The Illinois Sheriff’s Association is inviting citizens to become Associate Members of the ISA, and will be sending out membership appeals in the mail. Individuals who wish to become Associate Members can do so for $25, with business membership costing $50, and that tax deductible donation goes to help fund the ISA with various expenses such as training.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says becoming an associate member helps the Illinois Sheriff’s Association tremendously.

The money donated goes to help fund training with the Illinois Sheriff’s Association, as well as other things such as scholarship opportunities offered to high school and college students.

The donations for joining are tax deductible, and can start the process by calling their local sheriff, or the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association in Springfield.

The membership program was formed to provide citizens with an opportunity to lend their support to more effective law enforcement, and to help local law enforcement officers protect the lives and property of citizens.

Summer is right around the corner and for Shelbyville, that means several events are quickly approaching as well. One of those events is the Shelby County Art Show. The show is a great way to see some of the artwork from fellow citizens in the various communities in Shelby County.

Carol Kessler, a Shelbyville business owner and head of the art fair had some history on how the art show got it's start, and some of the changes that have happed with the show over the years.

The art show was funded by an outside source for a number of years, but has recently been able to fund itself partially due to the charitable donations of members of the community.

Kessler appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our Downtown Shelbyville Studios.

Many towns and communities are looking to improve themselves, and that's particularly true in Shelby County. The Shelby County town of Windsor has created a group named WHAT, or Windsor Happenings Around Town. The group works to help push the town in the direction that it wants to go.

Maria Schaffer with the WHAT program joined the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show Live from our Downtown Shelbyville Studios, and said the program got started after the town worked with a group from a local university.

Many may think of Windsor as a sleepy little town, but the town actually has many fun events throughout the year. One of those upcoming events is the “Princess Reading Event”, that is designed to help young girls feel more like a princess.

The Princess Reading Event takes place on April 8^th.

April 4^th is fast approaching and that means that local elections are right around the corner. One of the candidates running for Taylorville Mayor is Victor Pop. Pop is a long-time Taylorville resident, and feels he is the best candidate to move Taylorville forward.

Each candidate had the chance to address potential voters at the Taylorville Mayoral Forum, where Pop shared his background with the city, and credited his teachers for his education.

Pop said something that Taylorville needs is more jobs. He discussed how Taylorville has seen many factories shut down over the years, without any new ones to replace them.

If elected, Pop wants to introduce more TIF districts in town. He said these districts are critical to help the city bring in business, and be able to rebuild the town.

Western Illinois Congresswoman Cheri Bustos calling for an independent investigation into President Trump’s ties to Russia and Vladimir Putin’s regime. 

Bustos made her remarks on the House Floor on Wednesday. 

Comptroller Susana Mendoza is appealing a Cook County judge's ruling ordering that state lawmakers get paid and on time. Mendoza wants limited dollars going to the state's most vulnerable before lawmakers. Her predecessor Leslie Munger has rarely been on the same page as Mendoza, but she agrees with the decision. The agreement ends there.

Munger says Mendoza should have taken an additional step beyond appealing the ruling.
 

Mendoza issued her appeal through Attorney General Lisa Madigan's office Tuesday. Last week, the judge ruled in favor of lawmakers who sued Munger when she was Comptroller. 

Today a number of agriculture groups came to the state capitol to address issues important to the state’s biggest business. And Governor Bruce Rauner briefly addressed the group. Rauner continued to push for term limits and a better business climate. But he also said that when he’s considering bills he always thinks of one group.



Rauner said that right now at a critical time in the state’s history and all the General Assembly wants to do is talk about raising taxes.

Illinois will continue to improve its anti-hate curriculum in schools. Today the Governor and state Education Secretary Beth Purvis say they will work with the Simon Wiesenthal Center to update their anti-hate school lesson plans. 

Officials say after a series of nationwide threats and attacks made to Jewish centers and on Jewish cemeteries they needed to refocus their efforts on education.

More state budget talks in Springfield. State Senator Chuck Weaver of Dunlap details the latest Republican proposal.

The state has been operating without a budget for two years. 

Voters are concerned about a number of issues in the city of Taylorville, and are looking to elect representatives that will work on correcting those issues. One of the major issues that voters are looking at is the crumbling infrastructure in the city of Taylorville. Lee Lanzotti is running for City Alderman for Ward 2, and wants to work towards fixing things like the roads and sewers in town.

Lanzotti spent many years working as an engineer, and has a project in mind for town that he says will greatly benefit the city. He also wants to take care of the subdivisions that the town currently has, before focusing on adding additional subdivisions to Taylorville.

Lanzotti says the roads in town need to be fixed, but understands that there are several issues that the city needs to consider before beginning work, and that solution isn't quite as simple as it seems.

Lanzotti appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce's Annual Awards Banquet is quickly approaching, and there is still time to make your reservations to attend. The banquet will feature a dinner, a guest speaker, and the presentation of various awards including outstanding citizen of the year, and boss of the year.

Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Taylorville Chamber said the banquet has a rich history, and this year has a fun theme.

The night also plays host to the Chamber's Awards Ceremony. Hornbuckle shared that there is still time to nominate someone for the various community awards that will be given, and urged that people nominate their peers.

Hornbuckle appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

The University of Illinois Extension have several seminars coming up for those who are interested in learning more about a variety of subjects. One seminar will focus on “specialty food producers”, where guests can learn more about the production process of specialty food items, often found at farmer's markets, with another seminar focusing more on the use of the web and social media to promote your business.

Terry Miller, Publicist with the U of I Extension joined the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show, where she shared more details on these seminars. She said with the specialty food producers seminar how people can learn more about the various items often found sold at farmer's markets. Miller said she feels the recent movement towards locally grown food is a step in the right direction.

The other seminar focuses on the use of social media in business, and how it can help improve the business-customer relationship.

Those interested in attending either seminar can get more information, or sign up on the University of Illinois Extension's website.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is offering a “Swing Bed” program to help patients with their recovery process, and get them home. The program offers patients additional care when they no longer need acute hospital care, but are not quite ready to return home.

Swing Bed Program Manager Becky Erlenbush shared what kind of patients should consider the Swing Bed program.

Erlenbush said the program has gotten a lot of positive feedback, and that the program has a more relaxed atmosphere that tailors it’s care to each patient’s needs.

If you’d like more information on the swing bed program at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, visit TaylorvilleMemorial.org, or call 824-1130.

Regional Radio News has learned that a series of power outages have occured across the Regional Radio News listening area. Ameren Illinois estimates that over 2,000 customers are currently effected. There is currently no word on when power is expected to be restored, however Regional Radio News will have more details once they become available.

A Western Illinois farmer gets an audience with the House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management. Ron Moore of Roseville is the President of the American Soybean Association. He spoke on the 2018 Farm Bill and the importance of crop insurance being a part of it.

And Moore also believes the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP and commonly referred to as food stamps, should remain under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Moore was introduced by Western Illinois Congresswoman Cheri Bustos, who serves on the House Ag Committee. The 2014 Farm Bill expires in September of 2018. 

On the 10 year anniversary of passing a bill to prohibit smoking in restaurants, office buildings and other places some state lawmakers want to raise the minimum age to buy cigarettes and other tobacco products to 21. The American Lung Association’s Kathy Drea says retailers will lose out on some business but it’s a sale worth not making.



You can now buy and possess tobacco when you’re 18 in Illinois. The city of Chicago already has a local ordinance that establishes 21 as the smoking age. 

A poll of Illinois and other voters around the country shows that Democrats and Republicans mostly agree on one thing -- the importance of sustainability -- and farming as one of the most sustainable of all economic sectors. Washington, DC based Morning Consult, which conducts polls for the likes of Bloomberg and Politico, has found 75-percent of Democratic and 80-percent of Republican voters surveyed believe agriculture is sustainable. Pollster spokesman Tyler Sinclair;

Sinclair says 59-percent of those registered voter polled trust farmers to make the right decisions when it comes to environmental sustainability;

About two-thousand registered voters responded to the poll conducted last month on behalf of the American Farm Bureau.

The Illinois State Police is celebrating 95 years of service and Governor Rauner wants to give the gift of new cadets.

With Chicago violence continuing to make national headlines, Rauner plans to deploy troopers north of I-80.

Rauner is declaring Saturday Illinois State Police Day in honor of the anniversary. 

April 4^th is fast approaching and that means that local elections are right around the corner. One of the candidates running for Taylorville Mayor is Ray Koonce. Koonce previously served as Taylorville City Alderman from 2011 to 2015, and feels that his experience with the city makes him the best candidate for Mayor.

Each candidate had the chance to address potential voters at the Taylorville Mayoral Forum, where Koonce shared his background with the city and various other organizations.

Koonce discussed his history in the city government, and some of the issues he had a hand in fixing in the past.

If elected, Koonce wants to focus on several key areas, including growing the economy, and correcting some of the issues the city is facing. He also said he wants to improve the ability for voters to bring thoughts and concerns to the Mayor’s office.

Several candidates have stepped up in the race for Taylorville Alderman for Ward 2, including Kurt Zeitler. Zeitler got involved in the race because he wants to help make Taylorville the best town it can be, and believes he can help solve some of the problems that the citizens in Ward 2 and Taylorville altogether are facing.

Zeitler said he feels now is the time to get involved in local politics to help ensure that Taylorville continues to be a great place to live.

There was some misconceptions as to where Zeitler plans to donate his salary to should he win the position. He said he plans on spreading it around, but has a couple of places in mind that are near and dear to his heart.

Kurt Zeitler appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Local elections take place next week and one of the many positions up for grabs in Taylorville is for City Clerk. Current City Clerk Pam Peabody has decided to retire, and candidate Tanya Reno feels her experience makes her the best fit for the job.

Reno discussed her background working in various legal offices, and how many of her current duties are similar to what a city clerk does.

Some may be unaware of what exactly a city clerk's responsibilities include. Reno gave a basic rundown of the position.

Tanya Reno appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Whether you have something to sell or are looking to buy something, auction houses can be a fun and helpful way to go about it. Aumann Auctions is looking to bring a local focus to the auction process.

Tom Chi, Jeremy Piatt, and Matt Corso joined the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show to discuss what Aumann Auctions is doing to help those who want to buy and sell their items. Corso gave some history on Aumann Auctions, and said the company is looking to do more locally.

Corso continued saying the company expanded outwards recently, but missed doing business back at home, and that they enjoy doing business within their own community.

For more information on Aumann Auctions, visit them online at AumannAuctions.com.

A Shelby County teen has been convicted of aggravated battery in the case of thirteen year old Alexis Williams, who died of an asthma attack within hours of a fight that occurred on June 17^th. A Shelby County Judge found the teen guilty last week, saying that the case was “sad”.

Witnesses have said a fight broke out in Forrest Park in Shelbyville following a verbal argument between Williams and the teen. The Teen said that Williams had said many hurtful words towards her prior to the fight, and seemed to be troubled, having self inflicted injuries on her arms.

Sentencing has been scheduled for June 5^th.

Los Rancheros Mexican Restaurant in Taylorville’s four year anniversary is approaching, and the restaurant has plans to celebrate with the community. Los Rancheros will have a variety of drink specials and music for it’s customers this Saturday to say thanks for the support since they opened.

Eric Hernandez, one of the Managers at Los Rancheros said they have specials for just about everyone, and want their customers to know how much they’re appreciated.

Hernandez said on top of the anniversary specials, they will be offering their regular Saturday specials as well. Customers will also be treated to live music that evening.

(Taylorville)--The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held their business meeting to review current Kiwanis Club activities for children and youth in the community at their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium. The guest speaker was Cathy Coker with Loving Arms.

Coker opened up the conversation by stating Loving Arms’ mission: The mission of Loving Arms is sharing the love of Christ while promoting sexual integrity and bringing life-affirming services to those unprepared for pregnancy or hurt by abortion. The local center opened on Mother’s Day in 1999 and all services provided by Loving Arms are free of charge. Coker went on to explain that all the services fall into one of three categories: intervention, prevention, and recovery. Some of the intervention products and services include free on-site pregnancy tests, diapers, formula, and other baby items in the baby boutique. Prevention services include many classes and programs. Classes are held at the Jr. and Sr. High School level up to relationship classes and options counseling at the adult level; furthermore, classes and mentoring programs are provided for both moms and dads alike. Coker talked about an eight week class on recovery services that helps clients cope with past decisions and provide hope for the future. In closing, Coker talked about funding in that they receive no government funding and that the organization receives donations from churches, individuals, groups, and thousands of volunteer hours each year. Most importantly, loving arms is a place where you can find listening ears, compassionate hearts, and willing hands that support individuals and families through an unplanned pregnancy. For more information log onto lacpc.com or call 824-7200.

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.

