The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the Executive Director at Kemmerer Village in Assumption, during the weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

Shales Nagle told the club that the location first served the area as an orphanage, and now is a trement center to help children.   Nagle added that the challenges in staffing due to COVID dropped their enrollment numbers but she’s confident Kemmerer will get staffing and enrollment to increase.

Nagle told club members that Kemmerer serves children in a congregate care setting, plus also services over 170 children in foster homes.  She added she’s been serving at Kemmerer some 29 years, with over a year as its Executive Director.

Her remarks centered around the mental health toll that the pandemic took on children and the community at large.  

Nagle was introduced by Kiwanis Spiritual Aims Committee Chair Dick Wamsley.

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.     

WTIM Radio in Taylorville on Tuesday wrote over $6,000 worth of checks to 3 local non-profit organizations, as all ticket sales from the May 6th Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce/WTIM 70th Anniversary Banquet was provided them.

WTIM paid for the entire night, including the venue, food, desert, entertainment, and decorations, so that all ticket sales could then be given to these 3 non-profits.  WTIM president Randal J. Miller made the check presentations.

A check for $3,080 was given to the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, enabling them to continue being the Gateway to the community.  Chamber Executive Director Linda Allen accepted the check on behalf of the organization.

A check for $1,520 was given to the Taylorville Public Schools Foundation to continue providing educational opportunities for teachers and students in the community.  On hand for the check presentation was Public Schools Foundation board member Marsha Blackman, board president Jarred Rahar, and board member Amy Hagen.  Rahar said the monies will go to all sorts of school programs.

Blackman has served on the Public Schools Foundation board for several years and finds it rewarding.

A check for $1,520 was given to the Taylorville Food Pantry, to be used to buy food for needy families at a discount thru the Central Illinois Food Bank.  Accepting the check were co-Executive Directors Pam Moses and Amy Hagen.  Moses said the monies will be used to buy food at a discount from the Central Illinois Food Bank.

Hagen told those who gathered for the check presentation a lot families and senior citizens, who live on fixed incomes, are finding it difficult to make ends meet.

WTIM, part of the Miller Media Group, thanks the 140 members of the Taylorville community that purchased tickets for this important event for both the Chamber and WTIM, which premiered its 70th Anniversary video at the end of the evening.  It's now linked on the menu bar and in this story here.

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital in Shelbyville celebrated Nurses Week with a host of awards. 

Karla Dixon is the Clinical Director of the hospital. 

Dixon says that the hospital had a fantastic week when they celebrated Nurses Week and Hospital Week in the same week. She congratulates Whitney Thompson for winning Rookie of the Year.

Terry Waylon won the Partner in Nursing award. 

Don’t forget about the Excellence in Nursing award winner, Jackie Hagen. 

Learn more at hshsgoodshepherd.org. Dixon appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville.

There’s a block party in Shelbyville June 11th. 

Organizer and owner of Simply Yours in Shelbyville Schryll Bernson provides the details.

This is a family event for everyone to enjoy. 

There will be all sorts of Shelbyville-area vendors at the block party. 

Of course, you can’t miss the live entertainment. This includes Taylorville High School Class of 2022 graduate Izzy Miller. 

Learn more about Simply Yours at https://www.loc8nearme..com/illinois/shelbyville/simply-yours-boutique/3021024/.

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

Taylorville Memorial Hospital has named its Colleague of the Month for the month of April. Veronica “Ronnie” Cushing, a patient access team leader in the admitting and registration department at TMH was named the Colleague of the Month, and hospital officials praised his compassion and care for patients. 
 
Cushing, of Pana, has worked at TMH for 17 years. Cushing’s nominator said that her attention to detail, her efficient and respectful manner with patients and her always cheery demeanor make her “one of Taylorville Memorial Hospital’s gems.”
 
Outside of work, Cushing spends time gardening and landscaping. She also enjoys visiting the beach and having coffee dates with her four children and nine grandchildren. 

Area law enforcement personnel gathered together Thursday for the annual  “2022 Officer of the Year” award, given by the Taylorville Optimist Club.  The award is given to a Christian County law enforcement officer.

Officers nominated this year include

From the Christian County Sheriff’s Office--
Sergeant Robert Goebel 
Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp 

From the Taylorville Police Department--
Detective Chris Adams 

From the Pana Police Department--
Officer Richard Rahar 
Officer Jason Cole 
Officer Caleb Hubartt 

And from the Kincaid Police Department--
Chief DJ Mathon 
Officer Seath Hubbs 

It was announced that the 2022 Finalists were Officer Hubbs, Officer Rahar and Sergeant Goebel. Officer Rahar was given the award for being the 2022 Officer of the Year by the Optimist Club.

Morton Buildings is hiring. The construction company that is based in Morton, Illinois has a nationwide network of over 100 construction centers, specializing in post-frame construction of commercial, agricultural, equestrian, and residential structures.  The location in Litchfield is hiring and Chad Grissom, Area Construction Supervisor, says that while he originally got into construction for a steady paycheck, he fell in love with the job.

Grissom says, if you stick it out you will be rewarded.

Grissom says they do a lot of different types of construction, but mostly focus on pole barns. 

Grissom says he’s proud of what Morton Buildings is, and that is a well-known brand throughout the midwest.

To apply, you can apply online at mortonbuildings.com/careers.  You can also check them out at www.mortonbuildings.com. 
 

Illinois Conservation Police will continue to patrol the water for Memorial Day Weekend.  Whether it will be helping with a mechanical failure or ensuring no one is driving their boat recklessly, Lieutenant Curt Lewis says law enforcement will be on Illinois Waterways to help out. 

Lieutenant Lewis continued by stressing that they will be looking for drunk drivers and others that may not be following the law.

The State Department of Natural Resources says that most boating accidents involve operators between 20 and 40 years old and most often the person that is driving is driving carelessly or recklessly when they hit another boat. 

When you slap that meat on the barbecue, make sure you let it heat up to an appropriate temperature before eating. 

That’s the message from Illinois Department of Public Health as they remind the public to follow food safety tips for cookouts and picnics. 

The department says you should keep foods 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below in an insulated cooler and keep those coolers in the shade out of direct sun. 

To prevent cross contamination, food should be kept separate. This is especially true when it comes to raw meet and poultry, which should never be stored with fruits, vegetables, cheeses, salads or cooked foods. 

When grilling, make sure your beef, pork, lamb, veal and fish reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit. While hamburgers and other ground beef should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit. All poultry needs to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Symptoms of food poisoning include severe cramps, fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and bloody diarrhea. If symptoms are severe or last longer than two days, contact your doctor or health care provider. 

More information about food borne illnesses and symptoms can be found on the CDC Food Safety website. 

Warmer weather means more rabid animals out and about. 

Illinois Department of Public Health warns the public to be aware of rabid animals, especially bats, as they become more active. 

IDPH received four reports of rabid bats in the state since the middle of May in Champaign, Jackson, Macon and Will counties. 

The department stresses a bite from a rabid animal can be fatal if not treated and that the public should take precautions to keep bats out of the home. 

It’s also important to make sure your pets or any livestock are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations. 

Rabies is transmitted when an infected animal bites a person and it impacts the nervous system. 

IDPH warns that if you find yourself in close proximity to a bat and you are unsure if you were exposed, do not kill or release the bat before calling your doctor or local health department. They may ask for testing of the bat for rabies. 

You can prevent the spread of rabies by not touching, feeding or attracting wild animals to your home with open cans of garbage or litter, teach children to not handle unfamiliar animals, and never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. 

If you have to capture the bat, approach it slowly while wearing gloves and place a box or coffee can over it. Then, slide a piece of cardboard under the container to trap the bat inside and tape the cardboard to the container. You should also punch small holes in the cardboard allowing the bat to breath, then take it to your local health department or to your doctor. 

Learn more when you visit the IDPH website. 

Lincoln Land Community College is preparing folks who want to work in a trade with its Workforce Institute. 

Nancy Sweet is the Dean of the Workforce Institute. She says it’s a great opportunity for graduating high-schoolers to obtain a high paying job fast. 

She says to act fast because many programs are already full for the Fall. 

Sweet says the Workforce Institute is fairly new even though LLCC has been dedicated to trades programs for years. 

She also believes more people are entering trades because the pandemic has forced people to evaluate what they want to do with their lives.

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

Fair season means 4H is in full swing. Members who picked their project out by the April 15th deadline will show at the Christian County Fair and beyond. 

Alexis McDowell is the 4H Program Coordinator for Christian County. She says there are a bunch of programs to assist members with future projects. 

Don’t forget about the wreath program June 8th  and the painting program June 14th.

There’s also a crazy Chemistry Camp at the end of June. 

You can still sign up to be part of 4H. You just won’t be able to present at the fair, but McDowell says there are many reasons to sign up anyways. 

Learn more at 4h.extension.illinois.edu. McDowell appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Nokomis School District celebrating the end of the school year with graduation today. 

Superintendent Dr. Scott Doer reflects on what he calls, a very tough year. 

Dr. Doer has been superintendent for 13 years, which means he saw these graduating seniors grow up from Kindergartners. 

For the class of 2022, Dr. Doer believes the possibilities are endless.

Dr. Doer says this class is well prepared for the next phase of life with scholarships and career opportunities abound. 

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

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start to summer. 

Macon County Conservation District’s Rock Springs Conservation Center is gearing up for a fun season with summer camps, concerts and open houses. Alysia Callison is the director of program services. She says there are four different camps available this summer. 

There are six different concerts at the Rock Springs Conservation Center this summer.

Callison says she’s looking forward to various open houses including tours of the Oglesby Mansion. 

The Nature Center also has various summer programs to help you experience nature. 

Learn more at maconcountyconservation.org. Callison appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A Niles man was sentenced for a shooting incident that took place in Pana in March of 2021. 22-year-old Jacob R. Mariacher was sentenced to 20 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections by Judge Brad Paisley on Thursday.  Mariacher pleaded guilty to the Class X offense of aggravated battery with a firearm on April 8th and was sentenced today.  The incident occurred near 200 North Road and 2350 East Road in Pana.  Mariacher was accused of shooting a minor in the face. 

State’s Attorney Wes Poggenpohl thanked the victim and the victim’s family for coming to the sentencing hearing today and telling the judge what happened and how the case had affected them.  During the shooting, Poggenpohl says the bullet struck the victim just about the corner of the mouth before traveling along the jaw and becoming lodged.

Aggravated Battery with a Firearm is a Class X Felony that carries a sentencing range of 6 to 30 years and is non-probationable.  The sentence is served at 85% which will result in slightly over 15 ½ years of further incarceration. 

Safe Passage is a program that helps those battling with the disease known as addiction. Safe Passage Coordinator Denise Evans says that since the program started on July 1st, 2019, they have helped around 500 people with their addiction. She says that Safe Passage is available to anyone that asks for help. 

Douglas Cowell went through the Safe Passage program to help with his addiction and shared his story.

Fellow Safe Passage client Cody Long credits Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler with getting him into Safe Passage and says that the program likely saved his life.

Ryan Buerk also went through the program and said that the program works because they are not worried about how any drugs were obtained, they simply want to help you get clean.

Brianne Hughes used Safe Passage to help with her addiction and has this to say to anyone that is on the fence about the program. 

Denise Evans says how you can get in touch with Safe Passage.

Chief Wheeler and everyone involved with Safe Passage thank the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority for approving their grant funding for another year for Fiscal Year 2023. 
 

Eight graduating seniors were awarded $1,000 checks from Taylorville Community Credit Union’s eight annual “Stop. Shop. Vote” scholarship campaign.  Two winners from Taylorville High School are Rebekah Krah and Emma Pennock.  Krah plans to attend Bradley University to major in physical therapy.  Pennock will major in pre-occupational therapy at Southeast Missouri State. 

TCCU President Will Perkins congratulated the Scholarship winners, saying that TCCU is proud to offer the program to area students and to assist them in the pursuit of their educational and professional goals.  

31 businesses in Taylorville participated in the “Stop. Shop. Vote!” Campaign which gave residents plenty of choices to do their shopping.  Perkins says 2,060 ballots were completed resulting in 12,793 votes cast.  Shoppers could cast one vote for every $10 they spent in participating businesses. 

Any graduating senior was eligible as long as they planned to continue their education, whether it was a trade school, 2 year community college, or 4 year university. Taylorville businesses participating included A Classic Bouquet, Amenities on Main, Anderson Jewelers, Angelo’s Audrey’s Boutique and Luxuries, Battery SPecialists, Country Kitchen, Florinda’s Pizza, Glik’s Hair Studio, Happy Baked Goods, JMA Pawn Jewelry & Loan, and many many others. 

