The annual Illinois Grain Tour begins Monday at assumption. The Illinois Department of Agriculture is dedicated to promoting Illinois commodities such as the export of grain. Jackie Alexander, an International Marketing Representative for the Illinois Department of Agriculture shares more on the grain tour.

This year, participants from Mexico, South Korea, Dominican Republic, and Peru will all participate in the tour.

The Illinois Grain Tour begins Monday morning at 11 in Assumption.

Sav-Mor Pharmacies is opening up a new location in Pana. David Falk, owner of Sav-Mor Pharmacies is looking forward to opening doors in Pana, benefiting the community. He says there has not been an independent owned pharmacy in Pana for quit some time.

Falk also says that the city is going to help pave the lot they are building on so the new Sav-Mor will have a drive through.

Falk is looking forward to connecting with the Pana community, and bringing Sav-Mor Pharmacy to town.

Dove is a social service organization that serves 5 Illinois counties with multiple programs being offered for what someone might need.

Susie Kensil is the Coordinator of the Dove Domestic Violence Program. October is the Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Dove is doing a candlelight with the theme of home should not hurt.

The event will start with a prayer and after Kensil makes a few remarks they will light the candles to honor victims of domestic violence. Kensil is thankful that once again this year Shelby County did not have any fatal domestic violence cases.

Kensil appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown Shelbyville studios.

Wednesday night Lincoln Land Community College held an open house for their new and improved welding lab they have been working on since classes let out in May.

Dee Krueger is the Director of Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville. She says the turnout for the event was fantastic and you could see the excitement in the faces of the students and faculty.

Krueger also wants to give students plenty of notice about registration for next semester. Registration is not until the 18^th of October but Krueger knows it will be here before we know it.

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

The University of Illinois Extension is hosting a succulent workshop this October. Andrew Holsinger, a Horticulture Educator, with the U of I Extension says that succulents are a nice addition to someone’s home, but not everyone knows the correct way to treat them.

Holsinger says that people who take part in the workshop will be able to pick up a lot of tips on the best way to grow succulents.

The class will be held on October 11^th, and runs from 6-7:30 in the evening.

Summer is over, and that means farmers are beginning to see some yields from this years’ crop. Ken Franklin, a local farmer in Christian County says that yields this year have been very good.

Franklin says that big reason behind the high yields this year is that there has been very good growing conditions.

The Social Security Administration wants to make sure that you are getting the most out of your social security.

Jack Myers is a Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration. Normally you cannot get Medicare until you are 65, Myers shares some exceptions that are made.

There are three key parts of Medicare that Myers wants to make sure you are aware of to make sure you are getting your moneys worth out of Medicare.

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

Early voting began on Thursday which means that residents can begin to vote in multiple races within the Illinois government. That includes the race for Illinois Governor. Jessica Fox of the Shelby County Clerks and Recorder with more on early voting this year.

Fox also spoke on what voters who are not registered need to do, if they do not come in before October 9^th.

Early voting is now through November 5^th, the day before election day.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce today released its entertainment schedule for both the main south stage, and the north stage, for next weekend's annual event on the Taylorville square.  The schedule is subject to change:

Saturday, October 6th, 2018 
9:00 AM Welcome & Opening Ceremonies National Anthem-Shanda Courtway           

Welcome by Mayor Barry on the South Stage
9:00 AM Chilli available under the Chilli Tent! On the Southeast Courthouse Lawn
9:00 AM Lil' Chilli Bean Contest begins Purple & Gold Tent
9:00 AM Gun & Prize Raffle Tickets --- available for purchase Purple & Gold Tent
9:00 AM Little Miss/Little Mr./Junior Miss/Miss Pageants On the South Stage
10:00 AM 7th Annual Bags Tournament REGISTRATION Northeast Corner of Square
10:30 AM Chillinois Regional Cookoff begins East Side of Square
11:00 AM Bags FLY for the 7th Annual Bags Tournament  Northeast Corner of Square
11:30 AM Chilli Eating Contest/Pie in the Face On the South Stage
12:00 Noon Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu and Taekwondo Demonstration On the South Stage/South Stage Area
1:00 PM Taylorville JH Dance Team Performance On the South Stage/South Stage Area
1:30 PM Center Point Dance Academy Performance On the South Stage/South Stage Area
2:00 PM Dexter Anodyne On the South Stage
3:00 to 5:00pm Cross Country Classics On the South Stage
4:00-4:20 PM The Dance Station Performs On the South Stage/South Stage Area
5:00 PM Cook Off Awards Presentation On the South Stage
 

North Stage entertainment:
12:00 Noon Cactus Ranch On the North Stage
2:00-4:00 pm Tim Zini On the North Stage
 
 
Sunday, October 7th, 2018 
9:30 AM Central States Regional Cookoff East Side of the Square
10:00 AM Chilli Available at Chilli Tent On the Southeast Courthouse Lawn
10:00 AM Lil' Chilli Bean Contest Continues Purple & Gold Tent
10:00 AM 7th Annual Bags Tournament REGISTRATION Northeast Corner of Square
11:00 AM Bags FLY 7th Annual Bags Tournament Northeast Corner of Square
11:30 AM Sky High Tumblers Performance On the South Stage
11:45 AM 7th Annual Bags Tournament MEETING Northeast Corner of Square
12:00 NOON Taylorville High School Poms Performance  On the South Stage/South Stage Area
12:15 PM TYFL & JFL Cheer Performance On the South Stage/South Stage Area
12:30 PM Taylorville Junior High Cheer Performance On the South Stage/South Stage Area
12:45 PM Taylorville High School Cheer Performance On the South Stage/South Stage Area
1:00 PM Taylorville High School Jazz Band On the South Stage
1:00 PM Lil' Chillibean Contest Ends Purple & Gold Tent
2:00 PM Antone Derocchi Performs On the South Stage
3:00 PM Lil' Chillibean Contest Results On the South Stage
3:00 PM Cody Moomey Performs On the South stage
4:30 PM Cook Off Awards Presentation On the South Stage
Raffle /Drawings to follow awards presentation On the South Stage
 

North Stage entertainment:
12:00 Noon Relativity Performs On the North Stage
2:00 PM Rockaholics Performs On the North Stage

Get the latest information on Chillifest on the event's web site, chillifest.info, that's "chillifest" with 2-L's.

Starting October 1^st Taylorville Memorial Hospital is launching their first Mammogram Mondays in hopes to help detect breast cancer at an early state.

Mary Jo Coady is the Mammography Coordinator at TMH. She says there are three criteria that residents must fall into to be a part of Mammogram Mondays.

Coady says the scheduling gets plenty busy so it would be smart to call in advance and book your appointment to make sure you can get in.

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

Another new restaurant is on its way to Taylorville. Glen Kluge is taking over Joyce’s Cafe, and will be opening up Kluge’s on the Square Pub and Eatery. It is a bar and restaurant, and Kluge’s family has been a reason behind why he decided to open up a restaurant.

Kluge says that he is looking to be ready for opening day by this time next year, and he plans to have steak on the menu.

Flu season is fast approaching, and that means it is time to consider getting the flu vaccine. Peggy Chapman, the Infection Prevention and Employee Health Nurse at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, shares why getting vaccinated is important.

For those who are skeptical about flu shots, and their effectiveness, Chapman explains why there is no reason to be worried about the shot.

There are ways to prevent the flu as well once flu season begins. For instance, washing your hands is a very effective way to prevent getting sick.

No matter what, with flu season fast approaching, it is probably best to stay on the safe side and get a vaccinated.

For the past 6 months Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry has been trying to lose some weight and has turned to Physicians Choice Wellness for some help.

Barry says his goal from the beginning has been to lose 50 pounds in a year and he is currently 24 down at the 6 month mark, but has struggled recently battling his busy schedule.

Mayor Barry says it is getting difficult to avoid the new restaurants that are coming to Taylorville but he is still trying to keep up with his weight loss.

