The Annual Fish Habitat Improvement Project at Lake Shelbyville is scheduled for Saturday, March 9, 2013.  Volunteers are needed to help bundle 412 donated Christmas trees, assemble 160 new artificial fish attractors and help place all of the fish attractors in the lake.  Anyone interested in volunteering should meet at the Coon Creek Boat Ramp at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 9. If the conditions are not conducive on the 9th the work day will push backed to Saturday, March 16, 2013.

This year volunteers are asked to bring their pontoon boats as well as jon boats.  The artificial attractors are approximately 5 feet in diameter and are more easily transported on a pontoon boat. If you have a boat and can bring it to help, please contact Natural Resources Specialist Ashley Florey at (217) 774-3951, ext. 7005 before the work day for planning purposes.

The donated Christmas trees will be bundled together in small groups, then taken out by boat and submerged in the lake at select locations.  The attractors provide fish with breeding areas and escape cover. 

The Lake Shelbyville U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be providing lunch for the volunteers after the work is completed at the Lake Shelbyville Visitor Center Auditorium.  The Corps thanks Wal-mart of Shelbyville which  donated all of their left over Christmas Trees, Fox and Austin Masonry & Concrete Construction for donated oversized bricks for artificial fish attractors' anchors and Johnstown Mall and the City of Sullivan for provided areas for collecting trees. 

The Christian County Sherriff's Office Report the Following Arrests:

Kody J. Koonce, 19, of 304 James Street, Bulpitt, was arrested on February 26 for criminal damage to property. 

Charles P. Smith, 29, of 801 E. Poplar, Taylorville was arrrested on February 26 on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of drug paraphernalia.  

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

 A Taylorville Police Department officer was dispatched to First Class Liquor in regards to a theft.    The owner of the store avised that a male juvenile had attempted to steal a can of beer, was confronted, and then allowed to leave.  The owner stated that the male juvenile had been in the store the previous day and after reviewing security footage, had been seen taking a can of beer from the store without paying for the item.  Security footage was viewed and the male juvenile was recognized.  Taylorville Police Department officer was unable to locate the male juvenile after checking the area.  On February 25, the male juvenile was at the Taylorville Police Department in regards to another matter.  The juvenile was then charged with retail theft.  He wa processed and transported to court. 

 A Taylorville Police Department officer was dispatched in regards to a male juvenile trying to harm himself.  Taylorville Police officer made contact with the male juvenile and knew had a valid warrant out in Christian County.  The male juvenile was transported to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment, released, placed under arrest for the warrant and then transported to Sangamon County Juvenile Detention Center. 

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

2-25-13

2 Gas Odors, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident, 2 EMS

2-27-13

5 EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accidents, 1 Public Assist

Pana Community Hospital is announcing that  Dr. Steven Weber has joined the medical staff at Pana Community Hospital.  Dr. Weber will see patients one to two days a week by appointment. 

Dr. Weber specializes in General Surgery and has been providing surgical services to the Pana Community Hospital specialty clinics since July of 2008. 

Dr. Weber retired from Decatur Memorial Hospital on February 1, 2013 and was interested in continuing his practice on a part time basis.  He chose PCH as his office location. 

Dr. Weber is also interested in devoting time to mission work.  He will be working with Pan-African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS) in the countries of Kenya, Niger, Ghana, Togo, Tanzania and Bangladesh.  PAACS primary function is to train African Surgeons and presently has 36 surgeons in training.   

You or your primary care physician can reach the office by calling 562-6246. 

It’s important to keep a close eye on your health.  Pana Community Hospital may be able to help.  Melissa Rybolt, Wellness Coordinator at the hospital, says they are offering a new program:

 [audio:ryboltwellnesscheck022713.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Pana Community Hospital is located at 101 E. 9^th Street in Pana.

Insurance may not be the most fascinating of topics, but it’s important to know about it.  That’s where Illinois Department of Insurance Public Information Officer Mark Terry comes in.  Terry tells Regional radio News that there are several things he likes about his job:

  [audio:terryinsurance022713.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Terry says there are over 170,000 insurance agents in Illinois.

You wouldn’t know it based on Today’s weather, but spring is approaching. For the Christian County YMCA, that means it’s time for soccer. Chris Weitenhiller, Director of the YMCA says they are signing kids up now:

 [audio:weitenhillersoccer022813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Weitenhiller says everyone is invited to a free soccer coach’s clinic. Director of soccer coaching Andres Collada will be on hand, along with Taylorville coach Adam Lawless. That clinic will be March 23^rd from 9 to 11am at the YMCA. Weitenhiller says the pool gets a little less use when the weather turns warm:

 [audio:weitenhillerpool022813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Christian County YMCA is located at 800 McAdam Drive in Taylorville.

If you have ever thought you would like to be a barber, the National Barber College in Taylorville is there for you. Instructor Denise Johnson says there is a difference between a barber and cosmetologist:

 [audio:johnsonbarber022813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The barber college, which is located just off the Taylorville square on E. Main Cross, currently, has seven students enrolled, and Johnson says there is room for more.

Gowin Parc has been open in Taylorville now for a couple of months.  Owner Teresa Gowin says what Gowin Parc offers is different from other long term care facilities:

  [audio:gowin1022813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Gowin says Taylorville has been very supportive:

  [audio:gowin2022813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The new Gowin parc in Taylorville is on McAdam Drive, next to the Christian County YMCA.

There have been several reported incidents involving fake cops pulling women over in Sangamon and Morgan Counties.  Taylorville Police Chief Dave Herpstreith (HERP-street) says although there have been no such incidents reported in Christian County, motorists still need to exercise caution:

  [audio:herpstriethfakecop022813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Chief Herpstreith says you can also call 911 to find out if the vehicle following you is a real police officer.

"The Latest in Business Computer Technology" was the program for the Kiwanis meeting on Tuesday. Bobbie Durbin and Aaron Bialas from CTI discussed how new solid state hard drives have no moving parts and provide increased computing speed and durability. They detailed how cloud storage and server technology is allowing consumers to store their information in locations other than their homes or businesses. This provides greater access and protection of your information. Besides computer hardware solutions, CTI also offers DSL service with speeds up to 20 MB and both business and home computer consulting.

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

Blake A. Hoffman, 22, of 1511 W. Elm Taylorville, was arrested on February 25 for domestic battery. 

Kirstie A. Miller, 37, of 507 North Walnut Taylorville, was arested on February 25 on an original arrest warrant for manufacturing/delivering a controlled substance. 

Brian K. Sisk, 38, of 604 Edwards, Nokomis, was arrested on February 25 on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving witha suspended license. 

Joseph A. Leckner, 21, of 417 N. 12th Street, Springfield, was arrested on February 25 on a bond forfeiture warrant for unlawful restraint. 

Kristen L. Brown, 18, of 300 W. Paw Paw, Taylorville, was arrested on February 25 fro domestic battery. 

Andrew M. McDonald, 18, of 313 S. Walnut, Pana, was arrested on February 25 on a bond forfeiture warrant for unlawful use of a weapon. 

Kevin L. Montroy, 32, of Mt. Auburn, was arrested on February 25 on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

 The Taylorville Police Department report the following:

On February 25, at 10:43 am,  aTaylorville Police Officer was on patrol and observed three male subjects walking in the Taylorville Food Center parking lot.  The officer knew one to the male juveniles was a runaway.  The male was ran through Law Enforcement Agency Data System.  Andrew M.McDonald, 18, of Pana was ran through and came back with a valid warrant for failure to appear.  He was arrested, processed and taken to the Christian County Correctional Center.  The male juvenile runaway was released to his mother. 

In the late morning hours on February 25, Taylorville Police Officers were dispatched to 1511 W. Elm for a report of a domestic disturbance.  Officers arrived, and spoke to both subjects.  After a brief investigation, Kristine L. Brown, 18, of Taylorville and Blake A. Hoffman, 22, of Taylorville were arrested for domestic battery, processed and taken to the Christian County Correctional Center.

Pana Police report the following Arrests:

Pana police are still investigating an apparent car theft that took place Sunday.  According to reports, Taylorville police reported to Pana PD that they had found  a 16 year old male driving a 2003 Cadillac.  In the course of the investigation, it was discovered that the vehicle had been stolen from the Lake Lawn Motel in Pana.  The reports will be forwarded to the Christian County State’s Attorney’s office, requesting a juvrenile petition be filed.

A Pana Man was arrested Monday.  Police arrested 37 year old Brian K. Sisk, who was reportedly wanted on a warrant for driving while his license was suspended.

The TRIAD organization will hold a meeting next month.  Taylorville Police Department Deputy Chief Brian Hile says anybody is welcome to attend TRIAD:

A program from the past is coming back.  Melissa Herwig, Christian County Farm Bureau Manager, says they are bringing back the Young Leaders program:

 [audio:herwigyoungleaders022713.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If you want to find out more about the Young Leaders Program, call the Christian County farm Bureau at 824-2940.

Central Illinois is experiencing a variety of weather today, as another winter storm goes across the Midwest.

The Regional Radio listening area is not under any watches or warnings, as rain, snow, and sleet is expected into the afternoon but temperatures are to stay above freezing. By mid-morning, the Weather Service revised their forecast to indicate the total snow and sleet accumulation today will be around half an inch. A few snow showers are to linger into tonight, with the Weather Service saying we’ll get less than an inch.

North and west of our listening area, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 6 o’clock tonight for counties along the Illinois River in western Illinois. Winter storm warnings are posted until 6 o’clock this evening for counties west of the Illinois River, for 6 to 8 inches of snow. Peoria is expected to receive 3 to 5 inches. The area in the winter storm warning is also to receive winds between 30 and 35 miles an hour.

Motorists traveling into those areas today, should exercise caution and monitor local radio for further information.

The Taylorville Public Library does a lot more than lend books. It's also a community center where local events and occasions are spotlighted. Head librarian Dorothy Siles says a good example is the display cases that greet visitors to the library:

[audio:silesdisplays022613.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The library recently had to reschedule an event. Local author Carol Alexander's planned appearance last week was postponed because of weather. Alexander, author of "The Big Squeal" will apear at the libary next month instead.

With prom season coming up, you may be in the market for a gown.  If so, you’re in luck because of a fundraiser for a Relay for Life team.  Say Yes to the Dress is sponsored by the Bench Dips Relay for Life team, and according to Lisa Van Ravensway, it could save you a lot of money:

 [audio:lisavanravensway022613.mp3]comment here[/audio]

“Say Yes to the Dress” will take place March 16^th from 1 to 4pm at Taylorville Jr. High

One of Taylorville’s most popular restaurants is adding a new service.  Krieger’s Hometown Sports Grill now offers catering.  Manager  Carrie Mollohon says just about anything on their regular menu can be part of their catering menu as well:

 The Taylorville Police Department Report the following arrests:

Friday, 21 year old Jose G. Jr. Ruiz of Vienna was stopped by a Taylorville Police Department officer for disobeying a traffic control device.  A registration check showed the owner of the vehicle to have a suspended license.  TPD officer spoke to Ruiz, and confirmed through the Law Enforcement Agency Data System that he was driving on a suspended license.  Ruiz was arrested and taken to the Taylorville Police Department where he was processed and released on a notice to appear.

