Opinion

THE FIRST MOW

He hitches up his jeans with his thumbs. The wrinkles around his eyes deepen as he stares out the window. From his toothpick-parted lips come the words he has waited…

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

Farm Safety

USDA addresses producer questions on farm safety net changes in new legislation

By Jason VanceFarmers across the country are seeking clarity as new provisions tied to the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” reshape key elements of the federal farm safety net. USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce says the department is working to provide answers—particularly on base acres, program timelines, and payment limitation…

Community

garage sale

Vandalia All-Town Garage Sales – May 2, 2026

803 S Main – Kuda Family & Friends 1009 W McPike – Anderson – Patio Furniture, Kids Clothes & Crochet items 217 E Arlington – Wright Family 605 E Page – Dunlap – Lots of Stuff 303 W Arlington – Riley – Lots of items – Liquidation of the Estate 104 Kirtley – Poulin 606…

Special Sections

Games and Puzzles Link

Sports

Van-Far Junior High performs well at South Shelby Invitational

By Brandie GayThe Van-Far Junior High track and field team turned in a strong, well-rounded performance at the South Shelby Middle School Invitational on April 14, earning multiple medals and team point finishes against a competitive field.Van-Far brought home two, third-place medals on the day. Emma Evans placed third in the shot put, while Eli…

Opinion

THE FIRST MOW

He hitches up his jeans with his thumbs. The wrinkles around his eyes deepen as he stares out the window. From his toothpick-parted lips come the words he has waited months to utter. “It’s time…

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…