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation is continuing work on a number of potential projects that would benefit Taylorville, and help the city and county grow. One issue the CCEDC faces however, is that often those projects take time to put together, and that can lead to frustration from the public, and a perceived lack of progress on these issues.

Mary Renner, Executive Director of the CCEDC did have an update on the proposed Cobblestone Hotel project. Renner says the company behind the hotel is waiting on a potential TIF to be in place before they decide to go any further with the project.

Often a project takes some time before coming to fruition. Renner said this typically leads to frustration from the public with the CCEDC.

April 4^th is fast approaching and that means that local elections are right around the corner. One of the candidates running for Taylorville Mayor is Rob Heberling. Heberling is currently an Alderman on the Taylorville City Council, a position he’s held for the past eight years, and believes the work he’s done during that time is why he should be elected mayor.

Each candidate had the chance to address potential voters at the Taylorville Mayoral Forum, where Heberling said he has deep roots in the community, and understands that he works for Taylorville, and not himself.

Heberling discussed some of the improvements the constituents he represents as well as the city itself has seen, including improvements made to the city’s storm sewer lines.

Heberling said the number one concern he hears about from citizens is the physical condition of the city. He says if elected, he will continue the city’s efforts to clean up the city.

The Illinois High School Football Coaches Association inducts its latest Hall of Fame class this weekend. Among the inductees is Tim Engebretson, who led United High School to a state title in 2004. He says the honor gives him a perfect time to reflect on his career.

The ceremony is Saturday at the University of Illinois. Other inductees include Ric Arrand, David Young, Scott Hamilton, Ken Joggerst, Dirk Smid, Brett Kooi, Tim Lafferty, Jerry Blew, Joe Ryan, Eric Michaelsen, Tom Vargos, Hal Chiodo and Antwyne Golliday, Sr.

Midway through the legislative session, House Minority Leader Jim Durkin says the spring isn't bringing a sense of renewal to the process of hammering out a budget. He is especially disappointed with a lack of progress on pension reform.

Durkin is also concerned that some lawmakers seem to suffer from defeatism or something else.

Illinois FFA continues to honor students for their work-based learning. It’s called Supervised Agriculture Experiences and the organization recognized state proficiency winners in fifty different areas last weekend in Champaign. Nicholas Close of Aledo was tops in the state in the category of Diversified Crop Production Entrepreneurship.

Close, along with the 49 other state FFA winners, are now eligible to compete in the National FFA Awards Selection process in July. 

Recently President Donald Trump announced his proposed budget. The budget has been met with a mix of praise and criticism, although many wonder what kind of impact the budget would have on things like the deficit, and the national debt.

Jim Bohannon, host of the Jim Bohannan Show heard on Newstalk WTIM thinks although President Trump got many things right with this budget, such as increasing defense spending, it also raises some questions, such as how to pay for the projects the President has stated he wants to do.

Bohannon said if you pair the budget with the proposed tax cuts by the Trump Administration, questions quickly come up as to what it would mean for things like the deficit and the national debt.

Jim Bohannon appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

The work on Illinois Route 29 between Springfield and Taylorville has recently been completed, and with that, the speed limit was increased slightly as well. The Illinois State Police want to remind people that although the increased speeds are okay, excessive speeding is not, and can be a huge danger to yourself and to others.

Illinois State Trooper Sean Ramsey joined the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show to discuss the issue of speeding. The ISP would like to ask people to slow down, and remind that the speed limit between Rochester and Springfield is still 55.

Along with the increased dangers speeding pose, excessive speeding can also lead to misdemeanor criminal charges as well.

Along with slowing down, Ramsey wanted to remind everyone to keep an eye open for motorcycles out on the road in the warmer weather, as they can be much harder to see than cars out on the roadways.

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

Sometime on Tuesday, March 21, 2017, person or persons unknown made entry into a residence located 532 West Vine Street.  While inside, the unknown subject or subjects took a tan, mid-sized refrigerator and a small pocketbook containing papers.  The subject or subjects may have been in an older model, white, Dodge pick-up.  There did not appear to be any damage done while making entry.  The total dollar amount of the theft is unknown at this time. 

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 our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.  

State Senator Andy Manar is promoting a school funding reform measure similar to a plan developing in the Illinois House. Manar's Senate Bill 1 would introduce an evidence-based model for funding Illinois schools, something recommended by the governor’s bipartisan school funding reform commission.

The new school funding system under the Manar plan would reduce reliance on local property taxes. Manar says the bill has a strong bipartisan flavor.

Under the evidence based model, the state would determine an adequate amount of per-pupil funding for each school district based on the traits of each district. A new base minimum funding level would ensure no district would lose any state funding. 

The Community College Board wants to make it a little easier for students looking at career and technical training. The board says students will now have better access when looking for specific classes. CCB Spokesman Matt Berry says they have pledged that all 39 community college districts will let students take classes anywhere for in district rates, as long as the class someone wants isn’t offered in their home district. 

Will the drive in and out of Chicago for hundreds of thousands possibly get a little better? The Governor wants lawmakers to move forward on a plan that would build additional lanes on I-55 otherwise known as the Stevenson. The catch is they would be for paying motorists only. The future I-55 would have a toll lane each way, only drivers that were willing to pay. Bruce Rauner says the go-ahead needs to be approved this week to secure private funding needed for the project.



Approval wouldn’t seem likely this week. The Speaker of the House Mike Madigan says that he hasn’t seen enough information about the project to move it forward. IDOT says that in all the project should cost about $425 million.

The demand for farm machinery remains strong on the secondary market. Auctioneer Dale Jones had nearly 600 registered bidders on-site last Saturday at a consignment auction in Aledo that featured a large number of ag implements.

Among the top items.

The auction also featured another 100-plus bidders on-line. 

A Seaton, Illinois teenager continues to rack up wins on the livestock show circuit. Dalton Line and “Wacky Wade” picked up their latest Grand Champion Steer honors this past weekend at the Western Illinois University Hoof & Horn Jackpot Show. Line started the year by winning the Illinois Beef Expo in February.

Also this year, Line and “Wacky Wade” have Grand Champion Steer wins at the ISU Redbird Challenge and University of Illinois Spring Showdown as well as the AGR Spring Showdown and Steers and Stripes Classic in Sedalia, Missouri.

April 4^th is fast approaching and that means that local elections are right around the corner. One of the candidates running for Taylorville Mayor is Tim Calvert. Calvert may not have experience with city government, but feels his time in management in the food industry and community involvement with Eagles makes him a good fit for the job.

Each candidate had the chance to address potential voters at the Taylorville Mayoral Forum, where Calvert gave a background on his experience in the city.

Calvert discussed his involvement with the community, and the many organizations and activities that Eagles has helped with and donated to.

Calvert said if elected, he wants to make the transition as smooth as possible, but will make changes if necessary.

The Taylorville Park Board met at the Manners Park Board Room Monday night. At the meeting the board learned of savings for the new lights the board previously approved to be installed throughout Manners Park. The project was originally expected to cost around $11,000, but diligent shopping around from Park Board Office Administrator Mary Ann Becker managed to cut that cost tremendously.

Becker told the board she decided to shop around for the project, and found comparable lights at a much lower cost. All together, the savings for the project due to the new lights will be around $5,200.

The lights are already ordered, and the board is also expecting to be partially reimbursed for the project, bringing the costs down even further.

Becker was asked how she managed to find the savings. She told the board she found the new lights in a catalog she receives at a much lower cost, and even managed to add on additional savings to the order as well.

The next meeting of the Taylorville Park Board will take place on April 24^th.

Those looking for help to plan a large event such as a wedding or graduation ceremony can contact Megan Dain Weddings and Events in Taylorville. Megan Dain Megan Cole, owner of the event planning business will help you plan your event no matter how hands on or off you would like to be during the planning process.

Whether or not you have a detailed idea in mind, or just a vague idea of a theme for your event, Cole and her business can help.

Cole said she had thought about getting into event planning for some time, but planning out her own wedding was the experience she needed to make the decision to start her business.

Megan Cole appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Pana Community Hospital is working to give the best experience and care it can across all departments, including their Emergency Department. The department is working to keep wait times low, and the quality of care high, and urge residents to come into the ER if they feel they need emergency care.

One concern among many when they head to the emergency room is how long it will take to be seen. Greg Hager, Manager of Pana Community Hospital Outpatient Services joined the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show and said at Pana Community Hospital, they try to keep wait times to under ten minutes, and had several methods such as a triage system to help achieve that goal.

Sometimes though wait times and frustrations can grow as patients waiting to be seen in the ER get passed up by other patients who may have arrived after they have. Hager asked those heading to the ER to be patient, as there may be others arriving after them, that have more serious issues.

Hagar also said that people experiencing certain symptoms such as stroke like symptoms should get to the ER as soon as they can, so the hospital can give them medications to help as soon as possible.

Hagar added that even if Pana Community Hospital needs to transfer you to another, larger hospital for care, they are still capable of stabilizing your conditions, and that visiting the Pana Community Hospital ER is still your best bet to get the care you need in as timely a manner as possible.

Local elections are nearly here, and one question several of the candidates have had for Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton, is for his endorsement. Mayor Brotherton has purposely declined these requests, saying he doesn't want anybody making their voting decisions based on his actions.

Mayor Brotherton said while appearing on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show that he wants voters to research the candidates and come to their own decision on who they want to vote for.

Brotherton did say he values experience for the position, partially due to the huge turnover the city government will experience this election. One position up for grabs is City Clerk, as Pam Peabody who currently holds that position has decided to retire. Mayor Brotherton praised the job Peabody has done, and says whoever is elected to the job has big shoes to fill.

Mayor Brotherton also added that he is encouraged to see that all of the candidates running for office seem to have a vested interest in the city, and that all candidates seem to be running in order to help the city continue to grow.

April 4^th is fast approaching and that means that local elections are right around the corner. One of the candidates running for Taylorville Mayor is Bruce Barry. Barry feels his experience on the School Board and as President of the Taylorville Sanitary district make him the best candidate in the election.

Each candidate had the chance to address potential voters at the Taylorville Mayoral Forum, where Barry gave a background on his experience in the city.

Barry wants to change the way the city funds civic and club organization events. Barry says he’s already received pledges for the city to use for these events rather than tax dollars.

Barry also wants the city government to become more proactive in growing the city and become more transparent with city organizations about where their funding comes from.

With a vote on the April 4^th Taylorville School Tax Referendum looming Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp is worried about the future of youth in the community should it fail. The Sheriff is also concerned about recent developments in the state government that push towards the legalization of marijuana, saying that legalizing it sends the wrong message to our kids.

Sheriff Kettelkamp says marijuana is the second most used drug among youth today. He says he doesn’t understand why there has been a push towards legalization, due to the message that sends to teens.

Kettelkamp said he doesn’t believe that drug addicts should be in prison, and wanted to clear up the misconception that a possession charge leads to jail time.

Kettelkamp discussed his experience with drug addicts, and some of the problems drugs cause in people’s lives. He said although drug addicts shouldn’t be in prison, the people supplying the drugs should be.

Sheriff Kettelkamp appeared on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show

Ameren Illinois is working to build a smarter power grid in Taylorville and across the state to help keep customers light’s on when something goes wrong. The company recently installed new devices known as an IntelliRupter to better manage the flow of electricity in the city.

George Justice, Ameren Illinois Division Director covering Taylorville says the IntelliRupters minimize the amount of time customers are without electricity, and possibly prevent a loss of power altogether

.

Justice said the devices can detect where a problem has occurred, and re-route electricity to minimize the impact of that problem.

Ultimately these devices can lead to large reductions in affected customers during an outage.

Ultimately Ameren aims to build a better power grid and reduce the number of power interruptions for it’s customers.

The State Department has approved the Keystone XL oil pipeline, an Illinois Congressman says it’s good news for the nation and our local workers. The permit was issued Friday morning, giving the official green-light for the project that has been the center of a political tog-of-war for nearly a decade.

While TransCanada now has the blessing of the government, it must still come to agreements with landowners, gain state permits, and face possible court challenges. Mike Bost, a Republican from the 12th district says this approval was the last major regulatory hurdle to getting the project moving.

Bost tells says pipelines are the safest way to move crude oil.

The only remaining holdup now appears to be in Nebraska, where the pipeline still does not have a legal route through the state. Bost believes that situation will be rectified fairly quickly.

Governor Rauner's office reveals more than a million Illinoisans looking for work have new worries. 1.4 million job seekers may have had their personal information compromised March 14th after a state employment security department vendor was hacked. The hacker may have accessed the names, social security numbers and birthdates of job seekers in the vendor's database. Authorities say Illinois may be one of ten states impacted by the hack of America's Job Link.