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

JUDGES STILL NEEDED
FOR 2 DAYS OF ICS SANCTIONED CHILLI JUDGING
AT GREATER TAYLORVILLE CHAMBER CHILLIFEST

(Taylorville)--Judges are still needed for 2 days of International Chilli Society sanctioned chilli and salsa cookoffs during the 2018 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.

Judging both days will sample salsa, verde, chilli, and for the first time homestyle chilli which includes beans.

Several thousand dollars in prize money is being awarded again this year to the top finishers in each category, and also advance to the 2019 World Championship.

To sign up to be a judge for either or both days of I-C-S chilli judging during the 2018 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest, contact chilli cook chair Tom Calvert at 565-2791.

As is the usual there is plenty going on in Washington DC but no stories seem to be any bigger right now than that of the Brett Kavanaugh nomination for Supreme Court Justice.

Jim Bohannon, host of the Jim Bohannon show airing weeknights on Newstalk WTIM at 9, says with additional accusations coming out it is looking like Christine Ford will finally be testifying.

Bohannon acknowledges that this process has been drawn out and thinks that the end is near as there is apparently a time limit on this process.

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

More “Lil Chilli Bean” contestants are needed for the 2018 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest taking place on the square October 6th and 7th.

The contest is a “People’s Choice” contest and is open to Christian County youth ages birth to 2 years old.

There is a 5-dollar entry fee per child.  Each entrant is provided a jar to collect money in during Chilifest weekend.  All jars will be on display on the square with the child’s information on it, both days.

The entrant collecting the most money, wins a 100-dollar Greater Taylorville Chamber gift certificate.  Second place winner gets a 75-dollar Chamber gift certificate, and the third place winner gets a 50-dollar Chamber gift certificate.

Complete rules and the entry form, are available at the Chamber office on the 2nd floor of the U-S Bank building on the south side of the Taylorville square, or on-line at the event’s web site, chillifest-dot-info, that’s Chillifest with 2-L’s.

The Pana School District Unit 8 provides a mentoring program for students that need extra educational support called SMART Buddies.

Susan McGrath is a SMART Buddy, she says the program got started around 15 years ago and they have seen continued growth throughout the past decade and a half.

McGrath says they meet for what is called buddy time. This time can be used for multiple things from helping the buddy with homework, to playing a game. Often times it is used just to talk about what is going on in life.

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

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club installed new officers and honored several of their own, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday.

Outgoing Kiwanis president Martin Vota presented several awards to those who served the club in various capacities.  Diane Beatty, who served as secretary from 2004 until 2018, was given a special award for her many years of service.  Her husband Cliff was also honored with a special awards, for his many years as treasurer.  Both retired from their Kiwanis positions this year.

Vota then named the Kiwanian of the Year, who was Will Perkins for his leadership as chair of both the Key and Builder’s Clubs for the club, as well as his efforts as past president, and current chair of the fund-raising committee.

Vota then gave his final remarks as president of the club, saying he was proud to achieve several of the goals he set out when he became president a year ago.

Former Kiwanis International president Paul Palazzolo (pal-uh-ZOH-low) of Springfield, then held the installation ceremony.  New officers installed include Michael Evanchak as president, Sarah Van Huss as president-elect, Martin Vota as secretary, and Judy Prasun as treasurer. 

Palazzolo told the local club he has many Kiwanis memories of Taylorville during his years as Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor, District Governor, and Rotary International president.

Vota received an award as outgoing president of the club, by Palazzolo. 

Vota then gave Palazzolo a special Leadership Award for his many years of leadership as a Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor, Governor, and ultimately president of Kiwanis International.

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.

HSHS held its ground breaking ceremony on Tuesday afternoon, beginning the construction of their new building coming to Taylorville. Sonya Jones, and HSHS Medical Group Outreach Representative, first address the crowd discussing the excitement around the new building.

Mayor Bruce Barry was on hand as well. He thanked HSHS for building in Taylorville and commented on how the city has been stagnent for quite some time, and that he hopes this will continue to influence growth in Taylorville,

President of HSHS Medical Group also spoke during the ceremony. He says that HSHS wants to help out small towns, and provide them health care because it is important to those communities.

HSHS is the beginning of what Mayor Barry hopes will bring future growth to the city, and HSHS Medical group is looking forward to being a healthcare option for those in Taylorville.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a crash involving a school bus this morning at approximately 7:39 in the morning. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettlekamp says the school bus was stopped with its warning lights activated and the stop arm out when a Ford F-150 pick-up truck failed to stop and struck the rear end of the bus.

Following the accident 18 year old Carter Flowers of Nokomis was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs.

Recently the Christian County Historical Society and Museum had to cancel their Prairie Days due to inclement weather. The make up date for the Prairie Days has been set for April 6^th and 7^th.

Maureen Bruns with the Christian County Historical Society and Museum says while that is a little bit down the road they are still looking forward to it. Also Night at the Museum Scavenger Hunts are being scheduled for the fall.

Bruns wants residents to know how fun and educational this scavenger hunt can be, it is done in the pitch black and there will be volunteers with you every step of the way to make sure that none of the historical items are damaged.

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

The Stewardson Lions Club is hosting a wiener roast Friday September 28^th. Jane Giertz is with the Stewardson Lions Club, and she says the roast is the Lions Club’s way of saying thank you to the community for supporting them.

The wiener roast is a community event, and Giertz says despite sports schedules they still bring together a good crowd.

Giertz says that she is incredibly thankful for the community’s support, and so is the Lions Club.

The Wiener Roast is Friday September 28^th, and is open to the public.

Plenty is going on in our city of Taylorville, with HSHS breaking ground in the TIF District, to the Business Development District growing as well. There are even some new restaurants coming to town.

Mayor Bruce Barry is excited to see all the growth the city is experiencing. He has seen a lot of work being put in on the square to open a new restaurant and now there are two more coming.

Barry is a big fan of Florinda’s and would recommend it to anyone he runs into, of course if you are craving a burger Bill’s Toastee is open 24/7 and can fill you up.

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

The Taylorville Park District held their monthly meeting on Monday night in the Manners Park Office Board Room. There was a large crowd at the meeting because of issues arising between the Park and Sanitary District involving pipeline construction. Marlane Miller of the Taylorville Park District explained what was resolved between both sides during Monday night’s meeting.

After that was resolved, the Parks Department discussed a few more things before going into a closed session. From now on, after inclement weather, use of Don Bragg Sports Complex must be approved by the parks district. This is because the latest JFL football games played on the field were in very muddy conditions causing damage to the field. Lastly, the parks department would approved the Finance Committee’s payment of bills before the meeting went into a closed session.

The Taylorville Parks District meets on the fourth Monday of every month.

You can watch the full Parks District Meeting here.

The calendar is winding down and the 2018 edition of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest is just 12 days away.  The 2-day event takes place on the Taylorville square October 6th and 7th, and committee members met Monday night in the Chamber board room to finalize plans for the event.

Entries are still needed for the "Lil Chilli Bean" baby contest.  It's a "People's Choice" contest, with the top 3 babies earning the most money, earning Chamber gift certificates.  Entry rules and forms are available at the Chamber office or on-line at the event's web site, chillifest-dot-info, that's chillifest with 2-L's.

Chilli cookoff chair Tom Calvert reported that chilli cooks are signing up for 2 days of International Chilli Society sanctioned cookoffs during Chillifest, with cooks signed up from as far away as California.

Calvert added he's in need of additional judges for the 2 days of I-C-S chilli cookoffs.  To volunteer, contact Calvert at 565-2791.

An accident along Route 48 and Houston Street has caused traffic to be diverted onto the frontage road through Hewittville.

Stayed tuned to Regional Radio News for further updates.

Volunteer of the Quarter in Pana has been announced, and it is Nick Kroenlein. Kroenlein is one of the founders of the “Hot Rods for Cancer” which holds a car show each Fall in Pana. Terry Schafer of People’s Bank and Trust with more on Kroenlein, and why he was selected.

