As the search for the next Taylorville School District Superintendent continues a recent sign-up only stakeholder meeting was held where the public voiced their opinions on what qualities they would like in the next superintendent. President of the Taylorville School board, Brenda Patrick, said the candidates answered questions and heard from the public.

Patrick was unable to disclose the names of the candidates due to confidentialities.
 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News on December, 12th for the regularly scheduled Taylorville School Board meeting at the district office for more information.

New programs have been announced for the Shelbyville Public Library that further tell the community that their library is more than just a depository for books. A drop-in Christmas ornament-making class will be held on Saturday, December 9th at the Shelbyville Public Library, starting at 9:00 a.m. for all ages.

Monica Cameron, Executive Director for the Shelbyville Public Library works hard with her staff to provide new and relevant programs for their community.

On Wednesday, December 13h at 10:45 a.m. the opening of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library will be presented for Shelbyville Public Library. This program, made possible by United Way of Decatur Mid-Illinois and Shelby Electric Cooperative, registered children will have fresh reading material for the whole year.

This program is for kids ages 1-4 and the opening for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library will be in the kids section of the library.

Monica Cameron appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show, live from our downtown studios in Shelbyville.
 

Illinois State Treasurer Mike Frerichs announced that the holiday season brings an extra dose of cheer for Illinoisans, as Christmas, Happy Holidays, Santa, Rudolph, and even Scrooge are among the millions of names listed in the state's missing money database. This surprise of unclaimed cash and property is awaiting rightful owners, creating an opportunity for some unexpected holiday financial boost.

Frerichs expressed the festive spirit saying, it's the most wonderful time of the year, and returning missing money to the rightful owners is even more special during this season. He encouraged residents to discover if they have any forgotten funds by entering their names at illinoistreasurer.gov/icash.

Unclaimed property, defined as money or accounts with no activity for several years, is entrusted to the State Treasurer when the legal owner fails to respond to inquiries. This includes unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts, and unused rebate cards.

With an estimated one in four adults in Illinois finding missing money through the treasurer's database, the average claim is $1,000. Frerichs has overseen the return of over $1.9 billion in unclaimed property, marking a record-setting performance resulting from a comprehensive restructuring of the missing money process. The state treasurer's office has streamlined the claims process, introduced electronic claims, and leveraged technology for easy payments.

In a recent initiative, the Treasurer's Office launched the Enhanced Money Match program, sending letters to over 140,000 individuals by cross-referencing state-collected data with the missing money database. The program aims to simplify the process for unclaimed property owners, providing details about the amount and source of the money.

With a focus on the ease of the claims process, recipients must only watch their mail and cash the check, with the Treasurer's Office conducting additional security measures. Frerichs recommends that residents check for missing money at least twice a year, emphasizing the ongoing effort to reunite Illinois residents with their unclaimed assets. To see if any missing money awaits, individuals are encouraged to visit illinoistreasurer.gov/icash.

The Miller Media Group's NEW Country 104-point-one is debuting a new show today.

Students in the Tommy TV video production class at Taylorville High School, are hosting a new afternoon show from 4 til 6 weekdays on that station.

Several different students enrolled in the Tommy TV class, are getting the experience in being on-the-air and recording segments that are airing in the daily 2-hour show.

Find out more on their new show, and see some of the students participating, on the NEW Counry 104-point-one Facebook page.

The kitchen will become increasingly busier as we near Christmas and New Year’s, and extra care and attention must be paid to the cleanliness of your cooking space and food. Lisa Peterson, Nutrition and Wellness Educator for the University of Illinois Extension says that salmonella can remain on a non-sanitized surface for 32 hours.

steps as simple as proper hand washing is the first defense against food-borne illnesses that can end the Christmas fun.

for the oven and other cooking areas, Peterson says it is imperative to keep these areas clean and sanitized, and for those looking to hold their yearly kitchen cleaning, the Extensions resources are here to help.

All of this cleanliness information and more can be found at extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/cleaning-sanitizing-kitchen.

Lisa Peterson appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Illinois has been awarded a significant federal grant of $95.1 million by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to elevate its passenger rail infrastructure across the state. The allocation includes a substantial portion of almost $94 million dedicated to the rejuvenation and modernization of Chicago's Union Station, a pivotal transportation hub. Governor JB Pritzker praised the grant, highlighting Illinois' central position in the nation's transport network and emphasizing the strides made to modernize the state's railways.