Registration for the 2022-2023 Scholarship Program will begin in August, following resumption of classes at school.  Students will be able to register through Friday, October 14th.  To register, simply provide TCCu with your name and photo and a signed permission slip. 

TCCU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative, founded in 1956 for those who live or work in Christian, Shelby, or Montgomery Counties as well as their families.  For more information visit www.tccu.org or visit the local TCCU offices in Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, and Pana,. 

When a person has a stroke it is important that you know what to do and that you act fast.  Doctors often say “time is brain” when it comes to a stroke as two million brain cells die for every minute the brain is without oxygen. This can often lead to brain damage, disability, or death. 

Treatment for stroke is available in the ambulance, so it’s critical for people to dial 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect that someone is having a stroke. According to the CDC, someone in the US has a stroke every 40 seconds and someone dies of stroke every four minutes. 

HSHS Good Shepherd HOspital encourages everyone to know the signs of a stroke by remembering the acronym BE FAST. B for balance difficulty, E for eye changes, F for face drooping, A for arm weakness, S for speech difficulty, and T for terrible headache.  Symptoms of a stroke are usually sudden loss of balance or coordination, vision changes, facial drooping, sudden weakness, sudden onset of trouble speaking, and sudden onset of severe headache.  

The CDC also says that 80% of strokes are preventable by making lifestyle changes including no smoking, being physically active, controlling cholesterol, controlling blood pressure, maintaining a healthy body weight, and reducing blood sugar. 

If you think someone is having a stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.  For more information about signs, symptoms, and how to respond visit the American Stroke Association.  Find out more also at hshsgoodshepherd.org. 
 

Two seniors that attend school at Taylorville High School were awarded a scholarship by the Taylorville Memorial Foundation.  Luke Markwell and Tucker Tippett were awarded the Dr. George Ferry Memorial Scholarship during an awards ceremony at the high school. The awards were $2,500. This will help assist them in pursuing careers in healthcare. 

Markwell will be attending school at Illinois State University, where is pursuing a nursing degree and Tippitt will be attending Southern Illinois University, where he will be seeking a bachelor of science in exercise science.  Markwell has been described as a meticulous student who works at Walgreens part time.  Tippitt plans to pursue a doctorate degree in physical therapy, inspired by his own journey overcoming physical limitations.  Markwell played on the THS basketball team, and Tippitt played for the THS baseball team.  

The late Dr. George Ferry contributed a lifetime of service, dedication, and commitment to his family, his practice, community, and Taylorville Memorial Hospital. Each year, two scholarships are given to students pursuing careers in healthcare. 

Markwell is the son of Stephen and Beth Markwell of Taylorville and Tippitt is the son of Brad and Carla Tippitt of Taylorville. For more information on the Taylorville Memorial Foundation, please call 217-707-5271 or visit memorial.health/tmf. 
 

The Miller Media Group in Taylorville and Clinton have established an e-mail address for its listeners and readers to share comments directly to the Uvalde, Texas families affected by the May 24th massacre.

Company president Randal J. Miller says the e-mail address was based on an idea from a fellow broadcast group owner in Texas, as a way for Central Illinois listeners and readers to express their condolences to the families, the school staff and superintendent, of the schools in Uvalde that have been affected by this tragedy.

Send an e-mail to this e-mail address:  texaskids@randyradio.com.  All e-mail's the Miller Media Group receives will be printed, put in a binder, and sent to the Uvalde, Texas, School Superintendent, so he, his teachers and students, know that Central Illinois is grieving with them.  

Please send your e-mail by 5pm June 30th so that the Miller Media Group can get the e-mail's printed, bound, and shipped to the Uvalde, Texas, School Superintendent, so Central Illinois residents can express their condolences and expressions of support, to those affected.

Social Security Administration is there for all taxpayers of any income status. 

Jack Meyers says there’s a new fact sheet for those with limited earnings. 

The new fact sheet overviews programs like Supplemental Security income and others. 

Meyers says these programs are mostly needs-based. 

Ssa.gov has a screening tool for you to check out to see if you qualify for any needs-based program. 

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

Kincaid-South Fork School District celebrating graduation this Friday. 

The Class of 2022 is special to Superintendent Chris Clark. 

Valedictorian Shaye Moomey is part of the National Honor Society and she served as class president. She also received a full-ride scholarship to Milikin University in Decatur. 

Senior Riley Burney served as vice president for her class. She received a full-ride scholarship to play softball at Lakeland College. 

Senior Anthony Foli discovered computer gaming at a young age and wants to translate that into his future career. He wants to explore computer science and engineering at University of Illinois.

Foli, Burney, Moomey and Clark appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

As boating season arrives, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources conservation police are reminding people to wear life jackets when they are on the water and to operate boats sober. This week marks National Safe Boating Week and the theme for this week is “Wear it!”

Illinois Conservation Police Lieutenant Curt Lewis is the state’s boatin law administrator, and encourages everyone to “Wear it” as in wearing a life jacket for those who are on anything on the water, whether it is a motorboat, kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or everything in between. 

In 2021 there were 93 reportable boating accidents on Illinois water. These accidents resulted in 28 injuries and 16 fatalities. In 2020, there were 81 boating accidents with 21 fatalities and 36 injuries.  In 2019 there were 72 accidents with 14 fatalities and 42 injuries. 

Boating accident reports indicate that most accidents occur between noon and 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays between June and August.  Conditions are usually clear with good visibility, light winds, and calm water.  The average of those who do get into accidents are operators between 20 and 40 years of age who have more than 100 hours of boating experience, but have little or no classroom boating safety instruction. 

Lewis says safety is paramount and you should know where your switches, lifejackets, and safety measures are on the boat.

Officers are also concerned about boating operators who are not sober. Lieutenant Lewis says operating a boat under the influence is riskier than operating a motor vehicle. There are no lane markers, seatbelts, and little protection for boaters who are in accidents. In 2021 Illinois

Conservation Police officers arrested 65 boaters for operating under the influence, a 36% decrease from 2020. Four of the 16 boating related fatalities in Illinois in 2021 involved alcohol or drug impairment.  The other 12 who passed away were not wearing life jackets or vests. Lewis says that being tired and drinking alcohol can be a deadly combination.

Illinois law requires every person aboard have access to a life jacket or vest. Effective June 1st, 2022 no person may operate a watercraft unless everyone under the age of 13 is wearing a life jacket or vest and everyone must wear them on a personal watercraft or jet ski. 

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources offers free boating safety courses that provide a review of boating laws and regulations as well as instruction on the safe and attentive operation of watercraft.  The IDNR encourages everyone to take a safety class. If you are born on or after January 1st, 1998, you must pass a course and have a valid Boating Safety Certificate in order to operate a motorboat.  

For more information visit www.safeboatingcampaign.com.  

With the building of infrastructure, the thought of what goes on in the environment becomes an ever-changing topic that needs to be addressed. Migration routes for birds, nesting areas for animals, and protected grasslands, trees, and plant life need to be considered when building. Jen Porcelli is a career environmental scientist for Ameren and is helping with the Avian Protection Program, a program that helps Monarch Butterflies and honeybees, two vital lifeforms that provide resources. 

Porcelli says the Avian Protection Program is helping by planting flowers that Monarchs and honeybees rely on.

The pollinator program has been around for 5-6 years.  Ameren continues to partner with agencies to make this process easier.

Porcelli says there are many benefits to introducing these pollinators.

All in all, it helps Ameren to provide better services for their customers and helps keep wildlife safe. 

Find out more about pollinators, by visiting https://www.ameren.com/company/environment-and-sustainability/biodiversity. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club honored a “Community Outstanding Spiritual Leader” during the club’s annual prayer luncheon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

Kiwanis member and retired minister Dick Wamsley again chaired and was emcee for the annual event, which according to Kiwanis International, is held annually to give primacy to the human and spiritual.

Following introduction of the head table and invited guests, Kiwanis Illinois-Eastern Iowa District Governor Angela Burford spoke about the ties Kiwanis has in faith and the military in her own life after losing a brother in the military last year.  

The annual “Community Outstanding Spiritual Leader” award was then given to Dolly Brown, long time member and secretary at Calvary Baptist Church. She was nominated by her Pastor Chad Zueck.  Her award was presented by Kiwanis member and Spiritual Aims Committee member Adam Jeffrey.  Brown told Kiwanis members and guests it was humbling to receive the award.

Guest speaker for the Kiwanis prayer luncheon was Michael Hinnen, Associate Minister at Berlin Christian Church in New Berlin, who spoke about 3 people that mentored him about prayer, adding that, quoting Hinnen, “prayer is communion.”

Pastor Curtis Franks, president of the Taylorville Ministerial Association, closed this year’s Kiwanis prayer luncheon in prayer.  Here's a portion of that prayer.

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.  

Enjoy a day of golf while supporting local youth wrestlers at the Tornado Wrestling Foundation’s 1st Annual Tom Frevert Golf Outing, 8 a.m. Saturday June 18th. 

Youth wrestling coach Will Peabody coaches Kindergartners all the way through fourth grade. He says the event is about honoring the late Tom Frevert while supporting a great cause. 

Foundation president Jane Griffith says a group of concerned parents formed the foundation when rumors emerged the school district would cut the program around 15 years ago. 

Peabody says that the foundation is still looking for sponsors for its golf outing. As a bonus for sponsors, they will have their company name displayed during wrestling meets in the upcoming season.

All proceeds of the event go directly towards the Tornado Wrestling Foundation, which allows them to assist youth wrestlers with their registration fees and gear expenses. 

Sign up for the golf outing when you contact Peabody at 217-825-5923. Peabody and Griffith appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

The month of May marks Older Americans Month and the theme for this year is “Age My Way.”  The goal is to promote services that are available to help senior citizens stay in their homes.  Illinois Department on Aging Director Paula Basta says that there is a State Senior Helpline to help.

Basta says help and assistance is available for those who need it at illinois.gov/aging. . 

The Senior Citizens of Christian County will also be celebrating Older Americans Month by celebrating Older Americans day on May 25th. The event will take place at 11:30 at 701 W. Adams Street in Taylorville. Alana Gray, Site Supervisor for Meals on Wheels, says that there will be lunch and plenty of other activities.

Gray says this is a great way to remember all that they’ve done for the community and all they continue to do.

For more information contact the Christian County Senior Citizens at 217-824-4263.

Memorial Day weekend is seen as the unofficial kick off to summer, and it is usually celebrated with cookouts, swimming, and evening fires. The Illinois Fire Safety Alliance is reminding everyone to celebrate safely by following basic safety tips and precautions. 

The Illinois Fire Safety Alliance or (IFSA) offers some tips to follow for outdoor burn prevention. Supervise children and pets while the campfire/fire pit is burning.  Make a 3-foot kids free zone around the campfire. You should always have a hose, bucket of water, or shovel with dirt or sand nearby to put the fire out. Apply water to all coals or remaining flames, to make sure that there is no heat, glow, or flame remaining, and never leave a fire unattended, even for a short period of time.

If you are grilling, closely monitor food cooking on the grill. Turn the grill off promptly when done cooking, and let it cool before putting it back in it’s location. Grills should be at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn, including deck railings, overhanging branches, and homes.  If you use starter fluid to ignite coals, only use charcoal starter fluid.  

With campfire safety, check for any restrictions in your neighborhood before starting an open-air fire, recreational fire, or outdoor cooking fire. Fires such as bonfires or yard waste fires should be at least 50 feet from anything that can burn.  Campfires should be at least 25 feet away from any structure that can burn and only use fire pits outdoors and at least 10 feet away from anything that can burn.

To learn more about outdoor fire safety, visit www.IFSA.org. 

Taylorville Park District board met for their monthly meeting Monday. 

Board members approved April’s minutes, the treasurer’s report, bills, and the employee reports. 

Recreational Director Bailey Hancock gave an overview the Manners Park pool, which could could re-open as early as this weekend. 

Hancock says the pool committee is in the feasibility study phase of a new pool, which could be quite expensive. There is a pool committee meeting this Thursday at the Manners Park office. 

If you are hoping for a pool party this summer – act fast. Reservation availability is already scarce.

Hancock says the pool is turning 60 years old this year. While a bit old for a pool, she wants to use this opportunity to fund-raise for a new pool.

Mark your calendar for the Taylorville Pool’s 60th Anniversary celebration, Sunday, July 24th from noon to 5 p.m.

The next park board meeting is set for Monday, June 27th. 

A Taylorville man has been sentenced in connection to aggravated battery to a police officer.  33-year-old Michael W. Emery was sentenced to seven years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on Monday following an incident on April 19th, where he bit two Taylorville Officers who were arresting him. 

