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

News Progress Posted on by


•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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Lehman takes 2nd with team at NJHA

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Photo Submitted
Rhett Lehman (second from right) of Sullivan was a member of the 2nd-place senior team representing Illinois in the Livestock Judging Contest, at the event provided by the Hereford Youth Foundation of America. The National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) hosted the 2025 VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) “Live from Louisville,” in Louisville, Ky., July 12th-18th. More than 700 Hereford juniors were entered to exhibit cattle, compete in educational contests, and participate in leadership events.

Gays to host ‘Outhouse Festival’ this Saturday

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•August 6, 2025•

Gamble’s General Store, built in 1872, was attached to a general store downstairs, and upstairs were apartments. The design was so each floor had its own ‘facilities’. Gamble’s General Store was torn down in 1984, when the Village acquired it, and the two-story outhouse has been a tourist attraction since the 1960s. This is the biggest festival yet. Below is the Schedule of Events for the festival. 

Saturday Festival Schedule:

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