A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect through 6 this evening in multiple counties south of Central Illinois. This includes Effingham county, and meteorologist Kirk Huettl (Hitel) on what can residents can expect.

With the winter weather rolling through, remember to be safe if traveling on the roads.

Today was the last day on-the-air for Miller Media Group staff announcer Danny Russell.  Russell resigned to pursue a career outside of broadcasting.

In recognition of Danny's over 40 years of broadcasting, Congressman Rodney Davis called during the WMKR Morning Show to congratulate him and wish him well in his new career.

Taylorville mayor Bruce Barry also brought a proclamation designating February 28th as Danny Russell Day in the City of Taylorville.

Miller Media Group president Randal J. Miller then opened up the phone lines during the WMKR Morning Show, for listeners to call and wish Danny well.

Russell is taking a job with the City of Taylorville at its new water treatment plant.

Officials for Moultrie County are getting ready for the candidates forum that will include those running for five City Council positions as well as those running for Mayor.

Executive Director of the Chamber and Economic Development Laurrie Minor explains when and where the forum will be.

Coming up at the end of April once again will be the Business Expo, Minor says this year they will be changing it up a little bit.

Minor appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our Sullivan Studios.

It is tax season for Central Illinois residents. While some have gotten it out of the way early, others are still working through the forms.

Moultrie County Treasurer Stephanie Helmuth says some residents may be a little confused on the tax process.

While Helmuth does get involved periodically but it is normally when she has to talk to someone about what happens if they do not do their taxes.

Helmuth appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our Sullivan Studios.

The University of Illinois Extension is holding another Horticulture class in March. Andrew Holsinger will be hosting a Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop at Kehias Farm in Pana. Holsinger says the workshop will take a look at a lot of different fruit trees.

Holsinger says those who attend will be able to learn the basics of pruning fruit trees.

The workshop will be March 21st from 1 until 4 in the afternoon. For those interested in attending must register before March 20th.

This past Saturday, the Christian County CEO Students held their annual banquet. The banquet is organized, and hosted by the students of the class, and CEO Student Faith Lindsey said the night was a success.

The entire class organizes the event each year, and it was a rewarding experience to for the students to see their hard work pay off.

The Banquet was held at the Pillars Event Center last Saturday.

The Moultrie County Senior Citizens Center is wrapping up their February schedule and gearing up for March.

The Senior Citizens has teamed up with Courtyard Estates for their Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest, this was their 11th year together and it was as successful as ever.

With the Valentine’s Day Poetry Contest behind them the Senior Citizens Center now moves on to March and is hoping to launch a new program.

Garvey appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our Sullivan Studios.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry wants to make residents aware that he will be giving a tour of the affected tornado areas to a group of Northern Michigan University students this weekend. 
 

The canvasing will be from 9 in the morning until 3 in the afternoon Saturday, and could continue next week.

Tuesday morning President Donald Trump landed in Vietnam to hold a two day summit to meet with North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un.

Jim Bohannon, host of the Jim Bohannon show airing weeknights on Newstalk WTIM at 9, says the meeting is in hopes that North Korea gives up their nuclear program.

Bohannon cannot imagine North Korea holding out too much longer after China backed out of trading with them, he sees this as an advantage for the United States.

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

For the past 18 months Taylorville residents have seen work being done out at the water treatment facility in town.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry says he gathered the other Mayors from Christian County to take a tour of the facility.

Barry says while they made be a couple weeks behind schedule it is better to make sure everything is done right instead of trying to rush the process.

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

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the new principal at Taylorville Junior High School, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday.

Jessica Miller began her teaching career in 2001 at Pana, focusing on information technology.  She later earned her administration certificate and became the T-J-H-S principal this year.

Miller told the Kiwanis Club that with the help of students and faculty, she developed a mission/vision/values statement for the junior high school.

Miller added that she is enabling students to experience leadership in community outreach, activities, and fund-raising to give to community causes.

Miller said some 40 8th graders at T-J-H-S are involved in “Project Lead the Way” in the technology STEM lab, and she added that the junior high school offers 9 different extra-curricular activities for students.

Future projects for the Junior High include an outside classroom, and integrating agriculture into the junior high curriculum.

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.

Keep your eyes on Washington in the upcoming days to see bills are and are not pushed through the Senate and House.

Congressman Rodney Davis there is a bill heading to the floor as early as this week that he is against that will go against the 2nd Amendment.

Davis and his colleagues realize that something needs to be done about the mass shootings, he thinks there is a better solution than the one the Democrats are bringing to the floor.

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

The Christian County LEADership program had the opportunity last week to tour the Taylorville Correctional Center (TCC). Linda Smith of the program talks about the unique opportunity.

One unique takeaway from the tour was all the resources that inmates at the TCC have available to help them get back on their feet, such as horticulture classes.

Smith says that many participants walked away from the TCC with a new perspective.

The upgrades to the surgery department at Pana Community Hospital are nearly done.

Surgery Department Manager Bob Ludwig says these new renovations are something they have been excited about for a long time and cannot wait to see when they officially open.

Ludwig says he and his staff are grateful that they had the opportunity to give their input on the project.

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

Monday night, the Taylorville Park Board held their monthly meeting. First presented was the treasurer’s report which was approved. Included in the treasurer’s report was a payment of $99,831 for playground upgrades for the new playground being built at Manners Park. Following that was the 2019-20 operating budget which was approved. Later, recreation director Bailey Hancock was pleased to report that 13 volunteers have stepped up to help remove the old Manners Park playground.

