Sullivan Fire Department: free smoke detectors for homeowners

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•March 12, 2025• by D.M. Williamee The City of Sullivan Fire Department will provide free smoke detectors and install them for local homeowners in their fire district. They will also provide free smoke detectors to renters if the landlord contacts the fire department on behalf of the tenant. Landlords are required to have both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in rental units. Sullivan Fire Chief Chris Wright stated, “natural gas detectors are also a great idea if you have natural gas appliances in the home, as people can become “nose blind” to the smell over time.” … Read More

City approves union contract, TIF agreements

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•March 12, 2025• by Sharon Barricklow The Sullivan City Council approved a new labor contract, some tax increment financing agreements, and a plan to hold monthly entertainment on the city square during a busy meeting Monday night. The council approved an agreement with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)  for a new contract for city Water Department workers. The agreement still needs to be ratified by union members. “We think it’s a good agreement,” said council member Chuck Woodworth. … Read More

One Book, One Sullivan: public book discussion with students

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Pictured are the One Book, One Sullivan student participants and teacher/advisor Rikki Ray. •March 12, 2025• by D.M. Williamee Founded in 2007, and funded by Rotary under Rotary Club’s reading initiative, “One Book, One Sullivan” connects middle school and high school students with the community at large through reading. Each yearly event allows students to interact with adults in the community where they discuss the book chosen by the students. Students learn better communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills in this program, monthly student meetings and this yearly public event.  … Read More

Winter utility bill help is available

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•March 12, 2025• The C.E.F.S Economic Opportunity Corporation’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) still has funding available for winter utility assistance. LIHEAP provides one-time grants to help income eligible households pay for their winter heating expenses.     Any household that has applied as of October 1, 2024, or after would not be eligible to apply again unless they are being disconnected from their utility service. Applications will be taken on a first come-first serve basis through August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted.   C.E.F.S. began taking LIHEAP applications on October 1, 2024, for the current program … Read More

BFD annual pancake breakfast

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•March 12, 2025• The Bethany Fire Department will be hosting their annual pancake breakfast on March 15th from 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the Bethany Fire Department.  Breakfast options are either pancakes and sausage or biscuits and gravy. Cost is $12.00 for adults, $8.00 for kids, and those 3 and under eat free. … Read More

American Red Cross blood drive

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•March 12, 2025• Lovington Christian Church will be hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive in their Fellowship Hall on Monday, March 31st from noon to 5:30 p.m at 301 S. County Road in Lovington. You can schedule an appointment by calling Darlene Barlow at (217) 855-9397, online at www.RedCrossBlood.org, but walk-ins are welcome. Remember to bring a photo ID, your blood donor card, or at least two other forms of identification. … Read More

Ten Dolphins qualify for Circle City Classic

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Sullivan Blue Dolphins sent 10 swimmer to the Circle City Classic Invitational in Indianapolis, IN. This is a meet in which swimmers must swim qualifying time to get into the meet. At this meet SBD’s Emily Crosier took down the 500 free record that once was held by BNSC’s coach Brynna who is a former Blue Dolphin.  Pictured are the 10 swimmers who made it. Grant Martin, Nathan Rafferty, Emily Crosier, Addy Hendry, Emerson Risley, Kylan Hall, Mack Pogue, Bryce Badman, Kinsley Eads and Cadence Schmohe (not pictured). … Read More

Blue Dolphins Compete

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Dolphins to compete in Winter Regional Championship Sullivan Blue Dolphins also are sending 18 swimmers to Winter Regional Championship in Peoria. This swimmers all swam qualifying times to complete in individuals events. Pictured are Grant Martin, Nathan Rafferty, Emily Crosier, Addy Hendry, Cadence Schmohe, Michaela Blickensderfer, Tyler Blickensderfer, Jace VanUytven, Kylan Hall, Avery Hess, Mack Pogue, Bryce Badman, Scarlett Perrott, Emme Kirkley, Kinsley Eads, Oliver Florey and Jack VanUytven. … Read More

First Mid Bank & Trust promotes John West to Regional Community Bank President

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•March 5, 2025• First Mid Bank & Trust announced the promotion of John West to Regional Community Bank President. West will be responsible for business development, community engagement initiatives, and supporting and strengthening lending relationships in First Mid’s Decatur Region.  “We are thrilled to have John take on the role of Regional Community Bank President,” said Joe Dively, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at First Mid. “He has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a deep commitment to our customers, and a passion for fostering strong community relationships. We are confident that under his leadership, our Decatur Region will continue to thrive and … Read More