Local News

Uetenski: Elliptigo Offers Unique Workout

 width=

If you are looking to start or continue a workout routine but want to try something different from conventional methods, the Body Quest Store in Springfield may have a product of interest to you. Owner Dave Utinske tells Regional Radio News about the Elliptigo:

[audio:uetenskielliptigo033114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Body Quest is located at 3120 Montvale Drive in Springfield. For more information, call 787-9930.

 width=

Family Fun Night at TPL

An event that should be fun for the whole family is coming up this week at the Taylorville Public Library.  In fact, Head Librarian Dorothy Siles says the event is called "Family Fun Night":

[audio:sileslibraryfamilyfun032514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again Family Fun Night at the Taylorville Public Library is Thursday, April 3rd.  The Library is at 121 W. Vine St. in Taylorville.

Deadline for Obamacare Today; Davis Calls for Change

With the deadline to sign up for Obamacare here, Republican Congressman Rodney Davis is calling for changes. The Taylorville Representative says there are alternatives to the President’s plan:

[audio:davisrepubhealthcare010214.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The deadline for many Americans to sign up for Obamacare is midnight tonight.

Crosby scores twice as Penguins beat Blackhawks

Pittsburgh,  PA  (SportsNetwork.com) -  Sidney Crosby had  two goals and Marc- 
Andre  Fleury  stopped 25 shots  to help the Pittsburgh  Penguins to a 4-1 win 
over the Chicago Blackhawks. 

James  Neal and Lee Stempniak also scored for the Penguins, who have won their 
past  two  to eclipse the  100-point mark  for a sixth  time in the past eight 
season. 

"They  put  a lot of  pressure on us  and I thought we  were able to handle it 
well,"  said  Crosby. "They started to  take a few  more risks later on and we 
were able to capitalize." 

Pittsburgh  sits comfortably  atop the Metropolitan Division, but still trails 
Boston by nine points for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. 

Sheldon  Brookbank  scored and  Corey Crawford stopped  23-of-26 shots for the 
Blackhawks,   who  have  dropped  four  of  five  and  are  one  point  behind 
Colorado for second place in the Central Division. 

"The way we've been playing lately is frustrating for all of us," said Chicago 
forward  Patrick Sharps. "But we're not trying to lay blame on any one person, 
we're just trying to figure a way to get out of it." 

Chicago  also took a blow as center Jonathan Toews left the game in the second 
period  with  an upper-body injury, appearing  to hurt his left shoulder after 
being driven into the boards by Brooks Orpik. 

Pittsburgh  scored halfway  through the first period on a 2-on-1 break as Neal 
opted to shoot and his wrister from the left wing sailed past Crawford. 

It  took  just 21  seconds for the  Pens to increase  their lead, as Stempniak 
took a pass at the right point and skated down to the circle before snapping a 
shot in for his 11th of the year. 

Chicago  got the only  goal of the second period, as Brookbank's shot from the 
left point made its way past Fleury. 

Crosby,  though, gave the Pens some insurance with 4:51 to play when his quick 
shot  from the  left circle on a  2-on-1 found the right corner, and he sealed 
the victory with the net empty and 1:16 showing on the clock. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  two times over the past eight seasons that Pittsburgh has not reached 100 
points  was a  99-point campaign  in 2008-09,  and a  72-point effort  in last 
year's  strike-shortened  season ...  Chicago hosts  Minnesota on Thursday ... 
Pittsburgh plays host to Carolina on Tuesday. 

Augustin, Bulls down Celtics

Boston,  MA (SportsNetwork.com) - D.J. Augustin scored a career-high 33 points 
off  the bench and  the Chicago Bulls held off the Boston Celtics, 107-102, on 
Sunday night. 

"I  have always thought  of myself as a pretty good basketball player. I think 
everyone  on this  level is  pretty  good or  they  wouldn't be  in the  NBA," 
Augustin said. 

Augustin  finished 10-of-14 from  the floor and sunk all 10 of his foul shots, 
while  Joakim  Noah tallied 13  points, 13 assists  and eight rebounds for the 
Bulls, who have won three of their last four games. 

Jimmy Butler netted 15 points and Carlos Boozer added 14 points and six boards 
in the victory. 

Rajon  Rondo supplied 17 points and 11 assists and Jared Sullinger provided 16 
points and 10 rebounds for Boston, which has dropped four in a row and nine of 
its last 10. 

"We're just not closing the games the right way," Rondo said. 

Taj Gibson's dunk with 3:43 left staked Chicago to a 95-90 advantage, but Jeff 
Green knocked down a pair of triples as part of a 6-1 Celtics spurt to tie the 
game at 96-96 with 2:13 on the clock. 

Augustin then put in the next seven points for the Bulls to seal the outcome. 

He  nailed a  pull-up left wing 3-pointer  to put Chicago back in front before 
hitting  four straight free throws following back-to-back Boston turnovers for 
a 103-96 margin with 30.4 ticks remaining. 

Earlier,  the Celtics  held a 26-25 lead  after a quarter of play, but Chicago 
outscored  them  26-24 in  the second and  headed into the  break with a 51-50 
edge. 

The Bulls took a 78-77 spread into the fourth. 

                                   Game Notes 

Chicago  shot 52.9  percent (37-of-70) from the floor and 50 percent (8-of-16) 
from beyond the arc ... Boston registered 20 points off 16 Bulls turnovers ... 
There were 19 ties and 16 lead changes. 

Twins, White Sox kick off season on the South Side

(SportsNetwork.com) - Everyone has high hopes on Opening Day right? 

That probably applies to the Chicago White Sox and Minnesota Twins, as they 
kick off the 2014 campaign with the start of a three-game series at 
U.S.Cellular Field on Monday. 

After a disastrous 2013 campaign in which the White Sox produced just 63 wins 
and finished last in the American League Central, however, expectations are 
not meteoric for a club hovering on the cusp of average. 

Chicago probably thought 2013 was going to be a promising one after coming up 
short on a playoff bid the previous season, when the club recorded an 85-77 
record and finished second in the division. 

The White Sox made some additions this offseason in landing infielders Jose 
Abreu and Matt Davidson, and outfielder Adam Eaton. Abreu has a ton of 
pressure on his young shoulders and will replace ChiSox legend Paul Konerko as 
the everyday first baseman. The Cuban phenom has good size, strength and will 
bring much-needed pop to the lineup. 

Davidson and Eaton join a lineup that already features Alexei Ramirez, Gordon 
Beckham and streaky designated hitter Adam Dunn. Ramirez led the Pale Hose 
with a .284 average last season, while Dunn was tops in home runs (34) and 
runs batted in (86). Alexjandro De Aza was right behind them with a .264 
average, 17 homers and 62 RBI. 

Chicago finished at the bottom in the AL last season with 598 runs, so more 
production is needed to stay relevant in the Central. 

Pitching is solid for the White Sox and having left-hander Chris Sale at the 
top of the rotation doesn't hurt. He will be on the hill on Opening Day after 
he led the team in wins (11), ERA (3.07) and strikeouts (226) in 2013, but had 
14 losses in 30 starts. 

He went 17-8 as a full-time starter in 2012 and has averaged at least nine 
strikeouts per nine innings in all four of his major league seasons. 

"I'm ready to take the ball whenever they hand it to me," Sale said during an 
interview with MLB.com. "It's not for me to say what I am or who I am. I'll 
take the ball every fifth day, leave everything I have on the field and try to 
help us get the win." 

Sale will be opposed by Minnesota's big offseason acquisition, Ricky Nolasco, 
who will be making his third straight Opening Day start. Nolasco signed the 
richest free agent deal in Twins' history this winter, agreeing to a 4-year, 
$49 million deal. 

Nolasco was 13-11 with a 3.70 ERA in 34 games (33 starts) combined last season 
for Miami and the Los Angeles Dodgers. 

"He just knows what he's doing," Minnesota manager Ron Gardenhire said of 
Nolasco. "He goes about his business pretty good. He's pretty tough out there 
on the mound. You can tell he doesn't like to (mess) around too awful much. He 
goes right at them, uses his pitches, knows how to add and subtract, all those 
things that you hope when you brought him over here." 

The Twins have finished no better than fourth in the AL Central the last three 
years after winning the division six times in the previous nine seasons. 

Again, not much is expected for the Twins in 2014, but they should win more 
than 66 games, the exact total in each of the previous two years. 

"We've gotten beaten up for three years now," said Gardenhire, who is two wins 
shy of 1,000 with the organization. "You know you need pitching. We're trying 
to get pitching. We've done a pretty good job at this point. We're looking at 
position players. We said we were going to get better, and that's our goal is 
to get better." 

In addition to Nolasco, the Twins also added righty Phil Hughes. Meanwhile, 
offensively, the Twins added a few bats in outfielder Jason Kubel and catcher 
Kurt Suzuki. 

Suzuki behind the plate made the choice to send All-Star Joe Mauer to first 
base that much easier. 

Minnesota was 11-8 last season versus the White Sox. 

Pirates welcome Cubs in Steel City opener

(SportsNetwork.com) -  The Pittsburgh Pirates ended a string of 20 straight 
losing seasons by posting 92 wins, capturing one of the two National League 
wild card spots and advancing to the Divisional playoff round a season ago. 

Now they'll try to carry that success into this season, as the Pirates begin 
the 2014 campaign with the opener of a three-game set against the Chicago Cubs 
at PNC Park. 

If the two seasons prior to their first winning campaign since Barry Bonds was 
roaming the outfield are any indication, Pittsburgh is definitely on the 
upswing. In 2011, Pittsburgh finished with 72 wins, which was 15 better than 
the previous year, and the team pushed the .500 mark in 2012, ending with 79 
wins. 

The Pirates finished 94-68 a year ago and are now shooting for back-to-back 
postseason appearances for the first time since 1992-'93. 

"(Last) spring, it was just the realization there was a lot of talent here, a 
lot of young talent, a lot of guys who didn't even know how good they were,'' 
Pirates catcher Russell Martin said. "As the season went along, you start 
getting good results, you start feeling better about yourself, then go out 
there and gain some confidence. 

"You just reaffirm the belief that you are good. That's what happened. We 
showed glimpses early on, and then there was a point in the season where we 
showed up at the field and we expected to win.'' 

Andrew McCutchen's numbers may have been down from 2012, but he captured the 
NL MVP award after batting .317 with 21 homers, 84 RBI, 97 runs scored and an 
OPS of .911. Those were all down from his 31HR/96RBI/107RS/.327BA/.953OPS 
numbers of 2012, proving that he doesn't need monster numbers to take this 
club far, he just needs a supporting cast. 

That cast gets a little stronger this year with the emergence of Starling 
Marte as a legit leadoff hitter and a more consistent clean-up hitter in Pedro 
Alvarez. Marte stole 41 bases and had a .343 on-base percentage, while Alvarez 
led the NL with 36 homers and drove in 100 runs. Both players will have to 
continue to provide solid offense if Pittsburgh is going anywhere. 

Getting the call for the Pirates on Monday will be left-hander Francisco 
Liriano, who rejuvenated his career last year and ranked third in the National 
League with a career-best 16 victories along with a 3.02 ERA in 26 starts. 

The 30-year-old, who was named the NL's Comeback Player of the Year, also 
tallied 163 strikeouts in 161 innings of work, went 8-2 with a stellar 1.26 
ERA following a Pittsburgh loss and was the winning pitcher in the Pirates' 
6-2 triumph over Cincinnati in the NL Wild Card Game. 

Chicago, meanwhile, finished in fifth place in the NL Central for the fourth 
straight season. Pitcher Matt Garza and outfielder Alfonso Soriano were 
jettisoned at the trade deadline and at the end of September, manager Dale 
Sveum was given his walking papers after just two years on the job. 

While there is certainly plenty of blame to go around, his tenure did produce 
the worst two-year stretch in the organization's long history -- no small feat 
considering that history includes 105 years and counting without a World 
Series title. 

In steps new manager Rick Renteria, whose reputation of working well with 
young players was a driving factor in the front office's hiring decision. 

This season marks president Theo Epstein and general manager Jed Hoyer's third 
year at the helm. The front office continues to embrace a long-term rebuilding 
model, and for good reason. As such, there were no big-money signings or 
splashy offseason moves. Instead, the Cubs' focus is on nurturing their young 
prospects for the future while also trying to sprinkle in some wins now 
despite an Opening Day payroll of around $87 million, the club's lowest figure 
since 2005. 

Although the win-right-now part of that equation will be a pretty big 
challenge for this Cubs team bereft of talent, the front office remains 
steadfast in its approach to contend beyond 2014. 

One of those players the Cubs hope to lock up long term will be on the hill 
Monday in right-hander Jeff Samardzija. He has declined their attempts, 
though, and was the subject of trade rumors most of the winter following a 
season that saw him go 8-13 with a 4.34 earned run average in 33 starts. 

Samardzija's 2013 season started with him scattering two hits over eight 
scoreless innings in Pittsburgh. 

Pittsburgh was 12-7 against the Cubs last season. 

Cards, Reds carry high hopes into 2014 opener

Coverage of Cards and Reds can be heard on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM beginning at 2:35pm.

(SportsNetwork.com) - Two teams with huge expectations kick off their season 
on Monday when the St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds open a three-game 
series at Great American Ball Park. 

The Cards proved once again in 2013 that they are indeed the symbol of 
excellence in Major League Baseball. They may have come up short in the World 
Series to the Boston Red Sox, but is there a team more set up for the future 
than Mike Matheny's club? 

Even though Carlos Beltran left as a free agent, the Cards were more than 
prepared to move on, as Allen Craig will seamlessly slide into right field 
duties, while 21-year-old super prospect Oscar Taveras gets a little more 
seasoning at the Triple-A level. 

In an effort to fill the power void left by Beltran, the Cardinals signed 
shortstop Jhonny Peralta, who, of course, was part of the Biogenesis scandal 
last season. Before his 50-game ban, though, he was hitting .303 with 11 
homers, 30 doubles and 55 RBI for the Detroit Tigers. 

Peralta will no doubt help a shortstop position that last year was 27th in the 
league with a .596 OPS. 

This team is just dripping with young talent, specifically in the pitching 
department, as starters Michael Wacha and Shelby Miller, as well as relievers 
Trevor Rosenthal, Carlos Martinez, Seth Maness and Kevin Siegrist all had 
significant contributions in their rookie seasons. 

They will have a veteran on the hill Monday, though, in 32-year-old righty 
Adam Wainwright, who went 19-9 last year with a 2.94 ERA and finished second 
to Los Angeles' Clayton Kershaw in NL Cy Young voting. He also posted career- 
highs in innings (241 2/3), strikeouts (219), complete games (five) and 
shutouts (two). 

The Reds, though, gave him trouble, as he went 1-3 with a 7.77 ERA in four 
starts against them. 

It will be the third Opening Day start of Wainwright's career and the second 
since returning from Tommy John surgery. 

Up until a March 19 spring game with the Kansas City Royals, Cincinnati was 
perceived consistently among the cognoscenti: solid team, a few All-Star 
caliber players, but one - after two straight impotent playoff appearances in 
2012 and 2013 - that needed to hold all talking until October. 

In the immediate aftermath of that exhibition with the Royals, however, the 
consensus that another postseason re-do is an automatic has been significantly 
impacted. 

When closer Aroldis Chapman was drilled by a comebacker after Kansas City's 
Salvador Perez turned on a 99 mph fastball and left him in a writhing heap on 
the Arizona mound, the immediate question marks about Chapman's health and 
long-term prospects became significant items on the Reds priority list and the 
team's out-of-the-gate ability to do without him became instantly magnified. 

Initial diagnoses veered from facial lacerations and contusions all the way to 
bone fractures, which, in either case, will put the bullpen on the spot to 
finish games until his return. 

Elsewhere on the field, the pieces seem a little more certain for first-year 
manager Bryan Price, who was elevated from pitching coach upon the exit of 
veteran skipper Dusty Baker. 

Perennial MVP candidate Joey Votto is back at first base after hitting .305 
with 24 home runs and 75 runs batted in last season, in which he played 162 
games after being held to only 111 a season earlier. He was the National 
League's MVP in 2010 and has been among the top-15 vote-getters for the award 
in every season since, including a sixth-place standing after 2013. 

Slugging right fielder Jay Bruce got some MVP love of his own, finishing 10th 
in the voting, after reaching the 30-homer plateau for the third straight 
season and driving in a career-best 109 runs. He'll presumably be helped by 
the full-time return of left fielder Ryan Ludwick, who played just 38 games 
last season after a banner 2012 in which he hit 26 homers and drove in 80 
runs. 

Center field is finally the domain of minor-league base-stealing sensation 
Billy Hamilton after Shin-Soo Choo signed as a free agent with the Texas 
Rangers. The youngster swiped 13 bases in 13 games with the Reds last season 
and had 395 steals in 502 games across six stops in the minors. If he hits - 
he batted .368 in the brief audition last summer - the Reds won't miss Choo 
nearly as much. 

Heading to the hill on Monday will be lefty Johnny Cueto, who, after winning 
19 games in 2012, was only able to make 11 starts last season because of 
injury. Still, he was 5-2 with a 2.82 ERA in those appearances. 

"I'm not worried about it at all," said Cueto, who will be making his third 
straight Opening Day start. "Those are last year's injuries and I'm prepared 
and ready to go. It was a difficult year for me because I wasn't able to help 
the team. That's the toughest part. Everyone goes through injuries, 
unfortunately." 

StLouis was 11-8 against the Reds last season. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-31-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

CRASHES:

On March 29, Nicholas F. Jebe of Macon was traveling east on County 4. Around 2575 East, a deer ran into the roadway. Jebe hit the deer causing damage to the front of the vehicle. No injuries were reported.

On March 26, Thomas A. Gulley of Moweaqua was traveling east on 1875 North road when a deer entered the roadway. Gulley struck the deer causing front end damage. No injuries reported.

On March 22, Shawn T. Davis of Edinburg was westbound on Township Road 1350 North. Davis lost control of the vehicle and went through the intersection and out into the field. Davis was issued a citation for driving on a suspended license and given a zero tolerance. No injuries reported.

ARRESTS:

Christopher R. Lewis, 26, of 1503 West Elm Street, Taylorville, was arrested March 30 on a bond forfeiture for battery/making physical contact

George A. Nash, 32, of 713 East Dean Street, Virden, was arrested March 31 for disorderly conduct.

Joshua A. Page, 32, of 400 West Market Street, Taylorville, was arrested March 30 on a bond forfeiture for a possession of an amount of a controlled substance.

Michael J. Price, 27, of 31120 Pike Road, Medora, was arrested March 28 for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Joseph S. Lawrence, 34, of 508 North Main Street, Stonington, was arrested March 28 on a warrant for driving on a revoked license.

Patrick S. Powers, 23, of 1035 East 2475 North Road, Edinburg, was arrested March 30 for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Jessica N. Tyson-Ragan, 23, of 1212 West Pauline Street, Taylorville, was arrested March 29 on a bond forfeiture for driving on a suspended license.

Ryan A. Kauzlaurich, 46, of 70 East Washington Street, Champaign, was arrested March 30 on a bond forfeiture for methamphetamine manufacturing.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

On March 27 at 11:56am, Walmart called and requested Taylorville Police Department officers in reference to a shoplifter that was not cooperating. Officers arrived and identified the male shoplifter as Anthony M. Bavetta, 27, of Taylorville. Bavetta was arrested for retail theft, processed, and released on a notice to appear.

On March 30 at 12:24pm, a Taylorville Police Department officer was dispatched to 1218 West Pauline in regards to a disturbance. The officer arrived and spoke to several people and witnesses regarding the incident. Ernest S. Stewart, 24, of Taylorville was arrested for disorderly conduct.

On March 30 at 4:40am, a Taylorville Police Department officer was contacted via phone by a Christian County Sheriff's Deputy in reference to a male subject at their post wanting to reports that he had damaged the residence behind McDonald's. The officer made contact with the staff at the assisted living residence and they came up with the name of the suspect Dennis E. Wilcutt, Jr., 26, of Taylorville. The officer saw that an outside screen may have been cut. The officer spoke with Wilcutt at Christian County Sheriff's Office and he stated that he did cut the screen with a utility knife. The officer arrived at work that night and found that management from the assisted living facility had called and wished to seek charges for criminal damage to property. Another officer took photos of the damage and was able to locate Wilcutt walking along the side of the street while on patrol. Wilcutt was transported to Taylorville Police Department to be processed and given trespass warning for the property of John Street Home, Wilcutt was released on a notice to appear with a court date of May 1.

On March 29 at 6:44pm, Taylorville Police Department officers were out at 1212 West Pauline Street Apt. 1 in reference to Jessica Tyson, 23, of Taylorville. Officers knew Tyson to have a valid Christian County warrant. Tyson was arrested and transported to Christian County Sheriff's Office.

On March 29 at 10:48pm, Taylorville Police Department dispatch advised of a possible driving under the influence coming into town on Route 29 from the prison. The vehicle was described as a dark colored Jimmy. An officer located the vehicle at Park Street and McAdam Drive traveling westbound. The vehicle was stopped at Main and Park. Following the investigation, Carl Gensler, 52, of Pana, was arrested for DUI.

On March 30, a Taylorville Police Department officer made contact with Christopher Lewis, 26, of Taylorville. The officer knew Lewis to have a valid warrant and had it confirmed through dispatch. Lewis was placed under arrest and transported to Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond

On March 28, a Taylorville Police Department officer was assisting a parole agent at 1218 West Pauline Street #11 with a parole revocation. During the course of the investigation, Nicole R. Schneider, 25, of Taylorville was arrested for possession of a controlled substance. Schneider was lodged at Christian County Sheriff's Office in lieu of bond.

CRASHES:

On March 28, Kelli M. Ettinger, 22, of Stonington was backing out of a parking space. Ettinger backed into an ATM machine that is attached to the US Bank drive through.

On March 30, a Taylorville Police Department officer responded to a two vehicle accident at Route 29 and Grant Drive. Durbin R. Michael, 61, of Taylorville stated he had stopped at the stop lights that were in the flashing red stage. Michael stated he observed that Raymond D. Radae, 66, of Edinburg was not going to get stopped and he proceeded forward to avoid getting rear ended but Radae rear ended him. Radae stated he looked down for a second and when he looked up, he observed Michael and was unable to stop in time and struck Michael in the rear end. Radae was issued a citation for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. No injuries were reported.

Fire Department Calls 3-31-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 28
1 EMS, 1 Public Assist, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident

March 29
6 EMS, 2 Public Assists

March 30
3 EMS

CRIME OF THE WEEK FOR MARCH 30, 2014

                                      

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a burglary that occurred in Christian County.

Sometime between 2:00 pm on Monday March 10, 2014 and 2:00 am on Tuesday March 11, 2014, person or persons unknown made entry into a residence located in a rural area North of Pana.  While inside the unknown subject or subjects took numerous electronic devises and a handgun.   The total dollar amount of the 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.

                           

Shelbyville Rotary Hears About New Visions Program

 width=

Caroline Reynolds and Phil Miller

The Shelbyville Rotary Club held their weekly meeting Monday at the Shelbyville Memorial Hospital. A round of applause was made for Shelbyville Superintendent Denise Bence, retired judge Mike Kiley, and the Rotary Club for the efforts that were put forth in the passage of the school referendum initiative. 

 

Bence, in discussion, stated that the school is meeting with HVAC contractors to decide what manner of heating/cooling system would be best to replace the current unit that is in the high school.  She anticipates that this project should be completed in about one year from this summer.

 width= 

Phil Miller was this week’s program chairman.  His keynote speaker was the club’s newest member, Caroline Reynolds.  Her topic was “The New Visions” in-hospital drug rehabilitation program.  This program provides medical care for alcohol and opiate withdrawal.  The program has helped over 500 patients recover from drug/alcohol last year. 

 

This program is one of the few medically supervised programs of its type in the area.  Caroline said she spends a lot of time on the road going to health fairs, marketing, and visiting rehab centers like Hour House in Charleston to successfully get the word out for this program.  She notes that most of the clients come from outside of Shelbyville.  After completing the program in hospital, they are then referred to ongoing alcohol and drug rehab counseling, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous for further support.  The New Visions program is an independently-owned service from Special Care Hospital Management Corporation, and situated in SMH. 

Taylorville Resident Arrested After Allegedly Threatening Someone with Handgun

A Taylorville resident was arrested on Friday after an incident involving a handgun. Around 11:57am, Taylorville Police Department officers responded to a disturbance in the 600 block of West First Street. Upon arrival, officers spoke to all parties involved. It was alleged that the suspect, 67-year-old Delmar Oats of Taylorville, threatened the victim with a small handgun. Oats was found to be in possession of a Kel-Tech .380 handgun. Oats was taken into custody without incident. Oats was charged with aggravated assault and was released on a notice to appear.

People First Bancshares Inc. Reports Seventh Consecutive Year of Record Income

People First Bancshares, Inc. held its annual meeting of shareholders on March 26, 2014 at Peoples Bank & Trust in Pana, IL. During the meeting, Larry D. Beaty, George Hiler and David Slater were reelected to three year terms as directors of the Bank and Holding Company. Other directors of the Bank and Holding company are James D. Randolph, David Fines, Michael E. Beyers, John Gardner and Michael M. Trexler.

During the report of operations, John Gardner, President and CEO, explained that 2013 was a successful year for Peoples Bank & Trust and recognized the Board, Management and Employees for their contributions to the bank’s success. Gardner recognized Robert Zueck and Barry Heaton who are both retiring from the Board of Directors after over fifteen years of service.

Gardner reported that the bank generated record earnings, maintained fundamental strengths and completed the integration of banks recently acquired in a very challenging environment.

Gardner also reported that during 2013, net income increased from $5.310 million to $5.475 million. Net income per average share also increased from $16.25 to $16.80, resulting in an increase in book value per share from $74.52 to $77.23.

Peoples Bank & Trust is a locally owned and managed, independent community bank with ten offices located in Charleston, Altamont, Tower Hill, Pana, Taylorville, Morrisonville, Springfield, Waverly, Palmyra and White Hall. People First Bancshares, Inc., with corporate offices in Pana, Illinois, is the holding company for Peoples Bank & Trust.

Reps from Shelby Electric and Farm Credit Illinois Join WRAN?s Ag Day Live

As part of National Agriculture Week, Solid Gold 98.3 WRAN held its annual Ag Day Live Broadcast at the Shelby County 4-H Building Thursday. During the remote, Local Farm Broadcaster Jared White spoke with several representatives from Shelby Electric Co-op and Farm Credit Illinois.

 width=

Kevin Bernson, left, and Jared White, right.

Kevin Bernson with Shelby Electric Co-op talks about how the company started:

[audio:bernsonhistory032814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 width=

Heidi Hall

Heidi Hall with Shelby Electric talks about one of their major projects they have going on:

[audio:hallproject032814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 width=

Dustin Theiss

Dustin Theiss with Selby Electric says one of the services they offer is an energy audit and explains what that is:

[audio:theissenergyaudits032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 width=

Bridget Giles

Bridget Giles with Farm Credit Illinois says they aren’t limited to established farmers and offer things for the younger crowd as well:

[audio:gilesyoungfarmers032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

This was the 17th annual Ag Day Live Broadcast for WRAN.

Cubs Top White Sox

Mesa,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Ryan Sweeney went 2-for-3 with a solo home run 
in  the  Chicago Cubs' 4-3  win over the Chicago  White Sox in spring training 
action on Thursday. 

Anthony  Rizzo,  Justin Ruggiano  and Darwin  Barney each  added an RBI, while 
Cubs  starter Travis  Wood struck  out four  over three  scoreless innings  of 
two-hit, one-walk ball. 

Adam  Dunn  and Alejandro De Aza  stroked back-to-back homers in the ninth for 
the  White Sox, who  saw starter Felipe Paulino permit three runs on five hits 
and a walk over four frames. 

Cardinals Fall In Grapefruit Finale

Jupiter,  FL (SportsNetwork.com)  - Derek Dietrich stroked a two-run single to 
spark  Miami's  five-run eighth inning, as  the Marlins secured a 6-4 win over 
the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday in spring training action. 

Marcell  Ozuna and Austin Nola each knocked in a run in the rally, while Miami 
starter  Brad Hand  allowed  just two  hits  and a  walk  over four  scoreless 
innings. 

St.  Louis starter  Michael Wacha surrendered just  one run on five hits and a 
walk  while striking  out six over five frames. Daniel Descalso clubbed a run- 
scoring double in the setback. 

Oshie helps Blues thump Wild

St.  Louis, MO  (SportsNetwork.com)  -  T.J. Oshie's  first  career hat  trick 
highlighted  the St.  Louis Blues'  latest victory,  a  5-1  drubbing of  the 
slumping Minnesota Wild at Scottrade Center. 

Jaden  Schwartz  and Brenden  Morrow  also  tallied  for the  current  Western 
Conference  leaders,  who improved  to 11-2-1  since acquiring goaltender Ryan 
Miller from Buffalo on Feb. 28. 

"We're  really focusing on playing team hockey right now and it's showing with 
the  results we've  had," said Oshie. "Three  of them happened to come from my 
stick, but the next game it will be someone else." 

Miller  did his part  as well in this one, taking a shutout bid into the final 
nine minutes and turning aside 27 of the 28 shots he faced. 

Counterpart Darcy Kuemper wasn't as effective, coming up with just 19 saves as 
the  Wild lost  for the ninth time  in 12 games. Minnesota's lead over Phoenix 
for  the  top wild-card spot  in the  West also shrunk  to one point after the 
Coyotes downed New Jersey on Thursday. 

Zach  Parise accounted for the lone Wild goal in Minnesota's ninth consecutive 
setback to the Blues. 

"That's a team we could face in the first round and we wanted to make it tough 
on them," said Parise. "I don't think we did that, at all, tonight." 

Oshie's  first two  goals came during the opening period, with the initial one 
--  a well-placed wrister into the upper right corner of the Wild net after he 
corralled a loose puck -- giving St. Louis a quick 1-0 edge 4:43 in. 

A  double-minor penalty  to Kevin Shattenkirk late in the first gave Minnesota 
an  extended power play, but the Wild instead fell behind further while on the 
man  advantage.  Oshie intercepted a  pass from  Jared Spurgeon in the neutral 
zone,  starting a  shorthanded breakaway that he finished by blasting the puck 
past Kuemper 26 seconds before the intermission. 

The Blues did cash in on a power-play opportunity to extend the margin in the 
second  period,  with Schwartz beating  Kuemper to  the stick side with Morrow 
setting a screen for a 3-0 cushion. 

Oshie  completed  the  hat  trick  with 7:18  elapsed  in  the  third  period, 
successfully  redirecting a  blast from the point from Jay Bouwmeester to make 
it a 4-0 game. 

Just  under 3  1/2 minutes later, Morrow  chipped in a rebound of Alex Steen's 
initial attempt with the Blues on another power play. 

Parise  produced  Minnesota's lone  highlight  of  the  night by  finishing  a 
transition rush with Charlie Coyle with 8:49 remaining. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  Wild haven't  bested the Blues since a 3-2 shootout decision in Minnesota 
on Nov. 19, 2011 ... Oshie became the second St. Louis player in as many games 
to register a hat trick, with David Backes accomplishing the feat in Tuesday's 
win  over Toronto  ... The Blues have  now notched a point in 10 straight home 
games  (8-0-2), tying  a season-best stretch from Oct. 25-Dec. 5 ... Minnesota 
went  0-for-6 on  the power play, while St. Louis converted 2-of-5 chances ... 
Blues  forward Derek  Roy returned to action after missing two straight with a 
groin injury. 

Bruins blank Blackhawks in Cup rematch

Boston,  MA  (SportsNetwork.com)  -  Patrice Bergeron  scored  two  goals  and 
the  Boston  Bruins blanked  Chicago, 3-0,  in the Blackhawks' first visit to 
TD Garden since winning the Stanley Cup last June. 

Tuukka Rask  made  28 saves for his NHL-leading seventh shutout of the season, 
as the Bruins improved  to 13-0-1 in  their last 14  games. 

"You  never want to play on your heels," Boston head coach Claude Julien said. 
"When  you've got a one-goal lead, you want to extend it before you even think 
of protecting the lead." 

Corey  Crawford stopped 20 shots for the Blackhawks, who were shut out for the 
second time in three games. 

Chicago  is one  point  away from  clinching  a playoff  berth  for the  sixth 
straight year. 

"We're  looking  to get one more  win," Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville 
said. 

Bergeron  went  to the slot  and redirected  Matt Bartkowski's point shot past 
Crawford, extending his goal streak to five games and giving Boston a 1-0 lead 
at 11:50 of the first period. 

Carl  Soderberg  and Bergeron scored  13 seconds apart  in the third period to 
provide the Bruins with some breathing room. 

Johnny  Boychuk  kept a  puck whipped off  the boards by  Brandon Bollig in at 
the  right point  and  fired a  shot that  didn't  reach Crawford. Blackhawk
defenseman  Nick Leddy swept  the puck to the stick of Soderberg and he scored 
from the bottom of the right circle at 5:28. 

The  Bruins  struck again after Crawford  turned the puck over behind his net. 
Brad  Marchand stole the goaltender's pass and quickly fed Bergeron, who fired 
a shot from near the bottom of the left circle. 

