Local News

Taylorville Development Association Awards Bids on $1 Million Industrial Park

Taylorville's new Industrial Park is one step closer to reality, after the Taylorville Development Association, owners of the property, awarded construction bids to 3 contractors on Tuesday in a special Board meeting.

 

Executive Director of the Christian County Economic Development Corporation, Mary Renner, has been assisting T-D-A in its efforts to get a new Industrial Park built for Taylorville, and told Regional Radio News that a new Industrial Park was one of the goals she was given when she was first hired 14 years ago.

 

 

Renner added that a new site for Taylorville's Industrial Park had to be found, due to issues at its present site that was built in the 1960's.

 

 

The winning bids now to go the Economic Development Administration in Chicago for approval, before construction can start.  That agency is providing a matching 537-thousand dollar grant for the project.

Governor Pritzker Extends Stay At Home Order Until April 30th; Nearly 1,000 New COVID-19 Cases In Illinois

Governor JB Pritzker extended the stay at home order through April 30th, Tuesday afternoon in a press conference. Governor Pritzker announced the decision was being done thanks to science and guidance from his advisors. Governor Pritzker stressed that he would end this early if he possibly could, but it wasn’t going to be done anytime soon.

 

The Governor gave a snapshot of hospitals in Illinois and said that the situation is changing by the minute.

 

 

Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of the Illinois Public Health, says that there are 937 new cases of coronavirus disease today. Currently, the Illinois Department of Public Health is reporting a total of 5,994 cases, including 99 deaths, in 54 counties in Illinois.  Dr. Ezike says that some hospitals are reaching their capacities on ventilators and other hospital equipment.

 

 

For more information on COVID-19 visit Taylorvilledailynews.com or visit https://coronavirus.illinois.gov.  You can listen to every press conference by Governor JB Pritzker by tuning into NEWSTALK WTIM and it’s many platforms at 2:30 every afternoon.

Montgomery County Resident Dies Saving Man From A Fire

A man is dead after saving another man’s life early Tuesday morning. On Tuesday, March 31st at 12:45 a.m. the Montgomery County Sheriff’s office received a call reporting that a house trailer was on fire at 2011 Old Brushy Trail in Walshville near Bond County and that there may be someone inside. 

 

A Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Deputy and a Trooper with the Illinois State Police arrived just before 1:00 a.m. There were multiple neighbors on the scene that were attempting to remove the subject from the residence. The Deputy and Trooper assisted in removing the subject from the home. 32-year-old Jeffrey D. Dunkirk of Staunton was pronounced dead at the scene by the Montgomery County Coroner Randy Leetham. 

 

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Investigator, Coroner’s Office, Illinois State Police Crime Scene, and the Illinois Fire Marshal’s Office assisted in the investigation and determined that the fire was an accident. Mr. Dunkirk was at the residence visiting the homeowner and attempted to stoke a wood burner within the home by using fuel. That caused an explosion and fire which injured Dunkirk. Dunkirk and the homeowner then retreated to the back of the home since the fire was next to the homes only exit. A badly burned Mr. Dunkirk assisted the homeowner out of a small bathroom window and he then collapsed. 

 

Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, the Litchfield Fire Department, the Taylor Springs Fire Department, the Mt. Olive Fire Department, the Greenville Fire Department, and the Hillsboro Area Ambulance Service.  

 

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office said in the press release, “Many people within the neighborhood are to be praised for assisting, but especially Mr. Dunkirk for helping another human before himself.”
 

New Case Found At Rolling Meadows In Taylorville; Christian County up to 14 Positive Cases of COVID-19

Reports into Regional Radio News from the local Departments of Health and Emergency Management Agencies have announced new numbers related to COVID-19. In Sangamon County there are 20 pending tests, 16 positive tests, and 386 negative tests. Fayette County has 1 positive test, Macon County has 2 positive tests, Christian County has 7 pending tests, 14 positive tests, and 32 negative tests. Montgomery County has 12 pending tests, 2 previous positive tests, and 32 negative tests. 

 

During the Chris-Mont EMA press conference held on Tuesday, Montgomery County Information Officer Brian Hitchings gave an update on the Rolling Meadows Senior Living Apartments in Taylorville saying that an additional case has been identified.

 

Hitchings also announced that there will be some National Guard members stationed on the ground at the joint emergency operations center for Christian and Montgomery Counties. 

 

Hitchings also said that while there have been no reports of COVID-19 affecting pets, it’s still a good idea if you are sick to restrict contact with pets if at all possible.

 

For more information on COVID-19 visit taylorvilledailynews.com or check out the Chris-Mont EMA Facebook page.

Illinois State Trooper Mindy Carroll Talks About Child Abuse Prevention Month

Illinois State Trooper Mindy Carroll is the Central Region Public Information Officer for the Illinois State Police and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss Child Abuse Prevention Month. Trooper Carroll started out by discussing the history of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

 

 

Trooper Carroll went on to discuss how 680,000 were victims of child abuse and neglect in 2019.

 

 

Finally, Trooper Carroll talked about how we are all in a difficult time, but we need to come together as a community to help protect those who can’t protect themselves.

 

 

If you suspect a child has been harmed or is at risk of being harmed please call the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE. Illinois State Trooper Mindy Carroll was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Food Pantry Is In Need Of Volunteers And Donations

Tyler Frump is a volunteer at the Taylorville Food Pantry and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss how the Food Pantry has switched to a drive thru location and how 40% of the families that now are in need of food either haven’t visited the Taylorville Food Pantry in 2020 or haven’t ever visited.
 

 

Frump went on to discuss how they have a few different ways in which you can make a donation.
 

 

Finally, Frump talked about how the empty shelves in the grocery stores are having a huge impact on the Taylorville Food Pantry being able to find the food that they need.
 

 

If you are a family in need or would like to make a donation please call 454-6105 or 820-5174. Tyler Fromp with the Taylorville Food Pantry was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Coronavirus Outbreak Triggers First-Ever Health Emergency Alert on Smartphones

The coronavirus outbreak caused what likely was a first-ever health alert over smartphones this (Tuesday) morning, at 10:20.

 

The Emergency Alert was sent by the state, saying it needs licensed healthcare workers to sign-up at the web site "illinoishelps-dot-net" to fight the COVID-19 outbreak.

 

It's likely the first time that the state has used the Emergency Alert System to recruit health care professionals.

465 New Cases of COVID-19 In Illinois; 7 New Deaths

There are 465 new cases in Illinois of COVID-19, with seven new deaths including a death at Stateville Correctional Center.  The numbers for the state are 5,057 with 73 deaths in 52 counties. 12 men from Stateville are now hospitalized including several requiring ventilators. Director of Public Health, Dr. Ngozi Ezike, says that we all have a role to play and everything matters: action and inaction. 

 

Dr. Ezike says that it’s not just prisons that are seeing outbreaks of cases in small clusters.

 

 

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says that just because there are fewer cases today than there were yesterday does not mean we have flattened the curve. We need to look at days and weeks of data as opposed to just one day.

 

 

There is a continued push for supplies and PPE to the state and the Governor is working with several entities including the Federal government to get supplies into our area for our hospitals.  You can listen to every Governor JB Pritzker press conference at 2:30 PM every day on NEWSTALK WTIM and its many platforms.

4th Judicial Circuit Further Postpones Court Cases

 

Illinois' 4th Judicial Circuit Court this (Monday) afternoon announced it's continuing court cases presently being heard in several Regional Radio County Courthouses, out of an abundance of caution and in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

The 4th Circuit includes County Courthouses in Christian, Shelby, Montgomery, Fayette and Effingham Counties in the Regional Radio listening area.

Jury trials, traffic cases including driving under the influence, criminal misdemeanor cases, ordinance and small claims cases, all family court and child support cases, all pay or appears and compliance hearings, and marriages, are all being continued until at least April 17th, and maybe longer according to the statement this (Monday) afternoon from the Court.

The statement added that all evictions will end until further notice, but in-custody cases including bond settings, criminal felony cases with time constraints, juvenile detention and shelter care hearings, emergency and plenary orders of protection, and other emergency hearings, WILL be held as usual.

Civil and criminal jury trials are also continued until at least May 23rd according to the statement released by the Fourth Judicial Circuit this (Monday) afternoon.

The statement was signed by Chief Judge of the Fourth Judicial Circuit Kimberly Koester.

Chris-Mont EMA Gives Update On Rolling Meadows Senior Living Facility In Taylorville

The Total Test Results for COVID-19 in Central Illinois are; Montgomery County: 10 pending tests, 2 positive tests, and 29 negative tests. For Christian County: 7 pending tests, 13 positive tests, and 25 negative tests. For Sangamon County: 11 pending tests, 13 positive tests, and 386 negative tests, and 1 death.  Macon, Fayette, and Bond Counties are all reporting 1 case each as well. 

 

During Monday’s press conference from the Christian Montgomery County EMA, Christian County Information Officer Mike Havera gave an update on the Rolling Meadows Senior Living Facility in Taylorville which confirmed on Sunday that the facility has been placed on quarantine as a protective measure after 11 new cases were confirmed.

 

 

Havera also says that there are some rumors about whether or not mail can carry COVID-19. In the end, wiping them down with sanitizer would probably be the best course of action.

 

There is also a second Montgomery County Resident that has tested positive for COVID-19.

 

You can find out more about COVID-19 at www.taylorvilledailynews.com or by visiting the Chris-Mont EMA Facebook page.

TMH CEO Kim Bourne Talks About How They're Keeping Patients And Staff Safe From COVID-19

Kim Bourne is the CEO of Taylorville Memorial Hospital and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss what TMH is doing to keep patients and staff safe from COVID-19.

 

 

Bourne went on to discuss how they’ve stepped up to make sure that high touch surfaces are constantly being cleaned.
 

 

Finally, Bourne talked about how Taylorville Memorial Hospital is doing what they want everyone to be doing in their own homes.
 

 

Taylorville Memorial Hospital CEO Kim Bourne was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Rep. Rodney Davis Talks About The COVID-19 Phase Three Bill And How It Will Impact Small Business

Congressman Rodney Davis represents the 13th Congressional District of Illinois and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss what Congress has done to address the COVID-19 pandemic and what local businesses can do if they need help through these difficult times.

 

Congressman Davis started out by discussing the Phase 1 and Phase 2 bills that Congress recently passed to start working on a vaccine, to make sure that our hospitals had all the necessary Personal Protective Equipment, and to create a paid leave program to make sure that employees that have to self quarantine still got paid.
 

 

Congressman Davis went on to discuss the much larger Phase 3 bill that will have direct investment into our main street businesses.
 

 

Finally, Congressman Davis talked about what business owners can do to get a loan and how if you meet certain requirements the majority of the loan that you take out will be eligable to be forgiven.

 

 

For more information please visit rodneydavis.house.gov. Illinois Congressman Rodney Davis was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Howard G. Buffett Foundation Has Partnered With Christian County Restaurants To Feed First Responders

The Howard G. Buffett Foundation today announced a $60,000 partnership with locally-owned restaurants within Christian County to offer free meals for first responders that operate within Christian County. The food voucher support will cover meals starting today, March 30th through Tuesday April 28th and the food vouchers have been given to the participating law enforcement agencies who in turn will distribute to on-duty first responders in Christian County.

 

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp talked about the generosity of the Howard G. Buffett Foundation and how this partnership came about.

 

 

Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce CEO Patty Hornbuckle talked about how they want the locally-owned restaurants to benefit from this and how she wanted to spill the beans on this last week on the morning show, but just wasn’t quite ready to.

 

 

Finally, Hornbuckle talked about how we really want to thank our first responders for laying their lives on the line each and every day to fight this virus.

 

 

The local restaurants participating in the food voucher program include Angelo’s Pizza, Angelo’s Express, Bill’s Toasty Shop, Burton’s Tap, Charro Mexican Restaurant, Family Traditions Bakery, Kluges on the Square, Los Rancheros, Muck’s Place, Pizza Man of ana, QQ China, Route 51 Eats & Treats, Spring Garden Restaurant, Taco Gringo, Triangle Pub, Uptown Cafe, and Yummy Hibachi & Sushi on Wheels. All meals will be available for take-out only.

Pana Medical Group To Start Doing Video Visits

Pana Medical Group along with the Community Medical Clinic are helping to see patients virtually through an app called video visits. As patients are being asked to stay home, doing video conferences can help people still be able to talk to doctors and get the care that they need. Pana Community Hospital’s clinics include satellite offices in Assumption, Nokomis, and Ramsey. 

 

Originally, the service was supposed to start in June, but due to COVID-19, these services have been expedited and started now. If you want to schedule a video visit, set up an account through the clinic’s patient portal before the video visit can take place. Video visits will not work if you have to have your vitals or any testing done to determine an illness and the nurse practitioner will determine whether or not a video visit will work. 

 

For more information on video services or any questions you have contact the Pana Medical Group, visit www.panahospital.com or call 562-2131.

 

Dr. Terry Cunnington of Community Medical Clinic in Pana speaks to his patients, Maggie and Lucy Ishmael and their mother Jacci during a Video Visit now being offered at CMC and Pana Medical Group clinics.

U Of I Extension Has COVID-19 Resources Available Online

Sara Marten is the 4-H Youth Development Educator at the University of Illinois Extension Office and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss what they’re doing in response to COVID-19 and about some of the COVID-19 related resources that they have available online.

 

 

Marten went on to discuss how they’re utilitizing their website during the COVID-19 crisis.
 

 

Finally, Marten talked about some of the COVID-19 related information that they have on their website, extension.illinois.edu/cjmm.
 

Sara Marten with The University of Illinois Extension Office was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Rolling Meadows Senior Apartments On Quarantine Lockdown After Cases Spike

An apartment building geared for Seniors is being placed on quarantine due to the number of COVID-19 cases in the building. According to the Chris-Mont EMA, the Rolling Meadows Senior Apartments in Taylorville are on quarantine after the number of COVID-19 cases spiked there. As of 3 PM on Sunday afternoon, Christian County has 7 pending tests, 13 positive tests, and 25 negative tests.  

 

The residents are being monitored carefully by the Department of Public Health and no visitors are allowed right now. Rolling Meadows is cooperating fully with the quarantine and with the investigation. The Department of Public Health continues to look into the situation to see if anyone else could have been potentially exposed. 

 

Montgomery County has 10 pending tests, 1 previous positive test, and 28 negative tests. Montgomery County Board Chair Evan Young issued a proclamation of disaster for the County which will assist residents through the EMA and help coordinate Federal and state resources. 

 

Fayette County has reported 1 case, Bond County has reported 1 case, Sangamon County has 12 cases and 1 death, and Macon County has 2 cases. 

 

Continue to monitor yourself for any symptoms of COVID-19 including Fever and/or chills, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue and/or weakness. 

 

As always, for more information on COVID-19 visit taylorvilledailynews.com or visit the Chris-Mont EMA Facebook page.

Over 1,000 New COVID-19 Cases In Illinois; Governor Pritzker Working On Getting More Testing

With over 1,000 new cases yesterday in Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker has announced that the State of Illinois wants to start raising the tests they give every day from about 4,000 to about 10,000 per day.  The governor says that while there have been improvements in testing, it needs to be better. Governor Pritzker says he plans on taking matters into his own hands.

 

The governor plans on having the testing sites up and running by Tuesday. Director of the Department of Public Health, Dr. Ngozi Ezike, announced that there were 1,105 new cases with 18 new deaths.  This brings the total number of cases to 4,596 with 65 deaths in 47 counties. Dr. Ezike says that one of the ways that we can tell whether or not the virus is slowing and we’ve flattened the curve by using hospital data.

 


The Governor also had a message for landlords about any potential evictions for people with the Coronavirus, or nurses that are fighting it, "don’t do it." 

 

 

You can hear every press conference on COVID-19 from Governor Pritzker every afternoon at 2:30 PM on NEWSTALK WTIM.

Weather Service Extends Tornado Watch Until 2am Sunday

The National Weather Service at 8:40 Saturday night, extended the Tornado Watch until 2am Sunday, for areas north of Interstate 70, including all of the Regional Radio listening area.

 

At 7:30 Saturday night, the Weather Service in Lincoln issued a statement saying that thunderstorms were increasing across western Illinois as a cold front moves into the area, and were still capable of being severe. Further south, while rain and thunderstorms will continue through mid evening south of I-70, the threat of severe weather there has significantly lowered.

 

They’ve also issued a Wind Advisory for the area from 3am until 7pm Sunday.  Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.  Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle, and secure outdoor objects.

 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for watches and warnings instantly as they’re issued by the National Weather Service.

Montgomery County Announces First COVID-19 Case

The Christian Montgomery Counties Emergency Management Agency or Chris-Mont EMA held a special press conference on Saturday to announce a new COVID-19 case in Montgomery County, the Counties first confirmed case. Brian Hitchings, Public Information Officer for Chris-Mont EMA says that the resident is quarantined in their home and cooperating with the Department of Public Health.

 

 

Public Information Officer Mike Havera also released details on one of the Christian County COVID-19 cases.  Havera says that the case has been identified at the Rolling Meadows Senior Living apartments in Taylorville.

 

 

Havera read a statement from Mayor Bruce Barry urging everyone to not panic, but prepare yourself and stay home.

 

 

Each press release in its entirety is released on the Chris-Mont Emergency Management Agency Facebook page.

Infant Dies Of COVID-19 In Chicago; Nearly 3,500 Cases In Illinois

An infant has died from COVID-19 in Chicago. The Governor of Illinois, JB Pritzker announced today during his press conference that the infant was less than one year old. Pritzker says deaths among children seems to be rare. A State worker also died from the Department of Human Services.

 

Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of the Department of Public Health spoke about the new numbers which bring the total to 3,491 cases including 47 deaths in 43 counties in Illinois. 

 

 

Governor Pritzker also says that he is very concerned about first responders, health care workers, and their efforts.

 

You can hear every press conference given by Governor JB Pritzker on our many NEWSTALK WTIM platforms every afternoon around 2:30 PM.

Tornado Watch Issued Until 9pm Saturday; 2 Rounds of Severe Weather Possible

 

The National Weather Service this afternoon issued a Tornado Watch for the entire Regional Radio listening area until 9pm tonight.

The Weather Service says that a significant severe weather outbreak is possible this afternoon and evening. Damaging winds, very large hail, and strong tornadoes are all possible.

