PayCourt, a leading government collections company, has been recognized as one of the Best Workplaces in Illinois for 2024, earning an outstanding 97% score in a comprehensive workplace assessment. This prestigious award is based on evaluations of leadership, culture, employee satisfaction, and engagement through a combination of employer questionnaires and employee surveys.

CEO Rick Bonitzer recognizes the rarity of a collection agency receiving this honor, emphasizing PayCourt’s focus on employee well-being since its founding in 2010. The company has maintained a zero-employee attrition rate in recent years—an exceptional achievement in the accounts recovery industry. PayCourt has also been named one of the Best Places to Work in Collections every year since 2019.

PayCourt’s success is bolstered by senior leadership’s unique experience, including a former Circuit Court Clerk as Senior Vice President, which provides valuable insight into the challenges faced by courthouses. This enables the company to tailor its consumer-friendly, digital-first services to meet the needs of government clients effectively. PayCourt’s customer service excellence is reflected in a 4.9/5.0 Google rating from nearly 900 reviews and its receipt of the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for ethics.

Serving over three-quarters of Illinois counties, along with clients in Indiana and Louisiana, PayCourt’s commitment to professionalism, compliance, and transparency continues to set it apart in the industry.

For more information, visit www.PayCourt.com.

Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) is offering a unique opportunity for those interested in exploring a career in aviation maintenance. The college will host Aviation Maintenance 101 on Tuesday, Oct. 15, from 5-7 p.m. at the Levi, Ray and Shoup, Inc. Aviation Center, located at 815 South Airport Drive in Springfield.

The free event will allow participants to engage in hands-on activities, including working with sheet metal, electrical wiring, and an aircraft piston engine. Attendees will also have the chance to start a jet engine. Dr. Nancy Sweet, dean of LLCC’s Workforce Institute, emphasized the event’s interactive nature: “Participants can actually roll up their sleeves and do hands-on activities in our hangar,” she said.

Registration for the event is open at www.llcc.edu/aviation. Additionally, informational sessions about aviation maintenance careers will be held on Oct. 29 at 3:30 p.m. and Dec. 3 at 9:30 a.m., where prospective students can tour LLCC’s facilities and learn how to get started in this high-demand, well-paying field.

The Village of Strasburg has named its 2024 Volunteer of the Year.  Sue Bowers was recognized as Volunteer of the Year.  Her dedication to organizing the 150th Anniversary Celebration of Strasburg was noted as an inspiration to all.  Bowers was nominated by several community members for her dedication, hard work, creativity, and positive attitude. 

The celebration itself was a success with many hours of planning behind the scenes and while there were challenges, Bowers remained calm, cool, and collected.  The award was presented to Sue during the Community Weiner Roast held on Friday, September 20th, at the Strasburg Park.  Mayor Cinda Held presented the award to Bowers.  

The 31st Annual Oconee Sacred Heart Parish Fall Family Festival got things started Sunday morning at 11 a.m. with family as the focus. Starting this Sunday, September 29th, the Oconee Fall Festival will return on both October 6th and October 13th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m..

The Oconee Fall Festival features activities like: pumpkin painting, hay rides, putt putt golf, the 'Corn Pit,' live music, and much more. Once you've worked up an appetite, the Fall Festival has plenty of delicious goodies to enjoy including barbeque, ribbon fries, and baked goods found at the 'Apple Shack' or served by the Parish itself.

Zetta Wolf, a community member and volunteer for the Oconee Sacred Heart Parish Fall Family Festival, discusses what the festival has to offer.

Crusin' 98.3 WSVZ broadcast live from the 31st Annual Oconee Fall Festival. For more information and the schedule of events, visit www.oconeefallfestival.com or their Facebook page.

Peoples Bank and Trust and WTIM Your Information Station have announced their students of the month for September. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes.

Students of the month are as follows: 5th Grader Kamrey Turner, 6th grader Daisie Williamson, 7th grader Dilla Jordan, and 8th grader Brylan Fortner.

Left to Right:  PBT REPRESENTATIVE JEFF GRIMMETT; 8TH GRADE BRYLAN FORTNER; 7TH GRADE DILILLA JORDAN; 6TH GRADE DAISIE WILLIAMSON; 5TH GRADE KAMREY TURNER

The Lions of Strasburg and 32 Below are set to host the first annual Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 5th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 101 South Walnut Street in Strasburg. The Lions Club is involved in many community upkeep and development projects and during 2023 raised almost $12,000 for local organizations. 

Mitch Stewart, Lions Club of Strasburg President saw the great turnout for the German meals served at Strasburg's 150th anniversary celebration and the group came together to form Oktoberfest.

Stewart speaks about some of the initiatives the Lions Club has driven, specifically, Blessings in a Backpack and the Mary Bryant Home in Springfield. 

Learn more about the club and the event at www.facebook.com/StrasburgLionsClub.

Mitch Stewart appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Lake Land College will host Laker Visit Day on Monday, Oct. 14 from 9 AM until 12 PM in the Luther Student Center.  The event is designed for prospective students to learn about Lake Land College and the resources available to guide students to success.  

Attendees will tour campus with a student ambassador, who will share information from a student perspective.  Participants will also meet with faculty to learn more about specific programs. Representatives from many services, including counseling services, career services, student accommodations, student wellness, TRIO student support services, and more will be available to provide information and answer attendees’ questions.  

Attendees are also welcome to bring parents or guardians to the event.  A session will be offered to provide information relevant to parents or guardians of future Lakers.  Pam Hartke, Associate Dean of Recruitment & Enrollment Management says that there is no better way for future students to learn what it’s like to attend Lake Land College.  Even if it’s only for a few classes, Hartke says the event is perfect for you.  

For more information, or to register, visit the Lake Land College Visit page, and LakeLandCollege.edu/visit. 

A Taylorville woman was sentenced to three years of probation on September 26, 2024, for embezzling $600,000 from the Christian County YMCA. Lori Zeitler, 65, who worked at the YMCA for 32 years, was also ordered to pay full restitution. She had pleaded guilty in March to five counts of wire fraud.

According to evidence presented at the hearing, Zeitler stole at least $292,336 from the CC YMCA while serving in various roles, including bookkeeper. Her theft was uncovered after the organization switched to internet-based accounting software. U.S. District Judge Sue E. Myerscough said that in addition to the financial loss, Zeitler's actions severely damaged the trust between the YMCA and the community.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sierra Senor-Moore looks to the impact on the YMCA, stating that the stolen funds could have been used for facility improvements and community programs. FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson also condemned Zeitler’s long-term pattern of theft, stressing the importance of safeguarding public trust.

The case was investigated by the FBI's Springfield Field Office, the Taylorville Police Department, and the Illinois State Police.

A cease and desist has been filed by the Christian County Board against Steve and Sherri Craggs of Fur Love Charitable Resale Shop in Taylorville, asking that they stop using the County’s name for advertising, fundraising, or other purposes and that Fur Love remove any and all references to the county on any advertising, Facebook page, and other documents or sources. 

Craggs said in his response that there has been a history of correspondence between Fur Love and the Christian County Board concerning, the creation of the shop and local fundraising for animal welfare. During a 2022 executive committee meeting, Craggs, Fur Love, and other Christian County groups requested $50,000 in ARPA funds to expand and improve the Christian County Animal Control Facility, which was denied by the board. Upon receiving the denial, Craggs explained that the board's message was that if the funds were raised, the groups should return with the “money in hand”. The project would be reassessed. 

While Craggs respectfully disagrees with the cease and desist, he states that Christian County overwhelmingly supports the Animal Shelter Project and the aid coming to the CCAC. Fur Love and the local community have raised approximately $250,000, Craggs continues, saying the offer remains to provide the funds for the animal control facility to expand, renovate, or rebuild. 

The full open letter to the board:

Dear Board Members: This correspondence serves as an open letter to the Board Member and Christian County public, to address the recent denial by Christian Gounty to accept $250,000.00 to renovate, expand, or build a new animal control center. It addresses the history of Fur Love's creation, local citizen's subsequent fund raising for animal welfare, and prior communications with the Christian County Board regarding the same, We hope this clears up any confusion that exists and look forward to sharing community updates in the future.

History of Board Discussions Leading to Fur Love's Creation. On October 3. 2022_, an Executive Committee meeting was held at the Christian County Board Meeting room. Present at the meeting were: Committee members - Craig Corzine, (Executive Committee Chairman), Ray Koonce, David Pucceti, Clint Epley, and Bryan Sharp. Matt Wells (Christian County Board Chairman), Animal Control Director, Sheri Anderson, Stephen Craggs, Linda Curtin, Clint Epley, Elizabeth Heil, and several members of the public were also present.

Several Christian County groups and individuals came together to request $50,000 in ARPA funds to help expand the Christian County Animal Control Facility: Representatives Included the Taylorville Animal Control Officer (Andy Goodall), Capital Development committee for CeAC, and Friends of Christian County Animal Control. Over 1,000 Christian County voters' signatures had been obtained over past several years In support of the animal control expansion.

The Christian County Animal Control Building was overcrowded, understaffed (see staffing chart attached), and dilapidated. Broken and aging components of the building. such as the faulty gate, had posed a health hazard to the animals, preventing animal care and maintenance when it malfunctioned. Homeless animals were being rejected from the facility when the kennels were full.

 The County declined to provide ARPA funds. And so a conversation ensued. Future leadership of Fur Love Inquired as to whether or not the County Board would accept funds for the animal control building, if the money could be raised through local fundraising efforts. The board members present specifically advised that if the funds could be raised, that we should return with the money in hand and the project would be re-addressed; but the county wouldn't pay for it.

This specific advice has been confirmed by then Executive Committee Chairman, Craig Corzine, and then Christian County Board Chairman, Matt Wells. And while this was not the only meeting held at the committee level, it was the most significant.

A copy of the committee minutes/notes are enclosed.

On October 11th a Highway/Building/Grounds/Environmental/Zoning and Welfare: Committee Meeting occurred. In that meeting Sherr Craggs gave her directors report which stated, "Efforts to expand the CCAC facility is on-going and an outside committee, ASP (Animal Shelter Project) has been formed. She highlighted members who make up the group. And the need for the automatic gate was again discussed.

So we respectfully disagree with the cease and desist letter. Very different conversations were held at the committee level.? Regardless, the Christian County community overwhelmingly supports this project. Pursuant to Initial committee discussions, Fur Love, with assistance By the extraordinary local community, has now raised approximately $250,000.00 to benefit the animal control facility. We offer to provide the funds for use of an animal control expansion, renovation, or new build. History of Fur Love. Fur Love was created after the committee meetings: Residents of Christian County have generously donated thousands of used gently used items for resale, bringing shoppers to downtown Taylorville, Illinois. Additional community members volunteered countless hours of labor, sorting and accepting donations for resale to the Christian County public. Thanks to the public's efforts - and to volunteer staff - over a quarter million dollars was raised for the animal control facility in less than two years! 

Even more exciting, it quickly became clear that additional community benefits followed. Selling donated items at a reduced price didn't just help save money for animals. Thanks to enthusiastic community involvement, the store helped the local Christian County's elderly, disabled, fixed income, and young families by providing low-priced clothing, fumiture, and other gently used goods at a deeply discounted price. The entire community is benefiting.

Locals come in for a cup of coffee and browse donated books. Young children pick up school bookbags. Young parents pick up donated bunk beds. Teachers pick up Items: for their classrooms. Hobbyists pick up antiques. Broke college kids pick up clothes.

We are so humbled and overjoyed at the community response. We welcome and Invite the Board Members to come to see the beautiful facility that your community - your voters - have created through sheer hard work. We will make you a cup of coffee, too, Because this is not an issue of politics. It's an issue of community: Our goal is to raise funds for the benefit of Taylorville and the surrounding Christian County area.

Animal Control vs. Animal Shelters. On September 17, 2024, the few Christian County board members present rejected Fur Love's offer to provide $259,000.00 for benefit of the animal control facility. Barely a quorum was present that day, Needless to say, we are deeply disappointed. The Board never even bothered to say thank you to Fur Love volunteers - its voters! - for their hard work, to eam and save money for the benefit of Christian county animals. Which is fine, we suppose. In refusing the money, the board, in particular Bryan Sharp, hinted that "animal control" facilities are different from an animal shelter.

Putting aside that normal folk use the words "animal shelter" and "animal control facility* interchangeably in every-day conversation, the Board's explanation remains imprecise at best. While, if being highly technical, there are some legislative differences, Illinois Law has passed an Animal Control Statute 510 ILCS 5/1 et. seo, The Act has made it clear that different words (and buildings) may be used to describe animal control facilities, stating:

"Pound" or "animal control facility" may be used interchangeably and mean any facility approved by the Administrator for the purpose of enforcing this Act and used as a shelter for seized, stray, homeless, abandoned, or unwanted dogs or other animals.

510 ILCS 5/2.18. (Emphasis provided.) Put simply, animal control facility means "any facility" can be "used as a shelter." The Act uses the word "shelter" approximately 15 more times in the statute. 

