•July 24, 2024•

by Sharon Barricklow

On any given Tuesday or Friday morning, a covered shed area south of Arthur is teeming with life. Farmers, both Amish and English, gather together drinking coffee while children run around among large boxes of produce, flower arrangements and other goods. Business owners, some with restaurants, some with grocery stores and some with farmer’s markets, mill about, looking at tomatoes, evaluating zucchini, and getting their bidding cards ready. University of Illinois Extension workers, in their blue shirts with orange “I” logos make lists of available  items. The Arthur Produce Auction is open to anyone, and you never know who is going to show up. 

“There are chain grocery stores and people who own their own farm markets, plus people who are just looking for a good deal on fresh produce,” said Extension worker Penny Hood.  Read More

Photo by Megan Russell. Pictured John Vander Burgh (owner of Vander Burgh Financial Services), his wife Heidi, and their two grandkids, ages 2 and 4 months.

•July 24, 2024•

On Sunday, Bethany had a sweet surprise planned out for any and all. The Green Creamery, a mobile ice cream parlor which supports loving the earth and making the best quality ice cream around, visited and gave out free ice cream as a Vander Burgh Financial Services, LLC customer appreciation event. The crowds were bustling with many groups of families and friends coming and going throughout the two hour event.  Read More

•July 10, 2024•

by Sharon Barricklow

The Sullivan City Council held their first meeting in July Monday night, after moving the date to accommodate the July 4 holiday. In a wide ranging agenda, the council discussed recent successes and potential changes in city services. With the opening of the Splash Pad earlier this month, Commissioner Douglas Shook said the new attraction was busy all the time. “If you haven’t driven through the park to see it you need to,” he said. “If they’re open, they’re busy.”  The council approved a $28,750 fee to Lane Services for completion of the Splash Pad parking lot and Americans with Disabilities Act parking at the sports courts.  During the public comment portion of the meeting, Commissioner MIke Kirk took questions about the recent city wide power outage. Kirk said the original problem was located on the east side of Bethany when an Ameren line had a computer malfunction.  Read More

•July 3, 2024•

by Ariana R Cherry 

On June 29th, Arthur’s Freedom Celebration began on a gloomy note with some intermittent showers. Despite the rain and gloomy forecast, out of town visitors streamed into the charming town, eager to witness the evening’s spectacular show. 

However, a light storm moved in bringing heavier rain, and casting a momentary shadow over the upcoming festivities. But with some answered prayers, the rain subsided by about 1:30 pm, making way for sunshine and humidity to settle in. Despite the heavy humidity, the parade marched on as scheduled showcasing the majestic horses trotting gracefully, followed by veterans, boy scouts, local organizations, young baton dancers, fire trucks and even appearances by Santa Claus and Uncle Sam himself. 

As the parade concluded, Jurgens Park and the surrounding countryside of Arthur filled with people claiming their seats, ready to be captivated by the magnificent firework show - complete with its own soundtrack. The Arthur fireworks proved to be another wonderful success, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating the next Freedom Celebration.

•July 3, 2024•

Lori Kirk, a Sullivan High School and Sullivan Middle School teacher, recently was named a Teacher of Excellence for the Regional Office of Education #11.

“It’s truly humbling to be recognized in this way. I am grateful to be part of the Sullivan Tribe with colleagues and administration that think of students first. I am blessed to be recognized with this incredible honor,” stated Kirk.

She added that “My classroom team consists of two very dedicated paraprofessionals and a group of amazing students. This award motivates me to continue striving for excellence in education.” Read More