The Boys and Girls Club around Illinois say a critical program may be cut if President Donald Trump’s proposed budget moves forward. The budget item – the 21st Century Community Learning Centers – provides Illinois about $52 million a year in funding and a portion goes to the Boys and Girls Clubs sites that are located inside of schools. Central Illinois Boys and Girls Club Executive Director Bill Legee says if those locations go away student performance will suffer.



The sites, located often located in schools, focus on having certified tutors to help students with afterschool homework, they provide a snack for the kids and a safe environment for them to be in while they often wait for a parent to come home from work. 

One of college basketball’s most legendary coaches has Illinois roots. Adolph Rupp coached for over 40 years at the University of Kentucky. His job before that—teacher and coach at a small high school in Stephenson County in Northern Illinois says Sports Director Brian Reusch at WCCI radio in in Savanna, Illinois.

Rupp, a Kansas native, heard about the Kentucky opening through the University of Illinois basketball coach, who spoke at the Freeport basketball banquet in 1930. Before Freeport, Rupp coached wrestling at small town Marshalltown, Iowa. 

The Taylorville Police Department is partnering with McDonalds to give citizens a chance to get to know their local police department a little better. Coffee for Cops is an event where residents can join members of the Taylorville Police Department for free coffee, and discuss various subjects with officers in an effort to build a better relationship between the department and the community.

Taylorville Police Chief Brian Hile said the event, which will be on the morning of March 31^st at the Taylorville McDonalds, is a chance to get to know the officers in the Taylorville Police Department a little better.

Hile encouraged the community to attend for a free cup of coffee and a chance to chat with the Department.

Along with building a better relationship within the community, the public is welcome to bring any concerns or questions to the department during the event as well.

The department encourages all to attend whether you have a question, concern, or just want to say hello and meet some of the officers.

The Lake Land College Community Choir is inviting the public to attend their annual spring concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 26^th in the Lake Land College Theater. The event will feature several pieces, with guest appearances by Kevin Miescke (Miss-Key) from Eastern Illinois University, Bassist J.B. Faires, and Drummer Jay Ferguson.

Nancy Caldwell, Music Instructor at Lake Land College and Director of the Community Choir said the event is one of two concerts the choir performs per year, and invited the public to attend the event free of charge.

Caldwell had more information on the musical pieces being performed during the concert, including guest accompaniments on the french horn and Piano by Eastern Illinois Univeristy Instructor Kevin Miescke.

The choir is a community choir that the public can become involved in themselves. Caldwell said anybody can get involved as long as they’re 16 or older, and a part of the Lake Land College District.

Local service providers feeling the sting of the ongoing state budget stalemate. Downstate’s Mercer County Family Crisis Center has a limited budget, but is currently owed more than $100,000 from the state says the agency’s Marla Reynolds.

The center offers services to child abuse and domestic violence victims. Last week, Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza announced the state’s bill backlog hit a record high of $12.8 billion. 

The Western Illinois University School of Agriculture hosting an open house for prospective students this week. The Director--Dr. Andrew Baker says the school offers a strong pathway to many different ag careers. 

The open house is this Friday starting at 9 a.m. You can register on-line at wiu.edu and typing “School of Agriculture” in the search box. Two $250 scholarships will be awarded at the event. 

The state wants to get safer against cyber criminals. The Rauner administration has a new cyber security plan. The effort is devoted to boosting the states technology and protecting the state, the data it has and the citizens. Kirk Lonbom, the head of the Department of Innovation and Technology says that you can’t afford one slip up. 



The program and how it’s been paid for has drawn the ire of Comptroller Susana Mendoza. She claims the cash for the IT program is coming out of a fund that should be dedicated to paying healthcare providers. 

State Senator Chuck Weaver applauds the work of Governor Bruce Rauner’s Education Funding Task Force. Although critics say the group stopped short of reaching a clear-cut solution, the Dunlap Republican says the task force’s report provides a great starting point for lawmakers.

Weaver believes a bill can be passed as a result of the task force’s work. 

A number of Republican governors have come out against the new plan for federal healthcare up for a vote in Congress. But don’t count Bruce Rauner among them. Changes that D.C. Republicans want include block granting Medicaid. Rauner’s withholding strong public criticism for now, instead saying he’s having a number of private conversations about the change and the impact to Illinois.



Rauner says any transition to the new system needs to be done carefully to avoid hurting people’s lives if they will be losing Medicaid coverage.

The Taylorville Candidates Forum took place Wednesday night in the Taylorville Junior High School Gymnasium. Each candidate running for the offices of City Clerk, Ward 2 Alderman, and City Treasurer had a chance to address the crowd about why they felt they should be elected, and answer questions asked by the forum moderator.

After a short break, each candidate answered a “lightning round” of questions where they had five words to answer, as well as deliver their closing remarks. Newstalk WTIM broadcasted the forum live, as well as provided live video streaming of the event on the TaylorvilleDailyNews.com Facebook page. Watch for complete video coverage of the event on WTIMTV in the coming days.

Election Day is nearly here and candidates are beginning to put the final touches on their campaigns for elected office. One of those candidates is Taylorville City Alderman Rob Heberling, currently running for Taylorville Mayor. Heberling says if elected, he wants to continue the city’s efforts towards fiscal responsibility and cleaning up abandoned property.

One of the biggest issues Heberling says he hears from Taylorville citizens is how the city often looks “tired” due to the condition of many properties in the city.

Recently the city has ramped up efforts to clean up and demolish cluttered and vacant property. Heberling wants to continue this effort moving forward,

Taylorville City Alderman and Mayoral Candidate Rob Heberling appeared on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

March is Women’s History Month, and the Social Security Administration is taking the time to address women’s needs with social security. Nearly 60% of those who receive social security benefits are women, and the SSA has a number of programs on their website designed to help everyone receiving benefits, including women, to better plan their retirement.

Jack Myers, Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration appeared on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show, and wanted to highlight Women’s History Month for several reasons. These include the contributions women have made throughout history, as well as how the majority of those receiving social security benefits are women.

Myers pointed out how today more women than ever are working and paying into social security. The SSA website has a variety of tools to help those better plan their retirement.

Myers encouraged younger workers to get involved and to take advantage of the tools on the SSA website to better plan for their retirement.

The April 4^th local election is right around the corner and one item that many figures in the community are still pushing for is the Taylorville School Tax Referendum. Should the referendum fail, it would lead to a reduction in staff at Taylorville Schools, and shuttering all extracurricular programs at the school.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp is concerned about a possible rise in crime should the referendum fail, stating how an increase in free time for teens often leads to increases in local crime, and increased alcohol and drug abuse.

Christian County is attempting to quell a drug problem throughout the county. Sheriff Kettelkamp said he feels that problem may be getting worse, especially among teens. He fears that the issue will only get worse if extracurricular activities that help teens have to be canceled.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp appeared on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

NEWSTALK WTIM has announced it will broadcast the Taylorville Candidates Forum live on Wednesday night, starting at 6:30.

There are 4 candidates for Taylorville City Clerk, 3 candidates for Taylorville City Treasurer, and 4 candidates running for Taylorville Ward 2 Alderman.

The forum will be heard on 96.1 FM in Christian County, streamed live at taylorvilledailynews.com, and on the WTIM app on both iOS and Android platforms.

WTIM will also video stream the event live on its taylorvilledailynews.com Facebook page.

Tempers were heated and many questions were asked during Tuesday night’s meeting of the Christian County Board as County payroll system issues continue to be a problem. The board was presented with their 2016 audit review, with an item of concern coming from an IRS penalty for failed tax deposits, and where the money came from to pay that penalty.

Fiance Committee Chair Becky Edwards presented the issues with the audit to the board, sharing how a failure to make a proper federal tax deposit resulted in a fee of nearly $13,000.

County Clerk Laurie Mense, who’s office is responsible for the failed deposits, informed the board how issues with the new payroll system the county converted to early last year was the reason behind the missed deposits.

The penalty was ultimately paid using an account known as an “agency account” or an “in/out account”, which takes money from employee deductions. Several members of the board had questions about a lack of transparency of the entire process, as well as using the agency account to pay the fees. Mense informed the board that the previous county board had in fact discussed the issues with the payments, and said she wasn’t trying to hide anything.

The money that had been taken out of the agency account to pay the penalty has to be replenished. To do so, the County Clerk’s Office makes a claim with the county board to replenish those expenses. A move which as of the Finance Committee Meeting, had not yet been done. Mense said she had not yet been made aware of the need to file a claim, however had one ready to be voted on.

A motion to table the vote on the claim ultimately failed, with a motion to pay the claim made by the County Clerk’s office narrowly passing by a 9-7 vote. The next meeting of the Christian County Board will take place on April 18^th.

The Christian County Farm Bureau is working to improve ag awareness with a fun project for third and fourth graders. Students will have the opportunity to enter a coloring contest, where the winner will have their agriculture related picture featured on a reusable canvas bag that will be handed out during local farmers markets this summer.

The Christian County Farm Bureau’s Melissa McMillan and Matt Heberling appeared on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show to help spread the word for the contest. The winning entry to the contest will be featured on the bags that will be handed out at farmers markets in June.

The contest is a way to help spread awareness for agriculture, and is open to any third or fourth grade student.

The goal for the project is to have the bags at local farmers markets the morning of Saturday, June 3^rd.

The Christian County Farmers Supply is working in conjunction with their parent company Growmark, and the Christian County Farm Bureau to help bring awareness to split application of nitrogen. The 4R4U program will involve 12 projects with strategies to highlight various 4R practices at the local level throughout Illinois.

Darin Hennings with the Christian County Farmers Supply wants more people to know that FS customers are making an effort to be more environmentally friendly. Several farm operations are working with the 4R4U program to show the difference between the old way of applying nitrogen, and split application.

The total amount of Nitrogen used will remain the same, but the idea is that splitting up the application of nitrogen allows crops to utilize more of the nitrogen, and reduce the amount of excess nitrates running off into local watersheds. It’s a practice that most farmers in the area are already implementing.

The program is in an attempt to avoid any further litigation of fertilizer application in Illinois.

The University of Illinois Extension Office is working to better understand various strategies on the farm. The office recently received a grant they had applied for in conjunction with the Christian County Farm Bureau that will allow the Extension to expand their studies at the Extension’s Dudley Smith Farm.

Gary Letterly with the U of I Extension appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show’s live Ag Day coverage from the Christian County Farm Bureau and discussed the grant the Extension received. Several parties worked to secure the grant, which will help expand the research the Extension can do at the Dudley Smith Farm near Pana.

The farm recently began a project to study the impact of farmers implementing various nutrient loss reduction strategies on their operations.

The project will encompass around 40 acres of land, and will study how successful various nutrient loss reduction strategies are compared to the standard practice of nutrient application.

The Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch endured hours of grilling by members of the US Senate Judiciary Committee today. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin grilled Gorsuch on a decision that protected companies, including Hobby Lobby, who didn’t want to make birth control part of their employee health plan. 



Gorsuch is up for 3 more days of questioning and testimony about his qualifications to be a Supreme Court Justice. 

A state lawmaker wants to amend Illinois’ sales tax act as it relates replacement parts for farm machinery—already exempt from the state sales tax. State Representative Norine Hammond of Macomb says her legislation involves “goodwill repairs”.

House Bill 505 has been introduced in the House Revenue and Finance Committee. 

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources continues to offer hunter education safety courses throughout the state. Allen Henshaw of Keithsburg has served as a certified IDNR instructor for 40 years.

A 1996 state law requires that all hunters born on or after January 1, 1980 successfully complete the course before they can receive their first hunting license. You can find the location of a hunter safety education course near you by checking the IDNR website.

Illinois continues to be a good location for the wine industry. John Mital has a family operation just south of Quad Cities, called Creekside Vineyards & Winery.

Creekside’s Preemption location has been in operation for three years. Creekside has many retailers they do business with, plus Mital says they travel to farmers markets during spring and summer. 

Comptroller Susana Mendoza's war of words with Governor Bruce Rauner took a new turn as she addressed the City Club of Chicago. She turned to comedy to deliver her first jab.

But Mendoza says the latest numbers racked up last week on the state's bill backlog are no laughing matter.

Mendoza maintained Rauner is prepared for the state to collapse financially if he doesn't get his way on the budget and has begun squirreling away hundreds of millions of dollars in 'special funds' to protect his political back, Rauner's office says Mendoza has been cutting spending on programs for the elderly since she took office in December.

The Taylorville City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday night at the Taylorville Municipal Building. A short meeting was highlighted by motions addressing other municipalities borrowing city equipment, city employees, and remembering a prominent member of the community.

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton spoke with WTIMTV following the meeting where he explained exactly what the city did when it comes to loaning city equipment to other municipalities.

Another motion came out of discussion during the personnel committee preceding the night’s city council meeting regarding a city employee who had handed in their resignation, but had since changed their mind. Mayor Brotherton explained in further detail what the situation entailed.