The timetable for the new playground to be in place, Hancock says hopefully by this summer.

After that, the finance committee had the payment of bills approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

The Taylorville Park Board meets on the fourth Monday on every month.

Some Central Illinois residents may need to get around but do not have the means to do so themselves, that is where Central Illinois Public Transit comes in.

Mobility Manager Nathan Nichols explains how the Central Illinois Public Transit works saying they cater to pretty much everyone.

Due to a recent retirement they have an opening for a new driver. Nichols welcomes all to come in and apply.

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

The C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corporation’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as LIHEAP, still has energy assistance funding available for winter utility assistance. LIHEAP provides one-time grants to help income eligible households pay for their winter utility expenses. Energy Program Director Kathy Walk explains more.

Walk shares on how residents can apply.

The deadline to apply is May 31st. 

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office reported that a scammer stole $30,000 from a Christian County resident. Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp explains how the scammers were able to get into the resident’s computer.

After that, they were able to steal thousands of dollars from the victim.

The scammer also convinced the victim to purchase another $6,000 in gift cards, and give the scammer those redemption codes. Kettelkamp says the unfortunate part is that is unlikely that law enforcement will be able to track anyone down.

Kettelkamp strongly advises anyone who is a victim of a scam to reach out the the FBI online, and go to their internet crime complain center.

Last week, the University of Illinois Extension held their Pruning Apples and More Workshop. The class was designed to help educated gardeners how to reap the greatest benefit from their fruit trees. Andrew Holsinger from the Extension said it turned out to be an eventful day.

Despite having to put on two different workshops, both classes got to take a look at a lot of different things.

The next Horticulture workshop planned will be March 2nd. Tree care will be the topic of discussion.

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital in Shelbyville has recently been undergoing renovations and are happy to say that they are almost ready to show the public.

Aaron Puchbauer is the CEO of HSHS Good Shepherd he says they are in the final stages of construction.

Puchbauer says they are really looking forward to having the individual rooms for patients to help with privacy.

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

Fresh of a successful Holiday Extravaganza, Taylorville Memorial Hospital is gearing up for another event this weekend with Men Who Cook.

TMH Volunteer and Auxiliary Liaison Debbie Johnson says this is an event you do not want to miss as it will feature some of the best food you’ll see all year.

The cooks for this event come from near and far to participate, some have been doing this for years others this will be their first time. Johnson says one of the cooks has been a part of this event every year since the beginning.

There are awards and bragging rights up for grabs for these cooks as well. Johnson shares what those arwards are.

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

The new HSHS coming to Taylorville is continuing to work for its opening day. Craig Brace, Director of Marketing and Communications, is thrilled with the progress that has been made. Opening day is on track for the middle of May.

Brace also spoke on some of the services the new location will provide.

Also, before opening day, HSHS is planning to have open house welcome to anyone in the community.

HSHS began construction back in the fall.

On the third Wednesday of every month it becomes time once again for Business After Hours with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.

CEO of the Chamber Patty Hornbuckle says that the Business After Hours at the Moose Lodge in Taylorville had some of her favorites to eat.

Hornbuckle says the event was a roaring success and was a great opportunity for the Moose to let the public know what all is coming up.

Hornbuckle says mark your calendars for the next Business After Hours on March 20th as it will be tri-hosted.

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

Wednesday was Governor J.B. Pritzker’s Budget Address. State Representative of the 95th district, Avery Bourne, has concerns with a lot of what the Pritzker addressed. That includes pushing pensions back a possible 8 years.

Bourne does believe there is opportunity in the future, but she is skeptical about whether or not that progress can be made.

In Pritzkers first Budget Address he asked for $1.1 billion in new revenue. That included the possibility of recreational marijuana, and sports gambling.

State Senator of the 48th District, Andy Manar, was pleased after hearing Governor J.B. Pritzker’s Budget address on Wednesday. He thought Pritzker outlined a broad message of budget reform necessary for Illinois.

While the state currently has it’s fair share of problems, Manar believes Pritzker laid the foundation for future solutions.

The recent change in the Illinois minimum wage is already concerning for Congressman Rodney Davis. Even though the wage change will develop each year until hitting the $15 an hour mark in 2025, Davis wishes the state would have taken a different look.

Davis also believes that there a non-minimum wage paying jobs out there, and the State’s government is failing to see those.

The minimum wage in Illinois currently sits at $8.25.

National FFA Week is coming to a close and it has been a great week to spread the word about FFA and what all it can do for youth interested in agriculture.

Zander Doan is the President of the Edinburg FFA Chapter he shares what FFA is all about.

Riley Bates is the Edinburg FFA Chapter Secretary she shares her experience in joining FFA back in her middle school days.

Edinburg FFA Chapter Treasurer Noah Oller says he is looking forward to the district competitions and the chance to go to state.

Doan, Bates, and Oller appeared as guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Tuesday, Governor J.B. Pritzker officially signed the $15 minimum wage bill into law. However, Avery Bourne, State Representative of the 95th district is not pleased with the change. Bourne was frustrated with Pritzker, saying he did not negotiate with both sides of the isle.

Bourne says that there were a lot of offers for compromise on the bill, but democrats sent a clear message of what they want.

