The Taylorville Kiwanis Club and Hospital Sisters Health System

(HSHS) Medical group office staff in Taylorville teamed up to collect and donate supplies to be used for students in the coming school year. 

The project was initiated by the HSHS Taylorville staff that wanted to provide some assistance to teachers and nurses. The items collected included tissues, disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer, items that are normally purchased out of pocket by the teaching staff. 

Kiwanian Martin Vota was made aware of the effort and contacted HSHS, offering support from the Taylorville club. HSHS sought assistance with distribution of the items collected by their employees. When club members learned the effort was to

assist the local schools and children, they also donated items to the cause. 

Taylorville Elementary School nurses gratefully accepted the supplies, expressing their appreciation for the support that Kiwanis and HSHS has for the community. More projects are in the works partnering these two groups.

CAPTION TO PIX:  Pictured L to R: Taylorville Elementary School nurses Susie McClure and Jenny Moats, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Chris Dougherty, Katie White with H.S.H.S., Taylorville Kiwanis Club Secretary Martin Vota, Taylorville Kiwanis President Rev. Michael Evanchak.

Shannon Moon with the Moultrie County Inter-Agency Council says that the work that they do has two parts to it. First, they accept financial donations to help the less fortunate in the area.
 

Moon went on to discuss what it is that she does with the Inter-Agency Council.

Finally, Moon talked about the need for donations.

Moon appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Citizen’s Center.

Habitat for Humanity is an organization that has done a tremendous amount of wonderful things not just throughout Central Illinois, but around the world and Tara Reed is the Manager at Habitat for Humanity ReStore and she said that they’re currently looking for donations.
 

Reed went on to discuss what they’re currently looking for.

Finally, Reed listed off some of the items that you won’t be able to donate.

Reed appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Citizen’s Center.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary has wrapped up another babysitting clinic on October 25th. Fourteen different students were taught how to care for an infant and were trained in CPR and other life saving tips for sitters along with snacks and other ways to care for youngsters. The class was one day and was led by School Resource Officer Bryan Thomas and Firefighter Nick Zepin.  Each babysitter was given a graduation certificate for their hard work in the class.

For information on the next babysitting clinic or to get on the waiting list contact the hospital at 824-1601 or email TMHContact@mhsil.com. 

Adopting a pet is a big commitment and Jill McDevitt, board member at Genesis Animal Rescue discussed what it is exactly that differentiates them from other animal rescue organizations.

McDevitt discussed how it is that they handle the adoption process.

Finally, McDevitt said that even after the animal is adopted they still feel responsible for them.

McDevitt appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Citizen’s Center.

Reading is important, but reading to newborns is extremely important. In this day and age of technology and digital advancements, Doctors and Hospitals everywhere are encouraging now more than ever to read to your children. In an effort to help parents, Memorial Medical Center in Springfield is giving away free books to each baby born at the hospital starting in November.

Eric Carle, who is the author of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar, will have five different titles available for parents. 1,500 copies have been given to Memorial Hospital. Diane Rutlege, who is the Board of Directors for Memorial Health and Memorial Medical says that reading builds the foundation for a healthy and productive life. Rutledge previously served as the superintendent of Springfield School District. 

The books were funded by Friends of Memorial Medical Center and the titles are, “My Very First Book of Colors,” My Very First Book of Words,” My Very First Book of Numbers,” “My Very First Book of Shapes,” and “My Very First Book of Animal Sounds.”

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from several Christian County C-E-O students, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the club’s new meeting place, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

C-E-O stands for “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities”.  The program guides Christian County high school seniors that are enrolled in the program, through starting and running their own functioning business.  The program also cultivates essential skills and an expansive, long-lasting network of community members and business owners.  Enrolled students attend class each school day from 7:30 til 9 in the morning, at different non-school locations thru-out Christian County.

Those appearing and speaking about the program, the business tours they’ve done so far this year, and their upcoming November 2 Murder Mystery Theatre and Dinner, were Gabriel Jeffrey, Kennedy Mann, James Boettger, Joey Curvey, Emily Leers, Paris Bell, and Laine Moses.  Escorting the students to the Kiwanis Club meeting, was C-E-O facilitator Dick Adams.

Moses talked to the club about the business tours they're done so far this school year.

Jeffrey talked about preparing to start their own business as part of their class.

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 their new meeting location, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

A couple updates to Regional Radio News. Due to the impending weather, the Village of Strasburg has rescheduled their Trick or Treat night – it will be held on Friday, November 1st from 6-8 pm.

Also according to Roger Swim, the Pana Lions Club from 5-6:30 will be both inside and outside of the Eagles Club in Pana along with the 72nd Lion's Club Halloween Parade. 

Computer Techniques is expanding again. The computer company is going to be expanding to ten new locations including; Coffeen, Edinburg, Fillmore, Irving, Litchfield, Owaneco, Pana, Raymond, Stonington, and Witt. The expansion marks the biggest undertaking for the young company moving forward. Adam Vocks, Vice President of CTI, says this has been a long time in the making.

Once Vocks and President Billy Williams got down to 10 they couldn’t break it down anymore. Vocks says having the support of the community goes a long way to what CTI does and the vision set forth by Vocks and Williams and the whole staff at CTI.

Vocks says that since the process has changed from doing 1 or 2 at a time to doing ten at a time, it means that there are a lot of moving parts and a lot of processes that still need to be figured out.

Construction is expected to begin in Summer of 2020.

WTIM and People’s Bank and Trust in Taylorville have announced their students of the month for October. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes.

The Students of the month are: Freshman Cole Paulek; Sophomore Keely Andrews; Junior Weston Erlenbush; and Senior Talia Moffet

Congratulations to our Honorees from Regional Radio News!!!!

L - R:  Peoples Bank and Trust Representative Lindsay Lopian; Freshman Cole Paulek; Sophomore Keely Andrews; Junior(not pictured Weston Erlenbush): Senior Talia Moffet

October Student of the Month; Junior Weston Erlenbush 

The following Halloween times have been reported to Regional Radio News. As always leave a porch light on If you are participating. If you have a Halloween time for a city not on here, please let us know! 

--Altamont Oct 31 6-8 PM

--Assumption Oct 30-31 6-8 PM

--Blue Mound Oct 30-31 6-8:30 PM

--Clinton Oct 31 5-8

--Kincaid Oct 31 6-9 PM

--Moweaqua Oct 30-31 5-8 PM

--Pana Oct 30-31 5-8 PM

--Shelbyville Oct 31 5-8 PM 

--Strasburg Oct 31 6-8 PM

--Sullivan Oct 31 4-9 PM

--Taylorville Oct 30-31 5-8 PM

--Tower Hill Oct 30- 31 5-8 PM
 

The American Red Cross is in desperate need of blood donors and Laura McGuire, the Bio-Med Communications Manager for the American Red Cross encourages everyone that is able to donate blood to do so.

McGuire went on to say that the need for blood is constant at hospitals.
 

Finally, McGuire discussed what it is exactly that they put you through before you are able to donate.
 

If you’re interested in becoming a blood donor, please visit their website, redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. That’s 1-800-733-2767. McGuire appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

The Illinois Department of Transportation, along with Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies are encouraging you to drive sober for Halloween. Data shows that as of October 25th, traffic fatalities around the state are down by 56 from the same time as last year. ISP Acting Director, Brendan Kelly, says just don’t do it. “Getting a DUI will haunt you forever,” He says, “Whether it’s a pumpkin or a driver, getting smashed ruins Halloween.”  ISP has some tips for having the best SAFE Halloween. Designate a sober driver. Either call a cab, use a ride-sharing service, or take a taxi, or call a friend. Use a designated driver program. If you do see an impaired driver on the road, pull over and call 9-1-1. If you see an impaired person trying to drive, take their keys and help them get home safely, and make sure everyone in your vehicle wears a seat belt and children are secured in a car or booster seat.  

Life’s Journey Senior Living is a company that specializes in taking care of older adults who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia, or any other form of memory loss. They have communities located in Mattoon, Paris, Pana, and Taylorville. Connie Young, Regional Sales Director with Life’s Journey discusses what it is that they do at Life’s Journey Senior Living.

Stephanie Dilley is the Executive Director and Director of Nursing at Life’s Journey Senior Living and she discussed what it is exactly that sets them apart.

Finally, Young discussed the important topic of memory care.

Young and Dilley appeared as guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show. 

Injuries from carving pumpkins may seem like something that would never happen to you, however, in 2017 more than 3,000 people were hurt carving pumpkins according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.  Kristy Gorden with HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital in Shelbyville says pumpkin carving can be fun, as long it’s done in a safe manner.

Gorden says they have safety kits that you can use that are safer and to use battery operated lights, not candles to prevent fires.

For more information on safely carving pumpkins visit https://www.consumerreports.org/halloween/pumpkin-carving-safety-tips/.  

Senate Bill 667 has passed the Senate Committee. The bill which has been sponsored by State Senator Andy Manar would put a cap on copayments for insulin at $100 per month for ALL patients regardless of the supply that they would require. The cap would only apply to commercial insurance plans regulated by the state. The legislation was approved 15-3-1. Manar says he is excited that the committee did its job.

Insulin prices have slowly been rising, and the drug cost has tripled in price between 2002 and 2013. Out of the 1.3 million Illinoisans living with diabetes, one in four with diabetes are forced to ration their insulin due to soaring costs. Only Colorado currently has a cap on what insulin costs can be. They also have copays of $100. The bill will be presented to the Senate later this week.

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a  burglary and criminal damage that occurred in Taylorville. Sometime during the early morning hours of Friday, October 25th 20019, person or persons unknown broke out numerous windows at a residence located at 926 West Market Street. The unknown subject or subjects also broke into the residence and damaged walls and items inside. The total dollar amount of the damage is unknown at this time.  Please contact Crimestoppers if you have any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons. Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest and you do not have to give your name. Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week.  You can contact Crimestoppers at 824-9100, at their website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274637) and then your tip. As always, you will remain anonymous.

Taylorville Police and Fire are trying to clear up debris after a pickup truck overturned in front of the Walgreens On Webster Tuesday morning. Details are just emerging, but Dunn's Ambulance was on the scene and a tow truck was working on overturning the pickup truck. The road is still closed off by Police in front of the Walgreens. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more updates.

Us Air Force Air National Guard Airman 1st Class Heath A. Harms graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. 

Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Harms is the son of Cheryl J. Harms of Pana, Illinois

He is a 2013 graduate of Pana Senior High School, Pana, IL. He earned an associate degree in 2018 from Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield.

We here at Regional Radio News salute you Airman 1st Class Harms!

Shelbyville Author and retired History Teacher Kevin Corley has written four different books. He just released a brand new book. It’s entitled “13 Steps for Charlie Birger.” Corley discussed his writing process and why he writes his books a little bit different than most.

If you’re interested in attending an event hosted by Corley, here are some of the events that he has coming up.

Finally, he discussed where you can find all of his books.

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

With Halloween coming, many parents may worry about potential food allergies with candy, chocolate, and peanuts. In fact 1 out of every 13 children in the US has a food allergy. HSHS Good Shepherd in Shelbyville along with the Food Allergy Research and Education Organization is working on a way to be able to help children who have food allergies have a safe Halloween. It’s called the Teal Pumpkin Project, and it’s designed to encourage people to raise awareness of food allergies during the Halloween Season. Kristy Gorden, Marketing Specialist with HSHS Good Shepherd says that food allergies are on the rise and this helps all children. 

Helping the community helps kids not have to visit the hospital and that’s a plus in Gorden’s eyes.

For more information on the Teal Pumpkin Project, visit www.foodallergy.org/education-awareness/teal-pumpkin-project/. 

Pastor Steve Switzer from Calvary Baptist Church in Taylorville discussed their upcoming Trunk or Treat event that will take place on Halloween Night.

Switzer also discussed some of the food that will be available at the event.

Finally, he discussed why exactly they decided to do this event every year.

The event is on Halloween night, Thursday, October, 31st from 6:00-8:30 at Calvary Baptist Church in Taylorville. For more information, you can visit cbctaylorville.com. Switzer appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

With the winter months coming, and cold weather on the horizon, safety in the winter is extremely important. Illinois State Trooper Travis Molloy, Safety Education Officer, says that winter safety starts with inspecting your vehicle.

Molloy says that as always, but especially in winter, it’s so important to move over for vehicles that are stopped on the side

of the road.

Area Temperature lows are supposed to drop below 30 by the end of the week.

Debbie Johnson, the volunteer coordinator at Taylorville Memorial Hospital discussed the upcoming Holiday Extravaganza.

There will be a bake sale, raffle, and vendors in the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium. Lunch will also be served. Johnson went on to say that they’re still looking for vendors.

The gift shop will be open as well and it will be loaded with Christmas items for sale.

