The 2016 Illinois State Chili Cook-Off took place on Saturday July 30^th at the Beer Tent at the Christian County Fairgrounds. The winners were announced for each category, with the winner for the best salsa going to Robert Seurferer.

The winner for the best Verde Chili was Vicky Harris.

And the winner for the best Red Chili went to Mike Goodman.

Winners at the Illinois State Chili Cook-Off qualify for the world championship chili cook off held on October 21^st-23^rd at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada.

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner on Friday signed Senate Bill 2228 which in effect de-criminalizes cannabis.

The bill specifically makes cannabis possession of 10 grams or less, punishable by fines but not jail time.

The bill takes effect immediately.

According to the Marijuana Policy Project, previously in Illinois, possession of up to 2-point-5 grams of marijuana was a class C misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to 15-hundred dollars. 

Possession of 2-point-5 to 10 grams was a class B misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to 15-hundred dollars. More than 100 Illinois communities had already removed local criminal penalties for simple marijuana possession.

Illinois is now the 21st state in the nation, in addition to the District of Columbia, to remove the threat of jail time for simple marijuana possession.
 

As democrats assembled in Philadelphia this week, those from Illinois spent plenty of time trying to figure out who might be willing to run for Governor. The rumor mill has churned out the name of US Senator Dick Durbin in the past. The long serving senior Senator is fairly quick to dismiss the conversation. 



For the now the potential list of Democratic challengers for Governor is just that a list of potential names. 

Getting caught by the police with a small amount of marijuana will now land you a stiff fine but little else. The Governor today signed companion legislation from the House and Senate that will decriminalize pot possession and change how long some criminal offenders have to wait before applying for some jobs. The Senate bill sets a state wide maximum penalty of a $200 fine for possession of less than 10 grams of pot and then automatic expungement of the item from an arrest record once the fine has been paid. 
 

The House bill takes steps to eliminate the lifetime ban on employment and reduced time frames of prohibited hiring for a number of non-violent offenses for people that want to work in schools. The State Board of Education worked with law makers to craft the legislation. 

The Shelbyville Lions Club came to the area in 1965, and that's cause for celebration because not many Lions Clubs are able to say they have been around for more than 50 years. The Lions Club is group of people looking to serve the area and do what they can to help the community and make it a better place to live. Wayne Gray, member of the Shelby County Lions Club, said they have some events still to come this year, including their sweet corn sale that is a major fundraiser for the organization.

Gray said the Lions Club will then hold a steak fry after to thank the community for the support and buying the sweet corn.

The Steak Fry is coming August 6th with serving times from 4:30-7:00. Gray appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Although the summer is coming to an end, the Summer festivities in neighboring communities continue on. In Findlay, FLIP or Findlay Long-term Improvement Program, is holding fundraisers to continue their goal of helping the community. Carolyn Alderson, member of FLIP, said the group has a fundraiser coming up in the next month, the Fourth Annual Findlay 5k Run/Walk.

Registration forms to participate can be found at findlayillinois.net, and there is a fee of $25 that will go to helping the community.

The town of Windsor is also holding a major celebration. The Windsor Harvest Picnic is the longest running festival in Illinois where this year will be their 120th celebration. Maria Shafer, member of WHAT, or Windsor Happenings Around Town, said that this celebration is a three day long event packed full of events for people of all interests and ages.

The full schedule of events for the 120th annual Windsor Harvest Picnic can be found at windsorillinois.net. Shafer and Alderson appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

There is a new animal control facility in Shelby County because of the county's ability to work with other community service organizations. This new facility is bigger, cleaner and will be better for the animals, visitors, employees, and volunteers. Kay Kearney, member of the Shelby County Board, said one great benefit of this facility is that it is set to invite the public in and give them a space to meet and play with animals to see if they would like to adopt one.

Kearney said one thing the Animal Control Facility is always looking for is volunteers to pitch in, as well as donations to help keep the animals comfortable while they are there and while they are being transported.

To adopt an animal or for more information, call Shelby County Animal Control at 217-774-4932. Kearney appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Fire Department has released an update with more details regarding the fire at PS Printing Thursday evening. At 6:21 PM the Fire Department was called to 101 E Main Cross for a structure fire. Upon arrival, crews were met with moderate smoke, and the PS Printing store windows were black with smoke. The windows were taken out, and firefighters were met with heavy smoke conditions at the location. A first alarm was requested, and a request was put in for a second ladder truck, because of the heat and building area. Firefighters entered the building to attack the blaze, and had a difficult time finding the seat of the fire due to building construction. Fire crews overhauled and vented the building.

Extensive heat and smoke damage was received to the first floor of the building. The second floor had moderate smoke damage. The point of origin for the fire was found in the printing area, but the cause is currently undetermined. Total loss of contents and property is estimated at close to $200,000.

No civilian injuries were reported, and 1 firefighter was transported to Taylorville Memorial Hospital to be treated for heat exhaustion. The occupant of the upstairs apartment was also displaced due to the fire. Stonington, Owaneco, Pana, Edinburgh, Assumption, as well as Midland Fire departments assisted with the call.

The 4H portion of the Christian County Fair is finished and the kids can now take a rest from all of the work they have put in to raising their livestock or making their projects. Many kids walked away with trophies and ribbons that were available because of a donation by Monsanto. Alisha Gullidge, 4H Youth and Development Coordinator, from the University of Illinois Extension said she was very thankful for all of the donations and support they have gotten from the community and businesses to help make a great 4H portion of the fair.

Gulldige said how she's very proud and happy for her youth leadership team who came together and worked hard to make the fair fun and rewarding for everyone participating.

The 4H portion of the fair wrapped up last night after the 4H auction and final award giveaways. Gullidge recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair. 

A fire broke out at P-S Printing on the northeast corner of the Taylorville square, around 6:15 Thursday evening. 

Taylorville Fire and Police crews immediately responded to the fire, which appeared to have caused extensive damage to the first floor of the 2-floor structure.  The fire did not apparently make it to the 2nd floor. 

The north and east sides of the Taylorville square, along with the 100 block of East Main Cross, were all blocked off while fire crews fought the fire and smoke.

P-S Printing has been on the Taylorville square since 1978.

Taylorville Native and United States Congressman Rodney Davis is questioning how united the Democratic Party Really is. Democratic Presidential nominee Hillary Clinton is working with a campaign slogan of “We’re Stronger Together”, and Davis is questioning whether or not the party really is together as the Democratic National Convention comes to a close.

On the unity front, Congressman Davis is one of the Congressional Republicans who have continued to stand behind the GOP Presidential Nominee, Donald Trump.

The Christian County Prevention Coalition held their regular meeting Wednesday evening at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium. State Representative Avery Bourne was a guest speaker at the meeting. Dennis Metsker with the Christian County Prevention Coalition spoke with Regional Radio News and shared what Representative Bourne talked about with the CCPC.

The Christian County Prevention Coalition also has a town hall meeting coming up next month.

For more information on the Christian County Prevention Coalition, visit them online at cc-pc.org.

Wednesday marked the day of Livestock Shows on the 4H side of the Christian County Fair where 4H-ers displayed the animals they've been raising and also showed how well they knew their animals. These animals could be swine, goats, sheep or cattle, and awards were given throughout the day for best breeds and best showmen. Reed Heberling, Future Leadership President of the Christian County Youth Leadership Team, and member of Mt. Auburn Wrestlers 4H, won an award during the swine show and explained the benefits of showing animals.

Heberling only has one year left in 4H but he said that he plans to keep helping and working and hopes to watch it continue to grow.

Heberling recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair. 

During the 4H side of the Christian County Fair the General Show was one of the major highlights, where kids make various projects, depending on the subject they choose. These subjects could be visual arts, cooking, public speaking, and much more. Brooke Bates, Ambassador of the Christian County 4H Youth Leadership Team, and member of 4H Clover Club, took part in the general show this year and participated in both Visual Arts and Interior Design.

Bates said there is a big difference between how projects are judged at the county level and at the state level.

Bates was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair.

The Shelbyville Rotary Club held their weekly meeting held at the Shelbyville Memorial Hospital. This week’s program coordinator Brian Green introduced this week’s guest speaker, Josh Shellenbarger, who is CEO and President of Shelby Electric Cooperative.

Shellenbarger presented an electronic presentation and reviewed current electrical and energy issues, highlighting the problems and opportunities of Illinois and the immediate surrounding states. One problem Shellenbarger pointed out was how 3 of Illinois’ 10 biggest power producing plants are possibly planning to close in the next two to three years, and how should this happen, it would reduce the state’s ability to produce energy to the point where Illinois will be importing energy from other states. Shellenbarger also presented the push for clean energy to be a larger part of the total mix of energy in the future.

Above:  Alicia Gullidge (left) of University of Illinois Extension Christian County, announces the awarding of the annual Christian County Ag Group $500 Scholarship, to Mary Kate Curtin (right), during the group's annual Ag Day Luncheon at the Christian County Fair.

The Christian County Ag Group awarded a 500-dollar scholarship on Thursday during their annual Ag Day Luncheon at the Christian County Fair.  The scholarship, going to a deserving student pursuing agriculture in college, went to Mary Kate Curtin.

This marks several years that the Christian County Ag Group has supported local high school graduates that are pursuing an agriculture degree in college.

Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans has released the preliminary autopsy results for 33 year old Luis Delacruz Hernandez of Taylorville. The autopsy results show that Hernandez died from multiple blunt injuries sustained when he was struck by a semi-tractor trailer truck. Toxicology testing is pending. Hernandez was pronounced dead on Wednesday morning in Taylorville Township on Route 29 a quarter mile south of Pershing Road. The investigation is being conducted by Illinois State Police, Illinois State Police Traffic Reconstructionist, and the Christian County Coroner’s Office. 

Advanced EyeCare in Taylorville has informed Regional Radio News that their phone lines are currently down until further notice. Stay tuned to Regional Radio news and Taylorvilledailynews.com for further updates.

The Taylorville Municipal Band held their annual children's concert last night on the lawn of Hershey Tower. It was a great night of giveaways and music. From a trumpet solo and clarinet duet, to drum features, guitar singalongs, and a student led dixieland band, the band and audience enjoyed the annual event. Here, the municipal band shares the stage with the Rylie Bourne family. The Taylorville municipal band plays free concerts every Wednesday throughout summer. Their next concert will be held Wednesday, August 3rd, at the Hershey Tower Lawn. 

CNB Bank and Trust have been nationally recognized as a top 25 AG loan producer. Shelley Singleton, Director of Marketing at CNB Bank and Trust spoke with Regional Radio News recently and explained how they earned that recognition.

Singleton said how CNB Bank and Trust is very involved in the agricultural industry.

Shawn Davis, CNB President and CEO also recently commented on the award stating how CNB Bank and Trust is honored to be included in the group of the Top 25 Ag Loan Producers, and are thrilled to be the only Illinois Bank on the list.

The Christian County Fair Pageants took place Tuesday night where the new Jr. Miss Christian County is Madison Lush, who is also part of the Lads and Lasses 4H Club. Lush was talked into trying out the pageants this year and fell in love with everything about them. Lush said  she can tell what they can do to help her better her future.

Lush was not only involved in the pageants at the fair, but she also had three projects in the general show where she won blue ribbons for all of them and is even going to state for one of them.

Lush recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair. 

The Swine Show started the 4H livestock shows Wednesday morning and Regional Radio news was able to talk to one of the 4h-ers who shows just about every animal at the Christian County Fair. 14 year old Tanner Mickey who's with the 4H Clover Club has grown up on a livestock farm, and enjoys working with the animals. Mickey gave some insight on what goes into getting a pig ready for show, and what pigs he and his brother were showing.

Mickey also shows sheep and cows and hopes the skills he's learning through 4H will help him take over and succeed running his family's farm one day.

Mickey was recently on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair.

The 4H side of the Christian County Fair was all about the livestock shows Wednesday where shows were taking place throughout the entire day. There were 4 main animals shows including swine, sheep, goat, and cattle. 11 year old Cole Paulek who's part of the Old Stonington 4H Club participates in the goat livestock shows and uses his rivalry with his brother to push him to be the best.