According to Christian County State’s Attorney Wes Poggenpohl, Emery pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated battery to a police officer in the biting incident.  Poggenpohl commended the officers involved in this incident and thanked them for their sacrifices for the safety of the public.  

Aggravated battery to a police officer is a Class 2 Felony and carries a sentencing range of 3-7 years in IDOC. The offense is also probation eligible.  Due to Mr. Emery’s prior record, he was extended term eligible on these offenses making the sentencing range from 3-14 years in IDOC. 

Carlinville Police are investigating a fatal incident that occurred on Saturday morning.  On May 21st, at 7:11 AM, Carlinville Police responded to a report of a male lying in a puddle in the road in the 1100 block of Sumner Street.  Upon arrival, officers began life-saving measures. Carlinville Fire Protection District and Gillespie Benld Area Ambulance Services also tried to help but were unable to resuscitate him. Police identified him as 40-year-old Monteaz Walton. 

The Macoupin County Coroner was called in and pronounced him deceased. An autopsy was performed Saturday afternoon which determined that Mr. Walton had been struck by a vehicle and succumbed to his injuries.  The investigation is ongoing with the assistance of the coroner’s office, and the Illinois State Police CSI. 

If you have any information, you are encouraged to call the Carlinville Police Department at 217-854-3221 or email info@carlinvillepolice.com.  You can also reach out to the Macoupin & Montgomery Counties Crimestoppers at 1-800-352-0136. 

Protecting your business in 2022 is important. Whether it’s the cyberworld, finances, accountability, or hacking, Shelbyville Insurance Services, Derek Hayden, says to be on the lookout.  He warns about one activity that’s been picking up: cyber liability. 

Hayden says that smaller businesses are more vulnerable than the larger corporations.

Hayden says he feels that cyber liability is the most important coverage a small business can get.

Cyber liability can make all the difference between having protection, and surviving a cyber attack. 

Hayden appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show live from our studio in downtown Shelbyville.

Through tragedy always comes a light at the end of the tunnel, and for Kenny Schwengel, former principal of Shelbyville High School that came through the untimely passing of his son. Schwengel lost his son Tucker at the age of 21 and built No Bad Days farm in his memory. 

Schwengel has plenty of events at No Bad Days farms. He is excited to announce a rhythm and blues festival coming on June 4th.

Schwengel says to bring a blanket or lawn chair and says it should be a good evening. He hopes this event will continue.  He also announced that the farm has chickens now.

Another area that Schwengel has talked about is sheep. 

Find out more about No Bad Days Farm by visiting them on their Facebook page. Schwengel appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show Live from our studios in downtown Shelbyville. 

The Taylorville Park Board will meet on Monday evening at 7 PM at the Manners Park Dining Hall to discuss business, review ordinances, and go over reports.

Under committee reports, the board will hear from maintenance superintendent Gary Brown, Office Administrator Lisa Morillo, and Recreational Director Bailey Hancock. The board will review a report from the finance committee and pay bills. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more on this story at the conclusion of the meeting.

Both Taylorville Police and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office had a busy weekend. Taylorville Police got a report of a suspicious person and upon arrival encountered 36 year old Stephon Little. After an investigation, it was revealed that Little had an extensive criminal history which includes armed robbery and other crimes. Little was detained and subsequently charged with several gun violations.  Upon further investigation, TPD seized from Little a 9mm loaded handgun with a round in the chamber that had a serial number scratched off, a loaded AK47 with one in the chamber, and an armor vest that contained rifle plates. 

In Montgomery County, A Deputy Sheriff conducted a completely unrelated traffic stop in the early morning hours of May 20th on Route 16 in Irving Township east of Hillsboro.  The Deputy made contact with 57 year old David E. Henry of Hillsboro.  Deputies located 3 grams of meth during the stop. Based on information obtained during the stop, and with the help of Montgomery County State’s Attorney Andrew Affrunti, police obtained a search warrant for his residence.  

While at the residence, Sheriff’s Deputies confiscated around 90 grams of methamphetamine and a firearm.  Cash, scales, and cannabis were also seized and Henry was charged with armed habitual criminal and methamphetamine delivery.  His bond was set at $150,000. 
 

Nokomis Police were involved with a standoff in Nokomis last week.  On Wednesday, May 18th, at 5:13 AM, Nokomis police were dispatched to 402 Griffin Street in Nokomis for a reported domestic battery.  When police arrived they were unable to locate the suspect, 38 year old James A. McCaslin. Police learned that McCaslin had an active arrest warrant in Christian County.

Later that morning, at 7:34 AM, Nokomis Police were again dispatched to the residence after a report that McCaslin had returned. When authorities arrived, they learned that McCaslin had locked himself in a detached garage. Officers received reports that McCaslin may have had several homemade explosive devices, and was possibly suicidal. 

After attempts to make contact with McCaslin proved futile, Montgomery County States Attorney Andrew Affrunti approved a search warrant for the property due to the possibility of an explosive device, and additional units were requested. 

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, ISP District 18, ILEAS critical response team, Illinois Secretary of State police bomb squad and the Montgomery County Mental Health Crisis Team assisted along with the Nokomis Witt Ambulance Company and the Nokomis Fire Department.

The standoff ended at 1:08 PM when ILEAS Critical Response team breached the garage door and McCaslin surrendered without further incident or injury.  McCaslin was then transported to the Montgomery County Jail and is currently charged with obstruction of justice, domestic battery, and illegal possession of firearm ammunition with a revoked FOID. 
 

It was a packed gym at Shelbyville High School Saturday night, when some 86 graduates were given their diploma in the annual Commencement, which was broadcast live on Cruisin' 98-point-3 WSVZ.

The graduates entered the gym while the Shelbyville High School Band performed the traditional "Pomp and Circumstance", with invocation then offered by Michael Tomlin.  

S-H-S principal Kyle Ladd welcomed the public and graduating seniors to the event, and Superintendent Shane Schuricht then announced this school year's Students of the Month, with the Student of the Year honor—selected by the Regional Office of Education—going to senior Emma Houska, who also gave the salutatorian speech.

In it, Houska told the gathering about the great memories.

Shelbyville senior Emma Congenie gave the valedictorian speech, telling those in attendance the class has grown the past 4 years.

Ladd then presented the 86 diplomas, Ella Tynan gave the benediction, and the Shelbyville High School Band played the recessional as the Graduating Class of 2022 left the high school gym for the last time.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held a drive-thru donation day benefiting the Taylorville Food Pantry at the Miller Media Group front parking lot on Saturday.

Despite the rainy weather, Kiwanis Member Joe Hauser said that people still came out to give both monetary and non-perishable food donations.

Fellow member Chuck Martin says that Taylorville is a generous community that can always be counted on to help out.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club, the Taylorville Food Pantry, and the Miller Media Group thank all those who donated.

Some 159 graduates received their diploma Friday night at the 129th Annual Commencement at Taylorville High School's Dolph Stanley Gym.

It was a packed house for the just over one hour ceremony where class speaker Kennedie Cearlock told graduates their preserverence led them to graduate.

The night also featured a special Taylorville Senior High Choir number entitled "Like an Eagle", and a special Senior High Concert Band number called "Undertow."

T-H-S principal Matt Hutchison told the crowd that over 22-percent of this year's grads were honor students all 4 years, and added this class' 4 years were full of challenges.

Taylorville School Superintendent Doctor Chris Dougherty told attendees T-H-S seniors have made many strides.

Following presentation of the diplomas by Taylorville Board president Tricia Marberger, senior Elizabeth Schafer gave the benediction.  Here's a portion of it.

The event was broadcast live on groovy 97-point-3 WRAN. 

Here's class speaker Kennedie Cearlock's complete speech:

Here's senior Elizabeth Schaefer's complete benediction:

A Shelby County judge sentences a 31-year-old Decatur man to seven years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. 

According to Shelby County State’s Attorney Nichole Kroncke, the sentence relates to Joshua White’s July attack of a corrections officer resulting in bodily harm. 

The case went to trial and a jury returned a guilty verdict for White. The charge carries a sentencing range of 3 to 7 years. 

Judge Stan Brandmeyer delivered the maximum sentence after a contested sentencing hearing.

On July 27th, 2021, White lashed out at corrections officers when they directed White back to his cell. When officers shut the cell door, White charged an officer, grabbing and striking him forcefully on the head with his fist and threatened to kill the officer. The officer suffered a concussion and missed several days of work following the attack. 

Illinois House Republican lawmakers calling for a change in leadership at the Department of Children and Family Services. 

A state audit released last week found that the DCFS failed to comply with reforms aimed at increasing child safety passed in 2019. 

Illinois state Representative Deanne Mazzochi details the case. 

Rep. Mazzochi calls on Governor JB Pritzker to take action. 

For State Representative Steve Reich, it’s about Gov. Pritzker fulfilling his promise. 

State Representative Tom Weber says there’s nothing current director Marc Smith can do but step aside.

The DCFS has responded. “The Department of Children and Family Services has taken aggressive measures to improve the services and care provided to youth in care during the past three years.”

The Chili Capitol of Illinois, Taylorville, hosting a pair of chili cook-offs this weekend.

Chillifest Committee Chili Chair Tom Calvert says the Lincoln Prairie Trail Regional cook-off is Saturday, while the Aldo Klinghammer Memorial Chili Shuffle is Sunday – both at the Palomino Club. 

Calvert loves the family environment of chili cook-offs. 

Both cook-offs still need volunteers to test the chili. 

Chili cooks listen up – Calvert is a world champion and has a word of advice. 

Learn more at chilicookoff.com. Calvert appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

In late 2021, the Illinois General Assembly passed the Home to Market Act, which expanded the state’s Cottage Food law passed in 2012. 

University of Illinois Extension Health and Wellness Educator Lisa Peterson says the extension office of Christian County is ready to help people navigate the new law which went into effect in January. 

Peterson says cottage foods are typically non-perishable and sealed off items. 

The first step is to sign up for a course to receive a certificate verifying you know the law. 

Peterson says the use of cottage foods is a great way to become an entrepreneur.

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

Officials at Shelbyville High School have announced that due to possible inclement weather, they are moving the Saturday night graduation ceremony from the high school football field, to the high school gym.  The ceremony will still begin at 7pm, and be broadcast live on WSVZ Cruisin' 98.3.  

Shelbyville's high school graduation ceremony will include remarks from the salutatorian and valedectorian, as well as music from the Shelbyville High School band directed by Charity Astrouski.

Again, Shelbyville's high school graduation has been moved to the high school gym Saturday night with the same start time 7pm, and will be broadcast live on WSVZ Cruisin' 98.3.

Taylorville School Board approved a plan to build a Fine Arts and Sports Complex Facility.

Superintendent Dr. Chris Dougherty says this plan has been in the works for a while. 

The plan calls for a field house with two courts and an auditorium with around 400 seats. 

The district is in a good spot to take this project on – dubbed “Project A Plus.” The “plus” comes in a situation where the district is able to raise more money than needed for the original scheme. 

Touring examples of facilities and fundraising are the next steps. 

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

An investigation has cleared the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office of allegations of fraud, theft, and official misconduct.  According to the Office of the Attorney General, State of Illinois, Public Integrity Bureau, the allegations do not constitute a criminal offense and they do not support any criminal charges.

The Illinois Attorney General’s Office was appointed by the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court as a special prosecutor to review and possibly prosecute allegations of fraud, theft, and misconduct levied by the Shelby County Treasurer in December of 2019.  An investigation showed theft of funds through the payroll system for the Sheriff’s Office as well as an alleged illegal sale of seized firearms.  The ISP DCI Zone 5 conducted the investigation. 

The company 20/20 Forensic Accounting was retained by Shelby County to conduct a payroll audit of the Office from January 2015 to July 2020. During the audit, the firm would review payroll records, bank accounts, collective bargaining agreements, and bank statements for the county and the Sheriff’s Office.  The audit showed that $326,315 was overpaid to employees and 332,598 was underpaid to employees.  The final results were a net underpayment of $6,283. The audit finds were shared and reviewed by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.  

All firearms that have been related to this incident and investigation have been accounted for and secured within the office according to Shelby County Sheriff Brian McReynolds. 

Navigator and Tenaska’s Heartland Greenway Carbon Capture and Storage project hit a roadblock. 

Chief Operating Officer David Giles says Christian County’s moratorium on approving zoning ordinances won’t stop the project. 

The moratorium provides Navigator an opportunity to work on providing more information. 

According to Giles, there is a lot of misinformation floating around in regards to the project. Most recently, Navigator has heard rumors about how this project could impact the aquifer. Giles says it’s just not the case. 

