ETML summer reading kickoff
•June 3, 2026•

Lilah Wiltse with her colorful butterfly enjoys her snow cone in the shade.
On May 29th, the Elizabeth Memorial Library kicked off its annual Summer Reading Program, and it was the place to be, where droves of community members, both large and small, were eager to sign up and partake of the opening festivities. On offer were free snow cones and cotton candy, bounce houses, a croquet match-up game with prizes, the ever-popular face painting, and the actual sign-up, which will reward readers with prizes for their summer reading accomplishments. The event was high-energy and filled with kiddos, from tots to teens, enjoying all of the sweet treats and activities, with many leaving with armfuls of books to get their reading off to a stellar start. Inside, many were taking advantage of the computers, games, and play area, with clusters of youngsters passing through all genres and reading sections, especially the new releases.
Read MoreSullivan Street Machine car show
•June 3, 2026•
by DM Williamee

On the afternoon of Saturday, May 23rd, the Sullivan Street Machine Association held its season-opener car show on the Square in Sullivan, whetting auto enthusiasts’ appetites as car show season begins for 2026. While early on it looked as if it might rain, the weather cooperated, and it was not only dry but perfectly temperate, with a nice breeze. Local enthusiasts and club members converged on the square to show off a wide variety of street machines, including classic cars, muscle cars, trucks, golf carts, and anything else proud owners brought down to be admired, whether classic or current. The sun might not have been shining, but the autos on the square were.

Their next events will be the St. Jude’s ‘Dash and Bash’ car show at Wyman Park in Sullivan on Saturday, June 13th, with registration at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 to 1:30 p.m. the car show itself, and awards presented at 2:30 p.m. The event following the ‘Dash and Bash’ will be “Cruise Night on the Square’ on Saturday, September 5th, on Sullivan’s Square. All makes, models, and years will be welcome, and dash plaques will be available for the first 100 registrants. There will also be free popcorn provided by Boy Scout Troop 39, live music by Shovelhead, and door prizes awarded at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call (217) 728-7848 or (217) 273-8487, or visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/SullivanSMA.
Read MoreALAH HS construction prep moves forward
•June 3, 2026•
by Ariana R. Cherry
Construction preparations continue to move quickly at Arthur CUSD #305 as district officials prepare for a summer filled with moving, demolition, and building activity, while also recognizing student accomplishments and community support during the May 20th school board meeting. Superintendent Shannon Cheek told board members construction efforts continue moving in a positive direction, with major project milestones approaching over the next several weeks. “As of right now, pretty positive, pretty positive,” Cheek noted.
One of the next major steps will begin on Tuesday, May 26th, when asbestos removal work starts in portions of the building, including areas around the chorus, band, and weight room spaces, along with additional smaller areas. Cheek said the district’s goal is to continue transitioning spaces as work progresses. Demolition activities are expected to begin on June 8th, with fencing around portions of the building also scheduled to be installed in early June.
Read MorePoppies to honor those who gave all

On Friday, May 22nd, Ruth Keown, Vice-President of the Sullivan American Legion Auxiliary Unit 68, greeted the public at the entrance to the local Post Office, distributing Memorial Poppies. Each year, millions of Americans wear these Memorial Poppies in memory of American service members who lost their lives in war while serving their country, and to assist those Veterans who are now hospitalized or in rehabilitation, suffering from wounds and illnesses. Memorial Day poppies distributed by the American Legion symbolize the ultimate sacrifice made by service members and are a tribute to those who lost their lives in war. Wearing the poppy is a way to honor the fallen and ensure their bravery is never forgotten.
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 MoreIacobazzi state runner up after photo finish
•June 3, 2026•
by E. Scott England
Johnny Iacobazzi has had an amazing running career at Sullivan High School. The speedy senior has found his way to the podium in both solo events and relays at the state track meet. School records have been toppled. But this year he was chasing the 1600m state title.
Read MoreSBD Summer Steam strong finish
•June 3, 2026•

The Sullivan Blue Dolphins kicked off their long course season in Terre Haute at the 2026 Summer Steam Meet with a strong performance. The SBD earned a second-place team finish and crowned four high-point swimmers: Tinley Eads in the 10 and under division, Addy Hendry in the 13–14 division, Nathan Rafferty in the Boys 15 and over division, and Cadence Schmohe in the Girls 15 and over division. The Blue Dolphins now turn their focus to the Capitol City Classic in Springfield as they continue their summer season.
Several area softball athletes receive all-conference nods
•June 3, 2026•
by E. Scott England
Softball has come to a close for the surrounding area teams. With that, the Lincoln Prairie Conference has released its 2026 Softball All-Conference teams. And several athletes from Sullivan, Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond, and Okaw Valley found their way onto the list.
Read MoreObituaries 6-3-2026: James McLaughlin
James McLaughlin

James M. McLaughlin, 81, of Bethany, passed away at 7:00 a.m. Monday, June 1, 2026 in VA Illiana Health Care, Danville.
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