News
Benton Community School Student posting results in removal from school property
On February 28th, 2022 the Benton County Sheriff’s Office would investigate a report of a suspicious social media posting. The posting would include a photo of a subject holding a firearm. The photo was taken in the home of a Benton Community High School Student, outside of school hours.Benton Community School District would work closely with the Sheriff’s office to ensure the safety of the public, students, and staff.
AMVETS provide a bear hug when it's needed
The local AMVETS presented Care Bears to the local Abbe Center Office in Vinton. The bears are donated to places like the Abbe Center who might need the bears to entertain children who might be waiting for a session to finish up. But sometimes the bears just need to be hugged during sessions, so the bears are available to children as a companion and a take home buddy. Former Union Middle School Science Teacher License Suspended
Former Union Community School District science middle school teacher and coach, Mark Hookham, has had his teaching license suspended or revoked for a minimum of five years following a misconduct investigation, according to the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. Notes from the board refer to section 25.3(1)(e)(4) of the Iowa Standards of Professional Conduct and Ethics.
Three Area Students Place in Local American Legion Flag Essay Contest
Each year, the American Legion holds an essay writing contest for the 5th Graders in the community. Area students write an essay about what the flag means to them.The American Legion George G. Luckey Post #57, had two winners in the competition. In 1st place, was Noah Hesson, and 3rd place was awarded to Mackenna Ritscher.The Newhall Legion Post #167 had a 2nd place winner, Brooklyn KirkHesson also placed 1st as the Benton County American Legion Winner and 1st Place as the 3rd District Post 67 Winner. Kiwanis Present Vinton-Shellsburg 3rd Grade Students with Dictionaries
When you think of the Kiwanis in Vinton, you might think of the park. Or the Easter egg hunt. Or the pancake breakfast. Or you might remember Santa visiting special students in the school district. Or you might think of the Bike Rodeo. Or you might think of the scholarships awarded to seniors. If you are in 2nd grade you might be thinking that next year YOU get a dictionary! Area Kiwanis Kim Meyer and Lexa Spiedel presented students in the 3rd grade with their very own dictionaries. West Entrance Closed at Vinton Public Library
FEBRUARY 25-MARCH 4 : The west entrance at Vinton Public Library will be closed for construction. Please use the north entrance. Thank you for your patience and understanding! Corporal Jonathan Healzer USMC receives Quilt of Valor
Corporal Jonathan Healzer, U.S. Marine veteran was presented with a Quilt of Valor for his service in Iraq and Afghanistan. The VFW Post #8884 hosted the Healzer family along with one of the largest groups of friends and family for a presentation so far.Healzer served from 2001-2005 during the initial Invasion Operation OIF in Iraq, OEF in Afghanistan and during the Battle of Nasiriyah. Viet faces Five Charges following October Accident on Highway 30
Julie Ann Viet, 43 of Solon, is facing several charges following a traffic accident on October 23, 2021. Viet has been charged with Serious Injury by Vehicle, Operating while under the Influence, and three counts of child endangerment causing bodily injury.The three-vehicle crash occurred at about 8:30 p.m in Benton County on Highway 30 near Atkins at 32nd Ave.
Vinton-Shellsburg FFA holds Pre-Review Night
By: Co-Reporter, Grace Schminke On Friday, February 11th, the Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter held their Pre-Review Night in preparation for Sub-Districts on Wednesday, February 23rd. The chapter has worked very hard this year for their competitions. Advisor Gabby Power contacted several community members to come and help the chapter become even more successful in all of their competitions. Legislative Symposium
By: Isabel Mullinex, Co-ReporterOn Tuesday, February 1st, the Vinton-Shellsburg FFA chapter officer team attended the annual FFA Legislative Symposium at the capitol building in Des Moines. This is an event that about 5% of Iowa’s FFA members historically attend.The team started the day with a meeting with Iowa FFA State Officers to set expectations for the day.