Field Trip Season and Back Again, A Naturalist Tale
By Aaron Askelson, NaturalistDuring the months of April and May, naturalists are extra busy. Field trip season means one day we might
be working with 80 preschoolers and the next day we will be dealing with sophomores in high school.
City Brush & Compost Yard CLOSED due to high water
Monday, July 13, 2026 The City Brush & Compost Yard is closed due to high water. No alternate site will be available as the closure is expected to be short.
Monday, July 13, 2026 The City Brush & Compost Yard is closed due to high water. No alternate site will be available as the closure is expected to be short.
DON’T Click it…if it’s about a “ticket”
FRAUDULENT PHONE CALL-TEXT-EMAIL SCAMS are targeting Iowans! First it was texting and calling you about fake unpaid traffic tickets. Now, Iowans are also getting fake court orders with neighboring state information.
FRAUDULENT PHONE CALL-TEXT-EMAIL SCAMS are targeting Iowans! First it was texting and calling you about fake unpaid traffic tickets. Now, Iowans are also getting fake court orders with neighboring state information.
Minor flooding expected by Monday
Following torrential rain that fell early this week in southern Minnesota and northern Iowa, the Cedar River basin will raise our river level. Benton County Emergency Management Coordinator, Dean Vrba said that as of right now “the river is forecasted to crest right below action stage at 13.
Following torrential rain that fell early this week in southern Minnesota and northern Iowa, the Cedar River basin will raise our river level. Benton County Emergency Management Coordinator, Dean Vrba said that as of right now “the river is forecasted to crest right below action stage at 13.
Benton Community Reflections on 2025-26 School Year
As our hallways have quieted down for the summer, it is a time to reflect on the incredible school year we have shared at Benton Community. A school district is so much more than our buildings or grades achieved; it is a community where dedicated educators, students, families, and our community collaborate to create an environment where every student has an opportunity to experience success.
As our hallways have quieted down for the summer, it is a time to reflect on the incredible school year we have shared at Benton Community. A school district is so much more than our buildings or grades achieved; it is a community where dedicated educators, students, families, and our community collaborate to create an environment where every student has an opportunity to experience success.
Shellsburg Music Garden is ready for a Symphony
The Shellsburg Area Community Group is at it again! With help from SACG, the Shellsburg Music Garden is installed and ready for children to enjoy and create their own fun at th park.
The Shellsburg Area Community Group is at it again! With help from SACG, the Shellsburg Music Garden is installed and ready for children to enjoy and create their own fun at th park.
Community Scam Alert using Virginia Gay Hospital
Community Scam AlertWe have received reports from two community members who were contacted by phone and saw "Virginia Gay Hospital" displayed on their caller ID.
Community Scam AlertWe have received reports from two community members who were contacted by phone and saw "Virginia Gay Hospital" displayed on their caller ID.
2026 Party in the Park Schedule of Events
THURSDAY, JULY 16, 4:30 PM TO 9 PM AT COURTHOUSE LAWNSTARTING AT 4:30 PM - FARMERS SAVINGS BANK & TRUST Community Picnic: Free hot dogs, chips & drinks served from the bank’s parking lot (401 B Ave)STARTING AT 6:00 PM - KIDDIE PARADE: Decorate your bike, your stroller or your wagon.
THURSDAY, JULY 16, 4:30 PM TO 9 PM AT COURTHOUSE LAWNSTARTING AT 4:30 PM - FARMERS SAVINGS BANK & TRUST Community Picnic: Free hot dogs, chips & drinks served from the bank’s parking lot (401 B Ave)STARTING AT 6:00 PM - KIDDIE PARADE: Decorate your bike, your stroller or your wagon.
Scouting America Continues to Build a Legacy at Hannen Lake
By Cam Grubic, South Unit Park RangerHannen Lake Park property was purchased from the Hannen family in Blairstown,
Iowa in 1957, with the lake and park itself being constructed shortly after.
By Cam Grubic, South Unit Park RangerHannen Lake Park property was purchased from the Hannen family in Blairstown,
Iowa in 1957, with the lake and park itself being constructed shortly after.
V-S FFA Rolls for “High Stakes” at Old MacDonald Bingo Fundraiser
By Co-Reporter, Raine WheelerThe Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter held an eventful evening for families looking for fun while supporting a great cause! This event took place at the Benton County Fairgrounds and featured a Bingo Night complete with food, drinks, activities, and even a petting zoo for community members to enjoy.
By Co-Reporter, Raine WheelerThe Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter held an eventful evening for families looking for fun while supporting a great cause! This event took place at the Benton County Fairgrounds and featured a Bingo Night complete with food, drinks, activities, and even a petting zoo for community members to enjoy.