They say that 2 rounds are possible.  South of Interstate 74, severe weather is possible from mid thru late afternoon.  The second round of severe weather is possible between 5pm and 9pm tonight west of a Springfield to Peoria line, and between 7pm and 11pm west of a Champaign to Effingham line which would include the Regional Radio listening area. Areas east of a Champaign to Effingham line could be impacted between 9pm and midnight tonight.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for watches and warnings instantly as they’re issued by the National Weather Service.

Sullivan Area Banks Come Together To Help Local Businesses

The Sullivan Chamber and Economic Development is doing what they can to help Sullivan area businesses through this difficult time. On Friday morning the Sullivan Chamber and Economic Development held a Zoom meeting with area banks in regards to potential financing opportunities for businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Participants in the meeting included representatives from 1st Community Bank, 1st Midwest Bank and Trust, and Scott State Bank. Also in on the meeting was Sullivan Chamber and Economic Development Director Laurrie Minor, Sullivan Mayor Richard Glazebrook and Lynn Lowder who is the CEO of the Veterans Business Project and member of the Small Business Administration Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs. Lowder answered questions that the banks had about the new developments and said that if businesses need help they need to reach out to the banks.

Weather Service Says Severe Weather, Tornadoes Possible Saturday

 

The National Weather Service in Lincoln says severe weather, including the possibility of tornadoes, will be moving thru the Regional Radio listening area between tonight and late Saturday night.

The Weather Service says scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop in central Illinois early tonight. Some of these storms will have the potential to produce large hail and heavy rain as the push toward the northeast. A few storms may produce high wind gusts close to 60 mph. Make sure you stay alert for any watches or warnings overnight. 

Saturday according to the Weather Service will be unseasonably warm and humid in the afternoon. This will result in a favorable environment for severe thunderstorm development, particularly after 3 pm. At this time, it appears that significant severe weather is possible, including tornadoes, damaging winds, and very large hail. 

They add that thunderstorms may be ongoing in the morning, but the main severe weather threat will materialize during the afternoon and evening. Be alert for watches (your first heads-up) and warnings (take action) Saturday afternoon and evening. When you receive a warning, quickly go to a secure shelter in a basement or lowest floor of a sturdy building away from windows and doors. 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for the latest watches and warnings direct from the National Weather Service.

Governor Calls For Help For Homeless; SNAP Increases

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker held his daily press conference and urged anyone with a medical background to come help in the fight against COVID-19. Governor Pritzker announced increases to SNAP benefits and funding for helping homeless people, as well as a stipend to child care providers who have provided child care to essential workers. The governor announced that he has received more state procured masks to help with PPE to Champaign, Peoria and other areas that have needed PPE. 

 

The Governor spoke about some of the help for childcare for essential workers.

 

Illinois Department of Human Services Secretary Grace Hou says that SNAP benefits will be increasing.

 

The numbers for the state of Illinois as far as COVID-19 goes include 3,026 cases in 40 counties with 34 deaths. 21,542 people have been tested. You can listen to every Governor Pritzker Press Conference on the many NEWSTALK WTIM platforms every afternoon at 2:30 PM. 
 

Christian Montgomery County EMA Director Urging Citizens To Keep Practicing Social Distancing

The Christian-Montgomery County EMA held their daily press conference on Friday and Information Officer Mike Havera talked about some of the numbers from Montgomery and Christian County.  As of Thursday evening, Montgomery County has 16 pending tests, 0 positives, and 20 negative tests. Christian County has 1 pending tests, 2 positive tests, and 17 negative tests. Sangamon County has 98 pending tests, 8 positive cases, and 283 confirmed negative tests. Havera asked everyone to please get medical help if you need it, but to call first.

 

 

Chris-Mont EMA Director Greg Nimmo has some concerns about people still practicing social distancing with the warmer weather.

 

Christian  County Department of Public Health Director Denise Larson addressed concerns about the Crossroads Church where two people have tested positive for COVID-19 saying that everyone knows and the people that need to be quarantined are doing what they have too.

 

For more information on the Chris Mont EMA please visit their Facebook page.

Avery Bourne Answers Some Questions Concerning COVID-19

Avery Bourne has been pushing hard to get information out about the Coronavirus and answering constituent questions in an effort to hopefully calm a lot of fears people may have about COVID-19 and the virus impact on Central Illinois. Bourne, who is the Illinois Representative for the 95th District, spoke about some of the recent questions that she has received in her many conference calls and phone conversations from citizens. Bourne says the desire for tests has been overwhelming, but tests are only being given out if people absolutely need it.

 

Bourne is urging people to give blood if you possibly can. There is always a need for blood, but with the current crisis, a lot of people aren’t giving blood who usually do. 

 

 

Bourne urges everyone to continue to support the local economy as well as you can. One way that you can do this is through gift cards to be used later on.

 

 

If you have any questions for Representative Avery Bourne, please contact her office at 324-5200 or email her at Bourne@ilhousegop.org. You can also tweet her or send her a message on Facebook. Bourne will also be conducting a Facebook Live on her "State Representative Avery Bourne" Facebook Page to address any concerns that you may have as well, Saturday morning at 10 AM. 

Lincoln Land Community College And Memorial Health System Are Working To Address The Nursing Shortage

Dee Kruger is the Director at Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss what Lincoln Land Community College is doing to help address the nursing shortage in partnership with Memorial Health Systems.
 

 

Kruger went on to discuss when they hope to occupy the new building.

 

 

Finally, Kruger wanted to let everyone know that Lincoln Land Community College is still virtually open and if you have any questions or would like to get enrolled to please call 786-2754.

 

 

Dee Kruger with Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Christian/Montgomery Counties Holding PPE Drive Saturday Morning

The Christian Montgomery EMA is working hand in hand with the local fire departments in an effort to try to bring personal protective equipment or PPE into Christ-Mont Counties and the people that need it. There will be PPE drive held at all of the fire houses in Christian and Montgomery on Saturday from 9-11.  Chris-Mont EMA Director Greg Nimmo says that this is a way to get supplies that are still very much needed.


 

Nimmo says that all kinds of supplies are needed but they should be clean and unused.

 

While handmade equipment is great, it is not approved by the CDC, so at this time they are only looking for approved equipment.

 

 

All 20 fire departments in Montgomery and Christian Counties will be participating. For more information, you are encouraged to contact your local Fire Departments.

Rural Taylorville Man Charged With Discharge Of Firearm

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office along with the Taylorville Police Department, Illinois State Police, and Dunn’s Ambulance responded to a shots fired call on Wednesday. A call was received of a person having a mental health crisis with shots fired in Rural Taylorville. 

 

The subject had stopped shooting before officers arrived. Officers secured the subject and made sure the scene was safe and Dunn’s Ambulance transported the subject to the hospital for further evaluation. 

 

During the investigation, it was determined that the subject had been firing a handgun at his own vehicles. Nearly 30 rounds were fired and five of the rounds struck a neighbor’s residence. There were no injuries and the investigation does not show there was any intent to harm anyone. 

 

33-year-old Matthew B. Adams of Taylorville was arrested and charged with reckless discharge of a firearm, a Class 4 felony.

 

Previous Positive COVID-19 Cases For Christian County Confirmed In Taylorville

Information has been released from the Christian-Montgomery Emergency Management Agency about where the COVID-19 cases have happened in Christian County. Attendees of the Crossroads Apostolic Ministries Church in Taylorville have been possibly exposed to an individual that has tested positive for the coronavirus.  The confirmed positive was present at services that were held on March 15th. At the time it was believed that this was just one isolated case, however, a second individual has tested positive and the two cases were linked together through the investigation. All attendees of the service in question, have been notified by the Christian County Public Health to quarantine themselves at home and monitor for symptoms.  They are being monitored closely by public health.

 

Crossroads has been cooperative throughout the process and has been following all orders and guidelines including suspending services and following quarantine guidelines including cleaning of the church. The Chris-Mont EMA would remind everyone that we are all one community and we should support one another during this time of crisis.

 

As always, practice social distancing, and stay home if you have the following symptoms: fever/chills, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue/weakness. If you develop one or more of those symptoms, please contact your doctor or the Christian County Department of Public Health at 824-4113. 

 

The Chris-Mont EMA is reminding everyone to follow the Governor’s Stay At Home Order and that any age group can get COVID-19, it can hit any gender, race, or age. The Chris-Mont EMA will hold their daily press conference Friday at Noon.

Dee Kruger With Lincoln Land Community College Talks About The Move To Online Learning

Dee Kruger is the Director at Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss how they’re taking things one day at a time and don’t know when they’ll be able to be open, how all classes have moved online for the remainder of the semester, and how both the teachers and students are transitioning to online learning.

 

Kruger started out discussing how they’re taking ithings one day at a time and don’t know when they’ll be able to be open.

 

 

Kruger went on to discuss how students are transitioning to an online learning experience.

 

 

Finally, Kruger discussed how the teachers are working so hard to get all of their classes moved online.
 

 

Dee Kruger with Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

U.S. Attorney Warns Of COVID-19 Related Fraud And Scams

U.S. Attorney John C. Milhiser of the Central District of Illinois wants to remind everyone to be on alert for COVID-19 related frauds and scams such as robocalls and social media donation scams.

 

U.S. Attorney Milhiser released this statement, “We are fortunate to live in communities of people who are generous and caring toward others; however, there are those who use crisis situations to exploit and incite people’s fear and vulnerabilities to do harm. It is a top priority of this office, in partnership with our local, state, and federal law enforcement counterparts, to detect, investigate, and prosecute anyone who attempts to take advantage of the anxieties and uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to defraud others. Remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.”

 

If you or a loved one become a victim of a COVID-19 related fraud or scam, please report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline by calling 866-720-5721 or email disaster@leo.gov.

State Senator Andy Manar On COVID-19 Downstate Small Business Grant And Loan Programs

Yesterday, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced two brand new programs that were specifically designed to providing much needed capital to rural and downstate small businesses.

 

The Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan Fund is a $60 million program to offer low-interest loans of up to $50,000 for “small businesses in every industry outside of the city of Chicago.” To be eligible to apply you must have fewer than 50 employees and have less than $3 million in revenue in 2019 and the first payment will not be due for six months.

 

Additionally, the Governor announced the Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program. This program is a $20 million grant program for “small businesses in suburban and rural counties across Illinois.” These grants are available to businesses of up to 50 employees the chance to work with their local government to obtain a grant of up to $25,000. To be eligible for this grant, your community must be qualified to receive Community Development Block Grant funds.

 

Illinois State Senator Andy Manar released this statement, “Small businesses are the lifeblood of downstate communities,” Manar said. “Rather than massive corporate investments, the rural way of life is driven by the ability of family-owned businesses to support each other. I applaud Governor Pritzker for recognizing rural downstate business owners’ unique needs and taking bold action to help them protect their livelihoods and endure the challenges and uncertainty posed by COVID-19.”

 

Applications for these grants will be available on the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website by Friday, March 27th, 2020.

Coghlan Sentenced To Five Charges; Receives 16 Year Sentence

A Taylorville man was sentenced today for 5 separate charges stemming from incidents over the last year and will serve 16 years in the Department of Corrections. James Coghlan, 35, had his day in court and pled guilty to five different charges, including theft, criminal damage to government property, and escape from prison. States Attorney Mike Havera says that with all the charges together, Coghlan has a 16 year sentence.

 

 

Havera says that despite everything that is going on, the States Attorneys office is still able to perform all of the necessary responsibilities.

 

 

In order to remain safe and healthy, Havera says they’ve implemented a video court room so they can carryout their duties, but also practice social distancing. 

 

 

The sentence is day for day, but all sentences are consecutive rather than concurrent. Coghlan will start serving his sentence at the Department of Corrections immediately.

Coronavirus Cases Sees Largest Daily Increase; Governor Warning Citizens To Stay Home

Governor JB Pritzker gave a stern warning to the State of Illinois today in his daily press conference admonishing people for not taking the shelter at home warning serious. This comes after Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot closed the beaches in the city as many people went out on a warmer March afternoon. Governor Pritzker said this has to change or more people will die. 

 

 

The Illinois Department of Public Health has announced 673 new cases of COVID-19. There have also been 7 new deaths. The age of all cases ranges from younger than 1 to 99 years old. There are 2,538 cases in Illinois with 26 deaths in 37 counties. 

 

Governor Pritzker has also joined the United Way and the Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations to launch a COVID-19 Response Fund or ICRF.  The response will support new statewide fundraising to support nonprofit organizations. 

 

 

Senator Dick Durbin spoke out about the relief bill that the senate passed, saying it is close to 2.2 trillion dollars. 

 

While the work isn’t done, Durbin says it’s a solid start and they are looking at other relief bills to pass as well.

 

You can listen to every press conference given by Governor JB Pritzker on our NEWSTALK WTIM platforms every afternoon around 2:30.

Amid COVID-19 Outbreak Unemployment Rates Rise

Amid the health concerns and quarantining the economy is taking a massive hit due to this COVID-19 Virus. According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security(IDES), there as been a major spike in unemployment claims. So far in March there have been 133,763 total claims, as opposed to 27,493 in March of last year.

 

In his daily press conference on Thursday, Governor JB Pritzker gave figures that show while this is happening in Illinois, it’s also a national trend as businesses try to contend with the stay at home orders.

 

 

While unemployment and layoffs are the main component, they are not the only struggle. Governor Pritzker said many Americans are seeing hour reductions as well.

 

 

According to IDES the Illinois unemployment rate for February was 3.4 percent, which was lower than the national unemployment rate for the second straight month. More information can be found by visiting the IDES website.

Second Confirmed COVID-19 Case In Christian County

The second case of coronavirus has been confirmed in Christian County Thursday morning. The Illinois Department of Public Health confirmed that a second resident tested positive after presenting to a local hospital. The patient was then transferred to Springfield. The Health Department is encouraging all residents to practice social distancing and to stay at home if at all possible. Christian County Director of Public Health, Denise Larson says that the person is stable and improving. Chris-Mont Emergency Management Director Greg Nimmo says he is not giving out any further information for fear of backlash to the individual. Families and people in close contact with them have been getting notified.

 

 

If you have flu-like symptoms or have come into contact with someone with flu-like symptoms, you should call your medical provider for what to do. Do not report to a hospital or clinic. This will keep exposure down if in fact you do have the coronavirus.  Nimmo says the hospitals are maintaining as far as supplies go but there will still be a drive this weekend to help support getting PPE to our area hospitals. 

 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more information on what you can do to help. As far as numbers go, Montgomery County has 18 pending tests, 0 positive tests and 17 negative tests, Christian County has 2 pending tests 2 positive tests, and 17 negative tests, and Sangamon County has 265 pending tests, 6 positive tests, and 101 negative tests. Visit Taylorvilledailynews.com for more information on the COVID-19 outbreak.

IHSA Still Optimistic Spring Sports Season Could Happen

The Illinois High School Association, or I-H-S-A, is not ruling out the possibility of a partial spring sports season as nationwide the efforts are intensifying to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.

 

Craig Anderson is the Executive Director of the IHSA and tells Regional Radio News he does not have all the answers but his staff and their board of directors want to see a spring sports season happen but that will depend on when students return to class.

 

 

An option on the table at the moment is pushing the postseason back into the summer months. Anderson indicates this plan is based on what they know about a mid-to-late April of school resuming. 

 

 

There is fear the remainder of the school year could be shut down and Anderson says if officials are advising against students gathering in classrooms then they will not advocate for athletes to gather. He says an announcement of that nature would likely negate any possibility of having a spring sports season. 

Chris Mont EMA Announces New COVID-19 numbers; No New Cases; Gives Mental Health Phone Numbers; Addresses National Guard Rumors

During the Chris Mont Emergency Management Agency Press Release today, new numbers were announced for both Christian and Montgomery County. Christian County has 2 pending tests, 1 positive test, and 17 negative tests. Montgomery County has 18 pending tests, 0 positive, and 17 negative tests.  Christian County Information Officer, Mike Havera addressed some concerns over medical care and treatment.

 

 

If you are needing mental health treatment, Montgomery County Residents can contact the MCHD office at 1-888-324-5052 between 8 AM and 4 PM. After 4 PM they can call 217-313-4730. Christian County Residents can call the Memorial Behavioral Health Emotional Support Hotline at 217-588-5509. 

 

Mike Havera also addressed a rumor about the National Guard, stressing that the Guard will not be performing any policing of any kind.

 

 

Christian and Montgomery Counties are still actively looking for volunteers for the Medical Reserve Corps.

 

 

For more information visit the Chris-Mont EMA Facebook page.

Christian County Board To Meet Remotely Friday Afternoon

Christian County will hold a County Board Meeting on Friday afternoon, at 12:15 on March 27th. The meeting will be conducted via remote participation only.  To join the meeting, dial 1-408-418-9388. There will be a request to enter the meeting number. That number is 626 355 697 #.  

 

The agenda will include a Christian/Montgomery County EMA update. There will be an approval to extend the Emergency Declaration Proclamation dated March 20, 2020. A motion will be pushed to authorize payroll and payments of bills to continue during the Emergency Declaration. Any unknown business if in emergency status will be looked at. There will also be a section for public comments. 

 

For more information contact Jan Bland with the Christian County Board at 824-4011.

As COVID-19 Cases Soar To Over 1,800, Governor Pritzker Announces Relief For Families, Small Businesses

Governor JB Pritzker announced massive changes and help for small businesses, families, and employees during the shelter in place order given by the Governor to slow the spread of COVID-19. Governor Pritzker announced that tax filing has been delayed to July 15th. The Governor also announced help for small businesses. 

 

 

A small business stabilization program for downstate has also been launched for emergency grants to help small businesses that are being served by DCEO’s office of community development. Hospitality businesses will receive support from a grant program from the DCEO as well as job training. 

 

Governor  Pritzker also is working to alleviate financial stress on families as well. The DCEO has asked all banks to modify their loan structures to a three-month deferral or 6 months of interest-only payments for small businesses.

 

Governor Pritzker has also addressed mortgage assistance by asking the federal institutions like Freddie Mac to reduce the strain with multi-month forbearance for financial relief. The Governor has also asked for no punishments on credit ratings for the time being.  

 

There are 330 new cases of coronavirus in Illinois today with three more deaths.  This brings the total to 1,865 cases in 35 counties and 19 deaths. Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of Public Health, expressed her concern over the influx of cases that have been coming day in and day out, and the department of public health continues to learn and educate. Dr. Ezike says that to get tested it all starts with your clinician.

 

 

Treasurer Michael Frerichs spoke about the unclaimed property division and helping get people back their money to help in this time of need.

