•November 5, 2025•
by DM Williamee
With the holidays fast approaching, the protracted government shutdown (including SNAP benefits holds beginning November 1st as a result, unless Congress passes a budget by then), increased utility costs, and many already living on the precipice of a paycheck-to-paycheck existence, the Illinois Department of Human Services has published a page of helpful websites to direct those in need to their area Foodbanks.
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•November 5, 2025•
by DM Williamee
On Saturday, November 1st, the First Christian Church of Sullivan’s parking lot was packed (as were its hallways and other spaces) with Christmas shoppers and Christmas cheer. From authors, bakers, craft-makers, and coordinators, the scent and spirit of the holiday season filled the air. Delectable delights of all types, arts and crafts from creatively pragmatic to beautiful, left all in attendance hovering over tables and shelves, checking their lists, and anticipating Christmas the day after Halloween.
by Sharon Barricklow
Attendees at Sullivan City Council meetings will have new rules to follow for the public comment period after the council passed a new ordinance on October 27.
The new ordinance will limit individual comments to three minutes each and the total public comment period will be limited to 30 minutes. The rule came after several of the last city council meetings had public comment periods that lasted more than an hour and involved multiple people speaking at multiple times. Mayor Mike Mossman, who has been frustrated by the lengthy period of public comment, said he hoped the new rule would help the council stay on track in doing city business.
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•November 5, 2025•
by Nevaeh Wilson
Sullivan High School will host its annual Veterans’ Day celebration on Monday, November 11th, from 9:45 to 11:15 a.m. at Sullivan High School, 110 W. Magill Street. The event will begin with a brunch for veterans from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m., followed by a school assembly in the Middle School Gymnasium that will conclude around 11:15 a.m.
This special event is held each year to honor and thank our local veterans for their service. There is no charge to attend, and all veterans and community members are encouraged to join us. The celebration will follow the Elementary School’s Veterans Day program, continuing our tradition of recognizing those who have served.
Highlights of the assembly include: performances of branch songs by the Middle School Choir and Singers Jr., a reading of the winning Veterans Writing Contest entry, musical performances by the Sullivan Singers and Sullivan Band, a special speech from fellow veteran Daniel Allen, a performance of TAPS, and more.
The entire community is invited to attend and show appreciation for our veterans. For questions about the assembly, please contact Nevaeh Wilson at 2026nwilson@sullivan.k12.il.us. To RSVP for the brunch, please email Jennifer Voegel at voegelj@sullivan.k12.il.us.
•November 5, 2025•
The Sullivan American Legion Auxiliary Unit #68 recently announced the results of this year’s Veterans Day Art and Writing Contest.
The Best in Show award went to SHS junior Claire Kursell for her drawing “My Dearest Irene,” which also received first place in art for juniors and seniors.
Kursell noted in her Creator’s Statement that her piece was “inspired by the letters of WWII veteran Natale Bellantoni to Irene Sztucinski,” which she read while researching topics for the contest. She added that she was so interested in their story that she knew she wanted to use their story for her submission.
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•November 5, 2025•
The Sullivan Lions Club recently donated a bench at Wyman Park. The bench can be enjoyed for years to come in various spots around the park, based on the season. Since 1941, Sullivan Lions Club, an affiliate of Lions International, has been committed to helping local residents with vision and hearing services, hunger, and youth needs. If you are interested in learning more about our organization, contact Brent Mansfield at (217) 248-6180.
Members in the photo include: Brent Mansfield, Jess Barker, Dick Martin, Dave Walker, Lynn Elder, Don Evans, Steve Mayberry, Connor Klingele, Ginger Voegel, Bill VanKeuren, and Richard Murphy.
•October 29, 2025•
by DM Williamee
On Saturday, October 25th, BASO sponsored Bethany’s Main Street Trick or Treat, with numerous local businesses participating in the fun. From ghastly ghosts and giggling goblins to pretty princesses and prowling pirates, everyone came to show their holiday best. In addition to treats, there was music, games, sweatshirts, and-of course, good cheer amongst all in attendance.
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•October 29, 2025•
by DM Williamee
On October 26th, Habitat for Humanity and the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation (HICF), as well as friends and family, gathered to give Cherie Kursell and her children, Amber and Claire, the keys to their new home. Greetings were conducted, introductions, an opening prayer, scripture reading (Isaiah 32:18), presentation of a bible by the family sponsor, blessing of the home, presentation of the American Flag, presentation of the house key, comments by partner family, words of appreciation, and closing, and ending with a benediction by Rev. Grant Wade. Habitat for Humanity also thanked HICF for its fifteen-thousand-dollar contribution, which made completion of this home by this Fall possible. This is the 36th Habitat Home completed in the Sullivan area in twenty-nine years. Home recipient Cherie Kursell emotionally thanked everyone for the home and their support. Within minutes, the home began to fill with furniture and friends, and the overall atmosphere was one of joy.
Photo Submitted
Okaw Valley held their fall senior night on October 20th at the volleyball game. Those honored included marching band, golf, football cheer and volleyball. Pictured are Gracie Plummer and Reese Bruns from the volleyball team.
Submitted
Sullivan High School’s FCCLA, has been honored as a 2024–2025 FCCLA Ultimate Chapter Award recipient. This prestigious recognition, the highest honor bestowed upon FCCLA chapters nationwide, celebrates the chapter’s exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to creating lasting impact in their school and community. The chapter is advised by Ms. Jennifer Voegel and Ms. Kali Taylor. Over the past two years, they have successfully expanded the chapter from 20 members to more than 60 members and are growing. Their commitment to the organization and its members is truly commendable.
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