News

Angel Tree 2021 has begun accepting applications for Christmas assistance

Angel Tree 2021 has begun accepting applications for Christmas assistance and will continue accepting names through December 3. There are three ways to apply:1) IN PERSON AT: First Christian Church 1209 W. 13th St. (next to Theisen’s on Hwy. 218) Monday – Friday, 9am-11:30am 2) CALL: LaNette 319-521-1496 3) CALL: Sarah Parker 319-202-2786 Benton County Angel Tree is always looking for businesses and/or organizations to make donations to help our children have a better Christmas this year.

VSHS Carolers visit area stores

VSHS Chorale Students Bring the sounds of the season to downtown Vinton VSHS choir students kicked off the holiday season with their first round of Christmas Caroling on Sunday downtown Vinton at the Christmas Open House. The carolers stopped to sing in various locations bringing the sounds of the season with them. Pictured are: Noel McKenna, Cameron Dawson-Fink, Bryleigh Farmer, Bryce Walker, Blaze Soquet, Samuel Glynn, John McNeill and director Michala Martin.

VGH Tree Walk Raffle Winner Announced

Virginia Gay Hospital announces Michele Schoonover as the winner of the VGH Tree Walk Raffle. We are grateful for all who participated in the raffle in support of Tree of Lights! We plan to bring the annual Tree Walk back to the hospital next year. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

VS FFA Prepares Community for Holiday Season with Lights and Roping

Clayton McKenna, Chase Rippel, Ashlee Thomas, and Matthew Bookmeier made up a group that tackled jobs at the businesses near the courthouse. By: Co-Reporter Isabel MullinexOn Saturday, November 13th, 14 FFA members gathered at the Vinton Courthouse at 9 A.M. to help GoVS with the annual hanging of holiday lights and roping. This is a great way for the chapter to be involved in the community and help out. The day before, 10 FFA members got the roping ready at the Animal Lab at the High School on Friday, November 12th to prepare.

Area Vinton shoppers made their way downtown on Sunday

The traditional "after the Christmas parade but before Thanksgiving" Christmas Open House was held Sunday afternoon in downtown Vinton. Area shoppers enjoyed treats, deals, and specials rolled out especially for the event. Don't forget that Santa's mailbox is available at LaGrange Pharmacy for those who would like to pen a letter to Jolly Old

Santa Claus arrives in Vinton

Santa arrives in Vinton and welcomes children at the Benton County Courthouse Thursday evening brought excited children to downtown Vinton to welcome Santa Claus to town. Santa along with the winners of the Turkey Coloring Contest rode atop one of the fire trucks from the Vinton Fire Department.The events kicked off with the chili supper at the Vinton Fire Department held by the Vinton Lions Club who donated the proceeds to the Eastern Iowa Honor Flights, The annual Christmas Parade began a bit later kicking off promptly at 6:00 p.

Vinton Unlimited Holiday Punch Card Program begins Sunday, November 21

Vinton Unlimited is offering a 'holiday lights' punch card to be used during the holiday shopping season! For every $10 spent, receive one punch. Completed cards will be entered to win weekly prizes of Vinton Value Dollars and one grand prize. DOUBLE PUNCHES will be available at the Holiday Open House on November 21st and on Small Business Saturday, November 27th.

V-S FFA Chapter Receives 2 Star Rating placing in the Top 5% of the Nation

V-S FFA Chapter places in the Top 5% in the Nation By: Co-Reporter, Grace Schminke On October 27th, 16 members of the Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana. On their way there, the chapter stopped at Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch. While there the members were able to pet, feed, and even kiss the Reindeer. They also got to learn about practices used on the ranch to raise the unique species.

Garrison House Fire Tuesday Night

Fire in Garrison on Tuesday night destroys house at 100 East Maple On Tuesday evening the Garrison Fire Department responded to a house fire at 100 East Maple Street, which destroyed the former Emma Crossley house. The house is located at the corner of Maple and Sycamore streets across from the Methodist Church. The Department was assisted by the Vinton Fire Department. Photos sent in by Linda Waterman and Timothy Houtchens.

VGH Founders Award Honoree - Ruth Mayhew

Ruth Mayhew served as Administrative Assistant for 18 years prior to her retirement in 1999. Mike Riege stated “she was a tireless worker, filling roles of secretary, Board Secretary, Human Resources, Payroll Clerk and Benefits Administrator. Ruth was the one who brought in the idea of the Tree of Lights to Virginia Gay Hospital back in 1992. Since then, over $1.