The National Weather Service in Lincoln has extended the Tornado Watch for Christian and Macon Counties, and counties to the east, in the Regional Radio listening area until 10pm Saturday night.

The Weather Service said the possibility of tornadoes still exist in those counties thru 10pm Saturday.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for the latest weather watches and warnings as issued by the National Weather Service.

The Miller Media Group radio stations across Central Illinois, and its 2 on-line daily newspapers taylorvilledailynews.com in Taylorville and dewittdailynews.com in Clinton, have upgraded its school and business closing and cancellation software with its new "Event Delay" service.

Company president Randal J. Miller said the new service makes it easier for area school superindents, factory managers, and governmental bodies to notify readers and listeners about their school closings, cancellations and notifications.

All they do is click on the "Event Delay Enrollment" icon on either site's blue menu bar.  They'll find their entity, put their e-mail address in and submit a secret password only they will have access to.  

By doing that, they're automatically signed up to then post their closing or cancellation anytime 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for readers on each respective on-line daily newspaper to see.

That information will then automatically be shared on the respective radio station cluster in Taylorville or Clinton.

The service is absolutely free for school superintendents, factories, govermmental bodies and businesses use by just signing up at whichever on-line daily newspaper is in their area.

Questions can be answered by calling Miller at (217) 824-3395.

Several counties in the Regional Radio listening area are under a Tornado Watch until 8pm today.

Counties included are Christian, Sangamon, Montgomery, Coles, Effingham, Fayette, Macon, Shelby, and Moultrie.

The Weather Service says tornadoes are possible in and close to the watch area.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for the latest weather information.

A big turnout from the Christian County community, participated in the annual Taylorville Kiwanis Pancake and Sausage Day at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Saturday, April 30th.

Kiwanis members arrived at 5am to set up the kitchen and begin cooking fresh pancakes and sausage for the public to enjoy.  

Between the dining room, takeout and drive-thru orders, over 200 people enjoyed Kiwanis pancakes and sausage on Saturday.

Proceeds from the annual event benefit local Kiwanis projects for children and youth, including Coats for Kids, Kiwanis Park, YMCA and high school scholarships, as well as local Kiwanis Foundation grants to other local non-profits that also benefit children.

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

A Kincaid man was recognized by both the Taylorville Police and Kincaid Police Departments for his dedication to their K9 programs. Mike Lawrence of Kincaid helped raise fund for the KPD canine program to help pay for vet costs and basic canine needs.  Kincaid Police Chief DJ Mathon, thanked Lawrence saying that he saved the community a significant amount of money by pouring the concrete pad and installing the shelter in the kennel. 

Taylorville and Kincaid Police Departments are both adding K9's to the department to help reduce crime.  Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says that the TPD appreciated the help with installing Officer Priddy's canine kennel.  

Lawrence was recognized at the Kincaid Village Board meeting Monday evening. 

Taylorville Estates is more than an assisted living facility – it’s a community. 

Director of Nurses Toni Clark says that Taylorville Estates provides tenants with independence. 

Clark says there are all types of units available for tenants. 

Don’t worry about a dishwasher or washer and dryer. Taylorville Estates will take care of that for you. 

All you need to bring are the items you want to have with you. 

Learn more at palladianmgt.com/taylorville-estates. Clark appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

As a gardener, it can be tough to navigate a cold and wet spring. 

University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator Andrew Holsinger is there to help. 

He says that while it can be tough on some plants, others are thriving. 

Holsinger does warn against planting your seeds too early. He also suggests a raised garden bed. 

The extension is offering a course on the benefits of raised garden beds at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 19th at the Taylorville Public Library. 

Learn more at extension.illinois.edu/cjmm. Holsinger appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A man was sentenced to 364 days in Shelby County Jail for the offense of speeding in excess of 35 miles per hour. Briar W. True was sentenced to the maximum following a June 16 bench trial in which True was found guilty of the offense.  The charge resulted from a fatal crash that occured on June 4th, 2020 on Route 16.  The incident occured in SHelbyville near the US Army Corps Visitors Center.  Pedestrian 84 year old Sidney Manning was struck by True as Manning walked across Route 16 shortly before 5 AM.  

The ISP investigated the crash and with no eyewitnesses to the crash, the ISP worked with the Shelbyville Police and Shelby County Sheriff's Department to help with crash reconstruction.  At the trial, Brian Scott and Steve Coady testified as expert witnesses, and they estimated that True's vehicle was traveling between 82-98 mph at the time of the impact. The posted speed limit was 45 mph. 

True had an extensive prior criminal history including possession of meth, DUI, reckless driving, criminal damage to property, possession of drug paraphernalia, 4 ordinance violations, and eleven traffic violations.  Judge Martin Siemer presided over the hearing and cited the fact that the defendant's conduct caused harm to another as the overriding factor which warranted a maximum sentence.  True was remanded to the Shelby County Jail following the sentencing hearing. 

As the calendar flips to May, Lincoln Land Community College is preparing for commencement. 

LLCC Taylorville Director Dee Krueger says commencement takes place May 13th in Springfield. 

Krueger will highlight students receiving honors at the ceremony. 

Future Taylorville High School graduate and current senior Kennedie Cearlock will participate in the LLCC commencement. She has been working hard since the age of 16 to graduate college before she finishes high school.

Krueger invites future high school juniors to enroll in LLCC’s “College Now” program, which would allow them to earn college credit hours while still in high school. 

Learn more at llcc.org. Krueger appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A Taylorville man was sentenced to a total of 6 years for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a prior feolony and for a theft incident. According to the Christian County State's Attorny, 24 year old Blake A. Knight of Taylorville was sentenced at Christian County Courthose in front of Judge Chris Matoush.  Knight was sentenced to 5 years for the possession charge and one year for a theft incident in the city of Morrisonville.  

Knight was found in the possession of a firearm after being observed driving an unlicensed mini bike on a city street after he fled from Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler.  The theft incident occured in May of 2020 and Knight was ordered to pay restitution to three separate victims for this series of thefts.

Possession of a firearm by a felon is a class three felony that is non-probationable and has a sentencing range of 2-10 years in IDOC.  All of these senteces are served at 50% and this is Knight's first sentence to the Department of Corrections. 

Consolidated Communications is offering a new gigabit broadband service. Residents in Charleston, Mattoon, Shelbyville, Litchfield, and Taylorville residents will have access to more user-centric internet.  Residents can sign up now to be first on the list for Fidium.  Fidium Fiber Internet will reach 20,000 homes with no contracts, data caps, or bundles. 

More than 8,700 homes will be operational next month, with 12,000 homes expected to have access by the end of the year.  Only 21.4% of all Illinois residents have access to fiber optic internet.  Tom White, Chief Technology Officer for Consolidated Communications says that Fidium is the future of Consolidated consumer fiber internet service and they’re proud to now offer it at a competitive price point to customers in Illinois.  The reimagined customer experience includes more choice, control, and personalization and ultra-fast fiber internet speeds that customers need. 

For the plans, Fidium Fiber internet offers affordable pricing at $70 a month that includes equipment and installation, a whole-home mesh WiFi experience, the Attune WiFi app, easy hassle free installation, a customer portal, real time, proactive network monitoring to solve issues remotely, and premium technical support.

In addition to bringing Fidium to customers across eight states, Consolidated will build more than 400,000 fiber connections to homes and businesses. To learn more and to pre-order service, visit fidiumfiber.com/expansion. You can also follow Fidium on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube. 
 

Central A&M School District hosting the 2nd annual, “Espresso Yourself,” Friday May 6th. 

Superintendent Dr. Deann Heck says it’s a great opportunity for students engaged in the arts to display their work. 

Dr. Heck says she’s thrilled to host this event after COVID-19 kept it away for a couple years. 

There will be all sorts of different art on display. 

Dr. Heck wants everyone to know just how important it is for these students to showcase their skills. 

Learn more at camraiders.com. Dr. Heck appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Illinois State Police are announcing the results of Operation Project Safe Neighborhood or OPS. OPS is done to make neighborhoods safer, by preventing criminal activity and removing guns, drugs, and violent criminals from the street.  This operation has been conducted since October 2021. During this period, ISP has worked jointly with departments in Peoria, Champaign, Hancock, Cass, Coles, Christian, Sangamon, Vermilion, and Moultrie.  Officers worked a total of 27 details. 

During this time, 85 arrests have been made, 199 warnings have been issued, and 142 citations were issued.  Charges ranged from aggravated criminal sexual abuse, possession of child pornography, possession of methamphetamine, internet crimes against children, unlawful use of weapons, obstructing, manufacture/delivering cannabis, possession of a controlled substance, aggravated DUI, armed violence, driving while license suspended, and several wanted on arrest warrants. 

During this massive operation, 12 guns, 1725 grams of meth, 112,665 grams of cannabis, 15 LSD doses, 14 grams of cocaine, 5,311 grams of mushrooms, and two stolen vehicles were seized. Funding for the Project Safe Neighborhood is provided for by grants through the US Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance. 

Kincaid-South Fork School District ready for the end of the school year. 

Superintendent Chris Clark provides the rundown of events, which includes prom and graduation. He also says he’s busy reviewing scholarship applications. 

Clark discuses some of the things that make a scholarship application pop. 

This is the second year in a row the district is holding an in-person graduation ceremony. 

Clark says the district is focused on mending the hardships students went through over the past couple of years.

Clark appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

State Senator Doris Turner is working hard to tackle teacher shortages. A new law was signed that will allow school districts to hire substitute teachers with a short-term license for longer periods of time. 

The teacher shortage has been blamed on COVID-19. The state is currently facing a teacher shortage, and the need to have qualified individuals is important. The law will raise the cap on consecutive days a short term subsitute can teach from 5 days to 15. Senator Turner says she is hopeful this law will increase the quality and stability of youth education. 

The law, SB 3907, goes into effect immediately. 

Christian County Farm Bureau has a new manager, former Taylorville native, Alec Meyers. Meyers said he got into the Farm Bureau in 2021 in Greene County after growing up showing cattle and sheep. He says he has a pretty strong livestock background.

Meyers says he’s excited for what he can bring to the Farm Bureau when he officially starts in Christian County on July 1st.

Meyers continued by saying that he knows he has some big shoes to fill when he starts in July, taking over for Mellisa McMillan, the former Christian County Farm Bureau Manager, who left the position earlier this year. 

For Meyers, he really wanted to find a way that he could work in agriculture but also to be able to help others with the knowledge that he had.  He says that’s where the Bureau came in.

Find out more about the Christian County Farm Bureau by visiting http://www.christiancofb.com/.

Taylorville Ministerial Association is more than a group of priests. 

Pastor Curtis Franks is the president of the association. He says they act as an umbrella to multiple community projects. 

Pastor Franks says that the association assists in community organizations like the Taylorville Food Pantry, the Community Garden, and they assist in the bell-ringing around the holidays. 

There are others, including the Voucher Program and Safe Passage, that the ministerial association works heavily with. 

Pastor Franks says the ministerial association’s biggest focus is on the voucher program, which can provide immediate relief for folks and families in need. 

Occasionally, Pastor Franks says ministers are using their own funds to cover the cost of the Voucher Program. He is welcoming donations of any size. You can call Crossroads Church to make a contribution at 217-287-1041.

