Seen around town: Too much of a good thing...and a bad thing

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
April 14, 2026 11:52 am

We're used to seeing trees down after wind...but here's something you don't often see. With all of the rain that we've had, it appears that this tree, next door to the Evergreen Cemetery, has some very wet feet and just couldn't stand in the soggy ground any longer, it lost its footing and toppled over.

St. Mary's Catholic Church part of Catholic Church's reorganization

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
April 14, 2026 11:28 am

The Archdiocese of Dubuque announced its plan to reorganize 160 parishes across Iowa into 24 pastorates beginning July 14, 2026. This yearlong “Journey in Faith” is aimed at strengthening evangelization, leadership formation and pastoral planning.

Cub Scout Pack 47 wants to turn Vinton Red, White, and Blue!

CUB PACK 47
April 13, 2026 7:44 pm

Hello Vinton Community!Cub Scout Pack 47 is holding their third annual flag fundraiser. We would love to have your support in honoring America and our veterans throughout Vinton's community.

Active Weather incoming this week

BENTON COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
April 13, 2026 3:18 pm

There will be several rounds of storms that are probable from this afternoon through Wednesday AM. The greatest  coverage and intensity of storms is expected Tuesday afternoon and evening.

H.O.T. Grants Awarded to Support Community Projects Across Vinton

VINTON UNLIMITED
April 13, 2026 3:09 pm

A wide range of community-focused projects will soon or have come to life thanks to the latest round of H.O.T. (Hotel/Motel Occupancy Tax) Grant awards.

Vinton Shellsburg Grand March kicks off Prom Night

VINTON TODAY
April 13, 2026 9:52 am

The guys and gals sparkled and wowed the audience who came out to enjoy the latest styles of the season. In formal wear, from the brightest colors of dresses and tuxedos, to the comfort of blue jeans and tennis shoes, students arrived at the Vinton-Shellsburg High School Grand March on Saturday night.

Two Bees or not Two Bees, that is the Question

IOWA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
April 12, 2026 12:41 pm

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources and Iowa State University partner with national nonprofit to launch statewide effort to conserve Iowa’s pollinatorsA new statewide project is looking for Iowa volunteers to help researchers track and monitor the state’s at-risk bumble bees.

Nominate Anyone Under 25 for the 2026 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award

IOWA SECRETARY OF STATE
April 10, 2026 12:34 pm

Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate is reminding Iowans to submit their nominations for the 2026 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award, which honors Iowans aged 25 or younger who have made meaningful contributions to their communities and demonstrated a strong commitment to civic engagement, service, and leadership.

Iowa Pork Producers enlists Belle Plaine native to lead Consumer Outreach

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
April 10, 2026 12:34 pm

The Iowa Pork Producers Association has appointed Hope Brecht, who grew up in Belle Plaine, as its new Consumer Outreach Director, reinforcing its focus on communication and consumer engagement.

Roads are Optional

VALERIE CLOSE, EDITOR
April 10, 2026 8:57 am

Thursday morning found this driver "taking the scenic route" literally. The accident happened just a few miles down the Mt. Auburn blacktop Crews were on site at approximately 7:00 a.