Caught  out of  position, Crawford  tried to  dislodge the  net. The  net fell 
forward,  but remained on  its moorings when the puck crossed the goal line at 
5:41. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  Bruins  reached the  50-win mark for  the ninth time  in team history ... 
Bergeron  extended his point  streak to six games (6 goals, 2 assists) ... The 
Blackhawks  were 0-for-2 on the power play and have now gone 0-for-20 with the 
man advantage in their last seven road games ... Chicago forward Bryan Bickell 
missed a fourth straight game with an upper-body injury. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-28-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

CRASHES:

On March 25, Madison N. Hamilton of Macon was northbound on County Road 2525 East. At 1675 North, Hamilton failed to negotiate a right turn at the curve located at 1675 North. Hamilton struck the ditch and received front-end damage. The vehicle was towed from the sene, The front passenger, Kaylee L. Bingaman of Blue Mound claimed Hamilton and her mother (who arrived later on scene) failed to contact the police and refused to contact medical assistance. The passenger was later treated at Taylorville Memorial Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. N o other injuries reported.

ARRESTS:

Adam J. Dewald, 29, of 130 South West Road, Kankakee, was arrested March 27 for possession of cannabis 2.5 to 10 grams.

Camron J. Jiannoni, 27, of 236.5 East Main Street, Mt. Auburn, was arrested March 27 for domestic battery.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

On March 27 at 5:03pm, Taylorville Police Department officers made contact with Michael R. Fuentez, 34, of Taylorville behind 118 East Palmer. Fuentez was seen driving with a suspended license. Fuentez was issued a citation for driving while suspended and released on scene with a notice to appear.

On March 27 at 10:57pm, Taylorville Police Department officers were dispatched to 505 East Adams Street in reference to a domestic battery. Brandon White, 25, of New Holland was arrested on scene and transported to Taylorville Police Department for processing. White was then transported to Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond.

Fire Department Calls 3-28-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 27
4 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm

March 28
3 EMS

Shelbyville Manor to Host Easter Egg Hunt

Shelbyville Manor will be hosting an Easter Egg Hunt next Saturday, April 5th at 10am. Kristy Gorden, Director of Marketing and Sales, tells Regional Radio News about the event:

[audio:gordeneasteregghunt032814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The event will be in the Shelbyville Manor Courtyard and is open to the public. For more information, call Shelbyville Manor at 774-2111.

Rosenthal Introduces Legislation Dealing with Weight Limits on Roadways

State Representative Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville says farmers in rural areas were having problems driving their equipment on roadways they normally use because some road commissioners were unexpectedly changing the weight limit on the roads. Rosenthal said that the farmers were then unable to take the routes necessary to haul their products and introduced legislation dealing with weight limits:

[audio:032514RosenthalHB2367.MP3]comment here[/audio]

While the bill was approved in House committee on Tuesday, Rosenthal will continue to work with numerous groups on the bill before the legislation goes to the House floor.    

Deadline for Medicare Part B Monday

If you want to sign up for Medicare part B, you'd better get moving.  Jack Myers, Public Affairs Specialist for the Springfield Social Security Office, says the enrollment period to sign up this year ends Monday:

[audio:myerspartbdeadline032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Myers says you can find out more by calling 1-800 Medicare, or go online to medicare.gov.

Peters Reveals FTC's Top Ten Complaints

In this computer age, we are hearing more and more about scams being perpetrated on the public, and especially senior citizens.  Richard Peters of the Triad organization says the Federal Trade Commission has issued a top 10 list of consumer complaints:

[audio:peterstriad032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Triad is an organization dedicated to helping senior citizens.

White Sox Top Reds

Glendale,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) -  Jose Abreu went 2-fo-5 with a three-run 
homer  to lead the Chicago White Sox to a 9-5 victory over the Cincinnati Reds 
on Wednesday. 

Adam  Eaton collected four hits  for the White Sox and starter John  Danks 
allowed three runs -- one earned -- in 6 1/3 innings with five strikeouts. 

Jason  Bourgeois went 2-for-5 with an RBI double in the setback, while Reds 
starter  Brett Marshall was tagged for seven runs on 12 hits over five innings 
pitched. 

Cubs Crushed By D-backs

Scottsdale,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Chris Owings' three-run blast was one of 
six  home runs hit  by the Arizona Diamondbacks in a 14-4 win over the Chicago 
Cubs on Wednesday. 

Mark  Trumbo, Jordan  Parraz, Brandon Jacobs, Rudy Flores and Aaron Cunningham 
also  homered in  the spring  training win  and Brandon  McCarthy pitched  six 
innings, striking out six and giving up three runs on six hits and a walk. 

Chris Coghlan homered for the Cubs and Jeff Samardzija allowed just one run in 
three innings. 

The  Diamondbacks  did most of  their damage against  Chris Rusin, who gave up 
nine runs and 10 hits in 2 2/3 frames. 

Cardinals Clip Nationals

Jupiter,  FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Yadier Molina had two hits and drove in all 
three  runs  for  the St.  Louis Cardinals  in  their  3-2 triumph  over  the 
Washington Nationals in spring training action. 

Allen  Craig  tallied a hit  and scored twice for  the Cardinals, who got five 
shutout innings of one-hit ball from starter Adam Wainwright. 

Nationals  starter  Gio Gonzalez allowed three  runs -- one earned -- on seven 
hits and a walk over five frames. Caleb Ramsey smacked a two-run single in the 
eighth. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-27-14

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

CRASHES:

On March 21, Jerik H. Zerfowski, 18, of Taylorville stated he was southbound on Cherokee at the intersection of East Park. Gail E. Coulter, 62, of Pana stated she was eastbound on East Park at the intersection of Cherokee. Zerfowski stated he had a green light and continued through the intersection. Coulter stated she did not see the light was red and continued through the intersection. Coulter hit Zerfowski in the passenger side causing damage to the door, front quarter panel and rear quarter panel. Coulter received front end damage. No injuries were reported.

ARRESTS:

On March 27 at 12:05am, Taylorville Police Department officers went to 1001 East Adams to attempt to locate Amanda J. Kee, 37, of Taylorville who had an active warrant out of Christian County. Officers made contact with Kee and placed her under arrest. Kee was transported to Christian County Sheriff's Office in lieu of bond.

On March 24 at 4:40pm, Taylorville Police Department officers stopped a vehicle in the 600 block of North Ridge. Following the stop, Clint A. Hadden. 37, of Taylorville was arrested for driving while license revoked.

On March 23 at 6:45pm, the Walmart asset protection associate made contact with Taylorville Police Department in reference to a retail theft that had occurred. Following the investigation, Cindy L. Delacruz, 41, of Taylorville and Kathy M. Sheedy, 35, of Taylorville were arrested for retail theft, processed, and released from Taylorville Police Department with a notice to appear.

On March 25 at 7:35pm, Taylorville Police Department officers were out at 30 Hannon Trailer Park in reference to a domestic dispute. Following the investigation, Ernest Stewart, 24, of Taylorville was arrested for criminal trespass. Stewart was transported to Taylorville Police Department, processed, and released with a notice to appear.

Fire Department Calls 3-27-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 26
1 Mutual Aid, 1 Grass Fire, 1 Gas Leak

March 27
1 Mutual Aid

WRAN/WTIM Host Annual Ag Day Live Broadcasts

 width=

Pictured Left to Right: Scott Montgomery of Farm Credit Illinois, Local Farm Broadcaster Jared White 

This week is National Agriculture Week and as part of the week, Solid Gold 98.3 WRAN held its 17th annual Ag Day Live Broadcast at the Shelby County 4-H Building Thursday morning. During the broadcast, the Shelby County Farm Bureau Young Leaders were serving their 9th annual “Farm City Breakfast”. Scott Montgomery, with and Young Ag Leaders and Farm Credit Illinois, explains how the event got its name:

[audio:montgomeryname032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Montgomery tells WRAN about Farm Credit Illinois:

[audio:montgomeryfarmcredit032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 width=

Josh Shaw of Farm Credit, left, talks to Jared White, right.

Josh Shaw, Crop Insurance Specialist with Farm Credit Illinois, talks about the importance of having crop insurance:

[audio:shawcropinsurance032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 

 width=

Several Young Ag Leaders Serving Breakfast

 

In part 2 of the day, Newstalk 97.3 WTIM held its 22nd annual Ag Day Live Broadcast at Farm Credit Illinois in Taylorville as part of National Agriculture Week.

 width=

Dan Pollock, left, with Jared White,right.

Regional Manager of Farm Credit Illinois Dan Pollock says they are getting ready for the upcoming farm season:

[audio:pollockreadytogo032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 width=

Amanda Cole

Amanda Cole, Director of the University of Illinois Extension, says they are bring back an old position:

[audio:coleagliteracy032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 width=

Mike Franzen

Mike Franzen, Crop Insurance Specialist with Farm Credit Illinois, says there are different options out there for how much a crop is covered under the insurance:

[audio:franzenoptions032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

 width=

Derek Stayton

Derek Stayton, loan officer with Farm Credit Illinois, says technology has played a huge part in how they do business:

[audio:staytontech032714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Miller Media Group local farm broadcaster Jared White hosted both live broadcasts.

Fog Machine during THS Musical Triggers False Fire Alarm; High School Evacuated

 width=

A fog machine being operated during a performance of the Taylorville High School musical "Fiddler on the Roof", triggered one of the school's fire alarms at 12:40 this afternoon, causing an evacuation of the high school for about 15 minutes.

Taylorville High School principal Bob Richardson told Regional Radio News that the play cast was performing the show for Taylorville Junior High School students when the fog machine caused the fire alarm to go off.

[audio:RichardsonaudioMar2714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Taylorville Fire and Police responded to the triggered fire alarm.

Students returned to the high school building by 12:55 this afternoon.

The T-H-S musical will go as scheduled this weekend.

Edwards: Watch for Motorcycles

With the weather finally warming up, we are seeing more and more motorcycles on the road.  Illinois State Police Safety Information Officer Emanuelwel Edwards says motorcyclists need to be extra careful:

[audio:edwardsispmotorcycles032514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

For info on motorcyclist safety and regulations check out the Illinois State Police website at isp.state.il.us.

Rep. Davis Congratulates Taylorville Principal

U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis of Taylorville, on the floor of the U.S. House Tuesday, congratulated Brandi Bruley, Principal at North Elementary School in Taylorville, for being named the Illinois Principals Association 2014-2015 Elementary School Principal of the Year:

[audio:davisbruley032614.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Bruley is also eligible to compete for the National Distinguished Principal of the Year award.

Taylorville Kiwanis Hear About Taylorville Municipal Airport

 width=

Pictured left to right Kiwanis President Chris Weittenhiller and Bill Newberry.

The Taylorville Municipal Airport was the topic of interest at the weekly Taylorville Kiwanis club meeting. Bill Newberry discussed the history of the airport from its humble beginnings of grass runways to the modern airport we have today. He detailed their strategy for cutting expenses when the city took over the airport in 2007. Those included the installation of automated gas tanks, solar panels, and gas and electricity meters in the hangars. He estimates there are between 4,000 to 6,000 landings and take offs per year. The airports immediate future plans include a 700 foot extension of the taxi runway. For more information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com

Taylorville Fire Department Issues Safety Reminder After Several Brush Fires

The Taylorville Fire Department had their hands full Friday dealing with several brush fires. Taylorville Fire Chief Mike Crews tells Regional Radio News about their day and reminds people of some safety tips when it comes to burning:

[audio:crewsbrushfires032514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

A list of designated burn days can be found on the City of Taylorville’s website, taylorville.net.

Shelbyville Rotary Club Learns About History of St. Patrick

At the Shelbyville Rotary Club meeting, members were notified that they should have received a letter from Club Treasurer Liz Nohren for a request to support the Shelbyville Rotary Scholarship Award. This award is made to a student based upon financial need, community service and academic achievement. The Shelbyville School Foundation will make the selection for the recipient of this award.

Kevin Ray was the program chairman and keynote speaker. His topic was about Saint Patrick and his history in Ireland. Ray told the Club about how the young Patrick was kidnapped from his home in Britain, and taken as a slave to Ireland. Ray also told of St. Patrick’s miraculous escape and his use of the Shamrock in his parables.

Phil Miller is the next program chairman and his program which will be presented by the Club’s newest member Caroline Reynolds. She will be speaking about New Visions. 

Sale Struggles In Final Spring Start

Glendale, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Michael Cuddyer drove in a pair of runs and 
the  Colorado  Rockies topped the  Chicago White Sox, 4-1, in spring training 
action on Tuesday. 

Nolan  Pacheco  homered for the Rockies  and D.J. LeMahieu went 3-for-4 with a 
triple,  an RBI and  a run scored. Juan Nicasio held Chicago hitless over five 
strong innings while striking out seven. 

Conor Gillaspie drove in the lone Chicago run while Chris Sale surrendered two 
runs on six hits over 3 2/3 frames in his final start of the spring 

Cubs Fall to Angels, Tie with Padres in Split Squad Games

Mesa,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  - Ian Stewart's leadoff homer sparked a six-run 
rally  in the ninth  inning that lifted the Angels to an 8-4 win over the Cub
on Tuesday. 

Grant Green followed Stewart's first home run of spring training with a triple 
and  Collin  Cowgill knocked him in  with a double. Shawn O'Malley, Abel Baker 
and Stewart knocked in the other four runs with singles. 

Five of the runs were charged to Alberto Cabrera, who got just one out. 

Raul Ibanez also hit a solo homer for the Angels and Stewart ended 3-for-5. 

Brandon Lyon went just 1 1/3 innings for the Angels, giving up two runs, while 
Cubs  starter Tsuyoshi  Wada threw four frames, striking out four and allowing 
two runs. 

Junior Lake homered for Chicago. 

 

Peoria,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - The Chicago Cubs rallied for three runs in 
the top of the ninth inning to force a 5-5 tie against the San Diego Padres on 
Tuesday in spring training action. 

With  the Cubs  trailing by three to  start the ninth, Dustin Geiger stroked a 
one-out  RBI  single to get  Chicago within  one before Clint Moore's fielding 
error two batters later allowed Emilio Bonifacio and Geiger to score. 

Rubi  Silva and  Ryan Kalish  recorded an  RBI apiece  for the Cubs, who  saw 
starter  C.J. Edwards allow three runs on four hits and three walks over 2 2/3 
innings. 

Gabriel  Quintana and  Rene Rivera  each drove  in two  runs, while  San Diego 
starter Andrew Cashner allowed an unearned run on two hits over three frames. 

Bourjos Has Big Game As Cards Fall

Jupiter,  FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Casey McGehee and Juan Diaz each homered to 
lead the Miami Marlins over the St. Louis Cardinals, 6-5, in Grapefruit League 
action at Roger Dean Stadium. 

Jose  Fernandez  allowed five  runs --  four earned --  on nine  hits in 4 2/3 
innings. He struck out three and walked two in his final spring training start 
before taking the hill in the Marlins' opener next week. 

Lance  Lynn  started for  the Cardinals  and yielded three  runs on five hits, 
striking out eight and walking one in five innings. 

Peter Bourjos ended 3-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored for St. Louis. 

Backes records hat trick as Blues top Maple Leafs

Toronto, ON (SportsNetwork.com) - David Backes notched the second hat trick of 
his  career as  the St. Louis Blues  held off the Toronto Maple Leafs, 5-3, on 
Tuesday. 

Alexander  Steen  and T.J.  Oshie each posted  a goal and  two assists for the 
Blues,  who have  won two  straight after  dropping their  previous two.  Ryan 
Miller turned away 22 shots in the win. 

The  win gives St. Louis 105 points on the season, one better than idle Boston 
for first overall in the NHL. 

Joffrey Lupul, James van Riemsdyk, and Carl Gunnarsson each had a goal for the 
Maple  Leafs, who are one of four Eastern Conference teams with 80 points, but 
currently find themselves sitting out of the wild card chase. 

Columbus  and Detroit  currently hold the two wild card spots, with Washington 
and Toronto sitting on the outside due to playing more games. 

"The  whole  year we've thought  we were a playoff  team, and we still believe 
that now," said Lupul. "Realistically we're still right there with these other 
teams." 

Jonathan Bernier made 44 saves in a losing effort. 

Toronto  trailed by three  goals entering the third period, but made it a two- 
goal  game 4:39 in  as a turnover in the St. Louis end saw Gunnarsson one-time 
it from the slot for his third of the year and a 4-2 game. 

The Leafs then cut their deficit to one with 4:06 to play as a sequence in the 
St. Louis end saw Phil Kessel send a quick backhand from behind the net to the 
front where van Riemsdyk chipped it in for his 28th of the year. 

Toronto  then pulled  Bernier with  under  two minutes  to play  for an  extra 
attacker,  but Backes capped the hat trick with a shot down the middle for his 
27th of the season. 

"I  think  he doesn't  give himself enough  credit for how  good of a 200-foot 
player  he  is," said Blues head  coach Ken Hitchcock  about Backes. "I think 
that's  one  of the  things that  has really evolved  in his  game now. He's a 
really good 200-foot player. He's not just a checker, he's a guy that can play 
in both ends of the rink." 

The Maple Leafs drew first blood and they did so on the power play at 11:30 of 
the  first period. Jake Gardiner's shot from the high slot was stopped and the 
rebound  went to the right. Nazem Kadri swatted the puck while it was airborne 
over to the left side where Lupul slammed it in. 

St.  Louis,  though, tied  the game  at 15:55  of the  opening period as Roman 
Polak's shot from the right point got behind the goalie and Oshie tapped it in 
for his 18th of the season. 

With  just 32.3  seconds left in the first,  the Blues made it a 2-1 game as a 
turnover near the blueline saw Oshie get it to Backes, who fired a shot on net 
from  the  right circle that trickled  between Bernier's pads for a power-play 
goal. 

St. Louis took a 3-1 advantage at 7:32 of the second on Backes' second goal of 
the  game, and made it a 4-1 contest at 17:35 of the middle stanza courtesy of 
Steen's backhander from the slot. 

                                   Game Notes 

St.  Louis  hosts Minnesota on  Thursday ...  Toronto plays at Philadelphia on 
Friday  ... The Blues have won the  past two against the Maple Leafs ... Both 
teams were 1-for-3 on the power play. 

Blackhawks Double Up Stars

Chicago,  IL (SportsNetwork.com)  - Duncan Keith netted the deciding goal late 
in  the second  period and Marian Hossa added an empty-net insurance marker as 
Chicago topped Dallas, 4-2, at United Center. 

Andrew  Shaw and Kris  Versteeg also lit the lamp for the Blackhawks, who have 
won  three of their last four and took the season series against their Central 
Division rivals by a 4-1-0 count. 

"It  was a big  win tonight," Keith said. "I thought we came out, had a pretty 
good start and we were able to get one on the power play which was nice to get 
us jump-started." 

Corey Crawford stopped 25-of-27 shots for the victorious hosts. 

Ryan  Garbutt registered both goals for the Stars, while Kari Lehtonen came up 
with 38 saves in the loss. 

"It's  that time  of year  where  it doesn't  really  matter if  you had  your 
chances,"  Garbutt said. "At the end of the day you have to get the two points 
so we gotta make sure we come back hard next game here." 

Despite coming up empty on a power-play chance earlier in the third and facing 
a  two-goal  deficit, Garbutt stuffed one  home from behind the net and inside 
the right post with 5:40 to play, and the Stars climbed back within 3-2. 

Lehtonen was called to the bench for an extra skater with well over one minute 
to  go, and Chicago's  first try to the empty cage was negated after officials 
ruled the puck was batted in due to a high stick. 

Hossa  made no  mistake, though, on the next shift, providing the winning two- 
goal margin at 19:26. 

Shaw  slid home a  loose puck created from a Patrick Sharp rebound and Chicago 
led 1-0 with 18 seconds left in the first period. 

Versteeg  doubled the  hosts' edge at 4:12,  then Garbutt put the Stars on the 
board just after the midway point of the second when he cut from left to right 
and beat Crawford through the pads on the backhand. 

It was 3-1 on Keith's left-point blast off a dish from Sharp at 14:15. 

                                   Game Notes 

19-year-old  Finnish  native Teuvo  Teravainen  made  his  NHL debut  for  the 
Blackhawks,  held without  a shot  on goal  in 11:39  of ice  time ...  Dallas 
forward Tyler Seguin extended his point streak to 10 games with an assist. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-26-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CRASHES:

On March 25, Tanya M. Britt of Morrisonville was traveling southeast on Southeast Seventh Street in Morrisonville. Britt was approaching the intersection with Carlin Street. Jesse W. Mollet of Morrisonville was traveling northeast on Carlin Street and was approaching the intersection with SE 7th Street. Britt proceeded into the intersection stating she did not see Mollet. Mollet proceeded into the intersection and struck Britt. Britt received major passenger side damage and Mollet received major front end damage. Mollet was towed from the scene. No injuries were reported. Note:The only traffic control device is a yield sign which is located on the east corner of the intersection. The yield sign is designated for traffic traveling northwest on SE 7th Street.

On March 24, Douglas A. Thomas of Kincaid was backing out of a parking stall and did not see the parked vehicle behind him. Thomas struck the vehicle in the front end while backing. Thomas did not receive any damage and the other vehicle had minor damage to the front end. No injuries were reported.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLLOWING ARRESTS:

On March 25, a Taylorville Police Department officer was on patrol and ran the license plate of a Mercury SUV. The plate was expired. The officer stopped the vehicle at Adam and Cheyenne. Following the investigation, Kamala McCombs, 44, of Vandalia was arrested for driving revoked. The passenger, Kelly Lyons, 48, of Vandalia was placed under arrest for possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both were released on a notice to appear.

Fire Department Calls 3-26-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 25
1 EMS, 1 Public Assist

March 26
2 EMS

Bears agree to terms with Jared Allen

Lake Forest, IL (SportsNetwork.com) - The Chicago Bears have agreed to terms 
with defensive end Jared Allen on a four-year contract. 

According to NFL.com, the deal is worth $32 million, although the contract 
voids to three years for $24 million. The pact includes $15.5 million in fully 
guaranteed money. 

Allen joins the Bears after spending the past six seasons with the Minnesota 
Vikings. 

"We are extremely happy for Jared, his wife Amy, our fans and the Chicago 
Bears that Jared has agreed to terms and will be joining the Bears family," 
said Bears general manager Phil Emery. "This is another important step in our 
continued efforts to build our team towards a championship level." 

In 2013, Allen recorded 52 tackles, 11 1/2 sacks, six passes defensed and two 
forced fumbles. It was his seventh consecutive double-digit sack season and 
eighth overall of his 10-year career. 

Allen started all 16 games in each of his six seasons with the Vikings. He has 
never played in fewer than 14 games in any season since entering the NFL in 
2004. 

Originally selected by Kansas City in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft, 
Allen spent the first four years of his career with the Chiefs. In 157 career 
games, Allen has compiled 555 tackles, five interceptions, 29 forced fumbles, 
17 fumble recoveries, 50 pass deflections and four safeties, tied for the most 
in NFL history. 

The Idaho State product and 2003 Buck Buchanan Award winner leads the league 
in sacks with 128 1/2 since being drafted. Allen broke the Vikings single- 
season sack record with 22 in 2011, when he recorded 22, just a half-sack shy 
of Michael Strahan's single-season league record. 

Allen, who will turn 32 in April, is a five-time Pro Bowl selection and has 
been voted first-team All Pro four times. 

"We're really excited about adding Jared to our football team," said Bear
coach Marc Trestman. "We know what his abilities bring to the table. Jared is 
certainly a very experienced player in the league. We believe he's going to 
come in hungry and excited to be part of our football team, and we believe 
he'll fit right in with the other new players that we've added and the guys 
that are already on the defensive side of the ball. I know that our defensive 
coaches are excited as well." 

The Bears already added two pass rushers in free agency, signing Lamarr 
Houston and Willie Young. Chicago did lose eight-time Pro Bowl defensive end 
Julius Peppers, who signed with the rival Packers. 

Board Rules Northwestern Players Can Unionize

Chicago, IL (SportsNetwork.com) - The National Labor Relations Board has ruled 
that Northwestern football players are employees of the university and should 
therefore be entitled to be represented in collective bargaining. 

The  ruling Wednesday  by regional NLRB director Peter Sung Ohr opens the door 
for  the players to unionize in what could be a landscape-changing decision in 
college athletics. 

Northwestern said it was "disappointed" by the ruling and plans to appeal. 

"Northwestern  believes  strongly that our student-athletes are not employees, 
but  students,"  the school said.  "Unionization and collective bargaining are 
not  the  appropriate methods  to  address  the  concerns raised  by  student- 
athletes." 

The NCAA also expressed its disappointment in the ruling. 

"We  strongly  disagree with the  notion that student-athletes are employees," 
the NCAA's chief legal officer Donald Remy said in a statement. 

"We  frequently  hear from  student-athletes,  across  all sports,  that  they 
participate  to  enhance their overall college  experience and for the love of 
their sport, not to be paid. 

"Over  the last  three years, our member colleges and universities have worked 
to  re-evaluate  the current rules. While  improvements need to be made, we do 
not  need to completely throw away a system that has helped literally millions 
of students over the past decade alone attend college. 

"We  want  student athletes --  99 percent  of whom will  never make it to the 
professional leagues -- focused on what matters most -- finding success in the 
classroom, on the field and in life." 

Former Northwestern quarterback Kain Colter, who helped bring the petition to 
the  labor board  with the  College  Athletes Players  Association (CAPA)  and 
United  Steelworkers,  called  the  decision  "a  huge  win  for  all  college 
athletes." 

Ohr  wrote  that Northwestern  football players on  scholarship should vote on 
whether or not they want to be represented in collective bargaining by CAPA. 

He  said players receiving grant-in-aid scholarships fall under the common-law 
definition of employees. 

The  case has  taken its place in  the discussion over whether or not athletes 
should  be paid  for  their part  in the  increasingly  lucrative business  of 
college athletics. 

Mayor Brotherton: Census to Hire Locally

If you're looking for a temporary job that pays a reasonably good salary, you may be in luck.  Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says he was contacted last week about some hiring by the U.S. Census:

[audio:mayorcensusjobs032414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, the jobs will pay from $13.55 to $14.84 an hour.  The number to call once again is 1-800-865-6384, extension 15.

Morrisonville-Panhandle Consolidation Talks to End for Now

During the primary elections last week, the Morrisonville-Panhandle school consolidation failed to pass because the vote was split between the two sides. Committee of Ten Co-Chairman Dale Brockamp (Bro-camp) says one issue that was mentioned was the tax increase:

[audio:brockamptaxincrease032514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Brockamp explains the future of the consolidation:

[audio:brockampfuture032514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Brockamp said in his opinion the thing to remember in this situation is that everybody lost especially the students.

White Sox Down Mariners; Ink Quintana To Extension

(Peoria, AZ)  --  Paul Konerko went 2-for-3 with a two-run homer as the White Sox clipped the Mariners 7-6 yesterday in Peoria.  Marcus Semien also went deep on a three-run shot while Erik Johnson gave up three runs in six innings to pick up the win.  The White Sox host the Rockies today.

The White Sox are locking up lefty starter Jose Quintana.  The team has signed him to a five-year extension worth at least 21-million-dollars.  The deal includes club options for 2019 and 2020 at 10.5-million, and 11.5-million-dollars, respectively.  The 25-year-old Quintana enjoyed a breakout season in 2013, going 9-and-7 with a 3.51 ERA in 33 starts. 

Cubs Lose To Padres; Castro Nears Return

Mesa, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Tommy Medica belted a two-run homer, Seth Smith 
drove in a pair of runs and the Colorado Rockies bested the Chicago Cubs, 7-1, 
in spring training on Monday night. 

Chase  Headley  also had  an RBI  for the Padres,  whose starter, Eric Stults, 
allowed just one run on five hits over 5 2/3 innings. 

Chicago's  only  run came in  the first  frame via Donnie Murphy's run-scoring 
groundout. 

Cubs  starter Carlos  Villanueva lasted four innings and gave up three runs on 
three hits and three walks. 

Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro says he's close to rejoining the team.  Castro played in a minor-league game on Monday and was in the field for the first time since suffering a hamstring strain on March 2nd.  The 24-year-old says he feels good and is ready to take the next step. 

Cardinals Fall To Mets

Port  St.  Lucie, FL (SportsNetwork.com)  - Daisuke Matsuzaka tossed six solid 
innings and Daniel Murphy delivered a two-run double in the New York Mets' 5-3 
Grapefruit League win over the St. Louis Cardinals. 

Matsuzaka  held the Cardinals to just one run on three hits while striking out 
five, with Murphy finishing 2-for-3 at the plate to pace the offense. 

Shelby  Miller was touched for three runs while fanning four and walking three 
over  five innings for St. Louis, while Shane Robinson went 2-for-4 with a run 
scored in the loss. 

Gibson and Bulls take down Pacers

Chicago,  IL (SportsNetwork.com)  - Taj Gibson scored a game-high 23 points on 
9-of-15 shooting off the bench, and the Chicago Bulls grinded out an 89-77 win 
over the Eastern Conference-leading Indiana Pacers at United Center. 

Kirk  Hinrich  checked in with  18 points, Mike  Dunleavy netted 13 and Joakim 
Noah again filled the box score with 10 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, 
four steals and three blocks despite dealing with foul trouble. 

Paul  George  needed 22 shots  to put  up 21 points  in a losing effort, while 
George Hill and David West contributed 17 and 14 points, respectively. 

The Pacers could have wrapped up the Central Division title but shot just 37.0 
percent from the floor in losing for the third time in four games. 

The  one  win came against  Chicago on Friday, but  they followed that up with 
their lowest scoring output of the season in an 82-71 setback in Memphis. 

Indiana again struggled putting points up on Monday despite scoring the game's 
first  seven points,  with the  seven-point lead  serving as  the largest  for 
either squad prior to Chicago's resurgence early in the third quarter. 

The Bulls shot just 31.8 percent from the floor in the first half, including a 
1-for-10  effort from  behind the arc, and went into halftime trailing, 34-33, 
after Hill beat the buzzer with a 3-pointer. 

Adjustments were apparently made in the locker room as Chicago scored on seven 
of  its first eight  possessions out of the break en route to a 14-3 run, with 
Dunleavy providing half of the offense. 

A  Hinrich 3-pointer brought  the margin to a dozen, 55-43, and it was a 64-56 
Bulls  lead  heading to the fourth  thanks to Chicago making 59.1 percent (13- 
of-22) of their shots in the frame. 

Hill's  three-point  play with 4:30 on  the clock got the Pacers within 77-71, 
but Indiana went the next three minutes without making a bucket. 

Hinrich  bookended an 8-2 run with a pair of successful drives to the rim, and 
the Bulls held on for their third win in four games. 

                                   Game Notes 

Indiana  heads into Wednesday's game against the Miami Heat two games ahead of 
the  defending champions  in the  East  standings ...  Noah led  the Bulls  in 
assists  for  the  10th  time  in  the last  11  games  ...  Indiana  came  in 
surrendering  an NBA-low 91.9  ppg and the Bulls were right behind at 92.1 ... 
The  Pacers turned  it over 16 times  and forced 10 turnovers ... Chicago shot 
3-of-5  from the  perimeter  in the  second half  ...  These Central  Division 
rivals split the four-game season series, with each winning twice on their own 
home floor. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-25-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Cory D. Virden, 31, of 1014 East 2nd Street, Pana, was arrested on March 25 for an out of state warrant.

Reynaldo Rodriguez, 20, of 411 Western Avenue, was arrested on March 25 on a warrant for illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor.

Carlie A. Davis, 18, of 72 East 1000 North Road, Morrisonville, was arrested on March 25 on a warrant for illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor.

Tyler J. Brandis, 20, of 809 Pauline Street, Taylorville, was arrested on March 25 on a warrant for illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor.

Nicholas A. Edwards, 32, of 304 South Curtis Street, Edinburg, was arrested on March 24 on a bond forfeiture for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Robert C. Zahradka, 39, of 415 Grant Street, Pana, was arrested on March 24 on a warrant for violating an order of protection.


THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

On March 22, Taylorville Police Department received a call in reference to a child custody and child exchange matter. Officers returned the call and advised the complainant, Thomas S. Lovelace, 49, of Taylorville to come to post to discuss the matter further. Following Lovelace's behavior and actions taken at post, Lovelace was placed under arrest for threatening a public official and resisting arrest. Lovelace was later released on a notice to appear in court.

On March 24, a Taylorville Police Department officer was patrolling East Esther Street and observed a blue GMC pick-up truck. The officer ran the vehicle's license plate thru the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System. The return showed the owner, Wendy M. Chamness, 33, of Taylorville, was suspended. The officer stopped the vehicle on Route 48 just south of McAdams Street. The officer confirmed the driver was Chamness and placed her under arrest for driving suspended.

CRASHES:

On March 24, James C. Luetzow, 17, of Taylorville was traveling northbound on Cheney Street. Luetzow struck a parked trailer that was parked on the right side of the road. The trailer was pushed up into a driveway and struck a parked vehicle causing front driver's side door damage. Luetzow was issued a citation for obstructed windshield.

On March 20, Thomas L. Fitzpatrick, 37, of Pana and Dawn M. Walch, 46, of Taylorville were stopped in traffic. An unknown vehicle struck the rear end of Fitzpatrick pushing him into Walch. The vehicle left the scene without rendering information. Fitzpatrick later went to a hospital for treatment of injuries. No other injuries reported.

Fire Department Calls 3-25-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 24
2 EMS, 1 Illegal Burn

Village of Kincaid Decides Duties of Village Clerk

In what should have been a tame meeting, the Trustees and Mayor of Kincaid met in special session to determine the necessary duties, hours and pay of the Village Clerk to be hired. The Village is in need of a clerk in the  wake of the firing of previous clerk Cindy Orrison. Orrison was fired during a heated meeting earlier this month that saw the mayor and chief of police under fire and the many in attendance taking sides.

