The communities of Argenta, Cisco, and Oreana are coming together for a major celebration next year as plans are now underway for an America 250 event honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The America 250 Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, September 12th, 2026, and organizers say the event is set to bring a full day of patriotic festivities, family-friendly activities, and community pride.

The celebration marks a historic milestone for the United States, commemorating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and local leaders say this event is designed to reflect both the nation’s history and the strong community spirit found across central Illinois.

Festivities planned for the day include a parade featuring local organizations, businesses, and community groups, along with live entertainment throughout the day.

Attendees can also expect local vendors, food options, and activities designed for all ages.

The event will conclude with a fireworks display, giving the day a patriotic finish as the three communities celebrate together.

Organizers say the goal is not only to honor the country’s semiquincentennial, but also to create an opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to come together and celebrate what makes their communities special.

Corrinne Sessions, who is serving as Publicity Chair for the event, says this celebration represents a rare opportunity for the region.

Sessions also says that this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate America’s 250th birthday as a community and that they’re excited to create a fun, memorable experience for families, friends, and neighbors to enjoy together.

The event will be free and open to the public, making it accessible for families throughout the area and beyond.

Organizers are also encouraging strong local involvement as planning continues.

Businesses, civic organizations, and community members are invited to participate in several ways, including entering the parade, setting up as vendors, or volunteering to help make the celebration a success.

Planning committees say additional event details, including a full schedule of activities and information for participants, will be released in the coming months.
 

The Macon County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam involving someone falsely claiming to be a member of law enforcement.

According to the sheriff’s office, a caller identifying himself as “Sgt. Davis” recently contacted a citizen and claimed there was a warrant for their arrest for allegedly missing a grand jury appearance. Officials say the call was fraudulent and part of an ongoing scam targeting residents.

Authorities emphasized that the Macon County Sheriff’s Office does not contact individuals by phone to demand money, threaten arrest, or resolve warrants over the phone.

Residents who receive similar calls are urged not to provide any personal or financial information, send money, or purchase gift cards. Officials advise anyone targeted by the scam to hang up immediately.

Law enforcement also warned that scammers frequently use spoofed phone numbers, making calls appear as though they are coming from a legitimate agency or local number.

Anyone uncertain about the legitimacy of a call is encouraged to contact the Macon County Sheriff’s Office directly at 217-424-1319.

Longview Bank is continuing to expand its presence in Central Illinois with the addition of an experienced banking professional to its growing team. The bank recently announced the hiring of Jessica Woolcott as Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer, and Branch Manager.

Woolcott will initially be based out of Longview Bank’s Tuscola branch before transitioning to the bank’s new Savoy location when that branch officially opens in early fall of 2026. In her new role, Woolcott will serve customers throughout the Savoy, Champaign, and Urbana areas, along with surrounding communities across the region.

Bank officials say Woolcott brings more than two decades of banking and mortgage lending experience to Longview Bank. Most recently, she served as Vice President, Mortgage Lender with Marine Bank and Morton Community Bank in Champaign, where she worked closely with homebuyers and borrowers throughout the lending process.

Woolcott's professional background also includes experience in commercial lending, personal banking, and branch operations, giving her a broad understanding of financial services and customer needs. Throughout her career, Woolcott has helped guide borrowers from the beginning stages of a loan application all the way through closing.

Her experience includes income analysis, loan structuring, closing coordination, and building strong relationships within the communities she serves. They also noted that her approach aligns closely with Longview Bank’s long-standing focus on community banking and local decision making.

The addition of Woolcott comes as Longview Bank continues investing in growth opportunities throughout Central Illinois, including the upcoming opening of the Savoy branch later this year.

Bank leaders say the new Savoy location will help expand access to mortgage lending, banking services, and personalized financial support for residents and businesses in the rapidly growing Champaign-Urbana market. For customers looking to purchase a home, refinance, or explore lending opportunities, Woolcott’s experience and local knowledge are expected to play an important role in helping guide borrowers through the process.

