Neil Hohenstein of Taylorville has joined the Miller Media Group as a full-time advertising account manager, as well as continuing to host the NEWCountry.FM morning show on WSVZ 98.3 and NEW Country 104.1.
Hohenstein has been owner of Audio Dimensions DJ Service in Taylorville the past 15 years, and as an entrapreneur has owned or operated several other businesses in the Taylorville community.
Miller Media Group president Randal J. Miller said he was extremely pleased to have Hohenstein's business experience and know-how, become a part of the company. Miller added that his attributes will be great assets in helping local businesses succeed thru effective radio and digital advertising.
Hohenstein, his wife and 3 children reside in Taylorville.
Hohenstein this week also earned the "Radio Marketing Professional" certification from the Radio Advertising Bureau.
The Illinois State Police District 18 will be conducting a free child safety seat check at the Walgreens in Litchfield on June 4th, as part of an ongoing effort to making zero traffic fatalities a reality. Trooper Heath Bryan with the Illinois State Police shared with Regional Radio News some details on the event.
Bryan went on to say how child safety seats being installed incorrectly or having a recall on the seat that the parents are unaware of is a bigger deal than you might think.
There are no appointments necessary to attend the event and to have your child’s safety seat checked out. The Litchfield Police Department and Fire Department will also be present doing demonstrations for the kids while their seats are being inspected and installed properly.
The Strasburg Farmers Market will be kicking off on Thursday from 4:30 until 6:30 at the Strasburg Community Center, along with “Strawberry Fest” which is a celebration of the strawberry. Strasburg Resident and Strasburg Community Action Network member Karen Kull (cool) spoke with Regional Radio News, and gave some details on the Strawberry Festival.
Kull said how the Strasburg Farmers Market is always looking for vendors, and said how vendors can get involved.
The Strasburg Farmers Market will be open Thursdays during June-August from 4:30-6 p.m. in the Community Center parking lot. To sign up as a vendor, contact Patsy Lenz at 644-2667. For more information visit the “Strasburg, Illinois Farmer's Market” Facebook page, or the Strasburg website at Strasburg-I-L dot com.
Dave Druker, Press Secretary for the Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show, Tuesday. Druker explained how a new driver's license and identification procedure was starting to take place in Illinois where people would get their license or ID on a delayed time rather than getting it over the counter.
This new system is to improve security and to better protect citizen's from fraud or identity theft.
For more information on the new driver's license and identification process, and how it will affect you, you can go to cyberdriveillinois.com.
Jim Bohannon, Host of the Jim Bohannon Show, appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Tuesday, to discuss the present political outlook. Bohannon explained that, political analyst, William Kristol has recently talked about another conservative political figure possibly entering the presidential race and causing a major win for the Democrats.
Bohannon stressed, multiple times, the fact that it is important to vote in this election if any other because the winner will have the choice of what the future of the Supreme Court will look like.
You can hear more from Jim Bohannon week nights at 9 on NewsTalk WTIM.
The Christian County Crimestoppers are seeking information regarding a burglary that occurred in Taylorville in this week’s Crimestoppers Crime of the Week. Sometime around 4:30 AM on Friday, May 20th, a person or persons of currently unknown identity made entry into the To the Moon Tattoo shop, located at 102 South Main Street. While inside, the person or people in question took numerous items including 7 tattoo guns, a 47 inch flat screen television, an X-Box 360 video game system, a tablet, as well as other items. A back door as well as an ATM machine was also damaged during the break in. Please contact Crimestoppers by calling 824-9100 or at their website at christiancountycrimestoppers.org if you have any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons. You can also contact Crimestoppers by texting CRIMES (274632), and then your tip, and as always you will remain anonymous. Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1,000.00 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.
The Miller Media Group will premiere a new FM radio station in Christian County, just past midnight on Wednesday, June First.
"Easy Hits 96-point-5" will present easy hits from core artists such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis, Junior, Andy Williams, and Nat King Cole. The station's format will focus on the easy hits from the 1950's thru the 1980's.
Local news will be heard at the bottom of every hour, SRN national news at 50 past every hour, and weather twice an hour on the new "Easy Hits 96-point-5".
The new station is one of 6 stations that operate from the Miller Media Group studios at 918 East Park in Taylorville.
The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget held a briefing today to discuss the consequences of the General Assembly adjourning without passing a balanced budget with reforms on Friday. GOMB Director Tim Nuding said in a conference call with the press how after further analysis of the proposed budget that passed the state house on Wednesday, that the seven billion dollar deficit figure was indeed accurate.
Nuding also addressed the notion that the governor’s office could veto the proposed budget should it reach his desk, and balance the budget through the use of veto powers, stating how that was a myth.
Nuding went on to talk about how there are some areas of the state budget that the governor’s office doesn’t have the power to cut costs. Some of those areas included payment of debt service on bonds, medicade, and pension contributions.
The Witt Lions Club, in conjunction with the Lions Illinois Foundation will be holding a free hearing screening and retinal diabetes eye screening on Wednesday, June 1st from 9AM until 1PM at the Witt Lions Club Building in Witt. Second Vice President of the Witt Lions Club Jim Davis spoke with Regional Radio News, and said how the club is also turning the event into a General Health Fair.
Davis said how the Club is still looking for health organizations to set up a booth at event.
If you are a health organization that would like to get involved with the event, you can call Jim Davis at (815) 277-7718 to reserve a table for the Health Fair.
Illinois House Democrats passed a proposed budget on Wednesday. The budget received no votes from House Republicans, and has been widely criticized by the party. Illinois State Senator Dale Righter, a Republican from the 55th district spoke with Regional Radio News recently, and explained why the proposed budget has been criticized.
Senator Righter mentioned how in order to pay for the proposed budget, taxes in Illinois would have to be raised by 50%, which would mean an additional $1000 out of the pockets of every household in the state. Senator Righter did say that there are spending items that both sides can agree on, however big changes need to be made to the current proposed budget in order to ensure a budget that the state can afford.
Senator Righter said how there have been bi-partisan working groups working towards a four to five year balanced budget plan, however several House Democrats who had been a part of these working groups have instead decided to follow Speaker Madigan’s budget proposal. Senator Righter mentioned that there is still time to compromise on a budget plan before the June 1st deadline; however the current situation looks grim.
The developers for Cobblestone Inns, held 2 investor meetings in Taylorville Thursday afternoon at the University of Illinois Extension Christian County office, to determine the interest in a proposed 54-room hotel for the Christian County seat.
The event was hosted by the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and the Christian County Economic Development Corporation.
Chris Gassel, vice president of development for BriMark Builders LLC, made the presentation, which included comparable numbers for similar markets, and a 5-year projection for the Taylorville hotel should it be built.
Gassel spoke with Regional Radio News before the 4 o'clock session Thursday afternoon and said he their development group has constructed several Cobblestone Inns in small towns in Illinois and the Midwest.
Gassel said what makes Cobblestone Inns unique, is local ownership.
Gassel said it's all about how to build the right hotel for the community.
Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton was pleased with the presentation and said it would be a boon to the community.
It will now be up to the Taylorville community, to decide whether to invest in the proposed Cobblestone Inn hotel.
The Taylorville Community Credit Union is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Will Perkins, CEO of TCCU appeared on The WTIM NEWSTALK Morning Show Thursday to share how they plan to celebrate.
One of the ways TCCU is celebrating is by holding their second annual Freedom Tree Project.
TCCU will have many promotions beginning in the month of June to celebrate its anniversary including car and other loan promotions as well as some deposit promotions.
On Thursday, NEWSTALK WTIM had Jamie Stout, Director of Community Education at Lincoln Land Community College as a guest to talk about day camps the college has going on throughout the summer. One of the camps they have going on is a video game camp for children, where they can learn how to build their own personal video games.
Stout is also looking for new Community Education classes for LLCC to create as well as instructors to teach these classes. She wants to continue to expand the list of these classes so the college can attract people of all interests.
To contact Stout with class ideas or to be an instructor for a class, you can call her at 286-2430 or email her at jamie.stout@llcc.edu
Lisa Peterson, Nutrition and Wellness Educator from The University of Illinois, Extension Unit 18, appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Thursday, to discuss canning. She explained that using a pressure canner is the best way to can your foods and the University of Illinois is helping people test the pressure on their cans to keep people and their food safe.
Peterson is teaching several classes in August, including one that teaches how to make jams and jellies, and how to can them.
Pressure Dial Gauge Clinics will be held at the University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 on June 14th to test people's can pressure and give information on anything that needs to be replaced.
There has been a recent string of burglaries in Taylorville. Taylorville Chief of Police Dave Herpstreith spoke with Regional Radio News recently and said how although there currently isn’t any sign of the burglaries being connected, the Taylorville Police Department is still exploring the possibility.
Herpstreith said how the Taylorville Police Department is deploying extra patrols to help combat the recent string of crime in the city. Herpstreith also urged anybody who sees any sort of suspicious activity that they think might related to a crime being committed, to contact the Taylorville Police Department, and let them handle the activity.