Navigator points those skeptical to peer-reviewed research from private entities. 

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

Heartland Greenway has released a statement on the moratorium vote in Christian County last night. Jim Prescott of Heartland Greenway says, "We appreciate that County Board members want to have all of the information they need before taking any action in the future.  As we’ve shared with them, Heartland Greenway is not ready to start construction and we haven’t filed for state or federal permits, which will take 18 to 24 months to obtain. We recognize the County Board, landowners, and Christian County residents have important questions about Heartland Greenway, and we are committed to answering all of them, and to ensure that the county has the information it needs to make an informed decision about this project. We also are committed to working with the County Board to develop a fact-based zoning framework that is fair, feasible, and leads to a prosperous future for Christian County that encourages economic development."

Three people have been arrested in Taylorville after an investigation led to a search warrant on Tuesday. Police received complaints from citizens about narcotics traffic on the 400 block of East Adams Street.  During the investigation, TPD learned that the persons of interest in the residence could be armed and there were children inside.  Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says that the Emergency Response Team formulated plans days earlier in a way that they could enter the residence in a safe manner. The warrant was executed after hours of surveillance Tuesday evening. 

Three people were arrested in the residence.  Thomas Painter was arrested for armed violence, delivery of a controlled substance 5-15 grams, possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver 15-100 grams, child endangerment, and unlawful use of a residence. Marissa Tennant was arrested for armed violence possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver 15-100 grams, child endangerment, and unlawful use of a residence. Alexis Rosa was arrested for delivery of a controlled substance for 5-15 grams and child endangerment.

Chief Wheeler thanked the ERT for their hard work and dedication.  He hopes that the citizens in the area feel safer and thanked Christian County State’s Attorney Wes Poggenpohl for the dedication to the investigation.

Chief Wheeler also thanked Kincaid and Assumption Police for their assistance in the execution of the warrant and all of the agencies of the Community Action Team for their continued support.

The WSVZ and Family Drug-Shelbyville Students of the Month for May 2022 were presented with their awards recently. Congratulations to McKenna Kull, Katelyne Donald, Kynlee Summers, and Rope Hatfield,

From L to R Senior McKenna Kull, Junior Katelyne Donald, Sophomore Kynlee Summers, Freshman Rope Hatfield, and Family Drug Representative Bridgette Depew.

Peoples Bank and Trust and 94.3 WMKR are proud to present the Pana High School April 2022. Students of the Month for the month of May are Logan Roberts, Siarra Hammond, Chloe Bland, and Noah Gorenz. 

L -R: SENIOR LOGAN ROBERTS; JUNIOR(NOT PICTURED) SIARRA HAMMOND; SOPHOMORE CHLOE BLAND; FRESHMAN NOAH GORENZ

Peoples Bank and Trust along with WTIM The Big 870 AM and 96.1 FM are proud to announce the Taylorville Students of the Month for May. Congratulations to Jack McGrath, Kaden Parini, Jessi Wright, and Trace Helton

L-R:  PEOPLES BANK AND TRUST REPRESENTATIVE  SARAH VANHUSS; SENIOR JACK MCGRATH; JUNIOR KADEN PARINI; SOPHOMORE JESSI WRIGHT; FRESHMAN TRACE HELTON 

Farmers are often focused on what their crop is doing now. 

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs wants farmers to think about the future with the Ag Invest program.

Frerichs says this program has come a long way from when it first started and now offers direct financial assistance.

The low interest rate allows farmers to make more off their loan-based investment. 

This is to help current farmers, of course. It is also about the next generation of farmers. 

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

U.S. Representative Rodney Davis voted yes on the National Defense Authorization Act For Fiscal Year 2021. 

A portion of that resolution sends military aid to Ukraine to help fight Russia. Rep. Davis says that Ukraine must have the aid. 

The bipartisan effort stands out to Rep. Davis. Over 80 percent of legislators voted yes. 

The biggest reason why Rep. Davis believes Ukraine should receive aid has to do with democracy. 

Ultimately, many are concerned Russia will not stop with Ukraine. That includes Rep. Davis.

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

While methamphetamine is a common cause of drug addiction in central Illinois, Taylorville Safe Passage coordinator Denise Evans is focused on fentanyl. 

Evans says that the opioid can be used in medical settings to treat extreme pain. However, when it is on the streets she says it can be deadly and very addictive. 

Obviously, avoiding drugs is the best course of action, but Evans says if you’re going to use then at-home drug test kits can save lives. 

Safe Passage is there for anybody who needs help. All they have to do is ask. Evans says Safe Passage is focused on mental health of users. 

Learn more on the Safe Passage of Taylorville Facebook page. Evans appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County board met for their monthly board meeting and one of the bigger discussions centered around a proposed six-month moratorium that would put a halt on any vote on the CO2 Carbon Sequestration project for 6 months. Board member, Ray Koonce, said the moratorium would be good for both sides.

Koonce continued by stressing that this would be a good way for Tenaska Heartland Greenway to have time to show how safe this project would be. Chairman Matt Wells added his thoughts, including a letter that he received from a local attorney asking that the moratorium be passed or some rules are put down. He also asked States Attorney Wes Poggenpohl his thoughts on the moratorium and whether or not the board could pass it without the ZBA. 

Chairman Wells says he is concerned about safety, but also is worried that the moratorium is “just kicking the can down the road.”

Wells says the next step is for the Zoning Board of Appeals to have a meeting and make a recommendation to the board. 

The motion for the moratorium passed overwhelmingly. Everyone voted yes for it except Matt Wells and  Dale Livingston. Heartland Greenway has released the following statement following the moratorium vote. "We appreciate that County Board members want to have all of the information they need before taking any action in the future.  As we’ve shared with them, Heartland Greenway is not ready to start construction and we haven’t filed for state or federal permits, which will take 18 to 24 months to obtain. We recognize the County Board, landowners, and Christian County residents have important questions about Heartland Greenway, and we are committed to answering all of them, and to ensure that the county has the information it needs to make an informed decision about this project. We also are committed to working with the County Board to develop a fact-based zoning framework that is fair, feasible, and leads to a prosperous future for Christian County that encourages economic development."

In other board news, the board approved new windows for the courthouse, a split on the roles for Vince Harris who will shift away from animal control and focus more on waste management, and Gary Merker was added as a new member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. The board was also informed that the audit for the county went very well. ARPA funds for problem-solving were approved along with some other ARPA spending bills.  The next county board meeting is set for June 21st. 

Taylorville School Board approved a plan for the proposed Fine Arts and Sports Complex at Taylorville Highschool at their monthly meeting Tuesday evening.

Board Member Rick Bryan praises the approval.

The board tabled a motion to approve the purchase of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade ELA Curriculum until the curriculum committee could review it.

Superintendent Doctor Chris Dougherty says the curriculum isn't new. However, board member Jennifer Dammerman says curriculum committee members didn't feel comfortable approving it without time to review.

The board also approved Wendy Dulakis as Treasurer for the 2022-23 school year. 

The board also approved the purchase of the CTI building, reviewed the budget, presented a list of over 170 graduating seniors, and heard from Dr. Dougherty.

The board also adopted the regular meeting schedule for the upcoming school year. 

The next scheduled board meeting is Tuesday, June 28th. 

The WTIM 70th Anniversary video, first premiered on May 6 during the 115th Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet, is now available to watch on WTIM's youtube channel, WTIMTV.

Click HERE to watch this 37 minutes of history featuring local people connected to WTIM, and a very special high school football game finish.

The video was produced by Neil Hohenstein and Addison Vocks, from countless assets provided them over nearly a year, by WTIM.

Assumption Fire responded to a popcorn factory fire Monday night around 9:48 PM. The fire occurred at the Great Western popcorn factory.  When Assumption Fire arrived, there were flames with heavy smoke coming from two buildings. 

Mutual aid was requested from Moweaqua, Stonington, Taylorville, Pana, Edinburg, Nokomis, Owanaco, and Blue Mound for manpower, tankers, and other equipment.  Assumption Ambulance, Christian County Sheriff's Office, and the State Fire Marshal were all on the scene as well. An excavator was brought and the fire was under control with the last unit leaving around 3:30 AM.  

The Taylorville School Board is set to meet this evening at 6 PM for their monthly school board meeting. After hearing from visitors and receiving communications, the board will approve the consent agenda, minutes, claims, treasurer’s report, and consideration of personnel. The board will also consider and potentially approve some trips for the FFA. 

Under old business, the board will go over a recap of the strategic planning focus, and talk about schemes for the building committee. The board will discuss purchasing the CTI Building, as CTI themselves are moving. The board will announce and accept some donated property for some building trades homes and consider and approve quotes for the purchase of 6,7, and 8th Grade ELA Curriculum.

Under new business, the board will review a budget amendment, adopt the 2022-2023 School Board Meeting Dates, and appoint Wendy Dulakis as treasurer for the 2022-2023 school year. The board will announce the first reading of the ISBE Press Policy updates, a list of seniors for graduation, the adoption of district fees, the discipline codebook (no changes are expected), and the consideration of the consolidated district plan.

There will be a Superintendent’s report and a possible closed session. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for a recap on the meeting at the conclusion of today’s event.

One of the main focuses of the Christian County TRIAD program is preventing scams. 

Officer Kirsten Bollinger says many scammers target the elderly because they are the generation of trust and security. 

Officer Bollinger has advice for when you think a scammer is contacting you. 

Scammers have become quite good at playing on your emotions.

Officer Bollinger says you should contact the police department if you are the victim of a scam. 

Officer Bollinger appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Taylorville Choir Students received several awards at their year-end Honors Concert which was held on Thursday, May 12th. Jaylee Smith was recognized as an outstanding 7th and 8th grade choir member.  Ella Hohenstein was recognized as an outstanding 7th and 8th-grade musician. Izzy Miller was recognized as an outstanding THS Mixed Choir Member. Savannah Sorrells was recognized as an outstanding THS Mixed Choir Musician. Gage Matthews was recognized as an outstanding THS Concert Choir Member and Olivia Enlow was awarded as an outstanding THS Concert Choir Musician.

Taylorville Music Director Keith Chase also informed Regional Radio News that Gage Matthews was announced as the recipient of the prestigious National School Choral Award. Congratulations to the winners. 

Christian County YMCA hosting it’s annual golf outing June 10th. 

Associate Executive Andrea Bach says it’s for a great cause. 

Bach says the Y is still looking for sponsors. 

All sorts of great prizes available, too. 

Registration is $85 and covers your fee and so much more. 

Learn more at ccymca.org. Bach appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Two students from Pana were highlighted during TCCU’s Scholarship promotion. Eight Seniors total were recognized including two from Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, and Pana High Schools. The Pana Students recognized were Jaxon Rhoades and Hayden Roeder. Rhoades is set to attend school at SIU-Edwardsville to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.  Roeder will attend Lakeland College for an associate's degree and then pursue a bachelor's degree in Sociology at a 4-year university. 

TCCU President, Will Perkins, wished all of the winner's congratulations and thanked the many businesses who participated.  Perkins says in Pana alone, 2,220 ballots were filled out, resulting in a total of 9,349 votes cast. 17 businesses participated in Pana and it cost $10 for each vote. 

Any graduating senior at the four high schools who planned to continue their education were eligible to participate Pana businesses that participated included: A1 Furniture Wholesale, Anarchy, Countryside Campers, Cutz ‘n Curls, Eleven 11, Hair Razors, Holthaus Appliances, Locked & Loaded, Nohren’s Hardware, Outdoor Power Source, Pana Bowl, Pana Save-A-Lot, Pizza Man, Rack Attack Archery, Spring Garden Restaurant, Station 502 Pub/Pizza and SuperStarz Tanning. 

Registration for the 2022-23 Scholarship Program will begin in August, following the resumption of classes at the high schools. Students will be able to register through Friday, October 14th.  To register students can simply provide TCCU with their name and photo and a signed Parental Permission slip. The students’ photos will be used on promotional posters.  Anyone who has a student-or who knows a student that will be a senior for the 2022-2023 school year and who plans to continue their education, is encouraged to make sure that student registers with the new school year. 

For more information on the program and information about TCCU and the many services that it offers can view www.TCCU.org or call Taylorville at 217-824-9658 or in Pana at 217-562-2516.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office announced the winner of their Illinois Sheriffs’ Association Academic Scholarships. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp announced that Alexis Kent of Taylorville was the recipient of the scholarship. Sheriff Kettelkamp says that Kent was selected from a number of highly qualified applicants in the Christian County area. He thanked everyone for applying and says that Illinois Sheriffs consider this scholarship program to be an investment in the future as well as a strong signal of their respect and support for education.  