The Hot Rods for Cancer Car Show is going to be held on September 29^th.

Two local Master Gardeners were honored for their volunteer efforts at the Illinois Master Gardner Conference back on September 7^th. The two Master Gardeners honored were Gwen Podeschi of Taylorville and Karen Cherry of Tower Hill. Combined, the two have served for 42 years as Master Gardeners, and they love what they do.

Podeschi, who took home the honor of the 2018 State Master Gardener Sustained Excellence Award, has always had it within her to be a gardener.

Cherry won the 2018 State Master Gardener Outstanding Award for Christain County. She has been a Master Gardner since 1998, and she says it is a great honor to win the award.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital hosted its first Hands-On Healthcare session on September 12^th, and the first turnout was very successful. Director of Nursing, Tracy Seaton, said the session included people from all different age groups, and that is a good thing.

Seaton says that even though the class had a very high-level exposure of nursing, they received a lot of good feedback.

Seaton also mentioned that there is always a demand in the industry for nurses, and that is only going to continue.

TMH is looking to have more Hands-On Healthcare sessions in the future according to Seaton.

When an inmate is released from prison statistics show that there is a 75% chance they will be arrested again in the next 5 years.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettlekamp wants to do everything in his power to lower this statistic. Recently he had a guest speaker come to the Christian County Jail to speak with the inmates in hopes it would be a wake up call. Lynord Joiner has been a success story out of prison and has even gone on to open his own restaurant in Springfield.

Kettlekamp says the inmates were on the edge of their seats and as quiet as a mouse with how attentive they were with Joiner. This is something Kettlekamp wants to do again as he even had some inmates writing him notes saying how beneficial this experience was.

Kettlekamp appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

Chillifest is right around the corner and the Taylorville square is starting to get the buzz of excitement that normally comes with Chilliefest.

Patty Hornbuckle is the CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce. She and her husband Greg have been working ferociously to try and make sure Chillifest 2018 is the best one to date. Hornbuckle has been going through her mental check list to try and make sure that every I is dotted and T is crossed.

Chillifest is one of the greatest time to be in Taylorville and everyone who comes out has their own traditions. Patty Hornbuckle is no different, she shares her tradition that she partakes in every year without fail.

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

Each month, the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce puts together business after hours, and this month’s host was CTI. In fact, CTI was celebrating its 20^th anniversay, and Billy Williams, co-owner of CTI, shared with Regional Radio News, the back story of how his company began.

Williams was not very old when he and his co-worker set out to create CTI. Williams says it was pretty much straight out of high school.

Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle was there as well, and she shared some words about what CTI means, and has done for the city of Taylorville.

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation held their executive meeting on Thursday September 20^th. Executive Director Marry Renner shared with Regional Radio News that a big portion of the meeting was discussing the new Business Development District. Renner had a lot of positive things to say about the new district, and is very please with Mayor Bruce Barry’s leadership.

Renner believes that the new TIF and Business Development District is vital to the growth of Taylorville. She says Pana has seen positive growth from their own district.

The majority of Thursday’s meeting revolved around the Business Development District, and Renner is very much looking forward to its impact on the city of Taylorville.

The Christian County Y-M-C-A culminated their "Member Appreciation Week" this past week, with a free lunch for members on Friday.

The Y's executive director Chris Weittenhiller, along with his staff, served chilli, chilli dogs, chips and desert.  Weittenhiller talked with Regional Radio News about the week, and Friday's event.

For more information on the Christian County Y-M-C-A, go to c-c-y-m-c-a-dot-org.

Regional Radio news has learned that Sutton Ambulance Service will be ending its service in Taylorville beginning October 1st. We are currently awaiting a statement from Sutton in regards to the closure, and we will provide updates as available.

Last night Taylorville High School opened its doors to the public for an open house at the STEM lab. This was to let the public know what exactly all this technology can do, and it did not disappoint.

Zamon Beck, a freshman at Taylorville Junior High, was responsible for presenting the Z space. He says this technology provides a great opportunity to help students learn.

The Director of Computer Services for the Taylorville School District is Chris Kuntzman. He was showing off the new virtual reality last night and says with the VR whoever is using it can do almost anything.

Taylorville High School Principal Matthew Hutchison was on hand as well. He was not surprised by the large turnout for the open house, and says getting this STEM lab really makes Taylorville schools come full circle as they teach programming as early as first grade.

Taylorville High School wants to thank everyone that came out to see the STEM lab at the open house last night.

Taylorville Square is the place to be on Saturdays as the Farmers Market comes into town every week.

Ed Downs is with the Farmers Market, he says you can really feel fall coming and they have had a busy last couple of weeks thanks in large part to dog days last weekend but he is hoping the trend continues as there are only two more farmers markets on the schedule.

Downs says they expect a large crowd on the 29^th which is the last farmers market of the year even if the sweet corn will no longer be there as meet the machines will be on the square.

The Christian County Farmers Market is every Saturday from 9 in the morning to 12:30 in the afternoon on the Taylorville Square.

October is breast cancer awareness month, and Shelbyville High School’s football team is going to be sporting pink colors to help spread awareness. This is something that the school has done for the last 7 years. Glenda Plunkett with HSHS Good Shepherd hospital says this year is special because the hospital, and the school, are teaming together to support one of the Middle School teachers.

Plunkett says that they actually researched some of the most effective ways to spread breast cancer awareness and this was one of them.

Shelbyville High School is going to be wearing pink for their game on October 5^th.

As the November 6^th election day draws nearer the candidates are putting their final touches on their campaigns this season to try and win this election.

Seth McMillan is the Republican candidate for State Senator representing the 48^th district. Seth has enjoyed his campaign season this far, he really enjoys getting out and being able to interact with the public at events.

Illinois residents are aware of the issue with people moving out of the state. McMillan says this boils down to two issues, lack of opportunity, and taxes. McMillan has seen first hand the implications this can have on businesses like his own.

McMillan appeared as a guest on the NewsTalk WTIM Morning Show.

On Wednesday night, Brandon Emery was arrested after breaking into the court house nude, and slapping a police officer. Police Chief Brian Hile shared with Regional Radio News that Emery had to be tasered by an officer to be contained. Hile also assumes that Emery was on some type of intoxicating compound at the time, and officers did not learn that he had broken into the court house until after the arrest was made.

Recently Steve Henry informed us that China was opening their stock market to the world. Since that announcement the stock market in China has plummeted.

Steve Henry of CSH Investment Professionals says he still advises staying the course if you can long term, its a marathon not a sprint.

Henry says there is still time for the China market to flip, and at the moment buyers can get in cheap.

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

Beginning October 1^st, the C.E.F.S Economic Opportunity Corporation will begin accepting applications for the 2019 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Energy Program Director, Kathy Walk, on who is eligible to apply starting October 1^st.

Walk also explains how the program works, and why it helps those who are eligible.

Walk also wants residents to know that the Christian County Outreach offices has changed to 220 West Franklin Street, but the phone number has stayed the same at 217-824-4717.

Recently State Senator Andy Manar made a stop in Taylorville to swing by Memorial Elementary School and Taylorville High School.

While at Taylorville High School Manar had the opportunity to see the new STEM lab and the virtual reality field trips the students can go on. Manar says he was shocked at what he was seeing as the class went down in the Egyptian Pyramids.

Taylorville High School is now the second school in Illinois to get a STEM lab. When Manar spoke with Superintendent Dr. Gregg Furstenau he was told how difficult it was for Taylorville to try to keep up with other schools under the old system.

Manar appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

The Taylorville Cash Store was robbed at noon on Wednesday according to Police Chief Brian Hile. The store is located at 119 West Park, and Hile shares more information on the robbery.

The two males fled the scene and there is an ongoing search. If any individuals have any information on the matter, they are encouraged to reach out to the authorities.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Taylorville Police Department received a call from Taylorville High School concerning a male juvenile subject who was irate on the football field. Once officers arrived on scene, they spoke with school officials and coaches about the situation. Taylorville Police Chief Brian Hile with more details on the situation.