Pastor Franks appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Rail safety may seem like an afterthought, but with 103 people killed or injured in grade crossing and trespassing incidents in 2021, it is still a relevant topic. Illinois has Operation Lifesaver to work on preventing accidents through public awareness campaigns, education programs, and free rail safety presentations. 

The non-profit rail safety education and awareness organization is dedicated to reducing collisions, fatalities, and injuries at highway-rail crossings and preventing trespassing on or near railroad tracks.  The organization is observing it’s 50th anniversary this year.  According to studies, Operation Lifesaver has reduced railroad crossing incidents by 84%.  Other studies show that every three hours a person or vehicle is hit by a train in the US. ICC Executive Director Mike Merchant says crashes have gone way down. 

A new law being pushed through will expand ICC’s authority and use of Grade Crossing Protection Funds for deterring trespassing on railroad property.  Operation Lifesaver was founded in 1972 and Illinois was the fourth state to adopt it.  Trespassing still remains a problem that Operation Lifesaver is working on. 

Volunteers are the heart of the organization and there is an absolute need for them this year.  Anyone interested to be an Operation Lifesaver volunteer, can email ICC.RailSafety@illinois.gov. 

Social Security offices welcoming in-person appointments once again. 

Public Affairs Specialist Jack Meyers still recommends performing most duties online. 

Prepare for Social Security offices to implement safety precautions. 

Meyers recommends you create an account at ssa.gov even if you are visiting in-person. 

Even though the Social Security offices are welcoming visitors again, Meyers says that you can perform most Social Security business online.

Learn more at ssa.gov. Meyers appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The 12 students of the Class of 2022 Christian County C-E-O, or "Creating Entrenpreneurial Opportunities" program, held their Trade Show Saturday at the Visionway Activity Center in Taylorville, offering their created items or services to the public.  The event was broadcast live on WRAN groovy 97.3.

Kadan Moon, a senior at Pana High School, shared information on his lawn care service.

Meah Wagahoft, a senior at Taylorville High School, turned her love for animals into a business that brings a portable petting zoo to events.

C-E-O facilitator Neil Hohenstein said the Trade Show was the culmination of months of work by the 12 students.

Applications for next year's Christian County C-E-O program from county high school seniors, are being accepted on-line at christiancountyceo.com.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about the Awana Worldwide Childrens’ Clubs, during their weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

Don Beetem, Senior Pastor at the Evangelical Free Church in Taylorville, shared with Kiwanis members about the Awana Club and its local chapter held each Wednesday evening during the school year at his church, saying it was founded over 70 years ago right here in Illinois.

Beetem added the Taylorville Awana Club sponsored by his church, started in 2003 and offers Bible-based programs to 3 age groups between ages 4 and 12. While attendance peaked into the 50’s before COVID, attendance is in the 30’s each week now but climbing.

Beetem said the Awana Club at his church is now attracting interested children by using 2 buses to pickup and deliver them to and from their homes each week.  He added the bulk of children attending are unchurched.

The public is reminded to attend this Saturday’s annual Kiwanis Pancake and Sausage Day from 6:30am to 11am at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  Both in-person dining and drive-up orders will be available. Proceeds benefit Kiwanis programs for children and youth in the Taylorville community, including Coats for Kids, Kiwanis Park, YMCA and high school scholarships, and grants for other local non-profit groups that focus on children.

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

An inmate is dead and an investigation is underway at the Morgan County Jail in Jacksonville. The ISP DCI Zone 4 is investigating the death at the jail after they were notified on Monday by the Sheriff’s Office to investigate a death that occurred.  Morgan County Jail Correctional Officers located 40-year-old Brian C. Downs who was in need of medical attention.  Downs was transported by ambulance to an area hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

An autopsy was conducted on Monday in Springfield and the results of the autopsy are pending toxicology results.  ISP DCI continues to investigate. 

The National Weather Service has announced that an EF1 tornado touched down in Christian County on Sunday, April 24th.  The tornado was part of strong local severe storms that moved northeast across central Illinois. The tornado was on the ground for only about a minute from 5:49 to 5:50 PM.  With 110 mph winds, the tornado was on the ground for 0.9 miles 3 miles east northeast of Sharpsburg.

Damage reports show that a farm on 1900 N Road was hit and a foot machine shed that was 60x120 was destroyed.  Debris was strewn over a mile to the northeast.  This was the only tornado that was reported in central Illinois from this storm. 

Businesses in Downtown Taylorville are feeling the impact of the East Main Cross project slated to last until the fall. 

Manager of Southern Ledge Pools and Patios Sam Adermann says not as many people are visiting the store located on East Main. 

Adermann says that she’s hopeful the project will be worth it for the business in the long run. 

Folks from out of town have had the toughest time finding the store entrance. 

Adermann describes the best way to make it into the store to experience all their hot tubs, pools, patios, fire pits, and accessories. 

Find all the products available and shop online at southernledgepoolsandpatios.com. Adermann appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources late last week issued updated public recommendations on the avian flu affecting wild birds.  Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza or HPAI is ravishing the bird community right now and the IDNR is asking that bird feeders and bird baths not be used until May 31st or until HPAI infections go down.  During Spring, wild birds will have good food sources, while bird feeders are removed.  IDNR Wildlife Disease and Invasive Species Program Manager Chris Jacques says this is being done in an abundance of caution.

Jacques says to stop feeding the birds and clean the feeders.

If five or more deceased wild birds are observed in one area, an IDNR wildlife biologist should be notified.  Contact information can be found at www.wildlifeillinois.org.  USDA Wildlife Services can also be called at 1-866-487-3297.

When disposing of deceased birds, wear rubber gloves and a mask.  Double-bag the carcass and bury it away from scavengers, or place it in a sealed garbage can.  Make sure to thoroughly wash your hands and any other clothing or tools with soap and water. For more information visit www.aphis.usda.gov. 

Memorial Health wants you to know Taylorville Memorial Hospital is hiring.

Talent Acquisition Recruiter Justin Cox says the hospital is looking for most positions in the nursing and service sectors. 

Cox says the hospital is looking for someone who fits with their values. 

He also invites college students who want to work in the healthcare industry to apply for a summer internship. 

Cox thanks all healthcare workers for their commitment over the past couple of years. 

Learn more at memorial.health. Cox appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Class of 2022 Christian County C-E-O, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities" students, held their Trade Show Saturday at the Visionway Activity Center in Taylorville.  It was the climax of their participation in the program that teaches business and networking skills to high school seniors.  The event was broadcast live on WRAN groovy 97.3.

Daniel Sloan, a senior at Taylorville High School, started a watch repair, resale and rental business from an old watch his dad gave him.

Summer Brandis, a senior at Taylorville High School, turned her love for volleyball into an instruction business.

Colin Hardin is a senior at Edinburg High School.  He made and sold fishing jigs for bass.

Keegan Norris is a senior at Taylorville High School.  His business offered on-line courses.

On-line applications for the 2022-23 Christian County C-E-O program are being accepted at christiancountyceo.com.

The Taylorville Park Board met on Monday evening to discuss business, review ordinance, and go over committee reports. The Board approved the acceptance of the Fiscal Year budget for 2022/2023. They also heard from Jason Boldig of the Lake Shore Golf Course about renewing their contract for another 3 years since the current contract expires in November 2022.

Park Board President Marlane Miller gave an update on the skateboard park, saying the ball is in the skateboard park committee's court.

The board then agreed on a bid for a new roof on the storage building at 112 East Palmer Street. 

Recreational Director Bailey Hancock gave her regular update and let the board about recent events that took place, including the 73rd annual Easter Egg Hunt. 

The pool looks like it will be well set for the summer with 12 new lifeguards and 8 returning guards. Hancock also said that donations are now being accepted for free and reduced pool passes.

The next Park Board meeting is set for May 23rd. 

Taylorville High School held their Spring Music Festival Friday evening at the West Gym in Taylorville to a full house who waited over 2 years for the music festival to return. Chris Gunn, Keith Chase, Jean Ninmer, Jacob Schumacher, Camille Blanford, Russ Burch, and Jim Harris led a nearly 2 hour music festival that celebrated music from every category and involved musicians from 5th to 12th grade and those from Vision Way and St. Mary’s as well.

The night started off with leading the students in with a processional and National Anthem.

The elementary chorus sang The Rainbow Connection which included songs like Over the Rainbow, Yellow Submarine, Blue Skies, Purple People Eater, and the Rainbow Connection. The 6th-8th grade choir sang a time medley with songs having to do with time. The THS Choirs combined sang songs from the Motion Picture Rocketman.

The Choir saw solos from Gage Matthews, Jillian Lowry, Mylie Sims, Izzy Miller, Rebekah Krah, Athan Sherbert, Savannah Sorrells, Olivia Enlow, Ella Greene, and the Choir Seniors. 

Matthews would also be awarded with the James H. Smith Music Appreciation Scholarship from former music director, James Smith.

The 5th grade band did a song called Alpha Squadron, the 6th through 8th grade band did Boogie, Woogie, Bugle Boy and Zoot Suit Riot, and the Senior High Concert Band did the Best of Styx.  Gunn said he was so happy to have a full house again at the West Gym. He said it was a memorable night for all. 

A Tower Hill resident has been sentenced to four years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for the offense of aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer.  31 year old Cody D. Nees of Tower Hill was sentenced on Friday. Aggravated fleeing is a Class 4 Felony with an extended sentencing range of 1-6 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

The incident occurred on December 15th, 2019.  Shelbyville Police Officer Joe Houk, observed a motor vehicle that had been involved in a pursuit with the Pana Police Department the previous evening.  After attempting to stop the vehicle, the driver fled from Walmart in Shelbyville towards Tower Hill before returning to Shelbyville at speeds exceeding 100 mph at some points.  During the pursuit, the vehicle drove through a wire gate south of IHI Turbo in Shelbyville causing damage.  Officers terminated the investigation, returned to Walmart, and identified the driver.  After reviewing surveillance footage, Shelbyville Police identified the driver.  

Nees has five prior misdemeanor convictions and two prior felony convictions spanning from 2008-2019 in Shelby and Fayette Counties.  He had not been previously sentenced to the Illinois Department of Corrections. 

The Taylorville Park Board is set to meet Monday evening at 7 PM at the Manners Park Dining Hall in Taylorville. After reviewing minutes and the treasurer’s report, the board will review the budget and the golf course management agreement renewal.  The board will receive an update on the skateboard park, and go over roof top bids for 112 E. Palmer. 

Under reports, the board will receive updates from the Maintenance Superintendent, Office Administrator, and Recreational Director. The board will approve payment of bills and hold a possible closed executive session. 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more on this meeting after the conclusion.

Ready up for the Red Event Casino Night!

HSHS Good Shepherd Foundation Director Joel Fletcher describes the event at 5:30 Friday, April 29th.

Fletcher says the foundation is excited for its 2nd annual casino night after a January COVID surge pushed the event back to the end of April. 

Also – don’t worry about the dress code. Fletcher says he just wants everyone to have fun and enjoy the food. 

Tickets are still available. 

Available games include roulette, black jack, texas hold ‘em, and more. 

Top three guests will win a gift basket. Learn more at hshs.org/goodshepherd/giving. Fletcher appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville. 

Shelby County’s “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” (CEO) Trade Show trade show is next week. It kicks off Thursday, May 4th. 