Friday night a Taylorville Police Officer initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding.  Upon further investigation, the male driver, 23 year old  Brian P. Jaeger of Taylorville, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.  He was taken to the Taylorville Police Department for processing and released after posting bond. 

In the early morning hours Saturday,, a Taylorville Police Officer initiated a traffic stop and arrested 43 year old Douglas S. Warcup of Pana, for driving while his license were suspended.  He was taken to Taylorville Police Department for processing and released on a notice to appear. 

Early Sunday morning, 911 radioed Taylorville Police Department in reference to a man trying to gain entry to his neighbor’s house.  Upon arrival, Taylorville Police Officer spoke to the female neighbor who heard someone at the back door and thought it was her son.  When she opened the door and let him in, she could see it was not her son in the light.  She then forced him out the back foor.  A short time later, TPD officer located the suspect,19 year old Jeremy T. Emery of Taylorville on Taft Street.  Emery, who was apparently wanted on a Christian County warrant, was allegedly intoxicated.  He was taken to the Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond. 

Sunday morning dispatch received a call from the Christian County Sheriff's Office in reference to 27 year old  Alicia B. Best of Taylorville, seeking medical treatment at Taylorville Memorial Hospita.  She was apparently wanted on two valid warrants.  Bess was taken to Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond. 

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

2-21-13 

2 Motor Vehicle Accidents, 2 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm

2-23-13

2 EMS, 1 Public Assist, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident

2-24-13

1 EMS

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Tornadoes defeated MacArthur 78-70.

According to Jeff and Jason Boldig, managers at Lakeshore Golf Course in Taylorville, improvements have been made, some are yet to be made and the course is ready to open for business on March 1, 2013.

Boldig reported that the banquet room has been repainted and the furnace repaired. Also, a larger water softener was installed to handle the increased water usage in the clubhouse. New carts have been added to the fleet. He also reported on some items he would like to see taken care of including the moving of the current septic tank and chlorinator from it’s present position to the far end of the cart shed. It was reported that the best bid received was from Ricci Plumbing in the amount of $7356.75. It was felt that this move was necessary to cut down on the odor being issued near the clubhouse and party areas. The management also received a bid in the amount of $6253 to paint the exterior of the cart shack. This bid was received from Primary Painting in Taylorville. The board approved the 2 bids and are awaiting a bid on repairs to the irrigation system. Boldig informed the board that the Hopper Foundation had graciously made a donation of $20,000 to the course to use for the purpose of repairing sand bunkers.

In other business, the Park Board approved the Operating Budget for the 2013-2014 year. The budget was approved with $742,420 in expenses and $743,715 in income. These figures were based on the actual amounts for 2012-2013 which were $685,827.29 in expenses with February expenses still pending and $752,429.48 in income with February income still pending. The purchase of a power washer in the amount of $1759 was also approved with the bid being submitted by Sloan Implement in Taylorville.

The board also approved the sale of 2 pieces of equipment by sealed bid. The high bidders were Tim Wicker for the used New Holland mower with a bid of $100 and ABC supply for the cart in the amount of $125. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:45.

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

Tia B. Paine, 32, of Taylorville, was westbound on Illinios Rt.104 just east of Kincaid Lake entrance.  She drove off the road to the right in her 2007 Jeep Compass right side of the vehicle.  Paine came back onto the roadway and continued westbound.  The vehicle and driver were later located at a residence in Kincaid. 

Nickolas J. Verardi, 42, of Taylorville, was northbound on County Road 1400 east.  Amotasi Teutusi, 50, of Taylorville was southbound on County Road 1400 east just south of County Road 1100 north when the vehicles met.  The driver side mirrors of each vehicle made contact receiving damage. 

Amber L. Daniels, 22, of Taylorville, was westbound on Township Road 900 north just east of Township Road 2100 east.  She lost control of her 2007 Pontiac G5 due to snow packed road.  Daniels slid off the road and into the right (north) ditch causing damage to the front, rear and under carriage of her vehicle.  She was transported form the scene by Assumption ambulance.  Double D towing removed the vehicle from the scene. 

Timothy G. Neisler, 42, of Taylorville, was traveling west on 1000 north approaching the intersection with County Highway 1.  Neisler said he could not stop in time at the stop sign and collided with Jason R. Lashbrook, 27, of Stonington, which was traveling north on County Highway 1.  After impact. Neisler came to rest in the field northwest on the intersection and Lashbrook jacknifed and came to rest in the west of County Highway 1.  Neisler and juvenile passenger were taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

James J. Pickett, 87, of Kincaid, was traveling west on state Route 104 and tried to turn on 1500 North Road.  Pickett slid in the intersection in his 1997 Chevrolet Conversion and went off the roadway.  He ran over a telephone box and a warning sign for buried cable.  Pickett was stuck on top of the signs. 

With the recently announced plans to close South Elementary School in Taylorville after the current school year, the question comes up: what will happen to the employees of the school?  Dr. Greg Fursteneau, superintendent of Taylorville schools, says most of the employees will be reassigned:

 [audio:fursteneausouthjobs022513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The school board voted last week to close the school as a cost cutting measure.  The State of Illinois still owes the district millions in promised funds

If you’re slacking off on your New Year’s resolution to get in better shape, you might want to consider something coming up in March.  Chris Weitenhiller of the Christian County YMCA says they are planning a fitness challenge next month:

[audio:weitenhillerfitnesschallenge022513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Christian County YMCA is at 900 McAdam Drive.

With spring approaching, gardeners are already planning for the season.  Gwen Podeschi, Master Gardener with the University of Illinois Extension, says there’s work to be done:

[audio:podeschistarters022513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The University of Illinois Extension in Christian County can be reached at 287-7246.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Tornadoes defeated the Mattoon Green Wave 69-49.

The Christian County YMCA in Taylorville has recently expanded its “Body Pump” exercise program. The program now has 3 instructors and has seen an increase in participants who want to get into shape.

Instructors include from the left:   Sarah Hunt, Katie Cervi, and Kristin Campbell. Katie participated in Body Pump classes while attending college in Peoria, and is glad to help bring them to Christian County. Sarah was a participant in one of Katie's classes at the Y, and later became certified as an instructor. Kristin lost over 130 pounds as a result of being a participant in Body Pump, and decided to become an instructor herself.

The Y is offering new Body Pump class sessions starting Monday. Kristin and Sarah lead classes on Monday and Wednesday nights at 6:15, while Katie leads Tuesday and Thursday night classes at 5:45, and Katie also leads a Saturday morning class at 8:15.

For more information or to sign up for the Christian County YMCA's new “Body Pump” session, stop by or call 287-7271.

As heard on groovy 93.5, the Taylorville boys fell to Sacred Heart Griffin with a score of 59-47.

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Gary A. Lyerla, 44, of 59 Hannon Trailor Ct., Taylorville, was arrested on February 20 on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession control.

John S. Brady, 60, of 709 N. Ridge,  Taylorville, was arrested on February 20 on a bond forfeiture warrant for Driving Under The Influence of Alcohol. 

Robert T. Pullen, 22, of 43 Fairview Trailor Ct., was arrested on February 20 on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of cannabis. 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

At 1:21 pm on February 20, Taylorville Police Department Officer went to 43 Fairview Trailer Court in search of Rober Pullen.  There was a valid warrant for him.  He was located at this residence, and he was ran through Law Enforcement Agency Data System.  It came back that there was a valid warrant for failure to appear.  Pullen, 22, of Taylorville was arrested, processed and taken to Christian County Correctional Center. 

On February 19 at 12:49 pm, a Taylorville Police Officer observed a male juvenille at East Main Cross and Walnut.  There was a valid juvenile warrant for the male juvenile.  He was ran through the Law Enforcement Agency Data System, was arrested, processed and taken to the Christian County Correctional Center. 

On February 18 at 8:13 pm, Taylorville Police Department officers were dispatched to 1218 W. Pauline in reference to a domestic disturbance.  Subsequent to investigating, Lisa Harker, 37, of Taylorville was arrested for possession of cannabis under 2.5 grams and possession of drug paraphernalia.  Harker was transported to the Taylorville Police Department and released with a notice to appear. 

While on patrol, Taylorville Police Officer arrested Gerald A. Jr., Brown, 18, of Taylorville for driving a vehicle while his license were suspended.  Brown was released on notice to appear. 

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

2-19-13  1EMS

2-20-13  1 Automobile Accident, 4 EMS

2-21-13  1 Public Assist

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp is thanking the investigators who helped bring about a massive drug bust earlier this week.  The sheriff says without their help, they never could have arrested 19 accused drug dealers:

 [audio:sheriffdrugbust022113.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Sheriff specifically thanked Adam Ladage, a Pana police officer; Jeff Brown, an investigator for the Christian County Sheriff’s office; and Brett Shear, of the Illinois State Police.

It has been a busy week for the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.  President and CEO of the chamber Patty Hornbuckle, says The monthly Business After Hours took place Wednesday:

 [audio:pattyagbreakfasto22213.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says she attended an Ag Breakfast Thursday morning:

 [audio:pattyclbouqutbah022213.mp3]comment here[/audio]

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

If you like Chilli, Shelbyville is the place to be this weekend.  Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says there’s a chilli cookoff tomorrow (Saturday):

  [audio:tadchilli022213.mp3]comment here[/audio]

A monthly get together for Shelbyville area women is coming up in a few days. Mayhall says it’s just a few days away:

 [audio:tadgirlsniteout022213.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerc at 774-2221 if you have questions.

The Christian County YMCA will open its doors for a special event this weekend. Chris Weitenhiller of the YMCA says they have an open house coming up:

Central Illinois is digging out from 4 to 7 inches of snow, plus a thin coating of ice on top of the snow.

Temperatures this morning are hovering around the freezing mark and are expected to climb into the mid 30's during the day.

As of 7:30 this morning, the National Weather Service in Lincoln had lifted the winter weather advisory for most of the counties in the Regional Radio listening area.

Counties that remain in a Winter Weather Advisory until 10 o'clock this morning include Macon and Moultrie, and counties to the north and west.

The weather this weekend is expected to be quiet, with sunny skies and temperatures in the mid to upper 30's.

With winter storm warnings, watches and advisories issued  in significant portions of the Ameren Illinois service territory, the company is preparing to meet the challenge of possible storm related service outages.

