The Taylorville Park Board met Monday night at Manner’s park Dining Hall.  The first order of business was the swearing in of newly appointed trustee Doug Meyer.  Meyer is filling the seat left vacant by Jim Curtner.

Park board President Marlane Miller read 2 thank you letters, one from St. Mary’s for the use of picnic tables during the recent St. Mary’s Festival, the other from Taylorville Youth Football for the use of the field at the Don Bragg Sports Complex

Jeff Boldig of J & D Golf Management LLC petitioned the board for an amendment to the management agreement for Lakeshore Golf Course.  That request was granted.  Boldig also reported on the maintenance and upgrades underway at the golf course.  He recommended the district replace the current control boxes and heads for the irrigation system, at a cost of approximately $36,000.  The board unanimously approved the expenditure, with J & D to purchase the equipment and the Park Board to reimburse them in March.  The work will replace obsolete equipment that is considered beyond repair

The board also okayed the Recreation Director beginning the process of pricing a new computer system

The board discussed the upcoming Christmas in the Park, which will get underway Friday December 9^th and continue through December 23^rd, with special events planned every night.

There's a new president of the Illinois Corn Growers Association.  Jared White has more...

The fate of the Farm Bill is up in the air after the Super Committee failed to act and meet the deadline of cutting more than one-trillion dollars over the next ten years last week. 

Some holiday shoppers are going to dish out more money than they expected this year.  Secretary of State Jesse White says 31 people were ticketed over the weekend for parking in handicapped parking spaces.

The relief package for Sears and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange clears a hurdle in the Senate.  Senator Mike Noland voted against the proposal because it takes 18-million dollars from a cash strapped school district in his area.  He says that's would never fly in Chicago.

Lawmakers are taking steps to close loopholes within the state's pension systems.  Both Democrats and Republicans supported a proposal to prevent lobbyists from double-dipping within the systems.  House Minority Leader Tom Cross says it's an issue that needed immediate attention.

Technology is ever-evolving and that even includes criminal enterprises. Local St. Citizen's Advocate Mac McGwire says you can buy computer programs that lay out plans for crimes:

With the weather turning colder, most people are wrapping up any gardening activities for the year. Master gardener Gwen Podeschi of the Christian County University of Illinois Extension says you may still need to decide what to do with leftover chemicals:

 [audio:podeschichemicals2113011.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Contact the Extension office in Taylorville if you have any questions, 287-7246.

The Taylorville City Council is addressing the issue of billboards. A company recently asked the council for permission to put up the giant ads near the Christian County YMCA. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the council seems to be leaning towards voting against the billboards. The Mayor says there are two sides to every question:

Taylorville Police solved a hit and run case last week. They were called to the 800 block of W. Maincross Wednesday just before midnight on reports of hit and run. Officers found debris at the scene and noticed a red paint transfer. They traced the offending vehicle to the Taylorville Square, where they arrested 21-year-old Tiffany N. Ashlock of Taylorville on several charges including driving under the influence and no valid insurance. She was processed and released.

A Pana woman tells police she was the victim of a robbery and vadalism early on Thanksgiving. Susan M. McGarth says somebody busted out the vent window on her 1994 Buick to gain entry. A small tote bag containing miscellaneous items was taken. The case remain under investigation.

On Thanksgiving day last week Taylorville police arrested two male juveniles on theft charges. they were called out early Thursday morning on reports of suspicious activity near Hannon Trailer court. The juveniles were issued citations, then processed and released into the custody of their parents.

Pana Police arrested a man after investigating reports of someone stealing downspouts from buildings. 46-year-old Michael E. Durbin of Pana was charged with theft. He was also charged with retail theft after an incident at the County Market store.

A threatened teachers strike in Nokomis has apparently been averted as a tentative agreement has been reached between teachers and the School Board. Negotiations have been ongoing for more than six months. The teachers had set a strike date for Thursday if an agreement was not reached.

Asian Carp is attacking other  fish in Illinois' waterways but it's creating a big economic boom in Pike County.  Big River Fish Corporation is building a new facility, which will bring 60-new jobs to the area.  Brenda Middendorf with the Two Rivers Resource Conservation and Development says that's good news.  

 [audio:carppikecounty112911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Big River Fish Corporation received a two million dollar grant last year to expand and help prepare Asian Carp for export to China.  The new plant is in Griggsville.  Middendorf says they're accepting applications for administrative, clerical, and processing positions.  Training is available and they're looking to start hiring after the first of the year. 

The proposal to add five new casinos and slot machines at horse racing tracks is still in limbo.  Lawmakers are back in Springfield tomorrow but Representative Lou Lang says that doesn't mean the proposal will come up for a vote.

Critics of a tax package designed to keep Sears and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange in Illinois comes at the expense of other employers.  Kim Clarke Maisch, with the National Federation of Independent Businesses, says lawmakers are essentially giving companies special opportunities to become more profitable while leaving others out.

 [audio:taxbreaks1112911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The deal would provide the CME with 85-million dollars a year in incentives.  Sears would get 15-million dollars per year over the next decade with an opportunity to an additional grab 150-million dollars.  Other changes will allow all businesses to write off losses of up to 100-thousand dollars a year from previous years.  It also increases the estate tax exemption and the earned income tax credits for lower and middle class taxpayers.

 [audio:taxbreaks2112911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Kim Clarke Maisch, with the National Federation of Independent Businesses, says lawmakers would be better off focusing on improving tax policy for all businesses rather than on the few who can use their weight to get individual deals.

The Christian County Courthouse recorded the following arrests:

Melissa N. Orstead, 23, of Sevierville, TN was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for consumption of liquor. 

Cindy J. Hartke, 42, of Beecher City wsa arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Phillip R. Daugherty, 33, of Taylorville was arrested on a warrant for domestic battery. 

Jacob L. Kirchhoff, 28, of Taylorville was arrested for domestic battery. 

Alexander T. Dees, 18, of Taylorville was arrested for consumption of liquor. 

Michael D. Butamante, 18, of Taylorville was arrested for consumption ofliquor. 

Joseph L. Curtin, 18, of Stonington was arrested for consumption of liquor. 

Keith M. Curtin, 18, of Stonington was arrested for consumption of liquor.

James R. Flanagan, 45, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for deceptive practice and unspecified statute. 

Toni R. Coleman, 25, of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Dennis R. Boshell, 40, of Taylorville was arrested on a warrant for manufacturing of methamphetamine. 

Rockie A. Ginger, 31, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Rhoda R. Whipple, 46, of Taylorville was arrested for domestic battery. 

Scott E. Dailey, 46, of Taylorville was arrested for domestic battery. 

This week Christian County CRIME STOPPERS is seeking information about a pair of vehicle burglaries that occurred in Pana.

The victim said that over the last week an unknown subject or subjects entered into his vehicle while it was parked at thePanaHigh Schoolduring a football game.  While inside the unknown subject or subjects took clothing and stereo equipment.  In another incident a vehicle was entered in Pana and a radar detector and a GPS system were taken.  The total amount taken during both incidents is estimated at $1200.

Please call CRIME STOPPERS if you have any information about this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons. CRIME STOPPERS will pay cash rewards up to $1,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you DO NOT have to give your name. CRIME STOPPERS will pay double the normal reward for information leading to an arrest for the crime of the week.

You can contact CRIME STOPPERS at 824-9100, at our website ChristianCountyCrimeStoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274637) keyword CCCS and then your tip.  As always you will remain anonymous.

The Illinois General Assembly is meeting in special session today to take care of unfinished business from the recent Veto Session.  Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the Tenaska question, concerning a proposed $3.5 billion coal gasification plant, may come before legislators again today:

 [audio:mayortenaska112911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Mayor also says this Thursday at 7:00pm, the EPA will host a special meeting for public comment on the Tenaska issue.  The meeting will be at Taylorville Junior High School.

Average retail gasoline prices in Illinois have fallen 6.3 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.39/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 4.1 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.32/g, according to gasoline price website IllinoisGasPrices.com.  Prices in Taylorville are close to $3.25/g.

Including the change in gas prices in Illinois during the past week, prices yesterday were 49.8 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 11.2 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 14.4 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 46.3 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

Area lawn and garden enthusiasts can get intensive horticulture training in exchange for volunteer hours through University of Illinois Extension’s Master Gardener program. The training program consists of weekly sessions that run from January through April.

Participants get more than 60 hours of in-depth instruction on such topics as soils; botany; insect and disease control; flowers, trees, shrubs and other ornamentals; fruit and vegetable production; houseplants; basic landscaping and a wide range of other topics.

An internship of 60 hours of volunteer horticulture-related service to our local neighbors and communities for U of I Extension completes the training requirements.  Some Master Gardeners answer lawn and garden questions from homeowners. Others help design and operate demonstration gardens for the public and some make presentations to local schools and civic groups. 

Classes will be offered jointly in Springfield and Decatur on Thursdays from 9am to 4pm, starting January 26 and ending April 5, 2012.  Applications must be submitted by December 10, 2011.

For more details and to request an application packet, contact the U of I Extension offices in Christian County-217-287-7246.

Area lawn and garden enthusiasts can get intensive horticulture training in exchange for volunteer hours through University of Illinois Extension’s Master Gardener program. The training program consists of weekly sessions that run from January through April.

Participants get more than 60 hours of in-depth instruction on such topics as soils; botany; insect and disease control; flowers, trees, shrubs and other ornamentals; fruit and vegetable production; houseplants; basic landscaping and a wide range of other topics.

An internship of 60 hours of volunteer horticulture-related service to our local neighbors and communities for U of I Extension completes the training requirements.  Some Master Gardeners answer lawn and garden questions from homeowners. Others help design and operate demonstration gardens for the public and some make presentations to local schools and civic groups. 

Classes will be offered jointly in Springfield and Decatur on Thursdays from 9am to 4pm, starting January 26 and ending April 5, 2012.  Applications must be submitted by December 10, 2011.

For more details and to request an application packet, contact the U of I Extension offices in Christian County-217-287-7246.

Secretary of State Jesse White has announced that the Secretary of State Police issued 31 citations this weekend during a statewide crack down on people who illegally park in accessible parking spaces at local malls.  The enforcement kicked off on Black Friday, November 25^th and will continue through the end of December.

Nine people were issued tickets for improper use of a disability parking space or parking in a disability space without a placard or license plate over the holiday weekend.  Twenty-two people were cited with misuse of a disability parking placard, or using someone else’s placard.  Eighteen placards were confiscated and a total of 367 placards were checked.

When the holiday enforcements began in 2005, more than 200 people were cited for violating the program.

The fine for illegally using a placard or disability license plates without the authorized holder of the placard or disability license plates present is a maximum of $500.  In addition, violators can be subject to a 30-day administrative driver’s license suspension from the Secretary of State for the first offense.

The fine for parking in an accessible parking space without a parking placard or disability license plates can be as much $350.

Secretary White urged people to report abuse of accessible parking spaces by calling 217-785-0309. 

The Broadcasting Club at Lake Land College recently collected nearly 1200 pounds of food and donated it to local charities.

According to Greg Powers, broadcasting instructor, about half of the food collected was donated to Pathways, an alternative education program at the college. The other half of the collection was donated to the Mattoon Community Food Center.   

The food drive is a month-long event put on every year by the club.

To learn more about clubs and organizations at Lake Land College, visit www.lakeland..cc.il.us/student_life/clubs.cfm

The Shelby County Health Department will sponsor an adult immunization clinic on the 1^st and 3^rd Tuesday afternoons from 1:00-3:30PM.

The next Adult Immunization clinic will be held Tuesday December 6^th, from 1:00-3:30PM. Hepatitis B. Hepatitis A, Pneumonia, MMR and TD and Tdap will be offered at these clinics. The cost of the MMR is $60.00, TD is $30.00, and Tdap is $45.00. Hepatitis B is a series of three injections over a six month period. Cost of this vaccine is $30.00 per injection or $90.00 for the Hepatitis B series for client 20 years of age and colder. For clients 19 years of age the cost is $20.00 per injection or $60.00 for the Hepatitis B series. Hepatitis A vaccine is offered to persons 19 years and older. Hepatitis A is a series of two injections over a 6-12 month period. Cost of this vaccine is $30 per injection or $60.00 for the Hepatitis A series. Pneumonia is offered to person 13 years or older. Pneumonia vaccine is $65.00. Medicare is accepted as payment for pneumonia vaccine. Please bring your Medicare card. Please call one week prior to the clinic you plan to attend to assure vaccine availability. Questions should be directed to the health department at 1700 W. So. Third St., phone 774-9555 Monday-Friday, 8AM-4PM.

With the shopping season in high gear, holiday theft becomes a concern. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says you can avoid being a victim just by taking a few precautions.

 [audio:sheriffseztakeyourkeys112911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Sheriff Kettelkamp also says you should never leave purchases in plain sight in your vehicle.

The Taylorville Tourism Council is presenting this year’s Holiday Home Tour this Friday and Saturday. The Tourism Council’s Carol Alexander explains how a pig fits in with the Home Tour:

The Taylorville City Council’s Emergency Services Committee and the Personnel committees will meet this Wednesday night. Topics of discussion will include the possibility of adding an employee for the Sewer Department. They’ll also take up the topic of superintendent’s salaries. The Emergency Services meeting, chaired by Alderman Shawn Burtle, is at 6pm. The Personnel Committee, chaired by Alderman Rob Heberling meeting will immediately follow. The meetings take place in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Building.

The Illinois Senate this (Tuesday) afternoon passed legislation allowing the 3-point-5 billion dollar Tenaska coal gasification project northeast of Taylorville, to be built. The final vote was 30 yes, 28 no. Here's how Senate president John Cullerton announced the final vote:

TENASKA VOTE NOV 29 111[audio:TenaskavoteNov29111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lawmakers have fought to put the plant in Taylorville for several years. The measure is expected to create hundreds of jobs in the Taylorville area. Senator Kyle McCarter has been an outspoken opponent of the bill. He says the plan will not only raise rates on electric customers but it has serious problems with pollution controls. Senate President John Cullerton says there are provisions in the bill that protect customers from extreme increases. In fact, he says the rate increase can’t exceed two percent and all increases must be cleared by the Illinois Commerce Commission. Cullerton says no increases will go into effect until 2017. The bill now heads to the House in this week's Special Session.

The plant would bring with it some 25-hundred construction jobs and over 200 permanent jobs, to Christian County.

The Chicago Blackhawks open up a two-game homestand this evening against the Phoenix Coyotes at the United Center.  The 'Hawks have won back-to-back games and are coming off a 2-1 victory over Los Angeles on Saturday to improve to 14-7-and-3 on the season.  Chicago wraps up the homestay on Friday against the New York Islanders.

The judge overseeing an antitrust lawsuit filed by players against the NBA has been asked to stay all court proceedings while the sides work on finishing a labor agreement.  In a letter written to Minnesota District Judge Patrick J. Schiltz on Monday, attorney Barbara Podlucky Berens says the players and the NBA have reached a tentative agreement to resolve the labor dispute, including the players' lawsuit and a suit filed by the NBA against the players in New York.  The letter asks the judge to stay all proceedings through December 9th.

The league and the disbanded players association reached a tentative agreement Saturday morning after a meeting that lasted roughly 15 hours.  The nearly five-month lockout has already wiped out all games that were scheduled in November, but NBA commissioner David Stern indicated that a 66-game schedule could begin on December 25th if the new deal is ratified.  Reports also indicate that training camps and the free agency period would begin on December 9th if a deal gets done.

After winning the World Series, Cardinals players are due to cash a check for more than $320-thousand each. Major League Baseball announced the 2011 postseason revenue pool at more than $57-million. The Cardinals awarded 51 full shares of their more than $20.6-million cut, coming out to $323,170 each. The team also awarded 11 partial shares and eight cash awards.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville defeated Windsor with a score of 61-37.

If you had cranberries on your plate for the Thanksgiving holiday, you’re not alone. They are an important part of traditional holiday fare. Christian County Extension Ag Literacy Coordinator Anne Lupton says cranberries were likely part of the first Thanksgiving.

[audio:luptononcranberries112811.mp3]comment here[/audio] 

Lupton says most of the food served at the first Thanksgiving does not resemble the typical holiday dinner of today.

Now that Thanksgiving is in the books, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas activities. Becky Edwards, director of Taylorville Main Street, says everybody loves a parade:

 [audio:edwardsonchristmasparade1128111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Main Street’s Twilight Christmas Parade is set for this Saturday December 3^rd at 5pm in Downtown Taylorville. Parade line-up is at 4:30. The theme this year is “Castle’s on Parade”. Call Main Street if you have questions at 824-3555.

An accident Tuesday left two vehicles damaged. According to reports from the Taylorville Police Department, 25-year-old Ryan S. Patton of Taylorville was waiting at the intersection of Springfield Road and Taft Street when he was rear ended by a vehicle driven by 22-year-old Melissa A. Herwig. Herwig reportedly told police she slid on the wet roadway. Her vehicle had to be towed from the scene.

The Chicago Blackhawks are back on the ice tomorrow night as they kick off a two-game homestand against the Phoenix Coyotes at the United Center.  The 'Hawks have won back-to-back games and are coming off a 2-1 victory over Los Angeles on Saturday to improve to 14-7-and-3 on the season.  They finished 3-and-3 on a six-game road swing.  Chicago wraps up the homestay on Friday against the New York Islanders.

A meeting lasting roughly 15 hours ended early Saturday morning and resulted in NBA owners and the disbanded players association reaching a tentative agreement to end the lockout.  The work stoppage lasted 149 days.  The NBPA filed a disclaimer of interest earlier this month, disbanding as a union after rejecting the owners' latest offer of a 50-50 split of basketball-related revenue.

"The New York Times" says a 10-year pact is in order with options for both sides to terminate the agreement after six years.  The league had canceled all regular season games up to December 15th.  NBA commissioner David Stern mentioned a 66-game regular season would start, beginning with a triple-header, on December 25th.  Reports also indicate that training camps will open on December 9th, along with the free agent period.

Myke Henry netted 14 points as the Illinois Fighting Illini cruised to a 90-43 win over Chicago State on Sunday in Champaign.  Meyers Leonard, D.J. Richardson and Nananna Egwu all added 11 points and the bench tallied 48 points as Illinois improved to a perfect 6-and-0 on the young season.  The Illini play at Maryland tomorrow evening on ESPN.