Paulek also competes in the culinary competitions in 4H, and has hopes of being a chef when he finishes school.

Paulek is excited that 4H is able to teach him and prepare him for the future especially if he is able to get one of the scholarships 4H offers. Paulek recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair. 

Lakeland College has begun accepting applications from students to become a Student Ambassador for the school. The prestigious position includes representing the school at events such as college fairs and at high school visits. Ambassadors also conduct campus tours and assist with special functions sponsored by the college. Ambassadors who complete the requirements of the program will also receive a $500 scholarship from Lake Land College for their year of service.

To be considered for the position, you must be an on campus student for at least half-time or full time for both the fall and spring semesters during the year of application, and have a Lake Land College cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 as calculated by the college. Applications must be received by September 2^nd, and interviews will be conducted on September 6^th through the 9^th. You can get the application materials on Lake Land’s website, or to request a printed copy of the application, call 217-234-5254.

The Christian County Fair Pagent competition took place last night at the grandstand. This years winners include:

2016 Little Miss Christian County Paige Mollet of Owaneco

2016 Jr. Miss Christian County Madison Lush of Morrisonville

2016 Miss Christian County Myah Herbord of Pana

More details and photos can be found by clicking on the Christian County fair icon at Taylorvilledailynews.com

Illinois Route 29 was closed south of Taylorville Wednesday Morning after a crash that killed a pedestrian from Taylorville.

A preliminary investigation has indicated that Jesse R. Mayfield Jr. from Avon, Indiana was driving a truck southbound on Illinois Route 29 near Pershing Road in Christian County when he came upon a pedestrian laying in the road way. Mayfield Jr. reported to police that he was unable to avoid the pedestrian, and struck him.

That pedestrian was Taylorville resident Luis Delacruz Hernandez of Taylorville. Hernandez was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Christian County Coroner’s Office. Mayfield was not injured during the crash, and the crash is pending investigation.

The Taylorville Park Board met in regular session on Monday night at the Manners Park Board Room. The meeting was attended by several members of the community representing various organizations that had proposals for the Park Board, or had issues they wanted to discuss with the board. One of which was Bobbie Durbin from Computer Techniques Inc., who had a proposal for the Taylorville Park Board.

Durbin also stated how CTI wanted to propose the installation of cameras around Manners Park, and potentially provide video streaming services for little league games. The Board intends to discuss the matter further, and invited Durbin back to next month’s meeting to further discuss the proposal.

Landmark of Taylorville has begun remodeling of its showroom.  Sales manager Jason Johnson tells Regional Radio News, that several sales offices have been refurbished, and new flooring is being installed in the showroom where new cars and trucks are on display.

Landmark recently added the G-M-C franchise to their GM line-up which includes Chrvrolet, Buick, and Cadillac brands.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the executive director of United Way of Christian County, at their weekly meeting on Tuesday at Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Susan Lawrence has been on the job just over one year, and told the Kiwanis Club that her agency raises money and benefits some 27 non-profit agencies that provide services to Christian County residents.

Lawrence added that their annual fund raising drive will start in September.
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. 

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a burglary that occurred in Taylorville sometime during the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 29. On that day, a person or persons unknown made entry into B & R Marine, located on Route 104.   While on the property, the unknown subject or subjects entered into several boats parked on the property.  Multiple items were taken including: a battery, a depth finder, and seats.

Please contact Crimestoppers if you have any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons.  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. 

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

The Christian County Prevention Coalition has announced that Illinois House Representative Avery Bourne (R-Raymond) will be their guest speaker at their meeting on Wednesday. The meeting will take place at 4:30PM at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium.

The coalition encourages community leaders, youth advocates, parents, and teachers to join in the group’s mission and purpose of a community free of abuse by our youth of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco. The group pushes for education, support of programs that reduce the risk or enhance protection of the community, as well as advocating for changes in local policies that decrease the risk of local drug use.

Key members of the Coalition will also be recognized for their service, and core members will be highlighting key initiatives currently underway in Christian County. For more information on the Christian County Prevention Coalition, visit their website at cc-pc.org.

The University of Illinois Extension is hosting a Pickling program in addition to more jams and jellies classes in August. Lisa Peterson, Nutrition and Wellness Educator with the University of Illinois Extension spoke with Regional Radio News and shared what the Pickling class is all about.

Peterson said how you can sign up for this class as well as other classes that the extension has coming up.

The Pickling class as well as the Jams and Jellies class are taking place on August 27^th. You can register for either class either at the U of I Extension website, or by calling their office at 287-7246.

July’s Big Smile of the Community Award was awarded recently. July’s winner was Donna Castelli, who works at Taylorville Memorial Hospital in the gift shop, who says that her favorite part of working at the hospital is working on the various fundraisers that the hospital puts on throughout the year.

Castelli also is also on TMH’s Auxiliary Board. She shared some of the things she does with the Board.

The Big Smile of the Community Award is awarded monthly to local individuals who do an exceptional job putting smiles on the faces of others. 

The Christian County Fair got started off on Tuesday morning with a ribbon cutting ceremony to start the festivities. The event was attended by many involved in the county, including members of the Christian County Board, Taylorville City Council, and Christian County Courthouse. The ribbon cutting took place at roughly 11am when the current Miss Christian County sliced the commemorative ribbon signifying the start of the 2016 Christian County Fair.

The Illinois State Police is preparing to educate the public about the safety of driving and the risks of speeding. Tomorrow, July 27th, The State of Illinois will be participating in Speed Awareness Day to stop speeding and teach the public that speeding is a major cause of traffic fatalities. State Trooper Sean Ramsey said that in the last year there have been more than 500 deaths which is up from the year before, and the state wants to decrease that number as much as possible.

Ramsey said that, generally, people don't see speeding as a major issue, but when a bad accident happens, their minds change. He said that he hopes people will see it as a bigger issue now, so that an accident doesn't need to be an eye opener later.

Illinois Speed Awareness Day is tomorrow and for more information go to Faces4.org. Ramsey recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The 4H portion of the Christian County Fair deals with many different projects including livestock shows. Tomorrow morning marks the start of the livestock shows for the 4H-ers with swine set to show first. Taking place in the livestock shows are 18 year old Mary Kate Curtin and 19 year old Cameron Harmon. Curtin is participating in Master Showmanship where she has to show cattle, sheep, and her toughest challenge, pigs.

Harmon on the other hand is a little more experienced with pigs, and has been raising and handling them since he was much younger.

The Livestock shows will take place Wednesday morning  and will run through the afternoon at the Christian County Fair. Curtin and Harmon were recently guests on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair.

The Taylorville Park Board met in regular session on Monday night at the Manners Park Board Room. The meeting was attended by several members of the community representing various organizations that had proposals for the Park Board, or had issues they wanted to discuss with the board. One speaker at this month’s Park Board meeting was Roy Williamson with Red Bland Little League. After wrapping up their season and district tournaments, Williamson wanted to extend his appreciation to the park board for allowing the use of Park Board facilities for little league play this year. One matter that Williamson brought up to the Park Board was the fact that the Taylorville branch of Red Bland Little League had been moved up a district to District 2 out of Champaign for Little League International. Williamson also informed the Park Board how the district president had expressed interest in having Red Bland Little League and Manners Park host district tournaments next season, but how Manners Park would need to make some Improvements to its baseball diamonds to do so.

One field in particular needs a bit more work than others.

After approving the Payment of Bills and Executive session, the Taylorville Park Board meeting adjourned at approximately 8PM.

The Christian County C-E-O, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities" Program, held its annual orientation for new students Monday night at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditoriumm, to welcome its 2nd class of students.  9 students participated in the program in its first year last year, and facilitator Dick Adams told Regional Radio News that the Monday night event was a great way to begin the 2nd year of the program in Christian County.

Adams said that around 10 students are a part of the 2nd class of C-E-O in Christian County.

The program is supported solely by contributions from businesses and individuals in Christian County, and meets every weekday morning during the school year from 7:30 til 9.

C-E-O Committee co-chair Dee Krueger (above) emceed the Orientation Night.  For more information on the program, go to christiancountyceo.com.
 

Last week’s heat wave passed without major damage to the Illinois Corn Crop, largely due to heavier than anticipated rainfall in most parts of Illinois. Executive Vice President of the Grazing and Feed Association of Illinois Jeff Adkisson says that a survey of his members indicates that most parts of Illinois are expecting a large corn crop this year.

There are some storage issues to be addressed with the anticipated crop. Adkisson expects elevators to start planning for emergency and temporary storage, especially since there is still a lot of last year’s crop sitting unsold. Railcar availability for shipping however seems to have improved this year.

There’s a phone scam going on where someone is claiming to be collecting money for law enforcement. In the scam an individual will receive a call from someone claiming to be with the “Illinois Police and Sheriff’s Association.” The group claims to be collecting money from individuals for law enforcement. When this caller is questioned about the percentage or agencies the money is being dispersed to, the caller will end the conversation. The Sangamon County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 55 would like everyone to know not to make donations over the phone. If you’d like to make a donation to your local law enforcement agencies, donate locally.

Taylorville Southern Baptist Church suffered from a fire over the weekend that has left the building heavily damaged. Taylorville Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall spoke with Regional Radio News and said when the fire department got the call.

Assistant Chief Goodall did say that although there currently isn’t a definitive cause of the blaze, an electrical problem is currently believed to be the culprit.

It’s currently unknown whether or not the building is a total loss or if repairs can be made to the structure, with Goodall stating that that issue is between the church and their insurance company.

A major part of the 4H portion of the Christian County Fair is the animal shows that will take place, starting Wednesday morning, July 27th. The 4H-ers raise animals to the best condition possible and get judged by how they handle them and how healthy and fit their animal is. 18 year old, Mary Kate Curtin, who's with the Christian County 4H Clover Club, has only been in 4H for one year, and said one of her main reasons she joined was to show off her sheep.  

Curtin is taking place in all three animal shows on Wednesday, because she is taking part in Master Showmanship.

Shows begin in the livestock barns with the swine show set to start Wednesday at 8:30 in the morning. Curtin was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair.

The 4H General Show took place at the Christian County Fair Monday morning and over 200 projects were showcased by kids in the area. The projects range in all sorts of things from woodworking, fashion design, visual arts and more. 19 year old Cameron Harmon from Lads and Lasses 4H was involved in three projects during the general show, where two of them dealt with food and gardening.

Harmon also took part in the public speaking portion of the show where he said he had to choose between two different kinds of performances.

Harmon is also participating in the Swine Show at the fair Wednesday morning. Harmon recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair.

The 4H General Show took place Monday morning in the Expo building at the Christian County Fair and Regional Radio News was there to catch all of the action. During the General Show the kids show off the projects they've been working on over the past year and they're judged and graded to see if they have the opportunity to go to the state fair. 14 year old Caleb Grover, part of New Vision 4H Club, said he had three different categories he had projects for and was competing in.

Grover said  he wants to go into the medical field and become a doctor when he grows up and 4H has helped him come to this decision.

The project that won Superior at the State Fair was a board game that taught kids hygiene, how to care for pets, and how to stay healthy. Grover received blue ribbons on all three of his projects this year at the General Show. Grover recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show Live at the Christian County Fair. 

On July 16th 45 year old John E. Long of Taylorville was traveling on 1350 East Road. Around 1250 North, Long drove across the road and down into a ditch. Long’s vehicle hit a tree causing the vehicle to come to a stop. Long was injured, and the vehicle sustained major damage. Long was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital via Suttons Ambulance to be treated for injuries.

Construction season is underway and the Illinois Department of Transportation has a way that you can stay up to date with all of the projects in your local area. Brian Williamsen, spokesperson with IDOT spoke with Regional Radio News and shared some details about IDOT’s “IDOT in Motion” program, and how it can help you stay up to date with all of the construction projects going on in your area.

Williamsen explained how with this service you will get updates sent straight to your e-mail inbox.

The service is completely free, and should you decide that you don’t like the service, it’s free to cancel anytime. For more information, visit IDOT’s website at idot.illinois.gov.

