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THE LOST RITUAL OF IRONING
When I was growing up, ironing was a scheduled chore for every mom. A day was set aside each week for the task. Mounds of wrinkled fabric billowed from a waiting basket.

Van-Far graduate starts her own line of health drinks
1993 Van-Far graduate Drenda Williams launched her own line of health drinks last month.

Hoover family donates a piece of Vandalia history
Dea Hoover recently donated the 1800s patient chair of Dr. J.C.

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.
Shot and stripped
After firing a bullet through his chest and stripping him, Confederate bushwhackers dumped Simon Branstetter into a pitiful trench and walked away.

Parents intervene in Missouri voucher lawsuit with help from Herzog Foundation leader
A trio of parents and a national advocacy group are seeking to intervene in opposition to a lawsuit filed by Missouri’s largest teacher’s union challenging the constitutionality of $51 million in state funding for a private-school voucher program.

Van-Far Booster Club gears up for another year of supporting student athletes
As the 2025-2026 school year approaches, the Van-Far Booster Club is once again rallying behind the district’s student-athletes with renewed energy and commitment. Known for its support of Van-Far’s sports programs, the Booster Club is preparing for another impactful year of fundraising, community engagement, and school spirit.

Missouri lawmakers add grade-level performance to standardized test results
Missouri parents may soon have a better understanding of whether their child is performing at or above grade level on the state’s standardized test under a sweeping education bill awaiting the governor’s signature.

Opening day at Vandalia Family Aquatic Center is quiet
Overcast skies and chilly temperatures made for a quiet start for the Vandalia Family Aquatic Center. The staff and lifeguards were on duty and waiting for the children and families to show when the door opened at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday.

Van-Far Athletes honored at Winter Sports Banquet
The Van-Far High School community gathered to celebrate the achievements of its student-athletes at the annual Winter Sports Banquet held on March 18, 2025. The event recognized the hard work, dedication, and outstanding performances of the Varsity and Junior Varsity Boys and Girls Basketball teams, as well as the Van-Far Varsity Cheerleaders.