As heard on WMKR 94.3, the Central A&M Lady Raiders defeated Sullivan with a score of 59-47.

A yellow dot on your car window could be just the thing first responders need to save your life in an emergency.  Ann Schneider with the Illinois Department of Transportation says the new program will put vital medical information at first responders' fingertips.

 [audio:yellowdot11128113.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The yellow dot and information packets can be picked up at all county public health departments.  State officials say this information will be particularly handy for heart patients, diabetics and the elderly. 

 [audio:yellowdot21128112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Steve Gutzmer, a first responder with the Homewood Fire Department, says crash victims aren't always able to communicate with them so this program will help tremendously.

38 year old Dawn D. Calame of Taylorville was traveling north on County Hwy. #1 when a deer came into the roadway.  Calame struck the deer, and received damage to her 2002 Mercury Villager.  No injuries were reported. 

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is warning you about solicitations by organizations purporting to be seeking donations for law enforcement agencies. These groups may claim to be an actual charitable organization themselves or advise that they are collecting “on behalf of” a legitimate organization.

Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp advises that these organizations seek to appeal to the generosity of individuals, especially during the holiday season. They will often claim that they are seeking donations for the families of fallen officers or to purchase bullet resistant vests.

These groups either make a very small financial donation to these causes or, more often than not, simply offset the contributions they receive with exaggerated operating costs and payroll.  Either way, the money you donated in good faith is often never used for the causes you donated to. Frequently these solicitors will change their name to stay ahead of any scrutiny. These name changes may be substantial or simply involve substituting one word such as “Fund” for “League.”

There are many reputable law enforcement agencies that do engage in charitable fundraising such as the Fraternal Order of Police, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.

If you are contacted by anyone claiming to represent a law enforcement charity and you are unsure about their legitimacy please contact the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, your local law enforcement agency or the Better Business Bureau. The link to check a charity or business in Illinois is: http://www.bbb.org/us/charity/

Officials in Crawford County say the state’s business climate has kept them from attracting a new industry. A turkey processing plant was interested in relocating to Robinson, but Robinson Mayor Roger Pathtel says it was going to cost the company too much to do business in Illinois.

 [audio:turkeyplant1128112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Pethtel says it was going to cost the company about a million dollars more to do business in Illinois than in Indiana. Most of that was in workman’s comp, which was going to be about six-hundred-thousand dollars more. The plant would have meant three-hundred new jobs to the community. Pethtel says it’s disappointing to lose out on the plant because it would have helped the local economy.

The Illinois Public Interest Research Group is warning parents about dangerous toys on store shelves. Consumer advocate Megan Ahearn says their “Trouble in Toyland” report looks at almost two dozen toys which can hurt children.

Holiday weight tends to pule on this time of year but Sara Lopinski, with the SIU School of Medicine, has a few tips on how to keep it off.

 [audio:holidayweight11128111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lopinski says you should try to avoid the break room at work on big feast days. And whenever possible, you should choose healthy foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and to avoid sauces, gravies, and calorie-loaded drinks.

 [audio:holidayweight21128111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Sara Lopinski, with the SIU School of Medicine, recommends you consider reducing portion sizes when you fill your plate.

The Taylorville Park Board will meet tonight at Manner’s Park Dining Hall. Tonight they’ll discuss a yearly storage fee for non-participating Christmas in the Park Program sponsor displayers. They’ll also set the date for the Park District Christmas party, and consider Park District employees Christmas bonuses. The board will hear reports from the park maintenance superintendent, the park and finance director and the recreation director. Also on the agenda: a report from the finance committee. The board will then go into executive session. The meeting is tonight at 7:00 at the Manner’s Park Dining Hall.

With the holidays now in full swing, most people look forward to happy get-togethers with friends and family, but for many people the holidays can be a dark time. Psychologist Karen Vatthauer tells Regional Radio listeners that for a variety of reasons, the holidays can be a time of depression:

 [audio:vatthauerondepression112811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Vatthauer says depression is common at this time of year.

The Taylorville Tourism Council’s Holiday Home Tour is coming up in a few days. The Tourism Council’s Carol Alexander says those attending will get exactly what they want from the Tour this season:

University of Illinois head football coach Ron Zook was fired Sunday by athletic director Mike Thomas.

Here's the statement posted by the University on fightingillini.com:

CHAMPAIGN, ILL - University of Illinois Director of Athletics Mike Thomas announced today that Ron Zookwill not be retained as head football coach, ending a seven-year run that saw the Illini qualify for three bowls, including the 2008 Rose Bowl.

"I assessed the entire program and felt that it was time for a change in leadership," Thomas said. "It is imperative that our program shows some consistency and competes for championships, and I think a change in coaches can help us get there sooner. I wasn't here seven years ago when Ron Zooktook over as coach, but it's clear the program is in better shape than what he inherited. I believe we need new leadership to take the program to the level to compete for championships on a consistent basis. This is an extremely competitive conference, and we are determined to go head-to-head with the very best."

Zook was named head coach at Illinois in December, 2004, and compiled a record of 34-51, including 18-38 in Big Ten play during his Illini stint. After starting the 2011 season with six-consecutive victories and earning a Top 20 ranking, the Illini suffered through a six-game losing streak to end the regular season. In 2007, Illinois surprised many with a 9-4 record, including a 6-2 mark in Big Ten play to finish in second place. The Fighting Illini posted a memorable 28-21 victory over top-ranked Ohio State at Columbus that season to propel them into a Rose Bowl invitation. Following the 2007 season, Zook was named the Liberty Mutual National Coach of the Year and Big Ten Coach of the Year.

Zook is one of only four coaches to win games at Michigan, Ohio State and Penn State, and produced three first-round NFL draft picks in the last four seasons. Illinois' 38-14 victory over Baylor at the 2010 Texas Bowl was Illinois' first bowl victory since 1999.

But, the three seasons of bowl eligibility were also interspersed with two wins in 2005 and 2006, five wins in 2008 and three in 2009. Zook finishes his Illinois tenure with a winning record over just Indiana among conference opponents.

Thomas indicated a national search would begin immediately and that he hoped to name a new coach as soon as possible.

"We will begin the process of finding a new coach as soon as possible," Thomas said. "Obviously, we have some hiring policies and regulations to follow, and some candidates may be involved with their own teams and bowl preparations, but I expect to move forward quickly."

Defensive coordinator Vic Koenning, who was head coach at Wyoming from 2000-02, will serve as interim coach through the expected bowl game appearance.

ZOOK'S HEAD COACHING RECORD

YEAR SCHOOL OVERALL CONF. CONF. FINISH BOWL FINAL POLLS
2002	Florida	        8-5	6-2	2nd (East)	Outback	NR/24
2003	Florida	        8-5	6-2 	T-1st (East)	Outback	24/25
2004	Florida	        7-4	4-4	T-3rd (East)	Peach*	NR/25
2005	Illinois	2-9	0-8 	11th	---	NR/NR
2006	Illinois	2-10	1-7 	T-10th	---	NR/NR
2007	Illinois	9-4	6-2 	T-2nd	Rose	20/18
2008	Illinois	5-7	3-5 	T-6th	---	NR/NR
2009	Illinois	3-9	2-6 	9th	---	NR/NR
2010	Illinois	7-6	4-4 	T-4th	Texas	NR/NR
2011	Illinois	6-6	2-6	5th (Leaders)
TOTAL (10 YEARS) 57-65 34-46 - 5 BOWLS at Illinois (7 years) 34-51 18-38 - 2 Bowls

Polls listed as AP/Coaches *Led Gators to Peach Bowl berth

As heard on Groovy 93.5, Taylorville girls defeated Hillsboro with a score of 63-60.

As heard on WMKR 94.3, Central A&M defeated Paris with a score of 44-42.

As heard on WTIM 97.3, Rochester defeated Richmond-Burton with a score of 42-39.

Word has been received from the North Pole that Santa Claus will be making his grand entrance to visit Pana on Saturday, November 26, via the Pana Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade.    The Parade will assemble on the corner of Fifth and Locust Streets at 9:30 a.m.    The parade will begin at 10:00 a.m.     The route will followLocust Street northand end atFirst Street.

Individuals, organizations, businesses, Churches, and clubs are invited to participate with a Parade entry.   Those entering the parade are reminded that candy may not be thrown from the vehicles and must be passed out by walkers.   Prizes will be awarded to the best entries asFirst Placewill receive a $50.00 Pana Chamber Gift Certificate, second place a $30.00 Gift Certificate and third place a $20.00 gift Certificate.   The theme of this year’s parade is “Happy Holidays”.     Santa will be assisted by the Pana Lions Club.    

After the Parade, Santa will greet kids of all ages at the Historic Roseland Theater where they will be treated to a “Free” movie.   This year’s film will be "Prancer" rated G-starring Sam Elliot and Cloris Leachman.   It is being presented by Bob Ridings Motors, Downs Motor, and Hubbartt Motors.   Parents are invited to shop in the Pana Area Business while the Kids view the “Free” film.    For more information contact the Pana Chamber at 562-4240.

Tuesday’s Kiwanis Club program was presented by Bob Richardson, Principal of Taylorville High School.   Richardson is in his second year at THS. He became an administrator because he felt he would have more impact on the students’ lives. The family moved here from Dwight, Illinois where he was the Principal for four years. Prior to that he taught at Maroa-Forsyth for four years. He has been married for 18 years and has three daughters, a senior, a sophomore and an eighth grader.   He grew up in Hindsboro, Illinois, population 400.   In closing he reminded the audience of the upcoming Vespers and Madrigals.

The November 29th program will be presented by Rebecca Steiner. December 14^th the club will man the “Christmas in the Park” donation booth.

For the latest news on Kiwanis you can log onto their website at www.taylorvillekiwanis.com.

Taylorville Kiwanis Club meets each Tuesday at noon in the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.  If you would like more information about joining Kiwanis contact Fred Ronnow at 824-4919.

It has come to the attention of the Taylorville Water Department that Allied Plumbing and Heating has sent out a mailer concerning letters sent out from the Taylorville Water Department addressing thermal expansion at residences in Taylorville. The mailer promotes it as pertaining to all residences served by the Taylorville City Water Department. The only instance where this pertains is if you receive a letter from the Taylorville Water Department after work was completed on your service line. Currently we have sent out approximately 30 letters to residences to have them address this issue. If you have not received a letter, you do not need to address this at this time. If you have any questions, please contact the Water Department at 287-1441.

The Chicago Bears continue a four-game stretch of AFC West opponents as they travel to Oakland on Sunday for a Week 12 tilt against the division-leading Raiders.  The Bears will be playing in their first game without franchise quarterback Jay Cutler, who broke the thumb on his throwing hand in the team's Week 11 victory over San Diego.  Cutler underwent surgery earlier this week and is expected to be out at least the rest of the regular season.  Caleb Hanie will get his first NFL start.  Chicago has won five games in-a-row to sit in a two-way tie with Detroit for second in the NFC North division at 7-and-3.  Meanwhile, the Raiders are coming off a 27-21 win over Minnesota on Sunday to up their mark to 6-and-4 on the season.  Chicago has won both head-to-head matchups since the 2001 season.  The Bears beat the Raiders in Oakland, 17-6, in the team's last meeting during the 2007 season.

The Shelby County Health Department will sponsor an adult wellness clinic on Monday mornings from 8:30-11:30AM. The clinic will be held on December 5^th, 12^th, 19^th. Cholesterol, ALT, glucose, hemoglobin, and blood pressure screening will be offered at these clinics. Persons should not eat or drink after midnight the night before the test. Please call to schedule an appointment for these tests.

There is no fee for blood pressure check or blue glucose screening. Hemoglobin test is $10.00. Total lipid profile including glucose is $20.00. ALT is $10.00.

Questions should be directed to the health department at 1700 W.S. Third St., phone 774-9555 Monday-Friday, 8AM-4PM.

The Cardinals will be increasing ticket prices for 2012 on selected seats. Seats in the Diamond Boxes behind the dugouts will increase from $61.50 to $67. Seats down the first and third-base lines beyond the dugout will go from $56 to $57. Season ticket holders will soon receive renewal packets. More than half of the club's 21-thousand season tickets will remain at 2011 prices.

Alex Pietrangelo scored the game-winning, overtime goal with under a minute left to lift the Blues over the Penguins, 3-2.  Jamie Langenbrunner and Scott Nichol also found the back of the net for St. Louis, which had lost two straight.  Brian Elliott made 31 saves in net for the victors.  The Blues are back on home ice tomorrow night against the Calgary Flames.

The Chicago Bears have added a quarterback to the roster, but it's not Kyle Orton.  The Bears announced they have signed Josh McCown as a backup to Caleb Hanie.  Hanie was thrust into the starting role when Jay Cutler suffered a broken thumb Sunday against the Chargers.  Cutler underwent surgery on Wednesday and will begin rehab in a couple of days.  The Bears are hopeful he could return near the tail end of the regular season.  Chicago had put in a waiver claim for veteran Kyle Orton, who was released by the Broncos on Tuesday, but he was picked up by the Chiefs instead.  McCown spent 2010 playing in the United Football League.  He's appeared in 47 NFL games, including 31 starts, with the Cardinals, Lions, Raiders and Panthers.  McCown signed with the 49ers in August, but was later released.

Fall tillage and nitrogen application are at the forefront of producers' minds this time of year, however a recent study shows application of other nutrients should also likely be on that list.  Jared White has more...

 [audio:112111SoilSamplesWrap.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Listen for Jared White’s morning and afternoon farm shows weekdays at 6:40am and 12:20pm on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM.

For most people, the onset of Fall and Winter mean an end to outdoor activities, including gardening. But according to Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi, there are still some tasks that can be dealt with this time of year:

 [audio:podeschi112311.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If you have questions for Gwen Podeschi or about the Master Gardener program, contact the Christian County Extension Office at 287-7546.

With the shopping season here, most people will be making at least some visits to the department stores in coming weeks. But for some people shopping is more than just a chore to be done. Psychologist Karen Vatthauer tells Regional Radio listeners, for some it’s an addiction:

 [audio:shopping112311.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Vatthaeuer says there are successful therapies for people with a shopping addiction.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department recorded the following traffic accidents:

63 year old Patricia E. Kampee, of Decatur, was heading north on Rt. 48 whan a deer ran across the road in front of the Jeep Cherokee she was driving.  Kampee was not able to stop in time, hit the deer and caused damage to her vehicle. 

 28 year old Brett P. Stock, of Eldorado, was heading west on 1500 North Rd. and 52 year old Karla G. Koenig, of Moweaqua, was heading south on 2700 East Rd. attempting to turn west on 1500 north Rd. Kkoenig did not see Stocks vehicle because of the sun.  Koenig pulled out in front of Stock, causing him to hit her vehicle.  Stock was pulling two farm tanks.  No injuries were reported. 

 37 year old Jolayne R. Hester, of Pana, was backing out of her drive at 818 W. Dewitt Street and 65 year old Charlotte A. Thompson, of Taylorville, was heading west on Dewitt.  Hester did not see Thompson vehicle because of a trash can in her way.  Hester hit Thompson vehicle causing damage to both vehicles. 

38 year old Eric W. Hanley, of Sigel ,was parked in the parking lot of Ahlstroms in Taylorville on the north side of the plant.  44 year old Mark A. Pyburn, of Stevensville, MI turned too tight and the trailer of Pyburn hit the front passengers side of Hanley.  Damage was caused to the front fender and the mirror bracket of Hanleys freightliner.  No injuries were reported. 

Monday evening at approximately 5:45, an accident occurred in the 900 Block of N. Cheney. According to police reports, 27-year-old Jacob L. Kirchff of Kincaid couldn’t slowdown in time to avoid hitting the back end of a vehicle drive by 50-year-old Douglas R. Hancock of Taylorville. Kirchoff reportedly told police the wet roads contributed to the accident. No injuries were reported.

An accident was reported last Friday at the intersection of Spresser and Cheney streets. According to reports, 17-year-old Victoria Aymer of Tovey struck the rear of a vehicle driven by 53-year-old Michael L. Ayers of Taylorville. No injuries were reported.

Taylorville Police were called to Wal-Mart Monday afternoon on reports of theft. Two women, 53-year-old Peggy S. Reinstorf of Pana and 22-year-old Brianna M. McSchooler of Vandalia were arrested and taken to the Taylorville Police Department where both were processed. Reinstorf was released but McSchooler was held when police apparently discovered she was wanted on a warrant out of Shelby County.

As heard on Groovy the Taylorville girls beat Lincon with a score of 67-30.

As heard on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM, the Taylorville Boys fall to Triad High School 51-20.

Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler will reportedly undergo surgery on his broken right thumb in Vail, Colorado today.  The veteran signal-caller suffered the setback during Sunday's win over the San Diego Chargers.  Head coach Lovie Smith said on Monday that he hopes to have Cutler back before the end of the regular season.  Cutler did finish Sunday's game, throwing for 286 yards and two touchdowns against the Bolts.  The Bears have won five straight and are in the thick of the NFC Wild Card race at 7-and-3.  Caleb Hanie will start Sunday's game at Oakland.

The Chicago Bears have signed Jake Laptad as their new long snapper.  Laptad inked a three-year contract and will take over the duties for Patrick Mannelly, who was placed on injured reserve Monday with a torn ACL.  Mannelly, who has played in a franchise-record 215 games for the Bears, was hurt during this past Sunday's game against San Diego.  Laptad, also a defensive end, spent  the 2011 preseason with the Bears after signing as an undrafted free agent out of Kansas.  The Bears also signed offensive tackle Josh Davis and cornerback Joshua Moore to the practice squad.  Moore appeared in three games for the Bears last year.

Major League Baseball and the Players Association have announced a new five-year collective bargaining agreement.  The new deal runs through the 2016 season and guarantees 21 years of uninterrupted labor peace in the league.  Among the elements included in the new CBA are blood testing for human growth hormone, spending limits on the draft, additional Wild Card playoff berths beginning no later than 2013, realignment with Houston moving to the American League West to give each league 15 teams, and an increase in the minimum major league player salary.