Additionally, there has never been any confusion that Fur Love has been raising funds to renovate, build, or expand the animal control facility, even when people use the word "shelter" Instead of "animal control" every day conversation. The Fur Love project was proposed to better house, vaccinate, spay/neuter, and adopt out animals. In this way, non-profit shelters and animal control are quite similar, because animal control's duties include, by statute:

return, adoption, transfer to rescues or other animal shelters, and any other means of ensuring live outcomes of homeless dogs and cats and through sterilization, community outreach, impoundment of pets at risk and any other humane means deemed necessary to address strays and ensure live outcomes for dogs and cats that are not a danger to the community or suffering Iremediably, 510 ILGS 5/5. Again, though. In case there is any remaining confusion, please allow this letter to confirm that Fur Love is offering to provide $250,000.00 to renovate, expand, or build a new animal control facility.

We believe the County will find that increased energy efficiency in newer buildings will save it money in utilities. The Increased space should save money, long-term, by allowing animal control to house - and therefore spay and neuter - more animals, reducing the number of strays, long term, that the county has to deal with. It will reduce rabies in the community by having greater resources to address outbreaks. It will have more room to adopt out pets to Christian County families. Simply stated, this plan will directly benefit the local community. The Board has sent a cease and desist letter. If the Board does not want the quarter million dollars, we will respect that decision and plan to distribute the funds for other Christian County benefit (animal welfare and other civic projects on the condition that it is for the benefit of the community). Specifically, the money will be gifted, granted. or otherwise used for the betterment of Christian County families. At the end of the day. Fur Love was created for the community, not polities, Together, we can make our beautiful home even brighter. Fur Love wants to thank the wonderful residents of Taylorville and the surrounding communities for all of their kind thoughts and generous donations for animal welfare. While the Board may sadly decline Fur Love's offer and reject the use of these funds for the benefit of the homeless animals at animal control, Fur Love will continue to save money for some other animal shelter in the future. Taylorville and the surrounding area families deserve that - and so much more - for their community. 

conclusion. We hope this letter serves to clarify Fur Love's position on the issues.: After much prayer and thought, we have decided not to give up. Fur Love will continue: to hold the funds in an account for the next few months and is asking the county to reconsider its position. After that, Fur Love will begin to accept proposals from the local community on how else the savings should be used for the betterment of Christian County (in particular animals and local civics projects). The funds will be gifted or granted for public benefit, wherever they end up. Fur Love wants to thank the wonderful residents of Taylorville and the surrounding communities for all of their kind thoughts and dedication to animal welfare in the local area. We look forward to partnering with you in supporting community families now and in the future, God is good.
 

Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR and People’s Bank and Trust have announced their Pana High School students of the month for September. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes.

Students of the month are as follows: Freshman Addie Anderson; sophomore Aaron Moss; Junior Kennedy Bowker; and Senior Belle Anderson.

Congratulations to our Honorees from Regional Radio News!

L - R:  SENIOR BELLE ANDERSON; JUNIOR KENNEDY BOWKER; SOPHOMORE AARON MOSS; FRESHMAN ADDIE ANDERSON; PBT REPRESENTATIVE NICK EPLEY

State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) has successfully secured nearly $330,000 in funding for six literacy programs in Springfield and Decatur. The grants, provided by Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian, Alexi Giannoulias, are part of a broader initiative that has distributed nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million for literacy programs across the state.

The funding aims to enhance library services by improving online catalogs, supporting daily operations, expanding inter-library loan programs, and providing resources for vision-impaired individuals. The literacy grants will specifically focus on promoting essential reading, math, writing, and English language skills.

Local beneficiaries include Baby TALK, Richland Community College, Fishes & Loaves Outreach Ministries, Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, Lincoln Land Community College, and Lincoln Library. Turner praised libraries as vital community hubs, saying the grants would empower new advancements in technology and programming.

A complete list of grantees can be found through the Illinois Secretary of State’s office.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the University of Illinois Extension, will offer free cooking classes this fall and winter to promote nutrition education and healthy eating habits. The classes, led by Lisa Peterson, Nutrition & Wellness Educator, will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 22; Monday, Jan. 6; and Thursday, March 20, at TMH.

These workshops aim to address a key need highlighted in the recent Community Health Needs Assessment survey, where Christian County residents expressed a desire for more nutrition education and access to healthy foods.

The classes will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. in Conference Room 179 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. Topics and dates are as follows:

Oct. 22: Heart-Healthy Soups – Learn techniques for creating flavorful, low-sodium soups to promote heart health.

Jan. 6: Healthy Habits & Fresh Herbs – Explore diet trends and discover how to use indoor-grown herbs in recipes.

March 20: Smart Meals – Gain hands-on experience with budget-friendly meal planning and 5-ingredient recipes.

Extension Educator, Andrew Holsinger, recommends citizens sign up for classes for a healthy and informative time.

Registration is required for each class. For more information, contact Lisa Peterson at 217-532-3941 or email lap5981@illinois.edu.
 

The Christian County CEO class of 2024 has big plans for the year ahead and their main focus during the first month of school is their returning business at the Taylorville Chillifest. The group of 28 has used concepts from last year's successful business, dishing out Apple Mellow Cream Doughnuts and cider, with some tweaks that look to improve that bottom line.

CEO students Sydnie Vocks (Investor Relations), Macy Wagahoft (Social Media Management), and Jacob Franklin (Accounting) specialize in different areas for CEO, all bringing in their own skills and developing new ones every day.

With the most students ever enrolled in the Christian County CEO Program, an AM and PM class has taken shape to accommodate the students. The three agree that constant communication and keeping all parties in the loop can be difficult, but valuable for their entrepreneurial experiences.

Aside from starting and bringing businesses to fruition as a group, the second semester will ask each student to create their own venture.

Learn more about the program at www.christiancountyceo.com.

Sydnie Vocks, Macy Wagahoft, and Jacob Franklin appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

A new warning center is coming to Herrick thanks to a new generator, courtesy of Shelby Electric and CoBank. The donation is $20,000 and a check presentation was held on Wednesday Morning in Herrick at the Fire Protection District. The generator will help keep the fire department essential equipment working as well so pipes don’t freeze, and vehicles stay running durng emergency extended outges and of course, a community warming center.  If there are any left over funds those will be used to support the Herrick Fire Protection District such as radios and other items to outfit the volunteer fire fighters.  Megan Miller, Spokesperson for Herrick Fire Protection District says this is an important step and all came together because of the 2021 tornado. 

Shelby Electric has donated over $155,000 philanthropic donations through the Sharing Success program. Faith Wheeler, Member Services Specialist has chaired this project.

Molly Bohlander, Associate Vice President of CoBank says that the program started in 2012 and has been a huge part of CoBanks mission and was happy to be a part of the presentation.

Since the inception of CoBank’s Sharing Success program, the cooperative has received matching dollars for donations to the Shelbyville Fire Department, Roxy Theatre, Shelby County Veteran’s Fund, Shelby County CEO program, Taylorville Development Association, Shelby County Dive Team, Meridian Ag Foundation, Pana Sacred Heart School, the Village of Strasburg, and the Autism Movement Project and Therapy in Pana, to name a few. Including the CoBank match, SEC has donated over $155,000 in philanthropic donations through the Sharing Success program.

Peoples Bank and Trust, along with its holding company, People First Bancshares have announced that Bob Swartz has been appointed to the Board of Directors.  PB&T says Swartz brings a deep and diverse history of experience, education, and leadership to his new position. 

Swartz is the Chief Financial Officer of jThree, Inc., one of the largest and fastest-growing Jimmy John’s franchisees in the country.  jThree Inc. is also the owner and operator of an industrial division of companies based in the midwest and is based in Decatur, Illinois, with over 1,000 employees in eight states of operation. 

Previously, Swartz was a partner with FORVIS, LLP for more than 25 years, providing a full range of assurance and consulting services to financial institutions and employee benefit plans.  His experiences include external and internal audits, strategic modeling, mergers and acquisitions, and capital planning.  He has also had experience in US Securities and Exchange Commission reporting. 

He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and Illinois CPA Society. He serves on the Board of the HSHS St. Mary’s Foundation as Chairman and the Country Club of Decatur as Treasurer. He also has volunteered with several community organizations in the Decatur area, including the Millikin University Tabor School of Business Dean Advisory Council, the Alumni Association Board of Directors for Millikin University, and the Parks and Recreation Commission for the Village of Mt. Zion.

He is a 1998 graduate of Milliken University, Decatur, Illinois, with a B.S. degree in accounting, and has attended the AICPA Banking School at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville.  Bob lives in Mt Zion with his wife, Mary, and children, Landon (16) and Lyla (15).

Peoples Bank & Trust is a locally owned and managed, independent community bank with thirteen offices located in Altamont, Arcola, Arthur, Charleston, Morrisonville, Palmyra, Pana, Springfield, Taylorville, Tower Hill, Tuscola, Waverly, and White Hall. Peoples Bank & Trust is a full-service bank offering outstanding customer service to consumers, small businesses, and farmers in Central Illinois. People First Bancshares, Inc., with corporate offices in Pana, Illinois, is the holding company for Peoples Bank & Trust.

Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) is set to host its 20th annual Multicultural Fest on Wednesday, Oct. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Trutter Center on the Springfield campus. The event, which celebrates cultural diversity through food, entertainment, and exhibits, is free and open to the public.

Attendees on the Springfield campus will enjoy free samples from local food trucks, including Azteca, B & W, and Gyros Stop, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Entertainment will feature performances by DJ Yinka, spoken word artist Tebe Zalango, musician Tom Irwin, and LLCC student performers. Henna body art will also be available courtesy of Expressions Body Art & Design.

Various college and community organizations will host cultural exhibits, including the Islamic Society of Greater Springfield, Lithuanian American Club of Central Illinois, Springfield Lincoln Library, and others.

LLCC’s outreach centers will also hold their own celebrations. The Jacksonville campus will host an event on Thursday, Oct. 10, from 2 to 3 p.m. featuring food, trivia, and displays by English language learning students. The Litchfield and Taylorville campuses will hold events on Oct. 9, with Litchfield offering food and coffee from around the world from 12:30 to 3 p.m., and Taylorville showcasing international snacks and activities from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The festival is organized by LLCC Student Life.

There is more to be aware of on the scam front as the Social Security Administration is becoming aware of “Hybrid Scams” and drawn-out operations that look to fraud innocent citizens out of their money. Scammers have been utilizing email or text messages to notify everyday citizens of problems that do not exist. Often posing as an Amazon or PayPal employee, the scammers use fear and confusion to gain access to personal information.

Jack Myers, Public Affairs Specialist with the SSA, describes the scammers gaining access to one's computer remotely to fix an issue, giving all that is needed to find sensitive information. Myers says that these are the red flags that must raise skepticism for people encountering this situation.

Myers is as clear as possible when he says the SSA will never ask any citizen to move funds or to gain access to their bank account information via text or email.

Myers describes a recent situation where it was the innocent person's skepticism that kept them from falling victim to an evil and believable scam.

Learn more about protecting yourself from potential fraud and scam harm by visiting www.ssa.gov/scam.

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

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced the replacement of a culvert on the Nokomis Blacktop just east of East 15th Road in Montgomery County beginning Monday, Sept. 30.

To complete the culvert replacement, only local traffic will be permitted on Nokomis Blacktop between E. 15th Road and Irving Road. A detour utilizing Illinois 127 and Illinois 16 will be posted. The new box culvert will help maintain adequate drainage in the area. Work is expected to be completed by the end of the week.

Motorists are encouraged to follow the posted detour or will need to find an alternate route. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.

Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve more than 3,200 miles of highway and nearly 9 million square feet of bridge deck as part of Rebuild Illinois, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation. Accomplishments through Year Five of Rebuild Illinois include approximately $16 billion of improvements statewide on 6,541 miles of highway, 686 bridges and 986 additional safety improvements.

For IDOT District 7 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict7 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

Rock Springs Nature Center invites thrill-seekers to an evening of mystery and fun with a Bigfoot Hike on Saturday, October 5, from 7-9 pm. The event kicks off with a deep dive into the legend of Bigfoot, exploring local sightings and intriguing sounds linked to the mysterious creature. Participants will then embark on a night hike, exploring nocturnal wildlife and possibly spotting Bigfoot.

After the hike, attendees will gather around a campfire to enjoy hot cocoa and toasted marshmallows, sharing stories of the night's adventure.

The event is open to all for $5 per person. Registration is required online by October 4 at MaconCountyConservation.org. The Rock Springs Conservation Area is located on the southwestern edge of Decatur, with plenty of parking available.

Pana Elementary School is taking form as student art begins to fill the hallways and teachers settle into their new classrooms. Through one month at the new elementary building, staff and administrators have worked to provide the smoothest transition possible in drop off and pick ups, utilizing new technology and having first through fifth graders all under one roof. Angela Matthews, Assistant Principal at Pana Elementary says they have done just that.

A major focus is student development, particularly the foundational aspects of the young learners' social and emotional skills. Topics like empathy and self-resiliency are advocated for, all to create well-rounded and respectful students.

Matthews shares her excitement for the new STEM Lab and the opportunities students receive to interact with technology. Matthews says students are finding the intersection of topics and relating subjects back to other core classes.

