our youth, by ensuring compliance with state regulations.

On Friday, Doug and Janet Schwandt suffered the loss of their home at Timber Ridge Trailer court just south of Shellsburg along with all their belongings. The couple could use any help. Janet suffered a medical emergency while in the hospital in Iowa City and wasn’t expected to live. She survived but is now facing this devastating loss. The couples needs everything.