Photo by Darian Hays
Sparrows Wrap
On Saturday Dec. 8 Lovington area volunteers gathered at the Lovington Church of God community building where Sparrows Unlimited helpers such as Tracy Garmon meticulously wrapped gifts to be presented to nearly 100 Lovington area children while village trustee Dennis Garmon volunteered as DJ, playing Christmas music all morning.
Secret Santa Delivers
It was Operation Secret Santa gift distribution on Dec 15 at the Moultrie County Beacon. Secret Santa helped more than 80 families and 265 kids to celebrate Christmas this year. Pictured are some of the volunteers: Justine Brewer, Angie Coy, Lisa Sheehan, Cheryl Thomas, Areiana Donaldson, Kassie Waggoner, Brock Waggoner and Elizabeth Houser.
Photo by Mike Brothers
IGA Gives to Secret Santa
As the holiday season heads toward Christmas, volunteers for Secret Santa are on their way to Kohl’s in Forsyth to shop for 265 kids in need. Local coordinator Kassie Waggoner said 30 volunteers helped shop Friday, Dec. 7 with each Secret Santa sponsored child receiving two outfits and two gift items. Sullivan Chief of Police Jim Waggoner explained the number in need increased by more than 100 kids this year. “It’s a testimony to the support of the community,” Waggoner said. “Thanks to donations from businesses such as Sullivan IGA we continue to help those who need it most.” Pictured above Chief Waggoner and daughter Kassie accept the annual Sullivan IGA donation of $500 from store manage Pat Stinson.
Photo furnished
Live Nativity Walk is in Lovington
The Lovington First Church of God will present their fourth annual live walk through nativity event, “O Come Let Us Adore Him”, on Saturday, December 15 from 5–7 p.m. at the Family Life Center located at 305 West State Street.
Come share and experience the true meaning of Christmas, which features costumed characters and live animals.
Hot chocolate, cookies and live readings of the nativity story are provided inside the Life Center where the kids can make a Christmas keepsake.
The Lovington United Methodist Church Christmas choir will perform a special preview of their Christmas cantata, “Good News from Home” at 6 p.m.
This event is a free gift to the community from the Lovington First Church of God.
Photo by Mike Brothers
Decoration Team
It took 25 Sullivan Pre School students just a little while to add their personal Christmas decorations to the tree in the Moultrie County courthouse rotunda recently. The young Santa helpers also received a visit from Santa Claus and got a chance to tell him their Christmas Eve wishes.
Photo furnished
Jeremy Richey Sworn as Resident Judge
Jeremy Richey was sworn in as Moultrie County resident judge for the sixth circuit during ceremonies at the Moultrie County Courthouse Thursday, Nov. 29.
Chief Judge of the Sixth Circuit the Honorable Richard L. Broch of Douglas County presided over a courtroom filled with family, friends and colleagues of the former State’s Attorney of Moultrie County. Judge Broch noted that in his new role Judge Richey must prepare each case keeping in mind that every case is the most important case to the person involved.
The Honorable Judge Hugh Finson of Piatt County administered Richey’s oath. After his swearing in, the Honorable Judge Richey thanked his family, and those attending the ceremony. A reception was held in Courtroom B for those attending. Above, Richey’s wife Cassie helps with his robe.
Photo furnished
SES Delivers Pie in the Face
The Sullivan Middle School and Sullivan Elementary School’s Day of Giving drive results have SES students winning, and the prize is a pie in the face for SMS principal Nathan Ogle by SES principal Dan Allen. Sullivan Elementary School collected a total of 904 items and $1010.37 through the tremendous effort of the students and the community.
Businesses that assisted are IGA, Ace Hardware, Sullivan Eyecare, Oakwood Apothecary, Cathrine’s and 5 West Coffee Lounge. Organizations that helped in the drive include First United Methodist Church and MOMS group, Vineyard Church, Lion’s Club, and Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority. All of the food collected and money donated went directly to the local food bank.
For more information on how to assist or donate contact Pastor Dave Dolan at 217-728-4200.
Photo by Mike Brothers
Appreciation Plaque
Moultrie County Board Chairman presented outgoing Democrat county board member Gary Smith of Lovington with an Appreciation Plaque for his years of service. Smith was the only Democrat on the board which is all Republican following the November election.
Photo by Ellen Ferrera
Candy Sells for Food Bank
The crowds were waiting at 9 a.m. Saturday for the Flesor’s candy sale at Cathrine’s in downtown Sullivan. It was the best sale yet with 20% of all sales Saturday supporting the Moultrie County Food Pantry. Ava Harshman of Sullivan found this white chocolate Santa to satisfy her chocolate cravings on Saturday.
Photo by Mike Brothers
River Dancers Brandon Helm (front) and Matt Clayton demonstrate Native American story telling through dance at Lovington Elementary School.