Pana Elementary parent-teacher conferences are held on Oct. 11th for the duration of the day.

More information can be found at www.panaschools.com

Angela Matthews appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.  

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club installed new officers at its Tuesday meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Bill Assalley (right) was installed as the new Kiwanis Club president, as current president Chuck Martin (left) becomes past president on October First.  Martin Vota will continue to serve as secretary and Jeff Grimmett was installed as the club's new treasurer replacing Blain Cornwell who retired from the position.

Outgoing president Martin's last duty in the office, was to name the Kiwanian of the Year to recognize a member who worked above and beyond for the club's goal of assisting children and youth in the community.   

Kiwanis Park co-chair Larry Kemner (right) was named Kiwanian of the Year by Martin (left) for his efforts not only at the Park, but also volunteering to assist at Christmas in the Park, and the Kiwanis Pancake and Sausage Breakfast.

Martin named a second Kiwanian of the Year with Dean Ray being recognized for his many efforts for the club.   Ray was not present to accept his award.

Kiwanis Park co-chair Duane Stock announced further work is going on at the park this fall.   

And, president Martin announced that last weekend's annual Kid's Day fund-raiser at the Harrison Corner of Webster and West Main Cross last Friday and Saturday, netted the club over 18-hundred dollars for local Kiwanis projects for children and youth.  Martin thanked the Kiwanis members who volunteered to man the corner both days, and to the public for their continued support.

Steve Dennis of the Lincoln Trail Bike Conservancy attended Tuesday's Kiwanis Club meeting and reported on the installation of a bike rack on the Bike Trail thanks to the 500-dollar grant the Kiwanis Club provided last fall.  Dennis thanked the club for its support.

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 general election is just over one month away and the race between Vice President Kamala Harris and Former President Donald Trump is tightening in battleground states. Dr. Kent Redfield, Professor Emeritus of Political Science from the University of Illinois, explains that the "Upper Midwest Blue Wall" in, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin and the "Southern Strategy" in North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada, will be the deciding states in November.

Dr. Redfield cites current average national polls leaning slightly towards VP Kamala Harris as of Sunday.

As for the battleground states, Dr. Redfield says it's too close to call.

In the Illinois congressional races, Dr. Redfield argues that extreme gerrymandering in the state leads to the under-representation of many voters and a lack of competition.

The presidential election is set for Tuesday, November 5th.

Dr. Kent Redfield appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Pumpkin spice lattes, apple crisp macchiatos, and chai lattes may conjure up all kinds of images for you. You can't think of fall or winter without at least acknowledging these drinks exist. Caroline Brundage, a dietetic intern with OSF Healthcare says to be careful with these drinks as they contain added sugar.  Some drinks she says have 50 grams or more of added sugar.  Brundage says more coffee shop drinks have higher levels of saturated fat which can cause weight gain. 

Brundage says that you should do your research before getting hooked on a sugary drink such as checking out the nutritional information and looking for added sugar, carbohydrates, and saturated fat.  If you're purchasing on an app, you can customize your drink.  Brundage says that customizing your drink by doing things like skipping toppings and going with almond milk can help with calories. 

Another option you have is to make your drinks at home.  This way, Brundage says you can know exactly how much of each ingredient is in your drink.

Brundage says if you commit to a healthy diet and exercise, getting a once-a-week sugary drink reward isn't a huge concern.  If you get a coffee a few times a week, however, she says to consider swapping ingredients, purchasing a smaller size, making the drink at home, or cutting back on the number of drinks can help. 

See your primary care physician or dietitian for more information on dieting and how to enjoy your drinks. 

The Taylorville Park Board met this evening at 7 p.m. at the Manners Park Dining Hall for their monthly September meeting. On the agenda was supposed to be an additional discussion surrounding the future of Red Bland Little League. Unfortunately, Aaron Sampson was not able to represent Red Bland due to outside circumstances. Red Bland Little League will be moved automatically by the Board to next months meeting.

Under new business, the Taylorville Park Board discussed surveying from Brent A. Windell, for the newly required water service lines. The motion was passed with the total cost being $8200. The Board also reviewed a proposal from Telescan Inc. regarding the potentially outdated sanitation lines needing inspection for the upcoming pool project.

Taylorville Park Board President Marlene Miller provided an update on the recent lead finding in Manners Park. Andrew Engineering will be at Manners Park in the coming days to ensure this is the only section of worry.

Other items within the agenda included:
- Approval of August 2024 minutes
- Approval of July's Treasurer's Report
- Approval of payment for bills
- Approval of committee reports

The next Taylorville Park Board meeting will be on October 28th, 2024.

Emerging research suggests that poor gut health may significantly increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Studies have long indicated that gut health affects brain health, with links to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's. This latest research strengthens the theory that the gut microbiome and damage to the upper gastrointestinal tract are key contributors to Parkinson's risk.

Dr. Omar Khokhar, a gastroenterologist with OSF HealthCare, has more. 

Dr. Khokhar highlights the connection between gut damage and overall health, pointing to systemic inflammation and potential neuroinflammation that could contribute to Parkinson's. 

While the study shows a strong correlation, it does not definitively prove that gut issues cause Parkinson's. Dr. Khokhar hopes that future advancements in microbiome testing through blood or breath could lead to personalized treatments using prebiotics and probiotics. He advises improving diet and regular GI check-ups as practical steps for better gut and brain health.

For those seeking to improve gut health, Dr. Khokhar recommends incorporating natural sources of prebiotics and probiotics, like Greek yogurt, sauerkraut, and aged cheese, into daily diets. He encourages people to be mindful of the ingredients in processed foods, emphasizing the importance of making informed choices about what we eat.

The Taylorville Park Board is set to meet Monday at 7 p.m. at the Manners Park Dining Hall for their monthly September meeting. Following the approval of minutes from the previous board meeting, new business is on the agenda. Red Bland Little League, a new water service line, televised pipeline inspection, and an update from Andrew Engineering, are all set to be discussed.

After new business, the Taylorville Park Board will look to approve payment of bills and will hear reports from the maintenance superintendent, recreation director, and office secretary.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more on this meeting following its conclusion.
 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club once again held a drive-thru donation day on Saturday, in front of our studios at 918 East Park Street in Taylorville. Kiwanis Members Chuck Martin and Bill Assalley manned the tent and accepted non-perishable foods and monetary donations to benefit the Taylorville Food Pantry.
 
Live on Groovy 97.3 WRAN, Taylorville Kiwanis Club President, Chuck Martin, spoke about the morning of donations and the recent updates and upkeep at the Kiwanis Park.

Martin speaks fondly of his time as president and is ready to pass the torch to the next Taylorville Kiwanis Club President, Bill Assalley.

Incoming Kiwanis President, Bill Assalley, tells about his experience in Kiwanis and the many events they coordinate year-round. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club, Taylorville Food Pantry, and the Miller Media Group thank all those who contributed to the drive-thru donation day. 
 
 

The Touchstone Energy Balloon Fest is coming back to Shelbyville, from Friday, October 11th to Sunday, October 13th. The skies above Lake Shelbyville come alive with the vibrant colors of hot air balloons. The festivities kick off on Friday evening, as the balloons take to the air at 5:00 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, early risers are treated to breathtaking dawn flights, with balloons soaring over the airport on Saturday and drifting gracefully above the lake on Sunday. Saturday night brings the highly anticipated Balloon Glow, a celebration filled with food, music, and fun, as the illuminated balloons create a magical atmosphere against the night sky.

Kevin Bernson, Vice President and Public Relations Specialist for Shelby Electric Cooperative, talks about some of the new balloons that will take flight this year along with known fliers that have been seen in the past.

Bernson describes some of the history behind Balloon Fest, saying it began as a way to keep people in town for just a little bit longer.

Learn more information at www.enjoyillinois.com/explore/listing/touchstone-energy-balloon-fest-1.

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

The Christian County Board has responded to recent allegations that they refused money from Steve and Sherri Craggs concerning Fur Love and Christian County Animal Control. In a letter released to the public by Bryan Sharp, County Board Chairman, Sharp addresses the questions saying that to date, no such donation has been given to the county.  He says what has occurred is that Fur Love has raised funds for the express purpose of the expansion of the Animal Control Facility and for a “proposed” expansion of the Animal Control Facility.  

Sharp continues by stressing that the county has never proposed an expansion and has never authorized any person or entity to raise funds for an expansion.  He says the board is not planning any expansion and would decline any sum of money that was earmarked for an expansion.  

Sharp says the Animal Control Facility receives many generous donations both in money and volunteer hours.  People provide help with adoption fees and spaying and neutering to facilitate the adoption of abandoned animals.  In-kind pet food donations are regularly received and appreciated. He says that volunteers provide reliable and invaluable help caring for animals.

Bryan Sharp finishes his letter by saying that the board welcomes Fur Love to join the ranks of those who generously donate funds to help with any operational needs identified by the Animal Control Director and approved by the Christian County Board. 

To see the full letter released to the public click here. 

Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 4 arrested six individuals in September in Sangamon and Christian counties for internet crimes against children, including possession and dissemination of child sexual abuse materials.

On September 5, 2024, after an extensive investigation, ISP agents arrested Robert W. Retzloff, a 45-year-old male of Taylorville, IL.  The Christian County State’s Attorney’s Office approved eight counts of Dissemination of Child Pornography (Class X Felony) against Retzloff and he is being held at the Christian County Jail.

ISP agents conducted five additional child exploitation investigations in Sangamon County. On September 18, 2024, the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office issued arrest warrants on these cases.  The following individuals were taken into custody on September 18-19, 2024 for the charges listed below:

Nicholas R. Hackwith (20) of Springfield, IL – 12 counts of Possession of Child Pornography (Class 2 Felony)

Daniel J. McBride (22) of Springfield, IL – 13 counts of Dissemination of Child Pornography (Class X Felony) and two counts of Dissemination of Child Pornography (Class 1 Felony)

Cam A. Metzger (37) of Springfield, IL – 12 counts of Possession of Child Pornography (Class 2 Felony)

Stephen K. Peak (20) of Springfield, IL – Three counts of Dissemination of Child Pornography (Class X Felony) and two counts of Possession of Child Pornography (Class 2 Felony)

Giacomo A. Pecoraro III (23) of Springfield, IL – two counts of Dissemination of Child Pornography (Class X Felony) and 10 counts of Possession of Child Pornography (Class 2 Felony)

ISP agents were assisted by the Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), the United States Marshals Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force, and ISP Troop 6.

The Illinois State Police provides resources for parents, for the public to report crimes against children, and victims to start their path towards healing and recovery.  Anonymous tips of child sexual abuse and exploitation materials can also be reported through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's (NCMEC) cyber tip line at www.cybertipline.com.  To keep kids safe online, learn more at: https://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/onlinesafe/; www.cybertipline.org; For resources for survivors of sexual abuse visit: https://www.missingkids.org/gethelpnow/csam-resources.

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that pavement patching around Litchfield will begin Thursday, Sept. 19. This patching project includes Illinois 16 from west of the Interstate 55 interchange to Old U.S. 66, the north- and southbound off-ramps at the I-55 Litchfield interchange, and Old U.S. 66 from Ferdon Street to Illinois 16.

The work on the interstate off-ramps will require full closures. ? However, only one ramp will be closed at a time, and detours directing traffic to the next interchange and turn around will be in place. The daily closures will likely last two to three days for each ramp. ?

Work on Illinois 16 will require lane and possible intersection closures. Signage and flaggers will assist with traffic control. The project should be completed in late September.

Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, motorists are encouraged to follow the posted detour or find an alternate route. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.

Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve more than 3,200 miles of highway and nearly 9 million square feet of bridge deck as part of Rebuild Illinois, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation. Accomplishments through Year Five of Rebuild Illinois include approximately $16 billion of improvements statewide on 6,541 miles of highway, 686 bridges and 986 additional safety improvements.

For IDOT District 6 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict6 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

The St. Mary's Fall Festival is fast approaching.  The event starts today and runs through Sunday, September 22nd. Brenan Dennison, Chair member for the St. Mary's Fall Festival Committee, says that there is something for everyone at the Fall Festival and it means a lot to see everyone come out for the event. 

The events kick off today with a fish fry and the band "The Get Down."

On Saturday, there will be a vendor event, kids tent, a petting zoo, dodgeball tournament and much, much more. 

The band Brushville will also be performing on Saturday evening from 7-10 PM. On Sunday, there will be food trucks available, a car cruise, and wine tasting.  

For more information on the St. Mary's Fall Festival visit St. Mary's Parish Fall Festival on Facebook. Brenan Dennison appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Local youth have the opportunity to take the next step in their professional development by attending the 4-H Officer Training to be held Saturday, October 19th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Lincoln Land Community College- Litchfield campus. This event is free and looks to show 4-Her's what it takes to be successful in any of the elected positions.

Taylor Pope, 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator, says this training will give a look inside what it takes to be a 4-H Officer.

Pope describes these elected positions and the ways officers operate as youth-focused and youth-run.

Pope herself was very involved in 4-H and being an officer. She says the takeaway in professional development is valuable.

Learn more about 4-H Officer Training at go.illinois.edu/cjmm4-HOfficerTraining.