The Taylorville Police Department has terminated Officer Anthony Telford after the department completed its internal investigation of an incident involving Telford last month.

Telford, a seven-year veteran of the Taylorville Police Department, was facing domestic battery charges in Skokie, Illinois due to an incident with his wife following a Chicago Cubs game, where she accused him of choking and punching her in the face during an argument.

Those charges were dropped last week; however Telford had remained on paid administrative leave during the Taylorville Police Department’s investigation. Regional Radio News will have more details on this story as they become available.

Taylorville Water Superintendent David Speagle has informed Regional Radio News that beginning on Monday, July 25^th, the Water Department will begin installing a water main on East Main Cross Street from Water Street to Paw Paw Street as part of the East Main Cross upgrade.

The road will be closed during the day and will be re-opened in the evening with a few exceptions which may cause single night time closures. Signage will be displayed and residents are asked to choose an alternative route. The project is expected to be completed in about one month.

The Taylorville Water Department apologizes for any inconveniences the project may cause. If you have any questions regarding the project, you can contact the Water Department at 287-1441.

Decatur's relationship with Shelbyville has strengthened now that Decatur Memorial Hospital is bringing a new facility to the area. Not only will the new DMH facility provide services to the people of Shelbyville and surrounding areas, but with them they are bringing along the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine to provide services such as X Ray, mammograms, and more. Tim Stone, President and CEO of Decatur Memorial Hospital said that with DMH and SIU combining forces, this will bring a major game changer to the area.

Stone also said that the new facility will have pharmacy capabilities because of a partnership they have with Sav-Mor Pharmacy. Stone believes that all of the partnerships they are developing is the best way to do business to help them know what the area needs.

The facility will be located at 415 N Cedar St in Shelbyville. Stone recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Central Illinois Public Transit continues to grow in central Illinois, and now is located in 7 counties, and brings a lot to the table. They offer many discounted rates, and allow people to use Medicaid to pay for their trips, but only if the rider is going to a doctor's appointment. Nathan Nichols, Mobility Manger at CIPT, said there are multiple payment options a rider can choose from if they ride more frequently than a few times a month.

Nichols also emphasized that CIPT is available to anyone of any age including kids, but only if they have parent permission.

To schedule a ride or for more information, call the Central Illinois Public Transit at 855-755-2478. Nichols appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Shelbyville Dairy Queen is doing what they can to show local law enforcement officers that they appreciate the job that they do. Jenni Case, Owner of the Shelbyville Dairy Queen spoke with Regional Radio News recently and shared what they have planned.

The day is also the Shelbyville Dairy Queen’s Miracle Network day, where the sale of Blizzards will help the Children’s Miracle Network.

The Shelbyville Dairy Queen will have donation buckets available as well for those who would like to give more to both causes. The Law Enforcement Appreciation Night will be on Thursday, July 28^th from 5-9, and officers who would like to participate in the event simply need to come in their uniform or show their badge. The Children’s Miracle Network day will also be taking place throughout the day.

The Villas of Hollybrook is an Assisted Living Community, in Shelbyville, that allows its residents to live life the way they want, but the community has a lot to offer to residents as well. The living community has daily activities planned out, offers two trips a month for the residents, and is a pet friendly environment. Emma Qualls, Assistant Executive Director at the Villas of Hollybrook, mentioned the different types of living accommodations the community has for people interested in moving in, but there are some requirements to be able live there.

Qualls said the Villas of Hollybrook also have a full staff with many of the members specializing in specific things.

The Villas of Hollybrook does have some housing open now and for more information call 217-774-1040. Qualls appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Shelby County 4H Fair and Jr. Fair took place this week and Regional Radio News joined in on the action on NEW COUNTRY 98.3 WSVZ to see what was going on. The fair is all about kids in the area and how they’re able to grow and learn life skills through the 4H program. The fair is an outlet to allow those kids in 4H to show off the skills they’ve learned through baking, raising animals, and much more. One student that Regional Radio News interviewed was Alexis who was involved in the cooking portion of the fair. She shared how she got started cooking, and how she did in the fair.

Regional Radio News was broadcasting live on location during the Shelby County 4H Fair all three days to help showcase all that the kids were able to achieve by being a part of 4H and the fair. 

The Christian County Fair begins next week and the town is excited and finishing up with the final touches. While the actual fair begins next Tuesday, July 26th, the 4H side of things begins on Monday, July 25th. Alisha Gullidge, 4H Youth and Development Coordinator, said that Monday is when the general show is going on where the kids are showing off their projects, and hopes that everyone who goes to the fair will take time to check it out.

Gullidge said that Wednesday is also a busy day filled with livestock shows and award presentations.

4H activities will be taking place throughout the Christian County Fair, and will wrap up those activities on Thursday with their 4H Foundation Auction at 6:00pm. Gullidge recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County Fair is just one week away, and during that week, there is one day that the Christian County Ag Group is focused on. On Thursday, July 28th, the Christian County Ag Group is holding their Ag Appreciation Luncheon at noon at the fair. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce said the lunch is free, it's just important that anyone who wants to attend gets a ticket.

Hornbuckle said that getting the tickets will also allow you to be put in a drawing for door prizes during the lunch, and the Christian County Ag Group is still looking for more door prizes from donors.

For more information you can contact Hornbuckle at the chamber office at 217-824-4919, email her at taylorvillechamber@gmail.com, or visit them on the second floor of US Bank on the South Side of the Taylorville Square. Hornbuckle recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Staying healthy is always important. It's what everyone strives for, but not everyone takes precautions to make sure they don't get sick. Many like to wait to fix the problem after it has already shown itself. Taylorville Memorial Hospital has a health fair coming up with a kidney mobile that is offering free scans to see how healthy people are. Penny Shehadeh, Educator at TMH said that the causes of kidney disease are silent and most people don't even know they have them, which is why it's so important to be screened.

Shehadeh said that the Kidney Mobile will be open for people to take a tour of it to allow them to see what all goes on before they get screened.

The health fair will be on August 3rd from 10:00 until 2:00 and everyone is welcome to attend. Shehadeh was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Probable cause has been found in the case of Angela N. McKinnon to bring her to trial. On Thursday at the Christian County Courthouse, State’s Attorney Michael Havera called Dwane Wheeler of the Kincaid Police Department to testify on the matter. The State asked Wheeler about the investigation of the case. Wheeler testified that there were search warrants obtained for cell phones belonging to the victim, Charles Stevens, as well as Destiny Doud. Wheeler said how Doud’s phone revealed that McKinnon had discussed with Doud that she was worried about jail time, and that during questioning of Doud, McKinnon had revealed that she had sold heroin to Stevens. Wheeler also said there were several other witnesses who had the same story of McKinnon selling victim heroin.

Wheeler said he obtained several hundred messages from victim's phone regarding the purchase of heroin from McKinnon. Wheeler testified that the police department had obtained phone conversations between McKinnon and her boyfriend regarding the Stevens, stating that defendant wished she had brought victim inside the house because she could have saved him. Wheeler also mentioned that he had spoken to McKinnon, and testified that she was very vague, and stated she had told him that once she’s out of jail she was going to keep on doing what she was doing, and stated how McKinnon had stated on her Facebook that she loves the money after the Stevens’ death. Wheeler also stated he had other witnesses who testified that McKinnon had sold the lethal dose of heroin to Stevens.

The Defense asked if Wheeler could say definitively if he could say that victim bought heroin from McKinnon. He said he could not, and identified several others who victim was reaching out to for heroin; including two Stevens’ had reached out to that day which included McKinnon. The Defense argued that Stevens could have had other sources of heroin, and that there is no direct evidence linking McKinnon to selling the heroin that lead to Stevens’ death. The Defense stated they understand why McKinnon is the prime suspect, but that there isn’t enough evidence to hold her and that the case should be dismissed.

The State argued that due to testimony from Wheeler, there is sufficient evidence for the court to find probable cause. The Court ruled that there is probable cause to bring defendant to trial. The Court set dates of Sept 12th at 8:30a for Jury Trial, and August 23rd for further pre-trial.

The Shelby County 4H Fair and Jr. Fair are taking place this week and Regional Rado News joined the action on NEW COUNTRY 98.3 WSVZ to see what was going on. The fair is all about kids in the area and how they are able to grow and learn life skills through the 4H program. The fair is also an outlet to allow those kids in 4H to show off the skills they've learned through baking, raising animals, and more. One student that Regional Radio News interviewed was Elizabeth who won a couple of ribbons from one of the first pies she's ever baked.

Also interviewed was the winner of this year's Miss Shelby County, Jade, and Jr. Miss Shelby County, Mackenzie, who are planning on taking the talents they've learned from both 4H and pageants and implement them as they continue to grow.

Regional Radio News was broadcasting live on location during the Shelby County 4H Fair all three days to help showcase all that the kids were able to achieve by being a part of 4H and the fair.

The Summer months are just as important, if not more important, for the Central Illinois Food Bank, as the holidays are. During this time schools are out and there are many kids who aren't able to eat because they don't have the free or reduced breakfasts and lunches that they do during the school year. Ed McDowell, Volunteer Communication Assistant at Central Illinois Food Bank, said that hunger issues are heard about nationally, but it is a major problem in central Illinois, especially during the summer months.

McDowell said that one way to fight this and help is for the community to come together and work to fight hunger.

For more information, go to centralilfoodbank.org. McDowell was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

For many, Summer is the season to relax, and now that it's July, the hot temperatures are coming in and relaxing is as important as ever. Studies show that living a life surrounded by stress can lead to more illnesses because the body can't relax and let the immune system rest. Karen Vatthauer, Clinical Counselor and Owner of Beacon Professional Counseling said that finding ways to relax, is one of the best ways to stay healthy throughout the year, and provides other great benefits.

Vatthauer gave her top three ways to relax, which are, to walk in nature, listen to soft instrumental music, and meditating and deep breathing.

Vatthauer said meditation is a way to clear the cobwebs out of the mind, and there are many different types of meditations offered in the surrounding areas, including one class she's holding in September.

For more information call Vatthauer at 217-824-3435. Vatthauer recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

An accident on IL Route 29 lead to a hospital trip for several involved. On July 18th, 15 year old Adam M. Downing of Taylorville, who has a learning permit, was attempting to turn from northbound IL Route 29 onto westbound IL Route 104 while having a green light in both directions for IL Route 29. Downing failed to see 67 year old Madelyn C Ryder of Greenup travelling through the intersection while southbound on IL Route 29 in her vehicle. Downing pulled across the intersection and struck Ryder. Both vehicles suffered heavy damage and were towed from the scene. All three occupants in Ryder’s vehicle were transported by EMS to Taylorville Memorial Hospital. Both occupants of Downing’s vehicle refused medical treatment on the scene.

TAYLORVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNOUNCES REGISTRATION

TAYLORVILLE –Taylorville Community Unit Schools has announced the details for the 2016-17 school registration.

Families of returning students may begin the online registration process on Monday, July 25.  The primary guardian should log in to the district’s Skyward Family Access page at www.tcusd3.org.  Parents or guardians needing a log-in ID and password may call their school to obtain this information.  Parents without computers will have access to a computer lab during registration hours to complete the process.  Assistance will be available for those with no computer experience.  There will be no paper registration for returning students.

Health, dental, and vision exam forms and elementary and junior high supply lists are available on the district website at www.tcusd3.org on the registration page. 

To finish registration, parents will need to go to the high school cafeteria to submit any pages printed during the online registration process.  At that time, parents will be given free and reduced meal and textbook rental/fee waiver program information, and a brochure regarding the free student accident insurance program.  Elementary and junior high families will receive a discipline code handbook.  Senior high students will receive their discipline code book, student handbook, and student planner. Families should be prepared to show two forms of proof of address, such as a driver’s license, utility bill, mortgage or lease document, or bank statement.