There was some concern from several alderman on allowing the employee to rescind the resignation. Mayor Brotherton shared why, and what the city ultimately elected to do.

The city also held a moment of silence for a former member of the community, as well as a former city Alderman.

To view the complete interview with Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton, click on the WTIMTV icon at TaylorvilleDailyNews.com

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

Sometime between Thursday, March 16, 2017 and Friday, March 17, 2017, person or persons unknown made entry onto Laker Petroleum Services, located at 101 Baughman Road.  While there, the unknown subject or subjects took an all steel, red, 20 foot trailer.  The trailer was parked in the back area of the business at the time of the incident.

The total dollar amount of the theft is unknown at this time.

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 our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.  

Congressman Rodney Davis pushing a bill to help reauthorize the process of registering pesticides coming to the market. The bill has gained unanimous support so far at the committee level, and Davis hopes that the bipartisan support continues into the house and senate.

Congressman Davis appeared on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show, where he said this bill is unique in how it brought industry and environmentalist groups together in support of a common cause.

The process for the bill has moved forward smoothly, and Davis explained how those involved in this bill managed to make that happen.

Davis said this bill benefits both the environment, as well as industry, as it allows the EPA to continue to monitor what pesticides make it to market, and industry to continue to manufacture and sell pesticides to the parties that use it.

Davis stressed the importance of the bill, considering pesticide's use in agriculture.

It’s National Nutrition Month and the St. Louis Dairy Council wants to help you celebrate health, and make changes to your diet that result in more nutritious eating. The effort which was originally dubbed “National Nutrition Week” has evolved into a month long effort to promote better dietary choices.

Joyce Fikri with the St. Louis Dairy council while appearing on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show had more information on the history of National Nutrition Month, and said it’s a great time to take a look at what you’re eating.

Each year the event has a theme, with this year’s theme being “put your best fork forward”. The theme emphasizes that every single snack and meal is a chance to make small changes to your nutrition. Fikri said you should try working in several food groups into your diet each time you eat.

Fikri emphasized that it’s better to try to make small changes to your diet that lead to big results, rather than trying to change too much at once.

Lincoln Land Community College is hosting their College For Kid’s program, and registration is now open for the summer day camp classes. The classes are designed as a way to for students from kindergarten through eighth grade to learn more about a variety of different subjects.

Jamie Stout, Director of Community Education at LLCC said some of the classes in the College for Kids program fill up fast, but many spots are still available.

The classes meet throughout the week, and will allow the kids to focus on three different subjects throughout the day.

Stout had information on how parents can register their children.

A full listing of offerings and registration information is available on the LLCC Community Education website.

Another Democrat is up for running for Governor. State Senator Daniel Biss announced today that he’s a candidate, calling his campaign one “for the rest of us.” Biss made the announcement on Facebook Live and then took questions. He says that the state needs to break free from the way it’s been run for years.



The Biss diss could be seen as referencing not only Governor Bruce Rauner and Speaker Mike Madigan but also wealthy Democrat candidate Chris Kennedy and JB Pritzker who’s thinking about running for Governor. The Republican party wasted no time in calling Biss the North Shore branch of the Madigan Machine.

The Athletic Department at the University of Illinois introduced their new head basketball coach today. Brad Underwood was at the State Farm Center. He said that once he found out the U of I was interested in him as a coach Athletic Director Josh Whitman didn’t need to sell him on taking the job. Underwood has ties to the state, having been a 10 year assistant at Western Illinois University. He says it’s great to recruit the state because of top talent and coaches.

The contract will pay Underwood more than $3 million a season for 6 years. He was making a little more than a million a year coaching at Oklahoma State. Underwood will be introduced to Illini fans at halftime of tonight’s NIT game against Boise State. 

Senator Dick Durbin plans to ask Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch about his independence from the White House if his nomination is confirmed.

Durbin says being in lockstep with Trump would be bad for the high court.
 

Durbin is a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. 

A federal judge last week dismissed a lawsuit from Des Moines Water Works, which was seeking damages from drainage districts in northern counties for nitrate loads in the Raccoon River. The federal judge upheld an Iowa Supreme Court ruling that the matter should be resolved through its state legislature.

While the ruling is viewed as a victory for farmers in and beyond Iowa, nitrate loads and water quality will continue to be points of discussion. Lauren Lurkins is director of environmental and natural resources for Illinois Farm Bureau.



Jean Payne, president of Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association, echoes those remarks, saying farmers must continue to keep their nutrients for the crops and prevent them from leaving their fields.



Groups like the Illinois Nutrient Research Education Council are conducting research to provide farmers practical ways to make environmental improvements without losing production and incurring significant costs.

Governor Rauner is urging lawmakers to take swift action on pension reform legislation. State Senators Jill Tracy and Michael Connelly have moved to separate the issue from previous Grand Bargain discussions, where pension reform was debated along with multiple budget bills. Rauner released a video message via Facebook that also called for lawmakers to approve $215 million dollars to help Chicago Public Schools with teacher pension costs. The pension proposal recently came within four votes of passage.

The Madison County Sheriff's office is investigating two incidents that are described by that office as inter-related. Two death investigations are underway in the Highland, and Glen Carbon area. Authorities have not yet identified the two people who are deceased.

At about 5:30am, authorities responded to a fire in Glen Carbon where one person died, and six children escaped. At about the same time as the fire, a passerby reported a vehicle in a lake just off of Illinois Route 143 in Highland. An infant was pulled from that vehicle and flown to a St. Louis hospital, and Madison County Sheriff John Lakin credits Highland EMS Paramedic Todd Zobrist with saving the baby's life. 
 

Authorities later pulled a body from the lake. Neither of the deceased have been identified yet. Autopsies on the victims from both scenes are scheduled for Friday. 

Madison County Sheriff John Lakin says documents were found in the submerged vehicle linking it to the house where the fire had occurred.

It might sound as rare as man bites dog. Illinois has good news when it comes to its credit rating. S&P Global Ratings has issued The Illinois Funds investment pool a AAA-m credit rating, the highest mark available. State Treasurer Michael Frerichs says the rating reflects his office's approach to investing taxpayer dollars. Frerichs said “The rating shows our success at balancing the access and availability of funds while receiving a strong return on investment for this type of product.” The Illinois Funds is a local government investment pool that invests dollars from local units of government such as counties, municipalities, and school districts. Investing together generates rates of return typically not available if participants invested alone.

The St. Patrick’s Day celebrations started last week and will continue today and into early Saturday morning. And local police are taking notice. The Illinois Department of Transportation says that enforcement efforts surrounding drunken driving will ramped up again this weekend. 



Last year 4 deaths statewide were connected to drinking and driving around St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Often in state high school seniors are picking someplace else to go to college. And the University of Illinois is proposing something to do about it. The Invest in Illinoisan’s fund or the Triple I fund would give $170 million each year to in-state college undergrads. The spending is part of a larger financial package from the state to the university. And it’s the amount of aid that the U of I already gives students. But the university says that moving forward it would give that and 85 percent of any growth in financial aid resources to students from Illinois. University President Tim Killeen says they need to be able to do more to keep students in Illinois and at the U of I. 



The overall funding package the university is looking for would be guaranteed based on the U of I meeting benchmarks and other goals. In 2015 about 45 percent of students picked another state to go to school in, that number was 29 percent in 2002.

The NEWSTALK WTIM and People's Bank and Trust Taylorville Students of the Month for March were presented with their awards recently.

Pictured left to right are Senior Gunder Reese, Junior Audra Boehme, Sophomore Olivia Hadley, Freshman Emily Leers, and Judy Prasun with Peoples Bank and Trust.

State Senator Daniel Biss is one of the most talked about names among potential Democratic candidates for Governor, but Biss isn't doing much of the talking. Despite a recent poll that put him well ahead of potential contenders to face Bruce Rauner next year, Biss doesn't sound ready to jump in just yet.

The Illinois Democratic County Chairmen’s Association online straw poll saw 25 percent of respondents surveyed supporting Biss. The closest potential competitor was Chicago Alderman Ameya Pawar, who received 15 percent of the poll votes.

AT&T is backing two bills in the Illinois General Assembly that the Citizen's Utility Board is against. S.B. 1381 and H.B. 2691 would kill traditional home phone service in Illinois, according to a spokesman with the utility watchdog, who says AT&T wants to force customers to use computer-based or wireless substitutes. Jim Chilsen of the Citizens Utility Board says there are millions of both residential and business landline customers across the state.



People who live in rural areas with spotty cell phone coverage could be affected, with their landline service made either unavailable or the price going up. The phone industry says there are many options now, including landline service from the unregulated cable TV providers. 

Jim Chilsen of the Citizens Utility Board says this proposal comes back to lawmakers in Illinois every couple of years.

Senator Dick Durbin had plenty to say about Republican efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. He told lawmakers on the Senate floor that he is concerned about the potential economic impact on the healthcare industry, with hospitals getting less medicaid reimbursement from patients.

Durbin says the GOP bill provides tax breaks for the wealthiest individuals and largest corporations in America while increasing out-of-pocket health costs and leaving 24 million Americans without insurance. 

Garth Brooks retired for years to raise his daughters and he has struggled to chart new hits this century but no country act can touch his power as a concert draw. The country superstar added two shows today to his stay at Champaign's State Farm Center. He crossed the 50-thousand mark in tickets sold for the fourt concerts that will kick off Friday, April 28th. Today shows were added Saturday April 29th at 3pm and Sunday, April 30th at 7:30 PM.

Meanwhile, Durbin is reaching across the aisle in a bid to bring cameras to the nation's most important courtroom. Durbin has joined Republican Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, the Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman, in offering legislation that calls for televising open proceedings of the Supreme Court. The bipartisan Cameras in the Courtroom Act would allow Justices to shut down the cameras if they believe coverage would violate the due process rights of or more parties appearing in court.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held their weekly meeting Tuesday afternoon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium. This week’s guest speaker was Dr. Pavinderpal Gill, a Physician with the Springfield Clinic in Taylorville.

Dr. Gill took the opportunity to discuss sleep disorders with Kiwanis members, and shared some of the history of sleep disorders.

Dr. Gill discussed some of the newest research when it comes to sleep disorders, saying how studies are showing just how important sleep is to the brain.

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

The Christian County Extension Office in Taylorville recently wrapped up Annies’s Project, a program that empowers women in agriculture and educates participants in many farm related areas. Participants engage in workshops designed to highlight different aspects of farm related business.

Andrew Holsinger, Horticulture Educator at the University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 says the project is a well rounded offering for participants who want to become more involved on the farm.

Holsinger discussed several topics the students heard about during the course of the project.

Holsinger says the Extension Office was quite pleased with the project, and will consider bringing it back in the future.

Spring is around the corner and along with the warmer temperatures comes an increased chance of severe weather as well as power outages that go along with that weather. Ameren Illinois wants it’s customers to be prepared for when the power goes out, and suggests that everybody take proper precautions such as putting together a disaster preparedness kit.

Angie Ostaszewski, with Ameren Illinois had several tips for putting together a disaster preparedness kit, and said how customers can get help with putting together their kits.

Ostaszewski commented on some of the often overlooked items that people forget when putting together their kits, and why customers should put together a kit in the first place.

After not receiving a single categorical payment for FY17, the Taylorville School Board is fed up with the state. The board unanimously decided to sue the State Board of Education because of their lack of funding, and their continued rulings for schools who are already struggling.

Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau, Superintendent of Taylorville Schools, said the state is failing their schools because they can't get things done and move the budget process forward.

Fuerstenau said, they aren't upset because more standards are being placed on the schools, they're upset and taking action because more standards are required from the schools with no additional funding to support them.

Fuerstenau appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.  

The Taylorville City Treasurer’s Office is one that may not change after the city elections this year, but Billie Heberling hopes that isn't the case. As a lifelong native to the city she wants to watch it continue to grow and be a great place to live and she thinks she can give it a great chance if she becomes the next Treasurer for Taylorville. Heberling said her experience both personally and professionally makes her the right fit for this position.

Heberling said if she becomes City Treasurer, she won't make changes to water bills and how often they're being paid, because if it changes to a required monthly pay system it will cost the city thousands.

Heberling appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

A new Illinois House education funding reform panel has gone to work. House Speaker Mike Madigan says the 26 member panel, split evenly between Republicans and Democrats, will pickup where a commission formed by his political rival, Governor Rauner, left off. Legislation will be drafted this spring to try to overhaul the current funding model. The Rauner appointed commission made reccomendations on altering the school funding schematics but that effort didn't lead to legislation.