Herpstreith also mentioned how if you see a burglary or other crime being committed; don’t try to handle it yourself. Instead, call the Taylorville Police Department.
The construction on Illinois Route 29 will be starting back up again in June. Construction had been delayed due to the recent string of rainy weather that central Illinois has experienced the last few weeks. Mike Bell, co-chairman of a highway expansion project on Illinois Route 29 told Regional Radio News explained why the wet weather has caused the construction delays on the highway.
Bell said how even with the construction delays, those drivers who use Illinois Route 29 can still expect the highway to be open by the end of the summer.
Bell did warn that there is always the potential for construction to end up taking longer than expected, but he personally does not see that happening, and expects the project to be completed by the end of the summer.
An overflow crowd attended last Thursday's Christian County C-E-O, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities", Trade Show at Lincoln Land Community College's Taylorville campus. The 9 students enrolled in the program, showed off the business they had created as a result of the many months of touring area businesses and learning entrepreneurial skills. Each had a booth offering their products to those attending.
W-R-A-N groovy 97-point-3 broadcast live from the event, and talked with Jessica Winter about her business and the response at her booth.
And, Kyle Kuntzman was another one of the 9 Christian County C-E-O students who had a booth at the Trade Show. Kyle talked about how a professional sports team had been helping his business at the Trade Show.
For more information on the Christian County C-E-O program, go to christiancountyceo-dot-com.
The Christian County Economic Development Corporation held an Executive Committee Meeting on May 19th. The committee had several important items on the agenda, such as a motion to approve a full board meeting that took place on March 22nd. Mary Renner, Executive Director of the Christian County Economic Development Corporation spoke with Regional Radio News recently about some of the other items discussed at the meeting.
Renner was asked if there was any sort of time table for when Taylorville might see early progress on that hotel project. Renner explained how the CCECD would like to see it completed as soon as possible, but there currently isn’t any sort of time table in place for the project.
Renner explained how the hotel project depends upon how quickly the CCECD can get investors together to help secure the bank loan, as well as what time of year it is before ground can be broken on the project.
The Taylorville Park board held their monthly meeting on Monday. Marlane Miller, President of the Taylorville Park Board spoke with Regional Radio News about what were the highlights of the meeting. Miller told Regional Radio News how the Park Board had received an update from Lake Shore Golf Course about the vandalism that had happened on the course.
It was a short meeting that also featured budget reports from several members of the park board. The next meeting of the Taylorville Park Board will be taking place on June 27th at the Manner’s Park Administration Office Board Room.
An overflow crowd attended last Thursday's Christian County CEO, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities", Trade Show at Lincoln Land Community College's Taylorville campus. The 9 students enrolled in the program, showed off the business they had created as a result of the many months of touring area businesses and learning entrepreneurial skills. Each had a booth offering their products to those attending.
WRAN groovy 97.3 broadcast live from the event, and talked with Myah Herbord about the response at her booth.
And, Sophie Tremblay was another one of the 9 Christian County CEO students who had a booth at the Trade Show. Tremblay talked about her business, and how her friends had been helping her with her booth.
For more information on the Christian County CEO program, go to christiancountyceo.com.
The Springfield Park District is having the annual International Carillon Festival June 5th through the 10th. Carillonist Carlo Van Ulft, appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Wednesday to explain what a carillon is, and when the Carillon Fest became an annual event.
Van Ulft explained that many people who come to the Carillon Fest don't go for only an hour or two. They spend their time enjoying the music and the people around them.
The event is free and open to the public. For more information on the International Carillon Festival, you can go to carillon dash rees dot org, or Google Carillon Rees Springfield.
Public Affairs Specialist for the Social Security Administration, Jack Myers, was a guest on The NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Wednesday. Myers mentioned how Memorial Day weekend is approaching, and while it is a time for family and fun, Social Security recognizes this day as a way to remember veterans of the Armed Forces.
Myers also talked about Medicare Part D, the prescription drug portion of Medicare, and how Social Security helps people who have it.
You can create a Social Security account or find out more about their programs at socialsecurity.com.
Jodi Heberling, a member of the Christian County Historical Society Board, was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss events happening at the Historical Society throughout the month of June. The first event is a rag doll workshop taking place on June 4th, where people can make their own rag dolls to take home. Heberling explained, that for a small cost you can join the Historical Society, bring your family and friends, or come alone, and learn how to make your own rag doll.
Heberling, said that the Christian County Historical Society has also raised money to help repair the roof of the original christian county courthouse to help preserve the structure.
You can find out more about The Christian County Historical Society and their June events, by visiting their Facebook page.
The Illinois House this afternoon failed to override the Governor’s veto of HB 580 that would have taken power from the Governor in state employee contract negotiations, and instead impose binding arbitration.
The Governor's press secretary Catherine Kelly, issued a statement saying that
HB 580 was, quoting Kelly:
"unprecedented and unaffordable, and simply another attempt by the Majority Party in the legislature to insert themselves into the contract process and put hard working families in Illinois on the hook for a $3 billion tax hike."
Kelly added that the Governor thanked those members whoshe says took the pro-taxpayer position, and Kelly says it is now time to move forward and find compromise on a balanced budget with structural reforms that will put the state on the path to prosperity.
The upcoming National Memorial Day Parade will have local representation as Stonington resident and Desert Storm Veteran Chad Weber marches with over 500 Gulf War veterans in the parade in Washington. Weber spoke with Regional Radio News recently about how he volunteered to participate in the parade.
The veterans are participating in the parade thanks to the National Desert Storm War Memorial Association, whose mission is to honor Gulf War Veterans by building a monument in the capital to honor those who served and died in the first Gulf War. Weber reminded everybody that although Memorial Day is a day for barbeques and an unofficial start to the summer for many, that the real reason for the holiday is much more important.
This year’s parade marks the 25th anniversary of Operation Desert Storm. Weber and other veterans will follow part of the same route service members returning from the Middle East marched 25 years ago.
Pastor Steve Switzer, Lead Pastor at the Calvary Baptist Church, was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning show Tuesday. Switzer talked about some of the upcoming events Calvary Baptist church is holding this summer to bring the community together. The first event they are holding will be couples night on June 24th.
Calvary Baptist Church is holding many other events this summer such as Backyard Barbeques and family nights to reach out to the community.
You can find out more about the church and they events they are holding at cbctaylorville.com
Marsalyn (Marsa-lynn) Love, spokesperson for Ameren Illinois appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Tuesday to discuss May as Storm Preparedness Month and how people can be ready when a storm strikes. Love also discussed how Ameren is prepared for the summer storms since they can be unpredictable.
Love said that Ameren partners with communities to make sure every town they provide service in, will be up and running as soon as possible when an outage occurs.
Storm Preparedness Month continues throughout the rest of May, and Ameren is trying to keep you prepared where you can find more information at amerenillinois-dot-com.
An overflow crowd attended last Thursday's Christian County CEO, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities", Trade Show at Lincoln Land Community College's Taylorville campus. The 9 students enrolled in the program, showed off the business they had created as a result of the many months of touring area businesses and learning entrepreneurial skills. Each had a booth offering their products to those attending.
WRAN groovy 97.3 broadcast live from the event, and talked with Lauren Bailey and Ivy Fry about the response at their booth.
And, Luke Puckett was another one of the 9 Christian County CEO students who had a booth at the Trade Show. Puckett was in the middle of a sale when WRAN visited his booth, and listened in to Puckett discussing his business with a customer.
For more information on the Christian County CEO program, go to christiancountyceo.com.
New details have emerged regarding the urgent care facility currently under construction in Taylorville. The new facility will be owned by the same owners of Effingham Express Care in Effingham. Dr. Paul Toofan, Physician and owner of Effingham Express Care spoke with Regional Radio news recently, and shared some of the details of the new urgent care facility.
It’s anticipated that the new facility will open sometime in September. There will be some training of the new employees, with services expected to be ready to go by the time school starts and the fall illness season starts. Dr. Toofan also shared with Regional Radio News some of the benefits of visiting an urgent care facility as opposed to visiting your local E-R.
Dr. Toofan also reminded listeners that if you’re experiencing severe pain, illness or injury, to visit your local emergency room instead of the prompt care facility, however should you arrive at the prompt care facility; they will gladly arrange an ambulance for you to get to the nearest hospital.
The 94.3 WMKR and People's Bank and Trust Pana Students of the Month for April and May were presented their awards recently. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes.
The April Students of the Month are senior Adrainna Suter, junior Courtney Beck, sophmore Jacob Beeson, and freshman Jordan Bock. Joani Jones of People's Bank and Trust was in attendance when the students recieved their plaques.
The May Students of the Month are senior James LaMarche, junior Brooklyn Jewsbury, sophmore Madolyn Heckler, and freshman Haley Klein. Joani Jones of People's Bank and Trust was in attendance when the students received their plaques.
