Local News

ISP Investigating Serious Car Crash In Montgomery County

The Illinois State Police are investigating a crash in Montgomery County that occurred on Friday afternoon. A Dodge truck being driven by 46 year old Stephen Condon of Pawnee was westbound on Virden Avenue approaching E 2nd Road. A 2015 Chevrolet car driven by 22 year old Nicholas Cox of Girard along with passenger, 23 year old Tanner Stelle was northbound on E 2nd Road approaching Virden Avenue. Condon’s vehicle struck the driver’s side of Cox’s vehicle in the intersection. Cox was taken by Arch Air Medical Service to Memorial Hospital in Springfield with serious injuries.  The crash remains under investigation.

 

A two vehicle accident sends one to the hospital outside Virden.  This Google Map image shows the location of the crash.

Lake Shelbyville Youth Deer Hunt Applications Available

The US Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Shelbyville will hold a youth firearm deer hunt on October 12th and 13th 2019. Youth that apply must be less than 18 years of age and be accompanied by an adult.  Applications must be received by 4 PM on September 6th. Park Ranger Taylor Finks says that they can only take ten participants out of the many that apply.

 

Finks says that food is provided and applicants will be notified by phone shortly after the draw to let them know if they’ve been selected. The only cost is for the permit itself.

 

 

For more information contact Taylor Finks at 217-774-3951, extension 7028 or visit the lake Shelbyville website or Facebook page.

Lil' Chili Bean Contest Still Looking For Contestents

There is still time for you to enter your child in the Lil’ Chili Bean Contest for children ages 0-2. The Lil’ Chili Bean Contest takes place on Saturday October 5th and Sunday October 6th. Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle says the event is not a stage event but a people’s choice event.

 

 

Hornbuckle says there are some great prizes for the winners.

 

 

For more information on the Lil’ Chili Bean Contest, visit the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page.

Labor Day Traffic Means Slow Down And Pay Attention

Labor Day is Monday, which means plenty of people traveling and extra people on the roads. Safety education officer Sean Ramsey says you should pay extra attention this weekend while driving. 

 

Ramsey also says because it’s getting closer to fall, there will be farm equipment sharing the roads with you as well.

 

Ramsey says the bottom line is slow down, and do not text and drive.

First Sighting of Illinois Sweet Corn at Farmers Market

The Farmers Market can be found Saturdays on Taylorville Square starting at 9 with great products to fit any need.

 

Ed Downs is the Co-President of the Farmers Market. Last week was the first week without the coveted Calhoun County Peaches. While the peaches may be done for the season Downs says there is still an excellent opportunity to get your first pick at Illinois Sweet Corn.

 

 

With the corn and green beans coming to the market there will still be plenty of other great products available, including your chance to get some new flowers for your garden.

 

 

Downs encourages anyone who is interested to stop by and see them on the Taylorville Square Saturday’s from 9 to noon.

Taylorville Police Department Receives Donation Of Bicycle Helmets

The Taylorville Police Department will be helping kids this summer with bicycle helmets. Thanks to Alderman Kathy Driskell and Bud Altman who works with Lincoln Prairie Trails, the TPD received a donation of over 30 bicycle helmets.  Alderman Kathy Driskell says she saw a need for the community.

 

 

Driskell says that everyone should wear a helmet. She says that as an avid bicyclist, she sees too many people that get hurt on bikes and that helmets save lives.

 

For more information on the helmets contact the Taylorville Police Department.
 

Pana Labor Day Horse Parade On Monday

The Pana Labor Day Parade is not complete without the horse show before it. Held just prior to the parade at around 9:30, the Pana Labor Day Parade Horse Show is held at the Wallace Brothers Stables which is the old stockyards on Cold Springs Road just one block west of US 51 South. Coordinator Scott Loos says that this has become a staple of the Pana TriCounty Fair.

 

Loos says the horse show is broken into categories for the different riders.

 

 

There is no preregistration for the event. Anyone with a horse or pony is urged to participate. For more information call 565-2332.

United Prairie LLC To Purchase Miller Ag Service

A local agronomic retailer will become a little bigger on September 1st. United Prairie LLC out of Tolono, Illinois announced plans to purchase Miller Ag Service, based out of Cowden, Illinois. Miller Ag Service will continue to operate as Miller Ag. United Prairie CEO Tim Hughes says that the companies had worked together in the past and that made this move easier.

 

 

Hughes says that there is a lot of promise for the future of United Prairie and that he hopes people remain comfortable with the changes coming.

 

 

At the end of the day with all of the consolidations going on, Hughes is just happy that they can continue focusing on the communities that they serve.

 

 

For more information on United Prairie, visit their website at unitedprairiellc.com. 

TMH Foundation Announces Lose To Win Challenge Top Winner

Top Winners: Regina Gaynor (5), Amy Cluck (4), Lisa Lash (1), Maureen Arcis (3) and Elisabeth Bandy (7); Not pictured – Kevin Hayes (2), Caleb Dowdy (6), Jayne Bethard (8), David Rosenthal (9) and Dwighla Yard (10)

 

 

The Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation completed it’s 34th session of the Lose to Win Challenge with Lisa Lash of Pana winning by losing 21% of her body weight. Dietician Janelle Cornell says that this is the eighth year of the program and that it is just as popular as ever. This year’s session went well, although Cornell says that summer sessions tend to be a little tougher to fill because in winter people show up for their resolutions. 


 

Cornell says that losing weight is a commitment and that this is something that helps motivate those to lose weight. 

 

Registration for the next Lose To Win Challenge will take place on September 4th for the informational meeting at 6PM in Room 414 at TMH.

 

Other top finishers who were awarded cash prizes included Kevin Hayes of Taylorville, Maureen Arcis of Taylorville, Amy Cluck of Morrisonville, Regina Gaynor of Taylorville. Rounding out the top 10 was Caleb Dowdy of Stonington, Elisabeth Bandy of Bulpitt, Jayne Bethard of Morrisonville, David Rosenthal of Taylorville and Dwighla Yard of Taylorville.

Bohannon Talks G7 Summit

Recently President Donald Trump was in France for the G7 Summit on behalf of the American people.

 

Jim Bohannon, host of the Jim Bohannon show airing weeknights on Newstalk WTIM at 9, applauds the work Trump has done as he sees the efforts of the President paying off in gaining a trade partner with Japan.

 

 

Bohannon looks at the new North American Free Trade Agreement and says with things not changing on that front and China trying to bully the US into a corner Trump needed to pull the trigger with Japan

 

 

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

Lake Land College Nursing Program Top 3 In State

Lake Land College has been named the third-best nursing school in the State of Illinois. Nursing Explorer, which is an online nursing school search site, says that Lake Land’s Associate Degree Nurse and Practical Nursing programs are the third-best in the state. There were 63 programs compared in Illinois. 

 

Nursing Explorer uses a board exam passage rates and cost of tuition and fees to calculate ratings.  Lake Land has a passage rating of 88.1 and 92.8 for its two nursing programs. Students complete a difficult program of study providing hands-on learning. 

 

Cassi Killam who graduated this year says the nursing program is great. “Lake Land’s Nursing program isn’t just the beginning of another school program, it’s the beginning of a new life, friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime.  The friends you meet will stay by your side throughout life. They’re the ones that really understand how challenging school and your new career are.  The instructors will treat you like their own kids and help you through every obstacle you face. Lake Land College is truly one of a kind.”

 

For more information on Lake Land College’s Nursing program visit www.lakelandcollege.edu. For more information on Nursing Explorer visit www.nursingexplorer.com/schools/llc. 

Local Cleaning Company in Taylorville Gets New Hours

Sunkist Cleaners in Taylorville is changing its hours on September 1st. The cleaning service owned by Bryan Payne is opening up earlier but closing on weekends.  Payne says this is a move that benefits everyone.

 

 

Sunkist does everything and cleans everything.  Payne says, you bring it, we clean it.

 

 

Payne also says that they have a new pick up/drop off location at Pana Savealot.

 

 

For more information on Sunkist Cleaners visit their Facebook page, click on their link at TaylorvilleDailyNews.com or give Bryan a call at 217-824-8610.  Sunkist Cleaners is located at 413 N. Cheney Street in Taylorville.

Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest Cook Off Flyer Released

This year’s Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest Cook-Off Flyer has been released.

 

The flyer outlines the 2 days of International Chilli Society sanctioned judging of homestyle, veggie, verde, and red chilli competition.  Saturday, October 5th will feature the “Regional Chillinois Cook-Off”, and Sunday, October 6th will be the “Central States Regional Chilli Cook-Off.”  

 

There’s prize money and plaques being offered in several different categories, and all first place winners advance to the 2020 World Championship.

 

All registrations must be done on-line at chillicookoff-dot-com.

 

The Cook-Off Flyer has additional rules and details, and can be accessed at the event’s web site, chillifest-dot-info, that’s chillifest with 2-L’s.

First E-Cigarette Death Reported

Last week a patient in Illinois was the first to pass away from a mysterious lung illness linked to vaping.

 

President and CEO of Taylorville Memorial Hospital Kim Bourne speaks on the matter saying that a lot of people may think that e-cigarettes are a healthy alternative to cigarettes, however this is not the case.

 

 

For those who are looking to kick the habit of smoking for good TMH is here to help with their free Smoking Cessation Program.

 

 

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

Christian County Second Installment Of Property Taxes Due September 10th

The second installment of Christian County property taxes is coming soon. Betty Asmussen, Treasurer of Christian County wants to remind everyone to turn your payments in or have them postmarked by September 10th. If you don’t pay them, you could face stiff penalties.

 

 

Asmussen also says that if you do plan on mailing in your taxes, that they do are postmarked before the tenth.

 

For more information contact the Christian County Treasurer’s office at 217-824-4889.

Edinburg Labor Day Picnic Kick Off

This Friday kicks off the Edinburg Labor Day Picnic and through Monday masses will be gathering for a great time.

 

Morgan Stephens and Katie White with the picnic are excited for the four day stretch to kick off Friday with the pageant which has 24 contestants.

 

 

The annual parade on Monday will once again be very popular. Stephens has been going for as long as she can remember and White is excited to see all the floats.

 

 

Stephens and White each appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Julie Solliday Named Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry "Big Smile for the Community" For August

This month’s NEWSTALK WTIM Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry “Big Smile for the Community” honoree is Christian County Youth Vollebyall founder Julie Solliday.  Solliday says she’s been interested in volleyball since she was a little kid.

 

 

Solliday wants to thank the community for their support of the volleyball program.

 

Solliday’s daughter Ella Appel encourages everyone to join the volleyball program

 

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

Volunteers Needed for Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest Kidzone

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest is in need of volunteers for this year’s Kidzone at this year’s event October 5th and 6th on the Taylorville square.

 

Kidzone chair Laura Hadley says local businesses, churches and non-profit organizations are urged to get a group together to facilitate such kids’ events as pumpkin painting.  Hadley adds that groups can wear your business or non-profit shirt as a way to promote, as well as bring signs and giveaways.

 

Hadley says a connection with the Chamber Chillifest Kidzone provides and creates new relationships, contacts and potential clients.

 

To volunteer your business or organization to work in the Chamber Chillifest Kidzone, contact Hadley at 824-2555.

