The Vandalia Leader

12/12/2024

Van-Far High School FFA brings holiday cheer to Baptist Homes Nursing Home
By Brandie Gay

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Van-Far High School FFA, led by one of their dedicated advisers, Micha Bailey, recently took part in a special project to brighten the lives of residents at the Baptist Homes Nursing Home in Vandalia.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1194

12/12/2024

Vandalia Chamber’s feature Business of the Month
Vandalia Firestone and Appliance

For December 2024, Vandalia Firestone and Appliance is being honored as the Vandalia Chamber of Commerce’s Feature Business of the Month.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1191

12/12/2024

Van-Far varsity boys basketball team continues undefeated streak
By Brandie Gay

The Van-Far Varsity Boys basketball team had an incredible week, securing victories against Sturgeon, Paris, and Louisiana to maintain their undefeated season. Despite facing challenges, the team showcased their resilience and determination.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1188

12/12/2024

Athlete of the Week
By Brandie Gay

Davon Main, Senior

Van-Far High School football player Davon Main is this week’s Athlete of the Week. Davon attends Van-Far High School, where he was known for playing football, and for his unwavering dedication and positive attitude.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1185

12/09/2024

12/05/2024

Missouri state pension board bans use of fund for political donations
The vote, in response to contributions to the Amendment 6 campaign by pension funds for prosecutors and sheriffs, will be followed by legislation to ban donations from any state operated retirement fund

By Rudi Keller

Missouri Independent

The trustees of Missouri’s largest state employee retirement system voted Thursday to prohibit the use of pension funds for political
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1182

12/05/2024

Publisher of raided Kansas newspaper delivers advice to journalists: ‘Make democracy great again’
By Sherman Smith

Missouri Independent

TOPEKA, Kan.—The editor of the Kansas newspaper raided by police last year has a message for journalists struggling with their sense of purpose.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1179

12/05/2024

Van-Far Indians start season strong with 3 – 0 record
By Brandie Gay

The Van-Far Indians varsity basketball team has kicked off their season with an impressive 3 – 0 record, showcasing the talent and determination of their young squad.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1176

12/05/2024

Athlete of the Week
By Brandie Gay

Gabe Frie, Senior

Gabe’s dedication to sports and academics has made him a standout student athlete throughout his high school career.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1173

12/03/2024

Van-Far Elementary spreads joy on World Kindness Day with ‘Supplying our Seniors’ drive

By Brandie Gay

On Nov. 13, Van-Far Elementary celebrated World Kindness Day with an initiative called “Supplying our Seniors.”
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1169

12/03/2024

The Heartfelt Traditions
Gift event to benefit community’s children

By Brandie Gay

In Vandalia, the spirit of Christmas will be happening Saturday, Dec. 14. Lori Culwell knows what truly makes the season magical and has started a cherished tradition that has blossomed over the past few years—a free shopping experience for children.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1166

12/03/2024

VAHS receives generous donation from patron
The Vandalia Area Historical Society has received a $10,000 donation from the estate of Mary Beth Fowler Fitzgerald.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1163

11/21/2024

Vandalia’s journey to safer water with EPA and DNR support
By Brandie Gay

In a groundbreaking move to ensure the safety and health of its citizens, the Environmental Protection Agency announced a new mandate requiring all cities to inspect their service lines to each residence.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1158

11/21/2024

Van-Far High School honors veterans with breakfast and program
By Brandie Gay

On Nov. 12, Van-Far High School opened its doors to honor the brave men and women who have served U.S. in the military. The school hosted a special breakfast and a beautiful program to show their gratitude and respect for local veterans. The event was a heartwarming tribute, filled with appreciation and community spirit.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1155

11/21/2024

Resolution honors Teresa Wenzel
Whereas, Teresa Wenzel has served with distinction as an alderman on the Board of Aldermen for the City of Vandalia, Missouri, for 11 years.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1152

11/14/2024

6th Annual Diaper Drive set for Nov. 30
The Eastern Missouri Family YMCA announced its 6th Annual Community-Wide Diaper Drive, benefiting local families through partnerships with Parents as Teachers, CMCA Early Head Start, and Options for Women.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1149

11/14/2024

Status quo election leaves Missouri Republicans with legislative supermajorities
Each party flipped a seat held by the other in each chamber but Democrats made no gains for the first time in five elections

By Rudi Keller

Missouri Independent

The Missouri General Assembly will have new faces next year, but the partisan alignment will likely remain unchanged as Republicans appear to have retained their two-thirds supermajority in both chambers.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1146

11/14/2024

Athlete of the Week

By Brandie Gay

Kylie Miller,

Senior

Kylie Miller, a senior at Van-Far High School, is the daughter of David and Kelly Miller and the older sister to Dylan.
https://www.vandalialeader.com/?p=1143