Bourne did not like how the Democrats pushed the bill into law, and it worries her on what the this means for Illinois moving forward.

The minimum wage will eventually reach $15 an hour January 1st, 2025.

It’s National FFA week and the Taylorville chapter has a lot going on. Taylorville FFA Advisor Sue Schafer on what they have going on this week.

Schafer says that this years national FFA week has a different feel to it, after Taylorville won the national championship in Denver Colorado not too long ago.

There is a lot of different things going on with FFA this week but Schafer just looks forward to giving back to the staff, and community.

Yesterday Governor JB Pritzker for the first time in his tenure had the opportunity to give the Budget Address.

Pritzker first took asked for those in attendance to join him in a moment of silence for those lost in the Aurora shooting. With his next comments Pritzker would speak on how he is acknowledging the past while trying to keep an eye on the future.

Pritzker realizes that in years past the budgeting process has been borderline of a dictatorship, he says this will now be a thing of the past as he is looking forward to working with everyone in Springfield for the good of the state.

You can hear the entire Budget Address from Governor JB Pritzker at Taylorvilledailynews.com

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from a Taylorville physician about Alzheimer’s Disease, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday.

  Dr. Pavi Gill's presentation was on "The Human Brain & Alzheimer's Disease."   Dr. Gill talked about many different case studies and the results of these studies.  

Dr. Gill added that the advancement in the study of the brain and its functions have been inconceivable.  

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.

CAPTION TO PICTURE:  Taylorville physician Dr. Pavi Gill and several of his staff members, attended Tuesday’s weekly meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club where Dr. Gill was guest speaker.  From the left:  Staff member Stacy Wieland; Kiwanis president Micheal Evanchak who presided over the meeting; guest speaker Dr. Pavi Gill;  staff member Nancy Rickman; and staff member Joan Myer.  Not pictured is staff member Stacy Babbs who also attended the Kiwanis meeting.

Recently the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary wrapped up their Holiday Extravaganza.

TMH Volunteer and Auxiliary Liaison Debbie Johnson says this extravaganza could not have gone any better as it was one of their most successful to date.

Over 30 gift baskets were up for bid at the event Johnson says all of the baskets were fantastic but the money basket always seems to be the most popular.

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

Recently, lawmakers provided roughly $1.4 billion for President Donald Trump’s border wall. Despite falling $4 billion short of the original request, Congressman Rodney Davis, representing the 13th District of Illinois, is pleased to finally have some funding to strengthen the border.

Davis does agree that there is a crisis along the southern boarder with drugs making their way into the United States. Although he considers it an emergency, Davis does not always agree with executive acts. However, he does want both parties to see eye to eye on the issues along the country’s boarder national emergency, or not.

When looking toward the future in regards to the boarder, Davis says they need to continue finding ways to fund the wall.

Davis is proudly bipartisan, and hopes that moving forward both democrats and republicans find a solution to securing the country’s boarder.

The Christian County YMCA is getting ready to kick off their annual March Mania where members sign up to compete in a month long fitness challenge. Membership and Marketing Director, Mary Kate Curtin, explains how the mania works.

Curtin says that its a great way to to find motivation to exercise, and you can do it with friends.

The deadline to sign up for March Mania is March 1st. The cost is $10 per individual, and you can sign up by heading over to the YMCA.

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

Recently Henry had the opportunity to head out to Los Angeles with his son to hear Charlie Munger speak.

Henry says at the conference Munger was asked the keys to his company’s success, here is his answer.

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

On Tuesday night, the Taylorville City Council held thier second monthly meeting, and it started off with two big announcments. First, the volunteers of the month were honored, and it went to all 13 members of Missions for Taylorville after their efforst to help raise money, and help those affected, after the December 1st tornado. The second announcement was expected, but emotional as Alderman Bruce Jones announced his retirement from the council.

After the meeting, Jones reflected on his 17 years working with the city of Taylorville.

After that, the council passed four motions before getting to the committee reports. The Emergency Services, Water and Environmental, and Lake and Airport committess all had motions passed.

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

Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker will deliver his first Budget Address before a joint session of the Illinois General Assembly, on Wednesday at noon. The Newstalk WTIM Network will broadcast the Governor's speech live, and it will also be streamed on our many on-line platforms. 

With pressure cookers, also known as instapots, gaining in popularity Taylorville Memorial Hospital will be teaching how to cook healthy while using one. Dietitian Janelle Cornell says it is a newer method of cooking, and she reached out to Lisa Peterson of the U of I Extension to help teach the class.

This is a new class that TMH is planning to host, but Cornell is looking forward to the potential turnout.

For those interested in attending the class, Cornell says to just reach out to her.

The Pressure Cooker class will be held on March 14th.

Anticipation continues to build for the new Steak N’ Shake in Taylorville. David Bruno with Stuller Inc. says they are still on schedule to open their doors at the end of March.

Bruno says the building is finally starting to come together, the excitement has never been higher.

The target date for opening day is March 31st, and all signs point to reaching that date on schedule. Bruno also says that the capacity on the new building will be roughly 90 people.

Two students from the Nokomis FFA Chapter are looking forward to their opportunity to compete at the state level.

Mackenzie Adams is a senior at Nokomis High School, she is the reporter for their FFA Chapter. She is waiting to hear back on whether or not she will be receiving the highest honor the state can hand out.

Kaden Reynolds is a sophomore member of the Nokomis FFA Chapter, he is looking forward to his opportunity to present his Wildlife Production and Management findings at state.

