•April 16, 2025•
All dogs are invited to the 2025 MCAC dog show, which will be held on June 21st at 1:30 p.m., at the Main Stage at Crowder Park in Bethany. The cost is $10.00 per dog event or $50.00 for all events.
Read MoreCategory Archives: News Briefs
Warm up one spoonful at a time
•April 16, 2025•
People who live in cold climates understand that it can sometimes be challenging to warm up after a day spent combatting snow, wind or freezing rain. Luckily, eating hot soup is a very effective means to returning the body to a less-chilled temperature. Soup also tends to be easily digested and nutrient-dense, making it an ideal meal at any time.
This recipe for “Sweet Potato and Peanut Soup” from “The Culinary Institute of America Book of Soups” (Lebhar-Friedman Books) by The Culinary Institute of America is thick, creamy and full of savory flavor.
Sweet Potato and Peanut Soup
Makes 8 servings
Read MoreProtecting your heart when you have diabetes
•April 16, 2025•
by Cheri Burcham
Extension Educator
University of Illinois Extension
I wanted to share this article from Illinois Extension Educator Diane Reinhold about heart disease and diabetes. Diane says, “Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for approximately 1 in 5 deaths annually. Heart disease is a general term that encompasses various conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels and includes conditions such as arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, and heart failure.” Did you know people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease compared to those without diabetes? In fact, the longer someone has diabetes, the higher their risk of developing heart disease.
Read MoreIDPH rolls out measles simulator dashboard
Empowering schools to protect students, staff from outbreaks
•April 16, 2025•
With cases of measles being reported in more than 20 jurisdictions around the United States, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has unveiled a new data dashboard to help school officials and members of the public assess the potential severity of any outbreaks of measles, should one occur in Illinois. The new Measles Outbreak Simulator Dashboard (https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/immunization/coverage-dashboards/measles-outbreak-simulator-dashboard.html) makes it easy for the public to find out the measles vaccination rate in any school in Illinois, public or private, and to determine the risk of a child being exposed to measles if a case is introduced in their school.
Read MoreBethany Celebration
Community event has something for everyone
•April 16, 2025•
Friday, June 20th: 5:00 p.m., opening ceremonies, vendors and inflatables, touch-a-truck, kids craft corner, and Princess meet-and-greet/crown decorating. 5:15 p.m., Sullivan Dance Studio performance. 6:00 Battle Creek Band (main stage). 6:30 “Tot Rod” pedal pulls. 8:00 Brushville-beer tent.
Saturday, June 21st: 8:00 a.m., softball tournament. “Tails and Trails” 5k. 10:30, Parade. 11:00, vendors and inflatables, Mud Volleyball, Kids Games, “Sally the Clown”-balloon animals and face painting. 11:30, Aikman’s Animal meet and greet. 1:00 p.m., Car Show. 1:30 p.m. MCAC Dog Show. 2:00 Bags tournament in beer tent (16+ to enter). 4:00 Magic show by Sally the Clown. 5:30, “Night Moves” with Ed Webb (main stage). 9:15, fireworks. 8:00 Nashville artist Ryan Spencer beer tent (21+)
Read MoreLTOTS and Stephens receive award
•April 16, 2025•
The Experience Champaign-Urbana Foundation celebrated the hospitality industry during their annual “Toast to Tourism: Celebrating Community Brilliance”, held on Wednesday, May 7th. During this annual event, they honored local tourism ambassadors whose efforts have paved the way for tourism to the greater Champaign-Urbana area or enhanced the visitor experience with our Brilliant Spirit Awards.
Read MoreCodeRED: Mo. Co.’s emergency alert system
Stay informed of severe weather
•April 16, 2025•
by Angela Hogan
What Is CodeRED?
CodeRED is a free, secure emergency alert system. The Moultrie County Emergency Services Disaster Agency (ESDA) coordinates this vital service. It enables residents and businesses to receive alerts specific to their addresses via phone call, text message, or email, whichever you choose.
This system ensures that when dangerous weather or local emergencies occur, people are warned quickly and clearly based on the exact physical location of their property.
Read MoreSHS Art Show winners
Talents of budding artists showcased
•April 16, 2025•
The 2025 Sullivan High School art show was a huge success. The 2025 Art Show Award Winners are as follows:
3D Artwork Honors Art: Best in Category: Madison Flexser, 1st Place; Samantha Davison, 2nd Place; Kelsie Hodge, 3rd Place: Charliegh Tripp.
Art III: Best in Category: Jade McKee, 1st Place; Keylee Jean, 2nd Place; Kikyo Brent, 3rd Place: Alivia Tippit
Read MoreManaging concerns about falls
Catholic Charities offering class
•April 16, 2025•
Have you turned down a chance to go out with family or friends because you were concerned about falling? Have you cut down on a favorite activity because you might fall? If so, Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns about Falls is a program for you.
Fear of falling can be just as dangerous as falling itself. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in severe physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. Many older adults also experience increased isolation and depression when they limit their interactions with family and friends. A “Matter of Balance” can help people improve their quality of life and remain independent.
Read MoreLLC recognizes honor students at banquet
•April 16, 2025•
Lake Land College Honors students, presidential scholars, and members of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honors Society were recently recognized at a banquet on campus. During the event, Deanna Clark, Bethany, was named Honors Student of the Year.
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