News : Basketball/weather update: School closed but VPRD busses to leave as scheduled

Light snow covers the windows of cars parked in Des Moines this morning, where perhaps a half-inch has fallen overnight -- much less than the snowfall in Benton County and other areas in the northeast quadrant of Iowa.

While snow has canceled schools and the planned VS pep busses for today, the Vinton Parks and Recreation busses were still on regular schedules.

"I have spoken with the charter bus company, Windstar Lines, Inc., and they plan to run irregardless of weather. The only instance in which they would not run is in the unlikely scenario that the roads are closed," said Brad Barker of the VPRD.

The Vinton-Shellsburg Vikings arrived in Des Moines early Monday afternoon. They held a practice session in Bondurant before eating dinner together going as spectators to watch the Class 2A State Basketball games on Monday evening. The players and coaches plan morning film and shoot-around sessions for this morning before going to the Wells Fargo Arena for their 3:45 game vs. Harlan.

While most schools in eastern Iowa canceled classes, the Des Moines area is under a winter weather advisory until noon today. Most snow was expected to leave the area by mid-morning.

VS statement

The VS schools released the following statement regarding the weather:

Due to the weather forecast, the district will not offer pep busses for Tuesday’s game. Refunds will be issued on Wednesday or applied towards busses on Thursday if our team wins on Tuesday.

The City Rec Department is working on lining up another charter bus for high school students. Contact them (472-4164) for sign-up, costs, and other information.

Weather conditions will not be favorable for driving. Anyone who drives should prepare for emergency conditions by driving carefully and packing an emergency kit.

Our fans have supported the team all season. It is unfortunate the weather will prevent everyone from attending the game on Tuesday.