112 scholarships were awarded by the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association throughout the state of Illinois to students pursuing higher education during the 2022/2023 year.

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening and cannabis was the big discussion of the evening.  No one has come forward saying they want to build a dispensary in Taylorville, and there are no plans for building one in the future, but with nearby cities including Pana voting on it, it was on the agenda this evening to be discussed. After a public hearing was held, the planning commission reported to the board that they had voted against recommending the allowance of an adult use cannabis dispensing organization. Since the planning commission voted against adding one, the board would need a 2/3rds vote to pass the ordinance. 

Many Alderman and Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry said that it was a money thing and if it came back that the city wasn’t getting the money that was projected, this would be addressed in the future. Alderman Chris Skultety, who voted no on the ordinance, felt that the projections for Taylorville for cannabis were higher than what they should be.

Alderman Skultety and Alderman Kathy Driskell (who voted no) called it a slippery slope. Mayor Barry said he wasn’t elected to legislate morality and that it started from home. Alderman Skultety says 

Mayor Barry says he would have never legalized marijuana but he says that marijuana may be whats best for Taylorville when it comes to cash flow. Mayor Barry says he doesn’t feel Taylorville will get an establishment, but he feels we have to leave that door open. Alderman Jim Olive who voted yes on the ordinance says that the talk of marijuana is not new, nor is it just a local conversation.

Both cannabis motions passed with Aldermen Megan Bryant, Larry Budd, Jim Olive, Doug Wilson, Jeremy Brown and Mayor Barry all voting yes. Aldermen Steve Dorchinecz, Kathy Driskell, and Chris Skultety voting no. 

In other board news, Taylorville High School Wrestling Athlete Gage Rusher was praised as youth of the month.  The board approved a special events permit for the Taylorville Blackhorse Veterans for May 27th and 28th. The board received clarification on the ARPA funds for the employee retention bonus. The board approved new computers for the Taylorville squad cars.  The Mayor also gave his updates including a thank you for the support of the Skateboard park.

To hear the complete audio from this entire meeting, see below.

The next city council meeting is set for June 6th. 

The FBI is seeking information in an arson incident in Harvel.  On April 21st around midnight, someone gained access to an excavator owned by Vance and Associates and used it to destroy a trailer and a sandblaster.  The subject or subjects than set fire to the excavator and a semi-tractor trailer.  This incident resulted in several hundred thousand dollars in damage. A reward is being offered of up to $10,000 for any information that will lead to the arrest and conviction of the persons responsible for the arson. 

If you have any information on this incident, you are encouraged to call the FBI Springfield Office at 217-522-9675 or email them at springfield@fbi.gov or contact the Macoupin/Montgomery County Crimestoppers at 800-352-0136. 

The Illinois State Police are investigating a multiple vehicle personal injury traffic crash that occurred on Interstate 55 southbound near milepost 91. Three vehicles were traveling southbound on Interstate 55 near milepost 91 in Sangamon County.  

21-year-old Li’Derick Franklin of St. Charles, Missouri and his passenger 23-year-old Demetrius Sims from St. Louis, Missouri was in the left lane. David Buckhart, a 75-year-old male from Whitefish, Montana, was in the middle lane, and 49 year old Erika Palsen of Divernon, Illinois was in the right lane.

Franklin attempted to conduct a lane change into the center lane. Buckhart swerved out of the way, striking Palsen’s vehicle.  All three vehicles collided.  Franklin’s vehicle traveled off the left side of the roadway striking several yellow crash barriers. Buckhart was able to safely stop his vehicle on the right shoulder.  

Palsen’s vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a metal guardrail, and overturned onto the passenger side, injuring Palsen’s passenger—59-year-old Phillip Palsen of Divernon.  Both Palsen’s were transported by ambulance to an area hospital with minor injuries. No other drivers reported any injuries.  

Franklin was cited for improper lane usage. 

Summer reading helps children retain what they learned during the school year. 

That’s according to director of Shelbyville Public Library Monica Cameron. She says there’s a chance for kids to read to a therapy dog named Bernice. 

Cameron says that the popular books for kids change every year. 

She also says Bernice is extremely beneficial for children to read to. 

Registration for the Summer Reading program opens soon. 

Learn more at shelbyvillelibary.org. Cameron appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in Downtown Shelbyville.

Calling 8-1-1 before you dig, is super important. You never know what lines and what pipes may be buried under your house and under your yard, and hitting them can cause huge smells, huge problems, and huge bills. Jake Dukett is the supervisor of Public Awareness for Ameren Illinois' natural gas system and wants everyone to know about JULIE—which is Illinois’ 8-1-1. JULIE stands for Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators and it is a nonprofit organization that handles the 8-1-1 calls.

Dukett says its important to call JULIE before you dig. 

JULIE will come out and mark up the grass to show where everything is buried but there’s plenty of information in the colors and what those flags mean.

Now that everything is marked, you’re allowed to dig, as long as you follow certain guidelines.

If you do hit a line, you need to call 9-1-1 and Ameren immediately. 

For more information, visit https://www.illinois1call.com/. 

Shelbyville holding a Memorial Day program Saturday May 28th at the Glenwood Cemetery. 

Bill Shoaff is an organizer of the event. 

Shoaff says this is a long-standing tradition. 

He wants you to be on the lookout for a fundraiser for this event in the coming months. 

Then, for actual Memorial Day, there’s another ceremony. 

Shoaff 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 for their regular city council meeting. Gage Rusher is expected to be honored as the youth of the month. After a reviewal of the minutes, the board will go over an ordinance for adding a new chapter to the City Code for adding a cannabis dispenser in town in the future. 

The board will continue a discussion on the development and operation of a megawatt solar energy facility on GSI. The board will discuss approving a power purchase agreement with renewable energy evolution for solar, buying a 2019 Dodge Charge police vehicle, a special events permit for the Blackhorse Veterans PowWow at the end of May, and a special events permit for the Journey in July on July 15-17th. 

In committee reports, the board will recommend approval for a bid to advertise a heavy equipment operator at the water treatment plant, they will also recommend allowing Chief Dwayne Wheeler of the Taylorville Police Department to purchase 19 new computers for their squad cars, and to discuss the budget. 

Under lake and airport, the board will approve a portable toilet for the Veteran’s Memorial Park and for holding tanks at the Lake Lots and Campgrounds. In water/environmental, the board will discuss approving a saw, upgrading the billing software, and approving the purchase of the trailer attenuator from Warning Signs. 

There will also be city attorney updates and Mayoral updates from Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry. Stay tuned at the conclusion of the meeting for the latest. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held a drive-thru donation day benefiting the Taylorville Food Pantry at the Miller Media Group front parking lot Saturday, May 14th. 

Kiwanis member Dean Ray thanks everyone who donated. 

Fellow member Larry Kemner says more and more people are utilizing the Taylorville Food Pantry than ever before. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club hosting another Drive-Thru donation day from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 21st at studios at 918 E Park Street in Taylorville. They welcome your non-perishable food and monetary donations. The Kiwanis Club will take the donations straight to the Taylorville Food Pantry. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club, the Taylorville Food Pantry, and the Miller Media Group thank all those who donated. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is again holding a Drive-thru Donation Day to benefit the Taylorville Food Pantry, Saturday from 9am to 1pm in the front parking lot of the Miller Media Group studios at 918 East Park.

Kiwanis members Dean Ray and Larry Kemmner will have a truck parked in front of the studios to take non-perishable food and monetary donations.  All donations will be given to the Taylorville Food Pantry for families that are in need.

Food Pantry officials have previously told Regional Radio News that despite the effects of the pandemic lessening, food insecurity among Taylorville and Christian County residents is increasing.

Your donations of non-perishable food and monetary donations are welcome.  The event is also being broadcast live on the 5 Taylorville-based Miller Media Group radio stations.

Meet Matt Hausman – he’s a Republican running for U.S. Congress in the newly drawn 13th district. 

After receiving a non-profit management certificate, he took a trip to Columbia to help at the local YMCA. For four years he facilitated programs, then decided it was time to come home to Central Illinois. He now works and manages on his family farm in Pesodum, and he manages a non-profit called, “Feeding Our Kids.”

Hausman wants to clarify that he is not running against current Congressman Rodney Davis, because Representative Davis is running in the 15th district and not the 13th that he currently represents. 

Hausman says that he wants to operate like Rep. Davis does if he is elected. 

Hausman talks a lot about the American Dream. His idea of that is for everyone to chase their own image of the American Dream without restriction. 

Learn more at hausmanforcongress.com. Hausman appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

While construction is two years away, landowners are receiving notices for the Heartland Greenway Carbon Capture and Storage pipeline from Navigator and Tenaska. 

Kathleen Campbell is one of those landowners, and she co-founded the Coalition Against Carbon Pipelines. She says she received a notice at her home in rural Sangamon County. For Campbell – it’s bad news. 

Campbell says that once she received the letter threatening eminent domain she started doing a lot of research and did not like what she found. 

Campbell is most concerned about what would happen if the pipeline leaks.

Outside of safety, Campbell does not appreciate the way Navigator is handling this project. 

Learn more at noillinoisco2pipelines.org. Campbell appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

House Republicans are questioning spending in the new state budget and are worried that there is too much reliance on the one-time federal COVID-19 relief money to fund projects.  The GOP says there is too much-increased spending planned for the new fiscal year. State Representative Tom Demmer says that Illinoisans have a right to know what’s going on with the spending.

Republicans say they were left out of the final budget negotiations and say that money is going to be spent that is not there. GOP Leader Jim Durkin echoed the same sentiment. 

Durkin says any extra money should have been used to shore up the state’s unemployment insurance fund which took a big hit during the pandemic.

A Ramsey man has been sentenced to six years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for unlawful possession of weapons by a felon. 30 year old Derek Trumbold was sentenced on May 4th for the incident.  Shelby County State’s Attorney Nichole Kroncke says that the charge carries a sentencing range of 3 to 14 years in prison. 

Trumbold was arrested on January 23rd, 2022 after law enforcement responded to a domestic disturbance in Oconee. During the incident, Trumbold broke a picture window and opened a pocket knife and threw it at the victim. Trumbold then fled; damaging property and kicking holes in the wall.  He was charged with possession of a dangerous knife with the intent to use it unlawfully against another, after having been convicted of the offense of aggravated battery, a forcible felony.

Turmbold was on parole when the offense occurred and has remained in custody since his arrest. Kroncke thanked the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office for their work on the case. 

A Carlinville man has died in a motorcycle-truck accident in Montgomery County on Wednesday. At 5:40 PM, 49-year-old Ronald C. Schaaff of Carlinville was traveling behind two other vehicles westbound on IL Route 108 at East 2nd Road in Montgomery County in a 2008 red Yamaha motorcycle.  The lead vehicle was driven by 57-year-old Harold K. Schmidt of Carlinville who was driving a 2013 blue Dodge truck pulling a box trailer.  

Schaaff passed the middle vehicle as Schmidt made a left hand turn onto East 2nd Road. Schaaff struck the rear of the box trailer being pulled by Schmidt. Schaaff was ejected and pronounced deceased on the scene by the Montgomery County Coroner.  Schmidt claimed no injuries at the scene of the crash. Illinois Route 108 was closed for nearly 4 hours.  The investigation is still ongoing.
 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and help is available for farmers who may be struggling. With the amount of rain that Illinois has had combined with uncertainties of the market, farmers may be having a tough time right now.  Karen Stallman with the Farm Family Resource Initiative says hotlines are available for farmers to reach out to 24/7. 

The call is anonymous.  Stallman says that hotlines can offer a sympathetic ear and valuable assistance.

The caller may be directed to additional resources and assistance is available for farmers, their spouses, or kids. Call or text 1-833-FARM-SOS. 

The Illinois State Police is offering a new training program to attract more potential troopers. The lateral entry training program is designed for local law enforcement who may be looking to become a state police trooper.  ISP Director Brendan Kelly says cadets will spend time at the academy in Springfield but also complete some home training.

Kelly says this is a good way to ease concerns about being away from family for so long.

New troopers are then assigned to their home districts and the retirement age for troopers has been lowered from 60 to 55. For more information on how to become an Illinois State Trooper visit. https://www.illinoistrooper.com.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is also helping out.  He is signing a package of bills to assist crime victims and address the root causes of violence.  One new law is creating a co-responder pilot program in Peoria, Springfield, East St. Louis, and Waukegan where police officers will be able to bring mental health professionals on calls with them.

Peoria Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth says that one new law will fund efforts to retain police officers and pay for funeral expenses when a child is a victim of gun violence.  There will also be more money put into a crime witness protection program. 