The event is Friday, November, 15th from 10-5 and Saturday, November 16th from 9-1 in the Auditorium. For more information, you can visit taylorvillememorial.org. Johnson appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

The Park District met on Monday evening and one of the big topics of discussion was on bids for the excavation for the north pond. The Board knew they weren’t going to be making any decisions that evening, but the bids were announced in the order that they were received. Bids ranged from the lowest being Aldridge at $48,397 to $197,500 from Phil Tullis and quite a few bids inbetween. Overall around 7 bids were received for excavation. The board will take their time to figure out which one is the best one for the actual project.  There is still a lot of work left on the project. The car that is in the south pond was talked about. Superintendent Gary Brown says that they will eventually try pulling the car out, but it’s going to come out piece by piece by piece. They will not be able to pull out the entire vehicle at one time. It would just fall apart. Tim Mathis who is with the company Ameren made a presentation to the board. He announced that Ameren owns property that is next to Manner’s Park. There is considerable contamination from a CIPS (Central Illinois Public Service) Manufacture Gas Plant which created manufactured gas to heat homes, and other uses. Those uses caused contamination and Ameren is concerned that underground contamination seeped under Manner’s Park. The proposed agreement would build 3 wells onto Manners park in order to collect samples and data. The board said they would need to speak to an actual engineer who could answer more of their questions. 

Recreational Director Bailey Hancock says that the rescues this year were down to 5 which is significantly lower than when Hancock started.

Hancock talked about some of the activities coming up including Christmas in the Park.

The next Park District meeting will take place on November 25th.

The yellow is the proposed sites for the well locations.

This is what the wells would look like.

The Miller Media Group has scheduled a service outage on Wednesday afternoon at 2. A receiver connector on a cable at our Taylorville Tower site, that receives audio from our Park Street studios, has to be replaced.

As a result, WTIM AM 870, WSVZ 98.3 and New Country 104.1, will be off the air Wednesday afternoon. All of WTIM’s FM and online platforms will remain on the air. WMKR Genuine Country 94.3 and WRAN groovy 97.3 will both be on backup signals covering the immediate Taylorville Area.

It’s expected that the outage will take no more than 2 hours. 

Thank you for your understanding as we repair and replace equipment at our Taylorville Tower site. 

Us Air Force Air National Guard Airman Jessica F. Mathias graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. 

Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Mathis is the daughter of Adam and Catherine Mathias of Taylorville, Illinois.

She is a 2019 graduate of Taylorville Senior High School in Taylorville.

We here at Regional Radio News salute you, Airman Mathias!

Us Air Force Airman Marissa P. Cravens graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. 

Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Cravens is the daughter of Teri A. and step-daughter of Clayton W. Stinson of Pana, Illinois.

She is a 2019 graduate of Pana Senior High School in Pana.

We here at Regional Radio News salute you, Airman Cravens!

Erica Linn is the Executive Director of the Shelbyville Villas of Hollybrook and she discussed some upcoming events Fall events in Shelbyville.
 

Jennifer Snow with the Shelbyville Candy Run gave some of the history of the event.

And if you’re around Shelbyville on Halloween you can stop by the Villas of Hollybrook with your kids to pick up some candy.

The Costume Contest starts at 5 and the Candy Run starts at 6 on October 30th in Downtown Shelbyville. Linn and Snow appeared as guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our station in downtown Shelbyville.

A new screening for lung cancer could save people's lives. At least this is the hope, as screenings for lung cancer can be done for people that have smoked most of their life. Early detection is always key and Naomi Wands, community cancer education coordinator, says that screenings can be done now in ways that could never be done in the past. 

Wands encourages anyone that wants this screening to check with your Primary Doctor about the new screening.  

For more information on the screening visit www.lung.org/our-initiatives/saved-by-the-scan/.
 

Sarah Massey is a Nurse Practitioner with HSHS Good Shephard and she discussed the Shelbyville Medical Clinic and when you will be able to see her at the clinic.

Massey went on to discuss what she specializes in at the clinic.
 

Finally, Massey discussed how you can contact her office.

Massey was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our station in Shelbyville.

A special celebration for bosses day earlier in the month resulted in quite a surprise for CTI. President Billy Williams and Vice President Adam Vocks were taken aback when they were invited for a “presentation” which turned out to be a proclamation from Mayor Bruce Barry proclaiming the day of October 16th as CTI Day in Taylorville. Vocks says that the staff always try to do something nice for them but he never expected this.

Vocks says this isn’t the first time that the staff at CTI have surprised them.

Vocks says he and President Billy Williams can’t thank their staff enough for all their contributions.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry says that the proclamation was for recognizing the company’s immense dedication to serving the community. 

Derek Hayden and Garrett Ulmer are both insurance risk advisers with Shelbyville Insurance and they discussed three different myths that people have when it comes to insurance. Ulmer said that the first myth is that every insurance agency is basically the same.

The second myth, according to Derek Hayden, has to do with premium increases after a natural disaster.

The final myth according to Garrett Ulmer has to do with the color of your car.

Hayden and Ulmer were guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from our station in Shelbyville.

The Taylorville Police Department is warning against a sudden outbreak in people with “fake guns” or even lesser-used guns like B.B. or pellet guns. TPD is not saying you can’t have them but more of just to be on the alert that this is going on. Officer Alan Mills of the Taylorville Police Department says that these guns can pose a danger as police have gotten some calls about this going on.

Officer Mills wants to avoid a situation where police may think that a person has a real gun or weapon, or someone else that may react if they think you have a real gun or weapon especially if that other person has a conceal/carry permit.

If you have any questions please contact the Taylorville Police Department.
 

The City of Taylorville has announced when all of their trunk or treats are taking place. This list is not exclusive. Please check with your local chamber of commerce to find out when trunk or treats are taking place in your area. Today Trunk or treat will take place at Landmark of Taylorville from Noon till 4 PM. The Taylorville Police Department and Fire Department are doing their Monster Bash at the Taylorville Fire Department from 4 PM until 7 PM.  On Sunday Trunk or treat will take place at First Presbyterian Church in Taylorville from 4 PM until 6 PM. On Sunday, October 27, the Spooktacular Trick or Treat will be at Davis Memorial Christian Church from 4 PM until 6 PM. On Wednesday, there will be trunk or treating at the Moose from 5 PM until 7 PM. Also on Wednesday, Trunk or treat will take place at Crossroad Apostolic Ministries from 6 PM until 9 PM. On Halloween, Trunk or Treat at Landmark of Taylorville from 4 PM – 7 PM. Trunk or treat will also take place Halloween night at Calvary Baptist Church from 6 PM – 9 PM. And on Saturday, November 2nd, E-Free Church Harvest Fest will take place from Noon until 3 PM. For any questions, check with your organization's Facebook page, or contact them. If you have a trunk or treat that you'd like us to post about, please send Regional Radio News an Email at wtim@randyradio.com.

--Saturday, October 26, Trunk or Treat @ Landmark of TVL 12p - 4p

--Saturday, October 26, TPD & TFD Monster Bash @ TVL Fire Department 4p - 7p

--Sunday, October 27, Trunk or Treat @ First Presbyterian Church TVL 4p - 6p

--Sunday, October 27, Spooktacular Trick or Treat @ Davis Memorial Christian Church 4p - 6p

--Wednesday, October 30, Trunk or Treat at the Moose 5p - 7p

--Wednesday, October 30, Trunk or Treat @ Crossroad Apostolic Ministries 6p - 9p

--Wednesday, October 30, Trunk or Treat @ Meadow Manor 6p - 8p

--Thursday, October 31, Trunk or Treat @ Landmark of TVL 4p - 7p

--Thursday, October 31, Trunk or Treat @ Calvary Baptist Church 6p - 9p

--Thursday, October 31, Trunk or Treat @ Cricket Wireless in TVL 4p-6p

--Saturday, November 2, E-Free Church Harvest Fest 12p - 3p

Lincoln Land Community College of Taylorville is hosting a visit day for prospective students and their parents. Dee Kruger is the Director of Lincoln Land Community College of Taylorville and she told us what can be expected at the event.

Krugger talked about what types of classes they are able to offer if you attend Lincoln Land Community College of Taylorville.

Finally, she discussed an upcoming Food Drive that they’ll be hosting at LLCC.
 

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

Memorial Medical Center in Springfield will be hosting a free event for everyone to talk about lung cancer and what treatments, prevention, and signs/symptoms of lung cancer are. The program is called “Shine a Light on Lung Cancer” begins at 6 PM on the MCLI’s second floor in room 2A. The program is two hours long. Naomi Wands, community cancer education coordinator says that November is lung cancer awareness month and that this class is to help put your mind at ease about lung cancer and just what people who face that cancer are up against.

Along with Dr. Traves Crabtree and Dr. Stephen Hazelrigg, who are both with the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Wands says there will be other speakers there as well.

Wands says the class does more than just teach you about lung cancer awareness. It also recognizes those that have fought lung cancer and those who are taking the fight to it each day.

For registration visit memorialmedical.com/events or call 217-588-6254.

The Christian County YMCA is hosting the 31st Annual YMCA Auction, Hat’s Off To The Y.” The event is scheduled for Friday, November 8th at the Pillars Event Center in Taylorville. If you’re interested in attending the event, you need to register by October 30th. Christian County YMCA Executive Director Chris Whittenhiller gave some more details about the event and talked about the events long history.

The event will be catered by Angelo’s Catering.

Finally, Whittenhiller gave details and talked about the history of silent auction and live auction.
 

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

The NEWSTALK WTIM Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry "Big Smile For the Community" for October is being awarded to Suzy Traughber. Traughber has helped with Dinners Seasoned With Love” as well as Operation Backpack. Traughber thanks everyone for all their support and says if you want to help, volunteering is the way to go.

Traughber thanks a lot of her family for her getting started with both programs.

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

Jeff Durbin, a member of the Executive Board of the Taylorville Chamber of Commerce discussed the upcoming CEO Murder Mystery event.

He also mentioned an upcoming Trunk or Treat event that’s a must attend event if you have any kids.

Finally, Durbin discussed what it is exactly that they do at the Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.

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

While Moultrie County will be doing a drug prescription take-back program on Saturday, Taylorville Police Department will also be doing one as well. This Saturday marks the Prescription Take Back Day as police departments around the United States will be taking your expired drugs and prescriptions and with no questions asked disposing of them properly. The Taylorville Police Department will be at Walgreens from 10-2 on Saturday. Officer Alan Mills with the Taylorville Police Department says this is a way to get rid of your prescriptions that you don’t use anymore. 

Mills says there are no questions asked with this. You can drop off the pills either in a bottle or remove the labels. 

Mills says the DEA has a way that they do it to make sure the proper procedures are taken care of to get rid of the medication the right way.

For more information on this visit the Taylorville Police Department Facebook page.

State Senator Andy Manar (Bunker Hill-D) has announced that the district will see more than $357 million dollars towards funding for road and bridge projects between now and 2025. This all stems from the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Multi-Year Improvement Program. The program, which was a main talking point for Governor J.B. Pritzker when he was running for election, will start as early as next Spring with nearly $23.5 Billion dollars put into the project itself. Senator Manar says this is a cooperative measure from both Democrats and Republicans.

In just District 48, over 110 infrastructure projects will be completed over the next six years. 17 of the 110 are slated to begin next year. Senator Manar is happy with the way that the money is being spent. 

Senator Manar says this goes well beyond just fixing roads. It also gives jobs and increases economies.

The program is nearly double what last year’s budget was after budgeting for the increased motor fuel tax. You can see all the Rebuild Illinois projects in the 48th Senatorial District, by clicking the link here. 

Stan Spark with the United Way discussed how once Fall rolls around, it’s time for them to start fundraising.

Spark went on to discuss the important relationship that the United Way has with the American Red Cross.

Spark appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Citizen’s Center.

Trees Forever alongside Missions for Taylorville will be replanting trees that were damaged in the December 1st tornado Saturday, November 2nd. Barb Grabner Kerns says they need all the volunteers they can get to help with planting trees throughout the city of Taylorville.

Kerns says that the job is pretty simple. A group will plant trees while another group comes behind and puts the mulch down.

Kerns says she is grateful for all the support and help that they have received in planting these trees and the donations and generosity. 

Kerns is hoping for good weather and looks forward to seeing everyone at the U of I Extension Office on November 2nd at 9 AM. 

Laurrie Minor, the Director of the Sullivan Chamber of Commerce recapped a very successful October Fest.

Minor went on to discuss what they’re looking to do with October Fest next year.

Minor appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Citizen’s Center.

Moultrie County is working together with multiple agencies to sponsor a one-day “drug take-back” event this Saturday, October 26th. The event will run from 10 AM until 2 PM at the Moultrie County Health Department. Moultrie County Health, along with Moultrie County Counseling Center and New Vision, Inc. of HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital in Shelbyville, and the DEA are putting together this event. The event coincides with National Prescription Take-Back Day.  Glenda Plunkett, Public Health Services Coordinator for Moultrie County says this is a good way to turn in your prescriptions that you don’t use or are expired.

Plunkett says having pills just laying out may seem like candy to little ones and it’s safer to get rid of it. 

At one point the belief was that you could just flush your old medication, but Plunkett says you shouldn’t do that anymore. Water treatment plants can’t handle it.

Since 2010 the DEA has collected over 11 million pounds of prescription drugs nationwide. For more information on the drug take-back program visit their website at www.moultriehealth.org or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/moultriecountyhealth. You can also visit the website, takebackday.dea.gov.

