•June 14, 2023•
The 2023 Freedom Celebration Parade will take place this year in Arthur on Saturday, July 1 starting at 2:00 p.m.
“A Star-Spangled Hometown Salute” is the theme for the 29th annual parade.
Individuals, organizations, churches, and businesses interested in participating in the parade should call Stephanie Wierman at 217-620-7460 to request a form or stop by the Welcome Center at 106 E. Progress to pick up a form. Read More
Category Archives: News Briefs
Menu 6-14-2023
Senior Peace Meal
For additional information or for reservations, please call 1-800-543-1770
June 19 - Chili, Cheese Salad, Mandarin Oranges, Tomato Salad, Bread & Crackers
June 20 - Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Green Bean Casserole, Coleslaw, Roll
June 21 - Turkey Pot Roast, Baby Bakers, Peas & Pearl Onions, Bread, Dessert
June 22 - Goulash, Mixed Greens, Corn Fruit
June 23 - Peppered Beef over Brown Rice, Glazed Carrots, Buttered Hominy , Fruit
Remember When? 6-14-2023
25 Years Ago This Week
Lovington Hall of Fame and Citizen of the Year award winners, the late Eva Buxton and the Rev. Kevin Ray, were announced following a talent show at Lovington’s June Fest. Buxton was inducted into the Lovington Hall of Fame. Ray was announced as Citizen of the Year. Alicia Strode and Marissa Bolsen were named Little Miss Lovington and Miss Lovington during the event. Read More
Gov. Pritzker Signs Bill Making Illinois First State in the Nation to Outlaw Book Bans
•June 14, 2023•
Governor JB Pritzker was joined by Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, advocates, and lawmakers today at the Harold Washington Library to sign legislation outlawing book bans in Illinois. This nation-leading legislation comes in the wake of a nationwide rise in extremists targeting literature, libraries, and books in an effort to censor the material students need to thrive in the classroom. Targeted books cover a wide range of categories and predominantly consists of stories by and about People of Color and the LGBTQ+ community. Read More
Senior Heifer Calf Champion

Photo by Next Level Images
Senior Heifer Calf Champion
Kramers Nellie 1253 won senior heifer calf champion at the 2023 Atlantic National Super Point Roll of Victory (ROV) Angus Show, May 28 in Timonium, Md. Quentin Day, Lovington, owns the winning heifer.
HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital Introduces Advanced Surgical Technology to Eliminate Cataracts
•June 14, 2023•
Cataracts effect more than 24 million people over the age of 40 in the United States according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital is addressing the growing need for improved eye care by establishing advanced ophthalmological surgical services here in Decatur.
St. Mary’s Hospital is the first in the region to use the LenSx® Laser featuring ASCEND Technology to perform cataract surgeries. This system uses advanced laser technology for enhanced precision and increased efficiency.
“A cataract is something we can take care of surgically as soon as it starts to bother you in your daily life,” said Dr. Kenneth Farr, ophthalmological surgeon. “Once we complete the surgery, your cataracts are gone for good.” Read More
Facts for Families: Spring into food savings
•June 14, 2023•
By Cheri Burcham, Family Life Educator
I’m sure you have all noticed that prices seem to be up on everything - including food! Extension educator Jamie Mahlandt recently wrote this article for her blog that addresses how we might be able to at least save a little on food. Jamie says: as food is necessary for everyone, it is an important expense in your regular budget. Some ways to minimize your food expenses may be to keep a list of necessary groceries and stick to the list when shopping. With the option of online grocery ordering that includes pick-up services, you may be able to avoid the temptation of spending on extras that were not part of your plan.
Home Gardening Read More
Dairy Farmers Donate Nearly 10,000 Pounds of Milk to Illinois Food Banks
•June 14, 2023•
Illinois dairy farmers are committed to building up communities experiencing food insecurity. Recognizing the hardships many families are facing, the Illinois Milk Producers Association (IMPA) donated nearly 10,000 pounds of milk, including lactose-free, between two local food banks.
“We know that many families are struggling with food insecurity amid rising prices at the grocery store,” said Don Mackinson, IMPA president. “Everyone deserves access to fresh, nutritious food, which is why Illinois dairy farmers wanted to find a new way to support our communities.” Read More
Multi-County 4-H Horse Show
•June 14, 2023•
On Saturday, June 17 at 9am the Multi-County 4-H Horse Show will be taking place at the Cumberland County Extension Education Building Association Livestock Facility. This new facility is located at 205 S New York St, Toledo. 4-H members showing horses from Coles, Cumberland, and Moultrie-Douglas will be coming together to learn, compete, and have fun during this event. If you will need an accommodation in order to participate, please contact the Coles County Extension Office at 217-345-7034. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital Foundation Establishes Inaugural Golf Outing
•June 14, 2023•
The HSHS Good Shepherd Foundation will host a golf outing at Eagle Creek Golf Course in Findlay on Friday, June 23. All proceeds from the outing will be used to assist Good Shepherd Hospital in the purchase of 3D mammography equipment. Read More