Longview Bank says it is excited to welcome Woolcott to the organization and looks forward to serving even more customers throughout the region as the bank continues to grow.

More information about Longview Bank and its services can be found online at LongviewBank.com.

Pictured below is the bank's newly hired Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer, and Branch Manager, Jessica Woolcott.

Federated Bank is expanding its presence in central Illinois by adding new leadership at its Bradley branch.

The bank has announced the hiring of Jasmine Strohm as Assistant Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer, and Branch Manager. Officials say the move reflects an ongoing effort to grow lending services and strengthen community relationships in the region.

Strohm brings more than a decade of experience in banking and lending. Her background includes mortgage origination, branch management, and working directly with borrowers through every stage of the loan process from application to closing.

Before joining Federated Bank, Strohm served as a loan officer at Municipal Trust and Savings Bank in Bourbonnais. There, she worked in both residential and commercial lending, helping to improve internal loan processes while mentoring staff.

She also previously held positions with U.S. Bank and TCF Bank, where she gained experience in branch operations, compliance, and team leadership.

In her new role, Strohm will oversee daily operations at the Bradley branch while continuing to assist customers with mortgage and lending needs. Bank leaders say she will also focus on building local partnerships and supporting the financial goals of individuals and businesses.

In a statement, company leadership highlighted Strohm’s experience guiding borrowers through complex loan scenarios and her ability to build strong customer relationships.

Strohm says she’s looking forward to leading the Bradley branch and helping customers navigate important financial decisions while supporting community growth.

For more information, you can visit federatedbank.com.

A ribbon cutting took place on Friday, May 8th, at the Lake Lawn Inn, which is tucked just outside of Pana off of Illinois Route 29. This ribbon-cutting was to honor Lake Lawn Inn as the newest member of The Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.

The Lake Lawn Inn has been operating in Pana for many years, serving as a restaurant as well as a motel. The inn has been undergoing several updates under its current ownership. The new updates include themed rooms for the family and kids.

Owner of the Lake Lawn Inn, Jared Cox, spoke with Dylan Clark from Hart Media Group about his inspiration and what pushed him into creating these themed rooms.

According to Cox, the main idea behind his inspiration for these kid-friendly rooms was so the kids can have a place to enjoy that will likely leave them with memories for years to come.

Cox also stated that, considering he's doing all of these themed rooms by himself, with some assistance from his employees, they can take several weeks to even months to complete, compared to a regular room that is not themed.

There are multiple theme options, including a lodge-style log cabin theme where the kids' room is actually built to look like the inside and outside of a cozy cabin. The kids' personal cabin also features a built-in slide.

There is a pirate-themed room, featuring a large pirate ship with an in-deck cabin room for the kids' beds. The inn will also give those who rent this room a pirate hat, eye patch, and inflatable sword for the kids to really feel like pirates and for their imagination to take them to the sea.

One other room, which is nearing completion but not quite finished yet, is a space excursion room. This room features a space shuttle-style sleeping arrangement for the kids and a futuristic spaceship feel to the entire room. From textured walls to a “Star Trek” style entertainment system, resembling a flight deck command center on a spaceship.

Pictured below is Lake Lawn Inn's Owner, Jared Cox (Left), next to his wife, Lily Cox, holding a bow made from the ribbon that was cut during the ceremony, followed by a picture of Jared cutting the ribbon.

Details on the Lake Lawn Inn can be found at www.lakelawninn.com
For information on The Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, visit www.taylorvillechamber.com
 

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is beginning to solidify plans for certain elements of this year’s Chillifest.  Cook-offs are set for each day of the festival, with the goal of drawing further participation in the chili component of the weekend.  Chamber Board President Krystal Baker says winners will qualify for the world championships. 

Separate from Chillifest, the Chamber is hosting a contest for community members to post pictures on Facebook of porch geese that they own.  The prize for the winner is a Chamber gift card.

More information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is available at www.taylorvillechamber.com.

Krystal Baker appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Christian County Sheriff, Bruce Kettelkamp, gives congratulations to Olive Goodall from rural Pawnee for her being awarded one of the many Illinois Sheriffs’ Association (ISA) Scholarships.