Taylorville Kiwanis Hear from CMH Coordinator at HSHS St. John's Children's Hospital at Weekly Meeting

 

CAPTION TO PIX: Dave Newton (center), coordinator for the Children’s Miracle Network at HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital in Springfield, was Tuesday’s guest speaker at the weekly meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.  Kiwanis president Michael Evanchak (left) presided at the meeting; Kiwanis member and August program chair Martin Vota is at the right.

 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the coordinator for the Children’s Miracle Network at HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital in Springfield, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

 

Dave Newton told Kiwanis Club members how the donor funds raised by the Children’s Miracle Network, get spent at HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital.  Newton said the donations go for a variety of needs for pediatric patients such as kangaroo chairs for the neuro-intensive care unit, dolls that explain surgery, mats, balls, therapists, and the Healing Garden at the hospital.

 

Newton added that all the money raised thru area fundraisers during the year stays local, and that HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital serves over 50-thousand children a year.

 

Kiwanis members are reminded that starting October First, weekly meetings will be held at a new location, the Taylorville Moose Lodge, 720 McAdam Drive in Taylorville.

 

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.

YMCA To Offer Gym & Swim Program For Home Schooled Children

The Christian County YMCA is offering a special course for those kids in Kindergarten through 12th grade that are homeschooled. Thursdays beginning October 3rd, the Christian County YMCA will be offering gym and swim programs for members and non-members. Children will be grouped according to age and there will be a land and water component. The program is 8 weeks long. Andrea Bach, Associate Executive Director, says that she didn’t realize how successful this program was going to be.

 

The program has changed a little, as Bach says she has learned some things that she can do better this course as opposed to last spring. They’ve also raised the capacity to lessen the waiting lists. Bach says that the interaction is what makes the course fun.

 

 

Bach says that registration is half full at this point. Registration is open until September 25th for the fall course.  For more information email Andrea Bach at abach@ccymca.org or visit the YMCA.

Taylorville Park District Meets; Pool Season and Summer Events Wrapping Up

The Taylorville Parks District met on Monday evening.  An approval went through for levying necessary taxes for the fiscal year of March of 2019 through February of 2020. Vice President Tanya Reno says the clean up from the December 1st tornado is almost complete. 

 

 

Park Recreation Director Bailey Hancock says that pool season is almost complete.

 

Hancock says there are some exciting events coming up.

 

 

The next Parks District meeting will take place September 23rd.

Three Taylorville Residents Arrested On Multiple Charges

Three Taylorville residents were arrested on Sunday after a search warrant revealed drugs and weapons. 41 year old Amanda Mollet was arrested on Sunday for possession of methamphetamine, with intent to deliver, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of ammunition by a felon. Also in the arrest, 21 year old Tyler R. Martin of Taylorville was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of meth with intent to deliver, and possession of a firearm without a firearm operator identification. Finally, 22 year old Patrick M. Carr was arrested for possession of methamphetamine. Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says that this has been an ongoing investigation after complaints from citizens.

 

 

Chief Wheeler can’t say enough good things about the Taylorville Community Action Team as well. 

 

 

Chief Wheeler says that the department is working harder than ever to continue to make Taylorville a safe place to live.

Macon County Conservation District To Host Home School Event

The Macon County Conservation District will be hosting an event for home-schooled students on Wednesday, September 11th at Rock Springs Nature Center.  Alysia Callison, the Senior Naturalist for the Macon County Conservation District says that they will be looking at skeletons and vertebrates. The program also includes a nature hike.

 

 

Callison says that this is a good way for home school students to hang out with other homeschooled students.


 

For more information on this program check out the Macon County website at  www.maconcountyconservation.org or call 217-423-7708.

Minimum Illinois Teacher Salaries To Be Raised To $40,000

In an effort to bring more teachers into the state of Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker signed legislation last week to raise teacher minimum salaries to $40,000. Superintendent of Taylorville School District Chris Dougherty is happy for this move and feels our teachers need to be paid like professionals.

 

 

Dr. Dougherty says Taylorville School District is already ahead of the game and has raised salaries already.

 

Dr. Dougherty also says that State and Federal dollars help some of those communities that won’t be able to come up with the funds to pay teachers if the area has to get caught up to that minimum salary.

 

 

The current track is to have teachers make at least $40,000 a year by the first day of school in 2023.

Christian County Hazards Mitigation Committee To Meet September 10th

The Christian County Hazards Mitigation Planning Committee will meet on September 10th at the firehouse to talk about damages from storms and how Christian County can reduce the problems during the aftermath of these storms. Christian County Emergency Management Agency Director Mike Crews says they have a lot of work to do.

 

 

This meeting is open for everyone in the community but especially from the areas of Assumption, Bulpitt, Edinburg, Jeisyville, Kincaid, Morrisonville, Mount Auburn, Owaneco, Palmer, Pana, Stonington, Taylorville, and Tovey.

 

This committee will meet over the next several months to update the Mitigation plan which is reducing damages caused by natural and man-made hazards. The next meeting takes place Tuesday, September 10th at the Taylorville Fire Department at 202 North Main Street in Taylorville beginning at 2 PM. For more information contact Chief Crews 217-820-0912.

Long-Time Taylorville Community Leader Passes

A long-time Taylorville community leader has died.

95-year-old George Alfred Westrick, 95, of Taylorville, died on Friday at his residence.

He joined the Taylorville-based Sangamon Company, which was founded by his father, in 1946.  Westrick served as CEO of Sangamon from 1961 until his retirement in 2003.  
During his tenure, Westrick expanded Sangamon operations to include manufacturing and distribution facilities in Illinois, California, Missouri, and Georgia. 
He remained very active supporting local community services and faith-based charities. 
Services for 95-year-old George Westrick are scheduled for Friday evening at 6 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Taylorville.

Taylorville Tornado Recovery Ahead of Schedule but Still has Long Road Ahead

Taylorville is coming up on 10 months since the December 1st tornado and Missions for Taylorville is still hard at work in the community.

 

Bill Kerns with Missions for Taylorville compares where Taylorville is now to another town hit by a tornado. He says Taylorville seems to be ahead of schedule as of today in terms of tornado recovery.

 

 

Kerns does want to remind Taylorville residents that while Taylorville is ahead of schedule for recovery there is still a ways to go until Taylorville is back to full strength as it was before that tornado.

 

 

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

No More Calhoun County Peaches at the Farmers Market

The Farmers Market can be found Saturdays on Taylorville Square starting at 9 with great products to fit any need.

 

Ed Downs is the Co-President of the Farmers Market. Downs knows that this news will be hard to hear but it is looking like the end for Calhoun County Peaches this year at the Farmers Market.

 

 

While the peaches may be gone Downs still expects to see plenty of smiling faces on the square on Saturdays as there are still plenty of great products at the market.

 

 

Downs encourages anyone who is interested to stop by and see them on the Taylorville Square Saturday’s from 9 to noon.

Annual Children's Health Fair at PCH

Pana Community Hospital has seen plenty of adults come in to try to live a healthier lifestyle and sees how difficult it can be to make that change. They know that it is much easier to implement living a healthy life at a younger age.

 

PCH Marketing Manager Melissa Rybolt wants to see plenty of parents with their kids at the Annual Children's Heath Fair on Saturday, October 26th to learn to live in good health.

 

 

Ryoblt knows that for the kids to get this information PCH is trying to share it comes down to the parents. The kids will eat what is put in front of them so parents should try to eat healthier for their kids.

 

 

Ryoblt shares when and where you need to be for this health fair, there is no registration required simply show up and enjoy learning about living healthy. Rybolt does say there is room for a few more vendors if interested.

 

 

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

Local Campaign Urges Shopping At Farmers Markets In September

A local campaign is encouraging buying from your local Farmers Markets in September. The Buy Fresh Buy Local Central Illinois Campaign is in their 4th annual year, helping farmers as they generally see a slump in sales in September. Communications Director of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance, Molly Gleason says that September is a great time for buying warm season crops.

 

 

In order to encourage shopping locally, Gleason says that there will be a scavenger hunt photo challenge.

 

For those who complete the full scavenger hunt by September 30th, they’ll be entered into a raffle to win $200 to the Buy Fresh Buy Local farm or food venue of their choice. The app is called Scavify and for more information visit: bit.ly/SeptemberEatLocalChallenge. For more information on the Buy Fresh, Buy Local program visit: https://www.buyfreshbuylocalcentralillinois.org/ 

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Not Always the Best Option

The trick to shedding some of that excess weight you may be carrying lies in your diet. It all depends on what is on your plate, the more nutritious it is the better off you will be.

 

Nutrition and Wellness Educator with the Christian County U of I Extension Office Lisa Peterson sees the fad of cooking with extra virgin olive oil as that is the healthiest option, she admits this is true for the most part but if cooking with it you don't want to let it get too hot.

 

 

Peterson sees olive oil heavily in the Mediterranean diet which she recommends but if you hit that smoke point it will become rancid.

 

 

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

CTI Honored On Inc.5000, Fastest Growing Private Companies

Vice President Adam Vocks and President Billy Williams

 

A local company is trending upward as one of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. Computer Techniques or CTI out of Taylorville was ranked 2,132 on Inc. Magazine’s 5,000 list. This is the second time that CTI has made the list making it in 2018 as well. In 2018, the company was ranked 2,242 so it’s moving higher. President Billy Williams says he’s excited to make this list twice, something that only one in four companies has done.

 

 

Williams says the company is growing and that there are big plans for that growth in the future.

 

 

For the full list of companies on the 2019 Inc. 5000, you can go check it out online at inc.com or click here.

Four Power Plants Including Coffeen Power Plant To Close

A local coal power plant will be shutting its doors. Vistra Energy has announced the closure of four Illinois power plants in Coffeen, Canton, Havana, and Hennepin.  The Coffeen Power Plant is located south of the city near the Coffeen Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Montgomery County. State Representative Avery Bourne who represents the 95th District, says that this is a major blow to the community.

 

 

The plant in Coffeen was lauded as one of the cleanest coal companies in the entire nation. Bourne says that this closure is not just because of Vistra, but also has ties with Governor JB Pritzker’s agenda.

 

 

State Senator Andy Manar who represents the 48th District is confused as to why they are shutting down the plant and says it’s completely unnecessary.

 

Bourne wants to encourage Montgomery County residents that she’s continuing to fight for the community and that she will continue to look for answers from the Pritzker administration.

 

 

Over 300 people will lose their jobs at these power plants that are closing including 95 people in Coffeen. The plants are expected to close by the end of this year.

Some Funnel Clouds Reported In Central Illinois

The National Weather Service has reported that funnel clouds have been reported in Champaign, Christian, Macon, and Piatt Counties. Atmospheric conditions exist for possible weak funnel clouds where they will form and then dissipate before touching down. Christian County Emergency Management Agency Director Mike Crews says there was one small funnel reported near Rosamond. 

 

 

 

Stay alert, and be prepared to move to safety if need be.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more updates. 

 

 

New Law To Expand Banking Opportunities In Illinois

For those who shy away from banks, a new law has been passed to help those who need banking opportunities. Governor JB Pritzker says that 1 out of every 5 households doesn’t use a bank. The new law creates what’s called a “Bank On Illinois” program that helps those with new opportunities.