The next court appearance for the subject is set for Monday.

Rock Steady Boxing is a boxing program in the Taylorville community that serves to help those affected by Parkinson’s. Lisa Tarr was able to bring Rock Steady Boxing to Taylorville, and it all started with her father.

Currently, Rock Steady Boxing has 17 participants, and they come from all over central Illinois.

Tarr is the Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry “Big Smile for the Community” because of her work with Rock Steady Boxing.

Coming up September 20^th, Taylorville high school is hosting an open house for the school’s new STEM Lab. Taylorville high school principal Matt Hutchinson says it is a great opportunity for residents to come and see what the new labs have to offer.

As a bonus for those who come out to the open house, some of the new technology will be available for use.

Hutchinson also says that in the future, Taylorville High School wants to have every curriculum be able to utilize something in the STEM Lab.

The open house will begin at 5 and goes until 6:30 in the evening.

Attending last month's Illinois State Fair when you're a 16-year-old girl from the city, provides a unique and different perception. But, that's what Rebecca Wiggins of Taylorville did. She's an aspiring writer, and she provided our farm web portal, illinoisfarmradio-dot-com, with a story on her visit to the State Fair.

Wiggins told Regional Radio News, that she learned a lot about agriculture, by attending the Fair.

And, Wiggins said it was an adventure to learn about agriculture, in many different exhibits and events that were on the Fairgrounds.

Read Wiggins' article by going to our farm web portal, illinoisfarmradio-dot-com.

Since the beginning of September there has been a Conference Committee in Washington DC trying to work on the Farm Bill to come up with something both sides can agree on.

Congressman Rodney Davis represents the 13^th District of Illinois in Washington. He says it has been difficult to find common ground between the two parties but he is trying to stay optimistic.

Davis wants more bipartisanship in this new farm bill and come up with something that works for both sides. Davis says right now there is a hold up in terms of food stamps and the Democrats do not want to invest in education and training.

The Conference Committee has till the end of the month to settle on a new Farm Bill, if they can’t the current Farm Bill will be extended. Davis says this could still work for current farmers but it impacts new ideas and programs.

Davis appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from one of its own members who is chairing the committee proposing the construction of a Taylorville Veteran’s Memorial at Lake Taylorville, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday.

Retired Taylorville dentist and long-time Kiwanis member Doctor Ron Mizer, is heading up a committee initially organized by the Downtown Taylorville Organization, to build a Veteran’s Memorial at Lake Taylorville.

Mizer told the Kiwanis members that the engineering plans are done, and approvals have been received from the City of Taylorville City Council and its Lake Committee. 

Mizer added that the Veteran’s Memorial Committee visited over half a dozen similar memorials in towns across Central Illinois, before coming up with their own plans. 

Mizer said the committee will be selling stones in the memorial, as a means of raising the 200-thousand dollars it will take to build it.

Mizer is hopeful that the project will be completed within 2 years.

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 Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from retired Taylorville dentist and long-time Kiwanis member Doctor Ron Mizer (center) during their Tuesday luncheon.  Kiwanis president Martin Vota is at the right; program chair for Tuesday’s program Rick Mazzotti is at the left.

As of July first Crop Production Services re-branded and changed their name to Nutrien Ag Solutions. But they want to make sure that residents know they are still around to help with agriculture needs. Crop Consultant Molly Holthaus shares the new branding and what all changes.

Holthaus wants residents to know that Nutrien is still here to help farmers working in the fields with pretty much anything they need to be successful.

Holthaus encourages residents to participate in the Yield Chaser Promotion and shares what the promotion is all about and what residents could possibly win.

Holthaus appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

Last month the Better Business Bureau warned us about lottery scams to look out for. This month it seems fake checks are the trend that is being used and residents need to watch out for.

Mara Clingingsmith is with the BBB in St. Louis and recently they teamed up with the BBB offices in Dallas, Omaha, Chicago, and San Francisco to look at the fake check issue. Clingingsmith says according to the calculations of the BBB around 500,000 people fall victim to fake check scams.

Cinginsmith wants residents to know what to watch out for, she gives an example of a scam that she saw a woman fall victim to in St. Louis.

Clingingsmith appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

The State Treasurer’s office is trying as hard as they can to get unclaimed money and property into the correct hands.

State Treasurer Mike Frerichs says they are launching a new program to make it easier to claim their money. Frerichs says there is still a lot of unclaimed property so now the Treasurer’s Office will be mailing checks to potential residents that fit the criteria.

Frerichs realizes that his office will not be able to mail out all the unclaimed property in Illinois. He urges residents to check out the website to see if any of this unclaimed property could be theirs. The total amount of unclaimed properties in Christian County alone is over 2 million dollars.

Frerichs appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

On Monday night, the Taylorville City council held a public hearing in regards to the new proposed business development district at the Municipal building. The goal of the new district, is to try and help businesses grow, and entice new business to come to Taylorville and help the city grow. However, a 1% sales tax will apply to certain areas of the district, and its left questions among the public, and City Council. One concern was how the new district will affect downtown. Mayor Bruce Barry commented on those concerns.

Barry also discussed how he hopes the new district will add more residential areas around the Walmart area.

The public hearing concluded just after 7 in the evening.

On Monday night, the Taylorville City Council held their second meeting of the month. To begin the meeting, Taylorville Football quarterback Brandon Odam was honored as the youth of the month for his play on the field. Also, as a tribute to all of Taylorville’s quarterbacks, Mayor Bruce Barry invited multiple past quarterbacks to the meeting to be honored as well. After that, Kristen Bolinger was sworn in as a Police Officer.

After that, an Ordinance designating and approving the Taylorville Business Development District no. 1 and imposing retailers’ Occupation tax, a service occupation tax, and a hotel operators’ occupation tax in the Taylorville Business Development District no. 1 was approved by a motion of 7-2. The new district’s goal is to bring in more businesses to the city of Taylorville, and also more young residents. Mayor Bruce Barry commented on how he hopes this will develop growth in Taylorville.

After that motion was passed, committee reports began. The Personnel committee had one motion proposed which was passed by the council. The Water/Environmental Committee had 7 motions proposed which were all passed by the council. Lastly, the Lake and Airport Committe had 6 motions proposed and passed by the council. Following the reports, the meeting was adjourned.

The Taylorville City Council meets on the first and third Monday of every month.

You can watch the entire meeting here.

Shelbyville Manor offers simply the finest in nursing care. The skilled nursing facility has an attentive staff to meet each residents individual needs.

Kim Wiley has been the Director of Marketing for Shelbyville Manor since December and has loved every minute of it. Wiley knows people may be familiar with Shelbyville Manor but she wants to expand on some of the services they offer.

The Bounce Back Program meant to do just that, help residents bounce back from an injury whether it was an accident, injury, or surgery. This program is meant to help get residents back to 100%.

Wiley appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown Shelbyville stations.

This past Saturday at Kitchell Park in Pana the Christian County Prevention Coalition put on an event called Hope for Recovery Stop the Trend. The event was designed to help those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction.

Dennis Metsker is with the Christian County Prevention Coalition and was at the event on Saturday. He says the event went very well and the purpose is all about hope and giving those struggling the resources to overcome their addiction.

Metsker wants to everyone to know that those who couldn't make the event were missed and that if you or a loved one is struggling with addiction it is not too late to place a call and get some help. Metsker shares numbers and ways to help.

The Christian County Prevention Coalition hosted this event last year in Taylorville, and this year was in Pana. The Coalition is hoping to host a third event like this in the future.

With Hurricanes moving further inland, people affected are having to evacuate their homes. The American Red Cross is preparing to provide as much help as they can to victims affected by the storms. Interim Regional Communications Director, Amber MacGrath, on what the Red Cross is doing to help right now.

The Red Cross is always looking for way to help those in need, and people in Central Illinois can aid in the relief as well. MacGrath shares some of the ways to get involved.