In preparation for the storms, Ameren Illinois is taking the following actions:

• Weather conditions are being monitored for any changes that may impact service.
• All Ameren Illinois and contractor personnel have been placed on alert.
• Trucks will be fueled and loaded with supplies this afternoon so they are ready for immediate deployment Thursday morning.
• If necessary, Ameren Illinois is prepared to deploy the special Ameren Illinois Storm Trailers. These trailers are filled with materials field crews need to perform their service restoration work. The trailers can be moved to various staging sites to provide materials when outside crews come in to help with the restoration efforts and to provide a store of materials close to the area with the most damage.
• Service restoration work will be directed by Ameren Illinois Emergency Operations Center.

Customers who experience a power outage immediately should report it to Ameren Illinois by calling 1-800-755-5000 or by visiting IllinoisOutage.com. Customers with mobile devices can visit www..ameren.mobi. 

The National Weather Service in St. Louis issued the following statement at 1:40 Thursday afternoon, for Montgomery, Macoupin, Fayette, and Macon counties:

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT CST TONIGHT...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN ST LOUIS HAS ISSUED A WINTER
STORM WARNING FOR HEAVY SNOW AND SLEET WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL
MIDNIGHT CST TONIGHT. THE WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IS NO LONGER IN
EFFECT.

* TIMING...PRECIPITATION WILL CONTINUE THIS AFTERNOON AND BECOME
HEAVY AT TIMES DURING THE DAY BEFORE TAPERING OFF TONIGHT.
PRECIPITATION WILL BE MAINLY SNOW AND SLEET...MIXED AT TIMES
WITH FREEZING RAIN...AND TAPER OFF AS FREEZING DRIZZLE DURING
THE EVENING.

* ACCUMULATIONS...SNOW AND SLEET ACCUMULATION OF 2 TO 5
INCHES...ALONG WITH UP TO TWO TENTHS OF AN INCH OF ICE.

* WINDS...EAST 10 TO 20 MPH WITH GUSTS UP TO 30 MPH.

* IMPACTS...HEAVY SNOW...SLEET AND ICE ACCUMULATIONS WILL HAVE
SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS ON TRAVEL. ICE MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO TREES
AND POWER LINES.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS THAT A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF SNOW...
SLEET AND/OR ICE IS EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS ARE ALSO
POSSIBLE.

An area farmer recently came out a winner in a contest sponsored by Monsanto.  Scott Durbin, who farms in the Owaneco area, says he was able to win money for two of his favorite charities:

 [audio:durbinmonsanto022013.mp3]comment here[/audio]

This week CRIME STOPPERS is seeking information is regards to a fraud that is occurring in Christian County.

Over the past several weeks law enforcement agencies have received numerous reports of subjects receiving phone calls concerning debit cards.  The callers are claiming to be associated with First National Bank.  They are advising the victims that there is a problem with their debit cards and that they need the victim's debit card number in order to correct the issue.  This is a scam used to obtain debit card information.  Anyone receiving these calls should not give out their debit card information.  The public is advised to just hang up.  If you have any questions concerning your account, contact the institution directly.

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, 1-800-568-TIPS, or at our website ChristianCountyCrimeStoppers.or

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

Justin M. Eckart, 21, of Tower Hill, was arrested on February 19 on an original arest warrant for manufacturing,delivering cannabis. 

Brian K. Durbin, 29, of Pana, was arrrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for possession of cannabis. 

Roy L. Childers, 62, of Taylorville, was arrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for manufacturing, delivering of a controlled substance. 

Billy R. Davenport, 47, of Taylorville, was arrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for unlawful delivery of a controlled substance. 

Tricia L. Cox, 42, of Taylorille was arrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for methamphetamine precursor. 

Shawn M. Westbrook, 28, of Taylorville, was arrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for manufacturing, delivering of a controlled substance. 

Lyle J. Linn, 50, of Pana, was arrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for manufacturing,delivering of a controlled substance. 

Shane A. Mosley, 38, of Assumption, was arrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for methamphetamine precursor. 

Robert P. Swafford, 30, of Pana, was arrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for possession of a controlled substance. 

Matthew P. Bridgeman, 26, of Decatur, was arrested on an original arrest warrant on February 19 for manufacturing, delivering of a controlled substance. 

Caycee D. Halbrook, 42, of Pana was arrested on February 19 on an original arrest warrant for manufacturing, delivering cannabis. 

Christopher D Hayes, 27, of Taylorville, was arrested on February 19 pm a bond forfeiture warrant for driving with a suspended license. 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

Wednesday afternoon, Taylorville Police went to Fairview Trailer Court in search of 22 year old Robert Pullen.  There was a valid warrant for him.  Pullen was arrested, processed and taken to Christian County Correctional Center. 

Wednesday afternoon a sharp-eyed Taylorville Police Officer observed a male juvenile at East Main Cross and Walnut.  There was a valid juvenile warrant for the male juvenile.  He was arrested, processed and taken to the Christian County Correctional Center. 

Monday evening Taylorville Police Department were dispatched to W. Pauline Street in reference to a domestic disturbance.  Subsequent to investigating, 37 year old Lisa Harker of Taylorville was arrested for possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia.  Harker was taken to the Taylorville Police Department and released with a notice to appear. 

While on patrol, Taylorville Police Officer arrested 18 year old Gerald A. Jr., Brown of Taylorville for driving a vehicle while his license were suspended.  Brown was released on notice to appear. 

Carrie Mollohon is the Manager at Krieger’s in Taylorville.  She says although owner Mike Brotherton is relocating, the restaurant will continue to serve a varied menu as they have done for the last 5 years:

  [audio:mollohonkriegers022113.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Mollohon says Brotherton got the idea of bringing Krieger’s to Taylorville while on a trip:

 [audio:mollohonkriegers2022113.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Krieger’s is located in the Grand Plaza Shopping Center on Bidwell St. in Taylorville.

The Taylorville School Board recently voted to close South School in Taylorville.  While many people argued that the much older Memorial School should have been closed instead, Superintendent Dr. Greg Fursteneau says the board had no other choice:

  [audio:fursteneau022113.mp3]comment here[/audio]

South School will be closed at the end of this school year.

The Christian County Farm Bureau is sponsoring a trivia-themed fundraiser soon.  Melissa Herwig of the Farm Bureau says it’s coming up next month:

  [audio:herwigtrivia022113.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, that event will take place at Taylorville Memorial Hospital’s auditorium.

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

Luke T. Robinson, 49, of 1800 E. Spruce Street Springfield, was arrested on February 18 for burglary. 

Randy L. Vail, 19, of 1913 W. Vandeveer Taylorville, was arrested on February 18 for obstructing of justice, resisting a peace officer and criminal damage to property. 

Jacob Banning, 29, of 3237 E. Highway 24 Moberly, Missouri, was arrested on February 17 on a bond forfeiture warrant for retail theft.

Tia B. Paine, 33, of 609 N. Pine Taylorville, was arrested on February 16 for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. 

Austin. S. Perry, 23, of 606 Gandy Taylorville, was arrested on February 16 for domestic battery. 

On February 15, Joseph Broccardo reported to Christian County Sheriff's Department that person(s) had shot his 1987 Ford truck while it was parked on his property.  When Christian County Sheriff's officer arrived on scene, Joseph told him that the truck and grain bin were shot.  There were fire shots in the tailgate of the back window and into the front window.  There were also two shots in sthe grain bin which is in the front of the truck.  The truck was parked on the south side of a shed facing west.  No other damage was reported. 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

In the early morning hours on Saturday, February 16, Taylorville Police Department received a call from a male subject that stated multiple subjects were in his house and they were trying to attack him.  During the investigation, four subjects were arrested for City of Taylorville Violation of illegal possesssion/consumption of alcohol by a minor.  One male juvenile was located as a runaway and also charged with the same fine.  All were transported to Taylorville Police Department to be processed and released to parents.  Taylorville Police Officer returned to the residence and issued a disorderly house violation to home owner/suspect:  Ann M. Crawford.  All court dates have been set for Wednesday March 27th. 

 
A Taylorville Police Officer was on patrol and observed a white vehicle with a male driver traveling south on Houston Street.  A registration check showed that the male registered owner was a subject that he knew to be suspended.  Taylorville Police Officer made a stop on the vehicle in Fairview Trailer Court.  An officer made contact with the male driver and identified him as  the registered owner.  The male subject, Antwain J. Ward, 29, was arrested and transported to Taylorville Police Department for driving while license was suspended/revoked.  He were processed and released on a notice to appear.

At 2:18 am on February 17, Taylorville Police Officers were dispatched to the Round Table Cafe in reference to a fight in progress.  When they arrived, they arrested four male subjects for fighting in public.  Arrested were Phillip K. Fiaoni, 27, of Taylorville, Cory W. Fioni, 32, of Taylorville, Samuel A. Hughes, 34, of Taylorville, and Christopher L. Hughes, 37. of Taylorville.  The male subjects were transported to Taylorville Police Department for processing and released on a notices to appear. 

In the early morning hours on February 17, officers were out at the Round Table gathering evidence from a previous call.  While officers were in the restaurant, a male customer made a threatening comment to a female employee causing the female to be alarmed and disturbed.  The male subject Billy G. Durbin, 30, of Taylorville was arrested for disorderly conduct and transported to the Taylorville Polkice Department for processing.  He ws released on a notice to appear. 

Around 2:44 pm on February 2, Taylorville Police officers made a traffic stop on a vehicle at Second and Webster.  Subsequent to investigation, Samantha L. McPeek, 30, of Taylorville was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.  Kaylene S. Reber, 23, of Taylorville was arrested for possession of cannabis under 2.5 grams.  Randy L. Vail, 19, of Taylorville was arrested for resisting/obstruction, disarming an officer, and for criminal damage to state supported property. 

Taylorville Police Department officer was dispatched to a disturbance at 506 S. Houston Street.  Other Taylorville Police Officers arrived and made contact with several subjects.  Upon investigating the incident, it was discovered tht several underage subjects had been consuming alcohol at the residence.  The subjects were placed under arrest, transported to Taylorvilole Police Department, processed and released.  The owner of the residence and another male subject were arrested in regards to providing the alcohol.  The subjects were processed and released. 

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

2-15-13  1 EMS

2-16-13  6 EMS

2-17-13  1 EMS, 3 Public Assists, 1 Smoke Odor

2-19-13  1 Automobile Accident

Early Thursday morning, a number of Central Illinois drug suspects were arrested.  According to a press release from the Christian County Sheriff’s office, the arrests were the result of several months of investigation. 

Those arrested include:  62 year old Roy Childers of Taylorville; 47 year old Billy Davenport of Taylorville; 28 year old Shawn M. Westbrook of Taylorville; 29 year old Brian K. Durbin of Pana; 50 year old Lyle J. Lynn of Pana; 42 year old Tricia L. Cox of Taylorville; 30 year old Robert J. Swafford of Pana; 22 year old Justin M. Eckart of Pana; 42 year old Caycee D. Halbrook of Pana; 38 year old Shane A. Mosley of Pana; 30 year old Kevin E. Hix, who is incarcerated in Pinckneyville; 21 year old Justin M. Caudle, who is incarcerated in Hillsboro; and 26 year old Matthew P. Bridgeman of Decatur.  All were arrested on drug charges.