An overflow crowd attended last Friday's Christian County C-E-O, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities", Trade Show at Lincoln Land Community College's Taylorville campus. The 9 students enrolled in the program, showed off the business they had created as a result of the many months of touring area businesses and learning entrepreneurial skills. Each had a booth offering their products to those attending.
W-R-A-N groovy 97-point-3 broadcast live from the event, and talked with Kenneth Alcala about the response at his booth.
And, Ben Robinson was another one of the 9 Christian County C-E-O students who had a booth at the Trade Show.
For more information on the Christian County C-E-O program, go to christiancountyceo-dot-com.
Taylorville mayor Greg Brotherton was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Monday morning, and discussed the growth that's happening in the city with the new Prompt Care facility being built, as an example.
And, Mayor Brotherton said that plans for the new water treatment plant have come to a halt as a result of finding a pottery piece from the 1800's at the site.
It's not known when the planning for the water plant, will resume.
The topic of Swing Bed, was discussed on Monday's NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. Becky Erlenbush, manager of Care Management at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, talked about the service, that provides a transition between skilled nursing care and going home for patients.
Erlenbush told listeners what the Swing Bed program offers.
Erlenbush says the length of stay is different for each individual patient.
To reach Taylorville Memorial Hospital's Swing Bed program, contact Erlenbush at 824-1130.
Daniel Statum, a recent graduate from Appalchian State University in Boone, North Carolina, is the newest member of the Miller Media Group announcer staff. Statum came on board Monday, and appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. Statum says he grew up in a town of 3-thousand in North Carolina.
Statum said that after reviewing both journalism and radio majors in college, he decided to make radio a career, and accepting the program director position at his college radio station.
Statum will be on-air on NEWSTALK WTIM and WRAN weekdays and weekends.
Crimestoppers is seeking information regarding criminal damage that occurred in Taylorville. Sometime during the overnight hours between Friday, May 6th and Saturday, May 7th, a person or persons of unknown identity damaged equipment and trees at the Lakeshore Golf Course. The person or people in question damaged several sprinkler heads, a power control box, and a pine tree. A Cottonwood tree on the course was also cut down with a chainsaw. It appears that the subject or subjects involved took a boat to gain access to the course. The total dollar amount of the damage totals over $3500. Crimestoppers asks you to contact them if you have any information on this crime or any crime or wanted persons. Crimestoppers will pay a cash reward of up to $1000 for information leading 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 their website at christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES, and then your tip. As always, you will remain anonymous.
St Mary’s Catholic School broke ground on a new addition to their school over the weekend. The addition will be made to the newer building at St. Mary’s that was built in 2000, and will allow the school to discontinue use of the nearly 100 year old building on their campus. St. Mary’s Principal Cathy Robertson spoke with Regional Radio News recently, and said how the new addition will provide a safer learning environment for their students.
The expansion is expected to be completed by December, with several grades moving into the new expansion as the year moves on. Robertson gave some details as far as when each class and eventually the faculty will move into the new expansion.
Robertson did say that the old school will be torn down once the new building is fully functional. She explained how the decision was a difficult one, and how the costs to bring the old building up to current standards was simply too great for the school.
Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show recently. Kettelkamp talked about how with the school year coming to a close and with kids having much more free time, that parents are responsible for the actions of their children.
Kettelkamp said how parents don’t have to provide alcohol for under-aged parties. Simply providing a location where the parents know that there will be under-aged consumption of alcohol is enough to land them in hot water. Kettelkamp talked about some of the punishments that can be delivered to parents who break the law.
Kettelkamp expressed that the graduation season as well as the summer is a time for celebration, but reminded young adults that it can simply take one wrong move to derail your future.
Denise Bence, Superintendent of the Shelbyville School District was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown Shelbyville Studios on Friday. Host Jim Finks asked Bence about this year’s graduating class from Shelbyville High School, mentioning how the local Masonic Lodge had the most requests for scholarships from any one year than they had ever had. Bence said that the high performing class also reflected the local community.
Bence also talked about the rather large amounts of retirements going on in the Shelbyville School District.
Bence mentioned how the Shelbyville School District will be welcoming 10 new staff and one new administrator to the school district next year. She said how that’s the most that she had ever seen in her tenure.
Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce member Vonda McConnell was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our Downtown Shelbyville studios on Friday. Host Jim Finks asked McConnell about the golf outing that happened Friday (today). McConnell talked about how difficult the events that the chamber holds can be to prepare.
McConnell also talked about the Chamber of Commerce’s membership drive. She said how the Chamber has welcomed several new members this year.
McConnell mentioned how the Library has several wonderful programs for the public, and said how the people involved with the Library put in a lot of hard work to promote a positive experience for the community.
Shelby County Sheriff Don Koonce and Shelby County Undersheriff Rob McCall were guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show, live from our downtown studios in Shelbyville. Host Jim Finks asked Koonce and McCall about video arraignment. Koonce explained how it can be dangerous to move inmates to and from the jail to the courthouse, and that fueled the decision to switch to remote video arraignment.
Koonce also stated how the video arraignment has saved money in the process, not costing the tax payer one cent. Shelby County Undersheriff Rob McCall explained how that is.
McCall also said how Shelby County Public Defender Amanda Harlough paid for half of the system through her budget, due to the increased ease and safety the new system brought to her.
4H and Youth Development Coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension, Alicia Gullidge was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show recently. Gullidge relayed a little bit about what’s going on with the 4H and Youth Development division at the U of I Extension.
Gullidge said how the programs offered at the U of I Extension can help students break free from their shell, and how that transformation can be fun to watch. She highlighted some of the programs that help students grow.
That public presentation is going on May 31st at 6PM at the University of Illinois Extension office. For more information you can call the office at 287-7246.
There has been a suicide in Assumption. Christian County Coroner Amy Winans reported to Regional Radio News on Friday that on Wednesday at 6:20 PM, 911 had received a call that a 53 year old Male wasn’t breathing. EMS arrived on scene and requested the coroner. Deputy Coroner Bill Nation identified the man as Harold R. Truxell of Assumption. Truxell had died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The Christian County Sheriff’s office is handling the investigation.
It was graduation night of sorts, Thursday night for the 9 Christian County students enrolled in the C-E-O, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities" program.
After a year of learning about Christian County businesses, they created their own business and officially showed it off at the first-ever Christian County C-E-O Trade Show at Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville.
The turnout was overwhelming to the students. Cheryl Mitchell, who is interim executive director for the Midland Institute that first created the C-E-O program in Effingham, said she was pleased with how the community came out to support the students.
Christian County C-E-O facilitator Dick Adams echoed Mitchell's comments, and said it was a great tribute to the 9 students.
Miller Media Group's W-R-A-N groovy 97-point-3 broadcast live from the event. Hear comments from the 9 students in coming days on Regional Radio News.
One Republican downstate Senator says that Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan and the rest of the Democrats, killed legislation that the State Senate overwhelmingly supported May 5th to provide temporary funding to Eastern Illinois University and other state universities and colleges.
Senator Dale Righter of Mattoon claims that it's, quoting Righter, "another in the long line of examples that demonstrate Speaker Madigan is an impediment, as opposed to helpful,” end of quote.
Righter went on to say that Madigan's decision to kill the legislation to keep it from moving in the Illinois House, is what Righter calls a disgrace.
Righter says the temporary funding would have been paid for by a specific revenue source, and came out of bipartisan negotiation between the Governor, Senate Democrats and Republicans.
Senate Bill 2048 would have brought parity back to the higher education system by allowing every university and community college to receive 60 percent funding during the state’s budget impasse.
Righter says he is hopeful another solution can be found very soon to give more certainty to all of higher education, as the General Assembly’s scheduled spring adjournment date is May 31.
Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Thursday Morning. Hornbuckle discussed yesterday’s Business After Hours Event at McMillan Landscaping, and talked about the wine tasting that was going on at the event.
Hornbuckle mentioned how the Chamber has discussed adding the winery into the Chamber of Commerce, and said how the Chamber was planning a trip back to the winery to discuss the possibility. Hornbuckle also said how McMillan’s Landscaping hosted a fantastic Business After Hours event.
Hornbuckle mentioned that it was a great evening, that also had members from the Citizens for Education group that’s advocating for better education funding speak at the event.
Owner of CSH Investment Management in Taylorville and WTIM Investment Professional Steve Henry was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Wednesday morning. Methods that Retirees can earn money in today’s markets were the topic of discussion. Henry said that Retirees can make money off investments without putting forth a lot of risk; however he did say that it’s a tough market right now for that.
Henry mentioned that there are many options for Retirees to invest their money, and said that people should invest their money in an intelligent way. He did say though that no matter how safe the investment, there is risk in everything.
Henry said that it’s important to have an investment plan, and to do it in an intelligent fashion.
It’s National EMS week this week. Nancy Likes, a paramedic with Sutton Ambulance Service spoke with Regional Radio News Recently informed us what National EMS Week is.