Kristen Mascher is the young gun in the group as she is just an 8th grader. She serves as the Nokomis FFA Chapter Liaison, she got into FFA because of her brother and has recently being working on a science fair project revolving around coffee grounds.

Adams, Reynolds, and Mascher each appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Monday kicked off National FFA week, it’s a time to share what FFA is and the impact it has on members every day.

Chase Timmon is the President of the Pana FFA Chapter, he speaks on the responsibilities of being the President.

The Pana FFA Chapter has plenty of projects coming up that they are excited to get busy on, Timmon shares what those projects are.

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

The Shelby County Office of Tourism is hard at work getting ready for the 2019 season.

Freddie Fry with the Shelby County Office of Tourism the big project they are working on at the moment is the new visitor guide.

Fry said the IDNR logo was added in hopes that in continues to validate the work that they do.

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

For students looking for an exciting after school activity Shelbyville High School has a great after school program to get involved.

Nicki Beyers is the Youth Ministry Coordinator at Shelby Christian Church, she wants to make the public aware of the GAP program.

The GAP program tries to develop well rounded individuals. Beyers explains what a typical day in the GAP program can be like.

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

Constituents on both sides of the aisle in Springfield are eagerly awaiting Wednesday to hear the Budget Address from Governor Pritzker.

State Senator Andy Manar represents the 48th District of Illinois. He says the Budget Address is what really sets the ball in motion.

Manar says there are some really positive trends Illinoisans should pay attention to leading up to the Budget Address.

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

The National Weather Service in Lincoln has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Regional Radio listening area thru Sunday afternoon.

The Weather Service says another winter storm system will effect Illinois this weekend, mainly tonight through Sunday evening, and will bring periods of snow, freezing rain and rain to central and southeast Illinois. 

The highest snow totals appear to be northwest of the Illinois river, where 2 to 4 inches of snow are possible. Snowfall of 1 to 2 inches may occur southeast of the Illinois river toward the I-72 corridor. 

The Weather Service added that light icing from freezing rain is also possible from late tonight through Sunday morning, before warm air changes that precipitation to all rain. Icing amounts should remain minor, less than a tenth of an inch. 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for the latest weather information.

The Christian County LEADership program had the opportunity to hear from local elected officials over the last week. Linda Smith from the program said it was a great experience to hear from the local officials, and why the ran for their current positions. She said it was a different prospective to speak with them in a one on one setting.

Smith describes the experience as a great opportunity for LEAD participants, if they’re interested in running for positions in the future.

LEAD also got to hear from retired Ilinois 4th Judicial Circuit Court Judge, Ron Spears, who spoke about Abraham Lincoln’s connections with Christian County.

Assumption Community Pride Association is holding their second town hall meeting February 18th, in regards to what should be done with the Bond Elementary property after the school closes down. President of ACPA, Derek Page, says their first meeting on 4th showed them what they community would like to see be done with the building. There next meeting on the 18th, they’ll discuss how they can take action.

The Assumption community has been very engaged in the recent building discussions. However, Page does says that tough decisions will have to be made.

Page is also an Alderman on the City Council, and he says he would like to see the City take over the property.

The Town Hall meeting will be at 6:30 Monday evening at Bond Elementary.

For those getting excited for warmer weather the Christian County YMCA is right there with ya.

YMCA Director Chris Weittenhiller is happy to announce that the Spring Soccer League is right around the corner and shares what you need to know.

There is still plenty of time to register your young one for soccer but Weittenhiller says the earlier the better.

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

The U of I Extension Office in Taylorville loves getting into the classroom to help teach the kids about the environment.

Environmental and Energy Stewardship Educator Ashley Belle says she is looking forward to teaching kids about the water cycle.

Belle says she really enjoys getting into the classroom and giving the students the hands on experience and seeing the light bulb moment.

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

After being postponed due to weather, the TMH Auziliary is hosting their Men Who Cook event on Saturday March 2nd. Auxiliary Liaison, Debbie Johnson, says they lost a few chefs for the event after the postponing, but they added more.

Johnson says that the event is a blast, and there is always so much food, it’s hard to eat it all.

The Auxiliary will be auctioning off a YETI Cooler, Weber Smokey Mountain Charcoal Smoker, and many other items. Tickets for the event at $35, and you can stop by the TMH Gift Shop to purchase them.

Last week the Illinois State Senate Signed a bill into law that will raise the minimum wage to $15 dollars an hour, it is currently being reviewed by the House of Representatives.

State Senator Andy Manar represents the 48th District of Illinois, he says this debate over minimum wage is nothing new it has been going on for years.

Manar explains why he believes the minimum wage will be raised stating that voters have wanted this for a while now.

Manar believes this bill will be signed officially into law but explains what the hold up could be if there is one.

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

It is almost time for the third Wednesday of the month which means Taylorville residents are gearing up for another night of Business After Hours.

CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Patty Hornbuckle shares where this event will be located.

The Chamber has been putting on this event for a while now, Hornbuckle wants everyone to be aware of just how special these events are.

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

One of the toughest things to do for someone struggling with mental health is ask for help, the Moultrie County Counseling Center wants residents to know their doors are always open.

Dave Cole is the Executive Director of the Counseling Center. He knows how difficult it can be to stop by and get help, for this reason he tries to be discrete

Cole says the first appointment requires a lot of paper work to be done but for those going through a crisis they can see you the day of.