The grant, a result of the collaborative efforts between the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the FRA, and the Biden Administration, includes two grants totaling $93.6 million, focusing on the Chicago Hub Improvement Program. This initiative aims to enhance rail services and operations not only in Chicago but also across the Midwest. The funds will facilitate upgrades in Union Station's accessibility features for riders with disabilities, renovation of outdated ventilation systems, and expansion of station platforms to accommodate the nearly 120,000 daily Amtrak and Metra train passengers.

Moreover, as part of the FRA's Corridor Identification and Development Program, IDOT received $1.5 million for planning enhancements in three state-supported rail corridors: Chicago to Carbondale, Chicago to St. Louis, and Chicago to Quad Cities. These grants will aid in developing comprehensive plans, schedules, and cost estimates, paving the way for future federal funding opportunities for construction and implementation. The Illinois Transportation Secretary, Omer Osman, hailed these grants as crucial steps in advancing Illinois' comprehensive transportation system, positioning the state as a North American transport hub. Governor Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital program, with a commitment of over $1 billion to enhance rail statewide, underscores the state's dedication to transforming and expanding its passenger rail services for the future.

For more information visit Illinoisrail.org
 

For those looking to stay local this New Year’s Eve while still wanting to celebrate properly with, food, friends, drinks, and music, Florinda’s on the Taylorville Square will be opening their doors at 9:00 p.m. for a New Year's Eve Party. The party will be held in Florinda’s large event room right next door to their 114 South Main Street location. Attendees can expect finger-food appetizers from Florinda’s menu, a local DJ, and champagne on hand to toast as the community rings in the new year.

Florinda Guerriero, Owner and Operator of Florinda’s has been working the restaurant since its inception in 2000. Florinda explained that this is the first year to host a New Year's Eve party and she is excited to see the community enjoy a celebration in their own town.

Florinda’s Main restaurant will be open for dining on the day of the party but Florinda says the kitchen will keep pumping out authentic Italian for the party.

Guerriero’s story, coming to the United States from Italy when she was 13 to the Town of Taylorville was destiny she said, and is happy to now be in a position to hold a celebration for the entire community.

The New Year's Eve party will be held in the door to the left of Florinda’s, located at 114 South Main Street in Taylorville.

The Christian County March 2024 primary ballot is set, with several Republican races.

In the race for Circuit Clerk with incumbent Julie Mayer retiring, the Republican ballot has Jessica Franks and Jeffrey Voorhees as candidates.

In the race for Christian County Coroner with incumbent Amy Calvert Winans' retirement, Austin Peters and Michael Assalley will square off.

Republicans will have challengers in several Christian County Board districts.

In County Board District One, Glen F. Goodrich, Jr is challenging incumbents Clint Gabriel and Venise McWard.    In District 2, incumbents Ken Franklin and Thomas Snyder Jr. will be joined by challenger Mark Wolfe.  And, in District 3, incumbents Mike Specha and David Buckles will be joined by Thomas Snyder Sr. on the ballot.  

The Illinois primary is Tuesday, March 19th.

The world of finances and investments can be confusing and intimidating to many who do not want to make the wrong move with their hard-earned dollars. CNB Bank and Trust in Taylorville is here to help clear this confusion and set clients on the right track for financial success in their future. Mike Oeser, a Business Development and Wealth Management Officer for CNB Bank and Trust, meets with individuals and businesses to find the best fiscal options for them.
Oeser begins by explaining the cost-free initial consultation.

CNB Bank and Trust is a fiduciary advising group, meaning their advisors are held to a higher standard and are legally and ethically bound to provide their clients with the path that suits their best interests.

One service one can find at CNB Bank and Trust is the individual management accounts that focus on a single earner and how they can best approach their finances for success in the future.

Oeser says he is available to answer questions the local community may have about their saving and investing habits at 217-408-0114.

Mike Oeser appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

December and January are usually times when runny noses, sore throats, and coughs are back in season. Often, parents have to deal with kids getting sick from school or social gatherings and other events that may spread germs. Dr. Kimberly Walker, a family medicine physician with OSF Healthcare says that there is plenty of ways to treat sickness with over-the-counter medicine.  

For children and adults, other products such as Vicks VapoRub can do the trick. 

One option that can do the trick, but doesn’t get talked about a lot is celery.

For Dr. Walker, hand washing is key. Teach kids to cough into their sleeve, and not into the air, to stop spreading the virus. She also encourages parents to keep children hydrated.

For babies and infants, medicine isn’t always an option.  There are ways to provide comfort though to newborns.

Decongestants can help.  But knowing what to choose, can be a tough decision.

Colds and viruses tend to last one to two weeks, but if you have symptoms that linger longer, reach out to your primary care physician. 