Likes said how the week is a week of recognition for the EMS workers in the area, and like to give recognition to their employees who have worked so hard. She also said how it’s a week to let EMS workers tell the community a little bit about what they do.
Emergency medical personnel continually strive to be current on the newest and latest procedures to facilitate the most positive outcome for their patients. National EMS Week is a way to recognize the work that they do.
The Palomino Club as well as Maustell’s Pizza in Taylorville is holding their first annual Aldo Klinghammer Chili Cook-Off May 21st and 22nd. Tina Blazier with the Palomino Club spoke with Regional Radio News recently, and shared some of the details of the cook-off.
Blazier said how the group is still looking for volunteers to help judge the event as well as help with tear down and clean up. She also shared how you can make a donation to the Christian County Senior Citizens Center during the event.
Food items and Lemon Shake-Ups will also be available to purchase at the Chili Cook-Off. You can make a donation by calling Tina Blazier at 855-8097 or at 433-0550.
Krista Lisser from the Central Illinois Food Bank was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Wednesday morning. Lisser talked about the upcoming mobile food pantry going on this Saturday in Christian County.
Lisser went on to explain exactly what a mobile food pantry is, and how they work.
Again that mobile food pantry going on this Saturday at 10AM at the Davis Memorial Christian Church at 1500 West Franklin Street in Taylorville.
Bailey Hancock from the Taylorville Park District was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show on Wednesday morning. Hancock talked about how the Park District is getting ready for the summer season, and some of the upcoming events going on.
All of the upcoming football leagues will be holding their games at the Don Bragg Sports Complex at 1700 West Vandeveer Street in Taylorville. Hancock also talked about upcoming softball leagues going on at Manner’s Park in Taylorville, as well as the Men’s Sunday Softball league going on at the Don Bragg Complex.
For more information on any of the events going on at the various facilities in in Taylorville, you can contact the Taylorville Park District’s Recreation Director at 824-5878.
The Taylorville Post Office will be celebrating their building’s 100th anniversary with a building dedication today at 1. Post Master Vicki Wegmann told Regional Radio News recently about some of the events that the Post Office has planned to celebrate.
Wegmann also talked about a little bit of the history of the building.
Wegmann said how the post office is proud of their location, and their building, and also thanked their customers. Again that building dedication will be happening today at 1 in the Taylorville Post Office Lobby.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club awarded 2 750-dollar scholarships to 2 Taylorville High School seniors, during the high school Awards Night on May 12th.
Hannah Jachino (left) will be attending Lindenwood University this fall with the intended course study of education and business. Hannah is a four-year Key Club member, and current treasurer. She was involved in the Dodgeball Tournament fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis, worked the Kiwanis Club Peanut Days and did Trick or Treat for Unicef.
Mallory Westrick (right) will be attending SIUE and has plans to become a nurse practitioner after obtaining her RN/BSN. She has already completed her CNA and is working in assisted living. Mallory is also a four-year Key Club member and has worked the Kiwanis breakfasts and participated in Trick or Treating for Unicef.
Kiwanis member Patty Hornbuckle (middle) presented the scholarships to the 2 winners.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving 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.
(Taylorville)--Incoming President Will Perkins (left) presided over the weekly meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club on Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Speaker was Don Farrimond (right) spoke about Oak Ridge Cemetery where President Abraham Lincoln is now buried. He spoke of the drawn out process to have him buried there, the construction of the tomb, monument and grounds.
Engraved names in the burial chamber walls mark the location of the Lincoln family crypts. The remains of Mary Todd Lincoln and three of the Lincolns’ four children are interred with the Sixteenth President. Robert Todd Lincoln was the only Lincoln child to reach adulthood. His is buried in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C.
Above the window are engraved the words spoken by Secretary of War Edwin Stanton at the moment of Lincoln’s death, “Now He Belongs To The Ages.”
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving 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.
Melissa Rybolt, Marketing Coordinator for Pana Community Hospital was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show Tuesday morning. Rybolt talked about the LiveWell Fitness Center, and said how the Fitness Center is a wonderful tool that the hospital has to help patients in their recovery process.
The LiveWell Fitness Center is its own entity, and people who wish to use the Fitness Center don’t need to go to the hospital to do so. The Fitness Center offers several classes to help people with their fitness needs. Rybolt talked about some of the new classes being offered at the Fitness Center.
Rybolt said how the Fitness Center is always mixing things up and adding new classes to the agenda. For more information on the Fitness Center, call 562-6231.
The Christian County CEO Board of Directors are pleased to introduce four more new Christian County businesses.
Jessica Winter of Pana follows her passion for designing horse show clothing at KJ Designs and Show Clothing. Jessica was never interested in wearing others designs at shows, so she began to create her own style. DKJ Designs and Show Clothing, founded a year ago, have national and international sales. Luke Puckett Jr. of Stonington founded Puckwicks Candle Company. Fragrant soy wax candles are the heart of Puckwicks Candle Company. Customers will find the products affordable. Lauren Bailey of Owaneco and Ivy Fry of Pana form a partnership called Elandi, based on their love of outdoors. At Elandi one will find handmade papercrete pots with a select variety of locally homegrown flowers. Kenneth Alcala of Edinburg has announced that DMDecals will market, produce and apply vinyl stickers and wraps to cars and trucks. The custom wraps are applied directly over the original paint of the vehicle. The wraps are easily removed and can be used for advertising businesses or, just to show off your personality.
The Christian County CEO Trade Show is scheduled for Thursday, May 19th from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Lincoln Land Community College-Taylorville. The Trade Show is free to attend, open to the public, and a chance to interact with the newest business owners of Christian County.
The Taylorville City Council met in regular session last night at the Taylorville Municipal Building. One of the major items of the night was the resignation of Alderman Rocky Moore. Mayor Brotherton made a short comment on how he, as well as many of the other Aldermen was sad to see Alderman Moore go, but understood that other things sometimes hold a higher priority in life. There was a motion for Alderman Moore’s resignation, which passed 7-1. Mayor Brotherton did ask City Attorney Romano that if the motion hadn’t passed, if Alderman Moore was obligated to stay on the council. City Attorney Romano clarified that that wasn’t the case.
Another item of note was the recognition of Taylorville Police Sergeant Alan Mills being an Optimist Officer of the Year finalist. Mayor Brotherton presented Sergeant Mills with a Proclamation, and extended his gratitude for Mills’ service to Taylorville.
Christian County Emergency Manager Mike Crews was also presented with a Proclamation for his award for Coordinator of the Year. City Attorney Romano gave several updates on the legal side of several issues within the city of Taylorville, and the Mayor gave his updates, which included making note of the city moving their Thursday committee meetings so that the members of the committees could attend the Christian County CEO Trade Show on Thursday, May 19th at Lincoln Land Community College.
Other items on the agenda included motions for several items. These included a motion to bid and advertise a heavy equipment operator position in the water department, a motion to direct City Attorney Romano to draft a new Village of Owaneco intergovernmental agreement to present to the water committee to review, a motion to accept the low quote for lab testing fees from the Illinois EPA for the 2016-2017 sampling period, motion to accept the low bid from HD Supply Waterworks for service line materials, motion to direct City Attorney Romano to draft a new intergovernmental agreement for the water committee to review and after their approval to engage with discussion with Kincaid, as well as several motions regarding items around Taylorville Lake. All motions passed with an 8-0 vote.
One item that did generate some discussion however surrounded an update surrounding the potential site of a new water plant for Taylorville, and some of the roadblocks that it has encountered from the state. It has been ruled that there needs to be a phase two study of the potential site for the water plant. Water Superintendent David Speagle informed the council that the Water Department would need to remove portions of the design of the new water plant, and continue with the design and loan application process. Alderman Walters as well as Alderman Burtle asked Superintendent Speagle as well as City Attorney Romano if there was any sort of legal motion the city could take to contest the decision. City Attorney Romano informed the council that there wasn’t much that the city could do.
Superintendent Speagle said that the plan moving forward was to remove two lagoons from the plans of the plant, and to move forward with planning the new water plant.
Kent Redfield, Political Science Professor for the University of Illinois was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Monday morning. Redfield talked about the strange state that Illinois politics as well as national politics is in. Redfield said how the Illinois budget impasse is unprecedented in United States State politics.
Redfield talked about how the way the state has been functioning is not sustainable, and how the only way to be able to do what the state is doing is to run the credit card.
Redfield mentioned how there are certain things that keep getting paid under court order; however the problem is that it gets harder and harder to make payments due to cash flow issues.
State Representative Avery Bourne was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Monday Morning. The turbulent times in Springfield were the topic of discussion. Bourne said that the state budget was priority number one for her.
Bourne mentioned how the way the State Budget is getting hammered out is unprecedented, but isn’t an unwelcome change, and that she feels that this is how it should be done anyway.
Bourne said that she feels that often times there is too much partisanship in the State Legislature, but did say that there is more good going on as far as reaching across the aisle is concerned than is usually heard.
