Obituaries 8-27-2025: Ronald Houchin

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Ronald Houchin Ronald William Houchin, “HOWDY HOWDY”, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, in Sarasota, FL.  Ron was born at home on May 27th, 1940, to the late Vernon and Thelma Houchin near Allenville, Illinois. He graduated from Sullivan High School in Sullivan, Illinois in 1958. He then attended courses at Millikin University and the University of Illinois.  … Read More

A Look Back…8-27-2025

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2015 Ryan Aikman is Sullivan Schools’ athletic and activities director and is getting into the new job with a little help from some friends. “One of my best resources has been Charlie Brown”, said Aikman of former Sullivan Athletic Director, now A&M Principal,  For the first time since before 2007, a special training session hosted 550 members of the Illinois National Guard battalion at the Sullivan Middle School and Civic Center on Saturday, August 15th. … Read More

‘Christmas for the Kids’

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Photo Submitted ‘Christmas for the Kids’ Sparrows Unlimited, of Lovington, held its popular (31st annual now) “Christmas for the Kids” fundraiser last Saturday. Supporters filed in throughout the day to bid on silent auction items, listen to live music by Cash Hale, with Sons of the American Legion providing the ‘pork chop on a stick’ concessions. Many came out for the event and, forgoing the auction portion, donated to the cause with cash donations and enjoyed the socialization, music, and food. Pictured are members representing the Keystone Chapter of the Widows Sons, who presented a check to Sparrows president, Pam … Read More

Jenkins visits family home on Mason Point grounds: fond memories

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•August 27, 2025• by DM Williamee Photos by DM Williamee Walt Jenkins visits his family home, where he was born, for the first time since moving at age 12. Taking everyone back in history, he described how it looked then compared to now, which bedroom was whose, and shared stories of what life was like while the family lived there. Walter H. “Walt” Jenkins was born October 26th, 1934, in the brick house at what was, at the time, the Illinois Masonic Home. Walt and his older brother Glen were both born in the brick house, with Walt being born … Read More

New History Center writing group

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•August 27, 2025• The Moultrie County Historical and Genealogical Society has created a writing group for those who have gathered information on their ancestors and may need a nudge, help on how/where to start, or inspiration. Beginning with their first session on Thursday, September 11th, from 10:30 a.m. until noon at the History Center Library in Sullivan, this group will be getting together to kickstart your writing. Participants are reminded to bring their laptops and/or notebooks. Encouragement and brainstorming will be provided. The writing group leader will be Jeannie Barnes, and the group will meet on the second Thursday of … Read More

Medicare Part D enrollment

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•August 27, 2025• Mid-Illinois Senior Services is now scheduling appointments for Medicare Part D enrollments. Open Enrollment is October 15th through December 7th.  During this period, those with Medicare can renew their current prescription drug coverage, compare it with available plans, and possibly save money.   Call (217) 728-8521 to schedule your appointment. … Read More

Windsor Harvest Picnic draws crowds despite blistering temps

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•August 20, 2025• DM Williamee This year’s 128th (a most impressive number) Windsor Harvest Picnic drew crowds to the small community, despite ongoing record-high temperatures. Beginning on August 14th, the 3-day fete included events such as dinners, ice-cream socials, live musical performances from the Kentucky Headhunters and tribute band Fleetwood Gold, auctions, a 5k run, pedal tractor pulls, Bessie Bingo (sponsored by Windsor’s FFA chapter), inflatables (brought by 25/8 Extreme), ‘Little Miss Harvest’ picnic, and of course, a parade. … Read More