Caption: The Benton Community FFA Parliamentary Procedure team of Alex Welte, Tegan Bertka, Evan Patterson, JR Becker, and Belle Werner earned a gold rating and will be advancing to district competition on March 9th at Waukon High SchoolAmanda Schnor, Chapter ReporterOn February 21st, Benton Community FFA members gathered at Hawkeye Community College as thirty-three passionate members showcased what they have spent weeks preparing.

By Co-Reporter, Juliana LuisTuesday, January 30th was a spectacular day for Vinton-Shellsburg FFA seniors. Jerry Lee, Matthew Bookmeier, Kevin Heckmann, Laura Manning, Kelcie Appleby, and Grayce McClintock traveled to Des Moines to visit the capitol building.

The Wesley United Methodist Church's Mobile Food Pantry had several helping hands (and feet) from Vinton-Shellsburg Community School's Scouts this past weekend.

Local farmer, Lance Lillibridge of Vinton, has taken several paths during his life. The latest is to run for elected office as a Benton County Supervisor.

KCRG takes applications for their "9 Who Care" awards each year. And among the winners this year is Vinton's Phil Borleske. With 51 applicants, KCRG came to honor Phil with an interview on January 8th.

Iowa Capital DispatchMost of the priority bills proposed by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and Republican legislators made it through the first major deadline for the 2024 legislative session.

The Meyer family of Shellsburg has lost everything in the fire that completely destroyed their home in Shellburg at about 4:00 a.m. on Saturday morning.

The Iowa Public Information Board met on Thursday, to address complaints filed by Benton County residents. The board deals with complaints concerning Iowa law specifically those dealing with Chapters 21 and 22 which address Open and Closed Sessions for public officials.

By: Co-Reporter Izzie Birker  The Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter recently held its annual Spaghetti Dinner event in the high school commons during a home basketball game on Tuesday, February 6th.

Benton County Veterans Affairs is now accepting applications for the position of Director.  Current Director, Cara Martin has served just under three years in the county position.