© 2013, John Hartmann
Jeff Waite is seen here receiving his Fire Chief Emeritus Award on October 15.

In light of 30 years of service and beyond, Waite commended

by Barry Featheringill
Sullivan Reporter

Sullivan’s former fire chief, Jeff Waite, may have recently been nominated for the Fire Chief Emeritus Award by the Illinois Fire Chief’s Association, but he certainly didn’t expect to be chosen.

“I didn’t think I had much of a chance. I still sent in my money for my wife Linda and me to attend,” said Waite. “When they called me to tell me that I was to receive the Fire Chief Emeritus Award they told me they had held my check since they knew I was one of the candidates. Our banquet tickets were part of the award.” Read More

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Sullivan school board chairman Steve Poland receives a $3,250 check from SHS class of 58 president Gary Fish at the annual alumni banquet. Since then, more money has been raised, exceeding a total of $4,000.

$3,250 donation to SCEF presented at alumni dinner

by Christina Whitford
Sullivan Reporter

For the Sullivan High School students who walked across the graduation stage in 1958, the passing of time has done nothing to lessen the gratitude they feel for the school and teachers that gave them so much 55 years ago.

“I recall that our teachers always had time to help with educational issues. They were dedicated to their student’s educational success,” class member Gary Fish recalled.

Of the 72 students who made up the class of ‘58, 13 attended the University of Illinois, while many others went on to attend other prestigious schools across the country, and nearly all give much credit for this success to Sullivan High School and the dedication of the teachers they encountered.  Read More

Family pastor elevated to senior pastor

by Barry Featheringill
Sullivan Reporter

Grant Wade

Grant Wade, who for the past three years has been the family pastor at First Christian Church in Sullivan, has been called on to become senior pastor. Pastor Rebecca Ingram resigned after serving seven years to pursue other interests.

Wade and his wife Erin along with their two children Gavin & Emery (plus another boy due in January) have found Sullivan a very friendly community. Erin is a high school math teacher at Sullivan High School. Read More

Last month’s historical meeting helps some get acquainted with long lost shoe company

Barry Featheringill
Sullivan Reporter

In October of 1929 the Brown Shoe Company of St. Louis, Missouri signed an agreement with the city of Sullivan, to build a shoe factory. The facility was to cost $300,000 and the city of Sullivan was to provide $125,000 of that amount, secure the site which was 321 South Hamilton Street, and pay all property taxes for 10 years. Brown Shoe was to have an employee base of approximately 400 and came to have a great relationship with the city of Sullivan for 45 years.

These were the opening remarks by former Brown Shoe employee Gerald Watkins at the Moultrie County Historical Society meeting Thursday September 19. Read More

C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corporation recently showcased their 48th year of accomplishments demonstrating the fact that community action helps people and changes lives. During the 2013 annual meeting, two locals were recognized who had overcome obstacles in obtaining or maintaining self-sufficiency. According to C.E.F.S. Chief Executive Officer Paul White, “This past year our programs and services truly made a real difference in the lives of residents of the community.” Read More