•August 30, 2023•

With back-to-school time upon us, the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding taxpayers that they may be able to claim school expenses for their K-12 students on their 2023 Illinois individual income tax returns.

“Teachers and parents both invest a great deal in educational costs, so I encourage them to take advantage of the valuable savings offered through both the Illinois Educational Expense Credit (for parents) and the Instructional Materials and Supply Credit (for teachers),” said IDOR Director David Harris. “It is important that all receipts are saved for qualifying purchases, so they are accessible when it is time to file taxes.” Read More

•August 30, 2023•

by Sarah Hudson Pierce

columnist

Coach Vince Lombardi  said “it’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” 

When I get discouraged I like to think about Norman Vincent Peale, author of The Power of Positive Thinking. The book was first thrown into the trash can by the author, Norman Vincent Peale, who was told by a publisher that his book wasn’t worth publishing. Being discouraged, he told his wife not to retrieve it from the can.

Instead she carried the manuscript, still in the basket, to another publisher, who immediately published it.

The rest is history. Read More

25 Years Ago This Week

Leslie Rodman’s solid all-around performance helped the Bethany-Findlay volleyball team earn its first victory of the season. Rodman finished with four kills, three service aces and one block as the Mustangs downed Cowden-Herrick 13-15,15-2, 15-1. Keri Newman had two kills, Betsy Rowe recorded five aces and Rebecca Brumleve added one block for the Mustangs who evened their record 1-1. 

Sullivan-Bethany recorded a win in football over Normal U 18-15.

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•August 23, 2023•

A Matter of Balance program will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays, October 3 through 26 from 9 to 11 am at the Elizabeth Titus Memorial Library in Sullivan. Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. The program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Participants will learn to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce fall risks at home and exercise to increase strength and balance. Those who should attend is anyone concerned about falls, anyone interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength, anyone who has fallen in the past and anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns. A $20 donation is requested for the program. Light snacks and refreshments are provided. Class size is limited. To register contact Carol Logan at 217-428-3458 ext. 231.

•August 23, 2023•

Extreme heat is expected throughout much of the Illinois region this week and it is important to take action and be prepared to protect yourself and your loved ones. The Red Cross offers the following reminders that help us stay safe when the temperatures soar.

1. Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.

2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Read More