According to Sheriff Kettelkamp, Goodall was selected from a number of highly qualified applicants in the Christian County area. Sheriff Kettelkamp also stated that Sheriffs around Illinois consider this particular scholarship to be an investment into the applicant’s better future and that it is also a strong demonstration of their respect and support for education.

During the 2026 - 2027 academic year, the ISA awarded a total so far of 123 scholarships throughout the state of Illinois. These scholarships were all awarded to students who are wishing to pursue higher education during the 2026 - 2027 school year.

For more information on scholarship opportunities, visit www.ilsheriff.org

Pictured below is Chief Deputy Jim Baker (LEFT) and the scholarship recipient, Olive Goodall (RIGHT).

Christian County residents will have a chance to weigh in on zoning-related issues later this month.
The Christian County Zoning Board of Appeals is set to hold a public hearing on Monday, May 18th at 12:30 p.m. The meeting will take place in the County Board Room on the second floor of the Christian County Courthouse in Taylorville.

During the hearing, board members will discuss several items, including potential text amendments to the county zoning code, ongoing ordinance research, regulations involving wireless internet antennas, and 911 collocation and access.

The board will also consider referrals from the Christian County Board.

Officials say documents related to rezoning requests, variances, special use applications, and proposed text amendments are available for public inspection at the Christian County Zoning Office on South Main Street in Taylorville.

Residents with questions or those seeking more information can contact the zoning office directly.

The Taylorville Police Department is recognizing Executive Secretary Kirsten Nelson for her outstanding performance in her career.

Nelson has been named Employee of the First Quarter for 2026, an honor, department leaders say, that reflects not only her dedication but also the crucial role she plays in daily operations. According to Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler, Nelson handles a wide range of responsibilities that help keep the department running smoothly.

Nelson’s duties include paying bills, ordering supplies, and preparing criminal cases for prosecution. All of those tasks are hard work that requires organization, attention to detail, and professionalism. One of the most important parts of her position is helping ensure criminal cases are properly prepared for the court process.

Department officials say the work takes countless hours and is essential to keeping cases moving through the legal system. Nelson also serves as the liaison between the police department and the State’s Attorney’s Office.

As the Christian County seat and one of the busiest law enforcement agencies in the region, Taylorville Police say the position comes with significant daily demands and pressure. In addition, Nelson serves as the department’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) officer. Last year alone, she reportedly handled more than 600 FOIA requests.

So far this year, she has already processed more than 300 requests, with that number continuing to increase each week. Chief Wheeler described Nelson as the backbone of the department, praising her reliability, professionalism, loyalty, and strong work ethic.

The department thanked Nelson for her continued dedication and congratulated her on being named Employee of the First Quarter for 2026.

Pictured below are Employee Of The Quarter, Kirsten Nelson (LEFT), and Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler (RIGHT)

For more news, stay tuned to WTIM, Your Only Local News Radio, and keep your eye on taylorvilledailynews.com

The Taylorville School District is busy overseeing construction projects on both the forthcoming Fine Arts Center and at North Elementary School.  The latter project is intended to rectify space limitations at the school and is expected to be completed in time for next school year.  The school district has sorted the work into multiple phases, aiming for efficiency in terms of both time and costs.

School Board President Ann Chandler has played a significant role in the projects.  She says the North school work became a higher priority in part because classes had to share spaces or use smaller rooms. 

The construction at that school began during spring break.  Workers plan to add four new rooms to the building. 

As for how the multiple projects are being funded, the district purchased bonds totaling $15 million and is also using revenue from the 1% sales tax. 

The North school project had originally been set to be done after work at the high school, including the new athletic space.  The school district also intends to look into renovations at Memorial Elementary School, the building of which is over a century old. 

More information on Taylorville Community Unit School District #3 is available at www.tcusd3.org.

Ann Chandler appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our monthly Taylorville Schools Good News Segment. 

