Opinion

Small town elections are important

OP-EDSmall town elections are importantBy Heidi Kolbeck-UrlacherPolicy Director, Center for Rural AffairsFor weeks, candidate ads have dominated TV viewing. Text messages and phone calls are nonstop. Yard signs are popping…

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

Bostic Creations selected as Vandalia Chamber Business of the Month for October

By Brandie GayThe Vandalia Area Chamber of Commerce announced that Bostic Creations, owned and operated by Kari Bostic, as its October Business of the Month.This recognition highlights Bostic Creations’ dedication to quality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service, and continued support of the Vandalia community. Through hard work, creativity, and a commitment to meeting customers’ needs, Kari…

Community

MU Jefferson Farm’s accessible beehives help veterans

Slovenian-style beekeeping hives support veterans with disabilities while promoting wellness, community and agricultural educationCOLUMBIA, Mo. – Accessible, ergonomically designed beehives at the University of Missouri’s Jefferson Farm and Garden Extension and Education Center give disabled veterans an opportunity to practice beekeeping.The new hives grew out of MU Extension’s Heroes to Hives program, which addresses the…

Community

Games and Puzzles Link

Sports

Van-Far cross-country teams punch ticket to State

By Brandie GayThe Van-Far High School cross country teams are headed to the Missouri State Cross Country Championships after an outstanding performance at the district meet, where both the boys’ and girls’ teams secured top four finishes to earn state berths.The top four teams in each district race advance to the state championships, and the…

Opinion

Small town elections are important

OP-EDSmall town elections are importantBy Heidi Kolbeck-UrlacherPolicy Director, Center for Rural AffairsFor weeks, candidate ads have dominated TV viewing. Text messages and phone calls are nonstop. Yard signs are popping up like my late season…

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…