 

 

In an effort to help keep people from paying high fees at check-cashing stores or payday loans, “Bank on Illinois” will have programs with low or no fees, low deposits, and allow alternative forms of identification. Comptroller Susan Mendoza says that the website will help families.

 

 

 

Illinois is the first state in the Union to offer this program.  For more information visit https://illinoiscomptroller.gov/

IHDA Offers Help For Closing Costs For Homes

A new grant program for closing costs for buying a house in Illinois is being offered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority. With some closing costs in excess of $5,000, the IHDA is helping those who can’t pay those costs. IHDA spokesman Andrew Field talks about the program.

 

Field says the IHDA wants to make sure that it’s easier for people to purchase their own home.

 

 

For more information on the porgram visit www.IHDAMortgage.org. 

Nat all Fat is Bad Fat in Diet

When trying to get into better shape and live a healthier lifestyle the first thing someone might think is that they need to cut fat out of their diet.

 

Nutrition and Wellness Educator with the Christian County U of I Extension Office Lisa Peterson says there are certain fats that should be cut but there are some fats that are necessary in your system.

 

 

According to Peterson one of the fats you really want to avoid are the trans fats which can really take a toll should you have a high trans fat diet.

 

 

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

Executive Director Stepping Down From Christian County Senior Citizens Center

Longtime Executive Director Gerry Mahr is resigning from the Christian County Senior Citizens Center. Mahr talked with Regional Radio News about the reasons why he chose now to step down.

 

 

Mahr says he’s looking forward to teaching more and looks back at some of his memories of the Senior Citizens Center.

 

Mahr’s last day will be August 29th. The Senior Citizens Center is actively searching for a new Executive Director for the Center.

 

 

Secretary Of State Encourages Safety Around School Buses

With school back in session, one of the big focuses has been on safety both in and around schools, and with that buses are no different.  Secretary of State, Jesse White says that people just need to be more observant.

 

 

The Secretary of State is promoting a “Toby Tire” program that teaches kids about staying safe while getting on and off a school bus. 

 

During the last school year, 17 kids in the US were killed by drivers failing to stop for a school bus. For more information on the Toby Tire program visit: cyberdriveillinois.com. 

Pana Youth Solar Car Team Honored At County Board Meeting

 

The Pana Youth Solar Team was honored at the Christian County Board Meeting on Tuesday evening. The team placed 1st at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas in July after finishing in 5th last year at the Solar Races.  Second year Solar Car member Katelyn Townsend says that it was surreal being able to race and win at the same place as some Nascar Superstars.

 

 

Lucas Duduit says that it was a lot more intense this year, but he enjoyed going down the road course last year as opposed to making left turns this year. 

 

 

Duduit has one word of advice for those kids who want to follow in his footsteps and be engineers.

 

Duduit has informed Regional Radio News that the Pana Solar Car Team will not be competing next year, as this was the last year for the program.

Tornado Tree Applications Due By September 1st

Any applications for tree replacements in Taylorville need to be turned in by September 1st. Barb Grabner-Kerns of the Taylorville Tree Recovery Team, says that there is still time for you to get a tree.

 

 

Grabner-Kerns says that there are some requirements for you to be able to receive a tree.

 

The Taylorville Tree Recovery Team has been raising money for this and Barb Grabner-Kerns is hoping to get everyone that wants one up to two trees.

 

 

The program is made available by volunteers with the Taylorville Tree Recovery Team, a collaborative effort among the Taylorville Tree Board, Trees Forever, and the University of Illinois Extension and by the generosity of donors to the effort.

John McClure Honored for Long-Time Service to Kiwanis Club, at District Convention

 

Long-time Taylorville Kiwanis Club member John McClure was honored with a special award at the recent Illinois-Eastern Iowa Kiwanis District Convention in Springfield recently.

 

McClure was given the “Amador Award”, named in honor of Doctor Luis V. Amador, the medical director of the Kiwanis Neuroscience Research Foundation since its inception in 1952.

 

McClure was honored for his many years of personal dedication, lifelong support and service to the Taylorville Kiwanis Club and by extension, the children of Taylorville, Christian County, and beyond.

 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club, along with the Raymond-Harvel and North Mac Kiwanis Clubs, nominated McClure for the award.  

 

Taylorville Kiwanis Club members Martin Vota, Blain Cornwell, Dean Ray, Dennis Barnhardt and Dick Wamsley, along with local Kiwanis president Michael Evanchak, were all present when McClure accepted his award.

 

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.

 

Christian County Board Meets; Talks Budgets And Elections

Chad Michel and Chairwoman Becky Edwards.

 

The Christian County Board met Tuesday evening to discuss budgets, Solar Power, and the public defender at their August monthly meeting. It was announced at tonight’s meeting that longtime board member Chad Michel from District 2 was resigning due to personal reasons. He was given an award for his longtime service to the county. During the budget portion of the meeting, it was announced that new election equipment was bought. This equipment is important because it hasn’t been replaced since 2004, and with elections being so scrutinized for security threats, Christian County Clerk, Mike Gianasi says this is an important thing for the County.

 

After reports came out earlier this week that the Macon County Courthouse website had been hacked, Gianasi says, that Christian County doesn’t want to take any chances.

 

 

Other motions that passed included raising Public Defender Mike Drake to a full time position. Chairman of the budget committee Clark Pearce explains why this is important.

 

 

Katrina Dieterich was appointed as the IMRF (Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund) Authorized Agent. IMRF Rates were selected as an actuarial determined rate of 11.93%.  A two year extension was given to the Solar Farm Development. The tentative plan right now is to break ground on a building in 2021 or 2022. The next County Board meeting will be held on September 17th.  

Taylorville Kiwanis Hear from Taylorville School Resource Officer at Weekly Meeting

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the Taylorville School Resource Officer, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

 

Bryan Thomas, a member of the Taylorville Police Department for some 18 years, became the Taylorville School District’s Resource Officer, last school year.  Thomas said that in his going-on 2 years on the job, he’s learned from both students and staff.  

 

Thomas added that with junior and senior high school students in his family, it was even more reason to accept the position.  Thomas has 5 school buildings that he makes appearances in, with an office at Taylorville High School.

 

Thomas told Kiwanis Club members that he’s working to bridge the gap between the police and students, adding that he truly cares about the students and the school district.

 

During a question and answer session, Thomas told Kiwanis members that school staff is pleased to have him on the job.  And, he added that in his going-on 2 years on the job, the biggest problem he’s dealt with is vaping among students, adding that with state law forbidding vaping or cigarette use by minors, writing tickets for the violations among students with a 200-dollar fine, has reduced the use of vaping in the school district considerably.

 

 

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.

Busting Some Myths About Fat

When trying to get into better shape and live a healthier lifestyle the first thing someone might think is that they need to cut fat out of their diet.

 

Nutrition and Wellness Educator with the Christian County U of I Extension Office Lisa Peterson has some myths in need of busting when it comes to fat. First up is the myth that your body does not need any fat. 

 

 

Peterson says the fad of low fat diets are in fact not as good for you as they might seem, too much of anything can be a bad thing but the same goes for too little. 

 

 

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

HSHS Good Shepherd Looking For Entries Into Scarecrow Daze

HSHS Good Shepherd is looking for entries into the 2019 Scarecrow Daze Parade. Kristy Gordon, marketing specialist for HSHS Good Shepherd says they’re looking for all kinds of different entries.

 

Gordon says if you want to enter the parade, all you have to do is let her know.

 

 

Scarecrow Daze will take place on October 12th, 2019 in Shelbyville.

Taylorville Kiwanis Win Several Awards at Kiwanis District Convention

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club won 2 prestigious awards at the recent Illinois-Iowa Kiwanis District Convention held in Springfield.

 

Long-time Taylorville Kiwanis Club treasurer Diane Beatty (left), who recently retired from that position, was honored for her many years of service to the local club.  Kiwanis president Michael Evanchak presented Beatty with her award.

 

 

And, the Club itself was given the “Distinguished Club Award” for achieving several goals as outlined by Kiwanis International, including service to children over the world as well as locally.  Kiwanis president Michael Evanchak is shown holding the award.

 

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

Taylorville City Council Votes To Add Full Time Dispatcher To Police Station, Discuss Sidewalk Project

The Taylorville City Council met Monday evening, and while the focus was heavy on dispensaries in Taylorville, many other issues were discussed and voted on. A vote was passed 7-0 in favor of advertising for another full-time dispatcher in the Taylorville Police Department as right now there are 4 dispatchers and that’s not enough to cover the full week. There was also a long discussion of the First National Bank of Taylorville Sidewalk Project as the discussion of a prevailing wage is adding to the cost of the actual project. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry wants to remind everyone to please be safe especially as School has started once again. He also says that he has applications for the new Street and Sewer Superintendent. 

 

 

A vote was held for the City Council to contribute $7,500 for three years towards the 4th of July Fireworks Display. The motion passed 6-1 with Aldermen Megan Bryant voting no. She explained her reasons for voting against the motion.

 

 

The motion to have the city partner up with Lincoln Land Community College to upgrade and repair cabins was tabled, as the college has lost their instructor and are unsure whether the program will continue. The next Taylorville City Council Meeting will be held on September 2nd.

Severe Weather Expected Tuesday; Severe Weather Sirens Fully Operational

Christian County Emergency Management Agency Director, Mike Crews, spoke at the Taylorville City Council meeting on Monday evening to inform the Aldermen that the severe weather sirens were fully operational again, all of them except the Boyd Dappert location which needs to be moved as it is too close to high voltage.

 

 

Chief Crews says to pay attention to the weather tomorrow as the patterns are very reminiscent of the storm that went through on December 1st.

 

 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for any severe weather coverage updates.

Taylorville City Council Approves Marijuana Tax If City Gets Dispensary

The Taylorville City Council met Monday evening, and the opening discussion, and one that held the floor’s attention at both the beginning of the meeting and the end of the meeting was the discussion of cannabis. The Aldermen voted 6-0 with Alderman Shawn Burtle abstaining, and Aldermen Kathy Driskell absent, in favor of adding a 3% municipal tax to all purchases at any Taylorville dispensaries. The city of Taylorville has not agreed at this point in time to actually add any dispensaries, but if they do that’s when they will add the tax. Alderman Larry Budd said it was important to clarify that as he and City Attorney Rocci Romano discussed the issue.

 


    

There were plenty of people that showed up for the meeting to get their points across that even though they realize that this was not the vote to allow dispensaries in Taylorville, that they were against this regardless. Taylor McManigell attended the meeting and shared his views on cannabis and what he has seen it do to families.

 

 

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry encouraged phone calls on the issue one way or the other, he also wanted to encourage everyone to attend the meetings as well.  The next discussion on cannabis in Taylorville will be at the Ordinance Committee Meeting which will be held on October 17th at 6PM.

Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest Committee Meets, Tweeks Some Events

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest Committee held their monthly meeting Monday night at Angelo's Pizza, putting further planning into this year's event to be held on the Taylorville Square October 5th and 6th.