The Chicago Blackhawks continue a six-game road trip this evening against the San Jose Sharks at HP Pavilion.  The 'Hawks have dropped back-to-back games on the heels of a four-game winning streak to fall to 12-6-and-3 on the season.  They are coming off a 9-2 defeat at the hands of Edmonton on Saturday.  Chicago plays at Anaheim on Friday and wraps up the road swing on Saturday at Los Angeles.

Illinois dropped Richmond 70-61 to advance to the championship game of the Cancun Challenge.  Center Meyers Leonard led the way with 22 points and 12 rebounds for the Illini.  Illinois will take on Illinois State in the title game while Richmond will battle Rutgers in the consolation contest tonight.

Albert Pujols will have to be content with three NL MVP Awards for now.  The Cardinals first baseman finished fifth in this year's voting.  Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun won the award, followed by Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp, Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder and Diamondbacks outfielder Justin Upton.  Pujols hit .299 with 37 home runs and 99 RBI this season.

St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols and Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder are among those offered arbitration by their respective clubs on Wednesday. The 31-year-old Pujols hit .299 with 37 homers and 99 RBI during the regular season for the World Series champion Cards. The 27-year-old Fielder batted .299 with 38 homers and 120 RBI last year. The top prizes in this year's free-agent class each also finished in the top five in NL MVP voting. Others offered arbitration include Brewers reliever Francisco Rodriguez, Texas Rangers pitcher C.J. Wilson, Chicago White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle, and Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins, reliever Ryan Madson and outfielder Raul Ibanez. Teams can receive draft picks if players who were offered arbitration sign elsewhere.

An East St. Louis mother is being evaluated to see if she can stand trial after killing two of her children.  Ron Honberg, with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, says it appears Yokeia Smith did not receive adequate mental healthcare.

 [audio:childmurder1112211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dr. Brooke Kraushaar, a Forensic Psychologist at the St. Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute, says she considers past medical diagnoses when she evaluates a person's ability to stand trial.

 [audio:childmurder2112211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Smith had been diagnosed as bipolar, schizophrenic and severely depressed.  She admitted to the murders in a letter she wrote to the court.  Smith told the judge she had been hearing voices, hallucinating, taking drugs and drinking the day of the murders.  A competency trial will determine whether she's fit to undergo a trial for the murders.

Illinois' efforts to keep drunk drivers off the road aren't going unnoticed.  Mothers Against Drunk Driving's Mary Gall says a law that requires DUI offenders to install an interlock ignition device in their vehicles has made a huge difference. 

The Thanksgiving grocery bill isn't going to put a strain on the pockets of one Peoria Heights woman.  Jennifer Harris won a year's worth of free groceries.  She says the prize money came just in time.

The fall field work season is in full swing, and one agency is reminding producers and landowners to keep in mind compliance issues.  Jared White has more...

[audio:112111NRCSComplianceWRAP.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Listen for Jared White’s daily Farm Shows weekdays at 6:40am and 12:20pm.

The Nokomis Education Association has announced that teachers will go on strike December 1^st if a labor agreement isn’t reached. Negotiations with the Nokomis School board have gone on for more than six months without a new contract being okayed.

Teachers say they have already agreed to a number of concessions. The School Board says it doesn’t have the money to grant the teacher’s demands.

Another bargaining session is set for this coming Monday, November 28.

The Taylorville Tourism Council’s Holiday Home Tour will be here before you know it. Carol Alexander of the Tourism Council describes one of the stops on this year’s tour:

 [audio:alexanderonhometour112211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

This year’s Holiday Home Tour will be December 2^nd and 3^rd. For information, go to the Tourism Council’s website, tourtaylorville.com.

Adults aren’t the only ones who can get in trouble with holiday parties. Teen are also tempted to join in such festivities. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says there’s a good chance the kids will get busted:

If you’ve ever dreamed of winning a flat-screen TV, the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce might be able to help, according to Chamber President and CEO Fred Ronnow:

 [audio:chamberraffle112211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the Chamber to buy your tickets at 824-4919 or stop by the Chamber offices on the south side of the Taylorville Square.

A Pana man told police Friday that nearly $800 worth of items were stolen from his car last week. Max W. Mosely told Pana Police clothing and stereo items were taken from his unlocked car while it was parked at Pana High School during a ball game. That case remains under investigation.

A fender-bender took place Friday at Pana High School. According to Pana Police, a 16-year-old driver backed into a vehicle drive by a 17-year-old. Nobody was hurt, and both vehicles suffered minor damage.

Rich E. Gattons, 30, was arrested for assault on November 20, 2011. 

Taylorville Police arrested a Taylorville man Sunday evening around 9:30. According to police reports, a vehicle was stopped near W. Franklin and S. Webster when a passenger in the vehicle jumped out of the car and fled. Officers caught up with 21-year-old Justin T. Bland in the 700 block of W. Prairie. He was taken to the Taylorville Police Department where he was processed on a charge of resisted a peace officer. He was then taken to the Christian county Jail where he was held in lieu of bond on a warrant.

Taylorville Police pulled a vehicle over for weaving around early Sunday morning and found out the driver was apparently driving with a suspended license. 40-year-old Michael S. Bross was arrested and taken to the Taylorville Police Department where he was processed and released.

Just after midnight early Sunday morning, Taylorville Police arrested 27-year-old Jennifer Shaw of Decatur. She was pulled over to investigate a license plate violation, when it was allegedly learned that Shaw was driving on a suspended license. She was arrested and taken to the Taylorville Police Department where she was processed and released.

The boil order for the Village of Edinburg has been lifted.

Deb Stalets has announced that she will retire from her position as PCH Foundation Executive Director at Pana Community Hospital at the end of January.  She has worked as the Foundation’s Executive Director for 4 years. 

Deb began her career at Pana Community Hospital in February of 2008.

The first project that Deb was called upon to institute at PCH was a Capital Campaign to raise funds for the new Rehab/Wellness Center.  Deb and the Foundation Board kicked off the campaign with a pledge to raise $500,000 to go towards the project.  The campaign was a huge success, surpassing the original goal and raising over 535,000.  The doors opened to the Rehab/Wellness Center in February of 2010.  The Center has proven to be successful for the hospital and the community.

In 2010, the hospital made a decision to purchase a digital mammography machine.  The Foundation was again called upon for support in raising funds.  Within six months, the Foundation raised over $135,000 under the leadership of Deb, the Foundation Board and the generosity of the community. 

Various fundraisers implemented have been dances, dinners, raffles, memorial angel tree and the annual golf outing held every August.  The success of the golf outing continues to be the largest yearly fundraiser for the Foundation. 

Before coming to PCH, Deb worked at Kemmerer Village in Assumption for 18 years. 

Illinois is trying to clean up the campaign process. A task force has been commissioned to establish a public finance system for political candidates, but Todd Miasch with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce says that may not be a good idea.

 [audio:campaigns1112111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Maish says the first draft of the task force report presents a biased view on why public financing should be implemented. Proponents of the new campaign funding process say it will restore confidence in government and increase voter turnout. Maisch says it could be quote offensive to voters to have the government choose which candidates to fund in election.

 [audio:campaigns2112111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Officials are looking to implement a public funding system for political candidates, but Todd Maisch says that gives government too much control.

Illinois State Police are taking steps to rid the streets of synthetic drugs. In fact, they seized a large amount form the shelves of the “Brown Bag” video store in McClure this week. Karent Dobner, with the Maximus Foundation, applauds the clean-up efforts for very personal reasons.

 [audio:synthdrugmom112111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dobner’s son died in June after using synthetic marijuana only once. State Trooper David Sneed says investigators found K-2 and bath salts on “Brown Bag’s” shelves. Both were outlawed in the state earlier this year. The drugs cause very dangerous side effects, such as hallucinations and increased heart rates. Sneed says no arrests have been made but an investigation is underway.

Even though Thanksgiving is now just a few days away, Becky Edwards, Taylorville Mainstreet Director, had her thoughts on Halloween the other day. Edwards tells Regional Radio listeners this this year’s first ever Pumpkin Prowl was a big success:

 [audio:edwardspumpkinprowl112111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The event was held on the Taylorville Square the Saturday before Halloween.

Many people at this time of year become stressed out over too many activities, what with holiday parties, shopping, and family get together. Psychologist Karen Vatthauer of Beacon Counseling in Taylorville tells Regional Radio listeners that it may pay you to slow down a bit:

 [audio:vatthaueronholidays112111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Vatthauer says if you want to enjoy the holidays, you may need to learn to say “no”.

With Thanksgiving coming up in just a few days, most of us look forward to a family dinner. But for a variety of reason, many families don’t eat at the same table very often. Joyce Fikri of the St. Louis Dairy Council says eating together as a family is more important than you might think:

Fikri says it’s not always easy to get together in today’s busy world, but it’s the effort.

The Christian County 4H Club has several plans for the upcoming weeks and months. Christina County 4H Coordinator Jodi Heberling says they are looking ahead to activities for the holidays and beyond:

14 Central Illinoisans were indicted last week by a Christian County Grand Jury. Charges include aggravated battery, domestic battery, drug possession, theft, forgery, unlawful use of a weapon, and obstructing justice. 22-year-old Steven Gatton of Langleyville was indicted for failure to registers as a sex offender. 37-year-ol d Delbert Dilley of Pana was indicted for possession of meth making materials.

Three Christian County women were arrested last week on charges of retail theft. Taylorville Police were summoned to the Taylorville Wal-Mart around 3pm, Thursday on reports of theft. Cops arrested 21-year-old Brianne L. Hughes of Taylorville, 22-year-old Samantha Jo Harp of Taylorville, and 23-year-old Nicole R. Schneider of Morrisonville. Two of the women were processes and released at the Taylorville police department. One of the women was found to have a warrant out for her arrest in Montgomery County. She was taken to the Christian County Jail where she was held in lieu of bond.

Monte Ball thrashed the Illinois Fighting Illini defense for 224 yards and two touchdowns as Wisconsin took down the Illini 28-17.  Illinois led 17-7 at halftime, but fell apart with four second-half turnovers as the Illini dropped their fifth straight game.  They will head to Minnesota to take on the Gophers in the regular-season finale.

Missouri became bowl eligible with their 31-27 victory over Texas Tech.  James Franklin rushed for 152 yards and two touchdowns including the game-winner with 2:22 left in regulation.  The Tigers were without coach Gary Pinkel, who was serving a school imposed one game suspension after being arrested on suspicion of drunken driving last week.  Mizzou will take on Kansas at Arrowhead this week in the regular-season finale.

The Chicago Bears will be without starting quarterback Jay Cutler for an extended time.  The veteran signal-caller suffered a broken thumb on his throwing hand during Sunday's win over the San Diego Chargers.  Head coach Lovie Smith says Cutler will have surgery, but hopes to have him back before the end of the regular season.  Cutler did finish Sunday's game, throwing for 286 yards and two touchdowns against the Bolts.  The Bears have won five straight and are in the thick of the NFC Wild Card race at 7-and-3.  Caleb Hanie will start Sunday's game at Oakland.

The Chicago Blackhawks continue a six-game road trip on Wednesday as they square off against the San Jose Sharks at HP Pavilion.  The 'Hawks have dropped back-to-back games on the heels of a four-game winning streak to fall to 12-6-and-3 on the season.  They are coming off a 9-2 defeat at the hands of Edmonton on Saturday.  Chicago plays at Anaheim on Friday and wraps up the road swing on Saturday at Los Angeles.

Average retail gasoline prices in Illinois have fallen 7.3 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.46/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 5.7 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.36/g, according to gasoline price website IllinoisGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Illinois during the past week, prices yesterday were 51.0 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 0.1 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 11.1 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 49.3 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

At 9:05 on Monday, November 21^st, the village of Edinburg Public Water Supply issued a precautionary Boil Order affecting customer’s located on Douglas Street from Eaton Street to Campbell Street.

Water supply personnel will return the system to normal operation as soon as possible. After bacteriological samples demonstrate that the water is safe for domestic use. At present, the water in the distribution system may be subject to bacteriological contamination, which may cause a number of water borne diseases and/or general gastrointestinal distress.

Customers in the affected area are encouraged to treat all water for drinking or culinary purposes by bringing it to a roiling boil for at least 5 minutes.

For additional information, contact Mike Lebshier, Superintendent at (217)-623-5542.

(file photo)

New billboards in the City of Taylorville, took up the most time during the City Council’s 35-minute meeting Monday night at City Hall. The council’s ordinance committee brought a motion to the full council, to authorize additional billboards with a one-hundred dollar permit and one-hundred dollar annual fee.

A motion to table the billboard motion, failed 5 to 2, with aldermen Martin Vota and Earl Walters voting no. Then considerable discussion ensued, with both Vota and Walters commenting on the issue.

Vota told the Council that if the city tried regulating content on the new billboards, owners could file suit against the city on first amendment grounds. Vota told Regional Radio News after the meeting, that those concerns are why he voted to table.

[audio:VotaaudioNov2111.mp3]comment here[/audio]VOTAAUDIONOV2111

Walters told the Council that he didn’t want any more billboards put up in the City of Taylorville, citing the fact that there were already 19 signs that were grandfathered and he didn’t want any more. Walters shared those comments with Regional Radio News after the meeting.

[audio:WaltersaudioNov2111.mp3]comment here[/audio]WALTERSAUDIONOV2111

After discussion, a motion to table the billboard issue again, was made, and this time it passed 7 to nothing.

Taylorville aldermen met Monday night at City Hall and acted on several items. The council OK’d their annual workmens’ compensation insurance renewal at a cost of some 301-thousand dollars, some 80-thousand dollars more than last year. They also approved the annual tax levy totaling some 2-point-3 million dollars, and approved a 250-dollar excavation fee before any tunneling or excavation of any city street, alley or public place occur, with a 750-dollar fine assessed if the excavation fee is not paid.

The Taylorville Council Monday night at their regular meeting, denied a request from Terry Midland, who lives at 1209 Melrose Lane, asking that the city cover engineering costs for a proposed water main extension, and they increased the rate the Village of Owaneco pays the city for water, from just over 2-79 per thousand gallons, to almost 3-74 per thousand gallons. The council also approved an amended public utility easement agreement with local resident Linda F. Olson, and changed some language in airport hangar leases addressing the late fee, tenant improvements, inspections by the Fire Department, lessee’s responsibility for electric service, and other language.

In his regular report to the Taylorville City Council, city attorney David Fines told aldermen Monday night that notices have been sent to the local businesses that violated the state’s Liquor Control Act from the recent sting. Fines will be meeting with each of them to determine what action will be taken against them for selling liquor to minors. Fines added that the local Kroger store had already met with Fines and agreed to a voluntary suspension of liquor sales from November 27th thru December 4. Alderman Earl Walters commented to the Council, that he felt such suspensions do not send a strong enough message to local liquor establishments.

Mayor Greg Brotherton in his regular report to the Taylorville City Council, told aldermen Monday night, that the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has scheduled a public hearing for Thursday, December First at 7pm at the Taylorville Junior High School cafeteria, to take comment on Tenaska’s proposed application for a construction permit for the Taylorville Energy Center. He urged both the public and council members to attend.

As heard on Newstalk 97.3, Taylorville fell to Nokomis with a score of 43-42.

The Chicago Cubs introduced Dale Sveum as their new manager Friday.  Sveum received a reported three-year deal with an option for a fourth year.  He replaces Mike Quade, who was not retained after Theo Epstein and Jed Hoyer recently came on board last month to assume the club's front office duties.  Sveum had been a coach with the Milwaukee Brewers the last six years, including a stint as interim manager when he replaced the fired Ned Yost in September 2008.  Sveum had also interviewed for the Boston Red Sox managerial job.

Curtis Glencross scored two goals as the Calgary Flames blew past the Chicago Blackhawks 5-2.  It was a one-all game going into the second period when the Flames outscored the Blackhawks 3-1 with Rene Bourque, Paul Byron and Glencross all lighting the lamp.  Marian Hossa scored his ninth goal of the season for Chicago, which fell to 12-5-and-3.  Miikka Kiprusoff stopped 30-of-32 shots as the Flames improved to 8-9-and-1.  Corey Crawford allowed five goals on 26 shots for the Blackhawks. 

The Christian County Sheriff's Department recorded the following arrests:

Nicole R. Schneider, 23, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute.

Matthew D. Gray, 31, of Assumption was arrested for armed robbery. 

Sorsha A. Taylor, 20, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for consumption of liquor. 

As heard on 94.3 WMKR, the Central A&M Girls lost a basketball game to Pana with a score of 63-56.

As heard on WTIM, with a score of 41-13, Rochester defeated Charleston.

As heard on 94.3 WMKR, Central A&M beat Matoon with a score of 51-37.

As heard on Newstalk 97-point-3 WTIM on Saturday, the Rochester Rockets football team defeated Charleston at Charleston 41 to 13, to win the right to play in the Illinois High School Association Class 4A State Championship Game on Friday at Memorial Stadium in Champaign-Urbana.

Rochester will play Richmond-Burton, which beat Stillman Valley in the other semi final game on Saturday, by a final score of 40 to 28.

The 4A State Championship game will start at 7pm Friday night, and will be heard live on WTIM Newstalk 97-point-3 and streamed live on taylorvilledailynews.com.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville girls defeated Porta with a score of 61-28.

A decision on whether state Democrats rigged legislative lines to remove Republicans from office could come soon.  John McGovern, Spokesman for the Committee for a Fair and Balanced Map, says he expects the map to be overturned.

 [audio:map1111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

John McGovern, Spokesman for the Committee for a Fair and Balanced Map, says the map is a politically motivated power grab by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.

 [audio:map2111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Opponents say the map's main problem is that it impedes on the civil rights of Latino voters who could have two Latino-controlled seats rather than one.  If the map is allowed to stand, Democrats are projected to pick up as many as five additional congressional seats in the next election.

Illinois' poorest residents are faced with paying higher income taxes according to an annual report by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.  Policy Analyst Phil Olis says the practice goes against traditional thinking.

 [audio:poverty1111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Olis's report on the impact of income taxes on low-income families says Illinois is one of the most aggressive taxing states.  Current state law requires families who are far below the poverty level to pay income tax, such as a family of four with an income of just under seventeen-thousand dollars.

 [audio:poverty2111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Policy Analyst Phil Olis says income taxes are a larger burden on the very poor.

