Big changes arrive July 1 for student borrowers, including in loan repayments

IOWA CAPITAL DISPATCH
May 11, 2026 3:59 pm

By:Shauneen MirandaThe federal student loan system is set to see a dramatic overhaul beginning this summer, and critics warn it likely will make loans more expensive and difficult to obtain for borrowers — driving them to private lenders or altering their plans for higher education.

Naig Announces Belle Plaine among First Round of Urban Water Quality Projects

IOWA SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE
May 11, 2026 2:56 pm

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s investment supports locally led water quality projects in communities across IowaIowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced the first-round of 2026 urban water quality projects, marking the start of a multi-phase investment that will bring new conservation practices to communities of all sizes across the state.

Say “Yes!” To Rounding Up At Fareway May 11th - 16th

SALVATION ARMY OF BENTON COUNTY
May 11, 2026 11:46 am

For the week of Monday, May 11th through Saturday, 16th you have the opportunity to support your local Salvation Army Service Extension Unit.Please say "Yes" to rounding up at the check-out at Fareway.

Virginia Gay Hospital & Clinics Celebrate 2026 DAISY Award Honorees and Nominees

VIRGINIA GAY HOSPITAL
May 11, 2026 9:10 am

Virginia Gay Hospital & Clinics proudly recognizes outstanding nursing professionals whose compassion, clinical excellence, and dedication make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and the communities we serve.

V-S Retirees and Award Winners to be recognized Wednesday, May 13, 2026

VINTON SHELLSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
May 10, 2026 12:40 pm

Vinton-Shellsburg retirees and award winners will be honored at a public open-house reception on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Vinton Skate Center.

Ms. Matese shares the history of the Iowa College for the Blind

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
May 8, 2026 10:56 am

The Vinton Kiwanis had a unique presentation courtesy of member Carolyn Hibbs. She addressed the club as "Lorraina Matese" a teacher and matron at the Iowa College for the Blind, in the year of 1881.

Benton Community Seniors awarded more than $100,000 in Scholarships

VINTON TODAY
May 7, 2026 12:05 pm

On Wednesday, Benton Community School held the annual Decision Day 2026 and Senior Awards event celebrating the senior class.Students had an opportunity to share their plans for life beyond high school.

Proclamation Honoring the Rule of Law at America's 250th Anniversary

BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
May 6, 2026 12:46 pm

RESOLUTION #26-36PROCLAMATION HONORING THE RULE OF LAW AT AMERICA’S 250th ANNIVERSARYWHEREAS, As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary in 2026, The Iowa State Bar Association and The Iowa State Bar Foundation proudly recognize the enduring role of lawyers in shaping, preserving, and defending our constitutional democracy.

Center Point-Urbana Celebrate with FFA Banquet

FFA
May 5, 2026 4:08 pm

Kolten McLaughlin & Kinze Manson,Center Point-Urbana FFA Co-Reporters,On Sunday, April 26th, the Center Point-Urbana FFA chapter concluded its 2025-2026 school year with its annual banquet and awards ceremony to show the success of the chapter members throughout the year and install the 2026-2027 officer team.

Eastern Iowa Honor Flight Announces 59th Flight to Washington, D.C.

EASTERN IOWA HONOR FLIGHT
May 5, 2026 4:04 pm

 On Tuesday, May 12, the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight will depart on Flight #55, sponsored by the memorial donations received from family and friends in honor of veterans who have passed before us.