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News
Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Members Shine at the 2025 Benton County Fair
By: Co-Reporter, Abby McKennaThe Benton County Fair was a fun and rewarding week for the Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter as members took part in hands-on agricultural education, livestock exhibitions, and community service.One of the highlights of the fair was the FFA Learning Barn, where FFA members helped teach hundreds of kids and families about agriculture. Benton County Whitetails Unlimited make Donation to Hannen Lake Sidewalk Project
We’re thrilled to announce that an accessible sidewalk has been installed
at the Hannen Lake Park beach! This project is a big step toward making
our parks more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
It all started with a generous $3,000 donation from Amy Williams, who
hoped to see more accessibility at the lake. With additional support from
our Benton County Conservation Foundation (BCCF) Hannen Lake Chili
Cook-Off, t-shirt fundraiser, dinner fundraiser, & Benton County
Conservation (BCC) funds—we were close.
Severe Thunderstorm Risk Increased Tonight July 28, 2025
A well-organized storm complex is expected to impact the area
tonight into very early Tuesday morning.
● This line of storms is likely to be severe in at least portions of
eastern Iowa, but confidence remains low on specific timing and
duration of severe.
○ Widespread damaging wind possible, some could be
significant (75+ mph), in / near the level 3 of 5 risk area
● Very humid through Tuesday with peak heat indices 95 - 105°
through early evening, with Tuesday’s heat less certain.
ETE Demographic Survey
ETE Demographic Survey
PLEASE NOTE DUE TO TECHNICAL
DIFFICULTIES, RESPONSES THROUGH JULY 20TH
WERE NOT RECORDED. PLEASE CONSIDER
COMPLETING THE SURVEY AGAIN.
All Hazards Evacuation Planning Survey
Starting in July, residents living in Linn and Benton Counties are asked to participate in an
important all-hazards evacuation planning survey. V-S FFA President Will McKenna Attends Washington D.C. Leadership Conference
By: Co-Reporter, Abby McKennaFrom July 8th to 12th, Vinton-Shellsburg FFA member Will McKenna traveled to our nation's capital to attend the Washington Leadership Conference (WLC), an intensive leadership experience hosted by the National FFA Organization. WLC brings together FFA members from across the country for a week of workshops, community service, and reflection focused on personal growth, leadership development, and making a difference in the world.
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Notice: Rules/Camping/Rental Policies
NOTICEThe Benton County Conservation Board Approved Rules and Regulations on July 14, 2025. Complete Rules and Regulations can be found on the county's website: https://www.bentoncountyia.gov/conservation/rulesandpolicies/ or by contacting a staff member for a copy.
World Day Against Trafficking July 30
Human trafficking is a heartbreaking reality, and one that demands our attention every day, not just once a year. On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on Wednesday July 30, 2025, we reaffirm our office’s commitment to raising awareness and empowering Iowans to help put an end to this crime. Through our Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking (IBAT) program, we’re working to build a statewide network of businesses that are informed, equipped, and ready to be part of the solution. 10 New Laws that went into effect July 1
By Tom FoleyIowa drivers will be more likely to get pulled over after July 1 if they are behind the wheel with their cellphones in their hands. This new law is one of many passed by the Iowa Legislature during the 2025 session set to go into effect at the beginning of July.Senate File 22 bans the use of cellphones and electronic devices when not in voice activated or hands-free mode while operating a vehicle.
New Law Increasing Penalties for Assaulting Law Officers into Effect July 1
The new Iowa law that increases penalties for assaults against law enforcement officers and first responders goes into effect today, July 1, 2025. The law was Attorney General Brenna Bird’s legislative priority this past session. “Starting today, Iowa’s law works harder to protect our law enforcement heroes who daily put on their badge and risk their lives to keep us safe,” said Attorney General Bird.
Iowa DOT Online Auction, through August 3
Don't miss your chance to bid on snowplow trucks, tractors, mowers, skid loaders, welder's plasma cutters, and shop equipment. The Iowa DOT online auction will run through Sunday, August 3. Please check the website often for more auction items.To participate in bidding, you must register for a GovDeals account. View our auction items here.
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