Taylor Pope appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

 Taylorville Chillifest is right around the corner, appearing on October 5th and 6th on the Taylorville Square. The 39th year will bring Chili Pepper Pageants, live performances, a myriad of vendors, and of course, all the chili you can eat. Linda Allen, Executive Director of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the town's marquee event for yet another year and said coordination and meetings have been successful, especially for the pageant.

Taylorville Schools will be on display with their jazz band and other possible shows. Allen says the chamber's chili recipe and product will be coming from J.I McDowell, Owner of Angelo's.

Chillifest was only possible with the many local businesses that have gotten involved in the tier sponsorship system, with all tiers titled with different peppers. Andrew Lahey, GTCC Board Member reads off some of the sponsors.

Learn all the information you need at www.facebook.com/TaylorvilleChillifest.

Linda Allen and Andrew Lahey appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

Four men were arrested in Taylorville on Thursday morning following a warrant on suspected drug activity at an unlicensed sober living home.  The Taylorville Police Department investigated the property located in the 900 block of East Oak Street.  This sober living home was intended to provide a safe environment for individuals in recovery from addiction. 

After a narcotic search warrant was filed four individuals were arrested:  51-year-old James Crepin, the owner of the facility, was charged with possession of meth and unlawful use of property. 38-year-old Joseph Besson was charged with possession of meth, possession of meth with intent to deliver, and delivery of methamphetamine, 29-year-old Sean Neville was charged with possession of meth and possession of meth with intent to deliver, and 27-year-old Patrick Carr was charged with delivery of meth (x3) and possession with intent to deliver.

TPD Chief Dwayne Wheeler says he’s very frustrated with these arrests as the intent of the facility was to support community members striving for sobriety. The Taylorville Police Department wish to thank the many citizens of Taylorville who reported on the issues going on at the house and the Christian County State’s Attorney for filing the charges.  TPD also thanked the Stonington Police Department and the Christian County Sheriff’s Office. 

With harvest season fast approaching, the National Safety Council is urging Illinoisans to drive safe as the third week of September is marked as National Farm Safety Week.  This week emphasizes not just safety in the fields, but also the need for farm vehicle and rural road safety.  

According to State Representative Brad Halbrook, agriculture in Illinois has the highest rate of worker deaths compared to other industries.  According to the University of Illinois there are 21.3 deaths per 100,000 in the industry.  Every day farmers put themselves at risk by doing their job, whether it is driving a tractor on a public road, maintaining equipment, working in silos, or working with large, heavy livestock. National Farm Safety and Health Week is a good reminder to recognize potential dangers and take steps to avoid those dangers. 

 Farmers put in a lot of hours with very few breaks and Representative Halbrook urges farmers to take breaks. ?He encourages all farmers to remember three words: rest, nutrition, and hydration. 

Representative Halbrook says that everyone can help keep farmers safe by watching for slower-moving vehicles on the roadways.  

"It's a Wonderful Life" was the theme for the 25th Anniversary Banquet for the Loving Arms Pregnancy Center Thursday night at the Pillars Event Center in Taylorville.

Some 160 people came to listen on how the Center, with locations now in Taylorville and Pana, have impacted the lives of pregnant mothers to carry their baby to delivery, as well as ministering to the families of newborns.   The Center also provides abstinence education in many Christian County schools.

Executive Director Cathy Coker told Regional Radio News at the end of the night, she was grateful for the turnout as well as their guest speaker and artist Mark Schultz.

Coker has been Executive Director of Loving Arms for the majority of its 25-year-history.   She told us it was all about saving just one child from abortion.

Guest speaker was platinum-selling Christian Music Artist Mark Schultz who at birth was given up by his own mother.   Schultz shared his story and many of his songs to the Loving Arms crowd.  Schultz told Regional Radio News after last night's event how Loving Arms has stepped in the gap for unborn babies.

Find out more information on the Loving Arms Pregnancy Center in Taylorville and Pana on-line at lovingarmsillinois.com.

Wright's Furniture and Flooring is celebrating 135 years of business, providing Central Illinois with furniture, design help and customer services to fit all interior design needs. Wright's began in 1889 in Dieterich and has been passed on to five generations of Wright's, and now four stores operate across Central Illinois in Taylorville, Robinson, Effingham and the original store in Dieterich.

Alex Wright, Vice President of Wright's Furniture, tells the unique story of how the furniture store came to be.

To celebrate 135 years of business, discounts are featured at all four Wright's locations and hidden train tickets are scattered throughout the stores, if found, prizes are awaiting those lucky shoppers.

Wright takes the opportunity to speak about the many brands their stores carry and the line of mattresses that are exclusive to Wright's Furniture.

Learn more about the locations or inventory at www.wrightsfurniture.com.

Alex Wright appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Due to an uptick of hoax threats in recent months, FBI Springfield is reminding the public of the consequences of making a hoax threat against a school or other public place. These threats—often issued via text message, phone calls, email, or posted on social media—are taken very seriously. FBI Springfield works closely with our local law enforcement partners to fully analyze and investigate all threats to determine credibility.

Hoax threats can have devastating consequences, both for the public and for the perpetrators. There is also a significant societal cost. Law enforcement agencies have limited resources, and responding to a hoax threat diverts officers and costs taxpayers. Most hoax threat cases are handled by local and state law enforcement agencies; however, the FBI often provides resources and guidance in these investigations. Those who engage in hoax threats can receive up to five years in federal prison, or face state or local charges.

“The FBI takes every single hoax threat very seriously because they put innocent people at risk and can cause severe emotional distress for victims. Making hoax threats is not a prank, it’s a federal crime that can result in prison time,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson.

“As always, we encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and immediately report anything they consider suspicious to law enforcement.”

Be aware of the following:
• Don’t ever post or send any hoax threat online…period.
• If you are a target of an online threat, alert your local law enforcement immediately.
• If you see a threat of violence posted on social media, immediately contact local law enforcement or FBI Springfield. Members of the public can always submit a tip to tips.fbi.gov.
• Notify authorities but don’t share or forward the threat until law enforcement has had a chance to investigate—this can spread misinformation and cause panic.
• If you are a parent or family member, know that some young people post these threats online as a cry for attention or as a way to get revenge or exert control. Talk to your child about the proper outlet for their stress or other emotions, and explain the importance of responsible social media use and the consequences of posting hoax threats.

The FBI provides a variety of resources and information regarding hoax threats at
https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/hoax-threats-awareness-100518.

A cease and desist has been filed by the Christian County Board against Steve and Sherri Craggs of Fur Love in Taylorville, asking that they stop using the County’s name for advertising, fundraising, or other purposes and that Fur Love remove any and all references to the county on any advertising, Facebook page, and other documents or sources.  On Tuesday night, the Christian County board voted unanimously to authorize the County Board Chairman Bryan Sharp to send a cease and desist letter to Fur Love reflecting that. 

Steve Craggs says that he and Sherri are shocked at the cease and desist.  Craggs said in a statement to Regional Radio News, “It is with great joy and excitement that with the help and support of Christian County’s amazing and giving citizens, FurLove has raised over $250,000 to give to Christian County with one stipulation - that the money be used by the Christian County Animal Control.    On September 17, 2024, representatives of FurLove presented its proposal to renovate/expand the animal control facility to the Christian County Board.  The Board sadly declined FurLove’s offer and rejected the use of the funds for the benefit of our county’s homeless animals.  Needless to say, Fur Love is devastated.  Voters across Christian County have generously given donations and the Fur Love volunteers have worked  thousands of  hours  in hopes of renovating the existing animal shelter, given the overcrowding that exists at the current building.  After much prayer and thought, Fur Love has decided not to give up.  FurLove will hold the funds in an account for the next three months, and is asking everyone, if they have a moment, to consider calling or emailing their county board member to encourage them to accept the funds for use to renovate/expand the existing animal shelter.”

Craggs says that Fur Love will begin to accept proposals from the community on how else to use the savings fund for Christian County for animals and local civic projects.  Craggs says Fur Love is there for the community.  

The County Board says that at no point did they authorize any person to raise funds for an expansion for animal control, nor did they endorse any fundraising efforts.  The board also says they have no plans to expand the animal control building at this time and they say that Steve Craggs understood that. 

To see the full cease and desist letter click here. 

Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) is featuring select works from its permanent art collection in an exhibit running through November 1. The display is housed in the Trutter Museum/Murray Gallery in Menard Hall and is open to the public on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The exhibit highlights two-dimensional pieces that have been displayed across campus over the years and will soon return to their usual locations after construction is completed. The works, familiar to many, offer a brief glimpse before rotating back into campus hallways and offices.

LLCC's permanent collection aims to enrich the campus environment, offering students and the community opportunities to appreciate original artwork. The collection includes works by students and faculty, as well as pieces purchased by the college and donated by individuals, including significant contributions from the Trutter family.

For more information about the exhibit and the museum, visit www.llcc.edu/trutter-murray.

Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter has announced his nomination of Paula Crouch to serve as the county's next Sheriff. The nomination will be voted on at the September 18th board meeting, following the retirement of former Sheriff Jack Campbell. If approved, Crouch's term will run through December 2026.

A lifelong resident of Sangamon County, Crouch has nearly 30 years of public service experience. She started her career as a 911 dispatcher before joining the Springfield Police Department in 1999, where she rose to the rank of lieutenant before retiring in 2023. Crouch has since served as the Chief Deputy of Administration for the Sangamon County Circuit Clerk's Office.

Crouch’s career includes roles as a detective, a member of the Hostage Negotiations Team, and an instructor for law enforcement training. Her work has been recognized with several awards, including the American Red Cross Hero Award for Public Service and the Abraham Lincoln Award for community service.

A committee chaired by former Judge Pat Kelley reviewed 15 candidates before recommending Crouch. Judge Kelley states the committee is confident in Paula Crouch's ability to lead the Sheriff's Office.

Crouch, who lives in rural Williams Township with her family, expressed her gratitude for the nomination and pledged to prioritize public safety. Van Meter praised her resilience and dedication, emphasizing her deep community ties and leadership qualities.

A sparse Christian County board meeting was held on Tuesday night as only ten board members were present.  David Buckles, Tim Carlson, Linda Curtin, Clint Epley, Clint Gabriel, Ray Koonce, Venice McWard, Dave Puccetti, Bryan Sharp, and Jean Vandenbergh were all present for the meeting.  The major focus of the meeting was on new business. Steve Craggs presented a new proposal for an animal shelter and was looking for support from the County Board. With the new Fur Love building, the Craggs have been taking donations from the new building and the money has been put into an account to go towards an animal shelter eventually. 

The discussion has been focused on the difference between an animal control and an animal shelter.

Chairman Bryan Sharp echoed that sentiment saying, yes, there was a big difference between the two. 

Sharp says that the board operates by statute and it’s important that statutes get upheld. He continued by stressing that there is no animal shelter and said that because Craggs has referred to the animal shelter as the Christian County Animal Shelter that it has caused confusion.  Sharp even referenced a previous article on taylorvilledailynews.com that referred to it as such. 

In an effort to try to take the counties name out of the discussion of the proposed animal shelter, a motion was approved for a cease and desist filed against the Craggs to prevent them from using the name Christian County in any projects that they would work on or fundraise for. 

Bryan Sharp also alerted the board to a mass issue with a CO2 leak in a sequestration site in Decatur. 

In other news, the sale of 17 properties was approved. A black diamond project special use extension was approved.  A speed study request was ordered for Wantland Drive. A Tandem Dump Truck was approved and work continues on figuring out the writing for a public defender advocate position. 

The next meeting is set for Tuesday, October 15th, 2024. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from a state official with the Illinois Recreational Access Program at its Tuesday meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Shane Sinclair is the Southern Illinois Coordinator for the Illinois Recreational Access Program, or IRAP, which is part of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.  The program was created out of the Federal Farm Bill of 2013, providing states with money to lease private property for semi-controlled public access for recreational opportunities such as hunting and fishing.

Sinclair told the Kiwanis Club his territory covers south of Interstate 72 in 53 counties, working with willing landowners to establish a management plan for their property that addresses such issues as invasive species, opening of the canopy, natural oak and hickory forest regeneration, and prairie grass plantings.

He added his agency then offers to lease the property from the landowner, and then allows public access thru a permitting and reservation process.

Sinclair told the Kiwanis Club landowners get a rental rate plus his agency cost shares improvements.

Sinclair told Kiwanis members some 33-thousand acres and 3-hundred landowners across Illinois are participating in the statewide program.

In other Kiwanis news, Kiwanis Park co-chair Duane Stock reported that the new climbing wall at the park has been installed, after several weeks of work by him and Kiwanis members Will Perkins, Jerry Woodard, Larry Kemner, Chuck Martin, Tim Sutton, and Dick Wamsley, along with Stock's wife Cindy.   Stock added that thanks to donated supplies and labor from At Your Service Roofing of Pana, the Kiwanis Park restroom building has a new roof.

The local Kiwanis Club reminds the public one of its biggest fund-raisers is taking place this weekend at locations thru-out the city.   This Friday from 8 til 4 and Saturday from 8 til noon, the Kiwanis "Kid's Days" has Kiwanis members on street corners and in front of businesses asking for cash donations to go toward local Kiwanis projects for children and youth such as Coats for Kids, Kiwanis Park, YMCA and high school scholarships, and the Christian County CEO program among others.  The public's generosity is much appreciated.

