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

 20 year-old Timothy M. Wadkins, of Tovey was arrested for criminal damage to property and criminal trespassing.

 23 year-old Matthew D. Jones,  of Shelbyville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

 39 year-old Brian D. Taylor of Taylorville was arrested for driving with a suspended license.

 19 year-old Timothy S. Price of Edinburg was arrested for criminal damage to property and criminal trespassing. 

 20 year-old Robert M. Reeves of Springfield was arrested for manufacture and delivery of cannabis. 

 24 year-old Jonathan S. Melvin of Taylorville was arrested for manufacturing and delivering cannabis and possession of a controlled substance.

The Christian county Sheriff's Department reported the following traffic accidents:

 46 year old Russell E. Moore, of Virden, was southbound on County.#5 and said an oncoming vehicle began to lose control.  Moore had to swerve to miss the other vehicle and when he did, drove off the roadway to the right.  Moore hit the ditch causing damage to the vehicle.  No injuries were reported. 

30 year old Edward G. Cox, of Pawnee, was traveling westbound on Northern Ave.  Cox reportedly veered off the right side of the roadway and then struck the ditch embankment.  He continued thru the ditch and came to rest in the field.  He refused medical treatment for injuries. 

 29 year old Jeffrey D. Jaros, was northbound on County. Hwy #1 about 1/2 mile south of 300 North Rd. when high winds reportedly caused him to go off the paved surface onto the shoulder.  Jaros apparently over corrected and slid sideways across the roadway into the ditch and hit the embankment causing damage to the vehicle. 

 49 year old Tim L., Kessler, of Louisville, IL was northbound on 1250 E. Rd. just south of 350 North Rd. when several deer ran into the roadway from the west side of the road.  Kessler was unable to avoid striking one of the deer.  He received damage to the front end of his vehicle. 

Pana Mayor Steve Sipes has received word from the Illinois Department of Transportation that they are considering splitting the U.S. Route 51 four lane bypass around Pana.   The original Pana bypass is designed to go from 2.7 miles north of Illinois Rt. 16 to 0.4 miles north of the Shelby County line just south of Pana.  

The full Pana bypass is 6.75 miles long and contains an overpass of the Union Pacific Rail Road, an interchange at Illinois Route 16,  Sixth Street Road overpass over U.S. Route 51, an exit just north of Pana and a second south of the City.   The cost of the full bypass is estimated at over $55 million.   Due to the length and cost of the Pana bypass IDOT is considering the option of splitting the project into two separate contracts.  With current funding issues and questions, the two separate contracts will give IDOT greater flexibility in programming and construction of the Pana bypass.   According to IDOT that split would occur near Illinois Route 16 at the north east edge of Pana.

Currently the four mile Assumption bypass is under construction at a cost of $22.8 million.   The next phase is a four mile section from four miles South of Assumption to just 2.7 miles north of Pana and is expected to cost $39 million.   That phase is funded and construction is expected to begin as the Assumption bypass is completed.   The time frames of these projects will depend on bid openings, completion of acquiring property and weather during the construction process.

Pana Mayor Steve Sipes says this is great news for Pana as developers now have a better feel as to the Pana bypass and now they can start making firm plans on projects at the north eastern edge of Pana.

Developers have viewed Pana as being in the middle of a 180 mile transportation travel corridor from Bloomington Illinois to Mt. Vernon, Illinois.    Illinois Rt. 29 feeds traffic to the intersection at Pana with U.S. Route 51 and Illinois Route 16 which has become referred to as “Pana Crossing”.  

The Christian County Extension Office continues to offer webinars.  Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi says there is one next week:

Here’s something you may not know: cheese is good for your teeth.  Joyce Fikri of the St. Louis Dairy Council, says there are several reasons for this: 

[audio:fikricheese022912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Fikri says eating cheese in moderation makes for a very healthy addition to your diet.

The City of Taylorville is planning to purchase solar panels to be installed at the airport.  The power derived from the panels will go into the power grid to help offset the cost of electricity.  Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says it’s a great idea for many reasons:

 Lincoln Land Community College will be closed for mid-semester recess Saturday, March 3 through Sunday, March 11.  No classes will be held and all administrative offices at the Springfield campus and outlying locations including Taylorville in the LLCC district will be closed. Regular business hours will resume Monday, March 12. 

LLCC-Capital City Training Center, 130 W. Mason, and the Illinois Small Business Development Center at LLCC, #8 Old State Capitol Plaza in Springfield will maintain their regular hours from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department issued the following arrests.

Melissa D. Miller, 36, of Mulberry Grove, was arrested on an original arrest warrant for operating a vehicle without insurance.

Jason M. Barr, 38, of Pana, was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for domestic battery.

Bayleigh M. Durham, 19, of Taylorville, was arrested for illegal consumption of liquor.

Mariccia C. Johnson, 20, of Taylorville, was arrested for illegal consumption of liquor.

Tahra L. Andrews, 20, of Kincaid, was arrested for illegal consumption of liqour.

Brandon S. Wake, 20, of Morrisonville, was for illegal consumption of liqour.

Christopher D. Scallions, 23, of Taylorville, was arrested for aggravated assault.

Lora L. Jones, 19, of Pana, was arrested for possession of liquor.

Darren K. Reichert, 38, of Blue Mound, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Edward G. Cox, 30, of Pawnee, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Joseph L. Barker, 28, of Taylorville, was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for battery.

Ronee N. Foraker, 27, of Taylorville, was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for battery.

On Sunday an officer was sent to room number 19 at the Gas Light Motel in Taylorville regarding criminal damage.

An officer spoke with Nathan Wiggle and Wiggle said that Lacey M. Price, 21, of Taylorville, damaged his truck.

Price also kicked in the door to room number 19 at the motel. Price was later found at 221 East Adams Street in Taylorville and was arrested for criminal damage.

Price was released on a notice to appear.

A fire has hit the same family twice in less than two weeks.

The Rosamond home of Jim Dickson was engulfed in flames when the Pana Fire Department got on the scene, says Pana Fire Chief Rod Bland.

[audio:RBland022712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The home did not survive the fire, but there were no injuries sustained to the family or the firefighters.

The cause of the fire is not yet known, but if anyone has any information regarding this fire contact the Arson hotline at 800-252-2947, Christian County Crime stoppers at 800-568-TIPS, or the Pana Police Department at 217-562-2141.

Miss Illinois USA 2012 says she wants to build relationships with students who feel they can't finish high school.  Ashley Hooks says some kids get discouraged and feel the need to dropout.

Faculty at the University of Illinois are calling on President Michael Hogan to resign.  They penned a letter to the Board of Trustees expressing their lack of trust and confidence in Hogan's ability to lead the university. 

One of the many complaints outlined in the letter is that Hogan bullied members of the Senate committee about his enrollment proposals. 

They also say he's treated University Chancellor Phyllis Wise with extraordinary disrespect, chastising her when she didn't do exactly what she was told.  He had asked her to quell faculty opposition to the enrollment plan. 

The faculty members also accuse Hogan of being preoccupied with his own power and the way they see it, they have quote, "no need for kings or petty tyrants" on campus. 

U.S Senator Dick Durbin praises the postal processing plant in Quincy and says he's doing eveything he can to save it and others across the state.  

[audio:durbinpo022712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Postal plants in Quincy, Carbondale,Centralia, Effingham, Springfield, and Bloomington are slated for closure. 

Durbin says he and 11 other senators are ready to move forward with a bill that would trim down the number of post offices on the closure list. 

Abtary G. Kehies, 88, of Pana, was traveling north in his 2005 Chevrolet pick-up truck on Route 51. Kehies was on Route 51 at County Road 3200 three miles north of Ramsey.

Kehies ran off the roadway, struck a utility pole, and rolled over. Kehies was ejected from the vehicle on impact of the crash.

Kehies was taken to Fayette County Hospital where he died.

The Taylorville Park Board has many fun and interesting activities for kids and adults alike upcoming in summer and spring.

Coming up on March 8th there is a meal being prepared for the Senior Citizens. The meal will include Beef and Vegetable Stew.

The Park Board will also be celebrating Earth Day on Sunday April, 22nd. This event will be held at the Boys Scout Pavilion in Manner's Park.

Day Camp is always a big event for the park and that will continue this year with the idea of having a salsa garden and a pizza garden. The contents of the garden will be used for a pizza and a salsa party.

Another issue on the docket at the meeting was starting a running club similar to running clubs in Springfield and Decatur.

It was not all good news at the meeting though as Park Maintenance Superintendent Gary Brand had concern over the gully near the newly cleaned up pond at Manner's Park.

Brand's concern was about young children jumping and climbing near a big drop-off that could potentially cause serious damage.

Brand did have an idea to put a fence up with a sign warning people of the potential danger to lessen the risk of injury.

The Early Childhood Education and Family Services Club at Lake Land College recently held a canned food drive on campus.

A total of 180 pounds of non-perishable items were collected and donated to the Mattoon Community Food Center.

Club Advisor Teresa Lang says the club always strives to give back to the community.

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

The plan to shut down Jacksonville Development Center is moving forward. Governor Quinn says he wants to work with families to make the transition to community care a smooth one but Donald Pannier says his son needs full time supervision.

[audio:rddPannier1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Officials with Shell Oil Company say the Wood River Blending Plant in Roxana will be closing by the end of 2013.  Plant Manager Gary Gregg says the building needs to be upgraded.

Still shocked from the passing of Chamber President the Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is trying to move forward with a new President.

Patty Hornbuckle Chairwoman of the Board of Directors and acting President of the Taylorville Chamber of Commerce says Fred will be very difficult to replace, but is looking for someone who can try to fill his shoes.

[audio:PattyFred0227121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

To apply for the position turn in your resume to the chamber office at 108 West Market Street #2.

A staple of local businesses, Larry's Service Center is moving to a new address.

The new locale will be at 710 West Springfield Road across from Taylorville High School.

Larry Barry the owner of the business says the main reason for the move was environmental.

[audio:LarryBarryEnvironment022312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Larry also talked about how the building of the new location is ahead of schedule.

[audio:LarryBarryEnvironment022312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Larry’s Service Center is currently located at 401 North Webster Street in Taylorville.

As heard on WTIM, Taylorville lost to Matoon with a score of 60 to 51 effectively ending the season.

The Christian County Sheriff's department recorded the following arrests.

Jacob M. Masterson, 19 of Jeisyville was arrested for illegal consumption of alcohol.

Julie A. Davis 22 of Pana was arrested for a bond forfeiture warrant on an unspecified statute.

On 2-23-12 an officer with the Taylorville Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for unsafe equipment.

State Representative Wayne Rosenthal, a Republican from Morrisonville, is among those commenting on Governor Pat Quinn’s Wednesday budget address:

[audio:22212RosenthalBudgetaddress.MP3]comment here[/audio]

Governor Quinn wants to invest in close to nine-billion dollars for education next year.

There are plenty of gun bills on the docket in Springfield this year.  Harrisburg Representative Brandon Phelps is behind a push for conceal carry.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Department responded to the following traffic accident.

Jacqueline N. Dilley 23 of Pana was eastbound on Bear Creek Rd. just east of 1400 East Road, when a deer ran into the path of Dilley.