Board Chair Bonnie Moore describes how Shelby County CEO started. 

From Stewardson-Strasburg High School, Gracie Ogle recently opened her business “Just In Case,” allowing customers to express themselves through phone cases. 

Peyton Daniels is a senior at Central A&M High School. She recently started an entertainment company.

Windsor High School senior Vivian Ard is the owner of “Yassified!! by Vivian.”

The Shelby County CEO Trade Show kicks off at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 4, at the Spruce Street Studios in Shelbyville. 

Moore, Ogle, Daniels, and Ard appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville.

Photo courtesy of Shelby County CEO. Learn more at shelbycountyceo.com

A big crowd showed up to learn about the goods and services offered by the 12 Christian County C-E-O, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities", students Saturday afternoon during the 2022 C-E-O Trade Show at the Visionway Activity Center in Taylorville.  The event was broadcast live on WRAN groovy 97.3.

Emma Pennock, a senior at Taylorville High School, created and sold her own line of jewelry.

Kennedie Cearlock, a senior at Taylorville High School, created and sold car air fresheners.

Averi Stephens, a senior at Taylorville High School, created and sold car charms that hang on the rear view mirror.

Evan Morgan, a senior at Taylorville High School, took an idea he had in 7th grade, to create a mushroom-growing business.

The Christian County CEO Trade Show Saturday was the culmination of the students' participation in the program this school year.  Applications are now being accepted from Christian County high school seniors for the 2022-23 edition.  The on-line application is available at christiancountyceo.com.

A big crowd showed up to learn about the goods and services offered by the 12 Christian County C-E-O, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities", students Saturday afternoon during the 2022 C-E-O Trade Show at the Visionway Activity Center in Taylorville.  The event was broadcast live on WRAN groovy 97.3.

Alyson Williams, a senior at Taylorville High School, created and sold treats for pets.

Averi Noreiul, a senior at Taylorville High School, created and sold custom paintings and home decor signs.

The Christian County CEO Trade Show Saturday was the culmination of the students' participation in the program this school year.  Applications are now being accepted from Christian County high school seniors for the 2022-23 edition.  The on-line application is available at christiancountyceo.com.

A Taylorville Memorial Foundation grant is helping local firefighters with grain bin entrapments. Taylorville Fire has responded to three grain bin emergency rescues in the past two years and one of those resulted in a fatality. 24 firefighters from the Taylorville Fire Department and its mutual aid districts enrolled in grain bin rescue certification classes through the Illinois Fire Service Institute. 

Taylorville Memorial Foundation has donated $15,000 in a community health grant to allow the fully trained firefighters to be fully equipped. The grant provided equipment for three rope rescue kits, 10 personal kits for rescuers, as well as a battery-powered cut-off saw for cutting into a grain bin and three battery-powereds light towers to illuminate inside the bin, top of the bin, and the ground outside of the bin.  The grant also covers the cost of two MSA Safety Company Altair 4x gas monitors, which allow rescuers in the bin and outside the bin to measure gas levels simultaneously.

The grant is provided through the foundation’s board-directed Community Health Grant Program, which launched in 2021 to assist with funding health-related projects in Christian County.  Raedena Ryan, the foundation’s executive director says she is thrilled. “Taylorville Memorial Hospital is a community hospital serving a rural population with needs that are often very specific to the work that occurs on a farm or agricultural production site.  We are proud to offer this assistance to our local firefighters, who will use this equipment in combination with their expertise to save lives.”

While the mask mandate has been lifted, the Illinois Governor wants you to know it’s ok if you still want to wear one.  Governor JB Pritzker says that if you want to wear a mask it’s completely ok. He asks others to be kind and be aware that some people may still want to wear theirs.

The Governor says he always has a mask with him, just in case he needs to wear one.

Covid-19 cases have recently been going up.  The latest daily tally is more than 3500 new infections. Governor Pritzker lifted the mask mandate for public transport this past week, and the indoor requirement has been lifted since February 28th. 
 

Slow down and give yourself more time before you leave. 

That’s the message from Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp.

Sheriff Kettelkamp says violations can be expensive and even land you in jail. 

Sheriff Kettelkamp says to be especially cautious speeding on county highways. 

On a separate note, Sheriff Kettelkamp asks you to be cautious on water-covered roads. 

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

Peoples Bank & Trust have announced a new member of their Board of Directors. Brittany D. Walters is Chief Financial Officer of MCC Network Services headquartered in Sullivan. The company operates over 3,500 mile middle mile network enabling networking services throughout Illinois. 

Walters is a graduate of Arthur High School and holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Masters of Accountancy from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Brittany is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the American Institute of CPA. She lives with her husband Michael in Sullivan with their four children; Maddison, Taylor, Jack, and Leland. 

Other members of the bank and holding company’s Board include Michael M. Trexler, Michael Beyers, David Slater, John Gardner, David Dorn Jr., Brad Davis, Chris Swing, and Josh Shallenberger. 

People’s Bank and Trust is a locally owned and managed, independent community bank with ten offices located in Charleston, Altamont, Tower Hill, Pana, Taylorville, Morrisonville, Springfield, Waverly, Palmyra, and White Hall.
 

A long road has led Nokomis School District to the light at the end of the tunnel. 

Superintendent Dr. Scott Doer reflects on the events that started in March 2020 on Friday the 13th. 

Some of the positives include expanded ways of teaching and learning. 

Dr. Doer says school district learned a lot from the pandemic. He says his district is already planning for the next school year, and he’s starting to see more normalcy in day-to-day classroom life. 

He also says the pandemic forced many districts like his to catch up on technology. He’s proud of the way the district advanced. 

Dr. Doer appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The 2022 Primary Elections take place in late June. U.S. Representative Rodney Davis provides an overview. 

Rep. Davis is running in a newly drawn district. 

Perhaps his most notable opponent is Mary Miller, a current congresswoman representing the 15th district. Rep. Davis notes she is not from the district she is running for. 

Of President Trump’s endorsement of Rep. Miller, Rep. Davis says he also worked very close with President Trump during his White House tenure. 

Ultimately, Rep. Davis says he trusts voters will look at his voting record and make the choice that makes sense for the district. 

Learn more at rodneydavis.house.gov. Rep. Davis appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The co-owner of Domino Engineering and Wrap, Pack, and Ship, both in Taylorville, has died.

66-year-old Alan Peterson of Springfield, passed away late last week at a Springfield hospital.

Alan and his brother Larry owned and operated Domino Engineering for over 40 years.  They also operated the Wrap, Pack, and Ship Center, inside their offices on South Spresser.

The Christian County Board met on Tuesday evening for over three hours to discuss business, ordinances, and review committee reports. The board held a moment of silence for Charles DeClerck, longtime board member, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 93. Some of the community spoke out about the CO2 project being promoted in Christian County. Steve Brockelesby, with the group Christian County Citizens to protect the Aquifer says that over 80% of the community that he spoke to are against this. 

Steve Sipes, with the Zoning Board of Appeals, announced Mark Dozier, another member’s resignation. He said that the Zoning Board feels like the Christian County Board is trying to use them as a scapegoat. 

The meeting continued with statements about the courthouse floor, animal control issues, and even more statements on the CO2 project including eminent domain and more projects that may be coming in. Clint Epley was sworn into District 4, after the resignation of Gene Price. Ron Brown was appointed Maintenance Supervisor and Denny Stiner was approved for the Owaneco Fire Protection District. 

After much discussion, a suggestion was made for a six-month moratorium on the CO2 project to get further information on it.  The board pushed forward a motion to table the motion for the six-month moratorium and send it back to the personnel committee. The motion passed and it is being sent back to the personnel committee. Lan Richart, an ecologist with the Eco-Justice Collaborative out of Champaign, Illinois, spoke out about concerns about carbon pipelines. Richart asked the board and farmers before they make a decision on this project to be informed.

The board discussed low-income housing and tabled it sending it back to the personnel committee, the board reviewed ZBA meeting pay and some recommendations, and they talked about ARPA and the labor for the floor support project. The board also talked about survey records, and county board rules and went into a closed session.  The next county board meeting is set for May 17th. 

Macon County Conservation District hosting its annual Festival of Spring Saturday, April 23rd at the Rock Springs Conservation Center. 

Senior Program Naturalist Brock Rowland invites you to a jam-packed day. 

Rowland says Festival of Spring kicks off at 8 in the morning with bird banding and the Sangamon River cleanup. 

The Festival of Spring is a great way to go on a guided hike or learn about birds of prey. 

It’s also a great chance to check out the center’s new “Eco Center.”

Most events are free, with a small fee of less than $5 for a couple of activities Learn more at maconcountyconservation.org. Rowland appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Kemmerer Village in Assumption provides support for children and their families through residential treatment, foster care, recreational therapy and more. 

Executive director SchalesNagle describes Kemmerer’s mission. 

Nagle says Kemmerer Village is hiring. 

Nagle has worked for Kemmerer Village for over two decades. She has a success story or two under her belt. 

She also talks about the type of transformation she sees in children who are staying at Kemmerer Village. 

Learn more at kemmerervillage.org. Nagle appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A former Taylorville employee has been sentenced to two years probation for a theft case while she worked for a Lake Taylorville Concession Stand in 2020.  64-year-old Robbin A. Sheets formerly of Taylorville was charged with theft of between $10,000 and $100,000 while she worked for Lake Taylorville.  Police say it had been going on for a while. 

With money missing from various accounts, an undercover police officer went to the lake to rent a jet ski.  The next day there was no record of the transaction and Sheets was brought in for questioning where she confessed to taking the money. 

Some of the money that was taken could not be accounted for. An audit showed the amount of money at $3,325 and Sheets will have to pay a total of $4,794 in fines, fees, and restitution. Sheets was sentenced in Christian County Court Tuesday morning. 

A high speed chase ended in Taylorville with two suspects getting away. According to police, officers were called to CVS in Hillsboro to investigate a fraudulent prescription on Tuesday afternoon. When police arrived a suspect fled the scene and got into a black Honda with another person.  Two Hillsboro police squad vehicles chased after the Honda before the Honda turned around in a dead end street and drove directly at the police.  

Police continued to follow the vehicle through Hillsboro and onto Route 48 in Christian County, passing through Morrisonville, Palmer, and into Taylorville. The pursuit ended as it neared Taylorville due to increased traffic. 

The vehicle in question is a black 2015 Honda with Illinois License Plates Y732876 and police say the driver is described as a Black male with dreadlocks and the passenger is a thin Black male.  If you have any information on the incident in question, call the Hillsboro Police Department at 217-532-6120. 

Taylorville School Board met for its monthly meeting Tuesday evening. 

The board heard from Taylorville Junior High School Principal Eric Bruder, who reported a range of 61 percent attendance for 5th graders, to around 90 percent attendance for 7th graders, with 6th and 8th graders falling somewhere in between. 

Bruder says 173 students at TJHS crossed threshold as chronic absentees for 2021-2022. He says he doesn’t know exactly why, but lists mental health and the pandemic as possibilities. 

On a separate note, Bruder says attendance at TJHS is up. He just can’t quantify it as of right now. He’s also extremely pleased with the STUCO program incentivizing students to earn better grades with rewards of bowling and roller skating trips, cookies, and more. 

Meanwhile, the school’s “Catch My Breath” program has found success. Bruder says students who came forward admitting they had a problem with vaping or cigarettes will be honored at an assembly Wednesday. 

