News Progress

•May 13, 2026•

A stroke can change a life in an instant. In the minutes after symptoms begin, quick action can help protect the brain, reduce long-term disability, and save a life, according to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association. In rural communities, where EMS responses can be delayed and minutes matter, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and seek treatment quickly.

On average, nearly 2 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated, making early recognition and treatment critical. During May, American Stroke Month, the Stroke Association is highlighting the importance of recognizing stroke warning signs and understanding how early treatment and prevention can make a meaningful difference when it matters most. Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update[1], and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States. Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke. A stroke can happen to anyone, at any age.

Three things you can do to take action against stroke:

•May 13, 2026•

On Tuesday, May 5th, the Sullivan American Legion Post No. 68 in Sullivan held a Memorial Blood Drive in memory of Ellen Feeler, a special education and early childhood development teacher in Sullivan for 25 years, who made a tremendous impact on the students and community in her many years of service. Her husband, Tony, was there and was obviously appreciative of the kindness and generosity of those who came to donate blood in memory of his wife. Tony shared the same sentiment as previously- that Ellen truly loved what she did and would never do anything different than the life-impacting career she chose to do in Sullivan for so many years.

•May 13, 2026•

The Regional Office of Education #11 (ROE #11) has announced the recipients of the 2026 Recognition of Excellence Award. This annual honor celebrates outstanding education professionals across the region who demonstrate exceptional skill, unwavering dedication, and a remarkable ability to inspire students from all backgrounds and abilities. Selected from a pool of nominations, these awardees have earned the deep respect of students, parents, colleagues, and communities through their outstanding leadership, innovative teaching, and meaningful involvement both inside and beyond the classroom. One recipient was chosen from each school district, recognizing their profound contributions to educational excellence and student success.

•May 13, 2026•

The Illinois State Museum (ISM) invites the public to get their kicks at a new “Miles of Memories: Stories of Route 66” exhibit opening Saturday, May 23. The exhibition brings to life the experience of living, working, and traveling along U.S. Route 66 during its heyday. The exhibit incorporates the museum’s Route 66 Oral History Project, a collection of 100 interviews with people who experienced the road when it served as the primary route between Chicago and Los Angeles. Visitors can listen to excerpts from these firsthand accounts throughout the exhibit.

•May 13, 2026•

Students from Arthur Christian School, ALAH High School, and Arthur Grade School recently demonstrated both their writing talent and patriotic spirit in the 2026 Americanism Essay Contest. Sponsored by the Arthur Legion Auxiliary #479, Atwood Legion Auxiliary #770, and Lovington Legion Auxiliary #429, the contest invited students to reflect on the meaningful question: “What are the Core American Values?”