December 10, 2014

Bethany quarter auctions make for fun philanthropy

by Ariana Cherry
Reporting in Bethany

A quarter may just be a mere 25 cents, but over time, it can add up.
And for Noelle Yeakel, she came to possess the good sense that she could make a difference for Bethany and surrounding organizations by holding quarter auctions which started this past August.
“So far, we have raised over $1,000 for charities in the area. I have had experience with quarter auctions for the past two years, and I felt there was a need in Bethany so I decided to start having the auctions. Everyone has a lot of fun, and they really get into it,” she said. Read More

November 26, 2014

CARF International announced that Moultrie County Counseling Center has been accredited for a period of three years for its Outpatient Mental Health Programs for adults, adolescents and children.
Accreditation demonstrates to customers that this organization is committed to reducing risk, addressing health and safety concerns, respecting cultural and individual preferences, and providing the best possible quality of care. Read More

Photo by Keith Stewart
Devon Flesor Story, part owner of Flesor’s Candy Kitchen in Tuscola, stands with an abundance of treats in her arms, all of which and more will be featured at this Saturday’s candy sale in Sullivan.

November 19, 2014

Another custom-made candy for Sullivan featured at annual fundraiser

by Keith Stewart
keith@newsprogress.com

Devon Flesor Story is beginning to spoil Sullivan rotten–almost literally.

The candy maker and part owner of Flesor’s Candy Kitchen in Tuscola will be debuting yet another custom-made candy in honor of the lakeside community at the third annual candy sale this coming Saturday at Cathrine’s Gallery, Gifts, and More, with 20 percent of the proceeds once again going to the Moultrie County Food Pantry.

“Every year we’re getting to know the Sullivan customer better,” said Flesor Story, “so we’re responding to our client base by trying to fashion our sale with the taste of Sullivan people in mind.”

Last year the Tuscola candy maker debuted Sullivan toffee which included, rather than just walnuts as standard English toffee, a wide variety of nuts including hazelnuts, pecans, and almonds. It was then covered in chocolate and sprinkled with yet more nuts. Read More

Photo by RR Best
New Life members Lester Todd (right) and Sherry Smith (left) restocks shelves Friday morning at the ministry center.

Thrift store now selling items 50 cents or less

by Ariana Cherry
Arthur/Sullivan Reporter

At one point or another, an individual or family may find themselves down on their luck. But it is places such as the New Life Ministry Center in Sullivan whose goal is to be “a place where the needy and broken come to find security, faith, and hope in a life giving atmosphere,” that can help lift one’s spirit.

“For 27 years, my mom and dad ran the ministry. They gave about 1.7 million pounds of food and a million and a half of clothing items. My parents were the ones who have overseen it this far,” explained Dave Dolan, pastor of New Life Church of Sullivan. “Today, we have about 25 volunteers and they do incredible. We try to fulfill the needs of everyone who walks through the door,” he added. Read More

Photo by Keith Stewart
Elizabeth Titus Memorial Library children’s librarian Michelle Nolen balances the hot plate of the 3D printer before printing a bookmark Friday.

November 12, 2014

Hope adults as well as children will use new technology

by Ariana Cherry
Arthur/Sullivan Reporter

Keeping up with technology is integral to any business, community organization or school. It is what builds futures by providing education, new ideas, and opportunities. When the Elizabeth Titus Memorial Library purchased a 3-D printer, they had these ideas all in mind.

“It will put us on the same level with larger libraries as far as technology goes, “ said director, Clem Uptmor. Read More