Christian County Court has denied a motion to reconsider pretrial detention conditions for Brian M. Grove, who is charged with possession and distribution of child sexual abuse materials.

As a result, Judge J. Marc Kelly granted Grove release under several strict pretrial conditions. Those conditions include GPS monitoring, home confinement, no internet access through phones or computers, no possession of dangerous weapons, and no contact with anyone under the age of 18. 

According to court records, Grove appeared in custody in Christian County Court with his attorney, Thomas Finks. Today’s hearing was for the court to review a motion seeking changes to his pretrial detention status.

The court considered arguments from both parties, including claims related to Grove’s medical treatment, but ultimately ruled that the medical concerns did not amount to a change in circumstances.

During the hearing, the court also addressed the issue of his level of danger to the community. Court records state that Grove submitted several Rule 23 appellate cases for consideration.

While acknowledgment of those opinions was not binding, the judge noted that the cited cases excluded child pornography related offenses from being considered dangerous to the community.

This was a position that Judge Kelly strongly disagreed with.

Despite those concerns, the court determined that there were less restrictive alternatives available, other than continued detention, that could help mitigate any threat to the community.

Grove will now await his next hearing out of custody, but still restricted by the court with pretrial conditions.

Keep an eye on taylorvilledailynews.com for further updates after his next court hearing.

Grove is scheduled to appear in court next for pretrial proceedings on June 11th at 10 AM.

The highest-level men’s soccer team in central Illinois is about to kick off its second season in USL League Two.  Springfield FC will open the 2026 season on Wednesday, May 20 at 7 p.m. at home to St. Louis Ambush at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School’s football field.  USL League Two is a fourth-tier competition with 143 clubs across the country.  The Stags finished fifth out of the six teams in the Great Plains Division last year.  They are hoping their comprehensive recruitment process and rigorous preparation will lead to greater success this summer.

Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children and can be purchased either on the team’s website or at the venue.  Head Coach Jack Turanchik says the matchday experience is a great value considering the ticket prices and the quality of the soccer. 

The USL League Two season runs through the summer and ends before the college soccer season begins.  As such, most members of the squad are college players.  There is also international talent, including players with connections to major European clubs. 

Turanchik says their recruitment strategy for this season focused on players from successful college programs and those who played regularly with their team.

The squad also consists of some local connections, including one who played at Sacred Heart-Griffin, where Springfield FC’s home matches will take place. 

More information on Springfield FC is available at www.springfield-fc.com.  More information on USL League Two is available at www.uslleaguetwo.com.

Jack Turanchik appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

54-year-old Michael Boliard of Decatur was arrested on several recent charges following an incident with a crossbow. 

Boliard has now been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, Class A Misdemeanor, and armed violence, a Class 2 Felony.

Boliard was also charged with possession of a controlled substance.

On April 22, 2026, just after 9:20 a.m., Decatur Police were called to the 400 block of East William Street for a report of an armed individual, later identified as Boliard.

Officers located the suspect, who at one point reportedly pointed a crossbow at them. Police then discharged their weapons, striking Boliard.

Officers immediately rendered aid at the scene before Boliard was taken to a local hospital with injuries. Boliard has since been released and is now in police custody. 

Illinois State Police currently has an ongoing independent and thorough investigation of the incident and has also presented the case to the Macon County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Illinois Insider’s Mark Hespen recently interviewed Illinois Republican Senators Steve McClure and Jason Plummer. During this interview, McClure and Plummer shared their views on redistricting.

Senator McClure explained different issues in redistricting and redrawing maps. According to McClure, issues stem heavily from Governor JB Pritzker. McClure mentioned that Pritzker refuses to sign off on any new maps that were drawn by any politicians.

McClure added that this refusal contradicts some of Governor Pritzker’s campaign promises.

When it came time for Senator Plummer to voice his thoughts, Plummer said that when they drew maps the last time, the Democrats began acting as they had never before. Plummer also stated that the maps are going to cause impacts on judicial circuits, state representatives and senators, as well as congressional candidates.

