News
Bird Celebrates Protecting Kids In Court
With a vote at the Iowa State Legislature, both chambers have officially passed Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird’s constitutional amendment to protect kids in court.Attorney General Bird’s proposal follows a July 2024, Iowa Supreme Court ruling that eliminated decades of protections for Iowa kids in court. Iowa is currently the only state in the country that does not allow kids to safely testify against their abuser from a separate room.
Eastern Iowa Honor Flight Announces 54th Flight to Washington, D.C.
The Eastern Iowa Honor Flight Announces its 54th Flight to Washington, D.C.. The flight will include nearly 90 veterans from across Eastern Iowa.On Tuesday, April 29, the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight will launch Flight #54, sponsored by Quaker Oats. Since beginning operations in 2009, the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight has transported thousands of veterans and their guardians to Washington, D.
Vinton Kiwanis bring Easter fun to area Children

Four-year graduation rate increased .8%, returning to prepandemic levels
Four-year graduation rate increased .8%, returning to prepandemic levelsIowa’s high school graduation rate climbed nearly a full percentage point, reaching 88.3% for the graduating class of 2024, according to figures released today by the Iowa Department of Education. This marks the first time since 2020 that Iowa’s graduation rate has returned to prepandemic levels.
Iowa Dept. of Ed. announces opening of 2025-26 Education Savings Accounts
Families can submit applications starting April 16 at 8 a.m. through June 30 at 11:59 p.m.The Iowa Department of Education today announced that the Students First Education Savings Account (ESA) program officially opens for applications for the 2025-26 school year on Wednesday, April 16, at 8 a.m.Parents and guardians can access the online application from a link on the Students First Education Savings Accounts webpage.
Bill waives college tuition and fees for peace officers moves out of subcommitee
By Brooklyn DraisyA bill to waive university tuition and fees for Iowa law enforcement has moved out of a House subcommittee with support from its members and the public.House Study Bill 329 would require Iowa community colleges and public universities to waive tuition and fees for “peace officers,” defined in Iowa code as sheriffs, deputies, police officers, certain parole and probation officers, security officers employed by a state university, conservation officers, and qualified employees of the Department of Transportation or an aviation authority.
“Hop On” GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov to Find Your Unclaimed Property
Who said Easter egg hunts are just for kids? Treasurer Roby Smith is encouraging Iowans to search GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov ahead of the Easter holiday weekend to see if they have “Easter eggs” to be found.“Spring is in the air, and Great Iowa Treasure Hunt is inviting all Iowans to embark on a thrilling digital adventure to find their lost or forgotten assets,” said Treasurer Smith.
No Email on Good Friday
There will be no email on Good Friday, April 18, 2025. As always, if there is any time-sensitve information or an emergency situation arises, an email will be sent and notifications via the Facebook page will go out. Enjoy the weekend, find all of the Easter Eggs and enjoy some time with the family!