Newsletter Late Week

A new chapter for Van-Far softball: Cameron Huff leads the Lady Indians
The Van-Far Lady Indians are stepping into the 2025 softball season with a fresh face at the helm. Cameron Huff, newly appointed varsity head coach, brings energy, vision, and a developmental mindset to a young but determined squad.

Missouri AG office is working to halt the Grain Belt Express transmission line across the state
Dan Engemann, director of policy for Missouri’s attorney general, equated the Grain Belt Express transmission line issue to the land use issue of the Katy Trail.

Pike County Memorial Hospital Vandalia Clinic named Vandalia Area Chamber Featured Business of the Month
The Vandalia Area Chamber of Commerce said is proud to recognize Pike County Memorial Hospital Vandalia Clinic as the Featured Business of the Month for August. Since opening in April 2016, the clinic has been a vital part of the community, offering high-quality, accessible healthcare to Vandalia and surrounding areas.
Van-Far football and softball teams shine in Friday Night Jamborees
The Van-Far Indians kicked off their fall sports season with spirited performances in jamborees held Friday night, giving fans a glimpse of the energy and potential both the football and softball teams bring into the 2025 season.

Vandalia Board of Aldermen advances public safety, infrastructure, and community projects
The City of Vandalia Board of Aldermen met last week to address a full agenda of initiatives aimed at improving public safety, modernizing infrastructure, and enhancing community spaces. Several motions passed unanimously, while others were tabled for future discussion.

Van-Far coaches optimistic for this athletic season
VF Football - The Van-Far Indians are set to kick off their 2025 football season with a mix of excitement and anticipation as head coach Lucas Gibson and assistant coaches Cale Utterback, Brian Kurz, and Benjamin Burnett prepare their squad for the opening jamboree at Monroe City on Friday, Aug. 22.

Hoover family donates a piece of Vandalia history
Dea Hoover recently donated the 1800s patient chair of Dr. J.C.
Beef prices remain high
BOLIVAR, Mo. – Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the average retail price of ground beef rose to a record $6.12 per pound in June 2025.

Prairie Days 2025: Vandalia's signature fall festival returns Sept. 26–27
The Vandalia Area Chamber of Commerce said it is thrilled to announce the return of Prairie Days, the town’s annual fall festival, taking place Friday, Sept. 26 and Saturday, Sept.

More than a game: Van-Far Booster Club drives athletic success
At Van-Far High School, student athletes are thriving thanks to the support of the Van-Far Booster Club. Although the club doesn’t purchase high school uniforms, its contributions to athletic equipment and youth programs have made a lasting impact across the district.