News

By Brooklyn DraisyAn encampment set up by pro-Palestine activists on the University of Iowa campus was dismantled within half an hour by university, county and state police.University of Iowa Action for Palestine, described on its social media as an “autonomous network of students, community members, alumni, and staff organizing and acting for a free, Liberated Palestine,” set up tents in Hubbard Park early Monday morning.

Auditor of State Rob Sand today released a report of recommendations on the Iowa Veterans Home for the year ended June 30, 2022.  A copy of this report is below.

On a perfect spring morning last week, Kindergarten students from Tilford Elementary made their way to the Lutheran Home to entertain the residents. Lois Martin led the children in the outdoor concert.Singing songs and playing instruments from their latest concert, the group of more than 100 children sang with gusto. The residents appreciated the concert smiling and clapping their appreciation.

The students were absolute aces! The event, organized in collaboration with Matt Boggess, VPRD Director and Lions Club members saw enthusiastic participation from middle school students, Lions Club members, local community leaders and teachers in a display of camaraderie, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship. The annual event is an effort to support our community youth and Vinton Shellsburg High School Scholarships, empowering deserving students to pursue their educational dreams.

The Iowa Department of Education did a little homework on some of the stats that they've been sharing for more than a decade. They checked their math and found that the actual graduation rate is lower than they had been reporting.According to the new stats, the four-year high school graduation rate is 87.5% for the Class of 2023. The rate of graduations in 2021 was also lowered from 90.

 The Benton County Community Foundation’s 2023 annual report is now available on the Community Foundation’s website at www.bentonccf.org. The report highlights key impacts made and lists funds held with the Community Foundation along with grant-funded projects. In 2023, a total of $310,013 in grants from all charitable giving funds of the Foundation were awarded to organizations benefiting Benton County residents and communities.

By Robin OpsahlThe U.S. Department of Justice intends to file a lawsuit against an Iowa law making illegal immigration a state crime if the law remains in effect, a top official wrote in a letter to Gov. Kim Reynolds and state Attorney General Brenna Bird.First reported by the Des Moines Register,Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian Boynton said in a letter to the Republican state officials that the federal department “intends to bring a lawsuit to enforce the supremacy of federal law” and enjoin Senate File 2340, blocking it from being enforced.

The annual Bike Rodeo brought teeny tiny tots and children a few years older. The event was coordinated by the Vinton Parks and Rec Department and the Vinton Kiwanis Club. Both were on hand to direct traffic.Children had an opportunity to start out with a safety check with the Vinton Police Department. Officers checked helmets to make sure they were properly worn, and making sure tires were inflated, and the bikes were ready to go.

Each year, Blessed Hope Community Church holds a Faith in Action in town mission trip. The church is making plans now for their 2024 trip. Labor Projects are needed, nominate someone today! Could you or someone you know benefit from free labor services such as yard work, cleaning, light construction, painting/scraping, etc.?Nominations for projects are due by May 3, 2024!If you don't consider BHCC your home church but are interested in helping to provide labor services, reach out to Haley!Contact Haley at (319) 558-6880 with any questions or to submit a verbal nomination.

Following the resignation of Benton County assistant attorney Tim Dille, the County Attorney's office was in need of a replacement. Approval was given by the Benton County Supervisors on Wednesday to hire Attorney Alisha Stach-Lorang. Her work experience includes working in Dubuque, Linn and Blackhawk Counties. She comes with more than 25 years of experience.