Meanwhile, the Illinois Democrats have stated that they can’t just sit back and watch Republicans and the courts erode the protection of voter rights and do nothing. This mindset has left Illinois Democrats in a position where they say they now must figure out a new way to approach the situation.

Immediately after the ruling was announced, Illinois Democrats in the state Senate moved to table a ballot measure designed to protect redistricting. This will be accomplished through enshrining redistricting protections in the IL state constitution.

Governor JB Pritzker has signaled he would enter the redistricting fight if Republicans begin gerrymandering their states for the midterm election.

Get more news online at taylorvilledailynews.com.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is partnering with several local organizations to bring the community together for a night of entertainment and mental health awareness.

The Movie in the Park event is set for Saturday, May 30th, at Manners Park in Taylorville. Activities will begin at 7 PM, and the movie will start at sunset. Attendance at movie night is free of charge.

Families can enjoy a screening of the Disney-Pixar film Inside Out, which explores emotions and mental well-being in a way that’s accessible for all ages.

Organizers say the goal of the event is to create a relaxed, welcoming space where families can have fun while also opening the door to important conversations about mental health.

Jay Boulanger, a community health consultant with Taylorville Memorial Hospital, says the evening is designed to bring people together in a positive environment while raising awareness about emotional wellness.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating. Free popcorn will be available, and the park’s concession stand will also be open.

The event is free and open to the public, with no registration required.

In addition to Taylorville Memorial Hospital, sponsors include the Taylorville Park District, Memorial Behavioral Health, the Christian County Health Department, and the Christian County Prevention Coalition.

For more information, contact Jay Boulanger via email at boulanger.jay@mhsil.com
 

The Taylorville Food Pantry is contending with an increase in foot traffic this month compared to April, and the trend is expected to continue.  This adjustment is normal at this time of year with school ending and children no longer receiving meals there.  However, increases in gas prices are straining pocketbooks even further.

Amy Hagen, a co-coordinator at the Taylorville Food Pantry, says despite the increase in demand, their shelves are well stocked. 

Hagen credits the community and outside businesses and organizations for stepping up in the time of need to keep the supply high. 

The increase in visitors from April to May is similar to that of last year.  Pam Moses, another co-coordinator with the Taylorville Food Pantry, says the consistency helps them plan for what’s to come. 

Beyond their walls, the Taylorville Food Pantry has partnered with several local organizations who are now offering micro-pantries in town.  They are located at the Christian County Probation Office and Health Department and the Taylorville Public Library and Township building. 

The co-coordinators learned of the micro-pantries and, understanding they had similar missions, opted to partner with the organizations involved. 

The Taylorville Food Pantry is located at 1429 East Main Cross.  They are open Tuesdays from 8:30-10 a.m., Thursdays from 5:30-7 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30-9:30 a.m.  More information is available at www.taylorvillefoodpantry.com or by calling them at (217) 820-2651.

Amy Hagen and Pam Moses appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County Fair may still be two-and-a-half months out, but the fairgrounds will see action this weekend.  Mother’s Day Mayhem will take place at the grandstand on Saturday.  Organizers hope it will give the community a taste of what to expect when the fair itself takes place from July 21-25.

Angela Ohl-Marsters is the marketing and promotions director for the Christian County Fair.  She says this is the debut edition of Mother’s Day Mayhem. 

Ohl-Marsters adds that the event was scheduled this early due in part to the packed event schedule during the actual fair and also to avoid clashing with other major local events. 

More information on the Christian County Fair is available at www.christiancountyfair.com.

Angela Ohl-Marsters appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning show.

Fourth grade students from across Christian County got a hands-on lesson in conservation and environmental stewardship during a special Conservation Day event. The program, hosted by University of Illinois Extension at the Christian County Fairgrounds, brought together about 250 students from Pana, Taylorville, and Edinburg schools.

Designed as an outdoor, field trip-style experience, Conservation Day featured a series of interactive learning stations focused on environmental science, conservation careers, and safety.
Students rotated through sessions covering a wide range of topics, including wildlife, soil and water conservation, forestry, fisheries, pollinators, beekeeping, waste management, grain bin safety, and prescribed fire safety.