Secretary of State Jesse White wants to remind Illinoisans that the federal REAL ID mandate takes effect on October 1st of 2020. For Illinois residents who fly domestically, in order to do so, you have to use a valid U.S. passport or obtain a REAL ID from the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office. There are some things to remember with the REAL ID. You don’t need a REAL ID if you have a valid U.S. Passport, military ID, or other acceptable identification from TSA. If you don’t fly domestically or visit secure federal facilities, you don’t need one either. 

If you do want a REAL ID you need to bring proper documentation which you can find online at www.realid.ilsos.gov.  That documentation includes one document providing identity, one document proving your social security number, and two documents proving residency in Illinois, and one document with a signature. You can still use your regular ID to fly until October 1st, 2020.  After that, though you will need your REAL ID. You can get more information on the REAL ID at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s website at dhs.gov/real-id-public-faqs.

Jack Myers, the Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration discussed the Supplemental Security Income program and the difference between Social Security and the SSI programs.

Myers went on to discuss how having a plan for achieving self-support can help you remain eligible for SSI while you’re starting a new job or business
 

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

U.S. Air Force Airman Devin J. Rhoades graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. 

The Airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Rhoades is a 2017 graduate of Pana High School in Pana, Illinois.

We here at Regional Radio News salute you, Airman Rhoades!

Meggann Bell, the CEO of the Christian County Development Corporation discussed what it is exactly they do and the fact that they’ve gone through some changes recently.

Bell went on to discuss some of the changes that she has implemented as the new CEO of the Christian County Development Corporation.

Wendi Rensing, the Home Ownership Coordinator with the Christian County Development Corporation went on to discuss the brand new Homeownership program that she’s been working to implement since starting in March.

Bell and Rensing appeared as guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

This year’s Poster, Poetry, and Prose contest sponsored by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is looking for fifth and sixth graders to compete. This year’s theme is “Algae: The Good, The Bad, And the Ugly; How can you keep your pond healthy.” This theme focuses on how algae affect water, how to prevent pollution, and how to maintain healthy water ecosystems. Each school can enter up to eight works including posters and written documents. All entries must be postmarked and sent in by February 3rd of 2020. Judges will select the finalists, while those entries will be judged by a completely different set of judges to determine the top 12 winners. All finalists including families and teachers will be invited to an awards ceremony on April 18th at the Old State Capital site in Springfield. The participants will then be invited to attend Springfield’s Earth Awareness Fair.  All exhibits will be on display in the atrium of the Illinois EPA’s Headquarters in Springfield in April and May with the best ones being featured on Illinois’ EPA website. For more information on this visit Illinois’ EPA website at www.2.illinois.gov/epa/ or by emailing Kristi Morris, environmental education coordinator at kristi.morris@illinois.gov or contacting her at 217-558-7198.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the club’s new meeting place, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Joe Crain (right) is the museum’s new Director of Public Programs and Community Development, and spoke to Kiwanis Club members about the many things the campus in Springfield offers to the public.  Kiwanis president Sarah Van Huss (left) presided at today's meeting.

Crain said the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, now 15 years old, is a unique approach to story-telling, with its many exhibits that show Lincoln at different times in his life.

 Crain added the campus is two-fold:  The museum which tells about Lincoln’s life, and the Lincoln Presidential Library which includes over 172-thousand books and documents dating back to the late 1880’s.

Crain told the Kiwanis Club that an on-going project is called “Lincoln Papers On Line”, whereby Lincoln’s thousands of presidential documents and letters are being preserved then scanned to be available on the World Wide Web.

Kiwanis member Martin Vota (right) was formally presented with his “Kiwanian of the Year” plaque by former president Michael Evanchak (left).

Kiwanis member Tim Sutton (right) was honored by Kiwanis president Sarah Van Huss (left) for his 40 years of membership in the club.  Kiwanis officials had found a 25-year plaque presented to Sutton in 2004, which she presented to Sutton on Tuesday marking his 40th anniversary in the club. 

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 their new meeting location, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

Many people struggle when it comes to losing weight. John McQuillan, the Fitness Wellness Manager at Pana Community Hospital discusses an upcoming event that can help you get motivated to start you on your weight loss journey.

The event will take place on November 7th from 5-6 pm at the Pana Junior High School auditorium. There will be a guest speaker that you will not want to miss.

McQuillan said that starting with an exercise program is the best way to get your weight loss journey started.
 

John McQuillan was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry discussed the proposal to build 48 additional Hathaway Homes in Taylorville

This project has many potential benefits according to Mayor Barry.

Finally, Mayor Barry discussed the tornado recovery and the upcoming 1 year anniversary of the Taylorville Tornado.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

October can be a scary month. With Halloween right around the corner, some scares are all in good fun, but others are very real.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp talks about a very real fear during this time of year.
 

Some of the more popular safety tips are to make sure children wear reflective clothing and they are supervised while trick or treating. Sheriff Kettelkamp shares some other helpful tips that you might not think about.
 

In the spirit of being prepared, Sheriff Kettelkamp says it’s important for children to be able to say ‘No.’

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

The Taylorville City Council held its bi-monthly meeting on Monday evening and discussed business for over an hour. Aside from the cannabis vote that ended up being tabled which you can read about here, there were quite a bit of other discussions that happened as well. The Hathaway Houses were approved to go to the next phase of planning.  The city approved payments for the sidewalk project for the First National Bank with funds from the Fifth Fund Utility Tax Ward money. Alderman Shawn Burtle and Jim Olive expressed their gratitude and publicly commented that they hoped this would be a start towards expanding and beautifying the downtown area. Lake Lot Lease Fees were increased $50 for a total of $550 per season.  Campground Lease Fees of $70 for a total of $805 per season or $115 per month was approved 8-0 by the Aldermen.  Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry said in his comments that the council can listen to both sides and reach an agreement. He also had a message for the Aldermen concerning revenues.

A motion was also put forward to approve Tornado Siren Relocation. City Attorney Rocky Romano explained why they needed to approve it.

Megan Bryant who leads the ordinance committee recommended the city council to direct the city attorney to prepare an ordinance to allow for No Parking signs located in the first three parking spaces of the 100 block of West Franklin Street from 8 AM 3 PM Monday through Friday. The city also approved a motion to amend the city code to allow a two way stop sign at the intersection of the 800 block of North Silver and Pauline Streets.  This would effectively make this a four-way stop. A motion was also approved to recommend approval for beginning the formal legal process for the demolition of 215 East Park Street and a motion to approve increasing the fee for all liquor/gaming license holders to $3,000 per year with the exception of Clubs.  This motion passed 8-0.  The city also thanked Mike Crews and honored his service to the city. Mayor Bruce Barry announced that Matt Adermann as acting Fire Chief. Mayor Barry hopes to have a new Fire Chief announced in November. Tommy O’ Brian and the Junior High Cross Country team was honored at the City Council Meeting as well.

The Taylorville City Council met this evening, and one of the big topics of discussion didn’t even get voted on. Earlier in the year, the City Council voted on a city tax on cannabis IF the city was going to allow the sale of it. Tonight, the motion that was on the table was centered around an earlier ordinance committee meeting, where most city council members were against it. This motion was that the city aldermen would vote NO on cannabis being sold in the city of Taylorville. City Attorney, Rocky Romano advised the council to table the motion.

Aldermen Ernie Dorchinecz and Lee Lanzotti put the motion into effect to be tabled. The council wasn’t allowed to discuss it since it was a tabled motion. The motion passed 5-3 in favor of tabling with Aldermen Megan Bryant, Larry Budd, Ernie Dorchinecz, Lee Lanzotti, and Jim Olive, voting yes on tabling it and Aldermen Shawn Burtle, Chris Skultety, and Kathy Driskell voting no. Alderman Shawn Burtle was puzzled as to why the council voted on something earlier that the majority of the council was eventually going to say no too. He questioned City Attorney Rocky Romano in the public comments section of the meeting.

Romano explained that the Illinois Municipal League had most cities put forward the motion for taxing cannabis with the understanding that if cities opted out they could just rescind it. Alderman Burtle said it just seemed like a lot of extra work for nothing. Burtle didn't understand the need for tabling the motion.

The motion will get sent back to committee for more discussion on whether or not Taylorville will allow cannabis to be sold in the city. Even if the city is allowed to sell cannabis most likely it wouldn’t be for quite a few years, as cities that already sell medical marijuana would have first priority.

It’s a season of frights all around the country as Halloween draws near. There will be an opportunity for a fright or two coming up with the Trail Haunt in Shelbyville.

Abby Hinton with Trail Haunt explains what it is, and how they scare with good intentions.

As with any scaring event, knowing what will happen defeats the purpose. Hinton says they avoid that by changing things up from year to year.

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

One of Shelbyville’s biggest events is coming up quickly. It’s called the Festival of Lights. Bill Bly is the Operations Director of the event, and he explains what it is and what to expect.
 

This year it’s more than just a lights display. Bly says there has been work put in to animate a lot of things on the drive.

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

With Halloween coming it may seem strange to talk about healthy eating, but there are ways that you can eat healthily and still have a great time. Lisa Peterson, nutrition and wellness expert with the University of Illinois Extension Office says that the key to eating around Halloween in moderation.

Peterson says there are other ways other than candy to make Halloween fun as well.

Peterson says there are other things that you can do to be healthy for Halloween as well. One idea is to have the kids sell their candy to the grownups in a way to save for something they want.

Peterson says that keeping candy out of sight or putting it on a high shelf, will help limit how much kids eat at one time.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which is something that might go unnoticed, but it shouldn’t.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says that domestic violence is very prevalent in Christian County, and he as some staggering statistics.

Anyone can be subject to Domestic Violence as a victim or perpetrator, and it isn’t always physical. Sheriff Kettelkamp says there are many different forms domestic violence can take, and there are many signs to watch out for.
 

Sheriff Kettelkamp understands that it is a tough situation, but he says that the best thing to do is to report domestic violence.

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

HSHS Good Shepherd will be getting a new family nurse practitioner to the orthopedic center.  Sarah Massey began practicing on October 15th. She will see patients twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays. Massey says she is excited to be there.  

Massey says it’s nice to be able to be closer to her patients.

Massey also wants to thank Dr. Tracy Painter, who will be Massey’s collaborating partner.

To set up an orthopedic appointment call 217-774-4405. the clinic is in the medical office building at 207 South Pine Street in Shelbyville.

The Taylorville City Council will meet this evening at 7 PM at the municipal building. One of the main topics will be a motion to not allow the sale of recreational use cannabis in the city. There will also be a motion to approve the Tornado Siren relocation. Another big topic of discussion will be a motion to approve the increase of Lake Lot Lease Fees of $50 for a total of $550 per season and campground Lease Fees of $70 for a total of $805 per season or $115 per month.

Under committee meetings, in water and environmental, construction payments for the new water treatment plant will be authorized. For the Lake and Airport, real estate lease agreements will be resolved. A motion will be voted on to have someone inspect the cabins for repairs needed and approving applications for boat dock and jet ski lifts. Under ordinance, there will be a motion to amend the city code for no parking signs located in the first three parking spaces of the 100 block of West Franklin Street from 8 AM- 3 PM Monday through Friday, a new stop sign at the intersection of the 800 block of North Silver and Pauline Street, and an increase for the fees for all liquor/gaming license holders to $3,000 per year with the exception of clubs for the May 1, 2020 renewal. There will also be finance motions as well. 

The city will honor retiring Fire Chief Mike Crews and name an acting Fire Chief. The city attorney and mayor will both have updates, and a volunteer of the month will be recognized. 

A Palmer man was sentenced on Thursday afternoon for aggravated battery to a child. 20-year-old Darrel Hunter Sanders was sentenced to 18 years with three years of mandatory supervised release, the maximum that the state asked for.  In court, Special Agent with the Illinois State Police, Deanna Horton talked about her interview with Sanders, in which he first said that sometime between February 15th and the 19th that the one-month-old squirmed out of his hands and fell and hit a music box in her play area. After more of the interview, Horton testified that Sanders said there were 3 more incidents as well including one where the baby pinched Sanders' neck and Sanders was surprised and dropped the baby who hit the metal strip separating the rooms. Horton also testified that Sanders confirmed that his emotions got the best of him and that he was covering it up because he didn’t want people to think he was a bad father. Sanders also said in his interview that he was alone with the child each time and that it was intentional and on purpose. State Attorney Mike Havera, says that he is pleased with the sentence.

Havera went on to say that they always confirm with the families as well.

Sanders will have to serve at least 85% of his sentence.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that one person was killed in a train-vehicle car accident in Taylorville. Thursday evening at 9:33 PM, Christian County Sheriff’s Office received a call of a vehicle/train crash on South Shumway Street at the crossing near West Calvert Drive. A 2019 KIA Sportage was northbound on South Shumway Street when the crash occurred.  The driver, 52-year-old Pamela J. Mcpherson of Blue Mound was transported from the scene to Taylorville Memorial Hospital. Christian County Coroner, Amy Calvert Winans confirmed Pamela McPherson was pronounced dead at 11:03 PM. The Christian County Sheriff’s Office along with the Christian County Coroner’s office is handling the investigation. Coroner Calvert Winans said an autopsy is scheduled for later today. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more updates.