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.

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital recently announced a registered ‘Drug Take Back’ site with the Drug Enforcement Agency or ‘DEA.’ This is an entirely new service that offers residents a free and secure way to properly dispose of their unused or expired prescription and non-prescription medicines.

The ‘Drug Take Back’ box is situated in the front Emergency Room entrance of Good Shepherd Hospital, located at 201 S. Pine St. in Shelbyville. Community members can access the brightly colored lime green box at any time as the ER Department is open to the public at all times. It is recommended that before dropping off any prescription medicine, you make sure to remove all personal information displayed on the pill bottle and medicine package labels.

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital, Shelbyville is part of Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS), a Catholic health care ministry founded in 1875. Based in Springfield, Illinois, HSHS provides over 11,000 colleagues with jobs, who provide care for 13 acute-care, children's, and critical-access hospitals, as well as home health and hospice programs across Central and Southern Illinois and Eastern Wisconsin. HSHS is partnered with more than 1,000 primary and specialty physicians and advanced practitioners through its affiliates, including HSHS Medical Group, Prairie Cardiovascular, and Prevea Health. 

For more information about HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital and their new ‘Drug Take Back’ site, visit them at hshsgoodshepherd.org.

Taylorville Community Credit Union is looking to remind area high school seniors in Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, and Pana that the deadline to apply for their scholarship program is Friday, October 11th. Any senior student from the area high schools mentioned, that plans to pursue their secondary education at a trade school, community college, or university, is eligible to enter.

The TCCU scholarship program will award eight students total, two students from each of the four schools, with $1000 each towards continuing their education. Taylorville Community Credit Union’s President, Will Perkins, says registering is easy. To register, interested students will need to provide their name, a quality photo, and a completed parental permission form.

The selection process will heavily involve community members by them just simply shopping at one of the many participating local business. Each $10 spent at one of these locations will earn you one vote to use towards the senior student of your choice. The maximum number of votes allowed per purchase is 100 points or $1000 spent. This selection process will start in mid-November and will continue through February 28th of 2025.

Scholarship recipients will not be announced until the end of this current school year in May of 2025. For more information on the scholarship program, visit www.TCCU.org.

The Assumption Community is set to host a community wide blood drive in partnership with ImpactLife on Thursday, October 3rf from 3:30 P.M. until 6 P.M.. The Assumption Community Blood Drive will be held at 225 N Chestnut Street, inside the donor bus at the Masonic Lodge.

ImpactLife is a non-profit community organization that continues to serve as the primary provider of blood products and services to over 125 hospitals and Emergency Medical Services in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin. In the Taylorville area, ImpactLife exclusively serves Pana Community Hospital and Taylorville Memorial Hospital. ImpactLife is a non-profit community organization.

To be eligible to donate blood, individuals must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental permission) and weigh more than 110 pounds. A photo ID is required for donation. For those unsure about their eligibility, you can contact ImpactLife at (800) 747-5401 for clarification. If you last gave blood on or before August 8th of 2024, you are once again eligible to participate in this drive.

As a token of appreciation when you donate, you will receive an ImpactLife Promo Voucher that can be redeemed for various rewards. Appointments are encouraged and interested donors can contact ImpactLife Springfield at (800) 747-5401 or visit www.bloodcenter.org and use code 60003 to locate the drive. 

Taylorville Fire Department dealt with two major blazes in the last 24 hours.  At 9:25 Monday night, Taylorville fire was dispatched to 57 Hillcrest for a fire in the kitchen.  Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and the fire had extended into the rest of the home.  The fire was extinguished and an extensive overhaul was performed to extinguish hot spots. 

According to TFD, one cat was found and given oxygen by TFD members appearing in good health. The Red Cross is assisting the family with their needs.  The cause of the fire was ruled accidental by TFD with the fire department on scene for 60 minutes helped by Owaneco and Stonington Fire Departments. 

The second fire happened at 12:20 on Tuesday afternoon.  Carriage Crossing at 920 McAdam Drive reported a fire in the laundry room.  Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke venting from a vent fan on the roof.  Staff evacuated residents from A House and B House.  Doors between the fire room and the rest of the facility were shut which limited the travel of the smoke.  TPD along with the Taylorville HBO assisted the staff in moving residents to the C House.  No residents, staff, or firefighters were injured in the blaze.  

All residents will be able to return to their apartments.  Due to the fire being near the kitchen, alternative plans for residents for meals are in place by property management for the time being. The cause of the fire is ruled accidental by TFD.  Crews were on the scene for 70 minutes assisted by Edinburg and Stonington Fire. 

Fall classes are in session for Lincoln Land Community College and the campus is buzzing as students are already in week 5. There is still plenty of time to register for classes or to set yourself up for the winter/spring sessions that are available. Dee Kruger, Director for LLCC-Taylorville, says college can be difficult and if you are struggling after returning to classes, options are available to help you get back on your feet. 

With that being said, there are plenty of sessions available for you that are coming up if school is something you want to do including spring registration that is coming up on October 16th. 

If you are a junior or high school student, Kruger says it's never too early to start researching what you want to learn in school. 

Kruger says that if you are undecided, several options are still available for you. 

For more information on LLCC, visit https://www.llcc.edu/our-locations/taylorville.

The Christian County Board will be meeting on Tuesday at 6:30 PM. There are several appointments including the Assumption Drainage District where Jim Branyan and Brian Hiler are expected to be appointed.  Sales of delinquent tax property and mobile homes will be discussed as 17 properties are on the list. 

The ZBA (Zoning Board of Appeals) will look at some additions to their guides. Highway, building, and grounds will look at the Black Diamond Project Special Use Extension, zoning business, solid waste and highway business, animal control, and courthouse updates.  The executive, personnel, and liquor will look at an EMA update, the 2025 holiday schedule, and the Public Defender Advocate Position. 

Under audit, finance, purchasing, and budget the board will look at claims, office equipment for the public defender office, a 2025 contract with CTI, and the FY2025 budget.  Under new business, the board will discuss a job description for a client advocate for the public defender’s office and animal control operation and funding. 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News following the conclusion of the event. 

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening. All aldermen were present except for Kathy Driskell.  Under ordinances, A Business Development District agreement between Taylorville and James O. Beavers for 219 West Main Cross was approved. A special events permit was approved for Landmark of Taylorville for October 3rd.  

A motion was approved to accept a quote from Tyler Technologies for work for the Water Department and Administration Office and a motion was approved for an engineering proposal for work on the Food Center Street Improvements. The Taylorville Mayor, Bruce Barry gave his update relaying information on many projects that the city is working on. 

Under committee reports, the council approved a motion for TPD Chief Dwayne Wheeler to attend the IACP Conference, and a computer for the new squad car from CDC Office Technologies. The council approved a motion to make the salary for the City Clerk, City Treasurer, and Mayor for 2025-2028 at $70,000 for the city clerk and treasurer (base salary), and $72,000 for the Mayor (base salary). The Mayor, City Clerk, and treasurer would all receive a 4% salary increase in 2026,2027, and 2028.  A motion was approved for the position of aldermen to receive $1,000 a month. Aldermen Megan Bryant said that this would go into effect for the next term, not the current one. 

The motion passed 6-0 with Aldermen Steve Dorchinecz abstaining. A motion was approved for a service agreement with Corrpro Companies and a motion was passed for the purchase of luminaries. There was also a motion to authorize a pay agreement for the Springfield Road Route 29 Water Main Replacement and an engineering service agreement for the South Main Water Main Replacement. 

During public comments, Aldermen Randy Mitchelson talked about a solar plant over on Glennhill Road and excess water during storms. 

The next regular city council meeting is set for October 7th. 

If you wake up feeling lousy, have a runny nose, or your head feels full it may be a cold, or it may be allergies and adult-onset allergies are a real thing that happens to a lot of people.  Nearly 1 in 3 adults in the US have seasonal allergies, eczema, or food allergies, according to recent data from the CDC.  Nearly 75% of those are older than 45.  Many developed allergies in adulthood or were not diagnosed until they were adults. 

Experts are unclear as to why some allergies develop in adulthood.  Some theories include moving from one geographic region to another, having a reduced immune system, or owning a pet for the first time in your life.  There is a belief, that having one severe allergic reaction or symptoms during childhood can increase your chances of developing allergies as an adult. 

Many people who develop allergies in life, usually outgrow their allergies by the time they are in their 20s or 30s.  Breanna Gendron, a nurse practitioner with OSF says it is possible to develop an allergy to something at any point in life.  

Gendron says most people are bothered by things that bloom including trees and grass in the spring. Ragweed pollen or other weed pollen can be problematic in the fall.  Spores from molds and fungi are generally around in warm-weather months and house dust mite allergens can be present throughout the year.  

Most allergies, while annoying are fairly mild such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose.  Gendron says more adults suffer from sinus infections with their allergy issues than younger patients.  

Gendron recommends treating allergies with oral antihistamines, eye drops, and steroid nasal sprays.  Allergy shots can be ordered as well, but Gendron suggests talking to your doctor to see if you are a candidate for a skin test to find out what your allergies are.  

Some other things you can do is eliminate carpet in your bedroom, wash your sheets often, take a shower before bedtime, and keep windows closed at night to prevent pollen from entering the home.  

For more information on allergies talk to your primary care physician. 

CNB Bank & Trust’s Taylorville branch has donated $1,000 to Shadow Box, a local nonprofit, as part of its Summer of Giving campaign. Shadow Box collects donated household items and clothing for resale, with proceeds benefiting local charities such as Shadow Home and the Taylorville Food Bank.

“Shadow Box does incredible work, not only by giving new life to donated items but also by using the proceeds to support vital local services,” said Susie Montgomery, Retail Lending Officer at CNB Bank & Trust.

The donation is part of CNB’s broader commitment to supporting communities across its 18 service locations, including Taylorville. The bank also offers a variety of traditional and specialized services, including investment and farm management solutions.

The C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corporation has announced the availability of funds to help income-eligible households in Christian, Clay, Effingham, Fayette, Montgomery, Moultrie, and Shelby counties with their energy bills. Through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), eligible households can receive one-time support for natural gas, propane, electric bills, or furnace repair for non-functional heating systems.

Applications open October 1, 2024, for older adults, individuals with disabilities, families with young children, and households facing utility disconnection. All other eligible households may apply starting November 1, 2024. Applications will be accepted until August 15, 2025, or until funds run out, with assistance provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

To qualify, households must have an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Required documents include proof of income, Social Security numbers or ITINs, and recent utility bills. Ameren Illinois LIHEAP customers will also benefit from a new monthly discount on their natural gas bill starting October 1, 2024.

For more information or to apply, visit www.cefseoc.org or call the local C.E.F.S. Outreach office.

The Taylorville City Council is set to meet Monday evening at 7 PM at the municipal building in Taylorville. Under ordinance discussions, the council will review a look at a BDD agreement between Taylorville and 219 W Main Cross, a special events liquor license permit for Landmark of Taylorville on October 3rd. A quote from Tyler Technologies for $11,286 for the Water Department and Administration Office, and an engineering proposal for Food Center Street Improvements. 

Under committee reports, the council will look at a motion to approve TPD Chief Dwayne Wheeler to the IACP Conference and a purchase from CDC Office Technologies, a motion to approve salary ordinance for the city clerk and treasurer, mayor, and aldermen. According to the ordinance, the Mayor, City Clerk, and City Treasurer would receive a 4% salary increase in 2026,2027, and 2028.

There is also a motion for an annual service agreement for water, and a purchase of some luminaries.  The council will also discuss a pay request for a water main replacement on Springfield Road/Route 29 and a look at an engineering service agreement. 

As always, there will be space for public comments, the city attorney, and Mayoral updates.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more following the conclusion of the event.

A Miller Media Group sportscaster is in the running for a statewide award.

Seth Laurence, Program Director for Miller Media Group radio stations WHOW and WEZC in Clinton, is among 3 finalists in the Illinois Broadcasters Association “Silver Dome Awards” competition for small market radio best sportscaster in Illinois.  Laurence provides listeners on WHOW a daily sports report twice each weekday morning in the WHOW Morning Show, plus a shorter version on sister station WEZC.

Winners of all the I-B-A’s “Silver Dome Awards” will be announced at a banquet in Normal on October 8th.

The FBI Springfield Citizens Academy Alumni Association (CAAA) has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Gold Star Chapter designation for its excellence in leadership, operations, and quality performance. Presented by the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association, the Gold Star recognition honors chapters that demonstrate outstanding commitment to the FBI's community outreach mission.

The accolade highlights the dedication of the CAAA board and its members, all of whom are graduates of the FBI Citizens Academy. "This recognition is a testament to the dedicated volunteers who help promote the FBI mission and support our outreach efforts, leading to safer communities," said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge, Christopher Johnson.

The award was announced at the Association's 17th Annual National Leadership Conference held in Detroit, Michigan. The Springfield CAAA is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works closely with the FBI's Springfield Field Office to deliver educational and community service programs.

