The extra batteries are in the camera bag; the spare knee brace in the suitcase. As I prepare for a late week trip to Tennessee and Kentucky, I have one huge fear: That something big will happen in the news while I am away. So, I pray for rain. As I write this, the VS baseball team -- according to the Facebook updates from parents watching the VS/East Marshall double-header in Le Grand.

Benton County residents have the opportunity to help the American Cancer Society continue its 100-year fight against cancer by getting involved with the Relay For Life at the Vinton-Shellsburg High School Track, Vinton, on Friday, June 7, beginning at 6 p.m. If you are a survivor, come and join fellow survivors in the celebration lap at 7 p.

To all of our wonderful readers and supporters of Vinton Today, I want to thank you once again for your support! For the second year your response to our request for donations has made us realize the importance of this service to our community. Many of you sent in a donation along with a note expressing your appreciation for the job that we do.