On Wednesday a female juvenile was backing out of a parking spot located on the roadway of Knute Rockne Drive. 35 year old Barry G. Jennings of Boone, Iowa was traveling north on Knute Rockne Drive.

The female juvenile failed to see Jennings approaching and backed into his 2008 Mercury Milan with her 2004 Chrysler Sebring. The female juvenile had driver side rear end damage and Jennings had passenger front door damage and passenger rear damage.

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

David D. Sims 41 of Tower Hill was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for forgery and an unspecified statute.

William D. Stephens 23, of Taylorville was arrest for possession of cannabis.

On March 25th there was a 911 call sent to the Taylorville Police Department in regards to a fight in progress at 1218 West Pauline Street, Apartment 15.

Officers arrived, and after an investigation Kyle D. Burg 49, of Springfield was arrested for battery and disorderly conduct.

On Tuesday David A. Bourlard 45 of Kincaid was traveling northwest on Rt. 29 when he reportedly ran the light at the Rt. 29, Rt. 104 intersection near BP and Spring Garden Restaurant in Taylorville. 

Boulard said he did not see he had a red light.

Witnesses who were waiting at the light and observed Bourlard run the light in his 2000 Dodge Intrepid.

Janette C. Phillips 29 of Kincaid was entering the intersection from Rt. 104 in her 2004 Dodge Caravan on a green light and was struck by Bourlard.

The Effingham Performance Center has been around since late 2010. The newly built facility opened in 2007 as the Rosebud Theater.

According to Janie Oldfield, the theater draws people from all over.

[audio:oldfieldepc032912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Oldfield says they have a big weekend coming up.

[audio:oldfieldepc2032912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Oldfield says in addition to big name acts like Bill Medly, the facility hosts local prdouctions as well.

Community Colleges will start registering students for the summer sessions soon, according to Scott Stallman of Lincoln Land Community College Taylorville.

[audio:stallmanregistration032912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Stallman says you can call him at 287-3316 if you have questions.

The downtown area of Shelbyville might be getting a new look. The City of Shelbyville is trying to do that with the new Streetscape Project.

The Taylorville Boys Basketball team has hired a new basketball coach, but he is well known in the Taylorville Basketball community.

The new coach is Carey McVickers who has led the Lady Tornadoes Basketball team for seven seasons.

In that span he has led the Lady Tornadoes to a 135-82 record. McVickers also has two state tournament trips in his long coaching career he led the Williamsville Bullets Boys Basketball team to a 4^th place finish in the 1991 State tournament.

He also led the Pana Panthers Girls Basketball team to a 2^nd place State Tournament finish during the 2003 campaign.

McVickers says he wanted a new challenge.

[audio:McVickersBoysCoachClip032912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McVickers says there is no difference between coaching girls and boys

[audio:McVickersBoysCoachClip02032912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McVickers says he is going to change a few things within the program.

[audio:McVickersBoysCoachClip03032912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McVickers says he will coach depending on the opponent’s weaknesses

[audio:McVickersBoysCoach04032912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McVickers says he is committed to the team.

[audio:McVickersBoysCoachClip05032912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Jim Novar resigned as head coach of the boys with just two victories and none in conference.

On Wednesday officers were sent to 702 East Elm Street to look for 30 year old Alicia J. Dailey of Taylorville because she had a valid warrant out of Christian County.

On Wednesday at a

As heard on WTIM, Stanford defeated Minnesota with a score of 75-51.

As heard on WTIM:

On Monday, 43 year old Kimberly J. Burchi of Kincaid was traveling north bound at the 8500 block on Cardinal Hill Road near New City.

According to reports Burchi’s 1991 Mazda Miata left the roadway and began sliding sideways into a culvert. The vehicle then became airborne and struck the ground, the rotated at least once, and came to a rest upside down.

Burchi was thrown from her convertible vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene by the Rochester EMS.

The individual mandate portion of the Affordable Care Act is before the U.S Supreme Court and Congressman Aaron Schock was in the courtroom as justices heard oral arguments.

Schock says he doesn't know how the justices will decide but he says the mandate is hurting businesses and job growth.

[audio:SchockACA1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Schock says he's against the mandate and offers a few alternatives to providing healthcare coverage for those who can't afford it.

[audio:SchockACA2.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Schock says employers are uncertain about what the costs will be on their own healthcare premiums plus the taxes and penalties that come along with the ACA.

He doubts healthcare through a centralized system will mean better care for individuals. But, he says the final decision is left up to the Supreme Court justices. They're expected to rule sometime in July.

You may soon be required to pay an entrance fee to enter a state owned park. State representatives approved the measure but Morris Republican Pam Roth voted "No," claiming there's no guarantee the state will use the money for park upkeep.

[audio:ParkFee1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Roth says she understands the need for revenue.

[audio:ParkFee2.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Both motorists and pedestrians will be required to pay the fee, which will help the Department of Natural Resources supplement its income.

The DNR has lost about 58-million dollar in funding over the last decade. The entrance fees are expected to bring in at least nine-million dollars a year. The bill is headed to the Senate.

Researchers say some Facebook users are simply trying to get attention while others really do interact and exchange positive information.

The Pana Police Department is investigating multiple reports of a fight which occurred at Pine and Birch Street around 3:30 a.m. on Saturday.

There will be consideration of charges against Debbie K. Garland, 35, of Pana, Alexis L. Wells, 27, of Pana and Jennifer L. Brown, 26, of Tower Hill for battery.

Charges are also being brought to Michael A. Pickler 28, of Pana for criminal damage to property after damaging property owned by Garland.

A tour of the Underground Railroad is coming through Jacksonville.  The Morgan County Historical Society is planning a bus tour on April 15th to view nine historic sites in the town. 

Costumed guides will be on each bus to provide historical information and true stories of slave rescues and escapes to freedom, plus four of the sites offer inside visits. 

Tickets are 15 dollars for adults and five dollars for children 12 and under. To make reservations, call 479-4144.

Lincoln Land Community College will be closed today for Professional Development Day. 

The synthetic drug trade is a growing industry in Illinois but Attorney General Lisa Madigan is fighting back. Her "Operation Smoke Out" initiative has busted one of Central Illinois' major distributors.

[audio:rddSynthetic1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

William F. Brockman of Wholesale Tobacco and Candy in Jerseyville is suspected of supplying synthetic drugs to convenience stores from Benton to Decatur. Madigan says she's not sure what, if any, charges will be filed against the wholesaler.

Illinois has banned certain chemical combinations that create drugs like Spice and K-2 but manufacturers have found ways to skirt the law.

Now Madigan is backing legislation that will clarify the definition of what a synthetic drug is, address the fact that the drugs are being marketed to youth, and stiffen the penalties for anyone caught selling the drugs.

One lawmaker wants to implement a "Stand Your Ground" Law in Illinois. It's the reason George Zimmerman is still free after shooting Florida teenager Trayvon Martin but Representative Rich Morthland says people still have a right to defend themselves. Morthland says the incident is not going to deter him from sponsoring the legislation.

[audio:rddTrayvon1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

It would allow people to use a gun in self-defense in public places, and like, Zimmerman, be protected by the law. Now, the measure would only be considered once Illinois becomes a Conceal Carry state.

Morthland calls the Trayvon Martin shooting a very tragic incident and joins with President Obama in calling for a full investigation.

Governor Pat Quinn says Representative Derrick Smith should do himself a favor and step down.

Jefferson County Sheriff Roger Mulch says the tornado that hit Opdyke last Friday is one of the rarest he's ever seen.

[audio:rddOpdyke1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

One woman and a family dog were killed in that twister, which had an EF-2 rating. The woman's home is the only one that was hit by the tornado.

