•November 11, 2015•

As winter approaches, the library staff would like to remind patrons that certain circumstances may dictate that the library close for the safety of our patrons as well as the staff.

Power failure, heating system failure, snowfall of 6 inches or more, blizzard conditions, hazardous icing conditions, or a police advisory are just a few of the circumstances that may require closing the library.

When closure becomes necessary,local radio stations (Decatur WEJT 105.1FM or WDZ 1050AM) are notified.

If a patron is unsure of the status of the library, they are encouraged to call the library at 728-7221.

•November 6, 2015•

A motion to move the trial of Michael S. Yost out of Moultrie County was denied  by the Hon. Judge Dan L. Flannell Friday, November 6.

Yost, 40, of Sullivan is charged with the March 4, 2015 murder of Sheri L. Randall, 43.

Public Defender Bradford Rau called NewsProgress Publisher Robert R. Best for testimony illustrating how high profile the case was. Best told the court the News Progress website hits were 2,2562,979 during the publications including information on the Randall murder. He noted the average hit range is between 400,000 and 600,000.

States Attorney Jeremy Richey’s office commissioned a survey that revealed 48% of those surveyed had no knowledge of the case.

Rau pointed out that of those who knew about the case 98% said they believed the defendant was guilty.

Also reviewed was an anonymous letter from a former juror who was surveyed. It was an appeal for a guilty verdict in the case.

“In my 27 years we have been successful in finding impartial jurors; the process will determine if there is a need to move to another county,”  Judge Flannell said.

Following the decision Richey and Rau agreed to a trial ready meeting at 1:30 p.m. Monday November 30.

•November 4, 2015•

The Sullivan American Legion Post 68 and the American Red Cross are sponsoring a blood drive noon-6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov 10 in the legion hall.

During the holidays blood donations are critical. Walk ins are welcomed, but an appointment reduces wait time and ensures adequate Red Cross staff is available.

To make an appointment or for questions call Jeri Davis at 273-9456.

•November 4, 2015•

Sullivan High School  will have a Veterans Day program at 10:30 a.m. November 11 in the high school gym.

A reception will follow. All veterans are encouraged to attend, and an RSVP to Rebecca Lawson at the email provided to lawsonr@sullivan.k12.il.us or to 728-8311 would be appreciated.

The event is being staged by Lawson’s Career English class for the high school and middle school.

It immediately follows the event held at the elementary school.

•November 4, 2015•

In the recent Oktoberfest report grand champion of the Artoberfest contest  Ron Bartanen of Sullivan was not included among the original contest winners.