•December 17, 2025•

Despite cold temps and a fresh snowfall, locals made their way to the Sullivan First United Methodist Church bake sale in Sullivan on December 12th. This annual event has been happening for so long, no one recalls when it first began. This sale has always been scheduled later in the holiday season to provide shoppers with a sweet last-minute gift-giving option as well as help those without time to bake to have the ability to serve fresh-baked holiday favorites to friends and family come Christmas. Patrons had the option of grabbing a take-out container and filling it with an even dozen of their favorite goodies, mix-and-match, and at suggested donation prices. Who doesn’t love options, especially when it comes to baked treats?

Photos by R.R. Best

On Friday, December 5th, Dove, Inc., in collaboration with East Central Illinois ROSC, held a free “Santa’s Little Workshop” event at Mid-Illinois Senior Services in Sullivan. With free food, crafts, activities, hot chocolate, cookie decorating, and warm holiday cheers, the event was enjoyed by many locals. Santa was also present, happily hearing the Christmas list requests of children of all ages.

•December 10, 2025•

by DM Williamee

Nursing and care home fraud is a growing problem that affects vulnerable populations, especially the elderly. It encompasses a diverse range of activities that exploit residents, their families, and the healthcare system. There are multiple types of nursing and care home fraud perpetrated. Here are the most common.

Billing fraud is when providers charge for services that were never rendered or overbill for services actually provided. This is the most common form of fraud in nursing homes, accounting for approximately 30% of reported cases. Kickbacks are when homes engage in illegal arrangements that involve receiving kickbacks for patient referrals or service agreements.

This type of fraud is less common but still significant, representing about 20% of cases. Next, we have resident abuse and neglect. Some caregivers exploit residents through physical, emotional, or financial abuse, which can include stealing personal belongings or financial assets. This form of fraud is responsible for approximately 25% of reported fraud incidents.