Once again, the District will be using Skyward’s Fee Management System.  Parents will be able to see their student’s book rental, and fees, and pay online by MasterCard or Visa.  This system integrates directly with the RevTrak system that is already in place.  A nominal convenience fee will be added at the end of the transaction.  Parents are asked to bring a printed receipt to final registration so payment can be verified.  Skyward and RevTrak are secure, user-friendly websites. Families also still have the option to pay by cash or check at their school

Final Registration for All Grades

Final Registration for all grade levels will be held in the High School Cafeteria (enter through the Main Parking Lot Entrance – Home Ec/Ag Wing) on the following days:

If your child’s last name starts with (A-F) - Tuesday, August 9, 2016 – 12:00 – 7:00 p.m.

If your child’s last name starts with (G-N) – Wednesday, August 10, 2016 – 12:00 – 7:00 p.m.

If your child’s last name starts with (O-Z) – Thursday, August 11, 2016 - 12:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Elementary Registration Fees                             Jr High Registration Fees

Kindergarten - $60                                             Grades 5-8 - $95

Grades 1-4 - $70                                                Athletic Participation - $150 (for students who are selected to a team)

High School Registration Fees

Freshman – Junior – Registration $95 plus course fees

Seniors – Registration $105 plus course fees

All students are also required to purchase a student planner for $10.  ($4 for students who are approved for reduced lunches; the fee is waived for students who are approved for free lunches.) 

Athletic Participation - $150 (for students who are selected to a team)

Drivers Ed - $150

Parking - $35

Graduation - $25

Meal Prices                  Breakfast                                              Lunch

Elementary                    Paid - $1.25      Reduced - $0.30            Paid - $2.05      Reduced - $0.40

Jr-Sr.High                     Paid - $1.25      Reduced - $0.30            Paid - $2.20      Reduced - $0.40

For families needing financial assistance, applications for the free/reduced meal program and textbook fee waiver will be available through the online registration process or at registration.

Elementary Information

Elementary students new to the district who do not know their building assignment are asked to call the district office at 217-824-4951.

Students entering Kindergarten must be 5 years old by or on September 1, 2015. 

All students entering Kindergarten or those new to Illinois are required to have physical (must include lead screening), dental and vision exams.  Second grade students are also required to have a dental exam.  Dental and vision exam waivers are available for children who meet certain conditions.  Kindergarteners must also show proof of being up to date on required immunizations, which includes the chicken pox vaccine.

Students will be assigned as follows:  In-town students Grades K-2 will attend North School.  In-town students Grade 3 & 4 will attend Memorial School. Students who were formerly assigned to Stonington Elementary School will remain there for Grades K-3. 

Taylorville Junior High School

Junior high students new to the district are asked to contact the junior high office at 217-24-4924 before August 1 so that transcripts can be obtained prior to registration.

The Jr. High will be closed to the public on Tuesday, August 9 and Wednesday, August 10. It will be open on Thursday, August 11 from Noon – 7:00 p.m. and Friday, August 12 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. so students can come and practice opening their lockers and walkthrough their schedules.

Orientation for all incoming 5th graders will be held to acquaint students with the school, daily procedures, teachers, classes, and lockers.  Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend.  The orientations will be held in the Forum on Thursday, August 11, at 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m.

All sixth grade students and those new to Illinois are required to have physical and dental exams prior to the start of school.  Also, students new to Illinois are required to have a vision exam.  Dental and vision exam waivers are available for children who meet certain conditions. 

Taylorville High School

High school students new to the district are asked to contact the High School office (217-824-2268) before August 1 so that transcripts from previous schools can be obtained prior to registration and to schedule an appointment for registration.  Paper registration packets for new students only will be available at the high school beginning August 1 so that forms can be completed prior to registration day. 

High school students should attend with their parents as yearbook and student ID photos will be taken during registration.  School-appropriate attire is required.  Make-up dates will be scheduled for students who are not able to attend registration.

The Taylorville High School P.E. Department will be taking pre-orders for both boys’ and girls’ PE clothing during registration. 

THS students who plan to drive to school must complete a parking tag registration form and pay the $35 fee as part of the registration process.  Parking tags will not be distributed during registration.  Parking tags will be issued from Mr. Bruder’s office (Student Services) Monday, August 15, Tuesday August 16 and Wednesday, August 17, from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

All ninth grade students and those new to Illinois are required to have a physical examination prior to the start of school and must also show proof that they have received their required booster immunizations.  Also, students new to Illinois are required to have a dental and a vision exam.  Dental and vision exam waivers are available for children who meet certain conditions. Completed forms may be turned in at registration or the first day of school.

FRESHMAN ORIENTATION

The “Tornado Drill” freshman orientation will be held on Monday, August 15 beginning at 9:00 a.m., for all incoming THS 9th graders.  This orientation will acquaint students to the school building, daily procedures, teachers, classes, and lockers.  Activities for the orientation will include a building tour, meetings with administration and staff, and a mini-schedule of their day.  A sack lunch will be provided.

BEGINNING OF SCHOOL

The 2016-17 school year will open on Tuesday, August 16 & Wednesday, August 17, with a two-day workshop for all personnel of the district.  The first day of student attendance will be Thursday, August 18.

The Taylorville School District offers an extensive range of general and vocational education opportunities according to Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau, Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator.  All programs are offered to students without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, or handicap.  The Superintendent's Office is located in Administration Education Center at 512 W. Spresser Street, telephone 824-4951.

The Christian County Board met in regular session last night at the Christian County Courthouse. The meeting started off with the presentation of a zoning ordinance reclassification of a parcel of land being annexed into Taylorville from residential to commercial. The reason for this change was for the construction of a parking lot, and landscaping purposes.  After the reading of communications, the meeting moved on to the various committee reports.

One item that generated some tense discussion during last night’s county board meeting was discussion on the current financial software company that handles payroll for the county. When the county switched from the old software to the new, the county encountered some issues with the system as well as the company that makes the software. This has led to issues regarding the hours and money spent on the conversion. County Treasurer Betty Asmussen wanted clarification on why this was the case from Christian County Clerk Laurie Mense.

This ultimately led to a rather heated exchange between the two.

Another item that came out of the highway, building, grounds, environmental, zoning and welfare committee was a request to award a contract for a bid to repair and replace a bridge in Mt. Auburn. County Board Member Ben Curtin spoke on the request, and stated how the county had received two bids on the project.

The Board passed a motion to accept the bid from County Contractors for the project, with comments on how with the project the bridge will be brought back up to acceptable load limits and re-opened, and should be good for another 50 to 60 years.

After approving mileage and per diem reports as well as approving the appointment of Tony Woods as Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals for a one year appointment, the Christian County Board meeting adjourned at approximately 7:30 PM.

With the temperatures rising to dangerous levels in the coming days, there is a higher risk of heat related illness. Trish Burnett, Regional Communications Director for the American Red Cross spoke with Regional Radio News recently, and gave some tips for how you can avoid becoming a victim to the hot weather.

Burnett also shared some of the health problems one might experience with the rise in temperatures.

Heat related illness is preventable by taking some simple steps to make sure that you stay comfortable and don’t become overheated. For more information or tips on how to stay cool, you can visit the American Red Cross online at redcross.org.

Doctor Lanny Odin (left), owner of Central Illinois Retina Center in Taylorville, was Tuesday's guest speaker at the weekly meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club.  Program chair Patty Hornbuckle (center) invited Dr. Odin to speak; Kiwanis Club president Pastor Bill Kerns is at right.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the owner of the new Central Illinois Retina Center in Taylorville, at their weekly meeting on Tuesday at Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Doctor Lanny Odin opened the new practice on North Chcney in the spring of 2015.  Doctor Odin told Kiwanis Club members that his practice is solely focued on retinal disease, and affilictions caused by an aging eye—those being macular degneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.

Doctor Odin added his goal is to prevent vision loss by medication.  He added laser therapy is being used less and less due to the scarring that it causes.
Kiwanis members were reminded about the upcoming WRAN Kiwanis Radiothon August 2nd, and the annual Peanut Days fund-raiser on the streets of Taylorville September 23rd and 24th.  Both comprise a large share of the club's fund-raising during the year, for projects focused on children and youth.
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.
 

Quad County Home Health and Hospice in Pana has finished moving into a new building where they will be able to offer more to the community. The new building, at 8 Huber Street adjacent to Pana Community Hospital, allows for more offices and a retail space where they can show the equipment they are able to display their Durable Medical Equipment. Carol Chandler, Director of Quad County said she is looking forward to getting started in the new building and is having an open house to celebrate on Friday July 29th.

Quad County is also offering a Faith and Community Breakfast held in the basement of Pana Community Hospital, and Chandler said the purpose of this breakfast is to bring people in the community together to talk about the issues and success in the area.

The breakfast is on July 21st from 7-8 am. For more information on Quad County call the office at 217-562-6380. Chandler recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Republican National Convention has begun in Cleveland and the nation is getting ready to find out what all they can expect from presidential nominee Donald Trump. Congressman Rodney Davis is attending the convention at the moment and learning what the Republican Party has in store for not only the entire country but also the local areas. Davis said that he believes Trump has ways to help out the local communities like Taylorville.

Because of the shootings in Baton Rouge, Davis also called out to the public and challenged citizens to learn who the local officials are in their area, and remember that the officials and officers in their area are people too and have loved ones who care for them.

For more information, you can call Davis's office at 282-225-2371 or visit his website at rodneydavis.house.gov. Davis was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

A rollover accident resulted in the occupants of the vehicle to be hospitalized recently. 27 year old Candice L. Oller of Illiopolis was northbound on County Highway 22. Just north of TWP Road 200 North, Oller lost control of the vehicle. Oller went off the roadway to the right, and over-correction was made and the vehicle came back across the roadway. The vehicle then went into the left ditch and eventually overturned. Occupants of the vehicle were transported to St. Mary’s Hospital in Decatur.

The Taylorville City Council met in regular session on Monday night at the Taylorville Municipal building. It was a rather short meeting with not much to note. Most of the ordinances revolved around monetary issues and allowing various city employees to purchase equipment that their departments needed. One item of note that came out of the meeting was from City Attorney Rocci Romano’s Updates where he commented on the revised drafts of the Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreements between the City of Taylorville, and Owaneco, Kincaid, and Langleyville. City Attorney Romano informed the Council of some of the changes that had been made to the drafts.

The motions to approve the drafts of those Intergovernmental agreements all passed with a 7-0 vote. Nearly all of the motions on the Taylorville City Council’s agenda passed with a 7-0 vote. Two exceptions however were two motions regarding personnel. The first was a motion to bid and or advertise a heavy equipment operator position in the street department. The second was a motion to hire one replacement Police Officer if the need arises. Alderman Heberling, one of the Alderman who opposed the motion, suggested that for any future personnel issues such as this one, that the city entertain the idea of a temporary hiring freeze.

Alderman Vota expanded on Alderman Heberling’s comments, saying how there are many more expenses to hiring a new employee than just that employee’s salary. He explained why for this motion, and potentially future motions like it, he says no.

Alderman Walters did clarify that the motions were not to hire a brand new employee. They were simply to replace people who are or may be leaving their current positions. Ultimately both motions passed by a vote of 5-2.

After passing motions to come out of the various other committees including the payment of bills, the meeting of the Taylorville City Council adjourned at approximately 7:37 PM.

Governor Bruce Rauner made a stop in Taylorville on Monday. On the agenda was a plant tour of GSI, or Grain Systems Inc. on South Spresser Street. The governor also made a stop by the Christian County Courthouse, where he signed into law a bill that bans the sale of addictive bath salts. The bill was sponsored by local legislative leaders Senator Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill) and Representative Avery Bourne (R-Raymond), and passed through both the House and Senate with full bipartisan support.

The uses of “bath salts” have been on the rise over the last decade, and are chemically similar to cocaine and often are disguised as legitimate products.

The bill states that a person may not sell, or offer for sale any bath salts in a retail establishment in Illinois. It is a Class 3 felony if the act is violated, resulting in potential fines of up to $150,000. In addition to any penalty that may be imposed for a violation of the act, the local government that issued that retailers license may revoke their license.

Two variations were outlawed in the United States in 2012, however new chemical compounds have been introduced. SB 210 will go into effect on January 1^st of 2017.