October is National Apple Month and that means it is time to spread the word about the fruit in the spotlight.

Nutrition Wellness Educator with the U of I Extension Office Lisa Peterson is doing that by sharing why an apple a day really can keep the doctor away.
 

Moderation is key, but with caramel apples being in season that isn’t as bad as it may seem.

Apples can also be killers to other fruit when left in a refrigerator, Peterson explains why.

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

A Group of Shriners and Masons from Central Illinois is heading down to St. Louis to donate money towards the St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Greg Gadberry, who is spearheading this effort talks about how this whole thing came together.

Gadberry says that this is just something that he feels they need to do.

Gadberry says the group will meet in Taylorville at Wit’s End on Saturday before they head down to St. Louis.

Gadberry asks that you pay attention to motorcycles on the road. The group leaves from Wit’s End in Taylorville Saturday morning around 9 AM.

There are events happening all over the Taylorville area. One of the upcoming events is being put on by the local CEO students.

CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Patty Hornbuckle explains what to expect from the upcoming CEO Murder Mystery Night.
 

While Hornbuckle hasn’t attended a murder mystery event before, she hears only good things about them. 

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

For students to get a well-rounded education, teachers can’t teach if the student isn’t at school. Dr. Chris Dougherty, Superintendent of Taylorville School District says she’s worried about student attendance levels in the Taylorville School District.

Dr. Dougherty says that the State is very interested in attendance levels, and while there are plans in place for when kids do miss, the Superintendent says that any more than 4, and they can look at truancy.

Dr. Dougherty says while attendance is slightly down, she says it’s an exciting time to be a Tornado.

According to the Illinois State Board of Education, in 2016-17, Taylorville School District had a 93% attendance rate.

The Christian County Animal Control will be hosting a Pet Parade called the Bark-A-Boo.  The event will be held on Saturday, October 26th from 10-1. Vince Harris, with animal control, says this is an event that will feature some of the best looking cats and dogs in Christian County.

Harris says there will be plenty of vendors there with food, raffles, and other giveaways as well. 

Harris says they will have awards for best dressed for dogs and cats. Harris says for more information you can visit their Facebook Page at Christian County Animal Control.

Fall festival season is in full swing and Sullivan is no different. They will have their Octoberfest this weekend, and it starts tomorrow.

Laurie Minor details some of the events going on at Octoberfest.

On Saturday morning there will be a pancake breakfast at the Fire Department, which is something Sullivan Mayor Richard Glazebrook is looking forward to.

Glazebrook and Minor appeared as guests on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from the Moultrie County Senior Citizens Center.

Education takes a village because every person has their own small part in creating success among students. That extends into the families of the students as well. Superintendent of Sullivan Schools Ted Walk talks about an event they just hosted called Grandparents Night, and the success it had.

Sullivan schools are always open to adapting and improving. One way they’ve done that is in their handling of parent-teacher conferences, which are coming up soon.

Walk also talked about some upcoming events for the middle school.
 

Walk appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning show live from the Moultrie County Senior Citizens Center.

The Taylorville School District met Monday evening for their monthly board meeting. Regional Radio News sat down with Superintendent Dr. Chris Dougherty to discuss the Taylorville School District and everything that is going on. Dr. Dougherty put out some communications, thanking those who have helped or provided good deeds to the School District including honoring Tyson Mendoza, the child that was killed in the bus accident in Sullivan.

The School board also honored Stephen Turner who was recognized for his board leadership at the recent IASB Regional Fall Dinner.  The school also had a successful college and career night as well.

Taylorville School District also had its audit and discussed it at the board meeting. Dr. Dougherty says things are in good order.

Dr. Dougherty also says that they are improving the playground at North Elementary.

Dr. Dougherty says they are going to start working on the playground right away.

Things are hectic in Washington right now as legislators are just getting back to the Capital. Something that is a major source of turmoil is happening overseas.

Congressman Rodney Davis represents the 13th District of Illinois and he says President Trump might have made a mistake with how he handled the events in Syria.

Moving forward there will be action regarding Syria. Davis outlines what he thinks that will be.

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

Many people turn to sports in an effort to get away from politics, but due to ongoing protests in Hong Kong against the Chinese, the NBA has found itself at the forefront of political talk. Jim Bohannon, host of the Jim Bohannon Show on Newstalk WTIM says that the NBA may have bitten off more than it can chew.

Bohannon says a lot of these issues start with the NBA commissioner, Adam Silver.

Jim Bohannon was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Macon County Conservation District will be hosting an annual candlelight tour at Homestead Prairie Farm on Saturday, November 9th. Brent Wielt, who is the Historic Sites Manager says they have been doing this for over 15 years.

Wielt says to dress warmly as there are stoves, but you can see what a night in the 1860s would have been like in November in central Illinois.

Wielt says the session goes from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM and he says the best time is to come after 7:30.

For more information visit the maconcountyconservation.org. Homestead Prairie Farm opens for tours every Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 PM in June through October. The site includes an heirloom vegetable garden, herb garden, and a woodworking shop. 

All the talk in Washington is focused on the impeachment inquiry of President Trump. That will be in the news for awhile longer.

Jim Bohannon, host of the Jim Bohannon show, says that the impeachment vote is not what democrats want. In fact, it could mean them losing majority in the House.

Bohannon says that the purpose of this inquiry is simply to tarnish the Presidents name enough so voters avoid him when it’s time for re-election.

In the past there have been three other impeachment inquiries, Bohannon says that while this current inquiry may not have ground to stand on, that doesn’t make it less threatening.
 

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

With all that is going on in Washington D.C., it’s making for some tricky times as legislators head back to the Capital.

Congressman Rodney Davis represents the 13th District of Illinois and he says he is ready for whatever will come along with the impeachment inquiry.

Should this impeachment inquiry stand, Davis says it creates a dangerous precedent.

President Trump's entire administration has been under a microscope, and that is a major factor to how things to this situation. Congressman Davis simply wants answers to the hypocrisy.

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

The Illinois Pharmacists Association honored State Senator Andy Manar for his work with local pharmacists in Illinois. Manar has ushered through legislation that has positively impacted pharmacies in rural areas of the State. Manar, who is a Democrat from Bunker Hill, says that the rising costs associated with prescription medication are hurting consumers and he is working hard to fix it. In 2017, Manar fought for the creation of Illinois’ Critical Access Pharmacy Program. This program provides support to small business owners to help keep pharmacies open. Manar has also pushed through legislation to impose regulations on pharmacy benefit managers. Without regulations, it drives up the cost of prescription drugs. Pritzker signed it into law in August. Regional Radio News has already talked with Senator Manar about his work with preventing insulin costs from skyrocketing. Garth Reynolds, who is the executive director of the Illinois Pharmacists Association says that he is proud to have someone working hard for pharmacies and patients. Senator Manar along with State Representative Greg Harris were awarded the 2019 Honorary President Award.

The Taylorville Fire Department and Police Department are teaming up this year for a Monster Bash.  The bash will be on Saturday, October 26 from 4-7 PM at the Taylorville Fire Department which is located at 202 North Main Street. Officer Kirsten Bolinger with the Taylorville Police Department talks about some of the food, festivities, and fun.
 

Officer Bolinger says that they are still looking for volunteers to help out that evening.

For more information visit the Taylorville Police Department Facebook page.

The Christian County Board met at 6:30 Tuesday evening and what started off as a normal board meeting quickly got interesting, as the discussion over a part-time maintenance project coordinator came to the forefront. Chairwoman Becky Edwards says that while this position would probably not include any laborer work it was still important and a necessity for the county.

After much debate and discussion, an amendment was pushed through to make the position a 20 hour a week position, with up to a $22/hr salary. This position would be a 6-month position when after that time it would be reevaluated. This temporary position would not offer a pension or other benefits. This all comes from an overworked staff who is busy trying to make repairs for the courthouse. Board member Dale Livingston spoke about some of the issues affecting the courthouse. 

Becky Edwards also gave her thoughts on the courthouse repairs.

Bruce Engeling and Mike Crews were recognized for their hard work dedicated to the county. Engeling did not make the meeting, but Chief Crews was there and thanked the members of the board. Both men received a standing ovation. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about Taylorville’s new Industrial Park from a long-time community leader, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the club’s new meeting place, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Ken Hart has been the long-time president of the Taylorville Development Association, and outlined his group’s efforts to establish a new Industrial Park just off Illinois Route 29 on Taylorville’s northwest side.

Hart told Kiwanis Club members that Taylorville’s efforts to build an industrial park date back to 1953 when a for-profit corporation was formed locally.   It built and maintained the first industrial park, located on South Spresser across from the Airport.

Hart added that mine subsidence was discovered in the 1980’s at that location.  It was sold and a new non-profit corporation, the Taylorville Development Association, was formed.  

Hart said that it wasn’t until 2008 when T-D-A purchased over 80 acres on Taylorville’s northeast side from Archer Daniels Midland, or A-D-M, only to discover that the Taylorville Sanitary District couldn’t provide adequate sewer service to the location.

In 2013, Hart told the Kiwanis Club that the T-D-A traded the A-D-M property, for 97 acres between Illinois Routes 29 and 104, which is the present site.  51 acres were sold with 47 kept.  Monies raised from the selling of a portion of the present property, enabled T-D-A to win a 537-thousand dollar infrastructure matching grant from the Economic Development Administration in December 2017.

Since that time, Hart told the Kiwanis Club, the T-D-A has been working on utility easements, and permits from the Illinois Department of Transportation.  Those IDOT permits, Hart said, were approved in July of this year.

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 their new meeting location, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital will be hosting a free event that will teach the public how to handle real-life bleeding situations. “Stop The Bleed” will be offered on Tuesday, October 22nd. The session will run from 4:30-6 PM in the Janice Hopper Auditorium at TMH. Enrollment is limited to just 20 participants. That is because they will receive a free bleeding control kit courtesy of the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation. Laura Polley who is with Taylorville Memorial Hospital says that this program will help you learn what to do in case you are in a real-life situation, where you might need to stop someone from bleeding out like a car accident or a mass casualty incident. Lukas Schneider who is with the TMH Emergency Department says that an injury can cause someone to bleed out in 5 minutes and life-threatening injuries can happen to anyone at anytime and that this course will teach you how to save yourself or someone else. The event is open to the public and no medical background is necessary. Attendees are asked to dress for active participation and to register. You can register at taylorvillememorial.org/events.  For more information call the hospital at 217-824-1601.

The popularity of buying local food has been on the rise. While farmer’s markets might be the first thing you think of when wanting to join that trend, that isn’t the only way to get involved.

Registered Dietician with the St. Louis District Dairy Counsel Jill Williams says that milk is the original local food, and it can be found in grocery or convenience stores.

Williams says you can even track any carton of milk you buy back to the farm it came from.
 

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

Due to the Columbus Day holiday, the Taylorville Community Unit School Board of Education Meeting will take place tonight at 7 PM. After roll call and hearing from any visitors, there will be an announcement on the student/staff donations for the family of Tyson Mendoza. Minutes from the September 9th and 24th meetings will be approved. There will also be a treasurer’s report and consideration of personnel. In old business, the transfer of Stonington Building to the park district has been completed, and there will be a recap of a strategic planning session including focus, goals, committee structure, and timeline. Under new business, there will be a presentation of the fiscal year 2019 School District Audit with Adam Mathias, a CPA from Lively, Mathias, Hooper, and Noblett. There will also be a facilities update, which will consider a request from Tom May for a donation for the Stonington parking area, considering a request from maintenance to transfer mulch out and other material in for the North School playground to increase safety.  This is at an estimated cost of $13,000 which is included in the budget. There will be an executive session and a superintendent report as well. Everyone is welcome to attend. The meeting will be located at the Administration Education Center which is located at 512 West Spresser Street in Taylorville, Illinois.

In just a couple of weeks legislators will gather in Springfield for the Veto Session. This is a time to review things vetoed by the governor, but this time around there are only eight bills to look at.

Illinois House of Representatives member Avery Bourne represents the 95th District, she explains why there was such a low number of vetoes.

State Representative Bourne has also been assigned to the new Firearm Task Force.

In terms of firearms, there is a geographic divide in the state of Illinois. State Representative Bourne explains how that might play out in the new task force.

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

The Christian County Board will meet this evening for their monthly board meeting. Bruce Engeling and Mike Crews will be thanked and recognized for their service to the County. The committees will also present their reports for motion, approval, denial, or tabling. The Highway, building grounds, environmental, zoning, and welfare committee met on October 7th. They will talk about courthouse updates, animal control updates, review zoning fee schedules, discuss maintenance departments, hiring of part-time staff and purchasing of previously owned vans, highway updates, and adopting a drug and alcohol abuse policy due to a change in vendors. The executive, personnel, liquor, and legislative committees met on October 10th. They will discuss and refer to the finance committee for the position of a part-time maintenance project coordinator. The auditing, financial, purchasing, and budget committee met on October 2nd. They will discuss and review the proposed fiscal year 2020 budget which includes non-bargaining salaries and changes or adjustments. The audit, finance, purchasing, and budget committee also met on October 10th. They will discuss approving October claims as presented, recommend bond documents with Christian County Integrated Community Services and refer for a maintenance vehicle replacement, part-time maintenance project coordinator, and temporary courthouse building maintainer, recommend to put FY 2020 budget on file for adoption in November, second claims period and any other referrals. There will also be new business, mileage, and per diem reports, minute approval and Chairwoman reports. The meeting will take place at 6:30 tonight on the second floor of the Christian County Courthouse.