Mulch says unusually warm weather is part to blame for the twisters that have struck Southern Illinois in the last month. He urges families to keep their eyes to the sky and develop a severe weather safety plan.

The pain at the pump is getting more difficult to handle for motorists. The latest reading shows the price of gasoline across the U.S. has risen eleven-point-49 cents over the past two weeks.

The nationwide Lundberg Survey indicates the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline increased to close to three dollars-93 cents. Trilby Lundberg says profit margins for refiners and gasoline retailers have increased.

Among the cities included in the survey, the lowest average price was in Tulsa, Oklahoma at three-58 per gallon and the highest average price was in Chicago where drivers were shelling out four-56 per gallon.

With social media sites like Facebook and Twitter getting bigger and bigger, regular everyday citizens can talk to celebrities and more importantly politicians much easier than in the past.

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says that the City of Taylorville’s website improved upon and Brotherton says that he wants to hear from you.

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

Remember if you have a question or concern go to Taylorville.net.

The Taylorville Park Board had a meeting on March 26^th.

The Board went over many things; one of the many issues was the issue of workers compensation insurance. Since the last fiscal year the workers compensation insurance has increased by 87%.

The park has also been working a lot on maintenance. The pool at Manner’s Park has already been drained, and has been kept clean. All of the plumbing set up for the bathrooms at the park has been turned on after being turned off for the winter months.

All road holes in the park have been patched up, and the pond at Manner’s Park has been cleaned and with spring here the maintenance team has already started mowing to make sure the grass does not get too thick.

The golf courses figures were also discussed as the total expense with the course being $82,162 and the income made from the course being $13,491 the overall total expense for the course in the past fiscal year was $68,670.

There were also many upcoming events discussed at the meeting including the monthly Senior Citizen’s meal the next meal will be on April 12^th and is baked spaghetti.

Another event upcoming at the park is the Earth Day celebration which will be on April 22^nd. Also in case of inclement weather the dining hall at Manner’s Park was reserved for the Earth Day celebration.

The running club discussed at last month’s meeting will be in full effect as they already have 7 dedicated members the first meeting for the club is on May 12^th at 8 a.m, and will be every Saturday at 8 a.m. if you want any more information as well as registration forms for the running club you can contact Recreation Director Bailey Hancock at 824-5878.

The Leslie Black Memorial 5k will also be happening out at Manner’s Park on March 31^st at 10 am. Registration cost for the 5k cost $25 and all of the proceeds will go to two scholarships for students.

The last thing brought up at the meeting was the retirement of Park Maintenance Superintendent Ron Stoldt after over 25 years of service to the park district. Stoldt will be going to Effingham to work in farming.

A lot of people don’t know much about Kemmerer Village in Assumption.

It has been said that those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it. The Christian County Historical Society is making sure citizens of Christian County know their history.

With internet websites being used more and more and distracting students from their school work many schools are trying to get students to learn using technology.

With environmental issues becoming an even bigger concern more and more people want information from credible sources.

The Taylorville Main Street Incorporated is going to kick off the 2^nd Annual Easter on the Square on Saturday from noon to 4 pm.

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

Traci A. Fancher, 31, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of cannabis.

Illinois gamblers won't have to leave the comfort of their homes to buy a lottery ticket starting Sunday.  That's because the tickets will be sold online.  Illinois is the first state to legalize online lottery sales, which is expected to bring in at least one-million new players when jackpots are high. 

Those who purchase tickets online will have to register their personal information at IllinoisLottery.com, which includes Social Security number and date of birth. 

Only Illinois residents over the age of 18 will be allowed to play.  Lottery officials say purchases will be capped at 100-dollars a day

With tax season here, Jack Myers of Social Security says a common question is: are social security benefits taxable?

[audio:myersstax032612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The IRS tax deadline this year is April 17th.

Ballot problems were reported in Christian County and many other Illinois counties in last Tuesday’s primary.

Author and former Taylorville resident Fred Durbin came to the Taylorville Public Library this past Saturday and read to the public.

Durbin has other two fantasy novels his first was Dragonfly back in 1999 and his second novel, which just came out is titled The Star Shard.

Durbin says reading is important for children so they can use their imagination

[audio:DurbinAuthor032612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Durbin says the best way to prepare for a career in writing is to read.

[audio:DurbinAuthor02032612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Durbin says his favorite stories are fantasy novels

[audio:DurbinAuthor03032612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

To check out his new book The Star Shard and more information about Durbin you can go to his website fredericsdurbin.com.

As heard on WTIM:

According to the "Chicago Tribune," Illinois is still trying to lure Butler head coach to the basketball program. Stevens has come out and said there has been no contact between the two sides.

The report goes on to state Illinois is looking at offering a contract in the neighborhood of eight years, $21-million.

The Fighting Illini originally had VCU's head man Shaka Smart on their radar, but he declined to stay in Richmond.

As heard on WTIM as part of March Madness being aired on the radio, Ohio state and Syracuse faced off with Ohio ending up on top with a score of 77-70.

As heard on WTIM, the Louisville Cardinals beat the Florida Gators with a score of 72-68.

On last Friday night on Rt. 16 at Karla's Kollectibles a burglary was reported.

There was a brick allegedly thrown through the glass door, a display case was broken and several collectible coins valued at a total of approximately $2770 were taken.

Approximately two to three hours later a very similar burglary occurred in Clinton, IL.

Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact the Pana Police Department at 562-2141 or Christian County Crimestoppers at 824-9100 or 1-800-568-TIPS.

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

John P. Brilley, 30, of Decatur was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for domestic battery.

Officers were sent to the 700 block of East Poplar Street in regards to an intoxicated male subject who was allegedly causing a disturbance.

Officers made contact with 33 year old Todd J. Brookens of Taylorville. Brookens was placed under arrest for public intoxication, transported to the Taylorville Police Department, and released on a notice to appear.

If you're looking for something to do this weekend, Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce has a couple of suggestions.

[audio:tadgunsnhoses032312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Mayhall says you can plan on having a meal this weekend as well:

[audio:tadmoose032312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce is located at 124 North Morgan Street in downtown Shelbyville.

One sure sign of spring is the kickoff of the Taylorville Mainstreet Farmer's Market. Ed Downs, manager of the Farmer's Market, says they are starting a little earlier this year, and building on past successes.

[audio:edfarmersmkt032312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The opening of the Farmer's Market and the Mainstreet Easter Event both take place Saturday March 31st on the Taylorville Square.

Lincoln Land Community College Springfield is hosting the annual Illinois Junior Academy of Science (IJAS) Region X Science Fair on Saturday, March 24.

The public is invited to view science projects on display from noon to 3 p.m. in Cass Gymnasium on LLCC’s Springfield campus at 5250 Shepherd Road.

LLCC Biology Professor Lyndell Robinson is coordinating the event and says that it is important

[audio:LyndellRobinsonLLCCClip032312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Robinson also says that the participants come from all around the area.

[audio:LyndellRobinsonLLCCClip02032312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Students whose projects receive an outstanding score will advance to the IJAS State Science Fair to be held at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign May 5. 

State’s Attorney Appellate Prosecutor Lorinda Lamken ran in the Republican primary for Christian County State’s Attorney unopposed. Lamken will be running against Mike Havera in the general election.

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

Brian K. Sisk, 37, of Nokomis was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol.

On Tuesday officers responded to a two vehicle accident at Springfield Rd. and Cheney Street Jennifer M. Chronister 24, of Taylorville said that the light turned green and she thought Samuel A. Strohl, 82, of Shelbyville moved forward and she could not get stopped and struck the rear end of Strohl's 2002 Buick Park Avenue with her 2004 Pontiac Grand Am.

Strohl said he was stopped at the traffic light and was struck in the rear end by Chronister. No injuries were reported.