This week Crimestoppers is looking for information in regards to a criminal damage that occurred in Assumption. Sometime between 10PM on Tuesday, July 12^th and 6AM on Wednesday, July 13^th, a person or persons of unknown identity made entry into St. Mary’s Catholic Church, located at 301 Peter Street in Assumption. While inside, the unknown subject or subjects damaged several rooms and ransacked other rooms. Several items were taken from the scene. The total dollar amount of damage and items taken is not known at this time. Crimestoppers asks you to contact them if you have any information on this crime or any other crime or wanted persons. Crimestoppers pays cash rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest, and you do not have to give your name. Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week. You can contact Crimestoppers by calling 824-9100, at their website christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip, and as always you will remain anonymous.

Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans has notified Regional Radio News of a death investigation taking place regarding a Pana resident. On July 17^th at approximately 10:52 AM, 911 received a call that an 18 year old male was not breathing and was unresponsive in the 300 block of Kitchell Street in Pana. The Pana Police Department arrived on scene and requested the coroner. Coroner Winans identified the 18 year old male as James A. Reinstorf of Pana. An autopsy is scheduled for Monday in Bloomington. The investigation is being conducted by the Pana Police Department and the Christian County Coroner’s Office.

The Christian County Fair brings many different attractions to the community, whether they're rides, live stock auctions, pageants, or cook offs. The Exhibit portion of the fair allows people to see home cooked baked goods, homemade arts and crafts and much more. Linda Binger, Superintendent of Exhibits of the Christian County Fair said that there are two classes of exhibits, open and junior, where people will bring in many categories of items, all made themselves.

Binger said the exhibits are a way for people to show what they have made, and enjoy the competition of who has the better wares in each category. She also said the top 5 winners in each category win ribbons and monetary prizes, and are judged by five out of county judges.

Entry will be available until noon Monday July 25th, and entry forms can be found at the fair office or online at christiancountyfair.com. Binger recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Taylorville Municipal Band has been around since 1925 and still has a full band performing every year with major support from the community. The band has around 40 members that play 10 brand new songs each week from the first week in June through the second week in August. Jim Smith, Director of the Taylorville Municipal Band said the band is made up of former band students where some may have become semi-professional, and others have continued to play throughout their lives.

Band members come from many of the surrounding communities and perform with the band both for fun, and a bit of extra incentive.

The concerts are free to attend at Hershey Towers, and to become part of the band for the 2017 concert series, call Smith at 217-824-5148. Smith was recently a guest on the NewsTalk WTIM Morning Show.

The Illinois National Guard is saying no to the popular mobile game Pokemon GO. The Illinois National Guard have banned playing the game on any of its Army National Guard, Air National Guard, or Illinois Department of Military Affairs properties, nor will they allow the public access to these facilities to play the game.

Several people have shown up to the gates of Illinois National Guard facilities and training centers throughout the state asking for access to the facilities to play the game. Illinois National Guard Public Affairs Director Lt. Col. Brad Leighton said that the Illinois National Guard cannot allow access to these facilities, considering the safety and force protection issues it would create. The Illinois National Guard is taking steps to have their facilities removed as popular stops for the game.

The Illinois National Guard is also forbidding its Soldiers and Airmen, as well as any Federal and State employees who work on the facilities from playing the game as well. Lt. Col. Leighton commented saying how if the Guard allowed any of their troops or civilian employees to play the games on the property, they would be drawing people off base to the secured properties.

The only exception is the Illinois State Military Museum, which is only allowing people on the property to play the game, as well as other internet augmented reality games during hours when the museum is open to the general public.

The Shelbyville Rotary Club was recently treated to a program by Austin Pritchard, Commander of the Shelby County Dive Team. The current Dive Team was organized in 2000, and has been since served Shelby County and Lake Shelbyville for 16 years. It is composed of 14 volunteer divers and shore responders, as well as their chaplain, Rev. David Middleton.

The Dive Team trains regularly and has gradually developed through fund raising and donations improvements in their equipment and diving gear, including a boat and trailer, side scan sonar, and a custom van with a generator. The Shelby County Dive Team assists with county water emergencies, except for those involving wells. The divers work as a team, and the diver in the water is always monitored. Typically the Dive Team gets requested 10-15 times each year.

The Shelbyville Rotary Club was shown dive suits, equipment including the side scan sonar unit, and the dive team’s emergency van. The Dive Team’s training and skills along with their quality equipment provide Shelby County and Lake Shelbyville a great volunteer Dive Team, that the county has come to depend on with great confidence.

Expansion is taking place at Taylorville Vision Source on the east side of the square. 

A new exam room has been built, as well as an additional room for patient care.  This will allow both optometrists who work at the Taylorville location—Doctors Rob and Emily Smith—to handle more patients.

The Smith's moved to Taylorville when Vision Source of Effingham purchased the former Taylorville Vision Center in April of 2015, and re-opened as Taylorville Vision Source in June of that year.

Vision Source is expanding to 5 locations across Central Illinois this fall.

Illinois will likely reach an $8 billion budget hole according to the legislative commission on government forecasting and accountability. This is due to the stopgap budget deal between Governor Rauner and lawmakers, since the stopgap budget calls for more spending than revenue. State Rep. David McSweeney, who was one of four lawmakers to vote against the budget deal requested the report.

As August nears, so does the start of the school year and just like every other school, Moulton Middle School, is preparing for August. Throughout this summer, Moulton Middle School has been making some visual changes inside to make it more appealing and practical to students, parents, faulty, and guests. Russ Tomblin, Principle of Moutlon Middle School said that these changes include updating the main office to brand the school and show off school pride.

Another thing Tomblin mentioned was upgrading and making changes to the library to make it more user friendly to the age group.

For information and questions on what is going on at the middle school or to get involved you can call Tomblin at 217-774-2169. Tomblin appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Shelby County Community Services brings a lot to the Shelby County community including many services that help people in need. These services primarily focus on providing and promoting mental health and rehabilitation programs for the area residents. Executive Director Tom Colclasure, said that the Clinic tries to make sure people know that they have people come to their clinic for all types of reasons and if others knew that, there wouldn't be a negative stigma toward it.

Colclasure is proud of one of the great things Community Services brings to the area is the developmental training program, which he said he thinks is one of the best in Illinois.

For more information or get help from Shelby County Community Services, call them at 217-774-5587 or visit their website at sccsil.org. Colclasure recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Shelby County Rescue Squad has been around for 41 years and has a team of 15 people varying in different specialties to assist the area. To become a member of the squad you must be trained for a year, and have a background check, but afterward the trainee is certified for life. Clint Stiner, Chief of the rescue squad said the squad does work well with the equipment they have, but there are some things they would like, to be able to run more smoothly, including a crew cab to help the squad members not have to use their own vehicles as much when called into action.

The rescue squad operates off of a low budget, and is funded by Shelby County, but the money that the squad receives, doesn't always pay for everything they need and sometimes they have to ask for more money from the county if they can't raise it themselves. Stiner highlighted one of the fundraisers the rescue squad holds during the year.

To become part of the Shelby County Rescue Squad or for more information on the squad or how to help them, call Stiner at 217-855-6731, or stop by the Shelbyville Firehouse. Stiner appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

A preliminary hearing date has been tentatively set in the case of Angela McKinnon. McKinnon is facing a homicide charge after the death of a Kincaid resident in June. Charles Stevens was found dead by a family member after overdosing on heroin, and prosecutors had obtained text messages and phone call records connecting McKinnon to the overdose. The defense requested a preliminary hearing date for July 21^st, which the state and court agreed to, pending the availability of the State’s witnesses.

Bond has been set for two Pana residents facing methamphetamine manufacturing charges. Chad and Stephen Reiss of Pana were both seen on Friday at the Christian County Courthouse, where bond was set for both individuals in their cases at $300,000 each. State’s Attorney Michael Havera requested the bond amount from the court, and read to the court the probable cause for the request, after which the court found there to be sufficient probable cause for the bond amount. Each defendant was appointed a public attorney in their cases, with Chad Reiss being assigned Public Defender Grigsby, and Stephen Reiss being assigned Public Defender Atteberry. Both defendant’s next court date is July 18^th.

Apparent Democratic Presidential nominee Hilary Clinton visited the Old State Capitol recently to make connections between the discussions on race in Abraham Lincoln’s time as well as today. Clinton called for the nation to address issues such as gun violence, criminal justice reform, and to find ways to support police departments while doing this. Clinton called her apparent opponent in the Presidential Race Donald Trump the ultimate divider.

Clinton based her comments on Trumps stances on Muslims, Hispanics, and women.

Illinois Comptroller Leslie Munger has said that the recent stopgap budget deal passed by the Illinois Legislature won’t stall the growth of the state’s debt. Munger says that the state’s bill backlog will only continue to expand into the fall months and that by the end of the year; the state is looking at $10 billion in unpaid invoices. She’s making a point of making paying state lawmakers and constitutional officers including herself a low priority.

Munger calculated that the state is on track to outspend its revenue by two and a half billion dollars in the next six months.

A Taylorville man who had been accused of methamphetamine manufacturing has plead guilty to the charge, as well as two other charges on Thursday at the Christian County Courthouse. Dustin B. Langen plead guilty on charges of meth manufacturing, possession of a stolen vehicle, as well as retail theft. The charge of meth manufacturing is punishable by 4-6 years in the Illinois Department of corrections. The charges of possession of a stolen vehicle and retail theft come with possible punishments of 3-7 years and 1-3 years in the Illinois Departments of Corrections. Langen has also been sentenced to a 4 year sentence in Macon County, and the state has agreed to run that concurrent with the charges in Christian County. Langen will be sentenced by Judge Paisley on September 6^th in the Christian County Courthouse.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce has a new member joining them. Taylorville Urgent Care is coming to the area in the next month and is ready to celebrate with the chamber. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce welcomes Taylorville Urgent Care and Dr. Paul Toofan to the area.

Taylorville Urgent Care will be hosting August's Business After Hours once they are open, but Hornbuckle is focused on July's Business After Hours taking place at Midland Community Bank on July 20th.

For more information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, call them at 217-824-4919, email them at taylorvillechamber@gmail.com, or visit them on the second floor of US Bank on the South Side of the Taylorville Square. Hornbuckle recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

As the year continues, people have to fend off threats to their trees and plants in their yard such as insects, rabbits, birds, and even weeds. Andrew Holsinger, Horticulture Educator at the University of Illinois Extension Unit 18, said that one major threat to yard trees can be tree borers and yellow bellied sap suckers.

The U of I Extension will investigate and offer help for your lawn care in case something is wrong with someone's plants or if they need some advice on what plants may be the best fit for the area. Answering those questions is part of Holsinger's job.

Call Holsinger with questions at 217-532-3941 or at the extension at 217-287-7246. Holsinger was recently a guest on the NewsTalk WTIM Morning Show.

As November nears, the presidential elections are beginning to heat up because the party nominees are getting ready to be selected. Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton are the presumed nominees as all they are waiting for are their respective national conventions, where they'll be declared, both happening in the next two weeks. Jim Bohannon, Host of the Jim Bohannon Show said that his talk show will be covering both the democratic and republican conventions and gave some insight on what goes on there.

Trump will announce his running mate Friday at 10:00 am, but his campaign has suggested that he will chose Indiana Governor Mike Pence. Bohannon said for Clinton, it's difficult to know who she is going to choose and she has multiple avenues to go down.

You can stay informed with the political race and all national news with the Jim Bohannon show, week nights from 9-midnight on NEWSTALK WTIM. Bohannon recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Regional Radio News has learned that the domestic battery charge against Taylorville Police Officer Anthony Telford has been dismissed. Regional Radio News spoke with Taylorville Chief of Police Dave Herpstreith who confirmed that the charges had been dismissed, and commented that the department is continuing with their internal investigation on the matter. Officer Telford will remain on paid leave while the investigation continues. Regional Radio News will have more details regarding the matter while they become available.

Severe weather tore thru Central Illinois late this afternoon, taking down trees and power lines.

Christian County Emergency Management Agency director Mike Crews told Regional Radio news during our live coverage in the 5 o'clock hour, that wires were down in Stonington and Edinburg, and a funnel cloud spotted near Mount Auburn.

And Crews added that most of the damage was caused by wind.

The entire area was under a severe thunderstorm watch for most of Wednesday afternoon and evening.