The Taylorville City Council will be meeting in regular session tonight. Major items on the agenda include Alderman Moore’s resignation, amending the Zoning Classification of Certain Property, as well as discussions and or motions to approve, deny, or table several subject matters such as a motion to give DowntownTaylorville.org approval to place the Veterans Point Memorial at the Lake subject to the final approval of the city for site location and design and upon approval of a qualified engineer stating that the area is appropriate. Regional Radio News will have a full report tomorrow.
The Watson Company will be holding a hiring open house event at their Taylorville location on Thursday, May 19th.Vice President of Watson Inc. Gavin Watson told Regional Radio News about that open house event.
Watson also gave a little bit of background on Watson Inc. and what they do.
The Open House will be Thursday, May 19th at Watson’s Taylorville location at 1900 South Spresser in Taylorville from noon until 4. No RSVP is needed. Simply stop on in.
Phil Manhardt, Assistant Manager of Lake Shelbyville was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown studios on Friday. Manhardt told host Jim Finks a little bit about some of the upcoming events going on at Lake Shelbyville
Manhardt mentioned how fishing is getting going soon at Lake Shelbyville, and also mentioned some of the other summer activities that Lake Shelbyville has planned.
Manhardt said how the Lake is always trying to come up with new and fresh ideas for family friendly activities for Lake Shelbyville.
Shelly Evans, RN for Shelby Memorial Hospital and Manger of the Emergency Department was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown studios on Friday. Evans told host Jim Finks about herself and what lead to her current position at the hospital.
May is Stroke Awareness Month. Evans explained what a stroke is and what some of the key signs to look out for are.
Another sign to look out for to identify a stroke are speech impediments. Evans stressed that if you realize that a stroke is happening, to act fast and get the victim help as soon as possible.
Brenda Elder, Preservation Committee Fundraising Chairman was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown studios on Friday. Elder told host Jim Finks a little bit about the Shitaqua Restoration Project, and how she got involved with it.
Elder talked about some of the difficulties with the project.
The Preservation Committee has tried to keep the building from sitting vacant by utilizing the building for various uses.
Regional Radio News has learned that Taylorville Alderman Rocky Moore resigned this morning. Mayor Greg Brotherton tells us that Moore submitted his resignation letter to the mayor and the other 7 aldermen. Moore did not state a reason for his resignation.
Moore was elected Alderman from Ward One in May of 2015.
External Communications Manager for the American Red Cross, Rick Roseneck was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Thursday Morning. May is Trauma Awareness month. Roseneck explained what Trauma is and why the Red Cross is focusing an entire month on it.
Roseneck mentioned how there is a continuous need in the country for donated blood.
For more information you can visit the Red Cross online at redcross.org.
Andrew Holsinger, Horticulture Educator for the University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Thursday morning. Holsinger talked a little bit about the large amounts of rain that the area has seen recently, and said how people should stay out of their gardens when it’s too wet outside.
Holsinger said how the wet weather can be challenging for gardeners, and offered up several tips on how to better deal with the damp soil.
Holsinger said using straw in your soil can help soak up excess moisture in the ground. He also warned that using mulch such as grass clippings can be problematic for garden soils.
Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Thursday Morning. Hornbuckle talked about the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet and Awards ceremony that took place, saying how everything went on without a hitch.
Hornbuckle also talked about the Christian County CEO program, and mentioned the upcoming CEO Trade Show.
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Hornbuckle said that even if you don’t plan on buying anything at the CEO Trade Show, to come simply to view the work that the students have put in throughout the program.
The Newstalk WTIM and People’s Bank and Trust Students of the Month for May were presented their awards recently. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes.
The May Students of the Month are senior Ben Robinson, junior Aly Moore, sophomore Duncan Beck, and freshman Maddison Wilson. Lindsay Lopian of People’s Bank and Trust was in attendance when the students received their plaques.
Jake Leonard, Libertarian Candidate for the 95th State Representative District in the Illinois General Assembly was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Wednesday Morning. Leonard told us a little bit about himself and why he’s running for office.
Leonard mentioned how there is a lot of anger at how the political process has gone on in both Springfield and Washington, and said how that anger lead to his decision to run as a third party candidate.
Leonard explained how the libertarian party is for freedoms for everybody, and said how he typically is a fiscal conservative, and a social liberal.
Superintendent of the Taylorville School District Dr. Greggory Fursteneau was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Wednesday Morning. Senate Bill 231 passing in the Illinois Senate was a hot topic during the discussion, with Dr. Fursteneau said how this bill is very important to schools in Christian County.
It was noted how SB 231 was a revised bill that State Senator Andy Manar had already introduced, but hadn’t gone anywhere. House Speaker Michael Madigan currently has his own state education funding bill in the house. Dr. Fursteneau said how he thinks that school funding reform is a good starting point towards the discussion of a complete state budget.
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Fursteneau said how the school funding issue is a great opportunity for the state to rise above the political bickering that has held the state back in recent years, and work together for a better future.
The Illinois Senate today passed Senate Bill 231, an education funding reform proposal.
But, not all legislators were happy about it. State Senator Dale Righter said the bill isn't a fix but instead a bailout for Chicago Public Schools, which he said will get some 400-million dollars in additional money above what he calls the disproportationate share it already gets.
Righter added that this is occurring when Chicago Public Schools are failing financially and failing its students, with its dropout rate 150 percent higher than the state average. Righter says 27-percent of students are chronic truants, 200 percent higher than the state average. And, that reading, math, and science levels for Chicago Public School students are all well below the state average.
The Mattoon Senator says that the problem with this debate is that it's weighed too heavily on which school districts are winners and losers, and added that a better education funding system must start with the question of what the state wants to achieve thru the funding formula.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held its annual Prayer Luncheon on Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. From the left: Kiwanis Spiritual Aims Chairman Dick Wamsley, who organized the event; Ralph Sloman, who was honored as this year's “Outstanding Spiritual Leader”; guest speaker educator Kathryn Ransom, who spoke on “The Importance of Prayer”; and Kiwanis member Duane Stock, who presented the “Outstanding Spiritual Leader” award on behalf of the Kiwanis Club, to Sloman.
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The Taylorville Kiwanis Club recognized an “Outstanding Spiritual Leader” in the community, during their annual Prayer Luncheon on Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
The event began in 1991, as a way for the local Kiwanis Club to remind Kiwanis members and the public, of the importance of prayer in our daily lives.
Judge Ron Spears, who nominated this year's Outstanding Spiritual Leader, was asked to read part of his nomination application. Spears talked about the honoree, Ralph Sloman, and his commitment to God, his family and his community.
Sloman was then presented the award by Kiwanis member Duane Stock. Sloman thanked the Club for the award, and shared it with his late wife Beth, who worked with him in is many efforts on the farm and in church.
Guest speaker for the Kiwanis Prayer Luncheon was educator Kathryn Ransom, who spoke on “The Importance of Prayer.” She said she's changed her approach when someone asks her to pray for them.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving 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.
Jennifer Moore, Mobility Manager for Central Illinois Public Transportation was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning show Tuesday morning. Moore talked about how Central Illinois Public Transportation is a program through CEFS that offers public transportation for anyone in their service area. Moore said how Central Illinois Public Transportation was a new company that’s growing by leaps and bounds.
Moore said how they are a not for profit agency that serves seven counties in Central Illinois. More stressed how Central Illinois Transportation is open to everybody who wants to use their services.
For more information on the Central Illinois Public Transportation program, visit the Central Illinois Public Transportation tab on the CEFS website at cefseoc.org.
Sgt. Allen Mills, Coordinator for Christian County Crimestoppers was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning show Tuesday morning. Synthetic Marijuana was the topic of discussion. Sgt. Mills explained what it is and why it’s in Christian County.
Sgt. Mills explained how synthetic marijuana results in a different, much more intense high that can also have some terrible side effects such as liver damage and seizures. Sgt. Mills said how Taylorville’s location has led to synthetic marijuana being a problem in the local area.
Sgt. Mills said how one problem with synthetic marijuana is the fact that the people making it can change the chemical composition of the drug to make it legal. Mills said how the state legislature has tried to outlaw the drug, but the problem is as soon as a new law passes the chemical nature of the drug changes to skirt the law.
May is Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month. Lisa Peterson, Nutrition and Wellness Educator for the University of Illinois Extension recently told Regional Radio news why Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention is so important.
One way to prevent Osteoporosis is through Vitamin D and Calcium. Peterson said some of the ways we can get these vitamins and minerals into our bodies.
Typically those at higher risk of Osteoporosis are those older adults, due to a reduced activity load. Peterson noted that one way that older adults can help prevent Osteoporosis other than diet, is to exercise regularly.
A good crowd attended Monday night's Taylorville School Board meeting at the Administration building on West Spresser.