To encourage more people to get vaccinated against the flu, HSHS Medical Group Multispecialty Care in Taylorville is hosting drive-thru flu vaccine clinics. The clinics will take place on Saturday, September 28, and Saturday, October 12, from 8:00 a.m. to noon, allowing families to receive their flu shots without leaving their cars. The location is at 1304 W. Burnett Drive.

According to the CDC, getting a flu vaccine each year is the best way to reduce the risk of flu-related illnesses, hospitalizations, and complications. The CDC especially urges children, seniors, and individuals with chronic health conditions to get vaccinated, as they are most vulnerable to severe flu outcomes.

Flu vaccinations not only help prevent the flu but also reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of hospitalizations. Millions of Americans are affected by the flu annually, with tens of thousands of deaths. Increasing vaccination rates could significantly improve public health outcomes.

For more information, visit hshsmedicalgroup.org.

During National Disaster Preparedness Month it is important to start the conversation and protect the people we love by taking the proper steps to get ready and stay safe. Valerie Belusko, Community and Economic Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, says the topic popped up when a conversation with her husband, an agriculture teacher, revealed many students did not know proper fire extinguisher usage or that there was not even an extinguisher in their house at all.

Staying prepared for a disaster is a proactive process that equips families with the necessary items that will keep them alive. Belusko says it all starts with making a plan. Labeling an emergency contact in your phone with ICE (in case of emergency) will help others help you in times of need.

In times of high stress, important items like medication and phone chargers are forgotten, says Belusko.

Disaster preparedness extends to your vehicle as well. Items to have in your car when severe weather is on the way include phone cables for both Apple and Android, blankets, reflectors, and even sand or kitty litter for traction in the snow.

Belusko directs citizens to Ready.gov for detailed descriptions of disaster preparedness for many scenarios.

Valerie Belusko appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Public Library has come alive with programming and events that get people of all ages learning and engaging socially. Erin Crommett, Programming and Outreach Manager at Taylorville Public Library has used her one year in the position to find creative ways to involve home-schooled children, the elderly, and every person in between.

Crommett talks about the success of the preschool labs, homeschool hangouts, and paint nights, all appearing throughout the month at the library.

The summer reading program gathered over 200 participants of all ages. Crommett is happy to announce that a Winter Reading Program is now in the works because of the great response during summer.

September is Library Card Sign-up Month and Crommett describes the Cards for Kids initiative that puts library cards in the hands of those under 18 years old, free of charge, living in a Christian County city with no public library.

Visit www.taylorvillelibrary.org for event dates and registration.

Erin Crommett appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Registration is now open for the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Glow Golf event, held on Saturday, Oct. 19, at Lakeshore Golf Course, located at 1460 E. 1000 N. Road in Taylorville. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. with registration, followed by dinner at 6 p.m. and shotgun start for four-person teams at 7 p.m.

The $70 registration fee for individuals covers dinner, nine holes of glow-in-the-dark golf and cart.

Becky Morrow, Director of Hospitality with TMH, says that the Glow Golf event is a unique event and she looks forward to a fun night and raising money to help the TMH Auxiliary support programs and activities at TMH. 

Deadline to register is Oct. 11. Event sponsorships are also available in amounts from $100 to $1,000. Call Morrow with questions or to register for the event at 217-707-5256.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club this week presented the Christian County YMCA with its yearly donation of one-thousand dollars to support ongoing programs for children and youth at the Y.

The local Kiwanis Club has been a long-time supporter of the Y and its efforts in the Taylorville community.

Kiwanis president Chuck Martin (left) presented the check to Y Executive Director Bruce Blanshan (right), who is also a Kiwanis member and Priority One chair.

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

This Sunday, September 15th is the deadline for applications for funding local non-profit organizations and activities that benefit children and youth in the Taylorville community, to be accepted by the Taylorville Kiwanis Club Foundation.

These grant applications focus on the goals of the Kiwanis Club by assisting other non-profit organizations whose work focuses on children and youth.  

This is the fourth year in a row that the Club is accepting applications to provide grants to other non-profits in the Taylorville that have a similar mission to the Kiwanis Club, to benefit local youngsters.  

Non-profit organizations wishing to apply, can go to taylorvillekiwanis-dot-com to find the application form.   Those given Kiwanis Foundation grants will be notified after the club’s October board meeting.

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

Have a Zoorific Evening at Scovill Zoo this month to raise funds for the reptile exhibit and more. The annual event is part of Scovill Zoo's capital budget-building efforts and the zoo will be open to adults looking for a unique date night and to learn about all the good things happening there.

Heather Perdeu, Director of Scovill Zoo says attendees can expect exclusive animal encounters, dinner, drinks, and an auction.

The alligator exhibit specifically is looking to be upgraded as the cold winter months bring challenges for the gators while trying to maintain a natural environment.

To learn more about the Zoorific Evening and to register visit, decatur-parks.org/scovill-zoo/zoorific-evening.

Heather Perdeu appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County Health Department has added Del Wilber to the team as the new Emergency Response Coordinator. This position coordinates with area police, fire, and emergency management to understand and prepare for threats related to terrorism. Wilbur describes his unique and extensive resume that allows him to work effectively in the role at the health department.

While terrorist attacks are not commonly thought of as happening in middle America, Wilbur cites a tragedy that took place in St. Louis that involved foreign and extremist views leading to the death of an innocent person.

For more information about the Emergency Response Coordinator or the Christian County Health Department call 217-824-4113.

Del Wilbur appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.  

In recognition of his continued commitment to supporting pro-growth economic policies that help businesses thrive and create good-paying jobs, the Illinois Manufacturers Association (IMA) has named State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield) as a “Champion of Manufacturing.”

State Senator McClure says that it is important to support job creators and policies that promote the growth of good-paying jobs.  He says it is an honor to be recognized for his support of pro-growth economic policies. 

The IMA is an organization that represents the manufacturing industry in Illinois. Their “Champion of Manufacturing” award recognizes legislators who voted in support of their industry by analyzing the voting records for several bills. According to the organization’s metrics, Senator McClure voted in support of the industry 81% of the time.

IMA VP of Government Affairs Donovan Griffith says that Senator McClure is a strong supporter of manufacturers, advocating for measures that will strengthen investment and spur economic growth in our communities. 

For more information on the bills evaluated for their 2024 Legislative Report Card,click here. 

CAPTION TO PICTURE:   Rev. Sheryl Van Dyke (right) is inducted as the newest member of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club earlier this month, by Kiwanis president Chuck Martin (left).

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club inducted its newest member during its business meeting earlier this month.

Rev. Sheryl Van Dyke is the Associate Pastor at First United Methodist of Taylorville, was inducted into the club.  Rev. Van Dyke lives in Nokomis with her husband, Jeff, who is a United Methodist pastor, and she has a Master’s of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary.

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

The developer for the new Starbucks along Illinois Route 29 on Taylorville’s northwest side has released further information on their proposed opening date.

Craig Kiser with Ridge Properties in St. Louis, tells Regional Radio News that the current projected Store Opening Date is mid to late June 2025.   He added it’ll be a corporate owned store with a designated store manager hired to oversee day-to-day store operations.

Kiser also shared that Starbucks’ corporate operational team will begin marketing to the public for full-time and part-time employee positions sometime in first quarter 2025.

And, he indicated the new Taylorville location will have drive-up, indoor and outdoor seating.

The new Starbucks location will be the 2nd in Taylorville.   They also have a location inside the Taylorville Kroger supermarket.

The Christian County YMCA has announced their Auction Chairs for the 36th Annual YMCA Auction that will take place on Friday, November 8th, 2024 at the Pillars Event Center.  Brad and Helen Davis will be serving as the Auction Chairs for the 36th Annual YMCA Auction.

Ashlee Vocks, Marketing Specialist with the CCYMCA says that Brad and Helen are excited to be leading the event and they are looking forward to working with the community to make it a memorable evening.  

This year’s theme is “Home ‘Suite’ Home.” Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and a silent auction. Dinner and the live auction will begin at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $75 per person, with table seating limited to 8 guests. Formal attire is recommended.

Fall enrollment at Lake Land College has risen to its highest level since 2019, according to the College’s official 10th-day Enrollment Report as presented to the Lake Land College Board of Trustees at the regular September meeting. 

The total number of students attending Lake Land College for Fall 2024 is up 7% over last year’s count, with 3,960 students enrolled. Additional highlights of the report include a nearly 20% increase in New Students and growth in both Dual Credit and Certificate program enrollment, which increased by 7.97% and 8.30% respectively.

Full-time equivalency, or FTE, was also up by half a percent. FTE is the total number of credit hours divided by 15.

“We’re excited to celebrate this significant enrollment increase,” Lake Land College President Josh Bullock said. “Even with the challenges of the delayed FAFSA and a declining high school population, the College community came together to exceed our shared enrollment goal.”

Individuals across the nation are increasingly recognizing the value of community colleges, where students can prepare for rapid employment with short-term career programs or save money on the path toward a bachelor’s degree with long-term transfer options.

The results of the report show that students continue to view Lake Land College as a smart investment in their futures and a pathway to increased earning potential. Students enjoy the advantage of an education that is accessible to all, with a campus environment that feels like home and the opportunity to jumpstart a career without the weight of student loan debt. Students also enjoy innovative programs, where cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning opportunities equip them with high-demand skills for a modern workforce.

Lake Land College continues to serve students of all ages, skill levels and experience. Students can begin at Lake Land as early as the junior year of high school, with dual credit courses designed to offer a head start on college and career trajectory. Meanwhile, GED programs and English Language Acquisition courses provide opportunities for essential skill development among adult populations, serving the needs of individuals in the area and strengthening the local workforce.

In addition to an increase in new students, Lake Land College enrollment numbers reflect strong retention throughout the student body. A devotion to student support services, including Welcome Week activities, free tutoring at the Student Success Center, helpful alternatives to remedial math and English courses, mental wellness and health services, the Laker Food Pantry and DEIB initiatives empower students to excel throughout their time at Lake Land College.

“We’re pleased to see so many students continue to choose Lake Land College as the starting point of their dream career,” Bullock said. “Our goal is to create accessible opportunities for students to change their lives through the power of education.”

The 10th-day enrollment report is a standard report among the higher education community that captures opening enrollment data each semester. 

The Master Gardner's of Christian County hope to catch the changing colors of fall at their annual tree walk, to be held at Father Dalby's Forest near St. Rita Catholic Church in Kincaid, on Saturday, October 19th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Master Gardeners Gwen Podeschi and Linda Smith stopped by the WTIM Morning Show to talk about how many tree species have already been picked out to explore and Podeschi says there are too many to cover in the two hours of the tree walk.

Smith says there are over 150 trees in the forest, and there is a mixture of native and non-native species.

Attendees will learn not only what kind of three they are looking at, but the characteristics of healthy trees and trees that are on the decline.

Stay tuned to extension.illinois.edu/cjmm/master-gardeners for upcoming tree walk registration information.

Gwen Podeschi and Linda Smith appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

The day Americans pledged never to forget is being memorialized and remembered by Pana Junior High School, with band performances, student speeches, and gatherings around the flagpole, honoring those who fell victim to the September 11ths, 2001 terrorist attacks. The Panther Den Organization, an 8th-grade program, has coordinated the day for their classmates to become educated and bring attention to the tragedy.

Tess Casner, a student at Pana Jr. High says the events on 9/11 and their implications began to make sense by about 6th grade. Casner will lead Pana Jr. High in the pledge of allegiance to begin the remembrance.

Matt Miller, a Pana Jr. High Social Studies Teacher says the group has taken many opportunities In the last eight years to provide services in the community and to honor different groups like during 9/11 remembrance.

Lisa Mayhall, Principal at Pana Jr. High says the curriculum is catered by grade level to help effectively understand the events that took place on September 11th and that as a school, keeping this memory alive is very important.

Learn more information at www.panaschools.com.

Tess Casner, Matt Miller, and Lisa Mayhall appeared as guests on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.  

The Taylorville School Board of Education met for their regular meeting on Tuesday evening. A resignation was announced for Taylorville School Board Member, Jennifer Norris, read by Board Member, Carla Mickey. Immediately following, Superintendent Brandi Bruley announced that Eric Bruder, Taylorville Junior High School Principal, will retire following the 2024-25 school year.

Board Member, Tom Finks, raised concern over the candidate for the Title 1 position while considering personnel under the consent agenda. It was a matter of confidentiality for Finks while talking about the candidate. Finks’ motion eventually carried to enter a closed session after about 5 minutes of discussion. 

Ralph Grimm, Field Services Director for the Illinois Association of School Administrators, gave a presentation for services to provide a strategic plan for the district. The board voted unanimously to meet further with Ralph Grimm, these services will be covered with grant funds.

Superintendent Brandi Bruley gave her superintendent’s report, speaking of recent teacher training, recognizing alumni on social media, and grant writing efforts in the district.

Other items approved at the meeting included:
Threat assessment system implementation manual
Cardiac emergency response plan
Updates to student handbooks
Renew current CD’s with Midland Bank

The next Taylorville School Board meeting is set for Tuesday, October 8th.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from a former F-4 jet pilot and present Illinois State Representative, at its Tuesday meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

State Representative Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville spoke to Kiwanis members about his over 30 years of military service, including the Illinois National Guard and being a former F-4 jet pilot.