A three-month-old South Roxana baby is dead after her father allegedly rolled over and smothered her.  Police Lieutenant Bob Coles says they've launched a criminal investigation into the incident but he's being mum on the details.

 [audio:babysmothered111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The coroner's office report says the child's parents were sleeping, but when the mother woke up she found her daughter unresponsive and underneath the father.  The child was pronounced dead at Alton Memorial Hospital.  There is no indication at this point if drugs or alcohol were involved in the child's death.

One sure sign that the holiday season is approaching is the opening of the “Victorian Splendor Lights Festival” at Forest Park in Shelbyville. Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says the fun gets underway Friday night:

 [audio:tadlightsopen111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The lights will be on Friday and Saturday nights from 6-10pm, and weeknights from 6-9pm. The Victorian Splendor Light Festival continues till the end of the holiday season.

The firearm deer hunting season is underway, and State officials say it could be a record setting year. The deer population seems bigger than ever, and the hope is the numbers will be thinned by a good deer harvest. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says you should be watching for the animals when driving, and he says he’s not sure deer whistles and other devices provide much protection:

 [audio:sheriffkondeer111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Sheriff Kettelkamp says the best advice for drivers in deer territory is just to slow down.

With the shopping season just about here, it’s more important than ever to emphasize the “Shop Locally” mentality. Fred Ronnow, President and CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, says the Chamber has a plan to encourage keeping the money at home:

 [audio:shoplocalcampaignfred111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Ronnow says one way to keep the money local is to buy Chamber Gift Certificates. They can be used at well over a hundred local businesses for everything from haircuts to grocers to oil changes. The certificates are available at the Chamber offices on the south side of the Taylorville Square. You can also buy the certificates over the phone with credit card and the Chamber will mail them out to you. The number of the Chamber is 824-4919.

This year’s harvest is just about in the books. Len Corzine, a Christian County producer who is also the District 11 representative for the corn Marketing Board, says there were a few surprises this year:

 [audio:lencorzinecrops111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Corzine made the comments to local farm broadcaster Jared White.

An accident in the parking lot of the Pana County Market Monday left a Herrick man with a couple of citations. A car being driven by 65-year-old William J. Smith of Herrick apparently rolled into a vehicle driven by Heather J. Strom of Pana before leaving the scene. Police located Smith, who reportedly said he didn’t realize he had hit another vehicle. He was cited for leaving the scene of an accident and operating an uninsured vehicle.

Pana Police are looking into a case of apparent vandalism. They were called to 1100 E. Jefferson, where Kelley E. Jackson told them the incident occurred sometime either November 14^th or 15^th. The vandals allegedly used a sharp object to scratch the finish of the 2005 Dodge pickup truck. They also apparently punctured two tires and poured what appeared to be sugar into the gas tank. Anyone with info on this incident is asked to call the Pana Police Department or Christian County Crimstoppers.

An auto accident in Taylorville Wednesday caused no injuries, but left a vehicle significantly damaged. According to reports, the accident occurred at the intersection of Cherokee and Adams streets Wednesday evening just after 5:30. 73-year-old David L. Maskel of Taylorville collided with a car driven by 46-year-old Kimberly K. Kersey of Taylorville. Kersey reported had the right of way. Maskel’s vehicle had to be towed from the scene.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest of 24 year old Anley Compton of Hillsboro on Wednesday on a charge of Burglary.

At approximately 1:30pm the Christian County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a burglary at the Rt. 16 Grain Co-Op in Rosamond. Witnesses reported that a female had removed a welder from the location and fled, leaving a male behind. The male was subsequently identified and is cooperating with investigators.

The female driver was later taken into custody in Schram City with the assistance of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and Hillsboro Police Department.  A Hobart Welder was recovered at the scene. 

As heard on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM, the Taylorville Lady Tornadoes defeated Auburn 61-12.

As heard on Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR, the Central A&M Raiders lost to Breese Mater Dei 73-65.

Bow and arrow hunters are seeing good results in the fields.  Tim Schweizer with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources says hot weather slowed them down for a bit but they picked back up as soon as the weather broke.

 [audio:hunting1111711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Licensed hunters can take their guns out to the field to hunt for deer starting this weekend.  Tim Schweizer with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources says there are a few things hunters should keep in mind.

 [audio:hunting2111711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Schweizer says firearm deer hunters should have a great harvest.  This weekend is the first for firearm hunters this season.  The second and final weekend is December 1st through the 4th.   Last year, just under 99-thousand deer were harvested during the two firearm weekends in Illinois.

About 75 high paying jobs are coming to Central and Southern Illinois.  Erin Higginson with the Indiana's Custom Staffing Services says they're looking for both experienced and inexperienced miners.

 [audio:miningjobs1111711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

About 75 mining jobs are coming to Central and Southern Illinois.  Erin Higginson with the Indiana's Custom Staffing Services says miners looking for work should come head out to a job fair tomorrow.

 [audio:miningjobs2111711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The jobs pay between 13 and 25 dollars an hour and will be located in Lively Grove, Coulterville, Eldorado, Hillsboro and other areas.  Anyone interested in one of the positions should attend a job fair in O'Fallon tomorrow.  The fair will be at the Hilton Garden Inn from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. 

The Christmas Store is coming to Strasburg once again. Liberty Unit #289 of the American Legion Auxiliary will host a Christmas Store with items for everyone’s Christmas shopping list.  Items include homemade noodles, homemade candies, soup, cookies, drink and dip mixes, Christmas ornaments, Rada cutlery, huge selection of garden gnomes for both inside and outside, decorative glass blocks, and more.  The Christmas Store is located in Kull Appliance Store beginning the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 26 and again on December 3 and December 10.  Store Hours are from 8 AM – 2 PM.  Profits from the Christmas Store will be used by the Auxiliary for community projects and items for veterans. 

Pana Police are reporting the theft of a bicycle last week. Sara M. Schloz of Pana told cops a Thrust brand bike was taken. The theft apparently occurred sometime between Nov. 9^th and 11^th. Schloz told police the bike is valued at 90$

Cardinals brass has been talking with the agent for Albert Pujols at this week's General Managers Meetings in Milwaukee.  According to the "Post-Dispatch," the Cardinals met with Pujols' agent on Tuesday and are believed to have modified last January's contract offer of about $200-million over nine years for the three-time NL MVP.  Pujols met with the Miami Marlins last week.

Chicago Bears punt returner Devin Hester was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week on Wednesday.  Hester had an 82-yard punt return for a touchdown in the Bears' 37-13 victory against Detroit, and finished with 122 yards on three punt returns.  Hester, who is tied with Hall of Famer Deion Sanders for most combined return touchdowns in NFL history with 19, picked up his 12th career special teams player of the week award.  In related team news, the Bears signed safety Winston Venable and placed Anthony Walters on injured reserve Wednesday.

Andrew Brunette's second period power play tally sparked five unanswered goals as the Blackhawks crushed the Canucks, 5-1, on Wednesday night in Vancouver.  Patrick Kane also scored with the man-advantage in the second frame for Chicago, which has won four games in-a-row.  Jonathan Toews, Patrick Sharp and Steve Montador all found the back of the net in the third to back 28 saves from Corey Crawford in the win.  Chicago continues a six-game road swing tomorrow night at Calgary.

As heard on 94.3 WMKR Centeral A and M lost a hard fought basketball game against Cowden Herrick with a score of 67-43.

Chicago Bears left guard Chris Williams was placed on injured reserve after undergoing wrist surgery, head coach Lovie Smith confirmed Monday.  Williams hurt his left wrist in the second quarter of Sunday's victory over the Detroit Lions.  He needed emergency surgery that night.  The former first-round pick started all nine games this season for Chicago, which has won four in a row to improve to 6-and-3.

Chicago also signed defensive end Chauncey  Davis to a two-year contract.  Davis had 178 tackles, 10 sacks and two interceptions in 96 games over six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.  The Bears waived defensive end Nick Reed, who appeared in seven games for Chicago this season.

The state's general revenue fund is set to get a 12-million-dollar boost.  The money had previously been set aside each year to fund death penalty cases but now that it has been abolished, there's no need to pay the fund.  Forsyth Representative Bill Mitchell says he'd like to see the money go toward trying first degree murder cases, particularly in small, rural counties. 

 [audio:mitchell1111611.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Forsyth Representative Bill Mitchell says he is willing to try, but it's unlikely a new fund will be set up.

 [audio:mitchell2111611.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Capital Litigation Fund is set to expire at the end of this year.  Mitchell says he plans to introduce legislation that would create a first-degree murder fund in its place.

There's an anti-bullying law on the books in Illinois but even that couldn't stop students from harassing ten-year-old Ashlynn Conner.  The fifth grader took her own life on Friday.  Illinois attorney Matthew David Keenan says the law doesn't outline specific bullying parameters.

 [audio:bullying1111611.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The parents of a fifth grade Ridge Farm girls say she took her own life after being bullied at school.  Illinois attorney Matthew Keenan says this could tarnish the school's reputation, but it'll be very hard to prove they knew anything. 

 [audio:bullying2111611.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Keenan says schools are not always fair when it comes to punishing students who bully.  Nonetheless, he says this could turn into a nightmare for the school district with major lawsuits potentially coming down the pipe.  Keenan says he's not tossing blame on the Georgetown Ridge Farm School District, but he says things like Conner's death should never happen.  The school district did not return phone calls.

Tuesday’s Taylorville Kiwanis Club program was presented by Barbara Westrick, President of the Taylorville Arts Council.   Her topic was the upcoming “Starry, Starry Nights” event to the held at the Court House on Saturday December 3^rd. There will be several decorated Christmas trees on display, art featuring 14 local artists, music & hors’d’oeuvres.   There will also be a silent auction. Also in attendance was Mary Freij, founder of the Taylorville Arts Council.

 Robert Richardson, Principal of THS, will give a presentation on the THS Principle/100% Effort Program on  November 22^nd.

For the latest news on Kiwanis you can log onto their website at www.taylorvillekiwanis.com.

Taylorville Kiwanis Club meets each Tuesday at noon in the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.  If you would like more information about joining Kiwanis contact Fred Ronnow at 824-4919.

The 2011-2012 Lake Land College Student Ambassadors are as follows, front row from left, Ashley Boyd, Villa Grove; Emily Limes, Bowling Green, Ohio; Katie Pieper, Stewardson; Kiersten Kasey, Ashmore; Ashley Smith, Charleston; Jessica Burke, Mattoon;  Madison Spence, Charleston; Brooke Probst, Stewardson; and Jill Sandschafer, Effingham. Back row from left, David Ammann, Highland; Matthew Huels, Altamont; Jacob Daugherty, Lerna; Gideon Dollarhide, Strasburg; Christian Lovell, Noblesville, Ind.; and Nic Turner, Oakland. 

Each year, a team of students is selected to serve as Student Ambassadors for Lake Land College. These students serve as official representatives for Lake Land College and assist the college by informing prospective students of the opportunities available to them at Lake Land. 
           

In addition, they assist with several campus organizations and special college activities. To be an ambassador, students must be at least a part-time student, maintain a 2.5 grade point average and complete an application and interview.

This year’s team has been busy attending area high schools, college fairs and the National FFA Convention, providing tours to potential students, and hosting thousands of high school students at the college during events such as Career Day and Discover Day. 

Time is running out for producers to enter for a chance to bring some additional money to a non-profit group of their choice.  Jared White has more...

The Taylorville Police Department would like to announce the promotion of Officer Evert Nation. On November 2, 2011 Evert Nation was promoted to the rank of Sergeant by the Board of Fire and Police Commission. He began his duties as Sergeant on November 3, 2011.

Sgt. Nation began his career with the Taylorville Police Department on June 28, 1998 where he began his duties as a patrol officer. During his career Sgt. Nation was a member of the Taylorville Police Department Emergency Response Team (ERT), and was assigned to the Central Illinois Enforcement Group for a brief period of time. Sgt. Nation is currently the departments K-9 handler and will continue those duties along with supervising second shift patrol.

Sgt. Nation has been very active with the department and can provide leadership not only to his shift but the entire department.

On Saturday, October 29, 2011 the Taylorville Police Department was a host location for the National Drug Take Back program which was held across the country. The Taylorville Police Department collected 71.3 pounds of unused prescription drugs. That is 71.3 pounds that will not end up in our water system or landfills or more importantly sold to individuals on the street for illegal use or consumption by children.

In Central Illinois a total of 2,543.2 pounds of unused prescription drugs were collected.

We urge everyone to take advantage of this program so they can properly dispose of unused and/or outdated prescription drugs and even over the counter medicine.

The next scheduled take back program will be held in the spring of 2012.

Events take place all year in the fight against cancer, including the Relay for Life, Coaches Fight Cancer and more. The month of October was Breast Cancer Awareness month, and a local business took the challenge. Jansen’s Heating and Air donated a portion of their profits all month long. Cindy Jansen says the disease touches everyone, so they were happy to do what they could:

 [audio:cindyj111611.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If you have questions, call Jansen’s Heating and Air at 562-5201. The American Cancer Society’s next big event is the Great American Smokeout which takes place Thursday.

The Medicare open Enrollment period is about to end. Local Sr. Citizen’s Advocate Mac McGwire says you only have a few weeks to get set up:

 [audio:macopenenrollment111611.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, call Medicare at 1-800-medicare, or contact the Illinois Department of insurance at 1-800-548-9034.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters is setting up to expand. Vanessa Wiseman of the BBBS Capitol Region says they are looking to extend their reach:

An accident Monday evening has left a Kincaid man badly injured. Christian County Sheriff’s deputies were summoned to Langleyville Road near the entrance of Kennedy Metal, where 31-year-old Derrick Lee Williamson had apparently wrecked his 1993 Nissan pickup truck. According to reports, Williamson had been ejected from the vehicle. Emergency Medical Technicians took him to Taylorville Memorial Hospital. He was then transferred to St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, where he is listened in critical condition.  

The Chicago Blackhawks are back on the ice this evening as they kick off a six-game road trip against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena.  The 'Hawks have won three straight games and are coming off a 6-3 victory over Edmonton on Sunday to improve to 11-4-and-3 on the season.  Chicago continues the road swing on Friday at Calgary.

With the league's labor situation headed for a courtroom battle, the NBA is cancelling more regular season games. According to a Yahoo! Sports Twitter post, the league has cancelled games through December 15th. November games had previously been cancelled in two separate two-week blocks. The Players Association rejected the league's latest labor offer on Monday and announced its intention to disband as a union in order to pursue antitrust litigation against the NBA.

Chicago Cubs new president of baseball operations Theo Epstein [[ EPP-steen ]] says pitcher Carlos Zambrano will get a chance to earn his way back on the team in 2012.  Epstein met face-to-face with Big Z on Monday in Chicago along with agent Barry Praver and vice president of player personnel Oneri Fleita.  Zambrano was placed on the disqualified list by the Cubs on August 12th after he was ejected for throwing at Atlanta's Chipper Jones twice in the same at-bat.  After being thrown out he cleaned out his locker and told team personnel he was quitting the team then left the ballpark.  Zambrano's veteran status gives him the right to veto any potential trade.  He has one year left on the $91-million extension he inked in 2008.  He went 9-and-7 with a 4.82 ERA last season.

A Midwest farmer turned comedian turned politician is weighing in on Illinois' massive budget deficit.  Hillsboro Mayor-Elect Drew Hastings says part of the problem is that public employees see themselves as heroes, not just citizens.

 [audio:hillsboromayor111711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hastings says he knows he'll get a lot of heat for saying that but he claims it's everyone's job to protect the community.  He says public employees demand high pensions and get perks that other citizens don't get.  Hastings' comments come as Illinois lawmakers are faced with a proposal to freeze union pay raises until the state is out of debt.  They could deal with the issue as early as November 29th when they're back in session.   Hastings will make an appearance on "Jay Leno" tonight to lay out his perspective on American politics. 

The Christian County Sheriff's Department recorded the following arrests:

William D. Bailey, 39, of Morrisonville was arrested for violation of the liquor control act and unspecified statute. 

Zackary S. Britz, 32, of Springfield was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for leaving the scene of an accident and failure to report.

Zachary T. Bland, 18, of Taylorville was arrested for aggravated battery and two counts of criminal trespasing. 

Last Thursday Taylorville Police stopped a vehicle for a registration violation. It turned out the driver was apparently operating without a driver’s license. 31-year-old Nicole R. Oller of Taylorville was arrested, taken to the Police Department where she was processed and released on a notice to appear.

The Holiday Season is just about upon us, and a Taylorville tradition will be observed December 1^st through 3^rd. Carol Alexander of the Taylorville Tourism Council, says the Holiday Home Tour is coming up. The event is now 21-years-old, and Alexander is often asked: do you ever run out of homes to feature?

 [audio:alexander111711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

For more information, go to the Tourism Council’s website, tourtaylorville.com.

36 year old Brian D. Brown of Hillsboro was traveling east on 650 N. Rd. at about 835 east.  A black cow entered the roadway from the south and Brown hit the cow.  The cow belonged to Kathleen L. Peat.  Peat lives at 835 E. 650 N. Rd.  The cow had got out of the pasture.  No injuries were reported. 

The Christian County Sheriff's Department recorded the following arrests:  

Stephanie D. Conteras, 28, of Decatur was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Tara A. Decker, 27, of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Matthew G. Bank, 18, of Jacksonville was arrested on a warrant for theft.

Colleen M. Lawrence, 25, of Assumption was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving with a suspended license. 

William M. Phoenix, 38, of TAylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Danny M. Rauch, 52, of Decatur was arrested for no drivers license. 

Chrystal K. Coleman, 22, of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for burglary. 

Mitchell R. Neece, 29, of Taylorville was arrested for battery, possession control, robbery and mob action. 

Jason L. Lawyer, 27, of Taylorville was reested for robbery, mob action and battery. 

Shannon A. Sweigart, 43, of Taylorville was arrested for domestic battery. 

Gary R.Baxter, 50.of Taylorville was arrested for domestic battery. 

The fall Veto Session may be over but a lot of big issues like expanding legalized gambling were left on the table however lawmakers did take steps to address problems with the state’s unemployment insurance trust fund...

