Iowa Pork Producers enlists Belle Plaine native to lead Consumer Outreach

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
April 10, 2026 12:34 pm

The Iowa Pork Producers Association has appointed Hope Brecht, who grew up in Belle Plaine, as its new Consumer Outreach Director, reinforcing its focus on communication and consumer engagement.

Roads are Optional

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
April 10, 2026 8:57 am

Thursday morning found this driver "taking the scenic route" literally. The accident happened just a few miles down the Mt. Auburn blacktop Crews were on site at approximately 7:00 a.

Successful District Convention Highlights Leadership, Awards, State Qualifiers

FFA
April 9, 2026 12:34 pm

Pictured:Front row; Will McKenna, Levi Lutz, Ali Lutz, Abby McKenna, Jenna Grovert, Nora Grovert, and Madeline Pingenot.Second row; Andrew Allsup, Jackson Lloyd, Bridgette Castle, Bri Dulin, Kenzie Rhinehart, Zane Helter, Jameson Demuth, and Cole Birker.

Siren to be tested tomorrow, Thursday April 9

CITY OF VINTON
April 8, 2026 1:52 pm

After a minor repair, the outdoor warning siren on the west side of Vinton ( N Ave & W 4th St.) will be tested at 8:45 a.m. on Thursday, April 9th.

Atkins Roundhouse Update

BENTON COUNTY CONSERVATION
April 8, 2026 11:45 am

By Cara Harrill, Conservation TechnicianThe Atkins Roundhouse area is an 85 acre property on the northeast side of Atkins. Once a historic train roundhouse, this is now a public area where users go to relax, walk trails, and enjoy nature.

Dooley Candidate for U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
April 7, 2026 7:42 pm

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes and honors distinguished graduating high school seniors. The program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors.

10th Annual Faith in Action accepting Nominations

BLESSED HOPE COMMUNITY CHURCH
April 7, 2026 7:24 pm

Blessed Hope Community Church is preparing for our 10th Annual Faith in Action event! On June 4-6, we will be offering free labor services to complete projects in our community for those who could use some assistance - no strings attached.

One Fatality Reported on Highway 30

ATKINS FIRE DEPARTMENT
April 7, 2026 7:13 pm

Updated: The Atkins Fire Department put out a news release concerning an accident on Highway 30 on Monday. It reads as follows: On Monday, April 6 at 6:20 p.

Shellsburg Area Community Endowment Fund Informational Meeting April 13, 6:00 pm

SHELLSBURG AREA COMMUNITY GROUP
April 7, 2026 11:58 am

In 2023 an endowment fund for the  community of Shellsburg was initiated by the  Shellsburg Area Community Group.   Endowment funds create a perpetual  source of income so just imagine the  potential this  fund creates for the community.

Kiwanis provide Easter fun at Kiwanis Park

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
April 7, 2026 10:22 am

The weather played a nasty Easter weekend trick on all of the Easter bunnies in the area. Following a night of pouring rain, the morning greeted us at a nippy 38 degrees.