News Progress

•October 8, 2025•

by DM Williamee

On Saturday, October 4th Bethany Fire held an Open house at the Fire Station, scheduled from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., open to all. Just over an hour and a half into the event, duty called and a fire call came in, with firefighters at the station dispatched to respond. Scheduled for the open house were the following events: free hot dog lunch, bounce house, firehouse tour, truck and ambulance tour, ‘Smoke House’ tour, obstacle course, gear photobooth, fire extinguisher demonstration, and a turnout gear race. Before the call came in, many of the activities were in full swing and greatly enjoyed by those in attendance. Hot dogs all around for everyone, a fun and impressive timed obstacle course for the children in attendance that they could not get enough of, with many making multiple passes through.

•October 8, 2025•

by DM WIlliamee

As the leaves begin to turn color and fall, crops are being harvested, and homes are being buttoned down in (great) anticipation of cooler temps, it’s time to appreciate an institution that has been around longer than home internet: National Newspaper Week (NNW), which is celebrated and observed October 5th through 11th.  Established in 1940, this week serves as a reminder of the vital role newspapers play in both our local communities and society, regardless of size or location. Newspapers are much like a good cup of coffee on a Monday morning - essential, invigorating, and even a little bitter.

•October 1, 2025•

Photos by DM Williamee

The Sullivan Fire Protection District held its annual ‘Pancake and Sausage’ breakfast on the morning of Saturday, the 27th.  Last year’s turnout was around 600, and this year was even better, serving 735 at the firehouse plus 140 to go orders. With something for everyone, much laughter and compliments to the chef could be heard as community members caught up on current events as they enjoyed their breakfasts.

•October 1, 2025•

by DM Williamee

On Saturday the 27th, Sullivan High School opened its doors to the community to show them the progress they are proud to have finally accomplished after delays and other typical construction headaches. With new modern and colorful classrooms, updated technology throughout, wide hallways, the new gymnasium (complete with the premium ‘Reserved Seating’ section, which is for season ticket holders only), as well as interior/exterior security camera coverage, the new school brought a vast array of commentary from those who took advantage of the open house.

Photos by DM Williamee

•October 1, 2025•

by DM Williamee

Word redundancy (not corporate downsizing) is something most are ‘guilty’ of, myself included. I have been known to use phrases such as “Close proximity,” “absolutely essential,” and “end result.” Truth be told, I still do, not even realizing I have done it. Hats off to anyone who has mastered the elimination of redundancy! But what is it, and why does it matter?

Word redundancy is the unnecessary repetition of words, phrases, or ideas that don’t add any new meaning to what you are trying to say. Unlike effective repetition, which emphasizes a point (and is another topic in and of itself), redundancy bulks up communication and makes it less impactful. Short and sweet for the win. But exactly how does it impact what is being said?