HSHS Good Sheperd is preparing to host its 100^th anniversary celebration September 23^rd. HSHS has an interesting history on how it was founded, it actually started in the early 1900’s when swine flue was becoming a problem among citizens. Glenda Plunkett of HSHS shares more.

There will be all kinds of events going on during the celebration including a kids corner. Plunkett says that they are going to have a lot of fun on the hospital lawn.

Everyone is invited to the event, and it is free to public beginning at 3 in the afternoon.

The U of I Extension Program has some classes coming up that residents surely will not want to miss out on.

Andrew Holsinger is the Horticulture Educator with the Extension, he has a class coming up and all residents need to bring themselves and a willingness to learn.

As a Horticulture Educator there is plenty of topics Holsinger could be teaching on. HE shares how he decided to narrow it down to a succulent plant workshop on the 25^th.

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

Mike Mounce is the Illinois Department of Natural Resources District Fishery Biologist for Shelby County.

Mike has always loved the outdoors and as he has aged has come to appreciate some time on the lake more. Mounce says it has been a good year on the lake especially for crappie (CRAW-PEE) and he does not see that changing anytime soon.

Fishing tournaments are a regular on the lake some may think that this could really harm the fish population, Mounce says the competitions help more than hurt.

Mounce appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown Shelbyville stations.

With the month of October getting closer, so is Chillifest. Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle says things are starting to get busy as Chillifest weekend approaches, but everything is starting to come together.

According to Hornbuckle however, there are still some logistics that need to be worked out before the weekend arrives.

Although there is no way to keep an exact number of people who attend Chillifest, Hornbuckle says that they are expecting a large turnout this year. She added that it will even have an economic impact on Taylorville.

Chillifest is scheduled for the first weekend in October.

The Illinois Broadcasters Association created a political survey with Research America about the race for Illinois Governor and Illinois Attorney General. The posed two simple questions regarding each position up for election. The first question asked “If the election for the Governor of Illinois were held today, which of the following four candidates would you vote for?” 44% said they would vote for Democrat JB Pritzker, 27% said they would vote for Republican Bruce Rauner, 6% indicated they would vote for conservative candidate Sam McCann. Libertarian Kash Jackson only received 4% of the vote. 4% of people also answered “None”, and another 14% said “Don’t Know/Haven’t Decided/No Answer”.

The other poll taken was the same question, but regarding the race for Attorney General. Democrat candidate Kwame Raoul received 43% of votes, Republican Ericka Harold received 32%. 21% of voters chose “Don’t Know/Haven’t Decided/No Answer. Another 4% answered “none”.

Thursday was the second day of 2 days this week, that groups of Christian County CEO students appeared on the Miller Media Group Morning Shows.

NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show host Jon Bowen interviewed 3 of the CEO students.

WMKR Genuine Country 94.3 Morning Show host Danny Russell, visited on air with the Livingston twins that are part of the Christian County CEO program.

WRAN groovy 97.3 Morning Show host Harrison Silcox, visited with 2 Christian County CEO students on Thursday.

Rural Electric Cooperative in Auburn is sending 4 employees to help with the Hurricane Florence relief in Dunn, North Carolina. The manager of operation and maintenance at Rural Electric Convenience Cooperative, Tim Hemberger, says that helping each other out is something that you do when you’re a part of the co-op family.

The four people that Rural Electric Cooperative are sending out to Dunn, North Carolina are just 4 of 80 total people from Illinois to join the relief.

Hemberger says that there is not an exact time until the 4 employees come back to Illinois. However, they’ll continue to help until the job is done.

The Christian County CEO program visited Miller Media Group and its radio stations on Thursday morning. Brandon Odam is a student in the program, and he joined Miller Media Station Groovy 97.3 as a guest on the radio. Odam says the he enjoys the program and it is different than a normal high school class.

When asked what he has learned so far about the class, Odam said that so far, he has learned the importance of managing your finances in business.

The Christian County CEO program seeks to prepare youth to be responsible, enterprising individuals who think, and become entrepreneurs.

Taylorville Square is the place to be on Saturdays as the Farmers Market comes into town every week.

Ed Downs is with the Farmers Market, he wants to thank everyone who came out last Saturday during the heavy rains to try and participate in another Farmers Market. Downs says one vendor really went above and beyond by bringing a trailer with him to make sure paying customers could shop out of the rain.

Unfortunately due to the potential of lightning last weekend the Farmers Market had to cancel their Meet the Machines event last Saturday. Downs wants to assure residents that Meet the Machines has been rescheduled to the 29^th, the last Farmers Market of the season.

The Christian County Farmers Market is every Saturday from 9 in the morning to 12:30 in the afternoon on the Taylorville Square.

Fall is the best time to plant a tree in your yard if you are thinking of doing so, this is according to Horticulture Educator with the U of I Extension Program in Taylorville Andrew Holsinger.

Holsinger goes on to say planting a tree is not as easy as just sticking it in a hole in the ground and watching it grow. There are some mistakes that he sees made repeatedly that he warns residents to avoid.

Holsinger says watering the trees can even be difficult. When watering the tree residents should take into account the size and where the tree is planted as well as the species of tree residents are tending to.

Holsinger appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

On Thursday morning three seniors from Christian County Schools stopped by the WTIM studios to share their experiences from the Christian County CEO Program.

Tyler Davis is excited to finally get to take the CEO Program course as he has been around the program since his freshman year as his dad is a mentor for the program, Davis plans on taking over the family business.

Nathan Zietlow is a senior at Pana High School, he says when he returns to school after the CEO Program in the morning everyone is always wondering why he is dressed up, he would highly recommend this course to fellow students.

Madison Good of Taylorville High School says this course is a great opportunity and while it teaches students how to run their own business the course also has plenty more to teach in terms of life skills.

Davis, Zietlow, and Good all appeared as guests on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

HSHS has started moving dirt on their new Taylorville location. Also, they have an official ground breaking ceremony set for September 25^th. Mayor Bruce Barry spoke with Regional Radio News on what HSHS will do for the city of Taylorville.

With the new HSHS coming to Taylorville, that means that new jobs will come as well. Barry expects a decent amount of new positions will come with the new building.

Barry believes that with all the new buildings under construction, the new TIF District is going to see a lot of growth in the coming years.

The Christian County CEO program visited Miller Media Group and its radio stations on Monday morning. Faith Lyndsey is a student in the program, and she has been in it for about 3 or 4 weeks. She shared her early experience with the CEO program.

Lyndsey also shared with Miller Media Group what she wants to study after high school as well as what she wants to do for her career.

The Christian County CEO Program seeks to prepare youth to be responsible, enterprising individuals who think, and become entrepreneurs.

Students are getting acclimated to Taylorville High School as they are now about a month into their first semester.

Superintendent of Taylorville Schools Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau says so far the school year is off to a great start and the renovations completed over the summer have the school sporting a new shine.

One of the reasons the school year might be off to such a great start is the new STEM lab at Taylorville High School. Fuerstenau says getting this STEM lab is a blessing and gives faculty so many options to give the kids different opportunities.

Fuerstenau appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

This Saturday at Kitchell Park in Pana residents for the opportunity to be a part of Hope for Recovery with the Christian County Prevention Coalition.

Dennis Metsker is with the Christian County Coalition says there will be plenty of local resources available at the event for those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction.

Gayle Miller has been helping Dennis put this event together, she says it came about in one of their more recent meetings an idea for a memorial for loved ones lost to drugs or alcohol.

Metsker and Miller appeared as guests on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

The Walmart in Pana has announced that it will be closing its doors this October 12^th. Christian County Economic Development Corporation executive director Mary Renner spoke with Regional Radio News on what she knows about the closure.

Renner also spoke on what the possible future holds for the Walmart building.

Pana Mayor Donald Kroski also spoke with Regional Radio news. Mayor Kroski on what he was told about the closing.