 

Pageant chair Brittany Moore reported that all 15 Little Miss Chilli Pepper slots are filled, 6 of the 15 Little Mister slots are filled, all 15 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper slots are filled, 5 of the 15 Miss Teen Chilli Pepper slots are filled for girls age 12 to 14, and 12 of the 15 Miss Chilli Pepper slots for girls age 15 to 19 are filled.  This year's application process is strictly on-line by going to chillifest-dot-info and clicking on the Pageant Entry Form.  Deadline for all entries is September 6th at 5pm.

 

It was reported Monday night, that all Chillifest South Stage entertainment slots are filled, and all but one of the North Stage slots are also filled for the weekend.

 

And, this year's Chillifest Kids Zone will feature pumpkin painting all day both days, sponsored by Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

 

Chillifest social media chair Susan Lawrence told Regional Radio News after the meeting, that this year's Chillifest will be tweeking some events thru-out the 2 days.

 

 

And, Lawrence says this year's social media presence at Chillifest will have a fun contest.

 

 

Find complete information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest, by going to chillifest-dot-info, that's chillifest with 2-L's.

Air Frying is Healthier Alternative

It is tough to find some food that doesn't taste good coming out of a deep fryer although it might not be the healthiest option. Luckily there is an option sweeping the nation that will give you the same great taste and crunch while also being better for your system.

 

Nutrition and Wellness Educator with the Christian County U of I Extension Office Lisa Peterson says air frying is becoming quite popular and is a healthier alternative for a meal.

 

 

Peterson is teaching a class on September 10th at Taylorville Memorial Hospital which will show those in attendance how to properly prepare a meal in an air fryer.

 

 

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

Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Staying Busy This Weekend

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for a great weekend with two events that are both great causes.

 

CEO of the Chamber Patty Hornbuckle is hopeful for a great turnout on the blood drive on Friday on the square.

 

 

Saturday we will see an event that is near and dear to Patty’s heart. It is time once again for the Clinton J Hornbuckle Memorial Foundation Beach Volleyball Tournament, which also includes bags and a silent auction. The proceeds from the day should help the foundation meet their goal to be able to pay for youth sports transportation.

 

 

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

New Laws To Help First Responders & State Police

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is working hard to help both the Illinois State Police and First Responders. Governor Pritzker amended a law stating that Illinois State Police needed a bachelor’s, now requiring an Associate Degree or 60 hours of college credit. Acting Director of the Illinois State Police, Brendan Kelly worries that they aren’t getting the right candidates or that they are losing good candidates.

 

The other law establishes a support group for first responders along with a suicide prevention task force to help with mental health issues to give these first responders someone they can talk too.  Governor Pritzker encourages everyone to get help if they need it.

 

The new laws go into effect immediately.

Taylorville City Council to discuss Cannabis Tax Monday Evening; Committee Updates

The Taylorville City Council will meet on Monday evening. The Aldermen will discuss an ordinance imposing a municipal cannabis retailers' occupation tax. Committee reports will be heard including water and environmental, which will include a motion for paying for work for the new water treatment plant. Lake and Airport will propose a motion to recommend partnering with Lincoln Land Community College to have cabins repaired and upgraded. The ordinance committee will propose the official ordinance for the Sunday closing hours of Class B and Class F Liquor license holders. The Finance committee will talk about proposing a motion for decreasing the awards for safety and contribute to the optimist club for the yearly fourth of July fireworks displays. As always Mayor Bruce Barry and the City Attorney will have their updates as well.

Safe Passage Meeting at Kincaid City Hall on the 26th

On August 26th in the Village of Kincaid there will be a meeting at the town hall to decide whether or not Safe Passage will continue to exist in the Village.

 

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp shares what Safe Passage is all about and says it is important to keep this thing going.

 

 

Kettlekamp cannot make it to the meeting on the 26th but encourages all to attend to fight to keep the Safe Passage Program alive.

 

 

Kettelkamp wants to see this program continue to run as it has been extremely successful in getting help to those who seek it.

 

 

The meeting will be held at Kincaid City Hall located at 115 Central Avenue.

 

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

HSHS Good Shepherd Donates To Salvation Army

 

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital has donated toiletries and other essential items to the Shelby County Salvation Army and Joanna’s House in Shelby County. The project was called Mission Possible and it has been a mission for the community. Kristy Gordon, from HSHS Good Shepherd, says that the task at hand is to help those in need.

 

 

Gordon says that HSHS Good Shepherd was also to donate plenty of other items as well for the month in an effort to help those who need a little extra help as well.

 

 

Gordon says the communication between both the Salvation Army and Joanna’s House is a huge asset to the community. For more information on the Shelby County Salvation Army, visit their Facebook page.

Taylorville Kiwanis Hear About Bikers Against Child Abuse, Kiwanis District Awards at Weekly Meeting

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about a biker group working against child abuse, and about awards the local club won at the recent Kiwanis District Convention in Springfield, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

 

3 members of the “Bikers Against Child Abuse” organization, known only as “Nozzle,” “Torch” & “Squirrel”, told Kiwanis members that it was founded over 20 years ago, and is now in 19 countries and growing.  They added it’s made up totally of volunteers with no paid employees, and said that each volunteer must go thru a rigorous one-year training program that includes attending meetings prior to being accepted, and a background check.  

 

The organization works to create a safer environment for children.

 

During Tuesday’s Kiwanis Club meeting, it was announced that the club received several awards during the recent Illinois-Iowa Kiwanis District Convention in Springfield.  Local Kiwanis member and Interclub chair Blain Cornwell was honored for serving the past several years as Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor for the District, and local Kiwanis member Martin Vota was also honored as being named the new Kiwanis District Lieutenant Governor taking Cornwell’s place.

 

Kiwanis president Michael Evanchak also presented Kiwanis treasurer Judy Prasun a check from WRAN groovy 97.3 for almost eleven-hundred dollars, which was half the proceeds from the August 6th WRAN Kiwanis Radiothon.  Kiwanis members secured sponsorships in the day-long broadcast, and delivered sponsor commercials live.  The Miller Media Group and the Taylorville Kiwanis Club have held the annual Radiothon as a fund-raiser for the club, for well over 20 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.

 

 

Several members of the “Bikers Against Child Abuse” organization, were guest speakers at Tuesday’s Taylorville Kiwanis Club meeting.  From the left:  Kiwanis president Michael Evanchak, who presided at the meeting, BACA members “Nozzle,” “Torch”, Kiwanis program chair Martin Vota; and kneeling is BACA member “Squirrel.”

 

 

Taylorville Kiwanis Club member Blain Cornwell (right) was given the “Distinguished Lieutenant Governor” award by the Illinois-Iowa District Kiwanis Convention recently, for his years of service in that role.  Taylorville Kiwanis member Martin Vota (middle), who is taking over as District Lieutenant Governor, presented the award to Cornwell at the Club’s Tuesday meeting.  Taylorville Kiwanis Club president Michael Evanchak, who presided over Tuesday’s meeting, is at the left.

 

 

Taylorville Kiwanis Club president Michael Evanchak (left) presented a check for nearly eleven-hundred dollars to local Kiwanis treasurer Judy Prasun (right).  The check represents half the proceeds from the August 6th WRAN Kiwanis Radiothon fund-raiser.

 

 

 

Pana Police And Christian County Officers Involved In Standoff

Pana Police responded to a barricaded subject on Wednesday and Thursday. On Wednesday Pana Officers were dispatched to the 500 block of North State Street due to a call for a violation of an order of protection on an adult male. Officers responded and discovered property damage and evidence to establish probable cause to arrest the adult male for the violation but the subject had fled the area. 

 

Officers located the adult male at a separate location and requested he exit his residence while speaking to him through an open window. The male armed himself with a knife, barricaded himself inside his residence and initiated a standoff with officers who were not aware if additional weapons were inside. Additional Pana Officers, along with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office and Central Illinois Enforcement Group (CIEG) responded and secured a perimeter around the residence; Pana Ambulance and EMS were called to a staging area nearby. Officers negotiated with the subject for several hours, including utilizing family members but gained no cooperation. A decision was made to removed uniformed officers and squad cars from the area to reduce pressure on the subject while leaving covert surveillance on the property. The residence was under surveillance for nearly 12 hours waiting for the subject to exit and be taken into custody for the criminal offense and prevent additional court-ordered violations and possible injury against the protected victim. 

 

On Thursday at 10:20 in the morning, the same subject was seen leaving the residence on foot and resources were called in, including the Pana Police K-9 Unit, Pana Officers, Christian County Deputies, and CIEG officers, to apprehend the subject. The Pana K-9 Unit tracked the subject through a densely brushed area where the subject was found hiding and laying in the back of a pickup truck holding a 12-inch knife to his chest. Officers secured a perimeter and continued to negotiate. At 10:35 in the morning during negotiations, a taser was deployed and the subject was temporarily incapacitated and dropped the knife.  Officers quickly secured the subject and requested Pana Ambulance and EMS to respond and was transported to Pana Hospital for evaluation. 

 

Pana Officers remained at the hospital with the subject who was in police custody and threatening himself. The entire incident was nearly 30 hours in length. Chief Bland was appreciative of the support from the Pana Officers and Dispatchers, Christian County Deputies and Dispatchers and Agents from the CIEG who were involved. Regional Radio News has not learned of the subject's name at this time, as it is being withheld for privacy and may be released at a later date. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more updates.

New Faces At Christian County Sheriff's Office

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office announced the hiring of some new officers.  Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says that small Sheriff’s Offices have to work harder because they are losing officers to bigger departments.

 

 

Kettelkamp is proud of the four officer’s he’s hired: Tony Telford, Amy Fulk, Andrew Voorhees, and Steve O’Brien.

 

 

The four new officers have already started.

 

 

 

Boil Order Issued For Parts Of Edinburg

The Village of Edinburg has issued a boil order at 2 PM on Monday. The public Water Supply issued the boil order for customers located on Elm Street from Masonic to Wildcat Way. Water supply personnel will return the system to normal operation as soon as possible after bacteriological samples demonstrate that the water is safe for domestic use. Customers in the affected are encouraged to treat all water for drinking or culinary purposes by bringing it to a rolling boil for at least 5 minutes.  For more information contact Superintendent Mike Lebshier at 623-5542.

Taylorville Man Sentenced To 30 Years For Felony Possession Of A Firearm & Body Armor

A Taylorville man plead guilty in Christian County Court today which resulted in a 30 year sentence. Theodore M. Fleming Jr. plead guilty to possession of a weapon and body armor by a felon.  Fleming plead guilty to the charge and will receive 30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections along with 3 years of court supervision, otherwise known as parole. Fleming was arrested on June 28th, 2018 after an altercation at a home in Pana on June 25th of that year. Fleming was also charged with home invasion with a dangerous weapon, felony possession of a firearm, and discharging a firearm during a home invasion. All of those charges, along with two counts of possession and operating an uninsured motor vehicle were dropped in exchange for Fleming’s plea of guilty. Fleming will have credit for 417 days already served. Fleming was remanded back to the Christian County Jail to await transfer to the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Busy Week Ahead for Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce

A busy week upcoming for the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce as beginning Wednesday they will have 4 straight days of events.

 

CEO of the Chamber Patty Hornbuckle says Wednesday kicks off the fun with business after hours at Jenner Ag in Taylorville.

 

 

The following day will be the Ameren Lunch and Learn session at Charro Mexican Restaurant in Taylorville where you can learn to save some money by making your home more energy efficient.

