OV’s Stauder: Superintendent of Distinction
•April 29, 2026•

Dr. Kent Stauder, superintendent of Okaw Valley CUSD #302, has been named the 2026 Superintendent of Distinction by his peers in the Abe Lincoln Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA). Stauder was honored at an awards luncheon on April 23 in Springfield, where 21 regional Superintendents of Distinction were recognized. Dr. Steven Isoye, Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education, served as the featured speaker.
Read MoreLovington Village meeting fraught with contention
•April 29, 2026•
by DM Williamee
On April 13th, the Village of Lovington held its regular monthly meeting, with Lovington locals in attendance who were armed with questions ranging from water bill payments to liquor licensure, and whether ordinance changes to the liquor ordinance were legal and/or ethical. Before the regular meeting, a brief appropriations meeting was held. Appropriations remained unchanged through to 2027, with no dissenting votes by the village board.
Resident Carolyn Trower spoke, requesting that the Village create an online payment and billing portal for utilities, specifically the water bill. Mrs. Trower advised the board that bills sent via U.S. Mail were frequently lost in transit, requiring her to call the Village to find out what she owed so she could make the payment on time and avoid late fees. She contended that, based on her previous banking and finance experience, for the cost the Village spent on postage, an online/ ACH system could be implemented to access utility bills and online payment. These missed utility bills had become so prevalent for her that she spoke to the local post office and was advised by them that the best remedy for missed mail was to rent a PO box for an annual fee of $72, which was a cost she did not feel she should have to shoulder. “It’s the 21st century, and it’s convenient,” she stated. In closing, Mrs. Trower shared her list of positives and negatives for implementing her suggestion with the board, closing with, “Jeff and I did not come to this meeting this evening to create disruptions, but to bring this issue to your attention. It’s just been such a problem to monitor and get our water bill…. We look forward to hearing your decision concerning this issue.”
Read More50th annual Spring Rendezvous a blast
•April 29, 2026•

The National Anthem was beautifully performed by Jill Deters.
by DM Williamee
The Prairieland Frontiersman’s 50th Annual Spring Rendezvous, held on April 24th-26th at the Prairieland Frontiersman Club Grounds in Sullivan, resulted in a packed campground enjoying both the event and the perfect weather on Saturday. This year’s celebration commemorated both the 50th Spring Rendezvous and the 250th birthday of the United States.
Read MoreSullivan Royalty

Photo Submitted
SHS Prom court:(L to R): Front Row - King - Owen Smith, Queen - Kate Bushue, Back Row - Devon Richardson, 2025 King Lucas Floyd, Carter Thurston, Johnathon Iacobazzi, Riane Bear, Caden Saul, James Feldkamp, Eiley Poe, Emily Crosier, and 2025 Queen Katilyn Kirby.
Agri-Fab donates to Regional Cancer Center expansion
•April 15, 2026•

Agri-Fab of Sullivan has donated $30,000 to the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Foundation’s Expanding Hope Campaign to support the expansion of the Regional Cancer Center. “This donation ties into our values,” said Deacon Patient, President of Agri-Fab. “At Agri-Fab, we are all about community, and this Cancer Center is important to our community. We all know someone who has been affected by cancer. I am personally inspired by these three employees who have battled cancer at Sarah Bush Lincoln.”
Read MoreActor Shawn Woods speaks on ‘Loving Yourself’
•February 25, 2026•

Actor Shawn Woods shares his insights into recovery and self-love with those in attendance.
by DM Williamee
On Friday, February 20th, actor Shawn Woods, known for his roles in Charlie’s Angels and Sons of Anarchy, made a special speaking appearance at the invitation of Moultrie County’s ROSC and Dove programs at the Mid-Illinois Senior Services Center. The theme was ‘Loving yourself.’ This free, family-friendly event also included treats, as well as provided an opportunity for those in attendance to make their own valentines to themselves, as an expression of self-love. Mr. Woods also provided photo opportunities as well as autographs.
Read MoreSBD 2025–2026 team banquet recap
•April 15, 2026•

On Friday, April 10th, the Sullivan Blue Dolphins hosted their 2025–2026 Team Banquet. All team members were awarded a team medal, recognizing their commitment and achievements throughout the season. The evening also celebrated the contributions of the coaching staff, board members, and swim officials who support the team year-round.
Summer and Winter Regional Championship Teams received certificates for their accomplishments. Additionally, the Summer and Winter State Championships were award their achievements.
Read MoreLady Redskins track picks up big win in Tuscola
•April 29, 2026•
by E. Scott England
It was the 40th annual Tuscola Open for track last Friday. Over 15 teams showed up for a meet known for its fierce competition. When the dust settled, the Lady Redskins walked away with a first place win, edging out Effingham St. Anthony by just a half of a point.
Read MoreSaul commits to Quincy University

Photo by DM Williamee
On April 8th, Sullivan High School student Caden Saul signed his letter of intent to attend Quincy University and pursue his baseball career, which he selected after visiting the campus and community. He is most looking forward to immersing himself in the college experience and all that entails. Caden plans to study Marketing, and his advice to his peers and those who come after was simple, “Enjoy and make the most out of it, and the rest will follow.” Pictured L-R: father Brian Saul, Caden Saul, and mother, Amber Saul.
Obituaries 4-29-2026:
Gene Dolan

Gene Dolan, 82, of Sullivan, passed away 5:42 p.m. Monday, April 20, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in O’Fallon, IL.
Read More