Dilley said she could not slow down enough to avoid missing the deer.

Dilley did receive damage to the front end of her 2001 Chevy Extended Cab pick-up truck, but did not receive any medical treatment.

On 2-22-12 Wal-Mart requested a police officer in reference to a female shoplifter.

The female was identified as Brittany J. Wright 23 of Pana. Wright was arrested for retail theft, processed and released on a notice to appear.

On 2-22-12 at 6:25 P. M. there was a fire alarm triggered at 3020 South Spresser Street in Taylorville.

As heard on WTIM, Taylorville was beaten by Southeast with a score of 82 to 39.

After a year of government red tape the so called blend wall has been breached.  Fuel manufacturers now have the freedom to begin blending 15 percent ethanol into gasoline, rather than the current 10 percent.  Tom Buis with Growth Energy, says this is good news.

[audio:ethanol1.mp3]comment here[/audio]
 
But growth of E15 still faces many challenges. Many states have not changed their laws to allow the higher ethanol blend, and Buis says since the program is voluntary, it will really depend on fuel makers to choose whether to increase the blend.

 [audio:ethanol2.mp3]comment here[/audio]

But with crude oil well over 100-dollars a barrel, Buis says blending more ethanol will allow fuel makers to keep the price of gasoline down.

[audio:ethanol3.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Buis says in the end it will be consumers that will drive the demand for higher blends of ethanol.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest of nineteen 19 people from an underage drinking party that occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday February 19^th.

16 adults and three juveniles were arrested and issued Notices to Appear in regards to the party which was occurred in rural Morrisonville while the parents were away.

This matter remains under investigation at this time.

Anyone with information pertaining to this, or any other crime, is requested to contact the Christian County Sheriff’s Office (824-4961), their local law enforcement agency or Christian County Crime Stoppers at (1-800-568-TIPS) or (824-9100)

On 2-21-12 officers were dispatched to 620 West Pauline Street. 9-1-1 reported that a son hit his father with a tire iron. The son left the house.

Kenneth (Bryce) Oliver, 21 of Taylorville hit his father Stoney Hayes in the knee with a Dewalt battery charger.

Oliver left the house and was walking eastbound after the incident. Oliver was detained, transported to the Taylorville Police Department and processed.

Oliver was lodged in Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond.

On Friday 2-17-12 While traveling east on Langleyville Rd. officers came upon a vehicle in the ditch off the roadway.

Edward M. Gillen, 33 of Taylorville was apparently under the influence of alcohol. After a breathalyzer test it was determined that Gillen was under the influence of alcohol, and arrested for DUI.

Gillen was transported to the Taylorville Police Department to be processed and released on $100 and his driver’s license.

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn did his best impersonation of Jack Nicholson in A Few Good Men while giving his budget address.

State Senator David Luechtefeld says it's good that Governor Quinn recognizes that the state is in desperate trouble but he doesn't like the idea of closing facilities. 

Last Thursday, the Taylorville Police Department conducted a tobacco compliance check of all businesses in Taylorville that sell tobacco products.

Circle K was found to be in violation of this check.

21 year-old Sheila M. Sullivan of Taylorville was issued a city ordinance violation for selling tobacco to a minor.

Last week's announcement by the McDonald's Corporation that it would begin working with its pork suppliers to phase out the use of so-called gestational crates is leading some pork producers to speak up. 

Nearly 650-thousand people are out of work in Illinois.  Doug Whitley, with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, says state leaders must do something to turn the economy around.

[audio:rddBiz4.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Whitley says that means lawmakers must tighten the purse strings and stop overspending.  

Whitley also says Illinois must pay down its debt, reduce corporate income tax levels, and restructure the Medicaid and pension systems. 

Whitley gives the state a "C" when it comes to job development, but Governor Quinn says he's done a much better than average job creating new jobs.

More and more people are using home healthcare these days, as a way of staying independent.  Denise Orton, of Pana Community Hospital, says they can help you make an informed decision:

[audio:ortonhomecare022112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Orton says a lot of people qualify for help:

[audio:orton2homecare022112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Orton says you should call the hospital if you have questions at 562-2131.

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

Linda L. Waldrop, 51, of Edinburg, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, assault, and resisting a police officer. 

Linda L. Waldrop, 51, of Edinburg, was arrested again for resisting a police officer, disorderly conduct, and phone harrassment. 

Tommy R. Smith, 33, of Nokomis, was arrested on an original arrest warrant for reckless driving, driving on a suspended and revoked license, and fleeing police. 

Elizabeth A. Rahar, 23, of Edinburg was arrested for driving on a revoked license.

Alicia B. Bess, 26, of Morrisonville, was arrested for aggravated battery, driving under the influence of alsohol, and on a bond forfeiture warrant for disorderly conduct. 

Molly J. Pearson, 29, of Taylorville, was arrested for domestic battery. 

Debbie R. Horn, 43, of Taylorville, was arrrested for possession control. 

Ellie S. Riggs, 18, of Raymond, was arrested for consumption of liquor.  

Bobby D. Smith, 28, of Taylorville was arrested on an original arrest warrant for residential burglary.  

Dylan B. Vickery, 19, of Raymond, was arrested for consumption of liquor. 

The Christian County Board heard a report from the Liquor Committee concerning the renewal of the liquor license for 10 local establishments. It was determined that all would be approved with the lone exception being The Loading Zone located in Taylorville. It was brought to the attention of the committee that in the last 12 months, the county deputies had responded to 35 calls and 16 fights at the establishment even after warning letters had been sent to the owner. The Loading Zone license was not approved until further review.

Jim O’Connel, representative of Postal Service Local 239, was on hand to address the Christian County Board Monday evening. He informed the board of the United States Postal Service plan to close most of the handling stations in Illinois and move the service to the St. Louis site. Mr. O’Connel reported that the St. Louis facility is the second worst facility in the United States for delayed mail. The moving of the facilities would burden the facility even more likely causing even longer delays in the delivery of 1^st class mail. The proposed change would cost as many as 122,000 employees their jobs. Mr. O’Connel presented the board a resolution, stating their displeasure with the proposed move, which they approved unanimously.

Board Chairman Paul Schmitz informed the board of a grant to replace three of the County Courthouse doors with ones replicating the originals. This grant, in the amount of $19,500, was awarded by Landmarks Illinois - Richard H Driehaus County Courthouse and is a matching grant. Chairman Schmitz informed the board that a contract was received to receive the grant but that the County was only requesting funds for 2 new doors as the third door is the south door of the Courthouse. The Sheriff requested that door not be changed because that door is used for the main entrance and vision for the deputies needs to be unobstructed.

The Board approved a bid from Sloan Implement for the purchase of a 15 foot batwing mower in the amount of $13,834.23. This bid was the lowest of 3 received. Other bids approved included $6209.72 to Koenig Body and Equipment for the purchase of a flatbed installed on the 2006 F350 already owned by the county. A bid in the amount of $68,874 was accepted from County Materials for the purchase of box culverts. The board also authorized the expenditure of an additional $4000 to rustproof and spray-in bedliners installed in the 3 new pickups purchased by the County.

In other actions, the board approved the use of the Courthouse and grounds by the Taylorville Main Street for several events and the Taylorville Arts Council for their second annual fund raiser.

The following arrests and citations were issued by the Pana Police Department.

Brian K. Thompson of Pana reported a metal shelf and a rear differential from a 1987 Mustang had been stolen from the backyard at the 509 North Poplar residence of Chad A. Taylor.

Taylor noticed the items missing and notified Thompson. The items were located at Welburn Salvage and Taylor learned that Starla D. Hostetler of Pana and Hula R. Merryfield of Pana allegedly brought in the metal shelf for scrap on 2-15-12.

The rear differential was brought in by an unidentified subject. Both Hostetler and Merryfield were arrested for theft and given a notice to appear.

 The unidentified subject is still under investigation.

After a complaint of battery at 202 South Poplar Apt. 308 Pana, Sean M. Rush and Harry A. Burton of Pana were both charged with battery.

Both Rush and Burton were given a notice to appear and released.

After an incident at Pana High School a 16 year old male juvenile was issued a city ordinance citation for public fighting.

The juvenile was released to his mother.

 This is National 4H week.  The local 4h has plenty of activities lined up, according to Christian County 4H Coordinator Jodi Heberling:

[audio:4hweekheberling0221121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the extension at 287-7246 if you have questions.

In case you didn’t know it, a Barber College is now open in Taylorville.  Deb Turvey of the Barber College says students learn every aspect of barbering:

[audio:barbercollegeturvey022112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Turvey says barbers still offer shaves with straight razors, but some aspects of that service have evolved:

[audio:barbercollegeturvey20221121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The national Barber college is located just east of the Taylorville Square on Maincross Street.  Turvey says tuition is $5,000.

Legislation is pending in Illinois which would make it legal for citizens to record encounters with police.  Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says most police agencies wouldn’t mind such a change if it was a two-way street:

[audio:sheriffkonrecording0221122.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Recording a police officer without consent is currently a felony, carrying a possible sentence of 15 years in prison.

A mechanical problem forced an emergency landing at the Southern Illinois Airport earlier today. 

 David NewMeyer, Department Chair Aviation Management and Flight at SIU Carbondale, says it happened during a routine training flight.

[audio:rddflight1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

NewMeyer says the plane made a safe landing in a grassy area next to the runway.  The plane has a few knicks, dings, and scratches but both the student and professor who were on board walked away unharmed. 

To help ensure an adequate blood supply for our region, the Central Illinois Community blood center is offering several opportunities to donate blood in Christian County.

On Monday, February 27^th  At Edinburg High School, 100 East Martin Street from 12:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Also on Wednesday, February 29^th  At First United Methodist Church in Pana, 619 Kitchell Street from 1 PM to 7 PM.

For your convenience, please call (toll free) 1-866-GIVE-BLD, ext 158 to sign up or schedule an appointment online at www.cicbc.org  Walk-ins are also welcome and truly appreciated. 

A group of ministers from Pana are getting together to tackle the homeless issue in their town.

The Pana Ministerial Association is looking at possible locations to build a homeless transitional center that would accommodate the homeless population in Pana and surrounding areas.

The organization is also searching for grants to help with funding. 

According to reports, there were more than 14-thousand homeless in Illinois in 2009.

(file photo)

The Taylorville City Council transacted a lot of business in their 35-minute meeting Tuesday night at City Hall.

The meeting began with a moment of silence for the late Fred Ronnow, president and C-E-O of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, who passed away last Friday. 

Mayor Greg Brotherton announced that the city of Taylorville is 14^th in voting on the Reader’s Digest web site for Favorite Towns in America.  Brotherton added the top 18 towns will receive various cash awards, and he’s hoping that Taylorville will be among the communities winning a grant.  Voting ends March First.

The Taylorville Council Tuesday night passed 2 drainage agreement resolutions with various property owners in town; they also annexed 3 pieces of property into the city at 100 Airlawn Street, 800 South Central and 2100 South Spresser; and they moved the date of the Council’s Lake and Airport Committee and Water and Environmental Committee meetings, from March 8^th to March 7^th.

