News Headlines

By: Co-Reporter, Bri DulinOn April 17th, 2026, The Vinton-Shellsburg FFA chapter hosted their annual April Meeting alongside Officer Elections. Prior to the meeting vote, the officer candidates filled out an application, received character references and conducted adult panel and student nominating committee interviews. The 2026-2027 Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Officer Team is: Ciara Dods (President), Levi Lutz (Vice-President), Zoey McClintock (Secretary), Cole Birker (Treasurer), Abby McKenna and Raine Wheeler (Co-Reporters), Ali Lutz (Sentinel), and Madeline Pingenot (Officer-at-Large).

The Union Pacific will be bringing Big Boy No. 4014 through Benton County as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration. The world’s largest operating steam locomotive will pass through on its coast-to-coast tour.There were a total of 25 Big Boys built during World War II, but only eight survived, and No. 4014 is the only one still running.

The Vinton Community Foundation Board of Directors has announced the distribution of $51,575.13 in grants to the following non-profit organizations serving the City of Vinton.Local Option Sales Tax Fund & Vinton Community Foundation General Fund - $51,575.13.Vinton Shellsburg Community School District Sundown Mountain Ski Resort day for 5th grad

When longtime community blood drive leader Erlene McKenna passed away in 2010, there was an immediate need for someone to step forward and continue the important work. Newly retired Vinton-Shellsburg elementary teacher Kristie Davis didn’t hesitate.“I can do that!” she said.Davis had just retired from teaching and quickly stepped into the volunteer role, organizing the local blood drive and gathering friends to help make it a success.

It is almost that time of year again when rhubarb will be ready to harvest, and we’re reaching out for donations!This year, we are collecting fresh rhubarb for both the Vinton and Belle Plaine meal sites. Your donations help us provide delicious, home-cooked meals to members of our community, and rhubarb is always a seasonal favorite.If you have extra rhubarb to share, we would greatly appreciate your contribution.

iVinton, is a service built for Vinton, by Vinton. Sign up now to enjoy this 100% fiber internet service with 3 months FREE - PLUS - FREE installation!We provide:-Speeds from 250 Mbps (Megabytes per second) to 10 Gbps (Gigabytes per second)- New Top-of-the-Line Equipment- Advanced WiFi 6G Technology- Reliable Fiber ConnectivityAs part of this pr

The Center-Point Urbana FFA Chapter had a phenomenal turnout at the Iowa State FFA Convention this past week. With incredible participation in LDEs, CDEs, and the state choir, the chapter's presence was strong in Ames. To begin, three events competed in LDEs and achieved high levels of success. The Conduct of Meeting team, consisting of Kolten McLaughlin, Brynne Hite, Tabitha Letts, Sophia Blackwell, Audrey Seiler, Emily Cue, and Kyla Russler, received a silver rating.

Plans are already in the works for this year's Party in the Park weekend here in Vinton! This year the event will be held over three days - Thursday, July 16, through Saturday, July 18, 2026. There is still time to donate and support this exciting event if you feel so inclined. It’s your donation that’s at the heart of this three-day event.

By: Co-Reporter, Bri DulinApril 19th to 21st, 2026, The Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter proudly attended the State Leadership conference. A total of 35 members were given the opportunity to attend leadership workshops, career exploration shows, business sessions, and compete in various competitions. Members also had the honor of taking stage to be recognized with multiple awards, highlighting their dedication and success.

Scott Wirth, director at the Vinton Parks and Rec Department, shared plans for the department with the local Kiwanis. Broc Shaw kicked off the presentation, sharing that he had just finished classes at Kirkwood with a degree in Horticulture. He had joined the team while finishing up and was grateful for the flexibility. Before starting with VPRD he'd worked in Center Point and Cedar Rapids where he gained a little bit of experience in the field.