 

You can hear every Governor Pritzker press conference on the many NEWSTALK WTIM platforms every day at 2:30 PM. 

HSHS President Loren Hughes Continues To Provide Support And Information

The COVID-19 outbreak is an ever-evolving situation in a lot of ways because as more information is made available adaptations must be made. Dr. Loren Hughes, President of HSHS Medical Group, says that the testing protocol has recently changed.

 

HSHS Medical group is doing all they can to provide as much information as possible. Dr. Hughes says they are making sure to keep their website up to date with any information they receive from the CDC.

 

 

Above all else, Dr. Hughes says we need to be cognizant of when we are at risk, and do what we can to mitigate it. 

 

 

Information and press releases about the Coronavirus outbreak can be found on the HSHS Medical Group website link at www.shelbyhealth.net on this story on TaylorvilleDailyNews.com.

Taylorville School District Announces Extended Closure

When Governor JB Pritzker announced the Stay At Home order on Friday, that came with the added caveat that schools will remain closed as well. Nothing can be set in stone, but the Taylorville School District is hoping to reopen on April 13th. 

 

Dr. Chris Dougherty, Superintendent of Taylorville Schools, shared with Regional Radio News how they are still helping the students. 

 

 

The closure and the reopening date came from the state level. However, Dr. Dougherty says the potential reopening date of April 13th would time out well within the Taylorville School District schedule, should they able to resume. 

 

 

School might be out, but that doesn’t mean education can stop. Dr. Dougherty explains what students and parents can do to aid in continued learning.

 

 

For more information visit the Taylorville School District Facebook page.

CCEDC Announces Help For Small Businesses

Christian County Economic Development Corporation, or CCEDC, is not going to stand idly by while local business take a hit. They will do what they can to help. Executive Director of CCEDC, Mary Renner, says that right now the goal is putting together what she calls an outreach program.

 

 

One of the main avenues for help is a loan through the Small Business Administration (SBA). According to Renner, she and Becky Edwards went through training that allows them to help with the application process for any business that may need it. 

 

These are unprecedented times, but Renner says that CCEDC will be constantly looking for ways to help local businesses in Christian County.

 

 

For more information visit the Christian County Economic Development Corporation Facebook page. 

 

 

This is the verbiage in the letter that was sent out to Christian County Business Owners:

 

Dear Christian County Business Owner:
We are experiencing challenging times while we band together to combat the Coronavirus Covid-19.  On behalf of the Christian County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) Board of Directors, I am reaching out to you to provide assurance that we are here to aid you in identifying and accessing available resources to help your business through this difficult and challenging time.

 

Federal and state government officials are mobilizing assistance programs to address a variety of challenges to business impacted by the Coronavirus. Among the programs being considered by congress as a part of a $2 to 3 trillion dollar aid package to small business is a lender draw down of up to 250% of a businesses one month payroll. This will be in the form of a100% forgivable loan channeled through private lenders by the Small Business Administration (SBA) directly to impacted businesses.

 

When congress passes the final business assistance legislation, CCEDC can help you identify which of these programs best meets your individual need and provide help with applying for funds as well as direction throughout the application process.

 

At the appropriate time if we can help you, please call me at 217.638.5032 and I will be happy to assist you. We appreciate you doing business in Christian County and want to make sure that you have every available resource to help you grow and prosper in the county in the future.

 

Best Regards,
Mary Renner
Executive Director
Christian County Economic Development Corporation
108 W. Market Street
Taylorville, Illinois 62568
Email: r.consult@att.net
www.christiancountyedc.co

Chris-Mont EMA Warns Against Homemade Masks, Cyber Attacks, And No New COVID-19 Cases

Chris-Mont Emergency Management Agency held their daily press conference Tuesday and Christian County Information Officer Mike Havera addressed the media concerning how people can help. Mr. Havera said that while homemade masks are great for helping you to stop touching your face, they won’t protect you from contamination.

 

There is also a threat of cyber hacking through websites related to COVID-19. The Chris-Mont EMA is urging caution when opening website links.

 

Denise Larson talked a little about the testing protocol and how it is for those who are most critical.

 

The Chris-Mont EMA gave an update every day on the coronavirus outbreak in Christian and Montgomery Counties. Today’s totals for Christian County are 5 Pending Tests, 1 Positive and 14 Negative tests and for Montgomery County;18 Pending Tests, 0 Positive, and 17 Negative tests.

Governor JB Pritzker Advocates For More Testing;Praises National Guard; 250 New Cases, 4 New Deaths

Governor JB Pritzker addressed the State Tuesday with a daily press conference. The Governor stressed that testing is important. Testing not only for the symptoms of COVID-19, but also for the scale and severity of the outbreak.

 

 

Governor Pritzker says that the National Guard has opened up a testing site to collect specimens from Healthcare workers to help with figuring out how the coronavirus affects them.

 

 

Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of Public Health announced 250 new cases and 4 new deaths bringing the total to 1,535 cases in 32 counties.

 

 

You can listen to every coronavirus Press Conference from Governor JB Pritzker on our many NEWSTALK WTIM platforms every afternoon around 2:30 PM.

The Christian County Health Department Medical Reserve Corps Is Searching For Volunteers

Denise Larson is the Public Health Administrator at the Christian County Health Department and she talked with Regional Radio News to discuss the Christian County Health Department Medical Reserve Corps volunteer search.

 

Larson started out by discussing what it is that the Medical Reserve Corps does and how the only requirement is to be at least 21 years old.

 

 

Larson went on to say that if you’re interested in joining the Christian County Health Department Medical Reserve Corps to please call the Health Department at 824-4113.

 

 

For more information on the Christian County Health Department please visit christiancountyhealth.net or call 824-4113.

The Christian County Farm Bureau Is Collecting Unused Masks For Local Hospitals

Melissa McMillan is the Manager at the Christian County Farm Bureau and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National Agriculture Day to discuss the ongoing mask drive to collect unused N95, N99, and N100 masks for local hospitals.

 

McMillan started out by discussing how they were approached to do this drive to help out local hospitals.
 

 

McMillan went on to discuss how they’re looking for any unused N95, N99, and N100 masks that anyone may have around.

 

 

If you have any masks that you would like to donate please call at the Christian County Farm Bureau at 824-2940. Melissa McMillan with the Christian County Farm Bureau was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National Agriculture Day.

Nathan Rogers With The Christian County Farmers Supply Company Talks National Agriculture Day

Nathan Rogers is the Agronomy Marketing Manager at the Christian County Farmers Supply Company in Taylorville and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National Agriculture Day to discuss how agriculture drives industry in Christian County, how they at Christian County FS are ready to get to work once the weather cooperates, and how he has never witnessed anything like what happened last year.

 

Rogers started out by discussing how agriculture drives industry in Christian County.

 

 

Rogers went on to discuss how they at Christian County FS are ready to get to work once the weather cooperates.

 

 

Finally, Rogers discussed how he has never witnessed anything like what happened last year.
 

 

For more informaton on the Christian County Farmers Supply Company visit their website, christiancountyfs.com. Nathan Rogers with the Christian County Farmers Supply Company was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National Agriculture Day.

Andrew Holsinger With The U Of I Extension Office Talks National Agriculture Day

Andrew Holsinger is the Horticulture Educator at the University of Illinois Extension Office and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National Agriculture Day to discuss the importance of agriculture to the economy of the United States and how University of Illinois Extension fits into that and the tools that they have available to help educate farmers in Illinois.

 

Holsinger started out by discussing the importance of agriculture to the economy of the United States and how University of Illinois Extension fits into that.

 

Holsinger went on to discuss the Farmdoc Daily Live broadcasts that you can find at go.illinois.edu/fddlive.

 

 

Finally, Holsinger talked about the many different tools and resources that they have available online at extension.illinois.edu/cjmm.

 

Andrew Holsinger with the University of Illinois Extension Office was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National Agriculture Day.

Rep. Rodney Davis Talks About The Importance Of The COVID-19 Phase 3 Bill For Small Businesses

Congressman Rodney Davis talked with Regional Radio News about the COVID-19 phase 3 bill that’s currently being negotiated in the United States Senate and how important it is for small business owners, the programs that are currently available to small business owners who are struggling, and how it’s up to the State of Illinois to get personal protective equipment to hospitals across the state.

 

Congressman Davis started out by explaining how important the COVID-19 phase 3 bill is for small business owners.
 

 

Congressman Davis went on to talk about the programs that are currently available to small business owners who are struggling.
 

 

Finally, Congressman Davis discussed how it’s up to the State of Illinois to get personal protective equipment to hospitals across the state. 

 

 

Congressman Rodney Davis represents the 13th Congressional District of Illinois. For more information please visit rodneydavis.house.gov.

Illinois State Senator Andy Manar Talks About The Governor's Response To The COVID-19 Virus

Illinois State Senator Andy Manar joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss how he felt the Governor has responded to the COVID-19 crisis, the biggest challenges facing Illinois currently, why you should stay at home whenever possible.

 

Senator Manar started out by discussing how he felt the Governor has responded to the COVID-19 crisis.
 

 

Senator Manar went on to discuss the biggest challenges facing Illinois currently.

 

 

Finally, Senator Manar talked about why you should stay at home whenever possible.
 

 

Illinois State Senator Andy Manar was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp Talks COVID-19

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the recent “Stay at Home” order from Governor Pritzker and what he’s doing to keep the police officers, inmates, and staff safe from COVID-19.

 

Sheriff Kettelkamp started out by explaining the “Stay at Home” order from Governor Pritzker.

 

 

Sheriff Kettelkamp went on to discuss when it is appropriate to go out into the public.

 

 

Finally, Sheriff Kettelkamp discussed how he’s working to keep his officers, inmates, and staff safe from COVID-19.

 

 

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

ChrisMont EMA Holds Daily Press Conference; Encourage Social Distancing; 19 Pending Cases, 28 Negative

Social Distancing is important. This is the message that the Chris-Mont Emergency Management Agency along with the Christian County and Montgomery County Department of Health is trying to put out. Keeping a 6-foot rule between you and other people and just staying home will go a long way towards preventing the spread of the Coronavirus or COVID-19. Bryant Hitchings, Montgomery County Public Information Officer, stressed that this should be done to stop the spread.

 

 

Hitchings said first responders may be wearing full protective equipment more frequently than usual, that is for their safety. It does not mean that the person has the coronavirus.

 

Greg Nimmo, EMA Director says this is much bigger than us. It’s about caring for our neighbors.

 

 

Numbers today for Christian County: 5 Pending Tests, 1 Positive, 12 Negative and Montgomery County: 14 Pending Tests, 0 Positive, 16 Negative

Governor Pritzker Asks For More PPE For The State

The Governor of Illinois is making a plea for more Personal Protective Equipment or PPE. Governor JB Pritzker said, while some manufacturers have stepped up to provide Illinois with equipment, the State still needs more but the Governor insists that the State is making progress.

 

 

Governor Pritzker says that the State has not gotten nearly the amount of material they have wanted from the Federal Government.

 

Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of Public Health in Illinois announced that there are 236 new cases of coronavirus disease in Illinois with 3 new deaths in Cook County, 2 men in their 80s and 1 man in his 90s. Dr. Ezike again made a plea for more PPE. If you have it and you can spare it, please call the Governor’s Office.

 

 

You can listen to every Governor JB Pritzker Press Conference on NEWSTALK WTIM and the many platforms, at 2:30 PM each day.

Governor Pritzker Slams Trump; Requests Blood Donations; Nearly 300 New Coronavirus Cases

Governor JB Pritzker held his 14th press conference dedicated to the coronavirus outbreak, and made an urgent plea for blood donations. He also sent a fiery message to President Donald Trump accusing the President of not doing enough for the state after President Trump sent a fiery tweet at the Governor Sunday morning.

 

President Trump’s tweet said, 

 

"@JBPritzker, Governor of Illinois, and a very small group of certain other Governors, together with Fake News @CNN & Concast (MSDNC), shouldn’t be blaming the Federal Government for their own shortcomings. We are there to back you up should you fail, and always will be!”  

 

Governor Pritzker said it’s heartening to see Illinois Republicans joining with Democrats to see what they can do to help. The Governor said he is tired though of getting no support from the President who promised to help.

 

 

Director of Public Health Dr. Ngoze Ezike gave the update on new cases of COVID-19 in the State of Illinois, as there are 296 new cases of coronavirus and that number continues to rise. Over 8,300 people have been tested and there are 1,049 confirmed cases with 9 deaths. There are still concerns over whether or not a pregnant woman with COVID-19 can pass the virus to their children.

 

 

Celena Roldán, CEO of the Red Cross Illinois made an urgent plea for blood donations.

 

 

You can hear every press conference from Governor Pritzker on the coronavirus outbreak by listening to our many NEWSTALK WTIM platforms every day at 2:30 PM.

Chris-Mont EMA Announces No New Cases; 20 Pending Test Results

ChristMont Emergency Management Agency announced today that there have been relatively little changes since yesterday for coronavirus cases in Christian and Montgomery County. Bryant Hitchings, Montgomery Public Information Officer, announced that as of Saturday, at 4 PM in Christian County there are 3 pending test results, 1 positive case, and 9 negative tests.  In Montgomery County, there are 17 pending test results, 0 positive cases, and 5 negative test results.

 

The EMA would like to remind you once again, please stay home if you feel ill. Do not show up to your doctor, hospital, or emergency room unannounced. Please contact them first for instructions on what to do next. The EMA would also stress to please stay home if you do not need to go out. Grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies will remain open. You are asked to please be patient, courteous, and responsible while there. 

Sangamon County Announces Penalties For False Reporting And Violating Shelter In Place Order

Sangamon County has announced they are strictly enforcing penalties for false reporting related to the COVID-19 Virus and any non-compliance with public health orders. Dan Wright, Sangamon County State’s Attorney, announced on Saturday that his office is strictly enforcing criminal penalties for any dissemination of false information concerning the COVID-19 virus or failure to comply with the stay at home order.

 

Under Illinois law, any conviction of such offenses is a Class A misdemeanor subject to jail time of up to 364 days and potential fines of up to $2,500. If you submit a false report that would result in an emergency response by any public safety agency you can be charged with disorderly conduct, which is a class 4 felony and is eligible for a sentence of 1-3 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. If you see any price gouging or fraudulent schemes designed to take advantage of the pandemic, you are encouraged to contact your State’s Attorney’s Office. 

Physician's Choice Wellness Announces Updates

Physician’s Choice Wellness issued some new guidance and updates on ways that they are trying to continue to help improve your health. Through April 12th, Physician’s Choice Wellness will be offering 1-on-1 clinic visit/weigh-ins product pickup, and individual behavioral coaching available. They will have hours of these services available shortly. 

 

When product pickup is available there will be curbside service to avoid any unnecessary exposure or contact for high-risk patients. If you do have a doctor’s appointment, there will be teleconference medicine available to you at the time of your appointment. PCW continues to try to keep patients safe while continuing your weight loss journey.

 

For more information or questions, please contact Physician’s Choice Wellness at 864-2085.

City Of Taylorville Announces Postponement Of Lake Taylorville Campground And Lake Lots; Taylorville Park District Closed

The City of Taylorville announced that due to the Shelter in Place order put into effect by Governor JB Pritzker, the opening of the Lake Taylorville Campground and Lake Lots will be postponed until April 8th. The due date for leases and payments has been extended until April 7th.

 

The Taylorville Park District also announced that they are closed through April 7th. The order specifically states that individuals may leave their residence to engage in outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, running, or biking and may go to public parks and open recreational areas if they comply with the social distancing requirements, but playgrounds must be closed. Use of playgrounds on any park property is strictly prohibited. 

 

There is an urgent need for volunteers at the Taylorville Food Pantry on Tuesday morning. If you have any questions, please contact Mayor Bruce Barry at 287-7946 or 565-2363.
 

168 New COVID-19 Cases In Illinois; New Total Of 753 Cases

The Illinois Department of Health announced today that there are 168 new cases of COVID-19 in Illinois including another death. A man died in his 70’s from Cook County. IDPH is reporting that there are 753 cases in 26 counties in Illinois. Governor JB Pritzker clarified places that will still be open after the shut down that starts Saturday at 5 PM.

 

 

Governor Pritzker also had a message for everyone that has retired from the medical field or left the profession to come back.

 

 

Department of Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike, encouraged maximizing the state’s availability of PPE or personal protective equipment. 

You can hear every press conference on COVID-19 by tuning into any of our NEWSTALK WTIM platforms every afternoon at 2:30 PM. 

Christ-Mont Emergency Management Agency Gives Updates: No New Cases

At the Christian/Montgomery Emergency Management Agency Press Conference on Saturday. Brian Hitchings, Montgomery County Information Officer gave updates on the cases in Christian and Montgomery Counties with 23 pending test results in the two counties. 

 

 

Essential businesses such as health care, public health and safety, pharmacies and much more will stay open.

 

 

The press conference did end with a story of goodwill.

 

 

Chris-Mont Emergency Management Agency will be conducting a press conference every day at noon for updates on the COVID-19 outbreak.

Lisa Peterson With The University Of Illinois Extension Office Gives Some Food Freezing Tips

Lisa Peterson is the Nutrition and Wellness Educator at The University of Illinois Extension Office and she joined the NewsTalk WTIM Morning Show to discuss some food freezing tips and to discuss how The University of Illinois Extension Office is handling the COVID-19 virus.

 

Peterson started out by discussing how The University of Illinois Extension Office is handling the COVID-19 virus.
 

 

Peterson went on to discuss some food freezing tips including on how you can actually freeze milk.
 

 

Finally, Peterson discussed the importance of making sure your freezer is at or below zero.

 

 

For more information on The University of Illinois Extension Office please visit extension.illinois.edu/cjmm or call 287-7246.

Coronavirus Cases In Illinois Rise To 585 In 25 Counties; 5 Deaths Reported So Far; Testing Increasing

There are 585 cases of coronavirus cases in Illinois right now with 163 new ones today included in new counties like Adams, Christian, and McLean. Cases have occurred in residents ages 3 through 99. Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of Public Health says that the state is still working on making testing more efficient. 

 

 

There have been over 4,280 people tested and there have been 5 deaths in Illinois so far.  Dr. Ezike says that Walgreens and Walmart have been helping with testing as well who will focus on health care workers, first responders, and senior citizens.  Dr. Ezike says the state continues to work on hospital capacity. 

 

Governor JB Pritzker delivered a message of hope for those in Illinois who may think things are bleak right now.