The Christian County Sheriff’s office, along with Taylorville and Pana police.  Also participating in the arrests was the Central Illinois Enforcement Group and the Illinois State police Meth Response team.

There is no greater pain than the loss of a child, whatever the age.  An organization dedicated to supporting families who are dealing with such a loss will meet at the end of the month.

The Compassionate Friends of Christian County will meet on Thursday February 28^th at 6:30 pm at Pana Junior High School, room 19.  The group is designed for parents, grandparents and older siblings who have lost a family member.

For information, call Chapter Leader Rosita Downing at 883-1657.

Litchfield, IL – Illinois State Police Captain Scott Compton, District 18 Commander, announced the result of a recent traffic stop that led to the seizure of $8,976.   

 On Friday a District 18 Trooper stopped a vehicle on Interstate 55 southbound at milepost 51 in Montgomery County for a traffic violation.  During the traffic stop the driver and passenger reportedly displayed signs of suspicious behavior, along with stating different stories as to the destination, duration, and purpose of their trip.    Upon further investigation, 3 large bundles of money were located on the passenger.   The passenger later revealed the money was intended for criminal activity.  The money, totaling $8,976, was seized.

 The Illinois State Police is working together with other agencies in an investigation involving

On Sunday at approximately 2:00 A.M. , 911 received a call that there was a unresponsive male in a home in the 700 block of South Maple in Pana.  Pana Ambulance and Pana EMS arrived on scene and requested the coroner to respond.  33 year old male Michael Zahradka of Pana was pronounced dead on scene.  Coroner Amy Winans has requested an autopsy.  An autopsy was held on Monday in Bloomington. Preliminary opinion of Mr. Zahradka cause of death is pending toxicology.  There is no evidence of trauma to the body.  Agencies  assisting with the investigation are Pana Police Department, Illinois State Police  Zone 4, and Illinois State Police Central Illinois Enforcement Group. 

Average retail gas prices in Illinois have risen 12.3 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.93 a gallon, according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 4,378 gas outlets in Illinois. This compares with the national average that has increased 11.9 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.68/g, according to gasoline price website GasBuddy.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Illinois during the past week, prices are 46.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 59.0 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 42.2 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 16.7 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.  The price of gas in Taylorville this morning is $3.69 per gallon.

The Taylorville High School Child Care Practicum class is planning its annual pre-school for three and four-year-olds.  The junior and senior students in this class will conduct a pre-school for a practical laboratory learning experience in working with preschool children.  According to Melissa Williams, instructor, the pre-school will be held for an eight-week period on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of each week, beginning Monday, March 11 and ending Friday, May 3.  Time each day will be from 8:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.

To be eligible, a child must be at least three years of age by March 11 and not older than four years of age by May 3.  Due to limited facilities, only ten children will be accepted.  Parents interested in enrolling a child are asked to call the high school office, 824-2268, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. anytime between today (February 19) through March 4. 

An application form will be sent to the parents to be completed and returned to the school.  Parents will be notified concerning acceptance of their children.

When the opportunity came to get into the furniture business, Don Kendal, a longtime businessman in the area, decided to jump right in and give it a try. Kendal is probably best known for his auto dealership and his restaurant, both located in Edinburg for many years. Neither business is there now, but Kendal is always looking for ways to increase tax revenues in town as well as give the town another option when it comes to shopping.

Country Peddler’s is Don’s newest venture and is at 101 E Washington in Edinburg. The shop presently carries small tools, gift items and a huge selection of knives including many collectibles. The big news for Country Peddler’s is the addition of new furniture.

Don is currently stocking furniture from Washington and Prime Design and actually went to the factories and toured their operations. He has vowed to only carry American made furniture.  Country Peddler’s, is at 101 E Washington in Edinburg. The shop is open Monday through Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm. You can call ahead at 217-827-3431.

The Taylorville School Board last week voted to close South School effective next school year.  Many have questioned the reasoning behind closing South School instead of the much older Memorial School structure.  Superintendent of Taylorville Schools Dr. Greg Fursteneau says there is solid logic behind the decision:

 [audio:fursteneausouthschool021913.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The closure comes as a cost cutting measure, as the State of Illinois is millions of dollars in arrears to the Taylorville School District.

The Taylorville Public Library has a special event coming up this week.  Head librarian Dorothy Siles says local author Carol Alexander will speak at the library Thursday:

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is planning next month’s membership drive.  Chamber President and CEO Patty Hornbuckle says they have set the bar high for this year’s goal:

 [audio:pattymembdrive021913.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If you’d like to suggest a business for possible inclusion, call the chamber at 824-4919.

U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) today announced the start of the 2013 Congressional Art Competition for high school students from the 13^th Congressional District of Illinois. The winner’s artwork will hang in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. for an entire year.

“I’m excited to host the 13th District’s Congressional Art Competition as a way to give young artists an opportunity to display their work and show off their artistic abilities,” said Davis. “It will give me great pride to point out the winning artwork to constituents and colleagues each time I’m walking to the Capitol.”

The Congressional Art Competition was created in 1982, and hundreds of thousands of high school students have participated throughout the years. One winner is chosen from each participating district, and the winner’s artwork is then sent to Washington, D.C. for display in the U.S. Capitol. Each winner also receives a roundtrip ticket to Washington, D.C. compliments of Southwest Airlines.

Entries for the competition are now being accepted and must be submitted to Rep. Davis’ district offices by Wednesday, April 3, 2013. The entry only needs to be framed if it is selected as the winner to be hung in the U..S. Capitol. The district offices are located at 2004 Fox Dr., in Champaign and 243 Water St., Suite 100, in Decatur.

For any additional questions or to obtain a copy of the guidelines and student release forms, please visit the official Congressional Art Competition Website or contact Jen White in Rep. Davis’ office at 217.403.4690 or jen.white@mail.house.gov

Tuesday night's Hathaway Homes issue brought out a crowd to the Taylorville City Council meeting.  (Staff photo)

It was a short but contentious Taylorville City Council meeting Tuesday night, due to the President’s Day holiday on Monday.

The Council’s vote on February 4th denying the Planning Commission’s recommendation on allowing Christian County Integrated Community Services, to build a subdivision of single family homes for low income residents behind the VFW on the city’s south side, to be called the Hathaway Homes subdivision, created the discussion for the night.

Officials with C-C-I-C-S indicated to the mayor after the February 4th vote, that there could be consequences to the Council’s “no” vote, because the agency had met all the criteria stated in city code, for the Council to approve the project.

Mayor Brotherton told Regional Radio News after the meeting, that following the conversation with C-C-I-C-S officials, he asked city attorney David Fines to draft a confidential memorandum to council members, outlining the potential risk of a law suit by the agency against the city to get the Hathaway Homes subdivision built.

While the information in that confidential memorandum wasn’t made public Tuesday night, Fines did outline to aldermen that the city could face potential litigation by C-C-I-C-S because they followed all the criteria in proposing the subdivision to the city, and yet were turned down by the Council.

Brotherton said the reason for the initial “no” vote, was that the council felt there was adequate subsidized housing already in Taylorville, and that bringing in additional low income residents would tax resources of both the city and the school district.

[audio:BrothertonaudioFeb1913.mp3]comment here[/audio]

A motion last night to bring the Hathaway Homes subdivision to the full council for another vote, died for the lack of a 2nd, ending the discussion.

Christian County Integrated Community Services executive director Jeff Copley had no comment following the Council’s decision.

The Taylorville City Council Tuesday night passed a number of motions that came from various committees. Aldermen OK’d a tuition reimbursement to assistant fire chief Mike Crews of just over 268-dollars; they OK’d advertising for summer help and a water service technician; and they approved 6 dates for the E-A-A Jabiru Chapter 1315 to hold their fly-in/drive-in breakfasts.

Taylorville alderman Tuesday night passed motions allowing bow turkey hunting at Lake Taylorville for this season only; OK’d the youth turkey hunt at the lake for April 6th and 7th; OK’d a motion to seek bids for sanitation services and cabin cleaning at Lake Taylorville; and bought a truck for the water department at a cost of just over 38-thousand dollars.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Tornadoes defeated the Matton Green Wave 62-44.

The National Weather Service issued this statement Wednesday afternoon:

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

Brandt A. Ehrhardt, 30, of 1015 W. England Taylorville, was arrested on February 15 for possession of methanphetamine. 

Nicole R. Oller, 32, of 7240 Wolfcreek Rd. Riverton, was arrested on Febrruary 14 on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

Ronnie E. Clay, 23, of 110 Elm Stree Kincaid, was arrested on February 14 on a bond forfeiture warrant for burglary. 

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

On February 2, Cari J. Lowrance, 31, of Stonington was traveling northbound on County Highway #7, approaching intersecting township road 1550 North.  Lowrance stated two dogs entered upon the roadway and she was unable to avoid striking the animals.  She received front end damage to her 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. 

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

2-14-13

3 EMS,1 Motor Vehicle Accident

2-15-13

1 Motor Vehicle Accident

You’ve heard it before: Farm Bureau means benefits.  Melissa Herwig of the Christian County Farm Bureau says it’s true:

One of the criticisms leveled at President Barack Obama has been that he does not engage the legislature enough.  Recently elected Congressman Rodney Davis of Taylorville says he’d like to change that:

The University of Illinois Extension has a big symposium coming up.. Peggy Hampton of the extension office says it’s just a few days away:

Healthy diet and exercise.  It seems simple enough, but it’s not always easy in the busy world in which we live.  Nutritionist Joyce Fikri with the St. Louis Dairy Council, says it can’t be emphasized enough:

 [audio:fikribaldiet021813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Lady Tornadoes fell to Champaign-Centennial 58-44.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to Meridian 62-42.

The staff at Pana Community Hospital is wearing red  to promote heart health awareness for the month of February.  February is American Heart Month which provides an opportunity to educate the public about heart disease and prevention. 

The American Heart Association developed the “Go Red” campaign to increase awareness of heart disease specifically in women. More women die of cardiovascular disease than from the next four causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer.  Heart disease is the #1 killer of women.  The “Go Red” campaign encourages people to wear red on Friday, February 1^st in support of the cause, but Pana Community Hospital employees have chosen to wear red every Friday in February. 

If you forgot about Valentine’s Day, you may still be able to treat your significant other to a good time. Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says an event tonight might be just the thing:

 [audio:tadsweetheart021513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Tad says there will be another chance to redeem yourself next week:

 [audio:tadred021513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce at 774-2221.

People have been commenting on the widely published photos of Congressman Rodney Davis talking with President Barack Obama after the State of the Union Address Tuesday night.  The Taylorville congressman tells Regional Radio News that the conversation was not about affairs of state:

The Taylorville School Board this week voted to close South School effective next school year.  Dr. Greg Fursteneau, Superintendent of Taylorville Schools, says they have considered this move for quite a while:

  [audio:fursteneausschool021513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

As a result of the closing, most of the other grade schools in the district will undergo restructuring.

