•October 21, 2026•

The Moultrie County Historical and Genealogical Society will host its annual dinner on Thursday, November 19th at the Moultrie County History Center, 1303 South Hamilton, Sullivan. This year’s event will celebrate the Village of Bethany’s music heritage, highlighting the quality and diversity of the music programs that shaped Bethany’s local, state, and national recognition over the past 150 years.

Starting at 6:00 p.m., guests can enjoy a paid buffet dinner provided by Judy’s Kitchen and Catering. Dinner tickets are $25 each. As limited seating is available for dinner, reservations must be received by MCHGS no later than noon on Thursday, November 12th and can be made by calling (217) 728-4085. During the dinner hour, guest pianist Julie McClarey-Smith will “tickle the keys” with music selections of the era.

Starting at 7:00 p.m., dinner guests as well as the general public can enjoy a free performance and history retrospective showcasing Bethany’s lauded music heritage. All guests will join Jack Scott as he strolls down memory lane back to 1877 when Bethany was first incorporated and the first band was organized. Sam Scott will then share the story of Bethany’s opera house. Local music directors Doug McCausland and Jack Rogers along with students Allen Webner and Ellen Ferrara will share the impact of the community’s musical heritage in their personal lives. Lastly, Jack Scott and Julie McClarey-Smith will close out the evening with some additional entertainment.

•October 21, 2026•

Okaw Valley High School will be the sight of a Haunted House on October 23 and 24. A kid friendly hour will be held from 6:00-7:00p.m. before the lights go out from 7:00-9:00 p.m. for a darker, scarier experience. Admission is $8.00 per ticket.

•October 14, 2026•

The Bethany Advocates and Support Organization (BASO) will host Safe Trick or Treat on Main Street in Bethany Saturday, October 31. The Halloween adventure for the whole family will feature treat station, mini games and the OV PTO costume parade from 4:00-6:00 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the event will move to the OV Elementary School.

•October 14, 2026•

Okaw Valley Community Unit School District invites all Veterans and their family members to a Veterans Day program at Okaw Valley High School in Bethany on Wednesday, November 11th. A breakfast will be provided to all who attend beginning at 8:15 a.m. in the cafeteria and a short assembly will follow at 9:15 a.m. The assembly will feature the Okaw Valley School District band and chorus students, and keynote speaker. 

The students and staff at Okaw Valley thank all Veterans for their acts of courage and devotion to the ideals that have served to guide our nation. We would be honored if you could join us to pay tribute to all the brave men and women who have admirably served our country. 

If you will be able to attend, call 665-3232 for a reservation. 

•October 7, 2026•

Moultrie County Monthly Quarter Madness will hold their October Quarter Auction on Wednesday, October 14. The event will be held at the Sullivan American Legion. Sullivan Lions Club will be the organization of the month. Since 1941, Sullivan Lions Club, an affiliate of Lions International, has been committed to helping residents with vision and hearing services, hunger, and youth needs. Their club is known for their annual Turkey Party held in November (this year on Friday, November 13). Funds raised during this event and others are given back in the community in various ways.

Come shop the many vendors and stay for the Quarter Auction. Bring your quarters for charity items and extra bidding. All-In-Paddle will be $20. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the Quarter Auction begins at 6:30 p.m. All ages are welcome to attend. Highway Heartburn will have food for sale in the parking lot. There will also be a Bake Sale to benefit the Lions Club. Drink purchases can be made through the Legion as well. For more information visit “Mo Co Monthly Quarter Madness” Facebook page.