News
Santa visits over breakfast with area children
Another year and another round of about 150 children stopped to have breakfast with Santa this year. Vinton Parks and Recreations Department, their elves and Santa Claus himself made a special day of it for area children. Following a delicious breakfast, children were able to crawl into Santa's sleigh and tell him exactly what they wanted for Christmas this year.
Holiday Lights Week #1 Winner
Holiday Lights Punch Card Week #1 winner is Loretta Simnacher! She received $50 in Vinton Value Dollars! Thanks for shopping local, Loretta!
Transition Alliance Program prepares students for life after graduation
At Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District, a new initiative is paving the way for all students to become future-ready, regardless of their post-high school plans. The district, in partnership with Benton Community Schools, has introduced the Transition Alliance Program (TAP), a forward-thinking effort aimed at equipping students with the skills and experiences they need to thrive in college, vocational training, or the workforce.
Snow and how to keep Vinton Safe
The Vinton Police Department kindly reminds all residents to move their vehicles off the streets as soon as possible to allow for efficient snow removal. If you are a renter, please get in touch with your landlord to find out where your designated off-street parking is located. Keeping the streets clear helps our hardworking public works team ensure safe and accessible roadways for everyone.
Arnold Motor Supply collecting toys for area children
Arnold Motor Supply is also collecting cash and/or toy donations to help out this Christmas season. Several families struggle at this time of the year, and this is one way the business can help to lend a hand. Toys or cash can be donated by December 16th by dropping it off at the business which is located at 207 W. 3rd St. in Vinton.
Koop's Sales & Service collects toys to brighten the Christmas of local children
The Christmas season is near! For the 11th year, Koop's Sales and Service is holding their annual toy drive! The business is collecting unwrapped games, and toys from now until December 13th. All toys collected will be distributed to local Benton County children. The business said, "Every year our drive gets bigger and with your help we reach more families.
Giving Tree to help area children available at Cedar Valley Bank & Trust
A giving tree to benefit area children has been set up and is ready at Cedar Valley Bank & Trust in Vinton. "Our giving tree is ready to spread some Christmas Magic! We welcome the community to stop in and spread a little cheer!" said Jenna Parmater. The gifts are due back by Friday, December 13, 2024.
Iowa officials sue federal government over voter citizenship information
By Robin OpsahlIowa Secretary of State Paul Pate and Attorney General Brenna Bird filed a lawsuit in federal court Tuesday accusing the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services of unlawfully withholding information about individuals registered to vote who were identified by the state as potential noncitizens.Two weeks before the 2024 general election, Pate issued guidance to county auditors to challenge the ballots of 2,176 registered voters identified by the office as potential noncitizens.
Vinton-Shellsburg High School FFA Members Enjoy Fun-Filled Lock-In
The Vinton-Shellsburg High School FFA chapter had a great time at their annual lock-in on Tuesday, November 26th. Forty-four members gathered at the high school for a night full of food, fun, and teamwork. The evening started with a Thanksgiving potluck, where everyone brought food to share. The meal created a warm, family-like atmosphere and gave members a chance to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
Baby Girl Declared Safe Haven in November
Through the Safe Haven Law, a baby girl, born November 11 is now in the care and custody of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and will be placed with a foster family until permanent placement is determined. This brings the overall total to 72 infants since the law went into effect more than two decades ago. This is the sixth case so far in 2024.