Long time Christian County Board Chairman John Curtin’s final meeting as Chairman takes place tonight. Curtin says he’s proud of the work he’s done in nearly forty years on the Board:

The recently ended month of October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and one Central Illinois business was happy to help the cause. Cindy Jansen, of Jansen’s Heating and Air, says during October they donated $10 from every service call and 50$ from every new system installation, along with $15 for every time they helped improve the air quality and health of someone’s home. Jansen says it added up to an impressive sum:

 [audio:jantzencancer111511.mp3]comment here[/audio]

All of Jansen’s Heating and Air employees participated. If you have questions, you can call Jansen’s at 562-5201.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce holds a Business After Hours event every month. Chamber CEO and President Fred Ronnow says this month’s get-together is later this week:

An accident took place in Taylorville Sunday afternoon around 4:30 at Park and Webster streets. According to police reports, 82-year-old Grace E. Hoffman of Taylorville was unable to stop in time to avoid striking the rear end of a vehicle drive by 45-year-old Tonia A. Sheddan of Pana. No one was injured, and the vehicles were driven from the scene.

A fender bender took place Saturday morning in Taylorville. 58-year-old Rhonda M. Parish of Taylorville was reportedly backing out of a parking stall and struck 27-year-old Jonathon R. Szabo of Taylorville. No one was hurt. Parish was cited for improper backing.

An accident last Thursday evening at the intersection of Pauline and Cheney streets in Taylorville caused significant damage to 2 vehicles. A car driven by Marcia C. Johnson was unable to stop in time to avoid a collision with 27-year-old Karen Atchason of Taylorville. No injuries were reported, but both vehicles were reportedly towed from the scene.

Two Taylorville men were arrested Saturday night on several charges after an incident at the Cork and Keg Tavern in Taylorville. 27-year-old Jason L. Lawyer and 28-year-old Mitchell R. Neece were arrested on charges that included robbery, battery, mob action, and obstruction of justice. Both men were processed and held at the Christian County Jail.

Early Friday morning, Taylorville Police ended up making an arrest when they pulled over a vehicle after an apparent traffic violation. A passenger in the car, 37-year-old Kerri L. Mays was charged with illegal transportation of alcohol and possession of marijuana.

A Taylorville man was cited Thursday evening after police pulled him over and reportedly discovered he was driving an unregistered vehicle. Police reports indicate 56-year-old Robert R. Snider Sr. allegedly placed a current sticker from another vehicle on the license plate of the unregistered one. Snider was processed and released on a notice to appear.

The Chicago Cubs named Shiraz Rehman assistant to the general manager on Monday.  The 34-year-old Rehman will report to GM Jed Hoyer.  He joins the Northsiders after six seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks, most recently as the director of player personnel.  Rehman will assist the general manager on potential player acquisitions and will also assist in providing scouting, financial and statistical information to support trade and player evaluation.

The Chicago Blackhawks depart on a six-game road trip starting tomorrow night against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena.  The 'Hawks have won three games in-a-row and are coming off a 6-3 victory over Edmonton on Sunday to improve to 11-4-and-3 on the season.  Chicago continues the road swing on Friday at Calgary.

It was a short but lively Christian County Board meeting Tuesday night in the county courthouse board room.  The biggest topic of the 40-minute meeting, was a recommendation from the board’s personnel committee, to amend the job description of board chair John Curtin’s long-time secretary, Jan Bland, to include dealing with human resource issues, and also give her a 15-percent increase in pay.

Board member Jack Pearce, Junior, felt her duties should be re-assigned to the County Clerk’s office, and cited a state statute saying the county board’s clerical work should be done by the County Clerk.

[audio:PearceaudioNov1511.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Board chairman John Curtin explained to the board upon questioning, that the board chairman’s secretarial position was created when Mike Drea was chairman of the county board.  Curtin added that Drea felt he could not do the board chairman’s job without a full-time secretary, and Curtin also said the board chairman’s responsibilities have changed significantly over the years.

In the end, the county board voted 10 to 6, not to accept the amended job description for Bland’s position as presented by the personnel committee.

Curtin talked with Regional Radio News after the board meeting, about the discussion and vote, saying there various reasons why some board members voted the way they did.

[audio:CurtinaudioNov1511.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The failure of the motion to amend Bland’s job description means her current job description remains in place.

During later discussion in the board meeting about what amount was inserted for a salary increase for Bland, chairman Curtin pointed out that a 5-percent increase was put in the 2012 budget, not the 15-percent that was part of the amended job description which did not pass.  The fiscal year 2012 budget, which includes a deficit of some 349-thousand dollars, passed eleven to 5.

Christian County board members, county employees, and courthouse workers, gave board chairman John Curtin a collective “thank you” for his 38 years of service as a board member and chairman, Tuesday night after the monthly board meeting.

A reception was held in a packed 3rd floor courtroom, emceed by former Judge John Coady. Curtin and his wife Alice listened to the accolades given them by many people. Curtin retired as board chairman and a board member, after Tuesday night’s meeting. Paul Schmitz of Pana was appointed as the new Christian County board chairman.

Curtin officially gave the gavel to Schmitz at the end of Tuesday night’s meeting, and Schmitz thanked Curtin for his years of service to Christian County.

[audio:SchmitzaudioNov1511.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The room gave Curtin a standing ovation at the conclusion of Schmitz’ remarks.

Curtin says he wants to remain active in Christian County happenings, and intends to retain his seat on the Christian County Economic Development Corporation board.

Newly appointed Christian County Board chairman Paul Schmitz of Pana, says he doesn’t anticipate any changes in the way future board meetings are ran. Schmitz will chair the board effective December First, following the retirement of long-time board chair John Curtin at the end of Tuesday night’s board meeting.

[audio:Schmitzaudio2Nov1511.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Curtin ends a 39-year career of service to the Christian County Board, with the majority of those years serving as chairman.

It was the last time John Curtin gaveled the Christian County Board to order, Tuesday night, as the long-time chairman announced earlier this year his retirement from the county board effective November 30. Curtin and the board transacted quite a bit of business in their 40-minute meeting.

In correspondence, the board learned that the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will hold a public hearing December 1st at 7pm at Taylorville Junior High School, on the Taylorville Energy Center’s application for a permit to build a 3-point-5 billion dollar coal gasification plant northeast of Taylorville. The public is invited to the meeting and comments are also being taken by the Illinois E-P-A thru December.

The board was notified by New Wave Communications, the cable TV provider for Taylorville and Pana, that due to programming and fuel costs, new basic customers will be paying 21-99 a month, and new expanded customers will be paying 53-99 a month. Current customers are not affected by the increases, according to the letter from general manager Bill Flowers that was read at Tuesday night’s board meeting.

The Christian County Board in their monthly meeting Tuesday night made some appointments and approved a union agreement. John Podeschi and John Salisbury were both appointed to the county Board of Review, and the board approved a temporary job assignment form that was negotiated between the county and the union representing county employees, the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees. The board also appointed Paul Schmitz as the new county board chairman, succeeding long-time chairman John Curtin who retired at the end of Tuesday night’s meeting. 2 delinquent tax properties in Pana were approved for sale, and the board approved a yearly payment of some eleven-thousand dollars for the Office of the State’s Appellate Prosecutor to assist the Christian County State’s Attorney’s Office. The board also approved entering into an agreement with Coast to Coast R-X for a discount drug card program.

 A showcase of paintings by local artist Taylorville artist Denise Blakeman will open in the James S. Murray Gallery at Lincoln Land Community College Nov. 21.

“Portraits of a Different Nature” will be on display through Dec. 8 in the gallery, located on the upper floor of Menard Hall. (The college will be closed Nov. 23-27 for Thanksgiving recess

The artist began painting in high school but took a 30-year break before pursuing her passion.  She now holds a B.A. in visual arts from the University of Illinois-Springfield and has begun exhibiting her work in Springfield and Decatur. She works as a full-time artist in her Taylorville studio. 

Shopping during the holiday season can present unique danger. Taking a few prevention measures can help keep your holiday season joyous.  Madison County Sheriff's Captain Will Dimitroff offers a few tips. 

 [audio:shopping111411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dimitroff also says park in a well-lit area and have a shopping partner since there's safety in numbers.  He says if you see someone suspicious when you return to your car you should turn around, go back in the store, and report what you saw.

Lawmaker overruled Governor Quinn on a measure that allows motorists to pick up road kill off the side of the street.  Senator John O. Jones says hunters pushed for the measure.

 [audio:roadkill111411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

That means if you hit a dear with your car and you have the proper hunting license, you can load it up and take it home with you.  Supporters of the bill say it will save the state money.  Quinn originally vetoed the bill because of concerns that people might get injured on the road trying to scoop the dead animals up.  

State Treasurer Dan Rutherford is hoping to reunite more than 200 Illinois veterans and families with some very prized possessions.  

Christian County Board Chairman John Curtin is stepping down after nearly 4 decades of service. The Board meets Tuesday night, and members will take a minute to recognize Curtin’s years as board members and as Chairman. Curtin’s last day as Board Chairman is November 30^th.

Other items on Tuesday night’s agenda include reports from the Executive/Personnel and Liquor Committee, as well as the Audit Committee. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday night at 6:30pm on the 2^nd floor of the Christian County Courthouse.

If you’re a registered voter in Christian County, you’ll soon be receiving an updated voter registration card in the mail. The card will reflect the new districts and changes caused by the 2010 Census. Christian County Clerk Linda Curtin advises you to check the card for the changes that pertain to you. Replace your old blue card with the new green one.

If you don’t receive a new card, or if you have questions, contact the County Clerk at 824-4969 or stop in the offices in the Christian County Courthouse.

The next elections will be the 2012 primaries in March of next year.

With Thanksgiving now only a little over a week away, thoughts are turning to the holidays. Tad Mayhall, with the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce, says the Victorian Splendor Light Festival at Forest Park opens this coming Friday night:

 [audio:tadlights111411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The lights will be on every night continuing through the holiday season. There is no charge to drive through, but donations are accepted.  

In this tough economy, it’s good to know there are forces at work to improve things. Amanda Cole, University of Illinois Extension Commercial and Economic Educator, says she recently finished a webinar on the 10-99 economy:

 [audio:cole1099111411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Cold, who started her job with the Extension last July, covers Christian, Montgomery, Macoupin, and Jersey Counties.  

The Tenaska bill was not called for a vote during last week’s final days of the Fall Veto Session. The bill, which would pave the way for Tenaska’s proposed $3.5 Billion coal gasification plant to be built north of Taylorville, was expected to be presented last week. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says it’s frustration sometimes:

 [audio:mayoronstopcoalition111411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Illinois Legislature had left a lot of work undone when it adjourned last Thursday, so an extra session will be called at the end of the month. The bill is sponsored by Senate President John Cullerton.

 The St. Louis Cardinals formally introduced Mike Matheny [[ mah-THEE-nee ]] as their new manager today.  Matheny replaces Tony La Russa, who retired just days after the Cardinals won their 11th World Series championship.  The 41-year-old Matheny has no prior managerial experience, but had been working in the St. Louis organization as a special assistant in player development.  Matheny is a four-time Gold Glove winning catcher who spent 13 seasons in the major leagues with the Brewers, Blue Jays, Cardinals and Giants before retiring in February 2007.

Fitzgerald Toussaint had a career day on the ground, rushing for 192 yards and a touchdown as Michigan topped Illinois, 31-14 from Memorial Stadium on Saturday.  Nathan Scheelhaase threw for 170 yards and an interception on 16-of-31 passing and ran for a touchdown for Illinois, which dropped to 6-and-4 overall and 2-and-4 in Big Ten action.  Jason Ford rushed for 26 yards and a score on 11 carries and A.J. Jenkins hauled in eight passes for 103 yards in defeat.

In other local action, Tommy Rees was 30-of-38 through the air for 296  yards and two touchdowns as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rolled over the Maryland Terrapins, 45-21, in a non-conference game at FedEx Field.  Jonas Gray rushed for a career-high 136 yards on 21 carries and scored two touchdowns as Notre Dame won for the seventh time in its last eight games.  Cierre Wood picked up 99 rushing yards for the Fighting Irish on 18 carries, while Michael Floyd caught nine balls for 90 yards and a touchdown.  Northwestern was also a weekend winner.  Quarterback Dan Persa threw for a career-high 372 yards and four touchdowns, as Northwestern blew out the Rice Owls in at Ryan Field, 28-6.

As heard on 94.3 WMKR Central A and M won decisively against Neoga with a score of 62 to 36. 

Patrick Sharp dished out three assists as the Blackhawks skated to a 4-1 win over Calgary.  Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook gave Chicago a two-goal lead heading to the final period before Olli Jokinen cut the lead in half for the Flames.  Viktor Stalberg and Patrick Kane added a goal apiece for the Hawks, who have won two-straight to improve to 10-4-and-3.  Ray Emery stopped 24 shots in the victory.  Flames goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff stopped 27-of-30 shots as Calgary dropped its second straight to fall to 6-8-and-1.

The Florida Marlins' parade of top free agents to South Beach may include the game's biggest star.  According to the "Miami Herald," St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols is expected to visit the Marlins soon.  The three-time National League MVP is the marquee name in this offseason's free-agent pool.  The Marlins have already met with New York Mets shortstop Jose Reyes and Chicago White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle. The team is moving into a new retractable roof stadium next season and rebranding itself as the Miami Marlins.

As heard on WTIM, Rochester defeated Kankakee-McNamara, 55-21.

 Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp announced that the Sheriff’s Office had received a five hundred ($500.00) dollar grant from the Norfolk Southern Railroad.

The grant is to improve and update the DARE program material in the schools county wide. 

The Sheriff said he is Extremely grateful for the grant.  He says in tough economic times, it’s good to know the DARE Program will continue to have the materials it needs.

A measure to pay regional superintendents with local property tax funds is headed to Governor Quinn's desk.  Bob Daiber with the Illinois Association of Regional School Superintendents calls this a big victory because the 44 elected officials have been working for free since July.

State officials are arming themselves with the tools to double their efforts in the fight on synthetic drugs.  Attorney General Lisa Madigan called an emergency summit in Springfield today to address the rising number of young people using synthetic marijuana and what she calls "convenience store cocaine." 

 [audio:synthdrug1111111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The federal Drug Enforcement Agency has also joined the fight.  They've put a ban on several of the chemicals used to make the synthetic drugs, which will take effect in Illinois on January 1st.  Madigan says one of her goals is to educate parents and law enforcement agencies so they can recognize signs of people who've used the drugs and give them the tools to help take the drugs off the street.

 [audio:synthdrug2111111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Attorney General Lisa Madigan says the drugs are causing very dangerous side effects.

Today is Veteran’s Day, and a number of special ceremonies and events are scheduled to honor our fighting men and women. With the holidays approaching, Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says a card from you could make a difference in the life of a solider:

 [audio:tadcards111111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Mayhall is an active member of the National Guard. If you need more information about how you can send a card, contact Shelby Electric Coop or the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce.

Tickets are now available for the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce’s annual raffle. As in years past, a big screen TV will be given away. Fred Ronnow, Chamber President and CEO says they’ll have the drawing just a few days before Christmas:

 [audio:fredtv111111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the Chamber if you have questions, at 824-4919 or stop by their offices on the south side of the Taylorville Square.

We’re hearing more and more about identity theft. All a thief needs is a bit of information about you, and he or she can assume your persona, using credit and causing mischief in your name. Jack Myers of the Social Security office in Springfield tells Regional Radio you need to be careful with your personnel information:

 [audio:meyersonIDtheft111111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Myers made the comments on a recent edition of Inside Central Illinois on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM.

Cops Looking for White Pickup

Taylorville Police are still looking for a vehicle that apparently damaged a crossing arm at the corner of Adams and Cherokee Streets Tuesday. According to police reports, the truck drove through the intersection when a train was coming. A witness told police the vehicle was a white Chevy pickup truck pulling a flatbed trailing, last seen heading north on Cherokee. If you know who is responsible, you are asked to contact police

Hit and Run Wednesday

Taylorville police were alerted to a hit and run incident on Taylorville Square Wednesday afternoon. Officers, who were told the incident happened on the south side of the square, located the suspect, 44-year-old Scott P. Harrison. He was issued a citation and released.

Criminal Damage to Property in Pana

Tuesday morning just before 8:00 Michael L. Dodson of Pana called cops to complain of a shattered car window. Dodson said he noticed the damage Monday evening. He told police he thought the window may have been shot out with a pellet or BB gun. The situation is being investigated.

Pana Cops Make Domestic Battery Arrest

Pana Police arrested a man on a domestic battery warrant Wednesday night. 29-year-old Robert M. Durbin of Pana was also charged with resisting arrest. Durbin was brought to the Christian County Jail where he was held in lieu of bond.

Taylorville Police Arrests

Just before 11pm Wednesday, Taylorville Police made an arrest at the Casey’s East Store. Clint A. Hadden was taken in on charges of driving while license suspended.

Taylorville Police made an arrest at a Taylorville home Wednesday afternoon. According to police reports, 40-year-old Floyd R. Bandy was picked up on an unspecified warrant out of Macon County. Bandy was taken to the Christian County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

The strike at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale is over.  Faculty Association union spokesperson Dave Johnson says professors will be back in the classroom today. 

The Christian County Sheriff's Separtment recorded the following arrests:

Jordan E. Johnson, 29, of Taylorville was arrested on a warrant for theft.

Tilur M. Miller, 28, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for aggravated battery. 

Karen M. Jones, 42, of Pana was arrested on a warrant for manufacturing methamphetamine, 5< 15 grams. 

The proposal to add more casinos and slot machines across the state is moving through both houses of the general assembly.  The updated proposal does not include a provision to limit or prohibit campaign contributions from gaming interest.   Brian Gladstein with the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform sides with Quinn on the issue.

Legislation that would create a healthcare benefits exchange in Illinois is on hold because of a provision that would allow the state to negotiate lower premium rates from insurance companies.  State Representative and House Insurance Committee Vice Chairman Greg Harris says regulating premium costs would save money for consumers.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Illinois Department of Natural Resources will hold the Twenty-Second Annual Lake Shelbyville Deer Hunt for People with Disabilities during the first firearm deer season on November 18– 20.  The hunt will be conducted in portions of recreation areas at Lake Shelbyville that are closed for the season.  As a safety precaution, Lone Point and Lithia Springs Campgrounds and all of Bo Wood, Sullivan Beach, Wilborn Creek, Coon Creek, and Opossum Creek Recreation Areas will be closed to all automobile and pedestrian traffic from 2 p.m. Thursday, November 17, 2011 to 7 p.m. Sunday, November 20. 2011.