It’ll be a busy time for the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce next week.  Chamber President and CEO Patty Hornbuckle says there are several things coming up:

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING: 

Tasha M. Tirpak, 24, of 701 W. Sherman Taylorville, was arrested on February 13 on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving on a suspended/revoked license.

Cody M. Hott, 21, of 310 S. Livergood Stonington, was arested on February 13 on a bond forfeiture warrant for no seat belt. 

Brooke D. Eakle, 19, of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for consumption of liquor. 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

On February 13, at 7:12 pm, Taylorville Police officer was call out to the Gas Light Motel in reference to Tasha Tirpak, 24, of Taylorville who was staying there.  Upon further investigation, Tirpak was located in a motel room.  Officers knew Tirpak had a warrant which was cnfirmed through the Law Enforcement Agency Data System.  She was arrested and transported to the Christian County Sheriff's Office. 

On February 13, Taylorville Police officer was dispatched to 825 E. Adams in reference to a male juvenile that was out of control.  After a short investigation, the male was placed under arrest for domestic battery. 

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Tornadoes fell to Chatham-Glenwood 60-28.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to Tolono Unity 56-47.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp would like to warn the citizens of Christian County of a phishing scam. Many residences have been receiving  automated phone calls  from an unavailable phone number. The recording state that it’s the First National Bank of Pana and that the bank is temporary suspending their debt card.

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS AND ACCIDENTS: 

James M. Steffers, 44, of 810 E. Bidwell in Taylorville, was arrested on February 11 on a bond forfeiture warrant for uspecified statute. 

Charles D. Lair, 43, of 909 E. Stevenson in Taylorville, was arrested on February 11 for driving on a revoked/suspended license, forgery and theft. 

Hailey N. Kelly, 25, of 702 N. Bruns Lane Apt M in Springfield, was arrested on February 11 on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Saul Mendoza, 29, of 623 W. Washington in Hoopeston, was arrested on February 12 on a bond forfeiture warrent for driving on a revoked license.

Michael E. Weber, 28, of 2316 N. Grandview Dr.in Decatur, was arrested on February 12 on a bond forfeiture warrant for burglary. 

Jerryn W. Turnbull, 23, of 1314 4th Street in Springfield, was arrested on February 12, on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving witha suspended license. 

Robert C. Stiltz, 23, of 400 S. Curtis Street in Edinburg, was arrested on February 12 for driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, driving with a suspended license, and possession of cannabis. 

Amanda D. McConnell, 37, of 302 N. Shumway in Taylorville, ws arrested on February 12 on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

Hunter J. Oliver, 20, of 620 W. Pauline in Taylorville, wa arrested on February 13 on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol/dugs, and a bnd forfeiture warrant for forgery. 

Kyle D. Showmaker, 21, of 809 West Market in Taylorville, was arrested on February 13 for domestic battery. 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

In the morning hours of February 12, Taylorville Police Department received information of a male throwing rocks at a vehicle in the area of East Main and Rt. 29.  Officers located the suspect in the area of 1620 East Main.  The suspect was arrested for public intoxication. 

On February 13 at 12:45 am, dispatch received a call from the home owner that suspect Hunter Oliver, was at the residence of 625 N. Cheney Street.  Upon arrival, officer could hear and see him through the window.  Oliver was arrested on two warrants.  One from Effingham County and one from Shelby County. 

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

On February 8, Shane W. Lucas, 22, of Kincaid stated he lost control of his 2007 Dodge Ram Pick-up due to ice and snow on the roadway.  Lucas slid off the roadway, and came to rest on the vehicle drivers side.  A different vehicle had lost control and ended up off the roadwaqy in the same spot two hours prior, due to slick driving conditions. 

On February 7, Lori A. Hendricks, 46, of Taylorville was traveling east on Spresser and slowed down to trun into Amity Foods.  Weston L. Ginger, 24, of Taylorville was following behind Hendricks and did not stop in time and struck Hendricks, causing damage.  Both vehicles were able to drive away from the scene. 

Lyndsay England, 18, of Taylorville, failed to yield at an intersection and struck the rear end of Phillip McKinney 2006 Mitshbishi Endeavor as it passed through the intersection.  McKinney vehicle spun  around where it came to a stop in the middle of the intersection.  The rear driver side tire on the McKinney vehicle was flat and the front bumper of Englands 2003 Dodge Stratus was tore off the vehicle. 

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS: 

 U.S. Rep. Rodney Davisof Taylorville has announced that he has opened a new district office located in downtown Decatur.

Davis’ office is located at 243 Water St., Suite # 100, Decatur, IL 62523 and is open from 8am – 5pm, Monday through Friday. The phone number for the new office is 217.791.6224. Constituents can also contact the office via e-mail by visiting www.rodneydavis.house.gov.

Davis is already operating offices in Champaign and Washington, D.C.

Another new business has come to Taylorville. M and M Auto Repair does all kinds of auto repairs and maintenance. Mike Reese, owner of M and M Auto repair, says he was inspired to open the business by an incident that occurred shortly after moving to Taylorville:

[audio:manm021413.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The “M and M” stands for Mike and Missy.

Tuesday night, Representative Rodney Davis of Taylorville attended his first State of the Union Address as a sitting congressman.  Davis says the President’s speech was better than he expected:

  [audio:davissotuspeech021413.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The newly elected congressman has been mentioned in relation to fundraising questions directed at Congressman Aaron Schock.  Davis, who has not been accused of any wrongdoing, says people should look up the story online:

 [audio:davisschock021413.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Davis, a former aide to Congressman John Shimkus, was elected to the 19^th district seat last November.

As heard on WMKR, Central A&M fell to Cowden-Herrick 63-55.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Lady Tornadoes defeated the Mattoon Lady Green Wave 68-55.

– On Monday  Congressman Rodney Davis of Taylorville and 16 Republican Colleagues sent a letter to Speaker John Boehner and Majority Leader Eric Cantor urging that the House of Representatives reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

The Violence Against Women Act was first signed into law in 1994 and subsequently reauthorized in 2000 and 2005. The legislation is a vital resource for communities and organizations that help victims of sexual abuse and violence. During the 112th Congress, both the House of Representatives and Senate passed their own versions of VAWA but no final legislation was presented for a vote in either chamber. Davis and his colleagues believe the legislation should be advanced quickly to ensure the programs that rely on VAWA not be put in jeopardy.

If a grilled steak sandwich sounds good to you, you’re in luck.  A fundraiser this weekend promises to provide a delicious lunch, and also help a good cause.  The Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation will benefit from the meal this weekend, with steaks provided by Wade’s Quality Meats.  Moulton Middle School and the local Moose Lodge have teamed up for the event.  The Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest is an organization that provides gifts to kids and teens who suffer from cancer. 

The lunch is available at Moulton Middle School at 1101 W. N. 6^th St. in Shelbyville this Saturday from 10am till 2pm.  Sandwiches are $5 each or 5 sandwiches for $20.

The city of Taylorville is on the hook for expenses relating to a plane crash that took place in Taylorville last summer.  The crash, which claimed the life of the pilot, is still under investigation by the FAA.  The accident caused a lot of damage to the west side neighborhood where it occurred.  Since the plane was dropping skydivers, Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the city is seeking to have the Mid-America parachute club kick in money for additional insurance coverage:

 [audio:mayorparachuteinsurance021313.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The plane nosedived into a backyard in Taylorville shortly after the skydivers were dropped off.

This time of year, many high school seniors begin thinking about how to finance college.  Melissa Herwig of the Christian County Farm Bureau says they may be able to help:

 [audio:herwigscholarship021313.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again that website address is christiancofb.com.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp was one of 73 sheriffs from around the state who attended the recent Illinois Sheriff’s Association mid-winter training conference.  Sheriffs there unanimously voted for a resolution emphasizing mental health cuts as a major cause of mass shootings.  Sheriff Kettelkamp says the emphasis on gun control is misguided:

[audio:sheriffmentalhealthcuts010813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

At the conference, sheriffs also voted unanimously in favor of a resolution not to support gun control legislation pending in the Illinois House.

THE TAYLORVILE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

In the evening hours of February 8, Taylorvile Police Officer conducted a traffic stop at the Tastee Treat parking lot for an expired registration.  Upon further investigation the passenger, Kylie Best, 18, of Taylorville, had a warrant for her arrest out of Shelby County.  Her warrant was confirmed through the Law Enforcement Agency Data System, and she was transported to the Christian County Correctional Center. 

Shortly after 5:00 pm on February 8, Taylorville Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle at Cherokee and Palmer for a headlight being out.  Subsequent to the stop, Kane Passini, 18, of Kincaid was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. 

In the early morning hours of February 9, Taylorville Police Officers were dispatched to 601 Arlington for a report of a domestic dispute.  911 radioed that the dispute was physical.  Offficers arrived and spoke to all persons involved.  After a brief investigation, the make was arrested for domestic battery. 

On February 10, Taylorville Police Department officers were asent to The Loading Zone in reference to David M. Droke, 21, of Taylorville sinning in a grey Dodge sitting in the passenger seat.  Droke was placed into custody to theChristian County Correctional Center inlieu of bond. 

The Christian County Sheriff's Office Report the Following:

24 year old Bradley S. Stimac, of 423 West Washington Edinburg, was arrested on February 10 for possession of cannabis, possession control, unlawful use of a weapon.

33 year old Nathan S. Roach, of 504 East Shirley Street Raymond, was arrested on February 10 on an original arrest warrant for possession/transportation. 

21 year old David M. Droke, of 902 East Oak Street Taylorville, was arrested on February 10 on a bond forfeiture warrant for knowingly damaging property. 

19 year old Joseph E. Stolte, of 217 Powers Street Blue Mound, was arrested on February 10 for consumption of liquor and for possession of drug paraphernalia. 

22 year old Carrington M. Walker, of 415 West Market Street Taylorville, was arrested on February 9 on a bond forfeiture warrant for consumption of liquor. 

40 year old Kelly M. Devantier, of 319 South Curtis Edinburg, was arrested on February 9 on an original arrest warrant for unspecified statute.

30 year old Caleb L. Walker, of 601 Arlington Taylorville was arrested on February 9 for domestic battery.

18 year old Kylie R. Best, of 1008 West Pauline Taylorville, was arrested on February 8 on a bond forfeiture warrant for burglary.

20 year old Zayne E. Troxell, of 1008 West Pauline Taylorville, was arrested on February 8 on a bond forfeiture warrant for burglary. 

26 year old Keffery L. Cothern, of 13 Franklin Street Pana, was arrested on February 8 on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol.

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

2-7-13 3 EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident

2-8-13  4 EMS

2-9-13  1EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident

2-10-13 3 EMS, 1 Public Assist

2-11-13 3 EMS, 1 Public Assist

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a series of burglaries that occurred in Taylorville.