 

You can hear Governor JB Pritzker’s Press Conference’s every day at 2:30 on NEWSTALK WTIM and streamed live at taylorvilledailynews.com.

Governor JB Pritzker Signs Executive Order Mandating "Shelter at Home"; Many Essential Tasks, Services Can Still Be Done

Governor JB Pritzker announced a “stay at home” order in his Friday press conference.

 

To read his Executive Order explaining what essential tasks and services can still be performed, click here.

 

This decision comes after states like California and New York have done similar actions. The order will take place on Saturday evening at 5 PM until April 7th. Governor Pritzker says that he has made this decision to do what we can to stop the loss of life in Illinois from the coronavirus.

 

 

Governor Pritzker explained that there is still a lot of things that you can do under the executive order like leaving the house to get food or go to a pharmacy.

 

The Illinois Governor reemphasized that roads will be staying open. You can still pick up food from restaurants and the State continues to try to stay as normal as possible. There will be some things that will be changing though.

 

Governor Pritzker has asked for all evictions to stop and is working on directing additional resources to help those with homelessness. Governor Pritzker also announced that school has postponed their tentative reopen date to April 8th but whether that happens remains to be seen.

Bob Ridings Of Pana Offering Free Lunches To Families In Need

With school being out of session for a while, Darren Seaton, who is the General Manager at Bob Ridings in Pana and his team decided to start offering free lunches for local families. Darren talked with Regional Radio News about why they decided to do this and how you can get a lunch if you’re in need of one.

 

Seaton started out by discussing how well the free lunch program has gone so far.

 

 

Finally, Seaton talked about how you can get a lunch by calling Bob Ridings of Pana at 562-3986.


 

For more information on Bob Ridings of Pana visit bobridingspana.com or call 562-3986.

Pana Community Hospital Changes Entry Procedures; Enforcing Screening

The Pana Community Hospital has issued a press release stating that starting today (Friday) there will be screenings for all people who enter the facility. The only entries will be through the main or emergency entrance.  All other entries will be restricted.  The restrictions also include the front entrance of Community Medical Clinic as well as the east doors leading into the Medical Mall.

 

Anyone that is entering the hospital will be directed to a screening area and answer a few questions; including do you have a sore throat, cough, fever, or shortness of breath along with if you have had contact with any person who is lab-confirmed COVID-19 within the past 14 days. 

 

If you answer yes to any of those questions, you will have to wear a mask and put hand sanitizer before coming into the front entrance. Patients seeking access into the Emergency Department will enter the first door where they will be greeted by the Emergency Registrar through an intercom. The registrar will ask the same questions and respond the same way. 

Health officials ask if you have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, you should call your healthcare provider first before coming to the hospital or your physician's office. For more information visit www.panahospital.com.

First Person In Christian County Tests Positive For COVID-19

A person in Christian County has contracted COVID-19. Mike Havera, public information officer, informed Regional Radio News that the person is following all quarantine rules and guidelines and self quarantining.

 

County Chairwoman Becky Edwards has made an emergency declaration for Christian County as part of the Emergency Plan for more resources if need be. Havera says that there may be other individuals that may be placed on home quarantine.

 

The public is asked to share trusted information on COVID-19 and to not spread false information about the virus.

 

 

Christian County Public Health Director Denise Larson says 13 people were tested, 6 came back negative, 1 came back positive, and they are still waiting results on 6 tests. IDPH does batch testing and result turnarounds usually are two to three days. No further details have been released about the Christian County resident who tested positive for COVID-19.

City of Shelbyville Offices Closing Monday Due To COVID-19

All City of Shelbyville Offices will be closed to the public beginning March 23, 2020 through at least April 6, 2020.  If you have an emergency please contact the department directly, if no one answers and you have an emergency, please contact the police department at 217/774-2141.

 

Water bills can be paid by using the drop box in the police department lobby, by mail, at Shelby County State Bank, Busey Bank, or Community Banks of Shelby County.  You may also pay by credit card by calling the water department office at 217/774-5131.   Additional fees do apply when paying by credit card.

 

If you have any questions, please call 217/774-5531.. 

Sullivan Superintendent Ted Walk Talks School Cancellation

Ted Walk is the Superintendent of the Sullivan Community UnitSchool District #300 and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Sullivan to discuss the planning and the process that they went through to get ready for the potential cancellation of school.

 

Superintendent Walk started out by talking about when they started having discussions about cancelling school.

 

 

Superintendent Walk went on to discuss how they got prepared for a potential lengthy closure by seeing what would be necessary to implement e-learning.

 

 

Finally, Superintendent Walk explained how they got teachers and staff prepared for how e-learning might work during a school improvement day.

 

 

Sullivan CUSD #300 Superintendent Ted Walk was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Patty Hornbuckle Talks About Helping Out At The Taylorville Food Center

Patty Hornbuckle is the CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss helping Taylorville Food Center restock their shelves and a Facebook Event Page called Taylorville Area Restaurants that was created to help restaurant owners.

 

Patty Hornbuckle started out by discussing how she spent some time helping restock shelves at the Taylorville Food Center.

 

 

Hornbuckle went on to discuss the Taylorville Area Restaurants Facebook Event Page.
 

 

Finally, Hornbuckle explained how the Taylorville Area Restaurants Facebook Event Page is working.
 

 

You can also email wtim@randyradio.com or call 824-3395 to have your restaurant hours and information posted on TaylorvilleDailyNews.com.

 

For more information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce please visit taylorvillechamber.com. Patty Hornbuckle with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Governor Pritzker Announces Relief For Restaurants; Addresses Rumors

Governor JB Pritzker announced in his daily press conference today that 3 more people have died from COVID-19 or the coronavirus. Deaths include one man in his 50’s from Will County, A Cook County resident in his 80’s and a visitor to Sangamon County. Governor Pritzker announced Thursday that certain stores are offering special hours just for senior citizens. The Governor also urged Illinoisans to stop hoarding and to start smart shopping. 

 

Governor Pritzker also announced relief for small and medium bars and restaurants.

 

Governor Pritzker has also announced that the National Guard is helping set up mobile test sites and helping hospital workers to treat those who are sick. There are now 422 cases in Illinois in 22 counties. The Governor also addressed rumors, saying that highways were NOT shutting down.

 

 

Governor Pritzker also addressed what it would take for him to put into place a shutdown saying that they are constantly monitoring the situation.

 

 

The Governor also mentioned that school is still set to resume on March 31st, but that there was a real possibility that could get postponed. You can listen to all of Governor J.B. Pritzker’s daily press conferences live on NEWSTALK WTIM around 2:30 every afternoon.
 

Local Dentists Told by American Dental Association to Close to Mitigate COVUS-19 Outbreak

Local dental offices have been instructed by the American Dental Association, to close except for extreme emergency cases due to the possibility of contracting the coronavirus.

The A-D-A on their web site, told their member dental offices around the country, to have patients postpone elective procedures to, quoting the statement on their web site, "mitigate the spread of COVID-19." End of quote.

The A-D-A added that the guidance they're giving their members may change as the pandemic progresses.

Best bet is to call your dentist in the event you have a previously scheduled appointment, to see whether they are open.

Florida Woman Visiting Springfield, Dies Of COVID-19

A woman from Florida who had been visiting the Springfield area died of the coronavirus on Thursday at Memorial Medical Center. She was 71. The woman was the first confirmed COVID-19 case in Sangamon County and becomes the first death in the area. 

 

Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Memorial Health System, Dr. Raj Govindaiah, says that now more than ever we call on our community to take care of themselves and each other. Dr. Govindaiah, also stressed that we have to do what we can to protect those who are most vulnerable to the virus including older adults and people with compromised immune systems.

 

There are currently 3 cases in Sangamon County of COVID-19.

TPD Arrests Two on Meth Charges

The Taylorville Police Department issued a press release on Thursday morning announcing the arrest of two men on drug charges. The Taylorville Police Community Action Team conducted surveillance at a residence in regard to drug trafficking.

 

The Police were receiving complaints and when TPD observed a vehicle leaving the residence, they conducted a traffic stop, recovering several grams of suspected methamphetamine and seized $1,903.00 in suspected drug proceeds.

35-year-old Joshua M. Spinner of Taylorville and 38-year-old Scott H. Patnode of Edinburg were arrested on possession of methamphetamine and possession with intent to deliver. 

 

Chief Dwayne Wheeler says that the Police Department understands that we are in a crisis, but bad elements do not stop dealing narcotics or committing a crime. Chief Wheeler warned that they are still acting on every complaint they receive and if you see something, say something.

 

Chief Wheeler is concerned that there might be a spike in crime due to the stress and unscheduled downtime that some have. If you see an issue, contact the Taylorville Police Department. 

 

While both men were arrested on charges, Regional Radio News wants to remind you that all subjects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

 

Coronavirus Cases In Illinois Rise To 288; Governor Announces New Website

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced today at his daily press conference that there is a new website completely dedicated to the COVID-19 virus outbreak in Illinois. Governor Pritzker says visit coronavirus.illinois.gov.

 

Governor Pritzker says to please take these warnings seriously.

 

 

Dr. Ngozi Ezike, State Director of the Department of Public Health confirmed that there are now 288 cases in 17 counties across Illinois and Dr. Ezike is continuing to urge citizens to stay home.

 

 

You can listen to Governor Pritzker’s press conference every day on NEWSTALK WTIM around 2:30 PM.

Memorial Health Systems Announces Updates For COVID-19

Memorial Behavioral Health is offering multiple ways to help you through the next couple of weeks and through the Coronavirus pandemic. Memorial Behavioral Health has a free emotional-support hotline for you to call.  Just call 588-5509, which is operated by trained mental-health professionals, and it is operated from 8 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week. Other telephone lines to reach include the national Crisis Text Line at 741741 and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or 1-800-273-TALK. Both of those services operate 24/7.

 

Memorial Health System is also waiving it’s $40 fee per visit for it’s free Memorialnow App. The Memorialnow app allows you to get a diagnosis from a doctor regardless of insurance status or whether the patient already uses a Memorial Health Systems doctor, nurse practitioner, or physicians assistant. MemorialNow is accessible 24 hours a day including holidays and is staffed by Memorial Nurse practitioners. The system is a good way to check for colds, flu-like symptoms, sore throat, fever, and skin rashes and if a prescription is needed, free delivery is available from select pharmacies. Providers can send prescriptions to any local pharmacies. 

 

Memorial Health System is also opening a respiratory screening clinic at its South Sixth ExpressCare location in Springfield at 10 AM to screen people for the COVID-19 virus. The clinic at 2950 South Sixth Street will operate seven days a week from 8 AM until 8 PM. People are encouraged to call the respiratory clinic hotline before they arrive at 588-4019. 

For more information on Memorial Health System and COVID-19 visit choosememorial.org/covid19. 

Christian-Montgomery EMA Puts Out Guidance On Coronavirus

The Christian-Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency is correlating with the Department of Public Health and has released information they would like the public to know about the coronavirus and its impact on Central Illinois. If you are sick and have respiratory symptoms, such as a fever, cough, and shortness of breath, stay home unless you need medical attention. Remain in your home until you feel better and have no symptoms. 

 

The only reason you should be tested for the coronavirus is if you have traveled to a foreign country that has issued a level 2 or level 3 designation in the last 14 days. These countries include China, Iran, South Korea, and most of Europe. You should also be tested if you have shown any symptoms of COVID-19 in the last 14 days and you should be tested if you have any symptoms of a lower respiratory infection.  If you need to be tested, please contact your healthcare provider by phone for a medical assessment. Do not show up unannounced. 

 

The Illinois Department of Health has implemented heightened surveillance to identify and test patients most likely to have COVID-19. Since there are only a limited amount of tests available, the CDC is limiting who is being allowed to test for the virus. 

 

The State of Illinois is also encouraging businesses across the state, to take advantage of teleworking capabilities for the time being. If you can work from home, you should be doing it in an effort to keep your other employees safe from the virus. For more information visit the Department of Health’s website. 

Illinois Elections See Victories for Biden, Curran, Londrigan, and Miller

The Illinois primaries happened last night and Joe Biden won the Illinois nomination with 59% of the vote handling things fairly easy, as Bernie Sanders only finished with 36% of the vote. In the US Senate Republican Primary, Mark Curran defeated Peggy Hubbard 41% to 22.9%. While Hubbard won in most central Illinois counties, Curran won almost everywhere else including Springfield, Peoria, Rockford, and Chicago. 

 

Democrat Betsy Londrigan will again face off against Republican Rodney Davis after defeating Stefanie Smith 76% - 23% for the 13th district. Republican Mary Miller will face off against Democratic candidate Erika Weaver as both women won in the 15th district for US Representative. 

 

In the 95th district for the Illinois House, Avery Bourne defeated Lawrence Oliver 85.5% -14.5%. The regular elections will be taking place in November of 2020. 

Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler Talks COVID-19

Chief Dwayne Wheeler is the Chief of Police in Taylorville, Illinois and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the policies that he has put into place to protect Police Officers from COVID-19, his concern of a potential crime spree in Taylorville, and how nothing has changed with the Safe Passage Program.

 

Chief Wheeler started out by discussing the policies that he has put into place to protect Police Officers from COVID-19.

 

 

Chief Wheeler went on to discuss his concern of a potential crime spree in Taylorville.

 

 

Finally, Chief Wheeler talked about how nothing has changed with the Safe Passage Program.

 

 

Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Pana Community Hospital's Amanda Harmston Talks About The Importance Of Education When it Comes To COVID-19

Amanda Harmston is the Case Management Manager and Infection Control and Employee Health Nurse at Pana Community Hospital and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the importance of education when it comes to fighting the coronavirus, the importance of communication among the staff, and the policy changes that have been put into effect to help protect the staff and patients at Pana Community Hospital.

 

Harmston started out by discussing the importance of education when it comes to fighting the coronavirus.
 

 

Harmston went on to discuss the importance of communication among the staff.

 

 

Finally, Harmston discussed the policy changes that have been put into effect to help protect the staff and patients at Pana Community Hospital.

 

 

For more information on Pana Community Hospital, please visit panahospital.com. Amanda Harmston was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Montgomery County Holds Election Results

Montgomery County had their elections on Tuesday and NEWSTALK WTIM brought live coverage throughout the evening. In contested election results, Joe Biden took the Democratic nomination for president over Bernie Sanders 66%-24%. Betsy Dirksen Londrigan defeated Stefanie Smith 78%-21% for the US Representative 13 District nomination. For the democratic nominating convention, Chuck Napier, Sue Scherer, Ellen Schanzle-Haskins, Mark Robert Maddock, and Ada Owens locked up the 5 spots, with Napier getting 15% of the votes. 

 

In contested election results on the Republican side, Donald Trump defeated Rocky De La Fuente 97%-2%. Mark C. Curran Jr. defeated Peggy Hubbard 35%-26% for the Republican U.S.Senate nomination. Avery Bourne defeated Lawrence Oliver 83%-16% for State Representative for the 95th District. For County Board Member District 2, Gene Miles and Jim Havera won the nomination over Chuck Graden. Miles had 37% of the vote. David K. Overstreet defeated John B. Barberis 75%-24% in the Supreme Judicial District 5 nomination. Katherine Ruocco defeated Mark M. Boie 50%-49% for the Appellate Judicial District 5. For the Precinct Committee Person (Irving) Kirby K. Furness defeated James E. Jones 56%-43%. 

 

Hillsboro voted yes on cannabis 50.27%-49.73%. The votes were 370-366.

 

For the Montgomery County Election results click here

Moultrie County Announces Election Results

Moultrie County had their elections on Tuesday and NEWSTALK WTIM brought live coverage throughout the evening. In contested election results, Joe Biden took the Democratic nomination for president over Bernie Sanders 66%-26%. Kevin Gaither won the Democratic Congressional 15th District Representative nomination with 53% of the vote. For the Congressional 15th District Delegate Democrat position, Natalie Phelps Finnie, Patrick H. Scates and Vivian Robinson won the nominations with Finnie leading with 23% of the votes.  For the Democratic County Board District At Large Member, Rita Florey defeated Gary P. Smith 54%-45%.

 

For the Republican contested election results, Donald Trump defeated Rocky De La Fuente 97%-2%. Peggy Hubbard defeated Mark C. Curran Jr. 28%-25% in the United States Senator Republican race. Mary Miller won for the Congressional 15th district Representative with 55% of the votes. 

 

For full election results click here

Shelby County Election Results

Shelby County had their elections on Tuesday and NEWSTALK WTIM brought live coverage throughout the evening. In contested election results, Joe Biden took the Democratic nomination for president over Bernie Sanders 69%-22%. Kevin Gaither won the Democratic Congressional 15th District Representative nomination with 28% of the vote. For the Congressional 15th District Delegate Democrat position, Natalie Phelps Finnie, Patrick H. Scates, and Vivian Robinson won the nominations with Finnie leading with 25% of the votes. 

 

For the Republican contested election results, Donald Trump won with 98% of the votes over Rocky De La Fuente. Peggy Hubbard won the Republican US Senator nomination with 32% of the votes. Mary Miller won the 15th District Representative nomination with 71% of the votes.  For County Board 2nd District, Mark A. Bennett won with 76% of the votes. David K. Overstreet defeated John B. Barberis 73%-26% for 5th District Supreme Court Judge and Katherine Ruocco defeated Mark M. Boie 51%-48% for Appellate Court Judge 5th Judicial District. 

 

In propositions, it was approved to repair the Chautauqua building 59%-40% and Cowden Village said no to the Liquor Sale Proposition 59%-40%. 

 

For full election results click here.

Christian County Announces Election Results

Christian County had its elections on Tuesday and NEWSTALK WTIM brought live coverage throughout the evening. In contested election results, Joe Biden took the Democratic nomination for president over Bernie Sanders 63%-27%. Betsy Dirksen Londrigan won 78%-21% for 13th District Representative. For the 13th District Delegate Democrats, Sue Scherer, Ellen Schanzle-Haskins, Chuck Napier, Mark Robert Maddock, and Ada Owens took the votes. With Sue Scherer leading with 14.19% of the votes. For the Democrat County Board 3rd District Member James Mike McClure won over Mark Passoni 51%-48%. 