The governor signed the package of laws on Tuesday. 

A Taylorville woman has been charged with aggravated arson after police responded to a house fire on East Adams Street.  On May 10th, Taylorville Police along with Taylorville Fire received a call in regards to a house fire and had received a call about a disturbance at that same location.  When Taylorville police arrived, they observed thick black smoke coming from the residence. Police tried yelling to see if anyone was inside but didn’t hear anything, so they entered the house to check for citizens.  The smoke was too heavy, so Taylorville fire had to enter the house.  No one was inside and Taylorville Fire quickly put out the flames. 

After talking to witnesses, Taylorville Police learned that neighbors heard a disturbance and the homeowner walking away from the residence prior to the fire. TPD went searching for the homeowner and her children and after speaking to witnesses, learned her whereabouts. Police made contact with Brittney J. Hill who was interviewed and admitted to burning her house down.  She and the children were taken to the police station.  

The Fire Marshal was called in to assist with the investigation since it was ruled arson.  States Attorney Wes Poggenpohl was notified and Hill was charged with aggravated arson and transported to the Christian County Jail.  Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says this is the third arson already this year and two of the three arsons have been cleared by arrests. 

The Christian County YMCA celebrating a successful Sustaining Drive. 

Director Bruce Blanshan says the Y exceeded its goal. 

Blanshan thanks the community for its effort.

He also thanks the various businesses who contributed. 

Blanshan says that the donations will go towards memberships for folks in need. 

Learn more at ccymca.org. Blanshan appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

An ATV accident has left one in critical condition and a 6 year old dead in Christian County on Sunday.  At 8:08 PM, 9-1-1 received a call-in reference to an ATV crash in Johnson Township in Christian County. Authorities arrived and found three occupants that had been thrown from an ATV. 

44 year old James Bradley Cox was the driver of the ATV and was transported to St. John’s Hospital and is in critical condition. A 10 year old male was also transported to St. John’s Hospital with minor injuries and was released.  6 year old Ulicia M. Garner-Cox of Oklahoma was pronounced dead on the scene by Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans.

Coroner Winans said of the incident, “This is a tragic accident that has affected a family deeply.  It has affected our law enforcement and emergency responders and we continue to pray for the entire family as they heal physically and emotionally.”

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says the investigation is still ongoing but there is no indication that the driver was impaired by alcohol or drugs. 

Assisting at the scene were the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, Dunn’s Ambulance, Owaneco Fire Department, and Morrisonville Police Department. 

Warmer weather is finally here. 

Taylorville Park District Recreation Director Bailey Hancock says the pool should be ready to roll around the start of June.

The reopening of the pool also means swimming, life guard, and CPR lessons return.

The park district is celebrating 60 years of the Taylorville pool this summer. 

Hancock says the park district hopes to renovate the pool as soon as possible. 

Hancock appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A Republican Governor candidate says that he would like to see an end to internal party bickering. Paul Schimpf, GOP candidate for Illinois Governor spoke at an event hosted by former State Representative Roger Eddy in Robinson Illinois.  Schimpf focused on a need for the Illinois Republican Party to defeat JB Pritzker but worried that the destructive nature of the primaries would keep them from doing that. 

He says there must be an end to party bickering that is dividing the Republican Party and is worried that all the fighting is keeping voters away.  Schimpf says that “Illinois needs a Governor who will listen, learn, and lead in a way that unites and recognizes the strength of Illinois is in its people not its government.”

Schimpf served as a State Senator for the 58th Senate District, is a Marine Corps veteran and spent time as the Chief American Attorney Advisor to Iraqi prosecutors in the trial of Saddam Hussein.  He and his family live in rural Monroe County. 

The Illinois Department of Transportation is announcing the release of a new Illinois Official Highway Map.  This map includes route updates, as well as a new feature that shows mileage between towns and marked route junctions.  This will help residents and visitors alike plan their travels throughout. Spokesperson Paul Wappel says there is also a connection between your smartphone and this map. 

If you want a map, all Wappel says you have to do is ask. 

The new map will soon be available at interstate rest stops and other IDOT facilities.  Don’t forget if you want one to email dot.maps@illinois.gov for a copy. 

Low Dose CT Lung Cancer Screenings are a safe guard for smokers. 

Pana Community Hospital Diagnostic Imaging Manager Cindy Miles says it’s a CT to aid in detecting lung cancer as early as possible in current or former heavy smokers. 

A Low Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening is a viable option for those between 50 and 77 years old that do not have symptoms of lung cancer who have at least 20 pack-years worth of smoking. 

Miles explains what a pack-year is along with some other insurance requirements. 

Miles says if you meet the requirements, most medicare and healthcare plans will cover this program. 

If you’ve survived lung cancer, this program will monitor you in case the cancer returns. Miles says to ask your doctor to see if this program is right for you. 

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

For many years, the belief was that a daily regimen of low-dose, or baby aspirin was recommended for adults as a way to keep heart attacks and strokes at bay. Aspirin also contains anti-inflammatory properties and acts as a blood thinner to prevent clots.  This may be changing however. The US Preventive Services Task Force says that for a certain group, this is no longer the case. Data gathered from recent studies indicate that the risk of internal bleeding from taking an OTC drug daily outweighs the benefits for adults over 60. 

Dr. Darrel Gumm, an OSF HealthCare cardiologist and vice president of the OSF HealthCare cardiovascular service line says that primary prevention is not having a heart attack in the first place.

Dr. Gumm says that aspirin is still recommended most of the time. 

Dr. Gumm syas that while the guidelines may seem new, the research is not.  Medical recommendations and guidelines often change as scientists and physicians continue their studies.

The USPSTF advises that high risk patients under the age of 60 who haven’t had a heart attack and are looking for a primary prevention method consult with a doctor before starting on an aspirin regiment.  He warns not to start or stop any medication, even something as simple as a low-dose aspirin without first consulting with your physician.

Find more information along with links to studies and opportunities at the USPSTF’s website. 

May is the time to grow the mind and body.

It’s also Osteoporosis Awareness Month. 
 
That’s according to St. Louis Dairy Council Nutrition Educator Kelsey Bentlage. She says dairy is the perfect way to grow this spring. 

Bentlage says dairy is especially important at young ages, but dairy also helps with bones, teeth and muscle growth as you age. 

Those nutrients from milk and dairy can help prevent osteoporosis. 

Bentlage has couple a recipes for you to try. She says it should help you and your children get the right amount of dairy. You can find the recipe at stldairycouncil.org. 

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

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the teacher sponsor of the Taylorville High School F-F-A chapter, and 4 of her student leaders, during their weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

Sue Schafer has been an ag teacher at Taylorville High School some 24 years, and told Kiwanis members this year’s T-H-S F-F-A chapter has over 300 members with it formed just after National F-F-A was founded in 1928.  She added over 100 of those 300 students are enrolled in her “Intro to Agriculture” class as a way to teach them—whether they’re country or city kids—where their food, fuel and fiber come from.

Schafer told Kiwanis members the local F-F-A chapter is busy thru-out the year, attending conventions, conferences, and many judging events.  The local chapter has the distinction of having the Reserve National Champion Livestock Team in the entire country.

Cole Paulek, a junior at T-H-S, is the co-president of the Taylorville F-F-A chapter, and told Kiwanis members about his many experiences. 

Sophomore Abby Norris was recently elected Section 16 vice president by the 18 local schools with F-F-A programs. 

 F-F-A member Drew Mickey, a sophomore, spoke about how he’s improved his public speaking skills as a result ot being a member. 

And, sophomore Waylon Paulek was a part of the State Champion Livestock Team.

Kiwanis Key Club liaison Will Perkins reported that he, along with Kiwanis members Dick Wamsley and Chuck Martin, delivered pizzas to the recent Taylorville Junior High Kiwanis Builder's Club meeting, where over 40 students attended.  Perkins added the Builder's Club will again be supporting the Heartland Mini-Hoofs therapy program. 

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 Master Gardeners holding their Plant Sale Plus at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 14th. 

Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi says be there early because plants sell out quick. 

Podeschi provides an overview of the plants available. There’s a wide variety for you to choose from - From perennials to plants that help pollinators. That includes Blue Hostas. 

Podeschi says most plants come from the back yards of master gardeners. 

This is the master gardeners main fundraiser each year. 

The master gardeners will also have a bee keeper from Busy Bee Farm present at 10 in the morning Saturday. Both the plant sale and the pollinators program take place at the University of Illinois Extension Office. 

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

A Coffeen man has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for receipt of child pornography.  30 year old Trey Pease of Coffeen was sentenced to 168 months in prison by US District Judge Sue Myerscough. The government presented evidence that between the summer of 2017 and spring of 2018, Pease both solicited and received multiple images of child pornography from a minor.  According to authorities, Pease conversed with the minor using an online social application.  Pease himself sent an image to the minor. 

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Myerscough specifically found that Pease had caused the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for him and that Pease had used a computer to receive the pornography, and had engaged in a pattern of activity involving prohibited sexual conduct with minors on multiple occasions.

Pease had been indicted in March of 2020 and plead guilty in December of 2021.  He had been detained since his arrest in August of 2020. Statutory penalties for receipt of child pornography are no less than five years and up to 20 years in prison, not less than five years and up to life of supervised release, and no more than a $250,000 fine. 

ISP investigated the case and Assistant US Attorney Tanner K. Jacobs represented the government. 

The case was brought forth as part of Operation Project Safe Childhood.  Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative by the DOJ to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Find out more by visiting www.projectsafechildhood.gov. 

Pawnee School District holding its graduation ceremony Friday, May 20th. 

Superintendent Tim Kratochvil is excited for the class of around 30 students. 

Kratochvil says that there are two potential valedictorians fighting for the honor. 

He’s also proud of a couple students who excelled in trades programs during their high school careers. 

Kratochvil highlights a couple of students who have actively engaged with the arts during their time at Pawnee. 

Kratochvil says that all graduates have stood out in their own way. Learn more at pawneeschools.com.

Kratochvil appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A phone call and an investigation led to a startling discovery in Taylorville on Friday. Animal Control Andy Goodall along with the Taylorville Police Department were called to a house in Taylorville after a complaint of cats. When officers arrived they found nearly 65 cats.  The city ordinance in Taylorville is 3 cats. Goodall says the cats are currently at Christian County Animal Control.

The medical expenses are expected to be over $8,000 and the animal shelter is looking for help.

A vet went out Monday afternoon to check on the cats.  On the surface, Goodall says they look healthy but they still have to check. Goodall says they are really looking for donations of litter, food, and much more. 

Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says no charges are expected to be filed in the incident.  If you want more information or to help out, please contact the Christian County Animal Shelter at (217) 824-5433.

The Community Action Team has been a huge asset not just to Taylorville but the surrounding community.  Led by Police Chief’s Dwayne Wheeler and Kincaid Police Chief DJ Mathon, the Action Team has gone to work making some high profile drug busts and working on cleaning up Christian County.  

The young lady went to turn on McAdam Drive and realized she needed the next road so she swerved out back onto E. Park Street to get on E. Main Cross only to realize that she cut off a Taylorville Police Officer. Officer Rachel Priddy conducted the traffic stop and within a few seconds police were everywhere with lights to make sure nothing crazy happened and to assist in the check.  Nothing was found, and the woman went on her way. 

A typical stop in Taylorville by police who, when I was with them, made several stops for everything from a missing headlight to speeding, to a suspected DUI. Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says that this has been something that he has been trying to fix since he took over as Chief. 

Chief Wheeler says that he is very happy to have the support of the nearby communities. 

Chief Wheeler says the benefits of the Community Action Team greatly outweigh the negatives.

Chief Wheeler says he appreciates the support of citizens who call in with complaints.

Needless to say, Chief Wheeler says the message among drug dealers is getting around, if you’re going to use, stay out of Christian County.

Scooter's Coffee will be holding its monthly “Day of Giving” event Tuesday. This month will go towards the Taylorville High School Kiwanis Key Club.  Scooter's will be giving 20% of their profits today towards the Kiwanis.  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. They encourage you to download their app. 

Next Generation Ministry has a load of concerts in the coming weeks near the Shelbyville area. 

Coordinator for monthly concerts Nickie Beyers says that there’s a concert coming this weekend. 

Next Generation has Divinity Trio booked for June 15th. 

Come July, there’s another act.

Beyers has a website for you to keep track of all their concerts. 

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

Two men have been arrested following several complaints regarding a subject in Tovey selling narcotics.  The Kincaid Police received the calls along with Taylorville Police.  The Community Action Team started an investigation on these calls.  While in Tovey, police from Taylorville, Edinburg, and Kincaid arrested 31-year-old Joshua Wells from Tovey for delivery of methamphetamine without incident. 

