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One Book, One Sullivan: public book discussion with students
•March 12, 2025•
by D.M. Williamee
Founded in 2007, and funded by Rotary under Rotary Club’s reading initiative, “One Book, One Sullivan” connects middle school and high school students with the community at large through reading. Each yearly event allows students to interact with adults in the community where they discuss the book chosen by the students. Students learn better communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills in this program, monthly student meetings and this yearly public event.
Read MoreSullivan Fire Department: free smoke detectors for homeowners
•March 12, 2025•
by D.M. Williamee
The City of Sullivan Fire Department will provide free smoke detectors and install them for local homeowners in their fire district. They will also provide free smoke detectors to renters if the landlord contacts the fire department on behalf of the tenant. Landlords are required to have both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in rental units. Sullivan Fire Chief Chris Wright stated, “natural gas detectors are also a great idea if you have natural gas appliances in the home, as people can become “nose blind” to the smell over time.”
Read MoreCity approves union contract, TIF agreements
•March 12, 2025•
by Sharon Barricklow
The Sullivan City Council approved a new labor contract, some tax increment financing agreements, and a plan to hold monthly entertainment on the city square during a busy meeting Monday night.
The council approved an agreement with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) for a new contract for city Water Department workers. The agreement still needs to be ratified by union members.
“We think it’s a good agreement,” said council member Chuck Woodworth.
Read MoreLocal fire results in half-million-dollar loss
Shuttle service takes off at Lake Shelbyville
Photo furnished
Derek Hayden one of the owners of Lake Shelbyville Shuttle Service waits for a group outside an area winery.
•June 19, 2024•
by Sharon Barricklow
A new business offering tours of local wineries and breweries is reaching area residents and tourists this summer with personalized trips.
Lake Shelbyville Shuttle plans five hour trips that take visitors to wineries and breweries. One of the owners, Derek Hayden, said the trips can be used for specialty parties and as a way for campers and other visitors to see what is available in the Lake Shelbyville area.
“We’ve had bachelorette parties, end of school year teacher parties and campers wanting to see more of the area,” he said. Read More
New thrift store Second Act opens in Arthur
Photo courtesy of Timmy Valentine
•June 12, 2024•
by Ariana R Cherry
Thrifting is a great way to save money on gently used items. In today’s economy, second hand shopping is an ideal way to find the clothing brands and products for your home at a fraction of its original price. At least 93% of Americans shop online for second-hand items and in 2023, the U.S. second-hand market generated an estimated amount of $53 billion according to Capital One’s thrifting statistics.
If you are a regular thrifter, you will notice that not all thrift stores are the same. The creative minds behind Second Act are the dynamic trio of Timmy Valentine, John Stevens, and Ty Mosier. These Theatre enthusiasts and artists have poured their hearts and souls into creating a thrift store that is as unique and creative as the plays that the Little Theatre produces.
“We wanted to create an experience, not just a thrift store,” Valentine noted. “We have everything displayed beautifully and theatrically. It’s not like walking into your average store,” he added. When you walk into Second Act, you might even notice the retro music lightly playing in the background which creates the perfect atmosphere when shopping for second-hand items. Read More
S, no OV in the future; Sullivan nixes 20+ year co-op
•February 5, 2025•
by E. Scott England
Over twenty years ago, Sullivan and, then, just Bethany, formed a co-op to give access to sports for students who would not normally be granted such an opportunity. For Bethany, this meant that those desiring to play football would indeed have the opportunity. For the longest time, the co-op was just called Sullivan/Bethany, but colloquially was known just as the Sullivan Redskins. Eventually, in 2001 Bethany and Findlay merged to become Okaw Valley. Over time, the co-op decided to adopt the acronym SOV for the Sullivan/Okaw Valley teams.
Read MoreLPC Girls Basketball All-Conference announced
•March 12, 2025•
The Lincoln Prairie Conference announced the Girls Basketball All-Conference teams with several area girls receiving honors. Earning first team honors were senior Addison Minor (unanimous selection) and senior Emily Miller from Sullivan and sophomore Sophie Monts of ALAH. Senior Shae Ellis of Sullivan earned 2nd Team selection and sophomore Morgan Casteel of ALAH senior Julia Schrock of Okaw Valley earned honorable mention.
Ten Dolphins qualify for Circle City Classic
Obituaries 3-12-2025: Nellie Stevens
Nellie Stevens
Nellie (Spencer) Stevens, of Decatur, IL, went to her heavenly home on March 9, 2025. Her firm belief in Jesus Christ as her personal savior, led her to a life of committed discipleship, sharing her faith with all who knew her.
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