 

 

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

Christian County Sheriff Talks School Safety

School has entered its first week of the 2019 and 2020 year and Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says safety is always the main concern. He asks that people remain cautious while they’re driving especially early in the morning.

 

 

The National Safety Council has put out some tips to promote school safety as well.

 

 

The Christian County Sheriff’s office along with city police at all area schools are working hard to have a game plan in place to deal with any safety issues inside or outside the school.

Farmers Market Closer to the End

The Farmers Market can be found Saturdays on Taylorville Square starting at 9 with great products to fit any need.

 

Ed Downs is the Co-President of the Farmers Market. Downs know that at current time we are closer to then end of the market than we are to the beginning.

 

 

While some product has been struggling to make it to the farmers market the Calhoun County Peaches have been nothing short of amazing.

 

 

Downs encourages anyone who is interested to stop by and see them on the Taylorville Square Saturday’s from 9 to noon.

Loving Arms Pregnancy Center Opening Location In Pana

The Loving Arms Crisis Pregnancy Center is building a new facility for a satellite building in Pana. Loving Arms Director Cathy Coker talks about the unique opportunity that they have to help the residents of Pana, who currently have to come to Taylorville.

 

One thing that the Loving Arms Center is doing is helping new fathers as well.

 

The center will be staffed with a center coordinator and a receptionist. There will also be volunteer positions including janitorial, peer counselors, and general office work.  The center hopes to be open in January with a  grand opening set for Mothers Day.


 

The new center will be at 201 South Locust Street in Pana. The center is always looking for help with volunteering.  For more information visit www.LACPC.com or call the center at 217-824-7200.

Plan In Place To Connect All Of Illinois With Internet

A plan to bring internet access to every part of Illinois is being heavily invested in by Governor JB Pritzker. Pritzker says a broadband advisory council will be focusing on heavy broadband expansion across Illinois with focus on Education, Economic Development, and Telemedicine.

 

 

The program is called “Connect Illinois” and will be a 420 million dollar program. Downstate Illinois is especially feeling the pinch of having trouble with internet access as Karri Butterfield a resident of Payson and a member of the Black Bay Group explains.

 

 

The Advisory Council will plan and seek federal funding as well on the up and coming project. For more information visit https://connect.illinois.edu/.

Central Illinois Foodbank Ready to Launch Middle Mile Food Rescue Program

Central Illinois Foodbank has been working hard for years now to stomp out hunger in Central Illinois, and there is help on the way.

 

Public Relations Manager Ashley Earnest is happy to announce that the Middle Mile Food Rescue Program will be in full swing soon.

 

 

Earnest knows this program will be a great weapon in the fight against hunger she shares the number of food going to waste and it is quite alarming.

 

 

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

Sit Down Meals Make a Happy Healthy Family

The St. Louis Dairy Council is trying to do their part to ensure that we are eating the correct way and staying in the best shape possible.

 

Registered Dietitian Jill Williams says it is often overlooked but sit down family meals can be essential to the upbringing of your child.

 

 

On top of saving money, eating at home is often a healthier option as opposed to eating out according to Williams.

 

 

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

Shelby County Royalty Attend State Fair

 

Miss Shelby County along with some of the other pageant winners got to be Royalty at the Illinois State Fair. 2019 Miss Shelby County, Adilyn McCray and 2019 Junior Miss Shelby County Kylie Smith attended the County Fair Day at the Illinois State Fair on August 9th. Sara Long, Director of the Shelby County Pageants, says the girls enjoyed their trip to the State Fair.

 

 

That State Pageant in January will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield with over 70 participants competing. 

 

Queen Adilyn McCray and Kylie Smith will keep busy through the rest of the Summer, as Long highlights some activities that are coming up.

 

 

The Illinois County Fair Queen Pageant will be held in January of 2020 in conjunction with the Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention.

EpiPen Law Signed By Governor Pritzker

A new Illinois law is changing insurance coverage and this is good news for children with severe allergies. Insurance companies must cover office treatments and visits for Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. 

 

 

The other new law requires coverage of epi-pens for children with severe allergies. Pen costs have increased by over 400% in the last decade.

 

Governor Pritzker says 2 children per classroom have some sort of food allergy.

Taylorville Schools Back In Session Thursday

With school being back in session all across Illinois, Taylorville is no different as there will be children all excited or disappointed that they will have to be back in classes on Thursday. Superintendent of Taylorville School District,  Dr. Chris Dougherty sat with Regional Radio News and talked about how excited she is for the upcoming school year.

 

 

Dr. Dougherty says that parents can help their kids get ready to be productive at school.

 

Dr. Dougherty says that they are working to make effective safety plans for the School.

 

 

Dr. Dougherty has also announced that there will be meals available for all fire, police, and EMS workers this year if needed.

Ship Program No More at Senior Citizens Center

Changes are coming to the Christian County Senior Citizens Center effective immediately. 

 

Gerry Mahr with the Senior Citizens Center says that their Ship Program is officially terminated. They will still be able to answer some brief questions but there will no longer be sessions to reserve.

 

 

Mahr understands there is still a need for the Ship Program assistance and says other than answering a quick question or two they will have to redirect you to someone else in the area.

 

 

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

Bourne Still not on Board with Budget

Avery Bourne represents the 95th District in the Illinois House of Representatives. Even with the time that has passed Bourne says she is struggling to get on board with the current budget.

 

 

Bourne admits that in Springfield it is backward as the budget is often what is tackled last when they are in spring session, she would like to see the budget put in place first and foremost.

 

 

We all are aware by now that the budget introduced by Governor Pritzker is the largest budget in the history of the state. Bourne explains why the budget is so high this time around.

 

 

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

Kincaid Safe Passage Still Running Well

The Kincaid Safe Passage program is still very much alive and well.  This is the message that Safe Passage Coordinator Denise Evans has been trying to push since she and Chief Wheeler have left for Taylorville.  Evans has been working diligently to run the program in both Taylorville and Kincaid.  Evans says that if people in Kincaid want to help, they need to come to the next Board meeting.

 

Evans says Judge Brad T. Paisley has been working hard on this program, not just in Taylorville and Kincaid but all around Christian County.

 

Finally, Evans says you won’t want to miss the Safe Passage Festival in Kincaid on August 24th and 25th.

 

For more information contact Denise Evans on her cell at 217-638-3247 any time, the Kincaid Police Department at 217-237-5568, and Taylorville Police Department at 217-777-0080. Evans will speak with anyone at any time about the program and any questions you may have.

Mount Auburn Elects New Mayor

 

The Village of Mount Auburn has a new Mayor.  Amber Dooley was voted as the new Mayor.  She received 4 yes votes and 1 nay. Dooley became Mayor after Brett Milburn resigned suddenly last week.  Dooley took the oath of office immediately after being voted in.

 

Dooley says she wants to move forward and make the village the best it can be.

 

 

Mayor Dooley says she’s there to listen to the citizens of Mount Auburn.

 

 

Mayor Amber Dooley takes over as Mayor effective immediately. The Mount Auburn Farmer’s Picnic takes place August 23-25.

Assumption Hit with Damage from Monday Night's Severe Weather

The Assumption area was one that saw damage from the high winds and heavy rain that pounded Central Illinois Monday night.

 

 

Tim Hardimon and his family have lived just east of Assumption for some 12 years.  When the severe weather headed their way Monday night, he and his family headed for the basement before the damage happened.

 

 

2 very large trees came down in the Hardimon's driveway where 2 cars were parked, but neither were damaged.

 

 

 

The Hardimon's were safe and no one was injured at their house, from Monday night's storm.

 

 

Several fields of corn along the blacktop east of Assumption, were blown down in Monday night's storm.

 

 

This is the blacktop east of Assumption, looking west.  Several inches of rain fell in that area, along with high winds, Monday night.

 

 

EF1 Tornado Goes Through Christian County

Picture courtesy: Emergency Management Agency

 

After severe weather ravaged Central Illinois Monday evening, Emergency Management Services began to survey the damage once the sun came out. While reports are still going to be a couple days, Regional Radio News has learned from Christian County Emergency Management Director Mike Crews, that there was in fact a tornado touchdown in Christian County. 

 

 

All in all though Christian County survived a strong storm relatively intact considering the severe weather sirens have been down for maintenance.

 

 

The severe weather sirens will be operational next week. The reports are still preliminary.  An official report will come out in a few days assessing the path of the tornado.

Windsor Harvest Picnic Starts Soon

The Windsor Harvest Picnic is ready for a great week ahead as they will be welcoming residents from all around to come enjoy themselves soon.

 

Windsor Harvest Picnic President Stacy Cole says the pork chop dinner on Thursday is always popular and bands will be performing as well.

 

 

Every year the Windsor Harvest Picnic starts with a patriotic opening and this year will be no different as the Legion has been taking care of the flags.

 

 

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

Plenty to do in Shelbyville

There is always plenty to do in Shelbvyville and the Shelby County Office of Tourism has you covered on some of the best features around town.

 

Executive Director Freddie Fry is excited for the Lake Shelbyville Digital Photography Contest to once again come back this year.

 

 

The Roxy Theater is Shelbyville has been getting some of the newer films coming to its screen at an earlier time than usual, Fry says it is always a popular place in town.

 

 

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

Taylorville School Board Meets New Teachers, Purchases Dump Truck at Monthly Meeting

A busy school board meeting last night saw a packed house as it was standing room only at the start. Roughly 10-15 new faculty were in attendance and each had the opportunity to introduce themselves to the board. Some new business handled last night was the consideration to hire a new HR Clerk, this passed unanimously. The big discussion however came for the consideration of purchasing a new dump truck to replace the old van that has seen better days. Dr. George Freese was the lone vote of no and explains his reasons why.

 

 

Dr. Ronald Mizer was the one vote to abstain or pass when the roll call came up, he says when it boils down to it there were some questions he would have liked to have answered.

 

 

School Board Member Sarah Van Huss was one of the yes votes for the new dump truck, in her mind this was a no-brainer as the district was long overdue for a new vehicle

 

 

Superintendent Dr. Chris Dougherty is looking forward to the kids being in the halls for the first day of classes on Thursday, but teachers are ready to report tomorrow.

 

 

As a whole the Taylorville School Board is looking forward to another great academic year in Central Illinois.

Pharmacy Benefit Manager Regulation Bill to be Signed

When in the Pharmaceutical business for the smaller businesses it can feel like an unfair fight as the big companies seem to have a stranglehold on the market.

 

State Senator Andy Manar represents the 48th District of Illinois, he has been working on the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Regulation Bill for years now and is happy that it will be signed into law soon.

 

 

Manar looks back at the beginning of the process for this bill as he says it was going to be a real uphill battle.

 

 

Manar describes the purpose as to why he is fighting so hard for this to go through as it is unfair to the family owned pharmacies.

 

 

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

Severe Weather, Possible Tornadoes Hit Regional Radio Listening Area Monday Night

Severe weather creating some possible tornadoes, rumbled thru the Regional Radio listening area Monday night, causing numerous tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings.

 

Christian County saw at least 3 tornado warnings as a result of possible tornadoes reported by the National Weather Service near Edinburg and Stonington.  

