News Headlines

Thank You to Simulation in Motion–IA (SIM-IA)

VIRGINIA GAY HOSPITAL - July 3rd, 2025 10:18 pm

Virginia Gay Hospital extends a sincere thank you to Simulation in Motion–IA (SIM-IA) for providing valuable, hands-on training to our clinic staff this week. Their team led us through two high-acuity trauma scenarios—realistic situations that could easily arise during these hot summer months.SIM-IA is a unique program designed to deliver high-quality simulated clinical learning directly to communities across Iowa.

Community Volunteers Serve Up Smiles – Rain or Shine!

VIRGINIA GAY HOSPITAL - July 2nd, 2025 6:51 pm

]Despite the rainy weather, the June 26th food box distribution event was a huge success — thanks to our amazing volunteers (VGH Staff, Van Horne Lions Club, Vinton-Shellsburg School and Staff, Benton Community School and Staff) and community support. A total of 307 kids received food boxes, ensuring families had access to nutritious meals and support when it mattered most.

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Things to do on the 4th of July

VINTON TODAY - July 2nd, 2025 6:50 pm

If you are looking for some fun things to do on the 4th of July, don't forget to take the kids to enjoy the splash pad at Kiwanis Park, or enjoy some play time at Riverside Park, then swing by BL Anderson to check out the new look there! Grab a patriotic book at the library today to enjoy over the weekend!If you prefer a road trip this weekend, here are some activities around the state that you can enjoy over the fourth.

FIREWORKS ORDINANCES AND REPORTING VIOLATIONS

VINTON POLICE DEPARTMENT - July 2nd, 2025 6:46 pm

Due to changes in state law, there are now permitted times and locations for shooting off fireworks within the city limits of Vinton. Residents will not be in violation of the revised fireworks laws (Code of Iowa, Sec. 727.2) if they use their fireworks legally and responsibly during the following times.Permitted Fireworks Times (On Private Property Only) July 3, 2025 9 a.

Touch a Truck has Tremendous Tuesday Turnout

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR - July 2nd, 2025 10:17 am

Article Thumbnail. This little guy thought this car should go home with him!

The Vinton Public Library knocked it out of the park when hosting the "Touch a Truck" event on Tuesday morning. Children were able to explore everything from a Camaro to a fire truck.Available to visit with the children were able to visit with the Vinton Police Department and the Vinton Fire Department, as well as those in the community who brought their vehicles to be explored by wide eyed children.

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Craft Squad for Kids!

VINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY - July 1st, 2025 12:11 pm

Hey kids! Level up your crafting skills! Stop by the Vinton Public Library any time between 12-4:00 p.m. and make a craft!Tuesday, July 8th: Perler BeadsTuesday, July 15th: Design Your Own GameTuesday, July 22nd: Foil ArtTuesday, July 29th: Suncatcher

State of Iowa Launches New Behavioral Health and Disability Services Systems

IOWA HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - July 1st, 2025 11:59 am

Today, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launches its newly designed Behavioral Health and Disability Services Systems. Now Iowans, no matter where in the state they live, can access the same sets of mental health, substance use, problem gambling, and disability support services.Behavioral Health Service SystemBeginning today, Iowans without insurance—or with limited coverage—can access care through the new Behavioral Health Service System.

Gov. Reynolds issues Executive Order 13 condemning antisemitism

IOWA GOVERNOR'S OFFICE - July 1st, 2025 11:47 am

Governor Reynolds signed Executive Order 13 on Friday, June 27, 2025, reiterating Iowa’s longstanding support for Israel and the Jewish community, and condemning any form of threat, harassment, intimidation, hate speech, or other action that endangers the Jewish community or violates state or federal law. “Since the October 7th attacks, we’ve seen an increase in antisemitism across the U.

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Alana Fleming Crowned 2025 Benton County Fair Queen

BENTON COUNTY FAIR - July 1st, 2025 11:34 am

Article Thumbnail. Amanda Schnor Benton County Fair Princess and Alana Fleming, 2025 Benton County Fair Queen

This year the Benton County Fair awarded a new award to the Benton County Fair Queen Candidates. The award is entitiled the "Passion and Purpose Award." This was awarded to the candidate who the judges felt showed the most passion about Benton County. This award was given to Jaydn Weiser a 2025 Center Point-Urbana Graduate. The Miss Congeniality award was chosen by those in the Benton County Fair Queen contest and voted on among her peers.

Community Quilt Fundraiser at the Vinton Public Library

VINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY - June 30th, 2025 12:39 pm

Our library is holding a silent auction to raise funds for our adult programming. Thanks to the help of Cheryl and Donna, our quilt is now complete! Over a dozen local quilters submitted blocks and we are so pleased with the results. Thank you to volunteers Cheryl and Donna for helping to make our Community Quilt come to life!Bidding is open until July 16th at 6:30 pm.

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