 This temporary closing includes boat ramps located within Bo Wood, Wilborn Creek, Coon Creek, and Opossum Creek Recreation Areas.  Boat ramps remaining open to serve lake users during this period of time are at Dam West, Lone Point, Lithia Springs, and Whitley Creek Recreation Areas and Wolf Creek and Eagle Creek State Parks.    

 For more information contact Lake Shelbyville Park Ranger Brock Key at (217) 774-3951 ext. 7008.

The equipment vendor providing the equipment for WEIC Newstalk 1270's new FM repeater at 107.5, informed the station's new owner, the Miller Media Group's Kaskaskia Broadcasting, Incorporated, this week, that delivery is expected around Thanksgiving.

Station officials are hopeful that WEIC's new 107.5 FM repeater can now go on the air by December 1.

Miller Media Group president Randal J. Miller, was hopeful that the FM repeater would go on the air at the same time that the 1270 AM signal returned to the air following being off the air for 10 days in mid-October to ready the station for its new newstalk format, which debuted on October 19.

But, delays in getting some of the FM repeater equipment delivered, has now pushed its sign-on date back to where station officials are targeting a date no later than December 1.

Miller thanks WEIC listeners that have been calling asking about the sign-on date of the 107.5 FM repeater.  The FM signal will come from one of WEIC-AM's towers on the northwest edge of Charleston, and reach all of Coles County 24/7.

WEIC's local programming is also streamed live and archived at the station's new on-line daily newspaper, WEICdailynews-dot-com.

The Shelby County Health Department has an immunization clinic at Shelby county Health Department on Wednesday, November 6^th, 2011 from 8:30-11:30AM. The clinic is open to all children ages 2 months to 18 years. Vaccines offered are Polio, Hepatitis B, Menactra (Meningitis vaccine), DTaP, TD, Tdap, Varicella (chickenpox), MMR, Prevnar(pneumonia), Pediarix (DTaP-HEPB-IPV Combo), Rotarix, Pentacel, Hepatitis A, and Gardasil (Human Papillomavirus vaccine). Boosters of MMR, DTaP, and Polio are required after 4 years of age or prior to kindergarten entrance. The administration fee is 10$ for each immunization. Make all check payable to the Shelby County Health Department or IPA Medicaid Card is accepted. No one is denied if unable to pay.

If you are bringing children that attend school outside of Shelby County or are new to the school system in Shelby County, you Must bring their past immunization records for the nurse to evaluate. Pre-registration before the day of the clinic is necessary to assure appointment time and vaccine availability. Clinic size is limited. All consents must be signed by parent or legal guardian and are valid for 30 days. If you have any questions concerning your children and the immunization requirements, call the Shelby County Health Department at 774-9555.

There are more and more options available for Senior Citizens these days. Lisa Schmidt of Villas of Hollybrook in Shelbyville says their recently opened facility is something to consider:

 [audio:schmitz1111011.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The apartments are not furnished, so residents can surround themselves with familiar things:

 [audio:schmitz2111011.mp3]comment here[/audio]

You can find out more at their website, villasofhollybrook.com, or call 774-1040. Villas of Hollybrook is located at 2201 W. Main St. in Shelbyville, on Rte. 16.

The Christian County YMCA is planning one of its biggest fundraisers of the year. Christ Weitenhiller, Executive Director of the Y says their annual auction is Friday night:

At press time, there were still a few tables available. Call the YMCA at 287-7271 to reserve a spot. The YMCA’s 23^rd annual Auction is Friday night at the American Legion in Stonington. The doors open for silent auction at 5:30, with dinner and the live auction at 7:00.

Another candidate has thrown their hat into the ring in Illinois’ 13^th Congressional District.  Matt Goetten of Carrolton in Greene County, currently serves as Greene County State’s Attorney and as a Judge Advocate General with the Illinois Air National Guard.  Goetten will be going up against Doctor David Gill of Normal, for the Democratic nomination to go up against Republican Tim Johnson.

Goetten was raised in Carrollton in Greene County, and attended St. John’s Elementary and Carrollton High School. In 2004, he was elected Greene County State’s Attorney.  He, his wife Erin and 2 children, live in Carrollton.

The Illinois Senate adjourned yesterday without calling the Tenaska Bill for a vote. The measure would OK the $3.5 billion coal to gas plant to be built north of Taylorville While the project would mean hundreds of jobs for the area, some legislators have voiced concerns that it would mean high energy prices for consumers and businesses alike. Supporters say the facility would add to the available baseline power, meaning lower prices. The bill, sponsored by senate president John Cullerton, is expected to be called before senators sometime today.

Tuesday’s Taylorville Kiwanis Club program was presented by Harold “Slick” Parrish.   It was entitled, “Six Decades of Taylorville Sports Memories”.   In 1947, fresh out of the Navy, he started taking pictures at Taylorville football games.   In 1948 his wife bought him a 16MM camera.   That was the beginning of a six decade run of filming and taping Taylorville football and basketball games. Parrish was a member of the undefeated 1944 basketball team, coached by Dolph Stanley and a teammate of Johnny Orr.   Parrish said the time he has spent behind the camera has truly been a labor of love.   He really misses doing it, but, it was time to retire. One of the things he shared was Coach Stanley’s curfew for players; they had to be home by nine. Next week’s program will be presented by Barbara Westrick who will talk about the Taylorville Arts Council

For the latest news on Kiwanis you can log onto their website at www.taylorvillekiwanis.com.        

Taylorville Kiwanis Club meets each Tuesday at noon in the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.  If you would like more information about joining Kiwanis contact Fred Ronnow at 824-4919.

Robert M. Durbin, 29, of Pana was arrested on a warrant for domestic battery and resisting a police officer. 

Sabrina M. Bradley, 37, of Taylorville was arrested on a warrant for possession of methamphetamine. 

Jakoby E. Armstrong, 34, of Edinburg was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

Steven A. Cole, 33, of Riverton was arrested on a warrant for criminal tresspassing to a residence. 

With the fall semester coming to a close and spring semester right around the corner, Lake Land College will have varied office hours for the upcoming fall and winter holiday season.

There will be no evening classes on Wednesday, Nov. 23. The college will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 24 and Friday, Nov. 25. All college offices will be closed and no classes will be held on these days in observance of Thanksgiving. Classes and regular college hours will resume on Monday Nov. 28.

Illinois is near the bottom of all states concerning mental health spending according to a study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness.  Ron Honberg, Director of Policy and Legal Affairs for NAMI, says the state took a meat cleaver approach to cutting services, when it should have focused on cleaning up inefficiencies.

 [audio:mentalcuts11911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Ron Honberg, Director of Policy and Legal Affairs for NAMI, says declining mental health services often just shift the cost of providing for the mentally ill to institutions such as law enforcement agencies and emergency medical units. 

 [audio:mentalcuts211911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Illinois has cut nearly a third of its mental health budget in the last four years to save 187 million dollars. NAMI will release their report detailing declines in the nation's mental health spending later this week.

Classes are ongoing with temporary instructors but reports from the Southern Illinois University campus in Carbondale are that few students are in attendance.  That’s because the faculty strike continues.  Dr. Dave Johnson, a Faculty Association representative, says the negotiations appear to be improving.

 [audio:strike111911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dr. Dave Johnson, a Faculty Association representative, says faculty members will continue to strike as long as necessary.

 [audio:strike211911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dr. Dave Johnson, a Faculty Association representative, says the strike has a lot of support.

 [audio:strike311911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The university's faculty has been on strike since Wednesday of last week.  They haven't been able to reach a labor agreement with the school administrators for at least 16-months. A federal mediator has now entered into the negotiations, but it's unclear when an agreement will reached.

Wednesday at approximately one o’clock, the Office of Homeland Security, FEMA and Noaa will conduct a test of the Emergency Action Notification system. Mike Crews Christian County Emergency Manager tells Regional Radio News what we can expect.

[audio:crews11911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

This past weekend, the Christian County Senior Center in Taylorville held one of their biggest fundraisers of the year. The Pub Stool Open has participants going from pub to pub, playing miniature golf along the way. According to Judy gates of the Christian County Senior Citizen’s Center, the event seems to have been a success:

 [audio:pubcrawl111911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Gates says there are a lot of ways the money raised will be used:

 [audio:pubcrawl211911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Christian County Senior Citizen’s center is located at the corner of Adams and Shumway in Taylorville.

Sometimes the wheels of justice turn slowly, and that can be frustrating. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says people often think delay means there’s a cover-up going on, but he says there are a lot of considerations involved:

 [audio:mayoronslowjustice11911.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The comments came in reference to a false report of sexual assault earlier this year.  

An incident at a School Bus Stop in Pana Friday has resulted in 2 female juveniles facing charges of Battery. The 13-year-old and 14-year-old may be charged after the incident at the corner of Walnut and DeWitt Streets.  

Taylorville police arrested a man on several charges the other day, 21-year-old Aaron M. Steele was charged with reckless driving and driving while license suspended along with several other charges after he was pulled over in the 200 block of E. Park St. this past Friday morning just before 9:00am.

Friday afternoon Taylorville police cited a man for a driver’s license violation. Cops pulled over 21-year-old Chase M. Windell after they noticed that his registration had expired. A computer check reported showed the Windell was driving on a suspended license. He was arrested, taken to the Taylorville Police Department where he was processed released on a notice to appear.

Taylorville Police arrested a pair of female juveniles the other day. They were summoned to a location near Taylorville High School Tuesday afternoon on reports of a fight in progress. Both girls were cited on a violation of Public City Ordinance.

Taylorville Police arrested a Taylorville man Tuesday just before midnight. According to the police report, officers saw a white Toyota commit a traffic violation near the intersection of Cheney and Pauline Streets. After the vehicle was stopped, 19-year-old Justin M. McKay of Taylorville was arrested on unspecific charges.

16 year old Devinn N. Mossof Kincaid was traveling east on twp. rd. 1800 North, when a white truck approached her going west.  Moss stated she moved to the south edge of the roadway and slid off the south edge.  Moss traveled approximately 90" through a culvert area coming to rest 18" from the south edge of the roadway.  Moss was taken to St. John's Hospital and was treated for minor injuries. 

55 year old Deborah L. Weber of Taylorville was traveling south in the 700 block of North Perrine street, and 37 year old Nathan A. Rogers of Kincaid was traveling north.  Weber hit Rogers in the middle of the roadway.  Rogers tried to avoid Weber vehicle, but was not able to move over any further.  Weber stated she did not see Rogers vehicle.  Weber was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital and was treated for minor injuries. 

16 year old Devinn N. Mossof Kincaid was traveling east on twp. rd. 1800 North, when a white truck approached her going west.  Moss stated she moved to the south edge of the roadway and slid off the south edge.  Moss traveled approximately 90" through a culvert area coming to rest 18" from the south edge of the roadway.  Moss was taken to St. John's Hospital and was treated for minor injuries. 

55 year old Deborah L. Weber of Taylorville was traveling south in the 700 block of North Perrine street, and 37 year old Nathan A. Rogers of Kincaid was traveling north.  Weber hit Rogers in the middle of the roadway.  Rogers tried to avoid Weber vehicle, but was not able to move over any further.  Weber stated she did not see Rogers vehicle.  Weber was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital and was treated for minor injuries. 

The nationwide Occupy movement is making its way to Illinois college campuses.  Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville is holding an “Occupy” Wednesday but organizer Harry Zollars says this event will have a different twist. 

 [audio:occupyill111811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Organizer Harry Zollars says students have expressed four major concerns. 

 [audio:occupyill211811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Students, faculty, and staff can write their concerns about society, politics, and education on a Wall of Grievances which is set up in the Morris University Cafeteria.  The issues will be addressed at a rally around “The Rock” on the quad at 10 a.m. Wednesday. There will be a solutions and plan of action panel immediately afterwards at 11a.m in the Goshen Lounge.  The session will allow student organizations to identify an issue that affects them and then create solutions to the problem.  For more information, check out www.Facebook.com/OccupySIUE.

Governor Quinn says he's prepared to shut down seven state facilities if lawmakers don't give him more money this week.

Governor Quinn cut more than 360-million dollars from the state's budget this year but lawmakers are looking to override some of those budget vetoes this week.  Governor Quinn says that's not a good idea.

 [audio:quinnvetoes11811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lawmakers are back in Springfield this week to finish up work in veto session this week.  They'll deal with several issues including gaming, finding a way to avert a layoff plan for 19-hundred state workers and paying the state's 44 regional superintendents who haven't been paid since July 1st. 

This week CRIME STOPPERS is seeking information about a burglary that occurred in Taylorville.

Sometime in the overnight hours of Saturday October 8, 2011 and Sunday October 9, 2011 person or persons unknown entered into Classic Bouquet, located at321 North Madison Streetin Taylorville.  While inside the unknown subject or subjects took 2 computer keyboards and cash.  A window had been damaged on the building to gain entry.

Please call CRIME STOPPERS if you have any information about this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons. CRIME STOPPERS will pay cash rewards up to $1,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you DO NOT have to give your name. CRIME STOPPERS will pay double the normal reward for information leading to an arrest for the crime of the week.

You can contact CRIME STOPPERS at 824-9100, at our website ChristianCountyCrimeStoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274637) keyword CCCS and then your tip.  As always you will remain anonymous.

The Christian County Emergency Management Agency is reminding local citizens The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The nationwide test will occur on Wednesday, November 9 at 2 p.m. eastern standard time and may last up to three and a half minutes.

 The EAS is a national alert and warning system established to enable the President of the United States to address the American public during emergencies.  NOAA's National Weather Service, governors and state and local emergency authorities also use parts of the system to issue more localized emergency alerts.

 Similar to local EAS tests that are already conducted frequently, the nationwide test will involve broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television services and wire line video service providers across all states and the territories of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa.

 At 1pm, Wednesday, the public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test." The audio message will be the same for both radio and television. Under the FCC's rules, radio and television broadcasters, cable operators, satellite digital audio radio service providers, direct broadcast satellite service providers and wire line video service providers are required to receive and transmit presidential EAS messages to the public. A national test will help the federal partners and EAS participants determine the reliability of the system and its effectiveness in notifying the public of emergencies and potential dangers nationally and regionally.

Start your day with an “all you can eat” pancake and whole hog smoked sausage   breakfast in Strasburg this weekend at the 4th annual Santa Brigade Breakfast & Market to be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church on Saturday, Nov. 12, from 6-11 a.m. 

The event, hosted by Strasburg Community Action Network (SCAN), will also include a Christmas market and free coat giveaway from 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m.  Local artisans will help you jump start your Christmas shopping with gifts of jewelry, stepping stones, embroidery, ornaments, crafts, bows,  soaps, honey, baked goods,  noodles, and more.   Consultants for Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, Fuller Brush, Thirty-One and more will feature their holiday specials.

A limited number of 2011 Strasburg hand-painted gnome ornaments will be available for purchase.  Also available will be the 2012 Strasburg Calendar featuring over 30 pictures of veterans – both past and present.  $2 of the proceeds from each calendar sold will be donated to the Strasburg American Legion Post #289. 

The Orphan Grain Train of St. Paul’s is sponsoring a free coat give-away now through the breakfast.  Anyone in the community in need of a warm coat is invited to take part.  Coats of all sizes are hung in the hallway of St. Paul’s School which is open during day-light hours. 

Don't forget to register for the 50/50 drawing.  A free will donation will be taken for the breakfast. For more information call Lisa at 217-644-3123, visit the Strasburg website at www.strasburgil.com, or Facebook “I know where Strasburg, Illinois is!”

Getting grants is not easy. It takes a carefully written request to be successful, and most people don’t know what is required. Mac McGuire, a local Senior Citizen’s advocate, has experience with writing grants and says it’s not for the amateur.

 [audio:macongrants11811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McGwire made the comments on Monday morning’s WTIM Open Line.

The City of Taylorville got a substantial grant last week from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation for the installation of Solar Photovoltaic lights at the airport. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says it’ll be a win-win situation for the city:

 [audio:mayoronairport11811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The grant was for nearly 53,000. The city is still waiting for a 30,000 rebate from the Department of Commerce and Economic opportunity that would also help fund the project. If the rebate is received and added to the grant, about 3 quarters of the necessary money for the project will be secure.

One organization that has seen changing times is the 4H. The trend has been towards inclusion of more urban themes. Peggy Hampton, 4H Youth Development Educator, says they try to stay ahead of the curve:

 [audio:phampton4h11811.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hampton is 4H Youth Development Educator for Christian, Montgomery, Macoupin, Jersey Counties.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Illinois Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are enlisting the help of Illinois hunters in efforts to track feral swine and assist in slowing the population and expanding range of the invasive animals in the state.

Feral swine – often referred to as feral hogs and wild pigs – are defined as free-ranging animals that are not under domestic livestock confinement.  They are an invasive species competing with native wildlife for food resources and damaging soil through their rooting and feeding activities, increasing soil erosion and damaging crops, plants and water quality. Feral swine also are known to carry at least 30diseases that pose serious implications for people, pets, wildlife and livestock.

Hunters, landowners, and others who see feral swine in Illinois are asked to report the sightings to the IDNR Division of Wildlife Resources at 217/785-2511. Hunters in the field who observe feral swine and possess a valid Illinois FOID card can – with the permission of the landowner – legally shoot the wild hogs.

The reception honoring the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce’s “Member of the Quarter” is coming up. Fred Ronnow, Chamber President and CEO, says they choose only four a year for the honor:

 [audio:chamberreception11711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Contact the Chamber if you’d like to attend. The number is 824-4919, or you can stop by the Chamber offices on the south side of the Taylorville Square.

The Taylorville Main Street organization is dedicated to upgrading the downtown area. Becky Edwards, the Director of Taylorville Main Street, says they are able to tap into a number of resources in their quest to do that:

 [audio:mainstreetedwards11711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Becky Edwards was recently appointed Director of Mainsteet.