House Speaker Mike Madigan is taking a closer look at proposed Medicaid cuts by the Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans. He has directed state Rep. Greg Harris to hold a hearing Thursday on how proposed cuts could impact children, families and others in Illinois. Harris heads up the House Appropriations-Human Services Committee. Madigan's office says the proposed changes could have a significant effect on the state budget and the state would be forced to cut critical care for strugglies families and disabled residents or pass on the cost to state taxpayers.

Senator Tammy Duckworth has joined colleagues in promoting majjor paid family and medical leave legislation. Their proposal, labeled the FAMILY Act, would provide up to 12 weeks of paid leave for workers who need time to care for a newborn or adopted child, a seriously ill family member, or their own serious health condition. Duckworth says after her husband helped care for her after she lost her legs in a war zone helicopter crash, she doesn't need a focus group to understand the issue. She says families and taxpayers would benefit.

The Senators note less than 40 percent of American workers have access to personal medical leave, and just 14 percent have access to paid family leave. 

The unusually warm winter caused wheat to green and some fruit trees to bloom earlier than normal, at least in some parts of mid-to-southern Illinois. That was before snow that many hope is the last gasp of winter 20-17. Dan Hicks with Freese-Notis Weather offers his prediction on when it might warm up and if that will stick;



Temperatures in the teens overnight have some Illinois wheat and fruit growers concerned about damage to their crops. Hicks says some areas of the state can still use some additional moisture too;



Spring officially begins Monday and Hicks calls for typical weather for the season, including some swings between warm and cool. Overall, the meteorologist expect temperatures to hover at slightly above-normal levels.

Taylorville will have a new mayor in less than a month, and the April 4^th election date is creeping up fast. Bruce Barry is a candidate for mayor and is focused on his commitment and staying involved with the city as well as finding alternative forms of revenue to donate to current and future city projects.

Barry said his campaign expresses how he wants to cut costs to the citizens, clean up the town, and above all else, help the city continue to grow and thrive.

Barry said one of his campaign points deals with having things privately funded to save taxpayer money for things such as city improvements or city government departments.

Barry appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Dr. David Gill, a Bloomington Physician has announced his intentions to once again challenge incumbent Congressman Rodney Davis for the Illinois 13^th Congressional District, this time as a Democrat. Gill previously ran for the seat in 2012, losing to Davis by one of the closest margins in that election. Gill attempted another run in 2016 as an independent, however was kept off the ballot due to petitioning requirements.

Dr. Gill said he feels there is a need for someone in congress who truly represents the needs of the citizens in the Illinois 13^th Congressional District.

Dr. Gill discussed his attempted run at the seat as an independent for the 2016 election, and how that race fueled his decision to run once again as a democrat.

Anyone who would like to learn more about Dr. Gill can visit his website at DavidGill2018.com, visit his campaign on Facebook, or send an e-mail to davidgill2018@gmail.com.  

There has been much discussion over the unveiling of the American Health Care Act, which is intended to be the replacement to the Affordable Care Act, largely known as “Obamacare”. Congressman Rodney Davis spoke with Regional Radio News and said the bill will serve as a tool to fix what he called a broken system.

Congressman Davis said if changes aren’t made to the current health care system, Illinois will pay the price.

One area many Central Illinois residents have struggled with in the current system is the rising cost of premiums. Davis echoed those concerns, and said he feels the architects of the affordable care act drew it to fail.

One goal of the new American Health Care Act Davis shared is to increase the amount of options citizens have for health care coverage, while bringing down the overall cost of coverage.

With spring right around the corner, Central Illinois faces an increased chance of severe weather. Because of this, the Christian County TRIAD program is hosting a presentation by WAND Chief Meteorologist JC Fultz, with the goal of better preparing citizens on how to deal with the weather on March 23^rd.

Brian Hile with the Christian County TRIAD program says the presentation that is open to the public will help attendees know what to do when severe weather strikes.

Later in the afternoon the public is invited to the Walgreens in Taylorville, where they can either purchase a weather radio, or bring in their own and have it programmed for free.

Hile had information on where residents can go if they have any questions on the event, and reminded that it is an open event where the public is welcome.

The event will begin on March 23^rd at 9:30 in the lower level of the Taylorville Municipal Building. Refreshments will be served.

The 15 dollar minimum wage movement is now in writing in Illinois. Chicago based State Representative Will Guzzardi is drafting legislation to boost the state's starting wage to fifteen bucks, although it won't reach the mark until 2022. Guzzardi says the minimum wage is no longer just about summer jobs for young people.

Guzzardi's legislation also offers a cushion for small businesses who will struggle to cough up extra wages.
 

Under the five year phase in, the minimum wage would jump from $8.25 now to $9 next year. Business groups remain opposed. 

President Trump's talk of a massive infrastructure plan could benefit Illinois Rivers. The Administration is reportedly considering seven locks and dams on the Mississippi and Illinois rivers for improvements. Plans to improve the locks system and perform ecological restoration of the rivers passed through Congress ten years ago, but funding was never provided. The pricetag at the time was set at 4.2 billion dollars.

The deadline to purchase or modify crop insurance coverage for spring-planted crops is Wednesday, the 15th. Doug Yoder, crop agency manager for Country Financial, says even though crop insurance is a continuous program, it’s always a good idea for farmers to meet with agents to ensure that they have the best available coverage.



Yoder is a member of an American Farm Bureau Federation farm bill working group. He says crop insurance is the most important risk management tool for farmers and explains the importance of government assistance in paying those premiums.



Yoder traveled to dozens of meetings in Illinois this winter, and he says members rank crop insurance as the federal ag program that needs to be protected the most.

Congressman Rodney Davis continues to be at the forefront of efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Critics have often pointed to the mandatory aspect of the health insurance law as one of their complaints. Congressman Rodney Davis says there's an added wrinkle.

Davis says hospitals are also dealing with a growing number of writeoffs of bills for insured customers.

The Taylorville School Board unanimously elected Monday night to participate in a lawsuit that a group of Illinois Schools are filing against the state board of education, based on a lack of funds the state has paid to the schools, as well as unfunded requirements the state continues to place on Illinois school districts. As part of joining, the Taylorville School Board elected to use non-tax payer funds to pay the associated legal fees as part of the lawsuit.

Taylorville Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau spoke with WTIMTV following the meeting, and said the list of schools filing suit against the state is growing.

Dr. Fuerstenau said a big part of the reasoning behind the lawsuit was the continued unfunded mandates the school continues to place on already struggling school districts.

School board member Bruce Barry asked the board to elect to not use any taxpayer money on the legal fees associated with joining the lawsuit, and offered that the fees be paid through the Quarterback Club, which passed along with the decision to join the suit.

The board also viewed a presentation put together by Taylorville School District Business Manager Colene German highlighting some of the financial figures the district has seen since 2005. Dr. Fuerstenau said one of the most important figures of that presentation was one that showed how Taylorville Schools spends less per student than much of the state. He said this is due to the district having to make tough funding decisions due to the financial situation the district has been in.

It’s not all bad news however for Taylorville Schools, as Dr. Fuerstenau highlighted some of the accomplishments that students in the Taylorville School District have achieved.

The Taylorville School Board will meet again on April 10^th, where they will discuss the results of the tax referendum vote.

The Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation is now accepting applications for the John H. Butterfield Agriculture and Nutrition Scholarship. The scholarship will award $1,000 to a student enrolled in a two or four year college or university, with the intent to pursue a career in agriculture or food nutrition.

Raedena Ryan, Executive Director of the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation shared the story behind the founding of the scholarship, and how it reflects what the TMH Foundation is all about.

The scholarship is different in that it’s a post-secondary scholarship. Ryan shared what students should apply.

The deadline to apply for the scholarship is March 31^st. Students can get an application through the TMH Foundation website, or by contacting the Foundation Office at 824-1651.

The state budget is on the mind of Illinois state legislators, especially since Governor Bruce Rauner just proposed a possible budget that is still $4 billion  out of balance. Another thing on the mind of Illinois lawmakers is state worker pay since court battles are taking place to see if Illinois state workers will be paid for their services.

State Representative Avery Bourne has thoughts on both of these issues. She said, regarding a budget, she remains optimistic a new budget will be in effect by the time June gets here, but it will be up to the General Assembly if it passes.

Bourne also said she is pushing to allow state workers to continue to be paid as Attorney General Lisa Madigan is in the courts trying to prevent it. Bourne said the bill she has drawn up has bipartisan support as she attempts to keep state working families out of the political battles.

Representative Bourne appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

While the snow and frigid temperatures are still hitting central Illinois, it doesn't mean spring isn't soon on the way. The Master Gardeners at the University of Illinois Extension in Taylorville will be ready and prepared to give help to anyone who needs it as their Help Desk will once again re-open in April.

Master Gardeners Gwen Podeschi and Sharon Hill said the Help Desk is the backbone of the Master Gardeners and they will integrate their new trainees into the system starting when it opens on April 17th.

Podeschi and Hill also mentioned their plant sale coming to the area on May 6th at the Extension Office. They said they will be selling budding flowers, bushes, and trees, among various other things.

Podeschi and Hill appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.  

The Illinois History Symposium is just a month away, and focuses on two monumental events in the country and the state, Women's Suffrage, and World War I. Early registration is coming to a close, and for those who would want to get a discounted price on attending the symposium should move fast.

Gwen Podeschi, from the Illinois State Historical Society said on the Friday evening of the event there will be a reception at Camp Lincoln with a presentation focusing on the 8th Illinois Regiment.

Podeschi said on Saturday they will have their annual awards banquet giving out scholarships and other awards for things such as books, programs, and high school student projects.

Podeschi appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

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

Sometime during the overnight hours between Sunday, March 5, 2017 and Monday, March 6, 2017, an unknown subject used an item to break out the passenger’s side window of a vehicle parked at 2100 Grand Blvd.  The vehicle a gray, 1988, Cadillac, was parked in front of the E building.  A wrench was located on scene and may have been used to do the damage. The total dollar amount of the damage is unknown at this time.

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 our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.  

At State Farm Center, University of Illinois ticket office officials were bracing for the demand of Garth Brooks tickets that went on sale this morning. The 11th hour announcement that a second show would be added next month, did nothing to slow the demand. The ticket office shut down the sale of tickets to shows April 28th and 29th because the system was not able to handle the sale due to high demand. Those who were able to purchase tickets will be able to keep them. Ticket office officials will announce soon when sales will resume.

Each candidate running for the position of Taylorville Mayor had a chance to address the public last Wednesday during the Taylorville Mayoral Forum, put on by the University Women of Christian County, Taylorville Professional Firefighters, as well as local media outlets WTIM, who also broadcast the forum live, and the Taylorville Breeze Courier.

Each candidate had five minutes to outline their vision for Taylorville to the crowd of about 150 people in the North School Gymnasium. The candidates also answered questions from each local media outlet, as well as questions submitted from the crowd, and Taylorville students.

Citizens will have the chance to vote for the candidate they feel will be the best leader for Taylorville on April 4^th. The Taylorville Mayoral Forum is available for viewing in it’s entirety by clicking on the WTIMTV icon at TaylorvilleDailyNews.com

This week is Shelby County 4-H Week and The Mowequa Rustlers have the week planned out to give back to the community that gives them the opportunity to learn so much through 4-H. Each year a theme is planned, and this year they have decided on “4-H Grows Here,” to give them the opportunity to do anything to help the community.

Lisa Mott 4-H Leader of the Mowequa Rustlers said their 4-H pledge is about giving back, and this year they have decided to focus on donating to the local food pantry.

Mott said this week is also about recruiting new members and helping young 4-H'ers find paths to try in their tenure with the club.

Mott appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show from our downtown Shelbyville studios. 

Shelbyville Election Day is less than a month away and one of the coveted positions candidates are running for is Shelbyville Police Commissioner. Current City Police Commissioner, Brent Fogleman, is running for re-election, but Martha Firnhaber is hoping to come in and bring fresh blood and ideas to the community.

Firnhaber said her motivation to run for office is to be engaged in the community, and she wants to find a way to give back to the community that raised her.

Firnhaber said her thought to keep Shelbyville a safe and prosperous place is to be engaged with the community on a regular basis.

Firnhaber was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show from our downtown Shelbyville Studios. 

Shelbyville welcomes a new business to town as Wilma's Video Gaming Cafe opened two months ago. The cafe is meant to allow those who are focused more on gaming than socializing, music, or drinking, to celebrate their enjoyment of video games, as the entire cafe is fixated on video games. But the cafe does have a class B liquor license that will allow them to sell wine and beer, but there is a limit the cafe will give to each person.

Tom Finks, Co-Owner of Wilma's Video Gaming Cafe said the concept came about by wanting to give the city a relaxing place to enjoy video gaming.

Finks said inside the building you will see the full floor of the cafe is dedicated to video gaming and letting people enjoy their time playing.

Finks appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM morning show from our downtown Shelbyville studios. 