 

Christian County Emergency Management Agency director Mike Crews told Regional Radio listeners during our live coverage, that these storms came up in a hurry during the 9 o’clock hour.

 

 

The storms were part of a line that extended from Quincy to Champaign.  They continued triggering severe thunderstorm and flash flood warnings into late Monday night.

Weather Service Says Severe Weather Possible This Afternoon and Tonight

Christian County Emergency Management Agency Director Mike Crews late this morning shared information with Regional Radio, that the National Weather Service in Lincoln is forecasting severe weather for our area this afternoon and tonight.

Specifically, the Weather Service says there is an enhanced threat for severe weather north of Interstate 72 thru tonight, and a slight threat between I-72 and I-70.

They added that for the Regional Radio listening area, the timing for severe weather is between 8 o'clock and midnight, saying the primary threat will be damaging winds, although they aren't ruling out large hail or a possible tornado.

Heavy rain is expected from these storms as well.  Areas south of a Litchfield to Effingham line have already received 4 to 6 inches the past 24 hours.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for the latest weather information, watches and warnings.

Taylorville Police Investigating Weekend Death

Taylorville Police are investigating a Saturday death.

Police tell Regional Radio News that they were called to the 700 block of East Cleveland on Saturday afternoon at 5:29.  They found 45-year-old Daniel N. Fallin of Taylorville, with a gunshot wound to the chest. Fallin was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police add that preliminary results of the investigation are consistent with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, as the cause of death.

Taylorville Police are being assisted in the investgation by the Christian County Coroner's Office.

Property Tax Relief Force Ready to Work

Representatives will be back in session in Springfield before we know it as they will continue the fight to make Illinois a great place to live.

 

State Senator Andy Manar represents the 48th District of Illinois, he says one of the first agendas on his calendar will be working with the property tax relief force.

 

 

While in some instances putting a team together like this can take some time to gel and find their groove Manar states he is not worried about this task force as they will be ready to hit the ground running.

 

 

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

Taylorville School Board To Meet Tonight; Discuss Business

The Taylorville School Board will meet tonight for their regular monthly board meeting. After approval of the minutes, and agendas, there will be a discussion about the consideration of purchasing a dump truck for the school. New business will include consideration of district evaluators and board of education committee assignments and meeting dates.  The School Board will look to approve setting the budget hearing date for September 21st.  A New HR clerk position will also be discussed including consideration of the hazardous walkway resolution which was discussed at the town hall meeting. The meeting will conclude with a report from Superintendent Chris Dougherty.

New Database In Taylorville Helps Those With Special Needs

A new database is being put together by the Taylorville Police Department.  This database is to help officers and other Emergency Services help a person who may be dealing with special needs.  Taylorville Police Department Officer Kirsten Bolinger explains why this database is so important.

 

 

Officer Bolinger has been working on this since she put in a nearly 40-hour course to help people in crisis whether it’s mental illness or autism, or anything similar. Bolinger says one of the reasons why this database is so important is because each person is different and some situations need to be handled differently.

 

 

Officer Bolinger says that when you give the police station information on your loved one, you’re not just helping the police station, you’re helping fire and EMS as well.

 

Officer Bolinger reminds everyone that this is strictly voluntary. This isn’t something you have to do, it’s just a way to help the community. Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler is working on the website to get a form put together for the database. It should be online this week. If anyone has concerns or questions contact Officer Bolinger or Chief Wheeler.

Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Two New Members

There is always plenty of excitement at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce. This is especially true when the Chamber get to welcome new members.

 

Patty Hornbuckle is the CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce she is happy to welcome two new members the Chamber that are very familiar with each other.

 

 

Hornbuckle is hoping to see the new members at the business after hours this month at Jenner Ag on August 21st the event will start at 4:30.

 

 

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

US Department Of Agriculture Declares Disaster For Illinois

The US Department of Agriculture has declared an agriculture disaster for all 102 counties in Illinois.  The measure, that was pushed by Governor J.B. Pritzker, will help bring more resources to affected communities throughout the State. Pritzker says one of the reasons he asked for help was because of the flooding this spring.

 

 

Governor Pritzker had filed for help last month.

 

The Department of Agriculture has said that this will be able to help farmers to apply for low-interest FSA loans and cover things like living expenses, production costs, and other necessities.

State Fair Underway In Springfield

The Illinois State Fair is underway in Springfield. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker says that the fair is all about horse racing, corn dogs, concerts, carnival rides, and a celebration of agriculture.

 

 

Tickets are still available and are available for everything including concerts. Weekday fair admission is just five-dollars and the fair is offering new promotions this year including discounts for food, drink, and much more. The theme for this year’s State Fair is “Building Our Future” Says Kevin Gordon, who is the fair manager.

 

Tickets for weekends are only 10 dollars on Friday and Saturday. For a list of daily events visit: Illinoisstatefair.info. 

Congressman Rodney Davis Talks About Solutions To Central Illinois Drug Problems

While it has been no secret that there has been a huge outbreak in the last decade in methamphetamine use, the treatment options are getting better and the help that is provided, especially in Christian County and Central Illinois are getting better all the time.  Congressman Rodney Davis says that one of the fixes for methamphetamine coming into Central Illinois is by creating a border structure to prevent drugs coming in from Mexico.

 

 

Congressman Davis says that it has just become a vicious cycle of whatever the easiest drug to get is.

 

 

A lot of praise comes in from Congressman Davis about the Taylorville Police Department.

 

 

Congressman Davis will be hosting open office hours in Rochester at the Village Hall on August 12th from 2:30-4.

Farmers Market Still Waiting on Illinois Sweet Corn

The Farmers Market can be found Saturdays on Taylorville Square starting at 9 with great products to fit any need.

 

Ed Downs is the Co-President of the Farmers Market. He knows how much local residents have been looking forward to Illinois Sweet Corn, but unfortunately it is looking like this week will not have the product once again.

 

 

While it has been a difficult growing season throughout the Midwest Downs sees there is still plenty of produce for you to get your hands on, he just encourages your to get out there early for it.

 

 

Downs encourages anyone who is interested to stop by and see them on the Taylorville Square Saturday’s from 9 to noon.

New Illinois Law To Bring More Teachers Into State

A new Illinois law is aiming at helping to add more teachers to the classroom. The law eliminates the need for teachers to take a basic skills test for obtaining a state license. This test often required teachers to demonstrate skills that were unrelated to their job. Board representative Emily Fox says they already have measures in place for qualification and this test was overkill.

 

This test was seen as a way of blocking many teachers from beginning their careers and was unnecessary. 


 

At the start of last school year there were more than 1400 unfilled teaching positions in Illinois.

Taylorville Man Sentenced To 12 Years For Attacking Two Police Officers, Burglary

A Taylorville man was sentenced to 12 years in custody today from Judge Brad T. Paisley. Brandon Emery was sentenced today in 17CF227 to 5 years and 18CF241 and 18CF242 receiving 7 years along with 2 years of court supervision. Emery was charged with burglary, resisting arrest, and two counts of aggravated battery. Emery could have received 13 years maximum but was sentenced to 12. The case stems from September 20th, 2018 when Brandon Emery attacked Officer Wesley Withrow by slapping him in his patrol vehicle.

 

The incident started when a cab driver called the Taylorville Police Department saying that Emery was hitting his mirror. When Withrow arrived at the scene he then stated that Emery charged him in his police vehicle and struck both him and later on Officer Nathan Thompson, hitting Thompson’s jaw before he was subdued. Emery also broke into the courthouse and State Attorney Mike Havera, said in his closing arguments that if Emery would be brazen enough to break into the courthouse, what would stop him from breaking into another Christian County home. Public Defender Michael Drake asked for 8-9 years stating that most of the cases that had been presented and talked about had been dismissed and that Emery had very little recollection of the incident and needed treatment more than punishment. Emery made a final statement after all witnesses were called and final arguments were made.  

 

In his statement, Emery said that he wanted to apologize to everyone, that his words of being a “risk-taker” were taken out of context, and that he was a risk-taker but not in a negative manner.  He also asked for treatment and said drugs hurt him and took him away from his family.  Emery also said that he loved his children and family before breaking down in tears. When given his sentencing Judge Paisley said he wanted to make sure everyone knew that attacking police officers was simply unacceptable. State Attorney Mike Havera agreed and reiterated it to Regional Radio News.

 

 

Havera says he is happy with the ruling today.

 

 

Emery has already served 381 days in the correctional center and has the potential to be out in 5 years on good behavior. 

School Back in Session Next Week

School being back in session is right around the corner as students will once again be in the halls of Taylorville Schools next week.

 

Eric Bruder is the new Principal of Memorial Elementary School. He says they are plenty excited to get students back in the building with their great staff 

 

 

Bruder says a good nights sleep makes all the difference when it comes to the progress your young one can make in school.

 

 

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

Rodney Davis Speaks Out On Recent Mass Shootings

A mass shooting is any incident involving 4 or more injured. With over 200 mass shootings in the United States this year politicians are working on better ways to protect citizens and ways to prevent these incidents from happening. Representative of the 13th District, Congressman Rodney Davis, says that Illinois as a state has some of the strongest background check laws.

 

 

Congressman Davis says that the new bill that the Democrats wanted to pass wouldn’t have prevented  the recent mass shootings.


 

Davis says that he thinks mass shootings have increased in the United States due to a devaluation of human life.

 

Congressman Rodney Davis was on the congressional baseball team that was shot at in June of 2017 that resulted in 1 death and 6 injured.

Pana Pride Making Pana Beautiful

Pana Pride has been working diligently to make Pana a better place to live in hopes of bringing more businesses to town.

 

Pana Pride President Melissa Rybolt shares some of the history of Pana Pride and what exactly they are all about. 

 

 

Rybolt invites you to come to the next Pana Pride meeting next Tuesday and as a special treat ice cream will be served.

 

 

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

Aldermen Raise Concern Over Hathaway Houses

Two Taylorville Alderman are very concerned about the new Hathaway houses that will be built in Taylorville. On Monday evening it was announced in open forum, that there would be new housing being built. Aldermen Chris Skultety and Lee Lanzotti spoke with Regional Radio News. While neither man wanted to have their statements recorded, they told Regional Radio News, that the Aldermen have been told by multiple people that they do not like the low-income housing and don’t want it in Taylorville. Both Aldermen encouraged their constituents if they have a question, comment, or concern to please bring it up either to them in a phone call, or to come to the City Council meetings that are held at the Municipal Building every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month. Both Aldermen are concerned that too many people will misuse the system and the housing will not go to the people it’s designed to help. When asked for comment, Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry says that he is still in full support of this project and feels it will be great for Taylorville.

 

The housing project has just been started. Mayor Barry feels that it will not be completed for at least another year maybe two.

Taylorville Kiwanis Club Holds Business Meeting at Weekly Luncheon

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held their monthly business meeting, at their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

 

Kiwanis committees reported on activities to support local Kiwanis Club projects for children and youth in the Taylorville community.

 

Among those reports, Kiwanis member and Kiwanis Park committee member Larry Kemner reported that the concrete has been poured for a second smaller pavilion, and materials have been donated to build the enclosure.

 

Kiwanis Interclub committee chair Blain Cornwell reported that a group of local Kiwanis members attended a Springfield Kiwanis Club meeting in July, and a meeting with the Raymond Harvel Kiwanis Club earlier this month.