In Taylorville, 35-year-old Matthew Kuhns of Taylorville was taken into custody without incident in a parking lot near Walnut and Market Street.  Kuhns was arrested for delivery of meth and possession of meth. Kuhns was recently released from prison for the same offense and is currently on parole. 

The Taylorville Police Department thanked States Attorney Wes Poggenpohl for helping and approving charges as the CAT worked throughout the evening Friday night. TPD thanked all of the citizens as well who called in with their complaints. 

Warm weather means it’s time to head outdoors and experience nature. Yet, the water is still cold and can be dangerous. 

Natural Resources Specialist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Shelbyville Project Brock Key has some words of advice. 

Fishing season is in full swing. 

Campgrounds are also opening up. 

You can make reservations online now.

Learn more at lakeshelbyville.com. Key appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

An Edinburg man has been found not guilty of aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol.  According to Christian County State’s Attorney Wes Poggenpohl, 56-year-old Brad W. Houk of Edinburg was convicted of the offense of driving while license revoked by a Christian County jury on May 5th. After hearing of the evidence, the jury found the defendant not guilty of Aggravated DUI. The driving while license revoked has been set for a sentencing hearing on June 23rd.  

Driving while license revoked is a Class A misdemeanor that can carry a maximum sentence of 364 days in county jail.  The charge does carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 days in jail or 240 hours of community service, due to the revocation based on a prior DUI conviction. 

The case was prosecuted by Alyce Grigsby, Assistant State’s Attorney, while Houk was represented by Attorney Monroe McWard. 

It’s good to celebrate. However, Shelby County Community Services Drug Abuse Program Coordinator Natalie Cloe says to be mindful of those around you. 

Cloe wants everyone to know exactly what problematic drinking looks like.

Marijuana use can also be problematic. 

However, Cloe does not consider them to be gateway drugs. She uses another word – trauma.

Learn more at sccsil.org. Cloe appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville.

The Kincaid Police Department is congratulating a new K9 Graduate.  Aiden Merker graduated from the Illinois State Police K9 Academy class #85.  Merker is a Taylorville High School graduate who currently works for the Kincaid Police Department as a K9 officer.  According to Kincaid Police Chief DJ Mathon, Merker has been a great asset to the department since he started last year. Mathon says that they have added the canine position to help combat the drug abuse problem in the Kincaid area.  The canine will also be used to help the Community Action Team fight drug crimes throughout the county. 

With the world’s senior citizen population growing, criminals are taking more and more advantage of seniors by scamming them.  In some instances, senior citizens can lose their lifetime savings and don’t really have hope of ever getting that money back. 

According to the internet crime complaint center, an elder fraud report in 2021 showed that over 92,000 victims over the age of 60 reported losses of $1.7 billion, a 74% increase in losses from 2020.  Romance scams saw the most loss with over $432 million.  This isn’t just a national issue.  Illinois residents reported total losses of almost $50 million placing them 11th in the state-wide ranking. 

Experts believe more seniors get hit because they are polite and trusting and have difficulty saying no. Others may be lonely or may have diminished physical or mental capacity.  They are also less likely to report the crime out of shame, and are often financially stable and own their homes. 

Seniors are encouraged to consider the following to avoid victimization.  Experts say to shred credit card receipts and old bank statements, close unused credit card or bank accounts, don’t give out personal information over the phone, never respond to an offer you don’t understand, and talk over investments with a trusted friend, family member, or advisor. The FBI also encourages you to require all plans and purchases to be in writing, don’t pay in advance for services, don’t pay for services via prepaid gift cards or cryptocurrency, and resist the urge to act quickly or secretly. 

If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or know a senior who may be, report the fraud to the FBI at ic3.gov.  DOJ provides an Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11.  You can also call the Springfield hotline at 217-522-9675. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held a drive-thru donation day benefiting the Taylorville Food Pantry at the Miller Media Group front parking lot Saturday, May 7th. 

Kiwanis member Dennis Barnhard says things went well as the day progressed. 

The Kiwanis Club picked up multiple cash donations as well as non-perishable food items. 

Treasurer of the Kiwanis Club Blaine Cornwell says this event is as important as ever. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club will visit studios at 918 E Park in Taylorville the next two Saturdays. They welcome your non-perishable food items and monetary donations. They will take the items donated straight to the Taylorville Food Pantry. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club, the Food Pantry, and the Miller Media Group thank all those who donated in the club's drive-thru donation day. 

Some 140 people gathered Friday night to celebrate the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce's 115th year of service to the community, and also celebrate WTIM's 70th Anniversary, during the Annual Banquet at the Pillars Event Center.

The event was fully paid for by WTIM so that all proceeds from ticket sales could be split, with 50-percent going to the Chamber, 25-percent each going to the Taylorville Public Schools Foundation and the Taylorville Food Pantry.

Ticket sales provided the Chamber with three-thousand 40-dollars, while the Public Schools Foundation and Food Pantry were each given fifteen-hundred 20 dollars.

Taylorville native and Nashville recording artist Gracia Harrison performed during the social hour and dinner.

Outgoing Chamber president Sarah Van Huss told the gathering the organization now has a new Executive Director and Office Manager.

Van Huss read some of the nomination form for this year's Chamber Volunteer of the Year award winner Lance Nagle.

Chamber President Sarah Van Huss read a portion of the nomination form for this year's Chamber Boss of the Year, Betty Asmussen.

And, WTIM president Randal J. Miller read part of his nomination form for this year's Chamber Citizens of the Year, Joe and Myrna Hauser.

Myrna Hauser was speechless.

Chamber president Sarah Van Huss told those in attendance the Chamber's membership has continued to grow, and expand its connection with local businesses.

Van Huss added this year's Chamber Chillifest is full steam ahead.

The WTIM management, on-air and sales staff were part of the gala Friday night.

Chamber volunteers welcomed all those as they entered the Pillars Event Center Friday night.

Audio Dimensions Entertainment Service provided audio and video for the night, headed by Neil Hohenstein.  Here was his set-up.

His company also spent countless hours putting together a 37-minute video on the history of WTIM Radio that was shown at the end of the night.  Hohenstein and Addison Vocks did the video work, including editing 4 video interviews with several people involved in WTIM's history, as part of the video.  It'll be uploaded to the WTIMTV youtube page.

Ceremonies in Springfield were held on Thursday morning to honor those killed in the line of duty over the last year. 11 men and women were honored during the annual police memorial ceremony. Those killed include Chicago Police Officer Ella French, Pontoon Beach Officer Tyler Timmins, and Champaign Officer Christopher Oberheim. Secretary of State Jesse White thanked the many men and women who gave their life protecting Illinoisans. 

With prayers being read, bagpipes being played, and state officials speaking including White, Governor JB Pritzker, Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, and many others, Comptroller Susana Mendoza, whose brother is a Chicago police detective, encouraged family members telling them they were not alone.

The names of fallen officers in Illinois are etched on the official memorial on the State Capitol Lawn. 

Gardening isn’t as easy when it’s wet and cold. 

Unless you are utilizing a rain garden. University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator Andrew Holsinger says that it’s a great way to garden with native plants.

Holsinger describes what that looks like. 

There is a rain garden at the extension office in Taylorville you can check out to gain a framework for your potential garden. 

While you’ll have a beautiful garden, you will also positively impact the pollinators. 

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

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. 

Community Health Director of Taylorville Memorial Hospital Darin Buttzsays that it’s okay to not be okay. 

Regional Director of Behavioral Health for Memorial Health Amber Olson reiterates that message. 

Buttz says that Memorial performed a community needs assessment and found mental health is at the top of the community’s need. He directs you to the hospital’s emotional support line at 217-588-5509.

Olson is focused on mental health of children. She has some signs and symptoms of struggling children you can pay attention to. 

Learn more at memorial.health. Olson and Buttz appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce announcing the winners of the Spring Swing golf event occurring last Saturday. 

Executive Director Linda Allen says first prizes goes to “Put in the hole!”

Second place went to “Done Fore.”

Third place belongs to the “Squirrels.” 

The contest also gave away a beach cart filled with booze. 

Allen appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is starting its 3rd consecutive year of hosting Drive-Thru Donation Days in the Miller Media Group front parking lot to benefit the Taylorville Food Pantry, starting this Saturday.

2 Kiwanis members will be collecting non-perishable food and monetary donations, from 9am to 1pm this Saturday, as well as May 14th and 21st.

Thru the generosity of the community, the Taylorville Kiwanis Club has been among the organizations collecting the most equivalent number of pounds of food for the Food Pantry each year.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club’s efforts are part of its mission to benefit children and youth in the Taylorville community, and 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.   

The Quad County Veterans Group and a host of Pana church clergy, co-sponsored the National Day of Prayer service Thursday afternoon at Pana's First United Methodist Church.

About 50 people attended, hearing prayers for the church, government, the military, education, health care, family, media and business.

A contingent of veterans and Boy Scouts presented the colors to start the service.  Lucy Kennedy sang the National Anthem.

Pastor Dave Altman from the Pana Christian Church gave the invocation.

The 2 groups sponsored a supper for those attending, following Pana's National Day of Prayer service Thursday afternoon.

The Taylorville Tornado soccer team will be hosting a 4v4 soccer tournament to help raise funds for the Soccer team and the tornado turf campaign.  Taylorville High School soccer coach Tim Karbach says they’ve been doing this event for three years and it’s played like a 3-on-3 tournament with no goalies.

Karbach always hopes that this brings more people to see just how awesome soccer really can be.

Karbach says that he is excited for this season with some camps and training going on. He has multiple divisions for this soccer tournament. 

The tournament will be taking place, June 25th with play starting at 9. Some sponsors of the event include TCCU, People's Bank, First National, Angelo's, Fry Construction, Craggs Realtor, and Karma Salon. For more information, contact Tim Karbach at tkarbach93@gmail.com. 

Shelter Insurance Agency Owner Mark Phillips does more than sell insurance. 

Phillips largely focuses on educating clients so they can make the best insurance decision possible. 

Phillips wants to inform the public about the benefits of life insurance. As a young adult, his father passed away and left a life insurance policy to his mother. Phillips says that made a huge difference in his life. 

You can find Phillips on the Taylorville Square.

Learn more at shelterinsurance.com. Phillips appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

While Illinois is not known for its hurricanes, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency or IEMA wants you to be prepared just in case you travel south. This week marks National Hurricane Preparedness Week and with hurricane season spanning from June 1st-November 30th, it’s important to know what you should do if you find yourself caught in severe weather.  IEMA Spokesperson Kevin Sur says one of the most important things you should do is have your phone charged.

Sur spent time in New York City during Hurricane Ida and said that many vacationers and visitors did not have a way to receive warnings because the city was without power.

Other things you can do include updating emergency plans and enhancing your preparedness kit supplies, subscribing to your vacation destination’s emergency alerts, familiarizing yourself with evacuation zones for all travel locations, knowing your hurricane risks including inland locations, practice cybersecurity making sure all mobile devices use multifactor authentication and check FEMA’s website for more hurricane preparedness information. 

IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau says to take time during good weather to be prepared for bad.  Find out more by visiting www.ready.illinois.gov. 

Christian County YMCA Director Bruce Blanshan is excited about Healthy Kids Day Saturday, May 14th. 

Lots of different organizations and business will appear at the event taking place at the YMCA from 9 to 11 a.m. 

Blanshan says that the goal is to have as many kids come to the Y that day as possible. 

May 15th is the start of the Y’s next membership drive – Jump Into Summer.

Learn more at ccymca.org. Blanshan appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A Tower Hill man was found guilty of unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. 33-year-old Jeremy W. Winter was convicted of the offense of Unlawful Possession of a weapon by a felon by a Christian County jury.  The jury deliberated for 15 minutes before returning with a verdict. Christian County State’s Attorney Wes Poggenpohl prosecuted the case.  Poggenpohl thanked the Pana Police Department for their work in handling the case. 

Unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon is a non-probationable class 2 felony that has a sentencing range of 3-14 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.  The sentencing hearing is set for June 23rd, 2022 in front of Judge Jeff Delong. 

The National Association of Letter Carriers holding the 30th annual “Stamp Out Hunger” food drive. 

Letter carriers from all over the country are organizing food drives to tackle hunger Saturday, May 14th. 

Taylorville Food Pantry co-coordinator Amy Hagen says it’s a huge help every year. 

Regionally, the Central Illinois Food Bank appreciates the help. Public Relations Manager Tim Kirsinikas says letter carriers are the backbones to the communities the food bank serves.