The Taylorville board promoted Matt Hutchison from assistant principal to principal at Taylorville High School, at their meeting Monday night. Hutchison replaces Bob Richardson, who is leaving the district after nearly 6 years as high school principal. Hutchison has been part of Taylorville High School for many years in various roles.
In other assignment changes by the Taylorville School Board last night:
--Kelly McKee, who had been a full-time pre-school teacher at Stonington Elementary School, was re-assigned to half-time at Stonington and half-time at Washington Elementary School in Pana.
--Melinda Elliott, an itinerant elementary art teacher, had her assignment change to teaching art at Taylorville High School.
--and Alyssa Ulferts, a 3rd grade teacher at Stonington Elementary, will become a 5th grade teacher at Taylorville Junior High School.
The Taylorville School Board Monday night hired 2 new staff members:
--Shelley Graves as a 7th grade language arts teacher at Taylorville Junior High School;
--and Crystal Anderson as a freshman volleyball coach at Taylorville High School.
Resignations accepted Monday night included:
--Marcia Callan, a 5th grade teacher at Taylorville High School;
--and Jeffrey Grizzell (griz-ZELL), a chemistry and physical science teacher at Taylorville High School. Both resignations are at the end of the 2015-16 school year.
2 requests for family leave were approved:
--Jennifer Cross at Memorial Elementary School, effective August 16th;
--and Joe Champley at Taylorville Junior High School, effective May 12th.
The Taylorville School Board also approved a resolution for termination of Lisa Cowell from the Memorial Elementary School cafeteria retroactive to April 23rd.
During the Treasurer's Report at Monday night's Taylorville School Board meeting, Superintendent Doctor Gregg Fuerstenau told the board and audience, that Senate Bill 231 to change the state school aid formula, was still awaiting a vote in the Senate. Fuerstenau also reported that recently released figures to fully fund the current state aid formula, would mean some 76-thousand dollars less for the Taylorville District next school year.
Fuerstenau complimented the local Citizens for Education committee that is working to improve school funding. The Taylorville Superintendent said the group has been working with other school districts in the effort to get more dollars for local schools, as well as testify at several Task Force hearings in Springfield where House Speaker Michael Madigan was in attendance.
Over half-a-million dollars worth of budgeted maintenance work on the air conditioning system and windows at Taylorville High School, were approved by the Taylorville School Board Monday night. Superintendent Doctor Greg Fuerstenau reviewed the project for board members ahead of last night's vote.
All of the work is to be completed before the start of the school year in August.
The Taylorville School Board approved meeting dates, registration and meal prices during their Monday night meeting. Monthly board meetings will continue to be the 2nd Monday of each month at 7 in the evening, except on October Eleventh due to the Monday Columbus Day holiday.
Registration and meal prices for the 2016-2017 school year remained the same as last school year.
Board members were also given a superintendent evaluation form to be turned into board secretary Jim Andruch by June First.
Superintendent Doctor Greg Fuerstenau presented the graduating senior list to the board for approval, which they did. Taylorville High School graduation is May 27th.
Fuerstenau also told the board the high school track project is set to begin the first week of June, with completion in a few weeks weather permitting.
He also told the board that the state hasn't come up with how or when they're going to take some 66-thousand dollars of personal property replacement tax overpayment they paid the Taylorville School District. Many other governmental entities in the state will also owe the state money due to what they claim was misallocation that began in 2014.
Fuerstenau also reported that the District's Students with Disabilities Focus Monitoring Plan that was required by the State Board of Education, was ready for the board to approve so that it could be submitted. The board OK'd the plan.
2 grants received by Taylorville Junior High School, were spotlighted during Monday night's Taylorville School Board meeting.
Taylorville Junior High School science teachers Pam DeWerff and Cindy Wagner, along with several junior high students (shown in above picture), showed board members how they used a 25-thousand dollar technology grant from Monsanto. The teachers and students told the board that they used Chromebooks, digital probes, 3-D software, and robotics all purchased with the grant, to retreive and anlyze water samples from local ponds. Board members were impressed with the students' work and their presentation.
It was also announced at the Monday night board meeting, that Taylorville Junior High School was also the receipient of an 800-dollar E-Learning Grant from Consolidated Communications.
University of Illinois Christian County Extension Master Gardner Gwen Podeski was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Monday morning. Gwen talked about how there are particular gardening plants that like different kinds of soil temperatures.
Podeski mentioned how sometimes some plants don’t like going into wet, cool soil, and how they may just rot in the ground, and how sometimes you’re better off waiting to plant those summer plants later on in the year. Podeski also encouraged gardeners to get out and see what’s growing in some of the community gardens.
Podeski said how it’s a good idea to keep several gardening season books on hand for quick reference on when is a good time to plant certain plants.
Nutrition Educator with the St. Louis Dairy Council Joyce Fikery was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Monday Morning. Fikery talked about how people often don’t think of dairy products when thinking about buying local products at their grocery store.
Fikery stated how often times shoppers are unaware of where the milk they buy in the grocery store comes from, and how that can sometimes be caused by a lack of interaction between local dairy farmers, and the consumers of their product.
Fikery did mention how you can easily check what state your milk was produced in by checking the code printed on the top of the milk jug.
The Taylorville School Board meets tonight in regular session at the Administration Education Center, 512 West Spresser at 7 o'clock.
Major items on the agenda include payment of monthly bills, second reading of board policy on a host of items, setting school board meeting dates for the upcoming school year, as well as registration and meal prices.
The Taylorville School Board will also consider the district focus monitoring plan, direct the Superintendent to prepare a tentative budget for the upcoming school year, and consider a list of seniors for graduation.
The board will do a superintendent evaluation and hear the superintendent's report.
Again that meeting starts at 7 tonight at the Taylorville Administration Center. We'll have a full report on tonight's meeting tomorrow on Regional Radio News and taylorvilledailynews.com.
2 major announcements came out of Friday night's Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet.
The first was that an Effingham-based group of doctors are the ones constructing the new Prompt Care facility at Illinois Routes 29 and 104. Grunloh Construction of Effingham is the general contractor for the project, and it's expected to be open in August of this year.
The 2nd was that Jimmy John's is coming to Taylorville. No opening date is known yet, but it will be co-located inside the Family Video building on West Spresser.
Both business openings were announced Friday night by Chamber C-E-O Patty Hornbuckle.
The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce held its 109th Annual Banquet and Awards of Excellence Friday night at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.
Following dinner cooked by the Moose and served by the Taylorville Tornado Cheerleaders, the Chamber presented their annual awards.
And, the Citizen of the Year award went to long-time Taylorville businessman Ed Downs, owner of the Best for Less on the Square, who has been instrumental in efforts in Downtown Taylorville including the weekly Farmers Market. Pictured above is Downs (center); Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle (left); and Bob Steiner (right) who read Downs' nomination to the crowd.
Downs talked with Regional Radio News after his award, saying that he's had 2 careers in the community—the first as long-time sales manager at the former Sangamon Card Company, and the 2nd as owner of the Best for Less on the square the past 14 years.
The Boss of the Year Award went to Rick Bonitzer, C-E-O of Credit Collection Partners.
The Volunteer of the Year Award went to Bob Dunn for his efforts on behalf of the Chamber board, the Chamber's Spring Swing golf outing, and Chillifest. Pictured above are Dunn (right); Greg Hornbuckle (left), who is Chillifest chair and who read Bob's nomination; and Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle (center).
Guest speaker was Cheryl Mitchell, the interim Executive Director of the Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship, who spoke about the “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” program which began in Christian County this year, has changed the live of high school seniors. The program, which began in Effingham a few years ago, is now in 37 communities in 5 states, teaching students critical skills they need to establish businesses in their communities.
The Taylorville Chamber held its annual Kentucky Derby Hat Contest at Friday night's annual banquet. The hat with the best color award went to Megan Bryant (left). The most creative hat was worn by Paula Dunn (middle), and the most stunning hat was worn by Shelly Gregoroff (right).
The Chamber 50-50 raffle, with 27-hundred going to the winner, was won by Susie Montgomery.
The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce held its 109th Annual Banquet and Awards of Excellence Friday night at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.
Following dinner cooked by the Moose and served by the Taylorville Tornado Cheerleaders, the Chamber presented their annual awards.
The Boss of the Year Award went to Rick Bonitzer, C-E-O of Credit Collection Partners. Pictured above is Bontizer (center); Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle (left); and Megan Bryant of Credit Collection Partners, who announced the award.
He spoke with Regional Radio News following the banquet about winning his award.
The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce held its 109th Annual Banquet and Awards of Excellence Friday night at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.
Following dinner cooked by the Moose and served by the Taylorville Tornado Cheerleaders, the Chamber presented their annual awards.
Guest speaker was Cheryl Mitchell, the interim Executive Director of the Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship, who spoke about the “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” program which began in Christian County this year, has changed the live of high school seniors. She told Regional Radio News after her remarks, that the Magic of C-E-O lies in the community investing in its people.
And, Mitchell added that the C-E-O program makes students matter.