Taylorville aldermen Tuesday night voted to spend some 18-hundred dollars for chlorinator maintenance; they accepted an 18-hundred dollar quote for the annual well maintenance test on all 4 wells; approved dates for a fly-in at Taylorville airport with a discount to be given on fuel; and OK’d a free fishing clinic hosted by the Taylorville Park District on Lake Taylorville June 19^th.  The Council also OK’d upgrading electrical service at 8 camp sites on Lake Taylorville at a cost of just under 5-thousand dollars, spent some 86-hundred dollars on replacing 12 pads in the overnight camping area, and OK’d seeking bids for cabin cleaning for 2012.  The council also approved the installation of 4 “no stopping on pavement” signs on Broaddus road, due to people stopping on the road to view the petting zoo instead of pulling into the zoo’s parking lot.

The City of Taylorville will be installing 19-thousand watts worth of solar panels to generate electricity at the Municipal Airport in the near future. The Council approved the 95-thousand dollar project at their meeting Tuesday night. Part of the cost will be paid for by grants, but the city’s share is some 38-thousand dollars. Aldermen Shawn Burtle and Rob Heberling voted against the project, saying the city’s share could be used for more pressing project. Burtle spoke with Regional Radio News after the meeting, echoing his earlier comments during the Council session.

[audio:BurtleaudioFeb2122.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Mayor Greg Brotherton told the Council that the solar panels will have a reasonable payback.

How the city of Taylorville handles annexation, was a topic of discussion at Tuesday night’s Taylorville City Council meeting. After a recommendation from the council’s Water and Environmental committee, alderman Ernie Dorchinez made a motion to waive the 100-dollar annexation fee, and the approximately 200-dollar plat fee, for homeowners who agree to annex into the city within 60 days of written notice, and who don’t fight the city’s effort to annex them. Dorchinez told Regional Radio News after the meeting, that there are residents taking advantage of city services, who need to be annexed into the City of Taylorville.

[audio:Dorchinezcut1Feb2112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dorchinez added that after his committee reviewed what should be done, a motion was brought to the full Council Tuesday night eliminating the annexation and plat fees for those who agree to annex.

[audio:Dorchinezcut2Feb2112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

His motion passed unanimously at the Taylorville Council meeting Tuesday night.

You may eventually be able to see and hear what's happening in Madison County courtrooms without actually being there. Chief Judge Ann Callis with the 3rd Judicial Circuit Court says cameras in the courts will likely happen on a permanent basis and she wants to get a head start on establishing procedures.

[audio:camerasincourt022012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Callis has applied to the Illinois Supreme Court to participate in the new pilot program which allows cameras in the courtroom.  As of now, the request only covers the Madison County Criminal Justice Center, where major felony cases are heard. She could eventually apply to add the main courthouse as well as the Bond County Courthouse.

Lawmakers are toying with the idea of charging an additional five dollar entry fee to those who go to strip clubs.  Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon says the fee will be added onto what club goers already pay at the door.

[audio:stripclubtax022012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

79 year old Lois V. Fry, of Stonington, was going north on twp. rd. 2100 east and a deer came into the roadway from the west and ran into the rear drivers side door of her 2008 Toyota Camry, causing damage to the vehicle. No injuries were reported.

The Shelby County Health Department will be sponsoring a Well-Child Clinic Thursday afternoon, March 8^th, for children birth through five years of age. Children who have no physician, or are having difficulty finding a physician to accept the medical card are given priority.

Dr. Virginia Dauz will be giving physical examinations. Also developmental screening and immunizations are offered.

Contact the Health Department at 774-9555 to schedule your child for an appointment. No walk in will be accepted. Please bring the child’s immunization record and public aid card. A sliding fee scale is available for clients without a medical card. A parent or guardian will need to be present to sign the consent for immunizations.

The Shelbyville City Council will have a meeting tomorrow (Tues.) evening, and one of the topics of discussion will be the Shelbyville Works Program.  Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says the public is invited:

  [audio:svlmeeting022012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, that meeting is Tuesday night at 6:00.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp’s monthly newsletter for February concerns kids and the dangers of drugs and alcohol.  The Sheriff says there are signs parents can watch for:

National FFA Week is upon us, and chapters across central Illinois are hosting a variety of unique events in order to celebrate.  Jared White has more...

[audio:22012FFAWeekWRAP.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Find out more about the impact of local FFA chapters all this week on our morning and noon Farm Shows with Jared White at 6:40am and 12:20pm on Newstalk 97.3 FM WTIM.

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

35 year-old Jason L. Cripe, of Decatur was arrested on an original arrest warrant for theft in six different counties. 

26 year-old David B. Shoot  of Mattoon was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Cattlemen and women from across Illinois and the Midwest are converging on Springfield this week. 

The president and C-E-O of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, has died after a courageous fight with lung cancer. 71-year-old Fred Ronnow passed away Friday night at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

Ronnow came to Taylorville in the mid 1990's, selling advertising in a real estate publication. He then joined the former Christian County Journal shopper, and later became the president and C-E-O of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, a position which he held for some 10 years.

Ronnow recently was presented with an award for 26 years of soberity from an organization he was a long-time member of, Alcoholics Anonymous. He was also a member and publicity co-chair of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club, and a member of the Ansar Shrine of Springfield.

Ronnow is survived by one daughter and one grandchild. Funeral services are Tuesday in Taylorville.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club has announced that out of respect to the family, Tuesday's regularly scheduled Kiwanis meeting has been cancelled.

To end the season, as heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to Central A&M with a score of 52-45.

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

In the early morning hours of Tuesday February 7, 2012, 911 received a call in regards to shots being fired outside in the 600 block ofNorthwestern Avenuein Taylorville.  Responding officers learned that a male subject had fired several shots outside of the residence at another subject and then left the scene heading West.  Officers recovered shell casings at the scene.  No injuries were reported from the incident.

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.

A Pana man had a bad couple of days this week. According to police reports, 27-year-old Zacary C. Dionne was issued a ticket Tuesday for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident after a traffic mishap in an alley off of S. Locust Street. The next day, Dionne called Pana Police to report his pick-up truck stolen. The theft apparently occurred between 10pm Tuesday night and 5am on Wednesday morning. There was some good news: police located the 2001 GMC truck later that day.

The Illinois State Police announced the results of a Roadside Safety Check held during the late evening hours of Saturday, February 11, and early morning hours of Sunday, February 12.  The detail was conducted at Jefferson Street at Bruns Lane in Springfield, Illinois, by ISP District 9 officers.

Alcohol is involved in over 40 percent of fatal crashes in Illinois.  RSCs are designed to remove alcohol-impaired drivers, however, when other violations are observed such as driving with a suspended or revoked license, operating a vehicle without a valid registration or insurance, or safety belt violations, enforcement action may be taken.  The following citations were issued at the safety check:  1 DUI, 6 other alcohol or drug arrests, 7 registration offenses and 3 driver’s license offenses.

The project was funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety.                                                    

There's talk that some homeowners will have to pay more in property taxes to help cover the cost of teacher pensions.  Jacksonville District 117 Superintendent Les Huedle [[Huddle]] says he doesn't want to go that route.

The Livingston County Sheriff's department is re-opening a 29-year-old cold case.  Robert and Marcia Edwards were found shot in the head in their rural Pontiac home in 1983.  Sheriff Marty Meredith hopes updated technology can help them catch the couple's adopted son, who was accused of the murders. 

[audio:coldcase021712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Joe Edwards hasn't been seen since the murders but Meredith says they've gotten a DNA sample from one of his immediate family members.  They hope the DNA helps them find a match.  Edwards would be 47-years-old.  The case was featured on the TV show "America's Most Wanted" three times between 1988 and 1998.  Anyone with information on the case should call the sheriff's department at 815-844-2774.

Nursing home residents don’t always have a voice when it comes to getting proper care, but AARP Illinois is looking to change that.  David Vinkler says they’re supporting a bill designed to shore up the state’s Ombudsman program. 

[audio:ombudsman021712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Vinkler says some of the issues will have solutions that can be resolved between the Ombudsmen and the nursing home staff while others will need to be reported to the state’s Department of Public Health.  Vinkler says nursing homes are not always required to report deaths but this bill would require they report all deaths immediately.  

The FCC is blocking LightSquared and their planned development of a nationwide wireless network citing concerns it can’t be fixed to coexist with GPS systems. American Soybean Association President Steve Wellman says they’re supporting the move because the interference would have been very costly for farmers.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp issues an informational newsletter every month.  This month the Sheriff is speaking out about ways to fight drug and alcohol abuse among kids:

  [audio:sheriffkdrugdanger021712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Sheriff says parents should be aware of the various signs of drug abuse, and should make sure kids don’t have access to alcohol and prescription drugs in the home.

Crime Stoppers has proven to be an important ingredient in crime-fighting.  Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says a fundraiser to help the organization in Shelby County is planned:

The Pana Police Department has requested the public's help in finding a missing Pana girl.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has posted the following on their web site:

SHAYLEE SHY-MARIE HAYES

Case Type: Endangered Runaway
DOB: Apr 4, 1998 Sex: Female
Missing Date: Feb 13, 2012 Race: White
Age Now: 13 Height: 5'4" (163 cm)
Missing City: PANA Weight: 200 lbs (91 kg)
Missing State : IL Hair Color: Brown
Missing Country: United States Eye Color: Blue
Case Number: NCMC1189095
Circumstances: Shaylee was last seen on February 13, 2012.

Anyone with information on Shaylee's whereabouts, is asked to call the Pana Police Department at 562-2141.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville lost to Tolono Unity with a score of 60 to 41.

As heard on WTIM the Taylorville Lady Tornadoes lost to Glenwood with a score of 52 to 50 effectively ending the season.

65 year old Steven Shears, of Taylorville, was traveling north on Co. Hwy. #22 north of Co. Hwy. #2 when he lost control of his vehicle on the snow and ice covered roadway.  Shears slid into the west ditch and struck trees. His driver side and rear of vehicle were damaged. 

Many rural communities in Illinois are still without high speed Internet but Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon is looking to get them connected.  Simon says the online access could lead to tremendous opportunities in education.

[audio:ruralbband1021612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Simon is urging all rural residents to take the survey which seeks to gain information on how farmers, schools, and business use high speed Internet now.  The results will be used to develop broadband plans in various industry sectors to create jobs and build awareness.  Simon says rural communities have the most to gain from high-speed Internet.  The online survey can be accessed at BroadbandIllinois.org.

[audio:ruralbband2021612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Simon says the online access could help doctors communicate on patient care.

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Simon says one of the biggest goals is to determine how businesses can expand their online presence.

A new study has proven something most Chicagoans say they already know: the area is the most corrupt in the nation. 

[audio:nosurprise1021612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

University of Illinois at Chicago professor Dick Simpson says those convictions are almost 600 more than second place on the list: the area around Los Angeles with 12-hundred-75 public corruption convictions.  Third was Manhattan, the Bronx and northern counties near New York City at just over 12-hundred.  Washington DC and the area near Miami were fourth and fifth.  The study also found Illinois was only the third most corrupt state: behind Washington, DC and Louisiana.  But Simpson says that's because DC and Louisiana have smaller populations.  The study found most of the corruption was inside Chicago City Hall and Illinois' state capitol of Springfield.

[audio:nosurprise2021612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

University of Illinois at Chicago professor Dick Simpson says the problems with corruption extend to the entire state.

