•July 4, 2018•

It’s that time of year when the temperature goes up and heat and humidity, which can be deadly, make being outdoors very uncomfortable.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 600 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. The American Red Cross has steps you can take to help stay safe when the temperatures soar.
“It’s important for everyone to realize that warm weather can be dangerous,” said Lyn Hruska, Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross Central and Southern Illinois Region. “The Red Cross has steps you can follow to make sure you and your loved ones are protected when hot weather hits your area.”
Heat Safety Tips
Some people are more at risk of developing a heat-related illness, including adults age 65 and older, those with chronic medical conditions, people who work outside, infants and children and athletes. Here are steps which should be taken in hot weather:
• Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Read More

25 Years Ago This Week

The Little Theatre on the square opens its second production of the summer season, Caberet. It’s a love story built on the political upheaval of 1930s Berlin. Sally Bowles and Michael Hawes will star in the show.
Bethany school district hired two new teachers. Geri Atherton will teach language arts and art. The kindergarten enrollment is high so the board hired Amy Blank as a second teacher.
The Rev. John E. Sohm is returning to St. Columcille Parish in Sullivan and will also pastor at St. Isidore in Bethany. Sohm succeeds Father Joseph Simburger who began serving the Archdiocese for Military Services as a Navy chaplain.
Nellie Best, mother of Robert E. Best, passed away in her daughter’s home in Poplar Bluff, Mo. at the age of 83. She was a lifelong resident of Farmington Mo. She married Ellis John Best Aug 23,1930. He preceded her in death in 1947. She had three children, Robert of Sullivan, Edward of Martinez, California and Ann of Poplar Bluff, Mo. Read More

•July 4, 2018•

By Gerald Tilley
Social Security District Manager

On July 4, people in communities everywhere celebrate our nation’s independence with neighbors, family, and friends. A strong community promotes independence by helping each other lead full and productive lives.
Social Security has been helping people maintain a higher quality of life and a level of independence for over 80 years. Over those decades, we’ve made it even easier for you to access the programs and benefits you might need. Now, applying online is the fastest way to get those crucial benefits.
Here are some the types of benefits you can apply for:
• Retirement or Spouse’s Benefits – You must be at least 61 years and 9 months old and want your benefits to start no more than four months in the future. Apply at www.socialsecurity.gov/retireonline. Read More