Pana will lose roughly 85 jobs with the Walmart closure, but Kroski wants citizens to understand that this may be sad, but it is important to stay positive. He says it is time for them to find businesses, and make it worthwhile to come to Pana

The closure of the Pana Walmart was announced Wednesday morning.

This week is the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chamber Week, the purpose of this week is to celebrate the Chamber.

Patty Hornbuckle is the CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce. She knows that Chamber Week is a national celebration and they are excited to celebrate with everyone.

Hornbuckle admits that this is a busy time with Chamber Week and Chillifest right around the corner. She says they started thinking about this years Chillifest as soon as last years ended and since March they have been working to make sure this is the best one yet.

Mayor Bruce Barry was also on hand to proclaim this week as Chamber Week.

Hornbuckle and Barry appeared as guests on Newstalk WTIM live during the Christian County Chamber of Commerce Chamber Week broadcast from the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.

There is always plenty going on at the Christian County YMCA that residents can get involved in to get some exercise and have some fun on the way.

Chris Weittenhiller is the Director of the Christian County YMCA, and is happy to announce that once again Silver Sneakers is coming back to the Y. He explains what the class is about.

Like with any new class it can put your mind at ease if you know the teacher that you will be dealing with. This is why the YMCA is having a meet and greet with the new instructor for the Silver Sneakers classes.

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

Yesterday, Mayor Bruce Barry held a First Responder Lunch that invited all those who help protect and serve our communities. The lunch was held at the Taylorville Fire Station and was a great success that will now be held yearly. The idea can be credited to Mayor Barry, who thought of it over the weekend.

Barry mentioned that next year the event will be more advertised, and he hopes to get more people to the lunch. However, Barry still says that the event went over very well.

The purpose of the lunch in is a way to say thank you, and honor those who take their time to protect their community.

On Tuesday morning, State Senator Any Manar visited Taylorville’s school district in regards to the school funding reform. Manar toured two different schools within the district, the first one he took a look at was Memorial Elementary School.

After that, Manar got a tour of Taylorville High School where he got his first look at the new STEM lab. He was blown away by what it had to offer, and it was something within a school that he had never seen before.

Manar also added in some kind words about Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau, and his leadership involving school funding.

The Christian County Senior Citizens Center wants to make sure that our senior citizens are taken care of.

Gerry Mahr heads up the Senior Citizens Center he says on the 18^th senior citizens will have the opportunity to hear from insurance agent Mike Herm for an hour presentation on medicare supplements as well as short and long term care plans.

This Thursday Attorney Dennis Atterbury will be at the Senior Citizens Center to help with wills and powers of attorney. Mahr urges residents to call and make a reservation as soon as they can seeing as there are only 6 available times and they are first come first serve.

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

8 of the 16 Christian County CEO students, appeared on the 3 Miller Media Group radio stations' Morning Shows Monday morning.

These 3 were interviewed on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show, by show host Jon Bowen.

These 3 were interviewed by WMKR Morning Show host Danny Russell.

CEO students Griffin Smock and Charles Spinner appeared with Harrison Silcox on the WRAN Morning Show.

The other 8 Christian County CEO students, will appear on the 3 morning shows on Thursday between 7:30 and 9am.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the Taylorville Tornadoes head football coach, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday.

Jeb Odam is a former THS football player himself, who has been coaching the Tornadoes the past several seasons.  Odam said that as a result of the Tornadoes strong 3-and-0 start, they’re ranked number 4 in the state 4-A football rankings.

Odam told the Kiwanis members that changing conferences from the Central State 8, to the Apollo, brought a whole new attitude and outlook to T-H-S students and athletes.

Odam said that with enrollment numbers being down, the number of students going out for football is also down, but he added he has a very talented group including several seniors on this year’s squad.  He added that a few of the seniors have broken Taylorville High School records in their 4 years in football.

The Tornadoes are at Mahomet-Seymour this Friday night.

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 St. Louis Dairy Council has been smiling seeing the positive trend that school lunches have been taking in recent years to get kids the nutrients they need.

Jill Williams with the St. Louis Dairy Council says school meals have always been a good source of nutrients but now they are even better thanks to the USDA trying to make the meals as balanced as possible.

Williams says the Dairy Council likes seeing that milk is always a part of school meals, but knows that there are more ways to get your daily serving of dairy than through milk.

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

This week is Chamber week, and Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle is looking forward to the celebration. That includes a live remote this Tuesday.

Despite it being a busy week with Chillifest, Chamber week is still a special week because it celebrates all that the community has done.

With Chillifest fast approaching, Hornbuckle also shared a quick preview of what the weekend will be like.

Chillifest is the first weekend in October.

The Master Gardeners of Christian County had their hands full this weekend with all the rain central Illinois received, and are counting their blessings that we didn’t get more.

Gwen Podeschi is a Master Gardener, she realizes that vegetable gardens are probably going down hill now and there is some debris that residents will want to remove from their gardens to make sure that next years crops are even better.

Podecshi wants residents to be aware that now is the prime season for many of the grass weeds and once they have set their seed it is incredibly difficult to get those weeds out.

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

Last year the students for the Christian County CEO Program had the opportunity to go out and see first and how businesses are running. This year the CEO Program is back by popular demand and has its biggest class ever with 16.

Cydnee Larson is excited for her senior year at Taylorville High School and to be a part of the CEO Program to see how exactly the businesses work.

Larson says it takes some getting used to for the CEO Program as class starts an hour earlier than they are used to. Then once the students are done with the CEO Program for the day they return to school for some regular classes as well. Larson shares a typical day with CEO Program.

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

On Monday night, the Taylorville Board of Education held their monthly meeting at the Administration Education Center. First discussed was a consideration of an overnight trip for the Taylorville Livestock Team to attend the National FFA Conference in Louisville, Kentucky and the Livestock Judging Event in Denver, Colorado. That motion cleared unanimously by the board. Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau spoke on what that opportunity will provide the high school students, and the honor of being invited.

Also, Taylorville High School’s upcoming career day was discussed. The career day is going to be on October 3rd, and its goal is to expose students to different careers through guest speakers. There will be 100 speakers in total, and each student is required to sit through 4 sessions. The new district website was displayed as well. Since school began, the website has been up and running, however the new district app for smartphones is not quite finished. A video was also showed that highlighted all schools within the district that will play on the website once it is finalized.

Following the video, there was a consideration of hazardous walkway resolution, that motion was carried unanimously. The 2018-2019 enrollment was also reviewed, and later the meeting went into a closed session. Following the closed session, Dr. Fuerstenau gave his Superintendent report, and then the meeting was adjourned.

Also of note, Senator Andy Manar is going to visit two schools within the Taylorville School District. Fuerstenau was able to speak on that matter as well.

The Taylorville Board of Education meets on the second Monday of every month. You can watch the full council meeting here.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest committee held a meeting Monday afternoon at the Chamber board room, as the event is less than a month away.  Chillifest on the Taylorville square is October 6th and 7th.

Committee chairs that oversee the many different parts of Chillifest, reported on progress as they finalize the pageants, entertainment, logistics, the Kids' Zone, and the Bags Tournament, among other things.

It was announced at Monday night's Chillifest committee meeting, that Taylorville Memorial Hospital will be this year's sponsor of the Kids' Zone, and will provide volunteers and supplies for that area both days.  Hospital C-E-O Kim Bourne was present at Monday night's meeting outlining how the hospital will be involved both financially and in providing volunteers for Kids' Zone, that will include many interactive booths.

Taylorville mayor Bruce Barry reported that the Bags Tournament has raised some 2-thousand dollars for prize money, toward their 5-thousand dollar goal.  Barry added that entrants for the 2 days of Bags competition, will be coming from as far away as California.

Craft vendors and chilli cooks, are both needed for this year's Greater Taylorville Chillifest.  Forms and related information can be downloaded at the event's web site chillifest-dot-info, that's chillifest with 2-L's.

The Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce wants to let Shelbyville residents know what is going on in their city.

Jody McCormick took over as the Director of the Chamber in January and one program she really wanted to get going was business of the month.