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce’s Second largest fundraiser of the year took place this past weekend. Participant teams in the Spring Swing tournament went to 11 bars around the area and played mini golf for a chance at a grand prize of $400. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, said they ended up with 36 total teams in the contest, and announced the first second and third place winners live on the NEWSTALK WTIM morning show.

On an alternate note, Hornbuckle said she tuned into the Taylorville Mayoral Forum Wednesday night, and heard some things she wanted to clarify about the Taylorville Chamber.

Hornbuckle appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Gov. Bruce Rauner recently called for making an Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum a freestanding institution in his budget address. Now House Speaker Mike Madigan is putting an effort to give the library and museum independence into writing. Spokesman Steve Brown commented.

Currently, three different boards play a role in overseeing the museum. The legislation would put it under the control of a board appointed by the Governor. The facility would no longer be under the control of the Historic Preservation Agency. Madigan says the current management structure has hampered the library and museum with bureaucracy and mismanagement..

There's been a lot of talk in state government about how workers are getting paid. Now there's a lot of attention being paid to how a high profile returnee to state government is getting her paycheck. It was revealed Thursday that the Rauner administration arranged to pay former Comptroller turned Deputy Governor Leslie Munger. Half of her $138,000 thousand dollar salary has been covered by an employee health care account that is more than $4 billion behind on its bills due to the state's budget crisis. The Governor's office calls that a matter of a clerical error.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan is appealing to the Illinois Supreme Court to take up the issue of whether state employee paydays can continue without a state budget. Madigan filed a motion yesterday asking the state's high court to quickly take up the issue, bypassing a ruling from the state appellate court. State workers have continued to be paid even without a state budget because of a preliminary injunction issued in 2015 by a St. Clair County judge. 

Last year, though, the state Supreme Court ruled in a separate case that state workers owed previously denied wage increases could not be paid without an appropriation in place. Madigan said the original court ruling has enabled Gov. Bruce Rauner and the General Assembly to avoid passing a budget

Republicans feel that a possible way to solve this is a bill sponsored by House Republican Avery Bourne. She is backing a bill that creates a continuing appropriation for state worker pay.



State lawmakers and Judges are paid on a continuing basis. But right now lawmaker pay has been sent in line with every other state bill and lawmakers are waiting months to be paid. 

Congressman Darin LaHood is touting what he sees as the benefits of a Republican plan to replace the Affordable Care Act. LaHood says the proposal will defer to states to make key decisions on medicaid.

LaHood says competition is king, borders are not with the GOP plan.
 

LaHood is happy to see that adult children are able to stay on family insurance plans into their mid 20s and he also is happy with the effort to avoid discrimination against individuals with pre-existing conditions.

A budget proposal from Governor Bruce Rauner is out of balance according to Senate Democrats. They say Rauner’s proposed spending plan is more than $4 billion more than expected revenues. Democrats note in order for spending to match revenues every agency needs to cut spending by 20 percent. Democrat Senator Patricia Van Pelt says recently in a committee she asked the Director of Public Health where a cut would come from.



Democrats have been frustrated recently when the Governor seems to kill the Senate’s grand bargain and then refuses to address the cuts needed to balance a budget without a tax increase.

A fire broke out earlier this week at the Pana Towers building in Pana. The fire was able to be contained to one unit in the building, however as a precaution, the building was evacuated, with most residents able to return later that day, with the rest able to return the following day.

Pana Fire Chief Rod Bland spoke with Regional Radio News and had details on how the fire got started.

Chief Bland discussed the evacuation process, and how the Pana Fire Fighters got quite the workout while helping with the evacuation.

Chief Bland said the floors were ventilated to clear the smoke from the building, and did not report any injuries.

The Taylorville Community Unit School District will be holding their kindergarten registration for the 2017-2018 school year on March 29^th.. Parents are asked to register their children if their child will be five years old on September 1^st, and there will also be no screening this year.

Brandi Bruley, Principle of Taylorville North Elementary School had more information on when and where kindergarten registration will take place.

Bruley explained the school district will not be conducting screenings this year, but did have more information for parents on what they need to bring to get the registration process started.

Again the school will need a copy of your child’s physical and immunization records, a certified birth certificate, and proof of residency. If you have any questions on the registration process or which school your child will attend, please contact the elementary school’s offices, or the superintendent’s office at 824-4951.

Many Lutheran Schools celebrated lutheran schools week during January, however Trinity Lutheran School in Stewardson elected to celebrate the week during the first week of March. The week is a chance for the school to celebrate being one of the various Lutheran Schools across the country.

Kent Rincker, Principal of Trinity Lutheran School in Stewardson had more information on Lutheran Schools Week.

Rincker shared some of the activities that the school had planned for the students to celebrate.

The school had elected to delay celebrating the week until March due to a tight schedule for the staff during the typical Lutheran schools week. The school also had a dress up day, a reading buddy day, and several other activities planned for the students.

While citizens of Taylorville are voting or preparing to vote for their new city clerk and mayor, some positions that are also available include City Alderman. Chris Skultety (Skull-Teddy) is running for Alderman in Ward Two and is hoping he can save Taylorville from making the mistakes his original hometown made.

Skultety said his hometown of Madisonville, Kentucky, was in the same position that Taylorville is in now, wanting to grow and become more prosperous, but in that process it lost its “home” feel. He said he already has a good idea of what Taylorville needs to do to keep that warm neighborly feeling present.

Skultety said he wants to be a part of a council that will keep the town in good hands with it's city officials, to keep the right people in town and make sure the one's who bring a bad element to the city are left out.

Skultety appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Spring weather has stuck around Central Illinois since mid-February, and now trees and shrubs have begun budding, where eventually spring flowers will bloom. One of the biggest pollinators for these flowers is the bee population which is fighting population decline for some unknown reasons. University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator, Andrew Holsinger, said during this time, don't use pesticides on your budding flowers as it won't help the flowers nor the bee population.

Holsinger also said as cold weather comes this weekend expect some drawbacks to your flowering plants. He said even by trying to keep it warm by using a blanket or sheet, the frigid temperatures will still have an affect on your yard's plant life.

Holsinger appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.  

The official date to vote for Taylorville city officials is less than a month away and the city is going to have a major turnover in it's government positions. One of those positions include City Clerk, where Pam Peabody is stepping down after holding the position for more than 20 years.

Michelle Beck is looking to claim the open City Clerk position. She said she believes her job experience has helped set her up for success in the city clerk position.

Beck said when it comes to the School Tax Referendum, she understands both sides of the coin, but she also realizes that for the city to continue to grow, the schools can't cut back on their classes and extracurricular options.

Beck appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

A start up car company has taken over the former Mitsubishi plant in Bloomington Normal. The company, Rivian, is based in Detroit and is expected to build electric cars. Governor Bruce Rauner was a ribbon cutting ceremony at the factory and says that the state and local governments used tax credits get the company to central Illinois.



Rivian has hopes of employing a 1,000 people at the plant. 

Taylorville citizens looking to do some spring cleaning this month will have the opportunity to bring their trash to the Taylorville Street Department. March Cleanup Days is a collaborative effort to allow Taylorville residents the ability to freely dump their trash at the street department each Saturday throughout the month of March.

Taylorville Alderman Earl Walters is one of the people behind the effort, and had more details on the Cleanup Days.

Alderman Walters said those helping with March Clean Up Days will help citizens put the trash they bring into the dumpsters at the Street Department, and how the first clean up day was a huge success.

Walters said the program will be evaluated at the end of the month, and potentially brought back for additional time later on in the year. People wishing to dump their trash have to show proof of residency before dumping their garbage, and there are some items that are not allowed to be thrown away during the event. Anyone who has any questions as to what’s allowed to be dumped, or any other questions on the event can call the Taylorville Street Department.

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation have come out in public support of the proposed property tax referendum for Taylorville Schools. Should the referendum fail, Taylorville Schools will be forced to tremendously cut their curriculum, which the CCEDC says would drastically decrease Taylorville and Christian County’s chances of attracting new business.

Mary Renner, Executive Director of the CCEDC said although the organization is typically apolitical, this issue is very important to their goal of attracting new business to the county.

Renner explained how the referendum failing could impact Taylorville and Christian County, leading to less tax dollars overall for the region.

Renner also warned that should the referendum fail, not only could it lead to businesses deciding not to locate in Taylorville, but it could also lead to current businesses struggling due to families moving to areas with better funded school districts.

As the election date to vote to pass or nix the school tax referendum nears, the pressure is on as this vote will affect the city and its citizens for years to come. Projections show if the city votes yes, while it can hurt the citizens financially, it will benefit the future of Taylorville as economic growth will be more likely to continue. But if not, the school will shut down many extracurricular programs and elective classes in the next two years including athletics, FFA, and art, music and agriculture classes.

Melissa Livingston, Member of Citizens for Education said if the tax referendum doesn't pass, the city's future looks pretty negative.

Livingston was joined by Jenny Moats, another member of Citizens for Education who said for those who are worried about their own finances, CFE has done research and discovered ways for people on fixed incomes to pay a lower tax rate overall. They said all you have to do is contact the Taylorville tax assessors office.

Livingston and Moats appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Early voting is available but the official day to vote for the school tax referendum as well as many city official positions is April 4th. Taylorville is going to have a new mayor without a doubt as Mayor Brotherton is stepping down hoping new and fresh ideas will come to the city and help things continue to progress.

Terry Wright is running for the open position, and he believes his years of experience as an Alderman helps his campaign. One thing Wright said he wants to build as mayor, is a richer pride in the city.

Some of those people include former Mayor Dick Adams, Jim Marblestone and Marcella Day off of the square, Ken Hart who is still active with Economic Development, and philanthropists such as Bill Hopper and Bill Barry who built their businesses in the area and helped create the mentality present day citizens of Taylorville have.

Wright said said he hopes to continue to have that positive attitude and pride from the citizens and one way to do that is to continue to bring great things to the city. Many businesses are eying the area because of the new four lane highway. But also because Taylorville is one of the leading cities in the state in technology and information thanks to Adam Vocks and Billy Williams.

Wright appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.  

The Taylorville Fire Department has received permission to construct a new indoor burn facility that will help the Taylorville Fire Department run training scenarios to become better prepared to fight fires in the city. The facility is also expected to potentially help reduce the homeowners insurance rates for homeowners in Taylorville.

Taylorville Fire Chief Mike Crews says the new burn building will allow the department to conveniently train next door to the fire station.

Crews also discussed how the new building could help to potentially reduce homeowner’s insurance rates for homeowners in the city.

Crews reassured those living near the fire station that the burn building wouldn’t emit much smoke, and shouldn’t disrupt community living near the station. The department hopes to have the new facility online within sixty days.

The WSVZ and Family Drug-Shelbyville Students of the Month for March 2017 were presented with their awards recently. Pictured from left to right are.

Jessie Reed of Family Drug, who was on hand to present the students with their awards, Senior Savannah Carswell, Junior Nic Hoehn, Sophomore Carolyn Nohren, and Freshman Julia Nees.

A past opponent of Congressman Rodney Davis hopes the third time is the charm. David Gill fell to Davis while represetning Democrats in the General Election in 2012. Last year, he tried another run against Davis as an independent but his court challenge against state standards requiring more signatures than traditional party candidates failed. He plans to run again next year, once again as a Democrat. Gill is a Bloomington based emergency room physician. He previously served as the Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health during the Pat Quinn era.

How might Illinois fare in the proposed changes to Affordable Care Act? The Governor says it bears watching but he says that the current health care act is anything but affordable. The state has a number of residents taking part in some kind of federal healthcare, about 1 in 4 citizens are on Medicaid. And the state’s getting more than $14 billion to support the program.



The plan from House Republicans would possibly reduce the amount of funds the state gets to run Medicaid. 

The Cubs World Series Trophy is making some of its final stops before landing in its permanent home. This afternoon, the trophy will be on display at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Downtown Springfield. Some Cubs fans thought waiting a few extra hours for a picture with the trophy was no big deal after the franchise waited 108 years for a world championship. Cubs Charities Senior VP Mike Lufrano says the trophy is well traveled.

Lufrano says the early birds are getting the worm but those who aren't in line already have hope.

The trophy will be shown to the Illinois General Assembly and then will be taken to the museum from 2:30 to 4 this afternoon. Tomorrow the trophy can be seen from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Decatur Civic Center, the Peoria Civic Center from 1:30 to 3 and Sterling's Challand Middle School from 6 to 7:30 p.m. 

Residents of Assumption are invited to attend a free informative event on March 18^th to hear about a project that’s intended to help better Assumption. The town has adopted a “mapping” project, that identifies various areas of potential improvement around town, and ways to implement those improvements. The event will have several guest speakers to help inform the public about the project.