Sometime during the overnight to early morning hours between Saturday February 9 and Sunday February 10, 2013, person or persons unknown made entry into several vehicles in the Northeast area of Taylorville.  Over a dozen unlocked vehicles were entered into and various items taken.  Crimestoppers would like to remind the public to make sure and secure your vehicle when left unattended.

 Please contact Crimestoppers if you any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons.  Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you do not have to give your name.  Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week. 

 You can contact Crimestoppers at 824-9100, at our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES  (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS INVESTIGATING A RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY WHICH OCCURRED IN THE DAYTIME HOURS ON FRIDAY IN MOUNT AUBURN TOWNSHIP.  THE DOOR WAS FORCED OPEN AT THE REAR OF THE RESIDENCE.  ONCE INSIDE VARIOUS ITEMS WERE STOLEN, INCLUDING THREE (3) HANDGUNS.

SHERIFF BRUCE KETTELKAMP AND THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS URGING ANYONE WITH INFORMATION ON THIS CRIME OR ANY OTHER CRIME TO CONTACT THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE AT 824-4961 OR CRIMESTOPPERS AT 1-800-568-TIPS OR 824-9100.

It’s still not too late to get involved in Big Brothers Big Sisters “Bowl for Kid’s Sake”.  Vanessa Wiseman of BBBS says it’s easy to do and fun:

The Tenaska project has new life since the election of Andy Manar as Illinois Senator.  Manar, along with the recently elected Sue Scherer have both expressed support for the project, and legislation is in the works.  Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the legislation could be filed soon:

 [audio:mayormanartenaska021213.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The project would bring hundreds of jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars to the area.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring its next Business After hours event next week.  President and CEO of the chamber Patty Hornbuckle says it’s hosted this month by A Classic Bouquet:

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp is supporting a resolution adopted by the Illinois Sheriff’s Association. The resolution mirrors one passed by the National Sheriffs’ Association .  Seventy-three Sheriffs were in attendance at the Conference held in Springfield.  The Sheriffs also voted unanimously not to support the proposed legislation House Bill 132 that bans certain weapons. 

Sheriffs from across the state of Illinois say it is their responsibility and duty to uphold the Constitution including the Second Amendment. They say law abiding citizens are not the cause of random acts of violence in our communities and that the focus should be primarily on the lack of mental health services in our country.

County jails continue to detain individuals who have been remanded to the Department of Human Service Mental Health Division for treatment.  On February 1^st there were sixty-six (66) of these individuals waiting for placement, some of which have been waiting for over four months.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Lady Tornadoes defeated Charleston with a score of 63-43.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville defeated St. Teresa with a score of 43-40.

The Taylorville School Board voted in regular session to close South school in Taylorville effective for the 2013 – 2014 school year. The restructuring is designed to help in budgeting for the upcoming school year. Additional restructuring will occur with the elementary schools becoming attendance centers. North school will be K, 1 and 2, Memorial school will be half day Preschool at risk and grades 3 and 4 and Stonington will remain as a K through 4 building, keeping the current boundaries. The expected savings in salaries alone is approximately $650,000.

The board also approved the elimination of French leaving Spanish as the only foreign language offered at THS. It was agreed that students that have already completed French 2 or 3, will have the opportunity to take French 3 or 4.

In other business, the board approved the awarding of a diploma to Quentin Christopher, who has fulfilled all the necessary requirements for graduation.

It was noted that the Taylorville High School journalism class achieved a 2^nd place award for best overall yearbook in division III in the state of Illinois. The class has been awarded year after year for their excellence in composing the yearbook.

The board heard a report from Technology Director Chris Kuntzman requesting the consideration of Taylorville High School Technology Bid specifications. It was approved, unanimously, to allow the considerations. The upgrades requested would prepare the school system for the next 5 to 10 years and would possibly pay for itself in 3 to 5 years.

The meeting concluded with Superintendant Fuerstenau’s report in which he invited all to attend the Midwinter Band concert to be held at 7 pm on Tuesday. He also noted that the ISAT testing would begin on March 4^th. The spring play, “Beauty and the Beast”, will be presented on March 22^nd and 23^rd.

The meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:45.

Newly elected U.S. Congressman Rodney Davis of Taylorville is being connected to an ethics probe about Congressman Aaron Schock. Davis is accused by the Office of Congressional Ethics of not cooperating in their investigation of Schock's fundraising activities on behalf of Illinois congressman Adam Kinzinger. Davis is not accused of wrongdoing, but was named as a contact between a super-PAC and Schock's fundraising efforts on behalf of Kinzinger. Davis isn't saying why he's not cooperating with the investigation.

The Christian County Sheriff’s office is reporting a deer car collision last week.19 year old  Kortney E. Walts  of Mount Auburn was heading east on county highway 2 around 625 East Rd., and a deer ran into the roadway.  She hit the deer, causing damage to the vehicle. 

A fun event for Christian County 4Hers is coming up.  Jodi Heberling of 4H says “Cupcake Mania” is next week:

Planning continues for the Taylorville Community Garden.  A Couple of meetings and a couple of seminars are coming up this month.  Bill Kerns says the Garden goodies can be accessed by anyone through their voucher program:

Senior Citizens are often targeted by scam artists.  Local public advocate Mac McGwire says there are several reasons for this, as demonstrated in the “Lotto Scam”:

 [audio:macmcgwirelottoscam021113.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McGwire says if you think you’ve been the victim of a scam, contact police.

There's relief for Illinois homeowners facing foreclosure. Governor Pat Quinn signed the law Friday, which he says helps hard-working people stay in their home when they're facing a tough situation.

[audio:rddforeclose1.mp3]comment here[/audio]


The new law creates a fast track process when foreclosed property has been abandoned. The new expedited process will ensure the foreclosure process is complete in about 100 days instead of nearly 500 days. The law also requires some banks to pay a fee, which will provide millions of dollars to help counsel those who are facing foreclosure.

[audio:rddForeclose2.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Governor Quinn says the state is helping people fight back against shady bankers who caused the housing crisis.

[audio:rddForeclose3.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Senator Jackie Collins says stability in the housing market will help restore the state's economy.

[audio:rddForeclose4.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Chicago resident Harriet Edmonds says she faced foreclosure nearly three years ago, and found help through the states Hardest Hit program.

Toby Keith is performing at the State Fair this year. Fair Managers Amy Bliefnick says tickets went on sale Saturday.

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING: 

Zachary C. Dionne, 28, of 202 S. Poplar Apt. 402 Pana, was arrested on February 7 on a bond forfeiture warrant for domestic battery. 

Robert C. Stiltz, 23, of 400 S. Curtis Street Edinburg, was arrested February 7 on a bond forfeiture warrant for operating an uninsured vehicle. 

As heard on WMKR, the Central A&M lady Raiders defeated Hume Shiloh 75-59.

A project many have written off is still alive thanks to some new blood in the legislature.  The Tenaska Energy Center has had a tough time getting approval so far, but Bart Ford of Tenaska says the project may now have another chance:

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

Senator Manar recently introduced a new Tenaska Bill.  The proposed Energy Center would bring hundreds of jobs and billions of dollars to Christian County.

Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp, Christian County, will be awarding one scholarship in the amount of $500. The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association announces that it will be awarding over $53,000 in college scholarships throughout the State of Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2013-2014 academic year.  The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, books and fees only.  The student must be enrolled full-time at a certified institution of higher learning within the State of Illinois.

  There will be no restriction on any applicant by reason of race, age, creed, color, sex or national origin.  The only limitations are as follows:

• applicants must be permanent Illinois residents
• scholarships must be utilized at institutions of higher learning within the State of Illinois
• students must be enrolled as a full-time student during the 2013-2014 school year (excluding summer session).

            Applications are now available at the Sheriff's Office or on the internet @www.ilsheriff.org.  Students must complete the application; answer the essay question and return all documentation to the Sheriff’s office by March 15, 2013. 

            For more information, please contact your local Sheriff’s office, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, high school advising center or college financial aid office.

 The Christian County Sheriff’s office reports an accident.  85 year old Doris J. Pinkston of Pana was traveling south on US Highway 51 and turned west onto township rd. 100 north.  Pinkston apparently turned wide and hit a vehicle with 30 year old Alisha J. Rosenberger of Pana, and two passengers in it.  Rosenberger stopped on 100 north rd., facing east at the intersection with highway 51.  Pinkston and Rosenberger both received damage to the driver sides of their vehicles. 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING 

In the early morning hours on February 7, Taylorville Police Department responded to a suspicious vehicle parked behind Blakley Heating & Cooling located at 700 E. Market Street.  Upon arriving, officers observed a person sitting in the driver’s seat asleep with his foot on the brake.  The vehicle was searched and the male subject, Logan P. Fleming, 20, of Taylorville was arrested for illegal possession/consumption by a minor and zero tolerance. 

On February 6, Taylorville Police made a traffic stop on a vehicle at Cherokee & Stevenson.  The male driver was identified as Jeffrey A. Burdzilauskas.  His information was ran through the Law Enforcement Agency Data System.  Dispatch advised he had a valid warrant and driver’s license was suspended.  He was placed under arrest and transported to the Taylorville Police Department for processing.  He was then transported to the Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond for the warrant. 

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

Lacey J. Austin, 23, of 610 E. Gandy Taylorville, was arrested on February 6 on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute, driving under the influence of alcohol and retail theft. 

Jeffery A. Burdzilauskas, 25, of 523 E. Vine Taylorville, was arrested on February 2 on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

2-4-13

1 Motor vehicle, 1 Carbon Monoxide Detector, 1 EMS

2-5-13

4 EMS, 1 Carbon Monoxide Detector, 1 Fire, 1 Illegal Burn

2-6-13

3 EMS

2-7-13

1 Personal Assist

A couple of fun events are coming up in Shelbyville. Tad Mayhall of the chamber says they will both take place this month:

Last week’s Friends of Fred Chilli fundraiser was a success, according to the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Patty Hornbuckle:

 [audio:pattychilliresults020813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The chamber sponsors more than one scholarship, and a deadline is coming up this afternoon:

 [audio:pattyscholarshipdeadline020813.mp3]comment here[/audio]

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

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville Tornadoes fell to the Southeast Spartans with a final score of 77-53

As heard on WRAN, the Shelbyville Rams beat the Warrensberg-Latham Cardinals with a final score of 49-40

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

40 year old Mandy S. Lavite, of 111 S. Shamerock Apt. 3 East Alton, was arrested on February 5 on an original arrest warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol.

35 year old Melvin M. Repsher, of 911 Jaycee Drive Taylorville, was arrested on February 5 for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

ARRESTS IN THE PANA AREA

Two Panan juveniles hav ebeen arrested on car theft charges. According to reports, 29-year-old Michael C. Davis of Pana called cops to complain of the theft of his 1998 Dodge Stratus. The juveniles, a 14-year-old and a 16-year-old, were arrested a short time later after a traffic stop in Georgia. Information on the incident has been forwarded to the States Attorney's Office.