 

For the Republican votes in Christian County, Donald Trump defeated Roque De La Fuente 98%-1.7%.  Peggy Hubbard defeated Mark C. Curran Jr. 37%-31% for Republican United States Senator. For the Republican County Board 1st District, Timothy J. Carlson and Leon Craig Corzine took the nomination 39% and 33% respectively. Under the Republican County Board 4th District Member Gene Price and Charles Smedley won with 34% and 27% of the vote defeating Becky Edwards and Mathew Heberling. David K. Overstreet won with 75% for Supreme Court Judge 5th Judicial District over John B. Barberis’ 24%. Katherine Ruocco defeated Mark M. Boie 55.85% to 44.15% for Appellate Court Judge 5th Judicial District. 

 

For full election results click here.

Gov. Pritzker Announces First COVID-19 Death In Illinois

Governor JB Pritzker spoke at his daily press conference today and started off with some sad news. The first COVID-19 death resulted in Chicago to a woman in her 60’s.

 

Governor Pritzker also announced updates to security and procedures at longterm facilities after finding  22 positive confirmed cases with 18 residents and 4 staffers coming down with COVID-19. Governor Pritzker is urging the White House Administration to get supplies to Illinois including more testing.

 

 

The Illinois Attorney General, Kwame Raoul spoke at Tuesday’s Press Conference threatening anyone who price gouges with stiff penalties.

 

 

Dr. Ngozi Ezike announced that there are now 160 cases of COVID-19 in 15 counties in Illinois. All Governor Pritzker press conferences can be heard on NEWSTALK WTIM at 2:30 every afternoon.

Christian County Closes Public Buildings Due To Coronavirus

The Christian County Elected Officials and Offices have met to discuss Public Service Efforts regarding COVID-19. While elections will proceed as normal, there will be other closings. The Christian County Courthouse, Regional Office of Education, Highway Department, Treasurer, County Clerk/Recorder, Tax Assessor, County Coroner, Public Defender, County Chairperson, Circuit Clerk, State’s Attorney, Probation, Solid Waste, Zoning/Animal Control all located in Taylorville will be closed to the public effective March 17th at 4 PM through March 30th, 2020. At that time, operations will be reevaluated.

 

Effective March 17 through March 30th, Offices will continue to operate albeit with a reduced staff. Some of these offices are needed for essential governmental functions. If you have an issue that is an emergency involving a closed office, contact one of the essential numbers and accommodations will be made if necessary. If you need court access regarding issues such as petitions for emergency and plenary orders of protection and stalking no-contact orders, contact the Circuit Clerk’s office at 824-4966. Plenary hearings on petitions for orders of protection and stalking no contact orders will be held in Courtroom A on the third floor of the courthouse on Friday, March 20th at 10 AM and Friday, March 27th, at 10 AM.  Only the parties and any witnesses will be allowed entry.

 

For other matters contact the following or send an email to one of the department Emails at Christiancountyil.com:

 

Zoning/Animal Control at 824-5433
County Clerk and Recorder 824-4969
County Board Chairperson at 824-4011
Highway Department at 824-2606
Regional Office of Education at 824-4730
Supervisor of Assessments at 824-5900
Treasurer at 824-4889
Solid Waste at 287-2334
Health Department at 824-4113
Probation at 824-4831
 

Taylorville Closes Public Buildings Due To Coronavirus

Mayor Bruce Barry has announced that all City of Taylorville Buildings are in fact closed to the public. All city of Taylorville departments will continue to operate and will be available by phone. Access to the Police Department and the Fire Department will be restricted to the lobbies. If assistance is needed please call the non-emergency numbers. Taylorville Police Department can be reached at 824-2211 and the Taylorville Fire Department can be reached at 824-2919. 

 

Water bills and lake lot payments can be made using the drop boxes located inside the municipal building or the alley to the south of the building. If further assistance is needed with the administrative offices please contact the City Clerks office at 824-2101 or the water collection department at 824-2919. 

 

If you have any COVID-19 concerns or questions, please call the Christian County Health Department between 8 AM and Noon or 1 to 4 PM Monday-Friday at 824-4113 or contact the Illinois Department of Public Health at 1-800-889-3931 for their 24/7 Coronavirus hotline.  You can also email idph.sick@Illinois.gov.  

Taylorville Mayor Says Spend Money in Taylorville

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry is urging local residents to use common sense in their daily activities.

 

The mayor on Monday issued a news release asking residents to stay in their homes.

 

In an interview with Regional Radio News today (Tuesday), the mayor said his comments might have been misconstrued, adding he wants the local economy to continue.

 

 

Mayor Barry added to use common sense when out and about.

 

 

Taylorville City Hall is closed to the public as a result of the ongoing corona-19 virus concern.

 

Lake Shelbyville Closes All Visitor Centers, Project Offices, Museums, And Beaches

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) St. Louis District will close all visitor centers, museums, beaches, and project offices to the public today while day-use areas and boat ramps will remain open and available.  USACE campgrounds that are currently open will honor active reservations through Thursday, March 19th. Any individuals with reservations on or before Thursday, March 19th will be able to camp for the entirety of their reservation. First-come, first-serve campsites will not be available after Thursday, March 19th. Further, reservations scheduled between March 20th -April 3rd  are canceled. Refunds will be provided through Recreation One-Stop (1-877-444-6777 or recreation.gov). Unopened USACE campgrounds will have an indefinite delay in their previously advertised seasonal openings. All other events, including USACE-sponsored events, interpretive programs, fishing tournaments, lock-and-dam tours and site visits scheduled from March 17th – April 3rd are now canceled.

Lake Land College Raises Restriction Level To Level 2

Effective March 17, in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Lake Land College will be implementing a Level 2 Restricted Campus policy. Only Lake Land College employees will be allowed access to the campus and extension sites. A Lake Land College police officer will be stationed in the main entrance of the Luther Student Center from 8 a.m. to 4 PM on Tuesday to address student or guest requests for access. Guests and students with a specific need to enter campus may call the Campus Police at 217-232-1908. As a safety precaution, spring break has been extended through March 22, during which time no classes will be held. When instruction does resume on March 23, all classes will be held in an online format until further notice All events scheduled to be held at any college location, whether college-sponsored or with outside organizations, will be canceled until further notice. 

Fourth Judicial Court Changes Procedures Attempting To Reduce Spread Of COVID-19

The Fourth Judicial Circuit Court is amending its procedures in an attempt to reduce the possibility of spreading the coronavirus. The following procedures are in place until at least March 30th, 2020. The following cases will be continued to a different date to be determined by the court; Civil and non-custodial jury trials, all traffic cases including driving under the influence, all criminal misdemeanor cases, all ordinance cases, all small claims cases, all family court cases, all child support cases, all pay-or-appear and compliance hearings, and all marriages.

 

The following cases will be held as usual; all in-custody cases including bond settings; all criminal felony cases with time constraints; all juvenile detention and shelter care hearings; all hearings involving emergency and plenary orders of protection; and any other emergency-type hearings at the discretion of the Resident Circuit Judge of each county. 

During the next two weeks, the probation departments, State’s Attorney Offices, and Public Defender Offices will still be able to meet the needs of their clients but will reduce in-person contacts. The Resident Circuit Judges of each county in the Fourth Circuit are afforded discretion to handle issues not covered by this Order as he or she deems necessary. 

 

The Circuit Clerk will provide notice to all litigants of the dates their cases will be continued to.

Taylorville Water Collection Office Limits Face To Face Contact

The Taylorville Water Collection Office is limiting face to face contact with the public. The office will remain open with baskets placed on the counter for payments, but the window will be closed. There are also 24-hour drop boxes in the alley behind the municipal building and in the lobby on the East side of the building. Cash overages will be credited to your next bill. Any credit/debit payments can be made on taylorville.net. There will be an e-Pay icon under Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry’s picture to make a payment. If you have any questions, please contact the office at 824-2919. 

 

Late fees will continue to be assessed and once-daily activities return to normal, requests to waive late fees will be considered on a case by case basis. All leak checks that must be performed from inside resident's houses have been suspended and meters will continue to be read from the outside. The Taylorville Water Department will not be entering any homes. 

Kim Wiley Talks About The Limited Visitor Policy That Shelbyville Manor Put Into Place

Kim Wiley is the Director of Marketing at the Shelbyville Manor and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Shelbyville to discuss the limited visitor policy that they recently put into effect and the daily employee screenings that are also taking place to keep the residents of Shelbyville Manor safe. Wiley started out by discussing the limited visitor policy that they recently put into effect.

 

 

Wiley went on to discuss what that policy entails and what it means for regular visitors at Shelbyville Manor.

 

 

Finally, Wiley talked about the daily employee screenings that are also taking place to keep the residents of Shelbyville Manor safe.

 

 

Kim Wiley with Shelbyville Manor was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our studios in downtown Shelbyville.

Patty Hornbuckle Talks About The LEAD Program's Visit To the Christian County Mental Health Association

Patty Hornbuckle is the CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the LEAD Program’s visit to Christian County Mental Health Association and the visit that they had at the Taylorville Fire House.

 

Hornbuckle started out by discussing the LEAD Program’s visit to Christian County Mental Health Association.

 

 

Hornbuckle went on to discuss the visit that they had at the Taylorville Fire House.

 

 

For more information on any upcoming Chamber event, please visit taylorvillechamber.com. Patty Hornbuckle with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Taylorville City Council Meet; Discuss 204 East Main Cross

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening and met, and well met. The meeting lasted for nearly two hours with quite a rather large discussion concerning the building at 204 East Main Cross, finances when it comes to hiring people, and of course the coronavirus. 

 

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry read a letter from Matthew B. Hardy from Benton & Associates saying that the building at 204 East Main Cross needed to be demolished.

 

 

After a very lengthy discussion, it was approved that the building should be torn down 6-2 with Alderman Megan Bryant and Ernie Dorchinecz voting “no”. 

 

With spring and summer coming, usually, the city of Taylorville hires seasonal help, along with some other positions including a new clerk at the City Clerk’s Office to help and to raise the position of a part-time dispatcher to full time. Alderman Larry Budd urged the council to reconsider, as he was very concerned about finances, especially if the coronavirus becomes bad in Christian County.

 

 

Hiring seasonal help for the 2020 season was tabled, but it was approved to hire a Full-Time dispatcher for the Police Department and to advertise for an Office Level 1 position in the City Clerk’s Office.

 

Mayor Barry talked about the building at 204 East Main Cross.  He says the next two weeks will be the most important two weeks of his Mayoral time. He urged patience and to stay home if at all possible due to the Corona Virus. 

 

To view the meeting in its entirety visit WTIMTV and click on our link here and here

Governor Pritzker Urges Voting Despite Coronavirus Threats

Governor JB Pritzker urged Illinoisans to go out and vote on Tuesday at Monday’s press conference live from Springfield. The CDC announced its strictest policies as of yet with limiting gatherings to 50 people or under.

 

Despite the closings of multiple facilities throughout the State, Pritzker said the elections would continue as normal albeit with a little bit of extra cleaning. 

 

 

Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of the Department of Public Health says that the amount of coronavirus patients has increased to 105.  New counties include Peoria and Will Counties.  Governor Pritzker continued to stress that just because it hasn’t reached your county doesn’t mean it won’t.

 

 

All of Governor JB Pritzker's Press Conferences can be heard live on NEWSTALK WTIM. 

Physician's Choice Wellness Is Taking Steps To Protect Their Clients From COVID-19

Physician’s Choice Wellness is taking the necessary precautions to keep their clients and the public safe from COVID-19 or the coronavirus. PCW’s Program Director Tara Nickerson talked about the steps that they’re taking to keep their clients safe, how some of their patients are only eating the food that they get from PCW, and how they’re now offering group classes on YouTube and via Zoom Video Conferencing.

 

Nickerson started out by discussing how some of their patients are only eating the food that they get from Physican’s Choice Wellness.

 

 

Nickerson went on to discuss how they’re now offering group classes on YouTube and via Zoom Video Conferencing.

 

 

Finally, Nickerson talked about the steps that they’re taking to keep their clients safe

 

 

For more information on Physican’s Choice Wellness, visit them online at healthylifestyleweightloss.com/ and find out the latest information on the coronavirus by clicking that icon we've posted on our menu bar of taylorvilledailynews.com.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry Gives Update On Coronavirus

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry issued a press release to the people of Taylorville to address what the city is doing to handle the coronavirus outbreak. Mayor Barry urges the public to stay home and limit the access that you have to groups like churches, grocery stores, and other public gatherings. You are encouraged to use other avenues to communicate such as cell phones, internet or email. 

 

If you think you may have symptoms or don’t feel well, please first call your Doctor’s office or clinic. Do not go to the office unless you call first. If you have any questions or concerns please call the Christian County Public Health Department at 217-824-4113.
 
If you need food, Mayor Barry is urging you to call his office at 287-7946.

 

As far as the City Council meeting Monday evening, it will be open to the public but Mayor Barry requests that you call the Mayor or your Alderman with any specific concerns and to limit access for the safety of City Officials, Superintendents, and other management. There will be no Youth of the Month or Volunteer of the Month and there will be limited access to the Municipal Building itself. Mayor Barry announced also that cleaning at the Municipal Building has increased to several times throughout the day. 

 

For more information on COVID-19 or to report a suspected case call 1-800-889-3931 or visit IDPH.illinois.gov. You can also contact Taylorville Urgent Care at 824-8244 or the Springfield Clinic at 287-8855 or HSHS at 321-9310.

Rosati's Pizza In Taylorville Loses Franchise

Rosati’s Pizza has terminated the franchise location with Rosati’s in Taylorville after public displays yesterday were made by owner Peggy Brandon against Governor J.B. Pritzker, after Pritzker closed down all bars and restaurants in an effort to combat the coronavirus. Rosati’s Pizza’s Corporate Offices in Warrenville, Illinois issued the statement Monday morning. Marketing Director Mark Schmidt said the decision was made because Rosati’s Pizza does not share the same beliefs with Peggy Brandon. 

 


 
Rosati’s in Taylorville has been taken off the locations page of www.rosatispizza.com. 

Taylorville Neighborhood Watch Set To Meet March 22nd

The Taylorville Police Department will be hosting the first quarterly Neighborhood watch meeting on March 22nd at 3PM and will last between an hour and an hour and a half on the bottom floor of the Municipal Building in Taylorville. Taylorville Police Officer Kirsten Bolinger says that the meeting will be covering a lot of topics depending on what the zone Captains want to discuss.

 

 

The neighborhood watch is often thought of as being just a way to watch out for crime, but it’s also a way to help those in your neighborhood who may be going through a rough time.

 

 

Officer Bolinger says there are many ways that you can get involved.

 

 

The Neighborhood Watch Group meets quarterly to discuss issues and topics important to the community.

Missions For Taylorville Gives Update On Fundraising Efforts

Dick Adams, continues to help Missions for Taylorville in their efforts to raise money towards helping families and those affected by the December 1st, 2018 tornado. Adams has been working on the latest fundraising campaign and says things are going fairly well.

 

 

Adams says that they have already helped 185 families but are looking to help more. 

 

Dick Adams says that Missions for Taylorville continues to set the bar for helping people who have come upon hard times.

 

Adams says if you want to help donate, you can mail checks to the Taylorville City Clerk made out to Missions for Taylorville and put tornado relief at the bottom.  That money will go directly to the mission group.

Taylorville City Council To Discuss 204 East Main Cross, Other Issues

The Taylorville City Council will meet on Monday evening at the Municipal Building at 7PM. Taking the center stage of conversations will be the property that had the roof collapse at 204 East Main Cross and how to handle it. Under ordinance discussion will be some zoning classification, along with amending certain ordinances dealing with the Taylorville City Code. 

 

Motions that will be discussed include advertising for a heavy equipment operator at the cemetery. The city will also look to approve the purchase of a 2020 Dodge Durango for the Taylorville Fire Department. The city will also discuss whether or not to be included in a class-action lawsuit against the liquid aluminum Sulfate Antitrust Litigation. 

 

Under personnel reports, a motion will be discussed to advertise an Office Level 1 position in the city clerk’s office along with hiring 18 summer/seasonal help for HBO, Street/Sewer, Cemetery, water, and lake departments. The city also wants to advertise for another full-time dispatcher position to bring the number to 5.

 

In Emergency Services, a motion will be recommended for allowing Fire Chief Matt Aderman to apply for an AFG Grant.

 

Under Lake and Airport, the city will be discussing lengths of the boat docks, amending the lake lot city code concerning campers, and forward the proposed FY 2020/2021 Lake Budget to the Finance Committee.

 

Under the Water and Environmental Committee, there will be a motion to discuss payment for the water treatment plant. The city is also looking at installing a 6 inch main outside of city limits to allow the residents in the Lakewood Subdivision to connect to city water. 

 

There will also be city attorney and Mayoral updates from Bruce Barry as well. 

Coronavirus Cases Nearing 100 In Illinois Including Sangamon And Clinton Counties

The number of confirmed cases in Illinois with the coronavirus is up to 93 people in 13 counties. These counties are scattered all over Illinois and include Champaign, Clinton, Sangamon, Winnebago and Whiteside Counties. Health Department Director, Dr. Ngozi Ezike says that the number is expected to rise dramatically in the next week and that people need to assume it’s already in their communities.

 

 

Dr. Ezike stressed that while most cases are mild, the transmission of it can really affect older people or people with chronic conditions. 

 

Dr. Ezike says that at the end of the day, it’s just important to stay home unless you absolutely need to go out.

 

Dr. Ezike spoke at the daily press conference held by Governor J.B. Pritzker to address the latest updates with the COVID-19 or coronavirus.  

Governor JB Pritzker Announces Temporary Closure of Bars And Restaurants; Drivethru, Delivery, And Takeout Still Available

Governor J.B. Pritzker announced Sunday afternoon, that starting Monday evening all bars and restaurants in the State of Illinois would be closed, with only drive-through and delivery accessible. This closure will take place until at least March 30th. Governor Pritzker said there are no easy decisions to make.

 

 

Governor Pritzker stressed that they will be keeping drive-thru, delivery, and pickup to stay open.

 

 

Sam Toia, President of Illinois Restaurant Association, says public safety is and will be the number one concern.

 

 

Governor Pritzker has been holding daily press conferences for the last week usually at 2:30 and they air on Newstalk WTIM.

Today's Pritzker News Conference on Coronavirus Outbreak Delayed; New Time Now 3pm

Today's Pritzker News Conference on the cornavirus outbreak, has been delayed.  Officials with the Governor's Office are telling us it will begin today at 3pm.

 

All of NEWSTALK WTIM's platforms--AM, FM, and on-line--will carry Pritzker's Daily News Conference on the coronavirus outbreak, live.