[audio:nosurprise3021612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Simpson says most of the corruption can be found in two places.

[audio:nosurprise4021612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Simpson says there's no magic bullet on corruption, but voters are a key part.

The state's campaign contribution limits are being challenged in court.  Governor Quinn just signed contributions into law last year and says he's not excited about any possible changes to the law.

[audio:quinncampaignmoney021612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

People in Illinois can give no more than ten-thousand dollars to a PAC while corporations and businesses cap out at 20-grand.  A group of pro-choice lobbyists who make up the Personal PAC filed suit against the limits, claiming it violates their First Amendment Rights.  Personal PAC supported Quinn when he was elected in 2010.

It's common to see the logos of corporate sponsors splashed on NFL and college football fields, but now high school teams in Illinois can take advantage of that revenue stream.  Craig Anderson with the Illinois High School Association says they're already allowed to put the logos in end zones. 

[audio:ihsalogo021612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Anderson says the new rule comes from National Federation of State High School Associations.

A new central Illinois based group is hoping to help bring continuing education to the farm.  Jared White has more...

Another sign that spring is just around the corner:  little League Baseball sign-ups.  Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says the deadline is coming up:

Everyone knows that calcium-filled milk is good for our bones.  But Joyce Fikri of the St. Louis Dairy Council tells Regional Radio listeners that it’s also good for your teeth:

The Christian County Triad organization is teamed up with the local Fire Department for a program aimed at keeping seniors safe.  Richard Peters of Triad says it’s called the “Remember When Program”:

The Christian County Farm Bureau has a fundraiser coming up for its foundation.  Melissa Herwig of the Farm Bureau explains:

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

Reid. T. Patrick, 23, of Rochester was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for consumption of liquor. 

Andrew R. Payton, 19, of Macon was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. 

David K. Matthews, 25, of Nokomis was arrested for obstructing justice.

Regina L. Burks, 37, of Vernon, IL was arrested on a original arrest warrant for forgery. 

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is warning  citizens about the growing problem involving Financial Exploitation Scams especially as we go into tax season.

Recently, a citizen told the Sheriff’s Office about an email they had received from someone purporting to be an agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The email was filled with international intrigue, shady diplomats and of course “large” sums of money. It went on to tell them that if they did not contact them immediately they would be charged with tax evasion. It even had an official address and was signed by a “Regional Deputy Director.” Of course, none of it is true

In nearly every instance, written communication with a government agency will be in the form of a letter sent through the United States Postal Service and will include your name.  There are often many tell-tale signs such as all capital letters, spelling errors and often a return address that goes back to a less than official email address. In this case, the return email address extension (.VN) was for a location in Vietnam. It is also not uncommon to have other foreign return email addresses such as Nigeria (.NG) or Russia (.RU), or ones from free providers such as Yahoo, Hotmail or Gmail. Official government emails have government email addresses.

If you are unsure, please contact this office or your local law enforcement agency.

A Tower Hill man is the victim of an apparent ID theft. 32-year-old Jeremy L. Hunter reported that someone used his identity to obtain credit cards over the last 15 months. Information about the violator will be forwarded to the proper authorities.

 CME Group unveiled the first, targeted step toward rebuilding confidence in futures markets following the failure of MF Global.

CME Group announced that it would make a 100-million dollar Family Farmer and Rancher Protection Fund available to provide an additional layer of protection to farmers and ranchers who lose money due to any future failure of a clearing member firm. 

CME Group Chief Operating Officer Bryan Durkin says they are creating this fund to make sure the nation’s food producers never again find themselves in the position they did in the weeks following the MF Global situation.

 [audio:cmefund1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

CME Group is working with several industry groups to provide recommendations that will be brought forward in the next several months to address further concerns. However - Durkin says this fund is something CME Group can do today to make sure additional protection is quickly in place for the agricultural community.

 [audio:cmefund2.mp3]comment here[/audio] 

Durkin says the company plans to have more application details for the fund available before March 1st when the fund is expected to officially be in place. Also - industry recommendations for stronger protections of customer funds held at clearing firms are expected to be put forward this spring. For more MF Global updates - visit CME Group’s website at www dot cmegroup dot com (www.cmegroup.com).

If you’re getting your taxes ready, you should know that there are certain things that may trigger an audit by the IRS.  Lori Henry of H and R Block explains: 

 [audio:lorionaudits021512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lori and her husband Steve Henry own H and H Block stores in Taylorville, Pana, Nokomis and Shelbyville.  Taxes are due April 15.

One of the trendiest ways to get in shape these days is Zumba.  Pana Community Hospital Health and Wellness Coordinator Nancy Alexander says they have seen a lot of interest:

The warmer weather will be here before you know it, and Taylorville Main Street has activities planned for late next month.  Steve Craggs of Main Street says it takes a lot of preparation:

  [audio:craggseasterevents012012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Steve Craggs is the President of Taylorville Main Street.

Big Brothers Big Sisters has its biggest Christian County Fundraisers coming up.  According to Vanessa Wiseman of BBBS, the event is coming up in less than 2 weeks:

  [audio:wisemanbowlkids021512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Wiseman says they have expanded the event this year:

  [audio:wisemanbowlkids2021512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again that is coming up February 24^th and 25^th at the Olde Bowl in Taylorville.

Pana Police with help from the Central Illinois Enforcement Group conducted a search of a residence at 207 S. Clark Friday. According to reports, information was forwarded to the States Attorney’s Office for consideration of charges against 21-year-old Amber N. Spracklin of Pana of Manufacture and delivery and possession of cannabis.

Sunday evening just before 9:00, Taylorville police were dispatched to an apartment at 502 N. Maple on reports of a domestic dispute. The male resident told cops he’d been struck several times by his girlfriend. A witness on the scene reportedly corroborated that story. 27-year-old Morgan R. Slough was arrested on charges of disorderly conduct and domestic battery. She was taken to the Christian County Jail.

Good police work ended in the arrest of Taylorville teenager. According to reports, a Taylorville officer saw a vehicle with 18-year-old Samantha Jo Woods driving. The officer reportedly knew Woods was wanted on a retail theft warrant in Sangamon County. Woods was pulled over at the intersection of Market and Main. She was arrested and held in the Christian County Jail in lieu of bond.

An Assumption man is accused of theft. According to police reports, 20-year-old Justin M. Caudle is accused of taking a purse containing credit cards, cash, gift cards, and eyeglasses. The info was apparently forwarded to the State’s Attorney’s office with a request that charges be filed against Caudle.

A Pana man complained to police of vandalism to his car. Brylan A. Speer reported on Sunday that someone had smashed the rear and passenger side windows of his 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. The case is under investigation.  

A Taylorville driver apparently took a corner to wide and ended up colliding with another vehicle. According to police reports, 58-year-old Dixie Lou White was taking a turn at the intersection of Webster and Northern Streets Monday, when she reportedly went a little wide. Her van struck a car driven by 57-year-old Vicki L. Hristov, who was sitting at the intersection. No injured were ported.  White reportedly told police she was unfamiliar with the van she was driving.

Fred Ronnow, the President and CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce  is sending out  a big thank you for the “Friends of Fred Fundraiser”. Fred and his daughter  Rebecca  both say the generosity of all involved was overwhelming and is appreciated greatly. Fred thanks everyone: from the workers, to those who donated supplies, to those who made monetary donations and of course to all who purchased chili.  Fred remains at Taylorville Hospital. .  He is working hard every day to improve with Occupational and Physical Therapy.  He is still not taking visitors.  He does enjoy cards.

Regional Radio has learned that a local business will be moving soon.  Family Dollar, located in the Grand Plaza Shopping Center on Bidwell Street, will move to the Former Aldi’s location on Webster Street.  An employee of Family Dollar tells Regional radio News that the move was originally intended to take place at the end of March, but ongoing renovations to the new location have postponed the move, perhaps until sometime in May.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Girls Basketball team beat Mt. Zion with a final score of 40-38

The month of February is half over, and the Extension Office’s 4H Coordinator, Jodi Heberling, says they have several events coming up in March, including a rescheduled training session:

[audio:heberlingonmarchevents021412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 Contact the Extension Office at 287-7246 if you’d like to talk to Jodi Heberling.

Monday was International World Radio Day, a day to appreciate the benefits of the medium.  Local Senior citizen’s advocate Mac McGuire, says radio is unique:

 [audio:macradio021312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 McGuire says he’s a fan of local radio:

[audio:macradio2021412.mp3]comment here[/audio] 

International World Radio Day is sponsored by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

In another month or two, the weather will be warming up enough for outdoor activities, including golf.  Jeff Boldig,  of B and D Associates says the new managers at the Lakeshore Golf Course intend to be active in local matters:

 [audio:boldiglakeshore121211.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 Boldig says the golf course will be ready to go as soon as the weather allows.

Taylorville, Illinois As a community bank, Peoples Bank & Trust recognizes the value of volunteerism in our communities.  To recognize, commend and promote the volunteerism, Peoples Bank & Trust has established a program to recognize an outstanding community member for their volunteer efforts of improvement to our community.

Becca Wiggins has been chosen as the Peoples Bank & Trust Volunteer of the Quarter for her efforts as a "Soldier's Angel".  When she was only in the second grade, she began adopting soldiers stationed over seas by sending them care packages.  She decided that she would like to do something more than the care packages. Project Valor, another division of the Soldier's Angels, provides veterans that have lost heir limbs with voice activated computers.  Becca now has a new mission, raising funds for those computers. She has recruited others such as her 4-H club, The Clover Club, to join in those efforts. She has also taken her cause on the road, actively making presentations to businesses and organizations in an effort to raise the money for these computers  Each voice activated computer costs approximately $600.00.  Becca has raised enough money to purchase five voice activated laptops.

Becca is 10 years old and is in the 5th grade at Memorial School. 

In honor of her service, Peoples Bank & Trust is very proud to award Becca with a  donation to Project Valor and Becca's name will be placed on a plaque to be displayed at the bank.

Peoples Bank & Trust is an independent Community Bank with six offices located in Pana, Taylorville, Altamont, Charleston, Tower Hill and Springfield.  Peoples is a full service bank offering outstanding customer service to consumers, small business, and farmers in Central Illinois.  People First Bancshares, Inc., with corporate offices in Pana, Illinois, is the holding company for Peoples Bank & Trust.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to St. Teresa with a score of 62-50.

Dr. Greg Fuerstenau, in his report to the Taylorville Community School Board, gave some sobering news as far as the economic outlook for State Funding is concerned. Even though the State has paid the remainder of the 2011 obligations, six months after the end of the fiscal year, $5.15 billion of 2012 revenues were used to pay off those bills. Also the devaluation of home prices in the northern school districts will cause a shortage of local property tax revenues, forcing the northern districts to reach into the available state aid dollars, therefore lessening the amount of available funds for the other districts. Another factor to consider, according to Fuerstenau, is the upcoming decision on pension reform. Dr. Fuerstenau felt that given the overall picture, the next couple of years won’t show much improvement in state funding.

