IL State Fire Marshal Awards $1.5 Million in Grants

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•March 22, 2023• The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has announced the recipients of the 2023 Small Equipment Grant Program. A total of $1.5 million was awarded to 64 fire departments/districts and EMS providers across the state. The program was established to provide grants of up to $26,000 each for the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment. Lovington Community Ambulance is a recipient of a grant in the amount of $26,000. This program is an innovative approach to a problem that has long caused difficulties for fire departments and not-for profit ambulance services in Illinois, particularly … Read More

“Safeguarding Tomorrow” Low-Interest Loans Available to Illinois Communities

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•March 22, 2023• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced the formation of the new Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Program to help with hazardous mitigation projects at the local level. While funding for this program has not yet been authorized for Illinois, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) needs to document program interest among our communities in order to be considered for the grant. … Read More

Home Food Preservation Doesn’t Need to be Difficult; Learn how to Safely Preserve

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•March 22, 2023• There is a common belief that food preservation is difficult. However, with the right equipment and proper education, anyone can enjoy garden fresh foods all year long by preserving at home. Join University of Illinois Extension at the Arthur Public Library for a two-hour Saturday workshop to unlock the mystery of food preservation. … Read More

Obituaries 3-22-2023: Mary Wagahoft

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Mary Wagahoft Mary Kristina Wagahoft, 78, of Decatur, passed away Monday, March 13, 2023, at Eagle Ridge Assisted Living of Decatur, IL. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, March 25, at Graceland Fairlawn in Decatur. Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday. Burial will be in Keller Cemetery in Lovington, directly following the service. Dinner will be provided for family and friends at Northwest Christian Church after the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Moultrie County Historical & Genealogical Society, 1303 South Hamilton Street, Sullivan, IL 61951. … Read More

March is National Ladder Safety Month

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•March 22, 2023• The Illinois Department of Labor’s (IDOL) Division of Occupational Health and Safety (IL OSHA) and On-Site Consultation Program are highlighting 2023 National Ladder Safety Month to promote the safe use of ladders and the opportunity to be certified in ladder safety training. … Read More