Rosenthal, who is also a long-time family farmer, is also a member and Vice-Chair of the Lincoln Land Community College board, and currently its longest-serving member.   He told the Kiwanis Club how an 18-million dollar endowment provided the funding for a new Ag Center on the main campus in Springfield, enabling that program to grow.   

Rosenthal also talked about the many dual credit courses high school students in the district can take and get credit towards college at Lincoln Land.

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.

Small Town Taylorville is welcoming a new Founding Member to the organization in Taylorville's Pillars Event Center, a Taylorville staple that hosts weddings and other gatherings. Jerry and Lori Cocagne, Owners of Pillars Event Center, spoke about the renovations they largely took on themselves eight years ago to transform the Baptist church into a place suitable for celebrations while keeping many of the original architecture and materials.

The Cocagne's also have two Airbnb locations in Taylorville which they say attract all different types of travelers and not just those attending weddings at the Pillars.

Small Town Taylorville Board Chair, Steve Craggs, says the group is proud to welcome the Pillars Event Center and that STT is up to over 50 members.

Learn more about the Pillars on the Facebook page and for more on Small Town Taylorville visit smalltowntaylorville.com.

Jerry and Lori Cocagne along with Steve Craggs appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County CEO class is well underway this school year with a record 28 seniors participating in the A.M. and P.M. sessions of the business entrepreneurial experience. Ben Wamsley and Liz Martin, on the Investor Relations team, explain their day-to-day being in CEO and their current ventures, coordinating their business for the Taylorville Chilifest.

Both Wamsley and Martin went into the CEO year with their sights set on careers that do not involve owning their own businesses. The seniors speak to the value of the experiences they have already had and the ones they will make, that create well-rounded and professional workers, ready for their future endeavors.

Amy Hagen, a Board Member with CC CEO, talks about community members and business owners getting involved as business mentors or donating to create the full entrepreneur experience for these hard-working individuals.

Visit www.christiancountyceo.com/ for more information.

Amy Hagen, Ben Wamsley, and Liz Martin appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville School Board of Education will meet for a regular meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 10th at 6:00 p.m. at the district office at 1100 North Sportsman Drive in Taylorville. New business will see the board's strategic plan presented by Ralph Grimm, approval of the 2024-25 budget, and consideration of the district's cardiac emergency response and threat assessment system plans. 

The board will discuss the NPT special education updates with Lori Wemple and the Illinois Association of School Boards by Brenda Patrick. Overnight trips, previous meetings and the treasurer's report will also be looked at for approval. Superintendent Brandi Bruley will also give her report.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more following the conclusion of tonight's meeting. 

The Union Pacific Railroad 2024 Heartland of America Tour is coming right through Christian County.  The tour kicks off August 28th from Cheyenne, Wyoming, passing through 10 states including Illinois.  The star of the show is the famed Big Boy No 4014 locomotive.  There were 25 “Big Boys” built during WWII but only eight have survived.  No 4014 is the only one of the eight still in operation and remains the world’s largest operating steam locomotive. 

On the afternoon of September 10th, the train will go through Pana before stopping in Nokomis from 3-3:30 PM. 

Twenty-five Big Boys were built exclusively for Union Pacific Railroad, the first of which was delivered in 1941. The locomotives were 132 feet long and weighed 1.2 million pounds. Because of their great length, the frames of the Big Boys were "hinged," or articulated, to allow them to negotiate curves. They had a 4-8-8-4 wheel arrangement, which meant they had four wheels on the leading set of "pilot" wheels which guided the engine, eight drivers, another set of eight drivers, and four wheels following which supported the rear of the locomotive. The massive engines normally operated between Ogden, Utah, and Cheyenne, Wyo.

There are seven Big Boys on public display in various cities around the country. They can be found in St. Louis, Missouri; Dallas, Texas; Omaha, Nebraska; Denver, Colorado; Scranton, Pennsylvania; Green Bay, Wisconsin; and Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Big Boy No. 4014 was delivered to Union Pacific in December 1941. The locomotive was retired in December 1961, having traveled 1,031,205 miles in its 20 years in service. Find out more information by visiting https://www.up.com/heritage/steam/4014/ 

Libraries in Illinois' 108th House District, which serves over 75,000 residents, have received a total of $162,077 in grant funding, Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias announced. The grants aim to enhance access to quality resources and programs for local communities.

In the Regional Radio listening area, Hillsboro will receive $16,827, Litchfield with $12,811, Morrisonville will get $1,741, and Pawnee will receive $3,976.

"Libraries serve as centers for lifelong learning and must be properly supported to provide high-quality services to Illinois residents," Giannoulias said. The funding comes from a combination of Per Capita, Equalization Aid, and newly established technology grants aimed at helping libraries upgrade their technology infrastructure.

State Representative Wayne Rosenthal (R-Morrisonville) highlighted the benefits, saying the grants will enable libraries to expand their collections, update technology, and continue providing essential services to the community. State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield) emphasized the vital role libraries play in providing access to information, technology, and community programming.

These grants are part of an ongoing effort to ensure Illinois libraries can meet their operational needs and continue to serve as essential community hubs for education and enrichment.

The Greater Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce is excited about their upcoming annual golf outing on Friday, September 27th at Eagle Creek Golf Course in Findlay. Regina Agney, President of the GSCC says the festivities will begin with a breakfast at 9:00 a.m. and a 10:00 a.m. shotgun start.

Teams of four will combine to compete and Agney says year after year competition grows along with prizes and sponsorship.

Eagle Creek Golf Course is located at 2341 Eagle Creek Road in Findlay and find all the information needed at shelbyvilleillinois.net/shelbyville-chamber-of-commerce.

Regina Agney appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show live from our studios in downtown Shelbyville.

State Senator Steve McClure has announced his 54th District Tour will begin this week.  There is no cost for this and RSVP’s are not required.  Senator McClure is simply asking constituents to come visit him and talk to him about issues they may be facing.  There will also be refreshments served.  

Senator McClure will be making the following stops: On Tuesday, September 10th, from 12-1 PM at Coz’s in Mount Zion and from 5-6 at Nesty’s Burger Joint in Taylorville. On Wednesday, September 11th, from 12-1 at Neoga District Library and from 5-6 at Joe’s Pizza and Pasta in Effingham.  On September 12th, from 9-10 AM, at Red Apple Family Restaurant in Sullivan and from 5-6 PM at Lakeview Family Restaurant in Shelbyville.  On Thursday, September 19th, from 12-1 PM, at the Corner Cafe in Petersburg, and from 5-6 PM at the Slauterhouse Brewing Company in Auburn.  Finally on Thursday, September 26th, from 12-1 at Eni’s Cafe and Pancakes in Carlinville and from 5-6 at the Red Rooster Inn in Hillsboro. 

For more information, visit State Senator McClure’s website.  State Senator McClure represents the 54th District including parts of Menard, Sangamon, Christian, Effingham, Macoupin, and Montgomery

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that Illinois 185 between Hillsboro and Coffeen will be closed for repairs beginning at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10. The closure is estimated to last until Thursday, Oct. 10.

The closure is necessary to repair the road due to mine subsidence. The Deer Run Mine will fund all repairs on Illinois 185. The contractor hired by the mine to complete the repairs will post and maintain a detour using Vandalia Road (Illinois 127), School Street (Illinois 16), Fillmore Trail (CR 1050 N), and Coffeen Road.

During repairs, only local traffic will be permitted on Illinois 185 between County Road 900 N and Coffeen Road. The proposed road closure is south of the John A. Graham Correctional Center entrance so that traffic will not be restricted from entering the facility. Motorists are encouraged to follow the posted detour and should allow for extra travel time. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changing conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices, and be alert for workers and equipment.

For IDOT District 6 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict6 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

Shelby County Community Services, DUI, and Substance Abuse programs are breaking the stigma around alcoholism and addiction. Natalie Inman, Program Coordinator for SCCS points to smaller communities and the relationships formed in them as places where negative feelings toward a person struggling with addiction are exacerbated.

Inman says relapsing and abusive use of alcohol or drugs is not a result of lacking willpower or moral failure.

Inman explains the thought processes behind a person struggling with addiction.

Knowing the signs of substance abusing behavior is important says Inman, and shares that there should be no shame in receiving the help you need.

Visit www.sccsil.org/services_substance-abuse.html for more information.

Natalie Inman appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown studios in Shelbyville.

Facilities at Lake Shelbyville will begin closing up this weekend after another summer's worth of well-attended camping sites and safe water recreation. Makayla Tinker, Natural Resource Specialist with the US. Army Corps of Engineers, says Opossum Creek and Lone Point Camp Grounds will be closed following this weekend.

This Sunday, September 9th, Lake Shelbyville is holding its long-awaited Paddle Day, for citizens to get out on the water as an end-of-summer celebration.

Tinker takes the opportunity to give an update on the current levels at Lake Shelbyville.

For information on the Lake Shelbyville Paddle Day visit www.backcountryhunters.org/2024_lake_shelbyville_paddle_day, or go to Lake-Shelbyville/Plan-Your-Visit/Lake-Shelbyville-Visitor-Center.

Makayla Tinker appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show live from our studios in Downtown Shelbyville.  

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club once again held a drive-thru donation day on Saturday, in front of our studios at 918 East Park Street in Taylorville. Kiwanis Members Dr. Ron Mizer and Tim Sutton manned the tent and accepted non-perishable foods and monetary donations to benefit the Taylorville Food Pantry.

Live on Groovy 97.3 WRAN, Taylorville Kiwanis Club member Dr. Mizer spoke about the morning of donations and how monetary donations, large or small, are used efficiently at the Taylorville Food Pantry.

The Kiwanis Club involves itself in many initiatives to benefit the youth in Taylorville, and with school starting back up, Dr. Mizer was reminded of the Backpack and Coats for Kids projects that ensure students' basic needs are covered so they are ready to learn. 

The Taylorville Food Pantry, the Taylorville Kiwanis Club, and the Miller Media Group thank all those who contributed to the Drive-Thru Donation Day.
 

State Senator Doris Turner and the Illinois Flag Commission announced on Thursday that residents can now submit designs for a potential new state flag. Senator Turner, who spearheaded Senate Bill 1818 to establish the commission, raises the importance of a modernized flag that reflects the state’s evolving identity. 

Senator Turner says this is a great opportunity, especially for young Illinoisans to learn the history and diversity of the state. 

The Illinois Flag Commission, chaired by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, is tasked with reviewing public submissions and will make recommendations to the General Assembly by April 1, 2025, on whether to keep or replace the current flag. Giannoulias expressed excitement about seeing new designs after more than a century of the current flag’s use.

Public submissions will be accepted until October 18, with 10 finalists selected for a public vote starting January 1, 2024. The public will have six weeks to vote on whether to keep the existing flag or adopt a new design.

Historian, Tandra Taylor, noted that many states are reassessing their flags to better reflect modern identities and values. The Illinois state flag has remained unchanged for over 100 years, and this initiative provides a chance to update the symbol of Illinois.

Residents with questions can contact Senator Turner’s office at 217-782-0228.

September is Food Safety Month and professionals at the University of Illinois Extension are highlighting recipes and resources to build healthy, safe, and delicious meals. Lisa Peterson, Nutrition and Wellness Educator for the U of I Extension will hold a "Cooking Under Pressure" class that teaches attendees their way around a pressure cooker, the health benefits of using one, and the recipes for citizens to go home with.

This pressure cooking class will appear at Pana Community Hospital's LiveWell Fitness Center on Thursday, September 12th from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Peterson notes that pressure cookers are advantageous because the cooking process traps flavor in, meaning less will need to be added to the pot for a good taste.

Improper use of a pressure cooker can be dangerous, a fact that Peterson attributes to low usage among citizens. Peterson keys in on chicken as a common food item that can be mishandled, leading to food-borne illnesses.

Peterson says there will be taste testing and socializing to learn more about your pressure cooker and ways you can make the next staple family dinner.

This event is free and you can find all the information needed at extension.illinois.edu/events/2024-09-12-cooking-under-pressure.

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

A recent decision at a Taylorville City Council meeting will put updates at Lake Taylorville on the back burner as Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry is concerned over needs, wants, and overall development in the community. The OSLAD grant was for $610,000 to be matched at 50% by the City of Taylorville. If the motion had passed, $305,000 would have been used for pickleball courts, kayak rentals, fishing piers, and other upkeep at Lake Taylorville.

Mayor Barry says this is the first time he has vetoed a motion in seven years and does not take such actions lightly. It was the possibility of needing that large sum of money in the future that caused Mayor Barry to make the decision.

Taylorville will lose the 1% grocery tax as of January 1st, 2026, another contributing factor that kept the mayor from supporting the motion. Mayor Barry says he understands and sees the rising popularity of pickleball but projects like road replacement and pavement, curbs, and infrastructure come first.

For more information visit taylorville.net.