The Superintendent informed the board of several exciting recent events. The Taylorville High School yearbook, The Drift, was awarded best overall yearbook in the State of Illinois for schools with enrollment of 500 to 1200. Also, the Tornado Wrestling squad won it’s first ever Regional title and sent 12 wrestlers, the most ever, on to the Sectionals. The eight grade Terriors Boys basketball team made it to the Elite Eight in the state tournament.

In other news, the Board accepted the resignation of Mckinzie Dempsey from her position as Jr. High Pom Pons coach. Ms. Dempsey had coached the squad for 12 years. Robert Brown and Suzanne Beckley were hired as 7^th grade and 8^th grade girls track coaches, respectively. Prior to adjourning, the Board heard a report from Dr. Fuerstenau on the upcoming renovations to the High School Science Wing, the High School Chimney and the Junior and High School exhaust systems. Bids will be requested once all the preliminary logistics are finished. The meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.

 State Representative Dwight Kay is preparing bills aimed at changing the way business is done at the Statehouse.   The Glen Carbon Republican has already filed numerous pieces of legislation ranging from the definition of "catastrophic injury" in the work place to calling for an audit of claims filed by employees at the Menard Correctional Center.

[audio:dwightkaytotherescue0213121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Kay has also filed legislation addressing campaign donations to judges, which comes on the heels of the Barbara Crowder controversy.  She received 30-thousand dollars in donations from asbestos lawyers after she set the asbestos docket. She later returned the money.

Bad brakes may be to blame for an accident on the 800 block of Springfield Road in Taylorville last Thursday. According to police reports, 51-year-old Mary K. Stephens of Taylorville was stopped in traffic. 49-year-old Susan R. Baird of Taylorville told cops she saw the vehicle stopped in front of her but heard a grinding noise when she applied the brakes. She apparently couldn’t stop in time. Both vehicles were damaged, but no injuries were reported. 

62 year old William B. Yates, of Dutton, AL, was traveling northbound on 2420 E. Rd. attempting to make a right hand turn at 400 N. Rd.  Yater trailer left the right side of the roadway and entered the ditch.  He then overturned coming to rest.  No injuries were reported. 

There are signs that the cattle industry is beginning a transition from beef cow herd liquidation to expansion.

You’re invited to the 9^th annual Spores N’ More Mushroom Festival, Friday, April 20 and Saturday, April 21, 2012.  All activities are open to the public. 

It kicks off Friday, April 20, 2012 with adinner at 5:30 p.m. at the American Legion in Windsor, IL.  Dinner will include homemade mushroom soup, spaghetti, plenty of homemade desserts, tea and lemonade. Donations are welcome. Marge Evans from Decatur, IL and author of “The Joys of Hunting & Preparing Morel Mushrooms” will be giving a presentation on morel mushrooms at 6:30 p.m. at the Windsor American Legion on Friday, April 20, 2012.

The Lake Shelbyville Area Morel Championship Hunt will be conducted on Saturday, April 21, 2012.  Registration fee is $20 thru April 14, 2012 or $25 after April 15, 2012.  You can register at www.LakeShelbyville.com, in person at the Shelby County Tourism Office in Shelbyville, IL or on the day of the event

Other events that will be going on around Lake Shelbyville during the Spores N’ More Mushroom Festival can be found at www.LakeShelbyville.com.

The “Carrier Watch Program” is part of Christian County Triad.  Richard Peters of Triad says the program is designed to keep tabs on people through their Postal Carrier:

  [audio:triad021312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If mail is left in the mailbox for too long, the Post Office will notify authorities so they can check on the resident.  Call the Christian County Sr. Citizens Center at 824-4263 for info about Triad.

If you’re looking for a great place to take your significant other for Valentine’s Day, Chris’s Steakhouse in Taylorville is taking reservations.  Owner Chris Orange says his staff is top-notch:

  [audio:Steakforvalentinesday021312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Chris’s Steakhouse is open for Valentine’s Day, and reservations are recommended.  Their hours of operation are 4p-9p and can be reached at 824-4480.  The restaurant is located at 923 W. Spresser in Taylorville.

31 year-old Johnny L. Carter of Decatur, was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute. 

20 year-old Sarah M. Smysor  of Springfield was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for operating an uninsured vehicle. 

Illinois State Police, District 18 officers made a number of DUI arrests during January.  Those arrested in Montgomery County include:  51 year old Keith A. Langreder of Collinsville, 35 year-old Matthew J. McKee of  Hudson, 34 year-old Robert L. Tackaberry of Litchfield IL, 37 year-old Timothy A. Corso of Taylorville,  28 year-old Joshua D. Lovsey of  Glen Carbon and 39 year-old  Joshua T. Turner of Palmyra.

District 18 also includes Calhoun, Greene, Jersey, and Macoupin Counties.

Amanda Cole was recently named County Extension Director for District 18, which comprises 4 counties.  Cole says most but not all the programs are similar in all four counties:

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Cole says one program addresses the need to keep it local:

  [audio:coleext2021312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the local Extension Office at 287-7246.

Regional Radio News has learned that a prominent Shelbyville attorney has been killed in a pedestrian accident in Florida.

62-year-old Chris Eberspacher died Friday afternoon from injuries sustained on a pedestrian crosswalk in Fort Myers, Florida.

Eberspacher earned his law degree from the University of Illinois in 1974.  He was Shelby County State’s Attorney from 1976 to 1980, then entered private law practice.  He was appointed a judge on the 4^th Judicial Circuit Court in 1985 and was elected to that position in 1986.  He returned to private practice in 1992.

Eberspacher served on a host of charitable boards, and served on the board of First Federal Savings and Loan in Shelbyville.

Arrangements are being handled by the Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Shelbyville.

As heard on WTIM the Taylorville boys lost to Jerseyville with a score of 52 to 45.

A recent Chicago Tribune poll puts Governor Quinn's approval rating at 30-percent but Quinn says the number don't mean much.

Sixty three new cadets are joining the ranks anmong the Illinois State Police. Governor Quinn calls them the best of the best because they've made a commitment to serve.

 Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is pushing the state to create a registry of guns.

[audio:emmanuelwantsyourgun1021412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Corn producers in Illinois have a chance to weigh in on a proposed increase to the state's corn checkoff amount.  Jared White has more...

A children's group wants parents to be very careful around the house, following a string of deaths involving TV's falling on toddlers.

[audio:tvdeaths021012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Jessica Choi with Safe Kids Chicago says parents also need to be sure the furniture the TV is on is stable and secure.  Choi also says as many things as possible need to be babyproofed to keep children safe as well.  Four toddlers have been killed and another seriously injured by falling TVs in Chicago over the last few months.  More information on child safety can be found at www.safekids.org.

Texting and biking could soon land you a minor traffic ticket.  Representative Kelly Cassidy says there's a safety risk when people are distracted whether their driving a car or riding a bike.

[audio:biketext021012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Cassidy has proposed a law that will make it illegal to text while riding a bike, even if you're pulled over to the side of the road or bike lane.  The law would mirror provisions that ban texting while driving and would carry similar penalties.  Bikers would still be allowed to use Bluetooth and hands-free devices to talk and bike.  The proposal has passed in committee and is headed to the House for a full vote.

Victims of violent crimes say their rights aren't being enforced and they're teaming with lawmakers to get Constitutional backing.  State Representative Lou Lang says Marsy's Law of Illinois will help prevent a situation similar to that of a mom of a California college student who was stalked and killed by her ex-boyfriend.  

[audio:victimsrights1021012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Illinois House passed a proposal which will protect victims and their families from being harassed or intimidated.  The proposal also gives victims and families the right to access any sentencing and parole reports of their offender.  If the Senate approves the proposal, it will be placed on the November election ballot.  That means voters will have the final voice on solidifying victim's rights. 

[audio:victimsrights2021012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Representative Chapin Rose says it's always important to keep victim safety in mind.

Illinois is joining other states in a push to legalize same-sex marriage.  State Representative Greg Harris is one of three openly gay members of the legislature.  He says legalizing gay marriage is the right thing to do.

Like many people in politics, Representative Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville holds town meetings from time to time.  Rosenthal says constituents have a lot on their minds these days:

 [audio:rosenthaltownmeetings021012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Representative Rosenthal also says people are anxious about a couple of incomplete highway expansions:

 [audio:rosenthalrt29021012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Efforts to expand Route 29 between Taylorville and Springfield began more than 20 years ago.

The Workforce Career Center at Lincoln Land Community College is designed to help students acquire marketable skills.  Judy Jozaitus of Lincoln Land says Students can train in a variety of job skills:

The City of Taylorville continues to compete for money and prestige in the Reader’s Digest “We Hear You, America” contest.  Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says if the city ultimately wins money, the cash will be put to good use:

 [audio:contestmoneysolarpanels021012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The winner in the magazine contest is decided by the number of votes cast.  If you’d like to help Taylorville, go to readersdigest.com/America.  There is no charge and you can vote as many times as you’d like.

Agriculture has responded positively to news last week from the Department of Labor that it will re-propose the parental exemption in the child labor rule. But not so fast - says Bill Field - Professor of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Purdue.

Pana Community Hospital has announced that  James Moon of Pana has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer.  James has held the position of Director of Finance at Pana Community Hospital since July of 2010. 

James has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration Degree from Eastern Illinois University.  He is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Healthcare Financial Management Association. 

Prior to joining Pana Community Hospital, James worked for over 14 years for the public accounting firm, West & Company. 

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

A theft at the Pana Wal-Mart led to an arrest. According to reports, the store summoned police to tell them of the theft of a 31” High Definition TV. After an investigation 29-year-old Alter E. Ivy was arrested by Taylorville police. Ivy was taken to the Christian County Jail and held without bond.

20 year-old Cory A. Wafford of Pana was arrested on an original arrest warrant for phone harassment. 

23 year-old Joshua K. Brooks of Rifle, Colorado was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for two counts of criminal trespassing. 

51 year-old Orville R. Zumwalt of Roodhouse, IL was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute.  

Citations:

An accident in Pana led to a citation for a Pana teen. 18-year-old Brittany Fore apparently lost control of her vehicle Wednesday while traveling East on Main St. Her vehicle slammed into the Bob Ridings building. Fore was issued a citation for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. No injuries were reported.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Tornadoes Basketball team fell to the Rochester Rockets with a final score of 55-31.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to Warresnburg-Latham with a score of 64-61.

Sixty three new cadets are joining the ranks among the Illinois State Police.  Governor Quinn calls them the best of the best because they've made a commitment to serve.

Now might be a good time for lawmakers to extend sales taxes on services such as haircuts and lawn services.  Charles Leonard, with the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, says 50-percent of people polled favored the idea last year.

[audio:salestax020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Only 28-percent favored the expansion in 2008.  The numbers are based on a survey conducted last fall.  Leonard says almost 70-percent of the people also favored a one-dollar per pack increase on cigarette taxes.

More Illinoisans are prepared to take cover in the event an earthquake hits the state.  Illinois Emergency Management Association Director Jonathon Monken says they participated in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill. 

[audio:monkenearthquake1020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Monken says Illinois is not exempt from getting hit by earthquakes, especially considering there are two seismic zones that reach into the state.  In fact a Chicago suburb felt the tremors of a quake that hit Wisconsin on January 30th. 

[audio:monkenearthquake2020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Illinois Emergency Management Association Director Jonathon Monken says the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill taught them valuable information.

