For 46 years, University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners have measured success by gardens planted, insects identified, produce harvested, and the millions of hours volunteers have logged by helping others learn to grow.
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Sullivan Dance Studio’s Competition Team members attend convention

•December 11, 2024•
Photo submitted
Sullivan Dance Studio had 25 Competition Dance team members attend Dance Directive Master Classes Tour in St. Charles, Missouri in early November. Those attending were (pictured in no order): Abigail Plank, Gianna Krieger, Knox Weakly, Tiffany Hostetler, Mia Lovett, Natalia Beals, Blair Camp, Alayna Young, Aubree Young, Caroline Hobbs, Elizabeth Plank, Kaylee Hostetler, Mara Inman, Addi Finn, Lexi Yoder, Brinnley Hobbs, Vaeda Spencer, Alayna Ard, Aubrie Payne, Emma Hostetler, Miah Voegel, Adalee Foster, Synthea Doss, and Zoe Lynch.
The members had eight dancers receive an instructor shout out and four received scholarships. Dance Directive Conventions have classes, training and instruction with some of the top teachers and dance professionals from around the country. Those who attended had a chance to attend ballet, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, tap classes and more.
Through their eyes contest
•December 11, 2024•
The Holocaust Education Center is hosting a student competition for 5th to 12th grade students interested in writing, painting or film with an interest in history. In this competition, students will get to show their creativity by learning about a Holocaust victim, resister, rescuer or liberator, through their eyes. Best in show pieces receive $50 student and teacher prize. All submissions and additional information can be found at www.cujf.org/hec. All submissions must be made by January 17th, 2025.
Mid-Illinois Senior Services center December calendar
•December 11, 2024•
Thursday, December 12th: 10am Exercise class, 1pm Caregiver/GRG support group
Friday, December 13th: 1pm Pool tourney
Monday, December 16th: 2pm Crafts with Kathi
Tuesday, December 17th: 10am Exercise class
Read MoreReducing Christmas holiday stress
Safeguard your well-being and enjoy a more peaceful holiday season
•December 11, 2024•
by Angela Hogan
Christmas holidays often promise warmth, joy, and cherished moments with loved ones. However, it can also bring stress, anxiety, and emotional fatigue. High expectations, packed schedules, and financial pressures can create a season of exhaustion.
Why Are the Holidays Stressful?
Read MoreSullivan boys basketball off to even split
•December 11, 2024•
by E. Scott England
The Sullivan Redskins’ basketball team started the season with a 54-40 win over St. Teresa. That was followed by a close loss to Windsor/Stew-Stras by the score of 53-60. The team was back in action last Friday and Saturday against Armstrong and Paris, respectively. They lost to Armstrong (58-78) before evening their record against Paris (63-49).
Cam Watkins returns as a threat from not only behind the arc but from mid-range as well. He had 16 points against WSS, second highest on the team in scoring that game behind Mitchell Hooten. Watkins would also be the second highest scorer against Armstrong with 12 points, all three pointers. James Feldkamp led the team that game with 15 points, including three three’s. It was against Paris that Watkins had a breakout performance. He would score 35 of the teams 63 points. He drained three three’s while going 10 for 12 at the charity stripe.
Read MoreLady Redskins pick up another win before being dealt first loss
•December 11, 2024•
by E. Scott England
Last Thursday, the Lady Redskins traveled to Mattoon riding their five game winning streak. After extending that to six against the Green Wave, they then traveled to Paris for a Saturday matchup where they experienced their first defeat of the season.
Read MoreChristmas light contest
•December 11, 2024•
The Village of Bethany has truly kicked into full gear for Christmas time, announcing the return of the Christmas lights contest, including some placement prizes for competitors. All light displays and fixtures must be ready from December 9th to December 25th, as judges will go around from dusk until 9pm for proper judging. This years prizes are:
Read MoreObituaries 12-11-2024: Karen Sampson

Karen Sampson
Karen L. Sampson, 80, of Sullivan passed away at 8:35 a.m. Wednesday December 4, 2024 in Sullivan Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.
Read MoreObituaries 12-11-2024: Betty Lambdin

Betty Lambdin
Betty Jean Coventry Lambdin, 97, of Sullivan, IL, passed away at 7:45 p.m. Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at Shelbyville Manor, Shelbyville, IL.
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