In an effort to spread joy to children this Christmas, Edward Jones is matching donations of funds up to $500 to a non-profit organization of an advisor's choosing. Keri Austwick, an Edward Jones Financial Advisor for the Taylorville location has chosen Toys for Tots as her non-profit organization and has donated the maximum $500 which has been matched by Edward Jones and will go to Toys for Tots.

Edward Jones in Taylorville is now collecting unwrapped presents for kids of all ages, inside their business located at 601 North Webster Street in Taylorville. Austwick begins with her inspiration for including Toys for Tots in the initiative's first year.

Austwick explains how the local community can get involved.

Austwick explained that teenagers are often hard to shop for when donating to Toys for Tots, adding that toys for youngsters are easy but knowing what a teen wants is important to keep this in mind while shopping for someone in need.

Donations are being accepted now through December 20th at Edward Jones in Taylorville at 601 North Webster Street in Taylorville. For more information, the community can call 217-824-7811.

Keri Austwick appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

In a recent initiative to safeguard the public from increasing holiday scams, the FBI Springfield is urging citizens to stay vigilant against vindictive fraudsters seeking both money and personal information. Special Agent in Charge David Nanz emphasized the evolving tactics employed by scammers, urging individuals to exercise caution and conduct due diligence to thwart their efforts.

The FBI's 2022 Internet Crime Report revealed alarming statistics, with 14,786 Illinoisans falling victim to scams, resulting in a staggering $266.7 million in losses. Social media platforms are identified as breeding grounds for scams, particularly those disguised as holiday promotions or contests, leading unsuspecting users to participate in surveys designed to steal personal information.

The agency cautions against downloading mobile apps from unknown sources, especially those disguised as games, as they can lead to the theft of sensitive information. Various scams, including non-payment/non-delivery, investment, work-from-home, gift card, and charity scams, share common traits such as enticing offers, requests for swift action, and payment through nontraditional means like gift cards or quick payment transfer services.

To minimize the risk of falling victim to scams, the FBI recommends routine credit card statement checks, purchasing from reputable online sources, and exercising caution with website security claims. Additionally, individuals are advised not to respond to unsolicited emails, avoid clicking on links within emails, and refrain from providing personal information through email forms.

The FBI stresses the importance of donating only to known and trusted charities, securing credit card accounts with strong passwords, and remaining skeptical of exaggerated claims of earnings or profits. 

The public is encouraged to contact their financial institutions immediately if they believe they are victims of scams, report incidents to law enforcement, and file complaints with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov or by contacting the FBI Springfield at 217-522-9675. For more information on holiday scams and protective measures, the public can visit the FBI's official website at FBI.gov.

Christian County has been issued a tentative property assessment equalization factor of 1.0000, according to David Harris, Director of the Illinois Department of Revenue.  The property assessment equalization factor, often called the “multiplier”, is the method used to achieve uniform property assessments among counties, as required by law.  

This equalization is particularly important because some of the state’s 6,600 local taxing districts overlap into two or more counties (e.g. school districts, junior college districts, fire protection districts).  If there were no equalization among counties, substantial inequities among taxpayers with comparable properties would result.  State law requires property in Illinois to be assessed at one-third (1/3) of its market value.  Farm property is assessed differently, with farm homesites and dwellings subject to regular assessing and equalization procedures, but with farmland and farm buildings assessed according to standards based on productivity.  

The equalization factor is determined annually for each county by comparing the sales price of individual properties sold over the past three years to the assessed value placed on those properties by the county supervisor of assessments/county assessor.  If this three-year average level of assessment is one-third of market value, the equalization factor will be one (1).  If the average level of assessment is greater than one-third of market value, the equalization factor will be less than one (1).  And if the average level of assessment is less than one-third of market value, the equalization factor will be greater than one (1).

Assessments in Christian County are at  33.28 percent of market value, based on sales of properties in 2020, 2021, and 2022.  The equalization factor currently being assigned is for 2023 taxes, payable in 2024.  Last year’s equalization factor for the county was 1.0000. 

The Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is recognizing the critical need for fire safety during the holiday season, emphasizing the alarming statistics provided by the National Fire Protection Association. The NFPA reports that over one-third of home decoration fires originate from candles, with more than two in five incidents caused by decorations placed too close to heat sources.

To raise awareness, the OSFM continues its annual "Keep the Wreath Red Campaign," initiated in 1954, where white lights replace red bulbs upon the occurrence of a fire-related death in the state. The campaign aims to symbolize the lives lost during the holiday season, with seven lives tragically lost in Illinois last year.

Highlighting the urgency of the matter, the NFPA reveals that U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 790 home structure fires annually due to decorations, excluding Christmas trees. Christmas tree-related fires average 150 per year between 2017-2021, often involving electrical distribution or lighting equipment. Candle fires peak in December, accounting for over half of home decoration fires during the month.

