Today's News

In the past, I have written about a German visitor, Frederick Gustorf, who visited Vandalia in 1835. He traveled the National Road and found Vandalia, with a population of 800, “unchanged since it was founded 15 years ago.”
He continued: “One can see about five or six big frame buildings containing stores.  The statehouse is a common brick building.  A solitary bank, a wooden church, with a small tower, and two or three state offices complete the community of Vandalia.

“W.E. Etcheson, General Merchandise” was the large sign under which Donald Etcheson was (figuratively) born 82 years ago, and lived from infancy until young manhood.
Don Etcheson probably has more memories of the old Shafter Store, which was located on Ill. Route 185, than most people do.
This is not surprising, as he grew up there in the days when Shafter was rather a hub of business and activities.

Merchants in downtown Vandalia have decided to combat the sluggish economy by taking matters into their own hands. To help jump-start business activity in that historic district, they have formed an association.
Simply called the Merchants Association, the group attracted about 20 people to a kickoff meeting last Tuesday, and leaders have made plans to host a rummage sale on Gallatin Street on Saturday, Sept.11.

After years of planning and months of construction, the new home for the Family YMCA of Fayette County was dedicated on Saturday.
The grand opening included a full slate of activities and entertainment, as well as a dedication ceremony Saturday afternoon.
“This is one of the best facilities we have in Vandalia,” said Mayor Rick Gottman. “It is a very important project to enhance the quality of life here.”