Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00

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.

Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
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."
St. Louis was 11-8 against the Reds last season.
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-31 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-29 00:00:00

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.
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.
Posted
2014-03-29 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-29 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-28 00:00:00
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.

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]

Heidi Hall
Heidi Hall with Shelby Electric talks about one of their major projects they have going on:
[audio:hallproject032814.mp3]comment here[/audio]

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]

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.
Posted
2014-03-28 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-28 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-28 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-28 00:00:00
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. Blackhawks 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.
Posted
2014-03-28 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-28 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 27 4 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm
March 28 3 EMS
Posted
2014-03-28 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 26 1 Mutual Aid, 1 Grass Fire, 1 Gas Leak
March 27 1 Mutual Aid
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00

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]

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]

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.

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]

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]

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]

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.
Posted
2014-03-27 00:00:00

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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00

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
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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 Cubs 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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 25 1 EMS, 1 Public Assist
March 26 2 EMS
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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 Bears 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.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00

Pictured left to right is Betty Asmussen from Peoples Bank, Senior Ciara Wieczynski, Junior David Gideon, Sophomore Derek Lahey, and Freshman Hershel Rhodes.
Posted
2014-03-26 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-25 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-25 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-25 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-25 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-25 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-25 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-25 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-25 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 24 2 EMS, 1 Illegal Burn
Posted
2014-03-24 20:45:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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:
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2014-03-24 00:00:00
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2014-03-24 00:00:00
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 Blues 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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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:
Posted
2014-03-24 00:00:00
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2014-03-24 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-22 00:00:00

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.
Posted
2014-03-22 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-22 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-22 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-22 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-21 00:00:00
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.
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2014-03-21 00:00:00
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2014-03-21 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-21 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-21 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-21 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 20 2 EMS, 2 Brush Fire, 1 Fire
March 21 1 EMS
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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2014-03-20 00:00:00

(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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-20 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
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:
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
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 Sox 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.
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
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 Cubs 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.
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
(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.
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2014-03-19 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-19 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DPEARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
4
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
Here are links to the tonight's election returns as they come in:
Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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Posted
2014-03-18 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00

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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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 ... Blackhawks forward Brandon Saad left the game with an upper-body injury.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.

Richard Ruff

Pamela Muffick

Julie Hampton
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-17 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-15 00:00:00

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.
Posted
2014-03-15 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-15 00:00:00

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
Posted
2014-03-15 00:00:00
A Taylorville business is offering some new services. B and R Construction owner Ross Kirkendoll says they are now selling and servicing boats:
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
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”.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 13 2 EMS, 1 Automatic Alarm, 1 Motor Vehicle Accident
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-14 00:00:00
Boys Basketball - Athletic
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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 White 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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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 Blackhawks 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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-13 00:00:00

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.

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.
Posted
2014-03-12 09:30:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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 Bulls 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).
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 11 3EMS, 1 Timber Fire, 1 Public Assist
March 12 3 EMS
Posted
2014-03-12 00:00:00
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:
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
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.

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.

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.
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 10 2 EMS, 1 Detector
March 11 2 EMS, 1 Alarm
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00

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.
Posted
2014-03-11 00:00:00

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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
President Barack Obama continues to make changes to his Obamacare program by himself. Congressman Rodney Davis of Taylorville tells Regional Radio News why the President’s actions are frustrating:
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
St. Paul, MN (SportsNetwork.com) - How's the view from the top, St. Louis?
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 St. Louis 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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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 Blackhawks were also 0-for-5 on the power play.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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. Louis 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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-10 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-08 00:00:00

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.
Posted
2014-03-08 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-08 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-08 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-08 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
4
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
As heard on WTIM, the Taylorville boys fell to Glenwood with a score of 63-45.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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:
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-07 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00

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.

The original banquet hall. There is an opening connecting the new to the old.


Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
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 White Sox 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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
>>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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
THE TAYLORVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS THE FOLLOWING CALLS:
March 5 2 EMS, 1 Public Assist
March 6 1 Public Assist, 1 EMS
Posted
2014-03-06 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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 Blues 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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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 Blackhawks 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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
Coming up tonight on Regional Radio:
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
As heard on WTIM, Taylorville defeated Mattoon with a score of 81-62.
Posted
2014-03-05 00:00:00
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:
Posted
2014-03-04 00:00:00

(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.
Posted
2014-03-04 00:00:00
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 Bulls play on the road at Detroit on Wednesday.
Posted
2014-03-04 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-04 00:00:00
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
Posted
2014-03-04 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-04 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-04 00:00:00

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.
Posted
2014-03-04 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
(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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-03 00:00:00
Posted
2014-03-01 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-01 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-01 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-01 00:00:00
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.
Posted
2014-03-01 00:00:00
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).
Posted
2014-03-01 00:00:00

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.
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