 

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.

National Night Out Has Good Crowd

 

A National Night Out brought out a great crowd to the Taylorville Fire Department Tuesday evening. Free food, face paint, a bags tournament and getting to see police, fire, and EMS vehicles were a big hit with the many kids that were there. Taylorville Police Officer Kirsten Bolinger, says this helps build the community togetherness.

 

The cherry picker fire vehicle was put on display and people could get inside the top part of the ladder for a demonstration.

Blue Mound Fall Festival Starts Tomorrow

Thursday is the opening day of the 109th annual Blue Mound Fall Festival and the town is ready to see some familiar faces through the weekend.

 

Chairman of the Festival Tom Ritter may not have been involved for the first ever Blue Mound Fall Festival but he has seen his fair share of them, he says even in recent memory it continues to grow.

 

 

The theme this year is We Are Blue Mound. Ritter says this theme originated from the school in town and is all about community.

 

 

With tomorrow being the opening day of the festival Ritter wants to see everyone come out for the introduction of the Grand Marshall at 6:45 on the stage.

 

 

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

Meth Usage In Central And Southern Illinois Rising

A new report generated by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority shows that methamphetamine use is still a big concern in the state of Illinois. Methamphetamine related arrests increased by 289 percent from 2010 to 2017. Arrest rates are higher in Southern and Central Illinois than Northern Illinois and much higher in rural areas than urban. Researcher Lauren Weisner says cost may be a reason more people are using meth.

 

 

Most people arrested according to the data are white males under the age of 39.  Weisner says there are some takeaways from the data.

 

Weisner says much of the meth coming to Illinois is coming from Mexico. For the full report click here.

University Of Illinois Welcomes New SNAP Employee

The University of Illinois Extension Staff has announced a new community worker for SNAP-ED.  Katie Micenheimer will work with residents identified for the food program to provide basic nutrition, food safety, physical activity, and food budgeting education for low income individuals. Micenheimer is happy to be working with the U of I office and hails from the rural Taylorville area.

 

Micenheimer is excited to give back to the community and is excited about her new responsibilities.

 

 

For more information on the program, visit the “Eat, Move, Save” website and the University of Illinois Extension page as well.

WRAN, Taylorville Kiwanis Club Raise $1075 in Annual Radiothon

WRAN groovy 97.3 in Taylorville and the Taylorville Kiwanis Club, raised one-thousand 75-dollars, during the Club’s annual Kiwanis Radiothon live on the air on Tuesday.

 

Kiwanis members sold sponsorships in the day of broadcasting, and Kiwanis members were guest announcers that delivered sponsors’ commercials during the day.

 

WRAN donated half the total sales for the day to the Club for local Kiwanis projects for children and youth.

 

The Miller Media Group and the Taylorville Kiwanis Club have partnered to hold the annual Radiothon on-the-air, for over 20 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.

More Low Income Housing Coming To City Of Taylorville

Alderman Chris Skultety indicated at Monday's City Council Meeting that 48 new Hathaway houses were being laid out and the groundwork was taking shape for these houses to be built. These houses are for low-income families with 2-3 bedrooms usually. Alderman Lee Lanzotti spoke out against the homes saying that this isn't the first time that this has happened and that he felt blindsided that the motion went through without the Alderman's knowledge.  Lanzotti asked Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry for comment and Barry said he fully supports these houses and if they tried to back out they would probably face a lawsuit.

 

Alderman Chris Skultety said he wasn't trying to divide the council. He just wanted to make sure people were aware of it, because he had started to receive questions from some of his constituents concerning the property.

 

 

With the stakes just being laid out on this and the planning just beginning, this project is still a long way off. There is already Hathaway homes that are located in Taylorville. Amidst concerns that this draws more police incidents, Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler and Mayor Barry insisted that in Taylorville, these houses have had very little incidents. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more as this story develops.

Still Time to Apply to LLCC in Taylorville

College is meant to be a challenge, it isn’t for everyone but for those who attend and achieve that degree stayed the course and managed to separate themselves from the pack.

 

Director of Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville Dee Krueger knows the first step is to apply for LLCC in Taylorville, she says there is still time to do so.

 

 

Once on campus Krueger knows the difference between a good student and one that might struggle. She knows it might sound silly but Krueger says the first step to being a good student is attending all your classes.

 

 

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

New 4-H Year Starts in September

With the Christian County Fair now in the rear view mirror 4-H is still on the mind as the new 4-H year will begin next month.

 

4-H and Ag Lit Program Coordinator Rebecca Livingston with the U of I Extension Office is looking forward to the new 4-H year coming up and says there is still time to join.

 

 

Livingston shares some of the benefits you can have being a member of 4-H including making live long friends like she did.

 

 

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

Taylorville Police Department Hosting National Night Out

The Taylorville Police Department is hosting a National Night Out event at the Taylorville Fire House Tuesday Evening from 5-8. The event is a chance for families to come out and spend time getting to know each other and public officials such as the police, fire departments, and city officials.  Chief Dwayne Wheeler says the event will have free food for all family members.

 

 

For more information visit the Taylorville Police Department’s Facebook page.

Taylorville City Council Discusses Motor Fuel Tax, Alcohol Sales During Monday Meeting

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening to discuss ordinances and hear on issues affecting the community. One of the main topics of discussion on Monday evening was the motor fuel tax. The city had been audited for their motor fuel tax use and found that they had been using the funds incorrectly.   Due to this, the City of Taylorville has to pay back some of that money. Thanks to assistance from District 6 Local Roads,  the city will not have to pay back most of it.  The total that could have been due was from a compiled 3 years from 2014-2016. The years of 2017 and 2018 are still in review.  Alderman Larry Budd says that moving forward all procedures have been modified to utilize only materials and specific street improvement projects for Motor Fuel Tax Funds.

 

The original amount was around $921,000. IDOT who did the audit is satisfied that this is taken care of. Alderman Budd says this has been fixed to prevent issues like this from happening in the future.

 

In other actions in the city council meeting, the city approved the sale of liquor at places such as convenience stores, grocery stores, and golf clubs on Sunday mornings from 6 AM to Noon. The fees for impounding a vehicle if the city does it will be set for $500 plus any fees associated with towing and storage of vehicles. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry also talked about the improvements that he has seen from how much the city has improved from the December 1st tornado.

 

 

The city also approved a K9 unit can take their patrol vehicle to their house so they’re ready in case of an emergency. The city also honored Police Officers Alwerdt, Fox, Mense, and Ponzel for their hard work in July. Brian Skenkla, Taylorville bowler, was also honored as Mayor Barry announced August 5th as Brian Skenkla Day.

 

 

 

Weather Sirens Down For Maintenance

The city of Taylorville is scheduled to do their monthly testing on Tuesday morning, but according to Fire Chief Mike Crews, the Taylorville outdoor weather sirens will be down for maintenance. Everything should resume as planned for the following month. Chief Crews was unavailable for comment. For more information visit the Christian County Emergency Management Facebook page.

June a Busy Month for Shelby County Community Services

Stress impacts all of us one way or another in our daily lives for some it begins to be too much to handle and need to reach out for help.

 

This is where Clinical Director Ed Lacheta with Shelby County Community Services comes in. The summer months are normally when you see lower numbers of crisis contacts however June kept Lacheta and his team pretty busy.

 

 

Things changed in 1956 with a reclassification of addiction. Lacheta explains how difficult battling an addiction can be.

 

 

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

ISP Reminds You About School Safety

With school fast approaching the Illinois State Police wants to remind you about some clarifications when it comes to school zones and buses. Education Information Trooper Sean Ramsey says that the school zone rules are in effect when there are children present.

 

The law says when children are present and Trooper Ramsey clarifies the word present.

 

 

Trooper Ramsey says that cars also need to be wary of buses and that you can get an automatic suspension if you pass a bus with the red stop sign out.

 

 

For more information on school safety and bus safety visit the ISP website or look here.

Relay for Life at Sullivan High School on Saturday

Since 1985 Relay for Life events have been popping up across the country in hopes of raising money for the fight against cancer.

 

Adam McReynolds is with the Moultrie County Relay for Life he is hoping to see everyone possible out at the Sullivan High School Track this Saturday from 3 to 10 in the evening.

 

 

McReynolds is hopeful that a good amount of money can be raised to help those dealing with cancer in the area. He shares what they are planning to do with the money raised.

 

 

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

Illinois Department of Public Health Concerned About Vaping Among Teenagers

Vaping has been used as an alternative to smoking and it's being promoted as a "healthier choice." Vaping is still being studied as there is much to learn about the side effects. One of the concerns is vaping among adolescents.  The Illinois Department of Public Health is investigating three young people that were hospitalized after severe breathing problems from vaping. Melaney Arnold, is the public information officer for the IDPH and she explains just what the IDPH is investigating.

 

 

Arnold says that they are concerned about a lack of brain development associated vaping.

 

 

Arnold says if you vape and experience any chest pains to seek medical emergency attention. In Wisconsin, 11 teenagers are confirmed having vaping lung damage and 7 more cases that they are investigating.

Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest Little Miss, Junior Miss Entries Full; Other Age Category Entries Still Open

Officials with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest have announced that they’ve filled their 15 entry slots for each of their Little Miss and Junior Miss contests as part of the annual Chillifest pageants on Saturday, October 5th.

 

Entries are still being accepted for the Little Mister Chilli Pepper, Teen Miss, and Miss Chilli Pepper contests.

 

Little Mister Chilli Pepper entries are for children ages 3-8, Teen Miss Chilli Pepper entrants are ages 12-14, and Miss Chilli Pepper entrants are ages 15-19.  Participants must be their category age on October 5th.  Entrants must be residents of Christian County.

 

  An important change in this year’s pageant, is that all entries must be submitted on-line.  The link to the entry page can be found by clicking the “Pageant Entry Form” icon on the right side of the event’s page, chillifest-dot-info, that’s Chillifest with 2-L’s.  You can also find the link on the Taylorville Chilli Pepper Pageant’s Facebook page.  Each age group contest is limited to the first 15 entries, and the deadline for entering is September 6th at 5pm.

 

There will be one rehearsal for all contestants, on Friday October 4th on the main stage in front of US bank. Practice will not exceed an hour. Parents are welcome.

 

Little Miss and Mister contestants will have no interview. Junior miss contestants will answer an onstage question, and the Teen and Miss Contestants will have a 3-minute interview with the judges, then an onstage question. All onstage questions to be used during the pageant will be given prior to pageant day. The interview portion of the Teen and Miss pageant is held at 9 a.m. Oct. 5th.    Contestants are asked to wear dress clothes suitable for a graduation ceremony.

As for awards during the Greater Taylorville Chillifest Pageants, there will be a winner, 1st runner up, 2nd runner up, photogenic, best dressed, stage presence, most raffle tickets sold. (teen/miss) congeniality, interview, people’s choice.     

 

This year’s event will take place October 5th and 6th, on the Taylorville square. 

