Opinion

Sunshine laws keep government in the light

As U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis famously described, sunlight is the best disinfectant. In American democracy, that idea takes legal form through Sunshine Laws. These open-record laws require government…

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

Vandalia elects Nasir as its new mayor

By Stan Schwartz In a stunning upset, Pete Nasir defeated incumbent Ralph Kuda for mayor of Vandalia. With just 413 total votes, Nasir garnered 229 votes to Kuda’s 184, a margin of just 45 votes. The Audrain County Clerk’s office posted the unofficial results early this morning for these races. In Vandalia’s Ward I, Travis…

Community

Vandalia community comes together for annual Easter Egg Hunt at Baptist Homes

By Brandie Gay Laughter, excitement, and plenty of bright-colored eggs filled the grounds of Baptist Homes Nursing Home as the Vandalia Area Chamber of Commerce and the United Credit Union, Vandalia-branch teamed up to host the annual Vandalia Easter Egg Hunt. Despite unpredictable spring weather, the event was a success, and the Vandalia Area Chamber…

Special Sections

Games and Puzzles Link

Sports

Aces Mid-MO battle through 6-game weekend; Van-Far’s Dickerman contributes in key moments

By Brandie GayThe Aces Mid-MO 14u softball team pushed through a demanding six-game weekend, opening pool play with a 1 – 2 record before making a strong run-in bracket competition. While the roster delivered a collective effort throughout the tournament, Van-Far athlete Rayne Dickerman provided steady contributions in several key moments.Pool Play Opens with a…

Opinion

Sunshine laws keep government in the light

As U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis famously described, sunlight is the best disinfectant. In American democracy, that idea takes legal form through Sunshine Laws. These open-record laws require government agencies to conduct business transparently…

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…