Cole appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our Sullivan Studios.

Last week, Taylorville Police Chief Brian Hile met with residents of Hickory Estates to discuss common scams. Many scammers target senior citizens, but almost everyone is affected the random number calls dialed every day, which is what Hile discussed. He said that the conversation at Hickory Estates was refreshing because those in attendance were very engaged with what was being said.

Hile says the best advice that he can share regarding the scam callers is to just ignore the number. If they call is important, they will leave a message.

However, Hile says that he is beginning to see an awareness grow of scams, and how to handle them.

Hile also reminds the public of the old adage that if its too good to be true, it isn't.

The Missions for Taylorville assistance deadline is fast approaching, and anyone home owners who have tornado damage are encouraged to apply. Bill Kerns with Davis Memorial Christian Church says they just want to help as many people as they can, not just in Taylorville, but all of Christian County.

Kerns says that even if residents have minor damage, Missions for Taylorville highly encourages them to apply.

Since the tornado, donations continue to come in, and Kerns says he has just been blown away by the support.

Anyone who is interested in applying, they can reach out with questions by calling 824 8181. For those who would like to apply, applications can be picked up at most local churches, or Taylorville City Hall.

The Coles Moultrie Electric Cooperative is responsible for providing power to thousands of residents.

Manager of Marketing Sam Adair says this can be an extremely hazardous job but they like to preach safety as much as possible.

Journeyman Lineman with the Cooperative Bob Schafer says the job can get frustrating in terms obstacles getting in the way.

Adair and Schafer both appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our Sullivan Studios.

The Little Theater on the Square in Sullivan is the place to be this weekend.

Marketing Director of the Little Theater on the Square Brenda Abbott says they are excited to be showing an Oscar nominated period piece.

Also this weekend is the daddy and daughter dance and Abbott is looking forward to a good turn out for the always popular event.

Abbott appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our Sullivan Studios.

Anderson Jewelers is going to remain open after a successor was announced. The current owner, Dave Cowell, will be handing the keys of to Jennifer Prose this month.  Prose currently works for Cowell, and has for the last 3 years, she explains the idea behind taking over the building.

Prose said shes nervous of what the future holds with Anderson Jewelers, but at the same time, excited.

Cowell will continue to own the store from a distance, but Prose will now manage the store. Prose will officially take over on February 15th.

Since the tornado that hit Taylorville on December 1st, Newby Construction has been working hard to repair homes that have been damaged. Owner Kris Newby says that things were hectic the first week, and their main focus was to help as many people as he could.

Newby says that one of the main problems he has seen so far is damaged to roofs. 

Newby has seen damage from winds and storms before, but he says he has never seen anything like this before.

Newby Construction continues their efforts to repair homes that were damaged from the December tornado.

The action never seems to stop at the Christian County YMCA as they are getting ready for their second round of winter programs.

Director of the YMCA Chris Weittenhiller says registration for winter two program sessions is now open.

Weittenhiller says there is more to do than just spend some time in the pool, he shares some of the programs the Y offers to help stay in shape.

Weittenhiller says there are multiple ways to register from stopping by to see them in person to using their new app.

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

There are two great opportunities coming up to hear the Taylorville High School band perform at the school.

Superintendent of Taylorville Schools Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau says he highly encourages coming out to support these students in the band program.

Residents who have been to a Taylorville basketball game have had the opportunity to hear the jazz band perform. Dr. Fuerstenau says the games are always enjoyable but when the band is there it is just that much better.

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

Last night the Taylorville School Board met at their regular time, the agenda included personnel changes as well as an update on the Junior High.

The big news of the evening was when Dr. Fuerstenau announced that Taylorville, Nokomis, and Pana will be withdrawing from the Mid-State Special Education Cooperative. He explains what this means for those schools going forward.

A presentation took place to wrap things up at the end of the meeting as Taylorville Principal Matt Hutchison and Teacher Matt Blomquist shared with the school board an update on Building Trades coming back.

The Taylorville School Board meets on the second and fourth Monday’s of the month at 7:00.

After being voted in by the Fourth Judicial Circuit Judges, Jeffrey DeLong will be serving as an Associate Judge of the Fourth Judicial Circuit. It was put into effect last Friday, February 8th. DeLong will be filling the vacancy of Amanda Ade-Harlow who was elected as Resident Circuit Jedge of Shelby County in December. 

The Fourth Judicial Circuit consists of nine counties. That includes Christian, Clay, Clinton, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Marion, Montgomery, and Shelby.

The Christian County LEAD Program recently were able to tour through Taylorville Memorial Hospital, and Taylorville High School. Linda Smith from the program says they learned a lot about the new additions to be made at TMH during their visit.

During the group’s visit to Taylorville High School, they got an indepth look at the STEM labs. Smith says it was an amazing experience to see all the technology that was available.

Smith also compliments the opportunities that the STEM lab provides students compared to other schools.

In addition to the STEM lab, the group also visited agricultural classrooms, the greenhouse, and multiple other classrooms at THS. The LEAD Program tours health and education facilities in both Taylorville and Pana.

The Taylorville Kiwanis has now found a way to fund raise through an agreement with the Taylorville Kroger. The Kroger rewards card now serves as a way residents can support the Kiwanis Club. Alderman Martin Vota on Kroger’s community rewards program.

