News Progress

•December 10, 2025•

The Sullivan Chamber & Economic Development (SCED) has announced that construction has officially begun on the North Point Homes scattered site housing development—an effort nearly eight years in the making and a major step forward in addressing Sullivan’s long-standing need for safe, modern, and affordable rental housing.

The project’s roots date back nearly a decade, when economic development efforts and local partners began removing dilapidated homes and blighted structures to prepare for future redevelopment. During this foundational stage, local business owner Zak Horn emerged as a key champion for the initiative. Horn invested personal resources into securing teardown properties, participated in meetings with the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IDHA), worked alongside developers, architects, and city officials, and helped guide the early application process. His support included transferring his portion of the project sponsor development fee so that SCED could be the financial beneficiary.

•December 10, 2025•

Every Monday at 9:00 a.m., ETML will be hosting the Memory Café. This is a social gathering for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Get helpful information and support from others who also have loved ones who struggle with memory loss. 

Every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. is Story Time. 

On December 10th, drop in between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. to create your own Ugly Sweater. ETML will provide T-shirts on a first-come, first-served basis, or you can bring your own shirt. Supplies will be provided. 

Submitted by  Nancy Mueller

Santa made his annual visit to the Bethany Depot on Sunday, December 7th, arriving by fire truck, driven by Tom Gregory. Children were excited to give Santa their wish lists, with a few just not sure about the bearded guy in the red suit. Stockings with toys and goodies were handed out by the young ladies of the Bethany Celebration royalty, and pictures were taken by Kathy Doty. Families were treated to cookies and hot chocolate provided by ladies from the Bethany churches. All children were entered in the door prize drawings with an extra entry if items for the Bethany Food Pantry were brought in. 

The BASO committee appreciated all donations that made this a successful event. Special thanks to Phyllis Swinehart for making the stockings, Cindy Sanner for the use of the Depot, Tom Gregory for bringing Santa, and to Santa, Tom Rucker. 

Photos by Nancy Mueller

•December 10, 2025•

Lake Land College recently received an $18,903.94 Nursing School grant from the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE). Lake Land will use the grant funds in 2026 to support student outcomes in two specific areas. The first is to acquire educational equipment, including infusion pumps and a diverse set of mannequins and injection arms, which will better prepare students with the hands-on training necessary to thrive in their careers. 

2015

Moultrie County’s updated Animal Control Ordinance will allow easier enforcement of violations. State’s Attorney Jeremy Richey presented the changes to the Public Health and Safety Committee, explaining that the changes clarify what procedures the sheriff’s department must follow to issue citations.

State Senator Dale Righter (R-Mattoon) voted in support of Senate Bill 2039 on December 7th, legislation that releases the state’s portion of the motor fuel tax (MFT) money and included funding for 911 call centers, fire prevention, veterans’ homes, lottery winners, utility bills, and other programs.