It was determined by the Trustees that applications would be taken March 25th through April 4th. A special meeting will be held on April 7th at 7 pm  to review the applications with a possible hire to be made during the regular board meeting on April 14th.

There was much discussion about the duties of the Village Clerk being very extensive and that since the firing of Orrison, the village had to hire outside agencies to help with some of the payroll and taxes. It was mentioned by one of the trustees that someone should learn the processes in addition to the clerk just in case there was ever another time that the village was without a clerk. It was suggested by on attendee that perhaps the trustees should all learn the process.

Many in attendance wanted to discuss other issues, but Attorney Fines reminded everyone that the sole purpose of the meeting was to determine the requirements of the Village Clerk.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:25.

4H Day with the Cardinals

The local 4H will soon be entering a busy time of year.  One of the first events of the spring season will be a trip to St. Louis to see the Cardinals play according to Publicity Director for the University of Illinois Extension, Terri Miller:

[audio:miller4h.mp3]comment here[/audio]

While the deadline to sign up is April 7th, Miller suggests you act quickly as the tickets have a history of selling out.  Call the local Extension office at 287-7246.

Breakfast Really is the Most Important Meal

You’ve heard it said, and it’s true: breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  Joyce Fikri, spokesperson for the St. Louis Area Dairy Council, says it’s a good idea to get your family into the breakfast habit:

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

Fikri also says it’s important to get at least 3 servings of dairy products every day.

Informational Seminar on New Senior Life Solutions Program Thursday

The Taylorville Police Department and TRIAD will be hosting a free informational seminar through the Taylorville Memorial Hospital this Thursday at 9:30am. Amy Graham, of Taylorville Memorial Hospital, will be presenting information on the new Senior Life Solutions program. This seminar will be held in the lower level conference room at the Taylorville Municipal Building with refreshments being provided. Again that will be this Thursday at 9:30am.

BMDD Resorts Backs Out of Eagle Creek Resort Project

The restoration of the Eagle Creek Resort in Findlay has taken a step backwards after the Decatur based company BMDD Resorts vacated the property. Illinois Department of Natural Resources Spokesperson Chris Young tells Regional Radio News what is next for the resort:

Stingy Blues shut down Penguins

Pittsburgh,  PA  (SportsNetwork.com) -  Brian Elliott stopped  all 33 shots he 
faced  and  St. Louis turned  in a textbook defensive  effort in a 1-0 victory 
over Pittsburgh on Sunday afternoon at CONSOL Energy Center. 

Elliott's  whitewash was  the  fourth of  the  season and  his  16th with  the 
franchise,  tying him with Hall of Fame netminder Glenn Hall for second on the 
club's all-time list. 

"I  saw a lot [of shots]. Obviously, the ones I didn't, the guys were blocking 
and made big sacrifices in front of me," Elliott said. "When you're in a tight 
game  like that against a good team, the guys kind of rose up to the challenge 
and  I tried  to make a couple saves  and get the rebounds out of the zone and 
they did the rest." 

David  Backes recorded  the  lone score  of  the contest  for  the Blues,  who 
recovered from losses in Chicago and Philadelphia to win for the ninth time in 
12 March outings. 

St.  Louis also  moved into a tie with  idle Boston for the most points in the 
NHL at 103. 

Marc-Andre Fleury made 26 saves for the Penguins, who were blanked on home ice 
for the first time since a similar result against Colorado on Oct. 21. 

"We  had the  right mentality," noted Pittsburgh defenseman Matt Niskanen. "We 
knew  how  they were going to  play. We were ready  for it. I thought we did a 
pretty good job of doing what we wanted to. That's how it's going to be in the 
postseason.  Things are  going to be tight  and I thought we did a pretty good 
job today except for finding a goal." 

Shortly  after letting  a power-play  chance fall  by the  wayside, the Blue
picked up the game's first goal. 

Evgeni  Malkin was in the box for a high stick, and had exited when Alex Steen 
fired  a rolling  puck from the point  which sailed through a screen set up by 
T.J. Oshie in the slot. The puck was tipped by Backes in front and caromed off 
Fleury's glove before settling into the net at 11:20 of the third period. 

"I  don't want  to  give you  all of  my  secrets, but  if  I was  in a  skill 
competition  with  those two  guys I'm  going to  lose 100  times out of 100," 
Backes said of besting Sidney Crosby and Malkin. 

Blues  defenseman Jay Bouwmeester tripped Malkin and was banished with 4:44 to 
play,  but Fleury needed  to make two stops and the Blues formed a wall around 
Elliott for the duration. 

Fleury  went to the bench for an extra skater with 1:20 left, but James Neal's 
shot from the right side with 16.3 seconds left was Pittsburgh's best and last 
chance. 

Despite  a scoreless opening 20 minutes, the Penguins enjoyed 1:38 of a 5-on-3 
advantage bridging the first and second periods after Oshie and Jaden Schwartz 
were whistled for infractions 22 seconds apart. 

"It  would have  been nice to get  one on the power play," Pens captain Crosby 
said  of his  club going 0-for-5 one day after converting 3-of-6 against Tampa 
Bay.  "Obviously that's  the big  story  here. We  battled and  didn't find  a 
way to score." 

St. Louis closed ranks, though, and allowed a few shots on goal which were not 
quality chances. 

The  hosts failed to click on two more power plays and the Blues on their lone 
advantage to maintain the deadlock. 

Elliott halted 23 shots and Fleury was good on 18 chances heading to the final 
period. 

                                   Game Notes 

St.  Louis has  won four of its  last six games in Pittsburgh since January of 
2002,  and  has taken  both meetings against  the Pens in  their new arena ... 
Blues  forward Derek Roy was scratched with a lower-body injury ... Fleury has 
been  stuck on  34 wins since blanking  the Capitals on March 11 ... St. Louis 
upped its record against Eastern Conference foes to 20-5-1 ... Backes recorded 
his 156th goal for the Blues, tying him with Brendan Shanahan for ninth on the 
club's all-time list. 

Rinne, Preds blank Blackhawks

Chicago,  IL  (SportsNetwork.com) -  Pekka Rinne  made 29  saves for his first 
shutout of the season in the Nashville Predators' 2-0 victory over the Chicago 
Blackhawks on Sunday. 

Mike  Fisher and Gabriel Bourque scored for the Predators, who went 2-2-0 on a 
four-game road trip. 

Corey  Crawford  stopped 15-of-17  shots for  the Blackhawks,  who now sit six 
points  behind  St. Louis for  first place in  the Central Division. The Blues 
beat the Penguins earlier Sunday. 

The  Predators took a 1-0 lead at 18:38 of the first period when Fisher tipped 
in Ryan Ellis' slap pass. 

Rinne made 11 saves over the first 20 minutes to preserve the one-goal margin. 

"He's  been  playing  well for  us  lately,"  Ellis  said  of Rinne.  "He  was 
outstanding. Great job for him to get the shutout." 

Bourque  gave  Nashville a 2-0 edge  at 17:35 of  the middle stanza. He took a 
pass  from Calle  Jarnkrok and  headed  up ice  before scoring  from the  left 
circle. 

Rinne made nine saves in each of the final two frames to preserve the victory. 

"They  do  a good job  of keeping  you on the  outside and preventing you from 
getting  to  the  net,"  Chicago  head coach  Joel  Quenneville  said  of  the 
Predators. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  Predators have taken three of four against the Blackhawks this season ... 
Rinne  recorded his  31st  career  shutout ...  Chicago  forward Brandon  Saad 
returned  on Sunday after missing three games with an upper-body injury. Bryan 
Bickell  and Michal  Rozsival remained  out for  the Blackhawks  ... Nashville 
forwards   Patric   Hornqvist  (personal),   Paul  Gaustad  (upper  body)  and 
Patrick Eaves (lower body) missed the game ... Predators defenseman Seth Jones 
left the game with an upper-body injury ... The Blackhawks went 0-for-4 on the 
power play. 

Sox Tie With Rockies

Scottsdale,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Adam Eaton and Paul Konerko drove in one 
run  apiece as the  Chicago White Sox and Colorado Rockies played to a 5-5 tie 
on Sunday. 

Blake  Tekotte added two  hits and an RBI while Tyler Flowers and Leury Garcia 
drove in one run apiece for the White Sox, who saw starter Jose Quintana allow 
just one hit over five scoreless frames. 

Brandon  Barnes,  Jordan Pacheco and Jackson  Williams drove in one run apiece 
for  the Rockies.  Colorado starter Tyler Chatwood was tagged for five runs on 
10 hits over 5 1/3 innings. 

Lake Blasts Cubs Past A's

Phoenix,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Junior  Lake clubbed three home runs, Luis 
Valbuena  added two  solo homers  and the  Chicago Cubs  posted a  10-6 Cactus 
League victory over the Oakland Athletics. 

Lake belted a three-run blast to highlight a five-run sixth inning, hit a two- 
run shot in the seventh and went back-to-back with Valbuena for a second time 
in the ninth. 

Chicago  starter Jason Hammel  gave up two runs on eight hits and walked three 
in 4 2/3 innings. 

Nate  Freiman knocked  in two  runs for  Oakland, while  starter Jesse  Chavez 
allowed five runs on seven hits and struck out six in 5 2/3 innings. 

Cardinals Drop Astros; Send Three To Minors

(Jupiter, FL)  --  Joe Kelly tossed five-plus innings of two-run ball as the Cardinals topped the Astros 6-3 in Jupiter yesterday.  Kelly moved to 2-and-1 in the spring.  Matt Holliday and Matt Adams each hit a homer during a four-run third inning for St. Louis.  Trevor Rosenthal picked up his second save.  The Cards clash with the Mets today. 

The Cardinals continue to cut down their roster in the spring.  The Cards sent lefty reliever Sam Freeman and outfielder Joey Butler to Triple-A Memphis.  St. Louis shipped Cuban infielder Aledmys Diaz to Double-A Springfield.  The Cardinals have one spot left in the bullpen for their seventh reliever.  They are still deciding on Jorge Rondon, Keith Butler and Scott McGregor. 

CRIME OF THE WEEK FOR MARCH 24. 2014

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

Sometime during the overnight hours of  Sunday March 16, 2014, person or persons unknown damaged a door at Classic Bouquet, located at 321 North Madison Street in Taylorville.  The unknown subject or subjects damaged the door and door frame in a possible attempt to make entry.   There appeared to be nothing inside damaged or missing.  The total dollar amount of damage 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. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-24-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Delaney S. Dilley, 21, of 205 East 5th Street, Pana, was arrested March 21 on a bond forfeiture for retail theft.

Tara A. Decker, 29, of 521 North Pine Street Apt C, Nokomis, was arrested March 21 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear.

George E. Riley, 38, of 1221 East Maywood, Peoria, was arrested March 21 on a bond firfeiture for failure to appear.

Kassandra L. Rhodes, 20, of 1465 North 930 East Road, Langleyville, was arrested March 22 for consumption of alcohol by a minor.

Shawn T. Davis, 18, of 308 East Washington Street, Edinburg, was arrested March 22 for zero tolerance alcohol (625 5/11-501.8)

Billy J. Standage, 39, of 1121 North Tenth, Springfield, was arrested March 22 on a warrant for forgery.

Lorenzo C. Harper, 24, of 1335 North Clinton Street, Decatur, was arrested March 22 on a warrant for possession of an amount of a controlled substance and for battery/causing bodily harm.

Frederick J. Tremain, 37, of 1051 West Calhoun Street, Springfield, was arrested March 24 on a bond forfeiture for harassment by telephone.

 

THE PANA POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

After a traffic stop on March 21, Chad R. Hammond, 41, of Shelbyville was issued a citation for driving while licensed revoked. Hammond was issued a notice to appear in court and released.

Following a complaint on March 21 from an employee at Dollar General, two female juveniles (ages 14 and 15) were taken into custody for retail theft. They were processed and released to their parents.

Following a traffic stop on March 23, George R. Wehner, 47, of Springfield was issued a citation for speeding 64 MPH in a 45 MPH zone.

Fire Department Calls 3-24-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 21
4 Brush Fires, 2 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm

March 22
1 Brush Fire, 1 EMS

March 23
4 EMS, 1 Smoke Detector, 1

March 24
1 Fire, 1 EMS

Taylorville High School Postpones Baseball/Softball Games Today and Tomorrow

Monday:
 
Varsity Baseball:  Tuesday at Springfield HS  4:30 pm  at Chamberlain Park  Tuesday is postponed to THURSDAY 3/27
 
Soph Baseball:  Game Tuesday at Springfield HS - LLCC back field  Postponed to THURSDAY 3/27
 
Freshmen Baseball: 1st game Saturday April 12 at SHG.  May schedule something sooner if something pops up.
 
Varsity Softball:  Game today vs. Eisenhower  4:30 pm Monday is Postponed to April 7.   Tuesday's game is postponed to Friday 3/28.
 
Soph Softball:  Game today vs. Eisenhower  6:00 pm       Monday is Postponed to April 7.  Tuesday is postponed to Friday 3/28
 
Tuesday:

Tuesday March 25, 2014 Baseball and Softball Central State Eight games have been postponed.  The baseball games will be made up on Thursday March 27 at the same times and locations.   The Softball games will be made up on Friday March 28 at the same location and time.


For weather updates throughout the Spring sports season, click the link below:
 

Shelbyville High School Students of the Month for March

 width=450 height=338 /></p>						</div>

						<!-- BUTTON OPTIONS-->
											</div>
				</div>
			</article>
			
		    			
			
			
						<article class=

Taylorville Park Board Approves Resolution to Open Bank Accounts

The Taylorville Park Board was presented with a resolution to authorize the opening of bank accounts at CNB Bank & Trust and First National Bank on Spresser. Secretary/Bookkeeper MaryAnn Becker explains why this is being done:

[audio:beckerbanks032514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Board approved the resolution unanimously.

 

The Taylorville Park Board heard some more good news in regards to last summer’s lifeguard and pool crew. After receiving outstanding marks on all their audits throughout the season, Recreation Director Bailey Hancock told the Board they just received an award for it:

[audio:hancockaward032514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hancock says they had over 40 rescues and the crew was well deserving of the award.

 

The Taylorville Park Board received a thank you letter from the Christian County Genealogical Society. President Marlane Miller read the letter to the Board:

[audio:millerletter032514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Board then approved a $1,000 donation to the group.

 

The Board was informed that the thirty day notice for public inspection for the Fiscal Year  2014-15 budget has begun and the budget will be voted on at the next meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 7:22pm

Judge Erika Sanders Speaks to Shelbyville Rotary Club

 width=

Left to Right: Judge Erika Sanders, Member Liz Nohren

The Shelbyville Rotary Club heard some great news at their weekly meeting. Treasurer Jim Bolinger announced that they have enough donations for members to contribute to the Rotary International Polio Plus which allows the Club to select a member for the Paul Harris Fellowship Award.

 

Member Ted Bogart challenged club members to come up with another community service project that the Shelbyville Rotary Club could provide. Liz Nohren reminded the Club of the upcoming Rotary Scholarship Award in which one graduating high school student is awarded a $500.

 

Nohren was the program chairman for the meeting and her keynote speaker was Judge Erika Sanders. Judge Sanders provided the club with information about the Problems Court which deals with mental illness and addiction and how the court provides programs and resources to help keep offenders out of jail and allow them to be rehabilitated to be useful members of society. She described how the high cost of incarcerating offenders could be offset by giving these individuals an opportunity to be treated for their drug addictions and given motivation to follow medical treatment for their mental illness.

 

Kevin Ray is the program chairman for the next meeting.

Boldig: New Irrigation System at Lakeshore Will Be Huge Improvement

Plans for the new irrigation system at Lakeshore Golf Course in Taylorville continue to move along. General Manager Jason Boldig tells Regional Radio News about the new system and the benefits it will bring to Lakeshore:

[audio:boldigirrigation032114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Boldig says they plan to start construction in the fall to avoid interrupting this golf season and if everything goes well, it will take approximately 3 months to complete.

Snowfall in February and March Add on to Already Above Normal Totals

It’s been a snowy winter in Illinois this year. By early February, snowfall totals were well above their normal average but snow in late February and early March elevated those totals even more in Central Illinois. Effingham has now seen 35.4 inches this year compared to a 15.2 inches average. This year is tied for the 7th snowiest winter in Effingham with the snowiest coming in 1977-78 when 40.6"inches fell. Springfield has seen a total 45.0 inches compared to an average of 20.9 inches. This is the third snowiest winter in Springfield with the snowiest also being in 1977-78 when 52.1" fell. Many other Central Illinois towns have seen snowfall 20-30 inches above the average.

IDOT Announces Route 51 Public Hearings

The Illinois Department of Transportation will hold a series of open house public hearings to present the remaining alternatives of US 51 from the Christian/Shelby County line to the Village of Irvington in Washington County.  The general scope of work for this improvement is to widen and reconstruct the two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided expressway. The project may affect Oconee, Ramsey, Vandalia, Shobonier, Patoka, Vernon, Sandoval, Central City, Centralia, and Wamac. The first public hearing will be this Wednesday from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at the Centralia American Best Value Inn on 209 West Bond Avenue in Centralia.

        

Date:               Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Time:               4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m

Location:          Patoka Civic Center

                       200 E. Noleman Street

                       Patoka, IL, 62875

 

Date:               Thursday, March 27, 2014                            

Time:               4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.                                    

Location:          Sandoval Village Hall                                     

                       132 E. Commercial Avenue                                                  

                       Sandoval, IL  62882                                                               

 

 

Date:               Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Time:               4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Location:          Mother of Dolors Parish Center

                       322 N. 7th Street

                       Vandalia, Illinois 62471

 

 

Date:               Thursday, April 3, 2014

Time:               4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Location:          Ramsey Elementary School

                       610 W. 6th Street

                       Ramsey, IL 62080

Village of Kincaid to Hold Special Meeting

The Village of Kincaid will be holding a special meeting this Monday at 7:00pm at the Kincaid City Hall. The Board of Trustees will be discussing the hiring of a new Village Clerk. At their meeting on March 10th, the Board voted to terminate the employment of then Village Clerk Cindy Orrison for allegedly messing up pay/overtime and violating the Open Meetings Act. Orrison’s dismissal was effective immediately. Again, that meeting will be Monday at 7:00pm.

Sheriff: Rash of Burglaries Hits County

Don't forget to lock up your house and car.  Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says there has been a rash of burglaries in recent weeks, especially in the Pana area:

[audio:sheriffpanaburglars032014.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Sheriff says most people are honest, but a small percentage of people are not.

Heberling to be Honored

 width=200 height=286 /></p>						</div>

						<!-- BUTTON OPTIONS-->
											</div>
				</div>
			</article>
			
		    			
			
			
						<article class=

Cubs Lose To Seattle

Mesa,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  -  Dustin Ackley  had three  hits  to back  six 
shutout  innings from  Erasmo Ramirez  as the  Seattle Mariners  posted a  3-0 
Cactus League victory over the Chicago Cubs. 

Ramirez scattered four hits and struck out four while walking none. 

Kyle Seager and John Buck each had a sacrifice fly for Seattle. 

Cubs  starter  Jeff Samardzija  allowed two  runs on six  hits, walked two and 
fanned eight in 5 1/3 innings. 

Cardinals Fall To Marlins

Jupiter, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Marcell Ozuna smacked a solo home run in the 
sixth  inning for the  decisive run to give the Miami Marlins a 4-3 Grapefruit 
League win over the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday. 

Adeiny  Hechavarria went  2-for-2 with an RBI, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Derek 
Dietrich  provided the  other RBI  to round  out the  scoring for  Miami. Jose 
Fernandez fanned eight, but gave up three runs over six innings on the hill. 

Jon  Jay,  Daniel Descalso and  Peter Bourjos picked up  an RBI apiece for the 
Cardinals. Lance Lynn surrendered three runs over four innings of work. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-21-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPROTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Thomas Munoz, 46, of 127 East Madison Street, Divernon, was arrested March 20 for aggravated domestic battery.

Fire Department Calls 3-21-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 20
2 EMS, 2 Brush Fire, 1 Fire

March 21
1 EMS

WMKR March of Dimes March for Babies Radiothon Raises $2305

 width=

(From the left:  Shannon Mathis, executive director of the Springfield office of the March of Dimes; and Sheri Miller of the Miller Media Group.)

Miller Media Group radio station WMKR Genuine Country 94-point-3 held its second annual March of Dimes March for Babies Radiothon yesterday. The event raised just over 23-hundred dollars to help babies before and after they’re born.

Shannon Mathis, executive director of the March of Dimes Springfield office, says the money helps them cover a large geographical area:

[audio:mathismoney032114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Miller Media Group’s Sheri Miller, captain of Team Princess Alexis, explains why she is raising the money:

[audio:millerreason032114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

You can support Team Princess Alexis and the March of Dimes by donating on-line at teamprincessalexis.com.

 

New Segment Opens on WTIM

A new program debuted Wednesday on Regional Radio. Featuring Steve Henry of CSH Investments, the bi-monthly program airs on Wednesdays. Henry says he hopes the program will deal with topics not traditionally covered in the media:

[audio:henrycshnewshow031914.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The program airs on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays each month. Contact CSH Investment Management at 824-4211.

Mobile Food Pantry Saturday

4300 Christian County residents are what is known as "food insecure".  That means they don't know where their next meal is coming from.  Krista Lisser, Public Relations Manager for the Central Illinois Foodbank, says the Mobile Food Pantry will pay a visit this weekend:

[audio:lissermobilepantry031914.mp3]comment here[/audio]

There are no pre-qualifications for those who need the goods.  Again, the Mobile Food Pantry will be at Taylorville High School Saturday from 10am until noon.  You're advised to get there early, as the food is distributed on a first-come first-served basis.

White Sox Fall To Angels

Glendale,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Mike Trout  went 1-for-2 with a homer and 
two  runs scored to help the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim to a 14-10 win over 
the Chicago  White Sox in Cactus League play. 

Ian  Stewart also homered for the Angels, who also received an RBI apiece from 
Josh  Hamilton, Albert  Pujols and Erick Aybar. David Freese knocked in two in 
the win, while starter Tyler Skaggs went 4 1/3 innings and allowed five earned 
runs on seven hits with three walks and two strikeouts. 

Jose Abreu, Matt Davidson and Jordan Danks all homered for Chicago, with Abreu 
and  Davidson each  knocking in  three runs. White Sox  starter Erik  Johnson 
allowed eight runs -- seven earned -- over four innings of work. 

Cubs Fall To Rockies

Scottsdale, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Charlie Blackmon hit a walk-off three-run 
homer  in the  bottom of the ninth to  lift Colorado Rockies to a 9-6 win over 
the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday. 

Carlos  Gonzalez  also hit a  three-run home run  in the win. Colorado starter 
Franklin  Morales  allowed one  unearned  run  over  four innings  with  three 
strikeouts and three walks in the win. 

Luis  Valbuena and  Javier Baez  each hit  solo shots  for Chicago,  which saw 
starter  Carlos Villanueva  go four innings and allow three runs on three hits 
with eight strikeouts. 

Cardinals Top Twins

Jupiter, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Matt Adams went 2-for-3 with a solo home run 
to  help lead the St. Louis Cardinals to a 3-1 win over the Minnesota Twins in 
Grapefruit League action. 

Randal  Grichuk had an  RBI double and Peter Bourjos scored on a wild pitch to 
account  for the Cardinals'  final two  runs. Carlos  Martinez  lasted 5  1/3 
innings, striking out four and giving up one run. 

Jason Bartlett picked up the lone RBI for the Twins with a single. Kyle Gibson 
surrendered one run on four hits in 4 1/3 innings of work. 

Bulls tack on another loss to Sixers' skid

Philadelphia,  PA (SportsNetwork.com)  - Eight days and four games is what the 
Philadelphia 76ers have left. 

That's  how much time  they have to get a win or face tying the type of record 
even  a  team in the midst  of a rebuild doesn't  want to touch with a 10-foot 
hoop. 

The Sixers' team-record losing streak reached 22 games Wednesday night after a 
late run against another top Eastern Conference team fell short. 

D.J. Augustin scored 20 off the bench, hitting a couple of key 3-pointers down 
the  stretch, and  the Chicago Bulls held on  for a 102-94 win in the first of 
two meetings between the teams in four days. 

Taj  Gibson added 19  points and 13 rebounds for Chicago -- also off the bench 
-- and Jimmy Butler scored 16. 

The Bulls, who have won three of four, became the second playoff-bound team in 
three days to avoid a loss to the Sixers. 

The  East-leading Indiana  Pacers needed a late run to beat Philadelphia 99-90 
on Monday. 

"They  play tough.  They don't go away," said Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau. "They 
keep coming." 

The  Sixers are within four losses of Cleveland's NBA-record streak of 26 in a 
row set during the 2010-11 season. 

Winless  since beating Boston  on Jan. 29, they got a spark off the bench from 
Byron  Mullens, whose  10 points in the fourth quarter included consecutive 3- 
pointers to get them within one. 

They  tied the game for the first time since 28-28 early in the second quarter 
on a Thaddeus Young 3-pointer moments later but missed their next three shots. 

Butler and Augustin then hit consecutive 3-pointers for a six-point Bulls lead 
with  under  six minutes left  and Augustin kept it  at six with another three 
later on. 

The  Sixers got within  four twice, the last time on a two-handed Mullens dunk 
in transition. Wroten had a layup dangle on the rim -- inches from making it a 
two-point  game -- but Joakim Noah swatted it away. Butler made a pair of foul 
shots at the other end with 24 seconds left, and that was that. 

The teams will play again in Chicago on Saturday. 

"The  energy was  there," said  Mullens. "Of  course it  always helps  to make 
shots, but it was a tough loss for us. It was a really good game. We just have 
to play like that every night." 

The  Sixers,  led by Young's 24  points, missed 10  of their 19 foul shots and 
were  outrebounded 52-38.  Wroten didn't miss a 3-pointer until the fourth and 
scored 17, ending 4-for-6 from deep. 

Michael Carter-Williams had 16 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for the 
Sixers,  but the rookie point guard also showed his youth on a turnover in the 
last  seconds when he left his feet in the paint with nowhere to go and landed 
without a pass. 

How long has it been since the Sixers last won? Their victory over the Celtics 
came  after Even  Turner, who now plays for Indiana, hit an off-balance jumper 
at the buzzer. It was four days before the Super Bowl and nine days before the 
opening ceremony of the Sochi Olympics. 

Chicago led by as many as 11 points in the first half and were up 52-45 at the 
break. The Bulls took a 75-69 lead into the fourth quarter. 

                                   Game Notes 

Mullens scored 12 ... The Sixers have also lost a team-record 17 in a row at 
home. They host the Knicks on Friday ... The Bulls play at Indiana, also on 
Friday. 

Blackhawks Blank Blues; Quenneville Joins 700-Win Club

Chicago,  IL (SportsNetwork.com) - Corey Crawford stopped 23 shots to post his 
second  shutout of the  season, and four different players lit the lamp as the 
Chicago Blackhawks  shut down  the St. Louis  Blues by a  4-0 count at United 
Center. 

"Tonight we knew it was going to be a tough matchup," Crawford said. "It seems 
like  it's always  physical against these guys. The first 10 minutes, everyone 
was  just running  around trying to hit  somebody to trying to avoid a hit. It 
felt like a playoff game, a playoff-type atmosphere. Our crowd was into it and 
we played really solidly." 

Duncan  Keith, Marcus  Kruger,  Andrew  Shaw and  Ben  Smith  tallied for  the 
Blackhawks,  who rallied  from a late overtime loss in Philadelphia on Tuesday 
to  post their  second win in three  outings and move into second place in the 
Central Division, one point up on Colorado. 

The Avalanche lost, 5-4 in overtime at Winnipeg. 

Patrick  Sharp and Nick  Leddy added a pair of assists for Chicago, which lost 
Patrick  Kane to an undisclosed leg injury in the second period. Following the 
contest, the club announced Kane is expected to miss three weeks. 

"Certainly  he's a  special player and we'll  have to work our way through it, 
knowing  what  he  brings  to  our team,"  said Blackhawks  head  coach  Joel 
Quenneville, of the misfortune that punctuated his 700th career victory. "It's 
definitely  a huge loss for us, but we've been fortunate as far as not getting 
hit too hard. You're going to get tested at some point." 

Ryan Miller allowed four scores on 27 shots in almost 48 minutes of action for 
the  Blues,  who lost for  just the second  time in the  last 10 and saw their 
lead in the Central shrink to six points over their bitter rivals. 

St.  Louis  picked up its first  intra-division loss in 23 games (20-1-2) this 
season. 

Keith  opened the scoring on his point blast that ticked off the left post and 
in  during a  Chicago power  play  with 54.4  seconds remaining  in the  first 
period. 

Chicago  went  up 2-0 as 4:25  remained on the second-period clock, when Leddy 
fired away from near the blue line and Shaw redirected the puck with the shaft 
of his stick past a stunned Miller. 

Peter  Regin and Kruger worked a give-and-go in close, with the latter pushing 
a  rolling puck  home from the right side  at 5:20 of the third period to give 
the hosts a three-goal margin. 

On  the  following shift,  St. Louis  forward Dmitrij Jaskin  was sent off for 
hooking  and the Blackhawks increased their lead by one when Smith deposited a 
loose puck on the doorstep at 7:35. 

"They're  the  Stanley Cup champions for  a reason," Blues coach Ken Hitchcock 
said.  "They know when to turn the temperature up. It's our responsibility, no 
matter  what happens in the regular season, if you're going to give them a go, 
you're  going to have  to dial it up. They're getting ready. And it's up to us 
to get ready. That's the task." 

                                   Game Notes 

Quenneville  earned his 262nd win as Chicago bench boss, joining Scotty Bowman 
(1,244)  and Al  Arbour (782) as the only  members of the 700 club as NHL head 
coach  ...  Miller, who suffered  his first loss as  a Blue, allowed more than 
three  goals in  one appearance  for  the first  time since  being dealt  from 
Buffalo  on  Feb. 28  ... Brandon  Saad was scratched  for the second straight 
game  ... Prior  to the  game,  the Blues  agreed  to terms  on a  three-year, 
entry-level  contract with  forward Zach Pochiro ... Blackhawks forward Michal 
Handzus  participated in  his 1,000th NHL contest and was honored in a pregame 
ceremony. He began his career playing for Quenneville in St. Louis. 

Illinois Edges Boston In NIT Opener

Boston,  MA  (SportsNetwork.com) -  Rayvonte Rice  poured in  28 points as the 
Illinois  Fighting Illini  used  a  second half  surge  to  down  the  Boston 
University  Terriers, 66-62,  in the  first round  of the  National Invitation 
Tournament at Agganis Arena. 

Rice knocked down 11-of-14 shots from the floor and pulled down eight rebounds 
for  Illinois (20-14), which will take on Clemson in the second round. Malcolm 
Hill posted 10 points and eight boards in the victory. 

D.J.  Irving  paced the Terriers  (24-11) with  17 points on 5-of-7 efficiency 
from the field, while John Papale and Dom Morris chipped in 10 points apiece. 

Boston  took a 33-24  lead into the intermission after it made 40.7 percent of 
its  field  goal attempts, including a  7-of-15 clip from 3-point range in the 
opening  20  minutes of the  contest. The Illini  were limited to 40.9 percent 
shooting  from the  floor and hit on  only 2-of-8 tries from beyond the arc in 
the first half. 

Illinois  heated up to sink 58.3 percent of its field goal tries in the second 
stanza  while the  Terriers shot 44.4 percent from the floor. Boston led 55-45 
with  just over  nine minutes remaining in regulation, but the visitors scored 
the next eight points to make it a one possession game by the 5:44 mark of the 
second  stanza. Rice  tallied seven consecutive points to help Illinois take a 
64-61  lead with  just under a minute  left before the final buzzer and Boston 
could not manage to score another point the rest of the way. 

The Illini  enjoyed a 35-23  edge in the  rebounding battle and outscored the 
Terriers, 24-16, in the paint. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-20-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Daniel E. McNeely, 30, of 1257 Bridon Lane, Taylorville, was arrested March 20 for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Chloe L. Windell, 19, of 516 Taylorville Boulevard, Taylorville, was arrested March 20 on a bond forfeiture for resisting a peace office/correctional employee

Tawny L. Thomas, 18, of 101 South Maple Street, Stonington, was arrested March 20 on a bond forfeiture for consumption of liquor by a minor.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPOTS THE FOLLOWING CRASHES:

On March 19, a 16-year-old female of Pana stated she had to slam on her brakes to avoid striking a van that had stopped abruptly in front of her and turned into a private drive. Another 16-year-old female from Pana could not stop in time and struck the rear of the first 16-year-old. The second female was rear-ended by a third vehicle. However the driver of the third vehicle inspected their damage and left before officer arrived. Both females reported the van was driving in a erratic matter. No injuries reported.

Colonoscopy an Important Procedure

March is National Colon Cancer Awareness month, and one Central Illinois hospital is ready to address the situation.  Staff RN for Special Procedures at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon, Valerie Burroughs says it's important for everybody:

[audio:burroughsvaleriecolonoscopy031914.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Burroughs says lifestyle also plays a part in colon cancer.  Not getting enough exercise, not eating right and smoking and drinking can all put you at higher risk.  Call Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon at 258-2190.

