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News Headlines

Gov. Kim Reynolds signs ban on handheld cellphone use while driving

By Robin OpsahlIowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed into law Wednesday a measure banning drivers from using cellphones behind the wheel outside of hands-free or voice-activated modes.Reynolds was joined by more than 50 people in her office Wednesday, many of whom were related to people who had died because of distracted driving. The governor recognized the names of many of the people who lost their lives due to distracted driving incidents before signing the measure into law.

Tractors Take Over Vinton-Shellsburg for Annual FFA Event

Article Thumbnail. A group of FFA members walking to Tootsies to “fuel up”.
By: Co-Reporter Sophia Newton The Vinton-Shellsburg FFA chapter hosted their annual Drive Your Tractor to School Day on Wednesday, March 26th, and it was a hit among the high schoolers. 15 tractors were driven to school, filling the parking lot with everything from vintage to modern models. The event sparked excitement and pride among students, showcasing their love for farming and agriculture.
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50th Anniversary of Leaving Vietnam event for Veterans April 30

Benton County Veterans Affairs is hosting a dinner commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Leaving Vietnam. Join us at the Vinton Skate Center from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. We will have a guest Chaplain opening the event followed by a guest speaker and dinner.This special event is for veterans and their spouses. Registration is not required.

Accident on Saturday: Bug 1, Minivan 0

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Early Saturday afternoon, an insect was the cause of an accident on 4th St. A minivan driven by a juvenile was trying to shoo the bug out of the window while approaching the 4th St. Bridge near the 700 block. A passenger was also in the van, fortunately, both were wearing their seat belts when the accident happened. The two only had minimal injuries.

VFW Auxiliary Post #2440 Presents Essay Awards to 3rd & 4th Graders

Article Thumbnail. Joten Lorenzen placed 1st in the 3rd Grade, 1st in District 2 and 6th at the State level of competition,
The VFW Auxiliary Post #2440, a combination of Benton and Buchanan County Posts, presented awards to area students. The essay awards were presented last week at Tilford Elementary and Shellsburg winners this week. The top 15 essay contest writers were presented with a medal and a laminated copy of their essay to take home with them. The Vinton-Shellsburg District had a total of 336 essay entries in grades 3-5.
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Grow a Salsa Garden in your backyard

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Phil Shaff a Master Gardener will be at the Vinton Depot on Monday, April 7th at 6:30 p.m. for this FREE Event!He will be talking about how to select the right plants to how to harvest fresh ingredients. and covering everything you need to know to enjoy homemade salsa all season long!The Depot is located at 612 2nd Ave. in Vinton. 

The Matchsellers Return to Garrison April 13

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The Matchsellers are a rollicking American Stringband from Kansas City. Join us for a Sunday afternoon of lively bluegrass, old-time music and storytelling from a truly unique band! Their shows are a lot of fun! Click here for video of the group that you can enjoy!“…a twisted sense of lyrical humor paired with energetic Americana music” – Norman Transcript, OklahomaRefreshments will be provided by Garrison Library for a donation.

DuCharme sentenced to Probation

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Nearly 40 people filled half of the courtroom for the sentencing of Robert "Bob" Ducharme. DuCharme was arrested last March 5, 2024, on a total of 10 charges: Ducharme, 61, a Vinton resident and former owner of Tactical Creations. made an Alford Plea* in the case. Sentencing was before Judge Mark Fisher on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.
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Benton County Farm Bureau Donates to CPU FFA Greenhouse

Article Thumbnail. Michael Hopper, Benton County Farm Bureau President, handing off a donation check to Gina Edler.
Benton County Farm Bureau is proud to announce their $6,000 donation to the Center Point – Urbana FFA Alumni and Supporters to aid their Greenhouse Campaign. This donation supports the growth of agricultural education in Iowa as well as showing others that it’s possible to achieve a goal in such a short amount of time. This greenhouse will offer numerous benefits that will enhance students’ educational experiences and broaden the school’s impact on the community.

VGH Announces Appointment of Tina M. Eden as Chief Executive Officer

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Virginia Gay Hospital is pleased to announce the appointment of Tina M. Eden as its new Chief Executive Officer. With over three decades of dedicated service to Virginia Gay Hospital, Eden brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a deep commitment to community healthcare.Eden has been serving as Interim Co-Chief Executive Officer since August 2024 while continuing her role as Chief Nursing Officer (CNO).
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