News
Vinton Parks and Recreation Director moving on to Hiawatha
In a note shared with his friends, Vinton's Parks and Recreation Department Director, Matt Boggess shared the following:Dear Vinton Friends and Neighbors,I want to share some personal news with you all. After many meaningful years serving as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Vinton, I’ve made the difficult decision to step down from my role, as I've accepted a new position as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Hiawatha. Roadside Chat - Pomp/Circumstance, Celebrate Wisely, Drive Sober
“We DID it!” screamed the Harvard Law School commencement speaker. In the classic comedy Legally Blonde, the lovable Elle Woods delivers a moving speech to classmates about passion and personal conviction spurred on by agonizing heartbreak.While Elle may be driven and ditsy, she’s also intelligent and wise under that graduation cap. Her father isn’t so smart, sloshing a full martini glass in her honor – during the ceremony. Students Explore Agriculture at Benton County’s Third Grade Ag Day
By: Co-Reporter Sophia Newton On April 30th, 2025, the Third Grade Ag Day was held at the Benton County Fairgrounds, welcoming third-grade students from across Benton County. Students from Tilford Elementary and neighboring school districts rotated through a series of hands-on educational stations, each led by members of the Vinton-Shellsburg, Benton Community, and Belle Plaine FFA chapters. Local student honored as 'Best of the Class'
Addy Chvala from Vinton-Shellsburg CSD was honored as a member of the 2025 Best of the Class. KWWL and the University of Northern Iowa recognized valedictorians or top graduating seniors from across eastern Iowa at a celebration on Saturday, May 3rd at Maucker Union on the UNI campus.KWWL Midwest Region Director of Sales Kelly Jones noted “KWWL is proud to be associated with an event that shines a light on these outstanding students, their families, and schools. Notice: Benton Co. accepting applications for Veterans Affairs Commission
NoticeThe Benton County Board of Supervisors is accepting applications for the Benton County Veterans Affairs Commission. This is a three-member commission that provides guidance and over sees operations of the Benton County Veterans Affairs Department. This position is a 3-year term. The individual interested in this position will be filling this seat until the end of the term which is June 30, 2028.
A Week to Thank Our Hometown Heroes
This week, as flags quietly wave in the spring breeze and sirens echo with a little more reverence, Vinton joins communities across the country in observing National Police Week, a time set aside to honor the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of our nation’s law enforcement officers.First established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, National Police Week is more than a line on the calendar—it’s a heartfelt reminder of the critical role these men and women play in the safety and strength of our communities.
Provider Spotlight: Dr. Brian Meeker, D.O. Continues Commitment to Our Community
We are proud to share that Dr. Brian Meeker will continue his role as a physician and leader at Vinton Family Medical Clinic for another three years! Since arriving in Vinton in 1992, Dr. Meeker has been a cornerstone of healthcare in Benton County, providing compassionate, comprehensive care to generations of families and playing a central role in the development of primary care services in the region. Vinton-Shellsburg to Host Community Facilities Forum, Monday, May 12th
The Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District invites families, staff, and community members to participate in tonight's community forums focused on our school facilities and future planning. These forums are a continuation of the important conversations we’ve been having around our facilities, grade alignment, and the long-term needs of our district.
Henkle Shares Library Information with local Kiwanis
Carolyn Hibbs introduced the librarian of the Vinton Public Library to the area Kiwanis Club for their weekly meeting at the end of April. Kelly Henkle introduced herself to the group and shared some of the updates with the group. Henkle has served as librarian over the last 2.5 years. The library has expanded its hours to accommodate residents. 2025 BENTON COUNTY AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY RELAY FOR LIFE
Relay For Life is more than just a fundraising walk. It is a global movement that celebrates cancer survivors and caregivers, honors loved ones, and helps fund the future of cancer research and care. Money raised from Relay directly supports members of our community by funding breakthrough research, 24/7 support for people with cancer, access to lifesaving screenings, and much more.