Mense Wins Democratic Primary for Christian County Clerk

Laurie Mense beat out Greg Hager in the democratic primary for Christian County Clerk. Mense, who finished with 67% of the votes, tells Regional Radio News that she didn’t expect to win by a large margin:

[audio:menseprimarywin031814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

At this point, Mense will run unopposed in the November election. 

Rodney Davis Wins Republican Primary

Congressman Rodney Davis of Taylorville won the Republican Primary for the 13th Congressional District by beating out Erika Harold and Michael Firsching. Davis tells Regional Radio News he is grateful to the voters:

A's Rock White Sox

Glendale,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  - Jed Lowrie hit a three-run homer during a 
nine-run  first inning Tuesday and the Oakland Athletics cruised to a 16-6 win 
over the Chicago White Sox in spring training. 

The A's sent 15 batters to the plate in the first inning. Nine faced White So
starter  Jose Quintana, who failed to get an out and was charged with all nine 
runs on seven hits and two walks. 

Michael  Taylor, Daric  Barton, Jake Elmore, Sam Fuld and Coco Crisp delivered 
five  consecutive  RBI hits in the  rally. Taylor finished the game with three 
runs batted in. 

Conor  Gillaspie  and Tyler Flowers hit  solo homers off Oakland starter Jesse 
Chavez, who went 4 2/3 innings. Chavez allowed six hits and two walks with two 
strikeouts. 

Rangers Beat Cubs

Surprise,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  - Michael  Choice's two-out  single in  the 
bottom of the 10th lifted the Texas Rangers to a 7-6 win over the Chicago Cub
on Tuesday. 

Jim  Adduci's  two-run homer in the  bottom of the eighth forced extra innings 
for  Texas, while  J.P. Arencibia, Alex Rios and Kevin Kouzmanoff each knocked 
in  runs for the Rangers. Texas starter Alexi Ogando allowed five runs -- none 
earned -- in three innings pitched with four strikeouts. 

Mike  Olt and Javier  Baez each hit homers for the Cubs, who saw starter Jason 
Hammel allow four earned runs over five innings of work. 

Giroux's marker in OT lifts Flyers past Blackhawks

Philadelphia,  PA (SportsNetwork.com)  - Claude Giroux scored the winning goal 
with  just 4.2 seconds  left in overtime to give the Philadelphia Flyers a 3-2 
win over the Chicago Blackhawks. 

With  time winding down  in the extra session, Giroux flew down the right wing 
into  the  zone and from  the circle  he snapped a  laser on net, using Duncan 
Keith as a screen, and it went in and out of the left corner for the win. 

"I  knew when I went on the ice 15 seconds, maybe 20 seconds," said Giroux. "I 
knew  there wasn't  a lot of time, so I  was just trying to shoot as hard as I 
can to the net and didn't really aim, to be honest. I just shot it on net." 

Scott  Hartnell  scored the other two  goals while Ray Emery allowed two early 
goals in the first period, but finished the game with 23 saves for the Flyers, 
who  have ripped of three straight wins and six of eight. 

Andrew  Shaw and Keith  had the goals for Chicago, which has lost three of its 
last four games. Antti Raanta gave up all three goals on 37 shots. 

"I  think  we  did a  lot  of  good  things  tonight. But,  definitely  really 
frustrating the way we gave that point up," said Keith. 

It  was  a quick start for  Chicago as Shaw scored  just 2:29 in off a blocked 
shot  from Michal  Handzus, and it was  a 2-0 game at 3:51 when Jonathan Toews 
sent  the disc  from the  right corner  to the  slot where  Keith's big  blast 
trickled past Emery. 

Philly,  though,  got one  back two minutes  later thanks to  a lucky break as 
Hartnell  was behind the  net and tried to send the puck to the left wing, but 
it hit off Marcus Kruger and snuck past Raanta. 

The  Flyers tied  the game  at 16:27  of the  first when  Giroux centered  the 
puck  from  the left of the  net and Hartnell one-timed  it in for his 18th of 
the year. 

"I  think it was a fun game to play. I'm sure it was a fun game to watch also, 
but  I think  we were  just enjoying  ourselves out  there, just  playing some 
hockey," said Giroux. "It was rough, we got a hit, we were hitting, and that's 
the best part of hockey." 

A  spirited  second period saw  each team get  a power play  and a total of 17 
shots  thrown on  net, 11 by Chicago, but  neither side was able to put one in 
and the game headed to the third period still tied. 

The Flyers appeared to take the lead with 6:12 to play when Brayden Schenn put 
in  the  puck from  down low  after it hit  the post  off a Vincent Lecavalier 
deflection,  but the goal was waived off as Lecavalier had hit the puck with a 
high stick. 

Late  in regulation Steve Downie backhanded the puck from the left side past a 
sprawling  Raanta. Schenn  had a chance to  knock it in, but his shot went off 
the post and the game went to overtime. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  Flyers host  the Stars  on Thursday  ... The  Flyers were  0-1-3 at  home 
against  the Blackhawks  in overtime during the regular season coming into the 
game  ... Chicago plays St. Louis on Wednesday at home ... Giroux has 24 goals 
and  71  points on  the season  ... Neither team  scored on  the power play as 
Philly  had five chances  and Chicago three ... The Blackhawks had taken a 7-2 
win over the Flyers in Chicago on Dec. 11. 

Bears Sign Idonije; Cut Earl Bennett

Lake  Forest, IL  (SportsNetwork.com) - The Chicago Bears agreed to terms on a 
one-year contract with defensive lineman Israel Idonije. 

Idonije  played  nine years with the Bears before moving to the Detroit Lions 
last  season.  In a reserve  role, he recorded 11  tackles and a half-sack for 
Detroit in 2013. 

Idonije  appeared in  134 games with 50  starts for the Bears from 2004-12. He 
recorded 196 tackles and 28 1/2 sacks during that time. 

The  Chicago Bears  terminated  the contract of veteran wide receiver Earl Bennett on Tuesday. 

Bennett,  who's spent  his entire six-year career with Chicago, appeared in 15 
games  with three starts last season and hauled in 32 passes for 243 yards and 
four touchdowns. 

A college teammate of Bears quarterback Jay Cutler at Vanderbilt, the 26-year- 
old  Bennett  has racked up  185 receptions for  2,277 yards and 12 touchdowns 
over 78 games with 29 starts, including a career-high 15 in 2009. 

The Bears  also agreed to terms  on one-year deals with safeties Danny McCray 
and Craig Steltz on Tuesday. 

McCray comes to Chicago after spending his first four seasons in Dallas, where 
he  racked up 104 tackles, seven passes defensed and two interceptions over 60 
games and made 10 starts for the Cowboys during the 2012 campaign. 

Steltz,  who's spent his entire six-year career in Chicago, played in 16 games 
with one start last season. He recorded 14 tackles and one pass defensed while 
adding 14 special teams tackles. 

Illinois Opens NIT Tonight Against Boston University

(Boston, MA)  --  Illinois takes on Boston University tonight in the first round of the NIT.  Tip-off is at 6 p.m.  The second-seeded Fighting Illini went 19-and-14 this season, while the Terriers were 24-and-10 out of the Patriot League.  The winner plays either Clemson or Georgia State in the second round. The game will be played in Boston as the State Farm Center undergoes renovations. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-19-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

ARRESTS:

Frank K. Sedlock, 28, of 307 1/2 West First Street, Taylorville, was arrested March 19 for driving on a revoked license.

James T. Eiskant, 55, of 1537 East Matheny, Springfield, was arrested March 19 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear.

CRASHES:

On March 18, Jake H. Walters of Moweaqua was traveling west on County 4 when a deer entered the roadway from the North. Walters then collided with the deer. No injuries reported.

On March 17, Dale A. Adomitis of Bulpitt was traveling east on Route 104. Adomitis collided with a deer near 800 East Road. No injuries reported.

On March 13, Alicia A. Pattarozzi of Bulpitt was traveling north on County Highway 1. At about 350 North, a deer entered the roadway from the west and crossed the roadway. Pattarozzi hit the deer as it crossed the north bound lane. No injuries reported.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

On March 18 at 2:23pm, Taylorville Police Department officers initiated a traffic stop. Officers made contact with Erin Passini, 30, of Taylorville, whose driver's license was suspended. Passini was arrested, transported to Taylorville Police Department, processed, and released with a notice to appear.

On March 19 at 4:47am, a Taylorville Police Department officer initiated a traffic stop. Following the stop, Timari A. Tucker, 29, of Mt. Auburn was arrested for driving with a revoked license. Tucker was transported to Taylorville Police Department for processing and released on a notice to appear.

Christian County Board Approves Use of Courthouse/Grounds for 175th Celebration and Chillifest

The Christian County Board approved the use of the Courthouse and its grounds for the 175th Anniversary Celebration and Chillifest in October. Member Greg Hager told the Board about some of the requests for the use of the Courthouse and other events for that weekend:

[audio:hager175andchillifest032014.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Board also approved a $3,500 donation to the 175th Celebration Committee.

 

The Christian County Board was presented with an ordinance in regards to the employment of relatives. Member Laura Wilkinson tells the Board about the ordinance:

[audio:wilkinsonrelativesemploy032014.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Board voted to adopt the ordinance.

 

The Christian County Board heard a request to replace the Livescan fingerprinting system at the Sheriff’s Office. Member Fred Curtin explains why this needed to be done:

[audio:curtinfingerprint032014.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Board approved the request unanimously.

 

The Christian County Board approved to go into joint agreements with the Illinois Department of Transportation for federal participation in the bridge replacement projects for County Highway #1 and Prairieton Bridge #21. The Board also approved the reappointment of Jim Hahn to the Board of Directors for the Illinois Economic Development Association for a 6 year term.

The meeting adjourned at 7:01pm.  

Holsinger: Don?t Mow too Early

As springtime approaches, many people are anxious to get out and get some yardwork done, but University of Illinois Extension Horticulturist Andrew Holsinger says you may want to hold off on mowing your lawn:

[audio:holsingeronethirdrule031414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Holsinger says if you are looking for something to do to prepare for spring, it might be a good idea to sharpen your mower blades.

Tobacco Quitline a Free Service

There is help available for those who want to kick the smoking habit.  Lori Younker, Program Director for the American Lung Association, says the Tobacco Quitline is a free service which has seen a dramatic increase:

[audio:younkerquitline031714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Smoking, which causes 44,000 American deaths every year, is the leading cause of preventable death. In ChristianCounty, over 26% of adults are smokers.

Blues break 100-point mark in win over Jets

St.  Louis, MO  (SportsNetwork.com) - David Backes scored twice, including the 
game-winner with 6:51 left in the third period, as the St. Louis Blues secured 
a 3-1 win over the Winnipeg Jets on Monday at Scottrade Center. 

Backes  broke  a 1-1 tie with  a power-play goal  at 13:09 of the third before 
being  credited  with an  empty-netter at  18:49 to help  St. Louis become the 
first team to cross the 100-point plateau in the NHL this season. 

Brenden  Morrow scored  St. Louis' other goal, while Ryan Miller made 16 saves 
to improve to 7-0-1 since being acquired on Feb. 28 by the Blues, who have won 
three straight and eight of their last nine games. 

St.  Louis has  also earned points in 22 consecutive divisions games (20-0-2), 
extending a franchise record. 

Eric O'Dell potted Winnipeg's lone goal, while Al Montoya allowed two goals on 
25 shots for the Jets, who have lost seven of their last eight games. 

With the game tied 1-1 just past the midpoint of the third, Winnipeg's Evander 
Kane was sent off for slashing to put the Blues on the power play. 

"We  just can't be in the box there," Winnipeg head coach Paul Maurice said of 
Kane's  penalty, which occurred in the offensive zone. "That's the bottom line 
on that play." 

Late  in the  ensuing man-advantage, Ian Cole rifled a one-timer from atop the 
right  circle that was blocked by a defender, but the puck ricocheted into the 
slot and Backes pounded it into the back of the net for a 2-1 lead at 13:09. 

After  Montoya  left the net in  favor of the  extra attacker with just over a 
minute  left, Backes got behind the defense and had only an empty net in front 
of him when he was taken down from behind by Winnipeg's Jacob Trouba. 

The  referees  awarded Backes  with an  empty-netter to  account for the final 
margin. 

Just  after the final horn sounded, a brawl broke out between all five skaters 
on  both  teams and the  players had  to be separated  by the referees as they 
skated toward their respective locker rooms. 

"It was just a good battle," St. Louis' Steve Ott said of the scrum at the end 
of the game. "That's going to happen from time to time in this league but it's 
good that everyone to a man did their job." 

Following  a  scoreless first period,  Morrow got the Blues on the board 1:44 
into  the second  when he ripped a  one-timer past Montoya from the slot off a 
Derek Roy feed. 

However,  O'Dell  answered 1:55 into the  third with the teams skating 4-on-4. 
Kane  carried the  disc down the left  side and into the St. Louis zone before 
dishing to the slot for O'Dell, who deked past Miller before stuffing the puck 
in with a backhand to tie the game. 

                                   Game Notes 

St.  Louis reached 100-plus points for the sixth time in franchise history and 
the  second time in the past three seasons ... St. Louis has won four straight 
against  the  Jets ... Jay Bouwmeester  recorded two assists for the Blues ... 
Winnipeg went 0-for-1 on the power play. 

Ramirez Powers ChiSox Past Brewers

Maryvale,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  - Alexei  Ramirez went  4-for-4 with  a run 
scored  and  two RBI, and the  Chicago White Sox downed the Milwaukee Brewers, 
9-0, in spring training on Monday. 

Matt  Davidson and Hector  Gimenez also drove in a pair of runs, Josh Richmond 
added a pinch-hit, two-run homer in the seventh and Felipe Paulino tossed five 
scoreless  innings  while holding Milwaukee to  a pair of hits and three walks 
while fanning four. 

His counterpart, Kyle Lohse, was tagged for five runs on seven hits over 3 2/3 
innings, and the Brewers managed just four hits in the loss. 

Cubs Halve Split-Squad Games

Mesa,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Edwin  Jackson pitched four scoreless innings 
and  struck  out six as the  Chicago Cubs took a  4-2 win over the Los Angeles 
Angels of Anaheim on Monday. 

Emilio  Bonifacio, Ryan Roberts, Anthony Rizzo and Darnell McDonald each drove 
in a run for the Cubs. 

Andrew  Romine and Luis Martinez each scored a run for the Angels. Joe Blanton 
allowed three runs on four hits over 5 1/3 innings.

 

Phoenix,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Nick Punto went 2-for-3 with two RBI as the 
Oakland Athletics took a 6-2 win over the Chicago Cubs on Monday. 

Brandon  Moss had two hits, scored twice and drove in a run for the Athletics. 
Oakland  starter Joe  Savery gave up two  hits and a walk with five strikeouts 
over two innings. 

Jonathan  Mota  hit a two-run home  run to account for Chicago's runs. Yao-Lin 
Wang  gave up  two runs  on two  hits with  a walk  and a  strikeout in  1 1/3 
innings. James McDonald left his start against the A's after two pitches with shoulder issues.

Miller Drubbed As Cards Lose To Red Sox


Fort  Myers, FL  (SportsNetwork.com) - Mike Napoli's three-run shot was one of 
three  Boston longballs  in a 10-5 Grapefruit League victory over St. Louis on 
Monday. 

Dustin  Pedroia hit  a two-run homer and  Ryan Lavarnway added a solo shot for 
the  Red Sox.  Pedroia and  Napoli  both knocked  in  three runs  to fuel  the 
offense. 

John  Lackey picked  up the win despite  giving up six hits and five runs over 
five innings. He fanned three and walked two. 

Daniel  Descalso drove in  two runs, while Kolten Wong added three hits and an 
RBI for the Cardinals. 

Tyler  Lyons  was touched for  five runs on  as many hits  in his 1 1/3 relief 
frames.  Starter Shelby Miller worked the first 3 2/3 frames and yielded three 
runs and three hits with three walks.

Thunder pull away from Bulls

Chicago,  IL  (SportsNetwork.com) - Kevin  Durant put on another efficient 35- 
point  scoring display  and added  12 rebounds  and five  assists to  lead the 
Oklahoma City Thunder past the Chicago Bulls, 97-85, on Monday. 

Russell Westbrook, who sat out Sunday's 23-point loss to the Mavericks, netted 
17  points and was one rebound and one assist away from a triple-double, while 
Serge Ibaka checked in with 15 points for the victors. 

"Our  transition game is predicated on getting stops. We did a good job making 
them  miss a lot  of shots," said Thunder head coach Scott Brooks, whose group 
held Chicago to 34.5 percent shooting. 

Carlos  Boozer  totaled 12  points and  11 assists  for the Bulls, who got 16 
points from Taj Gibson and finished their six-game homestand with a 3-3 mark. 

The Bulls,  wearing green jerseys in  honor of St. Patrick's Day, entered the 
fourth  quarter in a 74-67 hole but scored eight straight points following two 
Reggie Jackson free throws to pull within 76-75. 

Unfortunately for the Bulls, their luck stopped there. 

They  had two chances  to take the lead, but Derek Fisher blocked Gibson under 
the basket and Jimmy Butler was off the mark on a 3-point try -- the first and 
second of 11 consecutive misses by Chicago. 

Oklahoma City's subsequent 16-1 run, capped by Ibaka's dagger corner 3-pointer 
with  just  over three  minutes to  play, gave the  Thunder a healthy 16-point 
cushion they did not relinquish. 

Durant  scored  10 points in  the first  quarter, including a step-back jumper 
just before the buzzer to break a 21-21 tie. 

"Durant  is tough to guard," Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau said. "You have to 
guard him with your team." 

A back-and-forth second ended with the Thunder still holding a two-point lead, 
47-45,  and  Durant keyed an  8-0 run midway  through the third that stretched 
Oklahoma City's lead to 69-58. 

                                   Game Notes 

Durant  extended his  consecutive games  streak with  25-or-more points  to 32 
games,  the  longest in the  NBA since  Michael Jordan strung together 25-plus 
points in 40 straight games during the 1986-87 season ... The Thunder improved 
to  6-4 on the second night of a back-to-back ... The Thunder swept the season 
series  and  have won five  straight meetings  ... Oklahoma City shot 13-of-25 
from behind the arc. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-18-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Christopher A. Schulz, 27, of 204 South Adams Street, was arrested March 17 on a bond forfeiture for operating an uninsured vehicle.

Kevin R. Hendricker, 29, of 222 Elm Street, Kincaid, was arrested March 18 for driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs.

Taylorville Kiwanis Hear About Conference Re-Alignment

 width=The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from Taylorville High School athletic director Paul Held, at their weekly meeting Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

Held reviewed the move next school year, of Taylorville High School from the Central State 8, to the Apollo athletic conference. Held said the Apollo is a 6-team league including schools in Mount Zion, Effingham, Charleston, Mattoon, and Salem. Held added that non-conference football opponents next school year will include Mount Vernon, Peoria Limestone, Rantoul, and Chillicothe.

Held said the conference re-alignment was mostly due to the ability for schools to compete in football, as well as travel.

[audio:HeldaudioMar1814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Kiwanis member Gina Prinzavalli announced that the club will again help provide manpower for the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Manners Park on Easter Sunday.

Jennifer Richardson was a guest at Tuesday’s Kiwanis Club meeting.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

It's Election Day! Listen and Watch for Election Coverage Tonight

It's Election Day, and the polls closed at 7pm tonight.

Listen for complete election coverage of contested state and local races on the Regional Radio Stations as follows:

--inside NCAA Mens Basketball Tournament coverage on WTIM Newstalk 97.3

--at :20 past the hour inside local news updates on WMKR Genuine Country 94.3 and groovy 93.5

--at :40 past the hour on WRAN Solid Gold 98.3

--at :50 past the hour on NEW Country 96.3

 

Be watching for election updates all night long as well, on taylorvilledailynews.com.

March Primary Election Results (Updated)

Primary Results

Christian County Clerk

Laurie J. Mense (Dem) 67 %

Greg Hager (Dem) 33%

 

Christian County Treasurer

Rep. Primary

Betty Ausmussen 559

Matt Wells 150

 

Dem. Primary

Dick Adams  525

John Ippolito 31

 

Shelby County Clerk

Jessica Fox (Dem) 66%

Delbert A. Lenz (Dem) 34%

 

Shelby County Sheriff

Don Koonce (Dem)   52%

Michael A. Miller (Dem) 48%

 

13th Congressional Republican Primary

Rodney Davis 55%

Erika Harold 41%

Michael Firsching 4%

 

13th Congressional Democratic Primary

Ann Callis 55%

George Gollin 31%

David Green 14%

 

96th District - State Representative Republican Primary

Michael Bell of Edinburg  76%

Landon Laubhan  24%

 

Referendums

1. Morrisonville-Panhandle School Consolidation

            Christian County- Morrisonville: No   

            Montgomery County- Pandhandle: Yes

2. Shelby County 1% Sales Tax Increase to Benefit Schools- yes

 

3. Towns have the authority to arrange for the supply of electricity for its residential and small commercial retail customers who have not opted out of such program

Yes

Edinburg, Morrisonville, Stewardson, Windsor, Strasburg, Raymond, Farmersville, Coalton, Waggoner, Sigel

 

NO

Butler, Litchfield, Nokomis, Witt, Irving, Taylor Springs

 

4. The sale at retail of alcoholic liquor should be prohibited in the Village of Moweaqua.

Christian County- No

Shelby County- No

 

5. The sale at retail of alcoholic liquor for consumption on the premises should be allowed within the Village of Tower Hill- Yes

 

6. Proposition to increase the limiting rate in Oconee- Yes

 

7. Maximum allowable tax rate for Shoal Creek Fire Protection District should increase from .30% to .40% of the value of all taxable property within the District. -- No

Pana Photographer?s Picture Becomes a Hit

 width=

A Pana photographer recently had a picture of a baby making a funny face become a hit on the internet. Holly Stark, who runs her own photography business, originally posted the picture on her Facebook page. After several hundred "likes" on her business Facebook page the photo was eventually shared to Reddit, a website where users vote on content, where it became even more of a hit. Stark tells Regional Radio News that she never saw this coming:

Key Q                                     …anything like this                                         (:09)

Stark explains how she got into photography:

Key W                                     …from there basically                                     (:12)

Stark says she has been contacted by some big names since the picture became popular:

Key E                                      …it’s just overwhelming                                 (:28)

Stark says she does a little bit of everything but mostly does senior, wedding, and kids pictures. For more information, contact Holly Stark Photography at (217) 565-1567.

Small Town Drama May Impact Schools

The drama continues in the town of Kincaid.  The mayor has been arrested twice for harassing his ex-boyfriend and the chief of police was also taken into custody on separate charges.  Now parents in the small town think the drama will put a wrench in plans to merge school districts. 

[audio:rddMLawrence11.mp3]comment here[/audio] 

Mike Lawrence is a Kincaid resident who says they’re trying to consolidate schools in the Edinburg and South Fork School Districts because of low enrollment.  But now he’s afraid parents in Edinburg will back out, thinking there’s too much corruption in Kincaid’s South Fork district.  He says that’s sad because they’ve been discussing the merger for three years.  Lawrence has filed a petition calling for the mayor to step down but the mayor says that’s not going to happen. 

White Sox Fall To Rangers

Surprise,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - J.P. Arencibia  hit a grand slam and Brad 
Snyder  clubbed a  three-run shot to lead  the Texas Rangers to a 14-8 rout of 
the Chicago White Sox. 

Alex  Rios and  Ronald Guzman also hit  solo shots for the Rangers. Starter Yu 
Darvish allowed two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out three 
over 4 2/3 innings. 

Paul  Konerko went 2-for-4 with three RBI and Adrian Nieto added a pair of RBI 
for  the  White Sox. John Danks  was touched for  three runs on seven hits and 
three walks over five frame. 

Cubs Split Two Games

Las Vegas, NV (SportsNetwork.com) - Arismendy Alcantara went 3-for-3 with a 
solo home run to lead the Chicago Cubs to a 6-3 win over the New York Mets in 
Cactus League action. 

Donnie Murphy and Dan Vogelbach each added a solo home run and Ryan Sweeney 
picked up an RBI single. Chris Rusin gave up one hit and struck out two 
through four innings for the Cubs. 

Zach Lutz went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and Andrew Brown added a two-run 
homer for the Mets. Jenrry Mejia threw 2 1/3 innings while giving up three 
runs on four hits. 

 

Mesa,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Carlos Santana  went 2-for-4 with a solo home 
run  and two  runs scored to lead the  Cleveland Indians to a 3-2 win over the 
Chicago Cubs. 

Jeff  Francoeur added a pair of RBI and starter Justin Masterson scattered two 
hits and struck out eight over five innings for the Indians. 

Luis  Valbuena  had a  pair of  doubles and an  RBI for  the Cubs. Travis Wood 
was touched for two runs on four hits while fanning eight out five frames. 

Cardinals Lose To Mets

Jupiter,  FL (SportsNetwork.com)  - Cory  Vaughn went  3-for-4 with  a two-run 
homer  and four RBI to lead the New York Mets to a 10-4 win over the St. Louis 
Cardinals in Grapefruit League action. 

Mark  Reynolds added two  hits and two RBI and Matt Clark went 3-for-5 with an 
RBI  for the Mets.  Jon Niese started for the Mets and surrendered two runs on 
three hits over two innings. 

Jhonny  Peralta was 2-for-4  with an RBI while Greg Garcia, Jon Jay and Kolten 
Wong  finished with  one RBI  apiece for  the Cardinals.  Adam Wainwright  was 
touched up for three runs on seven hits over 4 1/3 innings. 

Hossa leads Blackhawks over Red Wings in return

Chicago,  IL (SportsNetwork.com)  - Marian Hossa scored a goal and assisted on 
two  others in his return to Chicago's lineup, helping the Blackhawks beat the 
Detroit Red Wings, 4-1, at United Center. 

Hossa  missed five  consecutive games  with an  upper-body injury  he suffered 
against  Pittsburgh at  Soldier Field on March 1. The Blackhawks went 2-3-0 in 
his absence and snapped a two-game losing streak on Sunday. 

"(Hossa)  changes  the look  and complexion  of our  team game.  He made a big 
difference tonight," said Chicago head coach Joel Quenneville. 

Ben  Smith  had a  goal and one  assist for Chicago,  which continues to trail 
second-place Colorado by one point in the Central Division. 

Duncan  Keith collected  two assists, giving him 300 for his career, and Corey 
Crawford earned the win with 19 saves. 

Jimmy Howard stopped 26 shots for the reeling Red Wings, who have lost five of 
their  last seven  games but  are still  positioned just  outside the  Eastern 
Conference's playoff picture. 

Nick Leddy's blast from the left point on a power play staked Chicago to a 1-0 
lead at 8:44 of the second period. 

Gustav  Nyquist  tied it on  a Detroit power play,  beating Crawford on a shot 
that deflected in off the skate of Chicago defenseman Brent Seabrook with 4:50 
remaining in the middle stanza. 

The Blackhawks took  a  2-1 lead  into the  second  intermission after  Smith 
chipped in a rebound while falling down with 14 seconds left. 

Hossa made it 3-1 during 4-on-4 play at 6:33 of the third period, accelerating 
down  the  right wing  and firing  a wrister  behind Howard,  and later set up 
Jonathan Toews for a short-handed tally. 

A  takeaway  by Hossa  triggered a  2-on-1 rush  and he  dished to the Chicago 
captain, who scored on a backhander with 2:10 remaining. 

"I thought we were in a good situation after two," Red Wings head coach Mike 
Babcock said. "We were set up and we let it slip away." 

                                   Game Notes 

Quenneville  picked up  his 699th  win  as an  NHL head  coach ... Blackhawk
forward Brandon Saad left the game with an upper-body injury. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-17-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING INCIDENTS:

On March 10, Chadwick Spencer telephoned the Christian County Sheriff's Office in reference to criminal damage to property. Spencer stated sometime overnight, unknown subject(s) spray painted his and his boyfriend's vehicles. Both vehicles were parked in the driveway of 110 Beach Street in Kincaid. Both vehicles were spray painted on the driver's side with black paint.

ARRESTS:

Tammi G. Brown, 40, of 715 East Poplar Street, was arrested March 14 for delivering a fake substance. 

Richard Daniels, 39, of 2116 Manley Street, Granite City, was arrested March 14 on a warrant from another county.

Joseph T. Klein, 33, of 415 Kitchell, Pana, was arrested March 14 on a bond forfeiture for felony possession and use of a weapon and a bond forfeiture for driving on a suspended/revoked license.

Misty M. Carlile, 32, of 500 Northwest Avenue, Taylorville, was arrested March 14 on a bond forfeiture for a canceled/suspended/revoked registry.

Donald G. Kloever, 37, of 406 West Olive Street, Pana, was arrested March 15 on a warrant for domestic battery.

Pamela L. Muffick, 42, of 508 South Webster Street, Taylorville, was arrested March 15 for possession of a methamphetamine manufacturing materials and aggravated methamphetamine manufacturing.

Richard M. Ruff, 41, of Taylorville, was arrested March 15 for possession of a methamphetamine manufacturing materials and aggravated methamphetamine manufacturing.

Julie A. Hampton, 56, of 508 South Webster, Taylorville, was arrested March 15 for possession of a methamphetamine manufacturing materials and methamphetamine manufacturing.

Jeremy R. Masters, 23, of 204 North Vollentine, Taylorville, was arrested March 15 for violation of an order of protection.

Jacob A. Campbell, 21, of 24 Hillcrest Trailer Court, Taylorville, was arrested March 15 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear.

Blake A. Hoffman, 23, of 1105 Springfield Road, Kincaid, was arrested March 16 for aggravated battery.

Zachary V. Hay, 25, of 310 Southeast 3rd Street, Morrisonville, was arrested March 16 for aggravated battery/great bodily harm.

Antonio Haynes, 32, of 1125 North 7th Street, Springfield, was arrested March 16 for driving on a revoked license.

CRASHES:
On March 14, Andrew R. Livingston of Nokomis was traveling westbound on County Highway 12. At approximately 1400 East, a deer came from the north side of the road onto the roadway. Livingston struck the deer with the front of the vehicle. Livingston had damage to the front grill and front bumper of the vehicle. No injuries were reported.

On March 13, Kathy D. Guyot of Nokomis was traveling west on County Highway 10 at about 550 East. A deer entered the roadway and crossed in front of Guyot. Guyot struck the deer. No injuries were reported.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

ARRESTS:
On March 15, a Taylorville Police Department officer stopped a vehicle that was driven by Jeremy Masters, 23, of Taylorville. Masters was arrested for violation of an order of protection. The officer ran a check on a male passenger identified as Jacob A. Campbell, 21, of Taylorville. Campbell came back with a valid Morgan County warrant for failure to appear. Campbell was processed and lodged at Christian County Correctional Center.

On March 15 at 8:12pm, Taylorville Police Department officers were dispatched to 604 Northwestern in reference to a fight in progress. Following investigation, a male juvenile was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was released to his mother.

On March 13 at 3:08pm, a Taylorville Police Department officer made contact with Gayle L. Miller, 36, of Pana who the officer had just observed driving. Miller was wanted on a warrant and also driving while license suspended. Upon further investigation, Miller was also charged with possession of cannabis, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Miller was placed under arrest and transported to Taylorville Police Department for processing. Miller was later lodged at Christian County Sheriff's Office.

On March 15 at 11:26pm, a Taylorville Police Department officer initiated a traffic stop at Cherokee and Vine. Timothy B. Ostermeier, 54, of Edinburg was arrested for driving suspended. Ostermeier was transported to Taylorville Police Department for processing and released on a notice to appear.

On March 15 at 8:18am, Taylorville Police Department officers were dispatched to 2100 Grand Boulevard Apt. E5 in reference to two females that had kicked the door in. Both females had left the area prior to officers' arrival. Both females were located a few minutes later. Rachel Dixon, 28, of Taylorville was arrested for disorderly conduct and Madison Samson was arrested for illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor. Both were processed and released on a notice to appear.

On March 14 at 4:10pm, Taylorville Police Department officers were dispatched to Taylorville High School in reference to a student breaking a window. Following the investigation, a male juvenile was arrested for criminal damage to State supported property.

On March 14 at 5:56pm, a Taylorville Police Department officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the parking lot of Taco Bell. Following the stop, Shane L. Lamber-Miller, 23, of Taylorville was arrested for driving while license suspended.

On March 14 at 10:30pm, Robert Mcpeek, 37, of Taylorville came to post to report he had been in an altercation at the Cork and Keg. Following the investigation, Mcpeek was issued a local ordinance for fighting in public. Another party involved has not been located at this time.

CRASHES:
On March 13, Gavin M. Walker of Taylorville was traveling west on Route 48 approximately 1/4 mile from South Spresser. Walker struck a deer as the deer crossed the road. No injuries reported.

On March 10, Allison N. Edge of Taylorville was merging into the turn lane on Cheney Street. Edge did not see Christine K. Norris of Taylorville coming up behind her. Norris had been traveling behind Edge but had drove past Edge when she entered the turn lane. No injuries reported.

Ex-boyfriend of Kincaid Mayor has Vehicle Vandalized

The ex-boyfriend of Kincaid Mayor Doug Thomas had his vehicle vandalized last week. On March 10, Chadwick Spencer telephoned the Christian County Sheriff's Office in reference to criminal damage to property. Spencer stated sometime overnight, unknown subject or subjects spray painted his and also his boyfriend's vehicles on the driver's side with black paint. Both vehicles were parked in the driveway of 110 Beach Street in Kincaid. 

