News

By: Co-Reporter, Sophia NewtonThe Vinton Shellsburg FFA chapter recently enjoyed an unforgettable experience at the 97th National FFA Convention, held from October 22nd to 26th in Indianapolis. With 19 enthusiastic members in attendance, they traveled with neighbors from La Porte-Dysart FFA Chapter, on a journey that included exciting tours and meaningful community service activities.

In Benton County, registered voters in each party are broken down as follows:Libertarian 111Republican 6,695Democratic 3,993No Party 7,761Other 25The numbers below show how many of these in each category have voted early:Libertarian 9Republican 1,488Democratic 793No Party 638Other 1

This is just a reminder that due to Benton County reminds resident that there is a high fire danger because of the unseasonal warm weather and high winds. Attached in the photos is the information from the National Weather Service.

Justin Jensen, a representative from United States Senator Joni Ernst's office, stopped to award a certificate to Michelle and Michael Seibert of Tootsie's Ice Cream & More. Ernst, a ranking member of the Senate Small Business Committee, recognized the business as the Business of the Week in early September.Throughout this Congress, Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every county in each of Iowa's 99 counties.

Haunted houses, gobs of candy, costumes, and parties. Halloween, with its fun and spooky traditions is in full swing, and no celebration playlist is complete without “The Monster Mash.” This classic 1962 Bobby "Boris" Pickett tune features Frankenstein and his ghouls and zombies grooving to the graveyard smash.The same adrenalin pump and communal spirit that brings us together to kick up our heels can contribute to the aggressive driving behavior of tailgating.

Saturday morning started out with very nippy temperatures for the planned Halloween activities by the Vinton Parks and Recreation Department. By the time the Costume Parade kicked off, Mother Nature had pity on the little trick or treaters that made their trip through the downtown. Over 300 children went through the parade route collecting treats from the area businesses.

Iowa's State Auditor Rob Stand made a stop in Vinton to discuss his job as Auditor. Before beginning the meeting, he spotted an old friend that he had met while working with Americorp, Jimmy Kelly.  The two men had worked together making home repairs  while they were serving together in the corps. Sand spoke of the challenges he faces at the state level in his attempts to audit several of the state offices.

This week, Benton County Auditor Hayley Rippel made an appearance in Benton County with Iowa Congresswoman Ashley Hinson, The two discussed voting and the requirements and misconceptions surrounding elections.Here's the link to watch the live stream on Facebook

Vinton Unlimited, in conjunction with our local veteran organizations, is excited to kick off the holiday season with the 17th Annual Lighted Parade! Let’s make this the brightest year yet! Date: November 21st Time: 6 PM Location: Downtown Vinton Santa will be visiting all the way from the North Pole! (We kindly ask that no other Santas attend.) Theme: Christmas or Patriotic – let your creativity shine! Free hot cocoa will be served to keep you warm!This event is FREE, no registration is required, and everyone is welcome! Join us IN the parade or as a spectator.

Difference Maker Presentation4. We are proud to recognize Maddy Svoboda as a Positive Difference Maker in our school district. Maddy serves as our athletic trainer, offering invaluable support to both student-athletes and coaches. She has gone above and beyond her role by organizing response training with local emergency responders, ensuring that our teams are prepared for any situation.