Four proven strategies to improve food safety this summer

by Angela Hogan

The summer season has begun, offering opportunities for picnics, backyard cookouts, and family gatherings. However, warmer temperatures and outdoor events make food safety especially challenging. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), food poisoning affects approximately one in six Americans each year. Not surprisingly, more foodborne illnesses occur during summer than in other seasons. 

The Moultrie County Health Department (MCHD) encourages you to follow four proven food safety strategies: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. These simple actions can help improve your food safety and reduce your risk of foodborne illness.

Plank and Betts named as recipients

•May 28, 2025•

Submitted by Lou Ann Soper

The SHS Class of 1968 presented the 7th Annual Redskin Achievement Award during the Decision Day program held May 7th.  Wilma Plank, daughter of Clara Plank, was the female recipient, and Keagan Betts, son of Ashley Betts and Damien Lash, was the male recipient. Each recipient received a $300 check, an individual plaque, and their name was engraved on a plaque, which is on display in the SHS trophy case.

2024 Decatur Regional Chamber Awards

•May 21, 2025•

The 2024 Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce Awards, held Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the Country Club of Decatur, was a night to celebrate the individuals, businesses, and organizations that fuel progress and purpose in the region. Among the evening’s most celebrated honorees was Cassie J. Yoder, founder and owner of Cass Concepts: Marketing, Media and Events, who was awarded Entrepreneur of the Year. Her agency, celebrating its 20th year, was also named Small Business of the Year.

“To even be finalists alongside legacy businesses like Brinkoetter Realtors and Staley Credit Union was an honor,” said Yoder. “These organizations have served our community for decades, and it means so much to be recognized in such an inspiring company.”

•May 14, 2025•

by Sharon Barricklow

Public utility costs will be going up for Sullivan residents after the City Council passed several rate increases at their meeting Monday night. 

The council approved a four and one half percent increase in electrical rates on the recommendation of Commissioner Mike Kirk who said wholesale electric rates continued to rise. 

HICF donates machine, students reap rewards

by DM Williamee

On Tuesday, May 6th, the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation (HICF) unveiled a book vending machine at Sullivan Elementary School at 8:00 am. Each year, the HICF funds the book vending machines. This year, Sullivan is one of the schools fortunate to receive one. On hand from HICG were Kaitlyn Farrar and Chastity Casey. Rev. Grant Wade serves as the Moultrie County advisor for HICF and has worked on this project with Leslie Guyot (school principal) and Leah Fleming (school librarian).