Fire Department Calls 3-17-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

March 14
3 EMS, 1 Fire

March 15
1 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm

March 16
4 EMS, 1 Public Assist

Three Arrested on Meth Manufacturing Charges

Three people in Taylorville were arrested for methamphetamine charges this past weekend. On Saturday, the Taylorville Police Department executed a state authorized search warrant on a residence located at 508 South Webster Street in Taylorville in connection with the unlawful manufacturing of methamphetamine. During the search of the residence an active methamphetamine lab was discovered.

42-year-old Pamela L. Muffick, 56-year-old Julie A. Hampton, and 41-year-old Richard M. Ruff all of Taylorville were taken into custody without incident for Aggravated Unlawful Participation in Methamphetamine Production and Unlawful Possession of Meth Manufacturing Materials.

The Illinois State Police Meth Response Team (MRT) assisted in dismantling of the lab and respective lab cleanup.

These arrests come from an ongoing investigation by the Taylorville Police Department into the unlawful manufacture of methamphetamine. The Taylorville Police Department is asking anyone with information relating to the unlawful manufacturing or distribution of methamphetamine or any other illegal substance to contact them at 217.824.2211 or Crime Stoppers at 824-9100.

 width=

Richard Ruff

 width=

Pamela Muffick

 width=

Julie Hampton

UPDATED: Kincaid Police Confirm Near Drowning Saturday; No Other Details Released Pending Further Investigation

Kincaid Police confirmed late Monday afternoon to Regional Radio, that there was a near drowning on Saturday in the Christian County village.

This (Monday) evening, Kincaid Police indicated they are working on getting everyone involved in the incident interviewed and cannot release any further information at this point. Kincaid Police added it may be a few days before the investigation is complete.

Kincaid Police would not confirm to Regional Radio, earlier reports we had on how the near-drowning occurred.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio and taylorvilledailynews.com for further information as it becomes available from Kincaid Police.

CRIME OF THE WEEK FOR MARCH 17, 2014

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a criminal damage that occurred in Kincaid.

Sometime during the overnight hours between February 28, 2014 and March 1, 2014, person or persons unknown made entry into a garage located at 309 Willow Street in Kincaid.   While inside, the unknown subject or subjects damaged a 2002 Chevy pick-up.   The front and back windows were broken out, all 4 tires slashed, the hood damaged, and scratches all over the vehicle.   The total dollar amount of damage 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. 

Taylorville City Council Hears that Noise at Ahlstrom is still a Problem

The Taylorville City Council met Monday night. Alderman Larry Budd informed the Council that the noise at Ahlstrom’s continues to be a problem:

[audio:buddmoreahlstrom031814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, the problem started when Ahlstrom installed EPA-mandated equipment.

 

The Taylorville City Council was presented with an ordinance to disconnect the two southern parts of the Evergreen Aviation Property located at 2301 South Spresser from the City. City Clerk Pam Peabody explains the error that was made when the property was annexed into the City:

[audio:pamannexerror031814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Council approved the ordinance on a 7-2 vote.

 

The Taylorville City Council heard an update in regards to several businesses violating liquor laws by selling alcohol to minors. City Attorney Rocci Romano tells the Council the latest on the situation:

[audio:romanoliquorfines031814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Alderman Earl Walters said that he believes the time of closure should be longer and the fine should be higher.

 

The Taylorville City Council approved an ordinance to amend the City Code to add Langley Road from Cheney to Broaddus to the Emergency Snow Routes. The Council approved the motions to forward the Police Budget, Water Department Budget, Airport Budget, and Lake Budget to the Finance Committee. The Council also approved motions to allow Police Chief Dave Herpstreith to send one officer to attend Dare Instructor Training and two officers to tactical firearms training classes.

Alderman Ernie Dorchinecz noted post-meeting that plans are underway for the new water plant and with the construction, there will be a water rate increase that will likely begin May 1st.        

The meeting adjourned at 7:44pm. 

First National Bank in Taylorville Contributes to YMCA

 width=

Shown above from left to right are Chris Weittenhiller, YMCA Executive Director and Blain Cornwell, First National Bank in Taylorville President. 

The First National Bank in Taylorville recently presented a check in the amount of $11,000 to the YMCA as part of their $55,000 commitment to the YMCA’s 2012 Debt Reduction Campaign. To date the YMCA has raised $636,456.

Land of Lincoln Honor Flight Prepares for First Trip of 2014

The Land of Lincoln Honor Flight (LLHF) will honor 88 Veterans by taking them on a no expense, day long trip to Washington, DC, so they may visit and reflect at their national memorials on Tuesday March 25th. Local veterans on the flight will be:

Hillsboro:   Joe "Doc" Page, Army, Vietnam Era

Shelbyville:  Leslie "Les" Black, Navy, WW2

Taylorville:  Roy "Dick" Ziegler II, Army, Vietnam Era

Morrisonville:  Gilbert "Gib" Meiners, Army, Korean Era

Nokomis:  Gene Johnson, Army, Korean Era

                   Jim Reese, Army, Korean Era

                   Donald Stauder, Army, Korean Era

This is the first flight of the 2014 season. The public is invited to welcome home the Veterans when they return to the Springfield Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport on March 25th, arriving at approximately 9:30 PM.

Josh Dill Looking to Run for 13th Congressional Seat Under Own Party

 width=

Josh Dill of Springfield is looking to make a run at the 13th Congressional Seat in Illinois but he’s doing it under his own party. Dill tells Regional Radio News about the Lincoln Liberty Party:

[audio:dillparty031514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dill tells what he would bring to the table if he was elected:

[audio:dillqualifications031514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dill will have to get 16,000 signatures by the end of June in order to make it onto the ballot in November. For more information, visit his website lincolnliberty.org

B and R Construction Offers New Services

A Taylorville business is offering some new services.  B and R Construction owner Ross Kirkendoll says they are now selling and servicing boats:

Governor Quinn Announces $20 Million for Construction Projects in Central Illinois

Governor Pat Quinn has announced capital investments of more than $20 million for construction projects in Christian, Logan, Montgomery and Sangamon Counties.

Five bridges along Interstate 55 in Logan, Montgomery and Sangamon Counties will be cleaned and painted. Interstate 55 frontage roads in Montgomery County will receive surface treatment.

The decks and parapets of various bridges in Christian, Logan and Montgomery Counties will be sealed. Mount Auburn Road in Christian County from 8.5 miles south of the Sangamon County line to three miles north of Taylorville will receive surface treatment.

The projects are part of Governor Quinn’s Illinois Jobs Now! Program.

Jessica Fox Running for Democratic Nomination for Shelby County Clerk

Jessica Fox, the current Shelby County Clerk and Recorder, is running for the Democratic nomination in Tuesday’s elections.  Fox, who was originally appointed Clerk in January of 2013, has been working in the office since 2001.  Fox says in her 14 months as Clerk, she has achieved a number of goals:

[audio:foxjessicascc031414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Delbert Lenz is also running for the nomination.

Shelby County School Referendum on Tuesday Ballot

Like many Illinois Counties, ShelbyCounty is trying to pass a sales tax increase referendum in Tuesday’s elections.  Shelby County Businessman and Chamber of commerce member Tad Mayhall says it’s up to us to improve school funding:

[audio:tadreferendum031414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Illinois State School Superintendent Christopher Koch says funding cuts proposed by the legislature would be “devastating”.

White Sox Fall To Angels

(Tempe, AZ)  --  Jose Quintana gave up seven runs on six hits in three innings of work as the White Sox fell 8-6 to the Angels.  Blake Tekotte hit a two-run homer while Jordan Danks and Matt Davidson each had two hits.  Micah Johnson drove in three runs in the loss.  The White Sox are back in action today as Dylan Axelrod will make the start.  

Lynn Fans 10 As Cards Crush Braves

Jupiter, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Xavier Scruggs highlighted a seven-run sixth 
inning with a three-run double as the St. Louis Cardinals shut out the Atlanta 
Braves, 11-0, in Grapefruit League action. 

The Cardinals  were already ahead  4-0 when they turned  the game into a rout 
with the sixth-inning outburst. 

Matt Carpenter had two hits and an RBI, while Matt Holliday, Yadier Molina and 
Jhonny Peralta each doubled in a run. 

St.  Louis starter  Lance Lynn recorded 10 strikeouts and allowed only one hit 
in four innings. 

Freddy  Garcia threw the  first four innings for Atlanta and gave up four runs 
-- three earned -- on six hits and a walk. 

The Braves had only three hits and committed three errors. 

Battered Dunleavy leads Bulls in rout of Rockets

Chicago,  IL  (SportsNetwork.com) - Mike  Dunleavy took Chandler Parsons' best 
shot, left the game in a bloody mess, but returned in the third quarter with a 
vengeance and buried the Rockets. 

Dunleavy  scored  18 of  his 21  points in  the third  quarter and boosted the 
Chicago Bulls to a 111-87 win over Houston Thursday night at United Center. 

With  7:54  left in  the second quarter,  Parsons drove into  the lane and his 
elbow collided with Dunleavy's face. Dunleavy, who held his ground to take the 
offensive foul, was forced off the court due to excessive bleeding. 

Dunleavy  received 10 stitches to close the wound and returned to the court to 
start  the  third quarter  and came  out on  fire. He  scored 10 points during 
Chicago's  20-2 run to open the period which expanded the lead to 70-44 midway 
through the quarter. 

For  the  period, Dunleavy went 7-of-11  from the field, including 3-of-4 from 
beyond  the arc,  and helped the Bulls  bounce back from a 104-96 home loss to 
the Spurs on Tuesday. 

"I  was  able to  get back here  quick enough.  They did a  pretty good job of 
stitching me up," Dunleavy said. "The doctor said I had thick skin." 

Joakim  Noah  narrowly missed a triple-double  with 13 points, 10 rebounds and 
nine assists for Chicago, which won for the 12th time in the last 16 contests. 
Kirk Hinrich scored 19, Carlos Boozer 18 and D.J. Augustin 13 for the Bulls. 

James  Harden was held to a season-low tying eight points for the Rockets, who 
have lost back-to-back contests following a five-game winning streak. It's the 
first  time Houston  has lost consecutive games since Jan. 24-25, both against 
Memphis. 

Jeremy  Lin led  the way with 21  points for the Rockets, who also received 12 
points,  10  rebounds and  four blocks  from Dwight  Howard. Houston shot 35.4 
percent, including a 5-of-26 showing from 3-point range. 

"We  did not come  out ready to play. I have no idea why," Rockets coach Kevin 
McHale  said. "If I knew I would stop it. We didn't do anything offensively or 
defensively to start the game." 

Boozer  scored 10 in the first quarter to carry the hosts to a 25-20 advantage 
after 12 minutes. The Rockets went 6-of-20 from the floor in the period. 

"We  feel the games  where we get off to good starts we're pretty successful," 
Hinrich said. 

Lin  had nine points in the second quarter, but the Bulls shot 58.8 percent in 
the stanza, helped by Augustin's 10 points on a 4-of-4 effort from the field. 

Two  free throws  from Howard closed Houston within 35-34 with 5:31 remaining, 
but  Chicago scored 10  of the next 12 points, buoyed by a pair of Augustin 3- 
pointers.  Hinrich's shot from beyond the arc in the closing seconds moved the 
hosts to a 50-42 edge at the break. 

The Bulls led by as many as 29 in the third and coasted in the fourth. 

                                   Game Notes 

Jimmy Butler scored 11 for the Bulls, who made half of their 86 shots and went 
14-of-24  from  beyond the arc ...  Houston had won the previous four meetings 
... Hinrich and Dunleavy combined to go 9-of-12 from 3-point range. 

Bears Sign Young; Hixon

(Chicago, IL)  --  The Bears agreed to terms with former Detroit Lions defensive end Willie Young on a three-year deal.  Young is guaranteed four of his nine-million-dollar contract.  Young was drafted out of NC State by the Lions and last season turned in a three sack, 47 tackle season while recovering two fumbles.  Domenik Hixon signed a one-year contract with the Bears to provide depth at the receiver position and compete for a special teams return position.  Hixon enters his ninth season in the NFL with Chicago being his fourth team.  Hixon caught only seven passes for 55 yards and a score last season in Carolina but had success with the Giants, catching 102 passes for more than 1,400 yards and six touchdowns in his five years there.  

Illinois Knocks Off Indiana; Faces Michigan Today

Indianapolis,  IN (SportsNetwork.com)  - Tracy Abrams scored 25 points to lead 
the Illinois Fighting Illini to  a 64-54  win over  the Indiana  Hoosiers in 
first-round action of the Big Ten Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. 

Rayvonte  Rice  added 13 points for  the ninth-seeded Illini (19-13), who will 
advance to take on top-seeded Michigan in the quarterfinal round on Friday. 

Yogi Ferrell scored 14 points and Will Sheehey added 13 points for the eighth- 
seeded  Hoosiers  (17-15), who stayed close  with the Illini, but couldn't get 
over the hump in the second half. 

Down 38-33 early in the second half, the Illini went on a 15-2 run to take the 
lead. Ekey's three-pointer with 8:42 left capped the surge and gave Illinois a 
47-40 cushion. 

Indiana remained within striking distance the rest of the way, but could never 
take  the  lead. Austin  Etherington hit  a layup  with 3:13  left to draw the 
Hoosiers  within 53-52,  but after the Illini  came up empty on the other end, 
Noah Vonleh attempted a jumper but was blocked by Nnanna Egwu at the 2:32 mark 
that would've given Indiana the lead. 

Tracy  Abrams  responded with a  three-pointer for  Illinois with 2:06 left to 
extend  the  lead back to two  possessions, 56-52. He  then hit a pair of free 
throws with 1:19 left to make it a six-point game, 58-52. 

Illinois  hit  four more free  throws down the  stretch before Indiana got its 
next bucket to ice the win. 

Kendrick  Nunn ended with 10 points for Illinois, which outscored Indiana 11-2 
to end the game. 

Illinois jumped out to a 9-0, but Indiana responded with a 14-2 run, capped by 
a  Ferrell three-pointer  with 10:38  left. Play  remained close  the rest  of 
the half, with Illinois carrying a 30-28 lead into the break. 

Troy Williams had 11 points for Indiana. 

Illinois faces top-seeded Michigan in today's quarterfinals. Coverage of the game can be heard on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM with pre-game at 10:30am.

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-14-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CRASHES:

On March 11, Kimberly D. Miller of Pana was traveling westbound on Illinois Route 16 and was approximately 1/8 of a mile west of Township Road 2700 East when a deer entered the roadway. Miller was unable to avoid striking the animal. Miller received front driver's side quarter panel damage. No injuries were reported.

On March 12, Joshua A. Palmer of Mattoon was southbound on Illinois Route 29 about 4 tenths of a mile north of 1900 East Road when the crash occurred. Palmer stated that the cigarette butt can he had in the truck fell down by his feet. It was rolling towards the pedals and he bent down to try to pick it up. The truck drifted across the southbound lane and ran off the roadway. Palmer over corrected and went into a slide as the truck came back onto the roadway. The truck overturned at the east edge of the north bound lane and continued off the roadway into the right ditch where it came to rest on the passenger's side. Palmer reported minor injuries but refused treatment. Aaron M. Shartzer of Pana, who was a passenger in Plamer's truck, was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries.

On March 13, Weston T. Smith of Pana was westbound on 100 East Road about 1/2 mile east of US Highway 51 when Smith glanced down and ran off the roadway into the loose gravel on the shoulder. The ditch is very steep and as the right tire went off into the ditch it pulled the truck down into the ditch. Smith hit the embankment and part of a concrete culvert. Smith complained his head hurt but did not want to go to the hospital. He was eventually transported to Pana Community Hospital by private.

On March 13, Shawn E. Carey of Mt. Auburn was east bound on County Road #2. Carey lost control of vehicle on the slick road and slid off the roadway striking a utility and coming to a rest in a farm field on the south side of the road.

On March 11, Jordan N. Stout of Taylorville was east bound on Bel Haven. Stout struck a mail box at 108 Bel Haven. Mailbox was damaged as well as the front of Stout's vehicle.

ARRESTS:
Gayle Miller, 36, of 206 State Street, Pana, was arrested March 13 for possession of methamphetamine.

Douglas A. Thomas, 48, of 114 Cherry Street, Kincaid, was arrested March 13 for violation of an order of protection.

Fire Department Calls 3-14-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 13
2 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident

Kincaid Mayor Appears in Court Following Second Arrest

Kincaid Mayor Doug Thomas appeared in court this morning following his second arrest for the violation of an order of protection. Probable cause was on March 1st Chadwick Spencer contacted the Christian County Sheriff’s Office to report that Thomas had left comments on his Instagram account. In the interview with Illinois State Police on March 13th, Thomas admitted to leaving the comments on the pictures. Judge Paisley ruled that the probable cause existed and the bond was set at $30,000. This charge will be added to the already scheduled preliminary hearing in regards to the first violation of the order of protection and drug possession charges. The date for that hearing is set for April 14th at 10:00am. If convicted on both charges, Thomas would have to serve a mandatory consecutive sentence meaning he has to serve the first before the second.

Hager Running for County Clerk

The primary elections are this Tuesday, and one of the candidates for the Democratic nomination for Christian County Clerk is Greg Hager.  Hager says his experience in county government and management makes him a good choice:

[audio:hagerccclerk031314.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hager says he’d like to update the office’s computer systems.  Long-time County Clerk Linda Curtin is stepping down.

Edinburg and Kincaid School Consolidation Talks Continue to Move Along

The Edinburg and Kincaid/South Fork Schools are continuing to talk about a possible consolidation. Kincaid Superintendent Ron Graham tells Regional Radio News about the benefits of the consolidation:

[audio:grahambenefits031314.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Graham says the recent controversy in Kincaid won’t play a major factor in the consolidation talks:

[audio:grahamcontroversy031314.mp3]comment here[/audio]

For more information on the consolidation, visit the Committee of Ten’s website at comm10.org or their Facebook page by searching for Edinburg-South Fork Consolidation Committee of Ten.

 

White Sox Fall Short Against Giants

Scottsdale,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  - Joaquin Arias drove in Nick Noonan with 
the  winning run in the bottom of the ninth, as San Francisco topped the Whit
Sox, 4-3, in Cactus League play. 

Noonan  tied the game  when he scored Hector Sanchez with a double, Mike Morse 
added  an early RBI  double, and Buster Posey finished 2-for-3 with an RBI for 
the Giants. 

Mason  Tobin snagged the win with a scoreless top of the ninth despite walking 
two  batters. Tim  Lincecum yielded four hits and two runs while fanning three 
over 4 1/3 innings. 

Alejandro  De  Aza scored  twice  and  drove in  a  run,  and Adam  Dunn  also 
contributed an RBI for Chicago. 

Nestor Molina was charged for both runs on three hits in the deciding frame. 

Cubs Fall To Mariners

Peoria,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Ty Kelly's  RBI single in the bottom of the 
10th  inning  gave the  Seattle Mariners an  8-7 win over  the Chicago Cubs in 
Cactus League play. 

John  Buck tied the game for Seattle with a two-run single to left in a three- 
run ninth inning. 

Randy  Wolf  gave up a  pair of  solo homers in  his four-inning start for the 
Mariners,  who received  a home run and  two RBI from Brad Miller and two hits 
and an RBI from Robinson Cano. 

Mike  Olt went  3-for-4 with two home  runs and three RBI, John Baker drove in 
three  runs  and Javier Baez  added a solo blast  for the Cubs, whose starter, 
James  McDonald, gave  up two  runs on  two  hits and  five walks  over 2  2/3 
innings. 

Wong, Martinez Pace Cardinals Past Mets

Port  St. Lucie,  FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Carlos Martinez spun four scoreless 
innings and Kolten Wong belted a two-run homer in the St. Louis Cardinals' 6-4 
Grapefruit League win over the New York Mets. 

Both  Wong  and Stephen  Piscotty finished  with two hits  for St. Louis, with 
Piscotty scoring a pair of runs and driving in one. 

Martinez held the Mets to just two hits and a walk while striking out three in 
a sharp effort for the highly regarded prospect. 

New  York  starter  John  Lannan  also worked  four  innings,  recording  five 
strikeouts but getting touched for a pair of unearned runs. 

Juan  Lagares  produced the Mets'  top offensive highlight, stroking a two-run 
single in the seventh inning. 

Varlamov reaches milestone as Avs turn back Blackhawks

Denver,  CO  (SportsNetwork.com) - Semyon  Varlamov stopped 37 shots to record 
his  100th career  victory, as  Colorado slipped  past Chicago  3-2, at  Pepsi 
Center. 

Matt  Duchene and  Ryan O'Reilly  picked up  a goal  and assist  each for  the 
Avalanche,  winners  in six of their  last seven to vault over their Wednesday 
opponents into second place in the Central Division. 

Brad  Malone added  a tally as Colorado  won four of five in the season series 
from the defending Stanley Cup champions. 

"As  a  team we expected them  to come hard the  later it got. There's still a 
long  way to  go,"  said Avalanche  captain Gabriel  Landeskog  of his  club's 
opponent.  "Tonight was a huge win, and we certainly sent a message. We're not 
going to give them anything." 

Patrick  Kane  and Brandon Saad scored  for the Blackhawks, who saw a two-game 
win streak halted. Antti Raanta made 26 saves in defeat. 

The  Avs went  up by a 3-1 count  during a 5-on-3 power play, as Duchene fired 
from  the outer edge  of the right circle and O'Reilly tucked home the rebound 
in front at 10:53. 

Raanta  was pulled for an extra skater with more than 2 1/2 minutes remaining, 
and  the move paid  off one shift later as Saad's rolling shot inside the left 
post to make it a one-goal contest. 

He went to the bench once more shortly after the ensuing faceoff, but Varlamov 
only  needed to make one quality save, on a long shot up the middle from Saad, 
in the closing seconds. 

"This  is another  frustrating  loss  for our  team.  Varlamov  is a  talented 
goaltender, and we haven't found a way to get pucks past him," said Blackhawk
captain  Jonathan Toews. "We have not matched their intensity and we have much 
more to show against this team." 

Malone earned his first of the season and sent the Avs to intermission up 1-0, 
when his low shot from the left wing near the boards eluded Raanta at 18:24. 

"It  was  a controlled  break.  I  got some  speed  along  the wall,  got  the 
chip  and then just  shot it. I'm glad it went in," noted Malone. "We have run 
that  play in  practice  and tonight  we  got  a good  bounce  on it.  There's 
something very special here and I'm proud to be a part of it." 

Colorado  led  by two at  the 19-second mark of  the middle frame on Duchene's 
22nd  of  the season, but  Chicago responded in the  person of Kane, who moved 
around  Avs  defenseman Jan Hejda  on the right wing  and beat Varlamov with a 
backhander to the near post at 8:23. 

                                   Game Notes 

Varlamov's  overall  record with  Colorado stands at  70-57-11, and his season 
mark  improved to 33-12-5 ... Paul Carey made his NHL debut for the Avalanche, 
a  two-time NCAA  title winner (2010, '12) at Boston College ... Malone's only 
other score occurred against Calgary on Apr. 8, 2013. 

Saffold Returning To Rams; Williams signs with Bills

Offensive tackle Rodger Saffold is reportedly heading back to St. Louis.  ESPN reports Saffold will sign a five-year contract with the Ramsfollowing a disagreement with his physical condition in Oakland.  The Raiders, who reportedly agreed to a five-year, 42.5-million-dollar contract with Saffold on Tuesday, are worried about his shoulder.  The Rams, however, have no concerns with his shoulder, according to the report.  The 25-year-old Saffold appeared in 12 games last season for the Rams, playing every position on the offensive line but center.  St. Louis selected the Indiana product in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft. 

The Buffalo Bills are bolstering their offensive line with the addition of free agent Chris Williams.  He has agreed to a reported four-year deal worth 13.5-million-dollars, with 5.5-million guaranteed.  The 28-year-old started all 16 games for the St. Louis Rams last season and was part of a unit that allowed the eighth-fewest sacks in the NFL.  Williams was originally drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2008. 

Bears Ink Jennings; McCown To Buccaneers

(Lake Forest, IL)  --  Former Green Bay Packers safety M.D. Jennings agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Chicago Bears.  Jennings, 25, recorded 74 tackles last season in all 16 games for Green Bay, but failed to produce a turnover.  The signing of Jennings gives the Bears some depth in the secondary.  Jennings was undrafted out of Arkansas State in 2011 and has 133 tackles and a pick six on his resume.  


(Tampa Bay, FL)  --  Former Bears quarterback Josh McCown has signed a two-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers worth ten-million dollars.  McCown is guaranteed four-and-a-half million dollars in the contract with an extra five-million available in incentives.  McCown played a big role for Chicago last season winning three games in the absence of Jay Cutler.  Bucs coach Lovie Smith said McCown will compete for the starting job.  

Illinois Plays Indiana In Big Ten Tourney Today

(Indianapolis, IN)  --  Illinois is in action today as the Big Ten Tournament begins in Indianapolis.  The ninth-seeded Illini go up against eighth-seeded Indiana at 11 a.m.  The winner moves on to play top-seeded Michigan in Friday's quarterfinals.  Illinois and Indiana split their two regular season meetings. Coverage of the game can be heard on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM with pre-game at 10:30am.

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-13-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Terry G. Edwards, 22, of 101 East Harrison Street, Edinburg, was arrested March 13 for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Ralph J. Scribner, 21, of 902 East Third Street, Pana, was arrested March 12 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear.

 

THE PANA POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING:

Following a traffic stop on March 11, Amber M. Williams, 22, of Vandalia was issued a citation for disobeying a traffic control device. Williams posted her driver's license as bond and was given a court date. Kaleb W. McCormick, 20, of Decatur and Paul F. Smith, 35, of Ramsey were given citations for failure to wear a seat belt by passengers. Both were given a notice to appear and a court date. Smith was taken into custody for a valid warrant out of Fayette County. Smith was transported by Fayette County Sheriff's Office.

Fire Department Calls 3-13-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 12
4 EMS, 2 Public Assist, 1 Automatic Alarm

March 13
2 EMS, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident

CRIME OF THE WEEK FOR MARCH 10, 2014

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a hit and run that occurred in Taylorville.

Sometime during early morning to afternoon of Tuesday March 4,2014, a vehicle was struck by an unknown vehicle while it was parked at the Taylorville High School.  The unknown vehicle then left the scene.  The victim's vehicle was parked on Knute Rockne Drive during the time of the incident.  The victim's vehicle, a 2012 white Nissan, suffered driver's side damage.  The total dollar amount of damage 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. 

Kincaid Mayor Arrested for Second Time

Kincaid Mayor Doug Thomas has been arrested for the second time in a month. Thomas was picked up by the Illinois State Police around 11:00 Thursday morning for violating an order of protection. Thomas is being housed in the Christian County Jail and is reportedly expected to go before a judge tomorrow (Friday).  ISP preliminary investigative details revealed that Thomas had violated the order by contacting a protected person on March 1 in Christian County.  Thomas was arrested February 20th by Christian County Sheriff’s deputies for violating an order of protection and drug possession after deputies found prescription drugs in an unlabeled bottle on him. There is reportedly a petition circulating around Kincaid calling for Mayor Thomas to resign.

Nearly 200 Attend Loving Arms Crisis Pregnancy Center Banquet

 width=

Nearly 200 people attended Thursday night’s Loving Arms Crisis Pregnancy Center Annual Banquet at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

Following dinner, Steffan Campos and Chris Hallam performed, then center executive director Cathy Coker gave her annual report.

Amber Rice, a former client of Loving Arms, then gave her testimony about how the center helped her and her family spiritually and materially after the birth of a child 4 years ago.

 width=

Guest speaker for the evening was Shawn Carney, executive director of the “40 Days for Life” campaign that has organized 40 days of prayer and fasting for an end to abortion, in cities around the world. The effort started in his hometown of College Station, Texas, in 2004, and has spread to all 50 states and 21 countries.

Carney encouraged those in attendence to remain involved in the local crisis pregnancy center efforts, because he says the solution to the abortion battle must be local.

[audio:CarneyaudioMar1314.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Center had some 529 visits, and 25 known live births as a result, last year. The annual Loving Arms Banquet is the non-profit organization’s biggest fund-raiser.

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-12-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Jacquelyn Booker, 23, of 110 Beech Street, Kincaid, was arrested March 11 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear/answer.

Casey L. Conaway, 20, of 40 Hannon Trailer Court, Taylorville, was arrested March 11 on a warrant for criminal damage to property.

CRASHES:

On March 9, Corrie J. Mathes of Assumption was westbound on County #6 approaching Township Road 2600 East. Amanda R. Cantrell of Pana was northbound on Township Road 2600 East. Mathes advised Cantrell slowed and she though that Cantrell was going to turn so she proceeded through the stop sign. Cantrell stated she slowed at the intersection but did not activate her turn signal and had no intent to turn. Cantrell also stated Mathes did not stop at the posted stop sign. Mathes struck the right front end of Cantrell. No injuries were reported. Mathes was issued a citation for failure to yield at a stop/yield intersection.

On March 4, Britt M. Burton of Kincaid was traveling east 1700 North Road at about 775 East. A deer entered the roadway and Burton struck the deer. Burton had damage to front and front passenger side. No injuries were reported.

On March 11, Juanita E. Goodrich of Moweaqua was southbound on US Highway 51. Goodrich stated she was not use to the new four lane highway. A Christian County Sheriff's deputy asked which lane she was in and she said she was not sure. The deputy told Goodrich from the marks at the scene that she was not in the left turn lane. Goodrich said she was not because she was not sure where she needed to turn. As Goodrich approached the intersection of 1300 North Road, she realized she needed to turn left and began to change lanes. The front left corner of Goodrich struck the passenger side of Aaron M. Stock of Decatur. Goodrich braked and came to a stop at an angle blocking most of the left lane of the intersection of 1300 North Road. Stock stated he was southbound on US Highway 51 and he saw Goodrich traveling south approaching 1300 North Road. Goodrich was in the right lane and had the right turn signal on. Stock moved to the left lane and began to overtake Goodrich. Goodrich suddenly changed lanes striking Stock causing him to spin out of control and slide into the median on the south side of the intersection.
No injuries were reported.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARREST:

On March 11 at 7:20pm, Taylorville Police Department officers were out at 40 Hannon Trailer Court in reference to Casey Conaway, 20, of Taylorville having a valid Christian County Warrant. Officers made contact with Conaway and the warrant was confirmed through the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System. Conaway was arrested and transported to Christian County Sheriff's Office.

Rosenthal: Governor Quinn Accused of Misappropriating Funds

A new scandal may plague Governor Pat Quinn in this election year.  Representative Wayne Rosenthal, a Republican from Morrisonville, says the problem traces back to money intended for use in fighting violence in Chicago:

[audio:rosenthalquinnmoney031114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The timing is part of what aroused suspicion, as the money was distributed just before the general elections.

Springfield Clinic to Add Allergy, Asthma, Immunology Services to Taylorville

The Springfield Clinic’s Taylorville location will be adding new services beginning in April. Doctor Renu Govindaiah tells Regional Radio News about the services she will be bringing to Taylorville:

[audio:govendaiahservices031214.mp3]comment here[/audio]

To make an appointment with Dr. Govindaiah at Springfield Clinic in Taylorville, call the Springfield office at 528-7541.   

Stars shake off blue Monday, beat St. Louis in OT

St.  Louis,  MO (SportsNetwork.com)  -  Following  Monday's medical  emergency 
involving Dallas forward Rich Peverley, the Stars were in desperate need of an 
emotional lift. 

Enter captain Jamie Benn. 

Benn  buried the game winner 3:42 into overtime, as the Dallas Stars secured a 
3-2 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday at Scottrade Center. 

Monday's  matchup between  Dallas and Columbus was less than seven minutes old 
before Peverley, who had a procedure performed during the preseason to correct 
an irregular heartbeat, collapsed shortly after completing a shift. 

Players from both teams frantically called for medical personnel to assist the 
nine-year  veteran,  who  was  treated  for a  "cardiac  event"  before  being 
transported to a local hospital. 

The  game was promptly postponed, with players from both teams, especially the 
Stars, visible shaken by the incident. 

Dallas  rebounded  from the  scary scene  to collect  their third straight win 
Tuesday, thanks to regulation markers from Colton Sceviour and Antoine Roussel 
along  with a 28-save effort from Tim Thomas, who made his first start for the 
Stars since being acquired from Florida last Wednesday. 

"I  told them that you  can look for a reason to lose or you can find a way to 
win,"  Dallas  head coach Lindy  Ruff said of  getting his guys mentally ready 
less  than 24 hours  after Monday's incident. "I said we need to find a way to 
win and we need to win it for a couple of our teammates." 

Alex  Pietrangelo and Roman  Polak each potted a goal for St. Louis, which set 
a  franchise  record with at least  one point in its 20th consecutive division 
game, improving to 18-0-2 this season against other teams from the Central. 

Ryan Miller made 27 saves in defeat, his first with his new club. 

"Our  execution  could be a little  better and mine as well," Miller admitted. 
"We were in the game tonight. It could have gone either way." 

With  Dallas on the attack late in the extra session, Trevor Daley carried the 
disc  along the right midboards and made his way behind the net before sending 
a  backhand  feed through  the slot to  the right circle,  where Benn ripped a 
wrister past Miller to send the Stars to victory. 

Pietrangelo  put the Blues on the board  13:01 into the tilt when he buried a 
rebound  from in  front following  Magnus Paajarvi's  wraparound try,  but the 
Stars  answered in  the final minute of the frame after Kevin Shattenkirk went 
off for holding at 18:33. 