The stations were led by community partners, government agencies, and conservation experts. Participating organizations included IFish Illinois, Illinois Conservation Police, Pheasants Forever, Farm Service Agency, and the Family Beekeepers of Illinois.

Extension officials say the event is designed to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. They add that by working directly with conservation professionals and volunteers, students gain a better understanding of how natural resources are managed and how they can help protect them.

Organizers say the day also gave students and teachers a chance to engage with local experts, ask questions, and build awareness of conservation practices that impact their communities.

For more information on future youth environmental programs, you can contact the Christian County Extension office.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club met Tuesday for its regular business meeting luncheon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  

Members were informed that numbers were still being calculated regarding the recent Pancake and Sausage Breakfast fundraiser.  Club Treasurer Blain Cornwell confirmed that the event was a success and extended his appreciation to the community for supporting the club.  A special thank you was given to the Taylorville High School Key Club for their assistance with the fundraiser.

Duane Stock stated that the Kiwanis Park was in good shape for summertime activities.  New Cornhole playing boards have been installed at the park for use by the public and the large pavilion has many confirmed bookings already for the upcoming season.  Reservations for use of the large pavilion can be made through the City Clerks’ office at Taylorville City Hall.

Chuck Martin presented a listing of upcoming meeting programs that have been scheduled for the months of May and June.  

Club President Tim Sutton reminded Kiwanis members the club will be hosting its annual picnic beginning at 6:00pm the evening of May 19th at Kiwanis Park.  Winners of the Taylorville High School Kiwanis scholarships will be recognized that evening.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.  Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com or email the club at TaylorvilleKiwanis@gmail.com
 

An upcoming event in Christian County is set to bring some high-impact entertainment just ahead of Mother’s Day.

The Christian County Mother’s Day Mayhem 2026 will take place on Saturday, May 9th, with activities beginning at 4 p.m. Organizers say participant check-in runs from 1 to 4 p.m., with the main crashing events scheduled to start at 5.

The event, presented by Shaner Promotions, will feature multiple demolition derby classes, including youth compact, gut-and-go compact, light weld compact, bone stock full-size, and a class for minivans, mini trucks, and SUVs.

Cash payouts will be awarded across all divisions, with top prizes ranging from several hundred dollars up to 12 hundred dollars, depending on the class. Organizers note that a minimum of 10 cars is required in each class for maximum payouts.

There will also be a kids’ Power Wheels event starting at 4 p.m., with options to bring your own or use one provided.

More information on registration and event details can be found through Shaner Promotions.

Patients in Illinois may soon see changes in how prescriptions are handled when medications are out of stock.

The Illinois Senate has unanimously passed Senate Bill 3213 (SB 3213), a measure aimed at expanding the ability of pharmacies to transfer prescriptions to other locations.

The legislation was introduced by Illinois State Senator Steve McClure.

Under current state law, certain prescriptions cannot be transferred between pharmacies as easily as federal guidelines allow.

This could cause issues, potentially even life-threatening, if, for any reason, a vital medication could not be acquired due to a lack of stock and the inability to transfer.

Supporters of the bill say this can create challenges for patients when medications are unavailable at their usual pharmacy, sometimes requiring a new prescription from a doctor.

SB 3213 would move Illinois law closer to matching federal standards, allowing a broader range of prescriptions to be electronically transferred between pharmacies.

Those in support of SB 3213 argue that this could streamline the process for patients trying to obtain medications during shortages or supply issues.

According to McClure, the proposal was prompted by concerns raised by a constituent who works as a physician.

The bill now moves to the Illinois House of Representatives for further consideration.

For more information on the bills being run through the Senate or the House, go to ilga.gov.

As National Small Business Month highlights the impact of locally owned companies, one Central Illinois business is celebrating a milestone only a small few can match.

