Compiled by Bekki Ferguson-Stevens

25 Years Ago This Week

Sullivan residents Elizabeth and Gretchen Rasmussen, semi-professional country music singers, have been focusing their talents on a new project as of late: a gospel album. For two years, the mother and daughter duo and Sullivan dentist, Dr. Jerry Ozee, have been collaborating on the venture, which will be realized with the arrival of 500 cassette tapes in a couple of weeks. For each of them, it is the culmination of a dream come true.

Sullivan residents Rod Fleming and Mike Piper are the newest emergency medical technicians employed by the Sullivan Fire Protection Dist. Fleming, who previously worked as a firefighter/EMT for the department for three years, rejoined the district as a full-time employee this summer. Fleming is a 1969 graduate of Sullivan High School and has two children, Jason, 16, and Elizabeth, 8. Piper, a 1985 grad, is married. His wife Erika is a licensed practical nurse at the Sullivan Living Center.

Becky Lawson, an English teacher at Sullivan High School, has been recognized for her outstanding contribution to the education of special needs students. She is one of eight recipients from 32 school districts selected by the Eastern Illinois Area of Special Education for its award of merit.     Login or Subscribe to read the rest of this story.