Governor Quinn is chiming in on the controversial Clint Eastwood Super Bowl Ad.  He says bouncing back from a broken economy rings true in Illinois.

[audio:quinneastwood020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Clint Eastwood's Ad is a call to action, so to speak, calling on Americans to band together and overcome differences.  He cites the revival of Detroit's auto industry after the economic downturn.  The Ad was sponsored by Chrysler.  Chrysler officials just announced 16-hundred new jobs in Belvidere.

Naperville police have released the 911 calls of a second grade teacher's stabbing death inside a bar.

[audio:teacherstabbed020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Prosecutors have charged Daniel Olaska with murder for the death of Shaun Wild.  They believe Wild was trying to break up a fight when he was killed.  Olaska is also facing attempted murder charges for allegedly stabbing two others, who survived.

Governor Quinn says Medicaid reform is essential this year and it's not going to be an easy task.

The state will pay more than five-billion dollars into the pension system this year but Governor Quinn is trying to ease the state's burden. 

[audio:quinnpensionreform1020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Quinn says the whole concept of pension reform is to make sure everyone is accountable for retirement benefits.  The governor says reform is essential this year but any changes will be responsible, fair and constitutional. 

[audio:quinnpensionreform2020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Governor Quinn wants school districts and teachers to pitch in to cover pension costs but that could mean increased property taxes.  Quinn says it wouldn't be fair for districts to pass the cost on to taxpayers.

A plan to give citizens the right to record on-duty police officers without their consent is getting mixed reviews in Springfield.  Representative Michael Zalewski voted “No” for the proposal but says current cases should be put on hold until something can be worked out. 

A proposal to ban teenagers from using tanning beds is striking controversy in Springfield.  Don Hirsch doesn't like the idea and says his teenage sons should be able to use tanning beds with his approval.

[audio:tan1020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The proposal would allow teenagers to get spray-on tans but would ban them from using tanning beds, even with parental consent.  Representative Robyn Gables says  it's the state's job to protect the health of children.  Lawmakers will vote on the proposal in committee in the next few weeks.

[audio:tan2020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Marty Gallagher, with the Illinois Tanning Association, says that could do more harm than good.

[audio:tan3020912.mp3]comment here[/audio] 

Advocates say the measure will help reduce the onset of cancer but Representative Mary Flowers says just about anything can cause cancer.

 [audio:tan4020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Representative Robyn Gable says the UV Rays in tanning beds increases the risks of cancer.

A car accident Mond night just after 8:00 apparently caused two people injuries. According to reports, a car drive by 17-year-old Tabitha L. Miloncus collided with a vehicle driven by 19-year-old Ryan D. Calloway of Morrisonville at the intersection of Cheney and Vandeveer in Taylorville. Police say they believe Miloncus failed to yield at the intersection. Both Miloncus and Calloway were reportedly treated for unspecified injuries.

58 year old Hugh G. Billingsley, of Creve Coeur, IL was traveling southbound on 1000 E. Rd., approaching the curve at 1600 N. Rd.  Billingsley was reportedly unfamiliar with the area and missed the curve in the road.  He traveled approximately 80 ft. off the roadway and struck a tree.  He was transported to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries. 

In what has become a Shelbyville tradition, area residents will have a chance to eat some fried rabbit Friday.  Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says the dinner is at noon Friday:

 [audio:tadfriedrabbit020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, that event is tomorrow at noon at the Shelbyville VFW.

The Christian County Farm Bureau is teaming up with a local bank for an event next week, according to the Farm Bureau’s Melissa Herwig:

 [audio:herwig020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Amy Hagen of U.S. Bank says this isn’t the first time they’ve participated in the event:

  [audio:hagen020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, that event is coming up Tuesday.

April 15 is coming, and you’ll need to get your taxes figured out.  Lori Henry of H and R Block says there are some common mistakes you should watch for:

  [audio:loricommontaxerrors020912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lori and her husband Steve Henry own H and R Block stores in Taylorville, Pana, Nokomis and Shelbyville.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital and US Bank have teamed up for Heart Month. Free Blood pressure screenings are being offered every Friday from 9 to 11am during February. They have added a “Get Moving With US” program. According to Branch Manager Gina Prinavalli, they’ll be leading a walk around the Taylorville Square Friday mornings at 9:00 during the month.

Tuesday night just after 5:00, near the intersection of Springfield Road and Cheney, a Taylorville police officer pulled over a pick-up truck because of a brake light malfunction. The officer reportedly smelled marijuana. The K-9 unit was called out, and the dog apparently sniffed out a small amount of weed. The male juvenile drive was arrested, processed, and released.

Joshua C. Flowers, 25, of Chillicothe Wisconsin was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for home repair fraud.

31 year-old Gregory L. Miller of Stonington was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute. 

28 year-old Kalan B. Miller of Stonington was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute.

As heard on WTIM the Taylorville girls lost too Springfield with a score of 54 to 36.

An accident in Taylorville Friday night left two vehicles damaged. According to police reports, 56-year-old Douglas M . Nagel of Taylorville and 45-year-old M. Charlotte Rainey were both headed east on Route 29 near the intersection with Maincross. Nagel reportedly stopped at the intersection, and Rainey was apparently unable to stop in time. No injuries were reported.

At least ten percent of eligible tax payers in Illinois are missing out on extra cash in their pockets.  They're not applying for the earned income tax credit but Governor Quinn says everybody should take advantage of the free money.

[audio:quinneitc020712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

More than two-and-a-half-million people in Illinois benefited from the earned income tax credit last year.  To get more information on how to apply, check out EconomicProgress.org. 

 Students with immigrant parents in Illinois are getting a chance to go to college.  Senate President John Cullerton says many had an unfair shot because they were undocumented.  

[audio:dreamact020712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lawmakers passed a law last year creating the DREAM Act, which allows any person with a Social Security or taxpayer identification number to participate in a state-operated college savings pool. Governor Quinn recently appointed seven people to a commission to help establish privately-funded scholarships for the students.

The fight for conceal carry continues in Illinois.  A judge upheld the state's ban on keeping residents from carrying loaded guns in public but one advocacy group is challenging the ruling.  Dave Workman with the Second Amendment Foundation says Illinoisans shouldn't be treated any differently than others across the nation.

[audio:concealcarryagain020812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Workman says it's unthinkable that Illinois citizens are being denied their right to keep and bear arms, especially considering the 2010 U.S Supreme Court ruling in McDonald v. Chicago.  That's when the nation's High Court determined the Second Amendment applies to states and that the right of an individual to "keep and bear arms" is protected by the Second Amendment.  In her ruling on Friday, Illinois Judge Sue Myerscough said the U.S Supreme Court has not recognized a right to bear firearms outside the home.

Summer will be here before you know it, and some lucky kids will get to go to camp.  Jody Heberling, Christian County 4H Coordinator, says they have a camping excursion planned:

[audio:heberling4hcamp020812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, the camp is coming up in June.  Call Heberling at the Christian County Extension Office in Taylorville at 287-7246. 

The issue continues to come up from time to time: should the City of Taylorville annex the prison?  The 1200 or so inmates would then be considered citizens of Taylorville, which would mean more money allocated for the city.  But the inmates are now considered citizens of Christian County , so it stands to lose money if the prison is annexed.  Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the topic keeps popping up:

[audio:mayorannex020812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, the Governor would have to sign off on such a change.

The Christian County Senior Citizens Center in Taylorville is well known for its food programs, but many people may not know about other benefits offered,  Marilyn Fisher of the Senior Center says they have a lot coming up this month:

[audio:fisherseniorcenter020812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Judy Gates of the Senior Center says line dancing is good for you:

 [audio:judygatesseniorcenter020812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the Christian County senior Citizens Center at 824-4263.

If you’ve ever thought you’d like to be a barber, you’re in luck.  A Barber College has opened in Taylorville.  Deb Turner of the National Barber College says they get students ready to be professional barbers:

[audio:barbercollege020812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The National Barber College just opened at the end of December.

During his State of the Union speech last month - President Barack Obama spoke of the need to allow homeowners across the country to refinance their home loans.

Friday night just after 9:00, Taylorville police were called to the Wal-Mart store after reports of a man asleep inside. Officers awakened 30-year-old Daniel M. Adkins. He was arrested on unspecified charges, then processed and released on a notice to appear.

Taylorville Police were again summoned to 415 S. Madison in Taylorville, this time on reports of a wanted person. 40-year-old Carolyn D. Campbell was arrested on a warrant. She was taken to the Christian County Jail and held there in lieu of bond.

An Assumption man was arrested Saturday on a bevy of charges. Pana Police took 25-year-old Howard C. Buoy into custody for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and threatening a public official. Buoy was taken to the Christian County Jail and held with no bond.

Taylorville Police were dispatched to Bailey’s Pub early Friday morning on reports of a fight in progress. After a quick investigation, 31-year-old Jeffry Allen of Owaneco was arrested on a battery charge.

54 year-old Scott E. Siegrist of Taylorville was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, resisting a peace officer, fleeing police, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of cannabis. 

On Monday, the Macoupin County State’s Attorneys Office charged 27 year-old Richard C. Morgan Jr., one count of Involuntary Manslaughter.  Morgan, of Gillespie, Illinois, is alleged to have caused the death of his three month old daughter while at their Gillespie, Illinois residence on November 23. Morgan remains in custody at the Macoupin County Jail.  Bail for Morgan was set at one hundred thousand dollars. The incident was jointly investigated by agents of the Gillespie Police Department and the Illinois State Police.

As heard on 94.3 Central A and M lost to Altamont with a score of 56 to 39 effectively ending Central A and M's season.

Medicaid reform is one of the biggest issues facing lawmakers this year but John Coburn with Health and Disability Advocates says lawmakers should be careful not to slash programs like Illinois Cares Rx.  

[audio:illcaresrx020712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The program helps cover deductibles and co-payments for their Medicare Part D plan, which could otherwise be out of reach for them.  The program took a big cut last year and Coburn says it simply can't be cut any further.  He says investing in prescription access now avoids greater costs later.

Governor Quinn says gaming expansion in Illinois is not dead. 

Despite the unusually mild winter, soil moisture rates across central Illinois are doing very well.  Jared White has more...

[audio:2612WarmWetWinterWRAP.mp3]comment here[/audio]

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

Sometime between January 15  and February 2, 2012 someone made entry into a garage at922 East Bidwell Street.  Several items were taken from inside the garage, including  3 trail cameras, chain saw, weed eater, an air tank, a miter saw, and a jigsaw.  The total dollar value of the items is not known 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 their website ChristianCountyCrimeStoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274637) keyword CCCS and then your tip.  As always you will remain anonymous.

Taylorville’s newest Restaurant, Chris’s Steakhouse, features something for everybody, according to owner Chris Orange.  He says he plans to expand the current menu:

[audio:chrisssteakhousemenu020712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Chris’s Steakhouse is at 923 W. Spresser Street in Taylorville, in the Marsango Plaza.

After Governor Pat Quinn’s State of the State address last week, area politicians are continuing to weigh in on the Illinois economy.  Rep. Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville says we are driving business away from the state:

[audio:rosenthalontaxes020712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Rep. Rosenthal says the proposed Tenaska plant in Taylorville has seen its share of controversy, but it would be a big step in the right direction for Illinois:

[audio:rosenthalontaxes2020712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The house is expected to take up the Tenaska question sometime next month.