Chronister was issued citations for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and driving on a revoked license. Chronister's Grand Am was towed from the scene.

It may be you are looking towards retirement but you are not sure you will be able to do so comfortably. Dave Kepler, a financial advisor at Midland Community Bank, says that it is his specialty:

[audio:keplermidland032212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Kepler is part of Midland Bank's investment services division.

The warmer weather may have you thinking about being more active.

Melissa Rybolt of Pana Community Hospital, says their excercise programs will begin soon:

[audio:ryboltpch032212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Rybolt is Pana Community Hospital's Health and Wellness Coordinator.

It wasn't until four this morning that the Democratic Primary in the 13th Congressional District was called.  Bloomington Doctor David Gill beat Matthew Goetten to take on Republican Congressman Tim Johnson. This is the fourth meeting between Gill and Johnson but Gill says the district dynamics have changed.  

Shaka Smart has turned down Illinois' offer to become their new men's basketball coach.  Multiple reports say Smart plans on staying at VCU, where he led them into the third round of the NCAA tournament. 

Illinois was hoping Smart would replace Bruce Weber, who was fired soon after the Illini were eliminated from the Big Ten Tournament.

The Shelby County Health Department will sponsor an adult immunization clinic on the first and third Tuesday afternoons from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m.

The next one upcoming will be on April 3rd, 2012. Immunizations for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis A, Pneumonia, MMR, TD, as well as Tdap will be offered at these clinics.

Sue Berryman the Director of Nursing at the Shelby County Health Department says that the immunizations clinics are important.

[audio:SueBerryman032212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Berryman says that cost is dependent on the shot

[audio:SueBerryman02032212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If you want any more information you can contact the Shelby County Health Department at 774-9555.

Mike Havera won the Christian County State's Attorney race in this week's Democratic Primary with 87% of the vote over incumbent Tom Finks.

On March 15 at 5:55 p.m. the Madison County Sheriff's Office responded to the report of a single vehicle crash on Buchta Road just east of Springfield Road, Edwardsville, Illinois.

Sheriff's Deputies and an investigator responded to the scene, finding the single occupant John C. Hutson, 19, of Taylorville to be deceased.

There were no witnesses to the crash, but a preliminary investigation indicated that the driver allegedly ran off the roadway and struck a tree, causing the single occupant to be ejected from the vehicle.

The vehicle which was identified as a 1999 Chrysler van caught on fire as a result of the collision. The Holiday Shores Fire Department responded to the scene and did extinguish the fire.

An investigator with the Madison County Coroner's Office was summoned to the scene and pronounced the death.

There were three important questions asked on every Montgomery County Ballot whether you were a Democrat or Republican you could answer these questions.

The first question was shall the city of Cofeen raise the limit on taxes for police protection from the current level of .075% to .6%?

71 votes were for no and 25 were for yes.

The second non-partisan question listed on Montgomery County Ballots was shall the village of Farmersville raise its non-home rule municipal service occupation tax by 1%.

115 voted yes for the 1% raise while 35 voted no.

The last question listed and the most closely contested one was for the city of Hillsboro. The question was shall the city of Hillsboro be authorized to impose a tax of 1/2 of 1% of all gross receipts from all sales made by persons selling tangible personal property at retail in the municipality and further, upon all persons engaged in the making sales of service in the municipality of the selling price of all tangible personal property transferred by such servicemen either in the form of tangible personal property or in the form of real estate as an incident to a sale of service; excepting however, a tax on an item of tangible personal property which is titled and registered with the State of Illinois, and further, excepting a tax on the sale of food for human consumption that is to be consumed off premises where it is sold (other than alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and food that has been prepared for immediate consumption) and prescription and non-prescription medicines, drugs, medical appliances, and insulin, urine testing materials, syringes and needles used by diabetics?

The question failed with 345 votes for no and 322 votes for yes.

Ballot glitches were reported in Christian County and two dozen other Illinois counties during yesterday's primary.

The problem was the cards were too large to fit into the ballot machines. Most counties, including Christian, were able to come up with a quick fix and election officials assure all votes were counted.

The glitch did apparently cause some vote-counting delays in Macoupin County.

Sue Scherer, a Decatur schoolteacher, appears to have won the Democratic nomination for the 96th Illinois House race. She narrowly defeated Winston Taylor. Sam Cahnman came in third place in that race.

Scherer will face Dennis Shackleford in the November elections after he defeated Jared Perry for the Republican nomination.

In the race for the U.S. House 13th District, Republican Tim Johnson has won the Republican nomination. He will face either Matthew Goetten or David Gill in November.

The race is too close to call with most of the precincts reporting, although Goetten does hold a slight lead with most precincts reporting.

In the Illinois 50th Senate District Republican Sam McCann defeated Gray Noll. No Democrats were on the ballot in that race.

Mitt Romney picked up the support from a diverse pool of voters in Illinois, including women and younger voters.  State Treasurer and Romney Campaign Chair Dan Rutherford says that's because Romney isn't afraid of straight talk.

[audio:rutherfordromney032112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Rutherford says that was a great answer because government can no longer afford to provide free stuff.  He says it's time to figure out how to turn the economy around and put people back to work.  Romney won the state's primary with about 47-percent of the vote, with Rick Santorum falling in behind him with 35-percent of the vote. 

The win puts Romney in good position to secure the GOP presidential nomination and face President Obama in the General Election.

In one of the few contested races in Christian County in Tuesday's elections, Charles Declerk claimed the most votes in a run for the Christian County Board District Two Democratic nominations.

Declerk got 359 votes or about 22% of the total. Also claiming nominations: Carol Foli, with 21.5%, Chad Michel with 20% and Dick Breckinridge with 19%. The odd man out in that race was Ron Finley with nearly 17%.

There were only 4 spots available on the board for District Two.

The Democratic nominee for Christian County State's Attorney will be Mike Havera. In Tuesday's Primary Elections, the challenger defeated incumbent Tom Finks by a margin of 87 to 12 percent.

Finks, who was first appointed State's Attorney in 2007, won election to the office the following year. He was plagued by ethics problems after questions arose concerning signatures gathered during an aborted run for a judgeship.

Havera will face Republican Lorinda Lamken, who ran for her party's nomination unopposed.

Illinois is taking steps to weed out bad apples and get beyond a culture of corruption, says political scientist Kent Redfield.  But he says the state has a long way to go.

[audio:rddCorruption1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Redfield says the basic political culture among Illinois politicians tends to be selfish gain instead of looking out for the needs of the public.  He says you'd think politicians would learn from watching others go down.  The state now has two former governors in prison.

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

Kenneth R. Welge, 19, of Taylorville was arrested for illegal consumption of liquor and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kenneth D. Hose, 19, of Mount Auburn was arrested for burglary.

Ryan D. Ingram 23, of Springfield was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for reckless operation of a motor vehicle and driving with a suspended license.

Lisa M. Freeman, 35, of Coatsburg was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for trespassing to reside.

After receiving a report officers went to 610 South Webster Street. Officers arrived and found five subjects inside of the garage.

Upon further investigation, two of the subjects one a 12 year old juvenile and another 14 year old juvenile were arrested on drug related charges.

Both subjects were transported to the Taylorville Police Department and released to their parents.

The Primary Elections are being held today and one of the most hotly contested races is the Democratic Primary for Christian County State's Attorney.

The Taylorville School Board recently voted against a possible change in athletic conference. Superintedent Dr. Greg Fuersteneau says the changing enrollments are why the question continues to be raised.

The Primary Elections are being held today and one of the most hotly contested races is the Democratic Primary for Christian County State's Attorney.

As heard on WTIM, Taylorville defeated Lincoln with a score of 10-5.

Sam Cahnman dropped by the Taylorville City Council meeting to talk about many issues facing Taylorville and the surrounding communities.

