•June 24, 2026•

The class of 2026 Farm Credit agriculture scholars was recognized during a scholarship luncheon at Carriage House Event Center in Altamont, Thursday, May 21st. A total of $75,000 of scholarships was awarded to 30 high school seniors. Each scholar receives $2,500 from FCI to pursue a degree within the field of agriculture. 25 of the students attended the recognition program. This marks the 22nd year of the Farm Credit Agriculture Scholarship Program, which has awarded over $938,500 to 566 students in central and southern Illinois since 2004. Scholarship selections are based on participation and leadership contributions within school and community organizations, a genuine passion for farming and/or agriculture, and a commitment to pursuing an agriculture-related career.

Who Was General Sullivan?
•June 24, 2026•

by Janet Roney

Sometimes the less we know about the past, the better off we are. That may be the case with General John Sullivan from New Hampshire, our county seat’s namesake according to John A. Freeland. Freeland suggested his name back in 1844 when they were locating and naming the new county seat. So, what’s my problem with General Sullivan?

•June 24, 2026•

Do you want to honor an American hero for the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America?

The Sullivan American Legion Auxiliary and the East Central Illinois Red Cross Club will be selling “American Hero” yard signs for $20. The signs have an American Flag, the words “American Hero” and “America’s 250th Anniversary,” and space for personalization. A stand will also be provided.

The signs are currently available at the Sullivan American Legion or may be reserved by emailing Becky Lawson (missrebeccalawson64@gmail.com) or Tina Bolsen (tmbcookielee@gmail.com ). People who purchase signs which they personalize to honor military veterans, current members of the military, and/or first responders may participate with members of the Sullivan Auxiliary in Sullivan’s 4th of July parade. Email Lawson or Bolsen for further details.

•June 24, 2026•

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for the State Pheasant Fund Special Funds and the Illinois Habitat Fund Special Funds Grant programs from July 1st through August 1st. The pheasant habitat and wildlife habitat programs enhance the natural environment for pheasant and wildlife through projects developed by not-for-profit organizations and governmental entities for conservation. Funding for the State Pheasant Fund, Special Funds, and the Illinois Habitat Fund, Special Wildlife Funds grants comes from the sale of habitat stamps to sportsmen and sportswomen. Applicants must register and be current in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act portal. Applications must be submitted online. For additional information, email susan.duke@illinois.gov. View additional state funding opportunities by visiting the Illinois Catalog of Financial Assistance online.