Powering up local generosity, community leaders launch new giving circle

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Submitted by Natalie Beck, HICF CEO

Three area community leaders, in partnership with the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, announce the launch of the Impact Giving Circle. Linda Carlton-Huber, Susie Inman, and Grant Wade are inviting the community to join them in this new giving circle to fuel lasting change. 

The Impact Giving Circle invites community-minded men and women to pool their donations and decide together how to best invest in programs that support and empower education and social service agencies in Moultrie County and the surrounding area.

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Moultrie County approves grocery tax

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•August 20, 2025•

by Sharon Barricklow

Aone percent grocery items tax the state has been collecting will be collected next year by Moultrie County after the county board approved the change at the meeting Thursday night.

The Grocery Service Occupation Tax has been collected by Illinois and passed back to local governments. After the state legislature voted to end the tax beginning January 1st, area communities and counties are voting on keeping it in place for themselves. Moultrie County’s tax will only apply to food sellers in the unincorporated areas of the county. 

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Community turns out for Kyle Lehman cookout

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•August 20, 2025•

Photo DM Williamee
Back: Seth Cobb, Gage Simmons, Pat Stinson, Jamie Leham, Front: Rhett Lehman, Kathy Booker, Rachel Walton, Briggs Walton, Kay Lehman, Cindy Guin, Esther McDebitt, and Emmy McDebbitt

On Saturday, August 16th, the Sullivan community enjoyed ribeye sandwiches and tenderized pork chops at the Kyle Lehman Honorary Scholarship Fundraising Cookout, sponsored by and held at Kirby Foods IGA in Sullivan. The scholarship, established in 2023, honors Kyle Lehman’s contribution to the Sullivan community and raises funds for the scholarship’s continuation, with all profits funding scholarships awarded to high school seniors working at Kirby Foods. Since its inception, the scholarship has awarded scholarships to eight deserving students.

Outhouse Festival in Gays draws crowds

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•August 13, 2025•

Photos by DM Williamee

The Outhouse Festival held last Saturday in Gays drew crowds, both young and old, and there was certainly something for everyone. Among the favorites for children were the ‘corn pit’, a live Mermaid and Pirate Show, a live and interactive Dino show, multiple inflatables, a petting zoo, and glitter tattoos. 

For parents, there was a car show, live band performances, multiple vendor booths offering a wide array of wares, food and beverage trucks, and for all, the legendary 2-story out-house itself, which saw many visitors. Parking was free, and despite warmer temps, the shows were much enjoyed, and smiles abounded.

‘Back to School Bash’ a blast at JCCC

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Photos by DM Williamee

Last Saturday, Jonathan Creek Christian Church held a ‘Back to School Bash’ for all students in the Sullivan and surrounding communities who are returning to school this week. Kids enjoyed a waterslide, bounce house, and cornhole amongst other festivities, and a grilled lunch was provided free of charge to all who attended. As can be seen, this last bash of summer was pursued with great enthusiasm by those who attended.

Blue Dolphins 2025/2026 tryouts

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•August 13, 2025•

The Sullivan Blue Dolphins will hold their swim team tryouts on Tuesday, August 19th at 5:00 p.m. at the Sullivan Civic Center. Session runs from August 2025 through mid-July 2026. The annual registration fee is $100.00; membership cost varies by practice group. Practices are held 2-5 times per week, based on practice group. Ages are five to eighteen. Remember to bring your suit and towel.

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MCRTA’s “Show and Tell”

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Submitted

Moultrie County retired teachers gathered on Wednesday, August 6th, at the Moultrie County Historical and Genealogical Society Building in Sullivan. President Vickie Newberry conducted the MCRTA business meeting. During the meeting, Cole Huber, a current Sullivan teacher, made an appearance to thank the MCRTA for the grant he received. He was able to purchase  five new computer keyboards for the new school year. This grant was made possible by our  Monical’s Community Day’s monies. 

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Mindful invitation signs at Tabor Park

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•August 13, 2025•

Submitted by Cheri Burcham

U of I Illinois Extension Educator

There is increasing evidence that being in and around nature can benefit humans physically and mentally. There is also more research showing how mindfulness techniques can be beneficial to a person’s well-being.

A group of Illinois Extension staff, consisting of horticulture and family life educators and Master Gardeners, and Naturalists EPCs, formed an interdisciplinary workgroup called “Wellness in Nature.” This workgroup has been developing materials and a curriculum that focuses on how green spaces, gardens, and nature benefit your overall well-being.

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