Assumption Alderman Courtney Hiler had more information on the meeting, as well as the mapping project.

The event will be a free community dinner to allow residents the ability to learn more about the project, as well as the future of Assumption. No registration is required for the event.

Hiler said several guest speakers are scheduled to give presentations during the dinner, including State Senator Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill).

Hiler said several other towns have implemented the mapping project, and has seen good results due to it. The informative event will be held at St. Marys Parrish Hall, and doors will open at 5, with speakers starting at 6.

The Taylorville Police Department have reported to Regional Radio News that on March 4th, shortly before 3pm, officers responded to a possible suicide int he 1000 block of Virginia Ave. Upon arriving, officers found a male subject with an apparent self inflicted gunshot wound. The subject, identified as 43 year old Kevin W. Klee of Taylorville, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Christian County Coroner. An investigation is ongoing, and results are still pending from the autopsy and toxicology reports.

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital in conjunction with the Shelbyville County Market will be holding a food drive on Tuesday, March 14^th. Suggested items for the drive are canned fruits and vegetables, boxed dinners, soups, pork and beans, and other various food items.

All food collected will be donated to the local food bank at the First United Methodist Church. Last year the Methodist food pantry provided assistance to over 150 residents of Shelby County.

The hospital asks residents to join them in helping those in need, and realizing that hunger doesn’t take a day off.

Suggested Food Items for the drive are as follows:

Canned Fruits and Vegetables

Boxed Dinners

Soups

Corn and Beans

Peanut Butter

Spaghetti Sauce and Noodles

Ramen

Spaghetti-Os

Fruit or Pudding Cups

Macaroni and Cheese

Potato Mixes

Various other foods that do not need refrigeration

The WMKR and People's Bank and Trust Pana students of the months for February were presented with their awards Monday. Pictured from left to right are Joani Jones from Peoples Bank and Trust Pana, Senior Abby Kuhn, Junior Brenna Dameris, Sophomore Tristan Putt and far right is Jennifer Mathis from Peoples Bank and Trust Pana. Missing from the picture was Jacob Beyers - Freshman.

People who are undecided or who want to see what their choice for Taylorville Mayor might be like in action, can join the Taylorville Mayoral Forum tomorrow night at 6:30 at the North School Gymnasium. The 6 mayoral candidates will spend the time there answering questions and sharing the ideas they have for the city in their term.

Matthew Adermann , Taylorville Fire Captain and President of the Taylorville Professional Firefighters, is in charge of the Forum and said this is an important event to make sure people stay informed and find out where the candidates stand on the local issues.

Adermann said questions have been submitted for the forum as the Professional Firefighters have teamed up with the University Women of Christian County, and while many questions have already been taken, more can be submitted tomorrow night.

NEWSTALK WTIM will be co-sponsoring the forum, and you can hear the Taylorville Mayoral Forum Wednesday by tuning into the live coverage on NEWSTALK WTIM, the WTIM stream at TaylorvilleDailyNews.com, or streamed live on the WTIM Facebook page at 6:30. Adermann appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Life can be difficult, and sometimes people can't do it all on their own. That's where Sense and Sensibilities Counseling in Taylorville steps in to give more support, find the root of the problem, and find collaborative ways to fix those issues. Shales Nagle, Owner of Sense and Sensibilities Counseling, has more than 2 decades of experience working with children through her years at Kemmerer Village, where she now serves as Assistant Director.

Nagle said, while she does specialize in child and family counseling, she will see anyone and use her Collaborative Problem Solving style to care for her clients.

Nagle said with the negative stigma that comes with going to counseling, people are often hesitant to go. She said she hates the stigma is still there when people are just trying to better themselves, and the benefits that come from it, for some, can be life changing.

Nagle appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

This month’s NEWSTALK WTIM Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry “Big Smile for the Community” honoree is Will Perkins, who volunteers with the Taylorville Key Club, and is currently President of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club. Perkins discussed the growth the Key Club has seen, as well as it’s relationship with the Taylorville Kiwanis Club.

Perkins shared why he joined the Kiwanis Club, and said the more people who are involved with Kiwanis, the better.

To nominate someone for the NEWSTALK WITM Central Illinois Family Dentistry “Big Smile for the Community” award, send your nomination to bigsmile@randyradio.com  

A strong line of thunderstorms pushed through the Mississippi Riverbend early this morning, and left some minor damage and power outages but no reports of injuries. Ameren Illinois customers that lost power are slowly being restored as work continues this afternoon.

The outages are concentrated in Madison, Jersey and Macoupin Counties. Power restoration is expected to be completed in Alton by 6 or 7pm, and during the afternoon in most other places. If you are without power, Ameren spokesman Brian Bretsch says you might want to unplug your appliances and electronics.



The wind damage reports include minor roofing or siding damage in parts of Godfrey, as well as tree limbs onto buildings or property. 

Ag Safety Awareness Program Week is March 5-11, with the theme of Get Out of My Space. Each day has its own program, and Monday was about confined spaces. This includes grain bins, manure pits, and other potential dangers on the farm.

For grain bins, Dave Newcomb with the Illinois Fire Service Institute says to stay out of bins unless it’s absolutely necessary. He says if you must go in, be sure to first shut off all equipment and then use a lock-out tag-out system to alert others you’ve entered a bin. 

54-percent of grain bin entrapments are fatal. Newcomb says there is a protective system that can be worn when entering a bin.



Bin safety is also important for the family member who discovers the entrapment. Newcomb says 60-percent of victims are would-be rescuers.



Newcomb adds that many rural fire departments need more volunteers to help service communities, and many departments don’t have members with farm experience, increasing the need for training.

The Taylorville City Council is working towards improving Taylorville, and it showed during Monday night’s city council meeting. The Council voted and approved motions that would reduce the blight around the city, and approve paying the contractors who have done a great job with the new sewer lines on the north side of town.

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton spoke with WTIMTV following the meeting, and explained how the council voted to approve payment to the contractors working on the new sewer lines, however made sure to give some insurance to the city from the state.

Although the project is currently far ahead of schedule, Mayor Brotherton still wanted to thank the citizens of Taylorville for their patience with the project. He mentioned how the new sewer lines have been a huge help to the city’s storm water management.

The council also continued their push to reduce the amount of blight in the city. A new ordinance was approved that would allow the council to give homeowners who are taking their time with property renovation projects a tighter timeline on when the work needs to be finished.

Mayor Brotherton also discussed the upcoming mayoral forum on Wednesday. He said the citizens of Taylorville should be paying attention, and seeing what each candidate has to say.

You can hear the Taylorville Mayoral Forum Wednesday by tuning into the live coverage on NEWSTALK WTIM.

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

Sometime between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm on Saturday March 4, 2017, person or persons unknown made entry into a vehicle that was parked at the University of Illinois Extension Office.  While inside, the unknown subject or subjects took a black bag.  The bag contained a debit card, a driver’s license, and cash.  The vehicle was parked on the south side of the building during the time of the incident. No damage appeared to be done while making entry.  The total dollar amount of the theft is unknown at this time.

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 our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.  

After numerous donations from local churches and organizations, The Christian County Senior Citizens Center has enough funding to once again offer transportation and lunches on Wednesday. Wednesday lunches have been canceled the past two months because of cut funding from the state to the Senior Center. The Wednesday lunches will continue throughout June, but  they could be canceled again in July if the center can't generate more money.

Judy Gates, Area Supervisor for Meals on Wheels of CEFS, and Gerry Mahr, Director of the Christian County Senior Citizens Center, said they are saving the donations they have received now in case they don't have funding from the state come July.

Mahr said they are continuing to take donations to prepare for the remainder of the year. He said donating is easy, and people can choose whether their money goes to the lunch program, to transportation, or wherever else.

Mahr and Gates appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.  

Early voting is available but the official day to vote for the school tax referendum as well as any city official positions is April 4th. Tim Calvert is running for the open position of city mayor after Mayor Brotherton steps down. Calvert thinks his experience with Eagles, writing grants to generate money, and being a part of the community for years will help his stake in running.

Calvert said some of the things he is focused on within Taylorville include drug usage, improve the city's curb appeal, and the school tax referendum.

Calvert said he wants to continue to promote the city to be a great place to live, and he thinks with what the city is beginning to set up, it will have a lot to offer incoming residents and businesses.

Calvert appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The official date to vote for Taylorville city officials is less than a month away and the city is going to have a major turnover in it's government positions. While there will definitely be a new city clerk and mayor, one position that may not change is city treasurer as current treasurer Jacque Nation is running for re-election. Kellie Hamell, is looking to change that as she has a lot of experience in the county treasurer’s office.

Hamell said she's heavily researched the job, asking city treasurers from similar cities about the job description, and she believes, with her experience, she'd be a good fit. Hamell said one thing she would like to change as city treasurer is to have budget information more available and accessible to the city aldermen.

Hamell said another thing she has in mind is to stabilize the water bills to payment will be made every month rather than every other month. She said this will help people budget their money more easily, especially with the rise in water rates.

Hamell said she knows double the work load will be given to the city workers, and one way to help that would be through payment using debit and credit cards.

Hamell appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

An Illinois company is recalling a nut free peanut butter substitute. The I-M Health Soy Nut Butter spread is being tied to e-coli infections across the United States. The Illinois Department of Public Health says stop eating any variety of I-M’s butter spreads.



For now the recall is voluntary.

Early voting is now open for the April city elections for Taylorville. One of the biggest issues on the ballot is the tax referendum for Taylorville schools. Many local leaders in the community have come out in support of the referendum, including Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, who says a gutted school system could mean potential businesses deciding to establish themselves elsewhere.

Hornbuckle mentioned during an appearance on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show how at the most recent LEAD meeting, the class learned about another economic organization in the city that is backing the referendum.

Hornbuckle also said she’s disappointed in the negativity she’s seen around town regarding the referendum, and invited anybody in the community to her office to discuss the pros and cons of the referendum.

She said the citizens of Taylorville need to support their town, and help to provide the best school district they can for the students.

Should the referendum fail, the Taylorville School District has planned to cut nearly all extracurricular activities, several teaching positions, and adopt a common core curriculum in an effort to keep the school’s budget balanced due to a lack of funds received from the state.

Happy Baked Goods is officially open for business in Taylorville, and had quite the grand opening. Since opening their doors last Tuesday, the business has seen a steady flow of customers, and has regularly sold out of nearly every item they offer.

Meredith Eisenbarth, owner of Happy Baked Goods said the reception the business has seen has been an incredible experience that exceeded expectations.

Eisenbarth reflected on what her most popular item has been so far, and said with the huge demand, she’s looking at hiring more help in the future so Happy Baked Goods can keep up with their customers.

Happy Baked Goods can be found off Poplar Street in Taylorville, and more information can be found online on their Facebook Page. 

Citizens for Education are planning a door to door effort throughout the Taylorville School District on March 11^th to help inform the public about the details of the Taylorville School tax referendum on the April 4^th ballot. The goal is to give the voters the most information possible before they make their decision on the referendum, and answer any questions they might have.

Melisa Livingston with Citizens for Education had information on where and when CFE members and volunteers can meet for the effort.

Citizens for Education welcomes any volunteers who may want to help with the effort. Livingston had information on how people can get involved.

Livingston said the goal with the door to door effort is to simply help the public get educated on the issue, and have the most accurate information how how the referendum affects them before they make their decision.

Citizens for Education are hoping to have enough volunteers to be able to visit households in Mt. Auburn and Stonington who are part of the Taylorville School District as well.

The Shelby County Office of Tourism has officially gotten the visitor's guides. The Office of Tourism ordered 35,000 guides and will be offered all across the state at information centers off of highways and interstates, as well as in multiple locations in Shelby County including Lake Shelbyville.

Freddie Fry from the Shelby County Office of Tourism said this year, her office partnered with the Army Corps of Engineers, and by doing so more pages have been added to the guide.

Fry said some of the new features to the guide include a bigger Lake Shelbyville map, exhibits for the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage area, and more.

Fry appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM morning show from our downtown Shelbyville studios. 

Brent Fogleman has been Police Commissioner of Shelbyville for two terms and he's running for another term during this election. Since Fogleman has been in office, Shelbyville's police has seen a lot of success, but Fogleman said he can't take much credit for any of that. He said he just enjoys being able to give back to the community that gave him a wonderful career, retirement, and home.

Fogleman said some reasons why he should be re-elected include his experience, his respect and duty to the community, and the common sense he shown during his tenure in the office.

Fogleman said some of the accomplishments his office has seen since he's been in office include building back their depleted reserve money, getting the city out of debt, and creating a new business district. But looking ahead, one thing he would like to see happen is the high level of efficiency for the Shelbyville Police Department continue.

Fogleman was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show from our downtown Shelbyville Studios. 

