Category Archives: free news stories

Open house at Sweet Vail Café

News Progress Posted on by

•February 26, 2025•

The Sullivan Area Ministerial Alliance (SAMA) invites the entire community to a special Open House at Sweet Vail Café on Monday, March 3, from 5-7 p.m.

This gathering is an opportunity for neighbors to come together, enjoy light snacks, and connect in a spirit of faith and fellowship. Whether you are new to the area or a longtime resident, SAMA welcomes you to stop by, meet local Pastors, and learn more about how we can strengthen our community together.

“We believe that building a strong, compassionate community starts with meaningful connections,” said a SAMA representative. “This event is a simple way to bring people together in a warm and welcoming space.”

All are encouraged to attend and be part of this time of fellowship and encouragement. There is no cost to attend, and all are welcome.

Shrove Tuesday pancake breakfast

News Progress Posted on by

•February 26, 2025•

Tuesday, March 4th is the final day of Mardi Gras, also known as Shrove Tuesday, and the Sullivan First United Methodist Church is throwing a free party.

Historically, Shrove Tuesday is a day to feast on pancakes before the Season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. 

You are invited to enjoy the festive music and delicious pancakes with sausage-free of charge- from 5:30-7:00 p.m. on March 4th at the church, located across the street from the Sullivan fire station. 

LWWC community event

News Progress Posted on by

•February 26, 2025•

The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation will have guest speaker, Natalie Beck, sharing the mission of the organization and its resources on March 4th at 6:00 p.m. in the Lovington Community Building, with a free dinner included. 

The event, brought to the community by the Lovington Working Women’s Collective, will provide resources to improve the quality of life for all residents of the Lovington community.

For more information, contact Jamie Franklin at (217) 972-2001.

Mediacom offers $60,000 in scholarships

News Progress Posted on by

•February 19, 2025•

Mediacom Communications is offering $60,000 in scholarship support for high school seniors who plan to obtain further education. The scholarship program is in its 24th consecutive year and Mediacom’s investment will award $1,000 World Class Scholarships to 60 high school seniors.  

Starting in the fall of 2025, scholarship recipients have the flexibility to use the financial awards to support post-secondary college costs or vocational training from an accredited institution. Award selection is based on academic achievement and leadership accomplishments.

This year, Mediacom’s World Class Scholarship application process has fully transitioned online: mediacomworldclass.com. Applications, including recommendation letters and high school transcripts, will now be submitted online. Information has been sent to all high schools in areas where Mediacom delivers its high-speed internet services. High school officials are asked to encourage seniors to submit online applications before the March 14, 2025 deadline.  

“Our corporate philosophy extends beyond business success - we’re dedicated to nurturing the potential of young minds, believing that investing in student development is an investment in our collective future,” said Tapan Dandnaik, Mediacom’s SVP of Operations, Product Strategy and Consumer Experience.

Applicants do not have to be Mediacom customers but must live in the 22-state area served by Mediacom’s fiber-rich broadband network. The online application includes a complete list of communities in Mediacom service areas. Inquiries may be sent to scholarship@mediacomcc.com.

“Communicating with those who have Dementia”

News Progress Posted on by

•February 19, 2025•

The Arthur Public Library will present “Communicating With Those Who Have Dementia”, hosted by Cheri Burcham and the University of  Illinois Extension, on March 1st at 1:00. Come and learn about communication problems caused by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, and strategies for better interactions and visits. You do not need to live in Arthur to participate but as seating is limited, call the Arthur Public Library at (217) 543-2037 to reserve your seat.

Scholarship applications available

News Progress Posted on by

•February 19, 2025•

Applications are now available for the 2025 Irrevocable Scholarship Program available through the Sullivan American Legion Post 68. The one year $1,500 (four year, annually renewable) scholarship is for high school seniors who will be graduating from public high schools in Moultrie County and high school seniors that are descendants of members in good standing of the Sullivan Post 68.

The application packet is available from high school counselors at Okaw Valley High School in Bethany and the Sullivan High School. Students may also contact the Sullivan American Legion at (217) 728-4612 or Michael Keown, Secretary Irrevocable Scholarship Trust, (217) 855-1949 to request that an application be mailed or forwarded to them.

Quarter Madness rescheduled

News Progress Posted on by

•February 12, 2025•

This month’s Quarter Madness at the Sullivan American Legion Post #68 has been moved from Wednesday, February 12 to February 19. 

The Heritage Woods  Activity Department will remain the Organization of the Month. Doors open at 6:00 and the Quarter Auction will begin at 6:30.

 See more information on our Facebook page “Mo Co Monthly Quarter Madness.”

Adult Prom

News Progress Posted on by

•February 12, 2025•

Mark your calendars, get those dresses and prepare to have a great time all while raising awareness and supporting Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network. The Sullivan Adult Prom will be held March 29 at the Sullivan American Legion. The theme chosen for this year is Casino Night. 

All proceeds go to the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network. Message facebook.com/MCDownSyndromeAware for tickets. Brought to you by the Moultrie County Down Syndrome Awreness Committee.

Win Expo/Vendor Fair

News Progress Posted on by

•February 12, 2025•

The Sullivan American Legion Auxiliary is hosting their annual Wine Expo/Vendor Fair fundraiser on Sunday Feb. 16th from 1-4 at the Sullivan Legion.

There will be four wineries in attendance offering wine tasting and a variety of vendors. In addition, there will be some very talented artisans offering their works as well as boutiques, direct sales and cookies. Food will be available for purchase provided by the American Legion.

Entrance fee is $5 which includes wine tasting.