The board also reviewed the consent agenda, approving minutes, claims, and reports. The board reviewed new and old business, which included the renewal of the school’s membership in the IHSA and the renewal of a CTI contract through June 2023. The board accepted both unanimously. 

Superintendent Dr. Chris Dougherty provided a legislative update. 

The board then went into a closed session to consider personnel. Taylorville School Board’s next scheduled monthly meeting is May 17th. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about the Faith Bible Christian Academy in Rosamond, during their weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

Matt Houser has been the principal at the faith-based school for 2 years, coming to the position after being an overseas missionary in several countries for some 10 years.  He shared with the Kiwanis members, his heart to serve the 126 students F-B-C-A has from 22 different communities and 5 counties. 

Houser said that while tuition covers some of the expenses at the private school, they also hold various fund-raisers during the school year, and also accept monetary contributions from the public. 

While he shared about all that the school does, Houser also encouraged Kiwanis members to spend time with children, whether it’s as a parent, grandparent, or mentor.

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

Christian County 4-H celebrating National Volunteer Week. It’s this week from April 18th through 24th. 

4-H Program Coordinator Alexis McDowell says that volunteers are vital to the Christian County 4-H program. She adds that volunteers lead clubs, teach workshops and share their knowledge and skill set with the next generation of youth. 

4-H youth development specialist for volunteer development Patricia McGlaughlin says that annually, volunteers spend nearly $3,000 worth of time per volunteer. Yet, the gift of their time, skills and passion is invaluable to the youth they support. 

Christian County 4-H is always looking for new volunteers to share a passion, skill, talent or time to help impact today’s youth. Contact the Christian County Extension Office for more information on how you can become a volunteer with 4-H. 

This is the last week of the Christian County YMCA’s Sustaining Drive. 

Not only will your donation of $50 or more waive your first month’s membership dues, but that money will support a family or potential member who needs it. Director Bruce Blanshan explains. 

Blanshan can’t stop thanking the community for their efforts to raise around $38,000 so far. 

He also can’t believe the size of the average donation – roughly $245 per donation. Blanshan says every bit counts. 

Blanshan thanks all the volunteers for their efforts in the sustaining drive. 

The Sustaining Drive lasts until Wednesday. The Y will accept donations afterwards as well. Learn more at ccymca.org. Blanshan appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

City of Taylorville hosting a couple of events this coming weekend.

Saturday, April 23rd is the Little League parade. Mayor Bruce Barry says it’s the 70th anniversary of Red Bland Little League. 

Mayor Barry says he remembers when he played Little League, and what an honor it is to be in the parade. He invites you to come out Saturday. 

Saturday the 23rd is also the town cleanup day. 

Mayor Barry expects another successful cleanup day. 

The city cleanup day takes place at the street department. The Little League parade occurs on the Taylorville Square. Mayor Barry appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Taylorville School Board meets this evening at 6 at the Taylorville High School cafeteria to hear from visitors, review communications, the consent agenda and old and new business. 

Under communications, the board will hear a report from Taylorville Junior High School.

Pertaining to new business, the board will consider plans for school improvement, consider the CTI Technology contract and go over Summer School Credit Recovery Information. The board will then hear from the superintendent and go into a closed session if needed. 

For the Consent Agenda, the board will review minutes of the March 16 and 23 Building Committee Meetings, the March 15 regular meeting and the March 24 Special Board Meeting. 

The board will also review and approve claims, the treasurers report, consideration of personnel and the consideration of overnight trips.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more on this story at the conclusion of the meeting. 

First United Methodist Church in Pana hosting the National Day of Prayer event May 5th. 

Roger Swim is an organizer of the event. 

Swim recalls how National Day of Prayer started.

Community Leaders will speak at the event starting at 5:30. 

Swim is part of a group of veterans taking charge of this event. 

Learn more on the Pana First United Methodist Church Facebook. Swim appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County Board will meet on Tuesday evening at 6:30 PM at the Christian County Courthouse. The board will review some salaries along with appointing an open meeting act officer and a 3 year term for Denny Stiner to the Owaneco Fire District.  The board will also discuss the carbon capture and storage ordinance, go over text amendment 1-3-17, discuss Taylorville Square Renovations, Solid Waste and Highway business. Locust Bridge #3 will be discussed and animal control will be reviewed. 

The board will discuss an additional jailer, review the windows at the courthouse, go over cat room bids, and look at an ARPA Fund Request.  Under new business the board will go over health bids, go over carbon pipline concerns, discuss low income housing, talk about a vehicle for the Emergency Management Agency, Talk stump removal, go over some Zoning Board motions, and talk County Board Rules. 

There will be a closed session, and the next meeting is set to take place on May 17th.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more on this story after the conclusion of the meeting. 

A Kincaid woman has been sentenced to three years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on April 15th. Cheyenne Treat was located in the crawl space of a residence at 414 E. 1525 N. Road in South Fork Township in February and was arrested for burglary. 5 individuals have been arrested this year for burglarizing this address.  Treat was charged with burglary, a Class 2 felony and this is her first sentence to the Illinois Department of Corrections. 

Christian County State’s Attorney Wes Poggenpohl, thanked the Christian County Sheriff’s Office along with Deputy Andrew Voorhees, and K9 officer Motley for locating and apprehending the individuals involved. 

A Taylorville FFA student was recognized as Youth of the Month and Solar power was approved for the water treatment plant in Taylorville at the first April City Council meeting. Lizzie Schafer was recognized as the youth of the month and April 18th was declared as Lizzie Schafer day for her hard work and dedication to the FFA and towards her work. 

A motion was brought forward to authorize the Mayor to sign the Illinois Solar for a solar energy project at the City’s Water Plant Facilities.  Kathy Driskell was the only one who asked a question about it, checking to see if any of the people over near the water plant knew about this solar project.  Mayor Bruce Barry says no one will see the solar panels. 

Mayor Bruce Barry thanked DowntownTaylorville.org for all their help in making Taylorville thrive.

In other city council news, the council approved purchasing grain bin rescue equipment for Fire Chief Matt Adermann, forwarding the fire department budget to the finance committee, approving the promotion of Jaclyn McConnell to an Office Level II position, advertising for a plant operator and a crew leader at the water treatment plant, and approving hiring one police officer, dispatcher, and firefighter. 

The next city council meeting is set for May 2nd. 

Shelbyville Public Library is always looking for ways to improve. 

Director Monica Cameron says you should stop by some time and see some of the improvements. 

Cameron says the library is expanding its large print section. 

Cameron invites parents to sign their kids up for the summer reading program. Book credit starts June 6th

Cameron says it doesn’t matter which books you read to kids or which books kids read themselves. The important thing is that they keep those reading skills they learned over the course of the school year.

Learn more at shelbyvillelibrary.org. Cameron appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville City Council will meet on Monday evening at 7 PM at the Taylorville Municipal Building to discuss business, review ordinances, and go over committee reports.  The board will approve minutes, and review signing a motion for Illinois Solar concerning the city water plant facilities, the board will also approve a special events permit for Cork N’ Keg on May 13th. 

Under committee reports, the board will review purchasing equipment for grain bin rescue for the fire department and approve the fire budget. The board will approve the promotion of Jaclyn McConnell, advertise for a water plant operator, and a crew leader for the water treatment plant, advertise for a police dispatcher, and hire one new police officer and one firefighter. 

The board will approve some equipment for the water treatment plant and make some lake/airport purchases. The board will hear from the City Attorney and Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more after the conclusion of the meeting.

A marathon-style legislative session concluded in early April.

Illinois State Representative Brad Halbrook says many of the bills passed came in the dead of the night. 

Rep. Halbrook provides details of passed legislation. 

Rep. Halbrook calls many of these bills election year gimmicks. 

Rep. Halbrook says Governor JB Pritzker is hanging tax relief in front of voters heads for votes.

Learn more at rephalbrook.com. Rep. Halbrook appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The IDPH is urging Illinoisans to use caution as COVID-19 numbers are slowly increasing.  Acting IDPH Director Amaal Tokars says that hospitalizations and deaths remain stable but there has been a slow increase in cases in the state. Vaccines are still highly encouraged.  You can find out where your vaccination location is near you, by visiting www.vaccines.gov.  The State of Illinois says that remains strongly positioned to respond if COVID-19 has another surge.  The State replenished its stockpile of tests and has more than 1.5 million on hand with ½ million on the way.  Hospitals, schools, and long-term care facilities have been urged to take steps to increase their testing capacity.  

The IDPH is also encouraging health care workers and pharmacists to get treatment to their patients quickly—within 5 days of the onset of symptoms, to help prevent the spread of the virus. Boosters are also encouraged with the CDC authorizing a second booster dose for segments of the population at least four months after the first booster dose is given.  

Finally, state health officials stress the following precautions: get vaccinated and stay up to date on boosters, if you are in an area with rising COVID-19 infections, wear a mask, stick to well-ventilated areas, if you feel flu-like symptoms, stay home and self isolate, if you test positive, talk to your provider immediately so you can get treatment, and continue to frequently wash your hands and cover coughs and sneezes.  For more information visit: https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19.html. 

Your family should always know what would happen in the rare case that something happens to you. April 16th was National Healthcare Decisions Day.  New statistics show that 70% of Americans do not have an advanced care plan in place for control of their health care needs should a situation arise.  HSHS Illinois Hospitals are encouraging all Illinoisans to have those conversations and put their wishes into writing. 

Medical providers are reminding everyone that discussions around advance directives, living wills, and a power of attorney are critical and decisions made now could have significant impacts down the road, including making things easier for your family and health care providers. 

National Healthcare Decision Day was founded in 2008 as a way to encourage families to discuss those health care decisions sooner rather than later and to make those end-of-life decisions for health care known. Some topics to discuss with your family include naming a power of attorney for health care, how you want to be cared for, religious practices or limitations, and who can access your medical records. 

For more information about advance directives or how to start the conversation, visit the CDC website or visit https://www.cdc.gov/aging/advancecareplanning/index.htm. 

A Christian County judge sentenced a Taylorville woman to five years in the Illinois Department of Corrections Thursday. 

According to Christian County State’s Attorney Wes Poggenpohl, 28-year-old Constance Sherman pleads guilty to Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine related to an investigation the Taylorville Police Department and Community Action Team conducted in January. 

Sherman also has a concurrent two year sentence in the Department of Corrections for violating her probation in a previous Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine case. 

Poggenpohl thanks the Taylorville Police Department and Community Action team for their efforts combating the sale of methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs in the community. 

Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine is a Class 2 Felony carrying a sentencing range of 3 to 7 years in prison. This sentence will be served at 50 percent. 

A Shelby County Jury finds a Herrick man guilty of Aggravated Assault.

Monday, April 11th, the jury found 48-year-old Erik M. Ray guilty of the Class A Misdemeanor, which carries a max sentence of 364 days in jail. 

Shelby County Sheriff’s Office arrested Ray in early February. He confronted the victim and the victim’s wife who were his neighbors about statements they allegedly made about Ray’s dog. 

The victim told Ray to leave the residence after Ray threatened them. Ray began to leave, then turned around and tried to re-enter the home with a knife in his hand. 

The victim pushed Ray, causing him to fall from the porch. Ray then stood up with a large knife in his hand attempting to stab the victim in the stomach. Ray also had a black revolver on his person at the time of the incident. 