Cahnman is currently an alderman on the Springfield City Council and was a board member of the Sangamon County Board.

Cahnman says that voter turnout could be improved by having a secret ballot.

[audio:CahnmanCouncil032012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Cahnman also says that it was important for him to see the Taylorville City Council Meeting so that he could gain a better understanding of the issues facing the community.

[audio:CahnmanCouncil02032012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Cahnman says that his previous service in public office will serve him well.

[audio:CahnmanCouncil03032012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Cahnman's Democratic Primary opponents in the race for the new 96th Illinois House District are Sue Scherer who is a schoolteacher from Decatur and former Fighting Illini football player Winston Taylor.

Other goings on at the meeting included the unanimous passing of the low bid from Darlene Blevins of $17.00 per cabin to clean the cabins at Lake Taylorville.

Five permanent docks are going to be replaced by JLS Marine for five floating docks for a cost not to exceed $ 15,000.

A contribution was also made of $3000 to the Optimist Club for the Fourth of July Fireworks Display with $2500 coming from the Hotel/Motel Tax to help promote tourism and $500 coming from the General Fund.

The $5000 won from the Reader's Digest "We Hear You America" sweepstakes to help with the installation of the 19kW Solar Panels.

All of the motions brought up at the Taylorville City Council Meeting were passed unanimously. The next City Council meeting is going to be on Monday April 2, 2012.

After nearly 15 years as an affiliate of the CNN Radio Network, Taylorville radio stations WTIM Newstalk 97.3 and WMKR Genuine Country 94.3 will become affiliates of the NBC Radio Network on April 1.

CNN Radio Network will cease being distributed to United States radio stations on that date, according to the network's syndicator, the Dial-Global Radio Networks.

NBC Radio Network News will air at the same times as CNN is airing now on WTIM and WMKR.  NBC Radio Network will feature reports from radio anchors as well as NBC-TV news correspondents to cover national and international news 24 hours a day.

The Christian County Sheriff’s office is alerting residents of a growing problem facing our children, Helium.

In addition to the already daunting list of things parents must warn their children about, now comes something that was once considered harmless fun at parties. Helium is an inert gas and is general considered to be non-toxic. However, If enough helium is inhaled then oxygen, needed for normal respiration, is replaced and asphyxia can occur. 

Such was the case of Ashley Long, a fourteen year old girl from Oregon.

Ashley had told her parents she was going to a slumber party, but instead she went to another kind of party, one held by a 27 year old where there was alcohol, marijuana and a helium tank. Ashley breathed in the helium and paid with her life.

You are advised to talk to your children; find a way to educate them.

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

Spencer P. White, 22, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute.

Lisa R. Perkins, 42, of Granite City, was arrested on an original arrest warrant for child abduction.

Samantha J. harp, 22, of Taylorville was arrested ona bond forfeiture warrant for consumption of liquor.

The Taylorville Police Department just completed a compliance check of all sex offenders residing in the city. Currently there are 17 registered sex offenders that live in the city limits of Taylorville.

Officers made contact with all 17 offenders and found two of the offenders were out of compliance with their terms of registration.

Aaron F. Hall, 35, of Taylorville was found to be out of compliance for having a social networking site and failure to report an email address.

Montinez Williams, 34, of Taylorville, was found to be out of compliance for failing to report vehicle information and cell phone information.

Following the investigations into Hall and Williams' non-compliance the cases were forwarded to the Christian County State's Attorney's Office for criminal prosecution.

The Taylorville Police Department conducts quarterly compliance checks on all registered sex offenders residing in Taylorville.

For anyone interested, they can go to www.isp.state.il.us/sor/ which will take them to the Illinois Sex Offender Registry where theyp can view offenders in their area.

The president of the nation’s largest farm organization spoke to Congress this week about the need for national farm policy that strikes a balance between budget concerns and the need for an agricultural safety net.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce annual banquet is coming up, and Patty Hornbuckle, acting President of the Chamber, says they have lined up the speaker for the event:

[audio:chamberbanquet031912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says we'll also find out that night who the big money winner will be:

[audio:chamberraffle031912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the Chamber at 824-4919 for raffle and banquet tickets.

Even though the times are tough, a new business is opening up in Shelbyville. Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says the newest member of the local chamber opened this past weekend:

[audio:svillenewbusiness031912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Contact the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce at 774-2221 for more details.

GOP presidential candidates are hitting the pavement in Illinois this week, vying for support in next Tuesday's primary election. 

Rick Santorum will hold a "Rally for Rick" in Effingham tomorrow at John Boos and Company at 2 p.m.  He'll also make stops in Mt. Vernon and Herrin. 

Mitt Romney spoke before a large crowd in Rosemont this morning and Ron Paul held a town hall in Champaign earlier this week.

The Taylorville Police Department has been using a simulator to teach officers what to do when many different situations occur.

Officer Rick Bryant of the Taylorville Police Department says it is realistic.

[audio:BryantPoliceSimulatorClip031912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Bryant also says that the simulator shows officers scenarios before officers see them in the line of duty.

[audio:BryantPoliceSimulatorClip02031912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Throughout 2011 the Taylorville Police Department responded to over 15,000 calls for service.

The Shelbyville High School National Honor Society is holding a dance for people over the age of 55. The Blast from the Past dance will be at Shelbyville High School Gymnasium on March 31 from 7-9 P.M.

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

Jill Durbin, 30, of Bulpitt was arrested for domestic battery.

Justin M. Sharp, 23, of Taylorville was arrested for domestic battery.

On Thursday morning an officer was sent to a loud noise complaint on the 300 block of East Pleasant Street in Taylorville. Christopher J. Johnson, 19, of Taylorville was found staggering down the middle of the road bleeding from the head.

When an officer made contact with him Johnson immediately ran from the squad east on Pleasant Street. Johnson was caught around a block and a half from where the chase started.

EMS was dispatched to the officer's location and Johnson was transported by Dunn's Ambulance to the Taylorville Memorial Hospital ER.

Officers then went and spoke with Joshua A. Westerfield and James M. Katcher about the night's events. After a short interview and after the scene was processed officers left statement forms with everyone to be completed.

Officers then went to the ER and issued Johnson a notice to appear for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting a police officer and illegal consumption and possession of alcohol by a minor.

If you think the so-called "synthetic marijuana" is harmless, think again. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says the stuff is even more dangerous than real pot, with effects similar to PCP

The Sheriff is urging you to check out a video online that demonstrates the hazards:

[audio:sheriffksyntheticdanger031612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Check out the Christian County Sheriff's website or Facebook page to access the video.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is still accepting applications for the position of Chamber President and CEO, but according to acting president Patty Hornbuckle, the deadline is looming:

[audio:chamberappsdue031512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Chamber is looking to replace long-time President and CEO Fred Ronnow, who passed away recently.

The Shelbyville VFW is the place to be Saturday for St. Patrick's Day. Tad Mayhall, of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce, says not only will there be a conred beef meal offered, you can also pick up an application for a scholarship:

[audio:tadcornedbeefvfw031612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, the conred beef meal will be ath Shelbyville VFW starting at noon on Saturday.

Taylorville High School is going to be holding a dinner theatre on March 22. The play will be Oklahoma!

A new three dollar lottery scratch off game is designed to benefit multiple sclerosis research. John Blazek, with the National M-S Society in Illinois says the ticket will provide valuable funding for M-S research.

[audio:rddMissionMove11.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The new "Mission Move" ticket features a 40-thousand dollar top prize. It joins the ranks of other scratch offs with special purposes, including one for cancer research.

Farmers are gearing up for the spring planting season, but are they going to be planting their top choice of seed this year?  Jared White has more...

