Opinion

Don’t become part of the story

By Stan SchwartzDon’t become part of the story. That lesson was drilled into me when I went to journalism school. Observe and report was the other side of that coin.But…

Lifestyle

March 2026 Library Staff Book Review

Reviewed by Kasi WelbornCirculation AssistantMexico-Audrain County Library (Headquarters)‘Deer Run Home’ by Ann Clare LeZotte Effie is deaf. She speaks a different language than her entire family. She goes through her…

News

Candidate forum scheduled for March 18 at Modern Maturity Building

By Brandie GayVandalia residents will have a chance to hear directly from the individuals seeking city leadership positions during a public candidate forum on Wednesday, March 18, at the Modern Maturity Building in Vandalia.Voters will hear from candidates running for Mayor, Ward I, Ward II, and Ward III in the upcoming municipal election. Those appearing…

Community

10 tips to keep the romance in relationships

COLUMBIA, Mo. – With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Kale Monk offers 10 tips on strengthening relationships.Monk, the author of Relationship Maintenance: Theory Process, and Context, is a University of Missouri associate professor and state extension couple and family well-being specialist.He notes that relationships have a big impact on our mental and physical health. A strong…

Special Sections

Games and Puzzles Link

Sports

Van-Far closes regular season with convincing 58 – 38 win over Wright City

By Brandie GayAfter a slow opening quarter, the Van-Far Indians locked in defensively and surged past Wright City on Friday night, closing out their regular season with a 58 – 38 road victory.Van-Far trailed 14–11 after the first eight minutes, but the tone shifted quickly. Senior standout Pacey Reading spearheaded the turnaround, scoring 13 of…

Opinion

Don’t become part of the story

By Stan SchwartzDon’t become part of the story. That lesson was drilled into me when I went to journalism school. Observe and report was the other side of that coin.But last week, I nearly became…

Lifestyle

March 2026 Library Staff Book Review

Reviewed by Kasi WelbornCirculation AssistantMexico-Audrain County Library (Headquarters)‘Deer Run Home’ by Ann Clare LeZotte Effie is deaf. She speaks a different language than her entire family. She goes through her days being stomped at and…