Vota says that Kroger has money allocated for programs such as this. 

If you are already a Kroger card carrier, Vota says you can sign up to have your card involved with Taylorville Kiwanis.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.

Taylorville is still handling clean up from the December 1st tornado and groups are pooling their time to help with the trees lost.

Christian County Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi says they recently met with the other groups at Davis Memorial Church to see what can be done. 

Jan McClure is also a Master Gardener, she says that residents should be on on the look out for some strike force teams that will be out assessing the damages.

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

Recently the Illinois Senate passed a bill that will raise minimum wage to $15 an hour, it will now go to the Illinois House of Representatives for review.

Avery Bourne represents the 95th District of Illinois in the House. She says she is not completely sold on this idea quite yet.

Bourne she might be able to get on board with it if this minimum wage law was neutralized to where you live, if it is not it could have a huge impact on local businesses.

Bourne says this could take some time for the House to work through, they are in session until July and want to make sure they are thorough.

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

February is Heart Health Month and Taylorville Memorial Hospital has an event coming up on Valentines day to help educate the public on their health.

President and CEO of TMH Kim Bourne says the class is free and open to the public and will not only cover heart health but also diabetes.

The Taylorville Junior High School Volleyball team will be hosting a fundraiser also on Thursday, proceeds will go to the CUPS fund for uninsured and under insured women who need mammography exams.

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

On Saturday night residents of Christian County sat down at the American Legion in Stonington for the 10th annual Quarterback Club Fundraiser.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry emceed the event he says the event has grown so big in its decade of existence that they decided to expand from just donating to the JFL.

Dinner was served by the Taylorville FFA to the 250 supporters that came out which was followed by the live auction. Barry says there are plenty of people to thank.

The big winner for the night was Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettlekamp as he won the grand prize at the end of the night, a check for 5,000 dollars.

In total over $9,000 were raised Saturday night at the 10th annual Quarterback Club Fundraiser.

Last week, Christian County CEO students visited the Regional Radio News Studios to talk about their upcoming Winter Banquet. Along with organizing the winter banquet, students have learned a lot over the past year. When looking back at the year CEO Student Jolene Clayton said there’s now way she would have been able to do a radio interview before now.

Clayton says that the hands on experience from their instructor Dick Adams has made a huge difference.

The Christian County CEO students are hosting their Winter Banquet is Saturday February 23rd.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and Doctor Amanda Lewis from Central Illinois Smiles would like to make sure that parents are getting their kids to the dentist. Lewis says that despite what some may think, it is vital that children get into the dentist at a young age.

Outside of bringing your child into the dentist, Lewis says brushing twice a day is what’s recommended.

Lewis reminds that keeping your teeth clean is always important, especially among kids.

Changes are coming for the Shelbyville School District. In December Superintendent Denise Bence informed the School Board that she intends on retiring at the end of the year.

Bence has been in the Shelbyville School District since 1997 starting out as the elementary school Guidance counselor and has served as Superintendent for the past 11 years.

Bence’s replacement has already been named, Shelbyville High School Principal will take over as Superintendent at the end of the school year. He plans on hitting the ground running and says his first order of business will be finding his replacement as Principal of Shelbyville High School.

Bence and Schuricht appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from the downtown Shelbyville studios.

With the winter break for schools officially behind us and the students getting back into the swing of things Ag in the Classroom once again be making its rounds as well.

Ag in the Classroom Coordinator Kathleen Agney says she has been involved with the program for three years and is excited for all the growth they have seen

Agney is excited to get back in the classroom after taking some time off in December she plans on implementing Illinois inventors into her lessons.

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

The hardest step to any dieting is committing to that first step to make the necessary lifestyle changes.

Jill Williams with the St. Louis Dairy Council says a common mistake is trying to change everything at once and making the changes too drastic.

Williams says make small goals and do your best to reach those goals and keep doing down the list till you hit the ultimate goal you have.

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

The Christian County CEO program is getting ready to host their annual CEO Winter Banquet. Perhaps the most unique aspect of the banquet is that it is organized by the students themselves as a class progject. CEO student Tyler Davis says of all the projects they do throughout the year, this is by far their biggest.

Another CEO student Will Kettelkamp is looking forward to the event. Both he, and Davis, are looking forward to their hard work paying off.

The banquet is February 23rd from 5:30 to 7:30 in the evening at the Pillars Event Center. 

National Margarita day is coming this February, and Los Rancheros in Taylorville is planning to celebrate. Manager Nestor Lopez says they have been hosting the event every year he’s been with the restaurant, and he says everyone treats it like a holiday.

Lopez says that they plan to have a live music performance.

As far as the expected turnout, Lopez hopes to see more than 100 people come out to celebrate.

National Margarita day is Friday February 22nd.

February is canned food month, the U of I Extension Office wants to make sure you are getting the most out of your canned foods.

Nutrition and Wellness Educator Lisa Peterson says make sure you check the label on the can to compare sodium.

Peterson says it can be tough to get an accurate reading on the labels as most of the labels go off serving size but have multiple servings per can.

Peterson says it comes down to moderation, you do not want to take sodium completely out of your diet.

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

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is getting ready for their annual banquet in May, and they have some awards to give away. CEO of the Chamber Patty Hornbuckle says they’re now taking nominations for citizen of the year.

Another award to be given out at the banquet is the volunteer of the year, along with a few more.

There is a long history of the banquet, and annual awards. Hornbuckle has a list that goes back into the 70’s.

