News
Fair begins with normal schedule despite storm problems
Just like they do every Wednesday of the Benton County Fair, hundreds of 4-H members from all over Benton County brought their projects for the judges to evaluate.
And despite the damage to the fairgrounds and the lack of electricity in the 4-H Building, the judging continues as usual. In fact, the entire Fair schedule remains intact, said Susan Meyer. How to handle the storm and power outage safely
Nancy Farmer looked with alarm at a generator burning gasoline next to an open window.
The Benton County Public Health Director said carbon monoxide poisoning is often one of the biggest health risks during power outages such as the one currently affecting Vinton residents and some people in Garrison.
Total recovery from storm will take decades
Connie Ogier's arboretum.
Jon Clingman's yard full of century-old trees.
Marty Blind's Orchards.
The casualties of Monday's storm include more than houses and cars. Some of the things lost were the product of years, or decades of work by area residents. Message from City of Vinton to Property Owners in Response to Wind Storm:
Tree Debris: If you are able, please take all tree debris to the dump areas north of town. Small braches can go to the brush dump. Larger pieces that can be reused in stoves and fireplaces should be taken to the old dump site, which is the first right turn north of the bridge. If you are unable to remove the debris yourself, place the debris on the curbside and it will be picked up by city or state crews.
Recovery continues for third day
Wednesday morning saw storm recovery continue, both with the obvious damage and challenges and some not-so-obvious issues and problems.
While linemen continued dealing with the damage to utility poles and wires overhead, a Qwest technician was dealing with an unseen problem: Some uprooted trees also uprooted phone cables. The 411 on 211: Those needing volunteers, or wanting to help, should dial 211
The Benton County Emergency Management Agency is asking residents who either need volunteers to help clean up storm debris or want to volunteer to help others to call the United Way’s 211 information line. Most land lines and some cell phone services offer the direct 211 dialing for the United Way. Otherwise callers can dial 319-739-4211 or toll-free at 1-866-469-2211.
REC Crews Make Progress in Restoring Power
With 60 line personnel in the field, 40 from neighboring
cooperatives and contractors, East-Central Iowa Rural Electric Cooperative made major progress yesterday in restoring power to its members. Power was restored to approximately 500 services yesterday; 400 remained without power as of 7:00 this morning.
According to Steve Marlow, Manager of Operations and Engineering, “Power should be restored to most of our members today.
Car Wash
The Faith Baptist Church youth group held a free car wash this past Saturday at the Farmers Savings Bank and Trust. They accepted donations, the proceeds from this fundraiser went toward teen summer activities and camp.
Outdoor haircuts raise $800 for Nature Center
Tammy Fett and other Vinton hair stylists teamed up in a unique effort to raise money for the new Benton County Nature Center, raising $800 with an outdoor hair cutting event at Riverside Park.
For a donation of $10, clients could get a haircut. Many were already lined up at 11 a.m. when the event began. Area Photos by Heidi Jones
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Thanks Heidi!