The tree recovery program will be coming soon, and Gwen Podeschi with the Master Gardners of Christian County is excited about this. She says that there is still a serious need for replacement trees after the December 1st tornado. Podeschi says the city of Taylorville has lost about 150 trees.

Podeschi is also excited for some new trees that have been donated for people’s yards.

Podeschi says the work to replacing the trees has already started.

Gwen Podeschi was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

ISP is investigating a fatality in Montgomery County. ISP District 18 troopers responded to investigate a fatal single-vehicle crash on South East Road 130 feet north of the intersection of Elevator Street in the city of Farmersville in Montgomery County. At approximately 6:18 PM on October 13th, a black 2005 Chrysler Town and Country van was traveling northbound on South East Street.  The van left the roadway to the left and struck an awning and 2 parking posts of a nearby building.  The driver was pronounced deceased on scene by the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office. The driver was identified as 48-year-old Ben W. Pope of Raymond Illinois.  His passenger who refused medical care was identified as 54-year-old Charles R. Mackay, also of Raymond, Illinois.  No further information is available at this time. 

More details have come out about the 1977 Buick that was found in the South Pond at Manners Park on Friday morning. In fact, the story has a little bit of closure. Officer Alan Mills with the Taylorville Police Department says that thanks to the license plate, they were able to figure out quite a bit about the car and just how it found itself at the bottom of the pond. 

Officer Mills says it’s fine to walk down there and look at it, but the area is still very muddy.  So muddy in fact, that they are still trying to figure out a way they are going to get the car out of the pond.

The case is fairly closed but if you do have any additional information, you are encouraged to contact Detective Rob Thomason or the Taylorville Police Department. 

Mammograms are important for women. This is the message that the Taylorville Memorial Hospital and other hospitals and clinics are trying to promote. One way that they are doing that is by giving away free mammograms to underinsured and no insured people.  Mary Jo Coady, says that while some hospitals are giving away free mammograms only on Monday, TMH is doing them Monday through Friday.

TMH is not the only hospital doing free mammograms though.

TMH Auxiliary also has a lot that they do to promote Mammogram Mondays. Raedena Ryan who is with the Auxiliary explains there help with the program and the CUPS program.

Mary Jo Coady and Raedena Ryan were guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Through many tears of joy and congratulatory hugs and somber moments, four people finished up their problem-solving court commencement Friday afternoon at Davis Memorial Christian Church in Taylorville. Judge Brad Paisley led the ceremony and thanked everyone for their hard work saying that problem-solving court is not easy.

Probation Supervisor Ann Wolfe warned the participants that recovery is hard, but the probation office was there to help.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp informed the group that recovery is the most important step for them.

Regional Radio News wants to salute the following graduates of Problem Solving Court: Joe Cushing, Joshua Lynch, Dylan Russell, and Kelsey White.

Leroy Kleimola, a news and sports reporter for the Miller Media Group in Taylorville, was named this week as the company's "Employee of the Quarter" for the third quarter of 2019.

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

Kleimola received a 100-dollar bonus from the company, and his name will be put into a drawing for a Florida trip which includes airfare and car rental.

While the south pond at Manners Park continues to drain slowly, the Taylorville Park District got the shock of their life Friday morning when they found a car. The car looked to be from the late 1970s but had an 80’s sticker on the license plate. The Taylorville Police Department are working on running the license plate to see if they can find out anything about the license plate or the vehicle itself. The Taylorville Fire Department busted the back window of the car in an effort to pull some of the mud and debris out of it and to look for anything that may remain inside. While there was nothing found in the back seat or the passenger seat, there is still too much mud left in the driver's side to see if anyone was in the driver's seat, so the Fire Department and Police Department have to wait for the water levels to go down a little further. Sources within the Fire Department told Regional Radio News, they don’t believe there is anyone in the car but it is still too early to tell. The next part of the process is to figure out how to get the car out of the pond. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more updates.

Tonight, the Taylorville Tornado Football game will be on New Country 104.1 at 6:45 with Leroy Kleimola, due to Cardinal Baseball on Newstalk WTIM. 

The Scarecrow Daze in Shelbyville live broadcast will be on Newstalk WTIM The Big 870,96.1 FM in Christian County, 107.5 FM in Shelby County, 107.7 FM in Moultrie County, due to EIU Football on WMKR and WSVZ on Saturday from 10 AM until 1 PM.

The 2019 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest is now in the rear-view mirror. It was a great event and CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Patty Hornbuckle has so many people to thank for making it successful.

One of Hornbuckle’s greatest takeaways is that the event brought joy to those who attended,
 

Now that Chillifest is over, Hornbuckle says the focus shifts to the LEAD program.
 

The LEAD program is open to anyone, but with the meetings being on Wednesdays it poses a potential issue. Hornbuckle explains why that, hopefully, won’t be a problem.
 

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

With all the talk about Wind Farms in Christian County, whether you are for or against them, you definitely know that it is a hot topic, especially if you’ve ever attended a County Board meeting where it’s been debated. Katya Samateskul, Manager in renewable energy development over wind and solar projects in Illinois and Indiana for Invenergy, stopped by the WTIM Morning Show to let everyone know just what wind farms bring to Central Illinois in other aspects, such as jobs.

One area of jobs that will come is in the operations sector.

At the end of the day Samateskul says Invenergy loves Christian County and it’s residents.

For more information on Invenergy, visit their offices in Pana at 101 East Second Street. 

State Senator Andy Manar represents the 48th District of Illinois. He is gearing up for the upcoming veto session, and he explains what that is.
 

Manar is very passionate about the Insulin Cap Bill, and that stems from a call he got that, in his mind, solidified the need for the bill.
 

Megan Blair is a citizen who has been sharing her story of struggle paying for insulin. Manar says the voice of the people is going to be the best tool lawmakers have to get things done.
 

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

Pana Community Hospital Auxiliary is hosting a holiday bazaar at Pana Junior High School on Saturday, November 9th, from 9 until 1 PM. With over 40 homemade craft vendors and a luncheon, marketing director Melissa Rybolt says this is an event that everyone looks forward to every year.

There are also cinnamon rolls and coffee at 9 AM and jumbo pecans as well. Rybolt says there will be a raffle as well. And with shopping at the bazaar you help local businesses as well. 

The Pana Community Hospital Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar will be at the Pana Junior High School which is located at 203 West 8th Street in Pana and for more information visit the Auxiliary's Facebook page.

The Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will be hosting a golf outing on Saturday, October 19th at Lakeshore Golf Course.  The golf outing will be a “Glow” golf outing with glow in the dark golf tees and balls. Lead Coordinator Shay Broux says the event is going to be a fun night with money going to a good cause.

Debbie Johnson is hosting the event and is still looking for sponsors and golfers and all proceeds go towards helping the Auxiliary’s pledge for support of medical equipment. Broux says you can check out Lakeshore Golf Course Website for more information. Registration can be done that day or earlier.

Lakeshore says that it’s limited to the first 48 golfers, which means 12 groups of 4 so Broux encourages you to act now and secure your spot for the 9 holes of golf and the dinner.  Contact Debbie Johnson at 824-1677 with any questions.

Winners from last Sunday’s Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest kiddie tractor pull, have been released.

In the 3-and-4 year old category, first place winner was Drew Sample, second place winner was Prim Cyrus, and third place winner was Hudson Woodrun.

In the 5-and-6 year old category, first place winner was Matthew Wayman, second place winner was Remi Fleming, and third place winner was Griffin Morgan.

In the 7-and-8 year old category at Sunday’s Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest Kiddie Tractor Pull, first place winner was Avery Woodrun, second place winner was Joslyn Stephens, and third place winner was Charlee Ryan.

And, in the 9-and-10 year old category, first place winner was Griffin Gregory, second place winner was Brock Walton, and third place winner was Bryce Belsher.

The annual event was sponsored by Larry’s Service Center and again emceed by Larry Barry.  The Taylorville F-F-A again assisted in the event.

Different people give back to their communities in different ways. Anybody can use their skill or passion to give back. Debbie Preston has found her niche in the world of quilting and uses that to make a difference.

There is a special type of quilt that Preston makes for people that deserve it and occasions that call for it. She calls it the ‘Magic Quilt’.

Each Magic Quilt comes with a signature poem written by Preston.

Preston appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from the Moultrie Country Senior Citizens Center.

There is a proper way to dispose of prescription drugs, but many people don’t know how. Flushing them down the toilet might seem efficient and harmless, but it can hurt the local water supply.

Angela Hogan, Administrator with the Moultrie County Health Department, talks about their upcoming Prescription Take Back Day.

Even if you can’t make it to the Prescription Take Back Day, Hogan explains how you can dispose of your outdated or unused drugs.
 

Hogan says the next Take Back event is coming up.
 

Hogan appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from the Moultrie Country Senior Citizens Center.

A longtime Board Member of the Taylorville Community Credit Union has retired. After 32 years Mike Kennedy has decided to move on and give up his tenure. Kennedy has been with the TCCU Board since 1987. Will Perkins, President of TCCU says this is a big loss.

Perkins says what makes losing Mike particularly hard, is that this wasn’t a paid position and to be on the board takes a lot of dedication the Credit Union itself and that’s something Mike gave day in and day out.

Perkins marveled at how different technology was 32 years ago when Mike came on.

Mike Kennedy’s last board meeting was in September, and Perkins hopes to have a new member of the board announced relatively soon.

The YMCA Predators Swim Team has received word that they will have sponsorship this year from Computer Techniques Incorporated or CTI for the 2019-2020 season. This sponsorship will decrease the financial burden of meet entry fees for participants and their families as well as provide needed equipment and supplies for the team. YMCA Aquatic Coordinator and Swim Team Coach Melissa Brookens, says she can’t thank CTI enough.

Brookens has seen the swim team grow from 6 swimmers in 2006 to now having 36 on the team ranging from 1st- 12th grade.  Brookens goes on to say every swimmer swims for a purpose and this helps so many families that have kids who can’t do other sports. 

There is still time to have your child join the swim team.

For more information on the YMCA Swim Team call the YMCA at 287-7271.

Adam Vocks Vice President from CTI delivers a check to Melissa Brookens YMCA Swim Team Coach and Aquatic Coordinator

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is hosting an event Wednesday evening from 6-7:30 PM on the Opioid Epidemic: How We Got Here and Where To Go Now.  Dr. Ashley Howard and Dr. Kari Wolf from SIU Medicine are presenting. Wolf is the associate professor and chair of the department of psychiatry and Dr. Howard is the assistant professor for the department of family and community medicine.

The Dr’s will be hosting a discussion that will trace phases of opioid epidemics in the US and around the world, highlight the role the medical community plays in the current epidemic, discuss future directions for combating abuse and discuss integration of treatment into the primary care model and support for recovery in a rural environment. The event will be at the Janice Hopper Auditorium at 201 East pleasant Street. Guests are encouraged to use the Emergency Department Entrance.

Light refreshments will be available and this is a free community event.  Registration is encouraged but not required.  Dr. Howard and her husband will be starting their practice in Taylorville later in October and plan to offer medication assisted treatment for individuals with substance use disorders. For more information visit TaylorvilleMemorial.org or call 824-1601. 

A Taylorville man who was facing child pornography charges in Christian County has now been charged in Federal Court. After having 12 counts charged against him in Christian County, Todd M. England was indicted on 2 counts of child pornography by a Federal Grand Jury. The charges in Christian County were dropped on Tuesday with news of incoming charges from the Federal level.

The 45 year old England was originally arrested on April 3rd without incident and transported to Christian County Jail. He had a $75,000 bond that he had posted. That bond was returned to him, and the GPS was removed as he is now facing these Federal Charges.  England lived on the 1000 block of Cheney Street. He will be in Springfield Federal District Court on October 29th at 11 AM. 

Both Charges are A Class X felony which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of six years and a maximum sentence of 30 years. It is also punishable by a fine of up to $25,000. 

A Health And Safety Fair is coming to Pana.  Pana High School in partnership with the Pana Community Hospital will be hosting the 16th annual children’s health and safety fair on Saturday, October 26th from 9 AM until noon.  Marketing Director, Melissa Rybolt says this event has something for everyone.

The event will have plenty of activities for the children that will be there and there is always something new you can learn.

Rybolt says there is a free health check for Parents as well that will include blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.

For more information visit the hospital’s website or Facebook page.

43 raffle prize winners were drawn at the conclusion of the 2019 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chilifest on the square Sunday afternoon.

The complete winners list can be found by clicking the “2019 Raffle Winners” icon at the event’s web site, chillifest-dot-info, that’s chillifest with 2-L”s.

Winners can claim their prize at the Chamber office on the 2nd floor of the U-S Bank building on the south side of the Taylorville square, during business hours Monday thru Friday.

42 raffle prizes were donated by local businesses, and a 500-dollar gift certificate toward a gun purchase at Collections of Professions, was also drawn Sunday afternoon.