You hear the name “Angus Beef” and it conjures an image of quality.  Local beef producer T.J. Curtin of Bluestone Farms, says Angus Beef is a Long time tradition in his family:

[audio:curtinonangus020712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Bluestone Farms is located near Blue Mound.

 Establishing a top rated high school agriculture program in downstate Illinois is no easy feat and Taylorville FFA’s trio of ag teachers plan to maintain that standard of excellence for generations to come.

 Taylorville FFA has officially chartered the chapter’s first alumni group with the help of nearly 60 years worth of area FFA supporters and alums. The group, comprised of local farmers, business leaders, former students and parent supporters, is determined to see that the needs of the chapter are met and that the legacy of Taylorville FFA’s outstanding agriculture program is upheld.

With the election of the 2012-2013 officer team, local high school ag supporters are excited to propel Taylorville FFA to even greater heights in the future. The slate is as follows:

President: Larry Barry

Vice President: Trent Norris

Secretary: Pat Grant

Treasurer: Seth McMillan

Reporters: Rachel Stuart and Tim LeVault

Directors: Tommy Barry, Karen Beck, Michelle Beckmier, Shane Butcher, Rob Carls, Jeff Cowell, T.J. Curtin, Kenny Hadden, Matt Heberling, Aarika May, W. Lee Meteer, Mike Mizuer, Tom Mollet, Curt Micenheimer, Mike Nation, Craig Paulek, Pam Whittaker and Jacob Winans.

For local businessman and 2012-2013 President of the Taylorville FFA Alumni, Larry Barry, the alumni group is a way for local citizens to support one of the area’s leading high school ag programs.

All health and human care not-for-profit agencies serving Christian County and wanting to seek funds from United Way of Christian County for the 2013 funding year should contact the United Way office at 108 W. Market, 2nd Floor US Bank Building, Taylorville, IL 62568, by phone 824-8404, or by email unitedwayofcc@consolidated.net.  Allocation applications are being distributed and are due by March 26, 2012.

Allocation Hearings will be held April 17th & April 18^th and are being scheduled now.

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the Reader’s Digest contest, “We Hear You, America” continues, and Taylorville is picking up steam. The Mayor says heavy voting over the weekend brought the city up from 18^th to 15^th place. The city stands to receive not only bragging rights and national media attention, but also monetary awards. If you’d like to help, go to readersdigest.com/America. There is no charge and you can vote as many times as you’d like.

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

49 year old Peggy J. Hoffmeister, of Taylorville, was traveling west on Langleyville Rd. when a deer came into the roadway from the north.  She was unable to avoid hitting the deer.  Hoffmeister was not injured. 

54 year old Melinda E. Sincavage, of Taylorville, was traveling west on Langleyville Rd.  She was not able to avoid hitting a deer in the roadway that had been previously hit.  Sincavage was uninjured.

Cole S. Sparks, 17, of Edinburg was arrested for aggravated battery. 

Elizabeth A. Sanders, 30, of Decatur was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Nathan W. Moore, 29, of Oconee was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for aggravated DUI, 

Zachary K. Waterman, 20, of Taylorville was arrested for consumption of liquor. 

Alyvia M. Fikan, 19, of Rosemond ws arrested for consumption of liquor. 

Edward H. Leonard, Jr. was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

Nicole L. Scott, 21, of Edinburg was arrested for domestic battery. 

A 19-year-old Pana man was arrested Thursday. Alexander M. Hilton allegedly threw a hockey stick at another man and shoved him to the ground. Because the incident occurred on school grounds, Hilton was charged with aggravated battery rather than simple battery.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to Central A&M with a score of 52-44.

As heard on WTIM, Taylorville boys fell to Highland with a score of 62-36.

As heard on WMKR, Taylorville girls defeated Effingham with a score of 51-47.

THE TAYLORVILLE CITY COUNCIL MET MONDAY NIGHT AT THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER. AMONG THE ITEMS BROUGHT TO THE TABLE INCLUDED  AMMENDING  THE CITY CODE TO ALLOW NEW BILLBOARDS ERECTED ON THE CITY’S OUTSKIRTS, WHICH FAILED TO PASS.

THE ORDINANCE TO  TO APPROVE THE “QUIET HOURS” AT THE LAKE WAS APPROVED AS WELL AS THE ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF UP TO ONE MILLION DOLLARS OF REVENUE BONDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEFRAYING THE COSTS OF WATERWORKS PROJECTS.

THE PURCHASE OF A NEW RADAR UNIT WAS APPROVED FOR THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT AT A COST NOT TO EXCEED ONE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED AND NINETY NINE DOLLARS.

THE COUNCIL ALSO APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE TO POST AND OR ADVERTISE THE POSITIONS OF A DISPATCHER FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT, AN EQUIPMENT OPERATOR FOR THE SEWER DEPARTMENT, A CREW LEADER FOR THE WATER DEPARTMENT AND FOR AN EQUIPMENT OPERATOR FOR THE WATER DEPARTMENT.

THE COUNCIL ALSO PASSED A  MOTION TO ALLOW THE POLICE DEPARTMENT TO APPLY FOR THE ILLINOIS CRIMINAL JUSTICE INFORMATION AUTHORITY SQUAD CAR GRANT.

A proposal to raise the state's minimum wage is on lawmakers' agenda again this year.  David Vite with the Illinois Retail Merchants Association says that could have a negative impact on jobs. 

[audio:minwage1020612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Illinois has been hovering around a ten-percent unemployment rate for the past several months.  The state currently has the fourth highest minimum wage in the nation at eight-25 an hour.  The proposal aims to boost the rate to ten-65 an hour in the next two years.  Bill sponsor Senator Kimberly Lightford says an increase is just what many families need to make it in this struggling economy. 

[audio:minwage2020612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

David Vite with the Illinois Retail Merchants Association says that will add to the stress that businesses already face in Illinois.

[audio:minwage3020612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

A proposal to raise the state's minimum wage is on lawmakers' agenda again this year, but David Vite with the Illinois Retail Merchants Association says that will force jobs out of the state. 

Schools, churches, and community centers are being urged to help feed needy children over the summer.  State Board of Education spokesperson Mary Fergus says more kids qualify for free and reduced meals through the year and they still need help when the school doors close. 

[audio:foodsummer020612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Host organizations must meet several USDA guidelines and serve a population where there are students in need.  The sites will be reimbursed for providing nutritional meals and snacks on summer days.  More than 105-thousand students participated in the program last year.  Organizations interested in becoming a host site can get more information at ISBE.net/news.

Governor Quinn took a jab at Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels' position on the Right to Work bill in his State of the State speech yesterday.  But AFSCME Council 31 Executive Director Henry Bayer says Quinn's actions are speaking much louder than his words. 

[audio:afscme1020312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Quinn advocates for the right to bargain but he has frozen pay increases for more than 30-thousand union state workers.  About 200 union members gathered outside Quinn's Springfield office today asking the governor to change his mind.  They say if the state can afford to add 300-million dollars worth of new programs, they can afford to pay out the negotiated 75-million dollars in pay raises. 

[audio:afscme2020312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

AFSME union members want Governor Quinn to pay up on the raises they were supposed to get last year.  Executive Directive Henry Bayer says this is not about politics. 

Sullivan State Representative Adam Brown is sponsoring a bill to protect minors from sexual predators. Representative Brown unveiled his legislation at a stop Friday at the Moultrie County Courthouse in Sullivan.

There are a lot of important things happening in Shelbyville.  Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says people should attend some upcoming meetings:

The University of Illinois Extension is planning a trip next month.  Andrew Holzinger of the extension office says if you want to go, you’d better act soon:

  [audio:holzingertrip020612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the extension office at 287-7246 if you have questions.

The Taylorville City Council will once again take up the topic of billboards neat the Christian County YMCA.  Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says there have been some delays in getting a decision made:

The Shelby County Board will meet Wednesday morning. Items on the agenda include discussion about the proposed closing of the Springfield Postal Processing Center Board members will also hear committee reports, chairman updates and a report from the County Highway engineer and the EMA/Zoning Administrator. The meeting is Wednesday morning at 9 in Courtroom B at the Shelby County Courthouse.

After more than 17 years with the Pana Chamber of Commerce, Jim Deere announced his retirement effective December 31, 2012. He was the 5^th person in his immediate family to have held this position. Jim retrains his full time position and looks forward to devoting more time in the City of Pana Economic Development Office. Be sure to thank Jim for all his years of devotion to the Chamber when you see him!

Taking over Jims duties is Janet Blue Mathias.

Taylorville Police received a tip Thursday evening about possible drug use inside a vehcle o the 100 block of E. Maincross. They ended up arresting a male juvenile on charges of possession of a small amount of cannabis and drug paraphernalia. He was processed at the Taylorville Police Station and then released.  

There's typically a disconnect between city kids and the farm but Governor Quinn is pushing for more urban students to pursue opportunities in Illinois' agricultural economy.

Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans has released the cause of death for 14 year old Mackenzie R. Morleland.    The autopsy, toxicology, and additional studies by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) along with investigations by Christian County Sheriff Office and Illinois State Police are complete at this time.  Mackenzie died from myocarditis.   The manner of death was determined to be natural.  Mackenzie was pronounced dead on October 29, 2011 at 8:30 A.M. at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

The Taylorville Tornado wrestling squad made a huge leap forward Saturday, by winning their first ever team wrestling regional title at the Matoon Regional. Coach Mateer was ecstatic over the heart and resolve shown by his squad. The team claimed the title by one point, edging Mt Zion 188.5 to 187.5. The Tornadoes were  trailing by twenty half way through the match and never took the lead until their last bout of the day. The squad will be sending 11 wrestlers on to the sectionals in Mt. Zion. The Tornadoes had never sent more than 8 to sectionals from any regional qualifier previously. The wrestlers and their results are as follows:

Caleb Dean – 3^rd place – 106 lbs – fall :45 – record 21-13

Nick Flannell – 1^st place - 113 lbs – fall 3:50 – record 25-3

Kidd Morrison – 3^rd place – 120 lbs. – record 25-14

Jake Smothers – 3^rd place – 126 lbs. – fall 3:48 – record 30-9

Jake Hamell – 4^th place – 145 lbs. – record 13-12

Aaron Herkert – 3^rd place – 152 lbs. – fall 3:13 – record 21-16

Nic Turner – 3^rd place – 160 lbs. – score 16-1 – record 23-11

Brock Letcher – 1^st place – 170 lbs. – fall :51 – record 19-3

Dalton Stokes – 1^st place – 182 lbs. – fall 1:34 – record 27-7

Heath Garner – 3^rd place – 195 lbs. – score 8-4 – record 24-12

Kyle Tex – 3^rd place – 220 lbs. – fall 3:47 – record 25-10

Blake Hooper – 3^rd place – 285 lbs. – score 2-1 – record 24-12

Taylorville fire officials are still investigating an explosion that sent two brothers to the hospital. Investigators say one man was burned over 50-percent of his body when a truck he was working on exploded. The other man only received minor burns.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Lady Tornadoes beat the Carrolton Lady Hawks with a final score of 41-38

As heard on 97.3 WTIM Taylorville lost to SHG with a score of 60 to 34.