Alex  Goligoski fired a  shot from the right point that Miller fought off, but 
Sceviour  swatted  the rebound through Miller's  legs from in front to make it 
1-1 with 52.6 seconds on the clock. 

Following  a  scoreless second stanza,  the Stars jumped  on top 2:19 into the 
third  after  St. Louis forward  David Backes fanned on  a pass near the right 
point and Benn intercepted the disc before pushing it ahead to Roussel. 

Roussel  then  raced past a  defender before flipping  a quick wrister from in 
front  that Miller got most of, but not enough to keep the puck from trickling 
across the goal line to make it 2-1. 

However,  Polak  answered with a  heavy slapper from the  high slot at 5:01 to 
retie the tilt. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  Stars  issued an  update on  Peverley's condition Tuesday  and said he is 
"resting  comfortably"  while undergoing more  tests in an attempt to discover 
what  triggered Monday's  episode ...  St. Louis  had a  five-game win  streak 
halted  ... The Blues went 0-for-3 on the power play, while Dallas finished 1- 
for-2 ... Dallas improved to 14-13-4 on the road this season. 

White Sox Clip Rangers

Glendale, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Alex Liddi hit a game-winning double in the 
ninth inning to lift the Chicago Solid White Sox to a 7-6 win over the Texas Rangers 
in Cactus League action. 

Matt Davidson and Gordon Beckham both homered and Jose Abreu went 3-for-4 with 
two  RBI for the White Sox. John Danks gave up four hits and three walks over 
five scoreless frames. 

Robinson  Chirinos, Michael Choice, Adam Rosales and Jim Adduci were among six 
Texas players to drive in a run. 

Joe  Saunders  was touched for four  runs -- three  earned -- on six hits over 
three innings. 

Cubs Hammered By Rockies

Mesa,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  - Kent Matthes belted a three-run homer and the 
Colorado  Rockies  banged out 16  hits Tuesday in a  13-0 win over the Chicago 
Cubs in spring training. 

Kyle Parker, Nolan Arenado and Ryan Wheeler each had a two-run homer and Jorge 
De La Rosa gave up two hits in a three-inning start. 

Five Rockies pitchers combined on the five-hit shutout. 

Cubs  starter Travis  Wood gave up five runs  on nine hits and a walk in 2 2/3 
innings. 

Wong Homers As Cards Fall To Mets

Jupiter,  FL (SportsNetwork.com)  - Zach  Lutz's solo  home run  in the  ninth 
inning  gave the  New York  Mets a  9-8 win  over the  St. Louis Cardinals in 
Grapefruit League play. 

Kirk  Nieuwenhuis hit a  three-run home run and Josh Satin smacked a solo shot 
for  the  Mets. Jon Niese  was touched for  four runs on  six hits in just two 
innings. 

Kolten  Wong smacked  a two-run home run while Allen Craig and Daniel Descalso 
each  drove  in two runs. Adam  Wainwright gave up a  run on two hits in 3 1/3 
innings. 

Bulls Fall To Spurs

Chicago,  IL  (SportsNetwork.com) - The San  Antonio Spurs showed why they own 
the  league's  best record  on Tuesday  with a dismantling  of a Chicago Bull
team fresh off one of their signature wins of the season. 

Manu  Ginobili scored  a team-high 22 points  as the Spurs raced out to a huge 
lead and picked up a 104-96 win whose final score skewed the one-sided affair. 

Tony  Parker donated 20 points and nine assists, Kawhi Leonard chipped in with 
16 points and nine rebounds and Patty Mills and Marco Belinelli contributed 10 
points apiece off the bench. 

San  Antonio,  which shot  61 percent  from the  field en  route to a 28-point 
halftime  lead, has  reeled off seven straight wins and improved to 14-3 since 
the start of February. 

"Best  first half we have played in a long time. Hopefully we are not peaking. 
It's not the right time," Ginobili said. 

Chicago  took  a step back following  Sunday's thrilling overtime win over the 
two-time  champion  Miami Heat.  D.J. Augustin scored  24 points, Jimmy Butler 
added 23 and Joakim Noah netted 13 with eight rebounds and seven assists. 

The Bulls  came in  tied with  Indiana for the  league's best scoring defense 
(92.2 ppg), and the Spurs chewed them up for 38 points in the opening quarter. 

Parker  outscored Chicago  single-handedly,  16-14, and  Leonard and  Ginobili 
added  10  and eight points, respectively,  as the threesome combined to shoot 
13-of-16 (81.3 percent) from the field in the lopsided start. 

Chicago missed 10 of its first 12 shots and found itself trailing 38-14 before 
the second quarter even commenced. 

San  Antonio's bench  picked up right where  its starters left off to open the 
second, as Belinelli drained two 3-pointers, Mills hit another and Aron Baynes 
added consecutive buckets for a commanding 51-19 cushion. 

Thanks  to  10 third-quarter points  from Ginobili, the Spurs maintained their 
comfortable  advantage the  rest of  the way  as both  benches emptied  in the 
fourth, which began with the visitors holding a 90-66 advantage. 

"There's nothing to take (from a game) when you get down by 30 and then make a 
run  at the  end. We've  got to  get  it figured  out," Bulls  head coach  Tom 
Thibodeau said. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  Spurs lost  at home to the Bulls, 96-86, on Jan. 29, though Ginobili and 
Leonard  both  missed that  contest ... The  Spurs' last loss  came Feb. 21 at 
Phoenix ... San Antonio is 9-3 in its last 12 trips to Chicago ... San Antonio 
shot  12-of-21 from 3-point range ... The Bulls made twice as many free throws 
(24-12). 

Rams Lose Saffold On First Day Of Free Agency

(Oakland, CA)  --  The Oakland Raiders are adding tackle Rodger Saffold to their offensive line.  NFL.com reports the team has inked Saffold to a five-year, 42.5-million-dollar contract.  The 25-year-old appeared in 12 games last season for the Rams, playing every position on the offensive line but center.  St. Louis selected Saffold in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft out of Indiana.  Saffold fills the void of tackle Jared Veldheer, who left to sign with Arizona. 

Bears Active On First Day Of Free Agency

The Chicago Bears continue to reshape their defense.  The "Chicago Tribune" reports the team has signed defensive end Lamarr Houston to a five-year contract, worth 35-million-dollars.  Houston totaled 69 tackles and six sacks last season for the Raiders.  In four seasons for Oakland, the University of Texas product tallied 16 sacks.  The Bears have also signed linebacker Jordan Senn to a one-year deal, safety Ryan Mundy to a two-year contract and re-signed linebacker D.J. Williams on a one-year pact.  

The Bears are cutting ties with veteran defensive end Julius Peppers.  The 34-year-old started all 64 games for Chicago in his four-year stint with the club.  The Bears signed him at the start of free agency in March of 2010 after he spent eight years with the Carolina Panthers.  Peppers has collected 118-and-a-half sacks, 39 forced fumbles and nine interceptions in his career. 

Fire Department Calls 3-12-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 11
3EMS, 1 Timber Fire, 1 Public Assist

March 12
3 EMS

Sarah Bush Lincoln Offers Sleep Study

The Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon is offering a sleep study for those with a variety of disorders.  One common source of sleep disturbance is restless leg syndrome.  Sleep Study Supervisor Rochelle Hendrickson says it can be caused by several different things:

Shelbyville Rotary Club Visits Shelbyville Manor

The Shelbyville Rotary Club held their weekly meeting at Shelbyville Manor. Member, Kristy Gorden invited the Club as guests, for lunch and an informational talk.

 width=

Gorden told the club that the meals prepared for the residents in Bounce Back are home-cooked. Bounce Back is a program that allows people to place to stay and recover on a short-term basis. Some of the activities include, the morning newspaper reading-to help those with vision problems, field trips-like to the Pumpkin Patch, and physical rehabilitation. An adult Day-care is offered as a place for families to care for their loved ones during the day.

 width=

Garden Court is the Alzheimer's\dementia unit. It offers a number of planned daily activities for the residents.  Among the many services available on-site are different therapists providing occupational, physical, respiratory, and speech therapies. AJ's Fitness assists in recovery from post-operative weakness, as well as hip and knee replacement recovery. The Club met Diana Agney, physical therapist, and Jim Watton, who works in the Restorative Program.

Shelbyville Manor and Hawthorne Inn are active in many events supporting the local community. They host blood donation drives and fundraisers for the Chautauqua building and have a volunteer program which is open to people in the community looking to volunteer their time or talent to help the residents.

Liz Nohren is the program coordinator for the next meeting. Her guest and keynote speaker will be Judge Erika Sanders. 

Community Garden to Start Second Year

With warmer weather making its way into Central Illinois, it’s time to think about the Community Garden.  Master Gardener Jerri Nieman says there will be a meeting on the topic tomorrow (Wednesday):

[audio:niemancommgarden031114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, the Community Garden in Taylorville is about to kick off its second year.

Whit?s End Opens in Taylorville

 width=450 height=338 /></p>						</div>

						<!-- BUTTON OPTIONS-->
											</div>
				</div>
			</article>
			
		    			
			
			
						<article class=

Sale Helps Sox Past Crew

Maryvale,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Andy  Wilkins stroked a two-run single to 
cap  Chicago's three-run ninth  inning, as the White Sox rallied for a 6-3 win 
over the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday in spring training action. 

Jordan  Danks added  a two-run homer for  the White Sox, who saw starter Chris 
Sale strike out three over 4 1/3 scoreless innings of two-hit ball. 

Adam  Weisenburger ripped  a  two-run  shot for  the  Brewers. Starter  Yovani 
Gallardo  fanned  three while giving  up just  two hits and  a walk over 3 1/3 
blank frames. 

Cubs Beat Giants

Scottsdale,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Christian Villanueva scored the go-ahead 
run  on a throwing error in the top of the seventh inning, lifting the Chicago 
Cubs  to a 3-2  win over the San Francisco Giants on Monday in spring training 
action. 

Chris  Coghlan and Emilio Bonifacio each added an RBI single for the Cubs, who 
saw  starter Jeff Samardzija strike out five while permitting two runs on five 
hits over four innings. 

San  Francisco  starter Matt Cain struck  out seven over five perfect innings, 
but the Cubs broke through against the Giants' bullpen in the sixth. 

Pablo  Sandoval  scorched a  two-run single  in the fourth  to account for San 
Francisco's offense. 

Cardinals Thumped By Tigers

Jupiter,  FL (SportsNetwork.com)  - Miguel Cabrera went 3-for-4 with a pair of 
two-run  homers  and Nick  Castellanos added  a three-run  shot as the Detroit 
Tigers hammered the St. Louis Cardinals 17-5 in Grapefruit League play. 

Castellanos finished 3-for-4 with four RBI. 

Steven  Moya also  drove in four runs  while Rajai Davis and Danny Worth added 
two  RBI  apiece for  the Tigers,  who went 11-for-20  with runners in scoring 
position.  Starter Max  Scherzer scattered two hits and struck out five over 4 
2/3 innings. 

Stephen  Piscotty smacked a  three-run homer and Pete Kozma drove in a run for 
the Cardinals. Shelby Miller allowed two runs on five hits and struck out for 
over 2 1/3 innings.  

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-11-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARREST:

Jessica L. Crossin, 27, of 1506 West Lawrence, Springfield, was arrested March 10 on an in-state warrant.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

On March 11 at 7:48pm, a Taylorville Police Department officer observed Dorothy M. Harter, 32, of Taylorville driving at Cleveland and Shawnee. The officer knew Harter to have a suspended driver's license. The officer stopped Harter and ran her information through the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System. Harter came back with a suspended license. Harter was arrested, processed and released on a notice to appear.

On March 8 at 1:36pm, a woman came to Taylorville Police Department to report that her son had battered her. She completed a written statement and requested that he be arrested. An officer made contact with Steven M. Frazier, 40, of St. Charles, Iowa at 621 North Ridge Apt #3. He was arrested for domestic battery.

On March 7, Taylorville Police Department officers went to 1316 South Houston Street and made contact with James R. Flanagan, 47, of Taylorville that the officers knew to have a valid warrant out of Coles County. The officers ran his information through the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System and verified the warrant. The officers placed Flanagan under arrest and transported him to the Christian County Correctional Center in lieu of bond.

Fire Department Calls 3-11-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 10
2 EMS, 1 Detector

March 11
2 EMS, 1 Alarm

Kincaid Village Board Votes to Keep Adams; Dismiss Village Clerk

The Kincaid Village Board met Monday night and was faced with 2 decisions on whether to keep or dismiss village employees. One of those decisions was for Chief of Police Richard Adams who is under investigation for allegedly using city employees to repair his home on city time. The Board trustees voted in a 3-3 tie but Mayor Doug Thomas voted in favor of Adams to break the tie thus keeping Adams who will remain on administrative leave. Village Clerk Cindy Orrison’s employment was another that came up for a vote. The Board voted to dismiss Orrison for allegedly messing up pay/overtime and violating the Open Meetings Act. Orrison’s dismissal is effective immediately. There is reportedly a petition circulating around Kincaid calling for Mayor Thomas to resign. Mayor Thomas is facing charges for violating an order of protection and drug possession after Christian County Sheriff’s deputies found prescription drugs in an unlabeled bottle on him last month. He will return to court April 14th for a preliminary hearing.  

Taylorville Kiwanis Hears About New TMH Senior Program at Weekly Meeting

 width=

Pictured left to right: Kiwanis President Chris Weittenhiller and Amy Graham.


The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard the director of the new Taylorville Memorial Hospital “Senior Life Solutions” program, as their weekly speaker Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

Registered nurse Amy Graham told Kiwanis members that the new program helps senior citizens cope with depression, sleeping problems, anxiety, anger, or behaviorial issues.

[audio:GrahamaudioMar1114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Patients come to group sessions 3 days a week, and can have individual sessions with a therpist as well. Patients can refer themselves to the program, or have family, friends, or their doctor refer them. The outpatient program typically is 45 days in length for an attendee, and is Medicare based for local residents 65 and older.

Taylorville High School Kiwanis Key Club president Nathan Hall, and 2 other members of the club, were in attendance at Tuesday’s Kiwanis Club meeting.

Bob Farris, owner of Bolinda’s Shoe Store, was a Kiwanis guest.

And it was announced that the Kiwanis Club will be involved in the upcoming Manners Park Easter Egg Hunt.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

Winter Weather Advisory Issued Until 1pm Wednesday for 2-5 Inches of Snow

 width=

Well, before we get used to the 65 degree temperatures we experienced in Central Illinois on Tuesday, there’s one more blast of winter left.

The National Weather Service in Lincoln has issued a winter weather advisory for the Regional Radio listening area from 10pm Tuesday until 1pm Wednesday, for 2 to 5 inches of snow. And an area from McLean County northward, is in a winter storm warning for the same time period for 5 to 7 inches of snow.

The Weather Service says colder air settling into the region this evening will collide with an incoming winter storm moving into southern IL by midnight. Rain is expected to spread from west to east this evening, with the chance for some thunderstorms south of I-72 this evening.

Rain will change over to snow from northwest to southeast from late evening into overnight. By early morning hours, precipitation north of I-70 should be all snow with areas southeast of I-70 changing to snow Wednesday morning. Wednesday morning commute will likely be hazardous by 3 to 6 inches of snow over central IL.

Lighter accumulations are expected south of the Advisory with generally 1 inch or less of accumulation due to warmer air and more rain than snow.

Strong north to northeast winds of 20 to 30 mph and gusts of 30 to 40 mph will develop by overnight into Wednesday and could cause some blowing snow especially from I-74 northeast where the heavier snowfall amounts of 5 to 7 inches will be.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for the latest in weather information.

Krieger?s Offers Many Services

Krieger’s Restaurant in Taylorville recently opened its expanded Banquet Room facilities, and the management is reminding area residents about some of the things they do at Krieger’s.  General Manager Carrie Molohon says they offer a number of services that you may not be aware of:

[audio:kriegersextraservices031014.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Krieger’s is located on Bidwell Street in the GrandPlazaShopping Center. 

Tax Time Approaching

April 15th is just a little over a month away now.  Laurie Henry of H and R Block tells Regional Radio listeners that there are not a lot of changes this year, but there are a few things you need to know:

[audio:henry2014taxes031014.mp3]comment here[/audio]

H and R block has locations in Taylorville, Pana, Nokomis and Shelbyville.

Early Same Sex Marriage License Not in Near Future for Christian County

Several counties in Illinois have announced that they will be issuing same sex marriage licenses before June 1st. Christian County Clerk Linda Curtin says that at the moment, early licenses are not in the immediate future for Christian County:

[audio:curtinsamesexlicensecc031114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The three counties in Illinois that have announced early same sex marriage licenses are Cook, Champaign, and McLean Counties

Ekey's last-second three lifts Illinois past No. 24 Iowa

Iowa  City, IA (SportsNetwork.com) - Jon Ekey rose up from the wing and buried 
a  contested 3-pointer  with 0.5 seconds left  to lift Illinois to a 66-63 win 
over No. 24 Iowa on Saturday. 

Ekey,  who  finished with  12 points off  the bench, knocked  down a trey with 
three  minutes  left to give  the Illini a 63-59  lead before Roy Devyn Marble 
and Gabriel Olaseni converted back-to-back layups to tie the game at 63-apiece 
to set up the late-game heroics. 

Rayvonte  Rice paced  Illinois (18-13,  7-11 Big  Ten) with  15 points,  while 
Nnanna  Egwu and  Kendrick  Nunn scored  14 and  10  points, respectively,  in 
the Illini's fourth win in their last five games. 

Aaron  White  led Iowa (20-11,  9-9) with 12 points  and eight rebounds in the 
setback.  Adam  Woodbury and Mike Gesell  each netted 11 points, while seniors 
Marble  and Melsahn Basabe scored eight and six points, respectively, in their 
final game at Carver Hawkeye Arena. 

Iowa  has lost  two straight to close  the regular season and five of its last 
six  overall. The  loss also snapped a 30-game home winning streak to unranked 
opponents. 

Olaseni  hit  a jumper to give  the Hawkeyes a  54-48 lead with 11 1/2 minutes 
left  in the  second half.  Illinois  answered with  an 11-0  spurt that  Ekey 
started with a three-point play. Egwu capped the run with a jumper to give the 
Illini a 59-54 advantage with under seven minutes to go. 

Woodbury  followed with  a jumper before Gesell  converted a 3 to tie the game 
at 59-59 entering the home stretch. 

Earlier, Ekey knocked down a 3-pointer with just under 14 minutes remaining in 
the  first  half to stake Illinois  to a 20-6  lead. The Illini would cool off 
from  there, going nearly eight minutes without a field goal as Iowa crept its 
way back into the contest. 

Zach  McCabe followed Ekey's triple with a 3 of his own, and Iowa proceeded to 
go on an elongated 17-1 run. White scored six straight points for the Hawkeyes 
and Gesell's jumper with 6 1/2 to play capped the spurt for a 23-21 lead. 

Rice  made a dunk  to end the field goal drought for Illinois and tie the game 
at 23-23. 

Woodbury  scored seven straight  for Iowa and Basabe hit a jumper as the first 
half came to a close to give the Hawkeyes a 34-29 lead at the break. 

                                   Game Notes 

Illinois shot 25-for-54 from the floor, while Iowa converted 24-of-54 attempts 
from  the  field ...  Marble shot  3-for-11 from  the floor  in defeat ... The 
Illini owned a 34-29 edge on the boards. 

Blues beat Wild for fifth straight win

St. Paul, MN (SportsNetwork.com) - How's the view from the top, StLouis

T.J.  Oshie  and Alexander Steen  each scored in  the shootout as the visiting 
Blues  overcame squandering  a two-goal lead to beat Minnesota 3-2 and end the 
Wild's six-game winning streak at Xcel Energy Center. 

An  eighth straight  win  against the  Wild and  a  fifth consecutive  victory 
overall  vaulted StLouis ahead  of  Anaheim for  the  top spot  in the  NHL 
standings. 

Brian  Elliott had  17 saves  through regulation  and overtime  before turning 
away both Minnesota chances in the tiebreaker. 

"They (Wild) play a defensive shutdown system and we try and do the same," 
said Elliot on the challenges playing the Wild. "It's tough generating 
chances sometimes." 

Ilya  Bryzgalov made 20 saves in his debut with the Wild. He was acquired from 
Edmonton on Tuesday. 

Minnesota  had a chance  to end the game in regulation, with St. Louis forward 
Patrik  Berglund  whistled for  roughing with  1:29 to go.  The Wild failed to 
convert on the power play and the game was decided in a shootout. 

Oshie  used a  deke to the forward  and fired the puck over Bryzgalov's glove. 
After  Elliott  disrupted Mikko Koivu's attempt  with a poke check, Steen beat 
Bryzgalov on the blocker side with a wrist shot. 

"It would've been nice to get the two points, but I'm pretty pleased with the 
game our team played," Wild head coach Mike Yeo said. 

The  Blues  scored twice in  the first period  before Minnesota rallied with a 
pair of second-period strikes. 

Oshie  opened the scoring  on a power play at 3:37 and a turnover in their own 
zone  by the Wild led to Carlo Colaiacovo lighting the lamp on a shot from the 
high slot at 8:30. 

Jason  Pominville  put the Wild  on the board, firing  a wrister from the left 
circle in off the far post at 3:11 of the middle frame. 

Minnesota  tied  the game when  Koivu picked off  a clearing attempt along the 
boards  and dished to recent acquisition Matt Moulson, who redirected the pass 
in for his first goal with the Wild at 7:03. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  Blues  improved to 18-0-1 against  Central Division teams this season ... 
Rookie goaltender Darcy Kuemper had started 16 consecutive games for Minnesota 
... St. Louis head coach Ken Hitchcock earned his 649th career win to pass Ron 
Wilson for seventh place on the NHL's all-time list

Toews, Blackhawks edge Sabres

Buffalo,  NY  (SportsNetwork.com) - Jonathan Toews  scored to a break a third- 
period  tie  and the Chicago Blackhawks  edged the Buffalo Sabres 2-1 at First 
Niagara Center. 

Buffalo native Patrick Kane had the other Chicago goal and Corey Crawford made 
20 saves as the Blackhawks topped the Sabres for the fifth straight time. 

Drew  Stafford lit the  lamp for the Sabres, who had their home winning streak 
snapped at three games. Jhonas Enroth was stellar in defeat with 29 saves. 

"There's some good signs. When you're rebuilding you look for certain things," 
Sabres interim head coach Ted Nolan said. "Jhonas is one of those guys." 

Toews  finished off a nice passing sequence on a rush, firing home a feed from 
Brandon Saad for the go-ahead tally with 1:34 gone in the third. 

The  Chicago captain then  set up Andrew Shaw on an 2-on-1 break a few minutes 
later, but Enroth turned the shot away with his right pad. 

Crawford  preserved  the one-goal lead  with a glove  save on Brian Flynn, who 
drew a hooking penalty with 5:32 remaining. 

The  Sabres  couldn't convert on the  power play and finished 0-for-5 with the 
man advantage. 

Kane  opened the  scoring wight a highlight-reel  goal at the 3:12 mark of the 
first  period. With one  hand on his stick, Kane managed to get around Buffalo 
defenseman  Christian Ehrhoff while maintaining control of the puck and ripped 
a wrister top shelf from between the circles. 

"It  was nice  to score early and  settle down after that," said Kane. "It's a 
big two points for us." 

Stafford tied the game six minutes later. A trailing Cory Conacher, making his 
Buffalo  debut, took a  pass from Tyler Ennis, faked a shot and threw the puck 
toward  the crease.  Stafford was at the  right post and put the puck into the 
open net at 9:11. 

Conacher,  who  played hockey at Canisius  College in Buffalo, was claimed off 
waivers Wednesday from Ottawa. 

                                   Game Notes 

The  Sabres  have lost  five straight in  the series for  the first time since 
dropping the first five meetings between the clubs from Oct. 25, 1970-Feb. 17, 
1971 ... Buffalo's last win over Chicago came Dec. 11, 2009 ... The Blackhawk
were also 0-for-5 on the power play. 

White Sox, A's Tie

Phoenix, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Josh Donaldson hit his first home run of the 
spring  as the Oakland  Athletics and Chicago White Sox played to a 2-2 tie on 
Sunday in Cactus League play. 

Eric  Sogard  went 2-for-3 with an  RBI for Oakland, while starter Dan Straily 
pitched  3  1/3 innings of  scoreless ball, allowing  two hits and three walks 
with two strikeouts. 

Jeff  Keppinger drove in  a run for Chicago and the White Sox tied the game in 
the eighth inning on a fielding error by Oakland's Jake Elmore. 

Chicago  starter Erik Johnson allowed one run on four hits and struck out five 
in four innings of work. 

Cubs Handle Brew Crew

Mesa,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) -  Justin Ruggiano went  3-for-3 with a two-run 
homer, three RBI and two runs scored, as the Chicago Cubs downed the Milwaukee 
Brewers, 10-8, on Sunday in spring training action. 

Brett  Jackson  and Junior Lake each  drove in two runs, while Chicago starter 
Kyle Hendricks surrendered two runs on three hits and two walks while striking 
out four over three innings of work. 

Pete  Orr went 2-for-2  with two RBI and a run scored for the Brewers, who saw 
starter Tyler Thornburg give up two runs on three hits over four frames. 

Cardinals Rolled By Nationals; Ink Carpenter, Diaz

Viera,  FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Wilson Ramos drove in three runs to help lift 
the  Washington Nationals  to an 11-1 Grapefruit League win over the St. Loui
Cardinals. 

Ramos  was one of four Washington players with two hits. Anthony Rendon belted 
a solo homer and scored two runs. 

Stephen  Strasburg  tossed three  innings in  the start  for the Nationals. He 
allowed  one run  on two hits and  walked two. Five other pitchers combined to 
hold the Cardinals to one hit. 

Joe  Kelly Started for St. Louis and allowed five runs on seven hits in 2 1/3 
innings. 

 

>>Cardinals Ink Carpenter 

(Jupiter, FL)  --  The St. Louis Cardinals are locking up infielder Matt Carpenter long term.  The two agreed to a new deal for six seasons, and multiple reports say it's for 52-million-dollars with an option for the 2020 season.  He finished fourth in the National League MVP vote in 2013.  Carpenter led the league with 126 runs, 199 hits and 55 doubles last season. 

>>Cards Sign Cuban IF Diaz 

(Viera, FL)  --  The St. Louis Cardinals are bringing in 23-year-old Cuban shortstop Aledmys Diaz.  He is expected to report to spring training today.  He played five seasons in his native Cuba.  He hit .315 with 12 home runs and 11 steals in 2012. 

Bulls top Heat in OT

Chicago,  IL  (SportsNetwork.com) -  The Chicago Bulls prevented LeBron James 
from  making a  trip to the foul  line in their 95-88 overtime victory against 
the Miami Heat on Sunday. 

With  Jimmy Butler  as his primary defender, James scored 17 points on 8-of-23 
shooting  from the field. In addition, James did not attempt a free throw in a 
game for the first time since Dec. 2, 2009. 

Butler  recorded 16  points, 11 rebounds, four steals and one block. His block 
came against James in the final second of regulation. 

Joakim  Noah had 20 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists and five blocks for the 
Bulls,  who have  split the  first  two games  of a  six-game homestand.  D.J. 
Augustin tallied 22 points. 

"I want what they have -- a championship," Noah said. "One day, we're going to 
have to get through those guys." 

Dwyane  Wade ended with  25 points for the Heat, who have lost three in a row. 
Chris Bosh donated 15 points. 

The  Heat extended  their lead  to 74-62  on James'  slam with  10:16 left  in 
regulation. 

But  the Bulls scored the  next 13  points to go  in front. Butler capped the 
surge with a pair of free throws to make it 75-74. 

It  remained close  and the  game was  tied at  84 on  James' layup  with 1:10 
remaining.  Wade followed with a steal before making two free throws with 29.2 
seconds left. 

Kirk Hinrich responded with a layup at the other end to tie the game. The game 
went  to overtime after Butler stripped the ball away from James as he went up 
for a layup with less than one second remaining. 

"I  dropped  the ball. It's  like a double  entendre," James said. "I actually 
dropped  the ball, but I dropped the ball on my team. I had it. That's a great 
play.  I give a lot of credit to Jimmy. He got his hand on the ball, but I had 
the lane. I had the layup." 

Chicago  dominated the extra session, which Augustin started with a 3-pointer. 
The home team scored the first nine points of overtime and never looked back. 

Earlier,  the Bulls  led  21-19  after the  first  quarter.  Miami,  however, 
controlled  the pace  of play in the  second period and took a 43-37 lead into 
the locker room. 

The Heat led 67-59 after three quarters of play. 

                                   Game Notes 

The Bulls and Heat  split four games this season ... Miami went 21-of-22 from 
the  foul line ...  Norris Cole had 11 points for the Heat ... Hinrich tallied 
11 points and two steals for the Bulls. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-10-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CRASHES:

On March 9, Sandra A. Litton of Macon was traveling north on Route 51 when she feel asleep. Litton woke up and saw a deer and swerved to miss the deer. Litton missed the deer and hit a guardrail causing major damage to the guardrail and the vehicle. No injuries were reported.

On March 7, Richard R. Young IV of Edinburg was westbound on 2100 North Road. Young crossed the intersection at 1100 East Road and lost control of the vehicle. Young began to skid and traveled 100ft before crossing the center line into the eastbound lane. Young then began sliding sideways as he crossed back into the westbound lane. Young then went off the roadway into the north ditch. Young traveled in the muddy field and overturned once coming to a reast on the roof facing south west. Young was transported to Memorial Medical Center for treatment of injuries.

ARRESTS:

Jacqueline R. Girard, 29, of 1824 East 600 North, Owaneco, was arrested March 7 for driving on a suspended license and for possession of drug paraphernalia.

James R. Flanagan, 47, of 1316 South Houston Street, Taylorville, was arrested March 7 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear.

Davante D. Reed, 21, of Lincoln Shire, Decatur, was arrested March 7 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear and for driver's license revoked/suspended.

Steven M. Frazier, 40, of 3392 265th Street, St. Charles, Iowa, was arrested March 8 for domestic battery.

Donald R. Linton, 33, of 1738 North 600 East Road, Edinburg, was arrested March 8 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear.

Shayne E. Odell, 40, of 1215 Springfield Street, Kincaid, was arrested March 9 for battery.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARREST:

On March 7 at 11:17pm, Taylorville Police Department officers made a traffic stop on a vehicle for failing to stop at a stop sign. Following the investigation, Vincent De La Cruz, 32, of Taylorville was arrested for driving while license is revoked. De La Cruz was transported to Taylorville Police Department, processed, and released with a notice to appear.

One More Blast of Winter Possible Tuesday Night, Wednesday; 2-5 Inches of Show Expected

The National Weather Service in Lincoln issued a special weather statement late Monday afternoon, about changing weather affecting Central Illinois on Wednesday.

The Weather Service says RAIN AND A FEW THUNDERSTORMS WILL DEVELOP OVER PARTS OF CENTRAL THROUGH EAST CENTRAL MISSOURI BY TUESDAY EVENING AND TRACK ACROSS PARTS OF SOUTH CENTRAL ILLINOIS...WHILE FURTHER NORTH...A STEADY
RAIN WILL DEVELOP FROM SOUTHWEST TO NORTHEAST. RAIN IS THEN FORECAST
TO GRADUALLY CHANGE OVER TO SNOW LATE TUESDAY EVENING...AND
ESPECIALLY DURING THE EARLY MORNING HOURS OF WEDNESDAY.

The Weather Service adds that BY THE TIME
THE SNOW ENDS LATE WEDNESDAY MORNING OVER THE EAST...ACCUMULATIONS OF SNOW WILL RANGE FROM 2 TO 5 INCHES...WITH LOCALLY HIGHER TOTALS
EAST OF INTERSTATE 55. THE MORE CONCENTRATED BAND OF SNOW WILL BE
ALONG AND EAST OF A PEORIA TO LINCOLN LINE.

A FEW LOCATIONS MAY SEE A MIX WITH SLEET JUST BEFORE THE CHANGEOVER TO SNOW OCCURS
LATE AT NIGHT. NORTHEAST TO NORTH WINDS ARE EXPECTED TO INCREASE
TO BETWEEN 20 AND 30 MPH WITH GUSTS AROUND 35 MPH AT TIMES.

The Weather Service says AT THIS TIME...IT APPEARS THE SNOW WILL BE RATHER SLUSHY AS TEMPERATURES
WILL BE AROUND THE FREEZING MARK LATE TUESDAY NIGHT BEFORE FALLING
OFF BY DAWN WEDNESDAY WHEN THE SNOW IS EXPECTED TO BE DIMINISHING...SO
THE THREAT FOR WIDESPREAD BLOWING AND DRIFTING SNOW APPEARS LOW AT
THIS TIME.

MOST OF THE ACCUMULATING SNOWS SHOULD PUSH EAST OF OUR AREA BY
LATE WEDNESDAY MORNING...FOLLOWED BY COLDER WEATHER FOR THE REST
OF THE DAY. IF YOU HAVE TRAVEL PLANS ANYWHERE ACROSS THE MIDWEST
OVER THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAYS...KEEP TRACK OF THE LATER FORECASTS
ON THIS DEVELOPING STORM SYSTEM. ANY SHIFT IN THE TRACK FURTHER
NORTH OR SOUTH FOR LATER TUESDAY NIGHT INTO WEDNESDAY WILL HAVE A
DRAMATIC AFFECT ON PRECIPITATION TYPE AND AMOUNTS IN OUR AREA.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for further updates on this changing weather situation.