Schools Make Changes For Monday

Taylorville School District has announced a couple of things through their Facebook page, that needs to get addressed. Originally, Taylorville Schools were supposed to be in class on Monday, but have Tuesday, March 17- March 30th off. The School has announced that Monday will be no school as well.  

 

Due to recent health related developments in our area, no student attendance on Monday, March 16, 2020 for Taylorville School District. More information regarding learning opportunities and food pick up will be available Monday on www.tcusd3.org and social media.

We will have more information on food pick up and learning opportunities on Monday. Pana High School will be closed on Monday. Shelbyville School District will be closed on Monday.

 

The Athletic Department at Taylorville High School has also announced they will be on hiatus for the time being as well. 

 

Athletic Announcement

Effective at 12:01 am Saturday March 14, the athletic teams at Taylorville HIgh School will be on hiatus until at least March 31st for all practices and games. The athletic facilities will also not be available to students to work out on their own.

When it is time to resume practices, we will announce that and we will not participate in any interscholastic meets or games until a week after practice resumes. If you have questions, please email Paul Held at pheld@tcusd3.org

All games and meets are therefore postponed between now and Sunday April 5, 2020.

 

 Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more updates and visit our cancellations page for more updates on closings, cancellations, and suspensions.

NEWSTALK WTIM To Carry Governor Pritzker's Daily News Conference on Coronavirus Outbreak

All of NEWSTALK WTIM's platforms--AM, FM and on-line--will carry Governor J-B Pritzker's daily news conference on the coronavirus outbreak, at 2:30 each afternoon.  And, all 5 of our stations will have a summary of the daily news conference, in our local news updates after the news conference has concluded.  Stay with NEWSTALK WTIM and taylorvilledailynews-dot-com for the latest information on this outbreak.

 

First Cases Of COVID-19 in Central and Southern Illinois Discovered

Governor JB Pritzker and the Health Department announced that the total cases of COVID-19 now in Illinois stand at 64. The Illinois Department of Public Health has announced that there are new cases that have been discovered of COVID-19 or the coronavirus in central and southern Illinois today. A Woodford County resident in his 70s and a Cumberland County resident in his 70s both tested positive for COVID-19. Two St. Clair County residents have also tested positive including a woman in her 60s and a woman in her 70’s. 

 

A woman in her 60s from DuPage County that resides in a long term facility has also tested positive and the Illinois Department of Health is on the scene and working to identify all close contacts and protect the health and safety of all residents and staff at the facility. 

 

The state is starting to receive results from commercial laboratory testing, so the Department of Health expects that the number of cases will go up dramatically. The Department of Health continues to stress limiting activities in large groups and washing your hands often. Counties that have COVID-19 include Cumberland, DuPage, St. Clair, Woodford, Cook, Kane, and Lake Counties.

Christian County 4th Judicial Circuit Takes Steps To Limit Visitors

The 4th Judicial Circuit in Christian County will remain open according to Chief Judge Kimberly G. Koester and Circuit Judge Brad Paisley. They will monitor the state and local responses to the Corona Virus and have said that they will follow the guidance provided by the state and local public health agencies and the CDC. Chief Judge Koester and Circuit Judge Brad Paisley also announced that the following steps will be taken to temporarily reduce the number of people entering the courthouse.

 

Courthouse security officers will be screening everyone entering the courthouse for signs of an infection. If an infection is detected, entry into the courthouse will not be allowed. If you have a court date, you should leave your name with courthouse security and your case will be given a continuance.

 

A plan has also been put in place by Chief Judge Koester and Circuit Judge Paisley to reduce the number of trials and the number of jurors necessary for service. If you receive a summons for jury duty and have symptoms of any kind please contact the Christian County Circuit Clerk’s office at 824-4966 between 8am and 4pm weekdays. Your jury duty service will be moved to a later date. The court will also be expanding the use of remote court appearance through the use of conference calls and any criminal case with an individual in custody will be handled through the use of video conferencing.

 

The Christian County Problem Solving Court will be canceled for the next 14 days. The only exception is to those individuals as directed by the Problem-Solving Court Team. Marriages will continue to be performed at the courthouse, but only the couple being married is allowed to attend. The Christian County Probation Department will remain open as will the State’s Attorney and the Public Defender’s office.

Christian County Jail Visits Restricted After Sunday

The Christian County Jail is suspending all public inmate on-site visitation until further notice after Sunday. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says that in an effort to keep COVID-19 from spreading throughout the jail, after the Federal visitation on March 14th, visiting with inmates will only be allowed through the jailatm.com website.

 

 

Sheriff Kettelkamp says that established clergy visitation will still be allowed, but clergy will have to be screened prior to entering. Attorneys will also be screened as well. Sheriff Kettelkamp says that they continue to do what they can to keep the jail clean and the inmates safe.


 

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor the situation and visitations will be reinstated as soon as it is safe to do so.

All Schools In Illinois Closed Tuesday, March 17th Until March 30th

Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced that all Illinois Public Schools will be closed starting Tuesday, March 17th in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Governor Pritzker announced in a press conference that all public and private schools will close and stay closed at least through March 30th. 

 

Governor Pritzker says that the State can’t rely on the Federal Government anymore and they must do what we have to do to keep transmission rates low.

 

With that in mind, Governor Pritzker announced school closings for everyone until at least March 30th.

 

 

The Illinois Governor says that he must weigh the benefits and the risks and that this is the best possible outcome. 

 

 

Regional Radio News was unable to get a hold of Taylorville School District for a statement.

Christian County Senior Citizens Center Cancelling Activities and Suspending Congregate Meal Settings

The Christian County Senior Citizens Center will be making some changes due to the COVID-19 Virus. Jennifer Verardi, the Transportation Director at the Senior Citizens Center, informed Regional Radio News that all congregate meal settings and events have been suspended. Verardi explains about some of the changes.

 

Verardi says that all of this is precautionary to keep risk at a minimum.

 

 

For more information, please visit the Christian County Senior Citizens Center Facebook page.

COVID-19 Updates

The State of Illinois has now updated the list of COVID-19 infections to 68 cases including some in Central Illinois. With the situation of COVID-19 constantly changing, we here at Regional Radio News are trying to give everyone the most up to date news and information about closings, cancellations, and suspensions. Visit our school closings/cancellations page on Taylorvilledailynews.com to receive up to date information about events and activities that will be changed. Take precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you have a cancellation or a suspension/closing due to the COVID-19 Virus, please give us a call at 824-3395 or message me at wtim@randyradio.com.

John W. Hursey Jr. Talks About His Run For The 15th Congressional District

John W. Hursey Jr. is a candidate for the 15th Congressional District in Illinois and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Sullivan to discuss his background, why he decided to enter the race, and why he says that he’s the values based candidate.

 

Hursey started out by discussing his background.
 

 

Hursey went on to discuss why he decided to enter the race.
 

 

Finally, Hursey talked about why he says that he’s the values based candidate.
 

 

John W. Hursey Jr. was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Center in Sullivan.

Peace Meal Congregate Sites To Temporarily Only Have Carry-Outs

In an abundance of caution during the COVID-19 outbreak, the Illinois Department of Aging has decided to temporarily change all senior nutrition sites to carry-out only at Peace Meal Congregate Sites.  Barbra Wylie, Program Director of the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health System explains.

 

 

Wylie says they don’t know when the hold will be lifted.

 

 

Getting information from a reliable source is always important, but Wylie stresses to continue to get solid nutrition when you can.

 

 

For more information on Peace Meals call 1-800-543-1770.

Kerry Wolff Talks About His Run For The 15th Congressional District

Kerry Wolff is a candidate for the 15th Congressional District in Illinois and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Sullivan to discuss his background and why he calls himself a Ronald Reagan conservative.

 

Wolff started out by discussing his background.

 

 

Wolff went on to discuss the opportunity that he had to travel the world.

 

 

Finally, Wolff talked about why he calls himself a Ronald Reagan conservative.
 

 

Kerry Wolff was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Center in Sullivan.

Dr. Delvalle With HSHS Medical Group Stresses To Not Stress COVID-19

COVID-19 has become quite a changing situation with new information coming every minute of the day, but helping to answer some information about the Coronavirus is Dr. Rick DelValle with HSHS Medical Group. As of this reporting, there has not been a case of COVID-19 reported to HSHS Medical Group. Unless someone has had prolonged, close contact with a person who has coronavirus, it is unlikely they will become infected. Dr. DelValle explains why they are calling COVID-19 is a pandemic.

 

 

Dr. DelValle says that the best thing you can do to prevent getting the virus is to wash your hands and to not visit areas that are heavily infected.

 

 

HSHS Medical Group continues to work with the CDC to be at the forefront of helping with public health.

 

For further information on the coronavirus, please visit the cdc.gov website.

Connie Young Talks Life's Journey Senior Living And Memory Care

Connie Young is the Sales Director at Life’s Journey Senior Living and Memory Care and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss where they’re located throughout Central Illinois, how they’re different from a nursing home, and some of the activities that they do with the residents.

 

Young started out by discussing where they’re located throughout Central Illinois.
 

 

Young went on to discuss how they’re different from a nursing home.
 

 

Finally, Young talked about some of the activities that they do with the residents.

 

 

Connie Young with Life’s Journey Senior Living and Memory Care was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Paige Seitz Joins Seitz Funeral Home In Moweaqua

Paige Seitz is with Seitz Funeral Home and has joined a family business that has been operating in Moweaqua for over 40 years. Paige just finished up college and talked about why she wanted to join the family business.


 

Paige says that it is rewarding to be able to help families who are suffering to give them a little comfort after their loved ones pass away.

 

 

Helping families and handling phone calls plays a big part in the role of what Paige Seitz’s job is.

 

 

Paige says she is excited to be in Moweaqua and is looking forward to helping the community. For more information on Seitz Funeral Home www.seitzsfh.com or call 768-4435. 

IHSA Limiting Attendance For Rest Of State Finals & Other Winter Activities

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) announced Thursday morning, that it will limit attendance at the remaining games in the 2020 IHSA Boys Basketball State Series, as well as multiple other IHSA events, in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19 or the Coronavirus. 

 

This decision was made after consultations with the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the Peoria City/County Health Department. The Peoria Health Department has made a recommendation that no more than 60 spectators per school be allowed in the arena for all State Finals. 

 

Other games that will be impacted will include the 2020 Class 1A/2A Boys Basketball State Finals, and the remaining games for Class 3A and 4A. The IHSA State Series’ in Debate, Drama & Group Interpretation, Scholastic Bowl, and multiple other events have been limited in attendance or canceled completely. 

 

Full refunds will be available for any tickets that have already been purchased for the remaining contests. For more information visit the IHSA website. 

Raedena Ryan With The Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation Talks Education Grants

Raedena Ryan is the Executive Director of the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation Education Grants including how the education grant works and how the application process works.

 

Ryan started out by discussing the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation Education Grants.
 

 

Ryan went on to discuss how the education grant works.

 

 

Finally, Ryan talked about how the application process works.
 

 

Raedena Ryan with the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Kate Graham Named The Central Illinois Big Smile Family Dentistry Big Smile For The Community Recipient For March

Kate Graham is a founding member of the Clinton J. Hornbuckle Memorial Foundation. The Foundation, which helps raise money for transportation to sporting events for all Taylorville Junior High and Freshman Sports teams, has been fundamental to Taylorville Athletics. Graham talks a little about why she started the foundation.

 

Graham says that despite roadblocks towards using the money, she was finally able to put the money to good use through transportation.

 

 

Graham says that they will be having some more events coming up to help raise money towards youth sports and transportation costs.

 

 

For all of her hard work towards the youth and the community, Kate Graham has been named the Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry “Big Smile For the Community!” for the month of March. Regional Radio News Salutes you Kate for everything you do.

 

Michel French With The Triangle Pub In Stonington Talks About Their Daily Specials

Michel French is the Manager at the Triangle Pub in Stonington and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss what they have to offer, their daily lunch specials, some of the favorite meals that they offer, and the daily beer specials.

 

French started out by discussing what it is they have to offer customers at the Triangle Pub in Stonington.

 

 

French went on to discuss their daily lunch specials.

 

 

Finally, French talked about some of favorite meals that they serve and the daily beer specials.

 

 

Michel French with the Triangle Pub in Stonington was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Fingerprinting For Safety Event To Be Held Saturday At Big R In Taylorville

The Taylorville Police Department is putting together a safety program for children to help families be prepared in case of an emergency. TPD will be giving out a Child Identification Kit on Saturday, March 14th from 11-3 at Big R in Taylorville at 1160 E 1500 North Road in Taylorville. This Child Identification Kit will have a fingerprint kit, a place for a photo, dental records, and more. TPD Officer Kirsten Bolinger says that this is a wonderful way to be prepared for any situation.

 

 

Bolinger also says that the parents will be the only ones that will have access to the kits. 

 

 

Bolinger says that the kits will be a huge help in case of a worst-case scenario in ways to help identify and find a child in case of an emergency. With that being said, it’s important to have an updated picture of your children.

 

 

For more information, you can visit the event page through the Taylorville Police Department Facebook page.

Kevin Gaither Talks About His Run For Congress

Kevin Gaither is a candidate for the 15th Congressional District in Illinois and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Sullivan to discuss how Sullivan is his home town, his work in healthcare, and his thoughts on the 15th Congressional District.

 

Gaither started out by discussing how Sullivan is his home town.

 

 

Gaither went on to discuss his work in healthcare.

 

 

Finally, Gaither talked about his thoughts on the 15th Congressional District.
 

 

Kevin Gaither was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Center in Sullivan.

House Republicans Asking For Suspension Of Automatic Voter Registration After Multiple Errors

With the Illinois primary coming up in less than a week, State Representatives Avery Bourne and Tim Butler are calling for an audit and suspension of the Illinois Automatic Voter Registration (AVR) system. The system has had issues since being implemented in January. The latest issue has caused more than 1,100 valid voter registrations to be wrongly coded as opting-out instead of actually being registered.  Representative Bourne says it has to be suspended until the multiple issues are fixed.


 

Bourne says there are strengths with the AVR, but not at the expense of the integrity of elections.

 

 

Representative Butler says that maybe the Secretary of State’s Office isn’t the best place to be doing voter registration.

 

The Office also made the mistake of sending 4,700 16-year-olds through the AVR system for pre-registration before the error was caught and fixed.

Structural Collapse Closes Part of East Main Cross In Taylorville

A Structural collapse on Wednesday afternoon on the 200 Block of East Main Cross Street in Taylorville has closed part of the road. East Main Cross will be closed from Walnut to Pawnee until further notice.  The Taylorville Fire Department is asking you to please stay away and do not pass the barriers or the barrier tape as this is for your safety. Officer Nicholas Zepin with the Taylorville Fire Department informed Regional Radio News that the building was unoccupied and there were no injuries in the collapse.

 

 

 

All pictures courtesy of the Taylorville Fire Department.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital Holds Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Taylorville Memorial Hospital had its first day of seeing patients in the new wing on Wednesday. Along with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, members of Taylorville Memorial Hospital were around to answer questions and help escort people where they needed to go. After transferring patients at 6 AM from the old area of the hospital to the new wing in the hospital, CEO and President of Taylorville Memorial Hospital Kim Bourne said it was smooth as silk.

 

 

Bourne says that it has been great to see the transition and watch it go from paper to actually stand in the new area. 

 

 

TMH patients have been very happy and were amazed to come over to the new inpatient area.

 

 

For more information on TMH visit them online at www.taylorvillememorial.org. 

 

Taylorville Kiwanis Hears About Taylorville Fire Department at Weekly Meeting

 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from a Captain with the Taylorville Fire Department, during their weekly luncheon Tuesday at the club’s new meeting place, the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  Kiwanis member Adam Jeffrey (right) was this week's program chair.

 

Nick Hackney (left) told Kiwanis members he's been a firefighter since 2000, and full-time with the Taylorville Fire Department since 2005.  Hackney was promoted to Captain in January of this year.

 

Hackney gave an inspirational and personal overview of the December 1, 2018 tornado, responding to calls all night knowing that his own residence was completely destroyed.  He told Kiwanis members he was glad his family was safe at the firehouse, and was amazed at the response of help from everywhere.  

 

Hackney said that people in the Taylorville community are still seeking emotional and financial help as a result of the December 2018 tornado.

 

Hackney gave Kiwanis members a brief overview of the Taylorville Fire Department of today.  It operates with a Chief, Assistant Chief, 3 Captains, and 3 shifts of firefighters that work 24 hours on and 48 hours off.  He called it a great career.

 

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.

Patty Hornbuckle Talks Business After Hours

Patty Hornbuckle is the CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the upcoming Business After Hours that will take place at Behind Locked Doors on Wednesday, March 18th from 4:30 until 6:30.

 

Patty Hornbuckle started out by discussing the upcoming Business After Hours that will take place at Behind Locked Doors.

 

 

Hornbuckle went on to discuss the fact that Behind Locked Doors came up with an idea that keeps people and families entertained.
 

 

For more information on any upcoming Chamber event, please visit taylorvillechamber.com. Patty Hornbuckle with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Sarah Haslett With The US Army Corps of Engineers Talks Fish Habitat Improvement Day

Sarah Haslett is a Natural Resource Specialist with The US Army Corps of Engineers and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Shelbyville to discuss Fish Habitat Improvement Day on Saturday, March 21st at the Eagle Creek Boat Ramp. Volunteer signups start at 8:30 and the event kicks off at 9am that Saturday morning.

 

Haslett started out by discussing the event itself.
 

 

Haslett went on to discuss how the event is a little bit different this year.
 

 

Finally, Haslett talked about another project that the Fish Habitat Alliance is working on.
 

 

Sarah Haslett with the US Army Corps of Engineers was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our studios in downtown Shelbyville.

Trout Fishing Season Opens In April; Manners Park Not Included This Spring

The 2020 Illinois Spring Trout Fishing Season is set to open on Saturday, April 4th. Trout can be caught in 56 ponds, lakes, and streams throughout the State of Illinois. There will be a catch and release trial period that will open March 21st. While you can’t keep the fish, it does give you a good opportunity to get out there and find some good spots. Trout may be kept after the regular season begins on April 4th.

 

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) stocks more than 80,000 rainbow trout each year in bodies of water where trout fishing is allowed. Another 80,000 will be added in the fall. If you want to fish you must have a fishing license and an Inland Trout Stamp. The daily limit for fish caught is 5. 