When police arrived, Ray surrendered a knife and the revolver, which was loaded with six rounds. The knife is a 6-inch Rambo-style knife. Police also took samples of Ray’s footsteps in the snow.

The victim has an opportunity to present a victim impact statement at Ray’s sentencing hearing June 13th. 

Shelby County State’s Attorney Nichole Kroncke thanks the jurors for their service and attentive consideration of the evidence in this case. 

Prom is one of the greatest nights of a teenager’s life. 

The lead-up to which can also be one of the most stressful times of their life. 

Memorial Health says that today’s high school students experience higher levels of stress and anxiety related to the big dance than their parents experienced. 

The reasons vary, but range from over the top “promposals,” financial stress, and peer pressure. 

Memorial says the prom tradition is becoming expensive. On average, the prom dress alone costs over $250. Throw in the limousine and expensive dinner and that’s a big prom bill. 

Licensed clinical social worker and director of behavioral therapy services with Memorial Behavioral Health Amber Olson says parents can reduce teen stress when they talk to their teen to set expectations, set a reasonable budget and to talk about peer pressure. 

Olson also suggests you should be aware of your teen trying crash diets or extreme workouts to lose weight or bulk up for prom. She says short-term gains can lay the groundwork for long-term unhealthy eating habits and poor body image. 

Olson says the most important thing you can do is reassure your teen and validate their feelings. You should also help your teen prepare with a fully charged cellphone, emergency cash and the assurance you are available for a judgment-free ride home if they find themselves in an unsafe situation. 

Learn more at memorial.health. 

The Illinois Treasurer’s Office can give you the tools to make sure your children are financially taken care of.

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs says that setting up a 529 investment account can be one of the best things you do for your child. 

Frerichs describes the difference between the Bright Start and Bright Directions investment accounts. 

The treasurer’s office also has the Illinois Able program which can make sure disabled children are well off. 

Frerichs describes a time this made a huge difference in the life of a mother of a disabled child. 

Learn more at illinoistreasurer.gov. Frerichs appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Pana Community Hospital creating more access to specialists near your home. 

Marketing manager Melissa Rybolt says the hospital has a couple new specialists. 

Rybolt says the hospital continues to add specialists to its staff. This keeps you close to home when you need a specialist. 

Pana Community Hospital also has four different orthopedic surgeons on staff.

In the same realm, this means you get to stay in the surgical suites closer to home should you need orthopedic care. 

Learn more at panacommunityhospital.com. Rybolt appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Bertrand Hopper Memorial Foundation last week donated $10,000 to the Christian County CEO Program, as part of the Foundation’s on-going efforts to support community causes.

The check was accepted by the CEO board at their April 8 monthly meeting.

The Christian County CEO, or “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” program, is entirely funded by local investors, and monies go to pay the salary of the CEO facilitator as well as yearly fees paid to the Midland Institute in Effingham, who administers and oversees the program nationwide.  The program teaches high school seniors who are accepted into the program, entrepreneurial skills with the hopes they’ll come back and become businesspeople in Christian County.

Students who participate in the program apply and are selected by a committee of CEO board members.  Students come from Christian County school districts.

Find out more on-line HERE.

Taylorville High School student Daniel Sloan is an IHSA All-State Academic Team member.

The IHSA has selected Sloan as one of many recipients of the honor. Superintendent Dr. Chris Dougherty describes the honor. 

Dr. Dougherty explains what she thinks the IHSA saw in Sloan. She says Sloan is very resourceful.

Sloan excels at cross country. Recently, he suffered an ankle injury. Dr. Dougherty admired the way he fought his way back into competition. She calls it inspiring. 

Sloan and his coach provided a speech at the ceremony Sunday, April 10th.

Dr. Dougherty appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A long road ahead for the Heartland Greenway project. Director of Project Development Monte Ten Kley provides an update. 

The Christian County board has a couple of requests for Tenaska before this project can take fruition. 

Ten Kley says Tenaska has provided the board with recommendations for ordinances. It is still the county board’s decision on how to move forward. 

Ten Kley describes the economic impact of the Heartland Greenway project.

Learn more at heartlandgreenway.com. Ten Kley appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

This week marks National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.  It is a chance to honor the hard work of emergency dispatchers throughout the State of Illinois. ISP Calls 9-1-1 dispatchers the unseen heroes of public safety and lawmakers are working on recognizing them for that. A new bill ensures that dispatchers are considered first responders.  State Senator Neil Anderson says that too many dispatchers don’t get credit for the work they do.

State Representative Dan Swanson says to take a minute this week and think about your dispatchers.

The designation allows dispatchers to access more benefits, grants, and training.

There is often a stigma against mental illness that prevents people from seeking treatment and Memorial Health is working on alleviating that stigma.  According to two behavioral health professionals the stigma usually effects men, minorities, and older adults. Some mental health issues include depression and anxiety disorders, panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Post traumatic stress disorder. Cody Spponmore, a behavioral health care coordinator with memorial Behavioral Health says that men often don’t seek help for mental health, because they have been conditioned to believe asking for help is not masculine behavior. 

Minorities can face inequities in the health care system encountering discrimination and language barriers in treatment settings, and older adults are even more reluctant to deal with mental health professionals due to being a generational issue. Mental Health Professionals encourage individuals who are dealing with mental health issues to reach out to someone.  

Memorial Health System’s Behavioral Health has a phone number that you can reach out for help 217-525-1064. There are also many easily accessible options for those taking that first step.  Telehealth allows you to meet with a counselor in the safe environment of your home. “The Living Room” provides an alternative to hospital emergency rooms for adults experiencing psychiatric emergencies.  If you are over 18, you can receive free support from peer and mental health professionals and get linked with a  peer counselor upon arrival.  Hours are 12PM-8PM M-F at 710 N. 8th Street in Springfield.

Memorial Behavioral Health’s Emotional Support Line, a free service, is available from 8 AM to 8 PM M-F at 588-6609. For more information, visit https://memorial.health/medical-services/behavioral-health/.

The IDPH is adopting new guidelines for tracking COVID-19 at the community level.  A new focus is on case rates and hospitalizations in communities. Test providers will no longer be required to report some negative tests and IDPH will no longer report test and case positivity. IDPH is bolstering data on its dashboard to provide additional information to help communities respond to changes in the course of the virus.

IDPH will now track updated data on vaccination rates to reflect the full population eligible as eligibility continues to evolve, the number of people admitted to the hospital with covid, and more detailed data on hospitalizations. IDPH Acting Director Dr. Amaal Tokars.

According to Dr. Tokars, test and case positivity rates are seen as a good way to monitor community spread. 

As far as the CDC goes, they will be relying on three metrics and will now classify risk as low, medium, and high.  The three metrics are new covid-19 cases per 100,000 in the past 7 days, new covid-19 admissions per 100,000 in the last 7 days, and staffed inpatient beds occupied by COVID-19 patients.

IDPH encourages everyone to get vaccinated and if you test positive, talk to your provider immediately to get COVID-19 treatment.  For more information visit the Illinois Department of Public Health. 

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office continued their Operation REAL with more narcotics arrests this past week. 33-year-old Amanda M. Owens of Litchfield, 36-year-old Joseph W. Robbins of Litchfield, and 50-year-old Yancy Costello of Litchfield were all arrested for unlawful delivery of methamphetamine.  All wanted individuals were located and taken into custody in Montgomery County between April 7th and April 10th.  

Operation REAL was conducted between the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, the Hillsboro Police Department, Litchfield Police Department, Illinois State Police, South Central Illinois Drug Task Force, and the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office.  Arrest warrants were obtained as a result of multiple narcotic investigations conducted by the South Central Illinois Drug Task Force and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. 

Additional Arrest warrants are being sought for several individuals for the delivery of methamphetamine and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office says more arrests are coming. 

Taylorville High School Sports Hall of Fame inducting their 25th class at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 23rd at the Taylorville High School Cafeteria. 

Committee chairman and organizer Dave Hixenbaugh invites the public to an Angelo’s catered meal and award ceremony. Tickets on sale until Saturday, April 16th. 

Hixenbaugh is excited to induct two different Taylorville teams into the Hall of Fame. 

Former Mayor Greg Brotherton, a 1975 graduate of Taylorville High School, will enter into the Hall for his achievements in football and track. 

Other inductees include 2004 graduate Beth Gibbs, 1920 graduate Vern Mullen, who played for the Chicago Bears, and 1976 graduate and current Mayor Bruce Barry. 

Hixenbaugh says you can still purchase tickets to the induction ceremony. 

Hixenbaugh appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Pana Community Hospital is more than just a hospital. It is a place where community members can gather and stay healthy at the LiveWell Fitness Center. 

Melissa Rybolt is the marketing manager for Pana Community Hospital.

Rybolt wants you to check out the center to see if it’s a good fit. Fitness hours are from 5 to 7 a.m. and 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. It is also open Saturdays from 7 to noon. 

Silver Sneakers fitness classes are for those who have limited mobility. There are also a lot of virtual options. 

Rybolt suggests a personal trainer can keep you accountable.

Learn more at panahospital.com. Rybolt appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Construction season is ramping up and the Illinois Department of Transportation, ISP, Illinois Tollway, industry partners, and construction workers, want you to be aware that it is National Work Zone Awareness Week.  The public is urged to slow down, put down their devices, and keep their eyes on the road.  The theme for this year's awareness week is “Work Zones are A Sign To Slow Down.” IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel asks everyone to pay attention to weather and speed.

Wappel says slow down.

Public should be ready for lane closures, changes in traffic patterns, reduced speed limits, and the presence of workers and equipment.  More than 6,700 motor vehicle crashes on average occur in Illinois work zones and with more than 1600 injuries.  In 2021, 25 people died in work zones in Illinois, none of which were workers, the first time that’s happened since 2015. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about the efforts of the “Small Town Taylorville” Committee, during their weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

Steve Craggs with the “Small Town Taylorville” Committee, shared all the volunteer committee has done to attract people to visit Taylorville.  With funding from the City of Taylorville’s Business Development District tax, the committee embarked on a multi-media campaign including radio, on-line, newspaper, billboard and social media, to promote the community—not only its retail base, but all facets of the community including government, health care, media and more, all contributing to the quality of life for the town.  Craggs said the effort is very unique.

Craggs said the committee, in working with the Downtown Taylorville organization, has created numerous retail events as well as Car Shows and a Picker’s Market, to add to their successful Farmer’s Market events on the square, all with the intent of bringing more people to town.

Craggs added that reports from merchants and others are that retail sales are up, foot traffic is up, and web traffic wanting more information on the town is up.  More information on the “Small Town Taylorville” Committee can be found by clicking HERE.

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

Now is the time to sign your child up for Head Start.

Nicole Gardewine is the Family & Community Engagement Manager for C.E.F.S. 

Head Start is a pre-K program that is free for everyone. It focuses on making sure children are developmentally on track. 

C.E.F.S. also has an Early Head Start Program that pregnant mothers can sign up for. 

The Early and regular Head Start Programs are absolutely free. Gardewine says everyone should sign up. 