[audio:31212SeedSupplyUpdateWRAP.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Investigators with the Better Business Bureau are warning about possible scams in the wake of the tornado in Harrisburg.  Bill Smith says scam artists are likely to use the tragedy as an opportunity to take advantage of people's generosity.

[audio:rddCharity1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Smith says no particular threats have been identified but it's a good thing to be suspicious.  He says you should beware of groups using names similar to large, well respected organizations.  Do not give cash, and don't ever give your credit card number to a fundraiser over the phone.  If you pay by check, you should use the full name of the organization and not make the contribution out to the fundraiser.

Spring trout season is just around the corner and anyone looking to go out for a catch should be sure they have all the proper paperwork, says Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller.

[audio:rddTrout1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Miller says the program is completely supported by those who purchase trout stamps.  Spring Trout season starts April 7th.  For more information, check out Dnr.Illinois.gov.

Governor Pat Quinn has talked about everyone needing to step up to lower the deficit for the State of Illinois.

Well although State Representative Wayne Rosenthal may not agree with how Governor Quinn wants to lower the deficit, Rosenthal and his constituents did just pass a budget for the new fiscal year.

Rosenthal says he plans on building revenue.

[audio:031212wrosenthalstrepclip1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

To contact State Representative Rosenthal at his Springfield office call 782-8071.

For years, the so called "Rt. 29 Northwest Corridor" in Taylorville has been considered the hotspot for economic development. According to Mayor Greg Brotherton, a "wait and see" attitude is beginning to take over:

[audio:mayorrt29tenaska031212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Mayor says there may be many things happening behind the scenes.

Local Senior Citizen's Advocate Mac McGwire says the Triad organization is there to help area seniors. McGwire says Triad is tailored to the are it serves:

Frontrunner Mitt Romney has some work to do to come out ahead in the March 20th Illinois Primary.  According to a new "Chicago Tribune"/WGN poll, Romney holds the lead with 35-percent of likely Republican voters, but challenger Rick Santorum is right behind him with 31-percent. 

However, voters are still open to persuasion. 46-percent of voters said they could still change their minds before Election Day.

A new law could make it illegal for teenagers under the age of 18 to tan in the state of Illinois, even with parental consent.

This new law is causing uproar not only from teenagers, but also from small business owners. Justin Frye, General Manager of The Matrix Gym in Taylorville says he thinks it will hurt business.

[audio:JustinFryeTan031212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Frye also says the law will also hurt his business.

[audio:JustinFryeTan02031212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Frye says that this law would hurt more than it would help.

[audio:JustinFryeTan03031212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The tanning law will go to the state house for a full debate and vote.

The Ag economy is still thriving in Illinois.  Aledo Auctioneer Dale Jones's lot was jam packed at a weekend farm machinery consignment sale.  Jones says several strong sales made the auction a success.

[audio:rddAuction11.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Machinery Pete with "Successful Farming Magazine" says that's the second highest 93-thirty sell he's seen in the 15 years he's been keeping track.  Bidders from six different states were at the auction, plus Jones sold a Bobcat skid-steer loader to an on-line bidder from Pennsylvania.

Governor Quinn says everyone needs to sacrifice in order to get the budget under control, including state officials.

[audio:rddQuinnSac1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Most of the state's Constitutional Officers say cutting their budgets will have a big impact on their performance. Secretary of State Jesse White says he'll likely have to shut down offices.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan says she brings in more than 900-million dollars into the state but that number will be cut significantly if she has to get rid of her lawyers.

Governor Quinn says everyone needs to sacrifice in order to get the budget under control, including state officials.

There were many members of the community in attendance to witness whether or not the Taylorville School Board would move to the Apollo Conference from the Central State Eight.

Originally the thought from last Monday's Athletic Committee meeting was that a move would be put into effect during the 2013-2014 school year.

After receiving an email from the principals of Apollo Conference Schools that idea was scrapped as the Apollo did Accept Taylorville into the conference, but for the 2014-15 school year not the 2013-14 school year.

Many board members liked the ability to wait until that year and preferred the extra year to help balance the budget before the proposed move.

Once the actual vote came into play a full roll call vote was issued. Three votes for yea to move into the Apollo and four votes saying nay against the move. The Motion failed and the School Board and Athletic Committee will have to go back to the drawing board.

Seth McMillan the Athletic Committee Chairman says the board needs to push forward.

[audio:McMillanSchoolBoard031212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McMillan also says that uncertainty was a major reason why the motion was not passed.

[audio:McMillanSchoolBoardfull02031212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

In other School Board news Agriculture teacher Matt Beyers resigned his position after 7 years as a teacher at Taylorville High School.

Also Varsity Boys Basketball Coach Jim Novar's letter of resignation officially went through as well as Freshman Boys Basketball Coach Chase Cocagne.

Computer Programming Teacher Paula Armstrong was released honorably due to a reduction in force.

Stephanie Ruppert who taught Chemistry and Physical Science for the second semester of this school year due to Mr. Britton resigning will not be renewed as a teacher at Taylorville High School.

Board member Kate Fraley also brought up the subject of changing the high school gymnasium's name from West Gymnasium to Dolph Stanley Gymnasium.

Dolph Stanley coached the Tornadoes during their unmatched 45-0 state championship season of 1943-44 season.

Stanley overall won 6 regional titles and 2 sectionals as well as the one state championship as head coach of the Tornadoes during his 8 year tenure from 1938-1945.

Some Jacksonville students will soon be using an innovative way to learn in the classroom.

How many times have you tried to decide what's for dinner, when you have a finite number of ingredients available? Amanda Cole of the University of Illinois Extension has a solution:

[audio:colerecipes0312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Check the extension website for more information.

Macy E. Holstlaw, 16, of Taylorville told officers that her car had been hit and the other car left the scene. Holstlaw stated that Homer Leblanc, 69, of Taylorville was backing out from a parking space at Mcdonald's and he hit her vehicle.

Unknown witnesses told Holstlaw that they saw and heard Leblanc hitting Holstlaw's 2004 Volkswagen Beetle. Holstlaw was able to get Leblanc's license plate.

Leblanc's 1986 Chevy two door pickup truck was found, but not Leblanc himself. Holstlaw identified the vehicle. The truck was towed and had a hold place on it.

Leblanc came to the Taylorville Police Department on Thursday and Leblanc said that Holstlaw hit the rear bumper of his truck as she was pulling into a parking space at Mcdonald's.

There was no transfer of paint from Holstlaw's car onto Leblanc's bumper. Leblanc was issued citations for no valid driver's license and leaving the scene of an accident with vehicle damage.

When you think of potential markets for U.S. soybeans, the Middle East might not be the first to come to mind.  However, a delegation from the Illinois Soybean Association recently spent time talking trade in Dubai. 

Jared White has more...

[audio:3612ISAtoDubaiWRAP.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Attorney General Lisa Madigan has announced that Christian County was the latest stop in her ongoing “Operation Smoked Out” initiative aimed at ridding illegal synthetic drugs from Illinois stores. A total of 1,743 packages of products worth $52,732 were relinquished by four retailers this week in Taylorville and Kincaid.

Taylorville Police, Christian County Sheriff’s Department and the Central Illinois Enforcement Group joined investigators from Madigan’s office in the sweeps to determine if retailers were selling banned synthetic marijuana products.

Taylorville

• Route Mart, 120 W. Park St. – 88 packages relinquished.
• Amity Food Mart, 630 W. Spresser – 800 packages      relinquished.
• First Class Liquors, 101 S. Walnut – 392 packages      relinquished.

Kincaid

• Kincaid Phillips 66, 400 Springfield Road – 463      packages relinquished.