 

Normally, Manners Park Pond in Taylorville is stocked but it will not be stocked this year as the park is still working on-site maintenance. There are plenty of other places in the area that you can go to, including  Sportsman’s Club Pond from the Macon County Conservation District, Wyman Lake in Sullivan, Southwind Park, IDOT Lake, and Washington Park Pond in Springfield, and Forest Park Lagoon in Shelbyville.

 

Fishing licenses and Trout Stamps are available now at DNR Direct license and permit locations. You can find a place that will sell you a license by visiting the IDNR website or calling 1-888-6PERMIT or 1-888-673-7648.

 

For more information on individual locations and their opening times, contact the individual sites.  For a full list of all 56 lakes, visit the IDNR website.

Natalie Inman With Shelby County Community Services Talks Marijuana Legalization

Natalie Inman is with Shelby County Community Services and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Shelbyville to discuss how the legalization of marijuana has changed their organization, how their 8 week program works, and what difficulties they face everyday.

 

Inman started out by discussing how the legalization of marijuana has changed their organization.
 

 

Inman went on to discuss how their 8 week program works.
 

 

Finally, Inman talked about what difficulties they face everyday.

 

 

For more information about Shelby County Community Services please visit their website, sccsil.org. Natalie Inman with Shelby County Community Services was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our studios in downtown Shelbyville.

Memorial Health Systems Releases New Diagnosis App

Memorial Health Systems is working on streamlining health care with a new app for your phone. MemorialNow, is a secure, internet-based service available to adults who are 18 and older. The app is staffed by nurse practitioners from Memorial, can diagnose multiple symptoms and treat non-emergency illnesses. The app works from 7 AM to 7 PM. If you message the app during non-business hours the service will get back to you the next morning.

 

MemorialNow is not appropriate for moderate or severe medical problems or for emergencies and the service costs $40 per visit. Patients will not be charged unless a diagnosis and treatment plan is made. 

 

To use the app, patients must first download the app on their smartphone from either iTunes or Google Play by searching for MemorialNow and setting up a profile. Patients will be asked questions and submit symptoms and receive a treatment plan within the hour. 

 

For more information, visit memorialnow.com or call 1-877-803-0577.

Christian County Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi Talks All Gardener's Day

Gwen Podeschi is a Christian County Master Gardener and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the upcoming All Gardener’s Day that will take place in Litchfield from 8-12 at the Holy Family Catholic Church Parish Center on Saturday, March 14th.

 

Podeschi started out by discussing the upcoming All Gardener’s Day.
 

 

Podeschi went on to discuss some of the sessions that will be available at All Gardener’s Day.
 

 

Finally, Podeschi discussed how there will also be venders at All Gardener’s Day.
 

 

For more information on this event please visit, extension.illinois.edu/cjmm. Christian County Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

State Representative Avery Bourne Talks About The New Director Of Agriculture Jerry Costello II

Illinois State Representative Avery Bourne joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the appointment of Jerry Costello II to be the next Director of Agriculture, some good advice for keeping yourself and your loved ones safe from the coronavirus, and a recent briefing that was held for legislators on the coronavirus.

 

Representative Bourne started out by discussing the appointment of Jerry Costello II to be the next Director of Agriculture.

 

 

Representative Bourne went on to discuss some good advice for keeping yourself and your loved ones safe from the coronavirus.

 

 

Finally, Representative Bourne discussed a recent briefing that was held for legislators on the coronavirus. 

 

 

Illinois State Representative Avery Bourne was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Taylorville Community Credit Union In Permanent Location In Pana

Taylorville Community Credit Union in Pana is in a new permanent location and has been there for about three weeks. President Will Perkins says that it is extremely nice to have a full location with a full ATM drive-up facility and night time deposit as well. 

 

 

Perkins says they will be doing an open house at some point in the near future.

 

Perkins continues to thank the community and his employees for their hard work and appreciates everyone’s support throughout the entire process.

 

For more information on TCCU visit them online at https://www.taylorvillecommunitycreditunion.com/. You can visit their location at 101 E. 5th Street in Pana or call them at 562-2516.

 

Ariel Short Talks About The Upcoming Shelby County Chamber Of Commerce Annual Dinner

Ariel Short is the Director of the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Shelbyville to discuss the upcoming Annual Dinner on March 12th at 5:30 at Spruce Street Studios and the Bar Stool Open that will take place in Shelbyville on April 18th from 1 - 6:30.

 

Ariel Short started out by discussing the upcoming Annual Dinner.

 

 

Short went on to discuss what they’ll cover at the Annual Dinner.
 

 

Finally, Short discussed the upcoming Bar Stool Open.

 

 

For more information on any upcoming Shelby County Chamber of Commerce event, please visit greatershelbyville.com. Ariel Short with the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our studios in downtown Shelbyville.

Coronavirus Causing Investment Markets To Have Crazy Week

The stock market continues to be volatile and fluctuate especially after the last week and a half amidst concerns from the coronavirus. Robbie Johnson, a registered investment advisor at CHS in Taylorville says that it’s been quite an interesting week.

Johnson says now is as important of a time as ever to remember that the market can change and if you are going to invest make sure you are in it for the long haul.

 

 

Johnson took a look at the future of the markets and what senior citizens do if they are investing.

 

 

For more information on investing, visit CHS Investment Management online at cshinvestments.com.

Taylorville School Board Approves School Improvement Plans

The Taylorville School Board met this evening at the Administration Education Center in Taylorville to discuss old business, new business, give a strategic planning update, update the new technology distance grant, discuss the CMS Musical Instruments Grant, give an update on the new school resource officer, and approve the school improvement plans for Taylorville High School, North Elementary School, and Memorial School.

 

Superintendent Dr. Chris Dougherty started out by discussing the qualifications of the brand new School Resource Officer, Alan Mills.
 

 

Board President Stephen Turner went on to discuss the importance of the CMS Musical Instruments Grant and how it can help the music department moving forward.
 

 

Finally, Dr. Chris Dougherty talked about some of the different aspects of the school improvement plan.
 

 

The next school board meeting is on April 13th at 7pm at the Administration Education Center in Taylorville.

Patty Hornbuckle Talks LEAD And Sunshine And Shopping In The Ville

Patty Hornbuckle is the CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the LEAD Program’s recent Economic Development and Service Organization panels, what the LEAD Program will be doing this week, and the upcoming Sunshine and Shopping in the Ville event.

 

Patty Hornbuckle started out by discussing the LEAD Program’s recent Economic Development and Service Organization panels.

 

 

Hornbuckle went on to discuss what the LEAD Program will be doing this week.
 

 

Finally, Hornbuckle talked about the upcoming Sunshine and Shopping in the Ville event.

 

 

For more information on LEAD or any upcoming Chamber event, please visit taylorvillechamber.com. Patty Hornbuckle with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Tara Nickerson With Physician's Choice Wellness Talks About The Cost Of Being Overweight

Tara Nickerson is the Program Director at Physican’s Choice Wellness and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss how they’re gearing up for spring, how Physician’s Choice Wellness isn’t just for those individuals who need to lose a lot of weight, and the costs associated with being overweight.

 

Nickerson started off by discussing how they’re gearing up for spring.

 

 

Nickerson went on to discuss how Physician’s Choice Wellness isn’t just for those individuals who need to lose a lot of weight.

 

 

Finally, Nickerson talked about the costs associated with being overweight. 

 

 

For more information on Physican’s Choice Wellness please visit healthylifestyleweightloss.com. Tara Nickerson was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

$8.3 Billion Package To Fight Coronavirus

With a fifth resident in Illinois coming down with COVID-19 or the coronavirus, the state of Illinois has worked on increasing the amount of care and attention they are bringing to the virus. The latest individual is in their 20’s and flew into Chicago O’Hare Airport earlier this month after traveling to Italy. The patient is currently in isolation and quarantine. 

 

State Representative Rodney Davis says Illinois is doing the best they can to protect their citizens and public awareness matters. and if there is no soap in the dispenser to let someone know. 

 

 

Representative Davis late last week voted for an $8.3 billion dollar funding project to help fight the coronavirus. As part of that package, more than $4 billion to make diagnosis tests more broadly available, $2.2 billion for the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention Centers (CDC). $20 million to administer disaster assistance loans for small businesses and $1.25 billion for the State Department and the US Agency for International Development (USAID). 

 

Davis says if you see that there is no soap in the dispenser to let someone know, don’t just post it on social media.

 

Illinois was the first state to be able to test for COVID-19 and the Illinois Department of Public Health continues to test for the virus in all three of its laboratories in Chicago, Springfield, and Carbondale.

McClure Funeral Home To Host Funeral Planning Question And Answer Event On March 18th

Scott McClure is is the owner of McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the upcoming Funeral Planing Q & A event that will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, March 18th starting at 2pm.

 

McClure started out by discussing why it is that they hold this event.

 

 

McClure went on to discuss the different types of questions that they get asked at this event each year.

 

 

Finally, McClure talked about how you can RSVP and get more information about this event.

 

 

For more information or to RSVP visit mcclurefuneralhome.com or call 824-4949. Scott McClure with McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Taylorville School Board To Meet Monday Evening

The Taylorville School Board will meet Monday evening at 7 PM at the Administration Education Center at 512 West Spresser Street in Taylorville. After approval of minutes and claims, the board will discuss the consideration of personnel, which is who is being hired, anyone going on leave, and any people that are resigning or retiring. 

 

Under old business, the School Board will discuss the new school resource officer or SRO updates. There will also be a strategic planning update, a unit office update, and a special education update. Old business will wrap up with an update on the new technology distance grant.

 

Under new business there will be a school report from North Elementary School, the board will discuss and approve a CMS Musical Instruments grant. The IHSA 2020-2021 Annual renewal will be discussed and approved, and the Taylorville High School, North Elementary School, and Memorial School Improvement Plans will all be discussed and approved as well. 

 

Dr. Chris Dougherty will give Superintendent updates, and there will be an executive session to discuss the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body or legal counsel for the public body. The School will also hear any public comments.

Daylight Saving Time Begins Sunday Morning; Forward Your Clocks And Check Your Smoke Alarms

Illinois and most of the United States will lose an hour of sleep on Sunday. Sunday, March 8th at 2 AM is the start of daylight saving time, so fast forward your clocks one hour. This is also a good time to test and replace the batteries in your smoke alarms. 

 

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) along with the Office of the State Fire Marshal is encouraging you to change your batteries and test all smoke and CO alarms in your house and to go over your escape route and practice it. 

 

The NFPA reports between 2012-2016, that almost three out of every five home fire deaths in the US resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms. In homes that working smoke alarms, the chances of dying were reduced by 54%. Dead batteries accounted for ¼ of smoke alarm failures. A new law in 2017 required that ten year sealed smoke alarms be installed in all homes built after 1988. 

 

For more information on the new “Be Alarmed!” fire safety education class and smoke alarm installation program, visit www.ifsa.org/programs/alarms.

The Elizabeth Titus Memorial Library In Sullivan To Offer WiFi Hot Spots For Rent

Michelle Nolen is the Director of the Elizabeth Titus Memorial Library in Sullivan and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the egg hatching that they’re doing at the library and how they’ll have wifi hotspots available to rent very soon.

 

Michelle Nolen started out by discussing the egg hatching that they’re doing at the library.

 

 

Nolen went on to discuss how they’ll have wifi hotspots available to rent very soon.

 

 

Finally, Nolen talked about how the wifi hotspots work.
 

 

Michelle Nolen was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Center in Sullivan.

State Senator Andy Manar Pushes Legislation For Helping Offset Costs For Firefighters

Volunteer Firefighters and EMS personnel can be some of the hardest positions to fill, because of the number of hours needed for training and the intense amount of work that is needed for those positions. Out of pocket costs along with helping recruit can be labor intensive and cost cities money that they don’t have. State Senator Andy Manar is working on helping communities with these costs. 

 

Senator Manar pushed through Senate Bill 3224 which provides a $500 tax credit to those who serve as volunteer firefighters and EMS providers. It is intended to help reduce the financial burden for these first responders and for the cities and communities that need help.

 

Currently, 70% of all fire departments in Illinois are volunteer-based, and many of those same departments also use volunteer EMS providers as well. The legislation had been introduced by Senator Jason Barickman and Ram Villavalam. The next step for the bill will be the Revenue Subcommittee on Tax Exemptions and Credits.

 

State Republicans Pushing For Property Tax Reform

Illinois State Representatives got together to announce new legislative proposals to provide property tax relief to struggling homeowners today. Republicans Dan Brady from Normal, Deanne Mazzochi from Elmhurst, Dan Ugaste from Geneva and Joe Sosnowski from Rockford announced some new proposals to property taxes that keep increasing. Deanne Mazzochi says that property taxes are part of the reason why Illinois is losing so many citizens and businesses out of the state.

 

Mazzochi is concerned that democrats aren’t taking property tax relief seriously. Mazzochi has introduced House Bill 5293 that creates the senior citizen's homestead school levy exemption as a way to help residents stay in their homes and not have to leave due to high property taxes.

 

 

Representative Dan Brady says that this shouldn’t be a partisan issue, but that both sides need to push farther to let these bills have their day in committee.

 

 

House Republicans have filed more than twenty pieces of legislation to address property tax relief that ranges from pension reform to increased transparency and resource sharing.

Glenda Plunkett Talks About The Importance Of the Census

Glenda Plunkett is the Public Health Services Coordinator at the Moultrie County Health Department and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the importance of the 2020 census, the questions that you’ll get asked, and what questions you will never be asked.

 

Glenda Plunkett started out by discussing the importance of the 2020 census.

 

 

Plunkett went on to discuss the questions that you’ll get asked.

 

 

Finally, Plunkett talked about what questions you will never be asked.
 

 

Glenda Plunkett was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Center in Sullivan.

Tips For Surviving A Burn Injury

A burn can change a life. Knowing how to handle things when you get burned, or the steps to follow quickly can save a life. The regional burn center at OSF Saint Anthony is one of only five burn centers in Illinois. The center cares for approximately 200 acute burn survivors every year.  Dr. Stathis Poulakidas, a medical director for the burn center says that they have had very good outcomes considering some of the burns that they have dealt with.

 

 

Dr. Poulakidas specifically remembered a certain burn victim, Bob Goodbred of Earlville, Illinois. Goodbred, who was 75 years old, was burned after doing maintenance on a snow plow. Goodbred ended up being pinned underneath and broke five ribs all while being burned by a torch he was using to fix the plow. 

 

Dr. Poulakidas says that the road to recovery for burn victims can be as long as 50 to 100 days but technology has made great strides to helping burn victims recover. Goodbred was only in the hospital for 17 days and is expected to make a full recovery.

 

Smoking and open flame are the leading causes of burn injuries for older adults, while scalding is the leading cause of burn injury for young children. 

TMH Administration, Staff Show Off New Building

Taylorville Memorial Hospital administration and staff showed off what will be the new place where patient care is provided, during last weekend's Open House.

 

President and C-E-O Kim Bourne told Miller Media Group listeners during a live broadcast from the event, that T-M-H will hold a hiring event for additional positions March 16th.

 

 

Patients and services will be moved from the 1953 hospital building, to the new building on March Eleventh.

Jack Myers With The Social Security Administration Talks The Importance Of Saving For Retirement

Jack Myers is the Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration in Springfield and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to explain when you should start saving for retirement, the importance of saving for retirement, and the tools that they have available to help you save money.

 

Jack Myers started out by explaining when you should start saving for retirement.
 

 

Myers went on to discuss the importance of saving for retirement.

 

 

Finally, Myers talked about the tools that they have available to help you save money.

 

 

Jack Myers with the Social Security Administration in Springfield was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

House Republicans Working On Fixes To FOID Card

House Republicans of the State of Illinois continue to work on ways to end delays in firearm owner’s identification cards or FOID card processing, and discussed their shared 2nd Amendment focused legislative agenda. Lawmakers are concerned that delays are hurting Illinoisan rights and FOID card applications and concerns that renewals have been delayed for processing applications and renewals.

 

Representative Patrick Windhorst from Metropolis is sponsoring a legislative package that would eliminate the FOID altogether. 

 

 

Representative Mike Marron from Fithian says that the FOID is unconstitutional and the State needs to figure it out or eliminate it. 

 

 

Representative Charlie Meier from Okawville says that the FOID card needs to be provided in a timely manner or they need to get rid of it. 

 

Illinois is only one of four states that still requires a FOID card. Multiple House Republican members are pushing through legislation to fix the FOID card issues or get rid of it altogether.

 

Some bills that are being processed include HB 4391 which would ban local governments from imposing taxes or fees on firearms and ammunition. HB 4392 would eliminate the 72 hour waiting period for individuals that have been granted a valid license to carry a concealed handgun. HB 4393 would lower the fee to obtain a concealed carry license from $150 to $100. and HB 4398 would allow individuals that have a permit to conceal carry to do so on public transportation.

Ashley Earnest Talks About The Donations Delivered Program

Ashley Earnest is with the Central Illinois Food Bank and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to explain how the Donations Delivered Program is going so far, how the program got started in Christian County, and the desperate need that they have for more donors.

 

Ashley Earnest started out by explaining how the Donations Delivered Program has been going thus far.
 

 

Earnest went on to discuss how the program got started in Christian County.
 

 

Finally, Earnest talked about the desperate need that they have for more donors.

 

 

Ashley Earnest with the Central Illinois Food Bank was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

State Announces Cannabis Sales From February

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has announced early numbers for adult cannabis use in February. Statewide totals indicate sales of $34,805,072.01. Dispensaries across the state sold over 831,600 items over the 29 day period. In-state totals to residents came out to $25,615,371. Out-of-state residents bought $9,189,701.01 as well. These figures do not include taxes that were collected. A portion of sales is invested back into communities that were hurt by the war on drugs. 

 

The Illinois Department of Agriculture continues to accept applications for cannabis infuser, craft grower, and transporter licenses. All applications must be submitted by March 16th. For more information visit the IDOA website.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital Holds Open House at New Building

Taylorville Memorial Hospital showed the public their new 60-million dollar building during an Open House on Sunday.  The Miller Media Group Radio Stations broadcast the event live, where President and C-E-O Kim Bourne told listeners about the new hospital inpatient rooms.

 

 

Executive director of the T-M-H Foundation Raedena Ryan told listeners that local artist submissions now adorn the walls of the new building.

  

 

Get more information on T-M-H's new building by clicking their icon at taylorvilledailynews-dot-com.