Planning continues for the Taylorville Community Garden.  Two meetings are coming up this month.  Those who want to partake in the Garden’s bounty will need to have vouchers.  They can be earned in a variety of ways, including working in the garden or helping to distribute the harvest when it comes in.  They are also looking for the donation of gardening supplies and supplies, and vouchers can be obtained that way. 

The meetings will take place February 12^th and 21^st, both at 7pm at Davis Memorial Christian Church.  The church will also host a pair of seminars on growing a garden February 21^st at 6:30pm and February 28^th at 1:30pm.

Call Bill Kerns if you have questions at 824-8181.

A Central A and M High School Senior is no longer in the running for the Jeopardy Teen Tournament.  Jordan Villanueva of Moweaqua competed on the long running game show Monday.  Jordan came in third place.  According to the rules of the tournament, 4 of the highest scoring non-winners advance into the next round, but Jordan’s total came up short. 

The tournament began last week and continues this week.

While most of us think of corn when we think of ethanol, it’s not the only thing being considered for making the fuel.  According to Gary Letterly of the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension, a variety of other commodities are being considered:

 [audio:letterlymiscanthus020713.mp3]comment here[/audio]

You may not know it, but humans aren’t the only ones who can get the flu.  Dr. Emily Jewel of the Northside Veterinary Clinic in Taylorville says our four-legged friends can be vulnerable to it as well:

 [audio:jewelpetflu020613.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Northside Veterinary Clinic is located at 1100 N. Webster Street in Taylorville.

 The Christian County Sheriff’s office reports a couple of accidents. Thirty- nine year old Jill K. Burwitz, of Pawnee, was west bound on township roadd. 1550 N. and was approaching  township road 175 East and ran off the roadway, striking a concrete bridge support.  Burwitz then spun her 2007 Chevrolet Impal 180 degrees through the bridge and ended up facing east on the west side of the bridge.  She was issued a citation for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

On February 1, Christian County Sheriff's Department responded to a two vehicle accident on County Highway 1.  Thirty year old Joshua L. Becker of Taylorville was traveling southbound on County Highway 1, approximately 1/10 of a mile north of township rd 800.  Fifty-nine year old Billy D. Craig, of Taylorville was also traveling southbound on County Highway 1 and was behind Becker.  Becker slowed and began to turn left into a private drive.  Craig began to pass Becker and struck his 1990 GEO Prizm. 

If you are looking into financial aid, it might be a good idea to do it soon.  Scott Stallman of Lincoln Land Community College says taking care of your taxes may be the first step:

 [audio:stallmanearlyaid020613.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call Lincoln Land’s toll-free Taylorville number, 800-727-4161, for more info on financial aid.

As heard on groovy, the Taylorville Lady Tornadoes defeated Sacred-Heart Griffin with a score of 43-36.

As heard on WMRK, Central A&M defeated Arcola with a score of 55-32.

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

In the afternoon hours of February 4, Jared L. Hohenstein, 34 of Taylorville came to the Taylorville Police Department.  He stated he had a warrant and wanted to turn himself in.  He was transoirted to the Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond. 

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

A traffic accident occured on February 4 at the intersection of Springfield Rd. and Cheney Street.  Seventeen year old Austin W. Dowdy of Stonington was at the intersection and had a green arrow and was turning east onto Springfield Rd., when 18 year old McKenna D. Hutson of Taylorville was traveling west on Springfield Rd and disobeyed the red light and struck Dowdy's 2003 Chevrolet Silverado in the rear drivers side panel of the vehicle.  Dowdy's vehicle spun around and came to rest facing the north and Hutson's 2002 Chevrolet Tracer facing south.  Both drivers were taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital. 

On February 3 at 11:52 am, officers were sent to West Main Cross & Webster in reference to a two vehicle acident.  Upon arrival, 17 year old Mollie Kress of Taylorville was in the intersection blocking the roadway, and 24 year old Mallory DeClerk of Taylorville had moved to a parking lot.  Kress stated she was stoppped at the stop sign and it was her turn to go.  She stated she proceeeded West on Main Cross and was struck by DeClerk.  Declerk stated there were three cars stopped at the 4 way stop and she proceeded the same time as Kress did and struck her 2010 Dodge Avenger.  Declerk said when she started to go, she looked up and it was too late and she struck Kress vehicle.  Kress was approximately 3/4 of the way thru the intersection when she was struck by DeClerk who was driving a 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix.  Declerk was issued a citation for failure to stop/yield at an intersection.  Kress vehicle was towed from the scene. 

The Christian County Senior Citizen’s Center in Taylorville takes a number of trips to various locations every year, and they have a special excursion coming up.  Jerry Mahr of the Senior Center says they’ll be taking a 3 day trip to a Mississippi casino:

 [audio:srcit020613.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, the trip is in April.  Call the Senior Center at 824-4263 for more information.

Claire Nolan, a senior at Taylorville High School, will be signing a national letter of intent to attend the University of Iowa on National Signing Day, February 6, in the Taylorville West Gym lobby at 2:45 p.m.

Claire is a three-time state qualifier (2010 – 2012) in the Shot Put (finishing 3rd in 2010, 7th in 2011, and 3rd in 2012), as well as a qualifier in 2012 in the discus where she finished 23rd at the state meet. She is also a two-time Illinois Prep Top Times Indoor Qualifier (the unofficial indoor state meet) finishing 3rd in 2010, and 4th in 2012. She has career personal records of 44’ 4” Shot Put and 114’ 0” Discus, both outdoor school records. Claire also holds the indoor school record in the shot put 41’ 4”. Additionally, Claire is the reigning Central State Eight champion in the shot put.

Claire earned Academic All-Central State Eight status in 2011 and 2012. Claire ranks in the top 20% of her class and intends to major in nursing. Claire is the daughter of Mike Nolan and Andrea Nolan of Taylorville.

A Central A and M Student appears on television’s Jeopardy this week.  Jordan Villenueva is on the game show’s “Teen Tournamant”.  Villenueva says he was surprised to learn that he’d been selected:

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

Jordan says the selection process was lengthy:

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

Jordan says a lot depends on the categories.  He says he has subjects in which he excels:

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

Jordan, a high school senior, came in third place in his first appearance. He may not be done, however, as high scorers may advance to the next round.

The weather is too cold for many gardening activities so the next best thing is to learn about gardening.  Your chance to do that is coming up this month with the University of Illinois Extension’s “Natural Landscapes” symposium.  One of the speakers at the event will be Gwen Podeschi of Taylorville, who will discuss blueberries:

[audio:podeschiseminar011513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, the symposium will be Saturday February 23 at Lincoln Land’s Litchfield campus.  Advance registration is $10.

Keynote speaker will be Andrea Faber Taylor, who will discuss creating greenspaces.                                                                     

The Illinois pension problem gets a lot of the blame for dragging down the Illinois economy.  Despite urging from the Governor and pressure from the public, the legislature has yet to seriously address the problem.  Representative Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville says it’s a complex issue:

 [audio:rosenthalpension020513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Illinois pension shortfall is approaching $100 billion.   

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

On February 2, at 1:20 am, Taylorville Police Officer observed four male subjects in the parking lot of the Loading Zone that appeared to be having an altercation.  One male subject identified as Michael A. Blake, 24, of Palmer was removed from the bar and was causing a disturbance in the parking lot.  He was placed under arrest for Public Intoxication, and transported to the Taylorville Police Department for processing and released on a notice to appear. 

While on patrol, a Taylorville Police officer noticed a silver vehicle traveling east on Park Street.  The vehicle did not have a registration sticker on the back license plate.  TPD officer made the stop on the vehicle on McAdam Drive and Park Street.  Upon running the female driver license through the Law Enforcement Agency Data System, Stephanie J. Ashlock, 20, of Taylorville had a valid warrant out of Christian County.  She was placed under arrest and transported to the Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond. 

On February 3, at 3:50 pm, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle in the 400 block of East Main Cross.  Subsequent to the stop, Andrea K. Beierle, 21, of Taylorville was arrested for a Macon County FTA warrant and driving while license suspended. 

On January 28, 67 year old Fran A. Farris, of Findlay, was traveling west on Spresser Street approaching the intersection at Webster Street in her 2012 Dodge Caliber.  As, 19 year old Rigberto A Carmona , of Taylorville was attempting to turn north in his 2003 Mitshbishi Eclipse from Spresser onto Webster Street.  Rigberto A. Carmona failed to yield to Farris vehicle, causing a collision. 

On February 2, at 8:51 am, William Cook reported that a truck pulling a trailor backed up to his driveway and struck his garage.  Cook stated the truck is parked across the street from his residence.  Taylorville Police Department officer made contact with the driver, 33 year old Dustin L. Clark, of Blue Mound.  He stated he did not know he hit the neighbors garage.  He said he heard something but thought it was his trailer tongue dragging the pavement.  Cook had damage to the garage door jam and the garage door.  Clark received no damage. 

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

44 year old Laura Ann Martin, of 12 South Shore Drive in Decatur, was arrested on February 3 on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute. 

22 year old Steven Scott Durbin, of 801 East Poplar Street Taylorville, was arrested on February 1 for domestic battery. 

32 year old Jerry Allan Nation, of 307 Elm Street Stonington, was arrested on February 1 on a bond forfeiture warrant for knowingly damaging property. 

39 year old Amy Carol Tinsley, of 220 Fairway Drive Apt. 8, Chatham, was arrested on February 3 for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

47 year old Jerry Lee Osborne, of 280 West Center Street, Mount Auburn, was arrested on February 3 for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. 

21 year old Logan Dale Fleming, of 802 East Market, Taylorville, was arrested on February 1 on a bond forfeiture warrant for purchase/possession of liquor. 

22 year old Andrea Kaye Beieirle, of 1025 East Franklin Street, Taylorville, was arrested on February 3 on a bond forfeiture warrant for unspecified statute.

Here is the Christian County Crimestoppers Crime of the Week.

Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to burglary that occurred in Taylorville.

Sometime around 2:15 pm on Sunday February 3, , someone made entry into the back parking lot of the old Pepsi Building in Taylorville, at 718 Springfield Road.  The intruder took 40 blower motors that were used in vending machines.  The subject was driving a gold extended cab Ford pick-up with dual wheels.   It may be a late 90's early 2000 model.  The total dollar amount of items taken is unknown at this time. 

Please contact Crimestoppers if you any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons.  Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you do not have to give your name.  Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week. 

 You can contact Crimestoppers at 824-9100, at our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES  (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTED THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

2-1-13  1 EMS, 1 Public Assis 

2-2-13  1 Automatic Alarm, 1 EMS, 1 Public Assist

2-4-13  1 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm

Some 20 members of the Christian County Leadership Program, toured various media facilities in Christian County this (Tuesday) afternoon.  One of the locations they toured were the Miller Media Group studios on West Park Street in Taylorville.