Due to the fact the most of the larger employers kept winning McCormick decided to open the Business of the Month to the public so they could nominate local businesses. This month the winner was Ace Hardware.

McCormick appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from our downtown Shelbyville studios.

Congressman Rodney Davis made a trip home from Washington this weekend to be with his two sons and celebrate senior night last Friday. Davis says he is extremely proud of this senior class and all that they have accomplished and says the kids should feel lucky they had the opportunity to move on from him as their coach.

Davis admits to feeling old seeing as his sons are both seniors, he tips his cap to the coaching staff for taking this talented team and bringing the successes they have back to Taylorville.

Davis appeared as a guest during the WTIM Halftime Show during Friday nights football broadcast that saw the Tornadoes defeat the Charleston Trojans 40-13.

Shelby County Community Services has been around since the 70’s with a multitude of programs to help a variety of problems residents could be struggling with.

Amy Cleary is the Unit Coordinator for Substance Abuse Counseling with Shelby County Community Services. She is very happy with her program and the growth they have been experiencing recently. Cleary speaks in depth about her program.

Cleary says her program was lucky enough to partner up and open a facility as well in the Taylorville area as of August 1^st.

Cleary appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from our downtown Shelbyville studios.

The end of the fiscal year hits the politicians serving in DC at the end of this month on the 30^th.

Congressman Rodney Davis serves the 13^th District of Illinois he currently has his hands full with the farm bill but will have to juggle that with the possibility of not passing the end of the year spending bills to keep the government running.

Davis says it boils down to all parties working together to come up with something that works for everyone involved.

Davis appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show.

The Taylorville School Board met on September 6^th for a disciplinary hearing regarding an incident on August 29^th. The incident included a female juvenile who left a threatening note in a girls bathroom which forced the school into a lock down. Following the disciplinary hearing, the board voted to expel the student from Taylorville High School for two years, and can not participate in any school related events.

Nine $1,000 scholarships were earned by 4-H members enrolled in beef, swine, and sheep projects. Rebecca Livingston with the University of Illinois Extension with more on the scholarship.

Lizzie Schafer of Christian County was one of the scholarship recipients. Livingston was very excited to see someone local earn a scholarship that was competed for at the state level.

The $1,000 Scholarship is used to help fund for college expenses.

The Taylorville Tornadoes continued their winning ways on Friday night after toppling the Charleston Trojans 40-13. Scoring got started off quick as return man Yemi Odugabason took back the opening kick off for the first touchdown of the game. The Trojans were able to tie the game with a run from running back Brayden Doyle from the 1 yard line. After that however, it was all Tornadoes, they scored 34 unanswered points, and put the game away with ease. Head coach Jeb Odam on the positives and negatives from the win.

ODAM1 KEY: Q LENG: :33

Odam stressed that his team needs to do a better job establishing the run game, and also looked ahead to next weeks match up against Mahomet-Seymour.

ODAM2 KEY: W LENG: :31

The Tornadoes are back in action next Friday at Mahomet-Seymour. Pre-game starts at 6:45 in the evening on News Talk WTIM.

Heavy rainfall is working its way through central Illinois this weekend, and we could see 6 to 8 inches of rainfall. This has the possibility to cause some flash flooding in Taylorville and other nearby areas. Fire Chief Mike Crews with more.

With the heavy rainfall, it is important to stay safe while driving as well.

Once again, heavy rainfall is expected for today through Sunday from a stalled cold front and the remnants of tropical storm Gordon. The rain could lead to localized flash flooding, flooding of roads in low lying or poor drainage areas, and flooding along local rivers and streams.

Once a year the Farmers Market on the Taylorville Square holds Meet the Machines at the Farmers Market. It is a great way to draw a lot of young people to the market to see the equipment. Due to the inclement weather the Farmers Market is being forced to cancel the Meet the Machines that was set to take place this weekend.

Ed Downs with the Farmers Market says this boils down to public safety. The good news is that Meet the Machines will be back on the schedule September 29^th.

Downs wants residents to know that just because the Meet the Machines has been canceled does not mean that the Farmers Market will not go on.

The Christian County Farmers Market is every Saturday from 9 in the morning to 12:30 in the afternoon on the Taylorville Square.

On Thursday, the Taylorville Fire Department responded to a residential fire at 910 Heights Avenue. Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall with more details on the fire.

There were injuries to report on the scene, and one victim was sent to a hospital in Springfield for further care.

Taylorville Square is the place to be on Saturdays as the Farmers Market comes into town every week.

Ed Downs is with the Farmers Market, he says when coming out to the Farmers Market you will start to see a changing of the seasons as more and more fall items are rolling in.

Downs admits this is surprising but he is still excited to see Illinois super sweet corn coming to the market this late in the season.

The Christian County Farmers Market is every Saturday from 9 in the morning to 12:30 in the afternoon on the Taylorville Square.

The Board of Directors and the staff of the Christian County Historical Society and Museum have canceled Prairie Days which was set for this weekend. Maureen Bruns who is with the Historical Society says that the decision was for the best.

Bruns says that all vendor fees are going to be refunded due to the event being canceled. There is also has been a new date set for Praire Days.

The historical society does want to remind people that they are still holding their annual Persimmon Party, and Little Miss Persimmon Pageant on November 3^rd.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is the place to be if you want to know what is going on in the city of Taylorville.

CEO of the Chamber Patty Hornbuckle wants residents to know that there is a new opportunity, through the business Behind Locked Doors, to step into the Rage Cage.

There is an assortment of items to take a whack at while inside the Rage Cage. Patty wants any residents who are dealing with stress or frustration to consider stepping into the Rage Cage and seeing the mood improve after.

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

The Taylorville Fire Department Dive team responded to a submerged car in a pond in Assumption off Route 51. Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall was on the scene.

Goodall believes that incident happened over night, and that the occupant of the vehicle left the scene with the car in the pond. There are no injuries to report either according to Goodall.

Heavy rainfall is working its way through central Illinois this weekend, and we could see 6 to 8 inches of rainfall. This has the possibility to cause some flash flooding in Taylorville and Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall wants to make sure that everyone stays safe.

There are steps that can be taken to prepare for the rainfall, and Goodall shared what people should do ahead before the rain arrives.

The rainfall is expected over come through over the next 5 days.

Another popular event is returning to the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest on the square October 7th.

The Taylorville F-F-A will again present the Annual Chillifest Pedal Tractor Pull on the square at 1pm. 

There will be 4 classes of competition:  3 and 4-year-olds, 5 and 6-year-olds; 7 and 8-year-olds, and 9 and 10-year-olds.

Registration takes place at the event location an hour before the event. 

The event form and related information can be found on the Chillifest web site, chillifest-dot-info, that’s “chillifest” with 2-L’s.

The Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation just completed the 32^nd session of the Lose-to-Win Challenge. It is a 14 week challenge that encourages its participants to lose weight, and keep track of how much they lose. Janelle Cornell, the Clinical Dietitian for Taylorville Memorial Hospital, says that thousands of people have come through the program since it began in 2008.

The last 14 week session had 130 total participants, and they lost a combined total of 1,022 pounds. Since the challenge began in 2008, the total weight loss is up to 54,844 pounds.

The next 14 week challenge began yesterday, but Cornell says that it is still not too late to get involved at 824-1840.

Avery Bourne represents the 95^th District in the Illinois House of Representatives and is up for reelection this November. Bourne enjoys the campaign season and is excited for what she calls traveling Tuesdays.

Bourne says the responses vary from someone just stopping by to say hello to issues that residents are dealing with at the time and want to voice their concerns.

Bourne recalls a specific instance from a traveling Tuesday that involves a former teacher of hers.

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

Steve Henry with CSH Investments is the go to guy in Taylorville for investment advice on the stock market and bonds.

Henry reflects on his business and how he wants to be transparent with his customers and avoid hidden fees.

Henry knows it is important to keep an eye on key metrics when investing to know if it is worth it or not.