Amber D. Anderson of Pana called police Wednesday after she received word of a check being cashed from a bank account that is no longer active Anderson found that total of six addition checks had been stolen from an old checkbook. Pana Police are investigating.

A Pana woman told police her disability placard was stolen from her car while it was parked in the Wal-Mart parking lot Wednesday. Edith Bilyeau of Pana said the serial number on the placard is BC60905. Pana Police are investigating.

 A family is grieving after a teenager with Asperger's syndrome was shot and killed by Calumet City police.  Mother, Danelene Powell-Watts, says her son, Stephon Watts, did have a butter knife, but that was no reason to fire their guns.

[audio:copshooting1020312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Police officials say the 15-year-old lunged at officers who felt their lives were in danger.  Powell-Watts says police had been to their house plenty of times before and knew of the boy's issues.  The officers have been placed on administrative leave as the Illinois State Police investigates.

[audio:copshooting2020312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Wayne Watts, the boy's uncle, says there was no reason for police to act like they did.

The City of Pana has scheduled two one-hour workshops to be held on Wednesday, February 8 at the Pana Methodist Church, 619 Kitchell, in Pana with repeated sessions at 3:00 p.m. and again at 7:00 p.m. This workshop will explain Tax Increment Financing, illustrate potential uses of incremental revenues for private and public projects and provide material to property owners about Tax Increment Financing in Pana.

In April of 2011, the City Council of the City ofPanaimplemented Tax Increment Financing in a Redevelopment Project Area which includes downtown Pana. 

Pana Mayor Steven D. Sipes says he believes that helping the business community as well as the general public to understand Tax Increment Financing and the incentives, benefits and programs that can be utilized by existing and new property owners is essential to that success.”  

Thanks to a recent push by Mayor Greg Brotherton, the City of Taylorville is moving up the list in the Reader’s Digest “We Hear You, America” contest.  The Mayor says the hard part now will be keeping ahead of other towns, who may redouble their efforts after more than 17,000 votes were cast for Taylorville this week.  The Mayor says it’s easy to vote:

[audio:mayorbroreadersdigest020312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Mayor says Taylorville now has over 308,000 votes.

A fundraiser is coming up next week for the Shelby Community Hospital Foundation.  Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce the event promotes cardiac health:

Even though it’s not October, you can enjoy some delicious Chillifest chilli this weekend thanks to a fundraiser for Fred Ronnow, President and CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.  Patty Hornbucle of the Chamber says the response has been amazing:

[audio:patty1020312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says the sale will take place tonight at the old Palmer Bank location:

[audio:patty2020312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

All proceeds from the sales will go to help Fred Ronnow and his family during his recent illness.

A lucky student in the Christian County area will be receiving some help with college expenses.  Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp will hand out a $500 scholarship.

Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents, enrolled as a full-time student for the 2012-2013 school year.  The scholarship must be used at an institution of higher learning in the State of Illinois.

Applications are available at the Sheriff’s office or online at ilsheriff.org.  Deadline to apply is March 12^th.

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

Cody M. Jones, 22, of Nokomis was arrested for possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jessica D. Hogge, 19, of Taylorville was arrested on an original arrest warrant for possession of liquor. 

State Senator Mike Jacobs says he and his colleagues need to step up to the plate and tackle the state's multi-billion dollar backlog of bills. 

[audio:jacobsbills1020212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Illinois income tax was raised last year with the intent of paying down the backlog of bills but the state's tab still sits above eight-billion dollars.  Jacobs says if the income tax is scaled back, they'll have to find new ways to generate money or there will be big cuts coming down the pipe. 

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The Illinois income tax rate is scheduled to go down in 2015 but State Senator Mike Jacobs says he doesn't think that's going to happen.  

A proposal to allow Illinois citizens to video record police officers is on hold for now.  Bill sponsor Elaine Nekritz says there are a few kinks that need to be worked out with those who don't like the bill.

Farmers across the country have the opportunity to bring some sizable grants to their local schools courtesy of Monsanto.  Jared White has more...

Times are tough, and it’s not easy to find a job, especially if you don’t have any marketable skills.  Lincoln Land Community College has recently opened a new facility designed to help the situation, according to Judy Jozaitus.

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Contact Lincoln Land if you want to find out more.

Something we sometimes take for granted might be in trouble.  Local Sr. Citizen’s Advocate Mac McGwire says when it’s time to slash budgets, libraries are often the first to suffer:

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McGwire says he attended a recent long range planning meeting held by the Taylorville Public library, and was much impressed with the committee.

It’s hard to keep up with the constantly changing tax code.  That’s why it’s good to hear from an expert.  Lori Henry of H and R Block says tax refunds might be down for some people this year:

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Lori Henry and her husband Steve own H and R Block facilities in Taylorville, Pana, Nokomis and Shelbyville.

The City of Taylorville wants to annex several pieces of property.  Mayor Greg Brotherton says there are several reasons for this:

One lucky college student in the Shelby County area will receive a scholarship. Shelby County Sheriff Michael Miller will be awarding the $500 scholarship to a deserved student. Applicants must be a permanent resident of Illinois, and the student must be enrolled full-time for the 2012-2013 school year. The winner must use the award at an institution of higher learning in Illinois.

Applications are now available at the Sheriff’s office at 151 N. Morgan in Shelbyville, or online at ilsheriff.org. The applications must be turned in no later than March 12.

Response continues to be a massive for a Chili Fundraiser for the President and CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of commerce, Fred Ronnow. Volunteers have announced that because of the unprecedented response, they are no longer able to take preorders for the quarts of chili.

You’ll still be able to buy the chili at the old Palmer Bank location on N. Webster Friday from 4:30 to 7:00pm. They are asking $10 a quart for the brew, which will be prepared using the popular Chillifest recipe. All proceeds will go to Fred and his family to help defray expenses uncured during his illness.

Curb service will be offered so purchasers won’t even have to get out of their cars.

An anonymous tip led Taylorville Police to an address on S. Walnut Street on reports of a wanted Taylorville man. 51-year-old John C. Giles Jr. of Taylorville was arrested on failure to appear warrants out of Shelby and Effingham Counties. He was held in lieu of bond at the Christian County Jail.  

50 year-old John C. Jones, Jr. of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol, driving on a suspended license and deceptive practice.   

20 year-old Taylor S. Jones of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for forgery. 

As heard on WMKR, Central A and M beat Clinton with a score of 54 to 43.

As heard on WTIM, The Taylorville girls lost to The Spartans with a score of 81 to 39.

Rural Illinois communities are suffering financially and according to a recent report, things may not get better for awhile.  Timothy Collins, Assistant Director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, says the problem will likely start to spur state legislation soon.

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The report indicates a potential drop in employment opportunities and economic development in rural areas because younger people are leaving.

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Timothy Collins, Assistant Director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, says economic developers, food banks and faith-based groups are a big help but state lawmakers may have to step in.

Three students have been hospitalized in hazing incidents at Illinois College in Jacksonville this year.  Now, school officials are calling for an end to pledging.  Privacy laws prohibit the college from releasing specific details but a spokesperson says at least one student had life-threatening injuries.  All seven literary societies are prohibited from pledging for the rest of this year.  The groups will still be allowed to function on campus but all pledging activity must stop.  Those pledges that were going through the orientation process will be allowed into the societies. 

State Senator Sam McCann says he thought he had a verbal commitment from Governor Quinn to keep the Jacksonville Developmental Center open. 

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McCann says he's not opposed to moving people from institutional to community care but there must be a plan in place.  McCann wanted a multi-year plan that would ensure the best care for the residents but according to Quinn, the JDC doors will close in October.  

Governor Quinn says there are several pressing issues facing lawmakers this year but as long as he's governor, the priority will always be putting people to work. 

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Quinn says he'll talk about his jobs plan in the State of the State address tomorrow.

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Illinois is trying to dig its way out a multi-billion dollar budget deficit.  Governor Quinn says there's no other way to repair the budget than putting people back to work. 

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Newt Gingrich is facing legal trouble in Illinois regarding his song choice.  TMZ.com reports the Republican presidential hopeful is being sued in an Illinois Federal Court by Rude Music, Inc., which owns the rights to Survivor's 1982 hit "Eye of the Tiger."  The company is owned by a member of the rock band, and they claim Newt has been using the song without permission at various political events dating back to 2009.  The lawsuit, filed on Monday, marks the second time this week Gingrich has been accused of illegally using songs to soundtrack his campaign events.  Third Side Music recently sent a cease and desist letter to the Gingrich camp asking them to stop using the Heavy's track "How You Like Me Now."

Valentines Day is just a couple of weeks away, and Jack Myers, of the Springfield Social Security Office, says it’s a good time to remind people about how name changes can affect Social Security:

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Call Social Security if you have questions.

Pana Community Hospital has teamed up with the Christian County Health Department for a series of immunization clinics, according to Greg Hager with PCH.

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If you need more information, contact Pana Community Hospital or the Christian County Health Department.

Representative Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville says with the new session in Springfield getting underway, there are several priorities he’d like to see addressed:

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Rosenthal says one of the keys to economic recovery in Illinois is creating a better business environment.

Cattle producers are being asked to provide their input to the 2011-2012 National Beef Quality Audit. The audit is led by researchers from Colorado State University and Texas A&M University.  CSU Beef Management Systems Graduate Student Miranda Sis is looking for input from all cattle producers.

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This is the first time the National Beef Quality Audit has sought input from feeders, stockers, cow-calf operators and seedstock producers. Sis says the 43 question survey aims to learn more about today's cattle producers.

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Cattle producers can take the short online survey online through February 6th. Sis will also survey producers attending the upcoming Cattle Industry Convention February 1st through the 4th in Nashville, Tennessee.

Further - Sis says producer input is very important in trying to take a broad nationwide view of today's cattle producers. The audit set out to gain input from 10-thousand producers - but so far the response has been below expectations. Sis says it takes about 10 minutes for producers to take the online survey. The survey remains open through February 6th at cattle survey dot com (www.cattlesurvey.com).

Citations:

An accident Friday morning at 8:00 resulted in a Taylorville woman being cited. According to police reports, 30-year-old Heather Meinart couldn’t slowdown in time to avoid rear-ending a car drive by 63-year-old Joelynda A. Conrad of Taylorville. Both vehicles were damaged in the accident, which occurred at the intersection of Webster and Spresser. No injuries were reported. Meinart was reportedly ticketed for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.  

Arrests:

A Pana man was stopped by police for trespassing and ended up charged with a lot more. According to Pana police, they were called last Thursday by a Pana Bar owner complaining that 27-year-old Travis M. Gregg was trespassing. Gregg was arrested for criminal trespass. After a quick investigation, Gregg was also arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, and for possession of a controlled substance. He was taken to the Christina County Jail, where he was held without bond.

28 year-old Tyler L. Davis of Taylorville was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of cannabis.   

35 year-old David A. Handlin of Mt. Auburn was arrested for domestic battery.   

33 year-old Jason A. Malone of Bulpitt, was arrested for domestic battery. 

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to Moroa-Forsyth with a score of 42-34.