Learn more at cefseoc.org. Gardewine appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Some startling statistics have been released from the FBI showing that cyberattacks and malicious cyber activity have seen an unprecedented increase over the last year.  The Internet Crime Complaint Center or IC3 received a total of 847,376 complaints with a 7% increase from the previous year, with potential losses exceeding $6.9 billion.  The largest age group of those affected by internet crime are citizens aged 60 and older.

Ransomware, business e-mail compromise, and cryptocurrency are among the top incidents reported with email compromise schemes resulting in 19,954 complaints with an adjusted loss of nearly $2.4 billion. Illinois was 5th highest for the number of victims at 17,999 and 7th highest for victim dollar loss at $184.9 million. 

The IC3 was established by the FBI in 2020 to receive complaints of internet crime.  It has received more than 6.5 million complaints with an average of about 552,000 per year over the last 5 years. The FBI recommends reviewing consumer and industry alerts by visiting https://www.ic3.gov/Home/ConsumerAlertsChoice

If you are the victim of an internet crime, you can submit a complaint to www.ic3.gov. The FBI encourages you to stay vigilant when dealing with online transactions. 

Rep. Avery Bourne responds to campaign ads against Republican candidate for governor Richard Irvin.

Rep. Bourne is Irvin’s choice for Lt. Governor. 

The Democratic Governors Association ad alleges Irvin worked as a defense attorney to put violent criminals back on the street. Moreover, the ad alleges Irvin made a fortune off these cases. 

Rep. Bourne says this is misleading. 

A Chicago Tribune article says that Irvin sent a letter supporting a crime bill, while publicly smashing the bill calling it anti-police. Rep. Bourne chalks this up to politics. 

Rep. Bourne encourages you to get out and vote. 

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

Scooter's Coffee will be holding their monthly “Day of Giving” event today. This month will go towards the Taylorville Sports Boosters.  Scooter's will be giving 20% of their profits today towards the Sports Boosters. Scooter's Co-owner Lauryn McGlasson says it’s about giving back to the school.

This event will be done every second Tuesday of the month with a different nonprofit picked every month. Scooter's Coffee is located at the intersection of Illinois Routes 29 and 104 in Taylorville.

The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal announced that recipients of the 2022 Small Equipment Grant Program would receive $2.5 million total to 104 fire departments and districts throughout the state of Illinois.  The program was established to provide grants of up to $26,000 for the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment. 

This program helps fire departments that are in need along with not-for profit ambulance services and those that struggle to generate revenue. The OSFM received 373 applications which requested around $8.4 million in funding for this grant period. 

All fire departments, districts, townships, and stand alone ambulance service providers were encouraged to apply. All applicants were required to have participated in the National Fire Incident Reporting System for a minimum of two years before applying. 

Recipients of the grants include Clinton Fire & Rescue, $24,770; Tri-County Fire Protection District in Effingham, $25,566; St. Peter Fire Protection District, $24,630; Blue Mound Fire Protection District, $26,000; Staunton Area Ambulance Service, $16,732; Coffeen Fire Protection District, $25,560; Bethany Fire Protection District, $19,000; 

The biggest job facing lawmakers every year is passing the state budget. The budget passed late in the night and Senator Steve McClure says that the 3,200 page budget that was brought to the floor with just a few hours of review falls short of the mark. The plan is to spend $46 billion during the new fiscal year. Senator McClure says there is a severe lack of transparency.

With over $1.8 billion in tax relief, some provisions include lifting the one percent grocery tax for a year, and delaying the gas tax increase until January.  The budget also doubles property tax rebates up to $300 and sends a one time payment of at least $50 to most individuals and $100 per kid.  Decatur Representative Sue Scherer.

There will also be a sales tax holiday for back to school purchases and an EIC for low income working families. Senator Chapin Rose of Champaign says that people need permanent relief not “election gimmicks.”

Governor JB Pritzker praised the budget, saying that this is the fourth year in a row the budget has been balanced. He says that this bill supports local governments, provides tax relief, and boosts staffs at nursing homes, but most importantly it helps address crime in the state. 

The Governor says that the budget adds 300 new state troopers, supports mental health for police officers, funds more college students, and provides tax relief including those one time payments.

License fees for bars and restaurants will be suspended as the hospitality industry is still reeling from the effects of COVID-19. 

Scientists and doctors are learning more and more about mental health and the effects that it has on youth, especially those in college settings where the pressure is high to do well, and the stress of failure is always sitting in the back of ones mind. COVID-19 has also played havoc on the wellness of students who have felt the need to address long lasting effects of trauma, isolation, loss, and of course stress. 

Cree Medley, a double major graduate from the University of Illinois Chicago knew first hand about the struggles of dealing with mental health and going to school. 

A bill that is being pushed through would help schools address mental health issues.  HB5424/SB4055 would appropriate $19 million in 2023 to fully fund mental health in campus.  The Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act became law in 2019 and required all public two-and four-year college and universities across the state to increase mental health supports but did not guarantee any funding.  This bill would help fund it. Medley says this is extremely important because college students are often left out when it comes to these kinds of bills.

Medley says to reach out to your legislators. 

Medley says if you’re in school, take care of yourself. 

SB4055 is still in committee as of this writing. 

Illinois General Assembly approved HB3637 to amend the School Construction law. 

Shelbyville School District Superintendent Shane Schuricht welcomes the bill, but remains skeptical on the impact. 

Schuricht says that Shelbyville would have to apply if the money is appropriated. If approved, the state would pay for a large portion of school construction.  

Schuricht hopes to construct a new building for Shelbyville School District. 

Shelbyville School District is still in the planning phase for the construction.

Schuricht appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville.

Villas of Hollybrook is a senior living option in Shelbyville with 1 and 2 bedroom units available. 

Executive Director Nicki Perry explains. 

Perry is proud of the quality of the apartments. 

Villas of Hollybrook knows how to keep its residents entertained. 

It even has its own theater. 

Learn more at meridiansenior.com. Perry appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville.

A Niles man has pleaded guilty to aggravated battery with a firearm in Christian County Court Friday.  22-year-old Jacob R. Mariacher, plead guilty to the class X felony from an incident that occurred on March 14th, 2021 near the intersection of 200 North Road and 2350 East Road in Pana.  

According to Christian County State’s Attorney Wes Poggenpohl, Officers from the Pana Police Department and the Illinois State Police conducted an investigation into the shooting which led to the arrest of Mariacher in Taylorville. 

Mariacher was located in possession of the firearm that was used during the incident and he was prohibited from possessing a firearm based on a prior conviction of a felony. The victim, a minor, sustained non-life-threatening injuries as a result of the gunshot wound, and Mariacher will be sentenced on May 26th, 2022 at the Christian County Courthouse. At 1:15 PM.

Aggravated Battery with a Firearm is a Class X felony, which is non-probational.  The sentencing range will be from 6-30 years in the Department of Corrections served at 85%. It also carries 3 years parole or mandatory supervised release. 

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 8th annual Spring Swing. 

It’s an indoor putt-putt golf fundraiser. Executive Director Linda Allen says registration closes April 15th for the April 30th event. 

At the end of the event, the chamber will raffle off a decked-out Beach Cart filled with top shelf liquor, beer and other goodies. 

Allen says if you go to the event and don’t drink, you should still buy raffle tickets anyway.

She also provides a small list of things you need – including a designated driver. 

The Spring Swing takes place at six different locations. The chamber will announce the winner of the raffle at 5 p.m. at the Palomino Club. 

Learn more at taylorvillechamber.com. Allen appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A Shelbyville man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of armed violence. 39-year-old James C. Anderson of Shelbyville, Illinois plead guilty on Wednesday.  According to Shelby County State’s Attorney Nichole Kroncke, Anderson will serve the maximum 30-year sentence for the armed violence charge, which involved the possession of more than 100 grams of methamphetamine, and will serve a concurrent 12-year sentence for an armed habitual criminal charge, an offense that requires 85% of the sentence to be served with no day-for-day good time credit. 

The incident occurred on August 29th, when Shelby County Sheriff’s deputies attempted to stop Anderson’s vehicle after observing him driving and knowing that Anderson’s driving privileges were revoked. Anderson turned northbound onto 800 East Road and then accelerated westbound onto 1300 North Road when a sheriff’s deputy activated his lights and siren.  During the pursuit, the vehicle spun out and drove at the Deputy who was pursuing him.  Anderson then drove back onto Route 16 traveling northbound at a speed of nearly 80 mph.  At one point leaving the roadway at one point with the vehicle on two leaves. Anderson would then lose control of the vehicle striking a fence and a building in the area of Olive and Vine Street.

Anderson, along with a second male and a female fled on foot with Deputy David Myers and Canine Hektor pursuing. Anderson ran to an area of tall weeds and was taken to the ground by a canine. Police searched Anderson’s vehicle and found two loaded pistols; one stolen 9mm and a 40 caliber pistol with 14 rounds in the magazine. Deputies also located and seized 182.6 grams of methamphetamine from the vehicle. 

Anderson had previously served an 8-year prison sentence for an unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon charge, and a 9-year prison sentence in 2009 for the offense of burglary.  Shelby County State’s Attorney Nichole Kroncke commended the work of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office thanking them for removing a dangerous criminal from the community. 

Legislators have been busy with much activity in Springfield, and along with the budget, a lot of smaller bills have been pushing their way through the House and the Senate and into Governor JB Pritzker’s hands.  One bill that has been signed into law by Governor Pritzker is a bill protecting teachers who get COVID-19—as long as they’re vaccinated. The law allows school staff who are fully vaccinated paid leave if they are infected.  The Governor says teachers have had to deal with every aspect of COVID. 

Senate President Don Harmon fully supports this bill.  Vaccinated Teachers who previously have had to use sick days because of the virus will get those days back. 

This law will apply to public kindergarten through 12th grade schools as well as colleges and universities. 

In other legislation news, DCFS workers will be better equipped to defend themselves should a situation arise. A bill being sent to the Governor’s desk, wil allow DCFS investigators to carry pepper spray when visiting a home. The legislation is being sponsored by Senator Steve McClure.

Investigators will have to go through a training course with the state police on the proper use of the defensive spray. This move is prompted by the murder of two women conducting home visits.

The bill must be signed into law by the governor. 

The Illinois State Police Division of Internal Investigation continues to conduct their investigation into an Illinois State Police Trooper who discharged his weapon after the pursuit of a homicide suspect wanted in connection with the murder of two women in the Collinsville area on April 2nd. 

The Illinois State Police have released the video of the event to the public in accordance with their public transparency and integrity commitment.  To view this video, click here, but as a warning to our readers, the video is graphic. The video is being released after consultation with the Christian County State’s Attorney and the families of the deceased individuals involved in the events of that day.

The investigation is still ongoing and is being conducted by ISP DII and is under review by the Christian County State’s Attorney’s Office. 

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is recognizing a local hero who saved a young man’s life. On April 2nd, 2022 at 7:05 AM Shawn Berroyer left his residence in Kincaid and was on his way to Walmart in Taylorville when he noticed something unusual in a wooded area just off IL Route 104.  About ½ mile southeast of the city limits of Kincaid, Berroyer spotted something red in the brushy area. After stopping his vehicle, Berroyer then investigated. The object that he discovered was a pickup truck that had struck a tree.