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner is looking for more of a say in the school funding reform debate. He’s announced a new commission to look at how to better fund schools and account for the disparity of funding between schools with high poverty levels and those in more affluent areas.

The commission is has a deadline of February 1^st of next year to share their findings.

There is a new Taco Bell location coming to Shelbyville. The Taco Bell will be located at the former location of Guys Steakhouse. Regional Radio News recently spoke with Shelbyville City Clerk Carrie Jones who told us that the demolition process of the old building has been completed and that construction should begin soon. The new Taco Bell will be the first Taco Bell in Shelbyville in quite some time. There is currently no timetable for when construction is expected to be completed, however Jones says that she has been told that the construction process should happen fairly quickly.

HSHS St. Johns Children’s Hospital held their Teddy Bear Clinic on Tuesday as 26 elementary school kids from Brandon Court Community Center visited the hospital to learn about what it’s like to work in a hospital. Kim Luz, Director of Community Outreach for the HSHS Central Illinois Division Hospitals spoke with Regional Radio News recently and shared how this program aims to change the children’s perspective when it comes to healthcare.

The event put the children in their own lab coats and stethoscopes as they created and cared for their own “buddy doll”. Luz shared some of the activities that the kids got to do with their doll with the help of the medical staff at HSHS St. Johns Children’s Hospital.

Luz said that not only did the kids learn about some of the procedures that the children got to do with their buddy dolls, but they also had the chance to speak with many of the other departments at the hospital. She shared how this helped the kids understand just how many things they can do in the medical field when they grow up.

According to the latest stats from Capital Area Realtors, Home sales fell 10 percent last month compared to June of last year in Sangamon, Christian, Menard, and Morgan counties, as well as a section of northern Macoupin County. Association President Kristie DeBrun talked about the reasons why sales are down.

The median sale price of a home rose 1.6 percent from a year ago to $132,000. DeBrun also shared what homes are the easiest to sell.

Springfield as well as the surrounding areas continues to be plagued by a shortage of homes in the 150 to 200 thousand dollar range.

The stopgap budget was signed and with it brings funds for 12 months for the public school system. And all may seem fine, but the Taylorville school system is still looking for more, and being cautious, because in 12 months they will be looking to see if the budget will be passed to continue to fund them. Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau, Superintendent of Taylorville Schools said that one thing that still needs to be fixed is the state government's formula for how much an area will be paid by the government to keep their schools open.

Fuerstenau said that there's an agreement that the formula isn't good, but the school systems are still waiting for a solution to take place.

For more information on Taylorville schools, go to the district website at tcusd3.org. Fuerstenau recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Summer continues to heat up, and for the most part, the weather has been warm and calm. That means that people will be spending a lot of time outside and for people with boats, they'll be spending a lot of time on lakes and rivers. Joe Cochran, Conservation Police Officer for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, said the major concern of people on boats are people who are operating vehicles under the influence or having a lack of life jackets.

Cochran also highlighted on a new law for boating that has gone into effect this year.

For more information on new laws regarding boating and other things, go to dnr.illinois.gov. Cochran was recently a guest on the NewsTalk WTIM Morning Show.

Lincoln Land Community College is offering an Agricultural Watershed Management Program for their upcoming semesters. The certificate programs are aimed at farm owners, operators, agricultural service providers, and traditional agriculture and environmental science students. David Bowman, workforce coordinator and developer of the Agricultural Watershed certificate program curriculum spoke with Regional Radio News and shared what brought this new program to LLCC.

Bowman gave some details on some of the courses that will be a part of the program.

Courses are primarily 50 percent lab time, and 50 percent lecture time. Courses are currently only offered at LLCC’s Springfield campus, however Bowman did say depending on enrollment numbers of the program, the program could come to the Taylorville campus as well. For more information on the Agriculture Watershed Management program, you can contact Bowman at 786-2317, or online at llcc.edu/watershed-management.

The Board of Directors at CNB Bank and Trust has announced the promotion of Kelly Dulakis to Assistant Vice President and Retail Lender at CNB’s Taylorville location. Dulakis began her career at CNB in 2001 with prior banking experience in a number of areas such as bookkeeping, human resources, new accounts, and as a teller. Her understanding of the banking industry and efforts on the behalf of customers are the basis of Dulakis’ promotion.

Dulakis began her full time lending responsibilities in 2009, and accepted the Teller Supervisor position in 2011. She relinquished her Teller Supervisor responsibilities in June to allow her to focus solely on her lending customers.

Kent Richardson, CNB Taylorville Market President said that “Kelly continues to provide excellent customer service to our Taylorville customers, as well as remaining a leading producer of residential real estate mortgage loans. She is a true asset to the bank, and I appreciate her dedication and hard work over the past 15 years at CNB.”

Dulakis is also an active member of the local community, and is currently in her 13^th year as a member of the South Fork School Board in Kincaid. She also participates in the South Fork Boosters Club, and is a member of St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Kincaid, serving on the church’s Finance Committee.

The Taylorville City Council met in regular session Monday night. The meeting took place in the Stonington Elementary cafeteria as opposed to the usual setting of the Taylorville School District Administration Building. The reason for the change in venue was due to the school board getting a tour of the facilities in Stonington.

There were several items of both old business and new business to attend to during the meeting. One was the consideration of bids for two vehicles as well as a piece of property that the school owns. There were some questions as to how the school acquired the property as well as what its appraised value was. Dr. Fuerstenau explained that the reason why the school was looking to sell the property was due to the costs of maintenance, as well as the fact that the school has to list it as a liability on its insurance.

Another item of note that came out of Monday’s Taylorville School Board Meeting was the report that the renovations to the Taylorville High School track are underway.

The Taylorville School Board meeting on Monday adjourned at approximately 7:57pm.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from a Taylorville High School coach, at their weekly meeting Tuesday at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.
Lee Mateer is the T-H-S head wrestling coach as well as the defensive coordinator for the Tornadoes football team.  He gave Kiwanis members his philosophy on coaching, and prospects for the football team this fall.
Mateer is in his 13th year at Taylorville High School, and said his message to athletes he's coached over the years is to be engaged in their community, and added he's worked to build relationships with all of the student athletes he coaches.

Mateer said that over 100 students are out for football this fall, which is a record number, and added that the Apollo Conference will be even stronger in the 2017-18 school year with the addition of Mahomet-Seymour and Lincoln.
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. 

Next month, former Governor Rod Blagojevich will be resentenced on his 2011 corruption convictions. Despite the fact that five of eighteen convictions were thrown out by an appeals court, prosecutors will seek a status quo sentence. They are asking Judge James Zagel to issue the same 14 year prison term Blagojevich is currently serving. The Blagojevich defense team is asking to have his sentence reduced to five years.

The First Baptist Church in Stonington will be hosting an Inspirational Christian Music Concert on July 23^rd at 7pm. The concert will feature Gospel Singer Larry Mathes. Mathes began playing gospel music solos and began a solo ministry, billing himself as “One Soldier for God” in honor of his years as a Salvation Army Soldier. Mathes has volunteered to bring the evening of inspirational music to help First Baptist Church continue to serve the people of the surrounding communities. The concert will also feature the Joy Assembly Praise Band, and is free to the public to attend. 

A local university has been named one of the Nation’s best by Forbes in its annual Top Colleges in America Rankings. Millikin University is one of 26 colleges from Illinois to make the Forbes’ national raking of 660 institutions. Millikin University Provost Jeff Aper spoke with Regional Radio News recently about the rankings, and said why the Forbes ranking is different than other college rankings.

Aper shared what he feels sets Millikin University apart from other Universities in the country.

Last year 99 percent of Millikin graduates gained employment or admission in to professional or graduate school within six months of graduation. For more information on Millikin University, visit them online at millikin.edu.

The Christian County Fair start date continues to creep closer with kickoff on July 26th. The Christian County Fair tends to be regarded as one of the best county fairs in the state, and has many major attractions like the Illinois State Championship Chili Cookoff, stock car races, and the demolition derby that sells out every year. Mike Drea, Secretary of the Christian County Fair Board said that they always try to make the fair a family friendly and fun event, and they also try to make it as diverse as possible so it can appeal to just about anyone.

One attraction that Drea made sure to highlight was the Helicopter rides they'll have every day from late afternoon until sundown.

The full list of events at the Christian County Fair can be found at christiancountyfair.com. Drea was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Drug abuse has become more of an issue recently in Christian County and the surrounding areas. Recently there have been two deaths related to drug abuse of not only illegal drugs such as heroin, but also prescription drugs. Sargent Alan Mills from the Taylorville Police Department said over the past 5-10 years, in the area, there have been some spikes in prescription drug abuse, and that these drugs are just as dangerous as illegal ones.

Mills said that people misuse their prescription drugs because they find out that other people want them, and the pill means more to them than it does for the person in pain.

For more information or to contact Mills, call him at 217-824-2211. Sargent Mills recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Bond remains set at $150,000 for Bradley E. Martin, who is facing child pornography charges. Martin had filed a motion to reduce bail in the Christian County Court, and that motion was heard on Tuesday. The Defense testified that Martin could not pay the bond, and asked to be released on recognizance. Martin testified that should he be released, he could stay with family. The defense pointed out that he had never missed a court date, and stated how the purpose of bond is to ensure court appearances, which hadn’t been an issue with Martin in the past. The State argued that there had already been a hearing on the bond issue when the bond was set, and argued that due to the seriousness of the offences as well as prior charges against the defense, that the bond had been properly set. The motion was denied, with the court saying how due to the seriousness of the charges as well as the date of the Jury Trial, the motion could not be accepted.

The Taylorville City Council met in regular session Monday night. The meeting took place in the Stonington Elementary cafeteria as opposed to the usual setting of the Taylorville School District Administration Building. The reason for the change in venue was due to the school board getting a tour of the facilities in Stonington.

The meeting was also more notably upbeat considering the news of the passing of the stopgap budget that will fully fund Illinois Schools for the year. Taylorville Superintendent Dr. Greggory Fuerstenau commended the local Citizens For Education group for their continued presence both in Springfield and at other school funding reform rallies across the state. With the stopgap budget in place, Taylorville Schools can now look at putting together its FY17 budget.

It was also mentioned during the treasurer’s report that the Taylorville School District is expecting their first local installment in August.

It was also mentioned during the meeting that online registration for Taylorville Schools will begin soon. Regional Radio News will have more details when they become available.

After a scene investigation and toxicology results, Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans has released the cause of death for 62 year old Jane Hailey of Taylorville as combined Morphine and Hydrocodone intoxication. Her death was determined to be accidental. Hailey was found dead in her home in Taylorville on June 23rd. The Taylorville Police Department and Christian County Coroner's Office handled the investigation.

The national tension involving police shootings has hit close to home. A Decatur man is in serious condition after a Decatur police officer who believed he had a gun, shot the suspect in the chest Monday morning. The investigation has been turned over to the Illinois State Police. Interim Police Chief Jim Getz describes the weapons carried by Lonnie Mitchell II.
 

Getz says the handling of the incident is a study in police restraint and going the extra mile for care of the suspect.
 

The officer is a five year veteran of the Decatur department.

The stopgap budget is by no means a full budget, nor should it be treated that way, but this budget does help in key areas and services offered in Christian County and the surrounding areas. Representative Avery Bourne, Representative of the 95th District, said that this stopgap is certainly not perfect, but it can help a lot for the next 6 months for road construction and education.

Bourne said to remember that this stopgap is not going to keep the state going for the next full year, but should be used as a stepping stone until a new budget can be finalized, passed, and make a difference in the state.

More information about Bourne and the issues she's covering can be found at repbourne.com. Bourne was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Just because the stopgap budget was passed and has helped fund a lot of institutions in the state, that doesn't mean that everyone is safe, as one Christian County program will still see some cutbacks. The Christian County Senior Citizens Center is looking at losing funding from both the state and federal governments that will affect the transportation and lunches the senior center provides. Gerry Mahr and Judy Gates from the Christian County Senior Citizens Center said that the cut backs could cause some issues with lunches and transportation and could cause the center to be open for only 4 days a week.