James A. Rivera, Illinois State Fire Marshal urges citizens to prioritize fire safety, recommending precautions such as following manufacturers' guidelines for light strings, replacing damaged cords, and considering battery-powered candles. Rivera stresses the importance of extinguishing all candles before leaving a room or going to bed.

The campaign provides essential safety tips, including using flame-retardant decorations, keeping candles at least 12 inches away from flammable items, and ensuring Christmas trees are adequately watered and positioned away from heat sources. The OSFM also advises cleaning ovens after holiday meals to prevent fires during subsequent holiday meals.

The OSFM urges residents to prioritize fire safety, reminding them that simple precautions can contribute to a bright and festive holiday season without the risk of accidental fires.

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month.  With two major holidays and many people traveling, December can be a deadly month for drunk driving. National Impaired Driving Prevention Month intends to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving.  Impaired driving refers to operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that can restrict a person’s ability to drive.

Impaired driving is a critical public safety issue.  The Illinois State Police, along with other law enforcement say to never get behind the wheel of a vehicle if you are impaired as that can cause traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities.  

The Illinois Liquor Control Commission stresses the need for drivers to be responsible behind the wheel, especially during the holiday season when there is an increase in alcohol-related incidents on the roadways.  The ILCC encourages everyone to plan alternative ways of getting home safely after enjoying holiday festivities.  Don’t drive impaired—choose a safe option such as a designated driver, rideshare, taxi, or public transportation. 

Get ready for a great show as the Geminid Meteor Shower graces the sky above Friends Creek Conservation Area. Happening on Thursday, December 14, from 9 pm to 11 pm, this yearly sky spectacle is set to charm both skywatchers and space fans.

During its peak, the show may produce up to 120 to 160 per hour, and while you're enjoying the show, hot chocolate and s'mores are available.

Anyone excited about the sky can join in! Just remember to sign up online at MaconCountyConservation.org by noon on December 13. Dress warmly to catch this mesmerizing sky show at Friends Creek Conservation Area located in Decatur.

For more information visit maconcountyconservation.org
 

A Fayette County man has been charged with possession of child pornography.  39-year-old Izacc A. Logue of St. Elmo, Illinois was charged late last week with nine counts of possession of child pornography, Class 2 felonies, each punishable by up to seven years in prison in Fayette County Circuit Court.  

Attorney General Kwame Raoul, along with the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System, Vandalia Police Department, and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, searched Logue’s residence on November 30th in the 2100 block of East 2350 Avenue in St. Elmo and arrested him. 

Kwame Raoul says that they will co-prosecute the case with Fayette County State’s Attorney Brenda Mathis who commended the cooperation of all law enforcement agencies in the investigation and prosecution of the case.   

Raoul also says that the public should report any exploitation at www.cybertipline.com and child abuse can be reported at dcfsonlinereporting.dcfs.illinois.gov.  Local child advocacy centers can be found at www.childrensadvocacycentersofillinois.org. 

Logue’s next court date is December 13th.  

The Shelby County March 2024 primary ballot is taking shape, after the filing period ended on Monday.

Incumbent Republican Shelby County State's Attorney Robert Hanlon will not be on the ballot.   Hanlon had filed to run again but withdrew his filing late last month.   As a result, the only Republican candidate that will be on the ballot will be Ruth Woolery of Shelbyville.   No Democratic candidate filed.

There was only one candidate from each party filing for Shelby County Circuit Clerk.  Incumbent Democrat Kari Ann Kingston of Shelbyville will be unopposed in the primary, as will the lone Republican candidate Peter Otis of Westervelt.

And in the Coroner's race in Shelby County, incumbent Republican Brad Phegley of Windsor will face challenger Richard Moon of Lakewood in the Republican primary in March.   No Democrats filed for Coroner in Shelby County.

The primary election in Illinois is Tuesday, March 19th.

The Taylorville Food Pantry has announced their new donation initiative to provide local, struggling families with a Holiday feast this Christmas season. The Taylorville Food Pantry has successfully served over 500 families for the past six months and now looks to the community to once again answer the call for donations for the Holiday Meat Drive.

This is the first year for the Taylorville Food Pantry to ask the community for specific items focused on creating a Christmas Dinner, namely, turkey, ham, or pork loin. Amy Hagen, Co-coordinator for the TFP explains the process of getting the drive started.

Hagen described the Taylorville Food Pantry’s recent partnership with the Taylorville Police Department to supply turkeys to families on Thanksgiving.