Berroyer called 9-1-1 and notified them of the accident and discovered a male occupant in the pickup truck and gave aid until law enforcement and EMS arrived. Christian County Deputies are investigating the vehicle crash and it is unknown when the actual accident occurred.  The vehicle was a 2013 Ford F-150 pickup truck driven by 48 year old Joseph K. Ruyle from Taylorville. Dunn’s ambulance transported Ruyle to a Springfield hospital with serious injuries.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp praised Berroyer for not only seeing something suspicious and reporting it, but also investigating what was going on. The Sheriff says that Berroyer probably saved Ruyle’s life. His injuries prevented him from getting out of the vehicle and walking to get help. 

Sheriff Kettelkamp awarded Berroyer with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office Award of Outstanding Service and says that Berroyer demonstrates what kind of community Christian County has when citizens step up and take action to help one another. The Sheriff continued by stating that he couldn’t be more proud of being the Sheriff and a resident of Christian County and community of generous and caring citizens.  

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office encourages all citizens to immediately report anything suspicious or out of place to law enforcement. 

First United Methodist Church in Taylorville has begun construction of their new Ministry Center, which will be located adjacent to the church.

The area is being cleared ahead of the new addition.

Over 40 senior citizens received a scam prevention presentation in Taylorville from the Community Action Team on Monday morning. Kincaid Police Chief DJ Mathon gave a scam prevention presentation for the Christian County Senior Citizens Center in Taylorville. 

The presentation covered multiple scam tactics used by scammers to steal from the elderly and covered scams over phone, text, and email.  Chief Mathon says he wants the public to be very cautious in sharing bank account and personal information with unknown callers. 

Chief Mathon was presenting through the partnership fo the Community Action Team that is taking a stand against crimes targeting the elderly. 

You may have items waiting in a safe you didn’t even know you owned. 

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs describes how his office is reuniting possessions with their rightful owners. Frerichs is most focused on returning service medals. 

Frerichs has a couple stories of veterans or family members of veterans reuniting with a Purple Heart medal. 

Another situation occurred where the daughter of a Korean War veteran had no clue her father received a Purple Heart. 

The State Treasurer’s office even returns money from unclaimed life insurance policies. 

Find out if you have unclaimed property at icash.illinoistreasurer.gov. Frerichs appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Help the Christian County YMCA in its annual sustaining drive. 

Director Bruce Blanshan says if you donate $50 or more you will receive your first month of membership at the Y free. 

Blanshan says that this drive benefits countless families and youth who could not afford a membership. 

Youth especially benefit. Much of the funds from the sustaining drive go to youth programs and day care. 

Blanshan says the Y always wants to help the community.

The Y’s sustaining drive lasts until April 30th. Learn more at ccymca.org. Blanshan appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Lincoln Land Community College is working on assisting Lincoln College, which announced they would be closing down. LLCC has formed a response team that is made up of academic, financial aid, and student success coaches to help assist students that wish to transfer. 

Dr. Charlotte Warren, LLCC President, says that they want to help Lincoln College students in any way they can during this time so they can continue their academic programs. Lincoln College students who reside in the LLCC district may text 217-387-8585, call 217-786-2260 or email LC2LLCC@llcc.edu for assistance.  

LLCC will also have representatives at a college fair being held at Lincoln College on April 14th. 

People’s Bank and Trust held their annual board of directors meeting on March 30th, recognizing new and retiring directors and the organization’s performance over the past year.  Retiring director Jim Randolph was recognized for 25 years of service to the organization. Mike Trexler, Chairman of the Board said of Randolph that the board was happy to recognize Randolph for his distinguished service, guidance, devotion, and friendship.

President of People’s Bank and Trust John Gardner, congratulated Carol Furnish, Kathleen Anderson, Theresa Beal, Bonnie Miller, and David Kromphardt, and thanked them for their service to the organization and wished them the best in their retirement. 

According to Gardner, some positions were filled internally with promotions from within. Kacie Rankin and Jennifer Mathis were recognized for their recent promotions to Assistant Vice President, Consumer Banking.  Other recognitions included Jordan Ruppert as Vice President, Business Banking in Taylorville; Lea Stuckemeyer, Assistant Vice President Consumer Banking in Altamont; Trevor Taylor as Vice President, Business Banking in Charleston; and Josh Shallenberger who joined the company’s Board of Directors. 

Gardner says that they are still focused on long-term objectives despite the challenges in recent years.  97% of customers surveyed rated their overall customer service experience as good or excellent, and Gardner says they will continue to support local communities. The bank’s credit quality is very good and continues to improve.  He added that nearly a third of the bank’s loan portfolio is now guaranteed by the government.

The bank reported record financial performance including an increase in Net Income before tax from $7.1 million to $7.6 million.  Assets increased by $82.5 million to $570.5 million; depsoit volume increased by $78.6 million to $491.7 million, and loans increased by $21.7 million to $344.6 million. 

David Dorn Jr. and Christopher Swing were re-elected three-year terms as directors of the Bank and Holding Company.  Other directors are David Slater, Brad Davis, Michael E. Beyers, John Gardner, and Michael M. Trexler.  

Trexler was elected Chairman of the Board and Slater was elected Vice-Chair.  Other officers include President John Gardner, Secretary James Adcock, Asst. Secretary Terry Schafer, and Treasurer Craig Deere. 

Peoples Bank and Trust has ten offices in Charleston, Altamont, Tower Hill, Pana, Taylorville, Morrisonville, Springfield, Waverly, Palmyra, and White Hall. For more information, contact the bank at 888-728-1954 or visit www.bankpbt.com. 

A Taylorville man is in custody and being charged with predatory criminal sexual assault of a child. 34-year-old Jeffrey A. Burdzilauskas of Taylorville appeared in Christian County Court Tuesday where his bond was set at $150,000 with 10% to apply.

Burdzilauskas was taken into custody with the work of Taylorville Police Detective Chris Adams and Christian County States Attorney Wes Poggenpohl, who spoke to the victim and family involved. Burdzilauskas was arrested and charged officially with predatory criminal sexual assault of a child under 13. This is a class X felony that can receive a sentence of anywhere between 6 to 60 years in the Department of Corrections. A preliminary hearing is set for April 27th. 

Taylorville Food Pantry accepting around 3,100 pounds of food from local boy scout drives. 

Co-coordinator Amy Hagen says three different Taylorville Scouts groups compiled the ton-and-a-half of food. 

Hagen provides the details of each community group who helped.

She also says all 3,100 pounds is staying with the Taylorville Food Pantry and thanks the volunteers. 

It goes without saying, but here it is anyway – Hagen believes this food drive is a major success. She thanks Dinners Seasoned With Love for their help as well.

Learn more at taylorvillefoodpantry.com. Hagen appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club reviewed their ongoing efforts for children and youth in the Taylorville community, during their weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

In committee reports, Kiwanis Builders and Key Club liason Will Perkins reported the high school Kiwanis Key Club would be holding a 5K Color Run at Manners Park on Saturday, April 16th, as a fun way to promote the Key Club and all they do for the community.  Kiwanis Park co-chairs Larry Kemner and Duane Stock reported that a couple of work days will be scheduled to get the park into shape for the 2022 season, and the long-await Kiwanis Park Pavilion floor replacement project will be underway this spring.  Kiwanis Interclub chair Blain Cornwell announced that club members will again be raising money for local projects, by manning gates at the Illinois State Fair on 2 dates in August.

And, the Kiwanis Club finalized their plans for one of their biggest fund-raisers of the year, the Annual Pancake and Sausage Day being held Saturday, April 30th, from 6:30 to 11am at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  Tickets are 7-dollars each with all proceeds going to local Kiwanis projects for children and youth, including Kiwanis Park, Coats for Kids, YMCA and high school scholarships.  Tickets are available from any Kiwanis member.  Drive-thru to-go service will be available again this year.

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

The Bertrand Hopper Memorial Foundation this week donated ten-thousand dollars to the Christian County Economic Development Corporation, to assist in local economic development efforts.

Jim Adcock, Treasurer of the Foundation presented the check to CCEDC president Randal J. “Randy” Miller, and CCEDC Executive Director Dick Adams.

Adcock said the Foundation, which has been in place since 1956, has been very supportive of many community activities, and has had a long-time commitment to CCEDC as well.

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation is a private, nonprofit corporation whose focus is to assist local expansion and to promote Christian County and its cities for commercial and industrial development.  Information can be found on-line at christiancounty-e-d-c-dot-com.

Vendor forms are now available to participate in the 2022 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest taking place on the Square October First and 2nd.

The vendor forms available are for non-food vendors, and outlines what spaces and electricity availabilities there are for the weekend.

Vendor spot numbers are assigned only after all vendor forms and registration fees have been received, with the deadline of September 23rd.

Access the vendor forms and related information, by clicking the “Vendor Form” link at the event’s web site, chillifest.info, that’s chillifest with 2-L’s.  You can also call the Greater Taylorville Chamber office at 824-4919 to obtain one.

The long-time owner of the former Duke's Office Supply in Taylorville, has died.

Otis Haerr passed away late last week at his Taylorville home.

He was the owner and operator of Duke’s Office Supply on the Taylorville square, for over 40 years.

Haerr was 71 years old.

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. 

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White urging agencies to monitor the public to ensure they are focusing on the road while driving. 

Secretary of State spokesperson Henry Haupt says increased use of technology has led to increased distracted driving. 

Secretary White instructs the Secretary of State Police to conduct targeted patrols statewide cracking down on distracted Drivers. 

Illinois laws prohibit the hand-held use of cell phones and electronic devices in vehicles unless drivers are reporting an emergency or while the vehicle is parked. 

Texting and driving is considered one of the most deadly forms of distracted driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving accounts for over 3,100 motorist deaths in 2019 – roughly 15 percent of all crashes. 

The NHTSA also says sending or reading a text while driving essentially leaves the driver blind for the length of a football field. 

Spring means it’s time to dust off your New Year’s Resolutions and get in shape. 

Nutrition Educator with the St. Louis Dairy Council Kelsey Bentlage says protein in dairy is a great way aid in your health journey.

Bentlage says dairy can be a primary source of protein. 

Even though it sounds funny, she says chocolate milk can be a fantastic post-workout drink for you. 

Bentlage encourages you to check out the dairy council’s recipe of the month to help you gain that protein. 

Learn more at stldairycouncil.org. Bentlage appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

City of Taylorville off to a busy start to spring. 

Mayor Bruce Barry is celebrating the 7th and 8th grade girls’ volleyball teams on their trips to the state tournament. They’re the Youth of the Month. 

City Council is looking at replacing a front-end loader for the street department. 

Taylorville could also add some signage to the city in the near future. 

The city is also selling off some old air pack equipment from the fire department. 

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

The Taylorville Police Department will be hosting their second annual Cops, Coffee, and Cold Scoops event at the LP Coffee and Creamery.  The event is set to take place from 5 PM to 8 PM on April 8th and is a good chance to catch up with your law enforcement officers and to help a good cause.  There will be free coffee or ice cream, a petting zoo, and face painting.  Law Enforcement will also be accepting donations to help raise money for the Law Enforcement Torch Run that will be held for Special Olympics in Illinois. For more information visit the Taylorville Police Department Facebook Page.

More than $200,000 in grants available to nonprofit organizations.

Applications are open now and close at the end of April. 

Sparklight announces applications are open for its Charitable Giving Fund, which awards grants to 501 (c)(3) organizations focused on education and digital literacy, hunger relief and food insecurity, and community development. 

