News

Deck the House Voting is now open through December 18

Bundle up, grab your loved ones, and check out Vinton's finest light displays! While you're at it, might as well vote for your favorite! Ballots are available at www.vprdzone.com and at the Vinton Recreation Center! (Just click the link to download and print!)

Tilford Elementary Principal Kyle Reeve Submits Resignation

Tilford Elementary Principal Kyle Reeve has submitted his resignation to address personal health matters. Mr. Reeve’s resignation is effective immediately. The Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District, along with Mr. Reeve and the Reeve family, appreciate your understanding and respect for their privacy.Mr. Reeve took over the principalship at Tilford Elementary school during the pandemic of 2020.

Seed House disrepair puts building at risk

Photos show the failing masonry on the west wall weakening the steel supports which hold the roof At Thursday's City Council meeting, the council conducted a hearing for a nuisance violation at 201 1st Avenue, known as the former Seed House. The property is owned by Joseph and Peggy Schott of Hiawatha.City Building Inspector/Code Enforcement officer Blake Hansen said that there were several issues with the building. Two other inspections by structural engineers also confirmed the conditions of the building.

Decking out the House brought to a new level in Vinton

I might be wrong, but it feels like this year the Christmas lights have been plentiful across Vinton. Adding a new level of fun is the display at 1307 B Ave. in Vinton, it is one of the displays that you really need to see to appreciate. The kids will love this one! In addition to a singing Christmas tree, and flashing mini trees, there are also now two Christmas bulbs that occasionally pop up to sing lead in some of the songs.

Santa drops off another round of gift tags for Angel Tree

Vinton Today just had a note from one of Santa's elves. A new delivery of gift tags for the Angel Tree program have been delivered to Farmers Savings Bank and Trust and US Bank.If you have the opportunity to shop for an area child, stop by and choose a gift tag from the tree. Gifts need to be returned with their tag by December 14. If anyone has access to an empty building that Angel Tree can use for gift distribution, please contact Lanette Parker at 319-521-1496.

Iowans should never provide their EBT Card number or PIN to others

The Iowa Attorney General’s office and the Iowa    Department of Health and Human Services warn Iowans to be on the lookout for spam text messages regarding EBT Departcards. EBT cards are used to distribute government benefits like food assistance, known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or food stamps.    Both agencies have recently received reports from Iowans of text messages that indicate their EBT cards are locked.

Benton Community Schools asks residents in the district for $48.5 Million

The Benton Community School District is seeking the approval of voters in the district to pass a 48.5 million dollar referendum. Property owners would be taxed at $4.04 for each $1,000 of the value of their property. For every $100,000 or assessed value, $405 would be added to the property taxes each year. This amount is in addition to approximately $10 million in sales tax revenue to cover the balance according to the school's website.

Benton County 40-8

Roger Uthoff (Commissaire Intendent) and Alan Woodhouse (Chef-De-Gare) present Tony Islas (Assistant Principal) with gift cards for the Backpack Program 40-8 is an independent , by invitation, honor organization of male and female, US veterans.The 40-8 is committed to charitable and patriotic aims. Our purpose is to uphold and defend the United States Constitution, to promote the well-being of veterans and their widows and orphans, and to actively participate in selected charities, and endeavors, which include programs that promote child welfare and nurse training.

Would you like to give a gift of food to the food insecure?

The Wesley Methodist Church food pantry has 107 registered households, sometimes serving 127 people a month. Last month the church served over 200 people! If you can help the pantry, they accept monetary or food donations by the case. Maybe you, your family, your group of friends, or your church  would like to donate for the upcoming holiday season.

Highway 150 Urbana Roundabout is Now Open!

The roundabout on Highway 150, at the Urbana corner is now open for business!Be cautious as you approach the corner, the speed limit is 20 mph on the roundabout. There are four exits off of the roundabout. There are exits for 31st Avenue, Urbana and of course Highway 150 North (to Independence) and Highway 150 South (to Vinton).Use caution as you approach the corner, as of Monday afternoon there were still workers in the area.