Taylorville City Council To Discuss Sunday Morning Alcohol Sales at Monday Night's Meeting

The Taylorville City Council will meet at 7PM Monday, August 5th. One of the big topics that will be discussed is updating the city code for the section that talks about impounding vehicles for certain violations and administrative fees. An authorization for selling a city of Taylorville Pontoon Boat will look to be approved. An amended ordinance will be discussed for the City Code to modify the hours for the sale of alcoholic liquor on Sunday mornings. In Emergency Services, Chief Wheeler has requested some funds for purchasing furniture and electronics for the intelligence and training room and some vest outer covers for the community action team. A treasurer and Mayors report will also be heard, including the recognition of Police Officers Alwerdt, Fox, Mense, and Ponzel.

Illinois Getting New State Sports License Plate

 

 

A new license plate is coming to Illinois, and Cubs fans may not like it. Secretary of State Jesse White announced that there will be Saint Louis Cardinals License Plates available after Labor Day.  The plates can be pre-ordered for 69 dollars. Personalized and vanity plates cost more. According to Secretary White, these plates will go towards a good cause.

 

 

These plates are the first plates that are not from an Illinois Sports team. White thinks these plates will sell well in Illinois.

 

 

Right now the Chicago Blackhawks license plate is the most popular sports plate in Illinois, followed by the Chicago White Sox and then the Chicago Cubs.

Trevor Hooth Named Employee of the Quarter at Miller Media Group

Trevor Hooth, production director and staff announcer for the Miller Media Group radio stations in Taylorville, was voted by staff as the "Employee of the Quarter" for the second quarter of this year.

 

Hooth joined the stations in April of this year, and hosts the Morning Show on WMKR Genuine Country 94.3, as well as hosting Swap Shop on NEWSTALK WTIM certain days of the week.  Hooth is also the company's production director, making sure commercials get into the company's on-air computer system.

 

Hooth received a 100-dollar bonus, and is in the drawing next April for a Florida trip.

Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest Vendor Forms Now Available

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce has released its vendor forms for their annual Chillifest taking place on the Taylorville square October 5th and 6th.

 

Those forms can be downloaded at the event’s web site, chillifest-dot-info, that’s Chillifest with 2-L’s.  After being completed, they can be submitted to the Chamber office on the 2nd floor of the U-S Bank building of the Taylorville square.

 

Vendors are reminded that registration deadline is September 27th, and all vendors should check in by 7:30am October 6th in the Advanced Title Building.  There is an additional charge for electricity.

 

Find out all the information on the upcoming Greater Taylorville Chillifest at chillifest-dot-info.

Boil Order Lifted For Edinburg

The city of Edinburg has fixed the water main break and the boil order has been lifted.  A boil order had been in effect for the last two days as the city worked to fix the break. Everything has been fixed and the boil order has been lifted. The boil order was lifted at 9:59 Friday morning. For more information contact the city of Edinburg at 623-5542.

Farmers Market Getting Great Turnout

The Farmers Market can be found Saturdays on Taylorville Square starting at 9 with great products to fit any need.

 

Ed Downs is the Co-President of the Farmers Market. He has been incredibly pleased with the turnout so far this year on Saturday mornings with big crowds coming to the square.

 

 

The Illinois Sweet Corn is getting here a little later than expected. Downs says for the time being they have been making due with minimal loads but hopefully in the near future once again sweet corn will be full stock.

 

 

Downs encourages anyone who is interested to stop by and see them on the Taylorville Square Saturday’s from 9 to noon.

Diabetes Education Course at TMH

A couple of years ago Taylorville Memorial Hospital began offering a diabetes education course. This course is designed to help you understand diabetes and has seen anywhere from 2 to 12 students enrolled at a time.

 

Registered Dietitian with TMH Janelle Cornell says they are offering these managing diabetes courses on a regular basis in hopes of raising awareness of living with diabetes.

 

 

Throughout all of these classes that have been taught one very frequently asked question tends to pop up. Cornell says it is always a interesting topic discussing a diabetic diet because it is different for everyone.

 

 

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

Taylorville Moves Toward Industrial Park

 

Taylorville is one step closer to getting its long-awaited Industrial Park. A new sign went up this week at the front of the property being developed by the Taylorville Development Association, with assistance from the Christian County Economic Development Corporation.

 

T-D-A applied for and was granted, some 537-thousand dollars in matching grant money from the Economic Development Administration’s Chicago office. T-D-A raised the match by selling off some of the adjacent ground it owned that wasn’t needed, plus contributions by local banks.

 

President of the Taylorville Development Association, Ken Hart, told Regional Radio News that the new signs to promote the proposed Industrial Park are another step towards attracting new industry and business and more jobs, to Christian County.

 

 

With the necessary permits completed to break ground later this year, Hart says he’s looking at the end of this year as a time table for breaking ground on the infrastructure.

 

 

Hart says this wouldn’t be possible without the leadership and support from the city of Taylorville itself.

 

Ken Hart has put more than 20 years into economic development of Taylorville.

 

 

Illinois State Fair To Kick Off Next Week

The Illinois State Fair opens next week in Springfield. In an effort to try to raise attendance levels new promotions were announced Thursday. State Fair Manager Kevin Gordon says there is something new this year called a Feeding Frenzy.

 

A high dive show will be there, along with racing pigs, and harness racing. There will also be four new carnival rides this year.

 

 

The Fair will run August 8th through the 18th. For more information visit illinoisstatefair.info.
 

Texting And Driving Laws Cleared Up

With stricter laws about moving over and texting and driving being passed, there might be confusion over what the new rules are and what is OK and what isn’t. Trooper Sean Ramsey, District 9’s safety and education officer says that it’s not just dangerous for police officers but dangerous for you as well if you don’t move over.

 

 

Ramsey says, people used to move over all the time, but things have changed and he wonders if technology is part of the problem.  With cell phone use, Trooper Ramsey says that just because you have it on speaker doesn’t mean you can hold the phone.

 

 

Ramsey warns though if you want to use your phone, don’t just pull over on the side of the road to use it, especially if you are on an interstate.

 

 

The new stiffer legislation for texting and driving just went into effect, last month.

Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest Now Accepting Pageant Entries

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest, is now accepting applicants for its many pageants taking place Saturday, October 5th.

 

Start time for the pageants has been changed to noon, at the same location as past years, the event’s main stage on the south side of the Taylorville square.

 

The pageant is open to all residents of Christian County.

 

Age groups include Little Miss Chilli Pepper ages 3-6, Little Mister Chilli Pepper ages 3-8, Junior Miss Chilli Pepper ages 7-11, Teen Miss Chilli Pepper ages 12-14, and Miss Chilli Pepper ages 15-19.  Participants must be their category age on October 5th.  

 

  An important change in this year’s pageant, is that all entries must be submitted on-line.  The link to the entry page can be found by clicking the “Pageant Entry Form” icon on the right side of the event’s page, chillifest-dot-info, that’s Chillifest with 2-L’s.  You can also find the link on the Taylorville Chilli Pepper Pageant’s Facebook page.  Each age group contest is limited to the first 15 entries, and the deadline for entering is September 6th at 5pm.

 

There will be one rehearsal for all contestants, on Friday October 4th on the main stage in front of US bank. Practice will not exceed an hour. Parents are welcome.

 

Little Miss and Mister contestants will have no interview. Junior miss contestants will answer an onstage question, and the Teen and Miss Contestants will have a 3-minute interview with the judges, then an onstage question. All onstage questions to be used during the pageant will be given prior to pageant day. The interview portion of the Teen and Miss pageant is held at 9 a.m. Oct. 5th.  

Contestants are asked to wear dress clothes suitable for a graduation ceremony.

As for awards during the Greater Taylorville Chillifest Pageants, there will be a winner, 1st runner up, 2nd runner up, photogenic, best dressed, stage presence, most raffle tickets sold. (teen/miss) congeniality, interview, people’s choice.     

 

This year’s event will take place October 5th and 6th, on the Taylorville square. 

Christian County CEO Holds Orientation Meeting Thursday Night

 

It was the start of a new adventure for 17 Christian County high school students.  Thursday night was Orientation Night for the students who will be enrolled this school year, in the Christian County C-E-O, or Creating Enterpreneurial Opportunities, program.

 

The 17, along with their parents or guardians, C-E-O board members and facilitators, attended the meeting at Charro Mexican Restaurant in Taylorville.

 

C-E-O co-facilitator Dick Adams spoke to the group before meeting with the students.  Adams talked about the active and working board C-E-O has.

 

 

 

Board member and secretary of the board Mary DelValle, emcee'd the night, and told Regional Radio News after the meeting, what she shared with the new crop of students.

 

 

Get information on the Christian County C-E-O program at their web site christiancountyc-e-o-dot-com, or on their Facebook page.

It's Official: Jensen's Home Furnishings Is Now Wright's Furniture

 

It's official:  The Wright Family from Dieterich, Illinois, officially took ownership of Jensen's Home Furnishings today.  The Wright Family are fourth generation furniture store operators with stores in Dieterich, Effingham, Robinson, and now Taylorville.

 

A Grand Opening is planned for later this fall.

Presidents Now Will Have to Deal With Social Media

We are entering uncharted waters for the current President as well as all future Presidents of the United States as social media has forever changed the game.

 

Jim Bohannon, host of the Jim Bohannon show airing weeknights on Newstalk WTIM at 9, says if he were in the shoes of President Trump he would think twice before hitting send on his tweets, or at least have someone look them over to make sure the right message is getting out there.

 

 

Even with the recent Trump tweets coming out and getting him into hot water Bohannon doesn't think this will impact him too much as most people have already made up their minds on our current President.

 

 

Bohannon says he still like Trump’s chances of winning a second term but does say his biggest threat probably will come from a familiar face to the American people.

 

 

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

Shelby County Health Department To Host Immunization Clinic

Shelby County Health Department has announced they will be hosting walk-in immunization clinics. The clinic will be held on Monday, August 5th from 8-11:30 and from 1-6 PM. The clinic will also be on Tuesday, August 6th from 8-11:30 and from 1-3:30 PM. The clinic will be open to children from 3-16 years old. Supervising Nurse, Jennifer Beeson says the clinic is important.

 

 

Beeson says there are no appointments and that there must be consent forms signed.

 

 

For more information call 774-9555 or visit www.shelbyhealth.net.
 

Meridian Superintendent Resigns, Under Investigation

The Meridian Board of Education announced on Friday that Superintendent Dan Brue has resigned. Regional Radio News has learned that Brue is under investigation from the Macon County Sheriff’s Office.  Brue resigned on Friday, July 26th. He stated in his letter “I apologize for putting the district in a poor light and hope that the district can move on from this ordeal.” Regional Radio News reached out to both the school district and sheriff’s office and they declined to comment on the issue. Although in a statement received from the school district, it says, “The Board will work diligently to move forward from this departure.” 

Mental Health Class Held At Taylorville Memorial Hospital

Taylorville Memorial Hospital held a mental health first aid course last week. Suzy Traughber, the mental instructor taught the eight hour class that was held on July 25th. Traughber taught the class to ten students to teach them about handling mental health patients during a crisis. This is the third year that this class has been taught and Traughber says it’s about education.

 

 

Traughber has some good news though if you live in the city of Taylorville.

 

 

For more information on the course contact Melissa Thomas at 824-1601 or email her at thomas.melissa@mhsil.com or visit Taylorville Memorial Hospital’s Facebook page.

 

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