Governor recognizes April As Child Abuse Awareness Month; Announces 1400 New COVID Cases

Governor JB Pritzker gave his daily press conference on COVID-19 and there are 1,453 new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) including 33 deaths. The Governor urges everyone to remember that April is National Child Abuse Awareness month and with more people staying at home due to the virus there is a heightened risk for child abuse.

 

New counties reporting COVID-19 cases include Jasper, Lee, Mason, and Pike.  There are now a total of 10,357 cases, including 243 deaths in 68 counties. Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of Public Health is worried about too many people not staying at home.

 

Governor Pritzker says he’s not sure when the state will reach it’s apex as far as peak point but it will probably be the end of April.

 

 

You can always visit www.taylorvilledailynews.com or visit coronavirus.illinois.gov.  You can listen to every press conference by Governor Pritzker by tuning into NEWSTALK WTIM and its many platforms at 2:30 every afternoon.

Names Released Of The Victims Of The Lincoln Plane Crash

The Illinois State Police have released the names of those victims that were killed in Tuesday’s plane crash on Interstate 55 in Lincoln. On Tuesday morning at 8:49, a 2013 Cessna 172 crashed on I-55 near Mile Marker 126. Killed in the crash was 22-year-old Mitchell W. Janssen of Princeville, 33-year-old Matthew R. Hanson of Pulaski, Wisconsin, and 30-year-old Kevin G. Chapman of Urbana. 

 

The airplane departed the Central Illinois Regional Airport in Bloomington, Illinois on March 3rd, Normal traffic flow resumed at around 2:30 PM. Multiple agencies responded to the crash, and the Federal Aviation Administration is still investigating the incident.

Tornado Hits Fellow Broadcaster in Cookeville, Tennessee

The Miller Media Group Radio Stations, are members of an organization called the International Broadcasters Idea Bank, which is a group of 100 small market broadcasters in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

 

Many of those broadcasters, reached out to help Taylorville after the EF-3 tornado that tore thru town on December First of 2018.

 

Now, the Miller Media Group is asking you to help a community that's part of the Idea Bank family.

 

Cookeville, Tennessee, was at the epicenter of the death and destruction from tornadoes that ravaged that state at around 2 o'clock Tuesday morning.

 

Idea Bank member Larry Stone, owns and operates the 4 Cookeville, Tennessee stations, which went wall-to-wall with coverage soon after the tornado hit during the early morning hours on Tuesday, and broadcast continuous coverage thru Tuesday afternoon.  Stone's stations have also carried this week's many news conferences with local officials.

 

Stone and on-air announcer Radford E. Cleary, was part of Tuesday evening's special newscast which reported on the fatalities and damage up to that point.  The 2 gave a summary of the event up to that point.

 

 

Putnam County mayor Randy Porter told Stone that as of 5pm Tuesday, the area looks like a war zone.  

 

 

The Miller Media Group is asking you to donate thru Larry's radio group, to help those in need in Cookeville, by clicking the "Tennessee Tornado Assistance" link on taylorvilledailynews-dot-com or dewittdailynews-dot-com.  

 

Just as the recovery has taken over a year in Taylorville, the Cookeville area will need financial assistance for weeks and months to come.  

Lawrence Oliver Talks About His Run For State Representative

Lawrence Oliver is a candidate for the 95th State Representative District in Illinois and he joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss his background as an Environmental Scientist, how that experience will help him in the General Assembly, and why he decided to run for office.

 

Oliver started out by discussing his background as an Environmental Scientist.

 

 

Oliver went on to discuss how that experience will help him in the General Assembly.

 

 

Finally, Oliver talked about why he decided to run for office.

 

 

Lawrence Oliver was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

First Week Of March Severe Weather Preparedness Week

March 1-7 is Severe Weather Preparedness Week. This week is a good week to test your weather alert radios, Tornado drills were held on Tuesday, and tests will be sent to the radios and the Emergency Alert Systems to make sure they are functioning correctly. Chris Miller, the warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Lincoln, says that the main thing to think about now, especially after all the damage yesterday in Nashville is to have a plan in place.


 

Miller also says to have more than one source for getting weather updates as well.

 

 

Miller says that in Illinois it’s important to be prepared as 20% of all tornadoes in Illinois come at night.

 

Illinois ranks 4th in the US for the most tornadoes per square mile behind Florida, Kansas, and Maryland. Of the top 20 counties in Illinois with the most tornadoes, 12 are in central or eastern Illinois including, Logan, Sangamon, Macon, and Christian Counties.

Windsor High School FFA Students Discuss Why They Joined The FFA

Brandon Milligan is the President of the Windsor High School Future Farmers of America, Haley Beck is the Chaplain, and Jack Welsh is the Treasurer and they joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National FFA Week to discuss why they decided to become a part of the Windsor High School FFA.

 

Brandon Milligan started out by discussing why he decided to join the Windsor High School FFA.

 

 

Jack Welsh went on to discuss why he decided to join the Windsor FFA
 

 

Finally, Haley Beck discussed why she joined the Windor FFA.
 

 

Brandon Milligan, Haley Beck, and Jack Welsh were guests on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National FFA Week.

Sheriff's Office Opposed To Eliminating Cash Bail

The General Assembly in Illinois has brought up the idea of following the State of New York’s example and ending cash bail. The thought from supporters of eliminating it is that it keeps poor people down by keeping free people in jail who are waiting for their hearing. 

 

A new coalition of law enforcement organizations formed to oppose the efforts and hope that they can reach the General Assembly. The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, Illinois Fraternal Order of Police, Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, Chicago Lodge 7 Fraternal Order of Police, Illinois Police Benevolent and Protection Association and the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police have all formed together in an effort to stop this. 

 

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp wants to provide the voice of reason. Kettelkamp feels this is more of a public safety issue than anything.

 

 

Kettelkamp also worries that people will stop reporting crimes if people are being released back onto the street.

 

 

Kettelkamp says they aren’t picking on poor people but trying to punish those who commit crimes.

 

 

For more information contact your local Sheriff Department.

Big Day for TMH As New Building Unveiled

It was a big day on Sunday for the administration and staff at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, when they showed off their new 60-million dollar building to the public.  The event was broadcast live on the Miller Media Group Stations, when Outpatient Care Center Manager Jana Beeler told listeners about their new "Central Out" Patient Therapy.

 

 

Beeler is also Specialty Clinic Manager and said that with the new building, all Specialty Physicians from out of town will all be in one place.

 

 

T-M-H moves patients into the new building March Eleventh.

Plane Crash Reported In Lincoln

The Illinois State Police are investigating a plane crash in Logan County. At 8:49 Tuesday morning, a small airplane crashed on I-55 at mile marker 126 in Lincoln. The plane became fully engulfed upon impact in the middle of the interstate. There were 3 people on board. Reports from ISP is that the Logan County Coroner is on the scene.  Multiple agencies are on the scene to assist including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). I-55 Southbound traffic is being diverted at mile marker 126 into Lincoln by IDOT. The I-55 Southbound lane is expected to be closed for up to 5 hours. 

Wisconsin Woman Dies In Montgomery County Fatal Car Accident

The Illinois State Police are investigating a three-vehicle fatal crash in Montgomery County. ISP District 18 Troopers responded to investigate a three-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 55 northbound at milepost 59 in Montgomery County, 7 miles north of Litchfield. 

 

At approximately 3:55 PM Monday afternoon, a 2005 Porsche Carrera driven by 62-year-old Jorian Clarke of St. Louis, Missouri had stopped in the left lane of the interstate due to a wheel that was in the lane of travel from a prior incident. A 2018 Chevy Equinox driven by 74-year-old Richard S. Jaeger of Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin struck the Porsche from behind. The Equinox then struck the left side of the Kenworth Truck Tractor Semitrailer that was parked on the right shoulder.  The driver of the Semitrailer, 49-year-old Richard Dowlarr of Springfield was injured in the crash.

 

The passenger in the 2018 Chevy Equinox, 82-year-old Robin L. Francis of Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin was killed in the collision with the Semitrailer. The ISP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit is continuing the investigation. No further information is available at this time.

Penny Standerfer Talks About The Work That Saving Orphaned Animals Does

Penny Standerfer is the founder of Saving Orphaned Animals and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Shelbyville to discuss what Saving Orphaned Animals does, how they are not Animal Control, and how they find animals new homes.

 

Penny Standerfer started out by discussing what Saving Orphaned Animals does.
 

 

Standerfer went on to discuss how they are not Animal Control.

 

 

Finally, Standerfer talked about how they find animals new homes.

 

 

Penny Standerfer was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our studios in downtown Shelbyville.

Senator Andy Manar On The Appointment Of Jerry Costello II As The New Director of Agriculture

Illinois State Senator Andy Manar joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show to discuss the appointment of Jerry Costello II as the new Director of Agriculture, a controversial Republican National Committee mailer that looks like a census form, and why it should be illegal for mailers like that to go out.

 

Senator Manar started out by discussing the appointment of Jerry Costello II as the new Director of Agriculture.
 

 

Manar went on to discuss a controversial Republican National Committee mailer that looks like a census form.
 

 

Finally, Senator Manar talked about why it should be illegal for mailers like that to go out.

 

 

Illinois State Senator Andy Manar was a guest on the Newstalk WTIM Morning Show.

New Director Appointed At People's Bank & Trust

A local bank has a new director. Christopher Swing has been appointed as a new director of Peoples Bank and Trust. Swing is President and COO of Vantage Outsourcing headquartered in Effingham. The company is a surgery service company providing products and equipment to hospitals and surgery centers. Chris is a graduate of Charleston High School and holds a BS in Accounting and an MBA in Accounting from Eastern Illinois University.  

 

Chris serves in board positions with Clear Water Service Corporation, Eastern Illinois University Alumni Association, Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, Lake Land College Alumni Association, YPO Illinois, and Vantage Technology. 

 

Chris and his wife Kelsey live in Lerna, Illinois with their daughter Lixia. Congrats to Chris from all of us at Regional Radio.

Edinburg High School FFA Members Talk About Why They Joined

Riley Bates is the President of the Edinburg Future Farmers of America, Emily Schleyhahn is the Secretary and Noah Oller is the Vice President and they joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National FFA Week to discuss why they joined the FFA and what FFA means to them.

 

Riley Bates started out by discussing when she was elected and why she joined the FFA.

 

 

Emily Schleyhahn went on to discuss why she joined the FFA.
 

 

Finally, Noah Oller talked about what FFA means to him.

 

 

Riley Bates, Emily Schleyhahn, and Noah Oller were guests on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National FFA Week.

TCCU Promotes Howell To Loan Officer

Taylorville Community Credit Union has recently promoted one of their own to Loan Officer. Kayla Howell, who has been with TCCU for 4 years, was promoted to Loan Officer. Howell had previously served TCCU as ACH Coordinator and Teller, assisting members with day to day operations. President Will Perkins was thrilled to announce the promotion.

 

Before starting to work at TCCU, Howell served at another business as an assistant manager. TCCU opened in 1956 and has offices in Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, and Pana. Its membership is open to anyone who works or lives within the tricounty area of Shelby, Christian, and Montgomery Counties. 

 

For more information on TCCU please visit www.taylorvillecommunitycreditunion.com or call 824-9658.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital Unveils New Building to Public

Taylorville Memorial Hospital unveiled their new 60-million dollar building to the public on Sunday, before patient care begins on March Eleventh.  The Miller Media Group Radio Stations broadcast live from the event, and Director of Ancillary Services Lora Polley talked about the improved respiratory therapy services.

 

 

T-M-H Rehab Manager Jodi Holcomb visited with us about the benefits of the new rehab location in the new hospital buildling.

 

 

Find out more on T-M-H's new building by clicking their icon at taylorvilledailynews-dot-com.

City Council Meets; Approves New Generator & Family Video Liquor License

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening to discuss ordinances and vote on motions. Taylorville High School basketball senior, Jase Bergschneider was honored for his fantastic career at Taylorville High School as the all-time points leader for THS. At Monday's meeting, the motion to approve and issue a class O Liquor License for Family Video passed. City Attorney Rocki Romano made sure that the Aldermen knew the contingencies of that license being used.

 

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry assured the Aldermen, that Family Video understood what needed to be done. The motion passed 5-4 with Lee Lanzotti, Chris Skultetty, Shawn Burtle, and Kathy Driskell all voting no on the motion.  A motion was recommended to change the rates for ambulance services to make them more current.  

 

There was quite a discussion over a motion to recommend to the City Council to accept the low bid for the generator project from Prairie State Plumbing and Heating Inc. at a cost not to exceed $100,515.00.  This would be paid from the Business Development District Fund. Alderman Megan Bryant voted no on it questioning why they were using the BDD to pay for the generator.

 

The motion also passed 5-4 as well. Mayor Bruce Barry gave his updates and announced another cleanup date in April.

 


The next City Council meeting is set for March 16th. 

 

ISP Investigating Fatal Crash In Lincoln

The Illinois State Police are investigating a hit and run fatality in Lincoln. On Monday afternoon at 12:30, a pedestrian was fatally struck by a truck tractor semi-trailer while crossing old Route 66 in front of Lincoln Hospital. ISP District 9 along with the ISP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit, responded to the scene at the request of the Lincoln Police Department.

 

The crash remains under investigation. Details of the deceased pedestrian is being withheld until next of kin is notified. The driver of the vehicle was a 60-year-old male from Amarillo, Texas. The vehicle that hit the deceased was a 2007 Freightliner Truck Tractor Semi-Trailer. 

The Effingham Performance Center Has Shows For All Ages

Kim Jansen is the Executive Director of the Effingham Performance Center and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Shelbyville to discuss that they have shows that they have for everyone, the history of the Effingham Performance Center, and how the EPC is different from other theatres.

 

Kim Jansen started out by discussing that they have shows for everyone.

 

 

Jansen went on to talk about the history of the EPC.

 

 

Finally, Jansen talked about how the EPC is different from other theatres.
 

 

Kim Jansen was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Shelbyville.

Tips For Beating Cabin Fever

If you are feeling the effects of being stuck inside due to cold weather, and have the winter blues or more commonly called “cabin fever,” then you are not alone.  Matt Janus, an exercise physiologist at OSF Healthcare in Pontiac, Illinois says that while being stuck inside can have its drawbacks it doesn’t mean you can’t stay active.

 

 

One thing that can help with keeping yourself active, is by keeping it simple. A little thing like dancing with your spouse or kids can really be a huge benefit towards keeping yourself active.

 

Check with your local YMCA or Hospital for tips and classes on staying healthy and active during the winter months when you can’t get outside.

Moultrie County Senior Center To Host "Take Charge Of Your Diabetes" Program

Kathi Garvey is the Director of the Moultrie County Senior Center and she joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live in Sullivan to discuss the upcoming “Take Charge of Your Diabetes” program that takes place on Thursdays thru March 12th, how they offer so much more than Bingo and meals, and to talk about all of the people that they’ve been able to help at the Senior Center.

 

Kathi Garvey started out by discussing the upcoming “Take Charge of Your Diabetes” program.
 

 

Garvey went on to discuss how they offer so much more than Bingo and meals.
 

 

Finally, Garvey talked about all of the people that they’ve been able to help at the Senior Center.
 

 

Kathi Garvey was a guest on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from the Moultrie County Senior Center in Sullivan.

Taylorville City Aldermen To Meet For Public Meeting Monday Evening

The Taylorville City Council will meet Monday evening at the Municipal Building in Taylorville at 7 PM. Under motions to approve include a Class O Liquor License for Family Video and a motion to approve the purchase of MultiSmart Controller for the Spillway Lift Station Omni Site Board. 

 

Under committee reports, there will be ordinance discussions including; ordinance changes for Ordinance number 3558 and city code section 4-9-3. Both of those motions have to do with the Taylorville Fire Department. A motion to recommend City Council approve the purchase of one NFPA 58 edition book and workbook. That book has to do with liquified petroleum and national fire protection standards. 

 

Under finance reports, the generator project will get bid on along with a reimbursement and the treasurer’s report. Under Street and Sewer reports, there will be a motion for approval of the Walk A Mile in Her Shoes event on April 18th. There will be a motion to approve ordering a new Godwin Pump and approving MFT funds and the resolution for maintenance under the Illinois Highway Code.

 

There will also be payment of bills, an attorney report, and Mayor Bruce Barry will give his report as well. 

Cowden-Herrick FFA Members Talk About Why They Joined And The Work They Do In The Community

Lauren Wojcik is the President of the Cowden-Herrick Future Farmers of America, Paige McKittrick is the Vice President and Dave Wojcik is the advisor and they joined the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National FFA Week to discuss why they joined the FFA, and the work that they do in the community.

 

Lauren Wojcik started out by discussing why she joined the Cowden-Herrick FFA.

 

 

Paige McKittrick went on to discuss why she joined the Cowden-Herrick FFA.
 

 

Finally, FFA advisor Dave Wojeck talked about the work that they do in the Cowden-Herrick community.

 

 

Lauren Wojcik, Paige McKittrick, and Dave Wojcik were guests on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show during National FFA Week.

Sheriff Kettelkamp Talks About New State Policy Change

With the new changes to a former ICE law, undocumented immigrants are now being released from prison without notifications to ICE or to the Sheriff’s departments around the state. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp spoke with Regional Radio News concerning the policy change and the hope of getting the message out to the public about what they can do to help.  Sheriff Kettelkamp said that he was blindsided by this change.

 

Sheriff Kettelkamp says it’s a public safety issue affecting all of Illinois.

 

 

Sheriff Kettelkamp just like State Representative Avery Bourne encourages everyone to contact Governor JB Pritzker’s Office and Senator Andy Manar’s Office and let them know what you think about this policy change.

 

 

For more information on this policy and what you can do to help, please contact your County Sheriff’s Office or your State Representative.

Over 300 Attend Taylorville Memorial Hospital Open House Sunday

 

Over 300 people attended Sunday's Taylorville Memorial Hospital Open House, which was broadcast live on the 5 Miller Media Group Stations.

 

President and C-E-O Kim Bourne told our listeners the new 60-million dollar building project planning began in 2015.

 

 

Case Management and Swing Bed Manager Treena Brown told listeners that the new Onsite occuptational Rehab Suite includes a real-life kitchen and bathroom.

 

 

 

Above was the Miller Media Group broadcast position for the live broadcast Sunday on all 5 of its stations.

 

Find out about T-M-H's new building by clicking their icon on taylorvilledailynews-dot-com.

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