Why childhood vaccination rates matter

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•May 20, 2026• by Angela Hogan R.N., MSPH Administrator, MCHD  Parents want their children to stay healthy, in school, and ready to learn. One of the most effective ways to protect them and our communities is through routine childhood vaccinations. A recent update from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) shows encouraging news: Most Illinois children are up to date on their required school vaccinations. In fact, nearly all reported immunization rates met or exceeded the state’s 95% coverage goal. “Across Illinois, families, schools, and public health partners are working together to keep children protected from preventable illnesses,” said … Read More

Remembering who we are….110

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“The Immortal Thirty-two” •May 20, 2026• by Janet Roney It’s been one hundred and ninety years since March 6, 1836, when Moultrie County’s Jonathan Lindley became the only Illinois man to die at the Alamo. At age twenty-two, Jonathan had everything to live for. After coming to Texas in 1833 from Moultrie County, Illinois, with his father, Samuel Washington Lindley, he owned 80 acres of land, a small herd of cattle, some pigs, and a cozy little cabin near Gonzales where he and his sweetheart, Sarah, would soon start their married life. What more could a young man ask for? … Read More

Students get head start with dual credit CDL course

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•May 20, 2026• Neoga senior Ayden White has yet to earn his high school diploma, but he’s already built the foundation of a high-demand career. Thanks to a unique partnership with Lake Land College, Ayden is turning his last semester of high school into a pathway toward earning a Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL).  Ayden is one of several local students enrolled this semester in Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Theory, a dual credit course designed to equip high schoolers with the career-ready skills to operate tractor-trailers, flatbeds, livestock carriers, and other heavy-duty vehicles. Held in the Lake Land College … Read More

Lady Redskins narrowly miss winning Sectional; Several qualify for State

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•May 20, 2026• by E. Scott England The IHSA Class 1A girl’s track sectional was held last Wednesday (May 13). Sullivan had the lead going into the final event where they were edged out by Shelbyville, 122 points to 118.5 points. But along the way, Sullivan picked up ten qualifiers for the Class 1A State Finals to be held in Charleston this week. One of those state qualifiers, Addie Patterson, also reset her own record in the 100m hurdles. Her time was 15.36. Patterson also qualified for state in the 300m hurdles as well. Emma Drake also qualified for state … Read More

A botanical evening 

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•May 20, 2026• A botanical evening  Master Gardeners have announced a ‘Botanical Evening in the Garden’, Thursday, June 18th, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. The event will be held in the Idea Garden at Sarah Bush Lincoln Hospital.  Participants are invited to stroll through the garden and learn about the plants, design, and care behind this special space from the Master Gardeners who tend it and enjoy samples of botanical teas and garden-inspired snacks—infused with herbs, fruits, and edible flowers grown right in the garden. See what’s new in the garden; even if you joined us last year, you’ll notice … Read More

Obituaries 5-20-2026: Brenda Meritt

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Brenda Meritt Brenda J. Meritt, 83, of Sullivan, Illinois died Sunday, May 10, 2026, at 8:00 p.m at Sullivan Rehab & Health Care. Funeral Services will be held Friday, May 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Kennedy & Sons Funeral Home, Pana, Illinois with Pastor Rodney Briscoe officiating. Visitation will also be Friday, May 22, 2026, at Kennedy & Sons beginning at 12:00 Noon until time of service. Burial will be in Myers Cemetery, Herrick Township, Shelby County, Illinois. … Read More

A Look Back…5-20-2026

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2016 National Nursing Home Week brought a variety of activities to area facilities. The sounds of laughter arrived when Mason Point residents in Sullivan met Deborah Joy Hart. Hart, a laughter therapist, was part of the World Laughter Tour and stopped by Mason Point for you guessed it, a few laughs. After experiencing rising costs in services with Aramark, ALAH questioned the possibility of finding alternatives. The new 2016-17 contract with a 2.6% increase due to cost of living was brought to the table at the last ALAH Board meeting. “With new regulations and menus that came in over the … Read More