The 2019 Chillifest was the 34th consecutive year for the Taylorville event.

The Safe Passage Program is something that Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler has brought to Taylorville after seeing results with it in Kincaid.

Taylorville’s Safe Passage Coordinator is Denise Evans. She explains what makes this program such a successful one.

Chief Wheeler is confident in the program, and says that there are already some differences in the community.
 

Evans and Wheeler appeared as guests on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show

The weather so far this year has been fairly unpredictable. Between longer cold spells, constant rain, no rain, and even summer temperatures in September, it’s been hard to know what to expect.

Chris Miller, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service, said the month of September was on average 5 to 7 degrees warmer in Central Illinois than last year. Now that the temperatures are dropping, Miller explains the difference between a frost and a hard freeze.
 

The peak storm season may be in the Spring, but that doesn’t mean strong storms won’t hit during fall and winter.

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

The Pana Community Hospital along with the Fitness and Wellness Program will be hosting a Join the Journey event on Thursday, November 7th for the public. John McQuillan, who is the Fitness and Wellness Manager, says that with the program celebrating its tenth year, PCH will have some special guests at its “Join the Journey” event.

McQuillan also says there will be plenty of activities not just for grownups but for children as well.

For more information visit the Live Well PCH Facebook page, or the Pana Hospital website as well.  The event will take place Thursday, November 7th from 5-6 PM at Pana Junior High Auditorium.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about Youth Protection Training for Kiwanis members, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the club’s new meeting place, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Kiwanis International now requires all Kiwanis Clubs to go thru this training so that children and youth at Kiwanis events are safe.  

Former Taylorville Kiwanis Club president Michael Evanchak presented the training information to the club, citing that Kiwanis International has some 335-thousand youth members around the world.  Evanchak noted to the club, that local Kiwanis Club members that work with youth in community projects, have a background check which is good for 2 years.  

And, Evanchak also reviewed the medication, transportation, and social media policies as it pertains to children and youth the local Kiwanis Club serves.

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 their new meeting location, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

A massive house fire has shut down traffic on the 400 block of Park Street in Taylorville. The fire broke out around 11 AM and spread quickly throughout the house. Both Taylorville Fire and Police helped control traffic and the blaze. Fire Chief Mike Crews said there were occupants inside but they were able to get out of the house in time. Workers from Ameren were working to shut off power to the building, so firefighters could work on controlling the fire. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more updates.

Pana Pride is an organization that is constantly working to improve the Pana community and drive business into Pana. Recently, they’ve started on a new project with that goal in mind.

Melissa Rybolt, President of Pana Pride, explains why the Neighborhood Demo Fund came about.

The process of removing abandoned homes is not easy. Rybolt says it is a long process, and the fund will help with resources.

There isn’t going to be an overnight change, it’s going to take awhile. The estimated cost to tear down an abandoned property is $5,000-$7,000, which might seem like a lot, but Rybolt shares the math on why it isn’t as much as it seems.

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

The Optimist Club has picked their member for the 2019 year. Terry Wright has been named the Optimist Club member of the year picked by his peers. Steve Switzer, says it’s such an honor to have Wright with the Optimist Club and all the hard work that Wright brings.

Switzer says anyone interested in joining the optimist club can find more information on their website, www.taylorvilleoptimist.com.

The Taylorville Optimist Club was founded in 1965.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is looking for artwork for the new facility. The hospital is looking for local artists to submit their work for consideration. Marketing consultant, Allyson Phillips says that the hospital is looking for all kinds of different artwork.

Phillips says if you are a local artist looking to submit your work, visit their website.

All artwork selected will be properly stewarded as a donation through the TMH Foundation. For more information email info@artexpressions.com.
 

The Taylorville City Council met this evening to discuss new business and go over committee meetings. Mike Mann was sworn in as Superintendent of Street and Sewer and John Blakeman was sworn in as Human Resource Manager. Mann says he is excited about his job and what he can bring to the city.

John Blakeman, Appointed as new Human Resources Manager 

Mike Mann Jr sworn in as new Street Sewer Manager.

Office space was approved for the city for the Safe Passage Program. Alderman Megan Bryant says this is an extremely important decision that will help Taylorville. 

Chief Wheeler encourages those who want to help to make monetary donations, as that is the way this program is funded. A motion was approved to authorize the resignation of Fire Chief Mike Crews. Alderman Shawn Burtle expressed his gratitude towards Chief Crews and his hard work for the city of Taylorville. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry stated that he hoped to have a new Chief for approval at the next City Council Board Meeting. Ron Nicol also resigned from the Board of Fire and Police Commission.  Mayor Barry thanked everyone for a great Chillifest. Approval also went through for repairs to the roof at the Fire Station. The discussion continued over the sewer issues. Burtle commented that he was concerned over the cost of the project and that it was too open-ended. City Attorney Rocky Romano assured Burtle and the Board that payment would not happen unless the Board approved it. There was also a discussion on the new water treatment plant. Aldermen Larry Budd wanted to know what the status was on the old building and why work hadn’t been started on the dirt works portion and Burtle said there are rules and stipulations as far as making sure the new plant is up and running for a certain period of time before the old plant can be torn down. The city also forwarded approval to the Ordinance Committee for no parking signs located in front of the Menta Academy Cornerstone Taylorville School. During the public comment section, a few Taylorville citizens mentioned that they were worried about the sewer project and that there had been septic issues and didn’t want the company working on the issues to abandon them and leave them unfixed. Burtle assured the gentlemen that this wouldn’t happen. The next City Council meeting will take place on October 21st. 

The Christian County Pee Wee Basketball Board was recognized as volunteers of the month.  Signups start in December.

State Senator Andy Manar will be hosting a senior resource fair. The fair will be Thursday October 10th between 10 and 12 PM at the Christian County Senior Citizens Center located at 701 West Adams Street in Taylorville. The event is free and open to the public. The event will feature on site driver's license renewals, information on saving money for utility bills and more. Service and Health Caqre providers, state programs and local groups will be there to answer questions and provide information. There will also be free and discounted health screenings. For more information contact Senator Manar's Office at 618-585-4848

The Taylorville City Council will hold their first October meeting this evening. There is a lot of business that will be voted on tonight since there was an extra week in September. Among other things, the finance committee will be discussing approval for repairs for the roof and brick seam at the Taylorville Fire House. The Street and Sewer committee will recommend "No Parking" signs put up on the 100 Block of Franklin Street, West of South Main, from the hours of 8-3PM, Monday through Friday in front of the Menta Academy Cornerstone Taylorville School.  The Street and Sewer committee will also recommend a 2-way stop sign be placed at the intersection of North Silver/Pauline.

The sewer projects on Rich Street from Houston to Elevator/Elevator Street from Rich to England and MOrton Street from Adams Street to Vandeveer Street. There will also be discussion on money from some of the other wards going towards it.  Emergency Services will put forth a motion to purchase 32 SCBA Cylinders from MES Municipal Emergency Services. The cylinders help firefighters breathe and are in need of replacement.

Mike Mann Jr. will be sworn in as Superintendent of Street and Sewer and John Blakeman will be sworn in as Human Resource Manager. There will also be motions to accept the resignations for Fire Chief Mike Crews and Ron Nicol,from the Board of Fire and Police Commission. A motion will also be pushed through to accept Robert Besson to the Board of Fire and Police Commission as well. There will be a ordinance authorizing office space lease for the Safe Passage Program and city attorney and Mayoral updates as well. The City Council Meeting will take place at 7 PM at the Municipal Building in Taylorville.

Lake Shelbyville has quite a lot of activities available to keep you occupied as the weather gets a little cooler. Ashley Florey with the US Army Corps of Engineers says that the new bump track is sure to turn a head or two. 

There are some new trails to get you to the new mountain bike trails as well. 

Florey says she’s impressed with how quickly the new tracks were put together.

Florey appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from our Downtown Shelbyville Studios.

The Macon County Conservation District will have a new executive director. Paul Marien who has been with the Macon County Conservation District for over 40 years and served as the executive director for the last four years is retiring. Marian says he is ready to move on to the next chapter in his life.

Marian says he’s going to miss the staff and services that he provides for the community.

Marian encourages people to come out and use the free facilities.

The public are invited to a retirement open house on Wednesday, October 9th between 4 and 6 with a special presentation at 4:30. 

Winners were announced Sunday in the International Chilli Society Central States Cook-off, at the 2nd day of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.

In red chilli judging, first place winner was Julie Netser who won 750-dollars, a banner, and the right to cook at the I-C-S World Championship.  Second place was Jim Weller who won 200-dollars and a certificate.  Third place was Mike Goodman who won 100-dollars and a certificate.

In homestyle chilli judging, first place winner was Helen Lewis who won 300-dollars, a banner, and the right to cook at the I-C-S World Championship.  Second place was Mary Cannon who won 100-dollars and a certificate, while Julie Netser won third place and earned 50-dollars and a certificate.

In verde competition at the I-C-S Central States Cook-off at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest, first place winner was Lloyd Weir who won 300-dollars, a banner, and the right to cook at the I-C-S World Championship.  Second place was Lauren Ray who won 100-dollars and a certificate, while Bob Hall won third place and earned 50-dollars and a certificate.

In veggie competition, Lloyd Weir won first place earning 100-dollars, a banner, and the right to cook at the I-C-S World Championship.  Second place winner was Mike Goodman who won 30-dollars and a certificate, while Josh Zeman won third place and earned 20-dollars and a certificate.

In the “People’s Choice” competition Sunday at the Greater Taylorville Chillifest, George Rives won in the red chilli category, Helen Lewis the homestyle, Lloyd Weir won the verde category, and Mike Goodman won the veggie competition.  Each will have their entry fee paid to the 2020 competition.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  People’s Choice Award winners in I-C-S chilli judging were announced Sunday in day 2 of the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest.  Back row from the left:  Tom Calvert, I-C-S Central States Cook-off Chair; red chili winner George Rives; homestyle winner Helen Lewis;  2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal;  verde winner Lloyd Weir; veggie winner Mike Goodman; and Amy Calvert of the Chamber Chillifest Committee.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips. 

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Verde winners in the I-C-S Central States Chilli Cook-off were announced Sunday in day 2 of the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, I-C-S Central States Cook-off Chair; 3rd place winner Bob Hall; 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal;  first place winner Lloyd Weir; 

and Amy Calvert of the Chamber Chillifest Committee.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips.   Second place winner Lauren Ray was not available for the group picture.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Homestyle chilli winners in the I-C-A Central States Chilli Cook-off were announced Sunday in day 2 of the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, I-C-S Central States Cook-off Chair; 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal; third place winner Julie Netzer; second place winner Mary Cannon; first place winner Helen Lewis; and Amy Calvert of the Chamber Chillifest Committee.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips. 

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Red chilli winners in the I-C-A Central States Chilli Cook-off were announced Sunday in day 2 of the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, I-C-S Central States Cook-off Chair; third place winner Mike Goodman; 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal; second place winner Jim Weller; first place winner Julie Netzer; and Amy Calvert of the Chamber Chillifest Committee.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips. 

CAPTION TO PIX 5496: Veggie chilli winners in the I-C-A Central States Chilli Cook-off were announced Sunday in day 2 of the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, I-C-S Central States Cook-off Chair; second place winner Mike Goodman; 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal; first place winner Lloyd Weir; and Amy Calvert of the Chamber Chillifest Committee.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips. Third place winner Josh Zeman was not available for the group picture.

Winners were announced the Lil’ Chilli Bean “Cutest Baby” contest Sunday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.

The contest was a “People’s Choice” contest, with votes counted by the amount each baby’s jar had it in at the end of the contest Sunday afternoon.

First place winner was Briella Jo Kennedy, the 8-month-old daughter of Kaylee Richards of Taylorville, who won a 100-dollar Chamber gift certificate.  Second place winner receiving a 75-dollar Chamber gift certificate, was Reed Allen Uhrich, the one-month-old son of Patrick Uhrich of Taylorville.  Third place winner was Elaine “Lainie” Skinner, the 3-month-old daughter of Taylor Landers of Taylorville, who won a 50-dollar Chamber gift certificate.

This year’s Chilllifest Lil’ Chilli Bean Contest was again organized by Jane Hunsche, and again sponsored by People’s Bank and Trust.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Winners in the Lil’ Chilli Bean “Cutest Baby” contest Sunday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest were, from the left:  Elaine “Lainie” Skinner, the 3-month-old daughter of Taylor Landers of Taylorville, who won a 50-dollar Chamber gift certificate; Reed Allen Uhrich, the one-month-old son of Patrick Uhrich of Taylorville, who won a 75-dollar Chamber gift certificate; Briella Jo Kennedy, the 8-month-old daughter of Kaylee Richards of Taylorville, who won a 100-dollar Chamber gift certificate; and Lil’ Chilli Bean Contest organizer Jane Hunsche.

It was a weekend full of competition at the Capital City Cornhole Club held 2 days of sanctioned bags tournaments at the 2019 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.