Pam Moses, Co-coordinator for the TFP updates the community on recent food pantry statistics that show numbers have only increased.

Amy Hagen, Pam Moses, and the Taylorville Food Pantry are grateful for the support given by the local community. The coordinators ask that while shopping for the family feast, think of the family that might not have the financial stability to do so, and grab seconds for the Taylorville Food Pantry.

Donations are being received now and can be dropped off at the TFP located at 1429 East Main Cross Street in Taylorville.

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

The WSVZ and Family Drug-Shelbyville Students of the Month for November 2023 were presented with their awards recently. Congratulations to  Freshman:  Henry Woolery, Sophomore:  Tim Edwards, Junior: Brionna Wilkinson, Senior:  Caroline White

From L to R: Henry Woolery, Tim Edwards, Brionna Wilkinson, Caroline White, Tina From Family Drug

Regional Radio News congratulates the Students of the Month!

The City of Taylorville held their City Awards Party on Friday, December 1st.

The following employees were honored for their years of service.

The first photo shows the 5 Years of Service and are listed left to right – Kirsten Beaman, Mike Bethard; Kellie Hamell; Crystal Nichols and Mick Rafferty.

The second photo shows the 10 Years of Service and are listed left to right – Tim McArdle, Tim Brown and Wes Withrow.

Not present was Kevin Krueger who received his award for 15 Years of Service.

We here at Regional Radio News Salute you all on your anniversaries with the city!

As people and events move indoors during the winter months seasonal sicknesses are more prevalent and Christian County has seen a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases. The Christian County Health Department offers tests and vaccines year-round and are dedicated to providing these services, especially during the holiday season.

Dr. Chad Anderson, the Public Health Administrator for the Christian County Health Department, says that an analysis of recent COVID-19 testing data shows 48% of citizens testing positive.

The Christian County Health Department urges citizens not to enter the health department if one is showing symptoms of COVID-19, RSV, or a cold. Nurses will provide testing or vaccinations like a drive-thru.

Anderson says the times for drive-thru testing or vaccinations is approximately 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Christian County Health Department, located at 902 West Springfield Road in Taylorville, the new location will be taken to by December 19th at 730 North Pawnee Street.

Contact the Christian County Health Department at 217-824-4113 or visit them online at cchdil.org/.

Dr. Chad Anderson appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville City Council met Monday evening for their first December meeting and recognized the Taylorville 7th Grade Girls Basketball Team. December 4th was named 7th Grade Girls Basketball Day in Taylorville. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry praised the girls and their head coach Max Wilson for having a great season at 21-7.  

Ordinances approved included the annual abatement ordinance, an ordinance to approve the purchase of personal property including a tractor, deck, and mulch kit, an ordinance to approve the Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act for Taylorville, and adding rules for remote meetings.  

A motion approving a $5,000 directors membership contribution for the CCEDC was approved. A motion to approve city hall parking improvements was passed with Aldermen Chris Skultety, Kathy Driskell, and Steve Dorchinecz all voting no.  

Mayor Barry thanked everyone for their hard work concerning Christmas celebrations. 

The Council went into closed session to discuss salaries and a lawsuit between Julie Lilly and Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler concerning an incident that took place September 27th.  The next City Council meeting is set for December 18th.  

Situational stress is a side effect of the busy holiday months and strain is put on the local community through personal relationships, work, and finances. Ed Lacheta, Mental Health expert with Shelby County Community Services says that there are ways to lessen the feelings of stress during the season that is supposed to be filled with joy.

Lacheta says this time of year reminds many of family members who have passed away, bringing about feelings of sadness, he continues by saying these feelings are natural and actually healthy for all humans to experience.

There are many ways to ward off the stressful effects of the winter season and Lacheta recommends staying connected to your family and community.

Just because the Christmas season provides joy for many, those feelings of glee are not meant to be permanent, says Lacheta. He says finding ways to celebrate with family or friends over a Zoom call is becoming more common.

Mental health services are available by phone at 988, a crisis line open 24/7.

Ed Lacheta appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show, live from our downtown studios in Shelbyville.

There will be a new Christian County Health Department location.  The County Health Board voted to close the current building on the 15th and the Health Department will move to the old Mental Health Association building which is 730 North Pawnee Street near the Junior High School. Dr. Chad Anderson, Public Health Administrator, says that they will try to keep operations as smooth as possible and are looking to hold a grand opening when things get opened later this month. 

Dr. Anderson urges patience during the move.

Dr. Anderson says the reason they needed the move was for a number of reasons, namely the current place being hard to find.

For more information on the Christian County Health Department and their move, call (217) 824-4113 or visit their website.