To submit nominations, Hornbuckle says to contact the Chamber to fill out forms. The banquet is May 3rd, and the theme for this year is The Wizard of Oz.

It may still feel like winter outside, but the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is looking ahead towards spring. Their annual event, Spring Swing, is getting ready to tee off, and Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle gives the details.

As well as being a good time for those who participate, the local businesses benefit too.

If players sign up before February 15th, they’ll get their t-shirts the day of the event. Spring Swing is scheduled for March 2nd.

The Christian County CEO Program wants to see you Saturday, February 23rd at their CEO Winter Banquet.

Brandon Odam, Charles Spinner, Madison Good, and Daniel Gardener were guests on the Newstalk WTIM morning show to discuss the upcoming event. Gardener says this is starting to become a tradition for the CEO program.

Good says they knew last years CEO Winter Banquet set the bar very high. As a group they wanted to come up with something unique while not completely starting over.

Spinner shares the brainstorming process and how they decided to do this CEO Winter Banquet.

Ticket for entry as well as raffle tickets are available for sale, Odam shares how you can get your tickets today.

Good says the money raised from this event will be put to good use.

The Christian Country CEO Winter Banquet will be Saturday, February 23rd at the Pillars Event Center in Taylorville. Doors will open at 5pm.

A week into February means over a month into the News Years resolution of eating healthier and losing some weight.

Jill Williams with the St. Louis Dairy Council is constantly asked as a dietitian what diet she recommends. She knows that different diets work for different people but she tends to recommend the Mediterranean diet.

Williams has the do’s and dont’s for the Mediterranean diet and shares how easy it can be to shop for.

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

Central Illinois Foodbank is working to serve the community as best they can in an effort to wipe out hunger.

Public Relations Manager Ashley Earnest says once the weather turns a little nicer they will once again start doing their healthy food distributions.

If you are hoping to set up a healthy food distribution in your town Earnest shares how you can do so.

Earnest 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 sees what he calls a Greek tragedy looming which stems from the credit crisis in the US bond market that has gone on for 10 years.

Henry says you don’t have to search too deeply to find companies deep in debt starting with the S&P 500.

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

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is taking precautions to avoid the spread of influenza by placing temporary visiting restrictions. Despite flu activity being low in Christian County, many children are coming down with the illness according to Peggy Chapman a registered nurse at TMH.

Chapman says that when they look at past flu activity, its lower this season compared to last year despite the children.

The safest way to avoid the flu is to wash your hands, but they’re are still other precautions that can be taken.

For the safety of patients and their families, Memorial Health System is recommending that inpatient hospital visits be limited to two vistors per patient, and all must be 18 years or older.

Stonington is going to host a community blood drive February 13th, and donor relations consultant Sara Palacio encourages people to come out because of the recent winter weather.

Palacio reminds that blood donation is a safe, and easy process, and it could help save someone's life. 

The drive is from 1 to 5 in the afternoon at Monsanto.

Monday night, the Sullivan Police Department received a 911 call in regards to a home invasion with reports of shots fired. One individual was shot, and has been transported to Decatur Memorial Hospital. 32 year old Alvan Booths of Mattoon is considered a suspect by the Sullivan Police, and was arrested Tuesday morning. 

The Sullivan Police Department has requested the Illinois State Police to investigate the Home Invasion and Shooting.

Harrison Silcox, a news and sports reporter for the Miller Media Group in Taylorville, was named this week as the company's "Employee of the Quarter" for the fourth quarter of 2018.

Silcox was selected by management and staff as the "Employee of the Quarter", and joined the company in June of last year.  In addition to being the station clusters' news reporter, he also does play-by-play and color for Taylorville sports.

Silcox received a 100-dollar bonus from the company presented by general manager Kami Payne, and his name will be put into a drawing for a Florida trip which includes airfare and car rental.

Edinburg High School will be hosting a community blood drive this February 19th. Donor Relations Consultant, Libby Bair, encourages everyone to come out and donate if they can. Donors will not only help out the high school, but get a free shirt as well.

After the cold temperatures last week, blood supply across the state is low making donations all the more important.

The blood drive will be at the high school from 12:30 to 5:30 in the afternoon.

Country Financial and the Illlinois Farm Bureau are teaming up to host a series of winter crop meetings for local farmers, and they are heading to Christian County this February. Doug Yoder, crop agency manager for Country Financial, on how local farmers can benefit from the meeting.

Also to be discussed are the changes in the new Farm Bill.

Yoder believes that it is vital for local farmers to attend the meeting given how much they can learn.

The meeting will be in the U of I Extension Office in Taylorville on February 20th at 6 in the evening. It is free, and open to the public.

Last night President Trump gave the State of the Union Address, which was delayed due to the first government shutdown. Americans are hopeful that is the only shutdown although it appears as we might be right back there in less than 2 weeks.

Congressman Rodney Davis represents the 13th Congressional District of Illinois. He says that not all the blame should be on President Trump’s shoulders, there isn’t much he can do if the Democrats refuse to meet.

Still hopeful that the government shutdown can be avoided Davis says in the grand scheme of things the price tag isn’t as high as some might think.

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

Central Illinois Foodbank recently had two inspections, one from the Safety Audit and the other from the Charity Navigator, they passed both with flying colors.

Public Relations Manager Ashley Earnest says Charity Navigator is a nationwide agency that evaluates charities to make sure everything is up to par.