 

Taylorville School Board Approves Bass Fishing Club at High School

The Taylorville School Board approved a request to institute a Bass Fishing Club at the High School. Matt Morrison, who was on hand to make the request, tells the Board about the Club:

[audio:morrisonbassclub031114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Morrison says the Club will be self-funded and will be of no cost to the District.

 

The Taylorville School Board recognized North Elementary Principal Brandi Bruley for being awarded the Horace Mann 2014-2015 Elementary School Principal of the Year. President Steve Milling congratulated her on the award:

[audio:millingcongratulate031114.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The award is based on a member’s outstanding contributions to his or her students and learning community. Bruley is also eligible to compete for the National Distinguished Principal of the Year award.

 

The Taylorville School Board approved the District Master Calendar for the 2014-15 school year and approved their Illinois High School Association Membership. The Board also approved the Taylorville High School Early Dismissal Incentive. The Board approved to move the pre-school program that is currently at Memorial School to Central School and to move all 4th grade classes to Memorial.

The meeting adjourned at 8:21pm

Taylorville Kiwanis Donates Food; Presents Check to Food Pantry

 width=

The Taylorville Kiwanis club presented the Taylorville Food Pantry with non perishable food items and a monetary donation collected throughout the month of February. Pictured left to right: Wilbur Mills, Don Readhead, and Kiwanian Duane Stock. 

Taylorville Fire Department to Host Child Car Seat Safety Check

The Taylorville Fire Department is hosting a child car seat safety check this Wednesday. A trained technician will be on hand to inspect car seats from 3:00 to 6:00pm at the Fire Department. The Taylorville Fire Department is located 202 North Main Street. 

Extension Hosts Public Meeting

     The University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 Council and staff conducted a public meeting for Christian County at their Taylorville office on February 27. The purpose of the meeting was to inform the public of the programs currently being offered by the Unit and to seek comment from the public. Over 30 people were in attendance representing county government, education, health care, Extension Council, Master Gardeners, the business community, as well as interested individuals. 

      The meeting began with a presentation by Unit staff on programs and services the Extension currently offers. Extension staff then received feedback from the attendees as to what they felt were areas of concern for the community and what new educational programs or services could be offered.

      Input from this meeting will help the Unit determine what additional programs are needed and how best to serve the region going forward.  The meeting also helped identify new collaborative opportunities, which will aid in the development of new educational opportunities. 

    A report containing the presentations and comments will be made available to attendees, as well as to the public.  Anyone interested in receiving a copy of this report, when it becomes available is asked to contact the Christian County Extension office by calling 287-7246.

Gowin Parc in Taylorville to Offer Alzheimer?s Support Group

Gowin Parc in Taylorville is starting an Alzheimer’s Support Group which will have its first meeting this Tuesday. Jenni Stephens, Director at Gowin Parc, tells Regional Radio News about the group:

[audio:stephensalzsupport030814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

For more information, contact Jenni Stephens at 287-7000.

Police Continue Investigation into Kincaid Council Member?s Car Being Damaged

Police are continuing their investigation into the vandalizing of Kincaid Council Member Dennis R. Williams’ vehicle. On March 1 at 6:15pm, a Christian County Sheriff’s Deputy responded to 309 Willow Street in Kincaid to assist Kincaid Police with a criminal damage to property. Williams had reported someone entered his garage overnight and damaged his 2002 Chevrolet truck. Williams noticed the damage and contacted his daughter, Renee Williams. Renee then contacted Kincaid Police. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says this is a terrible situation:

[audio:sheriffkincaidcardamage030814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

With Williams being an elected board member for the village of Kincaid, the Kincaid officer requested Christian County Sheriff’s Office handle the report of the damage.

The Kincaid officer also stated that Williams had previously received a phone call from an unknown subject telling Williams he better cast the correct vote with the ongoing police and mayor issue or his vehicle would be damaged.

The 2002 Chevrolet had both the front and rear windshields busted, four sliced tires, several puncture holes in the hood, and scratch marks all the way down both sides of the vehicle. 

Blues Beat Nashville

Nashville,  TN  (SportsNetwork.com) - Last  week's acquisitions of Ryan Miller 
and Steve Ott continue to pay immediate dividends for the St. Louis Blues. 

Miller  turned  aside 20-of-21 shots  to remain  unbeaten in a Blues' uniform, 
while  Ott assisted  on one of two  St. Louis goals in the club's 2-1 decision 
over the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. 

Magnus  Paajarvi recorded  the game-winning  score  with 8:18  elapsed in  the 
second  period,  with Ian  Cole registering a  goal and an  assist to help the 
Blues  remain two points ahead of rival Chicago for first place in the Central 
Division. 

St.  Louis is 3-0-0  since Miller and Ott joined the team two days after being 
acquired from the Buffalo Sabres last Friday. 

Nashville's  Pekka Rinne stopped 20-of-22 chances in his second game back from 
a  hip injury,  but the  Predators mustered  only Nick  Spaling's first-period 
score in falling to 1-4-2 over their last seven games. 

Paajarvi sent the Blues in front with an impressive individual effort near the 
midway mark of the second period. Receiving the puck in his own end, the young 
Swede  blew past  a defender  on a  rush  up the  right side  prior to  firing 
a wrister through Rinne's pads that snapped a 1-1 deadlock. 

Rinne  kept  it a one-goal game  by stoning Alex  Steen on a penalty shot with 
4:33  to go in  the second, but Nashville got off just five shots in the final 
frame as Miller made the lead hold up. 

Roman  Josi had  the Predators'  best scoring  chance of  the third  period, a 
close-range  attempt  that Miller  blocked with the  teams skating 4-on-4 with 
around seven minutes left. 

Cole's successful riser off Ott's faceoff win in the Nashville zone staked St. 
Louis  to a 1-0  edge just 4:03 in. The Blues mustered only one more shot over 
the  remainder of the first period, however, and the Predators drew even later 
in the frame. 

Operating  from  the right  corner of  the St.  Louis zone, Nashville's Patric 
Hornqvist  sent a  centering feed that Spaling successfully tipped past Miller 
while crashing the net with 10:28 elapsed in the game. 

                                   Game Notes 

The Blues  posted their  fifth straight victory  over the Predators, matching 
their  longest win  streak in the series  originally set from Dec. 30, 2001 to 
Oct.  30, 2002. St.  Louis has also prevailed in five consecutive trips to the 
Music City ... The Blues improved to 16-0-1 against Central Division opponents 
... Nashville captain Mike Fisher extended his point streak to five games with 
an  assist on Spaling's  tally ... Rinne has now held the Blues to three goals 
or less in 26 straight matchups against them. 

Blackhawks Blast Blue Jackets

Chicago,  IL (SportsNetwork.com) - Jonathan Toews and Andrew Shaw both tallied 
twice,  as  Chicago trounced Columbus  for the  12th consecutive time, 6-1, at 
United Center. 

Bryan  Bickell and  Brandon  Bollig also  hit  the  back of  the  net for  the 
Blackhawks,  winners  in two  of  three  to keep  pace  in  the race  for  the 
Central  Division crown. St. Louis beat Nashville by a 2-1 count to remain two 
points ahead. 

Brent  Seabrook and  Marcus Kruger  each  collected two  assists, while  Corey 
Crawford stopped 22 shots. 

Ryan  Johansen  provided the lone offense  for the Blue Jackets, who saw their 
three-game  win streak halted and have not beaten their former division rivals 
since a 4-3 decision on Feb. 18, 2011. 

Sergei Bobrovsky allowed four goals on 18 shots in 32-plus minutes to take the 
loss. Curtis McElhinney finished the contest with 13 stops. 

Ahead  by  a goal,  Chicago locked  up the  contest with  three strikes in the 
middle frame. 

Toews  provided a  3-1 margin  at  the eight-minute  mark of  the second  when 
he  tapped in  a Brandon Saad pass  at the right post, and Bickell boosted the 
home  advantage to 4-1  with 12:29 gone off a Kris Versteeg rebound which sent 
Bobrovsky to the bench. 

Seabrook's  left-point blast  with 2:16 before intermission was deflected home 
by Shaw and gave Chicago a 5-1 edge. 

Patrick Kane fed Toews for a rising shot over a seated McElhinney for a power- 
play strike and 6-1 advantage at 3:04 of the third. 

Bollig's  backhanded  shot put  the hosts on  the board with  4:12 gone in the 
first  period,  then Johansen evened the  score just prior to the eight-minute 
mark. 

Shaw  sent the Blackhawks to intermission up by a goal, when he cruised up the 
right wing and beat Bobrovsky to the near side. 

                                   Game Notes 

Thursday's  contest marked  the first  time  the Blackhawks  and Blue  Jackets 
squared  off  as inter-conference  rivals. Columbus was  placed in the Central 
Division  along with  Chicago upon its 2000 inception and remained their until 
this  season  ... Blue Jackets defenseman  Nikita Nikitin left the game in the 
first  period, returned in  the second, then left once more and did not return 
with what is being called an upper-body injury. 

White Sox Can't Win Split Squad Games

Surprise,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - The White Sox scored twice in the top of 
the ninth, and the Cactus League game between Chicago and Kansas City ended in 
a 6-6 tie. 

Micah  Johnson had  three hits  and scored  the tying  run in  the ninth  on a 
groundout, while Jose Abreu clubbed a two-run homer for the White Sox. 

Alex  Gordon was  3-for-3 with an RBI  and two runs scored for the Royals, who 
got three shutout innings from starter Jason Vargas. 

 

Phoenix,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Cole Gillespie  knocked in two runs as the 
Seattle Mariners topped the Chicago White Sox, 7-4, in Cactus League action.

Jesus  Montero wrapped  up Seattle's  three-run  seventh with  an RBI  single, 
breaking  a  4-4 tie.  Scott  Baker  threw the  first  three  innings for  the 
Mariners, allowing a run on three hits. 

Chicago  starter John Danks held Seattle to a hit over three scoreless frames. 
Adam Eaton went 3-for-3 and Carlos Sanchez had two RBI. 

Cubs Fall To Indians

Goodyear, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Justin Masterson led five Cleveland hurlers 
on  a  combined nine-hit shutout in  the Indians' 1-0 spring training win over 
the Chicago Cubs. 

Masterson  scattered  three hits and a  walk while striking out three over the 
first  three  frames, with  Aaron Harang  and Trevor  Bauer following with two 
scoreless innings apiece. 

Cubs  starter  Trevor Wood  yielded just  one hit and  fanned three over three 
innings  of work before giving way to Justin Grimm, who surrendered the game's 
only run with a bases-loaded walk to Asdrubal Cabrera in the fourth. 

Emilio Bonifacio and Anthony Rizzo collected two hits each for Chicago. 

Cardinals Rained Out; Close To Deal With Carpenter


(Fort Myers, FL)  --  The spring training game between the Cardinals and Twins in Fort Myers yesterday was cancelled due to rain.  Adam Wainwright was set to make his debut this spring, but he will now pitch today in Jupiter against the Marlins.  Waino will throw two innings and will be followed by today's originally scheduled starter, Lance Lynn. 


(Jupiter, FL)  --  The Cardinals are close to signing infielder Matt Carpenter to a multi-year deal.  FOX Sports says the contract is in the neighborhood of six seasons for 50 to 55-million-dollars.  Carpenter led the league with 126 runs, 199 hits and 55 doubles last season.  He added a .318 average and 78 RBI in 157 games. 

Bears Sign DE Scott

(Lake Forest, IL)  --  The Bears signed defensive end Trevor Scott to a one-year contract on Thursday.  The 29-year-old appeared in only four games for Tampa Bay last season before getting cut in October.  In 2012, Scott played in 14 games for New England, where he had 14 tackles and three sacks.  Scott has appeared in 76 games with 18 starts across six seasons. 

Bulls' Noah Recruiting 'Melo

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is apparently trying to recruit pending free agent Carmelo Anthony to join the Bulls.  ESPN's Chris Broussard reports Noah approached Anthony during All-Star weekend in New Orleans last month about signing with Chicago.  According to sources, Noah told Anthony he can go to Los Angeles, but if he really wants to win a ring and have a legacy about winning he should come to Chicago.  'Melo reportedly responded by saying he admires how hard the Bulls play and even mentioned that guard Derrick Rose is his son's favorite player. 

Taylorville Faces Glenwood in Regional Final

Coming up tonight on Regional Radio

On Newstalk 97.3 WTIM, the Taylorville Tornadoes boys' basketball team faces the Glenwood Titans in the Regional Final. Broadcast start at 6:45pm.

Pana Students of Month Feb. 2014

 width=450 height=338 /></p>						</div>

						<!-- BUTTON OPTIONS-->
											</div>
				</div>
			</article>
			
		    			
			
			
						<article class=

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-7-14

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARREST:

On March 5 at 5:18pm, Taylorville Police Department officers initiated a traffic stop near Morton and Vandeveer Streets. Following the investigation, Jessica R. Mizeur, 32, of Taylorville was arrested for driving while license suspended. Mizeur was transported to Taylorville Police Department, processed, and released with a notice to appear.

Kincaid Village Board Member Has Car Vandalized

A Kincaid village board member had his car vandalized this past weekend. On March 1 at 6:15pm, a Christian County Sheriff’s Deputy responded to 309 Willow Street in Kincaid to assist Kincaid Police with a criminal damage to property. Upon arrival, a Kincaid officer stated he received a call for damage to a vehicle parked inside the garage at 309 Willow.

The owner of the vehicle Dennis R. Williams had reported someone entered his garage overnight and damaged his 2002 Chevrolet truck. Williams noticed the damage and contacted his daughter, Renee Williams. Renee then contacted Kincaid Police.

Williams is an elected board member for the village of Kincaid. For this reason, the Kincaid officer requested Christian County Sheriff’s Office handle the report of the damage.

The Kincaid officer stated that Williams had previously received a phone call from an unknown subject telling Williams he better cast the correct vote with the ongoing police and mayor issue or his vehicle would be damaged.

The 2002 Chevrolet had both the front and rear windshields busted, four sliced tires, several puncture holes in the hood, and scratch marks all the way down both sides of the vehicle. 

Taylorville Boys Basketball

As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville boys fell to Glenwood with a score of 63-45.

Hall Certified as Radio Marketing Professional, Digital Media Consultant

          Jolene Hall, the recently named Director of Digital Media and Promotions for the Miller Media Group in Taylorville and Clinton, has successfully met the requirements to earn the designation of both Radio Marketing Professional (RMP) and Certified Digital Marketing Consultant (CDMC), as certified by the Radio Advertising Bureau.

 

          The Radio Marketing Professional (RMP) designation is the first step in a comprehensive, multi-level training and certification program developed and administered by the Radio Advertising Bureau.  RMP graduates must complete a rigorous course of study that focuses on mastering the knowledge and skills necessary to help local businesses maximize their advertising success.  To earn their RMP diploma, candidates must pass a challenging one-hour written examination.

 

          The Certified Digital Marketing Consultant (CDMC) designation is part of the Radio Advertising Bureau's certification program to educate graduates to help local businesses in monetizing the many digital platforms offered by radio stations.

 

          The Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) is the sales and marketing arm of the Radio Industry with more than 5,000 member stations, networks, and related sales organizations in the U.S. and abroad.

Taylorville Chamber Save the Dates

You might want to mark your calendars for some upcoming dates.  Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle says they have some important things coming up:

Putting Small Acres to Work

If you have a few acres of land that you’d like to put to use, the University of Illinois Extension has a seminar coming up that might interest you.  Terri Miller, Publicity and promotions Manager of the Extension says there are several options to consider:

[audio:millerextensionacres030714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the Extension’s Hillsboro office at 532-3941with questions.

Cover Crops One of the Emerging Projects at Dudley Smith Farm

The Dudley Smith Research Farm has been busy lately with several projects. Gary Letterly with the University of Illinois Extension, tells Regional Radio News that one of the emerging projects right now deals with cover crops:

[audio:letterlycovercrops030714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Dudley Smith Farm is located off of Route 29 between Taylorville and Pana.

Committee of Ten to Hold Final Public Information Meeting

The Morrisonville-Panhandle Committee of Ten will have their final public information meeting this upcoming Monday.  Co-chairman Dale Brockamp (Bro-camp) tells Regional Radio News about the final meeting:

[audio:brockampfinalmeet030714.mp3]comment here[/audio]

In addition to attending the final public meeting, residents are encouraged to go on-line and visit the Committee of Ten’s website at: www.mp-c10.info for more information regarding the proposed consolidation.  

Myers: Some Social Security Income is Taxable

Tax time is approaching, and a lot of questions come up regarding Social Security income.  Jack Myers, Public Affairs Specialist from the Springfield Social Security Office, says some of it is taxable:

[audio:myerssstaxable030614.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Find out more at socialsecurity.gov.

New Banquet Hall at Kreiger?s Now Open

 width=

The new banquet hall at Kreiger’s Sports Grill in Taylorville is now open. General Manager Carrie Molohon tells Regional Radio News about the new banquet hall:

[audio:molohonnewhall030614.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Krieger’s is located in the Grand Plaza Shopping Center on Bidwell Street in Taylorville. For more information, you can call Krieger’s at 287-7677.

 width=

The original banquet hall. There is an opening connecting the new to the old.

 width=

 width=

Two $1000 UWCC Scholarships Available

The University Women of Christian County are offering two scholarships for graduate or undergraduate studies for the Fall 2014 semester. Chairperson Mary Louise Kane tells Regional Radio News the details:

[audio:kanescholarships030614.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Judging for the award of the scholarships will be based on academic record, future career goals, employment experience, school and community involvement, and financial need. For additional information, contact Mary Louise Kane at 824-4457.

Augustin, Noah boost Bulls past Pistons

Auburn  Hills,  MI (SportsNetwork.com) -  D.J. Augustin  had 26 points and six 
assists  off  the bench and  Joakim Noah added  a triple-double as the Chicago 
Bulls defeated the Detroit Pistons 105-94 on Wednesday night. 

Noah  tallied 10 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists for Chicago, which has won 
10  of its last 12 games. It was Noah's second triple-double in the last three 
games. 

"We  need it. He's a leader," said Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau. "The thing about 
him is he can beat you a lot of different ways." 

Taj  Gibson provided  22 points  off  the bench and Jimmy  Butler supplied  18 
points, 12 rebounds, four assists and three steals in the victory. 

Greg  Monroe  registered 27  points, seven  rebounds and  five assists for the 
Pistons, who have dropped eight of their last 10 games. 

The Bulls  led 71-70 after  three and quickly  built their margin into double 
figures following an 11-2 spurt to begin the fourth. Augustin netted the first 
seven  points  of the surge,  which was  capped by a  Butler dunk for an 82-72 
cushion. 

Chicago's margin peaked at 15 on the way to the easy win. 

"They're  a  great defensive team,"  said Pistons center Andre Drummond. "They 
out-executed us in the fourth quarter." 

Earlier, Detroit concluded the first quarter on an 8-3 flurry and took a 25-19 
cushion into the second. 

The Bulls, though,  outscored the Pistons 33-22 in the second and headed into 
the break with a 52-47 advantage. 

                                   Game Notes 

Chicago  shot  53.8 percent  (43-of-80) from  the floor  and 82.4 percent (14- 
of-17)  from the  foul line ... Josh  Smith had 15 points, nine rebounds, five 
assists and six blocks for Detroit. 

Sale, Sox Rocked By Padres

Glendale,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  - Nick Hundley's three-run homer in the top 
of  the first inning set the tone, as the San Diego Padres blanked the Chicago 
WhitSox 8-0 on Wednesday. 

Cody  Decker also  went deep  for San  Diego, while  Everth Cabrera  and Rymer 
Liriano  each went  2-for-3 with a run scored. Andrew Cashner struck out three 
in three scoreless frames. 

Chicago  ace  Chris Sale was beat  up in his  second stint this spring, as the 
Padres  scored six  runs on six hits  in just 2 2/3 innings against the lefty. 
The White Sox had just five hits as a team. 

Cubs Crushed By Rockies

Mesa,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Rosell Herrera  hit a two-run single during a 
four-run  run seventh inning that lifted the Colorado Rockies past the Chicago 
Cubs 7-5 in Cactus League play. 

Carlos  Gonzalez  doubled and drove  in a pair of  runs for the Rockies, whose 
starter, Tyler Chatwood, allowed one run on a wild pitch over 2 2/3 innings. 

Cubs  starter Jeff Samardzija  was tagged for three runs on four hits in three 
innings  of work,  while Chicago's offense was highlighted by a pair of sixth- 
inning solo home runs from Javier Baez and George Kottaras. 

Cardinals Clip Red Sox

Jupiter, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Xavier Scruggs belted a two-run homer in the 
St.  Louis Cardinals' 8-6 victory over  the Boston Red Sox in spring training 
action. 

Matt  Adams knocked  in two  runs for  the Cardinals,  who saw  starter Shelby 
Miller strike out five over 2 2/3 frames. 

Xander  Bogaerts smacked a two-run homer and Daniel Nava added a solo shot for 
Boston.  Starter Chris Capuano  allowed two runs on three hits and a walk over 
two innings. 

Bears Parting Ways With Hester; Sign Ratliff; Cut Podlesh

>>Bears Parting Ways With Hester 

(Undated)  --  The Chicago Bears will not have one of the most dangerous return men in league history next season.  Devin Hester told NFL Network yesterday the two sides are parting ways.  Hester is the NFL's all-time leader with 13 punt returns for touchdowns.  He also has five kick returns for touchdowns.  He has played all eight NFL seasons with the Bears. 

>>Bears Agree With Ratliff 

(Undated)  --  The Chicago Bears are bringing back defensive tackle Jeremiah Ratliff.  Both sides agreed to a two-year contract.  The former seventh round pick had 14 and a half tackles and a sack and a half after signing with the team in November.  He is a four-time Pro Bowler and has started 89 of his 109 games played with Dallas and Chicago

>>Bears Cut Podlesh 

(Undated)  --  The Chicago Bears are moving on without punter Adam Podlesh.  The team released him yesterday and will save nearly two-million-dollars in cap space.  Podlesh was due to make 1.45-million.  He was with Chicago for three seasons and averaged 42.3 yards per punt while with the team. 

Rams To Release Cortland Finnegan

(St Louis, MO)  --  The days of Cortland Finnegan playing for the Rams appear to be over.  ESPN reports the veteran cornerback has been informed he will be released by the team next week.  The move will save the Rams four-million-dollars on the 2014 salary cap.  If Finnegan signs for two-million-dollars or more with another team, St. Louis will earn the same amount towards the cap as well, up to a maximum of three-million-dollars.  The 30-year-old signed a five-year, 30-million-dollar contract with the Rams in 2012.  He was due a three-million-dollar roster bonus on March 13th.  The "St. Louis Post-Dispatch" reports Rams coach Jeff Fischer is interested in bringing the veteran back at a discounted rate. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 3-6-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Aaron J. House, 32, of 412 South Shumway Apartment 1, Taylorville, was arrested March 5 on a bond forfeiture for operating an uninsured vehicle.

Taylor R. Kocurek, 21, of 201 Main Street, Kincaid, was arrested March 5 for residential burglary.

 

THE TAYLORVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

On March 3 at 12:55am, Taylorville Police Department officers responded to 2108 Grand Boulevard in reference to a possible fight that had occurred. Upon further investigation, a female subject was arrested on a warrant and James K. Stroh, 31, of Springfield was arrested for domestic battery. Both subjects were transported to Taylorville Police Department and later lodged at Christian County Sheriff's Office.

On March 5 at 9:39pm, a Taylorville Police Department officer made contact with Aaron J. House, 32, of Taylorville who the officer knew to have a valid warrant out of Christian County. Taylorville Police Department verified the warrant was active. House was place under arrest and transported to Christian County Sheriff's Office in lieu of bond.

Fire Department Calls 3-6-14

THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 5
2 EMS, 1 Public Assist

March 6
1 Public Assist, 1 EMS

Illinois State Police Release Details of Crash Involving Nathan Shanks

The Illinois State Police have released details of the 5 car crash that involved Taylorville native and Illinois State Trooper Nathan Shanks. On Tuesday around 3:30pm, all five vehicles were north bound on I57 near mile post 79. A 1992 Chevrolet driven by a 21-year-old male from Sesser stalled and became disabled partially in the left lane of traffic. A 2014 Kenworth semi-tractor driven by a 34 year old male of Benton City, Missouri moved his vehicle to the right lane/right shoulder area. A 2004 Ford F350 driven by a 38 year old male from Kentucky attempted to avoid striking Units 1 and 2 by going between them.

The Ford driver struck the Kenworth’s driver side mirror and proceeded past him to the right shoulder. A 2009 Dodge 3500 Ram driven by a 44 year old male of Jackson, Missouri then attempted to avoid colliding with the ‘92 Chevrolet and 2014 Kenworth by maneuvering his vehicle toward the middle of both lanes. His actions resulted in Shanks having no path available with which to escape the collision. Shanks collided with the rear of the Dodge pushing it into the rear trailer of semi. This collision pushed 2014 Kenworth’s trailers onto the guard rail on the right edge of the roadway. As a result of the impact of the Dodge and Shanks, Shanks’ vehicle caught on fire. He was extricated by motorists and drug to safety.

Shanks was airlifted from the scene and transported to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. Shanks suffered several fractured bones and severe burns but is now reported to be in stable condition at Mercy Hospital. Two other individuals were treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The Illinois State Police is still investigating the incident and charges are pending.

Stallman: Now's the Time to Take Care of Financial Aid

When it comes to college, one of the most important topics is financial aid. Scott Stallman, Executive Director for Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville, Litchfield, and Hillsboro, tells Regional Radio News that now is the time to take care of Financial Aid:

[audio:stallmanfinancialaid030414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

For more information, you can call LLCC at 287-7081.

Heated Contest for 13th Congressional Seat

The 13th Congressional District is one of the most contested seats in Central Illinois with 6 people vying for the spot. Congressman Rodney Davis of Taylorville, who currently holds the seat, tells Regional Radio News why voters should re-elect him:

[audio:davisreelect030514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The primary takes place March 18th

Lakeshore Golf Course Offering Special Pass

The Lakeshore Golf Course is running a limited time promotion in an effort to gain and maintain golfers. Jason Boldig, General Manager at Lakeshore, tells Regional Radio News that they are selling a special pass:

[audio:boldiglakeshorepass030514.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Boldig says they have a set number of passes to be sold and he can't guarantee that the pass will be offered again. For more information or to buy a pass, call Lakeshore at 824-5521.

Blues score four unanswered to top Lightning

St.  Louis,  MO (SportsNetwork.com)  - Alexander  Steen scored the game-winner 
3:47  into the third period to make Ryan Miller's home debut a successful one, 
as  the  St. Louis Blues edged  the Tampa  Bay Lightning,  4-2, on Tuesday at 
Scottrade Center. 

St.  Louis trailed  2-0 after a shaky  first period from Miller, but the Blue
battled  back  with goals  from Patrik  Berglund and T.J.  Oshie in the second 
before  Steen  found the back of  the net early in  the third to give the home 
team their first and only lead of the game. 

Vladimir  Tarasenko  tacked on an empty-netter,  while Miller made 15 saves to 
notch  his second straight victory with St. Louis, which acquired the 33-year- 
old  goaltender, along  with forward  Steve Ott,  from the  Buffalo Sabres  on 
Friday. 

"In  Buffalo,  I really  liked to  form a  relationship with  the fans and the 
people  and I'm  looking forward to doing that here," Miller said after making 
his first start in front of the St. Louis faithful. 

Alex  Killorn and  Tyler Johnson each scored once, while Ben Bishop stopped 25 
shots for the Lightning, who have lost three of their last four games. 

"If  you're  going to  sit here  and take  16 shots  in one  game, 17 shots in 
another game, 21 shots another game and expect to win games, it's not going to 
happen," Tampa Bay head coach Jon Cooper said. "Not a chance." 

With  Tampa  Bay leading 2-0 early  in the second period, Berglund brought the 
Blues within a goal at 3:32 when he picked up a rebound in the slot and glided 
into the left circle before ripping a wrister under the glove of Bishop. 

Oshie evened the score with 2:56 left in the stanza, as he split two defenders 
in  the  low right circle  and made  Martin St. Louis  fall with a deke before 
backhanding the disc past Bishop's blocker to make it 2-2. 

Steen  put St. Louis on top under four minutes into the third when he accepted 
a  behind-the-net  feed from David Backes  in the slot before switching to his 
backhand and roofing the disc over Bishop's glove for a 3-2 lead at 3:47. 

Steen  was sent off for goaltender interference at 7:08, but Miller stood tall 
between the pipes to keep Tampa Bay from finding the equalizer. 

Tarasenko's empty-netter at 19:21 accounted for the final margin. 

The  Lightning struck  first just  over seven  minutes in  when Teddy  Purcell 
picked  off a pass deep in the St. Louis end and quickly centered the disc for 
Killorn, who snuck a shot past Miller for a 1-0 lead at 7:08. 

Johnson  potted a  power-play goal with 5:11  left in the first period to push 
Tampa Bay's lead to 2-0. 

                                   Game Notes 

Miller,  who made  23 saves  in the Blues' 4-2  win over  Phoenix on  Sunday, 
improved  to 20-9-0 in  his career against Tampa Bay ... The Lightning went 1- 
for-4  on  the power play  while St.  Louis failed on  both of its chances ... 
Jaden Schwartz and Backes each had two assists for St. Louis. 

White Sox Fall To Tribe

Goodyear,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com)  - Joe  Wendle's two-out  RBI single  in the 
bottom  of the ninth  inning Tuesday lifted the Cleveland Indians to a 5-4 win 
over the Chicago White Sox for their fifth straight Cactus League victory. 

The White Sox had  tied the  game on Alex  Liddi's Solo  homer in the eighth 
inning.  Conor  Gillaspie also hit  a solo homer  for Chicago and starter Erik 
Johnson  struck out two in three innings, allowing one run on three hits and a 
walk. 

Zach  McAllister threw two scoreless innings for the Indians, allowing one hit 
and a walk with one strikeout. 

Avs use 3rd-period burst to down Blackhawks

Chicago, IL (SportsNetwork.com) - Tyson Barrie, Ryan O'Reilly and Paul Stastny 
scored  third-period  goals to  support a 36-save  effort from Semyon Varlamov 
that  carried  the Colorado  Avalanche  to  a  4-2  victory over  the  Chicago 
Blackhawks at United Center. 

Maxime  Talbot  also  tallied  and  Erik  Johnson  notched  three  assists  in 
Colorado's  third straight  win.  Barrie and  O'Reilly  also recorded  assists 
during the Avalanche's final-period outburst. 

Varlamov outplayed counterpart Corey Crawford, who stopped just 17-of-20 shots 
for the Blackhawks. 

Ben  Smith and Jonathan Toews each recorded goals in the loss, Chicago's third 
in four games. 

"For  the most part  we did the right things tonight," Chicago head coach Joel 
Quenneville said. "We should have taken advantage of it." 

The  teams were  knotted at  2-2 when  an interference  penalty to Blackhawk
defenseman  Johnny Oduya  with  under  nine minutes  left  helped  set up  the 
eventual  game-winning score.  On the ensuing power play, Johnson fed the puck 
into  the left  circle for Barrie's one-timer that rocketed past Crawford with 
7:10 to play. 

"I  was yelling for (the puck) and (Johnson) put it right in my wheelhouse and 
I  was  just able to kind  of get everything on  it and lucky to beat Crawford 
there," Barrie said of his game-winning goal. 

Varlamov  made the lead hold up with several key saves down the stretch before 
Stastny  sealed the  win by tapping in  an empty-netter with 33 seconds on the 
clock. 

After  mustering only  three  shots  during a  scoreless  opening period,  the 
Avalanche  beat  Crawford on  their second  chance of the  second to break the 
stalemate.  Johnson wound  up  and sent  a long  drive  that was  successfully 
redirected by Talbot just 2:49 into the middle session 

Chicago  drew  even prior to the  second intermission on Smith's eighth of the 
season,  a  wrister past a screened  Varlamov that came with 3:08 remaining in 
the frame. 

O'Reilly  sent  Colorado back  in front  with only 1:23  elapsed in the third, 
taking  in a  pass from Matt Duchene  in the neutral zone and racing hard down 
the right wing before firing the puck under Crawford's pads just 1:23 into the 
middle session. 

The Blackhawks got back the equalizer just under six minutes later while on a 
power  play, with Toews depositing Patrick Sharp's well-placed feed across the 
crease into an open right side. 

                                   Game Notes 

Colorado  rookie  Nathan MacKinnon  extended his  point streak  to 12 games by 
setting  up Stastny's late goal ... Varlamov improved to 3-0-0 with a 1.47 GAA 
in  three starts against the Blackhawks this season ... The Avs are now 31-1-3 
when  scoring  first this season ...  Three of Barrie's nine goals this season 
have  come against  Chicago ...  Prior to  the game,  the Blackhawks  acquired 
defenseman  David  Rundblad and minor  league blueliner Mathieu Brisebois from 
Phoenix in exchange for a 2014 second-round pick. 

Cubs Down A's Behind Ruggiano

Mesa,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Mike  Olt's two-out,  two-run home run in the 
bottom  of the  eighth inning  proved  to be  the difference  Tuesday, as  the 
Chicago Cubs edged the Oakland Athletics, 6-4, in spring training action. 