States, including Illinois, initially responded to the rise of synthetic drug use by passing laws that banned specific formulas of synthetic marijuana and bath salts. Drug makers attempted to sidestep these laws by replacing the banned chemicals with new formulas. A new Illinois law that went into effect on Jan.1 takes a broader approach and bans all chemicals that are structural derivatives of the previously-banned chemicals.

Talking on your cell phone could soon be on the list of illegal activity when you're behind the wheel.  Getting caught holding your phone while driving would count as a moving violation but Representative Jim Durkin says the penalties may be too harsh.

The Central Illinois Food Bank will be coming to Taylorville this Saturday. Kayleigh Friend, Public Relations Manager, says the food pantry can help families out in these hard times.

[audio:centralilfoodbank0308121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Friend also asks that people bring something to carry the items they will receive from the food pantry.

[audio:centralilfoodbank020308122.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Friend says there will be 12,000 pounds of food available to the community.

[audio:centralilfoodbank030308122.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Remember the Food Pantry will be at the front entrance of Taylorville Jr. High School, at 120 East Bidwell Street and is made possible by the Central Illinois Food Bank and by Capital District Dietetic Association.

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

Bret G. Zuber, 23, of Assumption was arrested for driving with a revoked license.

Richard E. Owens, 42, of Taylorville was arrested on bond forfeiture warrant for theft.

Officers were sent to a traffic crash on Wednesday at Rt. 48 and South Spresser Street in Taylorville. Thomas J. Bauer, 30, of Belleville said he was stopped at the stop sign behind Melanie E. Tarrant, 44, of Morrisonville.

Bauer thought Tarrant had proceeded through the intersection and moved forward Bauer then hit Tarrant's 2004 Pontiac Grand Am with his 2005 Freightliner truck. Tarrant said she was stopped at the stop sign and then was struck by Bauer.

There were no injuries reported from the accident.

Former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich will defend himself in public one last time next week. 

A spokesman says Blagojevich plans to make the statement before he leaves Chicago to begin serving 14 years in a federal prison in Colorado. 

Details about the speech are unknown, but he is expected to make it before turning himself in to federal authorities on Thursday.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is holding another of its monthly "Business After Hours" program. Acting President of the Chamber, Patty Hornbuckle, says 3 businesses will be featured:

[audio:businessafter030912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The event is open to all members of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.

National Ag Day is a time that is very important to farmers. It is a day where they can get more information and learn about ways to make their farms more profitable.

Scott Montgomery, Regional Manager of Farm Credit Services says FCS' main concern is to help out the farmers.

[audio:ScottMontgomeryFCS030812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Ag Day is also an important day for the youth to get involved and learn more about the possibilities of agriculture.

Marla Eversole, Member Services Representative, of Shelby Electric Cooperative says that there are many scholarships still available for high school seniors.

[audio:MarlaEversoleShelbyCoop030812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

One important thing for farmers to do is to make sure that their crops are insured. Mike Cruit of Farm Credit Services says the deadline for crop insurance is coming up.

[audio:MikeCruitFCS030812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Oil is important to everyone in agriculture. Larry Danberger of Shelby Energy a subsidiary of Shelby Electric Cooperative says some deals are available.

[audio:LarryDanberger030812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Steve Witges, site manager of Farm Credit Services says there are some new programs available to farmers in 2012.

[audio:SteveWitgesFCS030812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Ag Day occurs every year during National Ag Week.

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

Chastity D. Blebines, 21, of Stonington was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for operating a vehicle without insurance.

Thomas J. Vavrik, 28, of Owaneco was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs.

James M. Katcher, 22, of Taylorville was arrested for operating a vehicle without insurance.

There are many options available in today's world for those needing healthcare and rehabilitation. Sue Shumway of Peterson Healthcare, says Shelbyville Rehab and Healthcare offers help at several levels:

[audio:shumwaysvlhealthcare030812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Shelbyville Rehab and Healthcare is a division of Peterson Healthcare, which is based in Peoria.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is now selling tickets for its annual raffle. Patty Hornbuckle, acting President of the Chamber, says the odds of winning are much better than with the lottery:

[audio:pattyraffle030812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says you can buy the tickets from the Chamber over the phone with a credit card and they will mail them to you. The number is 824-4919.

The mayor of Dwight was in Springfield yesterday.  Bill Wilkey says he wants Governor Quinn to know his plan to close Dwight Correctional Center for Women is a bad idea.

An Illinois rape victim is supporting a plan to add a five dollar admission fee to strip clubs that sell alcohol.  The extra cash will be used to fund rape crisis centers, which Deborah Curington says helped save her life after she was raped.

[audio:striptax030712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Curington once worked in the strip club industry and says she's seen a direct correlation between alcohol use and the objectification of women.  She says she's knows at least ten other former strip club employees who've been raped.  State Senator Toi Hutchison is behind a proposal to raise strip club admission fees.  The measure passed in committee yesterday but Hutchison promised to make changes before calling it for a full vote.

The National Greenhouse in Pana is going to expand not only its plant, but also its employment. National Greenhouse manufactures steel and aluminum greenhouses, and currently has 10-15 employees on staff.

John Gardner, a member of the Pana Economic Development Corporation, says the plant expansion is a great opportunity for Pana.

[audio:GardnerGreenhouse030712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Gardner also talked about Pana's workforce.

[audio:GardnerGreenhouse02030712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The expansion for the National Greenhouse is slated to start as soon as possible.

Over 200 people attended Thursday night's Loving Arms Crisis Pregnancy Center annual banquet at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium. The banquet is the largest fund-raiser for the non-profit, faith-based ministry located just south of Taylorville Memorial Hospital on Walnut Street, which brings help to women and families facing unplanned pregnancies.

Guest speaker was Cathi Woods, executive director of The Pregnancy Care Clinic of Concord, California. Woods has served for over 20 years as C-E-O of various non-profit organizations on a local and national level. Her story about abortion has been the subject of a film entitled "Running Inside Out."

Woods shared with the Loving Arms audience, her personal experience of having an abortion at 21 and an unplanned pregnancy at 27, and how she found Christ.

Woods told Regional Radio News after the banquet, that it was the power of just one person that showed they cared, that helped her decide to keep her unborn child when she was 27.

[audio:WoodsaudioMar82012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Loving Arms served some 475 people in Christian County and surrounding area in 2011, and taught sexual abstinence to over 800 students in area schools last year.

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

Leonard D. Cole, 32, of Springfield was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for residential burglary.

Michael C. Sexson, 37, of Taylorville was arrested for driving on a revoked license, possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Officers arrived outside of the Taylorville Police Department at 12:34 AM on Tuesday where yelling was being heard. Officers then made contact with Brenda S. Riley, 38, of Taylorville and Aaron C. Davis.

Riley was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and taken to the Taylorville Police Department. Riley was processed and released after posting bond.

Most people are familiar with buying and selling items on the website E-Bay, and one young central Illinois producer is bringing that concept to the livestock industry.  Jared White has more...

[audio:3512ProlivestockmarketingWRAP.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Golden Circle Nutrition Program provides lunch five days a week to Senior Citizens in Christian County.

With warmer weather moving in, local 4H clubs are gearing up for increased activities. Jodi Heberling, the Christian County Extension's 4H Coordinator says the Illini Summer Academy will take place in a few months:

[audio:heberlingilliniacademy030712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The camp takes place in Champaign June 24th throught the 27th.

State and federal officials are in Harrisburg again today assessing the damage after last week's tornadoes.  Hannah Vick with the Federal Emergency Management Agency says there are a few things that will help them make a determination. 

[audio:rddAssess1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Afterward Taylorville Athletic Committee Chairman Seth McMillan talked about how split the community is on Taylorville changing conferences. 

[audio:SethMcmillan030612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McMillan also talked how both sides were very valid in their points with the biggest con of moving to the Apollo conference would be the additional miles that would need to be traveled.

[audio:SethMcmillan02030612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The biggest pro for switching conferences would be the opportunity to once again be competitive with schools of like size from towns with similar backgrounds and economics.

[audio:SethMcmillan03030612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

He also expressed that the full board would discuss the proposal in length at Monday’s regular board meeting.

[audio:SethMcmillan04030612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The monthly school board meeting will be at 7 PM on Monday March 12, 2012.

Average retail gasoline prices in Illinois have risen 14.5 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.94/g. This compares with the national average that has increased 5.2 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.71/g, according to gasoline price website IllinoisGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Illinois during the past week, prices are 31.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 43.1 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 27.8 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 24.1 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

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

Holly R. Smith, 42, of Pana was arrested on an original arrest warrant for theft, and on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving with a suspended license.

Bryce C. McLean 19, of Coalton, was arrested for possession of liquor and fleeing police.

Katelyn D. Hunt, 19, of Taylorville was arrested for illegal consumption of liquor and fleeing police.

Hayden M. Adermann, 18, of Taylorville was arrested for illegal consumption of liquor and fleeing police.

Franklin C. Cox, 38, of Pana was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

On Friday Donald F. Sams, 62, of Taylorville was traveling north on Webster Street with a juvenile passenger, Sams had changed lanes and was approaching the intersection of Webster and John Street. Eugene A. Edwards, 79, of Taylorville was attempting to exit the parking lot of KFC.

Edwards saw Sams, but thought that Sams was turning into the KFC parking lot. Edwards pulled into the roadway causing a collision between Edwards 2008 Chevrolet Mini and Sams 2005 Lincoln Town Car.

Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene, but there were no injuries reported.

There will be a series of Twilight Meetings coming up. Horticulturist for the University Extension Andrew Holzinger says the meetings have nothing to do with vampires:

Many parents do not know what to say to their kids regarding drug abuse, sometimes because they themselves used to indulge. Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says you still have to warn your kids of the dangers, no matter what your peronal history is.

[audio:sheriffkredrugs030612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Sheriff also said there are still retailers selling synthetic drugs even though they are now illegal.

Taylorville Boys Basketball Head Coach Jim Novar has submitted his letter of resignation per school board approval.

Close to 200 people showed up for an informational meeting on the possible change of conferences for the Taylorville Tornadoes. Athletic Committee Chairman Seth Mcmillan welcomed the large crowd and quickly turned the meeting over to AD Paul Held for a review of the winter and spring sports teams. The highlights of those sports being the girls basketball team that finished the season with over 20 wins and the wrestling program that won it’s first team regional title in the program’s history. The wrestling program also sent 12 wrestlers to the sectional.

Mrs. Fraley took a couple of moments to read a statement discussing the rich history of Taylorville sports, especially the period in the 40’s that saw the Tornado basketball team become a dynasty. Coach Dolph Stanley created a heritage by amassing a 217-49 record from 1937 through 1945. He coached the team to 6 regionals, 2 sectionals and a state championship with a 45-0 record that still stands as the best in the state of Illinois. She then proposed that to commemorate these accomplishments, that the board consider renaming the West gym, Dolph Stanley Gym.

The floor was then turned over to Dr. Fuerstenau who expressed that the meeting was strictly informational and an opportunity for those gathered to share their opinions about the possibility of leaving the CS8 conference. The superintendent informed those in attendance that the conference demographics had changed substantially since it’s inception, The biggest difference being that the large schools were getting larger and the small schools, smaller, with there being no change in that trend in the near future. It was noted that Springfield High had grown from an enrollment of 1335 to 1563 and Chatham had increased enrollment to 1346 from a starting figure of 824. Schools like Taylorville, Jacksonville and Lincoln were seeing their enrollments decrease with Taylorville going from a start of 839 to a projected enrollment of only 787 by the 2016-2017 school year. The schools of the Apollo Conference, a possible fit for the Tornadoes, seemed to run closer to the enrollment of Taylorville. The teams of the proposed Apollo Conference and their enrollments are Mattoon (1031), Charleston (883), Effingham (869), Salem (795), Mt. Zion (760) and Paris (622).

The difference in travel was also discussed by Dr. Fuerstenau. Most of the schools in the proposed conference are at least 58 miles away, one way. The additional travel would require earlier departure times as well as higher fuel costs. This point was discussed at length by those who supported staying in the Central State 8.

The floor was opened to the public to express their thoughts concerning the possible change. The speakers were just about split on their feelings. Most of those that supported the move sited the opportunity to once again be competitive in all sports as well as the opportunity for the student athletes to enjoy their high school sports experience.

Several students came forward and expressed their desire to stay in the CS8 because of the better opportunity to be recruited by colleges. 4 coaches came forward including Coach Mateer and Coach Odam, who both expressed their desire to see the Tornadoes be proactive and make a move before the CS8 conference voted Taylorville out of the conference.

Afterward Seth McMillan spoke that both sides were very valid in their points with the biggest “con” being the additional miles that would need to be traveled and the biggest “pro” being the opportunity to once again be competitive with schools of like size from towns with similar backgrounds and economics. He expressed that the full board would discuss the proposal in length at Monday’s regular board meeting.

The Taylorville City Council had a big debate on whether or not The City of Taylorville should annex the Taylorville Correctional Center.

One of the most outspoken aldermen, Ernie Dorchinez of Ward 3 talked about how the city is willing to overlook unpaid water bills by the state.

 [audio:AnnexationDorchinez030512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dorchinez also talked about other reasons that were brought forth during the meeting why the Taylorville Correctional Center should come into the city.

[audio:AnnexationDorchinez02030512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dorchinez mentioned the big difference in water rates for the Taylorville Correctional Center and how that could be another incentive for the move into Taylorville.

[audio:AnnexationDorchinez03030512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

To contact Ernie Dorchinez or any other council member go to taylorville.net.

The Taylorville Community Unit School Athletic Committee will meet on Monday, March 5th at 7 PM in the High School Cafeteria. The agenda will cover a review of the Winter and Spring Athletic programs as well as the much anticipated review of the Athletic Conference.

The Miller Media Group of radio stations will be on hand to bring you any breaking news from this important meeting that promises to address the status of the Tornadoes in the Central State 8 conference and possible alternatives.

Tune in to our family of radio stations or go to taylorvilledailynews.com for the latest updates.

Legislation pushed by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel that would implement a statewide handgun registry was approved by a House committee on Wednesday and will soon be considered by the full House. House Bill 5831was approved by the House Executive Committee by a party-line vote of 7-4, with all Democratic committee members supporting it.

Representative Bill Mitchell of Mt. Zion calls it an outrage:

[audio:3112MitchellHandgunbill.MP3]comment here[/audio]

The cost would be $20, down from the originally proposed amount of $65.  Illinois gun owners must obtain Firearm Owner’s Identification Cards, but are not required to report the number and types of weapons they own. Under the bill, gun owners would have to report the handguns they own, where they were bought and other information.

The City of Taylorville has claimed 14^th place, as Reader’s Digest today provided the initial results from its 2012 We Hear You America campaign, naming the 18 winning communities who are slated to receive funding and promotional support for community projects and civic initiatives to better their communities. 

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton talked about how getting money from the Reader’s Digest campaign was a team effort.

[audio:MayorDigest030212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Before the money is dispersed it will have to go through the Taylorville City Council. Brotherton does not yet know what the $5000 will be spent on, but he wants it to help everyone in the community.

[audio:MayorDigest02030212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The next Taylorville City Council Meeting is tonight at 115 North Main Street in Taylorville.

More people in Illinois are turning to electronic filing than ever before.  Illinois Department of Revenue spokesperson Sue Hofer says people are starting to see the benefits of e-filing.  