Chamber C-E-O Patty Hornbuckle thanked all those who attended the Taylorville Chamber annual banquet.
Law enforcement agencies were called to Illinois Route 29 south of Owaneco just after 12 noon on Friday, where a 2 vehicle accident occurred. It's not known if there were any injuries, but one car was reportedly in the ditch. Stay tuned to Regional Radio and taylorvilledailynews.com for more information.
Freddie Fry, director of the Shelby County Office of Tourism, was one of Jim Finks' guests during the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown Shelbyville studios on Friday. Fry talked about this weekend culminating National Travel and Tourism Week, which celebrates travel in the United States.
Fry said that tourism is one of America's largest industries, and there are many ways to get tourism information today.
And, Fry added that there are several events coming up in Shelby County in coming weeks.
For complete information on events in Shelby County, go to lakeshelbyville-dot-com.
Vonda McConnell, office manager for the Shelbyville Area Chamber of Commerce, was a guest on Friday's NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown Shelbyville studios. Host Jim Finks talked to McConnell about their upcoming golf outing on May 20th, which is the Chamber's biggest fund raiser.
And, McConnell says the Chamber takes very good care of those participating in the annual golf outing.
Registration forms for the Shelbyville Chamber golf outing are available at the Chamber office or by calling McConnell at 774-2221.
Mike Mouse of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, was one of Jim Finks' guests during the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown Shelbyville studios on Friday. Mouse talked about work done at Wood Lake just south of Sullivan, which is part of Lake Shelbyville.
Mouse added that fisheries in the state are blossoming.
Mouse says fishing on Central Illinois lakes continues to improve.
Sue Wilson, a volunteer at the Christian County Y-M-C-A, is our newest honoree of the Miller Media Group Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry “Big Smile for the Community” award.
Andrea Bach of the Y nominated Wilson for being a tireless volunteer for the Y's youth basketball program since 2008. Wilson spoke with Regional Radio News about her work at the Y.
To nominate someone for the Miller Media Group Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry “Big Smile for the Community” award, send an e-mail with your nomination to bigsmile-at-randyradio-dot-com.
The Illinois Senate this afternoon passed legislation that would direct more critical funding to universities, community colleges, and students who receive MAP grants during the state’s ongoing budget impasse.
This legislation, Senate Bill 2048, is in addition to Senate Bill 2059, which provided some funding for higher education and was signed by Governor Rauner April 25th.
Senate Bill 2048 would fund in the Regional Radio listening area:
$90.6 million for Community Colleges
$159.4 million for the University of Illinois
$11.7 million for Eastern Illinois University
$19.6 million for Illinois State University
and $46 million for MAP grants
CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Patty Hornbuckle was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Thursday morning. Hornbuckle talked about the upcoming Chamber Annual Banquet, and mentioned how this year’s banquet probably won’t be a sold out event, and that the Chamber will be looking to revamp the event in the future.
Hornbuckle also shed some light on several of the upcoming events the Chamber has planned.
The CEO Trade Show is a free event that’s open to the public with the goal of showing off the work that the students involved in the Christian County CEO Program have done.
University of Illinois Extension Educator Chris Casey was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Thursday Morning. Casey talked about how there have been many changes at the University of Illinois Extension has undergone many chances over the years, and how those changes have led to many good things at the U of I Extension.
Casey said how the changes at the U of I Extension have the staff excited about the services offered by the school. Casey talked about how the amount of programs offered at the school has greatly increased over the years.
For more information contact the U of I Extension’s Christian County office at 287-7246.
Illinois State Police District 18 is investigating a single vehicle crash that occurred Sunday morning that resulted in the death of a Nokomis man. 31 year old Justin Gunderson was travelling eastbound on IL-16 when his 1997 GMC Truck left the roadway to the right for an unknown reason. After Gunderson’s truck left the roadway, it struck a concrete culvert causing the vehicle to roll. Gunderson was ejected from the vehicle, and pronounced deceased on the scene. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash. The crash is currently under investigation by the Illinois State Police Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit.
Taylorville High School was on lockdown today as the Taylorville Police Department and Christian County Sheriff’s department searched the building and parking lot with a team of drug sniffing dogs. Taylorville High School Principle Bob Richardson informed Regional Radio News that the search wasn’t due to any sort of safety concerns of the students, and was simply part of a routine process that the school does several times a year. Richardson also mentioned that the students did a wonderful job of handling the routine checks.
Mike Crews, Christian County Emergency Manager was the recipient of the Coordinator of the Year award from the Illinois Emergency Services Management Association. Crews recently told Regional Radio News a little bit about that award.
The Illinois Emergency Services Management Association looks at a variety of different attributes of the various county emergency managers throughout the state. Crews said what some of those attributes are.
Crews also said that he feels honored to be recognized with other previous winners of the award.
Vanessa Wiseman, Fund Development Manager for the Greater Illinois American Diabetes Association was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Wednesday morning. Wiseman shared how Wednesday was national “Get Fit Don’t Sit” day, and how the day is a reminder for everyone to regularly get up and get moving to help keep various health issues at bay. Wiseman talked about how many offices are implementing different methods to try to help with the health of its employees.
Wiseman also mentioned how there are many things you can do to help get your heartrate up where you don’t even have to leave your desk chair to do.
Wiseman said that the idea for a healthy heart is to stay active, and that doing several small things throughout the day can help.
WTIM Investment Professional Steve Henry was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Wednesday morning. Henry talked about a recent meeting he had attended and how we usually end up focusing on the wrong things when investing.
Henry said how one of the things Buffett mentioned at the meeting was how someone’s inactivity on an investment could be their biggest asset, and how many tend to have issues when it comes to letting investments simply run their course.
Henry went on to say that one thing that makes Warren Buffet such a good investor, is the fact that Buffet often ignores what others are focusing on, since most investors focus on the short term investment.
Christian County CEO students appeared on the various Morning Shows on the Miller Media Group radio stations this morning. The students talked about their 9 months in the program, and their upcoming Trade Show May 19th from 6 to 7:30pm at Lincoln Land Community College's Taylorville campus. All 9 students will show off their businesses at the show, which is free and open to the public.
CEO students Jessica Winter (left) and Myah Herbord, appeared on the Morning Show on WRAN groovy 97.3. The pair also were guest hosts for the daily "Lettermania" contest.
CEO students Sophie Tremblay (left) and Luke Puckett, Jr., appeared on the newcountry.fm Morning Show with Neil Hohenstein.
CEO students Kyle Kuntzman (center) and Ben Robinson, appeared on the WMKR Genuine Country 94.3 Morning Show with host Danny Russell.
CEO students Kenneth Alcala (left) and Luke Puckett, appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to talk about the program and the upcoming Trade Show May 19th.
Kenneth Alcala and Luke Puckett, two of the nine students involved in the Christian County CEO Program were guests on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Wednesday Morning. Puckett said how he was nervous going into the CEO Program, but his experiences with it have helped him tremendously.
Puckett said that he will be attending Eastern Illinois University to study history with hopes of becoming a history professor at the college level. Alcala mentioned how the CEO Program gave him a better idea about how a business is run, and made him really think about what he’d like to do in the future.
Alcala mentioned that he hasn’t yet decided yet if he’d like to attend college, or jump right into the business world. The Christian County CEO Program seeks to teach students about all of the values necessary for successful business ownership and entrepreneurial experience. For more information on the Christian County CEO Program visit Christian County CEO.com.
Construction has begun near the intersection of Routes 104 and 29 for a new Prompt Care Facility. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton told Regional Radio News recently a little bit about what he knows about the project.
Mayor Brotherton did say that although there isn’t a known timetable for when the project will be completed, the group working on the project has a reputation for completing their work quickly.
Mayor Brotherton also said there is talk of another project that could be done by the same group, however nothing has been verified as of yet.
Congressman Rodney Davis was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Tuesday Morning. Congressman Davis talked about some of the difficulties of working in Washington compared to back home.
Davis talked a little bit about the growing divide in Washington between the two parties. Davis discussed how we need to make sure that the federal government is recognizing its victories and continuing to work to make progress.
Congressman Davis said how sometimes it gets frustrating trying to please everybody, but did say that there is progress going on in Washington regarding federal spending.
Christian County TRIAD for Seniors will be teaming up with Main Cross Auto Service in Taylorville on May 7th to provide free vehicle inspections for seniors on May 7th from 9am until noon. Richard Peters, Director of the Christian County TRIAD told Regional Radio News what the goal is for the event.
Peters said that the event was created since the TRIAD felt that this was an area that’s often overlooked for senior needs.
The event will be a first come first serve event, with refreshments available for those who show up while they wait for the inspection of their cars to finish.
Brad Davis, Owner of the Taylorville, Pana, Shelbyville, and Vandalia McDonald’s restaurants was a guest on the WTIM Morning Show Tuesday Morning. Davis talked about some of the current deals going on at McDonalds.
