More Big Kitties

•June 18, 2025

by Janet Roney

Cala Sawyer Graham’s story about panthers screaming all night long from the top of the old well at their Half-Way House Inn on the old Charleston Road captivated me, especially after hearing more and more stories about recent cougar sightings in the county like this one from my friend, Sue. 

One early morning in 2005, Sue watched a cougar for two or three minutes as it moved along a deer trail in a wooded area across the road from her house. When it turned so she could see its full length, there was no doubt. Its long tail stretched behind it “in full glory”. Sue lives near where muddy big cat and baby cat footprints were seen on the road. 

•June 18, 2025•

On Wednesday, June 11, Cass Concepts celebrated two decades of creativity, strategy, and community impact with an unforgettable 20th Anniversary Party and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at their downtown Decatur headquarters. With a packed house of clients, community leaders, partners, and friends, the evening captured everything the firm stands for—innovation, connection, and storytelling that moves people.

Photo submitted

The Windsor Stew-Stras High School Bass Fishing Team has brought home the State Championship after two days of intense competition at the IHSA State Tournament. The duo competed against 60 schools from across Illinois at Lake Shelbyville for the win. 

Pictured left to right are junior Myles Verdeyen, coach Pat O’Dell, and junior Hayden Porter. 

•June 18, 2025•

With reports of elder abuse on the rise in Illinois since 2022, Department on Aging Director Mary Killough is reminding community members to learn the warning signs and speak up about suspected abuse of older adults.

“Elder abuse is sadly more common than many people realize, but it is largely preventable,” said IDoA Director Mary Killough. “By understanding what elder abuse is, recognizing the signs, and taking steps to prevent it, we can create safer and more supportive communities for older adults.”