•April 15, 2020•
In 11 days the Sullivan Area Ministerial Association exceeded the $20,000 goal to help those in the community suffering financially due to the COVID-19 crisis.
At the Sullivan City Council meeting April 13, city administrator Dan Flannell announced the SAMA drive had reached the goal that afternoon.
“This effort was made for those most in need throughout the county,” Flannell said of the SAMA drive. “No gift is too large or small.” he continued, noting funds were still being collected.
Pastor Grant Wade of Sullivan First Christian Church explained during the emergency Stay at Home orders there are people with immediate financial needs with few resources to help.
SAMA traditionally meets those emergency needs on a regular basis, but these are not regular times and the needs are greater that ever.
“We just passed $20,000 yesterday.” Wade said.
“The generosity of local individuals and businesses is incredible. Donations are still being received. We are working on getting our website updated for those who need assistance.
“We are requesting anyone who needs assistance to reach out as we want to be able to help!” Pastor Dave Dolan emphasized.
Pastor Dave Dolan at New Life Church is coordinating the effort and may be reached at 217-728-4200 or visit http://mocohelp.com/
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Menu 4-15-2020
Sr. Peace Meal
Monday, April 20 - Sloppy Joe sandwich, brussels sprouts, scalloped corn, bun, apple slices
Tuesday, April 21 - Focaccia chicken breast, potato casserole, seasoned greens, Texas toast, tropical fruit
Wednesday, April 22 - Ham and beans, copper carrots, cornbread, sliced pears
Thursday, April 23 - Meatloaf, mashed potatoes w/gravy, broccoli, whole grain wheat, pineapple tidbits
Friday, April 24 - Chicken salad, tortellini vegetable soup, creamy cole slaw, assorted crackers, fruit salad
Create Colorful Easter Eggs
•April 8, 2020•
Explore various Easter egg coloring techniques this season.
Beautifully colored Easter eggs are a beloved holiday tradition. In many cultures, eggs represent new life, fertility and rebirth. For Christians, the Easter egg is symbolic of the resurrection, or the eternal life, of Jesus Christ. The practice of coloring eggs and offering them as decorative items is embraced during both secular and religious Easter celebrations.
Many fond memories and traditions are tied to Easter egg coloring, and some people may have their preferential kits or practices to achieve beautiful eggs. But embracing some new tips and tricks can produce beautiful eggs and make this beloved tradition even more fun. Read More
Shimkus Moving Art Competition Online
•April 8, 2020•
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-15) has adjusted the submission guidelines for his 2020 Congressional Art Competition.
Entries for the contest, which is open to high school students in the 15th Congressional District of Illinois, are still due by May 4. However, artwork no longer should be delivered to one of Shimkus’ offices; instead, competitors are instructed to take high-resolution photos of their projects and submit them via email to Kristen.Shull@mail.house.gov. Read More
Top IPA Award

File photo by R.R. Best
Top IPA Award
Moultrie County News Progress photographer Robert R. Best was awarded First Place in the Illinois Press Association 2019 contest. Best’s first place photograph was for Class 20 Spot News Photo in Division A. The photograph of the aftermath of the explosion of the Larry Schrock home in rural Sullivan showed fire fighters and police risking life and health in search of the lone survivor of the Feb. 1, 2019 fire. Illinois Press notified Best of the award April 1 with official presentation made during the IPA Convention October 22-23, 2020.
MCH&G Closed
•April 8, 2020•
The Moultrie County Historical and Genealogical Society will be closed until further notice.
When we can safely open again watch your paper for a further notice. Until then be safe, be well and take care of each other.
Sixth Judicial Circuit Extends Emergency Order
•April 8, 2020•
The emergency administrative order for the Sixth Judicial Circuit (Champaign, Macon, Dewitt, Piatt, Moultrie, Douglas coutnies) has been extended to April 30, 2020.
Karle Koritz, Chief Judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit issued the order on April 2 following announcements from President Donald Trump and Gov. J.B. Pritzker.
WHEREAS, 6th Circuit Administrative Order 2020-01, entered on March 20, 2020, restricted courthouse operations and placed limitations on the types of cases to be heard through April 10, 2020; Read More
SS Recipients will get Economic Impact Payments
•April 8, 2020•
“I want to provide an update to people who receive benefits from the Social Security Administration,” Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul said of the COVID-19 economic impact payments.
The Department of the Treasury (Treasury) announced on April 1 that Social Security beneficiaries who are not typically required to file tax returns will not need to file an abbreviated tax return to receive an economic impact payment. The IRS will use the information on the Form SSA-1099 to generate $1,200 economic impact payments to Social Security beneficiaries who did not file tax returns in 2018 or 2019. Read More
Obituaries 4-8-2020: Jack Wheeler
Jack Wheeler
Jack Wheeler, Sr., 85, of Bethany, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2020, at his home in Bethany.
Private family services will be held. A celebration of life memorial service for the public will be held at a later date. McMullin-Young Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Read More
Obituaries 4-8-2020: R. Wayne Smith
R. Wayne Smith
R. Wayne Smith, 90, of Sullivan, formerly of Bethany, passed away at 3:57 p.m. Sunday, April 5, 2020, in St. Mary’s Hospital in Decatur.
Private family services will be held Thursday, April 9. Burial will be in Marrowbone Twp. Cemetery in Bethany. Reed Funeral Home in Sullivan is in charge of arrangements. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Read More