Gary Letterly, Energy and Environment Stewardship Educator for the University of Illinois Extension Christian County, was a recent guest on the WTIM Farm Show with local farm broadcaster Jared White. Letterly says there is a reason a commodity like tropical maize is grown in a non-tropical climate like Illinois:

 [audio:letterlytropicalmaize11711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The WTIM local farm show with Jared White airs every weekday at 6:40am and 12:20pm.

The Department of Justice Civil Rights Division is investigating Choate Developmental and Mental Health Center in Anna, Illinois yet it’s representative says that’s because Quinn wanted to stick it to downstate Republicans but Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon says that’s not the case.

 [audio:choate11711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Choate is near the Democratic Lieutenant Governor’s hometown. According to DOJ documents, workers at the facility fail to provide its residents with adequate health care, protection from harm, special education services, and other vital services. Quinn’s closure plan will put more than 19-thousant people out of work.

 [audio:choate211711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Januari Smith-Trader, with the state’s Department of Human Services, declined to comment on the matter.

25-year-old Adam J. DeClerck of Stonington was traveling south on county highway #22, as was 77-year-old Dixie W. Vincent of Mt. Auburn. DeClerck was attempting to turn left into a field entrance and Vincent attempted to pass DeClerck, who was driving a Terra Gator. Vincent then struck DeClerck in the middle driver side. No injuries were reported.

The state’s multi-billion dollar deficit is forcing leaders to consider more effective ways to manage its money. Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon says they’re moving toward a more performance based budget.

 [audio:budget11711.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Simon says the performance based budget will help them sort out priorities, eliminate money that is being spent on unnecessary or duplicate programs, and keep ta tighter grip on what type of return they’re getting on money they’ve invested into state and local agencies.

The Shelby County Board has a meeting scheduled for Wednesday November 9. Board members will discuss the AFSCME contract proposal. Also on the agenda: a report from County Highway Engineer Alan Spesard, and from EMA Coordinator and Zoning Administrator Jared Rowcliffe. Board members are reminded that the CEFS Food Bank donations are due. The Meeting is this Wednesday at 9am at the County Courthouse in Courtroom B.

Last Tuesday, the City of Taylorville received notification from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation that a grant in the amount of 52,851 for the installation of a 19kW solar photovoltaic system that will be used to power their Municipal Airport’s runway lights.

The city is still awaiting notification regarding a 30,000 rebate submission to The Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity that will also help to fund this project. This rebate is paid through the Solar and wind Renewable Energy Trust Fund. If this reward is also received, the city will have 75% of the estimated project cost funded.

Michelle Marley, owner of WindSolarUSA, Inc. located in Owaneco, wrote the grant and rebate for the city. Her business will also coordinate the necessary permitting with the FAA to enable the project to be completed. Products will be procured and system installation will be completed in the Spring of 2012.

Taylorville police collared a man Thursday evening around 5pm after he allegedly created a disturbance. An employee of the Route Mart Store in Taylorville summoned cops regarding an apparently drunk man cursing and refusing to leave. Officers tracked the man to the Rancherito Restaurant next door where he was reportedly flagging down cars and stomping in mud puddles. The man, Juan G. Balderas, who police say refused to go home, was eventually arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.

While on patrol Thursday, Taylorville Police saw a vehicle driven by a woman they believed had a suspended license. The vehicle was stopped at the intersection of Richmond and Grand Avenues. 29-year-old Sara A. Panting of Taylorville was placed under arrest on charges of driving while license suspended. Panting was taken to the Taylorville Police Department where she was processed and released on a notice to appear.

Average retail gasoline prices in Illinois have fallen 2.3 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.47/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 2.9 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.43/g, according to gasoline price website IllinoisGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Illinois during the past week, prices yesterday were 45.1 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 1.4 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has not moved during the last month and stands 57.3 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

"The national average is just one penny away from being the lowest we've seen since the start of March, even as crude oil prices have risen," said Patrick DeHaan, GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst. "Just in the last week, wholesale prices have moved 13 cents per gallon between the high and low, so it does remain surprising that average prices have moved very little," DeHaan added.

Meghan K. Hunter, 35, of Niantic was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

Lisa M. Harker, 36, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Lacey M. Myers, 22, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for battery and bodily harm. 

Jodee L. Franklin, 25, of Springfield was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving on a suspended and revoked license.  

The St. Louis Blues have fired head coach Davis Payne.  The move comes after the team started 6-7-and-0 this season, good for 13th in the Western Conference.  Ken Hitchcock has been hired to replace Payne behind the bench.  Hitchcock has coached in 1,042 games with Dallas, Philadelphia and Columbus, winning the Stanley Cup in 1999 with the Stars.  He agreed to a contract with St. Louis through the 2012-13 season.

The Canucks scored five times on the power play en route to a 6-2 win over the Blackhawks.  Henrik Sedin had a goal and three assists for the Canucks, who are 2-and-2 on their six-game road trip.  Daniel Sedin added a goal and two assists, while Roberto Luongo stopped 38 shots in the victory.  Michael Frolik and Marcus Kruger had the goals for Chicago, which has dropped two straight for the first time this season.  Corey Crawford allowed all six goals on 38 shots in the loss.  The 'Hawks head out on a brief two-game road trip starting tomorrow night against the St. Louis Blues at the Scottrade Center.

Officers were summoned to Loving Arms Crisis Pregnancy Center in Taylorville in regards to a reported violation of an order of protection. After speaking with the female victim, police arrested 20-year-old Justin Michael Durbin of Taylorville. He was processed at the Taylorville Police Department, and then taken to the Christian County Jail.

Taylorville Police were called out to the 300 block of E. Pleasant St. around 1:30 Saturday morning on reports of a man who had been beaten. Officers found the man on the porch. He was reportedly bleeding from the face and body. After a quick investigation, police arrested 29-year-old James R. Everly of Taylorville on charges of aggravated battery, domestic battery, and unlawful use of a weapon.

Taylorville police were called to the scene of a disturbance in the 900 block of W. Park Blvd. Saturday night around 11:30. After an investigation, officers took 26-year-old Patrick M. Barry into Custody. The alleged victim was taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries.

Taylorville police were called to the Amity Food Mart in Taylorville early Monday morning after a report of an alarm going off. Officers and a Christian County Sherriff’s Deputy found the front door glass busted out. The owner of the business proved a copy of a surveillance video, which helped police arrest 20-year-old Travis L. Osborn of Nokomis. He was processed and lodged in the Christian County Jail in lieu of bond.  

Cops were called to Bailey’s Pub in Taylorville at just after 1:00am Sunday, on reports of a man kicking on the door to the bar. After a short investigation, police arrested 25-year-old Derek M. Sincavage of Taylorville on charges of public intoxication, disorderly conduct, resisting or obstructing a peace officer, and possession of a controlled substance.

The Taylorville City Council transacted a lot of business in their 42-minute meeting Monday night.  Aldermen passed 4 resolutions at the start of their meeting.  The first was a public utility easement agreement between the city and the owners of the 29 West Motel on West Spresser; the 2^nd was a public utlity easement between the city and land owner Louis Sloan to allow the city to lessen soil erosion; the 3^rd was a resolution agreeing to accept a 5-thousand dollar payment from one of the storm sewer project contractors, Ace Contracting of Illinois, in exchange for the city holding the company harmless for work not completed on West Elm Street, with the city to do the repair work on the street as a result; and alderman OK’d a maintenance agreement for F-A-A equipment at Taylorville Municipal Airport.

Taylorville city attorney David Fines reported to aldermen at their Monday night meeting, that it appeared as though the property swap between the city and Doctor Sloan will be closing soon.  Doctor Sloan and the city will be trading some property so that the city can get possession of a ravine along Langleyville Road to improve storm water flow.

In comments to Taylorville aldermen Monday night, mayor Greg Brotherton said it was possible that the Tenaska legislation may be voted on in this last week of the Illinois General Assembly veto session; that, as reported on Regional Radio, the city received a grant for solar panels at Taylorville Municipal Airport; and that the recent alcohol sting operation in the city netted several arrests that he intends to fully prosecute.  Brotherton also commented on the fire training exercise that got out of control recently at the former Taylorville Country Club.

[audio:BrothertonNov72011.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Taylorville aldermen Monday night passed several motions recommended by various city council committees.  They accepted the annual audit from Rich Hooper of Lively, Mathias, and Hooper; they voted 7 to one with alderman Ernie Dorchinez voting no, to retain counsel to sell some 2-point-5 million dollars in bonds for further storm water improvements, with the bonds to be paid by the increase in the city’s sales tax; and they transferred 50-thousand dollars from the general fund to the water fund.

There was some interesting discussion at Monday night’s Taylorville City Council meeting, about an Ordinance Committee recommendation to allow billboards in commercial areas of the city.  A request came to the committee from Nicholas Giacomini, owner of WC Media Outdoor Advertising in Springfield, who is proposing to buy just over 4 acres along Illinois Route 48 between the highway and the Christian County YMCA, to erect 2 40-foot poles which will have 4 billboards each.  Some Council members felt the 100-dollar permit fee per billboard was too low, but the motion to table the motion allowing the billboards, failed 6 to 2 with aldermen Ernie Dorchinez and Shaun Burtle voting to table.  The motion to allow the billboards passed by that same 6 to 2 vote, with Dorchinez and Burtle both voting no.

The Taylorville City Council Monday night voted on several motions brought from the council’s Street and Sewer Committee pertaining to the current storm sewer project.  Aldermen voted to pay various contractors some 700-thousand dollars as part of the overall project cost, and OK’d the Taylorville McDonald’s to solicit funds at West Main Cross and Spresser November 19^th, for the Ronald McDonald House.

Taylorville aldermen Monday night approved a recommendation made by the council’s public facilities committee, after that committee learned that city hall, which was built in 1972, is in need of brick repair.  The council OK’d putting the repairs out for bid.   They also voted to sell a property the city condemned and took possession of, at 26 Illini Drive, after the city spent some 21-thousand dollars in demolition and legal fees.

-30-

Soybean harvest is wrapping up across Illinois.  Jared White has more on what central Illinois farmers have found in their soybean fields this year...

#18 LLCC loses to #8 Illinois Central 25-23, 22-25, 24-26, 15-25

Record: 33-12

Next: Noon @ Lewis+Clark vs Lewis +Clark.  If we win, 3pm vs. loser of Parkland/ICC

Kills: Criss 13, Rhodes 12

Blocks: Lees 3

Assists: Bushur 40

Digs: Orrick 22, Rhodes 21

Aces: maxwell 3, Smith 3

IHSA local scores:

Class 1A

Arcola defeated Pawnee, 24-22

Tuscola defeated Moweaqua (Central A&M), 31-6

Class 3A

Macomb defeated Beardstown, 49-7

Greenville defeated Pana, 20-15

Tolono (Unity) defeated Monticello, 27-14

Class 4A

Mt. Zion defeated Breese (Mater Dei), 22-7

Rochester defeated Manteno, 42-28

Class 5A

Springfield (Sacred Heart-Griffin) defeated Troy (Triad), 42-7

Former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Bob Forsch has died.  The "Post-Dispatch" reports the 61-year-old collapsed at his home near Tampa, Florida and died suddenly Thursday night.  According to his wife, Jan, Forsch suffered an aneurysm in his upper chest.  Forsch pitched 15 seasons with the Cardinals from 1974-88.  He threw a pair of no-hitters and ranks third on the club's all-time wins list with 163.  Forsch finished his career with the Houston Astros in 1989.  He spent the last few years as a minor league pitching coach in the Cincinnati Reds organization.  Forsch threw out the ceremonial first pitch before last Friday's Game Seven of the World Series.

Vincent Lecavalier tallied the game winning goal with less than a minute left in overtime to give the Lightning a 5-4 win over the Blackhawks.  The game was highlighted by a crazy second period which featured eight total goals and a hat trick from Tampa Bay's Steven Stamkos.  Dwayne Roloson stopped 28-of-32 shots as the Lightning improved to 6-5-and-2.  Patrick Sharp had two goals for the Blackhawks in a losing effort as they dropped to 8-2-and-3.  Ray Emery allowed five goals on 32 shots in net to take the loss.

You can listen to Central A&M, Raider Football on WTIM 97.3 with a pregame start around 1:15.

Pana Football with be broadcasted through WRAN 98.3 with a pregame set around 12:45.

As heard on WRAN Pana was beat by Greenville 20 to 15.

As heard on WTIM, Central A&M fell to Tuscola with a score of 31-6.

As heard on WRAN, Pana fell to Greenville with a score of 20-15.

As heard on WTIM, Rochester defeated Manteno with a score of 42-28.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department recorded the following arrests:

Matthew S. Martin, 29, of Springfield was arrested for theft.

Nicholas L. Suggs, 27, of Kincaid was arrested for theft.

Adam J. Bivens, 24, of Decatur was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving with a suspended license. 

Juan G. Balderas, 40, of Taylorville was arrested for disorderly conduct. 

An autopsy was held today for 58 year old Dennis E. Adams of Taylorville.  Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans says that preliminary results from the autopsy are that Mr. Adams died from hanging.  There is no other evidence of injury.  Toxicology testing is pending. An inquest will be held at a later date.   Mr. Adams was pronounced dead at Taylorville Memorial Hospital E.R. at 6:13 A.M. on November 4, 2011.  Illinois State Police and Christian County Coroner's office are handling the investigation. 
 

Landmark Chevrolet Buick Cadillac will be hosting a celebration tonight from 4pm to 7pm. The celebration will be in honor of the 100^th anniversary of Chevrolet. General Manager, Bill Lynch, stated that the Chevrolet dealer has been a part of this community for many years.

 [audio:landmark11411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lynch states that this evening should be a lot of fun with live entertainment, food, and prizes to be given away. Those who attend will also have an opportunity to drive the all new Chevrolet Volt, the car that boasts an astounding 94 miles to the gallon city.

Lynch invites everyone to come on out and enjoy the evening and the great incentives that Chevrolet is offering to celebrate 100 years of business.

Don't forget to set your clocks back this Saturday night before you go to bed.  The time change will add an additional hour of daylight to the morning hours.  That means it will get darker earlier in the evening.  Officials say it's also a good time to change the batteries in smoke and heat detectors in homes, churches, and businesses.

(Pana emergency personnel take injured “victim”, James Moon to a designated area for treatment..  The Pana Community Hospital and Emergency personnel held a disaster drill at the hospital on Wednesday.)

Pana Community Hospital, Pana Fire, Pana Ambulance and Pana EMS held a disaster drill on Wednesday, November 2nd.  The drill simulated a disaster in which a tornado hit the northwest corner of the hospital causing building damage and injuries to persons who worked within the hospital.  The drill was designed and coordinated by Pana Community Hospital Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Jim Burnett and Pana Fire Chief, Rod Bland.  Emergency personnel were called to the scene and instructed to find “victims” located in the hospital that were injured in the disaster and bring them to safe areas for proper treatment.  

The drill was a test for Pana Community Hospital in the areas of communications, registration, triage and treatment.  The Pana Fire Department was testing their disaster response for large area search and rescue. 

Tornadoes and other natural disasters can strike at any time.  PCH staff, Pana Fire, Pana EMS and Pana Ambulance must be prepared to respond to such disasters.  Practice drills prepare personnel for such events and identify areas for improvement in case a real disaster occurs.

A plan to add an additional penny per ounce to the sales tax on soda pop isn't likely to pass this year.  Elissa Bassler, CEO of the Illinois Public Health Institute, says the tax is needed not just to increase state revenues but to stave off Illinois' obesity epidemic.

 [audio:sodatax111411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Tim Bramlet, Executive Director of the Illinois Beverage Association, says the state's obesity problem is bigger than one product.

 [audio:sodatax211411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dr. Kemia Sarraf, Director of Illinois-based non-profit Generation Healthy, says the state's soda habit contributes to obesity.

 [audio:sodatax311411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

A report by the University of Illinois found a one-cent per ounce tax would reduce the number of obese Illinoisans by 185-thousand.  It would also add 606 million dollars a year to the state's bank account. Beverage industry officials have been critical of the idea and say it would cause a decrease in sales,  which would put people out of work.

Eleven convicted crack dealers are home with their families after being released from prison early.  Central Illinois Chief Public Defender Jonathan Hawley says new federal guidelines reduced the penalties for crack cocaine offenses.

Little information is being released regarding an apparent vandalism case. Taylorville Police have reported arrested 2 male juveniles in connection to criminal damage to property that occurred on Halloween. The juveniles were arrested Tuesday and released to their parents pending criminal charges through the Christian County State’ Attorney’s Office.

A Taylorville man was arrested Wednesday afternoon. Police were called to an alleyway near the intersection of Park and Polar streets with reports of man on the ground. 40-year-old Juan Orneleas was apparently drunk. He was arrested and taken to the Taylorville Police Department, processed, and released.

A 3-car accident in Pana last Sunday apparently caused no injuries. According to reports, Lisa Ponzel of Vandalia and Raymond C. Grandfield of Pana were both stopped at an intersection on Polar Street when they were struck from behind by a vehicle driven by Cord P. Kiefer of Pana. Kiefer was cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.

The Tenaska question may come before legislators in Springfield again next week. The proposed $3.5 billion coal to gas plant near Taylorville would mean hundreds of jobs for the area, but it has run up against strong opposition, mostly from Exelon Corp., which owns Com Ed. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says he hopes legislators stick to their word if the vote comes up next week:

 [audio:mayortenaska11411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The legislature returns to Springfield next week for the second half of their Fall Veto Session.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce keeps track of contacts every month. Fred Ronnow, President and CEO of the Chamber says October was an especially busy month:

 [audio:chamber111411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Ronnow Says this year’s Chillifest was one for the books:

 [audio:chamber211411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is located on the South side of the Taylorville Square.

On Tuesday, Pana cops made an arrest in a burglary case at the Pana McDonald’s Restaurant. After an investigation in cooperation with the Illinois State Police and the Nokomis Police Department, 19-year-old Craig D. Stokes of Nokomis was charged with burglary and theft. He was taken to the Christian County Jail where he was being held in lieu of bond.

