Category Archives: News Section

Arthur Freedom Celebration shatters attendance records for America’s 250th Milestone

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•July 8, 2026•

by Ariana R. Cherry

Despite steamy temperatures and heavy July humidity, thousands of visitors poured into Arthur on Saturday, June 27, transforming Jurgens Park into a sea of lawn chairs and patriotic pride for the community’s annual Freedom Celebration. According to members of the Arthur Rotary, the event appeared to draw a record-breaking crowd, as residents and tourists alike gathered for what has become one of Central Illinois’ premier Independence Day traditions.

This year’s celebration carried extraordinary significance as Arthur joined the nation in commemorating the 250th anniversary of America’s founding. The semiquincentennial milestone was woven into every aspect of the day, from the flags lining the boulevards to the community-wide “Fly Our Flag for Freedom” initiative. The sense of hometown hospitality was palpable as local merchants and neighbors welcomed the influx of visitors with the warmth Arthur is known for.

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Deer population surges around lake

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•July 1, 2026•

by Sharon Barricklow

A doe and her fawn are regulars near Lake Shelbyville.

Is your shrubbery looking jagged? Is your garden not producing? Are their hoof prints in the mud and something on the ground bigger than any dog business? If so, you may have been visited by Moultrie County’s resident deer.

Believe it or not, in 1900 the white tail deer population in Illinois was virtually extinct. Obviously, in the last 126 years that has changed, with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources estimating the state’s deer population at 660,000 in 2025. Moultrie County doesn’t have the largest deer population, that honor goes to Joe Davies County, but in 344 square mile Moultrie County, more than 700 are harvested annually during hunting season.

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Work begins on new city well

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•July 1, 2026•

Construction began on a new water well for Sullivan last week.

by Sharon Barricklow

A new addition to Sullivan’s well field is under construction last week after the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency issued a drilling permit.

Sullivan has been under water restrictions since earlier this year due to low water levels in the aquifer that supplies the city with water. City council members said the new well will not entirely alleviate the water shortage but is a step forward. 

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A variety of programs offered at the Moultrie County History Center

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•July 1, 2026•

Submitted by Tonya Frevert

MCHGS Publicity Chair

Have you been to the Moultrie County History Center yet? Founded in 1973, the Moultrie County Historical and Genealogical Society is a nonprofit volunteer organization that strives to bring together people of all ages interested in the history and genealogy of Moultrie County and central Illinois. In addition to our library and museum, we host monthly public programs to illustrate the history of the area and its people. Our programs showcase the variety of stories and lived experiences that our diverse community has to share with one another. 

Most recently, our June program showcased the history of local radio in Moultrie County. Moultrie County natives Larry Oathout and Scot England recounted the creation of Sullivan radio station WFWA in 1974, tracing its journey through multiple owners and name changes over the years. While recalling some of the notable on-air radio personalities—such as Gerald “Griz” England—Scot and Larry shared humorous recollections of their own journeys working in small-town radio and highlighted the rewards and challenges, both past and present.

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Celebrate the Fourth of July safely

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Keep America’s 250th Independence Day free from mishaps
•July 1, 2026•

by Angela Hogan

Few things in America say “summer” like the Fourth of July. Our entire nation goes on holiday with cookouts, fireworks, and other festivities. Regardless of how you plan to celebrate, a few simple precautions can help keep the holiday fun for everyone. Here are five key areas to help you and your family safely enjoy Independence Day:

#1. Fireworks: Leave It to the Professionals

Fireworks are a holiday favorite, but they’re also a leading cause of injury every July. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a professionally managed public display. If you choose to use consumer fireworks:

• Check local laws and fire bans. Some areas prohibit fireworks altogether.

• Don’t allow young children to handle fireworks. Even sparklers, which burn at 1,200°F, can cause significant injuries.

• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby for easy access. Use fireworks with caution and have water ready in case of an accident or fire.

• Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.

• Never relight a “dud.” Wait 20 minutes and soak it in water.

#2. Protect Your Hearing: Turn Down the Boom

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ETML tile art psychedelic

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•June 24, 2026•

On Tuesday, June 16th, the YA group came together at the Elizabeth Titus Memorial Library to create tile coasters. Using Sharpies, isopropyl alcohol, air, and fire, the YA group had a blast watching how their colored designs on the tile transformed each step of the project. From the original Sharpie colored designs on the tiles to the placement of the alcohol, using air to direct the colors, to the firing, each piece transformed in beautifully unpredictable ways. There were smiles, laughter, and excited exchanges of ideas as the YA group worked together, each trying to predict what their final tile coaster would look like. Once ‘fired’, all of the tiles were sprayed with a durable sealant, making them ready to serve as coasters, making great gifts and keepsakes. The project was a resounding success, thoroughly enjoyed by all. To stay current with the many events offered at ETML for all age groups (of which there are many), visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082637979457.

Like dominoes 

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Photo by R.R. Best

On Route 133 between Lovington and Arthur, power poles fell as a result of the storm systems that hit central Illinois in two waves on Wednesday, June 17th. These storms left many without power and caused widespread damage throughout the area, including confirmed tornado touchdowns in nearby counties.