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

Over two million people have already filed electronically this year, that's up by more than ten and a half percent from last year.  Taxpayers can e-file with a tax professional, with tax preparation software, or on the Department of Revenue's website at Tax.Illinois.Gov. 

Taxes must be filed by April 17th. 

The Illinois' unemployment rate is down to nine-point-four percent.  The state's Department of Employment Security Spokesman Greg Rivara says that's a good sign the state is on the right track.

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.  

Mayor Sipes talked about what he thinks of the Split 51 idea.

[audio:SipesSplit0302122.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Sipes also talked about what Split 51 could do for Pana.

[audio:SipesSplit020302121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

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 Taylorville City Council conducted a lot of business in their 45-minute meeting Monday night at the Council chambers.

 The Council held a public hearing at 6:45 before the Council meeting at 7, on annexing the Ziad Asali property near Route 104 and Langleyville Road, into the city.  There was no public comment during the public hearing.  The Council in their meeting, OK’d the annexation.  They also OK’d Planning Commission recommendations for approving site plans for a new concrete plant to be built at the former T-G Double Play on East Main Cross, and a new parking lot at St. Mary’s Catholic Church at the southeast corner of Main and Adams. 

 Taylorville aldermen Monday night approved a a joint resolution between the city of Taylorville and Christian County, for the West Lake Shore Drive Spillway Bridge….and they approved an ordinance erecting a “no stopping on pavement” sign on Broaddus Road, after cars were stopping to view the Broaddus petting zoo without pulling into the parking lot provided.

The Taylorville City Council Monday night voted to purchase a used Kuhn Knight lime slinger for an amount not to exceed 30-thousand dollars, voted to vacate a portion of Boch Street between 1115 and 1127 West Russell even to Steve and Melvin Grieme with the Grieme’s responsible for all associated fees; they purchased concrete for this year’s sidewalk replacement program from Presnell Brothers, Incorporated; they bought fuel from Christian County Farmer’s Supply; aldermen accepted the low bid for mowing for the 2012 season from Schmedeke Mowing; accepted the low bid for the city’s curb and gutter replacement program from Phil Tullis Excavating; and also accepted Tullis’ low bid for the 2012 sidewalk replacement program.

Taylorville aldermen Monday night approved several pay requests for the city’s storm sewer project, and allowed the city to purchase a color copier for the Street and Sewer Department at a cost of nearly 56-hundred dollars.

Council members OK’d replacing a steel door at the police department costing nearly 3-thousand dollars, and voted to send 2 police officers to the fall Crime Scene Investigator Course at a cost of some 44-hundred dollars.  Council members also directed Mayor Greg Brotherton to notify the Police and Fire Commission to update the applicant list, to begin the process of filling a policeman position upon retirement of one of the officers.

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton announced at Monday night’s City Council meeting, that the City has updated their web site, with lots more information now available to residents at Taylorville-dot-net.  Brotherton also reported on last week’s police arbitration hearing; he’s expecting to get the arbitrator’s decision in writing this coming week.  Brotherton did express to the Council his frustration that the labor agreement with the police union could not be settled before the city had to spend a considerable amount of money to arbitrate the issue.

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

Chestin L. Conn, 21 of Taylorville was arrested for giving liquor to a minor.

Leanne Kinsella, 60 of Taylorville was arrested for driving with a revoked license.

Markee M. Bayne, 18 of Taylorville was arrested for consumption of liquor.

Chase M.J. Windell, 21 of Taylorville was arrested for driving with a revoked license.

The Pana School Board has had meetings with Central A&M and Nokomis. The reason for these meetings is to hold ice breaker discussions about the idea of consolidation.

Pana Superintendent Dr. David Lett does not think the Pana School Board wants to consolidate, but he thinks they are being proactive.

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Lett explained why he thinks Nokomis and Central A&M would be good fits with Pana.

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There is no time table for any consolidation and the meetings are just preliminary.

Representative Jil Tracy is looking to change the provisions of the Illinois Dissolution of Marriage Act. 

She says all too often a person who represents the child in a custody battle charges outrageous fees and drags the process out so they can get even more money.

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Tracy is behind a proposal that would require the child's representative, attorney or guardian ad litem to submit a detailed invoice every 90-days.  The proposal passed in a House committee yesterday.

On March 16, children ages 8-11 will have an opportunity to create “Art After Dark” at the Illinois State Museum. Participating children will make recycled paper, create papier-mâché art, learn about printmaking, and explore the On & Of Paper exhibition.

Campers will also have time to play in the Play Museum and sleep under a giant oak tree in the Museum’s natural history exhibit. A late-night pizza snack and breakfast will be provided. The program will end at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 17.

Registration is required by March 12.  For more information on fees and registration contact Elizabeth Bazan at at ebazan@museum.state.il.us or 782-5993.

Eastern Illinois University President William Perry is confident the school can handle making additional pension costs for employees.  The comment comes in response to Governor Quinn's suggestion that universities pick up the pension obligations to help relieve the state's pension troubles. 

Three men accused of poaching a 36-point deer last November are scheduled to appear in court later this month. Christopher Kiernan, Garret Armstrong, and Larry Smith allegedly killed the 35-thousand dollar buck. 

They're facing charges of hunting without permission of the land owner and unlawful possession of an illegally taken deer.  

The three are scheduled to appear in a Grundy County court on March 26th.

Emergency Preparedness week is March 4-10 and Christian County Emergency Management Agency Director Mike Crews thinks it is important because it is a good refresher on what you are supposed to do.

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One event that is in Emergency Preparedness week is the National Weather Service weather spotter training. This will be held on March 19 at Morrisonville Fire Department at 7:00 PM.

Crews talked about what you can learn in that event.

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Crews also talked about the importance of a weather radio.

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If your workplace or organization would like to be included into the CCEMA weather alert email database, or request a severe weather presentation, please send a note to the CCEMA at christiancoema@yahoo.com.

State Representative Roger Eddy supports a plan to let people smoke inside some Illinois businesses.

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A proposal in Springfield would've given liquor commissioners authority to supersede the Smoke Free Illinois Act.  They'd have the option to issue smoking licenses to casinos, adult entertainment venues, private clubs, and businesses that earn less than ten-percent of their income from food sales.  Smoking would still be prohibited in restaurants.  The proposal failed in the House yesterday.

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Representative Randy Ramey says allowing some businesses to let their patrons smoke is a business friendly measure that will help them recoup some of the revenues lost from the smoking ban.

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State Representative Karen Yarbrough calls a measure to allow smoking in some businesses outrageous.  She says the Act is not just working, but its helping keep people healthy.

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

Willie J. Jones, 39, of Taylorville, was arrested for domestic battery.

On Tuesday night officers responded to a two vehicle accident at East Park and East Main Cross.

Laurel M. Jacobs, 56, of Pana, said she was messing with her radio and did not see that Anthony J. Minton, 18, of Owaneco, was stopped at the stop light.

Jacobs said she struck the rear end of Minton's 2002 Honda Accord. Jacobs had front end damage and Minton had rear end damage from Jacobs. Jacobs' 2002 Volkswagen Beetle was towed from the scene of the accident.

Jacobs was issued a citation for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. There were no injuries reported.

Early voting has become a process in which a lot of voters like as an alternative to the hustle and bustle of voting on Election Day. In Christian County there has already been 67 votes cast since early voting opened up on February 10th. 

At least ten people are dead after an early morning tornado swept through Harrisburg.  Many others were injured in the twister which hit just after five this morning, leaving homes and businesses in shambles. 

Governor Quinn is expected to assess the damage later today but in the meantime, emergency crews have been deployed to the area. 

The Illinois Emergency Management Association is among those heading in.  They're prepared to offer assistance and help in any way they can. 

Sightseers are urged to stay away from the area because gas lines are leaking and power lines are down.