In competition Saturday, some 2-thousand dollars in prize money was on the line, and here are the results:

In the “A” bracket:

1st Ryan Windsor and Casadores Herrera

2nd Bryson Jacobs and Jeremy Wheeler

3rd Danny Seals and Gene Quilter

4th Wade Whitted and Ethan Morgan

In the “B” bracket:

1st Steve Provost Jr. And Jon Mcdowell

2nd Payton Marie and Johnny Sirtout

3rd Dave Grant and Brandon Brosamer

In competition on Sunday, over 600-dollars in prize money was given away.  The top 4 teams were:

1st place:   Ryan Windsor and Zachory Sanders

2nd place:   Kevin Corso and Jeremy Wheeler

3rd place:   Teri Puckett McClain Tangman and Rick Kennedy

4th place:  Casadores Herrera and Dick Coy

Winners were announced at the end of the "Chillinois" International Chilli Society cook-off on Saturday, at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.

In red chilli judging, first place went to Rena Jones, who won 750-dollars, a banner, and the right to participate in the I-C-S World Championship.  Second place went to Mary Cannon who won 200-dollars and a certificate, while 3rd place went to George Rives who won 100-dollars and a certificate.

In homestyle chilli judging, first place went to Henry Stephens who won 300-dollars, a banner, and the right to participate in the I-C-S World Championship.  Second place went to George Rives who won 100-dollars and a certificate, while third place went to Rodney Jones who won 50-dollars and a certificate.

In verde chilli judging Saturday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest, first place went to Henry Stephens who won 300-dollars, a banner, and the right to be in the World Championship.  Second place went to Helen Lewis who won 100-dollars and a certificate, and Lloyd Weir won third place, which earned him 50-dollars and a certificate.

In veggie chilli judging, Ken Blaida won first place and earned him 100-dollars, a banner, and a spot at the World Championship.  Second place went to Mike Goodman who won 30-dollars and a certificate, and Gail Kyle won third place and earned 20-dollars and a certificate.

In the "People's Choice" Awards, Weir won in the red chilli competition, Donald Stouffe won in the homestyle category, Henry Stephens the verde category and Mike Goodman won the veggie chilli category.  Each won a certificate and their entry fee paid for next year's I-C-S Chillifest cook-off.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  People's Choice Award winners were announced Saturday at the International Chilli Society "Chillinois" competition at the Greater Taylorville Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle; veggie winner Mike Goodman; verde winner Henry Stephens; 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal, homestyle winner Donald Stouffe, red chilli winner Lloyd Weir, and I-C-S Chillinois cook-off chair Tom Calvert.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips. 

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Veggie chilli cook-off winners were announced Saturday at the I-C-S "Chillinois" competition at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle; 3rd place winner Gail Kyle, 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal, 2nd place winner Mike Goodman, first place winner Ken Blaida, and I-C-S Chillinois cook-off chair Tom Calvert.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips. 

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Verde cook-off winners were announced Saturday at the I-C-S "Chillinois" competition at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.  Back row form the left:  Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle, third place winner Lloyd Weir, 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal, second place winner Helen Lewis, first place winner Henry Stephens, and I-C-S Chillinois cook-off chair Tom Calvert.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Homestyle chilli cook-off winners were announced Saturday at the I-C-S "Chillinois" competition at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.  Back row form the left:  Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle, third place winner Rodney Jones, 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal, second place winner George Rives, first place winner Henry Stephens, and I-C-S Chillinois cook-off chair Tom Calvert.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Red chilli cook-off winners were announced Saturday at the I-C-S "Chillinois" competition at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.  Back row form the left:  Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle, third place winner George Rives, 2019 Miss Chilli Pepper Alaina Deal, second place winner Mary Cannon, first place winner Rena Jones, and I-C-S Chillinois cook-off chair Tom Calvert.  Front row, from the left:  2019 Chillifest Little Mister Jacob Smith, 2019 Chillifest Teen Miss Hannah Chitwood, 2019 Chillifest Junior Miss Julie Wayman, and in front of them is 2019 Chillifest Little Miss Camri Phillips.

Eleven International Chilli Society Champions competed or attended the “Chillinois” cookoff on day one of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest Saturday.

And, for the first time in the history of Chillifest or an I-C-S cookoff, all 4 current I-C-S 2019 World Champions attended Saturday’s event.

Those receiving their I-C-S World Championship Jackets Saturday included Diane Lentz of Nicholasville, Kentucky, the traditional red chilli World Champion; Lloyd Weir of Normal, Illinois, the homestyle chilli World Champion; Henry Stephens of Fort Worth, Texas, the veggie World Champion; and Tom Calvert of Taylorville, the Chilli Verde World Champion.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Those receiving their I-C-S World Championship Jackets Saturday included, from the left:   Diane Lentz of Nicholasville, Kentucky, the traditional red chilli World Champion; Lloyd Weir of Normal, Illinois, the homestyle chilli World Champion; Henry Stephens of Fort Worth, Texas, the veggie World Champion; and Tom Calvert of Taylorville, the Chilli Verde World Champion.

A host of royalty was crowned on Saturday, during the first day of the 2019 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest on the square.

9 Little Mister’s, 15 Little Misses, 15 Junior Misses, and 15 Miss contestants, participated in the annual pageant.  Brittany Moore again chaired the Chillifest pageant this year.

8-year-old Jacob Smith, the son of Bobbi and Bernadine Smith of Taylorville, was Little Mister Chilli Pepper.  First runner-up was 4-year-old Treven Owens, the son of Quincy Law and Tyler Owens, while second runner-up was 6-year-old Eli Whitlow, the son of Amy and Robert Whitlow of Taylorville.  7-year-old Keagan Cruz, the son of Brooke and Mario Cruz, sold the most raffle tickets in the Little Mister category, while Whitlow also picked up the award for the best stage presence, and Smith also picked up the award for best dressed.  4-year-old Maddox Busboom, the son of Randi and Casey Busboom, won the Little Mister award for being the most photogenic.

In the Chillifest Little Miss Chilli Pepper competition, the crown went to 6-year-old Camri Phillips, the daughter of Jacob and Trish Phillips of Taylorville.  First runner-up was Harper Simmons, the 3-year-old daughter of Amanda Stewart and Blake Simmons of Taylorville, while second runner-up was Rayna Segrest, the 4-year-old daughter of Heather Segrest of Morrisonville.  Kyndle Coady, the 6-year-old daughter of Amber and William Coady, sold the most raffle tickets in the Little Miss category.  4-year-old Leigha Broccardo, the daughter of BreAnne Broccardo and Bruce Mansfield, won the Little Miss award for stage presence, while Segrest also won the award for best dressed, and Phillips also won most photogenic in the Little Miss category.

The Chillifest Junior Miss Pageant winner was Julie Wayman, the 10-year-old daughter of David and Jennifer Wayman.  First runner-up was Taryn Clarke, the 11-year-old daughter of Alicia and Tharin Clarke of Morrisonville, while second runner-up was 10-year-old Liberty Courtaway, the daughter of Shanda and Eric Courtaway.  Rilynne Segrest, the 9-year-old daughter of Heather and Shane Segrest, sold the most raffle tickets in the Junior Miss category.  Wayman also won the award for best stage presence, while Maliyah Reber, the 7-year-old daughter of Courtney Reber of Taylorville won the best dressed award, and 10-year-old Laynee Smith, the daughter of Halli and Andy Smith, won the Junior Miss award for most photogenic.

Hannah Chitwood, the 12-year-old daughter of Bev Chitwood, won the Teen Miss Chilli Pepper crown at Saturday’s Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest pageant.  First runner-up was Zarah Guzman, the 12-year-old daughter of Jessica Guzman, and second runner-up was Ella Hohenstein, the 12-year-old daughter of Neil and Elizabeth Hohenstein of Taylorville.  The “People’s Choice”, “Miss Congeniality”, and most photogenic awards went to Guzman, and Elizabeth Turley, the 12-year-old daughter of Wanda Turley and Donald Wilham, sold the most raffle tickets in the Teen Miss category.  Best interview winner was Hohenstein, while Turley also won the award for best stage presence, and Jory Wingo, the 14-year-old daughter of Jamie Gardner and Jacob Wingo, won the best dressed award.

In the Miss Chilli Pepper pageant at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chilllifest, the crown went to Alaina Deal, the 15-year-old daughter of Phil and Teri Deal.  She also won the “Miss Congeniality” award. First runner-up and the People’s Choice Award winner was Elizabeth Amyer, the 17-year-old daughter of Sherie and Randy Amyer, who also sold the most raffle tickets among the Miss candidates.  Second runner-up was Rachel Williams, the 16-year-old daughter of Kerri Williams.  Emily Leers, the 17-year-old daughter of Angie and Kevin Leers won the best interview award, while 15-year-old Faith Horton, daughter of Wess and Amanda Horton won the best stage presence award.  Best dressed in the Miss Chilli Pepper pageant was Hayden Baker, the 19-year-old daughter of Steve and Wendy Brookens, and Amber Feser, the 16-year-old daughter of Christina and Mario Garze, won the most photogenic award in the Miss category.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  8-year-old Jacob Smith (seated), the son of Bobbi and Bernadine Smith of Taylorville, was Little Mister Chilli Pepper.  First runner-up was 4-year-old Treven Owens (front row, 4th from the left), the son of Quincy Law and Tyler Owens, while second runner-up was 6-year-old Eli Whitlow (front row, second from left), the son of Amy and Robert Whitlow of Taylorville.  2018 Little Miss Carmen Vincent is front row, first from the left.  Back row, from the left:   2018 Miss Chilli Pepper Dariess Moreland, 2018 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Katelyn White, and 2018 Little Mister Silas Joyce.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  In the Chillifest Little Miss Chilli Pepper competition, the crown went to 6-year-old Camri Phillips (seated), the daughter of Jacob and Trish Phillips of Taylorville.  First runner-up was Harper Simmons (last on right), the 3-year-old daughter of Amanda Stewart and Blake Simmons of Taylorville, while second runner-up was Rayna Segrest (front left), the 4-year-old daughter of Heather Segrest of Morrisonville.  Back row, from the left:  2018 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Katelyn White, 2018 Miss Chilli Pepper Dariess Moreland,  and 2018 Little Mister Silas Joyce.  2018 Little Miss Chilli Pepper Carmen Vincent is front row, third from the left.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  The Chillifest Junior Miss Pageant winner was Julie Wayman (seated), the 10-year-old daughter of David and Jennifer Wayman.  First runner-up was Taryn Clarke (5th from the left), the 11-year-old daughter of Alicia and Tharin Clarke of Morrisonville, while second runner-up was 10-year-old Liberty Courtaway (first on the left), the daughter of Shanda and Eric Courtaway.  2018 Little Mister Silas Joyce is second from the left, 2018 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Katelyn White is third from the left, 2018 Miss Chilli Pepper Dariess Moreland is 4th from the left, and 2018 Little Miss Chilli Pepper Carmen Vincent is furthest to the right.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  Hannah Chitwood (seated), the 12-year-old daughter of Bev Chitwood, won the Teen Miss Chilli Pepper crown at Saturday’s Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest pageant.  First runner-up was Zarah Guzman (furthest right), the 12-year-old daughter of Jessica Guzman, and second runner-up was Ella Hohenstein (first from the left), the 12-year-old daughter of Neil and Elizabeth Hohenstein of Taylorville. 

 2018 Little Mister Silas Joyce is fourth from the left, 2018 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Katelyn White is second from the left, 2018 Miss Chilli Pepper Dariess Moreland is fifth from the left, and 2018 Little Miss Chilli Pepper Carmen Vincent is third from the left.

CAPTION TO ABOVE PIX:  In the Miss Chilli Pepper pageant at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chilllifest, the crown went to Alaina Deal (seated), the 15-year-old daughter of Phil and Teri Deal.  She also won the “Miss Congeniality” award. First runner-up was Elizabeth Amyer (right), the 17-year-old daughter of Sherie and Randy Amyer, who also sold the most raffle tickets among the Miss candidates.  Second runner-up was Rachel Williams (back row, first on the left), the 16-year-old daughter of Kerri Williams. 

2018 Little Mister Silas Joyce is back row and fourth from the left, 2018 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Katelyn White is back row and third from the left, 2018 Miss Chilli Pepper Dariess Moreland is back row and 2nd from the left, and 2018 Little Miss Chilli Pepper Carmen Vincent is front row at the left.

The holidays are right around the corner. As 2020 creeps closer so does the time for New Years resolutions. One way to get a jump on that resolution is through medically monitored weight loss programs with Physician’s Choice Wellness. Tara Nickerson with Physician’s Choice Wellness explains what that is.

Medically monitored weight loss may sound expensive, but Nickerson explains why it’s more affordable than you think.

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

Mental health affects everyone but what many people don’t realize is how many farmer's mental health effects. Sue Paso, who is with Christian County Mental Health says more farmers commit suicide than veterans.

A lot of organizations are now figuring out ways they can help some of these Farmers with mental health and learning the warning signs.

Paso says that often the first time they see a Farmer with a mental health condition, they’re already in the Emergency Room.

Sue Paso was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Square will be rocking this weekend as it’s the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest. The event will take place on Saturday and Sunday and hopefully the weather cooperates.

CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Patty Hornbuckle remembers last year when ‘Chilli-nado’ ran rampant through the Square.