Last week a training fire set up by the Taylorville Fire Department got out of control, and the structure was allowed to burn down. There have been several complaints from the public, accusing the firefighters of being sloppy. Taylorville Fire Chief Jeff Hackney says the situation was handled professionally:

 [audio:hackney111411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Some have contended that the City of Taylorville would be better served by an all-volunteer force. Chief Hackney says volunteers are not all that easy to come by:

 [audio:hackney211411.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Chief Hackney made the comments on the Thursday morning edition of the WTIM Open Line.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with the Illinois State Police and Christian County Coroner, is investigating the apparent suicide of Dennis E. Adams that occurred within the correctional facility at approximately 05:30 am on Friday, November 4th, 2011.

Corrections Officer James Bedinger made the discovery during the course of his rounds. He immediately extricated Mr. Adams and attempted CPR. Additional personnel from the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, Taylorville Police Department, Taylorville Fire Department, and Dunn’s Ambulance responded to the scene. Mr. Adams was removed to Taylorville Memorial Hospital were he was pronounced dead.

The Central Illinois Community blood center is offering several opportunities to donate blood in Christian County.

Wednesday, November 9^th

     Pana—First United Methodist Church, 619 Kitchell Street; 1PM—7PM

Friday, November 11^th  

    Stonington—Monsanto, 1982 Illinois Route 48; 1PM—5PM.

For your convenience, please call 217-241-7550 to sign up or schedule an appointment online at www.cicbc.org.  Walk-ins are also welcome and truly appreciated.
   

The Central Illinois Community Blood Center (CICBC) is a not-for-profit organization that is the exclusive supplier for patients in 12 area hospitals. CICBC is a division of Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center, which serves a total of 75 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin.

The  Illinois  State  Police (ISP) announced today its firing  ranges  will  be open on November 12 to hunters for sighting in and test-firing  their  shotguns  in  a  safe environment for the upcoming deer hunting season. Firing ranges  in  Joliet, Pawnee, LaSalle, Macomb, and Pittsfield will be available to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The program is a collaborative effort organized every year by the Illinois State Police and  Department  of  Natural  Resources,  and provides these services at no cost.

Illinois Department of natural resources Director Marc Miller says the Open Range Program is a great way for hunters to be safely prepared for the upcoming season by honing their skills and making sure their firearms are in proper working order.

The public  is  asked  to  call  one of the ranges listed below before the scheduled  date to make a reservation.  Targets will be provided, and there is no charge for  use  of  the range.  Participants must possess a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card and  transport  the firearm legally by having it unloaded and enclosed in a case.

Child Birthing Classes at The Shelby County Health Department are canceled for November, 2011.

The Illinois Institute of Technology unveiled a new research facility that's set to house more than 30 start-up businesses.  IIT Provost Alan Cramb says the "Incubator-south" facility will allow the university to develop strong leaders and entrepreneurs. 

[audio:researchfacility11311.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Governor Pat Quinn was on hand for the unveiling ceremony.  He says the state's long-term economic vitality depends on projects like this one, which provides an environment of innovation and growth.  The state dished out nearly 16-million dollars to support the IIT expansion. 

Law enforcement agencies in Illinois are putting sex offenders on notice.  Keith McGillivray with the US Marshals Service says they're teaming up with local agencies to conduct compliance checks.

Illinois’ regional superintendents are still working without pay.  Bob Daibers with the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendent of Schools says state representatives will likely vote on a funding measure on Tuesday but right now, they’re still coming up short.

[audio:suptpay111311.mp3]comment here[/audio]


Four of the superintendents have resigned because of the lack of pay.  Daiber says if lawmakers fail to pass a bill that authorizes their salaries be reinstated, more resignations could be possible.  The officials cannot strike because they are elected officials but they can recess and stop work. 

[audio:suptpay211311.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Daiber says the community will suffer if their pay isn’t reinstated.

On Saturday, October 29^th a car seat safety check was hosted by the Taylorville Police Department, the Taylorville Fire Department and the Taylorville Kiwanis Club. Nearly two dozen vehicles drove through the safety check allowing parents to have their safety seat inspected for proper installation, the proper type of safety seat is being used, the safety seat meets the standards and it has not reached it expiration date.

During the safety check many adjustments had to be made and one safety seat had to be taken out of service since it had reached it expiration date. The Taylorville Kiwanis Club had provided a couple of new safety seats should one need to be replaced.

Deputy Chief Brian Hile thanked Kristine Lecocq of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club for her continued support and efforts towards this event.

An accident early Wednesday morning left an Edinburg woman injured. According to police reports, Jason Rule of Springfield was driving south on N. Cheney Street at just after 6AM Wednesday when a vehicle ahead of him stopped, reportedly because of a stopped bus. Rule told officers he couldn’t slowdown in time to avoid striking the rear end of the car driver by Stephanie A. Woods of Edinburg. Woods was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Taylorville Police arrested a local man on several charges early Wednesday morning. According to reports, cops saw a block Pontiac headed east on Park street driven by Aaron Steele who they believed had a suspended license. Police pulled the car over in the drive thru at Taco Bell. Steele was arrested on charges of driving while license suspended. A passenger in Steele’s car was arrested on alcohol charges.

 While questioning two juveniles behind the Cork and Keg Tavern in Taylorville Tuesday evening, officers discovered one of the boys was in possession of a marijuana pipe. He was arrested on drug paraphernalia charges, processed, and released into the custody of his mother.

A Taylorville native who is a former Govenor and US Senator is at the center of a financial scandal. Jon Corzine, who leads MF Global Holdings, is being questioned over apparent misuse of funds. Andrew Ross Sorkin, a financial analyst and columnist for the New York Times, said on NBC Television that there is a lot of money at the root of the controversy:

 [audio:corzine11311.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Corzine, who was raised in Christian County and graduated from Taylorville High School, became the CEO of Goldman Sachs before being elected US Senator from New Jersey and then the State’s Governor.

If you’re like most people, you find it difficult keeping up with Medicare changes and paperwork. Mac McGwire, a local Senior Citizen Advocate, says there is help out there:

 [audio:macmcguire11311.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McGwire made the comments on a recent edition of “Inside Central Illinois” on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM.

With the colder weather settling in, you may be looking for ways to stay active without have to go outside. The Christian County YMCA may be the answer. Christ Whitenhiller of the Y says they offer martial arts classes that not only teach self-defense, but help you keep in shape as well:

 [audio:ymcamartialarts11311.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the Christian County YMCA if you have questions, at 287-7271.

The state’s new acting director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture has a background well rooted in farming. Jared White has more…

The Christian County Sheriff's Department recorded the following arrests:

Dionte A. Polford of St. Louis, Mo was arrested on 11-2-111 on a bond forfeiture warrant for battery. 

Calvary Baptist Church in Taylorville hosted its annual Trunk or Treat Festival on October 31, 2011. The event has become a huge hit, drawing children and adults alike from Taylorville and many of the surrounding communities. This year, it was estimated that over 2000 people attended the festivities that featured approximately 25 vehicles decorated in a huge variety of themes. There was music, free hot dogs, nachos, pop corn, hot chocolate, bounce houses and candy. Lots and lots of candy.

 Calvary Baptist started the outreach program in 2005 as a way to provide the children of the area with a safe alternative to Trick or Treating. The festival has grown in attendance and participation each year, with this year being the biggest by far.

Gas prices continue to rise and fall and according to Patrick DeHaan with GasBuddy.com, drivers can expect to see much of the same for at least a few months.                                       

[audio:gasprices11211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

DeHaan says the economy will be the primary driver on how gas prices will move.  That means the holiday season won't have much of an impact on gas prices. 

A recent poll conducted by the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute shows voters may support an increase in sales and cigarette taxes.  Mattoon Senator Dale Righter says that's a sure fire way to drive economic commerce out of Illinois.

[audio:cigtax111211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

A cigarette tax increase was originally included with the plan to raise the income taxes earlier this year.  The additional one dollar per pack was slated to go to schools but it didn't make the cut. 

Pana Community Hospital offers CPR classes monthly to the general public and anyone needing CPR certification and re-certification.  The class teaches vital skills that can save a life!

The next CPR class will be held Tuesday, November 8^th at 1:00 pm in the Community Meeting room located on the lower level of Pana Community Hospital.  The cost for the class is $20 for all non-Pana Community Hospital employees.  The fee is to be paid at the time of the class.  Registration for the class is required by calling the hospital at 562-2131.  Next month’s class is scheduled for December 8th. 

Open registration begins today for the spring 2012 semester at Lincoln Land Community College.

New, current and returning students may register in person, by phone or online through WebAdvisor, available at www.llcc.edu (upper right-hand corner). Students may also plan their spring schedules using FORWARD class schedule/magazine, which was mailed to area households and can also be found online at www.llcc.edu/admissions.  More information about registering for classes is available by calling Registration Services at 217.786.2292.

 [audio:StallmanonRegistration.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Prospective students wishing to learn more about LLCC are invited to attend Campus Visit Day Saturday, Nov. 5 from 8:30 a.m. to noon or Open House Tuesday, Nov. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. in A. Lincoln Commons on the Springfield campus.

RSVP for Campus Visit Day or Open House at www.llcc.edu or call 217.786.2577.. Families are welcome. 

Christian County Historical Society is planning their 27^th Annual Persimmon Party to be held Saturday and Sunday, November 12 & 13, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. on the Museum grounds located at Routes 48 and 29 in Taylorville.

The Persimmon is said to be able to predict the winter weather. When persimmon seeds are opened, their insides resemble tableware. A knife shape predicts cold and cutting winds; the spoon: wet and heavy snow will fall; and the fork predicts light snowflakes. Similar to the “Old Farmer’s Almanac” predictions, the fruit is very reliable in its predictions. Come out and see what the persimmons are predicting for this winter.

Persimmon cookbooks, baked goods and persimmon fruit will be available for sale. Samplings of many of these homemade recipes will be available. There is no fee to attend but donations will be accepted. Christian County Genealogical Society will be selling Barbeques, chips and beverages in support of the Historical Society. We will have local honey for sale also.

For more information about the event or if you would like to assist in making this a successful event please contact President of the Historical Society & Museum Jodi Heberling at 824-6922.

This week CRIME STOPPERS is seeking information about two vehicle thefts that occurred in Taylorville.

 Sometime around 10:45 pm on Wednesday October 26, 2011 person or persons unknown made entry into 2 vehicles that were parked in the parking lot located at Bob Riding in Taylorville.  The 2 vehicles, a 2010 black Lincoln MKT and a Harley Davidson Edition Ford F-150, were believed to last be scene heading towardSpringfield.  A third vehicle a gray Dodge Charger was seen in the area of prior to the thefts and maybe involved.  The vehicles have not been recovered at this time.  The total amount of the vehicles in unknown at this time.

 Please call CRIME STOPPERS if you have any information about this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons. CRIME STOPPERS will pay cash rewards up to $1,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you DO NOT have to give your name. CRIME STOPPERS will pay double the normal reward for information leading to an arrest for the crime of the week.

 You can contact CRIME STOPPERS at 824-9100, at our website ChristianCountyCrimeStoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274637) keyword CCCS and then your tip.  As always you will remain anonymous.

Even though harvest 2011 is just about in the books, the process of Ag Education continues. Anne Lupton, Ag Educator for the University of Illinois Extension says her grade school students learned about apples last month, this month they’ll learn about a product not even grown in Illinois:

 [audio:annluptoncranberries11211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lupton’s students from Kindergarten through 4^th grade all learn about a specific new topic every month.

If you’ve been having trouble navigating through the construction areas in the City of Taylorville this season, you’ll be glad to know that most of the work is winding down. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says there are still a few things to be done this year:

 [audio:mayoronconstruction11211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Mayor acknowledges that there was a great deal of construction in the city this year.

The Social Security Administration is trying to streamline the process of determining client eligibility for benefits. Jack Myers of Social Security tells Regional radio listeners they have recently upgraded the process:

The Christian County Sheriff's Department recorded the following arrests:

Craig D. Stokes of Nokomis was arrested on 11-2-11 for burglary.

Justin M. Bright of Taylorville was arrested on 11-1-11 on a bond forfeiture warrant for sex offender registration non-compliance. 

Reginald D. Berry of Clarksdal, MS was arrested on 11-1-11 on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Low income families that need help with home heating expenses can apply for the LIHEAP program starting tomorrow.  Marcelyn Love with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity explains which homes are eligible.

[audio:liheap11111.mp3]comment here[/audio]

LIHEAP clients will have the option of choosing between the traditional Direct Vendor Payment plan or the new Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP). The PIPP is available to clients who are customers of Ameren Illinois, ComEd, Nicor Gas and Peoples Gas. Under PIPP, the eligible client will pay a percentage of their income, receive a monthly benefit towards their utility bill, and receive a reduction in overdue payments for every on-time payment they make.  The traditional DVP plan is a one-time payment.  For more details go to LIHEAPIllinois.com. 

Quincy based Prince Agri-Products is expanding its reach.  President Dean Warras says they're recent acquisition of an animate product line will allow them to have a hand in keeping cows healthy.  

The Council of Catholic Women (CCW) of Catholic Church in Sullivan will host their annual Community Christmas Bazaar and Quilt Raffle on Saturday November 5, 2011 from 9AM to 12PM.

Handcrafted items and holiday decorations plus Christmas candles and ornaments will be featured. The bazaar also features many Christmas trees that are on display and for sale.  A bountiful mix of sweets and treats such as fresh pecans, homemade cookies, pies, cakes and candies will be available for purchase. Plus, fresh kettle korn will be sold on-site.

 This year, there are a variety of displays and tables selling other holiday decor, including Easter, Halloween, Thanksgiving, St. Patrick's Day & more.  For the crafter, there is an area that is filled with crafting, sewing and scrapbooking items for purchase. 

The event has grown regional attention and considered to be both a holiday tradition and a great resource for shopping for the holidays.

For more information, please contact Cassie Yoder at (217) 254-4012.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will host a meeting with the public to discuss the current Water Control Plan, 2011 Water Control Operations and Dam Safety on November 3, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at Lake Shelbyville’s Visitor Center in the Dam East Recreation Area off of IL Route 16, east of the Lake Shelbyville Main Dam, Shelbyville, IL.  After the presentations, members of the St. Louis District and Lake Shelbyville, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be available for questions.  For more information contact the Lake Shelbyville Project Office at (217) 774-3951.

The Central Illinois Community blood center is offering several opportunities to donate blood in Christian County.

Wednesday, October 9^th

     Pana – First United Methodist Church, 619 Kitchell Street; 1 PM – 7 PM.

Friday, November 11^th

     Stonington – Monsanto, 1982 Illinois Route 48; 1 PM – 5 PM.

Call 217-241-7550 to sign up or schedule an appointment online at www.cicbc.org.  Walk-ins are also welcome and truly appreciated.
   

The Central Illinois Community Blood Center (CICBC) is a not-for-profit organization that is the exclusive supplier for patients in 12 area hospitals, including Taylorville Memorial and Pana Community hospitals. CICBC is a division of Mississippi Vally Regional Blood Center, which serves a total of 75 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin.

The Shelby County Health Department would like to announce the upcoming Childbirth classes with instructors Brooke E. Verdeyen, R.N. and Jeri Danneberger, R.N. of the Shelby County Health Department. Class will begin November 3^rd 2011.

The classes will cover labor and delivery, breathing and relaxation techniques, pain management, cesarean delivery, and newborn care. The class will also provide information on breastfeeding and the post-partum period.

The classes will be held for 4 weeks from 6-8:30PM with the first class schedules Thursday, November 3^rd. There is no charge for these classes.

Those interested in attending should contact the Health Department 774-9555 as soon as possible to register due to limited class space. Support coaches, whether they are a spouse, relative, or friend are encouraged to attend. The Health Department is located at 1700 W.S. Third Street in Shelbyville.

Taylorville Police, with help from the Illinois Liquor Commission, conducted an underage compliance check in Taylorville last Thursday. Six arrests were made. Establishments busted include the Kroger Store, Route Mart, Casey’s General Store on N. Cheney St., the Round Table Restaurant, Sonny’s Place and the Cork and Keg.

Those arrested are 25-year-old Dana M. Goodman of Taylorville, 51-year-old Barbara Craig of Taylorville, 63-year-old Kathleen Rhodes of Taylorville, 35-year-old Michael E. Butts of Taylorville, 52-year-old Pamela D. Kavafis of Taylorville, and 40-year-old Jill L. Szabo of Taylorville. All were process and released on a notice to appear.

Taylorville Police arrested a Taylorville man on a number of charges early Monday morning. According to reports, cops were alerted by a motorist about an apparently intoxicated driver. At the scene, officers reportedly saw the vehicle speeding and driving erratically. The car was pulled over the intersection of Wilson and Webster Streets. Police say 28-year-old Beau M. Storey of Taylorville was arrested on charges of driving under the influence, along with speeding, improper lane usage and illegal transportation of alcohol.

Taylorville Police made an arrest at just before 11:00 Sunday night. According to arrest reports, cops noticed a vehicle with outdated registration. The car was pulled over, and police reported discovered that the drive 28-year-old Erin. L. Passini was driving on a suspended license. She was processed at the Taylorville Police Station.

Taylorville Police arrested a 37-year-old Sara Langan Saturday. According to reports, police saw a vehicle driving on the Taylorville Square with only one headlight. During the traffic stop, cops discovered the Langan was wanted on a traffic warrant out of Montgomery County.

A 20-year-old Taylorville woman turned herself into police Sunday. According to police reports, Shaylee Bayne walked into the Taylorville Police Departing. She was reported wanted on a Christian County warrant. She was arrested and taken to the Christian County Jail, where she is being held in lieu of bond.

Now that Halloween is behind us, many thoughts begin turning to the upcoming holiday season. If you’re in a pickle as to what to buy for someone, Fred Ronnow, President and CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, has an idea for you:

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Ronnow says you can purchase those gift certificates at the Chamber offices on the S. side of the Taylorville Square during regular business hours.

The just month of October was Breast Cancer Awareness month. Steve Turner, a former Board Member and current volunteer for the American Cancer Society, says while most people know about the annual Relay for Life, there is another event held in Springfield that may not be as familiar:

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Turner says he has not heard whether “Strides” will become a Taylorville event in the future.

Eastern Illinois University in conjunction with the Shelbyville Senior Citizens are planning a series of meetings on eating right. Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says the meetings start this week.