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

The Taylorville Public Schools Foundation is ramping back up for another year of gathering funds to provide teachers and the school district with the extra money needed for a successful year of educational development. Classroom budgets for teachers are minimal and classroom aids are often not accounted for in the district budget. To fill the gaps where these educators need it, the Taylorville Public Schools Foundation works year-round to build initiatives that accomplish those goals.

Current fundraisers TPSF holds are VIP parking at Taylorville football games and finding support for mini-grants. Jarred Rahar, Board Chairman, explains the history and the current status of the group.

TPSF Board Treasure, Amy Hagen, says running the numbers in previous years of fundraising found that among the over 2,000 students within Taylorville School District, $14.21 per student was gathered.

The grant funding efforts extend beyond the teachers as Hagen describes the support given to the libraries, nurses, and even district-wide grants.

The TPSF wants the community to mark their calendars for their annual banquet to be held on Saturday, March 8th, with entertainment and more currently being lined up.

Learn more at www.tcusd3.org/page/tpsf.

Amy Hagen and Jarred Rahar appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

Two Taylorville Memorial Hospital registered nurses have been promoted to manager roles.  Nicole Heimsness and Becky McCauley were both promoted with Heimsness becoming the manager of Acute Care in June and McCauley named the manager of the Emergency Department in July.  

Heimsness is a Taylorville native and graduated with honors from Lincoln Land Community College before earning a bachelor of science in nursing degree with honors from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.  Prior to joining TMH, Heimsness worked as a charge nurse, assistant manager, and house supervisor at other healthcare organizations. 

Heimness and her husband, live in Taylorville and have five children. 

McCauley has spent more than 20 years at TMH, serving in a variety of areas and earning multiple awards for nursing excellence, including two Daisy awards and TMH Colleague of the Year.  A Taylorville native, and graduate of Lincoln Land Community College, McCauley is working towards a bachelor of science in nursing degree from Western Governor’s University.

McCauley currently lives in Taylorville with her husband, who also works as a nurse at TMH.  They have six children, one grandchild, and one grandchild on the way. 

Eli Heicher, TMH chief nursing officer, says that TMH is focused on developing the skills of future nursing leaders like Heimsness and McCauley saying that the assumption is that because nurses are good at providing patient care, like starting IVs, they will be great managers, but nurses must also possess very different traits and qualities needed to be successful.  

Regional Radio News salutes Heimsness and McCauley. 

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM) will honor the legacy of celebrated sculptor Richard Hunt with a special exhibition titled "Freedom in Form: Richard Hunt," opening on October 25 and running until April 20, 2025. Hunt, a lifelong Chicago resident, created more public sculptures than any other American artist, with works displayed in locations from Champaign and Peoria to Washington, D.C., and New York. His abstract art powerfully captured the struggles and hopes of African Americans seeking equality.

This exhibition will be the first major showcase of Hunt's work since his passing last year. It will feature a range of his creations, from large-scale sculptures represented by maquettes to smaller pieces that offer insight into his creative process. Additionally, tools from Hunt's studio and books from his library will be on display.

One highlight of the exhibition is the presentation of two significant works that bookend Hunt's career. The first is his 1956 sculpture "Hero's Head," inspired by the tragic death of Emmett Till. The second is a maquette of a memorial to Till that Hunt was working on at the time of his death.

Christina Shutt, the executive director of ALPLM, expressed her admiration for Hunt's visionary artistry, which was deeply influenced by the African American experience and its connections to the history of President Lincoln. 

For more information, visit www.PresidentLincoln.illinois.gov, or follow the ALPLM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

September is Hunger Action Month, a time when community members can recognize and support their local food pantries who continuously provide food for people in need. The Feeding America organization has a September calendar of events to get closer and support local food pantries. Illinois has eight food banks that supply some 200 food pantries. There are 60,000 food pantries in the United States, to put that into perspective the McDonald's Corporation says they have 14,300 locations across the U.S.

Amy Hagen Co-Coordinator with the Taylorville Food Pantry says September 10th, is Hunger Action Day, a good time to reach out to someone you know who donates their items or time to benefit people in need.

Volunteers are always welcome at the Taylorville Food Pantry, Hagen says citizens do not need any specific skills to be helpful. Local people can simply step up to help by showing up to the TFP on a donation day.

TFP has been undergoing a change in their patron documenting system, switching each household over to the new system one at a time. Hagen asks for patience during this process and says the new system looks to help better understand the needs of the area by keying in on demographic information.

Days of service at the Taylorville Food Pantry are Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The TFP is located at 1429 East Main Cross Street in Taylorville.

Amy Hagen appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Shelbyville will hold the 12th Annual Youth Firearm Deer Hunt on October 12 and 13, 2024. To apply for the hunt, youth applicants must be less than 18 years old on October 12, 2024 and be accompanied by an adult. Applications must be received by 8:00 a.m. on September 23, 2024. Applications can be picked up at the Lake Shelbyville Project Office Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or online by visiting this story. 

On September 24, 2024, a total of ten participants will be publicly drawn from the pool of applicants at 9:00 a.m. at the Lake Shelbyville Project Office. Successful applicants will be notified by phone shortly after the drawing to let them know if their name was drawn to participate in the hunt. Each of the ten participants will hunt in closed recreation areas with assistance from USACE personnel and volunteers. For further information, or if you would like to volunteer to help with this event please contact Park Ranger Tanner Coleman at (217) 774-3951 ext. 7006.

A letter that was sent to many homes in Taylorville, has residents puzzled about what the next steps are. The letter involves Constellation and Ameren, two energy companies, and how you as the consumer receive your energy/power. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry says the best way to explain this letter is to back up to a time even before he was in office concerning aggregation. 

Constellation is currently the lowest price energy deliverer but you will still get your bill from Ameren. 

Prices will change in January—this is only good for about four months.  Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry says that he expects things to change based on the election.

If you do want to opt out you can do so by clicking here.

WTIM’s 107-point-9 FM signal in the Pana-Nokomis area is back on the air.

The signal experienced internet problems at its tower site near Pana late last week, causing the station to go off the air.

Station engineer John Masters worked on the problem yesterday and got WTIM’s 107-point-9 FM signal that serves the communities of Pana, Nokomis, and Ramsey, back on the air just before noon.

None of WTIM’s other on-air signals were affected by the Pana signal outage.

The City of Pana is winding down after the week-long Pana Tri-County Fair, Monday's Labor Day Parade, and July's Popcorn Festival, events that Pana counts on to bring travelers and commerce into town. Pana City Clerk, Kim Toberman, was happy to see the increased traffic in Pana and the hard efforts of all the people behind the scenes paying off as local and traveling citizens enjoyed their unofficial end-of-summer celebration.

Toberman first speaks of the Pana Street Crews who work tirelessly to prepare not only the Pana Tri-County Fairgrounds but also the area parks, streets, and parking lots for an inviting entrance.

With an uptick in population, busy businesses, and the chaotic nature of the fair week, from the good to the bad to the ugly, Toberman says there was not much "ugly" to mention.

Toberman spoke on new vendors at this year's fair and the local shopping that is shown off yearly.

Learn more at www.cityofpana.org.

Kim Toberman appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.

The Christian County Health Department is organizing two drive-thru flu vaccination clinics this September. The first clinic will take place at the Pana Fire Department on Monday, September 16, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., located at 400 East 1st Street, Pana, Illinois. The second clinic is scheduled for Monday, September 23, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Christian County Fairgrounds, 1716 W Spresser Street, Taylorville, Illinois.

Public Health Nurses will be on-site to administer flu vaccines to all interested residents. Attendees are advised to bring their insurance cards, and there is no need to leave the car, as the clinic is entirely drive-thru.

Dr. Chad Anderson, Christian County's Public Health Administrator, explains the importance of the flu vaccine, noting that it provides protection against the most common flu strains and helps reduce the risk of severe illness and flu-related hospitalizations.

The Christian County Health Department is collaborating with the Pana Fire & EMS Department and the Christian County Fair Board for these clinics. Those unable to attend can schedule a flu vaccine appointment at the Health Department’s office by calling 217-824-4113.

Taylorville City Council met on Tuesday evening due to the Labor Day Holiday.  All aldermen were present except for Megan Bryant. The main focus during the meeting was on an OSLAD grant and whether or not the city should pay half of the requested $610,000. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry was opposed to the OSLAD grant due to the concern of the price and over whether or not the things that were mentioned in the grant were a need or a want. Aldermen Randy Mitchelson echoed the sentiment saying he was very concerned over the price. 

Aldermen discussed if there was a way to pick and choose from the projects what was going to get done and what didn't.  Things that were discussed were pickleball courts, a retaining wall, a fishing pier, a picnic area, and some other items to clean up and spruce up Lake Taylorville. After much discussion, the council tried to come up with an amended motion. 

After much discussion, Aldermen Kathy Driskell decided to keep her original motion.  The motion passed 4-3 with Aldermen Randy Mitchelson, Jim Olive, and Steve Dorchinecz voting "No." However, Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry vetoed the motion so the OSLAD grant was denied at this time. 

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry praised the Taylorville JFL team for their handling of a special situation on Saturday. 

Other motions that were approved on Tuesday evening included:

–a motion for a 4-way stop sign at the intersection of East Lakeshore Drive and Sunset Drive

–a motion for the purchase of a Hydraulic Thumb not to exceed $5,000

–a motion to recommend the approval of lining for a sewer main in the alley behind the United Methodist Church on East Market Street

–a special events permit for the Faith Bible Christian Academy for their sports booster fundraiser on West Main Cross and Webster Streets on October 11th and October 12th

–the Veterans Parking Lot for work from Dunn's Company for $168,606.75

–BDD Agreements for 1791 Morrison Drive (Christian County Historical Society), 1104 West Spresser Street (Robert and Rebecca Steiner), 110 West Park Street (Angelo's), and 100/102 S. Main Street (Dustin Clark)

The next Taylorville City Council meeting is set for September 16th.

The Taylorville DMV changes are complete as the “One-Stop-Shop” conversion is complete.  The DMV reopened on Friday following extensive renovations to allow customers to access services all in one place.  As part of the Secretary of State’s ongoing modernization efforts, the new DMV experience will save customers considerable time and steps by offering both vehicle and driver services at a single service center.  

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias says that his top priority was to provide exceptional customer service and reduce lines and wait times.  The Taylorville facility was among the first to get the makeover and Giannoulias says the modern feel will also employ new technology to create efficiencies. 

State Senator Steve McClure says that the DMV redesign offers the Taylorville area quick and convenient access to essential DMV services.  Driver services and vehicle services employees are now cross-trained to provide both sets of services.  At a single counter, customers will be able to obtain many different services including applying for a REAL ID or a new driver’s license or state ID card, renewing a driver’s license, state ID, or temporary visitor driver’s license, registering or renew their vehicle registration and obtain vehicle stickers, order a new license plate, and join the Illinois Organ and Tissue Donor Registry. 

To contact the Taylorville DMV, call (217) 824-3006. 

Taylorville City Council is set to meet this evening at the Taylorville municipal building at 7 PM.  After the omnibus voting, the council will review ordinance business development district agreements for 1791 Morrison Drive, 1104 West Spresser Street, 110 West Park Street, and 100/102 South Main Street. There is a motion to approve a special events permit for the Sports Booster Fundraiser for Faith Bible Christian Academy on October 11th and 12th.  The council will discuss a motion to approve the OSLAD Phase Two Grant application project budget for $610,000 and a motion to approve/accept the low bid of $168,606.75 from Dunn Company for the Veteran’s Parking Lot.  

Under committee reports, the council will look at a motion to add a 4-way stop at the intersection of East Lakeshore Drive and Sunset Drive, purchase a hydraulic thumb, and accept a proposal from Hoerr Construction for a sewer main in the alley behind the United Methodist Church.  

The Council will hear from the City Attorney and Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more following the event's conclusion.

Multiple people were arrested on Friday night in Taylorville following a search warrant on the 900 block of West Market.  48-year-old Rebecca Champley, 64-year-old Lori Strecknor, 43-year-old Lorna Smith, and 45-year-old Megan Lynn were all arrested on various charges involving methamphetamine and fentanyl. Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler praised the commitment of the CAT Team, the work of State’s Attorney John McWard, and the many officers who worked hard to conduct this sweep.  

–Rebecca Champley, 48: Possession of meth, intent to deliver, unlawful use of a building

–Lorna Smith, 43: possession of meth

–Lori Strecknor, 64: possession of meth 5-15 grams, with intent traffic stop

–Megan Lynn, 45 possession of meth, traffic stop 

All four will appear in Christian County Court on Tuesday.

Iced Cafe in Shelbyville is a small-town bakery and cafe that prides itself on delivering freshly baked treats daily. Located at 118 East Main Street in Shelbyville, Owners Heidi Denning and John Fitzpatrick took over the business in July 2024, and helped celebrate 12 years in Shelbyville this year.

Heidi Denning says that while adding new items to the menu in the form of drinks, baked treats, and meals, all the staples loved by the community remain on the menu.

Aside from their daily menu, weekly specials are featured at Iced Cafe, and the group will also cater for events and make custom cakes and sweets.

Find Iced Cafe in Shelbyville on their Facebook Page for more information.

Heidi Denning appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show live from our downtown studios in Shelbyville.