House votes to ban eminent domain for CO2 pipelines

IOWA CAPITAL DISPATCH
March 31, 2025 1:20 pm

By Kami CoonsThe Iowa House approved a bill Wednesday that would stop pipelines carrying liquified carbon dioxide from using eminent domain. Six other bills related to carbon sequestration pipelines, eminent domain and the Iowa Utilities Commission were combined into one bill, which also advanced.

This is only a drill, until it's not

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
March 28, 2025 1:35 pm

On Friday morning, students at the Vinton-Shellsburg High School were tested on their fire drill response, and they performed perfectly!Just before noon, they were tested again, but this time it was a real life situation.

DuCharme sentenced to Probation

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
March 28, 2025 1:14 pm

Nearly 40 people filled half of the courtroom for the sentencing of Robert "Bob" Ducharme. DuCharme was arrested last March 5, 2024, on a total of 10 charges: Ducharme, 61, a Vinton resident and former owner of Tactical Creations.

Senators vote to protect Iowans' ‘basic human right' to garden

IOWA CAPITAL DISPATCH
March 28, 2025 10:36 am

By Cami KoonsA bill advanced from the Iowa Senate floor Monday that would protect home gardens from state and local ordinances.Sen. Cherielynn Westrich, R-Ottumwa, said the bill hits at a “growing concern” that home gardeners are blocked from growing their own vegetables and food on their properties.

Benton County Farm Bureau Donates to CPU FFA Greenhouse

CPU FFA
March 27, 2025 12:10 pm

Benton County Farm Bureau is proud to announce their $6,000 donation to the Center Point — Urbana FFA Alumni and Supporters to aid their Greenhouse Campaign.

VGH Announces Appointment of Tina M. Eden as Chief Executive Officer

VIRGINIA GAY HOSPITAL
March 27, 2025 12:09 pm

Virginia Gay Hospital is pleased to announce the appointment of Tina M. Eden as its new Chief Executive Officer. With over three decades of dedicated service to Virginia Gay Hospital, Eden brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a deep commitment to community healthcare.

Bill banning handheld cellphone use while driving heads to governor's desk

IOWA CAPITAL DISPATCH
March 27, 2025 12:09 pm

By Robin OpsahlAfter years of failed starts, the Iowa Legislature has finally sent legislation banning the handheld use of cellphones while driving to Gov.

Vinton Shellsburg April Menu

VINTON SHELLSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
March 27, 2025 12:09 pm

Severe Weather Spotter Training Seminar Thursday, March 27

BENTON COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
March 26, 2025 4:44 pm

On Thursday, March w7, 2025, the public is invited to a seminar that will last approximately 2 hours. All emergency services, law enforcement, school personnel, public works, Benton County EMA Spotters and anyone interested in learning about severe weather is encouraged to attend.

Vinton-Shellsburg Difference Maker: Amber Pattee

VINTON SHELLSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
March 26, 2025 4:43 pm

3.  We are proud to recognize  Amber Pattee  as this month’s  Vinton-Shellsburg Difference Maker! Amber has been named  District Coach of the Year  by the  Iowa Girls Coaches Association (IGCA)—a prestigious honor voted on by her coaching peers.