New Year’s Resolutions for Your Social Life

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•December 20, 2023•

New Year’s resolutions tend to focus heavily on healthy aspirations. Each January, people from all walks of life express a desire to lose weight, exercise more, quit smoking, or get more sleep. However, that doesn’t mean that resolutions cannot involve fun with friends.

Resolutions that focus on improving social connections might be something to consider this year. Expanding your social life can prove beneficial, as strong social connections are important to maintaining cognitive health and emotional well-being. The following are some socially-minded resolutions.

• Volunteer. One of the best ways to meet new people is to engage in activities that attract like-minded individuals. Volunteer activities are one avenue to explore. Volunteerism can start in schools, community centers, houses of worship, and elsewhere through the community. Read More

A Look Back…

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2013 

The Lovington Housewalk, an event that had not been held in more than five years was held. The walk which formerly benefitted Lovington High School had its proceeds going to support the Relay for Life, a fundraising event for the American Cancer Society that year. The event had a steady stream of visitors to the six homes included in the walk. The one day event raised $800.

The First Christian Church of Sullivan quilters Sunday School class made small quilts that were given to the Sullivan Police Department, who provided them to children who had been uprooted from his or her familiar surroundings and taken to the police department until child services could take over. The quilts were given to the children and they were theirs to keep.  Read More

Former Prairie Farms Dairy CEO Awarded Honor

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•December 13, 2023•

In recognition of his lifetime of exemplary leadership and service in the agriculture industry, Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) honored Ed Mullins, former CEO of Prairie Farms Dairy, with the 2023 Charles B. Shuman Distinguished Service Award during the organization’s annual meeting in Chicago, Dec. 2-4. The award is the highest given by IFB.

Mullins began his career in the food industry in 1968 with Schulze & Burch Biscuit Company. During his 10 years with the company, Mullins was drafted into the U.S. Army and served 15 months in Southeast Asia and served as a military police officer.

After returning from the army, Mullins worked as general manager of PepsiCo in Marion for two years before joining Prairie Farms Dairy in 1980. There, he began a 42-year career, working up through the ranks and serving in many leadership positions before taking on the role of CEO in 2006. He was the company’s 4th CEO since its inception in 1938. Read More

LLC to host St. Louis Cardinals Caravan

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•December 13, 2023•

Lake Land College will host the St. Louis Cardinals Caravan at noon on Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024 in the Lake Land College Field House.

This event gives fans the opportunity to interact with members of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, including current and former players, broadcast talents and other familiar faces. Children 15-years-old and younger will also receive one autograph from each current and former player in attendance at the event. Read More

Windsor November Students of the Month

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Windsor November Students of the Month
Windsor Jr./Sr. High School recently announced their November Students of the Month, Timmy Graber and Olivia Rogers.
Timmy Graber is a 7th grader and is the son of Mariko and Mark Graber. He is involved in basketball and enjoys drawing in his spare time.
Olivia Rogers is currently a sophomore and the granddaughter of Cindy and Jay Rogers. She enjoys drawing and gaming. She would like to one day become an EMT.

Nativity Scene Relocated Due to Work on Courthouse

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photo furnished
Nativity Scene Relocated Due to Work on Courthouse
For over four decades, the Sullivan Area Ministerial Association (SAMA) has been spreading the joy and wonder of the holiday season in Moultrie County. A group of dedicated pastors within SAMA has made a cherished tradition of setting up a life-sized nativity on the courthouse lawn every year since around 1980. This breathtaking display not only captures the essence of the Christmas story but also serves as a symbol of unity and community spirit. The nativity scene, meticulously arranged by these pastors, has become a beloved fixture during the holiday season, bringing a sense of peace and reflection to all who pass by. Through their enduring commitment, SAMA continues to weave the magic of Christmas into the fabric of our community, fostering a shared appreciation for the true meaning of the season. This year, the Nativity has a new home on the square due to ongoing work on the courthouse building. Be sure to include a visit in your Christmas traditions this year.

Events Happening at Arthur Library

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•December 13, 2023•

Here is a listing of Arthur library’s program for the next several weeks.

Dec. 14 Tales and Tunes with Trudy 3:45 PM

Dec. 16 Build a Bear at 1:00 PM.  You must call the library at 217-543-2037and sign up as there are a limited number of bears.

Dec. 18 Board meeting 6:00 PM.

Dec. 21 Tales and Tunes with Trudy 3:45 PM. Read More

Gift Responsibly Campaign

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•December 13, 2023•

The Hour House has announced its commitment as a participant of the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University. Read More

Managing Holiday Stress

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•December 13, 2023•

Cheri Burcham

Extension Educator

University of Illinois Extension

I would like to share this article written by Illinois Extension Educator Tessa Hobbs-Curley in the latest Family Files blog. Tessa says: The American Psychological Association has conducted a nationwide survey in its Mind/Body campaign since 2007. The focus is to examine the state of stress nationwide and understand its impact. The study in 2023 indicated that 55% of Americans are stressed during the day. Managing stress can help emotionally, physically, socially, and mentally. Sometimes, the holiday season adds a little extra stress because we might have to pay attention to more responsibilities, such as seasonal deadlines, packed schedules, dreading specific functions, and extra financial burdens. Michelle Grocke, Ph.D. Health & Wellness Specialist MSU talks about positive ways to manage stress. Here are a few coping strategies to get you started: Read More

Letter to the Editor 12-13-2023

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Dear Editor,

I am writing to shed light on the invaluable work carried out by the Sullivan Area Ministerial Association (SAMA) and to call upon the generosity of our community.

For decades, SAMA has been a beacon of hope for those facing adversity in Moultrie County. The scope of their assistance is vast, covering essential needs such as utilities, rent, automotive support, hotel stays, food, fuel, and even Christmas Certificates. It’s heartening to know that, over a 12-month period, SAMA distributes substantial funds to support thousands of individuals within our community.

This year, one noteworthy project helped by SAMA was the provision of school supply boxes to 124 students in Sullivan. Such initiatives showcase the association’s commitment to addressing various facets of need, ensuring that no one is left behind in their pursuit of a better life. Read More