Olt  entered the game  as a pinch-hitter in the eighth and stroked a 1-0 pitch 
over  the left-field wall. Albert Almora, who smacked an RBI single earlier in 
the frame to break a 3-3 tie, also scored on Olt's first homer of the spring. 

Justin  Ruggiano  clubbed a  two-run shot  and finished  with three RBI, while 
Anthony  Rizzo added  two hits and scored  twice for the Cubs, who saw starter 
Kyle Hendricks allow one run on one hit and three walks over two innings. 

Brandon Moss and Josh Reddick each registered two hits and an RBI for the A's. 
Oakland starter Tommy Milone gave up three runs on five hits in three frames. 

Michigan clinches Big Ten crown with rout of Illinois

Champaign, IL (SportsNetwork.com) - Nik Stauskas netted 24 points as the 12th- 
ranked  Michigan Wolverines  clinched  their first  outright  Big Ten  regular 
season  title  since 1985-86  with a  dominant 84-53  triumph over Illinois at 
State Farm Center. 

"We  came  with that mindset,  this was our championship  and we wanted to win 
it," Stauskas said. 

Stauskas  hit a  career-best seven  3-pointers on  nine attempts  for Michigan 
(22-7,  14-3  Big Ten),  which shot  16-of-23 from  distance as  a team in its 
fourth  straight win. The 16 made triples matched a school record, set earlier 
this year in a win over Houston Baptist. 

Caris LeVert and Glenn Robinson III added 15 and 13 points, respectively, with 
Derrick  Walton  Jr. contributing nine  points, seven rebounds and a game-high 
five assists. 

Heading  into the  contest, Illinois  (17-13, 6-11)  had  held four  straight 
opponents under 50 points. The Wolverines had 52 points at halftime. 

"Their kids made shots," Illinois head coach John Groce said of Michigan. 

Rayvonte  Rice had 16 points to pace the Fighting Illini, who saw their three- 
game winning streak come to a blinding halt. 

Michigan quieted the rowdy Senior Night crowd right off the bat, with all five 
starters  scoring  before the first media  timeout. Kendrick Nunn had seven by 
himself,  however, including a 3-pointer that hit every part of the rim before 
falling through, to keep Illinois within striking distance. 

But  then,  the Wolverines found the  range. Zak Irvin and Spike Albrecht came 
off  the bench and  provided nine quick points via the 3-ball, with the former 
hitting a pair of triples during a 19-4 run. 

Michigan's  lead  grew to 22 late  in the first  half after a pair of Robinson 
free  throws, but Jon Ekey's layup sparked six straight points for the Illini. 
Robinson  ended the spurt with a trey from the top of the key, his first since 
Feb.  11, and Stauskas beat the buzzer with an NBA-range triple to restore the 
22-point margin. 

Michigan  shot 11-of-14  from  the arc  and 67.9  percent  overall during  the 
opening 20 minutes. 

Rice's  three-point  play highlighted  a 9-1 Illini  surge that spanned nearly 
five  minutes during  the early  portion of  the second  half, but  LeVert and 
Stauskas hit back-to-back 3s to remove all hopes of a comeback. 

The  spread  swelled to 76-43 at  5:44, which was Illinois' largest deficit of 
the season. 

                                   Game Notes 

Michigan  has  now won six  straight against  the Fighting Illini ... Michigan 
closes  out  the regular season with  a home test against Indiana ... Michigan 
center Jon Horford grabbed 10 rebounds ... Nunn scored 14 for Illinois. 

Area Arrests/Crashes/Incidents 03-05-14

THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ARRESTS:

Robert E. Lee, 21, of 230 East Johnson Avenue, Coalton, was arrested March 5 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear.

John D. Lill, 38, of 1219 North Elm Street, Taylorville, was arrested March 4 on a bond forfeiture for failure to appear.

Fire Department Calls 03-05-14

THE TAYLROVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:

March 3
3 EMS, 2 Public Assists

March 4
1 EMS

March 5
1 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm

CRIME OF THE WEEK FOR MARCH 3, 2014

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a burglary  and criminal damage that occurred in Taylorville.

Sometime during the overnight hours of Saturday February 22, 2014, person or persons unknown made entry into a residence located at 506 North Cottage Street in Taylorville.   While inside, the unknown subject or subjects damaged several items, damaged furniture, and broke a 32" TV.  A back door was damaged to make entry.   The total dollar amount of damage 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. 

Taylorville Native/State Trooper Involved in 5-car Accident

Taylorville native and Illinois State Trooper Nathan Shanks was involved in a 5-car accident Tuesday afternoon. Around 3:30pm, several vehicles collided near mile-marker 79 on Interstate 57. Initial reports say that Shanks’ vehicle caught on fire which caused ammunition round to fire off from inside the vehicle. Shanks was airlifted from the scene and transported to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. Shanks suffered several fractured bones and severe burns but is now reported to be in stable condition at Mercy Hospital. Two other individuals were treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The Illinois State Police is investigating the incident and there is no clear cause of the crash at the moment.

Wiseman Available as Speaker

Groups and organizations looking for a program speaker should consider inviting Vanessa Wiseman of the American Diabetes Association.  Wiseman says a lot of people are unaware that they may have a problem with diabetes:

Miller Media Group Names First-Ever Director Of Digital Media And Promotions

   width=

          (Taylorville)--The Miller Media Group of radio stations in Taylorville and Clinton have named their first-ever Director of Digital Media and Promotions.

           Jolene Hall of Pana is a marketing major at Lake Land College in Mattoon, and joins the Miller Media Group after a long career in the hospitality and restaurant industry.

           Hall will be responsible for creating and implementing digital media campaigns for the group's radio advertisers.  She'll also be responsible for helping to promote the 7 stations owned by the Miller Media Group, plus new stations the company is acquiring and building, via digital media.

           Miller Media President Randal J. Miller said he is thrilled to add Jolene to the company, to enhance the services it provides present and new advertisers.

Nets Turn Away Bulls

Brooklyn,  NY (SportsNetwork.com)  - Deron Williams had 20 points, Joe Johnson 
scored 19 and the Brooklyn Nets rolled to a 96-80 win over the red-hot Chicago 
Bulls on Monday. 

Paul  Pierce  and Shaun  Livingston added  14 points apiece  for the Nets, who 
returned from a 4-3 road trip to win their third straight game. 

The  Nets hadn't played  at home in 19 days, so Monday's game was the Barclays 
Center  debut  of Jason Collins, who  became the NBA's first active openly gay 
player in a Feb. 23 game in Los Angeles. 

Collins  got a standing  ovation when he checked into the game with 2:41 left. 
His  Brooklyn debut  came amid reports Collins, 35, would sign a second 10-day 
contract with the team. 

Brooklyn  was  without Kevin Garnett  for the  second straight game because of 
back spasms but still snapped a four-game losing streak to Chicago. 

D.J.  Augustin had 16  points off the bench and Jimmy Butler scored 13 to lead 
the Bulls,  who had a  four-game winning streak  snapped, losing for just the 
second time in their last 11. 

"We're  disappointed...but you  got to bounce back," said Joakim Noah, who was 
limited to 10 points and six rebounds. 

Chicago's  loss  means neither team has  swept the season series since the New 
Jersey  Nets  won all four games  in 2004-05. The Bulls had won the first two 
meetings this season. 

The  Nets led by as many as 15 in the first half. Pierce's 3 to open the third 
quarter  sparked a 7-0 run that stretched their eight-point halftime lead back 
to 15. 

Brooklyn's  lead  reached 17 going  into the fourth  quarter and the Bulls got 
only  as close  as nine after an Augustin  3 from the left corner capped a 7-0 
run. 

"Defensively, I thought we were at our best," Williams said. 

The Nets also scored the first seven points of the game and opened with a 14-3 
run  over  the first five-plus  minutes. Livingston  had six points during the 
surge and Brooklyn's lead ballooned to 15 points later on. 

The  Nets led 27-18  going into the second quarter. Chicago cut its deficit to 
three  points late  in the half but Johnson scored seven straight points after 
that and Brooklyn took a 50-42 lead into the break. 

                                   Game Notes 

Brooklyn  has won five in a row at home and is 12-2 in its last 14 at Barclays 
Center  ... The Nets remain at home to play Memphis on Wednesday ... The Bull
play on the road at Detroit on Wednesday. 

White Sox Down Royals

Glendale,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Andy Wilkins  hit a three-run home run as 
the Chicago Solid navy;background-color:yellow"> White Sox took a 9-7 victory over the Kansas City Royals in Cactus 
League play on Monday. 

Conor  Gillaspie and  Hector Gimenez finished with  a pair of RBI each for the 
White  Sox.  Jose Quintana gave  up two  runs on two  hits in three innings of 
work. 

Jorge  Bonifacio  hit a  two-run home run  and drove in  three runs and Jarrod 
Dyson  drove  in a pair  of runs for the  Royals. Jeremy Guthrie allowed three 
runs on four hits in two innings of starting work. 

Cubs Take Down Brewers; Castro to Miss a Week

Maryvale,  AZ  (SportsNetwork.com) - Walter Ibarra  drove in a pair of runs as 
the  Chicago Cubs  took a 4-2 win  over the Milwaukee Brewers in Cactus League 
action. 

Javier  Baez  was 2-for-3  with a  solo homer  and Luis  Valbuena added an RBI 
double for the Cubs. 

Carlos Gomez and Juan Francisco drove in one run apiece for the Brewers. 

 

(Mesa, AZ)  --  Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro will be out for the next seven to ten days recovering from a mild hamstring strain.  Manager Rick Renteria says second baseman Darwin Barney could see time at short in Castro's absence.  Castro was injured Sunday attempting a slide into second base

Peralta Homers Twice but Cards Fall to Tigers

Lakeland, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Nick Castellanos was 2-for-3 with a two-run 
homer  to help  lead the  Detroit Tigers  to  an 8-5  win over  the St.  Louis 
Cardinals in Grapefruit League action on Monday. 

Austin  Jackson  went 2-for-3 with a  double and three RBI and Victor Martinez 
had  two  hits and an  RBI for  the Tigers. Drew  Smyly earned the win despite 
giving up a pair of homers in just three innings of work. 

Jhonny  Peralta went 2-for-2 with a pair of homers against his former club and 
James Ramsey drove in a pair for the Cardinals. 

Illinois Hosts Michigan Tonight

(Champaign, IL)  --  Illinois plays host to 12th-ranked Michigan tonight at the State Farm Center in Champaign.  The Fighting Illini upset Michigan State on the road Saturday and are now 17-and-12 with a 6-and-10 Big Ten mark.  The Wolverines sit atop the conference.  Tip is set for 6:00. Pre-game begins at 5:30pm on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM.

Taylorville Kiwanis Hold Business Meeting, Induct New Member, Hear About Write-In Voting

 width=

Pictured left to right: Kiwanis president Chris Weittenhiller, new Kiwanis member Dr. Greg Haarman, Kiwanian Dr. Ron Mizer, and Kiwanis Membership Chairman Dean Ray


The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held their monthly business meeting, inducted a new member, and heard one of the Republican write-in candidates for Christian County Treasurer, all at their Tuesday luncheon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

Kiwanis committee chairs reported on local club activities for children and youth. Kiwanis treasurer Dan Sneed reported that the recent Pancake and Sausage Day fund-raiser netted the club some 38-hundred 50-dollars, a new record. Membership chair Dean Ray reported that plans are on-going for a spring membership drive, and Priority One chairperson Harriett Morrissey reported that a car seat inspection day is being planned for April.

Key Club chairperson Jodi Mink reported that the Kiwanis Club was donating 750-dollars to the High School Kiwanis Key Club for their International dues, and Kiwanis Park chair Jerry Woodard reported that aging cargo netting at the playground will be replaced. Public Relations chair Randy Miller reported that work is in progress to update the club’s web site, taylorvillekiwanis-dot-com, on a weekly basis to include reports on weekly meetings that are now provided to local media. A Facebook page for the club is also in the works.

A new dentist in Taylorville, Doctor Gregg Haarman, who purchased long-time Doctor Ron Mizer’s practice earlier this year, was inducted as the newest member of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club.

And, one of the 3 write-in candidates for the Republican nomination for Christian County Treasurer, Betty Asmussen, spoke to the club about how to cast a write-in ballot in the March 18 primary. Both Republican and Democratic balloting for Christian County Treasurer will require write-in voting.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

Groovy 93.5, NEW Country 96.3 to Experience Service Outage Thursday

The Miller Media Group has scheduled a service outage on 2 of its signals on Thursday, to do tower work.

Groovy 93-point-5 and NEW Country 96-point-3 will each experience a service outage on Thursday. Both stations’ antennas will be either repaired or replaced, causing the service outage on both stations.

The work is weather permitting. The Miller Media Group thanks its listeners to Groovy 93-point-5 and NEW Country 96-point-3 for their understanding as these antenna repairs are made.

Novota: Top Items in Home Decorating

If you are looking to remodel your home and are wondering what items are moving right now, the Taylorville Home Source can help you out. Vicki Novota with Taylorville Home Source tells Regional Radio News what some of their new and top items are right now:

[audio:novotatopitems030314.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Taylorville Home Source is located in the Marsango Plaza on Spresser Street. 

Hornbuckle: Starting a Small Business Event a Success

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce recently held a Starting a Small Business seminar. CEO of the Chamber Patty Hornbuckle tells Regional Radio News the event was a success:

[audio:hornbucklesbevent030314.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If you have any questions, you can contact the Chamber at 824-4919.

Truck Driver Training Program at LLCC Receives Grant

The Truck Driver Training Program at Lincoln Land Community College has recently received a grant worth $250,000. Director of the program Bob Howard tells Regional Radio News what the grant money has allowed them to do in their program:

[audio:howardtruckgrant030314.mp3]comment here[/audio]

For more information, you can contact Bob Howard at 786-2565.

Illinois upends #18 Michigan State

East Lansing, MI (SportsNetwork.com) - Tracy Abrams tallied 12 points and five 
steals  as Illinois  went into Breslin Center and shocked 18th-ranked Michigan 
State, 53-46, in Saturday's Big Ten clash. 

Rayvonte  Rice and  Malcolm  Hill  scored 10  points  apiece,  with Rice  also 
finishing  with  five steals as  Illinois (17-12, 6-10  Big Ten) won its third 
straight tilt. 

"I'm  really proud  of our guys," said Illinois head coach John Groce. "That's 
the  fourth game in  a row that we've held an opponent under 50 points. That's 
hard to do in this league with the great coaches and great teams." 

The  loss spoiled  Gary  Harris' 19-point  effort and  the  return of  forward 
Branden  Dawson, who  missed the  last nine  games with  a broken  right hand. 
Dawson came off the bench and scored six points with six rebounds. 

"This  team  has been through a  lot, but I  didn't see this coming," said MSU 
head  coach Tom Izzo. "I'm disappointed in our effort, not disappointed in our 
performance as far as our skills go." 

Michigan  State (22-7, 11-5) has now lost consecutive games for the first time 
this season. 

The  visiting Illini  landed the first blow,  jumping out to a 19-7 lead after 
Rice's steal and jam sparked a 9-0 run. 

Illinois went scoreless for more than five minutes later in the half, allowing 
the  Spartans to  claw their way back. Denzel Valentine and Harris hit triples 
to  key an 11-2 surge, which Abrams finally ended with his 3-ball at 3:44. MSU 
scored  the final  six points of the  half to tie it at 28-apiece heading into 
the locker rooms. 

A  3-pointer by  Rice 4:34  into the  second half  capped a  12-4 run  for the 
Illini.  Harris' trey  near the midpoint cut  the score to 42-39, but Hill's 3 
kept the Spartans at arm's length. 

Jon  Ekey's straightaway  3 made it 50-43  with 3:43 to play, and the Spartans 
mustered  just  a Harris triple down  the stretch, missing two field goals and 
three free throws in the last minute and a half. 

                                   Game Notes 

Illinois scored 25 points off of 16 MSU turnovers ... Michigan State outscored 
the Illini 24-20  in the  paint  ... Illinois  will  look to  win its  fourth 
straight when it hosts Big Ten-leading Michigan on Tuesday. 

White Sox Come Back, Top Rangers



(Surprise, AZ)  --  The White Sox rallied for five runs in the ninth to capture a 9-7 win over the Rangers in Surprise.  Felipe Paulino was tagged for four runs in one-and-two-thirds innings in the start, allowing eight hits along the way.  The Sox host the Royals today in Glendale. 

Cubs Fall To Royals; Castro Leaves Game With Hamstring Strain

(Mesa, AZ)  --  Javier Baez and Justin Ruggiano each had two hits but the Cubs suffered a 5-3 loss to the Royals yesterday in Mesa.  Edwin Jackson surrendered a run on three hits in two innings to start the game.  The Cubs face the Brewers today in Maryvale. 

Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro left yesterday's game after the first inning with a mild hamstring strain.  He was hurt sliding into second base on a steal attempt.  Castro had treatment but says he should be alright after a few days off. 

Cardinals Crush Mets

(Jupiter, FL)  --  Shane Robinson drove in three runs to help the Cardinals crush the Mets 7-1 in Jupiter.  Matt Holliday and Pete Kozma each had two RBI for St. Louis, which moved to 1-and-2 in the spring.  Starter Michael Wacha [[ WAH-kuh ]] tossed an inning-and-two-thirds of shutout ball for the win.  The Cards clash with the Tigers in Lakeland today. 

Blues rally past Coyotes

Glendale,  AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Kevin Shattenkirk scored the go-ahead goal 
in  a four-goal third  period as the St. Louis Blues rallied for a win in Ryan 
Miller's debut, beating the Phoenix Coyotes 4-2 on Sunday. 

Miller,  acquired  in a blockbuster  trade Friday, let up  a goal in the first 
three minutes but settled in to make 23 saves for St. Louis. 

"I  was pretty anxious and nervous all day," Miller said. "It's a new group of 
guys  and you want to show them what you've got and let them know you're there 
for them." 

Patrik  Berglund had  two goals and Magnus Paajarvi also scored for the Blues, 
who got their first post-Olympics win (1-2-0) after losing the first two games 
1-0. 

Paul  Bissonnette and  Jeff Halpern scored for the Coyotes, who have lost four 
in  a  row, including three  since the break (0-2-1).  Mike Smith gave up four 
goals on 30 shots. 

"We  were up 2-0 and we didn't find a way to get that third one," said Coyotes 
captain Shane Doan. 

Berglund  got the Blues  on the board 3:18 into the third period on a goal set 
up by Jaden Schwartz's backhand pass from the other side of the slot. 

Paajarvi  tied  it 4:21 later  one a  shot from the  right circle that made it 
through  a  screen and Shattenkirk  put St. Louis  ahead on a power-play wrist 
shot  from the  left side that also  made it through bodies in front with 7:14 
left. 

Berglund sealed the win with 1:39 remaining. 

The Blues  got Miller and  forward Steve Ott  in a five-player trade, sending 
goaltender  Jaroslav Halak, forward Chris Stewart and prospect William Carrier 
and two draft picks to the Buffalo Sabres. 

Miller,  the 2010  Vezina winner, and Ott are both unrestricted free agents at 
the  end  of the  season but  the move bolstered  the Blues'  chance at a deep 
playoff run. 

Miller,  33, collected  284 wins in 540  games for the Sabres since making his 
NHL debut in 2003. 

He  let one by just 2:56 into the game. To be fair, the puck was deflected off 
one  of his new teammates, defenseman Barret Jackman, who was prone on the ice 
when his skate got in the way of Bissonnette's shot. 

Miller didn't get much help on Phoenix's second goal either. Halpern was alone 
in  front of the crease to deflect Keith Yandle's pass from the left boards at 
7:09 of the second period. 

                                   Game Notes 

Halpern  scored his 150th  career goal ... The Blues play Tampa Bay on Tuesday 
in  their only  home game in the  first seven post-Olympic break games ... The 
Coyotes  host  Vancouver on  Tuesday ...  St. Louis  snapped a three-game road 
losing streak ... Ott played 14 minutes. 

Noah's triple-double helps Bulls thump Knicks

Chicago,  IL (SportsNetwork.com) - Joakim Noah logged a triple-double and D.J. 
Augustin  scored  23 points as  the Chicago Bulls  cruised to a 109-90 victory 
over the New York Knicks in a matchup of teams headed in opposite directions. 

Noah  dished  out a career-best 14  assists to go  along with 13 points and 12 
rebounds  in  the Bulls'  ninth win  in 10  games. 

"What  can  you say? He  is playing MVP  basketball," Bulls forward Taj Gibson 
remarked. "He is doing everything in all facets of the game." 

Jimmy  Butler  chipped in  19 points and  Carlos Boozer finished  with 14 in a 
contest Chicago led the entire way. 

The  fading  Knicks dropped their sixth  in a row despite Carmelo Anthony's 21 
points and a 22-rebound effort from Tyson Chandler. 

Chicago began the game on fire, building a 16-1 lead just over four minutes in 
on  the  strength of a defense  that caused the  Knicks to go 0-for-4 from the 
field  and turn the ball over three times. The margin would swell to 21 points 
by  period's  end  after Butler's  layup  and  free  throw  gave the Bulls  a 
commanding 37-16 advantage. 

"You  can't play the game like a light switch, or you get buried," said Knicks 
guard  J.R.  Smith of the slow  start. "We've got  to come out with it already 
on." 

New  York did  manage to  cut into  the deficit  in the  second quarter,  with 
Amar'e Stoudemire scoring six points during an 8-0 run that brought the Knicks 
within  51-42 with  3  1/2 minutes  left before  the  break. The  differential 
remained  at nine until  Butler capped off a 17-point half by sinking a jumper 
in the closing seconds, putting Chicago up 59-48 at intermission. 

The  Knicks  failed to  make any  headway in the  third quarter, however. Kirk 
Hinrich  and  Mike Dunleavy  each buried  3-pointers during  an 8-2 spurt that 
extended  the Bulls' lead  to 74-56 just  past the midway  mark of the frame, 
though  New York ended the stanza on a 7-2 push and trailed 80-68 entering the 
fourth following Tim Hardaway Jr.'s successful floater at the buzzer. 

New  York got  no closer, though, as  Augustin dropped in six points to lead a 
9-2 run to start the final period and Chicago stretched the lead to as many as 
24 points during the game's latter stages. 

                                   Game Notes 

Guard  Jimmer  Fredette, signed  by the Bulls earlier in  the day, played the 
final  three minutes and  notched two points and a pair of rebounds ... Noah's 
triple-double  was the  fifth of  his career  and second  this season,  having 
registered  19  points, 16 rebounds and  11 assists against Atlanta on Feb. 11 
...  Iman Shumpert returned to action for New York after missing five straight 
games  with a  sprained knee, but managed  just three points in 20 minutes ... 
The  Knicks lost for  the sixth straight time at the United Center, where they 
haven't  won since  Nov. 4, 2010 ...  The game was part of the league's "Noche 
NBA" program designed to celebrate Latino heritage, with Chicago wearing black 
jerseys  that  displayed "Los Bulls" and  New York donning "Nueva York" on its 
uniforms. 

Taylorville City Council Approves Road Use Agreement with Enbridge Pipelines

The Taylorville City Council was presented with a resolution at their meeting Monday night in regards to a road use agreement with Enbridge Pipelines LLC. Alderman Earl Walters told the Council he had done some research on the topic:

[audio:waltersresearch030414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Council unanimously approved the agreement.

 

The Taylorville City Council was presented with a revised application for a special events permit. City Attorney Rocci Romano explains how the new application works:

[audio:romanoapp030414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The application will be voted on at the next Ordinance Committee meeting.

 

The Taylorville City Council heard an update on the Ahlstrom noise situation at their meeting Monday night. Mayor Greg Brotherton informed the Council with the latest update:

[audio:mayorahlstrom030414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Alderman Larry Budd then provided the Council with more details:

[audio:buddahlstrom030414.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Ahlstrom has not given a timetable for when the problem will be completely fixed.

 

The Taylorville City Council approved the Plan Commission recommendation in regards to the Upchurch Business Center Location Map and Minor Subdivision located at 1100 and 1102 North Cheney Street. The Council also approved the transfer of $50,000 from the General Fund to the Water Fund for the repayment of the Water Fund Loan. The Council will owe $370,000 on the Water Fund Loan after the transfer is complete.

The meeting adjourned at 8:04pm.

Asmussen Would Bring 20 Years Experience to Christian County Treasurer Office

 width=300 height=429 /></p>						</div>

						<!-- BUTTON OPTIONS-->
											</div>
				</div>
			</article>
			
		    			
			
			
						<article class=

Congress Davis Pushing Nutrition Fairness Bill

Congressman Rodney Davis of Taylorville is continuing to push his recently introduced legislation that would require the White House and USDA to follow the same health eating standards that they want kids to follow. Davis explains what led him to bring about this proposal:

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

Davis says a state dinner hosted by the White House has an estimated average of 2,500 caloris per person.

Taylorville Memorial Urges Christian County Residents to be Screened for Colorectal Cancer in March

In an effort to reduce Christian County’s colon-cancer rate below the statewide average, healthcare professionals at Taylorville Memorial Hospital are urging residents to be screened for colon cancer in March.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. The lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is one in 20. The risk is slightly higher in men than in women.

Christian County had 18.4 colon cancer deaths per 100,000 people from 2006 to 2010, the most recent range of statistics available from the National Cancer Institute. That’s slightly above the statewide rate of 18.1 deaths per 100,000.

The rate for men in Christian County is 18.5 deaths per 100,000 and for women is 18.6 per 100,000.

That’s why Taylorville Memorial Hospital wants to encourage people who are 50 years old or older to be screened for colon cancer in March, which is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

If everyone who was 50 years old or older had regular screening tests, at least 60 percent of deaths from colorectal cancer could be avoided, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Colorectal cancer usually starts from polyps in the colon or rectum. A polyp is a growth that shouldn’t be there. Over time, some polyps can turn into cancer.

Screening tests, such as a colonoscopy, can find polyps and remove them before they turn to cancer. During a colonoscopy, the physician uses a long, thin, flexible, lighted tube to check for polyps or cancer inside the rectum and the entire colon.

The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 136,000 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year, and more than 50,000 will die.

For more information, call (217) 824-1370.

Lake Shelbyville Fish Habitat Improvement Day Postponed

The Fish Habitat Improvement Day scheduled for Saturday, March 8, 2014, has been postponed due to unseasonably thick ice still covering most of Lake Shelbyville.  It has been rescheduled for Saturday, March 22.  Volunteer registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Lithia Springs Boat Ramp Parking Lot and the work will begin at 9:00 a.m.  Following the event, a free lunch is available for work day volunteers at the Lake Shelbyville Visitor Center.

Once again, volunteers are welcome to bring pontoon boats as well as jon boats.  The artificial fish attractors are approximately 5 feet in diameter and are more easily transported on a pontoon boat. If there is a shortage of boats, it will slow down placement of the structures. Anyone interested in volunteering their boat or for more information contact Park Ranger Tyler Goble at (217) 774-3951, ext. 7019.

Gibson powers Bulls past Mavericks

Dallas,  TX (SportsNetwork.com)  - Taj Gibson netted 20 points and pulled down 
15  rebounds, as  the Chicago Bulls used  a fourth-quarter  surge to  claim a 
100-91  triumph over  the  Dallas  Mavericks on  Friday  at American  Airlines 
Center. 

The Bulls  trailed 85-84  with 5:07 to  play, but Mike  Dunleavy drained a 3- 
pointer  to spark a  10-0 Chicago run that gave the visitors a nine-point edge 
with just 90 seconds remaining. 

Jimmy  Butler  registered 19 points  and seven  boards, while Kirk Hinrich and 
Dunleavy  added  17 and 16  points, respectively, for  the Bulls, who have won 
three straight and eight of their last nine games. 

"I thought we battled back and showed more discipline as the game went along," 
Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau said. "We had a lot of guys step up." 

Monta  Ellis  led Dallas with 20  points, while Dirk Nowitzki and Vince Carter 
contributed  15 points  apiece in  the setback,  which snapped  the Mavericks' 
four-game win streak. 

Chicago  didn't  take its first  lead of the contest  until late in the third, 
when  Carlos Boozer capped  a 7-0 sprint with a reverse layup to make it 73-72 
in favor of the Bulls with 2:48 left in the frame. 

Dallas scored the final four points of the third to regain the lead and used a 
7-0  spurt midway  through the fourth to  take an 85-84 lead on Ellis' running 
dunk with just over five minutes left. 

However,  the  Mavs managed  just two  more field  goals the  rest of the way, 
allowing the Bulls to run away with the victory down the stretch. 

"We  were in  front most of the first  half and we let them climb back into it 
with grit, and guts, and rebounding," Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle said. 
"Down the stretch we had some good opportunities and made some mistakes, too." 

Early  on, Dallas  drained five 3-pointers and shot nearly 55 percent from the 
floor in the first quarter to build a 32-20 lead after 12 minutes. 

The  Mavs maintained a comfortable cushion for much of the second stanza until 
Hinrich  and Butler  buried consecutive treys to cap a 10-0 surge that brought 
the Bulls within two with 53.9 seconds left in the half. 

Ellis split two free throws to send Dallas into the break with a 54-51 edge. 

                                   Game Notes 

Chicago closed out February 9-4, while Dallas went 9-3 in the month ... Dallas 
scored  18 fastbreak  points, compared to seven for Chicago ... Dallas tallied 
21  points  off 21 Chicago turnovers  ... Chicago shot 50.7 percent (36-of-71) 
from the floor overall. 

Central A&M Lady Raiders take 4th Place in State Basketball Tournament Friday (3.1.14).

In the IHSA Class 1-A Girls Basketball Tournament at ISU's Redbird Arena, #2-rated Central A&M lost in their bid to take 3rd Place against #3-rated Eastland with the Lady Cougars on top 55-50, as heard Friday on Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR. The Lady Raiders dropped to 27 and 7 for the season on the 2-game losing streak taking the 4th place spot in the tournament. It was the first state appearance for the Lady Cougars who finished third in their very first state appearance, improving their record to 29 and 6. NOTE: There will be a reception to welcome the Lady Raiders back home at Central A&M High School at 5pm Saturday (3/1/14).

Winter Weather Advisory Expires; Winter Storm Warning Remains In Effect

 width=

UPDATED 6:07pm 3/2/14

The National Weather Service allowed the Winter Weather Advisory for many of the Regional Radio counties, to expire at 6 o'clock Sunday night. The snow in the advisory area ended late Sunday afternoon.

A Winter Storm Warning remains, though, for Shelby, Moultrie, and Effingham counties and those eastward, until 6am Monday. An additional 2 to 3 inches of snow is likely be tomorrow morning. Winds will be out of the north 15 to 20 miles an hour, creating hazardous travel in the warning area.

While snow totals in many areas were much less than predicted, wind chills across Central Illinois are expected to be between 10 and 15 below zero Sunday night into Monday morning.

Archives:

2024-03 | 2024-02 | 2024-01 | 2023-12 | 2023-11 | 2023-10 | 2023-09 | 2023-08 | 2023-07 | 2023-06 | 2023-05 | 2023-04 | 2023-03 | 2023-02 | 2023-01 | 2022-12 | 2022-11 | 2022-10 | 2022-09 | 2022-08 | 2022-07 | 2022-06 | 2022-05 | 2022-04 | 2022-03 | 2022-02 | 2022-01 | 2021-12 | 2021-11 | 2021-10 | 2021-09 | 2021-08 | 2021-07 | 2021-06 | 2021-05 | 2021-04 | 2021-03 | 2021-02 | 2021-01 | 2020-12 | 2020-11 | 2020-10 | 2020-09 | 2020-08 | 2020-07 | 2020-06 | 2020-05 | 2020-04 | 2020-03 | 2020-02 | 2020-01 | 2019-12 | 2019-11 | 2019-10 | 2019-09 | 2019-08 | 2019-07 | 2019-06 | 2019-05 | 2019-04 | 2019-03 | 2019-02 | 2019-01 | 2018-12 | 2018-11 | 2018-10 | 2018-09 | 2018-08 | 2018-07 | 2018-06 | 2018-05 | 2018-04 | 2018-03 | 2018-02 | 2018-01 | 2017-12 | 2017-11 | 2017-10 | 2017-09 | 2017-08 | 2017-07 | 2017-06 | 2017-05 | 2017-04 | 2017-03 | 2017-02 | 2017-01 | 2016-12 | 2016-11 | 2016-10 | 2016-09 | 2016-08 | 2016-07 | 2016-06 | 2016-05 | 2016-04 | 2016-03 | 2016-02 | 2016-01 | 2015-03 | 2015-02 | 2015-01 | 2014-12 | 2014-11 | 2014-10 | 2014-09 | 2014-08 | 2014-07 | 2014-06 | 2014-05 | 2014-04 | 2014-03 | 2014-02 | 2014-01 | 2013-12 | 2013-11 | 2013-10 | 2013-09 | 2013-08 | 2013-07 | 2013-06 | 2013-05 | 2013-04 | 2013-03 | 2013-02 | 2013-01 | 2012-12 | 2012-11 | 2012-10 | 2012-09 | 2012-08 | 2012-07 | 2012-06 | 2012-05 | 2012-04 | 2012-03 | 2012-02 | 2012-01 | 2011-12 | 2011-11 | 2011-10 | 2011-09 | 2011-08 | 2011-07 | 1969-12 | 0009-06 | 0003-01

Townhall Top of the Hour News

Weather - Sponsored By:

TAYLORVILLE WEATHER

Local News

Facebook Feed - Sponsored By: