•March 11, 2026•
The Moultrie County Historical and Genealogical Society will present the “History of the Moultrie County Beacon” at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 19th, at the Moultrie County History Center, 1303 South Hamilton, Sullivan.
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4-H youth build confidence and communication skills
•March 11, 2026•
Nearly 75% of individuals report a fear of public speaking, but 22 courageous 4-H youth from Coles, Cumberland, Douglas, Moultrie, and Shelby counties chose to face that fear head-on during the recent Confident Communicators Workshop hosted at the University of Illinois. Twelve participants were from Moultrie-Douglas County 4-H, including Aubrie Stenger, Bria Hershberger, Raegan Hershberger, Roxy Clark, Ben Stutzman, Sophia Horst, Perla Juarez, Lola Fifield, Emma Hostetler, Ellie Hensley, Jenna Welsh, and Gabby Welsh. The hands-on workshop was led by Dr. Laura Stengrim and two University of Illinois Speech Communication students. Throughout the day, participants engaged in interactive sessions designed to strengthen public speaking skills, boost self-confidence, and enhance message delivery.
Read MoreFindlay Fire Protection District grain bin training
•March 4, 2026•
by DM Williamee
The Findlay Fire Protection District will be hosting a grain bin technical rescue class on March 6th through 8th, continuing on March 13th through 15th, for a complete and highly specialized 40-hour class. This training opportunity has been realized as a result of a multi-year process to implement all components: training, equipment, and manpower. Approximately two years ago, David Winans, Captain of the Findlay Fire Department, was able to purchase a set of grain rescue tubes through a local grain bin dealer who works with GSI (Grain Systems out of Assumption), with the cost being shared equally between the Findlay Fire Protection District, GSI, and Bins247.
Read MoreCity extends water emergency
•March 4, 2026•
by Sharon Barricklow
Residents of Sullivan will still be able to fill their water glasses and do their laundry despite the city extending their water emergency while they search for water alternatives, the city council said at their February 23rd meeting. “You can have a glass of water and wash your clothes,” Mayor Mike Mossman said. “We’re just asking people to be careful.”
Read MoreNarcan: better access can help save lives
•March 4, 2026•
by Angela Hogan
Administrator - Moultrie County Health Department
Across the United States and here in central Illinois, opioid overdoses continue to affect families, workplaces, and neighborhoods. Narcan is one of the most effective tools we have to prevent opioid overdose deaths. This easily administered nasal spray can take effect within minutes, giving someone a second chance at life.
Why Narcan access matters: Opioid overdoses remain a major public health crisis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 76,500 people died in the 12 months ending April 30, 2025, at a rate of 210 deaths per day. Most of these deaths involved opioids, including fentanyl. Illinois has also been affected, with thousands of overdose deaths each year.
Read MoreShrove Tuesday pancake fest draws in community
The hard-working crew behind the festivities, from pancakes and sausage to cupcakes and music: L-R: Ann Wheeler, Yvonne Workman, Lisa Hagan, Lois Shuman, Ron Weaver, Susan Connor, Ray Burris, and Teresa Lane.
by DM Williamee
On Tuesday, February 17th, locals flocked to the Sullivan First United Methodist Church to enjoy the church’s annual Shrove Tuesday pancake supper feast. With live music, festive decorations, and fabulously fluffy pancakes of multiple varieties, accompanied by sausage, the warm and joyous atmosphere was a wonderful display of community at its finest. Even before the doors officially opened, community members made their way in to enjoy the feast.
Read MoreSteps to conserve water
•February 18, 2026•
by DM Williamee
Currently, the City of Sullivan is under an emergency water restriction declaration. As of right now, an exact time-frame in which this will lift has not been given, but the current declaration is in effect through March 1st. Currently, the restrictions are washing cars, filling swimming pools, and watering lawns, with offenders paying up to a $750 dollar penalty. While there is much being said on social media in response to the emergency declaration, individual water conservation steps taken at home can help, and they need not be drastic nor painful.
Read MoreMISS Valentine’s Bingo
Photo by DM Williamee
On Friday, February 13th, local seniors gathered at the Mid-Illinois Senior Services, Inc./ Moultrie County Senior Center for a few rounds of Valentine’s Day bingo, sponsored by Help at Home. Playing traditional bingo, I/O, and blackout, many won prizes, and all had fun catching up with each other and joking around, with friendly competition for the prizes, which ranged from edible delights and helpful housewares to scented candles and stuffies. Many were dressed for the occasion, wearing red and Valentine’s Day-themed clothing, and some even brought their sweethearts to play as well.
Sullivan candidates forum
L-R: Ben Guyot, City of Sullivan citizen volunteer, retired teacher; Laurrie Minor, SCED Executive Director; and Dr. Ted Walk, Moderator and Sullivan School Superintendent.
On February 4th, a candidates’ forum was held at The Little Theater on the Square in Sullivan. Residents were invited to attend to hear local officials and candidates and to receive important information about issues on the ballot of the upcoming elections.
Healthy fats: choosing what’s beneficial to your health
•February 11, 2026•
Angie Hogan
Moultrie County Health Administrator
Foods containing fat were often blamed for weight gain and heart disease. As a result, many people tried to eat “low-fat” foods whenever possible. Today, health experts understand something important: Some fats are not only healthy, but they’re also essential and have a positive impact on overall health.
Why do healthy fats matter? Fat plays several important roles in the body. It provides energy, protects organs, and helps your body absorb certain vitamins. For example, vitamins A, D, E, and K require fat for proper absorption. Without enough healthy fat, your body may not get the full benefit from nutritious foods. Healthy fats also help you feel full after eating. This can reduce overeating and help with weight management.
What types of healthy fats should you include in your diet? The healthiest fats are called unsaturated fats. These fats are usually liquid at room temperature and come from plants and fish. Monounsaturated fats, when used in place of saturated fats, can help our bodies lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and support heart health. High blood levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in artery walls, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
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