News
Iowa schools eligible for $1,000 match on local food purchases
By Cami KoonsThe Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship launched a $70,000 pilot program Monday to help schools purchase local meat, poultry, produce, dairy, eggs or honey through the Choose Iowa program. Schools are eligible for a dollar for dollar match up to $1,000 per building, which means up to $2,000, per participant will go to local food producers.
VIRGINIA GAY HOSPITAL RECEIVES EXCELLENCE IN HEALTHCARE AWARD

IRFA’s Drive Clean Campaign Offering After-Prom Prizes
Young Drivers: Drive Safe and Drive Clean on Prom NightIowa Renewable Fuels Association’s (IRFA) Drive Clean campaign wants to support young drivers on Prom night! The campaign, which educates young adults on making clean fuel choices, has gift packages available for donation to Iowa High School After-Prom events. “We want to build confidence in young drivers on choosing what fuel to use at the pump, while also encouraging them to drive safe on Prom night,” said IRFA Marketing Director Lisa Coffelt.
Secretary Naig Invites Applications for Century and Heritage Farm Recognition
Applications for recognition at 2025 Iowa State Fair will be accepted through June 1 Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig invites eligible Iowa farm owners to apply for Century or Heritage Farm recognition as part of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s (IDALS) Century and Heritage Farm Program. The program was created by the Department and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation to honor families who have owned their farms for 100 years and 150 years, respectively.
From Vinton Band Student to the World Stage

VGH Clinics - Phone issues March 11, 2025

Georgia man charged in Check Cashing Scheme

Iowa Notary Training, Friday, March 28
Join us Friday, March 28, 2025, for Iowa Notary Training at The Legacy Center at Murdoch-Linwood (520 Wilson Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404). Multiple time slots will be available throughout the day, with a capacity of 100 participants per session. If you're interested in hosting a notary training at your facility, email notaryconference@sos.
Kirkwood’s Benton County Leadership Council to Meet May 15
Meeting to focus on college’s workforce and training efforts in Benton County Kirkwood Community College will hold the next meeting of the institution’s Benton County Leadership Council on May 15, from 1-2:30 p.m., at Kirkwood's Benton County Center in Vinton. Kirkwood President Kristie Fisher, college officials, local community leaders and members of the general public are all expected to be in attendance.
Fishing News for Northeast Iowa
NORTHEASTCedar River (above Nashua)Backwaters still have some ice, but main channel has little ice, especially weak around the edges. Use caution. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a minnow in backwater areas with no current. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small jig tipped with a waxworm under a bobber a few inches off the bottom.