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

Republican State Senate Candidate Seth McMillan failed to disclose small, no-bid contracts that his landscaping company secured with the Taylorville School District. This was during a time when McMillan sat on the district’s School Board. McMillan admits that this was a mistake, and shared with Regional Radio News his comment on the situation.

McMillan’s opponent is State Senator Andy Manar, who spoke with Regional Radio News as well.

Both McMillan and Manar are running for Illinois State Senate in the 48^th District.

Steak n Shake is coming to Taylorville, the question now is when? David Bruno, with Stuller Inc., the company building the new Steak N’ Shake, shared with Regional Radio News when he estimates the building will be finished. Bruno says that they are still waiting on bids, but wants to break ground as soon as possible.

Bruno expect for Steak n Shake to be completed by early 2019 if everything goes as scheduled.

Steak N’ Shake was announced to come to Taylorville earlier this summer.

The Conference Committee tasked with handling the Farm Bill is set to meet in Washington and has till the end of the month to come up with something that both the House and Senate can agree to pass.

Congressman Rodney Davis serves the Illinois 13^th District and he is on the Conference Committee now for his second time. He says this is a big deal, he doesn't want to have to extend the current bill and is looking forward to being the voice of Central Illinois on the matter at hand.

Davis says the agriculture side has been neglected in recent Farm Bills and he is hoping to fix that this time around, specifically looking at ag research to keep the ball moving forward in the field.

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

Everyone knows someone who is affected by drugs in some way or another whether that is through their own addiction or a loved one that is struggling.

The Christian County Prevention Coalition is out on a mission to make a difference in the community to help those who are struggling. Dennis Metsker says the event, Hope For Recovery End The Trend, coming up on September 15^th at Kitchell Park in Pana is hoping to make a real difference.

This day is about giving those struggling with drug addiction the means to get help and the resources to make a difference. Gail Miller is also with the Christian County Prevention Coalition, she says one of her favorite aspects of the day is the job listing booth.

Metsker and Miller appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville City Council held their first City Council Meeting of the month at the Taylorville Municipal Building on Tuesday Night. Before the meeting, they held a public forum discussing the request of Taylorville Memorial Hospital for a Special Use to build an 80-foot-tall communications tower at the hospital. However, the forum had to be tabled. Mayor Bruce Barry explains.

After the public forum, the City Council began Tuesday night’s meeting. To start off, both Jeff Stoner and Kyle Rentfrow of the Taylorville Fire Department were sworn in as TFD Fire Arson Investigators. After that, a motion to approve the Plan and Zone Commission Recommendation for the HSHS Building were approved by a motion of 6-0. Then a motion was tabled regarding the Plan and Zone Commission Recommendations for TMH. Also, an Ordinance Authorizing the Sale of Personal Property Owned by the City of Taylorville carried by a vote of 9-0. Following that two motions carried, one of them being a Resolution Approving Execution of a Global Release and Settlement Agreement. The other was a Resolution Approving Execution of General Release with Chicago Title Insurance Company. A motion to grant a special events permit to St. Mary’s Fall Fiesta to begin at 4pm and go until 9pm was approved. Finally, the Street and Sewer committee held a motion to recommend the council to approve the special events permit for Kiwanis Club Peanut drive September 28^th through the 29^th at the corner of West Main Cross and Webster. That motion was carried unanimously.

The Taylorville City Council meets on the first and 3^rd Monday of every month at the Taylorville Municipal Building.

You can watch the full meeting here.

Business After Hours with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is always a popular event and the next one is coming up on the 19^th of September.

CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Patty Hornbuckle says CTI is a frequent stop for Business After Hours and it never seems to disappoint.

Hornbuckle says for the Business After Hours the Chamber really tries to stay out of the way, in terms of set up or theme it is all on the business that is hosting.

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

Dog Days is on its way to the Taylorville Square, coming September 15^th. The event is family friendly, and all about dogs. There will be multiple events planned during the day, that will be for all dogs, and owners. JT Kolesa is working with Dog Days, and has more details on the events.

Dog Days has been an event in the past, but this year Doctor Stacy Funderburk is trying to promote it more.

Dog Days will begin September 15^th from 9 in the morning until 1 in the afternoon.

This Friday night, the new turf at Taylorville High School will host its first varsity football game. Both Mayor Bruce Barry, and Athletic Director Paul Held are looking forward to Friday night. Mayor Barry says the debut of the turf will be a good community event for the city of Taylorville.

Held has heard great reviews from the turf so far. However, he is excited for all the people who will come out to watch the game, and see the difference between the old field, and new turf.

Taylorville will play Charleston on Friday night, and it is also going to be Senior Night for the Tornadoes.

State Senator Andy Manar, representing the 48^th District, held a news conference today at the Taylorville Municipal building announcing an endorsement from AFSCME. Bruce Dubre vice president of AFSCME was on hand as well. He spoke about what AFSCME does, and announced their support for Manar.

Dubre also complimented the work that Manar has done to help pay back wages to state workers.

After Dubre spoke, Manar addressed the crowd, and spoke on what he will continue to do if he is re-elected. He also promised to continue to be vocal on retirement security.

Manar is running for State Senate in the 48^th district.

Betty Rose is celebrating her 30 year anniversary of being in the furniture business this September. Rose with more on the anniversary sale going on through September. The sale includes a drawing at the end of the month.

Rose actually started off working in Springfield before she made the move out to Taylorville, and she has no regrets about it.

30 year is quite a long time, and Rose thinks that her honesty is what has helped her stay in business for so long.

Betty Rose’s Furniture is located on the Taylorville Square.

The Pana Tri-County fair finished today. Festivities began on Wednesday night with the pageants, and Regional Radio News spoke with Junior Miss Claire Kuhn at the fair. She explained why she entered in the pageant, and that she did not expect to win.

With her winning the crown, she was able to take part in a lot of fair events.

Kuhn was a guest during a live remote broadcast at the Pana Tri-County Fair on Genuine Country WMKR.

On Friday night the Tornadoes cruised to a win over the Effdingham Falming Hearts 64-20 in Effingham. Wide receiver Yemi Odugabason piled up 3 touchdowns in the win, and All-State wide out Justin Wright added one as well. Head coach Jeb Odam spoke on his quarterback Brandon Odam, and the offense’s ability with two capable receivers on the outside.

Just after a Tornado touchdown in the 3^rd quarter, the game went into a weather delay due to some nearby lightning. Coach Odam spoke on how he kept his team focused.

Next week the Tornadoes play at home for the first time of the season. That means the new turf will debut as Charleston comes to town. Coach Odam is looking forward to that as well as senior night.

After Friday night’s win, Taylorville improved to 2-0 on the season remaining undefeated.

Taylorville residents are excited for the new TIF District that is helping bring Steak N’ Shake to town. With that TIF District comes a Business Development District as well.

Mayor Bruce Barry says Steak N’ Shake coming to town really set the ball in motion for the Business Development District and multiple businesses are vying to be a part of this.

Barry wants the public to come out and join in the discussion at the required public hearing. Barry mentions a lot of feedback he has gotten has been positive.

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

September is Food Safety Awareness Month and the University of Illinois Extension Program wants to make sure that Central Illinois stays safe when grilling out.

Lisa Peterson is the Nutrition and Wellness Expert with the Extension Program. She wants to urge residents to cook their food to the correct temperature, and the only way to truly know is with a food thermometer.

The University of Illinois recently finished their study about what produces the tastiest pork. While 160 degrees is the recommended number if you only make it to 145 that is still safe to eat and will make the pork that much better.

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

Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR boradcast live from the Pana Tri-County fair.

Mark Craig is a participant in the tractor pull on Saturday night. He says he got into it because it is something that was on his bucket list and it really is a great adrenaline rush.

Mark Dressen is looking forward to the schedule on Monday which includes the demolition derby that wraps up the Pana Tri-County Fair and is one of if not the most popular event.

Craig and Dressen appeared as guests on Genuine County 94.3 WMKR live at the Pana Tri-County Fair.