Central Illinois Foodbank received the highest possible rating of 4 stars, their tenth year in a row doing so. Charity Navigator says only 1% of all the charities they inspect has accomplished this.

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

February is Heart Health Month and the St. Louis Dairy Council has some advice to make your heart as healthy as can be.

Jill Williams with the Dairy Council says the first step is adjusting the diet to make sure you are eating a healthy balance of fruits and vegetables.

Eating right may be the first step in keeping your heart healthy, but according to Williams it is also critical to get out and work out to strengthen the heart as well.

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

It may have been two months ago, but tornado recovery efforts continue. In this case, efforts to recover trees lost from the storm have just begun. Volunteers from the Taylorville Tree Board, Trees Forever and the University of Illinois Master Gardeners recently met to adress what should be done. Volunteer Barb Grabner-Kerns, says its just a group of residents who are concerned about the local tree loss.

Grabner-Kerns also mentions their program Recover, Replant, Restore! 

The volunteers who met in regards to Taylorville’s trees will continue to focus their efforts on restoration.

Governor JB Pritzker last week signed an executive order that brought Illinois on board with the Paris Climate Accord.

This concerns State Representative Avery Bourne, she says she is worried that a war on coal is on the horizon.

Bourne says at the moment things are quite after joining the Paris Climate Accord, but keep an eye out for what might come next.

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

Tax season is upon us and the paperwork will be due before we know it, for those needing assistance the Christian County Senior Citizens Center is here to help.

Gerry Mahr with the Senior Citizens Center says they started booking appointments in January and will be available every Tuesday and Thursday till taxes are due.

Mahr wants to encourage everyone to stop by as it is free. Mahr also wants to take a look and see how much of a refund he can get you from your pension.

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

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday night for their first, of two, monthly meetings. To begin the meeting, the youth of the month was honored. This month it went toward the Taylorville High School FFA who were crowned national champions in January. After that, two ordinances, and 3 motions were carried by the council. The last motion included a motion to bid the position of Working Foreman in the Sewer Department. Mayor Bruce Barry explains the need for the new position.

 Following the motions were the City Attorney, and Mayoral updates. After that were the committee reports were the street and sewer committee passed 3 motions. Just before the meeting concluded Alderman Bruce Jones announced that the next council meeting on February 19th would be his last as he retires. Barry shared some kind words for Jones despite only being Mayor for just over a year.

The Taylorville City Council meets on the first and third Monday of every month. However, their next meeting will be Tuesday, February 19th because of Presidents day.

The U of I Extension Office will soon be heading out to local area schools to give the students a hands on lesson.

4H and Ag Literacy Program Coordinator with the Extension Office Rebecca Livingston is plenty excited to get into the classrooms and teach the youth about different types of soil.

Livingston often sticks to elementary schools for these lessons, but the older the age group the more advanced the lessons become.

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

Congressman Rodney Davis will be headed to the State of the Union Address on February 5th, but he’ll be bringing a guest from Taylorville with him. Taylorville Fire Chief Mike Crews was invited by Davis to attend the Address as a thank you to his efforts in managing Taylorville after a catastrophic tornado wiped out more than 30 homes, and damaged hundreds of structures. 

Davis applauds not only Crews, but also other city officials for the tough decisions they had to make.

Along with being the Fire Chief, Mike Crews is also the Christian County Emergency Management Director.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce has May 3rd circled on their calendar as that is the day of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet.

CEO of the Chamber Patty Hornbuckle says it is always on the first Friday in May, and this year they are changing up from their regular derby theme.

Hornbuckle says this banquet is more than just sitting down to enjoy a nice meal, the Chamber will be giving out awards as well.

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

Governor JB Pritzker has had a couple of weeks to settle into his role as the newest Governor of Illinois, next up for Pritzker is coming up with a balanced budget.

State Representative Avery Bourne says she may not agree with everything Pritzker ran his campaign on, but she is hopeful that he will be willing to work across the isle to do what is best for the state.

Bourne says the budget comes with a variety of red flags and will be a tall task for Pritzker from the get go.

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

They Taylorville Fire Department responded to call at Manners Park on Friday of a dog that fell through the ice in the Park’s pond. Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall on how the team was able to secure the dog.

Goodall reports a scrape on the dog’s nose, and that the dog had no tags so animal control was contacted afterwards.

No firefighters were injured during the rescue as well.

Captain Matt Adermann Helps Pull Dog Out From Water

The Central Illinois Foodbank recently received their highest score on an AID Audit which measures the standards of Food Distribution Centers. Out of 1,000 possible points in the audit, Central Illinois Foodbank scored a 950 which is the highest score they’ve received in their previous two audits. Public Relations Manager Ashely Earnest breaks down what the score means.

Earnest says it is their main responsibility to keep the food that they store, and distribute, is clean as well as safe.

Earnest, and the food bank understand that with the amount of people they reach, cleanliness is always necesarry.

Central Illinois Foodbank distributes 9 million pounds of food annually.

It has been the law for years now, yet many Illinois residents still might not be aware they are breaking it.

Trooper Sean Ramsey with the Illinois State Police says when you see someone on the side of the road whether it is emergency vehicle or not get into the other lane.

Ramsey says it is understandable if you cannot move over a lane, if that is the case you are required to at least slow down when passing the vehicle.

Ramsey appeared as a guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.