Company president Randal J. Miller gave a tour of the 36-hundred square foot radio center, which Miller Media purchased and moved into, in March of 2000.

Patty Hornbuckle, president and C-E-O of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, organized today’s (Tuesday’s) media tour, and explained why the group toured some of the county’s media facilities.

[audio:Hornbucklecut1Feb513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says the Christian County Leadership Program, was started by some community leaders 10 years ago.

[audio:Hornbucklecut2Feb513.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Participants in this year’s Christian County Leadership Program come from varied backgrounds such as banking, manufacturing, the medical field, and even the ministry.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held their monthly business meeting, at the weekly lunchon at noon today (Tuesday) at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium.

Kiwanis members reviewed various projects, all with the goal of helping the children of the community and the world.

Club members are collecting non-perishable food during their meetings each week, with the food going to the Taylorville Food Pantry.

The Club’s annual pancake and sausage breakfast takes place Saturday, March 2nd at the Taylorville High School Cafeteria.

The club will again sponsor the bounce house at the Taylorville Main Street “Easter on the Square” taking place Saturday, March 30th on the Taylorville square. Some 300 children participated in the event last year.

A spring car seat day, and clean up day at Kiwanis Park, are 2 other events planned by the club.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a worldwide organization whose goal is to help children and youth. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium. Find out more by contacting club president Gina Princavelli at U-S Bank.

As heard on WTIM, the Lady Taylorville Tornadoes fell to Effingham with a score of 49-45.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to Central A&M with a score of 62-58.

On January 31, 2013 at approximately 1:10 P.M. a traffic stop made by a Christian County Sheriff’s Deputy on Illinois Route 51, two miles north of Assumption, resulted in the discovery of items used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine and a partial methamphetamine lab.

 The ensuing investigation conducted by the Christian Co. Sheriff’s Office, Illinois State Police Meth Response Team and the Central Illinois Enforcement Group, CIEG (a drug enforcement task force comprised of investigators from Jacksonville, Pana, and Springfield Police Departments and the Christian, Morgan, and Sangamon County Sheriff’s Offices), resulted in the discovery of a methamphetamine manufacturing lab located in a residence in Assumption, IL.

The investigation led to the arrest of:

(From top to bottom) Jonathon G. Hamilton, age 29, of Pana, IL., Edgar S. Boone, age 61,of Pana, IL, and Timothy M. West, age 21, of Assumption, IL.  for Unlawful Participation  in Methamphetamine Production, a Class X felony

All three men are being held at the Christian County Correctional Center.

The cooperative efforts of the above listed agencies, along with the Assumption, and Moweaqua Police Departments and the Decatur Police Dept. K-9 unit, resulted in the removal of a methamphetamine manufacturing operation in Christian County.  

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

Robin Lee Keen, 46, of 218 Sarah Street in Assumption, was arrested on January 31st on an original arrest warrant for unspecified statute.

Zachary Michael King, 20, of 3343 Ivy Wood Court, Decatur, was arrested on January 31st on a bond forfeiture warrant for possession of cannabis. 

Edgar Straus Boone, 61, of Pana, was arrested on February 1st for aggravated methamphetamine manufacturing, methamphetamine precursor. 

Jonathon Glen Hamilton, 30, of Pana, was arrested on February 1st for aggravated methamphetamine manufacturing, methamphetamine precursor, and methamphetamine manufacturing. 

Timothy Mark West, 22, of 114 West First Street in Assumption, was arrested on February 1st for aggravated methamphetamine manufacturing, methamphetamine precursor, and use of vehicle/structure. 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT THE FOLLOWING:

In the early morning hours of February 1, Taylorville Police Department received a complaint of loud noise coming from the residence at 506 South Houston.  Officiers have responded to this residence seven times in reference to noise complaints since November 18th.  The renter of the apartment Craig A. West, was issued a notice to appear for a local ordinance violoation of disorderly house. 

 The Pana Police Department Report the Following:

Pana police made an arrest early Friday morning. According to reports, cops pulled over 28 year old Bradley A. Dunn of Pana. He was arrested on a warrant out of the Shelby County. Dunn was also cited for driving with a suspended license. Dunn was released after posting $375 cash bond.

21-year-old David W. Moore Jr. was arrested by Pana Police Thursday afternoon in Pana on a Shelby County warrant for probation violation. Moore was taken to the Shelby County Jail and held there in lieu of bond.

The Pana Chamber of commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony last Wednesday for its newest member, Fat Moe’s. Located at the corner of Poplar and 4^th, Fat Moe’s has a large, diverse menu of Chicago style hotdogs and more. The opening follows Fat Moe’s recent opening in Taylorville at the corner of Cheney and Spresser.

The Pana Police Department is investigating a car theft from last week. According to police report, the vehicle was stolen sometime around 11pm last Wednesday. The stolen vehicle was found in less than an hour's time, in a farm field. The vehicle was burning. The State Fire Marshall's office is assisting the investigation.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is supporting an effort to increase Christian County sales taxes by 1%. The revenue would be used to help make up for State funding, which has not been forthcoming in recent years .Chamber President and CEO Patty Hornbuckle says it just makes sense:

 [audio:pattysalestax020413.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The referendum will come up in the April elections.

The medical field is one of America’s fastest growing areas of employment. Scott Stallman of Lincoln Land Community College says they get an early start offering education in those fields with the upcoming Scrubs Program.

Times change and the University of Illinois cooperative Extension Service changes with it. Gary Letterly, who has been with the Extension for more than two decades, says the job has changed over the years:

 [audio:letterly020413.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Gary Letterly began his career with the Extension in 1990.

The University of Illinois Extension will be offering A Gardeners Symposium called Natural Landscapes. The symposium will be held February 23, 2013 from 8am to 12pm. You can register at the Arts and Technology building at Lincoln Land Community College in Litchfield from 8:15-8:30am, or you can register online at www.web.extension.illinois.edu/cjmm/. There is an advanced registration fee of $10.

Taylorville aldermen met for just over 40 minutes Monday night, and acted on several items of city business.

The Council welcomed members of Taylorville Girl Scout Brownie Troop 3011 led by Jamie Adams, who earned a “Fun Patch” for attending Monday night’s meeting. The troop was also granted permission to sell Girl Scout cookies in the city parking lot at West Main Cross and North Webster, on Saturday, February 23rd from 9 in the morning until 2 in the afternoon.

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Joe Hauser of the Taylorville Planning and Zoning Commission, presented the Taylorville City Council with 2 recommendations which came from a meeting of the commission in City Hall earlier in the evening. The Commission recommended that the City Council reject a request from Jim Hanely to approve re-zoning property he’s considering to buy at 712 East Esther, from Residential-One to Residential-2. Hauser said state law prohibits what’s called spot zoning, and the property in question was surrounded by property that was zoned R-1. The Council upheld the Commission’s rejection of the rezoning.

The 2nd piece of property the Commission considered in their meeting Monday night, was at 208 East Pleasant. It was another piece of property Hanely is considering to buy to build a 6-unit apartment complex. The Commission decided that since it was surrounded by other property zoned Residential-2, and the property in question was zoned Residential-1, that the request to re-zone be allowed. That recommendation was also OK’d by the Taylorville City Council.

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The Taylorville City Council made quick action of several ordinances at their Monday night meeting. The Council unanimously passed 3 ordinances. The first was implementing a fee for the Mid-America Sport Parachute Club to pay for additional liability insurance coverage thru the city’s insurance policy. The 2nd made some corrections to the city’s recent electric power aggregation ordinance on its plan of operation and governance, and the 3rd amended the lake lot and campsite fees, calling for a lake lot rental fee for the season of 450-dollars with a 300-dollar security deposit. For camp sites, the rental fee for the season is 700-dollars, or 100-dollars per month, with a 300-dollar security deposit.

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Taylorville aldermen Monday night passed several motions brought to the full Council from the Street and Sewer Committee. The motions included allowing the Red Bland Little League to hold their annual parade April 20th, adding signage on the square to accommodate the Farmers’ Market, OK’ing a pay request for some 27-thousand dollars on the storm sewer project, and obtaining bids or budgeting for several other items in the street department.

Alderman Martin Vota voted against 3 motions to spend more money in the street department for further equipment purchases or projects. He told Regional Radio News after the meeting that he’s concerned that it’s not known where the money will come from to pay for these proposed purchases and projects.

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The motions all passed the Taylorville Council Monday night.

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The City of Taylorville has spent some 9-million dollars of its 10-million dollar bonding for separation of storm sewer and sanitary sewer. Street and sewer committee chair Earl Walters says the project is coming along nicely, and the city expects to complete the work with the remaining one-million dollars in coming months.

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Several members of the Council expressed a desire to spend future monies to improve sewers and streets, in other wards in the future, since the work now being done is in Ward 2.

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The Christian County Mobile Food Pantry will visit Taylorville Saturday.  The food giveaway will be at Taylorville High School at 10:00 Saturday morning rain or shine.  Participants are advised to bring an empty box or laundry basket to carry their goods home in. The Mobile Food Pantry visit is made possible by the Central Illinois Foodbank, Taylorville High School students, and by contributions from an unnamed citizen.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce has its Friends of Fred Fundraiser Friday night. The Chamber is selling quarts of the famous Chillifest Chilli to raise money for a scholarship. President and CEO of the chamber Patty Hornbuckle says they'll sell the brew for $10 a quart:

Shelby County State's attorney Gina Vonderheide has announced several sentences handed down recently to criminal defendants.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp issues a monthly newsletter. His most recent edition crunches numbers for the department's budget. The Sheriff says people might eb surprised at how much it costs to run a jail:

The City of Shelbyville has secured a monetary grant. Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says the money is substantial:

A standing room only crowd of several hundred Christian County residents, packed the Taylorville VFW Hall Wednesday night, to hear a presentation by the committee calling themselves the “Citizens for Christian County Public Schools.” The committee’s goal is to pass a one-percent sales tax countywide, for school facility purposes, on April 9th.

The tax would generate some 2-point-2 million dollars a year for county schools beginning in 2014. The one-percent sales tax would not apply to drugs, groceries, cars, trucks, or A-T-V’s, boats, R-V’s, mobile homes, farm equipment, parts or inputs sold inside of Christian County.

Taylorville Superintendent Doctor Gregg Fuerstenau, one of the presenters for the evening, told Regional Radio News he was very pleased with the huge crowd.

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Pana School Superintendent Doctor David Lett said Wednesday night’s turnout was impressive.

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The issue will be one of the many items on the April 9th ballot in Christian County.

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville boys fell to Sacred-Heart Griffin with a score of 66-56.

As heard on WRAN, Shelbyville fell to Tolono-Unity with a score of 56-44.