Shelbyville Manor and Hawthorn Inn is there for people who may need assisted living as well as therapeutic services. They offer Skilled Nursing, Bounce Back Services and private and semi private rooms for those who may need to stay there for an extended period of time.

Kristy Gorden, Director of Marketing and Sales at Shelbyville Manor and Hawthorn Inn explained in detail all of the services they provide.

Gorden said they do have dietary managers to make sure people get the meals they need that will help them with their therapy. She said they do not specialize meals for diabetics or those with heart issues, but their meals are always balanced and fulfill the requirements.

Gorden appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show from our downtown Shelbyville studios. 

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital Held their seventh annual Red Event on February 16^th to help raise funds for the hospital. The fundraising event was a huge success, and featured attractions such as a comedian, a silent auction, and catered food.

Glenda Plunkett with HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital shared how the Red event has grown over it’s seven years.

Overall the hospital was able to raise nearly $35,000 for the hospital to help support programs, buy equipment, and continue services at the hospital. Plunkett shared how this years event was bigger than in years past.

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital was especially thankful to the generosity of the Red Event Sponsors for helping to make another Red Event a success for the hospital.

No matter where you live in Illinois you knew it been mild winter and now we are finding out just how much warmer it was. State Climatologist Jim Angel says that it was this past February was a record smasher.

The weather wasn’t wetter though. The warmer trend brought little snow an scattered rain showers. The month goes down as the 9th driest February.

While President Trump has tried to demonize CNN, the New York Times, Politico and some other media outlets, at least one political pundit with the cable news channel says its time for Americans in the middle to stand up and be counted. Michael Smerconish, often provides commentary for CNN, and told farmers meeting in Springfield this week that most of America doesn't swing far left or far right politically;

Smerconish told a meeting of the Illinois Farm Bureau in Springfield that middle America - both physically and politically, need to get active;



Governor Rauner and many members of the General Assembly also stopped by the meeting that attracted more than 400 Illinois farmers and other Farm Bureau members to the capital city.

The Governor continued his tour of storm ravaged towns. Bruce Rauner was in Jackson County on Thursday. This is the second day that he’s been out meeting with storm victims. Rauner says that he’s seen plenty of mother nature’s wrath while in office.



The death toll from the midweek storms pushed higher after a second man died from injuries suffered after a tree fell on him in Ottawa.

A group of nurses doing a little song and dance routine has caught the nation’s eye. Five pediatric nurses at HSHS St. Johns in Springfield started doing the Hokey Pokey for 4 year old Madison Austin when they found out so how much she loved the song. The video was posted to Facebook and since has been seen more than a 150,000 times and has been featured on national newscasts including the Today show. Madison celebrates her birthday today and is expecting to get out of the hospital. Her parents say they are grateful for the lengths the nurses have gone too to make their little girl happy while she stays in the hospital. 

Taylorville Community Credit Union invites it’s members to the Knights of Columbus Hall in Taylorville on March 21^st for their annual meeting. The meeting is an opportunity for TCCU members to mingle with each other and the staff, and get an idea of the direction that TCCU is heading.

Will Perkins, President of Taylorville Community Credit Union said the meeting will also have some fun activities planned, and asked that all members who wish to attend, to RSVP for the event.

This year’s meeting is being billed as one of “reflections and projections”. Perkins mentioned how the Credit Union is pleased with their recent growth, so the meeting will essentially be a celebration of TCCU’s success.

Perkins commented on the unique opportunity that the meeting gives it’s members, and how you don’t get that at many banks.

Members are encouraged to visit or call the credit union’s Taylorville office no later than March 14^th to reserve a seat should they wish to attend the meeting.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is holding their second biggest fundraiser this weekend with Spring Swing. The mini golf tournament will be held at 11 bars throughout the town and signups are open through the morning of March 4th. Teams, with a maximum of four players, cost $100 to register, with the grand prize being $400.

Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce said each bar is making their own hole, and people are welcome to drink while they play as transportation to each hole is offered.

Hornbuckle said there will also be a silent auction held throughout the contest with many neat and interesting items available.

Hornbuckle appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 is holding a clinic for those who are interested in raising sheep and goats for the upcoming county fair, or for those who might want to do it for business. Alicia Gullidge, 4-H Youth and Development Coordinator, will be leading the program and will be going over everything someone may need to know to raise a healthy sheep or goat.

Gary Letterly, Energy and Environmental Stewardship Educator said Gullidge has a history with sheep, and learning how to raise goats and sheep, for those who want to raise livestock, could work because not as much space as needed.

Letterly said the benefits of joining this program include learning about purchasing sheep and goats, their health, nutrition, and much more.

Registration is still available, but do so promptly as preparations have begun for those already registered.

Letterly appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.  

One of the city positions that will change with this year's local election will be the City Clerk's office. The reigning City Clerk, Pam Peabody, has been in office for more than 20 years, and is retiring this year causing one more open spot that will need to be filled that could shake up the city government. Buz Besson, is running for the open position and believes his experience in this community could bring stability for the future of the city.

Besson said he decided to run because of the lack of instability that's possible  in the city government because of all of the potential new faces.

Besson has been a major part of the community and organizations that give back including Kiwanis, the Masonic Lodge and the Shiners. But his experience working and developing systems with the Taylorville Police Department is something he is most proud of.

Besson appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Trump supporters will get their chance to voice their support for the Nation’s President Saturday as Springfield will play host to one of many different rallies being planned across the country as a part of March 4 Trump. Several speakers are planned for the rally, including Senator Kyle McCarter, and State Reps Reggie Phillips and Brad Halbrook.

Jessica Wetherholt, one of the co-organizers for the rally discussed what the March 4 Trump is all about.

Wetherholt went through the current agenda for the day, and highlighted some of the guest speakers for the ralley.

Wetherholt did say that there are several other possible speakers for the event, however they haven’t yet been confirmed.

The Senate has worked both side of the isle for months to craft a grand bargain over the state’s lack of a budget and reforms that echo the turnaround agenda. But on Wednesday this week the vote was cancelled when not enough support was found from Republicans. The day started with the votes to be taken on workers compensation changes and tax hikes but votes from the R’s were disappearing and Senate President John Cullerton blames the Governor for squashing bipartisan support.



The Governor’s staff says that more work needs to be on the series of bills to assure it’s a good deal for everyone.

A lack of Republican support doomed the effort that the Illinois Senate had called their grand bargain. On Wednesday as votes were set to be taken it became apparent to Senate Democrats that they had seen a large portion, if not all, of their Republican support disappear. Senate President John Cullerton blames the Governor for getting involved. Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno is on the optimistic side and thinks the effort hasn’t gone to waste.

The Governors staff says there is still more to be done to get the set of bills to be best thing moving forward for the state.

Negotiations between the Rauner Administration and the largest union for state workers have turned into a war in the court of public opinion. Anders Lindall with AFSCME Local Council 31 is hopeful the temporary stay that has prevented Governor Rauner from imposing contract terms will stick around a while longer.

While union members voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike authorization vote, Lindall says picket lines are not a favored option.
 

81% of AFSCME members supported a strike authorization vote.

Another Illinoisan has died as the result of powerful storms that struck Illinois on Tuesday. A second person died in LaSalle County. There's no word on the identity or gender of the victim.

A drug investigation conducted by the Central Illinois Enforcement Group as well as the Morrisonville police Department has resulted in 30 cannabis plants being seized from an indoor grow operation inside a residence in Morrisonville. 33 year old Nathan E. Pinnell of Morrisonville was taken into custody and booked into the Christian County Jail on charges of possession of cannabis with the intent to deliver over 500 grams, a class 2 felony charge.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp recapped the events that lead to the bust of the indoor grow operation.

Kettelkamp said the bust is a result of some good police work by the various agencies involved in the case.

Kettelkamp said the Central Illinois Enforcement Group has been hard at work the past few weeks, and is incredibly proud of the work that the group has been able to do here in Central Illinois.

A string of suspicious fires in Pana has lead officials worrying about a possible “firebug” in the city. The Pana Fire Department responded to a call on Monday evening of yet another suspicious fire, this time at an abandoned grocery store on Cedar Street. Arson is suspected in the blaze due to the building have no power or gas, anybody living nearby, or any storms in the vicinity that could have started the fire.

A firebug is a slang term often used for an arsonist who lights fires for the fun of it. So far the fires started in the city have been to vacant, abandoned buildings, however officials are concerned since often a firebug will gradually move to bigger or occupied structures.

The Pana Fire Department has asked residents to stay alert, and be on guard for suspicious behavior, such as people walking around vacant homes, or vehicles parked where they shouldn’t be. If you do see something suspicious, residents are asked to contact the Pana Police Department.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club got to hear from a local business fighting against Parkinson’s disease at their weekly meeting at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium. Lisa Tarr, owner of Rock Steady Boxing in Taylorville was this week’s guest speaker, and shared how through boxing, Rock Steady is helping people fight against the onset of Parkinson’s.

Tarr shared with the Kiwanis members what inspired her to open Rock Steady Boxing in Taylorville.

Rock Steady Boxing in Taylorville is part of a larger network of boxing gyms dedicated to helping people fight Parkinson’s. Tarr said how the company was founded, and how boxing helps many cope with the disease.

Rock Steady is funded entirely on donations, and recently held an open house to help raise funds for equipment. A membership to the Rock Steady Boxing Gym costs $65 per month, and for more information on the gym, you can call 820-1799.

The Illinois State Senate voted Tuesday on a 13 bill budget package, commonly referred to as the “Grand Bargain”. Five of those measures passed, and one failed, although the sponsor used a parliamentary maneuver that will allow the bill to be brought back to the legislation for consideration later this week.

State Senator Chapin Rose spoke with the Senate Press Office following the session, and said the package needs to be looked at in it’s entirety.

Even should this “Grand Bargain” pass through the senate, it would still need to pass through the House before the governor would have a chance to sign or veto the package. Senator Rose had questions on whether or not the bills would pass in the house.

One of the Taylorville city government positions available in this election is City Treasurer. Current Treasurer, Jacque Nation, is in the fight to retain her position. She's been in the treasurer's office for nearly a decade, five years as a deputy, the past 4 years as Taylorville City Treasurer, and she hopes that doesn't end any time soon as she still has plans for the city government offices.

Nation said one reason she thinks people should allow her to keep her position is for continuity, since there will be a new mayor and city clerk. She said the treasurers office should remain stable during this time of adjustment for the city government.

Nation said one thing she wanted to make clear was the increase in water rates. She said many people think it's her office that makes those increases, but that just isn't true.

Nation said one thing she hopes to implement by the end of March is the use of debit and credit cards to pay for water bills.

Nation appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

It's National Nutrition Month and the Central Illinois Food Bank wants to make sure people can be healthy with the services they provide. Some ways to do this when donating canned foods, is to try and see if there is an option with the American Heart Association seal. Other ways include visiting the Mobile Kitchen Cart to watch people prepare food in healthy ways and finding healthier recipes.

Krista Lisser, Public Relations Manager for the Central Illinois Food Bank said when looking for canned food to donate especially fruits and vegetables, try to find low sodium veggies, and fruit with 100 percent fruit juice.

Lisser said their Mobile Food Cart travels around the area, and people can watch certified dieticians cook food and prepare it in ways to give individuals and families the most amount of nutrients.

Lisser appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.  

Governor Bruce Rauner, State Emergency Management Director James Joseph and State Senator Sue Rezin have been touring deadly tornado damage in LaSalle County today. A 76-year-old man was killed when a tree was uprooted in Ottawa. A second fatality occurred when a 71-year-old man was killed in the Southeast Illinois town of Crossville in White County. Governor Rauner was impressed with the team effort in LaSalle County.

Illinois Emergency Management Director James Joseph was impressed by how residents were self starters in dealing with the storm.
 

Joseph says Illinois is fortunate the damage wasn't worse.

President Trump inked another executive order Tuesday – this one that among other things puts a former Obama administration rule on hold that some believe allowed the federal government to regulate ditches. The order actually attempts to ditch the federal E-P-A’s infamous ‘Waters of the U-S’ rule that has riled many farmers and other landowners;

Illinois Farm Bureau President Richard Guebert welcomed the news. The Ellis Grove farmer, several other farmers in Illinois -- and around the country -- have fought the rule ever since E-P-A and the Army Corps of Engineers established it in 2015;



The federal E-P-A has maintained the rule more clearly defines which waters fall under federal jurisdiction and helps protect water. Farm Bureau and some other groups say the rule expands the agency’s jurisdiction beyond what Congress intended in the federal Clean Water Act and only adds confusion.

The push for a grand bargain in the Illinois Senate continues. The Senate spent much of the afternoon in committee meetings and Senators are getting back to the floor for more discussion on a number of budget related bills, including an income tax hike, workers comp and school funding reform.