Davis did warn however that if you’re going to be visiting the Taylorville location in the near future, that there will be construction going on in the east side of the parking lot.
Davis said that the construction will lead to a much smoother ride through the Taylorville McDonald’s parking lot.
NEWSTALK WTIM will be moving dial positions on the FM dial in both Christian and Shelby Counties on June First.
In Christian County, WTIM will move from 96-point-3 to 96-point-one. In Shelby County, WTIM will move up the dial from 94-point-7 to 107-point-5.
Both frequency changes will improve the stations' signal in both counties.
Listeners are reminded to “reset their preset” on June First to hear NEWSTALK WTIM at their new FM dial positions. WTIM will continue to be heard on the AM dial on the station's BIG 870 signal daytime across Central and Northern Illinois, and streamed on-line at taylorvilledailynews-dot-com.
A popular syndicated show from the 1980's, taking listeners back to the 1960's, will begin airing on WRAN groovy 97-point-3 this Sunday morning at 9.
The show, “Live from the 60's”, began in 1987 produced by M.G. Kelly and long-time Boss radio DJ “The Real Don Steele”. The 2 joined forces and was an instant hit and ran for nearly seven years on over 200 radio stations.
The show, hosted by Steele, entered a time warp to the 1960s. From there, the music and events of the decade became present day.
Steele passed away in August of 1997, but the syndicated show he hosted has been revived and will now be heard Sunday mornings on WRAN groovy 97-point-3.
WRAN president Randal J. Miller said he is very excited that the show is being syndicated again and will air on WRAN. Miller aired the show when it was first syndicated in 1987.
Miller added that the neat thing about the show, is that it's done just as if you were listening to Top 40 Radio in the 1960's.
The show premieres on WRAN this Sunday, and will be heard every Sunday from 9 in the morning til noon.
The Taylorville City Council made quick work of a number of motions, during their 45-minute meeting Monday night at City Hall.
The Council unanimously appointed Scott McClure to replace Drew Stephenson on the Taylorville Planning Commission, for a term to expire in May of 2019. McClure was sworn in by Taylorville City Clerk Pam Peabody after the vote.
Taylorville Aldermen Monday night approved the annexation of properties at 1512 South Michels, 1800 S. Houston, 3912 Lincoln Trail and 3903 Kennedy Road, into the City. They OK'd an ordinance regarding the liability of a property owner for building sewer repairs; they forwarded the proposed Fiscal Year 2017 Health and Building budget to the Finance Committee; and passed a motion directing Taylorville City Attorney Rocci (rocky) Romano to amend the current Liquor License Ordinance that would allow a drug store with a restaurant to be eligible for a liquor license with video gaming.
The Taylorville Council Monday night OK'd contributing 3-thousand dollars to the Taylorville Optimist Club for the 4th of July Fireworks Display with 25-hundred coming from the hotel-motel tax to help promote tourism, and 500-dollars coming from the General Fund and with additional assistance from the City if necessary up to 10-thousand dollars to meet the 3-year commitment.
Taylorville Aldermen Monday night voted to direct the Mayor not to sign the Releast of Property Damage Claims for the damage of April 21st, 2015 at Illinois Route 48 and Lincoln Trail; and they waived competitive bidding and purchased to have installed, 3 "Little John Digester" units and 3 or 4 loggers costing no more than 170-thousand dollars with the funds coming from the Non-Home Rule Sales Tax Excess Account, to lessen sewer odors near lift stations.
Aldermen approved the Fiscal Year 2017 Lake Department, Water Department, and Fire and Police Commission Budgets and forwarded them to the City Treasurer for further refinement; they approved the Treasurer's Report as presented; they forwarded the Fiscal Year 2017 Municipal Band and Municipal Buildings Budgets to the Finance Committee; accepted the muni band's concert dates for 2016; and rehired all the muni band's existing staff including Jim Smith as Band Director, Reggie Hohenstein as Band Librarian, and Jan Phillips as Band Manager.
The Taylorville Council Monday night approved a special events permit for the Chamber of Commerce to hold a Blood Drive May 20th from 10am to 3pm on the southeast corner of the square; they OK'd closing Cherokee Street from Gandy to 2nd Street for Memorial Day Services May 30th; and approved a special events permit for the Taylorville Kiwanis Club to hold their annual Peanut Days fund-raiser September 23rd and 24th on the streets of Taylorville.
The Council approved allowing City Engineer Joe Greene to start the process for federal funds for constructions and engineering of Walnut, Shumway, West Main Cross and Cheney Streets, and directed Taylorville City Treasurer Jackie Nation to find 300-thousand dollars to fund the Cherokee Street project, and if any Motor Fuel Tax funds from the East Main Cross project are left, they'll also be used on the Cherokee Street project.
Aldermen directed Taylorville Street Superintendent Dick Wiseman to purchase a 2009 Carryall street legal golf cart, for spraying weeds along boulevards and brick streets. The unit will come from Battery Specialists Plus Golf Cars costing some 35-hundred dollars. Aldermen also allowed Wiseman to research the purchase of a new backhoe for the street department.
The Taylorville Council last night also approved paying almost 334-thousand dollars in bills.
The question of erecting 4-way stop signs at the intersection of England and Morton Streets in Taylorville, created some discussion at Monday night's Taylorville City Council meeting.
The ordinance creating the 4-way stop, made it out of the Street and Sewer Committee by a 2 to one vote. Committee chair Earl Walters made a motion to make that intersection a 4-way stop, and after making the motion, indicated that he was the one in committee that voted against it.
Walters visited with Regional Radio News after last night's meeting sharing what he told the Council Monday night.
Several aldermen expressed concern over the high number of stop signs already on city streets.
After the discussion, a motion to table the ordinance creating the 4-way stop at England and Morton failed 5 to 3. A motion to pass the ordinance failed 6 to 2. Aldermen directed the police department to make themselves more visible in that area of town in hopes of slowing speeders.
The remediation process has begun at the Taylorville Public Library. Gary Merker, President of the Board of Trustees at the Taylorville Public Library recently told Regional Radio News how the Library was given a detailed quote for the costs of the project, and how no matter what needs to be done, those costs will not exceed a certain amount.
Merker said how it’s believed that the mold issues stem from the recent roofing replacement at the Library. Merker said how it rained before work was complete on the roof, leading to water getting into screw holes left over from previous work that were not yet covered up. Work is expected to be completed towards the end of May, with the Library hopefully re-opening shortly after. Merker did state how the Library doesn’t expect the work to affect the upcoming Summer Reading Program.
In response to the closure, the Library Board voted unanimously to continue to pay library staff based on their normal work-week wages.
Cavalry Baptist Church Representative Melissa Bonnie was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Monday morning. Bonnie discussed a trip the church is planning to Guatemala, and how the group is holding fundraisers to help finance the trip. Bonnie was asked what the primary goal is for the trip.
Bonnie said how the group will be hosting a rummage sale fundraiser, and explained how it’s not your typical rummage sale.
The rummage sale will be taking place May 7th from 9am until 3pm at the Cavalry Baptist Church gymnasium.
Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Monday morning. Gates was asked about how many people in a days’ time attend the Christian County Senior Center, and said how that number typically varies from day to day.
Gates mentioned how it’s a wonderful time for both young and old when high school students visit the Senior Center
For more information on the Christian County Senior Center, give them a call at 824-4263.
Several parents of students currently involved in the Christian County CEO Program were guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Monday morning. Chris and Karen Kuntzman, parents of Kyle Kuntzman said how a pizza party at school lead to Kyle joining the CEO program.
Jennifer Moss, mother of Jessica Winter said how there wasn’t much concern over how the CEO Program would affect Jessica’s college options, stating how Jessica had already mostly met the graduation requirements anyway. Winter also said how she saw the benefit of the Christian County CEO Program.
The program seeks to teach students about all of the values necessary for successful business ownership and entrepreneurial experience. For more information on the Christian County CEO Program visit Christian County CEO.com.
Neil Hohenstein of Taylorville has joined the Miller Media Group as a full-time advertising account manager, as well as continuing to host the NEWCountry.FM morning show on WSVZ 98.3 and NEW Country 104.1.
The Taylorville City Council met in regular session last night at the Taylorville Municipal Building. One of the major items of the night was the resignation of Alderman Rocky Moore. Mayor Brotherton made a short comment on how he, as well as many of the other Aldermen was sad to see Alderman Moore go, but understood that other things sometimes hold a higher priority in life. There was a motion for Alderman Moore’s resignation, which passed 7-1. Mayor Brotherton did ask City Attorney Romano that if the motion hadn’t passed, if Alderman Moore was obligated to stay on the council. City Attorney Romano clarified that that wasn’t the case.
The Newstalk WTIM and People’s Bank and Trust Students of the Month for May were presented their awards recently. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes.
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Mike Crews, Christian County Emergency Manager was the recipient of the Coordinator of the Year award from the Illinois Emergency Services Management Association. Crews recently told Regional Radio News a little bit about that award.
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