Mahr and Gates said they work together, especially during these times to make sure they don't bring much harm to people in the community who use their services.

The cutbacks won't happen until October 1st, and until then, the Christian County Senior Citizens Center will be operating normally. Mahr and Gates recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

As the summer continues and fall is on its way, local garden walks are coming to a close, but from those garden walks, people may have an idea for a plant they may want to try out in their garden. Gwen Podeschi, Master Gardener from the University of Illinois Extension Unit 18, said that if there is something new and ambitious that someone wants to try, they should first call the Help Desk at the U of I to make sure that it won't be a headache later on.

Podeschi also gave a lot of advice including advice on what pests to make sure you keep your eye out for in your garden.

Podeschi said the best way to avoid these pests is to harvest your fruits before the insects and animals have a chance of getting to them. More advice can be found by calling 217-287-7246. Podeschi recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

This week Crimestoppers is looking for information in regards to a criminal damage that occurred in Taylorville. Sometime between the afternoon of Friday, June 17^th and the morning of Saturday, June 18^th, a person or persons of unknown identity entered a John Deere 690B excavator that was parked on the south side of Lake Taylorville. The unknown subject or subjects started the machine, drove it a short distance, and then drove it into the lake. The machine was left in the water, and the total dollar amount of damage is estimated at over $12,000. Crimestoppers asks you to contact them if you have any information on this crime or any other crime or wanted persons. Crimestoppers pays cash rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest, and you do not have to give your name. Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week. You can contact Crimestoppers by calling 824-9100, at their website christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip, and as always you will remain anonymous.

Progress on renovating the old lumberyard building in Taylorville has been slow, but is moving forward. After renovations began, workers had discovered that the building was in worse shape than previously thought, leading to more work being necessary to repair the building. This lead to much of the building having to be torn down so that section could be rebuilt. Regional Radio News recently spoke with Pamela Moses, owner of the building, who shared that although the progress has been slower than expected, there is progress being made on the renovation.

Moses said how even though she’s excited about the prospects of the building looking nice again, the more important thing is the opportunity to bring more business to Taylorville.

The current timeline for the completion of the work being done on the building is set for the fall. Moses did say that she already has several businesses interested in moving into the location once the work is complete.

Once construction and renovations are complete to the old Lumberyard building in Taylorville, the current plan is to have new businesses take up residence at the location. One of those businesses is slated to be an Escape Room attraction. Regional Radio News recently spoke with Tyler Frump, the future owner of the attraction, who gave some insight into what an escape room attraction is and some details on the one that she’s bringing to Taylorville.

Escape Room attractions have been a big hit all across the country as a fun activity for family and friends. Frump shared how an experience with her mother at an Escape Room attraction helped spark her inspiration to bring one to Taylorville.

Frump is hoping to open the doors to the Escape Room in Taylorville in September, and pricing is expected to be $20 per person. 

Regional Radio News covered a story last week that stated that the Historical Society and the Taylorville Park Board had a meeting with each other to discuss financing of the Historical Society. Regional Radio News spoke with both Sue Phillips and Marlane Miller of the Taylorville Park Board who informed us that this wasn’t the case. It was mentioned that the Park Board and Historical Society hadn’t met for several weeks. The meeting that had happened with the Historical Society was between them and their own legal team.

Decatur First Church of the Nazarene is again a satellite site for the upcoming Global Leadership Summit August 11th and 12th.

The 2-day live event will be transmitted from Willow Creek Church in suburban Chicago, to over 450 locations around the world, including Decatur First Nazarene.

Whether at church, school, business or home, leaders are leading people and projects every day. Leading in a culture that is constantly changing and redefining itself.

Leaders thru-out Central Illinois are invited to gather with thousands of leaders across North America for The Global Leadership Summit. Last year, Decatur First Nazarene had over 40 area leaders participate.

This year's speakers include Willow Creek founding pastor Bill Hybels, Melinda Gates of the Gates Foundation, Alan Mulally who is president and C-E-O of Ford Motor Company, Bishop T-D Jacks of the Potter's House Church, and Horst Schulze who is founding president of the Ritz-Carlton Group.

Registration is just $209, and can be done on-line by clicking the "2016 Leadership Summit" icon at d1naz.com.
 

Computer Techniques, Incorporated, also known as C-T-I, launched their new gigabit Internet service with a ribbon cutting and cookout at their Sportsman Drive offices in Taylorville on Saturday.

Congressman and Taylorville native Rodney Davis spoke before the ribbon cutting.  Davis told Regional Radio News before the ribbon was cut, that it's exciting to see how C-T-I has grown, and how important it is to Taylorville to have gigabit Internet speed.

Davis added that more people will look at Taylorville as a place to establish a business.

C-T-I co-owner Billy Williams told Regional Radio News about the new product launch.

And, Williams said it means much more bandwidth for their Internet customers.

Williams added that C-T-I is in Phase 6 of 8 phases of fiber optic construction.

C-T-I co-owner Adam Vocks told Regional Radio News that the new gigabit Internet is important to their business.

Local residents Adam Vocks and Billy Williams co-founded C-T-I in 1998.

Local civic leaders met today on the north side of the Christian County Courthouse Friday at noon for a prayer service for those killed and wounded in the Dallas Police Shootings on Thursday night. The event was attended by several members involved in local government, including Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton, Christian County Board Chairman Paul Schmitz, officers with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office and Taylorville Police Department, as well as members of the public. 

The Shelby County Jr. Fair is less than two weeks away and the Fair Board is ready for it with some events even planned for next week for some of the 4H kids. The full action begins July 18th, but for it to be ready for the public, there are some last minute things that must be taken care of. Lisa Mott, President of the Shelby County Jr. Fair Board said that the community comes together and works to make sure everything is ready for the public to attend.

Mott said that thanks to the community, the Shelby County Jr. Fair has raised enough money from the community to make sure that there will be a 2017 fair no matter what happens with the state budget after the stopgap expires.

Mott also mentioned one of their main sponsors, Shelby County State Bank who is committing to the fair for the next 5 years by giving the fair $5,000 each year. Frye recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Shelby County Office of Tourism is holding their annual photo contest through September to use the photos for the guides and pamphlets for Shelby County. Freddie Fry, Executive Director of the Shelby County Office of Tourism, said that Shelby County doesn't use any stock photos when are promoting things from Shelby County or putting together guides and booklets, all the photos they use come from the photos that are taken in the contest. Fry said that one category they need more photos submitted for, is “Faces at Places.”

Fry also mentioned some of the events going on at the Findlay Walleye Festival including, music, parades, a pancake breakfast, and more.

You can find more information on what's going on around Shelby County by contacting the Tourism Office at 217-774-2244 or go to their website at lakeshelbyville.com. Frye recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Donating blood is always a worthy cause, and using the little time it takes to donate is well worth it because of the lives that can be saved. Someone can save up to 3 adult lives, or 6 babies just by donating blood. On Thursday July 21st at the First Baptist Church in Shelbyville, from noon to 6, the Red Cross will be taking blood for anyone who wants to donate. Glenda Plunkett, Marketing Director at the Shelby Memorial Hospital, said that the most sought after blood type is O negative, but they are interested in anyone willing to donate, no matter what type of blood they have.

Plunkett also said that summer months are the time when donated blood is most needed because there are more accidents and crime happening, and the donations decrease as well.

To schedule a time to donate blood, or find when the next blood drive will be in the area, go to redcross.org. Plunkett recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Regional Radio News has learned that a prayer service will take place at noon today on the north side of the Christian County Courthouse, praying for those killed and wounded in the Dallas police shootings last night.  The public is invited to attend.

CTI in Taylorville will be hosting their Gigabit Internet Launch Party tomorrow at their location on 1100 Sportsman Drive in Taylorville. The launch party will have food provided, demonstrations of the new gigabit internet service, and free gifts while supplies last. This party is open to the public and anybody who would like to attend. Everyone is invited to stop by from 11am until 2pm at CTI’s location in Taylorville.

Many people around Taylorville may have noticed the construction going on at the old lumberyard building on the corner of Market and Clay Streets in Taylorville. Regional Radio News recently spoke with Pamela Moses, the new owner of the location, and found out what’s going on at the site. Moses told Regional Radio News that she bought the building after being tired of seeing it sit vacant for so long, with the intentions of repairing the building for future use. Moses relayed how when the repair work began, workers discovered that the building was in worse shape than previously thought, leading to much more work than was anticipated.

Moses shared how once the work is complete and the building is repaired, the current plan is to divide the location up into several different office spaces for businesses to rent.

There are several potential businesses who have expressed interest in the location so far, with one business already being slated to move into the location once construction is complete.

As the Christian County Fair approaches, so does the Ag Appreciation Luncheon, sponsored by the Christian County Ag Group. It'll be Thursday July 28th at 11:30 in the Beer Tent at the fair. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, said putting this together is one of the biggest projects for the Christian County Ag Group every year, and this year they will be having a special guest speaker, Illinois Farm Bureau President, Richard Guebert.

Tickets are free and claiming one will allow attendees to be entered for the chance for door prizes during the luncheon.

Hornbuckle also wanted to remind the public about CTI's gigabit internet launch party held at their business on Sportsman Drive in Taylorville from 11-2 going on this Saturday July 9th.

For more information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and local business news, you can call their office at 217-824-4919, email them at taylorvillechamber@gmail.com, or visit their office on the second floor of US Bank on the South Side of the Taylorville Square. Hornbuckle recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 has a new program where they help out local businesses and governments. The program “On the Front Line” focuses on customer service and making sure anyone that a business or government comes in contact with leaves as satisfied as possible, and isn't upset with how they were treated or talked to. Chris Casey, Community and Economic Development Educator, at the U of I Extension said that the program isn't the same for everyone and can focus on what a group or organization needs.

Casey said, that while for some jobs we have to expect good customer service, but for a full business or organization, customer service could make your business thrive or hinder it.

For more information on “On the Front Line” you can call the U of I Extension at 217-287-7246. Casey was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

As one of the main transportation services in the area, Central Illinois Public Transit works hard to help the community and be a valid and trustworthy use to the citizens. One service CIPT provides is Travel Training, where they will get together with a group and have them ride on the buses to learn and have a feeling of what the Public Transit has to offer. Nichols said this is one way to put people at ease to riding the bus and vans they provide, as well as educate and have people spread the word of what CIPT provides for the community.

Nichols also said that the public transit fares can be covered by Medicaid as long as the rider's trip is to a medical appointment.

To schedule a ride with CIPT call 855-755-2478, and you can find more information about them on Facebook at Central Illinois Public Transit. Nichols recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Regional Radio News has been asked by several listeners, whether Starbucks was coming to the Taylorville Kroger. Regional Radio News contacted the local Taylorville Kroger, who told us that their store was not getting a Starbucks, and was unsure where the rumor started that they were. But, again there's no Starbucks coming to the Taylorville Kroger store.

It was reported that on June 30th, Tyler Lecocq of Taylorville had been arrested for an alleged retail theft. The Taylorville Police Department reported to Regional Radio News that this was an error, and the agency apologizes for the mistake. The correct name concerning the arrest for the alleged theft is 37 year old Tyler P. Jones of Decatur.

Unemployment rates are fairly low right now, however many people are searching for a better paying job. Often times those better jobs are out there, but employers and qualified applicants don't get connected. Jeff Mays, director of the Illinois Dept of Employment Security says they currently have nearly 180,000 jobs listed in Illinois and of you register at IllinoisJobLink.com you can get a lot of help finding that better job.



Most employers list their jobs on the IllinoisJobLink website, and most of the commercial employment websites get most of their listings from the state site as well.



The Dept of Employment Security can also help you get free or low cost job training through community colleges and other sources to improve your skills and help land a better paying position.

The Sangamon County Coroner’s office has released the cause of death for 64 year old Yolanda E. Brown of Springfield, who was pronounced deceased at St. John’s Emergency Room on July 5^th at 11:22pm. Brown was a pedestrian struck by a vehicle while she was walking in the roadway in the 400 block of South Dirksen Parkway around 10:15pm. After an autopsy performed by the Coroner’s office on Wednesday morning, the preliminary cause of death has been ruled to be blunt force injuries from the incident. The Springfield Police Department is investigating the incident.

