Photo furnished
Pictured is the Lovington Coal Mining Co.

•February 21, 2018•

By Ellen Ferrera
for the News Progress

When the settlers began arriving to the vast prairies of central Illinois in the early 1800’s, they found a land of bountiful opportunity for their entrepreneurial spirits.

By 1850 Sullivan was an incorporated village and already bustling with such tradesmen as millers, bakers, lawyers, carriage makers, blacksmiths, a dentist and Joel Earp’s saloon among others.

Added to these were other businesses in Moultrie County with a coal mine in Lovington, a sorghum mill in Bruce and a bottle making plant in Sullivan.

There was a very rich vein of coal running lengthwise through Illinois, and a number of small mines sprang up in central Illinois. Chief among those in what was called the Lovington Triangle, was the Lovington Coal Mining Co. which started operation June 24, 1901.

After three attempts, a 902 feet shaft was completed and the 8’ 10” vein of fine quality coal was hoisted above ground. Coal mining was Moultrie County’s leading industry it ceased operation in 1924.   Read More

Photo by Mike Brothers
County Board Chair Dave McCabe presents Ron White with plaque.

•February 21, 2018•

Moultrie County Board members honored retiring member Ron White at the regular meeting Feb. 15. Chairman Dave McCabe presented White a plaque for his 15 years of service, noting that he served during the building of the county jail and health department.

White and wife Sharon attended the meeting with her joking that she needed his nameplate from the county board to help keep track of him in the future. “It’s been a pleasure to be of service to the people of Moultrie County,” White concluded.

Following the presentation McCabe proposed that the Budget and Finance Committee, which White chaired, become a committee of the whole with meetings prior to regular board meetings until fall elections and White’s permanent replacement is seated.

Kevin McReynolds was nominated and approved unanimously as vice-chairman of the county board. Read More

Photo by Ellen Ferrera
Bethany Village Board welcomes new police chief. (L-R) Jack Kiley, David Doty, Jonathan Book, Police Chief Chris Nichols, Greg McLain, Raven Russell and village president Bill Ashley (front).

•February 14, 2018•

By Ellen Ferrera
for the News Progress

Chris Nichols, Bethany police chief, told Bethany Village Board members about a program of getting rid of junk autos in the village.

The recently appointed chief suggested that a grant for a new squad car might be available from the state, but it will depend on funding from the federal government in the funding budget.

The estimated cost for a new car, fully equipped, is $39,000, and bids are being considered. The board then discussed the need for body cameras and spotlights, but no action was taken.

Board president Bill Ashley gaveled the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8.  Read More