Law and Oratory Springboard Albert Beveridge’s Career

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•June 6, 2018• By Eden Martin NP Guest Columnist A combination of factors led Albert to develop his talent for public speaking: First, he was blessed with a strong work ethic, a clear mind and outstanding memory, all of which contributed to his development as a fine speaker. Second, that natural talent was nourished by hearing the Fourth of July and Memorial Day speeches that typified holiday celebrations in central Illinois. Third, he was impressed by the Methodist church services. Allie wrote in his draft autobiography about those services: “The ‘mourner’s bench’ was a very genuine thing in those days. … Read More

Three Big Events Kick off Summer Season for  Arthur area

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•June 6, 2018• By Ariana Cherry For the News Progress The first weekend in June brought a variety of events for both tourist and local residents to enjoy in Arthur. From sheep shearing to browsing, a variety of crafts and antiques at the Back 40 Market to getting refreshed from the heat while drinking a strawberry shake-up at the Strawberry Jam, the possibilities for everyone were endless. Along Route 133 at the new site of the Illinois Amish Heritage Center near Chesterville, the Sheep to Clothing event took place Saturday, June 2. Folks were able to get a chance to … Read More

Okaw Valley Alumni Wall of Fame Inductee

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•June 6, 2018• Dan Flannell from the Bethany High School class of 1970 is the 2018 Alumni Wall of Fame inductee for Okaw Valley schools. To be nominated an individual must have been a graduate of Bethany, Findlay, or Okaw Valley. Nominations are based on an individual’s contribution to society and community, the betterment of mankind or occupational/endeavor recognition. This nominee earned his degree in finance at the University of Illinois in 1974 and later graduated law school from the University of Illinois in 1977.  … Read More

Townwide Rummage

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•June 6, 2018• The Sullivan Townwide Rummage Sales are Friday & Saturday, June 8 and 9. The Boy Scouts cookout will be held both days on the Sullivan IGA parking lot. The annual townwide rummage is sponsored by First Community Bank of Moultrie County, Sullivan IGA and the News Progress. … Read More

Texting While Driving Legislation Heads to Governor’s Desk

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•June 6, 2018• Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White’s legislation strengthening the law on texting while driving moves to the governor’s desk, following the Illinois Senate’s approval of House Bill 4846, which cracks down on texting while driving by classifying first-time offenses as moving violations. Under the current law, which took effect in 2014, second and subsequent texting while driving offenses are treated as moving violations, while first offenses are treated as nonmoving violations. “With the increased use of technological devices, distracted driving has become a serious problem on the roads of our state and throughout the nation,” said White. … Read More

Moultrie-Sullivan Fair June 22-23

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•June 6, 2018• Preparations are underway for the Moultrie-Sullivan Fair June 22-23. On May 5, approximately 40 people showed up with rakes, shovels, and other miscellaneous tools along with four tractors with scoops to prepare the Moultrie Sullivan fairgrounds. Many hands make light work; within a couple of hours, the fairgrounds are now almost ready for the 2018 Moultrie Sullivan Fair. Those with questions may reach the fair board members by email at moultriesullivanfair@yahoo.com. … Read More

ALAH School District Approves Tentative Budget/Calendar

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•June 6, 2018• Budget hearing scheduled June 20 By Ariana Cherry for The News Progress Superintendent Kenny Schwengel noted that the balance of all funds is $5,091,708.56 at the last meeting of the Arthur-Lovington/Atwood-Hammond School Board. “All funds are in good shape aside from the transportation fund,” he said. “We are still waiting on a $144,000 transportation payment from the state,” There was an abatement of the working cash fund, and $52,000 were moved from the education fund to the transportation fund. A tentative 2018 budget was approved and a budget hearing will be held at 6 p.m. June 20. … Read More

Remember When? 6-6-2018

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25 Years Ago This Week Our town is preparing for the Festival of Stars this weekend. Country music star Mel McDaniel will perform a high energy show on the free stage at 8:30 Saturday night. There will also be some great local talent. The band “Reunion” will perform at the American Legion. Members include Peggy Reeder, Dee Buker, John Weakley, Candy Monroe, Cindy Sanner and Fay Renz. One of the area’s most popular entertainers Griz England and his band, The BearTrax, will take the stage Friday night. England says returning home to play for his “hometown folks” is always a thrill. … Read More

Ninth Annual Amish Country Tractor Cruise

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•June 6, 2018• The 9th Annual Amish Country Tractor Cruise is Saturday, June 16 beginning in Arthur. A 48-mile cruise will take riders on a picturesque cruise through the Heart of Illinois Amish Country that includes the communities of Arthur, Chesterville, Garrett, Atwood, Voorhies, and Hammond. Registration for the cruise will begin at 6 a.m. at Yoder’s Kitchen located on IL 133 in Arthur and departs at 8 a.m. A rest stop will be at the Harris Agricultural Museum in Atwood, and lunch will be served by Terry Warren at Gingerich Farms prior to returning to Arthur at approximately 3:30 … Read More