Central Illinois has experienced warmer than average temperatures lately, and although the warmer weather is seen as a good thing by many, there are many health and safety risks associated with the warmer weather.

Many heat related fatalities can occur due to the warmer weather, including cases of children, elderly, and disable people, and pets being left in hot cars. According to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, even with the windows slightly open, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise 30 to 40 degrees in less than 30 minutes, and those effects can be more severe on children because their bodies warm faster than adults.

Other heat related fatalities can be easily prevented by taking various steps to be prepared for the hot weather. IEMA says to stay hydrated by drinking at least 1 ½ to 2 quarts of fluids daily, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Also avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks containing caffeine when the mercury goes up. You can also take advantage of “cooling centers”, such as public pools, air-conditioned stores and malls, and movie theaters during extreme heat. Even a few hours a day in air conditioning can help prevent heat-related illnesses.

For additional tips on how to protect yourself and others from heat-related illness, you can visit the state’s Ready Illinois website at ready.illinois.gov.

There will be many benefits to the completion of the Illinois Route 29 expansion project. One of which will be a new truck stop in Edinburg. Mike Bell with the Illinois Route 29 Project Committee spoke with Regional Radio News and shared the story on how that part of the Route 29 project came to be.

The truck stop will have a second business attached to it as well. Bell said how the truck stop will include an eatery, and how together the truck stop and eatery will bring full time jobs to the Edinburg area.

Bell said how the truck stop and eatery will help bring more business to the areas along the Illinois Route 29 corridor.

There was a single vehicle accident in Taylorville recently that resulted in the driver being taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment. At approximately 11:36 am on July 6^th, the Taylorville Police Department responded to a single vehicle crash in the 400 Block of West Main Cross. The driver, 30 year old Tyler D. Whitenburg, struck a utility pole causing damage to the vehicle he was driving. EMS responded to the scene, and Whitenburg was transported to Taylorville Memorial Hospital to be treated for possible injuries. Ameren Illinois was contacted for damage to the pole, and the vehicle was towed from the scene.

The Christian County Fair is on its way with events spanning from July 26th through the 30th. While the tractor pull, demolition derby, and pageants are a great time, one portion that is a huge part of any fair, especially the Christian County Fair, is the Livestock and Agriculture shows. Lee Mateer, Livestock Superintendent of the Christian County Fair, said the week is jam packed with livestock and agriculture events and shows.

Mateer said that the 4H part of the fair is really important because kids are able to show off what they love to do and it helps kids learn how to raise livestock and vegetation to get the new generation of farmers prepared for a career that might be ahead of them.

For more information and daily events for the Christian County Fair, visit christiancountyfair.com. Mateer recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Drug use has been a problem in and around Christian County, and one group is doing their best to put a stop to it. The Christian County Prevention Coalition has many subgroups that focus in on certain aspects of the community to try to create an impact and make the community safer for kids as they grow. Dennis Metsker, Member of the Christian County Prevention Coalition, said the organization is there to help anyone in the community, but focus in on the youth and give them a community that is free of substance abuse.

Mestker said the CPCC only meets every other month, but it has sub groups including the one he is a part of, the Impact Group that meets more often.

For more information on the CPCC or any of their subgroups, contact Metsker at 217-254-5027 or email him at dmdm5027@gmail.com. Metsker was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

After a scene investigation, autopsy, and toxicology results Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans has released the cause of death of 37 year old Crystal Wicker, of Pana as a Heroin Intoxication.  Her death was determined to be accidental.  Ms. Wicker was found dead in her home in Pana on June 12, 2016.  Pana Police Department and Christian County Coroner's office handled the investigation.

With a stopgap budget in place various IDOT road works projects are safe, and can resume construction. One of those projects is the local Illinois Route 29 Project. Mike Bell with the Route 29 Project Committee spoke with Regional Radio News recently, and said how the Route 29 Project Committee’s meeting with IDOT last week went well, and how it was nice to know that the Route 29 Project as well as many other roadworks projects across the state will continue uninterrupted.

Bell said how there are many reasons to complete the Route 29 expansion, including driver safety, along with various economic benefits as well.

Bell relayed that the Illinois Route 29 Project is expected to be completed by the fall months.

Many towns all across central Illinois celebrated the Fourth of July holiday with parades, fireworks displays, and other holiday festivities. One of the towns that had holiday activities lined up was Herrick. Miller Media Group’s Michael Pickett was on location broadcasting from the Herrick Fourth of July festival, and spoke with many different people associated with the festival. One of whom was Yvonne Mathias with the Fourth of July Committee for the town of Herrick, who gave some insight into how the community came together to help put on the event.

Mathias said how she was proud of her town to be able to put on a festival like the one Herrick puts on.

The 4^th of July Festivities in Herrick wrapped up with a fireworks show at Dusk.

As Congressman Rodney Davis' re-election date comes closer, it is important that he notices and notes local issues that citizens in his district, and especially in his hometown of Taylorville are presenting. Davis said that one of the main issues he's worked on was getting the federal gas tax dollars to go back to the state of Illinois by getting a long term transportation bill passed.

Davis said his office is already beginning to look ahead by getting bills passed, and helping reform other bills like “No Child Left Behind.”

More information on Davis, things his office is working on and getting passed, and more can be found at rodneydavis.house.gov. Davis was recently a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

While the country just celebrated National Dairy Month in June, the month of July is also a time to celebrate for dairy lovers. July is National Ice Cream Month, with National Ice Cream Day coming on the 17th. Joyce Fikri, Nutrition Educator for the St. Louis District Dairy Council said that National Ice Cream Month began in 1984, when President Ronald Reagan declared it, with National Ice Cream Day always being on the third Sunday in July. 

Fikri also mentioned that for people who may be watching their weight, or who may have restrictive diets, that they can still celebrate ice cream month because there are other types of ice cream that can accommodate those needs.

More information, special giveaways, and even a roasted strawberry malt milkshake recipe to help celebrate can be found at stldairycouncil.org or on their Facebook page at STL Dairy Council. Fikri recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and the Christian County Coroner Office are conducting a death investigation regarding the death of a Tower Hill toddler. On July 4^th at approximately 7:13 AM, Coles County 911 received a call and transferred to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office that a 2 year old boy was not breathing and was unresponsive in the 200 block of Champlain Street in Tower Hill. The boy was taken to Pana Community Hospital E.R. where he was pronounced dead at 8:05 AM. Preliminary investigation shows the 2 year old was wedged in between the top bunk bed rail and the mattress when his father found him. An autopsy was scheduled for late Monday in Bloomington.

The State Legislature successfully passed a stop gap budget last week to ensure funding to critical aspects of the state government. Illinois Senator Chapin Rose who represents the 51th District in the Illinoi General Assembly spoke on the senate floor on the bill, saying how the stopgap budget will help fund higher education in the state.

Rose said how it was encouraging how the state legislature finally took an action that looked at all aspects of higher education funding.

The stopgap budget is a 6 month budget that will ensure that critical areas get the funding they need, and the state legislature will attempt to pass another budget after the elections in November.

The Taylorville 4th of July Parade and Fireworks display will be taking place today. Lineup for the parade starts at 9AM at the Christian County Fairgrounds. The Parade is typically sponsored by a local veterans group, with the sponsorship this year coming from AMVETS. Gwen Diehl, Finance Officer for AMVETS Post 29 spoke with Regional Radio News recently, and shared some details on AMVETS.

The parade usually has a theme. NAME told Regional Radio News how this year’s parade theme is “Show Your Colors”, where spectators and participants are encouraged to dress up in red white and blue, or your military colors if you are a veteran.

There is a chance of rain for today's festivities; however the current plan is that the parade will go on, unless the weather gets too bad. Should that happen, Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle informed Regional Radio News that the Parade will be canceled with no makeup date. Should the weather also not cooperate with the fireworks at Taylorville Lake, the plan is to postpone the show until the following day.

Memorial Medical Center will be hosting their 12^th annual 5k to benefit kidney and pancreas transplant patients. The event begins at 9am on Saturday, September 17^th at Washington Park in Springfield. Sarah Danner, Transplant Financial Coordinator for Memorial Medical Center spoke with Regional Radio News and gave some details on the event and how you can register to participate in it.

Danner shared how the money that the event raises stays local, and helps patients at Memorial Medical Center.

If you’d like to register to participate in the event, you can do so online at memorialtransplantservices.com. You can also print out a registration form and mail it in. You can register on the day of the event, however if you’d like to reserve a t-shirt for participating, registrations are recommended to be turned in by August 26^th.

44 year old Billie Joe Baker of Taylorville was arraigned in Pennsylvania this week. Baker is accused of kidnapping 17 year old Rachel Barrish, and inflicting bodily injuries on her. Baker faces up to 20 years in prison for the charges. Authorities had been searching for two months, when the pair was found during a traffic stop by the Pennsylvania State Police. 

New details have been released in the case of a Taylorville Police Officer arrested on domestic battery charges last week. The Skokie Police Department have released the full report on the incident, which states that the offender, Anthony Telford, struck his wife Margaret Telford in the face with a closed fist and choked her with two hands following an argument. Regional Radio News will have more details on the case and investigation as they are released.

The state has a budget but it hasn’t lost the partisan politics that went into leaving Illinois as the only state in the nation to go more than a full year without one. Governor Bruce Rauner says he wants to build on the consensus that was found in the General Assembly. 



Election Day in November will clearly stand in the way of progress on the budget or any other of Rauner’s turn around agenda items. The real work and any more flashes of real compromise will more than likely wait until then.

The state has a budget – now on to the elections! Any goodwill created by two sides coming together for near unanimous support for the stop gap spending plan will evaporate quickly in the contentious General Assembly. It might have already happened. Once all the votes were counted Speaker of the House Mike Madigan says that it’s the budget and only the budget that should be focus of lawmakers.

Madigan was clearly sending the message that he still isn’t willing to consider the Governor’s turn around agenda items. Election Day is 130 days away.

The Fourth of July is this upcoming Monday and Lake Shelbyville is ready and prepared to celebrate along with the rest of the community. But one thing that they want kept in mind during the holiday weekend is being safe no matter how someone decides to celebrate. Phil Manhart, Assistant Manager at Lake Shelbyville, said this weekend is the busiest weekend of the year at the lake, and safety is their number one priority.

Manhart said the lake has a lot of activities planned for the weekend, including a movie, and reptile program Sunday night, being in a parade on Monday, and fireworks Monday night.

For more information on all the events the lake is having for Independence Day weekend, find them on Facebook at Lake Shelbyville USACE. Manhart recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Shelbyville has 4th of July events planned all over the town, and the Chamber of Commerce is in charge of one of the event areas. Vonda McConnell, CEO of the Greater Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce, said that there aren't as many events planned this year as there would be when the Fourth falls on the weekend, but there is still enough to enjoy and make the holiday a fun one.

McConnell praised the local businesses of Shelbyville because for many years they have funded the fireworks show for Independence Day by donating money. She also said the Chamber will be taking donations all day throughout the event.

The Chamber sponsored events will be taking place at West Dam on Monday. McConnell recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Chautauqua building in Shelbyville is one of the more historic buildings in the area, but it almost always has an event planned and something to look forward to throughout the month. This month a play will be held at the Chautauqua building on July 22nd and 23rd. The Director, Angie Jefferies, said the play poses a few unique dilemmas, that most wouldn't usually see in a storytelling play.

Jefferies said there is a problem that the Chautauqua building plays have to be ready for. A train usually passes by during the middle of the play, so the actors have always prepared a scene for when that happens.

“What Happened After Once Upon a Time” will be at the Chautauqua building in Shelbyville on Friday July 22nd at 7:00 and Saturday July 23rd at 4:00. Jefferies recently appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

After a scene investigation, autopsy, and toxicology results Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans has released the cause of death 25 year old Charles A. Stevens, of Kincaid as Heroin Intoxication.  Mr. Stevens died in his home on June 11, 2016.  Kincaid Police Department and Christian County Coroner office handled the death investigation.