With all of the events to prepare for at the Chillifest event, Hornbuckle talks about one aspect that seems to get swept under the rug.

Hornbuckle says the bags tournament is competitive, but it’s one of her favorite events.

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

The Illinois Supreme Court has certified Problem Solving Court in Christian County.  Judge Brad T. Paisley announced the decision on Wednesday, after a long process of submitting paperwork.  Paisley is pleased with the decision and looks forward to what’s next. 

Under a new Illinois law, all problem-solving courts need to be certified.

Paisley says this is another tool that the Courts can use to help someone with an addiction.

Problem Solving Certification is valid for 3 years.

Larry’s Service Center in Taylorville will be getting new ownership.  Larry Barry who has been in business for over 40 years has sold his business to Neal Tire out of Indianapolis. Barry says this move will go into effect on Friday. As far as Barry selling now, he says it’s time.

While this goes into effect today, Barry says everything will remain the same—except for him.

Barry says he’s going to miss the customers most of all and says most of all thank you. 

Larry’s Service Center is located at 710 West Springfield Road in Taylorville.

A new boil order has been issued for the village of Edinburg. At 1:05 PM on October 3rd the Village of Edinburg Public Water Supply issued a Precautionary Boil Order affecting customers located on Grant Street from Masonic to Douglas; on Foggit Street from Vine to Martin and on Martin Street from Foggit to Eaton. 

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. At present, the water in the distribution system may be subject to bacteriological contamination, which may cause a number of waterborne diseases and/or general gastrointestinal distress.

Customers in the affected area are encouraged to treat all water for drinking or culinary purposes by bringing it to a rolling boil for at least five minutes.

For additional information contact Mike Lebshier, Superintendent at (217) 623-5542.
 

The days of libraries being just about books are in the past. At the Sullivan Library, there is always something new and exciting going on. The month of October will be no different. Laura Davison and Michelle Molen with the Sullivan Library detail some upcoming events.

One of the more popular programs run by the Sullivan Library is their home-school group. Davison and Molen say it’s something that really fits in with the community.

Both Davison and Molen appeared as a guests on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from the Moultrie Country Senior Citizens Center.

October is Co-Op month and Sam Adir with Moultie Electric Coop says that they have a lot of things planned.

The Co-Op month theme is “By the community, for the community. The Moultrie Electric Coop has a pretty large community to celebrate with. Carla Bradbury and Adir explain exactly how much reach they have.

Both Adir and Bradbury appeared as a guests on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from the Moultrie Country Senior Citizens Center.

The industrial park that will be located in Taylorville is being planned, processed, and worked on as the summer leads into fall with the hope of great things to come. The big step now is marketing to bring industries into the park. Mary Renner, who is in charge of the CCEDC (Christian County Enterprise Developmental Committee) says that she is hoping things will be completely open in the fall but it starts with branding.

Renner says that the work that CCEDC does is more marketing but they don’t actually own the park.  However, they have been working with the Taylorville Development Association who does own the building.

Renner hopes that the project will be underway in the spring and looks forward to all the hard work coming to fruition. 

The issue of safety at County Road 800 N and IL Route 32 has more reason to be talked about now more than ever. Following a fatal accident at the end of September, State Representative Brad Halbrook is focused on safety, but is concerned for the well-being of the families involved.

According to IDOT there have been 28 accidents at that location since 2008. Since learning of the accident, Senator Chapin Rose and State Representative Halbrook have been working hard to get a plan in motion.

State Representative Halbrook appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM morning show live from the Moultrie Country Senior Citizens Center.

In an effort to get more teenagers into science, and more teenagers into engineering, especially females, Congress put together a new challenge called the App Challenge in 2013 that would help host competitions to encourage app building and new inventions.  Congressman Rodney Davis, from Illinois’ 13th District, says this is a wonderful program for teenagers who are interested in Science.

Representative Davis says that a lot of great inventors started as teenagers and he is looking for the next great inventor.

For more information on the App Challenge visit www.congressionalappchallenge.us.
 

A new contest is being put together that will help reward good deeds that children do to help others. There will be prizes available but Officer Kirsten Bolinger wants kids of all ages to take a second and reach out and help people that need help and to perform good deeds that will not only make you feel better about yourself but put a smile on someone else’s face and maybe even get you a prize.

Bolinger explains how to be entered into the contest.

Bolinger says at the end of the day this is about making someone else’s life easier.

The contest is scheduled to begin in the spring.

Due to the Saint Louis Cardinals being in the post-season, all events and games that were scheduled to be on Newstalk WTIM 870 will be moved to New Country 104.1. The Saint Louis Cardinals are scheduled to face the Atlanta Braves in the National League Divisional Series in a best of 5 series starting Thursday Afternoon at 4:02 PM with Game 2 on Friday at 3:37 PM and Game 3 's time still to be determined. You can find all Saint Louis Cardinals Games on Newstalk WTIM 870.

The Central Illinois Foodbank is on a mission to stomp out hunger in Central Illinois. With the Holidays coming up, there is plenty of work to be done, and the foodbank is always looking for volunteers. Public Relations Manager Ashley Earnest explains how to volunteer, and what kind of work can be done.

Earnest also talks about something new at the Central Illinois Foodbank called the Food Rescue Program.

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

Taylorville Memorial Hospital will be hosting its “Mammo Mondays” again this year in October. You can schedule yourself for an appointment for any Monday in October to have Free Mammogram’s done. Sammie Smith says that this program is for those who don’t have any insurance.

Smith says there is also a fund started to help people without insurance but will also help those underinsured as well.

For more information on Mammogram Mondays offered at Taylorville Memorial Hospital or to set up an appointment call TMH at 217-824-1865.

Mental health is a topic that is getting discussed more often, but there is still a lot that is widely unknown. One aspect of mental health that effects everybody is anxiety. Sue Paso with Christian County Mental Health explains what anxiety is, and what to look for.

Paso explains when to seek medical attention, and ways to try and help yourself if you have overwhelming feelings of anxiety.

Anxiety can be a good thing in small doses. Paso talks about the positives of feeling anxious.

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

With all of the turmoil in Washington over possible impeachment, and focusing on transcripts, messages, and phone conversations, Congressman Rodney Davis sat down with Regional Radio News to talk about impeachment and his views on the issue. Congressman Davis, who represents the 13th District in Illinois, says Democrats are just out to get Trump, no matter what he does.

Congressman Davis also says that Democrats aren’t following through on their promises.

Congressmen Davis is worried that the Democrats are trying to impeach Trump just to appease the far left.

Congressman Rodney Davis was a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The talk in the medical establishment has been on vaping and the effects on vaping but especially amongst teens. While a lot of the focus has been on black market cartridges, the marketing is still aimed heavily at teenagers and younger people. Lora Polley, Director of Ancillary Services at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, says that there is a heavy amount of nicotine in these vaping products.

Polley says vaping is at an all time high.

For those who are using vaping as a way to quit smoking, Polley simply reminds you that everyone quits smoking in different ways. What may work for you might not work for a teenager.

For more information on quitting call 1-800-quit-now.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held their monthly business meeting during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the club’s new meeting place, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Committee chairs reported on what they and their committee members are doing towards the Club’s goal of improving the lives of children and youth in the Taylorville community.

Priority One chair Harriett Morrissey reported that plans are in the works for the annual “Coats for Kids” effort to take place the last week of October.

Kiwanis Key Club Liaison Will Perkins reported that the Taylorville High School Key Club will again be collecting for UNICEF during October.  

Kiwanis Park committee chair Jerry Woodard reported that several members of the club recently replaced boards on several Park Pavilion benches.  Woodard also reported on several maintenance items that the Club will be working to fund in the coming Kiwanis year.

Several Taylorville Kiwanis Club members were honored for perfect attendance.  Larry Kemner was recognized for 7 years of perfect attendance, Sarah Van Huss one year, Blain Cornwell 4 years, Cliff Beatty 5 years, and Diane Beatty eleven years of perfect Kiwanis meeting attendance.

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 their new meeting location, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

Newly installed Kiwanis president Sarah Van Huss, conducted her first meeting at the club’s new meeting location, the Taylorville Moose Lodge, on Tuesday.

A good crowd of Kiwanis members attended their first weekly meeting at their new location, the Taylorville Moose Lodge, on Tuesday.

Several Taylorville Kiwanis Club members were recognized for perfect attendance, during Tuesday’s meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  From the left:  Cliff Beatty with 5 years of perfect attendance, Diane Beatty eleven years, Larry Kemner 7 years, Sarah Van Huss one year, and Blain Cornwell 4 years.

The investigation into the theft of money from the Christian County YMCA is still ongoing. The Taylorville Police Department sent out a press release addressing the ongoing investigation. An internal investigation utilizing an outside Forensic Auditor is nearing the end and the investigation will continue to move forward. 

The Forensic Auditor is reviewing all current and previous accounts held by the Christian County YMCA. Forensic Audits take a significant amount of time to complete. Interviews with current and former employees have been completed. Anyone who has any additional information in regards to the investigation is encouraged to contact Detective Rob Thomason at the Taylorville Police Department. 

Assisting in the investigation is the Christian County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.  Talks with Federal authorities continue to be ongoing concerning the additional assistance with the investigation as well as prosecution.

The Christian County Emergency Management Agency Director along with Taylorville Fire Chief is resigning. After putting in over 27 years of work in Taylorville and Christian County, Mike Crews has announced he is taking a position as Fire Chief and Emergency Management Agency Director in Hanover Township in Illinois. Hanover is located near Elgin and is up in Cook County. Crews says that it’s time to move on.

Crews says he’s going to miss Taylorville, but that he will miss his crew of firefighters the most.

Crews says that he is proud of the accomplishments that he has achieved in his time here but knows it’s from the support of the city of Taylorville and Christian County.

Crews says he is thankful to everyone in the city for their support of the Taylorville Fire Department.

Crews will takeover in Hanover on October 28th. 

A young woman from Macon has earned a $1,000 scholarship due to her help with the American Red Cross blood drive. Hannah Reichert of Macon joined up with the Red Cross Leaders Save Lives program, which is designed to get more people involved in setting up blood drives. 

Reichert won a gift card and a $1,000 scholarship for higher education.  Reichert hosted the blood drive on June 7th which collected 25 lifesaving blood donations. Reichert, who is a senior at Meridian High School, wanted to give back to her community and knew this was a good way to do this. “I gained responsibility and awareness for people in need of blood products. It’s amazing to be a part of a lifesaving mission.” 

High School and College blood drives make up 20% of all donations given to the Red Cross during the school year. The Leaders Save Lives program is also running this winter break from December 15th, 2019 through Jan 15th, 2020.  If you want to donate blood, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). 

The Pana Community Hospital Foundation will be hosting a fundraiser to help raise money for their building project. Executive Director of the Pana Community Hospital Foundation Kim Pullman says it’s an event you won’t want to miss.

Pullman explains that there is a bonus competition for those teams that do participate.

The PCH Foundation is getting close to reaching their fundraising goal, Pullman gives an update.

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

Taylorville Memorial Hospital wants to help people quit smoking. One way that they are doing this is through a class called “Freedom From Smoking” and it is sponsored by the American Lung Association.  This program is free to anyone who is ready to quit smoking. Lora Polley, who is overseeing the program, says this is a great 7-week class that will help you if you are ready to quit.

There is also a tool that the hospital can help you with that will screen you for lung cancer.

The class is held every Tuesday beginning on October 29th. It runs from 4:30-6 PM in the 2nd-floor annex in the Taylorville Memorial Hospital. To register call 217-824-1601 or email tmhcontact@mhsil.com. 

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation, or CCEDC, is on a mission to improve the economy in the region it serves. Mary Renner is the Executive Director of the CCEDC, and she explains what the organization is.

Renner says their annual meeting is coming up, and there will be a special guest.

Renner can be reached by calling 217-638-5032 or by emailing r.consult@att.net. She appeared as a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

Lincoln Land Community College announced last week that they have been awarded a $1 million grant to establish an open door workforce equity initiative to provide minority and low-income individuals with career training. Director of the workforce equity initiative, Michael Phelon explains that this helps a lot of people who may think college is out of reach for them.

Phelon says that jobs that work under this grant are in industries that are booming right now such as pharmaceutical, technicians, truck drivers, auto, and welding.

Phelon says that people can start now sending names in so they can start getting information about the program.

Program participants will receive free tuition, a stipend, transportation assistance, childcare assistance and much more if approved.

The YMCA will be hosting the 31st annual YMCA auction in November. The theme this year is “Hats off to the Y". This black-tie event will be taking place at the Pillars Event Center in Taylorville on November 6th.  Chris Weittenhiller, YMCA CEO says that this auction is a wonderful fundraiser that supports the YMCA.

Weitenhiller says the event will be hosted by Bob and Jan Febus who have spent quite a bit of time with the YMCA themselves.

The event is open to the public but everyone must RSVP. 

The Christian County YMCA Auction is a fundraising event with proceeds going to offset operating expenses, subsidize pricing, and provide financial assistance.  In 2018 the YMCA provided over $100,000 in direct assistance to over 600 children and families in Christian County.  For more information contact the YMCA at 287-7271.