Wright’s Furniture and Flooring is marking 137 years of continuous operation, spanning five generations of family ownership and decades of change from the Great Depression to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The business has long been a staple in the region. Company President John Wright says that longevity wouldn’t be possible without strong community support.

The company’s roots date back to 1889, when G.W. Wright purchased a local furniture store and funeral parlor, four years before the village of Dieterich was officially incorporated.

What started as a small storefront has since grown into multiple locations. The store is now employing around 40 people across Central Illinois.

In recent years, the company has expanded beyond furniture and flooring. The store has now launched its own mattress line, known as “Wright Sleep”, along with personalized interior design services through “Wright at Home.”

That growth also includes giving back to the community. Two years ago, the Wright family helped lead efforts to open a 24-hour fitness facility in Dieterich, now known as the Wright Family Center, offering courts, workout space, and community event rooms.

The company also launched “Wright’s Cares,” supporting organizations like St. Jude, Meals on Wheels, Blessings in a Backpack, and the Girl Scouts of Central Illinois.

Vice President Alex Wright says relationships remain the foundation of their success.

Today, Wright’s Furniture and Flooring continues to serve customers across the region, all while carrying on a 137-year-long legacy.

For more information on Wright's Furniture, visit www.wrightsfurniture.com/

Thursday is the National Day of Prayer, and a gathering in Pana looks to bring local observers of a variety of faiths together.  It’s set for that day at 7:30 a.m. at The Well on 118 South Locust Street.  The event is expected to be short, to allow attendees to go to work thereafter.  Pana’s prayer event is the culmination of the collaboration of multiple local places of worship as well as other businesses and organizations.

Rev. Jessica Baldyga, the pastor at the First United Methodist Church in Pana, will be among the speakers.  She says other local religious leaders in town will also speak. 

Rev. Baldyga adds that the speakers and attendees come from different sectors of different religions, yet are united in the beliefs shared at the National Day of Prayer. 

The local businesses involved with the Pana service work to promote the event and handle other logistics before it takes place. 

Each speaker will offer prayers on a specific area of society.  Rev. Baldyga will focus on the media. 

More information on the National Day of Prayer is available at www.nationaldayofprayer.org.

Rev. Jessica Baldyga appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.  

On May 5th, State Representative Brad Halbrook addressed the Illinois House of Representatives. During his address, Halbrook advocated for a 6-month pause on the motor fuel tax in Illinois, along with a pause on the automatic CPI increase scheduled for July 1st, 2026.

Halbrook wrapped up by giving real-world implications of the IL gas tax, and what is at stake if lawmakers don’t step in and make motions to provide relief at the gas pump.

Halbrook said he is hopeful that the Illinois House of Representatives’ Democratic majority will take meaningful action to address high gas taxes, as well as any taxes that currently are burdening the people of Illinois. Halbrook hopes to see this result happen before the General Assembly adjourns on May 31st.

Gov. JB Pritzker is calling on Congress to allow the permanent year-round use of E15 gasoline, a blend of 15% ethanol and 85% gasoline that is cheaper than regular fuel and increases demand for corn.

Governor JB Pritzker has recently been outspoken about E15 gasoline, stating that it will help spur domestic energy production and stabilize fuel markets.

To watch Halbrook's floor speech, CLICK HERE.

For more information, please contact Halbrook’s office at 217-342-0220 or visit his website at RepHalbrook.com.

With summer approaching, the Christian County YMCA is preparing to welcome youth in the community to its various camps.  Many of the programs will feature engaging field trips, while others will simply help them stay active.  Executive Director Bruce Blanshan says Allison Curtin – who was named Ms. Basketball of Illinois in 1998 in her time playing at Taylorville High School – will lead the summer’s basketball camp.

The Bigfoot Bootcamp will return for a second year.  This camp will get participants into nature and exploring. 

Separate from the camps, Blanshan also addressed recent temporary closures of the pool at the Y.  He says it’s for hosting lifeguard clinics amid a shortage of lifeguards.

More information on the Christian County YMCA, as well as registration for any of the aforementioned programs, is available at www.ccymca.org.

Bruce Blanshan appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.