Hagen is thankful for a group of retired letter carriers who participate in the food drive. 

Krisinikas says that the need is just as great as before, if not more with rising inflation at grocery stores. 

If you want to help, make sure you leave non-perishable food in your mail box Saturday morning on May 14th. Letter carriers will deliver the food to the local pantry for you. 

Kirsinikas and Hagen appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

U.S. Representative Rodney Davis did not mince words when asked about the leak of the Supreme Court’s opinion of Roe v. Wade – The leak is unfathomable. 

While speculating, Rep. Davis believes a court clerk made the leak. He hopes they are held accountable. 

As for the why, Rep. Davis thinks whoever did this wanted to put pressure on the nation’s highest court. 

As for the ruling itself, which is just a draft at the moment, Rep. Davis calls it a win for pro-life advocates. 

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

Still time to register for the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Fore! Golf Outing. 

It’s from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7th at the Lake Shore Golf Course. Auxiliary Coordinator Debbie Johnson explains how you can sign up. Registration is $90 per golfer. 

The Auxillary has worked hard on this event. 

Half the proceeds of the event go directly to the auxiliary to help them fulfill their pledge to the hospital. The auxiliary’s current pledge is for updated lab equipment. 

Johnson wants to give a shout-out to the golf outing’s sponsors. 

Learn more on the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Facebook page. Johnson appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County YMCA will be hosting the Y's annual Healthy Kids Day on Saturday May 14th.  This event encourages families to take a moment to help kids be kids and set them up for a summer of success.  The event is sponsored by Howard Johnson by Wyndham and will feature activities such as various activities, program registration, and drawings to motivate and teach families how to develop and maintain healthy routines at home.  

Healthy Kids Day is celebrating the 30th anniversary in 2022.  The Y hopes to use the day to get more kids moving and learning, creating healthy habits they can continue while they're away from the classroom. With kids out of school, some hurdles can prevent them from healthy choices. Studies show that kids gain weight twice as fast during summer than during the school year.  The Y offers the following tips to help families develop healthy habits this summer.

Make sure kids get at least five servings of fruits and veggies each day. One suggestion that dietitians make is to try at least one bite of a new fruit or vegetable at least once a month. The summer is a good time to read with your children.  Even 30 minutes a day can go a long way so the Y encourages everyone to go to local libraries and create a family reading challenge.  Another tip is to get moving and play together.  Playing can really help you get going and you can build models, tear apart old equipment and put it back together again or develop theater productions.

Sleep can be an important factor as well. and doctors recommend 10-12 hours of sleep a day for children ages 5-12 and 7-8 hours per night for adults.  Sleep can maintain your immune system, metabolism, mood, memory, and learning. 

The Christian County YMCA's Healthy Kids Day will take place at 900 McAdam Dr. in Taylorville from 9-11 and features fun, active play, and educational activities and various businesses will be there with activities free swimming, and snacks.  For more information, contact Christian County YMCA at 217-287-7271 or visit www.ccymca.org. 

The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is raising awareness about arson as this week marks Arson awareness week.  In 2021, the OSFM arson division closed 41 cases with an arrest. the theme for this week's arson awareness week is Arson in Homeless Communities: Engagement-Education-Outreach.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, municipal fire departments in the US responded to an average of 52,260 intentionally set structure fires between 2014-2018. These fires caused an estimated 400 civilian deaths, 950 civilian injuries, and $815 million in direct property damage each year. 3 out of every 5 intentional structure fires occured in residential properties and most of those fires involved homes.  In 2021, OSFM Arson special agents responded to 1,053 investigations and canine teams assisted in 202 investigations. 

State Fire Marshal Matt Perez says that he encourages fire departments to work together with law enforcement partners to educate members of their communities about the consequences of arson.  Arson can affect not only homes or businesses but can spread and impact a larger area. 

Some tips that can help reduce the risk of arson include keeping leaves, firewood, overgrown brush, and shurbbery away from buildings. You can also keep doors and windows locked when a building is unoccupied. Make sure to board up abandoned buildings.  Store all flammable liquids, report suspicious activity, and if you suspect a child is setting fires, notify the poper authorities.  Keep matches out of reach and out of sight of children.  If you know or suspect that an arson crime has been committed, contact your local fire or police department.

A statewide arson hotline can be reached at 800-252-2947.  Citizens may anonymously provide information about suspicious fires that have occured or may occur.  To find out more information visit www.sfm.illinois.gov. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard reports on local Kiwanis activities benefiting children and youth, during their weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

Kiwanis members learned that last Saturday’s Pancake and Sausage Day at the Moose Lodge, served over 300 people and so far has grossed the club nearly 28-hundred dollars, with receipts from additional ticket sales yet to be turned in.  The Kiwanis Club thanks the Taylorville community who turned out in record numbers to enjoy Kiwanis pancakes and sausage with proceeds benefiting local Kiwanis projects for children and youth.

Kiwanis Builders’ Club liaison Will Perkins reported that the Taylorville Junior High Kiwanis Builders Club has some 42 members as it nears the end of the school year, with Kiwanis members delivering pizza to the club on Tuesday.

Kiwanis Park co-chair Larry Kemner reported that the replacement of the Kiwanis Park pavilion concrete, as well as a Kiwanis work day, both have been delayed due to rainy weather.

Kiwanis Spiritual Values chair Dick Wamsley reminded the club of the annual Prayer Luncheon May 24th when the “Outstanding Spiritual Leader” of the community will be named. 

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.     

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 evening 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. Jim Prescott, with Heartland Greenway says that it is a way to have normal hours. 

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

May is Foster Parent Appreciation Month.  Foster families across the state open their hearts and homes to children from all walks of life to provide them a temporary and safe haven to vulnerable children. Illinois DCFS is encouraging the public to become licensed foster parents. Children are placed in the temporary care of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services by courts when it is determined that families cannot safely care for them.  DCFS works with the family to make the positive changes necessary to reunite with their children.

Today there are just under 21,000 children living in foster care in the state with 8,600 in foster families, 11,300 with relatives, and 600 in group homes and institutions. Illinois DCFS Director Marc D. Smith says foster families help children get a stable home and strong connections to school, friends, siblings, and other family members to thrive. 

Foster homes are needed for sibling groups, adolescents, African American and Latino children, children with special medical needs, teenage mothers and their babies, and LGBTQ children. To learn more about the children available visit www.greenlightfamilyservices.org/heartgalleryofil/. For those who make the commitment to being a foster parent require a serious commitment of time, energy, stability, and love. Foster families work with DCFS and private agencies including birth families, counselors, physicians, and the courts to reunite children with their families whenever possible. 

Licensing to become a foster parent can take up to six months. Foster families must participate in a social assessment and home inspection, complete training on foster care and the needs of children who are in foster care, complete a criminal background check of all household members, be financially stable, and complete a health screening.  Parents must be at least 21 years old and can be married, in a civil union, single, divorced, or separated.  They can also work full-or part-time, go to school, or be a stay at home parent.  To learn more visit www2.illinois.gov/dcfs.  Thank you to all the foster parents from Regional Radio News. 

 Lake Land College is hosting its Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 133th at 6 PM. More than 750 students will receive degrees and certificates with 280 graduates expected at the Field House for the ceremony. Todd and Ali Rauch will be recognized with Alumnus Achievement Awards for their continued efforts in making a difference in their jobs and community. 

Bambi Jones will also be recognized as ICCTA Outstanding Full-time Faculty Member.  According to the press release, “(Jones) took the imitative to develop new strategies in teaching math, and understood the completion of developmental math sequences as a barrier to retention and success for community college students.”  Jones established math literacy at Lake Land and it leading the math course initative between college and district high schools.  The Illinois Community College Board has since recognized her for her efforts. 

On the day of commencement, the doors of the Field House will open at 4:30 PM with overflow available in the Luther Student Center Theater.  Parking on campus is free with parking lots A and B being closest to the Field House. Lake Land will also stream the graduation live on Friday, May 13th 2022 at 6 PM at lakelandcollege.edu. 

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening. The 7th-grade girls basketball team was recognized as the youth of the month for their state championship. They were also announced as the Marshal for the 4th of July parade. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry awarded them with a plaque and praised their season during his Mayoral update. He is also looking for some volunteers for the flags for Armed Forces Day.

The board tabled the ordinance granting a special use for the development and operation of a 1,125 Megawatt Solar Energy Facility. Attorney Rocci Romano explained that they would need some more information on it moving forward.

Under motions, the board approved advertising an office level 3 position in the police department and two full-time dispatchers. A motion for the lift station maintenance contracts was heavily discussed.  The motion had been tabled previously but found itself back on the agenda. Aldermen Megan Bryant and Steve Dorchinecz asked why it was on the agenda. Mayor Barry explained why it was back on the agenda saying that ultimately he has the final say in what goes on and off of it.

Alderman Bryant asked that in the future, emails be sent out so that they can see when something gets added back to the agenda. 

Also approved was a special event permit for the QB club for May 13-14, the Taylorville High School Graduation Parade on May 20th, a PowWow from June 3-5,Taylorville Dog Days on September 10th, and the Kiwanis Kids Day on September 23rd. approved the draft of the cannabis ordinance and confirm the May 16th, public hearing date to consider it with a vote of 5-3 with Aldermen Kathy Driskell, Steve Dorchinecz, and Chris Skultety voting no.

The board approved payment of bills and heard from Pat Kretzer who questioned how the board was spending money from the BDD. The next city council meeting is set for May 16th. 

Fire safety is always on the mind of the Shelbyville Fire Department. 

Shelbyville Firefighter Matt Lewis says meeting with your family can make the difference. 

Of course, Lewis never wants your home to catch fire. He says there are many things you can do to make your home safer. 

Shelbyville Fire Department also says you should prepare yourself and the local fire department when you are burning yard debris and garbage on your property. 

Lewis also says Shelbyville Fire Department offers special signs to make sure they can properly spot your house should they ever need to come to it. 

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

Taylorville City Council is set to meet Monday evening, May 2nd, at 7 PM at the Municipal building in Taylorville. The 7th Grade Girls Basketball team will be recognized as youth of the month. The board will also approve some ordinances for the solar energy facility, a couple front end loaders, and an ordinance with the Business Development District. 

Under motions, the board will look at advertising an office level 3 position in the police department, two full time dispatchers, the lift station maintenance contracts, a special events permit for the QB club for May 13-14, Taylorville High School Graduation Parade on May 20th, a PowWow from June 3-5, Taylorville Dog Days on September 10th, Kiwanis Kids Day, on September 23rd, and approve the draft of the cannabis ordinance and confirm the May 16th, public hearing date to consider it. 

Under committee reports, the board will discuss chillifest, budgets, and the treasurer’s report. The board will also approve street closures for memorial day, approve payment of bills, and hear from the city attorney, and Mayor Bruce Barry. 

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

Living Alternatives is a Pregnancy Resource Center located in Shelbyville. Jared Buton is heavily involved with the 501(c)3 non-profit. 

Buton says Living Alternatives is there for anyone experiencing a pregnancy. 

Living Alternatives provides many different services. 

Buton says Living Alternatives could not thrive without community support. 

Learn more at pregnancyresourcecenter.org. Buton appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from studios in downtown Shelbyville.

A cold and blustery Sunday afternoon didn’t stop some from coming out in support of Taylorville’s first colors of pride festival.  Cara Otey, President of the Colors of Pride group at the High School says they are excited to be able to give exposure to the community.

Eric Farden, Social and Emotional Counselor and group co-advisor for the event was happy to see so many come out to the event.

Otey says they did laps around the track to get sponsors which will help the group.  This is a new program and they are raising money so they can do exciting activities in the future.  

There were games, stickers, music, and a lot of pride Sunday afternoon in Taylorville. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. 

A Taylorville man found himself back in court in connection with a womans death in 2019. 30-year-old Bradley Jenkins was arrested in Christian County late last week by US Marshals in connection with the death of Allissa Martin.  Jenkins is facing the same charge he faced before; third-degree felony domestic assault.  He appeared in court in St. Louis on Friday, where he was granted a $5,000 bond which he posted and was released. 

Jenkins and Martin had attended a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game in 2019.  An argument ensued and police say they have a cell phone video of the argument. Martin fell from the parking garage and passed away from her injuries. Initial charges had been dropped but new prosecutors have taken over the case and refiled the charges. 

US Marshal’s arrested Jenkins in Taylorville on Tuesday, April 26th after charges had been refiled on April 19th.  He was moved to St. Louis on April 28th and was in court on the 29th. Jenkins' next court appearance is scheduled for May 6th.