Sparklight awarded grants to more than 60 nonprofit organizations in 2021. They focused on organizations helping the homeless, child advocacy, senior assistance, and supplying food to those in need. 

The Charitable Giving Fund is an extension of Sparklight’s existing corporate social responsibility efforts, including Chromebooks for Kids, the Emma Bowen Foundation, the Special Olympics, Arbor Day, and many more. 

Find the application and learn more at sparklight.com/charitablegiving. 

An open house is set for this afternoon at the Tenaska Heartland Greenway C-O-2 storage project office at 913 West Spresser in Taylorville, from 5 til 7.    

Project officials will share with those in attendance, details on the proposed C-O-2 Storage Space in Christian County, and possible financial benefits for local landowners affected by the project.  

After tonight's open house, they"ll hold these informational events the first Tuesday of each month.  

The City of Taylorville had a groundbreaking ceremony Monday morning at 10:30 for the road project on East Main Cross.  The project is expected to take 5 months. Mayor Bruce Barry appeared on the WTIM Morning Show to talk about the groundbreaking ceremony. He thanked Governor JB Pritzker noting that most of the grants were up in the Chicago area.

Mayor Barry is also working on a federal grant for West Main Cross.

Mayor Barry thanked a long list of people who made the road construction possible.

Mayor Bruce Barry appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

While the first Tuesday of every month is a great time to check tornado sirens, if you're in Taylorville you will hear a different sound along with the normal tornado sirens.  Christian County Emergency Management Agency DIrector Jeff Stoner informed Regional Radio News that after the normal tornado sirens go off for 3 minutes at 10 AM Tuesday morning, you will also hear the Homeland Security Siren. This siren is checked once per year and with April being severe weather preparedness month, it's a good time to check that one as well.

This is also a good time to go over your escape routes, and emergency plans with your family to make sure that everyone knows where to go when there is an emergency or if a situation may arise. Make sure you have an emergency kit in your safe area and that kids know what to do and where to go if there is a tornado, fire, or other emergencies. 

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening to discuss business, review ordinance, and go over reports. The board recognized the 7th and 8th grade Volleyball teams and their recent success. After approval of minutes, the board reviewed and approved an ordinance for the special events permit for Red Bland Little League Parade on April 23rd.

The board also announced that a public hearing will take place on May 16th before the City Council meeting on the special use permit for cannabis dispensing organization. The board also approved “A Cut Above Lawn Care” for mowing for 2022 and 2023 for $11,790.  The board also approved the Deputy Treasurer Office Space 5-3. 

The board heard from City Attorney Rocci Romano on the latest concerning the Jamal Shehadah lawsuits against the city. 

Mayor Bruce Barry gave his mayoral update and raved about how much Taylorville is doing this summer.

The Spring Clean-Up Day was approved for April 23rd from 7-3 PM. All bids were accepted for the street and sewer committee. The next board meeting is set for April 18th.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest Committee held their second meeting of 2022 on Monday night in the Chamber office, making plans for this year’s edition of the event taking place on the Taylorville square October First and 2nd.

This year’s event will tentatively feature 2 days of International Chilli Society judging, with first place winners both days going to the World Championships.  

Event co-chair Mark Wolfe told Regional Radio News after Monday night's meeting that committee members may have multiple conversations going at the same time, but it's all about making the event the best they can for 2022.

The Chamber’s famous Chillifest chilli will again be sold, this year both served by the bowl as well as in drive-thru service, which has been a hit the last 2 years.

It's the third year for Mark and April Wolfe to co-chair the Chillifest committee, after being entertainment chairs for the event several years before that, and leading the Kincaid Labor Day Picnic for many years before that. 

Crowd favorites like the many pageants, Kidzone, and arts and crafts, will be back again this year, as well as entertainment on both the south main stage and the north stage.

The popular bags tournament is also tentatively set to come back for the 2022 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.

Vendor forms and other information can be obtained on the event’s web site, chillifest.info, that’s chillifest with 2-L’s, or by calling the Greater Taylorville Chamber office at 824-4919.

Family memorial services are set for Friday, for a long-time Taylorville businessperson.

"Sonny" Bertucci  passed away March 31st at Taylorville Care Center.

Bertucci was in the grocery industry in Taylorville for decades, starting at the age of 14 at the former Red & White grocery store on the square. Following his time in the service, he continued his work as a butcher at Frank’s Food Fair, then for many decades as the manager of Frank’s Food Fair and IGA, County Market, and finally at Kroger in Taylorville.

Bertucci's daily visits with former WTIM Swap Shop host Matt McLemore while he was manager at the various grocery stores that sponsored the show, were legendary, with the 2 talking more about Sonny's ties he wore that week, than the weekly grocery specials.

Bertucci was also involved in many local civic organizations, including the United Way, Chamber of Commerce, and helped organize the city’s Bicentennial Celebration. 

Bertucci was 94.

A Lake Shelbyville update from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

Brock Key is a park range for the corps. 

Plenty of new fish habitat in part from an effort of the corps. 

Key describes some of the man-made structures freshly tossed in the lake. 

Key reminds you to grab your life jacket when you go fishing. 

Learn more about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Shelbyville when you visit their Facebook. Key appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville.

Shelbyville Manor assisted living makes life easier in many aspects. 

Brandy Senders is the marketing director with Shelbyville Manor.

Senders says Shelbyville Manor has staff on hand to visit and converse with residents. 

Shelbyville Manor recently hired someone to help preserve resident memory. 

Senders invites you to check out the Hawthorne Inn.

Learn more at shelbyvillemanor.com. Senders appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville.

The Taylorville City Council will meet on Monday evening at 7 PM at the Municipal Building. The board will recognize the 7th and 8th grade Taylorville Volleyball team as Youth of the month. After approval of minutes, the board will discuss and approve some ordinances including purchasing a front end loader, adding some signage including a no parking sign on the south side of Pleasant Street and a stop sign on Pauline and Powers, and authorizing the sale of personal property owned by the City. 

There will be a discussion concerning the Deputy Treasurer Office Space, a motion will be discussed approving the Red Bland Little League Parade on April 23rd, and a public hearing and planning commission for a new chapter concerning cannabis in Taylorville. 

Under committee reports, the board will discuss a Spring Clean-up Day for April 23rd, a motion to approve a bid from CCI for concrete for curbs and guttering and for concrete for sidewalks. 

The board will also hear from the City Attorney and from Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for a wrapup after the meeting concludes. 

There is still a lot of information that is coming out from a chase that ended outside of Pana Saturday afternoon. A suspect wanted in a double homicide in Collinsville has been pronounced dead after he pulled out a gun and pointed it at an Illinois State Trooper. Major Jeff Connor, Chief Deputy Sheriff of the Madison County Sheriff's Office held a press conference Sunday evening with the update. Collinsville Police located two deceased females at a house in Collinsville, Illinois. 31-year-old Jamie Joyner and 34-year-old Jessica Joyner who was visiting from California were both found dead outside of Jamie's house. 

According to authorities, there had been a separation and she had her sister there to help her move out of the house. It is unknown what led to the shooting. Cobb also killed the family dog as well. The suspect, 32-year-old Adam Cobb, fled the scene and headed north eventually getting stopped by Illinois State Police just outside of Pana.  The suspect pulled a gun on the police, and ISP fired at the suspect.  He passed away at 4:40 AM at an area hospital. The incident is still under investigation. 

Police are investigating an officer involved shooting that took place on Saturday afternoon. The incident happened after the pursuit of a homicide suspect wanted in connection to the murder of two women in the Collinsville area. 

On Saturday, April 2nd, 2022 at approximately 11:14 AM, ISP Collinsville Communications Center learned that the Madison County Sheriff's Office had information on a suspect wanted for a double homicide in the Collinsville area. Law enforcement loccated the vehicle shortly after 1PM Saturday afternoon northbound on IL Route 127 near Hillsboro. Officers attempted a traffic stop and the vehicle left.  The chase was later joined by ISP Troopers and crossed IL Route 16 then north onto US Route 51.

The vehicle was eventually stopped on US Route 51 just north of Pana.  At 1:53 PM, the driver of the suspect exited the vehicle and pointed a firearm in the direction of an ISP Trooper, who discharged their weapon in the direction of the suspect.  The suspect was taken to a regional hospital for the treatment of life threatening injuries.  No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident and the cause and nature of the suspects injuries are still under investigation. The ISP Trooper is a 26-year veteran of the Illinois State Police.  

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the double homicide in the Collinsville area and the ISP Internal Investigation is investigating the shooting. This investigation is open and ongoing, and all evidence and facts will be submitted for review upon completion of the investigation to the Christian County State’s Attorney's Office.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more on this story as it develops. We have not learned what the suspect's name is as of yet. 

A missing motorist who's vehicle was swept away by water has been found.  54 year old Anthony Nees of Cowden was located and recovered in a drainage creek southwest of Shelbyville Saturday morning.  According to the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, Nees drove into water over the roadway on March 31st around 7:30 AM.  According to an eyewitness the car Nees was driving was pushed off the roadway by the current, and became inoperable. 

Nees left his vehicle in an attempt to walk out and get away, but was swept away by the water into a flooded field and disappeared. The Shelby County Sheriff's Office is once again encouraging all motorists to turn around and don't drown.  You never know how deep water is or how fast it's moving. 

As spring rains continue, they ask that you don't drive into the water on the roadway and find an alternate route.  The Shelby County Dive Team took the lead on the Search and Rescue/Recovery effort.  Shelby County Sheriff's Office thanked the area fire departments, search and rescue teams, drone operators, and ISP Air Operations for their assistance.

The Tenaska Heartland Greenway C-O-2 storage project has scheduled an open house at their office at 913 West Spresser in Taylorville, this Tuesday afternoon from 5 til 7.    

Officials will share with attendees, details on the proposed Heartland Greenway Storage Space in Christian County, and the potential financial benefits to landowners affected by the project.

Tenaska Heartland Greenway plans on holding these monthly open houses at their Taylorville office, on the first Tuesday of each month.

taylorvilledailynews.com, a division of the Miller Media Group, has unveiled an exclusive “Event Delay” software program for schools, businesses, and governmental agencies to post closings and cancellations.

The new software allows those posting to set up their own account and then post via any Internet browser 24/7, saving them time from previously having to call station officials or send e-mails, then wait on the information to be posted on-line.

The 5 Taylorville-based radio stations of the Miller Media Group will then read those closings and cancellations posted via its exclusive “Event Delay” software, from that page on taylorvilledailynews.com, bringing listeners the latest information submitted by school, business and government officials.

The software is the first of its kind to be used in the Miller Media Group coverage area, which extends from I-72 to I-70 and I-55 to I-57.

Company president Randal J. Miller said the acquisition of the “Event Delay” software brings the Miller Media Group into the 21st Century using the latest technology to benefit both those who provide taylorvilledailynews.com readers with information, but an easier way for them to also get that information on-the-air.

Lincoln Land Community College amid its Summer Term enrollment. 

Enrollment Coordinator Tisha Miller says there are benefits to taking summer courses. 

If summer courses aren’t for you, then fall registration opens later this month. 

LLCC is ready to help you achieve your goals – starting with the application process. 

Miller encourages everyone to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, and she offers some words of encouragement for those filling out for the first time. 

Learn more at llcc.edu. Miller appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.